El Paso Zoo Weather Status

Due to deteriorating weather conditions, the City of El Paso will be closing down

all non-essential services as of now.  

El Paso Zoo is now closed.

City of El Paso Update -Animal services & Parks & Recreation

Due to deteriorating weather conditions, the City of El Paso will be closing down

all non-essential services as of now.  

Animal Services

The Animal Shelter at 5001 Fred Wilson is closed. Animal services officers will continue to respond to calls as necessary.

Parks & Recreation

The following facilities are closed

Don  Haskins Recreation Center
Galatzan Recreation Center
Polly Harris Senior Center
Leo Cancellare Aquatic Center

All other facilities remain open at this time as we continue to monitor weather conditions

Sun Metro Detours for Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Parade

El Paso, Texas—The Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Parade will require Sun Metro to detour 12 routes beginning at about 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 3.

Sun Metro staff will monitor the impacted area to help passengers, and drivers will make courtesy stops as required.

Route 4 Detour

Buses traveling outbound, north on El Paso Street will turn right onto Paisano, left onto St. Vrain and onto Virginia, right onto Magoffin returning to the regular route.

Buses traveling inbound, north on Campbell will turn left onto Paisano, right onto Santa Fe, right onto Franklin, left onto Stanton returning to the regular route.

There will be no service to the San Antonio and Mesa intersection; and the San Antonio Plaza.

Route 9 Detour

Buses traveling outbound, south on Santa Fe will not turn left on Franklin, but instead continue on Santa Fe and turn left onto Paisano, left onto St. Vrain and onto Virginia, right onto Magoffin, right onto Brown, right onto Olive, left onto Noble, right onto San Antonio, left onto St. Vrain, right onto Paisano, left onto Stanton returning to the regular route.

The detour will not allow for service at the Myrtle and Stanton intersection, the Oregon and Texas intersection, and the Kansas and Franklin intersection.

Routes 22 and 62 Detour

Buses traveling outbound from the Downtown Transfer Center from Fourth will turn left onto Oregon, right onto Paisano, left onto St. Vrain and onto Virginia, right onto Magoffin returning to the regular route.

Buses traveling inbound, west on Myrtle will turn left onto Virginia and onto St. Vrain, right onto Paisano, left onto Santa Fe and into the Downtown Transfer Center.

The detour will not allow for service at the Myrtle and Stanton intersection; and the Oregon and Texas intersection.

Routes 34, 35, 36 and 50 Detour

Buses traveling outbound from the Downtown Transfer Center will turn left onto Santa Fe, right onto Franklin, left onto Mesa returning to the regular route.

Buses traveling inbound, south on Oregon will turn right onto Franklin, left onto Santa Fe and into the Downtown Transfer Center.

The detour will not allow for service at the Oregon and Texas intersection.

Routes 42 and 59 Detour

Buses traveling inbound, west on Missouri travel directly to Santa Fe and turn left onto Santa Fe and into the Downtown Transfer Center.

The detour will not allow for service at the Myrtle and Stanton intersection; and the Oregon and Texas intersection. The buses will use stops along Missouri and Santa Fe for courtesy stops.

Routes 61 and 66 Detour

Buses traveling outbound, east on Paisano will turn left onto St. Vrain, right onto Magoffin, left onto Octavia, right onto Texas returning to the regular route.

Buses traveling inbound, west on Texas will turn left onto Octavia, right onto Myrtle, left onto Virginia and onto St. Vrain, right onto Paisano, left onto Santa Fe and into the Downtown Transfer Center.

The detour will not allow for service at the Oregon and Texas and Myrtle and Stanton intersection, and the San Antonio Plaza.

For more information, visit www.sunmetro.net or call (915)533-3333. Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/sunmetro.

Mayor Cook’s Annual Thanksgiving Dinner

Who: Mayor & Mrs. Cook

What: Will hold the 7^th Annual Thanksgiving Dinner for the homeless & needy

When: Thursday, November 24, 2011

  10am- 3pm

Where:     Judson F. Williams Convention Center 

Quick facts

Mayors Thanksgiving began in 2005

Amount of food prepared:

2005 - 2,000 people

2006 - 3,000 people 

2007 & 2008- 5,000 people 

2009- 6,000 people

2010 - 6,000 people

Volunteers- over 300 

Sun Metro provides free bus service on Thanksgiving Day 

Rescue Mission prepares 300 turkeys

Traviezos 3rd Annual Benefit Run

The Traviezos will be holding their 3rd Annual Benefit Run for the Children's Miracle Network.Saturday November 12, 2011 starting at Hope & Anchor (registration 12pm-2pm) and ending at the Livery Stables in Horizon.

