Events at Parks and Recreation Senior Centers
The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department will have two New Year’s Eve Dances at area senior centers.
Wellington Chew Senior Center 4430 Maxwell 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
(Admission Fee - $5 per person) (ages 55 and over)
Entertainment by Essencia (Three person group)
Party Favors will be supplied and gifts for the New Year
More Information – call Norma Huitron at (915) 757-2523
San Juan Senior Center 5701 Tamburo Ct. 8:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
Admission Fee - $35 per couple
Admission Fee - $17.50 per individual
(Food is included in admission price – and will be served at 8:00 p.m.)
Will also have noisemakers and party favors
Open to ages 55 and over
Entertainment by Los Galaxies
More Information – Ray Alvardao – (915) 772-8365
Monday, December 29, 2008
"Bits and Pieces of El Paso"
Tuesday, December 30th
11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
While college football games were growing in popularity, working cowboys were having their food prepared on the tailgate of modified chuck wagons. Perhaps this is how the tailgating tradition began. See what it’s like to sit in a saddle; see the cooking utensils used to make those memorable cowboy meals; mud coffee and beans. Grind coffee, heft a cast iron Dutch oven, try on a pair of spurs, chaps and a hat; just have fun being a real cowboy. The bell rings at noon for a sampling of beans and barbeque served up by Mo'z BBQ -- first come first served.
Be sure to stick around for a special dance from Folklorico performers of Cafe Quetzalcoatl at 2:00 p.m. The Children's Calavera Folklorico represents traditions of the Dia de los Muertos celebration held in Mexico and celebrated annually in El Paso. Experience tidbits of El Paso culture by visiting the Museum of History’s four exhibit galleries. All events are FREE and open to all ages.
The Museum invites you to take this opportunity to participate in a cowboy cultural celebration featuring a sampling of real Texas barbeque, beans and dance!
11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
While college football games were growing in popularity, working cowboys were having their food prepared on the tailgate of modified chuck wagons. Perhaps this is how the tailgating tradition began. See what it’s like to sit in a saddle; see the cooking utensils used to make those memorable cowboy meals; mud coffee and beans. Grind coffee, heft a cast iron Dutch oven, try on a pair of spurs, chaps and a hat; just have fun being a real cowboy. The bell rings at noon for a sampling of beans and barbeque served up by Mo'z BBQ -- first come first served.
Be sure to stick around for a special dance from Folklorico performers of Cafe Quetzalcoatl at 2:00 p.m. The Children's Calavera Folklorico represents traditions of the Dia de los Muertos celebration held in Mexico and celebrated annually in El Paso. Experience tidbits of El Paso culture by visiting the Museum of History’s four exhibit galleries. All events are FREE and open to all ages.
The Museum invites you to take this opportunity to participate in a cowboy cultural celebration featuring a sampling of real Texas barbeque, beans and dance!
Sun Metro New Year’s Holiday Schedule
EL PASO, TEXAS – In observance of the New Year Holiday, Sun Metro will provide holiday bus service by operating on a regular Sunday Schedule.
For Thursday, January 1, 2009, Sun Metro will operate as follows:
All bus routes will follow a regular Sunday schedule
LIFT service will run on a Sunday schedule with call center limited to same day service calls.
The Customer service line will follow a Sunday Schedule and will remain open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Eastside Transit Terminal (1165 Sunmount Drive) and Union Plaza Transit Terminal (400 W. San Antonio) stores will be closed on Thursday, January 1st and will resume a regular schedule on Friday, January 2nd.
Administrative offices will remain closed from Thursday, January 1st thru Friday, January 2nd, 2009 in observance of the New Year’s Holiday and will resume a regular schedule on Monday, January 5th, 2009.
For more information, call 533.3333.
For Thursday, January 1, 2009, Sun Metro will operate as follows:
All bus routes will follow a regular Sunday schedule
LIFT service will run on a Sunday schedule with call center limited to same day service calls.
The Customer service line will follow a Sunday Schedule and will remain open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Eastside Transit Terminal (1165 Sunmount Drive) and Union Plaza Transit Terminal (400 W. San Antonio) stores will be closed on Thursday, January 1st and will resume a regular schedule on Friday, January 2nd.
Administrative offices will remain closed from Thursday, January 1st thru Friday, January 2nd, 2009 in observance of the New Year’s Holiday and will resume a regular schedule on Monday, January 5th, 2009.
For more information, call 533.3333.
No Fireworks in the City for New Year's
El Paso Fire Department Officials would like to wish the Citizens of El Paso a Safe and Happy New Year and would like to remind them that if they are planning to celebrate the New Year by using fireworks to please remember to keep them outside the city limits. The same laws that apply to and are enforced during the July 4th holiday are also in effect for the New Year Holiday and throughout the year.
If anyone is caught in possession of fireworks inside the City of El Paso, their fireworks will be confiscated and they will be issued a class C citation punishable by a fine not to exceed $500.00.
El Paso Fire Officials are asking the public to attend one of the many professional firework displays throughout the city and offer these firework injury facts.
More than 50 percent of firework injuries occur to children and teenagers.
The top three injury-causing fireworks are firecrackers, sparklers, and rockets
Children most often suffer burns, lacerations and eye injuries.
There were 9,200 emergency room-treated injuries associated with fireworks in 2006.
If anyone is caught in possession of fireworks inside the City of El Paso, their fireworks will be confiscated and they will be issued a class C citation punishable by a fine not to exceed $500.00.
El Paso Fire Officials are asking the public to attend one of the many professional firework displays throughout the city and offer these firework injury facts.
More than 50 percent of firework injuries occur to children and teenagers.
The top three injury-causing fireworks are firecrackers, sparklers, and rockets
Children most often suffer burns, lacerations and eye injuries.
There were 9,200 emergency room-treated injuries associated with fireworks in 2006.
New Year's Eve Random Safety Inspections
Following the tragic nightclub incidents that occurred in Rhode Island where 96 people died when a fire erupted during a concert, and in Chicago where 21 people died as a result of being trampled or suffocated after a fight broke out, many local fire jurisdictions across the country reviewed their fire safety codes and increased inspections of local nightclubs to enforce existing codes. These codes included sufficient emergency exits, illuminated exit signs, and occupancy limits. Compliance of these codes by nightclub owners is heavily dependent on the frequency of inspections by fire authorities and the severity of penalties involved for failure to comply.
On Wednesday, December 31st 2008, New Years Eve, The El Paso Fire Marshals Office will once again be conducting random safety inspections of nightclubs and dance halls throughout the city and checking for Fire Code Violations. These inspections have been a great success in the past and have been well received by the public and the establishment owners. Again the main goal for El Paso Fire Officials is the safety of the public as they celebrate the New Year.
Some of the violations being looked for again will include but are not limited to locked or blocked exits, overcrowding, the use of pyrotechnics, fire lane violations and other violations Fire Marshal Personnel deem to be a danger to the public. El Paso Fire Officials again are asking nightclub and dance halls owners to please keep the safety and welfare of the public in mind when planning their New Years Eve events and comply with the Fire Code. Anyone having any questions or wanting to report any violations can call the Fire Marshals Office at 771-1090.
On Wednesday, December 31st 2008, New Years Eve, The El Paso Fire Marshals Office will once again be conducting random safety inspections of nightclubs and dance halls throughout the city and checking for Fire Code Violations. These inspections have been a great success in the past and have been well received by the public and the establishment owners. Again the main goal for El Paso Fire Officials is the safety of the public as they celebrate the New Year.
Some of the violations being looked for again will include but are not limited to locked or blocked exits, overcrowding, the use of pyrotechnics, fire lane violations and other violations Fire Marshal Personnel deem to be a danger to the public. El Paso Fire Officials again are asking nightclub and dance halls owners to please keep the safety and welfare of the public in mind when planning their New Years Eve events and comply with the Fire Code. Anyone having any questions or wanting to report any violations can call the Fire Marshals Office at 771-1090.
Recycle Your Christmas Trees
Environmental Services to Convert Holiday Trees to Wood Chips and Mulch
The City of El Paso Environmental Services Department is once again offering citizens the opportunity to give their Christmas trees new life by turning them into wood chips and mulch.
Starting Dec. 29 citizens can dispose of their cut Christmas trees by taking them to any of the department’s five Citizen Collection Stations, which are strategically located throughout the community. This free service will be available through Jan. 10.
“The Christmas tree recycling service is a win-win, as it saves landfill space while providing residents with useful mulch for growing healthy plants,” Environmental Services Director Ellen Smyth said.
El Paso citizens recycled 4,146 Christmas trees last year.
Residents taking advantage of this service must remove the lights, ornaments, and decorations from the Christmas trees before dropping them off at a Citizen Collection Station. The stations are open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. They are located at:
121 Atlantic (off Doniphan)
2492 Harrison @ Alabama
9000 Escobar @ Zaragosa
4200 Delta
4501 Hondo Pass
Mulch and wood chips will be available to the public starting on Dec. 30 at the Atlantic, Hondo Pass and Escobar locations. Citizens are encouraged to take the free mulch home to use in their gardens to help enrich the soil and control weeds.
For more information citizens should call the Environmental Services Department at 621-6700.
Reminder: The Citizen Collection Stations will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
The City of El Paso Environmental Services Department is once again offering citizens the opportunity to give their Christmas trees new life by turning them into wood chips and mulch.
Starting Dec. 29 citizens can dispose of their cut Christmas trees by taking them to any of the department’s five Citizen Collection Stations, which are strategically located throughout the community. This free service will be available through Jan. 10.
“The Christmas tree recycling service is a win-win, as it saves landfill space while providing residents with useful mulch for growing healthy plants,” Environmental Services Director Ellen Smyth said.
El Paso citizens recycled 4,146 Christmas trees last year.
Residents taking advantage of this service must remove the lights, ornaments, and decorations from the Christmas trees before dropping them off at a Citizen Collection Station. The stations are open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. They are located at:
121 Atlantic (off Doniphan)
2492 Harrison @ Alabama
9000 Escobar @ Zaragosa
4200 Delta
4501 Hondo Pass
Mulch and wood chips will be available to the public starting on Dec. 30 at the Atlantic, Hondo Pass and Escobar locations. Citizens are encouraged to take the free mulch home to use in their gardens to help enrich the soil and control weeds.
For more information citizens should call the Environmental Services Department at 621-6700.
Reminder: The Citizen Collection Stations will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Two Unlicensed Discount Health Care Card Providers Assessed Fines
AUSTIN- Beginning April 1, 2008, all discount health care card providers
wanting to conduct
business in Texas were required to be licensed by the Texas Department of
Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Currently thirty-four (34) companies meet
state requirements and are legally acting as discount health care providers.
