Summer Kickoff Craft Brews Summer Wine Fest Nearly 10 years after chimpanzees were listed as endangered and research on chimpanzees became illegal Chimp Haven—the national chimpanzee sanctuary and a Lincoln Park Zoo partner—has received the final six members of the primate group known familiarly as the Alamogordo chimps “We are so happy to share that all chimps from the Alamogordo Primate Facility have arrived at Chimp Haven and are settling into their new home,” its Facebook page announced “We look forward to sharing more as they begin new adventures and become part of the Chimp Haven family.” This development is welcome news for animal welfare groups and organizations like Lincoln Park Zoo which provided research and welfare reports on the animals these allies have been fighting to improve the conditions of chimpanzees and specifically the group of chimps held at Alamogordo 21 new arrivals have made their way to Chimp Haven Chimp Haven staff welcome the Alamogordo chimps Maintenance and Protection Act was passed in 2000 to provide for a federal sanctuary system for “surplus federally owned chimpanzees that are no longer needed in research conducted or supported by the National Institutes for Health or other Federal agencies,” as the act reads Chimp Haven was awarded a federal contract to operate as a national chimpanzee sanctuary dozens of chimpanzees have lived for a long time at the National Institutes of Health’s Alamogordo Primate Facility at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico even though they are no longer being used in research NIH announced in 2015 that it would no longer support biomedical research on chimpanzees “All NIH-owned chimpanzees that reside outside of the Federal Sanctuary System operated by Chimp Haven an average of 36 NIH chimps a year were transferred to Chimp Haven resulting in more than 200 primates relocating to the larger habitats at Chimp Haven NIH announced that 44 surviving chimpanzees at Alamogordo would not be sent to a sanctuary as required NIH officials later said that the aging chimps remaining in government care either had health conditions that made them too fragile to move or were socially bonded with a sick chimp chimp supporters pointed out that many chimps at the private nonprofit Chimp Haven have conditions that require long-term care more than 50% of Chimp Haven’s primate residents receive medications to manage different health conditions and the Humane Society Legislative Fund filed a lawsuit charging NIH with violating federal law a federal judge determined that NIH violated the law when it decided the chimps would not move to Chimp Haven NIH committed to sending the remaining chimpanzees to the sanctuary In a New York Times article in which it announced the news NIH officials noted that relocating the animals remains risky but the agency was afraid it might face a staffing shortage of caretakers due to upcoming retirements and recruiting difficulties Wotoni and Al (who is also pictured in the featured photo above) engage in a grooming session the news today confirms that 21 Alamogordo chimps have now arrived at the 200-acre refuge and will live out the rest of their lives with nutritious food notes in the sanctuary’s official announcement that it recently broke ground on a new expansion that made it possible for the chimps to come there following years of effort by animal welfare groups and supporters who tirelessly advocated for their retirement from their former research facility to sanctuary.” director of Lincoln Park Zoo’s Animal Welfare Science Program “The move to our partner Chimp Haven should provide a substantial improvement in welfare for these chimps allowing them to express a full range of natural behaviors and have a social environment that can support the needs of this long-lived We look forward to watching them live out their lives under thoughtful care that enhances their emotional and physical wellbeing.” Administration Offices: 2001 North Clark Street • Chicago New Mexico (KVIA) -- A judge sentenced Alamogordo resident Ryan Reese to 391 years Reese was convicted of 18 counts of Criminal Sexual Penetration in the First Degree (minor under 13) seven counts of Criminal Sexual Contact (minor under 13) "The sentence is the longest prison sentence ever handed down in the 12th Judicial District of New Mexico," a spokesperson for the 12th Judicial District Attorney explained I will not rest until I know I am going to put the strongest case possible before the jury," District Attorney Ryan Suggs said staff and victim’s advocates share the same sentiment When I said that my administration will prosecute those who viciously abuse our children seven counts of Criminal Sexual Contact of a Minor The conviction comes after a five day trial in Alamogordo A victim told classmates he or she was being sexually abused The child ran away from home later that same day Law enforcement officers found the victim soon after Investigators say the child had been abused for approximately five and a half years and his sentencing is expected to happen in late April or early May Prosecutors say Reese could be sentence to up to 445 years in prison Officials have not released Reese's booking photo KVIA ABC 7 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here Terms of