Volume 62 · October 2026
There’s a reason so many of us say fall is the best season in Ruidoso. And of course, fall means AspenFest is right around the corner. It’s one of the best community events we have all year, and I hope you’ll join your neighbors for the fun on October 3rd. Whether you come for the parade, the vendors, or just the chance to see everyone out enjoying the season together, AspenFest is Ruidoso at its best.
Mayor Lynn Crawford
Before we look ahead, I want to look back for a moment and say thank you. Labor Day Weekend brought a wonderful crowd to town, and I’ve heard from so many business owners, restaurateurs, and lodging operators about what a strong weekend it was. To everyone who chose to spend their holiday with us, whether you were visiting for the first time or the fiftieth, thank you. Every meal you ate, every room you booked, and every shop you walked into made a real difference for the local businesses that make this community what it is. I also want to speak directly about news that many of you have undoubtedly heard: the owners of the track are currently working on a framework that would sell the Quarter Horse Triple Crown and the Super Select Horse Sale to Lone Star Park in Grand Prairie, Texas. This deal is not yet final, but I know it has raised real concern, and I want to address it honestly. For decades, the Quarter Horse Triple Crown has been synonymous with Ruidoso Downs. These races put us on the map for quarter horse racing and brought countless visitors, owners, and fans to our community, leaving a real economic impact that our local businesses have felt every season. While we understand Lone Star Park is wanting to purchase the series, Ruidoso’s place in Triple Crown history can never be erased. We wish Lone Star Park and the sport of quarter horse racing continued success, and we’re grateful for everything these races have meant to our community over the years. Don’t forget to tune in to Mondays with the Mayor every Monday morning at 8:00 AM on KRUI (99.1 FM/1490 AM). We always talk about and give updates on Village matters, and we love to take questions from our listeners. Ruidoso has certainly weathered change before, and we will once again. Our community’s strength has never come from any single event or industry. It comes from the people who live here, the visitors who keep coming back, and the incredible landscape we all get to call home. I’m proud of that resilience, and I’m looking forward to seeing you all out at AspenFest.
Mayor Lynn Crawford
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VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETINGS Recent Actions
September 8, 2026, Village Council Meeting Highlights: » Presentation of Retirement Plaque to Elaine Sanchez, for her Service to the Village of Ruidoso Fire Department from September 2001 through September 2026. » Approval of Appointment and Oath of Office for Laura K. Vega as Village Attorney.
Pictured from left to right: Adam Sanchez, Greg Cory, Darren Hooker, Mayor Lynn Crawford, Mayor Pro Tem Rifle Salas, Susan Lutterman, and Everett Brophy
» Approval of Acceptance of Donation of a Seek Thermal Fire Pro 300 Thermal Imaging Camera from Pastor Beau Perry of Legacy Church, INC, Albuquerque, New Mexico. » Approval of Memorandum of Understanding between the Village of Ruidoso and the County of Lincoln for the Provision of Regulation Services of Residential and Commercial Construction within Certain Specified Areas of the County of Lincoln. » Approval of Contract for Services Agreement Between the County of Lincoln and the Village of Ruidoso to Provide Library Services to All Citizens Within the Boundaries of Lincoln County. » Approval of Proposal from Cutler Repaving, INC. for 2” Milling and 2” Repaving on Country Club Drive and North Eagle Drive Utilizing NM GSD Statewide Price Agreement #30-80500-23-17018 in the Amount of $1,006,084.63 Including NMGRT. » Approval of Amendment No.2 to Task Order RFP#2024-004P-WWE-04 with Water Works Engineers, LLC for Redesign of The Two Rivers Raw Water Intake Structure In the Amount of $107,610.80 Including NMGRT. Next Council Meeting: Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 1:00 PM in Council Chambers Village Hall
WINGFIELD HERITAGE HOUSE MUSEUM WHHM Celebrates 2nd Anniversary
Join Wingfield Heritage House Museum, Friends of WHHM, and the Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday, October 22, 2026, from 5:00-7:00 PM for a special 2nd Anniversary Celebration! This community gathering will feature live music, delicious food, and plenty of fun as WHHM marks two wonderful years of preserving and sharing Ruidoso’s history. The evening will also spotlight the opening of the new Carmon Phillips Exhibit, offering guests a first look at this exciting addition to the museum’s collection. Come celebrate!! As always, admission to the Wingfield Heritage House Museum is free. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM at 2813 Sudderth Drive. Listeners can also catch the museum’s weekly radio segment, Moments in American History, which airs Mondays at 10:00 AM on KRUI (99.1 FM/1490 AM), right after Mondays with the Mayor.
