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NEWS:
Volume 2, Number 231
January 17, 2008
January 17, 2008
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Special weather information
provided by:
Wendell L. Malone,
Area Skywarn Coordinator
Eddy & Culberson counties
provided by:
Wendell L. Malone,
Area Skywarn Coordinator
Eddy & Culberson counties
| THE WEATHER BOX www.ke5wlm-eddycountyskywarn.blogspot.com Today: A 20 percent chance of snow before 11am. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 36. Calm wind becoming south between 5 and 10 mph. Tonight: Partly cloudy, with a low around 16. Southwest wind between 5 and 10 mph. Friday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 48. North wind between 5 and 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Friday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 20. North wind around 5 mph. Saturday: Sunny, with a high near 46. West wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south. Saturday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 25. Sunday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 61. Sunday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 27. M.L.King Day: Mostly sunny, with a high near 56. Monday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 29. Tuesday: Partly sunny, with a high near 44. Tuesday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 26. Wednesday: Partly sunny, with a high near 51. |
| The United States government's national threat level is Elevated, or Yellow. The U.S. threat level is High, or Orange, for all domestic and international flights. Only small amounts of liquids, aerosols and gels are allowed in carry-on baggage. See the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website for up-to-date information on items permitted and prohibited on airlines. |
Long-term future of FLETC in Pete's sights
ARTESIA – In the build-up to the 2009 federal budget season, U.S. Senator
Pete Domenici reviewed progress at the Federal Law Enforcement Training
Center at Artesia and received briefings on the near and long-term needs
at the campus on Wednesday.
Domenici, who has championed FLETC-Artesia since its establishment in
1989, serves on the Senate committees that have appropriations and
authorizing jurisdiction over all FLETC campuses, which are part of the
Department of Homeland Security.
Since FY2006, Domenici has worked to secure more than $70 million for
infrastructure improvements at the Artesia campus—including $1.2 million
for a detention training facility and $2.1 million for a trainee recreation
center in FY2008.
“Making sure the Artesia campus is well-equipped and funded to meet the
training demands Congress is mandating remains a high priority for me as I
begin my last year in Congress,” said Domenici, who in October announced
his retirement.
“The 2009 fiscal process is just beginning, so I want to be here to see first-
hand the growth in Artesia and to get an on-the-ground assessment of what
is still needed here, not just in the next year but on down the road,” he
said. “I have pledged to do everything I can to ensure that FLETC Artesia
remains a pivotal training asset for the federal government.”
While President Bush is expected to roll out his FY2009 budget requests on
Feb. 4, Domenici is also working to develop his appropriations and
legislative priorities for the upcoming year. As such, the veteran lawmaker
is identifying policy and funding needs for FLETC and other projects
around New Mexico.
Domenici, a member of the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations
Subcommittee, has enjoyed success in gaining new funding for FLETC
Artesia in recent years, including:
· $45.0 million for two new dormitories (FY2006 and FY2007)
· $3.0 million for an aquatics training facility (FY2006)
· $10.0 million for a firearms multipurpose building (FY2007)
· $8.9 million for a language arts facility (FY2007)
· $1.2 million for a detention training facility (FY2008)
· $2.1 million for a recreation center (FY2008)
During his visit Wednesday, Domenici was briefed on current activities at
FLETC Artesia, including: basic and advanced Border Patrol training;
Federal Air Marshal training; Federal Flight Deck Officer training and
Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement training. He also toured the
campus to assess new and planned construction projects.
Mayor Manuel Madrid remembered for service to Artesia
ARTESIA - Artesia's beloved mayor, Manuel Madrid, died Tuesday at his
home. He was comfortable and surrounded by his family as he passed
from this world into the next, following a prolonged and complicated battle
with leukemia. He was 65 years old.
Madrid was elected by the city council as Artesia's 30th mayor in June 2005
when former Mayor Daniel Reyes was appointed as Division III Magistrate
Judge. He was elected to the office in March 2006.
Prior to that, Madrid served as a city councilor representing District 1 for 15
years, five of which he served as mayor pro tem.
Giving of his time, energy and winning personality wasn't limited to city
government. Madrid served on the Greater Artesia Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors, he served as chairman of the Artesia General Hospital
Advisory Council and served with the Industrial Development Committee,
which was instrumental in bringing the Federal Law Enforcement Training
Center to Artesia. Madrid's longstanding service included a stint as advisor
to Artesia MainStreet as well as serving on the Advisory Council for Our
Lady of Grace Catholic Church. He was a member of the New Mexico
Municipal League as well as a past president, and was active with the
National League of Cities. He served as a member of the New Mexico
Border Authority and was active in the New Mexico Border Health Council.
In 2004, Madrid was appointed to the board of commissioners of the
Regional Housing Authority, Region VI, by Gov. Bill Richardson.
