News

Abbott: Flooding death toll now at 135 Gov. Greg Abbott said late last week that the statewide death toll from the catastrophic flooding in the Hill Country stands at 135, and the number of persons missing has dropped to three.

The Native Plant Society of Texas, Big Bend Chapter, is planning a workday on Saturday, July 26, from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Alpine Public Library. The plan is to clear organic material, breaking the topsoil, mixing in amendments, and moving some of the buffalo grass, among other tasks. Those interested in volunteering their time should bring gloves, a shovel, rake, pick, hat, and plenty of water.

The 14th annual music festival brings 65 performances to Far West Texas. Viva Big Bend returns this weekend, bringing five days of live music to Alpine and surrounding towns from July 23 to 27.

The Buck Band is set to kick off its 2025 marching season with summer rehearsals beginning Monday, July 28, running Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Saturday from 3 p.m.

Brewster County Commissioners Court held a special meeting on Tuesday, July 15, to begin reviewing the proposed 2026 county budget. All commissioners were present, with Brewster County Judge Greg Henington presiding over the meeting.

Calan Ahrens is likely most recognizable from the kitchen at the Big Bend Livestock Show each January. Ahrens, a 2010 Alpine High School graduate, also represented Alpine as a Texas FFA Officer representing the West Texas area after his graduation and while attending Texas A&M University-Kingsville on a rodeo scholarship.

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Brewster County elections administrator Melissa Kay Bergstrom was arrested and indicted in the 394th District Court for the misapplication of fiduciary property. The indictment was filed on July 11, and Bergstrom was arrested on Monday.

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