As I write this message, my heart is heavy with grief for the three precious lives we lost during the recent flash flooding disasters that swept through our beloved village. Our thoughts and prayers remain with their families and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We also hold in our hearts those who were injured and displaced, and we are committed to supporting them through their recovery.
The devastating floods tested our community in ways we never imagined, but in the face of tragedy, I witnessed something truly remarkable – the unwavering spirit of Ruidoso residents. I watched neighbors help neighbors, strangers become family, and our entire community unite with a strength that reminded me why I am so proud to serve as your mayor.
The Village of Ruidoso stands firmly committed to helping every resident recover and rebuild. We are working tirelessly with county, state, and federal agencies to ensure that resources reach those who need them most. Our emergency response teams, along with countless volunteers, continue to provide assistance with cleanup efforts, temporary housing, and essential services. We will not rest until every family has the support they need to get back on their feet.
Moving forward, we are equally committed to continuing the implementation of comprehensive flood mitigation measures to protect our community from future disasters. We are reviewing our emergency preparedness plans, exploring infrastructure improvements, and working with experts to identify solutions that will make Ruidoso more resilient against extreme weather events.
To every resident who opened their home to a displaced neighbor, who donated supplies, who volunteered their time, or who simply offered a helping hand – thank you. Your compassion and generosity embody the very best of what makes Ruidoso special. In times of crisis, we discover who we truly are, and what I’ve seen is a community that refuses to be broken.
We will rebuild. We will recover. And we will emerge from this tragedy stronger than we were before. That is the Ruidoso way, and that is what makes our community extraordinary.
With gratitude and determination…
Mayor Lynn Crawford
Mayor Lynn Crawford
VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETINGS
Recent Actions
July 8, 2025, Regular Council Meeting Highlights:
» Approval of Grant Agreement between the Village of Ruidoso and the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration for the New Mexico E-911 Program Grant to Fund the Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) at the Village of Ruidoso, for the Period of Time between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026.
» Approval and Adoption of Resolution 2025-22, a Resolution Adopting the Infrastructure Capital Improvement Plan (ICIP) for Fiscal Years 2027-2031.
» Approval to Rename Fire Station #1 to Virgil Reynolds Main Fire Station.
» Approval of Task Order #3 with Souder, Miller & Associates for Preliminary and Final Design Services for Tank Rehabilitation.
» Approval of Task Order #9 with Souder, Miller & Associates for Design and Bid of Wingfield 2 Water Line Improvements.
Next Council Meeting: August 12, 2025, at 1:00 PM in the Council Chambers at Village Hall
CALL ME RUIDOSO
A Vital Resource for Residents & Visitors
In today’s fast-paced world, staying informed about emergencies is more crucial than ever. Natural disasters, public safety incidents, and other unforeseen events can happen at any time, making it essential to have reliable information at your fingertips.
Why Sign Up for Call Me Ruidoso?
» Timely Information: Emergency alerts deliver critical information directly to your phone or email, ensuring you’re aware of any potential dangers in your area.
» Stay Safe: By receiving alerts promptly, you can take immediate action to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property.
» Customized Notifications: You can customize your preferences so you only receive alerts that are relevant to your location and needs.
» Peace of Mind: Knowing that you’re connected to official channels for emergency information can provide peace of mind during uncertain times.
To sign up for Call Me Ruidoso, visit CallMeRuidoso.com and input your information.
Pictured from left to right: Greg Cory, Gary Jackson, Darren Hooker, Lynn Crawford, Mayor Pro Tem Rifle Salas, Susan Lutterman, Joe Eby
OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Preparedness Kit
In an era marked by increasing natural disasters, the importance of being prepared cannot be overstated. Whether it’s a wildfire, flash flood, or extended power outage, having a well-stocked disaster preparedness kit can make all the difference.
Disasters can strike without warning, leaving little time to gather essential supplies. A disaster preparedness kit ensures you have the necessary items to survive and stay safe during and after an emergency. The Ruidoso Office of Emergency Management recommends that every household have a basic emergency supply kit to sustain each family member for at least 72 hours.
Essential items for your disaster preparedness kit include:
Water and Food
» Water: One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.
» Food: At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food, including canned goods, protein bars, and dried fruits.
Clothing and Bedding
» Clothing: Sturdy, weather-appropriate clothing, including extra socks and shoes.
