SEN. EDWARD M. KENNEDY DIES AT AGE 77

Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, the "liberal lion" of the United States Senate and haunted bearer of the Camelot torch after two of his brothers fell to assassins' bullets, has died at his home last night in Hyannis Port at the famous Kennedy Compound, after battling a brain tumor. He was 77.

For nearly a half-century in the Senate, Kennedy was a steadfast champion of the working class and the poor, a powerful voice on health care, civil rights, and war and peace. To the American public, though, he was best known as the last surviving son of America's most glamorous political family, the eulogist of a clan shattered again and again by tragedy.

Sen. Kennedy was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 1965 where he assumed the same seat as his brother, President John F. Kennedy.

His family announced his death in a brief statement released early Wednesday.

"We've lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever," the statement said. "We thank everyone who gave him care and support over this last year, and everyone who stood with him for so many years in his tireless march for progress toward justice, fairness and opportunity for all."

No matter what one's political view, the country has lossed a "political giant" who took upon himself to speak for those who had no voice and lead the charge on domestic social issues such as education, health care, welfare, etc. He was the third longest serving Senator in the history of Congress.

The real question will be who will be selected to replace him?

SUPPORT COUNTY VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENTS

Early voting begins today, August 25th in Doña Ana County for a special election to be held on Tuesday, Sept. 22nd to decide on whether to continue a 1/4%sales tax that supports the county’s volunteer fire department.

Early voting begins today and will continue from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays through Sept. 18, and there will be voting available on on Saturday, Sept. 19, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., according to a news release from the county. All early voting will be done at the Doña Ana County Government Center.

The deadline to register to vote is 5 p.m. today. The deadline to request an absentee ballot has already passed.

If you are a resident of the City of Las Cruces, the Village of Hatch, the Town of Mesilla and the City of Sunland Park you are not eligible to vote in this election. Only voters whose registered addresses are in unincorporated areas of the county will be allowed to votes.

On Election Day, polls open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 7:00 p.m. For a list of consolidated polling places contact the Bureau of Elections at (575) 647-7428.

TRUE TODAY AS IT WAS YESTERDAY

"Values have shrunken to fantastic levels; taxes have risen; our ablility to pay has fallen; government of all kinds is faced by serious curtailment of income; the means of exchange are frozen in the currents of trade; the withered leaves of industrial enterprise lie on every side; farmers find no markets for their produce; the savings of many years in thousands of families are gone.

"More important, a host of unemployed citizens face the grim problem of existence, and an equally great number toil with little return. Only a foolish optimist can deny the dark realities of the moment.

"Primarily, this is because the rulers of the exchange of mankind's goods have failed through their own stubborness and their own incompetence, have admitted their failure and abdicated. Practices of the unscrupulous money changers stand indicted in the court of public opinion, rejected by the hearts and minds of men.

"True, they have tried, but their efforts have been cast in the pattern of outworn tradition. Faced by failure of credit,they have proposed only the lending of more money.

"They have no vision, and when there is no vision the people perish."

"The measure of the restoration lies in the extent to which we apply social values more noble than mere monetary profit.

"Happiness lies not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort."

This is part of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt's First Inaugural Address delivered on March 4, 1933 in Washington, D.C.

GOVERNOR "OPPOSSES" BUDGET CUTS TO EDUCATION

Governor Bill Richardson addressed community, education and business leaders at the Quarterly Luncheon sponsored by the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce.

Richardson, became his comments by saying that he was excited that in joint cooperation with Dona Ana Community College / NMSU and the Las Cruces Public Schools will be offering college level courses to local high school students during their final semesters in the hopes of retaining them for university education.

The Governor made reference to the State's budget shortfall and the impact it will have on school districts in NM.

Earlier, Las Cruces School Superintendent Stan Rounds has said that the local district would lose $10 Million in cuts if the State didn't ensure some funding this year.

Richardson said that he has met with State Legislative leaders to discuss a date and agenda for a special session to be held sometime in October 2009.

Though Richardson said that it was important for the future of NM schools and other critical projects to maintain their funding levels, has failed to answer the question on every ones mind...."How is he going to pay for this and where is the funding source coming from?"

At times the Governor was reluctant regarding the possible cuts, he still said that he wants the special session to only address the financial shortfall facing the State's economy and would only provide items to the legislature to address the budgetary shortfall.

