Welcome to Hobbs, New Mexico, a hidden gem in the Land of Enchantment that is quickly capturing the hearts of those who discover it. Picture a community where the spirit of growth and progress collides harmoniously with the timeless charm of friendly neighbors and vibrant landscapes. Hobbs offers the comforting allure of a small-town vibe, coupled with the dynamic energy of a city on the rise.
Hobbs is not just a place to live; it's a place to thrive. With a
burgeoning economy driven by key industries such as energy and agriculture, opportunities here are boundless, attracting entrepreneurs and professionals alike. Boasting a robust education system, Hobbs is an environment where learning seeds are sown and future aspirations take flight.
The heart and soul of Hobbs reside in its recreational spaces and cultural hubs. Local parks and sports venues create an atmosphere of community bonding, while the Lea County Event Center
Hobbs, New Mexico
4 | HelloHobbs, New Mexico • Spring Issue
Hello Hobbs, New Mexico • Spring Issue |5
hosts a captivating array of shows and local events. Residents revel in the arts at the Western Heritage Museum and Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame, which celebrate the rich cultural tapestry and history of the Southwest.
In Hobbs, enchanting desert sunsets provide the backdrop for a life brimming with potential and positivity. Every day in this enchanting city invites you to become part of a warm,...
Hobbs, New Mexico
Hobbs, New Mexico: Where Opportunity Meets Charm
Welcome to Hobbs, New Mexico, a hidden gem in the Land of Enchantment that is quickly capturing the hearts of those who discover it. Picture a community where the spirit of growth and progress collides harmoniously with the timeless charm of friendly neighbors and vibrant landscapes. Hobbs offers the comforting allure of a small-town vibe, coupled with the dynamic energy of a city on the rise.
Hobbs is not just a place to live; it's a place to thrive. With a burgeoning economy driven by key industries such as energy and agriculture, opportunities here are boundless, attracting entrepreneurs and professionals alike. Boasting a robust education system, Hobbs is an environment where learning seeds are sown and future aspirations take flight.
The heart and soul of Hobbs reside in its recreational spaces and cultural hubs. Local parks and sports venues create an atmosphere of community bonding, while the Lea County Event Center hosts a captivating array of shows and local events. Residents revel in the arts at the Western Heritage Museum and Lea County Cowboy Hall of Fame, which celebrate the rich cultural tapestry and history of the Southwest.
In Hobbs, enchanting desert sunsets provide the backdrop for a life brimming with potential and positivity. Every day in this enchanting city invites you to become part of a warm, welcoming story of progress and possibility. Come discover Hobbs, where every corner beckons with promise.
Contact Lenses: Why People Wear Them, & Common Problems to Watch For
Contact lenses are a popular vision correction option for teens and adults who want flexibility in their daily lives. Many people in Hobbs choose contact lenses because they work well with sports, physical jobs, or busy schedules. Contacts provide a clear vision without frames, which can feel more
natural during movement or outdoor activity. For some wearers, they also offer convenience and confidence compared to glasses.One advantage of contact lenses is the wider field of vision they provide. Because lenses move with the eyes, they eliminate the side distortions that glasses can cause.
6 | HelloHobbs, New Mexico • Spring Issue
Contact Lenses: Why People Wear Them, & Common Problems to Watch For
Contact lenses are a popular vision correction option for teens and adults who want flexibility in their daily lives. Many people in Hobbs choose contact lenses because they work well with sports, physical jobs, or busy schedules. Contacts provide a clear vision without frames, which can feel more natural during movement or outdoor activity. For some wearers, they also offer convenience and confidence compared to glasses.
One advantage of contact lenses is the wider field of vision they provide. Because lenses move with the eyes, they eliminate the side distortions that glasses can cause. This can be helpful for driving, athletics, or work that requires frequent head and eye movement. Contacts also avoid problems like fogging in humid weather or slipping during physical activity.
Despite these benefits, contact lenses require careful use to avoid eye problems. Since lenses sit directly on the surface of the eye, poor habits can quickly lead to irritation. Issues often begin when lenses are worn longer than recommended or handled without proper hygiene. Understanding how problems develop helps wearers protect their eye health.
Overwearing contact lenses is one of the most common mistakes. Daily lenses should be discarded after a single day, while weekly or monthly lenses must be replaced on schedule. As lenses age, they collect deposits from tears and the environment. These deposits can reduce comfort and cause lenses to feel dry or blurry, especially later in the day.
