July is shaping up to be one of the most exciting months our community has seen in years, and I want to make sure every resident and visitor has a chance to be part of it. From a world-class athletic event to a brand-new way to fly into our mountain home, Ruidoso is on the move. At the same time, summer monsoon season is here, and I want to make sure everyone knows how to stay safe when storms roll in.
On July 11 and 12, Ruidoso takes center stage as the host of IRONMAN 70.3 Ruidoso, and I could not be more proud of what our community has accomplished to make this event a reality. I am thrilled to share that this race is completely sold-out. meaning hundreds of athletes and their families, friends, and supporters will be filling our streets, restaurants, and hotels all weekend long. That is a tremendous vote of confidence in Ruidoso as a premier event destination, and it speaks volumes about the resilience and spirit of this community.
Whether you are a triathlon fan or just looking for something spectacular to do this weekend, I encourage everyone to get out and cheer on these incredible athletes. Watching competitors push their limits through our beautiful mountain landscape is something you will not soon forget. And when you are done cheering, head over to the IRONMAN Athlete’s Village at White Mountain Sports Complex. The Village is open to the public and is a fantastic familyfriendly scene with food, vendors, and the electrifying energy of race weekend.
We have been working hard to make Ruidoso more accessible, and I am delighted to announce that Contour Airlines is now operating scheduled service between Sierra Blanca Regional Airport and Denver International Airport. This is a gamechanger for our community. For years, one of the biggest hurdles for visitors coming to Ruidoso has been the drive. Now, travelers from Denver and beyond can simply book a flight and be in our mountains in no time at all. For our residents, that same connection means easier travel to one of the nation’s major hub airports. This new air service is great for tourism, great for business, and great for the quality of life right here at home. I am grateful to Contour Airlines and the VOR team for making this happen, and I encourage everyone to spread the word.
With all the excitement of July, I also want to take a moment to talk about something serious: we are officially in monsoon season, and it is critical that everyone in Ruidoso, whether you are a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, understands how quickly conditions can change in our mountain environment.
When it starts to rain, please be mindful of your surroundings. Move to high ground and stay there. Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or streams. Even a small amount of fast-moving water can be deadly. Flash flooding can develop with very little warning, especially in areas still affected by burn scars from previous wildfires.
I also want to remind everyone about an important upgrade to our Outdoor Warning System (OWS). In the past, our OWS sirens were used exclusively for fire evacuation alerts. That has changed. The system has been expanded and will now be activated for fires, evacuations, and flood events. If you hear the OWS, take it seriously, seek information immediately through official Village channels, and follow all instructions from emergency personnel. This expanded capability is an important step forward in keeping our community safe, and I am proud we have it in place heading into this monsoon season.
July is a month to celebrate everything that makes Ruidoso special. Enjoy the All American Tailgate Party and Drone Show, and enjoy our beautiful mountain summer. Don’t forget to tune-in to Mondays with the Mayor every Monday from 8:00-10:00 AM on KRUI 99.1 FM/1490 AM.
And please, look out for one another. That is what makes us the community we are.
Mayor Lynn Crawford
Mayor Lynn Crawford
VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETINGS
Recent Actions
June 9, 2026, Village Council Meeting Highlights:
» Presentation of Retirement Plaque to Salvador Beltran, School Resource Officer, for his Service to the Village of Ruidoso from June 2010 through June 2026.
» Presentation of Retirement Plaque to Jaime Urban, Police Lieutenant, for his Service to the Village of Ruidoso from September 2007 through June 2026.
» Approval of Resolution 2026-102, a Resolution Allowing the Use of Recreational Vehicles as Temporary Housing; and Providing for the Repeal of Resolution 2024-29, Approved by the Governing Body on the 29th Day of July 2024.
» Approval of Joint Powers Agreement between the Village of Ruidoso and the Board of Education for the Ruidoso Municipal School District Regarding Placement of a School Resource Officer at Ruidoso Schools.
