Mayor Lynn Crawford’s Update
This month, Mayor Lynn Crawford expresses deep gratitude for the community's resilience in the aftermath of recent wildfires and floods. He highlights steady recovery progress, including efforts to secure funding for infrastructure repairs, temporary housing, and business support. A county recovery task force has been formed to guide long-term restoration, while resources like financial aid and mental health support remain available for those in need.

Mayor Crawford also acknowledges the New Mexico Tourism Department's support, including $125,000 in cooperative advertising to help revive local tourism. As the community approaches the holiday season, he encourages residents to cherish their families and neighbors, fostering kindness and unity. Additionally, "Mondays with the Mayor" provides a platform for questions and updates every Monday from 8:00-10:00 AM on 1490 AM.

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Village Council Update

At the October 8, 2024, Village Council meeting, key actions included the renewal of the contract with Windstream Communications for broadband expansion, approval of task orders for the Upper Sudderth Revitalization Project and storm drain infrastructure surveying, and agreements for watershed projects with various engineering firms. Additionally, Ordinance 2024-06 was passed, granting Tularosa Telecommunications a non-exclusive franchise to operate within the Village. The next council meeting is scheduled for November 12, 2024, at 1:00 PM.

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Top 10 Capital Projects

Ruidoso's Infrastructure Capital Investment Plan (ICIP) lists ten capital projects, including workforce housing, bridge replacements, street and drainage improvements, sewer upgrades, Upper Canyon renovations, tree removal, watershed improvements, damage repairs, and Rio Ruidoso restoration. The projects aim to enhance infrastructure, safety, and sustainability, with top priorities set for the upcoming legislative session.

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Wingfield Heritage House Museum Opens to the Public

The Wingfield Heritage House Museum officially opened on October 17, drawing hundreds of guests, including descendants of the original families—Wingfield, Robinson, and Estes—some traveling from as far as Denver and Georgia.

The event began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on the front steps, followed by an open house where guests toured the exhibits, visited the gift shop, and enjoyed food. Live music by Phil Hamilton and brews from Downshift Brewery added to the festivities, and the Ruidoso Fire Department displayed their 1951 firetruck.

The Ruidoso Cultural and Natural History Committee thanks the Chamber of Commerce, Ruidoso Valley Greeters, Parks and Recreation Department, and Eddie Ryan for their support in making the event a success.

The museum is now open Wednesday through Saturday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, at 2813 Sudderth Drive. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors (65+), and free for children 16 and under.

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Parks and Recreation Update

Get ready to hit the ice as Ruidoso's seasonal ice rink returns to Wingfield Park on November 29, 2024!

Open weekdays from 5:00-8:00 PM and weekends from 11:00 AM-8:00 PM, this winter favorite transforms the park into a festive wonderland for skaters of all ages.

Enjoy a spacious ice surface, rental skates, and a cozy warming area perfect for family fun.

Don’t miss out on this beloved Village tradition—mark your calendars and join the opening day celebration!

Stay updated with Parks & Recreation on social media for all the latest events and activities.

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Ruidoso Schools Set a New Standard for Bilingual Excellence with Dual Language Program

The Ruidoso Municipal School District is advancing bilingual education through its Dual Language Spanish/English Program, designed to prepare students for success in a globalized world. Spanning kindergarten through high school, the program integrates rigorous academics with bilingual instruction, enabling students to achieve proficiency in both English and Spanish. Graduates may earn a distinguished bilingual seal, showcasing their language skills.

With growing demand and a waiting list at the kindergarten level, the program has expanded to include one class per grade, and two for 5th grade. Monthly parent nights and cultural celebrations, such as Hispanic Heritage Month, promote community involvement and bilingualism. Under the leadership of Dr. Melvina Edmister, the district’s Bilingual Director, the program emphasizes academic excellence, cultural pride, and strong family-school partnerships, setting a new benchmark for bilingual education in New Mexico.

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Fireplace Safety

As winter sets in, many families enjoy the warmth and comfort of fireplaces. The glow of a fire creates a cozy atmosphere, but fireplaces also pose safety risks. Chimney fires can result from creosote buildup, and improper ventilation increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Burns and house fires are also concerns. Being aware of these hazards is crucial for keeping your home safe and secure this winter.

Essential Safety Tips

1. Regular Maintenance: Schedule annual inspections and cleanings with a professional chimney sweep to ensure that your chimney is free from blockages and creosote buildup.

2. Proper Fuel Usage: Only burn seasoned wood, which is dried and has lower moisture content. Avoid burning treated wood, plastic, or other materials that can release harmful toxins into your home.

3. Installation of Safety Equipment: Equip homes with functioning smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Test them regularly and replace batteries at least once a year.

4. Safe Operation Practices: Keep flammable materials—such as blankets, paper, and decorations—atleast three feet away from the fireplace. Never leave a fire unattended, especially if children or pets are nearby.

