Good morning, El Paso.

El Paso Electric donated $5,000 worth of winter blankets to families in Sparks and Agua Dulce communities on Wednesday.

Volunteers handed out the blankets at Sparks Park and Agua Dulce Park to help residents stay warm this winter.

DNA evidence linked skeletal remains found next to I-90 in Minnesota 10 years ago + confirmed they belonged to Luis Gilberto Robledo, an El Paso World War II veteran who fought in Normandy.

Investigators have contacted his family.

El Paso celebrates holiday traditions as the 31st annual Navidad de La Fe Luminarias will brighten Scenic Drive with 4,000 luminarias Saturday, Dec.

20 and the Museums and Cultural Affairs Department hosts an Arts District Posada today at the Mexican American Cultural Center—events that invite families to enjoy festive activities.

Billboard Magazine recognized the Plaza Theatre as the top Texas venue for spaces of 2,500 or less and ranked it 22nd worldwide on Dec.

17. The venue hosted 75 shows that grossed $6 million and drew 97,600 attendees this year.

Energy bills across the nation are predicted to rise nearly 8% this winter, but El Paso Electric reports that most homes here use natural gas—keeping costs lower compared to national trends.

The utility advises customers to insulate, seal windows, and adjust thermostats to save energy if bills increase.

Iker Torres, a 12-year-old Magoffin Middle School student known for his harp skills, is now benefiting from a community fundraiser led by teacher Francisco Renteria to purchase his own instrument & boost his musical practice.

Socorro ISD is launching a voluntary resignation program offering a $2,500 buyout to up to 50 employees (teachers, librarians, and support staff) with sign-ups closing April 6 next year and aiming to stabilize finances after years of budget challenges.

Dr. Brian Lusk was named EPISD’s new superintendent with a base salary of $360,000; he took on the role several months after his predecessor retired.

Lusk, who previously served in Dallas, begins a new chapter for local schools.

The Texas Comptroller’s office is urging El Paso County residents to claim $185.3M in unclaimed property, including forgotten bank accounts (and uncashed checks) as the holiday season nears.

Residents can use the free online search or call the Unclaimed Property Division for help.

An audit of the El Paso Zoo reviewed ticket sales and events (FY 2024-2025) and found profits exceeding ($170,000) on most events but a $4,500 loss on one event.

The zoo is working with its City Attorney and has filled a coordinator role to improve invoice and sponsorship procedures.

The Pellicano Drive widening project has restarted with Hawk Construction after delays from a contractor bankruptcy.

Officials say the road will be finished by Sept. 30 next year after additional $6 million funding was approved for phase one and residents will get regular updates.

A 64-year-old East El Paso woman lost teeth in a fall and seeks help through the Senior Fund to afford dental work needed to eat; the Rio Grande Area Agency on Aging and Paso del Norte Community Foundation accept donations online or mailed to 221 N.

Kansas St. (help seniors).

A newly renovated affordable housing community opened today near the Shops of Solana, featuring 144 apartments as part of a $24 million investment.

The project — funded by investors and low income housing tax credits — took 10 years to complete.

UP AND RUNNING Jingle Bell 5K Run/Walk

8:30-9:30 a.m. — Up & Running, El Paso, TX — Registration fees apply — Lace up for a festive 5K run/walk filled with holiday cheer.

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet

3-7:30 p.m. — The Plaza Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a delightful holiday classic with the magical performance of The Nutcracker.

Candlelight: Tribute to Juan Gabriel

6:30 p.m. — El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical tribute to Juan Gabriel in a stunning candlelit setting.