EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The FBI El Paso Field Office will host a Diversity Recruitment Event on Friday, September 6, 2024, aimed at encouraging individuals from diverse backgrounds to explore careers with the FBI. The event will take place from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Natural Gas Convention Center on the UTEP campus.

Attendees will have the chance to meet with FBI executives, special agents, and other personnel to learn more about career opportunities. SWAT and Crisis Negotiation teams will also be on-site with their gear, and physical fitness advisors will be available to discuss the FBI agent fitness test.

Good Morning El Paso's Isabella Martinez participated in the local media FBI fitness test. This is a physical requirement for those applying to be a special agent. It includes: one minute of sit-ups, 300 m sprint, pushups to failure (FBI protocol pushups),1.5-mile run and pull-ups.

You can check out the fitness requirements and protocols here or on the FBI Fit Test App.

The recruitment event is free, and while attendees are not required to apply, computers will be available for those ready to begin the application process. You can learn here.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) — As part of Suicide Prevention Month, mental health professionals are urging the community to take action by both recognizing the warning signs of suicide and learning how to support those who have lost loved ones to suicide. 

Suicide is preventable and there are resources available. It is critical to take action, according to the CDC every 11 minutes someone takes their life in the United States.  

ABC-7 spoke to Veronica Cabada, crisis therapist at Emergence Health Network, who emphasizes the importance of being aware of warning signs that could indicate someone is at risk of suicide. “If your loved one is always happy and smiling and all of a sudden you're seeing them just kind of withdrawn, isolating, not wanting to participate, irritable, agitated - those are signs,” she says.

Cabada says suicide affects all ages, “I’ve seen as young as maybe eight or maybe even younger, but it just all depends on, you know, their experiences. Some of these children are going through a very traumatic experience, such as emotional, physical, sexual abuse, bullying, other types of experiences that they're not understanding,” she says. 

If you notice signs, important to act quickly, “They'll say things like ‘Don't tell anybody' or 'I'm not going to go through it.’ Read between the lines. Let's move quickly. Time is of the essence,” says Cabada. 

In addition to recognizing these warning signs, Cabada stresses the need to understand how to support those left behind after a suicide. Everyone’s grief journey is different and knowing how to offer support can be challenging, however it’s important to approach the conversations with care.

Cabada advises to avoid saying phrases like “They’re in a better place now” or “You have other children you have to be strong for them.” 

Instead, she advises to offer a listening ear and validate feelings. “What we can say is very simple. ‘I’m sorry.’ ‘I am so sorry for your loss.’ ‘How can I help you?’ ‘What do you need from me?’" says Cabada. “Just be present. Just nodding your head, you know, letting them know I am connected with you directly.”

Emergence Health Network offfers support groups for those left behind by suicide. They meet every last Tuesday of every month from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at 1601 E. Yandell Drive. 

If you or someone you know needs help you can call or text the National Suicide Hotline (988) at anytime. 

In El Paso, you can visit Emergence Health Network (1601 E. Yandell Drive) for an evaluation and to get the recommended resources by local experts. Cabada also recommends visiting to grief.com for online books and videos. 

EHN offers firearm locks for military men and women, Cabada emphasizes the number one method of suicide is by firearms - so securing this is one of their priorities. 

For a look at all programs and resources available at tEHN, click here. Remember, you are not alone.

Find more resources on our Be Mindful page.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- ABC-7 is teaming up with Albertsons to support El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank during 'hunger action month.'

Shoppers at Albertsons will have the option to donate at check out.

El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank CEO, Susan Goodell, spoke to ABC-7, she says they are serving over 180,000 people in El Paso annually. "Some people come every week. Some people just come when they're in crisis. But one in five people here in this community depend on the food bank to put healthy food on their tables," she says.

The food bank is always looking for volunteers, Monday through Friday. "When the volunteers are not here, we're not able to do this important work and this nutritious food does not get to our clients also," emphasizes Goodell.

Start making a difference this month, $1 equals 7 meals. You can also donate online at anytime.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- El Paso Independent School District is moving forward with Phase II of its Destination District Redesign (DDR). Currently, EPISD is focusing on elementary schools, with potential school closures and reallocations of resources. 

EPISD says they currently have 75 elementary campuses, however they are not at their maximum use. The target is to achieve 80% utilization, which the district says they are far from.

A facility study also identified the costs of upgrading facilities to meet 21st-century learning standards, including the possibility of renovations or complete rebuilds. 

ABC-7 spoke to Marivel Macias, chief organizational transformation equity officer for EPISD, who says they are examining factors such as enrollment, transfer rates, and the condition of school facilities.

"In elementary, we have the 22 to 1 class ratio, and that's something that is maximized," says Macias. “Currently we have campuses or classrooms that are underutilized. So we have many vacant seats, any classroom or any school that we would consolidate, we would make sure that it's at the optimal capacity.”

Macias says by optimizing campus utilization, they can focus on improving their “sister schools,” these are schools that have higher capacity and better facilities. “As we consolidate, that means that we have more funding within our system to allocate resources to those facilities that need to be upgraded,” Macias explains.

She also mentions that surplus property from any schools that may close could be repurposed in collaboration with the City of El Paso, such as the recent sale of Morehead Middle School which is now an animal shelter and emergency shelter to house migrants. 

Macias says they want parents to be involved in the decision making process, “It's about bringing our students together, make sure they're one community, and that they're growing up together with the programing that they need and with our amazing teachers to continue to move them forward. It's very important that we hear our community so that we're able to share with them the data we've looked at.”

The next meeting is tonight at Jefferson High School at 5:30. The focus audience for this meeting is Tinajero PK8, Zavala ES, Cooley ES.

Schedule for the rest of the community meetings:

• Tuesday, Sept 3
  Coronado High School (100 Champions Pl., 79912)
  Focus Audience: Coronado, Murphree PK8, Haskins PK8, Zach White ES, Green ES, Putnam ES, Rivera ES, Western Hills ES

• Wednesday, Sept 4 
  Andress High School (5400 Sun Valley Dr., 79924)
  Focus Audience: Andress, Charles MS, Richardson MS, Bobby Joe HIll PK8, Newman ES, Torres ES, Barron ES, Tom Lea ES, Nixon ES 

• Thursday, Sept 5 
  Austin High School (3500 Memphis Ave., 79930)
  Focus Audience: Austin, Navarette MS, Coldwell ES, Crockett ES, Moreno ES, Clendenin ES, Rusk ES, Travis ES, CCTA 

• Monday, Sept 9 
  Bowie High School (801 S San Marcial St., 79905)
  Focus Audience: Bowie, Guillen MS, AOY ES, Hart ES, Douglas ES 

• Monday, Sept 16 
  Franklin High School (900 Resler Dr., 79912)
  Focus Audience: Franklin, Hornedo MS, Brown MS, Lundy ES, Polk ES, Tippin ES, Kolhberg ES, Guerrero ES, Herrera ES  

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- The City of El Paso is hosting a series of community meetings to inform residents about the upcoming November ballot measure concerning the future of the Multipurpose Center. The first meeting will take place this evening at 5:30 p.m. at the Marty Robbins Recreation Center.

The ballot measure will ask voters whether to revoke the city's remaining authority to issue bonds for the long-delayed project, which is the last remaining initiative from the 2012 Quality of Life Bond. 

Laura Cruz Acosta, city spokesperson, spoke to ABC-7, she emphasizes that the purpose of these meetings is to educate, not persuade, the community on what the vote entails. “We are asking the community to come out, educate themselves on the ballot language, educate themselves on the history of it, and make a final decision on November the fifth,” says Cruz-Acosta.

A total of nine meetings will be held across El Paso, including one hybrid session. 

Marty Robbins Recreation Center (11620 Vista Del Sol Dr.)

• Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024
• 5:30 p.m.

The Beast Urban Park (13501 Jason Crandall Dr.)

• Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024
• 6 p.m.

Westside Regional Command (4801 Osborne Dr.)

• Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024
• 5:30 p.m.

Westside Branch Library (125 Belvidere St.)

• Wednesday, Sept. 4
• 5:30 p.m.

Valle Bajo Community Center (7380 Alameda Ave.)

• Monday, Sept. 9, 2024
• 5:30 p.m.

Hilos de Plata (4451 Delta Dr.)

• Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024
• 5:30 p.m. 

Municipal Services Center (1059 Lafayette Dr.)

• Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024
• 6 p.m.

Northgate Transit Center at Metro 31 (9348 Dyer St.)

• Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024
• 6 p.m.

HYBRID MEETING

• Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024 
• 5:30 p.m.

In Person: City Hall (300 N. Campbell) Main Conf. Room, 2nd Floor

Virtual: https://tinyurl.com/3aky32ks

• Meeting ID: 222 503 394 412

• Passcode: MRLvu6

Phone: (915) 213-4096, 430 466 561#

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- The University of Texas at El Paso is welcoming students back to campus today. UTEP has many new initiatives in store, along with their yearly, miner traditions!

The first event, Texas Western Gold Rush kicks off tonight at 7:00 p.m. at UTEP's Centennial Plaza.

Tune into Good Morning El Paso to learn about all the events. We will have live reports with UTEP's president Dr. Heather Wilson and UTEP's vice president of student affairs, Dr. Catie McCorry-Andalis all morning.

Click here for a full list of the Miner Welcome events.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- As the school year begins, many parents will be packing lunches for their children. Having healthy, kid-approved meals can be challenging at times.

ABC-7 spoke to Leticia Diaz, registered dietician at Del Sol Medical Center to get tips for parents battling with picky-eaters. 

