As the warm days of summer end, I want to take a moment to reflect on the past couple of months and look ahead to the fall season.
I know this summer has been challenging for our community. We’ve dealt with multiple wildfires and continuing flash flooding. I want to commend all of you for your resilience, cooperation, and community spirit during these difficult times. Your efforts to look out for your neighbors and find ways to contribute to this community have made a real difference and reflect the strong bonds that unite our Village. We recently attended the New Mexico Municipal League Annual Conference, and believe me when I tell you that this entire state is behind us and rooting for us.
As we move into fall, we have several major areas that we will address:
1. Bridge Repair: We will continue to work with all entities to ensure that our damaged bridges are repaired as soon as possible. The VOR Streets Department has done amazing work getting bridges, including Grindstone Canyon and McDaniel, cleaned and cleared so that they are passable to residents.
2. Road Repair: You will see our Street crews working to make necessary repairs to roads and streets that have been damaged during the flood events. This includes working with NMDOT as well as the National Guard.
3. Debris Removal: The Private Property Debris Removal (PPDR) program is in full swing. You have seen and will continue to see lots and properties that were damaged cleared and prepped for rebuilding. This is a program that is provided by the state, and there is still plenty of time to take advantage of it if you haven’t already.
We know we have a long road to recovery ahead of us, but I have no doubt that this community will continue to work together to support each other as we tackle the obstacles ahead. It won’t happen as quickly as any of us would like, but it will happen. We need everyone to engage in a positive way and pitch in where you can to keep us moving forward.
I want to once again thank the Village employees that continue to work around-the-clock. Many of them are not only doing their normal jobs, but they have taken on additional roles and responsibilities as part of our response to this incident. Please know that I appreciate you, and this community appreciates you!
Thank you once again for your continued support and engagement. It’s an honor to serve as your mayor, and I look forward to the work we’ll do together in the months ahead. Remember to tune in to 1490 KRUI for Mondays with the Mayor every Monday morning from 8:00 – 10:00 AM. Call in and let us know if you have any questions that we can answer.
Mayor Lynn Crawford
Mayor Lynn Crawford
VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETINGS
Recent Actions
August 12, 2024, Village Council Meeting Highlights:
» Approval of Resolution 2024-37, for Support and Commitment to the Funding of the 2024-2025 New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) Cooperative (COOP) Funding Program.
» Approval of Resolution 2024-29, Allowing the Use of Recreational Vehicles as Temporary Housing.
» Approval of Agreement between the Village of Ruidoso and the Humane Society of Lincoln County for the Safe and Humane Control of Animals and the Protection of the Citizens of the Village of Ruidoso.
» Approval of Agreement with New Mexico Department of Transportation for Supply of Salt for Snow and Ice Removal on New Mexico Highway 48.
Next Council Meeting: Tuesday, September 10, 2024 @ 1:00 PM – Village Hall Council Chambers
OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF INSURANCE
Emergency Order Provides Enhanced Insurance Protections for Residents Impacted by Wildfires
Pursuant to Governor Lujan Grisham’s Executive Order in response to the devastating Salt Fire and South Fork Fire that impacted Lincoln County and the Mescalero Apache Reservation, the New Mexico Office of Superintendent of Insurance (OSI) issued an Emergency Order to provide enhanced insurance protections and support for policyholders in fire-impacted areas for 120 days after the start of the fires (October 15, 2024).
This Order requires property insurers, including those offering homeowners and automobile policies, to provide grace periods for premium payment and claims submission, waive deductibles, postpone cancellations and nonrenewals, and suspend late payment fees.
If customers are told that they are being non-renewed or canceled, the Order prevents this. The insurance companies are required to renew costomer’s policies for another year.
The OSI stands ready to serve New Mexicans and is available to help resolve insurance issues. The agency’s emergency hotline number for the Salt Fire and South Fork Fire is 1-833-485-1336.
Pictured from left to right: Greg Cory, Gary Jackson, Darren Hooker, Lynn Crawford, Mayor Pro Tem Rifle Salas, Susan Lutterman, Joe Eby
NEW MEXICO LEGISLATURE ALLOCATES
$100 MILLION FOR FIRE AND FLOOD RECOVERY
Special Session Update
After a one-day special session of the NM Legislature, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed House Bill 1 which appropriates $100 million to support recovery efforts following the South Fork and Salt fires, as well as ongoing flooding.
“The legislature’s failure to prioritize public safety for New Mexicans during the special session is deeply disappointing,” said Governor Lujan Grisham. “However, I am relieved that we managed to secure aid for critical recovery efforts in communities damaged by fire and flooding.”
