Visitors Guide Summer 2021

Visitor’s Guide Summer 2021

Uvalde County

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VISIT|SHOP|STAY PAGE 7

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2 VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021

Chalk Bluff River Resort Open Year Round

60 Furnished Cabins • 103 Campsites • 32 Full Service RV Sites • 14 RV Sites w/ Water & Electricity Only Day Use • Camping Fishing • Hiking • Tubing • Kayaking • Bird Watching Exotic Petting Zoo • Safari Hay Rides • Jump Pillows • Play Ground • Summer Dances • Pet Friendly • Historical Marker Butterfly Migration • On Site Store, Gift Shop and Laundry • Pavilion Rental • Family Reunions • Weddings • Field Trips

1108 Chalk Bluff Road • Uvalde, Texas

830-278-5515 • chalkbluffriverresort.com

CONTENTS 4 Event to be held June 11-12 6 El Memorial Progreso Library 7 Uvalde Convention and Visitors Bureau 8 Uvalde County Fairplex 9 City of Uvalde swimming pool 10 Herby Ham Activity Center 11 Texas Hill Country River Region 12 Wes Cooksey Park 13 Uvalde Area Chamber of Commerce 14 Famous Uvaldeans over the years UVALDE HONEY FESTIVAL

SUMMER READING PROGRAM VISIT, SHOP, STAY

JULY FOURTH FIREWORKS SPLISH SPLASH BINGO

VISITOR’S CENTER FAMILY FUN

DOWNTOWN BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT WHO’S WHO

18 Oldest operating opera house in Texas 20 Returning this year to the Fairplex 21 Main Street program 10 year anniversary 22 Lost Maples and Garner State Park 24 Independence Day tourney 27 Cooks Slough Nature Park 28 Briscoe-Garner Museum 30 Four plazas 31 Almost 10,000 species of birds CENTER STAGE

PALOMINO FEST

THRIVING HISTORIC DOWNTOWN STATE PARKS

UVALDE GOLF COURSE

LANDFILL TURNED PARK

CACTUS JACK

DOWNTOWN HISTORY

BIRDING

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

©Copyright 2021

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 Photos: cover, pg . 3 courtesy of Chalk Bluff River Resort .

ADVERTISERS Chalk Bluff River Resort ......................................... 2 Tree City Tea ............................................................ 4 Uvalde Rexall ......................................................... 5 The Local Fix............................................................ 5 Hangar 6 ................................................................. 5 Broadway 830 ....................................................... 5 Uvalde Memorial Hospital .................................... 6 Sacred Heart Catholic School ................................. 7 Texas Hill Country River Region ............................. 8 Bottle 'n Bag ........................................................... 9 Ash Creek Hideaway............................................. 10 River Rim Resort................................................... 10 City of Uvalde........................................................ 11 Neal's Dining Room ............................................. 12 Frio River Escape .................................................. 12 Maxey Energy Company ...................................... 13 Wendy's ............................................................... 13 5 Points Market .................................................... 13 Max Cash Express ................................................. 13 The Open Range Bakey & Cafe.............................. 13 501 River Retreat.................................................. 16 Pat Haby Realty .................................................... 17 El Progreso Memorial Library .............................. 17 Veranda Senior Living ......................................... 17 Los Alamos Restaurant......................................... 17 Roadrunner Energy, Inc...................................... 17 Frio Bat Flight........................................................ 17 Starr Realty & Ranch Keller Williams Realty ........ 18 First State Bank of Uvalde .................................... 19 Joe's Plumbing Service ....................................... 20 Golden Chick ........................................................ 21 SSGT Willie De Leon Civic Center ......................... 21 Uvalde Convention & Visitor's Bureau ............... 22 Frio's Dry Fifty ...................................................... 23 Main Street Uvalde .............................................. 24 Frio Country ......................................................... 25 minits .................................................................... 26 Uvalde County Fairplex ....................................... 27 Walmart Supercenter ......................................... 27 Uvalde Memorial Golf Course ............................. 28 TJ Moore Lumber Yard .......................................... 29 Rebekah James REALTOR® .................................. 30 Capital Farm Credit .............................................. 31 Uvalde Consolidated ISD .................................... 32

Special Sections are available online www.uvaldeleadernews.com

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

Visitor’s Guide Summer 2021

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

www.uvaldeleadernews.com

@uvaldenews

4 VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021

Honey Capital of the World

The Uvalde Honey Festival, celebrating Uvalde’s rich history as the “Honey Capital of the World,” will be held June 11-12.

The festival is being put on by Main Street Uvalde, which invites everyone to “bee a part of Uvalde history” at the event.

“Uvalde owns a significant piece of Texas folklore, which may also be a little-known fact to people outside of Uvalde County,” said Susan Rios, Main Street Uvalde manager.

“During the 1905 World’s Fair in Paris, Uvalde was honored as the Honey Capital of the World, the last time that title was given. Even before that, late 19th century pioneers found an abundance of hollow trees and caves filled with honey in the modern-day Uvalde area.”

There will be musical performances from the Teague Brothers Band, an Americana and folk group led by U.S. Army veteran and songwriter John Teague, and singer/songwriters Jonathan

Hernandez and Natalie Rose.

Encompassing a myriad of activities, there will be food from local vendors and a 5K race, as well as numerous activities planned for children.

Scheduled to coincide with Four Square Friday, which offers lateevening shopping, the event will begin at 6 p.m. on June 11 in the downtown plaza area.

The Uvalde Honey Festival 5K race will kick off day two of the events at 8 a.m. on June 12, as will the children’s 1-mile fun run, starting at the same time.

Main Street and partners including the city of Uvalde and Uvalde Convention and Visitors Bureau will be taking precautions to ensure a safe experience for attendees during the COVID-19 pandemic.

For more information visit the Uvalde Honey Festival Facebook page, or call Rios at the Main Street office at 830-278-4115.

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VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021 5

All-American favorites in Historic Uvalde

From an old-fashioned soda fountain to brick oven pizza, or a WWII diner to your coffee fix....

We have something for everyone!

‹ UVALDE REXALL

201 N. Getty | Uvalde | 830-900-7300 Classic diner feel with a modern twist.

THE LOCAL FIX ‹

2001 E. Main St. | Uvalde | 830-900-7183 Your coffee fix with breakfast all-day

‹ HANGAR 6 AIR CAFE

249 Airport Blvd. | Uvalde | 830-900-3113 American classics with a WWII theme

BROADWAY 830 ‹

100 E. Main | Uvalde | 830-900-7076 Artisan pizza and craft beer on tap

Open 7 Days a Week - Online ordering available

6 VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021

“Tails and Tales” summer reading event

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 for people of all ages, complete with an art gallery featuring local artists.

During the summer, the library hosts a reading program open to all age groups. This year, the program, which begins June 7 with the theme of “Tails and Tales,” will be held virtually via the library’s Facebook page.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, visitors to the library will be required to wear face masks. Social distancing measures are also in place.

The library, 301 W. Main St., is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, until 4 p.m. on Friday, and 2 p.m. on Saturday.

For more information on upcoming events or a complete listing of their calendar, 830278-2017.

For more information, contact library director Mendell Morgan, at 830-278-2017.

Mendell Morgan

Your New Hospital COMING FALL 2021

You can count on us for the specialized care you need, with the local convenience you deserve.

Uvalde Memorial Better Health Begins Here.

1025 Garner Field Road Uvalde, Texas 78801 (830) 278-6251 www.umhtx.org

24-Hr. Emergency Service Hospice & Palliative Care Respiratory Care Laboratory Outpatient Specialty Clinic Rehabilitation Center Inpatient & Outpatient Surgery Hyperbaric Therapy & Wound Care Cardiac Rehabilitation

Medical & Surgical Services Intensive Care Unit Women’s & Newborns’ Center Radiology/Diagnostic Imaging Women’s Imaging Center Social Services Senior Behavioral Health Services Sleep Center Air Transport Capability

VISIT|SHOP|STAY

VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021 7

A one-of-kind, rich oasis surrounded by all the adventures of Texas, including River Country, The Hill Country, state parks, hunting, fishing, outdoor recreation and more.

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, 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.

Uvalde Main Street manager Susan Rios (left) and Uvalde Convention and A tourism video depicting points of interest can be found at Visitors Bureau executive director Debra Stifflemire perch on a painted bench, part of a downtown art project the duo spearheaded. http://www.visituvalde.com.

SACRED HEART CATHOLIC SCHOOL presents...

Beginning in 2021-2022, Sacred Heart Catholic School will become a STREAM school!

STREAM is an integrated curriculum that will also introduce robotics to all students.

DO NOT LET YOUR CHILD MISS OUT ON THIS GREAT OPPORTUNITY!

Call today to register for the 2021-2022 school year: PreK3- 7th grade Registration packets are available at the school office 8:30-4:00 p.m. Monday-Friday. or you can download a packet at https://shcsuvalde.org/tuition For more information contact SHCS at (830) 278-2661.

y k s t h g i n e h t p u t Ligh

8 VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021

Fourth of July celebration

Uvalde County skies will once again sparkle in the sizzling summer weather as two July 4 fireworks shows are set to impress with their pyrotechnics.

In Uvalde, gates will open at 5 p.m. at the Uvalde County

Fairplex, 215 Veterans Lane. The show is scheduled to start at 9:30 p.m. Tailgate parties are welcome, and visitors may bring alcohol or other beverages, provided they are not in glass containers. Barbecue pits are not allowed.

The annual show in the hill country will be held at the Utopia Park on Farm to Market Road 1050. The show is scheduled to start after dark.

The Utopia Park will be open all day. A fee may be assessed until 4 p.m. for non-residents. Concessions will be available or families may bring a picnic.

Though the fireworks are deployed inside the park, viewing is available from adjacent county roads and town streets. Parking will be limited inside the confines of the Utopia Park.

No admission is charged for the fireworks shows, but donations are requested as the money helps fund the event the following year.

Pete Luna|Leader-News Sahawe Dancers perform at downtown Uvalde plaza during an Independence Day celebration, which annually includes a reading of the Declaration of Independence. The event takes place each July 4.

e m i t l o o P

VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021 9

The maximum occupancy for the pool is 90 people.

times, and a lifeguard will be on duty while the pool is in use.

Swimming pool reservations may be made Friday, Saturday or Sunday from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and also The city of Uvalde swimming on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 pool will be open Tuesday through p.m.

Sunday from 2-6 p.m., and closed For reservations, 10-day advance each Monday, through Aug. 27. booking and payment in full is Due to the ongoing COVID-19 required. The fee for a two-hour pandemic, patrons are asked to minimum rental is $210, and there maintain a distance of six feet between non-related parties. The city is an additional charge of $100 for asks that patrons take responsibility an additional hour of rental.

Three-week learn-to-swim for disinfecting their hands, sessions will be held for children belongings, and surfaces they ages 6 and up. come into contact with to protect Classes consist of nine themselves from germ exposure.

45-minute lessons for a cost of $65.

Swimmers are required to have Class days are Tuesday, Wednesday all necessary attire in place before entering the swimming pool facility, and Thursday.

Session 1 is set June 1-17; and they may bring towels.

Swimmers younger than 10 must session 2, June 22 through July 8; and session 3, July 13-29. be accompanied by an adult at all

For more information contact city parks and recreation director Rob Fowler at 830-278-7531 or by email at rfowler@ uvaldetx.gov.

Leader-News

The city of Uvalde swimming pool is open Tuesday through Sunday from 2-6 p.m. Fees for using the pool are $2 for children 13 years old and younger, while anyone 14 years of age and older must pay $4.

Try our NEW Frozen Toddy today!

n a c n o C e r o f e B l l a C Last Two great locations 1718 Milam • Uvalde 315 Fisher Avenue • Sabinal

“More than just a liquor store...”

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Stop by to check out our NEW MERCHANDISE! Caps, Shirts, Cups and more!

10 VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021

The entrance fee is $14 for 10 games.

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 Sue Rankin, who serves as the center director. It is located at 248 FM 3447 in Uvalde.

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.

Somewhat new to the center is charitable bingo, which kicked off in January of 2020 but was temporarily waylaid by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bingo is offered every Sunday, Tuesday and Friday 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.

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.

Pete Luna|Leader-News Bingo players filled Herby Ham Activity Center’s banquet hall during the inaugural bingo games held in January of 2020. Games are offered Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday.

Ash Creek Hideaway Wildlife • Birdwatching Stargazing Come stay at Ash Creek Hideaway and enjoy the beauty of the Frio Canyon.

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Explore, get inspired Annabell McNew, executive Visitors to director of THCRR, said staff Uvalde County members are excited to tell the story looking for of Uvalde County to tourists and offer information on local experiences. lodging or riverVisitors to the center may obtain based and other magazines and brochures offering recreational information about area attractions, activities would and enjoy artwork depicting the be well-served to beauty of the Hill Country. The center stop by the Uvalde houses offices for THCRR staff, a County Visitor conference area and a seating nook Center, located at with toys for children.

21563 Highway 127 also offer an outdoor area, in Concan.

Annabell McNew freeThey wireless internet service and two Operated by the outdoor restrooms.

Texas Hill Country For more information about the area, River Region, the center, which opened including a listing of local businesses in December of 2019, is well-equipped and things to do in the area, visit the to direct visitors to all parts of Uvalde website at County, including the Frio, Nueces and https://www.visituvaldecounty.com.

Sabinal rivers, and the city of Uvalde.

FUN FACTS The largest tree in Texas is located in the River Region, measuring nearly 100 ft. tall and 438” in circumference, with a crown spread of 112 feet.

The Texas Hill Country River Region has the second largest bat population in the world 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

12 VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021

WES COOKSEY PARK

FAMILY FUN

Wes Cooksey Park, Uvalde County’s only county-owned public park, has been in operation since the 1960s, providing a fun retreat for families with its camping facilities and adjacent lake.

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.

John Wesley “Wes” Cooksey donated the park property to the county in 1962 and the Lake Nueces Dam was built that same year.

The park offers picnic and camping sites, a playground for children, fishing and swimming opportunities, 31 camping sites – some for tent and RV, and some just for RVs. It also offers 30-and 50-amp hookups, a volleyball court, a kayak and boat launching area, and a grassy area with river access.

Rocknross52|Wikipedia Park staff recommends calling in advance to check on availability, Nueces River dam at Wes Cooksey Park.

830-597-3223.

Uvalde County Fun Facts

Historically, Uvalde has been known as the Honey Capital of the World for production of huajillo honey, a mild, light-colored honey discovered in the late 1800s.

Oscar-winning actor Matthew McConaughey, actress Dale Evans and former Governor of Texas Dolph Briscoe (after whom the Post Office is named) were born in Uvalde. The Newton Brothers Gang was also from Uvalde County.

Garner State Park, one of the most visited state parks in Texas, is named after John Nance Garner, Vice President to Franklin D. Roosevelt, who called Uvalde home.

The Frio River is mentioned in George Strait’s song “All My Ex’s Live in Texas.”

A Tradition Since 1926

Summer Hours 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.

7 Days a Week Hours subject to change.

Please check out our Facebook page for updates.

20720 Hwy 127 | Concan, TX | 830-232-5813 www.nealsdiningroom.com

(Oasis at River's Edge and River Rock Cabins rentals)

2039-B CR 350 | Concan, Texas 78838 830-232-4600 | www.frioriverescape.com

VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021 13

Business development The Uvalde Area Chamber of Commerce, 340 N. Getty St., aims to provide information, support business development, improve the economic base, and promote quality of life in the Uvalde area.

The non-profit chamber represents businesses, civic and professional organizations, and leaders in the business community.

Staff works closely with city and county officials in economic development and other areas to improve the business environment in the community.

Regina SantosThe chamber director serves as a Aviles standing-member of the Uvalde Area Development Foundation to further support efforts in retention and expansion of existing businesses in the area, while also working to bring new ventures to Uvalde’s industrial park.

The chamber assists existing businesses, encourages new business and individuals to move to the area, and continues to create economic stimulus by encouraging guests and residents of Uvalde County to shop local.

The chamber is financed through membership dues and annual events.

For more information about the chamber, call 830-278-3361 or visit www.uvalde.org. Regina Santos-Aviles serves as chamber director.

• • •

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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

Burgers, Sandwiches, Salads & Home Cooked Specials Breakfast served Thursday, Friday & Saturday

Espresso and Lotus Energy and much more!

The Open Range Bakery and Cafe 2211 E. Main St. • Uvalde, Texas

830-261-1866

14 VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021

Uvalde County

Nearly 700 people walked into the centennial celebration of the Uvalde Area Chamber of Commerce on Feb. 7, 2020, with hopes of seeing Oscar-winning actor Matthew McConaughey, and their wishes came true times three when the Uvalde-born Hollywood star brought along his mother and brother for an hourlong comedy-infused conversation and question-andanswer session. Family matriarch Kay McConaughey was as outspoken as her son Mike, better known as Rooster, recalling adventures the family had during a 16-year residence in Uvalde.

She told of the family’s moves across Uvalde, as they occupied homes on High, Getty and Third streets. While their former abode at 518 N. Getty St. is now black – a feature Rooster noted during their time onstage – the family said it took turns as lime and mustard during their residence. “Uvalde was the most perfect place to raise children,” Kay said, explaining the family left in 1979. Looking back through Uvalde Leader-News archives, the McConaugheys were no strangers to news coverage even then,

Pete Luna|Leader-News Uvalde-born Matthew McConaughey (right) stands with mother Kay McConaughey and brother Mike “Rooster” McConaughey (left) outside the Uvalde County Fairplex after the trio related anecdotes about their time living in Uvalde.

The family spoke at the centennial anniversary celebration banquet of the Uvalde Area Chamber of Commerce, held Feb. 7, 2020.

Uvalde resident Oscar “Shotgun” Albarado, a bit bruised but victorious, holds the Junior Middleweight World Boxing championship trophy after upsetting Koichi Wajima on June 4, 1974. Albarado disposed of the former champ with a knockout at the 1:57 mark of the 15th round in a title match in Tokyo, Japan.

with Matthew making the front page as a runner-up in a Bandera youth pageant, Kay’s various civic ventures, Pat’s sporting events, and Jim’s golfing. Rooster also had mentions on the social pages.

During the chamber’s celebration, Matthew’s son Livingston joined his elders on stage for a while, perched on his father’s lap, while Matthew’s wife, Camila Alves-McConaughey, ferried the microphone to a few people in the audience waiting to ask questions.

Texas Hill Country River Region director Annabell McNew asked the brothers to name their favorite sparkling area river between the Nueces, Frio and Sabinal options: Matthew’s was the Frio River, and he said he and his wife brought their firstborn, Levi, to the Frio when he was only a few months old.

Rooster’s pick was the Nueces, as he recalled youthful adventures on the water and shared it was his honeymoon destination when he married 16 years ago.

Uvalde Leader-News Matthew McConaughey as he appeared on Page 1 of Thursday, Sept. 29, 1977, edition of the Uvalde Leader-News for winning runner-up honors at a Little Mister Texas Cowboy pageant in nearby Bandera. He was 7 years old.

Uvalde Leader-News archive Uvalde resident Vann McElroy, who is a former Uvalde Coyote, Baylor Bear and Los Angeles Raiders free safety.

McElroy’s 10-year pro career included a Super Bowl victory. McElroy was the Raiders’ third-round choice and 64th overall and the fifth defensive back taken, but history records that he had a greater NFL career than the four taken ahead of him. He signed a contract for $75,000, which in 1982 was a sizable sum.

Dick Baxter Hollywood stars Roy Rogers and Dale Evans.

Frances Octavia “Dale Evans” Smith was born in 1912 at 726 Fort Clark Road on her grandparents’ 40-acre farm. Roy and Dale, married in 1947, returned to Uvalde to visit relatives, many of whom are buried in the Uvalde Cemetery.

VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021 15

Uvalde County

Ron Losey Photography Sabinal native Johnny Rodriguez, who over the past 40 years has released 35 albums and charted 45 singles. He also performed at the inaugural ball for President George H. W. Bush.

Joaquin Jackson, the famed Texas Ranger who helped launch Johnny Rodriguez’s career. Jackson and his wife, Shirley, lived in Uvalde at one time with their two sons.

Digital Research Library of Illinois Uvalde natives Willis, Wylie “Doc,” Jess, and Joe Newton formed a gang which, between 1919 and 1924, robbed 87 banks and six trains across the U.S. and Canada. All four brothers, as well as their parents, are buried in Uvalde cemeteries. Matthew McConaughey, another famous Uvaldean, played the part of Willis Newton in the 1998 film, “The Newton Boys.”

Uvalde Leader-News The Rev. Ben Kinchlow, best known for co-hosting The 700 Club on television, alongside Uvaldean Chris Reyes Mendeke during a November of 2012 ceremony to dedicate the Texas Historical Commission plaque at Nicholas Street School. Kinchlow was born in Uvalde on Dec. 27, 1936, the son of a Methodist minister.

Portrait of former Uvaldean Patrick Floyd Jarvis Garrett – best known for killing Billy the Kid – from ‘The Story of the Outlaw: A Study of the Western Desperado’ by Emerson Hough, 1907.

Pete Luna|Leader-News Jorge, Johnny, James and Julio Arreola, Uvalde brothers who make up the Grammy Award-winning Los Palominos.

G.R. Williamson King Fisher, a rancher, outlaw, and lawman who abandoned his outlaw life and became a deputy sheriff of Uvalde County in 1881 and later acting sheriff in 1884.

He was killed in a shootout in San Antonio and is buried in Pioneer Park Cemetery at the intersection of North Park and Florence streets.

Wikipedia Commons Hollywood actor Dana Andrews, who was born in Mississippi in 1909 but attended school in Uvalde, where his father was a minister at First Baptist Church.

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El Progreso Memorial Library

Representing Buyers & Sellers 1026 Garner Field Rd. • 830-278-3394 www.uvaldetexasrealestate.com

PAT HABY, BROKER 830-591-3318

Pick-up Now Window e l Availab

NOW OPEN TO ALL TEXANS WITH INPERSON AND CURBSIDE BY REQUEST. Regular 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 info Story Hour in-person live-streaming 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays 301 W. Main Street • Uvalde, Texas

(830) 278-2017 www.elprogreso.org

Daily Breakfast & Lunch SPECIALS Homemade Tortillas

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Assisted Living

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

2621 EAST MAIN UVALDE, TX 830-278-1111 Residential * Commercial * Agricultural Locally Owned & Operated Since 1978

18 VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021

CENTER STAGE

e s u o H a r e p O d n a r Uvalde G

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 yearround performances of local artists, touring musicians and theatrical productions.

Recently, 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 doublehung 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.

Upcoming performances include the Youth Players on the Plaza production of “Once Upon A Pine: The Adventures of Pinocchio.”

Youth Players on the Plaza was started in the mid-1980s by the chief of police as a way for kids to stay out of trouble, says

opera house manager Caitlin Visel, it’s a program that creates an environment of learning, expression, and fun for Uvalde’s youth, who are able to bring stories to life for the community to witness.

The students will take to the stage for two performances on July 3031.

For more information, contact opera house manager Caitlin Visel at 830-2784184.

www.UvaldeRealty.com

Starr Taylor Matthews Broker/REALTOR Bunny Kirkpatrick REALTOR Kim Stary REALTOR Dee Dee Brown REALTOR Michelle Robinson REALTOR Rebekah James REALTOR Yvonne Davenport REALTOR Travis Green REALTOR April Grigg REALTOR Kenneth Mueller REALTOR Emily Santellano REALTOR ®

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VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021 19 Uvalde Leader-News Far left: Lady Bracknell, played by Karen Barnes, expresses disgust at the thought that Jack Worthing would presume to marry her daughter, Gwendolyn. The scene was part of the Uvalde Grand Opera House production of Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest,” presented in 2018.

Barnes is a Uvalde native and opera house veteran with a degree in theater from Texas A&M University.

Pete Luna|Leader-News The Uvalde Grand Opera House, 104 W. North St. in downtown Uvalde. 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.

Left:Sally Applewhite, as played

by Barbara Chase (left), and Lana Sherwood, as played by Sharon Samples, voice characters in a play for their WBFR radio audience. The scene was part of “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” as produced for the Uvalde Grand Opera House in 2018.

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

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, Carrizo Springs

20 VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021

Returns to Fairplex Uvalde Festival and Events Association, which produces the annual Palomino Fest event, has announced plans to put on the Labor Day weekend event in 2021.

Last year’s event did not take place due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Event organizers say they considered declining numbers of COVID-19 cases in the Uvalde County area and that vaccination statistics as of

early May show 46 percent of Uvalde County residents are vaccinated against the virus as leading reasons to go forward with the event.

The four-day event, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, is scheduled to kick off Thursday, Sept. 2, with the carnival and continue through Sunday, Sept. 5, with professional rodeo action along with top musical entertainment each night.

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Pete Luna|Leader-News One of many food vendors who converge annually at the Uvalde County Fairplex to feed Palomino Fest visitors prepares tasty treats for many of the 20,000plus attendees.

Palomino Fest began in 1996 as a way for Tejano/ Norteño group Los Palominos to give back to the community that has supported them throughout the years.

Los Palominos have reached a significant milestone in their career: the Grammy award-winning group is celebrating 30 years as a band.

“We look forward to this year’s event, and we get to celebrate two anniversaries, the festival’s 25 years and our 30 years,” said James Arreola, lead vocalist of Los Palominos.

“We have been on a long break, and we are ready to get back on the road and start

performing for our fans.”

Los Palominos are on the schedule to perform Sunday, Sept. 5, on the Bud Light Concert Stage.

More bands will be announced in the coming months.

Each year, Palomino Fest attracts over 20,000 people while generating scholarship funds for Southwest Texas Junior College students throughout SWTJC’s 11-county service area.

In all, Palomino Fest’s contributions have exceeded $275,000 in scholarship donations to SWTJC since it began in 1996.

Pete Luna|Leader-News Palomino Fest concert-goers delight in the Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, concert lineup, which included Groupo Letal, Ricardo Castillo y La Diferenzia, Raulito Navaira y Remedio, Hometown Boys, and Los Sabaneros de Aniceto Molina.

Pete Luna|Leader-News Pictured top right: Southwest Texas Junior College president Hector Gonzales (center) accepts an oversized ceremonial check for $25,000 to be used for student scholarships from Grammy-award winning band Los Palominos and brothers (left to right) Jorge Arreola, Johnny Arreola, Julio Arreola and James Arreola. The band, namesake of the long-running Palomino Fest Labor Day Weekend celebration, has been performing together for three decades.

VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021 21

Thriving historic downtown Main Street program Celebrating 10 years of preservation. perseverance, & people

A decade later, Uvalde’s Main Street program continues to create a positive and inviting atmosphere for shoppers and visitors whose destination is our city’s historic downtown. The 10-year anniversary, which was marked with a celebration on April 29, 2021, showed that enthusiasm continues for the important program.

Then First Lady of Texas Anita Perry was the keynote speaker when Uvalde was officially acknowledged as a Texas Historical Commission Main Street City in 2011. Olga Charles, who now serves as the coordinator for the Leader-News’ Newspapers in Education program, was the first manager of the program.

Naturally we are biased, but in our view there is no other Main Street in the state that has as much historic significance, natural beauty and vitality as the street that bisects our downtown. It is, after all, the intersection of two of the longest highways in the nation: U.S. Highway 90 and U.S. Highway 83. At their intersection

lies a downtown plaza punctuated by stately pecans surrounding a gracefullyflowing fountain.

The downtown plaza is also surrounded by architecturally important buildings, most especially the Grand Opera House.

Completed in 1891, the city has carefully maintained the structure, so that today it is probably more beautiful than on the day that it opened. The county courthouse flanks the plaza on the east and is a stately overseer to all that passes the city.

Initiatives inspired by the Main Street program have resulted in a vast number of improvements to the businesses that form the downtown, from facade paint to flower pots, benches and the Four Square Friday event. Business owners can feel confident that the program is a real partner to help foster a dynamic retail climate.

That partnership has been solidified by current Main Street manager Susan Rios.

During the recent anniversary celebration, she recognized individuals and businesses that have helped to promote the

success of the program and to grow Uvalde’s downtown as a shopping destination.

These efforts are extremely important at a time when brick-and-mortar merchants face increased competition from Susan Rios online sales. We should all take that into consideration when making purchases. Uvalde’s downtown would cease to thrive without the stores that form the backbone of the historic district.

Kudos to Rios and all those who work to keep Uvalde’s Main Street a vibrant and rewarding place to shop and visit. As the heart of the city, it deserves – and has our full support.

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22 VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021

Two state parks with breathtaking sights, sparkling rivers, hiking trail and abundant nature sightings are just a picturesque drive from Uvalde.

Due to the ongoing pandemic, park staff recommend visitors minimize time spent in park offices and guarantee entry by making reservations well in advance for both overnight stays and day passes.

Face coverings are encouraged, and park staff suggests visitors maintain at least a six-foot distance from people not in their group.

Lost Maples

Surrounded by adventure and brimming with personality, Uvalde sits at the crossroads of what you’d never expect and what you’d never believe.

Whether you come to hunt, float, SOAR, camp, shop or dine, there’s something for everyone, plenty to explore and at the heart of it all, an inviting community that will keep you coming back.

Uvalde is a town with a storied history, bold spirit and big heart, full of experiences you won’t find anywhere else...

830-278-4115 or www.onlyinuvalde.com

Lost Maples State Natural Area offers abundant wildflowers, canyon walls and access to the Sabinal River. It is located at 37221 Farm to Market Road 187 in Vanderpool, approximately two hours northwest of San Antonio and about 60 miles from Uvalde.

The park features 10 miles of hiking trails including clifftops, and plentiful wildlife and scenery suitable for bird watching, 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 goldencheeked warbler and the recently de-listed blackcapped vireo.

Visitors 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.

Cellphone service is not available in the park, but typically service can be found in the nearby towns of Utopia and Bandera.

Entrance fees are $6 daily for adults and teenagers, with children under 12 admitted for free.

Office hours are from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

Call 830-966-3413 or visit the park website for more information or to make a reservation at https://tpwd. texas.gov/state-parks/lost-maples.

VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021 23

Garner State Park

Located about 30 miles from Uvalde, 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 with several miles along 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.

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

To enter, reserve passes in advance. Make reservations online or call 512- 389-8900.

Regular park access hours are from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., with hours extended to 11 p.m. from this weekend through Labor Day Weekend. Entrance fees are $8 daily for those age 13 and up, and children under the age of 12 may enter for free.

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24 VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021

e m i T Tee Julye Keeble|Leader-News Green space at the 18-hole Uvalde Memorial Golf Course, located at 221 E. Doughty St. The course is operated by the city of Uvalde, whose city council members voted Tuesday to engage a consultant to help polish the course in hopes of attracting more visitors.

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.

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.

Nestled in between what you’d never expect and what you’d never believe is Downtown Uvalde.

This intersection of culture, history, and spirit will lead to experiences you can’t find anywhere else.

Main Street Uvalde

Celebrating 10 Years

of Perseverance, Preservation, and People

Independence Day tourney For those seeking verdant greens and a little challenge, the 73rd Uvalde Fourth of July golf tournament will be conducted July 2-4 at Uvalde Memorial Golf Course.

The course is located at 221 E. Doughty St. and entry fees are $175 per player. Deadline for entries is 4:30 p.m. on June 30.

There will be a $15,000 payout for this year’s tournament, which is dedicated to the memory of businessman, former mayor and golfer William “Bill” McWhorter.

A practice round will be conducted July 1. Match-play will be July 2-4. On July 2, there will be a 50/50 helicopter ball drop held, beginning at 9 a.m.

There will be a Last Chance tournament held the weekend before the Fourth of July event, with the top winners of that event earning free entry into the Fourth of July tournament.

For more information on tournament entry, call 830-278-6155.

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VISITOR’S GUIDE SUMMER 2021 27

e v r e s e r d n a l t we

In an area known for its hot climate and never-ending drought, Uvalde can boast its own wetland nature reserve, where water and wildlife are abundant and accessible to the public year round.

Cooks Slough Sanctuary and Nature Park was opened by the city of Uvalde and Edwards Aquifer Authority in 2007.

The park includes 25 acres of wetland, two wildlife-viewing stations and five shaded rest stations along its numerous trails. It has been designated by the National Audubon Society as one of the best birding locations in the United States.

process of settling ponds and mud flats that break down bacteria and filter the water Although the park has only a it is visited by local, out-of-state, before it is reintroduced into the couple of miles of hiking trails, and out-of-country birders. It is Leona River.

Cooks Slough is open seven the covered pavilions provide designated as a hotspot on the days a week during daylight an all-weather platform to see a Heart of Texas Birding Trail. variety of migratory and resident Birders are sure to spot shore hours with no admission cost.

It is located on County Road birds, dragonflies and butterflies. birds in addition to western and 106 just south of Uvalde. To get It is also possible to spot indigenous birds. to Cooks Slough from U.S. 90 in such land-based animals as The park also boasts picnic the center of Uvalde, head south deer, foxes and armadillos areas along its approximately on U.S. 83 and merge onto Farm rooting around the brush.

1.5-mile trail system. to Market Road 117. Make a right Numerous species of fish, Built on the site of a former on County Road 106; the parking turtles, lizards and snakes can landfill, the park runs in also be seen on any given day. conjunction with the wastewater lot is located at the end of the The 200-acre park is a treatment facility to improve the road.

Except for bicycles and frequent field trip destination for quality of water in Uvalde and wheelchairs, no vehicles are schools and a birding hotspot educate the public about the allowed in the park. that appears in many birding water cycle.

For information, call 830-278guides.

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CLOSURE

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Briscoe-Garner Museum was closed to the public at the time of this printing.

To learn if the site is open, please call 830-278-5018 or see www.cah.utexas.edu/coronavirus.php.

Typical hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

m e u s u M “CACTUS JACK”

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.

Uvalde Leader-News 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.

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n w o t n w o Let ’s go d

Like many North American cities founded in the 19th century, Uvalde was laid out with plazas in the central part of town, which provided gathering places for the citizens.

According to a story by Jane Knapik in the centennial edition of The Uvalde Leader-News, four central plazas were part of the design by the town’s founder, Reading W. Black.

“Survey work began on May 2, 1855,” Knapik’s article states.

“This is considered the birthdate of Uvalde, or Encina (live oak), as it was originally called.”

Renowned Uvalde historian, the late Ike Moore, wrote, “Using the Eagle Pass road (now Main Street) as the axis, the surveyor divided the town into 464 lots, four plazas, a park, a garden, a schoolhouse square and a cemetery.”

Moore also wrote, “The Market Plaza, later called the Bandstand Plaza, is now called the Town Plaza.” Knapik’s article mentioned that in the early days the Market Plaza had a meat market on it.

The inscription on a historical marker on the northwest corner Olga Charles|Leader-News Mario Quintanilla with Mario’s Electric stands next to the downtown plaza of the plaza noted that the plaza once served as an early Texas fountain, which he volunteered his time to help restore, complete with wagon yard, a place of shelter for drivers, teams and wagons. water jets and lighting. In the process, he earned the Main Street Uvalde program’s inaugural shining start award in 2019 for his efforts. The original A block west of this site was the F.A. Piper Co. wagon yard, fountain consisted of water jets and special lighting inside the existing pool. which Piper built and allowed his customers to use free of charge, In the 1970s, the water jets and lighting were replaced by the fountain that is according to the marker. now in the middle of the pool.

Later, a bandstand, used by the Evans Uvalde Band and other performers, was built. In 1961, a fountain was installed in the plaza, but was later converted to a garden area.

Today three of the plazas are occupied by the Uvalde County Courthouse, Uvalde City Hall, the United States Post Office. One remaining plaza still provides a gathering place for the citizens of Uvalde.

Filled with native plants and other greenery, the garden plaza now contains park benches where area residents and visitors can enjoy lunchtime or anytime respites.

Meghann Garcia|Leader-News During the Christmas season, downtown Uvalde, at the intersection of Highway 90 and Highway 83, is always aglow in holiday light displays from the plaza, Uvalde County Courthouse, Uvalde City Hall, and surrounding businesses. Multiple speakers are set up around the plaza, playing Christmas music as visitors walk through to view the Christmas decorations and deliver their letters to Santa Claus in the special mailbox set up in the northeast section.

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Sweet Tweet Photo by Bob Shackleford

South of Uvalde, cardinals and house finches find a tasty buffet at Uvalde photographer Bob Shackleford’s home.

Due to its prime location, Uvalde has become a hotspot for bird watchers, both the professional kind and the recreational.

Birders took a heightened interest in this area in 1992, following the first sighting of the collared plover in the United States in Uvalde County.

Popular areas for birding include Fort Inge, Lost Maples State Natural Area, the National Fish Hatchery, Chalk Bluff and Cooks Slough Wetlands Park.

Several birders had confirmed sightings of a rufous capped warbler at Park Chalk Bluff on Highway 55 northwest of Uvalde in April of 1995. A native of southern Mexico, Honduras and Central Guatemala, the bird had only been sighted twice in the United States prior to the Chalk Bluff sightings. Green jays, a more tropical species, are now routinely sighted in Uvalde County.

The greatest economic and recreational impact of birding has come from bird watching being viewed as a nonconsumptive use of wildlife.

Millions of people all over the world have taken up bird watching as a hobby, from those who feed birds in their backyards, to novice birders, to people that are avid at listing birds, to the ultimate professional birders who help others to seek out, identify and enjoy birds all over the world.

Almost 10,000 species of birds have been identified worldwide and more new species are being discovered constantly. More than 800 of these birds breed in North America (north of the Mexico border), visit the continent

regularly or drop in occasionally as the collared plover did in 1992.

To emphasize the importance of Texas to the North American population of birds, about 600 of these bird species have been recorded in Texas. This is where birds funnel in from throughout Canada and the United States en route to southern wintering grounds or on the way north to breeding grounds.

Texas has more birds than any other state. This attracts bird watchers from everywhere, both in the U.S. and around the world. In addition to the Concan and Uvalde area, the Rio Grande Valley and the Gulf Coast region are prime birding sites and very attractive to many birders.

More than half the birds recorded for Texas have been seen in Uvalde County, indicating the importance of the area for birds as well as the economic potential for Southwest Texas.

For many, birding is more than finding, identifying and listing birds. It includes enjoyment, relaxation and drawing closer to nature.

To many who have practiced birding, no other creature can offer the bird’s variety of color and beauty of song. Some birds even seem to enjoy performing for an audience.

Although millions of Americans are members of organizations such as the National Audubon Society, American Birding Association, Texas Ornithological Society and thousands of local birding clubs, anyone can enjoy bird watching.

If one is interested in bird watching, the ways to get started are very simple. Set up a backyard feeding station. Learn

to identify the common birds that come in to partake of the free food. Enjoy the behavioral antics, colors and songs of your backyard guests. You can often increase the variety of bird species visiting your feeders by using various types of feed.

Information is available on how to attract birds. A word of caution, however, is in order.

Protect your background friends by keeping the feeders and water containers clean by periodically washing and scrubbing them. Disease spreads quickly and easily where animals congregate.

After a while, you might want

to learn more. To do this, join a local birding club. Go on local birding trips with your club or a more seasoned birder. If your interest increases, consider going on tours or extended trips with a group led by a professional birder.

Birding equipment can be simple. All you need is a decent pair of binoculars and a field guide for helping to identify birds.

The only other requirement is a lot of patience. With these few supplies you can enjoy bird watching along with millions of other birders in the United States.

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