Visitor's Guide June/July 2020

June/July 2020

Visitor’s Guide Replenish your soul Cooks Slough Nature Park PAGE 7

Park Yourself Benches painted by local artists PAGE 12

Round of Golf Uvalde Memorial Golf Course PAGE 4

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CONTENTS 4 Uvalde Memorial Golf Course 5 Army Air Force Contact Pilot School 6 Uvalde Memorial Park 7 Cooks Slough Nature Park 8 Uvalde Convention and Visitors Bureau 9 John Nance Garner – vice-president 9 City of Uvalde swimming pool 10 El Progreso Memorial Library has it all 11 Los Palominos ROUND OF GOLF

UVALDE AVIATION MUSEUM PLAYGROUND, TRAILS

REPLENISH YOUR SOUL PLAN YOUR STAY CACTUS JACK

DIVE IN TO COOL DOWN GOOD READING AND HISTORY

12 Benches painted by local artists 14 Hunter’s Roundup 15 Bingo, woodworking, exercise and more 15 Located in Concan 17 Wes Cooksey Park 18 Uvalde Grand Opera House 21 Local school and colleges/university 22 Garner State and Lost Maples PARK YOURSELF READY, AIM

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Visitor’s Guide is a production of the Uvalde Leader-News .

©Copyright 2020

Publisher/Owner: Craig Garnett . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . cgarnett@ulnnow .com Managing Editor: Meghann Garcia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . mgarcia@ulnnow .com Graphic Designer/Sales/Layout: Gloria Resma . . . . . . . . . . . . . gresma@ulnnow .com Advertising Executive:Celeste Navarro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . cnavarro@ulnnow .com Classified Manager: Norma Ybarra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .nybarra@ulnnow .com Staff Writers Melissa Federspill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . mfederspill@ulnnow .com Julye Keeble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . jkeeble@ulnnow .com

Visitor’s Guide June/July 2020

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Front cover photo by Penney Photo, Uvalde, Texas .

110 N. EAST STREET UVALDE, TX 78801 facebook.com/uvaldeleadernews

Phone: 830-278-3335 | Fax: 830-278-9191

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@uvaldenews

Anyone for a round of golf? after fertilizer and algaerepelling treatments created a good Bermuda grass green base, with clean tee boxes and welldefined fairways.

Full of large trees and inviting emerald grass, the golf course is a great place to spend a day relaxing in Uvalde, tooling around on a golf cart and enjoying your good walk, spoiled, as the saying goes.

☞

Golf is a great way to enjoy some fresh air, and visitors can get in some exercise while taking in the lush greenery on the 18-hole Uvalde Memorial Golf Course. Built in 1940 and maintained by the City of Uvalde, the course is open Tuesday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The course is located along the Leona River at 221 East Doughty St., and the club house may be reached to arrange equipment rentals and tee times at 830-278-6155.

In April, under the direction of golf course coordinator June Ybarra, golf course supervisor Larry Leach, and parks and recreation director Rob Fowler, course staff has been working to improve the green.

They have been working on course maintenance, creating a specialized seasonal schedule to keep the area attractive and functional.

In April, consultant Matt Cowan, who served as golf course superintendent at the Austinbased Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa, made a visit to offer his expertise.

Cowan noted the social distancing protocols implemented at the course are handled well, and the course greens are looking strong

Julye Keeble|Leader-News

Hole two has a par of three on the Uvalde Memorial Golf Course. The course is open Tuesday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Julye Keeble|Leader-News

☞ Near the second hole of

the Uvalde Memorial Golf Course lies a planting bed featuring colorful zinnias, which Uvalde Parks and Recreation director Rob Fowler said is maintained by a 93-year-old patron.

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Army Air Force Contact Pilot School turned museum There’s an abundance of sights to see at the Uvalde Municipal Airport, especially for fans of airplane watching and history buffs.

The Uvalde airport is a converted Army Air Force Contact Pilot School used during World War II that was deactivated in 1945.

It is also home to the Uvalde Aviation Museum.

The base was later deeded to Uvalde for use as a municipal airport, and some of the buildings were later purchased by Southwest Texas Junior College and Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District.

According to the Texas State Historical Association, in the late 1940s, four hangars, a control tower and several runways were converted to accommodate a flight-training operation under Julian Dart and used by Trans-Texas Airlines.

The museum is housed in an original Army air field hangar and features displays of World War II aircraft and memorabilia.

Entry is free to the public.

The museum is located at 201 Sul Ross Dr. and is open Tuesday and Friday.

There is also opportunity for dining, where visitors to the airport and museum can also enjoy a meal on the patio of local restaurant Hangar 6 while watching aircraft come and go.

Melissa Federspill|Leader-News

The Uvalde Aviation Museum, located at the Uvalde Municipal Airport, houses World War II aircraft and memorabilia. Entry is free to the public.

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Play, walk, skateboarding: Memorial Park has it all Uvalde Memorial Park is one of approximately a dozen recreational spaces maintained by the City of Uvalde, and it offers a lit amphitheater on the Leona River, a volleyball court, playground equipment, a walking trail and a nine-hole disc golf course.

Located on East Main Street in Uvalde, between Wood Street and First Street, the sprawling park has been in existence for more than 100 years.

In the 1990s, a walking trail was added to the river bed along with new playground equipment, benches, a pavilion and picnic tables. The original tennis courts were converted to sand volleyball courts.

In 2015, a skateboarding ramp area was added to what was originally known as Grove Park and the local landmark is a memorial to fallen World War I soldiers.

The disc golf course was completed in 2013, opening in November at the south end of Memorial Park, and discs may be purchased at the golf course shop.

Disc golf is a sport in which players throw a disc at a target using rules similar to those in golf. Players complete a hole by throwing discs from a tee area toward a target, then throwing again from where the previous throw landed until the target is reached. The number of throws a player uses to reach the targets are tallied in relation to par, and players seek to complete each hole in the lowest number of total throws.

See the Uvalde Disc Golf Association Facebook page for information on tournaments, or to find fellow players, at https:// www.facebook.com/groups/378785308828985.

Park history

In 1927, the Grove Park was utilized for a Texas Under Six Flags pageant. While directing the pageant, Mrs. Guy Dean became interested in creating a park in the Grove. Then-Mayor H.P. Hornby, founder of the Uvalde Leader-News, created a park commission with Dean serving as chairman.

Plans were then made to dedicate the park on Armistice Day, Nov. 11, 1927, in honor of young men from Uvalde County who had given their lives in World War I. An entrance gateway was designed by Henry T. Phelps, who also designed the Uvalde County Courthouse, with four native stone columns with electric lights on top. Between the gates was to be a monument topped by a cast concrete eagle on top of a globe. A prisoner at the county jail, who turned out to be a stonemason, was enlisted to work on the park.

Nowadays, Uvalde Memorial Park is used for community cultural and sporting events, family celebrations and recreation, offering picnic tables and barbecue stations.

Julye Keeble|Leader-News

A basket at the nine-hole disc golf course at Uvalde Memorial Park. The course is laid out on the banks of the Leona River, and the park also offers a walking trail lined with benches.

Welcome Visitors to Uvalde and the surrounding area

You have come to one of the most beautiful regions in Texas. We encourage you to spend some time here. Visit our landmarks. Shop in our area stores. Try our restaurants for some of the most delicious foods in the state. Know that you are always welcome.

Main Branch - 200 E. Nopal Uvalde, Texas • 278-6231 6 VISITOR’S GUIDE

JUNE/JULY 2020

Visit one of our ATMs in Uvalde or one of our branches.

8 DRIVE-UP ATMs LOCATED AT • Main Bank - 200 E. Nopal, one block off Hwy 90 • Main Street Branch - Corner of College Lane & Hwy 90 • Branch locations in Camp Wood, Carrizo Springs, Concan, Leakey, Sabinal and Utopia 5 WALK-UP ATMs LOCATED INSIDE AT • Mr. Cartender Main West Plaza • Minits - 800 E. Main • Minit-Mart - Hwy 83N • Uvalde Memorial Hospital - 1025 Garner Field Road • Dimmit Regional Hospital - 704 Hospital Drive

Get lost in nature to replenish your soul Nature lovers, dragonfly hunters and birding enthusiasts will find an abundance of wildlife at Cooks Slough Nature Park, an off-the-beaten path attraction located just south of Uvalde.

First opened in May of 2007, the park offers 25 acres of wetland, wildlife viewing stations that overlook a small lake, benches and walking trails.

It is part of the city’s wastewater treatment plant, where water is naturally filtered through a multi-step process before it enters the Leona River.

This natural process offers an outdoor educational

experience, where individuals can see the benefits of a reclaimed natural habitat that was once a landfill.

Common sightings, according to signage located at the park, include herons, black-bellied whistling ducks, shore birds, raptors and monarch butterflies.

Admission to the park is free. The park is located on County Road 106, which is located directly across from Farm-to-Market Road 140. Follow County Road 106 until it dead ends at the park.

For more information, contact 830-278-4115.

Melissa Federspill|Leader-News

Signage at the entrance of Cooks Slough Nature Park. The preserve offers visitors viewing stations for wildlife, walking trails, and benches.

Melissa Federspill|Leader-News

A wildlife viewing station at Cooks Slough Nature Park overlooking the wetland area. The nature park is free and open to the public.

The City of Uvalde says…

WELCOME There is much to see and do in our beautiful town and we are glad you are here. Come, enjoy and visit our friendly hometown merchants.

Sites to see…

• John King Fishers grave site • Janey Slaughter Briscoe Grand Opera House • Uvalde Skate Park • Uvalde Memorial Park • Cooks Slough Nature Park • 18-hole Uvalde Memorial Golf Course • El Jardin de los Heroes Park

VISITOR’S GUIDE JUNE/JULY 2020 7

CVB can help plan your stay DEBRA STIFFLEMIRE

Visitors and recent Uvalde transplants alike can look to the Uvalde Convention and Visitors Bureau for maps or information and advice about activities and entertainment in Uvalde and the surrounding area.

Open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, the bureau is continuously promoting tourism,

El Progreso Memorial Library

WE ARE OPEN WITH "COME AND GO" SERVICE TO THE PUBLIC. New Library Hours: Monday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.,10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Saturday.

Check our website and Facebook page for updated information 301 W. Main Street • Uvalde, Texas

(830) 278-2017 www.elprogreso.org

conventions and overnight stays to the city of Uvalde.

Appointments may be made by calling 830-278-4115, or visitors may stop by the office at 300 E. Main St. Just knock and give them a moment to don their masks.

Debra Stifflemire serves as agency director.

The Uvalde Convention and Visitors Bureau supports

the interests of the tourism industry as a whole, and though every person who walks in the office door may have a different need, the wide variety of attractions in the Uvalde area make it possible to find something for everyone.

A tourism video depicting points of interest can be found at http://www.visituvalde.com.

Uvalde Main Street manager Susan Rios (left) and Uval-de Convention and Visitors Bureau execu-tive director Debra Stif-flemire perch on a painted bench, part of a downtown art project the duo spearheaded.

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JUNE/JULY 2020

Dive into a cool refreshing pool The city of Uvalde swimming pool will be open for daily summer operations from June 22 through Aug. 23, and a maximum of 20 guests will be allowed at one time due to pandemic safety precautions being enforced. The pool will be open Tuesday through Sunday from 2-6 p.m., and private party rentals are available. Fees for using the pool are $2 for children 13 years old and younger, and $4 for anyone 14 years of age and older. Swimmers younger than 10 must be accompanied by an adult at all times, and a lifeguard is on duty while the pool is in use. For more informa-tion call Rob Fowler at 830-278-7531.

Uvalde Leader-News file photo

Historical figures Dolph Briscoe Jr., John Nance Garner and Lyndon B. Johnson have a conversation in front of Garner’s home in Uvalde.

According to the Briscoe Center for American History at the University of Texas, Garner – who served as vice president under President Franklin D. Roosevelt – was a mentor to Dolph Briscoe, who would go on to become governor of Texas. Both men were from Uvalde and became important political figures from Texas.

“Cactus Jack” 32nd vice-president John Nance Garner The Briscoe-Garner Museum, located at 333 N. Park St., offers an array of exhibits honoring the lateTexas Gov. Dolph Briscoe Jr. and the late U.S. Vice President John Nance Garner, who were both Uvalde residents.

Admission to the museum is free.

The museum was once the home of Garner, who lived there for 30-plus years. It is under the directorship of Richelle Runyon.

The museum is part of the Briscoe Center for American History, a division of the University of Texas system.

Briscoe served as the Texas governor from 1973-79. According to the Briscoe Center for American History, during his six years as governor, he presided during a period of reform in the state government as the Texas population grew and commerce expanded.

Garner, known as “Cactus Jack,” was the 32nd-vice president of the United States from 1933 to 1941, serving with president Franklin D. Roosevelt.

The first floor of the museum documents the career of John Garner, and the second floor is dedicated to Briscoe.

The museum has been temporarily closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

VISITOR’S GUIDE JUNE/JULY 2020 9

Get lost in the pages of a good book Artwork, archives and more await you

☞

El Progreso Memorial Library and Virginia W. Davis Archives of Southwest Texas located at 301 W. Main Street, Uvalde.

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Along with being a great place to check out books, El Progreso Memorial Library, located at 301 W. Main St., offers a variety of programming, computers, and a 3-D printer for community use.

It’s also a hub for activities MENDELL for people of all ages, complete MORGAN with an art gallery featuring local artists.

During the summer, the library hosts a reading program open to all age groups.

This year’s theme of “Imagine Your Story” begins on June 29, and offers the added opportunity for readers to write their story as they see it and be

a part of the Artist of the Month wall during August.

Individuals wishing to participate should register in person at the library and pick up their reading logs. Logs will be available at the library beginning June 1.

There are also prizes for children and adults.

For children ages 4-13, there will be various prizes and one grand prize bicycle for boys and girls in each age group.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, visitors to the library will be required to wear face masks and have their temperature taken before entering. Social distancing measures are also in place.

The library is under the direction of Mendell Morgan, who can be reached at 830-2782017.

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Presenting the award-winning Los Palominos What would have been the 24th-annual Palomino Fest, traditionally held over the Labor Day Weekend, has been canceled for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but those looking to enjoy music by musical band Los Palominos can still download a copy of their latest album.

The Grammy Awardwinning Tejano music group released a new album in October of 2019, entitled Con La Fuerza De Un Huracán” and the title track is a ballad

Los Palominos, said, “We’re Uvalde,” Arreola said.

1996 by Los Palominos. excited because the first Plans are being made for Since its inception, the single got a good response.

Palomino Fest has generated the Palomino Fest celebration Duelo is one of the biggest next year, set for Sept. 2-5, over $225,000 in support norteño bands around.”

2021. The Uvalde Festival for Southwest Texas Junior “Mi Obsesión,” an earlier and Events Association, in College students and includes hit song recorded by Los coordination with Southwest a professional rodeo, carnival Palominos rides, a downtown parade and Texas Junior on their live music.

College, awardproduces the The Los Palominos album winning annual event is available for purchase now album which was at www.freddiestore.com and “Obsesión,” founded in on all major digital platforms. was also written by Treviño, who later recorded it 2nd Location – The Local Fix "On the Go" himself with a different opening this SUMMER (424 W. Main.) band.

Los Julio, Johnny, James and Jorge Palominos Arreola (left to right) members of Grammy Award-winning Tejano won a Latin music band Los Palominos, apGrammy for pear on the cover of their new Best Norteño album, “Con La Fuerza De Un 2001 E. Main • Uvalde Huracán.” The album was released Album for in October of 2019.

(830) 900-7183 “Piénsalo” in 2017, which featured multiple hit songs such as “Me Muero,” “Cuando Economic development te Enamoras,” “Tuyo Quiero Ser” and the title track. They through historic preservation. won a Grammy for Best Tejano Discover what’s happening Performance with “Por Eso Te Amo” in 1999, and have won and what opportunities are two other Latin Grammys in available!

2000 and 2007, both for Best Tejano Album.

“Next year will be 25 years since Palomino Fest began, and we can’t wait to be celebrating and have everything back to normal around the country and in

For cool, refreshing drink stop by…

Promoting

Pete Luna|Leader-News

James Arreola, a member of Grammy Award-winning Uvalde Tejano band Los Palominos, plays at the annual Palomino Fest. The celebration, which has been held for about 23 years, helps raise money for student scholarships to Southwest Texas Junior College.

featuring Óscar Iván Treviño, lead vocalist of Duelo. Treviño composed the song, the title of which references a longing for a love from whom they have been parted, and how they plan to greet them with the force of a hurricane.

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Main Street Uvalde

Offices inside the Uvalde Convention & Visitors Bureau

300 E. Main Street • Uvalde • 830-278-4115 www.mainstreetuvalde.com

VISITOR’S GUIDE JUNE/JULY 2020 11

Park Yourself in Uvalde

Downtown Uvalde offers a mecca for shoppers, with small businesses selling clothing, jewelry, artwork, antiques and more, and it now features functional art in the form of painted benches.

The Main Street Uvalde program, with the support of the Uvalde Convention and Visitors Bureau, has dotted the downtown areas with colorfully bedecked benches intended to beautify the area while providing much-needed seating.

The “Park Yourself in Uvalde” project is intended to promote area artists and help draw more art-loving visitors to the area.

The idea, as conceived for Uvalde by Main Street manager Susan Rios, has so far resulted in 13 original artworks in Uvalde in the form of victorian-style oak benches painted by area artists, with

two more in the works.

Bench locations include former Uvaldean Dale Evans and words to her song “Happy Trails” painted by Ellen Balke in the 100 block of North Getty Street. Balke also created the “Hometown News” bench installed at 110 N. East St. Artist Linda Quintero of Hondo painted a bench entitled “Colorful Culture” with a mariachi starry night theme, located at 201 N. Getty St. She also painted the heroic, “Devotion to Duty” bench honoring first reponders placed at 117 S. Getty St. Artist and teacher Abel Ortiz painted “Besame Bench” depicting Frida Kahlo, located in the 200 block of North Getty Street.

A bench entitled “Tree City,”

by Uvalde High School senior Rayleigh Watson depicts Uvalde’s history with trees and a dedication in the roots

s der-New

eble|Lea

Julye Ke

to the late Laura Jones at 301 S. Getty St. “Spread Joy” by Encina Art Center collective member Sandra Hopper was placed at 214 S. Getty St. and artist Sharon Fowler painted “Uvalde Flora” installed at 115 S West St. “A Loving Companion” by artist Bea Ybarra, depicting the joys of fostering and adopting pets, is at 104 W. the bench is painted for the North St. Ybarra also painted Before Main Street project, “Park Yourself “Be Still and Know” installed in Uvalde.” in front of St. Philips’s Episcopal Church at 343 N. The bench was placed at 111 Getty St. N. Getty St. “Fiesta de Abejas” Arlene Nanney created celebrating bees and honey, a “Farm to Table” bench an intrinsic part of Uvalde’s depicting the state of Texas history, may be seen at 229 with an Angora goat and a N. Getty St. It was painted by cow alongside sunflowers, artist Elina Garza. representing the Texas AgriArtist Kay Brieden created Women’s spirit and our rural a “Cactus Jack” themed bench agricultural community. It is depicting former U.S. Vice located in the 100 block of President John Nance Garner.

South Getty Street.

inted 0 lving pa 0 jec t invostalled in the 1 ro p rt a n in w is to d n n lke a e d ow art of thy artist Ellen Ba Trails” p b “ Happy s , was created treet. benche f North G ett y S block o

“ Hometo Uvalde wn News” by LeaderNews atartist Ellen Balk Julye Ke 110 N . E eb e ast St. is loc ated in fr le|Leader-News ont of th e

Julye Keeble|Leader-News

Artist Linda Quintero of Hondo painted “Colorful Culture” with a mariachi starry night theme. It is located at 201 N. Getty St.

12 VISITOR’S GUIDE

JUNE/JULY 2020

Julye Keeble|Leader-News

The “Besame Bench” depicting Frida Kahlo, by artist Abel Ortiz is in the 200 block of North Getty Street.

Julye Keeble|Leader-News

“Spread Joy” by Sandra Hopper was placed at 214 S. Getty St.

Julye Keeble|Leader-News

“A Loving Companion” by artist Bea Ybarra, depicting the joys of fostering and adopting pets, may be seen at 104 W. North St.

Julye Keeble|Leader-News

“Fiesta de Abejas” celebrating bees and honey by artist Elina Garza may be seen at 229 N. Getty St.

Julye Keeble|Leader-News

“Farm to Table” depicts an angora goat and a cow alongside sunflowers, representing the spirit of the rural agricultural community. It was painted by Arlene Nanney and is located in the 100 block of South Getty Street.

Julye Keeble|Leader-News

“Tree City,” by Rayleigh Watson depicts Uvalde’s history with trees and a dedication in the roots to the late Laura Jones at 301 S. Getty St.

Julye Keeble|Leader-News

Sharon Fowler painted “Uvalde Flora” installed at 115 S West St.

Julye Keeble|Leader-News

“Be Still and Know”was painted by Bea Ybarra, and installed in front of St. Philips’s Episcopal Church at 343 N. Getty St.

Uvalde Main Street

Artist Kay Brieden’s depiction of “Cactus Jack,” former U.S. Vice President John Nance Garner, may be seen at 111 N. Getty St.

Julye Keeble|Leader-News

“Devotion to Duty” was painted by Hondobased artist Linda Quintero and was installed near the Uvalde Volunter Fire Department at 117 S. Getty St.

VISITOR’S GUIDE JUNE/JULY 2020 13

Ready, aim: Hunter’s Roundup will go on The Uvalde Area Chamber of Commerce’s 39th-annual Hunters’ Roundup, which draws hunters from far and wide, is scheduled Nov. 6 starting at 5 p.m.

The event is normally held at the Uvalde County Event Center at the Fairplex, 215 Veterans Lane. This year, if needed due to the pandemic, changes may be made.

“It will definitely be held, although if we will decide to do it in a virtual-only capacity is still up in the air,” said Victoria Dühring, executive director of the chamber.

She suggested that if needed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the chamber might plan a virtual dial-in and online purchase telethon with entertainment, similar to

those held in the 1960s.

Dühring also said, if needed, the chamber might host a drive-through meal pickup.

The roundup has been held for the past 37 years on the Friday evening before the general whitetail deer season opens. The event originated as an appreciation dinner for visiting hunters in 1981 and has expanded as the years progressed.

Admission is $10 per person, but the fee is waived for those with a valid Texas Parks and Wildlife Department hunting license.

First responders with identification and children under 10 may also enter for no charge.

The event features vendor

booths, live music and prize drawings. A wild game dinner is usually served at 6 p.m.

The chamber typically holds a prize drawing for 30 guns, including pistols, rifles,

tactical rifles and shotguns.

For those not located in the Uvalde area, guns may be shipped and forwarded to an approved FFL dealer in your area, for a small fee.

Meghann Garcia|Leader-News

Uvalde Area Chamber of Commerce board members John Dodson (left) and Joe Cardenas sell tickets for a multi-gun prize drawing fundraiser held during the 2019 Hunters’ Roundup organized by the Uvalde Area Chamber of Commerce.

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14 VISITOR’S GUIDE

JUNE/JULY 2020

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B5, I21, N35: BINGO! Classes, woodworking, exercise and more The Herby Ham Activity Center is a 23,000-square foot community center that offers a multitude of entertainment options.

The center is under the leadership of Pete Luna|Leader-News Sue Rankin, who Bingo players filled Herby Ham Activity Center’s banquet hall during the inauguserves as the ral bingo games held in January of 2020. center director. It is Bingo players were eligible to win $2,500 located at 248 FM in cash prizes, ranging from $50 to $750.

Games are offered Sunday, Tuesday and 3447 in Uvalde.

Thursday.

Although normally-scheduled activities may vary due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the center offers a wood shop, indoor pool, commercial kitchen, exercise rooms, game sessions, dance instruction and a gift shop.

New to the center is charitable bingo, which kicked off in January and is offered every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday with

cash prizes.

The doors open for every game at 5 p.m., with the bingo games starting at 7 p.m., except on Sunday, when doors open at noon, with games starting at 2 p.m.

The entrance fee is $14 for 10 games. Bingo supplies such as daubers and concessions are also available for purchase. All transactions at the center, including the entry fees, are cash only.

There are also several electronic machines on-site.

Check out their Facebook for more information on bingo and other programs that the center has to offer. No Facebook, no The Best Mesquite Grilled Steaks in Town! worries, you can look at from 6 Entrees 2 for $22 Choose with Appetizers their website at Catering available https:// DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS herby ham 810 E. Main – Inn of Uvalde • 830-278-2060 activitycenter.org.

Concan offers a visitors center Visitors to Uvalde County looking for information on lodging or river-based and other recreational activities would be well-served to stop by the Uvalde County Visitor Center, located at 21563 Highway 127, across from the Frio Float in Concan.

Operated by the Texas Hill Country River Region, the center, which opened in December of 2019, is wellequipped to direct visitors to all parts of Uvalde County, including the Frio, Nueces and Sabinal rivers, and the city of Uvalde.

Annabell McNew, executive director of THCRR, said staff members are excited to tell the story of Uvalde County to tourists and offer local experiences.

Visitors to the center may obtain magazines and brochures offering information

about area attractions, and enjoy artwork depicting the beauty of the Hill Country.

The center houses offices for THCRR staff, a conference area and a seating nook with toys for children.

They also offer an outdoor area, free wireless internet service and two outdoor restrooms.

For more information about the area, including a listing of local businesses and things to do in the area, visit the website at https://www. visituvaldecounty.com.

Stock up on supplies such as…

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3100 Highway 90 East • Uvalde, Texas (830) 278-9117 • www.walmart.com Uvalde County Visitor Center

VISITOR’S GUIDE JUNE/JULY 2020 15

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Nueces River dam at Wes Cooksey Park near Camp Wood.

Wes Cooksey Park, with its camping sites and Nueces River access, is a one-stop location for yearround fun.

It is located off Highway 55, three miles south of Camp Wood and about 40 miles from the city of Uvalde, with an address of 33719 Highway 55.

The park is owned by Uvalde County and is under the management ofBobbie and Charles Nuemann.

The park offers 31 camping sites, some for tent and RV, and some just for RVs. They also offer 30-and 50-amp hookups, a volleyball court, a kayak and boat launching area, and a grassy area with river access.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they do have some crowd size limitations and recommend calling in advance to check on availability.

For more information, call 830-597-3223.

We welcome you to play golf with us Tuesday - Sunday

9 HOLES – Weekdays: $13 Weekend: $15 Cart Rental: $7 Trail Fee: $10 18 HOLES – Weekdays: $18 Weekends: $22 Cart Rental: $12 Trail Fee: $10

Driving Range – Large bucket $6 Small bucket $3 Monday - Friday after 3 p.m. $13 green fees For more information email Golf Course Coordinator June Ybarra aybarra@uvaldetx.gov

Uvalde Memorial Golf Course

221 E. Doughty • Uvalde • 830-278-6155 • Hours: 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

VISITOR’S GUIDE JUNE/JULY 2020 17

Construction begins in 1891 at a cost of $35,600.

1896 1902

The local newspaper reports the opera house will be turned over to the Uvalde Dramatic Association.

In 1907, the first opera house manager is hired.

1933

C.G. Morrison's Variety store moves into the bottom floor of the opera house

1978

Garner estate deeds opera house to city of Uvalde, and the opera house is listed on National Register of Historical Places

M.C. Schocklett purchases the opera house and four years later sells it to Fred Cocke.

1916

Moving pictures are shown at the opera house and traveling performers take to the stage. The opera house is sold to John Nance Garner, who later serves as vice president of the United States.

1967

Opera house receives a Texas Historical Marker

1982

After going through an extensive $650K renovation from 1979-1982, the opera house reopens.

The Uvalde City Council approves renaming the opera house in honor of Janey Slaughter Briscoe, longstanding Uvaldean and wife of former Texas Gov. Dolph Briscoe

In 2019, opera house productions included Arabian Nights, and A Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play During 2018, the opera house produced four shows, including Catskin, Treasure Island, The Importance of Being Earnest, and It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play The Uvalde Grand Opera House welcomes walking tours Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Data Source: Uvalde Grand Opera House

View our website for local listings!

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18 VISITOR’S GUIDE

Uvalde Grand Opera House, above, a small dragon who is curled around the lightning rod that extends from a tower at the corner of the building, right.

JUNE/JULY 2020

Lights, action, drama

Texas’ oldest functioning opera house Located in downtown Uvalde, the Uvalde Grand Opera House is a touchstone for the community, operating at the intersection of historic preservation and arts and culture.

Built in 1891 at a cost of approximately $35,000, the opera house offers year-round performances of local artists, touring musicians and theatrical productions.

Although performances have been put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the opera house has been undergoing renovations and refurbishments, to aid in preserving its long history in the Uvalde community.

Renovations include interior millwork, repainted window casings, and work in the attic space of the turret. New historically-accurate double-hung windows have also been installed, along with the restoration of stained glass window panes.

Walking tours are welcome during regular business hours, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, contact opera house manager Caitlin Visel at 830278-4184.

Lic# 103846

Assisted Living

201 Ham Lane • 830-278-8220 www.verandassistedliving.com

Welcome Visitors!

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36TH SUMMER ON THE FRIO

Frio’s Dry Fifty “IT’S A SUMMER TRADITION ON THE FRIO” Largest selection of T-shirts on the Frio (Frio River, Garner State Park, Concan)

Southern Marsh • Consuela • Yellow Box Shoes • Children’s T-shirts & Shorts • Tyler Candles • Casual & Resort Wear • Western Hats • Caps • Sunglasses • River Hats & River Gear • Frio River Water Shoes • Jewelry – Sterling Silver Charms (FR & GSP) • Gifts • Crosses • Handpainted Art • Salt Life • Guy Harvey • Patagonia • Signs • Rock Shop • Rustic Items • Unique Gifts for Home/Patio • 36 years on the Frio

• SNACK SHACK • • Drinks • Blue Bell Ice Cream • Hawaiian Shaved Ice • Snack Items

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Summer Hours Sun-Thur 9:30-5:30 • Fri-Sat 9:30-6:30

Hwy 127 • Concan, Texas • 830-232-6300

VISITOR’S GUIDE JUNE/JULY 2020 19

20 VISITOR’S GUIDE

JUNE/JULY 2020

Did you know… Four of the elementary schools Bertha Dalton

Kate Benson

Mamie Anthon

Annie Robb

were named after teachers: Mamie Anthon, Kate Benson, Bertha Dalton, and Annie Robb.

Available schools located in Uvalde County Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District 1000 North Getty Street Uvalde, Texas 78801 (830) 278-6655 • www .ucisd .net Southwest Texas Junior College 2401 Garner Field Road (830) 278-4401 www .swtjc .edu

Knippa Independent School District 100 Kessler Lane Knippa, TX (830) 934-2176 www .knippaisd .net

Sabinal Independent School District 409 W . Cullins Sabinal, TX 78881 (830) 988-2472 www .sabinalisd .net

Sacred Heart Rio Grande Catholic College School Sul Ross 401 W .

Leona St .

University (830) 278-2661 2623 Garner www .facebook .com/ Field Road SacredHeartCatholic SchoolUvalde (830) 279-3004 www .sulross .edu/page/1576/ Uvalde-campus

St. Philips Episcopal School 343 N . Getty St .

(830) 278-1350 www .spesUvalde .org

Utopia Independent School District 258 School Street P .O . Box 880 Utopia, Texas 78884 (830) 966-3339 Uvalde Classical Academy 400 N . Getty St .

(830) 591-2242 www .Uvaldeclassical .org

We welcome Visitors like family!

Stop by and enjoy some hometown hospitality!

Our Award-winning Service Department is open Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

2630 E. Main | Uvalde, Texas 78801

When the products are similar, the dealer makes the difference.

830-278-4124 www.cecilatkissionmotorsuvalde.com

VISITOR’S GUIDE JUNE/JULY 2020 21

Getting away for the day is just an hour away Two state parks with breathtaking sights, sparkling rivers, hiking trail and abundant nature sightings are just a picturesque drive from Uvalde.

Pandemic precautions are being taken at the state parks, which are open for day visits and limited camping.

Face coverings are requested, and no groups of more than 10 people are allowed. Exceptions may be made for families or people living in the same household.

Park staff asks that you maintain at least a six-foot distance from people not in your group.

All park headquarters, visitor centers and park stores are closed, and no equipment rentals are currently available.

Park hours may vary due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so please check the websites or call for updated information.

Garner State Park

Garner State Park, 234 RR 1050, Concan, offers swimming and hiking for more advanced trekkers as well as beginners in a scenic area on 1,774 acres of Hill Country terrain which includes 2.9 miles of the winding Frio River.

Visitors can float the Frio River on an inner tube or hike 16 miles of picturesque trails. The park offers picnic areas, fishing,

and areas for bike riding.

You can take a virtual tour with an interactive map at the park website, https://tpwd. texas.gov/state-parks/garner.

To enter, you must reserve passes in advance. You may make reservations online or call 512-389-8900.

Entrance fees are $8 daily for those age 13 and up, and children under the age of 12 may enter for free.

GARNER STATE PARK Entrance fee: $8 daily for ages 13 and up, children 12 and younger free Reservations are needed and can be done online at https:// texasstateparks.reserveamerica. com/ or by calling 512-389-8900

Lost Maples

photography or just making memories with loved ones.

The area houses a special stand of bigtooth maples, known for their colorful fall foliage, and is home to a wide variety of birds, including the endangered golden-cheeked warbler and the recently delisted black-capped vireo.

You do not need a fishing license to fish from shore or pier in a state park or natural area, and the banks of the Sabinal River or Can Creek offer fishing areas.

Cell phone service is not available in the Natural Area, but typically service can be found in the nearby towns of Utopia and Bandera.

Entrance fees are $6 daily for adults, and children under 12 are admitted for free. Visit the park website for more information or to make a reservation at https://tpwd. texas.gov/state-parks/lostmaples.

Lost Maples state natural area offers abundant wildflowers, canyon walls and access to the Sabinal River.

LOST MAPLES It is located at 37221 Farm to Market Road 187 in Vanderpool, Entrance fee: $6 daily for adults, approximately two hours children 12 and younger free northwest of San Antonio.

Reservations are needed and The park features 10 miles of can be done online at https:// hiking trails including clifftops, tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lostand plentiful wildlife and scenery maples. suitable for bird watching,

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JUNE/JULY 2020

249 Airport Blvd. • Uvalde, Texas • 830-900-3113

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Delivering quality fuels and lubricants to South Texas for over 30 years!

Dyed off road diesel fuel On-site tank set-up and delivery On road diesel and gasolines.

(800)284-0351 • 447 West Main Street Uvalde, Texas 78801

950 E. Main Street • 747 W. Main Street 401 S. Getty Street 2108 Garner Field Road • 520 E. Main Street

VISITOR’S GUIDE JUNE/JULY 2020 23

The Adobe Lodge at War Horse Ranch

Uvalde’s newest Airbnb! The Adobe Lodge is a Santa Fe style home located on the War Horse Ranch featuring access to a private cypress waterhole on the Frio River. Book your stay today!

1-2-3 Bedrooms available To make reservations www.airbnb.com/h/adobelodge Follow us on Instagram @adobe.lodge