2012: Images Del Rio, TX
2012: Images Del Rio, TX
2012: Images Del Rio, TX
COm/dEL-RIO/Tx
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d e Pa r tm e nt s
6 Almanac 24 biz briefs 26 Chamber Report 27 Economic profile 28 See the City 34 Health & wellness 36 Local Flavor 38 Arts & Culture 42 Sports & Recreation 44 Education 47 Community profile 48 Through the Lens
ON THE COvER Diablo East portion of the Amistad National Recreation Area Photo by Brian McCord
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all or part of this magazine is printed with soy ink on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.
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Images Del Rio, Texas is published annually by Journal Communications inc. and is distributed through the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses. For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by email at info@jnlcom.com. FOR mORE INFORmATION, CONTACT: Del Rio Chamber of Commerce 1915 veterans Blvd, Del Rio, tx 78840 Phone: (830) 775-3551 Fax: (830) 774-1813 www.drchamber.com vISIT Images Del RIo, Texas ONLINE AT LIvAbILITy.COm/dEL-RIO/Tx Copyright 2012 Journal Communications inc., 725 Cool springs Blvd., suite 400, Franklin, tN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent. Member the Association of Magazine Media Member Custom Content Council
Almanac
springing to life
san Felipe springs is a set of 10 springs that constitute a major underground source of water for Del Rio and laughlin Air Force Base with the springs being the fourth largest network in texas. these springs produce about 90 million gallons of fresh water each day, which fosters Del Rios ability to support new residents and businesses. the importance of these springs to Del Rios livelihood is nothing new as they have been Del Rios primary source of fresh water for consumption and crop irrigation since the area was first settled. the springs are also home to a unique species of fish called the san Felipe gambusia.
Rough Riders
Fans of exciting, full-contact sports descend upon Del Rio each year to attend the George Paul Memorial Bull Riding Event. the event derives its name from the legendary bull rider George Paul, a native of Del Rio who holds the world record for riding 79 bulls consecutively and who won the National Finals Bull Riding Average at the 1968 RCA World Championship. this event showcases the thrilling action of professional riders holding on for dear life to bucking bulls that can weigh more than 1,800 pounds. this annual rodeo celebrated its 35th year of competition in April. For more information, visit www.georgepaulmemorialbullriding.com.
del Rio
Fast Facts
n del Rio typically welcomes scores of winter visitors each december. many of these winter residents have treated the city as their second home for years, escaping harsh northern winters. n amtraks sunset limited route between louisiana and california serves the del Rio area, and national park service guides from the amistad national Recreation area board the train to educate passengers about the areas natural and cultural heritage as part of the trails & Rails program.
Juno
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Rio Grande
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Comstock
Amistad Res.
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Whats online
Check out photo galleries and videos of Del Rio at livability.com/del-rio/tx.
Del Rio
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DEL TEX RV
Serving Val Verde County and surrounding areas for over 33 years.
Everything you need for your RV can be found in our RV Store including a kitchen sink.
Continuing the quality standards of excellence and customer service set by our founder, Jack Plyler in 1979.
del Rio
An Artistic Culture
Del Rio is home to several artistic outlets. A hub of arts in the community, the Del Rio Council for the Arts at the Firehouse Gallery is housed in the former building of the original firehouse, city hall and jail. there is now a dance studio, an art gallery and a pottery studio. For more, go to delrioarts.com. El Comit del Pueblos Casa De la Cultura is an organization that uses arts to enrich the lives of area youth by fostering self-esteem and cultural appreciation. lee Bunch studio Gallery is an art gallery that showcases paintings created with various media including watercolors, oils and pastels. see the paintings at www.leebunchstudiogallery.com. First Friday Art Walk gives fans a chance to meet with area artists and tour local art centers including the Firehouse and lee Bunch Galleries as well as the Casa De la Cultura.
Business is up in uptown
uptown Del Rio is enjoying a flurry of activity along veterans Boulevard thanks to new restaurants and retail stores. these businesses include Fuddruckers, Marshalls, Kirklands and Applebees. Fuddruckers, a texas-born fast casual dinning concept, has brought its signature hamburgers to Del Rio with its new location being the only Fuddruckers restaurant within 50 miles of the city. Marshalls new location in the Plaza Del sol mall brings Del Rio fashion at affordable prices. Kirklands brings Del Rio a home dcor supercenter that carries decorations for every part of the home from kitchen cabinets to lawn furnishings. Applebees offers Del Rio residents a casual dining experience with a variety of delicacies on the menu including steaks, sandwiches and salads. in addition to these businesses, uptown Del Rio also houses new hotels, which promise to draw tourism into the area. shoppers will find many more stores inside the Plaza del sol Mall, including Foot locker, the Childrens Place and hibbett sports.
