El Paso, Texas, March 26, 2025 – El Paso Community College (EPCC) Criminal Justice Department hosted the third annual Criminal Justice Career Expo, not just for EPCC students, but for the entire community, at the Valle Verde campus Flexitorium.

The career exposition featured over 20 offices and departments in the Criminal Justice field, like the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF), El Paso County and the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Offices, the El Paso Fire Department, the United States Secret Service, The United States Federal Probation Office, among many others. Also featured were criminal justice departments from the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), New Mexico State University (NMSU), and Park University. The Expo also featured many EPCC departments, like Fire Technology, Lambda Alpha Epsilon, the EPCC Criminal Justice Club, and the Law Enforcement Training Academy.

“Whether students are preparing to graduate and move directly into the workforce or continuing their education at a university, the expo allows students a great opportunity to visit with federal, state, and local criminal justice agencies as well as universities within our region,” EPCC Criminal Justice Professor Jeffrey Brockhoff said.

Many on hand learned about job opportunities in the Federal, State, and Local criminal justice fields, and educational opportunities in various criminal justice administrations.

“It’s a very good event, it’s good for students to learn in advance what is ahead of them, to start preparing themselves for the future, and find a career,” El Paso Police Department Officer Recruiter Carlos Arellano said. “EPCC students from the Law Enforcement Training Academy have done a great job joining our ranks, so we’re happy to be here.”

The expo was coordinated by the EPCC Criminal Justice department, and assisted by Career and Transfer Services, a group who loves to put their best foot forward when showcasing EPCC. “We love bringing events that encourage our students to further their careers, and this is a great way for the College to work with many different agencies and companies,” Career and Transfer Services Specialist Gabriel Hernandez said.

EPCC plans to hold another Criminal Justice Career Expo on April 11, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – Noon at the Paseo del Norte Hotel in downtown El Paso, featuring Law Enforcement agencies, Court Reporters, Legal Interpreters, Probation Officers, Bailiffs, and more.

For more information on the Criminal Justice Department, please visit:
https://www.epcc.edu/Academics/CriminalJustice

Photos courtesy: EPCC

EPCC student Dominik Edward, right, gets information about careers at the El Paso Police Department from officer Carlos Arellano during a Criminal Justice Expo Wednesday at the Valle Verde campus Flexitorium

James Arbogast, left, of the EPCC Law Enforcement Training Academy gives information to EPCC student Nancy Vasquez Wednesday

A variety of local, regional, state and federal Law Enforcement agencies were on site to provide information on career opportunities during a Criminal Justice Expo at the Valle Verde campus Flexitorium

EPCC criminal justice student Alek Duran stops at the U.S. Secret Service table at the Criminal Justice Expo Wednesday at the Valle Verde campus Flexitorium.

El Paso, Texas, March 24, 2025 – On the heels of a successful Criminal Justice Symposium featuring El Paso County Sheriff Oscar Ugarte, among other high-profile leaders in the Criminal Justice system, El Paso Community College (EPCC) will host a Criminal Justice Career Expo at the EPCC Valle Verde campus on Wednesday, March 26, 2025.

The Career Expo will feature job opportunities from Federal, State, and Local Criminal Justice Agencies, Educational Opportunities in various criminal justice fields, and Lambda Alpha Epsilon, the EPCC Criminal Justice Club. 25 vendors will be on hand, from the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office to the Otero Country Prison Facility to US Customs and Border Protection.

TxDOT campaign reinforces state laws to combat rising trend in pedestrian and cyclist deaths

AUSTIN – On his 10th birthday in 2020, Victor Peterzen received a brand-new bicycle. Just three months later, his life was tragically cut short in a crash while riding his bike through his northwest Houston neighborhood.

Sadly, similar tragedies continue to plague our state. In 2023, 914 bicyclists and pedestrians died in traffic crashes in Texas. It’s part of a rising trend in recent years as pedestrian deaths went up 22% and bicyclist fatalities increased 58% from 2019–2023.

