El Paso, Texas, November 22, 2024 – The Greater El Paso Football Showcase (GEPFS), presented by Charlie Clark Nissan Infinity, BSN Sports, Walmart, EPCC, Tint World, and Casas de Leon, will host the All-Star Draft Night Saturday, November 23, 2024, 5:00pm at the El Paso Community College Administrative Services Center Auditorium. Media is invited to attend.

All-Star players will be selected to the Red Storm, coached by Mike Pry (Coronado High School) or Blue Thunder, coached by Rudy Contreras (Del Valle High School). The draft will also feature Cheerleaders and Trainers drafted to their respective teams.

Merchandise and tickets will be on sale at the draft. DJ will be on hand, plus Prep 1 and El Paso Sports Network’s Media Row. The 32nd GEPFS All-Star Football Game will take place Saturday, December 21, 2024, 1:00pm at SAC II.

What: GEPFS All-Star Draft Night
Where: El Paso Community College Administrative Services Center Auditorium, Building A, 9050 Viscount, El Paso, TX 79925.
When: Saturday, November 23, 2024, 5:00pm-7pm
Who: Local high school football Seniors previously selected to the 32nd All-Star Game. Free and open to the public.

Information: GEPFS Co-Director Beau Bagley (310) 941-5529
Information: https://gepfs.org/

Photos courtesy: Prep1.

2023 Greater El Paso Football Draft Selection with Sponsors

2023 Greater El Paso Football Draft

AUSTIN – When you head out to the Black Friday sales with your credit card, remember to tap to pay or use a trusted payment app on a mobile phone when possible, instead of inserting your card into the payment pad or swiping the card to pay.

The Texas Financial Crimes Intelligence Center (FCIC) and the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) have additional advice for avoiding credit card skimmers at the gas pump and at other payment devices, and they’ve gathered it into a PSA on the TDLR YouTube channel:

Most skimmers have been placed deep inside the gas pump cabinet and it won’t be obvious that something’s wrong, but there are still some things consumers can check for before using a credit card at a gas station:

• Look at the gas pump and cabinet – do they look damaged, or look like they’ve been tampered with?

At gas stations and other stores:

• Wiggle the card slot – is it loose?
• Look at the keypad – is it loose or does it look like something has been placed on top of it?
• Additional ways consumers can protect themselves:

Always use a credit card, not a debit card, if you’re not going to pay cash – this protects the PIN and prevents access to a bank account
Set card usage or transaction alerts for bank and credit card accounts. Most major banks offer apps that allow real-time monitoring of accounts.

Regularly monitor credit card and bank statements for fraudulent charges or suspicious transactions
The FCIC, which coordinates law enforcement investigations into organized financial fraud, was the first statewide unit of its kind in the United States and operates as a partnership between TDLR and the Smith County District Attorney’s Office. TDLR regulates motor fuel metering and quality and collects consumer complaints and merchant reports related to credit card skimmers. The Smith County DA aggressively investigates and prosecutes criminals engaging in organized financial crimes such as fraud related to gasoline pump skimmers.

About TDLR

TDLR provides regulatory oversight for a broad range of occupations, businesses, facilities, and equipment in Texas. The agency protects the health and safety of Texans by ensuring they are served by qualified, licensed professionals. Inspections of individuals, businesses, and equipment are done on a regular basis to safeguard the public. Currently, the agency regulates 38 business and occupational licensing programs with almost 1,000,000 licensees across the state.

Visit TDLR’s website for more information and resources. You can search the TDLR licensee database, and also find past violations in which a final order was issued against companies or individuals. TDLR’s Customer Service line is available anytime between 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at 1-800-803-9202. TDLR representatives are fluent in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.

El Paso, Texas, November 18, 2024 – Adversity might be what has motivated El Paso Community College (EPCC) student Daniel Dominguez to overcome the many challenges he has faced. Maybe it was being diagnosed with a learning disability when he was young, maybe it was the bullying, obesity, or maybe it was the death of his older brother.

Whatever it was, 19-year-old Daniel Dominguez used it as motivation to earn the Top Crown at the Mister Teen Universe International Pageant in the Teen Category, last week, in Panama.

