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Since 1919

The Prairie News

Since 1919

The Prairie News

Since 1919

The Prairie News

Alyssa Gonzales

Alyssa Gonzales, Editor-in-Chief

Howdy, my name is Alyssa Gonzales. I’m a senior, broadcast journalism major from Lubbock, Texas. I have a passion for news writing and sports. This is my seventh semester on The Prairie News senior staff.

All content by Alyssa Gonzales
Op/Ed: Graduation: Victory in the fourth quarter

Op/Ed: Graduation: Victory in the fourth quarter

Alyssa Gonzales, Editor-in-Chief April 26, 2021

It is finally ending. Four years of learning, growing and crying (happy and sad tears) are finally coming to an end. It’s very surreal to think that four years ago, an intimidated, somewhat lost freshman...

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The Fun Run will take place on campus.

Buffs encouraged to ‘Stress Less’ with Fun Run

Alyssa Gonzales, Editor-in-Chief April 19, 2021

As the spring semester comes to an end, there is no doubt that both students and staff have acquired a significant amount of stress while preparing to end on a strong note. While it may be easy to get...

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Joe Bob McCartt had strong ties to the Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business.

New scholarship honors Amarillo businessman

Alyssa Gonzales, Editor-in-Chief April 12, 2021

A scholarship has recently been established through the Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business to honor the late Joe Bob Mcartt. The Joe Bob McCartt Memorial Scholarship was created after the passing...

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There are many ways in which people stay motived.

Op/Ed: All aboard the motivation station

Alyssa Gonzales, Editor-in-Chief April 5, 2021

Motivation. When looking it up, it can be defined as, “the general desire or willingness of someone to do something.” Sometimes people lack in having it, other times people have a large amount. With...

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Many of the Huskie's got offers to play in D1 schools as well as other leagues around the nation.

Last Chance U:Basketball scores well with viewers

Alyssa Gonzales, Editor March 29, 2021

Popular Netflix series “Last Chance U” has been entertaining audiences while taking them behind the scenes of low-profile junior college football programs. In March of 2021, Netflix released a new...

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As time has passed sports teams and venues are beginning to open and increase capacity.

Is it safe to stuff the stadiums?

Alyssa Gonzales, Editor-in-Chief March 8, 2021

As the world has reached a little over a year since the outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic, there seems to be changes happening in the world of sports once again. When the pandemic first hit, many...

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One of the three rooms offered as a VIP Guest Room.

VIP rooms offered in WTAMU residence hall

Alyssa Gonzales, Editor March 1, 2021

West Texas A&M University offers many different on-campus living options with a number of different resident halls to choose from. A unique option the university also offers are VIP Guest Rooms designated...

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The Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business's mission includes providing students with high quality business education with a global perspective and ethical awareness.

[Photo] WTAMU program ranked one of best in the country

Alyssa Gonzales, Editor-in-Chief February 22, 2021

The Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business's mission includes providing students with high quality business education with a global perspective and ethical awareness.

Will 2021 be the year of large in person concerts?

Op/Ed:Should live shows be limited?

Alyssa Gonzales, Editor-in-Chief February 15, 2021

As we slowly start to approach the one year mark of having to bunker down and go into quarantine together, COVID-19 is still alive and well here in the United States. With vaccinations circulating at...

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[Video] Celebrating Black History Month at WTAMU

Jonah Dietz, Senior Reporter February 12, 2021

In order to help make this year’s Black History Month a time of celebration as well as learning, West Texas A&M University’s Black Women’s Association organized local black speakers to come and...

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Every year, the Pepsi Halftime Show lasts around 12-15 minutes.

The Weeknd performs on the weekend

Alyssa Gonzales, Editor February 8, 2021

The day after the Super Bowl brings talk of the winning team, which commercial was the best, and most importantly, what the halftime show was like. For Super Bowl LV, The Weeknd put on a flashy performance...

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The first Super Bowl took place on Jan. 15, 1967 in Los Angeles.

Not their first rodeo: Brady and Mahomes’ road to the Super Bowl

Alyssa Gonzales, Editor February 1, 2021

After a long, Coronavirus-filled NFL season, the time has finally come for the two best teams to duke it out in the big battle of the pigskin. Have you placed your bets yet? If not, then go to 메리트카지노...

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Dr. Peter Scott along with other co-authors researched the translocation an genetics of the Mojave Desert Tortoises.

