June 2023

Over the past week, Texans have been talking about the underfunding of Big Bend area schools. This reporting has shed light on the persistent underfunding of rural, remote schools in Texas and the devastating impacts this has on rural students and communities. These articles have also illuminated Texas legislative leaders’ failure to lead on behalf of public schools, despite this being a core part of their constitutional duties. When the state refuses to lead, we will fill that void.

“Customer: A person who pays for all your vacations, hobbies, rent, food, car notes, and gives you the opportunity to better yourself.” — Unknown “Good afternoon, Elegante Suites reservations in Abilene,” the voice on the phone said. “How can I help YOU today?” Heavy emphasis on the word, ‘you,’ made me smile.

Sally Ann LaBeff Farrer, 82, longtime resident of Alpine, passed away on June 5, at Big Bend Regional Medical Center. Sally was born in Alpine on August 24, 1940, and was the firstborn child of Ray and Frances LaBeff.

Jared Austin Strait, ”J-rod” or “Str8er”, of Enfield, NY, formerly of Lansing, NY, passed away tragically on June 9, as a result of injuries sustained in a car accident in Texas. Jared was born on March 25, 1998, to James and Janet Strait. He is the brother of Joshua (Alexandria) Strait and a longtime partner of Nina Drake. One of his biggest fans, Grandma Gloria Carlyle, “GmaG”, of Newfield, NY, enjoyed many of our baseball excursions from Lansing to West Texas.

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The Alpine Lion’s Club held their end of month business meeting on Tuesday, May 30 at Big Bend Telephone. Lion Mark Young led the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a stirring account of local news by Lion Jim Westermann.

Each semester, Sul Ross recognizes students who maintain a grade point average of 3.3 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Undergraduates enrolled in at least 12 semester credit hours, or more are eligible. Graduate hours do not count towards being named to the list.

ArtWalk Alpine is celebrating their 30th Anniversary with a “Pachanga Party” fundraiser. This fundraiser will be held on Saturday, June 17 at 7 p.m.

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WEEK Alpine Humane Society Pet of the Week is Quill. Quill is the perfect companion to sit by your side on the porch as you read or relax. This twoyear- old Shepherd mix is sweet and calm and a very good boy. Quill came in with his brother, Rocket, who is bigger and more high-energy but also a good boy. You can meet this pair at the Shelter.