“Packaging different food groups such as vegetables, fruits, a dairy, a protein or whole grains is very important for them to be more proactive at school,” says Diaz. “If you make fun shapes from the food by using a cookie cutter, there will be more interest spread and they will be more motivated to go ahead and eat it.”

Diaz recommends engaging children in the lunch preparation, “Let them give them choices like peanut butter, yogurt, fruits, vegetables. They'll be a little bit more willing to go ahead and try it because they were involved and they could choose what they wanted it on their lunch box,” she advises. 

Building healthy eating habits early on is crucial to long term health, experts warn that processed foods, high in sodium and saturated fats can lead to chronic health issues if consumed regularly. “I would recommend if it's possible for parents to start with their healthy whole foods early in childhood and then all the way until they're a little bit more grown up, like teenage years” says Diaz. 

Balance is important, while treats are okay occasionally, the focus should be on giving them the right nutrients to grow and develop a healthy life style.

Diaz also says making healthy food accessible for children can prevent them from choosing junk food, “I know moms are very, very in a very limited time. They have to prepare quick and easy meals. But having, for example, a fruit already cut, a vegetable already cut up, everything ready where the child goes and opens the fridge and can have that ready and easy to eat helps a lot for them to enjoy those nutritious foods that you can offer.” 

“I would highly recommend to limit, for example, the sugary drinks,” says Diaz. “When kids are thirsty, they want to have something flavored, so they want to have a juice first, offer water when they're very thirsty and limit the juice or diluted as well so we can decrease the calories and the sugars.” 

Diaz says it’s important to have a structure and schedule meals and snacks to ensure they are hungry for lunch and dinner time. “When kids are hungry, they tend to ask for milk because the milk provides carbohydrate proteins and fats,” she says. “Try to limit it to four ounces, three times per day. That way you can encourage them to eat a little more at meal time because they can they can get full with milk.”

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- As college students begin a new academic year and transition into a new phase of life, the pressure can feel overwhelming.

ABC-7 spoke to Krista Wingate, Chief of Child and Adolescent Services at Emergence Health Network, who explained that college students may experience a range of emotional challenges. These challenges include fearfulness, anxiety, and even a lack of self-worth.

“For a college age student, regardless of the grade level, it's really important to look at their everyday functioning” Wingate says. “So how often out of the week are they maybe not wanting to get out of bed and go to class? How often are they skipping out on a lunch or dinner with their friends or their family that they committed to?”

Wingate notes that the transition can be particularly difficult for incoming freshmen who are navigating new responsibilities and freedoms. “They're getting ready to spread their wings and parents should be, encouraging them to do things on their own, giving them some independence. Yet at the same time just trying to find that balance of, okay, I'm here to support you,” she says. 

Wingate emphasizes that parents play an essential role in supporting their college-aged children and maintaining open communication is key. “As a parent, if you're feeling a little bit of anxious, you're feeling fearful because they're going to be sleeping in a dorm or they're going to be renting a house with other peers, talk to your kids about that," Wingate advises. "Always ask, what can I do to support you? How is it that I can help? So that way you can get the input from your college student about maybe where it is that they need more support."

The weight of decision-making and the pressure to succeed can feel overwhelming, Wingate says it’s crucial for students to seek help early.

“They can go to support groups, get involved in different activities on campus or with other peers, their own age, and talk about the struggles, talk about the struggles learned from other people, get the coping skills,” Wingate says. “Learn how to manage the stress so that way it doesn't continue to follow them and they don't continue to struggle with stress, especially as years go on, particularly for freshmen, or they're just entering college.”

Wingate says many students may also turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance use, to deal with stress or fit in with their peers. “You see it a lot on social media and the media in general. Have a drink. It's okay. That'll make you feel better," she says. "The thing with drugs and alcohol is that it may make you feel better in the short term, in the very immediate. But when you become intoxicated or you start to use substances as a way of coping and then limits your ability to possibly use other healthy ways of coping with stress in life challenges in the future."

Journaling, exercise, or simply taking a break and watching a movie are all healthy ways to cope with stress, according to Wingate. “Journaling, I like to call it brain dump. You just envision it. Get everything out of your head. Just put it all on a piece of paper or type it up on your phone or on a computer, just doing visualization. So imagine all that stress, just leaving your brain, leaving your body and leaving it on the paper,” she says.

Everyone has different ways of coping, it depends what the person likes to do, it could even be crafts, going to a dance class, or even just sitting and watching the sunset for 20 minutes.

Emergence Health Network (EHN) offers a variety of mental health programs for all ages, to learn more about their services you can click here.

You can also call the EHN crisis hotline at 915-779-1800.

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LAS CRUCES, NM (KVIA) -- Today marks the first day of classes at New Mexico State University. The university is welcoming 15,000 students back to campus for the academic year, marking an increase in enrollment compared to last year.

NMSU is emphasizing student wellness and career preparation, which will be central, key themes throughout the year. 

ABC-7 spoke to Dr. Renay Scott, NMSU’s Vice President of Student Success and Enrollment Management, who emphasized several initiatives aimed at supporting students, including new speakers and events on campus. Scott also says the the university is doing more to promote opportunities for internships and job interview preparation.

“We have put into place the support systems you need, the different programming you need,” Scott said. “What you need to do is engage yourself, show up to your classes, do your homework, and collectively, between the work that you put in and the work we put in, you can and will be successful here.”

In addition to these new initiatives, NMSU continues to offer tutoring and mentoring programs to ensure students have the resources necessary year-round.

NMSU's Global Campus is also welcoming students worldwide. They were recently recognized by Forbes Advisor as the best online college in New Mexico for 2024.

The Global Campus offers more than 70 online bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs, designed specifically for adult learners who are looking to finish their degrees.

Seth Miner, the Vice Chancellor of Strategic Enrollment Management at NMSU Global Campus, told ABC-7 what sets them apart is their integration with the main campus, “We intentionally had that connection to the main campus because there's no question about the the level of service, the level of education that our adult learners are going to be experiencing through the process,” he says.

New Mexico residents enrolled in the Global Campus are eligible for up to 100% tuition coverage through the Opportunity Scholarship, a state-funded scholarship. “If you're a new student, you can qualify for that as long as you attend an institution within the state of New Mexico within 16 months of graduation. You just have to be a New Mexico resident and graduate from a New Mexico high school,” explains Miner.

For more information on NMSU Global Campus and the Opportunity Scholarship, click here.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- El Paso City Council is set to vote on the proposed budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year, which includes a no-new-revenue tax rate.

The no-new-revenue tax rate is designed to keep the city's revenue from property taxes at the same level as last year, despite rising property values. This means that while many homeowners have seen an increase in the appraised value of their homes, the proposed lower tax rate aims to prevent a significant increase in the city's portion of their tax bills.

ABC-7 spoke to Chief Financial Officer and Deputy City Manager for the City of El Paso, Robert Cortinas who explained that this approach has been a priority for the mayor and city council, “All of the city staff have worked extremely hard in this budget. It is a significant achievement for the city to be able to do this now for two years in a row,” he says.

The proposed budget includes continued investments in public safety, infrastructure, and city employee wages. It includes funding for police and fire academies, street improvements, and operational costs for city facilities like La Nube, the new children’s museum.

Cortinas says the investment in the city’s workforce was a priority when developing the new budget. He says city council approved an increase to get to a target wage of $15 per hour for all civilian employees, “With the budget that will be approved tomorrow. It'll put us at $14.11 effective in March of 2025. So we're doing a $0.50 increase in September, a $0.50 increase in March for all of our civilian employees,” he explains.

If approved, the new tax rate and budget will take effect on September 1. Residents can participate in today’s City Council meeting, either in person or virtually, to provide input during the final public hearing before the vote.

City Council meeting starts at 9:00 a.m. at City Hall. You can count on ABC-7 for the latest.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- El Paso City Council is set to conduct final interviews today with the four finalists for the City Manager position, with a decision potentially being announced by the end of the day.

The interviews will take place during the council’s executive session. This is the last step in a selection process that began in March 2023. The process has faced criticism in recent weeks, with some community members expressing concerns.

Committee member Cindy Conroy told ABC-7 that she believes the process was “rushed.” In a press conference last week, Mayor Oscar Leeser addressed what he calls misconceptions and misinformation.

Mayor Leeser provided a timeline of the process, where it shows the process began when council voted unanimously to prepare an RFP to select an Executive recruiting firm in March of 2023. Over the last year, the city also conducted multiple meetings to inform residents and gather their input, including recent meet-and-greets with the finalists.

The four candidates being considered for the role are all current city employees:

• Robert Cortinas: Chief Financial Officer and Deputy City Manager for Internal Services.

• Mario D’Agostino: Deputy City Manager for Public Health and Safety, overseeing police, fire, and public health departments.

• Nicole Ferrini: Director of Community and Human Development, focusing on housing affordability and homelessness.

• Dionne Mack: Deputy City Manager for Quality of Life, managing museums, libraries, and parks.

Leeser also emphasized the benefits of hiring locally, “Why don't we pick someone from out of town? We went that route twice before. Now, it’s time to stay local and look in our own backyard. We have four highly capable candidates who can move our city forward,” he said. The previous two city managers, Tommy Gonzalez and Joyce Wilson, were from out of town.

Leeser says they are hoping to announce their decision later today, with the new city manager set to start on September 3.

Stay with ABC-7 for updates regarding the decision.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) --  The Humane Society of El Paso is hosting their 31^st Annual Happiness Happens Here Telethon presented by Mark Worley, this Saturday, August 17 on ABC-7.