» Approval of Adoption of Ordinance 2026-10, an Ordinance Amending the Village of Ruidoso Municipal Code of Ordinances Chapter 54, Land Use; Article II-Land Development Code; Division 4-Zoning Districts; Section 54-72 – Overlay Zones; and Appendix A—Fees, Fines, and Penalties. (Short Term Rentals)
» Approval of Utility Cooperative Agreement between the Village of Ruidoso and New Mexico Department of Transportation for Construction of Major Drainage Improvements and Relocation of Water Line.
Next Council Meeting: Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 1:00 PM in Council Chambers at Village Hall
RUIDOSO PUBLIC LIBRARY
Summer Reading Program is a Success!
The Ruidoso Public Library had a great Summer Reading Program for both adults and children. The theme for this summer was Unearth a Story, and both programs ran through the month of June. For the Adult Program, three special events were held, including Snapshots in Time presented by Stephanie Long, the Zuhl Museum Fossil and Trunk Exhibit presented by Tiffany Santos, and The Jornada Research Institute Lecture by Dave Greenwald. Adults were given reading logs and a list of books that included the program subject matter. The logs were turned in at the end of the program, and the top three readers received prizes.
The Summer Reading Program for Youth Services also featured special programs, including The Lotta Love Petting Zoo, children’s musician Andy Mason, and Megan Kelly with her Rocky Mountain Puppets. Each week included a Baby and Me Program, Storytime, Children’s Program, and Teen Program. Programs of note included the Dino Jungle Escape Room, The Quiz Show, Dungeons and Dinos, The Cookie Dig, and the Lost Facility Teen Escape Room. Children got to adopt a dinosaur, color bones for the Big T. Rex Dino Wall, and make their own cave carvings on the cave wall. Grand prizes were given to the top reader in four different age categories, and chances for weekly treasures along with drawings for bigger prizes were given to program participants. Youth Services will be taking a programming break for most of July, but will return with several special programs before school starts.
Special thanks go to The Friends of the Ruidoso Public Library and the sponsors for making these programs possible. Many thanks are also extended to the special event presenters and all those who participated in this year’s Unearth a Story program. The library looks forward to seeing the community return for another summer of reading next year.
Pictured from left to right: Adam Sanchez, Greg Cory, Darren Hooker, Mayor Lynn Crawford, Mayor Pro Tem Rifle Salas, Susan Lutterman, and Everett Brophy
SPECIAL EVENTS
IRONMAN 70.3 Ruidoso Is Here!
This summer, Ruidoso will step into the national spotlight in a way it never has before. For the first time in New Mexico history, IRONMAN will bring one of its world-renowned 70.3 races to the mountains of southern New Mexico, drawing athletes, families, and spectators from across the country to a village long known for cool pine forests, ski slopes, and quiet mountain mornings.
On July 11-12, 2026, competitors will arrive in Ruidoso to take on a course that promises to be every bit as challenging as it is scenic. Sitting at more than 6,000 feet above sea level, the race will not feel like a typical IRONMAN event. The altitude alone changes the entire experience.
The day begins at Grindstone Lake, where athletes will swim through calm mountain water as the sun rises over the surrounding peaks. From there, the bike course stretches across mountain roads and open landscapes that showcase the rugged beauty of Lincoln County. The race finishes with a run through the heart of Ruidoso, where locals and visitors are expected to line the streets and cheer competitors toward the finish line.
What makes Ruidoso stand out is exactly what many athletes are searching for. It is not a major city built around a sporting event. It is a mountain town with personality, history, and scenery that feels authentic. Competitors will spend the weekend surrounded by towering pines, cool mountain air, local restaurants, cabins, coffee shops, and the kind of atmosphere that makes people want to come back long after race weekend is over.
The economic impact is expected to be substantial. Hotels, restaurants, retailers, and local businesses throughout the area are preparing for what could become one of the largest endurance events ever hosted in the region. But beyond the numbers, many see the event as another sign of Ruidoso’s growing identity as an outdoor recreation destination.
Over the last several years, the Village has worked to build year-round tourism around adventure, recreation, and events that take advantage of the region’s natural landscape. IRONMAN introduces an entirely new audience to everything the area has to offer, from hiking and mountain biking to golf, fishing, live music, casinos, and the surrounding wilderness.
