Selecting a Property Management Company

If you've spent any time in a resort community, you've probably encountered a good number of vacation rentals. These can vary, from cabins to condos and perhaps even a seaside bungalow. These are properties frequently owned by absent investors and rented out to guests on a nightly, weekly or monthly basis. In a busy resort community these homes can not only be a gracious lodging experience, but often more economical than hotels especially at "high season" rates.
If you're among the many considering investing in a rental property you must make a choice. Prepare to spend the time to maintain the unit and arrange for reliable housekeeping services, advertise your little getaway on the internet and in the local media, and provide facilities for checking guests in and out. The alternative is the preference of a majority of out of town owners...hire a reputable property management company to help maximize your ROI.
Here are a few guidelines to help in selecting the management company that best meets your needs.
> Naturally, word of mouth can help you in your research. Talk to locals and other rental property owners. Most will be happy to share their experiences with you.
> Note the visibility of the management company in the market. Are they easily located in the local phone book? How many units do they manage? Do they have actual office facilities or are your guests reporting for check-in to someone's garage? Do they advertise in the local travel guides and other area publications?
> Technology plays an important part in property management success. Does your candidate have a solid internet presence? Can you see ample photos online to help selecting an appropriate retreat? Can you easily check availability and book online? Most important, how easily can your candidate be found in the online community? Target a search engine and a search term that you feel people might actually use to shop for a property. In Ruidoso, New Mexico a mountain resort community the most popular vacation rental is the mountain cabin.
Select, for example MSN...and the simple search phrase "ruidoso cabin". If your property management candidate shows up in the first page, you've located a firm that has the marketing savvy to help your investment succeed. If the company you're investigating is number one on the first search page you've found an aggressive, professional marketer with the tools you need to maximize the return from your investment. If they do not appear in the first three pages of search results...move on. They may have a website, but it is not positioned to help you make reservations.
> What is the rental experience like for the guest? Is the initial contact with a friendly, knowlegeable reservationist? Here's where your own powers of observation come into play. Call your candidate and actually book a stay in one of their managed properties. How were you treated? Was the property well maintained and clean? Would you rent from them again? This simple technique can be a real eye opener.
These basic questions will help you get started in selecting the property management that can help you realize your investment plans.

Country Music - Introducing CT Harrison

CT Harrison just called to let me know that he was making another television appearance, this time on cable's PAX network. Not surprising. It has been said that if you throw enough "stuff" at the wall, sooner or later something is bound to stick. And CT has displayed remarkable resilience with his throwing arm. After knocking on doors from Nashville to Los Angeles I suppose that he has every right to become discouraged at the results of his efforts. But he doesn't. He just keeps on.
What makes a person that focused on his goal...his love of music? "My sister left home when I was just eight years old." CT recalls. "She left behind her Gibson Les Paul copy guitar. That was enough for me!" he remembers. "I used to sit in the living room for hours playing that thing to an 8-Track of Johnny Cash's Man In Black." Note: If you don't quite remember 8-Tracks ask Mom and Dad. "I would pretend I was Johnny Cash and the crowd was cheering for ME. Later, I also fell in love with the drums. After playing air drums every waking hour of every day my folks finally bought me a drum set. I guess this whole course was set right there."
CT was born in Las Vegas, Nevada where he was adopted at 11 months old after stays in several foster homes. He grew up on a farm near Roswell, New Mexico where he attended East Grand Plains Elementary School, T. Mesa Middle School and finally Goddard High School. "I wasn't a great student, but I did OK... and my love of music continued to develop." CT offered. While other Country Music hopefuls were waiting tables in Nashville, CT had his share of 'day jobs'. "My first after school job was in a butcher shop and I absolutely hated it! Next, I held a brief job at the local Radio Shack". CT seemed to embrace variety and jobs as a contractor, surveyor, psychiatric technician, nurse's aid, reservationist and several stints as a Disc Jockey followed.
But CT wasn't just working... he was listening as well. He had his ear to his Country favorites Toby Keith, Tim McGraw, Gary Allen, Pat Green and his idol, Chris LeDoux. CT mused, "When I listen to what I've recorded, I can hear bits and pieces of all of them." And CT's discography continues to grow. "Waiting For The Other Heart To Fall was a 5 song EP that I really enjoyed recording. The season seemed to take over next and we released CT's Country Christmas. My current project American Outlaw is perhaps our biggest undertaking to date."
CT does reserve some time for relaxation. "I fish, camp and when darkness falls it's straight to the honky tonk dance floor." And all wrapped in a steady diet of Country music. His fantasy? "I'd travel to Scotland and visit old castles, Loch Ness and do some ghost hunting, in season of course." A grin swept across his face. "I really love ghost hunting."
CT's chosen genre of Country music has always been about lovin', leavin', drinkin' and fightin'. I asked CT which he feels has most impacted his career. "Bar brawls." he answered without the slightest hesitation. "One night in Farmington, New Mexico 5 pipe liners got me down in the parking lot. It took the better part of a month to recover but heck, that was FUN!"
You can sample CT's music or order it online at www.ctharrison.com.

