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Open-Government Group Names New Director, President

Statewide non-profit focuses on education, advocacy
The fight for transparent government in New Mexico has a new general. The Board of Directors of the New Mexico Foundation for Open Government announced today the appointment of its next Executive Director, Gwyneth Doland. Doland, a journalist and longtime Albuquerque resident, will take the helm of the statewide non-profit organization Feb. 20.

Press Release


 State of New Mexico - Office of the Governor   New Mexico Department of Transportation     New Mexico Department of Health and Human Services   New Mexico Department of Tourism

Open-Government Group Names New Director, President

Statewide non-profit focuses on education, advocacy
The fight for transparent government in New Mexico has a new general. The Board of Directors of the New Mexico Foundation for Open Government announced today the appointment of its next Executive Director, Gwyneth Doland. Doland, a journalist and longtime Albuquerque resident, will take the helm of the statewide non-profit organization Feb. 20.


Wanted: Double Murder Suspect - REWARD INCREASED

On Monday January 23, 2012 at approximately 1:00 pm Santa Fe County Regional Emergency Communications Center received a call of a shooting that occurred at a residence located off of Paseo Galisteo in Santa Fe County. Upon arrival of the deputies, they discovered that a 16 year old male identified as Austin Urban was found dead from an apparent gunshot wound. A woman identified as Theresa Vigil 51 years old had been transported to Christus St. Vincent’s Hospital where she was being treated for a gunshot wound to the head. She later succumbed to her injuries.


2012 Special PRC Audit Gets Thorough Review

SANTA FE—Members of the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) today received a copy of a “special audit” ordered by the Office of the State Auditor following a review of the agency’s annual financial report in December.


Lyons to Balderas:The finger should be pointed in the other direction following audit

SANTA FE—After careful review of a “special audit” released today by State Auditor, Hector Balderas, PRC Chairman, Patrick Lyons, is pointing to inconsistencies in the report and calling for an investigation into why Balderas didn’t immediately disclose information concerning Jerome Block’s illegal activity at the PRC after finding out about it nearly a year in advance of turning it over to authorities.


January 28th, 2012 is International Data Privacy Day

AG King Shares Tips to Safeguard Personal Info
(ALBUQUERQUE)---Attorney General Gary King is proud to support the initiative to protect personal data on Data Privacy Day.


Free Tax Help Available at SFCC

January 27 to April 16 at SFCC Witter Fitness Center
SANTA FE, NM – For the seventh year, the Santa Fe Community College will host a free income tax preparation service in partnership with the AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide.


Secretary Chu In New Mexico Touting Solyndra Redux

Rubber-Stamp Liberal Martin Heinrich Riding Shotgun
ALBUQUERQUE, NM - Republican Party of New Mexico Chairman Monty Newman issued the following statement regarding the Secretary of Energy's campaign stop in New Mexico today:


Land Commissioner’s Gallery Presents Diana Stetson Exhibit “Rain” in February

(Santa Fe, New Mexico) – The Commissioner’s Gallery opens the exhibit “Rain” from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Feb. 3, featuring paintings and prints by local artist Diana Stetson that were created on behalf of the environment.


SENATE SCHEDULE OF COMMITTEE HEARINGS

Hearings for the following committes are schedule: Finance, Conservation, Indian and Cultural Affairs, Public Affaris and Rules.


Driver's license law needs to be strengthened

SANTA FE-- The Democratic Caucus of the New Mexico State Senate released the following statement on the drivers licenses for foreign nationals law.


House Memorial Celebrates NM’s Rich Diversity

Lauds Long History of Cultural and Racial Diversity & Cooperation
SANTA FE, NM – Members of the New Mexico House Republican Caucus issued the following statement on House Memorial 29, celebrating New Mexico’s long history of cultural and racial diversity and cooperation.


Unearthed Victim’s Family to Attend Hearing on No More Time Limits to Prosecute Homicides

Santa Fe –The mother and two sisters of Michael Snyder, the man whose wife was convicted recently for his death back in 2002 after his remains were unearthed outside his Albuquerque home in 2010, will attend the first Senate committee hearing of a bill to remove the statute of limitations for certain crimes that take someone’s life.


GOVERNOR, LOCAL SMALL BUSINESSES, AND STATE BUSINESS LEADERS URGE LEGISLATURE TO CURB TAX PYRAMIDING

Measure Will Remove Double and Triple Taxation on Construction Sector, Make New Mexico More Competitive
SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez was joined by about two dozen state business leaders and New Mexico small business owners today to urge the passage of tax reform legislation that would curb the practice of “pyramiding” in the state’s construction industry.


Santa Fe County Needs Citizens to Serve on the County Open Land, Trails, and Parks Advisory Committee (COLTPAC)

Santa Fe, NM – January 25, 2012 - Santa Fe County has an opening for a citizen to serve on the County Open Land, Trails, and Parks Advisory Committee (COLTPAC).


EPA Orders Albuquerque Racetrack to Stop Discharges to Protect Rio Grande

(DALLAS – January 25, 2012) The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued an order to halt discharges of animal waste, industrial run-off and other pollutants into the Rio Grande. The action was taken against the Downs at Albuquerque Inc. and EXPO New Mexico, a 93-acre race track and casino in Albuquerque, New Mexico, that accommodates almost 1,400 horses during racing season.


Make it the Law not a whim to put public salaries on website

Santa Fe – State Senator Sander Rue of Albuquerque said more state government employee names and salaries will be on New Mexico’s Sunshine Portal, and the requirement to put the information on the state’s website would be in state law and would not be at the whim of future governors, if his bill to expand the definition of “state agency” in the Sunshine Portal is passed.


Governor, Small Business Owners to Urge End to Tax Pyramiding

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will be joined by a number of local small business owners and state business leaders from around New Mexico at a press conference later today to urge the legislature to curb the practice of double and triple taxation known as “pyramiding” on the state’s construction industry.


NEW MEXICO ARMY NATIONAL GUARDSMEN DEPLOYING TO SINAI, EGYPT

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The New Mexico National Guard will host Yellow Ribbon ceremonies to bid farewell to 1st Battalion, 200th Infantry Division, which will deploy approximately 400 Guardsmen to Sinai, Egypt in support of the Multi-Force Observer mission.


Senate Committees/Calendar 1-25

Senate Floor Session starts at 10:30.. more bill introductions (we’re over 200 now), One bill you may want to watch is in Senate Corporations Committee at 2PM Room 311.. SB16 (Keller/Smith) is meant to generate jobs quickly by providing tax breaks for businesses that hire New Mexico College Grads in specific areas like Science, Technology and Math.


PEARCE: AMERICANS NEED SOLUTIONS—NOT EMPTY PROMISES

President’s State of the Union Address Shrugs Responsibility, Sets America up for Further Failed Policies
Washington, DC (January 24, 2012) Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement in response to the President’s State of the Union address:


State Police Sobriety Checkpoint

Chaves County — State Police will be conducting a Sobriety Checkpoint on Friday, January 27, 2012, in Chaves County.


Missing Person Advisory

Lincoln County – On behalf of the Ruidoso Downs Police Department please note that the following person is considered a Missing Person.


Meth Awareness and Prevention Train-the-Trainer in Belen tomorrow

Attorney General Gary King's Methamphetamine Awareness and Prevention "Train-the-Trainer" Initiative will be in Belen TOMORROW training volunteers to take the AG's presentation into their communities to combat Meth use and abuse. The training will be held Calvary Chapel Rio Grande Valley, 19381 Highway 314 in Belen from 10 AM-12 NOON.


The New Mexico Film Office Congratulates New Mexico Productions Nominated for the 64th Annual Directors Guild of America (DGA) Awards

SANTA FE —New Mexico Film Office director Nick Maniatis announced today three New Mexico based productions have been nominated for Outstanding Directorial Achievement for the year 2011:


Lyons; Insurance Division Push Reform for Processing Special Needs Claims

Disabled Hobbs man’s battle with out-of-state insurance company prompts DOI action
SANTA FE—The state Division of Insurance (DOI) is helping a disabled Hobbs man get back on the road after an out-of-state insurer said it wouldn’t pay to fully replace his three-wheeled bicycle damaged in a car wreck by one of its policyholders.


New Mexico House Republicans Unveil Centennial Plan

Plan Outlines Initiatives to Empower Job Creators, Improve Education
Tuesday morning, all 33 New Mexico House Republicans met on the House floor to sign the Centennial Plan.


GOVERNOR, CYFD, AND STATE LEGISLATORS PUSH TOUGHER CHILD ABUSE PENALTIES

SANTA FE – Today, Governor Susana Martinez announced a major legislative proposal that will change New Mexico’s Criminal Code to help better protect New Mexico children from child abuse and predators. Her bi-partisan bill beefs up prison time for child abusers, increases penalties for drunk drivers who kill kids, and defines new crimes where certain behavior toward children is predatory.


State Police Sobriety Checkpoint

Santa Fe — State Police will be conducting a Sobriety Checkpoint on Friday, January 27, 2012, in Santa Fe County.


NEW MEXICO FISHING REPORT

This fishing report, provided by the Department of Game and Fish, has been generated from the best information available from area officers, anglers, guides and local businesses. Conditions may vary as stream, lake and weather conditions alter fish and angler activities.


Wanted: Double Murder Suspect

On Monday January 23, 2012 at approximately 1:00 pm Santa Fe County Regional Emergency Communications Center received a call of a shooting that occurred at a residence located off of Paseo Galisteo in Santa Fe County.


MEDIA ADVISORY: Centennial Plan Press Conference

SANTA FE, NM — The New Mexico House Republican Caucus will hold a press conference at 10:30 am on Tuesday, January 24 to unveil and discuss House Republican’s Centennial Plan for New Mexico.


PRC Commissioner Howe to Host Meeting on Renewable Energy in Santa Fe

SANTA FE—New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) member, Douglas J. Howe, will host a public meeting Wednesday, Jan. 25 in Santa Fe to discuss renewable energy development in New Mexico.


Two Companies Receive Job Training Incentive Program Funds to Hire New Workers

SANTA FE - The Job Training Incentive Program (JTIP) board approved $280,452 in funds during its January meeting to help create 21 new jobs in New Mexico with an average wage of nearly $30 an hour.


Graphic Exhibit, Harsh Lessons – A Focus on Future Peace

In the harshest of conditions, millions of human beings were transported by cattle cars to concentration and death camps during WWII.


Udall Statement on Speaker Luján

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall issued the following statement today after attending the opening session of the New Mexico Legislature:


Many Republican Senators Won’t Attend Biased Forum Tonight

News Availability: Today, Monday, January 23, 2012, 3:00 p.m. Room 109- Senate Republican Leadership Office
A number of Republican Senators are not going to the scheduled panel discussion on Voter ID that the League of Women Voters is sponsoring tonight.


Senate Announces Jobs Initiative

11 bills add incentives for a broad range of businesses
SANTA FE--The Senate Majority Caucus released the Helping Incentivize Real Employment (HIRE) Initiative, a collection of eleven bills that will help a broad range of small businesses in New Mexico revitalize the economy. This plan will take big steps to create jobs across New Mexico.


Attorney General`s Office Puts Bill Analyses Online

Public Access to 2012 Legislation Analysis
(SANTA FE)---As part of an ongoing project to make public data electronically accessible, Attorney General Gary King's office today announced the service that allows public access to legislation analyses performed by the AG's office is available again this year.


ENTRIES SOUGHT FOR PRAIRIE CHICKEN FESTIVAL POSTER CONTEST

MILNESAND – Artists of all ages are invited to try their hand at depicting one of New Mexico’s most colorful game birds as a participant in this year’s High Plains Prairie Chicken Festival poster contest.


PRC Commissioner Howe to Host Meeting on Renewable Energy in Santa Fe

SANTA FE—New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) member, Douglas J. Howe, will host a public meeting Wednesday, Jan. 25 in Santa Fe to discuss renewable energy development in New Mexico.


Missing Endangered Person Advisory

Lincoln County – On behalf of the Ruidoso Police Department please note that the following person is considered a Missing Endangered Person.


NM Medicaid Issues $11.7 Million in Electronic Health Records (EHR) Incentive Program Payments

Successful Response to Technology Aimed at Improving Patient Care
Santa Fe, NM – Healthcare providers across the state are finding something extra in their bank accounts as the New Mexico Medicaid Electronic Health Records (EHR) Incentive Program began issuing incentive payments to individual practitioners and hospitals that successfully attested to the adoption, implementation or upgrade (AIU) of certified EHR technology. With the goal of improving the quality of patient care, hospitals and health care professionals will use the technology to collect data and meet meaningful use objectives and clinical measures established by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE CELEBRATES SANCTITY OF LIFE

Supports March for Life
Washington, DC (January 23, 2012) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement in support of the March for Life:


Governor to Speak at 'Creating Jobs, Getting New Mexico Working Again' Luncheon Tomorrow in Albuquerque

SANTA FE – Tomorrow, Governor Susana Martinez will address the ‘Creating Jobs, Getting New Mexico Working Again’ luncheon hosted by the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce along with Albuquerque Economic Development, the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce, the Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance, the Economic Forum of Albuquerque, the Greater Belen Chamber of Commerce, NAIOP, and the Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce. Governor Martinez will address members of the business community from Bernalillo, Sandoval, and Valencia Counties to discuss her job creation proposals for the current legislative session.


GOVERNOR, STATE LEGISLATORS URGE PASSAGE OF ANTI-CORRUPTION MEASURES

Proposals Will Protect Taxpayers, Increase Penalties for Corrupt Behavior
ALBUQUERQUE – Governor Susana Martinez held a press conference today at the Metropolitan Courthouse in Albuquerque to urge legislators to pass four important anti-corruption measures during this year’s legislative session. During her State of the State address, the Governor announced her support for four specific measures that will protect taxpayers and increase penalties for public officials who are convicted of corrupt behavior. Governor Martinez was joined today by Sen. John Ryan (R-Albuquerque), Rep. Al Park (D-Albuquerque), Rep. Nate Gentry (R-Albuquerque), and Rep. Zachary Cook (R-Ruidoso).


Governor, Legislators Will Hold a Press Conference Urging the Passage of Significant Anti-Corruption Legislation

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will hold a press conference on Sunday, January 22 to urge the legislature to support important proposals that would protect taxpayers and dramatically increase penalties for public officials who are convicted of corruption.


Voter Verification: Facts and Fallacies

Is Photo ID Essential?
The League of Women Voters of New Mexico is holding a Legislative reception at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 23. The reception includes a panel discussion on voter photo ID.


Re: Rio Rancho Wanted Man Arrested

New Mexico Corrections Department’s Security Threat Intelligence Unit, along with other law enforcement agencies helped in the capture of Moses Sparks. 26-year-old Sparks was arrested Thursday in Mullins, South Carolina, by U.S. Marshals. Sparks was found in an abandoned trailer. He attempted to run away but was caught.


THE SCHOOL OF ARTS AND DESIGN SCULPTURE SHOWCASE

Hi-Resolution images on request
SANTA FE, NM – Santa Fe Community College’s Visual Arts Gallery presents a showcase exhibition by the School of Arts and Design’s sculpture faculty, students and alumni. Work from faculty artists, their students and program alumni will be on display in the gallery and exhibition areas in the School of Arts and Design. The public opening reception for the exhibit is on Thursday, February 9 from 5 to 7 p.m. in the gallery and runs through March 8, 2012.


AMERICAN RED CROSS IN NEW MEXICO RELOCATING ITS ALBUQUERQUE HEADQUARTERS

MEDIA ADVISORY: A news conference is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 24, at 11:00 AM at the new facility, 7445 Pan American Freeway N.E. Members of the Red Cross executive staff, board of directors and community partners will speak during the news conference.


Annual Rag Rug Festival & Gift Show Returns to Las Cruces

LAS CRUCES, NM - From the stunning patterns of handmade textiles to the subtle beauty of traditionally woven basketry, New Mexico Women's Foundation's Rag Rug Festival showcases the highest quality work of nearly 100 New Mexican women artisans. The Festival & Gift Show will be held March 3 and 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum in Las Cruces.


SENATE SCHEDULE OF COMMITTEE HEARINGS

Schedule for Monday, January 23, 2012


The New Mexico Film Office Announces Fifth Season of “In Plain Sight” Filming in New Mexico

SANTA FE —New Mexico Film Office director Nick Maniatis announced today that the USA Network original series, “In Plain Sight,” starring Mary McCormack is filming its fifth and final season in New Mexico. Produced by Universal Cable Productions, the television drama will premiere on USA Network on Friday, March 16th at 10/9c.


DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SECRETARY MICHAEL DUVALL TO JOIN LANL SITE OFFICE AS KEY SECURITY AND SAFETY OFFICIAL

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management Secretary Michael Duvall has accepted a position with the National Nuclear Security Administration as Assistant Manager for Safeguards and Security at the Los Alamos National Laboratory Site Office.


League Day at the Legislature

The 2012 New Mexico Legislative Session will deal with many pieces of legislation that have been prioritized by the League of Women Voters.


Sen. Bernadette Sanchez introduces legislation on drug abuse

A comprehensive package of emergency legislation that will address the state's crisis of drug addiction and overdose has been introduced in the New Mexico State Senate by Sen. Bernadette Sanchez (D-Bernalillo).


SFCC PRESENTS THE SCHOOL OF ARTS AND DESIGN SCULPTURE SHOWCASE

FEBRUARY 9–MARCH 8, 2012
Public Opening Feb. 9, 5-7; Gallery Talk Feb. 14, 11:30

SANTA FE, NM – Santa Fe Community College’s Visual Arts Gallery presents a showcase exhibition by the School of Arts and Design’s sculpture faculty, students and alumni. Work from faculty artists, their students and program alumni will be on display in the gallery and exhibition areas in the School of Arts and Design. The public opening reception for the exhibit is on Thursday, February 9 from 5 to 7 p.m. in the gallery and runs through March 8, 2012. In conjunction with the sculpture exhibition, SFCC sculpture faculty will present a gallery talk on their work Tuesday, February 14 from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. in the Fine Arts Building, Room 701.


PEARCE WORKING TO ENSURE SECURE BORDERS

Border Patrol Announces Forward Operating Base Location
Animas, NM (January 20, 2012) Today, the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol announced that El Paso Sector Chief Patrol Agent Scott A. Luck has selected a site for the Forward Operating Base near Animas, New Mexico. Congressman Pearce issued the following statement in response:


OPERATION US 550

The New Year has brought new challenges for the New Mexico State Police in San Juan County. We are teaming up with the Navajo Police Department, San Juan County Sheriff’s Office and Special Investigations Division to address the forgoing issues that seemed to have escalated on the US 550 corridor from Bloomfield to Cuba in recent months.


GOVERNOR CONCLUDES ECONOMIC CONFERENCE WITH MEXICAN GOVERNORS

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez met today with governors and representatives from five Mexican states in an organized effort to discuss projects and initiatives that would be mutually beneficial to economic development efforts on both sides of the border.


Senator Eric Griego Sponsors Campaign Finance and Ethics Reform Package

Santa Fe, NM -- State Senator Eric Griego today announced a package of campaiogn finance and ethics reform bills he is sponsoring in the 2012 New Mexico legislative session, including: public financing for all state public offices; an independent ethics commission to overssee state elected officials; a ban on state contractors contributing to campaigns; and a Joint Memorial supporting a proposed federal constitutional amendment to overturn the Supreme Court's Citizens United decision allowing unlimited corporate spending in campaigns.


Update: Inmate transported to El Paso hospital

Inmate Eric Sanchez from the Southern New Mexico Correctional Facility is now recovering at the long treatment unit at the Central New Mexico Correctional Facility in Los Lunas.


To Catch a Metal Thief

SB 67 Secondhand Metal Dealer Requirements
Senator Stephen Neville
Soundbite and Quote on : NewMexicoRepublicanSenatorsblogspot.com

Santa Fe – To catch a thief could become easier with a bill sponsored by Senate Republican Caucus Chair Steve Neville of San Juan. We are not talking diamonds thieves, but thieves who steal manhole covers and copper wire.


MEDIA ADVISORY-HUMAN TRAFFICKING GUILTY PLEA & SENTENCING

Human Trafficking offender Kendel Morrell, 22, pled guilty today to:


Missing Person Advisory

Rio Arriba County – On behalf of the Espanola Police Department please note that the following child is considered a Missing Endangered Person.


AG Opinion: Tax Amnesty Unconstitutional

Violates Anti-Donation Clause
(ALBUQUERQUE)---Regarding gross receipts tax amnesty, New Mexico Attorney General Gary King's first Opinion of 2012 addresses possible violation to the Anti-donation Clause as written in the State of New Mexico Constitution.


Joint Law Enforcement Efforts to Patrol US 550

Santa Fe — New Mexico State Police in conjunction with the Navajo Nation, San Juan Sheriff’s Department and DPS Special Investigations Division have agreed to conduct joint efforts in patrolling US 550.


Rep. Nate Gentry and Sen. George Munoz Introduce Anti-Corruption Bill

Unanimously-Passed Bill Should Be Quickly Considered
Santa Fe – Today Representative Gentry (R-30) and Senator George Munoz (D-4) introduced anti-corruption legislation that increases possible jail time for public servants who engage in corruption; bars persons convicted of public corruption from lobbying and entering into state contracts; and provides for the forfeiture of public pension benefits for corrupt officials (HB111).


Feldman Constituents Favor Fireworks Ban, Independent Redistricting Commission, Use of Budget Surplus to Restore Funding for State Programs, not new Tax Cuts

87% want to change PRC, 94% want to close tax loopholes, 59% oppose voter ID, 57% oppose Gov's plan for Drivers Licenses
SANTA FE—Sen. Dede Feldman (D-Bernalillo) today released the results of her annual constituent survey, which was sent in late December to 5,000 of her voting constituents and emailed to almost 2,000. Feldman represents District 13, which covers the near North Valley of Albuquerque, including Old Town and parts of the West Side and near-Heights.


No More Time Limits to Prosecute Homicides

SB 37 No Time Limit to Prosecute Certain Crimes
Senator Bill Payne

Santa Fe –New Mexico Senate Republican Whip Bill Payne is sponsoring a bill to remove the statutes of limitation for certain crimes that take someone’s life.


Governor to Host Economic Conference with Mexican Governors

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will host an economic conference with governors from northern and central Mexico at Buffalo Thunder in Santa Fe. As part of her commitment to working with her Mexican counterparts to make New Mexico a major trade route between the United States and Mexico, Governor Martinez will meet with governors and representatives from the states of Chihuahua, Durango, Sinaloa, Zacatecas, and Nayarit tomorrow, January 20.


PEARCE: KEYSTONE KOP KILLS PIPELINE

President’s Comedy of Errors Destroys Thousands More Jobs
Washington, DC (January 19, 2012) President Obama has blamed congressional Republicans for his administration’s decision to reject the construction permit for the Keystone XL Pipeline. He blamed Republicans for actions he took. This is ludicrous.


SENATE SCHEDULE OF COMMITTEE HEARINGS

Senate Floor Session Starts at 10:30
There are several memorials already on President’s Desk..
Some 80 bills have been introduced..
Committees Follows.. the biggie today is the confirmation process going through room 322… at 1:30


NM House Dems Vote To Waste Taxpayer Dollars, Sue New Mexico

ALBUQUERQUE – Wednesday -- on a party line vote -- New Mexico House Democrats voted to frivolously waste taxpayer dollars by allocating funds for the state of New Mexico’s use to sue itself over the House redistricting map approved by Democrat Judge James Hall.


Minority Interests Disenfranchised By Taxpayer Funded House Appeal

SANTA FE, NM – New Mexico House Democrats voted today to spend additional taxpayer dollars to permit the state House to sue the state of New Mexico over the House redistricting map approved by Judge Hall.


New Mexico Corrections Department Training Academy Director Appointment

“I am proud to announce the appointment of Mr. Mark Myers as the New Mexico Corrections Department Training Academy Director. The depth and breadth of his public safety qualifications for this critical agency position will be both a tremendous blessing and asset to the New Mexico Correctional Department.


New Mexico State Land Office Earns Over $6.5 Million during Oil and Gas Lease Sale

(SANTA FE, New Mexico) – The New Mexico State Land Office earned more than $6.5 million for beneficiaries during its monthly oil and gas lease sale held Jan. 17 in Santa Fe.


PRC’s Patrick Lyons at Forefront of Agency Reform Once Again

Executive study proposes big changes to PRC operations and management
SANTA FE—At its regular open meeting yesterday, the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) once again voted 4-1 to adopt a new management study that will create changes to its structure and leadership.


PEARCE: WASHINGTON CANNOT SPEND ITS WAY OUT OF ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY

Disapproves the President’s Debt Limit Increase
Washington, DC (January 18, 2012) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce took issue with the President’s handling of our nation’s debt.


Santa Fe County Needs Community Members for Multiple Community Center Advisory Committees

Santa Fe, NM – January 18, 2012 - Santa Fe County is currently looking for residents to sit on several Community Center Advisory Committees including: The Benny J. Chavez (Chimayo), Rio en Medio, El Rancho, La Cienega, Abedon Lopez (Santa Cruz) and Nancy Rodriquez (Santa Fe) Community Center.


PRC Vote Sets Fines for Española Towing Company’s Illegal Activity

Commission points case to law enforcement for further action
SANTA FE—The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) recently passed an order to impose heavy cash penalties against a long-time Española-based towing company after it failed to follow state motor carrier laws.


PEARCE: OBAMA ADMINISTRATION CHOOSES SPECIAL INTERESTS OVER AMERICAN JOBS, ENERGY SECURITY

Keystone Decision Prevents Thousands of American Jobs
Washington, DC (January 18, 2012) Today, the Obama Administration announced it was rejecting the permit application for the Keystone XL pipeline. Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement following the Administration’s announcement:


January is National Stalking Awareness Month

(Albuquerque)---New Mexico Attorney General Gary K. King supports National Stalking Awareness Month, a time to focus on a crime that affects 3.4 million victims a year.