At a young age, Daniel was placed in special education after being diagnosed with a delayed speech impairment and a delayed learning incapacity. Daniel grew to a 229-pound Defensive Lineman for the Americas High School football team, but tired of the bullying throughout his school years, he asked to be taken off the special education designation. “I struggled throughout school but with the help of wonderful teachers, therapists, and other staff, I was able to graduate like a normal student,” Daniel said.

But life was not without more challenges. Before his senior year, his older brother, Juan Carlos Dominguez Jr, died due to alcohol abuse and obesity. “I saw the heartache my parents went through and decided to make the best decision in my life,” Daniel added. “Within 3 months, I went down to 167 pounds. No one could believe the transformation I made.”

The sudden weight loss also meant less playing time on the football team, but with that new physique came new opportunities. Daniel was invited to participate in a modeling competition and won El Paso’s Top Model by Lijuro Productions. From there, his modeling passion grew, and in November 2023 won the award for the Audi of El Paso Male Top Model.

When he turned 18, his father told him “I am going to give you a birthday gift that could be a gift every day,” Daniel said. “I was expecting something nice, and he gives me this 600-page book on how to become a Personal Trainer, and I became the youngest International Sports Sciences Association Personal Trainer with Specialization in Nutrition, Body Building and Strength and Conditioning.”

“My father taught me that life will put obstacles before you, but you put the limits and don’t let anyone tell you that you cannot accomplish something productive in your life.”

“Being proud of you son is one of the greatest feelings I can have as a father,” Juan Carlos Dominguez Sr., Daniel’s Father, said. “Overcoming many obstacles to be the best of you.”

As a Nursing student at EPCC, Daniel has attended Fashion Week in Los Angeles, and works as a personal trainer. He just competed and won the Mister Teen Universe International Pageant in Panama, and plans more international pageants February 5-8, 2025, in Paraguay, and following that, he will travel to compete in Puerto Rico. Daniel enjoys charity work and hopes to assist the elderly and fight obesity when he graduates from EPCC.

“As I prepare to showcase my talent, dedication, and hard work on the esteemed stage of the competition, I don’t forget where I was and where I am. I had to face tragedy to realize that I needed to change my lifestyle and care for my health. Now everything is possible, and I have always believed in the power of determination and perseverance.”

Photos, courtesy: Dominguez Family

Daniel Winning at Mr Teen Universe in Panama

Daniel with the Teen Universe Crown

Daniel Dominguez Posing During a Competition

Updated work requirements will impact certain SNAP customers in 2025
Able-bodied adults without dependents ages 18-54 in designated areas will need to meet federal work guidelines

SANTA FE — Beginning Jan. 1, 2025, a new work requirement will take effect for some Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) customers throughout New Mexico. Those directly impacted will receive a mailed notice from the Health Care Authority (HCA) starting November 12.

“We understand that this change may be significant for some of our SNAP customers and we are committed to supporting each individual through this process,” said Niki Kozlowski, director of Income Support Division. “We are working with our federal partners to ensure that all eligible New Mexicans have access to the food benefits they need.”

These work requirements are a federal requirement which apply to people who are between the ages of 18-54, are physically able to work, do not have any dependents (such as children or other individuals they care for), live in one of the designated areas (see below), and do not qualify for any other exception. There are certain exceptions which exempt an individual from having to comply with Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWD) work requirements, visit the FAQ page for more information.

The ABAWD work requirement changes will apply to SNAP customers who currently reside in Bernalillo, Santa Fe, Eddy and Los Alamos counties. Additionally, this change will apply to those living in the following pueblos: San Ildefonso, Pojoaque, Santa Clara and Laguna.

Current SNAP customers who fall under these criteria must meet specific work requirements to receive food benefits for more than three months. To continue receiving benefits, they must:

• Work a total of 80 hours per month. Work can be for pay, in trade for something other than money, or as a volunteer
• Participate and comply with a work program for a total of 80 hours per month. A work program could be the state’s SNAP Employment and Training which provides several services, including job search training, work experience, work activity/work-based learning, pre-apprenticeships, apprenticeships, internships, and on the job training
• Any other educational or training activities
• Any combination of work and work program hours for a total of 80 hours per month

ABAWD SNAP customers should confirm that they are exempt from ABAWD work requirements by contacting the Health Care Authority by:

• Reporting the exception online at YES.NM.GOV.
• Calling the HCA Consolidated Customer Service Center at 1-800-283-4465,?7:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
• Visiting an HCA Income Support Division Office.

