Category: News

News in Albuquerque

 

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Felix “Gato” Peralta: An Evening of Stories and Songs

Felix “Gato” Peralta has a way of captivating audiences with his soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. This June, Felix brings his rich storytelling and musical talents to the highly anticipated event series, Southwest Serenades. Held in an intimate “in the round” format, this event promises to be an unforgettable evening of music and personal tales.

Southwest Serenades is a unique gathering of the Southwest’s finest songwriters, where musicians share their stories of love, romance, and life’s many challenges through their songs. Hosted by the charismatic Edgar Wonder, the event offers an authentic and engaging musical experience that draws you into the artists’ world. With playful banter and point awards reminiscent of “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”, the evening is set to be both entertaining and deeply moving.

Felix Peralta, known for his evocative songs inspired by his travels and personal experiences, will be one of the featured performers. His latest song, influenced by a poignant memory of being stranded in Taos Pueblo, captures the essence of his adventurous spirit and emotional depth. “My songs always have an element of truth to them; they come from experiences and adventures of the past,” Felix says, reflecting on his journey.

The Southwest Serenades format allows Felix to not only perform his music but also to connect with the audience on a personal level. As he shares the stage with other talented musicians, Felix will take turns singing his songs and joining in on others’ performances, creating a spontaneous and intimate atmosphere. The collaborative spirit of the event ensures that each performance is unique and full of surprises.

Dustin Woody will be performing at Southwest Serenades July 5th

As Felix prepares for his performance, the excitement is palpable. “Southwest Serenades is a special event where we can really connect with the audience and share our stories in a way that’s genuine and heartfelt,” he says. This event offers fans a rare opportunity to experience Felix’s music in an intimate setting, where every note and every story resonates deeply.

For those who have followed Felix’s journey from his early days in South Valley to becoming one of New Mexico’s most beloved musicians, Southwest Serenades is a must-attend event. It’s a chance to witness Felix’s artistry up close, to hear the stories behind the songs, and to be part of an evening that celebrates the power of music and storytelling.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this captivating event. Join Felix “Gato” Peralta and other incredible musicians at Southwest Serenades for an evening of unforgettable music, personal stories, and genuine connection. Tickets are on sale now, and they’re going fast. Secure your spot for a night that promises to be both entertaining and deeply moving.

Southwest Serenades, is more than just a concert; it’s an experience that will stay with you long after the last note has faded. Be there to see Felix Peralta in his element, sharing his soul through his music, and become part of a community that values the beauty of authentic storytelling. Get your tickets today and prepare for a night of magic.

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JD Nash: Finding Strength in Music Amidst the Battle with Cancer

In a heartfelt display of resilience and passion, JD Nash, the beloved local troubador, continues to rehearse with his band even while undergoing chemotherapy. Recently featured on Edgar Wonder’s Instagram Story, JD is seen rocking his signature hat over the bald head characteristic of his treatment. The image of the band rehearsing, all wearing masks to protect JD’s compromised immune system, is a powerful testament to their solidarity and determination.

“I felt strong enough to rehearse while I’m in between these rounds of chemo,” JD shared, emphasizing the physical and emotional toll of his treatment. “Not everyone knows how hard it can be to go through chemo.” His commitment to his music and his bandmates is unwavering, even in the face of such daunting challenges.

Despite his strength, JD’s journey has not been without its harrowing moments. He recently experienced a Neutropenic episode, a severe complication that left him with dangerously low white blood cell counts, requiring an emergency visit to the hospital. “It was a nightmare situation,” JD recounted, describing the strained conditions at UNMH, where overextended staff struggled to provide the necessary care.

Amidst these struggles, JD finds solace and motivation in the unwavering support of his wife, Isla, and his band. Their love and encouragement are vital sources of strength for him as he navigates this difficult journey. “The things that keep me going are my wonderful wife Isla and the band,” JD expressed with deep gratitude.

Looking forward, JD is determined to continue pursuing his passion for music. He is planning to perform at Summer Fest Nob Hill on July 21, an event eagerly anticipated by his fans. There, he will be selling vinyl copies of his new record, “Like Water,” a project that reflects his enduring spirit and creative drive.