MEDIA ADVISORY

(SANTA FE, New Mexico) - A signing ceremony to lease a large parcel of about 11,000 acres of state trust land in Roosevelt County to the U.S. Air Force will take place next Wednesday at the New Mexico State Land Office, in Santa Fe. The lease will allow the U.S. Air Force to expand territory for training in the Melrose area.


Statement on the Governor’s State of the State Message

ALBUQUERQUE, NM- New Mexico House Minority Leader Tom Taylor (R-1) and Minority Whip Don Bratton (R-62) released the following statement in response to the Governor’s State of the State address:


Correctional Officer will be placed on administrative leave

Correctional Officer 38-year-old Alfonso Padilla Jr. of the Central New Mexico Correctional Facility (CNM) in Los Lunas, will be placed on administrative leave. He is identified by the Valencia County Sheriff’s Office as the individual shot Sunday at his ex-wife’s home.


Santa Fe Husband and Wife Found Guilty of Medicaid Fraud

AG`s Medicaid Fraud and Elder Abuse Division Successfully Prosecutes
(SANTA FE)---New Mexico Attorney General Gary King's Medicaid Fraud and Elder Abuse Division reports today Catherine and Joseph Hernandez of Santa Fe have been found guilty by a Santa Fe County jury of Medicaid Fraud and Falsification of Documents.


NEW MEXICO FISHING REPORT

This fishing report, provided by the Department of Game and Fish, has been generated from the best information available from area officers, anglers, guides and local businesses. Conditions may vary as stream, lake and weather conditions alter fish and angler activities.


2012 AMERICAN INDIAN DAY AT THE NEW MEXICO LEGISLATURE

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2012 CAPITOL ROTUNDA at 8:30 AM


GOVERNOR DELIVERS STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS

SANTA FE – The following is the prepared text of the State of the State Address delivered by Governor Susana Martinez from the chamber of the New Mexico House of Representatives on January 17, 2012.


DWI SATURATION PATROL SCHEDULED

Sheriff Robert A. Garcia announces that on Saturday, January 21, 2012 the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office will be conducting a DWI Saturation Patrol of Santa Fe County.


Man Arrested for Homicide in T or C

Sierra County– On January 16, 2012, at 9:30 a.m. the T or C Police Department responded to the 1500 block of Upson Street in T or C in reference a possible homicide.


New Mexico Search and Rescue Teams Help Save Lives over the Holiday Weekend

Santa Fe– Search and Rescue Teams through-out the state were busy over the holiday weekend as they conducted seven separate life saving efforts.


Governor to Deliver State of the State Address

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will deliver the State of the State address Tuesday, January 17 at approximately 12:30 p.m.


WWII PRISONER TRANSPORT EXHIBIT

DISTURBING, BUT NECESSARY, LESSON
ALBUQUERQUE – A new and graphic exhibit at the Holocaust & Intolerance Museum of New Mexico aims to teach young people an important and difficult lesson – If we do not learn from history, it will repeat itself.


COALITION FOR LITERACY CALLS ON LEGISLATURE TO ACT ON ALARMING NUMBER OF ILLITERATE ADULTS

A news conference sponsored by the New Mexico Coalition for Literacy (NMCL) is scheduled for Wednesday, January 18 at 9am to discuss the illiteracy crisis in New Mexico.


Santa Fe County Maternal and Child Health Planning Council Seeking Members

Santa Fe, NM – January 13, 2012 - Santa Fe County is seeking members for the Maternal and Child Health Planning Council (MCH).


EAGLE NEST LAKE OPEN TO ICE FISHING AND OHVS

EAGLE NEST -- Eagle Nest Lake is now open to ice fishing and to all-terrain vehicles and snowmobiles, the Department of Game and Fish and the State Parks Division announced.


Human Trafficker Admits Guilt

Jail Time with Probation to Follow
(ALBUQUERQUE)---Attorney General Gary King's Border Violence Division today announces Dante McKay plead guilty to Human Trafficking and Tampering with Evidence resulting in a sentence of three years incarceration followed by two years supervised probation.


GOVERNOR AND STATE FILM OFFICE ANNOUNCE THE LONE RANGER TO BEGIN PRODUCTION IN NEW MEXICO

Feature production will shoot in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and around the state
SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez and the New Mexico Film Office announced today that Walt Disney Pictures and Jerry Bruckheimer Films’ The Lone Ranger, directed by Gore Verbinski and starring Johnny Depp, will begin principal photography in New Mexico in February 2012, with production planned in and around Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Shiprock and other locations around the state through the middle of August 2012.


Brothers Indicted On Charges Of Stealing $440,000 From An Elderly Edgewood Couple In A real Estate Investment Scam

SANTA FE – Two brothers who befriended an elderly Edgewood couple and stole $440,000 of their lifesavings in a real estate investment scheme have been indicted on several felony charges.


PEARCE: INCREASING THE DEBT LIMIT DECREASES ACCOUNTABILITY

Calls for Genuine Solutions, Not More Government Spending
Washington, DC (January 13, 2012) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement in response to President Obama’s request for a $1.2 trillion increase in the debt limit:


SFCC’s Film Crew I Starts January 23

Applications now being accepted at www.sfcc.edu
Santa Fe Community College`s School of Business, Education and Professional Studies Offers Film Crew I (Film 140 | CRN 30612) is a series of intensive hands-on workshops that train you to be part of a successful filmmaking team and puts you on a movie set during your first semester.


The New Mexico Economic Development Partnership Board Names Steve Vierck as President/CEO of the New Mexico Partnership

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Economic Development Partnership (NMEDP) board named Steve Vierck, CEcD, as president and CEO of the New Mexico Partnership during Friday’s NMEDP board meeting. Vierck is a long-time economic development professional who has a strong record of leading and consulting several economic development organizations both in New Mexico and nationally.


PEARCE LOOKS FORWARD TO CONTINUING STRONG RELATIONSHIP WITH MESCALERO OFFICIALS

Attends Inauguration of President Frederick Chino
Mescalero, NM (January 13, 2012) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce attended the inauguration for Mescalero President Frederick Chino and expressed his commitment to continuing the strong working relationship he has developed with the Tribe.


ALAMOGORDO STATION NOMINATED AS COUNTRY STATION OF YEAR BY NASHVILLE MUSIC PUBLICATION

ATTACHED RELEASE:  Nashville music publication New Music Weekly has nominated KALH - Variety 95.1 FM - Alamgordo, NM as Country Station of the Year.


Division of Insurance Revokes Carlsbad Bondsman`s License

SANTA FE—The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission’s (PRC) Division of Insurance today announced an enforcement action pursuant to the fraudulent business practices of Carlsbad-based Bail Bond Agent, Bradley Bickel.


State Insurance Division Revokes Las Vegas Agent’s License

SANTA FE—The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission’s (PRC) Division of Insurance (DOI) today announced it has taken away David Lee Herrera’s ability to sell insurance after the former agent engaged in “fraudulent or dishonest practices in conduct of business under license” late last year.


Santa Fe County Ethics Board Seeking Members

Santa Fe, NM - January 12, 2012- Santa Fe County is currently seeking interested members of the general public to serve on the County Ethics Board. The Santa Fe County Ethics Board consists of five members who are appointed by the Board of Commissioners (BCC).


PEARCE SEEKS “WOUNDED WARRIOR” FOR FELLOWSHIP POSITION IN CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE

Washington, DC (January 12, 2012) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce announced that his office has been selected to take part in the Wounded Warrior Program, which provides employment opportunities within the House of Representatives to veterans with at least a 30 percent service-connected disability rating. The program is a two-year fellowship and will give a disabled veteran the opportunity to work in a Congressional Office.


AG King's Office Investigation Roots Out Corruption

School Official Ordered to Pay Restitution and Serve Probation
(ALBUQUERQUE)---New Mexico Attorney General Gary King's Office reports recent findings of misspent public monies has led to a felony conviction in connection with Vaughn Municipal Schools.


Santa Fe County Offices Closed for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Santa Fe, NM – January 12, 2012 – Santa Fe County will be closed on Monday, January 16 for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and will resume regular business hours on Tuesday, January 17.


January 10, 2012 BCC Meeting Summary

Santa Fe, NM – January 12, 2012 – Below is a summary of the actions taken by the Santa Fe Board of County Commissioners (BCC). All five of the Commissioners were present.


GOVERNOR DIRECTS DOWNSIZING OF STATE AIR FLEET

Changes will continue reduction from eight airplanes to three
SANTA FE – Today, Governor Susana Martinez announced that the state’s air fleet will be further downsized, eventually leading to a reduction in the number of airplanes owned by the state from eight to three.


New Mexico Inmate Transported to El Paso Hospital

Southern New Mexico Correctional Facility Inmate Eric Sanchez is at an El Paso, Texas, hospital after being assaulted by two other inmates. He was transported Wednesday night to University Medical Center with injuries to his head. He will undergo an operation today.


Guadalupe Mountains National Park to Waive Entrance Fees this Weekend

(Pine Springs, TX) Guadalupe Mountains National Park Superintendent Dennis A. Vásquez announced that the park will join 396 other units of the National Park System in waiving entrance fees this weekend, January 14-16, 2012, in honor of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday.


GOVERNOR ORDERS FLAGS FLOWN AT HALF STAFF IN HONOR OF SERGEANT PERNELL HERRERA

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez has ordered flags flown at half-staff from sunrise to sundown tomorrow, January 12, in honor of Sergeant Pernell Herrera of the New Mexico National Guard. Sgt. Herrera, of Espanola, passed away after suffering cardiac arrest while serving in the Helmand Province of Afghanistan on December 31.


Sen. Dede Feldman, Nine other NM Lawmakers Join Legal Brief in U.S. Supreme Court Case Supporting Affordable Care Act

Albuquerque, NM – Sen. Dede Feldman (D- Bernalillo) and nine other NM state legislators joined with 480 state legislators from 50 states today in filing an Amicus (Friend of the Court) Brief with the U.S. Supreme Court supporting the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act.


GOVERNOR PUSHES FOR INCREASED CHILD SAFETY THROUGH FEDERAL BACKGROUND CHECKS

Legislation allowing immediate federal background checks for emergency foster parent placements will close existing loophole
ALBUQUERQUE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today her support of legislation that will close a major loophole that affects child safety, calling for immediate background checks for relatives or close family friends who take in children in an emergency foster placement. Currently, the FBI’s National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database is not available for this use, but could be with a proposed law change.


NM Behavioral Health Collaborative Meets Thursday, January 12 in Santa Fe

Santa Fe, New Mexico – The New Mexico Behavioral Health Collaborative (Collaborative) will hold its next meeting on Thursday, January 12, 2012 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Human Services Department office, located at 37 Plaza la Prensa in Santa Fe.


HSD to Open SCI for Limited Population

Additional 5,000 New Mexicans to Receive Low Cost Healthcare Through an Innovative Pilot Project
SANTA FE – The Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) has approved a proposal for the Human Services Department (HSD) to work collaboratively with the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center (UNMHSC) and Molina Healthcare of New Mexico to establish a patient-centered medical home pilot project for State Coverage Insurance (SCI) members receiving services through UNMHSC.


AG King Joins Call for Congress to Reauthorize VAWA

(ALBUQUERQUE)---New Mexico Attorney General Gary King has joined with 52 state and territorial Attorneys General calling on the United States Congress to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) for the first time since 2006, ensuring vital programs continue uninterrupted to protect women and families from violence and abuse.


Bingaman Statement on New Mexico's 100th Anniversary

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman issued the following statement on the occasion of New Mexico's 100th anniversary as a state:


Heinrich To Host A Financial Wellness Fair In Albuquerque

ALBUQUERQUE – U.S. Representative Martin Heinrich (NM-1) will host a free Financial Wellness Fair on Thursday, January 12, 2012 from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Los Volcanes Senior Centerlocated at 6500 Los Volcanes Rd. NW. The event is designed to help New Mexicans facing financial challenges and decisions in a difficult economy.


Internal Affairs Completes Investigation of Corrections Department

“The New Mexico Corrections Department's Special Investigations Internal Affairs unit completed their investigation Tuesday into a motorcycle club partially consisting of correctional officers to determine whether or not misconduct or inappropriate relationships existed that could reasonably inhibit the mission of the department.


Governor Will Announce Legislation She Supports That Will Change the Children`s Code to Keep Kids in State Custody Safer

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will speak at the opening session of the Children’s Law Institute (CLI) conference. Martinez will announce legislation that will change the law to help CYFD keep kids safe. The CLI conference is a yearly conference for judges, attorneys, child welfare advocates, state employees, and youth. This year, organizers expect nearly 1,000 attendees. Martinez will help kick off the conference and will announce her support of a change in the Children’s Code.


SENATOR LOPEZ AND REPRESENTATIVE MIERA TO INTRODUCE EDUCATION LEGISLATION

Santa Fe, NM – Senator Linda Lopez (D–Bernalillo–11), Representative Rick Miera (D–Bernalillo–11), and other legislators will hold a press conference on Thursday, January 12, 2012, at 12:00 p.m. in room 315 of the State Capitol in Santa Fe. The purpose of the press conference is to discuss proposed legislation concerning education.


GOVERNOR UNVEILS PRELIMINARY SCHOOL GRADES

Martinez: "New A-F system allows us to track improvement and identify struggling schools and students so that we can invest in helping them succeed"
SANTA FE – For the first time in the history of New Mexico, the state has a school grading system that is uniquely its own. On Tuesday, Governor Susana Martinez unveiled the preliminary, baseline grades for New Mexico’s schools based on the new A-F School Grading Law that passed the New Mexico Legislature with bi-partisan support in 2011.


Probation Violation

Probationer Daniel Martinez was in First District Court in Santa Fe before Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer at 11:30 this morning.


New Mexico National Guardsman`s Memorial Services to be held Wednesday and Thursday

SANTA FE, N.M. – Sgt. Pernell J. Herrera, the recently deceased New Mexico Army National Guardsman, will be honored Thursday, January 12, 2012 in his hometown of Espanola.


White House Invites State Senate Delegation to Washington, DC

Group attends reception with President Obama and meets privately with Sen. Bingaman and US Ed. Sec. Duncan
Santa Fe, NM—A delegation of New Mexico state senators recently attended a reception with President Barak Obama and met privately with U.S. Senator Jeff Bingamen and U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.


State Police Sobriety Checkpoint

Santa Fe — State Police will be conducting a Sobriety Checkpoint on Friday, January 13, 2012, in Santa Fe County.


Sen. Linda Lopez Announces Senate Rules Committee to Convene Meetings this Week

The SRC will meet with state departments and agencies that oversee boards and commissions with authority to appoint individuals subject to senate confirmation. The purpose of the meetings is to familiarize SRC members on top issues from last year and priorities for the upcoming session. Hearings on conferees will NOT take place at this week’s meetings.


MEDIA ADVISORY-Governmental Conduct Act Training in Las Cruces TOMORROW

The AG's office is taking steps to ensure that all state and local government bodies in New Mexico are aware of the changes to the Governmental Conduct Act. This training is one of many that will take place in cities across the State of New Mexico. Chief Deputy AG Al Lama and Deputy AG Betsy Glenn are seminar presenters.


Governor Will Discuss the Preliminary Grades for New Mexico`s Public Schools under the State`s New A-through-F Grading System

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will discuss the preliminary grades for New Mexico’s schools under the new A-through-F grading system this afternoon in Rio Rancho. These grades will be used as a baseline by which schools will be measured when the first official school grades are released this summer. Governor Martinez will be joined by Public Education Secretary-designate Hanna Skandera.


Rail Trail Will Close To Improve Trail Surface

Santa Fe, NM – January 10, 2012- The Santa Fe Rail Trail will be closed to improve a 1.7 mile section of the trail beginning on Thursday, January 12, 2012. The portion of trail that will be closed is located between the Rabbit Road Trail Head (mile post 13.2) and the Spur Trail (mile post 11.5).


Dance, Eat, Learn, Celebrate and Be Inspired at the 1st Annual New Mexico Black History Month Festival

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Jan. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- The New Mexico Black History Month 2012 Organizing Committee has prepared a month of creative, educational, and engaging programming for the entire month of February. The New Mexico Black History Month 2012 Festival begins Friday, February 3 and continues until Sunday, February 26, 2012. A full calendar of events is available on the New Mexico Black History Month 2012 website, www.nmblackhistorymonth.com .


MEDIA ADVISORY----Do You Know Who You Are Talking To?

The "Do You Know Who You Are Talking To?" Public Service Announcement, produced by NM Attorney General Gary King's office, is now playing in various Albuquerque movie theaters. The AGO, in conjunction with the New Mexico Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, released the PSA to raise awareness about Internet safety in continuing efforts to help protect New Mexico families. The PSA was launched December 23, 2011, running until January 23, 2012.


83rd State Police Academy Commenced Yesterday

Santa Fe– On January 8, 2012, 52 recruits reported to the New Mexico State Police training academy to start the 20 week training academy.


Corrections Announces New PIO

I am pleased to officially announce the appointment of Cristina Rodda as the new Public Information Director for the New Mexico Corrections Department. She began her duties in late December.


Public Meeting Scheduled for January 19, 2012 to Review Draft Management Plan for Navajo Lake State Park

Navajo Dam, NM – New Mexico State Parks Division invites citizens to a public meeting to comment on the draft park management plan for the lake portion of Navajo Lake State Park. The plan includes a review of existing park resources and proposes improvements for the next five years.


Cedar Crest Business Owner Indicted on Tax Evasion Charges

Santa Fe – A Cedar Crest, N.M., businessman has been indicted on tax evasion charges for allegedly not paying over $17,000 in gross receipts taxes over a three-year period.


SFCC to Close Monday, Jan. 16, 2012 in Honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

SANTA FE, NM –Santa Fe Community College will close Monday, Jan. 16, in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. All campus facilities will be closed All campus facilities will be closed except the Early Childhood Development Center, KSFR 101.1 FM Santa Fe Public Radio and La Familia Dental Clinic. No classes or activities will be held and no other student services will be available. The campus will reopen on Tuesday, January 17. Spring Semester classes begin Monday, January 23.


FieldPoint Petroleum Plans for Second Well in Lea County, New Mexico

AUSTIN, Texas, Jan. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- FieldPoint Petroleum Corporation (NYSE/AMEX: - FPP), today announced that the Company plans to move forward with drilling a second well in section 15 of the East Lusk Federal field in Lea County, New Mexico.


PEARCE FIGHTS FOR CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS OF HARD WORKING AMERICANS

Joins Lawsuit in Support of Plaintiff to Have Courts Reexamine Individual Mandate of Obamacare
Washington, DC (January 9, 2012) Congressman Steve Pearce announced that he has joined an amicus brief filing by the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ) that seeks to overturn the ruling by the Eleventh Circuit of the United States Court of Appeals on the individual mandate of President Obama’s healthcare program.


PEARCE: CENTENNIAL IS A CELEBRATION OF NEW MEXICO’S RICH HISTORY

Las Cruces, NM (January 6, 2012) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement on New Mexico’s Centennial:


Development in Martinez Case

Daniel Martinez committed several technical probation violations for which he has to appear in court, including a positive urinalysis test and associating with a felon. We are waiting on further testing to confirm the urinalysis results. Initially, he was picked for the probation violation of being a suspect in a violent crime.


GOVERNOR KICKS OFF "GET THE PICTURE" CENTENNIAL TRAVEL PROMOTION

SANTA FE – Today Governor Susana Martinez kicked off the New Mexico Tourism Department’s Centennial travel promotion and photo contest called “Get the Picture” as part of the State’s Centennial celebration. She encouraged residents to travel New Mexico, get the picture and compete for a prize at the same time.


CONSUMER ALERT Fake Checks Hitting NM Consumers 1.6.12

The most recent fake checks circulating New Mexico are now posted on the New Mexico Attorney General's Counterfeit Check Database. Consumers have turned the newly added fraudulent documents over to the AG's Consumer Protection Division for review and each check has been deemed counterfeit. Recipients of these bad checks reside in Villanueva, Rio Rancho, and Albuquerque.


CPD CONDUCTS TRAFFIC SAFETY ACTIVITIES

The Corrales Police Department will be conducting traffic safety activities during the month of January, 2012.


Santa Fe County Development Review Committee (CDRC) Looking For New Members

Santa Fe, NM - January 6, 2012-The Santa Fe County Growth Management Department (Land Use Division) is currently seeking interested members of the general public to serve on the County Development Review Committee (CDRC).


RPNM Statement on New Mexico's Centennial

Albuquerque, NM – Republican Party of New Mexico Chairman Monty Newman released the following statement Friday on the celebration of New Mexico's Centennial:


AG Sues Debt Settlement Firms for Illegal Fees

Other State & Federal Law Violations Alleged
(ALBUQUERQUE)---New Mexico Attorney General Gary King filed a complaint in federal court yesterday against CreditArbitrators LLC and CreditAnswers LLC, two debt settlement companies that illegally charged advance fees prior to settling or reducing a consumer’s debt.


Pearce Statement on December Jobs Report

Washington, D.C. – Congressional Western Caucus Chairman Steve Pearce (R‐NM) released the following statement in response to the December jobs report:


Rep. Tim Lewis Declines APS Paid Leave During NM Session

In a news release sent out Thursday, New Mexico State Representative and Albuquerque Public School (APS) teacher, Tim Lewis announced his decision to voluntarily decline his APS paid leave while he is serving as a citizen legislator in the upcoming session, which starts on January 17.


Senator Smith on Who Blocks Reform in New Mexico

ALBUQUERQUE, NM - In an interview yesterday with the Capitol Report New Mexico, Democratic Senator John Arthur Smith acknowledged that education reforms are blocked behind the scenes in the legislature by those supporting the failed status quo:


GOVERNOR INTRODUCES FISCAL YEAR 2013 BUDGET

With the State's Financial House Back in Order, Governor Invests in Key Areas to Improve Education, Make New Mexico's Economy More Competitive
SANTA FE – Today, Governor Susana Martinez announced her Fiscal Year 2013 budget proposal, which continues the Governor’s commitment to responsible budgeting while calling for targeted and significant investments in important priorities for New Mexico’s children and families.


Governor to Participate in Centennial Events Tomorrow

Tomorrow, Governor Susana Martinez will participate in a series of events to mark the 100th anniversary of New Mexico’s Statehood. The Centennial celebrations will include Governor Martinez attending 100th birthday parties for New Mexico at a Rio Rancho elementary school and at the State Capitol; the first day issuance ceremony of New Mexico’s Statehood Commemorative stamp; the announcement of the New Mexico Department of Tourism’s “Get the Picture” Centennial promotion; and the Grand Centennial Ball to benefit the Centennial Children’s Legacy Fund.


Governor to Announce FY 2013 Budget Proposal

SANTA FE – Today, Governor Susana Martinez will announce and outline her Executive Budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2013 at Santa Fe High School.


Group Meets to Launch Environmental Literacy Plan for New Mexico

The Environmental Education Association of New Mexico (EEANM) will launch on Thursday (January 5) a statewide effort to produce an Environmental Literacy Plan (ELP) for the state’s schoolchildren.


Motor Vehicle Division Offers New Services to Customer Through Interactive Phone System

SANTA FE – New Mexicans can now renew their vehicle and boat registrations, check driver’s license status or pay traffic citations through an interactive phone system without having to visit a Motor Vehicle Division office or talking to a customer service agent.


GOVERNOR UNVEILS NEW FUNDING FORMULA FOR NEW MEXICO'S COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

Institutions will be rewarded for graduating more students, as opposed to constructing buildings
SANTA FE – Today, Governor Susana Martinez met with a large group of regents, governing board members and post-secondary institution presidents in Socorro to discuss the state’s new higher education funding formula.


SFCC Faculty, Students Featured in Espanola's Bond House Museum Exhibit Jan 20-Feb 19, 2012

The Northern New Mexico Regional Art Center (NNMRAC), located in the Convento on the Plaza de Española, is pleased to announce its first contemporary art exhibition produced for the Bond House Museum.


Midwinter Bald Eagle Watch at Abiquiu Lake

Abiquiu, NM. -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Abiquiu Lake will be hosting its annual Midwinter Eagle Watch on Saturday January 7th from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Volunteers will be meeting at the Abiquiu Lake project office, and the event is open to the public.


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE TO HOST VA MEETING IN ARTESIA

Veterans Invited to Visit with Pearce and VA Hospital Staff
Artesia, NM (January 4, 2012) Congressman Steve Pearce will host a meeting on Thursday, January 12th, in which veterans will have the opportunity to talk with the staff of the VA Hospital in Albuquerque, including CEO George Marnell.


PRC Wants Public Feedback on Changes to PNM Monthly Bill Format

SANTA FE—New changes made by Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM) to the format of its monthly bills may need to be reviewed further, say some New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) members.


New Mexico American Water Begins Water Main Replacement in Clovis

Project a Critical Piece of Infrastructure Investment
CLOVIS, N.M., Jan 03, 2012 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- New Mexico American Water is beginning construction to improve the Clovis water system by replacing approximately 2,300 feet of aging, undersized water mains with new 6-inch PVC pipes to improve fire protection and water service. The total cost of the project is expected to be $250,000.


Minor Compliance Operation

SANTA FE –On Thursday, December 29th, 2011 the New Mexico Department of Public Safety, Special Investigation Division lead by Director William Hubbard and supported by the Santa Fe Underage Drinking Prevention Alliance conducted a Minor Compliance Operation with the Santa Fe Police Department and the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office. This operation was funded by the New Mexico Department of Transportation.


