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‘The Final Breakfast’: APS Food and Nutrition Services Hosts Farewell Meals for Graduating Seniors

Gregg Morgan
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‘The Final Breakfast’: APS Food and Nutrition Services Hosts Farewell Meals for Graduating Seniors

For school food service workers, graduation means saying goodbye to familiar faces they have served for years. What better way to show their appreciation and pride than by serving a delicious breakfast? This is what the Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) Food and Nutrition Services (FANS) staff did before this spring’s graduation ceremonies. 

FANS introduced a new tradition with the Class of 2026. They celebrated a total of 4,214 graduating students from 20 schools by treating them to special graduation breakfast celebrations. 

The breakfasts brought students, classmates, and school staff together to celebrate their accomplishments before graduation, according to APS. 

Participating schools included:

  • Albuquerque High, 
  • Atrisco Heritage Academy, 
  • Cibola High, 
  • College and Career High, 
  • Del Norte High, 
  • Eldorado High, 
  • Freedom High, 
  • Highland High, 
  • La Cueva High, 
  • Manzano High, 
  • New Futures High, 
  • Nex+Gen Academy, 
  • Rio Grande High, 
  • Sandia High, 
  • School on Wheels, 
  • Stephen Moody Complex, 
  • Transition Services, 
  • Valley High, 
  • Volcano Vista High,
  • and West Mesa High.

FANS staff went all out for the event. They decorated the cafeterias with balloons, streamers, signs, and a large variety of 2026 graduation decorations.

A Show of Love for Seniors 

The FANS team viewed the events as especially meaningful.

“This final breakfast service gave my team one last opportunity to love on their babies and share how proud they are of this major achievement in their young lives,” FANS Executive Director Marie Johnson said.

Johnson said the celebrations reflected the relationships cafeteria teams build with students throughout their educational journey. Many graduates have come to know the staff who served them breakfast and lunch each day.

The graduation breakfasts recognized students’ hard work and perseverance. They also honored the community of educators, support staff, and families who helped them succeed.

Tree Deaths Are Accelerating Faster Than Scientists Expected—and Bark Beetles Are Winning

Juan Oliveros
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Tree Deaths Are Accelerating Faster Than Scientists Expected—and Bark Beetles Are Winning

Heat, drought, and bark beetles are accelerating tree deaths across New Mexico, according to a new state report.

The New Mexico Forestry Division’s 2025 Forest Health Conditions Report revealed that about 382,000 acres of forests and woodlands across the state. It showed telltale signs of damage from insects, disease, and drought.

Scientists say some of the greatest threats intensified dramatically, although the overall affected area has declined slightly from the previous year. Foremost among them was a surge in bark beetle activity. Tree mortality due to bark beetles expanded from about 67,000 acres in 2024 to 209,000 acres in 2025. Ponderosa pine mortality increased nearly five times to 155,000 acres, while piñon pine mortality increased from less than 1,000 acres to more than 33,000 acres.

The increase is tied to hotter and drier conditions, which weaken trees, reducing their capacity to defend themselves against insect attacks. Healthy trees produce resin that can help repel beetles. But persistent drought leaves many forests vulnerable.

“Being an insect that is temperature driven with respect to its biology, the longer the temperatures stay warmer into the season, especially into fall, we definitely see some late activity with respect to bark beetle attack on piñon pine,” said Victor Lucero, Forest Health Program Coordinator of the New Mexico State Forestry Division.

By the end of 2025, moderate drought spread across nearly three‑quarters of New Mexico, while severe drought affected more than half the state. The average temperature reached 56.2 degrees, making the year the second warmest on record. Rainfall totaled just 12.52 inches, ranking 2025 one of the state’s driest years.

Although some insect outbreaks subsided, others have increased. The loss of foliage caused by insects and disease fell by more than half across the state, mainly because western spruce budworm activity receded. But Douglas-fir tussock moth infestations expanded from 18,000 acres to 42,000 acres, and piñon needle scale damage grew to 39,000 acres.

Scientists also recorded a 66 percent increase in drought-related stress statewide. Areas recovering from recent wildfires remain particularly vulnerable, as fragile ecosystems confront shifting climate patterns and recurring insect attacks.

The report portrays that New Mexico’s woodlands are entering a period marked by rising temperatures and prolonged aridity, creating increasingly favorable conditions for pests and disease. Southern portions of the state, especially ponderosa and piñon forests, have experienced some of the highest rates of tree mortality. Forest managers continue restoration initiatives and fuel-reduction projects to reduce wildfire risk and improve ecosystem resilience. But the report highlights the level of the challenge facing one of the Southwest’s defining environments.

