City Budget Hearings Begin July 10th

The City is currently underway with planning the budget for the upcoming 2008 Fiscal Year. This process is phased out, with preliminary work beginning early in the year to meet the August 31st adoption date.

*BUDGET HEARINGS SCHEDULE – FY2008
(REVISED 6/11/07)

DATE	TIME	DEPARTMENT
**July 10, 2007	During City Council’s regular meeting	Budget Overview
July 11, 2007	9:00 AM	Police Fire
July 12, 2007	9:00 AM	Airport Public Transit – Sun Metro Economic Development
July 13, 2007	9:00 AM	Financial Services Information Technology Human Resources Tax Municipal Clerk Convention and Performing Arts Center
July 19, 2007	9:00 AM	Community Development Museums & Cultural Affairs Library Zoo Parks & Recreation General Services
July 20, 2007	12:00 PM	Development Services Environmental Services Street Engineering
July 25, 2007	12:00 PM	City Attorney Mayor & Council City Manager OMB/Health Fund/Workers’ Comp. Non-Departmental
July 26, 2007	9:00 AM	Budget Wrap up
July 27, 2007	1:00 PM	Budget Wrap up

*Subject to changes and final approval by the Mayor and Mayor Pro-Tem. All Budget Hearings will be held in Council Chambers, 2nd floor of City Hall.

**Budget Overview to be conducted during City Council's Regular meeting on July 10.

Award-Winning Program Empowers El Pasoans to Take Pride in Community

Katherine Gunter Palafox, Executive Director of Keep El Paso Beautiful (KEPB), Ralph Johnson, Battalion Chief El Paso Fire Department and Eric Hutson of the Paso Del Norte Health Foundation traveled to Austin in May to receive the First place award for the Non-Profit category of the Texas Environmental Excellence Awards for the KEPB Community Tool Shed Program. The Community Tool Shed (CTS) Program started in November of 2004 with 8 CTS's established at Fire Departments throughout El Paso, with one in every district. The CTS's are lending libraries of clean-up and beautification supplies. The program has now expanded to 28 Tool Sheds with one at every Fire Department accessible to the community in El Paso. The El Paso Fire Departments over see the CTS's and check out the equipment to the community. Environmental Services came on board and partnered with KEPB in collaborative grants to the Rio Grande Council of Governments for purchasing of 16 Tool Sheds plus equipment. Environmental Services also helps to encourage clean-ups by offering free pick up of all the trash and debris collected from clean-ups facilitated from the CTS's when 20 or more volunteers participate. KEPB has received grants from the Paso Del Norte Health Foundation (PDNHF) totaling over $300,000 to help promote and establish this program in our community. Since storm 2006 KEPB wrote an additional grant to the PDNHF for storm relief supplies. City Representatives Beto O'Rourke, Steve Ortega, Susie Byrd and Ann Morgan Lilly donated discretionary funds to stock the CTS's with gardening tools. Annually over 265 clean-up/beautification projects are facilitated from the KEPB CTS Program. The CTS program promotes the KEPB "NO EXCUSE" philosophy by empowering community members to take greater responsibility towards enhancing their community environment through beautification and/or clean-up projects. The Keep El Paso Beautiful CTS Program is a success because of the partnerships established to create the program and the community of El Paso for taking pride in their city and participating in the efforts to "Keep El Paso Beautiful"!

To check out the tools you must be 18 years old with a valid ID. PLEASE CALL THE OFFICE OF KEPB FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.

KEPB Community Tool Sheds are stocked with the following tools and equipment:

Square Point Shovels	Garden Hoes
30" Poly Leaf Rake Silverman	16 Tine Weld Bow Rake- Silver
Indoor/Outdoor Push Brooms	Dust Pans with small brooms
Electrical Cords	Hedge Clippers
Small Hand Shovels	Wooden Grabbers
Hoe & Cultivator Combos	Push Mowers
Wheel Barrows	Blower
Shop Vac	Hand Tongs
Full Boxes Latex Gloves	Full Boxes Force Flex Bags
Full Boxes Ruffies Bags

For a listing of where the community tool sheds are located, click here.

