El Paso Local Pulse

Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Friday, November seventh. We start our day under partly cloudy skies with temperatures climbing to the mid seventies, a gentle breeze in the afternoon, and no rain expected. These mild conditions should make for a perfect Friday to get outdoors or enjoy local events around town.

We have several major developments this morning. El Paso Water officials confirm they detected E. coli in a raw groundwater sample from a well in East El Paso, but they assure us the water that reaches our taps remains safe, as this well is not currently in the city’s supply system. Residents are being reassured, but if you have specific concerns, El Paso Water customer service is open for questions.

City Hall has been bustling with activity this week as the City Council moved to purchase properties at 311 and 315 West Overland Avenue for close to nine hundred thousand dollars, paving the way for downtown expansion planning. Changes are also happening for homeowners, as council directed staff to extend payment periods for weed abatement fines, giving property owners more time before liens are placed on their properties. In a decision sure to excite downtown shoppers, city leaders announced they’ll offer free parking north of I-10 on November twenty-second for WinterFest, so mark your calendars.

WinterFest itself is set to light up San Jacinto Plaza starting next weekend, signaling the arrival of the holiday season with music, food, and festive lights. On the business front, L and F Distributors just cut the ribbon on a massive new two hundred twenty-five thousand-square-foot warehouse, promising new jobs and expanded distribution capacity in the region.

The job market brings mostly steady, if cautious, news. Openings have risen about three percent over October, driven by logistics and warehouse work with seasonal boosts in retail. Meanwhile, the real estate market continues to show modest growth, with home prices in the city averaging around two hundred sixty thousand dollars and an uptick in short-term rental activity discussed at this week’s council meeting. Officials highlighted safety and community concerns as part of ongoing regulation updates.

In sports, UTEP’s men’s basketball team came off a big win at home this week and returns to the Don Haskins Center tomorrow night. On the high school scene, Franklin High clinched their playoff football bid, earning a spot in next week’s city semifinals. Over at the San Jacinto Adult Learning Center, local students celebrated a milestone as more than a hundred adults received English proficiency certificates, marking a positive step for community education.

For community events, the Paso del Norte Health Foundation terrace dedication yesterday at UTEP brought together leaders and residents to highlight ongoing investments in public health and wellness. And a big thank you goes out to our local bikers who gathered at Scenic Drive this past weekend for a charity ride that raise

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Thursday, November 6, 2025. We begin today with breaking news and a story that’s brought heartbreak and reflection to our community. In Central El Paso, a deadly hit-and-run along Pershing Drive near Coldwell Elementary took the life of TSA employee David O’Connor. In a remarkable act of conscience, the father of 19-year-old Vivian Padilla personally brought her to police headquarters, telling officers she was the one who hit David. Investigators say the car parts matched Padilla’s vehicle, and police believe she was on her phone during and after the crash. Padilla was released Tuesday after posting bond. David’s family remembers him as a quiet, humble soul, recently settled down and passionate about caring for turtles. His loss is deeply felt by all of us.

Moving from city streets to City Hall, big decisions are stirring in El Paso over our monthly bills. The Texas Gas Service is proposing a 27 percent jump in residential rates, prompting concern from city officials who fear this could unfairly burden our community. That’s because the plan merges El Paso’s rates with other Texas regions, potentially making us pay more than our share. Our City Council has responded by launching a series of public meetings to let us voice our concerns directly to gas service representatives. These meetings start Monday at City Hall and West Side Regional Command, then move around El Paso through November 13. A public hearing is scheduled for November 17 on North Campbell Street. We encourage everyone to get informed and attend if you want your voice heard.

Turning to the job market and local business scene, we’re still seeing a steady demand for jobs across customer service and logistics, especially downtown and in the rapidly growing Mission Valley. Real estate activity has been stable, with around one hundred properties listed this week and average home prices near 270 thousand dollars. New businesses are springing up near Zaragoza and along the Gateway, with several local coffee shops and a new fitness studio opening soon. At the same time, a handful of small eateries on Alameda have closed their doors, citing a tough market and rising supply costs.

