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Happy Easter, Carlsbad! As we welcome the spring season, we’re excited to share a message from the Mayor highlighting the continued progress along our beautiful Pecos River. These updates will help make the river an even better place for families, visitors, and residents to enjoy all season long.

This month’s newsletter also features a spotlight on the Carlsbad Police Department, which will be hosting Coffee with a Cop. April is full of activities for all ages. We hope you take advantage of everything happening in our community and enjoy all that this vibrant season has to offer!

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Dear Neighbors & Friends:

A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

Happy Easter, Carlsbad! There is so much happening in our community.

We are thrilled to announce that the long-awaited Cascades Wellness and Recreation Center is now open at 405 Cascades Avenue for ages 40 and up For more information, to see upcoming activities, or to become a member, call 575-885-6487. A heartfelt thank you goes to God’s Light in the Darkness Foundation, the TLC Foundation, our dedicated city staff, city crews, and everyone who helped bring this space to life. We are excited to welcome you to a space that offers activities for everyone, including crafts, indoor pickleball, weightlifting, a pool room, puzzle room, library, and much more. We hope this center becomes a place where our community can gather, stay active, and enjoy time together.

With summer approaching, attention is also turning to the Pecos River and Lake Carlsbad. City employees and contractors continue clearing desiccated vegetation, making substantial progress. The City is expanding the beach area to create more swim space and repairing docks and other infrastructure The dam gates are scheduled to close on May 1, and after this date, it may take several weeks for the river to fully refill. As part of these improvements, a floating bridge is being installed near Greene Street Bridge Once open, it will provide a safe path for pedestrians, allowing everyone to continue walking without crossing the heavily trafficked bridge.

Spring also brought the excitement of another successful Gus Macker event. Although this year ’ s tournament began later than usual due to unforeseen challenges, we are proud that Carlsbad Gus Macker is now officially a 501(c)(3) organization, ensuring that all funds raised will support local nonprofits. We want to recognize the Board of Directors, Richard Carrasco, Jaime Aguilera, Anthony Alanzo, and Renee Madrid, for their leadership and dedication in

organizing another outstanding tournament. I also want to thank city staff and public safety for supporting the event’s infrastructure and safety, helping make it a success for the entire community.

The City of Carlsbad is now accepting applications for seasonal summer positions. These opportunities include Seasonal Riverwalk Attendants, Seasonal Laborers for parks, golf courses, and the sports complex, and Facility Maintenance positions. These roles run from approximately Memorial Day through Labor Day and provide residents a chance to gain valuable experience while contributing to the community.

In addition, the City is seeking applicants for the Municipal Beach and Water Park. Positions include Water Park Attendants, Lifeguards, and Lead Lifeguards, all running from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Lifeguard positions require completion of the American Red Cross Water Park and Waterfront Lifeguarding courses, along with CPR and First Aid training within 30 days of hire. These seasonal positions offer competitive pay and the opportunity to help ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for everyone visiting the water park Applications will be accepted until positions are filled. For more information, visit www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com or call the Human Resources Department at 575-887-1191

We look forward to welcoming you to the new recreation center, seeing you enjoy the river and beach improvements, participating in community events, and making the most of everything Carlsbad has to offer this spring and summer.

Sincerely,

CarlsbadMayorRickLopez

Email: mayor office@cityofcarlsbadnm com

Phone: (575) 887-1191

What’s your go-to coffee order to start the day?

If you had a free day with no responsibilities, what would you choose?

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If you suddenly became invisible for a day, what would you do first?

When starting a new task, you usually…

Which imaginary job would secretly suit you best?

DEPARTMENT SPOTLIGHT

CARLSBAD POLICE DEPARTMENT

At the Carlsbad Police Department, our mission goes beyond responding to calls, we are committed to building strong relationships, fostering trust, and working side by side with our community to keep Carlsbad safe and thriving.

Over the past several months, our officers and professional staff have continued to demonstrate exceptional dedication across every division. From dispatchers answering over 5,000 calls in February alone with nearly all calls answered within seconds, to patrol officers handling more than 2,600 calls for service in a single month, our team remains focused on delivering responsive, professional service when our community needs it most.

Our Community Services Division has also remained actively engaged, working closely with schools, families, and local organizations. School Resource Officers have participated in student programs, safety drills, and educational events, while officers continue to support initiatives like Teen Court and community

presentations. These efforts reflect our belief that prevention, education, and visibility are just as important as enforcement.

In addition, our department continues to invest in training, technology, and recruitment to ensure we are prepared for the future. The implementation of the Tyler Enterprise Records System and ongoing officer and dispatcher training programs are just a few examples of how we are improving efficiency and strengthening our service delivery.

While these numbers and initiatives are important, what matters most is the connection we build with the people we serve. One of the best ways we do that is through community engagement events like “Coffee with a Cop.”

We invite you to join us for our next Coffee with a Cop on April 28, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. at Blue House Bakery and Café. This event is an opportunity for residents to meet officers in a relaxed, informal setting, no agendas, no speeches, just conversation. It’s a chance to ask questions, share concerns, learn more about what we do, or simply get to know the men and women behind the badge. Furthermore, we are excited to host City of Carlsbad Mayor Rick Lopez as our special guest.