Governor to Visit General Mills in Albuquerque and Make Higher Ed Funding Announcement in Socorro

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will join officials from General Mills tomorrow morning to mark the completion of the expansion of the company’s Albuquerque facility, which has expanded General Mills’ presence in New Mexico and created new local jobs.


PRC Chair and Vice-Chair to Stay the Same in New Year

Implementing new management study to improve PRC a top priority in 2012
SANTA FE—At its regular open meeting Tuesday, the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) voted unanimously to reinstate Commissioner Patrick Lyons as its chairman and Commissioner Theresa Becenti-Aguilar as its vice-chair in 2012.


Meth: Train the Trainer Program

New Mexico Attorney General is conducting a Methamphetamine Awareness and Prevention Train-the-Trainer Project on Wednesday, January 25, 2012 from 10:00 AM -12:00 PM.


CENTURYLINK TO SPONSOR FUN ZONE AT NEW MEXICO MUSTANG HOCKEY GAMES IN RIO RANCHO

CenturyLink will become a Sponsor of the “CenturyLink Fun Zone” at all Mustang Hockey games hosted at Santa Ana Star Center in Rio Rancho. Tickets in the “CenturyLink Fun Zone” are only $11 and include a hot dog, a drink and something FUN from CenturyLink.  For die-hard fans, CenturyLink will be giving away official Mustang hockey pucks and jerseys during the 1st Quarter of 2012. Visit the CenturyLink store in the Cottonwood Mall for more details and enter for a chance to win.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES $5.5 MILLION PROPOSAL TO SUPPORT NEW MEXICO SCHOOLS THROUGH NEW A-F GRADING SYSTEM

Funding would provide individual instructional coaches to the lowest performing schools, incentivize effective school leaders and teachers to move to struggling schools
SANTA FE – Today, Governor Susana Martinez announced a $5.5 million proposal to significantly support students and teachers at New Mexico’s struggling schools, as well as reward those schools with the highest student improvement and success. The funding would be allocated based on New Mexico’s new school grading system, which passed the legislature last year with broad bipartisan support.


GCA Training in Las Cruces

The AG's office is taking steps to ensure that all state and local government bodies in New Mexico are aware of the changes to the Governmental Conduct Act. This training is one of many that will take place in cities across the State of New Mexico. Chief Deputy AG Al Lama and Deputy AG Betsy Glenn are seminar presenters.


Dems Successfully Thwart Will of Voters

Liberal Democrat Sworn Into State Senate
ALBUQUERQUE, NM - Liberal Democrat Lisa Curtis, President of the New Mexico Trial Lawyers Association, was sworn into the state senate Monday and was immediately confronted by area residents demanding that Curtis change her position on driver's licenses for illegal immigrants.


Governor Will Announce a Major Funding Proposal for New Mexico’s Schools through the State’s New A-F Grading System

SANTA FE – Today, Governor Susana Martinez will visit Agua Fria Elementary School in Santa Fe to make a major announcement regarding new funding for New Mexico’s schools through the state’s A-F school grading system. Governor Martinez will be announcing a proposal to intervene and support low-scoring New Mexico schools while also rewarding schools that excel in improving their student achievement.


Missing Person Endangered Advisory

Guadalupe County – On behalf of the Santa Rosa Police Department please note the following Missing Person Endangered Advisory.


Three Dead and Several others Injured after New Years Day Crash

Rio Arriba County– On January 1, 2012 at approximately 5:45 p.m., New Mexico State Police responded to a four vehicle alcohol related triple fatality crash on US 550, near milepost 106.


AG's Monthly CA

Please find below the latest Scams & Frauds reported to the New Mexico Attorney General’s Office during December 2011 via the communications@nmag.gov email address.


CNMCF Correctional Officer arrested

Corrections Officer Jonas Barba of the Central New Mexico Correctional Facility (CNMCF) in Los Lunas was arrested on two misdemeanor charges and being held at the Valencia County jail.


EAGLE NEST LAKE OPEN TO ICE FISHING

EAGLE NEST – Eagle Nest Lake opened to ice fishing Friday, Dec. 30, and the Polar Bears will welcome the New Year with a splash in the frigid waters Sunday, Jan. 1, the Department of Game and Fish and the State Parks Division announced.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENTS

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that she has made appointments to the Fire Protection Grant Council, the Early Learning Advisory Council, the State Fair Commission, the Workforce Development Board, the Search and Rescue Review Board, the Physical Therapy Board, the Developmental Disabilities Planning Council, the New Mexico Athletic Commission and the New Mexico Senate.


New Mexico Card Company Announces Plan to Expand

SANTA FE, N.M., Dec 29, 2011 (GlobeNewswire via COMTEX) -- Lori Faye Bock has announced plans to expand the distribution of it's art note card line starting in the first quarter of 2012 through animal protection groups, veterinarians and independently owned card shops, gift shops, book stores and other small businesses seeking to connect with people who love animals and who desire to offer their customer base a new and different product line created and printed entirely in the United States.


GOVERNOR URGES NEW MEXICANS NOT TO DRINK AND DRIVE, ESPECIALLY OVER NEW YEAR’S HOLIDAY

Governor, Legislators, Victims’ Families, and Law Enforcement also Outline Priority Legislation to Crack Down on Repeat DWI Offenders
ALBUQUERQUE – At the site of a DWI checkpoint in Albuquerque this evening, Governor Susana Martinez urged New Mexicans not to drink and drive, especially over the upcoming New Year’s holiday weekend.


PEARCE COMMENTS ON REPORT ISSUED BY POSTAL REGULATORY COMMISSION

USPS Needs to Start Over and Consider Impacts on Local Economies and Residents
Washington, DC (December 29, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement in regards to the oversight report on the U.S. Postal Service’s methods for closing post offices presented by the Postal Regulatory Commission:


Annual Report

Notice to the Governor of the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department 2011 Annual Report.


Santa Fe County Holiday Closure Schedule

Santa Fe, NM – December 29, 2011 – Santa Fe County Offices will be closed on Monday, January 2 and will resume regular business hours on Tuesday, January 3.


State Police Sobriety Checkpoint

Santa Fe — State Police will be conducting a Sobriety Checkpoint on Wednesday, January 4, 2012, in Santa Fe County.


GOVERNOR PROPOSES $4 MILLION IN PUBLIC EDUCATION FUNDING FOR COLLEGE READINESS

Funding Would Expand Access to AP Classes and Dual Credit Programs, Pay for PSAT for NM Students, and Provide Assessments to Monitor Student Progress in Grades 4 through 10
SANTA FE – Thousands of New Mexico students would be better prepared to graduate high school and enter college under a proposal announced by Governor Susana Martinez on Wednesday.


Missing Endangered Person Advisory

Dona Ana County – On behalf of the Las Cruces Police Department please note that the following child is considered a Missing Endangered Person.


New Mexico State Parks Division Celebrates the New Year

With First Day Hikes Across the State on January 1, 2012
Rejuvenate by taking a family friendly trek through a state park close to home!

SANTA FE, NM – New Mexico State Parks Division will sponsor free, guided hikes in three state parks: Sumner Lake, City of Rocks, and Cerrillos Hills State Park on New Year’s Day as part of America's State Parks First Day Hikes initiative. America’s State Parks First Day Hikes are taking place in all 50 states and offer individuals and families an opportunity to begin the New Year rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors by taking a healthy hike on January 1, 2012 at a state park close to home. First day hikes are a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and welcome the new year with friends and family.


Alamogordo Bank Robber Arrested

1-st National Bank in Alamogordo robbed ... suspect quickly


Missing Endangered Person Advisory

McKinley County – On behalf of the Gallup Police Department please note that the following female is considered a Missing Endangered Person.


Governor to Announce Significant Investment in Key College Preparedness Programs for New Mexico Students

SANTA FE – Today, Governor Susana Martinez will announce her intention to invest in several key proposals to expand access to college preparedness programs for New Mexico students and provide teachers with assessment tools to help struggling students graduate from high school.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES SUPPORT FOR OPEN GOVERNMENT LEGISLATION

Proposal Will Require All Final Public Meeting Agendas to Be Available and Posted Online 72 Hours in Advance
SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced her support today for legislation that will increase government transparency by requiring all final public-meeting agendas to be available 72 hours in advance and posted online, along with all related documents. The bill, which will be sponsored by Rep. Jim Smith (R-Sandia Park), is also backed by the New Mexico Foundation for Open Government.


SAN JUAN RIVER HABITAT WORK OPENS MORE TROPHY TROUT FISHING

NAVAJO DAM – The world-class, trophy trout waters of the San Juan River became hotter than ever this month as crews completed a $300,000 project to enhance fish habitat and control sediment


Albuquerque Sobriety Checkpoint 12-29-11

The New Mexico State Police will be conducting a Holiday Sobriety Checkpoint within the Bernalillo County area on December 29, 2011. This checkpoint will be for the purpose of deterring unsafe driving and identifying impaired motorists. The following date has been designated for this operation:


Midwinter Bald Eagle Watch at Abiquiu Lake

Abiquiu, NM. -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Abiquiu Lake will be hosting its annual Midwinter Eagle Watch on Saturday January 7th from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Volunteers will be meeting at the Abiquiu Lake project office, and the event is open to the public. At the start, The Wildlife Center will present a short educational program on Bald Eagles, featuring their non-releasable Bald Eagle, Maxwell. It will be an excellent opportunity to view a mature Bald Eagle up close. Hot coffee and snacks will be available.


NEW MEXICO FISHING REPORT

This fishing report, provided by the Department of Game and Fish, has been generated from the best information available from area officers, anglers, guides and local businesses. Conditions may vary as stream, lake and weather conditions alter fish and angler activities.


GOVERNOR ENCOURAGES WINTER SPORTS FANS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF NEW SNOW ACROSS THE STATE

Motorists Are Urged to Exercise Caution and Observe Weather Alerts
SANTA FE – With plenty of fresh new snow on the ground thanks to a recent string of winter weather, Governor Susana Martinez is urging all winter sports enthusiasts to take advantage of New Mexico’s ski areas, which are all open and operating. According to the New Mexico Tourism Department, ski conditions in the state are the best they have been in years, making the Land of Enchantment a great place to enjoy a winter vacation.


Santa Fe County Receives Merit Award for Public Works Complex

Santa Fe, NM – December 23, 2011 – The Santa Fe County Public Works Complex has received a 2011 American Institute of Architects Citation Award for Architectural Design. Michael Freeman Architect and Bauer Freeman McDermott Architects designed the complex and the contractor was HB Construction.


EPA Commends Governmental Agencies for Environmental Stewardship with electronics

(DALLAS – Dec. 23, 2011) A U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) program for encouraging responsible stewardship of electronic devices has welcomed its first three participants from EPA Region 6, which encompasses Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Louisiana. The University of New Mexico; City of Pharr, Texas; and Travis County, Texas, have committed to responsible operation, maintenance and disposal of electronics through the State Electronics Challenge (SEC).


PEARCE: BUSINESSES AND FAMILIES DO NOT OPERATE ON A 60-DAY BUDGET

Opposes Agreement to Senate’s Limits on Tax Cut Extensions
Washington, DC (December 22, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement in response to the House of Representatives’ agreement to the Senate’s two-month payroll tax cut extension plan:


CORRECTION: Multi-Agency Rescue Efforts Save Family Stranded in Snow Drift on U.S. 56 near Springer

CORRECTION TO PRESS RELEASE: Union County Sheriff’s Department was the assisting agency, not Curry.


New Mexico State Land Office Earns Over

$2 Million during Oil and Gas Lease Sale
(SANTA FE, New Mexico) – The New Mexico State Land Office earned more than $2 million for beneficiaries during its monthly oil and gas lease sale held Dec. 20 in Santa Fe.


Small Loan Lenders Slapped with Injunction

Result of Lawsuit Brought by Attorney General
(SANTA FE)---Cash Loans Now and American Cash Loans, doing business in New Mexico, have been ordered by a court to immediately stop their unconscionable trade practices following a lawsuit brought by Attorney General Gary King.


Santa Fe County Receives Merit Award for South Meadows Project

Santa Fe, NM – December 22, 2011 – The South Meadows Roadway, Bridge and Utilities project in District 2 recently won a Merit Award. The Santa Fe County Public Works Department, Road Projects Division and Gannet Fleming West, Inc. were recipients of the prestigious Award of Merit by Engineering News-Record (ENR) Southwest for best 2011 roadway projects in a tri-state region.


State Cautions against Travel during Upcoming Winter Storm

New Mexicans urged to avoid unnecessary travel and heed road closure signs
While still cleaning up after the latest snow storm, state agencies are preparing for the next snow storm expected to arrive in the state Thursday. In response to the National Weather Service (NWS) issuance of a Winter Weather Advisory for the northern two thirds of the state, the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management has activated the Emergency Operations Center to Level 3 operations. This level of activation will allow the state to conduct situational analysis, resource coordination, and provide further warning notification.


PRC Receives Annual Financial Report from Office of the State Auditor

Yearly audit outlines issues previously reported by PRC staff; new policies in place for future
SANTA FE—The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) today announced it has received its yearly financial audit from the Office of the State Auditor and is in the process of reviewing the report’s findings.


Multi-Agency Rescue Efforts Save Family Stranded in Snow Drift on U.S. 56 near Springer

COLFAX—New Mexico National Guard, New Mexico State Police, New Mexico Department of Transportation, Curry County Sheriff’s Office, and Rescue teams conducted a successful consolidated effort late last night to save the lives of a family stranded in an 8-10 foot snow drift along U.S. 56 near Springer during a powerful snowstorm.


CENTURYLINK TO SPONSOR STUDENT SCHOLORSHIPS AT ALBUQUERQUE AFTERMATH CAMP

CenturyLink will be sponsoring four student scholarships for the Atrisco Heritage Foundation’s AfterMath Camp to be held from December 27th through December 30th at the Carpenters Union Training Center.  AfterMath Camp is a four day program that seeks to provide mid and high school age students with hands on science experiments, math classes and visual learning techniques that will help students improve their scores on Standards Based Assessments.


PEARCE: PRESIDENT AND SENATE NEED TO GIVE TAX CUTS SERIOUS CONSIDERATION

Continues Firm Stance in Favor of Year Long Tax Cut Extensions
Washington, DC (December 21, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement, reiterating his insistence that the Senate and President Obama work with the House of Representatives to ensure year long tax cuts for Americans.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES SUPPORT FOR LEGISLATION TO EXTEND BENEFITS TO VETERANS OF THE NATIONAL GUARD AND RESERVE UNITS

SANTA FE - Governor Susana Martinez announced her support today for legislation which would expand the definition of a veteran under state law in order to include more members of the National Guard and Reserve units.


State Police to Conduct Sobriety Checkpoint

Santa Fe - State Police will be conducting a Sobriety Checkpoint within Santa Fe County on December 23, 2011.


Task Force Case Leads to Jail Time for Child Porn Offender

AG's Internet Crimes Unit Assists Investigation
(LAS CRUCES)---Attorney General Gary King's Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit reports Jordan Lee Garrett, of Doña Ana County, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to 6 counts Distribution and 2 counts Possession of Child Pornography with Intent to Distribute.


Santa Fe County Holiday Closure Schedule

Santa Fe, NM – December 21, 2011 – Santa Fe County Offices will be closed on Monday, December 26 and will resume regular business hours on Tuesday, December 27.


Shale Gas & Conventional Gas: From Pennsylvania to New Mexico

HOBBS, N.M., Dec. 20, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- January 12-13, 2012, Lea County Event Center, Hobbs, NM, EnergyPlex Conference Series 2012


Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Deputies Sponsor a Family

Law enforcement is often dealing with the “not so positive”. However, the Swing shift of the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office wanted to change that during this season and decided to spread some Christmas cheer.


Governor to Attend Promotion of First Female Brigadier General in NM National Guard History This Morning

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will attend a ceremony marking the promotion of Colonel Judy M. Griego to the rank of Brigadier General at New Mexico National Guard headquarters this morning. Colonel Griego’s promotion to Brigadier General will make her the first woman in the history of the New Mexico Army or Air National Guard to be promoted to this rank and position as a line officer.


PEARCE INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO HONOR EDWIN L. MECHEM

Naming of Building Will Honor New Mexico’s Former Governor, United States Senator and Federal Judge
Washington, DC (December 21, 2011) Today Congressman Steve Pearce announced that he has introduced legislation to name the United States federal courthouse in Las Cruces New Mexico after The Honorable Edwin L. Mechem.


Guadalupe Mountains National Park Free Interpretive Programs, January 2012

(Pine Springs, TX) Superintendent Dennis A. Vásquez invites everyone to join park rangers for free interpretive programs at Guadalupe Mountains National Park throughout the month of January. Said Vásquez, “the winter is a quiet time at visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Cold winter temperatures and shorter days bring unique views of the Guadalupes, along with unique challenges of potential high winds and winter storms. The possibility of snow makes the park a winter wonderland. Still, we remind visitors to make sure they are prepared so that their visit is a safe one. We wish everyone a very Happy New Year, and hope that everyone enjoys all that Guadalupe Mountains National Park has to offer during this time of year.”


Guadalupe Mountains National Park to Participate in Annual Christmas Bird Count

(Pine Springs, TX) Guadalupe Mountains National Park Superintendent Dennis A. Vásquez invites everyone to participate in the 112th Annual Christmas Bird Count on Saturday, December 31, 2011 at the park. Counters at Guadalupe Mountains National Park will join more than 50,000 counters and over 2,000 locations throughout North, South and Central America, and the Caribbean, from the Arctic Circle to Tierra del Fuego.


Bingaman & Udall: Budget Bill Includes $215 for NM Air Force Bases, Nat’l Guard

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Jeff Bingaman and Tom Udall today reported that an omnibus spending bill that passed 67-32 today in the Senate includes $215 million to support New Mexico's military installations and National Guard facilities. The measure also includes additional funding though the Department of Defense for a 1.6 percent pay raise for U.S. Military personnel and is now on its way to the president for signature.


Bingaman: New Mexico Communities to Benefit from Transit Grants

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today announced that several New Mexico communities will share more than $774,796 in federal transit grants. The funds come through the U.S. Department of Transportation and will be used to support bus and other transit services throughout the state.


Heinrich: Tea Party Republicans Vote To Raise Taxes on Middle-Class Families

December 20, 2011 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today,U.S. Representative Martin Heinrich (NM-1) released the following statement in response to Tea Party Republicans’ refusal to pass the bipartisan Senate bill to extend middle-class tax cuts, which 39 Senate Republicans supported:


Luján: House Republicans Threaten Tax Increase on Hard-Working New Mexicans

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico’s Third District released the following statement today on House Republicans’ efforts to block a vote on a bipartisan agreement to extend a payroll tax cut and unemployment benefits and prevent a cut to Medicare providers.


Governor to Unveil Wall of Honor Plaque for Medal of Honor Recipient SFC Leroy Petry


ALERT: Liberal Firm Releases More Juiced Numbers

ALBUQUERQUE, NM - True to form, the liberal “polling” firm Public Policy Polling today released numbers that differ dramatically from other legitimate polls and against Republicans.


TWO ANTELOPE SHOT AND LEFT TO ROT SOUTH OF ESTANCIA

ESTANCIA – The Department of Game and Fish would like to make the holidays a lot less merry for whoever shot two pronghorn antelope and left them to rot in a field near Estancia.


MEDIA ADVISORY Human Trafficking Indictment

A Bernalillo County grand jury has indicted Rufus E. Byers of Stockton, California, who will be prosecuted by the New Mexico Attorney General's Office Border Violence Division. The defendant is charged with one (1) count Human Trafficking; one (1) count Promoting Prostitution; and, one (1) count Accepting the Earnings of a Prostitute.


NEW MEXICO FISHING REPORT

This fishing report, provided by the Department of Game and Fish, has been generated from the best information available from area officers, anglers, guides and local businesses. Conditions may vary as stream, lake and weather conditions alter fish and angler activities.


Governor to Announce Juvenile Justice Upgrades at YDDC

SANTA FE - In response to surprise visits made by Governor Susana Martinez and CYFD Secretary Yolanda Deines to New Mexico’s juvenile justice facilities earlier this year, CYFD is announcing a number of measures taken to professionalize services and increase safety for clients and staff. Governor Martinez and Secretary Deines will announce various improvements at a press conference at CYFD's Youth Diagnostic Development Center this afternoon.


PEARCE CALLS ON SENATE TO TAKE ACTION, NOT VACATION

Committed to Bipartisan Efforts for a Year-long Payroll Tax Cut
Washington, DC (December 19, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce, along with other Members of the House of Representatives, returned to Washington to vote down the Senate’s plan to limit the payroll tax cut extension to two months. Congressman Pearce continued his support for New Mexico’s middle class and New Mexican families by rejecting the Senate’s plan, and calling for a one-year extension to the tax cuts.


Lujan, Martinez Should Remove Stapleton From Leadership

ALBUQUERQUE, NM – Republican Party of New Mexico Chairman Monty Newman called on Representative Sheryl Williams Stapleton to step down from her leadership post as New Mexico House Majority Whip last Thursday. At a press conference later the same day Representative Stapleton said she will “absolutely not” step down.


Governor to Welcome National Guard Troops Home in Rio Rancho Tomorrow

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will welcome home members of the New Mexico National Guard at a ceremony in Rio Rancho tomorrow. Approximately 450 soldiers, comprising five units from around New Mexico, have returned home from Kosovo, where they were deployed to support a peace keeping mission.


Governor Martinez Closes Out First Year In Office With Sky High Approval

65 Percent Of New Mexicans Approve Of The Job Martinez Is Doing As Governor
ALBUQUERQUE, NM – The Republican Party of New Mexico Chairman Monty Newman issued the following statement on recent polling data revealing, nearing the end of her first year in office, Governor Martinez earned a 65 percent job approval rating from the people of New Mexico. The Governor’s job approval is up from an initial rating of 59 percent in March of this year.


NEW MEXICO NATIONAL GUARDSMEN TO RETURN FROM KOSOVO

Roswell Ceremony postponed for a later date due to inclement weather
SANTA FE, N.M. – Due to the inclement weather, the New Mexico National Guard has postponed the Welcome Home Ceremony in Roswell, NM today for Soldiers of the 717th BSB returning from a year long deployment to Kosovo. A new day and time for the ceremony is to be announced.


PRC Guides Low Income New Mexicans to Affordable Winter Heating

Several key utility programs support cash-strapped energy and gas consumers during cold months
SANTA FE—Frosty weather can mean high and sometimes unaffordable heating costs for some of New Mexico’s low-income residents. With the winter season now in full-gear, the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission’s (PRC) Consumer Relations Division (CRD) is working hard to let those people know help is available.


PEARCE WELCOMES ROSWELL TROOPS HOME

Thanks Military Men and Women for Their Service
Roswell, NM (December 19, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement in regard to New Mexico National Guard troops returning home to Roswell from deployment in Kosovo:


State Emergency Operations Center Activated Due to Extreme Winter Weather Conditions

New Mexicans urged to avoid unnecessary travel and take measures to protect their homes and families.
Santa Fe, NM - Early this morning, the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) announced a Level 3 Activation of the State Emergency Operations Center (EOC). The activation was triggered by weather advisories. Under activation, the EOC will conduct ongoing situation analysis, alert and notification, and resource coordination.


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE COMMENDS OTERO COUNTY’S EFFORTS

Encourages Timber Industry to Attend Tree Thinning Meeting
Alamogordo, NM (December 19, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement, encouraging timber industry workers to attend a meeting with Otero County Commissioners and their staff regarding the proposed thinning of 450 acres of land in Lincoln National Forest.


MEDIA ADVISORY FOR THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2011

The New Mexico State Police will be conducting a Holiday sobriety checkpoint within the Bernalillo County area on December 22, 2011. This checkpoint will be for the purpose of deterring unsafe driving and identifying impaired motorists. The following date has been designated for this operation:


PEARCE: SENATE PLAN INCREASES UNCERTAINTY IN WORKFORCE

House Republicans Committed to Genuine Solutions
Washington, DC (December 18, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement, addressing payroll tax cut extensions. The House of Representatives passed a bipartisan bill last week, extending the tax cuts for a year; however, the Senate's revised bill only extends the tax cuts for two months.


PEARCE STANDS FIRM IN FAVOR OF PUTTING AMERICANS BACK TO WORK

The Keystone Pipeline Project Would Employ Approximately 20,000 Workers Immediately
Washington, DC (December 16, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce called for the Senate to include the Keystone Pipeline project in the payroll tax cut extension. The extension bill passed by the House of Representatives earlier this week gives the President 60 days to make a decision on the pipeline.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that she has made appointments to the Workforce Development Board, the Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee, the New Mexico Health Insurance Alliance Board of Directors, the Search and Rescue Review Board, the Early Learning Advisory Council, the Board of Dental Health Care, the Historical Records Advisory Board, the New Mexico Employers Mutual Company Board of Directors, the State Board of Finance, and the Youth Conservation Corps Commission. Governor Martinez has made reappointments to the Public Safety Advisory Commission and has made an appointment to the Public Education Commission, filling a vacant elected position.


Santa Fe County Chauffeur and Designated Driver (CADDy) Program

Santa Fe, NM – December 16, 2011 – Santa Fe County would like to remind residents that the Chauffeur and Designated Driver (CADDy) Program is available for all adult residents to utilize every Friday and Saturday night.


Operation Christmas Shield

Rio Arriba/ Santa Fe and Los Alamos- New Mexico State Police will be spearheading a warrant round-up with the support of the Administrative Office of the Courts and the US Marshals Service.


Governor to Welcome National Guard Troops Back to New Mexico This Week

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will welcome home members of the New Mexico National Guard at three ceremonies around the state next week. Approximately 450 soldiers, comprising five units from around New Mexico, are returning home from Kosovo, where they were deployed to support a peace keeping mission. Ceremonies will take place in Las Cruces and Roswell on Monday and Rio Rancho on Tuesday.