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Reel Fun,
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Real Relaxation
FISHING, bIRdING, wATER SpORTS, HISTORy ANd mORE mAkE dEL RIO A GREAT pLACE TO vISIT
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ome people say Del Rio is for the birds bird-watching, that is. Others will tell you its for the fish. Or the ancient art. Whatever they like most about Del Rio, visitors agree: This is a destination that offers a vast number of ways to enjoy your leisure time. Its a very diverse community, with a variety of things to do, says Donna Langford of the citys Convention and Visitors Bureau. You can relax and do as much or as little as you please.
Lake Amistad for Outdoor-lovers Del Rios year-round tourist season lures visitors from around the world, and is especially popular with winter tourists fleeing snowier regions and summer vacationers. Perhaps the areas most famous attraction is Lake Amistad, straddling the U.S.-Mexican border, whose 854-mile shoreline is longer than the Texas Gulf Coast. The lake is known internationally as a rich fishing area, particularly for bass of several varieties.
Clockwise from top left: Whitehead memorial museum; diablo east section of lake amistad national Recreation area; birding at laguna de plata bird Watching sanctuary
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the Whitehead memorial museum comprises nine different buildings, each featuring an array of artifacts and period pieces that assist in preserving and honoring the history of del Rio and val verde county.
The lake is just a gorgeous area, Langford says. Families love to come here and stay at local campgrounds by the lake where they can fish and enjoy water sports like skiing, diving and boating. The area boasts nine campgrounds and three places where visitors can rent condo trailers, cabins and even houseboats. Del Rio also offers 1,500 reasonably priced rooms at 13 hotels, five by the lake, and the Indian Head Ranch bed-and-breakfast, overlooking the lake, which also offers exotic game hunting. del Rio for birding, History, Art and wine Now, about those birds. Del Rio is perfectly placed along the migration routes used by feathered flyers, making it a paradise for bird-watchers, who can spot terns, riparian birds, aquatic birds, desert and grassland birds, king fish and warblers. The Amistad National Park Service offers monthly birding tours of the park. History is a large part of the areas charm, from ancient American Indian petroglyphs in Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site and the White Shaman Preserve to the Whitehead Memorial Museum on South Main Street, where Judge Roy Bean the law west of the Pecos is buried. The areas
rich Mexican-American heritage is celebrated at Casa de la Cultura, which hosts events and classes. Val Verde Winery, the oldest bonded winery in Texas, is the place for tastings, tours and occasional musical events. And art-lovers enjoy monthly art walks to explore the citys galleries. del Rio Conveniently Located Getting to Del Rio is easy. The city is a quick drive 150 miles west of San Antonio and south of San Angelo. Its served by Amtraks Sunset Limited. Del Rio International Airport, with twice-daily United Airlines flights, and the citys three rental car agencies help make air travel easy. We recently finished a nearly $2 million renovation of our terminal, says airport manager Billie Jo Grafton. Its absolutely unique, and it suits the Del Rio environment very West Texas, with warm tones that make it comfortable. The terminals new seating, convenient layout, efficient customs and security, free parking, and quick accessibility from anywhere in Del Rio have made it popular with travelers. Its like being in an easy chair at home versus walking through the mall on Saturday, Grafton says. People love it.
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Right
Reasons
RESIdENTS LIST pOSITIvES OF LIvING HERE
Rio in 1968 so that Bill could begin teaching automotive technology at the brand new high school. We got involved in our church, our young daughters school, my husbands school, and we made a lot of friends, Langford says. We never wanted to leave. Langford eventually worked for the school district and then owned a hair salon, and for the past 15 years has been with the Del Rio Convention and Visitors Bureau. Bill and I raised two children who are successful, which speaks highly of the education system, she says. I have been happy in
stoRy By kEvIN LITwIN PhotoGRAPhy By bRIAN mcCORd
el Rio has a lot going for it. There is a diverse and friendly population, great weather and beautiful Lake Amistad. Plus Del Rio is poised for economic growth, with increased efforts in place to attract more business and industry to the community.
