ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A vulgar text message sent by a board member’s husband during an APS School Board meeting has put the board in the spotlight, sparking discussions about meeting conduct and attendance.
School Board Meeting Disruptions Highlight Conduct Issues
A school board meeting took an unprofessional turn when a vulgar text message was displayed on a board member’s laptop, leading to public scrutiny.
- A vulgar text message was accidentally displayed on an APS School Board member’s laptop during a meeting.
- The incident occurred as board members reviewed self-evaluations, with attendance becoming a point of contention.
- The message was sent by the husband of board member Heather Benavidez, commenting on board member Courtney Jackson.
Last week, during an APS School Board meeting, members were reviewing self-evaluations on their laptops. Board member Heather Benavidez raised concerns about attendance, which led to a debate concerning a member on maternity leave. Benavidez’s husband, following the proceedings remotely, sent her a text that inadvertently appeared in large print on her laptop screen. The message contained a vulgar remark about board member Courtney Jackson.
UNM Proposes Medical School Expansion to Address Physician Shortage
The University of New Mexico Health Sciences is urging state lawmakers to support a significant investment in its medical school. The proposal aims to double the school’s size, with an estimated $600 million construction cost, to help increase the number of physicians practicing in the state. Last year, the university collaborated with the legislature to develop a business plan, securing $30 million for planning and design. Officials now contend that the completed plans justify continued state support.
Weather Shift: Rain Expected Before Significant Temperature Rise
New Mexico is set to experience drier conditions starting Wednesday, though isolated afternoon showers and storms may still occur, albeit less frequently than on Tuesday. Temperatures are expected to climb, with this trend continuing through the end of the week, bringing hotter and drier weather statewide. The northern mountains and northeastern parts of New Mexico will see the greatest chance of precipitation.
New Mexico Film Industry Faces Slowdown Post-Strikes
The national film industry’s slowdown is impacting New Mexico. The state film office attributes this to the industry-wide shutdown in 2023 caused by the actors’ and writers’ strikes. Despite the current lull, there is optimism for a recovery, with new projects anticipated to begin filming this fall.
NMSU’s Chile Pepper Institute Opens Teaching Garden for Tours
New Mexico State University is inviting the public to explore its Chile Pepper Institute Teaching Garden. Visitors can now take self-guided tours to learn about the diverse world of chile peppers. The garden showcases the subtle and unique flavor profiles of over 150 varieties, highlighting nuances in taste.
