2012: Images Del Rio, TX

2012-13 | livability.com/del-rio/tx 速

Del rio, texas

Reel Fun, Real Relaxation Fishing, birding, water, history attract visitors

FOR ALL THE RIGHT REASONS Residents list positives of living here

boom town Growth continues

sponsored by the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce

2012 edition | volume 3 速

Del Rio, Texas co nte nt s F e atu r e s

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10 Reel Fun, Real Relaxation Fishing, birding, water, history attract visitors

16 For All the Right Reasons Residents list positives of living here

20 Boom Town Growth continues

d e pa r tm e nt s 6 Almanac 24 Biz Briefs 26 Chamber Report 27 Economic Profile 28 See the City 34 Health & Wellness 36 Local Flavor 38 Arts & Culture 42 Sports & Recreation 44 Education 47 Community Profile 48 Through the Lens

on the cover Diablo East portion of the Amistad National Recreation Area Photo by Brian McCord

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

Please recycle this magazine

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What’s Online livability.com/del-rio/tx Photos

See more great photos of Del Rio in our online photo galleries.

2012-13 | LIvAbILITy.COm/dEL-RIO/Tx ®

dEL RIO, TExAS

Reel Fun, Real Relaxation Fishing, birding, water, history attract visitors

FOR ALL THE RIGHT REASONS Residents list positives of living here

bOOm TOwN Growth continues

SpONSOREd by THE dEL RIO CHAmbER OF COmmERCE

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Del Rio, Tex as editorial project Manager mitch Kline content Director Lisa battles Proofreading Manager Raven Petty Content Coordinator Jessica Walker Staff Writer Kevin Litwin Contributing writers Barbara Biehler, Laura Hill, Joe Morris, Braxton Shoop Senior Graphic Designers Laura Gallagher, Janine Maryland, Kris Sexton, Jake SHores, Vikki Williams Graphic Designers Rachael Gerringer, Erica Lampley, Taylor nunley, Kasey Passmore Senior Photographers Jeff Adkins, Brian McCord Staff Photographers Todd Bennett, Antony Boshier color imaging technician Alison Hunter Integrated Media Manager jordan moore Ad Production Manager Katie Middendorf Ad Traffic Assistants Krystin Lemmon, Patricia Moisan Chairman Greg Thurman President/Publisher Bob Schwartzman Executive Vice President Ray Langen Senior V.P./Sales Todd Potter Senior V.P./Operations Casey Hester Senior V.P./Client Development Jeff Heefner Senior V.P./business Development Scott Templeton senior V.P./Agribusiness Publishing Kim HOlmberg V.P./business Development clay perry V.p./External Communications Teree Caruthers V.P./Visual Content Mark Forester V.P./Content Operations Natasha Lorens v.p./Travel publishing Susan Chappell V.P./Sales rhonda graham, herb Harper, Jarek Swekosky Controller Chris Dudley Senior Accountant Lisa Owens Accounts Payable Coordinator Maria McFarland Accounts Receivable Coordinator Diana Guzman sales support Coordinator alex marks sales support project manager sara quint system administrator daniel cantrell Web creative director allison davis Web Content Manager John Hood Web project manager noy fongnaly Web designer II Richard stevens Web development lead Yamel Hall Web developer i nels noseworthy Photography Director Jeffrey S. Otto Creative Services Director Christina Carden Creative Technology Analyst becca ary audience development Director deanna nelson New Media Assistant Alyssa DiCicco Distribution Director Gary Smith Executive Secretary Kristy Duncan Human Resources Manager Peggy Blake Receptionist Linda Bishop

Images Del Rio, Texas is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses.

For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by email at info@jnlcom.com.

For more information, contact: Del Rio Chamber of Commerce 1915 Veterans Blvd, Del Rio, TX 78840 Phone: (830) 775-3551 • Fax: (830) 774-1813 www.drchamber.com Visit Images Del Rio, Texas online at livability.com/del-rio/tx ©Copyright 2012 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent.

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Almanac

Welcome to Del Rio An introduction to the area’s people, places and events

Springing to Life

New Business in Older Areas Historic downtown Del Rio is being revitalized by the variety of businesses setting up shop. Las Playas Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar boasts live music and distinct delicacies such as Rockefeller Filet, Molcajetes and the Scorpion Shrimp Platter. CoreFitness is a fitness studio that offers exercise machines; courses in exercise routines like yoga, aerobics and Tai Chi; and more than 1,600 square feet of floor space. Visit www.corefitnessdelrio.com for more information. Buffalo Girls is a boutique in the heart of downtown that offers jewelry, shoes, clothes and home décor from such brands as Ivy Jane, Jan Barboglio and It Jeans. The Brown Bag is a restaurant located adjacent to Buffalo Girls that features soups, salads and sandwiches.

San Felipe Springs is a set of 10 springs that constitute a major underground source of water for Del Rio and Laughlin Air Force Base with the springs being the fourth largest network in Texas.

These springs produce about 90 million gallons of fresh water each day, which fosters Del Rio’s ability to support new residents and businesses. The importance of these springs to Del Rio’s livelihood is nothing new as they have been Del Rio’s primary source of fresh water for consumption and crop irrigation since the area was first settled. The springs are also home to a unique species of fish called the San Felipe gambusia.

Rough Riders Fans of exciting, full-contact sports descend upon Del Rio each year to attend the George Paul Memorial Bull Riding Event. The event derives its name from the legendary bull rider George Paul, a native of Del Rio who holds the world record for riding 79 bulls consecutively and who won the National Finals Bull Riding Average at the 1968 RCA World Championship. This event showcases the thrilling action of professional riders holding on for dear life to bucking bulls that can weigh more than 1,800 pounds. This annual rodeo celebrated its 35th year of competition in April. For more information, visit www.georgepaulmemorialbullriding.com.

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n Del Rio typically welcomes scores of “winter visitors” each December.

Many of these winter residents have treated the city as their second home for years, escaping harsh northern winters.