This event is the largest fundraiser for the organization, all proceeds will go to help provide food, shelter, medical care and socialization services to the 4,000 vulnerable animals served by HSEP each year.

Donations can be made by texting "Dog" or "Cat" to 915-615-2720 or online at by clicking here!

Tune into Good Morning El Paso to learn how to participate and start donating today. We will have live reports all morning featuring some of the furry friends at HSEP.

The post Is El Paso a cat city or a dog city? How you can participate in the 31st Happiness Happens Here Telethon this weekend appeared first on KVIA.

EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- Ensuring a healthy pregnancy is a top priority for expecting mothers and taking the right steps early are critical. 

ABC-7 spoke to Dr. Violeta Maldonado a OB-GYN at The Hospitals of Providence East Campus, who advises women to begin taking prenatal vitamins at least three months before planning for pregnancy.

Regular check-ups are also crucial, especially in the early stages of pregnancy, to monitor conditions like diabetes and hypertension. 

As part of routine prenatal care, doctors at Providence Hospitals conduct general labs, including screening for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and anemia.  Additionally, genetic testing is offered to identify risks for disorders such as Down syndrome, and to determine the baby’s sex early on. “If you find out that you're already pregnant, getting in to see the doctor early is always important. Try not to wait until you're late in pregnancy. That way you're getting monitored early,” emphasizes Dr. Maldonado. 

Maintaining a balanced diet and staying active are also key. Dr. Maldonado recommends eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein while limiting fatty foods and caffeine intake. “You want to just make sure that you're staying active. If you haven't been active prior to pregnancy, it's more important to just start walking and being a little bit more active than before,” she says.

For many women in El Paso, pregnancy can come with additional risks. High-risk pregnancies can be caused by a variety of factors such as age, obesity, and chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes. Dr. Maldonado notes that about 20% of her patients are considered high-risk, often due to diabetes.

Gestational diabetes, which is developed during pregnancy, is a big concern. “Moms with gestational diabetes can have bigger babies, which can lead to C-section. The other thing is that for the baby, once they're born, they can have difficulty managing their sugars,” says Dr. Maldonado. “In order to prevent it, you want to just make sure that you're watching your diet. You're trying to exercise, you're not eating out too often. You're limiting things like soda to decrease your sugar intake. We want to just make sure that even if you do have diabetes, we're monitoring your blood sugars and that they're staying normal.”

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Editor's Note: A previous version of this story listed Mayor Oscar Leeser as one of the people who voted in favor of the motion. Leeser did not participate in the vote.

EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- The fate of the long-debated Multipurpose Performing Arts and Entertainment Facility is once again in the hands of El Paso voters. On Tuesday, the El Paso City Council voted 5-3 to send the project back to the ballot in November, allowing the public to decide whether the project should proceed.

City Representatives Joe Molinar, Art Fierro, Henry Rivera, Chris Canales and Brian Kennedy voted in favor of the motion to return the remaining bond authority for the project to voters. Representatives Josh Acevedo, Cassandra Hernandez, and Isabel Salcido opposed the idea.

The project has faced numerous delays, site controversies, including the proposed Duranguito location and Union Depot, and escalating costs over the years.

During the council meeting, Representative Hernandez expressed concerns about the timing of the decision, noting that six of the current council seats will be vacant come November. She says council is losing credibility with this decision and that council is “making decisions that are more personal and politically motivated as opposed to wanting to improve the city."

However, Mayor Leeser spoke to ABC-7 and argued that it was time to return the issue to the voters, “Back in 2012, the voters were asked to approve an item for $180 million. It couldn't be built back then. The voters were misled, and it's very important that we start talking about it. Now the voters will have an opportunity to say, yes, we still want it or we don't want it."

In addition to sending the project back to the voters, the council also approved a comprehensive communication strategy to educate the community on the ballot item. The plan includes hosting nine community meetings, one in each district and one hybrid. This is in effort to provide detailed information about the project and what the vote will mean. The strategy also involves funding for an educational campaign, featuring mailers, a dedicated website, social media outreach, and other forms of engagement.

Representatives Acevedo and Salcido, who opposed the project, told ABC-7 this step is crucial prior to the November election. “My goal for this ballot in communicating to the public is giving them all the information they need to feel confident in voting,” said Rep. Salcido.

ABC-7 will keep you updated soon as we learn the exact dates and details for the community meetings.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- El Paso City Council is expected to make a decision that could possibly put the Multipurpose Performing Arts and Entertainment Facility back for voting in November. City leaders will hold a public hearing during today’s city council meeting to discuss placing the project on the November 5 ballot. This would give residents the option to decide whether or not to revoke the city’s authority to issue the remaining bonds for the facility.

The Multipurpose Center was originally approved as part of the 2012 Quality of Life bond but has faced years of delays. If the ordinance is approved today, the November vote could determine whether the project moves forward or is scrapped entirely.

Some council members say it is time to take it to the voters, stating that the money left from the bond is not enough to complete what was promised to voters over a decade ago.

As part of the council’s preparations, a proposed communication strategy will also be up for discussion. The plan includes hosting nine community meetings: one in each council district and one hybrid meeting. This will provide voters detailed information about the ballot item. 

The strategy also involves funding for an educational campaign, including mailers, a dedicated website, social media outreach, and other public engagement efforts.

ABC-7 spoke to Laura Cruz-Acosta, communications director for the City of El Paso who emphasizes that the communication campaign is designed to be educational, not persuasive. “The efforts that we're undertaking is simply educational. By voting yes it means ‘X’ by voting no, it means ‘Y’, whatever it might be that the council members direct staff, we're going to be providing basic information in terms of what is on ballot and what it means if you go in one direction or another,” says Cruz-Acosta.

During today’s public hearing residents will be able to voice their opinions before the council makes the final decision. If the communication strategy is approved, it will be implemented prior to the November election, this will ensure that voters are fully informed about the potential impacts of their decision.

The city council meeting starts at 9 a.m. at City Hall. The community is encouraged to attend and provide their input on the proposed ballot item and communication plan.

This is a developing story, count on ABC-7 to bring you the latest on council’s decision.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- El Paso residents will have their final opportunity today to meet the four candidates running for city manager.

The City of El Paso is hosting the last meet-and-greet at the Sylvia A. Carreón Recreation Center today from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Residents will be able to meet with the candidates one-on-one.

After meeting the candidates, attendees will be asked to fill out a short bilingual survey to share their thoughts. “The survey goes over every single candidate and allows them to be able to give feedback. What are their strengths? What are their weaknesses for each of the candidates? Who do they think is best qualified for the position that information these surveys are going to be given to the mayor and the city council,” Laura Cruz-Acosta, spokesperson for the City of El Paso told ABC-7.

The feedback collected from these surveys will be presented to the mayor and City Council, who will make the final decision on the city manager appointment. 

The four candidates for the position, all of whom currently work for the city, are:

• Robert Cortinas: Chief Financial Officer and Deputy City Manager for Internal Services, overseeing human resources and information technology.

• Mario D’Angostino: Deputy City Manager for Public Health and Safety, responsible for police, fire, and public health departments.

• Nicole Ferrini: Director of Community and Human Development, managing programs related to housing, homelessness, climate change, and social justice.

• Dionne Mack: Deputy City Manager for Quality of Life, handling museums, libraries, and parks.

The role of city manager is crucial for El Paso, it works similarly to a chief executive officer (CEO) for the city. “The city manager does give advice to the council members based on their knowledge and understanding and education and experience. But at the end of the day, as mayor and city council members who make the decision, the city manager then implements the policies,“ explained Cruz-Acosta.

As for the next steps, the selection process will continue with two citizen panels interviewing the candidates. 

City Council is expected to conduct final interviews on August 19.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- IDEA Public Schools in El Paso kicked off the 2024-25 school year, welcoming over 6,000 students across its 10 campuses.

This year marks a significant milestone as IDEA Edgemere College Preparatory and IDEA Rio Vista College Preparatory, who are introducing their first-ever 12th-grade class. The class of 2025 will be the first to graduate from these campuses, fulfilling IDEA's mission to send students to and through college.

Both IDEA Edgemere and IDEA Rio Vista opened in 2018, initially serving grades Kindergarten through second and sixth grade, and have since expanded to include all grade levels. The upcoming seniors, who began as 6th graders, are on track to complete over 11 Advanced Placement (AP) courses, career tech courses, and participate in college visits to over 15 institutions.

Tune into Good Morning El Paso for live reports and a look into their first-ever senior sunrise at IDEA Edgemere. 

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FABENS, TX (KVIA) -- Fabens Independent School District is welcoming students in for the 2024-25 school year! The district is rolling in with new initiatives for the students this year.

FISD is setting up their students for success, Fabens high school continues to grow their P-tech program (pathways to technology) and EMT program this year. This is in part of the dual credit early college high school initiative.

Tune into Good Morning El Paso's for live reports and to hear from interim Superintendent, student athletes, and staff! It's an exciting year for Fabens ISD!

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CANUTILLO, TX (KVIA) -- Canutillo Independent School District is welcoming the students back to the classrooms this week!

The district passed the $387 million dollar bond at the end of last school year, in May. This will kick off some major projects, including building a new school and repair existing ones.

Tune into Good Morning El Paso to hear more about the projects and what's in store for this school year. We have live reports with Superintendent, Dr. Pedro Galaviz

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- El Paso Independent School District is welcoming students back this year with plenty of initiatives in store.

The district is adding six new extended day learning sites at Guerrero, Dr. Green, Kohlberg, Polk, Tom Lea, and Western Hills, offering before and after school care from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

A new user-friendly website and the innovative ROOMS communication tool are being launched to improve engagement and transparency between parents, students, and the district.