PEARCE: APPROPRIATIONS CONTAINED LONG TERM SOLUTIONS, SIGNIFICANT CUTS

Focuses on Putting Money Back Into the Pockets of Americans
Washington, DC (December 16, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement on the passage of H.R. 2055, the Consolidated Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2012 that averted a government shutdown:


Santa Fe County Hires Public Works Director

Santa Fe, NM – December 16, 2011 – Adam Leigland has been hired as the new Santa Fe County Public Works director. Leigland has spent the last eight years in Italy and most recently was the Deputy Director of Public Works for Aviano Air Base in northern Italy. Prior to being the Deputy Director he was Chief Engineer for Aviano Air Base, along with numerous other Public Works, Planning and Engineering positions around the world.


Centennial Journeys: Broadcast-Ready Series Available Now

The New Mexico Centennial Steering Committee is pleased to announce the release of Centennial Journeys, a series of 1:58 (two-minute) programs for radio broadcast, to air weekdays during 2012 in celebration of 100 years of New Mexico statehood.


NEW MEXICO NATIONAL GUARDSMEN TO RETURN FROM KOSOVO

SANTA FE, N.M. -- The New Mexico National Guard will hold three Welcome Home Ceremonies for approximately 450 New Mexico Soldiers returning from a year long deployment to Kosovo. The soldiers, which are assigned to five units from various locations around the state, were deployed there in support of a peace keeping mission.


Working Meeting to discuss Aamodt on Wednesday, December 21

Santa Fe, NM – December 15, 2011 – Santa Fe County Commissioner Daniel Mayfield would like to notify county residents there will be a Working Meeting to discuss the Aamodt Water System on Wednesday, December 21, 2011 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Pojoaque Schools Administration Building. The meeting will focus on the size and configuration of the Aamodt Water System. All interested residents are welcome and encouraged to attend the meeting.


Caution: Liberal Group Releasing Juiced Poll Numbers In State

Poll Artificially Reduces Republican Voters By Almost 10%
ALBUQUERQUE, NM - The Democratic polling organization — Public Policy Polling — which polls for the liberal website Daily Kos, has begun releasing general election poll numbers in New Mexico on the US Senate race. This is not a credible polling firm, but rather a liberal group that has been exposed this year as a "wholly owned subsidiary of the Democratic Party" for using their polls to shape public opinion, rather than measure it.


Camino de Jacobo Landscaping Project Update

Santa Fe, NM – December 15, 2011 - Santa Fe County started Phase II and III of the Camino de Jacobo Landscaping Project. The Camino de Jacobo Landscaping project was designed to incorporate a regional landscaped environment, while providing outdoor areas for gathering and promoting community.


New Mexico AG Investigator Recognized for Job Well Done

(ALBUQUERQUE)---Attorney General Gary King is proud to announce that Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Supervisor Anthony Maez has received an Award Citation from United States Attorney Kenneth Gonzales, recognizing his leadership of the joint ICAC operation.


New Mexico Softball Announces Winter Clinics

Lobo softball coaches and players will conduct a variety of sessions Saturday Jan. 14 and Sunday Jan. 15 for players aged 11 years and older
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - Lobo softball head coach Erica Beach and her staff are pleased to announce the New Mexico Softball Winter Clinics, set to take place at the Lobo Softball Complex Saturday Jan. 14 and Sunday Jan. 15.


Senator Richard C. Martinez Elected First Vice President of National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators

SANTA FE — Senator Richard C. Martinez, D-Española, was recently elected first vice president of the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators (NHCSL) for a two-year term, Senate President Pro Tempore Timothy Z. Jennings announced.


Representative Stapleton Should Resign Leadership Post

Majority Whip’s Comments Unbecoming Of The Office
Rep. Sheryl Williams Stapleton (D-Albuquerque) verbally unloaded on one of her Republican colleagues yesterday. According to news reports of the incident, Stapleton was shouting “Don’t mess with me,” and accusing her colleague of “carrying the Mexican’s water on the fourth floor,” in reference to Governor Martinez.


December 13 BCC Meeting Summary

Santa Fe – December 14, 2011 – Below is a summary of the actions taken by the Santa Fe Board of County Commissioners (BCC), four of the five Commissioners were present, Commissioner Danny Mayfield was excused.


PEARCE VOTES FOR DEFENSE FUNDING

Clarifies Intent of Legislation
Washington, DC (December 14, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted in favor of H.R. 1540, the National Defense Authorization Act. This legislation authorizes appropriations for the fiscal year 2012.


State Police and NMTPD Conduct Sobriety Checkpoint and Saturation Patrol on I-25

Socorro- New Mexico State Police, State Police K-9 and New Mexico Motor Transportation Police Department and K-9 conducted a Sobriety Checkpoint this morning north of Socorro. At the same time, State Police Motorcycle Patrol officers conducted a Saturation Patrol in the same area.


Draft Sustainable Land Development Code (SLDC) Chapters Now Available

Santa Fe, NM- December 14, 2011 - The first four chapters of the Sustainable Land Development Code (SLDC) were released to the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) and the public at the December 13, 2011 BCC Meeting.


WATCH GAME COMMISSION MEETING LIVE FROM GOVERNOR’S WEBSITE

SANTA FE – Thursday’s meeting of the New Mexico Game Commission will be broadcast live over the internet. Webcasting the meeting aligns with Gov. Susana Martinez’s initiative to make state government more accessible and transparent.


Missing Person Advisory

Colfax – On behalf of the Springer Police Department please note the following Missing Person Advisory.


ICE TOO DANGEROUS FOR FISHING AT FENTON LAKE

LA CUEVA -- Fenton Lake likely will remain closed to ice fishing through the winter because thermal activity is creating unsafe ice conditions, the Department of Game and Fish and the State Parks Division announced.


County Commissioner Kathy Holian will Host Community Meeting to Discuss New Pipeline

Santa Fe, NM – December 14, 2011 - Santa Fe County Commissioner Kathy Holian will host a meeting on Saturday, December 17, 2011 at 1 p.m to discuss the new pipeline that will be supplying County water to Canoncito.


NEW MEXICO SUNSHINE PORTAL NOW INCLUDES NAMES, SALARIES OF CLASSIFIED EMPLOYEES STATEWIDE

Governor Backs Measure to Require Changes in Statute
SANTA FE - Governor Susana Martinez announced today that her administration has completed an overhaul of the New Mexico Sunshine Portal, which now displays the names, titles, and salary rates of all state employees, regardless of their classification. In the past, the Sunshine Portal has only listed information for exempt employees.


RNC Media Advisory

U.S. Rep Steve Pearce (NM-2) To Hold Conference Call on the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act
WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Rep Steve Pearce (NM-2) and the RNC will hold a conference call Today, December 14th at 1:30 PM ET/ 11:30 AM MT to talk about the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act.


Santa Fe Community College is CLOSED Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2011

SANTA FE, NM – Santa Fe Community College is closed today, Wednesday, Dec. 14 due to weather conditions. Based on the road conditions and forecasts, the campus is closed. No on or off campus classes or activities will be held, and no labs or other student services will be available today.


Governor To Tour Holloman Air Force Base and White Sands Missile Range

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will tour Holloman Air Force Base tomorrow, December 14 and White Sands Missile Range on Thursday, December 15. The Governor will receive briefings on operations and meet with personnel at both facilities.


Governor To Attend Meeting of the Alamogordo and the Tularosa Rotary Clubs

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will attend a meeting of the Alamogordo Rotary Club and the Tularosa Rotary Club today in Alamogordo. Governor Martinez will be joined by Rep. Yvette Herrell (R-Alamogordo).


ICYMI: Democrat Trial Lawyer Lisa Curtis is `Apolitical`

(Nevermind Her Leftwing Positions on Issues)
ALBUQUERQUE, NM - Albuquerque trial lawyer Lisa Curtis hasn't even been appointed to the state senate and she's already trying to spin her way to re-election. Curtis, who is the President of the New Mexico Trial Lawyers Association, is now claiming to be an independent who will put the needs of her district first.


PEARCE VOTES FOR JOBS, AGAINST TAX INCREASES ON JOB CREATORS

Votes to Pass Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act
Washington, DC (December 13, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted in favor of H.R. 3630, the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act, which includes the Keystone Pipeline project and payroll tax relief.


Job Training Incentive Program Helps Seven Companies Hire and Train 191 New Employees

SANTA FE - The Job Training Incentive Program (JTIP) board approved $1,198,930 in funds during its December meeting to help create 191 new jobs in New Mexico with an average wage of nearly $16.51 an hour.


Heinrich Details Opposition To Indefinite Detention Of Americans

Heinrich-Johnson letter with more than 30 signatures urges changes to defense authorization bill
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Martin Heinrich (NM-1), U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-4), and 30 colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives today sent an urgent letter to House and Senate Armed Services Committee leaders and conferees opposing provisions of the National Defense Authorization Act that would authorize indefinite detention of Americans and tie the hands of domestic law enforcement in terrorism cases. Read the letter (PDF) »


EAGLE NEST LAKE PIKE, YOUTH ELK HUNTS ON STATE GAME COMMISSION AGENDA

ALBUQUERQUE – The New Mexico Game Commission will consider allowing unlimited take of northern pike from Eagle Nest Lake to address the aggressive species’ threat to the lake’s trout and salmon fishery at its meeting Thursday, Dec. 15, in Albuquerque.


RPNM Chairman Monty Newman Calls DNC Chair’s Comments On The Economy Delusional

Albuquerque, NM –Republican Party of New Mexico Chairman Monty Newman released the following statement in response to DNC Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz’s denial that unemployment went up under President Obama:


NEW MEXICO FISHING REPORT

This fishing report, provided by the Department of Game and Fish, has been generated from the best information available from area officers, anglers, guides and local businesses. Conditions may vary as stream, lake and weather conditions alter fish and angler activities.


Special Investigations Division Hosts Alcohol Initiative Symposium

On Thursday, December 15, 2011, the Special Investigations Division (SID) of the New Mexico Department of Public Safety will be hosting the first of a series of meetings aimed at broadening the perspectives of communities within the state concerning how their unique problems with alcohol might be addressed. The initial meeting will be from 1:00 – 3:30 p.m. at the Albuquerque Marriott Pyramid.


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE LOOKS FORWARD TO WORKING WITH NEW BLM STATE DIRECTOR

Congratulates Appointee
Washington, DC (December 13, 2011) Today Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement in response to the New Mexico Bureau of Land Management (BLM) naming Jesse Juen as Director:


New Residential Certification For Local Businesses and Contractors To Bid On State Contracts Takes Effect

In-State Companies and Contractors Receive Five Percent Bidding Advantage
SANTA FE – New Mexico companies or contractors who wish to obtain a five percent bidding advantage on all state contracts are required to obtain a valid resident business certificate or resident contractor certificate issued by the State Taxation and Revenue Department starting Jan. 1, 2012. This in-state preference doesn’t apply to contracts that use federal funding.


Attorney General’s Office Proposed Legislation for 2012

Once again, our Attorney General’s Office Legislative Team is preparing for the next session of the New Mexico Legislature. This is a 30-day session and my office is asking the Governor to allow a number of important pieces of legislation onto the agenda. Our list is comprised of bills that, for one reason or another, did not get heard or acted upon during the previous session. Since the next session is still several weeks away, our list could change or have additions but the following are a few of the bills we are currently considering.


REMINDER Governmental Conduct Act Training THIS WEEK IN TAOS

The AG's office is taking steps to ensure that all state and local government bodies in New Mexico are aware of the changes to the Governmental Conduct Act. This training is one of many that will take place in cities across the State of New Mexico. Chief Deputy AG Al Lama and Deputy AG Betsy Glenn are seminar presenters.


PEARCE INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO CREATE A HEALTHIER SOCIETY

Drug Testing Recipients of Unemployment Compensation
Washington, DC (December 9, 2011) Yesterday, Congressman Steve Pearce introduced H.R. 3615, the Accountability in Unemployment Act. His bill will combat abuse of the federal unemployment compensation program and save taxpayers money. The legislation requires recipients of unemployment benefits to pass a drug screen.


NEW MEXICO AMERICAN INDIAN CLASSIC - DECEMBER 28-30, 2011

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.-The Striking Eagle Well-Being Education Circle is honored to announce the inaugural New Mexico American Indian Classic (NMAIC) High School Basketball Tournament and Education Fair. This tournament is slated for December 28-30, 2011; and will take place at the Santa Ana Star Center and Bernalillo High School Gymnasium.


MEDIA ADVISORY---Counterfeit Check Database

The New Mexico Attorney General's Office in Albuquerque received a fake check this week at the correct street address that reads "Pay to The Order of Scam Scam" in the amount of $948.68, further proving that anyone can receive a fraudulent check at any time. A copy of this check is attached.


What We Do and How We Do It


Governor to Unveil Special Governor's Heart Gallery of New Mexico

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will unveil a special Heart Gallery of New Mexico in the reception area of the Governor’s Office. The Heart Gallery of New Mexico, founded by the Children, Youth, and Families Department in 2001, is a photographic art show featuring New Mexico foster children who are waiting to be adopted as well as previous success stories. The gallery will be on display in the Governor’s Office through the end of the 2012 legislative session.


Lowe's Announces New Plans for Customer Support Center

Albuquerque location expected to create 600 jobs by 2013
MOORESVILLE, N.C., Dec 08, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Lowe's announced plans today for a new Customer Support Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The center is expected to be operational during the first quarter of 2012 and is estimated to create 250 jobs by March and a total of 600 jobs by the end of 2013.


Tax Department Switches to Digital Processing of Personal Checks; Will No Longer Automatically Mail Income Tax Packages

Both Measures Will Save State Nearly $90,000
SANTA FE – State Taxation and Revenue Secretary Demesia Padilla today announced that the State will no longer automatically mail personal income tax packages to individual taxpayers, a move that is expected to result in over $70,000 in savings for the State. The Department has also switched to digital processing of personal checks that will save an additional $18,000 and enable faster deposits of money into State accounts for investments and accruing interests.


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE VOTES TO SAVE NEW MEXICO AGRICULTURE JOBS

Legislation Cuts Red Tape and Removes Unnecessary Regulations
Washington, DC (December 8, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted in favor of H.R. 1633, the Farm Dust Regulation Prevention Act of 2011, which would temporarily halt the EPA’s plans to revise the to place additional restrictions on farm dust that is sometimes kicked up by vehicles or farm equipment on dirt roads.


EPA Region 6 Enforcement and Compliance Results for 2011

More than $29 million assessed for penalties
(DALLAS – Dec. 8, 2011) With over 600 enforcement actions in the region, environmental violators were required to spend about $311.7 million in pollution controls and cleanup, with another $2 million invested in environmental projects benefitting communities. These actions allowed the treatment, minimization or disposal of more than 3.1 billion pounds of hazardous waste, 137.5 million pounds of air and water pollutants reduced, treated or properly disposed, cleaning of about 3.6 million cubic yards of contaminated soil and water, and the assessment of $29 million in civil penalties.


Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park Waives Entrance Fee for Visitors Donating Food or Toys During Holiday Season

CARLSBAD, NM – Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park continues a holiday tradition by waiving entrance fees to the park for visitors donating non-perishable food items, new toys, or personal items for those less fortunate. For the past 16 years, the park has collected these items during the holiday season and donated them to Jonah’s Food Pantry, Christmas Anonymous, and the Carlsbad Battered Family Shelter.


Santa Fe City and County Advisory Council on Food Policy Needs Volunteer Members

Santa Fe – December 8, 2011 – Santa Fe County is seeking citizens to serve on the Santa Fe City and County Advisory Council on Food Policy (FPC). FPC members are volunteers appointed by the Santa Fe Board of County Commissioners (BCC) to assist the county in engaging and eliciting community input regarding the nutritional needs of county residents and assisting the BCC in studying, researching, and recommending policy to improve the availability of safe and nutritious food at reasonable prices for all residents, particularly those in need.


Oasis State Park to Award Annual Day Use Pass To a Returning Military Member

PORTALES, NM – New Mexico State Parks Division announces that it will award an Annual Day Use Pass to a returning U.S. military service member of the 73rd Special Operations Squadron Cannon Air Force Base in appreciation for his/her service. The gift will go to a service member selected by drawing at the squadron’s Welcome Home/Holiday Party, which will be held on December 10, 2011.


PRC Blue Cross Blue Shield Rate Hearing Rescheduled for February

SANTA FE—The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission’s (PRC) Division of Insurance (DOI) has rescheduled a public hearing regarding a 9.9 percent rate increase proposal it denied in October from Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Mexico for individual health insurance plans. The hearing had previously been set for Dec. 14, but has been moved to Feb. 14.


Heinrich Offers Plan To Save Jobs and Support Infrastructure in Rural New Mexico Counties

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S Representative Martin Heinrich (NM-1), joined by cosponsors Reps. Ben Ray Luján (NM-3), Jim Matheson (UT-2), and Shelley Berkley (NV-1), introduced a plan to extend the life of two initiatives that direct millions of dollars in revenue to New Mexico counties to support local employment in schools, county maintenance programs, forest management, and other critical county programs. The plan is a House companion bill to U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman’s County Payments Reauthorization Act of 2011.


Governor to Attend Groundbreaking Ceremony for Housing Development Project

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will attend a groundbreaking ceremony this afternoon for a $22 million housing development project that will provide low income housing in communities around New Mexico. The first of the projects is a $9.7 million renovation of an existing structure in Santa Fe, which will be turned into a 60-unit development. The program will also include a $5.1 million project in Deming and a $6.7 million project in Las Cruces.


Luján Honors the World War II Service of Navajo Code Talkers

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico’s Third District spoke on the House floor last night to honor the contributions of the Navajo Code Talkers during World War II. Below are his remarks as prepared.


The RCFL Program Opens New Laboratory in New Mexico

The New Mexico Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory (NMRCFL) officially opened on the grounds of the University of New Mexico today—the second RCFL physically located on a university campus, and the 16th such facility in the FBI’s national network of full-service digital forensics laboratories and training centers.


San Marcos Transfer Station Will Reopen on December 16

Santa Fe, NM – December 8, 2011 – The Santa Fe County Solid Waste Division would like notify residents that the San Marcos transfer station will reopen and resume regular business hours on Friday, December 16, 2011. The San Marcos transfer station was closed on October 1, 2011 to allow for upgrades to the facility.


State Police Helping make Needy Children’s Christmas Brighter

Albuquerque- New Mexico State Police Officers and Civilian staff at the Albuquerque office are looking to make this Christmas a little more special for a local Child Care Centers.


Governor to Address Albuquerque Economic Development Luncheon

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will address the quarterly Albuquerque Economic Development Luncheon today at Sandia Resort, where she will discuss strategies to make New Mexico more competitive with neighboring states, as well as an important proposal to encourage economic growth and job creation. The Governor will also make an important announcement about new jobs coming to the Albuquerque area.


PEARCE HONORS NATIVE AMERICAN CODE TALKERS

Group of American Heroes Deserves Recognition and Honor
Washington, DC (December 7, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement to honor Native American Code Talking:


PEARCE SUPPORTS REINING IN EXCESSIVE GOVERNMENT REGULATION

REINS Act Will Reduce Regulatory Burden and Restore Accountability
Washington, DC (December 7, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted in favor of the Regulations from the Executive In Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act, which will restore agency accountability on major regulations.


STATEMENT RE: L.E.A. Board call for "Emergency" meeting

Chief Deputy Attorney General Albert Lama issued the following statement today regarding media inquiries for comment on yesterday's announcement by the NM Law Enforcement Academy that an "Emergency" meeting of the NMLEA Board is to be held next week:


SFCC Winter Break Closure

Campus Closed Saturday, December 17 through Monday, January 2, 2012
SANTA FE, NM – Santa Fe Community College will close for Winter Break Saturday, December 17 through Monday, January 2, 2012. The campus will reopen on Tuesday, January 3.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES EARLY CHILDHOOD READING INITIATIVE

Proposal Will Invest $17 Million in Reading Support and Intervention, Ensure that Students Can Read Before Entering the 4th Grade
SANTA FE - Today, Governor Susana Martinez announced a proposal to invest $17 million dollars in new funding to help New Mexico's children learn how to read. The Early Reading Initiative will provide new reading coaches and offer new screenings to students who are struggling to read, as well as increase funding for pre-K programs and supplemental instruction for children in need of reading assistance.


Santa Fe County Health Policy and Planning Commission (HPPC) Seeking Members

Santa Fe, NM – December 7, 2011 – Santa Fe County is seeking citizens to serve on the Santa Fe County Health Policy and Planning Commission (HPPC), specifically one member for Commission Districts 2, 3, 4, and two members for District 5.


AG Asks Congress To Help Protect NM Consumers

Cell Phone Privacy at Stake
(ALBUQUERQUE)---Attorney General Gary King is urging Congress to give a thumbs down to federal legislation that would allow telephonic junk mail to be sent to cell phones, at consumers' expense.


Governor to Announce Set of Early Childhood Education Proposals

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will visit Wood Gormley Elementary School in Santa Fe today to announce a set of early childhood education proposals for the upcoming legislative session. Governor Martinez will be joined by Public Education Department Secretary-Designate Hanna Skandera to discuss the Early Reading Initiative, a $17 million education investment designed to ensure that New Mexico children can read proficiently by the end of third grade.


NEW MEXICO FISHING REPORT

This fishing report, provided by the Department of Game and Fish, has been generated from the best information available from area officers, anglers, guides and local businesses. Conditions may vary as stream, lake and weather conditions alter fish and angler activities.


UPDATE: PRC to Hold Public Hearing on PNM Payment Center Closures

SANTA FE - The New Mexico Public Regulation Commision (PRC) will hold a public hearing December 7 to address concerns surrounding Public Service Company of the New Mexico`s (PNM) recent proposal to close eight of its payment center locations across the state.


PEARCE OFFERS CONDOLENCES AND PRAYERS FOR THE FAMILY OF ROD COFFMAN

Hobbs, NM (December 5, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement on the death of Lea County Sheriff, Rod Coffman:


Courthouse Site Tour on Tuesday, December 6 Postponed Due to Weather

Santa Fe, NM – December 5, 2011 – The Courthouse site tour for the First District Court, Legislative Delegation and Board of County Commissioners (BCC) on Tuesday, December 6, 2011 at 1 p.m. has been postponed due to weather.


SFCC’s Fashion Club Presents the 2011 Fall Fashion Show on Friday, Dec. 9, 6-9 p.m. at Warehouse 21

SFCC students to showcase their original designs
Santa Fe Community College’s Fashion Club Presents the Fall Fashion Show Featuring photography, jewelry and fashion from SFCC’s Arts and Design Students, belly dancing, hors d’oeuvres, music and fun!


State Insurance Division Issues Catastrophe Declaration Due to Wind Damage

SANTA FE—The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission’s (PRC) Division of Insurance (DOI) said today it has issued a Declaration of Catastrophe to all property and casualty insurers and adjusters across the state after receiving thousands of damage claims stemming from last week’s severe winds.


Vice Chair Becenti-Aguilar to Host Public Meeting with CenturyLink to Address Telephone Services in Rural Areas

SANTA FE—New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) Vice-Chair, Theresa Becenti- Aguilar, will host a public meeting Dec. 9 in Gallup with CenturyLink to address concerns regarding telephone services for residents living in Baahaali, Chichiltah and Red Rock Chapters.


PRC Insurance Division Denies Presbyterian Rate Increase

New rate for consumers based on medical inflation
SANTA FE - The New Mexico Regulation Commission's Division of Insurance (DOI) today announced it recently denied a 9.7 percent rate increase based soley on annual inflation of medical costs in New Mexico.


Working Meeting to discuss Aamodt on Monday, December 5 Postpone Due to Weather

Santa Fe, NM – December 5, 2011 – The Working Meeting to discuss the Aamodt Water System on Monday, December 5, 2011 at 3 p.m. in the County Public Works Conference Room has been postpone due to weather and tentatively rescheduled for Wednesday, December 21 at 3 p.m.


State Christmas Tree Lighting POSTPONED to Wednesday 12/7 Due to Inclement Weather

SANTA FE – The annual State Christmas Tree lighting ceremony originally scheduled to take place today at 5 p.m. has been rescheduled to Wednesday, December 7 at 5:00 p.m. due to inclement weather.


New Mexicans Urged to Prepare for Cold Weather

SANTA FE, NM – New Mexicans are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, prepare their homes, and use caution throughout the coming days of sustained cold temperatures. Large portions of New Mexico can expect cold temperatures, icy conditions, and snow. Cold temperatures are expected to last through Tuesday.


State Police Seeking Information in Death Investigation

Mora — A body identified as that of Paul E. Vigil (47), of Denver, Colorado was found near Mora, New Mexico on November 2nd, 2011.


State Police Investigating Lea County Sheriff`s Suicide

Lea — Rod Coffman (47), of Hobbs New Mexico was found dead in his home late last night after officers responded to his home via 911 call.


PRC to Hold Public Hearing on PNM Payment Center Closures

SANTA FE - The New Mexico Public Regulations Commission (PRC) will wold a public hearing Dec 7 to address concerns surrounding Public Service Company of New Mexico's (PNM) recent proposal to close eight of its payment center locations across the state.


SFCC’s Film Student Juried Winter Showcase

Monday, December 12, 6-8 p.m. | St. Francis Auditorium | Public invited The Showcase is a public celebration featuring work from the Fall 2011 semester film production classes at SFCC. Approximately 50 student films will be shown.


NMDOT, NMSP, and DHSEM reminds citizens to stay safe during winter storms

Forecast Calls for Snow and Ice; Motorists Urged to Drive Cautiously
The New Mexico Department of Transportation, New Mexico State Police, Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management are reminding citizens to take necessary precautions to stay safe during the winter storms expected to hit New Mexico tonight and through tomorrow morning. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Warning in the Central and Northeast parts of the State.


