Last weekend's RioFest Environmental Film Festival wasn't just about watching flicks. About a dozen mostly local vendors were on hand during the two-day event to show ways people can be live more Earth-friendly — and often healthier — lives.

Donald Wolberg doesn't want to see Socorro Electric Cooperative member-owners "divorce" themselves from their board of trustees.

As one of three District 3 (Socorro) challengers who unseated incumbents in elections held last fall, Wolberg addressed the separation that has occurred between the board and the people it represents when the trustees met for their regular meeting on Jan. 27.

Two minds plus one great idea equals fun for the family this weekend.

The 14th annual Community Arts Party will be held Saturday, Feb. 6, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Finley Gym. Children and adults will have the opportunity, once again, to learn how to create different art projects thanks to the many local artists and volunteers who donate their time and talent to the community.

Socorro County elementary students will get educated on wildland fire prevention thanks to a $10,000 grant the county received through the Wildfire Risk Reduction Grant Program.

Assistant Emergency Service Administrator and Wildland Fire Coordinator Jerry Wheeler said the funding will be used to supply materials to elementary students countywide from kindergarten to third grade, and in some areas fourth- and fifth-graders. Students in Headstart programs, as well as those who are attending La Promesa Elementary School (which is within the Belen Consolidated School District but located in Socorro County) will also receive the same material.