Del Rio Grande 0716

BIG LIFE IN A TEXAS BORDER TOWN

rande

JULY 2016 $2.99

HOT STUFF coming through in fashion

QUINCE ESSENTIAL party planning

Refreshing cocktails for SUMMER SIPPING

Grape expectations Texas’ oldest bonded winery has deep roots to Italy

We would like to thank the families of Del Rio and Val Verde County for truly making us a part of your family during your time of need. It has been a privelege to have served Del Rio for more than 11 years.

- Ricky Robles

FUNERAL HOME • CEMETERY • MONUMENTS

Proudly serving Del Rio, Brackettville, and New Braunfels

www.sunsetfuneralhomes.com

Del Rio’s Residential Curbside Recycling Service Collection map is located on the City’s website at http://www.cityofdelrio.com or http://www.rrws.com

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830-775-2715 delrio@rrws.com ||| www.rrwastesolutions.com/servicearea/del-rio.php www.rrws.com 830-774-3040 830-774-3040 830-774-3040| |landfill@cityofdelrio.com | landfill@cityofdelrio.com landfill@cityofdelrio.com www.rrwastesolutions.com/servicearea/del-rio.php | www.rrwastesolutions.com/servicearea/del-rio.php

830-774-3040 | landfill@cityofdelrio.com | www.rrwastesolutions.com/servicearea/del-rio.php

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CONTENTS 10 Under the Texas Sun Val Verde Winery is a family affair with deep roots to Italy

18 Summer Sips Bartenders serve up refreshing cocktails

22 Slice of Summer Refreshing salad makes the most of the season’s bounty

JULY 2016

32 Closet Confessions Local politician reveals what’s hiding in her closet

34 Hot Stuff Step out in style this summer

38 Fifteen & Fabulous Planning the perfect quince

44 Save the Date July events and happenings

46 Casting Call Resort popular among fishermen

48 Staying Afloat Boating safety tips

50 Say what?

Readers share their summer plans

24 Sporty Chic Hot sportswear to keep you cool

ON THE COVER: Marissa Magana on the grounds of the Val Verde Winery, 100 Qualia Drive, with one of the winery’s signature red wines in a souvenir glass. Magana is the owner and instructor of Amistad Active, offering classes in yoga, sailing and horseback riding, as well as selling active wear and vitamins. For information, visit www.amistadactive.com or call 830-703-9642. Photo by Karen Gleason.

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ckle o Best Taon In Del Ri Selecti

For A Great Time On The Lake...Visit Us!

Amistad Marine

Texas & Mexico Fishing License

Sunday 8-5

Monday 7-5

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Closed 7-5 7-5

Friday 7-7

Saturday 6-6

Closed For Lunch From 12-1

7348 West US 90 • Del Rio, Tx 78840 • (830) 775-0878

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LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

M

y family and I arrived here a few months ago, and I probably don’t need to tell you that it is remarkably easy to fall in love with Del Rio, Texas. The powerfully massive Lake Amistad, the beautiful clear waters of San Felipe Springs and even the gorgeous view out my backdoor of the Sleeping Lady mountain range in Mexico are mesmerizing.

However, it is the people and unique elements of Del Rio that make it so easy to quickly call home. My family and I have met folks who we already refer to as close friends and are, along with the rest of Del Rio, addicted to Julio’s chips. The people here are just so genuinely happy that I honestly can’t picture some of the folks we’ve met without smiles on their faces.

When I asked my team to define Del Rio with one word, I was given a long list of interests such as fashion, food and, of course, the border and lake. One word stuck out even more than most — passion. It is truly the passion of Del Rioans that brings this area to life.

We envision Grande taking you on a journey of some of the proudest offerings along our border. In its pages, you’ll discover new things to do, places to see and things to taste for the first time. Most of all, you’ll learn of the passion behind the things and people you may already know and those you’ll be surely seeking out really soon. Who knows? Maybe, I’ll see you there.

David Compton Grande Publisher

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La Hacienda Meat Market to

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Spanish Classes Available! Call Today!

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GRANDE / JULY 2016

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BIG LIFE IN A TEXAS BORDER TOWN

rande PUBLISHER David W. Compton

Family Steakhouse

2 NEW Steak Specials Big Sky Sirloin 16 oz sirloin with baked potato & Texas Toast!

$13.99 Limited Time Offer

Sizzling Sirloin 8 oz center cut sirloin, baked potato & Texas Toast.

Includes salad bar & bakery!

$9.49 All Day Long Now Reduced Buffet Prices!

GRANDE / JULY 2016

WRITERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS Karen Gleason Chris Adams Brian Argabright Bonita Santillan Joseph Treviño

ADVERTISING Sandra Castillo Brittany Jones Ashley Lopez

EDITORIAL jamie.bridges@delrionewsherald.com 830-225-1551, Ext. 300

ADVERTISING sandra.castillo@delrionewsherald.com 830-775-1551, Ext. 250

STORY IDEAS jamie.bridges@delrionewsherald.com

Del Rio Grande is published by the Del Rio News-Herald.

No portion may be reproduced in while or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without written permission of the publisher. Editorial content does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher of this magazine. Editorial and advertising does not constitute advice but is considered informative.

2015 Veterans Boulevard Del Rio, Tx (830) 774-0411 8

EDITOR Jamie L. Bridges

2205 North Bedell Avenue • Del Rio, TX 78840 delrionewsherald.com

COURTESY PHOTO/THINKSTOCK

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

The splendor of summer

W

elcome to our second edition of Del Rio Grande magazine.

Although this is the second time we’ve printed these pages, this is my first as editor. Our theme for this July publication is summer days in the Rio Grande Valley. And how you, our readers, spend your time in the scorching heat of our grand city.

“Summertime This issue features a story on the Val Verde is always the Winery and its owners, as well as its usual fashionistas photo spread. Our staff writers best of what also bring you some of our favorite summer might be.” drinks and food. We also feature quincenearas and how to prepare for that special day for – Charles Bowden the 15-year-old in your family.

As editor, I hope to bring you many new ideas that you can use in your daily lives, as well as revisiting some old ones. Our purpose is to serve you, and I’ll take all the suggestions you have to offer as well.

Summer represents the best of times. Having fun playing in the local youth softball league to road trips to places far from the comfort of home. This is the right time to sit back and enjoy the sunshine and what our town has to offer for summer enjoyment.