Prime Discount Card, located in Brentwood, Tennessee, advertised a discount
health care
program on their internet web site but did not hold a certificate of
registration to conduct business which is issued by the Texas Department of
Licensing and Regulation. The
advertisement is evidence the company was functioning as a healthcare
program operator,
therefore the company was cited a violation and received an administrative
penalty of $6,000.
National Health Partners, Inc., of Horsham, Pennsylvania, advertised on an
internet web site to provide, for a monthly fee, membership with access to
discounts for Texas healthcare providers who agreed in advance to honor the
CAREexpress membership card and accept discounted fees. National Health
Partners, Inc. did not hold a certificate of registration issued by the
Department. Violation of the law resulted in a $1,500 fine.
TDLR received authority to regulate the discount health care card industry
from the 80th Texas Legislature which created the "Discount Health Care
Programs Act" in 2007. Discount Health Care Cards are NOT health insurance.
They are non-insurance plans that offer consumers access to health care
services at discount rates. Before purchasing the plan consumers are
encouraged to confirm the company is licensed with the Texas Department of
Licensing and
Regulation. To review a list of the companies visit
http://www.license.state.tx.us/LicenseSearch.
wanting to conduct
business in Texas were required to be licensed by the Texas Department of
Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Currently thirty-four (34) companies meet
state requirements and are legally acting as discount health care providers.
Prime Discount Card, located in Brentwood, Tennessee, advertised a discount
health care
program on their internet web site but did not hold a certificate of
registration to conduct business which is issued by the Texas Department of
Licensing and Regulation. The
advertisement is evidence the company was functioning as a healthcare
program operator,
therefore the company was cited a violation and received an administrative
penalty of $6,000.
National Health Partners, Inc., of Horsham, Pennsylvania, advertised on an
internet web site to provide, for a monthly fee, membership with access to
discounts for Texas healthcare providers who agreed in advance to honor the
CAREexpress membership card and accept discounted fees. National Health
Partners, Inc. did not hold a certificate of registration issued by the
Department. Violation of the law resulted in a $1,500 fine.
TDLR received authority to regulate the discount health care card industry
from the 80th Texas Legislature which created the "Discount Health Care
Programs Act" in 2007. Discount Health Care Cards are NOT health insurance.
They are non-insurance plans that offer consumers access to health care
services at discount rates. Before purchasing the plan consumers are
encouraged to confirm the company is licensed with the Texas Department of
Licensing and
Regulation. To review a list of the companies visit
http://www.license.state.tx.us/LicenseSearch.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
SISD Fine Arts Director honored
Nellie Ponikvar, Socorro Independent School District Director of Fine Arts, was named the 2008 Music Administrator of the Year by the Texas Music Administrators Conference. She was selected among the 10,000 plus music educators from across the state for this honor. The Texas Music Educators Association will present her with the “2006-07 Texas Music Administrator of the Year” award in February during the association’s annual conference.
Ponikvar has been leading the SISD Fine Arts Department since 2001. She oversees band, choir, orchestra, piano, guitar, art, theater, mariachi, Academic Decathlon and all UIL academic competitions. The SISD Fine Arts Department impacts more than half of SISD’s 39,805 student population.
“I was in total shock for two days. This is the biggest honor I’ve ever received,” said Ponikvar. “This is the first time the award has been given to fine arts director in the El Paso area. This honor shows that they are recognizing programs in the El Paso area and that we are competitive on the state level.”
"This is a great honor for Nellie and Socorro ISD. Our students are the ones who are benefitting from her hard work and dedication. She devotes her time and energy to build a Fine Arts program that is being recognized and on par with any in this state," said Mary Benham, Interim Superintendent.
Ponikvar has been leading the SISD Fine Arts Department since 2001. She oversees band, choir, orchestra, piano, guitar, art, theater, mariachi, Academic Decathlon and all UIL academic competitions. The SISD Fine Arts Department impacts more than half of SISD’s 39,805 student population.
“I was in total shock for two days. This is the biggest honor I’ve ever received,” said Ponikvar. “This is the first time the award has been given to fine arts director in the El Paso area. This honor shows that they are recognizing programs in the El Paso area and that we are competitive on the state level.”
"This is a great honor for Nellie and Socorro ISD. Our students are the ones who are benefitting from her hard work and dedication. She devotes her time and energy to build a Fine Arts program that is being recognized and on par with any in this state," said Mary Benham, Interim Superintendent.
Boy Scout Troop 37 honors 12th Eagle Scout
What: Eagle Scout Court of Honor
Who: Chris Bonneau and Boy Scout Troop 37
Where: Jane A. Hambric School-3535 Nolan Richardson
When: December 20, 6 pm
Americas High School junior Chris Bonneau will be joining the ranks of Eagle Scouts. Bonneau who is a member of Boy Scout Troop 37 earned more than 30 merit badges and completed an individual leadership service project to achieve the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouting program. He will be recognized on Saturday, December 20 at 6 pm at Jane A. Hambric School, 3535 Nolan Richardson.
Bonneau will join his brother James who became an Eagle Scout two years ago and three of his classmates who were honored over the summer. Overall Boy Scout Troop 37 has 12 members who have achieved the Eagle Scout rank including Scout Master Jesus Beltran, who is the Assistant Principal at Jane A. Hambric. According to the Boy Scouts of America only 5% of all Boy Scouts become Eagle Scouts. For more information, please contact Jesus Beltran at 867-5087.
Who: Chris Bonneau and Boy Scout Troop 37
Where: Jane A. Hambric School-3535 Nolan Richardson
When: December 20, 6 pm
Americas High School junior Chris Bonneau will be joining the ranks of Eagle Scouts. Bonneau who is a member of Boy Scout Troop 37 earned more than 30 merit badges and completed an individual leadership service project to achieve the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouting program. He will be recognized on Saturday, December 20 at 6 pm at Jane A. Hambric School, 3535 Nolan Richardson.
Bonneau will join his brother James who became an Eagle Scout two years ago and three of his classmates who were honored over the summer. Overall Boy Scout Troop 37 has 12 members who have achieved the Eagle Scout rank including Scout Master Jesus Beltran, who is the Assistant Principal at Jane A. Hambric. According to the Boy Scouts of America only 5% of all Boy Scouts become Eagle Scouts. For more information, please contact Jesus Beltran at 867-5087.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Dallas X-treme Fight Night Sponsor Found Guilty of Promoting Without License
AUSTIN -Ben Jackson, a Dallas businessman, was found guilty Wednesday of
promoting combative sport events without the appropriate license. Following
the jury's guilty verdict County Criminal Court
Judge Elizabeth Frizzell sentenced Jackson to 120 days in jail and a $300
fine. Jackson's jail time was suspended and he was placed on probation for
a period of one year.
Unlicensed combative sport events have spread across the state and the Texas
Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) is actively uncovering and
investigating the occurrences. Illegal fights are dangerous for the boxers
and mixed martial art (MMA) fighters participating in the event; they
jeopardize the health and safety of the contestants by pairing fighters of
unequal weights and skill levels resulting in dangerously mismatched bouts.
These illegal events also endanger the fighters safety because no physicians
are on-site, no ambulance with EMS personnel is at the venue and no
evacuation plan has been established should a severe injury occur.
Prior to 2005 elimination tournaments, a/k/a, Toughman contests, were
occurring throughout Texas, and endangering the lives of the participants.
Senator Eddie Lucio Jr., author of the Texas Senate Bill 796, which
outlawed the tournaments, states, "I authored legislation to make certain
that when combative sports take place all necessary safety measures are in
effect, including a registration period, medical staff, and insurance. I
made a promise to the families of those that died or were injured in
"Toughman" competitions that irresponsible
promoters would no longer profit at the expense of Texans being injured or
killed for cheap entertainment."
Licensed promoters are required to conform to the health, safety and
practice requirements in the Combative Sports Law. TDLR's trained staff is
available to assist people wishing to promote combative sports events
in understanding and complying with the Law.
promoting combative sport events without the appropriate license. Following
the jury's guilty verdict County Criminal Court
Judge Elizabeth Frizzell sentenced Jackson to 120 days in jail and a $300
fine. Jackson's jail time was suspended and he was placed on probation for
a period of one year.
Unlicensed combative sport events have spread across the state and the Texas
Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) is actively uncovering and
investigating the occurrences. Illegal fights are dangerous for the boxers
and mixed martial art (MMA) fighters participating in the event; they
jeopardize the health and safety of the contestants by pairing fighters of
unequal weights and skill levels resulting in dangerously mismatched bouts.
These illegal events also endanger the fighters safety because no physicians
are on-site, no ambulance with EMS personnel is at the venue and no
evacuation plan has been established should a severe injury occur.
Prior to 2005 elimination tournaments, a/k/a, Toughman contests, were
occurring throughout Texas, and endangering the lives of the participants.
Senator Eddie Lucio Jr., author of the Texas Senate Bill 796, which
outlawed the tournaments, states, "I authored legislation to make certain
that when combative sports take place all necessary safety measures are in
effect, including a registration period, medical staff, and insurance. I
made a promise to the families of those that died or were injured in
"Toughman" competitions that irresponsible
promoters would no longer profit at the expense of Texans being injured or
killed for cheap entertainment."
Licensed promoters are required to conform to the health, safety and
practice requirements in the Combative Sports Law. TDLR's trained staff is
available to assist people wishing to promote combative sports events
in understanding and complying with the Law.
Gov. Perry Challenges Governors to Participate in 'Capitol Steps'
Program encourages participants to get active, meet fitness goals
AUSTIN - Gov. Rick Perry has challenged governors from 49 other states to
participate in the "Capitol Steps Challenge," a two-week contest intended to
lead the charge to combat obesity in America.
"Across our nation, obesity rates are growing at an alarming rate, and the
cost of treating obesity related diseases and lost productivity amounts to
an estimated $122.9 billion a year," Gov. Perry said. "As governors, we must
set the example for our states and highlight ways we can address preventable
health problems."
For this challenge, Virgin HealthMiles, a company that focuses on
encouraging active lifestyles, has agreed to assist by providing high-tech
pedometers to each of the governors and their team members. Participants
will be able to upload their fitness results to a secure HealthMiles website
and track their progress. At the conclusion, Virgin HealthMiles will declare
the Most Active Governor's Team in the nation, based on average per person
activity.
"The fact of the matter is that everyone who participates is a winner
because they are setting the pace for healthy lifestyles," the governor
added.
"While we know the path to success is through hard work and determination,
sometimes an incentive waiting at the finish line helps us to persevere,"
Gov. Perry said. "Virgin HealthMiles's program is unlike any other I've
seen, and it is producing impressive results toward keeping people motivated
to stay active and lose weight.