The $100 million in funding will be allocated as follows:
» $10 million for the Mescalero Apache Tribal government to utilize for damages or losses.
» $10 million for the Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department to utilize for damages from fires, flooding and debris flow, and for mitigation efforts in the impacted areas.
» $10 million for the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to assist residents as they apply for assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and submit insurance claims.
» $70 million for zero-interest reimbursable loans to local governments to kick-start funding for public infrastructure projects that have been approved for federal public assistance.
WATER DISTRIBUTION AND SEWER COLLECTIONS
Fats, Oils, and Grease Inspection Program
Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) can cause blockages and overflows in the sewer collection system. Cooking grease is one of the primary causes of sewer line blockages, leading to overflows from manholes or backups. These overflows are costly to clean up, pose potential property damage, and can result in significant environmental, health, and safety risks.
The Village of Ruidoso has implemented a FOG inspection program for food service establishments. This program includes periodic inspections to ensure compliance with the VOR sewer ordinance and to collect records of routine maintenance of grease traps.
Residents can help maintain our sewer system by properly disposing of cooking oil and grease.
Here is how you can help:
» Do not dump cooking oil, fat, or grease into the kitchen sink or toilet.
» Do not use hot water and soap to wash grease down the drain, as it will cool and harden in your pipes or in the sewer line.
» Do place cooked oil and meat fats in a sealed container and discard small quantities in your garbage.
» Do use paper towels to wipe residual grease or oil off dishes, pots, and pans before washing them.
Following these simple steps can help prevent unnecessary service disruptions to residences and businesses.
67TH ANNUAL NEW MEXICO MUNICIPAL LEAGUE CONFERENCE
Clovis Takes the Stage
The 67th Annual New Mexico Municipal League Conference was held August 13-16 in Clovis, NM. Some highlights of the conference program included:
2025 New Mexico Municipal League Annual Conference:
The Village of Ruidoso has been awarded the 2025 New Mexico Municipal League Annual Conference. Attendees from all over the state will be coming together to attend workshops, meet with subsection groups, conduct League business, network, and of course, have fun! The 2025 NMML Annual Conference will be held Tuesday, September 9-12, 2025, at the Ruidoso Convention Center.
Community Project: At each annual conference, the NMML chooses a project in the host community to support. This year, they supported the Salvation Army Social Services incredible contribution to the Clovis community. Municipal leaders from around the state volunteered their time to the following projects:
» Prepared bags of food for Clovis citizens that come in on pantry distribution days
» Sorted toys and clothes for Christmas outreach
» Organized the craft/birthday room
» Helped with painting and yard work at the Salvation Army building
Attendees were treated to a keynote address on Memory Power from Paul Mellor who wowed the crowd with his ability to recall numbers and words. In addition, Village leaders attended workshops on long term planning/near-term action for water security and supporting housing development in local communities. Devin Henderson brought the conference to a close with his presentation of Something Greater is Always Possible.
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
Lieutenant Governor Howie Morales stopped by the Ruidoso booth and snapped a picture with VOR employees Matthew Baird and Eddie Ryan
GO WARRIORS! Fall Sports Schedule
RUIDOSO MUNICIPAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
The Ruidoso Municipal School District Board of Education, in collaboration with the district, has finalized our goals and guardrails for the next three years. Our primary focus will be on enhancing student proficiency in reading and math, with student engagement at the forefront of our initiatives.
We extend our sincere thanks to the Ruidoso community for actively taking part in our strategic planning sessions. Your input was invaluable in identifying areas of growth and shaping the direction of our district goals. The insights gathered played a crucial role in this process, and we are eager to embark on a school year dedicated to improving student outcomes.
We would also like to express our deepest gratitude to the surrounding communities and organizations for their generous contributions of backpacks and essential school supplies for all Ruidoso students. Your kindness has made a significant impact, helping us start the school year with positivity and a strong sense of collaboration.
LINCOLN COUNTY MEDICIAL CENTER
From the Desk of the Chief Executive - Todd Oberheu
New Providers, New Construction to Serve Our Community
Lincoln County Medical Center (LCMC) is excited to welcome two new providers to our White Mountain Medical Complex in Ruidoso.
Dr. Alexandra Drymon, general surgeon, is trained in endoscopic and laparoscopic surgery. She recently completed her residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center – Horizon, where she served as Chief Resident. She received her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Drymon, along with Dr. Camilo Rosales, will allow us to increase the number of surgeries and after-hour coverage that we can provide for our patients.
