January 2026

Despite an up-and-down season thus far, after last Thursday’s walloping of the Anthony Wildcats (1-23), the Alpine Lady Bucks, now (8-16), sat at 3rd (2-2) in the district standings after falling earlier this month to district rivals Kermit and Presidio. The Wildcats lost to the Lady Bucks in February of last year, but it was nothing like the domination of this year’s Lady Bucks’ squad, where they allowed only three points on the board for their opponents, sweeping them in a rousing 84-3 victory.

After the Alpine Fightin’ Bucks varsity’s (15-8) loss to Presidio (19-9) on January 20, by a scant 7 points, Alpine sits 2-1 and in second place in district play, leading everyone but the Blue Devils of the border before they took on district rival, the Kermit Yellowjackets (13-9) yesterday.

Our beloved aunt Angie Martinez entered into eternal rest on December 31, 2025. She was 92 years old. Angie was born to Patricio Martinez and Esther Sotelo Martinez on June 1, 1933, in Alpine. She attended Centennial School, followed by Alpine High School. A graduate of Sul Ross State University with a master’s degree in education, Angie enjoyed working with her cousin Frank Sotelo at Foothills Food Market. After these endeavors, she

“It’s not the destination, it’s the journey.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882) American writer, poet, philosopher, and lecturer While putting these words together on Saturday, I was keeping an eye on the weather. Admiring nature’s icy artwork.

When Sul Ross State University officially launches its first Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership this fall, it marks far more than a new degree program. It marks a watershed moment in the university’s institutional identity and its role as a catalyst for educational and community leadership across West Texas.

The Brewster County Commissioners met for their regular meeting on Tuesday, January 27, at 9:30 a.m. in the commissioner’s courtroom. Precinct 3 Commissioner Ruben Ortega was absent, and Precinct 4 Commissioner Mo Morrow was delayed after someone ran through his fence in Paisano Pass, where loose cattle posed a potential danger to motorists.

The Alpine ISD Board of Trustees held its annual school board trustees appreciation dinner last Wednesday, January 21, at 5 p.m. in the Alpine High School cafeteria before tackling district business in the band hall. Ag teacher Doug Fox and students prepared and presented the meal. Board trustees Josh Cross, Nicki Ahrens, and Joe Portillo were absent.

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For those who follow professional rodeo, and most especially team roping, the name Turtle Powell is likely quite familiar. Powell grew up in Alpine, the son of Richard Powell, a retired Ag teacher at Alpine High School, and mom, Linda Powell. He now calls Stephenville home with his wife, Molly, and his two children.

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