The Perfect Ski Vacation

A lot of planning has gone into preparations for the perfect ski trip. You've targeted an adventure at Ski Apache in Southern New Mexico. Good choice! Ski Apache is one of those well kept ski secrets. 55 breathtaking trails and the largest lift capacity in New Mexico make for maximum skiing and a minimum of waiting.

Nearby Ruidoso, New Mexico offers all the convenience of a modern resort community. Ample lodging and dining choices are the "trimming" for your ski holiday. You've considered all the many places to stay and have decided that a mountain adventure calls for that perfect getaway...a secluded mountain cabin. A good choice in Ruidoso would be "Away From It All"...a brand new cabin tucked away just a few miles from downtown...but light years away from other people. Now that you have the accommodations nailed down, it's time to attend to the skiing.

Many Ruidoso hotels, cabins and property management companies offer a "ski package" with your lodging. They've bundled together discounted lift tickets and equipment rentals to make the logistics of the trip a breeze! The ski vouchers you'll exchange for lift tickets save you from standing in long lift ticket lines. Make sure that your equipment rental outlet offers reservations on your ski equipment, like the Wild West Ski Shop. That way, your previous phone order allows you to go to the head of long equipment lines with little or no waiting. Don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with the locals. They'll let you in on tips like these that will save you time and get you skiing.

Only one more detail to investigate. Time to check the weather. It's no secret that there is no such thing as too much snow for local businesses that rely on highly seasonal income from winter sports. This year, precipitation has been light all over New Mexico. For reasons unknown, rumors on the extent of this light snowfall exagerate the shortage of new snow. Local merchants now join together to present an accurrate picture of the situation. Few are more affected than the areas lodgers. Like river boat gamblers, their hand is betting on snow to attract the business that they need to survive. The snow always comes. This year it's just a little...late.

Let's set the record straight. Snowfall has been light, but Ski Apache is open and people are having the time of their lives...skiing! Ruidoso prepares for the barrage of skiers searching for and finding the perfect ski vacation.

Goodbye Old Friend

Beloved Ruidoso entertainer Bela Kronk was remembered today in a fitting "standing room only" memorial service. Kronk, the incredibly popular percussionist for the Southern New Mexico group Bad Chili passed away suddenly Thursday. His unexpected death was attributed to blood poisoning caused by contact with the forged Rolex watch that he wore.

As was expected, the remaining members of Bad Chili were grief stricken. "Ya just can't understand something like this." commented Rico. "He's gone quicker than if somebody popped him!"

Sal joined the tribute. "The essence of greatness has passed. Our music will never be the same" he added. The bereft Monk could only nod in agreement.

Perhaps the most upset from the recent tragedy was bassist Crawdad. "Can you believe that he's gone? He owed me twenty dollars!" lamented Crawdad. Bela's body will be returned to his native Romania.

Top Ten Secrets

The resort village of Ruidoso, New Mexico has an unusually large number of all types of restaurants, galleries and shops. You can easily find a wide selection of foods, arts and gifts. There are also some great lesser known businesses and services available that the casual tourist may miss. Here are my top "Ten Best Kept Secrets About Ruidoso, New Mexico" to enhance your visit. We'll use inverse order to build the suspense!

