Thursday August 27, 2020

As of Wednesday New Mexico, has 24732 cases of the corona virus, 71 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 755 deaths. 734220 people have been tested. 12193 people have recovered. Los Alamos has had 24 cases. 15 of those people have recovered. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy. For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks.
The state's operative emergency public health order expires Friday, Aug. 28. Effective Saturday, Aug. 29, the following changes, among others, will be implemented:
Houses of worship may operate at 40 percent of maximum occupancy of any enclosed building, an increase from 25 percent, in accordance with COVID-Safe Practices. Houses of worship may, as before, conduct services outdoors or provide services through audiovisual means.
Food and drink establishments (including restaurants, breweries, wineries, distillers, cafes, coffee shops or other similar establishments) may provide indoor dining service at 25 percent of maximum occupancy, in accordance with COVID-Safe Practices.
Food and drink establishments may continue to provide outdoor dining options, carryout and delivery services, in accordance with COVID-Safe Practices. Tables - inside or outside - must be spaced at least six feet apart, and no more than six patrons are permitted at a single table.

Los Alamos High School junior, Nina Nzekwe, won first place for Week 8 of the New York Times Summer Reading Contest.
Each week in the summer, thousands of students respond to current event op-ed articles released by the New York Times as part of their Summer Reading Contest.
Nina wrote her essay in response to an op-ed by Jennifer Weiner titled "Why America Needs a Royal Family." In the original article, Jennifer suggests that America is in need of a separately elected "royal family" to perform ceremonial tasks while "real" politicians govern and get the work done. Nina disagrees, saying that a "mascot" is not what America needs and proffers her own suggestion: "to separate the ribbon-cutting and the baby-kissing from politics and remove them entirely."
This is the third year that LAHS teachers Christine Engelbrecht and Margo Batha have used the New York Times Summer Reading Contest as part of their AP Language and Composition summer assignment.

Wednesday August 26, 2020

As of Tuesday New Mexico, has 24535 cases of the corona virus, 64 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 750 deaths. 728627 people have been tested. 11909 people have recovered. Los Alamos has had 24 cases. 15 of those people have recovered. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy. For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks.

The Los Alamos Monitor that has served Los Alamos for nearly six decades will publish its last edition on Sunday.
The Los Alamos Monitor announced on its webpage that the decision was shared with staff Friday by officials with Landmark Community Newspapers. The company has owned the paper since 1979.
Landmark President Mike Abernathy said the staff has worked hard to produce a quality newspaper but that their efforts weren't enough to overcome economic challenges that have worsened in the face of the coronavirus pandemic.
The newspaper's first edition was published on March 7, 1963, using typewriters and typesetters in rented offices above a jewelry store. The weekly eventually evolved into a daily and moved to another location and was equipped with a press.
Officials said Monitor staff will continue to print a sister newspaper, The Las Vegas Optic, until a buyer is found for the newspaper building in Los Alamos.

Tuesday August 25, 2020

As of Monday New Mexico, has 24469 cases of the corona virus, 68 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 747 deaths. 723801 people have been tested. 11668 people have recovered. Los Alamos has had 24 cases. 15 of those people have recovered. 3745 in the county have been tested. That makes .6% (point six percent) of those tested have had Covid-19. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy. For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks.

- The Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF) is implementing Stage 1 fire restrictions to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfire during consistent drought conditions, historically low fuel moisture levels and severe fire weather conditions. The Stage 1 restrictions will go into effect forest-wide at 6 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2020.
Under Stage 1 restrictions, fires, campfires, charcoal grills, and coal and wood stoves are allowed only in developed campsites or picnic areas where agency-built fire rings or grills are provided for use. Campfires are prohibited at all dispersed camping sites.
Stoves, lanterns and heaters fueled by propane or other liquified petroleum fuels may be used if they meet manufacturer's safety specifications and have on/off switches. Propane devices require an area at least 3 feet in diameter that has been cleared of flammable materials.
Smoking is allowed only in enclosed vehicles or buildings, at developed recreation sites or while standing in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that has been cleared of all flammable material. Fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices are always prohibited on national forests.
Forest visitors are asked to use extreme caution when fire restrictions are in place. Violations are punishable as a Class B misdemeanor by a fine of not more than $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations and/or by imprisonment for not more than six months. The fire restrictions are in place until Dec. 31, 2020, unless rescinded earlier.

Monday August 24, 2020

As of Sunday New Mexico, has 24396 cases of the corona virus, 64 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 745 deaths. 719300 people have been tested. 11539 people have recovered. Los Alamos has had 24 cases. 14 of those people have recovered. 3724 in the county have been tested. That makes .6% (point six percent) of those tested have had Covid-19. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy. For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks.

Customer Care Center Extends Window Hours Open Starting on Monday
While citizens can conduct most Los Alamos County business with the Customer Care Center via phone or email from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the work week, the windows in the Municipal Lobby for in-person transactions will now be open for six hours. Starting Monday, August 24, the Customer Care representatives will open two of the three windows between the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Friday Sugust 21, 2020

As of Thursday New Mexico, has 23951 cases of the corona virus, 74 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 734 deaths. 694824 people have been tested. 11145 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 24 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

Los Alamos, NM - TLC Plumbing and Utility will begin construction activities on August 24, 2020 on the Barranca Mesa 3 Improvements Project.
The project consists of pavement preservation improvements; which include asphalt removal (milling) and new surface paving, along with the addition of ADA curb ramps, and concrete valley gutters on the following streets: Camino Encantado, Turquoise, Kachina, Obsidian, Tecolote, and Escondido.
Work hours are Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Residents are asked to use caution in the work zone.
Services such as mail delivery, trash and recycling collection and emergency services will be maintained. Please contact the Public Works should you have special access needs.

Thursday August 20, 2020

As of Wednesday New Mexico has 23749 cases of the corona virus, 94 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 729 deaths. 688,495 people have been tested. 10976 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 24 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

Medio Fire Update
Size: 550 acres Containment: 0%
Start date: Aug. 17, 2020 Cause: Unknown
Location: approximately 1.5 miles north of the Village of Rio en Medio, 2 miles east/southeast of Nambe Reservoir and 5 miles north/northwest of the Santa Fe Ski Basin.
Fuels: Dry mixed conifer tapering to ponderosa pine at lower elevations. Heavy fuels in steep, rugged terrain add complexity to efforts to control the Medio Fire.
Fire behavior: Dry continuous fuels are helping push the fire southward toward the Rio en Medio drainage. Fire behavior has ranged from moderate to extreme, driven by terrain and winds. The fire is likely to continue pushing eastward toward the Pecos Wilderness and the burn scar from the 2011 Pacheco Fire
Due to the complexity of the Medio Fire and the values at risk, fire managers today ordered a Type 2 Incident Management Team which is expected to in-brief tomorrow afternoon and take command of the fire early Friday.
SFNF fire managers continue to coordinate with cooperators and partners to develop a containment strategy for the Medio Fire. Air attack dropped water and retardant on the fire today to help firefighters establish anchor points and work on building the fire line.
Resources on scene: A Type 3 Incident Commander and about 70 personnel are assigned to the Medio Fire. Resources on scene include the Mt. Taylor Hotshots, 4 engines, a Type 3 helicopter and a fixed-wing aircraft. A second hotshot crew, the Silver City Hotshots, arrived today.
The Medio Fire is currently not threatening any structures, and there are no evacuations in place.
Smoke from the Medio Fire is likely to be visible from Santa Fe and surrounding communities as well as along the I-25 and US 285 corridors
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The University of New Mexico-Los Alamos (UNM-LA) hosted students on campus this week, for the first time since the COVID pandemic led to all-remote instruction last March. This fall, 81% of the classes at UNM-LA are meeting fully online; with the remainder meeting as hybrid classes or fully face to face.
UNM-LA staff members were stationed on campus at various locations on campus to welcome students, model positive behaviors of mask wearing and social distancing, explain the newly designated entrance and exit doors, and answer questions or provide directions as needed.
The staff at UNM-LA have worked diligently to create a COVID-safe environment for students meeting on campus. Classes are meeting in rooms large enough to keep all students at least six feet apart, and all classrooms are disinfected after each class meets. Buildings are only open when classes meet, to limit foot traffic and track all potential contact. Additionally, all doors are marked for one way use, and hallways are marked with arrows for one way traffic as much as possible.
UNM-LA has face masks available to all students and employees who may need one, many of which were made possible by a donation from Barbara Yarnell, a recently retired faculty member. Additionally, thanks to a donation of touchless thermometers by the Los Alamos Department of Commerce & Development Corporation, students who enter certain spaces, such as the library, will have a temperature check. All students are asked to self-screen for COVID symptoms through an automated UNM system prior to entering campus.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, UNM-LA faculty and staff have had regular contact via Zoom, sharing information about state and University requirements for safety and preparing options for online alternatives should the state require more stringent distancing in the future.
More information about UNM-LA is available at losalamos.unm.edu.

Wednesday August 19, 2020

 As of Tuesday New Mexico has 23579 cases of the corona virus, 111 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 723 deaths. 683,053 people have been tested. 10802 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 23 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

On a happy and congratulatory note, our own sportscaster Gene Mortensen won the 2019 NMBA award for small market sports play by play for his broadcast of Toppers Basketball vs Taos. We will really miss his sports broadcasts. Thank you for your years of excellent sports coverage of our high school sports.

Tuesday August 18, 2020

 As of Monday New Mexico has 23500 cases of the corona virus, 119 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 718 deaths. 677,150 people have been tested. 10602 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 24 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

The Los Alamos County Parks Division is working towards updating the playground equipment at Rover Park located at 317 Rover Blvd., White Rock. Staff have reached a point in the process where public input is requested.
Four playground designs were submitted for the project with two color schemes, neutral and    vivid. The Los Alamos County Parks Division invites the public to vote August 17th - 31st, 2020 on these two choices. Print outs of the proposed designs are posted at Rover Park for viewing. If you are unable to visit Rover Park and look at the designs, Los Alamos County has posted the
images of the proposed designs, as well as the voting link, on the Community Services, Parks and Recreation Page.

Monday August 17, 2020

 As of Sunday New Mexico has 23408 cases of the corona virus, 109 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 714 deaths. 670,573 people have been tested. 10481 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 24 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

Downtown Master Plan: Attend one of these Virtual Visioning Workshops on August 19 or 20
The workshop for White Rock residents will be August 19 and the one for Los Alamos will be August 20. Both will be held using GoToMeeting and start at 5:30. These will be two different meetings for the different downtown areas, not the same meeting repeated twice.
The Virtual Visioning Workshops will help articulate a vision for the downtown areas and prioritize downtown goals. During this workshop the community will discuss the various components that make a downtown successful: great public spaces, thriving businesses, contemporary housing and walkable districts. From this discussion the community will identify and prioritize a vision and associated goals to inform the direction of the master plan.
The 'Downtown Master Plans and Development Code Update' is a two-year project initiated by Los Alamos County, starting in June 2020. The project encompasses two phases: Phase 1 will create Downtown Master Plans for both the Los Alamos and White Rock downtown areas; Phase 2 will update the County's Chapter 16 Development Code, the County's zoning. Both phases recognize the unique challenges that Los Alamos County faces. The project team will develop strategies to address the economic and population growth projected for the County.
Residents need to pre-register for the meeting of their choice. to go to the website https://losalamosconnect.org/ for this project to learn more, or, to get the GoToMeeting webinar link and register

Friday August 14, 2020

 As of Thursday New Mexico has 22987 cases of the corona virus, 128 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 697 deaths. 650,491 people have been tested. 9744 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 24 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

The University of New Mexico-Los Alamos (UNM-LA) will be offering a variety of class modalities for Fall semester 2020, which begins on August 17. Due to COVID-19, the majority of classes will be online, with a few classes that require hands-on instruction offered as face to face or through a hybrid approach.
UNM-LA faculty are well-prepared to teach online. To date, 90% of the continuing faculty have completed or are in the process of completing formal training for teaching online. Training is offered by the UNM Center for Teaching Excellence and by Quality Matters (QM), an international nonprofit recognized as a leader in quality assurance for online education. As a member of QM, UNM-LA integrates QM course design standards in their online course standards.
UNM-LA has offered online courses for over 10 years, and to ensure course quality, has created a set of standards and guidelines for all online courses. The guidelines are based upon the University of New Mexico's online course standards, evidence-based practices for teaching and learning, federal compliance requirements for online courses, and national standards for quality online course delivery.
In addition to providing extensive faculty support, UNM-LA provides broad support to students who take classes online. A tutor who is dedicated to supporting students who need help with technology, websites, or any processes required for online learning is available through the Academic Support Center (ASC). The ASC also offers subject-matter tutors in Math, English, and Science. All tutors are available to work remotely with students using Zoom. For students who may not have access to a computer, campus IT has laptops available for loan.

Thursday August 13, 2020

 As of Wednesday New Mexico has 22816 cases of the corona virus, 119 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 695 deaths.644,823 people have been tested. 9744 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 24 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

The deadline to submit a letter of interest for the Los Alamos School Board vacancy left by the departure of Julia Baker has been extended to August 20.
The vacant seat represents District 4, which includes Barranca Mesa Elementary School and Los Alamos Middle School. The term will begin September 1 and run through December 31, 2021.
Applicants must be a registered voter, over 18 years of age, and reside in District 4. Interested candidates should submit a letter of interest and a resume to the board secretary, Debra Larson, at d.larson@laschools.net.
For questions or more information, contact Mrs. Larson at 663-2230.

Wednesday August 12, 2020

 As of Tuesday New Mexico has 22643 cases of the corona virus, 134 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 693 deaths.640,337 people have been tested. 9612 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 23 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

KRSN AM 1490 and FM 107.1 will be going dark after Sunday August 30. David and Gillian Sutton have proudly owned and operated the community radio station for the last 15 years, broadcasting local news, weather, sports and a variety of programming for your enjoyment. David and Gillian both grew up in Los Alamos listening to KRSN, and when the station was in bankruptcy and for sale, they felt it was important to keep the community station broadcasting. Gillian had worked at KRSN when she was in high school, and with David's skills as an engineer, they took a leap of faith and embarked on a career as radio broadcasters. KRSN broadcasted high school sports, and relatives of local athletes tuned in from all around the country. With the Voice of the Hill Toppers Gene Mortenson and crews called football, soccer, basketball, volleyball and baseball, and Rick Pickard joined David announcing ice hockey, the recordings of the games created valuable memories for Topper families. That's approximately 150 Topper football games, 500 basketball games, 300 baseball and softball games, 150 hockey games and a few hundred more volleyball, and soccer games.

In 2010, Nancy Coombs joined David as a co-host of the Morning Show, which featured local news, off the wall stories in Dave's World, Earth Date and Science in the Sea, and interviews. Coombs says, I love interviewing people, letting them talk about things they are passionate about. It is a fantastic way to start the day. That is about 7,500 interviews, including Senators, congressman, governors, County Councilors, County Managers, County personnel, doctors, lawyers, artists, authors, heroes, teenagers and children.

KRSN has won numerous broadcasting awards including Radio Station of the Year, National Crystal Radio Award finalist, Broadcaster of the Year and New Mexico Presswomen's awards. Our show hosts have won awards of excellence, and our sportscaster Mr. Gene Mortenson is in the New Mexico Broadcasters Hall of Fame. KRSN mentored DJ's into their careers in broadcasting.

Gillian reflects, It has been an honor to run the community radio station and we will miss it.

David added We've had a lot fun and hope you enjoyed our shows.

With the cancellation of high school sports, events, the closure of small businesses and the struggles of those remaining, KRSN can no longer raise the advertising revenues it takes to run your free to you community radio station. We appreciate all our loyal listeners over the years, as we say farewell. We are negotiating with other parties to purchase the station in hopes it remains a community radio station.

We are still fulfilling all FCC and FAA requirements in maintaining all of KRSN's assets.

Tuesday August 11, 2020

 As of Monday New Mexico has 22444 cases of the corona virus, 127 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 690 deaths. 632997 people have been tested. 9428 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 23 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

To help support our local businesses that have all been affected by the pandemic, shop local this summer and receive Chamber Checks! Shop, Snap, Submit and Shop Again! Here's how to participate and support your local businesses:
 Shop at 5 different Los Alamos/White Rock businesses between July 13 to September 7, spending a minimum of $10 at each business. As an incentive to shop at DP Road businesses during the road construction, a receipt from any business located there will count as 2 receipts!
 Snap a legible photo of all 5 receipts, with date and amount visible, and submit your photo by email to ufemia@losalamos.org, including your name and address. Feel free to black out your purchases for privacy.
 Once your receipts have been verified, the Los Alamos Chamber of Commerce will mail you a $10 Chamber Check, redeemable at dozens of local participating Chamber member businesses.
Note: All small businesses in Los Alamos County, with appropriate receipt, are eligible for this promotion. However, Chamber Checks are only redeemable at participating Chamber member businesses. A list of redeemable locations will be included when you receive your $10 Chamber Check. There is a 6-month expiration period on the Chamber Check, but we encourage spending sooner in order to help our local businesses in need during this pandemic. This promotion is valid until Chamber Check promotional account has been expended, or on September 7, whichever comes first.

Monday August 10, 2020

 As of Sunday New Mexico has 22315 cases of the corona virus, 121 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 685 deaths. 627627 people have been tested. 9319 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 22 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

Starting Monday, August 10, 2020, long-term care facilities, not experiencing a new positive or outbreak, located within the 21 counties with a COVID-positivity rate below 5% which includes Los Alamos will be able to provide additional visitation options for their residents and their loved ones. Eligibility criteria for the Counties as well as the guidelines will be posted at cv.nmhealth.org on Monday. During this initial phase, at the end of every month, based on positivity rate, the next month's visitation-eligible Counties will be posted.
The new guidelines will allow once a month, by appointment, open-window visits or visits using a plexiglass barrier, between a single family member and a COVID-negative resident. During the visit, all participants will need to wear masks -- unless the resident has a medical condition that prohibits them from wearing a mask, in which case they will need to be 12ft away. Staff at the facilities will need to be present if the resident is unable to maintain a safe social distance. Facilities will also be able to create outdoor visitation stations.

Friday August 7 2020

As of Thursday New Mexico has 21773 cases of the corona virus, 138 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 669 deaths. 604382 people have been tested. 8,950 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 20 positive tests. Of those 10 have recovered. There have been 2954 tests. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

The statewide nonprofit organization New Mexico First is inviting nominations and self-nominations for a Redistricting Task Force. The goal of the task force is to develop recommendations to present to the N.M. Legislature on redistricting rules and processes.
New Mexico First is committed to cross-partisan dialogue, consensus-building, and aligned action on policy issues that impact the state. Therefore, the Redistricting Task Force will include voters, researchers, lawmakers, tribal members, and advocates who are knowledgeable about redistricting or voter rights. The task force will include people from different political parties and will be racially, ethnically, and geographically diverse, including members from the sovereign Pueblos and Tribes across New Mexico.
The Redistricting Task Force will meet remotely every two weeks beginning September 21, 2020, from 3-5 pm, and it aims to complete discussion, deliberation, and drafting of recommendations by late November. Interested New Mexicans can go to https://tinyurl.com/nm-redistricting to self-nominate or to nominate someone. Funding for the task force was provided through a grant from the Thornburg Foundation.

Thursday August 6, 2020

 As of Wednesday New Mexico has 21566 cases of the corona virus, 138 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 667 deaths. 597408 people have been tested. 8,828 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 20 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.
The seven-day rolling average of daily new COVID-19 cases in New Mexico has declined over the past two weeks, going from 275 new cases per day on July 21 to 233 new cases per day on Aug. 4, according to an analysis by The Associated Press of data collected by Johns Hopkins University Center for Systems Science and Engineering. Comparing seven-day averages of new cases smooths out anomalies in the data, including delays in test results.
For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.
State finance officials started accepting applications Wednesday for low-interest loans that are designed to help small businesses endure the financial stress of the coronavirus pandemic.
Legislation approved in June sets aside up to $400 million in state trust funds for loans to individual businesses of up to $75,000 each.
Eligibility is limited to businesses with less than $5 million in annual revenue. Applicants also must show a 30% decline in monthly revenue in April and May versus a year ago.

Wednesday August 5, 2020

 As of Tuesday New Mexico has 21340 cases of the corona virus, 133 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 658 deaths. 590825 people have been tested. 8,685 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 20 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.
For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough.
But for some people who contract the virus, especially those who are older or have underlying health conditions, it can cause more severe illness and death.
The vast majority of people who are diagnosed with COVID-19 recover.

The Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF) issued a closure order for the Spence Hot Springs Trail #130 on the Jemez Ranger District to protect public health and safety while a crew works on significant trail improvements.
The closure order will be in effect from 6 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, until noon Sunday, Aug. 16, unless it is rescinded earlier.
The restricted area includes the Spence Hot Springs Trailhead parking area and a 300-foot buffer on both sides of the half-mile section of the trail from the trailhead to Spence Hot Springs.
The crew will be rebuilding existing rock walls, repairing fencing, doing treadwork and making minor bridge repairs. In addition to improving hikers' experience on the trail, the work will also reduce erosion and sediment loading in the East Fork of the Jemez River.

Tuesday August 4, 2020

 As of Monday  New Mexico has 21130 cases of the corona virus, 131 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 655 deaths. 577810 people have been tested. 8,453 people have recovered. Due to a technical disruption of the electronic laboratory reporting system, the following data reflects only a partial total for today's case update. Los Alamos has 20 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.
For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough.
But for some people who contract the virus, especially those who are older or have underlying health conditions, it can cause more severe illness and death.
The vast majority of people who are diagnosed with COVID-19 recover.

The Youth Activity Centers in Los Alamos and White Rock will resume operations on the first day of school for the Los Alamos Public Schools. The Youth Activity Centers (YACs) operate afterschool from 3pm - 6pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, and 12pm - 6pm on Wednesdays.
Los Alamos Family Council (LAFC) understands that while students will not be attending school in person at the beginning of the school year - but seeks to be of assistance by providing supervised activities for youth for part of the day.
As COVID Safe Practices restrict the number of youth we will be able to serve at a given time, we have a new registration process to sign up for a lottery for the limited available spaces. YAC staff will begin processing these registrations on Thursday August 6 and Friday August 7. As COVID Safe Practices are updated to follow the Public Health Orders, YAC staff will expand the number of available spaces and allow for more youth to participate.
Interested parents and guardians can register by going to the LAFC webpage (lafamilycouncil.org) or YAC Facebook page (facebook.com/LosAlamosYAC).

