May 2025

FROM THE PULPIT

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At this moment in an ongoing treatment of “lectionary” Scriptural passages that flesh out what it means to be an Easter people (pls. note the purposive use of the present tense more and more) we turn to a Scriptural lesson not chosen for study in 2025 but [being] the preeminent model for our, as we are those Easter people, experiencing an appearance of the Risen Lord and the resultant commission we receive therein. That passage, chronologically taking place late on Resurrection Sunday according to Luke’s gospel, is generally known as the Walk to Emmaus (Luke24:13-35). Described by the unmatched New Testament translator and commentary author William Barclay as one of the world’s truly immortal short stories, the Walk to Emmaus reveals to us 1) how in our lostness we at first fail and then come to recognize the Risen Lord, even though we have been constant believers if not disciples, and 2) how the experience renews and redirects us. In the middle of the century preceding the last (20th) century before this still young 21st century the famous newspaperman and sage Horace Greeley famously advised a protégé seeking to break in to what is now known as journalism, “Go West, young man,” go [into the West].

Middle School Golfers End Season on a High Note

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The Fort Stockton Middle School golf team wrapped up their season on Saturday, May 3, in Andrews with smiles, progress, and plenty to be proud of. Led by Coach Enissa Sanchez, the Panthers and Prowlers spent the season sharpening their swings, strengthening their mental game, and representing Fort Stockton with heart on courses across the region.
The Fort Stockton Middle School golf team wrapped up their season on Saturday, May 3, in Andrews. Courtesy Photo

Panther Baseball Wraps Up Season After Hard-Fought Playoff Battle

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The Fort Stockton High School Panther Baseball Team wrapped up their 2024 season over the weekend with a valiant effort in the Bi-District round of the playoffs. Taking on the Canyon Randall Raiders in a best-ofthree series held in Lamesa, the Panthers gave it their all, but ultimately fell short in back-to-back games on Friday and Saturday.
The final score of 3-2 might not have gone Fort Stockton’s way, but it didn’t reflect how close the contest truly was. The Panthers showed poise and grit, hanging tough against a Randall team that came into the series riding a five-game win streak. It was a tough loss, but the boys from Pantherland made the Raiders work for every run. Courtesy Photo

Tearing Down to Rebuild

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The echoes of cheers, the rhythm of marching bands, the pounding of cleats on turf, and the collective roar of Panther fans under the Friday night lights — these are the memories woven into every beam and bleacher of Panther Stadium. But now, as of Monday, May 6, those echoes begin a new chapter.
The district’s Maintenance and Operations team carefully began the process before the first machine ever touched the concrete. They salvaged pieces of the stadium’s legacy—bleachers, signage, and fixtures—many of which will be repurposed and placed throughout the district. It’s a thoughtful nod to the history and memories held within those stands, where generations of Fort Stockton students, families, and fans gathered. Photo by Tristian Barragan

Sul Ross State Battles Eagles

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ALPINE — The Sul Ross State University baseball team (3-45 Lone Star Conference, 4-46) lost 17-3 to Oklahoma Christian (13-35 LSC, 14-36), Sunday at Kokernot Field. The Eagles scored eight runs over the first four innings to effectively sealed the game. For Sul Ross State, senior Estevan Ortiz and junior Chris Ulloa had two hits each. Junior Noah Tofan (1-4) gave up eight hits, eight runs with seven earned, walked four and struck out one in 3.3 innings. Sul Ross State has finished the 2025 season.
Sul Ross State Baseball has concluded the 2025 season. Courtesy Photo

ARREST REPORT

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Editor's note: It is important to note that an arrest should not be considered evidence of guilt, all defendants are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The following list is provided by the Pecos County Sheriff's Department.

PCMHD Community Engagement

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Pecos County Memorial Hospital District (PCMHD) continued its community outreach with a series of initiatives aimed at improving trauma care and celebrating the contributions of healthcare workers and senior citizens. PCMHD recently hosted a Rural Trauma Team Development Course, welcoming Dr.
The PCMHD team brought smiles (and snow cones!) to local nursing home residents and staff. A sweet way to show appreciation and spread a little sunshine.