A Place to Cool Off Del Rio’s local waterways provide oases during the warmer summer days. These watery playgrounds include San Felipe Creek and Lake Amistad. San Felipe Creek is a waterway fed by the San Felipe Springs. This creek extends nine miles and carries an average of 50 million to 90 million gallons of water through downtown Del Rio each day, eventually depositing the water directly into the Rio Grande River. This creek is a popular spot for fishing and swimming. More information can be found at www.cityofdelrio. com. Lake Amistad is located 12 miles northwest of Del Rio and covers an area of about 65,000 acres with a maximum depth of 217 feet. The lake’s abundant size and stocked fishing reserves make it the perfect place for boating, swimming and fishing. Find more information at www.nps.gov/amis.

n Amtrak’s Sunset Limited route between Louisiana and California serves the Del Rio area, and National Park Service guides from the Amistad National Recreation Area board the train to educate passengers about the area’s natural and cultural heritage as part of the Trails & Rails program.

Del Rio At A Glance population Del Rio: 36,000 • Val Verde County: 48,879

BEGINNINGS Del Rio’s original name was San Felipe del Rio until 1883, when the first post office was established and the name was shortened.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Del Rio Chamber of Commerce 1915 Veterans Blvd.

Del Rio, TX 78840 (830) 775-3551 www.drchamber.com

What’s Online Check out photo galleries and videos of Del Rio at livability.com/del-rio/tx.

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LOCATION Del Rio is located 153 miles west of San Antonio and 156 miles south of San Angelo.

s co Pe

Fast Facts

Juno 163

Pumpville

VA L V E R D E 277

377

Rio Grande

Comstock Amistad Res.

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Del Rio

Del Rio

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277

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From the first RV …

Del Tex RV’s goal is to keep you on the trail to your destination.

Live the adventure that makes America so great!

Serving Val Verde County and surrounding areas for over 33 years.

DEL TEX RV

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and Auto Repair Service 4220 Hwy. 90 W. • Del Rio, TX 78840 (830) 775-9715 Visit our online store at: www.deltexrv.com Everything you need for your RV can be found in our RV Store including a kitchen sink.

Continuing the quality standards of excellence and customer service set by our founder, Jack Plyler in 1979.

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An Artistic Culture Del Rio is home to several artistic outlets. A hub of arts in the community, The Del Rio Council for the Arts at the Firehouse Gallery is housed in the former building of the original firehouse, city hall and jail. There is now a dance studio, an art gallery and a pottery studio. For more, go to delrioarts.com. El Comité del Pueblo’s Casa De La Cultura is an organization that uses arts to enrich the lives of area youth by fostering self-esteem and cultural appreciation.

Lee Bunch Studio Gallery is an art gallery that showcases paintings created with various media including watercolors, oils and pastels. See the paintings at www.leebunchstudiogallery.com.

First Friday Art Walk gives fans a chance to meet with area artists and tour local art centers including the Firehouse and Lee Bunch Galleries as well as the Casa De La Cultura.

Business is Up in Uptown Uptown Del Rio is enjoying a flurry of activity along Veterans Boulevard thanks to new restaurants and retail stores. These businesses include Fuddruckers, Marshalls, Kirkland’s and Applebee’s.

Fuddruckers, a Texas-born fast casual dinning concept, has brought its signature hamburgers to Del Rio with its new location being the only Fuddruckers restaurant within 50 miles of the city. Marshalls’ new location in the Plaza Del Sol mall brings Del Rio fashion at affordable prices. Kirkland’s brings Del Rio a home décor supercenter that carries decorations for every part of the home from kitchen cabinets to lawn furnishings. Applebee’s offers Del Rio residents a casual dining experience with a variety of delicacies on the menu including steaks, sandwiches and salads. In addition to these businesses, Uptown Del Rio also houses new hotels, which promise to draw tourism into the area. Shoppers will find many more stores inside the Plaza del Sol Mall, including Foot Locker, The Children’s Place and Hibbett Sports.

Biking Through the Parks When the weather is warm and sunny, Del Rio has two parks that offer the perfect places to enjoy picnics, time on a playground, swimming or bicycling. These parks are Moore Park and San Felipe Lions Park, and they are joined by the Mayor Dora Alcala Hike and Bike Trail.

This asphalt trail winds along the banks of San Felipe Creek, and its width accommodates both hikers and bicyclers. The trail is named in honor of Dora Alcala, the first female mayor of Del Rio and a believer in the power of San Felipe’s natural beauty to foster economic development. The trail builds on Alcala’s vision by showcasing the natural beauty of the San Felipe Creek to hikers and cyclists who pass along the creek’s scenic banks.

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Reel Fun,

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Real Relaxation Fishing, birding, water sports, history and more make Del Rio a great place to visit

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Story By Laura Hill | Photography By Brian McCord

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ome people say Del Rio is for the birds – bird-watching, that is. Others will tell you it’s for the fish. Or the ancient art.

Whatever they like most about Del Rio, visitors agree: This is a destination that offers a vast number of ways to enjoy your leisure time.

“It’s a very diverse community, with a variety of things to do,” says Donna Langford of the city’s Convention and Visitors Bureau. “You can relax and do as much or as little as you please.”

Lake Amistad for Outdoor-lovers Del Rio’s year-round tourist season lures visitors from around the world, and is especially popular with winter tourists fleeing snowier regions and summer vacationers. Perhaps the area’s most famous attraction is Lake Amistad, straddling the U.S.-Mexican border, whose 854-mile shoreline is longer than the Texas Gulf Coast. The lake is known internationally as a rich fishing area, particularly for bass of several varieties.

Clockwise from top left: Whitehead Memorial Museum; Diablo East section of Lake Amistad National Recreation Area; Birding at Laguna de Plata Bird Watching Sanctuary

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Fishing at sunset on the Devils River

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The Whitehead Memorial Museum comprises nine different buildings, each featuring an array of artifacts and period pieces that assist in preserving and honoring the history of Del Rio and Val Verde County.

“The lake is just a gorgeous area,” Langford says.

“Families love to come here and stay at local campgrounds by the lake where they can fish and enjoy water sports like skiing, diving and boating.”

The area boasts nine campgrounds and three places where visitors can rent condo trailers, cabins and even houseboats. Del Rio also offers 1,500 reasonably priced rooms at 13 hotels, five by the lake, and the Indian Head Ranch bed-and-breakfast, overlooking the lake, which also offers exotic game hunting.

Del Rio for Birding, History, Art and Wine Now, about those birds. Del Rio is perfectly placed along the migration routes used by feathered flyers, making it a paradise for bird-watchers, who can spot terns, riparian birds, aquatic birds, desert and grassland birds, king fish and warblers. The Amistad National Park Service offers monthly birding tours of the park.

