ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The Albuquerque Dukes have gone down in history as the hometown heroes.

“People come in here, we have a big mural of the old stadium. They remember where they sat, where their dad took them, where their grandfather took them,” said Steve Palmisano.  

It’s Steve Palmisano’s honor to keep that history alive. He owns Albuquerque Dukes Store in Nob Hill and the rights to the logo.

“It means many things to many people. We’ve done hats for funerals, weddings, many families over the years,” said Palmisano. 

The team debuted in 1915. They played on and off as the Dukes, but in 1972 the name stuck, and the iconic cartoon conquistador was born.

It’s a symbol of pride, a common tattoo even.

“It’s a Zia tattoo or a Dukes tattoo. It’s New Mexico. It’s Albuquerque for them, and it’s home,” said Palmisano.

But that celebration of home was threatened last week when Palmisano announced on social media the Isotopes canceled Retro Night at the park after 17 years. 

Isotopes leaders and Palmisano couldn’t negotiate an agreement. Fans cried foul. 

“I think they got a good dose of people’s opinion as well, just like I did. So we all kind of agreed it’s a special game once a year to have out there once a year during baseball season,” said Palmisano.

It didn’t take long for a comeback. The two struck a deal and Retro Night is in full swing yet again. 

According to the Isotopes promotional schedule, Retro Night will be Aug. 2.