There is also something fitting about the timing. Ruidoso has always had the terrain, elevation, and scenery for a world-class endurance event. Now it finally has the opportunity to showcase them on an international stage. And if the early reaction from the triathlon community is any indication, athletes are already paying attention. Many are describing the course as one of the more scenic and physically demanding additions to the IRONMAN calendar in recent years.
By the time the final competitors cross the finish line, the event will likely leave behind more than medals and finish line photos. It will leave a lasting impression of a mountain town that challenged people, welcomed them, and showed them a side of New Mexico many have never experienced before.
Looking for live music in Ruidoso tonight?
FINANCE CORNER
LEVEL 2 FIRE RESTRICTIONS LEVEL 2 FIRE RESTRICTIONS
• No smoking outside
• No camp fires
• No fireworks
• No charcoal (gas & pellets OK)
• No Welding without a Permit
Utility Rate Adjustments – Effective July 2026
The Village of Ruidoso accounts for its utilities under enterprise (business activity) funds. This means that utility rates are set to ensure that sufficient revenue is generated to cover both operating and capital expenses. Until the adoption of the Utility Rate Analysis in June 2024, utility rates had not been increased since 2014.
Fortunately, the Village has benefited from supplemental funding mechanisms, such as the State Gross Receipts Tax (SGRT) and the General Obligation (GO) Bond cycling program, which have supported water infrastructure improvements. However, other utilities including sewer, solid waste, forestry, and wastewater do not have access to similar external funding sources for major upgrades and improvements.
In anticipation of continued growth in Ruidoso, the Utility Rate Analysis reviewed long-term master plans for infrastructure improvements and projected operation cost increases. Based on this analysis, a structured plan was adopted to gradually increase utility rates each year through Fiscal Year 2032. The annual increases range from 3% to 8%, depending on the specific utility. Additionally, these future projections assume a baseline of 40% grant funding to help offset infrastructure costs.
As part of the scheduled adjustments, utility rates will increase again in July 2026 (reflected in August billing cycles). The upcoming rate increases are as follows:
» Water: 12%
» Sewer: 8%
» Wastewater: 5%
» Solid Waste and Forestry: 30%
The over-arching purpose of the adjustments is to maintain and improve essential utility services for current and future residents. Utility rates can be found at www.ruidoso-nm.gov/water-rates.
WINGFIELD HERITAGE HOUSE MUSEUM
Happy 250th Birthday to The United States of America!
On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was officially adopted. The previous June, Virginia delegate Richard Henry Lee had presented a resolution to the Continental Congress stating “that these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown.” Rather than voting on the resolution immediately, Congress paused for three weeks to allow the drafting of a statement that would make the case for independence. The Declaration was drafted between June 11 and July 1, 1776, primarily by Thomas Jefferson, with contributions from John Adams and Benjamin Franklin. Deliberation on the document began July 2, 1776, and with some revisions, the Declaration was officially adopted on the July 4, 1776. Copies were printed and distributed on July 5, 1776.
This Semiquincentennial anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s history, celebrate its achievements, and examine the challenges it has faced over two and a half centuries. The Wingfield Heritage House Museum has been marking the occasion through the Moments in American History radio segment, which airs each Monday following Mondays with the Mayor on KRUI around 10:00AM. The museum also hosted a Colonial America Family Fun Day in June, and looks forward to unveiling the commemorative quilt being assembled by the Ruidosew quilters.
On Saturday, July 25, 2026, the museum will host “Boots & Brands: An Old West Family Day” from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM. The free event will feature crafts, games, and activities including a shooting gallery, Gold Rush panning activity, cattle brand creation, and leatherworking. No RSVP is required, and visitors are welcome to drop in any time during the event.
This summer, the museum is also debuting a new exhibit: “Lines Across the Land: Maps of Ruidoso and New Mexico.” The exhibit explores the region’s story through historic maps spanning more than 400 years, divided into four sections - Boundaries, Land, Transportation, and Ruidoso. Visitors have the opportunity to see places, events, and changes over time, as well as how perspective on the land is shaped by the mapmaker.
