Attractive nuisance. What originally caused consternation among Eddy County folks drilling for water – water from Artesian springs – turned out to be among life’s most attractive nuisances.

Oil. Water drilling was continually paused because that darn black oil kept seeping into wells. The persistence of the unwelcomed oil was, thank goodness, matched only by greater persistence by men and women determined to drill specifically for oil and later oil and gas.

This weekend’s celebration of the 100 years since Illinois #3 gushed and oil shot straight into the air like a black rocket is testament to hope, courage, risk, and the determination not to give up in the face of adversity.

It’s also a time to reflect on the philanthropy that has flowed from business profits back into Artesia to make it darn close to what former President Ronald Reagan described as a shining city on a hill, a phrase he used to be emblematic of his political career.

Actually, the phrase was originally used in 1630 by John Winthrop in a sermon on his vision of America, “we shall be as a city upon a hill.” Winthrop was a Puritan and among the first colonists from England. He was governor for many years of the Massachusetts Bay Colony.

Artesia is not hill country but we have oil and the discovery of it here was the boom to great economic growth. Several of our local residents have been more than willing to spread their wealth from oil and gas to make Artesia a shining city.

No better example of the history of oil and Artesia exists than the bronze statue at the center of town – “The Derrick Floor.” It tells our story and is the result of men and women who wanted to honor our history in dramatic and artistic fashion.

It is possible to take for granted all the wonderful aspects of life in Artesia, an almost idyllic, Andy of Mayberry town. The benefits of living and working here are the result of not only the Illinois #3 discovery but also of the generosity of our citizens driven to make this town special.

May the next 100 years be even more fruitful. Thank you, Artesia.

ARTESIA — Aspiring young actors are invited to audition next month for the upcoming Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT) production of “Jack and the Beanstalk.”

The audition will be held from 10 a.m. – noon Monday, June 17, at the Ocotillo Performing Arts Center and is open to students in grades 1-12. No advance preparation is necessary.

Those planning to audition are asked to arrive at 9:30 a.m. and be prepared to stay for the full two hours. Some cast members will be asked to stay for rehearsal immediately following the audition. Assistant directors will also be cast to aid in rehearsals throughout the week and take on essential backstage responsibilities.

The cost to audition is $30 per student, and space is available for up to 60 students.

For more information, call 575-746-4212 or visit www. artesiaartscouncil.com.

Artesia Clean & Beautiful will be hosting its 17th Annual eWaste Collection event June 21-22 at the food court at the Eddy County Fairgrounds.

We will be accepting all of your office-related equipment, fax machine, copiers, typewriters, CPUs, consumer electronics including DVD and VCR players and video game consoles, radios, telephones and cell phones, server and telecom equipment, cameras, and stereo equipment. There will be a charge of $5 for the big CRT monitors. Home appliances will not be accepted.

If you are not comfortable with your hard drive leaving your hands, take it out and take out all of those frustrations on it with a sledgehammer. Natural Evolution, which is the company that will be taking the eWaste is insured and bonded and assures us that all hard drives will be erased by military standards. None of this electronic waste will be rebuilt; it will all be torn down into various piles of metals and plastics.

Along with the eWaste Collection, CARC Document Destruction will also be there from 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Friday accepting up to 100 pounds of documents that you would like to have destroyed. This is for residential only. Remember, this beats sitting there for hours feeding your shredder one page at a time. It’s a great way to get rid of all of those old tax forms and old bills. If you would like a certificate of destruction, they can provide that for you.

Remember, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Friday, June 21, and 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, June 22. CARC will only be there on Friday from 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., so remember to bring your documents then.

As always, do your part to help keep Artesia… Clean and Beautiful. It really does take the entire community to be involved. For more information on any of our programs, please contact our office at 575-748-3192 or come by 422 W. Main St. Follow us on Facebook at Artesia Clean & Beautiful.

(EDITOR’S NOTE: Linda Stevens is the director of Artesia Clean & Beautiful. Contact her at 575-7483192.)

Updates on construction projects around Artesia were the highlight of the June 11 Artesia City Council meeting. Infrastructure Director Byron Landfair reported work on the previously reported second Mc Donald’s location in front of Wal Mart is getting started. Equipment for the Splash Pad at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Complex has arrived, and crews are hopefully targeting the Fourth of July for an opening. More likely, Landfair said, it will be later in July.

Bathrooms at the City of Champions Sports Complex at Jaycee Park are progressing, and the city also plans to award the bid for the 26th Street Reconstruction Project at the first council meeting in July, with construction starting in fall or early winter and running for 18 months.

During the budget and finance committee report, District 2 Councilor Jarrod Moreau reported the city received a grant from the Water Trust Board to be used for a new water well at the Bulldog tank west of town. The council later approved Resolution 1863 that verifies the city’s matching contribution of $108,785 for the Water Trust Board grant. The total project cost is $2.2 million, according to Landfair.

