Community Rallies Behind Firefighters at First Annual Bingo Night
The Mountainair Fire & Rescue Department held its first annual Bingo Night fundraiser on Friday, August 1, 2025, at the Dr. Saul Community Center—drawing a crowd of roughly 100 community members for an evening of games, nachos, and Frito pie.
The event marked a new chapter in the department’s efforts to engage with the community and raise funds. Attendees of all ages packed the community center, clutching bingo cards and daubers while cheering each round's winner.
It was a particularly warm evening, with temperatures still hovering in the upper eighties by the 6:00 PM start time. Two swamp coolers hummed steadily at opposite corners of the stage, working overtime to keep the crowd comfortable. Their mechanical drone was nearly drowned out by the sounds of laughter, conversation, and shouts of “Bingo!” echoing across the hall.
Fire Chief Josh Archuleta, visibly energized by the turnout, said he was more than pleased with the community’s response to the department’s inaugural attempt at a bingo night. “It’s great to see this many people come out to support us,” Archuleta said. “We weren’t sure what to expect. I freaked out when I saw how many people showed up.”
In addition to bingo cards, attendees could purchase snacks at a concession table stocked with classic comfort fare like nachos, Frito pie, and soda. On the stage at the front of the community center, there was an array of prizes donated by area residents and small businesses, including gift certificates, handcrafted goods, and home décor items.
Archuleta expressed his gratitude to both the volunteers who helped organize the event and those who contributed prizes, noting that every bit of support helps the department. “We are grateful for the generosity of this town,” he added. “Whether it’s time, money, or just showing up, it all makes a difference.”
The department hopes to make Bingo Night an annual tradition.
Interested in supporting Mountainair Fire & Rescue? The volunteer department is seeking additional volunteers to join and receive training to support our community. Contact either Fire Chief Josh Archuleta or EMS Administrator Josh Lewis at 505-847-2226.