Last week on the show we talked about Albuquerque’s efforts to become the test site for Google’s new broadband internet service. In the segment, we also mentioned that Farmington is also applying for the project. And, it turns out, the Four Corners city is getting some big time help in its efforts. If you haven’t already seen it, here’s a video with Senator Tom Udall, and Representative Ben Ray Lujan making a pitch for Farmington’s bid. The acting could use some help, but the effort is appreciated!
Word is, Santa Fe will also be submitting an application to Google. I wonder how both the City Different and the Albuquerque contingent feel about the high profile support thrown Farmington’s way? Albuquerque did get a boost of their own from Mayor R.J. Berry. He’s what his video looks like:
Speaking of Santa Fe, the city IS getting some new promotion in places like Florida, thanks to 18-wheeler trucks with advertisements for the city wrapped on the side. Interesting idea, but I wonder if it will actually work. Didn’t they also try that with U-Haul trucks a few years back? And, that’s not the only promotion in the works for Northern New Mexico. Did you know, you will soon be able to vacay at Val Kilmer’s place? If only these walls could talk!
On a more serious note, the economy continues to be big news here in New Mexico. And, the consequences continue to pile up. The latest victim may be hundreds of educators here in the Albuquerque School District. Superintendent Winston Brooks says he may have to cut up to 700 jobs to deal with a projected $43 million shortfall. Someone still needs to explain to me how teachers end up on the chopping block before the district’s bloated bureaucracy. It’s the same thing in Santa Fe as well. Why did we even have to consider reimposing the food tax? Because there are still so many high-paying exempt jobs in and around the Roundhouse, that’s why.
Also in the hopper this week, State Environment Secretary Ron Curry wants the National Nuclear Security Administration to take a hike, and Bernalillo County Commissioner Michael Wiener fights to keep his job, after sending out an insensitive joke in an email he forwarded on to county officials.
And last but not least, the election landscape is starting to take shape here in New Mexico. Last week was the deadline for candidates that did not get enough delegate votes in the preprimary conventions to file their petition signatures to secure a spot on the primary ballot in June. After the dust has cleared, we know a few of the Lt. Governor candidates have given up the fight (J.R. Damron, we’re talking to you). And, we also know that Land Commissioner Pat Lyons has decided to run for the Public Regulation Commission this year, instead of trying to defend his current position. The full list of candidates and races is available on the Secretary of State’s website. All this comes as a new Rasmussen poll is released showing Diane Denish with leads over all her potential republican foes.
That’s just part of what we’re watching this week. What’s caught your eye on this last Monday in March?