10 Disco Taco Yes, we have the upscale Mexican Restaurants. If you want a margarita and to mingle with fellow travelers, forget Disco Taco. If you want good, down to earth Mexican food without a tourist atmosphere, check it out. On highway 70 in Ruidoso Downs.

9 Bad Chili The phenomenon of the Ruidoso band Bad Chili keeps steaming along! Together only six months, the group is playing to packed houses all over town! Is it their music? Is it their style? Judge for yourself. Catch a serving of Bad Chili when you're in Ruidoso.

8 Go Ruidoso The official travel and tourism website or Ruidoso, New Mexico. Chock full of information on local events, business and the community Go Ruidoso can be a life saver when planning a vacation in Ruidoso. Check them out at www.goruidoso.com .

7 Ruidoso Convention Center Nestled in the sleepy little Village of Ruidoso sits the Ruidoso Convention Center. A first rate meeting facility, the convention center is adjacent to the world class Links at Sierra Blanca Golf Course and the Hawthorn Suites. Home to events of all sizes and types the convention center is the idea place to combine business with pleasure!

6 Lincoln County Grill The grill really isn't a secret, but many still haven't tried their tasty and generous menu items. Breakfast is a treat and whatever happens remember this one simple fact about the grill...Chicken Fried Steaks!

5 Vacation Rentals Accommodations of all types can fill up fast during peak periods in Ruidoso. Because rooms are in great demand, prices rise significantly for holidays and special events. One hedge against the high lodging prices are Ruidoso's many vacation cabins, condos and home rentals. Private owners only in town for several weeks a year lease their properties out on a nightly basis. Frequently these offer amenities hotels don't...private hot tubs, pool tables, putting greens, ski equipment racks and even boot warmers. All at a cost less that a room at an upscale area hotel!

4 Chester Fried Chicken I don't do fried chicken very often but when I do, Chester's blows the colonel out of the water! Tender and flavorful, Chester's is available for take out from the Ruidoso Lawrence Brothers IGA Grocery.

3 Weasel Productions Weasel Productions is a Ruidoso hallmark in video production and photography. They feature the photographic skills of noted New Mexico photographer John T. Soden. John has been hailed by some as the "Ansel Adams of the mountain"! See his work in Ruidoso at the Hubbard Museum of the West and Josie's Gallery and Framing. Sample the talent at www.weaselvideoproductions.com .

2 The Club House A small, comfortable lounge tucked away behind a gas station. Relax with a libation, visit with friends or watch their big screen TV. This favorite "watering hole" is located at the intersection of Mechem (Hwy 48) and White Mountains Drives.

Finally, the very best kept secret about Ruidoso...

1 Visiting Ruidoso, New Mexico ... this very blog!

Plan on exploring some of these rather unique Ruidoso attractions. You'll have a great time discovering new favorites during your visit.

Rebounding In Style!

It was only last week that the Ruidoso group Bad Chili was reeling from a chain of circumstances that clearly left the band's future in doubt. This week, it's back to business as usual with all problems well behind them.

The band's guitarist, Rico, was completely exonerated from racketeering allegations when Judge Roy Bean (no relation) dismissed all charges. "I see no need to continue with this poorly scripted charade." the Judge stated before leaving the country on urgent personal business. "I knew I'd be vindicated all along." maintained the guitarist.

Bela, the band's premiere percussionist had been experiencing problems related to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. "I thought it was my music causing this problem." Bela confided. "As it turned out, all I needed to do was stop wearing my Rolex when I play! I'm fine...never been better!".

The band's troubles continued to disappear as bassist Crawdad has been released from hospitalization for exhaustion. "They totally replaced all of my blood." Crawdad explained. "Now I've got plenty of reds and whites and it's going to stay that way! I've vowed to get at least two hours of sleep every night to help keep things in balance."

Band member Sal is relieved about the shift in the group's momentum. "I just can't tell you how concerned I was!" mused Sal. "It's great to see the guys back together again! I'm ready to put it all behind us!"

