Well, the long 4th of July weekend is a scorcher. The high heat is certainly typical, but so much else is not. We all feel sad and frustrated about that. However, it does not mean we cannot fire up the grills at home and celebrate the birth of our nation.
The Village will always put your safety first in this time of pandemic. It’s been the message for months. We’ve had to cancel the vehicle-only 4th of July parade. We thought we’d be in Stage 2 by now and our cases would be down. Instead, we are spiking and some are not observing social distancing rules or wearing masks. So, we just can’t risk the possibility of a mass gathering or a super-spreader. We will get through this IF we pull together and when we do, we will have one heck of a party. But now, your safety comes first. Please read Commander Lattin’s heartfelt message at: (https://www.corrales-nm.org/fire/page/covid-19-resources-health-and-res…). On a brighter note, Albuquerque and Rio Rancho are planning firework displays that many of us should be able to see safely from our roofs or patios.
Whether you read the Albuquerque Journal or the New York Times, the message is the same: wear a mask and do not gather in large groups. Did you know the U.S. has 40,000 new COVID 19 cases per day, while more populous Europe has 6,000? We are rugged individualists, but right now we must think about what is good for our community and our country as a whole, not personal preference. Traveling for a family event or a sports conference spreads the disease. Not telling your boss you went across state lines endangers your co-workers. Please. What you do matters. Let’s show the world how great we are and work together to beat this thing.
The community is reeling from the butchering of a pony, Rocky, in his stall. This is a disgusting crime, particularly here in the Horse Capital of New Mexico. Our police and animal services have been on the alert and the New Mexico Livestock Board (NMLB) has taken up the case. As is typical of our community, Corrales equine groups are on it: CHAMP (Corrales Horse and Mule People) started a GoFundMe page, “Justice for Rocky” and are also offering a $5,000 reward (call 505-843-STOP). Please call if you have any information. Neighbors, keep a watchful eye over horses in your area. Corrales is united in its outpouring of sympathy for the horse and her owner and we never want this heinous act to be repeated.
Remember that the Corrales Community pool is open for lane swimming. Could come in handy in the 97 degree heat. Contact Parks and Recreation for details.
Wow! Corrales resident and artist Jaune Quick-to-See Smith is the first Native American to have a canvas painting ("I See Red:Target") collected by the National Gallery of Art. It is on view in the East Building Pop Art Gallery. https://images.app.goo.gl/2D5rrSiT3dA9y1Ta8 Congratulations.
Turns out Zoom can help folks make a better first impression in court. As you may know, court calendars are now done via Zoom, so everyone is on camera. On hearing Corrales Municipal Court Judge Michelle Frechette thank a man for "dressing up for court, " a man whose case had not yet come up quickly re-dressed. Shirt mis-buttoned and tie askew, he confirmed he had made a quick clothing change after hearing her earlier thank-you. Couldn't do that without Zoom! Thanks for the story, Judge.
The Corrales Growers’ Market is on this Sunday, from 9-12. They’ve been doing a great job of keeping the Market safe. Buy something to grill! Have a wonderful and safe 4th of July. Thank you for staying strong and protecting yourself and your neighbors. Whatever you do, enjoy yourself, Corrales-style.
Jo Anne Roake
Mayor of Corrales