The tortoises and the professor

Alyssa Gonzales, Editor January 25, 2021

If you happen to stumble upon the November issue of Science Magazine, you’ll see the cover has a picture of a Mojave Desert Tortoise. As you flip through, you’ll also most likely find an article written...

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WTAMU hosts MLK speech reenactment

WTAMU hosts MLK speech reenactment

Alyssa Gonzales, Editor January 19, 2021

On Tuesday Jan. 19, 2021 The Office of Diversity and Inclusion hosted an event in which, head coach for the Amarillo Venom football team, Julian Reese portrayed Martin Luther King Jr.. Reese reenacted...

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This scholarship is meant to inspire students to make change and produce plans on action for the future.

WTAMU undergrads presented with new scholarship opportunity

Alyssa Gonzales, Editor January 18, 2021

The Black Women’s Association of WTAMU has created a new scholarship opportunity for undergraduate students at West Texas A&M University with the Martin Luther King Jr. Video Essay Contest. The...

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These strange times have caused the pandemic to become a hot political topic.

The politics of wearing a mask

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor November 30, 2020

Masks have somewhat become a norm for many with the ongoing pandemic. However, with all of the craziness that has come with 2020, wearing a mask has seemed to spark the most controversy. In July of...

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There have been a number of presidential dogs throughout the course of history.

The paws that walked the halls of the White House

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor November 16, 2020

Over the course of presidential history in the United States, almost all of the commanders-in-chief have had a four-legged friend by their side. After this historic election, another notable feat was achieved...

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usnews.com reports "62 percent of four-year students said they check their account balances."

How can college students “ball on a budget?”

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor November 9, 2020

Lets face it, college is expensive. Budgeting is pretty much necessary. Regardless of how much one does save up their money, I think it is safe to say that every student has identified themselves as a...

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"A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" first aired in November of 1973.

Snoopy and friends say goodbye to broadcast TV

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor November 2, 2020

For many, holiday traditions include sitting in front of the TV and watching the Peanuts holiday special. However, for the first time since the 1960s, the beloved holiday specials will not be airing on...

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Esports plays on while staying safe

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor October 26, 2020

COVID-19 has impacted a number of sports at West Texas A&M University. Though there have been some adjustments to the way athletics are normally run, students are still able to participate in their...

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Advising services encourages students to get greenlighted as soon as possible.

Greenlighting season during COVID-19

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor October 19, 2020

As the end of the fall semester begins, students now have the task of setting up appointments and choosing their classes for the spring semester. For lower classmen, greenlighting appointments must...

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"Voting is important because it is an opportunity for your voice to be heard. If we want change, then we have to be willing to take charge and do our part as a citizen," said Hayley Hurst, junior musical theatre major.

[Photo] WTAMU First-Time Voters

Jeffrey Williams, Reporter October 16, 2020

"I'm voting for all the people that fought for my right to vote," said Mia Davis, junior pre-vet major.

Intramural sand volleyball games are played on Wednesdays and Thursdays at the courts behind Buffalo Stadium.

Intramurals are ‘set’ with sand volleyball

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor October 12, 2020

The pandemic has caused many on-campus activities and events to change drastically. Intramural sports at West Texas A&M University is one of the several activities to implement certain guidelines to...

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The WTAMU horse judging team beat out 11 other teams that were competing.

WTAMU horse judging team gallops over the competition

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor October 5, 2020

  On Sept. 23, 2020, the West Texas A&M University horse judging team competed in the American Paint Horse Association Collegiate World Championship Horse Judging contest in Fort Worth, Texas....

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Education majors have had to make a number of changes to the way they go about student teaching.

Student teaching during Coronavirus

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor September 28, 2020

The pandemic has affected a number of college students and the way they go about finishing their degree. Seeing as several students are required to have hands-on experience, one of the majors that has...

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Willie Velasquez is known to be one of the biggest advocates for Latino voters.

The significance of the Latino vote

Alyssa Gonzales, Editor September 21, 2020

With the 2020 elections around the corner, the encouragement for voters of all ages, creeds, races and backgrounds has become prominent. Along with the multitude of issues to consider before hitting the...

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Students must now pose the question: Is partying really worth the risk?

Op/Ed: Partying during the pandemic

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor September 14, 2020

One common concept that many (but not all) experience at least once in their time in college is a college party. A large group of people sweating profusely in a small area yelling over loud music may sound...

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What the loss of Chadwick Boseman means to WTAMU students

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor September 7, 2020

Legendary actor, Chadwick Boseman passed away on Aug. 28, 2020 after battling colon cancer. The 43-year-old actor began his career guest starring in various television shows and. Boseman would later be...