The Governor continued to address the audience in various issues and projects facing Dona Ana County and took the opportunity to speak about the transportation system in New Mexico including the RailRunner and the possibility to have a rail system in Las Cruces to El Paso. He also stated that he has had meetings with the Governor's of Texas and Colorado to discuss a joint ventures in joining the three States in a rail commuter system in the future. However, during his presentation, he continually referred to education. He said that education would be the priority of his final year and a half in office.

Richardson spoke for about 45 minutes and there were no opportunities for the attendees to ask the Governor questions.

I believe that the Special Session will be a challenging one and that there will be opposition regarding any tax increases under the current turbulent economic crisis.

Again, I ask, "WHO IS GOING TO PAY THE BILL?"

JUST AS RELEVANT TODAY AS THEN

"You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift. You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong. You cannot help little men by tearing down big men. You cannot help the wage earner by pulling down the wage payer. You cannot further brotherhood of man by encouraging class hatred. You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich. You cannot establish sound security on borrowed money. You cannot keep out of trouble by spending more than you earn. You cannot build character and courage by taking away men's initiative and independence. You cannot help men permanently by doing for them what they could and should do for themselves." Abraham Lincoln, 1861

GOVERNOR TO SPEAK TO BUSINESS LEADERS TODAY

Governor Bill Richard will be speaking at the Third Quarterly Luncheon today hosted by the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Days Inn & Suites Columbus Conference Center, 901 Avenida de Mesilla.

Admission is $15 for Chamber members for those who RSVP, $17 without RSVP or $20 for non-members and is payable at the door or in advance with credit card. Check-in begins at 11:15 a.m. For information contact the Chamber office at (575)524-1968.

Governor Richardson, will be giving the first State Update for the Chamber. Richardson will speak about stimulus monies that are coming into the state, the budget shortfalls, the possibility of a special session and development opportunities that are growing throughout the state, including Spaceport America and the Rail Runner.

I will be reporting on his remarks later on this blog.

EL PASO ELECTRIC FRANCHISE AGREEMENT TABLED INDEFINITELY

The Las Cruces City Council voted 4-2 Monday to indefinitely table the El Paso Electric Company franchise agreement even though Councilor Nathan Small who made the motion to indefinitely table the item, fully understood the implications of his action that this would lead to having to renegotiate.

Let me state that I was appointed by City Council to serve on the AdHoc Committee to provide direction on the agreement. The AdHoc Committee worked for over 5-months to provide subsitive and innovative ideas which were never included in the franchise's before.

The Franchise Agreement was the result of long and hard negotiations by the City's negotiating teams that went beyond the traditional Franchise issues and included the following unique provisions:

1. The Franchise would establish a unique "rental of right-of-way" calculation instead of the flat 2% flat fee. This could have raised additional revenue for the City and help the City with a more predictable income stream.

2. Involve the City in El Paso' Electric Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) process and long term planning.

3. Establish a Joint Committee between the City of Las Cruces and El Paso Electric to review and discuss technological advances, plans for transmission corridors, prototype rate design, energy conservation and education and other issues that might arise during the term of the agreement.

4. Provide priorities for "critical" infra-structure to be targeted if there is a wide spread and lengthy power outage.

These are just to name a few of the unique changes in the agreement.

What is so disturbing to me and others is that Councilors Nathan Small,Sharon Thomas and Dolores Archuleta, and Mayor Ken Miyagishima - who was quoted in the Las Cruces Sun-News prior to Monday's meeting that he would "recommend a vote to table of the agreement" voted to indefinitely postpone a council decision on a franchise agreement with the utility. Councilors Miguel Silva and Gil Jones voted against the motion to table, and Councilor Dolores Connor, whose husband works for El Paso Electric, abstained.

I believe that in making his decision via the media, the Mayor, sent a clear message to the Council of his decision to table the issue, thereby raising a legal question if this constitutes a "rolling poll" in an indirect mannner.

Mayor stated that while he was pleased with many of the issues worked out in the proposed agreement, he was concerned that the City's ability to take advantage of purchase-power agreements was not included.

"This is leverage, plain and simple. It's all we've got," the Mayor stated directly to me when presenting my comments to Council. He continued, "It would be irresponsible not to investigate it (purchase-power agreements). ...We owe it to our residents to take the time and examine all of the opportunities."

Mayor Miyagashima stated that there could be possible substantial savings to the City and customers if the City and El Paso Electric could develop purchase power agreements. Currently the New Mexico Public Regulatory Commission (PRC) is reviewing the matter and will determine if State laws allows or prohibits such agreements.