The Centers for Disease Control estimate that more than 60 percent of all
American adults are either overweight or obese, with the cost of treating
obesity related diseases and lost productivity at an estimated $122.9
billion per year. In Texas, the adult obesity rate is 27 percent, well above
the 24.2 percent national average. Obesity cost Texas businesses an
estimated $3.3 billion in 2005, and without efforts to combat it, the cost
is expected to grow to $15.8 billion annually by 2025.
The Capitol Steps Challenge will begin on Jan. 1, 2009, and last for two
weeks. Each governor is encouraged to create a team of 10 to 20
cabinet-level staff to participate in the challenge. Virgin HealthMiles will
provide pedometers to each team member, and participants can upload their
activities and results on a web based program. The winning state team will
be declared the Most Active Governor's Team in the nation at the Capitol
Steps Challenge Awards event Feb. 21, 2009, in Washington D.C. They will
also be presented with a $50,000 donation to their state's childhood obesity
program by Sir Richard Branson and Virgin HealthMiles.
"It's an honor for Virgin HealthMiles to work with Gov. Perry to bring
awareness to the important issue of improving the health and wellness of
citizens across the country," said Sean Forbes, President of Virgin
HealthMiles. "Having governors join together and lead by example about the
value of increased physical activity is an extremely positive message for
all of us concerned with fighting obesity. We're excited to be part of the
Capitol Steps Challenge and look forward to providing a fun and engaging
experience."
Gov. Perry's team, "Team Texas", includes Agriculture Commissioner Todd
Staples, Secretary of State Esperanza "Hope" Andrade, Texas Railroad
Commissioners Michael Williams and Elizabeth Ames Jones, Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality commissioners Bryan Shaw, Larry Soward and Buddy
Garcia, Public Utility commissioners Kenneth Anderson, Donna Nelson and
Barry Smitherman, Texas Health and Human Services Executive Commissioner
Albert Hawkins, Texas Department of State Health Services Commissioner David
Lakey, Texas Department of Criminal Justice Executive Director Brad
Livingston, Texas Department of Public Safety Executive Director Stan Clark,
Texas Education Commissioner Robert Scott, Texas Land Commissioner Jerry
Patterson, Texas Youth Commission Executive Director Cherie Townsend, Texas
Department of Transportation Executive Director Amadeo Saenz Jr., Texas
Health and Human Services Executive Commissioner Albert Hawkins, Texas Parks
and Wildlife Executive Director Carter Smith and Texas Department of
Insurance Commissioner Mike Geeslin.
To date, states who have committed to the challenge include Alabama, Alaska,
Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Kentucky, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and
Wisconsin.
Virgin HealthMiles provides a unique, incentive-based fitness program that
offers cash rewards of up to $500 annually to members who meet their fitness
goals. Currently, about 50,000 Texans are enrolled in the program; last
year, those Texans lost about 250,000 pounds. (For the purposes of the
Capitol Steps challenge the incentives do not apply.)
For more information on the challenge please visit
www.virginhealthmiles.com/capitolstepschallenge.
AUSTIN - Gov. Rick Perry has challenged governors from 49 other states to
participate in the "Capitol Steps Challenge," a two-week contest intended to
lead the charge to combat obesity in America.
"Across our nation, obesity rates are growing at an alarming rate, and the
cost of treating obesity related diseases and lost productivity amounts to
an estimated $122.9 billion a year," Gov. Perry said. "As governors, we must
set the example for our states and highlight ways we can address preventable
health problems."
For this challenge, Virgin HealthMiles, a company that focuses on
encouraging active lifestyles, has agreed to assist by providing high-tech
pedometers to each of the governors and their team members. Participants
will be able to upload their fitness results to a secure HealthMiles website
and track their progress. At the conclusion, Virgin HealthMiles will declare
the Most Active Governor's Team in the nation, based on average per person
activity.
"The fact of the matter is that everyone who participates is a winner
because they are setting the pace for healthy lifestyles," the governor
added.
"While we know the path to success is through hard work and determination,
sometimes an incentive waiting at the finish line helps us to persevere,"
Gov. Perry said. "Virgin HealthMiles's program is unlike any other I've
seen, and it is producing impressive results toward keeping people motivated
to stay active and lose weight.
The Centers for Disease Control estimate that more than 60 percent of all
American adults are either overweight or obese, with the cost of treating
obesity related diseases and lost productivity at an estimated $122.9
billion per year. In Texas, the adult obesity rate is 27 percent, well above
the 24.2 percent national average. Obesity cost Texas businesses an
estimated $3.3 billion in 2005, and without efforts to combat it, the cost
is expected to grow to $15.8 billion annually by 2025.
The Capitol Steps Challenge will begin on Jan. 1, 2009, and last for two
weeks. Each governor is encouraged to create a team of 10 to 20
cabinet-level staff to participate in the challenge. Virgin HealthMiles will
provide pedometers to each team member, and participants can upload their
activities and results on a web based program. The winning state team will
be declared the Most Active Governor's Team in the nation at the Capitol
Steps Challenge Awards event Feb. 21, 2009, in Washington D.C. They will
also be presented with a $50,000 donation to their state's childhood obesity
program by Sir Richard Branson and Virgin HealthMiles.
"It's an honor for Virgin HealthMiles to work with Gov. Perry to bring
awareness to the important issue of improving the health and wellness of
citizens across the country," said Sean Forbes, President of Virgin
HealthMiles. "Having governors join together and lead by example about the
value of increased physical activity is an extremely positive message for
all of us concerned with fighting obesity. We're excited to be part of the
Capitol Steps Challenge and look forward to providing a fun and engaging
experience."
Gov. Perry's team, "Team Texas", includes Agriculture Commissioner Todd
Staples, Secretary of State Esperanza "Hope" Andrade, Texas Railroad
Commissioners Michael Williams and Elizabeth Ames Jones, Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality commissioners Bryan Shaw, Larry Soward and Buddy
Garcia, Public Utility commissioners Kenneth Anderson, Donna Nelson and
Barry Smitherman, Texas Health and Human Services Executive Commissioner
Albert Hawkins, Texas Department of State Health Services Commissioner David
Lakey, Texas Department of Criminal Justice Executive Director Brad
Livingston, Texas Department of Public Safety Executive Director Stan Clark,
Texas Education Commissioner Robert Scott, Texas Land Commissioner Jerry
Patterson, Texas Youth Commission Executive Director Cherie Townsend, Texas
Department of Transportation Executive Director Amadeo Saenz Jr., Texas
Health and Human Services Executive Commissioner Albert Hawkins, Texas Parks
and Wildlife Executive Director Carter Smith and Texas Department of
Insurance Commissioner Mike Geeslin.
To date, states who have committed to the challenge include Alabama, Alaska,
Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Kentucky, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and
Wisconsin.
Virgin HealthMiles provides a unique, incentive-based fitness program that
offers cash rewards of up to $500 annually to members who meet their fitness
goals. Currently, about 50,000 Texans are enrolled in the program; last
year, those Texans lost about 250,000 pounds. (For the purposes of the
Capitol Steps challenge the incentives do not apply.)
For more information on the challenge please visit
www.virginhealthmiles.com/capitolstepschallenge.
Meet the Mayor Day
Mayor Cook Opens His Door to the Public
WHO: Mayor John Cook
WHAT: will hold his monthly “Open Door” meeting
WHEN: Wednesday, December 17, 2008
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
WHERE: City Hall, 10th Floor
2 Civic Center Plaza
WHY: As part of the Mayor’s community outreach, he is making himself available to the public with a monthly “Open Door” meeting day.
The public is welcome to visit with the Mayor and discuss concerns, ideas or just give input on how to improve our community.
WHO: Mayor John Cook
WHAT: will hold his monthly “Open Door” meeting
WHEN: Wednesday, December 17, 2008
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
WHERE: City Hall, 10th Floor
2 Civic Center Plaza
WHY: As part of the Mayor’s community outreach, he is making himself available to the public with a monthly “Open Door” meeting day.
The public is welcome to visit with the Mayor and discuss concerns, ideas or just give input on how to improve our community.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
500,000 Rio Grande Silvery Minnows Released into River at Big Bend National Park
More than 50 years have passed since the native fish swam in Texas waters
The US Fish and Wildlife Service is pleased to invite you to attend the
initial release of 500,000 Rio Grande silvery minnows into the Rio Grande
at Big Bend National Park. The fish will be distributed into holding cages
at four sites where they will stay overnight to acclimate. The next day,
the fish will be released from the cages into the Rio Grande.
The release supports our plan to recover the rare minnow so that it no
longer needs the protection of the Endangered Species Act. The Rio Grande
silvery minnow will be reintroduced into its namesake river under a
provision of the Endangered Species Act that allows local communities
greater flexibility in establishing parameters for reintroduction.
Who: US Fish and Wildlife Service
What: Release of native fish into Big Bend reach of the Rio Grande
Where: Big Bend National Park, Texas
Meet at the Rio Grande Village located 20 miles east of the
Park Headquarters
When: Tuesday, Dec. 16 at 1 p.m.
Contacts: USFWS - Aimee Roberson, (432) 837-0747,
Aimee_Roberson@fws.gov
USFWS - Elizabeth Slown, (505) 248-6909 or (505) 363-9592,
Elizabeth_Slown@fws.gov
NPS - David Elkowitz, 432 477-1107,
David_Elkowitz@nps.gov for park information
NEWS RELEASE
Project will Restore Native Minnow to Rio Grande
The reach of the Rio Grande that flows through Big Bend National Park will
play an important role in recovering a native fish that has been absent
from Texas waters for more than fifty years.
According to a rule published today in the Federal Register, the Rio Grande
silvery minnow will be reintroduced into its namesake river under a
provision of the Endangered Species Act that allows local communities
greater flexibility in establishing parameters for reintroduction.
Approximately 500,000 Rio Grande silvery minnows will be placed into the
river on Dec. 17. (Media – please note you are invited to cover the event.
Information follows news release.)
The release supports the agency’s plan to recover the rare minnow so that
it no longer needs the protection of the Endangered Species Act.
Reintroduced minnows in the Texas reach of the river will be considered
nonessential and experimental. The designation is allowed under section
10(j) of the ESA which encourages the reintroduction of a species by
reducing regulations. “Using a nonessential, experimental designation
ensures that the daily activities of water users and landowners are
unaffected by the reintroduction,” said Benjamin N. Tuggle, Southwest
Regional Director for the Service. “Community leaders told us they were
supportive of the reintroduction program but emphasized they needed to
count on reliable flows and water delivery. We can satisfy both fish and
human needs.”
