Opinion

More than a year after Alpine ISD Superintendent Dr. Michelle Rinehart first proposed a partnership with the City of Alpine to repair and refurbish Manuel Payne Field, the plan is finally moving forward.

Amount of state in drought increases again Near the end of March, 89% of the state was in drought, according to hydrologist Dr. Mark Wentzel with the Texas Water Development Board.

“Who was that masked man?” — AI One long-ago sweltering summer night in Seymour, Texas, a salesman sat in our living room. He wasn’t just selling books; he was peddling the concentrated wisdom of humanity, bound in majestic, burgundy volumes, gold-lettered with “Encyclopedia Britannica.” For his closing pitch, the door-to-door entrepreneur leaned in with the confidence of a magician who possessed every secret of the universe.

In small towns across West Texas, every dollar matters, and so does every decision about how to invest in the future. Recently, our city approved approximately $920,000 in debt funding to support longneeded improvements to the community swimming pool, baseball fields, parks, and essential heavy equipment. While some may have raised questions about taking on new debt, the city’s financial position and longterm needs tell a clear story: this investment is both responsible and necessary. With a current debt load of under $1.9 million, the city is in an exceptionally strong position compared to many municipalities of similar size. Low debt means high borrowing capacity, and high borrowing capacity means the city can secure favorable interest rates and manageable repayment schedules. In other words, the city is using its strong credit position the way it was intended, to fund projects that benefit residents today and for decades to come. Municipal borrowing is not a sign of financial trouble. In fact, it is a standard, widely accepted tool used by cities across Texas to fund capital improvement plans. Roads, parks, water systems, emergency equipment, and recreational facilities are almost always financed through structured debt rather than cash on hand. This approach ensures that longterm assets are paid for over the same period that residents use them, rather than draining annual operating budgets. The projects funded by this borrowing package address needs that have been building for years: The community pool is more than a summer amenity. It’s a gathering place, a resource for families, and a point of pride. Repairs and upgrades ensure safety, accessibility, and longterm usability. Youth sports and outdoor recreation are cornerstones of rural life. Improving these facilities supports local families, encourages healthy activity, and strengthens community spirit. Reliable equipment is essential for maintaining roads, utilities, and public spaces. Replacing aging machinery reduces repair costs, improves efficiency, and ensures city crews can respond quickly to resident needs. These are not luxury projects; they are core investments in quality of life, safety, and the longterm vitality of the community. Delaying capital improvements often leads to higher costs down the road. Infrastructure does not fix itself, and equipment does not get cheaper with time. By acting now, the city avoids: escalating repair costs, emergency replacements at premium prices, safety risks associated with aging facilities, lost opportunities for recreation and community engagement. Borrowing today prevents larger financial burdens tomorrow. The city’s leadership has taken a fiscally responsible path: using low debt levels and strong credit capacity to fund improvements that residents will benefit from immediately. This is exactly how municipal finance is designed to work. Communities grow stronger when they invest in themselves. These projects will support local families, attract visitors, improve safety, and enhance the everyday experience of living here. For a rural West Texas town with deep roots and big pride, this is an investment in both heritage and future.

“The stars are not the limit; they are just the beginning.” — Buzz Aldrin, NASA astronaut and Lunar Module Pilot on Apollo 11, second human to walk on the Moon, July 20, 1969 Late Spring, 1961. Summer vacation loomed large in Mount Pleasant, Texas.

Dear Editor, Jesus Christ: Liar, lunatic, or LORD. The choice you make will ensure your eternal destiny.

The Museum of the Big Bend is looking forward to an exciting year of exhibits, programming, and new spaces. Current priorities at the museum include hiring a new Curator of Collections, hosting a variety of interesting and high-quality exhibitions, and more programming to help engage the tri-county area to visit frequently. Read along to learn about what is happening at the museum.

Dear Editor, I read with interest your article “BBRHD continues rural health advancements.” The article gives the false impression that the OBBBA is a net positive for rural healthcare. In an effort to partially offset the loss of revenue to the U.S. Treasury caused by the OBBBA’s enormous tax cut to millionaires and billionaires, the Republican-led Congress, which passed this bill, cut subsidies needed to fund health insurance premiums for low-income Americans under Obamacare and created new barriers for those seeking healthcare funding under Medicaid, resulting in millions of Americans being denied the health care they need. Those impacted include the elderly, disabled, and children.

“It’s a small town, son. And the news travels quicker than wheels.” —”Talking at the Texaco” song lyrics by James McMurtry Driving west for an Abilene wedding 20 years ago, I did something that still brings me joy: taking impromptu detours off the designated route.

Alpine has been my home for more than ten years. I continue to be amazed at the generosity and kindness of people and businesses in our community. During the last month, I have had to deal with the passing of my husband. Each expression of sympathy has special meaning to me.