As if the group's new outlook weren't enough, President George W. Bush decided to help them celebrate! "The President has been a big Bad Chili fan for a while now." said a White House spokesman. "He's got both CDs and has been looking forward to meeting them." he added. "It was really the President!" exclaimed guitarist Monk. "I almost couldn't believe my eyes!"

Big Trouble in River City

As you'll notice the recent problems facing the Ruidoso, New Mexico group Bad Chili have garnered their share of national attention. Is this the end of the band who's meteroric rise to fame in Southern New Mexico has taken the center stage in the national media?

An anonymous source close to the group reports that despite the circumstances that have plagued the band over the past week it's business as usual. "They may be down, but don't count them out!" the source commented.

The week's woes began as guitarist Rico was arrested and jailed pending arrainment on the "three strikes" provision of US racketeering laws. The action was particularly ironic with Rico arrested while attending...a baseball game! "I'm confident that I will be vindicated shortly." Rico maintained. He declined further comments and was accompanied by representatives from Dewey, Fleeceham and Howe retained to represent him.

If things couldn't have gotten any worse, percussionist Bela is reported to be under care for Carpel Tunnel Syndrome. "I've been using my wrists all my life! Why does this happen now?" the drummer lamented.

The downward spiral continued as bass player Crawdad is reportedly suffering from exhaustion. "I've never felt so really spent in all my life!" Crawdad remarked. "It's a fine creel of mudbugs to be in considering our recent success." He was hospitalized after collapsing during his statement to the press.

Guitarist Monk is said to be despondent over recent events. "He's so depressed he's even considering reversing his retina transplant!" our source reported. "He's not taking it well."

The only one not affected by the recent developments is lead vocalist Sal. He was frank in his conversations with our source. "I told those guys to slow down! I mean...really slow down! I was hoping they'd listen. I was hoping they'd listen."

Bad Chili fans everywhere are devastated, with candle light vigils planned to demonstrate the fans' support. "We're confident they'll maintain their recent level of success." stated the president of the Bad Chili Fan Club. "We've got to let them know we're there."

Will Bad Chili be able to keep their incredible momentum alive? Updates due next week will hopefully allow the band to continue their concert tour and success. "We're all hoping for the best here." offered Sal.

Bad To The Bone

The state of New Mexico has an official question..."Red or green?". It refers to your choice of chili, red or green. It augments many menu selections..."Did you want the red or green chili on that sir?". Now New Mexico adds a third choice...red chili, green chili or Bad Chili !

Meet the Ruidoso, New Mexico band Bad Chili. Bad Chili is a rather recent addition to the Ruidoso music scene, drawing upon over 100 years of combined music experience. Their repertoire includes material from Van Morrison, Led Zepplin, Kansas and many more classics. While they haven't yet inked a regular club gig you can find them appearing at the area's finest events. Their individual characters and styles contribute to the overall feel of a lighthearted but intent focus on their first, and in some cases, only love...music. Let's meet the group:

Bela - Brooding and contemplative Bela adds the beat to Bad Chili. Kind of like the cumin in a chili recipe Bela is that certain "something" that makes the mix. Too little and it's just not right! Too much and, well...

Rico - What can you say about Rico? Stoic, sensitive and immersed in the music, Rico mastered the guitar on his last stint in maximum security. He also joins in on vocals. If asked, you like his performance very, very much! Right?

Sal - A wonderful vocal range plus talents on the guitar and harp make Sal a good front for this bowl of Chili. A native of Lapland, Sal settled in Ruidoso because it reminded him of the Lap-plains of his Lap-homeland. Sal also enjoys Lap-dances.

Monk - What can you say about Monk, the master of the strings? Moving fluidly between guitars, mandolin or banjo Monk adds a real depth to the Chili experience. Blind since birth, a recent retinal transplant has allowed him to realize a life long dream...driving legally.

Crawdad - The mirth of the mixture, Crawdad is always burning a bass or trashing his amplifier. Embracing the "show" in each performance, Crawdad's antics are a real crowd pleaser. By the way, it's really not polite to stare at the lobotomy scars.

Now you know Bad Chili as well as anyone. If you have the nerve to attend an event featuring the quintet, you'll drink as much as the rest of us! For booking information or to just jawbone a little, call Crawdad at 505.257.4031.

