News

GARDENER’S MAILBAG Dear Neil, How can I eliminate Mexican petunias? They are so invasive. A broadleaf weedkiller (containing 2,4-D) will kill a certain portion of them, but at some point, you may decide to rototill deeply and rake out as much of the root system as possible.

In Isaiah 43:1-2, we see one of God’s most assuring promises to His people. “When you pass through the water, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.”

I remember the time my son told me about missing some cows. He counted them on a Friday and the next Monday they were not all there. He talked to the neighbors but no luck. He found a gate open at one end of the pasture and after several days he finally located the cows. He talked to the owner of the land and got permission to get his cows. My son spent long hours and several days in the hot weather walking and searching for his lost cows. That incident reminds me of something in the Bible. When Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden it separated them from God and all mankind has followed, (Genesis 3:6-24, Romans 5: 12). The Bible says we are lost and without hope on our own, so we need help and that is why God had a plan to redeem us, (Isaiah 53:6, Romans 6:23). Jesus came to earth to seek and save that which was lost and make a way we could have forgiveness of our sins and a new relationship to God, (Matthew 18:11, Luke 15:4-7). It was by His sinless life, sacrificial death on the cross and His resurrection from the grave that we have the hope of a new relationship to and with God, (Romans 5:8-11, Luke 19:10). But our faith and hope must be in Christ Jesus and nothing less or more, (Romans 3: 21-24, 5:1&2).

MARFA – The Marfa Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the return of the 37th Annual Marfa Lights Festival, taking place over Labor Day weekend from August 30 to September 1. This beloved West Texas tradition will once again illuminate the Presidio County Courthouse lawn with live music, dancing, delicious food, and unique vendors from across Texas.

Fort Stockton is alive with history and heritage as the 3rd Annual Fort Stockton Barrio Fest gets under way! Starting September 13, the Fort Stockton Barrio Fest will feature a unique selfguided tour highlighting 21 key historical locations throughout the Barrio. As you stroll through the neighborhood, you’ll encounter posters at each significant site, each telling the story of a place that has shaped the history and culture of our community.

The Pecos County Senior Citizens Center will host its Labor Day potluck on Friday, August 30, at 12:00 noon. The meal will be barbecue brisket, donated by Oscar Gonzalez. Everyone is asked to bring side dishes or desserts. The Labor Day potluck is open to all Senior Center members and will be a great way to celebrate the upcoming three-day holiday weekend.

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Fort Stockton ISD’s new Athletics Field House is finally taking shape, marking a significant milestone in the district’s commitment to enhancing its facilities. Funded by the community-approved bond, this project reflects the district’s dedication to providing top-tier amenities for its students, athletes, and the broader community. After extensive planning and numerous design revisions, the project has officially broken ground, with visible progress underway.

The Middle Pecos Groundwater Conservation District’s board met for a regular meeting and a public hearing regarding the proposed budget and tax rate for the fiscal year, ending September 2025, on Monday, August 19 at 10 a.m. During the regular meeting, the board discussed the July report from the treasurer.

The Fort Stockton Film Society will screen “The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance” on Saturday, August 24, at 7:00 p.m. as a tribute to Christiane Gonzalez.