The mental health crisis so many people are facing right now has not abated, and it has been impacting people of all ages. January and February are normally difficult times for many, and the numerous variables associated with COVID shutdowns have only made things much worse. The Chaves County’s Sheriff’s Department sadly reported three suicides last Sunday in that county. In a letter to the community, Sheriff Mike Herrington said first responders never forget having to respond to such tragedies. He asked everyone in the community to pray for the families, first responders and victims of these tragic events. The National Suicide Hotline is 1-800-273-8255. Please call the hotline if needed or let any of us know if we can assist in any way. For a list of local mental health options available in Eddy County, please visit https://www.echealthcouncil.org/mhs. Please continue to reach out to those in our community you believe may be feeling isolated.
COVID-update. There were 49 new positive COVID-19 cases reported for Eddy County on Saturday and 44 new positive cases reported on Sunday, as well as one COVID-related death. The state’s “gating criteria” will be updated again on Wednesday, with the previous two weeks of data being used to determine which counties remain in the “red” category and which have moved into “yellow.” We expect to see a slight improvement for Eddy County, but not to the level needed to move into the yellow category.
At earthquake was reported last week, according to the United States Geological Survey. The 2.6 magnitude earthquake was recorded at 4 a.m. Dec. 23 near Guadalupe Mountains National Park and Whites City. The earthquake was recorded at a depth of 3.1 miles. It was reportedly the second earthquake within a month in this area, with the other one taking place on Dec. 17 further to the south.
If you live off of or near Callaway Drive, please plan a little extra time for your trips this week. Callaway improvements began Monday and are taking place from the intersection of Pierce and Callaway to the low water crossing. The next phase will be from the low water crossing to the entrance to Quail Hollow. Please obey all posted detours during this time and we look forward to this project being completed very quickly. Finally, our solid waste pickup schedule will run as normal this week, with the exception of Friday. Friday’s pickup will instead take place on Saturday. Our convenience station will also only be closed on New Year’s Day.
Sincerely,
Carlsbad Mayor Dale Janway