» Blankets/Sleeping Bags: Warm bedding for each person. Initially, shelters are often just open school gyms without cots or other disaster supplies.
First Aid Kit
» Medical Supplies: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, adhesive tape, scissors, tweezers, a thermometer, and an N95 mask for evacuations.
» Medications: A seven-day supply of any prescription medications, along with a list of medical conditions and treatment instructions.
Tools and Supplies
» Flashlight/Radio: Battery-powered or hand-crank flashlight with extra batteries, and an AM/FM radio or NOAA weather radio to stay informed about the emergency.
» Whistle: To signal for help.
Personal Items
» Important Documents: Copies of personal documents such as insurance policies, identification, and bank account records, stored in a waterproof container.
» Cash: In small denominations, as ATMs and credit card machines may not be working.
» Emergency Contacts: A list of family members, friends, and local emergency numbers.
» Personal Items: Comfort items such as your favorite book, coloring book, or cards.
Special Considerations
» Children and Pets: Ensure you have additional supplies to meet the needs of infants and pets, including baby formula, diapers, pet food, and extra water.
» Elderly and Disabled Individuals: Include additional medical supplies and mobility aids to cater to the specific needs of elderly or disabled family members.
For more information on disaster preparedness, visit www.ready.gov or contact the Ruidoso Office of Emergency Management at 575-257-3473.
LEVEL 1 FIRE RESTRICTIONS LEVEL 1 FIRE RESTRICTIONS
INFORMATION
Permitted commercial fire pits - OK
Outdoor cooking including charcoal - OK
Non-permitted fire pits, campfires, & fireworks - NOT OK
KEEP RUIDOSO BEAUTIFUL
Memorial Mural Project
Against a backdrop of a bare wall, a group of 100 young ladies, all volunteers from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in El Paso, Texas, came together to transform a blank wall into a masterpiece, breathing life and color into the Village. Their passion and determination created two murals to memorialize two men: Tom Jones, a realtor and volunteer firefighter, and Bob Moore, who owned the Apache Motel and volunteered with the Ruidoso Fire Department.
For the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the mural was more than just a task; it was an opportunity for youth to connect with the Village and to make a lasting difference. It’s a colorful reminder of the deep ties between generations, a lasting impact on our community, and pride. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints youth have volunteered several times with Keep Ruidoso Beautiful through the years, picking up trash, working on trails, and anything to help this community.
The Village of Ruidoso is looking for qualified people to join our team! We currently have openings in several departments, and we offer opportunities for competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and NM Public Employees Retirement Association plans!
• Earn more with the Village’s pay-for-performance plan
• Progressive pay and step plans are available
• Continuing education courses and specialized training are available
• Excellent opportunities for advancement in all departments
OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
How to Correctly Set Your Cell Phone Emergency Alerts
With the recent flash floods, it has made everyone aware that getting up to date information is more important now than ever. Please check to make sure that your phone has all the correct settings turned on so that you do not miss any government alerts which include alerts from the National Weather Service.
iPhones:
1. Go to Settings
2. Scroll down and select Notifications
3. Scroll all the way down on the Notifications screen until you get to Government Alerts
4. Toggle Emergency Alerts, Public Safety Alerts, and Test Alerts to the “ON” position
5. Within Emergency Alerts, be sure to toggle Local Awareness” to the “ON” position to allow for locationbased alerts
6. Also in Emergency Alerts, enable Always Play Sound so that alerts come in even if the phone is on silent Android Phones:
1. Go to Settings
2. Scroll down and select Notifications
3. In Notifications, select Advanced Settings
4. Scroll to Wireless Emergency Alerts and toggle “ON” Allow Alerts
5. Make sure that all Emergency Alerts are toggled “ON” including Extreme Threats, Severe Threats, Public Safety Messages, and State and Local
Ruidoso All-Hazard Information Network (RAIN) Map
» Albertson’s: 721 Mechem
The VOR Office of Emergency Management has developed and maintains a live, interactive map tracking current low water crossing statuses, road closures, flood zones, along with a complete list of Flood Safe Partners.
The RAIN Map can be viewed by visiting Ruidoso-NM.gov and clicking on “View the Map” in the top yellow announcement bar. Bookmark that page for easy access. It is also available on the DiscoverRuidoso app which can be downloaded from the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android).
