Life is Good in Las Cruces 2016-2017 by Cary Johnson Howard

2016 - 2017 COMMUNITY GUIDE

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L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

2 016GENER ALELEC TION Registration Deadline: October 11, 2016 by 5:00pm

FEDERAL ABSENTEE SEPTEMBER 24 – NOVEMBER 4, 2016

Please note that absentee ballots must be received by 7:00pm on November 8, 2016

ABSENTEE OCTOBER 11 – NOVEMBER 4, 2016

You can request an absentee ballot until November 4, 2016. Our ofﬁce will begin mailing them out on October 11, 2016. Please note that marked ballots must be received in our ofﬁce by November 8, 2016 at 7:00pm.

EARLY VOTING OCTOBER 11 - NOVEMBER 5, 2016

8:00am-5:00pm Monday - Friday and on the last Saturday, November 5, 2016 from 10:00am - 6:00pm @ the Doña Ana County Government Center Alternate Early Voting Convenience Centers will open on Saturday, October 22, 2016. The alternate location hours will be Tuesday - Saturday from 11:00am to 7:00pm.

ELECTION DAY: NOVEMBER 8, 2016 7:00am-7:00pm @ all Voting Convenience Centers

For a complete list of Early and Election Day Voting Convenience Centers please visit www.dacelections.com. DACElections.com

845 N. Motel Blvd., Las Cruces, NM 88007 (575) 647-7428 DACElections.com

LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

Table of Contents

Life is Good

Life is good in Las Cruces........................ 8 Lo cal Legend: Stories conflict on origin of Las Cruces' name................................11 So journ: Camping in the backyard of the Organ Mountains.........................................12 Lo oking Ahead: Plaza will be Downtown's epicenter.............................................................14 Lo oking ahead: Modernity transforms historic corner......................................................15 Community resources..............................................16 City accolades..............................................................16 Lo hmador Island: The perfect place for an urban pirate................................................................17 Accomodations................................................................18

Pets

It 's now legal to own chickens in the city limits............................................................. 20 Ch anges to dog chain and tether laws take effect.......................................21 Pet ordinances....................................................................22 Animal groups.....................................................................22

Moving in

How to talk New Mexican: Colloquialisms of Southern New Mexico..................................................24 Census Quick Facts..........................................................25 Driving around town.........................................................26 Financial institutions......................................................... 27 Public transportation.......................................................28

Giving Back

CFSNM connects resources to need.......................29 Service organizations.......................................................31

Government & Military

La s Cruces vet center plays a vital role for combat veterans........................................................32 Veterans organizations..............................................35 A guide to Las Cruces City Hall...........................36 Las Cruces City Council.........................................37 DoĂąa Ana County Commission..........................37 Government officals...............................................38 Government offices..............................................39 Tie in the sky..........................................................39 De corated commander to head WSMR............................................. 40 Ar ea military installations integral to Mesilla Valley................................................41 Military bases at a glance.........................41

Business

A green ribbon runs through it: Agriculture continues to expand

in the Mesilla Valley.......................................................42 Looking ahead: Heritage Farms will showcase crops, bolster ag education........................................45 Chambers of Commerce work to strengthen local business, economy.........................................................46 Area organizations offer resources to small businesses.........................................................................47 Spaceport: An invitation to space..............................48 Shopping local helps vitalize a community............. 50 Workforce training.............................................................51 Industry tax credits............................................................51

Senior Living

Livin' it up in Las Cruces: Sixteen things to do in 2016........................................ 57 Senior services.................................................................. 60 Retirement communities................................................ 60 Assisted living facilities.....................................................61 Senior Olympics helps seniors stay healthy and active.................................................62 Senior centers offer year-round activities, meals, services.............................................64 Passion for life, passion for golf, Aldrich stays active on and off the course.......................................66

Custom day trips

Hit the road with custom day trips...................... 68-69

Kids & Family

City museums host programs for the whole family.......................................................70 Youth sports leagues........................................................ 72 Parent organizations......................................................... 72 Looking ahead: new park features splash pad........................................................73 Myriad resources available through public library....................................................73 Local youth organizations work to build strong futures................................................................................. 75 New private school opens in Mesilla......................... 76 Nonprofit serves homeless, near-homeless children and their families........................................... 77 Programs for children......................................................78 Sojourn: Get lost at City of Rocks..............................79

Education

Burrell College of Osteopathic medicine to open doors to first class.........................................................80 Private and charter schools...........................................84 Up and Comer: Teacher takes an innovative approach to education.................................................86 DACC Culinary Arts program graduated first students in 2015...............................................................87 New Mexico State University Board of Regents........................................................... 88

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

Looking Ahead: Creative Campus outlines vision for collaboration at NMSU...................89 Las Cruces Board of Education elected every four years................................................................90 Local Legend: Diane Schutz takes her 'retirement' seriously.............................................91

Sports & Recreation

All about the Aggies!...............................................92 Famous coaches........................................................94 Pistol Pete....................................................................94 Striking the Wonder Dog.......................................94 Pan American Center.............................................94 Local Legend: Charley Johnson is an NMSU icon.....................................................95 Danny Villanueva......................................................95 Map: Parks and recreation facilities.................96 Recreation leagues and organizations..............98 Golf courses...............................................................98 Adventures in the great Las Cruces outdoors................................99

Arts & Entertainment

Downtown is home to Las Cruces' dynamic arts community.................................................... 100 Las Crucens revel in fiestas of every flavor......................................... 103 Film Las Cruces aims to expand industry in southern New Mexico........................................104 Map: Art Galleries.................................................106 Listen to live music in Cruces............................108 Art organizations.....................................................109 Performing arts venues........................................109

Homes & Desert Living

Built on love: Anniversary house benefits multiple area nonprofits each year................. 114 Unique lexicon describes vibrant Southwest architecture.............................................................. 117 Sojourn: Take a stroll through two historic districts...................................................................... 118 Local Legend: Henry C. Trost was an architect for the ages.............................................................. 119 Recycling in Las Cruces........................................120 Get water wise..........................................................120 Codes and ordinances............................................ 121 Neighborhoods......................................................... 122

Health & Well-Being

Digital Cadaver: Lets students visualize anatomy.................................. 136 Sojourn: Sanitarium was one of the top three in 1891................139 Map: Major Health Care Facilities................................. 140 Looking Ahead: Hospitals look to expand operations..........................141

Spirituality

We're a 'big tent': Unitarian-Universalist church open to all................................. 143 Sojourn: Church camps offer fun, faith and friendship........................................146 Local Legend: Bishop finds retirement enriching and busy............................... 147

Menu Guide

New Mexico cuisine is in a league of its own.....................................................................150 Directory............................................................. 152 Map: Menu Guide..........................................153

Resources

Calendar of Events............................................162 Advertiser Index.................................................163

PUBLISHER

Richard Coltharp CONTENT DIRECTOR

Tracy Roy MANAGING EDITOR

Brook Stockberger EDITORIAL

Marissa Bond Christophe Chino Michael Cook Marissa Bond Dawn Franco Billy Huntsman Zak Hansen Alta LeCompte Cassie McClure Jackye Meinecke Elva K. Österreich Susie Ouderkirk Ann Palormo Tracy Roy Bonnie Schranz DESIGN

Cary Howard Eddie Hodges Alex Burrows Ryan Galloway ADVERTISING

Richard Coltharp, advertising manager Melissa Attencio Claire Frohs Pam Rossi Elaine Sasnow ADVERTISING A S S I S TA N T

Jamie Pfannenstiel PHOTOGRAPHERS

Christopher Belarde Dawn Franco Billy Huntsman Elva K. Österreich Tracy Roy DISTRIBUTION

Teresa Tolonen The Life is Good in Las Cruces 2016-2017 Community Guide is a copyrighted special edition of the Las Cruces Bulletin, designed and published by OPC News, LLC, 1740-A Calle de Mercado, Las Cruces, NM 88005. Inquiries regarding editorial or advertising content may be directed to 575-524-8061. © Copyright 2016, Las Cruces Bulletin

Mesilla

Meet me on Calle de Guadalupe: Historic Mesilla road offers night life, ghosts and delectibles............................................................... 124 Local Legend: Sonny of Mesilla is prophet, friend, greeter........................................................ 126 Fountain Theatre continues to entertain in its second century...................................................... 128 Mesilla landmarks.................................................... 129 Basilica of San Albino............................................. 129 Sojourn: Get lost at La Union Corn Maze.....130 Mesilla eateries and bars....................................... 131 Mesilla in the 1800s.................................................131 LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

ABOUT THE COVER ❚ PHOTO BY DAWN FRANCO

In 1993, Las Cruces artists Olin Calk and Dan Smith saw an opportunity to educate the public on the reusability of material that would otherwise be disposed of and wasted. So, “The Roadrunner” was born. This 20-foot-tall, 40-foot-long sculpture currently inhabits a rest stop a few miles west of Las Cruces along I-10. His frame is made of welded steel — rebar, angle iron and solid stock. This is the only element of the structure that was bought instead of repurposed. The first layer on this sculpture is the armature, which is made of sheet metal recovered from the South Central Solid Waste Authority recycling facility. Before turning into a 1,600-pound bird, this material was used for signage, corrugated metal roofing, barbecue grills and metal trashcans. The second layer is made from thrown-

away household materials, such as old tennis shoe soles that line the sculpture’s legs like feathers. For 10 years the sculpture stood on the Las Cruces Foothills Landfill, 555 S. Sonoma Ranch Blvd., before graffiti spurred the city to pay for its relocation to a rest area on the south side of Interstate 10, just west of Las Cruces between mile markers 134 and 135. “The intention of the work was to draw attention to the landfill itself and thus to issues regarding consumption, the potential reuse of some materials and the recycling of massconsumed packaging residuals,” according to the artist’s website, www.olincalk.com. 2016 - 20

17 COMM UN

ITY GU IDE

Life truly is good in Las Cruces! With spectacular year-round golf, unique special events, world-class Mexican food, historic attractions and 320 days of sunshine per year, Las Cruces is a great place to live, work, play and retire! My fellow members of City Council and I look forward to working with you to continue enhancing our community’s many outstanding qualities. Ken Miyagishima, Mayor of Las Cruces

las-cruces.org

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

Fine Jewelry If you don’t know Diamonds, know your jeweler...

Fine Jewelry - Estate Jewelry - Appraisals Repairs - Austins Account (up to12 months no interest)

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Serving the Las Cruces area for

28 Years

RING MUSEUM

Austin’s Fine Jewelry is proud to present our gift to the Las Cruces community: The Austin’s Ring Museum. The museum contains Keith Austin’s personal collection of rings from around the world. The collection covers over 1900 years and the displays are changed regularly. Personal tours can be arranged for small groups.

Free admission

You will be impressed!

LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

LIFE IS GOOD

in Las Cruces WHERE THE ACTIVITIES AND THE PEOPLE ARE DOWN TO EARTH

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

LIFE IS GOOD

❚ BY RICHARD COLTHARP, PUBLISHER PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER BELARDE

Maybe you’ve lived in Las Cruces for half a century. Maybe you’ve lived here only half a year. Maybe you don’t live here at all, and are just visiting for half a week. Whether you’ve been here 50 years or 50 minutes, you’ve probably noticed a few things. For example, Las Cruces has more than its fair share of churches, banks and Mexican food restaurants. That may or may not be true, depending on your faith, your bank account or your fondness for enchiladas. What’s definitely true, though, is Las Cruces has personality. At varying times, Las Cruces has grit, style, class, heart, brains, courage, nerve, mystery, curiosity and craziness. How do you condense that diversity into a single description? How about “down to earth?” Folks in Las Cruces are nothing if not down to earth.

How else do you explain why half the time our city goes simply by its last name? BORDER PATROL AGENT: Where you headed? LAS CRUCEN: Back home to Cruces. Go see for yourself. Grab your favorite tennis shoes or walking boots and head out your front door in search of Las Cruces. Do you live on the East Mesa? Spend a weekend morning at Big Daddy’s Flea Market, then walk down the street to Chavira’s Produce. After that, take a little walk for some lunch at Los Compas on Bataan Memorial, just north of U.S. Highway 70. Somewhere along your route, you’re likely to encounter Guitar Louie, who plays his guitar outside of storefronts for spare change. Down to earth. Do you live near Downtown? Some Saturday after the Farmers & Crafts Market of Las Cruces, stretch your legs a little bit and make a wide loop, including Pioneer Continued on page 11 ❚

LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

LIFE IS GOOD

❚ Continued from page 9 Women’s Park west of downtown and Klein Park on the east side, finishing up with a nice plate of Tacos Estrellas at La Nueva Casita Café. Down to earth. Do you live in Sonoma Ranch? Call some other Sonoma Ranch friends and meet in the middle at Sunset Grill, whether for a sandwich or a beverage or both. Walk there and walk back home and you’ve all had a nice exercise, with the Organ Mountains as a beautiful backdrop. Down to earth. Do you live on the West Side? How about a long stroll beginning and ending at La Llorona Park along the Rio Grande? As seldom as there is water in the river, your journey can’t be anything but down to earth. Another sign Las Cruces is down to earth: People so frequently find their way back. Perhaps the two highest profile jobs in Las Cruces are president at New Mexico State University and commanding general at White Sands Missile Range.

Both of those positions are currently held by NMSU Aggies. NMSU President Garrey Carruthers is the only Aggie ever to lead his alma mater, having earned his bachelor’s degree in 1964 and his master’s in 1965. He also taught at the university for several years. Then, after some stints doing some other projects — including serving as governor of the state of New Mexico — returned as dean of the college of business. He was named president in 2013. Brig. Gen. Eric Sanchez was tabbed to lead WSMR in 2016. The New Mexico native began his military career in the National Guard in Las Cruces and in 1987 became a distinguished military graduate of NMSU. He was scheduled to take command in late summer 2016. Another sign we’re down to earth? Nobody packs the Pan American Center like a popular country artist. So whatever your story is, whatever makes you down to earth in Las Cruces, get out and experience. It’s all there waiting for you.

4201 Del Rey Blvd Las Cruces, NM 8012 575-382-4717

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

LIFE IS GOOD

Local Legend STORIES CONFLICT ON ORIGIN OF LAS CRUCES’ NAME

❚ BY SUSIE OUDERKIRK

The accepted wisdom regarding the naming of Las Cruces — often repeated in official histories — is that the name originated from an Apache massacre of about 40 travelers from Taos, perhaps in 1830, 1839 or 1840, that resulted in a “garden of crosses” becoming the town’s namesake. However, there is virtually no direct evidence of such an attack or of one specific group of crosses on the town’s site, said Buddy Ritter, author, historian and fifth-generation Las Cruces/ Mesilla native.

THE POPULAR THEORY

Before being settled by people of European descent, the Mesilla Valley was nothing more than a particularly dangerous stretch along the Camino Real del Tierra Adentro, which connected Mexico City with settlements in northern New Mexico. Unfortunately for many travelers, the river and the natural cover in the valley also attracted bands of Apache, who would fall upon tired travelers, leaving the remains of their unlucky victims to decay in the harsh Chihuahuan desert. According to local legend, later travelers would bury the corpses and erect wooden crosses as stark memorials for those slain along the trail. Eventually, a particular spot on the east side of the Mesilla Valley became known as “El Jardin de las Cruces.” Four years after the area became American territory in December 1845, U.S. Army Lt. Delos Bennett Sackett laid out a grid for a new town and the place that was known as “El Jardin de las Cruces,” which eventually became Las Cruces.

AN ALTERNATE THEORY

Ritter’s 2014 book, “Mesilla Comes Alive: A History of Mesilla and its Valley,” advances a lesser-known theory: “‘Las Cruces’ in old Spanish means ‘The Crossing.’ Las Cruces was situated at an old crossing of roads that had existed since long before the Spanish arrived. The north-south trail along the Rio Grande River was crossed by another trail that ran west from the Organ Mountains following the Alameda Arroyo into the valley to the river. This crossroads was situated … in the vicinity of Main Street and Alameda Avenue where Doña Ana Road begins,” Ritter said. “No graves have ever been found, even during construction of the streets and earth work in the area.” The date of 1693 precedes the legend of crosses on a cemetery being the source of the name Las Cruces; the date is about 150 years earlier, Ritter wrote.

THE CROSSING OF TWO ROADS

According to Cal Traylor, a 50-year member and former president of the Doña Ana County Historical Society, “By using Google Maps we can find the current outflow point of the Alameda Arroyo into the Rio Grande,” Traylor said. “That surely will be near its historic point.” Traylor has recorded the height of the Rio Grande during various times of year. Today, three metal crosses stand next to North Main Street just east of Solano Drive. Lit with electric lights, they are a far cry from the melancholy rustic crosses that, according to legend, marked the final resting place of unfortunate travelers, but they remain a symbol for how the city got its name.

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Sojourn

CAMPING IN THE BACKYARD OF THE ORGAN MOUNTAINS

❚ BY TRACY ROY

The view of the Organ Mountains from Las Cruces is ubiquitous and ever-changing. Depending on your location and the time of day or weather, the range may seem closer or farther away, lighter or darker, inviting or ominous. And there’s no denying its beauty. But just around the other side of the range, which is surprisingly close to home — a little more than 20 miles from downtown — a different and spectacular view awaits. Aguirre Spring Campground, nestled at the base of the east side of the Organ Mountains, is a place to get away without going far. It’s the only high-country camping area in the Las Cruces-El Paso-Juarez region, according to the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. The campground overlooks the Tularosa Basin and White Sands National Monument. Springs and streams can be spotted along the two hiking trails during the monsoon season. The east end of the Baylor Pass Trail is found at Aguirre Spring recreational area, and the six-mile, one-way trail is the only maintained trail that traverses the mountain range. The Pine Tree Trail is a four-mile loop, beginning and ending at Aguirre Spring. The Baylor Pass Trail is open to hiking and equestrian use. The Pine Tree Trail is for hiking only, though leashed pets are allowed on both trails and the campground. The campground includes 57 family camping sites and two group sites. The camp sites have shaded pavilions and shade trees. Handicapped-accessible restrooms are

available at multiple locations throughout the area. The day-use fee per vehicle is $5. Camping per campsite is $7. For group sites, reservations are required and the fee is $50 per group. It is open year-round. From April to October, the entrance gate is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. From October to April, it is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

FYI/AGUIRRE SPRING CAMPGROUND Address: Aguirre Spring Road, Las Cruces, NM 88011 Phone: 575-525-4300 Website: www.blm.gov/nm/st/ en/prog/recreation/las_cruces/ aguirre_spring_campground.html Directions: Take U.S. 70 for 14 miles east, then turn south on the Aguirre Spring Road (1.1 miles after San Augustin Pass) for six miles. At mile 4 the road becomes a one-way loop. Cost: Day use fee, $5 per vehicle; camping, $7 per campsite

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

LIFE IS GOOD

LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

LIFE IS GOOD

Looking Ahead

PLAZA WILL BE DOWNTOWN'S EPICENTER ❚ BY MIKE COOK

Downtown Las Cruces will soon have a brand-new civic plaza. “Having a downtown plaza re-establishes a welcoming community gathering place in the heart of the city,” Las Cruces Downtown Coordinator Andy Hume said. The plaza will measure 180 by 320 feet, and it will be expandable by temporarily closing off adjoining streets to traffic. It will be able to seat up to about 1,200 people. Hume said the plaza will include a water

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feature, which is “a splash pad that will provide a cool, refreshing play area during the day and transform into a crowning nighttime spectacle,” he said. It will also include a stage that “will be large enough to hold our symphony orchestra or a four-piece band,” Hume said. “It will have nice architectural features such as a curved roof and accent lighting. It will have a 600amp service capable of handling acts that would play for a venue this size.” Features of the plaza will include work by well-known Las Cruces artists. Tony Pennock has created a sundial. Bob Diven is designing the splash pad. Suzanne Kane is making metal gates for the plaza’s northwest electrical enclosure, Hume said. “I envision our plaza as the epicenter of downtown,” Mayor Ken Miyagishima said. “It will also serve as a community gathering point.” The $5.6 million plaza, located at the northeast corner of Griggs Avenue and Main Street, is expected to be completed by Aug. 1, 2016, Hume said. Funding comes through the city’s Tax Increment Development District (TIDD), which was created in 2008 “to generate revenue within the downtown area and to use those revenues within that area for public improvement projects,” according to city documents. Most of the money went to purchase the nearly 1.5 acres of land where the plaza will be located.

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L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

MODERNITY TRANSFORMS HISTORIC CORNER ❚ BY MIKE COOK

The Las Cruces City Council, in April 2016, unanimously approved a resolution adopting a $6.5 million development agreement for the city block currently occupied by the Amador Hotel and, until recently, My Brother’s Place restaurant in Downtown Las Cruces. GMB Development NM LLC, in a joint agreement with TIDD and the city, has purchased the land formerly occupied by My Brother’s Place and parking lots north of the restaurant and hotel. The city already owns the hotel. GMB will then begin the demolition of My Brother’s Place, the parking lots and nonhistoric portions of the hotel. Construction

LIFE IS GOOD

Looking Ahead

will begin in October 2016, which should take 12 months to complete, pending the reconfiguration of Church and Water streets from one- to two-way traffic, another TIDD project which is slated to begin in 2017. GMB will then construct buildings on the site to house the Las Cruces Convention and Visitors Bureau, a full-service restaurant and bar, a martini bar, a pub and taproom and a coffee shop. Developer Max Bower said the development will also include an outdoor plaza and theatre that could host more than 1,000 people. He said the project will include 250 parking spaces. When construction is complete, ownership of the property will be transferred to the city.

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LIFE IS GOOD

COMMUNITY RESOURCES PUBLIC SAFETY Las Cruces Police Department Chief of Police Jaime Montoya 217 E. Picacho Ave. 575-528-4200 www.las-cruces.org/ department/police

Las Cruces Fire Department Fire Chief Eric Enriquez 201 E. Picacho Ave. 575-528-3473 www.las-cruces.org/ department/fire Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff Enrique “Kiki” Vigil 845 N. Motel Blvd. 575-525-1911 www.donaanacounty.org/ sheriff

New Mexico State Police District 4 4055 Sonoma Ranch Blvd. 575-382-2500 www.nmsp.dps.state. nm.us/index.php/districtoffices/district-4 U.S. Customs and Border Patrol 3120 N. Main St. 575-528-6600 www.cbp.gov Las Cruces Crime Stoppers 217 E. Picacho Ave. 575-526-8000 Mesilla Valley Regional Dispatch Authority 130 W. Lohman Ave. 575-526-0795 Animal Control 575-528-4100

Crime Prevention 575-528-4285 Emergency Medical Services 575-528-3473 Fire Prevention 575-647-7521 Graffiti Hotline 575-528-4723 Poison Control 800-222-1222 Pollution Control 575-528-3596 Public Works 575-528-3125 Tips Hotline 575-528-4264

POST OFFICES

Commerce 1180 Commerce Drive 575-521-4953

Doña Ana 5480 Ledesma Drive 575-523-4301 Fairacres 3800 W. Picacho Ave. 575-524-2195 Las Cruces 201 E. Las Cruces Ave. 575-524-2903 Mesilla 2253 Calle de Parian 575-524-1531 Mesilla Park 310 E. Union Ave. 575-523-7088 Organ 15770 Padre La Rue St. 575-382-5949 University Park 1600 International Mall 575-646-2019

CITY ACCOLADES

exposure

Throughout the years, Las Cruces, the Mesilla Valley and New Mexico State University have been recognized as great destinations. The national accolades include:

Art & Leisure in Southern New Mexico 2016

• Ninth on Lonely Planet magazine’s “Best in the U.S Top Ten” for travel destinations

2014-2015

• One of top 25 “Best Places to Retire,” Forbes

2013

www.desertexposure.com

• “Top 30 Best Small Places for Business and Careers,” ranked 17 in job growth and 16 for “Best Place for a Working Retirement,” Forbes • “Best 21 Boomer Towns,” Best Boomer Towns • New Mexico State University ranked in “Top 200 Best Colleges,” US

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

News & World Report • “Playful City USA,” www. kaboom.org

2012

• “Top 10 Great Sunny Places to Retire,” AARP • One of the country’s “Top 10 Spring Break Destinations for Families,” Guidebook America • “Top 25 Places to Retire,” Forbes/Milken Institute • “Hardest Working Towns in America,” Parade Magazine • “Playful City USA,” www.kaboom.org

LIFE IS GOOD

LOHMADOR ISLAND

THE PERFECT PLACE FOR AN URBAN PIRATE ❚ BY CASSIE MCCLURE

The traffic on the three streets of Lohman Avenue, Amador Avenue and Solano Drive flow like rivers. At the point where all three meet sits an island full of potential, ready to be made of use for commercial development, where captains of industry can drive their ships ashore and make use of the loot of the most famous of real estate treasures: location, location, location. Currently home to Brake Masters on one point of the triangle, and Poison Ink Tattoo on another, and the relatively new Valero gas station at the other end, the island of Lohmador is the perfect dream for the urban pirate — brakes and gas for your land yacht. Get a tattoo while you wait. However, an empty retail-type building sits quietly, while a residential house carries a white-and-blue barber’s pole, but no sign or offers of hours. A small Boost Mobile shop and an auto dealer called Deals on Wheels round out the rest of the properties. Deals on Wheels is now closed, but the day before it did, owner Robert Suarez said he’s had a successful 20 years on Lohmador Island. “The traffic is great,” he said. “We catered to people from all over.” Now, retirement calls and he’s looking to lease his property to a new generation which will make deals for wheels. From the bottom of Lohmador Island to the top, is barely a three-minute walk, with the smell of oil from Brake Masters and the

rushing sound of traffic on all sides. Parking is plentiful and it would be a bustling home to shops fit for those who can carve a stake out of the location that sits at one of the heaviest and most recognizable intersections in Las Cruces. The location is there for those pirates who can find the economic treasure — beckoning those willing to dig for it.

Services for Families Experiencing Domestic Violence & Abuse •Emergency Shelter •Crisis counseling and support •Non-residential support programs •Legal assistance •Assistance accessing community resources •Anthony satellite office •Batterer’s Intervention Program La Casa Inc. • 800 S. Walnut 24 Hour Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-376-2272 Office: 575-526-2819 • www.lacasainc.org

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ACCOMMODATIONS HOTELS AND MOTELS A Day’s End Lodge 755 N. Valley Drive 575-524-7753 Big Chile Inn 2160 W. Picacho Ave. 575-524-8627

TownePlace Suites Las Cruces 2143 Telshor Court 575-532-6500

La Quinta Inn & Suites Organ Mountain 1500 Hickory Drive 575-523-0100

Value Place 2080 S. Triviz Drive 575-528-2046

Best Western Mission Inn 1765 S. Main St. 575-524-8591

La Quinta Inn Las Cruces Mesilla Valley 790 Avenida de Mesilla 575-524-0331

Century 21 Motel 2454 N. Main St. 575-524-9626

Motel 6 Las Cruces 235 La Posada Lane 575-525-1010

Comfort Inn & Suites 1300 Avenida de Mesilla 575-527-1050

Motel 6 Las Cruces – Telshor 2120 Summit Court 575-525-2055

Comfort Suites-University 2101 S. Triviz Drive 575-522-1300

Plaza Suites 301 E. University Ave. 575-525-2083

Comfort Suites- Telshor 236 N. Telshor Blvd. 575-521-1030

Quality Inn & Suites 2200 S. Valley Drive 575-524-4663

Days Inn & Suites 755 Avenida de Mesilla 575-526-8311

Ramada Las Cruces Hotel and Conference Center 201 E. University Ave. 575-526-4411

Drury Inn & Suites 1631 Hickory Loop 575-523-4100 Econo Lodge 2585 S. Valley Drive 575-527-2000 Fairfield Inn 2101 Summit Court 575-522-6840 Hampton Inn & Suites 2350 E. Griggs Ave. 575-527-8777 Hilton Garden Inn 2550 S. Don Roser Drive 575-522-0900 Holiday Inn Express & Suites Las Cruces North 2142 Telshor Court 575-522-0700 Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites 2635 S. Valley Drive 575-527-9947

Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces 705 S. Telshor Blvd. 575-522-4300

Royal Host Motel 2146 W. Picacho Ave. 575-524-8536 Sands Motel 1655 S. Main St. 575-524-7791 Sleep Inn-University 2121 S. Triviz Drive 575-522-1700 Springhill Suites 1611 Hickory Loop 575-541-8887 Staybridge Suites 2651 Northrise Drive 575-521-7999 Super 8 - South 245 La Posada Lane 575-523-8695 Super 8 - East 3405 Bataan Memorial West 575-382-1490 Town House Motel 2205 W. Picacho Ave.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

BED & BREAKFASTS Casa De Rosie 2140 Calle del Norte, Mesilla 575-993-1410 Josefina’s Old Gate 2261 Calle de Guadalupe, Mesilla 575-525-2620 Lodge on the Desert 535 Spirit Ridge Court 575-523-9605 Lundeen Inn of the Arts 618 S. Alameda Blvd. 575-526-3326 Hotel Mesilla 1803 Avenida de Mesilla 575-652-4953 Valley Vista Bed & Breakfast 17430 E. U.S. Highway 70 575-382-8103

RV PARKS Coachlight Inn RV Park 301 S. Motel Blvd. 575-526-3301 Encantada of Las Cruces 1000 Coyote Trail 575-523-7496 Hacienda RV 740 Stern Drive 575-528-5800 Las Cruces KOA 814 Weinrich Road 575-526-6555 Siesta RV Park 1551 Avenida de Mesilla 575-523-6816 Sunny Acres RV Park 595 N. Valley Drive, Suite 75 575-524-1716

LIFE IS GOOD

For all your special events, you will find elegance, comfort and style at the Ramada Hotel & Conference Center. The only Spanish Villa style in Las Cruces!

201 E. University Ave. 1-10 Exit 142 •Las Cruces, NM 88005 575-526-4411• ramadalascruces.com LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

PETS

IT’S NOW LEGAL TO OWN CHICKENS IN CITY LIMITS ❚ BY ZAK HANSEN

PHOTO BY TRACY ROY

Following changes to the city’s animal control ordinance in 2015, Las Cruces residents are now able to obtain permits from the city to raise as many as six chickens or ducks within city limits. These permits are available for $15 annually, plus a $10 one-time application fee. However, roosters, geese and drakes (male ducks) are not included, and as such are still not allowed within Las Cruces boundaries. Looking to get started? Las Cruces’ Horse N Hound Feed N Supply, 991 W. Amador Ave. is a great place to get going. Horse N Hound offers all the supplies you need to raise chickens — and the chicks themselves. “When you are raising chicks, it’s important to have a source you can depend on for tips and advice,” Horse N Hound Marketing Director Rachel Courtney said. “We have a lot of customers who rely on us at Horse N Hound to help them raise a healthy, productive brood. “We offer classes for first-timers, an email list you can subscribe to which sends weekly updates on what to expect and are happy to help those who call or come in to the store with any problems they may have,” Courtney said. “If you can find that in a website you trust, in a friend who has raised chicks or in your feed store, you are one step closer to success.” For just about everything you need to know about raising chicks, visit Courtney’s Horse N Hound blog at www.horsenhoundfeed. com/#!blog/ck4t/tag/chickens. So what are a few of the pros and cons of raising backyard chickens? On the plus side: • A supply of fresh, organic eggs: Chickens produce an average of two eggs from three hens per day.

• As natural grazers, chickens help keep pesky bugs and unsightly weeds at bay, and their poop is a natural fertilizer. • Chickens make great pets. In time, you’ll see them develop their own personalities. • Once you get started, keeping chickens is relatively inexpensive; for three chickens, expect to spend around $30 per month. This leads us to the cons: • High initial cost: You’ll need feeding, watering and heating supplies, the coop and the chickens. • Chickens may be low-maintenance, but they’re not no-maintenance. Coops need to be kept clean, dry and ventilated, and food and water must be in steady supply. Also, they poop a lot. A lot. • When left to their own devices, chickens can be destructive. If you let them roam free all day, kiss your blooming garden goodbye. • Chickens have a number of natural predators, from wolves and coyotes to the everyday domestic dog — even housecats.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

PETS

CHANGES TO DOG CHAIN AND TETHER LAWS TAKE EFFECT ❚ BY ZAK HANSEN

In recent years, a push to regulate, reduce or abolish completely the chaining and tethering of dogs has swept the country. Advocates for the changes point to evidence that dogs who spend the majority of their time tied up outside can become anxious, bored and lonely, which in turn contributes to the development of aggressive behaviors and health problems — even attacks on family members, children or neighbors. In 2014, Doña Ana County officially passed a proposal to overhaul the county’s petordinance. Two years later, in January 2016, those changes took effect within the county. The City of Las Cruces adopted similar changes to its pet ordinance, also taking effect this year. “Both entities relied on extensive research of best practices, and the issue of humane tethering was found to be severely lacking in the old ordinance,” Doña Ana County Public Information Officer Jess Williams said. “Doña Ana County — in active partnership with the Coalition for Pets and People — is pursuing a campaign toward across-the-board responsible pet ownership throughout Doña Ana County, and the new tethering restrictions are part of that strategy.” So what are these new rules?

“The bottom line is that dogs can no longer be legally chained 24/7, and there are specific guidelines regarding the type, weight and duration of acceptable tethering,” Williams said. “Failure to comply can result in fines and jail time in a worst-case scenario, but the hoped-for outcome is voluntary compliance rather than punitive enforcement.” The full ordinance may be viewed online at https://donaanacounty.org/animal. Since these changes took effect, city and county animal control and codes officers are on the lookout for violations. Given the majority of codes and animal control calls are complaintdriven — that is, a neighbor or passerby calls to report — Doña Ana County and Las Cruces residents are encouraged to report possible violations to the ordinance to county officials. With these new ordinances in place in the county and city, Williams said the two entities “hope to create a culture of responsible pet ownership in which companion animals are consistently treated with humane best practices. The ordinance revisions are a major step in that direction.” For information on these and other animalrelated city and county ordinances, visit www. las-cruces.org or https://donaanacounty.org, or call 575-528-4520 or 575-647-7200.

LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

PETS

PET ORDINANCES Licensing An owner of a dog or cat older than 3 months within the city shall obtain a dog or cat license issued by the city or its agent within 30 days of acquiring ownership. A written license and a license tag shall be issued upon proof that a licensed veterinarian has properly vaccinated the dog or cat against rabies and proof of an implanted working identification microchip is provided. Dogs and cats must wear a current license tag at all times. When ownership of a dog or cat changes, the new owner shall obtain a new license for the animal.