El Paso Embraces the Blue

Recycling update: The City of El Paso's Curbside Recycling program has only been up and running for a little less than 2 months BUT it has already surpassed last year's total tonnage of recyclables collected at the citizen collection sites. In 2006 the total tonnage of recyclables collected was 6000 tons. Since the Kick Off of the Curbside Recycling program on April 22, 2007 to date over 6000 tons has already been collected!! Congratulations El Paso!! Environmental Services is aware that there is still some confusion as to what goes into the Blue Bins, the placement of the Blue Bins on the curb and when to put the Blue Bins on the curb. Here are some helpful hints to make the Curbside Recycling program run even smoother

• ONLY PUT RECYCLABLES IN THE BLUE BIN
• ONLY PLASTICS #1 AND #2
• ONLY TAKE YOUR BLUE BIN TO THE CURB WHEN IT IS FULL
• DON'T TAKE YOUR BLUE BIN TO THE CURB ON WINDY DAYS
• Make sure there is a minimum of 3 feet between your trash bin and recycle bin

Sun Metro Passenger Tips

Your guide to a smooth ride begins with: Preparation, Communication and Satisfaction

Preparation

• Always have exact change and let the driver know what type of fare you would like to pay.
• Always use U.S. currency and never use crumpled bills.
• Always keep route schedule in mind and arrive ten minutes before listed time.

• Don't delay! Always call customer service if you have been waiting too long.
• Keep it cool! If the A/C is turned on keep the windows closed.
• Too Hot? Inform your driver if you think it's getting too warm.

• Oops! Wrong coin, fare box is jammed! Customers can now count on every supervisory being trained to fix fare boxes.
• Where's the bus? Customers can call 533-3333 and we will do everything possible to keep you going!

• Customer Service: Average wait time to speak to a customer service representative is 30 seconds!
• Transit Route Supervisors: Supervisors are assigned to every area of El Paso to ensure that buses are running on time and to assist passengers with questions!

Planning a Parade? City assistance may be available!

Community clubs and organizations planning a parade between September 1st of 2007 and August 31st of 2008 may still be eligible for City assistance. There is still time! The application deadline for Fiscal Year 2008 has been extended until July 15, 2007.

How can my organization be eligible for funding consideration?

1. Submit a formal application and pay the $60.00 application fee to the Development Services Department for the parade.
2. Explain in detail, why your organization should be considered for support, and which criteria you meet.

1. The event is neither sponsored by a religious organization, nor part of a religious ceremony or function.
2. The event is not a school function nor directed to a specific school, or specific school district.
3. The event is neither politically oriented toward a specific public opinion, group or person nor is it discriminatory for or against a specific opinion, group or person.
4. The event must allow citywide participation.
5. The event must target, benefit or serve the general public aesthetically, artistically, and culturally, as a memorial to those that have served the public, or serve another specifically identified municipal purpose.
6. Events identified with or linked to a holiday must be non-religious in nature.
7. The event must be sponsored by 501(c) 3 registered non-profit organizations.
8. The number of sponsored events per representative district should be distributed equally among the districts.
9. The applicant does not have the means to pay for the event.

Downtown Construction Update

Get the latest information on the City initiative addressing the major reconstruction of several streets in the downtown area.

Substantive work has been completed in the Central Business District Phase III project targeting the reconstruction of several streets in the downtown area. The overall project continues ahead of schedule with expected completion late this summer. The scope of work completed for each phase includes the removal and replacement of existing asphalt pavement, sidewalks, driveways and existing traffic signals and street lighting. The improvement project also upgraded all existing water and sanitary sewer lines.

The following provides a summary of the most recent work completed and current activity on Santa Fe, Franklin and Stanton streets.

    Santa Fe Street:

• Construction on the east side of Santa Fe is now complete and open to traffic between the Border Highway and Paisano as of May 1, 2007
• Construction on the west side of the street between Montestruc and Paisano is still in progress
• Expected completion is in late July

• Construction between Campbell and Kansas is now complete and open to traffic as of April 23, 2007
• Construction between Kansas and Stanton is scheduled to be completed and open to traffic mid June
• Construction between Stanton and Mesa will remain closed due to the pending work needed at the intersection of Mesa and Franklin to initiate early July

• Construction between San Antonio and Texas is now complete and open to traffic as of May 30, 2007
• Construction between Texas and Mills and between Mills and Main is scheduled to be complete in late June

Storm 2006 Capital Project

Throughout the upcoming months several construction projects will be coming on line as critical repair and reconstruction priorities that have been identified as a result of Storm 2006.

All efforts to expedite the critical infrastructure work that is necessary have been implemented to have the Storm 2006 Capital Project significantly completed within an eighteen-month period (by February 2008) in order to meet federal reimbursement guidelines. The following is a listing of projects currently in construction under this initiative and new construction projects expected to commence this month.

Repair/ Reconstruction Capital Priorities



To view the latest Storm 2006 Update presentation, please click here.