Monday August 3, 2020

 As of Sunday New Mexico has 21016 cases of the corona virus, 127 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 654 deaths. 574,253 people have been tested. 8,343 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 20 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

The Los Alamos School Board is in search of a person to fill the vacancy left on the board with the departure of current member Julia Baker. Baker, who represents District 4, will be relocating to another state.
The term will begin September 1 and run through December 31, 2021. An official notice of vacancy will be published on Monday, August 3, 2020.
Applicants must be a registered voter, over 18 years of age, and reside in District 4. District 4 includes Barranca and North Mesa. Interested candidates should submit a letter of interest and a resume to the board secretary, Debra Larson, at d.larson@laschools.net. The deadline for submissions is August 17.

Friday July 31, 2020

 As of Thursday New Mexico has 20388 cases of the corona virus, 156 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 635 deaths. 551637 people have been tested. 8015 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 18 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

During June and July 2020, Los Alamos Public Schools offered Summer Institute, an opportunity for LAPS employees to receive exceptional professional development. While some outside experts were hired to present, most courses were taught by LAPS employees.
This year's Institute was split into two sessions over the summer: one in June and one in July. Each session included three days of courses offered to all teachers and school staff.
This year, courses were devoted to technology for remote learning and wellness for our staff members. The courses included technology, virtual learning environment, whole child education, health and well-being as well as applicable self-paced options like becoming a Google Certified Educator.
In June, 140 participants completed 22 courses, and some staff members took more than one course.
The July session had 50 courses to choose from and 265 participants signed up to attend. Virtual learning topics included Google Classroom, Pear Deck and Flipgrid. Summer Institute gives teachers the chance to explore new web application resources purchased by the district.

Thursday July 30, 2020

  As of Wednesday New Mexico has 20136 cases of the corona virus, 158 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 632 deaths. 544611 people have been tested. 7817 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 17 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Society for Science & the Public have announced that Lillian Petersen of Los Alamos, won the $250,000 top award in the Regeneron Science Talent Search 2020, the nation's oldest and most prestigious science and math competition for high school seniors.
Forty finalists, including Lillian, were honored during a virtual award ceremony. More than $1.8 million was awarded to the finalists, who were evaluated based on the scientific rigor of their projects, their exceptional problem-solving abilities and their potential to become scientific leaders.
First place winner Lillian Petersen invented a simple tool for predicting harvests early in the growing season, which helps to improve food distribution planning and offers a promising resource to those working to address global food insecurity. Lillian first validated her tool, which analyzes daily satellite imagery using accepted measures of vegetation health, on known domestic crop data. She then tested it for countries in Africa and successfully predicted harvests with high accuracy against reported yields

Wednesday July 29, 2020

As of Tuesday New Mexico has 19791 cases of the corona virus, 160 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 626 deaths. 536853 people have been tested. 7657 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 17 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.
Los Alamos County Traffic & Streets Division will be working on a Pavement Preservation project along Central Ave. on Thursday, July 30, 2020. Crews will be pavement patching between 15th St. and Oppenheimer.
In order to limit business and resident disruption, this work has been scheduled to occur at night. Crews will use a one-lane closure with a flagging operation from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Starting at 8:00 PM until 6:00 AM, Central Ave. will be closed from 15th St. to Oppenheimer. It is anticipated that this work will be completed in one night.
Los Alamos County is committed minimizing the impacts to local business and the travelling public. We have met with several of the business that will be affected, to try and limit their disruption.

Tuesday July 28, 2020

On Tuesday there were 467 new corona virus cases in New Mexico --- 170 came from the Cibola County Correctional center. New Mexico has 19502 cases of the corona virus, 159 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 619 deaths. 528890 people have been tested. 7459 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 17 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

- With the onset of the summer monsoons and decreasing fire danger, the Carson, Cibola and Santa Fe National Forests are rescinding Stage 2 fire restrictions, including the ban on campfires, at 8 a.m. Wednesday, July 29, 2020.
The forests implemented Stage 2 restrictions, which also included a "hoot owl" provision prohibiting chainsaws between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., on May 20 to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfire at a time when fire indices were spiking.
Forest managers use several criteria to determine when to lift fire restrictions, including current and predicted weather, fuel moisture, fire activity levels and available firefighting resources. T
Now that campfires are again allowed on Northern New Mexico national forests, fire managers remind the public that abandoned campfires are still the leading cause of human-caused wildfires. Forest visitors are urged to follow campfire safety procedures. It is every camper's responsibility to properly maintain and extinguish a campfire to prevent wildfires.
Campfire guidelines:
" Never cut whole trees or branches, dead or alive. Live materials will not burn and dead standing trees, snags, are often homes for birds and other wildlife.
" Do not burn aerosol cans, pressurized containers, glass or aluminum cans. They could explode, shatter and/or create harmful fumes.
" Keep the fire to a manageable size.
" Never leave your campfire unattended.
Ensure campfire is fully extinguished:
" Allow wood to burn completely to ash, if possible.
" Pour water on the fire. Drown all embers, not just the red ones. Pour until hissing sound stops.
" If water is not available, stir dirt or sand into the embers with a shovel to bury the fire.
" Scrape any remaining sticks and logs with a shovel to remove any embers.
" Continue adding water, dirt, or sand and stir with a shovel until all material is cool.
" If it is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave.
Violators of regulations that prohibit abandoning a campfire are subject to a fine and/or imprisonment. If an abandoned campfire causes a wildfire, violators can also be held responsible for fire suppression costs.

Monday July 27, 2020

 As of Sunday New Mexico has 19042 cases of the corona virus, 144 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 614 deaths. 520718 people have been tested. 7349 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 16 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

Two more meetings are scheduled to provide project status updates on the Carbon Free Power Project (CFPP) prior to a decision that will be made by the Board of Public Utilities and the County Council on whether Los Alamos continues on to the next phase of project development. A joint Board of Public Utilities and County Council meeting is scheduled for July 28 and a virtual town hall for the community is scheduled for August 3. Additionally the Los Alamos Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has opened an Open Forum page on the county website, where citizens may provide written public comments and ask questions regarding the project.
The proposed CFPP is the construction of a nuclear electric generation facility to be sited at Idaho National Laboratory that uses up to 12 small modular reactors (SMR). Los Alamos County has subscribed to 11.2 megawatts from this 720 megawatt facility to be operational in 2029, to assist with DPU's goal to be a carbon neutral electric provider by 2040. More information on the project is available at https://ladpu.com/CFPP.
The upcoming July 28 joint Board of Public Utilities and County Council meeting is for discussion only and will include a presentations by staff from the DPU Staff and Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems (UAMPS) who will be present to answer questions. Citizens wishing to make public comment during the scheduled 6 p.m. virtual meeting may join by clicking on the Zoom link.https://zoom.us/j/95187709751   Visit http://losalamos.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx for a copy of the agenda and to watch the council proceedings.

On August 3, citizens are invited to join a virtual Town Hall at 6 p.m. DPU staff will present the project status and answer questions directly from the community. Visit https://ladpu.com/CFPP and click on the link for the August 3rd Town Hall meeting.

Friday July 24, 2020

 As of Thursday New Mexico has 18163 cases of the corona virus, 167 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 596 deaths. 496,985 people have been tested. 7056 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 16 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on Thursday hit the pause button on reopening public schools this fall, meaning classes will be virtual at least through Sept. 7.
State public education officials initially proposed a hybrid plan combining in-person classroom time with remote online learning, but the governor said during a briefing that the rates of spread and positivity for the coronavirus are troubling.
The governor pointed to an additional 343 COVID-19 cases that were reported by state health officials Thursday, saying that marks New Mexico's all-time daily high since the pandemic started.
If things improve, the state could roll out its hybrid plan after the Labor Day holiday by bringing back the youngest students first, followed by middle schoolers and then high school students. The goal, the governor said, is to have all students back in the classroom at some point with no hybrid schedules.

Thursday July 23, 2020

As of Wednesday New Mexico has 17828 cases of the corona virus, 178 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 591 deaths. 489334 people have been tested. 6974 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 16 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

A bear encounter on the Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF) last Friday went terribly wrong, leaving a Los Alamos woman in the hospital with a collapsed lung, several broken bones and multiple bites.
Although relatively rare, close encounters between humans and large predators like bears and mountain lions can occur on the SFNF, especially when drought conditions bring wild animals to lower elevations. You can minimize the possibility of a confrontation by following some basic guidelines. Keep your distance, and don't give the animal a reason or an opportunity to attack.
SFNF forest biologist Daryl Ratajczak, who has studied large predators for years, says that if you encounter a bear or cougar at close range, "it is NOT a one-size-fits-all response. Your reaction should always be based on the behavior of the animal."
If the animal is reacting in a defensive manner, the most common situation, they are upset at your presence. "More than likely you entered their personal space, they have offspring around, there is a fresh food source nearby, or your dog is intimidating to them," Ratajczak said. "They just want you to go away."
Bears may become very blustery and vocal, huffing or popping their jaws, and may even do a bluff charge. A cougar hisses or snarls to let you know it is upset by your presence. "Do not run, do not turn, simply talk quietly in a calm voice and slowly back out of their space." Most of the time, that successfully ends the encounter for both parties.
If, however, the animal is acting in an offensive manner, it usually means they are in predator mode in search of food. "If they see you as prey, they will become silent and sneaky, keeping their head down low and their eyes on you." This behavior warrants a completely different response.
"You must show the bear or cougar that you are the dominant animal. Stand your ground and talk or yell in a loud, firm voice - no high-pitched screams," Ratajczak said. Grab sticks, rocks or bear spray and be prepared to use it. Do not turn or take your eyes off the animal threatening you. A hard stare will often slow or stop its approach.
"It's your time to put on a show and let them know who is in charge. In most situations, once the animal recognizes you mean business, it will back down. In the worst-case scenario, be prepared to aggressively defend yourself," Ratajczak said.

Wednesday July 22, 2020

As of Tuesday New Mexico has 17517 cases of the corona virus, 154 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 588 deaths. 481531 people have been tested. 6870 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 16 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

Colle Fire on Santa Fe National Forest
Start Date: July 19, 2020
Cause: Lightning
Size: 5+ acres
Location: Jemez Ranger District, 1 mile east of Aspen Peak and approximately 4.5 miles south of the community of Cochiti Mesa. The Colle Fire is located inside the burn scare of the 2011 Las Conchas Fire.
Containment: 0%. The fire is currently in monitor status.
Fuels: Primarily dead timber and oak brush, with light to moderate fuel loads.
Topography: Extremely rugged terrain with limited access.
Weather: A prolonged monsoon pattern from Wednesday through the end of the week is expected to bring slow-moving thunderstorms and a 70% chance of precipitation with winds from the southeast at 10-15 mph and 73-93% humidity.
Resources: The Colle Fire is being monitored at a distance by ground and air resources.
Values at Risk: There are no immediate values at risk.
Safety: The fire is located in extremely steep terrain in a snag patch of dead timber, which poses extreme hazards to firefighters on the ground. Drones pose a serious risk to firefighting and can cause air operations to cease. The public is reminded that "If you fly, we can't!"
Strategy: Based on several factors, including firefighter safety, fire location, available fuels, weather forecasts and values at risk, the Colle Fire is in monitor status.
Smoke: Although the fire is not very active, smoke may be visible from the community of Cochiti Mesa and along Forest Road 289 and NM State Highway 4.

Tuesday July 21, 2020

As of Monday New Mexico has 17215 cases of the corona virus, 154 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 578 deaths. 476497 people have been tested. 6814 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 14 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

LANL Foundation introduces NEW 2020 Education Enrichment Grant Cycle, requesting proposals from educators ready to pioneer New Mexico's evolving learning frontier.
Los Alamos National Laboratory Foundation is presenting a new grant cycle with the largest competitive round of funding the foundation has distributed to date: its 2020 Education Enrichment Grant cycle. Proposals are due on July 26, 2020, at 5:00 p.m. MST.
Through a two-stage application process, LANL Foundation will select twelve recipients to receive $20,000 awards, totaling $240,000 of investment in education across Northern New Mexico. The grant cycle was designed with a focus on equity and access, stemming from the LANL Foundation's mission, vision, and commitment to listening to the communities it serves, promoting racial and social equity in all its programs and grantmaking.
Open to schools/school districts, 501(c)3 organizations, and Pueblo/Tribal communities in LANL Foundation's seven-county service area, this RFP is a call to action to leaders in local school and community-based education to envision and implement change-making ideas. During this time of unprecedented challenges, educators, schools, and districts are anticipating multiple scenarios for a return to school; and nonprofits are adapting programming to embrace delivering support virtually. Thus this is the time when education grants can truly elevate academic strategies for success.

Monday July 20, 2020

As of Sunday New Mexico has 16971 cases of the corona virus, 161 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 571 deaths. 469215 people have been tested. 6764 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 14 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

Yesterday there were 4 small fires above the Quemazon subsivision on National Forest land. - LAFD and the USFS were on the scene and actively addressing the fires covering about 1 acre along with a helicopter doing water drops on the fire using water from LA Reservoir. Access was restricted to Quemazon and Pipeline Trails. Individuals were asked not to travel to LA Reservoir, which was an active part of fire operations at this time. The last update was yesterday at 4:20 pm. We will give you more information as it becomes available. It did rain in the area.

Sunday July 19, 2020

UPDATE, JULY 19, 4:20 PM - Now that storms have passed, LAFD is reporting that crews are back at work on the Quemazon fire, along with a helicopter doing water drops on the fire using water from LA Reservoir. Access continues to be restricted to Quemazon and Pipeline Trails. Individuals are asked not to travel to LA Reservoir, which is an active part of fire operations at this time.

UPDATE, JULY 19, 3:12 PM - LAFD has temporarily pulled crews off the Quemazon fire due to storms in the area. Crews will resume operations once the weather clears. The helicopters dropping water on the small fires also suspended activity because of the storms and will resume operations once the storm moves away from Los Alamos.
FIRE ALERT, JULY 19, 1:12 PM - LAFD and the USFS are on the scene and actively addressing four small fires spotted late this morning above the Quemazon subdivision of Los Alamos. Two helicopters are dumping water on the fire and the fires are approximately one or two acres. Individuals are asked to stay clear of Quemazon Trail, Pipeline Trail and the LA Reservoir. The Quemazon Trail is CLOSED to hikers at the entrance at 48th Street and Trinity. Pipeline Trail is CLOSED to hikers at its entrance on Quemazon Rd. With helicopters busy taking water from LA Reservoir, LAFD asks that individuals avoid LA Reservoir for public safety

Friday July 17, 2020

As of Thursday New Mexico has 16138 cases of the corona virus, 170 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 562 deaths. 443368 people have been tested. 6578 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 14 cases. 2029 people have been tested here in Los Alamos County. 6 people have recovered. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

According to the Los Alamos Reporter, After more than 30 hours of testimony given during a hearing that lasted three days, the Los Alamos County Board of Appeals voted unanimously to deny an appeal by Sirphey, LLC against the issuance of a Nov. 22 red tag by the County's chief business official Michael Arellano because Sirphey failed to show that Arellano's issuance of the red tag was unlawful, arbitrary or capricious.
The location involved in the hearing was to be the future home of Unquarked and is located at 813 Central Avenue in the Marimac Shopping Center and the stop work order was issued because Arellano maintained that no permit had been obtained for work at premises. Sirphey and Unquarked owner Prashant Jain maintained that the referenced work has not been undertaken. Jain claimed that before the stop work order was prepared by Arellano, no inspection of the premises took place.

Thursday July 16, 2020

As of Wednesday New Mexico has 15,841 cases of the corona virus, 174 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 557 deaths. 437005 people have been tested. 6496 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 13 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

 Water crews responded to two water line breaks on 33 Street yesterday - one approximately 100 feet north of Villa and the other approximately 100 feet south of Villa in front of Aspen Elementary School. . Customers on 33 Street had no water and customers on 34 through 39 Streets had no to low water pressure. Water service was restored to all customers by 8:30 pm.
Department officials offer the following information to customers once water is restored:
" Water at first may appear murky due to entrained air. This problem will resolve itself in a day or so.
" For a day or two there may be a small amount of sediment or rust in the water that was stirred up from the bottom of the water main. While aesthetically unpleasant, it does not pose a health risk.
" Flushing home plumbing lines with cold water for a couple of minutes can help clear up the water sooner.
" If water quality problems persist for more than two days, water customers should contact the department at 505.662.8333 or CustomerCare@lacnm.us.

Wednesday July 15, 2020

As of Tuesday New Mexico has 15514 cases of the corona virus, 171 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 551 deaths. 430006 people have been tested. 6429 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 13 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

The LAPS School Board voted Tuesday night to open schools with 100% remote learning for all students. Any change to the hybrid model will include a 4-week lead time and be based upon meeting criteria developed by LAPS staff and approved by the School Board, subject to PED requirements and Health Orders.
School will begin on Thursday, August 13 for all students registered with LAPS. Teachers will report on August 5.
The School Board had considered a hybrid model which would limit the number of students present in the building at any given time, but members agreed that it is important to make a decision that is the safest for staff and students and enables teachers to have time to prepare.
Teachers and staff will have opportunities to develop their remote learning skills through professional development and access to tools and resources to enhance online learning.
The Safe Start Task Force has been working on a plan for the start of the 2020-2021 school year. Click here to see the current report.
LAPS has solicited feedback from staff, parents, students and community members on the safe start of school which has been considered in making this decision.
LAPS staff will begin planning for the 100% remote learning Wednesday morning. More information will be sent to parents to help with preparing students for the start of school.

Tuesday July 14, 2020

As of Monday New Mexico has 15291 cases of the corona virus, 172 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 548 deaths. 424355 people have been tested. 6363 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 12 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department's (EMNRD) State Parks Division provides the following updates in response to changes to the public health order.
Limitations on Visitors:
o Anyone coming to New Mexico from out of state must self-quarantine for 14 days.
o Beginning Monday, July 13th, only New Mexico residents may enter New Mexico State Parks.
o Visitors must show either a valid New Mexico license plate, a New Mexico driver's license or ID card, a New Mexico vehicle registration, a federal document attesting to residency, or a military ID to be admitted to a State Park.
Hours of Operation:
o 31 State Parks remain open for day-use only. Please know before you go and check our website for current hours.
o Overnight camping remains closed.

Monday July 13, 2020

As of Sunday New Mexico has 15028 cases of the corona virus, 170 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 545 deaths.418357 people have been tested. 6322 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 12 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

 The New Mexico Department of Transportation and Star Paving Contractors continue working on NM502 in Los Alamos between Knecht Street and Tewa Loop. Weather permitting, work should be complete in the winter of 2020.
Paving near the intersection of DP Rd and Trinity Drive has been completed. Star Paving still has work to complete at the NW corner of the intersection of Knecht and Trinity Drive.
On Monday, Tewa Loop will be closed for approximately 4-5 hours to allow crews to prepare subgrade and place base course for the tie-in to NM502.
Existing detours remain in effect, however, the traffic control on westbound Trinity Drive that had reduced traffic to a single lane from DP Rd to the Knecht Street intersection has ended and both westbound lanes are now open to traffic. Drivers can expect minor delays through the existing work zone from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday.
Please use caution in the construction zone. Speeding over the 25mph limit continues to be a safety concern for crews working within these constrained, congested work zones. Be patient and obey all traffic signs. The NMDOT appreciates your cooperation.

Friday July 10, 2020

As of Thursday New Mexico has 14251 cases of the corona virus, 154 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 533 deaths. 395881 people have been tested. 6118 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 11 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

 New Mexico authorities will halt indoor restaurant service, close state parks to nonresidents and suspend autumn contact sports at schools in response to surging coronavirus infections in the state and in neighboring Texas and Arizona.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham unveiled the sweeping orders Thursday. She says they take effect Monday, saying that "we are at war with COVID-19."
Cancelled autumn sports include football and soccer and affect not only public schools but recreational leagues for all ages. People exercising outdoors will be expected for the first time to wear a mask.

Thursday July 9. 2020

As of Wednesday New Mexico has 14017 cases of the corona virus, 154 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 527 deaths. 389687people have been tested. 6051 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 11 cases. Practice social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy. The Governor will speak on facebook this afternoon to discuss the most recent health orders.

At the intersection of DP Road / Trinity Drive, Star Paving's crew is currently paving the intersection. Work should be done by Friday - at that point, the flagging operation will be no longer be necessary. Because of the tight logistics and constraints for crews to work at this intersection, no other detour alternatives are available. Construction work has to be done on portions of the intersection, one section at a time, while maintaining traffic flow through the intersection.
The westbound right lane closure traffic control between DP Rd and Knecht Street should be finished Thursday. This closure was required to build sidewalk and ADA ramps. Star Paving still has work to complete at the NE & NW corner of the intersection of Knecht and Trinity Drive.
Star Paving will be paving Thursday and Friday on the south side of NM502 and west of the Roundabout. Motorists are urged to watch for turning asphalt trucks and other heavy equipment in the area. Motorists are reminded of the speed limit of 25 mph in the work zone; speeding above 25mph continues to be a safety issue for work crews in this area. Slow down, and be observant of traffic signs and traffic activity in the area.

Wednesday July 8, 2020

-As of Tuesday New Mexico has 13,727 cases of the corona virus, 133 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 519 deaths. 385,242 people have been tested. 5986 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 11 cases.

- The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) encourages everyone statewide to be mindful of heat-related illness and know the signs to watch for during this period of extreme heat. It is forecast that most of the state with exceptions of high mountain regions (over 7,000 feet above sea level) will experience temperatures approaching or even above 100 degrees Fahrenheit lasting through the upcoming weekend.
Outdoor recreation and activities should be avoided between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. during these high-temperature days. The Department of Health reminds New Mexicans to never leave children or pets in a parked car even for a few minutes.
Heat stress can have many symptoms like dizziness, nausea, cramping, and weakness and can progress to heat stroke and death, if left unchecked.
Local entities should consider deploying plans for ensuring people have access to drinking water and checking on those who are home-bound. People with disabilities are especially vulnerable to extreme heat events. The combination of physical and social factors means that people with disabilities are, on average, more vulnerable to heat stress, heat exhaustion or death during extreme heat events.

Tuesday July 7, 2020

-As of Monday New Mexico has 13,507 cases of the corona virus, 129 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 515 deaths. 380,240 people have been tested. 5902 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 9 cases.

The Fourth of July weekend on the Santa Fe National Forest (SFNF) was unexceptional in the best definition of the word - no fire starts, no reports of illegal fireworks and no abandoned and/or illegal campfires on three of the five districts.
Patrols did find 21 illegal and/or abandoned campfires on the Jemez Ranger District, and another three on the Coyote Ranger District. But none of those campfires escaped and became a larger problem for firefighters to contend with.
Visitors to the Jemez Ranger District will also be glad to know that the district today lifted the closure order that had closed an 11-mile segment of Forest Road (FR) 10 to replace 24 culverts. Although FR 10 is open, visitors should be prepared for delays as road crews continue resurfacing the road from the intersection of FR 270 south to the Paliza Family Campground. That work is expected to continue for another two months.

