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Juliana Halvorson, Davroc Sports Photography, & Luke Anthony + Respected contributors to make this issue possible.
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At Pioneer Bank, we take immense pride in our commitment to both our customers and community. Through our dedicated team of employees and passionate volunteers, we've been able to make a significant impact by giving back over $115,000 in donations and contributing more than 3,100 volunteer
hours in 2022 to support various community initiatives. We firmly believe that a strong community makes for a stronger bank, and we are honored to play an active role in nurturing and enriching the lives of those we serve. Together, we are building a brighter future for everyone. 3000 N. Main St. 306 N. Pennsylvania 2 St. Mary’s Place 575-624-5200 | www.pioneerbnk.com
The Return of a Roswell Icon: The Resurrection of the Rocket Slide
In the heart of Roswell, New Mexico, where the past and present intertwine with stories of extraterrestrial encounters, a beloved local treasure has returned to captivate both residents and visitors. The Roswell Rocket Slide, once a centerpiece of joy at Peppermint Park, has been resurrected, blending nostalgia with artistry in a way that only this unique city could inspire.
A Childhood Memory
Peppermint Park was once a bustling playground where children laughed and played under the New Mexico sun. Among the swings and slides, one attraction stood out—the Rocket Slide. This towering structure, designed to mimic a space-bound rocket, fired up the imaginations of countless children who dreamt of exploring the stars. However, as the years passed, the slide was removed due to safety concerns, leaving behind only memories and a sense of loss among those who grew up with it.
A Vision Brought to Life
The City of Roswell, recognizing the cultural and nostalgic significance of the Rocket Slide, sought to bring it back in a way that honored its legacy while ensuring safety for future generations. Enter Josh Berry, a local metal artist known for his creative ingenuity and passion for community projects. The city commissioned Berry to reimagine and rebuild the Rocket Slide as a visual icon for Roswell, blending its historical roots with a new artistic flair.
For months, Berry toiled away, carefully reconstructing the slide with a blend of modern materials and design elements that paid homage to the original. His goal was not just to create a replica, but to infuse it with a new life, making it an attraction that would draw in not just the locals who remembered it fondly, but also visitors eager to experience a piece of Roswell’s unique character.
A Festival Unveiling
The project culminated just in time for the 2024 UFO Festival, a yearly event that celebrates Roswell’s place in UFO lore. On Friday, July 5th, 2024, at 8:30 PM, the city gathered to witness the dedication of the Rocket Slide Resurrection at its new home at the Main Street Plaza on the corner of West 4th and North Main St. The crowd, a mix of longtime residents and festival-goers, watched in awe as the slide was lit up for the first time, casting a brilliant glow over Main Street.
The event was more than just an unveiling; it was a celebration of Roswell’s ability to cherish its past while embracing the future. The illuminated Rocket Slide, now a permanent fixture off Main Street, serves as a beacon of community spirit and artistic innovation.
A New Chapter
Since its resurrection, the Rocket Slide has become a cherished landmark once again. While it is no longer usable as a slide, it can be admired from its new permanent location, where a small fence surrounds it, allowing visitors to appreciate its artistic and nostalgic value. The slide is a symbol of Roswell’s enduring creativity and its commitment to preserving the unique aspects of its local culture.
For those who remember the original slide, the new Rocket Slide is a tangible connection to their childhood, reborn in a way that ensures its stories will continue to be told for years to come. For newcomers, it’s a fresh experience that adds a new layer to Roswell’s already rich tapestry of attractions. The Rocket Slide Resurrection is a testament to the city’s ability to adapt, innovate, and celebrate what makes Roswell truly out of this world.
To support Josh Berry and his artwork visit metalmarkeclectics.com
RESTORE RUIDOSO
Nestled in the Sierra Blanca mountain range, Ruidoso, New Mexico, is a hidden gem that offers visitors an enticing mix of rich history, breathtaking scenic views, and a warm, welcoming community spirit. Known for its year-round appeal, Ruidoso has long been a favored destination for those seeking an escape into nature, a glimpse into the past, or simply a place to relax and unwind.
Scenic Views and Outdoor Adventure
Ruidoso’s natural beauty is nothing short of spectacular. Surrounded by the towering pines of the Lincoln National Forest, the village offers stunning vistas at every turn.