Mayor Miyagashima expressed that he was confident that the process would not take more than six months.

However, City Attorney Fermin Rubio, and City Clerk Esther Martinez told the council that an indefinite table can only last as long as the current council remains in office. Municipal elections for three of the seven council seats will be conducted Nov. 3, and any pending action by the current council would only be allowed until Nov. 16, when a new council begins it duties.

"Anything after that would have to be introduced as a completely new matter," said Martinez, referring to Nov. 16.

State Senator Steve Fischmann said, "I believe what we have now doesn't quite get us there," referring to the Franchise Agreement. "This is a good chance to take six months, (and) reach a good agreement. I don't think we're sacrificing anything."

However, Dan Townsend, a fellow member of the AdHoc Committee disagreed with the proposal to table the matter and with Fischmanns arguments.

As stated in the Las Cruces Sun-News by Steve Ramirez in this morning edition he quoting me..."Winter is coming and we don't know how long the PRC is going to take," Camunez said. "Delaying this may hurt the citizens. They (El Paso Electric) have acted in good faith and we (the city) have acted in good faith. We need to go in the right direction."

Dan Townsend added, "I'm afraid some of the objections are peripheral items that do not belong in the franchise agreement." Dan further stated that this could hurt the City economically. "I really think a delay is not in the public interest," Dan concluded.

What does City Councils actions mean for the Citizens of Las Cruces:

1. If no formal action is taken by the second meeting in November, when a new Council will be seated, the franchise agreement would have to be reintroduced.

2. El Paso Electric could seek to have a franchise agreement renegotiated with the City.

3. A majority of the council appears to want more clarification about purchase power agreements before deciding on a franchise agreement. Only the NM Public Regulations Commission (PRC)can provide guidance and legal clarification.

4. The city will continue to operate on a month-to-month agreement with El Paso Electric for at least the next two years or as defined by state statute or legal rulings (Moongate Water Case).

In conclusion, the City Council appointments committees, boards, adhoc committees, etc. however, they won't take there recommendations from this groups, which include City Councilors and decide to make up their own rules as they go along. This is unacceptable. There were 9 open meetings of the AdHoc Committee for public input, however only one member of the public attended most of the meetings. It was not until the June public meeting to present the Franchise Agreement for public review, did detractors appear and participated in my opinion in "grandstanding" tactics. My question to them "Why wait until the last minute.?" The AdHoc Committee would have been willing to work and address, if possible, some of their issues and concerns.

I now question the effective of City Boards, Committees, etc. and the need to waste citizen's time and staff resources on acts of futility if Council doesn't take direction and guidance from it's own Citizens.

I feel that a tremendous about of time, human resources and staff resources to have Council table and important issue as utility issues is very troubling and should raise some serious questions about the motivations of the majority of City Council.

Weren't they elected the "represent" all the citizens of Las Cruces, not just a small vocal minority as we see they do on a regular basis?

I just hope that we haven't lost the wonderful provisions that we were able to add to the unique Franchise Agreement with El Paso Electric Company.

Come November 4th with Municipal Elections, maybe we can use the ballot box to make some clear changes.

MY THOUGHT OF THE DAY

"This country, with its institutions, belongs to the people who inhabit it. Whenever they shall grow weary of the existing government, they can exercise their constitutional right amending it, or their revolutionary right to dismember, or over throw it. I cannot be ignorant of the fact that many worthy and patriotic citizens are desirous of have the constitution amended. While I make no recommendation of the amendments, I fully recognize the rightful authority of the people over the whole subject, to be exercised in either of the modes prescribed in the instrument itself; and I should, under existing circumstances, favor than oppose a fair opportunity being afforded the people to act upon it..."

These words were spoken by President Abraham Lincoln on March 4, 1861 in Washington, D.C. at his first Inauguration. President Lincoln fully understood the rights of Americans and he sided with their right to disagree with government.

I wonder what the media would do to him for uttering these words?

This week we have seen and heard Americans expressing their Constitutional right of "Freedom of Speech and Assembly." Yet, the media and others have "be cried" the public right to voice their objections to their elected representatives concerning the Healthcare Bill.

Though I don't agree in violence or criminal threats, I do agree that we all have a right to express our dissatisfaction with our government....no matter how vocal or loud the dissent may be.

Our elected "representative" or to represent us, their bosses. They are to hear the concerns of their constituents and provide meaningful answers to serious questions.
I am concerned when those "representatives" fail to meet with the people and try to correct their mistakes in failing policies.

