City Hall Holiday Operational Schedule

Due to the holidays, there will be some operational schedule changes to assist in providing service to the community while also allowing city employees time to celebrate the holidays with their family. Please see listing below:

Monday December 24, 2012  CLOSED

Tuesday December 25, 2012 CLOSED

Wednesday December 26, 2012 OPEN 7:00 am – 6:00 pm

Thursday December 27, 2012 OPEN 7:00 am -6:00pm

Friday December 28, 2012 OPEN 7:00 -6:00 pm

Monday December 31, 2012 CLOSED

Tuesday January 1, 2013 CLOSED 

Wednesday January 2, 2013 OPEN 7:00 am – 6:00 pm

Thursday January 3, 2013 OPEN 7:00 am -6:00pm

Friday January 4, 2013 OPEN 7:00 -6:00 pm

City Council Meeting

Tuesday December 25, 2012 CANCELLED

Wednesday January 2, 2013 Regular meeting will be held beginning at 8:30am.

Tips for preparing outdoor pipes, irrigation systems for freezing temperatures

Freezing winter temperatures can sometimes mean busted pipes that frustrate homeowners, damage property, and waste thousands of gallons of water.

To help avoid that, El Paso Water Utilities will offer a free workshop called “Bundle or Bust” on Saturday, December 8, at 10:30am, at the Carlos M. Ramirez TecH₂O Water Resources Learning Center at 10751 Montana Avenue.

The workshop will be led by Ken Futrell of Ewing Irrigation. Futrell will explain how to prepare outdoor pipes and irrigation systems for freezing temperatures. The event is free and open to the public, however registration is recommended. Those interested should visit TecH₂O.org and click on “Events” to register for this and other upcoming events.

City Hall Holiday Operational Schedule

Due to the holidays, there will be some operational schedule changes to assist in providing service to the community while also allowing city employees time to celebrate the holidays with their family. Please see listing below:

Monday December 24, 2012 CLOSED

Tuesday December 25, 2012 CLOSED

Wednesday December 26, 2012 OPEN 7:00 am – 6:00 pm

Thursday December 27, 2012 OPEN 7:00 am -6:00pm

Friday December 28, 2012 OPEN 7:00 -6:00 pm

Monday December 31, 2012 CLOSED

Tuesday January 1, 2013 CLOSED 

Wednesday January 2, 2013 OPEN 7:00 am – 6:00 pm

Thursday January 3, 2013 OPEN 7:00 am -6:00pm

Friday January 4, 2013 OPEN 7:00 -6:00 pm

City Council Meeting

Tuesday December 25, 2012 CANCELLED

Wednesday January 2, 2013 Regular meeting will be held beginning at 8:30am.

The Grand Theatre starts Toys for Tots collection drive

The Grand Theatre 10 Fort Bliss will donate to the local chapter of Toys for Tots

 

The Grand Theatre 10 Fort Bliss, managed by Southern Theatres, L.L.C., announces the start of its Toys for Tots toy collection drive, benefitting the local chapter of the United States Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys For Tots program. From  December 1^st through December 21^st,  a specially-marked donation station will be set up in the lobby of the Grand Theatre for customers to drop off new and unwrapped toys. 

 

“Toys for Tots is a great program that brings happiness to many families during the holidays,” said Ronald Krueger II, COO of Southern Theatres, L.L.C. “We look forward to giving back to our community and partnering with them again this year.” 

 

The Grand Theatre 10 Fort Bliss is a state-of-the-art facility that features all digital projection and sound, 3D presentations, stadium seating, high-back rocker seats, a specialty café and a game room. Grand Theatre patrons enjoy the latest technologies and amenities available–a signature trademark of Southern Theatres’ first-class customer service and entertainment experience.

Opera recital of classical arias and Mexican songs performed by Baritone Roberto Bañuelas and Soprano Hortensia Cervantes

Tomorrow's Celebration of Lights Info

The evolve program hosted by the City of El Paso is around the corner and just a reminder that paid parking will be available at the Mills Plaza Parking Garage, right next to San Jacinto Plaza. The parking fee is $5 and the entrance is located right off Stanton St. Main St. and the exit from the garage at the end of the event will take you away from the throngs of people in attendance downtown. There are numerous other free parking locations downtown as well.

Festivities Schedule 

4:30 p.m. 1st Armored Division Band of Fort Bliss

5:00 p.m. St. Anthony Franciscanos Choir

5:30 p.m. Celebration of Lights Ceremony  (Musical Interlude by Deniese Baisley)

5:50 - 5:55 Downtown Christmas Tree is lighted by Mayor John Cook and Uriel Gandara of Candlelighters of El Paso

5:55 p.m. evolve Federal Credit Union Holiday Lights Parade

7:15 p.m. Fireworks Show (sponsored by evolve Federal Credit Union)

Parade Map Attached courtesy of El Paso Times

Tree Lighting Tomorrow at Freedom Crossing

The commanding general of the 1st Armored Division and
Fort Bliss, Maj. Gen. Dana J.H. Pittard along with Freedom Crossing
officials, will host a "Tree Lighting" ceremony at Freedom Crossing,
tomorrow at 5:30p.m. (actual tree lighting at 6p.m.)

