🌱 Bank Robberies + Police Union Discusses New Contract

Hello again, Albuquerque! Important update: You all, as readers, have made the Albuquerque Daily so successful that it is my honor to announce the next stage of the newsletter. Patch is looking for a local writer and entrepreneur to take the helm of the Albuquerque Daily. Although I have loved getting to know this community, we want to pass the torch to someone truly local to write about Albuquerque long term. So if you're interested in earning extra income while making this newsletter a more valuable resource for your neighbors, learn more and apply here.

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First, today's weather:

Lots of sun; breezy, cooler. High: 45 Low: 22.

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Here are the top three stories in Albuquerque today:

1. A crash on Interstate 40 near the Rio Puerco exit affected Albuquerque commuters Wednesday. Lanes were down to one lane while the Bernalillo County Sherriff's Office assessed the situation. According to officials with the sheriff's office, no major injuries were sustained during the crash. (KRQE News 13)
2. The Western Commerce Bank on Wyoming Blvd. Northeast in Albuquerque was robbed twice within 24 hours, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. So far this year 19 banks have been robbed. That statistic far outpaces the 12 banks that were robbed in the entirety of 2020. It is currently unknown how much money was stolen from the Western Commerce Bank on Wednesday. (KOAT New Mexico)
3. Councilors with the City of Albuquerque have decided to negotiate a contract with the Albuquerque Police Union. The meeting was held on Wednesday and centered on raises for the officers. The pay increase would give new officers a starting salary of $32.89 an hour. (KRQE News 13)

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Today in Albuquerque:

• Thursday Birders At The Central New Mexico Audubon Society (8:55 AM)

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From my notebook:

• Early registration is officially open for Run for the Zoo. All participants will receive free admission to the ABQ BioPark. (Instagram)
• Five-year-old Pharaoh is a neutered dog looking for his forever home. Albuquerque Animal Welfare cares for pets in need like Pharaoh and helps get them placed into a loving home. (Facebook)
• The Albuquerque Fire Rescue is currently hiring for the 99th Cadet Class. The application deadline is rapidly approaching. Click to submit your application before Feb. 25, 2022. (Facebook)

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That's it for today. I'll see you soon!

— Erica Zenn

About me: Erica Zenn is a Masters Student in Applied Psychology at the University of Southern California who originally hails from Chapel Hill, NC. With a bachelors degree from Cornell University, Erica is an expert verbal and written communicator who brings extensive experience in employee engagement and customer experience of companies. Erica is passionate about community building, and loves using her writing and communication skills to bring people together.