JD Nash’s story is one of remarkable resilience and the healing power of music. His ability to find strength in the face of adversity inspires not only his fans but also the broader community. As he prepares for his upcoming performance, the support and admiration of those around him continue to fuel his fight against cancer, one note at a time.

Photos Courtesy of JD Nash & The Rash Of Cash

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How One ABQ School’s Gardening Program is Shaping the Environment!

In a world where sustainability and healthy living are becoming increasingly important, Wilson Middle School’s gardening program is making waves in the education sector. “Growing into the Future” is not only teaching students how to grow their own food but also inspiring them to become environmentally conscious citizens, all while having fun in the process!

The program began a decade ago in an empty lot, where students rolled up their sleeves and got their hands dirty, cleaning up the area and preparing the soil. Fast forward to today, and this once-empty lot has transformed into a half-acre garden brimming with life, including pollinator and vegetable sections.

APS Education Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting innovative learning opportunities for Albuquerque Public Schools, recognized the potential of this program and awarded it a grant. This funding enabled the gardening program to expand its horizons, providing opportunities for elementary school students to visit the garden and learn from their older peers.

By introducing gardening programs in every school, we can create a greener, healthier society. Students will learn valuable skills that promote sustainable living, and in turn, they can use these skills to grow fresh, nutritious food. This has the potential to transform our cities into urban utopias, where school lunches no longer rely on unhealthy, cheap options, but rather on the fruits of the students’ labor.

One of the many benefits of gardening education is that it encourages students to make healthier food choices. By growing their own produce, they develop a connection to the food they eat and are more likely to consume fruits and vegetables. As a result, they are less inclined to indulge in processed and unhealthy foods.

Additionally, gardening programs can foster a strong sense of community, with students, teachers, and residents working together to maintain the garden and green spaces. This shared responsibility instills a sense of pride in the local environment and encourages everyone to contribute to its well-being.

Imagine a city where every school has a thriving garden, where students of all ages work together to grow their own food, and where environmental stewardship is a core value. This vision could become a reality if we invest in gardening education and empower our youth to make a difference in their communities.

In conclusion, Wilson Middle School’s “Growing into the Future” gardening program serves as an inspiring example of how education can shape a greener society. By teaching students the skills required to grow their own food, we can empower them to make healthier choices and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Let’s embrace this innovative approach and encourage every school to incorporate gardening programs into their curriculum. Together, we can create a world where environmentally conscious citizens work hand-in-hand to build a greener, healthier society for generations to come.

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End of an Era: Iconic Albuquerque Restaurant Succumbs to Post-Pandemic Pressures

El Cotorro, a beloved Albuquerque eatery, is closing its doors permanently as of April 20, 2023. The restaurant has been a fixture of the Albuquerque food scene for years, known for its high-quality tacos, homemade salsas, and gelato-style ice creams with Mexico City flavors.

In a statement, the staff, management, and owner of El Cotorro thanked their customers for their years of patronage and support. They explained that their labor-intensive concept, featuring dishes like braised oxtail and house-smoked lamb barbacoa, has become financially unviable in the elevated post-pandemic cost of doing business.

See for yourself here

The news of El Cotorro’s closure has hit the Albuquerque community hard, with many expressing their sadness and disappointment on social media. Reviewers on sites like Yelp and Google praised the restaurant’s unique flavors and high-quality ingredients. Some reviewers specifically mentioned the chard/potato/purslane vegan taco, the deep-fried nopales vegetarian taco, and the celebrated braised oxtail taco as standout menu items.

Despite the high praise, some reviewers also had complaints about El Cotorro. One recurring issue was the handling of customers with dietary restrictions, particularly gluten allergies. Reviewers mentioned a lack of communication and training between the kitchen and front staff regarding specific cooking procedures, such as frying potatoes or chips in the same oil as items with flour. Some also expressed frustration with the sous chef’s opinions about gluten intolerance, which were not backed by science.

