During a recent city commission meeting in Hobbs, Mayor Sam D. Cobb honored the 2024 SkillsUSA National Champion Chapter Business Procedure Team for their outstanding achievement. The team, consisting of Eileen Pacheco, Aubrey Davidson, Rosie Cavanaugh, Abby Rogers, Elena Valdivia, and Lillian Sloan, made history by winning the first-ever national gold medals in their category at the SkillsUSA championships held in Atlanta, Georgia, in June. The mayor proclaimed August 19, 2024, as SkillsUSA National Gold Medals Day in recognition of their hard work and dedication.

The team excelled in demonstrating parliamentary procedures and completing written tests on parliamentary law, dedicating an average of three hours each night to practice. Their success at the national level was part of a larger event that saw over 15,000 attendees and included participants from various skilled trades.

In addition to recognizing the SkillsUSA team, Mayor Cobb proclaimed August 19 as \"Never Give Up Day,\" emphasizing the importance of perseverance and determination in overcoming challenges. This day aims to inspire community members to continue striving for their goals, even in difficult times.

The meeting also included a segment recognizing city employees for their milestone service awards, highlighting the contributions of public servants who reflect the community's diversity. City Manager Manny Gomez expressed gratitude for the opportunity to acknowledge the hard work of city employees, noting their essential role in serving the community.