To help cool off during the hot months, El Paso ISD has implemented a temporary cooling initiative. Isolated cooling stations and water bottles are provided at campuses with evaporative cooling systems.

The district is also enhancing school safety with partnerships with local law enforcement and investments in advanced security technologies.

All 8th-grade students at seven middle schools will have access to Algebra to prepare them for future academic success. Early childhood education is expanding with free full-day programs for qualified PK3 and all PK4 students.

The Kickstart martial arts program now includes Guillen and Bobby Joe Hill, promoting discipline and empowerment.

A new Montessori school at Green is opening in effort to introduce a unique educational approach focused on individualized learning. The AVID program, which supports college readiness, is being extended to Guillen and Charles Middle Schools.

Additionally, a new mechanical and aerospace engineering program will offer hands-on experience in collaboration with UTEP and El Paso Community College.

Extracurricular activities are expanding to 3rd-grade students, including intramural sports, robotics, UIL Chess, and Dance Team. The community schools program is also expanding, with new Family Resource Centers providing food banks, hygiene closets, and adult education classes.

Tune into Good Morning El Paso for live coverage from Jefferson High School. Find out why they are celebrating a little extra this year!

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SOCORRO, TX (KVIA) -- Socorro Independent School District is ready to welcome students this morning! This school year is filled with new initiatives across all schools, all in effort to set students up for success.

This school year SISD is opening a new Student Activities Complex open for athletic games and events. It features an athletic field, concession areas, locker rooms, offices and conference rooms for athletics and fine arts. This project was constructed as part of the Bond 2017 program.

SISD is the first district in the region launching new electric buses and charging stations. The district received $9.875 million to build charging infrastructure and replace 25 school buses with new electric models, serving some 1,500 students. SISD was one of only 13 Texas school districts to receive U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Clean School Bus Funding in October 2022. 

Tune into Good Morning El Paso to learn more about the new initiatives and have a look into Vista Del Sol Environmental Science Academy's first day of school preparations.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- Today marks the 5 year anniversary of the tragic August 3rd mass shooting that changed El Paso forever. The community is coming together for a day of remembrance, filled with events to reflect, honor, and heal.

There will be various events across El Paso throughout the day hosted by the City of El Paso and El Paso County:

Public Sound Bath, led by Instruments of Healing

• 8:00 a.m. at the Healing Garden

Public Art Project Unveiling

• 9:30 a.m. at Jim Crouch Park

Craft & Movie - "Coco”:   Watch the beloved film "Coco" and create paper lanterns to symbolize remembering loved ones.

• 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at the Clardy Fox Library, 5515 Robert Alva

Family Painting Hour: Paint iconic El Paso scenes to celebrate the city's resilience.

• 12:00 p.m. at the Judge Marquez Library, 610 N. Yarbrough

Acts of Kindness: The El Paso Play, an intimate, heartfelt play by UTEP Theatre and Dance department, based on interviews conducted a year after the tragedy.

• 1:00 p.m. at El Paso Museum of Art

Painting Hour: Paint the star on the mountain.

• 3:00 p.m. at the Jose Cisneros Library, 1300 Hawkins

Mini Canvas Painting Hour: Paint the star on the mountain; El Paso Strong buttons will be distributed.

• 3:30 p.m. at Dorris Van Doren Library, 551 Redd Road

In Loving Light: A Luminarias Memorial:  A luminaria display will be inside the museum diorama gallery. 

• El Paso Museum of Archaeology, 4301 Woodrow Bean Transmountain Dr

Evening Events:

Day of Resilience Ceremony, Hosted by El Paso County and United Way of El Paso. The ceremony will include the unveiling of a mural dedicated to the victims, a reading of the names, and a light beam ceremony at 8:30 p.m

• 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Ascarate Park, Healing Garden, 6900 Delta

Star on the Mountain, at 8:30 p.m. the star on the mountain will flash 23 times to honor the 23 lives lost on August 3, 2019.

ABC-7 will have complete team coverage of the remembrance activities throughout the day, including live reports from the Healing Garden during Good Morning El Paso Weekend and our evening newscasts, starting at 5:00 p.m.

Join us as we come together to reflect, honor, and heal.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- The UTEP Department of Theatre and Dance, in collaboration with the Mexican American Cultural Center, will present "Acts of Kindness: The El Paso Play." This theatrical montage is inspired by interviews conducted in El Paso, the year after the mass shooting at Walmart that claimed the lives of twenty-three innocent people.

The play aims to honor the victims and survivors of the tragedy, while promoting collective healing and understanding. It is written in monologue form, with personal experiences from people in the El Paso Community, including doctors, politicians, historians, and reporters.

ABC-7 spoke to Carolina Flores Parada, one of the six actors of the play and Brittany Conyers, the stage manager of the play.

Flores Parada is a UTEP graduate and a Juarez resident, she says when she read the script, she identified with it and has encountered feelings with the production, "It's more like mad than sad because I have different experiences like from the past from Juarez like you just experience violence at some point or another, one form or another. So for me it's like, oh, like again. And for it to happen on this side it was just like frustrating."

Conyers recently moved to El Paso five years ago, she says this play has a lot of emotions, "I think every single person who comes is going to get a little something different out of it. I think every single person will leave feeling like they're a part of something bigger."

Acts of Kindness will be free to the public and presented at the El Paso Museum of Art on August 2 at 7:00 p.m. and August 3 and 4 at 1:00 p.m.

A licensed mental health therapist will be present at each performance.

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ANTHONY, TX (KVIA) -- The smallest school district in the El Paso region is making big strides this year. Anthony Independent School District is expecting at least 760 students across their three schools. This year they introduced several new initiatives aimed at enhancing education, wellbeing, and safety.

The district is rolling out a $1 million grant called Stronger Connections. This grant funds coordinators to address students' mental, behavioral, and emotional health, establishing a vital link between families and the school community.

Anthony ISD has also invested approximately $300,000 in silent panic alert technology and security cameras.

Middle school students will have the chance to participate in Esports for the first time. This competitive video gaming initiative not only offers fun but also potential scholarships and opportunities to develop competitive skills while fostering a sense of belonging.

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SANTA TERESA, NM (KVIA) -- As Gadsden Independent School District begins the new school year, they have several new initiatives and developments are to enhance their students’ success. 

The district is providing free school supplies to every student, ensuring that all children are equipped for academic achievement. The construction of the new Gadsden Middle School has also kickstarted, making it a significant milestone for the district.

Efforts to support academic growth are in full swing, with principals and teachers are ready to welcome the students back to the classroom!

Student social-emotional learning (SEL) and mental health are also prioritize as they have various programs in place to support student well-being year-round.

Tune in to Good Morning El Paso to hear from faculty and learn more about these exciting developments.

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TORNILLO, TX (KVIA) -- As the new school year begins, Tornillo Independent School District is introducing several innovative programs to enhance the educational experience for students.

The PK-8 STEM Academy is rolling out new initiatives, including high school credit classes, Folklorico, dual language programs, and a blended learning grant.

High school students will benefit from a new associates CTE Computer Science program. 

Additionally, the district is focusing on social-emotional learning and counseling, supported by the Stronger Connections Grant, with an emphasis on college, career, and military readiness (CCMR) and improving attendance.

School safety remains a top priority, the district has made significant investments in meeting state safety guidelines, ongoing training for all stakeholders, and the presence of school resource officers and security guards.

Tune in to Good Morning El Paso for a look inside all the new initiatives. 

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- As the new school year kicks off at Ysleta Independent School District, parents and students are preparing for the transition back to classrooms. This time of year often brings a mix of excitement and nerves, with students facing academic pressures and social adjustments.

ABC-7 spoke to Michael Enriquez, middle school lead school counselor at Ysleta ISD, who advises parents to stay positive about the upcoming school year. "Children can pick up on their parents' emotions pretty easily," he says. "If parents are really nervous or expressing anxiety, the kids are likely to pick up on that."

Enriquez says building and maintaining routines is essential. "Parents should get their children back into routines early enough so that they're not struggling on the first day," he emphasized. This includes setting regular bedtimes, waking up at a consistent time, and ensuring a healthy breakfast to start the day.

For younger children experiencing separation anxiety, Enriquez recommends familiarizing them with the school environment beforehand. "Take the kids to meet the teacher and get to school ahead of time so that the students feel a little bit more at ease," he says. "Teach them some independent tasks that the kids can easily pick up, putting on their shoes, putting on their backpack, playing with their new lunchbox, whatever it might be to get those kids really excited about going into school for the first time.”

Parents should be alert to signs of stress or anxiety, such as changes in behavior, difficulty sleeping, or frequent physical complaints like headaches and stomachaches. "If these symptoms occur, parents should reach out to the school for additional resources," Enriquez says.

YISD partners with Care Solace to connect families with mental health providers and their counseling website offers various resources for students and parents.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- As students prepare to head back to school, parents are reminded of the importance of scheduling back to school physical exams. These checkups are not only required by the state but are also crucial for children’s health.

ABC-7 spoke with Dr. Ricardo Reyna, medical doctor in El Paso, who emphasizes that parents need to book appointments with their child’s pediatrician or physician as soon as possible. These visits help ensure that children are up to date with their vaccinations and have the necessary forms for any daily medications filed with their school.

Dr. Reyna also wants to remind parents of student athletes that they need an additional sports physical to determine if they are fit and healthy to participate in their chosen sport.

Vaccination requirements vary by age. Children need multiple vaccines before starting pre-K or kindergarten. At 11, they must receive the DTaP and meningitis vaccines, and at 16, a second booster dose of the meningitis vaccine is required.

