When KVIA viewers tuned in to the evening newscast last week, they learned that familiar anchor Paul Cicala would be stepping away from the desk. The announcement was not made on air, and Cicala did not have an opportunity to deliver a formal goodbye during a broadcast. Instead, he later spoke with local media outlets to share the reasons behind his departure.

After years in primetime, Cicala confirmed he is stepping back to focus on his health and to help care for his father, who is battling dementia.

While some initially wondered if the move meant the end of his journalism career, Paul made it clear he isn’t ruling out a return to television news. Instead, he’s looking for a more traditional schedule. One that allows him to prioritize family and personal well-being.

Courtesy: Paul Cicala

Courtesy: Paul Cicala

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El Paso Will Always Be Home For Paul

I was able to catch up with Paul via text to wish him well and to ask what’s next for him. He shared with me that although this departure marks the close of another chapter in El Paso, a city he has called his second home, this isn’t goodbye. It’s simply a shift in direction.

“I am very appreciative to KVIA ABC-7 and the wonderful people I have had the chance to share the newsroom with,” Paul said. “El Paso will always be my second home. I can’t even begin to express the gratitude I feel for the great people of El Paso/Ciudad Juárez for treating me like their own and always being supportive of me.”

Paul said his pride in the Borderland runs deep. “I am as Chuco Proud as anyone who was born in this great city. Once a fronterizo, always a fronterizo.” He explained that returning to work in El Paso for a second stint was intentional and a decision rooted in connection and community.

As he looks ahead, Tucson, his hometown, is calling him back. With his father’s dementia progressing, Paul says pursuing career opportunities there makes sense. Still, he emphasized he will return to El Paso often.

Courtesy: Paul Cicala

Courtesy: Paul Cicala

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What’s Next For Paul Cicala?

In April, Paul will accompany his father on an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., recognizing his service as a Vietnam veteran and Purple Heart recipient. After being injured in Vietnam, his father spent nearly a month recovering at Fort Bliss’ Beaumont Hospital, making the trip a full-circle moment for their family.

“My father has always talked fondly of El Paso,” Paul shared, noting the similarities between Tucson and the Borderland: friendly people, strong patriotism, and undeniable border pride.

Even though his nightly presence on television may be paused, he says his commitment to service is not. As long as he is in El Paso, he plans to continue volunteering and giving back.

“Service above self,” he said.

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Gallery Credit: Courtesy: Ware Portraits