It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Las Cruces, NM is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“I'm so impressed with the care my Mom has received from ABC! Their staff are”
“I'm so impressed with the care my Mom has received from ABC! Their staff are”
“Phenomenal staff. Attentive. Caring. Professional. They match caregivers perfectly based on our needs. 10/10 I”
“Great company to work with they super nice I just wish I have more hours”
“Mrs. Grace C. Is the sweetest person working at/for Always Best Care is an amazing”
“The staff at Always Best took great care of my older sister. They were kind”
“The staff at this establishment are top notch. They boast an impressive level of professionalism”
“The staff at this establishment are top notch. They boast an impressive level of professionalism”
“Extremely recommend this family owned reputable company that offers excellent senior care services. Owners are”
“Extremely recommend this family owned reputable company that offers excellent senior care services. Owners are”
“Reliable, professional, responsible and above and beyond senior care services agency.”
“Reliable, professional, responsible and above and beyond senior care services agency.”
“I love, being part of this great Team we have!! I am a caregiver and”
“I love, being part of this great Team we have!! I am a caregiver and”
“They are honest and they do everything they can to satisfy your requests! They always”
“This agency is full of sweet people who have a real heart for helping the”
“Always Care Senior services is committed to provide the best care for our family. Awesome”
“I love working here! The boss and supervisor are constantly checking up on both caregivers”
“I really enjoy being a caregiver with Always Best Care. I'm thankful for the opportunity”
“I am very pleased that I chose Always Best Care Senior Services for our parents.”
“The staff and everyone at this agency was amazing. They were professional and yet very”
“The staff and everyone at this agency was amazing. They were professional and yet very”
“I love working here! The boss and supervisor are constantly checking up on both caregivers”
“I really enjoy being a caregiver with Always Best Care. I'm thankful for the opportunity”
“I am very pleased that I chose Always Best Care Senior Services for our parents.”
“Always Care Senior services is committed to provide the best care for our family. Awesome”
“I am a current client of this provider Our family is been so pleased with the”
“Carlos and his team do amazing work. I highly recommend their service. Outstanding!!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services has an extremely knowledgeable and caring team. The level of”
“I'm so impressed with the care my Mom has received from ABC! Their staff are caring and gentle with her, very attentive to her needs and show this is more than just a job, it's a calling for them. Their behind the scenes staff are outstanding, great in communication and flexibility. We really appreciate ABC and would give them more stars if we could!”
“I'm so impressed with the care my Mom has received from ABC! Their staff are caring and gentle with her, very attentive to her needs and show this is more than just a job, it's a calling for them. Their behind the scenes staff are outstanding, great in communication and flexibility. We really appreciate ABC and would give them more stars if we could!”
“Phenomenal staff. Attentive. Caring. Professional. They match caregivers perfectly based on our needs. 10/10 I will talk about them to everyone I know. Las Cruces was in dire need for a Senior Care group who truly does have a passion for us.”
“Great company to work with they super nice I just wish I have more hours and they are super understandable, I don’t want to go :( I just need more hours”
“Mrs. Grace C. Is the sweetest person working at/for Always Best Care is an amazing Experience. Thank you Grace for the wonderful support u give.. She is great at communicating! Thank you for the Extra care giver TRAINING.”
“The staff at Always Best took great care of my older sister. They were kind and compassionate. They went out of their several times to take care of her, and they were very respectful and responsive to our concerns. I would highly recommend using them.”
“The staff at this establishment are top notch. They boast an impressive level of professionalism and competence that make them a pleasure to interact with. Highly recommended!”
“The staff at this establishment are top notch. They boast an impressive level of professionalism and competence that make them a pleasure to interact with. Highly recommended!”
“Extremely recommend this family owned reputable company that offers excellent senior care services. Owners are A1, providers are exceptional and staff is extremely knowledgeable. I can’t say enough but positive feedback. Will really recommend this company for all your senior needs and services.”
“Extremely recommend this family owned reputable company that offers excellent senior care services. Owners are A1, providers are exceptional and staff is extremely knowledgeable. I can’t say enough but positive feedback. Will really recommend this company for all your senior needs and services.”
“Reliable, professional, responsible and above and beyond senior care services agency.”
“Reliable, professional, responsible and above and beyond senior care services agency.”
