So much sun
New Mexico could up the ante on economic development from the solar industry, says a new report from the American Jobs Project. The nonprofit's recommendations—issued after an announcement of new federal solar tariff—include improving access to capital and better commercialization of technology from labs and universities. But not every community ($) in the state says the climate is right. San Juan College discontinued its solar program over high costs and low enrollment.
ICE Trap
The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency conducted workplace raids at 63 locations in New Mexico, including at least three in Santa Fe this spring. But officials and employers alike are mum about who was targeted and why. Insiders tell SFR the city's sanctuary status might lead to increased audits like this in the area.
Count and log
Meanwhile, New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas joined other state and municipal officials to sue the federal government over a plan to add a citizenship question to the US Census. Balderas said the state could lose federal funding for programs such as Medicaid if people are afraid to complete the Census.
Smooth air
The airport in Santa Fe isn't immediately destined for a $40 million improvement proposed last year, but instead it's getting a few key renovations aimed at making the passenger experience more modern.
This is your rifle
Santa Fe Public Schools took a symbolic stance Tuesday night to end its use of money from the National Rifle Association to fund Junior ROTC extracurricular programs. School board members say they can find the money, about $4,000, some other way. Parents of students who learned marksmanship disagree ($).
Finally recognized
The family of Navajo Code Talker Adolphe Nagurski accepted a posthumous Congressional Silver Medal ($) for his service at an Albuquerque ceremony Wednesday. They attempted to obtain the medal for more than a decade after Nagurski missed the first award ceremony in 2001, and finally shook it loose with help from Sen. Martin Heinrich.
Rio war
A federal judge from Iowa is the new special master in the US Supreme Court fight between Texas, New Mexico and Colorado over water in the Rio Grande. The stakes are high, reports journalist Laura Paskus, and if New Mexico loses, huge fines and agricultural challenges will ensue.
A dry, dry
Speaking of which, the US Department of Agriculture has declared 17 of New Mexico's 33 counties primary natural disaster areas due to losses and damages caused by a recent drought. Weather folks aren't calling for hints of rain until at least Saturday.
Correction
Oops! Yesterday we pointed a new bar in the El Rey Inn in Santa Fe, but the owners are from California. They bought it from the Texans we mentioned.
Thanks for reading! The Word listened to relentless chirping as the sun came up today.The birds have a lot to say.
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