“We got a 90/10 split, which is not common,” said Moreau. “It’s typically a 60/40 split. So our match is $108,785, and we’re gonnna pick up $687,000.”

District 1 Councilor Raul Rodriguez gave a report on the Planning Committee meeting, which includes updates on developments throughout the community, including the NinjaCross system installation at the Artesia Aquatic Center, personnel at the aquatic center, summer recreation, and a list of condemned properties. He also noted people are appreciating the upgrades at the cemetery.

Mayor Pro Tem Jeff Youtsey reported on the Government Committee meeting, which inluded an update on an airport hangar agreement and fees and a possible replacement for the airplane that was removed from the Airplane Park on the east end of Eagle Draw.

Following a public hearing, the council approved the vacation of 50 feet of public right-of-way in the Charlie H. Smith Addition of Smith Avenue to the City of Artesia, County of Eddy, for a dedication circle and consolidation of Lots 1, 3, 5 and 7, Block 2; owners: Richard Leaton/ English Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, the City of Artesia, and Wesley Knowlton/Tiny Homes, LLC.

The council also approved Resolution 1864 for a budget adjustment and a lease transfer made between 2404 Parkland, LLC, to Robert M. and Pamela K. Eales, and the City of Artesia.

City Clerk Summer Valverde reported the final pricing results of the Gross Receipts Tax Bond Series 2024, with interest rates of 3.19% and 3.92% on the bonds.

As part of its consent agenda, the council granted permission for:

• a request for proposal for the provision of indigent attorney services to Saunders, Bruin, Coll & Worley, PA.

• an aviation grant agreement between the NMDOT-Aviation Division and the City of Artesia for a project tractor and attachments.

• the Fiscal Year 2025 LDWI Enforcement Allocation between the Eddy County DWI Program and the Artesia Police Department.

• the hiring of Jacob Lara, Finance and Administration Department PT Accounts Payable, at a pay rate of $2,425.15 per month and Kaden Zuniga, uncertified firefighter, $4,478.50 per month.

• the resignation of Scot Moter, IT administrator, effective June 7.

Resignation

• one fire employee to attend the Fire-Rescue International Conference in Dallas, Texas.

• one fire employee to attend the NMML Policy Committee Meeting in Albuquerque.

• one fire employee to attend Enhanced All-Hazards Incident Management training in College Station, Texas.

• one fire employee to attend Wilderness Emergency Medical Services training in Taos.

• one police employee to attend Visit Espanola Animal Services training in Espanola.

• one police employee to attend the NMML Policy and Resolution Committee Meetings in Albuquerque.

• one finance and administration employee to attend IIMC Online Professional Development Program classes.

• one finance and administration employee to attend the NMML Policy and Resolution Committee Meetings in Albuquerque.

Friday, June 14

• Dinner at the Artesia Country Club with keynote speaker Alex Epstein and guest speaker Hanson Yates; contact the Chamber of Commerce at 575-746-2744 for ticket information Saturday, June 15

• 9 a.m.: Oilfield Equipment Parade – Parade will start at Bulldog Bowl and proceed east on Main Street to Second Street

• 10 a.m. – noon: Derrick Floor Shenanigans – Come enjoy a variety of activities for all ages in Oil Patch Plaza at Sixth and Main streets

• 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.: Artesia Aquatic Center Need a break from the heat? Take a dip under the Illinois No. 3 water feature at the aquatic center, 711 Bowman Drive

• 5-7 p.m.: Oilfield Cook-Off – Watch as oilfield companies battle in Heritage Plaza for smoked supremacy, and get a taste of the action by purchasing your $10 ticket from the Chamber of Commerce, 575-746-2744

• 5-11 p.m.: Live Music and Food Trucks Have dinner from local food vendors while enjoying a full entertainment line-up in Heritage Plaza

• 6-8 p.m.: Oilfield Olympics – Working in the oil patch is a sport all its own; do you have what it takes? Watch the competition at Baish Veterans’ Park in front of City Hall or join in registration will be available at the event

