🌱 Politician Arrested For Murder + ABQ Named Among Top Food Cities

Hello again, friends. It's Wednesday in Albuquerque and I'm back in your inbox with everything that's fit to print about what's happening in town.

But first, today's weather:

Some sun, then clouds; chilly. High: 41 Low: 22.

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Here are the top three stories today in Albuquerque:

1. The Republican New Mexico representative hopeful was arrested Monday for alleged involvement in attempted murders. Solomon Peña unsuccessfully ran for a state House seat last November. Police in Albuquerque arrested him for allegedly paying four men to shoot at the homes of four elected officials. According to police, Peña paid the men $500 and even took part in one of the shootings himself. (NPR)
2. The lead suspect in a December road rage murder was apprehended. Yesterday, the U.S. Marshals Service arrested Tristan Salais and charged him with an open count of murder and tampering with evidence for the December murder of Jessie Lovato. The crime occurred during an apparent road rage incident near the Montaño Bridge. (City of Albuquerque)
3. Eater Magazine named Albuquerque one of the Top Food Cities to Travel to in 2023. Albuquerque is one of only two U.S. cities included on the list. The list also recognized 25 Albuquerque restaurants, mentioning local favorites such as Sawmill Market, Campo at Los Poblanos, and M’tucci’s Bar Roma. (KQRE)

Today in Albuquerque:

• Family Storytime At South Broadway Public Library (10:30 AM)
• On-site Hiring Event At 5150 Journal Center Blvd NE (2:00 PM)
• Pizza With Police At Dion's (2:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Albuquerque Isotopes is offering 20 percent off all hats online now through Friday. In celebration of National Hat Day, the store's promotion endures through the week. Shop online at abqisotopes.com; the discount is automatically applied at checkout. (Albuquerque Isotopes via Instagram)
• Have you seen the Albuquerque Museum's eMuseum? On Monday, the museum was closed but it spotlighted a photo of MLK Jr. from its collection; a piece from photographer Dan Budnik. To access the eMuseum when the physical location is closed, navigate to the website and choose "Search Our Collection." (Albuquerque Museum via Instagram)
• The award-winning journalist Martin Salazar has joined Albuquerque Public Schools. Salazar was named the new Communications Director and brings a wealth of experience in the field — and a passion for education. (Albuquerque Public Schools via Instagram)

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Wednesday. I'll see you around!

— Michelle Paul