Good morning, El Paso. It’s Friday which means the weekend has begun. We have tons of things for you to do and places to watch the big game!

In today’s Border City Buzz:

• New Chief On The Border

• Make Your Own Candle

• Places To Watch The Super Bowl

Let’s get to it.

Around Town

More Border Tunnels Found 🕳️

Authorities on both sides of the border are on high alert in Juárez, investigating possible smuggling tunnels near the Chamizal area. After a suspected tunnel was inspected near the Stanton-Lerdo Port of Entry, officials returned for a second search at "los hoyos" early this morning.

Mexican agencies, including the National Guard and Department of Defense, worked alongside U.S. officials from the DEA, FBI, and Border Patrol to assess the situation.

While no confirmed tunnel has been found leading into the U.S., CBP believes another could exist nearby. Officials say intermittent operations will continue in the coming days.

New Chief On The Border 👮

The El Paso Border Patrol Sector has a new leader—Walter N. Slosar has stepped in as interim chief, replacing Anthony "Scott" Good. Slosar, who previously served in El Paso from 2021-2022, returns from his role as Big Bend Sector’s chief.

With decades of experience, including leadership roles in Guatemala and Panama, Slosar emphasizes border security and collaboration with law enforcement at all levels. He’s no stranger to El Paso, having first served here in 1998.

His appointment marks another shift in leadership, with Good moving on after nearly a year at the helm. Expect more updates on border policies under Slosar’s leadership.

El Paso Zoo Lions Choose Winner 🦁

The El Paso Zoo is letting its resident mountain lions, Franklin and Scout, call the Super Bowl winner—again! On Saturday at 1 p.m., they’ll choose between two treat-stuffed, helmet-shaped piñatas, one for each team.

Fans are invited to wear their favorite NFL gear and watch as the big cats make their pick in this wild tradition. Last year, they correctly predicted the Chiefs’ victory—can they go two-for-two?

No rigged plays here—the zoo promises both piñatas are filled with identical treats. Join the fun and see if El Paso’s furry forecasters get it right again!

Things To Do

An Evening Of Art 🎨

Celebrate creativity at Artspace Gallery’s First Friday Art Exhibition! Enjoy a night of stunning artwork, meet local artists, and soak in the inspiring atmosphere.

Plus, if you're an artist, you can showcase your work with no fees or commissions. Admission is free—don’t miss this chance to support El Paso’s art scene!

Date: February 7, 2025
Time: 5:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M.
Location: Artspace Gallery, 601 N Oregon St, El Paso, TX 79901
Admission: Free

Night Of Ghostly Chills 👻

Ready for a night of ghostly chills? The Ghosts of The Camino Real Spirit Walk takes you through the historic streets of San Elizario, a town so old (est. 1598!) that its ghosts have had centuries to settle in.

Walk past centuries-old chapels, art galleries, and even the infamous jail Billy the Kid broke into—yes, you read that right. Guests have reported whispers, shadowy figures, and even an unexpected ghostly touch.

Date: February 7, 2025
Time: 8:00 P.M. - 10:00 P.M.
Location: San Elizario Placita, 1500 Main St., San Elizario, TX 79849
Admission: $25

Looking For A Friend? 🐕‍🦺

Looking for a new best friend? Head to the Adopt Me Event and find your perfect four-legged companion! The City of El Paso Animal Services is hosting a day filled with tail wags, sloppy kisses, and FREE dog adoptions.

Every dog is ready to go home, complete with vaccines, a microchip, and a fresh start. Plus, it’s all part of the American Rescue Bowl, a celebration of adoption and responsible pet ownership. Whether you're looking for a jogging buddy or a couch potato, there’s a rescue pup waiting just for you!

Date: February 7, 2025
Time: 10:00 A.M. - 2:30 P.M.
Location: Pet’s Barn, 1900 N Lee Trevino Dr, El Paso, TX

Local Wine Tour 🍷

Toast to love and adventure with a Valentine’s Wine Tour! Hop on board for a scenic, pay-as-you-go experience through three boutique wineries along Highway 28.

Sip on locally crafted wines, enjoy live music, and soak in the gorgeous views of pecan orchards and cotton fields. Each stop offers one hour to sip, snap pics, and unwind.

Wine tastings are not included and range from $5-$20. Preregistration required!