THANKSGIVING ADOPT-A-SOLDIER PROGRAM STARTS NOV 2

FORT BLISS, Texas — Fort Bliss officials are pleased to inform the general public that the popular Adopt-A-Soldier program will begin taking requests/reservations on Wednesday, Nov. 2 through Nov. 20.

If you are interested in participating in the program and adopting a Soldier for the Thanksgiving Holiday please go to the Fort Bliss web site http://www.bliss.army.mil ; look for the bouncing Turkey and click it to make a reservation. Soldiers will also go to the same site and register themselves for adoption.

Military families of deployed personnel may also participate in the adoptions.

Adoptors can specify the amount of Soldiers and/or family size they would like to adopt.

If you don’t have a computer, you may request a Soldier by calling 915-744-8402/8498.

Burglary of Vehicles and Auto Theft Prevention Alert

Please be advised of an increase of Burglary of Vehicles and Automobile Thefts at various eastside El Paso apartment parking lots, shopping centers, restaurants, and gyms. These crimes occur during various hours. The El Paso Police Department reminds you and your family to remainalert and to practice Pro-Active Crime Prevention measures to help reduce the odds of you becoming a victim of crime. We also request you share this information with your family.
You can be an effective Crime Stopper if you:

Always lock your vehicle and keep your vehicle windows rolled up;
Use an anti-theft device such as a burglar alarm or a steering wheel lock;Do not leave any packages, electronics, or other valuables in plain sight;
Secure your valuables in your vehicle’s trunk or in an out of sight storage;
Park your vehicle in a secured lighted area;Report suspicious activity or individuals to the El Paso Police DepartmentNon-Emergency number 832-4400 or call 911.

These Crimes are Crimes of opportunity. When you practice these tips youreduce the opportunity.

El Paso Community College statement

On October 28th El Paso Community College (EPCC) learned that a breach into a public facing web server was committed. We have taken immediate action and secured our systems and have turned all the information over to the FBI Cyber Crime unit.  

As a precautionary measure, El Paso Community College is sending notification to students who may have been affected.  EPCC is committed to safeguarding students' personal information and protecting their privacy.  Full measures are being taken to continue this effort.

6th ANNUAL BOO AT THE ZOO

EL PASO ZOO CELEBRATES HALLOWEEN WITH

 6^th ANNUAL BOO AT THE ZOO ON OCT. 29 & 30

Trick-or-Treating, Pumpkin Squishin’, and Fun for the Whole Family

What:           El Paso’s wildest trick-or-treat in town will be at Robert Bonaventure Presents Boo at the Zoo. Kids will enjoy candy stations, music, a maze, Creepy Crawly Critter Corner (backlight room with bugs), costume parade at 1:45 p.m. daily, pumpkin bowling, over 20 animal enrichment activities each day and much more. Visitors will also get to watch as zoo animals get pumpkins to celebrate- they love to squish them before they eat them!  Boo at the Zoo provides a safe place for children to trick-or-treat and allows families to celebrate together in a fun environment.  Activities and candy stations are provided at no cost with paid admission. First 1,000 kids each day will receive a Halloween bag compliments of Sonic Drive-Ins.

                     Boo at the Zoo is presented by Robert Bonaventure and supported by other sponsors – Banes General Contractors Inc, Mini of El Paso and Quality Fruit & Vegetable Co.

When:          Saturday, October 29

                     10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

                     Schedule of activities will be provided at entrance.

Where:        El Paso Zoo, 4001 E. Paisano, El Paso, TX 79905

National Lights On Afterschool Program Celebration

The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department will host a National Lights on Afterschool Program Celebration at 5:00 p.m. on October 20, 2011 at Thomas Manor Elementary School, 7900 Jersey St. Guest speaker will be City Council Representative Steve Ortega.

          The Lights on Celebration is in the 12^th year of existence as a way to highlight the many business and civic partners and volunteers around the country that make this program a success. On the local level Afterschool programs keep children safe, help working families and also inspire learning.

          The Parks and Recreation Department administers afterschool programs at the following public schools in the city, Ascarate, Thomas Manor, Burleson, Coldwell, Cooley, Crosby, Dowell, Moreno, Roberts, Rusk, Stanton and Vilas.