Nearly five years after his death, Peterzen’s family is working with TxDOT’s “Be Safe. Drive Smart” campaign this spring to remind Texans to follow traffic laws and share the road safely with people walking and biking.

“Pedestrians and cyclists are among our most at-risk road users, and too many of them are killed or injured in our communities each year,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “If everyone looks out for each other and follows the rules of the road, we can help prevent these terrible crashes.”

TxDOT’s campaign aims to raise awareness among all Texans—drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike—of the shared responsibility to help everyone get where they’re going safely. To support this goal, the “Be Safe. Drive Smart” campaign is sending teams of “walking billboards” around the state to share vital safety messages in crash-prone areas.

Know the rules. Save a life.

If you’re driving:

• Stop and yield for pedestrians, bicyclists and other vulnerable road users in crosswalks.
• Give bikes space and pass at a safe distance.
• Yield when turning and always check for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Follow the speed limit and adjust for conditions.

If you’re walking:

• Use crosswalks and obey traffic signals.

• Stick to sidewalks, but if none exist, walk facing traffic on the left side unless it is obstructed or unsafe.

If you’re biking:

• Follow traffic laws and stop at red lights and stop signs.
• Ride in the same direction as traffic and use bike lanes or ride as near as possible to the right-hand curb.
• Use hand signals for turns or stops.
• Equip your bike with lights at night, using a white light on the front and a red light or reflector on the back.

“Be Safe. Drive Smart” is an important part of TxDOT’s Drive like a Texan: Kind. Courteous. Safe. initiative. Drive like a Texan is about embracing the pride, camaraderie, and responsibility of being a Texan on the road. By making thoughtful choices, we can all help keep each other safe. Learn more at DriveLikeATexan.com.

The information contained in this report represents reportable data collected from the Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report (CR-3). This information was received and processed by the department as of November 12, 2024. To view additionaltraffic safety data, visit TxDOT’s Traffic Safety Data Portal online.

BEDFORD, Texas (March 17, 2025) – Celebrate the first day of spring in the sweetest way possible with Free Cone Day at participating DQ restaurants in Texas on Thursday, March 20. DQ fans can enjoy a free small vanilla cone – limit one per person while supplies last. Not valid on delivery or mobile orders.

Add DQ to the first-day-of-spring plans and enjoy the classic sweet vanilla cone that is a fan favorite in the Lone Star state. Embrace the season – smell the flowers, dig out the spring wardrobe, and let those winter blues melt away with the classic DQ treat.

“Texans love spring and what better way to celebrate than with a free DQ vanilla cone,” said Lou Romanus, CEO of Texas Dairy Queen Operators Council. “We are extending a friendly Texas thank you to all of our DQ fans across the state for making Dairy Queen a part of their life.”

During March, DQ lovers can also indulge in the Mint Oreo® Blizzard® Treat. Savor delicious cookie pieces blended with creamy soft serve and finished with a cool mint topping, ensuring a flavorful punch with each bite.

While enjoying Free Cone Day, fans can also satisfy their cravings with a Hungr-Buster®, Steak Finger Country Basket®, Chicken Strip Country Basket® or the Texas T-Brand Tacos®.

For 78 years, DQ restaurants in Texas have been friendly, gathering spots where fans enjoy delicious treats and eats and create fond memories.

To be the first to learn about Blizzard of the Month flavors, new product news from the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council or find a store location, follow us on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook or visit dqtexas.com.

About Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council
There are few brands as iconic as the DQ brand. Innovative DQ treats and eats, along with the unique DQ restaurant concepts, have positioned DQ restaurants in Texas as a leader in the quick service restaurant industry. The Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council is a nonprofit organization made up of DQ franchisees operating in Texas. The Council develops the advertising and marketing program for DQ franchisees in Texas and controls the Texas Country Foods menu along with managing supply/distribution for the DQ restaurants in Texas. The DQ restaurants in Texas are franchised by American Dairy Queen Corporation and the DQ franchise system includes approximately 7,000 franchised locations in the United States, Canada, and more than 20 other countries.