Never wanted to Leave One resident who arrived in the city in 1968 and never departed is Donna Langford, director of the Del Rio Convention and Visitors Bureau. Langford and her husband, Bill, moved from Abilene to Del
Del Rio for nearly 45 years. Col. Tom Murphy also knows about the positive aspects of Del Rio. The Massachusetts native arrived in Del Rio in 1989 to undergo pilot training at Laughlin Air Force Base, and eventually became assistant flight commander through August 1994. After being assigned to several different states after that, Murphy returned to Laughlin AFB in July 2010 and today is commander of the 47th Flying Training Wing. The great thing about returning to Del Rio in 2010 was seeing some of the same faces I
donna and bill langford relax with their dogs on the patio of their home on lake amistad.
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knew when I was here in the early 1990s, Murphy says. Guys like Lonnie Ricks, who owned Ricks Furniture where I bought furniture for my first home. It is now Ashley Furniture, and Lonnie is still there. Regarding activities and recreation, Murphy says his wife, Carla, enjoys shopping and the citys restaurants, while the couples son, Tommy, plays varsity baseball for Del Rio High School. I like going to Roosevelt Park to
watch Tommy, and hang around with all the other parents, he says. People are really friendly in Del Rio. I notice it often. Home in del Rio A Del Rio native who left for college and then returned to the city is Al Arreola Jr. He is a 2000 graduate of San Felipe Del Rio and attended Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi, and in 2010 was appointed executive director of the
Del Rio Chamber of Commerce. I know there are many like me who want to come back home to Del Rio, so as we look to the future, we need to make sure our economic growth can offer opportunities for all our generations, Arreola says. There is a saying: Im not from Texas, but got here as soon as I could. Well Im from Texas, but Im especially blessed that Im home in Del Rio.
Top left: Donna and Bill langfords home on lake Amistad bottom left: Col. tom Murphy and Chief Master sgt. Ray Devite donate to the 2012 Air Force Assistance Fund. Above: Baseball game at Roosevelt Park
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boom town
Lake Amistad and the Amistad National Recreation area are located northwest of del Rio in val verde County.
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Business
wATER ANd wORkFORCE ARE TwO AmENITIES FuELING dEL RIOS CONTINuEd GROwTH
he intersection of revitalization and growth is a good place to be, and thats where Del Rio finds itself these days. The city is benefiting from construction in every quarter. Whether its new roadwork or other infrastructure renovation, new businesses coming in or entire areas being revitalized and renewed, Del Rio is on the move. And thanks to a well-educated workforce, plenty of natural resources and a pro-business attitude, theres plenty more where all this is coming from. We have a lot to offer, and people continue to realize that, says Al Arreola Jr., executive director of the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce. We are well positioned to capitalize on the major projects both here and all around us.
Dodson avenues. These improvements are being anchored by new hotel growth and expansions in the citys growing health-care sector. ports to plains Del Rio is also avidly watching the developments being spurred on by the Ports To Plains Alliance, which is advocating for a major highway thoroughfare from the seaports of Mexico up through the United States and eventually to seaports in Canada. As planned, it would run directly through Del Rio, Arreola says. State Loop 79/Laughlin Air Force base On a smaller but no less important scale, Del Rio saw the opening of the new State Loop 79 roadway, which encompasses the entire city and connects the lakeside toward Laughlin Air Force Base. And speaking of Laughlin, it was declared the busiest airfield in the United States in 2011, and Del Rio continues to benefit from the myriad activities there. They are as healthy as ever, and so the bases contributions to us continue, Arreola says. We continue to benefit from their employees, who shop and live here,
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Roads Lead the way Multiple road projects are helping to infill areas of Del Rio that needed transportation improvements, and also are providing opportunities for new businesses and residential areas. Veterans Boulevard, the citys main thoroughfare, has been repaved and upgraded, as have Bedell and
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and by also providing goods and services to the base itself as much as possible. San Felipe Springs/Acuna partnership Underlying it all is the San Felipe Springs, a source of water that is literally centuries from being tapped out. We know that we have that sustainable resource for a long time, and having a stable water supply has been key to our business and residential growth, Arreola says. It is the literal groundwork that consistently helps us bring in new development. Now add in a 40-year, ongoing relationship with Acuna, Del Rios neighbor across the Mexican border. That partnership has not only led to significant industrial development between the two municipalities, but also for shared economic growth that will only continue with the major developments to come. The Ports to Plains project, and the many other things happening, are really going to be a way for Del Rio to capitalize on all that it has to offer, Arreola says. All these things are in line with what weve been doing for years, even decades, so we are definitely going to benefit.
