エピソード

  • El Paso's Economy, Weather, and Community Highlights: July 18th, 2025

    El Paso's Economy, Weather, and Community Highlights: July 18th, 2025
    2025/07/18
    Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Friday, July 18th, 2025.

    We wake up today to a hot, muggy start, with temperatures climbing into the 90s. The humidity is thick, so if you plan on any outdoor activities, stay hydrated, take plenty of breaks, and keep an eye on those heat advisories. This afternoon, keep an umbrella handy for possible pop-up storms, which, as we saw earlier this week, have been causing occasional street flooding, especially in low-lying areas like Dyer and Alameda. El Paso Water has been working overtime to manage the flash floods, but drivers should still avoid large puddles and obey those posted detours. The weekend forecast is similar, so plan any outdoor fun for the mornings before it gets too steamy.

    A major headline this morning is the county’s growing budget deficit. El Paso officials reported a projected gap between fifty-five and sixty-two million dollars for 2025, a sharp rise from previous estimates. County Judge Ricardo Samaniego warns that, for now, no property tax hike is planned, but there could be fewer projects for new roads, parks, and government services if the budget doesn't improve. Departments have been ordered to cut spending by five percent, with more details coming after the July 25 property value report. The message from City Hall: we’ll need the whole community to pitch in as the county braces for some belt-tightening.

    El Paso’s business landscape has a busy pulse this week. The Shoppes at Solana are hosting fresh summer markets, and there’s chatter that several local retailers on Mesa Street and Gateway West are rolling out discounts and pop-up events to keep shoppers coming out despite the summer heat. Meanwhile, the job market continues to show resilience. The El Paso Chamber says local businesses have posted roughly eight hundred new openings this month, mainly in logistics and healthcare, and there’s strong hiring at the new distribution center near the airport.

    Moving to real estate, prices have leveled off this July. The average home in East El Paso is now selling just under three hundred fifty thousand dollars, giving first-time buyers a little breathing room after last year’s wild ride.

    This weekend, we’ve got plenty to look forward to. The Neon Desert Music Series returns to San Jacinto Plaza Saturday night, featuring up-and-coming acts and local food trucks. The Downtown Art Walk is also happening, and it’s a great way to support local artists and catch some shade in the galleries. Kids can enjoy special programs at the El Paso Museum of History, with hands-on exhibits running through Sunday.

    Turning to our school community, congratulations are in order at Franklin High, whose varsity baseball team clinched the district championship last night. Their victory parade is planned for Monday on Mesa Street.

    On the public safety front, local law enforcement responded to several car break-ins overnight near Montana and Brown, and investigators are cautioning residents to lock vehicles and avoid leaving valuables inside. There were no major incidents of violent crime reported in the past 24 hours, bringing some relief after last week’s uptick.

    Before we wrap, here’s a feel-good story. Volunteers from across El Paso spent yesterday morning repainting playgrounds in Memorial Park, making them safer and welcoming just in time for the new school year. It’s another sign of what we can accomplish when our community comes together.

    Thank you for joining us for El Paso Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates. Be sure to subscribe to stay connected. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out quietplease dot ai.

    For more http://www.quietplease.ai

    Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta
    続きを読む 一部表示
    3 分
  • "Tragedy in Northeast El Paso, City Budget Concerns, and Community Resilience"

    "Tragedy in Northeast El Paso, City Budget Concerns, and Community Resilience"
    2025/07/17
    Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Thursday, July 17, 2025.

    Let’s start with breaking news and community developments. The family of Raymond Massey is mourning today after a tragic crash took his life last week in Northeast El Paso near Gateway North Boulevard and Kenworthy Street. Massey’s loved ones describe him as more than just a name in the headlines, remembering his kindness and his deep role as a stepfather and husband. The accident happened after Massey suffered a medical emergency behind the wheel, and family members have thanked the community for their attempts to help at the scene.

