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.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Dripping Springs Natural Area gets harder without someone by their side. 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 hired Always Best Care when my mother needed care after she was released from”
“I highly recommend Always Best Care Home Health for anyone in need of compassionate and”
“I am a past client of this provider I highly recommend Always Best Care Home Health”
“This company is effective and efficient. The staff are friendly and engaging. Would highly”
“Every time I have referred pt’s and their families members to Always Best Senior”
“Not knowing when Senior care services will be needed ~ the time came when I”
“Not knowing when Senior care services will be needed ~ the time came when I”
“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”
“I love working here! The boss and supervisor are constantly checking up on both caregivers”
“I hired Always Best Care when my mother needed care after she was released from the hospital. She needed help with bathing, meals, and getting to appointments. This company doesn’t disappoint. All of my mother’s needs were met and she enjoyed her caregiver’s help and company. Whenever we needed additional days or to switch a day, Cassandra always fulfilled our needs. Liz, Suri, and Stephanie were amazing. They are the reason my mother is back on her feet. Thank you for everything!”
“I highly recommend Always Best Care Home Health for anyone in need of compassionate and reliable care for their loved ones. The quality of care they provided for my mother was exceptional. The caregivers and providers went above and beyond, offering not only professional medical assistance but also a genuine kindness and empathy that made all the difference. It was clear that they truly cared for my mother's well-being, and their support brought peace of mind to our family. If you’re looking for trustworthy and sympathetic care, Always Best Care is an outstanding choice.”
“I am a past client of this provider I highly recommend Always Best Care Home Health for anyone in need of compassionate and reliable care for their loved ones. The quality of care they provided for my mother was exceptional. The caregivers and providers went above and beyond, offering not only professional medical assistance but also a genuine kindness and empathy that made all the difference. It was clear that they truly cared for my mother's well-being, and their support brought peace of mind to our family. If you’re looking for trustworthy and sympathetic care, Always Best Care is an outstanding choice.”
“This company is effective and efficient. The staff are friendly and engaging. Would highly recommend their service.”
“Every time I have referred pt’s and their families members to Always Best Senior Services- they have been very content with the services that this agency renders. From my experience this agency hires very loyal, kind, compassionate, and trained providers . This agency goes above and beyond the call of duty to meet the needs of the individuals that they serve. * Highly recommend! *”
“Not knowing when Senior care services will be needed ~ the time came when I faced reality for finding care for my parents even if it was only temporary. Always Best Care was amazing. Hoping not to need anytime soon, but should the time come again I will definitely go with ABC again! Thank you”
“Not knowing when Senior care services will be needed ~ the time came when I faced reality for finding care for my parents even if it was only temporary. Always Best Care was amazing. Hoping not to need anytime soon, but should the time come again I will definitely go with ABC again! Thank you”
“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.”
“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.”
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. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting La Llorona Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
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. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Sunset Grill or visit New Mexico Farm Ranch Heritage Museum, don't feel bad. 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.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
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.
District play is underway for Las Cruces' four high school baseball teams, and each team looks to earn crucial results to compete for a district championship and secure a place in the 5A state playoffs.Here's a look at how each team has fared so far this season, including standout players in the city:More: Desirae S...
District play is underway for Las Cruces' four high school baseball teams, and each team looks to earn crucial results to compete for a district championship and secure a place in the 5A state playoffs.
Here's a look at how each team has fared so far this season, including standout players in the city:
Record: 12-3 (3-1 District 3-5A)
District place: 2nd
N.M. MaxPreps ranking: 9th
The Bulldawgs have won six of their last seven games and are ranked as a top-10 team in New Mexico by MaxPreps. Las Cruces opened district play with a 2-1 series victory against rival Mayfield thanks to 4-3 and 2-1 victories in the first two games. The Bulldawgs opened their next district series against Gadsden with a 4-0 road win on Monday and return home for the last two games on Thursday starting at 5 p.m.
