August 2021

Manuel David “Chaluga” Carrillo, Jr., 52, of Alpine, Texas, passed away on Aug. 3, 2021, at his son’s home in Midland, Texas, surrounded by the love and support of his family.

Artha Leigh “Doodsie” Smith Eaton went to be with her Savior, family, and numerous friends on June 25, 2021, at the age of 90-½, as she would say. Doodsie was born to Chester Arthur Smith and Bethel Ruth Segrest Smith in Woodville, Texas, at exactly midnight on Oct.

The Big Bend offers some of the most spectacular and scenic views around, not only for visitors and tourists, but also for those who call this area home. While many enjoy hiking or exploring the terrain on the ground, there’s another choice for those who want to catch a bird’s eye view of some of the most beautiful country in West Texas.

U.S. Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23) joined fellow Texas lawmakers in introducing legislation to reimburse farmers and ranchers for damages and vandalism that occurred on their property due to the illegal immigration crisis.

The Lady Bucks played at the First Annual Coach Pancho Martinez Memorial volleyball scrimmage on Aug. 6 in Marfa. Here they line up in front of the Fort Davis Indians varsity team. The season officially started on Aug. 9 in Monahans. Avalanche photo by J.T. Maroney

Hummingbird migration is in full swing in the Big Bend, and the annual Davis Mountains Hummingbird Celebration will mark the tiny critters’ return. And although field trips have already filled, there’s still lots for bird lovers to see and do in Fort Davis.

How has your game recovered after a year off from COVID? My game has definitely enhanced since COVID. My last year in college was cut short by COVID so at first I was obviously very upset.

Since the team was formed in 2011, the Alpine Cowboys professional baseball club has reached the postseason every year in the Pecos League. The Cowboys secured their spot in the playoffs once again last week by way of a 4-2 record, which featured a 3-1 series win over the Tucson Saguaros – Alpine’s firstround playoff opponent.

Sul Ross State University rodeo athlete Ky Hamilton won “the daddy of them all” in bull riding at the 125th Cheyenne Frontier Days this past weekend. He went five for five, riding all three in Cheyenne, and he placed in Deadwood as well. In the photo, Hamilton riding at the Gem State Classic. Photo by Western Edge

Everything we know on this earth changes. Throughout our lives we change from youngsters to older adults. Physical abilities develop, and then begin to diminish. We move from place to place for careers. We make new friends and lose loved ones. And technology today is changing so fast it can be dizzying. Change is a constant.