As a native of Artesia with ties to the land, Madrid had a keen insight into
the needs of the community from agriculture to economics. Madrid retired
from Navajo Refining, and brought insight from the oil industry's
perspective. Madrid served in the U.S. Navy and shared a patriot's view
with his friends, family and fellow veterans.
Artesia360 file photo
Madrid served the community with a smile, a twinkle in his eye, an attentive
ear and a sharp mind. He was proactive and forward-thinking, willing to
work hard and ask hard questions for the betterment of the community. He
welcomed visits from his constituents and dealt with their issues judiciously.
He signed innumerable proclamations for community organizations and
proffered sincere praise for their accomplishments. He was always pleased
to recognize city employees for their service and accomplishments. He was
honored to address the public at such events as Veterans' Day and
Memorial Day events. He welcomed Artesia's first graders on their annual
field trip to city hall.
U.S. Senator Pete Domenici issued a statement Tuesday: “I am saddened
by the death of Mayor Madrid. Manuel’s long battle is over, but I believe he
will be remembered for being a strong champion for Artesia. As a long-
time city councilor and then mayor, he dedicated himself to the city and
improving its overall vitality. It has always been a pleasure to work with him,
and I’ll miss our interaction.
“My wife Nancy and I offer Linda and the entire Madrid family our sympathy
and prayers. Manuel had a very evident dedication to Linda, his children
and grandchildren, who will feel his absence most. I hope and pray they,
and all the Mayor’s admirers, will find solace in his life and all of his efforts
on their behalf.”
After receiving the news of Madrid’s passing, Congressman Steve Pearce
released the following statement: “Mayor Madrid was a principled leader
always looking to make things better for the people of Artesia. He took on
the tough issues and became directly involved in ensuring his community
had access to affordable housing, quality education and health care. He
was a dedicated public servant whose contributions will not be forgotten.
“I had the opportunity to become friends with Mayor Madrid during our time
at Leadership New Mexico. I found him to be a passionate advocate for
doing what was right and honorable. Our thoughts and prayers will be with
his family during the difficult time.”
Madrid is survived by his wife Linda; his mother Senaida Madrid; sons
Bryan Madrid, Todd Madrid, and Manuel Madrid, Jr.; a daughter Katrina
Madrid; brothers Santiago Madrid of Espanola, N.M., Joe H. Madrid of
Roswell, N.M., Sammy Madrid of Artesia, and Jerry Madrid of Artesia; sisters
Margaret Soto of Carlsbad, N.M., Martha Marquez of Hobbs, N.M., and Mary
Ann Cano of Edgewood, N.M.; grandchildren Jenelle, Courtnee, Audrey,
Michelle, Daniel, Michael, Marisa, Bryan, Jr., Dominic, Monique, and Nikole;
and great-grandchildren Arianna and Desiray.
He will be missed by his relatives, numerous friends, his city hall family, the
city council, city employees and the citizens of Artesia. But more than
that... he will be remembered.
MySpace to Boost Social Networking Safety for Children
AG King OK’s Nationwide Agreement
ALBUQUERQUE - New Mexico Attorney General Gary King joined AGs in at
least 45 other states Monday to announce that MySpace has agreed to
significant steps to better protect children on its web site, including creation
of a broad-based task force to explore and develop age and identity
verification technology.
The attorneys general advocate age and identity verification, calling it vital
to better protecting children using social networking sites from on-line
sexual predators and inappropriate material.
Attorney General Kings says, “We have been pushing MySpace to make
these changes because of our concern that sex predators were repeatedly
using the site to victimize children.” The agreement culminates nearly two
years of discussions between MySpace and the attorneys general.
Other specific changes and policies that MySpace agreed to develop
include: allowing parents to submit their children’s emails so MySpace can
prevent anyone using those emails from setting up profiles, making the
default setting “private” for profiles of 16- and 17-year-olds, promising to
respond within 72 hours to inappropriate content complaints and committing
more staff and/or resources to review and classify photographs and
discussion groups.
Under the agreement, MySpace, with support from the attorneys general,
will create and lead an Internet Safety Technical Task Force to explore and
develop age and identity verification tools for social networking web sites.
The task force will report back to the attorneys general every three months
and issue a formal report with findings and recommendations at the end of
2008. In the agreement, the Attorneys General commend MySpace for its
efforts to address social networking safety issues.
MySpace also will hire a contractor to compile a registry of email addresses
provided by parents who want to restrict their child’s access to the site.
MySpace will bar anyone using submitted email addresses from signing in
or creating a profile.
MySpace also agreed to:
· Strengthen software identifying underage users;
· Retain a contractor to better identify and expunge inappropriate
images;
· Obtain and constantly update a list of pornographic web sites and
regularly sever any links between them and MySpace;
· Implement changes making it harder for adults to contact children;
· Dedicate meaningful resources to educating children and parents
about on-line safety.
· Review its icon to report abuse to determine whether it should be
modified or replaced;
· Create a closed “high school” section for users under 18.
