Good morning, Albuquerque.

New Mexico's unemployment rate rose to 4.9% in April, up from 4.1% a year ago, according to new labor market data.

Nonagricultural payrolls increased by 400 jobs over the past year as private-sector gains offset public-sector declines.

Carol Cochran, a longtime accountant who pursued a law degree in 2022, now practices employment and Native American law at Wiggins, Williams and Wesenberg, P.C.

She teaches at UNM (EMBA program) and sits on the UNM Foundation Board, earning accolades including a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2025.

Fire officials advise residents to follow the Ready, Set, Go! program by clearing defensible space around homes, assembling emergency kits, and planning evacuation routes as wildfires become more likely.

Stay alert for updates from local experts.

Fire officials have raised Albuquerque's fire danger level to Very High due to risky weather conditions — AFR has activated Level 2 Open Space Patrols through July 20 while extra brush trucks will deploy from July 2 through 5 as Stage 1 Fire Restrictions remain in effect.

Jemez Pueblo Governor John Galvan said the McCauley Springs Fire—at 150 acres with no containment—threatens cultural sites near Battleship Rock and has prompted evacuations and closures, while multiple agencies coordinate air and ground efforts to protect historic landmarks.

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham called for a criminal probe of the DEA after an investigation found that from 2023 to 2025 fentanyl shipments kept moving in NM & her office linked the lapse to overdose deaths.

She asked Attorney General Raúl Torrez to review possible state law violations.

Officials across New Mexico are rebuilding the state’s behavioral health system, yet some regional leaders are seeking more time to meet unclear goals.

In region 12 (covering Otero County, Lincoln County, and the Mescalero Apache Tribe), planners received a 60-day extension to align local input before finalizing a proposal that could fund a new facility with $6 million.

An Environmental Working Group report found that only 20% of the 2,990 sunscreens tested provide safe UVA and UVB protection; the May 19 release lists top baby, child and recreational formulas that Albuquerque shoppers may consider.

The guide highlights formulations avoiding harmful chemicals + improves skin safety.

Operation Cool Down 2026 has made pools, splash pads, and community centers available in Albuquerque this week to help residents beat extreme heat.

Kids (17 and under swim free on Sundays) and individuals facing homelessness can use these safe spaces during the rising temperatures.

Former NHL player Zack Stortini was hired as the first head coach of the New Mexico Goatheads when GM Jared Johnson announced the decision on Saturday, June 20.

The team unveiled new home and away jerseys featuring desert red and Rio Grande blue — a design aimed to excite fans.

Bob Dylan Concert

6-9:30 p.m. — Sandia Resort & Casino — Tickets required — Experience the legendary Bob Dylan in a stunning casino amphitheater setting.

Intermediate Nålbinding: Finnish-Style Mittens Workshop

— Time Range — Fiber Arts on 4th — Cost info not provided — Learn to create cozy Finnish-style nålbound mittens with expert guidance and customizable patterns.

Dads and Daughters Hairstyling Class

3-5 p.m. — Plata Coffee — Free entry — Bond with your daughter while learning fun hairstyling techniques.

International Friendly - Atlante FC vs New Mexico United

7:25-9:00 p.m. — RGCU Field at Isotopes Park — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an exciting international friendly as New Mexico United faces Liga MX side Atlante FC.

Comedy Madness featuring Michael Quu

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Hyena's Comedy Nightclub — Ticket information not provided — Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian Michael Quu at Hyena's Albuquerque.

NB Ridaz Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Historic El Rey Theater — Check local listings for ticket prices — Experience the WORLDS COLLIDE Tour featuring Phora, NB Ridaz, Big Gemini, and Bookie.

Lavender Brunch Celebration

9:30-11 a.m. — Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm — Check website for pricing — Indulge in lavender-inspired dishes and cocktails while exploring the beauty of summer harvests.

Official FC Barcelona Soccer Camp

8 a.m. – 2 p.m. — APS Soccer Complex — $100 off registration with promo code — Train with official Barça coaches and learn the unique Barça methodology.

Taco Tuesday - Latin Night

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Overtime Sports Bar & Grill — $7 Cover — Dance the night away with Cumbia lessons and lively Latin music from DJ Gabriel Goza & Friends.

Ascension Suspension Summer Hangout

8 p.m. — Sunshine Theater — Free entry — Unofficial pre-NM Tattoo Convention kickoff featuring an exciting lineup of local music.