TABLE OF CONTENTS
WELCOME!
Spring is in full swing, and with it comes some exciting changes! One of the biggest is right on the front of this newsletter—our brand-new City of Carlsbad logo makes its debut this month. This fresh look reflects our community’sspirit,history,andbrightfuture.
Inside, you’ll find a message from Mayor Lopez, highlighting key updates and upcoming projects. Be sure to also check out this month’s Note from the Editor, alongwithourDepartmentFeatureontheAlejandroRuiz Senior Center, showcasing the incredible services and programstheyoffer.
April is packed with events, from local celebrations to community gatherings, so don’t miss out on all the excitinghappeningsaroundtown. Connect with Us
Instagram:
@keep.carlsbad.beautiful
Facebook:
@cityofcarlsbadnmgovernment
@keepcarlsbadbeautiful
Indeed: @CityofCarlsbadNM
LinkedIn: @CityofCarlsbadNMTourism
YouTube:
Past Event Photos
Did you get snapped at our latest events? Check check our social media to see if you were snapped!
A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
Dear Neighbors & Friends:
Happy Easter! I hope everyone enjoys the holiday in the company of family and friends.
I have a few updates I’d like to share with everyone. The first is the new City of Carlsbad logo, which we released on March 24. Our team worked with designers behind the scenes for several months to create a refreshed look. When designing the logo, we wanted to modernize it without straying too far from the old design. One of our main goals was to simplify it, as the previous version had many elements that made it feel too crowded. We chose to keep the caverns and the flume, as both are key symbols of our community. The caverns represent a big part of Carlsbad’s identity, while the flume is a unique landmark that sets us apart.
We are also getting closer to the opening day of the Cavern Theatre. This project has been in the works for several years, and we are all excited to see this historic venue restored to its original glory. We expect the Cavern Theatre to open early this summer, with MainStreet taking over operations. We are confident that MainStreet will do an excellent job bringing new life to the theatre. Along with movies, the theatre will host live performances. We are still looking into additional buildings in the area that could serve as prop storage and dressing rooms for costume changes in larger theatre productions. Stay tuned for an official opening date.
www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com
We are also in the final design stage for Shorthorn Park. More details will be sharedatthegroundbreaking.
In other news, many of you may have noticed that the lower part of the river has been drained. This was done to complete much-needed reinforcements at the Bank of Lower Tansill. As part of this project, we have also added more shade structures and additional parking. We expect to refill the river by the end of the month.
A floating bridge is also in the works. This bridge will feature scenic outlooks along the path, providing new opportunities to enjoy the lake. It will also serve asasaferouteforpedestriantravel.
Sincerely,
Email: mayor.office@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Phone: (575) 887-1191
CarlsbadMayorRickLopez
Pets of the Month
Meet the adorable pets of our City of Carlsbad employees!
Name: Jake and Remi
Pawrent(s): Tony and Angela Hernandez
Jake and Remi like to hang out in the front yard and people-watch.
Name: Luna
Pawrent: Pat Brownfield
Luna is the Alfa female and keeps or tries to keep the others in line!
Name: Goose
Pawrent: Trysha Ortiz
He's 80 lbs and 100% a lap dog. Oh you were sitting there? So is he.
Name: Storm
Pawrent: Hayley Coburn
She is the silliest dog, absolutely in love with her friend Goose (the cat)!
Name: Theodore “Squishy” Castillo
Pawrent(s): Albert and Naomi Castillo
The way he shows affection is by growling at you!
Name: Kai Gaara
Pawrent: Ayana Estrada
The goodest boy named after my favorite anime character!
Name: Sully
Pawrent: Nickole Simpkins
If she hears you getting ice, you better be prepared to share.
Name: Otis Ornelas-Hernandez
Pawrent: Vanessa Ornelas
He likes to sit down right in your walking path, loves to eat anything you put in front of him including the baseboards, and if you allow it he will take up the entire bed! www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Spring is here, and with it comes exciting updates for the City of Carlsbad. One of the biggest changes you may have noticed is our new logo. While we wanted a fresh, cohesive look, it was just as important to keep elements of our previous design that reflect our city’s identity. We kept the Zia symbol around the “Carlsbad” text and ensured that three of our most iconic landmarks, the Carlsbad Caverns, the Flumes, and the Pecos River, remained part of the design.
