Discover Jackson County 2023

DISCOVER 2023

Jackson County

Welcome to Jackson County, Texas You should stay awhile

Jackson County Chamber of Commerce

Annual Breakfast with Santa.

2022’s Breakfast with Santa was hosted by The Ranch Cowboy Country Church in Edna. Santa normally arrives via helicopter, but due to bad fog conditions, he rode in on the back of a firetruck.

If you have children and are in Jackson County around the holidays, be sure to stop by this amazing event.

For info about the event please call the Chamber at (361) 782-7146

It is a fun time for all kids from one to 92!

Meet the staff

Michael Brooks is the Editor and General manager of the JCHT. He has worked for the paper since 2016 and was recently promoted. Aside from his dogs, Peeve and Ranger, he loves all things sports and karoake.

Jessica Coleman has been a contributing writer at the paper for several years, and whose photography skills are endless. She hams it up acting in plays at the Rear Window, and is an animal rescuer at heart.

Matt Borrello handles graphic design and ad sales for JCHT. He is a Lay Pastor at The Ranch Cowboy Country Church. A true explorer, he enjoys hiking, camping, and taking spontaneous trips with his wife.

Jazmine Contreras is a staff writer for the paper. Her passion for writing started in junior high and she participated in yearbook in high school. Like every teenager, she likes to sleep for fun.

Andrea Contreras is the JCHT office manager. She is a full-time mom with kids who do extra school curriculars. She bleeds blue and is a die hard Edna Cowboy fan.

117 years going strong

Prior to Nov. 22, 1906, the newspaper serving the needs of Jackson County and Edna was called The Progress. Around 1896 a Mr. Dickson served as the editor, a position he held until he lost his building and equipment to a fire in 1906.

After the fire in 1906, H.K. “Cap” Staples, an Edna native, was approached by several close friends to start a new paper. Staples had been employed as a printer at the Cuero Star.

Staples gathered an old Washington hand press and a “shirttail” full of type, and on Nov. 22, 1906 put out the first edition of The Edna Herald. The first location of the newspaper was reportedly on Wells St. behind what was Faires Drug in the early 1900s. Sometime before 1938 the paper was relocated to 206 Ed Linn Street.

On Jan. 1, 1951 Staples ended his newspaper career by selling the Edna Weekly Herald (as it was then known) to Chester Evans, also a longtime journalist at the Victoria Daily Advocate.

The current owner and publisher of the Jackson County Herald-Tribune took over the reins on May 1, 2005. Jim Moser purchased the paper, and he and his wife, Suzette, made their home in Edna for many years.

Jim and his family now live in Brenham, where he is the head of Moser Community Media, LLC. MCM now manages 32 community newspapers across Texas, and acquires more as time passes.

Lassoing Loving Care for Hospice of South Texas

By Rebecca Reeves Contributing Writer

On March 4, 2023, the 11th annual Lassoing Loving Care Benefit Team Roping will be held at the Brackenridge Main Event Center. This event helps support Hospice of South Texas. More information will be made available closer to the event date.

Last year, at the 10th annual Lassoing Loving Care Benefit Team Roping, there was a silent and live auction, concessions, and roping events. Admission to get into the event was free.

The books for the first roping opened at 8 a.m. and closed at 9 a.m. The actual roping itself started at 9:30 a.m. The books for the second roping closed at 1 p.m. Roping contestants were able to win one prize per roping.

As of right now, there is not a lot of information about the 11th annual Lassoing Loving Care Benefit Team Roping but don’t let that deter you from participating!

Keep a look out for more information closer to March 4, 2023. Information will be posted on the “Hospice of South Texas” Facebook Page as well as the “Brackenridge Main Event Center” Facebook Page.

Red, White, and Bulls

March

The fourth Annual Red, White, and Bulls will be held at the Brackenridge Main Event Center in March of 2023.

Join them for a full evening of action packed with bull riding and concerts by local artists.