Solar jobs coming to NM
SANTA FE - Governor Bill Richardson Monday announced SCHOTT AG, of
Germany, will build a solar products manufacturing plant at Mesa Del Sol,
just south of Albuquerque. The $500 million complex is expected to open in
early 2009 and will create as many as 1,500 jobs at peak production.
SCHOTT will manufacture solar photovoltaic (PV) modules and receiver
tubes for concentrated solar plants at the new facility, and will be one of the
company’s largest operations in the United States.
“I am committed to making New Mexico a clean energy state,” said
Governor Richardson. “I am pleased SCHOTT is opening a factory and
bringing more alternative clean energy development to the state.”
SCHOTT is one of the largest solar manufacturers in the world. The
company operates in 41 countries with 16,800 employees worldwide. It has
been in operation for more than 150 years.
“According to both industry analysts and our projections, the market for
solar energy will double over the next five years,” said Dr. Udo Ungeheuer,
Chairman of SCHOTT’s Board of Management. “With this new plant,
SCHOTT Solar, the State of New Mexico, the City of Albuquerque, and
Bernalillo County are taking a lead in answering the growing demand for
renewable energy in the United States.”
Construction of the facility will begin in early 2008, with the plant expected
to be operational in 2009, initially bringing approximately $100 million of
foreign direct investment to New Mexico. This will result in 350 jobs by year
one and a total of 700 jobs by year four. Approximately 80 percent of the
jobs will be production-based; the remaining 20 percent of jobs will be
engineering and management positions.
“The future of New Mexico, the country and the world depends on clean
alternative energy,” said Economic Development Department Cabinet
Secretary Designate Fred Mondragón, “and our economy is going to be
increasingly dependent on foreign direct investment. What we have with
SCHOTT coming to New Mexico is the best of those two worlds.”
For more information visit www.us.schott.com/solar.
Make this the Year You Become a Blood Donor
Since 1970, January has been recognized as National Blood Donor Month
(NBDM). To help ensure an adequate blood supply, the United Blood
Services has joined with AABB (formerly known as the American
Association of Blood Banks) to stress the importance of donating blood.
The need for blood is constant, and volunteer blood donors contribute to
nearly all the blood used for patient care in the United States. If all who are
eligible to donate would do so on a regular basis (three to four times per
year), blood needs could be met and shortages could become a thing of
the past.
Everyone, whether it is realized or not, depends on blood. Every two
seconds, someone needs blood. Each day, patients across the country
receive approximately 39,000 units of this lifesaving resource. This year
alone, as many as five million patients will require blood transfusions, as
accident victims, people undergoing surgery, and patients receiving
treatment for leukemia, cancer and other diseases.
People who are interested in becoming blood donors should contact United
Blood Services to schedule an appointment to donate, or in Roswell visit
United Blood Services at #3 Grand Avenue Plaza, Roswell, NM 88201 or
call 1-888-676-LIFE (5433) or 575-625-9743.
ARTESIA – In the build-up to the 2009 federal budget season, U.S. Senator
Pete Domenici reviewed progress at the Federal Law Enforcement Training
Center at Artesia and received briefings on the near and long-term needs
at the campus on Wednesday.
Domenici, who has championed FLETC-Artesia since its establishment in
1989, serves on the Senate committees that have appropriations and
authorizing jurisdiction over all FLETC campuses, which are part of the
Department of Homeland Security.
Since FY2006, Domenici has worked to secure more than $70 million for
infrastructure improvements at the Artesia campus—including $1.2 million
for a detention training facility and $2.1 million for a trainee recreation
center in FY2008.
“Making sure the Artesia campus is well-equipped and funded to meet the
training demands Congress is mandating remains a high priority for me as I
begin my last year in Congress,” said Domenici, who in October announced
his retirement.
“The 2009 fiscal process is just beginning, so I want to be here to see first-
hand the growth in Artesia and to get an on-the-ground assessment of what
is still needed here, not just in the next year but on down the road,” he
said. “I have pledged to do everything I can to ensure that FLETC Artesia
remains a pivotal training asset for the federal government.”
While President Bush is expected to roll out his FY2009 budget requests on
Feb. 4, Domenici is also working to develop his appropriations and
legislative priorities for the upcoming year. As such, the veteran lawmaker
is identifying policy and funding needs for FLETC and other projects
around New Mexico.
Domenici, a member of the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations
Subcommittee, has enjoyed success in gaining new funding for FLETC
Artesia in recent years, including:
· $45.0 million for two new dormitories (FY2006 and FY2007)
· $3.0 million for an aquatics training facility (FY2006)
· $10.0 million for a firearms multipurpose building (FY2007)
· $8.9 million for a language arts facility (FY2007)
· $1.2 million for a detention training facility (FY2008)
· $2.1 million for a recreation center (FY2008)
During his visit Wednesday, Domenici was briefed on current activities at
FLETC Artesia, including: basic and advanced Border Patrol training;
Federal Air Marshal training; Federal Flight Deck Officer training and
Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement training. He also toured the
campus to assess new and planned construction projects.