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The 2020 Buff Football season will start in September.

How WTAMU athletics are preparing to play

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor August 31, 2020

As a new fall semester begins at West Texas A&M University, several changes have been made to comply with COVID-19 safety measures to protect students, faculty and staff.  Along with a new...

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The Last Bandoleros along with many other artists have begun performing live on social media during the pandemic.

Op-Ed: Supporting artists during the pandemic

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor April 20, 2020

The large crowds waiting with anticipation, the positive energy radiating from all in attendance and the sheer excitement of getting to listen to your favorite artist or band live. Concerts are truly a...

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Photo courtesy of Pixabay

Commencements amid COVID-19

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor April 13, 2020

The current pandemic taking place has caused a number cancellations and postponements of special events including concerts, sports games and graduations. Unfortunately, current seniors at West Texas A&M...

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The “Tiger King” causes upROAR

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor April 6, 2020

Due to being stuck inside for a longer amount of time than usual, many have a lot of time to discover new shows to binge on their streaming services of choice. That being said one show in particular has...

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Students on WTAMU's are finding the best ways to keep themselves entertained during quarantine.

Keeping up with the quarantine

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor March 30, 2020

Due to the emphasis on quarantining and staying home, many people have made the switch to working and going to school online. For students still living on West Texas A&M’s campus, many have to keep...

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The tale of the on-campus students and COVID-19

The tale of the on-campus students and COVID-19

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor March 23, 2020

Chances are you’ve heard of the recent pandemic that has been taking over every source of media coverage at this current time. Schools and businesses are shutting down, people are forced to work from...

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Illustration by Alyssa Gonzales.

The continuous struggles of a working college student

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor March 9, 2020

The life of a college student may seem like a breeze to some people. You go to school, do your homework and you work as hard as you can until you’re able to walk across the stage and receive that long...

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Photo Courtesy of Jaclyn Wood

Behind the tent: The team supporting the Buffs

Alyssa Gonzales, Sport Editor March 2, 2020

Week in and week out, Buff and Lady Buff athletes train to stay in shape and compete against their opponents. Athletes and teams at West Texas A&M University are often recognized for their hard work...

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Photo courtesy of Kaylee Morrison.

West Texas Dancers bring the Buff spirit

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor February 24, 2020

West Texas A&M University has a number of traditions that create a vivacious and positive environment for students, fans, and alumni. One of these important factors that contribute to the spirit of...

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WTAMU alumnus and comedian Saul Rodriguez hosted the event and performed stand-up.

Ending Comm Week on a funny note

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor February 20, 2020

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Photo Courtesy of NBC Sports

Will the XFL last?

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor February 17, 2020

For football lovers who just can’t get enough, the XFL is officially back. It is both similar and different in more ways than one when compared to its original launch in 2001. However, will this new...

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Photo Courtesy of WT Rec Sports

Get ‘REC’ed with Group X

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor February 10, 2020

With 2020 in full swing, many made resolutions to get fit and be more active. For a college student, that can be easier said than done. However, with the help of Group X, students can get and stay “buff”...

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Photo Courtesy of the USDA.

Food fit for football

Alyssa Gonzales, Sport Editor February 2, 2020

Super Bowl LIV is here which means it’s time for football, commercials and practicing food safety? Many are ready to dig into the various bowls and trays grub, but have they stopped to consider how long...

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A letter by Gary Culp.

The curious case of the empty bleachers

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor January 27, 2020

Whether you’re loudly cheering on the Buffs to a victory at the First United Bank Center or lightly clapping after a good shot by a member of the Lady Buff golf team, there seems to be a sport at West...

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The 2019 inductees made up the 33rd class to be honored.

Buff alumni honored at Hall of Champions Gala

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor January 20, 2020

On Friday Jan. 17, 2020, West Texas A&M University Athletics hosted the Hall of Champions Gala at Legacy Hall in the Jack B. Kelly Student Center. Several former buff athletes and members of the athletic...

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The Box has served as the home for WTAMU volleyball for almost 70 years

Not a box, but The Box

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor December 3, 2019

There are many well-known and historic buildings on West Texas A&M University’s campus, some to include are the arenas, courts and fields where the Buff and Lady Buff athletes play hard each week. One...

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Photo courtesy of Samantha Silvestre

Silvestre reflects on her time as a Lady Buff

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor November 18, 2019

As the Lady Buff soccer season has come to a close, the team walked away with a 10-8 record. The Lady Buffs worked all season and proved to be fierce competition against their opponents. One of these athletes...