“I love, being part of this great Team we have!! I am a caregiver and love spending time with the elderly and there families!!”
“I love, being part of this great Team we have!! I am a caregiver and love spending time with the elderly and there families!!”
“They are honest and they do everything they can to satisfy your requests! They always come through with providing the best quality home care for your loved one! I highly recommend them for senior care services! They truly deserve the name of, “Always Best Care Senior Services of El Paso.””
“This agency is full of sweet people who have a real heart for helping the elderly. They are so helpful. There is no one else that I would rather work with.”
“Always Care Senior services is committed to provide the best care for our family. Awesome and friendly staff. Highly recommend!”
“I love working here! The boss and supervisor are constantly checking up on both caregivers and family to make sure we have the equipment and support we need. They truly stand by their name. If your looking for a care agency for your loved ones. Look no further because I truly enjoy working for them and I know they hire caregivers who love their job. Patients are our number one concern and the care we provide should be the best. I have learned so much working for ABC Senior Services and I’m grateful for their support.”
“I really enjoy being a caregiver with Always Best Care. I'm thankful for the opportunity to help seniors in making their lives a little easier!”
“I am very pleased that I chose Always Best Care Senior Services for our parents. Their commitment to client care and integrity of their staff make families of loved ones feel completely at ease. Thank you!”
“The staff and everyone at this agency was amazing. They were professional and yet very personable. My father-in-law just turned 100 and my mother-in-law is 96, and together they can be a handful. I would highly recommend Always Best Care, without any hesitation.”
“The staff and everyone at this agency was amazing. They were professional and yet very personable. My father-in-law just turned 100 and my mother-in-law is 96, and together they can be a handful. I would highly recommend Always Best Care, without any hesitation.”
“I love working here! The boss and supervisor are constantly checking up on both caregivers and family to make sure we have the equipment and support we need. They truly stand by their name. If your looking for a care agency for your loved ones. Look no further because I truly enjoy working for them and I know they hire caregivers who love their job. Patients are our number one concern and the care we provide should be the best. I have learned so much working for ABC Senior Services and I’m grateful for their support.”
“I really enjoy being a caregiver with Always Best Care. I'm thankful for the opportunity to help seniors in making their lives a little easier!”
“I am very pleased that I chose Always Best Care Senior Services for our parents. Their commitment to client care and integrity of their staff make families of loved ones feel completely at ease. Thank you!”
“Always Care Senior services is committed to provide the best care for our family. Awesome and friendly staff. Highly recommend!”
“I am a current client of this provider Our family is been so pleased with the care and attention we have received for our Mother. Our worries when we cannot be near both our parents has dwindled to almost nothing. We are very happy that we decided on Always Best Care. The people that help us are an excellent team that work with us and keep the lines of communication open. The y always have answers to our questions and make the whole family feel safe. Thanks again A.B.Care. The Rodriguez Family”
“Carlos and his team do amazing work. I highly recommend their service. Outstanding!!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services has an extremely knowledgeable and caring team. The level of attention to detail is extraordinary. The services they offer not only to seniors but to our community is unmatched. If you are searching for someone that can get the job done effectively, look no further. I highly recommend doing business with them.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Las Cruces, NM, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Las Cruces, NM understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Las Cruces, NM 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Las Cruces Bulletin photo by Algernon D’AmmassaPosted Tuesday, December 24, 2024 2:10 pm Algernon D'Ammassa Las Cruces BulletinThe city of Las Cruces violated New Mexico’s Open Meetings Act throughout the process of selecting its new city manager earlier in 2024, an investigation by the state Department of Justice found.In fact, based on public records and official meetings, the state found that city manager Ikani Taumoepeau was never formally appointed, though the council approved an employment agr...
Las Cruces Bulletin photo by Algernon D’Ammassa
Posted Tuesday, December 24, 2024 2:10 pm
Algernon D'Ammassa Las Cruces Bulletin
The city of Las Cruces violated New Mexico’s Open Meetings Act throughout the process of selecting its new city manager earlier in 2024, an investigation by the state Department of Justice found.
In fact, based on public records and official meetings, the state found that city manager Ikani Taumoepeau was never formally appointed, though the council approved an employment agreement with him including an annual $216,000 salary.
