Construction
New Mexico: University Ave Construction Affects Zia Middle School Traffic
2024-12-03
Las Cruces, New Mexico is witnessing the start of construction on University Avenue. The New Mexico Department of Transportation has announced these improvements between South Main Street and Avenida de Mesilla. This project is set to have a significant impact on the traffic near Zia Middle School and the surrounding neighborhoods. The first phase, which will last until mid-December, will mainly affect traffic at the intersection of University and Avenida de Mesilla. Parents are being advised to make necessary arrangements and be prepared for delays during school drop-off and pick-up times. However, Las Cruces Public Schools has assured that bus access to Zia Middle School will remain unhindered. NMDOT has stated that the aim of this project is to widen the existing two-lane roadway. It is a federally funded project that is expected to take 460 working days and cost just over $22 million. This construction work holds great importance for the local community and is expected to bring about several improvements in the area.

Enhancing Traffic Flow on University Avenue in Las Cruces

Impact on Zia Middle School and Neighbors

The construction on University Avenue is likely to cause disruptions in the daily lives of residents near Zia Middle School. With traffic being affected during school hours, parents need to plan their schedules carefully. The surrounding neighborhoods will also experience changes in traffic patterns, which may require some adjustments in daily commutes. However, efforts are being made to ensure that the impact on local residents is minimized as much as possible.

Details of the Project Phases

The first phase of the project, which will extend until mid-December, focuses on the intersection of University and Avenida de Mesilla. This phase is crucial as it will set the stage for the subsequent widening work. The federally funded nature of the project ensures that it meets certain standards and requirements. With an expected duration of 460 working days and a cost of just over $22 million, this is a significant undertaking that will bring about long-term benefits. The widening of the two-lane roadway is expected to improve traffic flow and safety in the area.

Assurances for Bus Access

One of the major concerns for parents and the local community was the impact on bus access to Zia Middle School. However, Las Cruces Public Schools has provided reassurances that bus services will remain unaffected. This is a crucial aspect as it ensures that students can continue to attend school without any disruptions. The transportation department has put in place measures to manage traffic during the construction period and ensure the smooth flow of buses. This gives parents some peace of mind and allows them to focus on their children's education.
Fourth-grader Rose Burke Lights Capitol Christmas Tree
2024-12-04
Rose Burke, a fourth-grader from Kenai, made history on Tuesday as she pressed the button to illuminate the Capitol Christmas Tree in Washington D.C. Standing beside her was U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson. Burke's remarkable achievement came after winning an essay contest, earning her the honor of lighting this grand symbol of the holiday season.

The Inspiring Story of a Fourth-Grader's Christmas Tree Lighting

Burke's Journey to the Spotlight

Rose Burke, a young student with a passion for writing and a love for Christmas, embarked on a journey that would lead her to this momentous occasion. Growing up in Kenai, she was always inspired by the magic of the holiday season. Her love for writing led her to participate in an essay contest, where she poured her heart and soul into her words. Her essay stood out among the rest, catching the attention of the judges and earning her the prestigious honor of lighting the Capitol Christmas Tree.

The Significance of Lighting the Tree

Lighting the Capitol Christmas Tree is a tradition that dates back many years. It symbolizes the spirit of the holiday and brings joy to people all over the country. For Rose Burke, this was not just a chance to light a tree, but a chance to make a difference. Her act of lighting the tree would be seen by millions of people around the world, inspiring them to spread love and kindness during the holiday season. It was a moment that would be etched in her memory forever.

The Impact on Burke and Her Community

For Rose Burke, lighting the Capitol Christmas Tree was a life-changing experience. It gave her a sense of pride and accomplishment that she will never forget. Her story has inspired students all over the country to pursue their dreams and believe in themselves. In her community of Kenai, her achievement has become a source of pride, showing that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. Rose Burke's story is a reminder that even the smallest act can have a big impact.
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Zomato Secures $1B in Post-2021 IPO Fundraise
2024-11-29
Indian food delivery app Zomato has made a significant move in the financial arena by raising $1 billion from institutional investors. This comes after its 2021 IPO and marks a crucial milestone in its growth journey. The food delivery and quick-commerce behemoth issued approximately 336.5 million shares priced at ₹252.62 each ($3) through a qualified institutional placement. This strategic fundraising saw strong participation from leading Indian mutual funds, with Motilal Oswal emerging as the largest investor, securing 20.81% of the shares. ICICI Prudential’s funds also played a significant role, acquiring 12.78%, while HDFC and Kotak funds followed with 8.68% and 5.95% respectively.

Strategic Shift in Zomato's Status

The $1 billion fundraise has strategically transformed Zomato's status to that of a "domestic" company. By pushing its foreign ownership below 50%, Zomato can now adopt an inventory-led model for its quick-commerce unit, Blinkit. This model gives the company direct control over products and warehousing, opening up new avenues for growth. It's a move that positions Zomato well in the highly competitive quick-commerce market.The timing of this capital raise is also highly strategic. Just weeks after rival Swiggy's $1.35 billion IPO, Zomato has managed to secure a substantial amount of funds. This shows its determination to stay ahead in the race and maintain its competitive edge. Another leading quick-commerce startup, Zepto, also secured $350 million this month in a deal brokered by Motilal Oswal.Shares of Swiggy were down 4.1% on Friday, capping this week's overall rally at 12.8%. Zomato's shares, offered to investors participating in the share placement at a 5% discount, were down roughly 1% on Friday but still remain up 127.7% year-to-date. With a market cap of about $30 billion, Zomato is clearly a force to be reckoned with.
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