Join Family and MWR (morale, welfare & recreation) for the Night of Dancing
Lights, games, live music, train rides, bungee jumping, face painting and
much more all at Freedom Crossing.

This marks the third Christmas for the new mall, the largest in the
Department of Defense.

The event will be festive and colorful and is FREE and open to the public.

UPDATE - Fire at Sierra Providence

The following is from Sierra Providence Health Network.

"This afternoon, an electrical surge caused a small fire in the basement of the hospital.  The fire department quickly extinguished it but the hospital was unable to regain power to some areas of the hospital. We have evacuated some patients to our sister hospitals, Providence Memorial Hospital and Sierra Providence East Medical Center. The fire department and local power company are on-site working with us to restore full power.  The emergency room is on diversion for EMS and we will let everyone know when our electricity is fully restored.

We take the health and safety or our patients, employees and visitors very seriously. We routinely practice for situations like this to ensure that we're able to respond quickly and appropriately."

El Paso Zoo Closed on Thanksgiving Day

As a reminder, the El Paso Zoo will be closed on Thanksgiving Day. The El Paso Zoo will resume regular zoo hours on Friday, November 23 from 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Ticket gate closes at 4 p.m.

The Zoo is open year-round and only closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

For more information visit elpasozoo.org.

HOLIDAY SEASON SAFETY TIPS

The El Paso Police Department wants everyone to have a safe winter and upcoming Holiday Season.  As a reminder here are some safety tips to keep in mind.

At Home:

• NEVER LEAVE YOUR CHILDREN ALONE
• Be sure to lock your doors and windows when you leave your home.
• Do not display holiday gifts where they can be seen from a window or doorway.
• Leave some lights on
• Leave a radio on
• Leave drapes/curtains in a normal position
• Mark your valuables with your driver’s license number
• Pickup mail and newspapers
• Never give information about your home over the telephone
• Always call police to report any suspicious activity

While Shopping:

• Always keep your children close to you
• Do not shop alone
• Never take more money than you need to make your purchases
• Do not flash your money when paying for items
• Pay with a check card or credit card
• Be aware of your surroundings
• Do not leave any purchases or purses unattended
• Do not overburden yourself with packages
• Carry your purse close to your body

Your car:

• Lock your vehicle
• Use any antitheft devices
• Do not leave any packages or valuables inside the vehicle
• Approach your vehicle with your keys out and ready
• Park in well lighted areas
• Keep your vehicle in proper working order
• If something seems wrong, get help from security or call the police

Outside Activities:

• Dress appropriate to weather conditions and type of activity
• If Walking, Running, or Riding a Bike
• Wear reflective of light colored clothing
• Be aware of your surroundings
• Obey all traffic laws
• Don’t let yourself become distracted
• Hiking – notify individuals of intended route
• Estimated length of trip
• Expected return time
• Be prepared for inclement weather
• Driving – obey all traffic laws
• Be aware of individuals walking, running, and biking during the cooler weather
• Don’t drink and drive
• Be aware of your surroundings.

Traffic Alerts and Road Closures For The Weekend

FORT BLISS OVERPASS BRIDGE PROJECT:

The northbound lanes on the Purple Heart Memorial Highway (Loop 375) will be completely closed between the Liberty Expressway (Spur 601) Exit Ramp and the Montana Overpass.

This closure will be in place Friday, November 16 from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning.

DETOUR:

Northbound traffic will be exited at the Montana Exit Ramp; westbound to Global Reach; northbound to Spur 601 and back onto Loop 375.

The southbound lanes on the Purple Heart Memorial Highway (Loop 375) will be completely closed between the Montana Overpass to the Liberty Expressway (Spur 601) Exit Ramp on Saturday, November 17 from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning.

DETOUR: 

Southbound traffic will continue westbound on Spur 601 to the Global Reach Exit Ramp; continue on Global Reach to Montana Ave.; then eastbound until back onto Loop 375.

MAINTENANCE: 

Two westbound right lanes will be closed on RAMP (Ramp leading from US 54 southbound into I-10) this Saturday, November 17 from 4 a.m. to 6 a.m.

DETOUR:

Traffic wanting to go on US 54 North, will need to take the Paisano Exit Ramp on US 54 southbound and turnaround to US 54 North. 

There will be alternate left and right lane closures eastbound on I-10 starting Sunday, November 18 through Tuesday, November 20, each night from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. (the following morning).    

The closure is between the Copia Overpass past the Chelsea Exit Ramp.   

This closure is necessary to repair bridge joints. 

