Discover Ennis Fall 2019

DISCOVER Ennis FALL 2019

A Complete Guide to the Official Bluebonnet City of Texas

| A Downtown Reborn | Festivals, Events, Fun

WELCOMETOENNIS! Welcome to the wonderful town of Ennis, Texas where

you will find the bluebonnet spirit all year long! What is “bluebonnet spirit” you may wonder. Bluebonnet spirit is friendliness, love of neighbors, hospitality and a get-it-done mindset. Whether you are visiting us for a short period of time or are a lifelong resident, you know what it means to truly feel welcome when you are in our town.

Here in Ennis we are known for a good time. With festivals and events all year long, there is always something fun and exciting happening. Every Saturday morning through the end of October, we have Saturday Mornings at Minnie; free, family-friendly programs that feature anything from the Perot Tech Truck to break dancers and of course the Farmers Market where you can purchase fresh produce, baked goods, hand-made crafts and visit with neighbors. There will also be a hay maze in the North Plaza Public lot the entire month of October and it will be bigger and better than ever!

Ennis Autumn Daze is a day full of fall fun featuring children’s activities, craft beer garden and energetic live entertainment. This year it will also include a cornhole tournament and costume contest and will kick-off with the Monster Mash 5K Dash. In December, we kick off a month long Christmas celebration with the Lights of Ennis Parade and Block Party. Throughout the holiday season enjoy outdoor movie nights, carriage rides, snow and plenty of photo ops!

Ennis is the place to make all of your holiday memories! We would like to thank Frank Kent Ennis for being a wonderful community partner who helps make these events possible.

Of course everyone knows what happens here in the spring. As the “Official Texas Bluebonnet City,” our town is painted blue with fields of bluebonnets the entire month of

April. We host the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival which is a three-day Ashley Colunga event full of family fun, shopping, Marketing and wine wander and a full lineup of Communications Director City of Ennis live music. In May, we celebrate Czech culture in a unique and lively way. Trust us, you have never experienced Polka like this before! During the summer, we celebrate our patriotism with Ennis Freedom Fest and dance on the streets during Blues on Main.

Make sure to visit Ennis’ historic downtown where you will find wonderful shopping and dining. There are many new downtown businesses for you to explore. While downtown you will see a lot of exciting changes as we undergo an amazing revitalization project that will make downtown even more special than it already is. Here We Grow!

There are also numerous attractions in Ennis to check out on your next visit. Watch your favorite movie under the stars at the popular 7 screen drive in theatre, the Galaxy Drive-in Theatre. Catch a live play at the Ennis Public Theatre or at Theatre Rocks. Check out an action packed car race at the Texas Motorplex and Big O Speedway or simply relax at Minnie McDowal Park.

Download our free mobile app, Ennis Y’all, where you will have access to all Ennis has to offer and follow us at Ennis TX: A Main Street City on Facebook.

Please stop by the Ennis Visitor Center to get your free Ennis visitors guides. We are currently located at 204 W. Knox St. and are looking forward to moving into our new location at 201 NW Main St. in early 2020. We can be reached at 972-8784748. Visit us at www.visitennis.org.

Welcome to Ennis Y’all!

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Special thanks to the City of Ennis, Ennis Convention & Visitors Bureau, Ennis Main Street, Ennis Chamber of Commerce, and Ennis Independent School District. Additional images courtesy of Ennis Chamber of Commerce, Bruce Lattimer Photography, and other contributors.

Discover Fall 2019 is a publication of The Ennis News. Features by Mark Warde and Randy Bigham. Copyright 2019. All rights reserved. For more copies, contact us at The Ennis News or go online to www.ennisdailynews.com.

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ENNISREADIESFORFALL Ennis Autumn Daze Festival is the Bluebonnet City’s

kickoff to the fall season. Although Ennis’ Polka Festival celebrates Czechoslovakian culture in the spring each year, autumn is also associated with it. October is in fact Czech Heritage Month.

This year marks the 18th annual fall festival in Ennis.

Formerly called “Autumn Days in Ennis,” the fest started in 2002.

Even before Ennis’ Fall festival begins, residents across the city busily decorate their homes in autumnal glory.

Pumpkins and scarecrows of various sizes and personalities, long representative of harvest time, jostle for space with haystacks, bright potted flowers and wreaths. One audacious citizen even displays a giant blow-up turkey flanked by Snoopy, beloved character of the Macy’s Day Parade.