Mayor Manuel Madrid remembered for service to Artesia
ARTESIA - Artesia's beloved mayor, Manuel Madrid, died Tuesday at his
home. He was comfortable and surrounded by his family as he passed
from this world into the next, following a prolonged and complicated battle
with leukemia. He was 65 years old.
Madrid was elected by the city council as Artesia's 30th mayor in June 2005
when former Mayor Daniel Reyes was appointed as Division III Magistrate
Judge. He was elected to the office in March 2006.
Prior to that, Madrid served as a city councilor representing District 1 for 15
years, five of which he served as mayor pro tem.
Giving of his time, energy and winning personality wasn't limited to city
government. Madrid served on the Greater Artesia Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors, he served as chairman of the Artesia General Hospital
Advisory Council and served with the Industrial Development Committee,
which was instrumental in bringing the Federal Law Enforcement Training
Center to Artesia. Madrid's longstanding service included a stint as advisor
to Artesia MainStreet as well as serving on the Advisory Council for Our
Lady of Grace Catholic Church. He was a member of the New Mexico
Municipal League as well as a past president, and was active with the
National League of Cities. He served as a member of the New Mexico
Border Authority and was active in the New Mexico Border Health Council.
In 2004, Madrid was appointed to the board of commissioners of the
Regional Housing Authority, Region VI, by Gov. Bill Richardson.
As a native of Artesia with ties to the land, Madrid had a keen insight into
the needs of the community from agriculture to economics. Madrid retired
from Navajo Refining, and brought insight from the oil industry's
perspective. Madrid served in the U.S. Navy and shared a patriot's view
with his friends, family and fellow veterans.
Artesia360 file photo
Madrid served the community with a smile, a twinkle in his eye, an attentive
ear and a sharp mind. He was proactive and forward-thinking, willing to
work hard and ask hard questions for the betterment of the community. He
welcomed visits from his constituents and dealt with their issues judiciously.
He signed innumerable proclamations for community organizations and
proffered sincere praise for their accomplishments. He was always pleased
to recognize city employees for their service and accomplishments. He was
honored to address the public at such events as Veterans' Day and
Memorial Day events. He welcomed Artesia's first graders on their annual
field trip to city hall.
U.S. Senator Pete Domenici issued a statement Tuesday: “I am saddened
by the death of Mayor Madrid. Manuel’s long battle is over, but I believe he
will be remembered for being a strong champion for Artesia. As a long-
time city councilor and then mayor, he dedicated himself to the city and
improving its overall vitality. It has always been a pleasure to work with him,
and I’ll miss our interaction.
“My wife Nancy and I offer Linda and the entire Madrid family our sympathy
and prayers. Manuel had a very evident dedication to Linda, his children
and grandchildren, who will feel his absence most. I hope and pray they,
and all the Mayor’s admirers, will find solace in his life and all of his efforts
on their behalf.”
After receiving the news of Madrid’s passing, Congressman Steve Pearce
released the following statement: “Mayor Madrid was a principled leader
always looking to make things better for the people of Artesia. He took on
the tough issues and became directly involved in ensuring his community
had access to affordable housing, quality education and health care. He
was a dedicated public servant whose contributions will not be forgotten.
“I had the opportunity to become friends with Mayor Madrid during our time
at Leadership New Mexico. I found him to be a passionate advocate for
doing what was right and honorable. Our thoughts and prayers will be with
his family during the difficult time.”
Madrid is survived by his wife Linda; his mother Senaida Madrid; sons
Bryan Madrid, Todd Madrid, and Manuel Madrid, Jr.; a daughter Katrina
Madrid; brothers Santiago Madrid of Espanola, N.M., Joe H. Madrid of
Roswell, N.M., Sammy Madrid of Artesia, and Jerry Madrid of Artesia; sisters
Margaret Soto of Carlsbad, N.M., Martha Marquez of Hobbs, N.M., and Mary
Ann Cano of Edgewood, N.M.; grandchildren Jenelle, Courtnee, Audrey,
Michelle, Daniel, Michael, Marisa, Bryan, Jr., Dominic, Monique, and Nikole;
and great-grandchildren Arianna and Desiray.
He will be missed by his relatives, numerous friends, his city hall family, the
city council, city employees and the citizens of Artesia. But more than
that... he will be remembered.
MySpace to Boost Social Networking Safety for Children
AG King OK’s Nationwide Agreement
ALBUQUERQUE - New Mexico Attorney General Gary King joined AGs in at
least 45 other states Monday to announce that MySpace has agreed to
significant steps to better protect children on its web site, including creation
of a broad-based task force to explore and develop age and identity
verification technology.
The attorneys general advocate age and identity verification, calling it vital
to better protecting children using social networking sites from on-line
sexual predators and inappropriate material.