The issue is not Republican or Democrat...is about a government "of the people, by the people and for the people."

This week I had the opportunity to attend several meetings in the area including the Border Security Conference sponsored by UTEP and attended the keynote given by Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano whose remarks were eye-opening to say the least.

Congressman Harry Teague attended a joint meeting of the Las Cruces Home Builders Association, Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce and Las Cruces Association of Realtors Boards of Directors and community leaders. There were strong questions asked but there were "no shouting matches" going on. Just democracy in action.

How soon we forget the "rioting in Watts," "the Democratic National Convention in Chicago," "The Million Man March on Washington," "Civil Rights Demonstrations," "Bra Burnings," "Anti-War Demonstrations," and other highly emotionally charged issues that Americans have "LOUDLY AND VIOLENTLY" voiced their dissatisfaction with current Administrations.

When we forget the past, we lose our future. We are a Republic Government formed by our Founding Fathers who understood the "right to object." They lost life, property and all for the freedom to assembly and freely speak.

Let us never lose sight of what makes America Great...our Constitutional Rights of Free Speech, Assembly, Religion, the Right to Bear Arms, etc. We should rejoice in the fact that we can oppose our Government as is our right.

CONGRESSMAN HARRY TEAGUE ANSWERS QUESTIONS REGARDING PROPOSED HEALTH CARE BILL

Congressman Harry Teague spoke to local leaders representing the Home Builders Association, Las Cruces Association of Realtors and the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce who were invited to ask the Congressman about the proposed Health Care Plan Bill.

A number of local business and community leaders gathered at the Las Cruces Home Builders Association yesterday afternoon to express their concerns as to how the Health Care would impact their businesses and employees.

Congressman Teague stated from the beginning in his opening remarks that he has some serious concerns with the legislation and he had addressed his concerns in a letter to the Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi.

When asked if he had read the Bill (which is over 1000 pages) he answered, "I sat for seven (7) hours as it was read to me." He further stated that "no Congressman has the excuse that they didn't know what is in the Bill as they had the Bill read also."

Congressman Teague answered very tough questions from the various leaders in attendance and answered their questions, however some still didn't agree with them.

John Hummer, President of the Chamber of Commerce and owner of Steinborn Realty moderated the question and answer session.

One interesting point raised by Isaac Chavez, Governmental Affairs Director of the Las Cruces Association of Realtors was that there is a provision in the plan to have "surprise" home visits to verify if children are being properly cared for and meet the "parenting guideline" as defined by Congress. For example if you have a child who is overweight, the government can take your child and place them under their "protective services" to assess the child's health, diet, etc.

Congressman Teague responded that their are parents who need to be visited as this area has a high child abuse rate.

At the end of the Question and Answer period, John Hummer polled the attendees as to whether they wanted to have the Health Care Plan passed without any "Tort Reform" legislation in it? The overwhelming majority voted no. When asked if they wanted the Health Care Bill currently proposed, again the majority voted against.

DEPT OF HOMELAND SECURITY SECRETARY JANET NAPOLITANO WILL SPEAK TOMORROW AT UTEP

Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano will participate in the 6th Annual Border Security Conference: Fostering a 21st Century Relationship of Cooperation and Shared Responsibility taking place August 10 - 11, 2009 at the University of Texas at El Paso.

The Honorable John Brennan, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism, Alan Bersin, Assistant Secretary for International Affairs and Special Representative for Border Affairs, John Morton, Assistant Secretary for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Kenneth Melson, Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, David Aguilar, Chief of the U.S. Border Patrol, and Roger Garner, USAID Mission Director for Mexico will also participate in this year's conference. The event is free and open to the public.

LABELING - IS IT A GOOD THING?

I personally don’t like labels. However, when recently asked the question as to how I define myself let me state from the beginning that first and foremost I am an American.

When we try to place ourselves in a box of labels, we diminish who we are. I am “liberal” in some areas and very “conservative” in others. Though I am a registered Republican and have been active in official roles in the past, I don’t hold fast to all Republican doctrines, just as I do not hold fast to all my faith doctrines.

Does this mean I am less a Christian or Republican? Absolutely not! So what does all this mean?

Let me start by using the favorite political "buzz word" today - CHANGE.

The word change has been cheapened today, just like the word love. We talk about change, yet where is it? Change means different things to different people.

