A Call for Support
With this momentum, the team behind SI-FI is looking to elevate the experience even further in 2025. They’re actively seeking headline sponsors, as well as monetary and in-kind donations, to help fund and grow the tournament.
“This isn’t just about football,” says the Not Of This World Flag Football, INC. team. “It’s about bringing people together, creating something that gives back to Roswell and our neighboring communities.”
How to Get Involved
Whether you’re a business looking to sponsor, a team ready to compete, or a family planning to spend Memorial Day weekend at the park, SI-FI offers a unique way to be part of something special.
To learn more about registration or sponsorship opportunities, follow on Facebook, visit slingitflingit.com, or visit their booth at upcoming Roswell events.
“MatanzaFest promises an unforgettable experience that honors the spirit of New Mexico’s Hispanic culture”
Roswell, New Mexico, is set to host its inaugural MatanzaFest on May 10, 2025, at the Eastern New Mexico State Fairgrounds. This event aims to celebrate and preserve the rich Hispanic culinary traditions of New Mexico, particularly the matanza—a communal pig roast that dates back to the 16th century.
What is a Matanza?
The term “matanza” translates to “the killing” in Spanish and refers to the traditional practice of slaughtering and roasting a pig, an event that historically served as both a means of food preservation and a communal gathering. Introduced by Spanish settlers in the 1500s, matanzas became vital community celebrations where neighbors collaborated to prepare and share various pork dishes. These gatherings not only provided sustenance but also strengthened social bonds and preserved cultural practices.
Roswell’s MatanzaFest: A Celebration of Heritage
Roswell’s MatanzaFest promises a day filled with traditional New Mexican cuisine, live music, and cultural festivities. Attendees can look forward to savoring dishes such as carne adovada, chicharrónes, carnitas, and red chile, all prepared in the authentic matanza style. The event also features a spectacular car show, adding an extra layer of entertainment for visitors.
Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Location: Eastern New Mexico State Fairgrounds, 2500 SE Main St., Roswell, NM 88203.
A Broader Tradition**
While this is Roswell’s first MatanzaFest, similar events have been longstanding traditions in other parts of New Mexico. For instance, Belen hosts the annual World’s Largest Matanza, which not only celebrates this rich cultural practice but also raises funds for scholarships benefiting local college students.
MatanzaFest in Roswell offers a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to immerse themselves in a cherished New Mexican tradition. It’s more than just a food festival; it’s a celebration of community, heritage, and the culinary arts that have been passed down through generations. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a curious traveler, MatanzaFest promises an unforgettable experience that honors the spirit of New Mexico’s Hispanic culture.
TJeep Enthusiasts Gear Up for the 5th Annual Topless at Bottomless Event
Mark your calendars, Jeep lovers! The muchanticipated 5th Annual Topless at Bottomless event is set to rev up on May 17, 2025, at the scenic Bottomless Lakes State Park near Roswell, New Mexico. This exhilarating gathering coincides with National Go Topless Day, offering Jeep owners and aficionados a day filled with adventure, camaraderie, and topless (Jeep) fun.
A Celebration of Freedom and Community
Hosted by Wicked Jeeps New Mexico, Topless at Bottomless has grown into a hallmark event for the Jeep community. Participants from across the region con-
verge to celebrate the unique spirit of Jeep culture, embracing the freedom of driving topless amidst the stunning backdrop of Bottomless Lakes. The event promises a variety of activities, including trail rides, vehicle crawls, cornhole tournaments, and an array of prizes. Whether you’re a seasoned off-roader or a newcomer eager to learn, there’s something for everyone.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
Location:
Bottomless Lakes State Park, 545A Bottomless Lakes Rd, Roswell, NM 88203
Activities:
Trail rides, Flex Ramp, Cornhole Tournaments, Raffles, and more!
Registration
THIS IS A FREE EVENT TO ATTEND. You will have to pay State Park access fees, camp fee if camping. Pre-registration is recommended. Early registrants will receive exclusive event merchandise such as flags, stickers, and T-shirts. Pre- Registration also enters you to win a 79 CJ5!
Plan Your Stay
For those traveling to Roswell for the event, Trailer Village RV Park offers convenient accommodations just 12 miles from Bottomless Lakes State Park. The park provides amenities suitable for RVs and campers, ensuring a comfortable stay during the festivities. Given the popularity of Topless at Bottomless, it’s advisable to book your accommodations well in advance.
Join the Conversation
Stay updated and connect with fellow participants by following the official Topless at Bottomless social media channels. Engage in discussions, share your excitement, and get the latest news leading up to the event.