Humanitarian Relief

There is no doubt that the effects of hurricane Katrina (I'm sure glad they're female again) will, in some way, impact everyone in the country. The storm has already destroyed billions of dollars of personal property and left thousands devastated and homeless. If you have not yet made a donation a good place to start is with the American Red Cross.
There is a movement across the United States to help house those affected by this tragedy. Many all over the country are generously willing to donate homes, apartments and mobile homes to those in immediate need. It has been suggested that some care in the selection of recipients may be in order to keep folks from finding out that they are actually housing looters and rapists instead of distressed flood victims. At first glance, that may seem reasonable enough. But if you think about it, here's a chance to rise way above just one disaster.
The crime rate in some urban areas is staggering. Imagine redistributing some of the burden to more rural areas. The place to start is New Orleans. Imagine a small town official calling the mayor of New Orleans with an offer to take a half dozen looters off his hands. "We've got a good police force and we can handle 'em even if they have baseball bats." he might say. A local civic organization could volunteer to take an arsonist or two. The offers to help evenly distribute the crime rate would pour in, not only for New Orleans but other crime ridden communities.
The mayor of Crystal Forks, North Dakota would dial up the mayor of say...New York City. "We'll take a dozen of anything ya' got except murderers. We don't need none o' them murderers!" The potential here is unlimited.
This could evolve into a national crime barter system. One rapist is worth six jay walkers or two cat burglars for one armed robber. You get the idea. Rural America reaches out to the beleaguered cities to help share the national disaster of rising crime. Now that would be humanitarian aid.

Calvary...ATTENTION!

This past weekend celebrated the 150th anniversary of historic Ft. Stanton, New Mexico. Ft. Stanton, Inc. that operates the fort and spearheads the Ft. Stanton restoration effort sponsored an intriguing look at life during the long history of the facility. During the Civil War, Ft. Stanton was temporarily occupied by Confederate Troops and the re-occupied by the Union in 1862. The anniversary celebration took place August 13th and 14th, 2005. Historians, re-enacters, musicians and period craftsmen joined together to create the time machine that transported those in attendance to eras gone by. Tents of soldiers and settlers lined the main street for the two day event, and presented an amazingly real atmosphere. There were moments when, just for a second, this was the past! There were military and atillery drills with vendors demonstrating the crafts of the period. Blacksmiths, weavers, candlemakers and even a genuine tin type photographer added the trimmings which helped fuel the suspension of disbelief. Fife and drummers marched, mounted units performed. For a moment, this was Ft. Stanton in it's finest hour.
Throughout the festivities it was curious to note that I heard no one in all of the demonstrations and awards that was aware of the word "cavalry". Everyone was talking about "Calvary demonstrations", "Calvary hats", "Calvary units". Was there to be a re-enactment of Christ's Crucifixion? Had this become a religious event? Not even Tony Hoffman, the energetic bard of Ft. Stanton, Inc. had the slightest idea that the cavalry was a mounted military unit and Calvary was the mountain on which Christ was crucified. Not exactly the mettle of true historians.
The event drew thousands that were treated to a real "step back". Congratulations to the many staff, volunteers and friends of Ft. Stanton on making the event a great success!

Air Head

Ruidoso, New Mexico averages only 2 days per year over 90 degrees. Because Ruidoso's climate is so moderate, many of the cabins, condos and homes for rent in the area do not have air conditioning.

When you visit Ruidoso during the summer months, do not assume that all accommodations automatically have cooling systems. If cooler temperatures are important to you, ask up front if the property you're considering has air. And note the differences between the types of "air conditioning".

Good old central, refridgerated air conditioning remains the favorite. It provides consistent, whole house comfort. A window air conditioning unit also provides refridgerated air, but just to a section of your rental. It may provide just enough cool in just the right area to help insure your comfort. Evaporative cooling (aka swamp coolers) are an effective way to cool areas in a extremely dry environment. Evaporating water can provide suprising cooling results in a desert climate.