Attorney General Kings says, “We have been pushing MySpace to make
these changes because of our concern that sex predators were repeatedly
using the site to victimize children.” The agreement culminates nearly two
years of discussions between MySpace and the attorneys general.
Other specific changes and policies that MySpace agreed to develop
include: allowing parents to submit their children’s emails so MySpace can
prevent anyone using those emails from setting up profiles, making the
default setting “private” for profiles of 16- and 17-year-olds, promising to
respond within 72 hours to inappropriate content complaints and committing
more staff and/or resources to review and classify photographs and
discussion groups.
Under the agreement, MySpace, with support from the attorneys general,
will create and lead an Internet Safety Technical Task Force to explore and
develop age and identity verification tools for social networking web sites.
The task force will report back to the attorneys general every three months
and issue a formal report with findings and recommendations at the end of
2008. In the agreement, the Attorneys General commend MySpace for its
efforts to address social networking safety issues.
MySpace also will hire a contractor to compile a registry of email addresses
provided by parents who want to restrict their child’s access to the site.
MySpace will bar anyone using submitted email addresses from signing in
or creating a profile.
MySpace also agreed to:
· Strengthen software identifying underage users;
· Retain a contractor to better identify and expunge inappropriate
images;
· Obtain and constantly update a list of pornographic web sites and
regularly sever any links between them and MySpace;
· Implement changes making it harder for adults to contact children;
· Dedicate meaningful resources to educating children and parents
about on-line safety.
· Review its icon to report abuse to determine whether it should be
modified or replaced;
· Create a closed “high school” section for users under 18.
Solar jobs coming to NM
SANTA FE - Governor Bill Richardson Monday announced SCHOTT AG, of
Germany, will build a solar products manufacturing plant at Mesa Del Sol,
just south of Albuquerque. The $500 million complex is expected to open in
early 2009 and will create as many as 1,500 jobs at peak production.
SCHOTT will manufacture solar photovoltaic (PV) modules and receiver
tubes for concentrated solar plants at the new facility, and will be one of the
company’s largest operations in the United States.
“I am committed to making New Mexico a clean energy state,” said
Governor Richardson. “I am pleased SCHOTT is opening a factory and
bringing more alternative clean energy development to the state.”
SCHOTT is one of the largest solar manufacturers in the world. The
company operates in 41 countries with 16,800 employees worldwide. It has
been in operation for more than 150 years.
“According to both industry analysts and our projections, the market for
solar energy will double over the next five years,” said Dr. Udo Ungeheuer,
Chairman of SCHOTT’s Board of Management. “With this new plant,
SCHOTT Solar, the State of New Mexico, the City of Albuquerque, and
Bernalillo County are taking a lead in answering the growing demand for
renewable energy in the United States.”
Construction of the facility will begin in early 2008, with the plant expected
to be operational in 2009, initially bringing approximately $100 million of
foreign direct investment to New Mexico. This will result in 350 jobs by year
one and a total of 700 jobs by year four. Approximately 80 percent of the
jobs will be production-based; the remaining 20 percent of jobs will be
engineering and management positions.
“The future of New Mexico, the country and the world depends on clean
alternative energy,” said Economic Development Department Cabinet
Secretary Designate Fred Mondragón, “and our economy is going to be
increasingly dependent on foreign direct investment. What we have with
SCHOTT coming to New Mexico is the best of those two worlds.”
For more information visit www.us.schott.com/solar.
Make this the Year You Become a Blood Donor
Since 1970, January has been recognized as National Blood Donor Month
(NBDM). To help ensure an adequate blood supply, the United Blood
Services has joined with AABB (formerly known as the American
Association of Blood Banks) to stress the importance of donating blood.
The need for blood is constant, and volunteer blood donors contribute to
nearly all the blood used for patient care in the United States. If all who are
eligible to donate would do so on a regular basis (three to four times per
year), blood needs could be met and shortages could become a thing of
the past.
Everyone, whether it is realized or not, depends on blood. Every two
seconds, someone needs blood. Each day, patients across the country
receive approximately 39,000 units of this lifesaving resource. This year
alone, as many as five million patients will require blood transfusions, as
accident victims, people undergoing surgery, and patients receiving
treatment for leukemia, cancer and other diseases.
People who are interested in becoming blood donors should contact United
Blood Services to schedule an appointment to donate, or in Roswell visit
United Blood Services at #3 Grand Avenue Plaza, Roswell, NM 88201 or
call 1-888-676-LIFE (5433) or 575-625-9743.
Winter energy assistance $$ for NM
ARTESIA – U.S. Senator Pete Domenici
announced Wednesday that New Mexico is
slated to receive over $717,000 in federal
emergency contingency funding, including
$62,100 in tribal set-aside, to help needy
families and seniors afford rapidly escalating
winter energy bills.