Sleeping in contact lenses that are not approved for overnight use also increases risk. During sleep, oxygen flow to the eyes naturally decreases, and the lens can reduce it further. This can lead to redness, swelling, and a greater chance of infection. Even short naps can cause discomfort for some people, particularly if their eyes are already dry.
Dry eye symptoms are another common problem among contact lens wearers. Wind, air conditioning, and long periods of screen use can worsen dryness. When people stare at screens, they blink less often, which allows the eye surface to dry out. This can make contacts feel scratchy or cause vision to fluctuate throughout the day.
Cleaning and storage habits play a major role in contact lens safety. Lenses should always be cleaned with fresh solution and stored in a clean case. Reusing old solutions or rinsing lenses with tap water can introduce harmful bacteria. Contact lens cases also need regular cleaning and replacement, since buildup can occur even when lenses are handled correctly.
Burning, redness, blurry vision, or discomfort are warning signs that contact lenses should be removed and the eyes evaluated.
Eye infections related to contact lenses can develop quickly and may become serious. Symptoms may include pain, discharge, light sensitivity, or swelling. Some infections begin with mild irritation that worsens if lenses continue to be worn. Early evaluation is important because certain infections can cause lasting damage if treatment is delayed.
Some people experience sensitivity or allergic reactions related to their contact lenses or cleaning solutions. Preservatives in solutions or buildup on the lens surface can trigger itching and redness. When symptoms repeat, switching lens types or solutions may help. An eye exam can determine whether contacts remain a good option.
Blurry vision that comes and goes can also be linked to contact lens use. A lens that dries out or shifts position can affect clarity. Changes in prescription or lens fit may also cause visual fluctuation. Regular contact lens fittings help ensure lenses sit properly and allow enough oxygen to reach the eye.
Choosing between contact lenses and glasses often depends on lifestyle and comfort. Many people alternate between the two, wearing contacts for specific activities and glasses at home. This approach can reduce eye strain and limit contact lens overuse. It also provides a backup if irritation occurs.
When worn responsibly, contact lenses are a safe and effective way to correct vision. Following wear schedules, maintaining clean habits, and paying attention to discomfort help prevent common problems. For people in Hobbs and elsewhere, proper contact lens care supports both clear vision and long-term eye health.
Spencer Franz
This can be helpful for driving, athletics, or work that requires frequent head and eye movement. Contacts also avoid problems like fogging in humid weather or slipping during physical activity.Despite these benefits, contact lenses require careful use to avoid eye problems. Since lenses sit directly on the surface
of the eye, poor habits can quickly lead to irritation. Issues often begin when lenses are worn longer than recommended or handled without proper hygiene. Understanding how problems develop helps wearers protect their eye health.Overwearing contact lenses is one of the most common mistakes. Daily lenses should be discarded after a single day, while weekly or monthly lenses must be replaced on schedule. As lenses age, they collect deposits from tears and the environment. These deposits can reduce comfort and cause lenses to feel dry or blurry, especially later in the day.Sleeping in contact lenses that are not approved for...
Burning, redness, blurry vision, or discomfort are warning signs that contact lenses should be removed and the eyes evaluated.
About the Author
Dr. Spencer Franz earned his Doctorate of Optometry from the Illinois College of Optometry and completed advanced clinical training at leading glaucoma and cornea clinics. He operates The Eye Site in Hobbs, where he is committed to delivering thorough, patient-focused eye care and continuing the long-standing tradition of trusted vision care in the community.
HelloHobbs, New Mexico • Spring Issue |7
Ticks & Fleas Do Not Take Vacations
Ticks and fleas remain active through the warm months, and their presence can catch families off guard when routines move outdoors. These pests thrive in tall grass, shaded soil, and areas where wildlife pass through. Even a short walk in a neighborhood park can expose pets to parasites that cling to
fur and skin. People often assume these insects appear only in deep woods or rural areas, but they can survive in backyards, gardens, and shared green spaces. Their activity increases with warm temperatures, which means a long season of risk for both pets and people.When a dog or cat explores
8 | HelloHobbs, New Mexico • Spring Issue
Ticks & Fleas Do Not Take Vacations
Ticks and fleas remain active through the warm months, and their presence can catch families off guard when routines move outdoors. These pests thrive in tall grass, shaded soil, and areas where wildlife pass through. Even a short walk in a neighborhood park can expose pets to parasites that cling to fur and skin. People often assume these insects appear only in deep woods or rural areas, but they can survive in backyards, gardens, and shared green spaces. Their activity increases with warm temperatures, which means a long season of risk for both pets and people.