To me change means moving forward in a positive direction with common goals, which brings out the best in people. Today’s change is not clearly defined; we have political change, meaning what? The politicians are the same, so where is the change?

The rhetoric is the same. Our members of Congress are still fighting one another. The conflicts are still waging in the world. The economy is still bad. So where is the change?

The real change is us… “We the People.” We bring about the changes through our active participation in the electoral process. We must hold our elected officials accountable and responsible to bring about true changes like ethics reforms and efforts to stop voter fraud and tax-and-spend politicians who have no regard for the long-term consequences of their actions.


Labels are used to warn us of dangers… medicines, poisons, traffic,etc. However,the labels we use are dangerous too, but even more importantly they are divisive.

The next time you call someone a name (label) think about what you are really saying not only about the individual you are labeling, but what it says about you.

God created us to be freethinking and with the ability to reason. However, today we live in a society with very few free-thinking men and women. Instead, many are satisfied with the status quo and are oblivious to what changes are being made that are destroying the moral fiber of this nation. More and more of our civil liberties and rights are being taken from us. Why? Because we just don’t care and are OK in our little comfort zones.

The greatest threat to this country is apathy. This is the true label of who we are as a nation. We have no will to stand up and fight for what is right. We want to depend on others to defend our rights. This is very sad and discouraging.

So, let me conclude in saying that if you want to label yourself and are satisfied with mediocrity, just continue to be apathetic and eventually you will be left without anything. As for me, I will continue to be a proud American and will continue to defend my rights as an American.

MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2009

The Las Cruces City Council approved a Resolution to hold Municipal Elections on Tuesday, November 3, 2009.

The following schedule was approved for the voting process:

• Sept. 22 - CANDIDATE filing date

• Sept. 29 - BALLOT positions will be drawn

• Oct. 3 - LAST DAY for a voter to register

• Oct. 7 - ABSENTEE paper ballot voting begins

• Oct. 14 - IN-PERSON EARLY VOTING begins at City Clerk's office

• Oct. 17, 24, 31 - SATURDAY VOTING AVAILABLE, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the City Clerk's office

• Oct. 31 - last day to vote early

Candidate packets are available at the City Clerk's office.

NATIONAL "TAKE BACK THE NIGHT" EVENT THIS EVENING

The City of Las Cruces,Las Cruces Police Department in partnership with Target Stores invite the community to attend the 26th ANNUAL NIGHT OUT better known as "Take Back the Night" event this evening on Main Street-Downtown at 6:0p.m.

The events are designed to: (a) heighten crime, gang and drug prevention awareness; (b) generate support for and participation in local anti-crime programs; (c) strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and (d) send a message to criminals and gang members letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

This is an opportunity for families to participate and visit with local law enforcement and fire personnel, as well as other community organizations of the community. There will be informational booths, food and entertainment during the event.

CITY COUNCIL TO MEET TODAY TO SET MUNCIPAL ELECTIONS DATE

Las Cruces City Council will meet today at 1:00 p.m. at City Hall.

They will be voting on a Resolution to set the date for Municipal Elections. The date proposed will coincide with National and State elections, November 3, 2009.

The following City Council seats are up for election: District 3 - Dolores Archuleta; District 5 - Gil Jones and District 6 - Sharon Thomas.

This years election will be an interesting as there is much speculation as to possible candidates to challenge Councilors in each district. There will be some hot campaign issues that all candidates will have to address including "Red Light Cameras," "Public Safety," and "Quality of Life" issues.

I would encourage you to consider serving our community and think about running for City Council. Candidate Election packets are available from the City Clerk's office at City Hall or contact Esther Martinez at 575.541.2118.

UNITED WAY OF SOUTHERN N.M. TO HOST LIVE KICK-OFF CELEBRATION

The United Way of Southern New Mexico will host the LIVE UNITED campaign kick-off BBQ from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6, at Young Park.

Attendees will help the organization celebrate the successes of 2008, and welcome the 2009 funded agencies thereby helping the United Way of SNM to build a stronger community.

Cost for the BBQ is $5 per person. Guests are asked to RSVP by Monday, Aug. 3, to 524-7561.

CITY OFFICIALS TO HOLD MEETING TO DISCUSS CITY'S LIGHTING ORDINANCE TODAY AT 5:00 P.M.

The following information was distributed to the membership of the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce:

"The Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors voted unanimously to support the existing City of Las Cruces Lighting Ordinance , Ord. No. 1813, which was adopted Aug. 7, 2000.

