Traveling from Fort Worth on I-40 to visit family in Silicon Valley, I rarely forget to make a stop in Santa Rosa, New Mexico. The heyday of Route 66 is only a fond memory. Still the town survives.
While in Santa Rosa, I visit college friend Rudy "Spider" Sanchez. In the photo, the diminutive Rudy is posed next to his beloved pickup. I've known Rudy since 1973. In the 1970s he was a fixture at San José State University and active in the community.
He returned to New Mexico and his familial roots back in the 80s. For decades now, Rudy has been an entrepreneur, active in local politics and has been mayor. The proud New Mexican has shown me around the region many times. We've photographed decaying infrastructure, explored ranches, visited the famous Blue Hole and of course I always pay for dinner.
It seems, every time I talk to him someone in his large extended family has passed. Yes, his roots run deep in the region. This summer I will see Spider again. If you are in Santa Rosa, ask about Rudy. Everyone knows him.