Service | Privacy Policy | Community Guidelines | KVIA-TV FCC Public File | FCC Applications | Do Not Sell My Personal Information Copyright © 2025 El Rito Media, LLC. All rights reserved. A memorial service will be held at New Heart Cowboy Church, 1311 Galway, Alamogordo, NM, on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., with Pastor Mike Cannon officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Peggy’s memory to: Assurance Home 1000 E. 18th Street Roswell, NM 88201 "Hands Off" protest in Alamogordo, irradiated waste sipped to WIPP from Idaho lab, and fundraiser brings out pampered pooches. Powerlifting is gaining traction at Alamogordo Public Schools and head coach Austin Drefs is happy about the sport’s rapid growth. With its roots as a small club activity just a few years ago, powerlifting has transformed into a full-fledged competition that draws students from all walks of life into the weight room. “The overall goal isn’t just about winning,” Drefs said. “It’s about getting people into the weight room and making them feel comfortable lifting weights.” For many students, powerlifting improves strength and speed for other sports, though the program has also cultivated dedicated powerlifters. The team has more than 40 girls and 50 boys participating. Drefs attributes this success to a welcoming team culture. “Our kids recruit other kids,” he said. “They make it easy and comfortable for newcomers, especially girls who might initially feel intimidated.” Powerlifting is a relatively new phenomenon in New Mexico. Introduced initially as a club sport during the COVID-19 pandemic, it offered students a way to compete virtually by submitting videos of their lifts. “It started to keep kids engaged during COVID,” Drefs said. “But the rapid growth and interest made it clear we needed to turn it into a full-fledged sport.” Powerlifting is now a spectator sport in New Mexico. The Rio Rancho Event Center hosts packed events with fans cheering for athletes across weight classes. “The growth has been incredible,” Drefs said. “We’re talking about 50 kids per weight class. It’s wild.” The Alamogordo team’s first meet of the season is set for 8 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, at the Alamogordo High School Auxiliary Gym. Drefs said the initial meet is crucial. “We want our top lifters to qualify right away so they can focus on a 10-week program leading up to the state competition,” he said. “It’s going to be a battle, especially with all the Las Cruces schools coming down to compete.” Drefs promises an electric atmosphere, for seasoned spectators and newcomers alike. “It’s loud, intense, and the energy is unmatched,” he said. “Even if you’re not into lifting, watching these kids put up incredible numbers is impressive.” Drefs encourages the community to come out and support the young athletes. “These kids are amazing, and the environment is something you must experience for yourself,” he said. We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. Your current subscription does not provide access to this content. Please use the button below to manage your account. Please log in, or sign up for a new account to continue reading. Welcome! We hope that you enjoy our free content. Thank you for signing in! We hope that you continue to enjoy our free content. Sorry, no promotional deals were found matching that code. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham pauses while giving her State of the State speech before a joint session of the 2023 New Mexico Legislature in Santa Fe on Jan. 17, 2023 (Photo by Shaun Griswold / Source NM) With less than two weeks before the upcoming legislative session gets underway, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham (D-NM) will take part tonight in a town hall meeting in Alamogordo focused on public safety. A message advertising the event on the governor's Facebook page last Thursday invited the public to participate in “an open discussion about crime and creating a safer New Mexico for everyone.” The town hall begins at 5:30 p.m. at New Mexico State University Alamogordo at 2400 North Scenic Drive. It will be livestreamed on the governor's Facebook and X pages. Lujan Grisham will field questions and discuss the public safety challenges that plague the state. Since July, Lujan Grisham has held similar events at venues in Las Cruces, Albuquerque, Espanola, Farmington, Raton and Gallup. Another town hall is scheduled for Jan. 13 in Raton. Jodi McGinnis Porter, deputy communications director for Lujan Grisham's office, said in an email Tuesday that hosting the town halls “creates opportunities to hear residents' firsthand accounts of crime-related challenges and work together on strategies to strengthen community safety.” The forum in Alamogordo comes as part of an effort to prod lawmakers into taking up her crime-fighting initiatives in the legislative session that starts Jan. 21. They include reforms to the state criminal competency and civil commitment standards, enhanced penalties for felons found in possession of firearms, changes to the state's human trafficking laws and a ban on Glock switches, which can be used to convert handguns into automatic weapons. For the past year, Lujan Grisham has clashed with her own party, who hold majorities