AG's Consumer Alert----Winner's International Lottery

New Mexico Attorney General Gary King's Consumer Protection Division is warning legitimate lottery winners in our state about receiving notification of winning the bogus Winners International's lottery.


PEARCE: UNEMPLOYMENT REMAINS TOO HIGH, JOBS REMAIN TOP FOCUS

Washington, DC (December 2, 2011) Today Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement in response to the November unemployment report:


MEDIA ADVISORY Governmental Conduct Act Training

The AG's office is taking steps to ensure that all state and local government bodies in New Mexico are aware of the changes to the Governmental Conduct Act. This training is one of many that will take place in cities across the State of New Mexico. Chief Deputy AG Al Lama and Deputy AG Betsy Glenn are seminar presenters.


MEDIA ADVISORY INTERNET SAFETY PRESENTATIONS

New Mexico Attorney General Gary King's Office will be at Albuquerque Academy next Tuesday (12/6) and Thursday, (12/8) presenting 7th and 8th grade students with ways to stay safe when surfing the Internet. Both presentations begin at 9:00am.


Santa Fe County is Seeking Citizens to Serve on the Santa Fe County DWI Planning Council

Santa Fe, NM – December 2, 2011- Santa Fe County is seeking community members with a background in law enforcement, emergency services, media, or courts/judicial to serve on the DWI Planning Council. Members are volunteers appointed by the Santa Fe Board of County Commissioners (BCC).


NMDOT in cooperation with Pueblo of Taos begins enhancement work on east side of the Taos Gorge Bridge on U.S. 64, in Taos County

The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) announced that maintenance crews will begin landscaping enhancement work today on the east side of the Taos Gorge Bridge on U.S. 64, in Taos County. The project is taking place in cooperation with the Pueblo of Taos in an effort to enhance the gateway across the Taos Gorge Bridge and to restore tribal lands to a more natural state.


2012 Marks New Mexico's Centennial Celebration

Op-Ed Submitted by Sen. Michael S. Sanchez, Senate Majority Leader (D-29-Valencia)
Many of you are already aware that 2012 marks New Mexico's centennial — 100 years of statehood. As we approach our 100th birthday, I think it is important to think about a few things. Like any birthday, our centennial is a chance to look back at how far we have come as a state.


GOVERNOR URGES NEW MEXICANS TO PREPARE FOR SEVERE WEATHER; CONFIRMS READINESS OF UTILITY COMPANIES

SANTA FE – As season’s first winter storm approaches, Governor Susana Martinez asked New Mexicans to take steps to prepare for the upcoming severe weather and has personally confirmed that utility companies are prepared to deal with any resulting outages.


PEARCE TO MEET WITH FWS OFFICIALS TO DISCUSS OBJECTIVES OF 6-MONTH EXTENSION

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Announces Extension to the Proposed Listing of the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard
Washington, DC (December 1, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following response in regard to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (FWS) decision to extend the listing of the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard under the Endangered Species Act (ESA):


MEDIA ADVISORY --- Cyberbulling help for students

New Mexico Attorney General Gary King's Cyberbullying-Protecting Yourself and Your Personal Information brochure is now available at http://nmag.gov/Publications/Default.aspx


GOVERNOR NAMES JACQUELINE COOPER CHIEF PUBLIC DEFENDER

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that she has appointed Jacqueline Cooper of Cedar Crest to the position of Chief Public Defender for the State of New Mexico. Cooper has served in the Public Defender’s Office for over 20 years and currently heads the office’s Mental Health Division, while also serving as the Acting Chief Public Defender.


NMDOT, NMSP, and DHSEM Announce Winter Preparedness and Urge Motorists to Reduce Speed, Buckle Up, and Plan Travel Accordingly

The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT), Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) and New Mexico State Police (NMSP) today stressed safety by urging motorists to prepare for unfavorable winter driving conditions. The NMDOT, in conjunction with NMSP and the DHSEM have teamed up to ensure preparedness of emergency equipment for the upcoming winter storms expected to hit New Mexico.


Consumer Alert

Attorney General Gary King's Consumer Protection Division's Counterfeit Check Database has been updated to help consumers identify fraudulent checks that are currently circulating in New Mexico. Consumers can view a variety of bogus checks at http://www.nmag.gov/checkscams/default.aspx


November 29 BCC Meeting Summary

Santa Fe, NM – December 1, 2011 – Below is a summary of the actions taken by the Santa Fe Board of County Commissioners. All five Commissioners were present.


Search Warrant nets State Police Big Drug Bust in Tres Piedras

Rio Arriba — Thomas Graham (52), of Tres Piedras was arrested early Monday after New Mexico State Police agents served a search warrant on his home.


MA HUMAN TRAFFICKING CHARGED IN GJI

Today, a Bernalillo County grand jury indicted an individual who will be prosecuted by the New Mexico Attorney General's Office.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES OVER $320,000 IN PROJECTED ANNUAL SAVINGS FROM REDUCED STATE CELL PHONE USE

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that her administration has significantly reduced cell phone, BlackBerry, and air card use, resulting in over $320,000 in projected savings over calendar year 2011. The administration has reduced the number of wireless devices in agencies and departments throughout state government by a net total of 500 from December 2010 to September 2011. These administration-wide reductions, along with a more efficient approach to pooling wireless plans, are projected to total $320,412 in savings by the end of 2011.


PRC to Hold Public Hearing on PNM Payment Center Closures

SANTA FE— The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) will hold a public hearing Dec. 7 to address concerns surrounding Public Service Company of New Mexico’s (PNM) recent proposal to close eight of its payment center locations across the state.


Albuquerque Career Fair (December 1, 2011) UPDATE

ALBUQUERQUE: Choice Career Fairs is holding a career fair to give job seekers the opportunity to connect with local employers.


Bingaman: New Mexico Receives $34 Million Grant to Create Health Care Marketplace

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today announced that New Mexico has been awarded $34.2 million to help develop a health care marketplace– known as a health care "exchange." The exchange is one of the key provisions of the health insurance reform law, which in 2014 will expand health care access to millions of Americans who currently do not have health insurance.


ICY EAGLE NEST LAKE CLOSED TO BOATING, OPEN FOR BANK FISHING

EAGLE NEST -- Eagle Nest Lake is half-covered with ice and is closed to boating for the season, the Department of Game and Fish and New Mexico State Parks announced Friday.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES AWARD OF HEALTH INSURANCE EXCHANGE GRANT

Grant Will Help New Mexico Develop and Establish an Exchange
SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that New Mexico has been awarded a $34.2 million grant by the federal Health and Human Services (HHS) Department to help establish an affordable health insurance exchange in the state.


State Police seeking information in El Rancho triple homicide

Santa Fe — New Mexico State Police is seeking the assistance of anyone who might have information that could help solve a triple homicide which occurred on Father’s Day 2011.


NEW MEXICO FISHING REPORT

This fishing report, provided by the Department of Game and Fish, has been generated from the best information available from area officers, anglers, guides and local businesses. Conditions may vary as stream, lake and weather conditions alter fish and angler activities.


PEARCE REMINDS CONSTITUENTS OF DECEMBER 7TH DEADLINE FOR MEDICARE PART D ENROLLMENT AND CHANGES

Washington, DC (November 29, 2011) Congressman Steve Pearce reminds all those wishing to make changes or enroll in Medicare Part D that the deadline is approaching.


Economic Development Department Offering New Mexico 9000 Training Classes

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Economic Development Department, in collaboration with the New Mexico Manufacturing Extension Partnership, is offering New Mexico 9000 training classes to prepare New Mexico businesses for ISO 9001 Certification.


SFCC Art Exhibition: "Dialog in the Arts III: An Exhibition by Teachers and their Students"

Exhibit opens Friday, December 2 at SFCC's Visual Arts Gallery
SANTA FE, NM - Santa Fe Community College's School of Arts and Design Visual Arts Gallery presents "Dialog in the Arts III: An Exhibition by Teachers and their Students," a selection of artwork by faculty and students from Santa Fe and New Mexico area high schools and colleges including the MASTERS Program charter school, the New Mexico School for the Arts, Rio Rancho High School, the Institute of American Indian Arts, the Santa Fe University of Arts and Design and SFCC. The exhibition runs from Dec. 2, 2011 through Jan. 23, 2012.


AG Obtains 96-Count Indictment for Medicaid Fraud

(ALBUQUERQUE)----Attorney General Gary King's Medicaid Fraud & Elder Abuse Division will prosecute Raymond Eichwald, of Albuquerque, on 96 counts of Medicaid fraud.


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE ELEVATES LIZARD LISTING ISSUE TO SECRETARY SALAZAR

Continues Effort to Protect New Mexico Jobs from Washington’s Heavy-Handed Regulations
Washington, DC (November 28, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce and 17 other Members of the U.S. House of Representatives submitted a bipartisan letter to Ken Salazar, the Secretary of the Interior, opposing the proposed listing of the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard (DSL) under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The letter also calls for at least a six-month delay of a listing decision to gather more credible science and to allow for current conservation efforts to enroll additional participants and grow its private funding base.


Suspected Child Predator Indicted After Undercover Sting

APD Makes Bust--AG Prosecutes
(ALBUQUERQUE)---Attorney General Gary King's office will prosecute 31-year old Christpher A. White, of Edgewood, NM, who was indicted today in Albuquerque on charges including sexual exploitation of children by prostitution and attempted human trafficking.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES APPROVAL OF FEDERAL DISASTER DECLARATION FOR AUGUST FLOODING

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that the Obama Administration has approved the state’s request for a federal disaster declaration due to recent flooding in Cibola and Sandoval Counties, as well as Acoma and Santa Clara Pueblos. This will make federal funds available to help local and tribal governments recover from the flooding sustained from August 19th to August 24th.


Attorney General Spearheads Foreclosure Law Effort

Tells Las Cruces Community Group He’ll Ask for Governor’s Help
(LAS CRUCES)---Attorney General Gary King is renewing efforts to bring a new law before the New Mexico Legislature that will help protect homeowners facing loss of their homes to foreclosure.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES OVER $800,000 IN ANNUAL SAVINGS TO NEW MEXICO TAXPAYERS

Administration Identifies Lease Modification Opportunities for State Agencies
SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that her administration has identified over $800,000 in cost savings that will result from modifying, consolidating, and terminating leases on offices that house state agencies and other entities. The General Services Department has completed eight lease modifications on state offices in Albuquerque and in Santa Fe totaling $819,000 in annual savings with an additional $164,000 in annual savings anticipated from lease modifications currently in progress.


AG’s Internet Crimes Against Children Unit on Alert

Pedobear Sightings Concern Local Law Enforcement
(ALBUQUERQUE)---Attorney General Gary King says depictions of a cartoon-like bear that is linked to pedophiles could be an indication of increased child sex offender activity in the Albuquerque area.


GOVERNOR SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER TO ACTIVATE UNEMPLOYMENT FUND COUNCIL

Council Charged with Formulating Policies to Help Ensure Long-Term Stability and Solvency of Unemployment Insurance Fund, Take Politics Out of the Management of the Fund
SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that she has signed an executive order to activate an unemployment fund advisory council in order to formulate policies that will help to ensure the long-term stability and solvency of the state’s unemployment insurance trust fund. The council, which was created by law in 1959, has been inactive for roughly 30 years as the management of the state’s unemployment insurance fund – including the setting and changing of contribution rates paid by businesses - has been dictated solely through the legislative process.


Real Estate Appraisal Program Passes Federal Audit For The First Time In State`s History

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department today announced that the Real Estate Appraisal Program passed a federal audit for the first time in the State’s history, making it fully compliant with all federal guidelines governing every aspect of the appraisal program.


Drunk Driver Arrested for 8th DWI

Albuquerque — State Police arrested Joseph Tenorio (45) early Sunday morning near the intersection of I-25 and Montgomery in Albuquerque. Tenorio has seven previous DWI arrests, five of which had convictions.


DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY EARNS NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR SMART ROADSIDE INSPECTION SYSTEM PROGRAM

Washington, D.C. — The Roadway Safety Foundation (RSF) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) today recognized the New Mexico Department of Public Safety’s “Smart Roadside Inspection System” program with a National Roadway Safety Award for its efforts to make commercial vehicle enforcement more efficient and effective.


First Female Indicted Under NM's Human Trafficking Law

Repeat Offender Committed Crimes in Three States
(ALBUQUERQUE)---New Mexico Attorney General Gary King's Border Violence Division reports 33-year-old Heather Brannon has been indicted by an Albuquerque grand jury with Two Counts of Human Trafficking and Two Counts Promoting Prostitution. Brannon is the first woman in New Mexico to be charged under the 2008 Human Trafficking law.


Business as Usual at Expo NM, Missed Opportunity at State Fairgrounds

Santa Fe - “Today’s actions by the state fair commission to approve the Downs 25 year land deal at our fairgrounds represents a huge missed opportunity to create a true pride point for our city and state. My constituents from surrounding areas and I are deeply disappointed that despite all past troubles and challenges outlined in the Audit, the commission voted to perpetuate the status quo at Expo NM,” stated Senator Tim Keller (SD-17).


SFCC School of Arts and Design presents Performing Arts Winter Showcase

SFCC School of Arts and Design Performing Arts Winter Showcase is a dancing and singing celebration by students and faculty at SFCC


They Did It Again…Dems Attack Their Own

Will They Return Downs Money?
ALBUQUERQUE, NM - Once again, the Democratic Party of New Mexico has decided to go on the attack against their own. In a shameless and baseless attack, DPNM tries to smear Governor Martinez for the state fair commission approving a competitively bid lease for the Downs at Expo.


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE STATEMENT ON SUPER COMMITTEE IMPACT

Washington, DC (November 21, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following response after the super committee announced that it was unable to reach a compromise:


Santa Fe County Closed November 24 and November 25 in Observance of Thanksgiving

Santa Fe, NM – November 21, 2011 – Santa Fe County Offices and Solid Waste Transfer Stations will be closed on Thursday, November 24, 2011 and Friday, November 25, 2011 in observance of Thanksgiving.


ERB Adopts Proposal to Change Retirement Benefits

Santa Fe – During a special board meeting held this morning, the Educational Retirement Board (ERB) adopted a proposal to reduce the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) by 12.5% for all current and future retirees. The ERB COLA is based on the change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and typically begins the year a retiree turns age 65.


NEW MEXICO SCHOOLS RECEIVE GRANT TO BEGIN GROUNDBREAKING MENTORSHIP PROGRAM IN 40 STRUGGLING SCHOOLS

State Will Also Create New Website for Best Practices
SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that the New Mexico Public Education Department (PED) will receive $460,000 from the Daniels Fund to help the state’s 40 lowest-performing schools. The funds will be used to pair leaders in these schools with those from the top 40 performing schools in a mentorship program. The idea is simple: to share the practices from successful schools with those that are struggling. The innovative program will also provide a stipend of up to $3,000 for each participating school leader.


A Good Goodbye Awarded Best of Show in 2011 NM Book Awards

A Good Goodbye: Funeral Planning for Those Who Don't Plan to Die by Gail Rubin won the 2011 Best of Show Award from the New Mexico Book Awards. The book also won in the Family Issues category and was a finalist in four other categories.


Elephant Butte Lake State Park Extends RFP Deadline for Concession Activities To December 29, 2011

SANTA FE, NM – New Mexico State Parks Division announces Elephant Butte Lake State Park has extended its request for proposals to provide services in the 5,000 square foot restaurant building at the park’s Damsite Area in Sierra County for the purpose of establishing, operating, and maintaining a restaurant. It is anticipated that the restaurant will remain in its current location.


AAA New Mexico Announces Significant Expansion of Online Savings: 'AAA Club Rewards'

ALBUQUERQUE, NM, Nov 21, 2011 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) -- Just in time for Black Friday, Cyber Monday and the entire holiday shopping season, AAA New Mexico has launched AAA Club Rewards -- a free online shopping program for members that provides significant savings at more than 30,000 participating merchants, along with daily deals and points that can be redeemed for money off future purchases.


NEWS CONFERENCE

Attorney General Gary King joins community organization CAFé and other interested parties TODAY at 11:30 am in Las Cruces for a news conference to discuss legislation designed to help New Mexico homeowners address the growing threat of mortgage foreclosures.


NMDOT, MADD New Mexico and NMSP kick off Holiday Season with Winter Superblitz

Announcement of New Mexico’s Rating for Anti-Drunk Driving Efforts
ALBUQUERQUE— The New Mexico Department of Transportation Traffic Safety Director Michael Sandoval and Mothers Against Drunk Driving Executive Director Lora Lee Ortiz, alongside with Law Enforcement today kicked off the holiday season Winter Superblitz.


SFCC’s 22nd Annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair

Saturday, December 3, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Original Artworks from Across the State, Free admission, free parking
SANTA FE, NM – One hundred of the region’s finest artists and craftspeople from across the state will gather to sell their creations during Santa Fe Community College’s Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair, to be held 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 3 in the Main Hallway at SFCC, 6401 Richards Ave. Admission and parking are free.


CenturyLink’s Regional Market Sales Group (RMG) hires 4 new Account Sales Executives for New Mexico

CenturyLink, Inc. (NYSE: CTL) has added 4 new employees to it Regional Markets Sales Group in New Mexico. Eddie Medina, Robbin Dunham, Jaime Gutierrez and Ivan Ramos have been named as Acquisition Sales Executives. They will be focused on providing solutions to the telecommunication needs of businesses across the state of New Mexico.


Federal Jury Finds Las Cruces Man Guilty of Killing Federal Witness


PEARCE: UNFORTUNATELY PARTY POLITICS STILL SEEM TO PRECEDE ECONOMIC SOLUTIONS

House of Representatives Vote on Balanced Budget Amendment Fails
Washington, DC (November 18, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted in favor of H.J. Res. 2, a Balanced Budget Amendment (BBA) introduced by Rep. Goodlatte (VA-06) and cosponsored by Rep. Pearce. The BBA missed the 2/3 majority votes it needed to pass the House of Representatives.


NEWS CONFERENCE

Attorney General Gary King joins community organization CAFé and other interested parties Monday, Nov. 21 at 11:30am in Las Cruces for a news conference to discuss legislation designed to help New Mexico homeowners address the growing threat of mortgage foreclosures.


U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Joins Partners to Celebrate Start of Middle Rio Grande Restoration Project

ALBUQUERQUE – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and six partners will gather at Albuquerque’s Tingley Beach Nov. 18 at 1 P.M. to conduct a ground breaking ceremony to celebrate the beginning of construction of the Middle Rio Grande Restoration project. The project will restore approximately 916 acres of native Bosque (riparian cottonwood forest) along a 26-mile stretch of the Middle Rio Grande between Isleta Pueblo and the northern border of Sandia Pueblo.


Two dozen CYFD adoptions to be finalized Friday

Albuquerque, NM — Twenty six CYFD foster kids in Albuquerque will seal the deal with their “Forever Families” on Friday as New Mexico celebrates National Adoption Month.


Governor to Attend Naturalization Ceremony Tomorrow in Albuquerque

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will attend a naturalization ceremony for 180 new United States citizens tomorrow morning at the Albuquerque Convention Center. Governor Martinez will address the ceremony after immigrants from 38 different countries take an oath of allegiance administered by U.S. District Judge James O. Browning. According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, approximately 690,000 immigrants became naturalized U.S. citizens during Fiscal Year 2011.


Bipartisan Bill Would Bring Generic Drugs to Market Sooner, Saving Americans Millions of Dollars in Health Care Costs

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jeff Bingaman (NM), David Vitter (LA), Sherrod Brown (OH) and Jeff Merkley (OR) today introduced bipartisan legislation that will help generic manufacturers bring high-quality, lower-priced prescription medications to market in a more timely fashion. Enacting the bill is expected to save American consumers and the federal government hundreds of millions of dollars and level the playing field among generic manufacturers.


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE CONNECTS WITH CONSTITUENTS ON ECONOMY

Telephone Town Hall Provides Forum for Effective Constituent Interaction
Washington, DC (November 17, 2011) Congressman Steve Pearce held a telephone town hall meeting on Tuesday night. He reached out to over 63,000 constituents in New Mexico and connected with 33,000 to take questions and address concerns related to the national economy, jobs, and how it affects New Mexican families.


New Mexico State Land Office Earns Over $5 Million during Oil and Gas Lease Sale

$5 Million during Oil and Gas Lease Sale
(SANTA FE, New Mexico) – The New Mexico State Land Office earned more than $5 million for beneficiaries during its monthly oil and gas lease sale held Nov.15 in Santa Fe.


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE VOTES TO PROTECT FREEDOMS

Co-Sponsors and Supports the National Right-to-Carry Reciprocity Act
Washington, DC (November 16, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce, along with his colleagues in the House of Representatives, voted to pass H.R. 822, the National Right-to-Carry Reciprocity Act. The National Right-to-Carry Reciprocity Act would allow a person with the right to carry a concealed firearm in his or her state the right to carry it in any other state with a concealed carry permit law, as long as they obey the laws and regulations of that state. H.R. 822 passed the House of Representatives today, and will be sent to the Senate for consideration.


Heinrich Joins House Colleagues to Introduce Campaign Finance Constitutional Amendment

Legislation is a companion to Senate Resolution that empowers Congress to regulate campaign finance
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Martin Heinrich (NM-1) joined Representatives Betty Sutton (OH-13), Jim McDermott (WA-07), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), and Jesse Jackson Jr. (IL-02) to introduce an amendment to the U.S. Constitution that would authorize Congress to regulate the raising and spending of money for federal political campaigns, including independent expenditures, and allow states to regulate such spending at their individual levels.


PRC Vote Cuts Expedited Filing Fees for NM Businesses in Half

SANTA FE—The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) recently announced it will reduce by half expedited filing costs for businesses registering with its Corporations Division. The change will become effective Nov. 30.


Arthur “Dinty” Romero Tip-Off Classic To Host 2011 State Champs

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The New Mexico Activities Association Foundation is excited to host the Arthur “Dinty” Romero Tip-Off Classic at The Pit on Friday, November 18, 2011.


Luján: Roosevelt County Telephone Cooperative to Receive $12 Million to Enhance Broadband Network

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico’s Third District highlighted a recent announcement by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack that 28 telephone utilities, including one in New Mexico, will receive funding to build, expand, and improve broadband in rural areas.


Albuquerque Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Child Pornography Offense

ALBUQUERQUE—This afternoon in federal court, Robert W. Schmidt, 55, of Albuquerque, entered a guilty plea to transportation of a visual depiction of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct under a plea agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.


Rio Grande Nature Center Hosts Exhibit for Joining Hands

A Celebration Of Our Community
ALBUQUERQUE, NM – The Rio Grande Nature Center State Park and the Alvarado Gardens Neighborhood Association invite the public to an opening celebration of our community with a project called Joining Hands on Saturday, November 19, 2011 from 3:30 - 6:00 P.M., at the Education Building. The photographic exhibition, funded by a grant from Bernalillo County Neighborhood Outreach Grant program, will showcase photographic portraits of neighbor’s hands, in a goodwill gesture to bring the state park and neighbors together with the recent inauguration of the new Education Building at the Nature Center.


Traffic crash claims life of New Mexico man

Quay County- Gary Reeves (72) of House, New Mexico died yesterday afternoon in a single vehicle rollover crash on State Road 252.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES UPCOMING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MEETING WITH MEXICAN GOVERNORS

Meeting to Be held in Santa Fe on January 12th
SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that she will host five northern and central Mexico governors in Santa Fe in January to discuss the further implementation of economic development strategies involving the five Mexican states and New Mexico. Governor Martinez has committed to working with the governors of Chihuahua, Durango, Sinaloa, Zacatecas, and Nayarit to develop infrastructure projects that will establish New Mexico as a key trade corridor between the two countries.


AG King Urges Feds to Limit Booze in Binge-in-a-Can Drinks


AG King Urges Feds to Limit Booze in "Binge-in-a-Can" Drinks

Federal Proposed Legal Settlement Could be Stronger
(SANTA FE)---Attorney General Gary King is asking the Federal Trade Commission to beef up its pending settlement with Phusion Projects, LLC regarding its deceptive marketing of the flavored malt beverage "Four Loko" in super-sized 12% alcohol/23.5 ounce cans.


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE AWARDED A+ RATING ON LABOR SCORECARD

Competitive Enterprise Institute Honors Pearce on Pro-Worker, Pro-Jobs Stance
Washington, DC (November 16, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following response in regards to receiving a perfect score on Competitive Enterprise Institute’s (CEI) Labor Scorecard:


NMDOT, NMSP, and MADD to Co-Host News Conference on “Winter Superblitz” in Albuquerque

The New Mexico Department of Transportation, New Mexico State Police and Mothers Against Drunk Driving to co-host news conference on “Winter Superblitz” Operation DWI and Operation Buckle Down.


Media event scheduled at Tingley Beach for Friday

(Albuquerque, N.M. – Nov. 16, 2011) Today, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Albuquerque District invites media to learn about several Middle Rio Grande habitat restoration projects at a ground breaking ceremony at Tingley Beach on Friday, Nov. 18. Senator Pete Domenici will be the keynote speaker.


The New Mexico Film Office Announces Feature Film, Jackie, Shooting in New Mexico

SANTA FE —New Mexico Film Office director Nick Maniatis announced today that Jackie, produced by Hans de Weers, Reinout Oerlemans and Erwin Godschalk of Dutch company Eyeworks Film and Television Drama B.V., is filming in and around western New Mexico. Production begins mid- November through December.


