The COVID-19 vaccination arrived in the Tri-County a month ago, and many of our residents have taken advantage of the vaccination. Many of our residents have received the second series with some discomfort that goes away after a few days, and others like me have had little or no side effects. I urge everyone to get the vaccine as soon as it’s available to you. It’s not mandatory, but hopefully the vaccine will slow this disease.

As of Feb. 2 our numbers were one hospitalized, 12 active cases, and eight deaths. These numbers fluctuate from day to day. Spring break is right around the corner with visitors coming to our area, so we must continue to wear our masks, wash and sanitize our hands, and continue to social distance.

We have had a decrease in the number of cases, and the Brewster County judge has signed off to increase hotel occupancy from 50% to 75%. Please note this is not due to the vaccination because it’s to early too tell what impact it will have on the virus. Testing continues to take place in Alpine and the surrounding areas, so take advantage of this free screening. The test results are usually available within 24 hours.

City elections for Wards 1, 3, and 5 will be held on Saturday, May 1. Filing for these positions will end tomorrow, Feb. 12.

A bill was introduced in the Texas Senate by newly elect Senator Roland Gutierrez to move Sul Ross State University to the Texas A&M umbrella. There will be a town hall meeting at the university this Saturday, Feb. 13, at 4 p.m. Texas Rep., Dist. 74, Eddie Morales will be present to explain this bill and others introduced in this Legislative session.

Stay safe in these trying times, and perhaps we can get to a new normality in how we live our lives.