Help Keep Our History Alive RU U II D DO O SS O O,, N NM M R
Your gift helps keep the Wingfield Heritage House Museum free and open to all. Scan to donate. 2
SPECIAL EVENTS
30th XTERRA World Championship Comes to Ruidoso
Ruidoso will welcome athletes from around the world for the 2026 XTERRA World Championship, October 8–11, 2026. The championship brings top professional and amateur off-road triathletes to the Village to compete on the mountains, trails, and waters that make Ruidoso one of the premier outdoor recreation destinations in the world. The main World Championship race takes place on October 10, 2026 and will challenge athletes across three disciplines: » Swim: 0.93 miles in Grindstone Lake » Mountain Bike: 16.8 miles through the Grindstone trail system » Trail Run: 6.2 miles, finishing at Wingfield Park Athletes will compete on a demanding course that showcases Ruidoso’s natural beauty and rugged terrain. From the open-water swim at Grindstone Lake to the mountain bike and trail running legs, competitors will experience the elevation, trails, and mountain landscape that make this a true XTERRA championship course. The event is expected to draw more than 1,500 athletes from over 55 countries to Ruidoso, along with their families, coaches, support teams, and spectators. Throughout the championship weekend, visitors will stay in local hotels, dine at restaurants, shop at local businesses and experience everything the community has to offer. Hosting the XTERRA World Championship is a significant opportunity for Ruidoso. The event places this community on an international stage, bringing visitors from across the country and around the world to experience our outdoor recreation offerings. The championship is also part of Ruidoso’s continued effort to attract major sporting events that create positive economic impact and introduce new visitors to this community. With Grindstone Lake, miles of trails, and the surrounding mountains, Ruidoso offers a setting unlike any other for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. The Village of Ruidoso is excited to welcome XTERRA athletes, their families and visitors from around the world. Come out, support the competitors, and help show them why Ruidoso is such a special work, live, and play.
Looking for live music in Ruidoso tonight?
DiscoverRuidoso.com/info/where-to-see-live-music-in-ruidoso
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LEVEL 1 FIRE RESTRICTIONS
Permitted commercial fire pits - OK
WWW.RUIDOSO-NM.GOV FOR MORE INFORMATION
Non-permitted fire pits, campfires, & fireworks - NOT OK
Outdoor cooking including charcoal - OK
FINANCE CORNER
Utility Rate Adjustments – Correction
*Editor’s Note: In the last issue of the Ruidoso Insider, the new rate chart contained errors. Here is the corrected chart with the changes highlighted. 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 – such as 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 increased in July 2026 (reflected in August billing cycles). The upcoming rate increases are as follows: » Water: 8% » Sewer: 8% » Wastewater: 5% » Solid Waste and Forestry: 30% The Village of Ruidoso appreciates the community’s understanding and support as the work is put in to maintain and improve essential utility services for current and future residents. Utility rates can be found at Ruidoso-NM.gov/water-rates.
• Corrected Information 4
NEW MEXICO MUNICIPAL LEAGUE Policy Committee Meets to Advance 2027 Legislative Priorities On June 17, 2026, members of the New Mexico Municipal League’s Policy Committee convened in Albuquerque to review and consider legislative priorities for the upcoming 2027 legislative session. The meeting provided a forum for members and League staff to present and discuss proposed initiatives addressing critical municipal issues across the state. Policy Committee members heard presentations on a range of proposals, including those submitted by member municipalities as well as staff-developed recommendations. After discussion, members voted to adopt the following as priorities for the 2027 session: Police Officer Workers’ Compensation Creating a presumption that certain occupational conditions suffered by New Mexico police officers are work-related, and therefore compensable under workers’ compensation, similar to the protections that already exist for New Mexico firefighters. The specific conditions covered by this presumption have yet to be determined. Public Safety Retirees Return to Work Authorizing certain retired public safety employees, including municipal police officers, sheriff’s deputies, and state police officers, to return to public safety instructor and chief of police positions while continuing to receive their PERA pension. Local Government Stabilization Fund Creating a fund to help mitigate negative financial impacts and preserve budget stability for local governments across New Mexico. Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Funding Requesting an appropriation to the Water Project Fund to close the gap between vetted project applications and available funding statewide. Training Standards Updating New Mexico’s in-service training requirements for certified law enforcement officers to ensure training remains current, practical, and responsive to the needs of officers, agencies, and communities. Municipal Code Modernizing the state’s Municipal Code (Chapter 3 of state statute) to reflect the current needs and challenges of municipalities. Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Redirecting Motor Vehicle Excise Tax revenue to road funds to invest in statewide road infrastructure. Firework Regulation Amending statute to give municipalities more flexibility to limit or restrict the sale and use of certain fireworks. Airport Funding Requesting funding to support local airports, which provide critical services, especially in rural areas, including law enforcement and firefighting support, medical services, and support for tourism and economic development. These priorities will help guide NMML’s legislative agenda heading into the 2027 session. 5
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Ruidoso to Host 2026 New Mexico Outdoor Economics Conference This month, Ruidoso will welcome outdoor industry leaders, policymakers, community leaders, and professionals from across New Mexico for the 2026 Outdoor Economics Conference, October 14–16 at the Ruidoso Convention Center. The event marks the ninth annual statewide conference focused on New Mexico’s growing outdoor economy.