Dr. Megan Belcher, family medicine, will provide a full spectrum of primary care to patients of all ages. Dr. Belcher is board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and received her Doctor in Osteopathic Medicine degree from the University of North Texas Health Science Center. She has practiced in the Houston, Texas area since 2013.
In addition to new providers, LCMC began construction on our new Women’s Health Center in July and construction is expected to be completed next month. This new facility will be the new home for Dr. Keri Rath and Dr. Patricia Combs, who offer comprehensive women’s healthcare, including obstetrics. In addition, Perinatal Associates of New Mexico will relocate to this facility. This new facility is on the hospital campus across the street from Lincoln County EMS in the Rehabilitation Services building.
To arrange an appointment with any of these providers, please call (575) 630-8250.
Dr. Alexandra Drymon
Dr. Megan Belcher
UTILITIES DEPARTMENT
The Village of Ruidoso offers water customers access to EyeOnWater software, a consumer-engaged software that goes beyond traditional billing statements to connect utility water usage and their customers. The implementation of EyeOnWater has had an incredibly positive impact on property owners. This software program enables utility customers to access and view their usage profile through easy-to-understand consumption graphs and provides a simple method to establish alerts. It is a perfect tool for those who winter elsewhere. The software is straightforward to set up and use on a computer or smartphone, literally placing consumer data in the utility customers’ hands.
To sign up, visit EyeOnWater.com/signup to create your online account. A service zip code and billing account number are required at sign-up. Instructions are available on the VOR website (Ruidoso-NM.gov), or by calling Village Hall at (575) 258-4343.
Fall EVENTS
Check out our line-up of great events for fall! Please visit DiscoverRuidoso.com for additional events and details.
WEEKLY COMMUNITY EVENTS
THURSDAY:
• Veterans Coffee and Company, 615 Sudderth Drive, Suite 1
• Open Mic Night, Downshift Hidden Tap
SATURDAY:
• Midtown Market, 100 Country Club Drive
SUNDAY:
• Alto Farmer’s & Craft Market, Enchanted Vine Barn
SEPTEMBER 1:
• End of Summer Bash, Inn of the Mountain Gods Michael Paul, Downshift Hidden Tap
SEPTEMBER 2:
• All American Futurity, Relocated to The Downs in Albuquerque
SEPTEMBER 5:
• Beaux Jenkins, Downshift Riverside
SEPTEMBER 6-8:
• Low Class Car Show, Ruidoso Convention Center
SEPTEMBER 6:
• Dave Millsap and CW Ayon, Downshift Riverside
SEPTEMBER 7:
• Moksi, Lost Hiker Brewery
• Josh Glenn Experiment, Downshift Hidden Tap
• The Graham Brothers, No Scum Allowed Saloon
• C10 Truck Show, Wingfield Park
• Cornhole Contest, No Scum Allowed Saloon
SEPTEMBER 10:
• Ruidoso Writers Group, Ruidoso Public Library
SEPTEMBER 13:
• Eurydice, Wingfield Park
• SPiVEY and Dave Millsap, Downshift Riverside
SEPTEMBER 14:
• Eurydice, Wingfield Park
• CW Ayon, Downshift Riverside
• Ceekay Jones, Downshift Hidden Tap
SEPTEMBER 15:
• Eurydice, Wingfield Park
SEPTEMBER 18:
• Moonlight Hike, White Sands National Park
• Tyler Jones & Delaney Davis, Downshift Riverside
SEPTEMBER 19:
• Bri Bagwell, Downshift Riverside
SEPTEMBER 21-22:
• Kite Festival, White Mountain Recreation Complex
SEPTEMBER 21:
• Brews, Blues, and BBQ, Inn of the Mountain Gods
• Whiplash, No Scum Allowed Saloon
SEPTEMBER 23:
• Smokey’s Community Garden, Smokey Bear Ranger Station
SEPTEMBER 24:
• Ruidoso Writers Group, Ruidoso Public Library
SEPTEMBER 27:
• DOWN, Inn of the Mountain Gods
SEPTEMBER 28:
• Ruidoso Oktoberfest, Downshift Riverside
• Clay Walker, Inn of the Mountain Gods
TUESDAY:
• Baby & Me at 10:30 AM
WEDNESDAY:
• Storytime at 10:30 AM
• Teen Scene at 3:30 PM
OCTOBER 4:
• Dave Millsap and Jennings & Keller, Downshift Riverside
• Rockabilly Strangers, Downshift Hidden Tap
OCTOBER 5:
• AspenFest, Wingfield Park
OCTOBER 7:
• Smokey’s Community Garden, Smokey Bear Ranger Station
OCTOBER 8:
• Ruidoso Writers Group, Ruidoso Public Library
OCTOBER 11-13:
• New Mexico 4x4 Rally, Ruidoso Convention Center
OCTOBER 16:
• Moonlight Hike, White Sands National Park
OCTOBER 19:
• Benny Bassett, Downshift Riverside
OCTOBER 22:
• Ruidoso Writers Group, Ruidoso Public Library
OCTOBER 25:
• Rocky Horror Picture Show, Downshift Riverside
• Chinese Acrobats of Hebei, Inn of the Mountain Gods
OCTOBER 26:
• Rocky Horror Picture Show, Downshift Riverside; Alex Teller, Downshift Hidden Tap
www.discoverruidoso.com/event-submission-form