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND, THE CAROLINA REAPER TACO BRINGS THE HEAT FOR A LIMITED TIME AT DQ RESTAURANTS IN TEXAS

EL PASO, Texas (March 11, 2025) – Texans, get ready to feel the heat. Back by popular demand, the Carolina Reaper Taco® returns to DQ® restaurants in Texas from March 17 to April 27 – bringing the fire for a limited time. The Carolina Reaper Taco is so hot, it can only be found in Texas, while supplies last at participating DQ restaurants in Texas.

Each taco starts with a crispy corn shell filled with Carolina Reaper-infused Monterey Jack cheese, seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes. The zesty tacos are topped off with a cool cilantro lime crema sauce to complete the legendary flavor of the Carolina Reaper Taco.

The bold flavors on a Texas classic delivers a one-two punch of fiery heat and mouthwatering flavor. With the intense heat of the Texas sun combined with the searing electric energy of a lightning storm over the Great Plains, the Carolina Reaper Taco® delivers a powerful punch.

Dare to take on the heat? Try the Carolina Reaper Taco before it disappears – and then cool things down with your favorite Blizzard® Treat, classic shake, or the iconic Dilly® Bar.

Fans can always enjoy the classic Texas T-Brand Tacos® throughout the year – beloved for their perfect balance of seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and shredded cheese, all wrapped in a crunchy corn shell. A go-to favorite for Texans, these legendary tacos have been satisfying cravings for generations.

For more than 75 years, DQ restaurants in Texas have been friendly, gathering spots where fans enjoy delicious treats and eats and create fond memories. To be the first to learn about Blizzard of the Month flavors, new product news from the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council or find a store location, follow us on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook or visit dqtexas.com.

About Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council 

There are few brands as iconic as the DQ brand. Innovative DQ treats and eats, along with the unique DQ restaurant concepts, have positioned DQ restaurants in Texas as a leader in the quick service restaurant industry. The Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council is a nonprofit organization made up of DQ franchisees operating in Texas. The Council develops the advertising and marketing program for DQ franchisees in Texas and controls the Texas Country Foods menu along with managing supply/distribution for the DQ restaurants in Texas. The DQ restaurants in Texas are franchised by American Dairy Queen Corporation and the DQ franchise system includes approximately 7,000 franchised locations in the United States, Canada, and more than 20 other countries.

Measles cases rise to 33

Cases include one new case in Eddy County 

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) reports the case count for measles has risen to 33, including a new case in Eddy County, the first outside of Lea County.

Most of the cases involve unvaccinated residents. State health officials say this is not a rapidly expanding outbreak, but a situation where cases have been occurring steadily over time. To date, one of the cases has required hospitalization.

“Any measles diagnosis is a concern, and we are watching every case closely,” said Dr. Miranda Durham, NMDOH Chief Medical Officer. “We are heartened by the number of New Mexicans getting vaccinated in response to this outbreak.”

Since Feb. 1, nearly 9,000 New Mexicans have received the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine – as compared to 5,342 MMR vaccinations in the same time period last year.

NMDOH will hold a free vaccination clinic from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, March 13 at our Carlsbad Public Health Office at 1306 W. Stevens St. in Eddy County, which borders Lea County to the west.

Measles is extremely contagious: a person with measles can infect others from four days before rash onset through four days after the rash appears. 

In enclosed spaces, the virus can stay in the air for two hours after an infected person has left. Symptoms start with a cough, runny nose, and eye redness, and then progress to fever and rash. The rash starts on the head and spreads down the body.

If you’re experiencing fever and rash, contact your doctor or emergency department first to tell them you are worried about measles so they can plan for your visit. You can also call the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773). The Helpline is staffed by nurses who can provide guidance in English and Spanish related to measles and vaccination questions.

Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from a measles infection. One dose of vaccine is 93% effective, and two doses are 97% effective. The measles vaccine provides lifetime protection.

For more information visit our website http://measles.doh.nm.gov/.

El Paso area youth who have run away from home or are experiencing homelessness can access a safe place to stay: the Youth Emergency Shelter at El Paso Center for Children.

The Center operates the only youth Runaway and Homeless Emergency Temporary Shelter in West Texas for youth ages 11-17. The shelter is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provides basic needs, such as hot meals and showers–as well as counseling and support–in a warm, all-inclusive environment.

All services at the shelter are free of charge.

“Youth come to our shelter for many reasons,” said Beatriz Marin-Olivarez, Youth Outreach and Housing Division Director. “They may have conflict a home, are living in the streets, feeling unsafe, unwelcomed, or they were a victim of a crime.

The shelter also offers clothing and personal care items, and access to a washer/dryer, phone, computer and email. The shelter’s staff is trained to provide crisis intervention, counseling, mediation with safe family members and support with education, job readiness, and street survival and safety tips.

“We hope everyone knows that the Youth Emergency Shelter is open, available, and free,” Beatriz said.

“This shelter can make all the difference at a very pivotal time in a young person’s life. They are why we are here.”

……………………

At a glance:

• El Paso Center for Children’s Youth Emergency Shelter: 3710 Altura Ave., Building D, El Paso, TX 79930
• 915-330-9513 or epccinc.org
• Free of Charge
• Open to all youth 11-17 years of age
• Dedicated, trained, and supportive staff
• Basic needs: meals, showers, clothing
• Access to washer/dryer and personal care items
• Access to phone, computer, and email
• Access to counseling and mediation with safe family members
• Help with critical needs, such as identification, health care, and Social Security
• Education and job readiness support
• Street survival and safety tips

About El Paso Center for Center: The Center began as an orphanage in 1919 and continues to be a source of support and shelter for thousands of runaway, homeless, and exploited youth. Services are all free, all the time, to include Individual/family Counseling, Counseling for Victims of Crime, Parent Cafés, Parenting and Youth Life Skills, Early Childhood Services, Outreach and Housing (ages 18-24), and the area’s first and only Drop-in Center specializing in serving youth who are at risk of and/or experiencing commercial sexual exploitation/human trafficking.

Parents must be current on child support to get hunting and fishing licenses

SANTA FE – New Mexico parents who are behind on child support payments could be denied hunting or fishing licenses under the state’s Parental Responsibility Act.

“We want parents to enjoy the hunting and fishing adventures New Mexico has to offer,” said Betina Gonzales McCracken, director of HCA’s Child Support Services Division. “If you are behind in paying child support, reach out to us. We can help you get caught up or assist you with finding a job to start meeting your commitment and get your license.”

Each month, the child support program provides a certified list of parents who are behind on child support to 63 state agencies that issue licenses. Parents who want to avoid delays in getting a hunting or fishing license can contact the Child Support Services Division by visiting YES.NM.GOV or calling 800-283-4465.

Once a parent is up to date with child support payments, they will need to pay a $25 reinstatement fee, which can be paid through their Game and Fish customer account or by calling 1-888-248-6866.

“Spending time outdoors can be a great way to connect with your children,” said Michael Sloane, director of the Department of Game and Fish. “Don’t miss out on a potential once-in-a-lifetime hunting or fishing trip because you aren’t up to date on your child support.”

For unemployed parents, the program offers STEPUp!, a collaborative effort with the Department of Workforce Solutions to help parents with job opportunities and training so they can make consistent monthly payments. In 2024, the program helped 710 parents find jobs and get back on track with their child support payments.

This year, the child support program is celebrating 50 years of serving families across the state. The program currently has 50,000 active child support cases and collected $119.2 million in 2024, with 98 percent of funds going directly to families.

