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December 24.2025
2 Minutes Read

How Downtown Crime Drives Up Insurance Costs for El Rey Theater Owners

Historic downtown theater highlighting importance of crime insurance rates.

The Crippling Impact of Crime on Local Business

The Historic El Rey Theater, a downtown Albuquerque gem, has been battling an unexpected adversary: skyrocketing insurance rates driven by increasing crime rates. In 2018, the annual insurance costs for the theater owners—Aaron "Buck" Burnett, Joe Anderson, Alejandro "Hano" Blake, and Wes Edling—were approximately $36,000. Fast forward to 2024, and that figure surged to a staggering $132,000. According to Burnett, insurance brokers are turning away from downtown coverage due to a growing fear of crime.

The Consequences of Crime

It's not just the insurance companies that are feeling the impact; the theater's operations are affected too. Burnett recounted a security guard being shot outside the venue and break-ins that have resulted in stolen alcohol. The flood of incidents raises a practical concern: with deductibles as lofty as $20,000, many owners like Burnett opt not to file claims, potentially exacerbating their financial struggles.

Calls for Action and Community Support

Burnett’s frustrations have led him to call for a larger police presence in downtown Albuquerque. He believes that the optimistic portrayal of downtown by local officials, particularly Mayor Tim Keller, does not reflect the reality on the ground. Despite claims of local improvements, Burnett feels that safety issues persist, making it essential for businesses to advocate for their security. On the bright side, the El Rey is also championing local music and culture with an exciting lineup of shows, even planning to expand its footprint with a new speakeasy location.

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12.25.2025

Discover Camping Gear Designed for Kids: Morrison Outdoors' Journey

Update The Birth of Morrison Outdoors: From Family Inspiration to Business Success Inspiration can strike in the most unexpected ways, even during a camping trip with your newborn. For Tavis and Amber Malcolm, it was during a chilly night in 2018 when they realized their son Morrison, affectionately nicknamed Mo, needed a better sleeping solution. The young couple bundled him up, but it was clear that Mo wasn’t cozy enough. This revelation sparked an idea that would ultimately lead to the creation of Morrison Outdoors, a company designed to equip families with kid-friendly camping gear. After some trial and error, Tavis used two down throw blankets and a zipper to create a customized sleeping bag specifically for infants. He named it the “Baby Mo” sleeping bag, and it quickly became a hit. By Labor Day, not only was Mo snuggled up in his new bag, but the Malcolm family was also on the brink of a new business venture. With the success of this initial prototype, Tavis made the bold decision to leave his job and pursue Morrison Outdoors full-time. Adventurous Product Line for Little Explorers Morrison Outdoors is about more than just one sleeping bag for babies. The growing company offers an impressive range of products designed for little adventurers of all ages. From the Big Mo kids sleeping bag priced at $80 to playful, comfortable T-shirts for just $10, there’s something for every young camper. Accessories like rainsuits, hoodies, and backpacks complete the lineup, making it easy for families to gear up for outdoor adventures. Even better, Morrison Outdoors promotes sustainability through its trade-in program, which offers credit for used gear. “None of our bags are wasted,” asserts Tavis, emphasizing their commitment to reducing waste and supporting the environment. Shark Tank Fame and Expansion A significant milestone for Morrison Outdoors came when Tavis and Amber appeared on Shark Tank. This prized exposure brought them a larger audience and thousands of new customers. With an already thriving online business through their website and Amazon, the addition of major retailers like REI and Scheels further solidified their place in the camping gear market. A Focus on Family and Community What truly sets Morrison Outdoors apart is its foundation in family values. The entire concept revolves around making camping accessible and enjoyable for families with children. “Mo's the reason Morrison Outdoors exists,” Tavis proudly shares, highlighting the personal connection behind the business. The Malcolm family's journey showcases not only the entrepreneurial spirit but also the importance of community support in small business success. Morrison Outdoors resonates with parents who prioritize quality products for their children, blending adventure with comfort and safety. Gear Up for Adventure! If you're a parent looking to introduce your kids to the great outdoors, or simply searching for quality camping gear, consider checking out Morrison Outdoors. Their products are available via Amazon and directly on their website morrisonoutdoors.com. Equip your family with gear that enhances your adventures while ensuring everyone, especially the little ones, stays warm and comfortable. Happy camping!

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