I welcome your feedback at jamie.bridges@delrionewsherald.com.

Have an incredible summer!

Thanks for reading!

Jamie L. Bridges

2205 Veterans Blvd/Hwy 277N Del Rio, Texas 78840 www.plazadelsolmall.com

For Information 830.774.3634 713.952.0366 OWNED & MANAGED BY LEVCOR, INC.

JCPENNEY • BEALLS • ROSS • MARSHALLS • CINEMARK

Grande Editor

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UNDER THE TEXAS SUN Val Verde Winery is a family affair with deep roots to Italy STORY AND PHOTOS BY KAREN GLEASON

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Wine grapes ripen under the Texas sun. When Italian immigrant Frank Qualia arrived in the area of the present-day winery in the 1880s, he found Lenoir grapes growing wild in the fertile soils of the San Felipe Creek valley. Qualia established the Val Verde Winery in 1883.

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SURROUNDED BY STATELY PECAN TREES more than a century old, with summer sunlight pouring golden over rows of grapevines and olive trees, the Val Verde Winery seems ageless, timeless, eternal.

No wonder, then, that this place struck a chord in the heart of Italian immigrant Francesco Quaglia, a chord that resonated even more deeply when he saw vineyards flourishing under the bright Texas sun.

Quaglia immigrated to North America from his home in northwestern Italy about 1880, according to a biography published in “The Spirit of Val Verde,” a book of local history published in 1985 on the occasion of Val Verde County’s 100th anniversary.

Francesco Quaglia’s name can still be read on the certificate he was required to carry when he left Italy, a certificate that has pride of place on one of the winery’s walls.

Quaglia changed the spelling of his surname to “Qualia,” the “g” being silent anyway, and his first name was shortened and anglicized and became “Frank.”

Qualia first went to Mexico with several fellow Italian immigrants, eventually traveling to San Antonio.

“It was there that they heard of the abundant water and virgin soil around San Felipe Del Rio,” the “Spirit of Val Verde” biography of Frank Qualia reads, and notes that one of the Italian immigrants with whom he was traveling was sent ahead to scout out the promised land of milk and honey.

Thomas Qualia, Frank’s grandson and the current owner of the winery, said Frank Qualia immediately saw the land’s potential when he found Lenoir grapes being cultivated in the fertile soils of the San Felipe Creek valley. Frank leased a tract of land from Dõna Paula Losoya Taylor Rivera, who owned large tracts of land in present-day south Del Rio and who was one of the driving forces behind the establishment of Del Rio as a legitimate community.

“When he saw vineyards here, he knew they must have a Mediterranean-type climate, similar to the one in their homeland,” Thomas Qualia said.

The land on which Qualia began cultivating the Lenoir grape, a black Spanish grape native to the Madeira Islands, remains part of the present-day winery.

One of Frank Qualia’s sons, Dr. Charles Qualia, a linguistics scholar and professor emeritus at Texas Tech University, wrote of his father and the other adventurers from Italy, “These men developed their irrigated gardens in the European fashion, and their home places became things of beauty which added both wealth and attractiveness to the town of Del Rio.” The Qualias set down deep roots in the burgeoning community of Del Rio, contributing business people, elected and civic leaders. Over the years, the winery and its grounds became a showplace, not only of the area’s picture postcard beauty, but also of its rich agricultural heritage.

FAMILY BUSINESS: Thomas Qualia, left, is the third generation Qualia to own and operate the Val Verde Winery founded by his grandfather Frank Qualia. Michael Qualia, right, Thomas’ son, is now helping manage the winery and wine-making operations at the historic Del Rio vineyard.

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But the Qualias didn’t concentrate all their efforts on the winery.

Thomas Qualia said his father, Louis Qualia, another of Frank Qualia’s sons, started ranching in Mexico in 1920, in days when the political boundary between the two countries was so porous it was practically non-existent. Louis Qualia began his ranching efforts with 1,200 head of registered Rambouillet ewes and saw great success as a wool producer.

Thomas said family members encouraged him as a young man to study agriculture “because I knew I was going to go into ranching in Mexico.” Thomas Qualia eventually earned a degree in animal science and worked with his father for many years, dividing his time between the ranch and the winery.

“My father would put in three or four days in Mexico at the ranch, and two or three days here at the winery, and he had a full-time employee here, and the family helped run the sales room, that was how it worked,” Thomas Qualia said. “One day, and, like I said, I was helping him on the weekends and whenever he’d call and ask for some extra help, he just said to me, ‘Son, I’m going to give you the winery.’ I wasn’t planning on that at all.”

Thomas Qualia formally became the owner of the winery in 1973.

The winery was still a small operation in those days, selling all of its wine from the winery headquarters at 100 Qualia Drive.

“We were the only winery in the state of Texas until 1976, when other wineries opened, and there was no other grape production per se in Texas at that time,” Thomas Qualia said.

In those days, the winery produced four wines from the Herbemont grape and the Lenoir grapes, the winery’s foundation black Spanish grapes, a sweet red and a dry red and a sweet white and a dry white.

As other wineries began opening across the state, Qualia helped found the Texas Grape Growers Association, which eventually became the Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association.

Thomas Qualia admitted that the skyrocketing public interest in wine over the past two decades caught him off-guard.

“It took me by surprise,” he said, “I never dreamed of it being that way.”

He said he was even more surprised when Wine En-

thusiast magazine last year listed the Texas Hill Country on its top 10 list of the world’s great wine regions.

Qualia said he began buying grapes from some of those Hill Country vineyards when they began producing grapes 25 years ago.

With the addition of grapes from other Texas vineyards, production of wines at the Val Verde Winery has increased, and last year, about 3,000 cases of wine were bottled here. Thomas Qualia said the winery annually produces between 2,500 to 3,000 cases of wine, depending on the availability of fruit.

But even here, at Texas’ oldest bonded winery, new ideas are fermenting, new ideas fruiting.

It’s not that Michael Qualia, one of the fourth generation of Qualias to work at the winery, wants to upend more than 132 years of tradition — he wouldn’t even think about it — but changes are coming.

UNCORKED: (Left) A basket of wine bottle corks is among several wine- and wine-making souvenirs that greet visitors to the Val Verde Winery. Visitors can also pick up a bottle or a case of their favorite wine or a set of stemmed wine glasses engraved with the winery’s logo. (Right) One of Del Rio’s most-photographed sites is the oak barrel sign at the entrance to the Val Verde Winery, 100 Qualia Drive.