    From City Hall, a major budget concern is unfolding. El Paso is set to forgo nearly nine million dollars in property tax revenue next year to honor exemptions for our 100 percent disabled veterans. The intention is to offer well-deserved relief, but state reimbursement covers only about 1.6 million of this cost, according to the city’s chief financial officer. That means local taxpayers absorb the gap. City leaders say they remain firmly supportive of these benefits, but they’re pushing for the state to boost its financial commitment since more than forty percent of homes in El Paso now receive some form of property tax relief.

    In public health news, the Texas Medical Board has suspended Dr. Yolanda Lagunas, a longtime OBGYN in El Paso, after investigations into alleged negligent care tied to two tragic fetal deaths. Documents show failures to act quickly on signs of fetal distress and even maintenance of separate medical records, which violates medical protocols. Her private practice is now closed until further notice and patients needing records are directed to leave a voicemail.

    Looking at weather, we are waking up to partly cloudy skies and a high right around 97 degrees on tap for this afternoon. There’s a slim chance for isolated storms, which could impact outdoor events, so it’s wise to check forecasts if you’re heading out. Expect a similar pattern heading into the weekend, with warm nights and occasional late-day breezes.

    On the jobs and real estate fronts, more than fifty-six thousand homes across El Paso currently benefit from property tax relief, underscoring the continued challenges families face with home ownership. While some local businesses are adjusting to tight margins, community spirit is strong, and that’s visible as new businesses open near Downtown and on the Eastside, offering summer jobs for teens and young adults.

    Cultural events continue to bring us together. The Plaza Classic Film Festival launches this evening, and Chicano arts legend Luis Valdez will appear to discuss his impact on stage and screen. Our kermes season is also in full swing, with church festivals popping up across the city offering food, games, and entertainment for all ages.

    In schools, local districts are preparing for the start of the 2025-26 year, with reminders going out today about updated bell schedules and campus routines. Recent word from El Paso Matters suggests school grant funding remains uncertain due to federal suspensions, a situation local leaders hope will resolve before classes resume.

    On the sports front, while official scores are still coming in, several high school summer league baseball and soccer squads notched big wins this week, giving our young athletes momentum as school gets set to start.

    For a quick crime update, the past twenty-four hours have been relatively quiet by recent standards, but there’s considerable attention on last week’s crash and recent audits at City Hall concerning retiree payouts. The city says they are reviewing each case closely to make sure all retired fire and police employees receive what they are owed.

    Finally, a feel-good story this Thursday: El Paso’s new HEART pilot program is gaining momentum. The initiative takes a compassionate approach to helping our homeless neighbors, prioritizing support and services over enforcement. There’s hope it may expand citywide if early successes continue.

    Thank you for tuning in to El Paso Local Pulse. Remember to subscribe so you never miss a beat on what matters in our city. This has been a Quiet Please production. For more, check out QuietPlease dot ai.

    For more http://www.quietplease.ai

    Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta
    続きを読む 一部表示
    4 分
  • Bracing for Blazing Heat, Helping Flood Victims, and Local Achievements | El Paso Local Pulse

    Bracing for Blazing Heat, Helping Flood Victims, and Local Achievements | El Paso Local Pulse
    2025/07/13
    Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Sunday, July 13, 2025. As we wake up across the Sun City, we’re bracing for another blazing day with those familiar July highs hovering around 100 degrees. If you’re planning to be outdoors, please take extra care, especially with several community cleanup events happening this weekend led by the El Paso County Public Works Department. These efforts are a great chance to give back while keeping hydrated and sticking to shade when you can.

    In breaking news, the aftermath of severe flooding in Ruidoso continues to touch lives here. Local volunteers, including one compassionate El Pasoan, have stepped up to help nearly a dozen displaced horses from the Ruidoso Downs Racetrack, offering both shelter and support. Our hearts also go out to the Fort Bliss soldier and his wife who remain hospitalized after being caught in the floods, with their two young children now in the care of friends.

    Turning to city hall, the new budget talks are in full swing, and residents have a stake in how our tax dollars are spent. El Paso officials are inviting everyone to get involved, with open meetings and surveys available on the city’s website. Every voice counts as the proposed budget could potentially bring a small tax hike, with the final decision set later this summer.

