I am writing today to announce the closure of the New Mexico Independent. After three and a half years of operation in New Mexico, the board of the American Independent News Network, has decided to shift publication of its news…
While environmental activists played their part yesterday during demonstrations at the capitol building, going so far as to dress up as solar panels and to sing the tune of “You Are My Sunshine,” their counterparts, the anti-cap-and-trade contingency who has…
Roughly one quarter of University of New Mexico students are unimpressed with the state’s flagship public school, according to a survey that questioned college students about their higher education experiences.
The New Mexico state jet, or as Gov. Susana Martinez called it “the ultimate symbol of waste and excess,” was sold Thursday for $2.5 million to a retired couple from Anchorage.
Martinez announced the sale at a press conference:
Martinez presented keys to the aircraft to the new owners, a retired couple from Anchorage, Alaska, at a ceremony at Santa Fe’s municipal airport.
“Last year when I was running for governor, I not only promised taxpayers that I would not use this state jet as a personal air taxi, I promised New Mexicans across the state that I would get rid of this symbol of greed and excess in state government. And today, I make good on that promise,” Martinez said.
The new owners, Richard and Linda Felland, stood next to the governor at the airport news conference — the jet as a backdrop with a large “SOLD” sign affixed to it.
“I hear it is a sweet ride but I will just have to take their word for it,” Martinez said.
The state did, however, take a loss on the plane, thanks to the recession. The Richardson administration bought it for $5.5 million in 2005. The administration was asking about $600,000 less than other Cessna Citation Bravos for sale, but the state jet had flown more miles.
The state will save about $500,000 a year on maintenance and fuel. The broker will get a commission for two percent of the sales price, or $50,200.