HEAD START ENROLLMENT — Head Start is currently enrolling 3- and 4-year-olds for its 2024-25 program year. Children must turn 3 by Sept. 1. To schedule an enrollment appointment, call 575-748-1141. Parents or guardians will be asked to bring the child’s birth certificate and immunization records, verification of income (2023 tax return or SNAP), and a Medicaid or private insurance card. —————– ARTESIA HEALTHCARE AND REHAB OPEN HOUSE — Artesia Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center invites the public to an open house from 10:30 a.m. – noon Friday, June 14, at the Center, 1402 W. Gilchrist Ave. Learn about the services provided, tour the facility, meet the staff, and enjoy snacks and beverages in the rose garden. Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP to Helen at 575-308-2076. For more information, call 575-746-6006. —————– NORTH EDDY REPUBLICANS — The North Eddy County Republicans will meet at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 20, in the clubhouse at the Artesia Country Club. All are welcome. Need not be a member of the club to attend. The speaker has yet to be determined. —————– SPECIAL COMMISSION MEETING — The Eddy County Commission will hold a special meeting at 8:30 a.m. Friday, June 14, in Commission Chambers at the Eddy County Administration Complex, 101 W. Greene St., Carlsbad, for the purpose of canvassing the results of the June 4 Primary Election. —————– HOSPITAL BOARD — The Artesia Special Hospital District Board of Trustees will meet at 5:15 p.m. Monday, June 24, in Green Chile Room A at Artesia General Hospital for the purpose of conducting regular business and discussing finances and other matters in an open setting. —————– KIDS’ STORYTIME — Children ages 12 and under are invited to a Summer Reading Program adventure-themed StoryTime and Craft at 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 18, at the Artesia Public Library. For more information, call the library at 575-746-4252. —————– KIDS’ LEGO CHALLENGE — Children ages 12 and under are invited to drop in for a Summer Reading Program adventure-themed LEGO Challenge from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Friday, June 28, at the Artesia Public Library. For more information, call the library at 575746-4252. —————– KIDS’ STEM LAB — Children ages 12 and under are invited to drop in for a Summer Reading Program STEM Lab from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Wednesdays, June 19 and 26, at the Artesia Public Library. For more information, call the library at 575-746-4252. —————– KIDS’ MOVIE — Children ages 12 and under are invited to watch an adventure-themed movie at 11 a.m. Friday, June 21, at the Artesia Public Library. Popcorn will be served. For more information, call the library at 575-746-4252. —————– ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUPPETS — Children ages 12 and under are invited to a Summer Reading Program performance by Meghan and the Rocky Mountain Puppets at 2 p.m. Thursday, June 20, at the Artesia Center, 612 N. Eighth St. For more information, call the Artesia Public Library at 575-746-4252. —————– KIDS’ STORY CREATIONS — Children ages 12 and under are invited to a Summer Reading Program Story Creations event at 10 a.m. Tuesday, June 25, at the Artesia Public Library. Join Denise Gard and her amazing Border Collies, Joey and Kira, as they bring their Egyptian adventures to the library. For more information, call the library at 575-746-4252. —————– NEW MEXICO WILDLIFE — Children ages 12 and under are invited to learn about New Mexico wildlife with the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 27, at the Artesia Public Library. For more information, call the library at 575-746-4252. —————– TEEN CRAFT — Teens ages 13-17 are invited to create a Summer Reading Program themed craft at 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 18, at the Artesia Public Library. For more information, call the library at 575-746-4252. —————– TEEN GAMES — Teens ages 13-17 are invited to a Summer Reading Program games event at 1 p.m. Wednesdays, June 19 and 26, at the Artesia Public Library. Come play a variety of games, from life-sized Jenga to Bingo. For more information, call the library at 575-746-4252. —————– TEEN ART — Teens ages 13-17 are invited to complete a Summer Reading Program themed art project at 1 p.m. Thursdays, June 20 and 27, at the Artesia Public Library. For more information, call the library at 575746-4252. —————– TEEN IMPROV — Teens ages 13-17 are invited to a Summer Reading Program Teen Improv event at 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 25, at the Artesia Public Library. Denise Gard will work with teens on their improv skills. For more information, call the library at 575-746-4252. —————– MACARON MAKING FOR ADULTS — Adults ages 18 and up are invited to a Summer Reading Program macaron-making demonstration with Alison from Kith + Kin Roasting Co. at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 18, at the Artesia Public Library. For more information, call the library at 575-746-4252. —————– CRAFTING FOR ADULTS — Adults ages 18 and up are invited to a Summer Reading Program crafting event at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, June 20, at the Artesia Public Library. Sharon Wright with Stampin’ Up will demonstrate how to make unique cards. For more information, call the library at 575-746-4252. —————– YARN UNITED — Adults ages 18 and up are invited to Yarn United at noon Wednesday, June 26, at the Artesia Public Library. All skill levels are invited to crochet, knit or just untangle the yarn with other yarnsters. All forms of sewing and crafting welcome. For more information, call the library at 575-746-4252. —————– LUNCH BUNCH BOOK CLUB — Ages 18 and up are invited to the Lunch Bunch Book Club at noon Tuesday, June 25, at the Artesia Public Library. Denise Gard will join in a discussion of her book “Raven Woods Smoke Signals.” Copies are available for check-out at the library or via Libby. For more information, call the library at 575-746-4252. —————– LITERARY LOUNGE — Adults ages 18 and up are invited to Literary Lounge at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, June 27, at the Artesia Public Library. The June selection is “The Library of Lost & Found” by Phaedra Patrick. Copies are available for check-out at the library or via Libby. For more information, call the library at 575746-4252. —————– SUMMER READING FAMILY EVENT — A Summer Reading Program family event will be held at 5 p.m. Friday, June 28, at the Artesia Public Library. All ages are invited to participate in a Chalk Party. All sidewalks on the south side of the library will be decorated. Chalk will be provided. For more information, call the library at 575-746-4252.