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
Regional Waste Water Treatment Plant (RWWTP) 575-378-8417
Senior Center 575-257-4565
Solid Waste 575-257-1502
Street Works 575-257-6023
Water Distribution and Sewer Collections 575-257-2386
Water Production 575-257-5525
Water Rights/Watershed (RJU) 575-258-6913
ENMU-RUIDOSO
From the Desk of President Ryan Trosper
www.Ruidoso-NM.gov
ENMU-Ruidoso Education Department Chair and Professor of Education Cleo Mow was recently selected to present at the 2024 Rural Community College Alliance (RCCA) National Conference September 18-20 at SUNY-Adirondack Community College in Queensbury, NY The title of her presentation is “Marching Toward Excellence: (ECED) Bootcamp Adventures.”
Cleo Mow, of Nogal, is an educator dedicated to student success and instructional innovation. She has a bachelor’s and a master’s degree and specializes in curriculum instruction. Mow advises Phi Theta Kappa, the local chapter of the ENMU-Ruidoso honor society, and advocates for early childhood education through memberships in the New Mexico Early Childhood Task Force (NMECHTF), National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), and the New Mexico Chapter of National Association for the Education of Young Children (MAEYC), as well as the local Partners in Early Childhood Education (PIECE) Coalition of Lincoln County. As Education Department Chair and Professor, her leadership is collaborative and student-centered, shaping education for over 20 years.
The Early Childhood Education Bootcamps are designed to meet the needs of students in the Child Development Certificate accelerated program, offering a hybrid model that combines online learning with hands-on experiences. These courses cater to the diverse student population from across the state, providing comprehensive training in essential areas of early childhood education within a condensed timeframe while providing the essentials needed to obtain a position in an early HeadStart or daycare center.
Cleo Mow
RUIDOSO MIDTOWN ASSOCIATION
From the Desk of Executive Director Stephanie Garcia
After a period of recovery, we are starting to see activity around the Village pick back up. It has been nice to once again see people bustling in and out of the shops in the Midtown district. That is not to say that we do not have tough times ahead, but just as we have come together during other trying times, this Village will stand together to rebuild. There have been so many people in town that have stepped up and given back in some big ways, and we continue to see more people support Ruidoso by planning events and benefits to give back to those in need. Be on the lookout for those events on our new Instagram page, @midtown_ruidoso!
RMA is happy to announce that we have three new board members from in and out of the district that we know will bring innovative ideas to our organization. We would like to welcome Josh Richardson (Rusty Balls Speed Shop), Ray Griego (Ranchers) and Amanda Foster (Happy Hiker). We know that the coming years will bring more exciting happenings. There already are some fresh ideas brewing for our annual Midtown Halloween that will help businesses with candy and bring more pumpkins than last year!
In this continued time of need in the Village, RMA remains committed to being an organization that people can rely on to work as a liaison, a sounding board for ideas, and a mechanism that brings people together in Midtown. Always feel free to reach out if you have any concerns or questions! ruidosomidtownassociation@gmail.com
RUIDOSO VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
From the Desk of Executive Director Deborah Douds
As the summer ends, we are grateful for how our community has come together following the recent fires and floods. So many people and organizations have donated their time and money in support of Ruidoso, Ruidoso Downs, Mescalero, and Lincoln County. Remember to continue to shop locally and support local restaurants.
In July, we held the 53rd Annual Ruidoso Art Festival. The sense of community felt during this event was radiating from the artists and participants here to show their support for Ruidoso. We appreciate everyone that joined us for this great event.
53rd Annual Ruidoso Art Festival
September 21-22, 2024 • 10 AM - 4 PM
White Mountain Sports Complex
Ruidoso's very own kite festival, including professional kite flyers, food vendors, and kite displays. Come out and fly your own kite or build your own in our kite assembly booth. FREE to attend! Fun for all ages.
