Milburn Stone and Amanda Blake, "Doc" and "Miss Kitty" in the TV western "Gunsmoke" starred in the Truth or Consequences Fiesta parade circa 1955 Photo courtesy Geronimo Springs Museum, T or C, NM

The Ralph Edwards Fiesta: How Hot Springs, NM, Became Truth or Consequences

This month-long celebration commemorates the linking of the town of Hot Springs to the popular nationwide radio show "Truth or Consequences." When the town changed its name to Truth or Consequences in 1950, one official said "It is the truth that we have the health-giving waters here. The consequences are that people get results." Since then, the original host of the show, Ralph Edwards, has returned with his wife each year to be honored at the fiesta named after him. Marked by parades, carnivals, rodeos, boat races, fiddle contests, a golf and tennis tournament, and a celebrity stage show and dinner, the event celebrates Edwards and his show for providing the publicity that made the town a successful resort.

Originally submitted by: Joe Skeen, Representative (2nd District).

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