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DEEP ROOTS One of the oldest grapevines still producing at the Val Verde Winery is this Herbemont vine, planted by Louis Qualia, the youngest son of the winery’s founder and the second of four generations of the family in the Texas wine and grape industry.

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Michael Qualia is now helping to oversee winemaking at the winery, while his sister Maureen Qualia is a professor at Texas Tech University, where she teaches the art and science of wine making and also serves as a consultant to the winery.

“We’re real excited that the fourth generation is here. We’ve worked real hard to make the winery what it is today, and it’s good to know that there’s another generation that’s going to carry on what my wife and I have labored over for so many years, as well as the work of my father and my grandfather, who started the winery,” Thomas Qualia said.

Putting more of the day-to-day operations into Michael’s able hands also allows Thomas Qualia to concentrate on a new love: the making of olive oil.

A brochure available to winery visitors hints at the elder Qualia’s passion.

“In 2007, Mr. (Thomas) Qualia transformed his dreams into reality when he bought and planted 250 Arbequnia Olive trees for the production of olive oil. The following year, another 250 trees were planted. Finally, the process began. A few years later, the first vintage of olive oil was bottled and released,” the brochure reads.

Thomas Qualia said the first olive oil produced was entered in a statewide competition for artisanal olive oils, and when his olive oil placed third, he was off and running.

The high-quality olive oil is bottled under the label “Quaglia Orchards Olive Oil,” a bow to Frank Qualia’s journey and vision.

One of the biggest changes Michael Qualia has made is the times during which the winery is open for visitors. The winery’s new hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Michael said he wanted to give working people more of an opportunity to visit the winery and sample the palette of outstanding wines produced by his family.

He also is planning some changes to the area in which visitors sample the wines and said he wants to make this area more spacious and inviting.

Michael Qualia also seems proud and pleased to carry on his family’s long tradition of wine making, but perhaps the winery’s own brochure says it best: “The winery’s survival and prosperity is a testament to its past and an inspiration for its future.” 

Salute!

Val Verde Winery Tasting Guide

White/Blush/Red – Dry to Sweet 2015 VIOGNIER - $15 This un-oaked crisp white wine has well balanced fruit, acid and tannin. Peach, pear and apricot dominate the nose of this unfiltered wine to create an example of classic Viognier.

This is a special limited vintage using grapes from Highcross Vineyards, between Del Rio, Texas, and Sonora, Texas.

SIERRA MADRE DRY WHITE - $15 This flavorful blend includes Herbemont, Viognier and Muscat grapes. The combination of these three un-oaked wines provides fruity aromatics and flavors. It has a sharp but warm finish that begs to be paired with fresh seafood, pasta or soft cheese.

2015 MUSCAT CANELLI - $12 True to its character, this wine provides an elegant perfume of roses, lemon and honey. It has notes of ripe pineapple, peach and sweet candied grapefruit with a long, full finish. This Muscat Canelli would be an elegant partner for fruit and sharp cheeses or as a replacement for dessert. Something salty or spicy also balances the flavors nicely.

2015 ROSÉ - $12 A blend of Ruby Cabernet and Muscat Canelli, this salmon-pink floral wine is reminiscent of sweet rosewater. It is said to be as sweet as honey with a refreshingly clean lemongrass finish.

Our Rosé would be a wonderful complement to fresh fruit, sharp cheeses and buttery crackers.

SWEET RED - $9 A young wine brought back from the early 1900s, this wine is a fruity blend with hints of strawberry and cherries. Although this wine is sweet, it serves as an excellent table wine and is very versatile. It will pair nicely with any southern, home-cooked meal.

Reds – Light to Full Bodied 2015 SANGIOVESE - $16 Typical red ruby in hue, the bouquet includes aromas of strawberry, plum, violets and iris.

The flavor is dry, reminiscent of leather or tobacco, with a surprisingly smooth finish. This Sangiovese pairs well with Italian food, such as pasta with a red sauce.

The combination of Merlot, 32 percent; Tempranillo, 50 percent; and Sangiovese, 18 percent; lends itself to be the perfect blend of Tres Vinos. This medium-bodied, dry red wine has a rich flavor of oak and pepper and bursts with aromas of dark cherries and spices.

2014 LENOIR - $16

2015 TEMPRANILLO - $16 This is a medium-bodied Tempranillo with a lovely ruby color and fruity notes such as black cherries and plum on the nose. The soft tannins and savory, smooth finish makes for a very versatile wine. It can be paired with all kinds of food to include cured meats with aged cheese and roasted vegetables.

SWIRL, SNIFF AND SIP: Visitors are able to enjoy a variety of Val Verde Winery’s signature products at the winery cellar, 100 Qualia Drive. Pictured, from left, a ruby-red, medium-bodied 2015 Tempranillo; a crisp, classic 2015 Viognier; and an elegant 2015 Muscat Canelli.

2015 SIERRA MADRE - $17

Lenoir, otherwise known as Black Spanish, is said to improve in taste when the bottle is left uncorked or strongly aerated by decanting. The aroma of the wine is largely black currant and cherry with a somewhat spicy finish.

BLEND #15 DON LUIS TAWNY PORT - $40 A unique blend of Lenoir, this special port has a buttery, nutty caramel flavor with hints of chocolate at the edges. Also ideal after a nice meal, the Tawny Port is complemented by dark chocolate or cigar smoking.

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STORY AND PHOTOS BY BRIAN ARGABRIGHT

SUMMER SIPS Refreshing cocktails to help keep your cool

S

ometimes the best way to beat the heat is a nice refreshing adult beverage, but truth is not all summer beverages are created equal.

Everyone has their own unique tastes.

Some people are beer people. Some people are mixed drink people. Some people are cider people. And some people are happy to imbibe on whatever is handy and affordable.

I asked bartenders what the words “summer beverage” meant to them. The consensus was it had to be cold, it had to be refreshing and it had to be something that helped the troubles of the day just melt away.

So with that in mind, I set out to find just what kind of summer beverages were out there for the discerning adult palates in Del Rio. I enlisted the aid of my dear friend Kim Dupill and off we went.