Whether you’re gazing up at the snow-capped Sierra Blanca Peak or exploring the lush landscapes of Grindstone Lake, Ruidoso is a place where nature’s grandeur is always on full display.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Ruidoso is a paradise. The area is renowned for its hiking and biking trails, many of which offer sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. In the winter, Ski Apache, one of the southernmost ski resorts in the United States, becomes the focal point, drawing skiers and snowboarders from across the region. Year-round, Ruidoso’s mild climate makes it an ideal destination for golfing, fishing, and horseback riding.
A Resilient Community: “Ruidoso Strong”
Despite its beauty and appeal, Ruidoso has faced significant challenges in recent years. Wildfires and flooding have threatened not only the landscape but also the livelihoods and homes of those who call this village home. In 2022, the McBride Fire, one of the most devastating in recent memory, swept through the region, destroying hundreds of homes and causing extensive damage to the local environment. The fire was followed by severe flooding, which further compounded the difficulties faced by the community.
Just recently, Ruidoso once again found itself grappling with the forces of nature. Early in the year, a series of wildfires ignited by “man & lightning strikes” and exacerbated by dry conditions swept through parts of the village and surrounding areas. The fires caused significant damage, with several homes, businesses, and vast stretches of forestland burned. The community was forced to mobilize quickly, with firefighters and volunteers working tirelessly to contain the flames and protect lives and property.
Just as the village began to recover from these fires, an unusually heavy monsoon season brought severe flooding to the area. Torrential rains led to flash floods that washed out roads, damaged infrastructure, and caused additional strain on the already recovering landscape. The flooding was particularly devastating in areas already weakened by fire, leading to landslides and further erosion.
“The community’s warmth and hospitality are unmatched, making it clear that Ruidoso is not just a destination— it’s a place to call home, if only for a little while.”
Yet, in the face of these hardships, the people of Ruidoso have shown remarkable resilience. The phrase “Ruidoso Strong” has become a rallying cry, symbolizing the community’s determination to rebuild and recover. Local organizations, businesses, and residents have come together in an incredible display of unity, working tirelessly to restore what was lost and to ensure that Ruidoso remains a vibrant and welcoming destination for all. Efforts to rebuild have been swift and effective. Soon, Ruidoso will once again be a thriving community, with new businesses opening and familiar landmarks being restored. The village is eager to welcome back visitors, offering them not only the beauty and adventure they’ve come to expect but also a chance to be part of a community that has weathered the storm and emerging stronger than ever.
Our Role as Neighbors
As Ruidoso faced these overwhelming challenges, we, their neighbors in Roswell, knew we had to step up and help. When the fires ravaged parts of Ruidoso, we opened our doors, providing temporary housing, food, and essential supplies for those who had lost their homes or were forced to evacuate. Our community came together, ensuring that the displaced families had a safe place to stay and the resources they needed to begin the process of recovery.But our support didn’t stop there. We also organized financial drives and collected donations from across our city and beyond to provide muchneeded funds for Ruidoso’s ongoing recovery efforts.
Local businesses, charities, and everyday residents of Roswell banded together, contributing what they could to help Ruidoso get back on its feet. We understood that in times of crisis, it’s not just about the physical aid but also about standing in solidarity with our neighbors, offering hope and support when it’s needed most.
Welcoming Locals and Visitors Alike
Ruidoso’s story is one of resilience, beauty, and community. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, the village offers something for everyone. From its rich history and scenic views to its indomitable spirit in the face of adversity, Ruidoso is a place where the past and present come together in a celebration of life and the natural world.
As Ruidoso continues to rebuild and grow, it remains a beacon of hope and strength in the heart of New Mexico. The community’s warmth and hospitality are unmatched, making it clear that Ruidoso is not just a destination— it’s a place to call home, if only for a little while. So, whether you’re planning a holiday getaway or simply looking for a place to relax and recharge, Ruidoso, New Mexico, is ready to welcome you with open arms.
Keep Ruidoso in Prayer as we will do the same with continued community support.
Get Involved with the Chamber
Joining the Roswell Chamber will provide you instant access to our extensive network of nearly 500 members throughout Roswell and New Mexico. Your company, or organization, can begin utilizing broad marketing opportunities, connecting with key policy makers, enjoying discounted programs and events, and building your network of professionals. Check out full business, corporate and executive level membership benefits.