History is a large part of the area’s charm, from ancient American Indian petroglyphs in Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site and the White Shaman Preserve to the Whitehead Memorial Museum on South Main Street, where Judge Roy Bean – “the law west of the Pecos” – is buried. The area’s

rich Mexican-American heritage is celebrated at Casa de la Cultura, which hosts events and classes.

Val Verde Winery, the oldest bonded winery in Texas, is the place for tastings, tours and occasional musical events. And art-lovers enjoy monthly art walks to explore the city’s galleries.

Del Rio Conveniently Located Getting to Del Rio is easy. The city is a quick drive 150 miles west of San Antonio and south of San Angelo. It’s served by Amtrak’s Sunset Limited. Del Rio International Airport, with twice-daily United Airlines flights, and the city’s three rental car agencies help make air travel easy.

“We recently finished a nearly $2 million renovation of our terminal,” says airport manager Billie Jo Grafton. “It’s absolutely unique, and it suits the Del Rio environment – very West Texas, with warm tones that make it comfortable.”

The terminal’s new seating, convenient layout, efficient customs and security, free parking, and quick accessibility from anywhere in Del Rio have made it popular with travelers.

“It’s like being in an easy chair at home versus walking through the mall on Saturday,” Grafton says.

“People love it.” l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d e l- r i o/ t x

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For All the

Right Reasons Residents list positives of living here

Story By Kevin Litwin Photography By Brian Mccord

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el Rio has a lot going for it. There is a diverse and friendly population, great weather and beautiful Lake Amistad. Plus Del Rio is poised for economic growth, with increased efforts in place to attract more business and industry to the community.

Never Wanted to Leave One resident who arrived in the city in 1968 and never departed is Donna Langford, director of the Del Rio Convention and Visitors Bureau. Langford and her husband, Bill, moved from Abilene to Del

Rio in 1968 so that Bill could begin teaching automotive technology at the brand new high school.

“We got involved in our church, our young daughter’s school, my husband’s school, and we made a lot of friends,” Langford says. “We never wanted to leave.”

Langford eventually worked for the school district and then owned a hair salon, and for the past 15 years has been with the Del Rio Convention and Visitors Bureau.

“Bill and I raised two children who are successful, which speaks highly of the education system,” she says. “I have been happy in

Del Rio for nearly 45 years.”

Col. Tom Murphy also knows about the positive aspects of Del Rio. The Massachusetts native arrived in Del Rio in 1989 to undergo pilot training at Laughlin Air Force Base, and eventually became assistant flight commander through August 1994. After being assigned to several different states after that, Murphy returned to Laughlin AFB in July 2010 and today is commander of the 47th Flying Training Wing.

“The great thing about returning to Del Rio in 2010 was seeing some of the same faces I

Donna and Bill Langford relax with their dogs on the patio of their home on Lake Amistad.

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knew when I was here in the early 1990s,” Murphy says. “Guys like Lonnie Ricks, who owned Ricks Furniture where I bought furniture for my first home. It is now Ashley Furniture, and Lonnie is still there.”

Regarding activities and recreation, Murphy says his wife, Carla, enjoys shopping and the city’s restaurants, while the couple’s son, Tommy, plays varsity baseball for Del Rio High School.

“I like going to Roosevelt Park to

watch Tommy, and hang around with all the other parents,” he says.

“People are really friendly in Del Rio. I notice it often.”

Home in Del Rio A Del Rio native who left for college and then returned to the city is Al Arreola Jr. He is a 2000 graduate of San Felipe Del Rio and attended Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi, and in 2010 was appointed executive director of the

Del Rio Chamber of Commerce.

“I know there are many like me who want to come back home to Del Rio, so as we look to the future, we need to make sure our economic growth can offer opportunities for all our generations,” Arreola says. “There is a saying: ‘I’m not from Texas, but got here as soon as I could.’ Well I’m from Texas, but I’m especially blessed that I’m home in Del Rio.”

Top left: Donna and Bill Langford’s home on Lake Amistad Bottom left: Col. Tom Murphy and Chief Master Sgt. Ray DeVite donate to the 2012 Air Force Assistance Fund. Above: Baseball game at Roosevelt Park

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Boom town

Lake Amistad and the Amistad National Recreation area are located northwest of Del Rio in Val Verde County.

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Business

Water and workforce are two amenities fueling Del Rio’s continued growth

Story By Joe Morris

T

he intersection of revitalization and growth is a good place to be, and that’s where Del Rio finds itself these days.

The city is benefiting from construction in every quarter.

Whether it’s new roadwork or other infrastructure renovation, new businesses coming in or entire areas being revitalized and renewed, Del Rio is on the move.

And thanks to a well-educated workforce, plenty of natural resources and a pro-business attitude, there’s plenty more where all this is coming from.

“We have a lot to offer, and people continue to realize that,” says Al Arreola Jr., executive director of the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce. “We are well positioned to capitalize on the major projects both here and all around us.”

Photo Courtesy of National Park Service

Roads Lead the Way Multiple road projects are helping to infill areas of Del Rio that needed transportation improvements, and also are providing opportunities for new businesses and residential areas.

Veterans Boulevard, the city’s main thoroughfare, has been repaved and upgraded, as have Bedell and

Dodson avenues. These improvements are being anchored by new hotel growth and expansions in the city’s growing health-care sector.

Ports to Plains Del Rio is also avidly watching the developments being spurred on by the Ports To Plains Alliance, which is advocating for a major highway thoroughfare from the seaports of Mexico up through the United States and eventually to seaports in Canada. As planned, it would run directly through Del Rio, Arreola says.

State Loop 79/Laughlin Air Force Base On a smaller but no less important scale, Del Rio saw the opening of the new State Loop 79 roadway, which encompasses the entire city and connects the lakeside toward Laughlin Air Force Base. And speaking of Laughlin, it was declared the busiest airfield in the United States in 2011, and Del Rio continues to benefit from the myriad activities there.

“They are as healthy as ever, and so the base’s contributions to us continue,” Arreola says. “We continue to benefit from their employees, who shop and live here, l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d e l- r i o/ t x

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Making Your Stay Feel More Like Home

Del Rio’s Own Corporate Housing Professionals Since 2005

s Location out Through the City

All Del Rio locations include furnishings, linens, cable TV, wireless Internet, washers and dryers.

For More Information, Call (800) 258-3959 www.capritemporaryhousing.com Del Rio Chamber of Commerce

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Del Rio

Flexible Leases for All Travelers’ Needs!

