Regional

By KRWG News

New Mexico – New Mexico has been awarded $382,000 in federal stimulus funds to better plan for emergency disruptions in the state's energy supply.

The state plans to use the money to strengthen and expand the State Energy Emergency Plan, including how to best incorporate new energy sources and smart grid technology into reducing potential supply disruptions.

State officials said Monday the plan would address everything from downed power lines to blizzards that stop the delivery of propane in rural areas.

By KRWG News

New Mexico – Thousands of New Mexicans have signed up as organ donors following the unveiling of a new Web site and online donor registry.

The site and registry were created with a $115,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It's a collaborative effort between the state Motor Vehicle Division, New Mexico Donor Services and New Mexico Lions Eye Bank.

By KRWG News

Las Cruces – Border law enforcement agencies along the New Mexico-Mexico border are getting $375,000 from the federal government to curb smuggling, drug trafficking and other crime.

U.S. Sen. Jeff Bingaman announced the funding Monday.

The New Mexico Democrat said the funding will provide much needed support given that agencies in southern New Mexico continue to see their resources and manpower stretched thin due to ongoing drug and smuggling activity in the area.

By KRWG News

Alamogordo – Alamogordo city commissioners have chosen a McAlester, Okla., man as the new city manager in the southern New Mexico city.

Roath, who was selected Monday, was one of four finalists.

He will begin the job Oct. 5.

Mayor Ron Griggs says Roath seemed like the best fit for the community.

Roath has been city manager in McAlester since February 2007. Previously, he was city manager in Wylie, Texas; North Port, Fla.; and Oxford, Ohio.

By KRWG News

Las Cruces – California and New Mexico companies are planning to build a $130 million, 22-megawatt photovoltaic solar plant near Elephant Butte.

The plans by San Francisco-based BP Solar and EnergyNovo of Elephant Butte were announced Monday.

They say the plant could be in operation by next year, employing 50 to 100 people.

Officials say the 160-acre site will be BP Solar's first New Mexico plant.

The companies hope to serve Spaceport America and other commercial and residential areas.

By KRWG News

Las Cruces – Every Monday at 7:51am, Fred Martino speaks with Las Cruces Sun News Business Editor Brook Stockberger.

By KRWG News

El Paso – Texas drivers are going to have to buckle up and pipe down under new driving laws that go into effect Tuesday.

For the first time, everyone in a vehicle will need to wear a seat belt not just those in the front seat or younger than 15.

Drivers also must secure children younger than 8 in car safety seats, not just those 4 and younger.

And, talking on a cell phone while driving in a school zone will no longer be allowed.

By Marco Grajeda

Las Cruces, NM – With state officials preparing to make spending cuts across the board, two groups concerned with an increase in crime, are urging Governor Bill Richardson to make some exemptions. KRWG's Marco Grajeda has more.

By KRWG News

By KRWG News

By KRWG News

By KRWG News

Lordsburg – The State Land Office has sold 25 acres of state trust land near Interstate 10 in Hidalgo County for $750,000 to federal officials who are planning to build a Border Patrol station.
The facility will accommodate up to 350 agents and employees. It will have an administration building, vehicle maintenance shop and fueling station, equestrian center, dog kennels and a firing range.
State Land Commissioner Patrick Lyons says there's a possibility the station also could include a heliport pad.

By KRWG News

By KRWG News

By KRWG News

New Mexico – A dark cloud over Gov. Bill Richardson's political future has lifted after the federal government's decision against indictments in a pay-to-play investigation that prompted the governor to withdraw his nomination as U.S. commerce secretary earlier this year.

Political analysts said the yearlong probe's end could even revive Richardson's chances of finding a place in President Barack Obama's administration in the future. The governor's second term expires at the end of 2010 and he can't seek re-election.