Kids join in the festive fun of decorating and by the time Autumn Daze approaches, there is plenty of autumn cheer to go around.

In Discover Ennis’ fall edition, readers will find more information on Autumn Daze activities, celebrations scheduled at the Texas Motorplex, events set for the final weeks of the Ennis Farmers Market and other highlights of autumn in Ennis.

Readers can “Czech out” local Czechoslovakian history at the Sokol Activity Center Museum and Library. Get a line on the arts scene by attending high quality stage performances at the Ennis Public Theatre and Theatre Rocks!.

Learn more about the overall history of the Bluebonnet City by stopping by the Ennis Railroad and Cultural Heritage Museum, and get into the holiday spirit for the crowning event of the season, the annual Lights of Ennis Christmas Parade and Block Party.

The Lights of Ennis Parade is now in its 19th year of celebrating the unique spirit of the City of Ennis.

SATURDAY OCTOBER 26 | 9AM-9PM • VENDORS • FOOD • MUSIC • FUN!

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Museum and Library: Czech it out Ennis’ Czech heritage is celebrated at the Sokol Hall Activity Center’s Czech Museum and Library.

Exhibits include authentic Czech costumes, memorabilia, dolls, photographs, crystal and books.

The museum and library is open during special events and by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, call Georgie Morales at 972-875-5398.

KATOLICKA JEDNOTA TEXASKA SOCIETY NO. 35 Members: Approximately 1,250 Community Outreach & Activities:

KJT youth program, scholarships for KJT members who are graduating seniors

History:

KJT Society began so that Czech immigrants could bond with each other after coming to the United States. The Ennis chapter was founded in 1900. KJT began accepting women members in 1980. Although it started out as an exclusively Catholic organization, in 2008, KJT opened membership to all Christians.

SOKOL Members: Approximately 300 Community Outreach & Activities:

Sokol provides gymnastics and fitness classes for all, and a twirling program. Facilities can be used for community functions, weddings, and other parties.

History:

Sokol, which means falcon in Czech, was founded in 1862 in Prague, and brought to the United States by Czech immigrants to preserve their heritage.

The Ennis unit was formed in 1908.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS Members: Between 350 and 400 members Community Outreach & Activities:

KC members perform charity work, organize benefits and scholarships for graduating seniors. KC Hall can be used for weddings and other occasions.

History:

Knights of Columbus was founded in 1881 in Connecticut to provide for widows and orphans.

KC was so named to honor Christopher Columbus, who brought Christianity to the Americas.

The Ennis chapter was formed in 1908.

SPJST LODGE #25 Members: Approximately 700 Community Outreach & Activities:

SPJST #25 Youth Program; Scholarships for SPJST Members who are graduating seniors; SPJST Lodge #25 Bar open every Wednesday Night from 5pm-10pm; Kitchen/Dining Room, Bar, and Hall available for bookings for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, holiday parties and special occasions. New Year’s Eve Party with live music featuring The Moravians and a Balloon Drop. Facebook / Instagram: @spjstennistx

History:

SPJST stands for Slovanska Podporujici Jednota Statu Texas which translates to Slavonic Benefit Order of the State of Texas. SPJST Lodge #25 was established in 1897.

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THEATRELIVESHERE

Ennis is home to two local theater organizations, each

Bill Rhoten, artistic director, and Suzanne Rhoten, executive director, have teamed together in Dallas area performing arts for well over 30 years and have been active in both producing and directing in Ennis since 2002.

Located near downtown at 505 NW Main Street, visit TheatreRocks.com or their Facebook page or call 972-8785126 for additional info.

Upcoming shows slated for this season include On Gold Pond (Oct. 11-12, 18-19, 25-27), A Christmas Carol (Dec. 6-7, 13-15, 20-21), Forever (Feb. 7-8, 14-15, 21-23), An Orphan’s Adventure (April 24-25, May 1-3, 8-9) and A Trip to Bountiful (June 12-13, 19-20, 26-28).

of which presents six productions a year and offers other entertainment on their respective stages. Ennis residents and those in the local area are exposed to some great shows at Ennis Public Theatre and Theatre Rocks! Plus, they get the chance to be part of a production.

Ennis Public Theatre, an Ennis Treasure

An extraordinary find in Ellis County is the live drama productions available year-round as delivered by the Ennis Public Theatre. With over a decade of plays under their belt, EPT produces superb live entertainment at a reasonable cost.