Events like Coffee with a Cop are designed to break down barriers and strengthen relationships. We know that trust is built through everyday interactions, and by sitting down together over a cup of coffee, we can have meaningful conversations that help us better understand and serve our community.

At the Carlsbad Police Department, we are proud of the work we do, but even more proud to be part of a community that supports and partners with us. We look forward to continuing to serve you and to seeing you on April 28.

Stay safe, and thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

ChiefJessieRodriguez

Carlsbad Police Department

Pets of the Month

of our Cit

Name: Teddy, Hotdog, & Bear (Left to right)

Pawrent: Donna Garza

They like to run around the yard and then be cuddled

Name: Pepe (Left) & Lala (Right)

Pawrent: Priscilla Fuentes

They both enjoy the simple things: car rides, treats, and naps!

Name: Dusty B Backues

Pawrent: Kristina Torres

He likes to drink coffee as much as his momma does!

Name: Bella

Pawrent: Aiden Garcia

She likes to throw fits if you tell her no. She will throw mints off the counter at you. Even with her attitude, she is the sweetest "little" thing.

APRIL EVENTS AND DATES

For more information regarding any of these events or others please visit the official City Events Calander.

Wed. April 1st:

Carlsbad Public Library

LEGO Time

Fri. April 3rd

City of Carlsbad

Facilities CLOSED for Good Friday

Mon. April 6th:

Southeastern New

Mexico Historical Society and Carlsbad Museum

Tues. April 7th:

Carlsbad Museum presents Carlsbad Student Art Show

Elementary Student Reception

Wed. April 8th:

Carlsbad Public Library

Preschool Storytime

Carlsbad Public Library

LEGO Time

Thurs. April 9th:

Carlsbad Public Library

Baby Storytime

Sat. April 11th:

Caffeine & Cultivation

STEM Club Hosted by Inspired by Science

Lifehouse Free

Screening and Panel

Discussion at the Cavern Theatre

Tues. April 14th:

Carlsbad Public Library

Toddler Storytime

SENMC Poetry and Jazz

Wed. April 15th:

Carlsbad Public Library

Preschool Storytime

Carlsbad Public Library

LEGO Storytime

Brews & Books at Milton’s Brewing

Thurs. April 16th:

Carlsbad Public Library

Baby Storytime

Inspired by Science: Ozobot Club

Tues. April 21st:

Carlsbad Public Library

Toddler Storytime

Wed. April 22nd:

Carlsbad Public Library

Storytime

Carlsbad Public Library

LEGO Time

Thurs. April 23rd:

Carlsbad Public Library

LEGO Time

Thurs. April 23rd:

Carlsbad Public Library

LEGO Time

Free Shred Days

Fri. April 24th:

Storytime at the Living Desert Zoo

Jam Session at Cascades

Recreation Center & Wellness Center Free Shred Days

Sat April 25th:

Touch-A-Truck

Mayor’s Mini Golf

Tournament

Household Hazardous

Waste Day

Tues. April 28th:

Carlsbad Public Library

Toddler Storytime

Coffee with a Cop at Bluehouse Bakery

SENMC Career Center

Grand Opening

Wed. April 29th:

Carlsbad Public Library

Preschool Storytime

Carlsbad Public Library

LEGO Time

Wed. April 29th

Continued:

Carlsbad Museum presents Carlsbad Student Art Show

Secondary Student

Reception

Thurs. April 30th:

Carlsbad Public Library

Baby Storytime

Carlsbad Public Library

LEGO Time

SENMC Career Center: Cover Letter/Resume Workshop

For more information regarding any of these events or others please visit the official City Events Calander.

See page 33 for answer key.

DOWN:

A place many people attend services on Easter

A flower commonly associated with Easter and renewal

AWhat you carry to collect Easter eggs

A snack often left out for the Easter Bunny

Blooming plants that represent the arrival of spring

Sweet treats often found inside Easter eggs

A fun outdoor activity families enjoy during Easter weekend

A baby bird that symbolizes new life during Easter

The day of the week Easter is celebrated

Soft colors commonly seen in Easter decorations

A popular sweet treat given on Easter

A fun activity where kids search for hidden eggs filled with treats

The season when Easter is usually celebrated

NOTICE OF CONSTRUCTION – Constructors Inc.

Constructors, Inc. continues work on the Carlsbad Middle School Project along Old Cavern Hwy.

The northbound lane on Old Cavern Hwy will remain closed for approximately the next six weeks. The closure will only be in effect during working hours, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., to maintain a safety barrier for crews working on sidewalk installation.

Southbound traffic will remain open, but motorists are advised to use caution in the area and expect minor delays. Drivers are encouraged to follow all posted signage and be aware of construction personnel and equipment.

Traffic control devices will be in place to guide motorists and help protect both workers and the traveling public. Work will take place daily from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., weather permitting.

Thank you for your patience and cooperation. For any questions, please call 575-885-8838.