Former Alamogordo senior project manager and ADA coordinator Justen Boyle alleges he was fired in retaliation for raising concerns about ADA compliance and directives he believed violated city ordinances. After he described his grievance publicly, the city commission voted 7-0 to hire an independent reviewer to investigate his termination and delayed hearing.

Artesia Public Schools celebrated Red Ribbon Week with activities encouraging students to make healthy choices, remain drug-free and become heroes of their own stories. Zia Intermediate’s “Every Hero Has a Story… Every Bulldog has a Superpower” theme featured comic book superheroes, historical figures and Halloween activities while honoring DEA Special Agent Enrique “KiKi” Camarena and the fight against illegal drugs.

A New World screwworm infestation in an Otero County beef cow has prompted livestock movement restrictions within a 12.5-mile zone. Ranchers must obtain inspections and movement certificates, while restrictions are expected to last at least 84 days. Officials urged owners to monitor livestock and pets for untreated wounds, maggots and unusual behavior, and report suspected cases without moving animals.

This opinion essay argues that the upcoming midterm elections represent more than a referendum on gas prices or presidential approval. It frames the contest as a fundamental choice between limited government and free-market capitalism and a progressive socialist agenda, examining immigration, energy, Iran, fraud, DEI, and Islamism while warning of the consequences.

The Lady'Dogs soccer team advance to the quarterfinals.

Lady Dogs volleyball loses to Portales on the road on Thursday night.

Artesia girls soccer team advances to the quarterfinals with 2-0 win.

Artesia boys lose at home.

Otero County commissioners declared a flood emergency after severe storms damaged roads and other infrastructure. Officials say damage assessments and emergency repairs are ongoing, with some areas still inaccessible and the full recovery cost unknown. The declaration allows the county to seek additional state funding, while FEMA inspectors assess damage described as extensive by local emergency officials.

The Artesia Public Library invites local residents to stop by and sign Christmas cards for American troops.

New Mexico School for the Arts gives students statewide access to rigorous academics and pre-professional arts training, but distance remains a barrier. Its dormitory provides free housing, meals and programming for rural students who could not otherwise attend. As NMSA seeks permanent dorm funding in 2027, state leaders should ensure ZIP code never limits a student’s talent.

Artesia season ends.