ANIMAL GROUPS ACTion Program for Animals 800 W. Picacho Ave., Las Cruces, NM 88005 575-571-4654 www.actionprogramsforanimals.org

Continued on page 23 ❚

Las Cruces Dog Park Coalition P.O. Box 13345, Las Cruces, NM 88013 http://lcdogparkers.com

Animal Service Center of the Mesilla Valley 3351 Bataan Memorial West, Las Cruces, NM 88012 575-382-0018 www.ascmv.org

New Mexico State University Feral Cat Management Program (FCaMP) P.O. Box 3912, Las Cruces, NM 88003 575-639-3036 www.nmsu.edu/~fcamp

City of Las Cruces Animal Control 1085 Med Park Drive, Las Cruces, NM 88001 575-528-4100 www.las-cruces.org

Operation Spot - NM Low-cost spay-neuter-microchip programs Pre-register at www.OperationSpot-NM.org Savinglives@operationspot-nm.org

Doña Ana County Animal Control 845 N. Motel Blvd., Las Cruces, NM 88007 575-647-7715 www.donaanacounty.org/animal

Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary 6890 Eagle Road, Las Cruces, NM 88012 575-805-5338 www.safehavenanimalsanctuary.net

Doña Ana County Humane Society 2406 W. Picacho Ave., Suite 103, Las Cruces, NM 88007 575-647-4808

Spay and Neuter Action Program (SNAP) 2405 W. Picacho Ave., Suite 103, Las Cruces, NM 88007 575-524-9265 www.snapnewmexico.org

Humane Society of Southern New Mexico 403 Melendres St., Las Cruces, NM 88005 575-523-8020 www.hssnm.org

Rabies shots and control Any dog, cat, domestic ferret or other animal for which there is a state-approved rabies vaccine older than 3 months must have the vaccination as issued by the state Department of Health. All vaccines must be administered by or under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian who will issue a serial-numbered certificate and tag for each administration. Every animal bite must be reported to the Department of Health office within 24 hours of when it happened.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

â?&#x161; Continued from page 22

PETS

Permitted animals Pets and other animals that are permitted include: â&#x20AC;˘ Up to three licensed pets per home, but more than three and up to seven licensed requires a kennel license. â&#x20AC;˘ Animals and fowl kept in a zoo or similar place of exhibition under the supervision of a public agency â&#x20AC;˘ Animals or fowl kept in approved laboratories or schools for experimental or educational purposes â&#x20AC;˘ Up to six chickens and/or ducks with a permit. Roosters and drakes, however, are not permitted within city limits. â&#x20AC;˘ Animal shelters operated by a governmental approved agency. â&#x20AC;˘ Feral cat colonies with permit. â&#x20AC;˘ Any amphibians, reptiles, caged birds, aquarium fish, caged rodents or caged ferrets maintained within the confines of a dwelling unit, except as prohibited/ restricted by federal or state law regarding those species listed as threatened, endangered or as prohibited/restricted by the city codes enforcement department. â&#x20AC;˘ Any birds held by rehabilitators for the purpose of rehabilitation until such birds are able to be released. Rehabilitators must be licensed by the federal government, state Department of Game and Fish and the city codes enforcement department.

Restraining animals All animals must be kept on the ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property. If an animal is restrained on the premises of its owner, the tether must be no shorter than 12 feet. Tethers may only be used as a temporary means of restraint. Dogs may not be tethered to a stationary object for more than two hours in any 12-hour period or more than four hours in any 12-hour period to a running line, pulley or trolley system. While on the street or in public, the animal must be kept on a leash of suitable length so as to enable the handler to maintain control of the animal under the specific circumstances. Waste pick up Every owner of a dog or cat should be aware that animal defecation is prohibited on property other than that of the owner. Owners of animals are responsible for immediately cleaning up after their animals. Nuisance An owner canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t allow an animal to persistently or continuously bark, howl or make noise for more than 10 minutes. However, reasonable barking and noise common under normal circumstance isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t considered a disturbance of the peace.

5 he best

time to make your move is now. To learn more about current openings in our senior living community, call (575) 522-1362.

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LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

LIFE MOVING IS GOOD IN

HOW TO TALK NEW MEXICAN

COLLOQUIALISMS OF SOUTHERN NEW MEXICO ❚ BY ELVA K. ÖSTERREICH PHOTO BY TRACY ROY

When someone becomes part of New Mexico culture and life, they will start hearing shouted greetings, frustrated exclamations and other spurts of language that may be mistaken for Spanish. The truth is, New Mexico has its own unique interpretations of some phrases, many of which won’t be heard anywhere else in the world. Since 1598, the Hispanic presence in New Mexico has been constant and the language has certainly taken on a life of its own. Southern New Mexico also differs from the northern portions; many variations divide the state’s colloquial face. For example in the northern part of the state “pea,” “marble,” and “stamp,” are “alverjon,” “bolita” and “estampa” while in southern New Mexico they are “chicharo,” “canica” and “estampilla.” English and Spanish are hopelessly mixed as they take on one another’s forms. Some English examples that have taken on a twist include “carrucha,” from the English word for “car,” meaning lowrider; “wachando,” which comes from “to watch;” “brecas,” derived from the brakes of an automobile; and “mechas” are used to light a cigarette, meaning matches. Other commonly heard phrases include, “A la maquina” or “a la,” usually used as a startled expression; Coke means any carbonated soft drink; “O sí,” is used as an ironic reaction or

to question a statement; and “ay ay” or "de veras" means shame on you, as if someone has done something a bit wrong. You will hear “or what” tagged on to the end of sentences to request a confirmation of a statement as in “Are we late, or what?” You will hear people promise “I’ll do it right now,” but don’t be surprised when it really means, “I’ll do it in a while when I get around to it.” New Mexico “chile” has had a large impact on New Mexico’s cultural heritage, so large in fact, that it was entered into the congressional record as being spelled “chile,” and not "chili." The official state question is of course, “Red or green?” and refers to what kind of chile one wants on their meal. Then you can answer “Christmas,” which means both. “Corazon,” which means “heart,” is often heard in songs when someone is proclaiming their neverending love. "Mi amor" means "my love." “La plebe” refers to a group or clique. “Chavalo” can mean “young kid,” and you may hear children referred to as "mija" and "mijo" (daughter or son, even if not the person's children). "Chiquitas” are young girls. With enough hanging around southern New Mexico, you might be surprised how often you’ll hear these phrases, and maybe even start using them in everyday conversation. And you’re guaranteed to never spell chile “chili” again.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

Population, 2014 estimate: 101,408 Persons per square mile (2013): 1,945 Land area in square miles (2010): 76.49 Residents 18 and younger: 24.3 percent Residents 65 and older: 13.6 percent

College graduates, (2009-2013): 32.2 percent Median age (2009-2013): 31.7

MOVING IN

CENSUS QUICK FACTS: LAS CRUCES

Homeownership rate (2009-13): 57.5 percent

Women: 51.3 percent

Median value of owner-occupied homes (2009-2013): $151,700

Veterans (2009-2013): 8,738 people

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

PROUDLY SERVING SOUTHERN & SOUTHEASTERN NEW MEXICO, WEST TEXAS AND CIUDAD JUĂ REZ SINCE 1994.

www.ptsofficesystems.com 2840 N. Telshor Blvd. Las Cruces 575-524-4384 LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

MOVING IN

DRIVING AROUND TOWN If you are new to New Mexico, you are required to surrender your license from any other state and obtain a New Mexico driver’s license once residency is established. Those applying for a first-time driver’s license, a license renewal or a license replacement are issued a temporary license while their regular license is being processed and mailed.

DRIVER’S LICENSE

Documents needed for new residents wishing to obtain a New Mexico driver’s license: • Social Security card • Proof of identification • Two proofs of residency (i.e.: one utility bill and one bank statement)

FEES:

• $18, four-year license • $34, eight-year licence • $15, DWI records check on all drivers moving from another state. • Drivers age 75 years and older must renew their licenses yearly, but are not charged renewal fees. • All new residents with out-of-state vehicles must have a vehicle identification number inspection performed. •ID card fee is $10 for four years; $18 for eight years (over the age of 75 no required fees).

REGISTERING YOUR VEHICLE

To obtain a New Mexico vehicle title, registration and license plate, the following is required: • Current title or ownership documents • Current odometer reading • Proof of identity and two proofs of New Mexico residency • Proof of insurance, including policy number and insurance company name Fees: • $27 to $62, one-year registration • $54 to $124, two-year registration

CELL PHONE ORDINANCE

If you are driving and talking on your cell phone, you risk getting a traffic ticket, unless you use a handsfree method or device. Texting while driving is also prohibited. For more information about driver’s licenses and vehicle registration, visit www.mvd.newmexico.gov.

bottom line the

T official publication The oof the Greater Las Cruces CChamber of Commerce includes community in uupdates and business nnews and can be found throughout Las Cruces th eevery month. For advertising opportunities, contact a Bulletin representative at 575-524-8061.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

BANKS BANK’34  220 N. Telshor Blvd.  575-521-8100 Bank of America   250 W. Amador Ave. 575-526-4481 691 S. Telshor Blvd. 575-647-3700

BBVA Compass   3800 E. Lohman Ave.  575-521-0000 Century Bank  141 S. Roadrunner Parkway, Suite 101 575-521-2400 Citifinancial 400 N. Telshor Blvd. 575-522-0058

3065 E. University Ave. 575-647-6700 First American Bank  2145 E. Lohman Ave. 575-525-4230 1553 Avenida de Mesilla 575-524-8000 223 E. Idaho Ave. 575-647-1804

Bank of the Southwest  605 N. Water St. 575-527-5498

Citizens Bank of Las Cruces   505 S. Main St.  575-647-4100

First Convenience Bank  Inside Walmart, 3331 Rinconada Blvd. 575-382-5771

Bank of the West   201 N. Church St.  575-527-6200

2841 N. Main St. 575-647-4136

795 S. Telshor Blvd. 575-532-1889

3991 E. Lohman Ave. 575-528-6300

First National Rio Grande   421 N. Water St. 575-525-8900

3030 W. Picacho Ave. 575-528-6363

2535 S. Telshor Blvd. 575-525-8960 3500 Northrise Drive 575-525-8975 First New Mexico Bank   3000 E. Lohman Ave. 575-556-3000 First Savings Bank  2804 N. Telshor Blvd.  575-521-7931 Pioneer Bank  3831 E. Lohman Ave.  575-532-7500 705 E. University Ave. 575-532-7545 2900 Roadrunner Pkwy. 575-532-0639 U.S. Bank   901 E. University Ave. 575-524-0033 277 E. Amador Ave., Suite 100  575-647-7310

Washington Federal Bank  1800 S. Telshor Blvd.  575-522-2664

MOVING IN

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS 301 W Amador Ave. 575-647-0704 Wells Fargo Bank 2505 El Paseo Road 575-541-9502  425 S. Telshor Blvd. 575-521-6932 600 S. Main St. 575-526-7214 Western Heritage Bank  230 S. Alameda Blvd. 575-541-0058 Weststar Bank 555 S. Telshor Blvd. 575-323-6040

CREDIT UNIONS FirstLight Federal Credit Union 300 Foster Road 575-526-4401 3791 E. Lohman Ave. 575-526-4401 3105 Del Rey Blvd. 575-526-4401 OneSource Federal Credit Union 1375 E. Boutz Road 575-523-5524 White Sands Federal Credit Union 2190 Lohman Ave. 575-647-4500 2755 N. Main St. 575-647-4500 Building 143 White Sands Missile Range 575-674-1217

LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

MOVING IN

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION ROADRUNNER TRANSIT

RoadRunner Transit is the public transportation system for the City of Las Cruces, offering residents nine routes running on 30-minute intervals. Hours • 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday • 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday • No service on Sundays Holidays (bus not in service): • New Year’s Day • Memorial Day • Independence Day • Labor Day • Thanksgiving Day • Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Fares • Adults ages 19 to 59: $1 • Youth 6 to 18 years old, student, seniors ages 60 and older, disabled and Medicare: 50 cents • Children 5 and younger: free For information, call 575-541-2500.

DIAL-A-RIDE

Dial-A-Ride is a paratransit service from the City of Las Cruces that provides curb-to-curb, on-demand transportation services to senior citizens and those with disabilities. Dial-A-Ride vehicles are wheelchair-

accessible and are operated by specially trained drivers. Offered from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, fare is $2 one way for qualified ADA individuals and free for senior citizens. Donations are appreciated. For information or to request a ride, call 575-541-2777. This service must be scheduled ahead of time.

AGGIE TRANSIT

A service to the students of New Mexico State University, Aggie Transit offers an alternative mode of transportation to students within a 10-minute walk to anywhere on campus and to the East Mesa Doña Ana Community College. Aggie Transit consists of three on-campus routes and runs during the spring and fall semesters with an abbreviated route in the summer months. DACC bus departs from the Mesilla Valley Mall twice an hour. For information, call 575-646-4415.

NMDOT PARK AND RIDE

NMDOT Park and Ride provides transportation by bus between El Paso and Las Cruces, with stops at Anthony, Texas, and the New Mexico State University main campus. A one-way fare is $3; a monthly pass is available for $90. For more information, visit www. nmparkandride.com or call 866-551-7433.

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L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

CFSNM CONNECTS RESOURCES TO NEED ❚ BY CASSIE MCCLURE

Often people want to give back, invest in their community and help those in need but they aren’t sure where to start. Within Las Cruces and surrounding areas, the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico (CFSNM) acts as a center of community knowledge, philanthropy and relationship building. Incorporated in 2000, CFSNM is working to spread awareness of its services for both donors and nonprofits under the direction of Executive Director Jen Cervantes. “We have an excellent team and board and we are united in our purpose — to improve the quality of life in southern New Mexico,” Cervantes said. The CFSNM works to build bridges between donors, including individuals, businesses, and foundations and areas of need in our community. The aim is to deepen the community’s awareness of how the foundation functions and its role in creating a spirit of philanthropy — which extends beyond monetary contributions to embrace the value of time and talent as well. “We want people to know that their donation, big or small, can make a meaningful difference,” said Courtney Lopez, assistant director for development and communication. “There is so much need in our community, but there is also great generosity; we want to serve as the connector of the two, meeting people where they are and creating opportunities for them to be involved in a relevant way.” CFSNM was started as a result of the sale of the city/county hospital to a private entity and became a vehicle to transfer the assets held in the hospital foundation for the use of the community. While also being a link between donors and groups, CFSNM also focuses on the support of the leadership behind nonprofits

GIVING BACK

Giving Back

and charitable organizations. At the core of the foundation is the question: what matters most? “And it’s our job to build the road map, to listen to community members, leaders and others invested in our region,” said Cervantes. “At the end of the day, it’s about small changes that can lead to big impact, but we can’t do it alone. We invite people to call us, visit our new website, or stop by our offices.” CFSNM serves seven counties of southern New Mexico: Doña Ana, Hidalgo, Otero, Sierra, Grants, Lincoln and Luna. CFSNM helps feed the hungry, expand literacy, provide scholarships and improve quality of health. It manages endowments, including 39 nonprofit organizations in southern New Mexico, and is home to 54 special community projects. It is also the institutional home for two initiatives: Unified Prevention! (UP!) Coalition for a Drug Free Doña Ana County and Doña Ana Place Matters. To learn more, visit CFSNM online at www. communityfoundationofsouthernnewmexico. com or call 575-521-4794.

Jen Cervantes Executive Director

Courtney Lopez Assistant Director for Development and Communication

LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

GIVING BACK

575-541-1440 OR 575-202-7593 BARNETT’S LAS CRUCES HARLEY-DAVIDSON® I-10 @ AVENIDA DE MESILLA LAS CRUCES, NM 88005

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

American Legion Post 10 1185 E. Madrid Ave. 575-526-9139 Elks Lodge No. 1119 3000 Elks Drive 575-527-2707 Fraternal Order of Eagles 980 N. 17th St. 575-524-1614 Kiwanis Club of the Mesilla Valley 575-526-4401 Kiwanis Club of Las Cruces 575-373-9588 Knights of Columbus 1226 2755 E. Idaho Ave. 575-522-9945 Las Cruces Civitan Club 575-649-0165 Las Cruces de Noche Lions Club 1501 N. Solano Drive 575-636-8248 Las Cruces Shrine Club 1150 Brown Road 575-526-8396 Las Cruces Sertoma Club 575-556-8514

Las Cruces Sunrise Lions Club 575-521-6246 Las Cruces Optimist Club www. lascrucesoptimistclub. com Rotary Club of Anthony, NM/Texas 915-472-3790 Rotary Club of Las Cruces 575-521-1460 www.lascrucesrotary.org Rotary Club of Mesilla Valley 575-526-3141 Soroptimist International of Las Cruces 575-649-3853 VFW Post 3242 2001 N. Mesquite St. 575-527-0043 VFW Post 10124 709 S. Valley Drive VFW Post 6917 5845 Bataan Memorial West 575-382-9703

From left to right: DAV Chapter 10 Treasurer Sam Bothern, Commander Jose Lopez, Mesilla Valley Community of Hope Executive Director Nicole Martinez, and DAV Chapter 10 Adjutant Nate Cote. The DAV Chapter 10 presented the Mesilla Valley Community of Hope a check for $12,000 from the estate of Pvt. Manuel Tapia, a WWII veteran.

Visit us online...

GIVING BACK

SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS

Free Archives www. lascrucesbulletin .com Quality Window Tinting Automotive • Residential Commercial Quality Service at Affordable Prices

3001 Harrelson • Las Cruces, NM 88005 (575) 640-1610 • Danny Olivarez

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GOVERNMENT & MILITARY

LAS CRUCES VET CENTER PLAYS A VITAL ROLE FOR

COMBAT VETERANS 32

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

GOVERNMENT & MILITARY

â?&#x161; BY ANN PALORMO

When the Las Cruces Vet Center opened its doors in December 2007, it filled an important niche for services available to veterans living in southern New Mexico and the surrounding area. Vet centers were specifically designed to serve warzone veterans from all eras beginning with the Vietnam War and continuing to the present. The services offered are for men and women (and in some cases family members) from all branches of service. The community-based program (part of the Veterans Health Administration) was first created in 1979 and reauthorized by

Congress several times since then. The goal of a vet center is to provide a broad range of counseling outreach and referral services to eligible service members to assist them in making a positive post-deployment readjustment to civilian life. Services offered include individual readjustment counseling, referral for benefits assistance, group readjustment counseling, marital and family counseling, substance abuse information and referral, job counseling and placement, sexual trauma counseling and bereavement counseling. The Las Cruces office is one of 43 centers Continued on page 34 â?&#x161;

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GOVERNMENT & MILITARY

❚ Continued from page 33 in the Mountain West Region 4A, one of four in New Mexico and the only center south of Interstate 40. It serves an area covering 11 counties, 39 percent of the state and a veteran population estimated in excess of 50,000. Bringing a vet center to this part of the state was the result of the persistence of a group of Vietnam veterans from Grant County seeking help in dealing with post-combat issues. One man in particular, Armando Amador of Bayard, refused to quit in his efforts to find help for himself in dealing with what came to be called post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). “Finding a psychiatrist who would listen to me was the first battle,” Amador said. “When I finally did, I discovered that there were other veterans in the area dealing with similar issues and we began meeting weekly as a group. When we heard about vet centers in other parts of New Mexico, we wanted to get one located closer to us.” That proved to be a challenging task, but Amador would not quit; nor would he take “no” for an answer. He started by meeting with a counselor at the El Paso Vet Center who helped him understand how the system works. He collected signatures from other Grant County veterans on a petition and forwarded that to the Veterans Administration in Washington, D.C. When they could not find it, he collected signatures a second time and took these to the secretary of the VA in person when he was visiting Roswell. He followed up with countless phone calls to New Mexico Second Congressional District Representative Steve Pearce. When word came that a new veterans center was coming to New Mexico and would be located in Las Cruces, there was some disappointment that it would not be in Silver City. Las Cruces’ larger population was the determining factor but vet center services have included weekly visits to Silver City/Grant County from the center’s mobile unit, bringing a counselor and social worker to meet with area veterans. The mobile unit also regularly visits Alamogordo, Chaparral and Deming.

Ruth Offutt, team leader of the center for the last eight years, heads a staff of five, all military veterans and licensed social workers with training in areas related to diagnosing and treating PTSD. A visit to the center can be a positive starting point for veterans (and even activeduty military). According to Veterans Advisory Board Member Billy Armijo, the warm, welcoming atmosphere is what keeps bringing more and more veterans to the Center. “It doesn’t look or act like a counseling center,” Armijo said, “which is why (veterans) are comfortable there.” The motto of all vet centers is “walk on in.” Once there, veterans can get assistance in determining what services they need, whether at the center itself or one of the other veteran programs in the area. There are handouts on a wide range of topics, magazines and books to borrow from the library and an inviting pot of fresh coffee. Offutt said she is extremely proud of her staff, who have a passion for their work. They are all committed to putting the veterans’ needs first, she said. This dedication is reflected in the growing number of individuals who have taken advantage of the center’s many services. Their efforts are also reflected in the overall ranking of this center’s efficiency in serving its clients. The Las Cruces Vet Center is ranked No. 2 among the 43 centers in the region even operating with a small staff. The number of veterans served has increased significantly over the last four years.

LEARN MORE Las Cruces Vet Center 230 S. Water St. 575-523-9826 Open 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday www.va.gov/directory/guide/ facility.asp?ID=5635

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

American Legion Riders Chapter 4 575-496-9425 P.O. Box 8044 Las Cruces, NM 88006 Meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Monday of the month at American Legion Post 10 American Legion Post 10 1185 E. Madrid Ave./P.O . Box 7 Las Cruces, NM 88001 575-526-9139 Meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of every month Bataan Veterans/Ex-POWs 575-527-1965 Meets last Thursday every month; call for location China-Burma-India Veterans 575-644-2314 Meets 9 a.m. the second Tuesday of the month at IHOP, 2900 N. Telshor Blvd. DAV 10 Mesilla Valley Chapter P.O. Box 2457 Las Cruces, NM 88004 Meets at 6 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at American Legion Post 10 DAV 25 332 E. Lisa Drive Chaparral, NM 88081 575-824-0442 Meets at 7 p.m. the third Thursday of the month DAV 38 1950 Calle del Norte Mesilla, NM 321-501-7351 Meets at 9 a.m. on the third Saturday of the month at Andele Restaurant in Mesilla Honor Flight of Southern New Mexico 844-697-1590 chairman@honorflightnm.org Korean War Veterans Association Chapter No. 322 575-649-1145 Meets at 8 a.m. fourth Saturday at Andele Restaurant in Mesilla

Marine Corps League EI Perro Diablo Detachment 478 P.O. Box 7322 Las Cruces, NM 88006 575-526-4060 Meets at 7 p.m. the second Thursday of the month at American Legion Post 10 Military Officers Association of America Current or prior commissioned officers P.O. Box 743 Las Cruces, NM 88004-0743 Meets at 6 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month except June, August and December at various locations Military Order of World Wars Mesilla Valley Chapter 575-525-3990 Meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Thursday of the month except June, July and August at Andele Restaurant in Mesilla Reserve Officers Association Chapter NM-005 575-522-4123 Call for meeting information Sons of the American Legion Squadron 10 P.O. Box 7 Las Cruces, NM 88004 Meets at American Legion Post 10 Special Forces Association Chapter LXXX 575-644-3773 Meets at 10 a.m. the fourth Saturday every month at American Legion Post 10 United Military Women of the Southwest P.O. Box 2534 Las Cruces, NM 88004 575-639-1265 Vietnam Veterans of America Eduardo Marquez Jr. Chapter 431 P.O. Box 6836 Las Cruces, NM 88006 Meets at 7 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month at the American Legion Post 10 Women Marine Association Desert Chapter NM-2 320 McClure Road Las Cruces, NM 88005

575-524-4203 VFW Post 3242 Ray McCorkle Post 2001 N. Mesquite St. Las Cruces, NM 88001-1727 575-527-0443 Meets at 9 a.m. the second Saturday of the month

GOVERNMENT & MILITARY

VETERANS ORGANIZATIONS

VFW Post 4384 P.O. Box 3733 Anthony, NM 88021-3773 575-882-3926 Meets at 7 p.m. every third Monday of the month VFW Post 6917 5845 Bataan Memorial West Las Cruces, NM 88012 575-382-9703 Meets at 7 p.m. the second Thursday of the month VFW Post 10124 1M. Carriere Post 960 S. Valley Drive Las Cruces, NM 88005-3077 526-5761 Meets at 9:30 a.m. the third Saturday of the month Women Veterans of New Mexico, Unit No. 1 600 Shadow Valley Drive Las Cruces, NM 88007-5325 575-644-1675 Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic 1635 S. Don Roser Drive Las Cruces, NM 88011 575-522-1241 Vet Center (Department of Veterans Affairs) 230 S. Water St. Las Cruces, New Mexico 88001 575-523-9826 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday New Mexico Department of Veterans Services 2024 E. Griggs Ave. Las Cruces, NM 88001 575-524-6220/524-6124 United Veterans Council of DoĂąa Ana County P.O. Box 6201 Las Cruces, NM 88006 Meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of every month at VFW 3242

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A GUIDE TO LAS CRUCES CITY HALL ❚ BY CHRISTOPHE CHINO

Las Cruces City Hall, 700 N. Main St., is a one-stop shop for Las Crucens. Anything from connecting and paying for utilities to seeking employment can be done at City Hall. The building also houses the offices for the mayor and all six city councillors. City Hall had its grand opening for its current location in April 2010, and is located next door to Thomas Branigan Memorial Library. Here’s what you can find there.

City Clerk’s Office The city clerk is responsible for conducting city elections. General questions about running for office or voting can be directed to the city clerk’s office. The clerk’s office is also in charge of the city’s official records and records requests. The city clerk can be reached at 575-541-2115.

Utilities The City of Las Cruces provides the gas, water, sewer and trash services within city limits. Get connected at City Hall. You can also pay your bill or transfer services if you move. The

office is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For information, call 575-528-3500.

Community Development Office The Community Development Office at City Hall issues building permits and business licenses and handles transportation planning, community development and construction review. The review process examines both current construction projects and those currently in formation. If you are looking to start a business or seek to better understand the permitting process, contact the Community Development Office at 575-528-3222.

Neighborhood Services Neighborhood Services’ main priority is to assist Las Crucens with housing needs. It provides affordable housing opportunities for those who are at or below 80 percent of the area median income through a partnership with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Home Rehabilitation Program assists low- and medium-income Las Crucens to bring their homes up to current

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

Public Works

Public Works is responsible for construction and maintenance of public buildings, service facilities, gas and water lines, along with the city’s roads and streets. To reach the Public Works office, call 575-528-3333.

Risk Management Risk Management’s ultimate duty is safety. It processes any claims against the city and workers’ compensation claims. It also addresses overall safety concerns. Reach the office at 575-528-3665.

Human Resources The human resources office at city hall hires and handles the city’s workforce. Looking for a job with the City of Las Cruces? Visit www.las-cruces.org or call 575-528-3020.

City Council The City Council office at City Hall holds the offices of both the mayor and the six city council members. Councillors hold office hours, and are available for walkins when in the office. You can also call or email your district representative. City Council meetings are held on the first and third Monday of each month, and work sessions for the council are held on the second and fourth Monday of each month. Residents are invited to attend both meetings in order to keep up with new issues and concerns facing the city, and to also bring up individual concerns to the council. The office may be reached Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 575541-2066. Learn more about City Council at www.las-cruces.org/en/departments/ city-council.

LAS CRUCES CITY COUNCIL Mayor Ken Miyagishima Term ends: December 2019 Office: 575-522-0002 Cell: 575-571-2440 mayor@las-cruces.org District 1 Kasandra Gandara Term ends: December 2019 Office: 575-541-2073 Cell: 575-915-7593 kgandara@las-cruces.org District 2 Mayor Pro-Tem Greg Smith Term ends: December 2019 Office: 575-541-2068 Cell: 575-202-1602 gsmith@las-cruces.org

District 4 Jack Eakman Term ends: December 2019 Office: 575-541-2071 Cell: 575-915-7941 jeakman@las-cruces.org

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codes and standards. This office also seeks to ease and maintain proper landlordtenant relations. For questions regarding housing services, call 575-528-3022.

District 5 Gill Sorg Term ends: December 2017 Office: 575-541-2072 Cell: 575-635-1767 gsorg@las-cruces.org District 6 Cecilia “Ceil” Levatino Term ends: December 2017 Office: 575-541-2069 Cell: 575-635-2693 clevatino@las-cruces.org

District 3 Olga Pedroza Term ends: December 2017 Office: 575-541-2070 Cell: 575-635-1371 opedroza@las-cruces.org

DOÑA ANA COUNTY COMMISSION District 1 Billy G. Garrett Term ends: December 2018 Office: 525-5808 Cell: 575-915-5755 bgarrett@donaanacounty.org District 2 Vice-chair David Garcia Term ends: December 2016 Office: 575-525-5804 Cell: 575-635-5212 dgarcia@donaanacounty.org District 3 Ben Rawson Term ends: December 2018

Office: 575-525-5807 Cell: 575-644-4055 brawson@donaanacounty. org District 4 Chair Wayne Hancock Term ends: December 2016 Office: 575-525-5810 Cell: 575-520-4560 whancock@donananacounty.org

District 5 Leticia Duarte-Benavidez Term ends: December 2016 Office: 575-525-5810 Cell: 575-635-5146 lbenavidez@donaanacounty.org

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GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

STATE GOVERNMENT

U.S. District 2 Rep. Steve Pearce (R) Term ends: January 2017 570 N. Telshor Blvd. Las Cruces, NM 855-473-2723

Gov. Susana Martinez (R) Term Ends: January 2019 490 Old Santa Fe Trail, Room 400 Santa Fe, NM 505-476-2200 www.governor.state.nm.us

U.S. Sen. Tom Udall (D) Term ends: January 2021 201 N. Church St., Suite 201B Las Cruces, NM 575-526-5475 U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich (D) Term ends: January 2019 505 South Main St., Suite 148 Las Cruces, NM 575-523-6561

Lt. Gov. John Sanchez (R) Term ends: January 2019 490 Old Santa Fe Trail, Room 417 Santa Fe, NM 505-476-2250 www.ltgov.state.nm.us Secretary of State Brad Winter Term ends: January 2017 325 Don Gaspar, Suite 300 Santa Fe, NM 505-827-3600 www.sos.state.nm.us

2016 SOUTHWEST NEW MEXICO LEGISLATIVE GUIDE

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Attorney General Hector Balderas (D) Term ends: January 2019 408 Galisteo St. Villagra Building Santa Fe, NM 505-827-6000 201 N. Church St., Suite 315 Las Cruces, NM 575-526-2280 www.nmag.gov New Mexico Public Regulation Commission District 5 Commissioner Sandy Jones Term ends: January 2019 1120 Paseo De Peralta Santa Fe, NM 505-827-8020 sandy.jones@state.nm.us www.nmprc.state.nm.us

COUNTY OFFICIALS Assessor Andy Segovia Term ends: January 2019 845 N. Motel Blvd. Las Cruces, NM 575-647-7400 www.donaanacounty.org/ assessor Clerk Lynn Ellins Term ends: January 2017 845 N. Motel Blvd. Las Cruces, NM 575-647-7421 www.donaanacounty.org/ clerk Treasurer David Gutierrez Term ends: December 2016 845 N. Motel Blvd. Las Cruces, NM 575-647-7433 www.donaanacounty.org/ treasurer

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575.524.8061 Fax 575.526.4621 1740-A Calle De Mercado Las Cruces, NM 88005 lascrucesbulletin.com

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

Sheriff Enrique “Kiki” Vigil Term ends: January 2019 845 N. Motel Blvd. Las Cruces, NM 575-525-1911 www.donaanacounty.org/ sheriff Probate Judge Diana Bustamante Term ends: December 2018 845 N. Motel Blvd. Las Cruces, NM 575-525-6132 www.donaanacounty.org/ probate District Attorney Mark D’Antonio (D) Term ends: December 2016 845 N. Motel Blvd., Suite D Las Cruces, NM 575-524-6370 www.donaanacountyda. com

JUDICIAL Las Cruces Presiding Municipal Judge Kieran F. Ryan Term ends: November 2019 135 E. Griggs Ave. Las Cruces, NM 575-541-2224 www.las-cruces.org/ departments/municipalcourt Third Judicial District Court Chief Judge Fernando R. Macias Term ends: December 2020 201 W. Picacho Ave. Las Cruces, NM 575-523-8200 www.thirddistrcitcourt. com

City Hall (Includes utilities department) 700 N. Main St., Las Cruces, NM 88001 575-541-2000 Doña Ana County Government Center (Includes sheriff’s department and district attorney offices) 845 N. Motel Blvd. 575-647-7256

2540 El Paseo Road No. 2 575-524-6225 New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division Loretto Town Center 505 S. Main St. Suite 357 575-524-6215 3291 Del Rey Blvd., Suite 10 575-647-2044 www.mvd.newmexico.gov

Magistrate Court 110 Calle de Alegra 575-524-2814 Las Cruces Municipal Court 135 E. Griggs Ave. 575-541-2224 Federal Courthouse 100 N. Church St. 575-528-1400

State Income Support Division 2121 Summit Court 575-524-6568

U.S. Social Security Administration 2141 Summit Court 866-563-9294

New Mexico Department of Health 1170 N. Solano Drive 575-528-5000

655 Utah Ave. 575-524-6500

Las Cruces Police Department Headquarters 217 E. Picacho Ave. 575-528-4200

New Mexico Workforce Solutions 226 S. Alameda Blvd. 575-524-6250

Internal Revenue Service 2540 El Paseo Road No. 2 575-524-6225 Loretto Town Center 505 S. Main St. Suite 149 575-526-0161 New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department

Tribute

New Mexico State Police 4055 Sonoma Ranch Blvd. 575-382-2500 Third Judicial District Court 201 W. Picacho Ave., Las Cruces 575-523-8200

GOVERNMENT & MILITARY

GOVERNMENT OFFICES

U.S. Postal Service 201 E. Las Cruces Ave. 575-524-2903 1180 Commerce Drive 575-521-4953 3800 W. Picacho Ave. 575-524-2195

TIE IN THE SKY

❚ BY RICHARD COLTHARP

So why in the world is there a big bowtie hanging in a tree in Klein Park, in the historic Mesquite Street District in Las Cruces? The bowtie was dedicated Feb. 16, 2016, on what would have been former Las Cruces City Councillor Miguel Silva’s 56th birthday. Silva passed away a month before the dedication, and the tie was presented to commemorate the work he did as city councillor and the eclectic way he dressed. He typically wore a colorful bowtie, and had a decorative hat for any and all occasions. The Mesquite Historic District was Silva’s neighborhood, the residents his “people,” the park his sanctuary, and the tree, his sanctum. The district group Las Esperanzas and the Court Youth Center, two of Silva’s favorite organizations, coordinated creation of the bowtie, built by artist Scotty Murray.

