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

We're starting off with some breaking news from the past few days. The El Paso Community College is hosting the Sun City Portfolio Day today, offering students a chance to showcase their work and connect with local professionals. Meanwhile, the city is moving forward with plans to build a new Advanced Manufacturing District, which is expected to bring in new jobs and economic growth.

Let's take a look at the job market snapshot. The latest numbers show that El Paso employment increased by an annualized 0.8 percent from August through November, with education and health services experiencing the largest gains. However, we also have some layoffs to report, with 140 Tenneco El Paso workers set to lose their jobs next month. The current unemployment rate stands at 4.6 percent, slightly higher than the state and national averages.

In real estate news, the city council has approved a Chapter 380 Economic Development Program Agreement for an infill development project at 914 W. Yandell Dr. The project is expected to bring in a minimum investment of $638,000 and create new jobs. We're also seeing some new construction updates, with the University of Texas at El Paso celebrating the groundbreaking of a new building.

From city hall, we have some updates on decisions that affect daily life. The city council has approved a resolution to reschedule their regular meeting for February 25, due to El Paso Days in Austin. They've also authorized the submission of an application to the U.S. Department of Transportation for a grant to fund the El Paso Central Business District Phase IV project.

The weather is looking chilly today, with below-freezing temperatures expected throughout the morning. We're advising residents to bundle up and take precautions to stay safe. The cold weather is also affecting some of today's events, so be sure to check for any cancellations or postponements.

In new business activity, we have some exciting news. The El Paso Beauty Barber Academy is set to have its grand opening celebration tomorrow, offering a range of services and training programs. We're also seeing some new job postings from top local employers, including Varay Managed IT and Makios Technology.

Looking ahead to the next few days, we have some upcoming community events to share. The El Paso Symphony Orchestra is hosting their 4th annual Young People's Concerts, offering free performances to area 5th graders. We also have a vigil planned for tonight to honor Cody Vaughn, an El Paso man who was killed in a car crash last weekend.

In local school news, we have some achievements to share. The Socorro Independent School District superintendent surprised several schools with recognition and celebration for achieving academic excellence. We're also seeing some exciting sports results, with local teams competing in regional tournaments.

Finally, let's take a look at today's crime report. The Texas Department of Public Safety made some gang-related arrests for weapons and narcotics, and we're advising residents to be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity.

On a more positive note, we have a feel-good community story to share. Local volunteers and outreach crews are coming together to address homelessness in our community, offering services and support to those in need.

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