Opinion

“The true purpose of the arts education is not necessarily to create more professional dancers or artists. It’s to create more complete human beings who are critical thinkers, who have curious minds, who can lead productive lives.”

Last fall, Sul Ross State University received an impressive $7.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education, a signifi cant win for higher education and regional development.

Agencies, universities seek $24.6 billion in new funding The Texas Senate’s chief budget writer said state agencies and higher education institutions have requested nearly $25 billion in funding as the legislative session gets underway. State Sen. Joan Huffman, R-Houston, told The Dallas Morning News that the requests for new money reflect the growing functions and purposes of state agencies that serve the public.

The storyline of 2024 could be about the negative impacts of Texas’ continued divestment in public education. While that’s undoubtedly true, especially in rural communities across the state, it would be an incomplete narrative.

“Thunder rolls And the lightnin’ strikes. Another love grows cold On a sleepless night.” ― Song lyrics by Garth Brooks A storm rages as I draft this column—rain, wind, lightning, thunder.

Once again, another year has flown by. Halloween marked the second anniversary of my official start as managing editor for the Alpine Avalanche.

“We’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet, for auld lang syne.” ― Robert Burns, “Auld Lang Syne” That 1700s Scots poem set to familiar music is often used to mark the end of something. In our culture, usually, another year is “for (the sake of) old times.” “Auld Lang Syne” became a U.S.

Why should the government be on the hook for natural disasters? The national news over the weekend was full of stories about congressional action on a bill to prevent a partial government shutdown. The Senate passed a compromise bill approved earlier by the House.

As 2024 comes to a close, it is a great time to reflect on the tremendous progress and accomplishments made by the City of Alpine over the past year. This has been a year of growth, service, and collaboration, and I am proud of what our city has achieved. Working hand-in-hand with the City Council, staff, and our community, we have laid the groundwork for a brighter future while continuing to provide essential services to our residents.

In the heart of West Texas lies Alpine, a small yet vibrant community that thrives on its deep sense of unity and resilience. I answered the call when the Alpine Volunteer Fire Department needed strong leadership. Taking over as fire chief in the middle of 2023, I stepped into a critical role with determination and a clear sense of purpose. My dedication, with the help of the rest of the members, has already begun to leave a lasting impact on the department and the broader Alpine community.