Welcome to the July Edition of the City of Carlsbad Newsletter! Summer is here, and Carlsbad is celebrating in a big way. This month’s issue features details on our annual Red, White, and Blue on the River celebration, an all-day 4th of July event full of food, music, and fireworks along the Pecos River.
We’re also highlighting the long-awaited reopening of the Cavern Theatre, a downtown landmark with deep roots in our community’s history. Plus, don’t miss our Department Spotlight on the Municipal Court, where you’ll learn more about their role and services.
Have a great month and a happy Fourth of July!
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A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
Dear Neighbors & Friends:
Happy 4th of July! I wish you and your families a safe and meaningful Independence Day. This time of year, is always special in Carlsbad as we gather together to celebrate the spirit of our community and the freedom we are so fortunate to enjoy. Thank you for being a part of what makes Carlsbad a great community to live.
Our Fourth of July Celebration: Red, White and Blue on the River is packed with fun activities for all ages This year ’ s lineup includes the morning parade, foam and gellyball entertainment, a watermelon-eating contest, music from DJ G Money, and live performances by Band Big Springs, Grupo Maldad, Topo Chico Cowboys, and Grupo Veneno. We will close out the evening with the best fireworks display in Southeast New Mexico over the Pecos River. All activities are free and open to the public, and we hope to see you and your family enjoying the celebration
If you are looking for even more to do on the 4th, the Carlsbad Water Park and the Miniature Golf Course will both remain open during the holiday. The fun continues on July 5th with the Glow Miniature Golf Tournament hosted by United Way of Eddy County I will be playing Representative Cathrynn Brown this year We are tied 1-1 on the times we’ve competed and I’m looking to pull ahead!
While we celebrate, I want to remind everyone to keep a close eye on your pets. Fireworks can be overwhelming for animals, so please make sure your pets are safe and secure The summer heat is also something to watch carefully Make sure your pets have access to fresh water and shade, and avoid walking them on hot pavement during peak temperatures.
We are also happy to report that improvements at the Lake Carlsbad Golf Course are going well. The driving range and championship course are now open to the public, and we anticipate the entire project to be complete by August 1, 2025 Thank you to everyone who has supported this important update to one of our most popular recreational areas.
Another exciting community update is the successful reopening of the Cavern Theatre. The grand opening was a great success and we are thrilled to see this historic downtown venue brought back to life. More movies will be showing soon. For the latest updates and schedules, please follow the Cavern Theatre Facebook page.
Finally, we want to thank Mother Nature for the much-needed rain we have received recently While the rainfall is appreciated, it also leads to increased weed growth We ask that residents and business owners help keep Carlsbad beautiful by staying on top of yard and property maintenance. Taking care of weeds helps improve curb appeal and also helps reduce fire risks during the summer months.
Thank you for your ongoing support and your commitment to our city I hope you and your families have a joyful and safe Independence Day. We look forward to seeing you out and about this July as we celebrate our freedom and country
Sincerely,
CarlsbadMayorRickLopez
Email: mayor office@cityofcarlsbadnm com
Phone: (575) 887-1191
CAVERN THEATRE HISTORY
June 21, 2025, marks a special moment in Carlsbad’s history For the first time since 1981, the Cavern Theatre reopened to the public! Though the movie theatre operated at that location from 1951 to 1981, its roots trace back to 1926, two blocks south of its current location Read on to explore the legacy that led to the upcoming reopening
Submitted by the Carlsbad Museum
On Canyon Street in downtown Carlsbad, the history of the northeast corner of Canyon & Mermod, which today houses Bennie’s Western Wear, Treasured Moments, Dunagan Property Management, and ERA Montgomery, is steeped in prestige. It was home to Eddy’s first grand hotel, a landmark known by several names over its nearly three-decade life
The Hagerman Hotel began construction in January 1890, and it opened its doors on July 17 of that year. In 1896, the name changed to the Hotel Windsor. That same year, the Schlitz Brewing Company arrived in town, launching the short-lived sugar beet factory By 1899, Schlitz had purchased the hotel and rebranded it as the Hotel Schlitz. In 1913, the Bates brothers took ownership and renamed it Hotel Bates, which they operated until a fire destroyed the building on June 21, 1918, just weeks shy of its 28th anniversary.