I-10 MILL & INLAY RAMPS PROJECT: 

The following east and westbound closures will be in place Sunday, November 18 through Wednesday, November 21 from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. (the following morning):

Right lane closure on I-10 between the Mesa Overpass and Transmountain (Loop 375)

Artcraft Exit and Entrance Ramps 

Redd Exit and Entrance Ramps 

ARTCRAFT (SH 178) TRAFFIC SIGNAL INTERCONNECT PROJECT:

Expect east and westbound shoulder closures on Artcraft Rd. (SH-178) between I-10 and the Texas/New Mexico State Line Monday, November 19 through Wednesday, November 21 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

DONIPHAN (SH 20) MILL & INLAY PROJECT: 

There will be alternate north and southbound right and left lane closures on Doniphan Dr. between the Texas/New Mexico State Line and the Mesa Intersection Monday, November 19 through Wednesday, November 21 from                 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

WOODROW BEAN / TRANSMOUNTAIN (Loop 375) EXTENSION PROJECT: 

The following closures will be in place Monday, November 19 through Wednesday, November 21 along 

Woodrow Bean/Transmountain (Loop 375) between Dyer St. (BU 54) and 1 mile West of US 54 from 

7 a.m. to 4 p.m.:

East and westbound center median

East and westbound alternate lane closures and shoulders on the frontage roads

Alternate north and southbound lanes at the Kenworthy, Rushing and Alcan Intersections with Transmountain/Woodrow Bean.

PLEASE NOTE:

The eastbound Alcan Entrance Ramp onto Loop 375 and the westbound Alcan Exit are now permanently closed. Westbound traffic will need to use the McCombs/Dyer Exit Ramp.  

Eastbound traffic will need to use the Bomarc Entrance Ramp. 

TRANSMOUNTAIN (Loop 375) - WEST PROJECT: 

Traffic will need to be delayed for approximately 5 minutes during construction operations starting Monday, 

November 19 and continuing through Wednesday, November 21.  These temporary delays will be in place eastbound along Transmountain between Tom May Park and 1 mile east of Resler Dr. daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.   

Expect the left lane on IH-10 westbound between Artcraft to the Transmountain Overpass to be closed on Tuesday, November 20 from 2 a.m. to 5 a.m.

Work crew/ flaggers will be on site.  Please be prepared to stop!

**THE FOLLOWING OPERATIONS CONTINUE IN PLACE UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE:

The westbound Transmountain Exit Ramp remains open.

The U-turn going from North Desert Blvd. to South Desert Blvd. remains open

The left lane on South Desert Blvd. between the Transmountain Entrance Ramp and 

Isela Rubalcava Ave. remains closed

The left lane on North Desert Blvd. between Artcraft Rd. and Transmountain Dr. remains closed 

The left lane on North Desert Blvd. between the Transmountain Exit Ramp and the Transmountain Overpass remains closed 

The eastbound Tom Mays Park Entrance on Loop 375 remains closed 

**The Resler Dr. closure between Loop 375 and Trade Center Way has been extended through the 

end of  November 2012 

I-10 ANTHONY RAMP RELOCATION PROJECT:

The following closures will continue through Wednesday, November 21: 

Left lane closure on North Desert Blvd. between Oceanside Rd. and the Anthony Exit Ramp.

Westbound right shoulder on I-10 between the Westway Exit Ramp (Exit 2) and the Anthony Exit Ramp (Exit 0) is closed until further notice.

ALAMEDA (SH 20) PROJECT:

The eastbound lanes are closed on Alameda Ave. from Concepcion St. to Boone St. and will continue closed through April 2013.  

The westbound lanes now have one eastbound and one westbound lane in place for traffic flow

The following side streets will have no access to Alameda: 

Boone St.

Evergreen St.

Pera Ave.

Linden St.

Locust St.

Hadlock St.

Concepcion St.

The Alameda/ Val Verde Intersection will be temporarily closed to traffic through Wednesday, November 21.  A detour is in place.  The intersection will be completed and opened to the public by the end of November.

(It will be necessary to work on Saturdays.)

PLEASE OBEY CONSTRUCTION SIGNS 

FOLLOW THE DETOUR SIGNS

ALL WORK IS DEPENDENT UPON WEATHER CONDITIONS

Fort Bliss Overpass Project UPDATE

The northbound lanes on the Purple Heart Memorial Highway (Loop 375) will becompletely closed between the Liberty Expressway (Spur 601) Exit Ramp and theMontana Overpass.

 

This closure will be in place Friday,November 16 from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning.

 

DETOUR:

Northbound traffic will be exited at the Montana Exit Ramp; westbound to Global Reach; northbound to Spur 601 and back onto Loop 375.

 

 

 

The southbound lanes on the Purple Heart Memorial Highway (Loop 375) will becompletely closed between the Montana Overpass to the Liberty Expressway (Spur 601) Exit Ramp on Saturday, November 17from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning.

 

 

DETOUR: 

Southbound traffic will continue westbound on Spur 601 to the Global Reach Exit Ramp; continue on Global Reach to Montana Ave.; then eastbound until back onto Loop 375.

Fort Bliss Thanksgiving Hours

In observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday, Thursday, Nov 22, administrative
offices at Fort Bliss will be closed, except for emergency services,
military police, security, and EMS.
The Exchange will be CLOSED and will reopen at 4am Friday with line-up at 2am. Saturday it will open at 6a.m with
line-up at 4am.
The Commissary will be CLOSED, normal hours resume Friday.