El Paso Community College (EPCC) will not hold classes or offer services on Monday, November 11th, 2024 in observance of Veterans Day. Online registration is available on Self Service Banner.

Classes and services will resume on Tuesday, November 12th, 2024.

New Mexico residents who serve or have served in the armed forces can visit each of the NM Department of Cultural Affairs’ museums and historic sites free of charge this Veterans Day weekend.

What: Any New Mexico resident providing satisfactory proof of current or past armed service will be admitted free to each of NMDCA’s 16 museums and historic sites on Veterans Day weekend, Saturday November 9, Sunday Nov. 10, and Monday Nov. 11, 2024. This includes spouses and children. Check with each museum and site as many are normally closed on Mondays.

Additionally, New Mexico Museum of Space History and New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum extend this program to cover all veterans and active military, regardless of New Mexico residency.

Where: The list of museums and historic sites that will be offering free admission are as follows:
• Bosque Redondo Memorial at Fort Sumner Historic Site in Fort Sumner

• Coronado Historic Site in Bernalillo

• Fort Selden in Radium Springs

• Fort Stanton in Fort Stanton

• Jemez Historic Site in Jemez Springs

• Lincoln Historic Site in Lincoln

• Los Luceros Historic Site in Alcalde

• Museum of Indian Arts & Culture in Santa Fe

• Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe

• National Hispanic Cultural Center in Albuquerque

• New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum in Las Cruces

• New Mexico History Museum in Santa Fe

• New Mexico Museum of Art in Santa Fe

• New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science in Albuquerque

• New Mexico Museum of Space History in Alamogordo

• Taylor Mesilla Historic Site Visitor Center in Mesilla (full site opening Fall 2025)

When: This program takes place during regular hours of operation at each museum and historic site on Nov. 9, 10, and 11, 2024. For more information on hours of operation, head to https://www.newmexicoculture.org/visit.

Why: On a day that honors those who protect our state and our country from enemies foreign and domestic, NMDCA is proud to offer free admission to all New Mexicans who serve or have served.

https://wallethub.com/edu/best-and-worst-cities-for-veterans/8156

Lung cancer under-estimated in damage and death it brings
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month

SANTA FE –?Lung Cancer has long been a killer in New Mexico, the United States and worldwide. People often underestimate the toll it takes on human lives. November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the impact of the disease – and the resources available to screen and treat it.

The New Mexico Department of Health’s (NMDOH) Cancer Prevention and Control Section and Nicotine Use Prevention and Control (NUPAC) program offer treatment advice and resources that help save lives.

“As someone who lost his father to lung cancer, I feel personally the need to encourage everyone to take the steps necessary to take care of their health,” said NMDOH Secretary Pat Allen. “Not just for themselves, but for the people that matter to them as much as life itself.”

Nicotine use – including smoking and vaping – is the leading risk factor for lung cancer and is responsible for 80% of lung cancer deaths. But 20% of people who have never used nicotine die of lung cancer too.

Although New Mexico has one of the lowest incidence rates of lung cancer in the United States, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in the state, with a mortality rate of 21.3 per 100,000 residents, based on data from 2018-2022.

NMDOH recommends seeing a physician if you have any symptoms of lung cancer. These symptoms – as per the Lung Cancer Research Foundation – are all about how you BREATHE:

•Blood when you cough or spit.
•Recurring respiratory infections.
•Enduring cough that is new or different.
•Aches or pains in the shoulder, back or chest.
•Trouble breathing.
•Hoarseness or wheezing.
•Exhaustion, weakness or loss of appetite.

Even with no symptoms, you should be screened if:

• You are between 50 and 80 years of age AND…
•…you smoked at least one pack a day for 20 years.
•You currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years.