Nick Rojas and Isaiah Borunda both have a batting average over .400 at .439 and .432, respectively. Rojas also leads Las Cruces in RBIs (12) and hits (18), while Wyatt Major has driven in 11 runs on 15 hits. On the mound, Joaquin Pfeiffer has recorded a 0.67 ERA while Gunnar Guardiola has registered a 2.23 ERA. Xander Parra leads the Bulldawgs with 34 strikeouts.
Record: 7-7-1 (2-2 District 3-5A)
District place: 4th
N.M. MaxPreps ranking: 21st
The Trojans ended non-district play on a four-game winning streak, and look to bounce back from their series defeat to Las Cruces with a series win against Centennial. Mayfield is off to a good start in the series, having secured a 4-0 road win in the first game on Monday ahead of the next two at home on Thursday starting at 5 p.m.
A notable win for the Trojans came in a 23-11 triumph over Hobbs on March 18. Mayfield scored a run in each of the six innings played until it earned a mercy rule win, including seven runs in the second and six runs in the sixth. The Trojans have won consecutive games heading into Thursday.
Record: 10-4-1 (4-0 District 3-5A)
District place: 1st
N.M. MaxPreps ranking: 14th
The Knights currently lead District 3-5A with an unbeaten district record after sweeping Gadsden in their district-opening series and taking a series opener against Alamogordo with an 11-1 home win on Monday. Organ Mountain travels to Alamogordo for the next two games against the Tigers starting at 5 p.m. Thursday.
Devyn Garces leads the Knights with a .475 batting average, with teammate Eric Gomez behind him with a .400 batting average. Garces and Gomez each have a team-high 13 RBIs this season, with Garces also recording three triples. Alex Venegas and Sebastian Escapita have been notable pitchers for Organ Mountain with ERAs of 1.87 and 2.15, respectively, while Gera Delgado and Brennan McNiece lead the Knights with 26 and 25 strikeouts, respectively.
Record: 10-5 (3-1 District 3-5A)
District place: 3rd
N.M. MaxPreps ranking: 15th
The Hawks swept Alamogordo in their first district series, extending their winning streak to five games before falling to Mayfield on Monday. Centennial clinched a sweep over the Tigers with a 4-3 extra-innings win last Thursday, earning a walk-off victory in the bottom of the ninth inning. The Hawks earned two notable results in non-district play with 25-0 and 16-0 wins against Del Norte on March 8.
Israel Molina leads Centennial's qualified batters with a .439 batting average, one of three Hawks with a batting average above .400 alongside Cole Alons (.435) and Johnny Renteria (.421). Centennial has also hit eight home runs this season, with Alons and Molina combining for seven. Molina, Renteria and Gilberto Torres have impressed on the mound, with the latter leading Centennial with 36 strikeouts. Molina has a 0.78 ERA while Renteria has registered a 2.10 ERA.
LAS CRUCES, N.M. – NM State Softball is set to host Conference USA's lone nationally-ranked team this weekend in the Land of Enchantment. Liberty (31-8, 13-1) rolls in as the league's top seed and looks for its sixth consecutive series win to open league play. The Aggies have their eyes on returning to the win column and cementing their place among CUSA's upper tier with a statement against the No. 25 team in all of Division I.HOW TO FOLLOW Who: Liberty (34-8, 13-1 CUSA) at NM ...
LAS CRUCES, N.M. – NM State Softball is set to host Conference USA's lone nationally-ranked team this weekend in the Land of Enchantment. Liberty (31-8, 13-1) rolls in as the league's top seed and looks for its sixth consecutive series win to open league play. The Aggies have their eyes on returning to the win column and cementing their place among CUSA's upper tier with a statement against the No. 25 team in all of Division I.