As a result, “the City Council engaged in closed deliberations and invalid (final) actions prior to the single, open public meeting held to discuss the hiring of a new city manager on April 1, 2024. These actions deprived the public of any meaningful opportunity to participate in, or even witness the deliberations on, a question of significant public importance.”
That conclusion was stated in a determination letter following a months-long investigation by the Government Counsel and Accountability Division, under the New Mexico Attorney General. The letter also indicated that, during the investigation, city staff had acknowledged errors and taken corrective actions. The Department of Justice is authorized to enforce the law through district court, and even to pursue misdemeanor charges, although that is rare.
The office reviewed information gathered by Bulletin news staff, videos and agendas of city council meetings, press releases, text messages, resolutions approved by councilors and reports published by the Bulletin.
City Manager Ifo Pili resigned from the city in February after three and a half years for a new job in Utah. The process of choosing his successor moved quickly and mostly out of public view, and ended with the selection of Ikani Taumoepeau, an assistant city manager who had begun his career working under Pili in Utah before serving as city manager of Clayton, Calif. from 2019 to 2020. He reunited with Pili and took a position with the city of Las Cruces in 2021.
When Pili’s resignation was announced on Feb. 28, the city stated that internal applications for the job were underway, an indication that a decision had been made to hire Pili’s replacement internally rather than launch an executive search.
At the time, city spokesperson Mandy Guss told the Bulletin, “The city manager hiring process was suggested by Ifo, who spoke individually with the city council members and got their OK to move forward.”
Investigator Blaine Moffat wrote in the Dec. 20 determination letter that the city council, Mayor Eric Enriquez and Pili had reached “a private consensus to accept internal applications” through what is commonly called a rolling quorum.
The law states that any meeting of a quorum, meaning the minimum number of members of a municipal government required for a legal business meeting, must comply with the requirements of official meetings of public governing bodies, including advance notice and publications of an agenda.
The law allows public bodies to meet in closed session for certain topics, such as certain personnel matters or confidential discussions with legal counsel.
The city had argued that no policy vote took place, and that no violation of the law had therefore occurred. However, as the city manager is the one position appointed by the city council, Moffat determined that the selection process needed to be discussed in open session, “regardless of any formal votes occurring.”
Besides the scope of the search, Moffat wrote that the March 18 selection of three finalists for the job in a closed meeting also violated the Open Meetings Act. While the law permits discussions of hiring, firing, promotions and similar matters out of public view, Moffat emphasized that that pertains to discussions of individual public employees. The selection of finalists “must have occurred in an open meeting, as these are matters of public business and affect the public,” Moffat wrote.
Similarly, the office determined that the selection of Taumoepeau in a closed session on March 20 was also illegal. Text messages between councilors and Taumoepeau indicated the selection and offer were made in closed session, as well as a press release from the city on March 21 announcing the council had made an offer. The mayor stated in that press release, “…the decision was not easy.”
By the April 1 meeting where councilors approved Taumoepeau’s contract, Moffat wrote, “it was clear that the employment agreement … had already been negotiated, as the contract was already drafted and ready for the City Council’s approval. The City Council never publicly discussed the selection of Mr. Taumoepeau, only the employment agreement.”
“The City Council’s lack of compliance (with open meetings law) deprived the public of information and the opportunity to participate in the affairs of government and the official acts of public officers and employees who represent them,” Moffat wrote.
It also rendered the process legally invalid, starting with the decision to limit the scope to internal candidates, the letter stated.
The GCA investigation also found that required public statements about what was discussed in closed session had not been made promptly, as the law directs, while noting the council had said that arose from an error “due to misrepresentation of the requirement by staff.”
The GCA offered the city two ways to cure the violations.
One option is to hold a properly noticed open meeting “summarizing all the discussions and comments made outside of a public meeting in violation of OMA, and ratifying the actions by a public and open vote of a majority of the City Council.” The discussion would need to address all of the defects in the process dating back to the decision to limit the search to internal candidates. This would not have the effect of validating the decisions retroactively, Moffat underscored, and the approvals would take effect on the day of the new meeting. The implications of that on matters including the employment agreement were not immediately clear.
Another option offered to the city was starting the entire process over and conducting all deliberations and votes in lawful public meetings.