The conference brings together people working in outdoor recreation, economic development, tourism, land management, and conservation to discuss opportunities and challenges facing communities throughout New Mexico. The three-day event will include panel discussions, seminars, networking opportunities, and an outdoor expo. Attendees will also have the chance to experience Ruidoso through optional outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and stargazing. Outdoor Recreation and Economic Development For Ruidoso, hosting the Outdoor Economics Conference is a natural fit. This community has long been known for its mountains, trails, lakes, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The conference offers a chance to bring statewide leaders to Ruidoso and showcase the role outdoor recreation can play in strengthening local economies. The outdoor recreation industry continues to create opportunities for communities across New Mexico through tourism, small businesses, jobs, and investment. Bringing these conversations to Ruidoso allows local leaders and businesses to connect with others from across the state and share ideas about how outdoor recreation can support long-term economic growth. The conference also gives attendees a chance to experience Ruidoso beyond the Convention Center. They will be able to explore the community, support local restaurants and businesses, and see firsthand why Ruidoso is an important destination for outdoor recreation in New Mexico. Hosting events like this is part of Ruidoso’s effort to attract conferences and gatherings that bring visitors to the community, support local businesses, and create opportunities for future partnerships.
RUIDOSO PUBLIC LIBRARY
Author Talk with Dr. Harold Finkelstein
Mark your calendars and make plans to visit the Ruidoso Public Library on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 1:30 PM for a special author talk with recognized authority Dr. Harold Finkelstein. He will be discussing his new publication, Releasing the Spirit: The Art of Zuñi Fetish Carvings, and guiding attendees through the enduring legacy of this beautiful Native American art form; tracing its roots from the early eras of Chaco Canyon to the present day. With over four decades of hands-on experience as a direct buyer, itinerant trader, and supplier to galleries and museums across 35 states, Dr. Finkelstein brings unparalleled expertise to this fascinating subject. Don’t miss this chance to learn from a leading expert and author of the 1994 best-selling monograph, Zuñi Fetish Carvings. Come step into the world of Zuñi fetish carving with a fascinating exploration into its history, culture, and art! 6
RUIDOSO MIDTOWN ASSOCIATION From the Desk of RMA Executive Director Tim Duckworth The end of summer has been eventful here in Ruidoso. On August 22, 2026, Wingfield Park hosted the Sierra Blanca Pack Burro Race, with almost 100 teams competing. It was great to see the park filled with burros, mules, runners, and spectators. I hope this becomes an annual Ruidoso event! Labor Day Weekend brought another fantastic crowd to Midtown, with many businesses reporting outstanding sales. Then Low Class Cruise Weekend, September 11-13, 2026, was another hit, with Midtown and all of Ruidoso providing the perfect backdrop for some incredible cars. Events like these are a great reminder of just how important a vibrant Midtown is to Ruidoso. When Ruidoso brings people into the district, that activity translates directly into customers for our local businesses and helps strengthen our community as a whole. There’s plenty more ahead. Upcoming events include the AspenFest Parade and Festival (October 3, 2026); the 2026 XTERRA World Championship (October 8-11, 2026); and Midtown Halloween (October 28, 2026). And now for my shout-out to new businesses who have joined the Midtown family: Sausage King and White Mountain Popcorn, both in Bigfoot Plaza, and Still Wild, in Boxcar Alley. Check us out on Instagram @midtown_ruidoso and online at RuidosoMidtownAssociation.com.