HOW TO FOLLOW Who: Liberty (34-8, 13-1 CUSA) at NM State (21-17, 8-7 CUSA) Where: NM State Softball Complex – Las Cruces, N.M. When: April 11-13 | Friday (6:00 PM MT) / Saturday (4:00 PM MT) / Sunday (11:00 AM MT) Live Stream: ESPN+ Live Statistics: nmstatestats.com (StatBroadcast) All-Time Record vs. Liberty: 3-5 Under Kathy Rodolph: 3-5 All-Time Record in Las Cruces: 1-1 Last Meeting: Liberty 5 @ NM State 3 – May 10, 2024 (Las Cruces, N.M.) Current Streak: Liberty, 1 win (since May 10, 2024)
COACH'S THOUGHTS Head Coach Kathy Rodolph, on the series against Liberty: "They're a top-tier group. They're very talented and well-coached, so we know they're going to capitalize on others' mistakes. In order for us to have the outcome that we want, we've got to play hard and clean without rushing. We've got to embrace the moment without it getting too big so we can focus on what's in front of us and not what's behind us."
LAST TIME OUT NM State visited UTEP for a three-game set in El Paso over the weekend. The Miners took all three contests due in large part to multiple runs in all three opening innings. The sweep was the first the Aggies have suffered since joining Conference USA, dropping them into a tie with Jax State for fourth place in the league standings at 8-7.
THERE'S ALWAYS TAMARA Tamara Carranza has recently established herself as one of the hottest freshmen in CUSA Softball. In addition to solid performance on defense this season, the first-year Aggie is coming off her best three weekends at the plate. The true freshman hit the first two home runs of her career at FIU as part of a six-hit weekend in which she batted .667. Against Sam Houston, Carranza extended her hitting streak to six games, including a game-tying three-run home run in the opener. Last weekend at UTEP, she recorded another three hits and picked up her fourth-multi hit game in the past 11 outings.
In CUSA play, the California native is batting .381 and has the third-highest OPS on the team (1.062). For the season, her batting average has vaulted to .294, up from its non-conference mark of .167.
SHE DOES IT ALL… Last Monday, Desirae Spearman was named as the third-best two-way player in the country by Softball America. The true sophomore was not only last year's CUSA Freshman of the Year, but her remarkable campaign as a pitcher and outfielder won her Player of the Year honors in the league as well.
This season, Spearman has delivered just as well in the circle. She is two innings pitched (85.0) behind Faith Aragon (87.0) for the team lead, while pacing the Aggies in strikeouts thrown (80) and ERA (3.21). In 16 starts, the two-way star has amassed nine victories, making her one of just five pitchers CUSA to do so in 2025.
At the plate, the second-year Aggie has staked a clear claim as the best hitter in CUSA, ranking among the nation's top 10 in eight different offensive categories. She paces the conference in home runs (17), walks drawn (38), slugging percentage (1.140), on-base percentage (.649), OPS (1.789) and runs scored (43).
SUPER SLUGGERS Just three players in all of Division I have more home runs than Spearman (17). The sophomore's prowess as a long ball threat has granted her 38 walks drawn this season; a mark that places her well atop the conference and tied for sixth in the nation. The second-year Aggie is on pace (54.17) to shatter her own mark of 43 RBIs that led last year's squad. However, Spearman is far from alone in an Aggie lineup that has been daunting for opposing pitchers in 2025.
The team ranks 32nd in the nation with a slugging percentage of .527, while ranking second in CUSA with a .318 batting average. The unit is slotted within the top 50 nationally in hits (330), doubles (64) and home runs (50), with just under half of its base knocks (152) courtesy of seven incoming transfers.
Six Aggies rank among the conference's top 50 in hits, due in large part to two newcomers; Kristiana Watson (47) and Faith Aragon (33). The former is two shy of the CUSA lead with 13 doubles, while sitting at second in the conference with 41 RBIs, only behind Rachel Roupe of Liberty in both metrics. Watson, having appeared in all 38 games thus far, is on track to tally 56.11 RBIs during the regular season.
