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THE SOLAR ENERGY INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION AUSTIN - Existing and expected utility- scale solar, wind, and battery storage projects will contribute over $20 billion in total tax revenue — and pay Texas landowners $29.5 billion — over the projects’ lifetimes, according to new data released by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), Conservative Texans for Energy Innovation (CTEI), Advanced Power Alliance (APA), and the Texas Solar + Storage Association (TSSA). Over 75% of Texas counties are expected to receive tax revenues from either wind, solar, or energy storage projects.

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YOUR GUIDE TO LOCAL PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO Your guide to local places to go and things to do! If you have an event for our Do Something! listing, please e-mail litzy.rodriguez@ fortstocktonpioneer. com January 28 West Texas VA Health Care System at the Specialty Clinic 8 a.m.

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has revealed that agricultural producers can soon sign up for the 2025 coverage year of several key safety-net programs. Applications for Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) will be accepted from January 21 through April 15, while enrollment for Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) runs from January 29 to March 31.

Early Monday morning, several Fort Stockton residents and businesses awoke to cold rooms and offices, a problem caused by an issue several miles outside of town. With colder weather still ahead, there was concern that the small community may not be fully prepared for the energy demands as everyone adjusts their thermostats.

Austin - Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick today announced Senate committee assignments for the 89th Texas Legislature, naming Senator César J. Blanco (SD29) to four powerful committees: Business and Commerce, Health and Human Services, Natural Resources, and Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs. Senator Blanco will also continue his critical work on the Texas Sunset Commission, a role he was appointed to in 2024. These assignments position Senator Blanco to elevate the voices and priorities of El Paso and West Texas in shaping Texas’ future.

The Fort Stockton Community Theatre (FSCT) is kicking off its 2025 season with Mary Chase’s classic comedy Harvey, sponsored by The Rea Charitable Trust and Edward Jones. The production, presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, opens Friday, February 7, and runs through Wednesday, February 12.

Local food enthusiasts and home cooks have a new reason to refine their culinary skills while making friends. The Pecos County Dinner Tonight Cooking Club, which gathers monthly for themed meals and recipe exchanges, is currently welcoming new members who are interested in both cooking and socializing.

A well-earned career advancement has led to a historical moment for Pecos County law enforcement. On January 1, Sergeant Abby Ramirez was officially promoted to Chief Deputy, the first woman to make such a move in the long history of the Sheriff’s office.

On Tuesday, January 28, the Fort Stockton Public Library will host a special musical event featuring the acclaimed duo, Kessa Mefford and Kristina Cook. Sponsored by the H.