          Recreation Centers offering the afterschool programs are Armijo, Carolina, Chihuahuita, Don Haskins, Galatzan, Gary del Palacio, Leona Ford Washington, Marty Robbins, Nolan Richardson, Pat O’Rourke, Pavo Real, Rae Gilmore, San Juan, Seville and Veterans Centers.                  

          The Braden Aboud Foundation has donated monies to many civic causes in the community including the Parks and Recreation After School Program. Braden Aboud a popular student at Lincoln Middle School passed away in January of 2007 and his family created the Braden Aboud Foundation shortly thereafter.

          El Paso Parks and Recreation Director Nanette Smejkal will be a guest speaker along with Rep. Ortega and Marcelino Franco, Principal, Thomas Manor Elementary School. 

Tom Lea and the Indian People of the Southwest

The El Paso Museum of Archaeology

in collaboration with the Tom Lea Institute

Presents

Tom Lea and the Indian People of the Southwest

 by Nick Houser, Anthropologist

A Tom Lea Month Program

Sunday, October 9, 2011, 2:00 p.m.

Throughout his life, Tom Lea studied the ways of Southwest Indians, producing in several paintings.  Nick Houser will explore for the audience what some of these paintings tell viewers about of the lives of Native Americans in the Southwest.           

Mr. Houser has conducted historical research for the Tigua Indians, created exhibits for museums and cultural centers, and has worked with over 36 Native American communities in the American Southwest and Latin America.

EPCC TO HOLD “BUDDY WALK” TO RAISE FUNDS FOR DOWN SYNDROME CHARITIES

El Paso Community College Diversity Programs will hold its second “Buddy Walk” at 10 a.m., Saturday, October 1 at the college’s Valle Verde Campus. The walk is open to the public.

The event will raise funds to provide scholarships for students with disabilities, the Down Syndrome Association of El Paso and the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). The NDSS is an organization that offers support to people with Down Syndrome and their families. Down Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that occurs one in every 733 births in the United States. NDSS is the national advocate for the acceptance and the inclusion of people with Down Syndrome as valued members of society and the community. 

A whole family (max of four) can walk a mile in this charitable event for $40, individual participation is $20 and senior citizens (over 65), EPCC students and military personnel pay $10. All paid participants receive an event t-shirt.

Individuals can register in advance at any EPCC cashier’s office or at 9 a.m. the morning of the event. It’s fun with a purpose! Participants will stroll around the Valle Verde Campus with friends and family to the sound of live music and other entertainment. Refreshments and food will also be available. In addition, EPCC will raffle prizes among participants holding a paid ticket. 

Additional information: EPCC Marketing and Community Relations at 831-6531.

College Announces Official Sponsors and Partners for TRobo, First Annual Robotics Competition & Geek Fest

September 26, 2011- El Paso, Texas Western Technical College and the Department of Electronic Engineering Technology, today announced that INXI, EPCOM, Time Warner Cable’s- Connect a Million Minds, Microtek, Lowe’s, Peter Piper Pizza, Entravision Communications, E.P. Mass Media Advertising, and Costco have signed on as Official Sponsors for the first annual TRobo Competition and Geekfest to be held at the Branch Campus on October 15, 2011 from 8 a.m.- 5 p.m., in El Paso.

Ten area high school robotic teams have worked alongside their teachers, instructors and students from Western Technical College, as they ready themselves to compete at the first annual TROBO competition, thanks to the support of TRobo Sponsors. “We’re honored to welcome INX, EPCOM, Time Warner Cable’s- Connect a Million Minds, Microtek, Lowe’s, Peter Piper Pizza, Entravision Communications, E.P. Mass Media Advertising , and Costco as distinguished organizations that recognize the importance of supporting our future leaders in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM),” said Randy Kuykendall, Chief Executive Officer, Western Technical College. “Their support, and the collective support of all of our participating organizations,  ensure that local high school students’ efforts in science and technology are celebrated and rewarded on a local stage.”

Kelcey M. Wells, Communications Specialist with Time Warner Cable says of their sponsorship, “Time Warner Cable’s Connect a Million Minds is proud to sponsor an event that enhances STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) in young minds. Connect a Million Minds aims to support events that inspire students to develop the STEM skills they need to become the problem solvers of tomorrow. The T-ROBO competition is the perfect opportunity for local students to spread their STEM wings.”