The Rio Grande silvery minnow is a small fish that was once one of the most
abundant and widespread of the native fishes in the Rio Grande and Pecos
River. It existed from northern New Mexico to the Gulf of Mexico in Texas.
Today the endangered silvery minnow occupies only about five percent of its
historic range in the middle Rio Grande in New Mexico. Throughout much of
its historic range, the decline of the Rio Grande silvery minnow has been
attributed to modification of the flow regime, channel drying, reservoirs
and dams, stream channelization, decreasing water quality and perhaps
interactions with non-native fish. During it various life stages, the
silvery minnow uses low velocity habitats with a sandy and silty substrate
associated with a meandering river that includes side channels, oxbows, and
backwaters.
The Service’s preferred approach to recovering the Rio Grande silvery
minnow is to create self-sustaining populations in at least three areas of
its historic range. “The Big Bend reach has been identified as the area
within the species’ historic range most likely to support an additional
population,” said Tuggle. “It is our first priority area for
repopulation.”
The minnows will come from the City of Albuquerque’s RGSM Rearing and
Breeding Facility and the Service’s Dexter National Fish Hatchery and
Technology Center in New Mexico. The Center breeds and rears fish to
maximize genetic diversity and supplement wild populations.
Reintroductions will initially only take place on public lands. Private
lands may be included in the future but only with direct consent from the
land owner or manager.
The monitoring program will contribute to existing data and will use
statistically valid methods to assess changes in age-class structure and
abundance of Rio Grande silvery minnow and other fish. “After the initial
stocking, we will monitor to see how the fish is faring and look for any
spawning behavior or young-of-year fish that might be present,” said
Tuggle.
The Rio Grande from Little Box Canyon downstream of Ft. Quitman, Hudspeth
County, through Big Bend National Park and the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic
River, to Amistad and the Pecos River from its confluence with Independence
Creek to its confluence with the Rio Grande, has been designated as a
nonessential experimental population area. Although only portions contain
suitable habitat, this area represents the maximum geographic extent to
which the fish could move if released in the Big Bend stretch of the Rio
Grande. Rio Grande silvery minnow will only be released in the Rio Grande
and are not expected to move into the Pecos River.
The reintroduction project was first proposed in 2007. Today’s final rule
is available on the internet at www.fws.gov/southwest/es/AustinTexas. To
request a paper copy or a compact disc, please call 512-490-0057, or write
to Adam Zerrenner, Field Supervisor, Austin Ecological Services Field
Office, 10711 Burnet Road, Suite 200, Austin, Texas, 78758.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to
conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for
the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and
trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific
excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated
professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our
work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.
-FWS-
For more information about fish and wildlife conservation in the Southwest,
visit http://www.fws.gov/southwest/
The US Fish and Wildlife Service is pleased to invite you to attend the
initial release of 500,000 Rio Grande silvery minnows into the Rio Grande
at Big Bend National Park. The fish will be distributed into holding cages
at four sites where they will stay overnight to acclimate. The next day,
the fish will be released from the cages into the Rio Grande.
The release supports our plan to recover the rare minnow so that it no
longer needs the protection of the Endangered Species Act. The Rio Grande
silvery minnow will be reintroduced into its namesake river under a
provision of the Endangered Species Act that allows local communities
greater flexibility in establishing parameters for reintroduction.
Who: US Fish and Wildlife Service
What: Release of native fish into Big Bend reach of the Rio Grande
Where: Big Bend National Park, Texas
Meet at the Rio Grande Village located 20 miles east of the
Park Headquarters
When: Tuesday, Dec. 16 at 1 p.m.
Contacts: USFWS - Aimee Roberson, (432) 837-0747,
Aimee_Roberson@fws.gov
USFWS - Elizabeth Slown, (505) 248-6909 or (505) 363-9592,
Elizabeth_Slown@fws.gov
NPS - David Elkowitz, 432 477-1107,
David_Elkowitz@nps.gov for park information
NEWS RELEASE
Project will Restore Native Minnow to Rio Grande
The reach of the Rio Grande that flows through Big Bend National Park will
play an important role in recovering a native fish that has been absent
from Texas waters for more than fifty years.
According to a rule published today in the Federal Register, the Rio Grande
silvery minnow will be reintroduced into its namesake river under a
provision of the Endangered Species Act that allows local communities
greater flexibility in establishing parameters for reintroduction.
Approximately 500,000 Rio Grande silvery minnows will be placed into the
river on Dec. 17. (Media – please note you are invited to cover the event.
Information follows news release.)
The release supports the agency’s plan to recover the rare minnow so that
it no longer needs the protection of the Endangered Species Act.
Reintroduced minnows in the Texas reach of the river will be considered
nonessential and experimental. The designation is allowed under section
10(j) of the ESA which encourages the reintroduction of a species by
reducing regulations. “Using a nonessential, experimental designation
ensures that the daily activities of water users and landowners are
unaffected by the reintroduction,” said Benjamin N. Tuggle, Southwest
Regional Director for the Service. “Community leaders told us they were
supportive of the reintroduction program but emphasized they needed to
count on reliable flows and water delivery. We can satisfy both fish and
human needs.”
The Rio Grande silvery minnow is a small fish that was once one of the most
abundant and widespread of the native fishes in the Rio Grande and Pecos
River. It existed from northern New Mexico to the Gulf of Mexico in Texas.
Today the endangered silvery minnow occupies only about five percent of its
historic range in the middle Rio Grande in New Mexico. Throughout much of
its historic range, the decline of the Rio Grande silvery minnow has been
attributed to modification of the flow regime, channel drying, reservoirs
and dams, stream channelization, decreasing water quality and perhaps
interactions with non-native fish. During it various life stages, the
silvery minnow uses low velocity habitats with a sandy and silty substrate
associated with a meandering river that includes side channels, oxbows, and
backwaters.
The Service’s preferred approach to recovering the Rio Grande silvery
minnow is to create self-sustaining populations in at least three areas of
its historic range. “The Big Bend reach has been identified as the area
within the species’ historic range most likely to support an additional
population,” said Tuggle. “It is our first priority area for
repopulation.”
The minnows will come from the City of Albuquerque’s RGSM Rearing and
Breeding Facility and the Service’s Dexter National Fish Hatchery and
Technology Center in New Mexico. The Center breeds and rears fish to
maximize genetic diversity and supplement wild populations.
Reintroductions will initially only take place on public lands. Private
lands may be included in the future but only with direct consent from the
land owner or manager.
The monitoring program will contribute to existing data and will use
statistically valid methods to assess changes in age-class structure and
abundance of Rio Grande silvery minnow and other fish. “After the initial
stocking, we will monitor to see how the fish is faring and look for any
spawning behavior or young-of-year fish that might be present,” said
Tuggle.
The Rio Grande from Little Box Canyon downstream of Ft. Quitman, Hudspeth
County, through Big Bend National Park and the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic
River, to Amistad and the Pecos River from its confluence with Independence
Creek to its confluence with the Rio Grande, has been designated as a
nonessential experimental population area. Although only portions contain
suitable habitat, this area represents the maximum geographic extent to
which the fish could move if released in the Big Bend stretch of the Rio
Grande. Rio Grande silvery minnow will only be released in the Rio Grande
and are not expected to move into the Pecos River.
The reintroduction project was first proposed in 2007. Today’s final rule
is available on the internet at www.fws.gov/southwest/es/AustinTexas. To
request a paper copy or a compact disc, please call 512-490-0057, or write
to Adam Zerrenner, Field Supervisor, Austin Ecological Services Field
Office, 10711 Burnet Road, Suite 200, Austin, Texas, 78758.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to
conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for
the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and
trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific
excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated
professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our
work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.
-FWS-
For more information about fish and wildlife conservation in the Southwest,
visit http://www.fws.gov/southwest/
Immunization Clinic
Immunization Clinic at Nolan Richardson Recreation Center
Health Care Support for Families
Who: Adults and Children
What: Immunization Clinic
When: Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Where: Nolan Richardson Recreation Center, 4435 Maxwell, 79904
Immunization Clinic
The City Parks and Recreation Department and the Nolan Richardson Recreation Center will have an Immunization Clinic conducted by the City of El Paso Public Health Department from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9th.
Please bring immunization record, birth certificate, and parent picture ID.
The cost is $10 for one immunization administered and $20 for two or more immunizations administered.
Cash, local checks, Medicaid, and CHIP are accepted. Services are not denied if unable to pay. Flu shots will be available for $25.
For more information, please call Honey Bueno at (915) 755-7566.
Health Care Support for Families
Who: Adults and Children
What: Immunization Clinic
When: Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Where: Nolan Richardson Recreation Center, 4435 Maxwell, 79904
Immunization Clinic
The City Parks and Recreation Department and the Nolan Richardson Recreation Center will have an Immunization Clinic conducted by the City of El Paso Public Health Department from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9th.
Please bring immunization record, birth certificate, and parent picture ID.
The cost is $10 for one immunization administered and $20 for two or more immunizations administered.
Cash, local checks, Medicaid, and CHIP are accepted. Services are not denied if unable to pay. Flu shots will be available for $25.
For more information, please call Honey Bueno at (915) 755-7566.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Educators, Commissioner of Education Meet to Discuss Safe Schools Issues
What: Safe Schools Forum sponsored by Texas AFT
Topics include...
Myths: “Zero Tolerance” and the “School-to-Prison Pipeline”
Just the Facts: What’s Actually Mandated in State Law, What’s Left to Local Discretion
Just the Facts: What the Data Really Show About Disciplinary Placements
Real Issues: Special Concerns Involving Students with Disabilities...And More!
When: Monday, December 8, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: J.W. Marriott Hotel, 5150 Westheimer, Houston, Texas
Who: Teachers and school employees, Commissioner of Education Robert Scott, invited
lawmakers, Texas AFT President Linda Bridges, Houston Federation of Teachers
President Gayle Fallon, business and community leaders, and members of Texas AFT
local affiliates from around the state.
Texas AFT (formerly the Texas Federation of Teachers) represents more than 59,000 teachers,
paraprofessionals, support personnel, and higher-education employees across the state.
Texas AFT is affiliated with the 1.4-million-member American Federation of Teachers.
Topics include...
Myths: “Zero Tolerance” and the “School-to-Prison Pipeline”
Just the Facts: What’s Actually Mandated in State Law, What’s Left to Local Discretion
Just the Facts: What the Data Really Show About Disciplinary Placements
Real Issues: Special Concerns Involving Students with Disabilities...And More!