MANUEL’S MASTER OF MIXOLOGY The first stop on the quest was Manuel’s Steakhouse. After all, Manuel’s has consistently been ranked as one of the top three places in Del Rio to get the best margarita,

PERFECT POUR: Manuel’s Steakhouse bartender Beto Melendez pours out his original concoction he calls Naked in the Rain. While he wouldn’t divulge the drink’s ingredients, it carries a hint of several fruit flavors such as coconut rum and orange liquor.

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SHAKEN AND STIRRED: (Clockwise from right) Named for the clay bowl it’s served in, the cazuela at Manuel’s Steakhouse packs four different kinds of liquor and fresh fruit into a refreshing summer beverage. The cucumber martini at Manuel’s Steakhouse uses fresh slices of the vegetable to give a crisp and refreshing flavor to the classic drink. The Chile on the rim helps to balance out the sweetness of the liquor. The Black Betty at Lorena’s Cantina hides the alcohol flavor but provides a cool escape from the Texas heat. The original margarita at Manuel’s Steakhouse is popular among Del Rioans and has earned the restaurant a spot among the city’s best in the annual Del Rio News-Herald’s Best of Del Rio Readers Poll.

and it’s the classic drink with the Latino name that topped the list of drinks that most folks mentioned when thinking of summer beverages.

At Manuel’s, the margarita comes in several different flavors, but it’s the original I was after. Served as cold as possible, and with salt lining the rim of the glass, the drink was refreshing didn’t taste like something rushed out the door. The fresh ingredients were evident from the first sip to the final slurp.

Then came the mango margarita. An unmistakable orange color heralded the arrival of this beverage complete with a heaping helping of chamoy that spilled over the rim. There was also a sprinkling of chili powder that added a nice little contrast to the drink.

“This is quite refreshing,” Dupill said. “There’s lots of flavor in it. It’s sweet, but not overpowering.”

I headed to the bar and found bartender Beto Melendez meticulously putting the final touches on some mixed drinks headed out to the floor. If anyone could explain summer beverages, it would be he.

Melendez said he’d been working as a bartender at Manuel’s since Janu-

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ary but his work resembled that of a longtime veteran of the bar scene.

When I asked about summer beverages, he immediately mentioned the cucumber martini. In my world, cucumber is reserved for salad, so I eyed the idea of drinking something with cucumber with trepidation.

Those fears soon were put to rest.

Mixing vodka, tequila, sugar, lime juice and fresh cucumber creates a taste that immediately cools you down. Add to that a little Chile on the rim, designed to take away the sweetness of the other ingredients, and you have one of the most refreshing drinks I’ve had in some time.

But if you’re looking for a definitive summer beverage, look no further than the cazuela.

Served in a small clay bowl, from where the beverage gets its name, this mixture of tequila, vodka, Everclear, rum and lime juice atop ice quenches even the angriest thirst. Add orange wedges and limes and this drink for two leaves you with images of the beach and the smell of saltwater from the crashing waves.

“This is so good,” Dupill exclaimed.

Lorena’s Cantina bartender Taylore Manriquez puts the ingredients of the Black Betty through a shaker before pouring it into a tall glass to serve to thirsty patrons.

THE LURE OF LORENA’S Down U.S. Highway 90 West, Lorena’s Cantina is a place more known for steak nights and karaoke than for its beverages.

That’s a shame, because people are missing out.

Taylore Manriquez has been a bartender there for about six years and understands the ins and outs of summer beverages.

“When it comes to beer, during the regular seasons, we sell a lot of Bud Light and Coors Light and things like that. But in the summer, the imports are more popular, especially Dos Equis,” Manriquez said.

“As for mixed drinks, every year is different. There’s always some new thing people want to try.”

Immediately she served us a Bloody Taylor, which she adapted from the traditional Bloody Mary.

The Bloody Taylor features tequila, olive juice, pepper, Tabasco, fresh lime and fresh lemon juice and chamoy but there are some special ingredients that Manriquez wouldn’t divulge.

After an initial sip, Dupill gave her seal of approval.

“I don’t like these kinds of drinks but this one I like,” she said.

“Definitely a little kick in there.”

I am not a fan of Bloody Marys, so I posed a simple situation for Manriquez to solve.

“I’m a fisherman. I’ve just come in off the lake and I’m hot and frustrated because the fish weren’t biting. What would you serve me to take my mind off everything?” I asked.

Within minutes I had a Black Betty in front of me.

A dark red color, and served with a lime wedge garnish, the Black Betty includes original vodka, lemon vodka, tea and blackberry lemonade served in a tall glass with plenty of ice.

If Crystal Light had an alcohol-based cousin, this would be it. It’s a smooth drink that hides the alcohol until you near the bottom of the glass. It’s truly refreshing.

I had consumed probably a quarter of the drink before I remembered to take a photograph. That’s the true sign of a good beverage — you want to savor it and let it take you away from the problems of the day. 

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SLICE OF SUMMER Refreshing salad makes the most of the season’s bounty

DELICIOUS AND NUTRITIOUS: Watermelon is comprised of 92 percent water and contains electrolytes. Tula’s Watermelon-Arugula Summer Salad is the perfect combination of contrasting flavors.

STORY AND PHOTOS

BY CHRIS ADAMS

A

re you a bit hung over from the spring cookout menu of carne asada, pollo and burgers?

Do you feel laden with protein and artery-clogging fat seeking to perpetrate linear drag on your organism?

Why not offer your body a salubrious reprieve from the red meat assault for the next few months — at least on weekdays?

A healthy and tasty summer salad could be the tonic your body craves and needs.

Tula’s Juicery in South Del Rio is mixing together one that is certain to make your feet feel a little lighter during the heat-infused solstice.

“I chose this salad because watermelon is very much in season for the summer and it’s good to use,” said Dulce Ramon, owner of Tula’s Juicery. “It’s good to give your body seasonal ingredients because our body adjusts with the climate and our environment.”

Ramon said that when nature lights its furnace, our bodies need revitalization.

“When it gets hotter, we need more refreshing and hydrating foods,” she said.

“So, that is why I chose the watermelon, the arugula.”

Ramon said the combination of ingredients delivers a well-balanced flavor.

“I like arugula because it’s a spicy, leafy green,” she said. “Although it sounds very fancy, it’s a nice, simple, crisp leaf. It’s got like a spicy bite to it. It’s really good combined with the watermelon and the feta (cheese).”

At the cellular level, the watermelon

assists in flushing out excess liquid, and the feta cheese and leafy greens supply protein.

