Carlsbad’s students returned to regular school hours this week, though some students are still learning online through the CAVE program. While the return to regular hours is certainly good news, the morning drop off and afternoon pickup, in particular around Lea Street, is going to be very challenging. Cottonwood Elementary, the Early Childhood Education Center and, to some degree, the Sixth Grade Academy, are all funneling vehicles through the same area. This shows why a West Bypass is so important. We’re sure that the school district is working hard to make adjustments. We will certainly be working with the school district to help in any way we can to improve the flow of traffic. Let’s hope that our students, parents and educators all have a great week.
We’re taking nominations for our “Spirit of Carlsbad” awards through Wednesday, March 31. We have open nomination for five categories: Humanitarian of the Year, Citizen of the Year, Humanitarian Student of Year (Must be a graduating senior), Citizen of the Year (Must be a graduating senior) and outstanding nonprofit. We’ve received an unbelievable list of nominations so far, and we look forward to honoring a few of the men, women and organizations who make Carlsbad so special. You can send nominations to mayor.office@cityofcarlsbadnm.com or just drop them off at city hall. We are planning to recognize all nominees in May. This event is sponsored by the Ricky Garcia Foundation, the United Way of Eddy County, the Carlsbad Current Argus and the City of Carlsbad.
You’ll be seeing some construction going on Canal Street this week. We’re doing landscaping in the medians beginning on Monday. We will start at Stevens Street and work our way south. North and Southbound inside lanes will be shut down during this time period. Please drive carefully and obey all posted notifications.
Former Carlsbad High standout Trevor Rogers is getting a great deal of respect this week. Trevor recorded ten more strikeouts in 5.2 innings pitched on Friday night. He gave up two hits and a walk. During his 19 exhibition innings with the Marlins, Trevor recorded 29 strikeouts – the highest total in Major League Baseball for the spring training season. Sports writer Ely Sussman concluded his evaluation by saying the Marlins made a great choice when they drafted Rogers in 2017. Baseball’s regular season begins on April 1.
Another step has been taken to simplify the process for New Mexicans seeking COVID-19 vaccinations. The New Mexico Department of Health has announced that residents 75 and older who are registered at vaccineNM.org will no longer need event codes to schedule appointments. They will still need an event code to receive their vaccine. If you know of anyone who is interested in receiving a vaccination who has been having trouble, please let us know.
Sincerely,
Carlsbad Mayor Dale Janway