Good morning, Albuquerque.

A new study maps news deserts in New Mexico and shows that many rural areas and communities with Native American or Spanish-speaking residents have few local news sources.

Researchers surveyed over 1,100 residents and 139 news outlets and offered recommendations like more funding and improved broadband access—steps designed to strengthen local journalism.

ABQ RIDE’s 60th annual Luminaria Tour returns on Christmas Eve, offering families a 45-minute bus ride that winds from the Convention Center through Old Town and the Huning Castle area.

Tickets cost $1.50 and go on sale Black Friday at 8 a.m. online — with four tour times and just 1,000 seats available.

A New Mexico State astronomer and students have developed a method to predict solar flares that create the pink and green auroras seen across New Mexico this month — the new technique is expected to improve forecasts of space weather.

New Mexico’s Health Care Authority submitted its application for a $1 billion rural health fund to boost care in its rural areas, though state officials warn the money won’t fully make up for federal cutbacks.

Albuquerque International Sunport recently launched a free FlySide pass for visitors to explore airport shops with discounts—meanwhile, Santa Fe approved a minimum wage plan linked to rental costs that will help nearly 9,000 workers.

The UNM Lobos football team won against the San Diego State Aztecs in a double overtime game with a final score of 23 to 17 and improved their record to 9-3.

They now await the result of the Boise State and Utah State game which may give them a chance to host the Mountain West championship—an important step in their season.

Chokecherry

7:00-9:30 p.m. — Launchpad — All Ages — Experience live music from Chokecherry and The Sewing Club in a vibrant Albuquerque venue.

Monday Night NFL Watch Party

6-7:30 p.m. — Steel Bender Brewyard — Food and drink specials available — Catch Monday Night Football with giveaways and a chance to win a football getaway.

Stories & Music in the Sky

11 a.m. — Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum — Free entry — Experience a magical adventure of storytelling, music, and art for young children and their grown-ups.

AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Cancer Evolution

Event Duration — Thu, Dec 4 – Sat, Dec 6 — The Clyde Hotel — Registration required — Delve into how evolutionary principles shape cancer dynamics.

Holiday Stroll in Old Town with NM Museum of Natural History

5-9 p.m. — Old Town Plaza — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday season with local shopping and entertainment from performers.

Emo Night Karaoke

7-9:30 p.m. — 120 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM — 21+ Ages — Sing your heart out with a live band at this vibrant karaoke night.

Monday Night Watch Parties with 100.3 The Peak

6-7:30 p.m. — Steel Bender Brewyard — Great food and drink specials with live NFL action — Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere complete with giveaways and delicious food.

The Bouncing Souls Concert

6-9 p.m. — Sunshine Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience an evening with punk rock legends The Bouncing Souls in their energetic live performance.

Aaron Watson Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Sunshine Building — Tickets from $67 — Experience a night of country music with Aaron Watson in Albuquerque.

The Legacy Continues: 2 Seasons Beatings

7-9 p.m. — Kiva Auditorium — Ticket required — Experience an electrifying showdown as top athletes compete for glory in a thrilling celebration of sport's legacy.