October 2025

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Early voting began Monday across Texas with voters deciding the fate of 17 proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution, as well as local races for city and school board, bond measures, and tax proposals. The Houston Chronicle reported that many of the propositions intend to lower property taxes for homeowners and businesses. There are two proposed changes to the homestead exemption.

The Board of Directors of the Bechtel Educational Grant is pleased to announce the Fall Semester recipients of the grant, with $1000 awarded to each student. The Bechtel Educational Grant is awarded each Fall and Spring semester to Sul Ross undergraduate students who graduated from a high school (or received a GED) in Brewster, Presidio, or Jeff Davis County and maintain at least a 3.0 GPA.

Governor Greg Abbott named Kelly Rowe as chair of the Commission on Jail Standards. Additionally, the Governor appointed Joe Fauth and Richard Kirkpatrick for terms set to expire on January 31, 2031, and January 31, 2027, respectively. He reappointed Patricia M. Anthony and Monica McBride for terms set to expire on January 31, 2031. The Commission establishes standards for the care and treatment of county prisoners, the construction, maintenance, and operation of county jails.

The Brewster County Elections office has released the polling locations for the November 4 Texas Constitutional Amendment election. All early voting from now until October 29, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., will take place at the Judge Val Clark Beard Office Complex at 204 N. 7th Street. Voters may also cast an early ballot on October 30 and 31 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the same location.

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The Alpine High School varsity crosscountry team traveled to Tornillo last Thursday to compete in the District 4-3A championship. Both the boys’ and girls’ teams were successful, compiling enough points to advance to the Regional competition in Lubbock on Monday, October 20.

Enrique Rodriguez Monclova, affectionately known as Castro, passed away on October 10, 2025, in Alpine. Born on February 24, 1947, Enrique lived a life filled with service, love, and dedication to his family and community.

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For three decades, those who love the history and archaeology of the Big Bend region have gathered at Sul Ross State University to share research, publications, artifacts, and opinions. The fascinating story of this region has been unfolding through this annual collaboration during a twoday conference on the university’s Alpine campus.