CHS "Hotshot" Headed to Citrus Bowl, Tonight's Agenda, Forest Can Do's, The Bear Story, Top Comments, Cloudcroft's Ballot, and More
Every trail tells a story. Stay informed with the Reader, the Voice of the Mountain
CHS Mascot Headed to the Citrus Bowl
Cloudcroft’s own Alyssa Singer clawed her way to mascot fame—she’s set to join 50 elite mascots for the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl halftime show in Orlando, Florida on December 31, 2025.
As Hotshot the Bear Mascot, Singer was chosen through a competitive tryout at cheerleader camp, earning Mascot All-American honors as one of the top 10% in the country. For the Florida-based halftime show, Alyssa will rehearse for a week before wowing 60,000 fans.
So, when you spot Hotshot tossing out pawsome high-fives around Cloudcroft, make sure to cheer—she’ll be representing our hometown spirit on a national stage.
School Board August Meeting
The Reader attended last night’s school board meeting, loaded with policy discussions involving A.I. usage, bonds, and more. Look for our report later in the week.
Your Wednesday Review continues after this brief message. Thank you to our sponsor, Cloudcroft Sandwich Shop:
Voc Meets Tonight: Agenda Highlights
Here’s what’s up for discussion/action at 6:00 p.m. at the Village Chambers:
P&Z items: Setbacks, replats, and lot line adjustments are on the docket.
Hiring: Two police officers are up for approval.
Appointment: Keith Hamilton is nominated to fill the vacant Trustee seat.
Your Wednesday Review continues after this brief message. Thank you to our sponsor, The Elk Shed:
Forest Closures: Do’s and Don’ts
The Reader recently reported on Bluff Springs and other forest closures.
What’s allowed in the mapped closure areas?
Do (From the Lincoln National Forest Facebook Page):
Forest Service roads remain open for motorized travel within the mapped closure area.
Trails remain open for hiking, horseback riding, and other non-motorized use (see Motor Vehicle Use Map for designations).
Trails designated for motorized use including dirt bikes and OHV’s less than 50 inches in width remain open.
Developed campgrounds are open for overnight stays.
Don’t:
Camp (no dispersed camping allowed)
Drive or park any motor vehicles in the closure area—includes off-highway vehicles (OHVs)
Build, maintain, or use any campfires, even in stone rings
Pro Tip:
Check for signs at the entrance and visit the official Forest Service site for the latest updates and maps.
Top Comment from Meredith S. on Facebook:
“There are only like 3 or 4 employees that patrol for the entire mountain chain since the (USFS) job cuts from the current administration. How do you propose that they sit around the forest and watch (OHVs) do this when they have a very large forest to patrol?”
Forest in Retrograde: Sunspot Solar Observatory Scopes Out Marketing Opportunity
Top Comment from Liz R. on Facebook:
“The bear did not at any time show signs of aggressive behavior in the video. Hunting down this animal the way they did is very disturbing. What’s next? Are they going to kill every bear that wanders into the village?!”
Pickleball Courts Closed for Resurfacing
Cloudcroft’s recently built Pickleball courts are getting resurfaced this week, and are closed to the public. Don’t worry, you can still grab a game at the courts next door—just bring your net.
To stay up to date with Pickleball play times in Cloudcroft, join the 310+ members of the Pickleball Addicts of Cloudcroft (The PAC) online.
The Reader will continue to report developments on this story.
Get Your Game On: PTO Fundraiser at Ski Cloudcroft
Bring cash and a lawn chair! Proceeds benefit the Parent Teacher Organization of Cloudcroft Elementary and Middle Schools, a volunteer group that helps organize, fund, and operate the Fall Festival, Scholastic Book Fair, Teacher Appreciation Week and Events, the Christmas Party, and more.
High Altitude Classic: Sept. 7th
Cloudcroft’s popular annual mountain bike race is back!
Your Wednesday Review continues after this brief message. Thanks to our sponsors, Miyah Beug and Cindy Preslar:
On the Campaign Trail?
On the ballot for Cloudcroft Mayor, Trustee, Judge, or School Board in the 2025 local election?
Join Leadership Cloudcroft on Wednesday, August 27th, between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. at The Distillery for Meet the Candidates Day.
If you’re running for a local seat, this is your chance to introduce your platform, share your perspective, and take questions from a sharp, engaged cohort ready to dig into the issues that matter.
To reserve a short speaking slot, email meetme@cloudcroftreader.com.
Attendance is limited to invited speakers and the Leadership Cloudcroft cohort and board.
Reader Questions Lead to Cloudcroft Ballot Corrections
Otero County election proclamation first listed just two trustee seats. Turns out, three are up for grabs.
Check out Reader videos on YouTube for short reports, mini docs, and more.
Throwback:
Cloudcroft Bear Pride: New Mural Thanks to State Grant
Samantha Odom continues to “paint the town” with another series of murals funded by the Creative Industries Grant Awards, this time at the Cloudcroft High School Gymnasium, titled “Bear Pride.”
Thank you to our sponsor, Ski Cloudcroft:
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In the heart of downtown Cloudcroft, New MexicoTularosa Communications
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Landmark Choice Among New Mexico ResortsSacramento Camp & Conference Center
Come to the Mountain — Let God Refresh Your SoulNew Mexico Rails-to-Trails Association
We Convert Abandoned Railroad Lines Into Recreational TrailsLaughing Leaf Dispensary
Discover a world of wellness at Laughing LeafInstant Karma
Adventure Within: Transformative Yoga, Ayurvedic Wisdom, Nourishing Organics, Fair Trade BoutiqueOff the Beaten Path
Eclectic gifts & original artworkFuture Real Estate
Raise your expectations.Ski Cloudcroft
Pizza and Summer Tubing start July Fourth!Cloudcroft Therapeutic Massage
Maximizing Movement, Quality of Life ImprovementHigh Altitude
Your favorite little outdoor outfitter on Burro AvenueBlushing Yucca Esthetics
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