COMMUNITY SAFETY
DWI Prevention Brings Lifesaving Lessons to Local Communities
For nearly two decades, Lincoln County DWI Prevention has worked with schools, law enforcement agencies, and community partners to help young people make safer, healthier decisions. Through classroom instruction, interactive events, and public outreach, the organization equips students and families with practical information about underage alcohol use, impaired driving, and personal responsibility. A cornerstone of this work is Protecting You/Protecting Me, an evidence-based program Lincoln County DWI Prevention has delivered for more than 19 years. The six-week course serves fourth-grade students in Ruidoso, Carrizozo, and Hondo, with Capitan participating in select years. Led in local schools by Assistant Mandy Mader, the program teaches students about brain development and the risks of alcohol use before age 25. That educational effort continues in eighth grade through the Maze of Life, an interactive health fair for students across Lincoln County and Mescalero. Working in small groups, students move through booths where they practice life skills, explore healthier choices, and consider the consequences of their decisions. Officers from the Ruidoso Police Department and New Mexico State Police deepen the experience with a realistic field sobriety test simulation and an explanation of the potential consequences of impaired driving. From elementary classrooms to community-wide events, Lincoln County DWI Prevention continues to pair education with practical experience, helping ensure prevention is not simply a message, but a set of skills local students and families can use to make safer choices. 7
Fall EVENTS
Check out our line-up of great events for fall!
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: • Downshift Run Club, Downshift Brewing Company • Jacks Trivia Night, Jacks Backstage • Free Nutrition/Cooking Classes, ENMU TUESDAY: • Open Mic & Karaoke Night, Jacks Backstage • Trivia Night, The Cellar Uncorked • Music Bingo, Lost Hiker Brewing Company (every other Tuesday) • $10 Tuesdays, Noisy Water Winery WEDNESDAY: • Wet Your Whistle Wednesday, Lost Hiker Brewing Co. • Karaoke Night, The Quarters Bar & Grill 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 OCTOBER 1: • Free Classic Cinema Film Series Seconds, ENMU • Lava Look Hike with Warren, Valley of Fires Recreation Area OCTOBER 1-2: • ENMU Cross Country Meet, Inn of the Mountain Gods OCTOBER 1-31: • Pumpkin Patch, Enchanted Vine OCTOBER 2: • Author Talk with Dr. Harold Finkelstein 1:30 PM, Ruidoso Public Library • Homecoming Football Game, Ruidoso High School • Killer Keyz Dueling Pianos, Jacks Backstage OCTOBER 2-3: • Jacks Ruidoso Chili Cookoff & Margarita Mix-Off, Jacks Backstage OCTOBER 3: • AspenFest, Wingfield Park • Lost Hikers Gonna Hike, Valley of Fires Recreation Area Visitor Center • AspenFest Storytime, Ruidoso Public Library • Menopause the Musical 25th Anniversary Tour, Spencer Theater OCTOBER 5: • Trivia Night, Noisy Water Winery OCTOBER 6: • Vinyl Night, Downshift Hidden Tap • First Tuesday Yoga with Niki, Noisy Water Winery 8
OCTOBER 7: • XTERRA Community Hike, Moon Mountain Trail • Vinyl Night, Downshift Hidden Tap OCTOBER 7-10: • XTERRA Morning Yoga, Blue Lotus Day Spa & Yoga • XTERRA Evening Yoga, Downshift Riverside OCTOBER 8: • XTERRA Welcome Ceremony & Community Celebration, Wingfield Park • Time Turner History Book Club, Ruidoso Public Library OCTOBER 8-11: • XTERRA World Championship Weekend, Ruidoso • XTERRA Ruidoso Shop Hop, Midtown OCTOBER 9: • XTERRA Sunrise Community Hike, Grindstone Mesa Loop OCTOBER 10: • XTERRA World Championship After Party, Ruidoso Convention Center • Water Colors & Winged Wonders Family Day, Wingfield Heritage House Museum • Teen Book Club, Ruidoso Public Library OCTOBER 10-11: • XTERRA World Championship Awards Ceremonies, Ruidoso Convention Center OCTOBER 15: • Ruidoso Spooky Charcuterie Building Class, Noisy Water Winery OCTOBER 16: • Switchfoot with Anberlin, Jacks Backstage OCTOBER 16-17: • ENMU-Ruidoso College Rodeo, Capitan, NM OCTOBER 17: • Eli Young Band, Jacks Backstage • 14th Annual Health and Wellness Fair, Inn of the Mountain Gods • Doug Montgomery - The Piano Man, Spencer Theater OCTOBER 17-18: • R2Doso Comic Con 2026, Ruidoso Convention Center OCTOBER 18: • Toss No Mas Clean Up, Wingfield Park OCTOBER 21: • Teen Program, Ruidoso Public Library OCTOBER 22: • Free Classic Cinema Film Series Rosemary’s Baby, ENMU • Sip and Paint at the Barn, Enchanted Vine • Friends of WHHM 2nd Anniversary Celebration, Wingfield Heritage House Museum OCTOBER 24: • Aaron Sanchez, Inn of the Mountain Gods OCTOBER 25: • White Sands Full Moon Night, White Sands National Park • Fort Stanton Trick or Treat Trail Storytime, Ruidoso Public Library