Domenici, as a member of the Senate
Appropriations Committee that helps determine
federal funding provisions to support the Low
Income Home Energy Assistance Program
(LIHEAP), supported the inclusion of $2.57
billion in funding for the program as part of the
FY2008 omnibus spending bill. The U.S.
Department of Human Services (HHS) today
announced the distribution of $449 million for
the program, including $780,012 for the state of
New Mexico.
“Higher energy prices have caused drastic
increases in costs associated with heating and
general utilities, which poses big problems for
disadvantaged families and seniors,” said
Domenici. “Many New Mexico residents have
been forced to absorb these costs, causing
undue financial hardship. I’m pleased HHS has
distributed these funds so that qualifying
individuals can begin receiving some level of
relief.”
LIHEAP is a federally-funded program to help
eligible low-income households pay for their
home heating needs.
Individuals wishing to apply for aid through
LIHEAP should contact their local or state
LIHEAP Agency. New Mexico’s program is
managed by the State Human Services
Department, which can be reached at
http://www.hsd.state.nm.us/isd/liheap.html.
For more information on LIHEAP funds, visit
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/liheap/.
USAF “Roadmap” Includes NM Bases
WASHINGTON – On Wednesday, U.S. Senators
Pete Domenici and Jeff Bingaman reviewed the
mission impact of a new Air Force “Roadmap”
that indicates the types of missions and aircraft
that could be deployed at Air Force bases in
New Mexico.
The release of the Air Force Roadmap shows
future potential impacts at Kirtland, Holloman
and Cannon Air Force bases. The Roadmap is
a long-term plan for providing Air Force
capabilities needed to meet future threats to U.
S. national security, and outlines next-
generation weapons systems and potential
installations where those systems might be
based.
The New Mexico lawmakers noted that the plan
outlines potential new New Mexico Air National
Guard missions at Kirtland in Albuquerque,
while reiterating the intent to assign two F-22
Raptor squadrons at Holloman AFB in
Alamogordo. The plan also sheds further light
on aircraft that could be directed to Cannon
AFB at Clovis to support that base’s Air Force
Special Operations Command (AFSOC) mission.
“This plan is a good and early indication of the
Air Force’s intent to utilize New Mexico’s bases
in the future. We are already moving forward
with the AFSOC mission at Cannon and we’re
funding for the F-22s that will be at Holloman. I
am also optimistic about potential new work at
Kirtland,” said Domenici, who serves on the
Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.
“This roadmap can be seen as an affirmation of
the assets New Mexico offers the Air Force as it
moves to modernize itself.”
“The Air Force’s ‘Roadmap’ bodes very well for
New Mexico. Not only does it confirm new
missions for Cannon and Holloman, it also
highlights a potential opportunity for Kirtland. It’
s clear to me that the Air Force continues to
value our state and it’s important role in our
security,” Bingaman said.
The following is a review of the general and
potential impacts for New Mexico in the Air
Force Roadmap:
Cannon AFB, Clovis
· MQ-1 Predator (Global Vigilance mission)
· MQ-9 Reaper (Global Power mission)
· CV-22 Osprey (Global Power mission)
Kirtland AFB, Albuquerque
· CSAR-X (Combat Search and Rescue
Helicopter) (Global Power mission)
· F-35A Lightning II (Global Power mission)
Holloman AFB, Alamogordo
· F-22 Raptor (Global Power mission)
The beddown locations in New Mexico and
elsewhere will now be subject to input from
within the Air Force, Air National Guard and
Reserves, as well as further fiscal and
operational analysis. Installations that meet
preliminary objective requirements will then
undergo environmental studies in accordance
with the National Environmental Policy Act.
Agents seize drugs, bologna & live birds
El Paso - U.S. Customs and Border Protection
(CBP) officers performing anti-terror inspections
at ports of entry in El Paso, West Texas and
New Mexico made 36 drug seizures this week,
confiscating 6,486 pounds of marijuana in 35
busts and 14.5 pounds of cocaine in one
additional bust.
The largest seizure of the week occurred
yesterday at the commercial cargo facility at the
Ysleta port of entry when CBP officers seized
2,796 pounds of marijuana. The drugs were
concealed in a false compartment in a tractor-
trailer that entered the port from Mexico. CBP
officers at the cargo facility were inspecting a
truck carrying a shipment of Styrofoam cups
when they noticed an anomaly in the
appearance of the conveyance. CBP drug
sniffing dog "Basty" alerted to the front of the
trailer. CBP officers removed a false front wall
and discovered 281 marijuana-filled bundles
inside. No arrests were made in the case.
In addition to substantial drug seizure activity,
area CBP officers made 36 seizures of
prohibited food and agricultural items this week,
resulting in $8,800 in fines being assessed.