In addition to INX, EPCOM, Time Warner Cable’s- Connect a Million Minds, Microtek, Lowes, Peter Piper Pizza, Entravision Communications, E.P. Mass Media Advertising and Costco as supporting Sponsors for the first annual TRobo competition, participating partners in the accompanying all day GeekFest include: USA REC, El Paso Police Department Bob Squad, US Army Avenger Unit, US Army Explosive Ordinance and Demolition Unit, The Hams of W5ES El Paso Amateur Radio Club, and several local bands to be announced at a later date. TRobo & Geekfest will be held at the Branch Campus located at 9451 Diana on October 15, 2011 from 8 a.m.- 5p.m. in El Paso. There is no entry fee to the public.

Lions Club Rap Video "Rockin' the Vest"

Pride Day 2011

PRIDE DAY 

Saturday 

OCTOBER 15, 2011

7:30 a.m. to 12 Noon

Hosted by:

El Paso Police Foundation

Keep El Paso Beautiful

 EPPD Regional Command Centers

Citizen’s Advisory Boards

Pride Day is a city wide clean up event involving volunteers.  It is an opportunity to increase community pride, increase awareness regarding trash accumulation, and the importance of a clean and green environment.  

We invite you to mobilize and clean areas within your neighborhoods and communities. We also invite ALL schools, churches, civic and social groups, and ALL citizens to join us as we help to

KICK-Off Event, 5pm-7pm, Friday, October 14, 2011 Eastwood Park, 3001 Parkwood-Food is sponsored by Famous Dave’s Barbeque

For more information contact your nearest El Paso Police Department   Regional Command Center (RCC) or Keep El Paso Beautiful (KEPB):

Family Night at the El Paso Zoo

EL PASO ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY TO HOST FAMILY FUN NIGHT

AT EL PASO ZOO ON SEPTEMBER 30

Family Fun Night to Raise Funds for El Paso Zoo Programs and Improvements

El Paso, Texas (Sept.  27, 2011) – The El Paso Zoological Society will host Family Fun Night on September 30 from 5:30 – 9 p.m. The El Paso Zoo will open Africa and the America's Plaza, after hours, with Lions, Meerkats, Zebras, Giraffes, Gazelles, and other amazing animals.

Activities for the entire family include: Hunt Family Desert Spring water feature, African Star train, music, dancing, jumping balloons, games, face painting, family friendly foods, kid’s drinks, beer, wine, photo opportunities and much more.

“Come out and join us at this exclusive fundraising event. All activities are family friendly and will be a ton of fun,” said El Paso Zoological Society’s Executive Director Renee Neuert. 

Sponsored by Hyundai of El Paso and El Paso Orthopaedic Surgery Group, this celebration will not only offer fun for El Paso families, it will help the Zoological Society raise funds for the Zoo’seducation programs, local and world-wide conservation efforts, volunteer programs and capital improvements which will lead to continuing to build a bigger and better zoo. 

Tickets are $25 for children and $50 for adults. Family packs are also available for $150 which includes admission for 2 adults and up to 5 children. Ticket price includes admission, food, beer and wine, photos and gigantic fun for all the wild kids in the herd. Food included will be provided by Texas Roadhouse, Carino’s Italian Kitchen, Peter Piper Pizza, G2, Service System’s Associates, Gelato Factory and Square Cow.

For more information or to purchase tickets contact the El Paso Zoological Society at (915) 532-8156 or elpasozoosociety@aol.com.

4th Annual Cancer Awareness Community Event

Cancer Aware Event flyer.pdf Download this file

Law Enforcement Officials Warn Against Making Excuses for DWI

We’ve all heard the excuses – “I’m OK to drive,” “I’m only going a few blocks” or “I’ll take the back roads home” – but just like “the dog ate my homework” didn’t work in elementary school, the excuses for drunk driving don’t work now. That’s why the Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) latest campaign to reduce drunk driving highlights common excuses offenders give for driving under the influence. 

At a Tuesday (Aug. 16) press event at the El Paso County Jail Annex to launch the annual Drink, Drive, Go To Jail campaign and enforcement period, TxDOT will enlist a troupe of local actors who will don prison jumpsuits and unveil common excuses people give for driving drunk. 

TxDOT is joining forces with DPS, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Mothers Against Drunk Driving and law enforcement agencies statewide to crack down on drunk driving as the summer winds down. From Aug. 19 through Labor Day (Sept. 5), law enforcement officers around the state will be working overtime to get drunk drivers off the road. 