New Zoning and Building Construction Regulations Approved

During the City Council Meeting of Tuesday, June 5, 2007, proposed amendments to zoning and building construction regulations were approved providing for the modernization and streamlining of multiple ordinances impacting our community.

Prior City Council directive called for a coordinated and collective rewrite process that sought to modernize the zoning and building construction regulations in Titles 15, 17, 18 and 20 of the Municipal Code. This consisted of an expansive review process spearheaded by the Building & Zoning Advisory Committee (BZAC), which was created to provide oversight and policy recommendations. Comprised of representation from fourteen member organizations, the BZAC provided detailed recommendations to the City Plan Commission on each of the proposed ordinance changes. Additionally, the City Plan Commission created a sub-committee that further reviewed the recommendations for a year prior to the presentation to City Council on June 5, 2007. Legislative Review Committee Meetings will be scheduled pursuant to the adoption of these ordinances to evaluate additional areas within the code revisions. The approved new zoning and landscape regulations will be effective as of October 1, 2007.

The following are some of the revisions made in the New Zoning Regulations Ordinance to include:

• Creation of mixed-use zoning regulations allowing for developments with a mix of residential, commercial and industrial uses
• Clarification of parking requirements for individual uses
• Reduction in height and size of pole signs and monument signs in all commercial and manufacturing districts
• Allowance of more administrative review in application processing
• User-friendly formatting, clarification of language and text streamlining

Celebrate POTTERPALOOZA @ the Library

The El Paso Public Library is hosting several fun events to ring in the new Harry Potter book by author J.K. Rowling. Midnight's alright for reading the new Potter book especially at the Dorris Van Doren and Main Libraries, both of which will remain open until midnight on July 20 in order to distribute the new book first. Stick around until midnight and you could be among the first to check the book out.

Richard Burges Branch Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Pre-release Party
Friday, July 20
2:00 to 5:00 PM
9600 Dyer
Events include a trivia contest, movie and free refreshments

Dorris Van Doren and Westside Library's Harry Potter Party
Friday, July 20
10:00 PM - Midnight
551 Redd Rd.
Events include a Harry Potter movie, a costume contest and free late night snacks!


Main Library Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Release Party
Friday, July 20
9:00 PM to 1:00 AM
501 N. Oregon
Events include a trivia contest, a costume contest, movie outside in the park and free milk and cookies!

Tom Lea Centennial: Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Tom Lea's birth

El Paso Public Library
The roots of Tom Lea and his family lie deep in the soil of El Paso and the southwest. Indeed he often expressed his deep satisfaction at returning to his home, whether the trip had been short or long. During the month of July, the El Paso Public Library will be featuring Tom Lea and his work as reflected in the collections at the Main Library, 501 N. Oregon (on Cleveland Square). For those who know little about the man, his environment and body of work, the library staff has prepared a pathfinder for those beginning such a study. This may be picked up at the Reference Desk which is adjacent to the Great Hall, (Atrium) of the expanded library.

The Main Library will also be displaying a selection of books and other materials to facilitate the study and appreciation of this native son. Tom Lea greatly felt the impact of World War II and a selection of photographs from this period both at home and abroad will be available in the Maud Sullivan Gallery. The library's mural, "Southwest," was painted in 1956 by Tom Lea and his wife, Sarah, as a gift to the citizens of El Paso. It is the only Tom Lea mural in which his wife participated and it is signed by both Tom and Sarah Lea. Originally painted for the Southwest Reading Room, the mural was relocated to the entrance of the new building in 2006. After completing the mural, Tom Lea wrote: It took its shape simply as a luminous window looking out upon its birthland. It spoke of space, sun, cloud, rain, wind, mountain, mesa, rock, sand, soil, and of living growth nurtured by them. The only human habitant of this elemental landscape was the viewer of the mural; the landscape's horizon was at the viewer's eye level when standing on the library's floor. It was the earth, inhabited only by the viewer's mind. The study for "Southwest" is in the collection of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington, D.C.

Please call 543-5468 for more information during regular library hours.

Old West…New Settings
Butterfield Trail Opens!

The much anticipated Buttefield Trail Golf Club designed Tom Fazio opened its doors on June 9th, 2007. In addition to the desert-style, 7,307-yard golf course, this beautiful, state of the art 8,800-square-foot clubhouse "Salida del Sol" will endow you with its exceptional service while providing you a delightful taste for your palate. Tee times reservations will be accepted up to seven days in advance by calling the golf shop at 915.772.1038. City of El Paso residents will receive preferred rates of $45 Monday - Friday; $60 Saturday - Sunday. Price includes greens fee, golf cart and practice range balls prior to play. Preferred senior and military rates are also available.