San Felipe Springs/Acuna Partnership Underlying it all is the San Felipe Springs, a source of water that is literally centuries from being tapped out.

“We know that we have that sustainable resource for a long time, and having a stable water supply has been key to our business and residential growth,” Arreola says. “It is the literal groundwork that consistently helps us bring in new development.”

Now add in a 40-year, ongoing relationship with Acuna, Del Rio’s neighbor across the Mexican border. That partnership has not only led to significant industrial development between the two municipalities, but also for shared economic growth that will only continue with the major developments to come.

“The Ports to Plains project, and the many other things happening, are really going to be a way for Del Rio to capitalize on all that it has to offer,” Arreola says. “All these things are in line with what we’ve been doing for years, even decades, so we are definitely going to benefit.”

The new State Loop 79 roadway is now open in Del Rio.

photos by Brian M c Cord

and by also providing goods and services to the base itself as much as possible.”

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Business

Biz Briefs del rio’s nightlife scene contributes to the city’s thriving economic climate and makes it easy to find a little fun.

Scorecard Business At A Glance

$513 million Annual Retail Sales

$14,197 Retail Sales per Capita

$58 million Annual Hotel and Food Sales

3,235 Total number of firms Source: U.S. Census QuickFacts

Doc Holliday’s Biz: Dance hall and restaurant Buzz: Doc Holliday’s, which re-opened in Del Rio in April 2012, offers music, food and nightlife. An indoor dining room and an outdoor patio provide space for eating and socializing, and an area for playing pool and darts is available. Doc Holliday’s also offers a late-night menu that features items such as pizza by the slice.

(612) 850-5619 24

Del Rio

Veranda Beer and Wine Garden Biz: Wine bar Buzz: Owned by wine connoisseurs Mark and DJ Goddard, Veranda Beer and Wine Garden provides more than 30 red and white wines, as well as approximately 20 varieties of beer.

Light appetizers and desserts such as cheesecake and chocolate strawberries are also offered. In addition to an indoor sitting area, guests can enjoy a tropical garden complete with a waterfall and stream. www.verandawineandbeergarden.com Chaparral Night Club Biz: Night club and bar Buzz: Open since 2011, Chaparral Night Club offers music, dancing and a variety of special events such as Girls Night Out and holiday parties. Guests can also take in live entertainment; past performers include Grupo Duelo and the Josh Peek Band. Chaparral Night Club is open from Wednesday through Saturday from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m. www.chaparralnightclubdelrio.com White Horse Lounge Biz: Restaurant and bar Buzz: White Horse Lounge, located inside Ramada Del Rio, features a stocked bar and a menu that includes appetizers, burgers, Mexican food, steaks and other items. Customers can enjoy the lounge’s big screen televisions, SIRIUS radio, outdoor cigar patio and more. White Horse Lounge is open daily until 2 a.m., opening at 4 p.m. on weekdays and noon on weekends. www.ramadainndelrio.com Club Arriba Biz: Night club and bar Buzz: Club Arriba offers high-energy music and drink specials, as well as contests and special events. The club also gives back to the Del Rio community and has worked with organizations such as the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Early Childhood Intervention and The Children’s Shelter. Club Arriba is open from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m. Wednesday through Saturday. www.clubarribadelrio.com

Lone Star Self-Storage Office Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sat. 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Controlled-Access Gate Fenced • Lighted Surveillance Cameras 2604 Veterans Blvd. • Del Rio, TX 78840 • Fax: (830) 774-3267

(830) 774-2397 www.storagedelrio.com l i va b i l i t y. c o m / d e l- r i o/ t x

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Business

Chamber Report Chamber backs a Doin’ Right campaign

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el Rio has a lot going for it such as hard-working people, solid businesses, great weather and more.

And now, expanding on those positives, the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce and several businesses and organizations are supporting a Del Rio Doin’ Right campaign.

“This is a community project

to bring more positive emphasis on Del Rio, to better recognize what a fine city we have, and what nice people live here,” says Al Arreola, Del Rio Chamber of Commerce executive director.

“We have a lot to appreciate in this city, and a lot to offer.”

Arreola says Del Rio residents are already creating a better city.

“Every day in our community, there are people contributing their time, energy and efforts into making this a better place to live and work, and that’s what this feel-good campaign is all about,” he says. “The campaign motto is, ‘No task is too small or too large,’ and its purpose is to get more of our residents involved in activities that will make Del Rio even stronger and more attractive.”

Wooden Tokens

LaughLin heritage Foundation MuseuM Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-12 p.m. • 1 p.m.-4 p.m.

Call for group appointments 309 S. Main • Del Rio, TX (830) 719-9380 http://sites.google.com/site/ laughlinheritagefoundationinc/

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Arreola says when a resident sees someone Doin’ Right, they should hand that person a Doin’ Right token which can be found at local businesses and at the Del Rio Chamber office.

“When a token is given to a deserving person, be sure to start a conversation with that person to explain the campaign, and ask the person to pass on the token whenever they see someone else Doin’ Right,” he says. “The token could be presented for a Del Rio beautification project, a fundraiser for a good cause, picking up trash, good customer service, volunteer work, or being a good neighbor. Any act – small, large or somewhere in between – deserves to be recognized and encouraged.”

Tell the World Arreola adds that if someone sees a person Doin’ Right, tell the world by contacting the chamber through social media.

“Stories of Del Rio Doin’ Right will set the example for others to follow,” he says. “The chamber has embarked upon an intense promotional campaign by branding Del Rio Doin’ Right on all of our communications and events. Branding irons, stamps, T-shirts, magnets and signs are a constant reminder to catch Del Rio Doin’ Right.”

– Kevin Litwin

economic profile Economic overview Tourism contributes greatly to the local economy since the region is a tourist destination for winter Texans, birders and sport fishermen.

major Employers Federal Agencies 1,955 employees San Felipe Del Rio CISD 1,567 employees Laughlin Air Force Base (civilian employees) 1,455 employees Laughlin Air Force Base (military personnel) 1,327 employees Val Verde Regional Medical Center 500 employees City of Del Rio 485 employees Wal-Mart Supercenter 473 employees Plaza del Sol Mall 445 employees H.E.B. Grocery 256 employees Val Verde County 206 employees

income

workforce

$14,429

31,638

Per Capita Income

Total Workforce

$40,240

77%

Average Annual Household Expenditure

TRANSPORTATION

White-Collar Jobs

23%

Blue-Collar Jobs

Del Rio International Airport 1104 W. 10th St. Del Rio, TX 78840 (830) 774-8538 www.cityofdelrio.com

Education

Union Pacific Railroad Co. 100 N. Main St. Del Rio, TX 78840 (830) 775-9865 www.up.com

Government Offices

Amtrak 100 N. Main St. Del Rio, TX 78840 www.amtrak.com Transportation Department 100 Ogden Del Rio, TX 78840 (830) 703-5324 www.cityofdelrio.com

Del Rio City Manager 109 W. Broadway St. (830) 774-8558

Del Rio Mayor Office 109 W. Broadway St. (830) 774-8558 www.cityofdelrio.com Del Rio Municipal Court 109 W. Broadway St. (830) 774-8506 Federal Bureau-Investigation 111 E. Broadway St. (830) 775-0076 www.fbi.gov

Angie Farhat, President 2200 Veterans Blvd. • Del Rio, TX 78840 Val Verde County 830-778-BOOT • 830-775-8026 fax

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See the City

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Cormorants perch in the lake near Lake Amistad National Recreation Area.

Photo by Brian McCord

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See the City

Casa de Vino – a wine store, bar and restaurant – features a variety of wines.

Photo by Brian McCord

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Cactus flower in Diablo East at Lake Amistad National Recreation Area Photo by Brian McCord

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See the City

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Brian Day does a backflip into San Felipe Creek, which flows through Del Rio. Photo by Brian McCord

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Health & Wellness

A Lifetime of Quality Care Top-notch hospital, assisted living facility serve the community

S

ince 1959, Del Rio residents have received care from Val Verde Regional Medical Center, and it’s still going strong.

As the only full-service acute care hospital in the county, Val Verde Regional Medical Center is a critical health-care resource for the area. The facility provides more than 90 beds, a level IV trauma center, a full-service imaging center, an intensive care unit and much more.

Forging a Partnership with Methodist Healthcare The name Methodist in South Texas is synonymous with highquality health care. In 2010,

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VVRMC entered into a management agreement with Methodist Healthcare System in San Antonio.

Through this agreement, VVRMC is able to tap into the rich resources available to them to help enhance quality and further develop clinical areas so that there is more depth and breadth to the services offered locally.

Constantly Growing Attracting the best doctors to Del Rio is a top priority. In recent years, VVRMC has been successful in expanding orthopedics, nephrology and cardiovascular specialties. The hospital has also opened a weekend urgent care clinic that will help alleviate the

stresses placed on the emergency department and help to more appropriately triage those patients who need quick in-andout care when their doctor’s office is usually closed.

A Top 10 Employer VVRMC is vital to the local economy. It is one of the top 10 employers in the county, with more than 400 employees. Nearly 40 of those employees have more than 25 years of service. The medical center is a great place to work, as evidenced by strong employee engagement scores year after year. The hospital fosters a spirit of teamwork and has a culture that supports a

For more insight on Del Rio’s health and wellness offerings, head to livability.com/del-rio/tx.

photos by Brian M c Cord

What’s Online

From left: Val Verde Regional Medical Center; a bedroom and living room in a private suite at Country Place Living

healthy work environment.

Assisted Living Del Rio also offers assisted living at Country Place Living, which accommodates mature adults age 75 and older, and provides an intimate, comfortable environment.

The facility comprises 3,600 square feet and includes eight bedrooms with attached bathrooms. Residents are served three nutritious meals daily and can enjoy amenities such as free wireless Internet and cable television, an outdoor patio, landscaped grounds and more.

An additional assisted living facility is in the planning stages and is scheduled to open in the area in the future.

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Local Flavor

Flavorful Fare, Lakeside Views Restaurants Along Del Rio’s Lake Amistad Offer Tasty Dining Options

T

hree restaurants located along Del Rio’s Lake Amistad offer diners a mix of enticing food, beverages, casual dining atmospheres and lakeside views.

Icon Bar and Grill Part of the four-season Amistad Lake Resort, Icon Bar and Grill is the place to go for excellent food and views of the water. Open every day at 5 p.m., the Icon features a variety of delicious menu items such as classic mild or spicy wings, hand-battered steak or chicken tenders, burgers, salads,

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Del Rio

enchiladas and more. House specialties include the Famous Corona chicken, Byron’s fish tacos and the fried fish basket. Available seven nights a week, rib-eye steak was recently added to Icon’s everchanging menu. Icon also features nightly dinner specials like Saturday’s prime rib offering, which is quickly becoming a customer favorite.

After dinner, be sure to watch your favorite team on one of the large TVs located in the Icon’s full bar, or listen to music in the outdoor patio area, where live music can be heard during one of

the special events held at Icon every year.

Casa De Vino Originally opened four years ago as a retail wine shop, Casa De Vino has since expanded into a casual dining restaurant that serves mouthwatering food Wednesday through Saturday.

Customers can relax in Casa De Vino’s comfortable atmosphere while enjoying impeccable service and some of the restaurant’s house specialties like the certified Angus beef 16-ounce rib-eye steak or Annie’s special quail.

As its name strongly suggests, Casa De Vino is also the place to find your favorite wine as the restaurant features over 3,000 varieties of wine from around the world. Casa De Vino is open from 3 p.m. to 12 a.m., Tuesday through Saturday.

Lorina’s Cantina is a familyoperated establishment offering beer, wine, mixed drinks and food specials. Sit outside and enjoy a lakeside view on Lorina’s covered outdoor patio. Lorina’s also features five big-screen TVs, darts, pool, a 2012 live golf machine, and karaoke on Wednesday and Saturday nights.

Be sure to stop by Lorina’s on Wednesday for steak night and order the special 10-ounce rib-eye with baked potato, salad, beans, roll and chili toreados for just $15.00. Lorina’s is open daily from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m.

– Barbara Biehler

photos by Brian M c Cord

Lorina’s Cantina

Left: Icon Bar and Grill’s Corona chicken is served atop a bed of rice pilaf.

Above: Casa de Vino is a wine store, wine bar and restaurant.

World’s Greatest Hamburgers & Fudds Favorites

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Arts & Culture

Feast Your Eyes Del Rio art scene is beautiful to behold

T

he eyes have it in the scenic and inspiring city of Del Rio, where several artists have paintings, sculpture, pottery, jewelry and photography showcased at various studios and galleries. Here are some examples:

programs for children and adults that include ballet folklórico, ceramics, computers, drawing, literacy, painting, piñata-making and rondalla. More than 40,000 people participate annually in the Casa’s programs.

El Comite Cultural del Pueblo’s Casa de la Cultura

First Friday ArtWalk

Del Rio and sister city Ciudad Acuña, México, straddle the border and share common Hispanic culture, and helping to preserve those traditions is El Comité Cultural del Pueblo’s Casa de la Cultura, located on Cantu Street in Del Rio. Besides art pieces, the Casa hosts educational

An estimated 5,000 people participate each month in the First Friday ArtWalk, which occurs in several galleries throughout downtown Del Rio. The walk is sponsored by The HeART of Del Rio, an association of galleries with diverse clientele. Each event runs from 7-9 p.m., and many of the participating galleries have live bands and food.

Clockwise from top: Murals decorate buildings across the street from Casa de la Cultura; Pam Bunch paints at the Lee Bunch Studio Gallery in downtown Del Rio; The White Shaman Site features rock art dating back over 4,000 years.

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Del Rio

photos by Brian M c Cord

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39

visit our

advertisers Amistad Manufactured Homes www.manufacturedhomesdelrio.com Buffalo Wings & Rings www.buffalowingsandrings.com Camino Del Rey Apartments www.caminodelreyapartments.com Capri Temporary Housing www.capritemporaryhousing.com Chaparral/Sugar & Spice Country Place Living www.countryplaceliving.com Del Tex RV & Auto Repair Center www.deltexrv.com Edwards-Graham Insurance Agency www.edwardsgraham.com Falcon Insurance Services Inc. www.falconins.com Fuddruckers www.fuddruckers.com Gateway Apartments/ Oakwood Apartments Lake Amistad Marina www.lakeamistadrealty.com Laughlin Heritage Foundation Museum Inc. www.sites.google.com/site/ laughlinheritagefoundationinc/

GATEWAY APARTMENTS OAKWOOD APARTMENTS

Lee Bunch Studio Gallery www.leebunchstudiogallery.com Lone Star Self Storage www.storagedelrio.com Plaza Del Sol www.plazadelsolmall.com Ram Country Chrysler Dodge www.ramcountry.com Ramada www.ramadainndelrio.com Rio Bravo Cancer & Blood P.A. Ron Castle Photography www.roncastlephotos.com Sam’s Boot Corral Southwest Texas Junior College www.swtjc.edu Texas Community Bank www.tx-communitybank.com

DEL RIO, TEXAS • (830) 298-2860 When you want to enjoy life to the fullest, in a place that’s planned for comfort and ease – select Gateway or Oakwood Apartments – homes for living in a country-like atmosphere just minutes away from Laughlin AFB, Cd. Acuna, Mexico and beautiful Lake Amistad. With special features that make life more relaxing and entertaining, and more fun like swimming pools, well-equipped kitchen, on-site laundry facilities, on-site security and security gate.

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Del Rio

The Bank & Trust www.thebankandtrust.com The City of Del Rio www.cityofdelrio.com The Little Schoolhouse www.delriolittleschoolhouse.com The Seed www.theseedschool.com Val Verde Regional Medical Center www.vvrmc.org

Lee Bunch Studio Gallery Local artist and Del Rio resident Pam Bunch showcases her own work along with that of others in her shop called Lee Bunch Studio Gallery, located on the second floor of one of Del Rio’s historic buildings – Del Rio Loan Company on West Greenwood Street. The gallery displays southwestern works of a dozen local and regional artists.

Rock Art Del Rio has been receiving national attention for its ancient rock art, which dates back as far as 4,000 years. The hundreds of rock art sites in the Del Rio area have attracted archeologists from around the world and are being studied at the Shumla School Inc., a nonprofit archeological research and education center in nearby Comstock. The oldest rock art is called Pecos River style and contains images of human-like forms, animals and all kinds of enigmatic imagery. Rock art panels are sometimes 100 feet long and 20 feet tall, produced by native peoples.

The Firehouse A gathering spot for visual arts and education – and other forms of the arts – is fittingly called Del Rio Council for the Arts, or more commonly The Firehouse. The name comes from its two-story, brick-red 1922 edifice – Del Rio’s first city hall, fire station, police department and jail – that has housed the arts organization in the city’s downtown since 1977.

The Firehouse hosts up to 18 art exhibitions annually and offers an array of art classes.

– Kevin Litwin

Above: Brothers learn to work with clay at Casa de la Cultura.

These fine people don’t look like a group of battle hardened troops. But take a closer look. When it comes to fighting cancer, this bunch is made up of Del Rio’s most battle-tested foot soldiers. As a team of cancer treatment professionals with decades of experience, Dr. Susan Taylor and her staff wage war every day … for every patient … every time.

Remember that, when you find yourself in the fight of your life.

This is what we do. We’ve got your back.

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

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Sports & Recreation

What’s Online

Leaning Pines Golf Course is situated on Laughlin Air Force Base.

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Del Rio

Antony Boshier

Read more about getting out and active in Del Rio by visiting livability.com/del-rio/tx. Click “Things To Do,” then “Outdoors.”

Beautiful on the Outside Del Rio has multiple outdoor recreation options

A

hh, fresh air. Del Rio has a variety of outdoor recreational activities, and most of them draw upon the city’s natural beauty. Here are some examples:

Festivals, Family Entertainment Del Rio shares a historical kinship with Acuña, Mexico, which is why Del Rio celebrates many Mexican holidays in Brown Plaza.

Another event location is Val Verde County Fairgrounds, home to the George Paul Memorial Bull Riding SuperBull – the largest bull-riding event in America.

Hunting and Guided Adventures

Parks Improvements Del Rio has some parks and facilities that recently received renovations including Carranza Park and Onslow Park that both upgraded their pavilions and bathrooms, and installed new playground equipment. The 14th Street Park also has new playground equipment as well as a skate park. Buena Vista Pool received renovations to its pavilion and bathrooms, and Moore Park Pool added a new pool floor and various other improvements.

Upscale Recreation Offerings Val Verde Winery is the oldest

continuously running winery in Texas with a wide selection of wines that includes its Don Luis Tawny Port, which has won medals across the country. This winery welcomes the public as it offers complimentary tours and tastings. For golfers, San Felipe Country Club is a nine-hole golf course that also has a swimming pool, tennis courts and an on-site restaurant, while Leaning Pines Golf Course is a nine-hole venue managed by the United States Air Force Services Agency.