Prohibited items seized this week included pork,
pork wieners, bologna, chorizo, raw chicken,
avocados, oranges, tangerines, pears, plums,
kiwi, sugar cane, guavas, potatoes, apples,
mamay, guanabana, honey (w/ honeycomb
containing bee larvae and pollen) and live
plants. Dozens of other prohibited agricultural
and food items were abandoned at the port of
entry by border crossers who correctly declared
their goods and avoided penalties of up to $300
for first time violations.
CBP officers working at area ports of entry
stopped a total of 96 people who were violating
U.S. immigration laws while attempting to enter
the country. CBP officers identified a total of 67
intended immigrant cases (people with
legitimate entry documents intending to
live/work illegally in the U.S.), 16 imposters
(people using a legitimate document not
assigned to the person presenting the
document) four false claims for U.S. citizenship
by non U.S. citizens, six people attempting to
enter the U.S. with counterfeit, fraudulent, or
altered entry documents, and three people who
attempted to enter the U.S. without inspection.
CBP officers this week also seized 9 live birds (4
roosters, 3 chickens, 2 dwarf hens),
ammunition, and undeclared alcohol (11
liters/$435 penalty). While anti-terrorism is the
primary mission of U.S. Customs and Border
Protection, the inspection process at the ports
of entry associated with this mission results in
impressive numbers of enforcement actions in
all categories
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the
unified border agency within the Department of
Homeland Security charged with the
management, control and protection of our
nation's borders at and between the official
ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping
terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the
country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.
Pearce priorities in new session
WASHINGTON – Tuesday, Congressman Steve
Pearce made the following statement on the
new session of Congress and his priorities for
New Mexico:
“I will continue to focus on securing America
through a strong military and border security, an
energy policy that invests in our future, lower
taxes, fiscal responsibility, and new job
creation. A top priority will be ensuring America
remains safe against radical jihadist forces that
seek to attack this country, our allies and our
interests overseas. We must also move toward
an energy policy that makes us less dependant
on foreign energy sources and generates more
clean renewable energy in New Mexico and
America.
“During the last session, the American people
sent a message to Congress saying they are
tired of wasteful spending and demanded their
representatives be responsible stewards of
Americans’ hard-earned taxes. The health of
New Mexico's economy depends on fiscal
responsibility as well as creating incentives and
opportunities for job growth.
“I am looking forward to working with my
colleagues in Congress to achieve these goals.
The new session will bring opportunities to make
New Mexico and the country more free, secure
and prosperous.”
ARTESIA – U.S. Senator Pete Domenici
announced Wednesday that New Mexico is
slated to receive over $717,000 in federal
emergency contingency funding, including
$62,100 in tribal set-aside, to help needy
families and seniors afford rapidly escalating
winter energy bills.
Domenici, as a member of the Senate
Appropriations Committee that helps determine
federal funding provisions to support the Low
Income Home Energy Assistance Program
(LIHEAP), supported the inclusion of $2.57
billion in funding for the program as part of the
FY2008 omnibus spending bill. The U.S.
Department of Human Services (HHS) today
announced the distribution of $449 million for
the program, including $780,012 for the state of
New Mexico.
“Higher energy prices have caused drastic
increases in costs associated with heating and
general utilities, which poses big problems for
disadvantaged families and seniors,” said
Domenici. “Many New Mexico residents have
been forced to absorb these costs, causing
undue financial hardship. I’m pleased HHS has
distributed these funds so that qualifying
individuals can begin receiving some level of
relief.”
LIHEAP is a federally-funded program to help
eligible low-income households pay for their
home heating needs.
Individuals wishing to apply for aid through
LIHEAP should contact their local or state
LIHEAP Agency. New Mexico’s program is
managed by the State Human Services
Department, which can be reached at
http://www.hsd.state.nm.us/isd/liheap.html.
For more information on LIHEAP funds, visit
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/liheap/.
USAF “Roadmap” Includes NM Bases
WASHINGTON – On Wednesday, U.S. Senators
Pete Domenici and Jeff Bingaman reviewed the
mission impact of a new Air Force “Roadmap”
that indicates the types of missions and aircraft
that could be deployed at Air Force bases in
New Mexico.
The release of the Air Force Roadmap shows
future potential impacts at Kirtland, Holloman
and Cannon Air Force bases. The Roadmap is
a long-term plan for providing Air Force
capabilities needed to meet future threats to U.
S. national security, and outlines next-
generation weapons systems and potential
installations where those systems might be
based.
The New Mexico lawmakers noted that the plan
outlines potential new New Mexico Air National
Guard missions at Kirtland in Albuquerque,
while reiterating the intent to assign two F-22
Raptor squadrons at Holloman AFB in
Alamogordo. The plan also sheds further light
on aircraft that could be directed to Cannon
AFB at Clovis to support that base’s Air Force
Special Operations Command (AFSOC) mission.
“This plan is a good and early indication of the
Air Force’s intent to utilize New Mexico’s bases
in the future. We are already moving forward
with the AFSOC mission at Cannon and we’re
funding for the F-22s that will be at Holloman. I
am also optimistic about potential new work at
Kirtland,” said Domenici, who serves on the
Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.
