Story #500
Organ Mountain News marks its 500th story with a reflection on community impact, investigative wins and the road ahead for local, independent journalism in southern New Mexico.
Damien Willis
Founder/Editor of Organ Mountain News. Celebrated Introvert. Award-winning Journalist / Gov't PR Guy / Podcaster. Formerly with Las Cruces Sun-News and Hot 103.
Las Cruces cooling stations open through Saturday as triple-digit temperatures persist
Cooling stations in Las Cruces will operate modified hours through Saturday, June 21, with limited availability Thursday due to the Juneteenth holiday.
NMSU-MÁS grant termination halts innovative STEM teaching program
A federal policy shift has forced NMSU to cancel its MÁS program — a nationally recognized effort to improve STEM instruction at Hispanic-Serving Institutions. Faculty say the impact on teaching and student success has been profound.
NMSU loses $25 million in research funding as federal directives take hold
NMSU Vice President for Research Luis Cifuentes says nearly $25 million in research grants have been lost due to recent federal policy shifts. Officials are now working to realign staff, preserve outreach efforts and protect student programs.
Why I-10 near Lordsburg keeps killing drivers
Frequent dust storms have turned a remote stretch of I-10 into a hazard zone. As deadly crashes rise, scientists and transportation officials are exploring what can be done.
What we're hearing: NMSU’s research mission takes a hit
New Mexico State University has lost nearly $25 million in federal research funding due to policy changes tied to DEI rollbacks. One-third of that came from a major EPA grant focused on environmental justice and community outreach.
Las Cruces police release new details in May 8 shooting involving officer near South Walnut Street
Las Cruces police released new details and video from a May 8 shooting involving an officer and 18-year-old Josiah Perrault. Officials say the case highlights rising teen gun violence in the area.
FBI spotlights joint terrorism task force, border partnerships in El Paso roundtable
At a roundtable marking 45 years of its Joint Terrorism Task Force, the FBI and partner agencies highlighted border-related threats, southern New Mexico coordination, and oversight mechanisms to protect civil liberties.
Honoring our nurses: The heart of healthcare
In honor of National Nurses Week, MountainView CNO Dr. AJ Stephens recognizes the impact of nurses and introduces a new residency program to support the next generation.