On the community front, Socorro School District’s Proposition A—a plan to shift funds and maintain teacher salaries without raising taxes—was rejected by voters, with 53 percent voting against. District leaders are reconsidering their budget and may need to adjust employee health plans. Meanwhile, local high school football teams posted solid wins last weekend, and Franklin High’s robotics team just took home a regional prize—congratulations to those students.

Art lovers will notice a striking new mural honoring Charlie Kirk now displayed across from Bassett Place. Painted on Gun Central at Gateway Boulevard East, the mural pays tribute to Kirk’s activism and support of Second Amendment rights after his tragic assassination in September. It's become a spot for conver

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Sunday, November second. We hope you remembered to turn your clocks back—today marks the end of daylight saving time. As we adjust to a new rhythm with early sunsets, local health leaders like Celeste Nevarez at Emergence Health Network advise us to watch for the effects of shorter days on mood and energy. Taking short sunny walks, staying hydrated, and aiming for a good night’s sleep can help those of us feeling a little off after the change. We know the time shift can take a week or two to sink in.

Weather-wise, skies over El Paso start out partly cloudy, warming quickly. We can expect afternoon highs in the mid-seventies, making it ideal for outdoor plans from playgrounds to walks along Scenic Drive. No rain in the forecast, but keep an eye out for gusty winds later this afternoon.

Turning to breaking news, UTEP Miners basketball tips off their season at the Don Haskins Center today against Prairie View A and M. After a tough eleven-win season last year, our Miners look to build some momentum with a fresh start at home. For listeners, first tip-off is this afternoon—tickets still available at the box office.

Now, city hall updates. The big topic: tomorrow’s constitutional amendment election. Proposition highlights include new water funding, changes to bail rules for felony offenses, exemptions for homesteads, and support for technical colleges. El Pasoans living along the border may see new tax relief connected to security infrastructure. Polling stations open at seven AM. Remember to bring government-issued ID.

In local business, downtown sees new activity this month with the opening of Border Brew off Texas Avenue, bringing a wave of craft coffee and community events. Meanwhile, the Zaragoza Crossing shopping center prepares for a grand re-opening next week, featuring three new small retailers. But it isn’t all growth—Sunshine Pharmacy on Montana Avenue closes its doors this Friday after fifty years of service. Their team says all records and prescriptions are transferred.

The job market remains steady, although some federal workers here face a decision today whether to accept buyouts as uncertainty grows over national aid budgets, according to KFOX. Around four hundred El Paso-based employees could be affected by these changes, so it’s something we keep a close eye on.

For real estate, average home prices in central El Paso hold at nearly two hundred fifty thousand dollars. Rental rates rose slightly, up three percent since last month, driven by strong seasonal demand near UTEP and Fort Bliss.

Quick sports highlights—Del Valle High’s football team clinched their playoff spot last night with a dramatic win at Veterans Stadium, and Franklin High’s girls volleyball squad advanced to regionals. We’re proud of our student athletes showing grit on and off the field.

On the crime front, the El Paso Police Department reported a quiet Saturday night with one major incident near Alameda and Copia,

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Saturday, November first. As we step into a fresh November weekend together, we wake up to a mild autumn chill. Temperatures hover near fifty degrees downtown, with clear skies expected all day and a high reaching into the lower seventies. So, we can look forward to pleasant conditions whether you’re heading out to a community event or just enjoying a morning stroll along Scenic Drive.

One of the big stories shaping our weekend is the last day for early voting in El Paso County before the November elections. Local election officials report only about sixteen thousand ballots have been cast so far, a turnout of barely three percent of registered voters. Folks, if you haven’t voted yet, you can still swing by a nearby polling station—Bassett Place, Marty Robbins Rec Center, and the YWCA West are gearing up for a final-day surge. Remember, these elections matter for both state propositions and local races, including several school district measures, and spots in places like Clint, Socorro, and Tornillo. Voters are asked to bring a Texas driver’s license or passport, and if you want to save time inside, print a sample ballot before heading out since phones aren’t allowed in polling locations.

