Good morning, El Paso. It’s Tuesday and El Paso seems to be getting more and more expensive. We’ll tell you why below.

In today’s Border City Buzz:

• El Paso Gas Prices Higher Than Average

• New Coffee Shop In Courthouse

• Locomotive Tickets On Sale

Let’s get to it.

Around Town

Your Electric Bill Could Be Increasing ⚡

El Paso Electric is considering raising your electricity bill by about $22 a month—or roughly the cost of your daily coffee habit—citing the need to beef up power infrastructure for the growing Borderland.

CEO Kelly Tomblin admitted, “Nobody wants to hear about rate review,” but argued it’s essential to keep up with modernization and growth. They even reminded customers of tools to save energy and money.

El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson wasn’t thrilled, saying the increase “could place a substantial burden” on residents. The City Council will discuss next steps on February 3, promising to look out for your wallet.

El Paso Gas Prices Higher Than Texas Average ⛽

Gas prices in El Paso are running higher than the Texas average at $2.96 per gallon, compared to $2.74 statewide. While it's still cheaper than the national average of $3.13, no one’s thrilled about paying more at the pump.

AAA warns that fluctuating crude oil prices might push gas prices even higher, but there are plenty of ways to save at the pump:

• Combine errands: Plan smarter trips to reduce mileage and save gas.

• Use gas apps: Find the cheapest gas near you with tools like GasBuddy or Waze.

• Check your tires: Proper inflation can boost fuel efficiency by 3.3%.

• Fill up on Mondays: Historically the cheapest day to refuel.

• Skip premium gas: Regular unleaded works for most cars and can save you up to $0.50 per gallon.

• Join loyalty programs: Many gas stations and stores offer discounts for members.

• Turn off your engine: Avoid idling to cut down on unnecessary fuel usage.

• Use cruise control: Helps save 7-14% on gas during highway drives.

• Get a warehouse membership: Stores like Costco offer lower gas prices for members.

UTEP Financial Aid Scam 🪙

Some UTEP students recently discovered that their financial aid refunds were sent to mysterious bank accounts, leaving them scrambling for answers.

Students like Cristian Corbett and Lorena Lopez noticed unrecognizable bank details in their accounts before their funds vanished. When they reported it, they were told to change passwords, file reports with the FBI, and contact the Department of Education.

UTEP says the issue is likely linked to phishing attacks rather than a hack. They’re working with the FBI and offering one-on-one assistance to affected students.

Meanwhile, cybersecurity experts urge caution, highlighting how sneaky phishing emails have become. For immediate relief, UTEP encourages impacted students to apply for emergency financial aid.

Lesson learned: always double-check those emails—phishers are clever, but we can be smarter!

Things To Do

Free Yoga Class 🧘‍♀️

Looking to start 2025 with some much-needed zen? Yoga With Tammie has you covered! Join a free, relaxing yoga session at Gary Del Palacio Recreation Center (3001 Parkwood St, El Paso) today, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM.

Whether you're a pro or just getting started, this mindfulness-focused class is perfect for all levels. No registration needed—just bring your mat, and let’s stretch into self-care! Call 915-212-0560 for more details.

Free Zumba 💃

Feel like dancing your way to fitness? Zumba Conditioning is happening tonight from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the Gary Del Palacio Recreation Center (3001 Parkwood St, El Paso).

This free, high-energy class is perfect for all fitness levels—whether you’re a Zumba newbie or a dance-floor regular. No need to register, just show up and get moving! 💃💪 Call 915-212-0560 for more info.

Local Business

New Coffee Shop In Courthouse ☕

A new caffeine hotspot is brewing at the Enrique Moreno El Paso County Courthouse! Glia’s Coffee Co. is opened its latest location on Monday, Jan. 27, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Known for its specialty coffee and Mexican-inspired menu, Glia’s will serve visitors Monday through Friday from 7:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

Founded in 2022, Glia’s quirky name pays tribute to glial brain cells and the founder’s family dog. It’s where science, coffee, and love for food collide—don’t miss it!

Weather

Tuesday

⬆️ 66 ⬇️ 35 | 🌤️ | 1% chance of rain

Wednesday

⬆️ 54 ⬇️ 31 | 🌤️ | 15% chance of rain

Thursday

⬆️ 54 ⬇️ 31 | ☀️🍃 | 3% chance of rain

Live Music & Entertainment

Tuesday

• Open Mic Night - Rosewood Bar - 412 E San Antonio Ave, El Paso, TX - 9:00 P.M. - 12:00 A.M.

• If Not For Me - RockHouse Bar & Grill - 9828 Montana Ave, El Paso, TX - 6:30 P.M. - 10:30 P.M.

• Versus Me – RockHouse Bar & Grill – 9828 Montana Ave. El Paso – 7:00 P.M. - 11:00 P.M.

• The Funeral Portrait – RockHouse Bar & Grill – 9828 Montana Ave. El Paso – 7:00 P.M. - 11:00 P.M.

Sports

Locomotive Tickets Go On Sale! ⚽

Get ready to cheer for El Paso Locomotive FC! Single-game tickets for the 2025 USL Championship season go on sale Friday, February 7 at 10 A.M. at eplocomotivefc.com/tickets.

Want early access? Sign up for the Single Game Ticket Waitlist to buy tickets a day early, on Thursday, February 6 at 2 P.M.

Key Dates for Ticket Purchases:

• Season Ticket Members & Corporate Partners: Early access starts February 4.

• Mini Plan Members: Pre-purchase begins February 5.

• Group Leaders: Access starts February 6 at 10 A.M.

The season kicks off on March 8 at Southwest University Park with a home opener against the reigning champions, Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. Find the full schedule at eplocomotivefc.com/schedule.

For season tickets and priority seating, visit eplocomotivefc.com/seasontickets or call (915) 235-GOAL.

UTEP’s Frazier Wins Player Of The Week

UTEP's Otis Frazier III just nabbed Conference USA Player of the Week, and honestly, it’s about time! The senior standout lit up the court, averaging 17 points, 5.5 steals, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game last week.

This is Frazier’s second time earning the honor, and he’s proving why he’s a key player for the Miners.

Against Kennesaw State, Frazier tied a school record with eight steals and dropped 17 points, helping the team erase a nine-point deficit and clinch a 73-71 victory.

Earlier in the week, he put up another 17-point performance against Jax State, rallying in the second half despite foul trouble.

Frazier’s stellar play has propelled UTEP into a first-place tie in the league, showing he’s not just good—he’s clutch.

Thank YOU!

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