El Paso Local Pulse

Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for March 18, 2025.

We begin with some breaking news from the northeast side of our city where a tragic incident occurred yesterday. A person was struck and killed by a train near the intersection of Hondo Pass and the railroad tracks. This incident has left the community in shock, and our thoughts are with the victim's family during this difficult time.

In city hall news, leaders are actively engaging with residents to gather feedback on the 2026 Strategic Plan. We’re encouraged to participate in a public survey that will help shape the future of our city, particularly focusing on infrastructure and economic development. It's a crucial time for our city, as we continue to address the pressing issues affecting our daily lives.

Shifting to the weather, we are under a high wind warning today, with gusts reaching up to 70 mph. This will likely impact outdoor activities and events, so we encourage everyone to take precautions. As we look ahead, temperatures are expected to be chilly today, only reaching the mid-50s, so bundle up if you’re heading out!

In local business news, a significant change is occurring with the El Paso food bank. Due to a reduction in federal assistance, they will be scaling back operations, limiting service to four days a week starting March 31. This impacts many families who rely on their services, highlighting the ongoing food insecurity issue in our community.

On the job front, there's some concerning news as MVM Inc. has announced layoffs affecting 247 employees. However, amidst those challenges, Schneider Electric is expanding its operations here, which could create new opportunities in the electric equipment manufacturing sector.

In real estate, the sale of the building at 301 East San Antonio has been confirmed, which could open up new business options for that location. As always, it’s crucial to keep an eye on these developments as they shape our local economy.

Cultural events continue to thrive in El Paso with the grand reopening of the Leo Cancellare Memorial Pool happening today. It’s a great opportunity for families to come out and enjoy some water fun as we welcome the warmer days ahead.

In sports, the El Paso Locomotive FC is gearing up for their season opener this weekend. The team recently signed two young talents to USL Academy contracts, signifying their focus on nurturing local talent. Fans are excited as they prepare for Youth Soccer Night on Saturday, which will also feature a fireworks show after the match.

Quick highlights from our local schools include achievements in athletics, with various high school teams competing well in recent matches. These accomplishments remind us of the spirit and talent in our young athletes.

For a feel-good story, we share the tale of an El Paso family’s kind gesture during the recent St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. They collected donations and food for the local food bank, showing how our community comes together to sup

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Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for March 15, 2025.

We're starting off with some challenging weather conditions today. El Paso is experiencing another round of strong winds and blowing dust, continuing a trend we've seen throughout the week. The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning until noon, with gusts up to 70 mph possible. Residents are advised to secure loose outdoor items and be cautious while driving, especially on I-10 and Loop 375 where visibility may be reduced.

These dust storms are more than just an inconvenience. El Paso was recently ranked as the ninth-most polluted major U.S. city in 2024, and experts warn that 2025 could be even worse. The ongoing drought and above-average winds are contributing to poor air quality, which can have serious health impacts, particularly for those with respiratory conditions.

In business news, Schneider Electric USA has announced plans to modernize and expand its electric equipment manufacturing facilities in El Paso. This multi-million-dollar project is expected to create 300 new jobs, boosting our local economy. Governor Greg Abbott highlighted the expansion as a testament to Texas's business-friendly climate and El Paso's skilled workforce.

On the crime front, El Paso Police have arrested five teenagers in connection with a daring "crash-and-grab" robbery at a vape shop in East El Paso. The incident occurred at Loudmouth Vapor Smoke on Montana Avenue, where the suspects allegedly used a stolen vehicle to smash into the storefront before making off with merchandise.

In sports, the UTEP Miners women's basketball team faced off against LA Tech last weekend. While we're still waiting for the final results, the game was part of an exciting season for our local athletes.

Looking ahead to community events, Borderland Pallet Liquidation is hosting its grand opening next Saturday, March 22nd, at 508 Canal Road. It's a chance to support a new local business and perhaps find some great deals.

For soccer fans, El Paso Locomotive FC has signed two young local talents, Axel Valdivia and Raul "Chapo" Vazquez, to USL Academy contracts. This move showcases the team's commitment to developing homegrown talent and gives these players a chance to train alongside professionals.

On a positive note, the Greater El Paso Football Showcase has announced its scholarship recipients for the class of 2023, awarding a total of $40,000 to 20 local high school seniors involved in various aspects of football and related activities.