For more information, visit: http://www.butterfieldtrailgolf.com.

Community & Human Development: Social Services Division

The City of El Paso's Department of Community and Human Development's Social Services Division is full of programs that will benefit the citizens of El Paso. These services are aimed at improving the quality of life to many residents in our Sun City.

	Foster Grandparent Program
	Retired Senior Volunteer Program
	Project Focus Senior Peer Counseling Program

Experience the Ocean's Wonders at the El Paso Zoo

The El Paso Zoo celebrated World Ocean Day on June 9th. Everyday, you can see some of the El Paso Zoo's own resident ocean animals - the sea lions: Sunny, Sushi, Coco & Cleo. Your journey into their exhibit is patterned after the rocky shoreline of the Pacific coast in northern California and Oregon, where the Californian sea lion lives. Kids can experience the wonder and fun of the World of the Sea Lion show at 10:45 & 2:45, daily. For Sea Lion Show Visitors: Seafood Watch Card You'll also receive a handy pocket-sized "Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Card" that will help you make smart consumer choices when grocery shopping to contribute to ocean conservation. Questions you can ask when shopping like "Where is the seafood from?" "Was it farmed or wild-caught?" "How was it caught?". These questions can determine if the fish is managed, caught or farmed in environmentally-friendly ways. It also gives you a list of "Best Choices," "Good Alternatives," and fish to "Avoid."

You can also download a seafood watch card here on the El Paso Zoo website's "Take Action" page and make fish-friendly choices when you visit the market for your next seafood meal.

You can access the "Take Action" section in the pull down menu for more information or to print out your own seafood watch sheet.

Everyday, the Zoo hopes to inspire visitors to learn, care and act to save animals and their habitats through leadership and conservation. The El Paso Zoo serves as a regional center for affordable family fun, formal and informal education, and conservation efforts for wildlife and their natural habitat. The Zoo serves nearly 300,000 visitors annually from El Paso, New Mexico and the Borderland area. Zoo opens daily at 9:30am. Tickets are sold until 4:00pm. Grounds close at 5:00pm. Saturday & Sunday: hours are 9:30-5:00. Grounds close at 6:00pm. Admission $5; $4(ages 62+); $3(ages 3-12) Kids under 2 are free. Military Discounts. Zoo Memberships: 532-8156. El Paso Zoo: 4001 E. Paisano: 521-1850

National Association of County & City Health Officials
Public Health Preparedness Summit 2007 in Washington D.C.
By William John Wolff, M.P.H., M.P.A., Environmental Quality Coordinator

Three El Paso City County Health & Environmental staff members were honored by being invited to speak at the National Association of County and City Health Officials' Public Health Preparedness Summit in Washington D.C. this past February. Joanne Bates, Ishah Coleman, and William Wolff gave three presentation sessions in addition to one poster session. Topics included pandemic flu education strategies, cultural competency during a disaster and the El Paso City County Health & Environmental District's response to the aftermath of Storm 2006. As far as we are aware, this is the first time that El Paso has been on the agenda for this conference. Applications were submitted with the sentiment that it was important for the rest of the nation to learn about the uniqueness of the El Paso border community. Attendees representing various areas around the country have already made contact with the District after the conference requesting additional information. This will further the District's efforts to gain attention on the El Paso region regarding public health issues. A special thanks goes to Martha Trejo, who produced a professional poster for the group. For more information on the 2007 Public Health Preparedness Summit, log on to www.phprep.org

Joanne Bates	Ishah Coleman	William Wolff

It's ROAD-EO Time at Environmental Services!

Environmental Services held its 12th Annual ROAD-EO, on Saturday May 12th and Monday April 14th. A ROAD-EO is a truck and heavy equipment skills competition. This year's slogan "We Still Make House Calls", screened on the backs of contestants and judges alike, is a reminder of a profession that brings customer service to your front door, or at least to your curb. Even in the midst of the recycling program, a moment of relaxation was found to enjoy the festivities. Ellen Smyth, Director of Environmental Services, took the reigns of dozer, just to keep everyone on their toes.

This year's winners were:

Landfill

Compactor	1st Place - Juan Trivizo 2nd Place - Jesus Marquez 3rd Place - Eduardo Gallegos
Dozer	1st Place - Arturo Moya 2nd Place - Tomas Chavarria 3rd Place - Lorenzo Carlos
Scraper	1st Place - Juan Banda 2nd Place - Jose Ortega 3rd Place - Lorenzo Romo

Collections

Rear Loader	1st Place - Juventino Carrizoza 2nd Place - Pedro Luna 3rd Place - Luis R. Morales
Roll-Off	1st Place - Randy Youngblood 2nd Place - Gerardo Valenzuela 3rd Place - Martin Olivas
Automation	1st Place - Rogelio Priego 2nd Place - Jose Valdez 3rd Place - Jorge Rojas

First place winners took their skills to College Station to compete earlier this month.