in both legislative houses, over such proposals. After lawmakers failed to take action on many of her public safety priorities in last year's 30-day session, she called a special legislative session on the issue in July. Lawmakers adjourned within five hours after passing a disaster relief funding bill for victims of the South Fork and Salt fires, which consumed much of Lincoln and Otero counties, but did not consider anything else. At the time, critics of the proposals claimed they were not well thought out, and that the compressed schedule of a special session was not the proper venue to take up such bills. Sen. Joe Cervantes (D-Las Cruces), the chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, has repeatedly blamed the failure of police and prosecutors to use existing laws, not a lack of tough penalties as the problem. Camille Ward, a spokesperson for New Mexico House Democrats, insisted that lawmakers are working to tackle crime. “House Democrats have driven a legislative agenda focused on public safety for the last several years and we will do so again in the upcoming session. Democratic lawmakers are focused on making New Mexico a safer place to live and raise your family, with meaningful policies to reduce crime now while also addressing its root causes,” Ward said. Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Your browser is out of date and potentially vulnerable to security risks.We recommend switching to one of the following browsers: Otero County voters go to the polls today to choose a new president, decide on who will represent the area in Congress and elect more. Anyone registered to vote in Otero County can do so at any of the county’s Voting Convenience Centers. Here’s where to go today to cast your ballot. Tularosa Public Safety Facility – Court Room Wind gusts of 30+ mph along with afternoon and evening blowing dust, could reduce visibility. Weather MapsRadarJury finds man guilty of murdering an Alamogordo police officerby Melissa Herrera New Mexico (KFOX14/CBS4) — The Office of the Twelfth Judicial District Attorney said on Friday the man accused of shooting an Alamogordo police officer was found guilty of first-degree murder and other charges by an Otero County jury De La O was also found guilty of tampering with evidence aggravated fleeing of a law enforcement officer The jury decided after hearing testimonies from 21 witnesses called by the prosecution an officer with the Alamogordo Police Department initiated a traffic stop that the intersection of 9th and Puerto Rico in the City of Alamogordo Two individuals exited the vehicle with their hands raised and approached the officer De La O jumped into the vehicle's driver seat and fled the scene De La O crashed into a light pole and exited the vehicle with a sawed-off shotgun De La O turned and fatally shot Anthony Ferguson Ferguson was airlifted to the University Medical Center in El Paso where he later succumbed to his injuries on July 16 and Assistant District Attorney Ryan Suggs who assisted in the prosecution "Key expressed his gratitude to the law enforcement community and all justice partners for their unwavering dedication and commitment to seeking justice in this case," said the news release De La O will remain in custody and his sentencing is scheduled for Nov De La O is facing a maximum sentence of life without parole plus eight years and 361 days RECOMMENDED:Hundreds attend fallen Alamogordo police officer's funeral to pay their respects Sign up to receive the top interesting stories from in and around our community once daily in your inbox Adrian HeddenEl Rito Mediaachedden@currentargus.com Otero County Sheriff’s deputy Jacob Diaz-Austin on Monday was charged with first-degree murder in the shooting death of 17-year-old Elijah Hadley a member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe in south-central New Mexico of Las Cruces fired upon the boy after responding to a call for a welfare check at about 10:45 p.m The initial report described a person in a roadway median in an area between Tularosa and Mescalero according to a news release from the New Mexico State Police It was later reported that Hadley was carrying an airsoft gun when he was shot by Diaz-Austin An airsoft gun is defined as a replica of a real firearm that shoots plastic pellets instead of bullets Diaz-Austin was not injured in the incident The shooting was subsequently investigated by the New Mexico State Police Diaz-Austin remained employed by the Sheriff’s Office as of Tuesday and has been placed on administrative leave until the judicial process concludes He’s being represented by Las Cruces-based criminal defense attorney Charles McElhinney who refused to comment on the case Tuesday Diaz-Austin was initially cleared of any charges by the Otero County Sheriff’s Office (OSCO) after three separate internal reviews of the incident according to a Tuesday news release from the sheriff’s office The reviews followed an internal investigation into use of force tactics use during the shooting and the sheriff’s office said it found Diaz-Austin acted in accordance with the agency’s policies “OCSO affirms its commitment to the rule of law and allowing the criminal justice system to do its work,” read a statement from the sheriff’s office “OCSO further acknowledges