RUIDOSO MIDTOWN ASSOCIATION
From the Desk of RMA Executive Director Tim Duckworth
What a great month we had in Midtown in June! Lots of people turned out for the High Mountain Youth Project’s Bed Races and, somehow, I ended up in Celebrity Jail, and people paid to keep me in. I had some great company, including The Yeti. Thanks to everyone who supported this important group!
The Village of Ruidoso kicked off the Cool Summer Nights concert series on May 29, 2026. Stop in at one of your favorite Midtown restaurants to pick up some food and join the fun in Wingfield Park on Friday evenings from 6:00 – 8:00 PM. Everything moves under the pavilion when it rains, so don’t let a few raindrops deter you.
And now for my shout out to some new businesses who have joined the Midtown family:
» The BBQ Shack: Located in Bigfoot Plaza, this is a great place to stop in for some ribs, pulled pork, or sausage. All your BBQ favorites are easy to grab.
» Shop Around the Corner: This cool place, located on Center Street, has something for everyone so stop in and take a look.
As always, check us out on Instagram @midtown_ruidoso and online at ruidosomidtownassociation.com.
For year-round safety, be sure to sign up for weather alerts and Village of Ruidoso notifications at CallMeRuidoso.com. These updates are helpful for all seasons.
YourLibrary Your deliveredLibrary
Ruidoso Public Library offers Your Library
Delivered, a mobile delivery service that brings books and audiobooks to select community drop sites throughout Lincoln County.
Scan to sign up
VILLAGE OF RUIDOSO Contour Airlines Opens Nonstop Service Between Ruidoso and Denver
On June 25, 2026, the Contour Airlines inaugural flight marked the first commercial air service in Ruidoso, New Mexico, with new nonstop flights from Sierra Blanca Regional Airport (RUI) to Denver International Airport (DEN).
This landmark flight represents a transformative moment for Ruidoso, as the Village officially joins the nation’s commercial air network for the first time. For residents, businesses, and visitors, the introduction of scheduled air service brings unprecedented convenience, connectivity, and opportunity to the region.
With nonstop access to Denver, one of the country’s largest aviation hubs, travelers from Ruidoso will gain seamless connections to destinations across the United States and beyond. At the same time, the new service makes it easier than ever for visitors to experience Ruidoso’s renowned outdoor recreation, ski slopes, and vibrant arts and culture scene.
“Launching the first commercial air service in Ruidoso is an incredibly exciting milestone for Contour Airlines,” said Ben Munson, President of Contour Airlines. “This new nonstop route to Denver not only transforms how the community connects to the rest of the country but also opens the door for more visitors to experience everything Ruidoso has to offer. We are proud to partner with the Village on such a historic moment.”
Contour Airlines will operate the new service using its 30-seat regional jet, delivering a comfortable and reliable travel experience. Each flight offers extra legroom along with complimentary snacks and beverages.
RUIDOSO MUNICIPAL SCHOOLS
From the Desk of Superintendent Becca Ferguson
Ruidoso Municipal Schools is excited and ready to welcome students, families, and staff back for the 20262027 school year. Student orientations will be held on August 10, 2026, at each school prior to the start of classes, providing families an opportunity to meet teachers, learn about school procedures, and prepare for a successful year. Specific orientation times may be found on the district website and Facebook pages.
The first day of school for all Kindergarten through Grade 12 students is Tuesday, August 11, 2026. Ruidoso Municipal Schools’ 3-Year-Old Preschool and Pre-K programs will begin on Monday, August 17, 2026, following scheduled home visits with families prior to the start of school. Parents are encouraged to attend their child’s school orientation and ensure students are prepared for a successful start to the new school year.
The complete 2026-2027 School Calendar is available on the Ruidoso Municipal Schools website and includes important dates such as holidays, parent-teacher conferences, and school breaks.
