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GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that she has made appointments to the Governor’s Task Force on Criminal Recidivism, the Mining Commission, and the Music Commission.

Press Release


Erik Ness, voice for N.M. agriculture industry, dies at 57

Erik Ness, a longtime champion of New Mexico`s agriculture industry, friend to politicians of every stripe, husband, father, grandfather and cowboy bon vivant, died Saturday at his Las Cruces home following a struggle with pancreatic cancer. He was 57.


Santa Fe imposes extra fire restrictions


SANTA FE, N.M. - Santa Fe is imposing extra fire restrictions earlier than it has in quite some time. The fire department said severe drought has the city in an "emergency situation."


Astorga sentence testimony gets personal

SANTA FE (KRQE) - Witnesses are on the stand again in the Michael Astorga death penalty hearing offering starkly different opinions on whether he should live or die.



Mayoral chaos in Sunland Park

Sunland Park councilors attempted to vote in a new mayor on Monday, but the meeting quickly spiraled out of control.


New Mexico`s new laws to take effect on Wednesday

SANTA FE — Public officials in New Mexico who commit a felony will have more to lose starting Wednesday.


NM Gov. Martinez: Romney, Obama both wrong on illegal immigration

SANTA FE — Susana Martinez is featured prominently in this week’s edition of Newsweek as the national magazine that in 2010 merged with the politically liberal website The Daily Beast runs a generally positive profile of the New Mexico governor.


Gov. Martinez`s PAC reports raising $77K in advance for NM legislative races


SANTA FE, N.M. — Gov. Susana Martinez`s political organization raked in more than $77,000 during a five-week period as she aims to make GOP gains in the New Mexico Legislature.


Report From the Attorney General

(SANTA FE)---It has been a busy and productive last two months at the Attorney General’s Office. The following is a snapshot of some of the work we have been involved in on your behalf.


05_14_12_Hiroshi Miyamura

Hiroshi "Hershey" Miyamura does his hometown of Gallup proud during the Korean War.  


05_15_12_Fort McRae

Built to protect travellers at the southern end of the Jornada del Muerto, Fort McRae had a short but colorful history.


05_16_12_First Territorial Capitol Building

Because of lack of funding and delays, the first Teritorial Government building built to replace the aging Palace of the Governors as the capitol never did serve that purpose.


05_17_12_Lozen

Chihenne (Warm Springs) Apache Victorio's sister Lozen was a shield to her people.


05_18_12_1889 Clayton Blizzard

An unexpected early fall blizzard in Clayton was one for the record books.


Piedra Vista wins at New Mexico state baseball tournament

ALBUQUERQUE — It took No. 1 Piedra Vista six innings to score one run against No. 16 Bernalillo a week ago. It took the Panthers one pitch to score against No. 9 Goddard on Thursday.


Gov. Martinez accompanying NM goodwill ambassadors on weeklong trip to promote the state


SANTA FE, N.M. — New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez is traveling to the East Coast and the South with a nonprofit civic group to promote the state.


White Supremacy on the Rise in New Mexico Jails

Albuquerque, NM – New Mexico`s prisons are seeing a rise in white supremacist gang memberships as some white inmates seek protection from largely Latino gangs, state officials say.


New scientific ghost town brings jobs to New Mexico


HOBBS, N.M. - Some new jobs are coming to New Mexico all thanks to a scientific ghost town. Lea County and Hobbs was chosen to house the Center for Innovation Testing and Evaluation, also called "CITE" for short.


Governor to Unveil New Statewide Fire Email Notification System Tomorrow

ALBUQUERQUE – Governor Susana Martinez will join Albuquerque Mayor Richard J. Berry, Housing for Emergency Evacuated and Displaced (HEED) Founder Kristin Derr, and New Mexico State Forester Tony Delfin in Albuquerque today at 10:30 AM at the Rio Grande Nature Center, 2901 Candelaria Rd NW in Albuquerque, to highlight ways government and non-profit organizations are reaching out to assist evacuees and keep New Mexicans informed during wildfire season. The Governor will be unveiling a new statewide fire e-mail notification system that New Mexicans can sign up for online in order to receive notices about fire activity in their area. Governor Martinez will also recognize the work done by HEED, a first-of-its-kind organization that got its start by helping displaced New Mexicans during last year’s record-setting fire season. HEED was created to offer temporary housing resources to individuals who are forced out of their homes during times of emergency. The Governor will encourage interested New Mexico families to sign up to serve as host homes.


05_07_12_Santa Fe Japanese Internment Camp

Internment of Japanese citizens during WWII is now seen as a national embarrassment.  However, no one interned at the Santa Fe camp lived in New Mexico before the war.  


05_08_12_Amelia Earhart in New Mexico

Pioneering aviatrix Amelia Earhart makes an unplanned and unnannounced landing in Hobbs during her first transcontinental solo flight.


05_09_12_John Donald Robb

A retired east coast lawyer comes west to head UNM's Music Department and preserves New Mexico's rich musical traditions for posterity with his tape recorder.


05_10_12_Hannett's Joke

New Mexico Governor Arthur T. Hannett gets his revenge on the Santa Fe Ring by rerouting Route 66 through Albuquerque instead of Santa Fe.  


05_11_12_Jim White and Carlsbad Caverns

Cowboy turned spelunker James Larkin White devotes his life to the exploration and promotion of Carlsbad Caverns.


NM Bootheel ranchers in fight with big landowner

CLOVERDALE, N.M.—Deep in New Mexico`s Bootheel along the U.S.-Mexico border sits a historic 500-square mile ranch once owned by William Randolph Hearst. Now called the Diamond A Ranch and operated by Seth Hadley, a descendant of Anheuser-Busch founder Adolphus Busch, the large holding that straddles the New Mexico-Arizona border has been called one of the "Last Great Places" by environmentalists for its focus on saving wildlife.


Libertarians pick ex-NM Gov. Johnson as candidate

Presidential nominee backs lower taxes and outlays, legal marijuana
TEL AVIV (MarketWatch) — Former New Mexico Gov. Gary Johnson was chosen on Saturday by the U.S. Libertarian Party as its candidate for president in the Nov. 6 election.


Walton`s headed to Lubbock

Former UNM quarterback Dustin Walton says he will transfer to Texas Tech. Walton told Eyewitness Sports 4 he plans to enroll this summer. Walton says he will sit out this upcoming season and still have three years of eligibility left.


New Mexico Attorney General takes on New Mexico Gas Company, defends customers

FARMINGTON - New Mexico Attorney General Gary King filed a petition Wednesday asking the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission to stop New Mexico Gas Company from cutting service to 71 customers in San Juan County.


Horse racing industry backs New Mexico reforms

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - The horse racing industry Wednesday lined up behind a proposal to adopt tougher oversight and penalties at New Mexico`s tracks, which were recently identified as having the worst safety record in the nation.


Man arrested in 1987 murder back in NM:

Ronald Brewington shot wife in the head
ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - A man wanted for a cold case from decades ago is back in New Mexico Thursday morning.


Energy saving measures at home save cash

Easy methods keep house comfortable for cheap
ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Your home is your biggest investment and it also takes a lot to keep it running comfortably. If you`re trying to save some money in the process, it`s sometimes the littlest things that can go a long way to save a buck.


$10.5 Million In Federal Grants For New Mexico Health Centers

Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced $10,459,315 in grants awarded to community health centers in New Mexico due to the new health care law – the Affordable Care Act. Grantees estimate these awards will help them serve approximately 5,500 new patients. A full list of New Mexico grantees can be found below.


N.M. Gov. Martinez`s grandfather was U.S. citizen

Documents show New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez`s grandfather came to the U.S. legally, removing a potential roadblock for the Republican mentioned as a possible running mate for Mitt Romney.


NM is in slog towards economic recovery

ALBUQUERQUE (AP) - New Mexico remains in a slog toward economic recovery.


04_30_12_Gagi the Monkey

Famous movie star Douglas Fairbanks presents the city of Albuquerque with the gift of a spider monkey movie star named Gagi.


05_01_12_Tolar

A train carrying supplies and munitions for the Pacific Theater in 1944 derails, catches fire, and explodes, leveling the town of Tolar, NM.


05_02_12_Giovanni Agostini the Hermit

The story of the man Hermit's Peak was named for and his mysterious death. 


05_03_12_Holloman Rocket Sled

Lt. Colonel John Paul Stapp takes the Sonic Wind 1 for a ride on the Holloman Rocket Sled Track in 1954 at 632 mph and sets a world manned land speed record that remains unbroken to this day.  


05_04_12_Pile of Papers

Territorial Governor William A. Pile decides to dispose of useless old Spanish and Mexican documents that turn out to be very important papers.


Alamogordo widow receives stranger`s ashes

As if losing her husband in a horrific plane crash was not enough, an Alamogordo widow said a Utah funeral home sent her the wrong ashes. Now she is on a mission to find her husband`s remains.


Texas man sentenced for starting NM wildfire with toilet paper

LAS CRUCES, N.M. (AP) - A Texas man has been sentenced to five years of probation and ordered to pay $2.7 million in restitution for starting a New Mexico wildfire with toilet paper that burned more than 53,000 acres in the Lincoln National Forest.


Georgia Handcuffing Of Kindergartner For Tantrum Renews School Policing Debate in New Mexico


ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — A New Mexico teacher asked a 13-year-old girl to stop talking with her friend and move to another seat. The girl refused. The teacher called the police.


New Mexico officials take steps to protect bridge across Santa Fe Trail

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Officials in New Mexico are taking steps to protect a bridge that once carried wagon trains and Union soldiers across the Santa Fe Trail.


Cat weighs in at 39 pounds; needs home

Foster family slimming tubby feline
SANTA FE (KRQE) - When she was a kitten, all seemed normal for Meow. Now she`s 2 and weighs the cat equivalent of a 600-pound human.


Family of girl killed in crash with Santa Fe doctor sues

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - The family of a little girl killed when her family`s van was hit by an SUV driven by a Santa Fe surgeon suspected of driving drunk has filed a wrongful death suit.


04_23_12_No Cow Cattle Company

A Clayton company is formed with the express purpose of providing a good time for area residents. 


04_24_12_Charlie McComas

The abduction of a young boy by Apaches sparks national outrage and an international search effort.


04_25_12_Charles Kennedy

Possibly New Mexico's first serial killer, Charles Kennedy ran an inn on the Taos to Mora road that many visitors never checked out of.


04_26_12_Francis Schlatter

A German cobbler has a vision from God and comes to New Mexico to heal the sick and afflicted.


04_27_12_Juan Miguel de la Cerda

A charismatic con-man of purported Brazialian heritage causes a big stir with tales of buried treasure.


Court rules online retailer owes NM sales tax

SANTA FE, N.M. - The state Court of Appeals has ruled a national online retailer must pay more than a half million dollars in taxes on sales of books, music and movies in New Mexico.


Crews search for abandoned baby`s mom

Couple dropped off child to authorities
ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - The 2-month-old baby boy left at an Albuquerque fire station is now in foster care while law enforcement and CYFD are trying to track down the baby`s mother.


Couple hands baby over to Albuquerque fire department

A couple showed up at an Albuquerque fire station on Wednesday, claiming they were stuck with a baby that is not theirs. A search is now underway for the baby boy`s mother.


Racing commission may consider stricter horse racing standards

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - The New Mexico Racing Commission may adopt stricter standards for racing and betting to help ensure the integrity of the sport.


U.S. Sen. Udall, state Rep. Stewart call for Citizens United Amendment

U.S. Senator Tom Udall, D-N.M., and state Rep. Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, were among the participants in a summit calling for a constitutional amendment to reverse the Supreme Court’s controversial Citizens United decision.


New Mexico racks up good revenue news

Incoming running $250 million ahead of projections
ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - After a crash in its income, New Mexico racked up the fourth-best increase nationally in total tax revenue during its 2011 fiscal year resulting in a boost of $500 million, the U.S. Census Bureau reports.


New mayor selected for New Mexico`s Sunland Park


SUNLAND PARK, N.M. - City councilors in the troubled New Mexico border city of Sunland Park have appointed a new mayor. By a 3-2 vote with one abstention Wednesday night, the council selected 24-year-old Javier Perea. He`ll be sworn in next week in the council`s next scheduled session.


Family finds 100-year-old Titanic newspaper in shed


TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES, N.M. - One hundred years after the Titanic sank to the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean, one Truth or Consequences family found and shared a piece of history linked to the catastrophic event.


Teacher `town hall` will tackle high NM dropout rate

A group of Albuquerque teachers are coming together to brainstorm a serious problem in schools. Wednesday night there will be a teacher ‘town hall’ meeting focused on the high school dropout crisis. In New Mexico, only 67 percent of students graduate.


State unveils New Mexico True ad campaign

Contracting, casting controversies dogged project
ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - After controversies about the public relations contractor and casting the actors for the state`s new tourism ads, taxpayers can see what they`re getting for their $2 million.


New Shrimp-Like Species Found in NM Cave

Scientists have discovered a new tiny shrimp-like species in a gypsum cave in southeastern New Mexico, only a few dozen miles from the famous caves at Carlsbad Caverns National Park.


First contract awarded for Navajo water project

GALLUP, N.M. (AP) - Federal officials say they have awarded the first construction contract for work on the massive federal Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project.


Kirtland water contamination efforts criticized

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Environmental officials in New Mexico called Kirtland Air Force Base’s efforts to determine the extent of jet fuel groundwater contamination inadequate and are demanding new monitoring wells to determine the risk to Albuquerque drinking water wells.


Officials expect wild hogs to make way to Dona Ana County; hogs are already in 17 NM counties


LAS CRUCES, N.M. — Wild hogs are likely on their way to Dona Ana County as the animals continue to spread across parts of New Mexico, federal officials said.


A new image starts with giving

The UNM football team spent its ninth spring practice of the year teaching kids the basics of football.


New Mexico political committee has received $190K from national labor union since last year

SANTA FE, N.M. — A new campaign finance report shows a national labor union continues to pour money into a New Mexico political action committee that`s critical of Republican Gov. Susana Martinez.


Horse slaughterhouse proposal under fire


Governor opposes proposal

ROSWELL, N.M. - A state official calls a proposal to open a horse slaughterhouse in Roswell repugnant, but the plan could ultimately get the green light because it`s still legal.


04_16_12_Decalogue Stone



04_17_12_USS New Mexico Battleship

The USS New Mexico was the Queen of the Pacific Fleet during two world wars.  


04_18_12_Cloudcroft Baby Sanitorium

The cool climate of Cloudcroft provided a welcome sanctuary for infants suffering from heat-related ailments back before the invention of air conditioning.  


04_19_12_White Oaks Stage Coach Robberies



04_20_12_Jack Thorp



Sunland Park meeting to open mayor position to public

After two months of chaos, Sunland Park is closer to getting a new mayor. Mayor Pro-Tem Isabel Santos tells News22 a meeting Thursday will officially open the mayoral position.


Panel asks state to ban animal traps in New Mexico

FARMINGTON — Ninety percent of New Mexico residents believe trapping should be banned on public lands, according to a report released today by a panel of seven New Mexico citizens.


Al Unser Jr. pleads guilty in drunken driving case


Racing legend avoids jail time

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - Racing legend Al Unser Jr. pleaded guilty Wednesday to drunken driving and drag racing. Unser was arrested late in 2011 and accused of racing at 100 mph on Paseo del Norte.


President Obama holds lead over Romney in New Mexico


President Barack Obama continues to hold a double-digit lead over Mitt Romney among New Mexico voters in the race for president, but a solid lead for the president means New Mexico could be out of the spotlight on the stage of national politics.


Former New Mexico woman gets 20-plus years in prison for May 2010 murder plot in Saginaw

SAGINAW, MI — If it weren`t for Brittany R. Falconer, Dion Smith and his family never would have been beaten, tortured, and robbed in May 2010, Smith said today. Smith, 43, told Saginaw County Circuit Judge James T. Borchard this morning that Falconer, now 21, lured him into a near murder trap.


Drug-Resistant Bacteria Found in 4-Million-Year-Old Cave

Microbes from pristine areas can battle modern medicine, study says.
Deep in the bowels of a pristine New Mexico cave, microbiologists have discovered nearly a hundred types of bacteria that can fight off modern antibiotic drugs.


New Solar Array Dedicated in New Mexico

With the addition of a new 1.5 megawatt (MW) solar array, anticipated to be completed in May 2012, all businesses and residences in north central New Mexico will receive electricity provided by solar power on sunny days. It is the largest area of land with the largest number of power consumers in New Mexico to be supplied with electricity by renewable sources, according to a news release. The 14-acre array will add to power already being generated from the concentrated photovoltaic 1 MW array built near Questa, N.M.


Former Lobo, soccer star Patrick Grange dies from ALS at 29

Diagnosed with ALS in 2010 Pat Grange loses battle
ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Former Lobo and Albuquerque High School soccer star Patrick Grange , diagnosed with ALS Lou Gehrig disease in 2010, died Tuesday. He was 29-years-old.


New Mexico graduation rates may drop again


An already low graduation rate for New Mexico may be dropping even lower. Under a federal mandate, the state is changing how graduation rates will be calculated.


New $133 Million Available for Race to Top Early Learning Grants

The five states that narrowly missed winning a slice of the Race to the Top Early Learning Challenge Fund will get a chance to compete for $133 million in new money, the U.S. Department of Education announced today. Eligible for this round: Colorado, Illinois, New Mexico, Oregon, and Wisconsin.


Santorum Drops Out of Presidential Race

GOP candidate Rick Santorum, appearing with his wife and children in his home state of Pennsylvania, told supporters today the race for him was over, but the fight to defeat President Barack Obama would go on.
GETTYSBURG, Pa. (AP) -- Bowing to the inevitable, Rick Santorum quit the presidential campaign Tuesday, clearing the way for Mitt Romney to claim the Republican nomination.


Gov. Martinez shuts V.P door

(CNN) – She often makes the list of potential Republican vice presidential picks, but if asked to serve in the No. 2 spot, New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez said her answer would be "no."


Who will be mayor in Sunland Park?


SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (AP) - Sunland Park city councilors are expected to make a decision regarding the vacant mayor`s seat as mayor-elect Daniel Salinas faces extortion and bribery charges.


Campaigns get boost from out-of-state contributions

Out-of-state corporate money made an appearance in state campaign finance reports Monday as state lawmakers and other candidates listed sources for their cash.


New Residency Requirement Targets Nonmembers, Angers Pueblo of Isleta

A recent ordinance enacted by New Mexico’s Pueblo of Isleta has sparked controversy among tribal members, and prompted at least one family to leave the Pueblo.


Heather Wilson Fundraising With Alaska`s Lisa Murkowski For New Mexico Senate Race

Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski is flying from Alaska all the way to New Mexico to hold a fundraiser for fellow Republican Rep. Heather Wilson. Republicans are hoping Wilson will be able to take over a U.S. Senate seat for the party in that state.


Seeking a free pass in election

Elections are like an all-you-can-eat buffet — the more choices, the better. Unfortunately, the fallout from a bill passed unanimously last year by the state Legislature is threatening to limit the choices available to voters this June in the primary election and November in the general election; as well as end the careers of numerous legislative leaders.


04_13_12_1883 Tertio Millennial

No one was quite sure what happened in 1550, but the folks in Santa Fe made big plans to celebrate the 333rd anniversary of it anyway.


04_09_12_Belen Train Robbery

Bronco Bill Walters and Kid Johnson pull off one of the most lucrative train robberies in New Mexico history, sort of.


04_10_12_Johnson vs Flynn Fight

This much ballyhooed boxing match of 1912 didn't turn out so well.


04_11_12_People Born in Space

Former residents of Santa Rita try to fill a void in their lives.  


04_12_12_Gorras Blancas

Disenfranchised citizens of the Las Vegas land grant turn to night riding and fence destruction to keep their way of life.  


State Supreme Court to weigh in on ballot issue

State high court to decide whether some candidates should be disqualified for missing info
New Mexico`s top court is wading into the controversy over what information is required for a candidate to qualify for the June primary election ballot.


Santa Fe Police officer faces ten different criminal charges

A former Santa Fe Police Department officer is facing some serious criminal charges.


04_02_12_Gallup Gamerco Strike

A workers' strike of the Gamerco mines in Gallup turns violent, resulting in the largest number of people ever arrested and tried for a single murder.


Mom of Baby Brianna sparks petition

Baby Brianna was raped, bitten and murderedALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Governor Martinez along with people around the country are upset that an infamous mom behind perhaps the most brutal child-abuse case in New Mexico history, will get out almost 13 years early.


Missing soldiers, 5 other kayakers located in Gila

SILVER CITY By 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, both of the missing soldiers from Fort Bliss and one of the soldier`s fiance were out of the Gila National Forest after they had failed to return on time from a kayaking trip on the Gila River.


New Mexico-born boy presumed dead from starvation


Police say child`s father, stepmother are suspects

DALLAS - Dallas police said a boy from New Mexico was starved to death, possibly as long as a year ago. Investigators said 11-year-old Jonathan Ramsey was locked in his bedroom and fed bread, water and sometimes milk as punishment.


Western ski resorts wrapping up unpredictable season with widely varying snow totals


Western ski resorts are wrapping up one of the most unusual and unpredictable snow seasons in recent memory.


NM Sen. Rod Adair withdraws from primary election

Sen. Bill Burt will run unopposed
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - Republican Sen. Rod Adair of Roswell says he is not seeking re-election and is withdrawing as a candidate in the June primary election.


Governor Susana Martinez to Speak at New Mexico Quality Awards Today

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will attend and speak at the New Mexico Quality Awards today in Albuquerque, recognizing organizations that have made an outstanding commitment to making a positive impact in their fields and on the lives of New Mexicans. Recipients include organizations in both the public and private sectors, ranging from non-profits caring for New Mexico’s most vulnerable to job creators that are putting people back to work.


Missing Cannon AFB Lt. found safe in California

The Cannon Air Force Base lieutenant who has been missing from Clovis since March 12 has been found safe in California. 1st Lt. Scott Lee reported to Travis Air Force Base, Calif., April 2, and is now en route back to Cannon AFB, Air Force officials said.


Men arrested after deputy finds calf in backseat

CARLSBAD, N.M.—New Mexico authorities have arrested three men found with a 220-pound calf in the backseat of their car. The Carlsbad Current Argus reports that the men are accused of cattle rustling. They were jailed on charges of suspicion of larceny of livestock, conspiracy, lack of a bill of sale and exporting livestock.


Albuquerque firefighters win Mega Millions lottery


Firefighters claim $10,000 Mega Millions prize; plan to donate to colleague in need of brain surgery

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - A group of Albuquerque firefighters who became Mega Millions winners this week said they`re donating money to help save the life of one of their own.


Governor Susana Martinez to Kick Off Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Month in Las Cruces

Las Cruces - Governor Susana Martinez will join Children, Youth, and Families Department Secretary Yolanda Deines in Las Cruces today to kick off Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Month in New Mexico. Governor Martinez will read to children at the Children’s Garden Child Development Center and provide workbooks to kids about child safety. Governor Martinez and Secretary Deines will also speak about how the community can help recognize and combat child abuse.


04_03_12_The Montezuma Hotel

This fire-prone hotel built on the site of the Las Vegas Hot Springs on the Gallinas river still stands today, and is now home to a branch campus of the United World College


04_04_12_Elephant Butte Dam

Construction on this dam at the time of statehood tamed flooding on the lower Rio Grande and continues to provide irrigation and electric power.


04_05_12_Oliver Lee

A good man or a bad man?  Although he has a state park named after him, the jury is still out on Oliver Lee.


04_06_12_Cattle Mutilations

Although "officially" attributed to natural causes, cattle mutilations are still a mysterious phenomenon.


Family Ties: Alford’s Son Heading to N.M.

Bryce Alford will keep it all in the family at New Mexico. The son of New Mexico coach Steve Alford, Bryce has committed to the Lobos and will play for his father as a guard in the class of 2013. He is a four-star performer at the two spot, according to Rivals.com, but he has been deemed a combo guard by some due to his 6-foot-3 stature and scoring prowess.


Lucha libre using immigration to attract US fans


Lucha libre — or "free wrestling" in Spanish — is a brand of Mexican wrestling that dates to the 1930s. The sport came north to the United States along with Mexican immigrants, and over the years it has spawned clubs in U.S. cities with large Latino communities.


Tuberculosis rates stay steady in New Mexico

FARMINGTON - While tuberculosis cases across the country declined in 2011, the number of cases in New Mexico stayed the same. There were 10,500 cases of active tuberculosis nationwide in 2011, a 6 percent decrease from the year before.


Boulder ultrarunner Micah True missing after going on run in New Mexico

Micah True, an ultrarunner and legend among Boulder runners, is missing in New Mexico after going out for a run Tuesday morning, according to officials.


New law may rekindle New Mexico chile industry

New Mexico Chile Advertising Act enforcement begins July 1
The challenges remain — cheaper foreign imports, a 73-percent crop acreage decline in the last 20 years, crop diseases, and farm labor uncertainties — which point to continued tests for the New Mexico chile pepper industry. A new piece of legislation may help rekindle prosperity for the New Mexico chile industry.


Spaceport America’s current and future operations

Since NASA announced the Space Shuttle’s retirement, private companies have stepped up to bring in a new era of spaceflight.


Water to flow in dry Rio Grande riverbed soon


Warning for people who recreate in riverbed below Caballo Resevoir

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - The Rio Grande has been dry in areas below the Caballo Resevoir for several months but that will change on Sunday.