As we wrap up, we want to remind everyone to stay safe during these windy conditions and to look out for one another. Remember, if you have any information on local crimes, you can always contact Crime Stoppers of El Paso anonymously.

This has been El Paso Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for March 14, 2025.

We're starting with a weather alert today. El Paso is experiencing severe dust storms, with visibility dropping to near zero in some areas. The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning until noon, with gusts up to 70 mph expected. Residents are advised to stay indoors if possible and use caution when driving.

In breaking news, two grass fires have broken out in El Paso County. Crews are currently battling the blazes, with some evacuations underway. We'll keep you updated as the situation develops.

On a brighter note, the El Paso economy continues to show strength. The latest report from the Dallas Fed indicates our city led Texas metropolitan areas in employment growth last year, with a 2.1% increase. The cybersecurity sector is particularly booming, with projections showing a 22% growth by next year and average salaries hitting $112,000.

In real estate, existing home sales are up 9.4% compared to last year, though inventory remains tight at 3.5 months of supply. The average home price in El Paso now stands at $245,000.

City Hall has been busy. The County Commissioners recently approved a $3.9 million deal with AT&T to bring fiber internet to over 1,000 households in underserved areas. This project aims to bridge the digital divide in our community by the end of next year.

In education news, the University of Texas at El Paso's cybersecurity program is seeing great success, with an 85% job placement rate for graduates within six months.

Unfortunately, we have some concerning news about school meal programs. USDA funding cuts are threatening to reduce options for children who depend on these meals. Local food banks are working to fill the gap, but they're facing challenges of their own.

On the crime front, a crash in South Central El Paso at Delta Drive and San Marcial Street has left one person hospitalized. Special Traffic Investigators are on the scene, and eastbound lanes of Delta Drive are currently closed.

Looking ahead to the weekend, the Plaza Classic Film Festival is kicking off tomorrow at the Plaza Theatre downtown. This year's lineup includes a special 30th-anniversary screening of "Selena" and a tribute to El Paso-born actress Debbie Reynolds.

We'll end on a positive note. The El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank has just launched a new volunteer program aimed at getting more young people involved in community service. They're offering special after-school and weekend shifts for high school and college students.

This has been El Paso Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for March 13, 2025.

We're starting with some breaking news this morning. The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals has scheduled the execution of David Leonard Wood, known as the "Desert Serial Killer," for today at 6 p.m. in Huntsville. Wood was convicted in 1992 for the murder of Ivy Susanna Williams and has maintained his innocence for over three decades. This case has long been a topic of discussion in our community, and we'll be following any developments throughout the day.

In city news, the El Paso Zoo is anxiously awaiting a decision on its accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The inspection report has been mixed, leaving uncertainty about the zoo's future status. We'll keep you updated as we learn more.

Turning to weather, it's going to be a beautiful spring day with clear skies and a high of 72 degrees. Perfect weather for outdoor activities or catching the Locomotive FC's season opener at Southwest University Park tonight.

In business news, we're seeing continued growth in our tech sector. The Dallas Fed reports that El Paso led metropolitan areas in employment expansion last year, with a growth of 2.1%. This trend is expected to continue, with projections showing our labor force could surpass 17.9 million by 2036.

Speaking of jobs, there's good news for those in cybersecurity. The field is booming, with an average salary of $112,000 and top performers earning up to $168,000 annually. Entry-level positions start around $59,000, making it an attractive career path for recent graduates.

In real estate, existing-home sales are on the rise. Year-over-year sales were up 9.4% in December, with inventory holding steady at 3.5 months of supply. While this is an improvement from recent lows, it's still below the six-month supply considered a balanced market.

On a somber note, the Hanks High School community is mourning the loss of Kristina Butterfield. Her teammates are remembering her positive spirit and the impact she had both on and off the court. Our thoughts are with her family and friends during this difficult time.

In crime news, one person has been hospitalized following a crash in South Central El Paso at the intersection of Delta Drive and San Marcial Street. Special Traffic Investigators are on the scene, and eastbound lanes of Delta Drive are currently closed.

Looking ahead to the weekend, don't forget about the Business Connect meeting happening on March 19th in Northeast El Paso. Mayor Johnson will be speaking, and the Economic Development Department will be providing resources for small businesses.

