The Village of Ruidoso honored its top team members for Q4 2024. The Finance Department was named Department of the Quarter for outstanding financial management. Individual awards went to Richard Butler (Public Works), Christy Coker (Administration), Amanda Castillo (Community Services), and Simon Haase (Public Safety). Mayor Lynn Crawford praised their dedication and positive impact on the community.

February 10, 2025 – Effective immediately, Lincoln National Forest has raised its fire danger rating from “moderate” to “high” due to low moisture levels and forecasted dry conditions. Fires can now start and spread easily, especially in grassy or wooded areas. Visitors are urged to follow fire safety guidelines and ensure campfires are fully extinguished.

The Wingfield Heritage House Museum invites families to Hands-on History Family Day on Saturday, March 1, from 10 AM to 2 PM. This free event offers interactive activities, including retro games, handwriting practice, crafts, a historic photo booth, and museum exploration. Located at 2813 Sudderth Drive, the museum showcases Ruidoso’s rich history. 

The Lincoln National Forest is planning to conduct prescribed fire operations on the Sacramento Ranger District beginning Jan. 31, through Feb. 14, 2025, depending on weather and ground conditions.

For updates and information, please visit the Lincoln National Forest website at www.fs.usda.gov/lincoln, the Lincoln National Forest Facebook page and https://nmfireinfo.com/

Ruidoso shines as the ultimate Christmas movie destination in Santa’s Cousin, directed by Ross Marks. This heartwarming holiday film captures the town’s festive spirit, from its wild horses to the beloved Festival of Lights Parade. Though much was filmed in Las Cruces, Ruidoso remains central to the story. With local inspiration and community support, Santa’s Cousin highlights Ruidoso’s charm as a must-visit holiday destination.

The workforce housing project at 603 Mechem Drive is progressing, with modular units onsite and utility installation on track for February. The Village is coordinating transport to minimize disruptions, though brief interruptions may occur. Landscaping bids are open, with work starting in February, weather permitting. To join the waitlist, contact Berkshire Hathaway at 575-257-4011. For project info, call Michael Martinez at 575-258-4343 ext. 1006.

Filmed in and around Ruidoso, Santa’s Cousin (Dec. 2024) is a heartwarming Christmas romantic comedy that follows Santa’s cousin on a mission to save the town’s beloved Christmas Jubilee—finding love and rediscovering the holiday spirit along the way. Starring Jonathan Stoddard, Alexandra Harris, and Eric Roberts, the film beautifully showcases Ruidoso’s cherished holiday traditions.

This holiday season, the Ruidoso Police Department reminds everyone to celebrate safely with a few simple tips: keep your home well-lit, avoid posting gifts on social media, ask a neighbor to watch your home if traveling, and never drink and drive. For assistance, call RPD’s non-emergency number at 575-258-7365. Let’s work together to ensure a joyful, safe, and secure holiday season for all!

Join Ruidoso’s Shop with a Cop event on December 14, 2024, where local police officers bring holiday cheer to children in need by shopping with them and fostering positive connections. Support the program by donating funds, gift cards, or goodie bag items, or by sponsoring meals. Together, we can brighten the holidays and strengthen community bonds. Contact the RPD at 575-258-7365 to get involved!

The Village of Ruidoso is proud to announce that two of its dedicated employees, Eric Queller and Ashlie Carabajal, have received statewide recognition and awards for their exemplary contributions to emergency management and public safety and their continued dedication to our community. Their unwavering commitment and exceptional leadership during some of the most challenging times in Ruidoso’s history have set a remarkable standard for service in our community.