San Juan County officials expect difficult fire season

FARMINGTON - A 5-acre brush fire Saturday on the south side of Farmington has local firefighting organizations girding for what could be an explosive fire season. Dozens of small brush fires in the past two weeks have broken out across San Juan County, and officials warn residents that they need to take precautions when burning.


NM mayor-elect seeks court`s help to take office


LAS CRUCES, N.M. (AP) — The mayor-elect of a troubled New Mexico border town is turning to the state Supreme Court to help get him into office. The high court scheduled arguments Tuesday on the request by Daniel Salinas, who has been barred from taking office in Sunland Park by the terms of his release from jail. He faces charges that he tried to force an opponent out of the mayoral race with a secretly taped video of the other man getting a topless lap dance.


03_28_12_Stephen Elkins' Famous Handshake

For want of nail, a shoe was lost. . . . because of an ill-timed handshake, New Mexico statehood was set back 39 years.  


Evacuations lifted in Chimayo fire

One home burned
CHIMAYO, N.M. (KRQE) - Evacuations have been lifted Monday morning after Sunday’s blaze burned around 20-acres near Chimayo.


Albuquerque doctor resigns as leader of New Mexico health care reform office

SANTA FE, N.M. — An Albuquerque physician appointed by Gov. Susana Martinez to a state office overseeing health care reform in New Mexico has resigned.


Rally in Albuquerque Monday to remember Florida teen Trayvon Martin

There will be a vigil Monday night in Albuquerque marking the one-month anniversary of the death of Trayvon Martin, the unarmed Florida teen who was killed by a neighborhood watchman as he walked in a gated community.


Ice fishing in New Mexico a seasoned pastime

Fishing rod, tackle box and lawn chair in hand — ready to go ice fishing. But wait, what was that sound? Stepping onto a frozen lake for the first time, the nerves get an auditory shock from hearing loud cracks with the recoil echoing around.


City Requires $100K Insurance For Pit Bulls


Rottweilers, German Shepherds Also Must Be Insured

ELEPHANT BUTTE, N.M. -- One New Mexico town is requiring owners of pit bulls, rottweilers and German shepherds to get special liability insurance.


03_30_12_Charles Lummis

19th Century adventurer and magazine writer Charles Lummis exploited New Mexican cultures for fortune and fame, made a few enemies in the process, and poisoned the well for future ethnographers.  


03_29_12_Mysterious Balloon Over Galisteo Junction

The first published report of a UFO over New Mexico skies.


03_27_12_George Curry

Former Territorial Governor George Curry lived and made history in New Mexico.


03_26_12_New Mexico Rough Riders

New Mexican members of Teddy Roosevelt's Rough Riders serve with valor in Cuba during the Spanish American War.  


Fierro`s punishment linked to TV interview

High profile prisoner Carlos Fierro is in solitary confinement and will have 90 days tacked onto his prison term after a New Mexico Corrections Department investigation found him guilty of unauthorized use of telephones, email and fax machines.


Coyote hunting under fire in New Mexico

FARMINGTON - The Farmington chapter of Sportsmen for Fish and Wildlife last weekend hosted a coyote-calling contest that attracted 22 hunters and protest from a state wildlife protection group.


Medical marijuana producer is state Senate candidate

SANTA FE -- The state Department of Health keeps secret the names of the 25 providers it has licensed to sell medical marijuana, but one of them has put himself smack in the public eye. He is Charles "Blacke" Rountree, owner of the marijuana company GrassRoots Rx. In addition to being a provider of medical marijuana, he is a candidate for the New Mexico State Senate.


Pinch of rising gas prices felt at home

BERNALILLO, N.M. (AP) - New Mexicans have joined those in other states in their irritation over the rising cost of gasoline.


New Mexico centennial -- and a call for `light-skinned Hispanic`

New Mexico was planning to celebrate its statehood centennial by inviting tourists to come experience the state`s rich culture, take in its extraordinary views and have epic outdoor adventures. But the Land of Enchantment`s promotion hit a snag, raising questions about who exactly is being represented in the celebration -- and reviving historical insecurities.


Elections bring major facelift in NM Legislature

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - The New Mexico Legislature is poised for its most dramatic facelift in two decades as near record numbers of House and Senate members have decided to retire or seek another office.


Area will have four state races

Eastern New Mexico voters will have a quartet of primary elections for the New Mexico Legislature, but only one contested race once the general election comes around.


Redistricting effects evident on state ballots

Five Northern N.M. lawmakers pick up opponents in races
Rep. Nick Salazar of Ohkay Owingeh watched as names flashed across a monitor at the New Mexico Secretary of State`s Office on Tuesday. Each name represented a candidate filing papers to run for elective office somewhere in New Mexico. But Salazar, the longest-serving member of the New Mexico Legislature, was focused on three names in particular -- the trio of opponents he had picked up in his quest to serve a 20th term in the New Mexico House of Representatives.


High school students must pass new exam to receive diploma

Getting a high school diploma is about to get a little harder. This month, students across New Mexico will take a test that will determine whether they will walk away with a diploma or just a certificate.


Sunland Park mayor-elect now in jail

Sunland Park mayor-elect Daniel Salinas is now in jail after turning himself in late Monday in Las Cruces. Salinas faces charges of charges of bribery.


Governor Susana Martinez to Greet President Obama in Roswell

ROSWELL – Governor Susana Martinez will welcome President Barack Obama to New Mexico when he arrives at Roswell International Air Center today at approximately 5pm at the Roswell International Air Center.


Bingaman on President Obama`s Trip to NM

US Senator Jeff Bingaman comments on the President`s visit to New Mexico this week.


Bingaman: Invest Act Needs Adjustments

Bingaman comments on the House of Representative`s small business jobs bill that is before the Senate this week.


Bingaman Talks Transportation Reauthorization Legislation

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman talks about the highway and transit reauthorization bill the Senate passed last week and about how it will benefit New Mexico.


Obama to visit NM oil fields

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - With gas prices on the rise, President Barack Obama is making a stop in New Mexico`s oil fields Wednesday to tout the fact that domestic oil and gas production is at an all-time high.


Chaco Canyon design on new U.S. quarter

SANTA FE (KSFR) - The U.S. Mint is preparing to issue a new 25-cent piece that features the Chaco Culture National Historical Park. The new quarter will be the second of 2012 and the 12th overall in the America the Beautiful Quarters Program.


Manning Era in Denver is Officially Under Way

DENVER -- Peyton Manning will wear his familiar No. 18 next season for the Denver Broncos. The Denver Broncos introduced Manning as their new starting quarterback at a news conference Tuesday afternoon. Manning earlier reached agreement on a five-year, $96 million contract on Tuesday, a league source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.


White Sands Missile Range commander visits NMSU UAS hangar for familiarization tourShare

Brig. Gen. John G. Ferrari, commanding general, White Sands Missile Range, visited the New Mexico State University Physical Science Lab and Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Hangar for a familiarization tour last week.


No more `pink slime` in NM school lunches as of July

The New Mexico Health and Human Services Department tells KOB Eyewitness News 4 that as of July, no public schools in New Mexico will receive meat with pink slime in it.


Photo: NFL’s Tommy McDonald returns to Highland High

NFL great and Highland High School graduate Tommy McDonald was recognized today as a member of the Hometown Hall of Famers.


Report Shows Decline In NM Grad Rates


ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Arizona and New Mexico have both reduced the number of their dropout factories - those high schools with chronically low graduation rates.


NM gets habitat protection for frog

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) - The federal government is designating more than 10,000 acres of critical habitat for a rare spotted frog found in Arizona and New Mexico.


City takes another step toward public safety campus

LAS CRUCES — It`s going to cost the city $100. But the return in peace of mind and quality of life for Las Cruces residents has the chance to be priceless. There was little discussion Monday from the seven-member Las Cruces city council as it unanimously adopted a resolution that authorizes city government staff members to complete and submit a lease application to the Bureau of Land Management that could lead to the city`s acquisition of as much as 350 acres of East Mesa land.


New Mexico candidates for the Legislature, PRC and other offices face filing deadline


SANTA FE, N.M. — Longtime Democratic state Sen. Pete Campos of Las Vegas is drawing an opponent in this year`s primary election.


NMAG Comments Regarding Michael Souter Fraud Case



03_19_12_Beaubien Miranda Land Grant

The last of the pre-territorial land grants was steeped in controversy.


03_20_12_Lucien Maxwell

The story of an iconic figure in New Mexico history.


03_21_12_Colfax County War

The sale of Lucien Maxwell's estate, formerly known as the Beaubien-Miranda Land Grant, takes a violent turn at the end of the 19th century.  


03_22_12_Edmund Ross

Once the most reviled man in the United States over a controversial senate vote, former New Mexico Territorial Governor Edmund Ross led a quieter life in Albuquerque.  


03_23_12_Coronado Cuarto Centennial

New Mexico has a grand party in 1940 to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Coronado's entrada into the Southwest.  


Rogue divorce lawyer caught on tape breaking into house

KOB Eyewitness News 4 has obtained exclusive surveillance video that shows why one New Mexico lawyer has been sentenced to jail. The video obtained as part of a 4 On Your Side Investigation shows divorce lawyer and past Otero County Bar Association President Raymond Van Arnam helping a client raid a house where her estranged husband was living


Alberson pursues New Mexico Senate seat

LAS CRUCES — Cathey Alberson, a Republican, has announced her intention to run for the New Mexico Senate in District 37.


DWI deaths are up in New Mexico

The state will have another DWI Supeblitz
ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - On Tuesday the state released new facts that show drunk driving related deaths in New Mexico are up.


XCEL ENERGY COMPLETES RELIABILITY UPGRADES IN NEW MEXICO

Xcel Energy has completed $1.6 million in upgrades to boost reliability in Portales , New Mexico, after record cold weather in the early months of 2011 stressed sections of the city’s distribution system.


New Mexico sounds rabies alarm

One of the most concentrated rabies outbreaks in decades
Calling it “one of the most concentrated outbreaks of rabies in decades”, New Mexico State Health Department officials have sanctioned door-to-door site visits to farms and ranches in rural areas of Eddy County in deep Southern New Mexico and are recommending selective livestock vaccinations after 32 animals have tested positive for rabies since January, and at least a dozen people are undergoing treatment for possible exposure to the deadly virus.


03_16_12_Villista Raid on Columbus

Pancho Villa's men attacked the town of Columbus New Mexico in the pre-dawn hours of March 9, 1916.  Why did they do it?  It's still a mystery.


Two dead, two wounded following night of violent crimes in Gallup

Two shooting victims have died following a string of violent crimes in Gallup Monday night. Gallup police say two people -- aged about 15 and 40 -- were shot around 7:30 p.m. near Dairy Drive and Patton Drive. One was treated at a local hospital while another was flown to University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque.


William Nolan Jr., Murphy Oil Corp. chairman and Noalmark Broadcasting Corp. president, dies

EL DORADO, Ark. — Murphy Oil Corp. says the chairman of its board, William C. Nolan Jr., has died following a brief illness. He was 72.


Family Seeks Medal Of Honor For NM Hero


ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- The family of a local war hero is fighting on his behalf to get the Medal of Honor.


Documentary honors prisoners of Santa Fe World War II internment camp

When journalist Neil Simon became interested in Santa Fe`s World War II internment camp after hearing about a City Council debate on a historical marker for it, he thought for sure someone else already would have done a book or a movie about it.


Native women push for better access to Plan B

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. -- Micha Bitsinnie and her husband weren`t ready to have another baby just eight months after the birth of their daughter. So when she forgot to take her birth control pills for a couple of days, she sought emergency contraception.


Bingaman: Rising Oil Prices Not Country`s Fault


Sen. Jeff Bingaman Says Residents Must Cut Back Oil Use

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- New Mexico Sen. Jeff Bingaman said the rising cost of gasoline is not the country`s fault.


Fans react as Lobos enter NCAA Tourney

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Excitement among Lobo fans has been growing all season long and based on this weekend it is just beginning.




NMSU closing its soil, water, ag testing lab

LAS CRUCES, N.M. (AP) - The soil, water and agriculture testing laboratory at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces will close by the end of June because larger private labs can do the same work more efficiently.


Governor Susana Martinez to Attend Event to Stop Child Hunger in New Mexico

Governor Susana Martinez will join the Children, Youth and Families Department, New Mexico Appleseed, the City of Albuquerque, and the USDA in an effort to combat child hunger in New Mexico through a program to help feed school-age children in need over the summer. Today at the South Broadway Cultural Center (1025 South Broadway Blvd., SE), Governor Martinez, CYFD Secretary Yolanda Deines, and Mayor Richard Berry will speak at the premiere of New Mexico Appleseed’s new short film, Summer Hunger beginning at 11am.


03_12_12_The Long Walk

General Carleton sends Kit Carson to round up the Navajo and march them 400 miles through snow storms to Bosque Redondo.  


03_13_12_Bosque Redondo

General Carleton's plan to put Apaches and Navajos together on a Pecos River reservation turns out to be a major disaster.  


03_14_12_Railroad Race to Raton

The Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe and the Denver and Rio Grande railroads race to stake their claims on the strategic Raton Pass.


03_15_12_Uncle Dick Wooten

Dick Wooten came west to be a mountain man and hunt and trap.  He built a toll road at Raton Pass and lived happily ever after.  


Missing hiker and her cat found in Gila

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - An Albuquerque woman who’d been missing for nearly a month was found Wednesday alive, but barely. Search and rescue crews say they found Margaret Page, 41, in the Gila National Forest and she wasn’t alone. They also found Page’s cat, who never left the woman’s side.


School bus thief shot by officers

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - A man is in the hospital after he stole one school bus drove it into a ditch before stealing another school bus, ultimately leading police on a high speed chase and finally crashing near the river in Albuquerque.


New Mexico in Focus Discusses Life after the Legislature with Two Retiring Senators


This week on New Mex­ico in Focus, two retir­ing state sen­a­tors talk about what is behind their deci­sion to step away from the leg­is­la­ture. It has become a pop­u­lar move, as one-sixth of the N.M. Sen­ate has cho­sen to retire. In the House of Rep­re­sen­ta­tives, still more elected offi­cials are resign­ing, either alto­gether or to seek higher office.


ABQ metro area could own nation’s energy exchange

ABQ area electricity exchange could establish an international trading center for renewables
Albuquerque and Rio Rancho are top contenders to house a command-and-control center and a trading exchange to broker the selling of renewable energy nationwide on behalf of the planned Tres Amigas Super Station near Clovis.


NMSU awarded $5 million

Big Plans are in store for New Mexico State University since Governor Susana Martinez signed the bill to supply the campus with $5 million.



State Sen. Steve Fischmann won`t seek second term

LAS CRUCES - After a four-year run in the New Mexico Legislature, state Sen. Steve Fischmann is ready to move on.


UNM Lobo Super Fan Heads To Las Vegas Game


`The King` Has Been Watching Home Games For 15 Years

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- The Lobo Nation is mobilizing as many University of New Mexico supporters make the trip to Las Vegas for the Mountain West Tournament, and in a sea of rabid students, one passionate supporter stands out.


Pipe Bomb Closes Civic Plaza Drive

The state police bomb team has detonated what was apparently a pipe bomb. According to sketchy details we`ve received a man drove to Taos Police headquarters yesterday morning saying there was a bomb attached to his truck.


Federal prisoners on the move from Sandoval County

KOB Eyewitness News 4 has learned that nearly 200 prisoners are being moved out of the Sandoval County Detention Center.



NMED Secretary calls for LANL cleanup funds

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - New Mexico Environment Secretary David Martin and a delegation of New Mexico leaders were in Washington this week pushing for more money to cleanup toxic waste at Los Alamos National Laboratory.


Gov. vetoes close to $23M in projects

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - The New Mexico Legislature asked Governor Susana Martinez for $147 funding for nearly 500 statewide projects.



Governor, Mayor Berry to Discuss Importance of Paseo/I-25 Funding in Capital Outlay Legislation

ALBUQUERQUE – Governor Susana Martinez will be joined by Mayor Richard Berry, Department of Transportation Secretary Alvin Dominguez, and a bi-partisan group of Albuquerque-area legislators today at 1:30pm to discuss her plans to sign capital outlay legislation that includes a $30 million commitment to upgrade the interchange at Paseo del Norte and I-25 in Albuquerque. The announcement will be held at the Don Newton Community Center, 4900 Kachina St. NW, Albuquerque.


03_05_12_Ojo del Oso

General Stephen Kearny sends Colonel Alexander Doniphan into unknown territory to negotiate the first of many peace treaties with the Navajo at Ojo del Oso (Bear Springs).


03_06_12_Narbona

Elderly Navajo headman Narbona, long known as a man of peace, is senselessly killed by U.S. troops.


03_07_12_Henry Dodge

Henry Dodge was a transformative and calming figure in U.S. - Navajo relations.  


03_08_12_Navajo War of 1858

The killing of Major William Brook's slave at Fort Defiance by a Navajo sparks an all-out campaign against the tribe.


03_09_12_Navajo War of 1860-61

Colonel Edward Canby leads a coordinated campaign to trap the Navajo in Marsh Pass; but the onset of the Civil War stymies U.S. efforts to pacify the tribe.  


UNM`s Gordon accused of smoking marijuana

This week Sports Illustrated profiles the recent downfall of UCLA basketball. Among the reasons listed is a freshman class that included current UNM forward Drew Gordon. The article claims Gordon was among the group that smoked marijuana, sometimes before practice, while at UCLA.


Governor Susana Martinez to Sign Veteran-Related Legislation at NM National Guard

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will sign legislation that will expand the definition of a veteran under state statute to include members of the New Mexico National Guard and Reserve units for the purpose of being eligible for state veterans benefits. The Governor will also sign two bills that will put a check box on certain state forms in order to allow New Mexicans to make donations to the Veterans’ Enterprise Fund, which helps pay for veteran’s projects throughout the state. Governor Martinez will be joined by Department of Veterans Services Secretary Tim Hale as well as members of the New Mexico National Guard at The New Mexico National Guard (47 Bataan Blvd in Santa Fe) at 1:30pm.


Gutierrez won`t seek re-election

SANTA FE -- State Rep. Joni Gutierrez will not run for re-election so that she can seek the job that she says is a good fit for her interests, Democratic national committeewoman.


NM honors Taos Pueblo potter Virginia T. Romero


TAOS PUEBLO, N.M. (AP) – There were no clouds in the sky. The view toward Taos` snow-capped mountains was unobstructed, the sun was warm and a bald eagle soared overhead.


Lone Ranger Set To Film In New Mexico


Blockbuster Movie Builds Sets, Casts Extras

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- One of the silver screen`s legendary cowboys is set to ride again, with New Mexico serving as a backdrop.


New Mexico receives nearly $12M for leases for oil, natural gas production on state land

SANTA FE, N.M. - The New Mexico State Land Office says a monthly sale of oil and natural gas leases has brought in nearly $12 million.


02_27_12_The Lost Gold Mine of Padre Larue

New Mexico's most enduring treasure tale.


02_28_12_Doc Noss and Victorio Peak 1

Milton "Doc" Noss purports to have found a vast cavern filled with treasure in Victorio Peak.


02_29_12_Doc Noss and Victorio Peak 2

Part 2 of the ongoing saga of the lost treasure of Victorio Peak.


03_01_12_Doc Noss and Victorio Peak 3

The saga of the lost treasure of Victorio Peak continues.


03_02_12_Doc Noss and Victorio Peak 4 - Epilog

The final chapter (or is it?) in this treasure tale.  


Woman faces extradition back to U.S. for 1995 kidnapping

There are big developments in the case of a mother accused of kidnapping her three kids from Albuquerque 17 years ago.


UNM parking: Cash and conflicting laws

ALBUQUERUQE (KRQE) - Everyone knows that parking at the University of New Mexico is difficult.


City To Turn Sewer Water Into Drinking Water


RIO RANCHO, N.M. -- A $9 million project in Rio Rancho aims to turn sewer water into drinking water.


New Mexico Won`t Use a Straight-Ticket Device in November 2012 Election

On February 24, New Mexico Secretary of State Diana J. Durbin noted that New Mexico`s election code does not have any authorization for a straight-ticket device on general election ballots, and she declared “I will follow the law”. Since the law does not provide for a straight-ticket device, she won’t provide for one.


Sunland Park mayor hopeful: Sex tape was blackmail

SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (AP) - A Sunland Park mayoral candidate says an unidentified man threatened to blackmail him by releasing a video of a topless woman dancing for him if he didn`t drop out of the race.


Gay Santa Fe hair stylist refuses to cut Gov. Martinez` hair

Governor Susana Martinez has lost a hair stylist thanks to her position against gay marriage.


IMPORTANT AGO NEWS CONFERENCE TODAY AT 10:30 AM

New Mexico Attorney General Gary King announces indictments against two defendants for fraud and conspiracy involving Santa Fe St. Vincent Hospital. A news conference will be held at 10:30am at the Attorney General`s office in Albuquerque at 111 Lomas NW (3rd floor).


Explosion demolishes Durango home, injures 3

DURANGO, CO - An investigation is underway near Durango this morning after a gas explosion demolished a home Tuesday night.


UPDATE: New Mexico State Police seize Sunland Park records

SUNLAND PARK - New Mexico State Police, armed with a search warrant, vacated Sunland Park City Hall on Tuesday so investigators could comb through city records.


Martinez signs corruption bill

Governor Susana Martinez signed the bill that allows judges to force convicted elected officials to pay back their salary and pension going back to the time they committed the crime.


Taos Fire Department to keep fighting to pass fireworks law

The New Mexico Legislature effectively killed a bill last week (Feb. 7) that would have given local authorities the power to restrict or ban the sale of fireworks during high-risk fire seasons.


Governor to Attend Go Red Event in Albuquerque Today

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will attend the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women Luncheon in Albuquerque today. Go Red for Women is a national campaign to increase awareness of heart disease affecting women in New Mexico and across the country. The Governor will also sign House Bill 33, sponsored by Rep. Conrad James (R-Albuquerque) and Sen. Howie Morales (D-Silver City), allowing New Mexico hospitals to be designated as stroke centers and increase the quality of care they are able to provide to stroke victims, especially in rural areas.


Governor to Sign Anti-Corruption Legislation at Metro Courthouse This Afternoon

ALBUQUERQUE – Governor Susana Martinez will sign Senate Bill 197 this afternoon at 3:00pm at the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Courthouse in Albuquerque (401 Lomas Blvd. NW). SB 197, sponsored by Sen. Bill Payne (R-Albuquerque), will allow judges to impose additional financial penalties on public officials who are convicted of corruption, including the cost of the official`s public pension.


02_20_12_Battle of Mesilla

The opening battle in the Civil War in New Mexico goes to the Confederates.


02_21_12_Exploding Mules

A suicide mission backfires.


02_22_12_Battle of Valverde

A decisive victory for the Confederate forces in southern New Mexico.


02_23_12_Battle of Glorieta

The Confederates won the second battle, but lost their supply train and the war.


02_24_12_Confederate Cannons

Confederate troops buried cannons during their retreat from New Mexico.  Where are they today?


NMAGO: What National Mortgage Settlement Means to NM

Thursday morning in Santa Fe, New Mexico Attorney General Gary King explained what the pending national settlement with mortgage servicers means for New Mexico homeowners. AG King detailed who is eligible, how much money is involved, and where New Mexico homeowners can find more information.


EPA issues decision on NM coal plant permit

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency wants state regulators to clarify some requirements in the operating permit for the coal-fired San Juan Generating Station in northwest New Mexico.


Alan Jackson announces April 14 concert at Pan Am Center

LAS CRUCES - Country superstar Alan Jackson is coming to the Pan American Center. The 17-time ACM Award winner, 16-time CMA Award recipient, two-time Grammy-honored artist and 2011 inductee into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame will visit the Las Cruces venue on April 14.


Las Cruces State of the City

Mayor Ken Miyagishima gave Las Cruces’ annual State of the City address Thursday afternoon, touching on the economy and other key issues.


Department of Health Releases New Child Obesity Report

Data Shows High Percentage of New Mexico’s Children are Overweight or Obese
(Santa Fe) – The New Mexico Department of Health (DOH) today released their 2011 report detailing New Mexico’s childhood obesity rates, “The Weight of Our Children: 2011 New Mexico Childhood Obesity Report.” The report shows that 15 percent of kindergarten students and more than 21 percent of third graders are obese; and that American Indian students in New Mexico suffer from obesity at a high rate than other ethnic groups.


02_17_12_Beans

Beans were the biggest crop in New Mexico until the dust bowl dried them up.


The Clock Strikes Noon on New Mexico's 30-day Legislative Session

The session has ended, here is a wrap up of what did and did not get done.


MEDIA AVAILABILITY - GOVERNOR`S OFFICE

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will hold a media availability at 2:00 p.m. today to discuss the outcome of this year’s regularly-scheduled legislative session at the Governor’s office lobby, 490 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe.


End-of-session crush hits Legislature

School reforms alive; other big bills uncertain
SANTA FE (KRQE) - A lot of unfinished business is left in the legislative session that wraps up when the clock strikes noon on Thursday.


02_16_12_Philmont Boy Scout Ranch

Oklahoma oil baron Waite Phillips endows the Boy Scouts of America with a gift of land that keeps on giving.


Reform for PRC Working Through Both Chambers in Dwindling Days

HJR 11 will give the legislature authority to set qualifications for PRC Commissioners. PRC Commistioner Therese Becenti-Aguliar gives NMNN her thoughts.