At city hall, our council is focusing on budget allocations for improving road safety along Mesa Street and exploring options to support community-based food security efforts. With the ongoing strain from the federal SNAP benefits delay, local food pantries continue to experience high demand, and community leaders urge us to help by donating or volunteering when possible.

In local business news, there’s a new bakery opening up on Cincinnati Avenue, bringing jobs and fresh flavors just in time for the holiday season. Meanwhile, a family-owned grocery store at the corner of Alameda and Raynolds closes its doors today after nearly thirty years, citing rising costs and competition from larger chains.

For culture lovers, the Dia de los Muertos festivities kick off this morning at the El Paso Museum of Art, right on Oregon Street. From eleven until six, families can join an alebrije workshop or take photos with giant calacas. These bright, playful creatures and decorations are part of the celebration that connects us with the rich traditions of our region.

On the sports front, Ysleta High School volleyball delivered a shutout win against Bowie, and Riverside edged out Young Women’s STEAM Academy three games to two. Anthony High saw their playoff hopes dashed in a close loss to Odessa, but Fabens pulled ahead over Irvin, keeping their postseason dreams alive.

Looking at real estate, inventory remains tight in popular west side neighborhoods, and average home prices this week are hovering around two hundred ten thousand dollars, with brisk competition for properties near Coronado High and UTEP.

This week, crime remains relatively quiet downtown, though officers responded to a burglary on Pershing Drive early this morn

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Friday, October 31, 2025.

It’s a brisk Halloween morning across El Paso, with clouds hugging the Franklin Mountains and temps hovering in the low 50s at sunrise. We’re expecting a high near 74 this afternoon, dropping into the 60s tonight just in time for trick-or-treating. The forecast calls for light winds, so parents can feel good letting the little ones roam for candy, as long as they bundle up a bit.

Turning to the headlines, we have breaking news this morning as Texas Department of Public Safety and Homeland Security Investigations announce multiple arrests after busting a human trafficking network right here in El Paso. Local attorney Mario Ortiz Saroldi is among nine arrested, accused of soliciting prostitution and playing a role in a ring that allegedly forced Cuban women into sex work across West Texas. Two other El Pasoans face aggravated promotion and drug charges. Authorities say the investigation continues, and urge anyone with tips to contact law enforcement.

There was a scare for several families near Alameda at Zaragoza late last night when fire crews responded to a home eviction gone wrong. Neighbors reported years of neglect at the property and city officials on site pledged to review code enforcement policies to prevent future incidents like this. The incident highlights concerns about affordable housing and safety in older neighborhoods.

On a positive note, our job market remains strong. There are over 2,200 part-time job openings in El Paso right now, with opportunities ranging from tutoring at $18 to $40 an hour, to positions at local markets and restaurants. Warehouse and manufacturing jobs are also plentiful, with hourly wages up to 18 dollars. Remote and flexible roles are growing, making it easier for families to find work that fits their lives. For those looking at real estate, entry-level agents can now earn upwards of 40,000 dollars a year, and the inventory of homes is steady, keeping prices accessible for first-time buyers.

At city hall, the council faced a setback after failing to move forward with a proposed partnership with TSA and the FAA aimed at improving long checkpoint lines at the airport. Leaders promise to revisit the issue soon, as airport traffic continues to surge with fall travel picking up.

New business is perking up again in the Cielo Vista area, as El Pollo Loco has fired up the grill at its new Airway Boulevard spot. Meanwhile, Whole Foods and national chains are posting for dozens of part-time and seasonal hires, adding energy to the retail scene as the holidays approach.

Turning to culture and events, Dia de los Muertos celebrations are lighting up the city. The Mexican American Cultural Center is hosting an expanded altar display and music at Cleveland Square, while local schools prepare colorful ofrendas and parades. Halloween carnivals run today at recreation centers including Armijo and Marty Robbins, offering a safe space for spooky fun

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Thursday, October 30, 2025.

