In a recent meeting of the Las Cruces City Council, several proclamations were made to honor community initiatives and recognize significant contributions to local culture and safety.

The council proclaimed Saturday, October 27, 2024, as \"Friends of the Community Candy Drop Day,\" honoring Richard Weaver, owner of Weavers Welding. Weaver initiated this event in 2006 to foster positive interactions between young people and authority figures in a safe environment. The event has grown significantly, now featuring music, activities, and free candy for attendees, with support from local businesses and organizations.

Additionally, October 22, 2024, was designated as \"Pride of New Mexico Day\" in recognition of the New Mexico State University (NMSU) Pride of New Mexico Marching Band. The band has a long-standing tradition of excellence, performing at various university and community events for over a century. This proclamation aims to celebrate their contributions to the cultural fabric of Las Cruces.

The council also declared October 2024 as \"Careers in Construction Month,\" emphasizing the importance of the construction industry in the local economy. This initiative aims to raise awareness about career opportunities in construction and encourage youth to consider pathways into this vital sector, which is projected to need nearly two million new craft professionals by 2025.

Furthermore, October 24, 2024, will be recognized as \"Lights On After School Day,\" highlighting the significance of after-school programs in providing safe and enriching environments for children. The proclamation underscores the commitment of the city to support quality after-school initiatives that contribute to the social and academic development of youth.

Lastly, the council celebrated the 25th anniversary of Las Esperanza, a grassroots organization dedicated to preserving the Mesquite Historic District. Founded by community members concerned about neighborhood conditions, Las Esperanza has successfully advocated for improvements and cultural preservation in the area. The anniversary celebration is set for October 26, 2024, and will include various community activities.

These proclamations reflect the city council's ongoing commitment to fostering community engagement, cultural appreciation, and support for local initiatives that enhance the quality of life in Las Cruces.