In a written response, City Attorney Brad Douglas did not indicate which option the city would choose.
“We will take immediate action to remedy the deficiencies the (Attorney General) identified. We will take this as a learning opportunity and make improvements in the future. As the AG acknowledged, we have already made corrective action regarding the closed meeting statement requirements.”
The New Mexico Foundation for Open Government praised the state’s conclusions, stating in a comment that “the Las Cruces City Council violated the letter and spirit of the law when it engaged in closed discussions that resulted in final decisions as to the scope of the search for a new city manager, the finalists for the position, and ultimately the final candidate for the position.”
NMFOG legal director Amanda Lavin said the foundation “agrees that mere public ratification of a decision made behind closed doors is insufficient to comply with OMA, and that the City of Las Cruces should take the recommended steps to remedy the violations. NMFOG appreciates that the NMDOJ has outlined options for the City Council to remedy the violations and is prepared to enforce OMA in the event no remedial action is taken. NMFOG looks forward to seeing the City address the improper actions taken during closed meetings, and appreciates the Las Cruces Bulletin’s vigilance in bringing these important matters to the attention of the public and the NMDOJ.”
Read the New Mexico Department of Justice’s determination letter here:
Open Meetings Act, violated, City Manager Ikani Taumoepeau
What is the best internet provider in Las Cruces, New Mexico?Xfinity is CNET's top pick for the best internet service provider in Las Cruces, thanks to its wide availability throughout the city. It’s also the only ...
Xfinity is CNET's top pick for the best internet service provider in Las Cruces, thanks to its wide availability throughout the city. It’s also the only cable connection available. But if you want the cheapest and fastest internet plans in Las Cruces, Xfinity is the provider for you. Plan prices go up after a year or two, so be prepared for a bill increase though. However, despite the increase, some plans still offer a decent deal even at the regular rate. This cable giant has also made strides in its customer satisfaction ratings.
If Xfinity doesn't serve your address, you can pick between fixed wireless or satellite internet. While more susceptible to network disruption than wired connections, and slower than Xfinity, they're decent alternatives. T-Mobile Home Internet is our favorite wireless provider in the area, and you can get great discounts for bundling with an eligible cellphone plan.
Need speed? Xfinity offers the fastest internet plan in the city, with download speeds of 1,200 megabits per second for $80 monthly. The cost per Mbps of its top-end plan is a very cheap 7 cents per Mbps. And if you want to save money, Xfinity also has a $20 monthly plan for 150Mbps.
Source: CNET analysis of provider data.
Most internet options in Las Cruces start at around $43 a month, but a few ISPs offer cheaper options. The cheapest internet offering in the city is Xfinity's $20-a-month plan for download speeds of 150Mbps. If you're looking for more speed, Xfinity also has a 300Mbps plan for just $15 more. Verizon and T-Mobile also offer eligible mobile customers discounts and may knock $10 to $20 off your monthly bill.
Source: CNET analysis of provider data.
The best internet deals and top promotions in Las Cruces depend on what discounts are available during a given time. Most deals are short-lived, but we look frequently for the latest offers.
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Las Cruces internet providers, such as T-Mobile Home Internet, Xfinity and Verizon 5G Home Internet, may offer lower introductory pricing or streaming add-ons for a limited time. Others, like Starlink, run the same standard pricing year-round.
For a more extensive list of promos, check out our guide on the best internet deals.
In the latest Ookla speed test data, Las Cruces had a fixed median download speed of 273Mbps. That's not bad, especially considering the state of New Mexico rang in with a speed of 185Mbps. Nearby cities like Albuquerque and Sante Fe also couldn't match Las Cruces, coming in with 264Mbps and 251Mbps, respectively. Rio Rancho took home the trophy for top median speeds with 291Mbps.
Source: CNET analysis of provider data.
Most internet connection plans can now handle basic productivity and communication tasks. If you're looking for an internet plan that can accommodate videoconferencing, streaming video or gaming, you'll have a better experience with a more robust connection. Here's an overview of the recommended minimum download speeds for various applications, according to the FCC. Note that these are only guidelines and that internet speed, service and performance vary by connection type, provider and address.
For more information, refer to our guide on how much internet speed you really need.