When: Monday, December 8, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: J.W. Marriott Hotel, 5150 Westheimer, Houston, Texas
Who: Teachers and school employees, Commissioner of Education Robert Scott, invited
lawmakers, Texas AFT President Linda Bridges, Houston Federation of Teachers
President Gayle Fallon, business and community leaders, and members of Texas AFT
local affiliates from around the state.
Texas AFT (formerly the Texas Federation of Teachers) represents more than 59,000 teachers,
paraprofessionals, support personnel, and higher-education employees across the state.
Texas AFT is affiliated with the 1.4-million-member American Federation of Teachers.
LOCAL, STATE AND FEDERAL ELECTED OFFICIALS SEND LETTER TO PRESIDENT-ELECT BARACK OBAMA OPPOSING THE BORDER WALL
On Wednesday, December 3, 2008, El Paso State Senator Eliot Shapleigh, Congressman Silvestre Reyes, County Attorney Jose Rodriguez, and City Representative Steve Ortega, signed a joint letter addressed to President-elect Barack Obama opposing the construction of the Border Wall. The signing-in ceremony took place this afternoon at the Hotel Camino Real, as part of the two-day National Border Wall Summit that is currently taking place in El Paso. Other El Paso elected officials who couldn’t be present will also sign the letter.
In the letter, the elected officials request President-elect Barack Obama to stop the construction of the border wall and instead concentrate the efforts of his administration on achieving control of the border by adequately staffing the ports of entry, using state-of-the-art technology to detect border incursions, funding the construction of modern infrastructure along the border, and allocating sufficient resources to achieve effective enforcement.
The officials also state that it is fiscally irresponsible to spend 6.3 billion dollars “…on a wall that will not only scar our environmental landscape, but also damage our relationship with communities and countries across the Americas.”
The letter explains that sections of the border wall built in California have already begun to erode the Tijuana River Estuary, and another section of the wall in Arizona has caused severe flooding in Nogales.
The letter closes by asking President-elect Obama to “stop the muros de odio[walls of hate] on our southern border –let us stop building these ill-conceived walls founded in current notions of racism. As the next President of the United States, we hope you administration will lead the U.S. to once again be the beacon of hope to the world.”
A copy of the letter will also be delivered to Hillary Clinton, Secretary of State designee, Janet Napolitano, Secretary of Homeland Security designee, Bill Richardson, Secretary of Commerce designee, and John Podesta, Presidential Transition Team Co-Chair.
In the letter, the elected officials request President-elect Barack Obama to stop the construction of the border wall and instead concentrate the efforts of his administration on achieving control of the border by adequately staffing the ports of entry, using state-of-the-art technology to detect border incursions, funding the construction of modern infrastructure along the border, and allocating sufficient resources to achieve effective enforcement.
The officials also state that it is fiscally irresponsible to spend 6.3 billion dollars “…on a wall that will not only scar our environmental landscape, but also damage our relationship with communities and countries across the Americas.”
The letter explains that sections of the border wall built in California have already begun to erode the Tijuana River Estuary, and another section of the wall in Arizona has caused severe flooding in Nogales.
The letter closes by asking President-elect Obama to “stop the muros de odio[walls of hate] on our southern border –let us stop building these ill-conceived walls founded in current notions of racism. As the next President of the United States, we hope you administration will lead the U.S. to once again be the beacon of hope to the world.”
A copy of the letter will also be delivered to Hillary Clinton, Secretary of State designee, Janet Napolitano, Secretary of Homeland Security designee, Bill Richardson, Secretary of Commerce designee, and John Podesta, Presidential Transition Team Co-Chair.
Mayor’s Blood Donor Program
WHO: Mayor John Cook
WHAT: Will host a Blood Drive
WHEN: Friday, December 12, 2008
8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
WHERE: City Hall, 10th Floor Conference Room
2 Civic Center Plaza
WHY: We have another opportunity to make a significant contribution to the well-being of someone in our community. Please come and donate blood. Bring a picture ID card. You can choose a sign up time by visiting https://www.bloodhero.com/index.cfm?group=op&hlc=E1087 and type in E1087 under sponsor code. Every Donor will receive a free gift, as well as cookies, crackers, and juice as a light refreshment.
This is the gift that really does keep on giving!
Give blood. Be a hero.
Save a life.
WHAT: Will host a Blood Drive
WHEN: Friday, December 12, 2008
8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
WHERE: City Hall, 10th Floor Conference Room
2 Civic Center Plaza
WHY: We have another opportunity to make a significant contribution to the well-being of someone in our community. Please come and donate blood. Bring a picture ID card. You can choose a sign up time by visiting https://www.bloodhero.com/index.cfm?group=op&hlc=E1087 and type in E1087 under sponsor code. Every Donor will receive a free gift, as well as cookies, crackers, and juice as a light refreshment.
This is the gift that really does keep on giving!
Give blood. Be a hero.
Save a life.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
News - Condtion II fire at 2912 Moblie
NEWS RELEASE
December 3, 2008
This morning at approximately 0554 hours 7 units with the El Paso Fire Department responded to a structure fire on 2900 block of Mobile in central El Paso. First units on the scene reported heavy smoke and flames coming from a small rental unit behind the residence at this address and placed a condition II on the fire.
A lone male occupant and a pet dog had evacuated the residence prior to the arrival of the fire department. There were no reported injuries to firefighters or civilians. Investigators with the Fire Marshals Office also responded to the scene.
Investigators conducted an investigation and determined that the fire was intentionally set and ruled the fire as Arson. Total damages caused by the fire were estimated at over $7,000.00. The Red Cross also responded to assist the occupant.
The Fire Marshals Office is requesting the assistance of the public in this intentionally set fire. Anyone with information on this fire or any other arson fire is urged to call the Fire Marshals Office at 771-1090 or they can call Crime Stoppers at 566-8477 (TIPS).
Arson is a 2nd degree felony punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and/or up to a $10,000.00 fine.
December 3, 2008
This morning at approximately 0554 hours 7 units with the El Paso Fire Department responded to a structure fire on 2900 block of Mobile in central El Paso. First units on the scene reported heavy smoke and flames coming from a small rental unit behind the residence at this address and placed a condition II on the fire.
A lone male occupant and a pet dog had evacuated the residence prior to the arrival of the fire department. There were no reported injuries to firefighters or civilians. Investigators with the Fire Marshals Office also responded to the scene.
Investigators conducted an investigation and determined that the fire was intentionally set and ruled the fire as Arson. Total damages caused by the fire were estimated at over $7,000.00. The Red Cross also responded to assist the occupant.
The Fire Marshals Office is requesting the assistance of the public in this intentionally set fire. Anyone with information on this fire or any other arson fire is urged to call the Fire Marshals Office at 771-1090 or they can call Crime Stoppers at 566-8477 (TIPS).
Arson is a 2nd degree felony punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and/or up to a $10,000.00 fine.
All Armed Forces Bowling Tournament
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Don Diego Aguilar II
Fort Bliss Bowling Center
915.568.6272
On the Web: http://www.blissmwr.com/bowling/
All Armed Forces Bowling Tournament
WHO: Media and public is invited to the
WHAT: All Armed Forces Bowling Tournament
WHEN: Saturday, 6 December 2008 0830 Opening Ceremony 0900 Team Event - Team
Challenge (1st session)
Sunday, 7 December 2008 0900 Team Event - Doubles (2nd session)
Monday, 8 December 2008 0900 Team Event - Mixed Doubles (3rd session)
Tuesday, 9 December 2008 0900 Team Event - Singles (4th session)
1700 Awards Ceremony -Ft. Bliss Officer Club, Bldg 250, Club Road.
WHERE: Fort Bliss Morale, Welfare and Recreation's Bowling Center, Bldg
2949 Carter Rd.
BACKGROUND: The Fort Bliss Bowling Center will be hosting the 2009 Armed
Forces Championships. The finest bowlers representing the ARMY, NAVY, AIR
FORCE, AND MARINES will bowl here at the Fort Bliss Bowling Center 6 Dec,
2008 thru 9 Dec, 2008 at 0800. The competition will include team, doubles,
and individual play on TEAM USA Sport Bowling Patterns. Help us welcome the
bowlers during opening ceremonies 06 Dec @ 0800. The Armed Forces
Championship will not only crown a service champ but will also field an
Armed Forces Bowl ing Team comprised of the top overall men and women
competing in the tournament to represent the Armed Forces at the
2009 TEAM USA trials. This is a prestigious event in which one of our
service members could potentially represent the USA during TEAM USA
competition World Wide.
For more information, call 568-6272 or 568-6741 or visit www.blissmwr.com
for the latest information.
CONTACT: Don Diego Aguilar II
Fort Bliss Bowling Center
915.568.6272
On the Web: http://www.blissmwr.com/bowling/
All Armed Forces Bowling Tournament
WHO: Media and public is invited to the
WHAT: All Armed Forces Bowling Tournament
WHEN: Saturday, 6 December 2008 0830 Opening Ceremony 0900 Team Event - Team
Challenge (1st session)
Sunday, 7 December 2008 0900 Team Event - Doubles (2nd session)
Monday, 8 December 2008 0900 Team Event - Mixed Doubles (3rd session)
Tuesday, 9 December 2008 0900 Team Event - Singles (4th session)
1700 Awards Ceremony -Ft. Bliss Officer Club, Bldg 250, Club Road.
WHERE: Fort Bliss Morale, Welfare and Recreation's Bowling Center, Bldg
2949 Carter Rd.
BACKGROUND: The Fort Bliss Bowling Center will be hosting the 2009 Armed
Forces Championships. The finest bowlers representing the ARMY, NAVY, AIR
FORCE, AND MARINES will bowl here at the Fort Bliss Bowling Center 6 Dec,
2008 thru 9 Dec, 2008 at 0800. The competition will include team, doubles,
and individual play on TEAM USA Sport Bowling Patterns. Help us welcome the
bowlers during opening ceremonies 06 Dec @ 0800. The Armed Forces
Championship will not only crown a service champ but will also field an
Armed Forces Bowl ing Team comprised of the top overall men and women
competing in the tournament to represent the Armed Forces at the
2009 TEAM USA trials. This is a prestigious event in which one of our
service members could potentially represent the USA during TEAM USA
competition World Wide.
For more information, call 568-6272 or 568-6741 or visit www.blissmwr.com
for the latest information.
CIP Update, 2009 Debt Issuance
Engineering Department
PRESS RELEASE
Contact: Julie Baldwin-Muñoz at 541-4987 or 478-0401
Capital Improvement Program Update: 2009 Debt Issuance
December 2, 2008- On November 5, 2008, as part of a City Council Strategic Planning Session, the 2009 Debt Issuance for critical priorities was presented and approved. In continued support and response to this initiative, the City Council today approved the funding instrument.