    On the job front, El Paso Community College is making headlines for its role in designing a state program that helps adults earn both a high school diploma and a career credential. With about 30,000 El Pasoans over 25 still without a diploma, this could be a real game-changer for job seekers and the broader workforce.

    For real estate, there’s a new push at the county level to explore regulations on short-term rentals. One commissioner is asking the county to take a close look at possible new rules. It’s all part of the ongoing effort to balance tourism with neighborhood quality of life, especially as more El Pasoans look for side income.

    Over on Montana Avenue, small business owners continue to voice frustration as long-standing road construction eats into sales and foot traffic. Local businesses are urging drivers to keep supporting them through these tough times.

    In culture and arts, the UTEP Dinner Theatre has launched its summer run of The SpongeBob Musical, bringing fun for families all weekend at the Wise Family Theatre. Later this year, the Plaza Theatre will host Jurassic Park in Concert, blending film and a live orchestra in the heart of downtown.

    Sports fans, the El Paso Locomotive fell short last night against Sacramento Republic. The match at Southwest University Park was hard-fought, but the home crowd kept spirits high.

    As for our schools, there’s a spotlight on local achievements with several middle schools named best in the metro area this month. However, there’s concern as state education agencies review leadership and budgets at two major school districts, with discussions of possible state intervention ongoing.

    On the crime front, authorities have launched an unpaid child support sweep, making several arrests over the past 24 hours as part of a broader enforcement push. Police are also looking for 21-year-old Ian Rodriguez in connection with an ongoing case, urging anyone with information to come forward.

    Finally, a feel-good moment: El Pasoans are not just helping nearby flood victims, they’re also showing kindness across the city. Volunteers, including young students, have organized supply drives for families in need, reminding us all of the generosity that defines our community.

    Thanks for tuning in and don’t forget to subscribe for your daily local update. This has been El Paso Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease dot ai.

    For more http://www.quietplease.ai

    Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta
    続きを読む 一部表示
    3 分
  • Borderland Heatwave Drives Safety Concerns, Budget Impacts for Local Schools

    Borderland Heatwave Drives Safety Concerns, Budget Impacts for Local Schools
    2025/07/12
    Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Saturday, July 12. Let’s start with our weather, which is making news on its own. We’re under a heat advisory again today across the Borderland. Temperatures are expected to soar between 103 and 108 degrees, so let’s make sure we’re all staying cool and hydrated, especially if you’re heading out to any outdoor events or activities.

    Now to breaking news impacting public safety. U.S. Customs and Border Protection made a significant firearms seizure at the Bridge of the Americas last week, confiscating 12 guns and 28 magazines hidden in a vehicle’s doors. A 33-year-old woman was arrested in connection with the attempted smuggling, and is now facing federal charges. Officials say operations like these are essential for keeping our border communities safer.

    Speaking of safety, law enforcement is stepping up efforts against unpaid child support. Deputies with the El Paso County Constable’s Office Precinct Three announced a new crackdown, searching for those with outstanding warrants for failing to pay child support. These warrants are a state jail felony and could land someone behind bars for up to two years. If you have information about a case, local authorities encourage tips to their office or Crime Stoppers.

    On the education front, local schools are bracing for budget impacts. The Trump administration suspended more than 19 million dollars in federal grants expected by El Paso County’s five largest school districts. Local leaders, including Congresswoman Veronica Escobar, are urging the administration to release the funds, warning that the freeze disrupts programs for English learners and other students, and is already leading to staff layoffs and program delays. Decisions around this funding could affect what our schools can offer in the coming year.

    Turning now to business and real estate, we’ve got new growth despite the summer slowdowns

    For more http://www.quietplease.ai

    Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta
    続きを読む 一部表示
    2 分
  • Borderland Heatwave, Border Policy Battles, and Community Events - El Paso Local Pulse

    Borderland Heatwave, Border Policy Battles, and Community Events - El Paso Local Pulse
    2025/07/11
    Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Friday, July 11, 2025.