One of the features of the map is the listing of all the VOR Flood Safe Partners. These are businesses that have been identified throughout the Village as being on higher ground that are willing to provide temporary refuge to anyone who needs a place to wait for the waters to recede. These businesses include:
» Downshift Hidden Tap: 2408-B Sudderth
» Downshift Riverside: 2704 Sudderth
» Elevate Hotel: 25980 US-70
» Farley’s: 1200 Mechem
» Jacks Backstage: 1056 Mechem
» K-Bobs: 157 US-70
» Sips & Snacks: 2415 Sudderth
» Walmart: 26180 US-70
» Win, Place & Show: 2516 Sudderth
» Yesterlanes: 1202 Mechem
Groundbreaking for Elk Meadows Workforce Housing Project
LINCOLN COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER
From the Desk of The Chief Executive – Todd Oberheu
When most people hear “occupational therapy,” they think it’s only for recovering from a big injury or illness—but it’s so much more than that.
Occupational therapy (OT) helps people of all ages do the everyday things that matter most to them—whether that’s getting dressed, going to school, playing with friends, driving, cooking, or simply feeling more confident and independent. It’s about finding ways to keep doing the things you love, even when life throws you a curveball.
Maybe a wrist injury is making it hard to button your shirt. Maybe arthritis is keeping you from gardening or driving. Maybe your child is struggling in school because of sensory challenges. That’s where an occupational therapist can help. An occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant will take a wholeperson approach, ensuring they understand your unique situation by taking into consideration your emotional state, values, and priorities and working with you to come up with practical, personalized strategies to overcome obstacles.
OT isn’t just for individuals. Therapists also work with schools, communities, and organizations to support healthy habits and meaningful engagement, helping older adults stay safe behind the wheel, easing the transition for veterans returning to civilian life, or supporting youth facing mental health or addiction issues.
In Lincoln County, occupational therapy services are available at Lincoln County Medical Center’s Rehabilitation Services in both inpatient and outpatient settings. You’ll find a dedicated team here, including Carma Patterson, OTR/L, Jaretta Burk, OTR/L, and Sarah Ferguson, OTA, along with other providers in private clinics and home health.
If you or someone you love is having trouble with everyday activities—whether due to a new diagnosis, a long-term condition, or just the challenges of getting older—OT can help. Talk to your doctor about a referral, reach out to your child’s school, or contact the Lincoln County Medical Center OT team directly at 575-257-8239.
Because life shouldn’t be lived based on what you can’t do—it’s about finding new ways to keep doing what you love.
RUIDOSO MUNICIPAL SCHOOLS
From the Desk of Superintendent Becca Ferguson
Welcome back, Warriors, to the 2025–2026 school year!
The Ruidoso Municipal School District is excited to welcome back all students, staff, and families for the start of the 2025–2026 school year! The first day of school is Wednesday, August 6, 2025, and we’re looking forward to another successful year of learning, growth, and community.
To help everyone prepare, we encourage families to visit our district website at RuidosoSchools.org, where you’ll find important resources and back-to-school information, including: School Site Handbooks, 2025–2026 School Year Calendar, School Supply Lists (also available at our local Walmart and on our district Facebook pages), Ruidoso Middle School Uniform Policy Updates (located under Student Information > Ruidoso Middle School), and Bus Schedules from Lincoln County Transportation.
A reminder to all families: breakfast and lunch are provided at no cost to all Ruidoso students throughout the school year.
As we navigate changing weather conditions, the safety of our students and staff remains our top priority. Please take a moment to review the Ruidoso Municipal School District’s Weather Protocols to ensure you and your family are informed and prepared. Our weather-related procedures include coordination with local law enforcement, road and transportation departments, and real-time monitoring of forecasts to make timely decisions about school delays or closures.
School buses, provided by Lincoln County Transportation, will begin running on the first day of school. Route times are subject to change due to road closures and unforeseen circumstances. For specific route questions, please contact your student’s school site. Any school-issued badge issued last year that has not been turned in yet, please give it to your driver. We will need to update all badges. Further information on badges will be forthcoming.
We’re thrilled to start this new school year together and can’t wait to see our students back on campus!
Summer EVENTS
Check out our line-up of great events for summer! Please visit DiscoverRuidoso.com for additional events and details.
