This week, blistering heat gave way to several days of cool weather and light, glorious rain and the cotton has (fingers crossed) quit flying. Temperatures are now hot but normal for July. Watch for afternoon thunderstorms or winds.
245 years ago, on July 2, 1776, the Second Congressional Congress declared independence from Great Britain and its monarch, George III. After intense debate, the Declaration of Independence was approved 2 days later, on July 4. Almost all you need to know about the strengths and challenges we still face as a nation are evident in the story of our founding. Let’s celebrate the bold vision that launched our country and reaffirm our commitment to the Declaration of Independence: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal,” and entitled to “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript; see also https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_(United_States).
On June 30, the state issued a new PHO. The color-coded system is gone, and there are no capacity limitations. Masks are not required if you are fully vaccinated but they are still recommended in close or crowded settings (https://cv.nmhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/060221-PHO.pdf). Why? Children and the unvaccinated are vulnerable to new variants. Be prepared – take a mask with you and wear it when it seems prudent to do so.
Corrales Road/ 448 construction update. Currently, the repaving on the northbound lane is at Corrales Elementary and on the southbound lane is at the post office. Cutler Repaving will begin work again on Tuesday, July 6, hopefully well-rested and fully operational.
As of Tuesday, July 6, the Village Administration Offices will be open to the public from 8 am to 5 pm. Kudos to all the Village departments (Police, Fire, Animal Services, Public Works, Planning & Zoning, Parks and Recreation, the Municipal Court and the Corrales Community Library); they never stopped providing services, despite COVID-19. Thank you all.
Now that Meadowlark Lane has been repaved, the Village is concentrating on the adjacent trail. The Village plans to have a public meeting next Thursday, July 8 at 4 pm in the Council Chambers. Please contact Village Clerk Aaron Gjullin at agjullin [at] corrales-nm.org or call him at 505-897-0502, x 208 to confirm time and date.
The Corrales Community Swimming Pool will be open this holiday weekend, 12:30-5:30 and will be free on the Fourth of July. Our pool is a special place for families; watch for a local news story. Special thanks to Parks and Recreation Director Lynn Siverts who makes it all happen despite COVID, water leaks, falling trees and what-have you.
FOCL blowout book sale this Saturday and Sunday in La Entrada Park from 9-5. Hob nob with your neighbors and fellow book/cd/dvd lovers. There will be lots to choose from; all at great prices. All proceeds go to the Corrales Community Library. Also, FOCL will have a booth at the Corrales Growers’ Market in July, offering free library bling.
July brings a great opportunity to learn more about jazz from the masters. Check out Jazz in July (by zoom) and hear from Corrales local and trumpet great Bobby Shew, as well as Diane Richardson and Joe Washek. Look for more information at https://www.corralesartscenter.org/, reach out to joann [at] moneymatters911.com or call 505-771-2244.
This weekend brings gatherings with family and friends, picnics, and barbecues, time to listen to a 4th of July playlist or a concert from the Capitol. Don’t forget to pick up something special at the Corrales Growers’ Market on Sunday from 9-12. Watch some fireworks from your deck or roof (or television) and please leave the fireworks to the professionals. Stay safe.
HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY TO US ALL!
Jo Anne Roake
Mayor of Corrales