Experience Roswell
Beyond the event, Roswell offers a plethora of attractions to explore. Dive into the town’s rich history at the International UFO Museum, enjoy local cuisine, or take in the natural beauty of southeastern New Mexico. Extending your stay provides an excellent opportunity to experience all that Roswell has to offer.
Safety First
While the event celebrates the fun of topless Jeep driving, safety remains a priority. Participants are encouraged to adhere to all park regulations, respect trail guidelines, and ensure their vehicles are in good condition for off-road activities.
The 5th Annual Topless at Bottomless promises to be an unforgettable event for Jeep enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re there for the trails, the community, or simply the joy of driving topless under the New Mexico sun, it’s an experience not to be missed.
Roswell, New Mexico, long celebrated for its unique history, UFO’s, and cultural attractions, is now emerging as a dynamic hub for innovation and growth. The city’s transformation is evident in its expanding aviation sector, burgeoning housing market, and the introduction of new businesses like BiltWise Structures.
Aviation Advancements Fuel Economic Growth
At the heart of Roswell’s development is the Roswell International Air Center (RIAC), a 5,000-acre facility that has evolved from a former military base into a bustling aviation complex. RIAC hosts a variety of industries, including aircraft storage, refurbishment, and dismantling services. Notably, companies like Dean Baldwin Painting operate here, providing specialized aircraft painting services. The center also supports commercial flights, with American Airlines offering routes to Dallas/Fort Worth and Phoenix.
Recent infrastructure upgrades at RIAC include a $22 million runway reconstruction and a comprehensive overhaul of the electrical grid, enhancing the facility’s capacity to support large-scale aviation operations. Plans are underway to expand the terminal, aiming to accommodate increased passenger traffic and potential new routes, such as a proposed connection to Denver.
National Championship Air Races: A New Home in Roswell
In a significant development, the National Championship Air Races, previously held in Reno, Nevada, for nearly six decades, are relocating to Roswell in 2025. The Roswell Air Center’s expansive layout and favorable conditions make it an ideal venue for the event. Organizers anticipate that the races will draw approximately 25,000 visitors, providing a substantial economic boost to the region.
Preparations for the event are extensive, involving terminal expansions and logistical planning to accommodate the influx of spectators and participants. Local officials view this as an opportunity to showcase Roswell’s capabilities and to further stimulate economic growth.
BiltWise Structures: Addressing Housing Demand
As Roswell experiences economic growth, the demand for housing has surged. Enter BiltWise Structures, a company specializing in off-site modular home construction. With a 240,000-square-foot facility in Roswell, BiltWise can produce up to 500 homes annually, offering a swift and efficient solution to the housing shortage.
BiltWise’s partnership with JH Homes ensures a seamless process from design to installation, catering to the needs of developers and homeowners alike. Their commitment to quality and affordability makes them a pivotal player in Roswell’s housing landscape.
Housing Market Trends
Roswell’s housing market reflects the city’s upward trajectory. As of February 2025, the median listing home price reached $252,000, marking a 16.1% increase year-over-year.
The average home value stands at $152,358, up 7.4% from the previous year. These figures underscore the growing demand for housing, driven by economic opportunities and population growth.
Looking Ahead
Roswell’s strategic investments and community initiatives are reshaping the city’s identity. With advancements in aviation, the introduction of the National Championship Air Races, and proactive housing solutions from companies like BiltWise Structures, Roswell is poised to become a beacon of innovation and prosperity in the Southwest.
In every community, there are those who quietly make things better—connecting people, bridging gaps, and turning good intentions into real impact. In Roswell, New Mexico, one such individual stands out. Known for her tireless dedication, collaborative spirit, and deep roots in service, she’s helped shape everything from youth programs to assisting major city events like the UFO Festival. Through her role at Pioneer Bank and her personal mission to uplift others, she’s become a true thread in the fabric of Roswell. In this interview, she shares the heart behind her service, the power of small actions, and why giving back has become a lifelong calling.
Can you share a bit about your background and what first inspired you to start seeking opportunities to make a difference in your community?
I grew up deeply involved in Scouts, with both of my parents serving as leaders. From an early age, I saw firsthand the value of community service and leadership. Later, I married an Eagle Scout, and together we continued that tradition of giving back. Both of us became Scout leaders and coaches, which further reinforced our commitment to serving others. It was important to us to pass on those values to our girls, raising them to always look for ways to contribute and make a positive impact in their community.
This foundation in service and leadership has been a guiding force in my life. Seeing how much my family and others around me gained from these experiences inspired me to always seek out ways to give back, whether through formal roles or simply by being involved and helping where I can. It’s part of who I am, and something I believe in deeply.