AGGIES OF THE WEEK NM State added some hardware last week, courtesy of Faith Aragon. The sophomore standout was named CUSA Pitcher of the Week after tossing two complete games against Sam Houston as the Crimson & White swept Sam Houston. Across 13 scoreless innings, first-year Aggie allowed just six hits and one walk while striking out 15 batters, including a career-high nine on Saturday. Aragon picked up her second career honor after earning the same distinction once with UTEP a season ago.
Last month, Devin Elam returned from an eight-game injury absence and made an immediate impact that earned her CUSA Co-Hitter of the Week honors. The 2024 All-CUSA First Team selection posted a .600 batting average as she racked up six hits in three outings against Jax State, leading the offense to another series win. With a walk, two doubles and a home run, Elam notched 11 total bases and a 1.736 OPS. For the week, the California native tallied seven RBIs to pace an NM State offense that scored 26 runs in a 3-1 week that began with a rivalry win over New Mexico.
After the opening week of the season, Lauren Garcia earned similar recognition. The UNM transfer posted a team-high .600 batting average, boosted by three walks for an on-base percentage of .667. Her squad-best eight extra-base hits resulted in a then-nation's best 1.667 slugging percentage and an otherworldly 2.333 OPS. Conference USA recognized the remarkable weekend by tabbing Garcia as the first CUSA Player of the Week for 2025.
SCOUTING THE LADY FLAMES Liberty is under the direction of Dot Richardson, who holds a 416-265 record in her 12 seasons with the program. The Lady Flames are out to a 34-8 start in 2025, holding a 13-1 record in CUSA play. Last weekend, they dropped their first game of league action in the opener at MTSU before eventually taking the series.
On the field, the Lady Flames are led by Rachel Roupe, who paces the team with 15 home runs while leading CUSA 47 RBIs and 109 total bases. The pitching staff has posted a collective ERA of 2.44 this season, pacing CUSA and ranking 22nd in the nation.
SERIES HISTORY The Aggies and Lady Flames have met eight times in history, with Liberty holding a 5-3 advantage. In Las Cruces, the two sides are split at one game apiece, with the first such contest coming last year. The first three bouts in the series were out of conference play before both squads joined CUSA in July 2023.
LAST SEASON'S MATCHUPS In 2024, NM State took the 1,595-mile trip east to Liberty last year for a weekend series in Virginia. The hosts took the bookends of the series by one run apiece, but the Aggies came through with a 6-2 win on Saturday. The series opener was an instant classic, as the 10-inning affair went deep into the night, seeing four home runs and nine extra-base hits.
The two sides met twice more in the CUSA Championship in May. On the second day of action, NM State dominated Liberty to the tune of an 11-3 run-rule victory that placed the hosting Aggies one win away from the Championship Game. However, after falling to WKU the next morning, the Crimson & White comeback came up short against the Lady Flames by a score of 5-3.
While Liberty took three of five battles, NM State outscored the top seed 30-22 over the course of the season and suffered the trio of defeats by a combined four runs.
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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USA TODAYIndependent bookstores are the heartbeats of their communities. They provide culture and community, generate local jobs and sales tax revenue, promote literacy and education, champion and center diverse and new authors, connect readers to books in a personal and authentic way and actively support the right to read and access to books in their communities.Each week, we profile an independent bookstor...
USA TODAY
Independent bookstores are the heartbeats of their communities. They provide culture and community, generate local jobs and sales tax revenue, promote literacy and education, champion and center diverse and new authors, connect readers to books in a personal and authentic way and actively support the right to read and access to books in their communities.
Each week, we profile an independent bookstore, sharing what makes each one special and getting their expert and unique book recommendations.
This week we have Mike Beckett, owner of COAS Books in Las Cruces, New Mexico.
What’s your store’s story?
In 1973, archaeologist Pat Beckett started a small archeological publishing company in Las Cruces, New Mexico called COAS Publishing. The company published local history books, academic works, anthropology books and other archeology media. As Pat's vast collection of books continued to grow, he purchased a local paperback exchange, and with that COAS Books was born.
