December 2025

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In Far West Texas, many traditions run as deep as the desert horizon, and few are as treasured as the Biscocho. These small, subtly sweet cookies have long been a staple at holiday gatherings, weddings, quinceañeras, and just about any occasion where family and celebration come together. Their familiar aroma of spice and sweetness often signals that something special is happening.

One of my favorite things to see as the holiday season begins is the shift we make to a focus on togetherness and community. Groups of people that may have otherwise gone through the day without coming together are now gathered to sing with a church choir or share a meal. This seasonal shift reminds me that our desire for connection is not just a holiday phenomenon, but a fundamental part of who we are. It’s a shame it takes so much effort to step away from daily distractions and recognize the importance of being present with one another when we were created for community from the very beginning.

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The Alpine High School girls’ varsity basketball team logged one of its busiest, most ambitious weeks of the young season, traveling 515 miles to Mesquite for the Clay Cooley Real Texas Hoopfest from December 4-6. The Lady Bucks were one of the only 3A programs in the field and made the longest road trip of the 18 competing schools for the girls’ division, drawing larger 4A and 5A opponents throughout pool and bracket play.

The 2025-26 season continues to test the resolve of the Alpine High School boys’ varsity basketball team. After a hard-fought win against San Elizario High School, the Bucks’ undefeated streak ended Tuesday night with a lopsided loss to Midland Greenwood, but the grind of tough nondistrict matchups promises to leave them sharper for district play.