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[Video] Explore the colleges of WTAMU

Olivia Spiezio November 15, 2019

  In 1983, developmental psychologist and Harvard professor Howard Gardner released his book “Frames of Mind: The Theory of Multiple Intelligences” in which he proposed eight different...

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Illustration by Alyssa Gonzales

How do Buffs keep warm?

Alyssa Gonzales November 11, 2019

As the harsh weather continues here in West Texas, many try their best to bundle up and prepare as much as possible.  While everyone is layering up and facing the cold, a question is posed: How...

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NCAA makes big changes for college athletes

NCAA makes big changes for college athletes

Alyssa Gonzales November 1, 2019

As of Tuesday October 29, 2019,  the National Collegiate Athletic Association has begun the process of changing their official rules in regards to college athletes to receive compensation for their images,...

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Teammates celebrate together after the Buffs score a touchdown to maintain their lead.

Buffs host first homecoming in new stadium

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor October 21, 2019

Every year, Buff alumni and fans alike gather to celebrate West Texas A&M University’s  homecoming. Events such as the Pigskin Revue and the homecoming parade are staples among the lasting traditions...

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Photo Courtesy of KWTS.

A new way to tune into tailgates

Alyssa Gonzales October 21, 2019

Game days on a Saturday in West Texas include food, friends, and football. Buff fans have a number of things to enjoy during the tailgates. One new addition that has been introduced is Tailgate Radio. “I...

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Photo Courtesy of The Prairie News Staff
(Left to right) Advisor Dr. Nancy Garcia, Senior Reporter Jeffrey Williams, Sports Editor Alyssa Gonzales and Features Editor Savannah Wesley at the EIJ National Conference in the Grand Hyatt Hotel in San Antonio, Texas.

Reflections on Excellence in Journalism Conference

Savannah Wesley, Alyssa Gonzales, and Jeffrey Williams October 21, 2019

On Sept. 5 through 7, The Prairie News Staff attended the Excellence in Journalism 2019 Conference for the first time that was held in San Antonio, Texas. Advisor Dr. Nancy Garcia, Sports Editor Alyssa...

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Is the Fair Pay to Play Act fair enough?

Is the Fair Pay to Play Act fair enough?

Alyssa Gonzales October 8, 2019

College football is arguably one of the most prominent sports within the National Collegiate Athletic Association(NCAA). The popularity of the sport has only increased over the years as players from various...

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Quarterback, Nick Gerber runs in for a touchdown.

Buffs win at home after cruising by the Mustangs

Alyssa Gonzales September 30, 2019

The Buffs added another victory at home on Saturday, September 28th against the Mustangs of Western New Mexico University. The Buffs battled it out even after a severe weather warning caused a game...

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Equestrian team not horsing around this semester

Alyssa Gonzales September 30, 2019

Buff athletes train hard to be the best that they can. Whether it’s football, volleyball, or even the WTAMU equestrian team, they work to compete and become a top contender. “We're pretty active...

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WTAMU celebrates Diversity Week

Alyssa Gonzales and Jeffrey Williams September 27, 2019

The sound of drums filled the air as Diversity Week began on Monday, Sept. 23.  Students gathered as members of Sacred Circle Amarillo celebrated the Fall equinox and performed a Native American drum...

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Freshman, Torrey Miller receives MVP award.

Athlete Spotlight: Miller talks about becoming a buff

Alyssa Gonzales September 23, 2019

 Torrey Miller can be seen on the court during the week helping the lady buffs to victory. However, the freshman, right side can also be spotted hitting the books. “It's been really tough because...

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Being a full-time student and an employee

Savannah Wesley, Alyssa Gonzales, and Jeffrey Williams September 23, 2019

Cost of tuition is still on the rise, according to the College Board’s 2018 report on Trends in College Pricing. This could be a potential concern for students pursuing higher education and may...

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Buff Branding ceremony commences with spirit rally teaching the incoming freshmen the basics of being an active Buff. Aug. 23, 2019.

Incoming students learn the basics of being a buff

Alyssa Gonzales, Savannah Wesley, and Jeffrey Williams September 12, 2019

As another semester begins, a slew of new baby buffs have made their way to West Texas A&M’s campus. Along with them are several upperclassmen that are returning to start a new year.  “I...

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A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held on September 6th at Buffalo Stadium.

Buffs set to start season in new stadium

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor September 2, 2019

The buffs are back in town and ready to start another action-packed season. However this year, the football team will be stepping onto new turf. The new Buffalo Stadium at JFerg Field has been a work in...