02_15_12_Saint Katherine's Indian School

This imposing adobe structure in Santa Fe was the first of many schools built to educate Native Americans.


State Budget Is Off To The Governor's Desk

Lawmakers sent the $6 billion budget to the Governors desk Tuesday.


Police find body in T or C ditch

TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES, N.M. (KRQE) - State police are investigating the discovery of a body in a ditch in T or C.


Santa Fe Catholic school may drug test students


SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - A private Catholic high school is Santa Fe is considering random drug testing for its students as a way to deter drug use.


Forest Service suing state, Otero County

LAS CRUCES, N.M. (AP) - The U.S. Forest Service has filed suit against the state and Otero County over management of certain forest lands.


Moms, 3rd Grader Stop Runaway School Bus


Witnesses: Driver Suffered Seizure On Way To Albuquerque School
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Two quick-thinking mothers and a third-grader stopped a school bus from crashing Monday morning.


Governor Susana Martinez to Speak at Alzheimer`s Day at the Roundhouse

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez has declared Tuesday, February 14, “Alzheimer’s Day at the Legislature” in order to raise awareness of the disease and advance efforts to fight it. The Governor will speak at Alzheimer’s Day at the Roundhouse today at 11am.


02_14_12_Keep the Home Fires Burning

In spite of tragedies like the Dawson mine explosion, New Mexico coal helped keep the home fires buring during World War I.


Child Murder Convictions Could Get Tougher

Senate Bill 59/a adds an additional aggravting circumstance to the state's capital sentencing statute. It now heads to the House.


Driver's License Repeal Bill Heads To the Senate: Majority Whip Has Little Faith It Will Get Votes

Senate Majority Whip Mary Jane Garcia says the bill will not make it out of the Senate. Garcia says Gov. Martinez is playing a game of politics.


I-40 crash claims animal rescuer, puppy

NMNN Note: Catherine Bugg was a former broadcaster at KQAY and KTUM in Tucumcari
TUCUMCARI, N.M. (KRQE) - An animal-rescue volunteer and the adopted puppy she was helping relay to its new owner died Saturday when freezing fog iced over Interstate 40 in Tucumcari.


Icy, snow packed roads in northern NM

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - Road conditions in northern New Mexico Monday are snow packed and icy.


Nationwide Mortgage Settlement Affects New Mexico


Attorney General: Homeowners Get $91.7M In Robo-Signing Fiasco Settlement
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- According to the attorney general`s office, thousands of New Mexico homeowners could soon get their payback from the banks at the center of a foreclosure scandal.


New emissions rules could lead to new plant

FARMINGTON — State legislators repealed one of New Mexico`s two carbon cap-and-trade laws Feb. 6, and Farmington electric utility officials are hoping the second one will be repealed in March.


Meth training boosts responder safety

Police, firefighter advance awareness and skills
ROSWELL, N.M. (KRQE) - Agents backed by firefighters busted a meth house Friday morning in Roswell, but it wasn`t real. It was part of a week long program to train law enforcement how to handle meth labs in a realistic setting.


Representative Garcia on House Joint Resolution 28

Representative Miguel Garcia talked about House Joint Resolution 28 during an interview on Friday at the State Legislatrue. 


02_13_12_Prather Standoff

A stubborn Otero County rancher fights eviction to make room for White Sands Missile Range, and takes on the U.S. Army.


Governor Martinez Receives Major Blocks in Dealing With Murder Cases



Democrats Table Parent Notification Bill For Teens Seeking Abortion

A bill that would have  required notification of parents of girls 17 and younger seeking an abortion died in committee.


New Mexico House Approves $5.6 Billion Budget

The House passed the states budget on a bipartisan move on Wednesday.


New Mexico: Senate Bill 26 Passes in the state Senate

Yesterday, the New Mexico Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 26, the NRA- and NMSSA-backed legislation sponsored by state Senator Bill Payne (R-ABQ), which would repeal Section 30-7-9 of the New Mexico Criminal Code. This state law limits the purchase of rifles and shotguns by New Mexico residents to their home state and contiguous states.


City worker suspected bank robber

Been with the city since 2000
ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - An Albuquerque city worker is in federal custody, accused of robbing a bank Monday afternoon.


New Mexico District judge accused of bribery to retire from the bench, effective Feb. 24


LAS CRUCES, N.M. — Judge Michael Murphy of Las Cruces announced Wednesday that he will retire from the bench, effective Feb. 24. The resignation was approved by the state Supreme Court as part of an agreement to end all disciplinary investigations of Murphy, who was also accused of making offensive and biased remarks to court employees.


New Flood Maps Show Current Risks in Rio Arriba County New Mexico

Rio Arriba County, New Mexico homeowners, business and residential renters, and business owners who do not have flood insurance are encouraged to buy coverage now to get the best possible premiums before new flood insurance rate maps go into effect.


Deputy academy candidates get to retake test

The Bernalillo County Sheriff`s Office will allow close to a dozen deputy candidates who failed a portion of the academy admittance test, to retake it. It will be the first time a candidate will be allowed to retake a portion of the test.


New Mexico Heroes Recall Daring Vietnam Rescue


ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- When two helicopter pilots in the Vietnam War heard that more than 100 fellow soldiers were surrounded, they risked their lives to save others.


House Passes Bill To Repeal Licenses for Foreign Nationals

House Bill 103 which would repeal Driver's Licenses for Foreign Nationals has passed the House by a vote of 45 to 25, now it moves on to the Senate. Border Network for Human Rights, Cristina Parker speaks on the issue with NMNN. 


Radio spots tell stories of forgotten New Mexicans

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (WTW) — Switch on the radio this centennial year and you`ll hear snippets of New Mexico history about everyone from Ham the astrochimp to a UFO-spotting Socorro sheriff.


Environmentalists sue over trapping in New Mexico

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - Environmentalists filed a lawsuit Tuesday against wildlife managers over their decision last summer to lift a trapping ban in southwestern New Mexico where the federal government is reintroducing Mexican gray wolves.


Activists and Lawmakers Work To FIght Against Bullying

House Memorial 27 passed Tuesday that will instruct schools to develop anti-bullying programs, but parents say that it is not enough to fight the growing problem. 


New Mexico Airlines pulls out of Lea County

CARLSBAD — New Mexico Airlines, an Essential Air Service carrier, says Hobbs residents needing to fly to Albuquerque will have to drive to Carlsbad to catch a flight to the northern city. The airline has officially pulled out of Lea County.


NM Supreme Court to hear redistricting dispute


SANTA FE, N.M.—A political dispute over legislative redistricting is going before New Mexico`s highest court. The state Supreme Court is to hear arguments from lawyers Tuesday afternoon in a challenge to new districts for the state House of Representatives.


Urlacher Reflects On NFL Career, Loss Of Mother


Chicago Bears Superstar Looks Toward Future

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- This year has been a roller coaster for NFL superstar Brian Urlacher.


House will have another opportunity to pass a bill to stop driver`s licenses for illegal immigrants

The state House will have another opportunity to pass a bill to stop driver`s licenses for illegal immigrants after the judiciary committee approved the measure.


Tax Cut For NM Vets?

NEW MEXICO (KRWG) - Veterans may see an easing of their state taxes if legislation makes it through to the governor. The Santa Fe New Mexican (http://bit.ly/ArQoDp ) reports bills under consideration in the House and Senate this session would give veterans a 25 percent tax exemption on their military pay beginning in 2013.


Rep. Dodge Sponsors Bill For Veteran Benefits



Senator Morales on $500,000 for Reading Initiative

Senator Howie Morales talked about Senate Bill 270 during an interview on Friday at the legislature. 


Governor Martinez: More Funding for Tribal Infrastructure

Governor Martinez announced that there will be more funding for tribal infrustructure, during her speech on Friday at the Legislature. 


The Countdown To The End: Final Two Week Report

With the two week mark lawmakers are feeling the pressure to get more accomplished in these dwindling days. S=Republican Sentator John Ryan gives NMNN his take.


Senator Ryan Fights For Tougher Regulaitons For Adoption Agencies Coming Into New Mexico

Sen. John Ryan's bill sets to set tougher regulations of out-of-state adoption facilitators in order to protect both adoptive and biologocal parents.


New Mexico Competing Against Foreign Chile


Officials: Imports Account For 82% Of U.S. Consumption Of Chile

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- International competition is threatening New Mexico`s chile, and officials said Wednesday chile from China might be in locals` next burrito.


NMSU`s Creative Media Institute part of New Mexico film industry documentary

LAS CRUCES - "MADE IN NEW MEXICO," an hour-long documentary that takes an inside-look at the state`s film and media industry, premiered this week in Santa Fe. On Wednesday when the film comes to Las Cruces, Creative Media Institute Director Phil Lewis hopes to fill the Rio Grande Theatre with students from New Mexico State University.


Suspect in New Mexico embezzlement case found dead near Lake Havasu City

BULLHEAD CITY — Mohave County Sheriff’s Deputies are investigating the apparent suicide of a Farmington, N.M., woman who had disappeared less than two weeks earlier after authorities began suspecting her of embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars from her employer.


Legislators debate how to spend budget surplus


The New Mexico Legislature and Gov. Susana Martinez are at odds over how to spend a projected $250 million surplus for fiscal year 2013.


Legislators seek input through advertising

It’s a long road from eastern New Mexico to Santa Fe, and it’s a tough process once a citizen gets to the New Mexico Legislature.


02_06_12_Frenchy Rochas

The master French carpenter who built the Loretto Chapel's Miraculous Staircase meets an untimely end in Dog Canyon.


02_07_12_Bursum Bill

Senator Holm O. Bursum tries to sneak a bill through Congress to steal Pueblo lands.  It backfires.


02_08_12_Trujillo vs Garley

It took a court case in 1957 to give Native Americans the right to vote in New Mexico.


02_09_12_Charles Speiss

The major author of New Mexico's State Constitution is largely unknown today.


02_10_12_Flying Lobos

The UNM Lobo football team makes aviation history.


Governor Martinez Launches New Media Campaign

Governor Susana Martinez announced a new media campain on Thursday, that will be aimed at stoping drug use among New Mexico youth. 


Breaking Bad Star Steven Micheal Quezada Talks About N.M. Film Incentive Programs



Cibola National Forest Selected as Early Adopter for Plan Revision on Mountain Districts Under New P

Alaska, California, Idaho, New Mexico and Puerto Rico National Forest Selected as First to Implement a New Planning Rule
WASHINGTON, January 30, 2012 -- The U.S. Forest Service today announced eight national forests that will be the first to revise their land management plans using a new National Forest System Planning Rule, after it is finalized in the months ahead. The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest in Idaho, the Chugach National Forest in Alaska, the Cibola National Forest in New Mexico, El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico and California’s Inyo, Sequoia and Sierra National Forests will begin revising their plans shortly after a final rule is selected.


New Mexico hiker finds lower jawbone where femur and other scattered remains of man found


SILVER CITY, N.M. — New Mexico authorities say scattered body parts have been found in the Gomez Peak area over the past few weeks after a hiker picked up what appeared to be a lower jawbone on Jan. 19.


Senator Griego Rallies Support for Repeal of Film Cap

Senator Phil Griego rallied for support of Senate Bill 168 during a press conference on Wednesday at the State Legislature. 


Representative Trujillo on HB 258

Representative Jim Trujillo outlined the details of House Bill 258 during an interview on Wednesday at the Legislature. 


House Democrats Push For Additional Funding For Drug Courts

New Meexico House Democrats strive to help struggling drug court by extracting from state liquor excise tax.


Twitty finds a home in New Mexico

Minnesota to New Mexico can be a long, strange trip, especially for a guy from New Jersey. Dom Twitty says that`s not the half of it. Twitty, a 6-foot-2, 274-pound defensive lineman from Rancocas Valley, is thrilled that he will be signing a letter of intent Wednesday to play football for the University of New Mexico.


Sandia Labs` bullet doesn`t miss

Scientists patent self-guided bullet
ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Engineers at Sandia National Laboratories have invented a bullet that guides itself to the target.


Bill to limit double dipping dies

SANTA FE - A move to prevent public employees from collecting their salary and a legislative stipend at the same time failed Tuesday, stopped in its tracks by a group of Democrats. The proposal, by Rep. James Smith, R-Sandia Park, was aimed at teachers, school administrators and others on the public payroll who also serve in the Legislature. Some of them collect their public paychecks as well as $153 in daily expense money while serving in the Legislature.


UNM Students Advocate For Student Issues At The Roundhouse

UNM Day at the State Legislature highlighted issues concerning college students around the state.


Mojave, New Mexico spaceports find complementary roles

TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES, N.M. -- If you ever visit this quirky little village named for a 1950s-era TV game show, you may think you`ve arrived in the middle of nowhere. But you`re nowhere close. Drive just another hour into the desert and watch as a stingray-shaped structure with an earth-colored roof slowly rises up from the desert floor like something out of a Star Wars movie.


Colorado Woman Accused Of Smuggling Pot Into New Mexico

COLUMBUS, N.M. (AP) — U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers in New Mexico say they’ve made an unusual seizure —bundles of marijuana stashed inside wood-framed and mirrored quinceanera plaques.


Downturn recasts National Hispanic Cultural Center

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — It`s the place where Linda Ronstadt sang "Desperado" to Sen. John Kerry during the 2004 presidential campaign. Actor Cheech Marin brought his traveling Chicano art show to the National Hispanic Cultural Center of New Mexico, and noted novelist Rudolfo Anaya has given workshops to aspiring writers.


NM`s new water boss talks about the challenges of drought and balancing competing interests


ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The past month has been a whirlwind for New Mexico`s new water czar. There have been meetings with lawmakers, mayors and federal officials and briefings with staff around the state.


Lawmakers Work To Help New Mexicans Avoid Foreclosure

Senator Gerald Ortiz y Pino says he along with two other senators are dropping bills to try to help homeowners.


02_01_12_George Jordan

Buffalo Soldier George Jordan receives the Congressional Medal of Honor for bravery in service during the Apache uprising in the 1880's.  


Rep. David Chavez Drops Bill To Define Marriage

Republican Representative David Chavez is carrying a bill to define marriage in the state of New Mexico, if passed the issue will be brought to voters in this years election.


Rep. Eleanor Chavez on Internet Sales Tax Bill

Representative Eleanor Chavez detailed her proposed bill during an interview on Friday at the State Legislatrue, that will allow the state to collet taxes on internet sales. 


Rep. Miguel Garcia on Democratic Drivers License Bill

Representative Miguel Garcia talked about the democratic amendments made to Governor Martinez's drivers licence bill, during an interview on Friday.  


Republicans and Democrats Working For Harsher Penailties For Child Abusers In New Mexico

Lawmakers are working acorss party lines to help the children of New Mexico.


New formula needs funding

The state is looking to switch the formula for how much money UNM gets from the state from enrollment-based to performance-based; the question is how.


New Mexico Lobos quarterback pepper sprays girlfriend

Ryan Trujillo had a girlfriend. Now it`s possible that he is single. Trujillo, a freshman walk-on for the New Mexico Lobos, was arrested last week. According to the police report, he was charged with battery on a household member, also known in the incident as his girlfriend.


Representative Gentry Proposes Anti-Corruption Bills

Representative Nate Gentry outlined the details of his proposed anti-corruption bills during an interview on Wednsday, in the wake of Govenor Martine'z call to action. 


House Dems Introduce Driver's License Compromise Bill

Rep. Bill O'Neill introduced a compromise bill  to the Gov. Martinez's  never ending battle to repal driver's licences for foreign nationals.


Senators Rally for Primary Healthcare Funds

Majority Whip Mary Jane Garcia and Senator Sue Wilson Beffort spoke during a press confrernce on Wednesday at the Capitol to rally for more funds for primary health facilities. 


Slideshow: New Mexico’s biggest motion picture wins, bombs

Film has become big business in the Land of Enchantment. Since 2002, when New Mexico began offering competitive incentive packages for movie studios, 162 film and television productions have landed in the state. Here at the Business Weekly, we wondered which films shot in New Mexico have made the most cash at the box office, and conversely, which have bombed.


Jackson twins to New Mexico

Rashad and Vershad Jackson (Missouri City, Texas/Thurgood Marshall) have both committed to New Mexico, multiple sources report. Vershad is a two-star cornerback while his brother Rashad is a higher rated two-star running back.


Colorado wisecrack angers New Mexicans

Santa Fe, New Mexico - Colorado`s tourism chief is rapidly backpedaling from a wisecrack he made about New Mexico. He thought it was funny, but it`s not getting a lot of laughs around New Mexico.


New Mexico's Museums Among The Nations Best



02_03_12_Blackdom



01_30_12_Mesilla Plaza Riot

A scuffle between Democrats and Republicans turns deadly on Mesilla Plaza.


01_31_12_San Marcial Flood



02_02_12_George McJunkin



Bingman Comments on Iran

Bingaman anticipates upcoming briefing from the administration on the Iranian issue. (:58)


Bingman Clarifies His Position on the Defense Authorization Act

Bingaman comments on a provision in the defense authorization bill that deals with the detention of U.S. citizens and terror suspects on U.S. soil. (1:44)


Bingman Comments on Energy Bills during his last session of Congress

Bingaman says he hopes to get some energy bills passed before the end of the Congress. (:45)


Bingaman Comments on the Anti-Conterfeiting Trade Agreement

Bingaman comments on the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement and the lack of Congressional hearings. (1:53)


Bingman Comments on Internet Legislation

Bingaman comments on the Protect IP Act that is being talked about in the Senate. (1:18)


Bingaman Comments of Keystone Pipeline

Bingaman comments on the Obama Administrations decision regarding the Keystone XL pipeline. (2:11)


Bingaman Talks About Getting Things Done in this Session of Congress

Bingaman talks about tomorrow`s State of the Union Address and about some of the issues on the agenda for the second session of the 112th Congress. (1:24)


ingaman Talks About Senate Agenda for the Second Session of the 112th Congress

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today talked about some of the issues on the agenda for the second session of the 112th Congress. (1:48)


New Mexico College Grads Could See Spike in Employment With Proposal of New Bill

Lawmakers are attempting to keep the states best and brightest from leaving after graduation. Senator Tim Keller is sponsering a bill (SB 16) that will allow for a $5,000 tax credit for businesses that hire New Mexico graduates.


NM House Republicans Media Avail

What: Discuss House Joint Resolution to require public officials who receive public money to take an unpaid leave of absence or annual leave while serving in the state legislature.


Gov. Martinez Seeks To End Corruption in State Politics

Governor Martinez is supporting a bill that would allow a two year cooling off period for lawmakers after leaving their posts and entering the private sector.


Commissioner Lujan Grisham In Support Of Senior Citizens

Commissioner Michelle Lujan Grisham spoke during a press confernce on Friday at the Capitol during Senior Day at the Legislature, to advocate for more funding for senior services. 


MEDIA ADVISORY

A news conference to announce the "Helping Incentivize Real Employment (HIRE) Plan" will be held on Monday, January 23 at 10am in room 326 of the State Capitol building. Majority Floor Leader Michael Sanchez, Majority Whip Mary Jane Garcia, along with Senators Tim Keller, John Sapien, Carlos Cisneros, Steve Fischmann, Tim Eichenberg and Phil Griego will be in attendance.


GOVERNOR MEDIA AVAILABILITY CANCELLED

SANTA FE - Due to a sudden change in the travel schedules of Mexican governors, today`s media availability at Buffalo Thunder has been cancelled. A statement from the Governor`s office will follow shortly.


APD Arrests Two Teens

The Artesia Police Department reported a couple of arrests yesterday. After ten in the morning, a 14-year-old D’Shawne Guajardo was arrested at Park Jr. High. He was charged with possession of grass.  Then after noon yesterday a Jeremy Lehman was arrested at K-Mart and was charged with shoplifting and possession of drug paraphernalia.


Wind And Fire Weather Expected Today

Get ready for a Friday of wind and high fire danger. The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning for the Guadalupe Mountains until eight this evening. Wind gusts up to 60 mph are possible. Also, a Red Flag Warning has been posted for the entire region. It will start at eleven this morning and will last until five this afternoon. The weather bureau is forecasting winds to be out of the west to southwest at 20-30 mph, with a few gusts over 35 mph. Humidity levels will be low as well. Officials say any fires that develop will spread rapidly and outdoor burning isn’t recommended.


Senate Has Different Idea of Education Reform

Majority Whip Mary Jane Garcia proposes a diffent approch from Governor Martinez to education reform during an interview on Wednsday. 


Las Colonias Day at the Capitol

Las Colonias Day was celebrated at the State Legislature on Wednsday as guest speakers gathered for a press conference calling for more funding for infrastructure in colonia communities throughout New Mexico. 


House Majority Leader Rebuttal to Governors State of the State

House Majority Leader Ken Martinez says that Gov. Martinez's claim to the states financial success is not just the work of her office and Republican leaders,but rather Democrats.  


House Majority Leader Reacts To Lujan's Battle with Cancer



Eddy County Woman Missing

Jimi Ginzling of Christmas For Our Troops says his wife Theresa has been missing since yesterday morning.  Earlier this week he spent some time in Albuquerque at some VA appointments and he spoke with her on Monday and again yesterday morning at seven. He says he gave her another call yesterday morning around nine, however her boss said she didn’t show up for work. He says repeated calls to her have gone unanswered. He says the Eddy County Sheriff’s Office has been notified and a Bolo has been issued for her. He says his wife is five-six in height with glasses and brown hair with a touch of gray. Her car, a 1998 Nissan Altima, is also missing. It’s gold in color and has Disabled Vet Plates. If you have any information, you’re asked to call the Eddy County Sheriff’s Office or Ginzling at 513-2842, that number again is 513-2842. 


Joining the fight: Locals take action against alleged drunken driver

FARMINGTON — Even the locals are joining the fight against drinking and driving. No charges will be filed against one man who hogtied a suspected drunken driver Sunday night, after several people witnessed the driver barely avoid several head-on collisions.


Melrose Air Force Range set to expand

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - Melrose Air Force Range is going to expand.


One last chance to claim remains

BERNALILLO COUNTY, N.M. (KRQE) - The remains of some of Bernalillo County’s more mysterious people are piling up.


Autistic Teen Rescued At White Sands Monument


Authorities: Blackhawk Spotted Teen Walking In Dunes

ALAMOGORDO, N.M. -- An autistic teenager who wandered away from his family during an outing at White Sands National Monument and spent the night among the sand dunes has been found.


More NM kids falling into poverty

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - More New Mexico children have fallen into poverty as a result of the recession. That`s according to the newest report from New Mexico Voices for Children.


Legislative session could have $5M price tag

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - The Legislature`s 30-day session could cost New Mexicans about $5 million.


Lawmakers may appeal voting district map

LAS CRUCES - The redistricting map selected by the courts for the New Mexico House of Representatives has raised the ire of some politicians who are signaling that an appeal to the Supreme Court is possible.


Artesia School Board Approves Calendar

The Artesia School Board has given the okay to the 2012-2013 School Calendar. Monday night Asst. Supt. Dr. Crit Caton presented two proposals to the board. The first would’ve had Spring Break take place during the week of April 1, 2013. The second calendar would’ve had Spring Break fall in March of next year. Dr. Caton says the calendar dates were developed with Standards Based Assessment testing. The board decided to approve Option One.


C-bad School Boss Has Thoughts On State Grades

It’s been more than a week since the State of New Mexico released grades for various schools across the state. Officials in the Carlsbad School District have been looking at the results and Supt. Gary Perkowski says their not happy with the results. He adds that under the old Adequate Yearly Progress or No Child Left Behind, the system was designed to fail. He also says that school districts have forgotten about high achieving students over the years.


More Names Added To Artesia Ballot

Two more names have been added to the Artesia Municipal Election ballot. The elections are set for early March and yesterday was the day for write in candidates to declare their intentions.  Don Rindahl has added his name to the Municipal Judge’s race. He’ll be facing former City Councilor Luis Flores and longtime Artesia Police Commander Richard Martinez. In the District One City Council race, incumbent Manuel Barragan is facing a write in challenge from Manuel Madrid Jr. His late father was a former councilor and Artesia Mayor. Nothing has changed in the other council races as District Two incumbent Nora Sanchez is facing a challenge from Jose Luis Gabaldon. In District Three, JB Smith is facing Jeff Youtsey and in District Four, William Rogers is facing Beverly Sweatt. 


Opening Day of The Fiftieth State Legislature

Tuesday began the fiftieth State legislative session that introduced an unexpected announcement by Speaker of the House Ben Lujan, and opening words of Governor Martinez's State of the State address were interupted by occupy protestors.


Lawmaker proposes immigration reform

Said state should do job that feds aren`t doing
SANTA FE (KRQE) - New Mexico may join the ranks of states trying to tackle immigration reform. One state lawmaker wants to give illegal immigrants permission to work legally in the country if they don`t have a criminal background.


Joule Socks Away $70M For New Mexico Green Fuel Facility

Joule Unlimited, a biofuels startup located in Bedford, MA, announced today that it has pocketed $70 million in financing to put toward a facility underway in Hobbs, NM, that will demonstrate Joule’s process for converting sunlight and carbon dioxide into fuels such as diesel and ethanol.


NM Legislature: Immigration

LAS CRUCES (KRWG) - Immigration is expected to be one of the issues discussed during New Mexico`s 30-day legislative session that begins today (Tuesday). Senator Steve Fischmann says he is inclined to support Governor Susanna Martinez`s second shot at eliminating driver`s licenses for undocumented immigrants.


