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Miguel Esteban Ortiz, a beloved husband, son, and friend to many in West Texas, has passed away. He was 40
Born in San Antonio, Miguel was a proud graduate of Sul Ross State University. He excelled in his career as a cook, a profession that allowed him to share his passion for flavors and culinary art with all who had the pleasure of tasting his creations.
His love of cooking was rivaled only by his hobbies: Miguel found joy in painting, crafting mini figurines, target shooting, and fishing. He was also an avid gamer; he cherished the time spent with friends, immersing himself in virtual adventures and sharing tales of triumph and laughter.
A talented musician, Miguel could often be found strumming his guitar, lifting the spirits of those around him. He had a special bond with his loving wife and high school sweetheart, Anna Maria Rodriguez, and together, they relished the joy of attending concerts, creating lasting memories entwined with music.
Miguel was a friend to all and possessed a remarkable ability to connect with people. His open heart and welcoming spirit meant that anyone who met him quickly became a close friend. He adored his dogs and cats and took every opportunity to share his love for life’s simple pleasures.
He is survived by his devoted wife Anna, his two parents, and three siblings. He also leaves behind cherished nephews and nieces.
In celebration of Miguel’s life, a public viewing was held earlier today and a Rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. (MONDAY). A funeral mass will be celebrated in his honor tomorrow (TUESDAY) at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church.
Miguel’s earthly journey will conclude with cremation.
Though we grieve the loss of Miguel Esteban Ortiz, we find solace in the beautiful memories he created and the love he shared with all of us.
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The City of Alpine has declared an emergency due to the infrastructure failure of a municipal water well on the west side of town. The emergency measures approved on Friday allow the city to move forward with repair or replacement efforts without having to go through a bidding process.
During Friday’s meeting, Mayor Catherine Eaves said the failure of Roberts #3 – a water well in the Sunny Glen neighborhood – presents an immediate threat to public health and safety and is straining the overall water supply.
EAVES1:“I want to be very clear: This is a serious situation, but it is one we are prepared to manage.” (0:08)
Since Friday’s meeting, the city said crews and officials have continued to monitor the well and believe QUOTE “the situation may be more complex than originally understood.”
Beyond installing a new pump to Roberts #3, which dates back to the late 1950s, the city is considering contingency plans, including hauling water in trucks and using another well that came out of service several years ago. City officials described the measures as “band-aids” and Eaves said it’s likely the city will need to drill a new water well, which could be a costly process.
EAVES2: “So we are looking at options so that we can make sure the westside continues to have plenty of water, and hopefully keep the boil water notice off the table and just to do what we need to do.” (0:12)
Due to the well failure, the city has put in place mandatory water restrictions for residents and businesses in hopes of reaching a 20% reduction in daily water use.
Under the restrictions, watering is only allowed between the 6:00 and 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 to 10:00 p.m., and residents and businesses are prohibited from using sprinkles, irrigation systems and washing sidewalks, driveways or paved surfaces.
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City officials will meet tomorrow (TUESDAY) for the next city council meeting and are expected to provide the latest updates on repairing the water pump.
They meet Tuesday at 5:30 at the council chambers.
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Big Bend Regional Medical Center is looking for artists who would want to display their art at the hospital.
The hospital’s looking for works ranging from pictures to sculptures. The artwork can be displayed for a limited time, or donated to the hospital.
For more information contact Regina Terrazas at 432-837-0254.
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Later this month, Leadership Big Bend will host a volunteer event at Sul Ross.
The volunteer event will give the tri-county area an opportunity to connect with and get involved in different nonprofit groups across the region. You’ll learn about all the ways you can volunteer and support your community.
The volunteer event will be May 13, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the University Center on the campus of Sul Ross.
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Also this month (MAY), join Front Street Books at the Ritchey for their first ever book fair for adults.
The event will feature live music, book picks from Front Street Books staff, and special drinks from the Ritchey.
Tickets for the event are $35 in advance and $45 at the door.
Admission includes a Front Street Books swag bag, one staff pick from a featured books table, a drink, and one raffle entry.
You can get your tickets at Front Street Books in Alpine.
The book fair takes place Saturday, May 23 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at The Ritchey.
This has been your local and area news report for KVLF 98.7 FM, 1240 AM and KALP 92.7 FM
Local news can be found on our website at bigbendradio.com.