Los Alamos Daily Digest Friday, July 03, 2026
Ty's Take
That dead juniper in Pajarito Acres isn't just a tree—it's a warning written in bark and brittle wood that the plateau is thirsty in a way we haven't seen in a while. We've lived through Cerro Grande and Las Conchas, we know what happens when the mountains dry out, and we know the Lab's growth keeps pushing more of us into the foothills where fire finds fuel and water gets scarce. The Fourth of July's coming with fireworks in everybody's pocket and the Forest Service begging people to think straight about it. This is the weekend when the mountains don't forgive mistakes.
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Los Alamos Daily Post
Juniper Tree In Pajarito Acres Illustrates Effect Of Dry Weather
A juniper tree in White Rock's Pajarito Acres shows how the region's severe drought affects local vegetation. The tree has sacrificed several branches to survive the dry conditions.
Unemployment Insurance Operations Center Closed Today
New Mexico's Department of Workforce Solutions offices, including the Unemployment Insurance Operations Center, will be closed Friday for Independence Day. The online unemployment system remains available 24/7, with staff returning Monday morning.
Lauritzen: ‘Pack It In, Pack It Out’
Los Alamos County is asking attendees at Saturday's Fourth of July Spectacular to take their trash and recyclables home with them. Previous events left county workers dealing with days of cleanup work.
State Lawmakers To Introduce Data Center Moratorium In Upcoming Legislative Session
Four New Mexico lawmakers plan to introduce a statewide moratorium on large-scale data center development during the 2027 legislative session. The proposal would pause new projects while the state develops regulations for the industry.
McCauley Springs Fire Update: July 3, 2026
The McCauley Springs Fire east of Battleship Rock has burned 712 acres and is 63 percent contained as of July 3. About 328 personnel continue suppression and repair work in the area near Sierra de los Pinos.
President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration For Pueblo Of Acoma
President Trump has approved a major disaster declaration for the Pueblo of Acoma to help with recovery from September's severe storms and flooding. Federal assistance will be available on a cost-sharing basis for emergency repairs.
Paige Trujillo Earns Reserve World Champion Title At National Junior High Finals Rodeo
Los Alamos Middle School eighth-grader Paige Trujillo earned the Reserve World Champion title in Junior High Girls Goat Tying at the National Junior High Finals Rodeo in Oklahoma. Trujillo secured the second-highest ranking in the nation.
Senator Tobiassen: Women’s Sports Are For Women
State Senator Nicole Tobiassen praised a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that upholds state laws protecting women's sports from transgender participation. The unanimous decision affirmed that such restrictions do not violate federal civil rights law.
Santa Fe National Forest Reminds Visitors To Recreate Responsibly This Fourth Of July
The Santa Fe National Forest is reminding Fourth of July visitors that fireworks are banned year-round on forest lands and urging responsible recreation. Officials warn that fireworks and sparklers pose serious wildfire risks during dry conditions.
2026 Primary Election Post-Election Audit Complete
Los Alamos County has completed its required post-election audit of the June 2 Primary Election tabulation systems. A bipartisan team conducted the accuracy check at the County Clerk's office on June 24.
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Los Alamos Reporter
Presbyterian's decision to end most Medicare Advantage plans in 2027 will disrupt coverage for thousands of New Mexico seniors and disabled beneficiaries. Affected individuals will need to reassess their insurance options and access to providers.
LTE: In Support Of Stephanie Garcia Richard For Democratic Nominee For Lieutenant Governor
A local resident is urging the Democratic State Central Committee to nominate Stephanie Garcia Richard for the vacant position of Democratic Lieutenant Governor candidate. Garcia Richard previously served the Los Alamos area.
Kiwanis Club Hears From Library Director Gwen Kalavasa During June 16 Meeting
Library Director Gwen Kalavasa told the Kiwanis Club about the many services county libraries offer beyond book checkout. The presentation highlighted programs and events designed to serve the community.
The McCauley Springs Fire remains at 712 acres and 63 percent containment as crews continue repair work ahead of the holiday weekend. Officials are urging caution as residents prepare for Fourth of July celebrations.
July’s Cowboy Breakfast Is Sunday At The Los Alamos Sheriff’s Posse Lodge
The Los Alamos Sheriff's Posse Lodge is hosting its monthly Cowboy Breakfast this Sunday. The community gathering offers a traditional meal and fellowship opportunity.
Los Alamos Project Y Robotics Team 4153 To Host ABQ RoboRumble July 11 In Albuquerque
Project Y Robotics Team 4153 from Los Alamos will host the ABQ RoboRumble competition on July 11 in Albuquerque. The event brings together robotics teams for regional competition.
Huge Three-Day Garage Sale Parish Fundraiser July 3-5 At Madonna Hall In Jemez Springs
Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church in Jemez Springs is holding a three-day garage sale fundraiser at Madonna Hall from Friday through Sunday. Thousands of items including furniture and appliances will be available at reduced prices.
County: Bear-Resistant Roll Carts In High Demand: More Carts Ordered To Support Residents’ Needs
Los Alamos County's bear-resistant roll carts are in high demand, with current inventory expected to be exhausted within the week. The county has ordered additional carts to meet resident needs.
Republican Party Of Los Alamos Announces July 2026 Events, Including Fourth Of July Barbecue
The Republican Party of Los Alamos is planning July events including a Fourth of July barbecue. The party recently held a successful silent auction fundraiser dinner.
New Mexico's Attorney General released an investigation showing Gallup-McKinley County Schools uses out-of-school suspensions at rates among the highest in the state. The report also found Native American and Hispanic students face more frequent discipline.
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