The six lots sat empty until the summ-
-er of 1925, when the Magnolia filling station opened at the corner of Mermod and Canyon. Around that time, Charley Pardue and Bob Morrison of Loving, owners of multiple regional theaters, set up the Delight Airdome, an early outdoor movie venue under a canvas canopy, which hosted both films and live
plays on the lot. Within a year, Pardue and Morrison partnered with Mr. Carter to construct the Carter Building, the two-story building still standing today Pardue and Morrison then brought in E.S. Trieb, who founded the original Cavern Theatre on the site of the Delight Airdome The building also boasted law and chiropractic offices upstairs, and retail space on the ground floor. The Cavern Theatre operated there until 1946, when it was renamed the Corral Theatre, a discount cinema By 1949, it had shuttered, and Mandell’s clothing store, which occupied the southern half of the building, expanded north into the former theater, converting it into retail space Meanwhile, a new Cavern Theatre building began construction two blocks north in 1947, but due to post-war shortages and a film projectionists' union strike, it wasn't completed and opened until 1951
Upon its grand opening in its new location on April 3, 1951, the “New Cavern Theatre” screened Bill Mauldin’s Up Front, a comedy film set during WWII. One of the last films it showed before shuttering in 1981 was Ridley Scott’s Alien. The theatre screened Ghostbusters to a small group, but officially opened to the public on Saturday, June 21, 2025 with a showing of the 1978 musical romantic comedy
Grease. While that screening has officially sold out, more special events are on the horizon for our beautifully restored theatre The state-of-the-art facility will now have live stage shows in addition to its special screenings of films!
Below are several photos of the original Cavern Theatre location before, during, and after its construction, a few photos of the 1951 location over the years, and a few newspaper clippings from across the decades. The first photo, from 1890, shows The Hagerman Hotel circled in red. It was taken looking south from the same location as the 1951 Cavern Theatre, from the tower at the home of Fred Piontkowsky, Carlsbad's first land surveyor. The Trinity Hotel can be seen to the right of the hotel, and in the foreground to the left, the small house seen there is n
Meet the adorable pets of our City of Carlsbad employees!
Name: Rosie “Rosie-Posie”
Pawrent(s): Matt & Amee Fletcher
She is also a service dog and her favorite activities are traveling in the car with mom and dad and getting wet in any water she can manage to jump into.
al, her
hout it.
Nam They h
Name: Frederickson Von Yeti
Pawrent: Shannon Hammett
Frederickson thrives in the cold environment at the museum, which keeps the artifacts safe. His favorite snacks include ice cream and popsicles, but he isn't opposed to a nice warm bowl of ramen every now and then
JULY EMPLOYEE POLLS JULY
How do you usually celebrate the 4th of July?
Which summer activity would you rather do?
How long have you worked for the City of Carlsbad?
What’s your favorite way to unwind after work?
Which hobby would you like to try if you had more free time?
If Carlsbad were a movie genre, what would it be?
If you were a Carlsbad landmark, which one would you be?
What’s your preferred way to take a break at work?
Are you going to the beach for the fireworks this year?
MUNICIPAL COURT
DEPARTMENT SPOTLIGHT
The Carlsbad Municipal Court handles a wide range of cases within the city limits These include criminal petty misdemeanors, traffic violations, code enforcement issues, animalrelated offenses, and juvenile cases. While the courtroom might seem distant from daily life for many residents, it plays a crucial role in maintaining fairness and accountability in our community.
Each morning, operations begin promptly at 7:00 a m The Assistant Court Administrator starts the day by preparing paperwork for individuals who were recently arrested By 7:30 a.m., the clerks have opened the front office and organized all necessary documents. By 8:00 a.m., the judge begins court, with attendance ranging anywhere from 15 to more than 40 individuals. Throughout the morning, the clerks distribute judgments, provide information, file documents, and answer incoming calls. The afternoons are just as busy, with the team assisting walk-in visitors, handling pre-trials and trials, participating in Google Meets, and continuing the essential task of filing and case management
The court is staffed by a dedicated team. The Judge presides over all cases, ensures procedures are followed, and determines case outcomes. The Court Administrator assists the judge while managing the overall operations of the court. The Assistant Court Administrator oversees the front office, handles served warrants, and helps train new clerks Court Clerk I works on trials involving individuals representing themselves, while Court Clerk II manages trials and pre-trials involving attorneys. Both clerks file documents, organize records, and help maintain the court’s calendar. The Bailiff ensures the safety of everyone in the building by screening visitors at the entrance and monitoring activity within the courtroom.
