WIPP Hoist Collapse Intensifies Concerns Over Worker Safety

A five-person emergency lift at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant plunged 1,600 feet after its cable snapped during testing, intensifying concerns about aging hoist infrastructure and workplace safety. While no one was injured, union officials and watchdogs criticized the Department of Energy and contractor SIMCO for inadequate transparency and prioritizing waste disposal over worker protection.

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WildEarth Guardians has sued the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for missing a deadline to decide whether the Pecos pupfish warrants threatened-species protections. Native to southeast New Mexico and West Texas, the fish faces dwindling river flows, industrial water use and oil and gas development. Agricultural and industry groups oppose proposed habitat restrictions, citing economic and conservation concerns.

Sherry Robinson: How Fans Saved Coyote vs. Acme—and Why It Matters to New Mexico

Fans helped rescue “Coyote vs. Acme” from corporate shelving, bringing the New Mexico-filmed Looney Tunes comedy to theaters after a lengthy campaign. The film’s box-office success highlights the power of public support while offering a hopeful note for New Mexico’s struggling production industry, whose workers remain as persistent as Wile E. Coyote himself.

Artesia looks to knock unbeaten Gadsden off its perch

Artesia looks to beat Gadsden.

Lawsuit Seeks Federal Protections for Pecos Pupfish After Listing Delay

WildEarth Guardians has sued the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for missing a deadline to decide whether the Pecos pupfish warrants threatened-species protections. Native to southeast New Mexico and West Texas, the fish faces dwindling river flows, industrial water use and oil and gas development. Agricultural and industry groups oppose proposed habitat restrictions, citing economic and conservation concerns.
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Fans helped rescue “Coyote vs. Acme” from corporate shelving, bringing the New Mexico-filmed Looney Tunes comedy to theaters after a lengthy campaign. The film’s box-office success highlights the power of public support while offering a hopeful note for New Mexico’s struggling production industry, whose workers remain as persistent as Wile E. Coyote himself.

Mark Duncan: Breaking New Mexico’s Welfare “Snare Net” and Creating Opportunity

New Mexico’s rising spending has not improved poor outcomes in child well-being or education, argues Rep. Mark Duncan. He says the state’s welfare “snare net” penalizes families for earning more through benefit cliffs, while administrative waste and weak accountability persist. Duncan calls for work-focused reforms, expanded career programs, and electing Gregg Hull governor.

Javier Sanchez: Forget Your Past to Move Forward with New Skills and Perspective

An opinion column argues that past successes and failures should not dictate future expectations. Rather than relying on “in my experience” to predict outcomes, readers should recognize how new skills, patience, and resilience have changed them. The most valuable lessons are the coping mechanisms gained through failure, which can fuel fresh attempts.

Obituaries

Warren Louis (W.L.) Gray passed away quietly at his home in Kyle, TX on June 28, 2026 at the age of 91.

Dub married his high school sweetheart, Dewana Lou Berry, one week after her graduation in 1955.

Vega M. Nilsson

Vega M. Nilsson, a long-time resident of Artesia, New Mexico passed away at home on December 29, 2025, at the age of 87. Vega was born in Brooklyn, New York to Fredrik and Hilda Nilsson,...

Garrett Romine

It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Garrett Walter Romine, who was taken from us far too soon.  Although his time with us was brief, his impact on everyone who...

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Artesia Lady Bulldogs Pull Away from Carlsbad in Eddy County Soccer Rivalry

Artesia pulled away from Carlsbad with three second-half goals to win 4-1 in the annual Eddy County soccer rivalry Tuesday night.

WIPP Hoist Collapse Intensifies Concerns Over Worker Safety

A five-person emergency lift at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant plunged 1,600 feet after its cable snapped during testing, intensifying concerns about aging hoist infrastructure and workplace safety. While no one was injured, union officials and watchdogs criticized the Department of Energy and contractor SIMCO for inadequate transparency and prioritizing waste disposal over worker protection.

Sherry Robinson: How Fans Saved Coyote vs. Acme—and Why It Matters to New Mexico

Fans helped rescue “Coyote vs. Acme” from corporate shelving, bringing the New Mexico-filmed Looney Tunes comedy to theaters after a lengthy campaign. The film’s box-office success highlights the power of public support while offering a hopeful note for New Mexico’s struggling production industry, whose workers remain as persistent as Wile E. Coyote himself.

Artesia looks to knock unbeaten Gadsden off its perch

Artesia looks to beat Gadsden.

Lawsuit Seeks Federal Protections for Pecos Pupfish After Listing Delay

WildEarth Guardians has sued the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for missing a deadline to decide whether the Pecos pupfish warrants threatened-species protections. Native to southeast New Mexico and West Texas, the fish faces dwindling river flows, industrial water use and oil and gas development. Agricultural and industry groups oppose proposed habitat restrictions, citing economic and conservation concerns.

Mark Duncan: Breaking New Mexico’s Welfare “Snare Net” and Creating Opportunity

New Mexico’s rising spending has not improved poor outcomes in child well-being or education, argues Rep. Mark Duncan. He says the state’s welfare “snare net” penalizes families for earning more through benefit cliffs, while administrative waste and weak accountability persist. Duncan calls for work-focused reforms, expanded career programs, and electing Gregg Hull governor.

Greathouse scores three TDs as Artesia routs Deming

Bulldogs in a romp.

Caramel Apple Torte: A Classic Fall Dessert with a Southwest Twist

This Caramel Apple Torte layers tender cinnamon-sautéed apples over a buttery, sour-cream cake, then finishes with a rich brown sugar caramel glaze. Perfect for fall entertaining or cozy desserts, it’s delicious warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Add a pinch of New Mexico red chile powder for subtle Southwestern warmth.

Tina Cordova Brings New Mexico Downwinders’ Story to the United Nations

Tularosa native Tina Cordova brought New Mexico’s downwinders’ story to the United Nations, describing generations of cancer and loss linked to the 1945 Trinity nuclear test. As co-founder of the Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium, Cordova recounted her family’s medical history, advocated for federal compensation, and connected New Mexico’s experience to nuclear-affected communities worldwide.

Scenes from Artesia’s 53-0 win over Deming

Bulldogs win 53-0.

Artesia Downtown Lions Club Honors Four Students of the Month

The Artesia Downtown Lions Club’s Students of the Month include Paisley Phillips, Lucas Atkins, Karli Horner and George Blackburn. Their accomplishments span 4-H, FFA, sports, student leadership and National Honor Society.

Flea Market Tintype May Show Billy the Kid and Pat Garrett Together

A flea-market tintype purchased for $10 may show Billy the Kid, Pat Garrett, and other figures together in 1880.