It’s clear that El Cotorro will be missed by many in Albuquerque, both for its delicious food and its role in the community. The restaurant often hosted events and fundraisers for local organizations, and its closure marks the end of an era.

However, it’s important to remember that El Cotorro is just one of many small businesses struggling in the post-pandemic world. Rising costs and labor shortages have made it difficult for many restaurants to stay afloat. It’s crucial that we support our local businesses and restaurants, especially during these challenging times.

In conclusion, the closure of El Cotorro is a sad moment for the Albuquerque food scene. While the restaurant had its flaws, it was a unique and beloved part of the community. As we move forward, let’s remember the importance of supporting our local businesses and restaurants, and let’s hope that the next generation of Albuquerque eateries will carry on the tradition of high-quality, creative cuisine.

The closure of El Cotorro serves as a stark reminder of the lasting impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on local restaurants. Despite the beloved eatery’s best efforts, post-pandemic struggles with elevated costs of doing business and labor-intensive concepts proved insurmountable. As we bid farewell to El Cotorro, we can’t help but reflect on the challenges faced by restaurants in the wake of the pandemic and the need for continued support for our local eateries.

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Johnny James: Albuquerque’s Talented Influencer and Creator

Johnny James, an Albuquerque-based influencer, has quickly become a recognizable figure in the city, thanks to his unique and engaging content that highlights the rich culture and identity of Albuquerque. With a knack for creating viral content, Johnny James has captured the hearts of locals and beyond.

One notable example of Johnny’s creative prowess is the Reels series “If GTA was in ABQ,” where he humorously imagines how an NPC in the game “Grand Theft Auto” would act if set in Albuquerque. While not the sole focus of his work, this series has gained considerable attention, with one of the videos amassing 1.3 million views to date.

In addition to his viral content, Johnny James showcases his diverse talents through music, often sharing his creations on Instagram under the handle @iamjohnnyjames. His passion for music extends to his appearances on the Respect The Connect podcast, where he discusses various topics with friends and fellow creatives.

Johnny’s love for Albuquerque is further evident in his clothing brand, which features the popular local slogan “All Sick” on hoodies and baseball caps. This phrase has become synonymous with the city, and Johnny’s brand helps to promote and celebrate Albuquerque’s unique identity.

Johnny James has also embraced the role of a “Stereotypical Burqueno,” a character originally popularized by Blackoutdigital’s YouTube video “Shit Burquenos Say” featuring “Lynnette.” Through his content, Johnny has managed to bring this character to life, resonating with Albuquerque residents who recognize the slang, look, and charm of the quintessential Burqueno.

While his “GTA in ABQ” series may have initially propelled Johnny James into the limelight, it’s his consistent ability to create relatable and entertaining content that has solidified his position as an influential figure in Albuquerque. His diverse range of talents, from music to fashion, is a testament to his dedication to showcasing the city’s vibrant culture.

Whether you’re a local or just someone interested in discovering Albuquerque’s unique charm, Johnny James’ Instagram is a must-follow. His engaging content provides a glimpse into the city’s culture and offers a fresh perspective on what it means to be a proud Albuquerque resident.

Conclusion, or no

In conclusion, Johnny James is more than just the creator of a viral Reels series; he is a true ambassador for Albuquerque, shining a light on the city’s distinctive identity and culture. As he continues to develop his skills and grow his influence, there’s no doubt that Johnny James will remain an essential voice for the people of Albuquerque, and his passion for the city will continue to inspire others to explore and appreciate all that it has to offer.

Check this out, eeee

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Best of “Best of Burque Music 2018”

weekly alibis best of burque 2018

In case you missed the Weekly Alibi’s Best of Burque Music event on Saturday, here I have some pictures and videos, with captions that capture the spirit of the Event. I asked many performers, organizers, and attendees, what their thoughts were on the event. Most people agreed saying “it was better back in the day”. I wasn’t around back in the day, and thus had fun at the 2018 event nonetheless. Continue reading “Best of “Best of Burque Music 2018””