that this incident has been traumatic and divisive for the community and is committed to ensuring the judicial process is followed according to the law.” The Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office announced the charges in a Monday night news release and said the 12th District Attorney’s Office in July 2024 asked Bernalillo County to take on the case This was potentially due to conflicts with the local prosecutors charging a local police officer attorney for Hadley’s mother Eva Hadley with The Spence Law Firm in Albuquerque said the family viewed the charges as a “step toward justice.” The Spence Law Firm specializes in wrongful death and civil rights cases and was not likely to take a role in the criminal case although he said the family was likely to file a lawsuit against the sheriff’s office “I think the biggest reaction is a feeling of appreciation that Elijah has not been forgotten,” Logan said is a sign that steps are being taken to hold the shooter accountable.” Logan said he could not comment on the events leading up to Hadley’s death on the night of the shooting but said the teenager was killed by an “unnecessary and inappropriate use of force.” All we say is that it was wrong,” Logan said “To not know if anything would be done about it was really hard Case moved to avoid possible ‘conflict of interest’ Logan did not speculate as to why the case was moved from the 12th District to Bernalillo but said the move would ensure it proceeded properly “Everyone wants the public to know a fair and transparent process is guaranteed,” he said “This is an especially important case to me spokesperson for the Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office declined to comment on the specific reasons the 12th District sent the case to Bernalillo County but said cases can be “conflicted out” when local prosecutors have frequent interactions with local law enforcement under investigation The 12th District Attorney’s Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment “That is a reason why cases are conflicted out but I can’t speak for that district attorney,” she said “If that district attorney believes there would be a conflict of interest they can send it to another district attorney’s office even if they didn’t want the appearance of a conflict of interest.” Diaz-Austin could face a sentence of life in prison according to the criminal complaint filed Monday He could also be convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to up to 18 years’ incarceration and two years of parole A firearm enhancement could be added for using a gun while committing a felony meaning another five years could be added to the prison term Diaz-Austin is scheduled to be arraigned Jan 27 and could enter a plea on the charge by video conference before 12th District Judge John P The Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office also said it would not conduct any additional interviews “at this time,” providing no details on the next steps for the prosecution The Mescalero Apache Tribe did not return requests for comment The case will be prosecuted by District Attorney Sam Bregman along with Chief Deputy District Attorney Natalie Lyon Diaz-Austin was first hired by the Otero County Sheriff’s Office in 2021 according to a Facebook post by the office on May 12 New Mexico Department of Public Safety Secretary Jason R along with state police command staff and staff from the office of Gov 15 with leaders of the Mescalero Apache Tribe to discuss the investigation “We are committed to delivering an accurate account of the events and it is our priority is to ensure a comprehensive and unbiased investigation,” Bowie said “Open communication with tribal leadership and the family members are essential for building and maintaining strong trust-based relationships between the police and the communities they serve.” A sense of tension and rising concern about crime and violence encased the Alamogordo community after the murder of a police officer in 2023 and last year’s fatal shooting of an indigenous teenager by a county sheriff’s deputy Michelle Lujan Grisham responded to those concerns by holding a crime-focused town meeting at Alamogordo’s Tays Center The meeting also aimed to ratchet up support for Lujan Grisham’s public safety agenda about two weeks ahead of the 2025 Legislative Session starting Jan The governor advocated during the town hall for legislation that would add stiffer penalties for felons in possession of firearms during the commission of violent crimes and expand a court’s ability to hold repeat offenders in pretrial detention That’s very frustrating to the men and women that are public safety officials keeping our communities safe,” Lujan Grisham said you have to make a stronger case to be released during the trial.” is where repeat offender Dominic De La O was convicted in November of murdering an Alamogordo police officer in 2023 and sentenced to life in prison That followed the June 2024 death of 17-year-old Elijah Hadley who was fatally shot by an Otero County Sheriff’s deputy answering a call for a welfare check on a person in a roadway median was carrying an airsoft gun when he was shot by police That shooting is under review by the New Mexico State Police A small group of audience members