Good morning, Albuquerque.

UNM researchers found that ancient Maya communities in tropical Belize farmed maize by 6,000 years ago and adjusted their practices to changing climates (the study appears in Nature Communications Earth and Environment).

Albuquerque artist Travis Bruce Black created the 2026 International Balloon Fiesta poster featuring New Mexico’s state bird to celebrate local spirit.

The artist, who has painted birds for over 15 years (with a hidden roadrunner detail), said the print is sold online and at the merchandise tent.

Globe-trotting balloonists from 18 countries are gathering for the Flight of Nations at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

British pilot Peter George—a veteran since 1990—is set to launch his Union Jack balloon on its farewell tour as Japanese champion Yudai Fujita brings his family to continue the tradition.

Monday night, Los Ranchos de Albuquerque lit up Route 66 with 66 glowing Globitos to celebrate its 100th birthday.

The free event brought families and local vendors together with live music, food trucks, and kids’ stations — a vivid nod to the town’s rich history.

Christian Guerrero surprised Susie Sass at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta by proposing amid hundreds of hot air balloons, fulfilling her lifelong wish.

The couple, who met through mutual friends in Denver, now plans to enjoy their engagement + plan their wedding.

A UNM study from the James & Gail Ellis School of Business Leadership finds that women who share negative gossip are rated as more capable than men in surveys of 272 student teams.

Researchers say the findings may prompt companies to refine leadership selection.

On Sept. 3, UNM, UNM Law and the State Bar Young Lawyers Division launched a new pre-law mentorship initiative that pairs undergraduates with law students and young professionals.

The program, the first of its kind, aims to help students navigate the path to law school.

Male tarantulas are emerging from their burrows as monsoon rains signal fall mating season; scientists note that eight species risk starvation and predation while searching for females, with sightings near Taos.

New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez challenged FERC's review of Energy Transfer's proposed Green Chile Project pipeline, arguing on Monday that the review overlooked key environmental impacts from the Project Jupiter data center in Doña Ana County (state trust land rejections have also delayed plans until 2027).

The state's behavioral health committee approved all 13 regional plans Tuesday under Senate Bill 3.

Leaders in regions (including Mora, San Miguel, Guadalupe, Lincoln, and Otero counties) expect the nearly $13.5 million funding to boost services across local communities.