Good morning, Albuquerque.

AARP's Community Challenge program awarded a record $8.3M to improve senior housing, transit, and accessibility in Albuquerque, Clovis, and Deming.

Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller said the funds will boost community projects + help older residents age in place.

The Wheels Museum is planning to expand its exhibit space at Rail Yards by renovating former Babbitt and welding shops into a new wing.

The museum seeks between $3.5M and $4M, and a fundraising dinner will be held on Nov. 14 plus support efforts to showcase more transportation artifacts.

HB Construction celebrated its 35th anniversary on Thursday, June 18 and gifted UNM School of Engineering $350k (for a faculty fellowship lasting three years).

The gift will help cover expenses, equipment, and hiring of graduate assistants to boost construction workforce training.

Joe Kee (a longtime faculty member and former division chair) is named interim dean of instruction today at UNM-Gallup.

His appointment comes amid a leadership transition (with an interim chancellor also in place) and a search for a permanent chancellor starting this fall.

Native American tribes secured a water rights settlement that aims to bring billions into infrastructure, but New Mexico & other Upper Basin states oppose provisions that allow leasing water to cities.

Negotiators continue to work on resolving differences to provide reliable water access for community use.

Residents say their names falsely appeared on letters supporting Project Jupiter data center after canvassers asked for opinions at gas stations and grocery stores in Albuquerque and nearby cities.

New Mexico Environment Department is investigating the issue as the public comment period for air quality permits ends July 6.

Gov. Lujan Grisham signed executive orders allocating $3.5 million for firefighting 16 active wildfires across the state, with $3 million to NM Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department + $500,000 to Homeland Security, while red flag warnings and fire restrictions remain in effect.

City officials began demolishing the historic Bliss Building—home to Lindy’s Diner—Tuesday after property owners’ insurance claims were denied.

The process includes asbestos remediation and is expected to take several weeks, with Central Avenue reopening by July 15.

In 2025, New Mexico experienced a record increase in drug overdose deaths largely driven by fentanyl as state and local officials questioned DEA practices — which allowed nearly 300,000 extra pills to enter the market — and are now launching inquiries and considering legal action.

New Mexico United hosts Mexico City’s Atlante FC in a friendly match today at Isotopes Park (7:25 p.m.) as Atlante prepares for the Liga MX Apertura season starting July 16.

The game is Atlante’s final international tune-up before returning to regular season play.

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.

ToonFusion

3:30 a.m. — Manuel Lujan Jr. Exhibit Complex — Tickets start at $99 — Experience the can't-miss live show ToonFusion in Albuquerque.

Los Huracanes Del Norte Live Performance

8-11 p.m. — Isleta Resort & Casino — Tickets required — Enjoy a vibrant night of legendary norteño music and unforgettable entertainment.

Morning Yoga at Los Poblanos

7:00 – 8:30 AM — Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm — $18 – $25 — Start your week with yoga amidst lavender fields and peacocks.

Taco Tuesday - Latin Night

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Overtime Sports Bar & Grill — $7 Cover — Enjoy a vibrant night of Latin music and dance lessons in a family-friendly atmosphere.