The findings signal a sobering reality. Even as some outbreaks decreased, climate-driven stressors are creating conditions for new threats to emerge, leaving the state’s forests increasingly fragile.

What’s In With ‘Operation Cool Down’ as Albuquerque Experience Triple-Digit Heat

Ruben Reyes
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What’s In With ‘Operation Cool Down’ as Albuquerque Experience Triple-Digit Heat

Triple-digit temperatures have arrived in Albuquerque, prompting the city government to launch Operation Cool Down 2026. The initiative provides residents with access to 22 community centers, pools, splash pads, and shelters.

Residents can use air-conditioned public buildings, including libraries, senior centers and community centers, as temperatures are expected to climb this week amid concerns about a potential Super El Niño.

Mayor Tim Keller said extreme heat poses a serious public safety threat. “Extreme heat is a serious public safety issue, and we are treating it that way,” Keller said. “Our job is to make sure people know where to go, how to get help, and that no one is left outside without options.”

Where to go

Residents can seek relief at the city’s 22 community centers, which offer game rooms, gyms, workout areas, and quiet rooms. Keller said residents can enroll online for a free Play Pass to access the facilities.

Public pools and splash pads are open throughout the summer. Admission ranges from $1 for toddlers to $3 for adults at locations across the city.

Utilizing Park Sprinklers

As part of Operation Cooldown 2026, the Parks & Recreation Department (PRD) is reactivating sprinklers at select neighborhood parks. Beginning Wednesday, June 17, sprinklers will operate at selected parks from 1 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. on days when temperatures are forecast to reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, except Sundays.


The first group of participating parks includes Academy Hills Park (9709 Layton Ave. NE), Seville Park (6200 Burgos Ave. NW), Jack and Jill Park (433 Arizona St. SE), Sierra Sunset Park (10600 Big Springs Rd. SW), and Villella Park (6910 Cherokee Rd. NE)

Shelter For Those On The Street

City officials said the Gateway System provides round-the-clock shelter and support services for people experiencing homelessness, including indoor space, meals, connections to treatment, and housing navigation.

Matthews-Trigg, program manager for mobile homelessness response at the New Mexico Department of Health, said not everyone has access to resources that help them stay cool. “While some of us have the resources to get cool, to stay cool, not everybody has that,” Matthews-Trigg said.

He and Kelly Watson, a harm reduction communications specialist, helped launch the department’s heat safety initiative to raise awareness about the dangers extreme temperatures pose to people experiencing homelessness. “It’s all about reducing harm wherever we can, helping people where they are and meeting them where they are,” Watson said.

One concern, Watson said, is distinguishing between heat stroke and an overdose because symptoms such as slurred speech, seizures, and loss of consciousness can overlap. “You can also assess for other things that occur with an overdose, like their color kind of going with heat stroke; they might be more like red and hot to the touch, versus an overdose, where they’re going to be turning more blue, gray,” she said.

Watson said naloxone, commonly known by the brand name Narcan, can be administered if the cause is unclear because it will not harm someone who is not experiencing an overdose.

The state’s health department is also distributing heat kits containing cooling towels, sunscreen, insect repellent, and other supplies through community partners and mobile outreach teams.

Others Are Helping Out

Pastor Joanne Landry of Interfaith Bible Center said she has witnessed how substance use can contribute to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. “I don’t think they know really when to hydrate, and I think that’s what happens too, is with the addiction and everything going on, and they just go, go, go,” Landry said.

Landry said the church provides water, sunscreen, and cooling towels to dozens, and sometimes hundreds, of people experiencing homelessness and continues to accept donations.

She said pets are also vulnerable to extreme heat. “They just walk on the hot, hot sidewalks and pavement. So we’re thinking of getting baby booties,” Landry said.

Tips and Recommendations For Residents

Health officials urged residents to watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including heavy sweating, muscle cramps, clammy skin, and a rapid, weak pulse. Symptoms of heat stroke include a body temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, nausea, dizziness, and a rapid, strong pulse.

Officials also advised residents to drink plenty of water and limit outdoor activities, particularly during the hottest part of the afternoon.