repeatedly chanted “Elijah” during the meeting and held up signs reading “Apache Lives Matter.” “It was a really rough year,” Alamogordo Mayor Susan Payne said to the audience of about 200 residents and community leaders “Criminal justice has been a big initiative of mine Greg Gutierrez with the League of United Latin American Citizens argued that widespread homelessness must be addressed if New Mexico is to see a reduction in crime He said the organization raised funds to support the homeless providing basic resources they need including food and shelter He asked the city and state to join such efforts and bring a state-funded homeless shelter to Alamogordo rather than “teaching cops to be more aggressive.” they need help and assistance,” Gutierrez said Payne responded that along with providing basic needs to the homeless the community must also teach them life skills and provide services to help people lift themselves out of poverty The Alamogordo City Commission passed a resolution last year prioritizing criminal justice and public safety and inviting Lujan Grisham to hold a town hall in Alamogordo This was after the governor held a trio of town halls over the summer in Albuquerque followed by additional meetings the governor did not attend in rural areas such as Carlsbad “We need to be able to express what we want her to hear,” Payne said of the governor We need that opportunity to speak to her.” The governor said one thing Alamogordo does have in common with other cities in New Mexico is a “revolving door” effect when repeat offenders such as known drug traffickers are quickly let out of custody ahead of trial She said many are not prosecuted because of mental health issues that lead to them being deemed incompetent to stand trial Lujan Grisham said that as of last year 16,000 criminal cases had been dismissed statewide since 2017 for this reason “It is clear that if they’re coming before a judge multiple times that this is a serious risk in our communities,” Lujan Grisham said “That notion that you won’t be held accountable in this state means that people will come here (to commit crime).” Payne said she agreed with the governor’s past statements that crime and public safety are frequently linked to mental health and substance abuse issues which she said the state and local communities can work together to address Payne said mental health and crime sometimes “go hand in hand.” Lujan Grisham proposed multiple failed reforms to New Mexico’s criminal justice laws including steeper penalties for felons in possession of firearms and bills to strengthen the state’s ability to require repeat offenders with documented mental health problems to undergo treatment After Lujan Grisham-supported legislation failed to materialize during the 2024 regular legislative session the governor called a special session in July pushing earlier priorities and several others intended The session was ended by lawmakers hours after it started on July 18 with lawmakers passing only a relief funding bill to support those rebuilding their homes and businesses in the wake of the South Fork and Salt Fires in Ruidoso the governor urged lawmakers to hike funding by $4.5 million for the State’s Organized Crime Commission following a December report from the commission that recommended the increase be approved via a special appropriation across fiscal years 2026 and 2027 23 said that the body had rarely been fully utilized since the 1990s and that Lujan Grisham revived it in May 2023 drug and firearm trafficking in the state and surrounding areas including its aggressive approach to fighting the cartels in human trafficking and cannabis,” said Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman Boys – Centennial defeats Alamogordo 56-51 Jaedyn Hernandez had 17 and Ethan Grinder with 6 2-4 in district – next host Organ Mountain on Monday Girls – Centennial defeats Alamogordo 48-23 Teeya Gordon led the Lady Tigers with 8 points Julianna Centrella and Madisen Flores each had 5 0-6 in district – next play at Organ Mountain on Monday I have fought a good fight; I have kept the faith.” II Timothy 4:6-7 Jerry Dwight Branch Jerry entered into eternal rest on November 11 Jerry graduated from Alamogordo Public Schools He was employed at Dynalectron and Dyncorp working government contracts at Holloman Air Force Base for over 30 years Jerry accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at Corinth Baptist Church in Alamogordo where he was an avid member of Sunday School and Church Services He was a faithful servant and a true believer in the Word of God His kindness and respect with which he treated others demonstrated the Christian core which shaped his life He enjoyed working on vehicles and washing his cars is survived by and leaves to cherish his memories NM; seven grandchildren; six great grandchildren; a host of nieces Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Edna Mae (Huckleby) Branch and Jesse Lee Branch Visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Saturday The Funeral Service for Jerry Branch will be held at 11:00 am Burial will follow at Monte Vista Cemetery The Branch family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Alamogordo Funeral Home to direct the funeral services please visit www.alamogordofuneralhome.org  