Protesters march to Santa Fe


(un)Occupy Albuquerque protesters set out on foot for Santa Fe early Saturday morning and arrived at the state Capitol yesterday evening, just in time for the first day of the legislative session.


NM Legislature: Taking On "Citizens United"

LAS CRUCES (KRWG) - New Mexico`s 30-day legislative session begins today (Tuesday). Senator Steve Fischmann says the US Supreme Court decision known as "Citizens United" that allows unlimited corporate political contributions should not stand.


Researchers: Earth`s crust in NM is stretching


ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.—The Earth`s crust in New Mexico is stretching at a rate of an inch of east-west growth every 40 years, researchers said in a new study. The Albuquerque Journal reports ( http://bit.ly/yVFpYl) that scientists have long suspected it was happening because of the way the Rio Grande Rift splits the state down the middle. The rift, a tear in the Earth`s crust, defines the state`s central mountain chain and the valley the Rio Grande River now follows.


A&E Preps New Scripted Drama For NM

PASADENA: A&E Network is to begin production on the new hour-long original drama Longmire in March, while two additional scripted series have been added to the development slate. Shooting on the crime thriller Longmire will take place in Santa Fe, New Mexico, with ten episodes slated to launch this summer.


Legislative efforts are under way to overhaul state`s scandal-plagued PRC

Two years from now, will the state Public Regulation Commission look the same?


MEDIA ADVISORY: GOVERNOR TO SPEAK AT NAIOP LUNCHEON TODAY

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will address a monthly luncheon of NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association. Governor Martinez will discuss the agenda for the upcoming legislative session and several proposals to make New Mexico more competitive with other states in the region in order to foster economic growth and job creation. The Governor is scheduled to speak at 12:15 p.m. at the Marriott Uptown, 2101 Louisiana Blvd. NE in Albuquerque.


01_25_12_HAM

A humble chimpanzee from Camaroon, Africa becomes an astronaut and a national hero.


01_23_12_The Albert Fountain Mystery

Perhaps New Mexico's greatest unsolved murder.  What happened to Mesilla lawyer Albert Fountain and his son Henry on their fateful journey home from Lincoln?


01_24_12_The Bridal Chamber Mine

A blacksmith from Hillboro discovers the purest and richest silver deposit ever found on the planet.


01_26_12_Smokey Bear

An orphaned bear cub rescued from a Capitan forest fire becomes a national icon. 


01_27_12_Socorro UFO

Socorro County Sheriff Lonnie Zamora finds himself in the Twilight Zone


MRSA Case Confirmed At Belen High School


Officials Urge Students, Parents To Take Precautions
BELEN, N.M. -- A Valencia County high school is dealing with the spread of potentially dangerous bacteria.


UPDATE: Police arrest New Mexico man in Concord for violating PFA

CONCORD – State police arrested a New Mexico man Wednesday night after he allegedly followed a woman to Pennsylvania in violation of a protection from abuse order.


PRC study calls for ethics, hiring reform

Proposal also suggests shifting some duties to other agencies 
Members of the scandal-plagued state Public Regulation Commission on Wednesday reviewed a management study that Chief of Staff Johnny Montoya characterized as a "proactive attempt" to reform the agency.


Some earthquakes expected along Rio Grande Rift in Colorado and New Mexico, new study says

(PhysOrg.com) -- The Rio Grande Rift, a thinning and stretching of Earth’s surface that extends from Colorado’s central Rocky Mountains to Mexico, is not dead but geologically alive and active, according to a new study involving scientists from the University of Colorado Boulder’s Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences.


Mexico Updates Death Toll in Drug War to 47,515, but Critics Dispute the Data

MEXICO CITY — The Mexican government updated its drug war death toll on Wednesday, reporting that 47,515 people had been killed in drug-related violence since President Felipe Calderón began a military assault on criminal cartels in late 2006.


New Mexico Tourism Dept. picks new ad agency


SANTA FE, N.M. -- The New Mexico Tourism Department has picked a Texas firm to develop a new advertising campaign promoting the state.


Major Drug Ring Busted In Ruidoso

RUIDOSO (KRWG) - Authorities say they have busted a major drug and arms trafficking ring around Ruidoso Downs.


NM: Groundwater projects selected for Grant County

SANTA CLARA, N.M.—New Mexico environment officials say six groundwater restoration projects are being given the green light in Grant County.


New Mexico Philharmonic meshes classical music, electronics

The New Mexico Philharmonic will launch its series of PULSE concerts in February. They are aimed at drawing a younger audience, and meshing classical music with modern electronic sounds.


New Mexico Higher Education Department asks for more time to complete 2010 audit report


ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The New Mexico Higher Education Department is asking for more time to complete a 2010 audit report that`s already more than a year late.


New Mexico`s highest paid health care workers are in Ruidoso, Los Alamos

Fourteen U.S. markets are home to more than 10,000 private-sector companies in the related fields of health care and social assistance. Health care has emerged as one of the fastest-growing components of the nation`s economy.


Meteorite stolen from UNM museum

UNM museum searches for it`s shooting star
ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - A very expensive meteorite was stolen before the University of New Mexico`s Winter break and the international hunt to find it, worked.


Alumnus Robert Frank to succeed Schmidly


The UNM Board of Regents unanimously selected Robert G. Frank on Jan. 4 to replace David Schmidly as the next president of UNM, but the decision elicited mixed responses from the UNM community.


Action coalitions embrace future of nursing

New Mexico leaders unveil groups` plans for 2012 and beyond
Before the Institute of Medicine released its eight recommendations on the future of nursing, New Mexico RNs already were focused on bringing nurses together for action, collaboration and communication.


Changes Proposed to NM Legislative Lottery Scholarship Program

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - Scholarships from the New Mexico Lottery could be getting harder to win.


Hobbs university administrator is new NMSU-C president

CARLSBAD — New Mexico State University President Barbara Couture has announced that John Gratton has been selected to be the next president of New Mexico State University-Carlsbad.


UNM unveils website that documents New Mexico`s 100 years of statehood

The University of New Mexico is celebrating New Mexico’s 100 years of statehood by unveiling an online collection of photos from museums across the state.


01_16_12_Elfego Baca

Socorro County Sheriff Elfego Baca and the shootout in San Francisco Plaza


01_17_12_Camel Corps

A U.S. Army cavalry troop astride camels in the Southwest desert? Well it seemed worth a try a the time.


01_18_12_The Telegraph comes to Santa Fe

The telegraph comes to Santa Fe in 1868 and changes everything.


01_19_12_Lea County Courthouse

Lovington and Hobbs vie for the honor of becoming the county seat.


01_20_12_Folsom Flood

Sally Rooke, heroine of the 1909 Folsom Flood


2011 Was Busy Year for Firefighters in New Mexico

New Mexico may have more snow on the ground as it starts the new year, but much of the state remains in drought and fire officials are preparing for what could be another rough year.


Dollar General to open 625 new stores in 40 states, including New Mexico

Dollar General Corp. (NYSE: DG), based in Goodlettsville, Tenn., has announced plans to open 625 new stores and create more than 6,000 new jobs in 2012. The new stores will open in the 38-states where the retailer operates, which includes New Mexico.


Cerletti was New Mexico`s first Tourism Secretary

Former New Mexico Tourism Secretary Mike Cerletti has died. Cerletti, 72, died on Tuesday evening, said the New Mexico Tourism Department. He had been battling brain cancer since 2010.


NMSU Carlsbad names New Mexico Junior College VP as new president

CARLSBAD, N.M. — New Mexico State University President Barbara Couture has announced that a New Mexico Junior College administrator has been selected to be the new president of New Mexico State University Carlsbad.


Infectious Diseases in New Mexico 2010 Annual Report

The New Mexico Department of Health continually monitors and investigates a wide variety of notifiable conditions in the state. The list of notifiable conditions is codified in the New Mexico Administrative Code which defines confirmed or suspected conditions or events that must be reported to the Department of Health. Notifiable infectious diseases make up the majority of these reports. Both human and animal notifiable infectious diseases, as well as less discrete events, such as “acute illnesses of any type involving large numbers of persons in the same geographic area”, are included on the list.


City of Albuquerque Celebrates New Mexico Statehood

The City of Albuquerque is celebrating New Mexico`s statehood and everyone is invited! ABQ RIDE will hold a 100th Birthday Ceremony for New Mexico at the Alvarado Transportation Center, built on the site of the historic Alvarado Hotel.


New Mexico Scientist Was Building Bombs at Home Before Death, Sheriff Says


ESTANCIA, N.M. – A New Mexico sheriff said a retired Sandia Labs scientist was apparently building bombs at his home before he died.


New interchange designs revealed for I-25/U.S. 550

The New Mexico Department of Transportation gave KOB Eyewitness News 4 a first look at the design plan of a new I-25/U.S. 550 interchange.


Starbucks to raise prices in NM

NEW YORK (AP) - Starbucks is raising some prices regionally as it faces tough competition and rising ingredient costs.


As Legislative session approaches, controversy looms

The New Mexico state legislature will convene for its 30 day session on January 17 - and for a change lawmakers don`t have their hatchets sharpened up for another round of budget cutting.


Judge Sets New Mexico Map

A New Mexico state judge approved a Congressional redistricting plan on Thursday that makes no significant shifts in the lines or competitiveness of the state’s three districts.


Small-town New Mexico ranked for length of commute

Which small town`s in New Mexico are a commuter`s dream? Silver City (population: 10,277) in southwest New Mexico enjoys the smoothest traffic flow of any community in the state with a population between 10,000 and 50,000, according to a new On Numbers study.


NM scientists develop drought-tolerant alfalfa

With much of the Southwest struggling with drought, many ranchers and dairy farmers are having difficulty finding enough hay for their livestock and making tough choices: pay up to twice as much as last year and ship it in from hundreds of miles away or do without and sell off some of their herd.


Crew of USS New Mexico extends birthday wishes to New Mexico as part of centennial celebration


ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The crew of the USS New Mexico has a special message for the state. All 127 crew members of the Virginia-class submarine are extending their birthday wishes via an online video in recognition of New Mexico`s 100 years of statehood.


Virgin Galactic is advertising jobs, moving staffers to southern New Mexico for Spaceport


LAS CRUCES, N.M. — Virgin Galactic is beginning to ramp up activity in southern New Mexico in a sign of preparation for future space flights from Spaceport America north of Las Cruces.


New Tool for New Mexico Workers in the New Year

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - New Mexicans having good information on job opportunities can be the difference between making it and not making it in this economy.


New study: Border fences blocking black bear migration between Arizona, Mexico

There is a new political animal in America’s age-old immigration debate: the black bear. A recently published study (pdf) to be disseminated to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security reports that barriers built to keep out illegal immigrants are blocking black bears in Arizona from their relatives in Mexico.


Conservationists in NM tie annual bird count to need for public lands protection


SANTA FE, N.M. — There`s one week left in the National Audubon Society`s annual bird count. The count wraps up Jan. 5, and members of Audubon New Mexico contend this year`s survey is happening as Congress considers measures that would affect the protection of public lands.


New Mexico avoids first round of Sears, Kmart closings

Sears Holding Corp. (NASDAQ:SHLD) has released the locations of 79 Sears and Kmart stores which will be closed, according to The Wall Street Journal.


Xcel Energy rates set to rise Sunday in eastern New Mexico


SANTA FE, N.M. — State regulators signed off on a rate increase for Xcel Energy averaging 4.7 percent. That means about 100,000 customers in eastern New Mexico will see higher electric rates beginning Sunday.


New Mexico`s current animal welfare laws are a crime

The Animal Legal Defense Fund, a national animal advocacy organization, recently ranked New Mexico`s animal protection laws at 45th out of the 50 states and the District of Columbia.


1/10/12 Governor Armijo's Retreat



NM banks to work with renters, cut out the middle man

Beginning January 1, 2012, a new law will allow banks to work with renters whose landlords are not paying the mortgage in New Mexico.


NM won`t have floats in Rose Parade

Not a priority under new administration
SANTA FE (KRQE) - As hundreds of volunteers prune and primp roses, leading up to one of the most popular parades around, New Mexico will be sitting on the sidelines.


New Mexico`s commuter rail to begin three-month test of `quiet car` on certain trains


ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — New Mexico`s commuter rail service will begin testing a "quiet car" next week in which passengers will speak in subdued voices and refrain from cell phone use.


Johnson the Libertarian could snag some of state`s electoral votes

Former governor expected to announce third-party bid Wednesday
With former New Mexico Gov. Gary Johnson expected to announce Wednesday his bid for the Libertarian Party nomination for president, some wonder whether that could make Johnson a real contender for New Mexico`s five electoral votes.


New Mexico Prepares To Celebrate Centennial


Tourism Officials Invite Families To Explore, Get Acquainted With State`s History
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- New Mexico`s rich history is taking center stage next year as the state celebrates its 100th birthday.


New Mexico`s retail sector employment performs better than most states

Things may be looking up for the retail sector, but it`s still a long way from a full recovery.


New Mexico Could Be Promising For Pro Sports

In honor of today`s launch of the NBA season, I wanted to write something about the business of basketball and what better topic than Arturo Galletti`s analysis of which cities might be promising homes for some of the Association`s money looking squads.


New Mexico Legislator Wants To Tax Online Purchases


Taxing Online Purchases Would Help State`s Botton Line
ALBUQUERQUE -- Millions of people looking to score a deal on Christmas gifts can find a good one online. Tax-free shopping lures people away from the lines at the mall, but now that tax break could be going away for New Mexico shoppers.


1/13/12 Fort Stanton

Established shortly after New Mexico became a U.S. Tereritory, Fort Stanton has had a colorful history.


1/12/12 Taos Rebellion Suppressed

American troops come to Taos to avenge Governor Bent's murder and brutally put down the rebellion.


1/11/12 Murder of Governor Bent in Taos

Mexican loyalists rebel against the Americans and murder newly appointed Governor Charles Bent.


1/09/12 General Kearny 1846 Entrance into New Mexico

General Kearny leads the Army of the West to Santa Fe and claims New Mexico for the United States of America.


01/06/12 Taft Signs New Mexico Statehood Bill

After 64 years as a territory of the United States, New Mexico finally achieves statehood in 1912.  


Missing student found snowbound in Arizona; family rescued from snowdrift in New Mexico


PHOENIX — Lauren Weinberg was seen leaving her mother’s home in Phoenix on Dec. 11 and later said her car became stuck in the snow a day later in east-central Arizona. The SUV carrying the Higgins family was buried in a snowdrift early this week in rural New Mexico.


SENM Could See White Christmas

Dreams of a White Christmas may be coming true either late tonight or tomorrow. Weather Service offices all around us have either issued Winter Storm Watches or Warnings for a good chunk of the region. Parts of Chaves County are under a Storm Watch starting this evening and lasting until tomorrow evening. The same can be said for Eddy County, including the Guadalupe Mountains. Parts of Lincoln County and Southwestern Chaves County are under a Winter Storm Warning until 11 tomorrow night. Heavy snow and blowing snow is forecast for those places, a foot of snow could fall in spots above 75-hundred feet. A Winter Storm Warning has also been posted for the Cloudcroft and Timberon area starting late this afternoon and lasting into late Friday. One to three inches of snow is possible in Artesia, Carlsbad and Roswell. Finally, a High Wind Warning has been posted for the Guadalupe Mountains starting at five this afternoon and lasting until late tomorrow morning.


Michigan Woman Killed In Cbad Area Crash

The New Mexico State Police say that a Michigan woman died yesterday afternoon as a result of a rollover crash on US-62/180 near Carlsbad. The deceased woman has been identified as Ann Tieder of Hancock, Michigan. The driver has been identified as Richard Tieder and he survived the crash, according to officials. An investigation shows that the couple was traveling in a 2004 GMC Utility Vehicle in the westbound lanes. The driver was attempting to change lanes and lost control. The vehicle then traveled onto the south shoulder where he turned to the right overcorrecting. This caused the vehicle to go into a broadside skid as it entered the median. The vehicle rolled nearly 200 feet before coming to rest on the passenger side. Mr. Tieder was treated for minor injuries at Carlsbad Medical Center. His wife was also transported, she later passed away from her injuries. Both were wearing seatbelts and no alcohol was involved. Driver inattention has been listed as the contributing factor in the crash.


Pro-Second Amendment Measure Pre-Filed in New Mexico Legislature

State Representative Bill Rehm (R-ABQ) has pre-filed House Bill 32, legislation that would repeal Section 30-7-9 of the New Mexico Criminal Code, for the upcoming 2012 thirty-day legislative session.


Abengoa idles ethanol plants in Kansas, New Mexico

n New Mexico, Abengoa says it will be temporarily shutting down its ethanol plant in Portales, as well as its plant in Colwhich, Kansas.


New Mexico 91, Montana St. 46

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Tony Snell hit his first five 3-pointers, three in the opening 2:07 of the game, sparking New Mexico to a 91-46 victory over Montana State on Tuesday.


New Mexico woman gives birth in truck during snowstorm

SANTA FE, N.M. — Russell LeFevre learned how to birth a baby in nursing school using clamps, blankets, a suction bulb that clears a baby`s mouth of mucus and other medical supplies.


Former New Mexico Gov. Gary Johnson to drop GOP bid for Libertarian Party run

EXETER, N.H. — Former New Mexico Gov. Gary Johnson, who has drawn little attention with his bid for the Republican nomination for president, is dropping his GOP campaign to run for the Libertarian Party nomination.


SENM Could See White Christmas

It looks like the Pecos Valley could have a white Christmas. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the region. First, the weather service in Albuquerque says a Winter Storm Watch has been issued for a good chunk of the state, including Chaves County. That will start late tonight and last through Friday afternoon. The National Weather Service in Midland has issued the same storm watch for Eddy and Northern Lea Counties starting tomorrow afternoon and lasting through Friday afternoon. Four to six inches of snow is possible. Finally, the National Weather Service in El Paso has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the Cloudcroft area during the same time frame. They say snowfall up to eight inches is possible above 7-thousand feet.


Heather Wilson Speaks In Roswell

Former Albuquerque area Congresswoman Heather Wilson was in the Pecos Valley yesterday. She has spent a lot of time here this year as she gets ready for her race for the US Senate. She spoke to the Roswell Kiwanis Club during their weekly meeting. She made her announcement to run for Senate back in March after Democrat incumbent Jeff Bingaman announced in February he was stepping down at the end of next year. Wilson has some opposition in the June GOP Primary, including current Lt. Gov. John Sanchez.


New VA Clinic Could Come To Artesia

The Artesia Special Hospital District Board Of Directors’ has taken a step that could see a new VA Clinic in Artesia. During their December meeting last night, board members heard from Lee Burchfield from Modular Management Group. They’re based out of Fort Worth and he says they’ve been doing their homework for a good chunk of this month. According to documents supplied by Burchfield, the VA is looking for more than 57-hundred square feet of rentable space. The lease will be a full service one with a term of up to 20 years.


Suspected Colorado Sex Offender Arrested In NM

SANTA TERESA, NEW MEXICO (KRWG) - SANTA TERESA, N.M. (KRWG) A suspected child-sex offender has been apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol agents in New Mexico.


EC Crimestoppers Looking For Info On Case

The Carlsbad Police Department in cooperation with Crimestoppers of Eddy County, is requesting your assistance in solving an Auto Burglary-Injuring or Tampering With A Motor Vehicle case that occurred between the late night hours of December 7 and the morning hours of December 8. Officials say an unknown suspect or suspects entered the lot located at Carlsbad Chevrolet on South Canal. They broke into five vehicles by breaking out windows and rummaging through the vehicles, removing speakers and a radio. The total loss is estimated at approximately $1,000.00.


Cbad Man Killed In Traffic Crash

A single-vehicle accident took the life of a Carlsbad man yesterday morning. Officials say Robert Smith Jr. was traveling westbound on State Road 128 when he approached a left-hand curve near the intersection with State Road 18. He was driving a 2002 GMC utility vehicle. Investigators say he failed to negotiate the curve and traveled into the opposite lane. He steered to the right, but overcorrected, causing the vehicle to go into a broadside skid. The vehicle then skidded off the roadway, and rolled nearly two times. Officials add Smith was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected from the vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Police say driver inattention, alcohol and lack of seatbelt use contributed to the crash.


APD Officers Recognized For DWI Work

Recently the Eddy County DWI Program handed out their recognition awards for 2011. Artesia Police Spokesman Sgt. Lindell Smith says some Artesia Officers picked up some hardware, including Sgt. Pete Quinones for Exceptional DWI Enforcement Officer. Patrol Officer Chantel Longway picked up an award for Outstanding DWI Enforcement and Patrol Officer Terry Colwell picked up the Excellence In DWI Enforcement Award for 2011. He had the highest number of arrests in Eddy County at 32.


NMDOT ROADS UPDATE

As of 10:30 a.m. I-25 from Santa Fe to the Colorado state line has been re-opened.


NMDPS ROAD UPDATE:

I-40 EB FROM MORIARTY TO SANTA ROSA HAS BEEN RE-OPENED.


NMDOT and NMSP remind motorists to obey road closures

NMDOT and NMSP remind motorists to obey road closures The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) in partnership with the New Mexico State Police has closed several roads in the state due to blowing snow resulting in near zero visibility. Motorists should obey road closures, even when a law enforcement officer is not present.


ROAD CLOSURE UPDATE:

I-25 NORTHBOUND AT MILEPOST 290 IN SANTA FE WILL BE CLOSED AT 4:30 P.M.


NM Roads Update

Interstate 25 close from Las Vegas to WAGON Mound, due to very low visibility.


US Homeland Security beefing up presence in NM

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — In May, around dozen undercover federal agents were dispatched to Roswell, N.M., a city of 48,000 known for its annual UFO festival. For months, agents followed "small time drug dealers" and gang members, many of whom had been terrorizing this quiet section of rural southeast New Mexico for years while overwhelmed local law enforcement agencies cried out for help.


Anti-bullying coalition forms in New Mexico

Standing outside the Albuquerque Public Schools headquarters on Sunday a new anti-bullying coalition said it wants change.


Reusable Rockets to take Giant Leap From Spaceport America

Billed as the nation’s first dedicated commercial spaceport, New Mexico`s Spaceport America is becoming a desirable location to experiment with new types of reusable booster systems.


New equipment at NMSU gives students tools to measure health

Textbooks and lectures aren`t the only tools that make student learning possible. This is the philosophy behind the recent acquisition of several pieces of equipment for New Mexico State University`s Human Performance Laboratory.


NM Man Makes Nation`s 15 Most-Wanted List

The U.S. Marshals Service has added a New Mexico man convicted of killing a 10-year-old boy to its list of the nation`s 15 most wanted fugitives.


New Mexico man killed, brother injured in South Plains crash

A Hobbs, N.M., man died early Sunday and his brother was injured after a one-vehicle crash late Saturday in Cochran County.


The baby squeeze: Keeping New Mexico lakes stocked for top-notch angling is messy affair

At least twice a year, fisheries staff at the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish get up close and very personal with several hundred fish.


More Winter Weather In Store For Region

Another round of winter weather is impacting New Mexico and some of that stuff will find its way to the Pecos Valley. The National Weather Service in Albuquerque says a Winter Storm Warning has been posted until five tomorrow morning for a good chunk of the state, including Chaves County.  Snow accumulations of two to six inches are possible in Eastern Lincoln, Northern Curry, Northern DeBaca and Northwestern Roosevelt Counties. They are asking that you use caution when traveling on US-70 and 380 through Chaves County during the forecast period. In Eddy County, a Wind Advisory has been posted until five this afternoon. A High Wind Warning has been posted for the Guadalupe Mountains through late tonight. The National Weather Service in Midland says snowfall is possible late this afternoon into tonight. Two inches could fall in the higher peaks of the Guadalupe’s and less than an inch is expected elsewhere. 


ECC To Meet

The Eddy County Commission will meet for the final time in 2011 this week. Commissioners have a packed agenda tomorrow. They’ll be dealing with some service awards, a bid award and a public hearing. The commission will also meet as the Indigent Hospital Claims Board. The meeting will start at 8:30 Tuesday morning in Carlsbad. 


Father Of Artesia School Board Member Passes Away

 


New Mexicans help stop chimp research

Experiments with chimps should be `last resort`
ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Animal rights advocates claimed a huge victory Thursday in fighting to stop research on chimpanzees.


`Tax climate` study ranks New Mexico dead last

Without its myriad of economic development tax incentives, New Mexico comes in dead last among the states in terms of its tax climate for businesses, a new study of the state’s tax structure shows.


New Mexico`s Susan Martinez Among Possible GOP Vice Presidential Candidates

With the Iowa Caucus just a few weeks away and the GOP primary race slowly evolving into a dogfight between former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, it is never too early to begin pondering who should be the GOP’s vice presidential nominee. Below are some of the names that have been mentioned as possible VP running mates. I explore each individuals’ strengths and their weaknesses.


Prices ease in New Mexico, West; unchanged nationwide

Consumer prices in New Mexico and other western states were down a slight 0.2 percent in November from the previous month after being unchanged in October, although they rose 3.2 percent from a year earlier, according to the monthly Consumer Price Index report for the West, issued Friday.