The final touch on the salad is mint.

“It’s also very, very refreshing,” Ramon said. “It’s organic mint from my personal garden.”

She indicated that a celebrity chef influenced the nutritious dish.

“Actually, it’s inspired by Ina Garten … who I love and really admire,” Ramon said.

“She’s called ‘Barefoot Contessa.’ She uses very simple, clean ingredients.”

THE DRESSING “The dressing has got a little bit of everything,” Ramon said. “It is orange juice and lemon. So, it’s got your vitamin C; olive oil … it’s really good fat for the body. It helps lubricate our joints.”

Shallots — a cousin to onions and garlic — honey, salt and pepper round out the composition of the dressing.

“The honey gives it a little bit of sweetness that we all crave,” Ramon said. “The olive oil has really good fat in it. So all those clean ingredients provide really good nutrients for our body.”

In other words, the “icing” on the salad offers its recipient a nutritional payload.

“We try to stay to a raw, fresh, balanced nutrition for the body,” Ramon said. 

Tula’s WatermelonArugula Summer Salad INGREDIENTS ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice ¼ cup minced shallots 1 tablespoon honey ½ cup olive oil 1 teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon ground pepper 6 cups baby arugula 1/8 seedless watermelon 12 ounces feta cheese 1 cup whole mint leaves DIRECTIONS Whisk or blend first seven ingredients in the blender for dressing.

Place arugula, watermelon, feta and mint in a bowl and drizzle with dressing until evenly coated.

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Ivanna models a TYR Running Tank and Shorts, Compre Sport Sleeves and Newton Running Tennis Shoes.

Available at TRIstation, 1101 Veterans Blvd., Del Rio.

Sporty Chic Hot sportswear to keep you cool this summer

PHOTOS BY SANDRA CASTILLO

Monika models CINTA yoga pants and tank top. Manduka large yoga mat carrier and restore spray. Available at TRIstation.

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Fernanda models a TYR Maxfit swimsuit and TYR Special OPS USA Model Goggles. Available at TRIstation.

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Nick models a TYR tri tank, TYR tri shorts, Giro helmet, Oakley sunglasses and cycling shoes.

Available at TRIstation.

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MOVIE AT THE MUSEUM

Friday June 24

8:45PM (SUNSET) FREE ADMISSION

H-E-B TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS

SPONSORED BY Meet Texas Ranger

Lee Young Book Signing June 18, 2016

9:00am-12:00pm Lee Young was the first AfricanAmerican to wear the Texas Ranger badge in modern history.

He is a descendant of Black Seminoles who fled to Mexico to protect their freedoms

Seth models a TYR swim jammer and Oakley sunglasses.

Available at TRIstation.

1308 South Main Street Del Rio, Texas 78840 (830) 774-7568 WhiteheadMuseum.org GRANDE / JULY 2016

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CLOSET CONFESSIONS

LAURA ALLEN STORY AND PHOTOS

BY KAREN GLEASON

L

aura Allen has learned to be ready for anything.

And she needs to be.

There’s a lot going in her life — husband, children, pets, a household and her work as one of the county’s leading Republicans.

Allen was elected Val Verde County judge in 2010, the first woman ever elected to a full term in that office.

Before her election as county judge, Allen served a four-year term as the Precinct 3 county commissioner, but she has been active in county politics since 1998.

Even now, as the chair-elect of the Val Verde County Republican Party, she is busy making plans to continue expanding the party’s arc of influence, an uphill battle in the traditionally Democratic Val Verde County.

No matter what she’s doing, whether it’s running a meeting, wrangling three active youngsters, preparing a home-cooked meal for an eclectic group of friends or riding one of her horses on the ranch, Allen always looks good doing it, and she picks outfits appropriate for each occasion.

Allen’s closet isn’t rigorously organized, but she keeps “like with like,” jeans hanging in one section, dressy T-shirts in another, shells, blouses, suits, jackets and dresses in another. Stashed on a shelf above her clothes are boxes of shoes and, of course, a row of

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the requisite cowgirl boots.

One of her go-to outfits is a cardinal red skirt and jacket set she says she wears whenever she needs a confidence booster, although she admits red is not right for every occasion. In a situation requiring a more conservative mien, she turns to darker colors: navy blue, forest green, charcoal gray and black.

“I just love red, though,” she admits. “It says, ‘I’m here, pay attention, I’ve got something to say.’”

Allen and her husband, former Texas Ranger Sgt. John Allen and scion of one of the county’s oldest ranching families, have been married nearly 11 years.

In the midst of her crazy-busy life, Allen also is finding time to raise three young children, to write a history of the Allens, and this month, to take up the reins of the Val Verde County Republican Party.

What’s the oldest item in your closet?

“I guess it’s the diamond ring that belonged to my mother-in-law, Annette Allen.

It’s a custom ring that was made to look like a flower.”

What’s the newest item in your closet?

“A light cover-up you can wear over shorts, jeans, a sweater. I really didn’t intend to buy it, but I was taking my son to San Antonio to have his wisdom teeth worked on, and it was when it was cold and rainy, so I had to go buy a sweater, and I picked this up at Cavender Boot City.”

What’s the most expensive item?

“That would have to be my black Lucchese boots. They are handmade and come with their own little sweaters. I got them at the Ranch at the Rim in San Antonio, and I was just looking to buy something a little bit nicer than all my work boots. My other most expensive is also a pair of shoes: Manolo Blahniks, but they were cheaper than the boots.”

What the biggest bang for your buck?

“That would have to be my Ariat riding boots. And actually they’re riding, hiking, deer hunting, everything boots. I practically live in these things.

What’s an item in your closet that everyone except you hates?

“I really don’t think I have anything like that.”

What was the biggest waste of money?

“Jeans, it would have to be jeans, because I have such a hard time finding jeans that fit me in the waist, but that also fit in the hips and thighs. So I’m constantly buying jeans to find the perfect pair, and I’m constantly getting rid of jeans because they just don’t fit correctly.” 

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Southern Trends loose tank $45 Long hassle necklace with Jade $18

Vintage Havana cotton crochet shorts $36.50

Bamboo gladiator style sandals $21.50

Fashions and accessories available at Buffalo Girls, 440 S. Main St., Del Rio.

