Good morning, Las Cruces.

The City's Parks and Recreation Department will offer Mommy and Me classes at Frank O’Brien Papen Community Center starting May 29 for kids ages 6–10 on Thursdays from 4 to 5 p.m. and beginning May 30 for children ages 0–5 on Fridays from 4 to 5 p.m. (Classes cost $5 per child-guardian pair with an extra $1 for each additional child) (Registration is available online and in person at the Center from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.).

After World War II, Las Cruces grew fast because of work at White Sands Proving Grounds and new suburbs took business from Main Street.

In 1972, city planners closed part of Main Street to form a mall—later, 2002 renovations reopened the street for two-way traffic and local shops returned.

The Mesquite Street Original Townsite Historic District in Las Cruces reflects a historic grid layout based on an 1853 survey that reserved blocks for a church and a plaza.

St. Genevieve Church served as a key landmark until its demolition in 1967—after which Klein Park became the new focal point.

Las Cruces writer George Mendoza released the audiobook version of his Pulitzer Prize-nominated novel Journey of the Spirit Man today, using Amazon's AI narrator Jessica + a production led by a New Mexico State University graduate to bring his story to life.

Las Cruces Public Schools, Arrowhead Park Early College High School, Rio Grande Preparatory Institute and Organ Mountain High School improved their graduation rates in the 2024 cohort, and the New Mexico Public Education Department recognized them during a recent meeting—this success comes as the schools used data-driven strategies and targeted support to overcome challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic—local officials say the improvements reflect ongoing efforts to help every student succeed.

State environmental officials are evaluating rare emergency power after tests taken May 7 at a Santa Teresa plant recorded arsenic levels above the federal limit—this action may force the Camino Real Regional Utility Authority, which serves about 19,000 people in southern Doña Ana County, to provide alternate water supplies if a health threat is confirmed.

New Mexico Attorney General Raul Torrez praised NMSU on May 20th for finishing 21 of 35 state anti-hazing recommendations linked to issues from the 2022-2023 basketball season.

NMSU President Valerio Ferme said in a letter that the school is still working on tougher rules—like better reviews of coaching hires—to improve campus safety and culture.

Doña Ana County is holding a news conference today to update residents on ending its joint powers agreement with Sunland Park that formed the Camino Real Regional Utility Authority.

County officials will explain the reasons for the move and outline next steps—including negotiations over asset and debt distribution—to shape future water and wastewater services.

Memorial Day Weekend New Mexico Wine Festival

Noon-6 p.m. — Southern New Mexico State Fairgrounds — General admission required — Celebrate local wines with tastings, food trucks, and live music during this festive weekend.

Mayor's Jazz Festival

7 p.m. — Plaza De Las Cruces — Free admission — Celebrate a summer of live jazz, community joy, and good vibes with local and traveling acts.

70's Hippy Night Karaoke

7-11 p.m. — Little Toad Creek Brewery & Distillery Las Cruces — Free entry — Sing your favorite 1970s hits and embrace the flower power vibes.

On-Site Tour at The Heritage Assisted Living

9 AM - 7 PM — The Heritage Assisted Living & Adult Day Care, LLC — Free entry — Explore the community's top-rated amenities and programs for seniors.

Junior Golf Tournament at Sonoma Ranch

— — Sonoma Ranch Golf Course — — Participate in an exciting junior golf tournament in Las Cruces, New Mexico.