Dr. Reyna notes that as children return to classrooms, there tends to be an increase in illnesses. “Right now, there’s just a basic illnesses, just the viral colds, there's not really a big increase in the hospitals at this time with like COVID or flu. But definitely we start seeing those once, once people are gathered,” he said.

In addition to physical exams, Dr. Reyna advises parents to adjust their children’s sleeping schedules in preparation for the school year. “A lot of kids stay up a little later during the summer. So it's a good time to to start planning to get the kids on a schedule earlier there so they could be prepared for first school this upcoming year,” he said.

To maintain year-round health, Dr. Reyna recommends reinforcing good hygiene habits with children. Make sure to remind them to wash their hands frequently! 

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LAS CRUCES, NM (KVIA) -- Las Cruces public schools welcomed students back on Monday, marking the start of the second year with a year-round schedule. Superintendent Ignacio Ruiz told ABC-7 the district had a smooth transition as students returned to class, many with first-day jitters but overall excitement.

Ruiz says the year-round schedule, now in its second full year, is receiving positive feedback from both the community and staff, “A lot of our teachers, you know, like the calendar, like the breaks in between. And so I think this year was a little bit, you know, people are more used to it.” Ruiz says the district will review the calendar later this year to consider any necessary adjustments such as tweaking some of the intercessions. 

The district is also emphasizing the importance of regular attendance this school year. “The data shows when kids are in school, it sets them up for success,” Ruiz said. “We're going to ramp up our efforts with mentors that we saw last year. We saw a difference in our kiddos that had mentorship throughout the year. Their attendance really improved. And so we are going to increase that.”

Tune into Good Morning El Paso for live coverage and a look inside all the new initiatives at Las Cruces High School this year. 

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SAN ELIZARIO, TX (KVIA) -- San Elizario Independent School District is buzzing with excitement as students return to the classroom today. After a summer break, students and teachers are eager to start the new academic year with fresh energy and enthusiasm.

Superintendent Dr. Jeannie Meza-Chavez is ready to welcome the students for the new school year.

Tune into Good Morning El Paso for live coverage of the first day of school preparations, live interviews with Dr. Meza-Chavez and a look inside all the new initiatives. 

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- Clint Independent School District is welcoming back students for their 2024-25 school year. This years theme is "You Make Us" shining light on the staff that is committed to their students' success.

ABC-7 spoke to Dr. Juan Martinez, superintendent for Clint ISD, he emphasizes their mission is to prepare all students to be successful from beginning to end, "We have a very high college to the career readiness success almost in the 90, 95%. So from very early all the way to high school, we are all committed to the students success," he says.

For the parents who may be nervous for the first day of school, Dr. Martinez wants to reassures they are prepared, "We have counselors available. We have the teachers who already know what to do with students who have anxiety or the students whose first time coming to school, especially little ones."

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LAS CRUCES, NM (KVIA) -- The United States Section of the International Boundary and Water Commission Upper Rio Grande Citizens Forum Board is inviting the community to participate in a crucial public meeting today to discuss water management and flood prevention efforts in the Upper Rio Grande area.

These forums are held three times a year since 1999. Officials want to have open conversations with the community.

Today's agenda includes updates on sediment disposal and drought resilience efforts. Enrique Ornelas, Assistant Area Operations Manager for the USIBWC Upper Rio Grande Field Office, will provide insights on the sediment disposal program. Genevieve Allan, Planning Group Supervisor for the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, will discuss grant opportunities and drought resilience efforts.

ABC-7 spoke to Frank Fisher, public affairs chief for the U.S. section of the International Boundary and Water Commission, he says this meeting will allow officials learn what improvements are needed.

“The IBWC has been doing a terrific job dredging the Rio Grande and some of the other tributaries to be able to remove the sediment to keep the water flowing, to prevent flooding,” Fisher says. “However, we have a lot of the sediment piled up and we have offered a program where people can come by, pick up the sediment for free.”

Public comment is a key part of the meeting, officials want to hear from all residents in communities near the Rio Grande stretching from El Paso to Las Cruces. They will use public comments to act on future projects.

The meeting will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Doña Ana County Government Center. Attendees can also join virtually via Microsoft Teams by clicking here.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- El Paso County, in partnership with the Lower Valley Water District, will hold their groundbreaking ceremony today on a significant infrastructure project aimed at enhancing water and sewer services in neighborhoods in the Lower Valley’s historic Colonias.

The project is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), designed to address urgent public health needs. It targets three neighborhoods: Panorama Village, Angel Park and Athena West. These areas have been without proper sewer connections for decades, relying on outdated septic systems that pose significant, serious health risks.

“This is a very big deal for our community, County Commissioner Iliana Holguin told ABC-7. “Unfortunately, here in El Paso County, we still have a lot of neighborhoods who don't have a connection to basic water and wastewater sewer services.”

The county received the federal funds in October 2022 and has since been working on the design and environmental study phases. Despite challenges such as labor shortages and rising costs, Commissioner Holguin says they project construction to completed by the end of the year.

Residents in these neighborhoods have long awaited this development. A 2018 study by a University of Texas at El Paso professor found that 32,000 people in El Paso County lacked sewer service, leading to complaints about odors and other septic system issues. The project promises a sanitary, clean and efficient way to dispose of waste. 

“These projects really are life-changing for these neighborhoods,” Holguin said. “Many of us that live within the city limits of El Paso take some of these basic infrastructure services for granted.”

Holguin also adds that the county has more projects under the federal fund coming in the near future to continue improving water and wastewater services for underserved areas.

The groundbreaking ceremony will start at 9:00 a.m. behind the Lower Valley Water District (1557 FM 1110, Clint, TX 79836).

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UPDATE: Motion passes with a 5 to 3 vote. Representatives Brian Kennedy, Joe Molinar, Art Fierro, Henry Rivera and Chris Canales voting yes. Representatives Josh Acevedo, Cassandra Hernandez and Joe Molinar voting no. As for the next steps, the City Manager and City Attorney will begin the process to put the proposition on the November ballot, it will go back to City Council for final approval.

EL PASO, TX (KVIA) — After 12 years of discussion and setbacks, the future of the Multipurpose Center project may soon be back in the hands of voters. City Council is set to discuss an initiative to put the project on the November ballot, giving El Paso residents a chance to decide the future of the project.

The Multipurpose Center was initially approved under the 2012 Quality of Life Bond. The city currently has $128 million in unsold bonds allocated for the project. However, City Representative Chris Canales, who represents the downtown area, told ABC-7 he believes the original vision for a large indoor arena is no longer feasible with these funds.

Canales emphasizes that the city does not yet have this money, as the bonds remain unsold. He explained that if voters choose to revoke the authority, the city would not incur the debt.

"What voters passed in 2012 was authorizing the city to take on that debt in order to build the project," he said. "Now, the other part of the agenda item deals with the debt that has already been taken out for this project. It's a much smaller amount, and it would just instruct the city attorney and city manager to take the steps they needed to in order to pay that debt off early so that the city is free and clear of anything related to the project."

The most recent proposed site for the Multipurpose Center is the area behind historic Union Depot building. The proposal includes a hybrid arena, with 4,000 seats indoors and 4,000 seats outdoor. However, City Council turned down the proposal, stating the area was too small and did not align with what was promised to voters in 2012. 

Canales placed the item on today’s City Council agenda, “There's no other alternative way forward that the city has put together at this point. And so that's why I thought now is the right time to say it. We should ask the voters whether or not they want to proceed with the project at all,” says Canales.

Representative Brian Kennedy supports the move to put the project back on the ballot. He told ABC-7 there was a lack of transparency back in 2012, “What was originally proposed was a 12,000 to 15,000 seat indoor first class concert sports arena, and that is not even close to possible with the money that's left,” he says. “I don't think there was a whole lot of transparency when they ran the first bond, because they thought the voters would say yes to this. And then if it costs another 100 million, we'll just figure it out. And I'm not a fan of that.”

Kennedy notes that if voters decide against the project, the city could potentially explore new plans, “I will say that that I would hope that we would be allowed to not do this project, but go back and fully flesh out a real arena project with public private, other entities and and see what we can do,” he says.

"Our choices are not to say, well, I want a different project with this. It's a yes or no," Kennedy explained. "Do you want the project we proposed behind Union Depot, or do you want us to stop the project? Because that's all we have left. It's not like, well, what I would like is a 20,000-seat arena with skyboxes and an extra parking lot. No, no, none of that's possible."

The proposal comes at the same time City Council passed the Northeast Sunset Amphitheater, however Canales added that he does not believe the Cohen Entertainment District project affects the future of the Multipurpose Center, “Regardless of what's being built anywhere else, the amount of money that's allocated to to the MPC project, the Downtown Arena project, it's still not enough,” he emphasizes.

If City Council approves the item today, it will begin the process to put the proposition on the November ballot. 

City Council meeting begins at 9:00 a.m. today. Stay with ABC-7 for the latest decision. 

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) — County leaders will decide today whether the Sun Bowl Uplift Project will receive county funding for stadium renovations. The project was not included in the final recommendations by the County Bond Advisory Committee last week.

The $99 million project aims to bring more “A-list” events to the Sun Bowl. UTEP estimates a potential $82 million in tax revenue and $2.06 billion in economic impact over the next 30 years.

County Judge Ricardo Samaniego placed the item on the agenda, he spoke with ABC-7 and said he believes the project will generate revenue for El Paso. "When it's competing against quality of life projects that hit precincts directly, it's very difficult to compete. But I'm asking that we look at it from a business perspective. There's nothing like job creation and economic development," Samaniego told ABC-7.