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Decorated commander heads WSMR information warfare White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) came officer at the Joint under new command in June 2016, following Intelligence Center Pacific. After graduation from Command and the departure of Brig. Gen. Timothy R. Coffin. General Staff College he served as executive Brig. Gen. Eric L. Sanchez took the reins of WSMR following his position in Fort Shafter, officer of the 2nd Battalion 43rd Air Defense Hawaii as the commanding general of the Artillery Regiment from 2000 to 2002. Then, until 2003, Sanchez served as deputy 94th Army Air and Missile Defense Command commanding officer for the 108th Air Defense (AAMDC). Sanchez is an alumni of New Mexico State Artillery Brigade, and during his stint as the University, and in a press release from March DCO, he deployed to Iraq with the brigade. Next, Sanchez served on the United States 2016, he made it clear he’s very happy to be Pacific Command Staff from 2003 back in the area. to 2005. “I have roots in the Las Cruces "I have roots in He also helped set up the community as a New Mexico the Las Cruces 94th Air and Missile Defense State University graduate, and my community as Command at Fort Shafter from wife, Teresa, is a Mesilla native,” a New Mexico 2005 to 2006. he said. “WSMR is vital to today’s State University From 2006 to 2008, Sanchez Army, as well as the Department graduate, and my served at Fort Bliss as the of Defense, and I look forward to being part of the WSMR team that wife, Teresa, is a commander of the 1st Battalion Mesilla native." 7th Air Defense Artillery continues to test, evaluate and Regiment, which deployed to train to bring our troops home to Korea from 2007 to 2008. their families.” Following this command, he served as After commissioning into the Army as an officer, Sanchez served at Fort Bliss, Texas, deputy director of the Army’s Training and from 1988 to 1992. During his time as a Doctrine Command. Sanchez also commanded the 35th Air platoon leader and battery executive officer, Defense Artillery Brigade in Osan, Korea he deployed with the 3rd Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment during Desert from 2011 to 2013. Following his time in Korea, Sanchez served Storm in 1991. From 1992 to 1995 Sanchez served as as the DCO of the 32nd AAMDC, once again battalion logistics officer, and commanded back at Fort Bliss. Sanchez then took command of the same D Battery, 2nd Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment, at Fort Polk, Louisiana, after 94th AAMDC at Fort Shafter that he helped which he instructed at the Intelligence Officer create. With an extensive career of various Basic Course at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, from 1995 to 1997. After his assignment at leadership positions, Sanchez brings a Fort Huachuca, he traveled to Hawaii as an background of excellence to WSMR. ❚ BY CHRISTOPHE CHINO

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

New Mexico is unique in many ways, but one thing that sets it apart from its neighbors is the distinctive relationship that its citizens have with area military bases. Fort Bliss, located in Texas, includes range space within New Mexico. Two New Mexico bases, Holloman Air Force Base and White Sands Missile Range, along with the Fort Bliss’ facilities,

are located in the southern part of the state. The ups and downs of each of these installations have a direct economic impact on the surrounding communities. Likewise, the support and involvement of the communities that host these installations have significant impacts on their ability to carry out their respective missions.

GOVERNMENT & MILITARY

AREA MILITARY INSTALLATIONS INTEGRAL TO MESILLA VALLEY

MILITARY BASES AT A GLANCE Holloman AFB

ing in support of the Nation at war.

Branch: Air Force

Vision: Be the premier open air test range for U.S. and allied customers, delivering superior testing, evaluation, research, exercises, training, innovative products and venues through a highly skilled and adaptive workforce. Always the best value; focusing on affordability and stewardship of resources, providing results that consistently exceed customer expectations while providing a high quality of life for service members, civilians and families.

Established: 1942 as Alamogordo Army Airfield Land area: 59,639 acres Commander: Col. Robert E. Kiebler, 49th Wing Website: www.holloman.af.mil Mission/Vision: The 49th Wing — host wing at Holloman Air Force Base — supports national security objectives by deploying worldwide to support peacetime and wartime contingencies. The wing provides combat-ready airmen and trains MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper pilots and sensor operators. Additionally, the wing delivers Air Transportable Clinics and Basic Expeditionary Airfield Resources while providing support to more than 17,000 military and civilian personnel to include German Air Force Flying Training center operations, though its departing in 2017. The wing has a proud history of service in World War II, Korea, Southeast Asia, Southwest Asia and NATO-led Operation Allied Force.

White Sands Missile Range Branch: Army Established: 1945 Land area: 3,200 square miles, spanning five counties. It’s the largest military installation in the United States. Commander: Brig. Gen. Eric L. Sanchez Website: www.wsmr.army.mil Mission: White Sands Missile Range provides Army, Navy, Air Force, DoD and other customers with high quality services for experimentation, test, research, assessment, development and train-

Fort Bliss Branch: Army Established: Military Post of El Paso, 1848. The posts first troops arrived in 1849. In 1853, the installation relocated and it was officially renamed Fort Bliss in 1854. Land area: 1,700 square miles. It is the Army’s second largest installation. Commander: Maj. Gen. Stephen M. Twitty Website: www.bliss.army.mil Mission: To fulfill the Army's obligation to keep the American people and the Army informed, and help to establish the conditions that lead to confidence in America's Army and its readiness to conduct operations in peacetime, conflict, and war. Vision: An innovative leader in communicating to all audiences, the installation and the senior leadership's strong commitment to soldiers and families; to refocus on transformation, warrior ethos, and in all tasks reflect the seriousness and sense of urgency of an army at war.

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BUSINESS

A GREEN RIBBON RUNS THROUGH IT

AGRICULTURE CONTINUES TO EXPAND IN THE MESILLA VALLEY

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

BUSINESS

❚ BY JACKYE MEINECKE PHOTO BY TRACY ROY

A green ribbon winds through the Mesilla Valley and Las Cruces as farms and ranches cluster along the Rio Grande. Many move to Las Cruces enamored of the dramatic contrast of the rugged Organ Mountains and Chihuahuan desert with the rural green belt. Farming and ranching determine the character of the community from many directions. The agriculture industry has molded the valley’s history, supplied economic support and provided a rural lifestyle that many residents have come to treasure. By 1894, agriculture had become an institution in the Mesilla Valley. In recognition

of the growth of farming, ranching and related industries in Doña Ana County, New Mexico State University was established in 1889 as a land-grant agriculture college to prepare and educate future agriculture leaders. “New Mexico is the second oldest state in the nation in agriculture production,” Secretary of Agriculture Jeff Witte, with the New Mexico Department of Agiculture, said in a television interview. More than 2,000 farms that employ almost 3,000 people bring in more than $350 million dollars in sales to the region, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service. “We are heading towards a brighter future. Continued on page 44 ❚

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❚ Continued from page 43 Farmers are optimistic this year,” Doña Ana County Cooperative Extension Agronomy and Horticulture Agent Jeff Anderson said. Anderson attributes some of this optimism to increased winter moisture and more irrigation water promised by the Elephant Butte Irrigation District, which provides water to the Mesilla Valley from the Elephant Butte and Caballo storage dams. “Water is coming back more than in the last two years,” said Jim Libbin, interim dean of NMSU’s College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences. “We are more dependent on crops in Doña Ana County.” Irrigation and moisture do not affect the livestock, dairy and food production industries as intensely as they affect the valley crops, including lettuce, onions, chile, grapes, corn, cotton and pecans. Both Anderson and Libbin agree the drought over the last few years has had a negative impact on the industry — both crops and livestock. However, despite the drought, agriculture continues to expand, particularly pecan production. “Pecans are looking good,” Libbin said. He attributes the growth and current success of pecan production to sales in foreign markets, especially China. He also points to the New Mexico Department of Agriculture’s efforts to market pecans globally. “The world seeks our food. As the world population grows, so does the need for food. The world sees the United States’ food as the safest in the world,” Witte said in a television interview. This perception encourages the growth of agriculture in New Mexico and in many international markets. “Agriculture is a growing industry in our valley,” Anderson said. He reports the number of acres in production has risen over the last five years from 589,373 acres to 659,970 acres. This increase occurred despite drops in commodities prices. While agriculture industry figures support its value for the local economy, the industry

and local residents connect at the Las Cruces farmers market and others around the county. “Farmers’ markets are exploding,” Libbin said. “The most exciting thing is to see local produce sold in the farmers’ market.” The Farmers and Crafts Market of Las Cruces began in 1971. It is held weekly on Main Street in Downtown Las Cruces. The market celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2011, and was named “Number One Large Farmers Market in the Nation” in America’s Farmland Trust’s 2011 nationwide poll. Libbin also observed that New Mexico has seen growth in small farms, CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture) and organic production. Witte said there has been great growth in the area of farm-to-retail production. “The local perspective is looking good,” Libbin said.

FYI/ AG FACTS • Value of agricultural products in Doña Ana County: $351,032,000. • Agricultural products are produced on 2,184 farms. • Average size of a Doña Ana County farm: 302 acres. • Doña Ana County ranked fourth and fifth, respectively, in New Mexico for the number of milk cows, cattle and calves. As of Jan. 1, 2015, the county reported 83,000 head of cattle and calves, and 37,000 milk cows. The county also produces 800 head of sheep and lambs. • Major crops of Doña Ana County: chile, corn, pecans, upland and pima cotton and alfalfa. • Alfalfa was produced on 18,600 acres in 2014. Corn silage was grown on 6,200 acres. Chile production took place on 2,000 acres. • In 2014, Doña Ana County ranked second in the state for production of chile, upland cotton and alfalfa. Source: USDA, U.S. Census Bureau, National Agricultural Statistics Service “2014 New Mexico Annual Bulletin”

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

BUSINESS

Looking Ahead

HERITAGE FARM WILL SHOWCASE CROPS, BOLSTER AG EDUCATION ❚ BY JACKYE MEINECKE PHOTO BY TRACY ROY

At the intersection of Union and University avenues, history, education, agriculture and economic development will meet in a project called Heritage Farm. This vision, promoted by New Mexico State University Chancellor Garrey Carruthers, integrates a variety of initiatives under one banner. Using the Las Cruces Convention Center as the hub, the Heritage Farm would preserve the historic Fabian Garcia seed house, the oldest adobe building on the NMSU campus. This building will house the Chile Pepper Institute and other university agriculture research projects, as well as a retail store promoting New Mexico agriculture products from cheese to hot sauce. “NMSU seeks to showcase the university’s agricultural roots, advance current research and support private and public economic initiatives with the development of Heritage Farm — a welcoming, park-like gateway to the NMSU campus,” according to the NMSU case statement for Heritage Farm. The 10-acre plot would showcase many New Mexico crops, such as pecans, cotton, alfalfa, chile peppers, onions and more. The park-like setting with walkways, seating areas and multi-use gathering points will also feature a winery and a brewery, which will serve as learning laboratories for students. “If we do it right, it will complement the (New Mexico) Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum. It will certainly complement the convention center,” said Jim Libbin, interim dean of NMSU’s College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences. NMSU Associate Vice President for Development Terra Winter expects some aspects of the Heritage Farm plan to come together over the next three to five years, during Carruthers’ leadership at NMSU. “The Heritage Farm will be an economic driver,” she said. Its development is dependent upon confirmation of an agreement with a hotel company to build on the campus, according to Winter and Libbin. Winter said the university is seeking a public/ private partnership for the hotel. “The Heritage Farm would be a great deal for Las Cruces, New Mexico and NMSU,” Libbin said. “When the hotel deal is confirmed, then funding for the Heritage Farm will take off.”

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BUSINESS

Chambers of Commerce CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE WORK TO STRENGTHEN LOCAL BUSINESS, ECONOMY ❚ BY CHRISTOPHE CHINO

There are three chambers of commerce serving Las Cruces: The Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce, the Las Cruces Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Las Cruces Green Chamber of Commerce. Here’s a look at each one.

GREATER LAS CRUCES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce, 505 S. Main St., promotes economic stability and business success in the Las Cruces community, through services offered to members and networking. The chamber represents more than 900 businesses in Las Cruces and Doña Ana County. “The chamber is a collective voice of the business community in the region,” Vicepresident Troy Tudor said. “But we also have a track record for not just representing businesses in the community, but the community as a whole.” Members, depending on their level of membership, will have access to workshops, workforce development and many other resources that can aid success in business. An application to join the chamber may be completed online on the chamber’s website or at its offices. Membership levels and dues vary, ranging from $99 to up to $10,000 per year, depending on the classification. For information, call 575-524-1968 or visit www. lascruces.org.

LAS CRUCES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Las Cruces Hispanic Chamber, 277 E. Amador Ave., Suite 305, is geared toward giving Hispanic-owned or operated small

businesses the resources in which to grow and expand, but is not limited to assisting that demographic; rather, it reaches out to the Las Cruces community as a whole. According to its website, the organization boasts 300 members, which includes businesses, individuals and students. Membership applications can completed on the Chamber’s website, www. lascruceshispanicchamber.com. Membership ranges from $45 per year for students up to $10,000 for large business owners. There are two types of membership — traditional and expanded. The expanded version of membership offers additional services like advertising and technical assistance. Reach the office at 575-524-8900.

LAS CRUCES GREEN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Las Cruces Green Chamber of Commerce, 221 N. Main St., focuses on strengthening local businesses as the other chambers do, but the Green Chamber also promotes environmental accountability and the benefits of renewable energy. “We are really here to help support the local economy while also doing our part to create a sustainable community in Las Cruces,” CEO and President Carrie Hamblen said. “Another main goal is the protection of the air and water in our community.” The Chamber makes locally owned businesses a priority because those are the businesses that give back to the community the most, Hamblen said. Membership applications are available online at www.locallascruces.com or by calling 575-323-1575.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

❚ BY CHRISTOPHE CHINO

MVEDA

MVEDA, a regional public-private economic development partnership based in Las Cruces, is committed to helping local businesses grow and out-of-town companies find the resources they need to relocate to Doña Ana County. MVEDA targets seven private-sector industries well suited to Doña Ana County: manufacturing and logistics, aerospace, renewable energy, business and financial services, technology, value-added agriculture and digital media. Services MVEDA provides include real estate searches, assistance finding the right employees, help with funding sources and local connections, and providing data or conducting research. For information, visit www.mveda.com or call 575-523-5707 or 800-523-6833.

stage of small business growth and creation, such as business planning, bookkeeping and financing. The services are free of charge. For information, visit www.scorelascruces.org or call 575-523-5627.

BUSINESS

AREA ORGANIZATIONS OFFER RESOURCES TO SMALL BUSINESSES

SBDC

The Doña Ana Community College’s Small Business Development Center (SBDA) is a service provided by the DACC for both students and Las Crucens who are looking to create a business, own an existing business, or need help developing a business to the next level. The SBDC’s workshops include subjects such as starting a new business, business writing, social media utilization, business tax and marketing. SBDC provides assistance free of charge. For information, call 575-527-7676 or visit www. dacc.nmsu.edu/sbdc

WESST

WESST is a statewide organization that centers on business growth and training, with an entrepreneurial opportunities-based chapter in Las Cruces. It offers training for those who wish to enter or bring a business into the workforce. Some of the numerous courses hosted by the organization include applicable subjects such as budgeting, setting business goals, credit building, risk management and business planning. WESST has several business “incubators” across the state, assists with loans for those that don’t reach the criteria, and does consulting. WESST may be reached at 575-541-1583 or online at www.WESST.org.

SCORE

SCORE is an organization that aims to help small businesses start and gain momentum. SCORE offers business mentoring, which includes one-on-one mentoring with individuals who have practical and extensive experience in the business world. The mentoring aims to help those who seek to open or expand a business with advice that can be used in today’s market. The organization also hosts a slate of workshops and events that center on the developmental

My Community

Main Branch 505 S. Main St., Las Cruces, NM 575-647-4100

Country Club Branch 2841 N. Main St., Las Cruces, NM 575-647-4136

Roadrunner Branch 3991 E. Lohman Ave., Las Cruces, NM 575-528-6300

Picacho Branch 3030 W. Picacho Ave., Las Cruces, NM 575-528-6363

University Branch 3065 E. University Ave., Las Cruces, NM 575-647-6700

T or C Branch 1920 N. Date St., T or C, NM 575-894-0820

575-647-4100

www.citizenslc.com

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BUSINESS

SPACEPORT: AN INVITATION TO SPACE ❚ BY CHRISTOPHE CHINO PHOTO BY TRACY ROY

Spaceport America, located in the Jornada del Muerto desert basin northwest of White Sands Missile Range, is a commercial spaceport that aims to provide affordable access to space for its customers. Virgin Galactic and SpaceX are its current tenants, but it has been host to launches for UP Aerospace and Armadillo Aerospace. Its mission is “to provide a supportive home for our commercial space tenants and customers so that they can make great contributions to the industry and also to inspire and delight our visitors,” according to its website, spaceportamerica.com. The spaceport is currently home to Virgin Galactic’s WhiteKnightTwo and SpaceShip Two, and SpaceX’s Falcon 9R. It is situated on 18,000 acres, with a concrete runway that is 200-feet wide, four feet deep and more than two miles long. It lies 89 miles north of El Paso, 45 miles north of Las Cruces and 20 miles southeast of Truth or Consequences. On Nov. 6, 2015, the spaceport hosted the launch of the UP Aerospace SpaceLoft rocket. The rocket carried several scientific and engineering experiments along with it. It reached a height of approximately 74 miles. The rocket returned to the ground with the experiment payloads about 30 miles from the launch site. The next UP Aerospace launch is planned for November 2016. During the 2016 New Mexico legislative session, a bill allowing Spaceport America to apply for a liquor license was passed and signed by Gov. Susana Martinez. In another attempt to increase the number of visitors, a construction project will begin in July 2016, which will be aimed at offering paved road access from Las Cruces to the spaceport. Currently, the route to the spaceport from Las Cruces requires driving on a rough dirt road, which deters some people from making the trip. Spaceport America preview tours are available on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through tour operator Follow the Sun, Inc. The tours can be booked through the Spaceport America website or by calling 575-740-6894 or toll free at 866-428-4SUN. In addition to preview tours and space launches, the spaceport hosts special events, photo shoots, filming and air-related activities.

FYI/ Spaceport America Fast Facts • 24 total vertical launches • 6,000 visitors to Spaceport America Visitor Center since June 2015 • $9.5 million estimated annual statewide economic impact in 2015 • More than 2,000 jobs created Source: Spaceport America

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

BUSINESS

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BUSINESS

SHOPPING LOCAL HELPS VITALIZE A COMMUNITY ❚ BY CHRISTOPHE CHINO PHOTOS BY DAWN FRANCO

Shopping at local stores offers incentives that range from fresher food to a more personal shopping experience. The biggest incentive of them all, though, is to have the money spent in the community stay in the community. Local businesses are most frequently involved in the community since that’s where the shop owners, managers and employees live. Ultimately, a locally owned business has much more riding on the success of a certain community compared to a national or even international business that has locations all over the map. “Shopping local has been shown to strengthen local economies and increase donations to local nonprofits through reinvestment, so it is very important to Las Cruces,” Executive Director of Downtown Las Cruces Partnership Arianna Parsons said. The Downtown Las Cruces Partnership is an organization that centers on the business success of Downtown Las Cruces, with a focus on the retention and expansion of local businesses. The Las Cruces Green Chamber of Commerce promotes local business success with its “Think Local First” initiative, an endeavor headed by the organization to encourage people to shop and eat locally. The chamber has created a “Think Local First” guide that provides information regarding the whereabouts of restaurants and shops that are locally owned. There are numerous events and incentives that promote sustainability and business appreciation in Las Cruces as well. The Farmers & Crafts Market of Las Cruces is one of the best-known venues for residents to buy and sell locally created products. Anything from produce to handmade crafts can be found at the famers market. The market is held on from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays on Main Street in Downtown Las Cruces. The market began providing vendors with a location in 1971 and continues to help promote locally owned and operated vendors. The Mountain View Market Co-op, a store that specializes in natural, organic and local products, offers a membership program that can save a shopper up to 10 percent off products at locally owned stores around the city — an incentive to keep revenue within the region. The membership program attempts to bring local businesses and shoppers together. The “Think Local First” guide can be found at numerous stores and restaurants around Las Cruces, or by visiting www.nmgreenchamber.com/2011/12/ las-cruces-think-local-first-guide.com.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

Business Skills InstituteLas Cruces 575-526-5579

LTD Driving School 575-525-2328 http://ltddrivingschool.com

Doña Ana Community College 575-527-7500 http://dacc.nmsu.edu

Massage Therapy Training Institute 575-523-6811 http://mtti.org

DACC Customized Training Program 575-527-7776 http://dacc.nmsu.edu/ctp International Truck Driving School 575-523-2266 http://internationalschools.com Las Cruces Workforce Connection Center 575-524-6250

Mesilla Valley Training Center 575-527-6059 http://mvtc.lcps.k12.nm.us Mesilla Valley Training Institute 575-541-7983 www.m-v-t-i.com New Mexico State University 575-646-3121 www.nmsu.edu

New Mexico Works Program 575-532-0233 www.slstart.com/new-mexicoworks

BUSINESS

WORKFORCE TRAINING Olympian University 575-523-7181 www.olympianuniversity.com Small Business Development Center 575-527-7676 www.nmsbdc.org/lascruces University of Phoenix – Santa Teresa Learning Center 575-874-4600 www.phoenix.edu Vista College/Computer Career Center 575-993-5952 www.vistacollege.edu

INDUSTRY TAX CREDITS GENERAL INCENTIVES

• Job Training Incentive Program (JTIP) • Industrial Revenue Bonds (IRB) • Local Economic Development Act (LEDA) • New Markets Tax Credit

INDUSTRY-SPECIFIC INCENTIVES

Advanced manufacturing • Angel Investment Credit • Consumables Gross Receipts Tax Deduction for Manufacturers • High Wage Jobs Tax Credit • Investment Tax Credit for Manufacturers • Rural Jobs Tax Credit • Single Sales Factor • Texas/New Mexico Border Residents’ Tax Exemption Aerospace and aviation • Aircraft Deduction • High Wage Jobs Tax Credit • Military Acquisition Program Tax Deduction • Research and Development Tax Deduction • Rural Jobs Tax Credit • Space Gross Receipts Tax Deductions Back office and technical support • Financial Management Tax Credit • High Wage Jobs Tax Credit • Rural Jobs Tax Credit

Emerging and digital media • Angel Investment Credit • Film Post Production Services Tax Credit • Rural Software Development Gross Receipts Tax Deduction • Technology Jobs Tax Credit • Web Hosting Gross Receipts Tax Deduction Energy and natural resources • Advanced Energy Deduction and Advanced Energy Tax Credit • Alternative Energy Product Manufacturer’s Tax Credit • Biodiesel Blending Facility Tax Credit • Biomass-Related Equipment/Materials Deduction • Renewable Energy Production Tax Credit • Logistics, Distribution & Transportation • Locomotive Fuel Gross Receipts & Compensating Tax Exemption • Texas/New Mexico Border Residents’ Tax Exemption Value-added agriculture • Beer and Wine Producers’ Preferential Tax Rate • Consumables Gross Receipts Tax Deduction for Manufacturers • Investment Tax Credit for Manufacturers • Rural Jobs Tax Credit • Single Sales Factor • Texas/New Mexico Border Residents’ Tax Exemption Source: Mesilla Valley Economic Development Alliance

LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

BUSINESS

City wide Street Upgrades

Good Roads!

Community Investment Projects

Hold Harmless Gross Receipts Taxes (HHGRT) t 4USFFU NJDSP TVSGBDJOH fund $13.6 Million in CIP Road Projects t .JMM PWFSMBZ QSPKFDUT t 1BWFNFOU SFQMBDFNFOU t 4USFFU SFDPOTUSVDUJPO

Start Date Spring/Summer 2016 Micro Surfacing Projects - $1,011,260.00

Pavement Replacement Projects - $2,034,000

STREET

FROM

STREET

FROM

TRIVIZ DR DEL REY BLVD TELSHOR BLVD HACIENDA AVE LOHMAN AVE HOAGLAND RD ELKS DR RINCONADA BLVD PINON AVE ETHEL AVE SENNA DR HICKORY AVE BARKER RD PEACHTREE HILLS RD HEATHER CIRCLE SETTLERS PASS SONOMA RANCH BLVD. ENGLER RD W AMADOR AVE MESA GRANDE RINCONADA BLVD

GRIGGS AVE MARS AVE DEL REY BLVD REYNOLDS DR ROADRUNNER PWKY ALAMEDA BLVD MAIN ST NORTHRISE DR SOLANO DR 6TH ST LAS ALTURAS DR AVENIDA DE MESILLA AVENIDA DE MESILLA HOLMAN RD ELKS DR 725â&#x20AC;&#x2122; E. OF RINCONADA LAS COLINAS DR ROADRUNNER PKWY ALAMEDA BLVD US 70 US 70

BENTLEY SANDHILL ARROYO SUMMIT CT CORTEZ DR 570â&#x20AC;&#x2122; E. OF ROADRUNNER PKWY VALLEY DR REINA DR SONOMA RANCH BLVD VIRGINA ST 5TH ST CITY LIMITS HICKORY LOOP EBID LATERAL MESA DR EIKS DR 1,100â&#x20AC;&#x2122; W. OF ROADRUNNER PKWY SIERRA BONITA DR EAST END MCSWAIN DR CENTRAL SETTLERS PASS

CARLEN CT JENICE CT N. VIRGINIA ST TANJA CT MARGARET ST N. MESQUITE ST DRAKE CT TERRACE ARC VASSAR CT HAGERTY RD HARRELSON ST DARLENE DR MOUNTAIN SHADOW ST PATRICIA CT S. ESPARANZA ST SAN JUAN AVE SUMNER CT MARCY ST CLIFFORD AVE CIMARRON CT CIMARRON DR ROADRUNNER PKWY CIMARRON DR

MULBERRY AVE DEBRA ST SPRUCE AVE SPITZ ST MARTHA DR MULBERRY AVE STANFORD ST TERRACE DR STANFORD ST PLAIN ST COLLEGE AVE MULBERRY AVE BIRCH DR PERI ANN DR MONTANA AVE DEL MONTE ST CRAIG AVE STANTON AVE MESA GRANDE DR CIMARRON DR CUL-DE-SAC SANTO DOMINGO AVE DURANGO CT

CUL-DE-SAC CUL-DE-SAC E. PICACHO AVE CUL-DE-SAC E. MADRID AVE POPLAR AVE CUL-DE-SAC CUL-DE-SAC CUL-DE-SAC NORTH END UNION AVE ANITA DR MOUNTAIN VIEW AVE CUL-DE-SAC DEAD END TO SOUTH CUL-DE-SAC CUL-DE-SAC WEBSTER AVE STEWARDS DR CUL-DE-SAC

Mill/Overlay Projects - $1,572,945.00 STREET

FROM

POPLAR AVE AMADOR AVE EL CAMINO REAL ARLINGTON AVE E. UNION AVE E. GRIGGS AVE AKERS ST MAGES ST NEMESH DR CORTEZ DR DEL REY BLVD BOUTZ RD MAJESTIC TERRACE DR

SOLANO DR TORNILLO ST AGUILERA CT (CITY LIMITS) TRIVIZ DR S. MAIN ST SOLANO DR NEMESH DR NEMESH DR MAGES ST DE VARGAS AVE CITY LIMITS S. MAIN ST S. TELSHOR BLVD

CALLE SOSA SOLANO DR US 70 (N. MAIN ST) CAMINIO DEL REX UNIVERSITY AVE WALNUT ST SENECA DR SENECA DR HEATHER AVE DUNN DR CHECK DR VALLEY DR TO EAST END LOOP

MICRO SURFACING MILL/OVERLAY PAVEMENT REPLACEMENT RECONSTRUCTED STREETS

TOTAL TOTAL TOTAL TOTAL

= = = =

Grand Total = $13,573,963.49

$1,011,260.00 $1,572,945.00 $2,034,000.00 $8,955,758.49

Reconstructed Streets Projects - $8,955,759 STREET

FROM

2ND 3RD 4TH 6TH BROWN RD BROWNLEE AVE CAMBRIDGE DR CLARK RD COURT AVE HADLEY AVE JODY AVE KAREN AVE MADRID AVE MIRANDA AVE RICHARD RD TERRY DR UTAH AVE

PICACHO AVE PICACHO AVE PICACHO AVE PICACHO AVE VALLEY DR VALLEY DR MAIN ST MAYFIELD RD WATER ST REYMOND ST RICHARD DR DONA ANA RD MARTHA DR PARKER RD DONA ANA RD JODY DR EL PASEO RD

HADLEY AVE HADLEY AVE HADLEY AVE HADLEY AVE CIRCLE DR FIRST ST EASTERN DEAD END BRUINS LN MELENDRES AVE MESILLA ST KAREN AVE EASTERN DEAD END TRIVIZ DR PALMER RD EASTERN DEAD END RICHARD DR MESQUITE ST

CLCGOV

400â&#x20AC;&#x2122; N. OF GOLF CLUB RD ROADRUNNER PKWY

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

www.las-cruces.org

BUSINESS

The more MVEDA promotes this area, the better for all. When a business comes into the area, it involves our services, and for that I am thankful! -HÎ? %DQHJDV 3UHVLGHQW $EOH 6LJQ &R Î&#x2013;QF

JOBS

OUR REGION

YOU

277 E. AMADOR, STE. 304 LAS CRUCES, NEW MEXICO 575-525-2852 MVEDAMATTERS.COM

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BUSINESS

AVANZANDO JUNTOS! MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER! MEMBER BENEFITS Networking Opportunities Business-to-Business Discounts Workshops and Seminars Ribbon Cuttings Foreign Investment Facilitation Advocacy Online Directory

MARKETING SOLUTIONS El Prospero E-Marketing Bi-Monthly Mailouts Branding Marketing on the Fly Sponsorship Opportunities

ANNUAL EVENTS Awards Banquet Golf Tournament Foreign Investment Trade Mission Small Business Expo Latina Leadership Summit Healthcare Conference

Richard Aguilar

Curtis Rosemond

Rick Supple

Wendy Zuñiga

President, Executive Committee

Vice President, Events Committee

Treasurer, Finance Committee

Tresco, Inc. Aguilar Accounting

VIP Southwest Services & Tours

Washington Federal

Secretary, Los Amigos Ambassadors

Kirk Clifton

Belia Alvarez

Susan McGonnell

Rosa Bañuelos

Immediate Past President, Economic Development Committee

Board Member, Education Committee

Board Member

Board Member, Marketing Committee

Heritage Hotels & Resorts

El Paso Electric Co. Corporate Development

pp Download App!

The Massage Club

Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine

Spaceport America

575.524.8900 • 277 E. AMADOR SUITE 305 WWW.LASCRUCESHISPANICCHAMBER.COM Facebook: @LasCrucesHispanicChamber

Twitter: @LCHispanicChamb

CATRON

DOÑA ANA

For more than 10 years now, the awardwinning Southwest New Mexico Legislative 2016 Guide, covering legislators and legislative issues from nine counties in southwest New Mexico, has been a valuable and sought-after GUIDE resource. Anyone interested in and involved with New Mexico politics is interested and involved in this publication. If your audience is state government, the legislature, politicians or political aﬁcionados, this publication, which gets in front of some of the most inﬂuential people and organizations in New Mexico, is the place to put your message. Covers Grant County, Luna County, Hidalgo County, Catron County, Doña Ana County, Otero County, Sierra County, Lincoln County, Socorro County and Santa Fe. To learn about advertising opportunities, contact marketing representatives at the Las Cruces Bulletin, 575-524-8061. SOUTHWEST NEW MEXICO

GRANT

Legislative HIDALGO

LINCOLN

LUNA

OTERO

SIERRA

SOCORRO

JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6 | L AS C R U C E S B U L L E T I N

S O U T H W E S T N E W M E X I C O L E G I S L AT I V E G U I D E

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BUSINESS

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SENIOR LIVING

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

SENIOR LIVING

Livin’ it up

in Las Cruces 16 THINGS TO DO IN 2016

❚ BY SUSIE OUDERKIRK PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER BELARDE

Being a senior is a time of freedom — especially when you live in Las Cruces. In addition to an abundance of wisdom and life experience, Las Cruces seniors are full of energy and curiosity. In celebration of the year 2016, here are 16 things to do in Las Cruces if you’re young at heart.

1. Go thrifting at Las Cruces’ awesome second-hand stores for gently used items. Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary Thrift Store, Savers, La Tienda de Jardin, Goodwill, King’s Treasure and My Rich Sister’s Closet (among others) are full of unique items. 2. Sit for a spell and take in the amazing Organ Mountains at Asombro Institute/ Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park. Benches are strategically placed along the wellmarked trails, six miles north of Highway 70 off Jornada Road. Hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. For information, call 524-3334. 3. Volunteer to walk dogs at the Animal Service Center of the Mesilla Valley, 3551

Bataan Memorial Blvd., while the dogs wait for their “fur-ever” homes. A whole gaggle of small dogs are available for stress-free walking (and cuddling). To volunteer, email jofleming@las-cruces.org.