Albert Ray Einhellig passed away on March 10 He had an extensive Career in the Army which he loved Albert is survived by his wife of 57 years Visitation will be held from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Thursday The Graveside Service with full Military Honors will be held at 10:30 am The family will be meeting at Alamogordo Funeral Home for a procession to Fort Bliss at 8:00 am if you would like to accompany them donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at https://www.alz.org The Einhellig family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Alamogordo Funeral Home to direct the services — The man accused of killing an Alamogordo police officer last year is scheduled to go on trial with jury selection starting Monday Dominic De La O is facing multiple charges for allegedly shooting and killing Alamogordo Police Officer Anthony Ferguson during a traffic stop investigators said De La O faced charges in two other criminal cases De La O was driving drunk and fled from law enforcement He was arrested and released on bond with conditions he violated those conditions with the case pending De La O picked up a new case in January 2023 Officers were trying to serve a warrant on him when a foot chase led to a shooting Documents say De La O pulled a gun on Alamogordo police officers his conditions were revoked for a short period of time after his attorney told a judge the detention center wasn’t providing him with appropriate medical attention Twelfth Judicial District Judge Angie Schneider agreed to “give him one more chance.”  He was released just a month before he allegedly shot and killed Alamogordo officer Anthony Ferguson De La O also faces federal firearms charges in this case with a trial scheduled for next year a federal judge sentenced 31-year-old Jonah Apodaca for supplying a sawed-off shotgun that authorities say De La O used to kill Ferguson Any person with disabilities who needs help accessing the content of the FCC Public File may contact KOB via our online formor call 505-243-4411 Kamaka was transferred to Louisiana sanctuary Chimp Haven earlier this year it was announced all remaining chimps were moved from Alamogordo into their new home in Louisiana Email notifications are only sent once a day that is — the retirement home for New Mexico chimpanzees used for biomedical experiments at Holloman Air Force Base’s Alamogordo Primate Facility 10 chimps were transferred to the 200-acre Louisiana sanctuary it was announced all remaining chimps were moved into their new forested home “This is not just a momentous occasion for Chimp Haven but for every person who worked tirelessly to make this possible lasting relationships with their new companions.” The chimps are settling into their new home according to a news release from the sanctuary groups including Animal Protection New Mexico filed a lawsuit hoping to force the National Institutes of Health to move the animals A judge ruled keeping the chimps at the Alamogordo facility violated a 2000 chimpanzee sanctuary law in December the agency reversed course and asked to dismiss its appeal For three decades we stood with these chimpanzees through every setback executive director of Animal Protection New Mexico “We never gave up — because their lives mattered and they deserved a future beyond the confines of a lab “Seeing them step into the sunlight of sanctuary at Chimp Haven will be the ultimate affirmation of what determined compassionate advocacy can achieve,” she added Federal officials said Friday the planned retirement of a "significant number" of the animals' caretakers prompted the move Advocates have pushed for years for the former test animals at Holloman Air Force Base to be moved to a Louisiana sanctuary Animal rights groups are calling the National Institutes of Health's justification an end run around the intent of the 2000 CHIMP Act Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device Account processing issue - the email address may already exist Receive a list of 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your password has been sent to the email address listed on your account $1.9 million MainStreet project promises to grow downtown area Mainstreet Makeover started with a discussion about replacing the sidewalks in the 900 block of New York Avenue and then grew Now it has become one of New Mexico’s “Great Blocks” projects “We got a capital outlay grant from New Mexico MainStreet for $1.9 million to do what you would call the streetscape,” said Nolan Ojeda executive director of Alamogordo MainStreet have you ever remodeled your kitchen or bathroom and it’s really horrible but when it’s over you’re so excited?” he said “That becomes your favorite room in the house.” lit from within and depicting themes from Alamogordo’s history about the railroad These will be at intersections important to the downtown area – the corner of 10th Street and New York Avenue and at the intersection of Ninth Street and White Sands Boulevard “These are called Gateway Features,” Ojeda said “They’re supposed to be large and impactful visually so even if you’re just driving through it’s a signal to you that something is special about this area.” He said most Great Blocks projects in the state have Gateway Features attracting attention to