🌱 Mother's Day Music At The Zoo + Return Of Handle With Care Program

Hello all. I'm back in your inbox this morning with all the most important things happening these days in town.

But first, your local weather:

• Wednesday: A stray afternoon t-shower. High: 81 Low: 55.
• Thursday: A shower; breezy in the p.m.. High: 77 Low: 48.

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Here are the top three stories in Albuquerque today:

1. If you're looking for a creative way to spend Mother's Day, consider making a trip to the ABQ BioPark Zoo for some live music. ABQ BioPark will host a celebration this Sunday with live music beginning at 9:00 a.m. and running all throughout the park, with the final performance at 3:00 p.m. In addition to music, there will be free face painting for kids, snacks and drinks at the Cottonwood Cafe, and special brunch baskets (only available for pre-purchase). Buy your tickets here, and if you are interested in a brunch basket, click on this link. (KRQE News 13)
2. A teen accused of killing Jada Gonzales at a house party in December has requested his release from jail prior to his trial. On Dec. 17, 2022, Jesse Parra, Isaiah Espinosa, and Cruz Medina were kicked out of a Westside house party for flashing firearms. Before they left the house, they fired shots that ultimately took Gonzales's life. Parra's attorney showed a video on Monday trying to prove that Parra was not the one who fired the shot that hit Gonzales; however, prosecutors argued that he is a danger to the community and should be kept. Judge Courtney Weaks ultimately denied the request for release and a trial date will be set at a later time. (KRQE News 13)
3. Albuquerque city councilors are aiming to bring back a new edition of the "Handle With Care" program that partnered first responders with school officials to help students going through trauma gain the resources and attention they need. A CDC study in 2022 showed that New Mexico had the highest rate of children suffering from adverse childhood experiences, with 67 percent of New Mexico citizens having suffered from trauma at some point in their life, including children. City Councilor Renee Grout is co-sponsoring the resolution of bringing back "Handle With Care," as she is a strong advocate for the program and all the positivity it brings. The program was last in place in 2017 but was derailed by the pandemic. (KOB 4)

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Today and tomorrow in Albuquerque:

Wednesday, May 3

• Free First Wednesday At Albuquerque Museum (9:00 AM)
• West Side Tea For Tatas At Taylor Ranch Public Library (12:00 PM)

Thursday, May 4

• Treating PTSD + Complex Trauma With Dr. Leah Giarratano At Virtual (8:00 AM)
• Music Education Showcase At Keller Hall (2:00 PM)
• Comedy Open Mic At Dry Heat Comedy Club (7:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Albuquerque Police Department is asking for the public's assistance in locating a vehicle that is suspected to have been used in a homicide in February. A Nissan Versa was seen fleeing the area where Diego Garcia Urban was shot and killed in a parking lot. If you have any information, please contact the police or CrimeStoppers. (Albuquerque Police Department via Facebook)
• This Friday, the Isotopes will be giving out Adult Mariachis Jerseys to the first 3,000 fans (16 and older) to walk through the gates. The jerseys are courtesy of Rio Grande Credit Union. (Albuquerque Isotopes via Instagram)
• If you are looking for a rewarding career in Santa Fe County where you can make a direct impact in your community, look no further than the Regional Emergency Communication Center. The team is searching for dispatchers who can keep a calm head in high-stress situations and show a true passion for their job.! (Santa Fe County via Facebook)

That's it for today! I'll see you back in your inbox soon with your next update.

— Michelle Paul

About me: Michelle Paul is a Utah-based writer and photographer with a professional background in content management and registered nursing. When not working on projects ranging from photo editing to copywriting, they enjoy traveling, video games, and expanding their skills.