Despite the project's potential benefits, the county is prioritizing other projects under the General Obligation projects, that would directly impact taxpayers. Some of the projects within the $295 million recommendations, including improvements to parks, water services, and modernizing county facilities.

UTEP Athletic Director Jim Senter told ABC-7 there are some challenges when looking to gain support for the project. "I don't know if enough people know about it and what we're really trying to do and why we're trying to do it. And that's one of the challenges, to get that word and that message out. But we're going to have to try to be more creative," Senter said.

The Commissioners Court meeting will begin at 9:30 a.m. today. Judge Samaniego emphasizes the importance of public comment in this decision and encourages the community to participate.

Commissioners have until August 19 to call for the bond election. If approved, the project will go for voting in November.

Stay with ABC-7 for the latest updates on this decision.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- The El Paso County Economic Development Department has extended the application deadline for the Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI). This program is a call for small businesses that lack access to traditional capital and credit markets.

The HFFI is a financing program designed to improve access to healthy food in low-income, underserved communities across El Paso County, including areas like Socorro, Ysleta, and the Segundo Barrio. The initiative offers grants and low-interest loans for food retail and infrastructure projects, helping local businesses open new outlets or expand existing ones that sell healthy food.

Grants and loans are available for various projects, including building renovations, purchasing new equipment such as freezers, and expanding businesses to be equipped to accept SNAP and WIC food stamps. Some of the initial projects funded in 2020 include Desert Spoon Food Hub, Growing with Sara Farm, and XCF Kitchen.

El Paso County has partnered with UT Health Houston to implement this program, focusing on small businesses that lack access to traditional capital but have the potential to create change in the county's most vulnerable communities.

Eligible applicants include local and national grocery stores, food hubs, farmer's markets, mobile markets, and other food retailers. However, restaurants, cafes, pharmacies with grocery sections, and large department stores are not eligible. Grants typically do not exceed $150,000, and projects should include at least 30-50% of financing or owner equity. All applications will undergo a financial review and must demonstrate a commitment to selling healthy, affordable foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy, and whole grains.

County Commissioner David Stout, who introduced the program, provided a statement to ABC-7, saying in part, "When I introduced the program I was hoping for what we’ve seen - small business success stories that have the benefit of providing access to fresh, healthy foods. I very much encourage anyone who is part of the local networks of growing, distributing, and retailing fresh produce and locally prepared foods to apply for this program."

The deadline to apply is July 31st. Click here for the application.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) — A new study published in the journal NEJM Evidence found that introducing peanuts to infants at an early age significantly reduces the risk of developing peanut allergies later in life. 

Peanut allergies affect nearly 2% of children and adults in the United States, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Allergic reactions can range from mild skin rashes to severe and life-threatening.

The study says that children exposed to peanut products by six months of age have a 75% reduced risk of developing a peanut allergy by age 5. Moreover, by age 12, these children are four times less likely to develop a peanut allergy compared to those who were not introduced to peanuts early.

Leticia Diaz, a registered dietitian at Del Sol Medical Center, spoke to ABC-7 and emphasized the importance of safely introducing peanuts to infants.

“You have to work hand in hand with the pediatrician before trying to introduce any type of allergen to your baby,” Diaz said. “You need to double check if your baby has shown to you that developmental stage they need to be to be prepared for solids, usually between 4 to 6 months. Some babies may take a little bit longer, some of them will be ready earlier.”

The recommended method involves mixing a small amount of peanut butter, roughly the size of a pea, into baby food. This helps ensure the texture is safe for the baby, reducing the risk of choking.

The study’s findings align with guidelines from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, which state that a child with no eczema or food allergies can have age-appropriate peanut-containing foods introduced into their diet at home starting around six months of age. However, children with severe eczema or egg allergies should be introduced to peanut products only after consulting with a doctor.

Recognizing the signs of an allergic reaction is equally important. Symptoms can appear within minutes to two hours after consuming a peanut product and may include wheezing, severe hives, skin rash, and redness.

“Babies are so sensitive to different factors sometimes,” emphasizes Diaz. “Going more in details with your pediatrician can give you a precise guideline how to recognize these symptoms.”

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) — The City of El Paso has launched a series of workshops as part of the beginning stages to update the comprehensive plan, Envision El Paso. These workshops are meant to gather residents’ input on priorities, concerns, and aspirations for the community.

Envision El Paso is an update the 2012 comprehensive plan, a long-term framework that guides the city's growth and development. These updates happen every 10 to 12 years to ensure it aligns with current community needs and priorities.

At the workshops, residents are invited to participate in various activities to provide feedback. Envision El Paso is taking a dive into five key themes: housing affordability, fiscal responsibility, economic development, mobility choice, and equity.

“Equity has actually been a big priority,” Kasi Schnell, Capital Planning Project Manager told ABC-7. “I think it's like a number two as to which is most important. I think people are really seeing that as a main driver to how to supporting how decisions get made.”

The workshops will include several interactive stations, including:

• Educational boards to explain the purpose and importance of a comprehensive plan.
• Mapping activity for residents to share ideas for developments and projects across different neighborhoods.
• Discussion board for residents to define equity and an opportunity to share their stories about living in El Paso.  
• Children’s visioning activity that is open to all ages, this station allows participants to draw their ideal city, imagining what they’d like to see in El Paso’s future.

The community can also provide feedback through an online survey. The in-person workshops will continue through the rest of this month and next, offering multiple opportunities for residents to get involved.

Workshop Series Schedule

All workshops will run from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

• July 10: Pavo Real Recreation Center, 9301 Alameda
• July 18: Valle Bajo Community Center, 7380 Alameda
• July 24: Wayne Thornton Community Center at Grandview, 3134 Jefferson
• July 25: Chamizal Community Center, 2119 Cypress
• August 7 Sun Metro Northgate Transit Center, 9348 Dyer
• August 8: The Beast Urban Park Recreation Center, 13501 Jason Crandall
• August 21: Don Haskins Recreation Center,7400 High Ridge
• August 22: Marty Robbins Recreation Center, 11620 Vista Del Sol

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- El Paso Mayor and City Council are holding budget workshops to discuss the Fiscal Year 2025 budget, which includes significant changes and investments for the city.

“These are very important days,” Chief Financial Officer Robert Cortinas told ABC-7. “We discuss the budget all year long, but this is really the kickoff of showing what the actual 2025 budget will look like. It includes talking about the property tax rate, all the different services included, new facilities coming aligned, and the city’s plans to address priorities known from city council and community engagement.”

Interim City Manager Cary Westin and Chief Financial Officer Robert Cortinas presented a preliminary budget that proposes a property tax rate reduction to 77.8 cents, a four-cent decrease from the current rate. Cortinas says this reduction is due to an increase in property valuations, both residential and commercial.

The final tax rates will be decided on August 1 when City Council receives certified property values. Cortinas noted that the levels of decrease seen in the last couple of years are 2 to 3 times above the normal average, but he says they know this won’t last forever. “We know that property values will eventually start to taper off, we’ve already started to see a little bit of that. It’s important to not look at the budget in just a one-year glance but to ensure decisions made for this upcoming year don’t have negative consequences down the line,” said Cortinas.

The proposed city budget aligns with the City Council’s strategic plan and responds to community priorities gathered from surveys and meetings. In addition to tax rate discussions, city leaders are hearing from all the city departments and their initiatives for the upcoming year. Some of the major investments are in public safety and improving street infrastructure.

“The police and fire departments are two of our largest departments, making up almost 60 percent of the overall general fund budget,” Cortinas explained. This includes funding for several police academies, the opening of a new fire station, and the Eastside Regional Command Center.

Significant funds are also allocated for street improvements. The budget sets $13.5 million to street resurfacing projects and $750,000 for ADA compliance upgrades.

“Public safety and streets are really at the top, followed by our quality of life services,” Cortinas said. “We are also heavily focused on our workforce, it's important that the city is being proactive to ensure we're providing competitive wages, providing strong benefits to not only retain the employees that we have, but also to be attractive as an employer to be able to recruit, fill a lot of the vacancies that we have.”

A public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2025 budget is scheduled for August 13. The workshop meetings this week start at 9:00 a.m. and are expected to continue through Wednesday, July 10. Click here to watch the livestream.

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LAS CRUCES, NM (KVIA) -- Today bicyclists in Las Cruces met for their monthly “Share the Road Visibility Ride.” The event aims to raise awareness about the benefits of bicycling and promote safety for both cyclists and motorists.

ABC-7 spoke to George Pearson, vice president Velo Cruces, the Las Cruces biking advocacy group, who highlighted all the benefits that come with commuting by bike to work.

Just riding one day a week can help you cut 20% of your weekly fuel and save vehicle maintenance expenses. You can fight pollution by using emission free transportation. Biking helps you stay fit and use your commuter time as your workout instead of paying for a gym. “We have an obesity and diabetes crisis in the United States, and just even once a week would be so much helpful in improving people's health,” says Pearson. 

The Visibility Ride, which began in December 2008, happens on the second Monday of each month. “We want to raise awareness that bicyclists are valid users of the road, that they are traffic just like other vehicles,” says Pearson. “So we ride once a month to help promote that idea. And so all the bicyclists are visible, and we follow the rules of the road.”

In addition to promoting bicycling benefits, the event emphasizes road safety. Pearson advises cyclists to be predictable and visible, obeying traffic laws and using lights and bright clothing, especially at night. Drivers are reminded to be patient, especially at intersections where bike lanes might disappear. “So it's just being aware. Remember that the cyclists, they're not just the randos out there that you don't know. They're somebody's father. There's somebody's brother,” emphasizes Pearson.

