Good morning, Albuquerque.

Bernalillo County opened Ponderosa Place in October in the renovated former Comfort Inn in NW Albuquerque.

The transitional facility now houses up to 300 residents and helps homeless families secure shelter, job training, and life skills (including game nights).

At UNM Hospital on Wednesday morning, Santa Claus arrived by helicopter and delivered presents to young patients in a festive pediatric playroom (a tradition that brightens their holiday season).

The Arroyo Del Oso Balloon Glow will take place on Wednesday, Dec.

24 at 5:00 p.m. at the southern edge of Arroyo Del Oso Golf Course (7001 Osuna Rd NE), featuring 36 hot air balloons and a Santa appearance to brighten Christmas Eve.

At a board meeting, Rio Rancho Public Schools named Robert 'Robby' Dodd as the new superintendent — the district's second leader in 31 years — and he will start on March 1 to continue the strong work of serving families and students.

Jim Todd (JT) is preparing to retire after a 35-year career as director of UNM Recreational Services, where he grew the facility from a small gym to 367,000 sqft.

He credits mentors and student advocacy for his lasting impact and plans to visit his college-age kids in England.

Over 55,000 New Mexicans on SNAP must work, volunteer or attend training for 80 hours a month to keep benefits starting Jan.

1, 2026. Health Care Authority staff offer help for residents to understand federal changes and check exemptions (for seniors, disabled and Native Americans).

Albuquerque will get a new 10-acre park at the State Fairgrounds as state finance officials approved $67 million in bonds on Tuesday + $22.35 million cleared on Dec.

9 will fund plaza, trails and play areas near Central Avenue and San Pedro Drive; final plans are expected in March.

New Mexico officials announced on Thursday that $25.9 million in grants will fund seven projects to treat brackish water into usable supplies.

The program includes an $11.7 million award to the Village of Cuba for a zero waste desalination facility + research, with further contracts expected.

Holiday gatherings can raise COVID-19 and flu risks, said Dr. Barry Ramo, a longtime KOAT expert — he advises keeping windows open and wearing masks for those at high risk.

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.

Midland Concert

6:00 – 9:30 p.m. — Route 66 Casino Hotel — Check venue for ticket prices — Experience the energetic sounds of Midland this New Year's Eve.

Albuquerque Career Fair

9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Albuquerque Marriott Pyramid North — Free entry — Meet live with hiring employers and explore career opportunities.

Gene Simmons Concert

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Backstage at Revel — Ticketed event — Experience an unforgettable live performance by the legendary Gene Simmons.