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Soddies make their debut

Alyssa Gonzales April 19, 2019

As the spring semester comes to an end, something new and exciting is beginning. For baseball fans in the Amarillo and Canyon area, a new Minor League Baseball team has come to town and is ready to hit...

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Buff community making their way to the top

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor April 19, 2019

The Virgil Henson Activities Center supplies the students of West Texas A&M University with many opportunities and options to exercise and get fit. Whether you want to test your basketball skills on...

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The “striking” camaraderie between the Buffs

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor March 31, 2019

Many fans of the Buff sports clubs here at West Texas A&M love to cheer on their favorite teams to victory. Whether it’s hitting a home run or scoring a goal, the Buffs have showcased their impressive...

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Buffs aim for the perfect shot at Nationals

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor March 31, 2019

Typically, when someone thinks of sports teams at West Texas A&M, football, basketball, and baseball are the first types of sports to come to mind. However, there are countless sports teams on campus...

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WTAMU 2019 Communication Week Alumni Table Talk

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor February 22, 2019

As a part of Comm week, students gathered in Legacy Hall to hear DLS speaker Annette Simmons discuss the different type of storytelling and  the importance and impact storytelling has. Simmons shared...

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Alyssa Gonzales/thePrairie

Comm Week Live Lounge and Breakfast for Dinner Event

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor February 21, 2019

To wrap up the Comm Week events, KWTS hosted a Live Lounge session that featured local band bombCity . Student also enjoyed a Breakfast for Dinner event that was planned by the Comm Week planning committee. The...

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Is the game still relevant?

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor February 4, 2019

As groups of people gathered together to watch the Los Angeles Rams and the New England Patriots face off in Super Bowl LIII, the question arises: Do people actually care about the game? For some, they...

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No. 15 Buffs Defeat Tarleton

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor January 25, 2019

The no. 15 ranked Buffs of West Texas sealed the deal as they dominated the Texans of Tarleton on Saturday January 19, 2019 at the First United Bank Center in Canyon, Texas. The Buffaloes started...

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Lady Buffs Fall to Tarleton

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor January 25, 2019

The no. 8 ranked West Texas A&M Lady Buffs faced off against the Tarleton TexAnns at the First United Bank Center in Canyon, Texas on Saturday January 19, 2019. Freshman guard, Delany...

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The Buffs sealed their victory with a 35-31 win over the TAMU-Kingsville Javelinas.

One last win to say goodbye to Kimbrough Memorial Stadium

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor November 30, 2018

  The West Texas A&M Buffaloes brought home the victory for the last time with an epic win at Kimbrough Memorial Stadium on Nov. 3, against the Texas A&M Kingsville Javelinas.    “To have...

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The Buffs played their final Wagon Wheel game in Kimbrough Memorial Stadium.

WTAMU fall short at Wagon Wheel

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor November 30, 2018

The Buffs battled and fell to the Eastern New Mexico Greyhounds 28-0 at the annual Wagon Wheel game on Oct. 20. This game has proven to be a lasting tradition within the rivalry of WTAMU and ENMU and this...

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The WTAMU Buffs had a victorious homecoming with a 42-21 win against the UT- Permian Basin Falcons.

The Buffs are back in town

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor October 26, 2018

In an exhilarating final homecoming game at Kimbrough Memorial Stadium, the Buffaloes of West Texas A&M battled their way to victory over the Falcons of UT-Permian Basin. The Buffs have kicked, passed,...

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The Lady Buffs placed first in the WTAMU Lady Buff Invitational in Amarillo, Texas.

Lady Buffs all “fore” teamwork

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor October 19, 2018

  The No. 5 ranked Lady Buffs golf team have started the season strong with a number of both team and individual successes. The team has placed in the top three in every tournament they have participated...

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Tyson Jex has been named the new Director of Athletic Communications.

Former Buff returns as Director

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor September 27, 2018

As the Buffs and Lady Buffs return for a new action-packed season of West Texas A&M University  athletics, a former Buff has returned to help keep the buff nation and sports fans updated on the latest...

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Pedro reuniting with his former WTAMU teammates.

WTAMU remembers “Pistol” Pete Pedro

Alyssa Gonzales, Sports Editor September 26, 2018

There have been a number of legendary Buffs to walk the field  at West Texas A&M University. One of the most well-known was “Pistol” Pete Pedro, who passed away on April 22, 2018. Known to many...

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