🌱 Open Space Division Reworked + Albuquerque Worst Allergies In US

Hello, everybody. I'm back in your inbox this morning with everything you need to know about what's happening in town.

But first, today's weather:

Breezy in the afternoon. High: 77 Low: 47.

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Here are the top three stories in Albuquerque today:

1. The Albuquerque Police Department has restructured its Open Space Division, which now comprises 12 members, including seven collateral officers and five Police Service Aides (PSAs). The team targets crime in open spaces, responds to calls, and monitors camping, parking lots, and fires. The community has given positive feedback about the PSAs' presence, and only six open-space calls have been received in the past six months. The department plans to post more collateral positions during the summer to expand the team's efficiency. (KRQE 13 News)
2. You are not alone if you suffer from itchy eyes and a runny nose: Albuquerque has been named the “Worst City in the U.S. for Allergy Sufferers." Allergy and immunology specialist, Dr. Jack Ghably, said that Albuquerque has unique factors that worsen allergies, including the fact that all the trees in the city are native to the east coast. The City of Albuquerque has pollen trackers placed throughout the city to help residents stay informed of allergen levels, and experts recommend taking precautions such as keeping windows closed, washing hair and clothes after being outside, and using air filters. (Kob 4 News)
3. Hikers in the Bear Canyon Open Space area in the heights of New Mexico are concerned after someone drove over the trail, ruining plants and cacti. Many hikers have never seen anything like this and want to know who did it. A spokesperson from the city confirmed that the Department of Municipal Development repaired a drainage system over the weekend but it is unclear if that is what caused the destruction. (KRQE 13 News)

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Today in Albuquerque:

• Cinco De Mayo Celebration At Sadie's On 4th St (11:00 AM - 10:00 PM)
• First Fridays Comedy Contest At Tractor Brewing Wells Park (8:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• The Santa Fe Animal Shelter and Humane Society are immediately seeking fosters for two baby kittens. They require bottle feedings and will need a family who can care for them every two to three hours until they are capable of feeding from the bowl. (Santa Fe Animal Shelter & Humane Society via Facebook)
• Join the Albuquerque Turkish Food and Culture Fair Saturday, May 6 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The event will feature Turkish and Meditteranean Cuisine like baklava, Turkish coffee, and more. (Visit Albuquerque)
• Before you grab the sunscreen for a fun-filled day at the pool next week, note that public pools in Albuquerque will be closed on May 13 for one-day only. (City of Albuquerque Aquatics via Facebook)

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Thanks for following along and staying informed! I'll see you around.

— 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.