New Mexico legislators look to curb charter school costs

One of Albuquerque’s charter schools, Academia de Lengua Y Cultura, offers a dual-language middle-school curriculum, with teachers in some classes giving lessons in English and Spanish on alternating days. Across town, the Cottonwood Classical Preparatory School, which takes students from sixth grade through high school, emphasizes seminar discussions and offers advanced international diplomas. The Southwest Secondary Learning Center, meanwhile, reinforces math, science and engineering lessons by allowing students to maintain and fly real airplanes


Dems win court ruling

State Supreme Court says Martinez illegally vetoed part of bill to stop tax increase
SANTA FE -- The state Supreme Court dealt Gov. Susana Martinez another defeat Wednesday, ruling that she illegally vetoed part of a bill to stop a tax increase.


Maryland Expected To Hire Mike Locksley As New Offensive Coordinator, According To Report

It was announced yesterday that Offensive Coordinator Gary Crowton would not be returning to the team next year. According to various reports, including this one from Jeff Barker of the Baltimore Sun, the University is expected to hire former New Mexico head coach and Maryland assistant Mike Locksley to the same position.


NM reaches settlement over air quality violations

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - A subsidiary of Xcel Energy Inc. has reached an $800,000 settlement with the New Mexico Environment Department over air quality violations at a natural gas-fired power plant in southeastern New Mexico.


SF SHERIFF PATROL THIS WEEKEND

The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office will be conducting a DWI Saturation Patrol this weekend.


First Gentleman Chuck Franco to Join Volunteers to Deliver Christmas Gifts for Foster Children

SANTA FE – First Gentleman Chuck Franco will join Sandia National Lab Employees and volunteers at the Children, Youth, and Families Department’s Lamberton Office in Albuquerque to unload and sort over 400 Christmas gifts for New Mexico foster children today at 11:30am at the CYFD Lamberton Office (1031 Lamberton Pl., NE, Albuquerque).


New rehab program up and running

Thanks to a $150,000 alcohol and detoxification treatment program grant from the New Mexico Department of Finance, residents of Socorro County with substance abuse and addiction issues have a new place to seek help.


Audubon New Mexico’s annual bird count takes flight

Birding enthusiasts will fan out across New Mexico starting Dec. 14 as part of an annual bird count by Audubon New Mexico.


New Mexico ranked among worst in nation in child homelessness

EL PASO - New Mexico - ranked 45 - was among the 10 worst states in the nation for child homelessness, while Texas - ranked 38 - was only slightly better, according to a just-released report by the National Center on Family Homelessness.


New Ute water project program manager in place

The Eastern New Mexico Water Utility Authority on Tuesday cut its ties with longtime Program Manager Scott Verhines, clearing the way for him to fill the office of state engineer.


US Senator Bingaman Comments on Climate Talks

Bingaman comments on the 17th annual U.N. climate talks that took place in Durban, South Africa. (Actuality 3:03)


PART 2 - Bingaman Talks About Senate Agenda for the Remainder of the Year

U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today gave an overview of what the Senate hopes to accomplish before Congress adjourns for the holiday recess. (Actuality 1:52)


US Senator Bingaman Comments on Defense Authorization Bill

Bingaman comments on a provision in the defense authorization bill that deals with the detention of U.S. citizens and terror suspects on U.S. soil (Actuality 1:34)


US Senator Bingaman Answers Questions from NM Broadcasters

Bingaman comments on news that the number of National Guard troops patrolling the U.S.-Mexico border will be decreased next year. (Actuality 1:52)


Bingaman Talks About Senate Agenda for the Remainder of the Year

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today gave an overview of what the Senate hopes to accomplish before Congress adjourns for the holiday recess. (Actuality 2:30)


Four Corners superintendent facing possible suspension

KOB Eyewitness News 4 received a long letter from a Four Corners superintendent to the state, responding to accusations of mismanagement from the Public Education Department.


Ohio, New Mexico sign concealed-carry reciprocity pact

COLUMBUS —Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine and New Mexico Department of Public Safety Cabinet Secretary Gorden E. Eden, Jr. signed an agreement that permits reciprocity between their states for citizens who have valid concealed-carry permits.


Holtz believes New Mexico can win

Albuquerque (KRQE) - Former Notre Dame coach Lou Holtz is in Albuquerque to participate in a motivational speaking event. The retired coach and current broadcaster took time to visit his old friend and University of New Mexico new head football coach Bob Davie Monday


Hounds name new football coach

Former Eastern New Mexico University player and graduate assistant Josh Lynn plans to hit the ground running in his new position as the school’s football coach.


Carlsbad, Eddy County warned on rabid skunks

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - The New Mexico Department of Health officials are warning pet and livestock owners in Carlsbad and surrounding areas of Eddy County to get animals vaccinated after three skunks tested positive for rabies.


New Mexico Donor Services celebrates life, seeks more organ donors

People who have been affected by organ donation gathered to celebrate, “The Gift of Life,” on Sunday.
The New Mexico Donor Services hosted the party for people who have received organs, their families and living donors. Paul Romero received his lifesaving liver transplant in June.


Wet Storm To Hit New Mexico


Rain, Snow Expected In Albuquerque

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Another blast of wet weather is headed for New Mexico, but warmer temperatures will result in more rain than snow, First Alert Chief Meteorologist Joe Diaz said.


Medical marijuana users increase in NM

SANTA FE — Selling marijuana to help the sick is a growth industry in New Mexico, but one that Gov. Susana Martinez would just as soon eliminate.


De Los Santos, New Mexico Man, Steals Charity Jar TWICE


ROSWELL, N.M. -- Police in New Mexico say they have captured a man caught on surveillance video twice stealing cash-filled charity jars from a local grocery store.


Radio vignettes on New Mexico history showcase colorful past

President William Howard Taft, Pancho Villa, Buffalo Soldier George Jordan. Gov. Charles Bent, lawman/gunslinger/lawyer/politician Elfego Baca, Gen. Stephen Watts Kearny. And Smokey Bear and HAM the Space Chimp.
These are just some of the characters associated with the rich history of New Mexico. And all of them, plus many others, are subjects of two-minute oral history vignettes in a radio series produced by The New Mexico Centennial Steering Committee.


New Mexico judge`s bribery case is one for the books

A judge in Las Cruces — who called himself `rude, crude and socially unacceptable` — is accused of soliciting campaign contributions in return for political favors.
Reporting from Albuquerque— It wasn`t a good day for New Mexico`s judiciary when a district judge in Las Cruces, the state`s second-largest city, was indicted last spring on bribery charges for allegedly soliciting campaign contributions in return for political favors.


NM projects extra revenue for next year`s budget

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - Republican Gov. Susana Martinez and the Democratic-controlled Legislature will have about $250 million available for budget increases and to potentially allow for tax cuts in the upcoming fiscal year, according to an updated revenue forecast issued Monday.


Senator Bingaman Talks About WIPP

Bingaman talks about funding in the defense authorization bill for WIPP.  (Actuality 1:05)


Senator Bingaman Talks About US Post Office Closures in NM

Bingaman comments on the U.S. Postal Service`s proposal to close over 50 post offices in New Mexico. (Actuality 1:37)


Senator Bingaman Talks About Sand Dune Lizard

Bingaman comments on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service`s decision to delay a decision on placing the Sand Dune Lizard on the endangered species list. (Actuality 1:09)


Senator Bingaman Talks About Partisan Wrangling in Congress

Senator Bingaman spoke with NM reporters on Monday aout his view on the state of political discourse in Washington. (Actuality :58)


Senator Bingaman Talks About Upcoming Senate Schedule

Senator Bingaman spoke with NM reporters on Monday regarding the prospects of the Congress getting work done before the holiday break. (Actuality 2:42)


Laguna Pueblo man arrested for fatal I-40 crash

Laguna Police arrested a Laguna Pueblo man early Thursday for driving while intoxicated following an I-40 crash west of Albuquerque that killed two people on Nov. 20.


Some disciplined NM officers still carry badges

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.—At least 60 police officers statewide who have been disciplined by the departments they work for - some even fired - are still licensed to carry badges and guns according to the Albuquerque Journal. Staff at the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy, which certifies men and women to be police officers, say the state Attorney General`s Office has failed at making the state`s case for sanctions against officers` certifications during administrative hearings.


State Police Officer Arrested


CARLSBAD, N.M. -- A New Mexico State Police officer has been arrested and charged with battery against a household member.


NM school coach enters `not guilty` plea in slapping case

CARLSBAD, N.M. — A Carlsbad-area school coach accused of slapping a volleyball player at a seventh-grade volleyball game has pleaded not guilty to the charges.


Rocket launches from Spaceport

UPHAM, N.M. (AP) - New Mexico Spaceport Authority officials say a rocket has successfully launched from the desert outpost. The advanced rocket designed and built by Armadillo Aerospace launched into space last weekend.


Cockerell`s bumblebee rediscovered in New Mexico

Cockerell`s bumblebee was first discovered in the region back in 1913. The most recent finding of Cockerell`s bumblebee was this past August.
An elusive bumblebee, which was last seen in 1956, was recently found living in the White Mountains of south-central New Mexico, scientists announced Monday.


Governor promises 3rd try at repealing driver`s license law

SANTA FE -- New Mexico attracts con artists from all over the world because it issues driver`s licenses to illegal immigrants, Gov. Susana Martinez said Wednesday.


Lawmakers paint brighter Legislature picture

What a difference a year makes. This time around the tone from lawmakers is radically different than it was just a year ago, as they tune up for a January budgeting session of the Legislature.


UNM Board of Regents Names Presidential Finalists

The Uni­ver­sity of New Mex­ico Board of Regents has named five final­ists in the search to suc­ceed Pres­i­dent David Schmidly, when he leaves the pres­i­dency in June 2012.


UPDATE: LATEST ROAD CONDITIONS

**ALL LANES EAST AND WEST BOUND ARE NOW OFFICIALLY REOPENED**TRAVELERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO USE CAUTION**


Early Snows Have Ski Leaders Optimistic

Sandia Peak to Open Dec. 17
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- The early December snow has Sandia Peak ski officials hoping to rebound with a good ski season.


New Mexico nurses praised at annual awards; UNM nursing dean receives top honor

Twenty-five nurses and one friend of nursing received awards during the 2011 New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence ceremony Oct. 15 at the Hyatt Tamaya Resort in Albuquerque, N.M.


Winter storm shuts down schools, imperils drivers

A powerful winter storm has closed schools and imperiled drivers across New Mexico with freezing temperatures and blowing snow.


NM couple arrested in prostitution case

Alamogordo couple arrested in prostitution case
ALAMOGORDO, N.M. (AP) - Police in Alamogordo say they arrested a husband and wife on prostitution charges during an undercover operation at an Alamogordo area hotel.


Debate over $6B Los Alamos nuke lab

(AP) SANTA FE, N.M. - At Los Alamos National Laboratory, scientists and engineers refer to their planned new $6 billion nuclear lab by its clunky acronym, CMRR, short for Chemistry Metallurgy Research Replacement Facility. But as a work in progress for three decades and with hundreds of millions of dollars already spent, nomenclature is among the minor issues.


Retirement age, compensation in Legislature`s sights

The New Mexico State Legislature is to vote in January on a measure that would reduce benefits for retirees and establish a minimum retirement age after the measure passed in legislative committee on Friday.


New Mexico Mortgage Rates at 4.14%

New Mexico (Rate Wire) -- The benchmark 30-year fixed mortgage rate in NM has moved down since the beginning of the year.


NM ROADS UPDATE

****BLOWING SNOW IS NOW CAUSING VISIBILITY ISSUES IN THE AREA ****


Census Bureau: New Mexico`s population 65 years and older among nation`s fastest-growing

SANTA FE, N.M. — The Census Bureau reports New Mexico`s older population was among the nation`s fastest growing during the past decade.


N.M. redistricting fight comes to Navajo Nation

State Rep. Ray Begaye, who has represented District 4 in northwest New Mexico since 1999, accuses a Republican cabal inside the Navajo Nation leadership of trying to turn back the clock and dilute the strength of Native American voters in his district in the fight over redistricting now before the New Mexico Supreme Court.


Protest divides over its name

The Albuquerque chapter of the movement that protests corporate greed and socioeconomic imbalance split last week over disagreements regarding the name of the movement.


Legislature to look at unemployment fund

A proposal to address the solvency of the public educator`s retirement fund in New Mexico will be advanced to the state Legislature.


Legislators want to limit companies` liability on flights to outer space

SANTA FE - Space travelers who launch from New Mexico would lose the right to sue in most cases of injury or death, under a bill endorsed Thursday by a legislative committee. The proposed law would limit lawsuits against manufacturers and suppliers of spacecraft.


Legislators want say on Medicaid revamp

Panel backs measure to have Legislature OK changes
Under a proposal backed by a legislative committee Thursday, lawmakers would have to sign off on all significant changes to Medicaid proposed by Gov. Susana Martinez and her administration.


Report: Feds Probing Bill Richardson About Alledged Payoff to Mistress

Former New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, who ran for president as a Democrat in 2008, is being investigated by a federal grand jury over allegations that campaign supporters paid off a woman who claimed she was his mistress, according to a news report.


SENM Drug Bust

The Pecos Valley Drug Task Force says agents from all levels have made numerous arrests thanks to a year-long investigation into a major meth trafficking organization based in Eddy County. Officials say the arrests are the result of a grand jury returning a two-count indictment charging nearly 20 alleged members with conspiracy to violate federal law. Another three individuals were charged with meth trafficking offenses in criminal complaints filed earlier this week. Nine people with addresses in both Eddy and Chaves Counties were busted. Four other defendants who were charged in criminal complaints were also taken down. The investigation is continuing and more arrests are expected.


Power Companies Ready For Winter Storm

The National Weather Service in Albuquerque says a winter storm watch is still in effect for parts of Chaves County starting tomorrow afternoon and lasting until Saturday. A major winter storm is blowing this way and colder temperatures and a mixed bag of winter precip is also expected.  Rain, snow and freezing rain are forecast for the region. Nearly three inches of snow is forecast for the Roswell area.  A Spokesman for Xcel Energy says they are keeping an eye on the situation and crews will be ready if the storm causes trouble. Meanwhile a Spokeswoman for Central Valley Electric says their customers in the rural areas won’t be in the dark if the storm causes problems. Rae Lynn Bean says their crews are standing by as well.


Criminal Complaint Filed Against Artesia Man

The Artesia Police Department says a Criminal Complaint has been filed against a David Rosales. He’s been charged with Aggravated Battery. Spokesman Sgt. Lindell Smith says Zia School was locked down for a while yesterday due to this incident.


We just ask for the same respect


Black Student Union President D’Andre Q. Curtis said the recent Title VI discrimination complaint filed against UNM reflects a reality at UNM: African Americans aren’t treated equally.


Agents charge 20 in New Mexico meth ring bust

(Reuters) - Federal authorities on Wednesday said they had broken up a methamphetamine trafficking ring that supplied large amounts of the illegal drug to towns in southeastern New Mexico.


Richardson Feels New Heat

Grand Jury Looks at Whether Former Governor Arranged Payments to Woman
A federal grand jury is investigating former New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson over possible campaign-finance violations stemming from his 2008 presidential run, including allegations that he arranged for supporters to pay off a woman who planned to say they had engaged in an extramarital affair, according to people familiar with the inquiry.


WX Changes Coming To SENM

The National Weather Service says some big changes are coming to the area weather picture.  They say a strong cold front will blow into the area tomorrow and it will bring in colder air. They also say an approaching upper level low over the Southwestern US will spread moisture over this cold air. They also say this will set up an extended period of possible wintry precip across the area starting late tomorrow and lasting through Saturday. Forecasters also say that light snow, freezing rain and a rain and snow mix will be possible across the Pecos Valley during the forecast period. It’s been a while since we've seen this kind of weather in the area and the New Mexico Department of Transportation is asking that you review some winter weather driving etiquette. They ask that you reduce your speed, keep your gas tank full and plan ahead.  For the latest road conditions, you can log on to nmroads-dot-com or call 5-1-1.


FA Says AMR Bankruptcy Shouldn't Hurt Roswell Flights

American Airlines parent company AMR Corp. has filed for bankruptcy after failing to secure cost-cutting labor agreements and sitting out a round of mergers that dropped it to the number three airline in the US. People in southeast New Mexico won’t notice any changes for the near term according to a Financial Analyst.  Clark Hodges has been following the money troubles at American for sometime. American Eagle, which is part of the AMR family, flies out of the Roswell Airport.


Trio Keeping Heat On Feds And Lizard

This year there have been three people carrying the flag against a US Fish and Wildlife Service proposal to list the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard as an Endangered Species. Congressman Steve Pearce, Eddy County Commissioner Lewis Derrick and Marita Noon of the Citizens Alliance For Responsible Energy have been keeping the issue on the front burner for a good portion of this year. All three say the listing could have a negative impact on the region’s economy. Congressman Pearce and some other members of the US House have sent a letter to Interior boss Ken Salazar opposing the proposed listing. They’re also calling for a six month delay. Noon is asking people to put the heat on Salazar by calling his Washington, DC office.


Two Lovington Men Killed In Tuesday Crashes

The New Mexico State Police report that two Lovington men died in a pair of traffic crashes yesterday.  The first was reported around 7:45 yesterday morning nearly 30 miles west of Lovington and the deceased has been identified as Richard Lennox. They say a tanker trailer he was driving was involved in a single vehicle crash. The other crash was reported last night on Eddy County Road 248 and it involved a 2004 Kenworth Commercial Motor Vehicle driven by Jose Valdez, Jr. As a result of the crash, State Police say the road was closed for seven hours. Officials say booze wasn’t a contributing factor in either crash, however excessive speed and driver inattention have been listed as factors. 


Chino: Mescalero tribe opposes designation

The possibility of a Fort Sill Apache casino between Las Cruces and Deming does not sit well with the president of the Mescalero Apache Tribe. A statement read by Mark Chino, before the New Mexico Legislature`s Interim Indian Affairs Committee in August, questioned the authority of the Oklahoma tribe`s to obtain reservation status in New Mexico.


American Indian veterans get $825K in reimbursements

FARMINGTON — About 660 American Indian veterans in New Mexico have received reimbursements of state income taxes wrongly withheld from their pay while they served on active military duty. The payments total more than $825,000 but fall short of the $1.2 million allocated for refunds, the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department reported.


Federal grant helps New Mexico establish health care exchange

New Mexico is to receive a $34.2 million federal grant to create a health insurance exchange.


Miranda Serna laid to rest in New Mexico

MORA, N.M. (KRQE) - The assistant basketball coach from Oklahoma State University who died in a plane crash was buried over the weekend in New Mexico.


New Mexico lawsuit names Primus Group

Third-party auditors Primus Group Inc. and Bio Food Safety Inc. have been named in a lawsuit seeking compensation for survivors of a victim of the foodborne illness linked to cantaloupe from Jensen Farms in Colorado. Other defendants in the lawsuit are Jensen Farms and Frontera Produce Ltd.


New Mexico cheese, wines star at Carlsbad`s Winter Wine Festival

CARLSBAD — Two small business dairymen from northern New Mexico will be coming to Carlsbad to sell, sample and pair their large variety of cheeses with wines that will be featured at this weekend`s Winter Wine Festival.


Bingaman Talks About Air Force Training In Northern NM

Bingaman comments on proposed low-level flights by the U.S. Air Force over northern New Mexico and southern Colorado.


Bingaman Talks About the `Super Committee` Stalemate

Bingaman answers several questions about how the `super committee`s` announcement last week that it could not reach a deal would affect cuts to Medicare.


Bingaman Talks About Defense Authorization Bill

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today talked about the defense authorization bill being debated in the Senate and about funding in the bill to support New Mexico`s military instillations.


Artesia Hospital Experiencing Patient Increases

It looks like more people are turning to Artesia General Hospital for healthcare needs. William Zemanek (Zuh-man-ik), part of AGH`s Brain Trust, briefed the Artesia Special Hospital District Board of Directors during last night`s monthly meeting. Zemanek credits a heavy advertising campaign, especially in the outlying areas for leading to the increase in patients at AGH.


Traffic Death Reported Near Artesia

The New Mexico State Police say a Pecos Valley resident died over the weekend in a traffic crash. Lucas Dunahoo was pronounced dead early Saturday morning, after officers were called to the crash scene. They say he was traveling on State Road 2 when he failed to negotiate a curve. He then over-corrected the vehicle and rolled several times striking a barbed wire fence. He was partially ejected, excessive speed and alcohol are listed as contributing factors in the crash.


Holloman To Conduct Night Flights

HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, NEW MEXICO (krwg) - HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. (KRWG) Holloman Air Force Base says its 49th Wing will be conducting routine F-22 Raptor night flying training during the next two weeks.


New Mexico added jobs in October, unemployment sits at 6.6%

New Mexico added 5,000 jobs between October 2010 and October 2011, according to the Department of Workforce Solutions.


La Niña: Its impact on New Mexico weather

I already know the answer. So here`s the question: Is it possible to get decent weather predictions for winter now that we know about La Niña? Recently Jeff Anderson, an NMSU horticulturalist, suggested to Sun-News reporter Diana Alba, the long-range forecast for southern New Mexico indicates the strong effects from La Niña may mean we have another cold winter ahead of us.


New Coast Guard cutter bears name of Native New Mexican who saved others

BENBROOK -- The U.S. Coast Guard is scheduled to introduce its newest fast-response cutter to the waters of the Gulf of Mexico this week.


The phantom menace: Gary Johnson considering third-party run

Long excluded from the Republican presidential debates, former New Mexico Governor Gary Johnson is now seriously considering a third party run for president in 2012.


Blacks Charge Discrimination at University of New Mexico

A group of Black pastors and civil rights activists say the Southwestern college actively discriminates against African-American employees.A new discrimination allegation happening in New Mexico right now is scary not only because of the discrimination itself, but also what it could mean for the future.


GOP Latinos face questions over immigrant pasts

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez is forced to research and clarify her late grandfather`s immigration status. Marco Rubio, Florida`s GOP Senator, is accused of embellishing his family`s immigrant story. A Republican congressional candidate in California puts on his website that he is the great-grandson of an illegal immigrant.


Carlsbad Anti Drug Group Is Asking People To Watch Out For Fake Drugs

Alison Bryant of the Carlsbad Anti Drug and Gang Coalition is asking parents and adults to find out what synthetic drugs look like. She says the older generation has a duty to protect the younger generation. The medical profession says the synthetic drugs are a mixture of natural items that are laced with synthetic materials to imitate a high. Bryant says the fake drugs are just as deadly as the illegal ones. If you'd like more info you can call Bryant at 706-4132.


Artesia Police Make Arrests

The Artesia Police Department reports that two arrests were made earlier today. The first was a DWI at 13th and Bullock. The other took place in the 17-hundred block of Jacobs, the suspect was taken in and charged with Battery Against A Household Member.


Artesia City Council To Meet

The Artesia City Council is set to meet tonight. The meeting will start at seven. The Council will hear some special presentations from employees of the museum and police department. They’re also being asked to hire an IT Tech. The council is also being asked to solicit a Request For Proposal for some engineering services for the Community Development Block Grant project, which is remodeling the building that Presbyterian Medical Services occupies. The council will also go into closed session to discuss the termination of an Infrastructure Department employee.


Another Quake Hits Raton/Trinadad Area

A magnitude 3.4 (USGS) earthquake occurred early this morning MDT about 28 miles WNW of Raton, NM. This earthquake is the first since the 5.3 magnitude quake that hit the area on August 22, and is very likely a part of a swarm of earthquakes that started in August 2001 and produced numerous felt events in the region.


Texas couple jailed in New Mexico for allegedly trying to bribe Border Patrol agent


LAS CRUCES, N.M. — A Texas couple has been jailed on charges they tried to bribe a Border Patrol agent into letting them smuggle a family member and cocaine into the country.


New Mexico`s permanent funds decline over $1B during last quarter

SANTA FE, N.M. — New Mexico`s permanent funds dropped in value by more than $1 billion during the past quarter because of a downturn in global financial markets.


Mexican Cartel activity likely to rise in New Mexico

BLOOMFIELD — Mexican drug cartels are operating at increased levels within San Juan County, and they steadily are becoming more violent, according to Region II Narcotics Task Force Director Neil Haws.


New Mexico saved by golden goal

ALBUQUERQUE -- The magic of an undefeated season seemed to have deserted New Mexico for the first part of its second-round NCAA battle with Duke. However, the magic returned in the form of a game-tying screamer by Blake Smith and a golden-goal header by Carson Baldinger in the 98th minute.


Former Carlsbad Chamber Director Passes Away

The former Executive Director of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce has passed away. Chamber officials say funeral services are pending for Bob Bauman. A funeral notice from his family says he passed away last weekend from C-O-P-D. Carlsbad Chamber officials say they are waiting to see if Bauman qualifies for the National Veteran’s Cemetery in Dallas.


Secretary Of State 'Shocked' By Pedestrian Death


SANTA FE, N.M. -- Secretary of State Dianna Duran says her car was one of several that struck a man`s body on a highway near Santa Fe after the pedestrian had been hit and killed a short time earlier by another vehicle.


State reports 104 voters not citizens

Of those, 19 may have cast a ballot
SANTA FE (KRQE) - More than 100 noncitizens may have registered to vote over the last eight years, and of those 19 may have actually cast ballots, according to a report released Thursday by the Secretary of State`s office.


Schwarzenegger 'banged up' during filming in New Mexico

An accident during the filming of contemporary Western "The Last Stand" in Albuquerque, New Mexico left Arnold Schwarzenegger worse for wear today.


