Thursday, April 9th, 2026
Good morning, Albuquerque. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 9th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Skyline—a local masked hero in blue and white tactical gear—has been patrolling Central to hand out food, water and first-aid supplies to people experiencing homelessness. He began his mission eight months ago and now stores donations in a storage unit to support his work in the community. Albuquerque Journal
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Former Apollo astronaut Harrison Schmidt (private consultant) will sign autographs at Coronado Mall Sunday as part of Space Week while promoting his vision for further space exploration. He recalled his 1984 prediction that humanity would return to the moon. KOAT
- ➤ Yjastros will present Out of Many, One, a flamenco show featuring five original pieces on April 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the National Hispanic Cultural Center (1701 4th St SW) in Albuquerque; follow-up shows are on April 12 at 2 p.m. and April 18 at 7:30 p.m. in Santa Fe. The Paper.
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Farmers along the Middle Rio Grande face a tough season as record-low snowpack and dropping river flows force them to rely on wells and more expensive fuel pumps. The Rosales family in Lemitar said higher costs may push up prices for consumers. KOAT
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ NM officials and local university leaders criticized a federal budget proposal that cut millions from minority-serving institutions (including the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe) last week. Sen. Luján vowed to work with Congress to restore funding and protect vital student programs. Source NM
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ In Las Vegas, foresters will break ground on April 27 at the New Mexico Reforestation Center to produce 5 million climate-adapted tree seedlings annually and restore wildfire-damaged lands + state agencies and local universities will partner on the $8.5 million project. Albuquerque Journal
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ On Monday, the City Council approved a $3 million Local Economic Development Act package to help Mantis Space move its headquarters, research lab and future factory to Albuquerque (bringing 186 high-paying jobs over the next decade). The deal includes plans for a $90 million facility later. The Paper.
- ➤ The NM Department of Wildlife is urging outdoor enthusiasts to stay alert in Catron County after a bobcat and a fox engaged with hikers in the Gila Wilderness (no bites were reported) amid concerns following a bobcat that tested positive for rabies in Sierra County in March. KOAT
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Lovelace Hospital's clinics and providers may soon be out of network for Blue Cross Blue Shield if a contract is not reached by (deadline June 1). New Mexico customers can use other in-network providers, and some patients may keep their current care for a limited time. KOAT
- ➤ Lucy Salazar waited six years for a kidney transplant from friend Natalie Vigil and now serves as a Donate Life ambassador to encourage organ donation. New Mexico reached record donation numbers in 2025 with over 600 people waiting (82% from multicultural communities). KOAT
- ➤ UNM’s Project ECHO connects healthcare providers through weekly virtual sessions to share expertise and improve diabetes care and other conditions in underserved local communities across New Mexico. The program adapts best practices to local needs while bridging gaps in access to specialized treatment. University of New Mexico
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ UNM finalized an agreement with a developer who purchased 38 acres near University and Gibson for Lobo Crossing (the first major multi-tenant retail center in over 20 years) that will bring retail, grocery, and dining options to an underserved area. Construction begins this month and stores will open next fall. KOAT
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NHPA U.S. Open Championship
Apr 10-12 — Mariposa Basin Park — Registration required — Compete in exciting US Open tournaments in the heart of Albuquerque!
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Mental Health Fair
2-6 p.m. — National Hispanic Cultural Center — Free entry — Engage in workshops and activities promoting mental health awareness and resources for all ages.
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2026 Southwest Chocolate & Coffee Fest
3-9 p.m. — Expo New Mexico — Event admission required — Experience the world’s largest festival featuring chocolate, coffee, and gourmet foods with tastings and hands-on classes.
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Twen Live Performance
7-9:30 p.m. — Launchpad — All ages — Experience an electrifying live show from Twen with doors opening at 7 PM.
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Chelsea Handler Live
8-10 p.m. — Kiva Auditorium — Tickets from $63 — Experience an unforgettable live event with comedian Chelsea Handler in Albuquerque.
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Chimayo Tapestry Workshop
Friday to Sunday — Fiber Arts on 4th — Workshop fee applies — Create your own Chimayo weaving tapestry with guidance from an experienced weaver.
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Storybook STEAM Club
10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. — International District Library — Free entry — Engage in hands-on activities blending storytelling with science, technology, engineering, arts, and math.
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Adult Afternoon Book Club
4-5 p.m. — Westgate Heights Public Library — Free entry — Share your passion for reading with the community in a friendly discussion setting.
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2026 Gathering of Nations Powwow
April 24-25 — Tingley Coliseum — Entry fee varies — Experience the vibrant cultural celebration with traditional dancers, singers, and artisans representing over 750 tribes.
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The Crane Wives Concert
7-9:30 p.m. — Sunshine Theater — Tickets from $70 — Enjoy a night of enchanting music with The Crane Wives in Albuquerque.
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Welcome to the Morning Albuquerque, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Albuquerque, New Mexico community. If you like the Morning Albuquerque, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Albuquerque.
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