the town’s main street The project will also replace the benches on the block with ones that face the street instead of the buildings and install new crosswalks and parking spots will be repainted and the roads will be repaved and regraded to help with drainage The sidewalk replacement part of the project will help the city comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act “One of the number one of things that we struggle with the most down here is ADA compliance,” he said we have events or people want to come shop or whatever it’s really walker or even a stroller to get around on our sidewalks because we have several sidewalks that are buckling.” the intersection at Ninth Street and New York Avenue will be dropped by a foot and the concrete stained with brick inlays so it looks like the intersection is made from brick All four corners will have benches with trees creating a plaza for Mainstreet events He said construction will cause disruptions for businesses shoppers and neighborhood residents but that the community needs to come together to keep the businesses going he’s certain it will be the community’s “favorite room in the house.” co-owner of Infinity Sweets Bakehouse and Café at 908 New York Ave. said some of the businesses are already suffering Bradshaw and his wife Rachel Anderson have seen their business decline by nearly 75% since construction began “We do have hard and fast customers who are sticking with us through the construction He said he might begin offering delivery service to offset some of the lost revenue said the biggest problem is people don’t seem to realize the stores are still open He also said some customers who stop in complain about the inconvenience of having to park a block away But MainStreet revitalization projects have yielded positive results around the country including increases in new businesses and decreases in building vacancies “Within three years of doing an infrastructure like the Great Blocks they are seeing 90% increases in foot traffic which then means more money for the businesses which means more economic vitality,” Ojeda said Sidewalk replacement is scheduled to begin in mid-January and be completed sometime in November Businesses will stay open during that time with the possible exception of days when the sidewalk in front of a store is being replaced On those days the businesses will have the option of closing or providing back entry to customers Many of the businesses are already offering back door access 30 and Christmas on Main Street is still a go from 4 to 9 p.m Charles Hartman (Chuck) was born in Valley City He grew up on a 4th Generation family farm in Litchville He received a BS in Education from North Dakota State University His military career spanned over 27 years of active duty as a pilot and commander His most significant assignment was Commander of Bare Base Detachment at Shaw AFB The detachment inactivated and the Bare Base Unit moved to Holloman AFB where he activated the 4449th Mobility Support Squadron (MOBSS) in 1972 and served as its first Commander MOBSS later re-designated to the 49th Materiel Maintenance Group Bare Base and is currently designated as the 635th Materiel Maintenance Group BEAR Base Today it represents the USAF’s largest deployment commitment and is comprised of 3,538 equipment packages $415 million of War Reserve Material and 32 specialties graduated basic military training at Lackland AFB and then was accepted to Aviation Cadet Training in 1952 He received his Commission August 1953 with a pilot rating and retired as a Colonel in 1979 During his military career he was stationed at the following bases: George AFB he was a functional check flight pilot and was an instructor for four years at Officer Training School Military awards and decorations include: The Legion of Merit The Vietnam Service Medal with 4 Bronze Stars The Air Force Commendation Medal with four Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters and The Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Ribbon with Palm He deployed to the 7th Air Force in Vietnam where he flew with the 45th Reconnaissance Squadron He later returned to Vietnam for a second deployment from 1969 to 1970 businesses included Pier 1 Imports (Las Cruces He was involved with the following professional and community service organizations to include the following: Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) and was instrumental in chartering this organization in 1991 (lifetime member) Elks (lifetime member and served as the Exalted Ruler from 1994-1995 and was the Building Chairman for the current facility located in Alamogordo He held many high-level offices including the Governor of the Southwest District He was instrumental in launching several new Kiwanis Clubs throughout Southern New Mexico Chuck was a true warrior and an exceptional person he gave selflessly to his community and found immense joy in his children and grandchildren His love and support for those around him were unwavering and his legacy will be remembered with pride step-grandchildren and step-great grandchildren He was preceded in death by his first wife Funeral services will be held at Christ Community Church at 2960 North Scenic Drive in Alamogordo on Wednesday service at 1:30 pm with Pastor Eric