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HOT STUFF

Step out in style this summer PHOTOS BY SANDRA CASTILLO

THML black dress with taupe embroidery $72.50

Very Volatile Los Angeles Michelle shoe in taupe $67

Stone beadwork and turquoise necklace with medallion $122.50

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Black and turquoise beaded necklace $25

Bohemian Cowgirl T-shirt $59.95

Let ‘Er Buck Cowgirls Roping Fiesta trucker hat $33

Corral natural python fringe vintage boots $170

Level 99 denim shorts $79.95

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Child Care e! bl Availa

Zumba, Tabata Instructors

Spinning Instructors

Body Building Instructors

Aqua Zumba Instructors

Call 830-422-2989 for membership information or visit us at 2210 Dodson Ave. • Del Rio, TX 78840 www.jointheedge.net

GRANDE / JULY 2016

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FIFTEEN & FABULOUS Planning the perfect quinceanera

S

BY BONITA SANTILLAN

chool is out, and summer has arrived. Blissful memories of sunny days are in the making.

With homework and exams the least of your worries, summer months are the perfect time to plan a quinceanera. This is a memorable time when a Latina turns 15 years old and becomes a lady. The Mexican tradition brings family and friends together on your special day when all eyes are on you. Let’s dive into planning your perfect summer quince.

SELECTING A THEME Picture a setting: your favorite vacation destination, a movie-inspired environment or your favorite decade. The theme is important for determining the colors, the decorations, your dress, the invitations, the food and even the venue. Keep in mind that you want your guests to be able to recognize the theme when they walk into the venue. If you’re having trouble deciding on a theme, here are some suggestions: masquerade, vintage Hollywood or a night in Paris.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION The summer weather allows for limitless possibilities when it comes to choosing a venue. From an outside venue to a venue with a lake view or even indoor venues, all are out for grabs depending on the theme you have chosen. Keep in mind the amount of guests you will be inviting and if there will be a reserved space for the dancing festivities and other traditional agenda items. Parking and advanced deposits also should be taken into consideration.

DECORATING WITH YOUR COLOR SCHEME

COURTESY PHOTO/PIXABAY

Once the theme and venue are decided, decorations and color choices are next on the list. You

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Quince Essentials Planning events can be overwhelming and stressful. The Del Rio area provides resources that will make planning your quinceanera as easy as possible. Here is a list of your most valuable resources: BARTENDER/MIXOLOGIST Escamilla Catering..........................830-719-9807 Ramada Inn.....................................830-775-1511 CATERING Red Fernandez...............................830-765-5703 Pablo Rodriguez.............................830-734-3099 Escamilla Catering..........................830-719-9807 Ramada Inn.....................................830-775-1511 CHOREOGRAPHY Stephanie & Crystal........................830-719-0619 Andrea Valdez................................830-703-0590 Claudia Maldonado........................830-734-5259 DECORATIONS/EVENT PLANNING Happy Balloons..............................830-778-8138 Sugar & Spice.................................830-778-8188 Norma’s Events..............................830-765-3483 Enchanted Events...........................830-313-6631 DJ Reno Luna.......................................830-703-0224 Paul Lomas.....................................830-719-0606 Rowland Garza...............................830-703-0043 Ruben Meza...................................830-313-2430 Sergio Diaz.....................................830-734-8283 Lupe Buenrostro.............................830-719-9555 Sam Lopez......................................830-461-3126 Sonido Lazer...................................830-765-3580 DJ Giggles......................................830-488-2654 EVENT PLANNER Amanda Lea Events........................830-313-6547 GREETER Annabel Escamilla..........................830-775-2232 Debbie Martinez............................818-461-1295 Bertha Perez...................................830-488-3580 LIMO SERVICE Ray Meza........................................830-765-0448 MAKEUP Kiss ‘n Make Up..............................830-734-5259 COURTESY PHOTO/PIXABAY

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MARIACHI Mariachi Diamantes........................830-469-8805 Mariachi Del Rio.............................830-719-0572 Trio Treviño.....................................830-774-6089 Nicolas Chavarria...........................830-775-2894 Mariachi Voces Del Rio...................830-488-4505 MASTER OF CEREMONIES Mary Perez.....................................830-765-3145 Rowland Garza...............................830-703-0043 MOBILE SHAVED ICE Austin Frigid Frog..........................830-313-4945 PHOTO BOOTH AMIT Photo Booth.........................830-469-9970 PHOTOGRAPHY / VIDEOGRAPHY Lucero Trevino................................830-313-4021 Leno Hernandez ............................830-422-6760 Mr. Reyes........................................830-734-4995 Omar Chavez..................................830-719-1557 Smile Snap .....................................830-765-5149 Brandi Nicole..................................830-719-1196 LA Photo........................................830-469-9789

Connect with us at AshleyHomestore.com DEL RIO, TX VETERAN’S BLVD AT TENTH ST 830.775.1508

Family Saturday: 10am-6pm Medicine Sunday: CLOSED

Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Podiatry, Dental, ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat), Obstetrics, Gynecology, Family Planning, Women’s Health, Laboratory, Pharmacy and Radiology.

MAIN STREET CLINIC • 913 S. Main • 774-5534

After Hours available for all clinics #(830) 774-5534

Lee Keenen, D.P.M.

Reno Luna.......................................830-703-0224 Family Medicine UPLIGHTING

y Family ne Medicine Director

Tony Moreno, PA-C Family Medicine

enen, M.

atry

Sergio Diaz.....................................830-734-8283 Gerardo Wendy Y. Pitt, Happy Balloons..............................830-778-8138 Astudillo, M.D.

Tony Moreno, PA-C VENUES

Tony Moreno, PA-C

Family Family Medicine Medicine United Medical Centers (UMC) Asst. provides comprehensive Medical Director medical services that includes:

Martinez, SLIDESHOWS M.D.

Angel ing III, Martinez, .

M.D.

Family Medicine

Aurelio Laing III, M.D.

San Felipe Exes San Felipe Lions Knights of Columbus UCO Elks Lodge Angel Club XL (LAFB)

ly ine

Angel Martinez, M.D.

Gene V. Haverlah, Monday-Friday:M.D. 9am-7pm

PRIVATE MEMBERSHIP HALLS

averlah, D.

EAGLE PASS, TX VETERAN’S BLVD AT ZACATECAS DR 830.757.8800

M.D.

Pediatrics Board Certified

OB/GYN Family Medicine Del Rio Civic Center.......................830-774-8642 Women’s Health

Ramada..........................................830-775-1511 Care Country Club..................................830-775-3953 Gerardo Y. Pitt, Manuel J. Frausto, La Hacienda.Wendy ...................................830-774-7094 Astudillo, M.D. M.D. Santa Carmen.................................830-326-2331 Pediatrics General Practice M.D. Whitehead Museum.......................830-774-7568 Board Certified Board Certified OB/GYN La Villa Bonita.................................830-778-8188 Women’s Health Care VHS TO DVD Reno Luna.......................................830-703-0224

Laura Mireles

Lee Keenen

PA-C Family Medicine

D.P.M. Podiatry

Podiatry Angel Martinez M.D. Family Medicine

BEDELL AVE CLINIC

Is proud to announce and • 2209 Bedell Avenue welcomes

Manuel J. Frausto, M.D.

Palani Mani,

Call for your appointment M.D. or for more information at Practice anyGeneral of the three clinic sites in Del Rio to serve you.

Evening and Saturday Clinics available.

• 775-1272

All Clinics Provide:

Texas Women’s Health Care Palani Mani, General PracticeWebsite : www.umchealth.com Free Pregnancy Testing M.D. Family Planning Clinic Board Certified (M-F 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.)

General Practice

Palani Mani M.D. General Practice

Deborah Thomson PA-C Family Medicine

Daniel Chartrand M.D. OB/GYN Tx Women’s Deborah Thomson, PA-C Health Care Family Medicine

Visit our website at www.umchealth.com

Effective Tuesday, September 3, 2013 • 1117 W. De La Rosa St • 768-4800 SAN FELIPE HEALTH CENTER Call (830) 775-1272 to schedule your appointment Location: Bedell Ave Clinic, 2209 Bedell Ave, Del Rio, TX 78840

Gerardo Astudillo, M.D. OB/GYN Texas Women’s Health Care

James Fowler, M.D., Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist

Anel Delgado RN, FNP-BC Family Medicine

James Fowler, M.D.

Hardev Patel DDS

James Fowler, M.D.

Carlyn Powers

Ear, Nose, RDH and Throat Specialist For a dental appointment, call (830) 774-1700.

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BLING IT ON: By Edward Bridal and Evening Wear at Plaza del Sol Mall displays quinceanera dresses to fit themes and colors desirable to every young lady on their special day.

New dresses are shipped in regularly.

Santa Fe Dreams boutique at Plaza del Sol Mall offers an array of affordable tiaras and rhinestone headbands and jewelry to make you sparkle on your special day.

don’t want to overwhelm your guests with too many colors, so stick to choosing no more than four as your color scheme. Decorations are a vital part of accentuating the theme of your quince. For a masquerade theme, there can be a photo booth for the guests where they choose from a variety of masks to take a picture with. Or if you decide on a Paris theme, a fun way to spice up the invitations would be to decorate them as imitation passports with Paris as their destination. Being creative with the decorations to fit your theme can make a difference on the overall outlook.

PHOTOS BY BONITA SANTILLAN

FINDING THE DRESS OF YOUR DREAMS The most important component of your party is you. You want to look your best when you make your grand entrance and all eyes are on you. When you choose a dress you love, you will feel beautiful and confident. Order your dress with enough time in case it needs to be altered. The summer months are scorching hot in South Texas, so while keeping in mind your theme, color schemes and venue, pick something you will feel comfortable in so you can dance the night away. ď‚Ť

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Save the date July events and happenings SUMMER CONCERT SERIES Every Friday in July and August, the Noches Musicales summer concert series will be presented at 302 Cantu St. It’s a free event with food vendors. Bring your own chair.

CRUZIN MAIN Held every first Saturday until September, Cruzin Main Show N Shine will be held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in downtown Del Rio on South Main Street between Garfield and Losoya.

Admission is free. For information, call 830-774-7568.

READING PROGRAM Val Verde County Library will be hosting its 2016 Summer Reading program, “Race to the Finish Line.”

There will be daily games, crafts and prizes. Pre-K through kindergarten will have story time at 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Firstthrough third-graders will have their story time at 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Tuesdays. Fourth- and fifth-graders will have their story time at 3:30 p.m.

Thursdays. Register online at www1.youseemore.com/ vvcl/. For information, call 830-774-7595 or email rbenavides@valverde county.org.

grounds. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. with the rodeo starting at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the gate and $5 in advance for adults.

Children 17 and younger can enter free. Tickets are available at Del Rio Feed & Supply, C&S Western Wear, Cowboy John’s and Buffalo Girls. Concessions are available on site.

BASEBALL TOURNAMENT Del Rio will host the Babe Ruth East Texas 15-year-old State Baseball Tournament beginning July 1. Teams from throughout the southern and eastern regions will converge on The Bank & Trust Ram Field for a double-elimination tournament and the right to compete at the Southwest Regional tournament in White Hall, Ark. GOLF TOURNAMENT The San Felipe Springs Golf Course will host a Fourth of July Tournament on July 2-3 with a guaranteed first-place purse of $2,000. Teams consist of four people playing select shot (scramble). Also there will be a “Hole in One” contest. The entry fee is $400 per team. For information, call 830-775-3953.

INDEPENDENCE DAY RODEO

MOVIES AT THE MUSEUM: ‘MINIONS’

The Del Rio Rotary Club is sponsoring its annual Independence Day Rodeo on July 1 and July 2 at the Val Verde County Fair-

Movies at the Museum will present “Minions.”

The movie starts at 8 p.m.

July 29 at the Whitehead Memorial Museum.

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GRANDE / JULY 2016

COURTESY PHOTO/THINKSTOCK

Fourth of July celebration Del Rio’s Fourth of July celebration is a scheduled from 2 p.m. to midnight July 3, and from 2 p.m. to midnight July 4, at the Dr. Alfredo Gutierrez Jr. Amphitheater at the San Felipe Creek. Live entertainment, a car show, activities for children, food booths, a 5K run and fireworks are planned. Get into the patriotic spirit by attending the city’s Fourth of July parade at 10 a.m. July 4. The parade will start at Ogden and South Main streets and wind its way down South Main Street to Nicholson Street.

ROBERT PARRISH Administrator

L-R: Gina Rodriguez, Crystal Gutierrez, Laura Aguirre, Maria Padilla, Valerie Patiño

MARY E. PARRISH RN. C., MSN Family Nurse Practitioner

ELIZABETH MOYNIHAN APRN, FNP-C Family Nurse Practitioner

Currently accepting New patients.

Walk-Ins Welcome from 7:30-8:30 AM

Clinic Hours 7:30 Am-8:30 Am Walk-In Acute Care 9:00 Am-11:30 Am By Appointment 1:30 Pm-5:00 Pm By Appointment

GRANDE / JULY 2016

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COURTESY PHOTO/TEXAS HERITAGE REAL ESTATE

REELING ’EM IN: (Right) The Amistad Lake Resort consists of 40 rooms and is popular with sportsmen all year round. (Below) The hotel is currently the domain of former Del Rio resident and professional touring angler Byron Velvick.

CASTING CALL Resort popular among fishermen up for sale

T

STORY AND PHOTO BY CHRIS ADAMS

here are many structures prominently displayed along the highway running to and from Lake Amistad; some in use and some empty, many are new and a few historic.

Amistad Lake Resort, formerly known as Amistad Lodge, seems to fit all of the above. It is “historically new” and can be almost vacant or completely full.

The 40-room hotel, located just off U.S. Highway West, sits on about six acres of prime desert property with an expansive view of Lake Amistad.

In 2005, the resort was completely renovated, which included septic systems, swimming pool, wireless internet and the conversion of the innkeepers quarters into a two-bedroom/two-bathroom apartment.

Ninety percent of the guests are fishermen, hotel manager Esmeralda Montejano said.

The spatial design of the property allows fishermen

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to conveniently back their trucks and boats up to their rooms after a busy day on the lake.

Current owner, Byron Velvick, said it’s basically a scenic, sportsman lodge.

“It draws a lot of fishermen and hunters,” he said. “Of course they’re people that want to stay out there because it’s a pretty area and it’s nice and quiet and it’s safe.”

Velvick, a touring professional angler on the B.A.S.S. Elite Tour and a host/analyst for a variety of ESPN fishing shows, said that at one time the resort had boasted a restaurant and bar but he had to close them due to time constraints.

“I since closed it because I’m not there very often,” he said. “It was hard to run a restaurant and bar not being there and a hotel even. It’s difficult to run it living in San Antonio. My life has changed. I have a 4-year-old daughter, so consequently I’m not in Del Rio nearly like I used to be.”

The resort is currently for sale. 

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GRANDE / JULY 2016

47

STAYING AFLOAT Navigating a safe summer on the water

COURTESY PHOTO/THINKSTOCK

A

mistad National Recreation Area Superintendent Chris Ryan said summer visitors to Lake Amistad and the rest of the Amistad National Recreation Area should use safe

boating practices.

“Preparedness is key,” Ryan said. “Make sure you tell someone where you are going and what time you are planning on coming back. Make sure you have plenty of drinking water. Make sure your

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boat is carrying required safety equipment, such as personal flotation devices, also known as life jackets, for every passenger and a fire extinguisher.

Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, and always keep an eye on the weather.”

“Check the weather forecast before you go out, and if it looks like there’s going to be severe weather, don’t even go out. You really don’t want to get stuck out there in a severe thunderstorm, especially if there is lightning in the area,” he said. 

SAFETY FIRST: Boating season is heating up at Lake Amistad. Keep boating safety a priority this summer.

“Let us be the one you turn to.”

Under New Management Manager Stella Sportsman Texas Owned and Operated

Rates

Single Bed - 1 person- $49.99 +tax Single Bed - 2 persons- $59.95 +tax Double Bed - 3 persons-$69.95 +tax Double Bed - 4 persons-$79.95 +tax Single Weekly $237.00 Double Weekly $316.00 Monthly $850.00

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GRANDE / JULY 2016

49

Say what?

Residents share their plans for the summer EDDIE HERNANDEZ I plan on going to the gym and taking some nice pictures by the lake.

JENNIFER NAVA

JACK CASTILLO

This summer I am going to two family reunions. I am going to fly to Barcelona, Spain to attend my dad’s family reunion.

I plan on exploring the seashores of old Mexico.

GERARDO “JERRY” HERNANDEZ

DELILAH MORALES This summer I plan on traveling to several different parts of Mexico and hopefully work part-time throughout the summer.

Afterward I plan to prepare myself for college and also prepare for everything my future holds!

Work in the Summer Hire Program at Laughlin Air Force Base; tennis, work hard to be in varsity; take care of my lawn; hang out with my girlfriend, Miss Val Verde, Macady McBlain

KAYLAH PEREZ Hang out with friends; go to water/amusement parks; swim; play volleyball/workout; create memories; try things I’ve never done before.

KARLA HOWARD CLAIRE MARKOWITZ MACADY MCBLAIN I will be working on base, going to events in Val Verde County, summer camp, EFY camp and spend time with family and friends.

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Every year is full of things to look forward to, but for me there’s one thing specifically.

My family takes an annual road t rip to San Diego, California. This year may be the last, so I plan to enjoy it like never before. After our two weeks in California, I plan to come back home to get a job and my driver’s license and hopefully be able to spend some quality time with my friends.

KARLA FAZ This summer I plan on working to start saving up for college. I will also be getting everything ready to go off to college in August.

I will be attending Texas A&M International University in Laredo, Texas.

CARMEN SUTTON I am going to Galveston and Vegas, but I will be teaching summer school the majority of the summer.

I will continue my employment at Cowan & Cowan Attorneys at Law as well as visit the courthouse to continue building up my resume for law school. (I hope to become a criminal defense attorney). I will also travel and continue my service in this community and across the border by helping out with a children’s shelter.

I will continue my preparation for the University of Texas at Austin which I will be attending next fall.

RODOLFO N. RODRIGUEZ Hang out with friends; staying active physically and spiritually; motivate my family to eat healthy and stay active; Go on a camping/hiking trip with family and friends; become more organized in preparation for the school year to come; participate in Family Career and Community Leaders of America to promote unity within the school chapter officers; have fun!

INKNOW You could be

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As a lifelong reader of the Del Rio News Herald, I look forward to reading about issues that affect our community. The Del Rio News Herald provides a clear view on local current events. ~Rene Luna

SFDRCISD Public Information Officer, City of Del Rio Councilman

Del Rio Entrusted by the Queen City of the Rio Grande since 1884

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