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE CALLS FOR ATTORNEY GENERAL HOLDER’S RESIGNATION

Cover Up of Operation Fast and Furious Shows No Regard for Government Accountability
Washington, DC (November 15, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce called for the resignation of Attorney General Eric Holder. During Operation Fast and Furious, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) allowed weapons to enter Mexico. Multiple ATF agents have testified that they were ordered to let the weapons go, even though they requested permission to seize them. Last week, the former US Attorney for Arizona admitted that he leaked confidential information to the press about ATF agents who blew the whistle on the failed gun running operation.


Santa Fe County Hosts 2012 Community Development Block Grant Program Public Hearings

Santa Fe, NM – November 15, 2011 - Santa Fe County will host a series of public input meetings (see below) to discuss community development needs and suggestions for possible community projects that may be eligible to receive Community Development Block Grant (CDGB) Program funding and to report on past CDGB program activities.


Santa Fe County Celebrates Geography Awareness Week with Community Adventures

Santa Fe, NM- November 15, 2011 – This year Wednesday, November 16 is GIS Day, a special day to celebrate Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Santa Fe County will celebrate Geography Awareness week, which is the week of November 14 with several “Adventures” for the community to participate in. The “Adventures” follow this year’s nation theme of “The Adventure in Your Community”.


GOVERNOR KICKS OFF FIRST PILOT LIGHTING TRAINING CLASS AT NEW MEXICO NATIONAL GUARD

PREP Training Will Allow Expanded Pilot Relighting Efforts in the Event of a Widespread Gas Outage
SANTA FE –Governor Susana Martinez joined roughly 250 members of the New Mexico National Guard today for the inaugural training course for New Mexico’s Pilot Relight Emergency Program (PREP).


Fugitive Extradited By AG's Office Now Behind Bars

San Miguel County Man Committed Sex Crimes Against a Child
(ALBUQUERQUE)---New Mexico Attorney General Gary King's office reports that fugitive Raul Chavez, of Las Vegas, N.M., admits to Criminal Sexual Contact of a Minor in 2004 that puts him in jail for nine years.


Corrective Action Taken on Missing Evidence

Santa Fe — The Department of Public Safety, Forensic Laboratory Bureau recently discovered that five pieces of evidence were missing from two separate burglary cases. The evidence had been seized by Farmington Police Department and the Santa Fe Police Department during their investigations.


NEW MEXICO FISHING REPORT

This fishing report, provided by the Department of Game and Fish, has been generated from the best information available from area officers, anglers, guides and local businesses. Conditions may vary as stream, lake and weather conditions alter fish and angler activities.


AG`s Office Wins Major Medicaid Fraud Cases

Las Cruces Corporation and 3 Individuals Found Guilty
(LAS CRUCES)---Prosecutors from Attorney General Gary King's office were successful obtaining guilty verdicts against a Las Cruces Medicaid provider and four individuals on Medicaid Fraud and other charges.


Governor to Attend Inaugural Pilot Relight Emergency Program Training Course

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will speak to members of the New Mexico National Guard in Santa Fe today at the inaugural training course for New Mexico’s Pilot Relight Emergency Program (PREP). The PREP course is the result of legislation passed during the 2011 regular legislative session (HB 652), which provided for the creation of a program that would allow New Mexicans to become certified pilot relighting technicians during governor-declared states of emergency, such as the large-scale natural gas outage that impacted numerous New Mexico communities earlier this year. Over 200 National Guard troops will become certified today, and the training course will be available to first responders and others throughout New Mexico.


Three Arrested After High Speed Pursuit

Quay County – State Police arrested Gilbert Moreno (27), Jason Decarlo (23) and Samantha Farmer (30) this afternoon after a vehicle pursuit. Moreno and Decarlo fled from NMSP in a vehicle that had been stolen out of Albuquerque the day before.


PEARCE: PREVIOUS CONGRESS OVERSTEPPED ITS BOUNDARIES

Supreme Court to Determine Constitutionality of Obama Health Care Law
Washington, DC (November 14, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement regarding the Supreme Court’s decision to consider whether or not the Obama Administration’s healthcare law is constitutional:


SFCC President Sheila Ortego Announces Retirement

Board credits sixth President as visionary leader
Santa Fe, NM, November 14, 2011— Santa Fe Community College President Sheila Ortego has announced she will retire at the end of August 2012. Now in her sixth year as president of the college, Dr. Ortego told employees of the college today she remains devoted to the mission of SFCC, but faces increasing responsibilities as a caregiver for her elderly mother.


SFCC`s School of Arts and Design Presents Winter Choral Concert Seasonal Music 2011

Friday and Saturday, Dec. 2 and 3; Free concert showcases SFCC Chorus and Chamber Singers
Winter Choral Concert of Seasonal Music 2011
The SFCC Chorus and Chamber Singers will sing a variety of seasonal music celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah and Winter in several languages including Spanish, Latin, German and Swahili. The concert features large and small group musical presentations


ERB Final Listening Tour Schedule

Please joing Educational Retirement Board Members and Director Jan Goodwin as they present options for plan design changes that will foster future sustainability and solvency in the ERP Fund.


The Fight Against Human Trafficking Continues

As many of you already know, combating modern day slavery in the form of human trafficking has been a major focus of mine as New Mexico Attorney General.


Taos Townspeople Serve Those Who Have Served This Country

(TAOS, NEW MEXICO – November 11, 2011)– Today, hundreds of Taos residents converged on Taos Plaza to honor local veterans and to participate in a Sierra Club and Rocky Mountain Youth Corps-sponsored service project to beautify the public space. Citizens spruced up the plaza and broke ground for a memorial tree planting.


GOP Calls On Senator Keller To Disclose Potential Conflict Of Interest

Is Laguna a Paying Client of Senator's Firm?
ALBUQUERQUE, NM – On Friday, the Republican Party of New Mexico called on State Senator Tim Keller to disclose his full client list and state specifically whether the Pueblo of Laguna is a client of his firm, The Blue Stone Strategy Group.


GOVERNOR SEEKS FEDERAL DISASTER DECLARATION

FEMA Damage Assessment Teams Conclude Work, Uninsured Damages to Exceed $5.9 Million
SANTA FE – Today, Governor Susana Martinez announced that her Administration issued a letter to the Obama Administration requesting a federal disaster declaration in Sandoval and Cibola Counties, including the Pueblo of Acoma and the Pueblo of Santa Clara for flooding that occurred between August 19th and August 24th, 2011. A Presidentially Declared Disaster will make federal funds available to offset damages incurred to the state and local communities as a result of the flooding.


PEARCE: TODAY WE REMEMBER, WE SAY THANK YOU

Honors the Sacrifice of Veterans
Washington, DC (November 11, 2011) Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement for Veterans Day:


Joule Marks the Beginning of Biofuel Production in Hobbs with Construction Announcement

HOBBS, NM – Joule Unlimited Inc., a Cambridge, Massachusetts.-based company developing a technique to convert sunlight and waste CO2 into infrastructure-ready biofuels, held a construction announcement in Hobbs on Thursday to celebrate the next phase of its demonstration plant that is scheduled to begin operations in 2012.


Farmington Double Murder Conviction Upheld

AG`s Office Argues Case Before NM Supreme Court
(SANTA FE)---On behalf of the state, Attorney General Gary King’s office argued against Robert Fry’s appeal of his conviction for two murders in Farmington in 1996. The NM Supreme Court today affirmed those convictions.


SFCC Offers Spanish Study in Peru in June 2012

Free Information Session November 18
Learn Spanish in Cusco, Peru June 1-19, 2012. Free Information Session


GOVERNOR ISSUES PROCLAMATION TO COMMEMORATE VETERANS DAY

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that she has issued a proclamation commemorating tomorrow, November 11, as Veterans Day across New Mexico. Tomorrow, Governor Martinez will attend a Veterans Day Celebration at Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park in Angel Fire and visit patients at Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center in Albuquerque. A moment of silence in honor of the nation’s veterans will be observed at 11:00 a.m.


Temporary Water Pressure Interruption for La Cienega and Las Lagunitas Area Water Customers

Santa Fe, NM – November 10, 2011 - Santa Fe County would like to notify the water customers of La Cienega and Las Lagunitas that water service will be interrupted between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Tuesday, November 15 while crews complete the installation of a pressure reducing valve on the main transmission line. The Contractor will make every effort to reduce the length of service interruption.


CenturyLink Introduces Internet Basics for Low-Income Consumers

CenturyLink, a leading Internet service provider, also is offering affordable computers and free technology training through the Internet Basics program


Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park Observes Milestones for Veterans Day

Day Use and Camping Fees Waived at all New Mexico State Parks on Veterans Day for Veterans and Active-duty Military and Their Families
Angel Fire, NM – Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park was selected by the Veterans Day National Committee to serve as a Regional Observance site and will mark milestones on the 11th hour, 11th day, 11th month this Veterans Day, November 11, 2011. The ceremony starts at 11:00 a.m. in the amphitheater; patriotic music will be performed by the Cimarron High School band, and the New Mexico National Guard will have a Black Hawk UH60 helicopter on static display. Guest speakers for this special occasion honoring veterans include: Governor Susana Martinez, Senator Tom Udall, Major Warren Sponsler, United States Army and retired Warrant Officer Debra Herbst, United States Marine Corps.


Pair of Thieves Arrested with Eight Stolen Vehicles

Albuquerque/Los Lunas — State Police arrested Daimon Lanckriet (18) and Augustine Aquiar (26) in Albuquerque on Tuesday for eight counts of Unlawful Taking of Motor Vehicle along with Receiving or Transferring Stolen Vehicles, Possession of Burglary Tools and Tampering with Evidence. Both were taken into custody without incident during and after a traffic stop near the intersection of Broadway and Rio Bravo.


November 8 BCC Meeting Summary

Santa Fe – November 10, 2011 – Below is a summary of the actions taken by the Santa Fe Board of County Commissioners (BCC). All five of the Commissioners were present.


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE: WE CANNOT WASTE ANY MORE TIME

Foreclosures Jumped Seven Percent in October
Washington, D.C. (November 10, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement in regard to the Administration’s failing housing policies, as evidenced by foreclosure rates which rose 7 percent in October:


SFCC Celebrates America Recycles Day Nov. 15

Movies, exhibits part of event, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. November 15
SANTA FE, NM – One ton of plastic will greet participants of Santa Fe Community College’s Recycle Day Resource Fair, to be held 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, November 15 in the college’s Main Hallway, 6401 Richards Ave. Participants can gain information from organizations about recycling and other socially progressive topics. Among participating organizations are Earth Care International, the City of Santa Fe Solid Waste Management Agency, the Sierra Club and a variety of SFCC clubs. Whole Foods will be on hand with free cloth shopping bags and Java Joe’s will provide coffee.


OVER 300 JOB-SEEKERS ATTEND CONGRESSMAN PEARCE’S JOB FAIR

Job Fair in Silver City Helped Connect Businesses with Job Seekers
Silver City, NM (November 10, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce hosted his third job fair of the year in Silver City. Approximately thirty employers were present, and well over three hundred prospective employees attended throughout the day.


Sydney & Andrew Davis Foundation Donate $1 Million to the National Dance Institute New Mexico Hiland Theater Project

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Nov. 10, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Donation Made to Renovate, Complete and Support the Hiland Theater and NDI Programs in Albuquerque.


GOVERNOR TO PARTICIPATE IN VETERANS DAY CELEBRATIONS

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will take part in a Veterans Day Celebration at Vietnam Veterans Memorial State Park tomorrow in Angel Fire. Participants will observe a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m. and pay tribute to the service and sacrifice made by the men and women who have served their country as a member of the armed forces. United States Senator Tom Udall, Veterans Services Secretary Timothy Hale, Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Secretary-designate John Bemis, and numerous military dignitaries are also scheduled to attend.


Santa Fe County and the Galisteo Planning Committee Host Opens Houses for Galisteo Community Plan

Santa Fe, NM – November 10, 2011 – Santa Fe County and the Galisteo Planning Committee will host two open houses to gather input for the Galisteo Community Plan, which is nearing completion. The first open house will be held on Saturday, November 12 from 9 a.m. to noon and the second open house on Tuesday, November 15 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., both will be held at the Galisteo Community Center.


Murder Suspect Arrested

Albuquerque — State Police arrested Dumonta Terrell (18) in Albuquerque yesterday on a murder warrant out of Rock Island, Illinois. Terrell was taken into custody by State Police Tactical and Investigations Bureau personnel at a residence on Rosalind Street.


Day Use and Camping Fees Waived at all New Mexico State Parks on Veterans Day for Veterans and Active-duty Military and Their Families

SANTA FE, NM – New Mexico State Parks Division honors military veterans and current active duty military service members on Veterans Day, November 11, 2011, by waiving day-use and camping fees at all New Mexico state parks for veterans and active-duty military and their families.


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE: ACTIONS OF DOVER AFB MORTUARY ARE APALLING

Base Under Investigation for Burning Remains of Fallen Heroes
Washington, D.C. (November 9, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement in regards to allegations that Dover Air Force Base, the main port of entry for all dead American soldiers, mishandled body parts of fallen soldiers:


The New Mexico Partnership Launches Search for President and CEO

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Economic Develoment Partnership (NMEDP), the state of New Mexico’s business recruiting organization, launched its search today for president and chief executive officer.


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE HONORS AWARD WINNING NEW MEXICO MILITARY SERVICE DOGS

Owners from Las Cruces and Roswell, New Mexico
Washington, DC (November 9, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement in regards to two dogs, whose owners live in New Mexico, winning the 2011 American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards:


Second Annual Food Protection Alliance Conference

Challenges and Risks Addressing Food Defense
(Santa Fe) – The Second Annual New Mexico Food Protection Alliance Conference will be held in Albuquerque on November 8 and 9 at the Bernalillo County 4-H Center, 1510 Menaul Boulevard Northwest. The conference is designed to bring together stakeholders from multiple agencies to discuss food safety issues.


County Commission Defies Voters, Appoints Liberal Extremist To Fill Republican Seat

Democrats on the Bernalillo County Commission thumbed their noses at voters Tuesday by appointing Lisa Curtis, president of the liberal New Mexico Trial Lawyers Association, to the vacant seat in New Mexico’s 21st Senate District.


Yesterday's Board of County Commission (BCC) Meeting Broadcast

Santa Fe, NM – November 9, 2011- Yesterday’s Board of County Commission (BCC) meeting was not be available live on Comcast Channel 28 or Que Suave AM 810 due to a hardware short in the audio output.


The New Mexico Partnership Launches Search for President and CEO

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Economic Develoment Partnership (NMEDP), the state of New Mexico’s business recruiting organization, launched its search today for president and chief executive officer.


11/11/11 Veterans Day Ceremony and Day of Service

Join Rocky Mountain Youth Corps and the Sierra Club to honor and serve those who have served our nation. Participate in the ceremony to honor local Taos veterans, and stay for the service project, which is part of the Taos Beautification Project. The ceremony will include speeches by local Taos Veterans of the VFW, Pascual Maestas of the Rocky Mountain Youth Corps, and DC-based Sierra Club Apprentice, Mark Lemke. Lunch will be served to those who stay for the service project.


Bingaman: New Mexico Receives $434.5 Million in Royalty Payments for Energy Produced on Federal Lands

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today confirmed that New Mexico received $434.5 million in royalty payments in FY 2011 for energy production on federal lands in the state, an increase of $53.9 million from FY 2010. Only Wyoming received more royalties than New Mexico.


As Veterans Day Approaches, Heinrich Continues Fight to Create Jobs for Veterans

ALBUQUERQUE – With one-in-five veterans between the ages of 18 and 24 returning from Iraq and Afghanistan looking for work, U.S. Representative Martin Heinrich (NM-1) is focused on making sure our veterans have the necessary tools to navigate a difficult labor market and succeed in the civilian workforce.


Broadcast of Board of County Commissioners Meeting

Santa Fe, NM – November 8, 2011 ‐ We are currently experiencing audio issues during the broadcast of the Board of County Commissioners Meeting (BCC).


Free Financial & Medical Advice to Stop Potential Financial Abuse of the Elderly

SANTA FE – Elderly New Mexicans and their family members seeking financial or medical advice, and tips on how to protect themselves from financial schemes can do so this Thursday by calling financial advice hot lines. A team of physicians, financial planners and accountants will be on hand to offer free advice on these issues.


Santa Fe County Closed November 11 in Observance of Veterans Day

Santa Fe, NM – November 8, 2011 – Santa Fe County Offices and Solid Waste Transfer Stations will be closed on Friday, November 11, 2011 in observance of Veterans Day.


GOVERNOR APPOINTS DOUG HOWE TO PUBLIC REGULATION COMMISSION

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that she has appointed Doug Howe of Santa Fe to represent District Three on the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission. Howe is a professional in the energy sector who currently serves as a consultant to Cambridge Energy Research Associates (IHS CERA), a research and consulting company focused on regulatory, policy, environmental, and conservation issues. He will fill the seat vacated by former Commissioner Jerome Block, Jr., who resigned from his position on October 7.


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO SUPPORT VETERANS

Directs Study for Polytrauma Facility in Southeastern New Mexico
Washington, DC (November 7, 2011) Congressman Steve Pearce introduced legislation that will study the establishing of a veteran polytrauma rehabilitation center or network site in Fort Bayard, New Mexico.


NMDOT, NMSP, and DHSEM remind citizens to stay safe during winter storms in New Mexico

The New Mexico Department of Transportation, New Mexico State Police, Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management are reminding citizens to take necessary precautions to stay safe during the winter storms expected to hit New Mexico. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for parts of Northern New Mexico.


AGO ROAD SHOW TOMORROW

The New Mexico Attorney General's AGO Road Show makes a stop in Las Cruces TOMORROW, Wednesday, November 9, to offer "Sunshine Laws" Compliance presentations to community members at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum, 4100 Dripping Springs Road.


NEW MEXICO PARTICIPATES IN FIRST NATIONWIDE TEST OF THE EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM

SANTA FE, NM - Wednesday afternoon, November 9, at 12:00 PM MST, the federal government will conduct the first ever nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The test will last about 30 seconds. During this period, regularly scheduled television, radio, cable, and satellite shows will be interrupted as the system is being tested. This event is NOT a real emergency alert, it is only a test.


The New Mexico Film Office Announces Independent Film, Stars, Shooting in New Mexico

SANTA FE —Nick Maniatis, the New Mexico Film Office director, announced today, Stars, is filming an independent film in New Mexico. Stars, is shooting in Santa Fe, Espanola, Galisteo and Pecos. Production begins early November through late November.


William “Bill” Mattiace Named Executive Director of the New Mexico Border Authority

SANTA FE — New Mexico Economic Development Department Secretary Jon Barela announced today that William “Bill” Mattiace was named executive director of the New Mexico Border Authority. Mattiace, who was appointed as deputy director of the New Mexico Border Authority in July, will replace Jim Creek, who retired on November 4. The motion to name Mattiace as director was approved by the New Mexico Border Authority board during its meeting Monday.


ERB Listening Tour Info

The ERB Board of Trustees and Executive Staff are scheduled to continue to travel statewide until November 17 to present information on six possible retirement plan design change scenarios. ERB members and the general public will have the opportunity to submit their input to be taken into consideration by the Board. One of the six scenarios will be proposed during the 2012 NM Legislative Session.


Two Arrested in New Mexico After Kidnapping

Jesus Manuel Gallegos, 40, and Brandon Lawrence Jones, 34, have been arrested in connection with the kidnapping of an El Paso man who managed to get free in Clines Corners, N.M., on Sunday morning.


MainStreet Opening Applications for Communities to Affiliate with Downtown Revitalization Program

SANTA FE – The New Mexico MainStreet Program is opening applications for new communities to affiliate with the state’s downtown revitalization program, the Economic Development Department announced Monday.


The New Mexico Film Office Announces Feature Film, The Tin Star, Shooting in New Mexico

SANTA FE —Nick Maniatis, director of the New Mexico Film Office, announced today The Tin Star, a production of Warner Horizon Television/Turner Network Television, is filming a pilot episode of a western drama series in New Mexico. The Tin Star, shooting in Galisteo, La Cienega and Valle Calderas, began production in late October and will run through the beginning of November.


SFCC Film Program to Host Open House Friday, November 18, 6-8 p.m.

Public invited to explore start-to-finish of film production, film screenings and photo exhibit
SANTA FE, NM – Santa Fe Community College’s Film Program will host an information session, short film screening and “Behind the Scenes” photo exhibit opening on Friday, Nov. 18, 6-8 p.m. in the film, radio and television area of the college’s 500 wing. The public is invited. The gamut of film production, from the behind-the-scenes production to the final results, will be explored during the free event.


Filming to Take Place Around Santa Fe County


Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park Employee Chris Dawson Graduates In First Class Of Certified Zoo Horticulturists

CARLSBAD, NM – New Mexico State Parks Division and Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park congratulate employee Ms. Chris Dawson who graduated this fall from the Association of Zoological Horticulture. The 2011 fall graduates are the first to ever obtain certification in one of the industry’s most rapidly advancing disciplines.


AG King Joins Fight to Protect Information Technology

(ALBUQUERQUE)---New Mexico Attorney General Gary King has joined 38 state and territorial attorneys general to urge federal authorities to use their power to fight against foreign manufacturers who are using stolen software to illegally cut costs and unfairly compete with American companies.


AGO Counterfiet Check Data Base Has Been Updated


GOVERNOR NAMES GREGG MARCANTEL SECRETARY OF CORRECTIONS

Department Also Fills Three Key Warden Positions
SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that she has appointed Gregg Marcantel as Secretary of the New Mexico Corrections Department. Prior to his appointment, Marcantel was the Deputy Secretary for the Department of Public Safety and has served as the acting Deputy Secretary for the Corrections Department over the past nine weeks. Prior to joining the Martinez administration in June, Marcantel was a distinguished law enforcement officer with the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, the Bernalillo Police Department, and the United States Department of Justice.


SUMNER LAKE OPEN TO BOATING; FREE OF AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES


Former Employee of Los Alamos Physical Therapy Pleads Guilty to Stealing $160,000 from the Business

SANTA FE – A former employee of Jemez Physical Therapy in Los Alamos who stole over $160,000 to support her gambling addiction pleaded guilty to two counts each of embezzlement and tax evasion.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that she has made appointments to the National Hispanic Cultural Center Board of Directors, the New Mexico Livestock Board, the Military Base Planning Commission and the Interstate Stream Commission.


AG PROSECUTOR RECOGNIZED

According to MADD New Mexico, Bevacqua-Young is being recognized because of her outstanding work in the DWI field. She will be awarded Saturday evening at the 2011 Law Enforcement Recognition Event, "Honoring Heroes."


CenturyLink and Crime Stoppers establish reward of up to $1,000 for information directly leading to the arrest of anyone stealing the company's copper cable

Cable theft threatens the entire community
Albuquerque, New Mexico – CenturyLink, Inc. (NYSE: CTL) and Crime Stoppers want copper cable thieves brought to justice and are offering a reward up to $1,000 to help accomplish this. New Mexico citizens can claim the reward by reporting information that directly leads to the arrest of anyone stealing the company’s cable, primarily copper cable.


EPA, DOE Partner to Develop Renewable Energy on Potentially Contaminated Sites

Clean energy project aims to benefit local economies and create jobs
WASHINGTON –The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) are evaluating the feasibility of developing renewable energy production on Superfund, brownfields, and former landfill or mining sites. As part of the REPowering America’s Land Initiative, EPA is investing approximately $1 million for projects across the United States aiming to revitalize abandoned sites while protecting people’s health, the environment and providing economic benefits to local communities, including job creation.


Westerners Can't Wait

Despite Promise to Listen to “Every Good Proposal,” Obama Ignores Western Caucus Jobs Plan
Washington, D.C. – Congressional Western Caucus Chairman Steve Pearce (R-NM) and Senate Western Caucus Chairman John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) released the following statement in response to President Obama’s message that Americans “Can’t Wait” for a jobs plan from Congress:


AGO ROAD SHOW IN LAS CRUCES UPDATED AND DETAILED

The New Mexico Attorney General's AGO Road Show makes a stop in Las Cruces on Wednesday, November 9 to offer "Sunshine Laws" Compliance presentations to community members at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum, 4100 Dripping Springs Road.


Sustainable Land Development Code (SLDC) November Public Input Meeting Schedule

Santa Fe, NM – November 3, 2011- Santa Fe County will host the fourth set of community input meetings for the Sustainable Land Development Code (SLDC) Public Input Process to discuss Zoning and Density. County staff will meet with the public in various locations throughout Santa Fe County to obtain public input for the SLDC. Below is a full schedule of the November SLDC public input meetings, each meeting will last approximately two hours.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF TOP TWO WATER OFFICIALS

Governor Names Scott Verhines as State Engineer, Appoints Estevan Lopez as Director of Interstate Stream Commission
SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that she has made appointments to New Mexico’s two top water management positions. Governor Martinez has appointed Scott Verhines of Albuquerque to the position of State Engineer and has named Estevan Lopez of Peñasco Director of the Interstate Stream Commission.


New Mexicans Applaud Administration`s `America`s Great Outdoors` Report

Albuquerque (November 3, 2011) – The newly-formed New Mexico Outdoors Coalition applauds the “America’s Great Outdoors” state report for New Mexico released today by the U.S. Department of the Interior. The report identifies two project priorities for action in New Mexico: establishment of the Middle Rio Grande National Wildlife Refuge (Price’s Dairy) and construction of a trail linking Aztec Ruins National Monument with the City of Aztec.


NMDOT Asks for Final Comments on State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP)

The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) is giving the public a final opportunity to comment on the first amendment to the State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) that will serve as a four-year plan for the state’s federal aid highway program. The NMDOT has posted the 2012-2015 STIP amendment to the internet asking for final public comment until December 3. In addition, NMDOT will be soliciting public comment in conjunction with the State Transportation Commission meeting in Fort Sumner, on Wednesday, November 16, starting at 1:30 p.m., located at Fort Sumner Community Center, 3565 Billy the Kid Road.