At Freedom Crossing several stores and restaurants will be open on
Thanksgiving including Buffalo Wild Wings and The Grand Theatre.
Call in advance.

Friday Entry Deadline for Holiday Lights Parade

The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department and evolve Federal Credit Union are proud to host the Celebration of Lights Program on December 1, 2012 at San Jacinto Plaza in downtown El Paso highlighted by the 15^th edition of the Holiday Lights Parade. The largest event in downtown El Paso will have the tree lighting festivities beginning at 4:30 p.m. followed by the parade starting at 5:55 p.m., right after the tree is lighted. Fireworks will light up the downtown skies again this year thanks to the sponsorship of evolve Federal Credit Union.

The parade had upwards of 78,000 people on the parade route last year to partake in the festivities. Ken Walters, President and CEO of evolve Federal Credit Union says “We are excited to once again have the privilege of sponsoring the Celebration of Lights. It is an honor to be able to bring this event to the citizens of El Paso.” The program and the lights parade can be seen live on El Paso – Las Cruces CW affiliated with KVIA-TV.

Parade registration forms are available at the Recreation Administration Office for El Paso Parks and Recreation at 911 S. Ochoa St. or forms can be downloaded at the Parks and Recreation web site at www.elpasotexas.gov/parks. with an entry deadline of November 16^th with forms being taken on a first come basis. There is a fee for the parade based on the size of the entry.

Texas Social Security Offices to Close to the Public a Half Hour Early Each Day and at Noon on Wednesdays

Effective November 19, 2012, Texas Social Security offices will be open to the public Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. – a reduction of 30 minutes each weekday.  In addition, beginning January 2, 2013, offices will close to the public at noon every Wednesday.

While agency employees will continue to work their regular hours, this shorter public window will allow them to complete face-to-face interviews and process claims work without incurring the cost of overtime.   The significantly reduced funding provided by Congress under the continuing resolution for the first six months of the fiscal year makes it impossible for the agency to provide the overtime needed to handle service to the public as it has done in the past.   

In addition, on November 23, the day after Thanksgiving, all Social Security field offices will be closed to the public.  As we did last year, employees working that day will focus on reducing backlogged workloads. 

Most Social Security services do not require a visit to a local office.  Many services, including applying for retirement, disability or Medicare benefits, signing up for direct deposit, replacing a Medicare card, obtaining a proof of income letter or informing us of a change of address or telephone number are conveniently available at  www.socialsecurity.gov or by dialing our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213.  People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call our TTY number, 1-800-325-0778.  Many of our online services also are available in Spanish at  www.segurosocial.gov.

El Paso Fire Chief Announces Resignation

Fire Chief Otto Drozd has submitted his resignation to the City of El Paso, with an effective date of November 23, 2012. Chief Drozd has served as Fire Chief since April of 2009 and will be returning to his home State of Florida as Fire Chief of the Orange County Fire Rescue Department, which oversees the largest county in Florida, including Orlando and the Disneyworld complexes.   

The City of El Paso is appreciative of his time, dedication, and service to the El Paso community. “Chief Drozd has elevated the professionalism of the department and we wish him much success in his new role in Orlando, Florida,” City Manager Joyce Wilson said.

During his tenure Chief Drozd confronted many challenges including a shortage of paramedics, excessive sick leave usage, delayed capital replacement, and providing for the growth within the City. The department under his leadership has met the challenge by increasing the number of paramedics by approximately 35 % thus increasing patient care and allowing for greater survivability. Through cultivation of an excellent labor/management relationship with Local 51 of the International Association of Fire Fighters, the Department was able to implement a sick leave reduction program that yielded a year to year reduction in sick time usage of over 25,000 hours. This reduction enhanced the Department’s ability to mitigate emergencies by having more fire fighters on the streets.  

Chief Drozd has addressed the department’s infrastructure through a vehicle replacement program and as well as a station replacement program that has seen the upgrade of many stations and the current construction of station 31 on the west side, 37 on the east side and the imminent replacement of Station 5 in the Medical Centers of the Americas area.

In early 2010 Chief Drozd set the department on the path towards International Accreditation through the Centers for Public Safety Excellence. In August of 2012 the El Paso Fire Department was recognized as one of only 150 agencies to achieve International Accreditation. In conjunction with International Accreditation the EPFD was reassessed in 2012 by the Insurance Service Office and remains one of only 61 Fire Departments nationwide to receive a Class One rating the highest available. These two distinctions are a testament to the professionalism and quality of service rendered by the El Paso Fire Department and as a result of the solid foundation laid will continue well into the future.  

“I consider myself blessed to have served as Fire Chief and proud of what the El Paso Fire Department has accomplished as an organization. I am privileged to have helped contribute over the last three and a half years and optimistic about the future of the EPFD,” stated Fire Chief Otto Drozd. 

As a responsible leader Chief Drozd has provided for the professional development of current management staff as well as established high expectations for the future leaders of the department. City officials are confident that there is h a strong cadre of fire service professionals within the department that are fully capable of upholding  the high standards set for the department during Chief Drozd’ s tenure. 