What strategies or approaches do you use to stay aware of and pursue new opportunities for service and community involvement?
I stay aware of new opportunities for service through a few ways. The volunteer program at Pioneer Bank is well-known, so many organizations reach out to us directly for help. I also keep an eye on local news and social media for events or needs in the community. However, a lot of my volunteer hours come from long-standing relationships with organizations I’ve worked with for years, like the Walker Aviation Museum, Boy Scouts, and MainStreet Roswell.
Can you share a memorable story where your service had a profound impact on an individual or a group?
I taught computer graphics for the New Mexico National Guard Youth Challenge for a short time. One of their students in my class was very intelligent, extremely polite and respectful and and I
was pleasantly surprised, especially considering that the school tends to have more challenging students. They would work on their projects and I would print them on 13x19 paper and post in the classroom. It was a shared classroom so many people saw their hard work. He came to me one day when he saw his work posted and let me know how proud he was because nothing he had ever worked hard on had ever been recognized publicly for others to see. That simple recognition made a huge impact on him and it helped me realize it is the little recognitions that can make a huge difference. I later wrote a recommendation letter for him to get into one of the military academies but lost touch after he left.
What does “sewing success” look like in your work, and how do you measure the outcomes of your initiatives?
“Sewing success” in my work means making a meaningful impact on the community through
both volunteer efforts and financial contributions. I love my job because my business truly values giving back, which is something I care deeply about. I measure success by tracking the volunteer hours our team at Pioneer Bank contributes and how our financial support benefits youth organizations and non-profits. Many of our team members also discover how rewarding it is to volunteer, which not only strengthens their connection to the community but also adds to their personal growth. Seeing the positive outcomes of our initiatives is what makes me proud of what we do.
Can you share an example of a successful partnership or collaboration that helped you achieve your goals?
Almost 10 years ago, the UFO Festival was fragmented, with 3-4 different groups hosting separate events on the same weekend. This caused a lot of confusion and frustration for tourists and locals alike, and it felt like we were missing an opportunity
to create something truly special. MainStreet Roswell stepped in, and we built a collaboration of all the groups involved and invited many other organizations to help in planning. By meeting regularly, we unified the events into one large, cohesive festival with a single schedule, making it much more memorable and enjoyable for everyone. Looking back, if we hadn’t come together, we could have continued losing out on the full potential of the festival.
How has seeking opportunities, serving others, and sewing success influenced your personal and professional growth?
Being able to see the immediate results of helping others and improving our city gives me an incredible sense of fulfillment. It’s not just about the hours spent volunteering—it’s about knowing that each action makes a difference right now, which keeps me motivated to continue.
Working alongside other volunteers at my job, I see how giving back helps them grow as individuals too. Watching volunteers I work with become better, more compassionate people makes it all worthwhile. Seeing the happiness our efforts bring to others is truly rewarding, and it reminds me that even the smallest acts of kindness can create a lasting impact.
Can you share an example of a successful partnership or collaboration that helped you achieve your goals?
Almost 10 years ago, the UFO Festival was fragmented, with 3-4 different groups hosting separate events on the same weekend. This caused a lot of confusion and frustration for tourists and locals alike, and it felt like we were missing an opportunity to create something truly special. MainStreet Roswell stepped in, and we built a collaboration of all the groups involved. By meeting regularly, we unified the events into one large, cohesive festival with a single schedule, making it much more memorable and enjoyable for everyone. Looking back, if we hadn’t come together, we could have continued losing out on the full potential of the festival.
What advice would you give to someone looking to start their journey in community service and harvesting success?
My advice to someone starting their journey in community service is to realize that there are countless organizations in our community that desperately need help. It’s becoming more and more difficult to find dedicated volunteers, but this makes your involvement all the more powerful.
Volunteering doesn’t just benefit those you serve— it transforms you into a better person. You’ll be a role model, inspiring others to step up and help grow the community.
There’s no shortage of opportunities. Start by looking on social media or calling local non-profits to see where the greatest needs are. You can walk a dog, serve a meal to a homeless person at the Community Kitchen, or help renovate a house for someone in need. No matter how small the task seems, it contributes to something much larger. Your actions will have an immense impact, both on the community and on yourself.
Is there anything you wish more people understood about the process of harvesting success through community service?
I wish more people understood that in Roswell, there are so many with big hearts who genuinely want to help but just don’t know where to start. The truth is, all it takes is a small step—reaching out to local non-profits or looking for opportunities to get involved. Too often, we see people on Facebook acting as “armchair quarterbacks,” complaining about what’s wrong in our community. But instead of focusing on the negatives, they could be out there making a real difference, right now.