On a lighter note, we're excited about the upcoming Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons concert. It's sure to be a nostalgic night of classic hits right here in El Paso.

This has been El Paso Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for March 11, 2025.

We're starting with some breaking news from overnight. A serious crash occurred in South Central El Paso at the intersection of Delta Drive and San Marcial Street. One person was hospitalized, and Special Traffic Investigators are on the scene. The eastbound lanes of Delta Drive remain closed, so plan your morning commute accordingly.

In a tragic update, we've learned that a 58-year-old Central El Paso man lost his life in a separate crash late Friday night. Police believe he failed to yield the right of way while making a turn. Our thoughts are with the victim's family during this difficult time.

On a brighter note, El Paso Locomotive FC has signed two promising young players, Axel Valdivia and Raul "Chapo" Vazquez, to USL Academy contracts. These local talents will be eligible for the season opener against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC this Saturday at Southwest University Park. It's a great opportunity for our community to support homegrown talent.

Speaking of sports, UTEP's Eva Jess continues to impress on the track. The senior has broken the program's 5k record twice and is aiming for even more as we head into the outdoor track and field season.

In city news, Mayor Oscar Leeser addressed infrastructure concerns during the recent State of the City address. He acknowledged our roads need improvement and mentioned that the city manager and staff are exploring dedicated funding options to tackle this issue. We'll keep you updated as plans develop.

The job market is looking up, with Blue Origin expanding operations at our airport. The aerospace company's growth could lead to more high-paying jobs in the region. Mayor Leeser also emphasized the potential for medical sector growth, noting that each new doctor creates up to 15 additional jobs.

For those looking to buy a home, the market remains competitive. While specific numbers aren't available, local realtors report steady demand, especially in the northeast area where revitalization efforts are underway.

Culture enthusiasts, mark your calendars! The annual Poppies Fest is back with a month-long celebration throughout March. It's a perfect opportunity to enjoy our local natural beauty and community spirit.

Weather-wise, we're in for a blustery day. A Wind Advisory and Blowing Dust Advisory are in effect from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., with gusts up to 50 mph possible. Visibility may drop below one mile at times, so drive carefully if you're out and about.

Lastly, a heartwarming community story: Bienvivir All-Inclusive Senior Health recently celebrated the 100th birthday of Mr. Albino Camarillo. It's a testament to the vibrant, long-living community we have here in El Paso.

This has been El Paso Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for March 8, 2025.

We're starting with some breaking news from overnight. A deadly shooting occurred in far east El Paso around midnight. Police responded to reports of shots fired on the 2100 block of Setting Sun Road, where they found one man with fatal gunshot wounds. A second victim reportedly self-transported to a local hospital. The Crimes Against Persons Unit is investigating, and no arrests have been made yet.

In other news, El Paso Locomotive FC kicks off their 2025 USL Championship season today at Southwest University Park against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. The match will be broadcast locally on KVIA, as part of a new partnership announced this week.

Speaking of sports, UTEP fans are celebrating the first basketball sellout in 9 years for last night's Aggies matchup. The final score wasn't available at broadcast time, but the atmosphere was electric at the Don Haskins Center.

On the job front, the Dallas Fed's latest report shows El Paso leading the state in employment growth last year at 2.1%. However, they're projecting a slightly softer job market statewide for 2025. Still, our unemployment rate remains low at 4.2%, matching the state average.

In real estate news, the median home price in El Paso held steady last month at around $215,000. Inventory remains tight, with just over 2 months of supply available.

City Hall has been busy this week. The traffic ticket amnesty program ends today, so if you have outstanding fines, this is your last chance to settle up without additional penalties. Also, Sun Metro is mourning the loss of a second employee following last month's explosion at their Montana Avenue maintenance facility. Our thoughts are with the families affected by this tragedy.

Looking ahead to next week, don't miss the El Paso Prowl Scavenger Hunt happening today from 11 AM to 1 PM, starting at District Coffee Co. on Texas Avenue. It's a fun way to explore our city and maybe discover some hidden gems.

In school news, Socorro ISD is offering a $2,500 payout incentive for some employees who voluntarily resign, as the district faces budget challenges. This comes as they prepare for potential layoffs of up to 300 workers.

On a brighter note, local favorite Alamo Drafthouse is hosting a special screening of "Dune: Part Two" tonight, complete with themed menu items and costume contests. It's sure to be an out-of-this-world experience on Mesa Street.