4. Escape for a few hours in the friendly seats of the Las Cruces Community Theatre, 313 N. Main St., or its more-intimate sibling, the Black Box Theatre, 430 N. Main St. Just a few steps apart on Main Street in Downtown Las Cruces, these two theaters offer up inexpensive home-grown theater productions with professional talent. 5. Take a continuing education class at Doña Ana Community College’s Academy for Learning in Retirement, an institution catering to returning (or retired) students. A sampling of courses include climate change, New Mexico state issues and the 2016 elections. Courses take place from 10 a.m. to noon throughout the week at Good Samaritan Village. Email a suggestion for a course you’d like to teach to commed@ dacc.nmsu.edu. Continued on page 58 ❚

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SENIOR LIVING

❚ Continued from page 57

6. Enjoy a wine-tasting afternoon at one of Las Cruces’ charming wineries. Just walk in during regular hours and they’ll make sure you get to sample everything from traditional wines to Southwest surprises. Most local wineries are open seven days a week. 7. Take a walk into the past and the future at the same time. Stroll the rolling green campus of New Mexico State University and reminisce about your own college days. Step into Corbett Center for a refreshing drink and a look at the busy bulletin boards filled with the activities in the lives of our youth. 8. Plant a desert-friendly bush or tree in your yard. Las Cruces may not be the greenest place on Earth, but with a little creativity and common sense, your yard can be its own peaceful slice of heaven. The experts in the Master Gardener’s Program can help at 505865-7340. 9. Clear your mind and take a deep breath.

You can do this anywhere. But promise yourself you’ll actually do it. It’s more therapeutic than you’d think. Yoga or pilates at your nearest gym introduce the basics.

10. Close your eyes and open your ears to the sounds of local musicians, usually free of charge. Several restaurants and bars bring in live musical acts with everything from folk and oldies to blues, country and more. Definitely don’t miss Las Cruces’ Hard Road Trio, crowdpleaser Vince Alten or the unforgettable bluesman C.W. Ayon. 11. Write a poem or start your novel. There’s no place better than the Land of Enchantment to finally put your ideas on paper. The Thomas Branigan Memorial Library, 200 E. Picacho Ave., has everything to help you get started. 12. Revel in the sights, sounds and smells of Las Cruces’ booming farmers and crafts market. Local artisans, farmers and chefs make Main Street a second home every Wednesday and Saturday in Downtown Las Cruces.

The Village at Northrise The Hallmark

Compassionate Care for Quality of Life Maintain dignity, comfort, and quality of life for your loved ones. www.MVhospice.org

575-523-4700 • 299 Montana Ave., Las Cruces

2882 N. Roadrunner Parkway Las Cruces, NM 88011 Phone: 575-522-1110 www.genesishcc.com

HOME. SWEET. HOME. Moving In Has Never Been So Easy!

Fully equipped kitchens Modern bath with shower Ample closet space Front door entry system

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Monitored emergency call system Physically accessible, visual and hearing impaired units Beauty/Barber Shop

SENIOR LIVING

13. Pet a pony at New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum. In addition to its informative indoor exhibits, the museum is home to a variety of ranch animals such as cattle and horses. Make friends on Saturday mornings from 10:30 a.m. to noon with ponies Dolly, Bubbles and Daisy, and breathe in that wonderful farm smell. 14. Picnic by the Rio Grande in La Llorona Park on West Picacho Avenue which offers a walking trail and picnic tables. Grab burritos from the Go Burger drive through, 1008 E. Lohman Ave.

15. Stop in for some interesting — and free — reading material at the Las Cruces Bulletin offices, 1740-A Calle de Mercado. Pick up your weekly Bulletin newspaper, a copy of Desert Exposure or a variety of informative magazines such as the annual legislative guide. 16. Do nothing. Give yourself a day off to sleep in, catch up on laundry or binge watch your favorite DVR series. “Breaking Bad” was filmed in New Mexico and it’s a gritty good look at why our state is the most beautiful place on the planet. Call out for pizza delivery and enjoy your own nest.

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SENIOR LIVING

SENIOR SERVICES Ambercare 3870 Foothills Road 575-556-8409 www.ambercare.com Caring LLC (non-medical) 424 N. Main St. 575-524-4678 www.wercaringllc.com City of Las Cruces Senior Citizens Services 975 S. Mesquite St. 575-528-3000 www.las-cruces.org Coordinated Home Health 665 E. University, Suite 1 575-523-8885 www.chhc.com

Dial-A-Ride 575-541-2777

Home Instead Senior Care 880 S. Telshor Blvd. Suite 200 575-522-7133 www.homeinstead.com

Doña Ana Community Resource Center 5745 Ledesma Drive 575-526-8807 Doña Ana County Senior Olympics 205 W. Boutz Road, Building 6, Suite D 575-523-1152 El Paraiso Management Services 1155 S. Telshor Blvd. 575-652-3184 www.elparaisomgmt.com

L&M Christian Home Care 1201 N. 5th St. 575-649-8764 Medicare claim and information 800-633-4227 Mountain Shadows Home Care 800 N. Telshor Blvd., Suite B 575-521-1366 www.genesishealth.com

RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES Golden Mesa 151 N. Roadrunner Parkway 575-522-4219

Good Samaritan Society – Las Cruces Village 3025 Terrace Drive 575-522-1362

Trails West Senior Community 1450 Avenida de Mesilla 575-524-9226

Village at Northrise 2880 N. Roadrunner Parkway 575-522-1110

the community newspaper for Las Cruces, New Mexico

1740-A CALLE DE MERCADO LAS CRUCES, NM 88005

LOCAL NEW • BUSINESS • ARTS

575-524-8061

EVENTS • SPORTS • LEGALS

WWW.LASCRUCESBULLETIN.COM

HEALTH • HOMES

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

The Adobe Assisted Living Facility 1111 E. Mountain Ave. 575-527-2795 www.aristocratlivinglc.com The Aristocrat Assisted Center 2969 Claude Dove 575-521-8188 www.aristocratlivinglc.com Arbors of Del Rey 3731 N. Del Rey Blvd. 575-382-5200 www.vistaliving.com

Casa del Sol Care and Rehabilitation 2905 E. Missouri Ave. 575-522-0404 www.genesishcc.com/ casadelsolcare

Haciendas at Grace Village 2802 Corte Dios 575-524-1020 www.gracevillagelc.com

Cottonbloom Assisted Living Community 5525 Cottonbloom Ct. 575-635-4088 www.cottonbloomal.com Good Samaritan Society-Las Cruces Village 3025 Terrace Drive 575-522-1362 www.good-sam.com

Casa Bella Residential Care Facility 2919 Spitz Ave. 575-527-5535 www.apalinc.com Casa de Oro Care and Rehabilitation 1000 Lujan Hill Road 575-523-4573 www.genesishcc.com/casadeoro

Golden Mesa 151 Roadrunner Pkwy. 575-522-4219 www.holidaytouch.com

Heritage Assisted Living 854 Lettuce Lane 575-525-9215

SENIOR LIVING

ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES

Sagecrest Nursing and Rehabilitation Center 2029 Sagecrest Ct. 575-522-7000 www.sagecrestrehabilitation.com Trails West Senior Community 1450 Avenida de Mesilla 575-524-9226 www.trailswestnm.com Village at Northrise 2880 N. Roadrunner Pkwy. 575-522-1110 www.genesishcc.com/morningside

We care

for who they are

without forgetting who they were.

Machine Sales & Service

QUILT SHOP Fabric, Thread & More

Casa Bella Memory Care 2919 Spitz Avenue Las Cruces, NM 88005

575.636.1142 www.apalinc.com

1601 E. LOHMAN - LAS CRUCES

575.523.2000

LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

SENIOR LIVING

SENIOR OLYMPICS HELPS SENIORS STAY HEALTHY AND ACTIVE ❚ BY TRACY ROY

Las Cruces is one of 29 sanctioned Senior Olympics sites in the state of New Mexico. And the group is booming. Hundreds of athletes compete in more than 20 sports with opportunities for singles, doubles and team play. Each athlete is placed into his or her age category, which starts at 50 in increments of five years. Doña Ana County Senior Olympics Coordinator and Registrar Mike Simione said the DAC Senior Olympics operates year-round, with practice sessions held during off-season times. The goal of Senior Olympics is to provide adults 50 years of age and older with opportunities for a healthy and active lifestyle. “When you enter to participate on the local level, you automatically subscribe to the philosophy: active and healthy lifestyle opportunities,” Simione said. “We stress that on the local level because it is stressed on the

state level, and definitely on the national level. Being healthy is not only physical, but social and mental as well. Senior Olympics provides that.” Local, state and national games are staggered so that, potentially, athletes may compete at all three levels — as long as they’re competing in a sport that’s offered on all three levels. Each local competition season typically kicks off every year in February. The state-level games take place in the summer months each year. The National Senior Games only occur in odd years; even years are for qualifying. Top winners from the state games are eligible to register and compete nationally. The 2017 National Senior Games will be held in Birmingham, Alabama. For information about New Mexico Senior Olympics, visit nmseniorolympics.org, or call 575-386-2050 or 575-649-3167. You may request a registration form by emailing dacso@outlook.com.

Personal care in a comfortable, friendly setting.

Our Family Committed to Your Family www.LaPosadaLiving.org

575-523-4700 • 299 Montana Ave., Las Cruces

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SENIOR LIVING

Senior Programs The Network Volunteer Center The Network connects individuals age 18 and older to volunteer positions at 20+ sites throughout the City of Las Cruces. For information please call 528-3000. Senior Nutrition Program Meal programs offered at our Senior Program sites. No income or residency requirements to participate. For registration information please call 528-3000. Home delivered meals offered to qualified homebound seniors. For intake or information please call 541-2451. Offering meals to those 60 years of age or older at no charge. There is a suggested donation to help defray the cost of food and preparation. Long-Term Care Services Assessments for meals and for home based services including home delivered meals, homemaker services, respite care, case management and resource and referral. Please call 541-2451 for information. Recreation & Education Offering arts and crafts, fitness classes, games, lifelong learning classes, support groups and much more. Activities and programs at the centers are open to individuals 50 or older. For information please call 528-3000. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Program Open to grandparents 55 years of age or older who are raising their grandchildren. Please call 541-2457.

SENIOR CENTERS

Munson Senior Center 975 S. Mesquite Street (575) 528-3000

Benavidez Community Center 1045 McClure Rd. (575) 541-2005

Eastside Community Center 310 N. Tornillo (575) 528-3012

Frank Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien Papen Center 304 W. Bell (575) 541-2455 for meal registration

Sage CafĂŠ 6121 Reynolds Dr.

(575) 528-3151

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SENIOR LIVING

SENIOR CENTERS OFFER YEARROUND ACTIVITIES, MEALS, SERVICES ❚ BY TRACY ROY BULLETIN FILE PHOTOS

For seniors in Las Cruces there is no shortage of activities. Within the walls of Robert B. Munson Center, 975 S. Mesquite St., one can find anything from dancing, card games and educational classes to congregate meals, art, woodworking and jewelry-making. That’s not to mention the billiards. There are four additional centers throughout Las Cruces that provide all-encompassing services to seniors: Benavidez Community Center, Eastside Community Center, Frank O’Brien Papen Community Center and Sage Cafe. The senior recreation program is open to anyone 50 years of age or older. Activities take place during weekdays across the city’s five centers. More than half are free of charge, and the others are low-cost, ranging from $1 to $12. Senior Programs offers both congregate (dine-in) and homedelivered meals. To qualify for the meal programs, seniors must be registered with senior programs and be 60 years of age or older. Suggested donations are $2.50 for congregate meals and $3 for home-delivered. For those 60 and older who are not able to drive, the respite and home-care program helps with tasks that help seniors stay home and maintain independence. The Munson Center is also home to the Volunteer Network Center, which matches volunteers with opportunities in Las Cruces. The successful program currently handles about 250 volunteers. Applications may be picked up at the Munson Center. Applicants are screened and paired up with a volunteer opportunity that matches their interests. The Messenger is a monthly newsletter published by City of Las Cruces Senior Programs that outlines activity and food schedules and highlights volunteers and programs. For information about programs and services offered by Senior Programs, call 575-528-3000.

SENIOR CENTERS

Open Monday-Friday, 575-528-3000 • Munson Center, 975 S. Mesquite St., 8 a.m.-5 p.m. • Eastside Center, 310 N. Tornillo St., 8 a.m.-2 p.m. • Benavidez Center, 1045 McClure Road, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. • Frank O’Brien Papen Center, 304 W. Bell Ave., 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. • Sage Cafe, 6121 Reynolds Drive, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (Tuesday through Friday only)

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Interested in volunteering? • • • •

SENIOR LIVING

LET’S BUILD SOMETHING Build Houses Make a Difference Change Lives Build Community

the community newspaper for Las Cruces, New Mexico LOCAL NEW • BUSINESS • ARTS EVENTS • SPORTS • LEGALS HEALTH • HOMES 840 N. TELSHORE SUITE E 1740-A CALLE DEBLVD, MERCADO LAS 88011 LAS CRUCES, CRUCES, NM 88005 575-524-8061 WWW.LASCRUCESBULLETIN.COM

Visit our website at

www.lascruceshabitat.org Would you like to find out other ways you can help? Call us at:

575.525.0475

CONSIDER JOINING THE LAS CRUCES AARP CHAPTER The Las Cruces AARP Chapter has several activities, such as organizing community service projects and working on important issues impacting New Mexicans. Meetings are every third Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. at the Senior Circle, 3948 E. Lohman. Call Dave for more information: 317-385-8874.*

LITHIA LOVES LAS CRUCES

In the past two years, Lithia Dodge of Las Cruces has doubled the size of its service department, added certified staff and greatly increased its lot. The expansion projects were contracted locally -- an investment of $1.2 million in Las Cruces business. “Lithia is commiteed to Las Cruces and the economy here,” said Vince Armijo, general manager. Lithia has been in Las Cruces since 2012 and operated nationally since 1946. 860 N. Telshor Blvd., Las Cruces Sales: 877-371-4435 Service: 888-415-4934 Parts: 888-415-6376

*Please note any information collected by the chapter will be governed by its privacy policy. Chapters collect separate membership dues from AARP membership dues and are separately incorporated organizations.

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SENIOR LIVING

Passion

FOR LIFE, PASSION FOR GOLF ALDRICH STAYS ACTIVE ON AND OFF THE COURSE

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

SENIOR LIVING

❚ BY JESSICA WHITE-CASON

Editor’s note: This article was first published in the 2016 Doña Ana County Senior Olympics guide. Johnnie Ruth Aldrich says golf is one of her favorite ways to spend time. As a college undergraduate, Aldrich took a semester of golf and she was hooked from the start. Unfortunately, she was unable to fully commit to golf as a hobby once she graduated and began her career as a college professor, teaching both English and Spanish. There was also a distinct lack of affordable places to play. “In those days, golf was a lot more expensive than it is now,” she said. “There were not things like municipal courses and places where people of modest means could play. And I was an English teacher, which means grading papers day and night.” Her life as a golfer began in earnest when she retired in 2002. Her brother gave her an old set of clubs he had squirreled away in his garage. Prior to her first Senior Olympics in 2004, Aldrich said she was only playing golf once or twice a week and that she had no business competing. But with the guidance and support of fellow players, she won her first medal that year. “Senior Olympians are kind to each other,” she said. “Kindness and help for the weak is part of play. At least it is in golf.” Aldrich has improved since her first year, but like any good athlete, she still sees room for improvement. Among her goals for the next two years is to qualify for the 2017 National Senior Olympics, perhaps win a medal, and to get her score under 100. “The last five or six years, I’ve shot pretty much the same, and I’m tired of that,” Aldrich said. One of her proudest moments came when she qualified for the 2015 National Games in St. Paul, Minnesota. Again, Aldrich said she felt as

though her skill level was subpar, and that she had no business competing at that level. She surprised herself by playing 18 holes of golf, four days in a row, with her score improving each day. “It turned out to be one of the most important experiences of my life — my golfing life anyway,” she said. “I found out that I can play four straight days of 18 holes of golf; I had never done that before in my life.” Speaking of personal victories, in August 2008, Aldrich suffered a heart attack requiring a double bypass surgery. Following a standard period of physical therapy, and with a limited swing, she began to practice golf again. She started with putting and chipping, achieving a full swing a month or two before competing in the 2009 local Senior Olympic Games. “I guess that was another major victory,” she laughed. When not playing golf, Aldrich is an active member of the League of Women Voters. She also volunteers eight hours a week during tax season with the Community Action Agency, preparing taxes free of charge to low income and elderly citizens. Aldrich believes that exercise is the key to health for seniors. She said Senior Olympics is a great way to add some activity to life and she encourages many of her fellow golfers to participate. Beyond practicing throughout the year, Aldrich likes to use the Las Cruces Regional Aquatic Center, but says that doing chores or simply getting up and moving every 60 to 90 minutes is better than nothing. “Butt time is lost time,” she said. “Golf is such a challenge that I can’t resist. I get on the course, and what I’m thinking about is golf. It really doesn’t matter what else is going on in my life, the next shot is the most important thing in the world at the moment.”

LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

CUSTOM DAY TRIPS Southern New Mexico and neighboring El Paso, Texas are rich with history, culture and tucked-away places at which you’d not look twice if you didn’t know better. Here are four customized trips that only require you to pack some supplies and hit the road.

RACE TO SUNLAND PARK (TUESDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY NOVEMBER THROUGH APRIL) • 9:30 a.m.: Leave Las Cruces via Interstate 10 toward El Paso. • 9:45-10:15 a.m.: Get off at the Mesquite exit (Exit 10) and take an immediate right to Landmark Mercantile, 12000 Stern Drive, to see exotic animals and browse for Western wear and ice cream. • 10:25 a.m.-noon: Continue on I-10 to Exit #2 and turn left over the underpass, and left again a quarter mile to the Whoopee Bowl Antique Mall, 9010 N. Desert Blvd. • 12:15-12:45 p.m.: Continue on I-10 to the Sunland Park exit, and follow Sunland Park Blvd to the racetrack, 1200 Futurity Drive. • 1:00-1:30 p.m. Have lunch at either Ventanas or Riley’s restaurant inside the casino and racetrack. • 1:30-5:30 p.m.: Watch live horse racing and bid on horses for a chance to win big. This activity can be fun for the whole family. • 5:30-6:30 p.m.: Drive back to Las Cruces via I-10.

GET YOUR DOG ON AT A CHIHUAHUAS GAME • 6 p.m.: Leave Las Cruces and head south to El Paso on Interstate 10. Take the first Downtown exit, Santa Fe Street, exit 19. • 6:44 p.m.: Quickly find a parking spot. It’s worth it just to pay the man, park and start walking to Southwest University Park, home of the El Paso Chihuahuas, a AAA minor league affiliate of the San Diego Padres. Sure, it’s $10, but every minute you’re driving around for parking is one minute less you’re in the ballpark having fun. • 7:01: You’re in your seat, four minutes before the first pitch. Most games start at 7:05 p.m.,

but check listings or the team website (www.elpasochihuahuas.com) to be sure. • 7:11 p.m.: Before you head to the food lines or souvenir stands and surround yourself with beverages and goodies, take some time to soak in the baseball and the ballpark. This is one of the nicest minor league baseball stadiums in America. Real dirt, real grass, real wood, real leather, real baseball. • 7:19 p.m.: OK, enough pastoral pleasure. Go get yourself a dog and a beer. There’s a wide variety of food offerings, including tasty nachos from a dog bowl, pizza, barbecue, Frito pie, Mexican food, burgers and a hummus sampler. Yes, a hummus sampler. For beverages, the park even has two full-service bars. Sure, all the food and drink is overpriced, but dig in and enjoy, remembering that when food is eaten at the ballpark, all calories are reduced by 50 percent. • 8:19 p.m.: Time to check out some of the souvenirs adorned with fierce-looking Chico the Chihuahua. • 8:49 p.m.: Right before or right after the seventh inning stretch, take the opportunity to walk all the way around the park. There are many different seating areas, and many viewpoints from which to take in the game. There are also some great commemorations of the history of baseball in El Paso. • 10:02 p.m.: If the game doesn’t go into extra innings, it may just be over now. If you catch a break with traffic flow, you can still be home in bed in Las Cruces by 11 p.m. Or if it’s a Friday or Saturday night, you may want to stick around and sample some of the Downtown El Paso nightlife.

SPIRITUAL SOJOURN SOUTH • 8 a.m.: Hit Milagro Coffee y Espresso (1733 E. University Ave.) in Las Cruces for coffee and a bagel to go. Isn’t a little milagro the perfect way to start a journey of the spirit? • 8:15 a.m.: From Milagro, it’s a quick entry onto Interstate 25 south to El Paso. Follow it as it turns into Interstate 10 and keep going south and east until you reach the Zaragosa Road

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

exit. Should take between 75 and 90 minutes. • 9:30 a.m.: Take Zaragosa south to the Alameda Avenue intersection. At 131 S. Zaragosa is the Ysleta Mission, the first stop on the El Paso Mission Trail. It was the first mission established in the state, with roots going back to 1660. The current church building, recently refurbished, dates to 1851. For more info, check out www.visitelpasomissiontrail.com. • 10 a.m.: Take Zaragoza south to Socorro Road (FM258), and follow it about 2-3 miles until you reach Socorro, Texas and watch for the signs and look for the mission tower. A massive restoration of the Socorro Mission, founded in 1680, took 10 years and was finished in 2005, bringing it back to its 1843 appearance. A small sign in the mission reads: “Please respect our beautiful church. All conversation should be in the form of prayer.” The peace and sanctity of these sacred structures makes prayer an easy mode of conversation. The Socorro Mission also has a nice little gift shop. • 10:40 a.m.: Get back to Socorro Road and head south about six miles to San Elizario. • 10:50 a.m.: Once into San Elizario, take South San Elizario Road and again watch for signs and the mission tower. It’s actually called a presidio chapel because it was part of a military post built in 1684. The current chapel was built in 1882 and modified after a 1935 fire. The hauntingly beautiful chapel maintains its military connection with commemorations inside and outside the building. The back wall of the sanctuary features a listing of church members who served in World War II, hand painted in 1944. • 11:15 a.m.: After touring the chapel, spend some time in downtown San Elizario. There’s a nice little history museum across the street from the church, and around the corner is the jail Billy the Kid once broke into. Not out of. Into. Seems you can’t avoid Billy the Kid around here. • 11:45 a.m.: Retrace your tire tracks to Zaragosa and Interstate 10, heading west until you get to Exit 22A, Gateway Boulevard W. Drive. Go to East Missouri Avenue and turn right. At 3622 E. Missouri, you’ve found L&J Café, the Old Place by the Graveyard. Its roots trace back to 1927. Their unique salsa is addictive, and just one bright spot on a menu with great selections and amazingly great prices. • 1 p.m.: Head back to Las Cruces. • 2 p.m.: Stop in at Garduño’s in Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces (705 S. Telshor Blvd.) off of the Lohman exit from Interstate 25. Have a seat at the bar and order a small glass of Milagro tequila. Isn’t a little milagro the perfect way to end a journey of the spirit?

A DIP IN TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES (PACK A PICNIC LUNCH, SWIM SUITS AND SUNSCREEN) • 8:30 a.m.: Leave Las Cruces on Interstate 25 traveling north for almost 4 miles, take Exit 9 for NM 320 toward Doña Ana, turn left onto NM 320 W/Thorpe Road. • 9 a.m.: Breakfast at Jake’s Café, 641 Thorpe Road, Doña Ana, 523-5770. For full-on deliciousness, try Jake’s Breakfast Special. Also, the French toast is amazing and the bread is made on site. • 10 a.m. head north on I-25 for about an hour. Take Exit 79 to Date Street, turn North on NM181 and Warm Springs Boulevard to follow the signs to Elephant Butte Lake State Park. • 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Hang out on the beach, swim, boat and eat your picnic lunch. There are a number of boat and jet ski rental places around, but if you want to keep it simple, Zia Kayak Outfitters are on the way and can be found at ziakayaks.com. • 2-3:30 p.m.: Drive into Truth or Consequences making a stop at the Spaceport America Visitor Center to learn about New Mexico’s investment into the commercial exploration of space, housed in a historic adobe building at 301 S. Foch St. The T or C visitor’s center is conveniently located in the same building. Then check out some of the arts shops and galleries along the two main streets of the town, North Broadway Street and Main Avenue. • 3:30-5 p.m.: Drop by Riverbend Hot Springs at 100 Austin St. (or any of the other hot springs facilities) where, for around $10 an hour, you can relax for a soak in the famous mineral waters of the area. At River Bend, the Rio Grande flows by where guests can dip into the river if they get too hot in the pools. • 5-6:30 p.m.: Dine at Latitude 33, 304 S. Pershing St., where the food is called Asian fusion. Try a glass of house-made sparkling strawberry-ginger lemonade with the meal, from kitchen sink fried rice to crispy pork wings. And it’s time to come back to the city, hit Interstate-25 and drive south until you get to Las Cruces. • 8 p.m.: Arrive in Las Cruces. If you’re not quite ready to hit the sack, stop by Dublin’s Street Pub, 1745 E University Ave., where the “beer is colder than your ex-girlfriend’s heart,” and close the day with an indulgent side of Irish Nachos – French fries topped with spicy queso dip, green chile and bacon.

LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

KIDS & FAMILY

City Museums HOST PROGRAMS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

KIDS & FAMILY

❚ BY ZAK HANSEN

Each of the city’s four museums — Branigan Cultural Center, Las Cruces Museum of Art, Las Cruces Museum of Nature and Science and the Las Cruces Railroad Museum — offers workshops, presentations and programming for all ages. Kimberly Hanson, education curator at the Museum of Nature and Science, said the museums offer pre-K programs every Thursday, family programming and special events on Saturdays, adult lectures, and spring and summer camps and workshops. At the north end of Downtown’s museum corridor, the Branigan Cultural Center, 501 N. Main St., housed in the building that once held Las Cruces’ first library, hosts changing cultural exhibits alongside its permanent local history exhibit dedicated to “engaging our visitors in the rich heritage of the Southwest and the world at large through artistic, cultural and historical exhibitions and programs,” Hanson said. To this end, the center offers a monthly History Notes lecture series and Cultural Connections Book Club for adults; Spanishlanguage program Vamos a Explorar!, which explores art, history and culture for visitors ages 5 to 12; and summer workshops for young adults in jewelry, clay, retablos, wood burning and more.

Across the patio from the BCC at 491 N. Main St., the Las Cruces Museum of Art “strives to engage and inspire its diverse audience through contemporary art exhibitions, public programming and educational activities,” according to its website. “The Museum of Art brings in contemporary art that relates to the communities of the Las Cruces region,” Hanson said, noting several past exhibitions centered on the rich artistic and cultural tapestry of the desert Southwest and borderland region. Programs at the Museum of Art include the weekly SNAP! — Science, Nature, Art Program — that “fuses science and art using hands-on science investigation and art creation” and studio art programs for youth and adults in ceramics, oil painting, figure drawing, printmaking, collage and landscape and still-life drawing for adults, as well as comic book and story art, world-art adventures, animal drawing, mixed media, puppets and more. The city’s newest museum, the Las Cruces Museum of Nature & Science (MoNaS), 411 N. Main St., inspires lifelong curiosity with three permanent exhibits and inventive monthly and weekly programs. Continued on page 72 ❚

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KIDS & FAMILY

❚ Continued from page 71 Every Thursday, MoNaS hosts pre-K programs focusing on space (Planeteers), literacy (Grandma Mona’s Science Storytime), nature (Nature Kids) and every kid’s favorite, dinosaurs (Dinosaur Train, in partnership with the Las Cruces Railroad Museum). MoNaS’ Family Science Saturday investigates science topics every week in a collaborative environment, with related monthly topics — electricity, forces, geology, ecology are a few — for ages 3 to 93. Following that, on Saturdays, Animal Encounters takes a look at the animals of the Chihuahuan Desert home – fish, arthropods, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and birds, many of which are housed in the museum’s permanent, live-specimen zoological exhibit. For the adult crowd, MoNaS holds its monthly Science Café with Sigma Xi scientific research society, which welcomes local scientists to discuss their current work, and an Endangered Species Update, used to highlight the plight and conservation efforts of the world’s most vulnerable species. At the western edge of Downtown, the Las Cruces Railroad Museum, 351 N. Mesilla St., aims to foster an appreciation and understanding of the impact railroading had in shaping the Las Cruces and the Mesilla Valley we enjoy today.

Housed in a restored Santa Fe Railroad Depot, the museum’s permanent exhibit takes viewers through southern New Mexico’s railroading history. “A fantastic interpretive tool for this goal is the depot itself,” Hanson said. “It is an historic building from the 1910 decade and has been set up to recreate the experience of traveling on the railroad.” The museum hosts two large events each year, Old-Fashioned Christmas in December and Railroad Days in May. It also collaborates on pre-K programs with MoNaS, teaches Operation Lifesaver, and hosts a monthly brown bag lunch lecture. It hosts ongoing museum tours and an adult coloring club — a hobby also popular in 1910s America, newly popularized. Hanson said the museum system is consistently striving to provide programs that are “relevant, educational, interesting and inspiring for the people of Las Cruces and the surrounding area.” “Working with the people of Las Cruces is a privilege for me,” she said. “The curiosity and excitement I see in our visitors is constantly inspiring. While the museums contribute to making life good in Las Cruces, the reverse is also true — the people who visit the museums make life good for all of us who work and volunteer there.” Visit www.las-cruces.org/museums for info.

YOUTH SPORTS LEAGUES The City of Las Cruces Parks & Recreation Department offers a slate of youth sports leagues throughout the year at Meerscheidt Recreation Center, 1600 E. Hadley Ave. • Basketball: Pre-K - 8th grade, spring and fall • Indoor Volleyball: 3rd-7th grades, summer • T-Ball, Baseball, Softball: Pre-K- 3rd grade; summer • Cheerleading: Pre-K - 4th grade, summer-fall • Indoor Soccer: Pre-K - 2nd grade; winter • Dream League Soccer: Ages 4-17; February-March • Dream League Baseball: Ages 4-17; summer

All children need to have an activity ID card in order to participate, which can be obtained for free at the front desk at Meerscheidt Recreation Center. Parents should bring a child’s birth certificate, grade verification (report card or a letter from a teacher) and the child so his/her photograph can be taken. Youth league enrollment is $40 and includes a team jersey. For more information about youth or adult sports leagues, or any of the Parks & Recreation athletic programs, visit www.las-cruces.org/departments/ parks-and-recreation/recreation or call 575-541-2563.

PARENT ORGANIZATIONS Grandparents Raising Grandchildren 975 S. Mesquite St. 575-528-3000

K.A.R.D.A. (Kick Ass Rocking Dad Alliance) www.facebook.com/ pages/Karda-KickAss-Rocking-DadAlliance/139117936247639

La Clinica de Familia Healthy Start Program 570 Griggs Ave. 575-523-2042 www.lcdfnm.org

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

Las Cruces Moms facebook.com/MomsLC Young Fathers Project of New Mexico www.youngfathers.org

KIDS & FAMILY

Looking Ahead

NEW PARK FEATURES SPLASH PAD

❚ BY TRACY ROY

A new park in the planned housing development Metro Verde on Las Cruces’ East Mesa features a splash pad and a state-of-the-art playground. To get there, travel east on U.S. 70, exit Sonoma Ranch Boulevard and turn left.

Turn right on Peachtree Hills Road. The park will be on the left, directly across from Monte Vista Elementary School. Interested in the homes in the development? Call Renee Frank at 575-4967727 or Cindy Hoffmann at 575-528-9570.

MYRIAD RESOURCES AVAILABLE THROUGH PUBLIC LIBRARY ❚ BY BONNIE SCHRANZ

The earliest library in Las Cruces held only 500 books. Today, there are 66,000 Branigan Library card holders, many of whom are young readers. “Don’t leave home without it” may bring to mind your credit card, but it more aptly applies to your Thomas Branigan Memorial Library (TBML) card. Las Cruces’ full-service library system has a lot to offer, and some of that goes far beyond on-site resources.

“Branigan Library is more than ‘just books,’” Library Administrator Renée Payne Frankel said. “We’re like many public libraries today that are transitioning into community centers.” This is proven by residents who gather at the library informally or use a library conference room for an organizational meetings or presentations offered by the library or outside non-profit groups. Continued on page 74 ❚

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❚ Continued from page 73 Some go to the library to take advantage of services, including a notary public, computers with free Internet and Wi-Fi access, genealogy resources, help with a resume, job search or grant application, referrals to other community resources, voting, movies, or simply finding a safe haven. “Whether it’s information, research, informational education, recreational reading, life-skills assistance, entertainment, a meeting place, or proctoring an exam, we’re proud to do our very best to meet our community’s library needs,” Frankel said. TBML has three locations: The main branch downtown at 200 E. Picacho Ave., and two branches at Munson Senior Center, 975 S. Mesquite St., and Sage Café, 6121 Reynolds Drive. “Books to You” volunteers deliver reading materials to homebound library patrons. “We’re increasingly emphasizing programming for kids, teens and adults,” Frankel said. “There are weekly story times for the little ones, a Library Lab for 6-10 year olds emphasizing technology, science, arts and games. Teens have game night, anime and cool crafts programs. In 2014, TBML received a national designation as a Family Place Library, which aims to create a network for families to nurture their child’s development through a variety of activities. Adult patrons have recreational and educational workshops and seminars, including basic computer classes, writing classes, book clubs and a huge variety of arts and crafts workshops.” The annual Summer Reading Program, supported by the Friends of Branigan Library, gets rave reviews from readers of all ages. The library provides digital services for e-books, e-magazines, downloadable free music, self-publishing, online tutoring, job search tools and an app to learn a new language. The library hosts “Tech Tent” at 11 a.m. Wednesdays to offer one-on-one assistance with e-readers and tablets to access these digital services. Learn more at http://library.las-cruces.org.

FYI/WHAT CAN YOU DO AT THE LIBRARY? • Check out books: Fiction, nonfiction collections for all ages, large print books, reference books and periodicals • Check out media: Audio books, music CDs, films on DVD for all ages • Take part in special programs: Children’s programs, summer reading programs, arts and crafts workshops, Friends of Branigan Library book talks, author presentations, reading clubs • Use a computer: Free computer access, classes for all ages • Use virtual resources: 3M Cloud Library, Freading and OneClick Digital e-books, Freegal e-Music, Zinio e-Magazines, Brainfuse, Transparent Language, FastPencil self-publishing, Branigan Library blogs • Use community services: Books by mail, homebound delivery, reading requests, research help, public meeting rooms, polling place, notary public, photocopies, study rooms and proctoring, job search assistance

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KIDS & FAMILY

LOCAL YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS WORK TO BUILD STRONG FUTURES ❚ BY BONNIE SCHRANZ

Fun, companionship and learning life skills are in store for children and young adults living in Las Cruces who join local branches of national organizations long recognized for their value to both individual members and their communities.

