Good morning, Albuquerque.

A WalletHub study rated New Mexico as the worst state for raising a family, scoring 32.69 out of 100 due to low marks in education, safety and affordability.

UNM economist Reilly White calls the result a call to action and says that recent no-cost childcare assistance could help improve future scores.

At the New Mexico History Museum, artist Molly Mendenhall is completing a mural that marks Route 66’s 100-year legacy.

The artwork uses black and white stippling (reflecting its historic look) before shifting to vibrant color to honor her childhood memories of the famed road.

Gas prices reached a new low since March 2021 when the national average fell to $2.73, per GasBuddy.

In New Mexico, the statewide average is $2.53, with Albuquerque at $2.52 and Santa Fe at $2.45 — experts expect prices to stay below $3 for the South and Gulf Coast.

Three members of New Mexico Interfaith Power & Light, a climate justice nonprofit in Albuquerque, started a 328-mile walk from Carlsbad to Santa Fe on Monday, Jan.

12, and they will reach the Statehouse on Feb. 5 to push for stronger climate protections.

A recent traffic study found 662 crashes occurred on Lomas between Girard and San Pedro in four years, and the city is considering removing a lane & installing smart traffic lights to improve safety for residents, though some parents still prevent their children from walking alone.

New Mexico’s bond rating has been upgraded from Aa1 to Aa2 by a national credit rating agency because of smart budgeting and high state reserves—state officials say the move may lower borrowing costs for future projects and boost economic appeal.

Fewer overdose deaths in New Mexico were announced by the Health Care Authority on Monday — an 8% decline from 1029 to 948 in 2023.

The agency is expanding access to treatment, prevention, and crisis response during Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month.

New Mexico native and MLB All-Star Alex Bregman signed a five-year, 175-million-dollar contract with the Chicago Cubs on Monday, Jan.

12 after opting out of his final two years with the Red Sox; the deal includes a no-trade clause and no opt-outs.

Albuquerque Career Fair

9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Albuquerque Marriott Pyramid North — Free entry — Meet live with hiring employers and explore career opportunities.

Gene Simmons Concert

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Backstage at Revel — Ticketed event — Experience an unforgettable live performance by the legendary Gene Simmons.

International District Book Group

5-6:30 p.m. — International District Library — Free entry — Engage in lively discussions about inclusive YA books with diverse characters and themes.

Giant Kaleidoscope Experience

10 AM – 5 PM — Color Wheel Toys LLC — Free entry — Explore an 8-foot kaleidoscope and create stunning visual patterns with various items.

Visit the Giant Kaleidoscope

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Color Wheel Toys LLC — Free entry — Explore an 8-foot kaleidoscope and create stunning patterns with your chosen items.

Functional Programming Through Construction

6-8 p.m. — CG Infinity, Inc. — Free entry — Explore functional programming concepts like pure functions and immutability while enjoying dinner and insights from Cameron Presley.

The Children's Hour

7:30 p.m. — Albuquerque Little Theatre — Cost varies — Experience a powerful live performance exploring themes of trust and friendship.

Stop.Drop.Rewind Concert

7-10 p.m. — Launchpad — Tickets starting at $51 — Experience a live performance by Stop.Drop.Rewind in an energetic atmosphere.

Southwest Indoor Sectionals 2026

8 a.m. — Hit or Miss Archery Center — Early registration fee required — Compete in the NFAA 300 rounds and aim for high scores to improve your national ranking.

WesGhost Concert

8-10 p.m. — Launchpad — Tickets from $66 — WesGhost brings an electrifying performance to Albuquerque's nightlife.