Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 11th of December.
Good morning, Albuquerque.
🎭 Culture
On Friday, Dec. 19, Popejoy Hall hosts Mariachi Christmas — a festive show with mariachi and ballet folklórico that celebrates 25 years of New Mexico holiday traditions.
The event features regional Mexican folklore with performances by Mariachi Juvenil Aztlán and the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley Ballet Folklórico.
🎓 Education
New Mexico’s universal child care program now covers grandparents caring for grandchildren, removing work and school requirements to offer free care.
The policy launched last month and state officials will work with providers (including new low-interest loans) to boost available slots.
The Rio Rancho Public Schools board announced three candidates for superintendent last Tuesday night, with interviews scheduled for Dec.
15-17. Todd Resch, the district’s athletics director, is joined by Dr. Robert Dodd from Maryland and Dr. Heather Sanchez from Washington.
Ian Widrick-Martinez earned his Master of Public Administration from UNM this fall after beginning his journey at Santa Fe Community College and gaining hands-on experience at the UNM Foundation (inspired by his father’s advice).
He now plans to run a nonprofit to advance higher education.
UNM marked a key moment at the new Center for Collaborative Arts (CCAT) facility at the College of Fine Arts by installing a white, signed steel beam today; the milestone signals the end of the building’s structural phase and a move toward future creative spaces (approx.
60,000 sqft) along Central Avenue.
The New Mexico Higher Education Department asked lawmakers on Wednesday for $1.5 billion to fund public colleges, free high school equivalency tests, and loan repayment programs for teachers and healthcare workers, including a $30 million boost to base funding — a plan aimed at expanding instruction and research.
🌲 Environment
New Mexico is investing $930,000 to permanently protect 6,000 acres at Ghost Ranch, a landscape that inspired O’Keeffe, by preventing new development while allowing ranching and recreation.
The state and partners announced the deal Dec. 8 — phase one easements are expected to close by late 2026.
The Environment Department (NM) has begun evaluations at 15 abandoned uranium mine and mill sites and will complete cleanup at one site by next summer.
🏛️ Government
The Village of Los Lunas said an unexpected water emergency has disrupted water service in parts of Main Street – between Los Lentes Road and Carson Drive SE – and crews are working on a fix, with service expected to continue until further notice.
🏈 Sports
New Mexico United fans will back goalkeeper Alex Tambakis for Save of the Year after his March 29 double save against Miami FC & defender Zico Bailey for Goal of the Year after a 63-yard chip on Sept.
10 against Detroit City. Vote now for your favorite.
🎉 Albuquerque Events
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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.
Albuquerque December Brunch
11:30 a.m. — Central Grill and Coffee House — $10 reservation fee — Celebrate the season in your ugliest holiday sweater with delicious food and new connections.
2nd Annual Luminito Celebration
5:30-11:30 p.m. — National Hispanic Cultural Center — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday season with cultural performances, music, and local vendors in a festive outdoor setting.
Monday Night Watch Parties with 100.3 The Peak at Steel Bender Brewyard
6-7:30 p.m. — Steel Bender Brewyard — Food and drink specials available — Enjoy live NFL broadcasts with chances to win a football getaway.
Levi Dean Live at El Vado
6:00–8:30 p.m. — El Vado Motel — Cost varies — Experience the soulful sounds of Americana and blues with Levi Dean's live performance.
Saad K’idilyé Winter Solstice Gala
4:30-9:30 p.m. — Sheraton Albuquerque Uptown — Tickets available — Celebrate the achievements of a Navajo language immersion school with food, live music, and a silent auction.
Monday Night Watch Parties with 100.3 The Peak
6-7:30 p.m. — Steel Bender Brewyard — Food and drink specials available — Enjoy live NFL broadcasts with giveaways and delicious eats.
Candlelight Christmas Carols on Strings
6:30-7:30 p.m. — African American Performing Arts Center — Tickets required — Experience the enchanting sounds of Christmas carols performed by a string quartet in a beautiful candlelit setting.
River of Lights
5-10 p.m. — ABQ BioPark - Botanic Garden — Adults $21, Youth $12 — Experience New Mexico's largest walk-through holiday light show with dazzling displays and festive activities.
Monday Night Watch Parties at Steel Bender Brewyard
6-7:30 p.m. — Steel Bender Brewyard — Food and drink specials available — Enjoy live NFL action with giveaways and great food.
🏠 Albuquerque Real Estate
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📣 Albuquerque Announcements
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