The name COAS has its roots in archaeology, coming from the Nahuatl term “coa,” which means "digging stick." It's also the acronym for "Center of Anthropological Studies." Today, COAS Books is run and operated by myself and Veronica Beckett as we continue to proudly serve the community in the heart of Las Cruces.
What makes your independent bookstore unique?
Our customers rave about our friendly staff, our immense selection and their fondness for growing up with our store, bringing their children and grandchildren to share new experiences. We have an incredible selection of new and used books (including regional and out-of-print books), CDs, DVDs, vinyls, VHS, audiobooks and games. COAS Books is family-owned and operated, with two stores located in Las Cruces, New Mexico. We receive hundreds of books every day, so our inventory is constantly changing and full of hidden gems.
What book do you love to recommend to customers and why?
My favorite book is "Tularosa: Last of the Frontier West" by C.L. Sonnichsen. It is one of the best overall histories of the Mesilla Valley and southern New Mexico. It is an illuminating experience into the rough and sometimes lawless American Frontier. I fear I am the only one who orders it regularly and it may go out of print.
Why is shopping at local, independent bookstores important?
We are members of our communities: we give to local organizations in need and sponsor events that enrich our towns. Almost all of our money is spent locally.
What are some of your store's events, programs, or partnerships coming up that you would like to share?
We enjoy hosting a weekly story time where the kids get a free book and local authors weekly with book signings, many of which are self-published.
District play is underway for Las Cruces' high school softball teams, and each team looks to earn important wins to compete for a district championship and secure a place in the 5A state playoffs.Here's a look at how each team has fared so far, including the players that are standing out:More softball stories: Desir...
District play is underway for Las Cruces' high school softball teams, and each team looks to earn important wins to compete for a district championship and secure a place in the 5A state playoffs.
Here's a look at how each team has fared so far, including the players that are standing out:
Record: 13-3 (4-2 District 3-5A)
District place: 3rd
N.M. MaxPreps ranking: 8th
The Bulldawgs won nine of their 10 non-district games, including six wins by 10 runs or more. Las Cruces lost its district-opening series 2-1 against rival Mayfield last week, but won the series' final game and took the series opener against Gadsden on Monday with a 12-0 home win to secure consecutive wins. The Bulldawgs finished the sweep over the Panthers on Thursday with 11-6 and 12-1 victories.
Three Las Cruces players have a batting average of .400 or higher, with Kaia Renteria batting a .534 average with 30 RBIs. Renteria also leads the Bulldawgs with six home runs alongside Zaysha Hawkins. Renteria has also recorded a 3.94 ERA in the circle, while Leah Pacheco has a 4.24 ERA with 50 strikeouts.
Record: 12-4 (2-4 District 3-5A)
District place: 4th
N.M. MaxPreps ranking: 3rd
MaxPreps has ranked the Trojans as one of the best teams in New Mexico, and they went a perfect 10-0 in non-district play before winning their district-opening series against Las Cruces. Mayfield fell 11-9 to Centennial at home in the first game of its current series and were swept by the Hawks in the series' final two games
The Trojans have won 10 of their 12 games by double-digits, including 10-0 and 14-0 wins against the Bulldawgs. Mayfield's highest-scoring win came in a 22-1 thumping of El Paso Ysleta on March 4.
Record: 11-4-1 (5-1 District 3-5A)
District place: 2nd
N.M. MaxPreps ranking: 17th
The Knights started district play right with a series sweep over Gadsden last week, and finished with a 17-7 victory over the Panthers last Thursday. Organ Mountain fell 7-3 to Alamogordo on the road Monday to open its current series but won the series on Thursday with consecutive home victories at 7-6 and 11-3.
Six Knights have a batting average of over .400, with two batting over .500. Hannah Justus leads Organ Mountain in batting average (.623), home runs (6) and RBIs (32) on a team-high 38 hits. She also leads the Knights with 66 strikeouts in the circle. Leah Melero has also impressed at the plate with a .490 batting average with four home runs and 18 RBIs, while Isabella Salinas leads Organ Mountain with a 4.71 ERA.
