Future of Viva El Paso could be up in the air

The future of Viva El Paso is up in the air after KFOX 14 uncovers the association that puts on the show has plans to dissolve.

The recommendation comes after an informal study done by an attorney consultant.

"I'm not going to comment on that right now," said Luz Ramos, the president for the El Paso Association for the Performing Arts.

KFOX 14 spoke to Ramos briefly over the phone Friday afternoon. She wouldn't confirm she sent the e-mail.

"I would appreciate it if you would give us time to decide what direction we're going to take," said Ramos.

KFOX 14 was given an e-mail by an anonymous source. That e-mail was sent to board members and states the board will dissolve the EPAPA. The news isn't a surprise to everyone.

"In our conversations with EPAPA, even as recently as this week, we understand they're supposed to have a board meeting to discuss the future of the organization and how they're structured," said Brian Crowe of the El Paso Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Crowe and other community leaders were questioned by attorney consultant Frank Lopez. In the survey, they were asked their opinion of Viva El Paso.

"It's one of our star features of our summer series," said Crowe.

Crowe and all the others questioned agree the show must go on.

"Viva is presented mostly for local talent," he said.

Lopez's findings also include that all questioned agree the shows image has been tainted. KFOX 14 first told you Viva El Paso was having tax troubles in May. Then in June, KFOX 14 reported they lost their tax-exempt status after not filing taxes since 2002.

"Look at possibly different board members, I think there are roles for current members, but possibly get some new blood," said Crowe. "Folks that have a background in finance, people that have a background in public relations, backgrounds in marketing."

Crowe said what is happening behind the scenes will not affect the curtain going up.

"We've already confirmed Viva will be a part of our summer series this summer at McKelligon Canyon," said Crowe.

Ramos doesn't sound as confident.

"There's no plans not to have it," she said.

"We've already confirmed Viva will be a part of our summer series this summer at McKelligon Canyon. It's just a question of what name or what organization will be the presenter," said Crowe.

Crowe says should the EPAPA dissolve, no organizations at this point have come forward to take over the production of Viva El Paso. Ramos wouldn't comment on her future with the organization.