NOVEMBER 3: • Vinyl Night, Downshift Hidden Tap NOVEMBER 7: • Sierra Club Guided Hike, BLM Valley of Fires Recreation Area • Saturday Night Fights IV, Inn Of The Mountain Gods NOVEMBER 13-15: • Ruidoso Christmas Jubilee, Ruidoso Convention Center NOVEMBER 14: • Transportation Family Day, Wingfield Heritage House Museum NOVEMBER 20-22: • A Christmas Affair, Ruidoso Convention Center NOVEMBER 22: • The Sixties Show, Spencer Theater NOVEMBER 28: • Ruidoso Turkey Trot, White Mountain Recreation Complex • Aaron Palacios-Juan Grabriel Tribute, Inn Of The Mountain Gods
TUESDAY:
• Baby & Me at 10:30 AM
WEDNESDAY:
• Storytime at 10:30 AM
OCTOBER 27: • The Hoppy Readers Book Club, Lost Hiker Taproom • Rotary Enchilada and Bingo Night, Ruidoso Convention Center • Halloween Children’s Program, Ruidoso Public Library OCTOBER 28: • Midtown Halloween Trick or Treat and Pumpkin Roll, Midtown Ruidoso • Halloween Storytime, Ruidoso Public Library OCTOBER 30: • Flashlight Tour, Fort Stanton Historic Site • Teen Program Escape Room, Ruidoso Public Library OCTOBER 31: • 12th Annual Dia de los Muertos Festival, Lincoln, NM
Submit Your Event
NOVEMBER 1: • Sierra Club Guided Hike, Fort Stanton Historic Site & BLM National Conservation Area
www.discoverruidoso.com/event-submission-form
RUIDOSO VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
From the Desk of Executive Director Deborah Douds
Join us for the AspenFest Parade on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM in Midtown. The theme for this year’s parade is Harvesting Adventure. Immediately following the parade, we will have a festival in Wingfield Park featuring local vendors, arts and crafts, kids’ activities, food trucks, wine and beer, as well as live music by Nova Rush, the Doso Dirtbags and the Mammoth Cults. This event is a local favorite, and we invite you to come out and celebrate autumn in Ruidoso. The Ruidoso Midtown Trick or Treat will be Wednesday, October 28, 2026, from 3:006:00 PM. We will once again be closing Sudderth Drive to through traffic to allow for a safer trick or treat for all the little goblins and ghouls. The Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce partners with the Ruidoso Midtown Association and the Ruidoso Parks and Recreation Department for this event, and we are looking forward to trick or treating, coffin races and, of course, the pumpkin roll. We would like to congratulate Olé Taco on its 50th anniversary. The business celebrated with a ribbon cutting on August 28, 2026. Please join us on October 22, 2026, from 5:00-7:00 PM at the Wingfield Heritage House Museum for Business After Hours as we celebrate their 2nd anniversary. Also mark your calendar for the Rotary Enchilada and Bingo Night on October 27, 2026, at the Ruidoso Convention Center, with all proceeds going to fund the Rotary Club of Ruidoso’s community projects. Please remember to shop locally and support our local restaurants. 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 this community, please give us a call at 575-257-7395. 9
DEPARTMENTS & PHONE NUMBERS
Airport 575-336-8111
Forestry 575-257-5544
Convention Center 575-258-5445
Planning & Zoning 575-258-6999
Judicial 575-257-9055
Regional Waste Water Treatment Plant (RWWTP) 575-378-8417
Library 575-258-3704 Parks & Recreation 575-257-5030 Police 575-258-7365
Community Center 575-257-4565 Water Distribution and Sewer Collections 575-257-2386
Fire 575-257-3473 Solid Waste 575-257-1502 Street Works 575-257-6023
Water Production 575-257-5525 Water Rights/Watershed (RJU) 575-258-6913
VILLAGE HALL: 575-258-4343 • Capital Projects and Purchasing • Executive • Finance • Human Resources • Utility Billing
www.Ruidoso-NM.gov
RUIDOSO MUNICIPAL SCHOOLS
From The Desk of Interim Superintendent Morgan Hawk