Below is a summary of approved programs and funding under the new 2009 Debt Issuance:
Program
Funding Needs
Sun Metro Capital Projects
$ 21,608,956
Storm 2006 Capital Project Shortfall
Dallas Street Outfall
Govt. Hills Outfall/Durazno Neighborhood
$ 12,612,805
Transportation Capital Improvement Program
Funding for Planning and Design
$ 2,556,000
TxDOT
Funding Commitments
$ 7,420,000
Comprehensive Mobility Plan
$ 2,430,000
2% Public Art
* Sun Metro Capital Projects already include 2% calculations
$ 500,376
Sun Metro Equipment Needs
$ 16,000,000
Fleet Replacement
$ 10,000,000
Grand Total
$ 73,128,137
* For more information, please see the link to the complete presentation provided at the City Council Meeting
http://www.elpasotexas.gov/muni_clerk/agenda/12-02-08/12020814.pdf
PRESS RELEASE
Contact: Julie Baldwin-Muñoz at 541-4987 or 478-0401
Capital Improvement Program Update: 2009 Debt Issuance
December 2, 2008- On November 5, 2008, as part of a City Council Strategic Planning Session, the 2009 Debt Issuance for critical priorities was presented and approved. In continued support and response to this initiative, the City Council today approved the funding instrument.
Below is a summary of approved programs and funding under the new 2009 Debt Issuance:
Program
Funding Needs
Sun Metro Capital Projects
$ 21,608,956
Storm 2006 Capital Project Shortfall
Dallas Street Outfall
Govt. Hills Outfall/Durazno Neighborhood
$ 12,612,805
Transportation Capital Improvement Program
Funding for Planning and Design
$ 2,556,000
TxDOT
Funding Commitments
$ 7,420,000
Comprehensive Mobility Plan
$ 2,430,000
2% Public Art
* Sun Metro Capital Projects already include 2% calculations
$ 500,376
Sun Metro Equipment Needs
$ 16,000,000
Fleet Replacement
$ 10,000,000
Grand Total
$ 73,128,137
* For more information, please see the link to the complete presentation provided at the City Council Meeting
http://www.elpasotexas.gov/muni_clerk/agenda/12-02-08/12020814.pdf
The Rose & Crown Art Gallery
The Rose & Crown Art Gallery
3616 McRae Blvd (near Montana)
El Paso, TX 79925
915-633-8870
December 8th, 6 - 8 PM Opening reception of "WITH CHRISTMAS IN MIND"
An art extravaganza featuring small artworks from our gallery artists.
Live music from the "BORDER TOWN FOOLS". Refreshments will be served.
December 10th, 7 - 9 PM. "ACROSS THE AGES" - AN EVENING OF ENGLISH
RENAISSANCE AND BAROQUE MUSIC WITH SOPRANO ELLEN WILSON AND GUITARIST
ARMIN HARRISON. Music, Art and the flavors of an English Christmas.
Admission is free. Sponsored by El Paso MCAD and TCA.
Event Contact: Al Borrego, 633-8870
3616 McRae Blvd (near Montana)
El Paso, TX 79925
915-633-8870
December 8th, 6 - 8 PM Opening reception of "WITH CHRISTMAS IN MIND"
An art extravaganza featuring small artworks from our gallery artists.
Live music from the "BORDER TOWN FOOLS". Refreshments will be served.
December 10th, 7 - 9 PM. "ACROSS THE AGES" - AN EVENING OF ENGLISH
RENAISSANCE AND BAROQUE MUSIC WITH SOPRANO ELLEN WILSON AND GUITARIST
ARMIN HARRISON. Music, Art and the flavors of an English Christmas.
Admission is free. Sponsored by El Paso MCAD and TCA.
Event Contact: Al Borrego, 633-8870
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Dr. Lea Hutchinson Honored as Zoo Director Emeritus
Dr. Lea Hutchinson recognized as first-ever Director Emeritus of the El Paso Zoo
On December 2, 2008, the City of El Paso will recognize Lea Hutchinson, DVM as the first ever honored Director Emeritus of the El Paso Zoo. This honorary title is intended to recognize meritorious, outstanding, and dedicated service of a former director of an organization, and is common practice among universities, museums, and zoos. This title was bestowed on Dr. Hutchison on behalf of the Mayor of El Paso, with the approval and support of the City Manager, Deputy City Manager for Quality of Life, and the El Paso Zoological Society.
“I can think of no other person that will carry this honorary title with more dignity and grace than Dr. Lea Hutchinson,” said Steve Marshall, El Paso Zoo Director.
Dr. Hutchinson was recognized in a congratulatory letter by the popular animal expert, international celebrity and TV star Jack Hanna. “It is because of your dedication to conservation and so many other causes that you are now being recognized and honored with the great title of Director Emeritus” said Jack Hanna, who is Director Emeritus of the Columbus Zoo.
Only nine other AZA accredited Zoos (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) in the United States have awarded the esteemed title of Director Emeritus to a zoo director. These zoos include Lincoln Park in Chicago, the Bronx Zoo in New York, Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, and Zoo Atlanta in Georgia.
Dr. Lea Hutchison became the City’s Director of Veterinary Services in 1964. In 1965, he added on the duty of El Paso Zoo veterinarian. In 1988, he took on the responsibilities of Acting Zoo Director in addition to his position as Deputy Director at the City-County Health and Environmental District. Some of Dr. Hutchinson’s Zoo career achievements include establishing support facilities, managing the Asian Expansion, assisting with the design and oversight of construction on the African section including the acquisition of Dudley Field. From 2004-2006, Dr. Hutchinson stepped back into the position of Interim Zoo Director.
“His love of the Zoo, his commitment to animals of all types, and his leadership skills are clearly exhibited by his long career with the City in the many positions he has successfully held,” said Marshall. “He has served in a leadership position at the El Paso Zoo longer than any other single person in the Zoo’s modern history,” said Steve Marshall. “He is the perfect example of what a Director Emeritus stands for.”
Meeting - How to Form a Neighborhood Association
Do You Want To Improve Your Neighborhood?
Form A Neighborhood Association
The Neighborhood Services division of the City of El Paso’s Department of Community and Human Development, encourages El Paso residents to form a neighborhood Association if there is none currently formed in your neighborhood. The City of El Paso currently has 67 recognized neighborhood associations. These associations are the voice of their neighborhood and are aimed at improving the quality of life for the residents in their area.
Upcoming meetings will be hosted throughout the year to provide El Paso residents information on how to start a neighborhood association and to share the benefits of having a neighborhood association that is registered with the City.
A meeting is scheduled for:
Tuesday, December 2
6 pm – 7 pm
Northeast Regional Command Center
(9600 Dyer Street)
A neighborhood association is a group of neighbors who get together, share ideas and work cooperatively to make their neighborhood a better place to live. The purpose of a neighborhood association is to organize with their neighbors and other neighborhood stakeholders i.e. businesses, schools or churches in order to identify manageable and realistic improvements for the overall quality of life of the neighborhood. A neighborhood association should promote a range of activities to sustain a long-term existence within a neighborhood.
Annual fundraisers, block parties, clean-ups and holiday events can support an association’s focus on working together to promote a variety of improvements such as street repairs, speeding issues, removing blight, park improvements and street lighting. Neighborhood associations should not organize to promote only a single purpose – neighborhood associations that are narrow in scope are not likely to be effective in developing resources for long-term neighborhood improvements.
The Neighborhood Services division has a handy Neighborhood Association Guide full of valuable information on how to organize an effective Neighborhood Association. This Guide provides information such as: first steps, boundaries, bylaws, setting goals, recruiting members and volunteers, holding great meetings and so much more. To obtain a copy you can contact the Neighborhood Services division or download from the website at
http://www.elpasotexas.gov/commdev/_documents/Neighborhood%20Guide.pdf
The Neighborhood Services division will gladly assist you in the process. Hope to see you at the meeting.
Tuesday, December 2
6 pm – 7 pm
Northeast Regional Command Center
(9600 Dyer Street)
For general information, please contact Soraya Ayub, Neighborhood Relations Coordinator 541-4019.
For information on the seminar, contact Mark Weber 541-4932
2 Exhibits Open at Community Exhibit Space
Museums & Cultural Affairs
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
Contact: Noelle Nevarez, Public Affairs @ 541-4915 or 474-4773
2 Exhibits Open at Community Exhibit Space
(City Hall, first floor)
December 1, 2008 through January 2, 2009.
Panoramic Paintings in Photos of El Paso
By Fernando Villela
Main Lobby
Fernando F. Villela was born in Torreón, Coahuila, Mexico. He has been a resident of El Paso for over 50 years, graduating from Bowie High School in 1966, and obtaining his BFA from UTEP in 2004. A Vietnam Veteran and married to his high school sweetheart Rosa Blancarte, Villela has retired into art-making. A self-taught portrait painter in oils, Olvera loves all that is art. Olvera now takes pictures of El Paso to record it’s architecture, it’s culture and it’s people, and his passion is to share it with all the residents of El Paso. For additional information, please call 915-562-7531.
Huellas Digitales: Digital Abstract Photography
ByRuben Olvera
East Wall
Ruben Olvera was born in 1957 in El Paso Texas and was raised in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico. He currently resides and works in both sides of the Border. Olvera studied Economics, Architecture, Photography, Film-making, Engraving and Art History at the University of Texas at El Paso, Los Angeles Harbor College, the University of Texas at Arlington, and Fort Worth Community College. Since 1986 Olvera has held 15 individual exhibits, and 21 collaborative exhibits in Mexico, United States and Germany. He has produced and directed experimental videos. In 2003 he founded Olvera Gallery, an alternative space for Contemporary Art in El Paso, Texas. Olvera has also judged several local painting competitions, and his critiques have been published in various newspapers and magazines. For additional information, please call 915-346-1863 or visit www.rubenolvera.com.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
Contact: Noelle Nevarez, Public Affairs @ 541-4915 or 474-4773
2 Exhibits Open at Community Exhibit Space
(City Hall, first floor)
December 1, 2008 through January 2, 2009.
Panoramic Paintings in Photos of El Paso
By Fernando Villela
Main Lobby
Fernando F. Villela was born in Torreón, Coahuila, Mexico. He has been a resident of El Paso for over 50 years, graduating from Bowie High School in 1966, and obtaining his BFA from UTEP in 2004. A Vietnam Veteran and married to his high school sweetheart Rosa Blancarte, Villela has retired into art-making. A self-taught portrait painter in oils, Olvera loves all that is art. Olvera now takes pictures of El Paso to record it’s architecture, it’s culture and it’s people, and his passion is to share it with all the residents of El Paso. For additional information, please call 915-562-7531.