The Municipal Court works closely with the Carlsbad Police Department to ensure the accuracy of citations and criminal complaints Officers frequently visit the court to correct reports, attend hearings, and communicate any scheduling changes due to training or leave. One common misunderstanding is that appearing in court automatically results in jail time. This is not true. Some violations are subject to a penalty assessment, which is a set fine that cannot be adjusted. In those cases, individuals can pay their fine without having to appear before a judge
The court is also preparing for several improvements. Staff are transitioning to a new case management system through Tyler Technologies, which will streamline processes and increase efficiency. A new filing system has been introduced to make records more accessible. Addit-
-ional safety measures, including a walk-through metal detector, are also in place to keep the building secure.
The court staff interacts with all members of the community, including those facing significant challenges. One ongoing difficulty is working with individuals experiencing homelessness. Without reliable contact information, it can be hard to reach them about their court dates or citations. Unfortunately, this often means a case cannot be resolved until the person is arrested again.
Even with those challenges, the Municipal Court remains committed to fairness and equity Staff regularly work with individuals who are unable to attend court as scheduled, offering flexibility and additional time when appropriate.
When appearing in court, it is important to dress appropriately and bring any supporting documents such as proof of insurance, registration, or a valid driver’s license These documents can help clarify issues quickly and allow the judge to make an informed decision
The court also supports several programs that offer alternatives to traditional sentencing. For individuals who cannot afford to pay fines, community service is an option. The court works with the Alternative Sentencing Unit to set up house arrest and SCRAM monitoring so individuals can continue working while still fulfilling their obligations Juvenile offenders may be referred to Teen Court, which offers a second chance by allowing them to complete an alternative program. If completed successfully, their citation may be dismissed. The court is also involved with the DWI Program, which supports activities aimed at reducing impaired driving across the community.
Beyond their duties, the court team shares a strong sense of teamwork Staff members support one another and approach each day with a positive, professional attitude This collaboration ensures that every citizen who comes through the Municipal Court is treated with respect, fairness, and a genuine willingness to help.
Sincerely,
ImyParraz Assistant Court Administrator
Tue. July 1st:
JULY EVENTS AND DATES
For more information regarding any of these events or others please visit the official City Events Calander.
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
Carlsbad Public Library Game Time
Carlsbad Public Library Stitcher’s
Anonymous
SENMC Blood Drive
Wed. July 2nd:
Depsicable Me 4 - FREE Summer Kids
Series at La Cueva 6 Theatre
Library Program at the Beach Gazebo
Carlsbad Public Library LEGO Time
Thurs. July 3rd:
Carlsbad Public Library Baby Time
Carlsbad Public Library Story Time
Carlsbad Public Library Teen Time
Fri. July 4th:
City of Carlsbad Offices Closed
July 4 Parade th
Red, White & Blue on the River: 2025
Carlsbad Fourth of July Celebration
Fri. July 4th Continued:
Karaoke/Open Mic @ Guadalupe
Brewing Company
Sat. July 5th:
Carlsbad Farmers & Makers Market
GLOW Mini Golf Tournament
3rd Annual Pickleball Tournament by All
Sports Best Men’s and Women’s
Doubles
Sun. July 6th:
3rd Annual Pickleball Tournament by All
Sports Best Men’s and Women’s
Doubles
Zoo Camp Living Desert Zoo and
Gardens State Park
Painting My Own Backlight Poster
Mon. July 7th:
Painting My Own Backlight Poster
Tue. July 8th:
SRP Special Program: Carlsbad Soil &
Water Conservation District
Tue. July 8th Continued:
SRP Special Program by New Mexico
Office of Archaeological Studies
Trivia Night at Milton’s Brewing
Wed. July 9th:
Library Program at the Beach Gazebo
Carlsbad Public Library LEGO Time
SENMC Green Thumb 101: Getting
Started With Gardening
Thurs. July 10th:
Carlsbad Public Library Baby Time
Carlsbad Public Library Story Time
Carlsbad Public Library Tween Time
Carlsbad Public Library Fiction Writing
Workshop with Zane Biebelle
Painting My Own Backlight Poster
Fri. July 11th:
Andy Mason Music program at the Carlsbad Public Library
Mummers Curtain Chaos at the Carlsbad
Public Library
United Way STUFF THE BUS