Monday July 6, 2020

As of Sunday New Mexico has 13,256 cases of the corona virus, 119 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 513 deaths. 375,054 people have been tested. 5860 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 8 cases

The State Aging and Long-Term Services Department wraps up the food boxing and distribution operation that provided more than half a million meals to homebound, low-income seniors and adults with disabilities across the state of New Mexico
The Aging and Long-Term Services Department [ALTSD] created an entire food boxing and distribution operation, from the ground up, in order to address food insecurities for the vulnerable population of homebound, low-income seniors and adults with disabilities. For months, the Department coordinated bulk food buys from Roadrunner Food Bank, Shamrock Distributors, Ben E. Keith Distributors, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. More than 700,000 pounds of food, in the form of pallets were unpacked and then repacked into meal boxes with 14 days' worth of food items. From staples like pancake mix and oatmeal to beef stew and canned vegetables, all of the non-perishables were then distributed to hub sites across the state. Home delivery was provided by staff and volunteers from ALTSD's Aging Network.
ALTSD Planning and Policy Director, Dolores Gonzales, "I am so very thankful to our partners and volunteers. Without their help, it would have been near to impossible to get this operation up and running. St. Pius Catholic High School graciously lent us their gymnasium for nearly 14 weeks at no cost. Bernalillo County provided forklifts and operators every time a shipment of food came in. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints generously gave us a humanitarian grant, provided two additional semi-trucks of food - grown from farmers and ranchers in Utah - wrote letters to our seniors, and provided 20-40 volunteers daily to help pack the boxes."
Funding for the project was provided by the Federal CARES Act.

Saturday July 4, 2020

 As of Friday New Mexico has 12,776 cases of the corona virus, 130 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 511 deaths. 363,374 people have been tested. 5802 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 8 cases. Practise social distancing and wear a mask in public to help keep us all healthy.

Happy 4th of July!

Today at 12:30 we will broadcast Robert Benjamin's Play Hunkered Down.

At 1pm we are broadcasting the Community Winds 4th of July Concert.

Friday July 3, 2020

 As of Thursday New Mexico has 12,520 cases of the corona virus, 127 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 503 deaths. 356,637 people have been tested. 5627 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 8 cases.

Today is the federal holiday for the 4th of July. Local State and Federal offices are closed.

Thursday July 2, 2020

As of Wednesday New Mexico has 12,276 cases of the corona virus, 127 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 500 deaths. 350060 people have been tested. 5514 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 8 cases.

New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on Wednesday said there will be more aggressive enforcement of the state's public health order, including individual fines, to rein in rising coronavirus infection rates across the state.
The Democratic governor said people who ignore mask requirements in public places can be fined $100 and that businesses that flout the health order will see workplace citations and misdemeanor criminal charges.
New Mexico is re-applying a mandatory 14-day quarantine for all out-of-state visitors.
Lujan Grisham urged people to forgo family gatherings and public celebrations on Independence Day and warned that infection trends could interfere with efforts to resume classes at public schools.
The state is holding off on changes to its public health order until July 15, after reopening restaurants and breweries at partial capacity in June.

Wednesday July 1, 2020

 As of Tuesday New Mexico has 12,147 cases of the corona virus, 127 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 497 deaths. 344,181 people have been tested. 5393 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 8 cases.

Los Alamos County Council recently proclaimed July 2, 2020 as Los Alamos Farmers' Market Day. The Market, which celebrates 50 years this season, will offer the community fun giveaways like helicopters, puffer balls and finger lights at the Market booth this Thursday from 7-12:30 p.m. at Ashley Pond Park.
Produce and other goods available this week include cherries, garlic, onions, green beans, radishes, peas, carrots, lettuce and salad mix, spinach, tomatoes, cucumbers, asparagus, honey, apple cider and dried apples, tortillas, goat milk soaps, cookies, scones, tarts, croissants, quiche, tea breads, danish, pot pies, quinoa salad, soup mixes, beans, eggs, pork and lamb, buffalo, beef and chicken, yak, jams and jellies, vinegar, organic body products, burritos, and more.
The community must continue to wear masks while at the Market and abide by the other COVID-safe guidelines previously announced.

Tuesday June 30, 2020

 As of Monday New Mexico has 11 982 cases of the corona virus, 119 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 493 deaths. 337, 720 people have been tested. 5296 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 8 cases.

Los Alamos County's Community Development Department and the Los Alamos Housing Partnership (LAHP) have announced that Cycle 5 of the Home Renewal Program will open on July 1st. Residents who income qualify and require financial assistance to make repairs or improvements to their homes are encouraged to apply for this subsidized loan program. Homeowners are not required to make payments unless the home is sold or vacated.
Examples of projects that may qualify for funding from the Home Renewal Program include window and door replacement, unsafe deck and porch repair or replacement, exterior siding and stucco repair/replacement, lead-based paint, asbestos and mold remediation, boiler replacement, roof repair or replacement, and accessibility improvements.
Interested applicants should visit the LAHP website at www.losalamoshousingpartnership.org to download an informational brochure, an application and checklist.. Hard copies of the brochure and application materials may be picked up at LAHP. Interested applicants must arrange to meet with LAHP Director Steve Brugger before they begin filling out the application form.
The closing date for applications will be August 31, 2020. LAHP will package all eligible applications to submit to a Loan Review Committee. The program is funded by the County. Applications will be prioritized according to the criteria in the Policies and Procedures manual.
For more information or to arrange to meet with LAHP Director Steve Brugger, call 662-8918 or visit www.losalamoshousingpartnership.org

Monday June 29, 2020

 As of Sunday New Mexico has 11 809 cases of the corona virus, 114 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 492 deaths. 331, 048 people have been tested. 5264 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 8 cases.

The creation of a state commission on civil rights and changes aimed at ensuring access to Election Day polls on Native American lands were among the measures signed into law Friday by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham.
The governor also signed a bill that would authorize the issuance of short-term bonds as part of an effort to stabilize state finances amid the economic upheaval prompted by the coronavirus pandemic.
The three bills were among eight that lawmakers passed during the recent special session, which focused primarily on solvency issues for state government. Lujan Grisham still has to act on the budget bill as well as legislation that would mandate police body cameras for nearly all state and local law enforcement officers.
As for the civil rights commission, the nine-member panel will consider changes to qualified immunity provisions that currently protect police officers from lawsuits, allowing them to be sued for misconduct. It also will be charged with making recommendations regarding the creation of a civil right of action for any violations of state constitutional rights.
Under the legislation, a report from the commission is due to lawmakers by Nov. 15.
The legislation pertaining to elections allows for specialized public health orders to protect election officials, poll workers and voters. It also protects the voting rights of New Mexico Pueblos and tribes by ensuring polling places will not be closed or consolidated without the written agreement of tribal officials.
While the short-term bonding measure passed with bipartisan support, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are still concerned about the difficult choices they'll be faced with in 2021 as they craft the next state budget. They'll be dealing with a significant revenue shortfall.

Friday June 26, 2020

 As of Thursday New Mexico has 11192 cases of the corona virus, 135 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 485 deaths. 314670 people have been tested. 5047 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 7 cases.

Efforts to open more of New Mexico's economy are on hold because of an uptick in cases in recent days, a trend that Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on Thursday called troubling and blamed on lax social behaviors.
The governor said during a briefing that a false sense of security has developed among Americans in general and that people are not being vigilant about staying home, wearing masks when they go out and keeping their distance from others.
She mentioned mask-less tourists in Santa Fe and said the majority of people she saw on her drive to the state Capitol had no face coverings. She pointed to residents who traveled to neighboring states for baseball tournaments and graduation ceremonies who ended up bringing the coronavirus home with them.

Thursday June 25 2020

 As of Wednesday New Mexico has 10990 cases of the corona virus, 149 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 480 deaths. 308105 people have been tested. 4984 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 7 cases.

The state of New Mexico is partnering with various business organizations to give 171,000 cloth face coverings to small businesses around the state for free distribution to workers and customers who don't have their own. The Los Alamos Chamber of Commerce received 3,000 of the masks and will distribute these to local businesses.
The masks, manufactured by the apparel company Hanes, were donated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency with distribution coordinated by the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management in partnership with the Association of Commerce and Industry and local chambers of commerce.
To receive masks, please contact the Los Alamos Chamber of Commerce. Ryn Herrmann, Director, can be reached at ryn@losalamos.org and Ufemia Bernal Rios, Membership Coordinator can be reached at ufemia@losalamos.org.

Wednesday June 24, 2020

As of Tuesday New Mexico has 10838 cases of the corona virus, 141 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 476 deaths. 302,083 people have been tested. 4874 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 7 cases.

New Mexico's public schools now have rules and suggestions for how to reopen in the fall in what could amount to a giant experiment during an uncertain time brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.
The Public Education Department released guidance Tuesday that requires schools to start the year in a hybrid learning model with in-person attendance limited to 50% of classroom capacity.
State officials are billing the plan as a prudent and responsible process.
The state's goal is to move all schools into a full school schedule as soon as it can be safely accomplished, the guidance states.
School staff must have their temperatures checked daily and submit to COVID-19 testing. Schools also need to report results to state health officials. Students and staff must wear masks, and large gatherings like pep rallies or assemblies are to be avoided.
The state will monitor cases regionally to determine if some schools can fully reopen or be forced to close due to changes in infection rates.
In the hybrid model, students will have to continue with online lessons when at home.
All students must be provided meals, suggesting schools will have to resume delivery systems for those learning remotely. Cafeterias, if used, are encouraged to stagger lunch times and spread out the students to comply with social distancing requirements.
The guidance comes after a month of consultation with a task force that was made up of scores of parents, teachers and administrators who meet in mass Zoom calls and breakout sessions. They considered many ideas that might have been logistically challenging, such as requiring bus drivers to check every student's temperature.
Scientists at Los Alamos National Laboratory also explored numerous school infection scenarios, according to state Human Services Secretary David Scrase.
School openings in August will be something of an experiment.
The guidance document says reopening schools at half capacity "will allow the state to collect and analyze data on the impact of a controlled start on the spread of the virus."
The guidance does suggest ways that staff could cover for each other, for example by cross training educational aides and substitute teachers.

Tuesday June 23, 2020

 As of Monday New Mexico has 10694 cases of the corona virus, 139 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 469 deaths. 298,076 people have been tested. 4742 people have recovered.

 Los Alamos MainStreet has been designated as a 2020 Accredited Main Street America™ program. Accredited status is Main Street America's top tier of recognition and signifies a demonstrated commitment to comprehensive commercial district revitalization and proven track record of successfully applying the Main Street Approach™.
Los Alamos MainStreet's performance is evaluated by New Mexico MainStreet, which works in partnership with Main Street America to identify the local programs that meet ten rigorous performance standards. Evaluation criteria determines the communities that are building comprehensive and sustainable revitalization efforts and include standards such as fostering strong public-private partnerships, documenting programmatic progress, and actively preserving historic buildings.
Los Alamos MainStreet strives to work with the downtown businesses to identify unique ways to promote local goods and services, highlight the local science and history culture, and bring more people downtown more of the time. It does this in part by hosting four signature events each year in the district, in partnership with Los Alamos County: Los Alamos ScienceFest in July, the Fair & Rodeo Parade in August, Halloweekend and Trick-or-Treat on MainStreet in October and the WinterFest Holiday Lights Parade in December. It also hosts the weekly Los Alamos Farmers' Markets on Thursdays from May-October, which was recently expanded to include Saturday Markets June-September.
During these challenging times, Los Alamos MainStreet has worked closely with the Chamber to provide valuable information to the local business community and public at large, from business updates to resources for owners and operators. Additionally, the program helped coordinate complimentary personal protective equipment (PPE) supplies that were distributed to local businesses.
In late 2018, White Rock became part of the state's first County-wide MainStreet program. Work is currently underway to pursue a possible Metropolitan Revitalization Area (MRA) zone in White Rock, which would help stimulate economic development and community building. The designation of an MRA allows for the contribution of public resources to private redevelopment projects, thereby helping catalyze reinvestment in the area. In addition, it gives municipalities the ability to offer tax incentives and tools to help attract and grow commercial activity in the area, leading to long-term redevelopment and a stronger local business market.

Monday June 22, 2020

 As of Sunday New Mexico has 10565 cases of the corona virus, 134 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 469 deaths. 293,431 people have been tested. 4684 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 7 cases.

New Mexico's Legislature on Saturday sent a budget solvency plan to the governor that would mend a multibillion-dollar deficit by scaling back spending increases while tapping federal recovery act money and state financial reserves.
State economists are forecasting a $2.4 billion decline in state government income through June 2021 amid the economic upheaval.
Senate Democrats joined with a handful of Republican in a 30-12 vote on Saturday to approve a roughly $7 billion spending plan for the budget year beginning July 1 that scales back state spending by about $600 million.
State Sen. John Arthur Smith of Deming, a leading architect of the budget rewrite, said state spending is slated to increase by 1.5% during the coming fiscal year - far less than originally planned.
Smith warned that a recovery for New Mexico's crucial oil sector may take a long time.
Salary increases for state agency and public school workers were scaled back from 4% to 1% or less under the proposal, with pay bumps focused on lower-income public employees to offset rising health insurance premiums. State government is under a hiring freeze, with the exception of a 200-job hiring spree to help identify and trace new coronavirus outbreaks.
The spending bill and companion legislation includes relief for local governments, as cities including Santa Fe resort to furloughing employees to stay solvent. A first-time payment linked to internet retail sales taxes would provide $48 million to local governments, while another bill would offer $100 million in low-interest loans to local governments from a state trust fund.

Weekend

 As of Friday New Mexico has 10260 cases of the corona virus, 147 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 464 deaths. 284,602 people have been tested. 4512 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 7 cases.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has ordered state flags to half-staff in observance of Juneteenth. State flags will be flown at half-staff beginning sundown Thursday through sundown Saturday
Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation freeing slaves on Jan. 1, 1863, but it was almost 2 ½ years later, on June 19, 1865, when Union Gen. Gordon Granger read the federal orders in Galveston, Texas, informing enslaved people in Texas that they were free. Juneteenth marks that day.
Juneteenth has been a New Mexico state holiday since 2006. The state traditionally observes Juneteenth on the Saturday nearest to June 19 – June 20 this year – so the executive order requires flags to be lowered both days.

Friday June 19, 2020

As of Thursday  New Mexico has 10153  cases of the corona virus,157 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 456 deaths. 275,897 people have been tested. 4439 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 7 cases. 

A proposal to distribute absentee ballots directly to registered New Mexico voters without a request or application was rejected by a state Senate panel on Thursday

Absentee ballots will continue to be available only by request in New Mexico. An amended election reform proposal advanced to the Senate floor that would allow additional time before an election to request an absentee ballot, more explicit instructions on mail-in deadlines and bar code tracking to trace ballots through the mail.   The state Republican Party has fought in court to ensure that ballots are available by request only, citing concerns about faulty mailing addresses on voter registration records. The Supreme Court in May rejected a request to automatically distribute absentee ballots in response to the pandemic to encourage remote voting.

Thursday June 18, 2020

  As of Wednesday  New Mexico has 10065 cases of the corona virus,161 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 452 deaths. 275,897 people have been tested. 4351 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 7 cases. 

Multiple tribal casinos in New Mexico have reopened despite recommendations from Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham to remain closed to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Isleta Casino & Resort in Albuquerque, Ohkay Hotel Casino in Ohkay Owingeh and Taos Mountain Casino in Taos all have reopened with coronavirus-related precautions, The Santa Fe New Mexican reported.

Tribal casinos are controlled by sovereign nations, so the state cannot prohibit them from reopening.

Tesuque Casino, Pojoaque Pueblo’s Buffalo Thunder Resort & Casino outside Santa Fe and other tribal casinos around the state remained closed.

Wednesday June 17, 2020

 As of Tuesday New Mexico has 9933 cases of the corona virus,156 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 447 deaths. 271,553 people have been tested. 4217 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 7 cases.

Los Alamos Department of Public Utilities announced today that results published in the 2019 drinking water quality report demonstrate excellent water quality throughout Los Alamos County. The report covers the period of January through December 2019 and highlights the department's commitment to providing drinking water that is better than standards required by the state and federal agencies.
The water quality report details drinking water source information, how the county's water is protected and test results, including all substances and levels of substances detected in the water. Los Alamos County customers should receive a copy at their place of residence or business through the U.S. Postal Service the first week of July or may download a copy on the department's website at ladpu.com/dpu under Top Features.
Recently, through cooperation with the Los Alamos National Laboratory, the department has begun initial testing for perfluoralkyl and polyfluoralkyl (PFAS) levels in the drinking water. the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established health advisory levels at 70 parts per trillion.
When PFAS are found in drinking water it is typically localized and associated with a specific facility. The DPU does not anticipate finding levels of PFAS above the health advisory levels as the county's ground water supply is pumped from hundreds to thousands of feet underground. Test results are expected to be received later this year. This information will be release to the public and will be included in the 2020 drinking water quality report.

Tuesday June 16, 2020

 As of Monday New Mexico has 9845 cases of the corona virus,161 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 440 deaths. 267,921 people have been tested. 4160 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 7 cases.

- County Manager Harry Burgess announced that County employees will begin re-populating facilities Monday, June 15, with additional signage and COVID Safe Practices in place.

Burgess said, Beginning Monday, June 15, we will begin re-populating our offices and facilities up to 50% capacity. In some situations, we may be implementing different work schedules - such as a staggered work shift or certain work days - to accommodate needs and facility limitations for six feet of social distancing between employees; however, as more businesses in Los Alamos begin to re-open, it's time for County government to begin to re-open, too.

Burgess said he has been working with the Department Directors and the Emergency Manager on re-opening plans, which vary from facility to facility.

Within the Municipal Building, for example, customers will be directed to enter only through the southwest door and exit using the northwest door typically used by employees. Additional signage will instruct individuals visiting the Customer Care Center or other offices about the maintaining six feet of social distancing. Burgess said that work stations for customer service operations have been retrofit with plexiglass screens, water fountains are being upgraded for water bottle filling stations, and signage within office suites or other areas will instruct employees about CSP.

the County is working with the Los Alamos Public School District's Safe Start team to coordinate the re-opening of schools in August. Many students use Atomic City Transit during the school year, along with youth services provided in County facilities.

Customers should call or e-mail the office they wish to visit before traveling to any County facility over the next two weeks. The Customer Care Center is working through final facility updates for CSP and is expected to re-open customer service windows on Monday, June 22.

Monday June 15, 2020

 As of Sunday New Mexico has 9723 cases of the corona virus,162 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 435 deaths. 263,665 people have been tested. 4114 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 7 cases. 5 have recovered

The Los Alamos Public Schools Board met Tuesday evening for a regular meeting. Board members continued to practice social
distancing by hosting a virtual meeting via Google Meet.
LAPS Business Manager Teresa Gatewood presented information about insurance for LAPS employees
and the proposed rate increases from New Mexico Public Schools Insurance Authority (NMPSIA).
Currently, 288 of approximately 800 school district employees participate in LAPS medical plans. The
cost of medical coverage is scheduled for a rate increase effective October 1, which led to concerns about the costs overriding any potential salary increases. However, Gatewood explained that there is already a cost scale in place based upon an employee's annual salary.
Erin Middleton presented results from the Parent Remote Learning Survey.
Questions focused on the school closure and experience with remote learning. Results showed that the best thing about remote learning is spending time together as a family. The biggest challenges were motivation, distractions and balancing home life. Board members were not surprised by the results.
Dr. Middleton also presented results from this year's Climate Survey sent to school staff. This year's
survey also included COVID questions about communications, technology, professional development,
overall improvement and support. Survey results indicated that customer service has improved, teachers work hard, like working together, feel that the superintendent is visible and accessible, technology is good, site administrators are hard working and there is a positive attitude towards the school board.
The School Board approved a request for the Los Alamos Middle School classroom construction up to
$250,000 to create a 7th grade science lab in an enclosed commons area space. Construction will include the installation of cabinets and other required equipment for a lab as well as the infrastructure, including gas and water.
The next regular school board meeting is Tuesday, July 14 and is scheduled to meet virtually via Google
Meet.

Friday June 12, 2020

 As of Thursday New Mexico has 9367 cases of the corona virus,189 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 420 deaths. 250,880 people have been tested. 3899 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

 Breweries will be allowed to open Friday, the latest type of business to be cleared as New Mexico reopens amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Bars, however, will have to wait.
Like restaurants, breweries will be limited to 50% of normal capacity.

Thursday June 11, 2020

Wednesday June 10, 2020

 As of Tuesday New Mexico has 9105 cases of the corona virus,193 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 404 deaths. 241,657 people have been tested. 3699 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

Atomic City Transit is pleased to announce plans for the phased re-opening of fixed-route public transportation in Los Alamos County beginning Monday, June 15th. Phase-one of reopening fixed-route bus service will include Routes 1, 2M, and 2T operating on reduced hours of daily service, from approximately 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM - Monday through Friday.
A critical factor, as we begin this initial phase of resuming bus service, is maintaining passenger safety by complying with public health recommendations. In accordance with the current Governor's Executive Order:
" Passengers will be required to wear face coverings in order to board and ride the bus
" The number of passengers allowed on each bus will be limited to comply with social distancing recommendations
" Some seats on every bus will be blocked-off to assure adequate spacing between passengers again to comply with social distancing recommendations
Atomic City Transit staff have also implemented the following measures to further enhance public health safety as we begin to resume fixed-route bus service:
" Hand sanitizer will be available on all vehicles for both customers and staff
" All transit vehicles will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected prior to being put into daily service, as well as high touch areas disinfected between trips, throughout the day
" Passengers will board and depart the bus only through the back doors only (when available)
Atomic City Operations and Dispatch staff will monitor bus capacity on the routes and will dispatch additional buses on occasion if/when capacity limits are reached. However, in such situations, schedule delays will occur. Thank you in advance for your understanding as we address such issues during the re-opening
The Dial-A-Ride service, currently in operation County-wide, shall continue with the same service hours from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM - Monday through Friday, for all areas of the County not serviced by Rt 1, 2M, or 2T. Dial-A-Ride service is available to any person and is curb to curb service with ADA accessible vehicles. Please call our office (505) 661-RIDE (7433) the day prior and schedule your appointment. You can also call the same day and book your trip on a space available basis.
For the specific Route 1, 2M, and 2T service schedules, that will go into operation on June 15th please visit our website at:
https://www.losalamosnm.us/government/departments/public_works/atomic_city_transit

Tuesday June 9, 2020

As of Monday New Mexico has 9062 cases of the corona virus,183 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 400 deaths. 238,801 people have been tested. 3380 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

 According to the Los Alamos Reporter, Los Alamos County has released the agenda for Thursday's hearing of the County Appeals Board for Sirphey LLC (Unquarked) against County Building Official Michael Arellano.
The notice does not include motions or issues to be decided, but states that the Appeals Board plans to convene in Council Chambers at the Municipal Building at 9 a.m. so that members Council Chair Sara Scott, County Manager Harry Burgess and County Planning & Zoning Commission Chair Terry Priestley are present in the same physical location for the hearing.
It will be live streamed in the same manner as regular Council meetings to simplify access by the public and to comply with the guidance provided by the New Mexico Attorney General regarding public meeting during this public health emergency. The Council Chambers will not be open to the public.
The documents submitted by the parties in this hearing will be available via a link
from the County's Community Development Department web page.
Los Alamos Council Chair Sara Scott and County Manager Harry Burgess have designated Council Vice Chair Randy Ryti and County Utilities Manager Philo Shelton respectively to take their places on the County Appeals Board for Thursday's hearing on a stop work order placed in November on the proposed new location in the Mari Mac Village Shopping Center of Unquarked which is owned by Prashant Jain.
The documents announcing the changes of the board's composition were emailed to Jain Monday. Jain and Cortni Nucklos had filed motions with the County Clerk's office asking for both Scott and Burgess to be recused in the appeal which is made against County Building Official Michael Arellano. Jain is challenging the legality of the stop work order.