New Pickle Ball courts at The Adult Center. 807 N Missouri Ave, Roswell, NM 88201
T-Mobile kiosk at Sam’s Club. 4400 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201
Roswell, NM, has twice earned the prestigious title of an All-American City, first in 1979 and again in 2002. This recognition by the National Civic League honors communities that demonstrate innovation, inclusiveness, and civic engagement. For Roswell, these values are not just ideals; they are the fabric of our town’s identity. As we reflect on our past achievements, we look ahead with determination to once again earn this honor, showing the nation what it means to be a true All-American City.
A Legacy of Community Support and Resilience
Roswell’s journey to becoming an All-American City is steeped in a rich history of community support and resilience. From its early days, our town has been defined by the strength of its people and their commitment to one another. This spirit was evident when Roswell came together to support neighboring communities during the fires in Ruidoso, offering housing, supplies, and financial aid. It is this unwavering sense of responsibility to others that defines us and fuels our drive to be the best community we can be.
Small-Town Support: The Heartbeat of Roswell
The soul of Roswell lies in its small-town charm, where the connections between people are strong and the support for local businesses is unwavering. Establishments like The Hot Bev, our beloved energy café, serve as gathering places where residents come together to share ideas, make plans, and build the future of our town.
But it’s not just about the businesses. It’s the people— the families, the educators, the volunteers—who make Roswell a place where everyone feels at home. Whether we’re cheering on our high school teams or participating in local events, the people of Roswell are always there to support one another.
Excellence in Local Sports and Education
Roswell’s dedication to excellence is evident in its thriving sports and educational institutions. Our local schools, including Roswell High and Goddard High, have produced outstanding athletes who represent our community with pride. The New Mexico Military Insti tute (NMMI) is a cornerstone of our town, instilling values of discipline, leadership, and academic excellence in its cadets. Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell (ENMU-R) plays a critical role in offering higher education opportunities to our youth, ensuring they can pursue their dreams without leaving the community they love.
Keeping Talent in Roswell: Supporting the Future
As Roswell looks to the future, it’s essential that we retain the talented individuals who make our community vibrant. Our local magazine is committed to supporting students and young professionals, helping them build successful careers right here in Roswell. We believe that our town offers everything needed for a fulfilling life— strong community support, excellent education, and a high quality of life.
The Call to Action: Let’s Make History Together
Roswell, we’ve shown the nation twice that we have what it takes to be an All-American City. Now, it’s time to come together once again to earn this honor for a third time. Let’s continue to support our local businesses, cheer for our sports teams, invest in our schools, and nurture the talents of our young people. By working together, we can ensure that Roswell remains a place of pride, strength, and unity—a true All-American City.
The road ahead is filled with opportunities, and with your help, Roswell will once again make history. Let’s show the world what it means to be a community that cares, a community that supports, and a community that thrives. Together, we can achieve greatness. Together, we can bring the All-American City title back to Roswell.
The All-America City Award recognizes communities that leverage civic engagement, collaboration, inclusiveness and innovation to successfully address local issues.
Roswell (1979, 2002)
Allstate Insurance (575) 622-2282
3020 N Main St, Ste E Roswell, NM 88201
Church on the Move (575) 622-7011
901 W Brasher Rd Roswell, NM 88203
Freedom Foam (575) 602-3728 NM-265, Roswell, NM 88201
Roswell Bags Cornhole sales@roswellbags.com Roswell, NM 88203
The Paleta Bar Roswell (575) 622-4093
4504 N Main St suite H, Roswell, NM 88201
Papa Murphy’s Pizza (575) 622-4999
3116 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201
Main Street Roswell (575) 622-4093
105 W 3rd St Ste. 420, Roswell, NM 88201
Chile Challenge Park Phone: (575) 743-3942
Highway 187 Caballo, NM 87931
MTA Tire Factory (575) 623-20903020
N. Main St, Roswell, NM 88201
Majestic Radio (575) 622-6450
5206 W 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201