To make this vision a reality, we worked closely with local graphic designers to create something modern yet familiar. The yellow featured in the logo was inspired by the same shade found in the New Mexico state flag, reinforcing our deepconnectiontothestatewecallhome.
Beyond our visual branding, we are also working on new strategies to improve recruitment efforts. One of the biggest shifts we want to embrace is the use of video content. With reels and TikTok becoming dominant ways to engage audiences, we see a great opportunity to showcase what makes Carlsbad a fantastic place to work and live. Incorporating more videos will help us connect with a wider audience in a way that feels both personalanddynamic.
We are also excited to announce the launch of a new subscription service that will allow community members to sign up for notifications and alerts through text or email based on their interests. Whether you want to receive updates about road closures, water leaks, construction, or upcoming events, you will be able to customize your preferences. You can choose whether you want to receive messages via text, email, or both. We recognize that many residents do not use Facebook and we want to ensure that everyone has access to important information in a way that works best for them.
On another exciting note, planning for this year’s Fourth of July celebration is already underway. We are working hard to make sure this year’s fireworks show is even bigger and better than last year’s. Carlsbad takes pride in putting on a spectacular Independence Day celebration and we cannot wait to share more details soon. Stay tuned because this is one event you will not want to miss. Thank you for being part of Carlsbad’s journey. We are looking forward to all the great things ahead.
Sincerely,
ValeriaBannister
Communication Specialist
APRIL EMPLOYEE POLLS
We had our City of Carlsbad Employees take a brief poll about the upcoming month of April. See how your responses compare to theirs!
What’s the best Easter Candy?
If you could have one superpower at work, what would it be?
What’s the biggest challenge you face in your day-to-day work?
What’s your ideal three-day weekend?
If Carlsbad could get a new restaurant, what type would you want?
What’s your favorite classic Carlsbad spot to take out-of-town visitors?
Alejandro Ruiz Senior Center
DEPARTMENT SPOTLIGHT
Big things are happening at the Alejandro Ruiz Senior Center. We’re getting a full renovation that will give us more space for activities and add some great new features. Soon, our members and the community will be able to enjoy outdoor fitness equipment, a pickleball court, and a walking trail. We’re also improving the landscaping and adding more parking. These updates will make thecenterevenbetterforeveryonewhocomeshere.
Our center is more than just a place to hang out. We offer a variety of services to help seniors with everyday needs. We assist with scheduling doctor appointments, income tax preparation, social security paperwork, and applications for programs like AFDC and SNAP. We also provide translation services for letters and documents from Spanish to English, legal aid referrals, and a daily noon meal through SENMCAC. Transportation is available through CommunityActionandourlocaltransitservices.
There’s never a dull moment here. Some of our most popular activities include pool, Zumba, cardio, weight training, bingo, and dominos. We also have live entertainment from The Jammers and fun evening dances thatbringeveryonetogether.
Beyond the activities, the center is a place where seniors can stay healthy and connected. We provide a space where they don’t have to feel isolated at home. They can enjoy a home-cooked, well-balanced meal, takepartinexerciseclasses,andmake
friends along the way. We also offer blood pressure and sugar level testing, as well as information sessions on Medicare benefits and home health care.
Many of our members have lost loved ones or don’t have family close by. For them, the center has
a place where they feel welcome and look forward to coming every day. Seeing them happy and engaged reminds us why this center is so important.
Getting involved is easy. Membership is free, and families are welcome to participate. We also have volunteer opportunities through the City of Carlsbad Volunteer Network. Our CCVN Coordinator helps sign up volunteers and match them with the right tasks.
We have plenty of fun events coming up, including our Easter Party and Easter Bonnet Contest, Mother’s Day Tea and Dance, Cinco de Mayo Celebration, Father’s Day Coffee and Dance, and our June Bake and Crafts Sale. These events bring people together and create great memories.
Looking ahead, I want the center to keep growing while staying the warm and welcoming place that so many people love. With more space and activities, we can offer even more for seniors to enjoy. The City of Carlsbad has done so much to support this center, and we’re grateful for everything that makes this place feel like home.