Weekend

 As of Thursday New Mexico has 8353 cases of the corona virus,170 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 383 deaths. 217,757 people have been tested. 3115 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

Trinity Drive is closed to through traffic east of DP road due to construction of the roundabout. Please use 15th street as a detour. Stop using the MariMac ShoppingCenter parking lot as a street detour.

Thursday June 4, 2020

 As of Wednesday New Mexico has 8140 cases of the corona virus,170 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 375 deaths. 212,996 people have been tested. 3013 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

Los Alamos Public Schools is happy to announce that we will expand our New Mexico
Preschool programs for the 2020-2021 school year. NM Preschool programs will be available
at Piñon Elementary in White Rock and Mountain Elementary in Los Alamos.
Each program will be an extended day program that will run for five hours per day. Students will have a certified teacher and instructional assistants in each classroom. All Los Alamos County residents with children who will be 4 years old by September 1, 2020 are encouraged to apply. Students do not have to reside within the Mountain or Piñon school zones to attend.
Applications are now being accepted for both of these programs. Families may apply for a PreK spot
at https://laschools.net/home/registration/ by clicking the NM PRK tab. You will be asked to create a
new School Mint account and enter information for each child. Select PreKindergarten as your child's
current grade level and next year grade level. Placements will be made by lottery by June 15, 2020 and parents will be notified. Students not chosen in the lottery will be placed on a waiting list.
Please contact Jennifer Guy at j.guy@laschools.net or 505-663-2228 with any questions about the program.

Wednesday June 3, 2020

 As of Tuesday New Mexico has 8024 cases of the corona virus,182 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 367 deaths. 206,837 people have been tested. 2960 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases

Los Alamos Fire Department's Fire Marshal Wendy Servey announced today that she is proceeding to Level II Fire Restrictions for Los Alamos County, effective immediately. Servey said the decision was made in partnership with LAFD's Wildland Division after reviewing the potential threat of wildfire.
The following activities are NOT ALLOWED during Level II Fire Restrictions:
 Smoking is prohibited. Exemption: Allowed in a designated area, or enclosed vehicle
 All types of fireworks are prohibited on County public lands and open spaces.
 Welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with an open flame is prohibited,
 Operating or using any internal combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained and in working order is prohibited
 Operating a chainsaw in a forested area is prohibited unless the following conditions are in place: (1) using a chainsaw equipped with an approved spark arresting device, (2) having ready access to a chemical water-pressurized fire extinguisher, and (3) having ready access to a round point shovel with an overall length of at least 35 inches available for use
 Use of firearms or target shooting on public, County lands and open spaces is prohibited. Private shooting ranges such as the Sportsman's Club are permitted to continue to operate.
 Open burning is prohibited on private, County, public lands and open spaces. The burning of trash or rubbish is prohibited.
 Bonfires are prohibited.
 Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal or wood stove, including any fire contained in portable devices such as a grill or chiminea, within all County parks, on developed or undeveloped campgrounds on County land, specifically Camp May Campground and open spaces, is prohibited.
Exemptions: The following exemptions apply to private use at one- and two-family dwellings, if there is no "Red Flag" warning in effect.
(a) Recreational fires - Allowed if using a spark arrestor in a permanently constructed fixed fireplace, ring or grate no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height; recommended to be located at least 25 feet away from structures
(b) Portable outdoor fireplaces, outdoor heater appliances and chimineas - allowed if using a spark arrestor; recommended to be located 15 feet away from structures
(c) Outdoor (NG) and liquid petroleum (LPG-propane) gas stoves and grills - Allowed if equipped with shut-off valves; recommended to be located 3 feet away from all structures.
An exemption does not absolve an individual or an organization from liability or responsibility for any fire started from the exempted activity.

Tuesday June 2, 2020

As of Monday New Mexico has 77800 cases of the corona virus. 191 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 362 deaths. 203,115 people have been tested. 2888 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

Today is election day in the State of New Mexico. The election centers that are open in our community are Los Alamos County Golf Course, Municipal Building and White Rock Town Hall. In person voting is taking place from 7-7. You can turn in your absentee ballot at any of these locations. Voters are encouraged to check the County Clerk's website for election results June 2 night rather than congregating at the Municipal Building.

Monday June 1, 2020

As of Sunday New Mexico has 7493 cases of the corona virus but not all testing labs report on Sunday so the number will be more complete today. 182 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 356 deaths. 199,604 people have been tested. 2853 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

County Clerk Naomi Maestas would like to remind voters that ballots must physically be received
by the Clerk's Office no later than 7 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, June 2nd. As of Friday
morning, records show there were 2,134 outstanding absentee by-mail ballots that
needed to be returned to clerk's office. Per NMSA 1-6-10, Receipt of mailed ballots by clerk. C.
Completed official mailing envelopes shall be accepted until 7:00 p.m. on election day. D. Any
completed official mailing envelope received after that time shall not be qualified…
There are three (3) avenues for voters to return their completed absentee by-mail ballot
to ensure it is received by the prescribed deadline.
1. Drop in Ballot Box outside of the Los Alamos County Clerk's Office, 1000 Central
Avenue, Suite 240.
3. Drop off at any Election Day Vote Center: Los Alamos County Municipal Bldg.,
White Rock Town Hall, and Los Alamos County Golf Course (4244 Diamond Drive),
between 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Voters are encouraged to call the Clerk's Office at 505-662-8010, if they have any
questions or concerns on the status of their ballot, application, or rejection letter - and
the Clerk's Office will gladly share what alternatives are available to assist voters.
Make sure your voice is heard this election, get your vote in Los Alamos!

Saturday May 30, 2020

Los Alamos High School will wrap up Celebrate Our Seniors month with a Parade of Graduates on Saturday, May 30, 2020, starting at 10:00 am.  The community is invited to celebrate our seniors’ accomplishments and show their Topper Pride as members of the Class of 2020 proceed along Diamond Drive.

Social Distancing restrictions are in effect and public gatherings are still not allowed, so everyone participating is encouraged to stay in their vehicle and be especially mindful to wear masks and maintain a six-foot physical distance from any other non-household members.

The parade will begin at the intersection of Orange / Sandia and Diamond Drive, proceed to the roundabout at the base of North and Barranca Mesas, and end at the intersection of Orange and Diamond Drive.  Spectators are asked to line the shoulder of Diamond Drive with their decorated vehicles and honk, wave and cheer on the Class of 2020.  Spectators are also encouraged to find a spot somewhere along the route since the parade will not directly pass the high school.  Diamond will not be closed to local traffic during the parade, and members of the community are encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel on Diamond from 9:45 am to 10:45 am.

Friday May 29, 2020

  As of Thursday New Mexico has 7364 cases of the corona virus, 196 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 335 deaths. 183,544 people have been tested. 2684 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases

New Mexico’s emergency public health order will be extended and amended to permit indoor dining, hair salons, gyms and indoor shopping malls to reopen next week on a limited basis and in accordance with required COVID-Safe Practices, among other changes, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced Thursday.

Restaurants, which were allowed to offer limited outdoor dining on Wednesday, may resume indoor seating at 50 percent maximum occupancy effective Monday, June 1. Bar and counter seating are still prohibited; to be served, customers must be seated at tables positioned at least 6 feet apart among other required and recommended COVID-Safe Practices.

Gyms also will be allowed to reopen at 50 percent occupancy among other restrictions – including that group fitness classes are not permitted – while indoor malls, hair and nail salons, barber shops, tattoo parlors and massage services may begin operating at 25 percent occupancy. Shopping mall food courts must remain closed, and loitering is prohibited. Salons and other personal-service businesses must operate on a by-appointment basis, per the amended order. Waiting rooms will remain closed; clients will not be allowed to enter until time for their appointment.

The amended order becomes effective June 1 upon the expiration of the prior health order, dated May 15. Its provisions apply statewide – meaning the northwestern public health region, encompassing the counties of Cibola, McKinley and San Juan, will operate under the same guidelines as the rest of the state. It will be effective for 30 days, through the end of June.

Also to be incorporated in the amended public health order:

Drive-in theaters may reopen under COVID-Safe Practices;

Nine additional state parks will reopen for day-use only beginning  Saturday, with five more opening Monday, some with capacity limits;

Hotels may operate at 50 percent of maximum occupancy under COVID-Safe Practices;

The 14-day quarantine order for airport arrivals will be amended to permit certain business travel under COVID-Safe Practices.

Tomorrow we will provide music for the Lap Of Diamond celebrating our high school graduates.   Give your Graduate or Friend a shoutout on KRSN 107.1 FM Call us now at 663-1490 or email david@krsnam1490.com and we will add your greeting to the event.  If you want we will record you and you can congratulate them in your voice.  Suggest music and we will play it. It is all to celebrate the Class of 2020.   Congratulations to the Class  Of 2020!!!

Thursday May 28, 2020

  As of Wednesday  New Mexico has 7252 cases of the corona virus, 210 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 329 deaths. 179,543  people have been tested. 2638  people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases

The Los Alamos Police Department would like to invite the public to participate in an Animal Shelter Art Contest.  Through this difficult and confusing time, we would like to ask the youth of community to brighten our walls with their art work depicting their favorite pet or animal.  There will be four age groups and the rules and instructions are below.  Please call 505-662-8179 if you have any questions.

Art contest rules:

There are four age groups:

   up to 5 years old,

   6yrs- 9 years old,

   11yrs- 13 years old,

    14yrs and above

On the back of your drawing please give a brief description of your drawing and please write as clearly as possible.   All art must have your name, age, address, and your parent's name and phone number on the back.

All entries can be mailed to the Animal Shelter at 226 East Road, Los Alamos, NM, 87544 or placed in the mail box outside the shelter, or call and make an appointment to drop off your drawing at the shelter.

All entries must be in by 10 June, 2020.

We will post all drawings on our Facebook Page and they will be voted on.

A winner will be picked from each age groups and will be hung in the lobby of the Animal Shelter for all guests to see when the shelter is back open.

Wednesday May 27, 2020

 As of Tuesday New Mexico has 7130 cases of the corona virus, 211 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 325 deaths. 180,646 people have been tested. 2564 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

Los Alamos High School will host private graduation ceremonies for every member of the Class of 2020 next week over three days, starting on Wednesday. Each graduating senior and their immediate family members will have a pre-arranged time for presentation of their diploma.
Seniors and their immediate family are invited to attend, and all will be required to wear masks. Once they arrive on campus, they will stay in their vehicle. At their appointed time, they will drive up to the stage, step out of their vehicle, put on their cap and gown, and prepare to receive their diploma.
Just as in a classical Graduation ceremony, the student's name will be called, they will be presented their diploma and they'll move their tassel from right to left. The ceremony will end with the traditional tossing of their cap to the cheers of your family and school staff.
The community is invited to celebrate the Class of 2020 at the Parade of Grads "Lap of Diamond" on Saturday, May 30 at 10 am. Family members and members of the community are invited to line the shoulders on both sides of Diamond Drive from the high school to the roundabout to cheer for the Class of 2020 from the safety of their vehicles. Graduates will wear their caps and gowns and be chauffeured by a household member in their decorated vehicles

Tuesday May 26, 2020

As of Monday New Mexico has 7026 cases of the corona virus, 216 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 320 deaths. 177,361 people have been tested. 2522 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

Rita Sanchez, retires at the end of this week, after 35 years in education. The ironic thing is when an educator reflects on their experience as a whole, they find that they grew, as much as their students. Sanchez believes that if helped one kid to stay safe, she did okay. The community would say, she exceeded expectations.
Her Spanish classrooms were a frenzy of activity - a genuine happy place.
She's been through a lot and she wants to enjoy life before she's old. She plans to spend time with her grandkids and family. She wants to do what she wants, when she wants and we are sure that will include a lot of fishing.
Those wanting to wish her well, send a card, letter or gift to P.O. Box 4741 White Rock, NM 87547. Rise for Rita will continue through the middle of June, to collect memories. You can also visit www.cya-nm.org and leave messages. Calls and texts for information can also be directed to 505-695-9139.

Monday May 25, 2020

Happy Memorial Day!

Friday May 22, 2020

As of Thursday, New Mexico has 6472 cases of the corona virus, 205 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 294 deaths. 152,767 people have been tested. 2041 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

Summer is just ahead of when we all spend a lot of time outside, enjoying the outdoors. But this year summer fun will be different due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The American Red Cross offers safety tips you can follow.
If your community is reopening, know what precautions to take in public settings.
o Keep at least 6 feet between yourself and others.
o Wear cloth face coverings, especially in crowded areas. Do not place them on children under age 2.
o Help limit your risk by taking steps to reduce the number of places you go and your exposure to other people.
o Order food and other items for home delivery or curbside pickup, if possible.
o Visit the grocery store and other stores in person only when necessary.
o Stay at home if you are sick
GRILLING SAFETY Summer is a popular time for grilling family meals at home. Yet grilling fires spark more than 10,000 home fires on average each year. To avoid this:
o Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use. Don't add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited.
o Never grill indoors-not in the house, camper, tent or any enclosed area.
o Make sure everyone, including children and pets, stays away from the grill.
o Keep the grill away from the house or anything that could catch fire.
o Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill.

Thursday May 21, 2020

As of Wednesday, New Mexico has 6317 cases of the corona virus, 206 individuals are hospitalized, and there have been 283 deaths. 147,344 people have been tested. 1985 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

Los Alamos Department of Public Utilities' officials remind customers to report any observations of trees, tree branches or other vegetation interfering with overhead power lines. During the COVID-19 public health emergency, the department instructed its contractor, Allied Trees, to focus on clearing trees and branches from utility lines in the canyons and county open spaces. While such activities in populated areas are currently postponed to limit person-to-person contact, the contractor remains available to respond to hazardous conditions observed in the town site or White Rock neighborhoods.
Trees growing through or close to overhead lines can cause the following hazards:
1) Lines can short circuit, resulting in power outages and possibly damaging electrical infrastructure,
2) Trees can create a potential path for electricity to travel to the ground. People or animals that come into contact with this path are at serious risk of being electrocuted, and
3) Leaves and branches touching electric lines in dry weather conditions, can ignite, causing fires.
DPU will dispatch its contractor in these circumstances to remove the threat immediately.
Citizens should report hazardous conditions to the Customer Care Center at 505.662.8333 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or drop an email to CustomerCare@lacnm.us. An electric lineman will assess the situation and respond accordingly.

Wednesday May 20, 2020

As of Tuesday, New Mexico has 6192 cases of the corona virus, 204 individuals have been hospitalized, and 276 deaths. 142,246 people have been tested. 1882 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

Star Paving closed the Tewa Loop Entrance early this morning, and planning to re-open it by 4:00 pm. This closure is necessary for removal of the existing asphalt through the intersection to allow for the new full reconstruction work needed for the NM502 Roundabout. Residents are advised to exit this neighborhood via the Los Alamos Airport entrance.

Tuesday May 19, 2020

As of Monday , New Mexico has 6096 cases of the corona virus, 213 individuals have been hospitalized, and 270 deaths. 137,620 people have been tested. 1796 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

According to the Los Alamos Reporter, The Friends of Los Alamos County Libraries (FLACL) are proud to announce scholarship awards for $2,500 each presented to four high school seniors. The scholarship application process required that they present a written essay on a book that somehow enhanced their life or gave them a better understanding of the human condition. Every one of the applicants should be commended for the effort and creativity with which they presented their essays.
This year's recipients are:
Abigail Beus will be attending Brigham Young University and plans to earn a degree in journalism.
Ray Guffee will be attending Washington State University majoring in Mechanical Engineering.
Kaya Krantz will be attending Fort Lewis College majoring in biology.
Brooklynn Scott has plans to pursue a degree in Media Arts at Brigham Young University.
FLACL was organized in 1978 and has provided additional support to our county's library system for over forty years. Some of this support comes from contributions made by a generous community. Most of the support comes from the Friends Bookstore.
                    

Monday May 18, 2020

As of Sunday,  New Mexico has 5938 cases of the corona virus but not all testing labs report on Sunday so the number will be more complete today. 211 individuals hospitalized, and 265 deaths. 133,253 people have been tested. 1755 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

Los Alamos High School is excited to announce Graduation plans for the class of 2020. The feedback from Seniors and their families on our recent survey was clear - our graduates want a shared experience that they will always remember and can be proud of. Results showed that many graduates and their families have been hoping, as we have, for a ceremony that very closely resembles past years, even if it needed to be delayed.
Senior feedback stressed the importance of the SYMBOLISM of the traditional graduation ceremony, a SHARED EXPERIENCE, the ability to CELEBRATE TOGETHER.
Presentation of Diplomas to Seniors May 27 - 29
Walking across the stage and receiving your diploma is something that just can't happen virtually. To be dressed in your cap and gown, be certified as a graduate, receive your diploma, and move your tassel needs to be "in the flesh". Feedback was very clear that a "drive thru" diploma pick up just wouldn't be the Topper way.
Following good social distancing practices and wearing masks, we will have an outdoor presentation of your diploma. We will read your name, certify you as a graduate, present your diploma, and guide you through the tassel ceremony as your household members look on. Be ready to toss your cap in the air as your family cheers!
We will be together as a whole community on May 30 at 10:00 am to celebrate our grads. "Traditional Parades" as we know them are still not allowed under the current order, so we're creating a uniquely Los Alamos "Lap of Diamond". With everyone's careful attention to social distancing and new guidance for masks in public, graduates will have a chance to make a triumphant victory lap. Wearing Cap and Gown and chauffeured by a household member, graduates will ride in their decorated vehicles down the main drag in town. Family members and members of the community are invited to line the shoulders on both sides of Diamond Drive from the High School to the roundabout to honk, wave, and holler for the Class of 2020 from the safety of their vehicles.

Friday May 15, 2020

As of Thursday New Mexico has 5503 cases of the corona virus.209 individuals are hospitalized, and 242 deaths. 119,604 people have been tested. 1576 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases

The Carson, Cibola and Santa Fe National Forests will implement Stage 2 fire restrictions at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, May 20, 2020, to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfire based on current and forecasted conditions, including very low fuel moisture levels and severe fire weather conditions.
New Mexico State Forestry implemented restrictions on campfires, open fires, smoking and fireworks on non-federal, non-municipal and non-tribal lands statewide on May 13 based on warmer temperatures, lower humidity, high winds and an abundance of dry, fine fuels.

Stage 2 fire restrictions prohibit:
" Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire.
" Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is cleared of vegetation and flammable material.
" Welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with open flame.
" Driving off designated roads. Visitors may park in areas cleared of vegetation within 10 feet of the roadway, or in designated parking areas.
" Operating a chainsaw or other equipment powered by an internal combustion engine between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. The so-called "hoot owl" provision is a historic term that was used to notify woodcutters they could only cut during the morning hours when they could hear owls in the forest. Today, the restriction reduces the risk of an accidental fire start by mechanical equipment during the hottest, driest part of the day. Fuelwood permit holders may still collect wood as long as the chainsaws are off by 10 a.m.
" Fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices are always prohibited on national forests.
While all three national forests are still welcoming visitors, fire indices are spiking and forest managers are concerned about this year's fire season with the added layer of complexity from COVID-19. The Stage 2 restrictions are a proactive way to reduce the very real risk of human-caused wildfire.

Thursday May 14, 2020

As of Wednesday, New Mexico has 5364 cases of the corona virus, 200 individuals have been hospitalized, and 231 deaths. 115,011 people have been tested. 1515 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

The Los Alamos Police Department investigated five cases of graffiti and one case of the Desecration of a Church in the Canyon Rd/Downtown area late last week. LAPD patrol officers discovered that 3 male juveniles had committed criminal damage to property of the following locations;
1001 Oppenheimer (twice)
The Old Smith's building
The Old Hilltop House hotel and pool house
Nectar St. Park
The United Church at 2525 Canyon Rd.
The juveniles were contacted by officers last Thursday and charges will be forwarded to the Juvenile Office of Probation & Parole. The juveniles were released to their parents. Some of the graffiti depicted racial slurs. Any business owner, Church, or private property owner that believes they are also a victim of Criminal Damage to Property may contact LAPD dispatch at 662-8222 to file a report. We want
victims of this type of crime to contact LAPD to make a report before arranging the removal of the graffiti. We also desire to see the graffiti removed as soon as possible to dissuade repeated attempts.

Wednesday May 13, 2020

As of Tuesday New Mexico has 5212 cases of the corona virus, 199 individuals have been hospitalized, and 219 deaths. 110,289 people have been tested. 1434 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

The Lumberton Fire in Rio Arriba County is now 30% contained and holding at 437 acres. Rains impacted the fire area throughout the day Monday and there was no fire growth. Yesterday firefighters continued to secure containment lines as weather conditions are expected to become hotter and drier with increasing wind over the next few days. Six homes are threatened in the area, two of which remain evacuated. Approximately 120 personnel from multiple agencies are working this fire.

Tuesday May 12, 2020

As of Monday New Mexico has 5069 cases of the corona virus, 207 individuals have been hospitalized, and 208 deaths. 106,721 people have been tested. 1300 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) announces COVID-19 testing for all workers in the state. This includes: all government employees (state, county, municipal, federal, etc.), utility and construction workers, grocery and pharmacy employees, retail and wholesale, anyone in food service or other service industries, and any New Mexican at work who would like access to a test, symptomatic or not.
All testing is still FREE OF CHARGE to anyone getting the test, and anyone can get tested, whether they have insurance or not. Please remember to bring your insurance card with you when you get tested and to limit two people per vehicle to avoid unnecessary risk for viral spread.
The state continues to discourage all travel, including shopping and recreational activities between neighboring states.
Testing for coronavirus by the state has increased greatly from limited testing in early March to around 20,000 a week at present, with the goal to test 7,500 persons a day.
Because the department knows COVID-19 infected people without symptoms can unknowingly transmit the virus, more testing is necessary to know where cases are occurring for early identification, isolation and thus further preventing ongoing spread.

