August 2023

Dear Neil: I’m having one or two large limbs breaking out of my 100-year-old pecan trees every week. We’ve had no wind or storms. They just snap and fall. Is this being caused by the heat and drought?

WEEK Alpine Humane Society Pet of the Week is Binx. Binx says, “I’m an elite predator. I know my way around hunting my toys, and my sneak attacks are flawless. I gladly will show my sister and brother my strength as I wrestle them.” “Don’t get me wrong though - a cuddle with a small head rub is the purrrfect way to wind down after a workout. If you are a hunter, too, maybe we can compare our skills. Please come by the Shelter to meet me today!” Don’t miss Alpine Humane Society’s Burger Basket Fundraiser on September 15 at Skelton’s Runway. Contributing sponsors include Far West Texas Cattle Company, Porter’s, and Skelton’s Runway. Get a burger, chips, and a beverage for $12 and support AHS.

Sept 1 First Friday Song Swap, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The American Legion Auxiliary assembled feminine hygiene bags for Alpine ISD students and presented them to district nurse Gayla Owen, RN. Pictured are Auxiliary president Sara Herman, Gayla Owen, and Judy Stokes.

Mr. Vaughn Grisham’s Practicum in Graphic Design and Practicum in Commercial Photography classes toured Kokernot Field to get a better understanding of the history of the ballpark. Thanks to the availability of Hotel Occupancy Tax funds, these Alpine High School students will be creating an online showcase of the past, present, and future of Kokernot Field.

A grassroots group of citizens, who work under the moniker “Keep Big Bend Wild” became the recipient of the 2023 National Park Service (NPS) Excellence in Wilderness Stewardship Award, in the category of external partner. This award recognizes wilderness stewardship by an individual, team, or non-governmental partner. The group was honored for their contributions to rejuvenate wilderness designation efforts at Big Bend National Park (BBNP).

Alpine Lady Buck Hannah Juett attempts to kill the ball in tournament play against the Denver City Mustangs this past weekend at the Fillie Festival tournament. Photo by J.T.

Sammy Q. Morales, 58, of Alpine, passed away on Tuesday, August 22, in Fort Stockton.

No matter the size or nature of your endeavor, whether you’re planning a professional construction project or simply planting a tree in your backyard, reaching out to 811 is an essential step in protecting underground utilities and ensuring everyone’s safety. According to the Texas Railroad Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention program, “Texas has more miles of pipeline than any other state. In reports submitted to the Texas Railroad Commission in 2020, 27 % of pipeline damages are done by people digging with hand tools, such as shovels.” So, how can you get involved? It’s simple. First and foremost, always remember to contact 811 at least two business days before digging. When calling 811, homeowners, DIYers, and contractors will connect to the local One-Call Center which notifies the appropriate utility company of their intent to dig. This will allow professional locators to mark the approximate location of underground utilities on your property, with flags, spray paint or both, preventing accidental damage. Spread the word about safe digging practices to your friends, family, and neighbors.

“You can learn many things from children. How much patience you have, for instance.” — Franklin P.