The smoke from Arizona’s disastrous wildfire hazing New Mexico’s typically clear skies continues with no end in sight.  There is an official air quality alert out from 3 p.m. Monday, June 13 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 14, 2011. 

Though the smoke levels are expected to go down by late Tuesday morning, air quality continues to deteriorate. Due to this public health alert issued by The Environmental Health Department's Air Quality Division, people are encouraged to avoid outdoor physical activity. People suffering from heart or lung disease, older adults, and children should stay indoors especially in areas of visible smoke or the odor of smoke.

Some recommended actions for dealing with the smoky atmosphere are closing windows and doors, avoid using swamp coolers, limit time spent outdoors, and if you suffer from asthma, heart or lung disease, or any other medical condition, follow the prescribed health management plan from a health care provider.

According to the latest AmericanStyle Magazine list of “Top –25  Art Destinations: Big Cities,” Albuquerque reaches stellar heights as the number 6 pick, right behind San Francisco and Boston.  It has moved up one spot from number 7 last year, according to AmericanStyle Magazine.

For a city of its size, with a thriving art scene that includes investment and support in both public and private art, and a strong commitment to offering experiences in the arts to every segment of society, the arts are a major part of everyday life.

Mayor Richard J. Berry said of Albuquerque's listing in sixth position, "It is a proud moment for Albuquerque to be listed among major cities known for their support of the arts.

Musicians with the newly formed New Mexico Philharmonic are getting ready for their first concert this weekend at Albuquerque BioPark Zoo.

The musicians were with the New Mexico Symphony Orchestra before it went bankrupt about a month ago. New Mexico Philharmonic member, Richard White, said he is not thinking about the money but the opportunity at hand.

"I'm not concentrating on income, I'm concentrating on music at this point and so are my colleagues… and what we're excited about is this opportunity to a collaborate environment where the community business leaders get involved," White explained.

The Philharmonic said it will get on its feet quickly because of donation from musicians from across the country.