Huellas Digitales: Digital Abstract Photography
ByRuben Olvera
East Wall
Ruben Olvera was born in 1957 in El Paso Texas and was raised in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico. He currently resides and works in both sides of the Border. Olvera studied Economics, Architecture, Photography, Film-making, Engraving and Art History at the University of Texas at El Paso, Los Angeles Harbor College, the University of Texas at Arlington, and Fort Worth Community College. Since 1986 Olvera has held 15 individual exhibits, and 21 collaborative exhibits in Mexico, United States and Germany. He has produced and directed experimental videos. In 2003 he founded Olvera Gallery, an alternative space for Contemporary Art in El Paso, Texas. Olvera has also judged several local painting competitions, and his critiques have been published in various newspapers and magazines. For additional information, please call 915-346-1863 or visit www.rubenolvera.com.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Armijo Lap Pool Temporarily Closed
Will be re-opening soon
The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department has announced that the Armijo Aquatic Center Lap Pool, 911 S. Ochoa is closed as of 10:00 a.m. this morning due to water clarity problems.
“The chlorinator was not functioning properly so it was not feeding any chlorine to the pool,” according to Wright Stanton, Aquatics Manager for the Department.
Maintenance is working on the problem and the pool should be ready to open tonight if the water clears up.
For more information, please call Wright Stanton at (915) 544-5436.
The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department has announced that the Armijo Aquatic Center Lap Pool, 911 S. Ochoa is closed as of 10:00 a.m. this morning due to water clarity problems.
“The chlorinator was not functioning properly so it was not feeding any chlorine to the pool,” according to Wright Stanton, Aquatics Manager for the Department.
Maintenance is working on the problem and the pool should be ready to open tonight if the water clears up.
For more information, please call Wright Stanton at (915) 544-5436.
La Concha de La Tortuga CD Release Party
Press ReleaseContact: Nancy Green (915) 564-9218
La Concha de La Tortuga CD Release Party
December 20, 20008
El Paso Public Library
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
La Concha de La Tortuga is a mixture of original music, natural sounds, and bilingual spoken word that brings to life a short story about the migration of Mother Turtle. Award-winning writer Denise Chávez, visual artist and musician Corina Gabaldón, musician Kris J. Wroblewski, musician Nancy Green, musician/recording engineer, Ricardo Valencia, photographer, Daniel Zolinsky and graphic artist Ernesto Hernandez collaborated to create this artistic work with funding from the City of El Paso Museum and Cultural Affairs Department.
The El Paso Public Library will co-sponsor a CD release party on Saturday, December 20, 2008 from 1-4:00 p.m. that will include a live performance.
The CD features the voice of Denise Chávez as La Voz, child Julian Valencia, and the Inutero heartbeat of Kaisa Dulcinea Penny is heard. The CD highlights original music “Walking Through Time” by Green and “Here We Are,” by Gabaldón and Wroblewski. Ancient Wisdom, Gabaldón's original artwork, graces the CD cover and Zolinsky’s photo of women coming down from Tortugas Peak on December 11th, the day of the climb and pilgrimage is on the backside.
The idea for this project began in 2007 when musician Nancy Green was asked to facilitate a workshop on How Music Is Born for staff of the Parents as Teachers Program of the Las Cruces Public Schools under the direction of Corina Gabaldón as part of the Familia=Arte Program. After reading a passage from Diccionario Ritual de Voces Nahuas by Adela Fernandez. Workshop participants divided into small groups, wrote an original story about each of four instruments mentioned in the passage (turtle shell, ocarina, conch, and Teponaztle), and created music for their stories. What emerged from the Chávez and Gabaldón collaboration was a genesis myth of the Emergence of Mother Turtle from the Earth.
The City of El Paso Museum of Cultural Affairs Department awarded Green an Arts Development and Enrichment Program (ADEP) grant to create a soundtrack of the story. Chávez, Gabaldón and Green reworked the legend, then invited pianist Kris Wroblewski to join. After a period of revision and rehearsal, the CD was taped at Studio Azul, in El Paso under the direction of musician Ricardo Valencia.
The CDs are available directly from the artists and at the Cultural Center de Mesilla, 2231 Calle de Parian in Mesilla for $15. For more information contact
Denise Chávez at 575.523.3988 at bbf@zianet.com
Nancy Green 915.564.9218 nancygreen9@yahoo.com
Artist Bios
Novelist, short story writer, playwright, actress and educator
Denise Chávez has a B.A. in Drama from New Mexico State University (1971), an M.F.A. in Drama from Trinity University (1974), and an M.A. in Creative Writing from the University of New Mexico (1984). A novelist, short story writer, playwright, actress and teacher, Chávez considers herself a Performance Writer. She is currently finishing a novel, The King and Queen of Comezón, as well as a children’s book, My Mother is A Maid. She is the Director of the Border Book Festival and the Cultural Center de Mesilla, an arts resource center, literary, storytelling, workshop and performance venue and serves as the home of the annual Border Book Festival.
Writer, musician, educator
Corina Gabaldón is a singer/songwriter from Las Cruces, New Mexico. Corina received her Master’s degree in Education from New Mexico State University. For the past 30 years she has been involved in music, art, and the educational field, working in school districts in California, Texas and New Mexico. She is the Special Projects Coordinator with the Las Cruces Public Schools, coordinating the Even Start Family Literacy and Parents as Teachers Programs. She co-wrote, performed and recorded Voices Through the Ages, the theme for a radio series, Coming of Age in New Mexico. She performed and co-wrote the theme song, Together We Can Make It Happen, featured in the nationally distributed video on family violence, Every 15
Seconds. She collaborated with Alma Productions in the creation of music and song for the production of Color Me Creative, a bilingual performance in storytelling and song. Other original compositions include Nuestras Mujeres, performed at the opening for the photo exhibit of Nuestras Mujeres: Hispanas de Nuevo Mexico, the theme songs El Corrido Sin Fronteras, Leer Es Vivir, Disappeared Lives, Cosecha/Harvest, performed at the First, Second and Third
Annual Border Book Festivals, and a tribute song, Legacy of Power, at a reception to honor author Alice Walker.
Musician, writer and educator
Nancy Lorenza Green, M.Ed. is an Afro-Chicana performance and recording artist from El Paso, Texas who uses poetry, percussion instruments and flute music as mediums of communication and cultural expression. Nancy has recorded three cds: Music From the Heart, Life Is Sacred, and a Tumblewords poetry compilation. She was a visiting artist with the Ysleta Arts Alive Program and the Familia=Arte in Las Cruces, a coaching artist with VSA arts of Texas, and a presenter at the VSA International Conference in Washington, DC. As a consultant for the Division for Blind Services, Nancy facilitates art and music therapy sessions for a family support group of children with disabilities and their families. Nancy is currently a member of Expresión Creativa, an artist collective that delivers art workshops in schools, community centers and libraries with funding from MCAD’s Community Arts Program.
Musician and educator
Kristina Wroblewski is a lyricist/keyboardist from Evanston, Illinois. Kristina trained classically in piano and after making New Mexico her home, embraced the heartbeat of the drum in her musical career. She has since incorporated both instruments to
naturally blend the world of words with harmonies and rhythms of sound/space. Kristina has a M.ED. from National Lewis University (1972) with advanced licensure and degree work from New Mexico State University (1986). As an educator with elementary through university teaching assignments, she has been a proponent of arts
integration throughout her professional educational career.
Recording engineer and musician
Ricardo Valencia was born in Mexico City in 1970. He studied Music Theory and Classical Guitar in the Universidad Autónoma de Música from 1989 to 1992. In the spring of 92’ he moved to produce and record with the band ‘Raza Antigua’ to Geneva, Switzerland where he studied Flamenco with Sidharus Ghali. In 1995, Valencia moved back to Mexico City and toured as accompanying guitarist with artists like Eduardo Capetillo, Zarabanda, Ricky Luis, Leo Dan, and many others. In the summer of 96’ Valencia enrolled in the Music Theory and Composition degree at The University of Texas at El Paso and specialized in Electronic Music Production. Valencia added the minors of French, Jazz Guitar Performance and Classical Guitar performance to his studies. Studio Azul is the digital recording studio managed by Valencia. Located in El Paso, Valencia has won national prices for productions like ‘Walking the Choctaw Way’ by the Nation Librarians Association.
Photographer
Daniel Zolinsky was born in France and moved to the U.S. when he was ten years old. A professional photographer, Zolinsky’s most recent exhibit was in October 2008 in Valencia, Spain called Visiones de México.
"FOCAL SPLENDOR" a Collective Exhibition
"FOCAL SPLENDOR" a Collective Exhibition
December 6, 2008 - January 31, 2009
Opening Reception December 6th, 6-8pm in the presence of the Artists
at Cutter Aviation Terminal
1771 Shuttle Columbia Dr
El Paso International Airport
El Paso, Texas 79925
(915) 779-0270
Gallery Open 24hrs
Featuring the work of 10 Regional Artists including:
Maria Branch, A. Stein, Gabriel S. Gaytan, Melinda Etzold,
Jan Dreher, Maria Olvera, Jose Barron, Rosa Maria Burgos,
Warren Smart and Josefina Monson Giessinger.
Event Contact: Al Borrego - 915-594-8424
December 6, 2008 - January 31, 2009
Opening Reception December 6th, 6-8pm in the presence of the Artists
at Cutter Aviation Terminal
1771 Shuttle Columbia Dr
El Paso International Airport
El Paso, Texas 79925
(915) 779-0270
Gallery Open 24hrs
Featuring the work of 10 Regional Artists including:
Maria Branch, A. Stein, Gabriel S. Gaytan, Melinda Etzold,
Jan Dreher, Maria Olvera, Jose Barron, Rosa Maria Burgos,
Warren Smart and Josefina Monson Giessinger.
Event Contact: Al Borrego - 915-594-8424
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Thanksgiving Parade Route Schedule
NEWS RELEASE – For Immediate Release
Contact: Cynthia Grajeda, Marketing and Customer Relations Coordinator
915.534.5838 or 915.472.5949 (mobile)
November 25, 2008
Thanksgiving Parade Route Schedule
EL PASO, TEXAS – Sun Metro will detour inbound and outbound routes off of Montana St. and Five Points Terminal on Thursday, November 27, 2008 to accommodate for this year’s First Light Federal Credit Union Thanksgiving Sun Bowl Parade. The temporary detours will remain in effect from 6:00am until 4:00pm or until the parade has ended and the streets are clear.
Sun Metro personnel will be at Five Points Terminal and at Alternate Boarding Locations to assist passengers during the Thanksgiving Parade. Drivers will make courtesy stops as necessary on affected routes until buses return to their regular Sunday schedule.