Water Recreation Lake Amistad covers 67,000 acres and is stocked with fish ranging from largemouth bass to Mexican tetra. San Felipe Creek is perfect for swimming, cooking out or relaxing along its shores, and Del Rio also has Horseshoe Park swimming hole and San Felipe Springs, a group of natural springs extending along San Felipe Creek.

– Braxton Shoop

Brian M c Cord

Lake Amistad Guide Service provides fishing and hunting packages as well as tours of the area around Lake Amistad. Devils River Outfitters has canoe and kayak rentals, shuttle services, gear, and guided fishing trips along the Devils River. Martin

Ranch Management features hunting accommodations including a bunkhouse and cabin, hunting blinds, and access to a five-square-mile hunting area.

Provost Adventures offers turkey and white tail deer hunting on 30,000 acres.

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Education

Smart Moves Local colleges offer multiple choices

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wo convenient college campuses in Del Rio deserve gold stars for providing quality education and getting students workforce ready.

The Southwest Texas Junior College campus in Del Rio accommodates more than 1,200 students, while Sul Ross State University Rio Grande College offers students bachelor’s degrees in nearly a dozen fields.

Here is a little background:

Southwest Texas Junior College, Del Rio The SWTJC Del Rio campus is on Wildcat Drive in the northwest portion of the city. The junior college was recently ranked among the top 120 community colleges in the nation by the nonprofit Aspen Institute. The Del Rio site offers degree and certificate programs in a total of 24 fields. Those fields include a variety of workforce training curriculums such as air conditioning and refrigeration technology, auto body repair, cosmetology, heavy equipment operation, law enforcement, nurse’s aide, welding and wildlife management.

Other academic fields for students to study include business, child development, computer information systems, criminal justice, engineering, homeland security and teaching.

Sul Ross State University Rio Grande College Sul Ross State University Rio Grande College not only allows students to earn bachelor’s

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degrees, but also master’s degrees in education and business administration. The campus offers a combination of small class sizes, an appreciation of both fine arts and the sciences, and popular professional programs in a relaxed, friendly environment.

Students have the opportunity to use computer laboratories, learning centers and an auditorium.

Sul Ross State University, which is a member of the Texas State University System, has a main campus in Alpine, plus three satellite campuses in Del Rio, Eagle Pass and Uvalde that combined make up Rio Grande College. Class sizes are small to guarantee higher levels of personal attention from instructors and the university’s support staff.

Sul Ross State also offers students plenty to do in their free time such as several student clubs and organizations along with a strong athletic tradition.

Camino Del Rey A p A r t m e n t s

San Felipe Del Rio Consolidated Independent School District The San Felipe Del Rio Consolidated Independent School District provides education to elementary, middle and high school students. There are 13 schools in the district – nine elementary schools, two middle schools, Del Rio Freshman School and Del Rio High School, which has about 3,000 students. The high school has a program – Project Lead the Way – that allows students to take courses aimed at helping them become problem solvers. It’s one of many programs designed to help develop the local manufacturing workforce, which extends into Mexico.

– Kevin Litwin

All apartments at Camino Del Rey are priced according to location and size. We pay water, trash and basic cable bills. You pay rent and electricity only. All apartments are all electric, have central heating and cooling, tile throughout, mini-blinds, white range, refrigerator and dishwasher.

Unfurnished: 1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms Furnished: Corporate Apartments & Military Clause Two Swimming Pools Six-Month and One-Year Leases Available On-Site Management On-Call Maintenance – 24-Hours a Day

Office Hours: Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Left: SWTJC Del Rio campus; Right: SWTJC Del Rio Student Government

111 King’s Way • Del Rio, TX 78840 • (830) 775-8445 info@caminodelreyapartments.com www.caminodelreyapartments.com

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Auto

If you care about it, we can insure it.

Home Mobile Home Motorcycle Boat

Edwards-Graham Insurance Agency

Since 1906

Commercial Life Health 1906 Veterans Blvd.

Del Rio, TX 78840 (830) 775-2411 www.edwardsgraham.com

THE LITTLE SCHOOLHOUSE Established 1973

Pre-school through Eighth Grade

Half-Day Educational Program with Christian Values Preschool & Pre-K: 2-5 Years Visit our website for more information.

(830) 778-2444 www.theseedschool.com

605 Amistad Blvd. • Del Rio, TX 78840 (830) 775-2756 www.delriolittleschoolhouse.com

Lee-Bunch Studio Gallery

Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Saturday 1-5:30 p.m.

Fine Art | Pottery | Custom Matting and Framing Custom-Made Jewelry | Gift Items | Hand-Turned Wood

LLC.

Lic.# RBI 35751 We buy, sell, or trade singles and double wides –new or used!

(830) 774-3456

100 W. Greenwood | Del Rio, TX 78840 Located above Del Rio Loan Company www.leebunchstudiogallery.com

MORE THAN JUST WINGS

Amistad Manufactured Homes

GREAT FOOD, NO BULL

TRANSPORT • RELEVELS • TIE DOWNS • SKIRTING 5375 W. U.S. Hwy. 90 • Del Rio, TX 78840 • (830) 774-4300

www.manufacturedhomesdelrio.com

Falcon Insurance Services Inc. Auto • Home • CommerCiAl • BoAt rV • moBile Home Theresa Murray Agent/Owner

3600 Veterans Blvd.

Del Rio, TX 78840 830.778.1297 830.778.1239 fax

Daily Dine-in Specials: Monday – Kids Eat Free Tuesday – $.59 Wings Wednesday – $.99 Tenders

Call for your quote today!

1203 e. Gibbs St. Del rio, tX 78840 (830) 775-5900 Fax: (830) 775-9240

www.falconins.com

Your Source for Sports, Including All UFC Events

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Del Rio

community profile overview Located in the central border region of Texas, Del Rio is an oasis with San Felipe Springs flowing 150 million gallons of water per day through creeks and canals. Water and a temperate climate make Del Rio a recreational mecca.

Household Information

38,000 Total Population

(830) 775-3551 www.drchamber.com City of Del Rio 109 W. Broadway (830) 774-8558 www.cityofdelrio.com

33

Utility Billing Department 109 W. Broadway (830) 774-8550 www.cityofdelrio.com

96

58%

40°

42%

City of Del Rio Police Department 101 Lowe Drive (830) 774-8718 www.cityofdelrio.com

19”

33%

climate

°

July Average High

January Average Low

Annual Rain Fall

cost of living

$35,673

Median Resident Age

Married

Single

Age 19 and Under

42%

Age 20-54

25%

Median Household Income

Age 55 and Over

$40,390

54%

Median Home Price

$596

White

1%

Natural Gas Department 201 E. Del La Rose St. (830) 774-8650 (830) 774-8622 (after hours) www.cityofdelrio.com City of Del Rio Police Department 101 Lowe Drive (830) 774-8718 www.cityofdelrio.com Drivers License Division 2012 Veterans Blvd.