School supply lists are now available and can be found at:
» Walmart
» Ruidoso Municipal Schools District website
» Ruidoso Municipal Schools Facebook pages
As students begin a new school year, Ruidoso Municipal Schools remains committed to providing every student with a high-quality educational experience focused on academic excellence, student growth, and future success.
The district looks forward to welcoming our students back to our classrooms and partnering with families for another outstanding year of learning.
Sierra Vista Primary Student Registration for 3-Year-Old, Pre-K, and Kindergarten
Give your child a great start at Sierra Vista Primary! Enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year is open, and only a limited number of spots remain in our 3-Year-Old PreK, 4-Year-Old PreK, and Kindergarten programs. Our engaging, full-day programs provide a safe, nurturing environment where young learners build friendships, develop foundational skills, and grow through hands-on learning experiences. Families can enroll Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM by bringing a birth certificate, proof of residency, and immunization records. Children must be 3- years-old by September 1, 2026, for 3-Year-Old PreK, 4-years-old by September 1, 2026, for 4-Year-Old PreK, and 5-years-old by September 1, 2026, for Kindergarten. Don’t wait - secure your child’s spot today and start their educational journey with us! For additional information regarding orientation schedules, school supply lists, registration, or the school calendar, please visit the Ruidoso Municipal Schools website or contact your child’s school directly.
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:
• Hootenanny, Lost Hiker Brewing Company (every other Sunday)
• Sunday Sounds, The Patina Lounge
• Sunday Market, Enchanted Vine Barn
• Karaoke Night, Win, Place and Show
MONDAY:
• Jacks Trivia Night, Jacks Backstage
TUESDAY:
• Open Mic & Karaoke Night, Jacks Backstage
• Movie Night, Monster House Dispensary
• Trivia Night, The Cellar Uncorked
• Music Bingo, Lost Hiker Brewing Company (every other Tuesday)
WEDNESDAY:
• Wet Your Whistle Wednesday, Lost Hiker Brewing Company
• Karaoke Night, The Quarters Bar & Grill
• Survivor Watch Party, Downshift Brewing Company Hidden Tap
THURSDAY:
• Club 49 Comedy, Inn of the Mountain Gods
• Open Mic Night with Cody Jones, Downshift Brewing Company Hidden Tap
• Thirstday Night Trivia, Lost Hiker Brewing Company
• Veterans Coffee & Company, 615 Sudderth Dr Ste 1
FRIDAY:
• Cool Summer Nights Music Series, Wingfield Park
SATURDAY:
• Midtown Market, Country Club Park
JULY 1-4:
• Smokey Bear Stampede, Lincoln County Fairgrounds
JULY 2:
• The Swing Dolls, Spencer Theater
JULY 3-5:
• Lincoln County Art Loop, Lincoln County
JULY 3:
• All American Tailgate & Drone Show, White Mountain Sports Complex
• Doso Dirtbags at Cool Summer Nights, Wingfield Park
JULY 4:
• Run White & Blue 5K and Color Fun Run, The Links Trail
• July 4th Celebration, Inn of The Mountain Gods
JULY 5:
• Alien Hike with Warren, Co. Road B007
JULY 7-11:
• Challenger International Soccer Camp, White Mountain Sports Complex
JULY 7-12:
• Grindstone Lake closed for IRONMAN 70.3 event
JULY 9:
• Time Turner History Book Club, Ruidoso Public Library
JULY 10:
• Red Light Cameras at Cool Summer Nights, Wingfield Park
JULY 11:
• Fort Stanton Live, Fort Stanton
JULY 11-12:
• IRONMAN 70.3 Race Weekend, White Mountain Sports Complex
• Frankie Moreno, Spencer Theater
JULY 13-17:
• Chess Wizards Camp, Ruidoso Public Library
JULY 16:
• Sip & Paint, Enchanted Vine
JULY 17:
• Blood Drive 10AM -2:30PM at 541 Sudderth Dr.
