Morning
Albuquerque
Wednesday, May 21st, 2025
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Good morning, Albuquerque. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 21st of May.
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ New Mexico Economic Development Department will launch a new Technology and Innovation Office on July 1 to support startups and boost tech growth — a move created by House Bill 20 sponsored by Rep. Meredith Dixon that allocated over $90 million for research and development — and it will merge the existing Strategy, Science and Technology division while retaining its director. Source NM
- ➤ Visit Albuquerque expects a slower summer tourism season as inflation pressures and competition from other destinations push domestic travelers to plan budget-friendly trips & reduce international visits. The New Mexico Tourism Department noted that interest in the state has grown 6% in the past two months and that the Route 66 Centennial next summer is expected to boost local business and support jobs. KOAT
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Six counties and the Mescalero Apache Reservation imposed new fire restrictions Monday due to high wildfire risk, and 23 jurisdictions now have burn bans in effect. The rules limit building fires and smoking outdoors—steps officials say help reduce accidental wildfires—while rising drought and heat continue to heighten fire dangers. Source NM
- ➤ State environmental officials are evaluating emergency action after the Camino Real Regional Utility Authority recorded another arsenic violation on May 7 at its Santa Teresa Industrial Park plant. The utility serves about 19,000 residents in Doña Ana County, Sunland Park and Santa Teresa, and officials may use emergency powers to order alternate water supplies—if further tests confirm an imminent threat. Source NM
- ➤ The State Forestry Division has put fire restrictions on state lands in central New Mexico including Bernalillo, Sandoval and Valencia counties for Memorial Day weekend because dry winds make fires more likely. The restrictions will stay until conditions improve after the monsoon starts. KKOB
- ➤ Bird migration is underway in New Mexico as nearly 10 million birds passed in one night earlier this month—up from 2.6 million last month—with species including yellow warblers, black-headed grosbeaks, and hummingbirds. Brian Anderson from the Central New Mexico Bird Alliance urges residents to help keep the birds safe by turning off unnecessary lights and closing curtains. KOAT
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Albuquerque City Council approved its $1.5 billion 2026 budget today, which funds police with nearly $274 million and fire services with about $129 million while keeping investments in homelessness response and family services intact. The measure raises pay for City employees and sets one-year objectives to review progress on housing, public safety, infrastructure, and the economy — a step toward strengthening city services. KOAT
- ➤ The New Mexico State Auditor ordered a special audit of Mora County after an accountant found $2.7 million unaccounted for—raising concerns over the management of wildfire recovery funds. State Auditor Joseph Maestas said on May 20 that county officials will meet soon to review the matter—further inquiries may lead to criminal charges. KOAT
- ➤ New Mexico’s agency that handles SNAP benefits refused to share recipients’ names, dates of birth & social security numbers with the federal government after a May 6 request raised legal questions. Fidelity Information Services confirmed it will not release the data as USDA plans to issue additional guidance. Source NM
SHOP NEWS
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Brindemos Video Premiere & Concert
6-9 p.m. — Casa Rondeña Winery — Ticket required — Experience the music video premiere of 'Brindemos' followed by a lively concert with Mariachis.
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Heart of ABQ 6.6k
9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Villa Hispana — Free entry — Celebrate Route 66 with local music, wellness screenings, and family fun at a community-focused event.
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Beekeeping at Los Poblanos Lecture
5:30 p.m. — Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm — $20 per person — Discover the synergy between beekeeping, pollination, and sustainable agriculture in New Mexico.
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Candle Making Class at Thrive Craft NM
6-9 p.m. — Thrive Craft Cannabis — Materials provided — Learn the art of candle making in a fun and relaxing atmosphere with friends.
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The High Desert Playboys - Musical Evening
7 p.m. – 1 a.m. — Voodoo Girl Pies & Pints — Tickets available — Experience a night of original Americana and high-energy bluegrass tunes.
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Public Winery Tour & Tasting
4-5 p.m. — Casa Rondeña Winery — Includes tour and 4-6 wine tastings — Discover the artistry and rich flavors behind New Mexico wines in a picturesque setting.
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Tomorrows Bad Seeds Concert
7-11 p.m. — Insideout — Ticket prices not listed — Experience a high-energy reggae-rock performance by Tomorrows Bad Seeds in Albuquerque.
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June Wednesday Evening Hand Building
6-8 p.m. — Creativity Warehouse — Check local listings for pricing — Create unique clay art pieces in a supportive co-ed environment.
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Tyler Childers Live Concert
7-9:30 p.m. — Isleta Amphitheater — Tickets from $43 — Enjoy an evening of soulful country music under the stars with Tyler Childers.
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Johnny Mullenax Live Performance
6 PM - 12 AM — ABQ BioPark Zoo — Entry fee applicable — Enjoy an evening of live music, wildlife, and family fun at Zoo Music.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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Reveal the authorAbout Morning Albuquerque
Welcome to the Morning Albuquerque, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Albuquerque, New Mexico community. If you like the Morning Albuquerque, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Albuquerque.
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