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Business
Biz Briefs
del Rios niGhtliFe scene contRibutes to the citys thRivinG economic climate and makes it easy to Find a little Fun.
scorecard
buSINESS AT A GLANCE
$513 million
Annual Retail Sales
$14,197
Retail Sales per Capita
$58 million
Annual Hotel and Food Sales
3,235
Total number of firms
source: U.s. Census QuickFacts
dOC HOLLIdAyS Biz: Dance hall and restaurant Buzz: Doc Hollidays, which re-opened in Del Rio in April 2012, offers music, food and nightlife. An indoor dining room and an outdoor patio provide space for eating and socializing, and an area for playing pool and darts is available. Doc Hollidays also offers a late-night menu that features items such as pizza by the slice. (612) 850-5619 24
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vERANdA bEER ANd wINE GARdEN Biz: Wine bar Buzz: Owned by wine connoisseurs Mark and DJ Goddard, Veranda Beer and Wine Garden provides more than 30 red and white wines, as well as approximately 20 varieties of beer. Light appetizers and desserts such as cheesecake and chocolate strawberries are also offered. In addition to an indoor sitting area, guests can enjoy a tropical garden complete with a waterfall and stream. www.verandawineandbeergarden.com CHApARRAL NIGHT CLub Biz: Night club and bar Buzz: Open since 2011, Chaparral Night Club offers music, dancing and a variety of special events such as Girls Night Out and holiday parties. Guests can also take in live entertainment; past performers include Grupo Duelo and the Josh Peek Band. Chaparral Night Club is open from Wednesday through Saturday from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m. www.chaparralnightclubdelrio.com wHITE HORSE LOuNGE Biz: Restaurant and bar Buzz: White Horse Lounge, located inside Ramada Del Rio, features a stocked bar and a menu that includes appetizers, burgers, Mexican food, steaks and other items. Customers can enjoy the lounges big screen televisions, SIRIUS radio, outdoor cigar patio and more. White Horse Lounge is open daily until 2 a.m., opening at 4 p.m. on weekdays and noon on weekends. www.ramadainndelrio.com CLub ARRIbA Biz: Night club and bar Buzz: Club Arriba offers high-energy music and drink specials, as well as contests and special events. The club also gives back to the Del Rio community and has worked with organizations such as the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Early Childhood Intervention and The Childrens Shelter. Club Arriba is open from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m. Wednesday through Saturday. www.clubarribadelrio.com
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Business
chamber report
chambeR backs a doin RiGht campaiGn
el Rio has a lot going for it such as hard-working people, solid businesses, great weather and more. And now, expanding on those positives, the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce and several businesses and organizations are supporting a Del Rio Doin Right campaign. this is a community project
to bring more positive emphasis on Del Rio, to better recognize what a fine city we have, and what nice people live here, says Al Arreola, Del Rio Chamber of Commerce executive director. We have a lot to appreciate in this city, and a lot to offer. Arreola says Del Rio residents are already creating a better city.
Every day in our community, there are people contributing their time, energy and efforts into making this a better place to live and work, and thats what this feel-good campaign is all about, he says. the campaign motto is, No task is too small or too large, and its purpose is to get more of our residents involved in activities that will make Del Rio even stronger and more attractive.
Wooden tokens
Arreola says when a resident sees someone Doin Right, they should hand that person a Doin Right token which can be found at local businesses and at the Del Rio Chamber office. When a token is given to a deserving person, be sure to start a conversation with that person to explain the campaign, and ask the person to pass on the token whenever they see someone else Doin Right, he says. the token could be presented for a Del Rio beautification project, a fundraiser for a good cause, picking up trash, good customer service, volunteer work, or being a good neighbor. Any act small, large or somewhere in between deserves to be recognized and encouraged.
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ECONOmIC pROFILE
ECONOmIC OvERvIEw
tourism contributes greatly to the local economy since the region is a tourist destination for winter texans, birders and sport fishermen.