Weather-wise, we're looking at a beautiful spring day with highs near 75 and plenty of sunshine. Perfect for outdoor activities or catching that Locomotive match.

Lastly, a quick reminder that Daylight Saving Time begins tomorrow. Don't forget to spring forward and set your clocks ahead one hour before bed tonight.

This has been El Paso Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for March 7, 2025.

We're starting with some sobering news today. The execution of David Leonard Wood, known as the "Desert Killer," is scheduled for next week. Wood's attorney is fighting for a delay, seeking additional DNA testing. This case has haunted our community for decades, and we'll be following any developments closely.

In a troubling incident, the City of El Paso's chief military officer, Paul Albright, was arrested for driving while intoxicated on February 24. This news has sparked discussions about leadership and accountability in our local government.

On a brighter note, we're excited to share that illegal border crossings have plummeted in El Paso. Daily entries are down to 60 from 2,700, a significant decrease that's sure to impact our community in various ways.

In sports news, the Pebble Hills High School Spartan Marching Band is making history. They'll be representing El Paso in the 2025 Rose Parade, marking the first time any group from our area has participated in this prestigious event. We're proud of our local talent shining on a national stage.

For job seekers, there's good news. The USAJOBS website currently lists 183 federal job openings in El Paso. Positions range from healthcare to engineering, with some offering salaries starting at $76,925 per year.

In community events, don't miss the grand re-opening of iFly El Paso today. The celebration kicks off at 10 a.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, promising a day of thrilling indoor skydiving experiences for all ages.

El Paso High School's theater department is gearing up for their production of "Clue: On Stage." The show promises to be a testament to the creativity and dedication of our local students.

In real estate news, we're seeing continued growth in our community. New businesses are opening, and there's ongoing development in various parts of the city. We'll keep you updated on any major changes that might affect your neighborhood.

Today's weather outlook is sunny with a high of 75°F, perfect for outdoor activities. Looking ahead, we're expecting clear skies throughout the weekend.

On a somber note, El Paso police are seeking the public's help in finding a suspect after a deadly shooting at a party in Far East El Paso. They've identified the victim and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Lastly, we want to highlight a heartwarming story. The 605 All Star Band, a composite group of high school bands, will be representing California in the 2025 Rose Parade. This collaboration shows the power of coming together in the face of challenges, a message that resonates with our own community's spirit.

This has been El Paso Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for March 6, 2025.

We're starting with some breaking news from last night. A Sun Country Airlines flight from Minneapolis to Cancun was diverted to El Paso due to a security concern. The FBI investigated and concluded there was no threat to passengers, crew, or aircraft. All 156 passengers were safely accommodated overnight, and we're awaiting updates on their continued journey.

In other news, El Paso's job market is getting a significant boost. A new Advanced Manufacturing District near the airport is set to bring 17,000 jobs to our city by 2030. This includes 4,000 engineering and tech positions, along with 13,000 high-skill technical jobs. Mayor Renard Johnson hails this as a transformative project for our local economy.

On the crime front, police are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred in far east El Paso over the weekend. The incident took place on Setting Sun Road, where one man was fatally shot and another injured during a gathering. The Crimes Against Persons Unit is leading the investigation, and no arrests have been made yet.

In community news, the El Paso Chamber of Commerce is celebrating new businesses. Today at 10 AM, iFly El Paso is holding its grand re-opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. It's a full day of excitement, including flight demonstrations and special offers for attendees.

For those interested in local culture, don't miss the upcoming art show at Artspace Gallery in Downtown tomorrow evening. It's a free event showcasing local talent from 5 to 9 PM.

Weather-wise, we're looking at a pleasant day ahead with clear skies and temperatures in the mid-70s. It's perfect for outdoor activities, so consider checking out the revitalized Ascarate Park. The county recently held its first "Revive and Thrive" community cleanup event there, with the next one scheduled for April 26th.

In real estate news, the housing market remains competitive. The median home price in El Paso is now around $240,000, up 5% from last year. New developments are popping up, especially in the east side to accommodate our growing population.

Sports fans, mark your calendars. The UTEP Miners basketball team has a crucial home game this weekend. They're fighting for a spot in the conference tournament, so head down to the Don Haskins Center to show your support.

