Thursday, August 21st, 2025
Good morning, Albuquerque. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 21st of August.
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Two firearms were recovered at West Mesa High School when one was found in a student's backpack during a classroom incident—prompting a school officer to draw his weapon—and a second weapon was recovered in a separate incident that led to a student's custody during the shelter-in-place order with officials noting neither showed intent to harm. KOAT
- ➤ Authorities seized two guns that students brought to West Mesa High School on Wednesday — less than two weeks into the new school year. Albuquerque Journal
- ➤ LeAnna LaMotte stood outside a UNM dorm room and pleaded with 911 for help during the chaotic hours following the shooting — unaware that her 14-year-old son was on the other line. Albuquerque Journal
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The University of New Mexico’s Physics and Astronomy Department celebrated three faculty earning NSF CAREER awards this summer—one for exoplanet studies, one for dark matter research, and one for advanced microscopy that will support new learning opportunities for students. The awards underline UNM’s strong science program and its commitment to innovation and education. University of New Mexico
- ➤ Vice President Eric Scott appointed Miriam Barba and Bree Hawkins as Student Affairs Leadership Interns for the 2025-26 academic year—marking the program's second cohort as they bring campus leadership experience to support Student Affairs initiatives. University of New Mexico
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Last week, a Texas judge vacated the decision to list the lesser prairie chicken as endangered, which removed federal protection from the bird that lives in eastern New Mexico & conservationists worry the ruling may set a troubling precedent for other at-risk species in the Permian Basin. KUNM
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Española Pathways Shelter is fighting to stay open after the city's planning commission blocked a permit needed to run its emergency services—staff say they help 20 to 40 people each day and the shelter will appeal the decision. KOAT
- ➤ Arbitrator Charles Peifer found New Mexico did not meet promises made in a 2020 settlement and an earlier report and issued a second remedial order—he set deadlines for caseloads, licensing foster placements, and reporting incidents, while scheduling three status conferences through January that will invite Governor Lujan Grisham. KUNM
- ➤ An Aztec drilling firm working on Albuquerque's fiber optic project has dropped over $1.8 million in liens filed against city homeowners—according to the New Mexico Department of Justice. This move clears outstanding financial claims and supports the continued work on the city's network. Albuquerque Journal
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2025 DVRC Golf Tournament
7 a.m. — Paradise Hills Golf Course — All proceeds benefit victims of domestic violence — A day of golfing fun with contests to support a vital cause.
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Los Ranchos Art Market
8 AM – 12 PM — Los Ranchos Art Market — Free entry — Celebrate local craftsmanship and discover unique, handmade art and gifts in a vibrant atmosphere.
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Albuquerque Isotopes vs Las Vegas Aviators
1:35-3:35 p.m. — RGCU Field at Isotopes Park — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting minor league baseball showdown in Albuquerque.
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Save Ferris & Friends Live
6:30-11 p.m. — Sunshine Theater — $22-72 — Enjoy an all-ages night of rocksteady with Save Ferris, Rocksteady Pickups, and No Manners.
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Scott Bradlee's Postmodern Jukebox
7:30-10:30 p.m. — Kimo Theatre — $52—$99, VIP Package: $174 — Experience a vibrant mix of classic genres performed live by exceptional musicians, blending modern hits with vintage styles.
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Bop To The Top Concert
8:00 – 9:30 PM — Backstage at Revel — Tickets starting at $75 — Experience an unforgettable performance with Bop To The Top in Albuquerque.
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The High Desert Playboys at the Harvest and Wine Festival
3-7 p.m. — Balloon Fiesta Park — Cost TBA — Experience original Americana and high-energy bluegrass in a festive atmosphere.
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Bellamy Brothers Benefit Concert
6-9 p.m. — Tingley Coliseum — $33.17–$130.75 — Enjoy a special concert supporting Ruidoso flood relief with the Bellamy Brothers and Hooks & the Huckleberries.
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All American Futurity Finals G1
12-5 p.m. — The Downs Racetrack & Casino — Admission info not specified — Witness the excitement of the prestigious All American Futurity Finals relocated to Albuquerque this Labor Day.
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Albuquerque Isotopes vs Round Rock Express
6:35-8:35 p.m. — RGCU Field at Isotopes Park — Ticket prices may vary — Catch the action as the Isotopes take on the Round Rock Express in an exciting evening of baseball.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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