January 2026

Standing next to a collection of books focused on the founding of the American democracy, Rev. Reames is proposing through the Ministerial Alliance the formation of a coalition of those determined to observe the 2026 year as the 250th anniversary of the republic through “deepening literacy” concerning the foundations of liberty. In conceptualizing how individuals and organizations might sponsor deeper understanding and appreciation of the literature we read, Reverend Reames noted two of the obstacles an educated citizenry faces: “I have recently seen reports that fewer and fewer of us are reading literature from cover to cover and that those who are responding that a Christian nation only needs to read from one book, the Bible, need to realize that Christians are scoring no better, and probably poorer, than those identifying as non-believers on Bible ‘quizzes.’ One of the quiz questions that believers get wrong more frequently than nonbelievers is, ‘Where does the axiom God helps those who help themselves come from?’.

I recall the time I was by myself when my pick-up broke down on a seldom traveled road. It was a nice afternoon and after walking a good distance I stopped to look back. I could see clearly the road that I had traveled. But when I turned around to see where I was going I could not see very far ahead or tell what the road had in store for me.

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Fort Stockton is transitioning from a period of “blackboard” dreaming into a phase of active implementation as city leaders work to revitalize the community through infrastructure and tourism. City Manager Frank Rodriguez said the city has moved past the idea phase and into a period of planning and execution meant to fulfill long-standing promises to the community.

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As Pecos County moves into 2026, local officials are trading “Year in Review” reflections for a suite of infrastructure projects designed to harden the county’s assets against both the West Texas elements and modern safety hazards. County Judge Joe Shuster, dedicated County Commissioners, and EDC Director Remy Ramos are overseeing a strategic shift toward long-term municipal investments, funded largely through industrial payments rather than local tax hikes.