NM Legislative Scholarship

A White Paper from GPSA
More than 68,000 students have attended college on the Legislative Lottery Scholarship since it was started in 1996. The scholarship pays tuition for New Mexican students who enroll in a New Mexico public college or university directly out of high school. Students still have to pay for other college expenses, such as books, fees and housing. To qualify for a scholarship, New Mexico students must enroll in a public college or university in the state the semester after their high school graduation, attend full time and maintain a 2.5 point grade-point average.


New Mexico National Guard to Break Ground on New Farmington Readiness Center on Friday

Farmington, N.M. - The New Mexico National Guard Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Kenny C. Montoya, will join state and local officials to break ground on the remodeling of the Farmington Readiness Center, 1101 West Navajo, Friday, Nov. 4, 2011 at 11:00am.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that she has made appointments to, the State Workforce Development Board, the Employers Mutual Company Board of Directors, the State Library Commission, the Advisory Council on Workers’ Compensation and Occupational Disease Disablement, the Early Learning Advisory Council, the State Parole Board and the Veteran’s Advisory Board.


AGO Road Show Heads to Las Cruces with 7 Presentations

The New Mexico Attorney General's AGO Road Show makes a stop in Las Cruces on Wednesday, November 9 to offer "Sunshine Laws" Compliance presentations to community members at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum, 4100 Dripping Springs Road.


GOVERNOR HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANT CAPITAL PROJECTS IN SANTA TERESA

Water Supply Improvements and Wastewater Treatment Facility Will Support Border Region Businesses, Help Attract Jobs to New Mexico
SANTA TERESA - Governor Susana Martinez visited Santa Teresa this afternoon to discuss two important capital projects that will improve vital infrastructure and support economic development efforts in the border region. The two projects were included in the $86 million capital outlay bill that passed during September's special legislative session. Governor Martinez visited Monarch Litho, Inc., a commercial printing company with facilities in both Santa Teresa and Juarez, to meet with employees and discuss the capital projects and other efforts to create a friendlier business environment and promote job creation along New Mexico's southern border. She was joined by Economic Development Department Secretary-designate Jon Barela as well as members of the Border Industrial Association.


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE REAFFIRMS SUPPORT FOR VETERANS


MEDIA ADVISORY----AWARD WINNING PROSECUTOR RECOGNIZED SATURDAY

According to MADD New Mexico, Bevacqua-Young is being recognized because of her outstanding work in the DWI field. She will be awarded Saturday evening at the 2011 Law Enforcement Recognition Event, "Honoring Heroes."


MEDIA ADVISORY: AGO Road Show In Las Cruces


The New Mexico Attorney General's AGO Road Show makes a stop in Las Cruces on Wednesday, November 9 to offer "Sunshine Laws" Compliance presentations to community members at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum, 4100 Dripping Springs Road.


Rep. Stapleton Collects Illegal Wages; Taxpayers Foot The Bill

RPNM Calls on Rep. Stapleton to Return Ill Gotten Gains
ALBUQUERQUE, NM – “It is shameful that New Mexico taxpayers’ money is being irresponsibly and unethically wasted by Representative Sheryl Williams Stapleton who can’t keep her hand out of the government cookie jar. Representative Stapleton is willing to break the rules for her own financial gain while shortchanging New Mexico’s kids,” said Republican Party of New Mexico executive director Bryan Watkins. “Taxpayers and New Mexico families deserve better than Representative Stapleton cheating the system and circumventing the rules for personal gain.”


Legacy Reserves LP Announces Acquisitions of Permian Basin and Wyoming Assets for a Total of $72.5 Million

MIDLAND, Texas, Nov 1, 2011 (GlobeNewswire via COMTEX) -- Legacy Reserves LP ("Legacy") /quotes/zigman/104551/quotes/nls/lgcy LGCY +0.28% today announced it has entered into two agreements to purchase oil and natural gas properties in the Permian Basin and Wyoming for a combined purchase price of approximately $72.5 million. The properties are located in Lea, Eddy and Chaves Counties, New Mexico, have net daily production of approximately 1.26 MMcf of natural gas and 110 barrels of oil, and are 100% operated.


AAA New Mexico Poll: High Gas Prices, Economy Affect Holiday Shopping Budgets and Behaviors

ALBUQUERQUE, NM, Nov 02, 2011 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) -- High gas prices are weighing on most New Mexico consumers' minds as they plan their holiday shopping lists, according to AAA New Mexico's Third Annual Holiday Shopping Poll.


Senators Introduce Constitutional Amendment to Clean Up Campaign Finance System

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Michael Bennet today introduced a constitutional amendment to grant Congress the authority to regulate the campaign finance system. Among other important reforms, the amendment would allow Congress to correct the controversial Citizens United v. FEC Supreme Court ruling on campaign finance that has the effect of allowing virtually unlimited corporate and special interest spending in elections. Joining Udall and Bennet as original cosponsors of the legislation are Sens. Tom Harkin, Dick Durbin, Chuck Schumer, Sheldon Whitehouse and Jeff Merkley.


Lujn Applauds Obamas Efforts to Spur Job Creation by Moving Technology from the Lab to the Marketplace Faster

Santa Fe, NM – Congressman Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico’s Third District applauded the Obama Administration’s latest effort to spur job creation and strengthen the global competitiveness of America’s businesses. On Friday, the President directed federal agencies with research laboratories to increase the rate of technology transfer from laboratories to the commercial marketplace and to accelerate the economic and societal impact from federal research and development investments.


Officer Involved shooting in Otero County

The New Mexico State Police report that a man was shot as he aledgedly tried to ram 2 Otero County Sheriffs cars while attemting to flee from the Our Lady of Guadaulpe Church on U. S. Hwy 70 at Bent, NM shortly after 9 PM last Night (Tuesday 110211).  The officers had answered a call to a home in Bend on a domestic disturbance call.  The suspect had fled the home by the time deputies had arrived.  They located him at the church.  As their units approched his vehicle in the parking lot, he sped toward them.  Otero County Deputy Geraldene Martinez fired multiple rounds fom her service rifle (an AR-15).  The bullets penetrated the vehicles windshield with one or more shots striking the suspect.  The man, who has as yet, not been identified, was first transported to Gerald Champion Memorial Medical Center in Alamogordo, then, was airlifted to the University Medical Center in El Paso where, at the time of the report, he was still being treated.


Governor to Participate in New Mexico-Chihuahua Commission Meeting TODAY and Thursday

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will participate in a meeting of the New Mexico-Chihuahua Commission tomorrow and Thursday in Las Cruces with Chihuahua Governor Cesar Duarte and representatives from both states. The Commission is an effort to encourage trade and economic development on both sides of the border. This year’s meeting will include worktable discussions as well as a tour of industrial developments in and around Santa Teresa. Governor Martinez and Governor Duarte will hold two media availabilities during the two-day meeting. The first will follow tomorrow’s border tour and the second will be at the meeting’s conclusion on Thursday.


Governor to Discuss Capital Outlay Projects TODAY in Santa Teresa

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will visit Santa Teresa tomorrow to discuss important capital outlay projects that will help to boost the border region economy and attract businesses to Southern New Mexico. The Governor will be at Monarch Litho, Inc., a commercial printing company, to meet with employees and discuss two water projects funded by the $86 million capital outlay bill that passed during September’s special legislative session – one that will improve the area’s water supply and distribution system and another to design and construct a wastewater treatment facility serving the Santa Teresa Port of Entry, nearby industrial areas, and surrounding communities in Doña Ana County. Governor Martinez will be joined by Economic Development Department Secretary-designate Jon Barela and Republican and Democratic legislators from Southern New Mexico.


Deadly Weekend Due to Lack of Seatbelt Use

Santa Fe — Since Thursday of last week, the New Mexico State Police has investigated six fatal traffic crashes, resulting in eight fatalities. The failure to wear seatbelts has been proven to lower the risk of dying in a crash. The survivability rate of vehicle occupants involved in these crashes would have been greatly improved if seatbelts were used.


NEW MEXICO FISHING REPORT

This fishing report, provided by the Department of Game and Fish, has been generated from the best information available from area officers, anglers, guides and local businesses. Conditions may vary as stream, lake and weather conditions alter fish and angler activities.


EPA Awards Universities Grants to Help Design Sustainable Technologies

College students to design projects to help environment and economy
(DALLAS – November 1, 2011) The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded People, Prosperity and the Planet (P3) Phase I grants for the 2011-2012 school year. The grants were awarded to 45 teams of college and university students across the country, including four teams from universities in EPA Region 6: University of Texas at Austin, Texas State University – San Marcos, The University of Oklahoma, and New Mexico State University.


RPNM Statement On One Year To Election Day 2012

ALBUQUERQUE, NM – Republican Party of New Mexico Chairman Monty Newman issued the following statement marking one year until Election Day 2012:


Governor to Participate in Ceremony for Unclaimed New Mexico Veterans This Afternoon

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will participate in a burial ceremony for unclaimed veterans this afternoon at Santa Fe National Cemetery. Governor Martinez will deliver remarks and pay tribute to ten New Mexico veterans who lost their lives from 1975 to 2010. The remains of these veterans have not been claimed by family members or friends to arrange final burials. Governor Martinez will accept a flag in their memory before they are laid to rest.


Sierra Club Endorses Eric Griego for U.S. Congress in New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM – The Sierra Club today announced the endorsement of Eric Griego for election to the U.S. Congress to represent New Mexico’s 1st Congressional District, based on his consistently strong record on environmental and clean energy issues.


SFCC Art Exhibition Photographic Truths and Other Illusions

SFCC to Host National Society for Photographic Education Southwest Regional Conference November 11-13
Photographic Truths and Other Illusions, an invitational photography exhibition featuring the work of Society for Photographic Education Regional Conference (SPE) speakers and faculty from Northern New Mexico College, Santa Fe Community College, the Santa Fe University of Arts and Design and the University of New Mexico. The exhibit continues through Nov. 14 For more information, call 505-428-1501.


FREE MEDITATION WORKSHOP ON SATURDAY AT SFCC

1 to 3 p.m., Saturday, November 5 at the William C. Witter Fitness Center
SANTA FE, NM – Seekers of greater stability and centeredness are invited to attend a free meditation workshop at Santa Fe Community College on Saturday, November 5.


PRC to Promote Consumer Rights and Services at ABQ Community Fair

Agency will off information and help on public programs many New Mexicans don't know exist
SANTA FE - The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) will be in the spotlight at this year's Albuquerque Metro Community Assistance Fair on November 2, offering among other things, consumer complaint assistance and helpful information on utility and tax issues.


One Dead and Five Others Severely Injured After Weekend Crash

Chaves County — The New Mexico State Police assumed an investigation from the Chaves County Sheriff’s Department after 14 year old James Lodoza was killed in single vehicle rollover crash.


Senator Lynda M. Lovejoy Named to Leadership Post of National Legislative Organization

Washington, DCOn October 6, 2011 Stephen R. Morris, President of National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), announced the appointment of NM state Senator Lynda M. Lovejoy as Co-Chair of the NCSL Transportation Committee for the 2011-2012 term.


AG King Looks To The Feds For Human Trafficking Prevention Funding

(ALBUQUERQUE)---New Mexico Attorney General Gary King and 43 State and Territorial Attorneys General have sent a letter to the United States House and Appropriations leadership asking them to lend their assistance via their support of four authorized programs under the Human Trafficking Victims Protection Act.


DESERT BIGHORN SHEEP DELISTING ON GAME COMMISSION AGENDA

FARMINGTON -- The New Mexico Game Commission will consider removing desert bighorn sheep from the list of state threatened and endangered species at its meeting Thursday in Farmington.


MEDIA ADVISORY

The ERB Board of Trustees and Executive Staff will travel statewide between October 24 and November 17 to present information on six possible retirement plan design change scenarios. ERB members and the general public will have the opportunity to submit their input to be taken into consideration by the Board. One of the six scenarios will be proposed during the 2012 NM Legislative Session.


NHCC presents Lucia Pulido, Latin Diva Series Concert- All tickets $15.00 in advance

Lucia Pulido mines the musical traditions of her native Colombia and other Latin American countries, with projects ranging from traditional Colombian music to jazz and nueva canción. This is the fourteenth concert in the National Hispanic Cultural Center’s signature Latin Diva Series.


THE HOLOCAUST AND INTOLERANCE MUSEUM OF NEW MEXICO OPENS ITS DOORS TO A 158-YEAR-OLD HIDDEN TREASURE

German-Jewish Family Heirloom Doll House Hidden from Hitler’s Regime Finds a Permanent Home in New Mexico
ALBUQUERQUE – In World War II millions of people went into hiding to escape the Nazis. And, so did a doll house.


Governor to Visit Shining Stars Pre-School in Rio Rancho Today

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will visit Shining Stars Pre-School in Rio Rancho tomorrow to read to pre-kindergarten students. Following her visit with students, Governor Martinez will be available to media to discuss a world record broken earlier this month when she and Public Education Secretary-designate Hanna Skandera took part in Read for the Record, joining over 75,000 adults to read to over 2,000,000 children worldwide.


NEW READING WORLD RECORD SET: GOVERNOR MARTINEZ, SECRETARY SKANDERA, AND NEW MEXICO STUDENTS PART OF THE EFFORT

SANTA FE – Students in New Mexico joined with over 2 million others across the globe to set a new world reading record. The record-setting event took place on Thursday, October 6th when Governor Susana Martinez and Public Education Secretary-designate Hanna Skandera joined 75,723 adults to read the book Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney to 2,184,155 children. These numbers were enough to set a new Guinness World Record for the world’s largest shared reading experience.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES NAMES, SALARIES OF CLASSIFIED EMPLOYEES WILL BE ADDED TO NEW MEXICOS SUNSHINE PORTAL

SANTA FE – Today, in an address to the New Mexico Press Association, Governor Susana Martinez announced upcoming changes to the official transparency website for state government, the New Mexico Sunshine Portal. The portal will list additional information not previously found, including the names, titles and salary rate of all state employees regardless of their classification.


AG's Office Lawyer Recognized for Bankruptcy Work

(ALBUQUERQUE)---New Mexico Attorney General Gary King congratulates Litigation Division Assistant AG Jim Jacobsen for winning the NAAG/SABA Spirit Award during the Bankruptcy from a Government Perspective conference in Austin, Texas this week. The National Association of Attorneys General and the States' Association of Bankruptcy Attorneys hosted the conference.


In Case You Missed It: KOB-TV Exposes The Real Judge Murphy

ALBUQUERQUE, NM - In what can only be described as a jaw-dropping TV news story last night, KOB ran segments of secretly recorded conversations with now-indicted Judge Michael Murphy.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES CHILD CARE FOR 1,300 ADDITIONAL NEW MEXICO CHILDREN

Administration Also Restores Four Percent Reimbursement Rate for Child Care Assistance
SANTA ANA PUEBLO — Governor Susana Martinez and Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) Secretary Yolanda Deines today announced significant changes in the state’s child care subsidy program, increasing pay rates for child care providers by four percent and providing child care to an additional 1,300 New Mexico children who have been on a waiting list. The Governor says this move bolsters the state’s efforts to provide quality early learning opportunities for New Mexico families and will have a major economic impact in the child care industry.


Fatal Crash in Colfax County

Colfax County – Heather Williams (39) of Roswell and Amanda Samuels (20) of Spokane Valley, Washington, died this morning in a single vehicle crash in northern New Mexico.


Shiprock Man Receives 168-Month Prison Sentence for Second-Degree Murder Conviction

ALBUQUERQUE—U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales announced that, this morning, a federal judge sentenced Gary Redhorse John Begay, 26, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation from Shiprock, N.M., to 168 months’ imprisonment for his second-degree murder conviction. Begay will be on supervised release for five years after he completes his prison sentence. Begay has been in federal custody since his arrest on December 17, 2010.


Taxation & Revenue Secretary Padilla Urges Eligible Native American Veterans To File For Income Tax Refunds

State Paid over $800,000 In Refunds To Native American Veterans Whose Personal Income Taxes Were Improperly Withheld
SANTA FE – New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Secretary Demesia Padilla today encouraged both retired and active Native American veterans to contact the State to determine if they’re eligible to receive an income tax refund. The State has so far paid over $825,000 to about 660 Native American veterans who lived on tribal lands and had their New Mexico personal income taxes improperly withheld from their military pay during periods of active duty since 1977.


Newcomb, New Mexico Man Sentenced to 27 Months for Federal Arson Conviction


ALBUQUERQUEToday in federal court in Albuquerque, Derrick Jones Yazzie, a 30-year-old enrolled member of the Navajo Nation from Newcomb, New Mexico, was sentenced to a 27-month term of imprisonment for his arson conviction. Yazzie will be on supervised release for five years after he completes his prison sentence.


State Police Sobriety Checkpoint

Bernalillo County — State Police will be conducting a sobriety checkpoint on Saturday, October 29, 2011, in Bernalillo County.


Town Hall For Senior Citizens to Voice Concerns Regarding Senior Housing Needs

Santa Fe, NM – October 28, 2011 - Santa Fe County Commissioners Liz Stefanics and Kathy Holian along with County Housing and Affordable Housing staff will host a Town Hall meeting to listen to senior citizens concerns regarding senior housing on Monday, November 7 at the Ken and Patty Adam Senior Center, 14 Avenida Torreon in Eldorado from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.


CYFD Secretary to make major child care announcement

CYFD Secretary to make major child care announcement
Albuquerque, NM — Children, Youth, and Families Secretary Yolanda Deines will make a significant announcement regarding New Mexico’s child care program for low income families.


State, Local and Federal Agencies Combine Efforts in Santa Fe Look For Me Pedestrian Safety Campaign


Santa Fe, NM—The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) along with its federal transportation safety partners, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), today unveiled its “Look For Me” pedestrian safety effort in Santa Fe.


Lujan Applauds President Obama`s Move to Lower Student Loan Payments

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Ben Ray Lujan of New Mexico`s Third District applauded the Obama administration`s announcement that it is taking steps to make college more affordable by reducing the burden of student loans.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES STATEWIDE EXPANSION OF CHILD SUPPORT BENCH WARRANT PROGRAM


All New Mexico Child Support Delinquents with Bench Warrants Will Be Listed Online, Amnesty Period to Follow Next Week
SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that her administration is entering the next phase of its Child Support Enforcement Bench Warrant Program. Earlier this year, Governor Martinez and the New Mexico Human Services Department (HSD) launched the program in Bernalillo, Sandoval, and Valencia Counties with the help and support of the New Mexico State Police and local law enforcement agencies.


Governor to Present Awards to State Park Workers Tonight in Albuquerque


SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will attend an annual awards dinner for employees of the New Mexico State Parks Division this evening in Albuquerque and present the Governor’s Award to two employees for their outstanding service to the state.


TROUT HABITAT WORK BEGINS TUESDAY ON SAN JUAN RIVER


NAVAJO DAM – A $300,000 fish habitat project on the trophy trout waters of the San Juan River will be in full swing Tuesday, Nov. 1, when crews move heavy equipment into a popular stretch of the river.


AG King Joins With National Groups to Stop Texts/Stop Wrecks


82% of Young Adults Have Read Texts While Driving
(ALBUQUERQUE)---New Mexico Attorney General Gary King today joins the State Attorneys General, and consumer protection agencies National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Ad Council, to launch a nationwide ad campaign to educate young drivers across the country about the cause and effect of distracted driving.


UPDATE - Link Homicide Investigation

NMDPS: Please distribute the attached press release nationwide. This crime occurred very near Interstate-10 thus it’s possible that the suspect(s) were only traveling through New Mexico.
Steins – On June 7, 2011, the New Mexico State Police took over the investigation into the murder of Mr. Larry Link in Steins, New Mexico. Steins is located along Interstate 10 in Hidalgo County (approximately 3 miles from the New Mexico/Arizona state line).


Statement from AG King Regarding Jerome Block, Jr. Finalizing Plea Agreement:


Today in Santa Fe, Jerome Block, Jr. finalized his plea agreement with the State of New Mexico. Block, Jr.'s agreement requires him to admit guilt to several felony offenses, pay all required restitution, and resign his position as a Public Regulation Commissioner, which he has now done. The agreement further allows him to attend the Drug Court program prior to sentencing.


October 25 BCC Meeting Summary

Santa Fe, NM - October 26, 2011- Below is a summary of the actions taken by the Santa Fe Board of County Commissioners (BCC), Commissioner Kathy Holian was excused.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez announced today that she has made appointments to the Board of Examiners for Architects, the Construction Industries Commission, the State Workforce Development Board, the Board of Veterinary Medicine, the Spaceport America Regional Spaceport District, and the Information Technology Commission.


ALBUQUERQUE POLICE DEPARTMENT BEGINS PEDESTRIAN BLITZES

The Albuquerque Police Department will begin a series of pedestrian blitzes aimed at reducing the number of pedestrian and motorist crashes in Albuquerque On Thursday, Oct. 27. The blitzes will continue through Saturday, Nov. 5, 2011.


SFCC Clay Club to Peddle Their Wares at Ceramics Sale

Functional and artistic works from students and professional ceramicists.
Silent auction. Free admission.

SANTA FE, NM – More than 30 ceramic students are expected to participate in the third annual SFCC Clay Club Ceramics Sale, to be held 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 7 and Thursday, Dec. 8 at Santa Fe Community College.


AGO Road Show Travels To Las Cruces

The New Mexico Attorney General's AGO Road Show makes a stop in Las Cruces on Wednesday, November 9 to offer "Sunshine Laws" Compliance presentations to community members at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum, 4100 Dripping Springs Road.


Over $7,000 Raised by Students for Red Cross 60 Seconds of Giving Campaign

The American Red Cross in New Mexico received over $7,000 in support so far from school-age youth around the state via its second annual “60 Seconds of Giving: Students Across New Mexico,” campaign last week.


CONGRESSMAN PEARCE TO CO-HOST JOB FAIR IN SILVER CITY

Invites Local Businesses, Job Seekers to Participate
Silver City, NM (October 26, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce announced that he will be co-hosting a job fair in Silver City with the Silver City Chamber of Commerce and Western New Mexico University. The job fair will be held on Thursday, November 10th, from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Grant County Business and Convention Center, located at 3011 U.S. Highway 180.


NEW MEXICO FISHING REPORT

This fishing report, provided by the Department of Game and Fish, has been generated from the best information available from area officers, anglers, guides and local businesses. Conditions may vary as stream, lake and weather conditions alter fish and angler activities.


Governor Susana Martinez to Attend Events in Albuquerque Tomorrow


SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will participate in the 16th New Mexico Infrastructure Finance Conference tomorrow in Albuquerque. The Governor will address an audience that includes mayors, managers, and chief financial officers from local and tribal entities from across New Mexico, as well as lawmakers and officials from state and federal agencies. She will discuss the importance of infrastructure development and investment. The conference is sponsored by the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration.


National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day

Santa Fe — On October 29, between the hours of 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, the New Mexico State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration will be providing the public with another opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs.


PRC Chairman Lyons Leads Committee at Southwest Power Pool Event

Meeting showcases billions in energy reforms and future planning across multi-state region
SANTA FE - At the Southwest Power Pool's (SPP) annual meeting to discuss energy reforms, cost allocation and billions of dollars in other energy-related developments across its seven-state region, Public Regulations Commission (PRC) Chairman, Patrick H. Lyons of District 2, helped guide decisions and information as a member of the SPP's Regional State Committee (RSC).


Oasis State Park Hosts Annual Kids Fishin Clinic on November 5, 2011

PORTALES, NM – Oasis State Park with the support of the Friends of Oasis present the “21st Annual Kids Fishin’ Clinic” on November 5, 2011. Kids ages 6-17 years old and their parents or adult chaperones are invited to attend.


NMDOT, NHTSA, FHWA and City of Santa Fe to Co-Host News Conference on Look For Me Pedestrian Safety Campaign in Santa Fe

The New Mexico Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Federal Highway Administration and the City of Santa Fe to co-host news conference on “Look For Me” Pedestrian Safety Campaign in Santa Fe. NHTSA’s Administrator, David Strickland, is flying in from Washington, DC to underscore the agency’s support for the campaign.


Jennings Opposes Money Saving Proposal to Retain An Expert To Handle Redistricting

ALBUQUERQUE, NM — The Republican Party of New Mexico is exposing Tim Jennings' habit of wastefully spending taxpayer dollars and engaging in heavy-handed, Democrat partisanship.


AG King Warns Consumers Against Falling Prey to "Cramming"

Feds Asked to Help Protect Public from Unauthorized Phone Bills Charges
(ALBUQUERQUE)---New Mexico Attorney General Gary King has joined a multi-state coalition of 17 attorneys general to call on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to adopt stronger regulations thus protecting consumers nationwide from a type of phone bill fraud known as "cramming."


PRC Chairman Lyons to Attend Southwest Power Pool Committee Meeting Today in Santa Fe - Available for comment

New Mexico Public Regulation Commission Chairman, Patrick Lyons, will be attending the Regional State Committee of the Southwest Power Pool meeting today from 1—5 p.m. in the Anasazi Ballroom of the El Dorado Hotel in Santa Fe. The meeting will cover topics relating to the improvement and maintenance of America’s power grid, including certain areas affecting New Mexico.


EPA Celebrates Childrens Health Month and National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week

(DALLAS – October 24, 2011) Nearly a quarter of a million children living in the United States have blood lead levels high enough to cause significant damage to their health, estimates the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).


Land Office Earns Almost $4 Million during Oil and Gas Lease Sale

(SANTA FE, New Mexico) – The New Mexico State Land Office earned almost $4 million for beneficiaries during its monthly oil and gas lease sale held Oct.18 in Santa Fe.


