Local Stories

Hernias continue to represent one of the most prevalent medical conditions in the United States, affecting an estimated five million Americans living with the condition. Hernia repair is one of the most frequently performed surgeries nationwide. A hernia occurs when tissue or an organ pushes past muscle and pops out, creating a bulge. Hernias usually happen in the abdominal area or groin. The bulge can appear when a person’s body is in a certain position or when they’re perfo

By Sarah Jones, Library Director, Carlsbad Public Library Kindness is one of the simplest—and most powerful—themes we can explore through reading. Whether it’s a quiet act of compassion, a courageous choice to stand up for others, or a reminder to be gentle with ourselves, books help us see kindness in action and inspire us to carry it into our daily lives. At the Carlsbad Public Library, our catalog is filled with titles that highlight empathy, inclusion, and the impact of s

By Don Eskins They didn’t get the win they were looking for in Lovington on Tuesday afternoon, August 18, but they didn’t get a loss either. What the Carlsbad Cavegirl soccer team did get was a 3-3 tie and a good start on the 2026 season. “After so much practicing during the off-season and this summer, it was really great to finally get to watch these girls compete in a match that had some meaning,” said Cavegirl head coach Misty Long. “The most important thing about our girl

By Don Eskins The Santa Teresa Desert Warriors spoiled the Carlsbad Cavemen soccer team’s 2026 season opener in Santa Teresa on Monday, August 17. The Warriors, 18-4 in 2025, scored one goal in the first half and two more in the second to close out CHS’s hopes for a victory, 3-0. (MaxPreps stats) However, first-year head coach Aaron Babcock, who inherited a team that posted a 3-15 record in 2025, remained optimistic about the future of his charges. “It was a better game than

Carlsbad SBDC Provides Business Counseling, Training, and Technical Assistance Starting and growing a business can be challenging, but entrepreneurs in Eddy County do not have to navigate the journey alone. The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Carlsbad provides confidential business counseling, training opportunities, and technical assistance to help aspiring and established business owners make informed decisions and build stronger businesses. Hosted at Southeast

By Misty Cryer When people ask what there is to do in Carlsbad, my thoughts instantly jump to the parks. There are several in and around Carlsbad that offer days of enjoyment for people of all ages and walks of life. I do have a few favorites to recommend. Hiking at McKittrick Canyon during the fall is one of my favorite experiences. While the canyon is part of Guadalupe Mountains National Park in West Texas, it does expand into Eddy County. The place is so beautiful, especia

By Misty Cryer At the Champagne Brunch en Blanc, which is an event hosted by the Carlsbad branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) to celebrate women’s equality, an outstanding Carlsbad woman was recognized. “We as a branch are especially proud to recognize Mary Sandford, whose dedication to AAUW Carlsbad spans an incredible 50 years,” said Angie Barrios-Testa, Co-President of the branch. “Mary has served our branch in countless leadership roles, while al

By Don Eskins The Carlsbad Cavemen and Artesia Bulldogs, on a collision course since the end of the 2025 prep gridiron season, will clash under the Friday Night Lights of the Bulldog Bowl on August 21 in the City of Champions. The battle, historically the second-oldest prep football game in the Land of Enchantment, better known as the Eddy County War, will serve as both teams’ 2026 season opener. Oddsmakers, once again, are making the host Bulldogs a heavy favorite. The Dogs