"The city will hold a meeting about the lighting ordinance from 5 to 7 p.m. at City Hall, 200 Water St. All Chamber members are encouraged to attend to show their support for the existing ordinance.

"According to (former Mayor) Bill Mattiace, Chamber vice president of governmental affairs, the board decided to support the existing ordinance because it has been adequately received from business owners, residential housing and astronomers for the past 10 years.

“We feel the current ordinance has generated good, steady business for Las Cruces,” Mattiace said.

"The decision of support comes after a recommendation by the Chamber’s Issues and Governmental Affairs Committee that took several months to study the issue.

“We’ve worked on this over several meetings, and we’ve met with Mark Eisler and Councillor Sharon Thomas as well as Oscar Andrade about the pros and cons,” Mattiace said. “In this current economic climate, this would be the worst regulatory thing we could do to business owners.”

"Mattiace added that beyond to additional costs to existing businesses, a more restrictive ordinance would make Las Cruces less desirable to new businesses considering the area. Former Las Cruces Police Chief Pete Hampton, who also serves on the committee, cited safety issues that many businesses might face without proper lighting for their staff and customers as another reason to support the existing ordinance.

"The current lighting ordinance can be found at the City of Las Cruces website at http://www.las-cruces.org/legal/city_clerk/codes/Development%20Code/CH039%20-%20Chapter%2039%20%20OUTDOOR%20LIGHTING.htm.

For more information on this call the Chamber, call 524-1968 or visit www.lascruces.org

CITY COUNCIL TO MEET TODAY AT 5:00 P.M

The Las Cruces City Council will meet today at 5:00 p.m. instead of the usual time of 1:00 p.m. The Council decided to conduct some meetings in the evening to allow for those individuals who work to be able to attend.

Today's Agenda will deal with "Land Use Issues" only.

The public is encouraged to attend and participate.

BRIEF STATUS / UPDATES ON CURRENT CITY PROJECTS LIST

1. Strategic Plan - (Meetings held with Elected Officials and executive staff. Draft report should be submitted by 6/22/09)

2. Sustainability Officer - (Recruitment is in process. Preliminary phases of selection process have been undertaken, interviews to be scheduled shortly.)

3. Las Cruces Center - (Status report provided monthly on second, Regular City Council Meeting)

4. Downtown - (The project design is ongoing with Bohann-Huston, Inc. Work session with City Council regarding Farmer's Market Representatives - Downtown Design Process was held on July 13, 2009.)

5. Impact Fees - (A change order to revise the draft impact fee capital improvements plan (IFCIP) document, to add additional consultant trips, and to add a time and expense budget to cover the cost for implementation assistance was approved by City Council on June 15, 2009. We anticipate that the new draft of the IFCIP will be submitted to the City the first week of August 2009.)

6. Aquatics Center - (Status report provided monthly on first, Regular City Council Meeting)

7. Vision 2040 - (The consultants have completed preliminary drafts of the CLC Comprehensive Plan and DAC Comprehensive Plan. Both preliminary drafts are being reviewed by city and county staff. The consultants are working to complete the preliminary draft of the Vision 2040 Regional Plan.)

8. Grants/ARRA Status - (Refer to Matrix.)

2 LOCAL PHYSICIANS PARTICIPATE IN "OPERATION LONE STAR"

Operation Lone Star 2009 begins today in Southern Texas in the Rio Grande Valley for under served rural communities. The two-week operation offers free medical and dental services to residents in under served areas along the U.S.-Mexico border will run from July 27 - July 31, 2009.

Two local physicians will be assisting in this project this week, they are Dave Padilla, M.D. who is the New Mexico Coordinator for the Medical Reserve Corp with the Dona Ana County / City of Las Cruces Office of Emergency Management and Kathleen Hales, M.D. practices at Memorial Medical Center Family Service. The doctors will be assisting at locations in the Brownsville, Texas area providing free medical service to residents who otherwise cannot afford health or dental care.

Dr. Padilla has promised me an exclusive report and photos of he and Dr. Hales humanitarian mission to South Texas.

OP-ED ON THE PRESIDENT'S HEALTH PLAN

Dems' Plan Is Hidden Tax
Thursday, July 23, 2009
By Jim Scarantino

This editorial was published in today's ABQ Journal.

"Tucked into the Democrats' health care reforms is a carbon tax on every man, woman and child in America . It's not labeled a carbon tax, but that's precisely what it is, for it weighs on anyone who emits carbon by the simple act of breathing. You can escape this tax by earning so little money the government isn't interested in your wallet. Or you can die.