###

We talk, interpret and smile in all languages.  We provide written information to our customers in both English and Spanish and interpretation services are available in 58 languages through our provider, CTS Language Link. For our hearing, and speech impaired customers, we utilize Relay New Mexico, a free 24-hour service that ensures equal communication access via the telephone to individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind or speech disabled.

DQ RESTAURANTS IN TEXAS CELEBRATE TEXAS INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH A

$2 HUNGR-BUSTER EXCLUSIVE APP OFFER

BEDFORD, Texas (February 26, 2025) – Texas Independence Day marks the adoption of the Texas Declaration of Independence on March 2, 1836, marking the birth of the Republic of Texas. This historic day calls for a true Texas-sized celebration, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than with the ultimate Texas burger on Sunday, March 2 offering a $2 Hungr-Buster® in an exclusive DQ® App deal at participating DQ restaurants in Texas.

“Texans are quite proud of their heritage and we are celebrating Texas Independence Day with our iconic Texas-sized burger,” said Lou Romanus, CEO of the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council. “DQ restaurants in Texas have been a part of Texas communities for generations, and this exclusive $2 DQ app offer on March 2 is our way of thanking our fans for their loyalty and Texas-sized spirit.”

The Hungr-Buster is a quarter pound grilled patty topped with crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, purple onion, tangy pickles and bold yellow mustard.

Download the DQ App today for access to deals, online ordering and points-based rewards.

For 78 years, DQ restaurants in Texas have been a cherished part of Texas communities. Since the first Texas location opened in 1947, DQ restaurants in Texas have set the standard for becoming a beloved neighborhood gathering spots where fans enjoy delicious treats and eats. Generations of Texans have enjoyed countless burgers, baskets, and Blizzard® Treats, making the DQ brand a true Lone Star tradition.

Wrangle the crew together, slip on the cowboy boots, and take advantage of the $2 Hungr-Buster® deal. In addition to this exclusive app-only offer, fans also can try other Texas favorites including The Steak Finger Country Basket®, Texas T-Brand Tacos®, or a Dilly® Bar.

To be the first to learn about Blizzard of the Month flavors, new product news from the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council or find a store location, follow us on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook or visit dqtexas.com.

About Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council
There are few brands as iconic as the DQ brand. Innovative DQ treats and eats, along with the unique DQ restaurant concepts, have positioned DQ restaurants in Texas as a leader in the quick service restaurant industry. The Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council is a nonprofit organization made up of DQ franchisees operating in Texas. The Council develops the advertising and marketing program for DQ franchisees in Texas and controls the Texas Country Foods menu along with managing supply/distribution for all DQ restaurants in Texas. The DQ restaurants in Texas are franchised by American Dairy Queen Corporation and the DQ franchise system includes approximately 7,000 franchised locations in the United States, Canada, and more than 20 other countries.

THE CLASSIC MINT OREO BLIZZARD TREAT IS COMING BACK TO DQ RESTAURANTS IN TEXAS JUST IN TIME FOR ST. PATRICK’S DAY 

BEDFORD, Texas (February 20, 2025) – Join the green wave across Texas as the Mint OREO® Blizzard® Treat makes its debut on February 24 and is only available at participating DQ restaurants in Texas through March 31. You can kiss those winter blues goodbye and say hello to St. Patrick’s Day with this irresistible Blizzard Treat.

The Mint OREO® Blizzard® Treat includes cookie pieces with a cool mint topping and DQ’s world-famous creamy soft serve. This refreshing treat is guaranteed to pack a flavorful punch with each bite. Invite a friend or take a solo trip to experience the crunchy, chocolatey, minty, creamy collaboration.

“Our fans love the Blizzard Treat classics and they are in luck with this month’s Blizzard of the Month,” said Lou Romanus, CEO of the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council. “The Mint OREO Blizzard Treat comes at the perfect time to kick off the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and ease right into spring break across Texas.”

Stop by your nearest DQ restaurant in Texas today to try this delicious Blizzard Treat before it’s gone. Pair the Mint OREO® Blizzard Treat with one of the classic favorites including a Hungr-Buster, the Chicken Strip Country Basket®, Beltbuster® or The Dude® Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich.

