Update from Ruidoso

09.04.2024

On September 3, 2024 RGF president Paul Gessing had the chance to travel to Ruidoso to speak to the Lincoln County GOP. Ruidoso remains one of the most beautiful and politically-conservative areas of our State. This was his first trip since the fires that hit the area earlier this summer. Here are some thoughts (and a few photos taken of the burn area).

  1. At least a few people I talked to believe that ALL the fires at the time were set intentionally. 
  2. A change of wind direction likely saved the town;
  3. Frustration is mounting with FEMA as it has in Northern New Mexico;
  4. Most are confident the town WILL come back although somewhat changed;
  5. Addressing debris in waterways is supposed to be done by the Federal Department of Homeland Security (so I was told). The biggest ongoing concerns is getting the waterways cleared to minimize flooding.

The photos below were taken of a part of the burn area near the burned Swiss Chalet Inn.

While it will take some time for the people and the economy of Ruidoso to recover, it is a great part of our state with great people. It WILL recover.