4-H 4-H, which stands for “Head, Heart, Health, Hands,” is a dynamic non-formal education program providing opportunities for young people ages 5 to 19 to learn skills, gain knowledge, have fun and make contributions. Info: 575-525-6649, http://aces.nmsu.edu/4h/ and NMSU Doña Ana County 4-H on Facebook

BOY SCOUTS

The Boy Scouts of America Yucca Council serves El Paso and counties of Southern New Mexico with a long and proud history that began in 1917. Divided by age groups Cub, Wolf, Webelos and Boy Scouts, boys 7 years old (first grade) through high school students can participate in the traditional scouting endeavors of hiking, climbing, biking, camping, canoeing and crafts, as well as more contemporary pursuits like conservation service and an Antarctic scientific program. Info: 915-772-2292, 800-580-4272, email debra.squillini@scouting.org.

GIRL SCOUTS Girl Scouts of the USA is a values-based,

information educational program with activities in six grade levels. Girl Scouts of the Desert Southwest is the umbrella organization serving troops in southern New Mexico and West Texas, with 10,000 girl members supported by 1,500 adults. Scouting activities include exploring the outdoors, people and cultures, the arts, math, science, technology, contemporary issues and individual wellbeing. Info: 575-526-2532, www.gsdsw.org or find Girl Scouts of the Desert Southwest on Facebook.

FFA The mission of Future Farmers of America is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for leadership, growth and career success through agriculture education. Among 600,000 members nationally, there are strong active chapters of the organization in four local high schools within District VI: Las Cruces, Mayfield, Centennial and Mesilla Valley Christian High Schools. FFA students enjoy career-oriented instruction and experience, learning both inside and beyond the classroom, with activities and competitions in topics including livestock, wildlife, veterinary tech, horticulture and agriculture business for a global economy. Local FFA members train guide dogs for the blind and share information about agriculture with elementary school students. Info: New Mexico FFA on Facebook, @newmexicoffa on Twitter, nmffa.org.

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NEW PRIVATE SCHOOL TO OPEN IN MESILLA ❚ BY BILLY HUNTSMAN

Acton Academy is an Austin, Texas-based private school system with locations mostly in Texas and Central America. Throughout 2016, however, more than a dozen new locations will be opened up throughout the United States, into Canada and Asia. One of these new locations is in Mesilla, neighboring Las Cruces. Opening a southern New Mexico location was the idea of Anna Emerick-Biad and her husband, who were dissatisfied with current education offerings. When Acton opens up, Emerick-Biad’s three school-aged children will attend. Each Acton Academy is a micro-school, characterized by Education Week by the following criteria: • Schools have no more than 150 students, K-12. • Children of mixed ages learn together in the same classroom. • Teachers act more as guide than lecturers. • A heavy emphasis is placed on digital and project-based learning. Small class sizes create opportunities for a more personalized education.

HELPING OUR CHILDREN GROW: Las Cruces’ Day Care and Support Services for Homeless and Near Homeless Children and Their Fa milies

Get Involved as a donor or a volunteer! 575-522-2111 CERTIFIED 999 West Amador Las Cruces, NM 88001 www.jardinlc.org

Acton operates on an 11-month school year, from September to July, at a cost of about $5,900 a year. There are a number of scholarships available, and siblings of Acton students receive discounted tuition. “Student tuition funds the latest technology, skilled teaching staff, exceptional hands-on materials and beautiful facility and grounds,” according to the school’s website. “Our goal is to remain budget-friendly and implement money-saving technology as it is developed to further drive costs down. Acton Academy Las Cruces is proud to announce that the school is 100 percent cloud-based, which provides excellent customer service, including parent apps with syncing school calendar, online scheduling, online student progress tracking and school safety measures by NEST.” There is no homework at Acton Academy, according to its website. Instead, students’ only ongoing out-of-school responsibility is to read. An independent private school, Acton Academy does not need accreditation, licensure or approval from the New Mexico Public Education Department. Instead, Acton Academy is accredited through the International Association of Learner-Driven Schools, a component of the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, which promotes the Whole Child approach to education. Whole Child is guided by the following tenets: • Each student enters school healthy and learns about and practices a healthy lifestyle. • Each student learns in an environment that is physically and emotionally safe for students and adults. • Each student is actively engaged in learning and is connected to the school and broader community. • Each student has access to personalized learning and is supported by qualified, caring adults. • Each student is challenged academically and prepared for success in college or further study and for employment and participation in a global environment. The Mesilla location will immediately offer kindergarten through seventh-grade curriculums. The school plans to offer additional grades in the coming years, with the hope of soon providing K-12 education.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

❚ BY MIKE COOK

Jardin de los Niños, the nonprofit that serves homeless and near-homeless children ages 6 weeks to 10 years in Las Cruces, was named the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce’s nonprofit of the year for 2014 and Albuquerque Business First’s 2015 New Mexico nonprofit of the year. That’s quite a turnaround for an organization deep in the red only a couple of years ago. When the books closed at the end of the 2015 fiscal year last June 30, Jardin was actually showing a profit, Executive Director Audrey Hartley said. And she expects 2016 to end in the black as well. Jardin began a capital campaign in August 2015 with a goal of $300,000, Hartley said. The campaign ends in June 2016, and Jardin has raised about half the money it needs, she said. “We are hopeful that the community will continue to support us as we work toward our goal,” Hartley said. “Our children continue to grow and thrive, and are doing quite well. We hope to continue along this road for a very long time.” Jardin serves 45 to 50 clients in an average month — up to 65 during the summer — along with their parents and siblings. It provides early childhood education, therapeutic intervention and comprehensive services. Many parents are single mothers, and some have suffered domestic violence, Hartley said. Families come from Las Cruces and surrounding communities, other states and Mexico. Jardin staff try never to turn a family away. Jardin has 18 staff members — 15 full-time, including 12 teachers with an average of eight to 10 years of experience. Its annual budget is under $645,000, which comes from the City of Las Cruces, State of New Mexico, United Way, grants and private donations (the largest source of funding). Jardin is located in the Mesilla Valley Community of Hope, 999 W. Amador Ave., along with other programs serving the poor and homeless. Jardin was founded in 1995 by Sister Anna Waldschmidt and Sister Beth

Daddio. In addition to the services provided to their children, families receive food, clothing and housing, and parents get training in things like cooking, money management and parenting. Parents are required to spend two hours a week in classes and four hours a week doing community service at Jardin. “In the beginning, we give them all the essentials,” Hartley said. “Then, we work with them to create a successful life for them and their families.” Some families stay a few days or a few weeks at Jardin; some stay several months and some several years. “People don’t leave Jardin until they are stable,” Hartley said. For information, call 575-522-2111 or email jardindelosninos.lc@gmail.com. Jardin’s mailing address is 1300-G El Paseo PMB No. 272, Las Cruces, N.M. 88015. Visit online at www.jardinlc.org.

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NONPROFIT SERVES HOMELESS, NEAR-HOMELESS CHILDREN AND THEIR FAMILIES

KIDS & FAMILY

PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN LITERACY/READING Barnes & Noble Booksellers Storytime 700 S. Telshor Blvd. 575-522-4499 Children’s Reading Foundation of Doña Ana County 3880 Foothills Road, Suite A readingfoundation.org/ dona_ana COAS Books’ Storytime 317 Main St. or 1101 S. Solano Drive 575-524-8471 coasbooks.com Doña Ana County Head Start 2540 El Paseo Road, Suite B 575-647-8733 ci.education.nmsu.edu/ programs/concentrations/ eced/mcvi/dona

575-649-2992 disnm.org Home Education Livelihood Program (HELP) 2801 Missouri Ave., Suite 25 575-526-2402 helpnm.com Learning Foundations, Gym Magic Inc. 2341 Entrada del Sol 575-523-1616 gymmagic.com/learningfoundations-programoverview Literacy Volunteers of Doña Ana County 3400 S. Espina St. 575-527-7544 readwritenow.org Lions Crane Reading Program 575-640-5020 nmlcrf.com

Dyslexia Institute of Southern New Mexico Inc. 125 Wyatt Drive

Reading & Literacy Center - NMSU Curriculum & Instruction 575-646-7183 Thomas Branigan Memorial Library 200 E. Picacho Ave. 575-528-4000 library.las-cruces.org AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS 4-H Youth Development Doña Ana County Extension Office 575-525-6649 aces.nmsu.edu/4h Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern New Mexico 221 W. Griggs 575-523-9530 bbbsmountainregion.org Boys & Girls Club of Las Cruces 330 W. Las Cruces Ave. 575-526-1519 bgclascruces.org Boy Scouts of America Yucca Council 7601 Lockheed Drive, El Paso, Texas 915-772-2284 yuccabsa.org scoutnm.com Cruces Gymnastics Academy 601 Española St. 575-527-9113 Enrich The Kids Inc. 575-571-7734 enrichthekids.org

OF LAS CRUCES

When school’s out, Clubs are in. Providing a safe place with caring adults and outstanding programs after school and during the summer for youth ages 6 to 18 since 1963. Join the Club Volunteer Donate New members Be somebody Open the door always welcome. to somebody. for more youth.

Girl Scouts of the Desert Southwest 225 E. Idaho Ave., Suite 9 575-526-2532 gsdsw.org Gym Magic 2341 Entrada del Sol 575-523-1616 gymmagic.com Junior Amigo Ambassadors 277 E. Amador Ave #305 575-524-8900 lascruceshispanicchamber. com/junior-amigos/

(575) 526-1519 www.bgclascruces.org

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Junior Leadership Las Cruces 505 S. Main St., Suite 134 575-524-1968 lascruces.org/junior_ leadership.php New Mexico FFA 575-646-3036 nmffa.org ARTS A Children’s Theater of the Mesilla Valley 575-571-1413 achildrenstheatre.wix.com Academy of Music and Dance 1809 El Paseo Road 575-525-2909 lcmusicanddance.com Career Art Path Program 211 N. Main St. 575-523-6403 daarts.org/career-art-path American Southwest Children’s Theatre Co. 575-646-4517 llury@nmsu.edu nmsutheatre.com/asctc.php Las Cruces School of Dance and Music 1390 N. Main St. 575-525-5670 newmexicodanceandmusic.com Mesilla Valley Dance 920 W. Alameda Blvd., Ste 2 575-636-3537 mesillavalleydance.webs.com Michele’s Dance Academy 1195 E. Madrid Ave. 575-527-1893 michelesdanceacademy.biz Missoula Children’s Theatre 211 N. Main St. 575-523-6403 daarts.org/missoulachildrens-theatre Starlight Children’s Theatre Co. of Las Cruces 575-521-7400 starlightchildrenstheatre.org Verdi Academy of Dance 1685 S. Don Roser Drive 575-522-3147 verdiacademyofdance.com

KIDS & FAMILY

Sojourn

GET LOST AT CITY OF ROCKS

❚ BY TRACY ROY

City of Rocks, a state park situated on one square mile about halfway between Silver City and Deming, could make you wonder if you’ve left New Mexico. Sitting at 5,259 feet above sea level, the park, established in 1952, is a geologic formation made up of large, sculptured rock pinnacles. Some rise as high as 40 feet, and a web of paths create space in which to hike around — and with any luck — get lost for a while. The rocks were formed about 35 million years ago by a large volcanic eruption. Years of erosion slowly etched the formations we see there today. A road trip to City of Rocks could be a daylong adventure, or a weekend tent-camping excursion for the entire family — even the smallest ones. Campsites nestled between the rocks serve as a home base for a day or two of hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, stargazing and picnicking. City of Rocks is also a great location for birders, boasting more than 30 species of birds that make the rocks their home, as well as myriad other wildlife. The unique visitor center, which is open 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. every day, includes displays, information and hot showers, as well as a desert botanical garden. From Las Cruces, City of Rocks is about an hour and a half drive.

FYI/CITY OF ROCKS Address: 327 Highway 61, Faywood, New Mexico Phone: 575-536-2800 Website: www.emnrd.state.nm.us/ SPD/cityofrocksstatepark.html Directions: From Las Cruces, take Interstate 10 west, take exit 82A and follow U.S. 180 to the park. Details: Open year round; pets allowed. Cost: Day-use fee is $5. Camping can range from $8 to $18 depending on the hookups. SURROUNDING POINTS OF INTEREST • Fort Bayard (10 miles east of Silver City): US Infantry post from 1863 and home of the Buffalo Soldiers • Gila National Forest (Silver City) • Kneeling Nun (N.M. 152, east of Silver City): Monolith resembling a nun kneeling in prayer • Faywood Hot Springs (3.5 miles from City of Rocks): Natural geothermal resort with outdoor mineral water soaking pools with camping, RV or private cabin options.

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EDUCATION

DAN BURRELL

DR. GEORGE MYCHASKIW

STATE OF THE ART EDUCATION

BURRELL COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE TO OPEN DOORS TO FIRST CLASS

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EDUCATION

❚ BY MIKE COOK

Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine (BCOM) will begin classes Aug. 15 at the school’s new facility, 3655 Research Road, at New Mexico State University. BCOM at NMSU “is one of the newest medical colleges in the United States and the only one with a mission focused on healthcare in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico,” according to the college’s website, http://bcomnm.org. Gov. Susana Martinez and Burrell Executive Chairman Dan Burrell were on hand April 2015 for the foundation-pouring event that began BCOM construction. Martinez said the school will help address

a healthcare shortage in the state and called the school “a milestone for Doña Ana County. It’s important to have a facility like this,” the governor said. “As our health care system continues to change, our demand for health care professionals will only continue to grow.” In August 2015, BCOM staff interviewed more than 2,500 potential medical students and accepted 162 students for its first class. “We’re very selective about who we look at,” BCOM Founding Dean Dr. George Mychaskiw said. The school wants to have a student body Continued on page 82 ❚

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❚ Continued from page 81 that “reflects the diversity of our community,” he said, and noted that BCOM is the only medical school in the United States with a bilingual mission statement. The $32 million, 80,000-square foot, stateof-the-art BCOM facility will feature a fully equipped library, an anatomy lab and seven simulation rooms that include high-tech mannequins. BCOM Director of Simulation Samuel Gutierrez said the mannequins can breathe, sweat, drool and even bleed. They can also speak English and other languages. The school will have training clinics and include local actors to portray patients with a wide range of symptoms and conditions — and sometimes speaking languages other than English — to help students learn how to become good doctors and to be culturally sensitive, Mychaskiw said.

QUICK FACTS:

Total enrollment, Fall 2015:

Student profile

NEW MEXICO STATE UNIVERSITY 15,490 (Las Cruces campus only) Average class size: 17

Average age: 23 Gender: 53 percent female; 47 percent male Ethnicity: 51.86 percent Hispanic; 32.03 percent White; 3.5 percent unknown; 3.01 percent Black or African American; 2.39 percent American or Alaskan Native; 0.27 percent Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander; 1.2 percent Asian

Budget

Operational budget 2015-2016: $652 million

Tuition and fees

DOÑA ANA COMMUNITY COLLEGE 8,340 Average class size: 18.5

Average age: 24.5 years Gender: 56 percent female; 40 percent male; 4 percent no response Ethnicity: 75 percent Hispanic; 16 percent White; 4 percent unknown; 2 percent Black or African American; 1 percent American or Alaskan Native

Budget

Operational budget 2015-2016: $65.1 million

Tuition and fees

Full-time resident: $253.90 per credit Full-time nonresidents: $253.90 per credit (up to seven credit hours; price increases depending on distance).

Full-time Doña Ana County resident: $68 per credit hour Full-time New Mexico resident: $82 per credit hour Full-time nonresidents: $216 per credit hour

Campuses and Learning Centers

NMSU – Grants NMSU – Carlsbad NMSU – Alamogordo NMSU – Albuquerque

“BCOM has developed a clinical education network with hospitals, medical centers, federally qualified health centers as well as hundreds of physicians in Las Cruces, El Paso, Albuquerque, Santa Fe and other parts of New Mexico, Texas and Chihuahua,” according to its website. The school will provide residency programs in family and internal medicine, psychiatry, anesthesiology, urology, surgery, emergency medicine, OB/GYN, osteopathic manipulative medicine and sports medicine, with other disciplines in development. BCOM will generate an estimated $80 million a year for Las Cruces and $120 million for the region, and will create 350 new jobs, Mychaskiw said. Each BCOM graduate who practices medicine in New Mexico will generate about $1.2 million and nine new jobs, he said.

East Mesa Campus Central Campus Hatch Learning Center Chaparral Learning Center Gadsden Learning Center Sunland Park Learning Center Workforce Center

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EDUCATION

of careers to choose from!

For more information, call: (575) 528-7500

DEGREE AND CERTIFICATE ––––– PROGRAMS ––––– 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Aerospace Technology Associate of Arts Associate of Science Automation and Manufacturing Automotive Technology Building Construction Technology 7. Business Management 8. %XVLQHVV 2IðFH 7HFKQRORJ\ 9. Computer and Information Technology 10. Creative Media Technology 11. Criminal Justice 12. Culinary Arts 13. Dental Assistant 14. Dental Hygiene 15. Diagnostic Medical Sonography 16. Drafting and Design Technologies 17. Early Childhood Education 18. Education 19. Electrical Programs 20. Electronics Technology

21. Emergency Medical Services 22. Environmental and Energy Technologies 23. Fire Investigations 24. Fire Science Technology 25. General Engineering 26. Health Care Assistant 27. Health Information Technology 28. Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration 29. Hospitality and Tourism 30. Hospitality Services Management 31. Law Enforcement 32. Library Science 33. Nursing 34. Paralegal Studies 35. Pre-Architecture 36. Pre-Business 37. Public Health 38. Radiologic Technology 39. Respiratory Therapy 40. Water Technology 41. Welding Technology

http://dacc.nmsu.edu LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

EDUCATION

PRIVATE AND CHARTER SCHOOLS Alma d’arte Charter High School

402 W. Court Ave. 575-541-0145 www.almadarte.org Principal: Mark Hartshorne Opening in 2004, Alma d’arte Charter High School is an artsbased secondary school that serves a diversity of learners through combining rigorous academics with an integrated art program that includes visual, performing, literary, culinary arts.

Cornerstone Christian Academy

5301 Cortez Drive 575-532-0902 www.cornerstn.org Principal: Pastor Doug Cowan Cornerstone Christian Academy is a private Christian school established to meet the educational needs of children in a Christ-centered environment. The school employs Christian teachers who relay the Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) program, an individually prescribed curriculum based on biblical philosophy.

Desert Springs Christian Academy

2010 E. Wisconsin Ave. 575-571-7709 desertspringschristianacademy.org Headmaster: Karen Caroe Desert Springs Christian Academy employs a classical Christian educational model driven by “sola scriptura”— scripture alone. The Bible dictates the standard of all else to be judged in mathematics, science, history and language. First through 10th grades are accepted.

Las Cruces Catholic School

1331 N. Miranda St. 575-526-2517 www.lascrucescatholicschool.com Principal: Connie Limon Although a Catholic school by design, Las Cruces Catholic School accepts students from preschool through 12th grade from all other religions as well as those who

are non-religious. Its curriculum is a blend of core studies and innovative programs, which encourage creativity in learning by offering classes in music, art, physical education, home economics, Spanish language and culture, computer technology and journalism.

J. Paul Taylor Academy

3900 Del Rey Blvd. 575-652-4006 www.jpaultayloracademy.org Principal: Eric B. Ahner J. Paul Taylor Academy operates under the concept that all children are capable of academic excellence and provides the environment and opportunity for its students to meet those expectations. J. Paul Taylor’s teachers are carefully selected to facilitate the enhanced learning, and must actively implement the project-based learning strategies in the classroom. They must be able to plan in teams and share instructional responsibilities enabling all children to learn and explore at levels where they can excel. Using two languages in a small, nurturing, child-focused environment, the J. Paul Taylor Academy can offset the pervasive ever-narrowing and test-focused educational experience.

La Academia Dolores Huerta

1480 N. Main St. 575-526-2984 www.academianm.org Principal: Octavio Casillas As a dual-language charter middle school, the instructional language is alternated each week. In addition to the core classes — language arts, math, science and social studies — electives are offered such as physical education, ballet folklorico, mariachi and art. The mission is to create an environment that enables students to excel through growth in self-motivation, competency, experience, independence, knowledge and self-worth.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

Las Cruces Academy

1755 Avenida de Mercado 575-521-9384 www.lascrucesacademy.org Head of School: Lou Ellen Kay Las Cruces Academy was incorporated in 2007 as a nonprofit institution for kindergarten through 6th-grade students. The focus of the academy is to have gifted and academically advanced children succeed, targeting languages, math and science. Students learn English, Spanish and Chinese every day, and teachers provide a supportive social environment for students to grow. The academy’s mission is to guide students toward realization of their full intellectual potential.

Las Montañas Charter High School

201 E. Lohman Ave. 575-636-2100 www.lasmontanashigh.com Academic Dean: Richard Robinson Las Montañas High School is a full-service charter high school for ninth through 12th grade. It is designed to enhance student performance through professional development, supplemental instruction, supplemental counseling, academic support, educational opportunities, school programs and technical support.

Mesilla Valley Christian Schools

3850 Stern Drive 575-525-8515 www.mvcsonline.com Superintendent: John Foreman Mesilla Valley Christian Schools was founded in 1974 as an extension ministry of College Heights Kindergarten until its incorporation in 1985. The development of a Christian worldview in all aspects of a student’s education is a core value of MVCS, which is why each student is required to take a daily Bible class taught by experienced Bible teachers. The school’s mission is to inspire great character, faith in God and excellence in academics.

2752 N. Roadrunner Parkway 575-532-5489 www.mlschool.net Principal: Mary Martin Mission Lutheran School offers classes for children ages 3 through fifth grade. It offers a quality education to children in a Christian setting. A low student-to-teacher ratio and a Christian staff help make the school an alternative to public schools at a young age to immerse children in a faith-based setting as the guiding principles.

New America School

207 S. Main St. 575-527-9085 www.newamericaschoolnm.org Principal: Margarita Porter The mission of New America School is to empower new immigrants, English language learners and academically underserved students with the educational tools and support they need to maximize their potential, succeed and live the American dream. It is a system of public charter high schools that serve students age 14 and older with day and evening classes.

QUICK FACTS:

LAS CRUCES PUBLIC SCHOOLS Superintendent Steven Sanchez, interim Students 24,613 (Dec. 2015) Student Ethnicity Hispanic: 75 percent Caucasian: 19.5 percent African American: 2.6 percent Asian: 1 percent Native American: 0.9 percent Pacific Islander/Other: 0.4 percent Graduation Rate (2014/2015) 76.6 percent Property 45 school and administrative sites 900-plus acres

1,463 square miles Schools 25 elementary schools 8 middle schools 4 general high schools 1 alternative high school 2 early college high schools 1 middle/high school long-term suspension program

EDUCATION

Mission Lutheran School

LCPS Staff 3,382 (includes teachers, assistants, nutrition services, special education staff, and nurses and counselors) Transportation Buses: 124 Registered bus riders: 9,305

Lifelong Learning and Literacy Resources Free services offered at the library: Audiobooks eMusic Computer Lab Magazines Wi-Fi

Movies eMagazines Job & Career Help Homework Help Foreign Language g Learningg

Book Clubs eBooks Kids, Teens, & Adult Programs Newspapers And more!

Hours: Monday-Thursday 9am-8pm Friday & Saturday 10am-6pm Sundays June-August Closed Sept-May 1pm-5pm

200 E Picacho Ave | Las Cruces, NM | 575-528-4000 | library.las-cruces.org

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EDUCATION

Up and Comer

TEACHER TAKES AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO EDUCATION ❚ BY BONNIE SCHRANZ

Some people are born teachers, and their students are forever fortunate to have had their guidance and influence. Ana Bruner, who teaches first grade at Highland Elementary School, is recognized as one of those exceptional teachers. She was named Early Career Teacher of the Year and given the 2016 Crystal Apple Award by the Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce at its annual award gala. A Las Cruces native, Bruner is a graduate of New Mexico State University, where she earned a master’s degree in early childhood education in May 2016. “I believe education is the most powerful tool any individual can possess,” Bruner said, now in her fourth year of teaching. Bruner’s students perform at all levels, gifted through special needs, but all set personal goals for achievement each day. So does their teacher. “I want them to experience education in a positive way,” she said. “If kids see their teacher setting goals and enjoying learning, they feel that same excitement when they’re learning. I had numerous teachers who impacted me and guided my choice to becoming a teacher through their own enthusiasm. In my class, we have a lot of celebrations. We sing and dance around when we meet our goals.” Highland’s Assistant Principal Karin Hite nominated Bruner for the award. “She has students’ interest from the moment they walk in the door...and all the while, they are learning content standard after content standard,” Hite said. She said Bruner “is on the cutting edge

using technology and new instructional methods...implementing inquiry-based instruction in her classroom.” “Technology is our world; kids know technology, better than many adults,” Bruner said. “I began using technology with projects, with reading, with assignments, knowing that this is what kids love, it’s what they use every day, so why not bring tools they already have into the classroom to help them learn, instead of worksheets and papers? In their future careers, they’re going to have to know how to use technology.” Bruner makes use of innovative resources provided by Las Cruces Public Schools, but many of the most exciting approaches are her own. For example, within the firstgrade writing unit, students publish and peer-edit. They use computers; they learn Microsoft Word. Students can use Microsoft PowerPoint and record their own voices to add audio to their project. Using another iPad app, first graders take photos as part of a project on recycling. Bruner has a website for parents to see their children’s work. This is probably not the idea of education most adults recall, but Bruner’s students are learning skills from a gifted teacher for their bright future.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

EDUCATION

DACC CULINARY ARTS PROGRAM GRADUATED FIRST STUDENTS IN 2015 ❚ BY ANN PALORMO

After six years of planning and designing both the facilities and the curriculum, the culinary arts program at Doña Ana Community College accepted its first students in the fall of 2013. Those students graduated in 2015, earning associate of applied sciences degrees. The culinary arts program is a classical training program designed to develop in the students the skills necessary for success in food-service venues around the world. Students work in state-of-the-art culinary laboratories, learning from instructors who themselves have chef credentials. “This is intended to be a chef-training program,” Kim Seifert, professor and department chair of the DACC Business and Marketing Department, said. Seifert moved to the education side after 30 years in the food service industry. “I tell the students that our program can prepare them to work as chefs, pastry chefs, cooks and bakers for positions in restaurants, resorts, cruise lines, hotels, institutions and any venue where quality food is prepared,” he said. While not yet at full capacity, this is a limited-entry program. All entering students take a semester of five introductory classes that cover kitchen and hospitality basics, sanitation and math and computer literacy

as they relate to the kitchen and the food service industry. At the end of the semester they apply for admission into the four-semester program. The application process includes both a written essay and an oral interview. “Many of our students come right from area high schools and may have been involved in the culinary programs at those schools, but some are individuals interested in pursuing a career change,” he said. “We want to get everyone on the same level before they move into the cooking and baking fundamentals and begin working in teams.” They will work in these teams for four semesters, learning that success in this field requires strong people skills as well as good cooking and baking techniques. An advisory council consisting of community business owners and high school instructors has been very beneficial to the culinary arts program. These individuals have expanded awareness of the program throughout the area and helped students learn about local job opportunities. For more information, to apply or take a tour of the facilities, contact Kim Seifert, Doña Ana Community College East Mesa Campus, 2800 Sonoma Ranch Blvd., by phone at 575527-7580 or by email kseifert@nmsu.edu.

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EDUCATION

NEW MEXICO STATE UNIVERSITY BOARD OF REGENTS MIKE CHENEY Mike Cheney is the market president of WestStar Bank in Las Cruces. Born and raised in Hobbs, Cheney received a bachelor’s degree in finance from NMSU in 1985. Cheney has served as chairman of the annual United Way Campaign for San Juan County, on the NMSU College of Business Advisory Council, member of the Board of Directors of the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce, and Chairman of the NMSU Board of Regents. His term expires Dec. 31, 2016.

DEBRA P. HICKS Debra Hicks graduated from NMSU with a bachelor’s in civil engineering. After serving on both the New Mexico Transportation Commission and the New Mexico Tech Board of Regents, she was appointed in early 2015 by Gov. Susana Martinez. In 2013, she was named New Mexico Woman of Influence by Albuquerque Business First. Hicks has been involved with The Boys and Girls Club of America, Habitat for Humanity, Leadership New Mexico, New Mexico Junior College, among others. Her community outreach focuses on supporting children, education and the arts. Her term expires Dec. 31, 2020.

AMANDA LÓPEZ ASKIN Amanda López Askin, a Las Cruces native, is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in educational leadership and administration with an emphasis in social justice at NMSU. Since 2005, she has worked as a school

mental health advocate at the New Mexico Department of Health for the Southwest Region. She is involved with Action Programs for Animals, where she volunteers, fosters pets and serves as a board member. She is serving a two-year term as the student regent that expires Dec. 31, 2016.

KARI MITCHELL Kari Mitchell is CEO and owner of Las Cruces Machine, Mfg. & Engineering and serves on the executive committee of the Bridge of Southern New Mexico. Mitchell is a member of NMSU’s TownGown Commission, which aims to strengthen ties between the university and the community. She is past chair of the Mesilla Valley Economic Development Alliance and was a founding board member of the New Mexico Economic Development Partnership. She holds an MBA from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, and a bachelor’s in marketing/management from Adams State College. Her term expires Dec. 31, 2018.

JEREAN CAMÚÑEZ HUTCHINSON Jerean Camúñez Hutchinson is a Las Cruces native who earned a bachelor’s in business administration at NMSU. She earned a master’s degree in information management from George Washington University. Hutchinson is the owner and manager of La Posta de Mesilla Restaurant in Mesilla since returning to the area in 1996. Hutchinson is a graduate of Leadership New Mexico, Class of 2001. Her term expires on Dec. 31, 2020.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

CREATIVE CAMPUS OUTLINES VISION FOR COLLABORATION AT NMSU

EDUCATION

Looking Ahead

that would exist between the university “We are a group of people who feel community and the city.” similarly about education and the economic Despite current economic setbacks facing opportunities that exist as part of building a the state, reason enough that a resounding creative economy here,” Amy Lanasa, director “yes” hasn’t already been given for initial of New Mexico State University’s Creative planning to go forward, there is still high Media Institute (CMI), said. interest in the proposal at all levels of city and She is describing an ongoing conversation university administration. about developing a Creative Campus program “So much of it is about architecture in a lot at NMSU. of ways, and not just the physical architecture, In a Creative Campus, a number of academic but the architecture of how we communicate,” disciplines come together in a unit, sharing both Lanasa said. “You have to have a physical a physical space and an intellectual philosophy space, but you also have to have those to educate and train students to relationships in place in order to think creatively. CMI would drive "Even though it ís foster collaboration.” the effort, bringing talent and still just an idea, the One important relationship that production capability to content has already moved forward is that most amazing thing provided by other disciplines about the Creative between CMI and its counterpart, like computer science, business, Campus concept is Doña Ana Community College’s medicine and engineering. that it encourages Creative Media Technology A potentially pivotal factor in (CMT) program. all of these making the Creative Campus CMT’s Director Matt Byrnes conversations." a reality is whether the City of couldn’t agree more and – Amy Lanasa Las Cruces will move ahead with describes positive articulation a plan to build a commercial happening between the two schools. soundstage, possibly located on or near the Byrnes is also involved with Film Las Cruces, university. a community group with the goal of attracting A large flexible-use shared space could commercial filmmakers and production invite both commercial filmmakers as well opportunities to our area. as educational innovation to southern New “We’re in a bit of a limbo until we know what Mexico. the city will decide about building a sound “You could suddenly start to attract stage and how it would be managed,” Byrnes industries that aren’t just entertainment-based, said. like people who want to build simulators to “Even though it’s still just an idea, the most train the next generation of drone pilots, amazing thing about the Creative Campus or use video game technology for diabetes concept is that it encourages all of these education,” Lanasa said. “And that’s where you conversations,” Lanasa said. “Even if we don’t start to see the intersection of a lot of different get the actual physical building, we’ve started disciplines ... It would capitalize on the synergy building philosophical bridges.”

❚ BY BONNIE SCHRANZ

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EDUCATION

LAS CRUCES BOARD OF EDUCATION ELECTED EVERY FOUR YEARS ❚ BY MIKE COOK

Las Cruces Public Schools has a fivemember school board, elected by districts to serve four-year terms. Nonpartisan elections are held in February of odd-numbered years. The next school board election will be February 2017. There is no limit on the number of terms a board member can serve. Current board members are: • Maria Flores, board president, represents District 3. She was first elected in 2009. Her current term ends in 2017; • Chuck Davis, vice president, represents District 1 and was first elected to the board in 2001. He is now serving his fourth term on the board, which ends ends in 2017; • Barbara Hall, secretary, represents District 2. She was appointed to the board in 2011 and elected to a four-year term in 2013. Her current term ends in 2017; • Maury Castro, represents District 4, and was elected to the board in 2015. His term

Maury Castro

Chuck Davis

Ed Frank

ends in 2019; • Ed Frank, represents District 5, and was elected to the board in 2015 for a four-year term. • Student school board adviser, Andre Gonzales, is a senior at Centennial High School. The board’s goals cover four areas: student success; communication, trust and human relations; budget and facilities management; and quality in human resources. The school board holds a regular board meeting at 6:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of every month at the LCPS administration building, 505 S. Main St., Suite 247, Loretto Towne Centre. It holds a work session at 4 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month, except in July. Meetings are televised live on CLC-TV channel 20. For information, including district maps, visit http://lcps.k12.nm.us/school-board.