“This roadmap can be seen as an affirmation of
the assets New Mexico offers the Air Force as it
moves to modernize itself.”
“The Air Force’s ‘Roadmap’ bodes very well for
New Mexico. Not only does it confirm new
missions for Cannon and Holloman, it also
highlights a potential opportunity for Kirtland. It’
s clear to me that the Air Force continues to
value our state and it’s important role in our
security,” Bingaman said.
The following is a review of the general and
potential impacts for New Mexico in the Air
Force Roadmap:
Cannon AFB, Clovis
· MQ-1 Predator (Global Vigilance mission)
· MQ-9 Reaper (Global Power mission)
· CV-22 Osprey (Global Power mission)
Kirtland AFB, Albuquerque
· CSAR-X (Combat Search and Rescue
Helicopter) (Global Power mission)
· F-35A Lightning II (Global Power mission)
Holloman AFB, Alamogordo
· F-22 Raptor (Global Power mission)
The beddown locations in New Mexico and
elsewhere will now be subject to input from
within the Air Force, Air National Guard and
Reserves, as well as further fiscal and
operational analysis. Installations that meet
preliminary objective requirements will then
undergo environmental studies in accordance
with the National Environmental Policy Act.
Agents seize drugs, bologna & live birds
El Paso - U.S. Customs and Border Protection
(CBP) officers performing anti-terror inspections
at ports of entry in El Paso, West Texas and
New Mexico made 36 drug seizures this week,
confiscating 6,486 pounds of marijuana in 35
busts and 14.5 pounds of cocaine in one
additional bust.
The largest seizure of the week occurred
yesterday at the commercial cargo facility at the
Ysleta port of entry when CBP officers seized
2,796 pounds of marijuana. The drugs were
concealed in a false compartment in a tractor-
trailer that entered the port from Mexico. CBP
officers at the cargo facility were inspecting a
truck carrying a shipment of Styrofoam cups
when they noticed an anomaly in the
appearance of the conveyance. CBP drug
sniffing dog "Basty" alerted to the front of the
trailer. CBP officers removed a false front wall
and discovered 281 marijuana-filled bundles
inside. No arrests were made in the case.
In addition to substantial drug seizure activity,
area CBP officers made 36 seizures of
prohibited food and agricultural items this week,
resulting in $8,800 in fines being assessed.
Prohibited items seized this week included pork,
pork wieners, bologna, chorizo, raw chicken,
avocados, oranges, tangerines, pears, plums,
kiwi, sugar cane, guavas, potatoes, apples,
mamay, guanabana, honey (w/ honeycomb
containing bee larvae and pollen) and live
plants. Dozens of other prohibited agricultural
and food items were abandoned at the port of
entry by border crossers who correctly declared
their goods and avoided penalties of up to $300
for first time violations.
CBP officers working at area ports of entry
stopped a total of 96 people who were violating
U.S. immigration laws while attempting to enter
the country. CBP officers identified a total of 67
intended immigrant cases (people with
legitimate entry documents intending to
live/work illegally in the U.S.), 16 imposters
(people using a legitimate document not
assigned to the person presenting the
document) four false claims for U.S. citizenship
by non U.S. citizens, six people attempting to
enter the U.S. with counterfeit, fraudulent, or
altered entry documents, and three people who
attempted to enter the U.S. without inspection.
CBP officers this week also seized 9 live birds (4
roosters, 3 chickens, 2 dwarf hens),
ammunition, and undeclared alcohol (11
liters/$435 penalty). While anti-terrorism is the
primary mission of U.S. Customs and Border
Protection, the inspection process at the ports
of entry associated with this mission results in
impressive numbers of enforcement actions in
all categories
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the
unified border agency within the Department of
Homeland Security charged with the
management, control and protection of our
nation's borders at and between the official
ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping
terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the
country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.
Pearce priorities in new session
WASHINGTON – Tuesday, Congressman Steve
Pearce made the following statement on the
new session of Congress and his priorities for
New Mexico:
“I will continue to focus on securing America
through a strong military and border security, an
energy policy that invests in our future, lower
taxes, fiscal responsibility, and new job
creation. A top priority will be ensuring America
remains safe against radical jihadist forces that
seek to attack this country, our allies and our
interests overseas. We must also move toward
an energy policy that makes us less dependant
on foreign energy sources and generates more
clean renewable energy in New Mexico and
America.
“During the last session, the American people
sent a message to Congress saying they are
tired of wasteful spending and demanded their
representatives be responsible stewards of
Americans’ hard-earned taxes. The health of
New Mexico's economy depends on fiscal
responsibility as well as creating incentives and
opportunities for job growth.
“I am looking forward to working with my
colleagues in Congress to achieve these goals.
The new session will bring opportunities to make
New Mexico and the country more free, secure
and prosperous.”
