Good morning, Albuquerque.

New Mexico food banks reported a sharp increase in veteran visits after SNAP rule changes removed exemptions, leaving spots like the Albuquerque Veteran Integration Services food pantry struggling to meet rising demand.

Officials noted that fewer resources are available as grocery and fuel costs have soared.

The 37th Annual KOATs for Kids drive is accepting new coat donations for K-12 students through drop-off sites across the state.

Donors can bring coats from Oct. 19 until Nov. 22 at locations including Albertson’s Market + other partner businesses.

The Women’s Resource Center at UNM partners with Popejoy Hall to mark Domestic Violence Awareness Month by lighting the building purple, with Purple Thursday scheduled for Oct.

22. The event invites community members to wear purple and learn about available survivor resources (a local effort to enhance campus awareness).

On Oct. 8, Girl Scouts of New Mexico Trails sold Camp Rancho del Chaparral for $4.7 million to the Pueblo of Jemez, which said the camp will be used for education, recreation, mental health and community retreats.

This is a Haunted House* is an immersive performance at North Fourth Theatre that blends horror, comedy and interactive storytelling, where visitors become part of the show; it runs Oct.

9 through 31 with 'splash the audience' events on Thursdays.

Albuquerque Public Schools will hold a series of community meetings to gather input on right-sizing after a 28% enrollment drop—the next session is on Oct.

22 at Del Norte High School’s cafeteria at 6 p.m.

UNM’s 2026 Research and Discovery Week runs Nov.

2-6 and offers over 50 events such as workshops + lectures, interactive exhibits, and a keynote by Setso Metodi. Lobo faculty, staff, students and community members can join festivities at campus venues including the SUB and PAIS.

A hearing on whether NMED will issue an air quality permit for Project Jupiter’s data center power source is set for 9 a.m. Dec.

7 at the Sunland Park Multi-Generational Center with public comments that day, while additional sessions will occur Oct. 26 and Oct. 29.

New Mexico wildlife managers have killed 307 black bears since April as they address rising bear conflicts caused by a drought-stricken food supply, and officials urge residents to secure garbage and birdfeeders (common attractants) to curb future incidents.

Local farmer Johnny Reid says the Pecos River still flows today — though growing oilfield activity and drought stress pose challenges for future water supplies.

State officials are testing wastewater treatment to ease shortages while local farms remain cautious about long-term water quality.

The Lobos rallied for a 21-10 win over Hawaii on Saturday night in Honolulu despite 16 penalties and a key injury to quarterback James Laubstein, improving to 5-1 with a crucial trick play and a go-ahead touchdown run by Scottre Humphrey.

The New Mexico Lobos swimming and diving team captured their first win of the season on Friday, Oct.

16 when they beat UTRGV 184–110 at the UNM pool; the 74-point margin marked their largest against a Division I opponent since Jan. 2020, highlighting Elsa Reel and Sophia Corder.

The Lobos defeated the Washington State Cougars 92-64 at The Pit on Oct.

18 in a second exhibition game, with Tenette scoring early and Hall hitting key three-pointers. Coach Olen said the team plans to build on their play ahead of their matchup on Oct. 25.

After an early loss in the first set, the Lobos bounced back on Saturday night with a 3-1 win at The Pit against the Miners, improving their season record to 7-11; they will host the San Jose State Spartans on Friday, Oct.

23.