City officials will receive input from the Chief and other important stakeholders prior to making a decision on an interim appointment and will  notify the community of an Interim Fire Chief appointment prior to Chief Drozd’ s departure.  The next step will be to focus on the recruitment process for a permanent appointment.

Zaragoza to COMPLETELY CLOSE Tonight!

It will be necessary to COMPLETELY CLOSE the East and westbound lanes of Zaragoza (FM 659) between Joe Battle Blvd. and Sun Fire Blvd. 

This operation will be in place tonight, October 17 at 10 p.m. and continue through Thursday, October 18 at 8 a.m.

DETOUR:

     Westbound traffic along Zaragoza will need to take Sun Fire to Montwood

     Eastbound traffic along Zaragoza will need to take Montwood to Sun Fire

PLEASE FOLLOW THE DETOUR SIGNS!

UTEP Announces Events for Homecoming 2012

The University of Texas at El Paso is proud to announce a robust slate of public and campus-oriented activities for its 2012 Homecoming celebration. From Sunday, Oct. 14 through Saturday, Oct. 20, the UTEP campus will be alive with arts and culture, athletic, educational, networking, and family friendly events for the public as well as UTEP students and alumni.

 “This is the time of year that we bring the community together to show support and appreciation for UTEP as an integral part of our community,” says Dr. Richard Daniel, Associate Vice President for University Advancement and Special Projects and Executive Director for Alumni Relations. “We are proud to welcome back to campus our alumni and to share with them and the entire community all the great developments and progress that are taking place at UTEP. This is a special week of the year and we hope everyone will come join us for the homecoming festivities.”

The public can participate in the UTEP Commitment to Fitness 5K Run/2K Walk on Sunday, Oct. 14, at 8 a.m. The SGA Homecoming Pageant takes place that evening at 5 p.m. at Magoffin Auditorium. The Homecoming Parade (click here for parade route) and Pep Rally – featuring the UTEP cheerleaders, local ROTC high school students, Golden Grads (alumni from the class of 1962 and earlier) and the homecoming court –take place on Friday, Oct. 19 at noon.

Homecoming Week also provides several opportunities for the public to learn about the history of UTEP at open houses being held on Wednesday, Oct. 17; Friday, Oct. 19; and Saturday, Oct. 20, from 10 a.m. to noon at UTEP’s Heritage House. The Distinguished Alumni Awards Dinner honoring Dennis C.K. Poon (B.S. Civil Engineering '77), Ignacio Urrabazo, Jr. (B.B.A. '70), and all Gold Nugget Award recipients will be held on Friday, Oct. 19, at 6:30 p.m. at the Don Haskins Center.

Finally, the Homecoming Football Game between UTEP and Tulane is set for a 6 p.m. kickoff at Sun Bowl Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 20 (tickets on sale at utepathletics.com or at the UTEP Ticket Center (2901 N. Mesa, 915-747-5234). A full listing of events, including gatherings presented by specific academic departments can be found at alumni.utep.edu/homecoming.

I-10 / AMERICAS INTERCHANGE PROJECT UPDATE

The left shoulder of I-10 West between the Americas Exit Ramp and the I-10 Entrance Ramp will be closed Tuesday, October 9 from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. (the following morning). 

The southbound lanes on Joe Battle Blvd between the Bob Hope Overpass and the Rojas Overpass will be closed Tuesday, October 9 and Thursday, October 11 each night from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. (the following morning)

This closure requires the complete closure of Rojas Intersection underneath the Loop 375 overpass.

Northbound lanes on Loop 375 between the North Loop Overpass (Americas) and the Pellicano Overpass 

(Joe Battle) will be completely closed Tuesday, October 9 through Monday, October 15 each night from 8 p.m. to 

6 a.m. (the following morning)

I-10 East will be completely closed between the Americas Exit Ramp and the Americas (Loop 375) Wednesday, October 10 through Monday, October 15 each night from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. (the following morning)

The right lane on Gateway West between the West to Southbound Ramp and Don Haskins Dr. will be closed Wednesday, October 10 through Saturday, October 13 daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

New! - The North to Eastbound Ramp between Americas Ave and Gateway East will be closed Wednesday, October 10 at 10 a.m. and will remain closed through Friday, October 12 to 5 a.m. 

New! - The South to Westbound Ramp between Joe Battle Blvd and Gateway West will be closed Wednesday, October 10 through Friday, October 12 daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The southbound lanes on Joe Battle (Loop 375) between the Bob Hope Overpass and the Rojas Overpass will be closed Thursday, October 11 through Saturday, October 13 each night from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.