Internet service providers are numerous and regional. Unlike the latest smartphone, laptop, router or kitchen tool, it’s impractical to personally test every ISP in a given city. What’s our approach? We start by researching the pricing, availability and speed information drawing on our own historical ISP data, the provider sites and mapping information from the Federal Communications Commission at FCC.gov.
It doesn’t end there: We go to the FCC’s website to check our data and ensure we consider every ISP that provides service in an area. We also input local addresses on provider websites to find specific options for residents. We look at sources, including the American Customer Satisfaction Index and J.D. Power, to evaluate how happy customers are with an ISP’s service. ISP plans and prices are subject to frequent changes; all information provided is accurate as of the time of publication.
Once we have this localized information, we ask three main questions:
While the answer to those questions is often layered and complex, the providers who come closest to “yes” on all three are the ones we recommend. When selecting the cheapest internet service, we look for the plans with the lowest monthly fee, although we also factor in things like price increases, equipment fees and contracts. Choosing the fastest internet service is relatively straightforward. We look at advertised upload and download speeds and consider real-world speed data from sources like Ookla and FCC reports. (Ookla is owned by the same parent company as CNET, Ziff Davis.)
To explore our process in more depth, visit our how we test ISPs page.
Your home broadband options will be limited if you reside in Las Cruces. Most households in the city are serviceable for a cable connection from Xfinity. Like most cable providers, expect a price hike from Xfinity once the promo period ends. A fixed wireless connection from T-Mobile might be a decent alternative to avoid that increase. Starlink is available virtually everywhere, but you might have to settle for slower speeds and a steeper monthly cost (to say nothing of the $349 upfront cost for starting service).
June 28, 1946 January 14, 2025.Dr. James “Jim” Thomas Fisher, 78, of Las Cruces, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2025. He was born in Bryan, Texas, on June 28, 1946, to the late John “Buddy” Fisher and Emma Fisher.Jim met the love of his life, Kathy, when they were juniors at South Houston High School; they married soon after graduation and remained devoted partners for nearly 60 years. Their 60th wedding anniversary would have been on February 2, 2025. Jim was the beloved father of Tod...
June 28, 1946 January 14, 2025.
Dr. James “Jim” Thomas Fisher, 78, of Las Cruces, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2025. He was born in Bryan, Texas, on June 28, 1946, to the late John “Buddy” Fisher and Emma Fisher.
Jim met the love of his life, Kathy, when they were juniors at South Houston High School; they married soon after graduation and remained devoted partners for nearly 60 years. Their 60th wedding anniversary would have been on February 2, 2025. Jim was the beloved father of Todd Fisher (Tyler), Derek Fisher (Jaime), and Jeremy Fisher (Dasha) and a proud grandfather to Mia, Lyla, Juno, and Josiah. His family was the cornerstone of his life, and he took great joy in supporting and guiding his children and grandchildren.
Jim, a dedicated scholar and educator, earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from West Texas State University on a football scholarship, where he played tight end. He continued his studies in Fort Collins, Colorado, completing a Master’s in Range Science and a Ph.D. in Woody Plant Physiology. Between earning his degrees, he spent a year teaching at LeTourneau College, establishing his lifelong love of teaching and research.
After moving to New Mexico, Jim served as Superintendent at the Mora Research Center before joining the main campus of New Mexico State University (NMSU) in Las Cruces, where he built a distinguished 30-year career. Recognized for his excellence in both the classroom and the field, Jim received numerous awards, supervised many graduate students, and served as the university’s NCAA Representative. He traveled widely as an NMSU representative for the International Arid-Land Consortium, fostering global collaboration on environmental research.
During his tenure, Jim also served as Department Chair of the Plant and Environmental Sciences Department, providing visionary leadership that helped shape the program’s success. His dedication to teaching and scholarship is honored through the James T. Fisher Endowed Scholarship, established by Dr. Fisher and friends at NMSU.
Jim’s research was prolific, focusing on plant physiology and ecology. He published extensively on water relations in parasitic plants such as mistletoe, including how they develop and interact with their hosts. He also contributed valuable insights into successfully establishing aspen seedlings in the challenging environments of the Rocky Mountains, as well as studies on the cultivation and management of Afghan pines in arid regions. His findings served as important resources for forestry, conservation, and land management professionals.