Reduce your risk of lung cancer. The NMDOH Nicotine Use Prevention and Control (NUPAC) program offers several ways to help cut nicotine out of your life, including calling 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669) for English or 1-855-DEJELO YA (1-855-335-3569) for Spanish, to receive free coaching, nicotine patches or gums. There is also a free web-based service at DejeloYaNM.com that offers additional online support including 24-hour text message support.

For teens, Live Vape Free is a text-based program with one-on-one coaching, live text support, and interactive content to help them quit e-cigarettes. To register, teens can text VAPEFREE to 873373.

Radon is also a non-nicotine related way to get lung cancer. Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can be found in homes. If you live in an area with high levels of radon, consider having your house tested for radon exposure and, if needed, take steps to reduce radon levels. More information is available at epa.gov/radon.

El Paso, Texas – October 2024 — Get ready for a spook-tacular and free event as Charlie Clark Nissan presents its highly anticipated Halloween Costume Contest on Wednesday, October 30th at 5 PM! This family-friendly event is open to all ages, so gather your best costumes, arrive early, and join in on the Halloween fun!

As usual, the categories are kids 12 and under, adults 13 and up and this year a category for dogs as also been added for a chance to win a $250 Woof Basket packed full of goodies for the scariest dog costume.!

Event Highlights:

•Date & Time: Wednesday, October 30th, 5 PM
•Location: Charlie Clark Nissan, El Paso, TX
•Address: 6451 S. Desert Blvd El Paso, TX 79932

Categories:

– Ages 12 & under & 13 and up – 1st Place – $500 cash, 2nd – $300 Cash, 3rd – $200 Cash
– Scariest Pooch – Woof Basket of Goodies!

Special Guest: Come meet Charlie Clark plus Univision cast live!

Admission: Free to participate!

Arrive Early! This event promises lots of Halloween excitement, prizes, and a chance to meet local personalities. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to showcase your best costume and enjoy a festive evening with the community.

Charlie Clark shared his excitement about the event, saying, “I’m always happy to host this event and continue to give back to the community!”

About Charlie Clark Nissan Charlie Clark Nissan is proud to serve the El Paso community, offering quality vehicles and a commitment to exceptional customer service. We strive to bring the community together through fun, inclusive events that celebrate our city’s vibrant culture.

Come in costume, bring the family, and join us for a memorable, free Halloween event!

AUSTIN – From November 1-22, the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is hosting the 13th annual Hiring Red, White & You! event series. This statewide event connects employers with veterans, transitioning military members, and military spouses.

“Texas is home to 1.5 million veterans whose skills and experience are crucial contributors to the state’s economic success,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “TWC’s veterans’ programs, including Hiring Red, White & You!, provide Texas veterans with resources designed to enhance their success in the Texas workforce.”

During this year’s event, TWC and Texas Workforce Solutions will host more than 30 events across the state in partnership with the Office of Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Veterans Commission, and the Texas Medical Center. Since 2012, these free hiring events have connected more than 24,000 employers with 137,000 job seekers, including 47,000 veterans. Hiring Red, White and You! events have also resulted in more than 3,400 same-day hires.

“Hiring, Red, White & You! provides support and resources available to help our veterans obtain a high-demand career in our strong labor force and thriving Texas economy,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “Over the past 12 years, this event has helped thousands of veterans and military spouses find meaningful employment, and TWC is committed to continuing that work.”

Employers can participate in Hiring Red, White and You! at no cost and are encouraged to contact their local Workforce Solutions Office for more information. Employers who hire veterans may be eligible for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, which allows up to $9,600 in federal business income or payroll tax benefits. Through the WeHireVets initiative, TWC recognizes businesses in which veterans make up at least 10% of the workforce.

“Our veterans bring employers value through the extensive training, leadership, and a unique work ethic gained in service to our country,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Joe Esparza. “I’m proud to be among a growing population of our veteran workforce and I encourage Texas employers to participate in Hiring Red, White & You! events to open doors and opportunities for veterans and their families.”

Employers can find additional information on Hiring Red, White & You! events at twc.texas.gov/hrwy. For information on all veteran workforce services available in Texas, visit https://www.twc.texas.gov/services/veterans.