Date: February 8, 2025
Time: 12:00 P.M. - 5:30 P.M.
Location: Mesilla Valley Wine & Brew Tours, 750 Sunland Park Dr, El Paso, TX
Admission: $60
Contact: [email protected] | (575) 323-1825

Make Your Own Candle 🕯️

Warm up your winter vibes by creating your own handcrafted, spice-infused candle! Choose your favorite seasonal spices, decorate your jar, and add a personal touch to your masterpiece. All supplies are included, and you’ll leave with a candle as unique as you!

Online reservations required.

Date: February 8, 2025
Time: 1:00 P.M. - 2:30 P.M.
Location: Artspace Gallery, 601 N Oregon St, El Paso, TX
Admission: $25 per candle
Reserve your spot: www.diyworkshopep.com

Weather

Friday

⬆️ 80 ⬇️ 46 | ☀️ | 0% chance of rain

Saturday

⬆️ 82 ⬇️ 46 | ☀️ | 0% chance of rain

Sunday

⬆️ 80 ⬇️ 51 | 🌤️ | 0% chance of rain

Live Music & Entertainment

Friday 2/7

• The Rebellion – Four80's Sports Bar and Grill – 8:00 P.M. - 12:00 A.M.

• Down by Fore – Brick & Tap – 8:00 P.M. - 12:00 A.M.

• Open Mic Comedy Night – Cinco Bar & Patio – Sign-ups at 8:30 P.M., Show at 9:00 P.M.

• Aftermath – Cactus Owl – 9:00 P.M.

• Open Mic Night – Margin Notes Bookbar – 7:30 P.M.

• Fastback 6T7 – Kings X Bar – 9:00 P.M.

• Summer Rose – Two Five Dive Bar – 9:00 P.M. - 1:00 A.M.

• Locomotion Style Band with Jordan Taylor – La Wheela Bicycle Place – 7:00 P.M. - 10:00 P.M.

• Maria José – El Paso County Coliseum – 8:00 P.M. (tickets)

• Joshua Lucero – 1922 Bar – 7:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M.

• Jordan Taylor – 1922 Bar – 10:30 P.M. - 12:30 A.M.

• Caleb Wilbourn – Iron Gnome – 7:00 P.M. - 10:00 P.M.

• King Octopus – Rosa's Cantina – 8:00 P.M. - 12:00 A.M.

• The Retroz – Mountain Star Brewing Company – 7:30 P.M. - 10:30 P.M.

Saturday 2/8

• Jesus Castillo – 1922 Bar – 7:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M.

• Sangre Gitana – 1922 Bar – 10:00 P.M. - 12:00 A.M.

• Night Bird – Rosa's Cantina – 8:00 P.M. - Midnight

• Karaoke Night – Mountain Star Brewing Company – 7:00 P.M. - 11:00 P.M.

• Darling Mikki – A Willie Good Dive Bar – 5:00 P.M.

• The Tip – Cactus Owl – 9:00 P.M.

• The Gozano Brothers – Four80's Sports Bar and Grill – 8:00 P.M. - 12:00 A.M.

• West Texas – Texas Stagecoach Saloon – 9:00 P.M. - 1:00 A.M.

Sunday 2/9

• VENOM INC, SALEMS CHILDE, The Car Bombs, Ojo Malo, The Stink Bugs – Rockhouse Dive Bar – 6:30 P.M.

• Wind Symphony Concert – Fox Fine Arts Recital Hall – 2:00 P.M. (tickets)

Sports

Superbowl Watch Parties 🏈

If you are looking for a place to watch the big game, I made a list of the best bars and restaurants in town that will be showing it:

• Rad Retrocade West

• Maria’s Cantina

• Bowl El Paso

• Cinco Bar & Patio

• Cactus Owl

• B-17 Bombers Oyster Pub

• Brick & Tap

• Crown & Eagle

UTEP Football Schedule Announced 🏈

• Week 1 (Sat., Aug. 30) – at Utah State

• Week 2 (Sat., Sept. 6) – UT Martin

• Week 3 (Sat., Sept. 13) – at Texas

• Week 4 (Sat., Sept. 20) – ULM

• Week 5 (Sat., Sept. 27) – LA Tech

• Week 6 (Wed., Oct. 8) – Liberty

• Week 7 (Wed., Oct. 15) – at Sam Houston

• Week 8 (Tue., Oct. 28) – at Kennesaw State

• Week 9 (Sat., Nov. 8) – Jax State

• Week 10 (Sat., Nov. 15) – at Missouri State

• Week 11 (Sat., Nov. 22) – NM State

• Week 12 (Sat., Nov. 29) – at Delaware

Thank YOU!

Thanks for reading Border City Buzz. If you enjoyed the newsletter, please share it here with your family and friends!