Jim found great purpose in applying his scientific knowledge to support communities and address ecological challenges. He was often called upon as a consultant for court cases, frequently representing tribal communities. He also provided additional expertise on reclamation sites and various environmental concerns. He was a devoted member of St. James Episcopal Church and an avid Christian theology reader, continually exploring the role of faith and the intricacies of the living world. Seeking new cultural experiences and eager to broaden his horizons, Jim enjoyed learning Spanish and attending language school in Mexico. He also enjoyed playing golf and watching football and basketball with Kathy.
Away from his professional pursuits, Jim treasured time with his family. He often reminisced about taking them to the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles and spending summers in Creede, Colorado, where the Fishers stayed in cabins and spent long days fishing the region’s lakes and streams. Over the years, he also enjoyed tackling hands-on projects, like designing his lab equipment, tying flies for fishing, building Volkswagen engines, and working on and driving MGBs. Before age slowed him, Jim also embraced outdoor adventures, like hiking the Grand Canyon and fly-fishing at Yellowstone and the Tetons, reflecting his boundless curiosity and enthusiasm for life’s mysteries.
Services.
A memorial service will be held at St. James Episcopal Church, 123 St. James Place, Las Cruces, NM, at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, February 8th, 2025.
In lieu of flowers, consider memorial contributions to the James T. Fisher Endowed Scholarship at NMSU or to St. James Episcopal Church in Las Cruces, furthering Jim’s enduring legacy of faith, education, and community service.
Jim will be profoundly missed by his family, colleagues, friends, and students. His intellectual curiosity, steadfast faith, and unwavering devotion to both loved ones and the pursuit of knowledge will forever inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Posted online on January 24, 2025
Published in Las Cruces Sun News
LAS CRUCES, N.M. – Another season of NM State Softball is on the horizon. Following a 30-win campaign in 2024, Kathy Rodolph and her squad are gearing up for a highly-anticipated spring 2025. The 51st season in program history is set with a 52-game slate and a starting date of Friday, Feb. 7. After 13 weeks of the regular season, the Conference USA Championship will be held in Bowling Gr...
LAS CRUCES, N.M. – Another season of NM State Softball is on the horizon. Following a 30-win campaign in 2024, Kathy Rodolph and her squad are gearing up for a highly-anticipated spring 2025. The 51st season in program history is set with a 52-game slate and a starting date of Friday, Feb. 7. After 13 weeks of the regular season, the Conference USA Championship will be held in Bowling Green, Ky., as the Aggies look to advance to their first NCAA Regional since 2018.
The Aggies will take on five teams who made the 2024 NCAA Tournament, headlined by national runner-up Texas and Women's College World Series participant Florida. Elsewhere on the 2025 schedule are Arizona, Liberty and Northern Colorado; who all finished among the nation's final 64 teams a year ago.
The first two weekends of the season will come at home, as the Aggies will welcome Nebraska, Northern Colorado, Colorado State and four other institutions across the NM State Invitational (Feb. 7-9) and Troy Cox Classic (Feb. 14-17).
From there, the Aggies will spend two straight weeks on the road, first heading west to the Copper State. Arizona State and Grand Canyon will play host to an exciting tournament that includes Florida, Iowa State, California Baptist and Portland State.
Before visiting LA Tech to open conference play, the Crimson & White will head to Austin, Texas for the Longhorn Invitational. South Florida, Abilene Christian and Alabama State will all take on Kathy Rodolph's squad in the three-day event from Feb. 28 through March 2.
The Battle of I-25 will boil down to one game in 2025, coming on March 11 at the NM State Softball Complex. Having come out victorious in 19 of the past 22 matchups, the Aggies will host the rival Lobos for a single, Tuesday evening contest to decide the season series.
After last season's stellar showing from Desirae Spearman in the Battle of I-10, NM State will travel south to the Helen of Troy Softball Complex. UTEP will host the second-ever conference series between the Aggies and Miners, with the three-day affair starting on Friday, April 4. A trio of Aragons all transferred from UTEP to join Kathy Rodolph and company over the summer, headlined by April 22 Pitcher of the Week and 2024 All-CUSA Freshman Team selection Faith Aragon.