National reciprocity gun law debated

A bill is currently before Congress that, if passed, would mean states like New Mexico could soon be required to recognize out-of-state conceal and carry permits, even if the other state does not have the same regulations.


New Mexico Ski Season Launches Saturday

Vadito, NM - For powder-starved New Mexico skiers and snowboarders, the wait is nearly over as the first ski lifts in the state will start turning Saturday morning at Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort.


New Mexico introduces Bob Davie

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Loss after loss, season after season, New Mexico`s football team has been struggling.


Roswell Gang Member Going Away

A Spokesman for the Roswell Police Department says a noted gang member will be going away for the next few decades. Officer Travis Holley says Tommy Pena was sentenced in Federal Court yesterday. He says the Eastside Gang Member was convicted on eight federal offenses stemming from a carjacking and drive-by shooting that took place last year in Roswell. Holley says Pena was arrested after an investigation by his agency and the feds. Holley says a co-defendant was also arrested and pled guilty to the charges. Jeremy Ray Conde is in federal custody. He has yet to be sentenced.


SENM People Making Sure Troops Have Merry Christmas

There are some folks in our region who are making sure that our military personnel overseas have a Merry Christmas. Jimi Ginzling and his wife have been working for a few months with Christmas For Our Troops. He says they’re getting close to their goal of 25-hundred Military Post Offices and names.  They’ll be at Walmart in Artesia this weekend. If you'd like to help Ginzling you can call 575-457-2508. PVT is encouraging area residents to donate used cell phones to the Cell Phones for Soldiers program. It allows deployed and returning troops the chance to communicate with family members at no charge. You can take your used cell phone to any PVT retail store in Artesia, Carlsbad or Roswell.


Artesia Police Make Arrests

The Artesia Police Department reports that one arrest was made last night. After eight, a Jason Shirley was arrested in the 37-hundred block of West Smith and was charged with Negligent Use Of A Deadly Weapon. The Department also reports that two men were arrested after they attempted to burglarize a home in the 11-hundred block of Centre this morning. Spokesman Sgt. Lindell Smith says Joeseph Olivos and Angel Saiz were taken into custody and charged with several crimes connected to the incident after an alert citizen called the burglary in. Sgt. Smith says Olivos was witnessed leaving the scene when an officer arrived. The suspect was told to stop and a Taser was used. The alleged hooligan left the area on a bike, until it struck a stationary police car. He was taken into custody. Saiz stayed at the house and was later taken in.


Oversight Panel Holds Hearing On LANL Safety

LOS ALAMOS, NEW MEXICO (krwg) - SANTA FE, N.M. (KRWG) A nuclear oversight board is holding public hearings in Santa Fe Thursday on safety issues at Los Alamos National Laboratory.


New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez helps GOP governors group raise money in Texas

SANTA FE, N.M. — New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez is helping the Republican Governors Association raise money.


Lawmakers balk at new plan to divvy school cash

Report`s proposal would send $4 million more to Santa Fe
Santa Fe Public Schools would receive $4 million in additional state funding under a new study that suggests changes in the way New Mexico divvies up money for school districts and charter schools.


New Mexico OKs bids for bonds to finance $51M in capital improvement projects


SANTA FE, N.M. — The state Board of Finance says it is netting a nearly historic low rate on bonds to finance almost $51 million in capital improvements across New Mexico.


Police arrest suspect in shooting that hit White House

(Reuters) - Police arrested a 21-year-old man on Wednesday suspected of shooting at the White House last week, after federal agents found two bullets that had hit the mansion, including one that struck a window.


Dairy Settlement In The Hands Of NM Regulators

NEW MEXICO (krwg) - ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRWG) A state water panel is close to settling a dispute over the regulation of waste from New Mexico`s $2.6 billion dairy industry.


Former Roswell Resident Says Asia Isn't SENM

Robert Holcomb admits southeastern New Mexico isn’t Thailand. (Holcomb)


Glen Mason not interested in New Mexico job

Former University of Minnesota coach Glen Mason is not interested in the New Mexico coaching job, he wrote Tuesday on Twitter.


Election Day Set For Artesia Public Schools Mill Levy

Every day we`re reminded that the Presidential election is nearly a year away. Come February of next year, Artesia residents will be going to the polls to vote in a Two Mill Levy election, this will benefit the Artesia School District. Election Day is set for Feb. 7 and Supt. Mike Phipps says people can vote in three places. (Phipps II)


Congress will not pay for changes to school lunch menus

As Congress tries to cut fat from the country's budget, one of the things they are doing could actually lead to obese children.


Legislative Report Faults School Funding System


SANTA FE, N.M. -- New Mexico needs to revamp how it distributes more than $2 billion a year in taxpayer money to public schools because the current system is too complicated, difficult to administer and shortchanges needy students, according to a report released Wednesday.


Grand jury probes Richardson financing

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - A federal grand jury is investigating possible election violations surrounding former Governor Bill Richardson’s 2008 presidential campaign.


MEDIA ADVISORY----AGO Blog Updated

WHAT: AGO Blog: The Rest of the AGO Story UPDATED


Bingman Comments on Earthquake Safety at LANL

US Senator Jeff Bingaman comments on concerns over earthquake safety at Los Alamos National Laboratory.


Bingaman Comments on `Super Committee`

US Senator Jeff Bingaman comments on the work of the congressional 'super committee'.


Bingaman Talks About Supreme Court Consideration of Healthcare Bill

US Senator Jeff Bingaman comments on the announcement that the Supreme Court will consider the health insurance reform law that Congress passed last year.


Bingaman Talks About Bill to Create National Conservation Area in Northern New Mexico

U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today talked about a bill he wrote that seeks to protect and enhance cultural, ecological, recreational, and scenic resources on public lands in Northern New Mexico.


2011 State of the City Address

Albuquerque Mayor Richard J. Berry will deliver his 2011 State of the City Address on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at Don Newton-Taylor Ranch Community Center. Mayor Berry will focus on the progress Albuquerque is making and how City Hall is becoming more efficient, accountable, and transparent.


Silver Bullet Film Seeks Actor, Extras


SHIPROCK, N.M. -- A major movie production is looking for actors for the film "Silver Bullet."


New Mexico`s small towns ranked for brainpower

White Rock -- population 6,244 -- is a relatively small town in northern New Mexico. It's also very smart.


It`s Mason

It appears the new Lobo football coach is former Minnesota/Kansas head coach Glen Mason.


NM city fined for trench collapse

LAS VEGAS, N.M. (KRQE) - The city of Las Vegas has been hit with an $80,000 fine for a trench collapse that killed two city workers.


New Mexico fines prison operator $1.1 million for staffing shortage


SANTA FE, N.M. — The state is fining a private prison operator $1.1 million for not adequately staffing a prison it operates in Hobbs.


Cbad Council To Hold Special Meeting

The Carlsbad City Council will hold a Special Meeting this evening at six. The council is being asked to approve a Nuclear Industry Advocacy Committee and they’re asking the Eddy County Commission to come on board. The committee would be on the lookout for the nuclear industry and what is being called other appropriate industries in Carlsbad and Eddy County. The Eddy County Commission was asked to back a lobbyist for the WIPP site.  The county commission was divided on the issue last month.


Should Artesia High 8th Graders Be Allowed To Play HS Sports?

Should 8thGrade students be allowed to participate in the athletic programs at Artesia High School? That was a question put before the Artesia School Board last night.  KC Thalman told the board her daughter is active in many school programs. (Thalman)


New Mexico governor in Mexico for celebration of revolution, ancestor`s role as general

SANTA FE, N.M. — Gov. Susana Martinez is visiting Mexico for a celebration recognizing the role of her great-grandfather as a revolutionary general a century ago.


Smoke alarm: No noticeable decrease in American Indian smoking

FARMINGTON — Smokers across the country are kicking the habit.


Push to pay legislators may be gaining momentum

I authored a commentary in September arguing that we need to pay our state legislators; newspaper articles published this weekend may indicate that such an idea is gaining momentum.


State`s medical pot czar resigns

No reasons given for program director's surprise departure
The head of the New Mexico's medical marijuana program quietly resigned and nobody is saying why.


Mystery money funded State Fair center

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - The origin of a massive taxpayer-funded appropriation for an Albuquerque theater is as mysterious as the way the money was spent.


Mortgage rates in U.S., New Mexico fall below 4%

Long-term mortgage rates edged lower again this week, with the average rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage back below 4 percent.


Opener offers new, unknown challenge

The men’s basketball team goes in blind for the first regular season game.


Report: New Mexico foreclosures up 75 percent

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - Initial foreclosure actions filed in New Mexico district courts against homeowners jumped 75 percent last month, according to new data released Thursday.


Patience pays off for New Mexico

In an often grumbling world, want to hear about someone with an abundance of gratitude? Meet Victor Rodriguez, goalkeeper for the No. 1-ranked New Mexico men's soccer team.


APD Busy

A Spokesman for the Artesia Police Department says they`ve been busy. (Smith I)


Vet's Being Remembered In The PV

Tomorrow is Veteran`s Day and there are plenty of events going on around the region. The Artesia Historical Museum and Art Center will be hosting a reception tomorrow following the Vet`s Day program at the Artesia High Auditorium. Grand Heights Early Childhood Center will be hosting a come and go reception in the music room tomorrow morning from 9 to 11:30. Grand Heights will also have their Wall of Veterans on display. Carlsbad Veterans` Memorial Park will be dedicated tomorrow afternoon at one. It is located on James Street just east of the Lower Tansill Dam. Carlsbad will also host a parade. Since tomorrow is Veteran`s Day there will be no Pre-School Story Time at Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park near Carlsbad. The BLM says they will waive recreation-related fees for visitors during the holiday weekend and the same thing applies to the national parks as well, Carlsbad Caverns is included in that. Today`s soldiers will be getting back to civilian life someday and there is some help from the Employer Support Of the Guard and Reserve Program. (Battaglini)


NM Elementary Teacher Held For Trafficking Cocaine

LAS CRUCES, N.M. -- A Las Cruces elementary school teacher is being held on a $10,000 bond after being arrest for trafficking cocaine


New Mexico businesses offer freebies, discounts on Veterans Day

Businesses across New Mexico are offering specials and discounts to U.S. military veterans in recognition of Veterans Day on Nov. 11.


New Mexico secretary of state says voter records review find 641 dead people eligible to vote

SANTA FE, N.M. - A review of election records has found 641 dead New Mexicans remain on voter registration rolls, a top official in the secretary of state`s office said Wednesday.


High costs cited against NM's emissions rules

(AP) SANTA FE, N.M. — A top official with the New Mexico Environment Department on Tuesday pointed to concerns about higher utility costs as one reason the agency is no longer supporting state regulations aimed at curbing greenhouse gas emissions.


PRC creates new state vehicle rules

SANTA FE - Fresh from a scandal that ended the career of an elected commissioner, New Mexico's regulatory agency is tightening its policies on the use of state vehicles.


New Mexico state museums offer free admission to military on Veterans Day

Santa Fe, N.M. — State Museums and monuments are offering free admission on Veterans Day to New Mexico's active duty military personnel, veterans, their spouses and dependent children.


Build up to Bank Transfer Day a boon to New Mexico credit unions

Bank Transfer Day, the grass roots movement that urged bank customers to switch to credit unions on or before Nov. 5, has resulted in at least 5,100 new accounts for New Mexico’s credit unions, according to survey results released by the Credit Union National Association .Credit Union National Association Latest from The Business Journals Debit fee flap benefits local credit unions, smaller banksDebit-card rage, Bank Transfer Day bring customers to credit unions Bank Transfer Day adds .5 billion in deposits Follow this company.


Man Charged With Attempted Murder Of Mother In Las Cruces

LAS CRUCES (krwg) - A California man suspected of dressing in woman\'s clothing and severely beating his 58-year-old mother with a baseball bat was arrested by Las Cruces Police Monday afternoon after an alert neighbor interrupted the attack and called 911.


Woody Wright Gets Promotion

Woody Wright has played a key role with the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center since he started as an instructor. Now he is serving as Assistant Director of the Field Training Directorate. A Spokeswoman says he will lead FLETC’s three field sites, including the one in Artesia and he will be doing it from Eddy County. Wright has been involved with law enforcement for several decades, including a stint with the Artesia Police Department. Alicia Gregory says John Chavers is taking Wright’s place and will oversee the day-to-day functions of the FLETC site in Artesia.


NM governor looking at tax reform proposals

SANTA FE, N.M. - Officials in Gov. Susana Martinez\'s administration are looking at proposals to change corporate income and gross receipts taxes to improve New Mexico\'s economy and help businesses create jobs.


Cool Weather To Be Around SENM

Cooler weather is expected to impact the Pecos Valley over the next few days. (Malone)


National Orphan Sunday Highlighted In Artesia

Hundreds gathered at West Main Baptist Church for International Orphan Sunday. One of the organizers says it was put together by West Main Baptist and Harvest Fellowship and they were looking to bring awareness to the community. Figures show there are millions of children in foster care all across the world. Various entities were on hand, including the Children, Youth and Families Department. (Fitts) Out-our
process


Bingaman Talks with New Mexico Radio Reporters About Bill to Put Veterans Back to Work

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today talked with New Mexico radio reporters about a bill the Senate is expected to take up a jobs bill aimed at boost employment opportunities for veterans. Bingaman's remarks can be retrieved and followed:


Gonzales seeks re-election in Taos district

Sixteen-year-legislator Rep. Roberto “Bobby” Gonzales announced this week that he plans to seek re-election in 2012.


Senator Gives Approval To Appointment

Carlsbad State Senator Vernon Asbill is giving Gov. Susana Martinez thumbs up for the hiring of Scott Verhines as State Engineer. The senator says Verhines is a product of the Artesia Public Schools'. (Asbill)


Windy Weather Hits SENM

Regional Skywarn Coordinator Wendell Malone says Saturday was rough thanks to the wind. (Malone)


Train buffs view historic steam locomotive in NM

ALAMOGORDO, N.M. — Train buffs got a chance to view an historic Southern Pacific Railroad locomotive over the weekend as it passed through southern New Mexico.


UNDEFEATED!!

The men’s soccer team finishes its regular season with 12 straight wins
Senior midfielders Lance Rozeboom and Michael Green got a senior night gift like no other: the first undefeated season for the men’s soccer team.


Teacher On Leave After Sex Survey, School Says

Parents Say Anonymous Survey Went Too Far
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- A controversial sex survey landed one Rio Rancho biology teacher on paid leave.


Governor Susana Martinez to Address Las Cruces Economic Forum THIS MORNING

LAS CRUCES – Governor Susana Martinez will address a meeting of the Las Cruces Forum today at 11:30am at the Double Eagle Restaurant (2355 Calle de Guadelupe).


The New Green Revolution

Suggested lead: With an increasing world population, America will play a vital role in feeding a hungry planet. Dalene Hodnett has the details:


Agency merger idea lags in Legislature

Merging the state Cultural Affairs and Tourism departments into one agency could save up to $1.2 million over three years, legislators were told Thursday.


New Mexico defined as arid, barren, boring, artsy

Apparently New Mexico has a terrible image problem, or no image at all, among a coveted cohort of travelers.


Internet Outage Reported Statewide

It seems a lot of people in New Mexico were without Internet service for a while yesterday evening. A Spokesman for Century Link Communications says a power outage at one of their hubs was the culprit. He says it occurred after six last night in Albuquerque. Power restored by Public Service Company of New Mexico around seven. The glitch made its way to our region, according to Rae Aaron with PVT. She says their customers were having Internet trouble for nearly two hours. She says they weren't at full capacity. She says the trouble started around six yesterday evening and lasted until eight. The problems affected people living in Las Cruces as well.


Eddy County Gets First Killing Freeze Of Season

To say it was freezing cold this morning in the Pecos Valley would've been an understatement, according to Regional Skywarn Coordinator Wendell Malone. He says temperatures were below freezing this morning, which marks the first official killing freeze of the season. He says a warming trend is on the way along with more wind. (Malone) Out-the area Time-:35 The morning low at the NMSU Ag Sciences Center south of Artesia was 23.


ECC Tables Drug Proposal

Tuesday was another full day for the Eddy County Commission. Commissioners Lewis Derrick and Guy Lutman say the meeting lasted well into the afternoon. After discussing a pharmacy contract for the county slammer, the commission decided to deal with the issue at a later date.(Lutman) Out-local company Time-:30 It was revealed during the meeting that commissioner Jack Volpato is a co-owner of a company that has provided services to the jail for a long time.


New Mexico Tourism Association working to promote state

Spend more money and they will come – that is the message to state government from New Mexico's tourist industry.


New Mexico posts gains in key national education assessment

New Mexico has bested all but two other states and the District of Columbia on the math portion of the biennial National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP), posting improvements among fourth- and eighth-graders.


Antique Rifle Could Be Key in Manning's Murder Case


Target 7 Uncovers New Details In Thomas Manning Case
GRANT COUNTY, N.M. -- The attorney for the teenager charged with his father’s murder said she’s hopeful that she’s found a break in the case that will eventually set the teen free.


Man gets married, then arrested

Wanted gang member
ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - From wedding bells to jail cells, a New Mexico newlywed said his vows and then was taken down by U.S. Marshals as he was headed to consummate his marriage.


New Mexico number one for overdose deaths

According to a new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report, New Mexico leads the nation per capita in drug overdose deaths.


Artesia Rodeo Team Hosting Fundraisers

The fall season has wrapped up for the Artesia High Rodeo team. They now have a couple of months to get ready for the spring. Over the course of the next couple of weeks, the team will be holding one of their fundraisers at Henry’s BBQ in Artesia. (Mauldin) Out-Bulldog athletes Time-:27 That is Chris Mauldin of the Rodeo Booster Club. The fundraising will start tomorrow afternoon at 4:30.


More Street Work Coming To Artesia

Artesia City officials say work has started on the Street Maintenance Project and work will continue starting tomorrow and lasting until Friday. A large chunk will be affected during the construction period. The work will take place from Fifth to Texas and that includes Main to Chisum. Officials are asking that you remove your vehicles off the street between the hours of seven in the morning until 5:30 in the afternoon. They also ask that you shut your sprinklers off during the same time frame. They also say that if you have any vehicles are left on the street, they will be towed at your expense.


C-bad Postmaster Talks About USPS Troubles

We have some more information on a story that we brought you recently. You heard comments from Senator Jeff Bingaman and the possible closure of more than 50 post offices in the state. Not only are the Lakewood, Loco Hills and Maljamar Post Offices on the block, but there are also some post offices in the Sacramento Mountain communities that face possible closure too. The Post Office troubles aren’t limited to the small communities. The population centers are facing them as well. (Mendoza) Out-curbside Time-:27 That is Carlsbad Postmaster Luis Mendoza. He talked about the USPS problems before the Carlsbad City Council last week.


Drug cocktail to blame in NMSU death

LAS CRUCES (KRQE) - Police say the student at New Mexico State University who died this weekend was on drugs when he either fell or jumped from a building.


NM has paid tax refunds of $825K to Native American veterans

SANTA FE, N.M. — State officials say New Mexico has paid refunds of more than $825,000 to Native American veterans who had state income taxes wrongly withheld from their pay while serving on active duty in the military.


Angel Gala Comes To Roswell

The Community Foundation of Chaves County’s Ninth Annual Angel Gala and Silent Auction is set for this weekend at Pioneer Bank in Roswell. Susie Russell of the Foundation says it was founded just before the turn of the last century after Eastern New Mexico Medical Center evolved into a for profit entity. (Russell I) Out-charitable giving Time-:23 Tickets for the gala are 20 bucks in advance or 25 bucks at the door. Russell says advance tickets can be purchased at her office on West Second and at the Administration Office at ENMU-R and at the Roswell Chamber of Commerce.


Udall-Bingaman Meet With Postmaster General

U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman says he and Senator Tom Udall have met with the Postmaster General regarding the possible closure of a lot of Post Offices in New Mexico. Some of those are located in our region.(Bing) Out-of those Time-:23 The Senator spoke with us yesterday during a conference call. The Lakewood, Loco Hills and Maljamar Post Offices are among those that officials are looking at closing.


One Dexter boy killed, three others critically injured in Saturday crash

A 14-year old Dexter boy was killed early Saturday in a rollover crash that happened as a result of a police chase.


Artesia Woman Remembers DLG

Nancy Husselman is the Manager of the Artesia Drug and Crime Coalition. She has been a resident of Artesia since the mid 1970’s and like many who attended Thursday’s Open House and remembrance of Dena Lynn Gore’s life, she recalls when the young girl lost her life in 1986. (Husselman) Out-they were Time-:30 The young girl lost her life at the hands of Terry Clark. He pled guilty to kidnapping and murder. The State Supreme Court overturned the sentence years later saying his rights were violated. After that, a second jury decided he should die for his crimes. He was executed in 2001. Besides Husselman, other members of the community were on hand at the ceremony.


ECC To Meet

This coming Tuesday marks Nov. 1st and that means Eddy County Commission fans will be in for a big day as the commission is set to meet Tuesday. As always the commission has a busy day ahead of them. They will hold a Public Hearing on a personnel ordinance. They’ll also get an update from a couple of Community Service Groups. They include the Carlsbad Honor Guard and Paws and Claws. The head of the Eddy County Slammer, Robert Stewart, will make some presentations before the commission and they’re also being asked to approve a couple of indigent burials and a cremation authorization agreement. The meeting will start at 8:30 in Carlsbad.


Artesia Police Warn Of Sex Offenders On Halloween

With Halloween fast approaching, the Artesia Police Department says there’s a way to keep track of sex offenders living within Artesia proper. (Smith) Out-sex offenders there Time-:38 That is Artesia Police Spokesman Sgt. Lindell Smith. He says various law agencies will be out in mass Monday night making sure Trick-or-Treaters around Artesia are safe.


New Mexico family sues hotel over alleged peeping


ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - A New Mexico family is suing an Albuquerque hotel, claiming they caught a worker peeping into their room while they showered.


New Mexico fugitive will ask for release on Guam

A fugitive who is wanted in New Mexico on child rape allegations will ask a local judge to put him under house arrest so he can spend time with his family before he is extradited.


(Un)occupy Albuquerque to hold Saturday march

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - Organizers with Albuquerque's version of the national anti-Wall Street rallies have announced that they will hold a march at the site where around two dozen protesters were arrested.


Crucial LightSquared Tests Begin In New Mexico

Additional government testing of GPS receivers for interference from LightSquared’s broadband-wireless network under a revised deployment plan is getting under way at Holloman AFB, N.M.


New Mexico woman goes directly to jail after Monopoly game sparks stabbing

SANTA FE, N.M. -- A New Mexico woman was in dire need of a "Get Out of Jail Free" card Thursday after cops took her in for allegedly stabbing her boyfriend during a feisty game of Monopoly.


New DOI Initiative Aims To Facilitate Permitting Of Large-Scale Solar Projects On Public Lands

U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Ken Salazar has announced a supplement to the federal plan to facilitate responsible utility-scale solar development on public lands in six Western states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah.


Johnson rushes to file New Hampshire paperwork

Manchester, New Hampshire (CNN) - Heading off an embarrassing blunder, former New Mexico Gov. Gary Johnson will file his paperwork for candidacy in New Hampshire's primary Friday - the day of the filing deadline.


Financial woes plague legislative service

SANTA FE, NM (KRQE) - Because New Mexico is the only state in the country that doesn’t pay legislators a salary, most state senators and representatives take a financial hit in order to serve in the Legislature.


Dena Lynn Gore Remembered

The Artesia Chamber of Commerce was packed late yesterday afternoon as people from all walks of life gathered to honor the life of Dena Lynn Gore. She was tragically murdered several decades ago by Terry Clark. Her life was remembered by the Artesia Drug and Crime Coalition. Mat Weeks of Faith Baptist Church was one of those who attended. (Weeks) Out-much it Time-:26 Weeks is the Children’s Pastor at Faith Baptist. The Child Lures Safety Guide he was talking about can be picked up at the Coalition’s office at the Chamber of Commerce.


Smoke Reported West Of Artesia

Artesia Fire Marshal James Abner says the smoke mystery reported around 8:30 this morning west of Artesia has been solved. He says someone decided to burn trash and some tires. He says the fire took place in the Sun Country Volunteer Fire Department's district and they were fighting the blaze. He also says the Eddy County Sheriff's Office will be paying the resident a visit. Abner says burning tires is against state law. He says that's an environmental hazard.


NM election group plans public hearing on presidential popular vote proposal


LAS CRUCES - Spaceport America's future hinges upon a proposed change in the law being pitched for next year's Legislature, spaceport officials contended Tuesday.


Liability law change sought for spaceport

LAS CRUCES - Spaceport America's future hinges upon a proposed change in the law being pitched for next year's Legislature, spaceport officials contended Tuesday.


Cotter plans to reopen uranium mill near Canon City

Cotter Corp.`s uranium mill near Canon City plans to restart operations using ore shipped in from New Mexico, according to a letter filed with the state.


NM Court asks for more arguments in veto case


New Mexico's Supreme Court wants lawyers for Republican Gov. Susana Martinez and Democratic lawmakers to address a new legal question in a dispute over the governor's veto of a $128 million tax increase on businesses to shore up New Mexico's unemployment compensation fund.


NM: Protesters arrested at anti-Wall Street rally

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - More than a dozen protesters with Albuquerque's version of the national anti-Wall Street rallies were arrested late Tuesday at the University of New Mexico after the school ordered them out of a makeshift campsite.