The key is to act. Don’t wait for the perfect moment—every small contribution adds up. By stepping up, you set an example and become part of the solution. It’s not just about fixing what’s wrong, but about actively creating something better for our future.
Roswell Association of Realtors 2024 Citizen of Year
Allstate Insurance (575) 622-2282
3020 N Main St, Ste E Roswell, NM 88201
Church on the Move (575) 622-7011
901 W Brasher Rd Roswell, NM 88203
Freedom Foam (575) 602-3728 NM-265, Roswell, NM 88201
Roswell Bags Cornhole sales@roswellbags.com Roswell, NM 88203
The Paleta Bar Roswell (575) 622-4093
4504 N Main St suite H, Roswell, NM 88201
Papa Murphy’s Pizza (575) 622-4999
3116 N Main St, Roswell, NM 88201
Main Street Roswell (575) 622-4093
105 W 3rd St Ste. 420, Roswell, NM 88201
Chile Challenge Park Phone: (575) 743-3942
Highway 187 Caballo, NM 87931
MTA Tire Factory (575) 623-20903020
N. Main St, Roswell, NM 88201
Majestic Radio (575) 622-6450
5206 W 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201
The Hot Bev (575) 914-2900
1100 North Virginia Ave, Roswell, NM 88203
Pioneer Bank Corporate Office (575) 624-5200
3000 N Main St Roswell, NM 88203
Roswell Appliance Outlet (575) 363-9236
600 S Main St Roswell, NM 88203
Agency 66 (575) 777.1935
3020 N. Main St, Roswell, NM 88201
Big R Stores (575) 363-1262
1310 S Main St Roswell, NM 88203
Albertsons Market (575) 623-6100
900 W 2nd St
Roswell, NM 88201
Albertsons Market (575) 623-6100
1110 S Main St
Roswell, NM 88203
MainStreet Roswell (575) 914-8017
105 W 3rd St Ste. 420 Roswell, NM 88201
McDonald’s (575) 622-4752
720 N Main St
Roswell, NM 88201
United Way of Chaves County (575) 622-4150
400 N Pennsylvania Ave
Roswell, NM 88201
Chaves County Clerk (575) 622-2721
1 St Mary’s Pl, Roswell, NM 88203
Best Western El Rancho Palacio (575) 622-2721
2205 N Main St
Roswell, NM 88201
Roswell Inn (575) 623-6050
2101 N Main St
Roswell, NM 88201
Baymont by Wyndham Roswell (575) 623-6050
2300 N Main St
Roswell, NM 88201
Roswell Appliance Outlet (575) 363-9236
600 S. Main St
Roswell, NM 88203
Lewis Truck & 4x4 (575) 624-0824
4500 W 2nd St
Roswell, NM 88201
Victory Outreach of Roswell, NM (575) 363-6008
2529 W Alameda St
Roswell, NM 88203
Roswell Chamber (575) 623-5695
131 W 2nd S
Roswell, NM 88201
Westlake Ace Hardware (575) 624-0550
2810 N Main St
Roswell, NM 88201
Moon Man Printing (505) 974-1125
305 N Main St
Roswell, NM 88201
Ancients of Days (575) 623-2222
127 N Main St
Roswell, NM 88203
Roswell Invaders (575) 838-2667
1000 E Poe St
Roswell, NM 88203
Jet Auto Glass (575) 627-6839
816 S Main St
Roswell, NM 88203
Cuts & Cues (505) 414-4508
901 W 2nd St
Roswell, NM 88203
The Holy Waters LLC (505) 414-4508
3020 N Main Ste B
Roswell, NM 88201
SCP Security (575) 910-2823
Roswell, NM 88201
Hippy Chicks (575) 627-3868
802 S. Main Street
Roswell, NM 88203
BANKING WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH: INVESTING IN YOU AND OUR COMMUNITIES.
At Pioneer Bank, we take immense pride in our commitment to both our customers and community. Through our dedicated team of employees and passionate volunteers, we've been able to make a significant impact by giving back over $180,000 in donations and contributing more than 4,300 volunteer
hours in 2023 to support various community initiatives. We firmly believe that a strong community makes for a stronger bank, and we are honored to play an active role in nurturing and enriching the lives of those we serve. Together, we are building a brighter future for everyone. 3000 N. Main St. 306 N. Pennsylvania 2 St. Mary’s Place 575-624-5200 | www.pioneer.bank
