May 2026

Fort Stockton’s CDL Renaissance

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For the first time in seven years, the roar of heavy engines at the RTC signifies more than just passing traffic; it marks the return of professional truck driver testing to Fort Stockton. CDL-Now Schooling, a new vocational school located at 106 S Main St, is leading a pioneer program to turn local and regional residents into certified commercial drivers, filling a critical gap in West Texas vocational training.
Two CDL-Now students are pictured waiting to start their tests on April 24. Pioneer Photo by Joh Covington

Advances High-Tech Campus Upgrades

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The Fort Stockton Independent School District Board of Education celebrated student achievement and advanced several high-tech facility upgrades during its regular meeting on Monday, April 27, 2026. Superintendent Gil-Rey Madrid opened the session by presenting the USDA Foods Challenge award from the Texas Department of Agriculture.
Last Monday, the FSISD board recognized Amistad Motors with the Order of the Panther. Gil Rey Madrid thanked the business for years of generous donations to district programs, stating that such community partnerships are vital to the district’s ability to serve its students. Pioneer Photo by Joh Covington

Casting call made for Extras

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For filmmaker Chris Hergert, the vast, open skies of West Texas are more than just a backdrop; they are a memory etched into his mind from a 'surreal' trip with his father 20 years ago. Now, Hergert is returning to the region to film his first feature-length project, a 'durational' film that aims to mirror the slow, intentional pace of real life.
Chris Hergert and Catherin Navarro are pictured in the Nelson St. Community Theatre last month while scouting for locations for Chris’ film debut, Sir Cowboy. Pioneer Photo by Joh Covington