Good morning, El Paso.

El Paso County is moving ahead with a $46.4 million renovation of Ascarate Park that will improve the lake, expand pickleball courts and add better accessibility.

The project meets community needs and regulatory standards.

Three new eateries are now open in Northeast El Paso: Heavenly Pizza opened on Aug.

11 at 5254 Rushing Road (recruiting crew) and serves pizzas and pizzarolas; 7Brew Coffee began drive-thru service in June at 9061 Dyer St; and a McDonald’s started in March at 8500 Dyer St.

A mysterious burgundy mural has appeared near Cafe Central in Downtown El Paso — featuring prowling felines that hint at the upcoming restaurant Anomalia.

Officials have yet to confirm details on its opening.

Downtown events this week feature extended museum hours during Third Thursdays on Aug.

20 in the Downtown Arts District, while the El Fresco Music Series wraps up its summer season with a Country Spotlight showcase at Convention Center Plaza on Aug. 21.

El Paso Chamber hosted its annual State of Education & Workforce address on Wednesday in downtown, where local school superintendents outlined new career and technical education programs and business leaders previewed partnerships to boost job readiness — a move aimed at expanding student opportunities.

El Paso Community College got $285,000 from Gov. Greg Abbott’s Open Educational Resource grant to support free learning materials for nursing and workforce training programs + the funds, part of a $2 million package for nine Texas colleges, were announced Aug.

17.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott proposed that districts must spend at least 70% of funds on classroom expenses to cut administrative bloat and improve student outcomes.

Speaking in El Paso, he cited audits and enrollment declines in local districts as proof that it’s time to refocus spending.

El Paso and Las Cruces are featured as charming, affordable getaways in a new list by The Points Guy — the travel site highlights the border culture, free art museums, and outdoor views that offer fresh experiences for travelers.

El Paso high school volleyball scores from Aug.

18 — 22, 2026 show local teams in action; Montwood defeated Americas while Las Cruces, Ysleta and Coronado posted wins with standout kills and digs. Officials have released detailed scores and player stats.

El Dorado football players practiced early Tuesday, Aug.

18 at El Dorado High School in Far East El Paso for the upcoming season.

UTEP football is banking on injured returnees Cash Cheeks, Kam Thomas, Garrett Hawkins, Judah Ezinwa and Jaden Smith to spark a turnaround after finishing 2-10 last season.

The team plans to build on its recovery in future games.

UTEP’s veteran linebacker duo Wilson and Hawkins—nicknamed the Bash Brothers—lead the Miners defense as they prepare to face No. 10 Oklahoma on Sept.

4, with Wilson emerging as a key leader and Hawkins returning after a torn ACL.