Fri. July 11th Continued:
Painting My Own Backlight Poster
Karaoke/Open Mic @ Guadalupe
Brewing Company
Sat. July 12th:
Carlsbad Farmers & Makers Market
Missoula Children's Theater Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
Caffeine & Cultivate: seed and sprouts
swap at the Carlsbad Public Library
Tattoo presentation at the Carlsbad
Public Library
United Way STUFF THE BUS
Sun. July 13th:
United Way STUFF THE BUS
Mon. July 14th:
Zoo Camp Living Desert Zoo and
Gardens State Park
Tue. July 15th:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
Carlsbad Public Library Game Time
Carlsbad Public Library Stitcher’s
Anonymous
Tue. July 15th Continued:
Battle of the Badges Blood Drive
Zoo Camp Living Desert Zoo and
Gardens State Park
Wed. July 16th:
Carlsbad Public Library LEGO Time
Brews & Books at Milton’s Brewing
SENMC Green Thumb 101: Getting
Started With Gardening
Thurs. July 17th:
Carlsbad Public Library Baby Time
Carlsbad Public Library Story Time
Poetry writing workshop 2 with Dr. Fry
at Carlsbad Public Library
Fri. July 18th:
Story Time with Carlsbad Fire
Department at the Carlsbad Public
Library
Mummers Curtain Chaos at the Carlsbad
Public Library
Carlsbad Public Library Teens After
Hours Comic Club
Fri. July 18th Continued:
Karaoke/Open Mic @ Guadalupe Brewing Company
The Elves Shoemaker, presented by Carlsbad Community Theatre
Sat. July 19th:
Carlsbad Public Library STEM Club
Carlsbad Farmers & Makers Market
Block and Gelli Printing with Jean Prominski
The Elves Shoemaker, presented by Carlsbad Community Theatre
Sun. July 20th:
The Elves Shoemaker, presented by Carlsbad Community Theatre
Mon. July 21st:
City of Carlsbad Utility Bills Due Date
Tue. July 22nd:
SRP Special Program: Carlsbad Gem & Mineral Society
Pint-Sized Polka program at the Carlsbad Public Library
Trivia Night at Milton’s Brewing
Wed. July 23rd:
Carlsbad Public Library LEGO Time
Thurs. July 24th:
Miguel Briones Macho not Machismo
(English Version) at the Carlsbad Public Library
Miguel Briones Macho not Machismo
(Spanish Version) at the Carlsbad Public Library
Summer's End Adult Bad Art Night at the Carlsbad Public Library
Fri. July 25th:
Story Time at the Living Desert Zoo
Summer Reading Program: summer's
end ice cream social at the Carlsbad Public Library
Mummers Curtain Chaos at the Carlsbad Public Library
Karaoke/Open Mic @ Guadalupe
Mountain Brewing Company
The Elves Shoemaker, presented by Carlsbad Community Theatre
Sat. July 26th:
Caffeine & Cultivate: seed and sprouts
swap at the Carlsbad Public Library
Carlsbad Farmers & Makers Market
The Elves Shoemaker, presented by Carlsbad Community Theatre
Sun. July 27th:
The Elves Shoemaker, presented by Carlsbad Community Theatre
Wed. July 30th:
Carlsbad Public Library LEGO Time
Thurs. July 31st:
Last Business Day of the Month to Pay City of Carlsbad Utility Bills
For more information regarding any of these events or others please visit the official City Events Calander.
RELEASE – NOTICE OF CONSTRUCTION
J&H Services Inc. will begin sewer work along West Derrick Road between Production Lane and US 62/180 in Carlsbad, New Mexico, on April 21, 2025, and last approximately two months. To aid in the construction and increase safety during the work, W Derrick Road will be closed for westbound traffic with a detour. The only access will be for local businesses on Derrick.
Traffic control devices will be installed in this area. The general public is asked to remain clear of the construction area, and drivers who commute on this portion of the City are asked to please drive slowly and follow any detour signs in the area. Your Cooperation and observance of all construction signs will be greatly appreciated to help ensure the safety of the public and the construction crews.
The City of Carlsbad and J&H Services Inc. are committed to the safety of the traveling public and would like to thank you for your patience and assistance.
If you have any questions regarding this project, please contact:
J&H Services Inc: 505-896-9428 City of Carlsbad: 575-885-6313
LAKE CARLSBAD GOLF COURSE
We appreciate the community’s patience as we work to improve the Lake Carlsbad Golf Course so that it is enjoyable for everyone.
Here’s the latest timeline:
The Driving Range is OPEN.
The Championship Course of the golf course is OPEN. Construction on the Par 3 course will be complete by August 1, 2025.
In the meantime, the miniature golf course remains open and ready for play. We encourage golfers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy this option 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
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
Richard 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