"This tax on breathing comes in the form of mandatory purchase of health insurance, whether you want it or not, and regardless whether you will ever need the coverage you will be forced to buy. The surplus premiums the government wrings from you equal a tax that pays for other people's health care.

"Democrats will make it illegal to live without buying a health insurance plan approved by the politicians and bureaucrats who will oversee the federal takeover of the nation's health care industry. Americans will be required to certify on their income tax returns that they have complied. Failure to answer correctly will result in serious monetary fines. Democrats project collecting over $100 billion in penalties without any obligation to provide some service in return.

"A massive enforcement apparatus will hunt down Americans who have done nothing wrong but mind their own business. It is not inconceivable that the government could place liens on homes and garnishee paychecks because some citizens refuse to surrender their money for government-mandated insurance policies instead of funding higher priorities in their lives, like college tuition or starting a new business.

"I would have fallen into this category of villains when I was launching a solo law practice. I lacked enough money to purchase health insurance for myself and my wife, while also covering start-up and operating costs and a secretary's salary and benefits. To avoid going into debt, I elected to purchase only a catastrophic incident policy. It had a sky-high deductible but a tiny price I could afford. For anything except disaster, we were effectively uninsured. Many small businesspeople have made the same call and survived to tell the tale.

"That legitimate exercise of rational decision-making would be outlawed under the Democrats' plan. A party that bills itself as tolerant and pro-choice has declared it will not tolerate individuals choosing to meet their health care needs as they see fit. Government will now make that decision. Woe to those who resist. The IRS knows how to find you.

"So much for the mantra of “our bodies, ourselves.” Our sniffles, broken bones, sore joints and internal plumbing will become federal issues, though we never invited the government into our affairs by seeking its assistance. The quaint concept of personal autonomy will be relegated to the dim, brutish, pre-Obama past.

"This is the new “culture of coverage.” Instead of promoting personal responsibility and self-reliance, government will indoctrinate its citizens in the merits of hitching a free ride on other's backs.

"Organized calisthenics will involve extending an arm forward from the shoulder, turning one hand to the sky, and holding that pose until free stuff graces the palm. All citizens must participate. Them that's got, give it up. Everyone else, find your place in line.

"This culture of coverage ducks the hard questions our President says we must face. It does not address escalating health care costs, due in no small part, let's be frank, to reckless, ignorant and stupid behavior by rich and poor alike. It will not reduce Medicare fraud or deter defensive diagnoses and procedures. People who over-consume medical services because they don't feel the pinch of paying their own bills won't change. This isn't reform, but an unprecedented grab for money, expanded powers, and control over what should remain very personal aspects of our private lives."

[Reprinted with permission from Mr. Scarantion.]

[Jim Scarantino spent 25 years practicing law, including time as a prosecutor in Philadelphia and New Mexico . He concluded his legal career as the ACLU-New Mexico's lawyer of the year in 2006. Scarantino also served as executive director of the New Mexico Wilderness Alliance and Republicans for Environmental Protection. He currently writes a monthly report for the Rio Grande Foundation. E-mail: jimscarantino@gmail.com ]

LOCAL CONTRACTORS EXPRESS BIDDING CONCERNS

In a Special Work Session held yesterday at City Council Chambers,the City Council met with local construction companies, subcontractors and suppliers involved in the bidding process for major government construction contracts in the City. There has been dissatisfaction from local contractors that there are some serious deficiencies in the bidding process.

Bob Telles, Purchasing Manager for the City presented several recommendations Wednesday to try to correct the problems in the process.

This brings to the forefront the inequities in the bidding process by Las Cruces business leaders who brought their concerns to city council several weeks ago which prompted a yesterdays work session.

City Council will consider the recommendations presented at the August 3rd City Council meeting at 1:00 p.m.

SPACEPORT AMERICA FACES SIMILAR CHALLENGES

Also,there have been similar complaints regarding the bidding process by local/state contractors for the building of "Spaceport America." The current bid process only allows for the hiring of 5% in state contractors the remaining 95% can be out-of-state.

STEVE PEARCE WILL CHALLENGE HARRY TEAGUE FOR CONGRESSIONAL SEAT

Steve Pearce with his wife, Cynthia at his side announced yesterday afternoon that he would seek the GOP nomination for the 2nd Congressional District House seat currently held by Harry Teague. The Hobbs business man addressed about 100supporters who gathered at Rawson Builders to hear comments from Pearce who held the congressional seat prior to his run for the U.S. Senate last year and losing to Tom Udall.