We wake up today to big legal developments rocking our legal and law enforcement community. The Texas Department of Public Safety and Homeland Security have wrapped up a year-long investigation, arresting nine people, including a local attorney, for involvement in a human trafficking ring right here in El Paso County. Authorities say an international operation ran victims from Cuba into the city, forcing them into prostitution to pay debts. The attorney, Mario Ortiz Saroldi, is now booked in the El Paso County Jail charged with solicitation of prostitution. Two others, Yasiel Rodriguez-Amaro and Katherine Ventura-Amaro, also face charges involving aggravated promotion and possession of a controlled substance. The law enforcement community stresses the importance of ongoing vigilance and community reporting to help stop human trafficking.

In other courtroom news, the city and our police department scored a win as a judge dismissed a lawsuit brought by two former supervisors who alleged wrongful termination after sexual harassment allegations. The judge found their claims weren’t supported by evidence, with city attorney Karla Nieman saying this reaffirms the city’s commitment to fair process and accountability. The terminated officers, John Surface and Adan Chavez, were previously arrested on charges of official oppression. Chief Peter Pacillas emphasized the ruling as a reminder that misconduct won’t be tolerated within the department.

Turning to City Hall, El Paso leadership rolled out its updated five-year Capital Improvement Plan, laying out one hundred eighty million dollars in infrastructure projects through 2030. On the northeast side, we’re seeing the extension of Sean Haggerty Drive from Nathan Bay to Dyer, adding a new four-lane bridge and bike lanes, with work set to wrap by spring 2027. Over on North Yarbrough Drive, a five point six million dollar safety overhaul is in planning—the city’s aiming to make what’s currently one of our most crash-prone roads safer for everyone.

Weatherwise, we’re starting today with clear skies and mild temperatures. We expect highs to reach the low 80s, with a light breeze out of the west. This is perfect weather if you’re heading out to community events or spending time outdoors, and the forecast holds steady through the weekend.

In business news, Aurora Innovation has officially launched its commercial autonomous trucking route connecting Fort Worth to El Paso. This is only their second route nationwide, and company leaders say El Paso’s tough logistics made it the ideal next step. The technology is touted to make long hauls more efficient, and they plan to deploy hundreds of these trucks in the coming year.

Housing remains brisk, with most agents reporting that homes across El Paso are being snapped up after just a couple of weekends on the market. If you’re job hunting, local logistics and transportation companies report s

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Sunday, October 26, 2025.

Let’s start our day together with a look at what’s happening around El Paso. This morning, skies are mostly clear and temperatures are handing us a crisp start near 52 degrees. We can look forward to plenty of sun today with highs climbing into the mid-70s. If you have plans for a hike on the Franklin Mountains or a stroll through Plaza Theatre’s downtown walk, weather won’t get in the way. Winds will stay calm and dry through tonight. Heading into the workweek, we can expect more sunshine with just a light breeze and no major weather concerns.

In breaking news from the weekend, El Paso was on the soccer map Saturday evening as our own Locomotive FC faced San Antonio FC in a match that saw a flurry of goals. The Locomotive took the early lead with a strike from Amando Moreno but ultimately fell to San Antonio 5 to 2. Despite goals from Moreno and Christian Sorto, San Antonio clinched a playoff spot and took home the Copa Tejas trophy this season. Locomotive’s season may be over but the team and fans are already looking ahead with hope for next year.

In local college sports, the UTEP women’s soccer team wrapped up a hard-fought season yesterday with an intense 0-0 draw against New Mexico State. Goalkeeper Alaina Gilbert delivered her best performance yet, collecting four big saves to secure the team’s fifth shutout this year. UTEP is now preparing for its move to the Mountain West Conference next season, where competition is expected to step up another notch.

Over in the community, there were celebrations with a message of hope on Montana Avenue this weekend. Residents gathered for a liberation parade honoring Catalina Xochitl Santiago, recently released from ICE custody after a federal judge ruled her detention violated her rights. The parade included community theater and calls for the freedom of other detainees still being held nationwide, reminding us how national policies can echo right here at home. According to KFOX, the event drew dozens in support.