Red White and Bulls is a non-profit organization that aims to improve the lives of our veteran and first responder communities. Each year the event hosts many disabled veterans and law enforcement members both locally and from across several states.

With the profits raised, the beneficiaries will be given the opportunity to make a request of their choosing. Some past requests have been: monetary donations to assist in paying off loans, sending them on a dream vacation, purchasing necessary medical equipment etc.

Red, White, and Bulls is an event unlike any of the other military affiliated events in the crossroads area. This is due to the founders all currently serving on active duty status. Each founder has deployed to the theater of combat in both Iraq and Afghanistan. They have felt and seen first hand the effects of war. Their dedication to duty and love of this country is what sparked the idea to raise money for wounded veterans by hosting a bull riding like no other.

Edna has a rich history in the sport of rodeo, and this is the bull riding the town has been waiting for! The top 30 bull riders will match up with some of the rankest bulls in the sport today. Each rider brought back to the short go will also be drawing for and representing each branch of service called The Battle Of The Branches.

Come show your support of our veterans and law enforcement.

The support and love for our military runs through the hearts of everyone in our crossroads area. It is the event’s hope that you can join them in showing our area veterans and wounded warriors that support by attending this exciting event. For more information: please contact Alex Alvarez @ 361-571-2822.

A new coffee shop is coming to town

By Jazmine Conteras Staff Writer

If you’re a coffee lover and are craving it, Jackson County welcomes you with a drive-thru/stay-in coffee shop. B.E.A.R.D.S Coffee shop has been in the making for many years but was officially announced on August 9, 2022.

The location is the small building next to Socha’s Car Wash. Desirey Marie is the founder of B.E.A.R.D.S Coffee and her dream is coming to life with this coffee shop.

“My passion isn’t founded on a love of money, but a love for coffee,” Marie commented.

She was born and raised in Edna and has had a taste for coffee

since she was a little kid.

“The smell of black coffee after church on Sunday doesn’t tempt everyone but even when I was a little girl, I was sneaking some of that precious black coffee at Grandma Wilson’s with my cousins,” Maria mentioned.

Marie came up with the name B.E.A.R.D.S in honor of her all her kids, mother in-law and her husband. She has five kids and four step kids.

The names are Blaike, Emma, Amber, Allisa, Alexis, Ayden, Rudy Robert, Rudy Jr., Desirey, Damian, and Sierra.

“They are the backbone of B.E.A.R.D.S Coffee,” Marie said.

Many of her followers on Facebook have expressed their gratitude for someone finally setting up a local coffee hangout place.

Marie earned her Texas Coffee Shop Certification after completing the program.

She has been giving out sneak peak ideas for her shop menu, many of which are healthy options.

The coffee shop will be filled with smells of coffee, bakery items, and even some breakfast items.

“I definitely have the right pallet for it and love trying new flavors for my coffee,” Marie said.

B.E.A.R.D.S Coffee shop will also offer free WIFI and free fresh brewed coffee for all on duty officers, firefighters and hospital staff members.

Marie didn’t stop with coffee drinks as she will also offer lemonades, lattes, americanos, affogatos, espressos and “dirty” sodas.

“I hope to see this business flourish with years of life and love. I hope to see this town grow in all aspects of one cup of coffee at a time,” Marie concluded.

Due to an abundance of back-ordered product, Marie has not yet been able to open, but she hopes to open soon.

A sneak peek of products and an inside look of the shop.

B.E.A.R.D.S Coffee owner Desirey Marie stands in front of her future coffee shop.

Jackson County Chamber of Commerce

Welcome to Jackson County and all the best that we have to offer! Our county’s hospitality and warm friendly people are only second to the fun, exciting adventures you can find here.

Just a couple hours driving time from Houston, San Antonio, Corpus Christi and Austin, Jackson County’s small town charm appeals to those who want a slower-paced life within reach of the big city.

10,000 acre Lake Texana provides for water recreation, fishing and fun; while the adjacent Brackenridge and Texana parks have campgrounds, RV sites and cabins available to extend your stay. Numerous well-maintained boat ramps are available for visitors to launch their boats for a day of relaxation on the lake and rivers.

The Brackenridge Recreation Complex includes the Main

Event Center, the historic Texana Church, a paintball course, and equestrian trail. Home of the annual Texana Chili Spill, Jackson County Youth Fair, and multiple rodeos, the Main Event Center provides a modern facility for people to gather.

The area is rich with wildlife for hunters, birders, photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. The Chamber’s Best of Texas Big Buck and Big Hog Contest held every fall awards prizes to the biggest trophy and best photos.

In addition to Brackenridge and Texana Parks, Jackson County boasts Bennett Park, Devers Park and Shelby Park along with two children’s parks in Edna for picnics and other outside activities.

Jackson County is home to the Lavaca Bluffs Vineyard and Winery, a popular meeting place

among locals and visitors who want to learn more about the wine-making process or just get away for a few hours and enjoy a wine tasting.

The Rear Window Listening Room in Ganado provides big city musical entertainment in a relaxed environment.

Our state of the art hospital and medical facilities provide quality healthcare for the county. We hope you don’t need to visit them while you are here, but if you do, rest assured you will be in great hands.

A Wellness Center operated by the Jackson County hospital District reflects the district’s commitment to patient health.

The rich soil in Jackson County is valuable to ranchers and farmers alike. From grazing cattle to growing corn, rice cotton or milo, farming Jackson County has served generations

of families who make their livelihood from the earth.

With our rich history, great people, friendly churches, outdoor access, excellent schools and health care, it’s no wonder nearly 15,000 people choose to call Jackson County home.

Welcome to Jackson County, Texas. Whether you are here for a night or a lifetime, we hope you enjoy your stay.

Whether you are here for a short visit or looking for a place to relocate, we hope that your experience here is a pleasant one.

The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture is here to assist you at 130 W. Main St. with county information including maps, brochures, directories and other informational material to help you determine just how to make the most of your time here.

EDNA

TEXAS

Situated at the intersection of U.S. Highway 59 and State Highway 111, 25 minutes away from the Victoria Metropolitan Area and two hours from Houston, Edna is steeped in history and offers an appealing small-town lifestyle with good schools, sound business opportunities, and an array of local and regional events, recreation activities, and historical sites.

Edna traces its history to the settlement of the Texana town site in 1824. Texana served as the focal point of county activities until the railroad bypassed Texana in favor of the current Edna town site.

Around 1880, local businessmen in Texana were approached by railroad promoters to route the soon to be built, New York, Texas and Mexican Railway through Texana, the county seat of Jackson County.

Even a bonus of $30,000 offered by the promoters to the town, did not convince Texana citizens. They refused the offer. The railroad by-passed Texana, seven miles to the north and the Town of Edna was born.

Meet our Officials

Michael Dodds - Dist. 3

Chris Jackson - Dist. 4

Cippi Palacios- Dist. 1

Johnny Vasquez - Dist. 5

Wayne Callis - Dist. 2

Lance Smiga - Edna Mayor

An opportunity inspired a new business

By Rebecca Reeves Contributing Writer

Do you have a sweet tooth and crave something delicious? Margaret Quinones and her business Bakers Gonna Bake –Baked Goods and More has you covered. She takes a lot of pride in selling food that is made from scratch and when customers pick up the food they ordered, they’re getting it fresh. Plus, there’s nothing that she isn’t willing to bake or cook.

Quinones didn’t plan to start a business but welcomed the opportunity when it arose.

“Last year my niece, who is a single mom, had to fundraise to get her son to their championship super bowl for football. I said I would bake some pies and she could just sell them. They did really well because people wanted to know afterward where they could get another pie. I thought, ‘I can bake a couple of pies, no big deal.’ But the pies turned into orders,” she explained. Since she was getting so many orders, she decided to give starting a business a chance. Ever since November of last year, she has been busy baking and cooking and the orders keep coming in.

Not only is she busy with her business, but she is also working part-time with Favor and home-

schooling her three kids. “You just have to manage your time.” Between teaching her kids and taking them to practice, football for her sons and cheerleading for her daughter, and other activities she is kept on her toes. To Quionones, consistency is key.

But baking at home has allowed her to have more time to herself. “I either get up early in the morning and [bake] while everyone is asleep or do it late at night when we’re done with schooling,” said Quinones.

Baking and cooking give her a chance for “me time” and she likes the opportunity it gives her to dive into what she loves. She also said, “I give credit to God because he is the one that inspires me. I pray before I get started. I feel that he put the passion inside of me and the desire and the skills.”

When it comes to baking and cooking, she is open to the possibility of trying new recipes and she’ll spend a lot of time making sure that her products taste good to her customers. It is a challenge though to learn new recipes. She is self-taught and she “goes through hours of videos and hours of recipes. Just because it’s a recipe doesn’t mean it’s going to always come out right. There are many recipes that I’ve done, and they come out great in a video but mine is a massive fail.”

She likes learning new recipes though because she can tweak them and turn them into her own recipes. “I take a lot of this and that and figure out what I could’ve done or what I didn’t do right and then a new recipe comes from it,” said Quinones.

From her dedication to being willing to make new things, her business has grown. She has gained customers from events that she’s made food for as well as from social media. She posts pictures of her finished prod-

BRC Appreciation Weekend coming in June

The fourth annual First Responders and Health Care Heroes Appreciation Weekend at the BRC is set for June 3, 2023.

All Health Care workers, Police, Fire Fighters, EMS, Game Wardens, and all other area First Responders and Health Care Heroes are invited to stay at the Brackenridge Recreation Complex for their fourth Annual First Responders and Health Care Heroes Appreciation Weekend.

If you camp at either the Texana or Brackenridge Parks & Campgrounds, the weekend of June 2 – June 4, 2023, they offer a discount where if you rent one

night of camping you get the second night free.

In honor of our first responders and health care

Park & Campground on June 3rd (time TBA). The public is encouraged to come out for an up-close

Health Care Heroes wishing to take advantage of the discount should make their reservation via phone and ask for the “First Responder/Health Care Hero Discount”. First Responders and Health Care Heroes will need to show their Agency ID upon check-in. Reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance.

heroes, they will have several of Jackson County’s finest with their police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, and more at the Brackenridge

look at these emergency vehicles and meet some of our Jackson County and surrounding area heroes.

First Responders and

Not a First Responder? No worries! With over 275 campsites within the Complex, they have plenty of room for everyone. For more information, please visit www.brackenridgepark.com or call the Brackenridge Park Office at 361-782-5456.

Brackenridge and Texana... ...more than just parks

GANADO

TEXAS

The City of Ganado was a ranching community when it was first settled. Most settlers lived near Mustang Creek and traveled to Texana, Victoria and Indianola for supplies. Jackson County’s “second city,” Cattle ranching was the primary economic engine and herds were driven to Louisiana for sale and later to Kansas City. That came to an abrupt end with the coming of the railroad in 1882. As the story goes, a railroad official looked out the window of a train car and saw a large herd of cattle. He decided the area should be called Ganado, which means “herd” in Spanish. Thus Ganado was named in 1882.

Meet our Officials

Clinton Tegeler - Mayor

Mike Konarik - Councilman

Calvin Callies - Councilman

Sergio LaraMayor Pro Tem

James Sudik - Councilman

Devers Park in Ganado

Located at the end of Sutherland Street, Devers Creek Park provides a beautiful setting for a day of family fun and music concerts. The park features picnic tables, bar-be-que grills, two playground areas, two fishing piers, and an exercise station. Two nature trails follow the banks of Devers Creek, and a covered pavilion complete with restrooms and a kitchen is available to rent for special events. Also located within the park is a large, covered, basketball pavilion, and softball and baseball fields. Devers Park is located adjacent to Indian Stadium and Indian Field, owned by the Ganado Independent School District. For pavilion rental information, call City Hall at 361-771-2232.

Home of the Crawfish Festival

By Jazmine Contreras Staff Writer

The Ganado Volunteer Fire Department holds a Crawfish Festival every year. As of 2022, the event has been going on for 15 years.

The festival is held at Devers Creek Park at the end of April, starts at 2 pm and ends when suppplies are no longer available.

The Crawfish Festival kicked off with a parade and ended the day with good food such as crawfish, sausage, corn and potatoes. There was also DJ entertaiment.

This event is brought to you straight from Louisiana. Tickets cost were $30 for presale and $40 at the door, good for one adult and one child under the age of five.

Check them out on Facebook, Ganado Vol. Fire Dept. Crawfish Festival for up-to-date information, or visit online at www.ganadofire.com.

April

Jackson County Chamber golf tournament

By Jessica Coleman Contributing Writer

Every spring, the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture holds their annual golf tournament.

“The one in April is a fourman team tournament,” said Chamber Administrative Assistant Casey Kemp. “And it gets a lot of positive feedback.”

The event draws people of all ages as well.

“Men, woman, young, old,” said Kemp. “So we have some guys who come out with their

kids to play, we have groups from local groups and organizations. For example, YK Communications out of Ganado sponsors a team annually and a group of four of their employees come out and play.”

Local businesses also get involved donating supplies and gifts for the teams, and the Chamber hands out lunch and goodies as well.

“We provide lunch, prizes, door prizes, swag,” said Kemp. “It’s just a fun event for the local golfers.”

Jackson County Ministerial Alliance

By Lori Staples Chair - Jackson County Ministerial Alliance

The Jackson County Ministerial Alliance is a network of our local churches, pastors and leaders. We meet on the 2nd Monday each month for a luncheon to discuss and plan community faith-based events, including National Day of Prayer, Good Friday Community Service, Edna High School Baccalaureate, prayer gatherings for our Jackson County schools, special prayer services, and a Community Thanksgiving service.

Our prayer services are typically held at the gazebo at the Jackson County Courthouse lawn. We were honored to gather

for a special prayer service for the students, teachers, and families of Uvalde Elementary in 2022.

The purpose of the Alliance is fellowship, inspiration and encouragement among its membership; for outreach, evangelism and community cooperation; and to help set the tone of the moral and spiritual life of our community. Ganado and Industrial school districts can check with their local churches regarding Baccalaureate Services.

Pictures are from Uvalde Prayer Service, National Day of Prayer, and Good Friday Service

Texana Education Center

Edna Juneteenth

By Jazmine Contreras Staff Writer

Juneteenth is a federal holiday in the United States in which celebrates the freedom of slaves.

Edna celebrates each year with a lively festival.

The Juneteenth festival has kicked off with a parade with African American owned small businesses and their family and friends.

The festival is family friendly with jump houses, live music and even a pageant.

There is also vendors for the event in which they can offer food, clothes, and many more items.

The night ends with fireworks lighting up the sky.

By Jessica Coleman Contributing Writer

Summertime is a big deal out at the Brackenridge Recreation Center, with kids’ nature camps, outdoor movie nights, an End of Summer Bash, and more throughout the summer break.

One of the most popular events is the Independence Day Celebration.

The 4th of July event has grown substantially in the few years its been held, and promises to continue to get bigger and better.

The celebration includes events for kids in the form of a Ride ‘Em, Push ‘Em, Pull ‘Em Parade and a kiddie

Tractor Pull.

A watermelon-eating contest has become a fun tradition and has two age-group categories - one for kids and one or adults.

Food trucks and other set-ups to allow shopping for the whole family, and the park holds a Best Decorated Campsite contest for those camping at the parks, and they recently added a family obstacle course competition for the more physically competitive families in attendance.

