Good morning, Albuquerque.

Several lanes of Interstate 40 were closed for westbound traffic after a multiple vehicle crash near the San Mateo exit in Albuquerque on Tuesday, June 24 at 2:40 p.m.—first responders and police managed the scene while delays were expected.

UFCW Local 1564 reached a preliminary four-year contract deal with Smith’s Food and Drug Stores that would raise wages by roughly $1 per hour for retail and meat workers if approved by union members—this comes days after almost all Albuquerque workers voted to authorize a strike over unfair labor practices. The union will drop charges against Smith’s while keeping them against Albertsons as it plans to negotiate a similar deal with the chain.

The University of New Mexico Office of Academic Affairs announced today that five faculty have been promoted to distinguished professor rank—four from the Health Sciences Center and one from the College of Arts and Sciences.

At Monday night's ceremony at the Albuquerque Museum, four high school graduates were honored for completing the School-Based Violence Intervention Program, an initiative by the Albuquerque Community Safety Department that pairs at-risk students with trained mentors — a program credited with helping one graduate, Andrew Sifuentes, find a safer path after losing three friends to gun violence. The ceremony recognized graduates from Atrisco Heritage Academy, RFK High School, West Mesa High School, and Albuquerque Talent Academy.

County commissioners will promote deputy chief Christopher Bagley to fire chief today at 6 p.m. at the Sandoval County Administrative Offices at 1500 Idalia Road, Building D in Bernalillo following a recommendation by a committee — Wayne Johnson, Michael Eshleman and Greg Perez.

They will also review three agreements with the New Mexico Department of Transportation for over $600,000 in state aid, a land purchase for economic development, a $250,000 renewal contract with the Sandoval Economic Alliance — and a proposal for a $49,995 tourism advertising contract.

After four fires along the bosque, Albuquerque officials warn residents to stay alert for potential arsonists and firework enthusiasts who could spark more blazes on July 4th — officials urge extra caution near the fire-prone areas throughout the holiday season.

U.S. Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer said during a meeting in Santa Fe Tuesday that her office will create an emergency agency to process temporary farmworker visa applications on the spot—she added that the agency will work with Homeland Security, State and Agriculture departments to speed approvals for employers in key industries. The move comes as a response to a backlog that has slowed hiring in sectors critical to local agriculture.

Several governors from New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming and Colorado met in Santa Fe to discuss forming a regional partnership to address post-fire flooding risks amid concerns over FEMA’s future.

Spencer Cox, the new Western Governors’ Association chair, said he will lead the effort even as wildfires continue to threaten communities — a move aimed at improving coordination — by sharing expertise and resources.

Professor Fabiano Amorim of UNM studies how heat affects the body in tough work environments—from Brazil’s sugarcane fields to U.S. construction sites—and he says simple steps like rest, shade and water help workers cope with rising temperatures.

He adds that gradual heat exposure builds tolerance and may even bring health benefits by reducing risks such as kidney stress and high blood sugar.

A new mobile mental health team is now available in Sandoval County to help residents in crisis by visiting them at home; the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center launched the team that pairs a peer support worker with a licensed counselor—offering quick care, safety checks and referrals to further treatment. The program aims to cut unnecessary emergency room visits and adds to similar teams already working in Bernalillo, Doña Ana and other counties.

Outlaw 505 Band Concert

9:00 p.m. — Triple Sevens Saloon at Isleta Resort & Casino — Cost info unavailable — Enjoy classic rock and country tunes performed by the Outlaw 505 Band.

The Talking Hours Live

7-11 p.m. — SIX O SIX studio — Ticket info unlisted — Experience the fiery performances of Albuquerque's own dynamic duo, Mauricio and Karie.

Family Paint Party

12-2 p.m. — Urban 360 Pizza, Grill and Tap House — Enjoy a creative family-friendly paint event while dining on delicious pizza and drinks.

Junior Golf Tournament at Isleta GC

All day — Isleta Resort & Casino — Entry fee required — Participate in a junior golf tournament in the heart of Albuquerque.

Albuquerque Isotopes vs El Paso Chihuahuas

12:05 – 2:05 PM — RGCU Field at Isotopes Park — Ticket prices vary — Watch the Albuquerque Isotopes take on the El Paso Chihuahuas in an exciting afternoon baseball game.

Chase Petra Live Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Launchpad — All ages welcome — Experience live music from Chase Petra in a vibrant setting.

Lavender Harvest Dinner

5:30 p.m. — Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm — Cost available upon inquiry — Experience a sensory feast with lavender-infused dishes and live music in a stunning organic setting.

Comedy Show with Talon Saucerman and David Gamble

7-10 p.m. — The 377 Brewery — Entry fee applies — Enjoy a night of laughter with renowned comedians showcasing their unique styles.

Summer Vendor Fair

12:00–4:00 p.m. — Casa Rondeña Winery — Free entry — Enjoy fine wine, local artisan goods, and delicious food in a picturesque setting.

Flor de Toloache Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Albuquerque, NM — $24, $34, & $44 — Experience the Latin Grammy® winning all-female mariachi ensemble redefining traditional music.