July 2026

Sul Ross doctoral program acknowledges our first promise

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When Sul Ross Normal College was approved to open in 1917, the legislature did something more than authorize an institution of higher education; it offered an acknowledgement that came with a promise: That acknowledgement: One of a state’s functions is to serve its citizens with an educational infrastructure tailored and equipped to understand and be responsive to their values, perspectives, and priorities.
Sul Ross doctoral program acknowledges our first promise

Jesus“Chuy”G. Vega

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In Loving Memory of Jesus “Chuy” G. Vega Jesus “Chuy” G. Vega, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, entered into eternal rest on June 22, 2026, in Alpine. Born in Terlingua on May 21, 1946, Chuy lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to his family, and an unwavering willingness to help anyone in need.
Jesus“Chuy”G. Vega

Granddaughter with Alpine roots accepted to Naval Academy

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The granddaughter of Robert LaFarelle, a native of Alpine, and his wife, Thelma, advised the Avalanche that Alice LaFarelle of Midland was accepted into the United States Naval Academy Class of 2030. She was inducted into the Class of 2030 on June 25, marking the beginning of a rigorous six-week indoctrination program in Annapolis, MD called Plebe Summer.

Texas Capital Highlights

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Texas first state to mandate Bible reading in school The State Board of Education gave final approval last week to a new required reading list for every grade level and also passed a rewrite of the state’s social studies requirements for kindergarten to eighth grade, the Austin American- Statesman reported. Both plans include Biblical concepts, essentially making the state the first in the nation to mandate the teaching of Christianity in public school classrooms.

Don’t knock it, dump it to celebrate the Fourth

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A lot has changed in the 250 years we’ve officially been a country. Today is the anniversary of the day that America voted for its freedom from England. In 1776, the 13 colonies’ Continental Congress, their governing body, voted to end England’s rule. Two days later, on July 4, 1776, the day America celebrates its Independence Day, the Declaration of Independence was officially adopted, and laid the cornerstone of our country.
Don’t knock it, dump it to celebrate the Fourth

Cowboys sit third in wins, fourth overall in Pecos League action

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Of the three divisions in the Pecos League, the Alpine Cowboys are leading the Mountain Division South with a 19-11 record. They currently sit three games behind the Trinidad Triggers of the Mountain Division North, and one game behind the Garden City Wind, also in the Mountain Division North, and the Dublin Leprechauns of the Pacifi c Division in terms of games won, but the percentages tell a little bit different story.
Reese Weaks prepares to hurl a slider to Homeplate during a home game earlier in the season. Photo by Kara Gerbert