Part of the Main Street revitalization program in Ennis, EPT is located in their new downtown digs at 113 N. Dallas St., where the atmosphere and amenities are outstanding.

The theatre delights audiences of all ages with laugh out loud comedies, heart warming dramas, lively musicals and “K.I.D.S.” productions. Headed by husband and wife duo Julie Mitchell and Markus Baldwin as artistic directors, managing director Brianna Roberts, children’s director Amy Urbanowicz, and supported by a board of directors and a receptive community, the Ennis Public Theatre continues to grow.

To see what’s going on or for more information log on to www.ennispublictheatre.com or call 972-878-PLAY.

Theatre Rocks! Under Rhotens’ leadership

Founded in 2012, Theatre Rocks! Is a very popular venue for live plays. An intimate atmosphere with seating for approximately 75, the talent you’ll find is big and productions are unique and well-performed featuring local amateurs working alongside well-trained actors.

Theatre Rocks has produced a number of well-known hits, from “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof ” by Tennessee Williams to Sam Shepard’s “True West” and “12 Angry Men” in the summer of 2019.

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On Golden Pond

by Ernest Thompson Running October 11,12,18, 19, 25, 26, 27

A Christmas Carol

novella by Charles Dickens, adapted for the stage by Lisa Rosewell and Kate Vega Running December 6, 7, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21

Forever

by Bill Rhoten Running February 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 23

An Orphan’s Adventure

by H. Lee McMillion Running April 24, 25, May 1, 2, 3, 8, 9

The Trip to Bountiful

by Horton Foote Running June 12,13, 19, 20, 26, 27, 28

505 NW Main St. Ennis 972. 878. 5126 Ticket Prices : Adults $15 Senior Adults & Students $12 www.theatrerocks.com

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TEXASMOTORPLEX

Texas Motorplex hosts a National Hot Rod Event event each racing season which draws fans from across the globe.

The Texas Motorplex is known nationwide for being the host of the prestigious AAA Texas NHRA Fall Nationals event each fall, but it’s also a year-round racing center, located about two miles west of Ennis.

Events start in February and run through November, among them National Hot Rod Diesel Association events, Import Face Offs, car shows, and Fast Fridays.

Fast Fridays give people a chance to take their own cars to the strip to give drag racing a try. It’s a way for people to legally satisfy their need for speed, and for a very reasonable fee, anyone can head to the track and race unlimited times.

Home of the world speed record of 333.95 mph, the Texas Motorplex is considered one of the finest one-quarter mile drag racing facilities in the nation.

Constructed in 1986 by Billy Meyer, the Texas Motorplex is known across the country as “the ultimate drag racing facility” both by drivers and the fans alike. The Motorplex hosts over 90 events each year, with 500,000 fans visiting the race track annually. Ennis welcomes the racers and race fans with open arms.

If you are just visiting or planning to come back, be sure to get your hotel reservations early. Ennis is blessed with great lodging, and they fill up as fast as a dragster on the strip.

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FANFEST On the first day of the AAA Texas

NHRA Fall Nationals at Ennis’ Texas Motorplex is the PreStage Fan Fest.

This free event is your opportunity to get up close to dragsters, funny cars, muscle cars and classics lining the streets of downtown Ennis.

Children enjoy the junior dragsters, which race on Friday night.

Plus, enjoy food trucks and live bands for an evening of fun for the whole family!

AAA Texas NHRA Fall Nationals - Oct.17-20 The fastest race in Texas is held at the Texas Motorplex every year in Ennis.

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ENNISEVENTSCALENDAR OCTOBER Oct. 10 Sip, Shop, and Stroll downtown Ennis Oct. 12 Sky Lantern Festival at Texas Motorplex Oct. 4-20 Young Frankenstein at Ennis Public Theatre Oct. 5 Social Media Workshop at the Hoefer House B&B Oct. 11 Wildfire Band at the American Legion 706 Oct. 11-27 On Golden Pond at Theatre Rocks!