For 78 years, DQ restaurants in Texas have been friendly, gathering spots where fans enjoy delicious treats and eats and create fond memories. To be the first to learn about Blizzard of the Month flavors, new product news from the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council or find a store location, follow us on Instagram, Twitteror Facebook or visit dqtexas.com.

About Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council 
There are few brands as iconic as the DQ brand. Innovative DQ treats and eats, along with the unique DQ restaurant concepts, have positioned DQ restaurants in Texas as a leader in the quick service restaurant industry. The Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council is a nonprofit organization made up of DQ franchisees operating in Texas. The Council develops the advertising and marketing program for DQ franchisees in Texas and controls the Texas Country Foods menu along with managing supply/distribution for the DQ restaurants in Texas. The DQ restaurants in Texas are franchised by American Dairy Queen Corporation and the DQ franchise system includes approximately 7,000 franchised locations in the United States, Canada, and more than 20 other countries.

Applications for Border Artist Residency extended to February 28

The Border Art Residency, a project of the El Paso Community Foundation that is seeking a new resident artist for Spring/Summer 2025 has extended the deadline to apply! The deadline to applyis now February 28, 2025.

The Border Art Residency provides the selected artist a living/studio space in El Paso, Texas for a period of time to cultivate their creativity. Resident artists are provided with a fully furnished living/working space, a monthly stipend, and paid utilities.

The next open residency period is from April 15 to October 15, 2025. Applications will now be accepted until February 28, and the selected artist will be notified by March 15, 2025.

Through a partnership with Philosophic Systems Institute (PSI), visiting artists will be able to share their art and stimulate dialogue with the El Paso community through a variety of programs and projects. The resident will be able to choose which program or programs they engage with as they connect and learn more about the El Paso borderland.

Selection of the artist is made by a panel of nationally recognized artists and arts professionals. Because the selection committee members are far-removed from each other, we request that the application be submitted digitally via email. Photos of artwork should be 300 DPI JPEGS and sent with the email application.

Apply at: BorderArtResidency.com

Please share with your network of artists and interested parties. You can learn more about Catherine Söderberg Esper, artist Resident for Spring/Summer of 2024, here.

The Border Art Residency, established in 1997, is a project of El Paso Community Foundation that enables artists to pursue their craft without the worry of immediate sales or an outside job to pay for housing expenses. Artists selected for the program are able to achieve a greater degree of personal growth by concentrating on individual goals. They also share progress with local students, educators and the public. The Residency offers a living/studio space in the heart of the El Paso, Texas historic Five Points neighborhood.

To donate, please visit: epcf.org/bar and for more information, please call (915) 533-4020 or visit: BorderArtResidency.com.

Fall in Love with Local, Buy El Paso’s Valentine’s Day Promotion is Here!

Shoppers encouraged to buy local for their loved ones for an opportunity to score some cash and take home a Buy El Paso limited edition t-shirt.

EL PASO, Texas – Buy El Paso is celebrating love with its annual Valentine’s Day promotion which features over 30 local participating businesses. The promotion, which will run through February 14th, encourages El Pasoans to shop at any of the businesses featured as part of the promotion for a chance to take home Buy El Paso limited edition swag and earn $20 when they use the code “LOVEEP” in the Buy El Paso Rewards powered by Open Rewards app. This year, Buy El Paso will give away free limited-edition t-shirts and exclusive stadium bags.

Participating local businesses have created one-of-a-kind offers and experiences to make this Valentine’s Day extra special. Whether you’re looking for a thoughtful gift, a memorable date night or a unique treat, there’s something for everyone. To find participating businesses, visit https://www.buyep.org/valentines-day/ and start shopping.

Customers can also earn a little love for their wallets by using Buy El Paso Rewards powered by Open Rewards app to apply rewards towards purchases at eligible businesses around El Paso.