The "old guard" of the local GOP were present and his old campaign and congressional staff from Dona Ana County were among the group. There were a number of young and enthusiastic supporters also, with a strong presence from the GOP 'conservative right wing evangelicals' present.

In his introductory speech, former State Senator Lee Rawson defined Pearce's full name. Steve he said means "the crowned one;" Edward (Pearce's Middle Name) is "appointed protector;" and Pearce means "rock." Rawson went on to say that Pearce was a "patriot, leader, former Veteran, and will stand up to protect the rights of New Mexicans." Using the acronym BET which Rawson explained was "B for balance;" "E for experience;" and finally "T for Trust."

Pearce opened by saying that the "GOP has not communicated well with the American people and has failed to get out their message." He noted that he has known Harry Teague for a number of years and their offices were across the street from one another in Hobbs, NM where both men are in the oil business. However, Pearce said that Teague has failed New Mexico and that it was time for a change.

He said as he looked at Teagues conformist votes and views during his first term in Congress this convinced him that he needed to run again. Pearce said that he was extremely disappointed in Teague's vote for the "Cap and Trade" bill that will "kill jobs in New Mexico."

Pearce admitted that this would be a "tough fight" and that he could not count on Washington for support. His opponent's supporters will use "stimulus money" to "buy favor" from local communities and leaders to help him maintain his seat.

"Tax and Spend" is what has hurt American and the "out of control Congress adding more bureaucracies: doesn't help Pearce went on to say.

Pearce said that he was committed to "fight for jobs for New Mexico, cut spending and taxes, fight corruption in New Mexico at all levels, the revitalization of the U.S. economy, and protect the people and the environment" were among his litany of political challenges.

"I need your help, it will take money, time and volunteers to help me win" as Pearce challenged his supporters to get involved.

CITY COUNCIL AND COUNTY COMMISSION TO MEET IN JOINT SESSION TODAY

The Doña Ana County Board of Commissioners will convene a Joint Work Session with the City Council of Las Cruces to be held on Tuesday, July 21, 2009 at 9:00 a.m. in the Doña Ana County Commission Chambers, 1st Floor, Doña Ana County Government Center, 845 North Motel Boulevard, Las Cruces, NM.

The following items are on the Agenda for consideration:

1. Formation of Solar and Renewable Energy Districts

2. Reflections Regarding Extra Territorial Authority/Zone Participation and Current Joint Powers Agreement Requirements

3. Air Quality and Emission Standards in the City of Las Cruces and Doña Ana County

4. Public Input

The public is invited to attend and participate.

CITY COUNCIL BRIEFS

The Las Cruces City Council met yesterday to discuss proposed changes to the City Ordinances which included the following:

1. City council has approved changes to a City ordinance that will allow animal adoptions at the Las Cruces Farmers and Crafts Market.

2. The Council also approved two agreements with Service Employment Redevelopment (SER) for summer and year-round employment programs for at-risk teens between the ages of 16 to 19.

3. Agreements were reached with with seven non-profit agencies: Casa de Peregrinos, Community Action Agency, Families and Youth Inc., Jardin de los Ni-os, La Casa Inc., Mesilla Valley CASA, Inc., and Mesilla Valley Community of Hope that will provide a combined $160,000 in services to low-income families in the City.

STEVE PEARCE TO ANNOUNCE HIS RUN FOR CONGRESS TODAY IN LAS CRUCES

Steve Pearce will be in Las Cruces today as he formally announces his campaign for Congressional District 2, currently held by Harry Teague.

"Bring Back Pearce Campaign Kick-off" as his supports are calling this event will begin at 5:00 p.m. at the Rawson Builders at 2355 Nevada Avenue owned by former State Senator Lee Rawson.

For more information or questions please call Jessica Perez at 575-805-2106

CITY COUNCIL MEETING TODAY

The Las Cruces City Council will meet today in Regular Session,at 1:00 p.m. The Work Session is to be held in the City Council Chambers, 200 N. Church Street, Las Cruces, NM.

There is a full Agenda today.

Let me encourage you to please attend City Council meetings. There are important issues that are being presented and ordinances being passed with little input from the citizens. The lack of community involvement certainly will lead to passing frivolis and loss of rights due to non-participation.