With a temperate climate, air conditioning should not be a major consideration for most when visiting Ruidoso. The warm dry days and the rather crisp evenings make for some of the most ideal weather known to man. Add the consistent mountain breezes and you have an ideal climate for your summertime...or anytime...visit.

Ruidoso Central Reservations Website 

With reservations...

Ruidoso has all the magic that the New Mexico slogan promises, truly...the Land of Enchantment! Because Ruidoso is a resort community, accommodations may be tricky at peak periods. No problem, if you keep a few simple facts in mind.

1) Plan EARLY. A lot of people are amazed that some lodging can be full a year or more in advance of arrival. If you're headed for Ruidoso during summer or winter weekends, advance reservations can be a lifesaver!
2) Have the exact information regarding your exact needs and dates. Don't rely on "We'll be coming in the weekend of the 4th". Be specific... "We'll be arriving on the 3rd and departing on the 7th" will leave no margin for error. Have the exact number of people handy. Strange as it may seem, children are actually people and do count. If you'll be using a credit card to make the reservations, have it nearby.
3) Ruidoso presents a LOT of lodging choices. In addition to a hotel you may choose to stay in a cabin, lodge, condo or vacation home. If you're completely lost on making a decision try the service offered by Ruidoso Central Reservations. They make reservations for many types of lodging throughout Ruidoso and can help match your exact expectations with the perfect accommodations. They can also provide a depth of information on area activities and attractions.
4) Make sure that you understand the policies and procedures for the accommodations you've secured. Find out about check-in and check-out times as well as the cancellation policy. Cancellation can vary widely and ranges from just 24 hours prior to arrival up to 14 days.
5) Keep records. File documents in a folder for the trip. Have directions, confirmation data and the name and local phone number for where you will be staying. I've seen many souls wandering Ruidoso trying to figure out where they are supposed to stay because they've lost their lodging information. Enjoy your stay! Don't allow these inconveninces to cost even one minute of your precious Ruidoso vacation.

These simple tips can save you a lot of time and energy when visiting Ruidoso. Along with a little common sense, you'll insure a carefree stay in enchanting Ruidoso.

CT Harrison 

Waiting

I first met CT Harrision in Ruidoso, New Mexico. He had answered a help wanted ad in the local newspaper. He was confident, carried himself well and seemed like he'd be a good employee. He learned quickly and soon was able to do the job well. Occasionally though, he did seem distracted and not quite focused on his job. Then again, at that time in his life CT had a lot to occupy his attention. CT and his wife were near the end of their relationship...something that can really sap your time and energy. CT just kind of left suddenly...here one day, gone another. I guess I really didn't understand why.

Part of the reason may have been that CT was also occupied with his real love, music. Fleeing Ruidoso, CT headed for Florida and then Nashville. Once in Nashville the pieces started to come together. The product of this transition is a Country CD entitled "Waiting For The Other Heart to Fall". On it, CT demonstrates his considerable vocal and percussion talents with the same confidence that I had seen before. The songs are first rate, with one even broaching the subject of child abuse.

It's good to see the talent ooze out of CT and I suspect there's even more inside. Give the material a listen on his new website.

Cedar Creek 2001 - John T. Soden 

Ruidoso in the Summer

No matter where you stay or what type of lodging you choose, you'll have many opportunity to enjoy the wooded, mountain areas of Ruidoso. Majestic vistas require a little thought and a little effort to maintain. Please try to keep the following in mind when traveling in Lincoln County.

Ruidoso is in the middle of the Lincoln National Forest, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service operating out of the Smokey Bear Ranger Station. Avoid being corrected by the locals...it's Smokey Bear and NOT Smokey "The" Bear. You'll avoid the standard reprimand of, "You don't say Easter The Bunny or Santa The Claus, do you?" Consider yourself warned.

Ruidoso is also in the desert, making forest or wild fires of constant concern. When you come to Ruidoso, be prepared to follow the local fire regulations in effect during your visit. This always means no fireworks, and at times may include no campfires, no smoking outoors and restrictions on grilling with charcoal. Naturally, care and common sense are always in order when handling fire outside. Make sure things are completely out and ashes are drowned or quite cold before disposing of them.

