January 2024

Amidst the vast landscapes of West Texas, a beacon of hope is shining bright as the Children’s Advocacy Center of the Big Bend (CACBB) proudly unveils Charity Thrift, a thrift store with a purpose. To support child victims in the Big Bend by closing the financial gap between grant contributions that allow this non-profit to service the children of the Big Bend area.

Nicolas Hurt is a talented guitarist, film producer, and music instructor at Sul Ross State University, and the Museum of the Big Bend will host the artist for a free showing on Friday, February 2. The museum, located on Alpine’s Sul Ross State University campus, is thrilled to present an unforgettable evening.

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The Lone Star Cowboy Poetry Gathering will take place on the campus of Sul Ross State University February 15-17. This is a three-day celebration of cowboy poets, musicians, and enthusiasts from across Texas and beyond.

Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 small, diced onion 1 diced green bell pepper 6 garlic cloves, finely chopped or minced 2 pounds of ground beef 2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning 1 tablespoon paprika 2 teaspoons chili powder 1 tsp crushed red pepper Salt and pepper to taste 28 ounces tomato sauce 28 ounces canned diced tomatoes 2 cups of beef broth 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 2 bay leaves 2 cups dry elbow macaroni (optional) 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese (optional) Directions: Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, and sauté until soft.

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HEAD OVER MEALS What comes to mind when you hear the word goulash? For myself, it’s two different dishes, although both hold almost identical similarities except for a single ingredient. Lately, I’ve found myself with a craving for this hearty dish.

Comparison is the enemy of progress. Sometimes, I can’t help but feel discouraged about my guitar-playing skill level after watching my favorite instrumental rock musician shred an epic solo in a performance video online. There’s a canyon between where I am and where I want to be. The reason this can be so damaging to progress is that we forget we are seeing the product of years of practicing and perfecting the skill. The comparison also puts too much attention on the end result and not enough on what you can do today.

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The Alpine High School tennis program has gained a new coach for the upcoming season, and Lauren Martinez is looking forward to this Spring. Practice has been in full swing already and the Bucks’ first scrimmage is tomorrow against the Crane Golden Cranes.