(the following morning)

PLEASE OBEY CONSTRUCTION SIGNS FOLLOW THE DETOUR SIGNS

ALL WORK IS DEPENDENT UPON WEATHER CONDITIONS

City of El Paso Public Art Program Holds Information Sessions for Local Artists on Program Opportunities

The City of El Paso Museums and Cultural Affairs Department Public Art Program, invites local artists to attend an information session on various public art opportunities. A total of 4 meetings will take place at different locations in El Paso to inform the participants and answer questions. The schedule and venues are as follows:

October 10—5:30-6:30pm Judge Marquez Library located at 610 N. Yarbrough

October 11—5:30-6:30pm Richard Burges Library located at 9600 Dyer Street

October 22—5:30-6:30pm Downtown Main Branch Library located at 501 N. Oregon

October 23—5:30-6:30pm Jose Cisneros Cielo Vista Library located at 1300 Hawkins

About the Opportunities:

The City of El Paso Allied Artist Program provides local artists the opportunity to assist established artists commissioned for major projects in order to gain the technical and administrative expertise needed to compete within the field of public art.  Allied Artists are assigned to commissioned artists based on their level of experience, artistic medium and general interests. Artists who are chosen for a specific project will be compensated for their service as an Allied Artist.

The Pre-Qualified Artist Pool is open to any artist/artist team for upcoming public art projects. Funding for the projects is provided by two percent (2%) of the Capital Improvement Program. Upon selection, the pre-qualified list of artists will remain in effect for two (2) years. Any professional artist/artist team working in any media are encouraged to apply.

El Paso’s Public Art Program is looking for artists residing within a 300 mile radius of El Paso to create an exterior three-dimensional memorial that pays tribute to the El Paso Veterans of Foreign Wars at Veterans Park, 5301 Salem Dr. Budget is $50,000 inclusive of design, fabrication and installation.

For details on submission requirements and the application process please visit www.elpasoartsandculture.organd click on the “public art opportunities” tab.

Halloween Happiness 2012

All 16 Recreation Centers and one Library Location will have free activities on October 31^st from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

            El Paso, Texas - Halloween activities will be taking place at all Recreation Centers from the City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department along with Esperanza Acosta Moreno Library in east El Paso from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Halloween Night, (October 31, 2012).

          The festivities will be free with a carnival, jumping balloons, and much more in a safe and family-friendly atmosphere. The Parks and Recreation Department looks forward to hosting thousands of children and their parents for a great night of Halloween excitement. 

                                                                                Halloween locations are below:

Name of Center                                        Address of Location                      Contact Phone No.

Armijo                                                       700 E. 7^thSt.                                    544-5436

Carolina                                                     563 N. Carolina Dr.                        594-8934

Chihuahuita                                               417 Charles Rd.                               533-6909

Don Haskins                                              7400 High Ridge St.                       587-1623

*Esperanza Acosta Moreno Library       12480 Pebble Hills Dr.                   544-0753

Gary Del Palacio                                       3001 Parkwood St.                         629-7312

Galatzan                                                     650 Wallenberg St.                         581-5182

Leona Ford Washington                          3400 E. Missouri Ave.                   562-7071

Marty Robbins                                          11620 Vista Del Sol                       855-4147

Multipurpose                                            9031 Viscount  Blvd.                     598-1155

Nolan Richardson                                     4435 Maxwell St.                            755-7566

Pat O’Rourke                                            901 N. Virginia St.                          533-1611

Pavo Real                                                  9301 Alameda Ave.                        858-1929

Rae Gilmore                                              8501 Diana Dr.                                751-4945

Seville                                                        6700 Sambrano St.                         778-6722

San Juan                                                    701 N. Glenwood St.                      779-2799

Veterans                                                    5301 Salem St.                                821-8909

*Library site is being managed by El Paso Parks and Recreation staff

How to Request a School Zone Flasher Signal

The City of El Paso Department of Transportation (EPDoT) is reminding residents about the process for getting school zone flasher signals installed in their neighborhoods. 

The El Paso Department of Transportation works with school principals and their respective school district administrations to develop a plan for school zone flashers. 

Residents or parents who believe a school zone flasher is needed must first file a request with the principal of the school in their neighborhood. The principal will then send concerns to the school district. If approved, school district administrators must send a written request to EPDoT. 

EPDoT engineers will evaluate the request, meet with school district administrators and study the area to see if a school zone flasher signal is warranted. 

Residents may contact the El Paso Department of Transportation for additional information at 621-6750. 

I-10 / Americas Closures

COMPLETE CLOSURES FOR TONIGHT:

7 p.m. to 6 a.m. (the following morning)

     I-10 West between the Joe Battle/Americas Exit Ramp and the I-10 Entrance Ramp

     North to Westbound Clover Ramp

 

8 p.m. to 6 a.m. (the following morning)

     Northbound lanes on Loop 375 between the North Loop Overpass (Americas) and the Pellicano Overpass (Joe Battle)

 

8 p.m. to 6 a.m. (the following morning)- continuing each night through Monday, October 1

     I-10 East between the Americas Exit Ramp and the Americas (Loop 375) Overpass

     Gateway East between the Americas Exit Ramp and the Americas (Loop 375) Overpass

These closures will not take place simultaneously

 

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The northbound lanes on Loop 375 between the North Loop Overpass (Americas) and the Pellicano Overpass (Joe Battle) will be completely closed Wednesday, September 26 from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. (the following morning).

  

The right lane on Gateway West between the West to Southbound Ramp and Don Haskins Dr. will be closed Wednesday, September 26 and Thursday, September 27 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

  

The following closures will be in place Wednesday, September 26 through Friday, September 28:

8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

     South to Westbound Ramp will be closed daily between Joe Battle Blvd. and Gateway West

 

7 p.m. to 6 a.m.