The Hot Bev (575) 914-2900
1100 North Virginia Ave, Roswell, NM 88203
Pioneer Bank Corporate Office (575) 624-5200
3000 N Main St Roswell, NM 88203
Roswell Appliance Outlet (575) 363-9236
600 S Main St Roswell, NM 88203
Agency 66 (575) 777.1935
3020 N. Main St, Roswell, NM 88201
Big R Stores (575) 363-1262
1310 S Main St Roswell, NM 88203
Albertsons Market (575) 623-6100
900 W 2nd St Roswell, NM 88201
Albertsons Market (575) 623-6100
1110 S Main St
Roswell, NM 88203
MainStreet Roswell (575) 914-8017
105 W 3rd St Ste. 420 Roswell, NM 88201
McDonald’s (575) 622-4752
720 N Main St
Roswell, NM 88201
United Way of Chaves County (575) 622-4150
400 N Pennsylvania Ave
Roswell, NM 88201
Chaves County Clerk (575) 622-2721
1 St Mary’s Pl, Roswell, NM 88203
Best Western El Rancho Palacio (575) 622-2721
2205 N Main St
Roswell, NM 88201
Roswell Inn (575) 623-6050
2101 N Main St
Roswell, NM 88201
Baymont by Wyndham Roswell (575) 623-6050
2300 N Main St
Roswell, NM 88201
Roswell Appliance Outlet (575) 363-9236
600 S. Main St
Roswell, NM 88203
Lewis Truck & 4x4 (575) 624-0824
4500 W 2nd St
Roswell, NM 88201
Victory Outreach of Roswell, NM (575) 363-6008
2529 W Alameda St
Roswell, NM 88203
Roswell Chamber (575) 623-5695
131 W 2nd S
Roswell, NM 88201
Westlake Ace Hardware (575) 624-0550
2810 N Main St
Roswell, NM 88201
Moon Man Printing (505) 974-1125
305 N Main St
Roswell, NM 88201
Ancients of Days (575) 623-2222
127 N Main St
Roswell, NM 88203
Roswell Invaders (575) 838-2667
1000 E Poe St
Roswell, NM 88203
Jet Auto Glass (575) 627-6839
816 S Main St
Roswell, NM 88203
Cuts & Cues (505) 414-4508
901 W 2nd St
Roswell, NM 88203
The Holy Waters LLC (505) 414-4508
3020 N Main Ste B
Roswell, NM 88201
SCP Security (575) 910-2823
Roswell, NM 88201
Hippy Chicks (575) 627-3868
802 S. Main Street
Roswell, NM 88203
A SWEAT EQUITY
s summer approached, many individuals set their sights on achieving their fitness goals. Balancing workouts at home with gym sessions proved to be a practical and effective approach for maintaining a summer body, especially when schedules were packed.
Week 1: Starting at Home
The journey often begins with a commitment to a home workout routine. Transforming a living space into a mini gym, one can start with simple bodyweight exercises such as push-ups, squats, planks, and lunges. Initial sessions might last around 30 minutes, gradually increasing in intensity as strength and endurance build.
Mornings can be challenging, with the comfort of the bed and the heat of summer testing one’s resolve. Staying motivated might involve setting up a playlist of energetic music or investing in small pieces of equipment like resistance bands and dumbbells. Each small investment in equipment feels like a tangible step towards the goal.
Week 4: Embracing the Gym
With progress made at home, it’s beneficial to complement this routine with gym workouts. Joining a fitness center offers access to diverse equipment and classes, enhancing the workout experience. Initially, the gym environment can be overwhelming, but it becomes more manageable with time and familiarity.
A balanced gym routine might include 20 minutes of cardio, such as running on a treadmill, followed by targeted weightlifting sessions. Focusing on different muscle groups each day, and incorporating a mix of upper body, lower body, and core exercises, can optimize results. Regular gym visits provide new opportunities to challenge oneself and break through fitness plateaus.
Week 8: Achieving Balance
As summer transitions into fall, finding a balance between home and gym workouts becomes crucial. A typical schedule might involve working out at home three days a week and going to the gym twice. Weekends can be reserved for active recovery—activities like long walks, yoga, or biking help maintain engagement and prevent burnout.
Nutrition also plays a vital role during this transition. Making small, sustainable dietary changes, such as opting for fresh fruits instead of sugary snacks, choosing lean proteins, and staying hydrated, supports overall fitness goals and complements physical efforts.
The Reward
By the end of summer and into fall, the results of this dedicated approach become evident. Improved energy levels, increased confidence, and a sense of accomplishment reflect the effort invested. Balancing home workouts with gym sessions proves to be an effective strategy, leading not only to physical changes but also to a more fulfilling fitness journey.
This journey demonstrates the value of sweat equity the dedication and effort put into maintaining a fitness routine. Combining home and gym workouts, along with mindful nutrition and recovery, helps achieve lasting results and sets the foundation for continued health and well-being as the seasons change.
