Hitting Home is a series that chronicles the impact of COVID-19 on five New Mexico towns: Shiprock, Gallup, Las Vegas, Carlsbad and Anthony. All are steeped in history, struggle, and now, perhaps, a battle for their lives. Over the course of a year, we’ll return to these towns again and again, producing multimedia portraits that capture these unprecedented times. Navajos, Hispanics, roustabouts, ranchers, business owners and immigrants are among the many people we’ll bring to life in stories, photos, videos and audio files, read aloud in Diné, Spanish and English. The project was made possible by the generosity of community residents, who welcomed us into their lives.
Carlsbad
The wind cries money
With ample wind and sun, Carlsbad stands to be at the epicenter of renewable energy for the Southwest. But can the state diversify from oil and gas dependence before it’s too late?
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Deep red and feeling blue
Nine months into the pandemic, Carlsbad residents are divided, defiant and in search of a silver lining.
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Busted
The Carlsbad region was poised to send $3 billion to New Mexico coffers, thanks to one of the biggest oil booms in history. Then came COVID.
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Lunch time at Guadalupe Mountain Brewing Company, in Carlsbad, shortly before a November emergency health order ended indoor dining statewide. To create social distance, fewer tables were available. Michael Benanav for Searchlight New Mexico. 
From left: Daniel, Vince and another oil worker who declined to give his name share beers at a man camp in Carlsbad.