Maria Flores

Barbara Hall

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

EDUCATION

Local Legend DIANE SCHUTZ TAKES HER ‘RETIREMENT’ SERIOUSLY

❚ BY MIKE COOK

Diane Schutz retired almost 10 years ago, but you’d never know it. Since hanging up her baton after more than 20 years as the choir director at Las Cruces High School in 2006, Schutz has become the director of a senior community choir called the Good Time Singers, collaborates regularly with playwright/ director/producer Mark Medoff, Las Cruces Symphony Director Lonnie Klein and New Mexico State University theatre arts professor and producer Megan McQueen on theatrical productions; supervises student teachers for NMSU; travels extensively to participate in choir clinics and workshops; continues to serve as an accompanist and mentor at three high schools and two middle schools in Las Cruces and a middle school in El Paso; plays percussion for the Mesilla Valley Concert Band; is a 26-year member of the Dr. Ron Thielman High Society Orchestra; plays the piano occasionally for weddings and funerals; and is the full-time organist and director of the children’s choir and the Youth Vocal Band at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. Altogether, Schutz has been at it for about 40 years. A native of Los Angeles, Schutz has a picture of herself at 18 months, pounding on a piano. She started taking piano lessons at age 3 and gave her first church choir solo that same year — standing on a Coca Cola box. She sang in a quartet in junior high in

Los Angeles; played in the band, sang in the choir and performed in all the musicals in high school, and even directed the choir (and graduation) at Harbonne High School in Harbor City, California for two months while the director was in the hospital. Schutz attended Texas Christian University in Fort Worth to earn a Bachelor of Arts in music education. At TCU, she was part of a summer missionary program, serving as a music teacher and recreation director for homeless and abused children. Schutz finally made her way to Las Cruces in 1975, enrolling at NMSU and becoming its first graduate with a choral conducting degree. After graduation, she became the accompanist for the Gadsden High School band, where she also started the choral program. Later, Schutz also started the choir program at Santa Teresa High School. After three years, Schutz moved to Las Cruces Public Schools, teaching choir at three elementary and two middle schools before moving to LCHS. Her 20 years as choir teacher at the city’s oldest high school produced many fond memories and great students – some of whom are professional musicians, singers, actors and dancers today. Schutz said her proudest moment was conducting seven LCHS choirs in a two-hour concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City on Easter Sunday 2001.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

B A L L A

gie us, Ag e p m a ’s c f th NMSU the home o n o y l t ec en as be ed dir . Locat Stadium h since 1978 he stadium l a ri at t am ity Memo football te ome game val Univers ’ i h s r he t e t t s Aggi ies’ fir 978 agains ears later m g g A y The 20 16, 1 tadiu Sept. o Miners; in at the s . The n o s s a wa Pa ag ans ,993 f s met xas-El of Te and Miner -record 32 m s Club Aggie of a stadiu es. ion of ted. t c t m u i n r t t o ple in fr both cons s won , 2015, the m, was com current e i g g A SU’s stadiu ct. 24 On O ox for the d after NM h governor 27t nt skyb ame 27, a box was n uthers, the th preside 7 r r 2 ky The s nt, Gary Ca ell as the w e s d i a pres xico w Me e N f o SU. of NM L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

SPORTS & RECREATION

E H T UT

! s e i g g A

WOMEN’S SPORTS Women’s sports outnumber men’s sports at NMSU with 11 teams verus men’s six teams.

• Basketball • Cross Country • Volleyball • Soccer

• Outdoor Track & Field • Golf • Swimming and Diving

• Equestrian

• Tennis

• Indoor Track & Field

• Softball

The Aggies’ women’s teams see successes across the board, such as: • Women’s Basketball: Repeat WAC champions (15’ and 16’)

• Women’s Cross Country: Received the 2016 the U.S Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches • Association’s (USTFCCCA) AllAcademic Award • Volleyball: WAC conference and

MEN’S SPORTS

The 2014-2015 Aggies men’s tennis team brought home the WAC championship title after routing University of Texas- Pan American, 4-3.

• Baseball • Basketball • Football

tournament champions

• Equestrian: United Equestrian Conference champions; 11th in the nation • Indoor and Outdoor Track & Field: Third Place at WAC indoor championships • Golf: 2016 WAC champions • Swimming and Diving: 2nd at WAC swimming championships

• Cross Country • Golf • Tennis

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SPORTS & RECREATION

FAMOUS COACHES • LOU HENSON Henson began his career at NMSU in 1950 as a guard on the Aggies’ basketball team. He was the Aggies’ head basketball coach from 1966 to 1975, and again from 1997 to 2005. Henson coached at the University of Illinois from 1975 to 1996. Henson brought both of the schools the most wins of any coach past or present. • PRESLEY ASKEW Askew coached both the Aggies’ men’s basketball and baseball teams during

the 1950s and early ‘60s. He led the basketball team to a border conference championship in 1960, and two appearances in the NCAA tournament. Askew is also a member of the Helms Baseball Hall of Fame. • WARREN WOODSON Woodson was NMSU football’s head coach from 1958-1967. In 1960, Woodson led the team to the only perfect season in school history, and the 17th spot of the national rankings.

PISTOL PETE The Aggies mascot, Pistol Pete, is based on a real Oklahoma cowboy from the 1800s named Frank Eaton, who earned the nickname with his shooting skills. In 2014, Oklahoma State University (also with Pistol Pete as its mascot) sued New Mexico State, claiming the Aggies had stolen the classic mascot design and made a lot of money from it. The dispute was resolved without a lawsuit, and the Aggies are allowed to use the classic version of the mascot on a limited basis and pay a nominal fee to OSU each year to use the mascot. The classic logo cannot be used for athletics, but for some vintage merchandise sold through the university.

STRIKING THE WONDER DOG

Striking the Wonder Dog made his debut on Aug. 30, 2012 as NMSU’s very own canine “receiver.” Striking retrieves the kicking tee after every kickoff at each home football game. Striking and his handler, Steve Stochaj, replaced longtime favorite Smoki and his handler Joel Sims.

PAN AMERICAN CENTER

Opened in November 1968, the Pan American Center (PAC) has been the home court for Aggies basketball and volleyball. It was once nicknamed “Pandemonium Center” by famous college basketball announcer Dick Vitale. He coined the name in the 1998 and 1999 editions of his college basketball review. He wrote that the student section made the PAC one of the toughest venues to play in the nation and the toughest venue in the Big West Conference; those students were given the name “Panamaniacs.”

TICKETS AND SEASON PASSES

Get information, news and updates, merchandise, tickets and season passes on New Mexico State University Athletics website: www.nmstatesports.com

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

CHARLEY JOHNSON IS AN NMSU ICON

❚ BY MIKE COOK

Charley Johnson is the last quarterback to lead the New Mexico State University Aggies football team to an undefeated season – it went 11-0 in 1960, ranked 17th in the nation and won its second consecutive Sun Bowl. Johnson also played 15 years in the National Football League and was one of the first players inducted into the Denver Broncos Ring of Honor. He led the Super Bowl champions to their first winning season in 1973. Johnson and his wife, Barbara, returned to Las Cruces more than a decade ago. Now 77 and retired, he remains an ardent Aggie supporter and NMSU stalwart. “Charley Johnson is one of our NMSU icons — football star, businessman, faculty member/academic, soldier, department head and always a great Aggie,” said NMSU Chancellor Garrey Carruthers. “A bright man who received his Ph.D. in chemical engineering while playing NFL football. It is my honor to call him friend.” Johnson is a charter member of the NMSU Athletics Hall of Fame, a member of both the New Mexico and Texas sports halls of fame

SPORTS & RECREATION

Local Legend and he has the only retired number (33) in Aggie football history. Johnson was born and grew up in Big Spring, Texas, where he lettered in football, baseball, basketball and golf. After high school, he attended the Schreiner Institute in Kerrville, Texas on a football scholarship, but played basketball after the school dropped football. Johnson was then recruited by New Mexico A&M (which became NMSU in 1960) on a basketball scholarship, but tried out for the football team and joined in 1958. The Aggies won the 1959 Sun Bowl 28-8 over North Texas State, and defeated Utah State 20-13 in 1960. Johnson was named most valuable player in both Sun Bowls, and remains the only player in NCAA football history to win the MVP award two consecutive years in the same bowl game. He was named to the 75th Anniversary All-Sun Bowl Team in 2008. He was drafted by the then St. Louis Cardinals — his favorite team growing up — and he described playing in the NFL as “breathtaking.”

DANNY VILLANUEVA (1937-2015)

Villanueva was a punter, placekicker and quarterback for the Aggies in 1958 and 1959. He helped lead the Aggies to an 8-3 season as a senior, including a 28-8 win over North Texas in the 1959 Sun Bowl. He went on to play in the National Football League as a punter and placekicker for the Los Angeles Rams and Dallas Cowboys. After his time in the NFL, he went on to a career in television, and was also an executive for Major League Soccer.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

PARKS AND RECREATION FACILITIES 1. Albert Johnson Park Corner of Picacho Avenue and Main Street Benches, tables

14. Four Hills Park Lunarridge St. and Mars Ave. Picnic tables, playground

28. Las Cruces Dog Park Hadley Avenue and Hermosa St. Shelter, fountain

2. Apodaca Park 801 E. Madrid Ave. Picnic tables, restrooms, playgrounds, tennis courts, baseball field, softball field

15. Frank O’Brien Papen Community Center 304 W. Bell Ave. 575-541-2455 Picnic tables, restrooms, playground, gymnasium

29. Las Cruces Regional Aquatic Center 1401 E. Hadley Ave. 575-541-2782 Indoor swimming, lap swimming, restrooms, social gathering area

3. Benavidez Community Center 1045 W. McClure Road 575-541-5185 Picnic tables, restrooms, pool tables, basketball court, playground

16. Frank O’Brien Papen Park 400 Bell Ave. Benches, shelter, tables, play area, fountain, grills, basketball courts, horseshoes

30. Las Cruces Skate Park Walnut St. and Hadley Ave. BMX track, skateboard park

4. Branigan Park 1255 W. Hayner Ave. Playground, multi-purpose field

17. Frenger Indoor Pool/Park 800 Parkview Dr. 575-523-0362 Playground, tennis courts

5. Burn Lake/Ballfields 1855 W. Amador Ave. Picnic tables, restrooms, multipurpose field

18. Gus Vlachakis Park 2800 E. Missouri Ave. Benches, shelter, tables, play area

6. Camuñez Park 935 N. Valley Dr. Picnic tables, playground, multipurpose field, basketball court 7. Cardon Park 1050 N. Mesquite St. Picnic tables, playground, basketball court 8. Country Club Estates Park 2800 Spitz St. Picnic tables, playground, multipurpose field 9. Desert Trails Community Park 3942 Sonora Springs Road Fountains 10. East Mesa Bataan Memorial Swimming Pool 6141 Reynolds Drive 575-382-6450 11. East Mesa Recreation Center 5589 Porter Drive 575-382-1662 Restrooms, playground, softball and baseball field 12. El Encanto Parquite 410 Avenida de Mesilla Playground, basketball court 13. Field of Dreams 2004 Bruins Lane Soccer, softball and baseball fields

19. Harty Fields 1840 E. Hadley Ave. Softball field 20. Hermosa Heights Park 1800 E. Amador Ave. Play area, fountain 21. High Noon Soccer Complex 2004 Bruins Lane 22. Jason Jiron Park 355 Three Crosses Ave. Picnic tables, multi-purpose field, basketball court, volleyball, playground 23. Klein Park 155 N. Mesquite St. Benches, picnic tables, play area, grills, basketball courts 24. Laabs Pool 750 W. Picacho Ave. 575-524-3168 25. La Buena Vida Park Buena Vida Circle Benches, picnic tables, play area, fountains 26. La Llorona Park West Picacho Avenue Picnic tables, restrooms, playground, three-mile trail along Rio Grande 27. Las Cruces BMX Track Walnut Street and Hadley Ave. Restrooms, BMX track

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

31. Lions Park/Tennis Court 701 W. Picacho Ave. Picnic tables, playground, tennis courts, racquetball 32. Maag Ballfield Complex 1700 E. Hadley Ave. Benches, fountains, baseball fields 33. Matt Youngblood Horseshoe Courts 1800 E. Hadley Ave. 34. Meerscheidt Recreation Center 1600 E. Hadley Ave. 575-541-2563 Restrooms, playground, racquetball, basketball court, volleyball, weight room, gymnasium, fitness room 35. Metro Verde Community Park San Clemente Ave. 36. Munson Senior Center 975 S. Mesquite St. Restrooms, gymnasium 37. North Las Cruces Park 1005 Valley View Ave. Benches, shelter, picnic tables, play area, grills 38. Northridge Park 3245 Westridge Drive 39. Paz Ballfield Park 1875 E. Hadley Ave. Benches, fountains, baseball fields 40. Pioneer Women’s Park 500 W. Las Cruces Ave. Benches, shelter, picnic tables, play ground, gazebo 41. Provencio/Van Dame Multi-Purpose Field 600 N. Solano Dr. Soccer fields

49. Sunrise Terrace Park 2400 E. Hadley Ave. Tables, playground, Frisbee golf

43. Sagecrest Park 601 N. Roadrunner Parkway Picnic tables, playground, basketball court

50. Sunset Hills Park 3333 Lunarridge St. Picnic tables, basketball court

55. Valley Verde Park 1751 W. Hadley Ave. Picnic tables, basketball court, playground

44. Salopek/Stull Park 464 Salopek Blvd. Basketball court, playground

51. Tellbrook Park 5037 Shadow Mountain Road Picnic tables, playground, basketball court, fitness stations

45. Sam Graft Park 4230 Sedona Hills Parkway Playground, sand volleyball court, basketball court

52. Tony Gomez Park 2010 S. Espina St. Picnic tables, baseball field, playground

46. Sammy Burke Youth Boxing Center 700 N. Solano Dr.

53. Triviz Multi-Purpose Path 4.5-mile path along west side of Interstate 25. Benches, mile markers, water fountains OR RD. TAYLUnidad 54. Park 1501 E. Hadley Ave. Picnic tables, playground

57. Villa Encantada Park 1236 Birch Ave. Picnic tables, playground, basketball court 58. Vista de la Montaña 1500 Porter Drive Playground, shelter 59. Young Park 1905 E. Nevada Ave. Picnic tables, restrooms, playground, tennis courts, soccer field, pond For information, call 575-541-2550.

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48. Soldados Multi-Purpose Field Walnut St. and Hadley Ave.

56. Veterans Memorial Park 2651 N. Roadrunner Parkway Picnic tables, restrooms, multipurpose field, war memorials

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47. San Jose Park 100 N. Espina St.

SPORTS & RECREATION

42. Ronald D. Galla T-Ball Field 1800 E. Hadley Ave. Baseball field, restrooms

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SPORTS & RECREATION

RECREATION LEAGUES AND ORGANIZATIONS Bike and Chowder Club 575-522-2555 Christian Baseball Leagues Rick Ortiz 575-639-5157 www.lccbl.com City of Las Cruces Athletics 575-541-2563 www.las-cruces.org Community Sports Association 575-640-2227 www.csanm.com Doña Ana County Senior Olympics 575-386-2050 575-649-3167 Las Cruces Aquatic Team 575-642-1299

Las Cruces Bantamweight Sports Association 575-522-3010 bantamweightsports.webs.com Las Cruces Coyotes Women's Football League 575-639-0750 Las Cruces PAL Boxing Club lcpal@bullypro.com lascrucespalboxing.com Las Cruces Tennis Players Association 575-527-0299 Las Cruces Youth Baseball Association 575-680-0284 www.lcyba.com

Las Cruces Youth Soccer League 575-523-0261 Mesilla Valley Track Club 575-524-7824 Mesilla Valley Road Riders 575-526-6778 Mesilla Valley Soccer League 575-415-4625 www.mesillavalleysoccer.org Midnight Basketball 575-541-2563 Old Timer’s Baseball League 575-541-6464 Picacho Gun Club 575-524-2530 www.picachogunclub.com

GOLF COURSES Sonoma Ranch Golf Course

1274 Golf Club Road 575-521-1818 www.sonomaranchgolf.com Situated with spectacular vistas of the Organs, Sonoma stretches to a full 7,000 yards and has five teeing areas. With plenty of elevation changes, the course is green year round. The expansive practice range has two putting greens. The pro shop is fully stocked and the clubhouse has a sports bar and a top-notch restaurant. Several teaching pros offer golf lessons, and Sonoma is the home to Performance Golf Schools which conducts weekend intensive programs. Greens fees, which include cart, offer twilight and senior rates.

NMSU Golf Course

3000 Herb Wimberly Drive 575-646-3219 www.nmsu.edu/-golf Las Cruces is the home of New Mexico State University, which fields both men’s and women’s golf teams that compete in NCAA Division I-A. The university is also home to the Professional Golf Management program, sanctioned by the PGA of America. With Bermuda fairways and greens, the classic parks layout featuring plenty of mature trees, wide fairways, reachable par fives and large greens. Green and cart fees are reasonable, with walk-ons welcome. Golf lessons are available.

Picacho Hills Country Club

6861 Via Campestre 575-523-8641 www.picachohillscc.com One of two private golf clubs in Las Cruces, PHCC is situated in the middle of a golfing community on the West Mesa, just west of the city proper, where spacious Santa Fe style homes rise from the desert. The golf course is one of the most difficult and demanding in town, a fact validated by its slope rating of 136. The Kentucky Bluegrass is green all year and the greens are always tricky. The amazing view of the lighted city from the clubhouse bar and restaurant is unparalleled. Golfing guests must be accompanied by a member.

Red Hawk Golf Club

7502 Red Hawk Golf Road 575-373-8100 www.golflascruces.com Situated just north of Highway 70, off Sonoma Ranch Blvd., Red Hawk Gold Club is the newest, and certainly the longest, golf course in town. Designed by architect Ken Dye, Red Hawk will be eventually surrounded by a residential community, but homes will not interfere with the spacious fairways. Red Hawk has five sets of tees which range from 7,523 yards at the tops down to 5,502 yards from the most forward tees. The views are spectacular.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

❚ BY CHRISTOPHE CHINO PHOTO BY TRACY ROY

With two state parks, two national monuments and countless trails and paths a short drive away, the Las Cruces area is bound to satisfy any outdoor adventurer’s appetite. No matter if you are into mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing or just enjoying a lateafternoon stroll, Las Cruces can be the mecca of outdoor excursions. In 2016, southern New Mexico was ninth in the country in “Lonely Planet” magazine for potential travel destinations. About a mile west outside of the city is the Mesilla Valley Bosque Park, known for its colorful wildlife, the park has many self-guided trails along with ranger-led tours. Much of the information for the park and the activities offered can be found at www.emnrd.state. nm.us. Another state park within a 25-minute drive from Las Cruces is the Leasburg Dam State Park in Radium Springs, New Mexico. The park hosts various events to draw in different types of outdoors enthusiasts from a monthly bird watching tour to star-gazing events. There is a long list of activities offered. Information on upcoming events and directions to the park can be found at www. stateparks.com. A little bit closer to home, and in constant view, the Organ Mountains - Desert Peaks National Monument offers a quick getaway from the busy life of the city. The Organ Mountains has many hiking and mountain biking trails, including Baylor Pass, Aguirre Spring, Soledad Canyon and Dripping Springs. “The Organ Mountains are simply beautiful,” said Carrie Hamblen, a member of the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks coalition and executive director of the Las Cruces Green Chamber. “The area has a huge

diversity of trails ranging from easy to difficult, and with the Organs only being a 10-minute drive from anywhere in Las Cruces, there’s no reason not to check it out.” Just an hour east on U.S. Highway 70 is White Sands National Monument, established in 1933. White Sands offers hiking, dune sledding, picnicking and other outdoor activities. The popular Full Moon Nights offer a unique experience. Learn more at www.nps. gov/whsa/index.htm. There are various groups that meet each week to either hike, run or bike the trails in the area, such as Jornada Hiking and Outdoors Club. Learn more at www.meetup.com/ jornadahikers. No matter your skill level, age or interests, Las Cruces and southern New Mexico have something to keep you active and engaged with the natural wonders of this amazing region of the country.

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SPORTS & RECREATION

ADVENTURES IN THE GREAT LAS CRUCES OUTDOORS

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

E M O H S I N W O â&#x20AC;&#x2122; T S N E W C U R DO C S A L O T C I M DYNA

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L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

❚ BY ZAK HANSEN AND SUSIE OUDERKIRK PHOTOS BY CHRISTOPHER BELARDE

Amidst its rapidly moving revitalization project, Downtown Las Cruces, home to museums, galleries, a variety of shops and cafes, three live theaters, an impressive used book store and the ever-artsy farmers and crafts market, stands as the heart of the Mesilla Valley’s visual and performing arts community. At the center of the mall is the historic Rio Grande Theatre, its iconic façade and glowing neon sign the brightest jewel in Downtown Las Cruces’ crown. Today, the theater welcomes to its stage everything from international touring performing artists and Broadway-bound theatrical premieres to local and student theater troupes and up-and-coming area musicians. The Rio Grande also houses two galleries and, on its second floor, the offices of the Doña Ana Arts Council. At the north end of Main Street downtown, Las Cruces’ longstanding community theater companies — Las Cruces Community Theatre and No Strings Theatre Company — bring the stage to life.

Since 1976, Las Cruces Community Theatre has called the old State Theatre on Main Street home. “The Las Cruces Community Theatre has been an integral part of the thriving arts community downtown for more than 40 years,” said Janet Beatty-Payne. “LCCT moved into the old State Theater building in 1976 and has been bringing people downtown consistently longer than any other dramatic arts venue in this area. We at LCCT are proud of our heritage as a force downtown and are working hard to keep our theater home in the heart of Las Cruces as we head into our 54th season and for years to come." Housed at the Black Box Theatre, No Strings Theatre Company also finds home and heart in Downtown Las Cruces. “Fortunately, the three theatres downtown all have somewhat different niches,” said No Strings Theatre Company’s Artistic Director Ceil Herman. “The Rio Grande is a receiving house which brings in productions mounted elsewhere. Both No Strings Theatre Company (NSTC) and the Las Cruces Community Theatre (LCCT) are producing houses that Continued on page 102 ❚

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❚ Continued from page 101 mount their own productions. However, NSTC generally chooses different sorts of plays.” NSTC’s goals are to produce contemporary or little-known works overlooked by other companies in the city and to provide an opportunity for local playwrights to develop new works, Herman said. “NSTC prides itself on being extremely patron friendly, to provide all visitors with a positive play-going experience,” Herman said. “We have the smallest and most intimate theatre space in Las Cruces. This intimate space is totally flexible and can be rearranged into different seating configurations to allow each director to choose the layout which best showcases their play.” Herman was recently honored as Artist of the Year in 2016 by the ArtForms Association for her contribution to the Las Cruces arts scene. The visual arts, too, have held their ground downtown, with more than a dozen art galleries and museums in the area, showcasing the diverse work being created by area artists and beyond.

Mesilla Valley Film Society www.mesillavalleyfilm.org Independent, International and Documentary films New films every Friday

The Fountain Theatre 2469 Calle de Guadalupe, Mesilla, NM

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Many of the Downtown galleries open their doors and unveil new exhibits in a popular monthly evening of food, fun and art – the Downtown Art Ramble, from 5 to 7 p.m. the first Friday of each month. “My gallery had the honor of being a part of it from the very beginning. It took no time at all to establish the ramble as a monthly event,” Jim Turrentine, owner of Big Picture Digital Image Experts and Gallery, said. Turrentine said the ramble gives him the opportunity as a gallery owner to “introduce 12 new exhibits each year to feature local and not-so-local artists, and exhibit the works of several other artists on an ongoing basis. The ramble has been one of the instrumental forces as the revitalization of downtown Las Cruces continues.” Jack LeSage is a local artist who serves as director of the Las Cruces Arts Association, which operates its pop-up Art on Easels Gallery from the Community Enterprise Center, 125 N. Main St. “The art world in Las Cruces is comprised of a surprising number of talented, creative people,” he said. “Visual and performing artists using all types of mediums, photographers, potters, print makers, fiber artists, weavers, sculptors, writers, musicians and performers, all looking for a way to express themselves, and gain recognition for their talent.” Sandra Bender, who owns Mas Art Frame and Art Supply with her husband, Malu, identifies the magical mix of old and new as an important aspect of the downtown art scene. “The art world in Las Cruces is great because the art is as diverse as the community; Las Cruces artists — the young as well as the experienced — work intensively and seriously in perfecting their art skills. And it shows in the quality of the work shown here,” Bender said. “Las Cruces offers its art audience the best talents that originate from the young ‘just-arrived’ artists from NMSU, as well as the experienced and well-established names. This makes for a diversified but solid art community. This is an amazing place to be. We have the very best art forms from cinema to theater, from fine art to sculpture, music, jewelry and weaving to name just a few. We have it all! What’s not to like?”

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

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LAS CRUCENS REVEL IN FIESTAS OF EVERY FLAVOR, COLOR, SOUND ❚ BY ZAK HANSEN

Clear your calendars. According to Philip San Filippo, executive director of the Las Cruces Convention & Visitors Bureau, Las Cruces offers something for everyone. “Almost every weekend there is a unique and fun event or festival happening in our city,” he said. “I have lived in several states throughout my life and have traveled extensively; I can honestly say that Las Cruces always has something fun and exciting to attend. When I have friends visit from other parts of the country, they are astounded about the activities that are taking place in Las Cruces. I feel very fortunate to live in such a friendly and active community.” He’s right — Las Cruces celebrates its unique culinary traditions, its vibrant visual and performing arts community and its rich cultural heritage with festivals and community events held the whole year ’round. Ask any local — the Mesilla Valley has its very own flavor — nothing else is quite like it. To that end, each year in southern New Mexico, bread is broken and the area’s finest food and drink are toasted with festivals all their own. Southern New Mexico’s world-renowned chile crop is celebrated with the Hatch Chile Festival at the end of summer. Wine lovers rejoice at festivals that champion the region’s winemaking traditions, dating back to the 1600s. All things hot and spicy are the centerpiece of SalsaFest! The twin triumvirates of Tequila, Tacos and Cerveza and Beer, Bacon and Bourbon each get their due with events geared toward the college crowd. New Mexico’s

booming craft-brew culture is toasted with spring, summer and fall beer festivals. When you’re done eating, there’s plenty of room on the calendar to exalt the arts; in fact, the city has dedicated the entire month of February — For the Love of Art month — to just that. This month-long celebration of all things art is joined by the two-day, 80-artist Las Cruces Arts Fair, the 45-years-strong Renaissance ArtsFaire, the star-studded Las Cruces Country Music Festival, the freshman phenomenon Las Cruces International Film Festival and Avenue Art New Mexico, which invites local artists to chalk their masterpieces directly on to Downtown Main Street. There’s also the city’s summer Music in the Park series, the Mesilla Valley Jazz & Blues Society’s Mesilla Jazz Happening and newly minted Red, White and Brew Festival along with a host of one-off performances and daylong performing arts events. Food and art are only one part of the equation; southern New Mexico’s deep roots are watered each year with events honoring its rich, multicultural heritage. The Town of Mesilla hosts three annual festivals — Cinco de Mayo, Diez y Seis de Septiembre and Dia de los Muertos — that pay homage to the area’s lasting ties to Mexico. Preserving the area’s agricultural roots is the mission of the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum, which celebrates Cowboy Days one weekend in March. Closing out the year, the New Year’s Eve Chile Drop gained national attention, well on its way to traditionhood.

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FILM LAS CRUCES AIMS TO EXPAND INDUSTRY IN SOUTHERN NEW MEXICO ❚ BY MIKE COOK

If the new Film Las Cruces (FLC) nonprofit has its way, film and television producers will soon be making their way to Las Cruces to make movies and TV shows. Las Cruces offers great weather year-round, outstanding locations and a welcoming community to filmmakers. It’s also close to a major airport (El Paso) and West Coast film production, and just a few hours south of booming film and TV production in Albuquerque and Santa Fe. FLC has an 18-member board of directors, with State. Rep. Jeff Steinborn as president and long-time arts advocate Irene Oliver-Lewis as vice president. Other board members include local filmmakers, entrepreneurs, business owners and media educators from New Mexico State University and Doña Ana Community College. A three-year memorandum of understanding with the City of Las Cruces provides FLC with nearly $300,000 in funding over the next three years, and it has already secured office space near Pioneer Women’s Park in Downtown Las Cruces. Following a nationwide search, FLC selected Scott Murray as its film liaison in June 2016, and are working with the city on finding a site for a soundstage and the money to build it. The FLC board also will develop a website that includes a database of local film locations and film-friendly vendors; step up national promotion of Las Cruces as a film and television location; begin educating the business community and local residents about what to expect when filmmakers come to town; and work with New Mexico State University, Doña Ana Community College and Las Cruces Public

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Schools to develop a film-knowledgeable workforce. Media programs already in place at NMSU and DACC “are great assets to build from,” Steinborn said. “We are setting the foundation for excellence,” said Oliver-Lewis. “We did a lot of research in and out of state. We know that we’re making a buzz in the film industry, everybody is talking about it; now we’re on the map,” she said. “We want to start out right and make sure it grows and make sure it flourishes and adds to our community.” Steinborn does not have a media background. A land conservationist for the New Mexico Wilderness Alliance, he got interested in the film industry as a member of the New Mexico House Taxation and Revenue Committee. “I just saw an opportunity,” Steinborn said. “I felt the presence of this very vibrant industry (in New Mexico).” Las Cruces and southern New Mexico “had all the DNA to be successful (in film and television production), but we hadn’t put the pieces together,” Steinborn said. That’s when he helped start the Regional Film Development Advisory Committee, which evolved into Film Las Cruces earlier this year. FLC board member Ross Marks, an assistant professor of film at NMSU’s Creative Media Institute and long-time filmmaker, is also executive director of the Las Cruces International Film Festival. “FLC is the needed element to get film going in our community,” Marks said. “There is a heck of a film industry opportunity for us. I think we’re going to see a real explosion of film and entertainment opportunities in 12-18 months.”

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

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Visit the City of Las Cruces Museums: Art, Culture, Science, and Railroading

Downtown on N. Main & 351 N. Mesilla St. Open: Tuesday - Friday 10am to 4:30pm Saturday 9am to 4:30pm Closed: Sundays, Mondays & Holidays museums.las-cruces.org 575-541-2296

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R. 7. Blue Gate Gallery 311 N. Main St. 575-523-2950

2. Art On Easels Gallery Community Enterprise Center 125 N. Main St. www.lascrucesarts.co

8. Boudreau Jewelers & Gallery 2001 E. Lohman Ave., Suite 125 MOHEGAN 575-524-4300

3. Adobe Patio Gallery 1765 Avenida de Mercado 575-532-9310 www.adobepatiogallery.com

9. Branigan Cultural Center 501 N. Main St. 575-541-2154. LOPEZ www.las-cruces.org/museums

4. Art Obscura Gallery 3206 Harrelson St. 575-494-7256 www.artobscuragallery.com

10. Camino Tattoo and Fine Art Gallery 501 E. Hadley Ave. 575-523-1012 www.caminotattoostudio.com

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17. El Paso Electric Gallery Rio Grande Theatre R. ED RIS 211 N. Main St. RTH NO 575-523-6403 TA www.riograndetheatre.com RNING S

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12. Cottonwood Gallery Southwest Environmental Center 275 N. Main St. 575-647-3546 www.wildmesquite.com

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16. El Jardin de Las Cruces SETTLE 4010 N. Valley Drive RS PA SS 575-649-6556 www.facebook.com/pages/el-jarMOHEGAN din-de-las-cruces

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15. Doña Ana County Government Center DR. 845 N. Motel Blvd. SE I R 575-647-7200 RTH www.donaanacounty.org NO

11. Connie Hines Gallery LOPEZAve. 428 W. Griggs . 575-523-1809 ST IN www.conniehinesdesign.com

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14. Desert Roots Artists’ Market and Gallery 1001 S. Solano Drive O 575-652-7366 MEM N www.facebook.com/desertrootslc A A

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5. Barricade Culture Shop d Hoaglan 608 S. Solano Drive 575-312-9271 www.barricadecultureshop.com 6. Big Picture Digital Image Experts and Gallery 311 N. Main St. 575-647-0508 http://bigpicts.com

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1. Aa Studios 2645 Doña Ana Road 575-541-9770

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19. Las Cruces Museum of Art 491 N. Main St. 575-541-2137 www.las-cruces.org/ museums

27. MVS Studios 535 N. Main St. 575-524-3636 www.mvsstudios.com

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21. Lundeen Inn of the Arts 618 S. Alameda Blvd. 575-526-3326 www.innofthearts.com FFE YS T.

26. Milagro Coffee y Espresso 1733 E University Ave. 575-523-1042

23. Mas Art 126 S. Main St. 575-526-9113 www.masartllc.com A HILLS

28. New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum 4100 Dripping Springs Road 575-522-4100 www.nmfarmandranchmuseum.org

29. New Mexico State 34. The Potteries University Art Gallery 2260 Calle de Santiago D.W. Williams Hall 575-524-0538 1930 E. University Ave. www.thepotteriesme575-646-5423 silla.com www.nmsu.edu/artgal 35. Quillin-Stephens 30. New Mexico State Gallery University Corbett 317 N. Main St. Center Gallery 575-312-1064 Corbett Student Union S. Jordan Road 36. Rokoko Gallery New Mexico State 4901 Chippewa Trail University 575-522-5553 575-646-3235 www.rokokoart.com 31. New Mexico State 37. Tombaugh Gallery University Museum Unitarian Universalist Kent Hall Church of Las Cruces 1280 E. University Ave. 2000 S. Solano Drive 575-646-5161 575-522-7281 www.univmuseum. www.uuchurchlc.org nmsu.edu 38. Unsettled Gallery 32. Nopalito’s Galería 905 N. Mesquite St. 326 S. Mesquite St. 575-635-2285 575-524-0003 www.unsettledgallery. www.nopalitosgaleria. com com 39. Zuhl Museum 33. Picture Frame NMSU Alumni and Factory Outlet Visitors Center 382 S. Walnut St. 575-646-3616 575-526-4048 www.pffolc.com

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25. Mesquite Art Gallery 340 N. Mesquite St. 575-640-3502 www.mesquiteartgallery.com

20. LuLu Fine Arts Gallery 1800 Avenida de Mesilla 523-4747

22. M. Phillip’s Fine Art Gallery 221 N. Main St. 575-525-1367 www.mphillipsgallery. com

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24. Mesilla Valley Fine Arts Gallery 2470-A Calle de Guadalupe 575-522-2933 www.mesillavalleyfinearts.com

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18. Firebird Rising Fine Art Gallery 330 W. Mountain Ave. 575-303-2434 www.facebook.com/ firebirdrisingfineart

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THERE ARE MANY PLACES TO ENJOY LIVE MUSIC IN CRUCES ❚ BY DAWN FRANCO

Las Cruces isn’t just a great community, but also a musical one. From underground bands and acoustic acts to local troubadours, hip-hop or metal, there’s a venue for all musical displays in Las Cruces. There are several bars, an antique shop, a skate shop, the Pan American Center at New Mexico State University and other locations to feed your ears good tunes. New Mexico State University also offers a place for the whole family to enjoy live instrumentation and performance. Looking for hip locals and underground, out-of-state entertainment? Try Art Obscura, the Bean, Halo’s Hookah Lounge and High Desert Brewing Co. The Pan American Center has large concerts. Rio Grande Theatre features more worldly music. DJs, hip-hop and metal more your scene? Make your way to El Patio, the Warehouse, Barricade Culture shop and Dublin’s Street Pub. Family-friendly tunes? The Game, Café A Go Go and Luna Rossa feature cover artists, local acts and serve fine cuisine. Last but not least, check out Picacho Peak Brewing Company, Amaro Winery and NM Vintage Wines for jazz feels, folk and full-band variety.