It’s a problem that continues to haunt the state. In 2010, there were 25,032 alcohol-related crashes in Texas that resulted in 1,057 deaths and 16,877 injuries. In 2010, 24 percent of people killed in alcohol-related crashes in Texas were between the ages of 20 and 25. However, this age segment only represents 9 percent of the overall state population.

The purpose of the campaign is to remind drivers of the consequences of getting behind the wheel after they’ve been drinking and suggest safe alternatives. Instead of driving home, they can call a cab, ask a friend or a family member for a ride, hand their keys to a designated driver or simply stay put until they sober up.  

For those who choose to drink and drive, law enforcement officials statewide will be on out in force to arrest them. No excuses.

West Nile Virus Confirmed in El Paso Again This Year

Department continues to urge residents to take preventive action

El Paso, Texas – The City of El Paso Department of Public Health has confirmed the first three human cases of West Nile Virus in the El Paso area for 2011.

The most recent case involves a 64-year-old woman who resides within the 79935 zip code. She is currently receiving treatment for the disease. The second confirmed case is that of a 65-year-old man who lives in the 79927 zip code. The first case was identified in a patient who did not show symptoms of West Nile virus, but was rather diagnosed after donating blood. Because the source of the virus in the first case is undetermined, no details regarding that patient will be released.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), West Nile virus is spread by infected mosquitoes, and can cause serious, life-altering and even fatal disease. The most serious manifestation of WNV infection is fatal encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) in humans and horses, as well as mortality in certain domestic and wild birds.

“We continue to get the word out about confirmed cases of West Nile in our area so that residents don’t forget that the disease still exists and that it can become serious,” said Fernando Gonzalez, Department of Public Health-Lead Epidemiologist. “Taking precautions like using insect repellent and draining standing water outside your home should be as common as putting sunblock on your children and making sure the doors are locked before you go to bed,” he added.

Department officials continue to stress the importance of following recommendations for avoiding mosquito breeding or mosquito bites.  They include:

• Using insect repellents that contain DEET, picardin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
• If you are outdoors, wear long-sleeves, pants and socks when weather permits.
• Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can lay eggs.
• Install or Repair Window and Door Screens.

The chance that any one person is going to become ill from a single mosquito bite remains low. The risk of severe illness and death is highest for people over 50 years old, although people of all ages can become ill.

For more information log on to: http://www.elpasotexas.gov/health/westnile.asp

Any Last Words?

TxDOT_LastWordsEnglish_15.mpeg Watch on Posterous

Sales Tax Holiday Means More Bang for Back-to-School Bucks

(AUSTIN) — Texas Comptroller Susan Combs says Texas families have a big opportunity to save money when they shop.  The state’s annual Sales Tax Holiday is scheduled for Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 19-21.

“On that weekend, shoppers will pay no state or local sales tax on many school supplies, school backpacks and most children’s and adults’ clothing and shoes priced at less than $100,” Combs said.  “The tax break helps out when the kids’ back-to-school lists are long and money is short.”

This year, Combs predicts shoppers will save $62.1 million in state and local sales taxes during the Sales Tax Holiday.

The tax holiday weekend has been an annual event since 1999.  Currently, the Tax Code sets the holiday for the third Friday, Saturday and Sunday in August.

Lists of apparel and school supplies that may be purchased tax free can be found on the Comptroller’s website at www.texastaxholiday.org.

Eastlake Turnaround

The Eastlake Turnaround from east to westbound will be closed daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting today through the second week of August.

The lane leading directly to the Turnaround will also be closed.

Crews will be installing a new rip rap.

School Uniform Swap

School Uniform Swap

Sponsored by

El Paso County Lions Clubs

Turn in clean used uniforms for a credit slip,

Or donate outgrown uniforms to other students.

Drop off now at:

Angelus Cleaners, Inc.               National Self Storage

816 N. Mesa St.                         7620 North Loop & Carolina

7-6:00 Mon-Fri, Sat 8-3:00             10-6:00 Mon-Fri, Sat 9-4:00 Contact Ryan 526-7687                      Contact Luisa 779-7676       

                                    

Or Bring your uniforms to Swap on:

Distribution Swap Day

 

 Saturday, July 23, 2011

8am – 11am

Eastlake High School

13000 Emerald Pass Ave., El Paso, Tx 79928

No Guarantees of size or quantity

POLICE SEEK SUSPECT IN FATAL HIT & RUN COLLISION

A man attempts to cross Paisano Drive near Bowie High School late at night, and is run over by a driver who fails to stop and render aid, making this the,

Crime Stoppers “Crime of the Week.”

