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After two months since originally being discussed at the Fort Stockton city council meeting, the Springhirst Hotel renovation project once again appeared on the city council agenda at the group’s regular meeting on April 27.

West Texas County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas awarded Pecos County Judge Joe Shuster the Official of the Year for 2021. It was presented to him at the West Texas Conference in Odessa on April 21. The West Texas Association represents 118 counties of Texas. The President, John Nanny, of Irion County presented the award. Courtesy Photo

Get ready for the roar as bikers from across Texas descend on the Big Bend for a long weekend of West Texas fun. Bikers themselves, Ole Crystal Bar owners Amy and Levi Hardy recently announced they will host a motorcycle rally based in Alpine for Thursday through Sunday, May 6-9.

In the short-term, the border crisis in Texas will inevitably get worse before it gets better heading into the summer months. But, Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23) hopes his Security First Act bill will help the situation trend in a positive direction in the future.

A meeting the candidates forum was held at the Large Community Hall in Rooney Park in Fort Stockton on April 15. Fort Stockton Mayor Chris Alexander, mayor candidate MaryAnn Terrazas White, city councilman Ruben Falcon, and city councilman Paul Casias each spoke at the meeting. Each candidate was able to introduce themselves and speak on topics they want to address if they get re-elected or elected. Following introductions, each candidate took questions from the audience in attendance. Fort Stockton attorney Albert Valadez was the curator at the event. To see the complete video of the event, visit the Fort Stockton Pioneer Facebook page. Photos by Nathan Heuer

Fort Stockton Police Chief Robert Lujan, right, and Assistant Police Chief Ernesto “Net” Velazuez, wore their specially made blue badges on April 21 near the Fort Stockton Pioneer Office. Lujan and Velazquez had the badges specially made for the recognition of Autism Awareness Month. “It’s something interesting to keep in gauged with the community. That way they know that we know, and we care,” Lujan said. The police chief added that each individual officer can purchase the badge from Badge and Wallet – the company that makes the department’s badges. The badges costed approximately $150 apiece. Photo by Nathan Heuer

The City of Fort Stockton Gas Department this week began replacing cast-iron gas lines on Hornbeck Boulevard with stateregulated poly pipe. As of now, they will be replacing 19,000 feet of four-inch underground pipe, and the project is expected to last two months.

How many of you are like me and are trying to start some healthy habits in this spring? Whether you’re trying to save money or eat better, packing a healthy lunch can help you do both. Salad is a common go-to option for people trying to eat better, but not all salads are created equal. Now that spring is here plan to have more salads in your meal planning.