This ongoing program is designed to strengthen customer loyalty by offering 5% back for shopping locally. Shoppers will also have the opportunity to apply even more earnings toward their Valentine’s Day shopping with an exclusive offer through Open Rewards for new users – earn an extra $20.00 when they enter the code “LOVEEP” in the app. This offer is only valid for consumers who have not previously claimed a voucher through the Open Rewards app. Consumers can download the Open Rewards app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to start earning today.

“We are elated to offer this valuable and rewarding opportunity for local businesses and their customers to connect in celebration of love and community,” said Elizabeth Terrazas, President of the Better Business Bureau El Paso. “This Valentine’s Day promotion not only helps businesses attract new customers, but it also builds lasting relationships with the loyal supporters who make our local economy thrive.”

Buy El Paso is committed to the growth and sustainability of El Paso’s small businesses, providing resources and opportunities for entrepreneurs to thrive. When you Buy El Paso this Valentine’s Day, you’ll show your ??for locally-owned businesses in the community.

About Buy El Paso
Buy El Paso is an initiative created in September 2020 in partnership with the City of El Paso, and Better Business Bureau El Paso to promote El Paso businesses. Buy El Paso features local businesses throughout the City and hosts monthly giveaways, promotions, and events to encourage consumers to shop local. Buy El Paso Rewards empowers local business owners with tools to understand their market.

About Better Business Bureau El Paso
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) El Paso is a nonprofit organization committed to advancing marketplace trust. They provide a platform for businesses and consumers to build trust, encourage ethical business practices, and address marketplace issues in the El Paso area. BBB El Paso is dedicated to fostering a fair and competitive business environment.

First New Mexico measles case of 2025 confirmed in Lea County 

No known exposure to ongoing Texas outbreak 

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) is alerting Lea County residents of the days, times and locations where they may have been exposed to a person with measles.

The NMDOH Scientific Laboratory has confirmed a measles infection of an unvaccinated Lea County teenager. NMDOH is working with the patient’s family, Nor-Lea Hospital and the local school district to assure all contacts are up to date with their measles vaccinations. Two doses of measles vaccine are 97% effective against disease.

Anyone who visited the following locations during these given days and times may have been exposed to measles:

• 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9, Nor-Lea Hospital Emergency Department at 1600 Main Street, Lovington, N.M.
•  5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6.  Sixth Grade Academy gymnasium at 310 N 5th Street, Lovington, N.M.

Lea County borders Gaines County in Texas, which is investigating an ongoing measles outbreak with at least 15 confirmed cases. However, the New Mexico youth had no recent travel or exposure to known cases from the Texas outbreak.

“It is important to get up to date on vaccinations now, especially if you or your children are not fully immunized for measles,” said Dr. Miranda Durham, NMDOH Chief Medical Officer. “Measles can spread easily, whether you’re in Lea County or elsewhere in the state, if you’re not current on the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.”

NMDOH is hosting a vaccination clinic in Lea County next week with no appointment necessary at the Hobbs Public Health Office, 1923 N. Dal Paso at the following days and times:

• Wednesday and Thursday, Feb. 19 and 20, 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (closed noon to 1 p.m.)
• Wednesday and Thursday, Feb. 26 and 27, 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (closed noon to 1 p.m.)

To check your vaccination status:

• Visit the state Vax View website.
• Call the NMHealth Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773).

To get the MMR or other vaccines:

• Contact your medical provider, pharmacy or local public health office.
• Visit nmhealth.org for providers or scheduling assistance.
• Call the NMHealth Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773). Vaccines are free for New Mexico children under the Vaccines for Children program.

Measles is extremely contagious. 

• Symptoms appear 7-21 days after exposure and can include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a red spotted rash that usually starts on the head or face and spreads across the body.
• Complications can include diarrhea, ear infections, and pneumonia.

New Mexico had two measles cases in 2024 – they were the first measles cases since 2021.

Medical providers should report suspect cases of measles immediately to the Department of Health at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833-796-8773), which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.