Environmental Services: "We Still Make House Calls"

On April 13, 2007, at around 6:00 a.m., Environmental Services employee Javier Ortiz was collecting the waste containers on his assigned route. He was driving through the 11800 block of Pete Rose, when Mr. Ortiz noticed what at first appeared to be trash bags on the street next to a tipped over container. Upon taking a closer look what he found was an elderly woman, Mrs. Zelma Norris who is in her 70's, laying unconscious on the curb with the container lid over her. Mr. Ortiz called to get her attention and when there was no response he immediately called 911. After a few seconds Mrs. Norris regained consciousness. Mr. Ortiz removed his vest, put it on her and stayed with her until EMS arrived. Fortunately, Mrs. Norris came through this incident without any permanent damage and is doing just fine.

Bravo to Mr. Javier Ortiz for going above and beyond the call of duty by not only caring for our environment, but for the people of our community.

Thank you to Mr. Ortiz for providing Environmental Service with a "HEART."

Congrats to the El Paso Zoo for winning El Paso Magazine's Best of the Best 2007 - Category: Best Field Trip

If you have never been to the Zoo - take your kids or go yourself and see what El Paso Magazine's readers know- That's it's a Zoolightful place to visit!

The El Paso Zoo serves as a regional center for affordable family fun, formal and informal education, and conservation efforts for wildlife and their natural habitat. The Zoo serves nearly 300,000 visitors annually from El Paso, New Mexico and the Borderland area. Kids can watch sea lions frolic in the "World of the Sea Lion" show every day at 10:45 a.m. & 2:45 p.m. or get so close to a tiger they can count his whiskers. See the Asian elephants in their enrichment training sessions at Noon. The Zoo is one of the largest on the Southwest's border with 12 acres of exhibits in a lush park setting, and it's growing to 36 acres! The African Savannah exhibit will open in phases starting in late 2007 and includes lions, zebras, giraffes, a train, a new restaurant and gift shop. You'll see over 1,700 animals and more than 240 species, many critically endangered - leopards, jaguars, spectacled & sun bears, reptiles, birds, fish, invertebrates in natural habitat exhibits, even a spider monkey island. The Asian Complex is home to elephants, tigers and orangutans. The Americas Aviary includes a walkway for visitors as well as a waterfall, flowers and plants. Treat yourself to ice cream at The Grasslands Café. Buy a cool t-shirt at the Elephant's Trunk Gift Shop. Plan your next Zoolightful event; birthday, wedding, company picnic, or Quinceañeras with the Zoo's "A Taste of the Wild" events planning and ask for Sandra Wakitsch: 471-1413. Check the website for updates, special activities & children's educational events; www.elpasozoo.org.

TAKE ADVANTAGE

Zoo Society Member Party

July 27, 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Free Entry if Zoo Member
Memberships can be purchased at Front Gate and anyone can join the night of the event
Info: 532-8156
Live Entertainment & Special Dinner Menu

The annual Zoo Society Member's Party is a free treat for the people who have bought memberships throughout the year. It gives people a change to see the Zoo and mingle with other members. PLUS - you don't have to be a member to attend - you can buy your annual Zoo pass the night of the event and get into the party for free. LIVE MUSIC!!!! It's a Special Dinner in Grasslands Café along with the cafe's regular menu - thanks to the folks at *A Taste of the Wild* Call Sandra Wakitsch 471-1413 for more info on her wonderful events and the services *A Taste of the Wild* can offer for your next picnic, reunion, Zoolightful Birthday party (even weddings). Zoo Membership: $50 = 2 Adults & up to 5 kids Memberships can be purchased at front gate or for more info: 532-8156 or check out the zoo website for a rundown of the different memberships available: www.elpasozoo.org.

2007 Summer Music Concert Series

Music Under the Stars World Festival 2007!
The Museums and Cultural Affairs Department (MCAD) is proud to present the 24th annual Music Under the Stars World Festival! After twenty-three successful seasons, the festival now attracts over 100,000 people every year, making the festival one of the largest free music festivals in Texas. Concerts are every Sunday at 7:30 pm (unless otherwise noted) at the Chamizal National Memorial located at 800 South San Marcial St.

