Opinion

Thank You Thank you to the Alpine Avalanche and all who joined us on Saturday, Dec. 3, for Historic Alpine’s Second Annual Christmas Stroll, down East Sul Ross Avenue.

It’s common knowledge that City of Alpine has problems reading water meters and with the subsequent and often inaccurate bills. I reference your article, City discusses water billing issues, Alpine Avalanche, Nov. 17 this year. My complaint about the water portion of the monthly utility bill is not uncommon. The estimated amount used is many times the actual monthly usage. Last billing period I was billed 9,000 gallons, but used, according to daily meter readings, 1,200 gallons. The Oct. billing was similarly wrong.

“The problem with omens is that they never come with an illustrated pamphlet explaining what they mean.” — Dean Koontz, American author of suspense thrillers Could it have been an omen? I’m thinking maybe more of a sign. That one 9/16-inch box end wrench, my favorite, was nowhere to be found when I needed it Thanksgiving weekend.

Santa isn’t the only one making lists and checking them twice. Over the last seven months the City Council and City Administration have been busy making to-do lists based on the needs and desires of residents who have participated in Meet with the Mayor Sessions, City Council meetings, and who have reached out to us via phone, email, and social media. With the help of residents, a lot has been accomplished since May.

“Secondhand animals make first-class pets.” — Author unknown. I’m guessing a street-smart cat or a dog in the PR business.

Neighborhood life is at risk Talk of the proposed Chisos Brewery is, “What will it do for the City of Alpine?” The economic growth to the town will bring in tourism, etc. This is not the talk in the neighborhood.

Dear editor, I was delighted to see on page four of the Nov. 10 issue of the Avalanche, and in the Sentinel, Alpine Mayor Catherine Eaves’ excellent summary of the vital functions of local governments in our federal system along, with an outstanding letter to the editor by Karen Cantrell pointing out that all games have rules, and those involving winners and losers demand acceptance of the legitimate outcomes, certainly in the matter of elections. As one who spent much of his work life as a professor of Political Science significantly focused on those two topics, I have not seen them addressed more effectively. The efforts to engage more citizens in local public affairs, including participation in the development of a strategic plan for the city are also commendable if often frustrating.

Dear editor, I enjoyed learning in the Alpine Avalanche about local law enforcement officer, James Morris receiving a prestigious award. There is in fact another local law enforcement officer who recently received a prestigious award as well.

Alpine is a small town full of big opportunities. Similarly, Alpine ISD offers the best of an engaged, smalltown community with big hopes, dreams, and opportunities for our students’ present and future. Yes, rural public schools can, and do offer incredible learning experiences hundreds of miles away from large urban areas. Each of our campuses offers a wide breadth of learning opportunities taught with a depth of excellence that prepares our students for open futures.

“Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” — William Arthur Ward (1921—1994), American motivational writer It’s Thanksgiving week by tradition. I try to be thankful every day, and I do that sometimes by being grateful for my yesterdays.