The City of Las Cruces is also working to improve bicycling infrastructure. The Safe Streets for All grant will help fund the city's active transportation plan, which aims to enhance bicycle facilities and safety. These efforts include new trails and pilot projects designed to make biking more accessible and secure.

The ride starts at 7:15 a.m. at the Las Cruces Railroad Museum. The route includes Las Cruces Avenue, Espina Street, Kansas Street, Solano Drive, and University Avenue, ending at Grounded, a coffee shop at the corner of Main Street and Las Cruces Avenue. Participants are encouraged to wear helmets and follow traffic rules. Those unable to join the ride can meet at Grounded for coffee around 8:00 a.m.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- Happy Fourth of July! As you get ready for your festivities later today, El Paso Fire Department is emphasizing the importance of safety during celebrations involving fireworks and grilling. 

As a reminder, fireworks are prohibited within the city limits of El Paso and violators can face a $500 fine. Fireworks allowed in certain areas of the county, such as Horizon, Montana Vista, West Valley, and Canutillo, cannot have sticks or fins. Make sure to check local ordinances before using fireworks in any location.

ABC-7 spoke to Enrique Duenas, Public Affairs Manager for El Paso Fire Department who is urging the community to be careful, “Fireworks are actually dangerous for both the person using them and for the person around them, and for the environment around them,” he says.

El Paso Fire says firework injuries are one of the leading causes of medical emergencies during Fourth of July celebrations. The most common injuries include severe skin burns, eye injuries and hearing loss. Dueñas says children are most often the ones injured, ”Sometimes the children are popping fireworks outside and suddenly the palm tree is on fire and then the fire starts spreading through the house. So we've seen it before. We've seen a lot of children blowing up their own fingers.” 

Dueñas strongly recommends going to professional fireworks display, El Paso offers several options, including events at local churches and Ascarate Park.

Grilling is also a popular activity during the Fourth of July, but it comes with its own set of safety concerns. The fire department advises keeping grills at least six to seven feet away from the house, trees, and any overhanging structures to prevent flare-ups from spreading. To avoid accidents, create a child and pet-free zone around the grill. 

When you’re done grilling, make sure coals are completely cooled and then wrap them in aluminum before throwing them away, this will prevent any remaining embers from reigniting.

"If you have a grease fire, do not use water, as it can make the fire worse," Dueñas emphasized. "Have a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand nearby to put out any flames."

Dueñas says if you notice a fire in your grill, and it’s barely starting, if you can turn it off safely, do so. However, if you notice the fire starts spreading, “The best course of action is just to get your family and friends get out of the house, make sure everyone is accounted for and from a safe area dial 911,” he says.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- As the Fourth of July approaches, El Paso Animal Services is reminding pet owners of the potential dangers that holiday festivities can pose to their furry friends. Fireworks and large gatherings can be stressful and potentially dangerous for pets.

One of the most crucial steps to ensure a pet's safety is to keep them indoors during fireworks. The loud noises can scare pets, leading them to run away.

ABC-7 spoke to Julie Newbold, Public Affairs Coordinator for El Paso Animal Services, who recommends setting up a secure “safe space” like a bathroom, spare bedroom, or garage. These spaces should be away from doors and windows to prevent pets from escaping. Putting their favorite toys, blankets, and some calming music in the “safe space” can also help reduce their stress.

Another essential precaution is to make sure a pet’s microchip information and ID tags on their collars are up to date. "The Fourth of July creates a recipe for disaster," Newbold explained. "It's not only the fireworks, but it's also guests coming over, friends coming over. That leaves doors open, gates open. Things happen by accident all the time."

Owners are also encouraged to register pets on PetcoLoveLost.org ahead of the festivities. This is a central database designed to help connect lost pets to their owners.

If a pet does go missing, Newbold says the first step is to file a lost pet report on the El Paso Animal Services website and notify your microchip company. Social media can also be a powerful tool, so posting on platforms like Facebook and Nextdoor can increase the chances of locating your lost pet.

If you find a dog, El Paso Animal Services is asking the community to help. “There is a much higher percentage, about 80%, for a pet to be reunited back home with their owners if they stay in their community where they're found, whereas if they come to the shelter, their chances of being reunited decreases as low as 20%,” emphasizes Newbold.

Gatherings also include holiday foods, which can be harmful to pets. El Paso Animal Services says to keep them away from the barbecue, and make sure they don't consume any human food, especially items containing alcohol, chocolate, or other toxic ingredients. “Even if it is something that you think your pet has eaten in the past before, you never know what your friends might have put into the food. Maybe they put a bunch of garlic or onions or something like that, which are all toxic to pets,” says Newbold.

They also want to remind owners that the summer heat can be dangerous for pets. Newbold says overheating can cause their organs to shut down, “If you do start noticing signs of overheating, which again, it's excessive panting, excessive drooling, their tongues showing out to be a really bright color red. Try to bring your pet into a shaded area. Give them cool water gradually. You can also put a cool towel over top of them. But try your best to try to get them to a veterinarian as soon as possible.”

El Paso Animal Services expects more pets to enter their care during the Fourth of July festivities. They continue to encourage the community to consider adopting or fostering a pet. Both options are free, and all necessary supplies and medical care are provided.

If a pet needs to be microchipped, visit ElPasoAnimalServices.org/calendar for upcoming free microchipping clinics.

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Update: City Council passed the measures 4-3.

EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- City Council is set to vote on an agreement today that will move forward the construction of the Sunset Amphitheater, a major entertainment venue at the Cohen Entertainment District in Northeast El Paso.

The item on today’s agenda will authorize the City Manager to sign an agreement with Notes Live Inc., the project partner. This agreement includes the sale of a 17-acre property located at the northeast corner of Cohen Avenue and Gateway Boulevard North.

The contract with Notes Live Inc. includes a commitment from the company to invest at least $80 million in the project and to host at least 40 national touring events each year. 

ABC-7 spoke to Karina Brasgalla, Interim Director for the Economic and International Development Department, who explained the city will provide nearly $31 million in incentives in return, including property tax rebates, sales and use tax rebates, and fee waivers. These incentives are expected to be recovered within 20 years, with the land conveyance cost estimated to be recovered within seven years.

The city council vote set for today follows a month-long delay, pending the city's Economic and International Development Department parking and traffic study to ensure both the city and Notes Live understood the project boundaries and improvement costs.

“One of the big goals of the Cohen Entertainment district was to make sure that we have kind of year round all day activities. So not just on a concert night. We don't want it to be completely dead. We want there to be a wide variety of kind of family and entertainment options that folks can go to,” said Brasgalla. 

The project is anticipated to generate a $5.4 billion economic impact over 20 years, with both direct and indirect effects.

Direct impacts include sales taxes collected from purchases at the venue, benefiting the city, county, and school districts. 

Indirect impacts come from visitors spending money on hotels, restaurants, and other activities, as well as the jobs created by the amphitheater. It will also include a portion of local sales tax that will support Sun Metro and utility franchise fees, creating multiple revenue streams for the city and offsetting the burden on residential taxpayers.

If the agreement is signed today, it will put the amphitheater on track to open by March 2026.

Stay with ABC-7 for updates on the City Council's decision and further developments on the Sunset Amphitheater project.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- The City of El Paso has initiated a new survey to gather public input for the updated comprehensive plan, “Envision El Paso.” This aims to understand the community's priorities, concerns, and aspirations to shape future policies and projects.

The plan is an update to the 2011 comprehensive plan, “Plan El Paso.” The 2012 Quality of Life Bond was approved under this plan which led to significant projects, including the new Children’s Museum, La Nube.

“Envision El Paso” is still in the beginning stages. Alex Hoffman the City’s Capital Improvement Department assistant director told ABC-7 some of the key themes already coming from public feedback include fiscal sustainability and housing affordability.

“We know that residents care a lot about their taxes and making sure that we are being as smart as we can in terms of delivering services that people can afford. Part of the way we ensure this is by making sure that growth and development pay for themselves,” Hoffman said.

The updated plan aims to reflect the collective vision of El Paso residents. The city projects the plan to be adopted in December 2025, as the entire project takes about 18 months and involves multiple stages of community input.

Currently, the City’s Capital Improvement Department is working with their consultant on the first deliverable, the Equity Framework.

“We're going to be working with residents to define what equity means to El Paso. Then, we'll make policy recommendations to ensure we deliver services equitably. People will be able to see how their input is incorporated into a tangible deliverable,” Hoffman said. 

Click here to fill out the survey. 

The City will host in-person workshops for residents to learn more, you can find those events listed here. 

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RUIDOSO, NM (KVIA) -- Many Ruidoso homeowners are now facing the harsh reality of significant property loss and understanding the insurance claims process is crucial for those affected.

Local insurance agent, Ernesto Gonzalez spoke to ABC-7 and emphasized the importance of filing insurance claims as quickly as possible. He says this is the primary step in order to expedite the return. Gonzalez says insurance companies typically respond by scheduling an appointment for an adjuster to assess the damage.

The return for each homeowner will be different, Gonzalez says the type of insurance coverage of a homeowner plays a significant role. “In the particular case of the fires that are going down in New Mexico, there's a lot of cabins out there that are seasonal. There's a lot of rentals. Obviously, there's quite a few that are actual homesteads. Each particular coverage depends on what the property is used for."

Gonzalez explained the categories of coverage depending the use of the property: 

Homestead Coverage: He says this is the broadest form of coverage which will typically include the structure, furniture, jewelry, appliances, and what's known as loss of use coverage. Loss of use coverage provides compensation for additional living expenses while the property is being repaired or rebuilt.