Equally important is avoiding impact with local wildlife. The deer are protected and are quite brazen. Be prepared to have traffic suddenly come to a halt to let a group cross the road...especially in the hours around dusk. Please be careful and dispose of trash. Failure to place garbage, especially containing food scraps, into a proper receptacle can cause situations with the bears. And whatever you do, DON'T feed the bears.

Just keep these simple guidelines in mind when visiting Ruidoso. It will make your stay more enjoyable and insure that Ruidoso will be the same for your next visit.

Technology - Isn't It Wonderful?

Ahem! Let me clear my throat! Proudly announcing that Visiting Ruidoso is now available via RSS feed. RSS is an exciting new medium for the delivery of content via PDA's, cell phones and web sites. You subscribe to an RSS feed from an aggregator that captures thousands of RSS feeds and catalogs them for you. You simply pick an area of interest and then indicate which of the feeds available you would like to receive. Through the use of an RSS reader, you can view the feeds that you have elected to receive.

One of the many sources to subscribe to RSS feeds is Yahoo, through a personalized "My Yahoo" page. You can select to have horoscopes, recipes, sports scores and other RSS feeds appear on your personalized page. If you already have a My Yahoo page, you can add this feed by simply pressing the Yahoo button on the right side of this page.

Staying in Ruidoso During the Motorcycle Rally

We're in the middle of the Aspen Cash Rally here in Ruidoso. I sit on Mechem Drive (Highway 48) and the satisfying sound of engines from all over the country punctuates the afternoon. If you plan on visiting Ruidoso during either Aspen Cash or Golden Aspen Motorcycle Rallies here are a few tips to make your visit more enjoyable.

1) Ruidoso is in the mountains. This means we have a LOT of rather steep inclines, many of them with gravel surfaces. Some riders prefer level access...some don't. Ask if your accommodations have easy access for a bike.
2) Do you have enough parking? Not only for bikes but for trailers and other vehicles which still leaves enough room for easy maneuvering.
3) The physical location of a property in Ruidoso is not too terribly important. At under 8000 inhabitants no where in Ruidoso is more than 10 minutes away. If you have a preference, fine. If not, you're never far from the action.
4) Book early. The may Aspen Cash Rally is smaller than the Golden Aspen in September...BUT is growing rapidly. Housing is easier to find in the spring, but still plan on an early decision to have the best selection.
5) Area lodgers will frequently raise rates during special events. One way to beat the high cost of individual hotel rooms is to choose a vacation rental. Whether you choose a cabin, condo or vacation home, you can stay in Ruidoso for as low as $21./night per person!
6) How do I know I'll be happy with my lodging? You don't. Choose wisely. If you're looking for a hotel the chains are always an obvious choice, but there are a lot of wonderful local properties as well. Ruidoso has a unique Central Reservations agency. They match your requirements with local availability and can steer you toward the reputable local establishments. If you're looking for a cabin or condo, consider a reputable property management firm over an individual owner. This assures you of a clean, up-to-date unit that meets the standards of the management company. If you're within easy driving distance plan on visiting Ruidoso prior to the event and touring your choices. Nothing like a little hands-on! If the unit is constantly "unavailable" for inspection or they try to discourage you from this the course is clear. Look elsewhere.

You'll find that your mountain experience will be even more enjoyable if you take a moment to do some simple planning.

Texas Treehouse 

Texas Treehouse Deck 

Tantilizing Treetops

One of the more unique places to stay in Ruidoso is the Texas Treehouse. A true all log home, the Treehouse was built by N & H Log Homes of Ruidoso. The firm is responsible for some of the areas most popular log homes.

The Texas Treehouse is located in Ruidoso's picturesque Upper Canyon, with the Rio Ruidoso River not far away. At 2400 square feet, the Treehouse can accommodate up to ten people. Not only is there a spectacular view...the home also sports a hot tub, wrap around deck, wood burning fireplace, Culligan water system and every bit of the rustic, mountain atmosphere you'd expect in Ruidoso.

Naturally this unique area accommodation is very popular so plan on booking early.

Flying J Wranglers 

Git along little doogies!