• Thomas Michael Riley at Cool Summer Nights, Wingfield Park
JULY 18:
• Tony Kishman’s Live & Let Die - The Music of Paul McCartney, Spencer Theater
• Sierra Club Guided Hike, Eagle Creek Trail at Alto Lake
JULY 20-24:
• Chess Camp, Ruidoso Public Library
JULY 24-26:
• Ruidoso Art & Wine Festival, Ruidoso Convention Center
JULY 24:
• Mammoth Cults at Cool Summer Nights, Wingfield Park
JULY 25:
• Going to Memphis: A Johnny Cash Tribute, Inn of the Mountain Gods
• William Beckmann, Spencer Theater
• Boots & Brands Old West Family Fun Day, Wingfield Heritage House Museum
JULY 29:
• White Sands Full Moon Night, White Sands National Park
JULY 31:
• Fort Stanton After Dark Flashlight Tour, Fort Stanton Historic Site
• Rachel Cole and Gus Miller at Cool Summer Nights, Wingfield Park
TUESDAY:
• Baby & Me at 10:30 AM
WEDNESDAY:
• Storytime at 10:30 AM
AUGUST 1:
• Celebrating Celine Dion, Spencer Theater
AUGUST 7-9:
• Alto Artists Tour, Alto, NM
AUGUST 7:
• CW Ayon at Cool Summer Nights, Wingfield Park
AUGUST 8:
• Sawyer Brown, Spencer Theater
• Closing Day, Ruidoso Municipal Pool
AUGUST 9:
• Pooch Party, Ruidoso Municipal Pool
AUGUST 13:
• Time Turner History Book Club, Ruidoso Public Library
AUGUST 14:
• Los Swamp Monsters at Cool Summer Nights, Wingfield Park
AUGUST 15:
• Sierra Club Guided Hike, South Fork Trail #19
• Ruidoso Hospice Foundation Annual Butterfly Release, White Mountain Subdivision Pavilion
• Annual Taste of the Spencer Fundraising Party, Spencer Theater
AUGUST 21:
• Buddy Vargas at Cool Summer Nights, Wingfield Park
AUGUST 21-23:
• Annual Ruidoso Antiques & Collectibles Show, Ruidoso Convention Center
AUGUST 22:
• Grindstone Trail Runs, Grindstone Park
• Pavlo, Spencer Theater
AUGUST 27:
• White Sands Full Moon Night, White Sands National Park
AUGUST 28:
• Fort Stanton After Dark Flashlight Tour, Fort Stanton Historic Site
WATER PRODUCTION
Water Trust Board Award
The Village of Ruidoso was recently awarded $42,420,000 in grant funding for 8 projects through the Water Trust Board. These projects involve design and/or construction for water and sewer infrastructure improvements throughout the Village.
» $11,000,000 awarded to the Town and Country Water System Improvements project. This consists of design and construction of waterlines in the Town and Country subdivision.
» $800,000 awarded to the Town and Country Sewer System Improvements project. This consists of the design of sewer line extensions in the Town and Country subdivision.
» $6,100,000 awarded to the Water Tank Rehabilitation Project. This project consists of the design and construction of three water tanks: Camelot 1, Camelot 2, and Alto West.
» $6,700,000 awarded to the Country Club Sewer System Improvements project. This project includes construction of sewer line replacements and extensions in the Country Club Heights and Indian Hills subdivision.
» $750,000 awarded to the Eagle Sewer Relocation project. This project includes design and construction for the relocation of the Eagle Drive sewer line to reduce damage from future floods.
» $5,900,000 awarded to the Pinecliff Sewer System Improvements project, which consists of construction of sewer line replacements and extensions in the Pinecliff subdivision.
» $950,000 awarded to the Ranier Sewer System Improvements project. This project includes construction of a sewer line along Ranier Road in the Alto Crest II subdivision.
» $10,220,000 awarded to the Upper Canyon Sewer Relocation project. This project encompasses design and construction for the relocation of the sewer main out of the Rio Ruidoso River and floodway.
In addition, $2,500,000 in emergency funding was awarded for reconstruction of the Upper Canyon surface diversion. The grant agreement for these additional funds was approved at the June 9, 2026, Regular Council Meeting.
The Village of Ruidoso would like to thank the Water Trust Board members and executive staff, as well as the New Mexico Finance Authority Board of Directors, for awarding the funds to complete these much-needed projects.