Monday May 11, 2020

As of Sunday New Mexico has 4863 cases of the corona virus but not all testing labs report on Sunday so the number will be more complete today. 194 individuals hospitalized, and 200 deaths. 102,498 people have been tested. 1285 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.
The following are NOT ALLOWED during Baseline Fire Restrictions:
* Outdoor smoking in except designated areas.
* Use of fireworks is prohibited on County, or public lands, and open spaces.
Exemption: Professional firework display or pyrotechnics requires an approved permit by the Fire Marshal's Office.
* Open burning is prohibited on private, County, public lands and open spaces. The burning of trash or rubbish is prohibited. No open burn permits will be issued by the Fire Marshal's Office during fire restrictions.
Exemption: Prescribed burns for wildland management by an authorized federal, state or local agency requires approved permit by the Fire Marshal's Office.
* Bonfires are prohibited. No bonfire permits will be issued by the Fire Marshal's Office during fire restrictions.
* Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal or wood stove, including fires in developed or undeveloped campgrounds on County land, specifically Camp May Campground and open spaces, is prohibited.
a) Portable outdoor fireplaces, heaters, chimineas located 15 feet away from structures, however, this does NOT apply to one- and two- family dwellings
b) Outdoor gas stoves or grills fueled by NG or LPG fuels with shut-off valves, located 3 feet from all structures.
c) Charcoal fires in contained barbeques or permanently constructed grills, rings, grates in improved site County parks are permitted.
An exemption does not absolve an individual or an organization from liability or responsibility for any fire started from the exempted activity.

Wednesday May 6, 2020

As of Tuesday New Mexico has 4138 cases of the corona virus.178 individuals are hospitalized, and 162 deaths.83,251 people have been tested. 964 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

The Los Alamos Golf Course will re-open on Friday, May 8 as part of the announcement last week from Governor Michelle Lujan-Grisham's office indicating that golfing is now a permitted activity under her amended public health emergency order related to COVID-19.
Hours of operation will be shortened, and golfers must have a tee time in order to play. Tee times will be in 15-minute intervals from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., seven days a week, until further notice. Golfers must pay with a credit or debit card at the modified check-in window at the Pro Shop; no online payments. No retail sales from the Pro Shop will be available.
Other restrictions during play on the course will apply:
 Golfers must maintain social distancing at all times
 Golfers are encouraged to bring hand sanitizer and wear a face covering
 Only groups of five or less will be allowed on the course
 Drinking water will not be available on the course; golfers should bring their own water bottles
 Golfers are reminded that bringing alcohol from outside the course is not permitted
golf carts will be available for rentals, but only one rider with one golf bag will be allowed per car; golfers will be responsible for removing all articles and trash from the golf car upon completion of their round.

Monday May 4, 2020

As of Sunday New Mexico has 3850 cases of the corona virus but not all testing labs report on Sunday so the number will be more complete today. 164 individuals hospitalized, and 151 deaths. 77,977 people have been tested. 832 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

-The Los Alamos County Public Library added video streaming to their Overdrive platform, on April 7, 2020. Patrons have access to over 16,700 video streaming titles available on most devices or smartphones with internet access. The library continues to offer eBooks and eAudiobooks on Overdrive.
To access Overdrive, you need a library card and user PIN. If you have forgotten your library card number, pin, or do not have a library card; you may contact the library Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM for assistance. We can provide your account information or register you for a temporary library card over the phone; please call 505-662-8250.
The Overdrive App is available for free at the App, Google Play, Amazon, and Windows Stores. Please contact the library if you need assistance setting-up Overdrive.
The Los Alamos County Public Library would also like to remind everyone their library card provides them access to numerous other free electronic resources including Hoopla, RB Digital, Mango Languages, and Consumer Reports. For more information, please visit www.losalamoslibrary.org or email the library at libweb@lacnm.us.

Friday May 1, 2020

As of Thursday New Mexico has 3411 cases of the corona virus, 172 individuals have been hospitalized, and 123 deaths. 67,869 people have been tested. 760 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

Despite continued spread, New Mexico as a state has begun to flatten the curve, purchasing much-needed time to ramp up our healthcare system. Because of that hard work, we are entering the "Preparation Phase" for gradual, safe reopenings.
The order allows for partial reopenings for business operations deemed non-essential to health, safety and welfare.
Non-essential retailers, beginning Friday, may provide curbside pickup and delivery services if permitted by their business license. Liquor licenses, for instance, do not allow for curbside or delivery service. Child care may now be extended to people operating non-essential businesses.
Additional changes include:
State parks may reopen on a modified day-use-only basis, as staff is available. Camping and visitor centers are still closed.
Federally licensed firearm retailers may open by appointment only as needed conduct background checks and to allow individuals to take possession of firearms ordered online.
Golf courses may open to golf only - no dine-in or retail service.
Pet services - including adoption, grooming, daycare and boarding - are permitted to operate.
Veterinarians are permitted to operate.
A separate public health order dated Thursday addresses New Mexico's June 2 primary election by allowing polling locations to open with limits. The order says no more than four voters or 20 percent of capacity may be inside a polling place at a time; mobile voting units may have no more than two voters at a time.
A third public health order allows medical facilities to gradually resume non-essential but medically necessary procedures (including ambulatory and inpatient surgery) based on extensive guidelines from the Department of Health.

Thursday April 30, 2020

As of Wednesday New Mexico has 3213 cases of the corona virus, 163 individuals have been hospitalized, and 112 deaths. 65085 people have been tested. 705 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

The Los Alamos Community Foundation, in collaboration with generous donors and community partners, announced $29,300 of Emergency Response grants to twenty regional nonprofits that have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The nonprofits receiving funding in this initial round include:
Barrios Unidos, Big Brothers Big Sisters Mountain Region, Breath of My Heart Birthplace,
Coro de Camara, Espanola YMCA Teen Center, Espanola Valley Fiber Arts Center,
Family Learning Center, Habitat for Humanity of Espanola Valley & Los Alamos, INSIDE OUT,
Las Cumbres Community Services, Los Alamos Makers, Los Alamos Visiting Nurse Service
Luciente, Moving Arts Espanola, Northern Youth Project, Self Help, Ponderosa Montessori School
Rio Arriba Adult Literacy Program, SuperHealth, The Family YMCA
Thanks to a collaborative effort with our funding partners, this first round of grant funding was able to get out the door and into the hands of some of the many nonprofits in our region that are serving important facets of our community during the pandemic. We thank our nonprofits for their work!
Funding partners that have made this grantmaking possible include: Con Alma Health Foundation, Delle Foundation, LANL Foundation, LANL/Triad National Security LLC, Newport News Nuclear BWXT Los Alamos (N3B), generous public contributions, and United Way of Northern New Mexico.
two funds have been established:
The Nonprofit Emergency Response Fund - Los Alamos prioritizes nonprofits situated in and serving Los Alamos County.
The Nonprofit Emergency Response Fund - Greatest Need prioritizes the greatest need of nonprofits situated in Rio Arriba and Los Alamos Counties.
Nonprofits severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic are encouraged to apply for an emergency response grant at www.losalamoscf.org/nonprofit-emergency-response-fund-application. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Public contributions to the funds are welcome, and can be made online or by check.
Donations can be made online through LACF's website: www.losalamoscf.org/giving/covid-19-nonprofit-emergency-response.
Cash donations may be made via check to "Los Alamos Community Foundation" and mailed to:
Los Alamos Community Foundation
P.O. Box 1225
Los Alamos, NM 8754
100% of contributions to this fund will be distributed to regional nonprofit organizations swiftly as needs arise. Funding partners are waiving all administrative fees, and covering all credit card fees. For questions, contact the Foundation at info@losalamoscf.org or 505-661-4420.

Wednesday April 29, 2020

The Los Alamos Public School Board met on Tuesday evening for a historic virtual meeting via Google Meet.
The board then recognized Leah Mountain and her efforts to pass a change in graduation policy at Los Alamos High School. Leah, a senior and active athlete at LAHS, proposed an option for Native American students to wear a traditional sash at the graduation ceremony to celebrate their culture in a respectful way. Board President Ellen Ben-Naim acknowledged Leah's ability to accomplish this policy change in a diligent manner.
The board, along with the County Council, proclaimed May "Celebrating Our Seniors Month." The Class of 2020 will be honored through a series of activities, starting this week with the distribution of yard signs to the home of each senior.
Superintendent Kurt Steinhaus updated the board on the progress of the 2020-2021 school budget which is slated to be presented during the next school board meeting. State funding is affected by the fluctuation in oil and gas prices, as well as gross receipts tax and personal income tax, all of which are seeing a downturn during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Steinhaus noted that he is part of a group of school superintendents having discussions on how to help with the state budget crisis.
The board approved a service agreement to let the School Resource Officer move a mobile home into the Los Alamos Middle School site. This service agreement, with an initial term of two years, includes an understanding that the officer will provide security for the area. Lastly, the school board agreed to give Clark and Superintendent Steinhaus authority to discuss payment options on a case-by-case basis with current tenants in anticipation that they may not be able to pay rent during this time. In the case that the tenants request some kind of relief, Clark and Steinhaus will come back to the board for guidance.
The School Board then approved the creation of a strategic growth planning committee to address the enrollment growth projected by the growth in the community triggered by LANL hiring and new housing.
The next regular school board meeting is Tuesday, May 12, 2020. The next school board work session is Thursday, May 28, 2020. Both meetings are scheduled to meet virtually.

Tuesday April 28, 2020

As of Monday New Mexico has 2823 cases of the corona virus, 155 individuals have been hospitalized, and 104 deaths. 58803 people have been tested. 666 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

Los Alamos Public Schools is pleased to announce that Dr. Brian Grass has accepted the position of Principal at Mountain Elementary School.
Dr. Grass replaces Jennifer Kieltyka who will be working in the district in another role supporting special education students.
Dr. Grass has a bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology from the University of Arizona. He earned a master's degree in Educational Leadership, and, most recently, his doctorate from the University of Southern California, completing his dissertation on full inclusion of students with Autism into general education.
He has been a school coordinator for GATE and English Language Learners and an Assistant Principal in charge of Special Education. Dr. Grass was most recently the Principal of Yorkdale Elementary in Highland Park, California. He enjoys running and hiking.
His philosophy aligns with the LAPS goal that every child will thrive. "Every child deserves to know that they are valued and loved and can achieve," Dr. Grass explained. "No child falls behind without everyone joining hands to help. Kids get only one childhood; I am here to help make it the most remarkable time that I can."

Monday April 27, 2020

As of Sunday New Mexico has 2726 cases of the corona virus but not all testing labs report on Sunday so the number will be more complete today. 148 individuals hospitalized, and 99 deaths. 56,615 people have been tested. 650 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

NM 502 will be closed near the eastern entrance to Los Alamos on Tuesday, April 28th, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The closure is needed as part of the State DOT's NM502 road reconstruction and roundabout project; crews from Star Paving will be installing a gas line across NM502. Residents living on Arroyo Lane and Verde Ridge Rd are advised to enter and exit to the east only while the closure is in place. East and west bound traffic on NM 502 will be detoured onto both 4th Street and Canyon Road on Tuesday.

Weekend

As of Saturday New Mexico has 2660 cases of the corona virus 161 individuals hospitalized, and 93 deaths. 53,735 people have been tested. 632 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

The Los Alamos Police Department is announcing that 6 additional burglaries were solved today as a result from work done by our Criminal Investigations Section.  Five Juveniles will have charges forwarded to the Office of Juvenile Probation and Parole in connection with these crimes that occurred in early April in White Rock.  Also, an additional larceny case in White Rock that was reported later was solved and was related to the five juvenile suspects. Some of the stolen property associated with these cases has been returned to the victims. 

7 of the 15 burglaries that occurred in early April have now been solved and the Los Alamos Police Department will continue to work to solve all criminal activity in Los Alamos.

The Los Alamos Police Department is continuing to follow up on leads related to the other recent burglaries and wants to remind the Public to be vigilant in contacting us on suspicious activity and visiting our link of recent surveillance footage; https://vimeo.com/user111050420

The Commercial Burglaries which occurred on March 28^th have a reward of over $2,000.00 for any information which may lead to apprehension of the suspect(s) involved. Reporting individuals may call L.A. Crime-stoppers at (505) 662-8282.

Friday April 24, 2020

As of Thursday New Mexico has 2379 cases of the corona virus 123 individuals hospitalized, and 78 deaths. 46563 people have been tested. 573 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

County Manager Harry Burgess announced the following facilities will remain closed until May 15 due to the recent order issued by Governor Michelle Lujan-Grisham:
Both public libraries, the Aquatic Center, Fuller Lodge, History Museum, Teen Center, both Youth Activity Centers, the Nature Center, Golf Course pro shop, and Fuller Lodge Art Center; all programs, classes and activities in those facilities are cancelled. The two senior centers will also continue to be closed with all programs cancelled but home meal deliveries will continue.
Additionally, the closure of the two Visitor Centers in Los Alamos and White Rock, as well as the National Park's Manhattan Project National Historical Park Visitor Center, located in the Community Building, will be extended until May 15.
Although the facilities are closed, County staff and contractors have been creatively providing alternative programming such as the Facebook page, "At Home in Los Alamos", the opening of a "Virtual Teen Center," and the public library's "Books Gone Viral Bingo". For more information about these activities, check the Los Alamos County Community Services Department Facebook page.

Thursday April 23, 2020

As of Wednesday New Mexico has 2210 cases of the corona virus 121 individuals hospitalized, and 71 deaths. 41232 people have been tested. 547 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.
The governor has extended the stay at home orders through May 15.
The governor also announced a phased kind of "reopening plan" that could start mid-May. She said right now the state is in the "preparation phase," which means we are still in a stay-at-home order phase. She created a New Mexico Economic Recovery Council consisting of 15 business executives from throughout the state. It includes Liddie Martinez from Enterprise Bank and Trust.
Currently, officials are developing what they call "COVID Safe Practices" to define how businesses will protect employees and when businesses could soon open. Phase One would require "at-risk" individuals to stay home but would allow some non-essential businesses to reopen. Phase Two will allow more businesses to reopen, but large gatherings would still be restricted which means the idea of sporting events, concerts and movies could still be months away

Wednesday April 22, 2020

As of Tuesday New Mexico has 2072 cases of the corona virus 119 individuals hospitalized, and 65 deaths. 40877 people have been tested. 529 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

The east pedestrian entrance/exit at East Park will be closed until further notice to facilitate the construction of sidewalks, Irrigation, walls and lighting. The work is part of the NM DOT's construction of the NM502 roundabout on the eastern edge of Los Alamos. Work by Star Paving is underway and extends from Tewa Loop to the park's driveway. The park is still open for use by the public. Visitors should use the west entrance/exit into the parking lot and avoid the construction area along the roadway.

Tuesday April 21, 2020

As of Monday New Mexico has 1971 cases of the corona virus 116 individuals hospitalized, and 58 deaths. 38755 people have been tested. 501 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

The New Mexico Public Education Department has been told to stop diverting millions of dollars in federal Impact Aid grants designated for specific school districts.
The decades-old program provides funding for districts nationwide to offset property tax losses from tribal lands, military bases, national forests and other tax-exempt federal lands within their boundaries, according to the Santa Fe New Mexican.
The newspaper reports the state essentially has redistributed much of that aid - over $63 million in 2019 - and U.S. Department of Education has determined New Mexico wasn't meeting an equity measurement required to redistribute federal aid.
Districts need the federal Impact Aid money to build and maintain facilities because they can't raise enough construction funds through property taxes.
Under federal law, the difference in per-student spending between the public district or charter school with the highest rate in the state and the one with the lowest must not exceed 25 percent.
Impact Aid Program Director Marilyn Hall said fiscal year 2018 numbers show the Carlsbad Unified School District's per-student spending was $7,438 while the Socorro Independent School District's rate was $5,731 - a difference of nearly 30%.
Hall said that because of the disparity, New Mexico isn't eligible to consider Impact Aid grants when determining state funding to districts.
Spokeswoman Nancy Martira said State Public Education Department officials "are still in the beginning of understanding how this finding may affect all New Mexico school districts."

Monday April 20. 2020

As of Sunday New Mexico has 1845 cases of the corona virus but due to a technical glitch it is a partial total. The rest will be included in today's numbers released at about 4 pm. 103 individuals hospitalized, and 55 deaths. 37,042 people have been tested. 487 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

Motorists traveling on DP Rd will notice an increase in construction activity as geotechnical testing near the roadway begins for property that will become housing for seniors known as "The Bluffs," the second housing project moving forward from Bethel Development, Inc. Workers core-drilling various locations in order to extract soil samples on the property located on the southwestern edge of DP Rd will be visible to the public. The sampling is a standard pre-construction activity for soils testing and analysis prior to building homes.
As a precautionary safety measure, the County has worked with DOE/NNSA over the last month and they will provide Radiological Control Technicians available nearby with the ability to conduct radiological surveys. DOE/NNSA will be prepared to support geotechnical testing efforts with their own geologists on site and sample technicians to run radiological surveys. These additional steps are being taken for the safety of workers and the public after a radiological incident that occurred mid-February on a separate property located further east on DP Rd for a lift station sewer infrastructure being installed to serve Canyon Walk Apartments.
In addition, workers will have heavy equipment in the northwestern edge of County property near the entrance of DP Rd, where crews will be clearing and grubbing materials and vegetation for laydown yards and project staging for The Bluffs. Pedestrians using the Canyon Rim Trail are asked to use caution in this area.

Work on Canyon Walk Apartments' sewer infrastructure and lift station is expected to resume in two weeks and further information will be provided to businesses on DP Rd and the community. Electric crews from the Department of Public Utilities will be in the area working on infrastructure for that housing project.

Friday April 17, 2020

As of 4 pm Thursday New Mexico has 1597 cases of the corona virus, 90 individuals hospitalized, and 44 deaths. 34,488 people have been tested. 353 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

Roman Catholic diocese in New Mexico announced Wednesday it will reopen churches and allow a small number of people to attend public celebrations of Mass in what could be the first move to alter a diocese-declared ban on public services in the U.S.
Priests were encouraged to hold public Mass at Las Cruces Diocese parishes while having parishioners abide by social distancing restrictions ordered by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, diocese spokesman Christopher Velasquez said.
That means churches can only hold Mass with five or less people in attendance and they must stay 6 feet apart, Velasquez said.
The diocese also announced it would allow priests to hold outdoor Mass services while people stay in their cars.
Baldacchino is the first U.S. bishop known to have amended a previously declared diocesan ban on public Masses since the coronavirus pandemic took hold of the U.S. last month.
The bishop also made provision for priests to resume weddings and funerals in accordance with state regulations on social distancing and granted permission for them to be held outside on Church property for the duration of the pandemic.

Thursday April 16, 2020

As of 4 pm Wednesday New Mexico has 1484 cases of the corona virus, 90 individuals hospitalized, and 36 deaths. 33,394 people have been tested. 353 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

From April 15 through June 30, campfires are prohibited on all five national forests in New Mexico and national grasslands on the Cibola in Oklahoma and Texas.
Forest Service officials are taking necessary steps to ensure first responders are available to safely respond to and manage incidents. This campfire restriction will prevent the drawdown of fire and medical resources to human-caused wildfires and reduce firefighter exposure to COVID-19 during the current pandemic.
The April 15 campfire restriction order prohibits igniting, building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, including charcoal grills and barbecues, coal and wood burning stoves. Forest visitors are allowed to use pressurized liquid or gas stoves, grills or lanterns with shut-off valves as long as they are at least three feet from any flammable materials.
Violating the campfire restriction may result in an appearance in federal court, fines, and possible time in jail.
While these restrictions are in place, the majority of the five national forests in New Mexico are still open for dispersed camping - outside of developed campsites - and other recreation opportunities. Visit the SFNF Interactive Visitor Map for more information on available activities and closed sites.

Wednesday April 15, 2020

As of 5 pm Tuesday New Mexico has 1407 cases of the corona virus, 82 individuals hospitalized, and 36 deaths. 32850 people have been tested. 340 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 6 cases.

The New Mexico Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered state and local election authorities to distribute absentee ballot applications to all registered voters while rejecting a petition to scale back in-person voting in response to the coronavirus.
The court ruled unanimously in rejecting a petition from a majority of county clerks to send ballots without request to nearly all registered voters and scuttle traditional in-person voting in the June 2 primary.
The pace of coronavirus infections in New Mexico is expected to peak in late May under recent modeling presented by state health officials. That puts the pandemic on a collision course with New Mexico's primary, amid a state-by-state partisan legal fight over how voters can safely cast their ballots if the coronavirus outbreak persists into the November election.
In-person voting and early voting must comply with the governor's executive orders and Health Department orders relating to the pandemic, the court ruled. A stay-at-home order that bans public gathering of more than five people expires on April 30 but is likely to be extended, according to Matthew Garcia, an attorney for Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham.

Tuesday April 14, 2020

As of 4 pm Monday New Mexico has 1345 cases of the corona virus, 87 individuals hospitalized, and 31 deaths. 31,970  people have been tested. 304 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 5 cases.

Upcoming Budget Hearings, Format
Los Alamos, New Mexico- Budget hearings are set for April 20, 21, 27 and 28. All hearings begin at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers. The format will be the same format used for the March 31 and April 7 council meetings that complies with the recent New Mexico Department of Health's public emergency order governing mass gathering because of COVID-19. Public in-person attendance will not be allowed. Minimal County staff will be in attendance in person to present their proposed budget items and all Councilors will be participating using the Zoom conference platform. Members of the public interested in watching the budget hearings can view the agenda and live stream the meeting from home using a link from the Los Alamos county website located on the county council page.
The hearings will also be broadcast live on cable television on PAC-8, the local community station.
It is expected that the Council may make adjustments to the budget based on the COVID-19 emergency; the budget was developed prior to the pandemic.
Until the Council adopts the budget, it is still open for discussion and change.
Council will reserve the first thirty minutes of each hearing for public comment on any portion of the proposed budget.
Citizens can submit comments in two ways:
1. Send U.S. mail to County Manager Harry Burgess, 1000 Central Avenue, Ste 350, Los Alamos, NM 87544
2. E-Mail comments to lacmanager@lacnm.us in advance and include the words "Public Comment" in the subject line; this e-mail will be monitored during the first 30 minutes of each hearing and those received will be read into the record in lieu of in-person attendance.

Monday April 13, 2020

As of 4 pm Sunday New Mexico has 1245 cases of the corona virus, 80 individuals hospitalized, and 26 deaths. 30,515 people have been tested. 295 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 5 cases.

Main Gate Park on the eastern edge of Los Alamos, as well as White Rock's RV Park next to the Visitor Center, have undergone changes limiting RV parking spaces to comply with the amended Public Health Emergency order issued by the Governor.
Parks crews have placed "do not use" cones at Main Gate Park (leaving two spaces) and the White Rock RV Park (leaving three spaces) in order to meet the requirements to keep both parks below 25 percent of maximum occupancy. Additional signage about the order has been placed at the pay station at the White Rock park to inform visitors of the reason for the restrictions.

Saturday April 11, 2020

As of 4 pm Saturday New Mexico has 1174 cases of the corona virus, 78 individuals hospitalized, and 20 deaths. 28,692 people have been tested. 235 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 4 cases.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced Saturday that houses of worship must now abide by a public health order banning mass gatherings to mitigate COVID-19 spread. Houses of worship were previously exempt from the public health emergency order banning mass gatherings, defined as five or more people in a single confined space. That order was amended Saturday. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, many New Mexico congregations had already canceled in-person services before the amended order.

Friday April 10, 2020

As of yesterday New Mexico has 989 cases of the corona virus, 73 individuals hospitalized, and 17 deaths. 23,931 people have been tested. 217 people have recovered. Los Alamos has 4 cases.

- The statewide gas price average in New Mexico is $1.86 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA New Mexico Weekend Gas Watch. That price is seven cents less than on this day last week and 70 cents less per gallon than on this day last year. The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $1.89, which is eight cents less compared to this day last week and 86 cents less than the price per gallon at this same time last year.
On the week, pump prices continued to push less expensive with gasoline demand registering at its lowest point since spring of 1968. The latest Energy Information Administration (EIA) weekly report puts demand at nearly 5.1 million barrels per day - a nearly 52-year low - and it's likely to push lower as Americans are urged to stay at home.

Thursday April 9, 2020

The Los Alamos Police Department is announcing that one burglary from the Quemazon area on April 1st was solved yesterday as a result from work done by our Criminal Investigations Section, and assistance from the Community. Three Juveniles will have charges forwarded to the Office of Juvenile Probation and Parole in connection with this crime. All property associated with this case has been returned to the victim.
The Los Alamos Police Department is continuing to follow up on leads related to the other recent burglaries and wants to remind the Public to be vigilant in contacting us on suspicious activity and visiting our link of recent surveillance footage; https://vimeo.com/user111050420
The Commercial Burglaries which occurred on March 28th have a reward of over $2,000.00 for any information which may lead to apprehension of the suspect(s) involved.
All other burglaries have a reward of up to $500.00. Reporting individuals may call L.A. Crime-stoppers at (505) 662-8282.

Wednesday April 8, 2020

-Los Alamos County would like to remind residents using County parks, trails and other open spaces of the importance of maintaining social distancing within these areas as much as possible. Mass gatherings are still prohibited as outlined in the State of New Mexico's executive order. No more than five individuals should be gathered in parks or using trails. County Parks' crews have installed signage about social distancing and mass gatherings in parks.
"Voluntary compliance with the executive order will help us keep our parks open for all to enjoy," said Beverley Simpson, Emergency Manager, "at a time when other counties are closing parks, we would like to be able to keep ours available. We understand the need for residents to get outside and enjoy some fresh air, but we need to follow the Governor's orders, too."
Residents are also reminded that County Code, Chapter 6 regarding Animals states that animals that are off the owner's premises need to be on a leash

Tuesday April 7, 2020

- Los Alamos County Public Works - Traffic & Streets, will begin a pavement preservation project along North and South San Ildefonso Road and on North Mesa Road.
Work hours will be Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Work is anticipated to be completed by the end of April, weather permitting.
A flagging operation will be used to move vehicles safely through the work zone. Vehicle traffic is urged to slow down and obey all traffic control devices.
Questions or concerns regarding this project may be sent to Scott Halder, Los Alamos County Streets Superintendent at (505) 663-1937 or scott.halder@lacnm.us

New Mexico has 686 cases of Covid-19 and the death toll remains at 12. 21,825 people have been tested. 133 people have recovered.
President Donald Trump has signed off on a federal disaster declaration for New Mexico, freeing up funding to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts.
The declaration allows the state to start asking for federal dollars up front - up to 50% - for approved projects to help with the response efforts.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has issued a series of public health orders aimed at getting people to stay home to curb the spread. On Monday, she extended closures of non-essential businesses until April 30 and further limited the number of people who could be inside supermarkets, hardware stores and other businesses to 20% of the maximum capacity. Liquor stores have closed, and car dealerships can only sell on line.
The amended public health order also says lodging facilities, including RV parks, cannot operate at more than 25% maximum capacity, down from 50%.
At the end of March, the environment department conducted more than 100 inspections of restaurants and food establishments that are operating under new rules. Most were complying.

Monday April 6,2020

Online registration for Kindergarten for 2020-2021 at Aspen, Barranca, Chamisa, Mountain, and Piñon Elementary will be available on Monday, April 6, 2020 through the Los Alamos Public Schools' website. Registration is an important step to ensure that your child is placed in a kindergarten class for the upcoming school year.
To enroll your child, simply visit the LAPS Registration page at laschools.net/registration. From the Registration page, choose the Kindergarten tab to begin the application.
Children who turn five before 12:01 a.m. on Sept. 1, 2020, are eligible to be enrolled in kindergarten for the 2020-2021 school year. The first day of school is August 13, 2020.
In addition, the applications for the NM PreK Lottery will also open on Monday, April 6, 2020. We currently have a NM PreK program at Piñon elementary. We hope to receive funding to offer additional NM PreK programs in Los Alamos for the 2020-2021 school year. There is a maximum enrollment based on available funding so applications will be entered into a lottery for acceptance into the program. The lottery opens at 8:00 a.m. and will be accessible at laschools.net. Lottery selection will be made in June 2020.

For questions or more information, please contact Sandra Osborn at s.osborn@laschools.net or 505-663-2228.

Friday April 3, 2020

The Los Alamos Police Department wants the Los Alamos Public to be aware that there have been 15 victims of burglaries within the last 6 days.

On March 27th on North Mesa there was one victim of an auto burglary where the suspect used a stolen credit card and we have uploaded a video to the link provided below.  LAPD Investigations section believes the vehicle to be 2013 White Honda Civic 2-door. Anyone with information related to this suspect may be eligible for up to a $500.00 reward.

In the early morning hours of March 28th seven local businesses were burglarized, the reward for information leading to the arrest of these suspects is $1850.00.

In the early morning hours of April 1st there was a vehicle burglary in the Quemazon neighborhood.  There is a $500.00 reward for information leading to the arrest of these suspects.

Also, in the early morning hours of April 1st there were five vehicle burglaries and one residential burglary in the White Rock area.  We have uploaded a video to our link that shows five juvenile suspects.  The suspects were on foot and a bike early that morning.  The suspects were targeting unlocked vehicles and unsecured homes.  We ask anyone with information on this group of juveniles to call LA crime-stoppers and there is a $500.00 reward.

Please visit our link at: https://vimeo.com/user111050420 to see the videos

Tips can be made at (505) 662-8282.

"The Los Alamos Police Department has increased patrols. We will be placing crime alert cards on any residence, vehicle, or business that is unsecured to warn and remind citizens to secure their property and remove valuables from sight and access."

"Also, any suspicious vehicle or group will be stopped and investigated by our officers.  Especially, late at night.  We want to ask parents of teenagers to monitor and be aware of your children's where-a-bouts in the evening."

"The Los Alamos Police Department is aggressively patrolling in the evenings.  Last night, a felon was apprehended by patrol officers in possession of a firearm and in possession of illicit drugs."

"Two separate groups of teenagers were also located by officers last night. Individuals in one group were in possession of alcohol and the other group had individuals in possession of marijuana."

"It is imperative that our community stays safe during this Public Health Emergency, and we can do so by partnering together."

Thursday April 2, 2020

- As of March 13, 2020, officials with the Los Alamos Department of Public Utilities suspended shutting utility services off to customers for non-payment due to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency.  Board of Public Utilities members agreed at the March 25 meeting and directed the DPU staff to continue this practice until the New Mexico Department of Health COVID-19 Order is lifted.

"We still encourage customers to try and keep up with utility bills," stated Utilities Manager Philo Shelton.  However, for customers who are experiencing difficulty paying utility bills, he adds that the Customer Care Center is available to discuss options, including possible financial assistance programs. 

Shelton also reminded more fortunate customers to consider donating to the Utility Assistance Program.  The UAP program is administered by the DPU and is used to assist qualifying customers who are experiencing difficulty paying utility bills.  One hundred percent of money donated is used to help qualifying customers. Contact the Customer Care Center for details on how to donate to the UAP to assist Los Alamos customers in need.

The Customer Care Center is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. by phone or email:  505.662.8333 or CustomerCare@lacnm.us

Wednesday April 1, 2020

As of yesterday the state had Updated New Mexico COVID-19 cases: Now at 315 with 5 deaths and 26 recoveries. Los Alamos has no confirmed cases. Infections statewide are doubling roughly every 3.5 days - a slower rate than major urban hot-spots, health officials said. To help slow the spread of infection, health officials are expanding testing to asymptomatic people who come into close contact or live with people who have tested positive. Nursing home residents or people who have congregated in large groups also are eligible

Tuesday March 31, 2020

March 31 Council meeting: format changes due to COVID-19
The Los Alamos County Council meeting scheduled in Council Chambers on Tuesday, March 31 at 6:00 p.m. will be using a format that complies with the recent New Mexico Department of Health's public health emergency order governing mass gatherings because of COVID-19.
Public in-person attendance Tuesday evening will not be allowed. Minimal County staff will be in attendance to present items and most Councilors will be participating by phone. The agenda has been streamlined to focus on time-sensitive matters. Members of the public interested in watching the meeting can view the agenda and live-stream the meeting from home using this link and accessing the meeting tonight:
http://losalamos.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx
The meeting will also be broadcast live on cable television on PAC-8, the local community station.
The County encourages public comment via e-mail at lacmanager@lacnm.us. Citizens are asked to type PUBLIC COMMENT in the subject line of the e-mail. Within the body of the e-mail, individuals should include a name, address, whether the comment pertains to a specific item on the agenda, and the comment. Public comments about items will be accepted prior to the meeting, to be read into the meeting at the appropriate time. In addition, the e-mail address will be monitored during the meeting for comments to be received during the live proceedings and read into the record when the Chair calls for public comment.

Monday March 30, 2020

On Saturday March 28^th between 1am and 2am several Los Alamos businesses were targeted in a spree of burglaries.

The following businesses were burglarized;

China Palace Restaurant

Daniel’s Cafe

GRACIE BARRA Los Alamos Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Petree Garden Center and Florist

Subway

Top Nails & Spa

Viola’s restaurant

The suspects utilized a light in color 4-door sedan with a sunroof. The suspects also stole a white van belonging to the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu business.  A suspect driving the stolen van used it as a battering ram to access several of the businesses causing extensive damage.  The van was recovered outside Los Alamos County and the above businesses mentioned are reporting thefts from inside their establishments.

Two Los Alamos police officers responded to the Subway restaurant within minutes of the front of the business being destroyed.  The suspects left the area using the stolen van and suspect vehicle.  The Los Alamos police department has created a link of several surveillance footage feeds that we are asking the public to view.  LAPD is offering a $250.00 reward for anyone who may identify the suspects or the suspect vehicle.  Caller can call L.A. Crime stoppers at (505) 662-8282.  Callers may remain anonymous.

https://vimeo.com/user111050420

Weekend  March 28, 2020

Public Education Department Sec. Ryan Stewart, Indian Affairs Department Sec. Lynn Trujillo, Child Youth & Families Sec. Brian Blalock, and Early Childhood Education & Care Sec. Elizabeth Groginsky held a joint teleconference Friday morning to announce that K-12 schools in New Mexico will remain closed through the end of the current academic year..
Stewart said the department have been collaborating with the governor’s office and health officials monitoring the COVID-19 virus spread and ever since PED had to announce the temporary closure a few weeks ago. He said they were hoping they would see clear signs that it would be safe to return to normal operations on April 6.

He said the decision is in line with CDC guidance which suggests that longer closures are needed to stop the spread.

He said the announcement is not being taken lightly and has a tremendous impact on families and communities.

Dear LAPS Parents and Families

In light of the PED Secretary’s announcement today that “there is a strong likelihood that school will be closed for the remainder of the year”, we have a plan to help you and your children.  It is called innovative LA learning. The idea is to keep the minds of LAPS students engaged with creative, age-appropriate and constructive activities. While this is a time of uncertainty and challenge, it is a moment in history filled with unlimited opportunities for new learning. In fact, the amazing LAPS staff have already come up with constructive ways to work from home while being productive and sharing joy and humor.

innovative LA learning uses creative solutions and flexibility to help students meet important learning goals. The teaching will include lessons that are shared with students synchronously and asynchronously.

Timeline

March 23-27: While teachers and principals were on Spring Break, district leadership worked on 1) planning for remote learning and technology support; 2) reviewing strategies in the LAPS Healthy Schools Initiative, 3) contacting families that need help with internet access and computing devices, 4) updating websites, and 5) collecting learning resources for teachers, parents and students.

March 30-April 3: LAPS staff will be 1) developing additional learning strategies and roll-out details, 2) providing professional development for staff, 3) developing additional communications, 4) beginning one-on-one checking in with students and families and 5) distributing learning packets and computing devices to parents, as needed.

April 6: Begin daily implementation of innovative LA learning with these suggestions for daily student time: 

• Pre-K: 30 minutes on developmentally appropriate learning activities, 15 minutes listening to a story
• Grades K-1: 45 minutes on developmentally appropriate learning activities, 20 minutes listening to stories
• Grades 2-3: 60 minutes on developmentally appropriate learning activities, 20 minutes reading
• Grades 4-6: 90 minutes on lessons including specials - art, music and library, 30 minutes reading
• Grades 7-12: 30 minutes per teacher (3 hours max in a day)                               

It’s Not All About Screens - Social emotional learning is even more important during this shift to more learning time at home. It can be easy for students to spend a lot of time in front of screens. As much as possible, we will provide students with tasks that get them up and moving and away from their devices. We will also make adjustments based upon Maslo's Hierarchy of Needs. If a student is worried about safety and food, it will be very difficult for them to concentrate on school work.

Teacher and Principal Office Hours - In addition to asynchronous and live classes, our  principals and teachers will post times for daily office hours. This enables students and parents to contact their teacher for help as they’re doing their schoolwork, and it helps our teachers maintain regular schedules.

These are exceptional times that require patience and understanding from students, parents, staff and community members. We are going to be gentle with ourselves and students, forgiving, and adjust along the way. We are a continuous improvement school district. Keeping the learning going at home requires major adjustments for teachers and students. Knowing the LAPS staff, we will rise to the challenge. Next week, please watch for communications from your school principal and teachers.  

Friday March 27, 2020

Beginning Monday, March 30, Chartwells and Los Alamos Public Schools will begin serving free breakfast along with free lunch as part of the Free Emergency Meals program for any child 18 and under. Meals will be packaged together for one single distribution. Single pick up times are Monday through Friday from 11 am - 1 pm at Aspen Elementary, and 12 pm - 1 pm at Chamisa and Piñon Elementary Schools.
Volunteers have been distributing free lunches since March 16. Since the program started, an average of 205 lunches have been handed out.

Thursday March 26, 2020

Water crews with the Los Department of Public Utilities (DPU) will drop the east northbound lane on Diamond Dr. just past the Sandia intersection to repair a water transmission line. Work is scheduled for Thursday, Mar. 26 from 7:30 a.m. until 7 p.m. No interruption of water services is anticipated.
Motorists should expect some delays and are urged to use caution when driving near the construction zone. DPU officials thank the public for its patience during this time.

Wednesday March 25, 2020

The Los Alamos Community Foundation is committed to helping our community's nonprofit organizations now more than ever during these unprecedented times. No matter what their mission, all of our nonprofits will be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. And all of these organizations need additional resources.
Some of our nonprofits have had to cancel their largest fundraising events of the year. Some are ramping up their capacity to continue serving on the front lines of our community's needs. Others are dealing with an overall decline in revenue from many of their regular income sources, including the sales of tickets, goods, and fee for services.
If you can afford to support our nonprofits financially, now is the time to.
Allow us to make two suggestions for your philanthropy:
1. Give directly to your favorite organization. If there is a nonprofit whose services you use regularly, or whose work you particularly appreciate, make a contribution to them directly, as soon as possible. Send a check in the mail, or give through their website. Make your gift as unrestricted as possible, to allow that organization to put the funds to use how they need it most.
2. If you want to help but aren't sure how or where to give, we have you covered. LACF has created two Nonprofit Emergency Response Funds. One fund is focused on supporting nonprofits that are located in or serving Los Alamos County, the other fund is for the greatest need of nonprofits located in Rio Arriba and Los Alamos Counties. For more details, visit our website:
https://www.losalamoscf.org/giving/covid-19-nonprofit-emergency-response/
LACF is seeding these emergency response funds with a contribution of $5,000. We are waiving all administrative fees, and covering all credit card fees, so that 100% of your contribution will go directly to the nonprofit community.
Please consider giving to an organization that you know is in need, and consider making a contribution to one of the Nonprofit Emergency Response Funds. The Los Alamos Community Foundation will ensure that the funding gets out the door as soon as possible, and into the hands of those who are best equipped to put it to good use.

Tuesday March 24, 2020

Yesterday Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has announced a sweeping new public health order that aims to keep most residents at home, prohibits public gatherings of more than five people and halts nonessential business activity that can't be done from remotely, in efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
The governor said the new restrictions, which take effect this morning, are the rough equivalent of a shelter-in-place order, carried out through the administration's authority to limit private and public business activity.
The announcement marked a sharp change in tone by the governor, who said too many people were engaging in unnecessary, risky social interactions that could lead to a spike in coronavirus infections that might overwhelm the health care system and make it impossible to attend to acute cases with respiratory problems.
Positive tests increased to 83 cases, with nine hospitalizations and three people that are experiencing acute respiratory problems requiring ventilator equipment. The contagion is spreading in Albuquerque and Santa Fe on its own without links to travel and outside infection. As of Monday New Mexico had a total of 83 positive tests for COVID-19 with the following breakdown by county.
Bernalillo County: 38
Doña Ana County: 10
Lea County: 1
McKinley County: 2
Sandoval County: 7
San Juan County: 3
San Miguel County: 1
Santa Fe County: 12
Socorro County: 2
Taos County: 3
Chaves County: 4
The agency reports that given the infectious nature of the virus it is likely other residents are infected but yet to be tested or confirmed positive. To that end, additional restrictions enacted by order of the secretary of health Thursday are intended to aggressively minimize person-to-person contact and ensure spread is mitigated by social distancing and isolation. Certain businesses are mandated closed; others have been instructed to limit operations. New Mexicans are strongly urged to limit travel to only what is necessary for health, safety and welfare.
The New Mexico Department of Health has active investigations into the positive patients, which includes contact-tracing and swabs of symptomatic individuals who have had contact with the positive cases.

Here is message from out LAPS superintendent Dr. Kurt Steinhaus delivered yesterday after the Governor's press conference.
While students are on Spring Break, we are developing a plan to expand age-appropriate learning activities, provide needed computing devices and to check-in with students. We will:
Provide meaningful learning experiences that connect to students' home lives, interests, and identities;
Leverage the assets of home-based learning, rather than trying to recreate school; and
Support learning that is relevant to our students with resources that are available at home and with meaningful family engagement, when possible.
We are using telephone calls and email surveys to identify students who do not have internet connectivity. If you do not have internet access in your home, please call 505-663-2227. Leave your name, your student's name, and the best number to reach you.
Students without an internet connection or a computing device will be contacted with offers of assistance.
Our goal is equity for all students.

Monday March 23, 2020

North Road at the intersection of Diamond Drive remains closed due to a water break that occurred Thursday morning. Traffic to and from Quemazon is rerouted on Sycamore. Other traffic impacts include a southbound lane drop on Diamond which includes the closure of the bike lane and sidewalk on the west side of Diamond. Temporary repairs are estimated to be complete by early this week.
According to Traffic and Streets Division Manager Juan Rael, county crews made progress on repairing this section of Diamond and North Rd. However, due to the severity of the break and the amount of erosion that occurred, additional repairs are needed before the county can open up this section of road again.
Repairs to the area will continue into early this week. Permanent repairs to the waterline will be scheduled by DPU crews in the spring. Motorists should expect some delays and are urged to use caution when driving near the construction zone.

Weekend March 21, 2020

While toilet paper may be in short supply in many stores, citizens may be tempted to use other products. “Don’t do it,” is the warning from the Los Alamos Department of Public Utilities (DPU). 

Flushable wipes, baby wipes, wet wipes, moist towelettes may all claim on the packaging that they are safe to flush down the toilet, but only toilet paper won’t clog sewer lines, according to Deputy Manager Jack Richardson. “These products don’t disintegrate, which leads to sewer back-ups that are costly and a hazard to public health.”

Other items that should not be flushed include:

·        Feminine products

·        Dental Floss

·        Q-tips or Cotton Balls

·        Diapers

·        Condoms

·        Paper Towels or Tissues

·        Cigarette butts

·        Pills

Friday March 20, 2020

UNM-LA to Close Campus Buildings and Operate Remotely
In response to guidance from UNM President Stokes, information from government officials, and the current situation, the UNM-LA campus will close campus buildings, but remain "open" with employees working from home.
All operations will be handled remotely using phone, email, and online technology. UNM-LA classes, and student services, will continue but with a different delivery system. This complete shift to remote operations becomes effective at 5 p.m. Thursday, March 19 and will continue until further notice.
Campus buildings and facilities will be locked and secured until further notice. No public access will be available, but authorized employees will be allowed limited access on an as-needed basis in the coming weeks.
Our continued goal is to create a safe and healthy place for our community and an environment for our students to learn, innovate, and achieve.
Rooney commented on the process of UNM decision making, "We are all striving to maintain social distance and 'flatten the curve,' as we also attempt to remain calm during chaos, adaptable during change, and united during times of uncertainty."
Students and employees are reminded to check your UNM email regularly for updates and guidance.

Thursday March 19, 2020

New Mexico Health Secretary Kathy Kunkel will strengthen her previously issued public health order to include additional mandatory closures and guidelines to stem the spread of COVID-19 in New Mexico.

The new public health emergency order, which will take effect Thursday, March 19, prohibits gatherings of more than 10 people. The order  will be signed tomorrow,

The order mandates the following:

Restaurants, bars, breweries, eateries and other food establishments must close to dine-in customers; take-out and home delivery are permitted
Indoor shopping malls must close
Recreational facilities, health clubs and resort spas must close
Theaters must close, including movie theaters
Flea markets must close
Important stipulations within the order include:

Typical business environments that are not engaged in the provision of an essential service should limit operations to the greatest extent possible and minimize employee contact.
“Typical business environments” are defined as businesses, governmental organizations, political subdivisions and other entities engaged in commercial, industrial, charitable or professional activities.
Hotels, motels and other places of lodging shall not operate at more than 50 percent of maximum occupancy. This restriction does not apply to operations providing lodging to health care workers who are engaged in the provision of care to New Mexico residents or those businesses providing temporary housing to individuals employed and working in New Mexico.
In addition to the above stipulations, these places are exempt from the order and may remain open:
Grocery stores and pharmacies
Shelters
Courthouses
Banks
Correction and detention facilities
Hospitals and other health-care facilities
Places of worship (during regular hours)
Restaurants with exterior entrances that are situated in shopping malls may offer delivery and takeout services.
ON HOARDING: The order, in an effort to limit hoarding, directs grocery stores and other retailers to limit the sale of over-the-counter medications, durable medical equipment, baby formula, diapers, sanitary care products and hygiene products to three packaged items per individual.

INTENT: The new public health order is a means of temporarily limiting person-to-person contact in New Mexico. The order should be construed narrowly; the overriding guidance to New Mexicans is to avoid contact with others in all scenarios except those essential to public health, safety and welfare.

The order is in effect until April 10, 2020, but can be extended as needed.

Wednesday March 18, 2020

Los Alamos County announced additional plans for limiting the impact of COVID-19. These plans address County employees and provision of services.
Beginning Wednesday, March 18:
1. Employees providing essential services who have the ability to work from home (telecommute) are being given assigned work and County-issued laptops. Department Directors have identified employees that fall within this category, including any employee who may be at higher health risk if they contract COVID-19.
2. Employees providing essential services who have a job that requires them to be in the field, such as public safety or utilities' workers, will report to work as scheduled.
3. All other employees who provide non-essential services, as defined and determined by Department Directors and with approval from the County Manager, will remain at home. They will be on special Emergency Paid Leave status, must be in contact with their Supervisor daily, and could be recalled to work at any time.
Customer service windows within County facilities will be closed to over-the-counter transactions and information about how to interact with County employees will be provided via phone or e-mail. Individuals should not travel to County facilities without first phoning the department they wish to visit to inquire about their current level of services, restrictions on visits, and any other information they can share about their transaction. In many cases, services are available on-line and members of the public will be directed to these resources. If an in-person visit is urgent and necessary, an appointment will be scheduled by phone or e-mail.
Burgess said the County will continue to monitor the rapidly evolving situation with COVID-19 and make further adjustments to services, hours of operation, or other considerations as needed. He asked for the community to support these additional steps taken with the County's workforce as much as possible.

Tuesday March 17, 2020

Including the above additional cases, New Mexico has now had a total of 21 positive tests for COVID-19 after 1270 tests.
Bernalillo County: 14
Sandoval County: 2
Santa Fe County: 3
Socorro County: 2
The New Mexico Department of Health has active investigations into each of the positive patients, which includes contact-tracing and swabs of symptomatic individuals who have had contact with the positive cases.
The Department of Health and the governor encourage all New Mexicans to practice social distancing procedures: stay home, particularly if you are sick.
Every New Mexican must work together to stem the spread of COVID-19.
New Mexicans who report symptoms of COVID-19 infection, such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath, should call their health care provider or the NMDOH COVID-19 hotline immediately (1-855-600-3453).
People without those symptoms do not need to be tested for COVID-19. This is allergy season, and allergy symptoms such as sneezing or itchy eyes, nose or throat do not indicate a need for testing. 

Monday March 16, 2020

the total number of positive COVID-19 tests in New Mexico - 17 as of Monday morning.
Los Alamos County Council Chair Scott provided updates Sunday morning regarding the County's policies for limiting the impact of COVID-19.
1. Additional closures of frequently used public historic and recreational facilities.
County Manager Harry Burgess said that Community Services staff will be working today on implementing closure plans for the following facilities, which will take effect tomorrow (Monday, March 16):
Both public libraries, the Aquatic Center, Fuller Lodge, History Museum, Teen Center, both Youth Activity Centers, the Nature Center, Golf Course pro shop, and Fuller Lodge Art Center; all programs, classes and activities in those facilities are cancelled. The two senior centers will be closed with all programs cancelled but home meal deliveries will continue. Also, lunch meals will be provided via drive through as was implemented on Friday. The Senior Center will still provide transportation to medical appointments and delivery items such as prescriptions. Individuals should contact the Senior Center directly for these services.
Additionally, the two Visitor Centers in Los Alamos and White Rock, as well as the National Park's Manhattan Project National Historical Park Visitor Center, located in the Community Building, will all be closed beginning Monday.
Burgess said the closures will be in alignment with the Schools closures, which remain in place until April 6, unless otherwise modified.
Burgess further stated that Community Services staff and those organizations under contract to operate certain County facilities, such as the Nature Center and Fuller Lodge Art Center, would still be at work this week. "I've asked our Staff and contractors to use this time to do some deep cleaning within each facility, as well as consider creative options to provide alternative programming or delivery of services," he said.
2) Ask local organizations, even those exempt from Governor Lujan's list, to discontinue meetings and other programming as health care professionals continue to monitor the progression of the pandemic.
3) Emphasize to the community the importance of self-isolation efforts in compliance with those provided in the NM Department of Health Website (cv.nmhealth.org); the County urges anyone returning from out of state to read and follow these guidelines. In particular, "that individuals who have traveled outside of the state be in self-isolation for a period of 14 calendar days." The County will continue public outreach encouraging the community to review these and other recommendations on the CDC website, which is frequently updated.
Scott reiterated the State Department of Health's message that any individual who thinks they may have been infected with the Coronavirus should call the Coronavirus emergency hotline at 855-600-3453 rather than going into a clinic or doctor's office.
Burgess agreed with Scott and urged the community to be vigilant with good hygiene and voluntary compliance to stay home and avoid large gatherings.
"Practice social distancing of six feet, cover your mouth and nose if you sneeze or cough, and don't travel unless it's absolutely necessary.
Although community facilities are closing, Burgess said that parks and trails will remain open.
County crews will be diligent in making sure that facilities in those areas, such as public restrooms, are kept clean, along with frequent trash pick-up.
In addition, Atomic City Transit buses will continue to provide public transit and Dial-A-Ride services without further reduction in services at this time. ACT suspended express routes last week - these routes primarily served the after-school population on weekdays - and the change was made in alignment with School closures. However, Burgess said bus service may be re-evaluated in the future with the potential for further adjustments to be made.
"We encourage individuals who need to transact business with the County to do so by phone or using on-line services," he said,
Scott said that Burgess and his staff will continue to provide more detailed operational information as spread of the Coronavirus is a rapidly evolving situation. She encouraged residents to review information posted by the County using the new "quick link" on its website (https://www.losalamosnm.us/).
Scott asked the community to pull together during this time of national crisis.
"This is the time where our community has and will need to continue to show how much we care for each other including reaching out to those who might need additional assistance," . Again, don't forget to take care of yourselves, stay connected, take a walk outside, and show extra kindness - we're Los Alamos!"

Sunday March 15, 2020

While the Betty Ehart and White Rock Senior Centers were notified by the County today, that their buildings will close for the short term. The senior center food and transportation services remain operational. A daily drive thru, pick up lunch can be reserved at each center and leaving a message, by 10am. The drive thru lunch will be available from 12pm to 1pm. White Rock is 672-2034 and Los Alamos is 662-8920. The Home Delivered Meal program continues as usual, and more people will be added to the routes as the week progresses.
Those wishing to make donations can leave items in boxes by the entry way. Items include easy to make meals, boxes milk or juice, individual bars of soap and small bags of dog or cat food. Smith’s or Co-op gift cards can be mailed to 1101 Bathtub Row for needs yet known. We appreciate your time, kindness and patience. Questions can be left at 662-8920 and your calls will be returned throughout the day.
“Our staff is working to implement services by request,” said Bernadette Lauritzen, LARSO Executive Director. “My biggest fear is that our people will be scammed by folks that appear to want to help. Seniors shouldn’t give money or let anyone into their home that they don’t know. The plan is for seniors to call the centers and request help to acquire groceries or prescriptions according to Lauritzen. The hope is that seniors aren’t in urgent need, but that as needs arise, the vetted, background checked and insured staff will be at the ready to help.” Their LAVA/RSVP volunteer programs also has a segment of volunteers with the same qualifications. Lauritzen wants to ensure that her employees are working, so that they can still get paid, which is a severe concern for many.
Those wishing to become members of the senior center, that are 60 and older can call and request a membership return call. “Some things will take a little bit of time, so we ask for patience during such a quick transition, said Lauritzen.” We will need to do some paperwork, if you are new to the centers, since a face to face meeting isn’t possible at this time. Our centers will NEVER call you for personal information and you are always welcome to call our main numbers to verify. Depending on the need for information, it may require a day or two to respond, but the centers will keep local media, social media and their website updated at all times. Many small businesses and non-profits can’t offer employees insurance, so getting a paycheck is imperative.
During this difficult time, help our local food establishments by purchasing gift cards. Ask restaurants if a pick up option is available and order by phone or email. This will help ensure their staffs stay employed too.

Friday March 13, 2020

New Mexico's governor announced Thursday that K-12 schools will close for three weeks beginning Monday in an effort to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus.
Public health officials also banned mass gatherings that involve 100 or more people in spaces such as stadiums or auditoriums as a way to limit the spread of the virus.
The moves came as the state confirmed a sixth positive test for coronavirus for a woman in her 50s from Santa Fe County who recently traveled to Italy, where more than 800 deaths have been linked to COVID-19.
Public Education Secretary Ryan Stewart said the extended schools closure is designed to guard against the spread of COVID-19 within communities. Five of the six infections in New Mexico have a confirmed travel link, and a possible travel component is under investigation of a woman in her 40s from Bernalillo County who also tested positive Thursday.
For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.
The order against gatherings came from Health Secretary Kathy Kunkel and provides exemptions for people at airports, mass transit sites, shopping malls, homeless shelters, courthouses, health care facilities, places of worship, weddings and funerals.
Albuquerque Academy, a private high school, already closed Thursday after someone associated with the school came into contact with an infected person.
State health officials are emphasizing concern for the elderly who are considered the most vulnerable to effects of the virus, distributing signs at nursing homes that discourage most visits.
A couple of colleges planned to extend spring break while others considered options for expanding the use of online courses.
New Mexico has opened a medical hotline, (855)-600-3453, to help people assess symptoms and seek care with precautions against new transmission. Nonessential state workers have been instructed to work from home if possible.
State health officials say the local capacity to test for coronavirus infections has tripled to about 7,400, as nonprofit TriCore Reference Laboratories announced it had begun processing diagnostic tests of respiratory specimens for COVID-19.

Thursday March 12, 2020

- Four people in New Mexico have tested positive for COVID-19 in the state's first known cases of infection, prompting Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham to declare a public health emergency on Wednesday and advise that all large public events be postponed to limit the spread of the virus.
She said a husband and wife in their 60s in Socorro County tested positive, along with a woman in her 70s in the Albuquerque area and a woman in her 60s from Santa Fe County.
The infected couple recently traveled to Egypt, while both women recently returned from trips to New York City.
State Epidemiologist Chad Smelser said the infections appear to be a result of travel and not transmission within local communities.
Lujan Grisham, a former state Health Department secretary, reiterated the importance of washing hands and minimizing contact with other people where coughing or sneezing can enable transmission.
During her press conference Wednesday, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham asked New Mexicans who believe they have coronavirus to call the New Mexico Department of Health hotline at (855)-600-3453 or their doctor.
The Governor said going physically to see their doctor puts others, including healthcare professionals and their staff at risk. People are advised to stay at home and "self-isolate" if they are exhibiting any of the symptoms of COVID-19. The symptoms include fever, cough or trouble breathing.
For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people recover from the new virus.

Wednesday March 11, 2020

Yesterday was candidate filing day for running for office in this election cycle. The following county offices are open for election in 2020, each county office with a four year term: -County Council (3 positions) and -County Clerk. Six people filed to run for the three county council seats. Republican David Reagor, Democrat Denise Derkacs , Democrat Greg White, Libertarian James Rickman, Democrat Rodney Roberson, and Democrat Sean Williams .
Current County clerk Democrat Naomi D. Maestas is running for reelection.

Tuesday March 10, 2020

Fire managers from the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD), Forestry Division may begin pile burns at Hyde Memorial State Park provided that conditions, including snowpack, fuel moisture levels, air quality, wind direction, and weather forecasts remain favorable. Implementation may occur as early as March 9, 2020 and continue through March 14, 2020.
Current snowfall in the area makes this an optimal time to burn the woody debris piles from prior thinning projects as it will help prevent flames from spreading to the surrounding vegetation. The project to remove the piles before it becomes fuel for future wildfires, is a collaboration between EMNRD, the State Parks Division, U.S. Forest Service (USFS), and Santa Fe National Forest Española Ranger District.
Smoke may be seen from Santa Fe and the surrounding area. Highway 475/Hyde Park Road, could be temporarily closed if visibility is compromised. Hyde Memorial State Park will remain open to the public, but visitors are advised to obey all traffic signs and/or trail closures.

Monday March 9, 2020

The Los Alamos Community Foundation is now accepting grant applications requesting up to $1,500 to fund competitive youth sports activities in Los Alamos County.
Organizations are invited to apply for funding for projects that build leadership skills in youth through achievement in competitive team sports. Youth served by the program must be located in Los Alamos County and/or attend Los Alamos public schools, and be between the ages of 5-18 years old.
Please visit the foundation's website to complete an application. Applications are due by 5pm on April 15, 2020. Selected recipient(s) will be notified by May 31, 2020. Funds awarded should be utilized in full by May 31, 2021.

Friday March 6, 2020

- projectY cowork Los Alamos, the local coworking space located at 150 Central Park Square, is currently seeking public feedback on facilities, amenities, and meeting/event space that remote workers, new entrepreneurs, students, non-profit organizations and others may either need or desire.
Hatchform is conducting a short survey on behalf of projectY, accessible at https://forms.gle/de6RwLkWcEoL3U7r9 until March 20. The public is encouraged to fill out the survey for a chance to win a $20 gift card to Rose Chocolatier.
For questions, please contact projectY cowork at 505-661-4862 or christina@losalamos.org.
Since its inception in June 2016, projectY cowork has hosted hundreds of entrepreneurial events attracting individuals from across Northern New Mexico. In addition to various membership options and punchcard passes to the workspace, projectY also allows non-members to reserve its 10-person conference room and event space for after-hours and weekend use. For more information, visit www.projectYLosAlamos.com.

Thursday March 5, 2020

The New Mexico State Land Office and the State Game Commission signed an easement agreement that allows hunters and sportspeople with a valid license through the Department of Game and Fish to access 8.8 million acres of state trust land.
For easement access, Department of Game and Fish will pay the SLO $800,000 -. Over the course of the easement, Department of Game and Fish will partner with State Land Office for $200,000 worth of projects aimed to enhance sportsperson access to state trust land. Projects can also be done to improve wildlife habitats.
Other improvements to the easement are based on feedback received from sportspeople across the state and are aimed at enhancing the hunting experience in New Mexico. They include:
A pilot program for dispersed and roadside camping, A pilot program for backpacking, An increase in the number of days hunters are allowed to scout on state trust land from 7 days to 14 days
A provision that the Commissioner consult with the Department of Game and Fish Director prior to using her authority to withdraw land from the easement.
For years, camping on state trust land for hunters has only been allowed in a small number of designated areas. The new pilot program will be used to assess how to best move forward with more permanent opportunities for licensed hunters to camp on those lands.

Wednesday March 4, 2020

 Starting now and continuing through the summer, the Los Alamos Police Department will be conducting traffic enforcement, focusing on accident related violations to include seatbelt enforcement. There will also be random DWI checkpoints throughout the county during this time frame. The public can help reduce the risk of vehicle crashes by adhering to posted speed limit signs, allowing enough room between them and the vehicle they are following and driving with caution when roadways are wet. Officers will also be on the lookout for impaired drivers for the next few months. To report potentially impaired drivers, dial #D-W-I, or #-3-9-4. Citizens in Los Alamos can also call the Los Alamos County Police Department directly at 662-8222 to report impaired or reckless drivers in our community. Please give yourself extra time to get to and from your destinations to ensure we all have a great summer.

Tuesday March 3, 2020

For the first time in the 20-year history of the U.S. Snowshoe Racing National Championships, three women from New Mexico swept the podium. Michelle Hummel and Amber Zimmerman of Albuquerque and Whitney Spivey of Los Alamos placed first, second, and third, respectively at the 2020 event, which was held at Colorado Mountain College in Leadville, Colorado, on February 29.
Hummel completed the hilly, high-altitude 10-kilometer event in 49 minutes, 21 seconds. Zimmerman was close behind, finishing in 51:30. Spivey placed third in 57:30. Of the 41 participants, nearly a quarter (10 women) were from New Mexico.
The top five finishers in the event earned spots on the U.S. National Snowshoe Racing Team, which means they will have the opportunity to compete in the 2021 World Championships in Argentina. The New Mexico contingent brings experience to this event: Hummel recently won the 2020 World Championships in Myoko, Japan. Spivey placed seventh at the 2016 World Championships in Vezza d'Oglio, Italy.
To qualify for the national championships, athletes had to compete in a snowshoe race earlier this winter.
Snowshoeing running is a rapidly growing sport in New Mexico. People interested in learning more about the sport can register for a clinic on March 7 through the University of New Mexico-Los Alamos. Register online at losalamos.unm.edu/community-education in the Outdoor Recreation section. National team member Whitney Spivey is the instructor.

Monday March 2, 2020

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has ordered all U.S. and state flags to fly at half staff from sundown Sunday through sundown Monday to coincide with services for SPC Lewark, the Mountainair soldier who died serving his country in Djibouti.
SPC Lewark died Feb. 13 at Camp Lemonnier while deployed as a member of the New Mexico Army National Guard to the Horn of Africa.
As a guardsman, he earned the Army Service Medal and a National Defense Service Medal. At home, he served his community as a Mountainair police officer and volunteer firefighter in Torrance County.

Friday February  28, 2020

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) continues to monitor and respond to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. While there remain no cases in New Mexico, the virus has spread to 11 countries outside of China, and 'community spread' has increased or been detected in several countries, including South Korea, Iran and Italy.

Community spread means that cases have been confirmed with no travel to China and no known contact with another case of COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) this week published a Level 3 Travel Warning advising US citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to South Korea. This is the same warning level as China.
The Department of Health has plans in place for how to accommodate many issues related to any spread of this virus to include in-hospital patient overflow, as well as plans for alternate sites to care for patients. NMDOH is also actively monitoring the hospital bed capacity in New Mexico and the availability of facemasks, respirators, and other personal protective equipment needed by medical personnel for infection control.
The NMDOH continues to ask all persons returning from travel to China and now South Korea to call our 24/7/365 "Epidemiology Hotline" at 505-827-0006 for guidance on how to protect yourself and your community from the novel coronavirus, even if you are not sick.
We also encourage healthcare providers to call NM DOH regarding ill returning travelers from China and South Korea. Healthcare professionals who suspect COVID-19 should immediately notify infection control personnel at their facility and contact the New Mexico Department of Health at: (505) 827-0006.
It is again important to note that there are no confirmed cases reported from New Mexico. NMDOH to date has monitored about 30 travelers returning from China, and none have developed symptoms of COVID-19.
Stay informed with the NMDOH dedicated novel coronavirus webpage that is updated in real time : https://cv.nmhealth.org/.

Thursday February 27, 2020

House Bill 44, the New Mexico Work and Save Act, creating a voluntary, state-sponsored savings program for small business, self-employed, and nonprofit employees in the private sector, was signed into law by the Governor. Sponsored by Representative Tomas Salazar, Representative Christine Chandler, Senator Michael Padilla, and Senator Bill Tallman, House Bill 44 addresses the statewide gap in retirement saving by encouraging employers to offer their employees access to a retirement savings plan. Currently, 62 percent of private sector workers in New Mexico work for businesses that do not currently offer a retirement plan.
New Mexico's retirees are in a financial crisis, with 50 percent of all older New Mexicans relying on Social Security income for more than half of their family income. Social Security benefits average only about $1,160 per month or $13,900 a year in New Mexico which is at or near the poverty line for many families. House Bill 44 seeks to help all New Mexicans build a solid financial foundation for themselves and their families. The web-based retirement plan marketplace will be maintained by the New Mexico Work and Save Board.
The retirement plan marketplace established by House Bill 44 will go into effect no later than July 1, 2021.

Tuesday February 25,2020

The Los Alamos Police Department Victim Assistance Program was established in 2015 through the funding of Violence Against Women Act and VOCA Grants. The program position was created as a contract and was later integrated into the Police Department as a county employee. The Victim Assistant of Los Alamos County is different than other police based victim assistance programs in that victims are not required to have a police report with Law Enforcement to get services from the Victim Assistant. The Victim Assistant provides crisis intervention and follow-up services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, dating violence, assault, battery, harassment and related issues.
The duties of the Victim Assistant are to provide the community with:
" Resources as needed to include
o Collaboration with local and neighboring agencies
o Legal Process
o Emergency Shelter
o Treatment Programs
o Education Programs & Financial Aid
" Assisting with understanding and filing Protection Orders
" Attend court proceedings for support and follow-up
" At requests and when safe to do so, comes on scene to provide immediate victim assistance
" Financial assistance through the New Mexico Crime Victim's Reparation Commission;
For immediate assistance with emotional crisis, mental health, or substance use concerns, the New Mexico Crisis and Access Line or Peer to Peer Warmline and can be accessed for support.
If assistance is needed, the Victim Assistant can be contacted at (505) 663-3511.

Monday February 24, 2020

Parker Construction, under contract with Los Alamos Department of Public Utilities, will reroute and replace a failed section of sewer. Beginning this week, new public sewer main pipelines between Pine Street and the existing main on the north side of Quartz Street will be installed.
Work will begin Monday, Feb. 24 and will continue for 30 days with crews working Monday through Friday between the hours of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. At times, traffic will be restricted to one lane at the very short construction zone in Quartz Street. DPU's contractor will maintain access to residents' homes at all times. No sewer service interruption is anticipated. For safety reasons, the Pine Street Playlot may be partially closed while repairs are underway.

Friday February 21, 2020

Do-it-Yourself Home Improvement Projects Los Alamos Community Development Is here to help you!
Get answers to your code, permitting, and Planning and Zoning questions on Saturday, February 22
9:00 a.m. until noon at Fire Station 3 in White Rock. Does your project need a permit? It all depends on the Los Alamos and the International Building codes. Put broadly, construction projects that could impact public and personal safety require permits. Types of permit-required construction include structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical. Each might require its own permit and series of inspections.
Good general contractors know when and how to pull permits, but New Mexico State allows homeowners to pull their own permits. This is an opportunity to talk to the County's Building and Planning division to find out if you need one, how to begin the process, or to ask general building questions. Refreshments will be served.

