2026 Dancing with the Eddy County Stars Lineup Announced

This year’s lineup for “Dancing with the Eddy County Stars” includes an all-star softball player, the warden of the Eddy County Detention Center, and a popular local DJ. The United Way of Eddy County is holding the fundraiser March 20, 2026, at the Walter Gerrells Performing Arts Center in Carlsbad.

The fundraiser is modeled after several popular competition television shows. Professional dancers from the Utah Ballroom Dance Company will be partnering with eight Eddy County competitors.

“Last year was an incredible success,” said Catalina King, event chair. “When the dust cleared, we had a tie between Frankie Davis and Caleb Cunningham. This year, we’ve made some changes to ensure that there will only be one winner!”

Tickets and sponsorships are available at onecau.se/dwtes. Those purchasing tickets or sponsorship will have the option of giving points to one of the eight competitors. Dancers will be scored based on fundraising, a live audience vote, and judge scores. In addition to the tiebreaker, other notable changes this year include expanding the reception into the civic center’s annex and adding additional perks for VIP ticket holders and sponsors. Competitors this year are:

• Realtor Jessica Vasquez

• Hall of Fame legend Becky Thompson

• PY Foundation Executive Director Sandra Borges

• Carlsbad Rotary Club President Elizabeth Higgins

• Warden Billy Massengill

• DJ Jose Ornelas

• Oil and Gas Emission Technician Travis Carlo

• Que Suave Stylist Edward Calderon

Eddy County Commissioner Hailey Klein and NMOGA President Missi Currier will return as judges this year and will be joined by Linda Candelaria, executive director of the Con Alma Foundation. King will grace the stage as co-emcee.

“While the event is a lot of fun, it’s important to remember that this is also a fundraiser,” said Kyle Marksteiner, executive director of the United Way of Eddy County. “Last year’s success allowed the United Way to greatly expand its 211 services throughout 2025. We hope for a full house on March 20.”

Marksteiner said ExxonMobil has committed to being 2026’s “Waltz” sponsor.

“Strong sponsorship support will allow us to keep expanding this event,” he said, “And it will also let us continue to support the residents of Eddy County.”

For more information, please visit onecau.se/dwtes or call the United Way of Eddy County office at (575) 887-3504.