New Mexico pump prices still well below U.S. average


Motorists in New Mexico continue to see pump prices below the national average this week.


Fence, Surveillance & Troops Lead to Drop in Apprehensions in El Paso, Border Patrol Says

A new fence, more agents and updated technology have resulted in a 90 percent drop over a five-year span in the apprehensions of undocumented immigrants along the divide between El Paso, Texas, and Mexico, the U.S. Border Patrol says.


Plan would send SRS plutonium to New Mexico


AIKEN, S.C. -- Energy Department officials are considering shipping some plutonium from the Savannah River Site near Aiken to a federal storage site in New Mexico.


Recession hits New Mexico's business services sector hard


The slump in business activity the past four years is reflected in the employment decline for professional and business services in New Mexico and other states.


Popular country radio duo let go

If you listen to country music, your morning drive may not be quite the same.


Ski resorts welcome cold weather, snow

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Ski Santa Fe is getting a good dose of snow, but ski directors there it will take a lot more to get Ski Santa Fe opened by Thanksgiving.


National Guard Recruiter Arrested In Clovis


CLOVIS, N.M. -- A National Guard recruiter from Lubbock has been arrested in Clovis on suspicion of child solicitation.


Plenty Of Halloween Happenings In The EC

Halloween is almost here and there are plenty of things taking place in the Pecos Valley. First, the Artesia Police Department says there are nearly ten registered sex offenders living within Artesia proper and they want citizens to know where they reside so trick-or-treaters can avoid them. Police Spokesman Sgt. Lindell Smith says people can go to the New Mexico Sex Offender website to find out more. Tomorrow night in Carlsbad, a Fall Festival and Art Show will take place at the Boys and Girls Club on Fox Street. (Flanigan) Out-the Art Show Time-:28 That is Eve Flanigan with the Carlsbad Anti-Drug and Gang Coalition. She says proceeds will go to support the Carlsbad Mural Project.


Cooler Weather Is Here

That change in the weather that we’ve talked about for the past few days has happened. Regional Skywarn Coordinator Wendell Malone says the artic front passed through and rain fell overnight in the Pecos Valley. He says the totals range from a quarter of an inch to three quarters of an inch. He adds that a rain and snow mix has fallen in Roswell. He also says that snow has been reported around Clovis and Portales and in the Sacramento Mountains. (Malone) Out-southeastern New Mexico Time-:20 Malone says he’s still tracking down rain and snowfall amounts and will have them posted later this morning at senmwx.com. The New Mexico Department of Transportation says US-285 at Vaughn is snowpacked and icy in all directions. They ask that you use caution. They say there are no problems with roads in the Pecos Valley. To the west of here, they’re reporting that US-82 around Cloudcroft is snowpacked and icy. While the roads around Mayhill are wet and slushy.


Carlsbad Council Tables Emergency Shelter

Geri Cunningham of the Carlsbad Transitional Housing and Homeless Shelter, Inc. spoke before the Carlsbad City Council last night during a public hearing. (Cunningham II) Out-emergency shelter Time-:24 While Cunningham and other members of the board were outlining their plans, some residents who live in the neighborhood expressed concerns about the proposed shelter. Once the discussion was done Councilor Dick Doss suggested that the permit be tabled until both sides could find some common ground. The Council agreed they will take action at a later date.


Artesia General Dealing With Obama Care

Obama Care may be the biggest lightning rod that has come out of Washington in the last few years. Those on the left say it provides healthcare coverage to those who can’t afford it and those on the right say it’s a Socialist practice. Then you have guys like Artesia General Hospital CEO Kenneth Randall who are in the Medical Combat Zone. Randall says states are now going to restrict the admission to hospital’s in the area of Medicaid. He says AGH took a significant cut in Medicaid and another decrease in government reimbursement is possible. (Randall II) Out-at today Time-:34 Randall spoke before the Artesia Special Hospital District Board of Directors’ during Monday night’s meeting.


WX Changes Almost Here

We’ve been talking about it for days and now it’s almost here. Regional Skywarn Coordinator Wendell Malone says some major changes are in store for our weather picture. He says an upper level storm system is headed this way along with an artic front. He says gusty winds later today will kick up the dust and showers and thunderstorms are possible tonight, he says the chances range from 60 to 80 percent. Malone says highs tomorrow should be in the 50’s and for Friday morning some places could see a freeze. Eddy County Extension Agent Woods Houghton says the most common date for the fall freeze is November 2nd. He says livestock owners shouldn’t be fooled by the warm weather he says its time to prepare for the fall freeze. What is the long range weather outlook? Regional Skywarn Coordinator Wendell Malone says the drought is expected to continue for sometime. (Malone II) Out-area Time-:30 Malone says he's received around three inches of rain at his house in Carlsbad.


NM lawmakers shake their heads at State Fair mistakes

More gloomy numbers for the New Mexico State Fair - attendance was down this year, and now it looks like last year's numbers were inflated. This comes after last week's revelation that the State Fair is awash in red ink, with only 39 cents in assets for every $1 it owes.


Hot Weather Forecast Today Across SENM

Regional Skywarn Coordinator Wendell Malone says the heat is expected to be back today. Highs should range from the upper 80’s to low 90’s. He says cooler weather is expected tomorrow thanks to an upper level storm system and artic cold front. (Malone) Out-light snow Time-:17 On Thursday, Malone says skies should be cloudy and highs should be in the 50’s.


AGH Gets Good News

There’s some good news for Artesia General Hospital. During last night’s Artesia Special Hospital District Board of Directors’ meeting, CEO Kenneth Randall told the board that the hospital has been accredited. (Randall) Out-with that Time-:29 Randall also says that the hospital is seeing an increasing number of visits of people from other places across the region.


Pearce Affirms Support For WIPP

Congressman Steve Pearce visited the WIPP Site near Carlsbad over the weekend. He attended an event recognizing WIPP’s 10-thousandth transuranic waste shipment milestone. The waste site has been in the news lately and most of it hasn’t been good. From layoffs due to money issues to a lobbyist that has divided the Eddy County Commission, a lot of people are trying to stop the bleeding due to the cash problems. Congressman Pearce fills us in on some of the work he’s doing. (Pearce II) Out-make sense Time-:32 He also says he has introduced legislation that would allow WIPP to take in more waste and extend its life for another five years.


LSC CROSS COUNTRY: Kenyan puts brakes on ACU's run

Eastern N.M. wins first-ever conference title
SAN ANGELO, Texas — It's a long way from the African country of Kenya to San Angelo, so 8 more kilometers didn't seem like much of a run for Eastern New Mexico's Isaiah Samoei to help his team make school history.


Changes In Store For Area Wx Picture

Regional Skywarn Coordinator Wendell Malone says a beautiful weekend took place across the region. He says more warmth is forecast for the early parts of the week as highs are in the upper 80’s to low 90’s through Wednesday. By midweek he says a major cool down is set. (Malone) Out-and Thursday morning Time-:10 On Thursday, Malone says highs should be in the 50’s and Friday highs should be in the 60’s. He also says that Friday could see the first freeze across the area. He says there’s a chance of rain in the lowlands during the forecast period and there’s a chance of snow in the Sacramento Mountains.


Park Tudor’s Spears commits to New Mexico

Troy Spears had talked with his parents about the possibility of committing to New Mexico while on his unofficial this weekend. He didn’t really believe it would happen until he saw it for himself.


spOILed Movie Coming To SENM

Here’s something that may shock you. Newsman turned filmmaker Mark Mathis calls Albuquerque home and he could be considered a major supporter of New Mexico’s oil and gas industry. While we here in southeast New Mexico know its importance to the economy, it could be said those living in the central population center have no clue about the industry. Mathis will be spending some time in Artesia and Roswell this week screening a movie he has made called spOILed. He says the movie asks people to stop and reconsider what they know about oil, the oil business and people’s relationship with petroleum. (Mathis) Out-human nature Time-:39 Mathis will be in Artesia tomorrow at the Ocotillo Theater. Film screenings will start at one in the afternoon with the last showing at seven that evening. There will be a Q-and-A session with Mathis following the seven-o-clock showing.


Protest assault suspect remains in jail

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - It was another night behind bars for a man accused of threatening to stab some of the Occupy Wall Street protestors in Albuquerque.


Artesia Mayor Weights In On Landlord Ordinance

Artesia Mayor Phil Burch has some thoughts on the proposed rental ordinance that was talked about earlier this week at City Hall. City officials got an earful from landlords and property owners. During the meeting, those in attendance were shown some properties that were very substandard. (Burch) Out-landlords out? Time-:25 After Tuesday's meeting, Planning Director Tina Torres told those in attendance that the proposal would go back to the drawing board.


EC Crimestoppers Looking For Info On Case

The Carlsbad Police Department and Eddy County Crimestoppers are asking for your help in solving a Criminal Damage To Property and Vandalism cases that have been reported for the past month at St. Edwards School in Carlsbad. Toward the end of September, a suspect or suspects entered the playground and damaged the equipment and damaged the fence next to the playground. Then during this past weekend, a fence post was pulled up, four feet of top rail was removed and a water faucet was broke causing the water to run all weekend. The total damage is estimated at 600 dollars. If you have any information you can contact the Crimestoppers hotline in Carlsbad at 887-1888. That number again is 887-1888.


FBI hopes social media helps solve New Mexico sex torture case, cites Whitey Bulger as example


ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — A gold medallion of an angel. A turquoise rosary. A leather bracelet engraved with “Linda.”


Purloined panties prompt NMSU police report

LAS CRUCES - Police are looking for a suspect who reportedly came into a woman's yard to steal panties. New Mexico State University Police responded to a Cole Village home on Espina Street Monday, where a woman reported the theft.


ECC Split On WIPP Lobbyist

Normally Eddy County Commissioners are united. When it comes to hiring a lobbyist for the WIPP Site, there appears to be a division. The Commission met Tuesday and while Jack Volpato and Roxanne Lara favor paying someone to go to bat for the county in Washington for the nuke waste site, Commissioners Lewis Derrick and Guy Lutman have other thoughts. (Lutman) Out-against it Time-:35 After spending nearly an hour discussing the issue, the commission directed Volpato and Lara to approach the City of Carlsbad to see if they would share the cost of a lobbyist. Commissioners also say they are looking for input from the public.


Big Federal Housing Grant For New Mexico

LAS CRUCES (krwg) - The Anthony, New Mexico, organization Tierra del Sol Corporation has received a federal grant of more than $700,000.


New Mexico's Peculiar Two-Horned Dinosaur

On Sunday, I drove two and a half hours to meet a dinosaur. My journey was part of a trend this year. As I have traveled around the west, from Montana to New Mexico, I have sought out dinosaurs that I have never seen before, and while at this year's National Association of Science Writers conference in Flagstaff, I found out that the Arizona Museum of Natural History in Mesa has a mount of a unique horned dinosaur called Zuniceratops. That was all I needed to know before getting on the southbound highway.


Val Kilmer Finally Sells New Mexico Ranch

After two whole years trying to unload his 6,000 acre New Mexico ranch, Val Kilmer is said to have finally sold almost all of it to Texas oil executive Benjamin A. Strickling III and his wife, Roxann.


NM Senate candidate dismantles campaign, giving opening to opponent

Greg Sowards, a Tea Party-affiliated self-funder who has played the spoiler role in New Mexico's GOP Senate primary, has fired all of his campaign staff and consultants and will go it alone.


FBI: Discovery of bones prompts further search of New Mexico lake as part of sex torture case


ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - The discovery of human bones at a New Mexico reservoir prompted authorities to resume their search Tuesday for possible victims of a man convicted a decade ago of sexually torturing women, the FBI said.


Educators watching state revenue forecasts

The state of New Mexico got a new revenue forecast Tuesday - and the University of New Mexico could feel the effects. The new revenue forecast released today shows New Mexico's financial outlook has weakened since the last predictions were made in July.


Oil, gas, mines give NM a boost

SANTA FE - Oil, gas and mining extraction grew by 44 percent in the last year, a bright spot in New Mexico's otherwise stagnant economy.


NM revenue outlook weakens for next budget year

New Mexico's financial outlook is weakening and there will be less money available for government programs and services in the upcoming budget year than previously expected, lawmakers were told Tuesday.


Artesia Police Busy

The Artesia Police Department reported a busy Tuesday. Last night after eight, several juveniles were arrested and charged with Criminal Trespass at 801 South Roselawn. Late yesterday morning, a pair of suspects was taken in at Tenth and Champ Clark. They were arrested on a slew of charges ranging from Resisting Arrest to Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Also late yesterday morning, a Battery Against A Household Member case was reported at 700 North Tenth. The department also reports that several warrants were served yesterday.


Artesia Landlords Don't Like Landlord Ordinance

It looks like the City of Artesia's plan for a Landlord Ordinance is done. The City Council Chambers were packed last night as landlords and property owners shared their thoughts on the proposal and many of them did not like it. The ordinance would've required an annual inspection of rental properities. A correction notice and reinspection. Artesia resident David Vandiver called the proposal quote, "An East German search," end of quote. (Vandiver) out-It out Time-:42 After those in the audience spoke their peace, City Councilors JB Smith, Manuel Barragan and Kent Bratcher gave their input. Once everyone was done talking, Planning Director Tina Torres said the idea will go back to the drawing board.


Carlsbad Asked To Show Support For WIPP

The Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce and the Carlsbad Department of Development are asking people to show up at Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park this evening at six for a reception. The Director of the CDOD, John Waters, says the National TRU-Waste Program Corporate Board is in the Cave City holding a series of meetings. He says the group is made up of those from the private sector and Department of Energy. (Waters) Out-operation Time-:33 The WIPP site has seen its share of layoffs in the past few months due to decreasing federal dollars. Waters says the CDOD is throwing its support behind the state’s congressional delegation to see an increase in federal cash.


Enrollment Goes Down Slightly In Hagerman

The Hagerman School Board was briefed on enrollment numbers during last night’s meeting. Supt. Steve Starkey says the 40 day numbers show the district is down two students from last year. He says there are 203 kids in the elementary school, 107 in the middle school and 126 in the high school. Starkey also says the board approved funding to complete nearly 20-thousand dollars in paving projects. He also says the board got an update on the FFA Barn, he says that will go out to bid in a couple of weeks.


MVD Director Resigns From Post


ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- After only eight months on the job, MVD Director Keith Perry has decided to resign from his post.


Railyard attracting crime, not business

Santa Fe police step up patrols
SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) - The Santa Fe Railyard which is supposed to be a prime site for business and economic growth, is experiencing some problems.


3.8 magnitude earthquake hits Northern N.M.

The U.S. Geological Survey is confirming that an earthquake happened at 10:38 a.m. Monday in Northern New Mexico.


NASA bookings boost hopes for Spaceport America

Invite-only event Monday to christen terminal-hangar
LAS CRUCES - NASA's recently announced plan to buy flights from two companies that will launch from Spaceport America gives the $209 million project a shot in the arm, as the facility preps for a ceremonial dedication of its largest building on Monday and the overall project inches closer to completion, supporters said last week.


Wanted fugitive John Pritchard found, arrested in New Mexico

AKRON, Ohio - Wanted fugitive John Pritchard was found and arrested in New Mexico in connection to the murder of his estranged girlfriend, Akron police said.


ECC To Meet

The Eddy County Commission will meet tomorrow morning in Carlsbad. The meeting will start at 8:30 and as always commissioners have a busy day ahead of them. They’re being asked to approve a Fixed Asset Inventory and Valuation Contract. (Derrick) Out-outside Time-:23 That is Eddy County Commissioner Lewis Derrick. Commissioners are also set to have lunch and tour the Eddy County Slammer.


Artesia To Host Meeting On "Landlord Ordinance"

It’s being called “The Landlord Ordinance,” Artesia Mayor Phil Burch says it’s a measure to cover rental properties. He says a public hearing will take place tomorrow night at seven at City Hall. He’s inviting landlords and renters to attend, he says the city wants input. This was talked about at last week’s City Council meeting. He says the city wants focus on safety for renters. (Burch) Out-the renters Time-:15 The mayor says homeowners have the option of not putting smoke alarms in their homes. He says it’s a different story with landlords, since the health and safety of the public are an issue.


Artesia Police Make Weekend Arrests

The Artesia Police Department was busy over the weekend. The department reported a couple of arrests yesterday. They occurred on Dallas Street. A warrant was served in the 900 block of West Dallas and yesterday afternoon a suspect was taken in on a slew of charges ranging from criminal damage to property to assault on a peace officer. Early Saturday morning, a battery against a household member case was reported at 309 South 20th.


Artesia United Way Drive Underway

There’s still time for you to help out with the 2012 North Eddy County United Way drive. A raffle for some Skybox tickets for next week’s Artesia-Goddard High football game is taking place. Campaign Chairman Ben Harvey says the drawing is set for next week. He also says a golf scramble will take place as well. Harvey has some more information this year’s drive. (Harvey II) Out-for us Time-:31 If you'd like to help out, you can call 575-308-2702.


Grass To Be Smoked From Artesia Baseball And Softball Fields

Some major work is coming to the Artesia School District. Supt. Mike Phipps says some H-VAC work is set for Artesia Jr. High and an addition will be coming to Grand Heights. The outgoing school boss also says the baseball field at Brainerd Park and the softball field at the Mack Chase Athletic Complex will be getting some turf. Even though the upfront cost may be a little high, he says the conversion will save money in the long run. (Phipps 4) Out-on target Time-:24 To convert the softball field, Phipps says it will cost around half-a-million dollars. The cost for Brainerd would be over a million.


Artesia Mayor Talks Trash

Artesia Mayor Phil Burch has some thoughts on a Public Hearing that was held Tuesday night before the Artesia City Council. The hearing dealt with garbage collection and disposal. (Burch) Out-a vote Time-:30 Mayor Burch says the issue will be looked at again next month.


Regents approve one-off bonus

The Board of Regents ruled Tuesday that employees making less than $50,000 per year will be eligible for a bonus.


New Mexico receives $13.8 million for stimulus efforts

The U.S. Department of Treasury awarded the state of New Mexico access to $13.8 million in federal funding that is projected to generate ten times that amount in state revenue.


Police: New Mexico woman arrested after putting ad on Craigslist to buy marijuana


ROSWELL, N.M. — A New Mexico woman faces charges after police say she put an ad on Craigslist looking to buy drugs.


Bingaman Talks About Proposal to Provide Millions for New Mexico Counties

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today talked with New Mexico radio reporters about a bill he has introduced that would extend the life of two initiatives that direct millions of dollars in payments to New Mexico counties to support local employment in schools, county maintenance programs, forest management, and other critical county programs. Bingaman's remarks can be followed:


Artesia School Boss Thanks Mentors

During Monday night’s Artesia School Board meeting, it was announced that an era would come to an end during the Spring of 2012. Supt. Mike Phipps has spent a good chunk of his life associated with the district. He announced he was stepping down as Supt. He has served the district as a teacher, coach, administrator and superintendent for more than 40 years. During his announcement, he thanked those who had mentored him along the way. (Phipps III) Out-great career Time-:36 Phipps will stay on through April.


ACC Meets

The Artesia City Council met last night and they spent a good portion of the meeting discussing various items. The council got an update from WH Pacific on an improvement plan for the airport. The council was told that an increase in planes could be expected over the next few years. The plan also calls for narrowing the runway and expanded hangar development. The council also held a couple of public hearings, the first dealt with Community Development Block Grants. Leann Thomas from Presbyterian Medical Services asked for some money to remodel their building, which is owned by the city. They are located across the street from Artesia General Hospital. The council will revisit the CDBG issue next month. The other public hearing dealt with garbage collection and disposal. One resident talked about replacing dumpsters with polycarts. The council decided to revisit this issue next month as well.


Was Tommy Petty Playing In Her Head?

The Roswell Police Department says an ad on Craig’s List has landed an Albuquerque woman in the Chaves County joint. Police Spokesman Officer Travis Holley says 29-year-old Ana-micka Dave was looking to buy a different kind of joint. Holley says the suspect posted the ad and later she bought some grass from an undercover cop. Holley says a sarge with the Street Crime Unit noticed the ad and the two started communicating. When a meeting place was arranged, the suspect was hauled away. She’s been charged with Criminal Solicitation.


New Mexico man gets prison for violating parole

ALAMOGORDO, N.M. (AP) — An Alamogordo man has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for violating his probation after failing to report to the adult probation office in Texas.


New NMSU Las Cruces Theatre To Be Named For Medoffs

LAS CRUCES (krwg) - When New Mexico State University's Center for the Arts opens in fall 2012, its theatre will have a familiar name to many in the Mesilla Valley. The NMSU Board of Regents voted Monday to name the theatre in honor of Mark and Stephanie Medoff.


Country Star Gives Free Overnight Concert At Train Station

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Country music superstar Martina McBride rolled into the Duke City on a whistle-stop tour just after 2 a.m. Tuesday.


New Mexico producer awarded Rural Development grant

New Mexico-based Rio Valley Biofuels has been awarded a total of $40,962 in grant funding from USDA Rural Development to support upgrades at the facility and help support the hire of new employees. According to Dean Belcher, Rio Valley Biofuels’ plant manager, the grant will be used to upgrade the facility’s chiller and vacuum pump. He estimates the funding will also help the company hire two new employees.


Tipster: Victims may be in concrete

David Parker Ray filled tires with concrete
ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - One man may know where some of David Parker Ray's victims are buried. A tipster, who doesn't want to be identified, has come forward after watching News 13's coverage of the new search for bodies.


Report from NMSU predicts low holiday sales

LAS CRUCES, N.M. (AP) - It could be more red than black this holiday season for retailers in New Mexico.


FBI Search New Mexico Lake for ‘Toy Box’ Killer’s 40 Victims

Authorities are searching a New Mexico lake for victims of alleged serial killer David Parker Ray who once boasted of killing as many as 40 women.


Artesia Mainstreet Program Active

Artesia Mainstreet Director Rebecca Prendergast spent some time in Tucumcari recently. They were discussing train activities in the Historic Route 66 community. They also talked about plans for New Mexico’s Centennial which is set for next year. She also says that Lightup Artesia is just around the corner. Going on right now, is Shop Artesia. (Prendergast) Out-of the year Time-:38 If you'd like more information on Artesia Mainstreet, go to artesiamainstreet.com.


Artesia School Boss Stepping Down

He's been with the Artesia School District since the days of Richard Nixon. He's now stepping down during the days of Barack Obama. Artesia School Supt. Mike Phipps announced his retirement during last night's Artesia School Board meeting. (Phipps) out-applause fades Time-:25 Phipps has been a teacher, coach, administrator and superintendent during his time in the district. He will stay on the job until April, after that he and his wife Kathy plan to go on a long vacation.


City Councils To Meet

The Artesia and Carlsbad City Councils will meet tomorrow night. The Carlsbad meeting will start at six and the Artesia meeting will start at seven. In Carlsbad, councilors will consider approving a filing with the New Mexico Community Development Block Grant Program application with the Department of Finance and Administration. The council will also consider a resolution that would approve the transfer of the cable franchise from US Cable to Baja Broadband. The Eddy County Commission has gave their blessing on the matter. Carlsbad councilors tabled the measure last month. In Artesia tomorrow night, the council will hear a couple of requests to use some city facilities. The council will also hold a couple of public hearings. They’ll also get an update on the final airport improvement plan presentation and Michael Bunt with the Greater Artesia Economic Development Corp will ask the council to allocate some funds for a strategy development contract with Lea Partners.


Artesia School Board Meets

The Artesia School Board is set to meet tonight at seven. The board has a busy night ahead of them as Asst. Supt. of Curriculum Dr. Critt Caton will present a report on the A through F Grading Status. He’ll also present a report on Class Sizes throughout the District. Operations Director Juan Saiz will ask the board to purchase a truck for the Maintenance Department and he’ll also ask the board to pave the south parking lot at the Bulldog Pit. Supt. Mike Phipps has plenty of items, that he’ll discuss including an addition to Grand Heights and he’ll ask the board to purchase some turf for the baseball and softball complexes.


Artesia Police Had Busy Weekend

The Artesia Police Department reported a busy weekend. The department reports that a series of warrants were served. The department also reports that some people were busted on some drug cases and an arrest was made for tampering with evidence along with aggravated burglary and larceny of a firearm. The department also reports that an arrest was made in a driving on a suspended or revoked license case.


Listeria Update – What You Can Do To Protect Yourself

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the recent multi-state outbreak of listera linked to cantaloupes is responsible for 21 deaths and nearly 100 illnesses. Some of those have been reported in New Mexico. Jensen Farms in Colorado issued a voluntary recall of its cantaloupes in mid-September, and more states were added in the past week.


New book gives snapshot of life in New Mexico

When retired photojournalist Rick Carver set out to publish a book about life in New Mexico, he wanted to provide a complete picture. That's why you'll see pictures from DWI check points, homeless shelters and the border patrol in "A Year or So in the Life of New Mexico," an oversized and glossy coffee-table book published this year by Fresco Fine Art Publications of Albuquerque. The book is subtitled "An Uncensored Look at Life in the Land of Enchantment."


FBI and New Mexico authorities plan search at reservoir in suspected serial killer case

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Authorities are preparing to search the rocky terrain of a southern New Mexico reservoir for remains of possible victims of a suspected serial killer who once boasted he was responsible for 40 victims, the FBI announced Friday.


Block Jr. actions put PRC under spotlight

SANTA FE — A day after pleading guilty to two felonies, state regulatory commissioner Jerome D. Block Jr. walked into the agency's headquarters wearing shorts, sneakers and a T-shirt.