Record: 16-0 (6-0 District 3-5A)
District place: 1st
N.M. MaxPreps ranking: 1st
The reigning 5A state champions have performed as advertised this season, and are recognized as MaxPreps' current top team in New Mexico. The Hawks opened district play with a series sweep over Alamogordo, including an 18-0 win last Thursday, and an 11-9 road win over Mayfield on Monday. Centennial completed a sweep of the Trojans on Thursday with 8-0 and 13-3 victories to maintain its unbeaten record.
Centennial boasts many of New Mexico's best players and three batters with a batting average of over .500. Amanda Valles leads the Hawks in batting average (.583), home runs (14), RBIs (33) and hits (28). Aaliyah Betancourt has also shown off her power hitting with 11 home runs and 29 RBIs. Destiny Perez boasts a .558 batting average and is the Hawks' top pitcher with 69 strikeouts, a 2.58 ERA and a 9-0 record.
Centennial has a .448 batting average as a team with 36 home runs and 155 runs scored.
LAS CRUCES, N.M. – NM State defeated a short-handed Sam Houston women's tennis team 4-0 in a Conference USA match Friday afternoon at the NM State Tennis Center.The match marked the Aggies' second CUSA league victory in four contests and upped the squad's season mark to 12-8. Sam Houston stands 5-8 this season and 0-4 in CUSA play."It's tough with only five healthy players but the ladies on the court fought hard," head coach ...
LAS CRUCES, N.M. – NM State defeated a short-handed Sam Houston women's tennis team 4-0 in a Conference USA match Friday afternoon at the NM State Tennis Center.
The match marked the Aggies' second CUSA league victory in four contests and upped the squad's season mark to 12-8. Sam Houston stands 5-8 this season and 0-4 in CUSA play.
"It's tough with only five healthy players but the ladies on the court fought hard," head coach Rob Hubbard said. "When New Mexico State clinched after the doubles point and three singles we still were competing well in the remaining three matches."
Because of the five-player line-up the Kats had to default the No. 3 doubles match and the No. 6 singles contest. NM State earned the doubles point by winning at the number three position. Up 2-0 with the addition of the default at the six singles line, the Aggies posted victories at number three and five singles lines to earn the dual-match victory.
Next up for the Sam Houston women this weekend is another Conference USA matchup with UTEP in El Paso. The Bearkats play host to Middle Tennessee on April 11 and Liberty April 13 to close out the regular season schedule. The Kats travel to Lynchburg, Va. for the Conference USA Tournament beginning April 17.
NM State 4, Sam Houston 0 DOUBLES 1. Nadia Nemeth / Anna Pinaieva (NMSU) vs. Aaliyah Hohmann / Nayuma Subba (SHSU) 5-4 unfinished 2. Mo Parkinson-Lubold / Lisa Zhu (NMSU) def. Christine Jevicky / Adi Venkatakrishnan (SHSU) 6-0 3. Dora Kurdi / Whitney Moon (NMSU) def.TEAM and TEAM (SHSU) by default
SINGLES 1. Anna Pinaieva (NMSU) vs. Nayuma Subba (SHSU) unfinished with SHSU leading 6-4 3-3 2. 2. Lisa Zhu (NMSU) vs. Christine Jevicky (SHSU) unfinished with NMSU leading 6-2 4-1 3. Whitney Moon (NMSU) def. Adi Venkatakrishnan (SHSU) 7-5 6-1 4. Mo Parkinson-Lubold (NMSU) vs. Aaliyah Hohmann (SHSU) unfinished match 6-4 2-6 5. Dora Kurdi (NMSU) def. Ella Fitcher (SHSU) 6-3 6-1 6. Nadia Nemeth (NMSU) def. TEAM (SHSU) by default
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