Alicia Sanchez named new Presidio County auditor 

PRESIDIO COUNTY — On Wednesday morning, the Presidio County Commissioners Court celebrated Alicia Sanchez and her new role as Presidio County auditor. Sanchez has served the county for about five years, and has been promoted from the position of assistant auditor. 

The county auditor works for the district judge –– not the commissioners court –– to provide a balanced and unbiased snapshot of the county’s finances. “As auditor, my doors are always open,” Sanchez promised. 

Presidio Police Department Chief Erik Rodriguez resigns

PRESIDIO — At Tuesday’s meeting, Presidio City Council accepted the resignation of Chief Erik Rodriguez, who assumed his role about a month ago. Rodriguez was the department’s third chief since October 2023 and resigned citing personal matters. Despite the departmental upheaval, Mayor John Ferguson was hopeful that the department would eventually find its new groove. “We do feel very strongly that we want to keep our police department intact,” he said. 

The city is currently advertising for a new chief of police. Those interested can contact City Hall: 432 229 3517. 

Alpine High School 1970s reunions set for July 4, Homecoming planned for October 9

ALPINE — The former students of Alpine High School who attended during the 1970s will be gathering at Kokernot Municipal Park (corner of Fighting Buck Ave and E Marfa Ave ) from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 4, 2024. Bring something to drink and a picnic, and enjoy visits with old AHS Bucks friends. Attendees will also organize a meeting place to gather to watch fireworks after dark.

The AHS homecoming is planned for Wednesday, October 9, through Saturday, October 12 (pending school board approval). This is Columbus/Indigenous Peoples Day weekend. Planned are a bonfire, the Bucks football game, the AHS band halftime show, and other gatherings in Alpine that weekend as well for a time together with all the overlapping classes of the 1970s. Other possible activities currently in planning are a dance, tours of both the 1970s high school buildings, climbing A Hill, and most importantly, spending time with old friends from AHS days.  

Alpine Police Department blood drive 

ALPINE — The Alpine Police Department will be hosting a two-day blood donation drive on:

  • Tuesday, May 28, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 
  • Wednesday, May 29, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Donations will be at the Bloodmobile unit at the police station, 309 W. Sul Ross Avenue in Alpine. 

The department reminds the community that every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs a blood transfusion. Donors should try to complete a Vitalant Fast Track online at www.donors.vitalant.org and screenshot or print out the QR code given on completion.

Those with questions may contact Police Chief Darrell Losoya at 432-837-3486 or losoya.police@cityofalpine.com.

Sen. Blanco to host 2nd annual ‘Beat the Heat’ senior box fan giveaway in Presidio   

PRESIDIO — On Thursday, Texas Sen. César Blanco will host his second annual “Beat the Heat” senior box fan giveaway event in Presidio. This giveaway will assist economically disadvantaged senior citizens in coping with extreme temperatures during the summer months and help reduce electric bills. Eligible seniors have been preselected in collaboration with the Presidio Senior Citizen Center. This giveaway is not open to the public.   

“Far West Texas’ extreme summer temperatures pose a significant danger to our vulnerable seniors,” Blanco said. “I am excited to provide essential relief from the heat and financial strain and ensure the well-being of our community’s elders.”