Thursday February 20, 2020

 Beginning today through next Tuesday February 25th, the Traffic and Streets Division of Public Works will be working on Canyon Road, between 15th Street and the Aquatic Center. Crews will be clearing vegetation along the medians and sidewalks. A flagging operation will be in place from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM, during the weekdays.
Vehicle and pedestrian traffic are urged to slow down and use caution in this work zone.

Wednesday February 19, 2020

According to the Los Alamos Reporter, A new era for Christian Scientists in Los Alamos County begins on March 1st when they re-locate from the former WAC dormitory to new premises.
The Christian Science Society has held Sunday and Wednesday services in Los Alamos since the Secret City's early days. To provide space for their services and reading room, in the 1950s the Society leased and later purchased the building used during the Manhattan Project as the WAC dormitory. It is one of the few original structures remaining from Manhattan Project days. In September of last year, the Society sold the building to Los Alamos County.
In December the Society purchased Uli's space at 800 Trinity Drive. Until remodeling of their new church home is finished, local Christian Scientists will continue to conduct regular Sunday services and Wednesday meetings in the Throne Room at Fuller Lodge.
Everyone is welcome to attend. For more information visit their web site at www.cssocietylanm.org

Tuesday February 18, 2020

Near Tsankawi Mesa are the ruins of a stone house that has long been known as Duchess Castle. In 1917, Verra von Blumenthal, a Russian handicrafts promoter, and Rose Dougan, an early female pilot, built a home on the ancient Pueblo site and worked to support potters from nearby San Ildefonso Pueblo. Join JJ Mortensen, Kit Ruminer, and Rory Gauthier as they present "Duchess Castle," the next event in the Los Alamos Historical Society Lecture Series tonight in Fuller Lodge at 7pm.
The speakers have interesting connections to the Duchess Castle history and have long been interested in the topic. Rory Gauthier participated in the original archaeological survey of the Tsankawi unit in 1988 and served as Bandelier National Monument's archaeologist from 2001-2014. He retired from the National Park Service following a 30-year career as an archaeologist, chief ranger, and law enforcement ranger at several southwestern parks. Gauthier will interpret the history of the ancient ruins near Duchess Castle.
Since retiring from Los Alamos National Laboratory, JJ Mortensen has worked part time at the White Rock Visitor Center and volunteers with Kit Ruminer as a Site Steward for Bandelier National Monument's Tsankawi section. In the 1970s, she and her husband, Fred, visited Duchess Castle for the first time, and since then she has wanted to know more about the site and the women who lived there.
Around the time that von Blumenthal and Dougan were active in New Mexico history, Kit Ruminer's grandparents moved to Santa Fe, a fact that adds to her interest in the two women and their times. She volunteers at Bandelier and the Museum of Indian Art and Culture as well as teaming with Mortensen as a Site Steward for Tsankawi. Mortensen and Ruminer will introduce the audience to the women of Duchess Castle.

Monday February 17, 2020

President's Day    No Live Shows

Friday February 14, 2020

Here are the lowlights of the police reports February 5 through 11.
One was arrested for a municipal court warrant
One was held on an arrest order
One was arrested for receiving ot transferring a stolen vehicle and aggravated fleeing an officer
One was arrested for disorderly conduct
One was arrested on a magistrate court bench warrant
One was arrested for DWI
One was arrested on a municipal court warrant and possession of a controlled substance.
There was a report of sexual assault
There was a report of fraud
There was a suicide attempt

Thursday February 13, 2020
Los Alamos parents with children who are four years old on or before Aug. 31, 2020 may apply for a half-day New Mexico Preschool Program for the 2020-21 school year. Los Alamos Public Schools currently has a NM PreK program located at Piñon Elementary.
There is a maximum enrollment based on available funding so applications will be entered into a lottery for acceptance into the program. The lottery opens on April 1 at 8:00 a.m and will be accessible at laschools.net. There is no cost to parents or students selected to attend, and transportation is available to those residing within the school zone.
The District preschool programs are half-day programs, one in the morning and one in the afternoon, and are in session for three hours per day on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Wednesdays will be used for staff training, planning, and parent meetings.
The District also has an opportunity to apply for additional NM PreK programs. At this point, we do not know how many spots will be funded by the state. If additional spots are funded, they will be located at schools in the townsite. Below are the essential steps in the funding process:
Step 1: The New Mexico Legislature will need to appropriate additional funds for New Mexico Preschool programs. The Legislative Session ends on Thursday, Feb. 20, and the Governor has until March 11 to sign or veto legislation passed in the last three days of the session.
Step 2: After the Los Alamos Public Schools staff seek input from the community, they will submit an application for additional PreK funding. Depending upon parental input and state guidelines, our application may be for Barranca, Aspen and/or Mountain Elementary Schools. We do not know how quickly the state will be reviewing and approving the application for Los Alamos Public Schools.
Step 3: If the LAPS application is approved, we will identify classroom space, order materials and recruit high-quality licensed early childhood teachers.
LAPS staff are hopeful and planning ahead; thus, the PreK lottery application process will open on April 1 through the district website. All interested parents of eligible children who live in Los Alamos County are encouraged to apply. Parents will be notified in June if they are selected for placement in one of the PreK programs.

Wednesday February 12, 2020

According to the Los Alamos reporter : Los Alamos Police Department held its annual awards banquet Saturday, Feb. 8 at the Los Alamos Sheriff's Posse Lodge.
The following awards were presented to Department personnel:
Civilian of the Year - Kate Stoddard, Consolidated Dispatch Center Manager
Public Service Aide of the Year - Paul Sena, Animal Shelter Manager
Detective of the Year - Det. Matt Lyon
Officer of the Year - Cpl. John Harris
Detention Supervisor of the Year - Sgt. Erika Martinez-Bustos
Operations Supervisor of the Year - Sgt. Ben Irving
Supervisor of the Year - Sgt. James Rodriguez
In addition the following awards were awarded for outstanding achievements:
Sgt. Chris Ross - Life Saving Commendation and Medal of Valor
Cpl. Jemuel Montoya - Medal of Valor
Sgt. Tim Lonz - Medal of Valor
Cmdr. Oliver Morris - Medal of Valor
Cmdr. Preston Ballew - Medal of Valor
Deputy Chief Jason Herrera - Medal of Valor

Tuesday February 11, 2020

The office of Congressman Ben R. Lujan, would like to invite Vietnam Veterans you to join him, as he holds a Vietnam War Veterans 50th Year Commemoration Pinning ceremony, for all Vietnam Era Veterans in Los Alamos County and surrounding communities. The ceremony will take place on: Saturday, Feb. 15, at the Betty Ehart Senior Center, 1101 Bathtub Row, in Los Alamos. Doors will open at 2:30 pm to sign in, and no RSVP is required to attend.
The event will honor our Vietnam Era veterans and the families of Vietnam Era veterans who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

Monday February 10, 2020

Knoze Jr. Corp will be honored with the "Star Business of the Year" award from the Small Business Development Center at UNM-LA. The Star Businesses will be recognized on the floor of the New Mexico legislature. The company is grateful with supports from local communities and visions that the world will accept AllerPops for Allergies just as it accepts penicillin for pneumonia.
Knoze Jr.'s founder, Cliff Han, invented AllerPops three years ago and started his company. AllerPops are a revolutionary prebiotic lollipop that that gives people all-natural allergy relief that lasts for months. Current medicine for allergies only relieves symptoms temporarily with significant side effects. AllerPops target the cause of allergies, resulting in lasting relief with minimal side effects.

Friday February 7, 2020

The Los Alamos Public School's Board met for a work session last Thursday, Jan. 30.
Spelling Bee winners James Hudlemeyer, Penelope Barry-Hoffman and Veronica Parra were recognized with certificates presented by School Board President Ellen Ben-Naim.
School Resource Officers (SRO) Sergeant Chris Ross, Corporal Jay Eakins, Officer Samantha Terrazas and Corporal John Harris were also recognized as part of SRO Appreciation Month.
Superintendent Kurt Steinhaus updated the board on next steps for Strategic Planning for the district. There are eight focus areas in the LAPS Strategic Plan: Student Well-Being, Student Learning, Teacher and Staff Excellence, Fiscal Responsibility, Quality Facilities, Innovative Leadership, Communications and Collaboration, and Integrated Technology. Each of these areas have a lead person who will update the School Board on the progress of projects under their focus area.
LAPS Construction Manager Herb McLean recommended to the board an option for building a flexible space at Barranca Elementary that could serve as a classroom or office space in order to accommodate additional students and six new staff. The board unanimously approved construction of the new space
The next School Board meeting will be on Tuesday, Feb. 11 in the School Board Room located at 2101 Trinity Drive, Suite V. Members of the County Council plan to attend and listen to a presentation about options regarding the North Mesa Property. The public is invited to attend.

Thursday February 6, 2020

The state House of Representatives approved a budget plan Wednesday to increase annual state spending by more than a half-billion dollars to expand early childhood education programs, boost teacher salaries and shore up health care for the poor.
The House-approved bill contains a 5% pay increase for public school teachers as the state struggles to retain and recruit educators, a 4% boost for school staff and a 3% bump for state employees.
The budget proposal would increase state spending on Medicaid amid a push to enroll more eligible patients by the administration of Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, but leaves out funding for her initiative to provide tuition-free college to in-state students.
Democratic House speaker Brian Egolf predicted that the state Senate will insert funding for the tuition-free college after that proposal undergoes revisions. A budget plan is due on the governor's desk by Feb. 20.
Annual public school spending would increase to $3.45 billion amid a push to extend the school year at many school districts. General fund spending on Medicaid would increase by more than $50 million to nearly $1.1 billion - including new support for mental health care and addiction treatment.

Wednesday February 5, 2020

- Last week some White Rock customers of the Los Alamos Department of Public Utilities noticed that their drinking water looked cloudy or white. Department officials indicate that this discoloration is due to trapped air in the water pipes. While it is aesthetically unpleasant, the water is safe and poses no health
DPU's water crews were repairing a major water main break on the shoulder of New Mexico State Road 4 for several weeks in January. Repairs were completed on January 27 and the newly repaired line was recharged with water on January 28 and introduced into the White Rock water distribution system. According to officials this resulted in excessive trapped air in the water main causing some customers to experience cloudy water. The situation will clear itself, but to speed things along DPU crews on Monday, Feb. 03, began flushing water through fire hydrants at various locations in White Rock.
DPU officials thank customers for their patience and recommend flushing home plumbing lines by running all the taps with cold water for several minutes. Questions or concerns may be directed to the DPU through the Customer Care Center Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 505-662-8333

Tuesday February 4, 2020

Geo-Test, Inc. will be performing two asphalt cores in the slow lane on the eastbound lane of NM 502/Trinity Drive on Tuesday February 4 starting at 9:00 am through 11:00 am. Lane closure will include signs and barrels to allow for continuous travel through the area. Traffic is urged to slow down in the construction zone and obey all traffic control devices

Monday  February 3, 2020

projectY cowork Los Alamos will host a new TED "Talko" Tuesday, a free event open to the public every third Tuesday of the month. The coworking space will stream 2-3 talks under a specific theme from the popular Technology Entertainment Design (TED) series, featuring expert speakers discussing education, business, science, tech and creativity topics. February 18th beginning at 5:30 p.m. at projectY, the talk will focus on diversity in honor of Black History Month and to also coincide with the recent Diversity week held in Los Alamos.
Along with a group discussion after the streamed talks, local food vendor Muy Salsas has partnered with projectY and will be selling tacos for $0.99 each during the event.

Friday January 31, 2020

The board of the Living Treasures of Los Alamos has selected three Treasures for 2020, and they hope you will save the date for the ceremony. The honorees for this year's celebration are Linda Burns, Don Casperson, and Lois Eddleman. This year, nominees will be honored on April 26 at 2 p.m. at the Betty Ehart Senior Center.
The Living Treasures of Los Alamos will celebrate its 21st anniversary, continuing the 1999 vision of Rosalie Heller and Karen Nilsson Brandt. The program assembled an all-volunteer board and the work began to seek out the first treasurers for our community. The board wanted to honor senior citizens who have worked to build community. The first event was held in April 1999, when Winifred Amsden, Alice and Foster Evans, and Betty Lillienthal were recognized for their contributions.
The nomination process is challenging, but the results are stellar contributions of service, time, and talent. These contributions have helped to form the very foundation of Los Alamos, and often have created many of the long-standing programs we know today. The history and stories of each nominee will be captured and highlighted for the 2020 ceremony.
You can learn more about the Los Alamos Living Treasures program, by visiting the organization's website at www.losalamoslivingtreasurers.org.

Thursday January 30, 2020

- Los Alamos County and their consultant will host a public meeting on the North Mesa Housing Study tonight at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers (1000 Central Ave). The County is seeking to create a design concept for workforce housing on approximately 30 acres of land located on North Mesa, located east of the Los Alamos Middle School, between the school, soccer fields, North Mesa Rd and San Ildefonso Rd. The land is owned by the School District. The overall goal is to generate a concept that can be carried into design and development.
Preliminary work on three design concepts began in December by engaging an appointed Steering Committee in a workshop to explore housing types and options. The public meeting tonight to review these concepts is the next step. The consultant will be presenting the information and collecting public feedback in a formal presentation, which includes a survey of participants as part of the process.

Wednesday January 29. 2020

Los Alamos Chief of Police Dino Sgambellone released crime statistics for 2019 which were compiled by the Records Section of the Los Alamos Police Department.
Offenses reported as crime statistics are determined by the FBI Uniform Crime Report Program and are classified as crimes against persons (violent crime) and crimes against property. The offenses of murder (homicide), rape, robbery and aggravated assault make up the violent crime category. The offenses of arson, burglary, larceny, and auto theft make up the property crime category. Both of these categories combined are referred to as Part I Offenses.
Through the fourth quarter of 2019, officers responded to a total of 92 overall Part 1 Offense complaints, which represents a 32% decrease as compared to 135 offenses in 2018. Violent crime decreased 20% from 25 offenses in 2018 to 20 in 2019. Property crime decreased by 35% from 110 in 2018 to 72 in 2019. The total of 92 Part 1 Crimes is believed to be the lowest recorded crime rate in the Department's history.

Tuesday January 28,2020

Traffic and Streets will be performing right-of-way maintenance along Canyon Road between the Los Alamos Jewish Center and 15th Street.  Work will commence January 28th and end January 31st. Crew will be setting up a flagging operation starting at 8:30 am each day and ending by 3:30 pm.  Vehicle traffic is urged to slow down in this area and follow all traffic diversion devices and to watch for crews working in the area as well as pedestrian traffic.

Monday January 27, 2020

New numbers for fiscal year 2019 show Los Alamos National Laboratory's big impact on New Mexico's economy, as the Laboratory employed 12,041 people for a total of $1.16 billion in salaries and contracted with small businesses statewide for $288.6 million.
In FY 2019, which ended September 30, the Laboratory spent $396 million in procurement contracts with New Mexico businesses. Of those, $289 million went to contracts with small businesses (up from $269 million in FY 2018). In addition, the Laboratory significantly increased its contracts with businesses categorized as disadvantaged, women-owned, veteran owned, and HUB-zone located from FY 2018. A single business may qualify for more than one category.
With 56 percent of Laboratory employees living outside of Los Alamos County, much of their salaries-a collective $548 million-are spent in their home communities.
In FY 2019, the number of Laboratory employees reached 12,041, up from 11,743 in FY 2018. As of the end of FY 2019, 41 percent of Laboratory employees were native New Mexicans.

Friday January 24, 2020

Quality New Mexico is proud to announce the 2019 New Mexico Performance Excellence Awards (NMPEA) recipients. These four organizations are role models in customer and employee satisfaction and engagement, sound operational management, innovation, and favorable outcomes. They exemplify the result of commitment, progress, and dedication to organizational excellence.
The Roadrunner (Progress) level reflects that the recipient demonstrates progress in building sound and systematic processes and attaining improved outcomes. The 2019 Roadrunner Recognition Recipients are:
     Los Alamos Department of Public Utilities, Los Alamos
The NMPEA is a multi-tiered assessment and awards process assisting New Mexico organizations along their path to achieving and sustaining performance excellence. Performance excellence reflects Level 1 Adobe, Level 2 Piñon, and Level 3 Roadrunner Recognitions as key stages to achieving the pinnacle of performance-earning the prestigious Level 4 Zia Award. New Mexico

Thursday January 23, 2020

Los Alamos County and their consultant will host a public meeting on the North Mesa Housing Study on Thursday, January 30th at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers (1000 Central Ave). The County is seeking to create a design concept for workforce housing on approximately 30 acres of land located on North Mesa, located east of the Los Alamos Middle School, between the school, soccer fields, North Mesa Rd and San Ildefonso Rd. The land is owned by the School District. The overall goal is to generate a concept that can be carried into design and development.
Preliminary work on three design concepts began in December by engaging an appointed Steering Committee in a workshop to explore housing types and options. The public meeting on January 30 to review these concepts is the next step. The consultant will be presenting the information and collecting public feedback in a formal presentation, which includes a survey of participants as part of the process.

Tuesday January 21, 2020

With the recent snowfall in Los Alamos, officials with the Department of Public Utilities would like to remind customers to maintain access to and clear snow and ice off meters. This will ensure that DPU can bill customers on actual meter reads rather than estimating reads.
Meter Technician Supervisor Edgar Castillo asks customers to please check gates if meters are in the backyard.
More importantly, snow and ice on the natural gas meter can be dangerous. Castillo points out that if snow and ice block the vent on the meter's regulator, gas could be expelled back into the home. Use a broom instead of a shovel to clear snow off the regulator, meter, and associated piping. If customers smell gas, Castillo instructs them to immediately call the Customer Care Center at 505 662 8333 Mon. - Fri. from 8 - 4 p.m. and after hours the Police Department at 505 662 8222.

Monday January 20, 2020

County administration offices are closed today for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. If this is your trash day, put your roll cart at the curb Wednesday instead. The Eco Station and Overlook Convenience Center are closed. Other County facilities may be closed or have shortened hours of operation. Check the county website before you you plan to visit the library, pool or ice rink.

Friday January 17, 2020

Due to the weather and snow, Los Alamos National Laboratory is closed, Los Alamos Public Schools are closed, Los Alamos and White Rock senior centers are closed, Magistrate Court is closed.   Los Alamos County is on a Two hour delay.

Thursday January 16, 2020

Due to expected heavy snow, the Lab is on a delayed opening Thursday, Jan. 16. Employees should report to work between 10 a.m. and noon.

UNM-LA is on a 2 hour delay. The Chamber of Commerce breakfast is cancelled.

Los Alamos Public Schools are on a 2 hour delay

Wednesday January 15,2020

The University of New Mexico-Los Alamos (UNM-LA) is pleased to announce that Monther Jubran will serve as the new director of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Jubran, who has been teaching Accounting and Tax at UNM-Los Alamos, has extensive experience in academia, public accounting and private industry.
As Vice President of Finance, Administration and Coaching for a seed investment company, Jubran helped start-ups accelerate growth, develop their marketing strategies and monetize on their business models.
The SBDC at UNM-LA is part of the New Mexico SBDC network, which is a nationally accredited association providing statewide business resources. It is the state's largest small business assistance program offering no-cost consulting, low-cost training and market research for businesses at all stages of business development.
Typical areas of assistance include business start-up and registration, business planning development, customer service, marketing, business funding, incorporation, proposal preparation, human capital planning, business computing, record keeping, regulatory issues, quality management, productivity enhancement and trade name searches.
Jubran is a Certified Public Accountant and holds a Masters in Accounting and Taxation from the University of Memphis.
Located in the lower level of building 7 on the UNM-LA campus, the SBDC is generally open from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday. For further information, call 505-662-0337.

Tuesday January 14, 2020

Both Sandia Corporation and Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory published recruitment and brand awareness advertisements in Physics Today and Scientific American in 1956-1964. In those advertisements the laboratories mobilized tropes, symbols, and art of an "American Southwest Imaginary."
Martin Pfeiffer, a PhD student in Anthropology at the University of New Mexico, will review a sample of advertisements when he speaks in Fuller Lodge Tonight at 7:00 p.m. His lecture is titled "Nuclear Weapons are a Southwestern Thing: Los Alamos and Sandia Magazine Advertisements, 1956-1964."
Pfeiffer will examine a sample of advertisements to suggest how nuclear weapons laboratory advertising responded to US nuclear weapon projects, while also seeking to shape the circumstances and outcomes of some projects. In particular, he will discuss the ways in which Los Alamos and Sandia mobilized images of the American Southwest in efforts to recruit workers, shape mass attitudes positively toward nuclear weapons work, and respond (or not) to geopolitical and sociocultural changes varying from shifts in American gender ideologies to the challenges of the nuclear explosive test moratorium of 1958-1961.
Martin Pfeiffer is a PhD student in Anthropology at the University of New Mexico. His main research focus at the moment is nuclear semiotics: the ways in which we create, negotiate, and circulate meaning about, around, and through nuclear weapons. Pfeiffer, lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Monday January 13, 2020

Here is the Los Alamos National Laboratory weather summary for the month of December. For the second month in a row, temperatures were slightly above average. Winter was off to a great start in November with above average snowfall, but December was much drier with several sunny days
and light precipitation. Winter storms between Christmas Eve and December 28 resulted in all of the month's snowfall of 4.2 inches which is only 34% of normal.
The 2019 weather Summary In Los Alamos, temperature was slightly above average and
precipitation was slightly below average.
The Mean temperature: 48.8°F (101% of normal).
Total precipitation: 17.99 inches (95% of normal).
Total snowfall: 47.6 inches (83% of normal).
The Climate Prediction Center (CPC) is predicting below-average temperatures and equal chances for above or below precipitation for January. The CPC is predicting above-average temperatures
and equal chances for above or below average precipitation for January to March.

Friday January 10, 2020

Forty people will be recognized this Saturday, as Champions of Youth Ambitions (C'YA) and the Los Alamos National Laboratory Foundation, sponsor the 11th annual Community Asset Awards. The annual event, strives to highlight the good work done by many people throughout our community.
Six businesses have been nominated, along with a variety of individuals. Those include; Aspen Copies, Fleur de Lys, Morning Glory Bakery, Pig & Fig, Rigoberto's and Unquarked. The many individuals represent, the arts, banking, Los Alamos County, the Los Alamos Public Schools, the Los Alamos Police Department, Smith's Market Place and many community volunteers. They also run the gamut from youth to senior citizens.

Thursday January 9, 2020

Tuesday January 7, 2020