WEEKLY COMMUNITY EVENTS
SUNDAY:
• Sunday Market, Enchanted Vine Barn
TUESDAY:
• Karaoke Night, WPS
• Doso Dirtbags Open Mic, Jacks Patina Lounge
WEDNESDAY:
• Wet Your Whistle Wednesday, Lost Hiker Brewing Co.
THURSDAY:
• Veterans Coffee and Company, 615 Sudderth Dr. Ste 1
• Open Mic Night with Tyler Jones, Downshift Brewing Company Hidden Tap
• Phil Hamilton “Gringo Loco”, Casa Blanca Cantina
• Thirstday Night Trivia, Lost Hiker Brewing Co
THURSDAY - SATURDAY:
• Brendan Dawes, Quarters Bar & Grill
SATURDAY:
• Midtown Market, Country Club Park
AUGUST 1:
• Humane Society of Lincoln County Furball Fundraiser - Hawaii Fid-O, Alto Lakes & Golf Course Country Club
• Lincoln Lecture Series: Archaeological Investigations at Fort Stanton, San Juan Bautista Church in Historic Lincoln
• Lincoln Lecture Series: Prehistoric Lifeways of Lincoln County, San Juan Bautista Church in Historic Lincoln
AUGUST 2:
• Benise, Spencer Theater
• Lincoln Lecture Series: The Evolution of the Colt Frontier Six-Shooter and Winchester 73, San Juan Bautista Church in Historic Lincoln
• Lincoln Lecture Series: Most Dangerous Street in America, San Juan Bautista Church in Historic Lincoln
• Back to School Bash, Wingfield Park
AUGUST 1-3:
• Alto Artists Tour, Alto; Billy the Kid Pageant and Old Lincoln Days, Historic Lincoln
AUGUST 8:
• Moonlight Hike, White Sands National Park
TUESDAY:
• Baby & Me at 10:30 AM
WEDNESDAY:
• Storytime at 10:30 AM
AUGUST 9:
• Annual Brewdoso Craft Beer and Wine Festival, Wingfield Park
• Tonight’s The Night - Rob Stewart Tribute, Spencer Theater
• White Sands Full Moon Night, White Sands National Park
AUGUST 14:
• Thirstday Night Trivia “Creamsicle Day”, Lost Hiker Brewing Co.
AUGUST 15-17:
• XTERRA Ruidoso
AUGUST 16:
• Lee Greenwood American Spirit Tour, Spencer Theater
• Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Banquet, Ruidoso Convention Center
AUGUST 21-22:
• Crystal Gayle, Spencer Theater
AUGUST 23:
• Grindstone Trail Runs, Wingfield Park
• White Oaks Miner’s Day, White Oaks
• Stevie Nicks Illusion Tribute, Inn of the Mountain Gods
• Fort Stanton LIVE, Fort Stanton
AUGUST 27:
• Smokey’s Garden, Smokey Bear Ranger District
SEPTEMBER 4:
• Rainmakers Golf Tourney, Rainmakers Golf Course
SEPTEMBER 7:
• White Sands Full Moon Night, White Sands National Park
SEPTEMBER 8:
• Moonlight Hike, White Sands National Park
SEPTEMBER 10-14:
• Roswell Air Races, Roswell International Air Center
SEPTEMBER 11:
SEPTEMBER 18:
• Smokey’s Garden, Smokey Bear Ranger District
SEPTEMBER 19-20:
• Motor Mountain Weekend, Jacks Backstage
SEPTEMBER 20:
• Run to Ruidoso: Rusty Balls C10 Club Car & Truck Show, Wingfield Park
SEPTEMBER 27:
• Oktoberfest, Downshift Brewing Company Riverside
DEPARTMENTS & PHONE NUMBERS
Airport 575-336-8111
Convention Center 575-258-5445
Judicial 575-257-9055
Library 575-258-3704
Parks & Recreation 575-257-5030
Police 575-258-7365
Fire 575-257-3473
Solid Waste 575-257-1502
Street Works 575-257-6023
Forestry 575-257-5544
Planning & Zoning 575-258-6999
Regional Waste Water Treatment Plant (RWWTP) 575-378-8417
Senior Center 575-257-4565
Water Distribution and Sewer
Collections 575-257-2386
Water Production 575-257-5525
Water Rights/Watershed (RJU) 575-258-6913
RUIDOSO MIDTOWN ASSOCIATION
www.Ruidoso-NM.gov
From the Desk of RMA Executive Director Tim Duckworth
The 4th of July week proved that Ruidoso Midtown is getting stronger and more vibrant. Midtown was busy into the weekend! Loads of visitors in and out of stores, hands holding bags full of merchandise and treats. Midtown restaurants and shops were filling bellies from all over.