Lucero officiating Interment will follow at Monte Vista Cemetery A celebration of Chuck’s life will be held at The Elks Club following interment The Hartman family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Alamogordo Funeral Home to direct the funeral services Indiana to Charles and Juanita (Blake) Foster Following graduation from Daleville High School in Daleville Chuck joined the United States Air Force in 1968 and served for 20+ years retiring as a Master Sergeant He served in several capacities including crew chief on several different air frames including T-37 He then became a Safety Inspector and retired as a Flight Safety NCO at Holloman AFB he worked at Dyn Corp Aerospace and M-1 Aerospace holding several different positions in those companies and his career progression reflects his leadership and skills great granddaughter Eleanor and lifelong friends John and Lanette Shroyer The family will greet friends at Scenic Chapel on Friday The funeral service will be held at 11:00 am Burial will follow at Fort Bliss National Cemetery donations can be made to The Wounded Warriors Project The Foster family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Scenic Chapel to direct the funeral services Taylor and his wife were delivering care packages to the newest airmen and their families at Holloman Air Force Base when they witnessed a head-on collision Decades of military experience took over as Taylor jumped out of his car to help a seriously injured man trapped in one of the vehicles "A moment of shock from seeing it happen right in front of us then I instantly wanted to see what I could do to help," Taylor said "The only thing going through my mind was that someone needed help and I had the experience and training to help them." is the commander of the 29th Attack Squadron at Holloman Air Force Base and an MQ-9 Reaper pilot 6 on Indian Wells Street near Holloman Air Force Base in Alamogordo One car crossed over double yellow lines and into oncoming traffic "We pulled off to the side to see if we could assist," Taylor said I could hear the man screaming from his car I ran up and could see gasoline pouring out and the vehicle smoking." The driver was pinned in the car with one of his legs snapped More: Mexican military troops inspect US-bound vehicles in Juárez to curb border smuggling 'I did what any of my airmen would have done'"I was worried the vehicle would catch fire soon so I pulled him free and carried him clear of the accident so I could stabilize him until emergency services arrived," Taylor said The driver had a complete compound fracture of his right leg "I asked the other driver to call 911 while I checked for more severe injuries and emergency vehicles showed up quickly," Taylor said Taylor used his military training to provide Tactical Combat Casualty Care to care for the man The driver was stabilized and treated for shock Emergency crews took over patient care while firefighters kept the vehicle from burning "Traumatic events trigger our fight or flight response," Taylor said "Our military training helps us remain calm and in control of those emotions so we can think clearly and respond In that moment I did what any of my airmen would have done and have done I tapped into that experience and training and just focused on the environment and situation and responded." The act of bravery was what all airmen are trained to do and are proud to do for their community "All airmen are given extensive training to be able to remain calm under pressure and to assist one another with medical care if one of us gets hurt," Taylor said "That translates very well to helping our community in times of similar need I just happened to be the airman there at that moment "We have dozens of airmen who have done some incredible acts to serve someone in need in the community; performing CPR applying life-saving TCCC till paramedics arrive or putting their own lives in danger to rescue a civilian Everyone in uniform is a hero that wouldn’t hesitate to act if we see a need and will be there for our community when we can." Taylor added he hopes his actions shine a light on the importance of community members coming together to aid each other "What makes us a strong community is being present for one another," Taylor said The most important thing is to just be willing to help Whether that’s responding to an accident or helping a family in need what makes this such a beautiful community is our humanity and willingness to show up for one another." More: Border Patrol names Walter N. Slosar interim chief for El Paso Sector Taylor has served in the military since 2000 Colonel in 2022 and assigned as commander of the 29th Attack Squadron in 2024 and international instructors providing MQ-9 initial flight training for over 200 U.S Taylor has received several awards and decorations in his more than two decades in the military including Bronze Star Medal; Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters; Aerial Achievement Medal with sixteen oak leaf clusters; Air Force Commendation Medal; Air Force Achievement Medal Army Achievement Medal and Navy Achievement Medal with gold star Aaron Martinez covers the criminal justice system for the El Paso Times He may be reached at amartinez1@elpasotimes.com or on X/Twitter @AMartinezEPT.