On Thursday, March 24

th

, 2011, about 10:20 P.M., 46-year-old Jorge Campa, addressunknown, was crossing Paisano Drive near Piedras when he was struck by an unknown motorist heading west on Paisano. Mr. Campa was pronounced dead at the scene.

Based on evidence found at the scene, the vehicle is believed to be a white 2002-2006 Chevrolet Avalanche which should show damage to the front left and has a broken fog light cover. The life of a man was lost at the hands of a careless driver, who left the man laying fatally injured on the street. You may have the information that is key to solving this case and bringing closure to Jorge Campa’s family

If you have any information about the identity of the suspect involved, or the location of the vehicle, please call Crime Stoppers of El Paso at 566-TIPS(566-8477) or on-line at www.crimestoppersofelpaso.org. You will remain anonymous and, if your tip leads to an arrest, you can qualify for a cash reward up to $1,000.

Crime Stoppers of El Paso: a non-profit organization that brings together the community, law enforcement, and the media to solve crime.

Academy Sports + Outdoors hosts a back-to-school uniform donation for 30 kids with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of El Paso

WHO:         Academy Sports + Outdoors and Big Brothers Big Sisters of El Paso 

WHEN:         Tuesday, July 12, 2011 6:30-8:30 p.m. 

WHERE:         Academy Sports + Outdoors 

                      801 S. Mesa Hills Dr.

 

                      El Paso, TX 79912

 

WHAT:         Academy Sports + Outdoors is hosting a back-to-school uniform donation event to give 30 kids from the Big Brothers Big Sisters Club of El Paso a $100 gift card to buy uniforms, backpacks, shoes and other school supplies. 

Each child will be greeted at the store with the $100 gift card. During the shopping spree, the kids participating will enjoy the experience of choosing back-to-school items with their Bigs, followed by a pizza party.

 

PHOTO OP:         Photograph and film kids from the Big Brothers Big Sisters Club shopping for their school uniforms and back-to school supplies. Capture the shopping spree and interaction between the kids and associates. 

FACEBOOK:         Academy Sports + Outdoors is hosting a uniform donation event for the Big Brothers Big Sisters Club of El Paso. The kids will receive a $100 gift card to spend on their school uniform needs and any back-to-school items. 

TWEET:         We're hosting a uniform donation event for El Paso’s Big Brothers Big Sisters! Each child will receive a $100 gift card to buy school uniforms. 

About Academy Sports + Outdoors 

Academy Sports + Outdoors is a premier sports, outdoor and lifestyle retailer with a broad assortment of quality hunting, fishing, and camping equipment and gear along with sports and leisure products, footwear, apparel and much more. The Texas-based company operates 133 stores throughout Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. The Academy Sports + Outdoors philosophy is to deliver an unparalleled shopping experience by providing convenience, offering a broad selection of quality products, delivering exceptional customer service and selling the right stuff at every day low prices. For more information about Academy Sports + Outdoors visit academy.com, facebook.com/academysportsandoutdoors, twitter.com/academydotcom and youtube.com/academydotcom.

New Fort Bliss Commissary to open end of June

New Fort Bliss Commissary to open end of June Six-day celebration offers
food sampling, prizes, promotional prices The Defense Commissary Agency will
open a new commissary at Fort Bliss, Texas, June 29, with a ribbon-cutting
ceremony at 9 a.m.

DeCA has a six-day celebration planned to delight all members of the family,
and the events and shopping will kick off immediately following the
ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The event will feature spectacular savings as commissary vendors have
stepped up to offer hundreds of promotional prices. The six-day event will
be marked with food sampling, drawings for prizes and other festivities.
Commissary vendors will give away several televisions, a washer and dryer
set, a motorcycle, an SUV and hundreds of smaller prizes to customers.
On grand opening day and June 30 there will also be a soccer kick, a
football toss, two race car simulators, a super slide, a clown and face
painting for children.

"We're excited to offer the commissary savings benefit to the growing
military community at Fort Bliss in DeCA's newest store," said Joseph H.
Jeu, DeCA Director and CEO. "Every inch of this store was designed to make
shopping an enjoyable and comfortable experience."

The store is located at 1620 Marshall Road, on the south end of Freedom
Crossing at Fort Bliss, a first-of-its-kind shopping, dining and
entertainment marketplace located on a U.S. military installation. The mall
opened in November 2010 with an Army and Air Force Exchange Service main
store, food court, theater and other retail shops. The addition of the
commissary, anchoring one side of the mall, will make retail shopping more
convenient on Fort Bliss.
With the grand opening just a month away, workers are completing
installation of product shelving and the store staff is busy ordering and
receiving merchandise to fill the shelves.