The Ruidoso Midtown Mixer was a blast, and RMA was happy to see new faces who braved the rainy weather. A big thank you to Ray Griego at The Quarters for the delicious food. There was a lot of networking, and it was a productive meeting overall.
The Ruidoso Midtown Association will be hosting Brewdoso on August 9, 2025, at Wingfield Park, featuring New Mexico’s finest craft beer, wine, and spirits, food trucks, live music, and loads of family fun. Tickets are available now at brewdoso. com. Vendors and patrons who would like to attend can reach us on social media or ruidosomidtownassociation.com.
The Ruidoso Midtown Association has begun preparations for Halloween in Midtown on October 29, 2025. This year’s event is shaping up to be the biggest and best yet. Safe trick-or-treating, coffin races, costume contests, and the famous pumpkin roll are just a few of the events scheduled.
We would like to welcome four new businesses to our Ruidoso Midtown:
» Feather & Stone Emporium (2545 Sudderth): Crystals, incense, and trinkets of all sorts.
» New MexiGo Grill (located inside Hatch Chili World at 2507 Sudderth): Delicious New Mexican handheld food perfect for strolling through Midtown.
» Ideal Cannabis & Treeline Tattoo Parlor (2641 Sudderth): Cannabis and professional ink.
Tim Duckworth
EASTERN NEW MEXICO UNIVERSITY - RUIDOSO
From the Desk of President Ryan Trosper
ENMU-Ruidoso’s literary and fine arts magazine, Ridgeline Review (Issue 5 Spring 2025), was recently released. This year’s issue features more than 40 local and regional artists and creative writers. Contributors include ENMU-Ruidoso students and staff, along with community members, including both experienced and first-time writers and artists. The issue was produced and edited by three Student Editors, Jonathan Wheeless, Reese Pretlow, and Gloria Jeremias, and Faculty Advisor and Language and Fine Arts Department Chair Jeff Frawley. Staff Member Jocelyn Rose also contributed to the design of the issue and served as the assistant designer. Free copies are available at the ENMU-Ruidoso Campus at 709 Mechem Drive. The cover features a Big Bend Starscape photo by ENMU-Ruidoso Professor Emeritus Jack McCaw.
Student Editor Gloria Jeremias says, “Our goal with this issue was to designate the arts as the drive of a people through trials and tribulations by showcasing the works of local artists and writers that help keep this spirit going. Art and writing are in both the youth and the elderly, and they tie us together as the strong community that we are!”
Written and artwork submissions are accepted year-round. The guidelines for submissions include fiction and non-fiction up to 10 pages, poetry up to five poems, art and photography 300 dpi, saved as JPEG. Written work must be submitted as a Word document. Include a 50-100 word biography along with submissions.
Submissions or questions can be sent to Ruidoso.ridgelinereview@enmu.edu. Check out the Ridgeline Review website at ruidoso.enmu.edu/ridgeline-review and on Instagram and Facebook @ridgelinereview
RUIDOSO CONVENTION CENTER
New Stucco & Color Palette Coming Soon!
The Ruidoso Convention Center is undergoing a much-needed exterior upgrade, enhancing its appearance to welcome upcoming conferences, trainings, and community events. The renovation focuses on patching damaged stucco and applying a fresh coat of paint in new colors.
This update is a broader effort to maintain the convention center and its ongoing commitment to provide an attractive, well-maintained space for all who visit.
No major closures were required, and the convention center continues to operate normally. The project will be complete in September.
KEEP WILDLIFE WILD! KEEP WILDLIFE WILD!
Feeding wildlife is banned in the Village (bird feeders excluded) Citations will be issued $500 fine will be imposed
• Full Sprint Triathlon (8/16)
• Sprint Distance Triathlon (8/16)
• 10K (8/17)
• Kid’s Sprint (8/17)
• Under a Mountain Sky Concert Series with Dallas Burrows (8/15)
August 15-17, 2025
• XTERRA World Championship Kick-off Concert with Phil Hamilton (8/16)
Mark your calendars and plan to come enjoy all of the XTERRA events!