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
Community Center 575-257-4565
Water Distribution and Sewer
Collections 575-257-2386
Water Production 575-257-5525
Water Rights/Watershed (RJU) 575-258-6913
LINCOLN COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER
www.Ruidoso-NM.gov
From the Desk of The Chief Executive Todd Oberheu
When we think about helping children thrive, we often focus on physical health: making sure they have nutritious food, regular check-ups, and opportunities to stay active. But their mental health is just as important.
Today, more children and teens are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, and other behavioral health challenges than ever before. These struggles can affect their ability to learn, build relationships, and enjoy childhood. Left unaddressed, mental health concerns can have lasting impacts that extend into adulthood.
At Lincoln County Medical Center, we believe caring for children means caring for their whole health - both physical and emotional. That’s why we continue to expand access to behavioral health services, including the recent addition of board-certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr. Mary Nord Cook. She brings 33 years of experience specializing in the treatment of youth with a broad range of mental health concerns. Her expertise helps ensure local families can access specialized support closer to home, reducing barriers to care and helping young people receive treatment when they need it most.
“Adolescence is a time of tremendous growth and change, but it is also a time when mental health challenges often first emerge,” said Dr. Nord Cook. “Early detection and intervention can make a significant difference in a young person’s life. My goal is to help children and teens feel heard, understood, and equipped with the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges and build resilience.”
Parents and caregivers play a vital role in supporting children’s mental health. Creating opportunities for open conversations, recognizing when a child may be struggling, and seeking help early can make a meaningful difference.
Mental health challenges are common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of. By working together - as families, schools, healthcare providers, and community members - we can help ensure every child has the support they need to grow, heal, and reach their full potential.
RUIDOSO VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
From the Desk of Executive Director Deborah Douds
June has been another busy month for the Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce. We are working on the 55th Annual Ruidoso Art Festival which takes place July 24-26 at the Ruidoso Convention Center. With both new and returning artists, the festival showcases an impressive collection of original art from a wide range of mediums including sculpture, photography, oil, watercolor and acrylic paintings, woodwork, jewelry and much more. Come celebrate creativity with us at one of the Southwest’s premier juried fine art shows.
This past month we held a ribbon cutting for one of our newest, unique attractions. Lori Lytle Coleman and her husband Bruce operate the Spanish Stirrup Rock Shop and Gallery in Alto. The rocks they mine come in as raw materials and are cut, carved, shaped & polished into works of fine art; thus, their motto is ‘Where Earth Meets Art’. Every piece is unique and one of a kind. They are located at 156 Hill Country Road in Alto and invite you to come browse in their rock shop and gallery Thursday through Sunday.
We would like to congratulate Volunteer Coordinator Judy Monroe who oversees the Bookshoppe at the Ruidoso Public Library. Judy was recently honored as the recipient of the Champion of Service Award. This prestigious award is conferred by Ruidoso Valley Greeters for someone who goes above and beyond in their job. Congratulations Judy and thank you for your dedication!
The Chamber is the organization that supports our community, and membership in the Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce is an investment in the future of our community. If you are interested in joining the Chamber and working with us to support Ruidoso, please give us a call at 575-257-7395.
CAPITAL PROJECTS
Infrastructure Capital Improvement Plan (ICIP) Priorities
The top 10 projects for the FY2028-2032 Infrastructure Capital Improvement Plan (ICIP) were recently approved by the Village Council at the June 9, 2026, Regular Council Meeting. The ICIP is a planning document that allows municipalities to identify projects that will address priority infrastructure problems in the village. This 5-year plan also encourages the municipality to employ forward thinking in order to develop capital improvements at a sustainable pace. This plan is updated every year to reflect current Village priorities and add new projects. While the ICIP is not an application for funding, the Village is able to submit the top 5 projects for capital outlay funding. During the 2026 Legislative Session, the Village was awarded capital outlay in the amount of $2,500,000 for roadway improvements and $2,500,000 for sewer improvements.
The following list is the top 10 project list for the ICIP:
