News

As a service to the Big Bend community, the Sul Ross State University Meat Lab hosted a wild game processing workshop. Twelve participants gathered on Dec. 4 as Hip-O Taxidermy’s Caleb Hughes presented topics on field dressing and taxidermy considerations. Marfa Meats’ Nicole Tancik broke down a mule deer carcass as participants asked questions.

Christmas is around the corner, and one way people can share in the joy and spread holiday cheer is by taking part in a special event to celebrate Jesus’ birth with a live nativity. Karen McGuire has been directing and organizing it in Alpine for 30 years. The event is produced by Michael’s Mountain Ministry, named after McGuire’s oldest son who passed away in 1991.

The filing period for the March 1, 2022, primary ended Monday, and the field is crowded for the number one spot in Brewster County. The county positions up for grabs in the Nov.

Members of the Marfa ISD Ballet Folklorico Aztlan perform for an enthusiastic crowd at the Marfa Chamber of Commerce’s first annual holiday bazaar held on Dec 11 in front of the Presidio County Courthouse. The Chamber welcomed locals and visitors to get in the holiday spirit with vendors selling Christmas gifts, a holiday decorating contest, a visit from Santa, crafts for kids, and live entertainment. Avalanche photo by Roxanne Hill

Chances are that both locals and visitors have driven or stopped by the Alpine Visitor Center, whether on their way to other places in the Big Bend, or simply to enjoy all Alpine has to offer. The Alpine City Council approved a revamp for the center earlier this year, with funds coming from the hotel occupancy tax reserve and proposed for the 2022 budget.

For over a month the stores have been filling their shelves with Christmas decorations, candy, cards, and gift items. Everyday piles of catalogs filled with Christmas-themed clothing, dishes, decorations, and gift suggestions are delivered in anticipation of orders. Delivery in time for Christmas if ordered by a certain date is promised.

The filing period for the March 1, 2022, primary continues through Saturday, and potential candidates have until then to throw their hats in the ring. The 10 Brewster County positions up for grabs in the Nov.

Boquillas Port of Entry in Big Bend National Park reopened Nov. 17 after 20 months of closure. Those with a passport or other approved documentation may cross into Mexico to shop, eat, and explore south of the border.

A new superintendent to replace outgoing Alpine ISD Superintendent Becky McCutchen was on the forefront of the agenda during the Board of Trustees special meeting on Dec 2. Board Vice President Mary McCallister later told the Avalanche the board did not take any action after closed session, and a search will be underway for an interim superintendent.

Melissa DeLeon, Alpine: Yes - the tree, living room, and outside. Cesar Gallegos, Alpine.: I have not…lol.