Who said Halloween is just for kids?

El Paso Adult Protective Services (APS) will host the 2nd annual “Trunk or Treat” Halloween Carnival for local seniors from 9am-12noon on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at the downtown State Office Building front parking lot located 401 E. Franklin, El Paso, TX 79901.

Last year, nearly 200 seniors from various Adult Day Care Centers attended, enjoying a fun morning of spooky games, Halloween costume contests and of course trick or treating for candy!

The event also aims to raise public awareness of elder abuse prevention. Last year in El Paso County, APS investigated the situations of 3,371 people who were living at home and found 2,231 of them suffered one or more forms of abuse, neglect or exploitation. Learn more about how to recognize adult abuse, neglect and exploitation at ProtectTexasAdults.com.

El Paso County Offers Free Pesticide to Residents to Eradicate Red Flour Beetle

Commissioners Court Authorizes $25,000 in Monetary Support for Pesticide

EL PASO, TX—On Monday, October 21, the El Paso County Commissioners Court approved $25,000 to assist residences and businesses affected by the Red Flour Beetle infestation with pesticide recommended by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. The funds were requested through the American Rescue Plan Act due to the gravity of the infestation in the Lower Valley and other rural parts of the County.

The pesticides will be distributed at the Ysleta Annex, located at 9521 Socorro Rd, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday. This over-the-counter pesticide will come with instructions for use which MUST be followed. Only one pesticide per person will be distributed.

Pecan shells are often used as ground cover in the Lower Valley area which is exacerbating the situation since they are an excellent source of food for the beetles. El Paso Water will begin transporting pecan shells from Lower Valley properties to the County landfill on Monday, October 28th. As a result, residents may experience a temporary surge of beetles during this time and are encouraged to take precautions to prepare for the surge.

El Paso County is working with the City of Socorro to coordinate this endeavor and bring a safe and effective resolution to residents as soon as possible.

“The commissioners allocated those funds to help purchase pesticides that can then be distributed to the residents of primarily the city of Socorro, but they’re also going to be available to other county residents who are experiencing an infestation of red flour beetles in their homes,” said Pct 3 County Commissioner Iliana Holguin.

www.ilianaholguin.com

Protect yourself and your family from lead poisoning
October 20-26 is National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week

SANTA FE –?Exposure to lead can result in serious illness and could require immediate medical attention. Lead exposure in children can cause behavioral and learning problems, hearing loss, and at very high levels, seizures, coma and death. High lead levels can cause high blood pressure, reproductive problems, kidney damage, hearing loss and neurological problems.

Lead exposure can be prevented, and awareness of the possible sources can help protect your family.

“This week is a great time to ensure that your home and surroundings do not pose a risk of lead exposure,” said Dr. Miranda Durham, Chief Medical Officer for the New Mexico Department of Health (NMHealth). “Children under six are particularly vulnerable to lead exposure and it can lead to serious health consequences.”

Lead exposure is a serious concern, especially in homes built before 1978 when lead-based paints were common. In New Mexico, where 45% of housing units were built before 1980, the likelihood of lead paint being present is higher. Lead exposure can also come from older water pipes, soil and dust. Renovation, repair, or painting activities can disturb lead paint, releasing lead particles into the air or onto surfaces, posing a significant health risk, particularly for young children who are more vulnerable to its toxic effects. In 2023, 534 New Mexican children were found to have elevated blood lead level.

Lead may also be found in drinking water if there are lead pipes, faucets or fixtures. Old, vintage, used and imported products might contain high levels of lead. Avoid using chipped or cracked lead-crystal, lead-glazed pottery or lead-porcelain cookware with food preparation or storage. Wash hands regularly, especially before eating and sleeping and wash toys often.

Children enrolled in Medicaid are required to be tested at 12 and 24 months old and are also required to get tested if they are ages 24–72 months and have no record of ever being tested. Contact your child’s healthcare provider about a blood lead test. If you have questions about possible sources of lead in your home, please contact the NMHealth’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program through our Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (833-796-8773).

You can visit the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention webpage for more information and the FDA’s website to stay updated on children’s products recalled due to lead hazards.