15 APRIL 3-9, 2025 westword.com WESTWORD | CONTENTS | LETTERS | NIGHT+DAY | CULTURE | CAFE | MUSIC | Carlin. “Everyone always thought he was my son,” Watkins says with a laugh. “He worked here throughout high school and college, but after the uncertainty of COVID, he took a job in New York City.” Now Watkins primarily relies on Hector Lobo, a friend who is a parking attendant nearby. Even as a mostly solo operator, Watkins has only missed four games in three decades. But after that impressive run, retirement is indeed on the horizon. “I think about it,” he admits. “Mostly during the middle of summer when it’s so hot, but I go back and forth. I’m just so passionate about it. I have made some really great friends over the years. They’re just friendly. Everyone’s different, it keeps it interesting. No two days are the same.” Several people have inquired about pur- chasing the cart and picking up the tongs in his place, Watkins says; he hopes to keep it in the Diamond Dawgs family by selling to Carlin, his former protégé, who has since opened his own hot dog cart in New York. For those interested in starting a similar venture or any other small business down- town, Watkins advises listening to the com- munity. “Keep your head up, it’s rough,” he warns. “There are a lot of ups and downs, but you can always work through it. Ask for help. Customers taught me how to run it. They taught me everything.” Right now, his focus is on the upcoming season. Although Watkins is a lifelong Car- dinals fan, the opening home game of the Colorado Rockies always marks the offi cial start of spring for him. Seeing the return of the crowds, including many familiar faces who’ve stopped by since they were kids and now have kids of their own, makes it all worth it. “I really appreciate everybody coming down and supporting the cart throughout the years,” Watkins concludes. “I love Denver and the community. If I didn’t have the com- munity, I probably wouldn’t still be here.” Email the author at [email protected]. Cafe continued from page 14 July 11, 2014 was declared “Joyl Watkins Day.” VALERIA MOONCH