    We start off with an update from our weather team, as a heat advisory remains in effect across the Borderland today. Temperatures could soar between 103 and 108 degrees, so let's make sure we stay hydrated, check on our neighbors, and look out for pets and young children. If you have outdoor plans, try to keep them for early morning or evening when it's cooler.

    In breaking local news, the El Paso County Commissioners this week approved a legal services amendment but postponed discussion on a major refinery permit. The move, reported yesterday, comes as the county remains tied up in legal battles over state policies that impact us directly. Just yesterday, a federal appeals court kept Texas’s controversial S.B. 4 immigration law blocked for now. El Paso County Attorney Christina Sanchez reaffirmed the county's commitment to opposing measures she says would divert law enforcement from key local priorities.

    Turning to City Hall, El Paso City Council just approved a $2.8 million technology modernization project with Dell and Spectrum Technologies. That means upgrades in the city’s digital infrastructure are coming, promising faster services and improved security in local government systems.

    In our courts, new records released this week show that defense attorneys representing the convicted Walmart mass shooter have been paid a combined $1.3 million in taxpayer funds across both federal and state cases. El Paso County reports over $6 million spent in total on the defense and prosecution since 2019.

    Congresswoman Veronica Escobar is speaking out after being denied entry to the ICE facility on Montana Avenue, despite having filed the required notice. She says oversight is essential, especially after recent federal audits and reports of human rights violations at the center.

    In the job and real estate market, there are new openings at several eastside logistics firms, and home prices remain steady but high, averaging just under $260,000 for a single-family home this month. That’s still outpacing last year, but inventory is slowly growing.

    Community events are heating up, too. The 45th season of Viva El Paso returns tonight at McKelligon Canyon Theatre. Across town, Movies at the Park features Sonic the Hedgehog 3 at Veterans Park on Salem Drive. The El Fresco Music Series brings both Latin and country rhythms to the evening skyline, and Summer Splash Bash offers games and swimming for families at Galatzan Park. Sports lovers can catch the El Paso Chihuahuas facing Las Vegas at Southwest University Park this weekend. Our El Paso Locomotive FC heads to Sacramento tomorrow after a tough 2-1 loss to San Antonio last week. Still, the Locos are chasing the conference leader and have clear playoff hopes.

    On a lighter note, kudos to Jefferson High’s robotics team, who took home top honors at the statewide summer STEM challenge, making us very proud.

    For our crime and safety update, things have been relatively calm overnight, with no major incidents reported. El Paso Police remind everyone to lock vehicles and report suspicious activity as we move into the busy weekend.

    Thanks for tuning in to El Paso Local Pulse. Stay safe from the heat, support each other, and take part in our incredible community events. Remember to subscribe so you never miss an update. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

    For more http://www.quietplease.ai

    Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta
    続きを読む 一部表示
    3 分
  • El Paso Floods, Taxes, and a Community Garden Oasis

    El Paso Floods, Taxes, and a Community Garden Oasis
    2025/07/10
    Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Thursday, July 10th, 2025.

    As we wake up today, our thoughts are with those impacted by the devastating flash floods just north of us in Ruidoso. El Pasoans like Rebecca Romero and her Big Brothers Big Sisters team barely escaped as the Rio Ruidoso river flooded their hotel. Their gratitude and resilience remind us to appreciate our own safety while we support our neighbors still recovering.

    Speaking of weather, expect a warm day with highs pushing the upper 90s. Storms are not likely for us, but if you have plans to travel up towards New Mexico, keep an eye on conditions and avoid flood-prone areas. Major lane closures on Montana and Alameda from Paisano to Yarbrough continue for ongoing roadwork through July 12, so allow extra time for Eastside commutes.

    In breaking news, El Paso police are investigating a crash that shut down the turnaround from Gateway South to Gateway North last night near Kenworthy and US-54. A white SUV caught fire under the overpass, drawing bystanders who helped the occupants escape. No injuries have been confirmed yet, and police are still piecing together the events.