INCOmE
wORkFORCE
$14,429
per capita income
31,638 77%
total Workforce
mAjOR EmpLOyERS
Federal agencies 1,955 employees san Felipe del Rio cisd 1,567 employees laughlin air Force base (civilian employees) 1,455 employees laughlin air Force base (military personnel) 1,327 employees val verde Regional medical center 500 employees city of del Rio 485 employees Wal-mart supercenter 473 employees plaza del sol mall 445 employees h.e.b. Grocery 256 employees val verde county 206 employees
$40,240
average annual household expenditure
White-collar Jobs
23%
TRANSpORTATION
del Rio international airport 1104 W. 10th st. Del Rio, tx 78840 (830) 774-8538 www.cityofdelrio.com union pacific Railroad co. 100 N. Main st. Del Rio, tx 78840 (830) 775-9865 www.up.com amtrak 100 N. Main st. Del Rio, tx 78840 www.amtrak.com transportation department 100 ogden Del Rio, tx 78840 (830) 703-5324 www.cityofdelrio.com
blue-collar Jobs
EduCATION
del Rio city manager 109 W. Broadway st. (830) 774-8558
GOvERNmENT OFFICES
del Rio mayor office 109 W. Broadway st. (830) 774-8558 www.cityofdelrio.com Del Rio municipal court 109 W. Broadway st. (830) 774-8506 Federal bureau-investigation 111 E. Broadway st. (830) 775-0076 www.fbi.gov
Angie Farhat, President 2200 Veterans Blvd. Del Rio, TX 78840 Val Verde County 830-778-BOOT 830-775-8026 fax
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Cormorants perch in the lake near Lake Amistad National Recreation Area. Photo by Brian McCord
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Casa de Vino a wine store, bar and restaurant features a variety of wines. Photo by Brian McCord
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Cactus flower in Diablo East at Lake Amistad National Recreation Area Photo by Brian McCord
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Brian Day does a backflip into San Felipe Creek, which flows through Del Rio. Photo by Brian McCord
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vvRMC entered into a management agreement with Methodist healthcare system in san Antonio. through this agreement, vvRMC is able to tap into the rich resources available to them to help enhance quality and further develop clinical areas so that there is more depth and breadth to the services offered locally.
stresses placed on the emergency department and help to more appropriately triage those patients who need quick in-andout care when their doctors office is usually closed.
a toP 10 emPloyer
vvRMC is vital to the local economy. it is one of the top 10 employers in the county, with more than 400 employees. Nearly 40 of those employees have more than 25 years of service. the medical center is a great place to work, as evidenced by strong employee engagement scores year after year. the hospital fosters a spirit of teamwork and has a culture that supports a
constantly groWing
Attracting the best doctors to Del Rio is a top priority. in recent years, vvRMC has been successful in expanding orthopedics, nephrology and cardiovascular specialties. the hospital has also opened a weekend urgent care clinic that will help alleviate the
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For more insight on Del Rios health and wellness offerings, head to livability.com/del-rio/tx.
From left: val verde Regional medical center; a bedroom and living room in a private suite at country place living
assisted living
Del Rio also offers assisted living at Country Place living, which accommodates mature adults age 75 and older, and provides an intimate, comfortable environment. the facility comprises 3,600 square feet and includes eight bedrooms with attached bathrooms. Residents are served three nutritious meals daily and can enjoy amenities such as free wireless internet and cable television, an outdoor patio, landscaped grounds and more. An additional assisted living facility is in the planning stages and is scheduled to open in the area in the future.
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Whats online
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local Flavor
hree restaurants located along Del Rios lake Amistad offer diners a mix of enticing food, beverages, casual dining atmospheres and lakeside views.
enchiladas and more. house specialties include the Famous Corona chicken, Byrons fish tacos and the fried fish basket. Available seven nights a week, rib-eye steak was recently added to icons everchanging menu. icon also features nightly dinner specials like saturdays prime rib offering, which is quickly becoming a customer favorite. After dinner, be sure to watch your favorite team on one of the large tvs located in the icons full bar, or listen to music in the outdoor patio area, where live music can be heard during one of
casa de vino
originally opened four years ago as a retail wine shop, Casa De vino has since expanded into a casual dining restaurant that serves mouthwatering food Wednesday through saturday. Customers can relax in Casa De vinos comfortable atmosphere while enjoying impeccable service and some of the restaurants house specialties like the certified Angus beef 16-ounce rib-eye steak or Annies special quail.
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As its name strongly suggests, Casa De vino is also the place to find your favorite wine as the restaurant features over 3,000 varieties of wine from around the world. Casa De vino is open from 3 p.m. to 12 a.m., tuesday through saturday.
lorinas cantina
lorinas Cantina is a familyoperated establishment offering beer, wine, mixed drinks and food specials. sit outside and enjoy a lakeside view on lorinas covered outdoor patio. lorinas also features five big-screen tvs, darts, pool, a 2012 live golf machine, and karaoke on Wednesday and saturday nights. Be sure to stop by lorinas on Wednesday for steak night and order the special 10-ounce rib-eye with baked potato, salad, beans, roll and chili toreados for just $15.00. lorinas is open daily from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. Barbara Biehler
left: icon bar and Grills corona chicken is served atop a bed of rice pilaf. above: casa de vino is a wine store, wine bar and restaurant.
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he eyes have it in the scenic and inspiring city of Del Rio, where several artists have paintings, sculpture, pottery, jewelry and photography showcased at various studios and galleries. here are some examples:
programs for children and adults that include ballet folklrico, ceramics, computers, drawing, literacy, painting, piata-making and rondalla. More than 40,000 people participate annually in the Casas programs.
Clockwise from top: murals decorate buildings across the street from casa de la cultura; pam bunch paints at the lee bunch studio Gallery in downtown del Rio; the White shaman site features rock art dating back over 4,000 years.
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advertisers
Amistad Manufactured Homes www.manufacturedhomesdelrio.com Buffalo Wings & Rings www.buffalowingsandrings.com Camino Del Rey Apartments www.caminodelreyapartments.com Capri Temporary Housing www.capritemporaryhousing.com Chaparral/Sugar & Spice Country Place Living www.countryplaceliving.com Del Tex RV & Auto Repair Center www.deltexrv.com Edwards-Graham Insurance Agency www.edwardsgraham.com Falcon Insurance Services Inc. www.falconins.com Fuddruckers www.fuddruckers.com Gateway Apartments/ Oakwood Apartments Lake Amistad Marina www.lakeamistadrealty.com Laughlin Heritage Foundation Museum Inc. www.sites.google.com/site/ laughlinheritagefoundationinc/
visit our
Lee Bunch Studio Gallery www.leebunchstudiogallery.com Lone Star Self Storage www.storagedelrio.com Plaza Del Sol www.plazadelsolmall.com Ram Country Chrysler Dodge www.ramcountry.com Ramada www.ramadainndelrio.com Rio Bravo Cancer & Blood P.A. Ron Castle Photography www.roncastlephotos.com Sams Boot Corral Southwest Texas Junior College www.swtjc.edu Texas Community Bank www.tx-communitybank.com
The Bank & Trust www.thebankandtrust.com The City of Del Rio www.cityofdelrio.com The Little Schoolhouse www.delriolittleschoolhouse.com The Seed www.theseedschool.com Val Verde Regional Medical Center www.vvrmc.org
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rock art
Del Rio has been receiving national attention for its ancient rock art, which dates back as far as 4,000 years. the hundreds of rock art sites in the Del Rio area have attracted archeologists from around the world and are being studied at the shumla school inc., a nonprofit archeological research and education center in nearby Comstock. the oldest rock art is called Pecos River style and contains images of human-like forms, animals and all kinds of enigmatic imagery. Rock art panels are sometimes 100 feet long and 20 feet tall, produced by native peoples.
the Firehouse
A gathering spot for visual arts and education and other forms of the arts is fittingly called Del Rio Council for the Arts, or more commonly the Firehouse. the name comes from its two-story, brick-red 1922 edifice Del Rios first city hall, fire station, police department and jail that has housed the arts organization in the citys downtown since 1977. the Firehouse hosts up to 18 art exhibitions annually and offers an array of art classes. Kevin Litwin
These fine people dont look like a group of battle hardened troops. But take a closer look. When it comes to fighting cancer, this bunch is made up of Del Rios most battle-tested foot soldiers. As a team of cancer treatment professionals with decades of experience, Dr. Susan Taylor and her staff wage war every day for every patient every time. Remember that, when you find yourself in the fight of your life. This is what we do. Weve got your back.
1301 Ave. G Del Rio, TX 78840 (830) 775-5800 tel (830) 775-8811 fax
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Whats online
Read more about getting out and active in Del Rio by visiting livability.com/del-rio/tx. Click Things To Do, then Outdoors.
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ANtoNy BoshiER
Ranch Management features hunting accommodations including a bunkhouse and cabin, hunting blinds, and access to a five-square-mile hunting area. Provost Adventures offers turkey and white tail deer hunting on 30,000 acres.
Parks imProvements
Del Rio has some parks and facilities that recently received renovations including Carranza Park and onslow Park that both upgraded their pavilions and bathrooms, and installed new playground equipment. the 14th street Park also has new playground equipment as well as a skate park. Buena vista Pool received renovations to its pavilion and bathrooms, and Moore Park Pool added a new pool floor and various other improvements.
continuously running winery in texas with a wide selection of wines that includes its Don luis tawny Port, which has won medals across the country. this winery welcomes the public as it offers complimentary tours and tastings. For golfers, san Felipe Country Club is a nine-hole golf course that also has a swimming pool, tennis courts and an on-site restaurant, while leaning Pines Golf Course is a nine-hole venue managed by the united states Air Force services Agency.
Water recreation
lake Amistad covers 67,000 acres and is stocked with fish ranging from largemouth bass to Mexican tetra. san Felipe Creek is perfect for swimming, cooking out or relaxing along its shores, and Del Rio also has horseshoe Park swimming hole and san Felipe springs, a group of natural springs extending along san Felipe Creek. Braxton Shoop
BRiAN M c CoRD
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Education
smart moves
local colleGes oFFeR multiple choices
wo convenient college campuses in Del Rio deserve gold stars for providing quality education and getting students workforce ready. the southwest texas Junior College campus in Del Rio accommodates more than 1,200 students, while sul Ross state university Rio Grande College offers students bachelors degrees in nearly a dozen fields. here is a little background:
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del Rio
degrees, but also masters degrees in education and business administration. the campus offers a combination of small class sizes, an appreciation of both fine arts and the sciences, and popular professional programs in a relaxed, friendly environment. students have the opportunity to use computer laboratories, learning centers and an auditorium. sul Ross state university, which is a member of the texas state university system, has a main campus in Alpine, plus three satellite campuses in Del Rio, Eagle Pass and uvalde that combined make up Rio Grande College. Class sizes are small to guarantee higher levels of personal attention from instructors and the universitys support staff. sul Ross state also offers students plenty to do in their free time such as several student clubs and organizations along with a strong athletic tradition.
Office Hours: Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 111 Kings Way Del Rio, TX 78840 (830) 775-8445 info@caminodelreyapartments.com www.caminodelreyapartments.com 45
Left: sWtJc del Rio campus; Right: sWtJc del Rio student Government
l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d e l- R i o/ t x
Auto Home Mobile Home Motorcycle Boat Commercial Life Health 1906 Veterans Blvd. Del Rio, TX 78840 (830) 775-2411 www.edwardsgraham.com
Edwards-Graham
Insurance Agency
Since 1906
Half-Day Educational Program with Christian Values Preschool & Pre-K: 2-5 Years Visit our website for more information. (830) 778-2444 www.theseedschool.com
Lee-Bunch
Studio Gallery
Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Saturday 1-5:30 p.m. Fine Art | Pottery | Custom Matting and Framing Custom-Made Jewelry | Gift Items | Hand-Turned Wood 100 W. Greenwood | Del Rio, TX 78840 Located above Del Rio Loan Company www.leebunchstudiogallery.com
(830) 774-3456
www.manufacturedhomesdelrio.com
www.falconins.com
www.buffalowingsandrings.com 46
del Rio
COmmuNITy pROFILE
OvERvIEw
located in the central border region of texas, Del Rio is an oasis with san Felipe springs flowing 150 million gallons of water per day through creeks and canals. Water and a temperate climate make Del Rio a recreational mecca.
HOuSEHOLd INFORmATION
(830) 775-3551 www.drchamber.com city of del Rio 109 W. Broadway (830) 774-8558 www.cityofdelrio.com utility billing department 109 W. Broadway (830) 774-8550 www.cityofdelrio.com city of del Rio police department 101 lowe Drive (830) 774-8718 www.cityofdelrio.com natural Gas department 201 E. Del la Rose st. (830) 774-8650 (830) 774-8622 (after hours) www.cityofdelrio.com city of del Rio police department 101 lowe Drive (830) 774-8718 www.cityofdelrio.com drivers license division 2012 veterans Blvd. (830) 775-2367 val verde county voter Registration (830) 774-7529 www.valverdecounty.org the city of del Rio Recycling collection station/landfill 1897 Railway Avenue (830) 703-5320 val verde county library 300 spring street (830) 774-7595
38,000
total population
33
CLImATE
96
58%
married
40 19
42%
single
33%
COST OF LIvING
42% 25%
age 20-54
$35,673
$40,390
median home price
54%
White
$596
1%
black
44%
TImE zONE
central hispanic
1%
other
TRANSpORTATION
14 minutes
NumbERS TO kNOw
del Rio chamber of commerce 1915 veterans Blvd.
Whats online
For more stories on the people, places and events that define Del Rio, visit livability.com/del-rio/tx.
l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d e l- R i o/ t x
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more online
See more favorite photos and read the stories behind the shots at throughthelensjci.com.
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del Rio
Ad Index
46 AmistAd mAnufActured Homes 46 BuffAlo Wings & rings 45 cAmino del rey ApArtments 22 cApri temporAry Housing 22 cHApArrAl/sugAr & spice 35 country plAce living 8 del tex rv & Auto repAir center 46 edWArds-grAHAm insurAnce Agency 46 fAlcon insurAnce services inc. 37 fuddruckers 5 plAzA del sol 40 rAm country cHrysler dodge c3 rAmAdA 41 rio BrAvo cAncer & Blood p.A. 46 ron cAstle pHotogrApHy 25 lone stAr self storAge 46 lee BuncH studio gAllery 40 gAteWAy ApArtments/ oAkWood ApArtments c4 lAke AmistAd mArinA 26 lAugHlin HeritAge foundAtion museum inc.
Ad Index (cont.)
27 sAms Boot corrAl 25 soutHWest texAs Junior college 8 texAs community BAnk 23 tHe BAnk & trust 2 tHe city of del rio 46 tHe little scHoolHouse 46 tHe seed c2 vAl verde regionAl medicAl center
PAID ADVERTISEMENT
Del Rio
Amenities & Services
Radio-alarm clock Iron & full-sized ironing board 37 flat-screen LCD TV Refrigerator Microwave oven
If you have been with us before, you know the history and mystique that is Ramada Del Rio. For over 30 years, people have been experiencing the hospitality and hotel development of this legendary hotel that now features: 183 beautiful suites, mini-suites and executive guest rooms nestled around our scenic center courtyard graced by tropical palms, bananas trees and lush flower beds. People continually appreciate our ongoing improvements of facilities and technology now offering a new, state-of-the-art 3,000-square-foot conference center and free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and conference center. Ramada Del Rio is home to one of the hottest night spots for sports and entertainment: The White Horse Lounge. Try the great American and Ethnic cuisine of the Summerfields restaurant offering delicious meals and appetizers until late night hours. Expect a warm welcome at the Ramada Del Rio, our personal touch is what sets us apart. Our staff is committed to making your stay exceptional in all aspects: be it one of our service or support members, event planners, or management team we strive to get to know you in hopes that when you do leave, we have earned a new and respected friend. For a day of relaxing or as a break enjoy our palm-shaded outdoor pool with cabana hot tub, sun and lounging decks. Try one of our three Jacuzzis or indoor pool, three saunas, or two fitness centers. Enjoy our outdoor jogging/fitness track and youth playground that complement our facilities for your ultimate relaxation and enjoyment. Whether youre looking to plan a corporate meeting, retreat or simply escaping the stress of business; or wanting to just relax fishing the best bass lake in the US; or planning the perfect wedding, family or class reunion, we provide the perfect setting for a truly memorable visit. Remember: You do your thing leave the rest to us. 2101 Veterans Blvd. Del Rio (830) 775-1511 (830) 768-0481 fax www.ramadainndelrio.com
Free Wi-Fi in all guest & conference rooms Complimentary coffee/tea maker & supplies
Speaker phone with modem port Hair dryer & makeup mirror at vanity area Tub/shower combination Front desk staffed 24/7 to serve you RamadaMart features assorted foods, drinks, sundries, etc. available 24/7
Summerfields Restaurant
Open at 6 a.m. daily Fresh breakfast buffet offering cooked-to- order omelets, waffles, American and authentic local ethnic specialties la carte menu available all meal periods Dinner specialties also: 5-10 p.m. nightly Room service coincides with Summerfields hours
Room Entertainment
70 plus cable channels including: HBO1 & HBO2, three ESPNs, six Spanish Channels
Free, fresh-cooked breakfast buffet for government employee & Wyndham Rewards members Free morning paper for Wyndham Rewards members Free shuttle from & to KDRT (Del Rio International Airport) Free local telephone Free parking Free easy access boat parking & charging locations