The people of El Empalme woke up to news that fell heavily on the neighborhood's heart. The Community Board announced the cancellation of the 2025 Christmas parade, a tradition that each year brought families to the streets, children running behind the floats, and neighbors sharing, even if it was just a little. The statement explains that a regrettable incident of violence that occurred on November 19th—facts that directly affected members of the district—led to this decision. They asked for understanding and solidarity while the district seeks to heal and reclaim its spirit. The board stated: "we deeply regret what happened and prioritize the well-being of our people." In the early morning of November 19th, while the community was celebrating the National Football Team's victory over its rival from El Salvador, a man was murdered in a nightclub. The Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church will take the lead in putting up the Christmas tree and maintaining the decorations, because Christmas is also, in the end, comfort, unity, and hope in the midst of difficult times. The Community Board emphasized that its commitment remains firm: to promote peace, empathy, and support the community.