FYI/LOCAL MUSIC VENUES

All-ages shows • Art Obscura, 3206 Harrelson St. • The Bean, 2011 Avenida de Mesilla • Barricade Culture Shop, 608 S. Solano Drive • Café a Go Go, 1120 Commerce Drive • The Game Sports Bar and Grill, 2605 S. Espina St. • Luna Rossa, 1321 Avenida de Mesilla • NMSU Pan-American Center, 1810 E. University Ave. • NM Vintage Wines, 2461 Calle de Principal, Mesilla • Rio Grande Theatre, 221 N. Main St.

21+ SHOWS

• El Patio, 2171 Calle De Parian in Mesilla • Halo’s Hookah Lounge, 2460 S. Locust St., Suite F • The Warehouse, 1490 E. Missouri St. • Dublin’s Street Pub, 1745 E. University Ave. • Amaro Winery, 402 S. Melendres St. • Picacho Peak Brewing Co., 3900 W. Picacho Ave. • High Desert Brewing Co., 1201 W Hadley Ave.

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L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

A Children’s Theatre of the Mesilla Valley (ACT) 575-571-1413 act@zianet.com http://achildrenstheatre.wix.com/ achildrenstheatre

Farmers’ & Crafts Market of Las Cruces 575-201-3853 www.fcmlc.org

New Mexico Watercolor SocietySouthern Chapter www.nmwatercolorsociety.org

Foundation for Las Cruces Museums (FLCM) info@foundationlcm.com http://foundationlcm.com

No Strings Theatre Company (NSTC)/Black Box Theatre 575-523-1223 nstcbbt@zianet.com www.no-strings.org

Friends of Thomas Branigan Memorial Library http://libraryfriendslc.org

Potters Guild of Las Cruces pglc@q.com www.pottersguildlc.com

ArtForms Artists’ Association of New Mexico nmartforms@yahoo.com http://artformsnm.org

Las Cruces Arts Association (LCAA) webmaster@lascrucesarts.org www.lascrucesarts.org

Project Mainstreet projectmainstreetlc@gmail.com www.projectmainstreetlc.org

Artists of Picacho Hills www.artistsofpicachohills.com

Las Cruces Community Theatre (LCCT) 575-523-1200 www.lcctnm.org

American Southwest Theatre Company (ASTC) New Mexico State University Department of Theatre Arts 575-646-4517 www.nmsutheatre.com

The Border Artists contact@borderartists.org http://borderartists.org City of Las Cruces Museums 575-541-2296 www.las-cruces.org/museums Doña Ana Arts Council 575-523-6403 infodaac@daarts.org www.daarts.org

Mesilla Valley Film Society 575-524-8287 www.mesillavalleyfilm.org Mesilla Valley Jazz and Blues Society 575-525-9333 www.mvjazzblues.net

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ARTS ORGANIZATIONS

Scaffolding Theatre Company www.scaffoldingtheatrecompany. com Sin Fronteras/Writers Without Borders http://sinfronterasjournal.com Theatre Dojo www.theatre-dojo.org www.facebook.com/theatredojous

PERFORMING ARTS VENUES ASNMSU Center for the Arts 1000 E. University Ave. 575-646-4515 www.nmsutheatre.com

Fountain Theatre 2469 Calle de Guadalupe, Mesilla 575-524-8287 www.mesillavalleyfilm.org

Art Obscura Gallery 3206 Harrelson St. 575-494-7256 www.artobscuragallery.com

The Gin Studios 430 N. Compress Road 575-208-4413 www.projectinmotion.com

Black Box Theatre 430 N. Main St. 575-523-1223 www.no-strings.org

Isabel M. Crouch Readers Theatre New Mexico State University 575-646-4517 www.nmsutheatre.com

Boba Café and Cabaret 1900 S. Espina St. 575-647-5900 www.facebook.com/boba-cafecabaret Edith & F.E. Atkinson Recital Hall 1075 N. Horseshoe Drive New Mexico State University 575-646-2421 www.nmsu.edu/music

Las Cruces Convention Center 680 E. University Ave. 575-526-0100 www.meetinlascruces.com Las Cruces Community Theatre 313 N. Main St. 575-523-1200 http://lcctnm.org

Las Cruces Public Schools Performing Arts Center Oñate High School 5700 Mesa Grande Drive 575-527-5851 www.lcps.k12.nm.us New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum 4100 Dripping Springs Road 575-522-4100 www.nmfarmandranchmuseum.org Pan American Center 1810 E. University Ave. 575-646-1420 http://panam.nmsu.edu Rio Grande Theatre 211 N. Main St. 575-523-6403 www.riograndetheatre.com

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

DOWNTOWN LAS CRUCES

Shop and Play ces u r s a C L n w to n Dow

! r a J a in

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• Jalapeño Catsup • Besito Caliente • Cherry A’More

We Ship Nationwide! • Cannon’s Sweet Hots • Various Chile Products • 1FDBOT

The Truck Farm 575-523-1447 645 S. Alameda www.SWEETHOTS.com

Proudly serving Las Cruces for the past 50 years

Full Fu ull ll S Service ervi er vice vi ce Jewelers Jew ewel eler el ler e s

524-RUDY (7839)

Pueblo Plaza laza Center Centter 1100 S. Main, Suite 114

Tuesday-Friday 10am-5:30pm • Saturday 10am-2:00pm

ENGINEERINGARCHITECTURELANDSCAPEINTERIORS 115 W. Griggs Las Cruces, NM 88001 | 575.523.0915 | team-psc.com

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L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

Shop and Play ces u r s a C L n w to n Dow Las Cruces Downtown Partnership presents the 8th annual:

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

DOWNTOWN LAS CRUCES

Celebrating 37 years in Las Cruces!

October 1 and 2, 2016 Downtown Las Cruces Noon - 5 p.m. each day 575-525-1955 www.downtownlascruces.org

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

DOWNTOWN LAS CRUCES

Shop and Play s e c u r s a C L n Downtow hair skin nails massage

440 N. Main Street 575 647 4987 thespadowntownlc.com

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A Bookstore for everyone! Serving the Local Community for over 30 years. Visit our 2 locations:

317 N. Main St. Las Cruces, NM

1101 S. Solano Dr. Las Cruces, NM

Main Street Store Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9am - 6pm Sat, 9am - 6pm Sun. 12pm - 5pm

Solano Street Store Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9am - 6pm Sat. 9am - 6pm Sun. Closed Call Solano at: 575.524.8471 option 2

Call Main Street at: 575.524.8471

Browse and Shop our website at www.coasbooks.com

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

Revitalizing Downtown Las Cruces through: x x x x

Economic Development Design Promotions/Marketing Organizational Excellence

Learn more at downtownlascruces.org Download the FREE Heart of Las Cruces App for iPhone and Android for news, events, a robust business directory and more!

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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HOMES & DESERT LIVING

Built on Love ANNIVERSARY HOUSE BENEFITS MULTIPLE AREA NONPROFITS EACH YEAR

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L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

HOMES & DESERT LIVING

❚ BY ALTA LECOMPTE

In a room full of happy people attending the Las Cruces Home Builders Association ceremony to give away $86,000 to community nonprofits, held in March 2016, none was happier than Paul Saiz. Saiz is the man who made the party possible. He purchased the 2015 Anniversary House built by Veloz Homes, 3058 Cheyenne Drive. “I bought it a few months earlier than I had planned, but I wanted to make sure I was the one who bought it,” he said. “I really like the idea of the money going to the charities, of giving back to the community.” At a LCHBA ceremony for the 2015 Anniversary House, 17 nonprofits received checks. The 2016 house, 3675 Santa Cecilia Ave. in the Metro Verde development, broke ground on Thursday, April 28, 2016.

BUYER RETURNS TO LAS CRUCES

How the home sale came about is a story in itself. Saiz said he had seen the home online, but was looking for a previously owned home so at first he didn’t consider it. He was driving around with his real estate agent, Patricia Preciado of Coldwell Banker, when they passed a similar Veloz model. “Their agent, Charles Khajeh, took me over to the Anniversary House,” Saiz said. “In about 30 minutes, we pretty much had the contract completed.” Saiz said he has always liked the area and fell for the open floor plan, upgrades like the osmosis filter, the outdoor living area and the “beautiful things like the iron work everybody Continued on page 116❚

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❚ Continued from page 115 put into the home.” The clincher was a yard big enough to accommodate a full-sized basketball court he plans to build for his son. Saiz will wrap up his 24-year military career while gradually moving into his new home. “I love the community — it’s warm and military friendly,” he said of Las Cruces. Saiz earned a bachelor’s degree in government and philosophy and graduate degrees in government and international relations at New Mexico State University. He later flew Black Hawk search-and-rescue missions, commanded a unit at Las Cruces supporting U.S. Customs and Border Protection and served as assistant professor of military science and executive officer at NMSU.

PROJECT BUILT ON LOVE

Perhaps the second happiest man in the room was Jason Lorenz of Veloz Homes, who designed and custom built the home. Also enjoying the festivities were many subcontractors and building trades business owners who also gave of their time and talent to complete the three-bedroom, two-bath Spanish colonial home. Lorenz volunteered to build this year’s house

after enjoying the experience of presenting a check from the proceeds of the 2014 Anniversary House to Sister Beth Daddio for children's second-hand store Tutti Bambini. “It was neat,” Lorenz said. “I got to see their operations and meet Sister Beth. That connection was part of what made it fun for me to give away the money.” This year’s Anniversary House was sold at market value — and the “profit” was distributed to local nonprofits that provide for a wide range of community needs. “The proceeds of this home are allowing us to give back to the community that has supported the LCHBA and done so much for our members and their families,” said 2016 President Michael Fraembs of Arista Development. “We are honored to be able to share this money.” While some organizations plan to use their grants to help fund day-to-day operations, several are launching new programs or doing special projects for which they requested funding. Those include a MADD translation program, so clients can hear from victims of drunk driving in their own words; Turning Point of Las Cruces, which is starting a program for men to mentor and equip fathers and soon-tobe fathers; and Community of Hope Project Dignity bathroom construction.

FYI/ANNIVERSARY HOUSE RECIPIENTS • Las Cruces Gospel Mission, $5,000 • Big Brothers Big Sisters Mountain Region, $5,000 • Boys & Girls Club of Las Cruces, $5,000 • Cancer Aid Resource & Education (C.A.R.E.), $5,000

• LCHBA Community Service - Turkey Drive Program, $5,000 • MADD – Mothers Against Drunk Driving – Southern NM Region, $1,500 • Mesilla Valley CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), $5,000

• CareNet Pregnancy Center of Las Cruces, $5,000

• Showers of Grace, $3,000

• Mesilla Valley Habitat for Humanity, $5,000

• Tutti Bambini, $3,500

• Turning Point of Las Cruces Inc., $9,000

• Jardin de los Ninos, $4,000

• Mesilla Valley Community of Hope, $9,000

• La Piñon Sexual Assault Recovery Services of Southern NM, $5,000

• NMSU Foundation scholarship fund, $7,500

• Las Cruces Fraternal Order of Police Shop with a Cop Program, $5,000

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L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

❚ BY MARISSA BOND

Southwestern homes may have similar design elements, but they encompass a variety of architectural styles with descriptions full of words particular to the area. Whether you are new to Las Cruces or just always wondered, “What the heck does that word mean, anyway?” a collection of southwestern architectural terms will give you a better understanding of what makes the local architecture so unique. Common architectural styles you will encounter are Mission Revival, Pueblo Revival, Spanish Colonial, Territorial style and Contemporary Southwestern. Mission Revival structures have thick, adobe or adobe-like walls, usually with a plaster finish, few windows and doors, and low roofs covered in clay tiles. Pueblo Revival architecture typically has earth-colored adobe or stucco-covered walls with rounded corners at intersections, a parapet with canales to drain a flat roof, and vigas jutting through exterior walls. The windows are recessed under rough-hewn lintels, and roofline is designed to imitate the architecture of the pueblos. Spanish Colonials are typically one-story adobe structures surrounding an interior courtyard, with a long porch either facing the courtyard or facing the street. The streetfacing windows are frequently covered with ornamental grillwork, and the roof is flat. Territorial style is referential to the time when New Mexico became a territory in 1848. The buildings are typically one-story adobe with a flat roof. The exterior adobe walls are trimmed with coping and small vertical windows, called sidelights, flanking the front doors. Contemporary Southwestern borrows from many of the other styles, blending them with each other or modern design influences such as straight lines, brighter colors or varied earth tones and larger, more numerous windows.

Terms you may hear: Adobe: material made of a mixture of soil, clay and water, formed into bricks and left out in the sun to dry. Banco: a low, built-in earthen or plastered bench running along a wall, under a window or around a kiva. Baño: bathroom. Canales: drain spouts protruding through the parapet. Casa: house. Casita: a small house.

ican peoples, the term now commonly refers to a rounded fireplace Latilla: slender saplings stripped of bark and laid across vigas to form a ceiling. Lintel: an exposed, rough horizontal beam at top of doorways. Nicho: a niche inset into a wall, often arched. Parapet: raised portion of a wall extending above the roofline of a pueblo-style home.

Comedore: dining room.

Portal: an attached porch covered by the roof and supported by zapatas.

Coping: bricks, often kiln-fired, set into the top of an adobe wall.

Saltillo: a clay or terra cotta tile, either sunbaked or kiln-fired.

Corbel: a carved block at the top of a post, as a support structure to distribute weight or as a decorative bracket.

Stucco: a plaster or mud finish to walls, usually cement.

Cocina: kitchen.

Fogon: a corner-set fireplace, sometimes with wood-burning stovetop attached. Horno: a round, freestanding fireplace. Kiva: originally a subterranean meeting place used for rituals by some Native Amer-

HOMES & DESERT LIVING

UNIQUE LEXICON DESCRIBES VIBRANT SOUTHWEST ARCHITECTURE

Talavera: colorful, hand-decorated tile or pottery made of maiolica, traditionally from Puebla, Mexico. Vigas: Large log used as a ceiling beam, usually round. Zaguan: entry hall or courtyard. Zapatas: corbelled posts.

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Sojourn

COURTESY PHOTO The Ascarete-Neveres Complexa, 204 through 232 N. Campo St., is at the edge of the South Mesquite Historic District in Downtown Las Cruces.

TAKE A STROLL THROUGH TWO HISTORIC DISTRICTS

❚ BY CASSIE MCCLURE

With memories of home, it’s not always just the brick and mortar or adobe which lingers in your thoughts. It’s the community of people that you saw on the street, or the neighbor who let you borrow some sugar. However, the buildings help shape how we interact with our communities and in Las Cruces we have two special areas that have shaped their own neighborhoods and the community as a whole. The Alameda Depot Historic District centers on Pioneer Woman’s Park, established by the Woman’s Improvement Association in 1898. Its clubhouse, still standing on the east end of the park, was the city’s first formal library. To the west is the train depot, which helped in building homes. Unique materials could be easily delivered, which is why many homes in that district are not in traditional New Mexican adobe style. “The Alameda Depot area has been such a welcoming and comforting home since I returned to Las Cruces,” said Angelica Rubio, who lives in the Alameda Depot Historic District. “I’m lucky to be surrounded by good neighbors who look out for each other, and who provide for one another, when necessary.” But if you decide to live in a more traditional adobe setting, the Mesquite District would welcome you. Considered the original town site, it’s bounded by East Texas, Campo, Tornillo, and East Court streets. Las Esperanzas is an organization which highlights the historic value of the district and awards memorial plaques, much like the signs mounted to street lights and signs around the district, to house and landmark properties

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instrumental to the cultural history of the neighborhood. “The recipients commit to displaying their plaque for the community and city to see and appreciate,” said Paul Mach, member of Las Esperanzas, who said the group has more than 40 plaques to present in the next several years. It also plans to create a brochure for a selfguided walking tour of the South Mesquite Historic District. “People would walk the historic streets, spot a plaque and be able learn about the buildings and the people that helped carve out the history of Las Cruces,” Mach said. “When my husband and I built our house here in the original part of town three years ago, we were aware that there were many adobe houses built years and years ago, but we didn’t fully appreciate all the history behind them and the families that built them until we got involved with Las Esperanzas and got to know some of the descendants of those very families,” Mach said. “Indeed, these stories and history are fascinating, but the history of the Mesquite Historic District for those who are to come after us is being made by us living here today. Some people, new to the original town site and those whose families helped create it are seeing the value of preserving these adobe houses and living in the area,” Mach said. “The galleries and shops that have opened up, especially on Mesquite Street, are beginning to renew an interest in the area. The new plaza is going to bring more vitality downtown and I get to live within a stone’s throw of it all.”

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

HOMES & DESERT LIVING

Local Legend

HENRY C. TROST WAS AN ARCHITECT FOR THE AGES ❚ BY SUSIE OUDERKIRK

If you’ve ever driven by the Las Cruces Country Club or had classes in either Goddard Hall or in the English building on New Mexico State University’s campus, then you’re familiar with the work of architect Henry C. Trost. Trost designed houses and buildings all over the nation, and has his literal and figurative fingerprint on nearly 200 sites across New Mexico. In Las Cruces specifically, Trost and Trost Architects designed more than two dozen houses and buildings. The TRH Smith House at the corner of Alameda and Picacho, which was once a bed and breakfast, is a familiar Trost design, as is the Frank O Brien Papen Community Center on Bell Avenue in Mesilla. Trost, a native of Ohio by way of Chicago, settled in El Paso in 1903, and his architecture can be seen all over the area. His brother, Adolphus, relocated to El Paso at the turn of the century as well, and the brothers

originated Trost and Trost Architects in 1904. The Trosts pioneered the use of reinforced concrete and most of their buildings carry Henry’s unique stamp: horizontal lines paired with soft curves, often framing grid-like panels of fanciful designs. Known for letting his work speak for him, Trost’s architectural styles include prairie, mission revival, pueblo revival, Chicago art deco and Bhutanese design, the latter of which can be prominently seen on the campus of University of Texas El Paso. Just over the last two decades, Henry and Adolphus Trost have been receiving notoriety in the form of articles, biographies and restoration projects for their considerable contributions to New Mexico. The depth of Henry’s influence is apparent in a snippet from his obituary from 1933: “His was a life of purpose and achievement, and he leaves the Southwest richer for his having lived and worked in it.” – El Paso Times, 1933.

The Holt House, built in 1908, is perhaps the most notable of the architect’s designs in Las Cruces. At the southwest corner of Alameda Blvd. and Picacho Ave., the house has had many incarnations but still retains the original unique style. It is currently the office of the Camunez Law Firm.

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RECYCLING IN LAS CRUCES Curbside recycling for all recyclables except glass is provided as part of residential services throughout Las Cruces. A recycling bin will be delivered with a trash container and picked up every other week by Friedman Recycling. As of Earth Day 2014, the city accepts glass for recycling at its two recycling drop-off locations: South Central Solid Waste Authority (SCSWA), 2865 W. Amador Ave., and Sonoma Ranch landfill, 555 Sonoma Ranch Blvd. Going green can mean more for your yard than the rich hue of plant life. It can make your yard sparkle. The glass is ground up into different textures of cullet, which can be acquired for free for use in yards and decorative projects. The textures range from fine sand to pebble-sized. The courser cullet is popular for

landscaping, while the finer grounds can be used in potting soils. The glass crusher can process three or four tons of glass at a time, turning it from bottle to berm in an hour. The glass is sorted by color â&#x20AC;&#x201D; clear, blue, green and amber. Blue glass is the highest in demand, and not always available. Usually, glass on your lawn after a party is a nuisance or a danger. After a trip through SCSWAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crusher, however, party debris can make your landscape shine. If you have questions or comments about your recycling service, contact Friedman Recycling at 575-323-5086 or visit www. friedmanrecycling.com.

GET WATER WISE As drought concerns throughout the Southwest become a part of everyday reality, it is important to remember that individual decisions can make an impact on future livability for desert communities such as Las Cruces. One way to be water conscious is by installing water-conserving fixtures and appliances, such as low-flow toilets and showerheads. Another method is to learn to cultivate water-conserving habits, such as taking shorter showers or only running full loads in the dishwasher and washing machine. Both approaches are important to use together to preserve communities growing in arid climes. However, being water conscious does not mean you need a barren yard. Choose native or drought-tolerant plants to conserve water. If you have a lawn, deep, infrequent watering will

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promote deep root growth. Installing a dripwater system will supply water at the roots, and watering your plants early in the morning or in the evening will help limit the water lost to evaporation. Taking extra steps, such as installing a rainwater or gray water-harvesting system, will have a positive impact on both the environment and your water bill. Lush and Lean Workshops are free workshops put on by the Water Conservation Program of the City of Las Cruces. The annual spring workshop series educates attendees about water-wise irrigation, landscaping, gardening and more. For information about conserving water in the desert and the Lush and Lean Workshop series, visit the City of Las Cruces website at www.las-cruces.org/departments/utilities/ water-conservation.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

Whether you’re a newcomer or a lifelong resident, it doesn’t hurt to educate yourself on codes and ordinances set in place by the city to keep Las Cruces beautiful. Here are some common, everyday violations.

Solid waste pick-up

Containers must be rolled to a flat surface in the street, not on the sidewalk. Handles and wheels must face away from the street. All trash must be bagged or tied without overfilling the bin. The lid must be closed so trash doesn’t fly away. All bins should be at the street by 6 a.m. and removed by 7 p.m. Containers should be at least 5 feet away from other objects, including other trash or recycling bins. Trash pick-up occurs once a week per residence, the day of week depends on residence location in the city for specific pick-up days or for more information, call 575-528-3511.

Recycling pick-up

Recyclables shouldn’t be placed in bags. Containers must be placed on the street by 6 a.m. and removed by 7 p.m. Containers should be at least 5 feet away from other objects, including vehicles, trees and mailboxes. Recycle pick-up happens every other week, once a week depending on residence. For specific pick-up days or more information on recycling, call 575-528-3511.

Nuisance

Weeds, trash, tall grass and junk are considered a nuisance and must be removed from a private or public property. Weeds and tall grass should be pulled or cut down to ground level. The trimmings must be removed or bagged for the grappler to pick up.

Inoperable vehicles

This ordinance includes all motor vehicles that are abandoned, wrecked, dismantled or partially dismantled or not in operating condition, such as flat tires and dead batteries. These vehicles can’t be parked or stored on public or private property for more than 72 hours.

Signs

Signs – including those for yard sales or missing animals – must be placed on private property with the property owner’s permission. Signs aren’t permitted in or on road medians, shoulders, sidewalks or other city rights-of-way. They also can’t be posted on light poles, stop signs or other public property.

Graffiti

After graffiti has been reported, a property owner has 10 days to remove or effectively hide it within 10 days of being notified by the city.

Littering

Dumping litter anywhere other than a container or area lawfully provided is prohibited, whether it’s on private or public property. If litter is thrown or discarded from a vehicle, the operator or owner of the vehicle – or both – is in violation of this ordinance.

Unlisted address

All structures within the city are required to have two visible placements of the physical address numbers – one on the structure and the other on the curb.

Street and sidewalk obstruction

Trees on a property must be at least 8 feet above the street or sidewalk. Also, all shrubbery on the property

must be trimmed and maintained so it doesn’t obstruct the passageway on a street or sidewalk. A public street shouldn’t be used at any time to store landscaping or other materials.

Watering

Effective year-round: • No watering on Mondays • Even numbered addresses water on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays • Odd numbered addresses water on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays Summer rules effective April 1-Sept. 30 • No watering between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. For more information, call 575-528-3549.

HOMES & DESERT LIVING

CODES AND ORDINANCES

Storm drain

It is illegal to put anything but storm water down a storm drain.

Noise

It is unlawful for any person to make, continue or cause to be made any loud or unusual noise which either annoys, disturbs, injures or endangers the comfort, repose, health, peace or safety of others. Violations of this ordinance are evidenced by any noises heard or vibrations felt at a distance of 30 or more feet from the source. For more information, call codes at 575-528-4100.

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HOMES & DESERT LIVING

NEIGHBORHOODS Alameda-Depot Historic District

Location: Alameda Boulevard Schools: Alameda Elementary, Central Elementary, MacArthur Elementary, Picacho Hills Middle and Mayfield High Amenities: Created with the arrival of the railroad in 1881, the historic district sits on 42 blocks in the Pioneer Park area.

High Range

Location: Roadrunner Parkway Schools: Desert Hills Elementary, Camino Real Middle, O単ate High and Centennial High Amenities: An established neighborhood, High Range includes more than 1,000 homes and various subdivisions, and is in proximity to Veterans Memorial Park as well as MountainView Regional Medical Center.

Las Alturas

Location: Las Alturas area Schools: Hillrise Elementary, Tombaugh Elementary, Lynn Middle, Zia Middle, Centennial High and Las Cruces High Amenities: With easy access to New Mexico State University, Interstate 10 and 25, Telshor Boulevard and Memorial Medical Center, those living in Las Alturas can be anywhere in Las Cruces in a matter of minutes.

Mesilla Park

Location: Southwest of town Schools: Mesilla Park Elementary, Zia Middle and Las Cruces High Amenities: Mesilla Park, located near New Mexico State University, is an older community that has its own post office and several churches. Many of the homes in

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this area feature architectural styles common on the East Coast.

Mesquite Street Original Townsite Historic District

Location: Mesquite Street Schools: Washington Elementary, Hermosa Heights Elementary. Central Elementary, Valley View Elementary, Sierra Middle, Lynn Middle, Mayfield High and Las Cruces High Amenities: A historic neighborhood recognized by the city, state and federal government located in the heart of Downtown, the district is filled with adobe homes and a community garden.

Metro Verde

Location: East Mesa Schools: Monte Vista Elementary, Mesa Middle and O単ate High Amenities: Metro Verde homes began to take shape in 2012 . Designed as a green subdivision, Metro Verde is the first in the state to receive National Home Builders Association three-star green certification.

Picacho Hills

Location: Picacho Avenue Schools: Fairacres Elementary, Picacho Middle, Mayfield High Amenities: Set away from the city, residents can enjoy the Picacho Hills Golf Course.

Picacho Mountain

Location: Picacho Avenue Schools: Fairacres Elementary, Picacho Middle, Mayfield High Amenities: Adjacent to Picacho Hills, Picacho Mountain is a master-planned community and the first certified Build Green Community in southern New Mexico.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

The Pueblos at Alameda Ranch

Location: Sonoma Ranch area Schools: Sonoma Elementary, Camino Real Middle, O単ate High Amenities: Gated neighborhoods, town homes, swimming pools, activity trails and tennis courts. It is near U.S. Highway 70, Interstate 25 and MountainView Regional Medical Center.

Raasaf Hills

Location: Mesilla Schools: Mesilla Elementary, Zia Middle and Las Cruces High Amenities: West of the historic town of Mesilla, Raasaf Hills offers residents hilltop views and the comfort of rural living. It is a short distance from the Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park, the Mesilla Plaza and Interstate 10.

Sonoma Ranch

Location: Sonoma Ranch Boulevard Schools: Desert Hills Elementary, Sonoma Elementary, Camino Real Middle, O単ate High and Centennial High Amenities: Sonoma Ranch includes an assortment of single-family houses and condominiums. At the center of the neighborhood is the Sonoma Ranch Golf Course, a championship 18-hole course.

Talavera

Location: Dripping Springs Schools: Hillrise Elementary, Lynn Middle, Centennial High Amenities: Located near the foothills of the Organ Mountains, Talavera offers an escape from big-city living with easy access to New Mexico State University, Interstate 25, Telshor Boulevard and Memorial Medical Center.

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MESILLA

MEET ME ON

Calle de Guadalupe HISTORIC MESILLA ROAD OFFERS NIGHT LIFE, GHOSTS AND DELECTABLES

❚ BY ELVA K. ÖSTERREICH PHOTO BY BILLY HUNTSMAN

The Chocolate Lady, a shop creating candy in Mesilla for the past 30 years, is but one of the many businesses edging the plaza of the town. “We have homemade everything,” said owner Linda Jackson, who has had the little store a mere 18 years. Jackson still loves the town, the customers and the neighborhood, even the ghosts who occasionally put in a (non)appearance at her store. “We meet different people from all over the world,” she said. “There were some from

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Russia last week. Also from Australia, China and Japan. They come for the history, ghosts and Mexican food.” And sometimes, Jackson said, the ghosts from neighboring businesses might ring the bells on the door or play with the paper towel dispenser. Jerry Harrell, manager of the posh Double Eagle on Calle de Guadalupe said the road could soon be considered an entertainment district with restaurants of all kinds on and near the street and places like the historic Fountain Theater opening their doors to visitors. “We have the Double Eagle, Josefina’s Gate,

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

MESILLA

La Posta and many other establishments right on or very close to the street,” Harrell said. “We are working together to bring people in and looking at the latest trends.” Guadalupe Street is one of the main streets of Mesilla, Harrell said. The businesses there are not so much in competition with each other as interested in getting the word out that Mesilla is a great place to be. “All of us are going to get a piece of the pie,” he said. Mesilla and Calle de Guadalupe have an atmosphere all their own. “It just feels different than Las Cruces,” Harrell said. “You just want to slow down. In Las Cruces you walk; in Mesilla you stroll.” A visit to the Double Eagle is a step back into a more elegant time. The classic art has spent time in the past year getting cleaned up and now details have come into view that haven’t been seen for more than 50 years. Chandeliers, antiques and candelabras add to the atmosphere. Harrell said people go in just to check out the rooms at the restaurant. “I tell them ‘The place looks 100 percent

better with a margarita in your hand,’” he said. History is also available at the Double Eagle in book form, where “Mesilla Comes Alive” can be purchased. The book includes a lot of background and photos including area history and is written by Double Eagle owner, C.W. “Buddy” Ritter, and Craig Holden. The Double Eagle ghosts are reported to be star-crossed lovers, murdered by the young man’s mother when she caught him in a compromising position with a family servant and stabbed them with scissors. Today they still haunt the Carlota Salon, sometimes letting patrons and staff know they are there in subtle ways. La Posta de Mesilla just a block to the south of the Double Eagle on Guadalupe, is another restaurant establishment combining an old set of buildings into a place to dine and enjoy margaritas with the benefits of a full bar. It’s also the haunt for another ghost. A “Chinaman” was wrongfully hanged in a yard, once a Butterfield Stage stop, now part of La Posta, the Lava Room. Establishment co-owner Continued on page 126 ❚

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MESILLA

Local Legend

SONNY OF MESILLA IS PROPHET, FRIEND, GREETER ❚ BY ELVA K. ÖSTERREICH

When she first moved to Mesilla, Andrea Schneider used to see Raul “Sonny” Campos riding his bicycle around the town waving to everybody. Then she got to know him better as he would go into her restaurant, Andele, and talk to her, stopping by for coffee and a burrito in the mornings. Now, after knowing Sonny and his family for close to 25 years, she still cherishes that friendship. “He would walk up and down the street giving a peace sign to everybody and saying hello,” Schneider said. “He is a warm soul, an old soul.” She said Sonny has been the welcome wagon of the town. After his family home in the town burned down several years ago, townspeople have taken him under their wings. Sometimes he helps out at the shops where he can. He would water the plants at Andele for a while, then he would move on and sweep the patio at the Bean coffee shop across the street. “He went from a handshake, to a hug, to a kiss on the cheek,” Schneider said of her long friendship with Sonny.

❚ Continued from page 125 Tom Hutchinson said the man was accused of making a pass at a young lady, and hanged for it. Hutchinson said busy season in Mesilla starts with spring break and continues all summer through August. People from El Paso and Mexico flood the area for the history and experience. “We can’t begin to marginalize the effect of our friends down south,” he said. “El Paso is growing closer to us.”

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“Sonny is truly the Spirit of Mesilla — always greeting and thanking, whistling and gardening,” said Chocolate Lady owner Linda Jackson. In the mind of Chris Alexander, aka Ristramnn, who has his Chile Company further down the street, Sonny is official greeter for the business and the town. Now that Sonny, 57, is not seen very often in Mesilla because of health issues, Alexander said people go into the store every day asking about him. “When (Gov. Bill) Richardson was in office, Sonny got more photos than the governor,” Alexander said. “Sonny was the most photographed person in the state. He had 4,500 followers on facebook.” One day, Sonny is sure to return to the town and, if a visitor is lucky, they may be able to glimpse him sauntering down a Mesilla way, stop and shake hands and get their picture taken with the town’s icon. “We’ll be happy to get him back,” Alexander said.

Next to La Posta, at 2469 Calle de Guadalupe, the Fountain Theater offers daily independent, foreign, art and documentary movies. The Fountain too has a ghost, reportedly a woman, perhaps motherly — a madam of a long-past bordello or maybe a frustrated actress. “Visitors will find that Old Mesilla is a perfect blend of the past meeting the present,” said Irene Parra, Mesilla special events coordinator. “Today, Mesilla continues to draw not only for its rich history and culture, but also for the fiestas and annual events.”