When a dog or cat explores outside, the movement of their coat attracts fleas and ticks searching for a host. A tick may latch on quietly, often unnoticed, until it has already begun feeding. A flea may hide deep in the fur where it is hard to spot. Both carry the potential to spread illness, and both reproduce quickly if not addressed in time. Many pet owners check only when they see scratching or irritation, but the early stages may show no obvious signs. Regular grooming and inspection help detect trouble before a small problem becomes a larger concern.
The outdoor environment plays a big role in exposure. Overgrown yards hold moisture and shade, two conditions that allow ticks and fleas to survive long stretches of heat. Fallen leaves, wood piles, and dense shrubs provide cover for rodents and small wildlife, which often carry these pests. A pet that simply explores along a fence line or rests under a tree may come into contact with them. Many owners trim lawns for appearance, but the health benefits are just as important. Shorter grass gives pests fewer places to hide and reduces the chance that they attach to passing pets.
Daily habits support prevention. Checking a pet after outdoor time helps families stay aware of small changes in the skin or coat. Feeling along the ears, collar line, legs, and belly can reveal a tick that has begun to settle. Fleas move quickly, but they leave behind small specks that look like dirt. Washing outdoor clothing in hot water removes pests that may cling to fabric. These steps do not take long, yet they help limit how often pests enter the home. Awareness shifts the focus from reacting to problems to preventing them before they grow.
If a tick is found, removal should be slow and steady. Using clean, fine-pointed tweezers, a person can grasp the tick close to the skin and lift with gentle pressure. Twisting or yanking can leave parts behind, so a controlled pull is best. After removal, the area should be cleaned with mild soap and water. Many owners worry they have made a mistake during removal, but in most cases, careful handling avoids complications. The next step is to watch for changes in behavior or energy, since some tick-borne illnesses begin with subtle symptoms. A pet that seems tired, feverish, or less interested in food after a tick bite should be evaluated, since early care improves comfort and recovery.
Flea issues differ, especially inside a home. Fleas multiply quickly and can spread to carpets, bedding, and furniture if not managed early. A single flea on a pet can represent a much larger problem developing out of sight. Scratching, chewing on the tail or hindquarters, or small scabs along the lower back often signal flea exposure. Regular cleaning, vacuuming, and washing of bedding reduces the chance of a full infestation. For many families, routine use of prevention products gives added protection during the warm months.
Pets handle parasites differently depending on age, health, and sensitivity. Older pets may react more strongly to bites because their skin becomes thinner. Young pets may scratch more intensely, which can lead to irritation or infection. Allergies to flea saliva can cause red patches or hair loss. Because the signs vary widely, owners sometimes misread the clues, thinking the problem is seasonal itching or simple dryness. A veterinarian can help sort out the cause and offer guidance that matches the pet’s needs and lifestyle.
Families also play an important role by keeping the home and yard in good condition. Removing debris, trimming shrubs, and clearing shaded areas make it harder for pests to settle. Even small steps, such as shaking out blankets after outdoor picnics or brushing a dog before coming inside, contribute to a healthier routine. When prevention becomes part of daily life, pests have fewer opportunities to take hold.
Ticks and fleas may be small, but their impact can grow quickly if not understood. They do not disappear during the warm season, and they do not take breaks. With steady habits, regular checks, and awareness of the outdoor environment, families can limit exposure and protect their pets through every stage of the season.
Dr. Mark Justice
outside, the movement of their coat attracts fleas and ticks searching for a host. A tick may latch on quietly, often unnoticed, until it has already begun feeding. A flea may hide deep in the fur where it is hard to spot. Both carry the potential to spread illness, and both reproduce quickly if not addressed in time.
Many pet owners check only when they see scratching or irritation, but the early stages may show no obvious signs. Regular grooming and inspection help detect trouble before a small problem becomes a larger concern.The outdoor environment plays a big role in exposure. Overgrown yards hold moisture and shade, two conditions that allow ticks and fleas to survive long stretches of heat. Fallen leaves, wood piles, and dense shrubs provide cover for rodents and small wildlife, which often carry these pests. A pet that simply explores along a fence line or rests under a tree may come into contact with them. Many owners trim lawns for...
A pet that seems tired, feverish, or less interested in food after a tick bite should be evaluated, since early care improves comfor...
About the Author
Dr. Mark Justice is the owner and veterinarian at Double J Animal Hospital, where he provides compassionate and comprehensive care for pets in the local community. With over 20 years of experience in veterinary medicine, Dr. Justice is dedicated to ensuring the health and well-being of animals through preventive care, surgery, and emergency services.