Sincerely,
AmaproVasquez ARSC Manager
Tues. April1st:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
APRIL EVENTS AND DATES
Carlsbad Public Library Stitcher’s Anonymous
SENMC Zumba Class
SENMC Build Your First Bot Coding and Robotics Competition
Trivia Night at Milton’s Brewing
SENMC Introduction to Podcasting
Wed. April 2nd:
Carlsbad Public Preschool Library Storytime
Carlsbad Public Library Lego Time
SENMC Build Your First Bot Coding and Robotics Competition
SENMC Introduction to Guitar
SENMC Basic Computer Skills w/ Microsoft Office
SENMC Line Dancing
Thurs. April 3rd:
Carlsbad Public Library Baby Time
United Way of Eddy County Victory Lunch and Annual Meeting
SENMC Introduction to Italian
SENMC Introduction to Basic Ceramics
Carlsbad Farmers & Makers Market
Fri. April 4th:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
Karaoke/Open Mic at Guadalupe Brewing Company
Spring Arts and Craft Fair at North Mesa Senior Center
Sat. April 5th:
Carlsbad Public Library Easter Egg Hunt
CARC Spring Opening
Mon. April 7th:
SENMC Amigurmi for Kids
SENMC Yoga
Riverwalk Recreation Center Kite Day
Tues. April 8th:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
Eddy County Health Fair at Carlsbad Medical Center
SENMC Zumba
SENMC Build Your First Bot Coding and Robotics Competition
SENMC Amigurumi for Kids
SENMC Introduction to Podcasting
Riverwalk Recreation Center Kite Day
Wed. April 9th:
Carlsbad Public Library Preschool Storytime
Carlsbad Public Library Lego Time
SENMC Build Your First Bot Coding and Robotics Competition
SENMC Amigurumi for Kids
SENMC Introduction to Guitar
SENMC Basic Computer Skills w/ Microsoft
Office
SENMC Line Dancing
Easter at the Riverwalk Recreation Center
Thurs. April 10th:
Carlsbad Public Library Baby Time
SENMC Amigurumi for Kids
SENMC Introduction to Italian
SENMC Introduction to Basic Ceramics
SENMC Taste of Culture
Carlsbad Farmers and Makers Market
Fri. April 11th:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
STEM Club Hosted by NCKRI at the Carlsbad Public Library
Karaoke/Open Mic at Guadalupe Mountain
Brewing Company
Waste Not, Wonder More Pop-Up Art Gallery at the other side of Mitlon’s
Fri. April 11th Continued:
Let it Begin Tour at the Walter Gerrells
Performing Arts Center
Sat. April 12th:
Carlsbad Public Library Dungeons and Dragons
Waste, Not Wonder More Workshops at the Carlsbad Public Library and Carlsbad Museum
Carlsbad Headstart Trunk Hop 2025
Mon. April 14th:
SENMC Yoga
Tues. April 15th:
Carlsbad Public Library Stitcher’s Anonymous
SENMC Zumba
SENMC Introduction to Podcasting
Trivia Night at Milton’s Brewing
Wed. April 16th:
Carlsbad Public Library Preschool Storytime
Carlsbad Public Library Lego Time
SENMC Introduction to Guitar
SENMC Line Dancing
Brews and Books at Milton’s Brewing
Thurs. April 17th:
Carlsbad Public Library Baby Time
SENMC Introduction to Italian
SENMC Introduction to Basic Ceramics
Carlsbad Farmers and Makers Market
Fri. April 18th:
City of Carlsbad Closed for Good Friday
Karaoke/Open Mic at Guadalupe Mountain Brewing Company
United Way presents Dancing with the Eddy County Stars
Sat. April 19th:
Carlsbad Public Library Family Storytime
Anthony the Piano Man at Cal’s Shade Western
Mon. April 21st:
SENMC Yoga
Tues. April 22nd:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
Coalition Teens in Action at the Carlsbad Public Library
SENMC Introduction to Podcasting
Riverwalk Recreation Center Earth Day
Wed. April 23rd:
Carlsbad Public Library Preschool Storytime
Carlsbad Public Library Lego Time
SENMC Introduction to Guitar
SENMC Line Dancing
Thurs. April 24th:
Carlsbad Public Library Baby Time
SENMC Mind CTRL Mental Health Series: SelfCare Bingo
SENMC Introduction to Italian
Thurs. April 24th Continued:
SENMC Introduction to Basic Ceramics
Carlsbad Farmers and Makers Market
Fri. April 25th:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
Karaoke/Open Mic at Guadalupe Mountain
Brewing Company
Sat. April 26th:
Carlsbad Public Library Dungeons and Dragons
Carlsbad Public Library Touch A Truck
Yang and Olivia at PR Leyva Auditorium
Brews on the Pecos
Mon. April 28th:
SENMC Yoga
Tues. April 29th:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
SENMC Zumba
SENMC Introduction to Podcasting
Trivia Night at Milton’s Brewing
Wed. April 30th:
Carlsbad Public Library Preschool Storytime
Carlsbad Public Library Lego Time
For
Riverwalk Recreation Center
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHTS
We would like to recognize the Unions and their participation in the Collective Bargaining Agreements negotiations. The Unions were collaborative, fair, and negotiated in good faith.