5. Educate Family Members: Teach children the dangers of fire and establish clear rules regarding its use.

In the event of a chimney fire or other emergency, it is crucial to act quickly and calmly and call 911 immediately.

Furr Ball 2024: "No Place Like a Home"

Join the Humane Society of Lincoln County on November 15, 5:00-9:00 PM at Alto Lakes Golf and Country Club for a night of dinner, music, and live/silent auctions. Dress up in character (optional) and enjoy our photo booth.

Proceeds support the Community Foundation of Lincoln County, aiding fire and flood victims. Pre-register at hslcnm.org to buy tickets, sponsor tables, or bid on auction items.

How to Help:

• Donate a gift card, certificate, or item for the silent auction.

• Sponsor a table: 8 seats for $1,100, 10 seats for $1,300 (both include 2 wine bottles).

Payment:
Checks payable to HSLC ("Community Foundation" or "Humane") and mailed to HSLC, P.O. Box 2832, Ruidoso, NM 88355. For item donations, contact Magda at 575-808-8424.

Ruidoso Strong!

Living in rural communities like Ruidoso and Lincoln County comes with unique challenges, especially in healthcare. With about 19% of Americans residing in rural areas, access to quality healthcare plays a crucial role in making this lifestyle choice viable. On November 21, 2024, we will celebrate National Rural Healthcare Day, highlighting these challenges and efforts to overcome them.

Lincoln County faces obstacles in recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals. However, partnerships with ENMU-Ruidoso to support a local nursing program, along with scholarships provided by LCMC and the Medical Center Auxiliary, aim to encourage local graduates to pursue healthcare careers and return home to serve the community. LCMC is committed to expanding access to care, operating clinics in Carrizozo, Corona, Capitan, and Hondo, and continuously exploring new opportunities to meet the needs of rural residents.

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Winter Weather Safety Tips

1. Prepare Your Vehicle:

   • Keep the gas tank and fluids full.

   • Ensure headlights, tires, and the battery are in good condition.

   • Carry a winter survival kit with a flashlight, hand warmers, blankets, first aid supplies, high-energy snacks, non-perishable food, bottled water, a shovel, a scraper, and battery booster cables.

2. Plan Ahead:

   • Check road conditions and choose the safest route.

   • Allow extra time for delays, and be patient.

   • Ensure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained.

3. Drive Safely:

   • Slow down on snow and ice to improve reaction time and vehicle control.

   • Avoid using cruise control on slippery or icy roads to maintain better control if tires skid.

For current road advisories, visit Village of Ruidoso or tune in to KRUI 1490 AM.

ENMU-Ruidoso Wins National Award for Campus Food Security Initiative

Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) - Ruidoso Branch recently won the National Community Engagement Award from the Rural Community College Alliance for its Ruidoso Campus Connections program. The initiative addresses food security on campus through education, resource coordination, partnerships, and meal preparation spaces.

Led by Nicole DeLorenzo and Robin DeMott, the program offers weekly classes on affordable nutrition, provides ingredients via food distributions, and connects students with local resources. Efforts also include a campus hunger task force and collaborations with community groups like food pantries and gardens.

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AspenFest Recap & Christmas Jubilee Preview

Ruidoso's AspenFest parade last month celebrated "Heroes of Ruidoso," featuring floats, marching bands, and community groups. Grand Marshal Logan Fleharty, who helped raise $200,000 for fire relief, led the parade, along with service animal Foxy.

Parade Winners:

• 1st Place: Lincoln County Medical Center

• 2nd Place: Ruidoso High School Garden Club

• Honorable Mention: Sierra Cinema

Christmas Jubilee: November 8-10
Join us at the Ruidoso Convention Center for holiday shopping, activities for kids, and visits from Smokey Bear and local heroes. Proceeds support local charities, with nearly $500,000 donated over 35 years.

Support Local
Shop local and invest in Ruidoso's future. For Chamber membership info, call 575-257-7395.

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RMA Update

As fall arrives, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us for the Midtown Halloween Event and our first Trunk or Treat. The turnout and community spirit were truly impressive, making the event a memorable success. We are already looking forward to planning next year's festivities!

A special thank you goes to our sponsors, including Rusty Balls Speed Shop, The Quarters, Indulgence, Happy Hiker, LaGrone Funeral Chapel, The Ruidoso Chamber of Commerce, and Ruidoso Parks and Recreation, whose contributions helped make the event possible. We aim to continue the Trunk or Treat tradition, bringing together businesses from across the Village and fostering community engagement.

Additionally, the new digital billboard at the corner of Country Club Dr and Sudderth Dr is now live, providing local businesses a platform for promotions and event announcements. Come visit Midtown this season, relax on a patio, and enjoy time with family and friends.

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