U.S. Department of the Interior

(Pine Springs, TX) Superintendent Dennis A. Vásquez invites everyone to join park rangers for free interpretive programs at Guadalupe Mountains National Park throughout the month of November. Said Vásquez, “the Fall is a wonderful time to visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park. (ALSO AVAILBLE IN SPANISH)


NMNG to celebrate 10th Annual Red Ribbon Drug Prevention Campaign

The New Mexico National Guard’s Drug Demand Reduction Section will celebrate the 10th annual Red Ribbon Campaign in Albuquerque Public Schools on Tuesday, October 25, 2011, 9:00 a.m. at Truman Middle School, 9400 Benavides Road SW, Albuquerque, N.M. Soldiers and community partners have organized numerous awareness and educational activities for students and citizens throughout the APS district to celebrate the campaign.


BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS NAMED NUMBER 1

NON-PROFIT SERVING FOR AT-RISK YOUTH
Albuquerque, NM – Big Brothers Big Sisters has earned Philanthropedia’s top ranking on a list of most recommended, high-impact national nonprofits serving at-risk youth. The nation’s leader in quality, one-to-one youth mentoring, Big Brothers Big Sisters received praise for its effective mentoring model that leads to positive and measurable youth outcomes for children who face adversity, as well as for its organizational leadership and community outreach


SFCC Brings Chopped to Santa Fe with International Cuisine Student Competition

Public invited to watch, 2 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 27, Room 413 at SFCC
SANTA FE - On Thursday, October 27, students from Santa Fe Community College’s International Cuisine class in the college’s Culinary Arts Program will put their training into practice with the 5th annual International Cuisine Student Competition.


AG King Addresses Lawmakers on International Crimes

Law Enforcement Cooperation Key to Success
(BELLEVUE, WASHINGTON)---Attorney General Gary King says cooperation between law enforcement agencies is vital to combat international criminal enterprises that engage in human trafficking, drug smuggling, and arms trafficking.


EPA approves Ute Mountain Ute Tribe's Water Quality Standards

Clean Water Act standards serve as a foundation for the protection of tribal waters, including the San Juan and Mancos Rivers, and McElmo Creek
(Denver, Colo. – Oct. 20, 2011) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved the Water Quality Standards for the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe with Reservation lands in Colorado, New Mexico and Utah. The Tribe submitted its Water Quality Standards to EPA earlier this year for review and an approval determination under the Clean Water Act. The Tribe's standards will be implemented for all Clean Water Act purposes, including issuing and enforcing discharge permits for Reservation surface waters.


Governor to Attend Joy Junction Silver Anniversary Gala Tomorrow 10/21

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will attend the Joy Junction Silver Anniversary Gala tomorrow in Albuquerque, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Joy Junction Homeless Shelter. Joy Junction serves as a place of refuge for men, women, children, and families in need by providing food, clothing, shelter and safety. Joy Junction serves 300 individuals, including 80 children, every day. The shelter serves over 100,000 meals each year and is largely funded through the contributions of citizens and businesses in New Mexico.


TWIN SISTERS LIFE-SAVING ORGAN TRANSPLANTS AFTER YEARS OF CYSTIC FIBROSIS FEATURED IN FILM

“The Power of Two” film to be featured in Santa Fe Independent Film Festival
What: "The Power of Two," a documentary film of twin sisters, two cultures, and two new chances at life, will have its New Mexico premiere at the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival.


Advanced Interview Techniques for Child Exploitation Investigations

The foundation of any social service or criminal investigation is the victim interview. The non-compliant, adolescent, child victim of abuse and exploitation is the most difficult and challenging of these interviews.


PRC Vice Chair Embarks on District Four Outreach Tour


SANTA FE - Today, New Mexico Public Regulations Commission (PRC) Vice-Chair Theresa Becenti-Aguilar, embarks on an extensive public outreach tour that will visit multiple locations over the next several months to provide information about the PRC and its different divisions to residents, tribes and pueblos in District 4.


PEARCE APPLAUDS HIDALGO COUNTY FOR TAKING A STAND ON FOB

County Passed a Resolution on Border Patrol Forward Operating Base
Lordsburg, NM (October 20, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement in regard to Hidalgo County’s resolution asserting their preferred site for the Forward Operating Base that will be built in the county:


AG King Keynotes Criminal Justice Summit

(INDIANAPOLIS)---Attorney General Gary King today discussed the Bullcoming v. NM drunk driving case that has redefined the use of witness testimony when introducing crime lab evidence in criminal trials.


UNM to Host Second Community Forum on Anti-LGBTQ Bullying

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning Resource Center at UNM invites students, faculty, staff and the community to attend the second annual Community Forum on Anti-LGBTQ Bullying on Thursday, Oct. 20, 2:30–4:30 p.m. in the Student Union Building, ballroom C.


N.M. Senators Introduce Bill to Increase Border Commerce

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jeff Bingaman and Tom Udall today introduced legislation to expand to 75 miles the zone in which certain Mexican nationals can travel into New Mexico to shop, conduct business, and/or visit family.


Lujn: Cost of Living Adjustment for Social Security Recipients Will Benefit New Mexicos Seniors

Santa Fe, NM – Congressman Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico’s Third District welcomed today’s announcement that for the first time since 2009, Social Security recipients will receive a cost of living adjustment, including those who receive Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income. Beginning in January, seniors who receive Social Security benefits will see a 3.6 percent increase in their checks.


Governor Honors State Police Patrolmen at Memorial Highway Dedication in Chaves County

State Officials and Families of Patrolmen Damon Talbott and Ramon Robert Solis gathered to pay tribute to the fallen law enforcement officers
ROSWELL - Governor Susana Martinez, representatives of the Departments of Transportation and Public Safety, the New Mexico State Police, local officials and friends and families of Patrolmen Damon Talbott and Ramon Robert Solis gathered on a solemn anniversary to pay tribute to the fallen law enforcement officers at a memorial highway dedication.


PRC Commissioner Marks to Speak at Upcoming National Energy Events

SANTA FE - This month, Jason Marks District 1 Commissioner for the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC), is taking New Mexico's progress in energy development to the national stage as an invited speaker at several energy events around the United States.


Santa Fe Higher Education Center Open House & Information Session

Prospective college students and their families, returning students, students who have already earned an associate degree and wish to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree are invited to a free Open House and Information Session with HEC founding partners SFCC, New Mexico Highlands University, the University of New Mexico and the Institute of American Indian Arts.


Child Sex Offender Sentenced in Santa Fe

Multi-Agency Effort Returns Fugitive to NM
(SANTA FE)---New Mexico Attorney General Gary King's Prosecutions Division reports former Dixon, New Mexico resident William Cook, 48, who had been on the lam since May, has been sentenced to 5 and a half years incarceration on multiple counts of sexual exploitation of children.


Another Human Trafficking Indictment for AG

Promoting Prostitution of Girl Under 18 Alleged
(ALBUQUERQUE)---Attorney General Gary King's office today obtained an indictment against 22-year-old Kendel Morrell, of Albuquerque, on six counts, including human trafficking of a person under eighteen years of age for the purpose of commercial sexual activity in Bernalillo County.


Governor to Participate in Dedication Ceremony in Roswell Tomorrow

Damon Talbott and Robert Solis Memorial Highway
SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez will be in Roswell tomorrow for the dedication of the Damon Talbott and Robert Solis Memorial Highway. Both men were New Mexico State Police Officers who were killed when their helicopter crashed during a training exercise in October 2001. Governor Martinez will deliver brief remarks at the event.


Agua Fria and Lopez Lane Intersection Closure on October 19

Santa Fe – October 18, 2011 – The section of Agua Fria at the Lopez Lane intersection will be closed on Wednesday, October 19 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to allow Blue Line Construction to complete the asphalt restoration due to the recent waterline work done for the Agua Fria Community Water Association.


NEW MEXICO FISHING REPORT

This fishing report, provided by the Department of Game and Fish, has been generated from the best information available from area officers, anglers, guides and local businesses. Conditions may vary as stream, lake and weather conditions alter fish and angler activities.


Environmental Groups Act to Protect the Air in New Mexico and the Four Corners Region

Opposition grows to high pollution levels from PNM’s San Juan Generating Station
Santa Fe – In a push for healthier air across New Mexico and the Southwest, a coalition of environmental groups has filed a motion in federal court, approved today, to block an effort by New Mexico power company PNM to evade requirements of the Clean Air Act.


PRC Vice Chair Kicks Off Native American Heritage Month with Outreach Tour

Press Conference to outline upcoming tour schedule and information
SANTA FE - New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) Vice-Chair, Theresa Becenti-Aguilar, will hold a press conference on Thursday, October 20 to announce the start of her District 4 Outreach Tour, which will visit multiple locations over the next several months to tout community-based PRC initiatives in the region.


NMDOT and DPS Memorial Highway Dedication in Honor of Patrolman Damon Talbott and Patrolman Ramon Robert Solis

The New Mexico Department of Transportation and Department of Public Safety/New Mexico State Police will be holding a press conference to dedicate a four mile portion of U.S. 70 Highway in Chaves County as the “Patrolman Damon Talbott and Patrolman Ramon Robert Solis Memorial Highway.”


US Armed Forces Radio 70th Anniversary 1941-2011

Six New Features Released
India-Burma WWII
The Radio Heritage Foundation releases six new features celebrating AFRS radio stations in India and Burma during the 1940's at its global website www.radioheritage.com.


PEARCE: USPS ATTEMPTS TO LAY BLAME WILL NOT SOLVE FISCAL CRISIS

Government Accountability Office Report Confirms “Overpayment” to USPS Is False
Washington, DC (October 17, 2011) Today Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement regarding the Government Accountability Office Report on the U.S. Postal Service that was released on October 13th:


NMDOT Launches Look For Me Pedestrian Safety Campaign

Albuquerque, NM—“Look For Me,” is the theme of the New Mexico Department of Transportation’s (NMDOT) new education campaign to remind pedestrians and motorists to look when out on New Mexico’s roadways.


SFCC Art Exhibition

Visual Arts Gallery
Photographic Truths and Other Illusions
Oct. 18- Nov. 14, 2011
Public Reception - Fri., Nov. 11 from 5 - 6:30 p.m.
SANTA FE, NM -- Santa Fe Community College's Visual Arts Gallery in the School of Arts and Design presents Photographic Truths and Other Illusions, an invitational photography exhibition featuring the work of Society for Photographic Education Regional Conference speakers and faculty from Northern New Mexico College, Santa Fe Community College, the Santa Fe University of Arts and Design and the University of New Mexico.


Reminder----GCA TRAINING TOMORROW IN ABQ

The AG's office is taking steps to ensure that all state and local government bodies in New Mexico are aware of the changes to the Governmental Conduct Act. This training is one of many that will take place in cities across the State of New Mexico. Chief Deputy AG Al Lama and Deputy AG Betsy Glenn are seminar presenters.


What National Mortgage Lender Negotiations Mean for NM

New Mexico’s involvement continues in a multistate investigation of the servicing and foreclosure practices of the nation’s largest mortgage lenders.


PRC Insurance Division Issues Consumer Alert to Smoke Damage Claimants

Out-of-state adjusting companies soliciting large and unnecessary claims fees in several counties
SANTA FE - The New Mexico Public Regulations Commission's (PRC) Division of Insurance (DOI) today announced it is monitoring the activity of public adjusting companies targeting victims of home-related smoke damage from summer wildfires in the Los Alamos County and Ruidoso areas.


CORRECTION: 275 LATE-SEASON ARCHERY ELK LICENSES AVAILABLE NOV. 2 IN ONLINE SALE

SANTA FE – Two hundred seventy-five late-season archery elk hunting licenses will be available Nov. 2 in a first-come, first-served sale on the Department of Game and Fish website


SFCC Offers Afternoon of Halloween Fun

Halloween Fall Festival To Be Held 3-6 p.m., Monday, Oct. 31
SANTA FE, NM – A bagful of fun from games and prizes to vendor demonstrations awaits participants of the Santa Fe Community College’s Halloween Fall Festival, set for 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 31.


TWIN SISTERS LIFE-SAVING ORGAN TRANSPLANTS AFTER YEARS OF CYSTIC FIBROSIS FEATURED IN FILM

The Power of Two film to be featured in Santa Fe Independent Film Festival
What: "The Power of Two," a documentary film of twin sisters, two cultures, and two new chances at life, will have its New Mexico premiere at the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival.


300 LATE-SEASON ARCHERY ELK LICENSES AVAILABLE NOV. 2 IN ONLINE SALE

SANTA FE – Three hundred late-season archery elk hunting licenses will be available Nov. 2 in a first-come, first-served sale on the Department of Game and Fish website.


SFCC's ART on CAMPUS presents Odus Lynd Retrospective, Oct 19-Nov 17

Santa Fe Community College’s ART on CAMPUS and theSchool of Arts +Design present an Odus Lynd Retrospective, Oct. 19-Nov 17, with a reception on Thur., Nov. 3, 5-7 p.m. The late Odus Lynd was an accomplished photographer when he passed away over the summer. All photographs are for sale. Contact SFCC’s Art on Campus Office at (505) 428-1533 or visit www.sfcc.edu.


Agua Fria and Lopez Lane Intersection Closure

Santa Fe – October 14, 2011 – The section of Agua Fria at the Lopez Lane intersection will be closed on Monday, October 17 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. to allow the Agua Fria Community Water Association to install two 12 inch caps on the existing 12 inch line to separate the water zones.


GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES GLOBAL ELECTRONICS MANUFACTURER MOVING OPERATIONS TO NEW MEXICO

TE Connectivity to Bring Jobs from El Paso to Santa Teresa
SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez made the following statement after receiving notification that global electronics manufacturer TE Connectivity will merge two distribution and manufacturing centers in the southwest United States into a single facility in Santa Teresa. Governor Martinez and Economic Development Secretary-designate Jon Barela both met personally with representatives from TE Connectivity to encourage them to expand their operations in New Mexico and contribute to the state’s growing economy along the southern border.


AG's Consumer Alert Counterfeit Check Database UPDATED

Attorney General Gary King's Consumer Protection Division's Counterfeit Check Database has been updated to help consumers identify fraudulent checks that are currently circulating in New Mexico. Consumers can view a variety of bogus checks at http://www.nmag.gov/checkscams/default.aspx


PRC Insurance Division Takes Enforcement Action Against Raton Agent

SANTA FE - The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission's (PRC) Division of Insurance (DOI) today announced an enforcement action pursuant to the fraudulent business practices of Raton-based Farmer's Insurance agent, Kelly Mehn.


GAME COMMISSION NAMES JIM LANE TO LEAD DEPARTMENT OF GAME AND FISH

ALBUQUERQUE – Jim Lane, chief of the Department of Game and Fish Wildlife Management Division, was selected as the agency’s new director Thursday by the State Game Commission.


ONLINE INTERVIEWING SITE REVOLUTIONIZES HIRING PROCESS

IVINOW site eliminates expensive “blind date” from interview process ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The new Web site, Ismari Virtual Interviews (IVINOW.com), has revolutionized the hiring process, providing human resource managers with a priceless, stress-free, and efficient way to acquire the most qualified job candidates.


Sumner Lake State Park Closes Boat Ramp

State Park Officials Stress Awareness Due to Low Lake Levels
SANTA FE, NM – Sumner Lake State Park has closed access to all boat ramps and is prohibiting boating due to dropping water levels, resulting safety concerns, and the inability of park staff to launch a patrol boat in the event of an emergency. The combination of low precipitation and distribution of water for irrigation have resulted in extremely low water levels at several state park lakes causing them to be closed. The Sumner Lake boat ramp will be reopened to motorboats when lake level conditions improve.


Survey of Ignition Interlocks in the U.S.

The use of ignition interlocks as a sanction to reduce drunk driving in the United States has more than doubled since 2006. The sixth annual survey of interlocks in the United States shows that the number of currently-installed interlocks has increased from 101,000 to 249,000 in the last five years.


NMDOT to Launch Look For Me Pedestrian Safety Awareness Campaign at News Conference

The New Mexico Department of Transportation to launch “Look For Me,” campaign to remind pedestrians and motorists to look when out on New Mexico’s roadways. The aim of the program is to reduce crashes involving pedestrians and pedestrian fatalities.


CYFD/APD Investigating Injury of Foster Child

Santa Fe, NM — The New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department (CYFD) and the Albuquerque Police Department are investigating a serious injury to a 4-year-old male foster child in state custody.


PEARCE: TRADE AGREEMENTS WILL FOSTER AMERICAN JOB GROWTH

House Passes Trade Agreements with South Korea, Columbia, and Panama
Washington, DC (October 12, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce voted in favor of the free trade agreements with South Korea, Columbia, and Panama.


Heinrich to Boehner: Time to Act, Level the Playing Field for American Businesses

ALBUQUERQUE – Today, U.S. Representative Martin Heinrich (NM-1) took aim at House Republican leadership for failing to bring a bill targeting Chinese currency manipulation to the floor of the House of Representatives for a vote. The legislation overwhelmingly passed the House last year by a vote of 348 to 79.


October 11 BCC Meeting Summary

Santa Fe – October 12, 2011 – Below is a summary of the actions taken by the Santa Fe Board of County Commissioners. All five Commissioners were present.


NM Behavioral Health Collaborative Meets Thursday, October 13 in Santa Fe

Santa Fe, New Mexico – The New Mexico Behavioral Health Collaborative (Collaborative) will hold its next meeting on Thursday, October 13, 2011 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Human Services Department office, located at 37 Plaza la Prensa in Santa Fe.


PEARCE: HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH IMPORTANT TO NEW MEXICO

Celebrating Cultural Contributions to Our State
Washington, DC (October 12, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve Pearce issued the following statement in regard to the celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month, spanning from September 15th to October 15th:


Capital Outlay to Provide $1.85 Million for Santa Teresa Water System Infrastructure Project

SANTA FE –Governor Susana Martinez signed the Capital Outlay Bill Tuesday which includes $1.85 million in capital improvements for the Santa Teresa Water System Infrastructure Project.


Governor Signs Capital Outlay Bill that Allocates $1 Million for MainStreet Projects

SANTA FE - The Economic Development Department’s MainStreet Program has received a $1 million appropriation for MainStreet infrastructure projects statewide. The appropriation was included in the Capital Outlay bill passed during the 2011 Special Session and signed by Governor Susana Martinez on Tuesday.


Redistricting: more than meets the eye

Many constituents that I represent have raised their concern that nothing was done during the recent redistricting session and I believe they deserve a response.


Governor to Attend Breast Cancer Research Fundraiser Tomorrow in Las Cruces

SANTA FE - Governor Susana Martinez will attend the Tough Enough to Wear Pink Fashion Show Luncheon tomorrow in Las Cruces. The event is a fundraiser for cancer research with proceeds going to efforts at New Mexico State University and the University of New Mexico to discover a cure for breast cancer. The Governor will also deliver brief remarks.


PEARCE OFFERS CONDOLENCES AND PRAYERS FOR THE FAMILY OF THOMAS P. FOY

Former State Legislator and Bataan Death March Survivor’s Legacy Will Be Remembered
Washington, DC (October 11, 2011) Today, Congressman Steve issued the following statement regarding the death of former state legislator and Bataan Death March survivor, Thomas P. Foy:


Lujn Highlights Expedited Permitting Process for Navajo Gallup Water Supply Project

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico’s Third District highlighted a move by the Obama Administration to expedite the permitting process for 14 infrastructure projects across the country, including the Navajo Gallup Water Supply project in Northern New Mexico.


PRC Commissioner to Attend Tribal Health and Wellness Event

SANTA FE—New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) Vice-Chair Theresa Becenti-Aguilar and members of the PRC’s Consumer Relations Division will be available to speak to the public during this week’s State and Tribal Celebration of Health and Wellness Week event at Isleta and Kewa (formerly Santo Domingo).


Robust Tribal Infrastructure Fund Leads to Improved Opportunities for Tribal Communities

(Santa Fe) - The Tribal Infrastructure Fund (“TIF”) that was signed into law in 2005 has been significantly revamped since its inception. The TIF, which supports the construction of basic infrastructure projects in tribal communities such as wastewater systems, roads, and electrical lines, received a vigorous boost in funding in the 2010 Legislative Session. That session saw significant gains in the amount of 5% of annual Senior Severance Tax Bonding Capacity go to the TIF.


100 Million in the U.S. Now Registered as Organ and Tissue Donors

Donation and Transplant Community celebrates long-awaited milestone
ALBUQUERQUE, NM October, 11, 2011— A goal set by the donation and transplant community in 2006 was achieved this month.


NEW MEXICO FISHING REPORT

This fishing report, provided by the Department of Game and Fish, has been generated from the best information available from area officers, anglers, guides and local businesses. Conditions may vary as stream, lake and weather conditions alter fish and angler activities.


Bingaman & Udall Meet With Postmaster General and Push For Answers on Closures

WASHINGTON - Following a meeting this week with U.S. Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe, U.S. Senators Jeff Bingaman and Tom Udall are sending him a letter to reiterate their request for transparency and answers to remaining questions about the impact of proposed postal closures across New Mexico.


Bingaman Applauds Obama Administration's Plan to Improve Energy Transmission

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman today applauded the Obama administration's plan to accelerate the now cumbersome process for permitting energy transmission lines.


EXPECT ROADBLOCKS STATEWIDE DURING HUNTING SEASONS

The Department of Game and Fish will conduct roadblocks throughout the state during fall hunting seasons to collect harvest data and to apprehend wildlife law violators.


New Mexico Approved for $13.2 Million in Funds through the State Small Business Credit Initiative Program

SANTA FE – New Mexico Economic Development Department Secretary Jon Barela announced Tuesday that New Mexico has been approved by U.S. Department of the Treasury to participate in the State Small Business Credit Initiative Program.


GOVERNOR SIGNS CAPITAL OUTLAY BILL THAT FOCUSES ON REGIONAL, STATEWIDE PROJECTS

With Bi-Partisan Support, Martinez Pushed for Larger Version of Bill that would have Allocated Roughly Four Times as Much Funding to Jobs Projects
SANTA FE – Today, Governor Susana Martinez announced that she has signed SB 10, legislation passed during the recent special session that provides approximately $86 million in funding for capital projects throughout New Mexico. The bill focuses funding on projects of regional and statewide importance, a key reform that Governor Martinez has instituted to ensure that capital dollars are focused on statewide projects that will have a broad impact, as opposed to local pork projects.


Guadalupe Mountains National Park to Celebrate 2nd Annual National Fossil Day

(Pine Springs, TX) Superintendent Dennis A. Vásquez announced Guadalupe Mountains National Park will more than 185 partners in 48 states, including museums, federal and state agencies, fossil sites, universities, professional organizations, and avocational groups, universities in celebrating National Fossil Day on Saturday, October 15, 2011, and invites everyone to visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park to enjoy the day and learn about the Permian-era fossil reef which forms the Guadalupe Mountains.


GOVERNOR VETOES HOUSE, SENATE, AND PRC REDISTRICTING MAPS

SANTA FE – Today, Governor Susana Martinez vetoed legislation that would re-draw district lines for the New Mexico Senate, the New Mexico House of Representatives, and the Public Regulation Commission – as well as a stand-alone bill that would have split a single Bernalillo County precinct. Earlier this week, the Governor signed the redistricting map for the Public Education Commission, citing the bipartisan compromise and broad support that the plan received. The legislature failed to pass a redistricting plan for the U.S. House of Representatives.


UPDATE - Two Subjects Wanted For Murder

Valencia County – Murder suspects Derek Gallegos (18) and Robert Lucero (19) have been arrested by the State Police. Gallegos and Lucero were wanted for the murder of Sean Christian (39).


Two Subjects Wanted For Murder

Valencia County – Derek Gallegos (18) and Robert Lucero (19) are wanted for the murder of Mr. Sean Christian (39). The incident occurred on Wednesday, October 4, 2011, in the Meadowlake area of Valencia County.


GOVERNOR ORDERS FLAGS FLOWN AT HALF STAFF IN HONOR OF SERGEANT CHRISTOPHER DIAZ

SANTA FE – Governor Susana Martinez has ordered flags flown at half staff across New Mexico from sunrise on Monday, October 10 until sundown on Tuesday, October 11 in honor of United States Marine Corps Sergeant Christopher Diaz, 27, who was killed during a Special Operations combat mission in Afghanistan on September 27, 2011.


Economic Development Secretary Participates in Ceremony Marking Completion of Roadrunner Solar Generating Facility in Santa Teresa

SANTA TERESA, NM — A construction project that created 240 jobs in Santa Teresa culminated with an inauguration ceremony to mark the start of energy production from the state’s second-largest photovoltaic operation on Friday.


SFCC Hosts Free Flu Vaccine Clinic

The flu vaccine clinic is open to the public. Flu mist is available to all 2-18 year olds without health conditions. Shots are for those who are 6 months and older. Children under 18 must have a parent present to sign a release form.


FISHING BAG LIMITS UNLIMITED AS SUMNER LAKE IS DRAINED

FORT SUMNER –Anglers at Sumner Lake can catch and keep as many sport fish as they like beginning today as the lake is being drained to accommodate downstream irrigation demands.


Board of County Commissioners Seek Public Participation for Redistricting

Santa Fe, NM – October 7, 2011- The Board of County Commissioners (BCC) will have the second and final public hearing on Tuesday, October 11 at approximately 4 p.m. in the County Commission Chambers, 102 Grant Ave. to review the final two redistricting options. At this time the BCC will receive public comment and discussion on the redistricting options.


RPNM Challenges New Mexico Campaign Finance Limits

ALBUQUERQUE, NM — Republican Party of New Mexico Executive Director Bryan Watkins issued the following statement upon filing a lawsuit challenging the state’s current campaign finance laws which undermine New Mexicans’ First Amendment right to freedom of speech: