BRAIN STORMERSHigh schoolers excel in engineering

BlESSEd WITh GlORIOuS ChuRChES

EAST, WEST, NORTH, SOUTHCity boasts four distinct neighborhoods

Tour the state’s oldest winery, Val Verde

Winery, with Michael Qualia.

What’s Online

SpONSOREd By ThE dEl RIO ChAMBER Of COMMERCE

2010 | IMAGESdElRIO.COM

®

dEl RIO, TExAS

Del RioAmenities & Services•FreeWi-Fiinallguest&conferencerooms

•Radio-alarmclock

•Complimentarycoffee/teamaker&supplies

•Iron&full-sizedironingboard

•37”flat-screenLCDTV

•Refrigerator

•Microwaveoven

•Speakerphonewithmodemport

•Hairdryer&makeupmirroratvanityarea

•Tub/showercombination

•Frontdeskstaffed24/7toserveyou

•RamadaMart®featuresassortedfoods, drinks,sundries,etc.available24/7

Summerfield ’s Restaurant•Openat6a.m.daily

•Freshbreakfastbuffetofferingcooked-to- orderomelets,waffles,American andauthenticlocalethnicspecialties

•Àlacartemenuavailableallmealperiods

•Dinnerspecialtiesalso:5-10p.m.nightly

•Roomservicecoincideswith Summerfield’shours

The White Horse Lounge•Opendailyuntil2a.m.

•Happyhourspecialsnightly

•Freeappetizers&snacksnightly

•HDTVswithsurroundsound

•Fullmenuavailablenightlyuntil 12midnight,Friday&Saturdayuntil2a.m.

Room Entertainment•70pluscablechannelsincluding:HBO1 &HBO2,threeESPNs,sixSpanishChannels

Business Travelers Appreciated Amenities•Multipleelectricaloutletsatdesk

•Tasklightingatdesk

•Freehigh-speedWi-Fiinyourguestroom

•Speakerphonewithmodemport

•Voicemail

•In-roomsafes(mostrooms)

•Safedepositboxesavailable

•Twolaundryfacilitieson-siteforguests

•Valetlaundry&drycleanerservice

Free Services & Amenities•Free,fresh-cookedbreakfastbuffetfor governmentemployee&Wyndham Rewardsmembers

•Freemorningpaperfor WyndhamRewardsmembers

•Freeshuttlefrom&toKDRT (DelRioInternationalAirport)

•Freelocaltelephone

•Freeparking

•Freeeasyaccessboatparking &charginglocations

Amenities& Services

DEL RIO’S PREMIER FULL-SERVICE HOTEL

Ifyouhavebeenwithusbefore,youknowthehistoryandmystiquethatisRamada–DelRio.Forover30years,peoplehavebeenexperiencingthehospitalityandhoteldevelopmentofthislegendaryhotelthatnowfeatures:183beautifulsuites,mini-suitesandexecutiveguestroomsnestledaroundoursceniccentercourtyardgracedbytropicalpalms,bananastreesandlushflowerbeds.

Peoplecontinuallyappreciateourongoingimprovementsoffacilitiesandtechnologynowofferinganew,state-of-the-art3,000-square-footconferencecenterandfreehigh-speedWi-Fithroughoutthehotelandconferencecenter.

Ramada–DelRioishometooneofthehottestnightspotsforsportsandentertainment:TheWhiteHorseLounge.TrythegreatAmericanandEthniccuisineoftheSummerfield’srestaurantofferingdeliciousmealsandappetizersuntillatenighthours.

ExpectawarmwelcomeattheRamada–DelRio,ourpersonaltouchiswhatsetsusapart.Ourstaffiscommittedtomakingyourstayexceptionalinallaspects:beitoneofourserviceorsupportmembers,eventplanners,ormanagementteamwestrivetogettoknowyouinhopesthatwhenyoudoleave,wehaveearnedanewandrespectedfriend.

Foradayofrelaxingorasabreakenjoyourpalm-shadedoutdoorpoolwithcabanahottub,sunandloungingdecks.TryoneofourthreeJacuzzisorindoorpool,threesaunas,ortwofitnesscenters.Enjoyouroutdoorjogging/fitnesstrackandyouthplaygroundthatcomplementourfacilitiesforyourultimaterelaxationandenjoyment.

Whetheryou’relookingtoplanacorporatemeeting,retreatorsimplyescapingthestressofbusiness;orwantingtojustrelax…fishingthebestbasslakeintheUS;orplanningtheperfectwedding,familyorclassreunion,weprovidetheperfectsettingforatrulymemorablevisit.

Remember:Youdoyourthing…leavetheresttous.®

2101VeteransBlvd.•DelRio

(830)775-1511•(830)768-0481fax

www.ramadainndelrio.com

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

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del rio 3

del rio 3

2010 EdITION | VOluME 1

dEl RIO, TExAS

ON ThE COVER First United Methodist Church in downtown Del Rio Photo by Jeff Adkins

dEpARTmENTS

7 Almanac: a colorful sampling of Del Rio culture

30 Image Gallery: Glorious Churches

37 Education: Brain Stormers

38 Sports & Recreation

40 health & Wellness

45 Community profile: facts, stats and important numbers to know

dEl RiO BUSiNESS 22 made in mexico

Border proximity benefits businesses.

26 Biz Briefs

28 Chamber Report

29 Economic profile

®

CONTENTS

FEATURES

12 Of WATER ANd WIldlIfEGood times flow at local recreation areas.

16 EAST, WEST, NORTh, SOuThDiverse living options flow outward from Del Rio’s earliest neighborhoods.

20 WhEN ThE ChIpS ARE upJulio’s Chips continues to grow from Del Rio Base.

42 ART IN ThE hEART Of ThE QuEENDel Rio boasts a rich stew of dedicated arts organizations.

All or part of this magazine is printed with soy ink on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

plEASE RECyClE THiS mAgAziNE

4 imAgesdelrio.Com del rio 5

dEl RIO, TExAS

®

pROjECT MANAGERS ARi SURDovAl

pROOfREAdING MANAGER RAven Petty

CONTENT COORdINATORS JenniFeR GRAveS, eRiCA HineS

STAff WRITER Kevin litwin

COpy EdITORS liSA BAttleS, JoyCe CARUtHeRS, Jill wyAtt

CONTRIBuTING WRITERS MelAnie Hill,

Joe MoRRiS, Bill SontAG, AMy StUMPFl

MEdIA TEChNOlOGy dIRECTOR CHRiStinA CARDen

lEAd dESIGNER CAnDiCe Sweet

SENIOR GRAphIC dESIGNERS

lAURA GAllAGHeR, JeSSiCA MAnneR,

JAnine MARylAnD, KRiS Sexton, viKKi williAMS

MEdIA TEChNOlOGy ANAlySTS CHAnDRA BRADSHAw,

yAMel HAll, AliSon HUnteR, MARCUS SnyDeR

phOTOGRAphy dIRECTOR JeFFRey S. otto

SENIOR phOTOGRAphERS JeFF ADKinS, BRiAn McCoRD

STAff phOTOGRAphERS toDD Bennett, Antony BoSHieR

WEB CONTENT MANAGERS JoHn HooD, KiM MADloM

WEB dESIGN dIRECTOR FRAnCo SCARAMUzzA

WEB dESIGNER leiGH GUARin

WEB dEVElOpER JeReMy DiCKenS

Ad pROduCTION MANAGER KAtie MiDDenDoRF

Ad TRAffIC ASSISTANTS MARCiA MilleR, PAtRiCiA MoiSAn

I.T. dIRECTOR yAnCey BonD

I.T. SERVICE TEChNICIAN RyAn Sweeney

REGIONAl SAlES MANAGER CHARleS Sweeney

SAlES SuppORT/COMMuNITy, BuSINESS, CuSTOM

RACHAel GolDSBeRRy

SENIOR ACCOuNTANT liSA owenS

ACCOuNTS pAyABlE COORdINATOR MARiA McFARlAnD

ACCOuNTS RECEIVABlE COORdINATOR DiAnA GUzMAn

OffICE MANAGER/ACCOuNTS RECEIVABlE

COORdINATOR SHelly MilleR

INTEGRATEd MEdIA MANAGER PAtRiCK CRAwFoRD

SAlES SuppORT MANAGER CinDy HAll

ChAIRMAN GReG tHURMAn

pRESIdENT/puBlIShER BoB SCHwARtzMAn

ExECuTIVE VICE pRESIdENT RAy lAnGen

SENIOR V.p./SAlES toDD PotteR, CARlA tHURMAn

SENIOR V.p./OpERATIONS CASey HeSteR

SENIOR V.p./ClIENT dEVElOpMENT JeFF HeeFneR

V.p./CONTENT dEVElOpMENT teRee CARUtHeRS

V.p./CuSTOM puBlIShING KiM newSoM

V.p./VISuAl CONTENT MARK FoReSteR

V.p./CONTENT OpERATIONS nAtASHA loRenS

V.p. SAlES CHARleS FitzGiBBon,

HeRB HARPeR, JAReK SweKoSKy

CONTROllER CHRiS DUDley

CONTENT dIRECTOR/TRAVEl puBlICATIONS

SUSAn CHAPPell

CONTENT dIRECTOR/BuSINESS puBlICATIONS

Bill McMeeKin

MARkETING CREATIVE dIRECTOR KeitH HARRiS

dISTRIBuTION dIRECTOR GARy SMitH

RECRuITING/TRAINING dIRECTOR SUzy SiMPSon

ExECuTIVE SECRETARy KRiSty DUnCAn

huMAN RESOuRCES MANAGER PeGGy BlAKe

RECEpTIONIST linDA BiSHoP

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 e-mail at info@jnlcom.com.

fOR MORE INfORMATION, CONTACT:Del Rio Chamber of Commerce

1915 Veterans Boulevard • Del Rio, TX 78440Phone: (830) 775-3551 • Fax: (830) 774-1813

www.drchamber.com

VISIT images del rio texas ONlINE AT IMAGESdElRIO.COM

©Copyright 2010 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 Magazine Publishers of America

Member Custom Publishing Council

Member Del Rio Chamber of Commerce

Explore its landscapes, cultural offerings,

food and fun.

See its downtown, neighborhoods, parks

and attractions.

Experience the history, hot spots and local happenings.

Now Showing in Our Video gallery

Sit back and enjoy a preview of del Rio amenities.

Del Rio is rated l for livability

imagesdelrio.com

4 imAgesdelrio.Com del rio 5

What’s Online

imagesdelrio.comTHe definiTive reloCATion resourCe

piCTURE pERFECT

VidEOS

FACTS & STATS

RElOCATiON

in our interactive section, watch quick videos by our editors and photographers featuring people, places and events.

ABOUT THiS mAgAziNEImages gives readers a taste of what makes Del Rio tick – from business and education to sports, health care and the arts.

lOCAl FlAVOR

Go online to learn

even more about:

• Schools

• Health care

• Utilities

• Parks

• taxes

we’ve added even more of our prize-winning photography to the online gallery. to see these photos, click on Photo Gallery.

Considering a move to this

community? we can help. Use our

Relocation tools to discover tips,

including how to make your move

green, advice about moving pets

and help with booking movers.

From the simple to the sublime, the delicious offerings here are guaranteed to satisfy every appetite.

“find the good – and praise it.” – Alex Haley (1921-1992), Journal Communications co-founder

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del rio 7

Discover Del RioBoRDeR CRossing – PAssPoRT ReQUiReD

Duty Free Limit on Purchases

United States travelers returning from Mexico may bring back purchases valued at $800.00 duty free. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is authorized by law to assess a flat rate of 0% on the first $1,000.00 worth of goods over the $800.00 exemption.

Alcohol and Tobacco Information

Once every 30 days, 100 cigars (other than Cuban cigars) and one carton of cigarettes (10 packages) may be brought into the United States duty free (18 years of age or older).

Warning

Undeclared liquor purchases violate the Federal and Texas laws and incur heavy penalties for violators. State tax on tobacco and alcohol subject to change.

Del Rio, TX – CiUDAD ACUñA, MeXiCo

To get to Ciudad Acuña, follow Gibbs St. west to Spur 239 to the International Toll Bridge. You may drive your car into Acuña without an auto permit of any kind. Visitors are limited to 15 miles into the interior of Mexico without a permit; however, to travel beyond the 15-mile limit, visitors must have proof of vehicle ownership such as automobile title, a U.S. driver’s license and proof of U.S. auto insurance for at least two months. Call the Mexican Consulate Office (830) 775-2352 for further travel information into the interior of Mexico.

AMisTAD DAM

Length: . . . . 1.81 miles in United States . . . . . . . . . . . 4.25 miles in Mexico

Total length:. . . . . . . . . . 6.05 miles

Height: . . . . . 245 feet above river bed

Shoreline: . . . 547 miles in United States . . . . . . . . . . . 304 miles in Mexico

Total shoreline: . . . . . . . . . 851 miles

Val Verde Winery, established in 1883, is Texas’ oldest bonded winery. Tours and wine tasting. 100 Qualia Dr. • 775-9714 • www.valverdewinery.com

The gazebo at Brown Plaza – historic center of Del Rio and the home of Casa de la Cultura, a cultural preservation center. 302 W. Cantu • 768-2287 www.casadelaculturadelrio.com

San Felipe Golf Course is a beautifully maintained nine-hole facility. Tournaments and guest players welcome. Hwy. 90 E. • 775-3953 • www.sanfelipecc.com

Swimming and picnic areas are on San Felipe Creek, fed by San Felipe Springs’ daily outpouring of 1 million gallons. City Parks & Recreation • 774-8541 • www.cityofdelrio.com

Laughlin Heritage Museum 309 S. Main • 775-3561 • www.drchamber.com/directory

Del Rio Council for the Arts at the Firehouse 120 E. Garfield • 775-0888 • www.delrioarts.com

Whitehead Memorial Museum 1308 S. Main • 774-7568 www.whiteheadmuseum.org

Amistad National Recreation Area • 775-7491 www.nps.gov/amis

del rio 7

Almanac

A Force in the economylaughlin Air Force Base has some of the best-trained pilots in the

world and also provides an important economic impact to Del Rio and

the surrounding region.

According to the latest statistics, laughlin has 2,800 military personnel

on base along with 1,000 contract workers. the payroll related to

laughlin is nearly $125 million annually, and the base's economic impact

for the 50-mile region that surrounds it is estimated at $260 million.

By the way, Laughlin AFB spans 4,500 acres and features 165

buildings and three runways. the dozens of aircraft on base are valued

at $750 million.

take your Best Shot

outdoor adventurers can be wild

about wildlife hunting in Del Rio.

the area is home to several ranches

that specialize in hunting packages, with

diverse opportunities for those who like

to hunt by bow, rifle, from a stand,

rattling or spot-and-stalk. Popular local

ranches include Amistad Guide Service,

Devils River outfitters, Martin Ranch

Management, Provost Adventures and

wineglass Ranching & Hunting.

Animals most popular with hunters

in Del Rio include whitetail deer, rams,

blue quail, Rio Grande turkeys and

feral hogs. By the way, there is also

excellent bass fishing on lake Amistad.

life in the 1800s

History buffs and curiosity

seekers: want to know more

about Del Rio?

whitehead Memorial Museum

has been around since 1962,

when noted local ranching

family the whiteheads purchased

the old Perry Mercantile Building

and donated it to Del Rio and

val verde County. the family’s

only stipulation was that the

building would be used to

house a museum – and it is.

in fact, 20 exhibit sites are

showcased in nine different

buildings that occupy the

site’s two acres. Most of

the exhibits pay tribute to

19th-century Del Rio.

Also on display are children’s

exhibits such as Dress-Up Corner

as well as wash Board, which

shows how laundry was done

before washing machines.

del rio 9

DEL RIO TEXAS

heart & soul

TELECOMMUNICATIONS CULTURE INDUSTRY BUSINESS TOURISM MANUFACTURING TRANSPORTATION

We are a modern city with a treasured history – join us and work, play, live Del Rio!

For information, call (830) 774-8638 or visit www.cityofdelrio.com.

let Del Rio warm your heart and soul

del rio 9

Almanac

Fast Factsn 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 and enjoying local hospitality and amenities.

n Amtrak’s 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 area’s natural and cultural heritage as part of the Trails & rails program.

n This area is rich in archeological deposits, many of which contain elaborately painted murals that date back more then 4,000 years. Just 50 miles west of the city, instruction and innovative studies in archeology, ecology, natural history, prehistoric lifeways and expressive culture are under way at the sHumlA school.

n The people of del rio and sister city Ciudad Acuna love to celebrate. major events are staged for the fourth of July and oktoberfest, to name a few.

the eyes Have itlatino aerobics classes and works

of art by children are all part of Casa

de la Cultura.

Casa is a community arts center that

features murals, a butterfly garden with

native plants, art camps and classes, a

concert series and other events. its

mission is to promote the appreciation

of Mexican-American culture.

the center is funded primarily through

grants so that arts are accessible and

affordable for the entire community. A

couple of the grant sources are the val

verde Community Foundation and the

texas Commission on the Arts.

Hot and Spicythe food at Memo's Restaurant is as delectable as its history is long and colorful.

the popular eatery has been a Del Rio mainstay since 1936, when Guillermo “Memo”

and leonor Calderon opened the restaurant on the banks of San Felipe Creek. their son,

Moises "Blondie" Calderon, took over the business in 1959. Blondie later became the

piano player and music director for country music legend Ray Price from 1967 until

Blondie's death in 2000.

today, Blondie's wife, Dolly, and their daughter, Patricia Ray, run the restaurant that

features Mexican fare such as fajitas, enchiladas, tacos and chalupas, as well as steaks

and sandwiches.

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DEL TEX RV & AUTO REPAIR CENTER

Repairs - Parts - Service - Storage

Jack & Barbara Plyler • E-mail: deltexrv@wcsonline.net 4220 HWY. 90 W. • Del Rio, TX 78840 • (830) 775-9715

10 imAgesdelrio.Com del rio 11

Almanac

pOpulATION Del Rio: 36,491 (2006 ESTIMATE)

Val Verde County: 48,053 (2008 ESTIMATE)

lOCATION:Del Rio is located on the texas-Mexico border,

midway between Padre island and Big Bend

national Park. the city is eight miles south of

Amistad national Recreation Area which surrounds

lake Amistad, formed by the Rio Grande, Pecos and

Devil’s Rivers.

Del Rio is immediately across from the international

Bridge that originates in Ciudad Acuña, Mexico, and

is seven miles east of the Air education training

Command’s laughlin Air Force Base.

BEGINNINGS: Del Rio’s original name was San Felipe del Rio (Saint

Phillip of the River) – a name given to the area by

early Spanish missionaries who arrived here on St.

Phillips’s Day in 1635. the name survived until 1883,

when the first post office was established and

officials suggested shortening the name to Del Rio

in order to avoid confusion with the town of San

Felipe de Austin, a town still in existence four hours

east by car.

fOR MORE INfORMATION:Del Rio Chamber of Commerce

1915 Veterans Blvd. Del Rio, TX 78840

Phone: (830) 775-3551, Fax: (830) 774-1813

www.drchamber.com

del Rio At A glance

What’s Online Take a virtual tour of Del Rio, courtesy of our award-winning photographers, at imagesdelrio.com.

Biggest, Meanest Bulls

the nastiest bulls this side of

ornery arrive in Del Rio each May

at the George Paul Memorial Bull

Riding competition at the val

verde County Fairgrounds.

Held in memory of legendary

bull rider George Paul, who died in

a plane crash in 1970, the event has

been held for more than 30 years,

making it the oldest continuous

bull riding competition in the world.

Forty of the best bull riders in

the country compete in a two-day

format. the 15 riders with the top

scores ride a third bull Sunday to

determine the champion.

Schools of thoughttwo convenient college campuses in Del Rio deserve gold stars.

Southwest texas Junior College Del Rio accommodates more than

1,200 students. the numerous programs it offers include accounting,

auto body technology, child development, criminal justice,

cosmetology, microcomputer applications and wildlife management.

Meanwhile, Sul Ross State University Rio Grande College offers

students bachelor's degrees in nearly a dozen fields, as well as

master's degrees in education and business administration. the

campus includes a new complex of buildings that house computer

laboratories, learning centers and an auditorium.

Amistad Res.

Rio Grande

Pecos R.

Comstock

Pumpville

Juno

Del Rio

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VAL VERDE

Del Rio

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GOOd TIMES flOW AT lOCAl RECREATION AREAS

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W hether it’s a relaxing afternoon of swimming and fishing at San Felipe Creek or exploring the scenic coves of Amistad National Recreation Area, the Del Rio area

offers plenty of refreshing water recreation opportunities. Situated along the U.S./Mexico border, Amistad National

Recreation Area is a major draw for outdoor recreation, including everything from boating and fishing to camping and birding. The recreation area – which features a huge man-made reservoir and comprises more than 57,000 acres – welcomed more than 2.5 million visitors in 2009.

“The lake is an international reservoir, with a buoy line marking the U.S./Mexico border,” says Greg Garetz, the park’s chief of education and resource management. “The park’s boundaries extend up the Rio Grande, Devil’s and Pecos rivers, which makes it a great place for paddlers and overnight wilderness trips.”

Indeed, the park features a great mix of open water and secluded coves, and plays host to a unique mix of f lora and fauna.

“Three major eco-regions come together here at Amistad – the Chihuahuan Desert, Edwards Plateau and Tamaulipan Shrubland,” he says. “People are often surprised after driving through miles of desert when they arrive at this clear, blue lake. Boaters come up the Pecos River and see these giant limestone cliffs – it’s just a perfect area for camping, birding and exploring.”

Garetz says the Amistad area also is home to the largest concentrations of rock art in North America, noting that the mysterious paintings date back roughly 4,000 years.

“There’s a lot of archaeology in the area, and depending on the water level, boaters can easily access the paintings in

Panther and Parida Caves,” he says. “Hikers also can take a guided tour at Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site, which sits adjacent to Amistad.”

The park also attracts plenty of anglers, hosting a variety of fishing tournaments throughout the year.

“The tournaments provide a big boost to the local economy,” Garetz says. “They bring in about $30 million a year, generating business for local hotels and restaurants.”

Residents also enjoy fishing and swimming in San Felipe Creek. Featuring the fourth-largest springs in Texas, the San Felipe Area provides the perfect backdrop for community gatherings and recreation.

“Starting around late March, when the weather starts warming up, people begin heading to the creek,” says Anthony Rodriguez, interim superintendent for the City of Del Rio parks, recreation and facilities department. “Two of the most popular areas are Blue Hole Park and the area behind the [Dr. Alfredo Gutierrez Jr.] Amphitheatre. Here, people gather for cookouts, community celebrations and various holidays. And on Easter, people are even allowed to camp out at Blue Hole.”

Recognizing the tremendous value of this popular resource, the City of Del Rio has taken an active role in protecting San Felipe Creek.

“In January, we send out crews to collect litter from the creek, making it cleaner and safer for people to enjoy,” Rodriguez says. “Cane eradication is another important objective, helping make the creek more accessible to visitors while protecting the Devil’s River Minnow – an endangered species. The creek is a major attraction for our community. We want to do everything we can to protect it for future generations.”

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left to right: lake Amistad and the Amistad national recreation area are located in val verde County and provide numerous recreational activities; clear water flows over Tardy dam along the san felipe creek.

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D el Rio’s most abundant natural assets – artesian springs, a robust creek and the confluence of

three rivers – charmed 19th-century pioneers, settlers and investors. Then and now, such factors have motivated people to stay, sink roots in cobbly caliche soil, build and decorate edifices with native limestone blocks and stubbornly safeguard their heritage.

Del Rio’s earliest neighborhoods, San Felipe and south Del Rio, are at

once separated and bound by San Felipe Creek – a natural asset that is as beautiful as it is significant to the city’s very existence. The creek and the springs that feed it were among the key lures for the city’s earliest entrepreneurs, and it still serves as a preferred residential area and focal point for community activities.

San Felipe community pride is evident during events such as Brown Plaza fiestas, large Rotary Park gatherings on the banks of the creek,

dIVERSE lIVING OpTIONS flOW OuTWARd fROM dEl RIO’S EARlIEST NEIGhBORhOOdS

SpringS

StoRy By BIll SONTAGPHotoGRAPHy By jEff AdkINS

EtErnal

new homes are being built near lake Amistad on the north side of del rio.

18 imAgesdelrio.Com del rio 19

and Fourth of July festivities at the Dr. Alfredo Gutierrez Jr. Amphitheater.

San Felipe’s cacophony of ranchera, mariachi and Tejano music floats across the narrow creek into the sedate streetscapes of south Del Rio, its avenues overlapped by soaring pecans, oaks and sycamores. Small adobe or frame houses are interspersed with imposing two-story homes encircled by manicured lawns.

Chihuahua is another residential community in the southern part of Del

Rio, located just northwest of Garfield Avenue, sandwiched between Las Vacas Street and the Union Pacific Railroad tracks. The cultural and spiritual hub of the barrio is St. Joseph Church, which was established in 1927 by Catholic missionaries. Chihuahua also is known for UCO (United Civic Organization) Park, which is on the northern edge of the neighborhood and includes a baseball diamond, bleachers, picnic shelters and a members’ community center.

As Del Rio grew in response to

population and residential demands, newer neighborhoods were developed north of the railroad tracks and the parallel east-west Gibbs Street corridor of commercial development, such as Comalia. Along North Main Street, homes and a school emerged as the North Heights neighborhood in the 1930s and 1940s. There, the area’s popular open space, Star Park, was dedicated in 1932 to the memory of county men who died in World War I. Now it also commemorates the brave U-2

18 imAgesdelrio.Com del rio 19

pilots of the Cold War in the early 1960s. West of North Heights are Del Rio

International Airport, Val Verde County Fairgrounds, Del Rio High School, and the campuses of Sul Ross University and Southwest Texas Junior College.

A complex of connecting open spaces – Del Rio Lions Park, Buena Vista Park and public swimming pool, and Amistad Trails parkway along Fox Drive and Kings Way Boulevard – provide ample walking and exercise opportunities to residents of the

sprawling Buena Vista neighborhood. According to Realtor® Brenda Hunter, subdivisions within Buena Vista have familiar colloquial names such as “the Indian Reservation,” where the developer attempted a Native American theme with street names such as Arrowhead Trail, Warbonnet, Peacepipe, Tomahawk, Medicine Bow and White Feather. Fox Drive homes, Hunter says, were first developed in the early 1960s, while the Indian Reservation began to

f lourish in the 1970s and 1980s.At the far northern margin of Del

Rio city limits is the newest, upscale subdivision, Ceniza Hills, straddling both sides of Agarita Drive. The neighborhood’s families are served by Buena Vista Elementary School. Ceniza Hills is easily found with a skyline search for landmark, side-by-side water towers. In wet spells, the desert beyond the towers is ablaze with color from native namesake shrubbery, cenizo, often mistakenly called “purple sage.”

from left: Historic homes line the neighborhood streets; art classes at Casa de la Cultura are popular with children; mahjong is a popular game at san felipe Country Club; the lounge at san felipe Country Club

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local Flavor

when the Chips Are UpJulio’s CHiPs ConTinues To exPAnd from del rio BAse

Many fine mechanical inventions have come from American garages, but in Del Rio one outbuilding

gave rise to something much tastier: Julio’s Chips.Julio Garcia founded the company not long after he began

making his chips and special seasonings from his home. A chef at the now-defunct Branding Iron restaurant, Garcia had created his own blend of spices for chips, meats and other foods, and quickly was so busy that his wife, Lilia, booted him out of the kitchen and into the garage.

Fast-forward a decade or so, and Julio’s Chips had become a large-scale operation with its own building, a distribution network and even a restaurant. The company’s products can be found throughout Texas and soon will be on grocery shelves in other locales as well. But everything still revolves around the Del Rio base of operations, says Miguel Garcia, president, who recalls just how small the initial outfit was.

“Dad was the salesman, and we were the production crew,” Garcia says of himself and his brothers, who remain involved in different facets of the business. “It really started with the seasonings, which we began to take to stores and meat markets. The chips we just fixed up using old cardboard sheets from the bottom of 24-packs of soda and then covered

with freezer paper. Then we went to freezer bags and eventually to buckets.”

These days, Julio’s operates out of a plant that produces 2.5 tons of chips per day and also features a restaurant on site. Other Garcias involved include sons Pete, who acts as operations manager, and Jose, who operates a second factory and four restaurants in San Angelo. And while Julio himself is retired, his children continue with the same enthusiasm that has made the company a success.

“I can remember what a big deal it was when we got a new fryer,” Miguel Garcia recalls. “Dad started with a small pan on the stove, and we get excited every time we buy anything new for the business which really helps us.”

While the company continues to spread out in different directions, Del Rio is and will always be home, he adds.

“We plan to build a new manufacturing operation here, because we’re out of space where we are,” Garcia says. “Our food brokers say that we should be in San Antonio or Austin, because that would be more centralized for them. But we’re Julio’s from Del Rio, and this is where we want to be. We’re known for being from here, and this is where we want to grow our business.” – Joe Morris

Julio T. garcia and his wife, lillia, in the

dining room at Julio’s restaurant

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J ust minutes from Del Rio rests a manufacturing mecca that’s home to some of the world’s most prominent companies. From

Kimberly-Clark to General Electric, dozens of global leaders have discovered the advantages of maquiladoras located in Northeast Mexico’s Ciudad Acuna. Operating under the North American Free Trade Agreement, the Mexican factories import materials and equipment on a duty-free and tariff-free basis for assembly or manufacturing and re-export the assembled product back to the originating country.

“The main significance of doing business here is the low cost of labor,” says Don Newton, chairman of Acuna-based Border Opportunity Saver Systems. “Companies looking for ‘offshore’ places to manufacture and save money also find that we’re easy to get to, unlike somewhere like China.”

With 115,000 square feet of manufacturing space in Mexico and 60,000 square feet of warehousing and distribution space in the United States, BOSS provides a full range of manufacturing services while adhering to strict federal regulations. The

company provides U.S. management style, multi-shift operations for global giants including Johnson & Johnson, Procter & Gamble and Walmart. Small-business owners who appreciate the cost efficiency and accessibility afforded by maquiladoras also utilize the factories.

“Our entire life is on both sides of the border,” says Kim Canseco, Del Rio resident and entrepreneur. “We work in Mexico but live in Del Rio and have lived that way for generations.”

Canseco’s family-run ranch, Rancho El Ojo de Agua, produces beef cattle and offers premier whitetail-deer

BORdER pROxIMITy BENEfITS BuSINESSES

Made in

StoRy By MElANIE hIllPHotoGRAPHy By jEff AdkINS

Business

Me co

Hadlock & fox manufacturing Co., part of Border opportunity saver systems, sells leather saddles.

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Business

from top left: a leather saddle at Hadlock & fox manufacturing; margie santellanes boxes orders at Hadlock & fox; rancho ojo de Agua’s m-C brand Bolsa bag; saddle stirrups

del rio 25

hunting in the Northern Coahuila, Mexico Canyonlands. In 2009, the environmentally minded Canseco and her family teamed with BOSS to create an accessory line using discarded feed sacks from the ranch and surplus maquiladora seatbelt scraps for handles. Today, Canseco’s eco-friendly Ojo de Agua Bolsas can be purchased online and throughout the U.S. with tags that read “Made with love,” in both English and Spanish.

“There are so many skilled people in Acuna, and we’ve been impressed with their sewing operation and what they can do,” Canseco says. “It’s a very efficient labor force with reasonable prices.”

Located within five industrial parks sprawled over more than 200 acres, Acuna’s maquiladoras are recognized for their healthy labor atmosphere and world-class work force virtually free of labor unions. Workers are exceptionally trained, as local universities and schools tailor programs to meet the specific needs of area employers. Footwear, plastic containers, electronics and automotive parts are just a few of the industries represented in Acuna’s maquiladoras. Conveniently located along the border halfway between the east and west coasts of the United States, Acuna also offers lower prices on product loads and transfers of raw materials and finished products. In addition, Acuna-Del Rio is recognized for having the fastest crossing time on the Mexico-U.S. border, allowing business travelers the security of lodging in the U.S. while enjoying a Mexico commute time of less than 30 minutes.

“We have strong feelings for the people here and are glad to be providing jobs,” Canseco says.

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Biz BriefsBusinesses – BoTH lArge And smAll – THAT HelP define

del rio’s eConomiC ClimATe

BuffAlO GIRlS/ThE BROWN BAGBiz: Boutique and deliBuzz: Appetites can be satisfied and wardrobes may be updated in one convenient stop, thanks to Buffalo Girls and The Brown Bag, next-door downtown Del Rio businesses owned by Shannon Brown. Buffalo Girls sells clothing, shoes, jewelry and home decor, offering brands including Jan Barboglio, JWLA, Ivy Jane, Miss Me, It Jeans, Theme and Yellowbox. The Brown Bag serves up deli food, such as soup, sandwiches and quiche.www.buffalogirlsboutique.com

scorecardBuSINESS AT

A GlANCE

$393,591Retail sales ($1,000)

$11,385Retail sales

per capita:

2,716Total number

of firms:

source: U.s. Census QuickFacts

Business

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R.C. TAxIdERMyBiz: Taxidermy wildlife studioBuzz: R.C. Taxidermy offers mounting services for long-lasting hunting trophies at reasonable prices. Carmen Cantu serves as the head taxidermist after years of practice and study, striving to re-create each animal’s natural habitat by ensuring that the mounts are created with quality products. This wildlife studio is located at 302 E. 4th St. in Del Rio.www.rctaxidermy.com

CASA dE VINO Biz: Wine barBuzz: Customers can relax in the comfortable atmosphere and choose from more than 350 different types of wine at Casa de Vino, a former gas station that was remodeled and reopened as wine bar in 2008. In addition to wine, Casa de Vino serves beer and hors d’oeuvres. This one-of-a-kind Del Rio establishment is located at 7991 Hwy 90 W.(830) 774-1968

SuGAR & SpICEBiz: Flower and gift deliveryBuzz: Sugar & Spice provides fresh flowers and gifts for all occasions, and allows customers to conveniently place their orders online 24-hours a day. Deliveries are made throughout the Del Rio area with flowers arriving to their destination in quality condition, complete with a personalized message from the sender. Sugar & Spice also offers services for special events.www.ftdfloristsonline.com/designsbysugarandspice

uNION CAféBiz: CaféBuzz: The Union Café is best known for delicious fish tacos but also serves other Mexican-inspired food, including complimentary homemade chips and salsa. While it is not open for dinner, this local favorite stays hopping throughout lunchtime. The café is in Del Rio at 611 E. De La Rosa St.(830) 774-4174

Riding bulls is not an easy

business. Neither is treating

cancer. If you get bucked off,

the only solution is to get

back on. After 32 years of

treating cancer aggressively,

we could say the same about

the practice of oncology. You

may get bucked off and if you

do, you dust yourself off and

get ready for your next draw.

Dr. Susan Taylor and her

staff offer cancer patients

personalized care and the

latest medical science has to

offer. We’re not bullfighters,

although we are pretty tough.

Just like you.

1301 Ave. G • Del Rio, TX 78840 • (830) 775-5800 tel • (830) 775-8811 fax

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taking the lead for Del RioCHAmBer ProgrAms Bridge indusTries And BoosT eConomy

Just a quick two-step from the Texas-Mexico border, the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce is hard at work bridging

local industries and boosting the economy, one business at a time. Working with the region’s three largest financial contributors – Laughlin Air Force Base, tourism and industry – the chamber is finding new ways to stay a step ahead.

In 2010, the chamber continues its mission by welcoming the first Leadership Del Rio class. Composed of 20 local professionals from diverse industries, the nonprofit leadership organization provides ongoing opportunities for personal and community growth.

“We’re going to encourage members to talk among themselves about some kind of project that the class will work together on, whether that’s promoting youth leadership or identifying some type of problem to solve,” says Janna Castloo, coordinator for Leadership Del Rio.

Applications will be accepted May through June 2010, with the first class meeting in September during a two-day retreat. Castloo, a Del Rio resident who has helped coordinate leadership programs in other cities, says the program is a win-win for members and the city alike.

“The program is designed to encourage networking and leadership in the community and give people the confidence and tools they need to take on leadership roles,” Castloo says. “So many cities see they have to continually replenish their pool of volunteers, and the leadership program is a formal

plan to do that.”Employer involvement also is essential, as class members

meet one day a month for nine months. And since the nonprofit organization is funded primarily by business and individual contributions, Leadership Del Rio will offer numerous sponsorship opportunities as well.

Guided by its annual Program of Work, the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce also supports programs aimed at utilizing and promoting the region’s many human and economic resources and creating a better appreciation of the vibrant area. Chamber members steer committees and programs ranging from border patrol and legislative relations to education and economic development. Additional groups dedicated to tourism and conventions, transportation, and lake and water resource management help fulfill that mission, while Red Carpet Ambassadors provide a distinctive source for promoting member businesses. Members also receive a membership plaque, monthly newsletter and access to exclusive advertising and networking opportunities.

Additional projects of the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce include monthly member gatherings, the annual chamber banquet, economic forums and the Annual Wild Game Dinner. Sponsored by the chamber’s special events committee, this popular December event features a variety of native and wild game. Valuable prize raffles and one-of-a-kind vendor giveaways help complete the memorable night.

– Melanie Hill

Business | Chamber Report

The del rio Chamber of CommerceJ

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GOVERNMENT OffICES

del rio City manager

109 w. Broadway St.

(830) 774-8558

del rio mayor office

109 w. Broadway St.

(830) 774-8558

del rio municipal Court

109 w. Broadway St.

(830) 774-8506

federal Bureau-investigation

111 e. Broadway St.

(830) 775-0076

us district

Court Clerk

111 e. Broadway St. # l100

(830) 703-2054

us district Judge

111 e. Broadway St.

(830) 703-2038

us magistrate Judge

111 e. Broadway St.

(830) 703-2050

us marshals svc

111 e. Broadway St. # 106

(830) 703-2075

val verde County

Court At law

400 Pecan St.

(830) 774-7575

val verde County Judge

400 Pecan St.

(830) 774-7501

val verde

County sheriff

(830) 774-7513

val verde

district Clerk

100 e. Broadway St. # 1

(830) 774-7538

val verde

regional medical Ctr

801 n. Bedell Ave.

(830) 775-8566

EMplOyMENT

55Agriculture, forestry & fishing Jobs

420Construction Jobs

635manufacturing Jobs

532Transportation & Communications Jobs

628Wholesale Trade Jobs

3,421retail Trade Jobs

844finance, insurance & real estate Jobs

4,726service Jobs

3,065Public Administration Jobs

EduCATION

4,648some College

1,081Associates

2,610Bachelors

1,555graduate

Business | economic Profile

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more facts, stats and community information, including relocation tools and links to resources.

ECONOMIC OVERVIEWtourism contributes greatly to the local economy since the region is

a tourist destination for winter texans, birders and sport fishermen.

dEl RIO

information provided by:

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A variety of nice homes are located on del rio’s south side.

image Gallery

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PHotoGRAPHy By jEff AdkINS

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stained-glass windows decorate the sanctuary of first united methodist Church.

image Gallery

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lanterns glow on front of old sacred Heart Catholic Church downtown.

PHotoGRAPHy By jEff AdkINS

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A building entrance in downtown del rio

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Photo essayimage Gallery

del rio 35

sacred Heart Catholic Church

PHotoGRAPHy By jEff AdkINS

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Most Major Insurances Accepted

2201 N. Bedell Ave., Ste. ADel Rio, Texas 78840 (830) 775-8700 www.cadenafamilypractice.com

Thank you for the opportunity to serve Del Rio and the surrounding communities for the past 14 years.

Drs. Antonio & Veronica Cadena

• CompleteFamilyCare

• CompletePhysicals

• In-houseLaboratory andLabInterpretation

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• MedicalManagement ofChronicDisease

• TreatmentofAcuteIllness

• CompleteInpatient HospitalCare

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education

there is a shortage of engineers in the United States, but students at Del Rio High School are doing their part to

help remedy that situation.More than 180 students at Del Rio High are enrolled in a

program called Project Lead the Way, a nationwide initiative to address the country’s shortage of engineers. PLTW is designed as a four-year curriculum that fits into any student’s schedule, and is taught in conjunction with traditional math and science courses.

High school students ultimately take five rigorous, relevant, reality-based PLTW courses that help them become better problem solvers. The courses are called principles of engineering, engineering design, digital electronics, computer-integrated manufacturing, and engineering design and development.

Del Rio High teachers Brad Billeaudeau and Bill Davis run the PLTW engineering program that has been in place at the school since 2005. They are proud to point out that 185 students are enrolled in 2010, compared to 15 students when the program began six years ago.

By the way, those 15 students today are all currently enrolled in colleges, attending universities such as Rice, Texas A&M and the University of Texas.

“All of the kids involved in this program should eventually be successful in the work world, getting into careers for any kind of engineering design company – from designing makeup for Cover Girl to designing space shuttles for NASA,” Billeaudeau says. “And it’s not just boys who are interested in the program here at Del Rio High. Right now, the ratio is

about 60 percent boys to 40 percent girls. That means about 75 girls are currently involved in this excellent engineering initiative.”

The engineering lab at Del Rio High features equipment such as woodworking tools, a robotic arm, mills, a stress analyzer, 48 computer work stations and an oscilloscope.

“Some of our kids are taking Advanced Placement calculus and PLTW’s engineering design and development course and such,” Davis says. “If they had stuck with just the academic route, they never would have gained any hands-on use of tools for building things.”

Del Rio High is part of the San Felipe-Del Rio Consolidated Independent School District, which in 2005 specifically went looking for a high school curriculum that would help develop the local manufacturing workforce. Del Rio shares a border with Ciudad Acuna, Mexico, which has many maquiladora (twin plant) factories that import materials from the United States, then assemble or manufacture the materials before shipping them back to the U.S.

“Thanks to the PLTW program, these twin plants are interested in apprenticeship programs with our students right now,” says Dianne Trevino, career and technical education coordinator with the San Felipe-Del Rio Consolidated Independent School District. “Then ultimately, they are looking at Del Rio kids to come back as university graduates.”

– Kevin Litwin

what’s the Big ideas?del rio sTudenTs enroll in nATionAl engineering CurriCulum

Pre-engineering student Carlos rubio programs a robotic arm.

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Sports & Recreation

greenwood Park is located in the middle of downtown.

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Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and the city of Del Rio wants its

residents to notice how the community is sprucing up in 2010.

Anthony Rodriguez with the City of Del Rio Parks, Recreation & Facilities says there are a number of significant projects on tap for the year that will yield significant improvements to residents’ play places.

Enhancements have been taking place in Del Rio since the first of the year, including a graffiti removal initiative and upgrades to various parks. One such endeavor was Onslow Park, which underwent pavilion and bathroom renovations that were completed in January 2010. New playground equipment was also installed at the popular recreation outlet.

Another site that is being upgraded in 2010 is Carranza Park, which has

new playground equipment already in place. By August 2010, pavilion and bathroom renovations are scheduled to be completed.

“We will also be installing new playground equipment this year at other locations throughout the city, including 14th Street Park and the skate park,” Rodriguez says. “In addition, new playgrounds will be installed in 2010 at both the amphitheatre and the Northside Walking Trail.”

Rodriguez adds that the parks department is also working with the city manager’s office to potentially construct a couple of new parks in Del Rio in the near future. One park is being planned for Noriega Street in the San Felipe area, and another on South Main Street in the downtown district.

“The land has already been secured for the Noriega Street park, with city

officials needing to design the facility and then order equipment,” he says. “And the South Main Street site will be more of a place where people can relax and eat lunch, with benches and tables instead of playground equipment.”

Meanwhile, the parks department also has been tackling upgrades to the two public pools within the city. The Buena Vista pool has been undergoing bathroom pavilion renovations that include addressing some roof issues, while numerous maintenance upgrades have been addressed at the Moore Park pool. Those improvements include the addition of an all-new pool f loor to increase safety for swimmers.

“The pool renovations were to be completed in time for a public opening during the first week of June 2010,” Rodriguez says.

– Kevin Litwin

Play Places Get a Boost PArks dePArTmenT TACkles severAl imProvemenT ProJeCTs

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Health & wellness

when Polly Davenport decided to accept the job at Val Verde

Regional Medical Center, she arrived there with a lofty goal. Her mission was to establish the hospital as medically renowned not only in the Del Rio community, but throughout the state of Texas and beyond.

Davenport became CEO of Val Verde Regional in February 2009, and since then has been busy recruiting more top physicians and expanding the volume of medical services at the longstanding hospital. Her vision today continues to be to eventually meet all of the health-care needs for the fast-growing Del Rio community.

“We have been an important part of the history of Val Verde County for five

decades and are proud of the fact that we serve patients regardless of their ability to pay,” Davenport says. “Simply said, we are health-care providers who care for the people of our community who need medical help. Our sincere hope is that the residents of this region will trust our medical family to help care for your own families, should you ever need us.”

Davenport says Val Verde Regional is especially important to residents of Del Rio and the surrounding area because the next closest tertiary medical center is approximately 150 miles away. For that reason, she wants Val Verde Regional to continue building its hospital staff to provide as many medical services as possible.

“For example, we recently

implemented inpatient renal dialysis specifically for our kidney patients so that if they do become ill, they don’t have to be transported to San Antonio or San Angelo,” she says. “We have excellent radiology and laboratory services on site, and excel in care whether a patient is an outpatient or needs to be admitted into our comfortable hospital setting.”

The medical center is also important to the local economy. It is one of the top 10 employers in Val Verde County with 350 employees, and 45 of those staff members have more than 25 years of service with the Del Rio facility.

Val Verde Regional has 50 registered nurses and three general surgeons on staff, along with four dentistry

Passionate People Providing Compassionate CarevAl verde regionAl mediCAl CenTer serves Wide region

40 imAgesdelrio.Com del rio 41

specialists. There is also a dietitian who oversees all meals served to patients admitted to the 93-bed medical center.

Departments at the hospital include obstetrics and gynecology, oncology, pediatrics, podiatry, nephrology, endocrinology and urology. There is also a women’s health center, a speech therapy program, cardiology procedures and orthopedic procedures.

“In addition, Val Verde Regional has a 24-hour Level IV trauma center, a 24-hour EMS service and around-the-clock intensive care services,” Davenport says. “We also offer a specific care program for senior adults as well as a hospice program. Our hospital has passionate people providing compassionate care.”

– Kevin Litwin

val verde regional medical Center

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Del Rio, Queen City of the Rio Grande, boasts a rich stew of

dedicated artists and performers who keep the lights on in galleries and on stage. The arts scene is defined by local talent as well as traveling shows and exhibitions, including visual arts, dance troupes, classical musicians, folk singers and nostalgia entertainers. Complementing all of these offerings are the warmth and hospitality that embrace patrons of the arts.

A hub of cultural performance, exhibition and education is Del Rio

Council for the Arts, locally called The Firehouse, located at 120 E. Garfield Ave. in the city’s historic downtown. The colloquial name comes from its two-story, brick-red 1922 edifice – Del Rio’s first city hall, fire station, police department and jail – that has housed the arts organization since 1977.

More than 180 linear feet of gallery walls exhibit up to 18 exhibitions of two- and three-dimensional works annually.

The Firehouse is also an informal, relaxed entertainment venue, as well,

hosting “On the Patio” on the third Saturday of each month. The event features acoustic musicians and refreshments. The venue also hosts “Coffee Room,” an open mic night filled with poetry, music and, of course, java. Visit www.delrioarts.com for more information.

Del Rio and sister city Ciudad Acuña, México, straddle the border and share common Hispanic culture. Preserving those traditions is El Comité del Pueblo’s Casa De La Cultura, located at 302 Cantu St. on historic Brown Plaza

Art in the Heart of the Queendel rio BoAsTs riCH sTeW of dediCATed ArTs orgAnizATions

Arts & CultureJe

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The Real Estate Company you can trust with professionals you can rely on!

Residential • Commercial • Ranch • Water Front

Janita Hinds Real Estate

1800 Ave. GDel Rio, TX 78840

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visitors enjoy a colorful quilt show at the del rio Council for the Arts, which is located at the firehouse.

in the San Felipe community of Del Rio. The Casa focuses on educational programs for children and adults: ballet folklórico, rondalla, ceramics, piñata-making, computers, drawing, painting and literacy. More than 42,000 participate annually in its programs. Visit www.casadelaculturadelrio.com for more information.

Speaking of local artists, Del Rio resident Pam Bunch showcases her own work along with that of others in her gallery, the Lee-Bunch Studio & Gallery, located on the second floor of one of Del Rio’s historic buildings, Del Rio Loan Company, at 100 W. Greenwood St. The gallery displays works of a dozen local and regional artists. The homey, aroma-filled gallery brims with pastels, watercolors, oils, hand-painted china,

pottery, fused glass and fabrics. Visit www.leebunchstudiogallery.com for the gallery’s schedule.

Lee-Bunch Studio & Gallery, the Casa and the Firehouse, along with Falcón Studio Arts Gallery, participate in First Friday Art Walk each month. An estimated 15,000 people attend these events, enjoying visual arts exhibitions, performing arts and refreshments.

Performing arts also play an important role in Del Rio culture, and this is best experienced at Paul Poag Theatre, located at 746 S. Main St. With floor and the balcony seating, the

historic theater accommodates an audience of 476.

Manager Leno Hernandez says the diversity of the community is reflected in the venue’s variety of programming.

Follow Paul Poag Theatre on Twitter – PAULPOAGTHEATRE – to stay up-to-date on the venue’s schedule.

– Bill Sontag

44 imAgesdelrio.Com

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Val Verde Regional Medical Center www.vvrmc.org

Vista Verde Medical Plaza www.shannonhealth.com

2602 Veterans Blvd.

Del Rio, TX 78840

(830) 775-8518 Tel

(830) 774-1780 Fax

century21@delriorealestate.comwww.delriorealestate.com

Brenda Hunter & Assoc. LLC

COMMuNITy ORGANIzATIONS

AmeriCAn gi forum (830) 775-1315

AmeriCAn legion (830) 778-2159

Boys & girls CluB of del rio (830) 775-7927

CommuniTy CounCil of souTHWesT TexAs (830) 768-2854

del rio CHAmBer of CommerCe (830) 775-3551

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del rio 45

Community Profile

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COMMuNITy OVERVIEWlocated in the central border region of texas area across from the

international Bridge, 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.

dEl RIO

Edwards-GrahamInsurance Agency Since 1906

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Rachel A. Beavan, Agent (830) 775-2411 • Toll-free: (800) 753-0102

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ClIMATE

62.8Avg max Jan Temp

39.7Avg min Jan Temp

96.2Avg max July Temp

74.3Avg min July Temp

pOpulATION

48,485Total Population

information provided by:

www.shannonhealth.com