Lastly, a heartwarming story from our schools. Students from Loretto Academy participated in the "Talk About Love" event outside the county courthouse, chalking messages of respect and healthy relationships to raise awareness about teen dating violence.

This has been El Paso Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for March 4, 2025.

We're starting off with some exciting business news today. Japanese steelmaker Kyoei has unveiled plans for a massive $255 million expansion of their Vinton Steel facility in northeast El Paso County. This investment is set to create 180 new jobs and upgrade the existing operation to a state-of-the-art facility. The company cited El Paso's exceptional workforce and strategic location as key factors in their decision.

In weather news, El Paso residents are hoping for clearer skies after enduring a dust storm yesterday. The high winds and poor air quality made for challenging conditions, but we're expecting improvement today. Speaking of weather impacts, a house fire in East El Paso yesterday left about 200 residents without power. The cause was linked to a fallen tree branch, reminding us all to stay vigilant during windy conditions.

On a brighter note, get ready for some high-flying excitement! iFly El Paso is hosting its grand re-opening tomorrow, March 5th. The event kicks off at 10 a.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and promises a day full of thrills for all ages.

In community news, the El Paso Opera is hosting a Casino Night fundraiser at Lost & Found on March 29th. It's a great opportunity to support the arts while enjoying a night of entertainment and high-rolling excitement.

Sports fans, mark your calendars! The El Paso Chihuahuas' home opener is coming up on April 5th. Head over to Southwest University Park to cheer on our team as they kick off the new season.

For those interested in local history and outdoor activities, the National Parks Service is offering guided hikes to the El Paso Tin Mines on March 23rd. It's a moderate to difficult 6-mile trek that offers a glimpse into our city's mining past.

In public safety news, authorities have arrested a Venezuelan national in El Paso on charges related to alleged fraud and misuse of visas. This serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to maintain border security in our region.

Looking ahead to the weekend, don't miss the Borderland BeerFest at DeadBeach Brewery on April 5th. It's El Paso's largest free admission craft beer festival, showcasing the best brews our region has to offer.

Finally, we'd like to highlight an upcoming educational event. On March 27th, aviation enthusiasts can join members of the National Weather Service, El Paso International Airport, NTSB, and FAA Safety Team for a discussion on weather safety in aviation. It's a great opportunity to learn about this crucial aspect of flight operations.

This has been El Paso Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for March 1, 2025.

We're starting off with some big news for our city's economy. The Advanced Manufacturing District at El Paso International Airport is moving forward, with construction beginning on the first phase. This project is expected to create around 17,000 jobs by 2030, including 4,000 engineering and technology positions. It's a major boost for our local workforce and could position El Paso as a leader in innovation.

In other business news, El Paso Electric has proposed a rate increase that would raise average residential bills by over $22 per month. However, Mayor Renard Johnson and several City Council members have expressed concerns about the impact on residents. Negotiations are expected in the coming months, and we'll keep you updated on any developments.

Speaking of utilities, water bills are set to increase starting this month as part of ongoing infrastructure improvements. It's part of a larger trend we've seen over the past decade to upgrade our water and sewer systems.

On the transportation front, there's a major closure to be aware of this weekend. I-10 will be shut down in both directions in northwest El Paso for 49 hours as part of the I-10 Widening West project. Plan your routes accordingly and expect delays in the area.

In education news, we're proud to report that three El Paso high school mariachi groups earned top ratings at the recent UIL state competition. Franklin, Hanks, and Pebble Hills high schools all received the highest possible scores in their divisions. It's a testament to the talent and dedication of our young musicians.

Looking at the weather, we're under a wind advisory until 8 a.m. this morning, with east winds of 25 to 35 mph and gusts up to 50 mph. Despite the wind, we're expecting a pleasant day with a high of 65 degrees. Perfect weather for getting out and enjoying our community.

In public safety news, the El Paso County Sheriff's Office has released its latest list of most wanted fugitives. If you have any information on these individuals, please contact Crime Stoppers.

On a lighter note, Chicas Locas, the controversial "bikini bar," will remain closed until March 2025 as part of an agreement with the county. The establishment has agreed to make several changes, including improved security measures, before reopening.

Looking ahead to next week, don't forget that daylight saving time begins on March 9th. Remember to set your clocks forward and enjoy that extra hour of evening sunlight.

This has been El Paso Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.