The Memorial Day weekend in Ruidoso carries a lot of excitement. The start of horse racing season, a large muti-state softball tournament and the usual complement of folks just coming to enjoy a mild climate in spectacular surroundings.

One of the noteable events taking place that weekend is the season kick-off for the gang at the Flying J. Ranch. The Flying J features chuckwagon supper and an outstanding western stage show. Come with the family to the miniature western town, Bonita City. You'll enjoy shops, an ice cream parlor and of course the obligatory gunfight. Make sure you come early for the pony rides that will delight the youngsters.

After the "seconds welcome" BBQ dinner you'll enjoy a polished, entertaining show by the Flying J Wranglers. Sit back, relax and enjoy the sweet sounds of James and Cindy Hobbs and the talented Wranglers. You won't be disappointed (you'll come back again and again).

Howdy with a dog in the back!

One of the things you'll notice right off is how friendly everyone is in Southern New Mexico. It's not uncommon to have most everyone you encounter wish you a "Good morning" or "How's it goin'" or "Howdy". The city, rural areas...just about everywhere you go people are genuine, real and friendly.

The rural areas have their own form of "Howdy" and that's the New Mexico Wave. When you're out for a country drive, you'll find a lot of the oncoming traffic acknowleging you with a wave. This can be a wholehearted, out-the-window wave. Very physical. Sometimes the greeting will be more subtle. A finger raised off the steering wheel (usually the index finger) or a slight tip of the hat...but a heartfelt greeting just the same.

You can imagine that New Mexico certainly has it's share of pickup trucks. They come in all sizes, all colors. If you have a pickup is is absolutely necessary to have a dog. Dogs also come in all sizes and colors. Some of the "pickup canines" have the luxury of free reign in the back. Others are tethered by chain or leash. But all are enjoying a spin with their people up front and barking a friendly "Howdy" from Ruidoso!

Starry Night in Lincoln - John T. Soden 

Beam me up Scotty

The skys have fascinated man since the dawn of time. Very little has changed, with the exception that these days it's highly conceivable that man will reach the planets (if not the stars) in the near future.

And where better to view the heavens than in the crisp, clear skys of New Mexico. Tonight I'll be attending the fourth annual "Starry Night in Lincoln" event at the pageant grounds in Lincoln, New Mexico. The evening begins shortly before dusk. Prior to the beginning of the program we'll get to sample the local fare...Hamburgers and Lamburgers (good local lamb) and perhaps even catch a cold one at the historic Wortley Hotel (Billy The Kid slept here) made famous during the Lincoln County Wars.

At dusk, teachers and students from New Mexico University will present a program on our solar system and beyond. After the formal part of the program it's "hands on" for all in attendance on a wide assortment of telescopes provided by the school. It's a fun way to really put things into perspective as we try to imagine exactly where man fits into this celestrial crossword.

The event is sponsored by REDTT, an organization dedicated to promoting tourism in rural parts of New Mexico. Other events include Fiber Fest and Arts In The Orchard. It's a great way to prepare to "go where no one has gone before"! See you behind the lens!

Mark Remington 

Talent in no shortage on the mountain

One of the nice things about Ruidoso and the area is the large number of talented musicians. One of these is Mark Remington. Mark fell in love with Ruidoso in the early 1980's and several years later, decided to make it his home.

After living in Ruidoso for a brief while, Mark became so inspired by Sierra Blanca or "White Mountain" that he wrote a musical tribute to the area, oddly entitled "White Mountain" which he featured on his album "Generations". Session musicians were not hard to find. Mark's dad Herb Remington, Country Music Hall of Fame steel guitarist called upon several friends including fellow Hall of Famer, violinist (fiddle player to some) Johnny Gimble to help out.

Mark plays throughout the area, including occasional gigs at Ruidoso's Pasta Cafe. Two years ago, the songwriter became so concerned with Wild Fire Prevention that he penned a new ode to "Smokey Bear". The song was so well received locally, that Mark decided to send it to the Forest Service in Washington, DC who embraced the song as a contemporary reminder of our responsibility to our forests.

If you run across Mark in your Ruidoso travels invest the time to sit down, listen and enjoy. You'll be glad you did!

Relax in style