    On the city hall front, property taxes are top of mind. Officials propose holding the current tax rate, but since the average home value here is jumping from two hundred nine thousand to two hundred twenty-three thousand dollars, most homeowners could pay about one hundred dollars more per year. Council members face tough choices, as eighty percent of our city budget goes to law enforcement. If you have opinions about taxes or services, city leaders urge you to attend upcoming public hearings before the budget vote in August.

    There is also a big cultural note: the city approved a temporary closure of several blocks along Mesa between San Antonio and Overland for the One Size Fits All Vintage Summer Smash Block Party. That happens Saturday, July nineteenth from noon to midnight. Expect music, vintage vendors, and food trucks turning downtown into a festival zone.

    On the real estate front, home prices continue a slow but steady climb, and in the job market, El Paso’s close relationship with Ciudad Juárez is translating into new opportunities, especially with growth in the computer and medical manufacturing sectors. Local analysts say it’s a good time to look for openings in those fields.

    In schools, El Paso ISD celebrates recent recognition of several middle school robotics teams headed to state competitions this month. Their coaches say the students’ hard work and curiosity are shining examples of our city’s future.

    Crime reports show an uptick in DWIs and related arrests this week. El Paso police and state troopers are increasing patrols, especially after dark, so let’s all make safe decisions and help keep our roads free of impaired driving.

    To end on a high note, our feel-good story comes from Eastwood Heights, where neighbors have teamed up to build a small community garden on Camrose Drive. They’re offering free vegetables to anyone in need and plan to start weekend youth workshops on healthy eating.

    That wraps up today’s El Paso Local Pulse. Thank you for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

    For more http://www.quietplease.ai

    Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta
    続きを読む 一部表示
    3 分
  • BREAKING: Refinery Smoke, Immigration Ruling, School Funding Delays - El Paso Local Pulse, July 9, 2025

    BREAKING: Refinery Smoke, Immigration Ruling, School Funding Delays - El Paso Local Pulse, July 9, 2025
    2025/07/09
    Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Wednesday, July 9, 2025.

    We begin today with breaking news from Central El Paso, where thick black smoke was seen rising from the Marathon El Paso Refinery late last night. The El Paso Fire Department confirms the smoke is from the refinery, and while the sight was dramatic, officials say the three active smokestacks are operating as part of standard procedure and no emergency response has been launched at this point. We’ll keep you posted if the situation changes.

    Let’s shift to City Hall, where major legal news arrived yesterday. A federal court of appeals has ruled that Texas Senate Bill 4, a controversial measure that would have allowed local law enforcement to arrest people suspected of crossing the border illegally, is unconstitutional. El Paso County Attorney Christina Sanchez says this decision spares our county from the heavy costs and challenges of enforcing federal immigration law at the local level. Immigrant advocacy organizations in El Paso see this as an important moment for our diverse community and for local control of law enforcement resources.

    Turning to our schools, many listeners may be worried about news of federal funding delays. El Paso’s five biggest school districts—including El Paso, Socorro, Ysleta, Clint, and Canutillo—were counting on over 19 million dollars in grants that have now been put on hold for review by the Trump administration. These grants fund programs from migrant and English language education to after-school enrichment, and the uncertainty has districts scrambling to develop contingency plans. In Canutillo, 30 education jobs are directly supported by these grants, and while programs are funded through August, the long-term outlook remains unsettled. Superintendents are calling this a political tactic that puts our most vulnerable students at risk.

    Now, for those of us planning our day, expect a hot one. The high will hit 102 degrees with plenty of sun and just a slight breeze. Stay hydrated, check on neighbors, and remember the city is giving out free sandbags at sites around town to help us prepare for flood season, just in case those unpredictable Borderland storms roll in later this week.

    Traffic is a major story again this morning as road construction continues across the city. If you’re heading west on I-10 near Transmountain or Redd Road, expect night lane closures for paving and barrier placement, with detours in effect. Loop 375 will also have shoulder and ramp closures between Fonseca, Customs, and Paisano. Give yourself extra time, especially in the evenings and overnight hours.

