Over the past weekend, the University of Texas Permian Basin’s Students in Philanthropy (SIP) made a significant contribution to the local community by donating $7,394 to the Permian Basin Rehab Center. The generous donation was presented during the center’s telethon, showcasing the students’ dedication to community service and philanthropic efforts. SIP, a branch of the Abell Hanger Foundation, selects its members through an application process that highlights the importance of community connection and a commitment to charitable giving. This initiative allows students to actively...…Over the past weekend, the University of Texas Permian Basin’s Students in Philanthropy (SIP) made a significant contribution to the local community by donating $7,394 to the Permian Basin Rehab Center. The generous donation was presented during the center’s telethon, showcasing the students’ dedication to community service and philanthropic efforts. SIP, a branch of the Abell Hanger Foundation, selects its members through an application process that highlights the importance of community connection and a commitment to charitable giving. This initiative allows students to actively...WW…

Our photographer recently embarked on a visual exploration of Smithville, Texas, a town immortalized by the iconic film “Hope Floats.” From its charming Main Street to the quaint local haunts, each photograph in this series pays homage to the cinematic legacy that has put Smithville on the map. Through the lens, experience the timeless allure of the town’s architecture and streetscapes, as well as the palpable sense of community and nostalgia that permeates every corner. Join us on a journey through Smithville, where reality and reel life intertwine in a captivating display of small-town...…Our photographer recently embarked on a visual exploration of Smithville, Texas, a town immortalized by the iconic film “Hope Floats.” From its charming Main Street to the quaint local haunts, each photograph in this series pays homage to the cinematic legacy that has put Smithville on the map. Through the lens, experience the timeless allure of the town’s architecture and streetscapes, as well as the palpable sense of community and nostalgia that permeates every corner. Join us on a journey through Smithville, where reality and reel life intertwine in a captivating display of small-town...WW…

Update: Jon has been found. He is back on duty at APD. Abilene, Texas – The Abilene Police Department is seeking the community’s assistance in locating their missing K9 officer, Jon. The beloved four-legged member of the force was last seen in the vicinity of East South 15th and Martin St. Described as a loyal and dedicated member of the APD, K9 Jon’s disappearance has sparked concern among both law enforcement officials and residents alike. With his keen sense of smell and unwavering loyalty, Jon has played an integral role in numerous operations, aiding in the apprehension of suspects and...…Update: Jon has been found. He is back on duty at APD. Abilene, Texas – The Abilene Police Department is seeking the community’s assistance in locating their missing K9 officer, Jon. The beloved four-legged member of the force was last seen in the vicinity of East South 15th and Martin St. Described as a loyal and dedicated member of the APD, K9 Jon’s disappearance has sparked concern among both law enforcement officials and residents alike. With his keen sense of smell and unwavering loyalty, Jon has played an integral role in numerous operations, aiding in the apprehension of suspects and...WW…

A Storied Past Meets Modern Luxury at the Historic Hotel Settles Nestled in the heart of West Texas, the historic Hotel Settles reopens its doors, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the 1930s intertwined with the comforts of modern hospitality. Built in 1930 by Will R. and Lillian Settles following a prosperous oil discovery, the hotel initially boasted 150 rooms, a restaurant, and a pharmacy, standing as the tallest building between El Paso and Ft. Worth. Its construction was a testament to early 20th-century ambition and elegance, designed by renowned architect David Castle. However,...…A Storied Past Meets Modern Luxury at the Historic Hotel Settles Nestled in the heart of West Texas, the historic Hotel Settles reopens its doors, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the 1930s intertwined with the comforts of modern hospitality. Built in 1930 by Will R. and Lillian Settles following a prosperous oil discovery, the hotel initially boasted 150 rooms, a restaurant, and a pharmacy, standing as the tallest building between El Paso and Ft. Worth. Its construction was a testament to early 20th-century ambition and elegance, designed by renowned architect David Castle. However,...WW…

The Hudspeth County Sheriff’s Department is currently showcasing a piece of local and automotive history—a 1951 Ford F-6 wrecker still owned by the Ellison family. Photographed by David Flash of the Big Bend Times, this classic wrecker was lovingly transformed from a basic chassis into a fully operational tow truck by Tom D Ellison and his father Duncan in the 1950s. Today, maintained by Tom’s son, Roger Ellison, the wrecker serves as a historical exhibit at the sheriff’s department, symbolizing the enduring legacy of the Ellison family’s ingenuity and the broader history of Sierra Blanca.…The Hudspeth County Sheriff’s Department is currently showcasing a piece of local and automotive history—a 1951 Ford F-6 wrecker still owned by the Ellison family. Photographed by David Flash of the Big Bend Times, this classic wrecker was lovingly transformed from a basic chassis into a fully operational tow truck by Tom D Ellison and his father Duncan in the 1950s. Today, maintained by Tom’s son, Roger Ellison, the wrecker serves as a historical exhibit at the sheriff’s department, symbolizing the enduring legacy of the Ellison family’s ingenuity and the broader history of Sierra Blanca.WW…