Good morning, El Paso. It’s Friday. Hope everyone is ready for the weekend. Lots of fun things going on in the city this weekend.

In today’s Border City Buzz:

• Bob the Goat Memorial Canceled

• UTEP Sneaks Past Liberty

• Huge Bridal, Quince & Sweet 16 Expo

Let’s get to it.

Around Town

The Wait Is Over, Star Ceiling Is Here! 💡

The El Paso Museum of Art today unveils Star Ceiling (El Paso), a stunning installation by world-renowned artist Leo Villareal.

The 120-foot LED array, featuring 14,590 energy-efficient lights in non-repeating patterns, offers a unique experience with every visit. Beneath the lights, visitors can relax on "zero-gravity" benches surrounded by planters with native desert plants.

Funded by the El Paso Museum of Art Foundation and Paso del Norte Community Foundation, the $5.9 million project celebrates El Paso’s vibrant arts community. Villareal, raised in El Paso, called the piece a "gift to the city."

To celebrate its debut, a free public event will take place today from 5-8 P.M. with the lighting happening at 5:45 P.M.

The event will have live music, pan dulce, and holiday drinks. Visitors can also enjoy lightbox-making activities and guided tours by curators to learn about Villareal’s creative process.

Bob Goat Memorial Canceled 🐐

We wrote yesterday about a memorial that was being planned for Bob the goat. Well, those plans have been canceled.

Pawsitive Rescuers initially announced the tribute but faced backlash on social media, prompting the decision to refund donations from their GoFundMe campaign that had been set up to raise money for the memorial.

Bob, who died during a relocation effort in August, had become a favorite among hikers. His remains have been returned to the city and we’ll see what they do with them. If anything at all.

Bye Bye Vehicle Safety Inspections 🚗

Starting January 1, motor vehicle safety inspections are no longer required for non-commercial vehicles in Texas as part of the annual registration process, following the passage of HB 3297 signed by Gov. Greg Abbott.

However, vehicles in El Paso County must still pass emissions inspections before registration.

Inspection stations report results in real-time to the Texas DPS system, but drivers are advised to bring a copy of the passing inspection report to avoid delays.

The state has implemented new fees to replace the safety inspection program as well. All non-commercial vehicles are subject to a $7.50 inspection program replacement fee, included during registration.

Newly purchased vehicles (current or preceding year models) pay a $16.75 initial replacement fee for two years.

Emissions test fees vary by county; in El Paso, tests cost $11.50 at inspection stations, with an additional $2.75 fee included at registration. Electric-only vehicles are exempt, while gasoline vehicles aged 2–24 years must comply.

Things To Do

Have An Important Event Coming Up? 👗

The 35th Annual Winter Days of Remembrance Bridal, Quince, and Sweet 16 Expo will take place on Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025, at the El Paso Convention Center.

Attendees can explore over 70 vendors, enjoy fashion shows showcasing the latest trends, and enter to win giveaways, including a $600 gift certificate for one lucky Quince or Sweet 16.

Tickets are $5, with proceeds benefiting the Paso Del Norte Center of Hope, and children 12 and under are admitted free. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.

This event is the largest of its kind in the Southwest, offering inspiration, expert advice, and exclusive deals for unforgettable celebrations.

Want To Support Local Busineses? 🍉

The Cowtown Boots Farmers Market returns on Saturday, January 18, from 10 AM to 3 PM at 11401 Gateway, El Paso, TX 79936.

Enjoy a pet-friendly atmosphere with fresh produce, homemade goods, and local vendors like Bodega Loya.

This family-friendly market is a great way to support the community while enjoying delicious treats and unique finds.

Calling All Plant Lovers 🪴

Join the Sergio Troncoso Library Branch Plant Exchange on Friday, January 17, at 2 PM. Bring a plant, take a plant, and learn about propagation techniques.

This free event is a great opportunity for plant enthusiasts to grow their collections and share tips with fellow gardeners. The address for the library is 321 Alameda Ave, El Paso, TX 79907 if you are interested.

Weather

Friday

⬆️ 61 ⬇️ 38 | ☀️💨 | 1% chance of rain

Saturday

⬆️ 60 ⬇️ 29 | ☀️ | 0% chance of rain

Sunday

⬆️ 50 ⬇️ 29 | ☀️ | 0% chance of rain

Sports

UTEP Men’s Basketball 🏀

Ahamad Bynum’s clutch two-point basket with two seconds left secured a 72-70 victory for UTEP over Liberty on Thursday at Liberty Arena in Virginia.

UTEP improved to 13-4 overall and 3-1 in conference play, rebounding after last week’s loss to New Mexico State.

The game was tied at halftime, with five lead changes in the first half. The Miners now hold a 3-1 all-time record against Liberty. The Flames failed to get a final shot off before the buzzer, sealing the win for UTEP in a dramatic finish. Go Miners!

UTEP Women’s Basketball 🏀

The UTEP women’s basketball team fell to Liberty 75-64 on Thursday at the Don Haskins Center.

Missing key players Portia Adams (suspension) and Dunja Zecovic (season-ending injury), UTEP struggled offensively, shooting 32% in the first half.

Falling behind by 14 in the second quarter, the Miners (8-7, 1-3 CUSA) fought hard, narrowing the gap to 67-60 late in the game, but Liberty (11-6, 4-1 CUSA) maintained control to secure the win.

Despite the loss, UTEP showed resilience and areas to build upon as they prepare for their next matchup on Saturday with Adams returning to the lineup.

Thank YOU!

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