     Gateway West closed nightly between the West to Southbound Ramp and the South to Westbound Ramp

 

The following closures will be in place Thursday, September 27:

7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

     West to Southbound Clover Ramp between Gateway West and Joe Battle Blvd.

     Southbound lanes on Joe Battle Blvd. between the South to Westbound Ramp and East to Southbound Ramp

 

9 p.m. to 12 a.m. (the following morning)

Complete closures of the southbound lanes on Joe Battle (Loop 375) between Bob Hope Dr. and Rojas Dr.

 

11 p.m. to 6 a.m. (the following morning)

     Northbound lanes on Loop 375 between the North Loop Overpass (Americas) and the Pellicano Overpass (Joe Battle) will be completely closed

 

The following closures will be in place Friday, September 28 through Monday October 1:

Friday at 10 a.m. and remaining closed through Monday October 1 at 6 a.m.

     Gateway West between the West to Southbound Ramp and Don Haskins Dr.

 

Friday through Monday, October 1 each night from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. (following morning)

     Southbound lanes on Joe Battle Blvd. between the South to Westbound Ramp and East to Southbound Ramp

Mayor Makes Decision on Ballpark

I have given this issue much thought and soul searching and have come to the conclusion that it is not in the best interest of the City of El Paso for the Mayor to use his veto power.  Based upon the information I have been provided by the City Manager and the investor group, I believe any delay might cause us to lose this opportunity.

The reasons for my decision are as follows:

 

1. No voter approval on Quality of Life projects

I was troubled by the fact we are overturning a long standing policy of securing voter approval before proceeding with Quality of Life projects. The City Manager and staff have made the argument that the ballpark is really an economic development project and deserves to be treated as such. The City of El Paso regularly approves economic development projects without voter approval. Further, I was reminded of the fact that past signature quality of life projects were done without voter approval, such as the Plaza Theater and the El Paso Art Museum and both are gems in our Downtown and successful.

 

1. Demolition of City Hall

After researching possible sites, an alternate site for the baseball stadium could have been the buildings south of the Convention Center all the way to Paisano Drive which includes 38 parcels of land owned by 22 different owners for a total land value of $25 million.  The selection of this site would have created the need to use eminent domain and might require the City to incur expensive attorney fees and court costs.

It would have also slowed down the process and possibly kill the idea for a ball park. Additionally, the condition of City Hall and the price tag of $30 million to renovate would not be an overall benefit to the City. The $13 million appraised value of City Hall is comparable with the research that I did on other large downtown properties that include Wells Fargo, Chase and El Paso Electric buildings which were sold in the last five years and were appraised within the range of $12 - $15 million. This assessment supports the argument to use the City Hall site.

1. Negative Impact to Quality of Life Election

I am concerned that the ballpark opposition will harm the Quality of Life bond election. However, all the supporters of the ballpark project have indicated they will work to support the Quality of Life election. I would encourage all to put aside their differences and look at what is best for our entire community. The 2012 bond election includes projects for the entire City and will provide the funding to pay for the stadium without using taxpayer money. I urge everyone to support the bond to further the vision of having a vibrant quality of life for our citizens and those that come to visit our City.

Next Steps in Ballpark Process

On Tuesday, September 18 City approved the following actions:

Lease between the City of El Paso and Mountain Star Sports Group, LLC 

Development agreement that outlines the plan/process that will take place to construct the ballpark 

Non-relocation agreement that clarifies that the team will not relocate for 25 years following the start of the first season

Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 017850 for the purpose of clarifying the ballot language regarding the Venue Project and Hotel Occupancy Tax Proposition

Ordinance amending Homestead exemption 

Resolution that authorizes the use of Construction Manager-at-Risk method for construction of the ballpark

Construction Manager-at-Risk allows the City, Construction Manager and Architect/Engineer to work as a unified team and has the potential to expedite construction schedules when established as the method that will produce the best value for a selected City project.  

Construction Manager-At-Risk Procurement Policy 

The next steps in the process are :

Finalize contract of purchase - 2 buildings and 1 parking area

801/811 Texas

300 North Campbell 

Parking lot - has two addresses because it is actually two parcels:  401 Mills (most used) and 400 East Main

      Design Architect Contract

Request For Qualifications (RFQ) received

Contract to Council end of October

Owner Representative Contract

This individual that will assist the City in working out ballpark construction issues

Issue RFQ by October

Construction Manager-at –Risk Contract

Issue RFQ by October

Create Demolition package

Prepare design/ specifications

Issue notice to proceed

Bid out contract for actual demolition

Create Utility relocation package

Prepare plan to relocate utilities on City hall site and in surrounding area

Relocation Process

Space planning at new locations in process

Complete timeline to move each floor/ department

Extras Needed for 'Fort Bliss' Film

The production team filming the upcoming feature film 'Fort Bliss' is looking for volunteers to appear in a homecoming scene.

They will need Soldiers to march through the doors and family members to greet their loved ones, as if they had just returned from Afghanistan.

