This weekend, March 10, we turn our clocks forward one hour once again “to save daylight and time”. The only thing that happens is that we are all confused temporarily and keep relating to the “real” time. How about we pick one and stay with it like some other states have done? Also, March 10th is Harriet Tubman Day.
The exact days for Daylight Savings Time are set by federal law, but the dates have shifted over the years. Currently, daylight savings time starts on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November. Those days went into effect in 2007 as part of the Energy Policy Act passed when George W. Bush was president.
Scientists have linked changing time twice a year to several health and safety issues. A study in 2016, for example, found that the rate of strokes is 8% higher in the first two days after either time change. A 2020 study connected the springtime change to a 6% rise in traffic accidents. And a 2017 study found the fall time change resulted in an 11% increase in symptoms of depression reported at hospitals. Doctors think the reason for these impacts is due to a lack of sunlight, as well as disruptions to circadian rhythms. Some experts think it would be better to stick with DST year-round, while others think standard time all the time would be best. Just pick one.
Time change does indicate we are getting closer to spring. I am ready for spring and the growing season. Everything is “waking up” from winter. Fruit trees are starting to have buds for their fruit. Let’s hope it doesn’t freeze. Easter is March 31st.
Lynn Siverts tells me that about 400 people attended the open house and ribbon cutting for the new gym. He based that on the amount of food consumed. Probably not the most accurate way to count, but there were a lot of people and the band was good. Good job, Lynn!
The Animal Services Building should be finished by the end of March and ready to provide accommodations for the animals that need it. Not only has Facility Build been able to help us with limited construction, but the Dennis Friends Foundation, a trust providing for the care of animals, was able to fund the initial expense of the prefabricated building. Funds were also received from County Commissioner Katherine Bruch to assist in the purchase and additions. Some modifications to the structure were necessary for the permits and that caused a delay.
HEALTH AND SAFETY UPDATE
New Mexico is still VERY High when it comes to respiratory illnesses. Take steps to stay healthy. Practice good basic health and hygiene such as hand washing, stay up to date with vaccines such as COVID, Flu and RSV. Improve ventilation at home and work, if you feel ill get tested, if you are sick stay home, seek medical treatment (both COVID and Flu have treatment options), avoid contact with sick persons and masking in crowded areas with a N95 or KN95. For in-depth information on each of these ways to help prevent illness, visit. CDC COVID vaccine guidelines state that all adults 65 years and older should receive a second dose of the 2023/2024 COVID vaccine. The only restriction is the second vaccination needs to be at least 4-months from your first 2023/2024 vaccine. If you do not have insurance and need a COVID vaccine or need assistance, please reach out to Deputy Chief Lattin 505-702-4182.
UPCOMING EVENTS
WEDNESDAY Story Time at the Library 10 AM
MARK YOUR CALENDAR:
March 16 – Celtic fiddler and cellist Alisdair Fraser and Natalie Haas will perform at 7:30 PM as part of the Music in Corrales schedule. This event is sold out, but you can get on a waiting list for tickets by arriving to the Old Church by 6:30 PM.
March 16 – Bosque clean up, meet at south end of Andrews Lane at the levee on 10 AM until 12 PM. Wear sturdy gloves.
March 17 – Corrales Historical Society Speaker Series presents “Oppenheimer, Back in Los Alamos, Perilous Times” by Los Alamos resident Nancy Bartlit at 2 PM at the Historic Old San Ysidro Church. This event is FREE.
Hopefully, your allergies are under control. Juniper pollen is apparently the culprit at this time. Watch out for your neighbors while out and about. Honor the posted speed limits. Be sure to leash your dog when walking in the Village, on the ditches, or in the Bosque. Remember to scoop the poop.
Stay healthy and be safe.
Jim Fahey
Mayor