Good morning, Albuquerque.

Rainbow Ryders and UNM Children's Hospital unveiled Hope Rising, a 300,000 cu ft hot air balloon, on Tuesday, July 14 at University Stadium; it will soon carry 12 to 14 passengers over Albuquerque and debut at the International Balloon Fiesta from Oct.

3 & 11.

The Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce has named Roberta Ricci as its new president and CEO starting Monday.

A South Valley native — who spent four years with the chamber — Ricci will lead efforts to support local entrepreneurs and expand trade partnerships.

Albuquerque native Tom Broderick, managing principal at Baker Tilly, built his career from a local family firm to leading national accounting teams by drawing on lessons from Marquette and hands-on experience with local business leaders (he cites early Lobo game memories as inspiration).

Albuquerque Museum’s new exhibition The Other Route 66: 100 Years of People, Identity, and Place in Albuquerque — curated by Alicia Romero — explores diverse local narratives along Route 66 with over 400 historic objects and public programs on view through Jan.

3.

Diné sculptor Jazmin Novak blends glass & metal with traditional animal stories in her artwork.

Her pieces are on view at Harwood Art Center, and her solo exhibition Close to Home will open with a reception on Friday, Aug. 7 at Big Happy Gallery in Santa Fe.

Albuquerque Public Schools urges families to register students via ParentVUE for the 2026-27 school year and update contact details before classes begin.

First through 12th graders return on Aug. 7 (pre-K and kindergarten start on Aug. 11) to secure vital school notifications.

After the Interior Department revised the Endangered Species Act to narrow protections for the Mexican spotted owl, logging advocates in New Mexico expect to boost timber operations in forests like those in Lincoln County.

Conservation groups argue the change threatens habitats and may worsen wildfire risks amid legal challenges.

At a Water and Natural Resources Committee hearing, NM environment officials urged setting limits on contaminants in produced water from fracking, saying unidentified chemicals must be reduced to non-detectable levels before expanding its use; they expect the Water Quality Control Commission to schedule a hearing in spring or summer.

Bernalillo County and the city have cleared 4 tons of debris from homeless encampments and brush in the bosque between Rio Bravo Boulevard and I-40 to reduce fire hazards.

Officials said crews cleared 31 sites and are offering resources to help displaced individuals.

The American Academy of Pediatrics introduced the ‘521 and zero’ plan to help families tackle childhood obesity, urging eating at least five servings of fruits & vegetables daily, limiting screen time to two hours, engaging in one hour of physical activity, and avoiding sugary drinks, according to Dr. Barry Ramo.

University of New Mexico Hospital announced it will end dental, medical, and behavioral services at Metropolitan Detention Center next July 2027 when its four-year contract expires, and Bernalillo County and the hospital will work together on a planning process to maintain patient care continuity.

Rufus Wainwright Concert

7-10 p.m. — National Hispanic Cultural Center — Book today — Experience the unique musical artistry of Rufus Wainwright live on stage.

Albuquerque Isotopes vs. Sacramento River Cats

6:35-7:35 p.m. — RGCU Field at Isotopes Park — $7 parking — Enjoy a thrilling Minor League Baseball game with Mariachis de Nuevo México entertainment and post-game fireworks.

World Cup Final Watch Party

1-3:30 p.m. — Historic Lobo Theater & Event Center — Free entry — Experience the excitement of the World Cup Final surrounded by fellow fans on multiple screens.

Travis Larson Live with Local Acts

7-11 p.m. — Juno Brewery — 21+ (minors ok with parent) — Experience the intricate sounds of acclaimed prog rock guitarist Travis Larson alongside Albuquerque's local talents.

Round Rock Express vs. Albuquerque Isotopes

6:35-7:35 p.m. — RGCU Field at Isotopes Park — $7 parking — Come cheer on the Albuquerque Isotopes as they take on the Round Rock Express!

First Responder Night

5-7:35 p.m. — RGCU Field at Isotopes Park — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy a Guns vs Hoses softball game followed by a thrilling baseball match for a great cause.

Monthly Book Meetup: Discussing 'The Day of the Triffids'

11 a.m. — Steel Bender Brewyard — Free entry — Join in on a lively discussion about one of the first post-apocalyptic novels ever written.

Round Rock Express vs. Albuquerque Isotopes

1:35-2:35 p.m. — RGCU Field at Isotopes Park — Free lunch bags — Cheer on the Isotopes as they take on the Express in a fun-filled baseball afternoon.

Albuquerque Speed Dating for Ages 25-45

7-9 p.m. — Santa Fe Brewing Company — Ticket required — Meet up to 12 singles in a fun and friendly speed dating atmosphere.

2026 Dive-In Movies Film Fiesta

7 p.m. — Hotel Zazz — Free entry — Celebrate creativity with short films showcased poolside under the stars.