Oct. 5 Karaoke & Wine at Sugar Ridge Winery Oct. 12 Music & Wine w/Darren Rozzell Sugar Ridge Winery Oct. 17 NHRA Fall Nationals Fan Fest downtown Ennis Oct. 17-20 NHRA Fall Nationals at Texas Motorplex Oct. 18 Karaoke with DJ Don at the Sokol Oct. 19 Music & Wine w/Josh Jacarrd at Sugar Ridge Winery Oct. 25-26 Street Outlaws No Prep Kings Texas Motorplex Oct. 26 Ennis Autumn Daze Festival downtown Ennis Oct. 26 Monster Mash 5K Dash and Fun Run Oct. 26 Farmers Market Finale- Downtown Ennis 12 - DISCOVER ENNIS FALL 2019

NOVEMBER Nov. 14 Sip, Shop and Stroll downtown Ennis Nov. 16 Turkey Trot Bowling Tournament at All Star Bowl Nov. 29 - Dec.15 The Best Christmas Pageant Ever at EPT Nov. 30 Shop Small Saturday downtown DECEMBER Dec. 5 Lights of Ennis Parade & Block Party downtown Dec. 5 -15 The Best Christmas Pageant Ever at EPT Dec. 6 - 21 A Christmas Carol at Theatre Rocks!

Dec. 7 Lucky Car Club car show & toy drive downtown Dec. 8 Christmas Home Tour Dec. 12 Our Lady of Guadalupe Procession Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Party - SPJST FEBRUARY Feb. 8 Ennis Czech Music Festival Feb. 7-23 Forever at Theatre Rocks!

Feb. 15 Fundraiser dinner, dance, auction - SPJST

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FRIDAY FRIDAYNIGHTLIGHTS W hen fall rolls around TGIF takes on a spirited meaning, and its color is maroon. Friday night lights shine brightly for Ennis High School and has for decades. In fact, the game of football has been played on Fridays for over a century.

Five times the Lions have advanced to the state championship game, winning every time, most recently in 2014 before 28,000 at AT&T Stadium.

A long pass, from QB Devin Smith to WR Donta Thompson, ended in the game-winning touchdown in a 38-35 triumph over Cedar Park. The game was also broadcast on television, so most everyone in the area says they saw it because they were there. Sort of.

Lion Nation, like most small-towns, loves them some high school football,

and when the team is winning they travel like a herd to whatever stadium the Oval E’s are playing. In fact, it is common for Ennis to outnumber the fans of the home team on the road.

While donning the colors of the Lions is pretty near required, the only mistake one can make is to be seen in dreaded green or royal blue. A rival school 15-miles to the west puts on the first color while a school 20-miles to the south, who calls Ennis their rival, sports the blue. Avoid related pigment in fashion on Fridays.

At home in the friendly confines of Lion Memorial Stadium, which opened in 2001 and seats 10,000 fans, the team averages approximately 14 - DISCOVER ENNIS FALL 2019

seven-to-eight thousand, with open seating usually left for the opposing side of the field.

The school has produced scores of award-winning teams, college-bound athletes, and for the last 60 years, a superior-rated marching band. The atmosphere they create can only be capped with the hand-shaped letter “L,” and a fight song that must be memorized to attend first grade.

Almost, but you get the idea.

Cheer teams are rousing up fans who need little rousing. Plus, the Lionettes dance troupe has over 30 years under their wide white belts and cowgirl hats. If it seems like there is room on the bandwagon for newcomers, you’d be correct in your thinking.

Traditions carry strong meaning in this town, where conservative family values, a strong work ethic and a living faith will bring automatic respect, and a Czech name will bring honor. Few places in this country circle the wagons in support of the military, the colors wafting on a flag pole and especially the heart of meeting the needs of their own. Ennis gives mightily to its organizations, civic groups, heritage halls, veterans service organizations, Helping Hands, Give-A-KidA-Chance and churches, to name a few.

It is no wonder they have such pride for those who call the Bluebonnet City their home. Race or creed or nationality are free from much of the tension seen in many metropolitan areas.

And when Friday’s in the fall arrive, late August through November, and in special seasons it stretches into middle December, everyone is either at the game or tuning in to the radio.

Everybody loves a winner and Ennis

has had their share. Starting in 2012 under HC Jack Alvarez and through 2019 with Hall-of-Fame HC Sam Harrell, back for a second go-around, the team has made the playoffs for eight years and counting.

As for being coronated Lion Kings, the first was in 1975 under the late HC Don Essary. Harrell won 3-in-4-years and Alvarez notched the fifth in 2014.

In the process, Ennis has been a haven for a quality education, athletics that instill values worth learning and living, and being a city that makes for the best in small-town Americana.

No wonder so many keep wearing maroon or return here after college.

It truly is a wonderful town to grow a family, operate a business and the stage shines brightest on Fridays.

To follow all things maroon, visit EnnisLions.org.

National Polka Festival Memorial Day Weekend, May 22-24, 2020 Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Bluebonnet Trails Festival April 17-19, 2020 April 1-30, 2020

Memorial Weekend, May 24-26, 2019

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APLACEOFHISTORY The Ennis Railroad and Cultural Heritage Museum is located on Northeast Main Street, along the railroad tracks.

Ennis was founded as part of the westward expansion that followed the Civil War and was aided by the development of steam transportation. In 1872 the Houston and Central Texas Railroad arrived at the depot that became Ennis, named after Cornelius Ennis, railroad official and former mayor of Houston. From 1874 to the mid1880s, the population of Ennis grew from 300 to 3,000.

Many settlers came from war-torn confederate states, others came from war-ravaged European nations that later became Czechoslovakia.

“The city began with a few buildings east and west of the tracks,” according to ennishistoricalsociety.org, the online home for the Ennis Historical Society, formerly the Ennis Heritage Society, founded in 1981. “Lumberyards, cotton warehouses and other freight sheds lined the tracks and the main commercial center of Ennis took shape on south Main Street and Ennis Avenue. To the south, near Main and Lampasas Streets several cotton gins served to process the cotton grown in eastern Ellis County; and at harvest time planters brought their wagons of cotton to town for Trade Day.” The first commercial firms were dry goods, clothing and pharmaceuticals, supplying basic needs of new settlers. Business lots sold for $50. Most early structures were wooden and fire was a constant hazard necessitating the formation of the Ennis Fire Department in 1884. The frontier town lacked public facilities like water, sewage and law enforcement. The new town was full of strangers from various social groups and safety was a prime concern.

Several newspaper reports detail numerous shoot-outs and thirteen saloons added to the volatile atmosphere.

“Economic growth in the 1890s enabled Ennis to afford more of the basics of a stable community,” the Ennis Historical Society records. “In 1891 several community

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leaders, led by Joseph Baldridge, Captain Mark Latimer and others, convinced the railroad to locate its northern division headquarters here. Its foundry, machine shop, roundtable and rail yard offered jobs to hundreds of workers who settled in Ennis. Some were former slaves and other farmhands, displaced by mechanization and largescale agriculture and others were immigrant Czechs recently arrived from abroad. The railroad also led to the expansion of the cotton industry, providing access to foreign and domestic markets through the port of Houston.”

By 1920, a total of 152,601 bales of cotton were ginned and shipped from Ellis County, the most of any county in America. Railroads and cotton had produced the wealth that could be seen in the residential development of the city. Residents had built beautiful churches of many different denominations and numerous fraternal organizations met regularly to espouse action to strengthen the social fabric. Elegant houses along “the Avenue” and north were accompanied by dozens of folk Victorian houses and craftsman style bungalows.

By the mid-20th century Ennis had become a modern community with schools, three movie theaters, several drugstores, banks and automobile dealerships. The sons and daughters of early settlers had developed new traditions like high school sports, the National Polka Festival and the Ennis Bluebonnet Trail.

Moreover the city was connected to the growing metropolis of Dallas to the north by the Interurban Transit line and increasingly better roads. Ennisites were able to experience the best of two worlds, participation in the attractions of a large, dynamic city and the familiar streetscape of a unique, nurturing community.

Donations to the Ennis Historical Society help the organization preserve the best of Ennis’ past for future generations. To become a member visit ennishistoricalsociety.org, stop by the group’s Facebook page or write to PO Box 189, Ennis, TX 75120.

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The Southern Pacific’s ‘Sunbeam’ passing through Ennis in 1936.

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ENNIS ENNISVETERANS MEMORIAL Ennis Veterans Memorial Park, located at 2301 Ennis Pkwy, was dedicated to those who gave their lives to protect American freedom.

The Veterans Memorial monuments honor veterans from each 20th and 21st Century U.S. military conflict.

In addition to the memorial site, there are three lighted competition football /soccer fields for league play and six youth soccer fields, available for use by reservation.

There is also a building for concession and restroom facilities, a 0.4 mile of walking paths, picnic tables and a children’s playground.

Veterans Memorial Park has been open to the public since August 2011, and many have enjoyed its recreational amenities since then.

A salute in brick and mortar to the men and women of America’s Armed Forces, the memorial has been the backdrop for many local patriotic events.

The memorial is now known nationally as in his campaign to secure better medical care for fellow sufferers of Agent Orange (AO), Vietnam War veteran Gerry Wright has referenced how the AO monument erected at the Ennis site inspired him in his work to change the law governing health coverage for AO survivors.

The memorial takes the form of a circular promenade with a centerpiece devoted to veterans and surrounding sections dedicated to specific conflicts, from World War I to the current War on Terror. Larry Fincher, chairman of the committee that supervised the building of the monument, stressed the main objective is to pay homage to all enlisted personnel.

“We want to honor all U.S. veterans,” he said, “whether they served in a war or not, whether dead or alive and whether they are from Ennis or not.”

For more information, contact City of Ennis Parks Department at 972-875-1234.

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CHRISTMASPARADEOF PARADE LIGHTS PARADEOF Kick off the holiday season with the annual Christmas Parade of Lights and Block Party presented by the Ennis Chamber of Commerce and Lights of Ennis.

A festive holiday parade, live music/dance performances, food trucks, children’s crafts, and photo-ops with Santa are sure to get you in the holiday spirit!

Founded nearly 20 years ago, the Lights of Ennis Steering Committee took over the event five years ago, according to Ashley Colunga, the city’s marketing and communications director. The committee begins planning meetings as early as July/August to ensure the event provides an exciting experience for all who attend.

“The Christmas Lights of Ennis and Block Party is

a beloved community-based event that really kicks off the Christmas Spirit in the city of Ennis,” said Colunga.

“This is a very locally-focused event that truly brings our community together during one of the most magical times of the year.”

The Lights of Ennis has now expanded beyond the parade and block party and now includes a skating rink, carriage rides, movie nights, imitation snow and fun photo ops for the entire month of December.

“Each year the parade float entries increase and the designs and lighting become more elaborate,” said Colunga. The full schedule of events is available at visitennis.org.

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LAKEBARDWELLRESERVOIR Ellis County is home to one of

the largest recreational facilities in North Texas – Lake Bardwell Reservoir. It is one of the most visited tourist spots in the county.

Thousands of residents and tourists visit the 3,500-acre lake each year, enjoying fishing, boating, camping, picnicking, swimming, hiking, biking, and just about any other outdoor activity within and along its 25 miles of shoreline. It is more than 5 miles long and more than 1 mile wide at its largest point.

Both the lake and surrounding campgrounds are maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which features a marina and

several boat ramps.

You can reach the marina at 972-646-5330.

Camping reservations or additional information is available at 972-8755711 or recreation.gov.

Congress authorized construction of the reservoir of the Bardwell Reservoir on March 31, 1960.

Construction began in September 1963.

Impoundment of water at the lake, which provides flood control and conservation platform for area water, began in November

1965. It cost more than $12 million to build.

Bardwell is known for its fishing, with bass, catfish and crappie the most-targeted catches.

FUN&GAMESGALORE So you like fun and games? Ennis and the local area offer a little bit of everything for people.

• Bluebonnet Park: On Ennis Parkway, west of Hwy 287, and follow the signs. Facility includes eight lighted ball fields, 10 acres of dedicated recreational open space, a two-acre fishing lake, and a 0.7-mile jogging path. This magnificent facility is available for softball and baseball tournaments and attracts teams from all across the State of Texas.

• Community theaters – Ennis Public Theatre and Theatre Rocks! See story elsewhere in this edition.

• Disc golf located adjacent to the dam on the south end of Lake Clark, at 3000 W. Ennis Ave. • Big O Speedway: Located east of Ennis, the facility offers dirt track racing on weekends March-October.

• E.I.S.D. Tennis Center: 9 championship quality tennis courts (4 indoors), snack bar, and pro shop.

• Ennis All-Star Bowl– 2313 W. Ennis Ave. • Galaxy Drive-In Theatre features seven screens.

• Golf is open to the public at Red Oak Valley Golf Club in Red Oak and at the Old Brickyard course in Ferris.

• Highview Park at Lake Bardwell: Picnic and/or swim there. This park requires a facility use fee per carload. For camping reservations, etc, please call 972-875-5711 or go to recreation.gov.

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• Highview Marina at Lake Bardwell: 972-646-5330.