    In public safety, there are several incidents to report. Four police officers were injured after a crash on I-10 west near downtown Monday afternoon, but all are expected to recover. A detective was assaulted during service of a writ in east El Paso, where a 63-year-old woman now faces charges. In far east El Paso, a DEA agent was involved in a shooting during a narcotics case, but officials have not released further details. We want to remind everyone that Attorney General Ken Paxton is warning of potential scams following recent flooding statewide. Be careful when hiring contractors and report suspicious activity.

    On a brighter note, the UTEP rocket team continues to make us proud, winning big at an international contest, and Lamar Elementary in Central El Paso welcomes a new principal as the district gears up for the new school year. Our community also kicked off the Plaza Classic Film Festival with a tribute to Hollywood’s wartime legacy, drawing film lovers downtown to the historic Plaza Theatre.

    Finally, in one of those only-in-El Paso stories, local firefighters are being thanked across Central Texas for their role in flood rescues, showing once again that Borderland spirit of lending a hand wherever we’re needed.

    That wraps up our roundup for today. Thank you for tuning in and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update. This has been El Paso Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quietplease dot ai.

    For more http://www.quietplease.ai

    Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta
    続きを読む 一部表示
    4 分
  • El Paso Crash, Budget Review, Job Market Stability, Hot Weather Ahead

    El Paso Crash, Budget Review, Job Market Stability, Hot Weather Ahead
    2025/07/08
    Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for Tuesday, July 8th, 2025.

    We start with breaking news from I-10 downtown, where a serious crash yesterday afternoon left four police officers injured and caused major traffic delays for commuters heading westbound. Fortunately, all officers are reported to be recovering, but the scene caused gridlock stretching from Cotton Street to Schuster Avenue. Sunland Park saw another tragic incident last week, and police have now made an arrest in connection with a deadly pedestrian crash. El Paso firefighters are also being praised for their quick response, joining rescue efforts to save lives during recent flooding across Central Texas.

    Turning to City Hall, today’s council meeting at 9 in the morning at 300 North Campbell kicks off a series of eleven public sessions where we can weigh in on next year’s city budget. City leaders are emphasizing priorities like public safety and community health, and they’re aiming to avoid raising property taxes for a third straight year. The full budget process will wrap up with the final adoption on August 19th, but as of today, it’s our chance to give feedback that shapes city services and funding for months to come.

    El Paso’s job market remains stable, with new employers opening up shop near Bassett Place and job postings holding steady. Real estate agents are reporting moderate summer activity, with homes in the Lower Valley and Westside neighborhoods averaging just over three weeks on the market. The ongoing focus from county leaders is on closing tax gaps and investing in long-term projects.

    Our weather today will be another hot one, with the high expected around 98 degrees and lots of sunshine. The heat advisory is in effect, so if you’re heading outdoors, remember to stay hydrated, especially for kids and seniors. Storms are not in the forecast, so look for just a light breeze this evening and a warm, dry night ahead.

    On the community scene, the iconic Star on the Mountain will shine tonight in honor of Joaquin “Bean” Silva’s 15th birthday, as well as tributes to Linda Zavala and Amanda Grisel Nevarez. For our veterans, the county’s Veterans Advisory Board holds a public meeting this morning, offering support and resources for those who have served.

    Music and cultural events continue this week with live performances scheduled downtown and at San Jacinto Plaza, as well as the ongoing summer arts festival at the El Paso Museum of Art. Local school districts are dealing with a major funding setback after millions in federal grants were paused this month, putting enrichment programs for students—including summer camps and tutoring—at risk. School leaders across El Paso, Ysleta, and Socorro are urging parents to stay tuned for updates on how programs may be affected.

    On the brighter side, UTEP’s student rocket team just brought home top honors from an international engineering contest, a proud moment for our city and a testament to the talent coming out of our local schools.

    That’s your Local Pulse for today. This has been El Paso Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    3 分