Checking in with city hall, discussions continue about new infrastructure investments and possible updates to local parks after feedback from residents last week. The city council is expected to make decisions soon about funding for street repairs near Mesa Street and extending resources to schools in the northeast.

On the public safety front, local police report a relatively calm 24 hours across major neighborhoods. There were a few minor traffic accidents along I-10 and a domestic disturbance call in Central El Paso, but no major public safety threats overnight. Officers remind us to lock our vehicles, especially as shopping season approaches.

In the job market, several distribution centers near Zaragoza Road have posted hiring notices. Around 120 new warehouse and logistics jobs are open for applications, signaling growth ahead of the holiday rush.

On the real estate side, the El Paso Association of Realtors note

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Saturday, October 25th. We begin today with breaking news from downtown, where a serious accident just yesterday sent a pedestrian to the hospital after being struck by a vehicle near Stanton and Seventh Street close to the Santa Fe port of entry. El Paso police are investigating, and we will keep our ears out for updates as the situation develops.

Turning to the job market, there is renewed focus on public safety positions this week. El Paso ISD faces a shortage of certified peace officers, currently thirteen short of their target, prompting the district to file for an exemption from the state requirement to have an armed officer at every campus. District leaders say recruiting is tough, not just here, but across law enforcement agencies throughout the city. Efforts are underway to partner with El Paso Police and private security to fill those gaps, but parents and staff should remain aware that the challenge continues.

On the real estate front, Magoffin Avenue in Central El Paso is drawing attention for a rising squatter crisis. Residents report abandoned homes and vehicles are being occupied by transients, resulting in theft and general disorder. The city has condemned at least one such property, 1306 Magoffin, which is headed for demolition. Local officials urge neighbors to report suspicious activity using the city’s 311 service, and the new Magoffin historic district neighborhood association hopes to bring residents together for solutions.

We turn now to City Hall, where El Paso City Council is preparing for a meeting Tuesday to tighten short-term rental rules, part of ongoing efforts to address housing complaints and maintain neighborhood integrity. Also on the agenda is a complaint about a politically charged video being played at the airport.

For business news, Central El Paso sees a burst of energy with the recent opening of Café Verde on Montana Avenue, offering vegan options and attracting both locals and visitors. On the other side, Coyote Books on Mesa Street announced its closing this week due to rising rent, marking the end of an era for book lovers.

Let’s talk weather. It is a crisp, cool morning across town, with highs expected to reach just below seventy degrees and a passing chance of light showers this afternoon. Folks heading to outdoor events or the farmers market at the Union Plaza should bring a jacket and maybe an umbrella just in case. The outlook for the rest of the weekend shows more mild temperatures and clear skies Sunday.

In school sports, UTEP volleyball made headlines by ending Western Kentucky’s one hundred match Conference USA winning streak last night, a huge jump for the Miners. Over at Del Valle High, the Conquistadores are facing Andress in a make-or-break football matchup for District 1-5A, Division 2—expect an exciting game tonight.

From the crime beat, Crime Stoppers of El Paso named several fugitives for this week and is encouraging listeners to call

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Friday, October 24, 2025.

We start today with safety concerns in our neighborhoods. After years of complaints, the city’s Building and Standards Commission has ordered the demolition of a hazardous, abandoned home at 1306 Magoffin Avenue. Neighbors say they’ve seen everything from overdoses to late-night fights and even gunshots. With the property owner given 30 days to tear it down, residents along Magoffin are breathing a sigh of relief, hoping for quieter nights and a safer block.

In breaking news from our streets, multiple traffic incidents have made headlines. A serious motorcycle crash in Far East El Paso yesterday afternoon sent one rider to the hospital near John Hayes Street and Loma Dante with critical injuries. Just hours later, another motorcycle accident in West El Paso, at Resler and High Ridge, resulted in one person being airlifted according to local authorities. Elsewhere, a dramatic moment but no injuries after an SUV crashed right into Montwood Star Bakery at noon on Montwood Drive and Joe Battle Boulevard. The bakery’s owners say they’re shaken but thankful no one was hurt.

