Good morning, Las Cruces.

Today at the Rio Grande Theatre in Las Cruces—'Neo Noir at the Rio Grande: Mildred Pierce' begins at 6 p.m.—the week features events such as Saturday’s Earthbag Greenhouse Field Day from 8 to 11:30 a.m., Teen Splash Nights from 7 to 10 p.m., free outdoor movies, and a Farmers & Crafts Market, with additional activities like a Sunday park music series, a Monday film screening and library day, and a Thursday mariachi concert at 7 p.m. for local residents.

Las Cruces Police Department said that since January, thieves have targeted HVAC systems on large commercial and residential buildings by stealing copper and aluminum during nights and weekends and have caused over $1.5 million in damages—police urge business owners to secure roofs and install cameras.

Firefighters responded to two early morning fires on July 7 in Organ and July 5 on Majestic Ridge in Las Cruces—both incidents were quickly contained with no injuries and investigations into the causes underway.

Las Cruces Police Department is leading Operation Not in Vain 2025—reports indicate the effort has resulted in 94 felony arrests and the seizure of over 2,300 fentanyl pills as local, state and federal agencies continue their work through June.

The Parks and Recreation Department rescheduled repairs on the rubberized playground safety surface at East Mesa Recreation Center Park, Gus Vlachakis Park, and Pioneer Woman’s Park from July 8-9 to July 10-11—temporary closures will be enforced until the new surface cures.

In 2012, a federal jury awarded $22 million to Stephen Sleven for his mistreatment in the Doña Ana County jail, and a recent column warns that despite new bail changes and a state Supreme Court rule setting trial deadlines, courts and corrections still lack the funding and staffing needed to handle case backlogs effectively — prosecutors call for more resources to prevent dismissals.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection plans to build a border wall spanning 1.32 miles at Mount Cristo Rey near Sunland Park to improve security, though the Las Cruces Diocese opposes it because the mountain holds a 29-foot Jesus statue and is a pilgrimage site.

University experts and conservation groups warn the barrier may force migrants to take riskier routes and harm local wildlife and drainage issues — raising concerns about its overall impact.

A recent report shows the Las Cruces housing market is stabilizing as single-family home inventory has risen above 750 and closing prices drop slightly in the Mesilla valley.

Real estate brokers advise sellers to price homes competitively and use quality marketing (including professional photography) as buyers enjoy more negotiation power.

7th Annual Tequila, Taco & Cerveza Festival

Enjoy a summer block party — 1-7 p.m. — Plaza De Las Cruces — Free entry — Indulge in over 100 Mexican beers and 40 tequilas while enjoying live entertainment and vendors.

Music in the Park - Thee Locomotion Style and Satisfied

Enjoy the summer weather — Time not specified — Young Park — Free entry — Experience a vibrant afternoon of live music featuring local acts across various genres.

ORION 224 Live Concert

7-11 p.m. — El Camino — Ticket info not provided — Experience an exciting night of live music with ORION 224 and special guests.