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MESILLA

Mesilla TOWN OF

Old Mesilla . . . shop and dine. The rest is history. Find us on Facebook @Old Mesilla

www.mesillanm.gov

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MESILLA

FOUNTAIN THEATRE CONTINUES TO ENTERTAIN IN ITS SECOND CENTURY ❚ BY ZAK HANSEN

Located on Calle de Guadalupe, just a half-block south of the Mesilla Plaza, the Fountain Theatre’s iconic façade still stands as a testament to the town’s founding families. Its 100-year legacy of entertaining the eager residents of the Mesilla Valley continues. To tell the story of the Fountain Theatre, one must tell the story of the Fountain family — or one tiny piece of the Mesilla founding family’s story — which dates back to the 1870s, when Col. Albert Jennings Fountain arrived in the area with his family — five children and brother Edward Jennings, a Shakespearean actor and founder of the Mesilla Dramatic Association circa 1874. In 1905, Albert Jr. purchased the building to stage plays, vaudeville, opera and slide shows, before converting to film in 1912 and redubbing the space Fountain of Pleasure. In 1929, the building was sold to Vicente Guerra, who retrofit the theater to show talking pictures. Guerra held the theater for nine years, until it was bought out of foreclosure by Albert Fountain III, son of the theater’s founder and grandson of the legendary colonel. Since then, the building has remained in the Fountain family. In the middle 1960s, Arthur Fountain took over the building and it became the home

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of the Las Cruces Community Theatre until 1977, when LCCT moved to its current home downtown. That year, Artie Fountain, son of Arthur, began to screen movies at the theater, from time to time lending its use to the New Mexico State University Department of Theatre Arts for its productions. This continued for just more than a decade, when the Mesilla Valley Film Society (MVFS) began renting the space to screen art-house, independent and foreign films. The MVFS continues this mission today as the only art-house or independent theater within a 300-plus-mile radius. Renovations that began in early 2014 by the theater’s owners, Tom and Jerean Hutchinson who own and operate La Posta de Mesilla next door, include a new heating and cooling system; new LED ceiling and track lighting; refinished and stained hardwood floors; a fresh coat of paint on the theater’s ceiling, stage and floor; and painting and tiling of the restrooms. The Hutchinsons also reinstated the sale of beer and wine and funded the painstaking restoration of the theater’s iconic indoor murals, painted by Albert Fountain Jr. himself, which depict scenes of his father’s arrival into the Mesilla Valley.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

Basilica of San Albino Roman Catholic Church 2280 Calle de Principal 575-526-9349 www.sanalbino.org

Billy the Kid Gift Shop/County Courthouse and Jail 2385 Calle de Guadalupe 575-523-5562

Fountain Theatre 2469 Calle de Guadalupe 575-524-8287

Mesilla Plaza Miranda/Bean Building 2171 Calle de Parian

Gadsden Museum 1875 Boutz Road 575-526-6293 www.gadsdenmuseummesilla.com

Reynolds/Chavez/Fountain House 2250 Calle de Picacho

D.C. Frietze Grocery Store 2231 Calle de Parian

Josefina’s Old Gate 2261 Calle de Guadalupe 575-525-2620 www.josefinasgate.com

Double Eagle Restaurant 2355 Calle de Guadalupe 575-523-6700 www.double-eagle-mesilla.com

La Posta de Mesilla 2410 Calle de San Albino 575-524-3524 www.laposta-de-mesilla.com

MESILLA

MESILLA LANDMARKS

Taylor-Barela-Reynolds-Mesilla State Monument 2340-2350 Calle de Principal 575-915-5756 www.ftfm-mesilla-nm.org Mesilla School House/Mesilla Community Center 2251 Calle de Santiago

BASILICA OF SAN ALBINO ❚ BY TRACY ROY PHOTO BY BILLY HUNTSMAN

No matter where you live in Mesilla, you can hear the melodic bells of the Basilica of San Albino ringing out, calling parishioners to Mass. The history of San Albino parish spans more than a century and a half, two countries, four dioceses and four buildings. The first church, completed in 1852 when La Mesilla was part of Mexico, was a sapling-chinked mud structure on the south end of the plaza. In 1857, parishioners completed an adobe fortress-style church — to provide protection from raids — on the north end of the plaza. A single-spire, French-European style church replaced the adobe in 1885. Finally, construction began on the present-day Romanesque church in 1906 and was completed in 1908. When the parish was founded, it was part of the Diocese of Durango, Mexico. Throughout the years, it would also be part of the Diocese of Santa Fe, the Diocese of Arizona and the Diocese of El Paso before becoming part of the newly formed Diocese of Las Cruces in 1982. For its historic and spiritual importance to the people of La Mesilla and southern New Mexico, San Albino was named a minor basilica by Pope Benedict XVI in 2008. There are seven major basilicas in the world. Of the 2,000 minor basilicas in the world, fewer than 100 are in the United States. LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

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MESILLA

Sojourn

GET LOST AT LA UNION CORN MAZE

❚ BY CHRISTOPHE CHINO

A trip to La Union Corn Maze, 1101 Highway 28 in La Union, from Las Cruces or Mesilla is not only fun at the destination, but involves a cruise down the pecan-orchard lined Highway 28 for sight-seeing along the way. For roughly two months out of the year, starting in late September, the La Union Corn Maze hosts a variety of activities that bring family together and creates fun for adults and children alike. Lucy Sondgeroth and her husband, Robert, have owned and operated the maze for the past 17 years, and they try to add something new each year, she said. “We have an array of activities that are friendly for parents and their children and young adults as well,” Lucy Sondgeroth said. “And really that’s why people love to come out here. It’s really a nice place to come to bond with family and friends since there is just so much you can do together.” Activities include a 14-acre corn maze, a pumpkin patch spanning more than 10 acres, a giant slide, target practice with an air gun that shoots tennis balls, and a “sports arena” for basketball, football, and baseball. There is also a “horse-walk swing” for the younger children. Each year, the corn maze is designed in a different pattern, giving repeat visitors a new challenge. Vendors sell food at the maze, and there are several shaded picnic areas. During the week the corn maze is primarily

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used by schools for field trips, but comes alive with young and old during the weekends. “Most people who come spend up to five hours here; there’s just so much to do,” Sondgeroth said. The maze also offers nighttime activities. It’s open 5-10 p.m. Fridays, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturdays and noon-7 p.m. Sundays. The maze hosts special events during its season, such as the Pumpkin Blast, where pumpkins are dropped from the top of a crane, and pig races. Dogs are allowed on the last day of the season. Admission fees differ depending on age and group size. Tickets are $11 for people ages 6 and up, $5 for children ages 2-5, free for children under 2, and $7 for senior citizens. The maze also offers group rates depending on size. For information, visit www.launionmaze. com or call 915-549-1323.

CLOSER TO HOME

Las Cruces is home to its own corn stalk maze, Mesilla Valley Maze, 3855 W. Picacho Ave. It opens in late September each year and includes a corn maze, giant slides, hayrides, children’s activities, special events and more. Admission is $12 per adult, $10 for children 10 and under and free for those younger than 2. Military gets a $2 discount on regular admission. For information, visit www.mesillavalleymaze.com or call 575526-1919.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

Andele Restaurant 1950 Calle del Norte 575-526-9631

Josefina’s Old Gate 2261 Calle de Guadalupe 575-525-2620

Salud de Mesilla 2461 Calle de Principal 575-523-9463

Andele’s Dog House 1983 Calle del Norte 575-526-1271

La Posta de Mesilla 2410 Calle de San Albino 575-524-3524

Spotted Dog Brewery 2920 Avenida de Mesilla 575-650-2729

Café de Mesilla 2190 Avenida de Mesilla 575-524-0000

Luna Rossa Winery 1321 Avenida de Mesilla 575-526-2484

St. Clair Winery & Bistro 1720 Avenida de Mesilla 575-524-2408

Double Eagle Restaurant/ Peppers Café 2355 Calle de Guadalupe 575-523-6700

NM Grille & Bar 1891 Avenida de Mesilla 575-652-4953

Thai Delight 2148 Avenida de Mesilla 575-525-1900

Paisano Café 1740 Calle de Mercado 575-524-0211

The Bean Café of Mesilla 2011 Avenida de Mesilla 575-527-5155

Palacio Bar 2600 La Mesilla Circle 575-525-2910

Vintage Wines 2461 Calle de Principal 575-523-9463

El Patio Cantina 2171 Calle de Parian 575-526-9943 Emilia’s on the Plaza 2290 Calle de Parian 575-652-3007

MESILLA

MESILLA EATERIES AND BARS

MESILLA IN THE 1800S • The river moved: When Mesilla was founded in 1848, the Rio Grande actually flowed between Mesilla and Las Cruces. To travel from Mesilla to Las Cruces required taking a barge, which operated like a modern-day ferry. In 1863, a course change was initiated, leaving Mesilla as an island. Later in the 1870s, a swamp developed and with it, mosquitoes, yellow fever and malaria. More than 50 Mesilla residents died as a result. The river again changed its course in 1885 to its present location. • Gadsden Purchase consummated: On Nov. 16, 1854, the U.S./Mexico Gadsden Purchase treaty was consummated by the raising of the United States flag in the Mesilla Plaza by Fort Fillmore troops. • Butterfield Overland Stage stop: From 1857 to 1861 the Butterfield Overland Stage Line carried mail and passengers between St. Louis, Missouri and San Francisco, California, covering the distance in a harrowing 23 to 25 days. The stage made a stop in Mesilla at the corner of Calle de Guadalupe and Calle de Parian to feed and

shoe horses and offer passengers and driver rest and refreshment. That property is now La Posta de Mesilla. • Part of the Confederacy for a year: In the summer of 1861, Confederate troop commander Lt. Col. John Baylor set up headquarters in Mesilla, raised the Confederate flag and established the name of the Confederacy, calling the area the Territory of Arizona, with Mesilla as its capital. After the Battle of Glorieta in March of 1862, Confederate troops were forced to retreat to Texas, which ended the Civil War conflict in New Mexico.

fights. In the end, nine men were killed and 40 to 50 were wounded. • Outlaw hangout: In the 1880s outlaws such as Dutch Hubert, Nicolas Provencio and Billy the Kid frequented many of the bars and dances in town. It was at the jail and courthouse on the southeast corner of the plaza that Billy the Kid was tried and sentenced to hang in 1881.

• Bloody politics: On Sunday, Aug. 27, 1871 organized members of the Democratic and Republican parties held rallies on the plaza. In the interest of peace, leaders of both parties agreed to meet in different areas, the Democrats on the plaza and the Republicans in front of a nearby residence. But when both parties wanted to close their respective meetings by marching around the plaza, the two processions met on the west side of the plaza. Angry discussions lead to shots being fired and several

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MESILLA

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Noon-5:30 p.m. or by Appointment

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“The Oldest Winery in New Mexico!”

4201 S. Hwy. 28

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Fall Wine Festival Oct 15-16, 2016 Spring Wine Festival April 29-30, 2017 La Union, NM 575-882-7632 www.lavinawinery.com

3 Zin Valle Vineyards 5

Friday-Monday Noon-5pm or by appointment Tue-Thu 7315 Canutillo La Union Road 915-877-4544 • zinvalle.com

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MESILLA

TRY OUR PATIO FOR AN EARLY BREAKFAST!

Let us host & cater your next event at La Sala or on Josefina’s charming patio!

For quality you’ve come to expect.

Call and reserve it, today!

1948 Calle de Santiago ~ 575-523-8747 www.silverassetsonline.com ~ silverassets@live.com Est. in 1989 - locally owned and family-operated

7am-4pm • 7 days a week

2261 Calle de Guadalupe • In the Heart of Mesilla 575-525-2620 • Josefinasoldgate.com

IMPRESSIONS DE MESILLA SOUTHWEST CONTEMPORARY

CLOTHING · JEWELRY · GIFTS

Unique & Affordable clothing & Accessories without boutique prices

2290 Calle de Parian • 522-7847

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On the O h Pl Plaza iin Hi Historic i M Mesilla ill 2355 Calle de Guadalupe • Mesilla

575.647.2115

Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum

Eagle Ranch Mercantile 4100 Dripping Springs Road • Las Cruces

575.522.4100

www.HeartoftheDesert.com

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MESILLA

Located on the Plaza in Mesilla 575-647-9440â&#x20AC;˘ www.juliennejewelry.com Come in and taste the many flavors of our extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars. Experience our gourmet spices, pastas, olives and unique gifts.

2411 Calle de San Albino (across from La Posta) 575-525-3100 â&#x20AC;˘ therusticolivedemesilla.com Tue.-Sun. 11am-5pm â&#x20AC;˘ Closed Mon.

Pi*Pilates Studio (SPVQ 1JMBUFT $MBTT &WFSZ 5VFT 5IVST Q N

We have something for all seasons!

Come Shop! Located at Boutz & Avenida de Mesilla seasonsdemesilla.com 524.3333

2521 Rt. 28 in the Caballero Plaza of Old Mesilla â&#x20AC;˘ 575-526-0977 www.pilatesbyellen.com

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HEALTH & WELL-BEING

DIGITAL CADAVER

LETS STUDENTS VISUALIZE ANATOMY

❚ BY ELVA K. ÖSTERREICH

The folks at Anatomage took a frozen cadaver, sliced it thin and scanned the slices into their machine. Then they did it again and again, finally creating digital versions of human beings good enough to study for students at all levels of their human anatomy learning. At Arrowhead Park Medical Academy (APMA), a public charter school in Las Cruces for high school students interested in medical fields, the digital cadaver provides teacher Kris Vaudrey an opportunity not only to teach effectively but to inspire

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imaginations. The “skin” on the digital bodies, one male and one female, is an animated drawing so it doesn’t resemble real people, but what is under the skin is the real deal from adipose tissue (fat), to the skeleton in a variety of choices – opaque hard tissue, transparent hard tissue, X-ray or transparent soft tissue. And those are just the choices for viewing the skeleton. As an example, Vaudrey pulls up an image of the kidneys. They float there on the table, just waiting for somebody to further explore. Then he can touch the

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

digital scalpel, draw a line through one of the kidneys and turn it on the touch screen to examine what is inside. The image can be enlarged, moved and adjusted by the touch of a finger or three. “It’s basically a massive computer with a huge graphics card,” Vaudrey said. All his classes, from basic freshman levels to accelerated learning anatomy, can learn from the table. And the images from the table can be digitally viewed from anywhere on campus, Vaudrey Continued on page 138 ❚

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HEALTH & WELL-BEING

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❚ Continued from page 137 said. And he doesn’t have to be at the table itself to manipulate the images; he can do it on a big screen in front of the students. According to the Anatomage website, “The Anatomage Table is the most technologically advanced anatomy visualization system for anatomy education and is being adopted by many of the world’s leading medical schools and institutions.” The table plays right into the mission of the whole school, Vaudrey said. “The goal is to expose students to all the different options,” he said. “There are so many pathways for them – nursing, pre-med, physical therapy. Some of our students will go on to DACC (Doña Ana Community College) to become certified nursing assistants or get two-year certificates as radiography techs.” Basically, Vaudrey said, the mission is to graduate students into medical fields, who will stick around in the community. For information about APMA, 3600 Arrowhead Drive, call 575-527-9540.

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

SANITARIUM WAS ONE OF TOP THREE IN 1891

❚ BY MARISSA BOND

Now a popular hiking destination, Dripping Springs Natural Area was once a tuberculosis sanitarium. In 1891, the American Health Resort Association named Las Cruces one of the three best spots in the United States for tuberculosis care. Patients arriving in Las Cruces would often go to Dripping Springs Resort, nestled high in the Organ Mountains. The resort was originally Van Patten’s Mountain Camp, a resort built in the 1870s by Col. Eugene Van Patten, hosting famous

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

Sojourn

guests such as Pat Garrett and Pancho Villa. In 1904, Van Patten entered into a verbal agreement with Dr. Nathan Boyd, a physician from San Francisco, to rent some of his land for use as a tuberculosis sanitarium. Van Patten built structures to house and care for the patients under Boyd’s care. The caretaker’s house and dining hall and kitchen still stand today, but in precarious states of disrepair. Dripping Springs is 10 miles east of Las Cruces, on the west side of the Organ Mountains.

Setting the Standard for Psychiatric & Addiction Services Mesilla Valley Hospital offers specialized mental health and addiction treatment for adolescents and adults in a safe and respectful environment. • Acute Psychiatric Care for Adolescents & Adults • Adult Addiction Recovery Center • Adolescent Residential Treatment Center • Journey to Recovery Day Treatment for Adults We are available 24/7 and accept walk-ins anytime! TRICARE®, Medicare, NM Medicaid and most insurance plans accepted for treatment. TRICARE® is a registered trademark of the Department of Defense. Defense Health Agency. All rights reserved.

IF YOU OR A LOVED ONE NEEDS HELP, PLEASE CALL:

575.382.3500

3751 DEL REY BLVD • LAS CRUCES, NM 88012 LAS CRU CE S BU LLETIN | L I FE I S GO O D I N L A S C RU C ES 2016 -2017 CO M M U NI T Y GU I D E

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HEALTH & WELL-BEING

MAJOR HEALTHCARE FACILITIES 1. Advanced Care Hospital of Southern New Mexico

4. Mesilla Valley Hospice

2. Memorial Medical Center

5. MountainView Regional Medical Center

7. Ben Archer Health Center (a) 1600 Thorpe Road 575-382-9292 (b) 998 Motel Blvd. 575-541-5941 With seven clinics throughout southern New Mexico, the mission of the Ben Archer Health Center is to “improve the health status of its population through the prevention of illness, the promotion of health education, the provision of quality primary care, access to the underserved and strong commitment to chronic disease and pain management.”

299 W. Montana Ave. 575-525-5757 Opened in 1982, Mesilla Valley Hospice is the only freestanding hospice house in New Mexico and services Doña Ana County. The facility has seen a number of additions over the years, including a recent $6 million expansion.

2450 S. Telshor Blvd. 575-522-8641 The city’s oldest hospital, Memorial Medical Center has been providing care in southern New Mexico for more than 50 years and offers everything from surgical to behavioral health services.

4311 E. Lohman Ave. 575-556-7600 Opened in August 2002, MountainView Regional Medical Center offers fully staffed, 24-hour emergency care, a heart center, women’s center and comprehensive intensive care services.

3. Mesilla Valley Hospital

8. La Clinica de Familia

(a) 385 Calle de Alegra 575-526-1105 (b) 8600 Bataan Memorial East 575-373-9202 In a state with the second-highest rate of uninsured people in the nation, La Clinica de Familia (LCDF) has been helping the residents of southern New Mexico gain access to health care services for more than 30 years. Two primary Las Cruces clinics – listed above – and others in Doña Ana County combine to serve 26,000 residents. LCDF provides primary care for patients from the womb to old age.

6. Rehabilitation Hospital of Southern New Mexico

3751 Del Rey Blvd. 575-382-3500 Mesilla Valley Hospital is a 124-bed freestanding psychiatric facility that offers a wide range of behavioral health care services for children, adolescents, adults and seniors throughout southern New Mexico.

DEL REY

4441 E. Lohman Ave. 575-521-6400 Recognized in the top 10 percent of inpatient rehabilitation facilities in the country for the fifth year in a row, the Rehabilitation Hospital of Southern New Mexico provides patients from throughout southern New Mexico with recovery from traumatic events TAYLOR RD.

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4451 E. Lohman Ave. 575-521-6400 The Advanced Care Hospital of Southern New Mexico opened in 2008, offering care for patients who need more time to recover than offered in a traditional hospital setting.

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HOSPITALS LOOK TO EXPAND

JO R

❚ BY CHRISTOPHE CHINO

MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER (MMC) During the past year, MMC, 2450 S. Telshor Blvd., has expanded its physician staff and has bumped up the caliber of technology used at the hospital. It added 31 new physicians to its staff, 14 in the primary-care physician sector of the hospital. The remaining physicians were additions to various departments, ranging from general surgery to gastrointestinal disease and pediatrics, including the first colorectal surgeon in the region. The hospital welcomed Dr. David Leachman to its staff as the new director of anesthesiology. In 2015, MMC added a new post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). The first free-standing Wound Care Center in the area, operated by the hospital, earned a “Center of Distinction” award for continuous exceptional patient outcomes. Its imaging center also installed new advanced nuclear medicine and digital x-ray imaging systems as well as a high-tech breast biopsy system. Anita Rockett, MMC’s marketing director, stated that along with its additions to staff and technology, the hospital has left a monetary mark on the Las Cruces community as well. Rockett said that 2016 is expected to look a lot like 2015, with expansion and community outreach a focus of the agenda. “We are expanding our outpatient footprint in order to make healthcare convenient for our community,” she said. “New facilities will be opening up in and around Las Cruces and the surrounding communities. We are currently in progress with a new center at the corner of (U.S.) 70 and Sonoma Ranch Boulevard which we expect to open this summer.”

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

Looking Ahead

The hospital is conducting a remodeling project for the next two years, which Rockett said will improve several floors, waiting rooms and lobby areas. MOUTAINVIEW REGIONAL With 20 new doctors and a completed expansion project, MountainView Regional Medical Center, 4311 E. Lohman Ave., made 2015 a year of success, and is looking to spend 2016 the same way. “In 2017, we’ll celebrate our 15th year of serving the community,” MountainView’s CEO Denton Park said. “As the community and the region grows, we’ll also continue to grow and expand our services to meet the rising demand.” The hospital recently opened its second urgent care location, 3485 E. Northrise Drive. The hospital’s emergency department is also due to have a completed expansion by July 2016 — more than doubling the department’s capacity, from 10 to 22 beds. “Over the past five years, our talented doctors, nurses and staff have earned a reputation for quality emergency care that has led to over 40 percent growth in the number of patients who choose our ER,” Park said. Park lauded the hospital’s “Senior Circle” program as another expanding initiative. He said the program aims to provide several services including fitness, health education and social activities for Las Cruces’ senior citizens. MountainView will open the first freestanding emergency department in the state. The facility will function the same as an ER, Park said, with labs, x-ray, computerized tomography (CT) and a full staff of nurses and doctors.

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SPIRITUALITY

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L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

SPIRITUALITY

‘WE’RE A BIG TENT’ UNITARIAN-UNIVERSALIST CHURCH OPEN TO ALL

❚ BY BROOK STOCKBERGER PHOTOS BY CHRISTOPHER BELARDE

Many churches strive to be inclusive. Some succeed while others may believe they have work to do on that particular front. The Rev. Suzanne Redfern-Campbell believes her church has reached a, well, sort-of Nirvana when it comes to such a situation. In fact, if you believe in Nirvana, or Heaven, or Valhalla or any other form of afterlife – or even no afterlife at all – you are still welcome to join the Unitarian Universalist Church of Las Cruces. “We have Christian believers here and we have pagans,” Redfern-Campbell said. “We’re a big tent.” There is no pressure to follow any particular dogma. “There’s no set worship,” Redfern-Campbell said. The church’s website espouses, “Our interest is in deeds, not creeds.” Located at 2000 S. Solano Drive, the UU Church of Las Cruces has about 200 members and holds services at 9 and 10:30 a.m. on Sundays.

‘BREATH OF FRESH AIR’ Congregant Jan Thompson admits she is somewhat of an anomaly, because she is a third-generation Unitarian Universalist. “Most people find Unitarian Universalism as an adult and find it to be a Continued on page 144 ❚

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SPIRITUALITY

❚ Continued from page 143 breath of fresh air from what they experienced in other religions where they had to attest to particular statements of faith,” Thompson said. “Sincere doubts and diverse beliefs are welcome in the UU church, where one of our seven core principles is ‘A free and responsible search for truth and meaning.’” Elisa Sanchez never planned to join, but visited the UU Church of Las Cruces as a courtesy to friends who were longtime members. “I was not sure what to expect but was pleasantly surprised to find a home,” Sanchez said. “I have been an activist and feminist for civil rights all of my life and the UU’s seven principles resonated with my values and belief system.” She believes if more people would give the church a chance, they’d find a home, too. “I am sure that if people who care about creating a quality of life for all were aware of the principles they would, in a minute, become (Unitarian Universalists),” Sanchez said. Redfern-Campbell said they often say the church is made up of people of many beliefs, bound together and believing in the “intrinsic worth and dignity of every person.”

A JOURNEY The religion points out on its website, www. uua.org, that UUA has no shared creed. “We do not have to check our personal background and beliefs at the door: we join together on a journey that honors everywhere we’ve been before,” the statement reads. The group as a whole creates “a force more powerful than one person or belief system.”

FYI/UUs in Las Cruces What: The Unitarian Universalist Church of Las Cruces Where: 2000 S. Solano Drive Who: Rev. Suzanne RedfernCampbell When: Services at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. on Sundays.; office hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday to Friday. Phone: 575-522-7281

GENESIS

The Las Cruces church celebrated its 60th anniversary last year. Famed astronomer Clyde Tombaugh, who discovered Pluto, helped start the congregation in 1955. What is today known as Unitarian Universalism formed as result of a 1961 merger between the Universalist Church of America and the American Unitarian Association; Thus the Unitarian Universalist Association was formed. People from a variety of religious traditions walk through the door. Some worshippers consider themselves Christians and some Unitarian Universalist congregations retain some Christian worship structures and traditions, such as Sunday worship with a sermon and the singing of hymns. But each congregation decides how its worship services will be performed.

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FYI/ 7 Core Principles 1. The inherent worth and dignity of every person 2. Justice, equity and compassion in human relations 3. Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations. 4. A free and responsible search for truth and meaning 5. The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large 6. The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all 7. Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

SPIRITUALITY

Roman Catholic Diocese of Las Cruces

Come home

to the Catholic Church Las Cruces area Catholic Parishes •

Holy Cross, Las Cruces

•

Cathedral of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Las Cruces

•

St. Genevieve’s, Las Cruces

•

Our Lady of Health, Las Cruces

•

St. Albert the Great Newman Center, Las Cruces

•

Santa Rosa de Lima, Las Cruces

•

Basilica of San Albino, Mesilla

•

Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mesilla Park

www.dioceseoflascruces.org

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SPIRITUALITY

Sojourn

CHURCH CAMPS OFFER FUN, FAITH AND FRIENDSHIP

❚ BY BROOK STOCKBERGER PHOTOS BY TRACY ROY

Ah, summer. Popsicles, baseball games, swimming pools and sunscreen reign. Many parents are on the lookout for constructive environments for their children to spend time in, primarily in the summer. Churches want to help, thus church camps — or vacation Bible school — draw children of various ages and religions and denominations. “I like that I know they are safe and having fun and learning about God,” Lynn Garcia said of her children, 11 and 8. Lee Chavez said she hasn’t participated in church camps in Las Cruces, but as a youth in Houston she attended Bible schools and worked as a volunteer as a teen. She plans to sign her 6-year-old son, Felix, for a camp. Not all church camps are free, but many do welcome youths for no charge. Each June, Peace Lutheran Church at the corner of Missouri Avenue and Locust Street holds a week-long vacation Bible school. In 2016, the theme was Surf Shack for children pre-K through fifth grade. Laura Carson, associate in ministry with Peace Lutheran, said a vacation Bible school is beneficial for volunteers and attendees. “VBS is a short-term ministry that allows for children in the community to have fun learning about God in a unique setting,” Carson said. She said her church’s summer camp is not a recruiting tool.

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Cornerstone Baptist Church, 5301 Cortez Drive, holds a free, week-long event every summer. Some campers take a trip out of town. Mesilla Park Community Church held a camp called “Rooted’ in June 2016 in Cloudcroft this year that offered “renewal in the mountains.” First Baptist of Las Cruces spent some time in Capitan, New Mexico at a camp dubbed “Fort Lone Tree” for participants ages 8 to 12. Not all religious organizations keep camps tied to faith-based activities. Mesilla Valley Christian Schools offers what it calls “Maker Mania Monday” with classes focused on science, technology, engineering, art and math.

FYI/Finding a camp Las Cruces has 129 listings on www. yellowpages.com for the category of “Church.” Here is a sampling of a few: Peace Lutheran Church, 575-522-7119 First Baptist, 575-524-3691 Mesilla Park Community Church, 575-5247658 Saint James Episcopal Church, 575-5262389 Cornerstone Baptist Church, 575-5320902 Calvary Baptist Church, 575-522-7900 Diocese of Las Cruces, 575-523-7577

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

BISHOP FINDS RETIREMENT ENRICHING AND BUSY

❚ BY BROOK STOCKBERGER

One day, out of the blue, Rico wandered into the bishop’s backyard. “He was a keeper,” Bishop Emeritus Ricardo Ramírez said as he sat at his dining room table and patted his appreciative dog. “We checked and there was no chip, no tags,” Ramírez said. The man who served as the first bishop of the Diocese of Las Cruces for more than 30 years thinks his four-legged buddy is part Chihuahua, part cocker spaniel, but he is not sure. “He’s a mix, a mutt like most of us,” he said. There was a point to be made: Your background does not matter, you still deserve love. And if you are in need, an outstretched hand is appreciated.

‘APPRECIATE TIME’ Ramírez, 79, has been retired since January 2013. He became the first bishop of the new Las Cruces diocese in 1982. He admits he was afraid retirement could be boring. He has found it to be anything but. “My retirement has been very fruitful and enriching,” Ramírez said. “I’ve been called on to do funerals a lot. It helps me to do a lot of thinking about my end, and prepare for it.” In fact a serious health scare in 2015 led to a pair of surgeries. “I’m learning to appreciate time more,” he said. Ramírez said time was created by God along with the universe and humans have so little time on Earth when compared to the universe. “Don’t waste time,” he said. “I still do; we

SPIRITUALITY

Local Legend

all do. But as a whole, use time well.” Ramírez has been known to check out football and baseball games. Originally from Bay City, Texas, he has a soft spot for the Astros and the Texans. He likes to read, travel, plan events and entertain over the grill in his backyard.

‘POWER FROM THE MARGINS’ Ramírez, who still performs Mass most weeks and travels to speak with groups and participate in retreats, found himself laid up due to his illness. During his convalescence he wrote a book. Titled “Power from the Margins, The Emergence of Latinos in Church and Society,” Ramírez said he expects the be published in the summer of 2016. The project had been on his mind for quite some time, but the rigors of being a bishop always got in the way. His illness was the time he was given to finally put words to paper. “Writing a book is hard,” he said. “I admire writers. It’s a skill you hone.”

STATE OF THE CHURCH Ramírez is pleased with leadership of the Diocese of Las Cruces and the Catholic Church as a whole. Bishop Oscar Cantú replaced Ramírez at the helm of the diocese in 2013. “I’m so happy with his style and pastoral manner,” Ramírez said. “He is kind and patient. He brings a richness of talent to the diocese.” “Pope Francis is a breath of fresh air,” Ramírez said. “He’s gentle and kind and happy. But he can challenge (people). He can get angry, just as Jesus got angry.”

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WORSHIP in Las Cruces Disciples of Christ and United Church of Christ

FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH An Open and Affirming Church, working in our Community for Civil, Human and Religious Rights in the name of Jesus the Christ.

Sunday Worship 10:15 am www.FirstChristianLC.org 1809 El Paseo 524-3245

First Presbyterian Church Experience the Grace of God Sunday School 9am English, Spanish, Korean Worship 10:30am Contemporary Worship 8:45 am (during school year) Transportation & Childcare Available 5 2 6- 5 5 5 9 200 E. Boutz • Las Cruces, NM • www.fpc.lc

WellSpring

A New Thought Center

Teaching 21st centur y spirituality

www.stjameslascruces.org

Healing Hearts..Opening Minds Rev Dr. Carol Carnes Sunday Event 11:00 am Columbus Conference Center Las Cruces 901 Avenida de Mesilla www.wellspringnow.com

Temple Beth El of Las Cruces welcomes all to our weekly and holiday services, adult education classes, religious school and cultural events. We belong to the Union of Reform Judaism. For more information; you can find our monthly newsletter, Adelante, on our website www.tbelc.org, you can call the Temple Office at 575 524-3380 or you can find us on Facebook. Rabbi Lawrence P. Karol

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SPIRITUALITY

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HOME BY GL GREEN. PHOTO BY DONICIO MADRID.

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MENU GUIDE

NEW MEXICO

Cuisine ❚ BY CHRISTOPHE CHINO

There’s a certain pride carried by residents when it comes to New Mexican cuisine. For those who are visiting the area, there may be a desire to try it out, but for those who live in the Southwest, it’s more than a food choice; it’s a lifestyle. “New Mexican food is really different from the type of foods offered in our bordering states. It really depends on the local chiles for the taste. We don’t doctor it up with tons of ingredients,” said Tom Hutchinson, owner of La Posta de Mesilla Restaurant, 2410 Calle de San Albino.

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IS IN A LEAGUE OF ITS OWN

La Posta is located on the historic Old Mesilla plaza, giving those who come to eat access to the numerous shops and historical highlights of the area. Much like the culture in the Southwest, there is a inviting feel inside the restaurant. La Posta offers a diverse lunch and dinner menu, with breakfast on the weekends. Like La Posta, ¡Andele! Restaurant is also in Mesilla, 1950 Calle del Norte, and is a revered destination for visitors as well as longtime Las Crucens. “Andeles,” as it is often called, comes in two parts — the main location, and

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

Continued on page 160 ❚

25% OFF WITH STUDENT ID

10 p.m. - 6 a.m. 2900 N. Telshor location only

MENU GUIDE

MIDNIGHT MADNESS

ALL COLLEGE STUDENTS

Breakfast Combos • Hearty Omelettes • World Famous Pancakes • French Toast & Waffle

SENIORS Buy 1 Dinnerr Get 2nd FREEE

From 3 p.m. - 10 p.m. at listed locations ns

Burgers • Sandwicches • Classic Dinners • Deliicious Desse ert rtss IHOP 3330 1413 S. White Sands Alamogordo, NM 88310 575-443-1260

IHOP 1443 2900 N. Telshor Las Cruces, NM 88011 575-522-8240

IHOP 3454 813 E. Pine St. Deming, NM 88030 575-544-9903

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High Desert Brewing Co. 120 Hadley Ave

155

Hooters 3530 Foothills Rd., #D

151

IHOP 1413 S. White Sands 2900 N. Telshor Blvd. 813 E. Pine St.

160

International Delight Café 1245 El Paseo Rd.

158

Launch Pad Café 700 S. Telshor Blvd.

159

Le Rendez-vous Café 2701 W. Picacho Ave. #1

154

Let Them Eat Cake 1001 E. University Ave.

157

Main Street Bistro 139 N. Main St.

154

Mountain View Market 1600 El Paseo Rd.

156

NM Grille & Bar 1891 Avenida de Mesilla

159

Sapphire Bar & Grill 201 E. University Ave.

158

Renoo's Thai Restaurant 1445 W Picacho Ave

L IF E IS GO O D IN LA S C RUCE S 2016 -2017 COMM UNIT Y GUIDE | LAS CRU CE S BU L L ETI N

Vegetarian Catering

Entertainment Credit Cards Checks WiFi Reservations

Patio Dining

Full Bar Delivery PickUp/Takeout

Beer & Wine

Sunday Brunch

No. of Locations

161

Restaurant

Lunch Dinner

Map

Breakfast

Ad Page

MENU GUIDE

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