"The store is simply beautiful inside, and the modern shelving and
refrigeration cases will allow us to pack in a wider variety of products
than we've been able to fit in the current store," said Store Director Mike
Mena. "We will be able to offer our customers even more of the quality
products they've come to expect."

By commissary standards, the new Fort Bliss Commissary is a large store -
one of the 10 largest in DeCA's 249-store inventory. Features of the new
store include more than 60,000 square feet of sales area; 28 checkouts,
eight of which are self-checkouts; full-service meat and produce
departments; an international deli and bakery; an olive bar; hot foods; a
fresh fish market; sushi-to-go and rotisserie chicken.

DeCA has included some of the latest environmental and energy efficiency
innovations into the store design, and some of them don't even require an
engineering degree to understand, said Mena. The ceiling has large skylights
to allow in natural light and automatic lighting controls. A heat-reflective
roof will further reduce the commissary's energy needs in the hot Texas
climate.

Construction on the $20.3 million commissary began in August 2009, on a
contract awarded to Ledcor Construction, Inc., based in San Diego, Calif.
Construction was funded with Department of Defense Base Realignment and
Closure funds.

Mena said that when the new store opens, the commissary hours will change to
better meet the requests of shoppers and to align with operating hours of
the mall. The hours will be Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday
and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The current store, which has operated since 1981, will close at 9 p.m. June
27. Workers will use June 28 to shift the commissary operation to the new
store, Mena said.

The Fort Bliss Garrison will take possession of the old commissary building
when DeCA moves into the new store, and it is considering several reuse
options for the facility, according to John Kirby, deputy director of the
Fort Bliss Garrison Plans and Training Directorate.

Diablo RHP Scott Hodsdon Pitcher of the Week

EL PASO, TX – Pointstreak, the official statistician of the American Association, has selected El Paso Diablos RHP Scott Hodsdon as the Pointstreak Pitcher of the Week. Hodsdon, 26,  joined the Diablos just two weeks ago, and has been making his mark ever since.

Hodsdon tossed seven shutout innings in the 14-0 victory over the Grand Prairie AirHogs Saturday. He allowed only one walk and three hits and fanned four batters.  The Rancho Cucamonga, CA resident is 1-2 on the year with a 4.15 ERA in 21 2/3 innings pitched.

After facing off against the Wichita Wingnuts on the road, the team will be back at Cohen Stadium for Fourth of July weekend. Don’t miss the Diablos battle the Lincoln Saltdogs at home for the only time this season July 2-July 5. And stick around after the game Saturday, Sunday, and Fourth of July’s Monday for fireworks after the game.  Other promotions for the weekend include Quartermania, the Baseball Card Giveaway and Rodney Dangerfield Weekend Ticket Special. July 4^th has the biggest fireworks show in the city, and tickets will sell out! Buy your tickets now at the Cohen Stadium Box Office, online at diablos.com, or call 915-755-2000. 

“Kites for Kids Day”

El Paso Employees Federal Credit Union

Presents

“Kites for Kids Day”

Free Event at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 11, 2011 at Vista Del Valle Park

The El Paso Employees Federal Credit Union will host a “Kites for Kids Day” from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 11, 2011 at Vista Del Valle Park, 1288 Hawkins Blvd. (off Gazelle St.).

The first 100 children will receive a gift bag complete with their very own kite. Entertainment will be provided by Kiss FM Radio, (93.1 FM).

The 2^nd annual event is free and will feature face painting, kite flying, outdoor dining and live music. 

Children will compete in a variety of kite flying contests for a chance to win a $50 prize deposited into a Youth Club Account with El Paso Employees Credit Union.

Information (915) 593-5866

Wii Bowling Tournament

Wii Bowling Tournament at Father Martinez Senior Center

Wii Bowling Tournament

Who:               City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department

What:             Wii Bowling Tournament

When:             Thursday June 23, 2011

Where:           Father Martinez Senior Center, 9311 Alameda.

            The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department and Humana Health Care will host a free Wii Bowling Tournament from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 23^rd at the Father Martinez Senior Center, 9311 Alameda Ave.

The event is open to seniors 55 years of age and older and is a co-ed doubles tournament. Trophies will be awarded to 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd place.