(830) 775-2367 Val Verde County Voter Registration (830) 774-7529 www.valverdecounty.org

44%

The City of Del Rio Recycling Collection Station/Landfill 1897 Railway Avenue (830) 703-5320

time zone

Hispanic

Central

1%

Val Verde County Library 300 Spring Street (830) 774-7595

Numbers to know

What’s Online

Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment

Black

Other

transportation

14 minutes

Median Travel Time to Work

Del Rio Chamber of Commerce 1915 Veterans Blvd.

For more stories on the people, places and events that define Del Rio, visit livability.com/del-rio/tx.

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Through the Lens

Get the Story Behind the Photo Now that you’ve experienced Del Rio through our photos, see it through the eyes of our photographers. Visit throughthelensjci.com to view our exclusive photographers’ blog documenting what all went in to capturing those perfect moments.

From Our Photo Blog: Del Rio Julio T. Garcia launched his business, Julio’s Chips, from the garage of his Del Rio home in 1995, but now his chips and products can be found on store shelves throughout a wide region of Texas – and the operation is expanding.

Besides making chips, Julio operates a full-service Mexican restaurant with his wife, Lillia. The eatery is known for its homemade tortillas and fresh salsas.

The business is located on Highway 90 near Laughlin Air Force Base.

Posted by Jeff Adkins

More Online See more favorite photos and read the stories behind the shots at throughthelensjci.com.

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Ad Index

46 Amistad Manufactured Homes

40 Gateway Apartments/ Oakwood Apartments

46 Buffalo Wings & Rings

C4 Lake Amistad Marina

45 Camino Del Rey Apartments

26 Laughlin Heritage Foundation Museum Inc.

22 Capri Temporary Housing

46 Lee Bunch Studio Gallery

25 Lone Star Self Storage

22 Chaparral/Sugar & Spice

35 Country Place Living

5 Plaza Del Sol

40 Ram Country Chrysler Dodge C3 Ramada

8 Del Tex RV & Auto Repair Center

46 Edwards-Graham Insurance Agency

46 Falcon Insurance Services Inc.

37 Fuddruckers

41 Rio Bravo Cancer & Blood P.A. 46 Ron Castle Photography

Ad Index (cont.)

27 Sam’s Boot Corral

25 Southwest Texas Junior College

8 Texas Community Bank 23 The Bank & Trust 2 The City of Del Rio

46 The Little Schoolhouse

46 The Seed

C2 Val Verde Regional Medical Center

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Del Rio

DEL RIO’S PREMIER FULL-SERVICE HOTEL

If you have been with us before, you know the history and mystique that is Ramada – Del Rio. For over 30 years, people have been experiencing the hospitality and hotel development of this legendary hotel that now features: 183 beautiful suites, mini-suites and executive guest rooms nestled around our scenic center courtyard graced by tropical palms, bananas trees and lush flower beds.

People continually appreciate our ongoing improvements of facilities and technology now offering a new, state-of-the-art 3,000-square-foot conference center and free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and conference center.

Ramada – Del Rio is home to one of the hottest night spots for sports and entertainment: The White Horse Lounge.

Try the great American and Ethnic cuisine of the Summerfield’s restaurant offering delicious meals and appetizers until late night hours.

Expect a warm welcome at the Ramada – Del Rio, our personal touch is what sets us apart. Our staff is committed to making your stay exceptional in all aspects: be it one of our service or support members, event planners, or management team we strive to get to know you in hopes that when you do leave, we have earned a new and respected friend.

For a day of relaxing or as a break enjoy our palm-shaded outdoor pool with cabana hot tub, sun and lounging decks.

Try one of our three Jacuzzis or indoor pool, three saunas, or two fitness centers.

Enjoy our outdoor jogging/fitness track and youth playground that complement our facilities for your ultimate relaxation and enjoyment.

Whether you’re looking to plan a corporate meeting, retreat or simply escaping the stress of business; or wanting to just relax … fishing the best bass lake in the US; or planning the perfect wedding, family or class reunion, we provide the perfect setting for a truly memorable visit.

Remember: You do your thing … leave the rest to us.® 2101 Veterans Blvd. • Del Rio (830) 775-1511 • (830) 768-0481 fax www.ramadainndelrio.com

Amenities & Services

Amenities & Services

• Free Wi-Fi in all guest & conference rooms • Radio-alarm clock • Complimentary coffee/tea maker & supplies • Iron & full-sized ironing board • 37” flat-screen LCD TV • Refrigerator • Microwave oven • Speaker phone with modem port • Hair dryer & makeup mirror at vanity area • Tub/shower combination • Front desk staffed 24/7 to serve you • RamadaMart ® features assorted foods, drinks, sundries, etc. available 24/7

Summerfield’s Restaurant • Open at 6 a.m. daily

• Fresh breakfast buffet offering cooked-to- order omelets, waffles, American and authentic local ethnic specialties • À la carte menu available all meal periods • Dinner specialties also: 5-10 p.m. nightly • Room service coincides with Summerfield’s hours

The White Horse Lounge • Open daily until 2 a.m.

• Happy hour specials nightly • Free appetizers & snacks nightly • HDTVs with surround sound • Full menu available nightly until 12 midnight, Friday & Saturday until 2 a.m.

Room Entertainment

• 70 plus cable channels including: HBO1 & HBO2, three ESPNs, six Spanish Channels

Business Travelers Appreciated Amenities • Multiple electrical outlets at desk • Task lighting at desk • Free high-speed Wi-Fi in your guest room • Speakerphone with modem port • Voice mail • In-room safes (most rooms) • Safe deposit boxes available • Two laundry facilities on-site for guests • Valet laundry & dry cleaner service

Free Services & Amenities

• Free, fresh-cooked breakfast buffet for government employee & Wyndham Rewards members • Free morning paper for Wyndham Rewards members • Free shuttle from & to KDRT (Del Rio International Airport) • Free local telephone • Free parking • Free easy access boat parking & charging locations