New Mexico Sun


City advises residents on preventing mosquito infestations after historic rainfall

The City of Albuquerque Environmental Health Department and the Bernalillo County Health Protection Section are anticipating a significant increase in mosquito activity that will likely persist through the summer following recent heavy rainfall. Mosquitoes breed in standing water and can develop from egg to adult in as little as seven days. The joint City-County mosquito control program has issued recommendations for residents to help reduce breeding and prevent bites amid high mosquito populations.


City announces events and closures for Independence Day celebrations

Community members are encouraged to sign up for ABQ Alert to receive real-time event updates and emergency notifications. For a complete list of holiday hours and services, visit the City's Holiday Information page.


Santa Fe County extends application deadline for Behavioral Health Leadership Council

Santa Fe County has extended the application deadline for service on its Behavioral Health Leadership Council to July 9. The Council will function as an advisory body, providing recommendations to the Community Services Department and the broader community to develop a comprehensive system of behavioral health services tailored to the needs of Santa Fe County residents.


ABQ RIDE introduces five new electric vans in fleet electrification effort

ALBUQUERQUE – ABQ RIDE announced the addition of five new electric vans to its fleet as part of the ABQ RIDE Connect pilot program. City officials, transit staff, and community members gathered at the Ken Sanchez Transit Facility to celebrate this advancement in fleet electrification and zero emissions.


Albuquerque animal shelters announce Independence Day closures

The City of Albuquerque Animal Welfare Department (AWD) Eastside and Westside shelters will be closed on Thursday, July 4, except for admissions and reclaims, which will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Most reclaims can be processed on this day, many free of charge. Credit cards will not be accepted for reclaims on this day. Appointments are not required to reclaim pets. The shelters will resume normal operations on Friday, July 5.


UNM innovations aim at global impact across diverse fields

Every day, faculty at The University of New Mexico (UNM) work to uncover the next technological frontier and expand our knowledge about the world. The research conducted at UNM has led to the creation of new inventions that have been licensed by companies for use globally.


Santa Fe County announces utility water service rate increase effective July

Effective July 1, 2024, the Santa Fe County Public Works Department will implement a 3.3% increase in utility water and wastewater service rates through Fiscal Year 2026. This adjustment, in line with Ordinance No. 2018-3 & 2018-4 approved by the Board of County Commissioners (Board) on June 12, 2018, will be posted on the Santa Fe County website.


UNM launches interactive campus map to enhance navigation

Navigating The University of New Mexico's (UNM) campus has become more accessible with the launch of an online, interactive campus map. This tool aims to modernize and streamline campus experiences for students, staff, faculty, and visitors. The map covers UNM’s Albuquerque Campuses and is accessible online through mobile and desktop computers.


Santa Fe County announces Fourth of July closures

Santa Fe County administrative offices and facilities will be closed on Thursday, July 4, 2024, in observance of Independence Day. The closure will affect all Senior Centers, with extra home-delivered meals provided to eligible seniors before the holiday. Additionally, all Solid Waste Convenience Centers will be closed. Essential services provided by Public Safety will continue without interruption. Regular business hours for administrative offices will resume on Friday, July 5, 2024.


UNM Sandoval Regional Medical Center competes for most beautiful hospital in U.S

Voting is now open for the "Top 20 Most Beautiful Hospitals" in the U.S., and The University of New Mexico Sandoval Regional Medical Center (SRMC) is seeking community support to achieve the top spot. The contest, sponsored by Soliant, a national healthcare staffing firm, recognizes hospitals for their campus development, facilities improvement, staff enhancement, and creation of holistic healing environments.


Albuquerque responds swiftly to heavy rains causing widespread flooding

The City of Albuquerque took swift action, recruiting extra support from several departments, to respond to heavy rain and flooding throughout the city and ensure the well-being of residents in hard-hit neighborhoods. Last night, Albuquerque experienced 1.48 inches of water in less than 90 minutes. Average rainfall for this time of year is typically just 0.03 inches.


Albuquerque opens new headquarters for innovative Community Safety Department

ALBUQUERQUE – Mayor Tim Keller, along with approximately 400 community members, celebrated a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new headquarters of the Albuquerque Community Safety Department (ACS) at 1210 San Mateo Blvd. SE.


Three UNM advisors selected for presentations at national advising conference

Three University of New Mexico employees will attend and present at a national conference this fall. Shannon Saavedra, Catherine Young, and JJ Conn, all UNM Academic Advisors, were selected separately to present during the National Academic Advising Association's 2024 Annual Conference in Pittsburgh, Pa., this October.


NMSU's diverse musical ensembles foster interdisciplinary connections among students

Kyle Girven double majored in aerospace engineering and mathematics with minors in astronomy and physics, while Jess Novak majored in environmental science with minors in nuclear engineering, environmental engineering, and geology. The New Mexico State University May 2024 graduates came together through music.


UNM faculty member leads efforts in improving youth sexual health education

Elizabeth Dickson, PhD, RN, an assistant professor at The University of New Mexico College of Population Health and the UNM College of Nursing, has become a key figure in addressing gaps in sexual health education for young people. Her journey began with questions about how students were learning about sexual health.


NMSU student secures internship with NBC Sports during Paris 2024 Olympics

Noah Apodaca will begin his senior year at New Mexico State University this fall after securing an internship with NBC Sports during the Paris 2024 Olympics in July and August.


Albuquerque sends emergency management specialist to aid Ruidoso fire response

As emergency response efforts continue for the South Fork and Salt fires, the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) has called for additional support. Emergency Management Specialists are needed to relieve and supplement their counterparts in Ruidoso.


Albuquerque officials assess impact of Supreme Court's Grants Pass v. Johnson ruling

City leaders will evaluate how the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Grants Pass v. Johnson will affect Albuquerque in the coming weeks. The City has expressed appreciation for the increased flexibility to enforce ordinances and emphasized its commitment to protecting the rights of unhoused individuals.


Civilian Police Oversight Advisory Board announces possible quorum for member training

A quorum of the Civilian Police Oversight Advisory Board may be present at the City of Albuquerque Government Center (City Hall), located at 1 Civic Plaza NW, Albuquerque, NM, 87102, for CPOA Board member training on July 2, 2024. No board business will be discussed during this session.


ABQ BioPark celebrates hatching of critically endangered Bali myna chicks

The ABQ BioPark has announced the successful hatching of two critically endangered Bali myna chicks. The news follows the introduction of two Bali mynas, a male named Pozole and a female named Masa, earlier this year with the aim of forming a mating pair.