Morning
Albuquerque
Thursday, February 19th, 2026
Good morning, Albuquerque. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 19th of February.
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The University of New Mexico, Sandia, and Los Alamos launched the Quantum New Mexico Institute in January 2024 to boost quantum research, industry innovation, and workforce training. The initiative seeks sustained state and federal funds to secure New Mexico’s leadership in quantum science. University of New Mexico
- ➤ UNM art history professor Ray Hernández-Durán was named Regents’ Professor after 22 years of teaching and research, earning a three-year stipend for his work. The award recognizes his excellence and community impact at the College of Fine Arts. University of New Mexico
- ➤ Four education bills passed the Legislature and now move to Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s desk; the set covers changes in math teaching, teacher residency pay, a new special education office, and regent nomination process, with the governor set to act by March 11. Albuquerque Journal
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ A new bipartisan poll finds that 85% of New Mexico voters see rollbacks of land, water and wildlife protections as a serious problem — nearly three-quarters favor conservation over expanded energy development. The survey, which gathered over 3,400 local responses, was conducted from Jan. 2 to Jan. 18. KUNM
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Former Attorney General Gary King clarified in an interview that he did not know the charter flight (taken from Santa Fe to Washington, D.C. in September 2014) was linked to Epstein, explaining that former Governor Bill Richardson arranged the flight for an important union meeting during his gubernatorial run. KOAT
- ➤ A public hearing at the UNM campus saw local residents voice concerns over a potential $11.5 billion sale between PNM+Blackstone, with critics warning the deal could drive up electric rates. The proposal remains under review as the commission accepts public input until May. KUNM
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ UNM Women’s Ice Hockey Club finished its first season as the state’s first collegiate women’s hockey team and will host a recruitment camp this spring at the McDermott Athletic Center in Rio Rancho. The student-run team is growing local girls’ sports by building community partnerships + sponsorship outreach. University of New Mexico
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Led Zepagain Tribute Concert
6:30-11:30 p.m. — Historic Lobo Theater & Event Center — Check event page for ticket info — Experience the sounds of Led Zeppelin brought to life by the ultimate tribute band.
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Opera Southwest: Aida
2-6 p.m. — Albuquerque Journal Theater — Check local listings — Experience the grandeur of Verdi's masterpiece with stunning performances and unforgettable moments.
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Local Love Art Show
7 AM – 3 PM — Los Ranchos Bakery — Free entry — Explore artworks from over 15 local artists of all ages at this community-driven art show.
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Hayden Coffman Concert
7-9 p.m. — The Dirty Bourbon — Ticket information not provided — Experience the soulful voice of rising country star Hayden Coffman in an intimate setting.
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Networking Visitors Day: Rio Rancho Pearl Chapter
4-5:30 p.m. — M'tucci's Moderno — Free entry — Experience face-to-face business networking with a purpose and support the community.
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Veteran & Friend Evening at Animante de Rondeña
6-8 p.m. — Casa Rondeña Winery — No cost information — A relaxed evening of connection and camaraderie for veterans and their guests.
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Bring-Your-Own-Game Social
4-5:30 p.m. — Juan Tabo Public Library — Free entry — Connect with fellow game lovers to play and teach a variety of board and card games.
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Dan Kelly Live Performance
5-11 p.m. — Launchpad — Tickets required — Experience the Anthem Tour featuring Dan Kelly in an intimate acoustic setting filled with personal stories and songs.
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Connecting Mosaic Artists: Building Community Conference
12 PM - 4 PM — Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town — $425-$475 — Engage with fellow mosaic artists through workshops, social events, and a juried exhibition in beautiful Albuquerque.
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Jesús Muñoz Flamenco Performance
7:30-8:30 p.m. — Flamenco Works, Inc. — $10 off with a friend — Experience a captivating blend of traditional flamenco and modern influences in a celebration of love and passion.
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