The past month brought some exciting news for the Ruidoso Municipal Schools. Following an extensive search and interview process, the RMSD Board of Education selected Michelle Ronga as the district’s next Superintendent. Ronga comes to RMSD from the Las Cruces Public Schools and brings more than 15 years of experience in education as a teacher, school principal, and district-level leader. Her commitment to supporting students and staff, and to building a collaborative culture focused on student success, will guide her leadership as she joins RMSD. The district looks forward to welcoming her to its schools and to the Ruidoso community. September was also a month of settling in and building momentum across as students and staff found their rhythm in the new school year. Classrooms, athletic fields, and activity spaces were filled with learning, participation, and connection. From the youngest learners at Sierra Vista Primary to students preparing for their futures at Ruidoso High School, there was much to celebrate. Students explored STEM, music, and hands-on learning, while Warrior athletes represented Ruidoso with pride. The “Be Here” attendance initiative continued to remind students and the community that every school day matters and that being present is an important first step toward success. RMSD Bilingual Night also brought the community together to celebrate the languages and cultures represented throughout the district. ParentTeacher Conferences at RMS and RHS provided another opportunity for connection, with conferences for SVP and WME coming in October. October starts off with a bang as the Warriors celebrate Homecoming with the football game on Friday, October 2, 2026, and a dance on Saturday, October 3, 2026. RMSD is grateful to the teachers, staff, volunteers, and community partners who continue to support our students and schools each day, and to the entire Ruidoso community for its ongoing support.
It’s great to be a Warrior! 10
LINCOLN COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER
From the Desk of The Chief Executive Todd Oberheu
Lincoln County Medical Center (LCMC) continues to grow and invest in the health of the community we are proud to serve. From new services and facility improvements to achievements in care quality and patient experience, this progress reflects LCMC’s commitment to providing high-quality healthcare for Lincoln County and the surrounding region. One of LCMC’s most exciting projects is the construction of a new onsite helipad, which will support faster and safer air medical transfers directly from the hospital campus. For patients facing serious emergencies such as trauma, stroke or heart attack, every minute matters. This project is an important investment in emergency readiness and will help patients quickly reach a higher level of care when needed. LCMC has also made important strides in expanding access to care locally. The new Lincoln County Women’s Clinic provides additional space for women’s healthcare, and the new Sleep Study Lab helps patients receive testing and treatment for sleeprelated concerns without traveling far from home. In addition, we are now offering child psychiatry services with Dr. Mary Nord-Cook, an important step in improving behavioral health support for children and families. Behind each of these improvements is our continued focus on patient experience, quality and safety. Early 2026 reports showed LCMC performing above target on several key patient satisfaction measures, including overall hospital ratings, emergency department recommendations, and clinic provider recommendations. These results reflect the compassionate care our employees, providers, and leaders deliver each day. We also continue to work with community partners to support the future of rural healthcare. The 2026–2027 mill levy request is intended to help sustain EMS, rural clinics and needed capital improvements, including backup electrical systems and ambulance equipment. We have also received grant funding to support the specialized staff and clinical resources needed to provide obstetrical care in a rural community. Together, these accomplishments demonstrate our continued investment in the people, programs, facilities and partnerships that support a healthier Lincoln County. As 2026 continues, we remain grateful for the trust of our patients and neighbors and are committed to serving Lincoln County with compassion, quality, and care close to home.
YourLibrary delivered
Ruidoso Public Library offers Your Library Delivered, a mobile delivery service that brings books and audiobooks to select community drop sites throughout Lincoln County.
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Scan to sign up
XTERRA • RUIDOSO, NEW MEXICO • OCTOBER 5-12
EAT LIKE AN ATHLETE Fuel Your Race Weekend in Ruidoso 313 Cree Meadows Drive, Ruidoso, NM 88345
Ruidoso’s restaurants are race-weekend ready with menus built around performance, recovery, and mountain hospitality. Look for the official athlete-friendly restaurant sign around town.
High protein Muscle repair Complex carbs Sustained energy Hydration focus Soups & broths Anti-inflammatory Clean ingredients Portion balance Race-prep sized Gluten-free Clearly labeled
Scan to Eat Like an Athlete