110° in Roswell: New Mexico’s Southeast Swelters Under Scorching Heat, With No Quick Relief in Sight

Juan Oliveros
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110° in Roswell: New Mexico’s Southeast Swelters Under Scorching Heat, With No Quick Relief in Sight

Much of New Mexico experienced scorching heat on Wednesday as forecasters warned that the harshest impacts hit the state’s southeastern corner. Temperatures in the lower Pecos River Valley climbed toward 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

The National Weather Service issued heat advisories and precautions as highs reached the low- to mid-100s along the Rio Grande Valley from Albuquerque southward through Socorro, Truth or Consequences, and Las Cruces. But the harshest conditions gripped east-central and southeastern New Mexico, where prevalent triple-digit readings tested both residents and infrastructure.

According to the National Weather Service, temperatures approached 110 degrees in the lower Pecos River Valley, including areas around Roswell, among the hottest forecasts for the region this early in the season.

Meteorologists said the trend marked the peak of an intensifying heat wave, driven by hot, dry air and limited overnight cooling. Dangerous highs hit the Rio Grande corridor. But the southeast endured the punishing heat, raising alarms about health, electricity, and fire risk.

Health officials urged caution as the body’s cooling capacity declines in such conditions. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued guidance urging hydration, limiting outdoor activity during peak temperatures, checking on vulnerable individuals and family members, and warning against leaving children or pets in vehicles, where interior temperatures can become dangerous within minutes.

The extreme heat in the southeast comes as New Mexico grapples with mounting climate pressures, especially the rise in extreme summer heat episodes. Forecasters expect relief later in the week with an increasing possibility of monsoon thunderstorms. They cautioned, however, that those storms could also bring localized flooding and lightning threats.

The National Weather Service warns: Take the heat seriously, particularly in the southeastern corner of the state, where conditions are at their harshest.

New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame to Induct Five New Members

Victoria Padilla
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New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame to Induct Five New Members

New Mexico will honor some of its most accomplished athletes, coaches, and sports figures later this month as the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame inducts its newest class.

The Hall of Fame announced that five individuals representing four sports will join its distinguished ranks. The 2025 class includes Olympic silver medalist Courtney Frerichs, basketball standout Anita Maxwell, legendary football coach Miles Watters, golf coach John Fields, and former quarterback Landry Jones.

According to Hall of Fame officials, each inductee has made significant contributions to New Mexico’s athletic legacy through achievements at the high school, collegiate, national, and international levels. Their accomplishments span multiple decades. Moreover, they have helped bring recognition to the state’s sports community.

Frerichs received national attention for her incredible achievements as a distance runner at the University of New Mexico. She led the Lobos to the 2015 NCAA Team Championships. Also, she won a silver medal in the 3000-meter steeplechase at this year’s Tokyo Olympics. This made her the first American woman to run a sub-9 minute 3000m steeplechase.

One of the most successful athletes in the history of New Mexico State’s women’s basketball program, Maxwell was the first female NCAA player to amass 2,500 career points, 1,000 career rebounds, and 300 career steals. Additionally, she is the only Aggie women’s basketball player to have her jersey number retired.

Watters has a long history of coaching success in New Mexico and holds the record for the most wins by a coach in the state. He coached 11 state championship football teams at Clayton High School. In addition, he accumulated 526 career victories over more than 30 years in coaching. Fields also had an impressive career. He coached UNM’s golf program to 9 NCAA Championships and received many national awards for his accomplishments as a coach.

The induction ceremony begins at 5 p.m. on June 27 at the Clyde Hotel in downtown Albuquerque. Hall of Fame officials said the event will celebrate athletes and coaches whose achievements have left an enduring impact on sports in New Mexico and serve as a reminder of the state’s rich athletic history.

In-N-Out Burger Eyes Third Restaurant in Albuquerque

Victoria Padilla
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In-N-Out Burger Eyes Third Restaurant in Albuquerque

In-N-Out Burger is expanding its presence in Albuquerque with plans for a third location, signaling continued growth for the California-based chain as it prepares to enter the New Mexico market.

City documents reviewed by local media show developers are planning a new restaurant on Albuquerque’s West Side. This new addition comes alongside two previously announced locations.

In-N-Out previously announced sites at the University of New Mexico’s South Campus in the Lobo Crossing retail development and in the Cottonwood Mall area. These will be two of the expected first In-N-Out locations in New Mexico.

Project documents show that the new location will add to the company’s existing portfolio in the metro area. Construction timelines and opening dates have not yet been announced. Both company representatives and development teams are progressing with site plan development. They are also working on permit applications.

The expansion is part of In-N-Out’s broader growth strategy. The company, known for its limited menu and emphasis on quality control, has steadily expanded across the western United States while relying on a regional distribution network to maintain fresh ingredients. Additionally, it is following its desire to produce food of the highest quality.