Alfresco! Fridays 2007 Brings Free Concerts to Downtown
In 2007, Alfresco! Fridays enters its 5th season. Alfresco!, held every Friday at the Arts Festival Plaza, provides a casual way to experience some of the best established and upcoming local bands. The upcoming season will feature Country & Western, Reggae, Oldies, and Flamenco music styles, as well as a new Artist Market, providing local artists and artisans a venue to connect with the community.

For full schedules for each concert series or more information, call the City of El Paso Museums and Cultural Affairs Department at (915) 541-4481, visit www.elpasotexas.gov/mcad.

The El Paso Museum of Art presents 3rd Thursday: Yo-Co's At The Opera!

3rd Thursdays is the latest offering from the El Paso Museum of Art that brings together and eclectic crowd for an evening of sophistication, socializing and art on the third Thursday of each month at the Museum. Join us on Thursday, July 19, 2007 6-8pm for Great food, beverages and a guest performance by a member of the El Paso City Opera. Come early to register to win two free tickets to Giuseppe Verdi's Aida, showing at the Opera in September. YoCo's (Young Cosmopolitans) are invited to network and enjoy fabulous food and drink in a casual environment. Come see the Museum like you've never seen it before!

$8 donation at door for singles
$12 donation at the door for pairs
$5 donation at the door for Museum members
$10 donation at the door for Museum member couples

For more information contact Jeff Romney, Head of Development, 915.532.1707 ext. 13

Jose Cisneros: A Life in Art
Running through September 30, 2007

Paying homage to one of El Paso's most prolific artists, Jose Cisneros: A Life in Art will follow Cisneros' life and career from his youthful years in Durango, Juarez and El Paso when he discovered his love of art, to his first book illustrations to his greatest achievement Riders Across the Centuries: Horsemen of the Spanish Borderlands, written and illustrated by the artist. Inspired by a deep connection to the history of the Southwest, Cisneros has spent a lifetime turning his passions into art. Lectures and educational programs will accompany the exhibition of forty drawing and prints.

Save the Date
The exhibition will be open for public viewing through September 30, 2007 at the El Paso Museum of Art. Museum hours are Tuesday - Saturday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm with extended hours Thursday evenings until 9:00 pm. Sunday 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm. Closed Mondays and Major Holidays.

Join us on Sunday, July 22, 2007 from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm at the El Paso Museum of Art as Dr. Haskell Monroe, Jr. presents: "Jose Cisneros: The Art of Faith, Tradition, and Heritage." A reception will follow. Please call (915) 532-1707 to R.S.V.P. or to request more information. This event is free to the public.

The El Paso Museum of Art Announces the Beginning of the Foreign Film Series

The El Paso Museum of Art Foreign Film Series began this June and will continue through November. All films are free and begin at 2:00 pm on scheduled Saturdays. (No film June 30.) Call (915) 532-1707 or log on to www.elpasoartmuseum.org for more information.

Housing Division - Community & Human Development

Do you need down payment and closing cost assistance? Apply for a City Bond Loan! As of April 2007, there are new funds available for first-time homebuyers.

What do I get with a 2007 City Mortgage Revenue Bond?

• Low, fixed interest rate of 6.10%
• 4% in down payment & closing cost assistance (e.g. on a $100,000 loan, you would receive $4,000 in grant assistance.) If you buy in a target area, you receive 6% in assistance!
• 30 year term on a conventional government (FHA, VA, Rural) mortgage loan

• You may not have owned a home in the last 3 years
• You need to occupy the home as your principal residence
• You need to have adequate income and credit to qualify
• Your home must be located within El Paso City Limits
• Your income and purchase price cannot be above the limits below

How do I apply?
See one of our participating mortgage lenders:

• Rocky Mountain Mortgage     # 791-4100
• Countrywide Home Loans       # 591-1200
• GECU                                       # 774-6081
• Patriot Mortgage                     # 757-9500
• State National Bank                 # 485-9239

El Paso Zoo

"Military, Fire & Law Enforcement Appreciation Day"
El Paso Zoo
Saturday, July 7th      9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
HALF-PRICE DAY


Whether you're a police officer, fire fighter, customs agent or member of the Border Patrol - you are invited as the El Paso Zoo honors all the men and women who save, serve and protect our country. All visitors will pay half price for zoo admission. Inside the zoo, there'll be different attractions, entertainment & music to celebrate your day. www.elpasozoo.org