In the 2024 CUSA Championship, NM State fell short on its home field at the hands of Liberty, the eventual conference champion. This regular season, the Flames will make another trip to the Land of Enchantment for a rematch in the Aggies' penultimate home series across April 11-13.
A trip to Tucson for a doubleheader with Arizona will wrap up the non-conference portion of the regular-season slate on Tuesday, April 22. After two same-day bouts with last year's Super Regionals participants, the Crimson & White will return to Las Cruces for Senior Weekend. The Aggies' final home series will come against Middle Tennessee between Friday, April 25 and Sunday, April 27.
Kennesaw State, the league's newest member, will host the Aggies for the conclusion of the regular season. After a trip to the Peach State, Western Kentucky will host the 2025 Conference USA Softball Championship in Bowling Green, Ky. The league's top six teams will compete in a double-elimination bracket as a champion will be crowned an awarded an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.
2025 NM State Softball Schedule
For complete coverage of NM State Softball during the 2025 season, visit NMStateSports.com – the official home of the Aggies – and follow the Aggies on Facebook (NM State Softball), Twitter (@NMStateSoftball) and Instagram (@NMStateSoftball).
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Borderlands Ballet Company photosPosted Thursday, December 5, 2024 11:13 am Bulletin reportThe ballet with a household name, thanks to its association with Christmas, will come to Las Cruces when the Borderlands Ballet Company, directed by Monique Foster, presents six performances of “The Nutcracker” over two weekends at New Mexico State University’s Center for the Arts.“‘The Nutcracker’ is the most iconic of all the classical ballets,” the Las Cruces-based dance compan...
Borderlands Ballet Company photos
Posted Thursday, December 5, 2024 11:13 am
Bulletin report
The ballet with a household name, thanks to its association with Christmas, will come to Las Cruces when the Borderlands Ballet Company, directed by Monique Foster, presents six performances of “The Nutcracker” over two weekends at New Mexico State University’s Center for the Arts.
“‘The Nutcracker’ is the most iconic of all the classical ballets,” the Las Cruces-based dance company stated in a news release. “It somehow manages to hold its place as a wildly popular holiday event and also a great work of art, with some of the greatest choreography ever created set to the exquisite score of (Pyotr Ilyich) Tchaikovsky.”
The show will include, for the second consecutive year, a live orchestra conducted by Grammy-winning artist, and NMSU music professor, Jorge Martinez-Rios. He is also the conductor of the NMSU Philharmonic and La Frontera Philharmonic as well as principal violist for the Las Cruces Symphony. This year, he will lead the recently-formed Binational Orchestra, which has performed in Las Cruces, El Paso and Ciudad Juárez.
As for the dance ensemble, the role of Clara will be performed by 12-year-old Lesley Dill, the company announced, while Juliana Garcia will dance as the Sugar Plum Fairy. And Godfather Drosselmeyer will be performed by NMSU theatre major Mario Montiel, who recently played Dracula in American Southwest Theatre Company’s production of “Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors.”
Rounding out the ensemble are Avery Hinckley (Nutcracker/Cavalier), Gavin Elftman and Brooke Gonzales (Snow King and Queen), Joshua Godman and Rachel Breck (Coffee), Isabella Jacquez and Santiago Garzon (Chocolate), Allene Barton (Tea), Janelle Hernandez with Gavin Elftman and Santiago Garzon (Candy Canes), Taylor Cantu (Ballerina Doll), Rae Milette (Jester Doll), Santiago Garzon (Kossack Doll) and guest artist Kinnon Fields (Fritz).
The Coffee Variation is among the well-known scenes from “The Nutcracker” ballet, realized here by the Borderland Ballet Company of Las Cruces.
The ballet company said “The Nutcracker” will run for approximately one hour and 45 minutes, with a 15-minute intermission.
Performances will be Dec. 13 at 7 p.m.; Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Dec. 20 and 21 at 7 p.m.; and Dec. 22 at 2 p.m. The performances will be at the ASNMSU Center for the Arts, 1000 E. University Avenue. Reservations are available online at our.show/nutcracker2024.
Borderlands Ballet Company’s annual Nutcracker Gala, a black-tie event for donors to the company, will take place following the Dec. 13 opening night performance. More information is available at Borderlands-Ballet.com.
Nutcracker, Borderlands Ballet Company, Monique Foster, NMSU Philharmonic
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