From city hall, Texas Governor Greg Abbott made a stop at Riviera Cocina & Cantina on Doniphan this week, urging all of us to vote in the November election. He’s highlighting concerns over crime and water issues, pushing for Proposition 3 to keep dangerous suspects behind bars before trial. Abbott also laid out plans for a multi-billion dollar upgrade to Texas water infrastructure, with early voting underway until October 31.

As for weather, we're starting the morning with cool fall temperatures in the mid-60s, climbing to a comfortable high near 82 this afternoon. Skies are mostly sunny, with a gentle breeze, making it a great day for outdoor plans. Expect similar weather heading into the weekend, but keep an eye out for slightly warmer afternoons.

Turning to our local job market, new postings are up this week, with nearly 4500 active openings across retail, healthcare, and logistics. In real estate, average home prices have ticked up slightly, now at about $243,000 citywide, with demand strongest for single-family homes on the east side and near Franklin Mountains.

For community events, Día de Muertos celebrations are ramping up. Look for music, food, and crafts at San Jacinto Plaza tomorrow, starting late morning and running into the evening. The El Paso Museum of History is also offering free guided tours on Sunday focused on the region’s cultural roots.

On the sports front, high school football is heating up. The Ysleta Indians and Irvin Rockets are locked in a battle for the division lead, with playoffs just around the corner. UTEP Miners volleyball continues its stellar run, undefeated in conference play, set for a big away matchup this weekend. Transmountain Early College High School is also generating buzz after several students earned national honors in STEM competitions.

For our feel-good stor

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Thursday, October twenty-third, twenty twenty-five.

We start with breaking news out of East El Paso, where a high-speed chase on Wednesday morning ended near Yarbrough and Mazatlan Drive. A Texas DPS trooper tried to pull over a silver Volkswagen, but the vehicle fled, leading to a pursuit and a dramatic foot chase. Five migrants were apprehended and handed over to Border Patrol. The group included people from Mexico, Ecuador, Guatemala, and Nicaragua. The driver now faces charges, and investigators say the case is still active.

On a brighter note, our community comes together this evening at San Jacinto Plaza for the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event hosted by YWCA El Paso. Starting at six p.m., men and boys will put on red heels and walk to raise awareness for survivors of domestic violence. Organizers expect about four hundred participants, with live music from local favorite Ryan G Band, plenty of food, and a spirit of solidarity. All proceeds support the Sara McKnight Transitional Living Center, offering safe shelter to women and children escaping abuse.

Meanwhile, we're seeing strong support for our first responders today. ProAction Emergency Services Institute just received a ten thousand dollar grant from the Freeport Foundation. This boost will help train and equip the next generation of emergency medical providers in El Paso, ensuring our city stays safe and prepared.

In government news, early voting is now underway across El Paso County. Voters are weighing in on local races and seventeen statewide propositions. With polling places active from Mission Valley to Westside, it’s a good time for all of us to make our voices heard. City leaders are closely watching turnout and discussing future shifts in district boundaries after recent court rulings on coalition voting, which could impact how diverse neighborhoods are represented at every level.

Looking to the skies, it’s a clear start to Thursday with mild temperatures reaching the mid seventies. No major rain expected, making it perfect for walkers downtown and for outdoor activities citywide. Forecasts call for similar weather through the weekend, so grab your shades and plan to top off those patio lunches.

On the job market front, hiring remains steady, with about two hundred new postings this week, especially in healthcare, hospitality, and logistics. Real estate agents report about fifty new listings, mostly single-family homes in neighborhoods like Eastwood and Sun City. Prices are holding steady, with average homes in those areas going for about two hundred seventy thousand dollars.

School sports bring extra pride today. The El Paso High Tigers volleyball team clinched victory last night against Austin with a close three to two set finish, and our Franklin Cougars football team is prepping for a big home game Friday at Franklin Stadium.

For those looking ahead, Concordia Cemetery will host its popular Dia de los Muertos fundraiser

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