Extras are needed to serve as both the redeploying Soldiers and their family members welcoming them home.

Soldiers, either Active, Guard, or Reserve, and family members or El Pasoans wishing to participate need to arrive at the Arrival and Departure Airfield, or ADACG, at 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, October 7th.

In order to present an accurate and professional image of the Army, all Soldiers wishing to appear in the film must be in full compliance with all Army regulations on grooming and appearance.  All Soldiers will appear in ACU, not Multicam, with 1st Armored Division patches on both sleeves. Civilians should dress in attire appropriate for a military homecoming.

For more information on the opportunity to appear in the film, or to RSVP, please email filmfortbliss@gmail.com.

Tenet Announces $67 Million Expansion at Sierra Providence East Medical Center

Tenet Healthcare Corporation today announced a $67 million investment in Sierra Providence East Medical Center in El Paso, Texas, that will further the hospital’s mission to provide high-quality care to the eastside community. The project includes the construction of a four-story tower and the expansion of the hospital’s existing patient tower and emergency department, totaling more than 145,000 square feet.

“We are excited to be expanding our hospital after only four years,” said Sally Hurt, chief executive officer of Sierra Providence East Medical Center. “Since we opened our doors in 2008, an increasing number of patients have trusted us with their medical needs. We are proud to be a provider of choice and we look forward to increasing our capacity of care, enhancing our services and bringing new jobs to our community.”

The primary focus of the expansion will be the new four-story tower that will add 30 surgical beds and 30 medical beds. The project includes the addition of a 12-bed cardiovascular intensive care unit and will increase the emergency department capacity from 21 beds to 31 beds. The construction will also expand the cafeteria, add classrooms for community education and relocate the administrative offices.

“This expansion is a testament to Tenet’s continued commitment to serve the health care needs of the El Paso community,” said Tim Adams, senior vice president of operations for Tenet’s Central States region. “The tower and associated developments will enhance the hospitals’ ability to grow alongside its patient base while offering comprehensive care under one roof.”

Construction is slated to begin in December 2012 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2014.

Important City Council Meeting On Tuesday!

On September 18, 2012 the following items will go before City Council for discussion and action and are scheduled to begin at 10:30 am.

 

1.   Lease between the City of El Paso and Mountain Star Sports Group, LLC (along with development and non-relocation agreements)* (Public hearing ,discussion and action)

2.   Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 017850 for the purpose of clarifying the ballot language regarding the Venue Project and Hotel Occupancy Tax Proposition (Public hearing, discussion and action)

3.       Ordinance amending Homestead exemption (Public hearing, discussion and action)

4.       Petition Ordinance (discussion and action)

5.       Contract of purchase - 2 buildings and 1 parking area(Discussion and action)

a.      801/811 Texas

b.      300 North Campbell

c.       Parking lot -  has two addresses because it is actually two parcels:  401 Mills (most used) and 400 East Main

Mayors Wager on Battle of I-10

Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima and El Paso Mayor John Cook have entered into a flag-waving wager over Saturday’s Aggies-Miners game.

The mayor whose team wins will have his city’s flag flown in front of the defeated mayor’s City Hall.

“Mayor Cook and I are huge supporters of our college teams. We look forward to the annual rivalry game and in the spirit of friendly fun will fly the flag of the city whose team wins,” Miyagishima said.

Kickoff is 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept, 15^th at Sun Bowl Stadium in El Paso. 

EPCC’S LITERARY FIESTA: A CELEBRATION OF READERS, WRITERS AND BOOKS

EPCC’S LITERARY FIESTA: A CELEBRATION OF READERS, WRITERS AND BOOKS     

El Paso Community College will hold its 4^th annual Literary Fiesta to display the works and recognize local and area writers. The Fiesta will take place Friday, September 21 and Saturday, September 22 at the college’s Administrative Services Center (ASC), 9050 Viscount. 

Opening Reception and Awards Presentation 

5:45-7:30 p.m., Fri., Sept. 21, ASC Boardroom

►Presentation of EPCC’s Literary Legacy Award to Marcia Hatfield Daudistel

    Presentation of EPCC’s Community Spirit Award to BorderSenses 

    Entertainment by César Iván/Readings by Richard Yáñez

 

All Day Literary Fiesta

10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Sat., Sept. 22, ASC Boardroom

Book sellers, food, music, arts & crafts vendors and children’s storytelling center

Free books for all children provided by Books are GEMS 

►Nephtalí de León, Chicano poet/painter -10-10:45 a.m., ASC Boardroom

►César Iván, local artist/musician- 11-11:45 a.m., ASC Boardroom

►BorderSenses, Memorias del Silencio: Footprints of the Borderland (stories from migrant 

    workers), noon-12:45 p.m., ASC Boardroom

►Marcia Hatfield Daudistel, a conversation, 1:10-2:30 p.m., ASC Boardroom

►Readings by: Daniel Chacón, Sasha Pimental Chacón and Benjamٕín Alire Saénz.

Sponsored by the Literary Fiesta Committee, the EPCC Office of the President, Salute to the Arts & PaPaGaYo Literacy Center, all events are FREE and open to the public.