Seasonal Cabins and Rentals: Properties that are not primary residences often have different types of coverage. Seasonal cabins may lean more towards commercial-type policies. The coverage for these properties can vary widely and may not be as comprehensive as homestead policies.

Gonzalez also explained the difference between two common types of settlements:

Total Replacement Cost: This coverage will replace the full structure minus the deductible.

Actual Cash Value Settlement: This option reimburses homeowners for the current value of the property, factoring in depreciation over time. With this, “you may end up having to pick up some of the expenses yourself," Gonzalez noted.

One major misconception among homeowners is the assumption that all insurance policies provide comprehensive coverage. "Some people will buy a limited plan and think that it covers everything, and it doesn't," Gonzalez said. 

To best prepare for unexpected natural disasters like the wildfires, he advises homeowners to review their policies annually to ensure they have the best possible coverage. “If you added space to the property from one year to the next. You might want to need to get that added and covered,” he added. 

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Update: Village of Ruidoso officials confirm to ABC-7 that no one is unaccounted for now.

Update: Village of Ruidoso officials have updated the number of unaccounted for people to 11.

Update: The mayor of Ruidoso says there are 29 people unaccounted for right now. ABC-7 is working to learn more.

RUIDOSO, NM (KVIA) -- As evacuation notices have been lifted in Ruidoso, Urban Search and Rescue crews are intensifying their search for human remains. Officials say two people have been confirmed dead from South Fork and Salt fires, with more individuals potentially unaccounted for. 

“No entry/exclusion" zones are in place, completely blocking public access, as they are now considered crime scenes.

Our news affiliate spoke to Mayor Lynn Crawford, “The hazards and danger are unbelievable," he said, urging residents to be careful when going back. "You have a bunch of dead trees that are standing and some of them are falling from the rain and the ash because of the erosion already and the mudslides and just how treacherous it is to get up some of these streets. They're moving through those exclusion zones as fast as possible so that families can get in."

Mayor Crawford also told KOAT that health professionals will be on the ground to assist those impacted by the fires. Tens of thousands of acres have been burned, and crews are continuing to battle the flames.

"We need to make sure that we don't contaminate the scene any more than it already is," said Mayor Crawford. "If the dog has a hit and then they actually find human remains, a forensics team brought in from the state police becomes a crime zone so that they can identify the body."

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RUIDOSO, NM (KVIA) -- As residents of Ruidoso begin returning to their homes today, New Mexico officials have announced that Federal Aid Disaster aid is now available to those impacted by the wildfires. 

Applications for FEMA can be completed online at www.disasterassistance.gov or by calling the FEMA application helpline at 800-621-3362. A FEMA spokesperson says this will help with immediate costs, “We have things like displacement assistance, of course, that would occur if you were evacuated and then you had to pay for some place to stay or if you go back and your home has had some damage that you lost, all your food and so forth.”

FEMA encourages residents to apply online, as this is the fastest way. FEMA teams will also be available in person at the Roswell Convention Center, that’s open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m

Various state agencies will also be at the center to assist with applications for SNAP benefits, unemployment, WIC, insurance claims, Medicaid, and peer support. 

FEMA says they are also working with state and county officials to reimburse long-term recovery costs such as debris removal and damage to drinking water systems.

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham highlighted the community's efforts to continue supporting those in need with donations, "All nonprofits and certainly the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico has led for the rest of the state getting donations. There's a ton of benefits that we need in the hands of individuals. They couldn't go to work. They have to pay their bills. Know they don't have groceries, they don't have any other supplies. We want that to be cared for as many people as quickly as we can," she said.

Mayor Lynn Crawford says that temporary housing will be available for residents returning home today, "They will have nowhere else to go. They're out of money. Their emotions are shot. So we need to be there to support them. And we're going to have the housing hopefully have money to see this next week. And then we're working on longer-term solutions and we'll be looking around other parts of the community, the village, homes, properties several times,” said Mayor Crawford.

As part of the Federal disaster aid, Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is now available for individuals in Lincoln County and the Mescalero Apache Tribe who lost their jobs due to the fires. 

To apply, individuals must first file for Standard Unemployment Insurance online at jobs.state.nm.us, by calling 1-877-664-6984, or at a Workforce Connection Center. After an individual receives notice that they are ineligible for standard benefits, they can then apply for DUA by phone or in person. 

Applications must be submitted by August 19, 2024, with proof of employment required within 21 days of filing a claim.

DUA benefits will cover unemployment from June 23, 2024, to December 21, 2024, as long as it remains a direct result of the disaster.

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RUIDOSO, NM (KVIA) -- Thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate their homes due to the ongoing wildfires in New Mexico, leaving many feeling scared and vulnerable. The sudden and unexpected nature of these evacuations can have a profound impact on mental health, leading to conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

ABC-7 spoke to Kristen Weindorf, associate director of the Crisis Management Team at Emergence Health Network who says in emergency situations like these, residents often have little time to prepare, adding to the trauma of leaving behind their homes and belongings.

“More than likely, what happens is their memory, it fades. So maybe they've gotten out of Ruidoso and into El Paso when they realize, oh, my gosh, I forgot my work computer, I forgot my cell phone or whatever the case may be, and so that causes an additional stress to them, not only about their home and their belongings, but whatever they may have lost,” Weindorf explains.

Weindorf says it's crucial for people to lean on each other during these times. Having a support system can provide the extra assistance during the ongoing crisis. "We need to avoid saying things like, 'It could have been worse,'" she adds. "That’s not very helpful because, for many, this is the worst-case scenario. It’s important to meet them where they’re at."

First responders also face their own set of challenges. Firefighters not only face the physical challenges of battling the blaze, but these situations also take a psychological toll. The reality of facing such intense and unpredictable situations can lead to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness.

Weindorf notes that everyone impacted by the fires, including firefighters, often experience a state of shock. She says symptoms of PTSD can surface later, "It can show up anywhere from that day, maybe at the end of their shift, two weeks later, or a year later. A lot of times people can suppress their feelings, and maybe something will happen that triggers their memory. They might have a flashback and realize they haven’t processed the experience."

Emergence Health Network encourages anyone affected to reach out to mental health professionals. They have a 24/7 crisis clinic available and additional support can be accessed through the National Hotline at 988.

To talk to mental health counselors, you can call the New Mexico Crisis and Access Line at 1-855-NMCRISIS (662-7474).

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RUIDOSO, NM (KVIA) -- New Mexico officials reported Wednesday that two people have died as a result of the South Fork Fire. The first death was confirmed by the New Mexico Governor's Office and identified as 60-year-old Patrick Pearson.

Patrick Pearson was living in Ruidoso at the time and had been a musician in New Mexico for 35 years. He is described by his family as loving and caring with a heart of gold. Pearson's sudden death has left his loved ones in shock.

Our news partners, KOAT, spoke to his son, Zach Pearson, who is shocked by the news, “My dad was a simple man. You know, he didn't need much to make him happy,” he said. “It's still unbelievable that this has happened. All I know is my dad is gone now.”

Patrick Pearson had been staying at the Swiss Chalet Inn when the wildfires broke out. His family says they desperately tried to locate him as soon as they heard of the fires. “Once we found out where the fire was and the direction it looked like it was going, my sisters, my mom, and I started contacting shelters in Roswell. We attempted to contact him in Capitan, but nobody was able to confirm whether or not he was there,” Pearson recounted.

Patrick, who was recovering from an injury, faced difficulties when evacuating. “He was trying to get away from the fires as fast as he could, but with a broken leg and a brace, using a walker, trying to carry what he could. You know, it's heartbreaking,” said Pearson.

His family is now struggling to cope with the loss, but they find comfort in remembering Patrick's passion for music. “He's got one of the best voices New Mexico has ever heard,” his son said.

Patrick Pearson’s legacy lives on through his music, and his voice will be remembered by many. A friend of Patrick told KOAT that Patrick was still playing music until just last Saturday.

The South Fork Fire and Salt Fire continue to be a significant threat, and authorities are urging residents to stay alert and follow evacuation orders as necessary.

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EL PASO, TX (KVIA) -- As wildfires continue to ravage the Mescalero Reservation and Ruidoso area, thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate. In response, local organizations and residents are coming together to provide essential support through donations.

Urgently Needed Items:

• Non-perishable foods
• Bottled water
• Baby supplies
• Dog and cat food
• Clothing
• Blankets
• Toiletries

Donation Drop-Off Locations:

Socorro:

• City of Socorro: 705 Texas Ave.
• The Dog Stop: 9895 Alameda, Suite 109

Las Cruces:

• Southern New Mexico Correctional Facility: 1983 Joe R. Silva Boulevard

Probation and Parole Offices in Southern New Mexico:

• Las Cruces: 2635 West Picacho
• Alamogordo: 1408 8th Street
• Deming: 920 South Silver
• Truth or Consequences: 411 East 3rd St. Suite 2

Roswell, NM:

Thousands of people have evacuated to Roswell, New Mexico. If you are in this area, you can drop off donations in person at the Roswell National Guard Armory (1 W Earl Cummings Loop). New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham says those donations will be divided among all the different evacuation centers.

Online:

If you would like to make a monetary donation online, you can visit the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico. 

The Mescalero Apache Tribe has set up a GoFundMe to help support the Mescalero Apache Tribe's Fire Relief. Click here to donate.

If you or someone you know is offering assistance and would like to spread the word, please email our newsroom at news@kvia.com and we'll update this story.

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