For more information

(915) 860-9131

District 4 - Community Meeting

District 4 – Northeast City Representative Carl L. Robinson

                                                    Community Meeting

WHO:       City Representative Carl L. Robinson

WHAT:     Will host his weekly community meeting with Special Guest Pat Haggerty

WHERE:  Denny’s Diner located at 4690 Transmountain Road

WHEN:     Friday, May 27, 2011 at 7:30 a.m.

WHY:        To inform the Northeast residents of issues affecting the Community

SEATBELT ENFORCEMENT

EL PASO, TX- Beginning today May 23, 2011 through June 5, 2011, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office in coordination with the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) utilized a grant for SEATBELT ENFORCEMENT. The purpose of this push is to maximize the visibility of enforcement to the public focusing on drivers not wearing their seatbelts during the peak of the upcoming holiday traffic. 

GOALS & STRATEGIES:

• To increase effective enforcement and adjudication of traffic safety-related laws to reduce fatal and serious injury crashes.
• To increase occupant restraint use in all passenger vehicles and trucks.
• Increase enforcement of occupant protection laws.

The enforcement program begins today 05/23 & continues through the Memorial Day Holiday weekend until Sunday, June 5, 2011.

Save on Appliances During ENERGY STAR® Sales Tax Holiday

(AUSTIN) —Texas Comptroller Susan Combs says Memorial Day weekend is a great time for Texans to replace old, inefficient appliances during the fourth annual ENERGY STAR Sales Tax Holiday, May 28-30.

“Much of Texas is currently suffering from severe drought, and summertime temperatures have arrived early, reminding us of the need to conserve Texas’ precious resources,” Combs said. “You can save water and energy by purchasing efficient, ENERGY STAR appliances. And during the ENERGY STAR Sales Tax Holiday, you won’t pay state or local sales taxes on your new appliances.”

The tax break applies to ENERGY STAR rated air conditioners priced at $6,000 or less; refrigerators priced at $2,000 or less; ceiling fans; compact fluorescent light bulbs; clothes washers; dishwashers; dehumidifiers; and programmable thermostats.

“The ENERGY STAR Sales Tax Holiday is a great opportunity for consumers to save twice on energy efficient appliances,” Combs said. “You will pay no sales tax and also save on your monthly utility bills.”

The current estimated annual energy and water savings for eligible products are as follows.

ENERGY STAR® Appliance/Product vs. Conventional

Appliance Type	Energy Savings	Water savings
Central Air Conditioners	30%
Room/Window Air Conditioners	10%
Refrigerators	20%
Ceiling Fans	50%
Compact Fluorescent Lightbulbs	75%
Clothes Washers	37%	50%
Dish Washers	20%	33%
Dehumidifiers	15%

Source: U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Products that qualify for the sales tax exemption will display the ENERGY STAR logo on the appliance, the packaging or the Energy Guide label. More information about the tax holiday is available at www.texaspowerfulsmart.org.  For details on ENERGY STAR products, visit www.energystar.gov.

Summer Swim League Registration

Register now at any City indoor Pool

The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department is still having registration for the Summer League for interested participants from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for a fee of $35 until June 30^th.

The league is open to individuals 18 years of age and younger and registration is available by going to the pool in your area. All pools will have swim teams except for Therapeutic and Instructional, Delta and Pat O’Rourke.

            For Registration individuals must bring a copy of the following:

·        Driver’s license with current address

·        Child’s Birth Certificate

·        Parent/Participant Acknowledgement Form

·        Parent or Guardian must be present to register their child (no exceptions) Letter of authority will not be accepted.

A participant must be able to swim the length of the pool without stopping or assistance. This is a safety factor during practices and meets.

The Aquatic Parent Classes are mandatory for each participant. The Parent Class web site: www.activenet17.active.com/coepparksrec/?redir=1., is available for information on class times.

Information – (915) 544-3556

FREE MOTORCYCLE SAFETY COURSE SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY – MAY 21, 2011

Date/Time: Saturday, May 21, 2011 @ 10:00 a.m.

Location: 10310 Montana (Edge Kawasaki)

El Paso, Texas – The El Paso Police Department’s Traffic Safety unit will offer its free motorcycle safety course on Saturday, May 21, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m.  The classes will be held at Edge Kawasaki located at 10310 Montana and again, is free to the public. 

To sign up for the class, those interested in participating should call the El Paso Police Department’s Traffic Safety Coordinator, Margaret Petrozza at 915.564.7352 or Edge Kawasaki at 915.593.1024.