Carlsbad Police Department Association:
Christopher C. Caron, Union President
Tina R. Dorado, Union Vice President
Henry J. Castandada, Committee Member
Dana A. Hernandez, Committee Member
International Association of Fire Fighters:
Alex Luna, President
Brandon Lee, Vice President
Robert Castillo, Treasurer
Larry Yturralde, Secretary
John Riddle, Committee Member
Michael Trujillo, Committee Member
Mark Johson, Committee Member
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers:
Mike A. Najera, Union Steward
William Howell, Committee Member
Jeff Nesbit, Committee Member
United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied Industrial and Service Workers International Union:
Zane Laney, President
Kevin Quintana, Vice President
Lupe Lara, Treasurer
Donna Garza, Financial Secretary
Jessical Granger, Recording Secretary
THANK YOU!
Important Notice for Carlsbad Cemetery Visitors
The City of Carlsbad is ensuring compliance with Cemetery Rules and Regulations to maintain a respectful and orderly resting place for our loved ones.
Please take note of the following:
The public has until April 7, 2025, to remove all items, decorations, or headstones that do not comply with the Cemetery Rules and Regulations.
Any items removed by the City will be stored for 30 days before being disposed of.
This applies ONLY to the Carlsbad Cemetery and does NOT includeSantaCatarinaCemetery.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. If you have any questions or concerns, contact Diana Dorado at the Cemetery Office: 575-236-1075.
Lake Carlsbad Golf Course
We appreciate the community’s patience as we work to improve the Lake Carlsbad Golf Course for everyone to enjoy.
Here’s the latest timeline:
The Driving Range is OPEN.
The first playable 9 holes of the golf course are expected to be ready by mid-April 2025.
In the meantime, the Par 3 course and the miniature golf course remain open and ready for play. We encourage golfers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy these options while renovations are underway.
Thank you for your continued support as we enhance one of Carlsbad’s favorite recreational amenities. Stay tuned for further updates! For any questions, please call Lake Carlsbad Golf Course at (575) 885-5444.
HOLIDAY CLOSURES
Good Friday: Friday, April 18, 2025
Memorial Day: Monday, May 26, 2025
Juneteenth: Thursday, June 19, 2025
Independence Day: Friday, July 4, 2025
Labor Day: Monday, September 1, 2025
Veterans Day: Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Thanksgiving: Thursday, November 27, 2025
Day after Thanksgiving: Friday, November 28, 2025
Christmas Eve: Wednesday, December 24, 2025
Christmas Day: Thursday, December 25, 2025
New Year’s Day: Thursday, January 1, 2026
CITY COUNCIL
Rick Lopez, Mayor mayor.office@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Ward 1
Edward Rodriguez | etrodriguez@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Lisa Anaya-Flores | laflores@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Ward 2
JJ Chavez | jochavez@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Jeff Forrest | jjforrest@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Ward 3
Karla Hamel Niemeier | kjniemeier@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Mary Garwood | msgarwood@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Ward 4
Anthony Foreman | arforeman@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Mark Walterscheid | mewalterscheid@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
CITY ADMINISTRATION
Wendy Austin, City Administrator wdaustin@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Ken Ahrens, Deputy City Administrator ksahrens@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
KC Cass, Chief Operating Officer kccass@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com