HEALTH WELLNESS

Important Information from the City-County Health & Environmental District

Avoiding the Dangers of Lightning Strikes

There are thousands of lightning strikes every day. Scientists think that lightning hits somewhere on the earth about 100 times every second. More people are killed by lightning than by any other kind of storm, including hurricanes and tornadoes. Every year, about 100 people are killed by lightning in the United States and in the whole world, lightning kills more than 1,000 people in a year, maybe many more. Lightning hurts a lot more people than are killed by it and many of those who live are hurt very badly. Thunderstorm activity is greatest during the months of July and August. Since Friday June 8th 2007 Fire Department emergency crews have responded to 3 incidents involving lightning strikes. Two residences struck by lightning were also reported in the county. Objects struck by lightning have included trees and structures. El Paso Fire Department Officials would like to offer these lightning safety precautions:

Stay Alert

• Monitor local weather conditions regularly with a special weather radio or AM/FM radio.
• Recognize the signs of an oncoming thunder and lightning storm - towering clouds with a "cauliflower" shape, dark skies and distant rumbles of thunder or flashes of lightning. Do not wait for lightning to strike nearby before taking cover

• Look for a large, enclosed building when a thunder or lightning storm threatens. That's the best choice.
• If you are in a car and it has a hard top, stay inside and keep the windows rolled up.
• Avoid small sheds and lean-tos or partial shelters, like pavilions.
• Stay at least a few feet away from open windows, sinks, toilets, tubs, showers, electric boxes and outlets, and appliances. Lightning can flow through these symptoms and "jump" to a person.
• Do not shower or take a bath during a thunder or lightning storm.
• Avoid using regular telephones, except in an emergency. If lightning hits the telephone lines, it could flow to the phone. Cell or cordless phones, not connected to the building's wiring, are safe to use.

• If your skin tingles or your hair stands on the end, a lightning strike may be about to happen. Crouch down on the balls of your feet with your feet close together. Keep your hands on your knees and lower your head. Get as low as possible without touching your hands or knees to the ground. DO NOT LIE DOWN!
• If you are swimming, fishing or boating and there are clouds, dark skies and distant rumbles of thunder or flashes of lightning, get to land immediately and seek shelter.
• If you are in a boat and cannot get to shore, crouch down in the middle of the boat. Go below if possible.
• If you are on land, find a low spot away from trees, metal fences, pipes, and tall or long objects.
• If you are in the woods, look for an area of shorter trees. Crouch down away from tree trunks.

Help to Prevent a Heat Related Emergency from Happening to You!

El Paso Fire Department emergency crews responded to 5 heat related emergencies from Friday June 1st to Sunday June 3rd 2007. Four males, ages 8, 35, 38, and 50 years old and one female, age 13, were all treated for heat emergencies and all occurred in different areas of the city. All of the patients displayed heat related symptoms such as cool, moist skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness and vomiting.

In one incident the heat overcame an 8-year-old male as he played at Marty Robbins Park and in another a 13-year-old female fell victim to the heat at the Fox Plaza swap meet.  One helpful tip in preventing heat emergencies is to use the Buddy System, especially to help elderly from heat danger. To learn more about the Buddy System and or to donate a fan to help keep El Pasoans cool this summer, visit the Extreme Weather Taskforce website (http://www.elpasotexas.gov/weather_task_force/).
Fire officials are urging the public to use caution when conducting outdoor activities and offer this helpful information on heat emergencies:

Recommendations for Heat Emergencies
There are three types of heat emergencies you should be concerned about.

• Heat Stroke
  This is the most serious type of heat emergency. It is LIFE-THREATENING and requires IMMEDIATE and AGGRESSIVE treatment!
  
  Heat stroke occurs when the body's heat regulating mechanism fails. The body temperature rises so high that brain damage and death may result unless the body is cooled quickly.
  
  SIGNS & SYMPTOMS:
  The victim's skin is HOT, RED and usually DRY. Pupils are very small. The body temperature is VERY HIGH, sometimes as high as 105 degrees.
  
  FIRST AID:
  Remember, Heat Stroke is a life-threatening emergency and requires prompt action! Summon professional help. Get the victim into a cool place.
  
      COOL THE VICTIM AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE IN ANY MANNER POSSIBLE!
  Place the victim in a bathtub of cool water, wrap in wet sheets, and place in an air-conditioned room.
  
  Do not give victim anything by mouth. Treat for shock.
  
  
• Heat Exhaustion
  Heat exhaustion is less dangerous than heat stroke. It is caused by fluid loss, which in turn causes blood flow to decrease in vital organs, resulting in a form of shock.
  
  SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:
  COOL, PALE AND MOIST skin, heavy sweating, dilated pupils (wide), headache, nausea, dizziness and vomiting. Body temperature will be near normal.
  
  FIRST AID:
  Get the victim out of the heat and into a cool place. Place in the shock position, lying on the back with feet raised. Remove or loosen clothing. Cool by fanning or applying cold packs or wet towels or sheets. If conscious, give water to drink every 15 minutes.
  
  IMPORTANT: WHILE HEAT EXHAUSTION IS NOT A LIFE- THREATENING EMERGENCY LIKE HEAT STROKE, IT CAN PROGRESS TO HEAT STROKE IF LEFT UNTREATED!
  
  
• Heat Cramps
  Heat cramps are muscular pain and spasms due to heavy exertion. They usually involve the abdominal muscles or legs. It is generally thought this condition is caused by loss of water and salt through sweating.
  
  FIRST AID:
  Get victim to a cool place. If they can tolerate it, give one-half glass of water every 15 minutes. Heat cramps can usually be avoided by increasing fluid intake when active in hot weather.

The official filing of the City's FY 2007 - 2008 Budget will be on Monday, July 2nd. The City's budget is an item that all employees should be informed on. In addition to the listing that has been provided in this newsletter of all the upcoming budget hearing dates, we will be scheduling two employee meetings in the coming weeks to go over the budget with employees and to answer any questions you may have. I look forward to FY 2008 being another successful year for the City of El Paso organization.

We are still asking for employees' input on this Employee Newsletter. If you have not already done so, please take the time to answer the following questions by either submitting your responses to the Communications & Public Affairs Office at City Hall on the 10th Floor or by emailing elpasopio@elpasotexas.gov. We appreciate your time and input.

1. Do you receive the newsletter?

2. How often do you read the employee newsletter?

3. How useful is the information included in the articles in the Employee Newsletter? (on a scale of 1 - 5; 1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest)
   
   1 - Not at all
   2
   3 - Moderately useful
   4
   5 - Very useful

4. What type of information would you like to see included in future Employee Newsletters?

5. Do you feel that there is improved information sharing with employees on important policies, events and services?

General Links

• Human Resources
• City Employees' Pension Fund
• Police and Fire Pension Fund
• Neighborhood Toolbox
• Employee Newsletter Archive
• The Portal
• City Events Calendar
• City News Page

Benefits Services

• Health Benefits - Access Healthsource
• Dental - Concordia
• Dental – Safeguard
• Pharmacy - RESTAT
• Vision – Block
• Unum Life Insurance – Disability
• ING Life Insurance – Dependent/Basic/
  AD & D
• ING – Deferred Compensation
• EP Fitness
• Del Sol Medical Center
• Las Palmas Medical Center

Contact Us

Do you have a question, comment or feedback on the Employee Newsletter? Let us know!

Send us an email at:
elpasopio@elpasotexas.gov

We value your opinion!

The History of Butterfield Trail

Butterfield Trail dates back to 1858 when the Butterfield Overland Mail Company operated for three years carrying mail and passengers across country from Missouri to San Francisco. More than 700 miles of the almost 2,800 mile mail route ran across the state of Texas. Part of the original trail used still runs through the El Paso International Airport and alongside Hole #8 of the Butterfield Trail Golf Club, thus providing the perfect name for our emerald gem.

Modern travelers can still view some of the same landscapes in West Texas, and follow exact segments of the route, reaching historical markers, all while feeling
some nostalgia for the historic Texas frontier.

Interesting facts about the historic Butterfield Overland Mail Route include:

• Operated from 1858-1861
• Entire 2,800-mile run was made in 25 days - guaranteed (at an average speed of 5 MPH)
• Named after John Butterfield, president of the Butterfield Overland Mail Company
• Heavy Concord Stage Coaches and lighter Celerity Wagons were used for rugged terrain and steep grades.
• Two-way, semi-weekly service was provided departing from Tipton, MO and San Francisco, CA simultaneously
• Mules were used instead of horses where Indian encounters were more likely. As the Indians did not value mules as they did horses, therefore making it less likely to attack a mule-drawn stagecoach.
• Coaches carried up to 10 passengers and driver at a fare of $150-$200pp for entire trip.
• The word "Shotgun" is derived from the passenger that sat next to the driver with a rifle to ward off potential thieves
• Postage was just 20 cents per ounce.
• The demise of the Butterfield Overland Mail Company is attributed to the Civil War along with political conflicts and policy differences with Butterfield's major lender, Wells Fargo.
• Efforts after the Civil War to reestablish the original Butterfield service failed.