N.M. governor vetoes redistricting plans

SANTA FE Gov. Susana Martinez on Friday vetoed three bills to redraw state political boundaries.


United Way Drive Underway In Artesia

The North Eddy County United Way drive is going on right now and there are several ways that you can help. Executive Director Laura Smith says you can watch the Artesia-Goddard football game from the sky boxes at the Bulldog Bowl on Oct. 21. She also says people can hit the links. (Smith) Out-of golf Time-:24 She adds that the fund drive is looking to raise 194-thousand dollars and it will go to help United Way’s 13 member agencies. You can call 308-2702 for more information.


EC And Artesia Swap Land

There’s still some unfinished business from Tuesday’s Eddy County Commission meeting in Carlsbad. Eddy County and the City of Artesia have a signed a Memorandum of Understanding to swap some land. The County plans to build a new sub-office across the street from the Pecos Diamond and the City will get some land that’s close to the downtown area. (Lutman II) Out-around there Time-:30 That is Eddy County Commissioner Guy Lutman.


Artesia Police Bust Two

The Artesia Police Department reports that two arrests were made earlier this morning. Reports show that Vanessa Chavarria and Brian Ybarra were taken in at First and Cannon. They were charged with interference with officers.


Artesia Police Busy At One Address

The Artesia Police Department spent a lot of time at 700 North Tenth yesterday. Three teenagers were busted at various times at that address and they were charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Criminal Trespass and Possession of Grass. The department also says a warrant was served yesterday at 501 South 20th.


ECC Says No To Real Estate Agent

The Eddy County Commission has turned down a request from a Carlsbad Real Estate Company to help find new digs for the Sheriff’s Department. The proposed agreement was submitted by County Manager Allen Sartin during Tuesday’s meeting. It would’ve enlisted the help of Dunagan Associates to assist in finding a new building for Sheriff Ernest Mendoza and his crew. In the past, Mendoza and other members of his department have said there’s no room in the Courthouse. Commissioners Lewis Derrick and Guy Lutman didn’t like the idea of hiring a real estate agent. (Lutman) Out-do it Time-:22 Had the deal been okayed, the County would've paid an hourly rate of 150 dollars per hour.


Feds Lift Bovine TB Restrictions In NM Counties


LAS CRUCES, N.M. -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture has lifted bovine tuberculosis restrictions in two eastern New Mexico counties, making the entire state bovine TB free.


Medical marijuana stolen at knifepoint

BCSO deputies arrest suspect
ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - Bernalillo County Sheriff's Deputies arrested a man they say held his friend at knifepoint, then stole his medical marijuana plants.


Group seeks public comment on trapping in NM

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - Conservationists are continuing with their push for New Mexico game officials to reconsider whether to allow animal trapping on public lands.


Childhood Poverty Among Hispanics Sets Record, Leads Nation

The Toll of the Great Recession
The spread of poverty across the United States that began at the onset of the Great Recession of 2007-2009 and accelerated last year hit one fast-growing demographic group especially hard: Latino children.


New Mexico is bucking the trend of slowing migration to the Sun Belt

According to a new study, migration from northern states to the Sun Belt has slowed in the past few years, putting a break on the population growth that has driven the region’s relatively strong economic performance.


USS New Mexico Sailors Participate in Navy Week Albuquerque

Groton, Conn (NNS) -- Three USS New Mexico (SSN 779) Sailors are participating in Albuquerque Navy Week, October 2-9.


Big New Mexico PV Project Nears Completion

Xcel Energy and Wells Fargo have announced the completion of three solar photovoltaic (PV) power plants near Carlsbad, N.M. The sites are the first three phases of a project that will ultimately consist of five solar plants with a total capacity of 53.5 megawatts (MW).


APNewsBreak: Obama to step up power line projects

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Obama administration moved Wednesday to speed up permitting and construction of seven proposed electric transmission lines in 12 states, saying the projects would create thousands of jobs and help modernize the nation's power grid.


University Of New Mexico Fraternity Finds Severed Goat Head On Porch

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- University of New Mexico police are trying to determine who left a severed goat head on the porch of a fraternity house.


Artesia Police Report Two Arrests

The Artesia Police Department reports that two arrests were made yesterday. Before five yesterday afternoon, a Nathan Hernandez was arrested in the 600 block of Runyan. He was charged with Possession Of Deadly Weapons, he also had a couple of warrants thrown at him. Last night an Arizona man was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery and Criminal Trespass. That took place at 700 North Tenth.


State Police Release More Info On Crash Near C-bad

The New Mexico State Police have released some more information on a traffic fatality that occurred late yesterday morning. Officers were called to an accident on State Road 360 near Carlsbad. They discovered a 2007 Chrysler Sebring with heavy damage on the east shoulder of the northbound lane. They also discovered a semi on the west shoulder of the southbound lane also with extremely heavy damage. The driver of the semi has been identified as Arlie Ledbetter, he had minor injuries. The occupants of the passenger car are from El Paso. One of them, Jose Luis Olivas-Castillo was pronounced dead at the scene. A couple of others were transported to Carlsbad Medical Center and another was flown to Lubbock. The investigation shows that the Sebring was traveling north at a high rate of speed. The driver lost control and crossed the center line and smacked into the semi. Officials say alcohol may have been a contributing factor. The investigation is still going on.


Rainfall Reported In SENM

The rainfall in our region hasn’t been much this year. However at this stage of the game, people will take what they can get. That’s been the case again during the nighttime hours. Regional Skywarn Coordinator Wendell Malone says an over an inch has fallen at a couple of spots in Ruidoso. He adds that some rain was also reported at the Roswell and Artesia Airports. (Malone) Out-severe weather Time-:22 Malone also says the rain that is falling around the region this morning will end at noon and highs should be in the 80’s.


Think NM Official Talks About Reforming PRC

A member of Think New Mexico is releasing some more information on their proposal to reform the Public Regulation Commission. The Santa Fe based Think Tank released their ideas on the PRC a few days ago. Fred Nathan says the report is titled “Rethinking The PRC” and he says the report recommends amending the constitution. (Nathan) Out-alone agency Time-:33 Nathan also says the PRC is a cross between A Bad Dream and the movie “Groundhog Day.”


Pearce Says Raising Taxes Wrong

Congressman Steve Pearce says President Obama is wrong when it comes to raising taxes on wealthy people to pay for his huge jobs program. The Congressman points to a recent meeting he had with an Artesia businessman. (Pearce) Out-more stagnate Time-:32 The Congressman spoke with us earlier today on a wide range of topics.


Intersection proving deadly


RIO RANCHO, NM (KRQE) - Drivers crashing through walls, trying to kill themselves and others, their cars ending up in residents' yards and homes.


Sepiches honored as Humanitarians of the Year

CARLSBAD — On Aug. 31, 2003, life changed forever for Dave and Jayann Sepich when their 22-year-old daughter, Katie, was brutally raped and murdered in Las Cruces.


Oil and gas group wants state 'pit rule' eased

The New Mexico Oil and Gas Association wants the state to substantially change its rule on how well drilling and production waste fluid are handled.


Redistricting attorneys OK'd for Legislature

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A team of private lawyers will defend the Democratic-controlled Legislature in a court fight over redistricting, state legislative leaders decided Monday despite objections from Republicans.


Moody’s, Fitch, S&P Must Face New Mexico Securities Lawsuit

Oct. 3 (Bloomberg) -- Moody’s Corp., Fitch Inc. and Standard & Poor’s must face claims in a lawsuit brought by investors in mortgage-backed securities that they violated New Mexico securities law.


Carlsbad Celebrates 100th Birthday...Early

New Mexico’s 100th Birthday is set for early next year. For a few moments on Saturday, some Carlsbad residents were transported to the year 1911 as New Mexico Territorial Gov. William Mills, Congressional Delegate At Large William Andrews and US President Teddy Roosevelt were part of a reenactment called “New Mexico On The Verge of Statehood.” Carlsbad resident Phil Tozier played the part of Andrews. Tozier also says Teddy Roosevelt was strong advocate of New Mexico statehood. The 100th Anniversary will take place on Jan. 6 of next year.


Oil And Gas Association Proposes Changes To Pit Rule

A Spokesman for the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association has released some more information on some proposed changes to the Pit Rule. Wally Drangmeister says the changes if approved would encourage additional drilling by allowing lined pits and on-site burials of drilling cuttings.(Drang) Out-the cuttings Time-:37 He also says the association is holding their annual meeting this week.


Housecleaning Takes Place In Carlsbad

Saturday was a literal and actual housecleaning in Carlsbad. Sylvia Schneider with the City of Carlsbad Solid Waste Department says Keep Carlsbad Beautiful, the Carlsbad Police and Fire Departments, the Carlsbad Anti-Drug and Gang Coalition and the Carlsbad Solid Waste Department put out an all out blitz on trash. She says the Police and Fire Departments and the Drug and Crime Coalition collected over 85 pounds of prescribed drugs and non-prescribed drugs. She also says her department saw hundreds of people dispose of household hazardous waste. (Scheider) Out-Lake Carlsbad Time-:22 She also says that volunteers from Rainbow Recycling and the LULAC Chapter participated as well.


Group Wants PRC Overhaul

A New Mexico think tank is proposing a makeover of the state Public Regulation Commission, which it says would streamline the scandal-ridden agency and reduce the likelihood of unethical behavior.


Officials: NM Hot-Air Balloon Festival Sets Record

Organizers of a New Mexico hot-air balloon festival say they've broken their own world record.


New WNMU President To Be Inaugurated Friday

SILVER CITY (krwg) - Dr. Joseph Shepard will be officially installed as the fifteenth president of Western New Mexico University on Friday, October 7.


Scientists study high altitude sickness in cattle

VALLES CALDERA NATIONAL PRESERVE, N.M. — The lush grass in northern New Mexico provides a strong lure for drought-stricken ranchers looking for a way to feed their animals. But grazing in the mountains brings a risk of bovine high altitude disease, a potentially fatal illness that costs the beef industry some $60 million a year.


Fun and games at the Southern New Mexico State Fair

The 44th Southern New Mexico State Fair continues from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. today. The carnival and midway will be open from 1 to 6 p.m. today. The fairgrounds are 12 miles west of Las Cruces on Interstate 10, exits 132 and 127. The cost is $10 for ages 13 and older, $8 for ages 7-11, free for ages 6 and younger. Info: (575) 524-8602, snmstatefair.com. To see more fair photos, visit www.lcsun-news.com and click on the Media Center.


Urban wildlife refuge planned near Albuquerque, New Mexico

Feds say new site will boost economy, help urban residents connect with nature
SUMMIT COUNTY — Working closely with local partners, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has the go-ahead to establish a new 570-acre wildlife refuge on the site of a former dairy farm just a few miles south of New Mexico’s largest metropolitan area


KOB Eyewitness News 4 reporter dies from complications following surgery

It is with great sorrow and sincere adoration that KOB Eyewitness News 4 has to report the loss of a valued member of our news team.


ACC Holds CDBG Hearing

The City of Artesia held their third Community Development Block Grant public hearing Tuesday night. Maria Perez lives on Paris Street, she suggested a sewer project in their neighborhood. City Clerk Aubrey Hobson says there’s a slight problem. He says the property is outside the city. There could be a joint project with Eddy County. (Hobson) Out-11th meeting Time-:25 In other action from Tuesday night, the Council approved closing a portion of 13th Street and part of Richardson Ave. in a couple of weeks for Art In The Park. It will take place at Morris Field. The longtime Arts Council function had been in Central Park, however city officials were concerned about safety, thus causing the move. The Council gave the okay to Art In The Park organizer Laura Stevens to place a sign at Central Park indicating the change of venue.


Cantaloupe outbreak is deadliest in a decade

WASHINGTON (AP) – Health officials say as many as 16 people have died from possible listeria illnesses traced to Colorado cantaloupes, the deadliest food outbreak in more than a decade.


Grand Island Fire Chief Resigns, Accepts Position in New Mexico

Grand Island, Neb. — City Administrator Mary Lou Brown announced Wednesday that Fire Chief Troy Hughes will be resigning in October after nearly 27 years of service. Hughes has accepted the fire chief position in Los Alamos, New Mexico.


New Mexico gets share of returns from film

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A government agency says New Mexico has received $394,000 for its share of earnings on a film that got an interest-free loan from the state.


New Mexico reopens archaeological sites

The prehistoric Native American archaeological sites that fill the heart of northern New Mexico's Bandelier National Monument have reopened to visitors, three months after the largest wildfire in the state's recorded history sent employees scrambling to save rare artefacts and irreplaceable artwork.


NM legislature sends food stamp bill to governor


SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - The Legislature has given final approval to a proposal to continue a food stamp supplement for needy New Mexicans who faced a cut in benefits.


Supreme Court may have to referee redistricting

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico's fight over redistricting has shifted to the courts, but the Supreme Court might have to step in to determine which judge will handle the assignment of drawing new boundaries of districts for elected offices.


Artesia Rodeo Boosters To Host Goat Roping

The Artesia High School Rodeo Team will be in action this weekend at the Horse Council Arena at the Fairgrounds. Chris Mauldin is one of many rodeo parents who help out with fundraising. He says traveling all corners of the state every weekend adds up. (Mauldin) Out-in the state Time-:39 To offset some of the travel costs, Mauldin says a Goat Roping Fundraiser will take place this Friday night during the rodeo.He can be reached at 513-8704.


Artesia Councilors Say No To Benefits

The Artesia City Council voted down a proposal last night to give themselves benefits like other city employees. The council also spent some time debating a measure to give the Municipal Judge a raise. After the debate the council took no action. Toward the end of the meeting, Councilor Jose Luis Aguilar wanted to bring back the issue. He was turned down. The council also gave the okay to block off a portion of 13th and Richardson near Morris Field for Art In The Park. It will take place in mid October.


Former Carlsbad Councilor Has New Undertaking

What’s former Carlsbad City Councilor Jeff Diamond up to these days? After an unsuccessful run for Mayor of Carlsbad last year, Diamond has still been in the public eye somewhat, he is an attorney. But he and his wife Evy are focusing their energy on the Shannon Shaw Memorial Cancer Fund, which operates out of the UNM Cancer Center. Shaw passed away a couple of years ago from melanoma he was a supervising petroleum engineer with the BLM. On Oct. 21 and 22 a series of events will take place in Carlsbad to help the Shannon Shaw Memorial Cancer Fund. (Diamond I) Out-going on Time-:30 The Conference will take place on Oct. 21, then on the 22nd, A team roping event will take place at the Eddy County Sheriff’s Posse Arena. Diamond says the No BS Cattle Company is in charge of the event.


Artesia Police Busy

The Artesia Police Department has been staying busy. Earlier this morning a battery case was reported in the 600 block of Washington. Last night, an arrest was made at 26th and Main. The suspect was charged with a multitude of crimes, ranging from battery against a household member to false imprisonment. A public affray was also reported yesterday and some warrants were served.


Artesia Police Busy

The Artesia Police Department has been staying busy. Earlier this morning a battery case was reported in the 600 block of Washington. Last night, an arrest was made at 26th and Main. The suspect was charged with a multitude of crimes, ranging from battery against a household member to false imprisonment. A public affray was also reported yesterday and some warrants were served.


C-bad Household Hazardous Waste Day This Weekend

Artesia Clean and Beautiful held their version of the Toss No Mas campaign last weekend. This weekend, it’s Carlsbad’s turn. Also this weekend, the City of Carlsbad and Eddy County will be hosting another Household Hazardous Waste Collection. That will start at eight Saturday morning at the Beach Parking lot. (Sylvia) Out-and animals Time-:38 That is Sylvia Schneider with the City of Carlsbad Solid Waste Department.


Xcel, SunEdison commission three PV plants totaling 32.3 MW in New Mexico

On September 22nd, 2011 Xcel Energy (Minneapolis Minnesota, U.S.) and SunEdison LLC (Beltsville, Maryland, U.S.) announced the commissioning of three solar photovoltaic (PV) plants totaling 32.3 MW in the U.S. state of New Mexico.


2 groups submit proposals for casino at state fairgrounds


ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Two groups are vying for a new multimillion-dollar casino on the state fairgrounds property in Albuquerque.


Eye on Research: Researcher to investigate monsoon phenomena

LAS CRUCES - As the monsoon season winds down in New Mexico, the NOAA National Climatic Data Center reports that, as of early September, 72 percent of the state was still experiencing extreme to exceptional drought conditions. Given that the monsoon season is typically when much of the state expects more than half of its annual precipitation, optimism about the end of the drought is in small supply. And while there are no wildfires currently burning in the state, New Mexico experienced its worst fire year on record.


Silent light appears to land while New Mexico campers watch

A group of eight campers in New Mexico's Gila Wilderness near Murdock's Hole on the Gila River report watching a bright light that silently descended to the tree top level and then apparently landed, according to September 25, 2011, testimony from the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) witness reporting database.


New Mexico has sizable chance to win waivers from No Child Left Behind

New Mexico received criticism and praise for its primary and secondary education system from U.S. Department of Education Secretary Arne Duncan following the Obama administration’s announcement states can submit waivers to opt out of No Child Left Behind (NCLB).


Special Session Wrap Up

New Mexico's Special Session adjourned on Saturday. Majority Leader Senator Michael Sanchez gives NMNN his thoughts.


ECC To Monitor Roads

The Eddy County Commission decided to take a look at maintenance on county roads after it was brought to their attention earlier this week that the increase in oil and gas production is having an affect on caliche roads. A consultant hired by the county told the commission on Tuesday that the road department is working hard, but they have to work smarter. (Derrick) Out-a while Time-:31 That was Eddy County Commissioner Lewis Derrick. The Commission gave the okay to create a Public Roads Committee.


Xcel Spokesman Says Solar Farm Will Help Company Meet RPS

A Spokesman for Xcel Energy says a new solar farm located south of Carlsbad will help the company continue to meet the state’s Renewable Energy Portfolio Standards. Wes Reeves says his company has been meeting it all along. (Reeves) Out-those goals Time-:30 Reeves and others from his company were in Carlsbad yesterday participating in a ribbon cutting at the Hopi Road Solar Farm. It is located near the Carlsbad Airport.


Bear Bolts Through Hardware Store In Raton


RATON, N.M. -- Raton residents came face-to-face with a bear while shopping at a hardware store recently, and the encounter was caught on surveillance video.


Dixon Apples go on sale Saturday

COCHITI LAKE, N.M. (KRQE) - Dixon Apple Farm has experienced its fair share of natural disasters this year, first there was a freeze, then fires and most recently flooding caused significant damage to the crop.


New Mexico's largest solar plant opens in Carlsbad

Carlsbad officials unveiled the largest solar power project in New Mexico on Thursday.


NM: Senate OKs fix for state contracting system

The Senate has unanimously approved a proposal to tighten a preference given to New Mexico businesses that bid on state government contracts.


How state lawmakers pump up pensions in ways you can't

Most workers must retire from their jobs before getting retirement benefits. But, at age 55, South Carolina state Sen. David Thomas used a one-sentence law that he and his colleagues passed in 2002 to let legislators receive a taxpayer-funded pension instead of a salary after serving for 30 years.


BREAKING NEWS: Gas Leak in Las Cruces

The New Mexico Department of Transportation with the City of Las Cruces would like to inform motorists that there is a gas link break at Wilson and Valley Drive, which has caused Valley Drive to be closed.


Competitiveness in Redistricting Proposals Being Questioned

Republicans say that Democrats are taking away competitiveness with their redistricting maps, taking advantage of their majority in the House and Senate. Representative Eliseo Alcon says that the constitutional duty of redistricting calls for representing every New Mexican fairly according to the census.


Democratic-Backed Redistricting Plan Moves Along in Special Session

Republican Sen. Carroll Leavell says that the democratic-backed map that made it through the Senate Judiciary Committee Tuesday is playing too much on politics.


Bingaman Talks About the President's Proposal for Economic Growth and Deficit Reduction

WASHINGTON – WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today talked with New Mexico radio reporters about the a variety of issues, including the President's deficit reduction proposal and jobs package. Bingaman's remarks can be retrieved and followed:


Hagerman Schools Keeping An Eye On Third Grade Bill

Many have been keeping an eye on the Special Legislative Session that has been going on in Santa Fe for a good portion of the month. Educators like Hagerman School Supt. Steve Starkey are keeping an eye on the Third Grade Retention Bill. Starkey says it takes parents out of the equation and puts in interventions that fall on the district. He says the Hagerman School Board favors kids being proficient at grade level. He says the district offers before and after school tutoring and summer school. (Starkey II) Out-this Spring Time-:24 The Hagerman School Board met Monday night.


ECC Approves Redistricting

While the New Mexico Legislature continues to deal with redistricting during their Special Session, it’s a done deal for the Eddy County Commission. The Commission spent some time looking at proposals to redraw the five districts. A plan was approved yesterday. (Derrick) Out-at it Time-:34 That was Eddy County Commissioner Lewis Derrick. He appeared earlier today on AM-990 KSVP. The complete interview can be found in the podcast section at kz93.com. In other news from yesterday’s meeting-The Commission approved a resolution requesting the transfer of the US Cable franchise to Baja Broadband. According to the paperwork, Baja entered into an asset purchase agreement last month with US Cable. The sale agreement is expected to be finalized later this year. The Carlsbad City Council is expected to deal with the same resolution next week.


Paradise Valley doctor, son die in New Mexico plane crash

A Paradise Valley doctor and his son have been reported dead in a New Mexico plane crash.


New Mexico lawmakers want changes in EIB hearings

Republican lawmakers are asking New Mexico regulators to hold more hearings outside of Santa Fe when they begin considering the fate of the state's greenhouse gas emissions rules.


New Mexico panel votes to lay off 27 state workers

The New Mexico State Personnel Board voted Tuesday to cut 27 state jobs, including 33 percent of the state fair workforce and 40 percent of the staff at the Tourism Department's New Mexico Magazine.


Block on the block still

Investigation moves forward on Public Regulation Commissioner
SANTA FE Subpoenas may be issued this week in the investigation of Public Regulation Commissioner Jerome D. Block Jr.


'New Mexico Magazine' chops staff

State publication, Expo are cost-cutting victims
New Mexico Magazine, the nation's oldest state magazine, is known for promoting the Land of Enchantment's dramatic skies. On Tuesday, dark clouds rained over the magazine's Santa Fe offices, as seven of its 17 staff members learned they're out of work.


Senate Passes Proposals for PRC and Congressional Districts

The Senate passed maps for both the Public Regulations Commission and Congressional districts on Monday.


Hagerman School Board Meets

The Hagerman School Board met last night. Supt. Steve Starkey says they covered a lot of ground. He says enrollment figures were released and the number of kids attending the Middle and High School in Hagerman is flat, while the Elementary numbers have dropped. Starkey also says its Homecoming week in Bobcat land and the board also got a facility update. (Starkey) Out-contracts back Time-:29 You can hear more from Starkey by going to the podcast section at ksvpradio-dot-com.


Marita Noon Says Eddy And Chaves Could Learn From Otero

Marita Noon the Executive Director of Energy Makes America Great has been spending a good chunk of this year in our region. She has been one of the leading drivers against a proposal to list the Sand Dune Lizard as an Endangered Species here in Southeast New Mexico. She points to Saturday’s tree cutting rally in Cloudcroft that shows citizens are ready to take back their lives from the feds. She says the actions of those in Otero County, should now make its way to Eddy and Chaves counties when it comes to the lizard. (Noon II) Out-own hands Time-:18 She adds that the actions from DC are resulting in severe economic and social impacts across the land.


S.N.A.P and Medicaid Funding Passes Through a Bipartisan House

Lawmakers in the House approved legislation over the weekend to restore the state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and for Medicaid expenses.


Senator Says 'No Compromise Coming From Fourth Floor'

Senator John Sapien says that Governor Martinez leaves little room for compromise on many bills.


Lawmakers Agree Capital Outlay Must Get Done In Special Session

Many lawmakers agree that the $200 million dollar Capital Outlay bill will and needs to get done during the Special Session, Senator Greg Ortiz y Pino says why.


Unemployment Fund Fix, Cut To Take-Home Pay Could Be Extended

Gov. Martinez is proposing to fix the state's unemployment fund by extending a temporary decrease in take-home pay for state workers and teachers.


Slow Start at One Week Mark for New Mexico State Legislature

Lawmakers are now at the one week mark and It seems more finger pointing rather then work is happening in the Roundhouse.


High-Wage Jobs Credit Debate Heats Up

The high-wage jobs credit, which was vetoed by Gov. Martinez in the regular session is making an appearance at the special session. Sen.Ortiz y Pino and many other lawmakers are against giving businesses like Hewlett Packard a tax break.


Governor Martinez Seeks to Consolidate Multiple State Agencies

Gov. Martinez wants to save the state money by consolidating six state agencies. However, many are opposed to the idea.


Debate Over Driver's Licenses for Illegal Immigrants Continues

The debate of driver's licenses for illegal immigrants continued this week in Santa Fe. Protestors that oppose the repeal stormed the Capitol, as Tea Party members stood in support of Gov. Martinez.


Subcommittee to Oversee Block's Impeachment

Rep. Ray Begaye tells NMNN that Public Regulation Commissioner Jerome Block Jr.should resign before causing anymore trouble for himself.


Special Session Start-Up

The New Mexico State Legislature opened their 2011 special session Tuesday. Democrat Representative Brian Egolf explains that this session's priority should be redistricting.