# 32 Logan Heights via Piedras, # 41 Northgate via Piedras
Alternate Boarding Point
Routes 32, 41 will detour Five Points Terminal on inbound and outbound trips using an alternate boarding point located on the corner of Piedras and Grant. Service will not be provided to Raynor or Five Points Terminal (courtesy service will be provided from Five Points Terminal to temporary Raynor relocation.)
#35 Northgate via Dyer; #50 Montana; #55 Eastside Terminals
Alternate Boarding Point
Inbound Routes 35, 50, 55 will detour Five Points Terminal using an alternate boarding point located on Yandell between San Marcial and Raynor.
-MORE -
#25 Thomason Hospital, #30 Fort Bliss via Pleasonton, #33 Government Hill via Bassett Center, #35 Northgate via Dyer, #50 Montana, #55 Eastside Terminal
Alternate Boarding Point
Outbound Routes 25, 30, 33, 35, 50, and 55 will detour Five Points Terminal using an alternate boarding point located on Raynor between Yandell and Wyoming.
Route Changes
#30 Fort Bliss via Pleasonton, #33 Government Hill via Basset
Routes 30, 33 will detour Montana Ave. on outbound trip using Yandell, Gateway North, Trowbridge, and Pershing;
On inbound trip using Pershing, Trowbridge, Gateway South, Yandell, San Marcial, Wyoming and Raynor.
#25 Thomason Hospital/Cielo Vista
Route 25 will detour Montana Ave. on outbound trip using Tularosa and Piedras;
On inbound trip using Raynor.
#35 Northgate via Dyer
Route 35 will detour Montana Ave. on outbound trip using Franklin, Campbell, Wyoming, Raynor, Yandell, Gateway North, Trowbridge, Douglas, Copia to regular route;
On inbound trip route 35 will detour Montana Ave. using Copia, Hueco, Gateway South, Yandell, Virginia, Missouri, Santa Fe to regular route.
#50 Montana
Route 50 will detour Montana Ave. on outbound trip using Franklin, Campbell, Wyoming, Raynor, Yandell, Gateway North, Montana, to regular route;
On inbound trip route 50 will detour Montana Ave. using Gateway South, Yandell, Virginia, Missouri, Santa Fe to regular route.
#55 Eastside Terminal
Route 55 will detour Montana Ave. on outbound trip using Raynor, Wyoming, Yandell and Gateway North;
On inbound trip will detour Montana using Gateway South, Yandell, and Piedras.
-###-
CITY COUNCIL
JOHN COOK ANN MORGAN LILLY, DISTRICT 1
MAYOR SUSANNAH M. BYRD, DISTRICT 2
EMMA ACOSTA, DISTRICT 3
JOYCE WILSON MELINA CASTRO, DISTRICT 4
CITY MANAGER RACHEL QUINTANA, DISTRICT 5
EDDIE HOLGUIN, JR., DISTRICT 6
STEVE ORTEGA, DISTRICT 7
TIM OMICK BETO O’ROURKE, DISTRICT 8
DIRECTOR
SUN METRO
700-A SAN FRANCISCO • EL PASO, TEXAS 79901 • 915.533.1220 • 915.534.5816 FAX • WWW.ELPASOTEXAS.GOV
Contact: Cynthia Grajeda, Marketing and Customer Relations Coordinator
915.534.5838 or 915.472.5949 (mobile)
November 25, 2008
Thanksgiving Parade Route Schedule
EL PASO, TEXAS – Sun Metro will detour inbound and outbound routes off of Montana St. and Five Points Terminal on Thursday, November 27, 2008 to accommodate for this year’s First Light Federal Credit Union Thanksgiving Sun Bowl Parade. The temporary detours will remain in effect from 6:00am until 4:00pm or until the parade has ended and the streets are clear.
Sun Metro personnel will be at Five Points Terminal and at Alternate Boarding Locations to assist passengers during the Thanksgiving Parade. Drivers will make courtesy stops as necessary on affected routes until buses return to their regular Sunday schedule.
# 32 Logan Heights via Piedras, # 41 Northgate via Piedras
Alternate Boarding Point
Routes 32, 41 will detour Five Points Terminal on inbound and outbound trips using an alternate boarding point located on the corner of Piedras and Grant. Service will not be provided to Raynor or Five Points Terminal (courtesy service will be provided from Five Points Terminal to temporary Raynor relocation.)
#35 Northgate via Dyer; #50 Montana; #55 Eastside Terminals
Alternate Boarding Point
Inbound Routes 35, 50, 55 will detour Five Points Terminal using an alternate boarding point located on Yandell between San Marcial and Raynor.
-MORE -
#25 Thomason Hospital, #30 Fort Bliss via Pleasonton, #33 Government Hill via Bassett Center, #35 Northgate via Dyer, #50 Montana, #55 Eastside Terminal
Alternate Boarding Point
Outbound Routes 25, 30, 33, 35, 50, and 55 will detour Five Points Terminal using an alternate boarding point located on Raynor between Yandell and Wyoming.
Route Changes
#30 Fort Bliss via Pleasonton, #33 Government Hill via Basset
Routes 30, 33 will detour Montana Ave. on outbound trip using Yandell, Gateway North, Trowbridge, and Pershing;
On inbound trip using Pershing, Trowbridge, Gateway South, Yandell, San Marcial, Wyoming and Raynor.
#25 Thomason Hospital/Cielo Vista
Route 25 will detour Montana Ave. on outbound trip using Tularosa and Piedras;
On inbound trip using Raynor.
#35 Northgate via Dyer
Route 35 will detour Montana Ave. on outbound trip using Franklin, Campbell, Wyoming, Raynor, Yandell, Gateway North, Trowbridge, Douglas, Copia to regular route;
On inbound trip route 35 will detour Montana Ave. using Copia, Hueco, Gateway South, Yandell, Virginia, Missouri, Santa Fe to regular route.
#50 Montana
Route 50 will detour Montana Ave. on outbound trip using Franklin, Campbell, Wyoming, Raynor, Yandell, Gateway North, Montana, to regular route;
On inbound trip route 50 will detour Montana Ave. using Gateway South, Yandell, Virginia, Missouri, Santa Fe to regular route.
#55 Eastside Terminal
Route 55 will detour Montana Ave. on outbound trip using Raynor, Wyoming, Yandell and Gateway North;
On inbound trip will detour Montana using Gateway South, Yandell, and Piedras.
-###-
CITY COUNCIL
JOHN COOK ANN MORGAN LILLY, DISTRICT 1
MAYOR SUSANNAH M. BYRD, DISTRICT 2
EMMA ACOSTA, DISTRICT 3
JOYCE WILSON MELINA CASTRO, DISTRICT 4
CITY MANAGER RACHEL QUINTANA, DISTRICT 5
EDDIE HOLGUIN, JR., DISTRICT 6
STEVE ORTEGA, DISTRICT 7
TIM OMICK BETO O’ROURKE, DISTRICT 8
DIRECTOR
SUN METRO
700-A SAN FRANCISCO • EL PASO, TEXAS 79901 • 915.533.1220 • 915.534.5816 FAX • WWW.ELPASOTEXAS.GOV
2009 El Paso Firefighter Calendar
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Unveiling of the 2009 El Paso Heroes Firefighter Combat Challenge Calendar
El Paso, Texas NOVEMBER 25, 2008— The El Paso Firefighter Combat Challenge Team is comprised of career paid El Paso Firefighters who compete on a world stage annually in a series of grueling events which are designed to showcase the strength, fitness and overall heart needed in this time honored service. Qualifying in nine consecutive seasons for the World Championships, your El Paso team consistently competes with and ranks among the top 10 best fire Departments in the WORLD! As a member of the team, demanding physical prowess is only a portion of the responsibilities. Throughout the year the team attends and volunteers countless hours working with The Muscular Dystrophy Association, Sierra Providence, The Race for the Cure, and the Miracle League. Because of the big expense of traveling for these events, this elite team has decided to conduct a fundraiser with the very first El Paso Heroes “Firefighter combat Challenge Calendar 2009”. The firefighters featured on the calendar will be on hand to fan romantic and patriotic flames for party goers at the calendar's official debut on Thursday, December 4, at The Three Legged Monkey (1550 Hawkins Blvd) from 11am-2am. Party goers will get a first-hand look at the sexy heroes as well as autographed Calendars. The glossy, full-color calendar sells for $10 (a great stocking stuffer) and features spectacular photos of firefighters from the elite combat challenge team in various dramatic scenes. (Although we can't guarantee that you'll see a shirtless firefighter come to your next rescue.) The Owner of The Three Legged Monkey has agreed to sell a special food plate that patrons can purchase. All proceeds from the sale of this special dish will be given to the Elite Team. The Press Conference will begin at 7pm with the unveiling of the Calendar and Live Music from the band “Paper Street” will follow.
Contact: Carlos Mendoza
Cell: 915.626.8822
Email:Carlos@epalivemedia.com
Unveiling of the 2009 El Paso Heroes Firefighter Combat Challenge Calendar
El Paso, Texas NOVEMBER 25, 2008— The El Paso Firefighter Combat Challenge Team is comprised of career paid El Paso Firefighters who compete on a world stage annually in a series of grueling events which are designed to showcase the strength, fitness and overall heart needed in this time honored service. Qualifying in nine consecutive seasons for the World Championships, your El Paso team consistently competes with and ranks among the top 10 best fire Departments in the WORLD! As a member of the team, demanding physical prowess is only a portion of the responsibilities. Throughout the year the team attends and volunteers countless hours working with The Muscular Dystrophy Association, Sierra Providence, The Race for the Cure, and the Miracle League. Because of the big expense of traveling for these events, this elite team has decided to conduct a fundraiser with the very first El Paso Heroes “Firefighter combat Challenge Calendar 2009”. The firefighters featured on the calendar will be on hand to fan romantic and patriotic flames for party goers at the calendar's official debut on Thursday, December 4, at The Three Legged Monkey (1550 Hawkins Blvd) from 11am-2am. Party goers will get a first-hand look at the sexy heroes as well as autographed Calendars. The glossy, full-color calendar sells for $10 (a great stocking stuffer) and features spectacular photos of firefighters from the elite combat challenge team in various dramatic scenes. (Although we can't guarantee that you'll see a shirtless firefighter come to your next rescue.) The Owner of The Three Legged Monkey has agreed to sell a special food plate that patrons can purchase. All proceeds from the sale of this special dish will be given to the Elite Team. The Press Conference will begin at 7pm with the unveiling of the Calendar and Live Music from the band “Paper Street” will follow.
Contact: Carlos Mendoza
Cell: 915.626.8822
Email:Carlos@epalivemedia.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)