The proposed South Campus location has generated strong community interest. University and development officials have said In-N-Out has drawn more public attention than any other business proposed for the retail development.

The announcement of a third Albuquerque location highlights the company’s confidence in the city’s growing market and consumer demand. Residents are awaiting additional details on construction schedules and opening dates as anticipation builds for the arrival of the iconic burger chain in New Mexico.

NMSU Students Gain Global Perspective on Agriculture during UK Trip

Gregg Morgan
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NMSU Students Gain Global Perspective on Agriculture during UK Trip

A transformative experience unfolded for student leaders at New Mexico State University during a recent United Kingdom trip. Beyond seeing familiar images from books and social media, students used their time there to explore the world-renowned destination. The experience shows how NMSU continues opening its doors for bigger adventures. 

Students shared a glimpse of their nine-day trip in May. For Savannah Tuss and Jayda Goodson, the journey was more than a sightseeing opportunity,  as it offered new insights into UK agriculture. 

“This trip was much more than a sightseeing opportunity,” said Tuss.

Tuss, a sophomore and state 4-H military ambassador, said they learned about agriculture from a global perspective. She said they also developed leadership skills while representing New Mexico 4-H. 

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity and would encourage other young people to take advantage of experiences like this whenever they can,” she said. 

Goodson, a sophomore and FFA 2025-2026 state president, said she enjoyed seeing the differences between agricultural production in England and the US. 

“Farms there are generally a lot smaller than many of our large-scale operations here, but the neat thing was that no matter the size of the farm, we all have the same goal: to provide food for our nation at a safe and economically sustainable capacity,” she said.

The NMSU delegation included 17 students from the 4-H and FFA Leadership Teams. Many of them traveled internationally for the first time, along with support staff.

The group visited farms, agricultural businesses, higher education institutions including Harper Adams University, and industry leaders across England and Wales.  

What Made the Trip Special for the Delegation 

“The trip was an incredible educational and cultural experience for the New Mexico 4-H Leadership team,” said Teresa Dean. 

“It provided youth with the opportunity to expand their understanding of international agriculture, leadership and global food systems while representing New Mexico abroad,” she said. 

Dean serves as Cooperative Extension Service Doña Ana County program director and state 4-H Leadership Team adviser.

The trip was funded through a private donation. It received support from the British Embassy in Washington, D.C., and New Mexico Department of Agriculture Sec. Jeff Witte.

“The ability to sit around a table and talk about our passions, no matter the background, is truly inspiring, especially for people in our generation,” Goodson said.

The group was introduced to the rich history, unique culture and deep-rooted traditions of the UK. They explored historic landmarks including Stonehenge, Salisbury Cathedral, Bletchley Park, the Tower of London, and the Palace of Westminster.

“From standing in places filled with centuries of history to visiting world-renowned landmarks, the trip helped students gain a broader understanding of the world while also building confidence, curiosity and appreciation for different cultures,” Dean said. 

“It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combined agriculture, leadership, history and personal growth all into one journey,” she added. 

Why APS Food and Nutrition Services Is Upskilling Ahead of the New School Year

Gregg Morgan
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Why APS Food and Nutrition Services Is Upskilling Ahead of the New School Year

Albuquerque Public Schools continues to equip its staff with skills needed to better serve students. The district’s Food and Nutrition Services team recently participated in a state conference to exchange ideas and gain valuable training. The experience is especially important as they continue to champion healthy meals for students. 

After more than six years, APS made a major return to the annual New Mexico School Nutrition Association conference. The district sent 65 team members to take part in professional development, networking, and leadership opportunities.

The conference gathers school nutrition professionals to share ideas, learn best practices, and explore new approaches to serving students. It carries the theme “Facing the Future Together: Uniting Innovation, Scratch-Cooked, Fresh Meals and Community in School Nutrition.”

APS Executive Director of Food and Nutrition Services Marie Johnson said the conference provided essential training and resources from state agencies and industry partners. She added the event also gave team members opportunities to collaborate with colleagues from various districts.

Johnson said the conference also affirmed the district’s vision for the future of school meals.

Commitment to Healthy Meals and Staff Development

“Attending this conference reminded us of the important work we do every day for students,” Johnson said. “Our team is excited about the 2026-2027 school year and the opportunity to continue expanding scratch-made, minimally processed and culturally relevant menu options. We’re focused on serving meals that nourish students, celebrate our community and help every child thrive.”

In an earlier report, APS announced plans to make a major shift in school meal preparation. Starting August 7, district staff will prepare more than half of the menu items from scratch. To support the transition, the Food and Nutrition Services team will have to undergo a series of trainings to ensure proper plan implementation.