• Lake Clark Park: Found on the west end of Baldridge Street, it is a perfect place to have a picnic, to fish, to play on the playground, or to take a walk with a lake view. Check out Kachina Prairie and the bison statue there.

• Lions Park: Corner of Hall and Lampasas streets.

• Meadow View Nature Area: 972-878-4748 for hours.

• Minnie McDowal Park is a unique gathering spot for families located at 119 N. Dallas featuring a gazebo, art wall and water feature.

• Opry: Located in the old Bristol School, about 15 minutes east of Ennis, the Opry features local talent performing live on stage. The show goes on the fourth Saturday of each month at 7 p.m., except in December. The Bardwell Opry, located in the Bardwell Community Center, is every fifth Saturday.

• Railroad & Cultural Heritage Museum: 972-875-1901.

• Sugar Ridge Winery in Bristol offers local wines, a private tasting room, and reception area.

• Texas Motorplex: 972-878-2641.

• Veterans Memorial Park at 2301 Ennis Parkway features a veterans memorial and athletic fields. Youth soccer is a favorite activity played at Veterans Park.

• Xtreme Raceway Park Ferris: Info on Facebook.

BY THE #’S

OFFICIALS CITY OF ENNIS

18,823

Census Estimated Population in 2014 Angeline Juenemann Mayor

Matt Walker

Mayor Pro-Tem

Rowdy Pruitt

Ward 1 Commissioner

Marco Hernandez

Ward 2 Commissioner

39

Miles from Ennis to downtown Dallas

5

State Football Championships

38.1

Percentage of homes with children under 18 Scott Hejny

Ward 3 Commissioner

Shirley Watson

Ward 4 Commissioner

Bill Honza

Ward 5 Commissioner

John Erisman Chief of Police

INFORMATION City of Ennis, 972-875-1234 Ennis Police Department, 972-875-4462 Ennis Fire Department / Ambulance Service, 972-875-3473 Ennis Fire Station #2, 972-875-6151 Ennis Fire Station #3, 972-895-3313 Ennis Regional Medical Center, 972-875-0900 Ennis Chamber of Commerce, 972-878-2625 Ennis Convention & Visitors Bureau, 972-878-4748 City of Ennis Economic Development, 972-878-4748 City of Ennis Health & Inspections, 972-878-6442 Ennis Independent School District, 972-872-7000 The Ennis News, 972-875-3801 Ennis Main Street Program, 972-878-4748 Go to www.visitennis.org Ennis Public Library, 972-875-5360 or download the ENNISY’ALL app for event times and dates.

Ennis Municipal Airport, 972-875-4279

Do you need information for your visit? Go to www.visitennis.org, or contact the Ennis Chamber of Commerce at 972-878-2625 or www. ennis-chamber.com. Download the free mobile app, Ennis Y’all, for Ennis information and where to shop, stay, do and see!

44,608

Median family income in dollars

11

Number of Ennis Independent School District instructional facilities

2020 & 54th

National Polka Festival celebrates its 54th anniversary in May 2020

1/4

Length in miles of drag races at Texas Motorplex

2

Number of Operating Stage Theaters

40

Miles of Bluebonnet Trails

DISCOVERNEWDOWNTOWNENNIS

The revitalization of the Bluebonnet City is alive

and well, with roughly 20,000 residents and the growth of new housing and incoming businesses, both along the interstate corridor and in downtown, just a mile from I-45.

What could have been the death knell to Ennis, a tornado that destroyed parts of downtown on May 13, 2013 and then fawned 13 local twisters, brought a new-found purpose as inhabitants began rebuilding and restoring downtown. The Historical Society helped foster a desire to parlay seeming defeat for a spirit of revival.

Even buildings that had past their usefulness have yielded to investors and projects as the heart is getting far more than a face lift.

A complete transformation is under works,

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with the Dallas Street project nearing completion in the fall of 2019.

Minnie McDowal Park (N. Dallas at W. Knox) has been just one of several major benefactors: new restaurants and night life, retail, offices, apartments and lofts, banking and a soon-to-befinished dog park, all within blocks of each other.

The heart of Ennis is beating for a reason.

Few towns have the number of festivals that make Ennis a destination for families. The special events give substance to the wholesome life here. A series of multi-cultural festivals bring a few thousand to 40,000 during Memorial Weekend for the National Polka Festival. The strong attractions have a magnetic appeal to the area.

The city is alive!