With a population of about 35,000 Hobbs boasts the Zia Park Race Track for thoroughbred and quarterhorse racing and Black Gold Casino. The University of Southwest, located here, is a Christian Institution of higher learning. Hobbs is also home to the Lea County Event Center. This modern center can hold large meetings and conferences, indoor rodeos, tractor pulls, indoor soccer and monster truck events. Its multi-purpose facility can also seat close to 4,800 people theater style in the main auditorium. The Southwest symphony with its orchestra and bands is headquartered in this city and annually presents a series of concerts. The Community Players of Hobbs annually put on performances ranging from dramatic to comedy to musical productions during a season running from February to December.

Hon. John R. Holler