Johnson said there will be lots of training over the summer so the team is fully equipped by August. “All of our menus will be 51% scratch or more.” 

Johnson is a two-term past NMSNA president. She has long been involved in advancing school nutrition across New Mexico. During her tenure, she championed the state’s Healthy Universal School Meals law, which expanded access to nutritious meals for students.

Meanwhile, the event also included exciting news for APS. Area Manager Geri Garcia was elected NMSNA secretary and will serve for the next two school years.

The district’s participation in the conference reflects its commitment to investing in staff development. It also shows APS’ dedication to improve school meal programs for students and families.

Goodbye, Texas U-Turn? NMDOT Wants to Rename the ‘Texas U-Turn’ as It Debuts on I-25

Juan Oliveros
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Goodbye, Texas U-Turn? NMDOT Wants to Rename the ‘Texas U-Turn’ as It Debuts on I-25

The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) is encouraging residents to help rename a highway feature known across the Southwest as the “Texas U-turn,” a move that combines public engagement with a hint of interstate rivalry.

NMDOT is introducing a new Advanced U-turn (AUT) as part of the state’s ongoing Interstate 25 improvement project between Comanche Road and Montgomery Boulevard in Albuquerque. The project, according to officials, is already progressing ahead of schedule.

The design itself is simple yet efficient. Rather than forcing motorists exiting the freeway to pass through two traffic lights to make a U-turn, drivers remain in the far-left lane of the frontage road and execute a designated U-turn at or near the overpass, allowing them to travel the opposite route with fewer stops.

The design has long been associated with Texas. It is where sprawling frontage-road systems made the “Texas Turnaround” a popular feature of urban driving. Transportation planners have praised the design for reducing delays, streamlining flow, and easing congestion at key junctions.

But New Mexico officials are adamant about embracing the Lone Star branding. “Texas has famously named the AUTs ‘Texas Turnarounds,’ but we obviously aren’t Texas, and we honestly think we can do better,” the NMDOT said in a news release. “Plus, if our snowplow names have taught us anything, it is that there is a lot of creativity in the Land of Enchantment.”

The search for a new name comes amid a backdrop of rivalry between the neighboring states. To say that relations between New Mexico and Texas are tense is an understatement. Texas is considering annexation of several New Mexico counties.

Transportation officials appear keen to implement the new road feature. They want the new name to depict a distinct New Mexican identity.

NMDOT has opened a public contest seeking creative submissions inspired by New Mexico culture or reflective of the U-turn concept itself. Residents have until noon on June 26 to submit their entries to the naming contest through the department’s online portal. They may also scan a QR code included in promotional materials.

The rules are simple:

  • Each participant may submit only one name;
  • NMDOT will reject entries containing vulgar, profane, or otherwise inappropriate language; and
  • NMDOT will not consider politically inspired submissions, including references to politicians, campaign slogans or public figures.

The initiative underscores a bigger effort by NMDOT to involve the public in projects that often take place away from public view. Officials are turning an otherwise routine engineering upgrade into an opportunity to search for local identity.

The design may trace its roots to Texas. But New Mexico is determined to make it its own. Motorists in Albuquerque will soon be turning in an unmistakably New Mexican way.

Fire In Bear Grows To Almost 7,800 Acres, Containment Still On Going

Ruben Reyes
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Fire In Bear Grows To Almost 7,800 Acres, Containment Still On Going

The containment on Bear Fire currently burning in Gila National Forest is having its progress after a lightning caused it earlier this month.

The fire has burned down 7,769 acres and 35% has already been contained, around 18 miles southeast of Quemado.

Firefighters are holding and strengthening containment lines, avoiding the fire from spreading significantly. Aircrafts are still assigned to the fire for water drops, survey flights and to meet emergency medical needs.

“From the Slaughter Mesa helispot, the Wenatchee Helitack crew conducted a short haul proficiency flight, which ensures injured firefighters working in remote areas can be transported to medical care safely and rapidly. The crew members are all experienced wildland firefighters who serve multiple purposes and functions on the incident,” managers said.

The weather is expected to turn more warm and dry around the state. This prompts fire restrictions in Mount Taylor Ranger District of the Cibola National Forest anf National Grasslands.

Meanwhile, Stage two restrictions will begin there Thursday and until last August. This means no off-roading, no smoking outside and other provisions or else you could face a heavy penalty.

Follow the authorities rule and trust them about containing the fire. With the improvement of the containment, it is possible that it will be fire out sooner or later.

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