An antique tractor parade provides a sense of nostalgia. The whole day ends with a fireworks show under the stars.

A different kind of Rose

been able to access this beautiful plant that has medicinal values to it. We saw that there could be a big business in this so we leaped into it and I think it’s been the hardest thing that we have ever done, I know I have ever done,” he said. “Learning the CBD world is fast paced and ever-changing, so we have to be on top of what’s going on in the world and what laws are changing. Delta-8 and other isomers may become illegal in the next few months, so if those isomers become illegal in Texas, they are going to hurt our business and every CBD business, but that’s what works.

“These products help people and give them relief. The feedback that we get pushes us to keep going,” Bowen continued. “Some people come here as their last straw and they find a product that helps them. It keeps us driven.”

wheels are always turning, and they hope to bring some new items to their boutique in 2023.

“Hemp is one of the warmest insulators,” Fairleigh said. “There are so many things we can do with it.”

If you do visit their store and try any of their products, the couple said they love feedback because it gives them a reason to continue doing what they are doing. People share their stories and how their products have helped them and changed their life, and it gives the Rose couple their drive.

Fairleigh said it reminds them why God has them here, that this is totally a God thing. “We didn’t plan on opening a shop, we hoped for our products to do well, but we didn’t expect to open up a boutique, that wasn’t something in our plan. God put it in our head and we did it and that’s that,” she said.

By Millie Diaz Contributing Writer

Whether you’re a tourist or a native to Jackson County, chances are Rose Cannabis & Boutique in Edna might have something for you. The owners, Bowen and Fairleigh Rose, invite everyone and anyone to check them out on 205 West Main.

The boutique carries men’s, women’s, kid’s and babies’ clothing and sells signature pieces that represent the couple, like the Gigi Pip hats one might find Fairleigh wearing on any given day.

“We chose brands that fit our style, it’s something we like or we wear, or the brands we have already been wearing,” Bowen said. “One of the brands of knives that we carry is one that I’ve been carrying since we started growing hemp, and this knife has held up very well. The company is Anza out of California. It’s a special product, at least to me. I’ve been carrying for three years, so it’s something I wanted to bring in.”

Bowen’s mother, Brenda Rose, makes and sells candles and soaps, while they also highlight stamped aluminum jewelry made by Lexi Schroller and Zach Johnson, who does all the leatherwork.

“I feel like we carry a good mixture of everything, and we’re still trying to figure out what people want.

We just appreciate the hard work from small businesses,” Fairleigh said.

On the CBD side, Rose Cannabis & Boutique offers several bestsellers that have become popular locally. They sell a watermelon seltzer which contains 15 milligrams of hemp-derived THC, and are the first store in Texas to sell a drink with that amount.

They also sell Delta-8 lotion in a coconut lavender scent, and sell Delta-8 gummies, plus rosin drops that go under your tongue. Everything they make is in small batches.

“At first we made all of our products, but now that we’ve grown, it’s very time-consuming, like making the gummies, cause they have to dry, so we have a trusted source that makes some of our gummies now,” Fairleigh said. “That’s why we say small-batch because we like them to be fresh and not sitting on the shelf for six months. So that’s something we pride ourselves in.”

Though the couple has been growing hemp since 2020 and making products, they opened their boutique on September 2 of 2022.

Bowen said in 2019 he started doing all the research because he heard there might be legalization in 2020.

“I’ve heard a lot about this plant growing up, and you have heard about how it’s healed and helped with cancer and helped with all kinds of different things and Texas has not

Fairleigh said she’s always been one who would rather try natural relief rather than taking prescription medicines.

“When Bowen started researching it piqued my interest,” she said. “I’ve thought, ‘this is amazing and I believe in it.’ I feel like so many things have added up and have grown my passion for it, but in the beginning, it was more for personal reasons.

“To me it was exciting to make a drink because we don’t drink alcohol, and it’s not that important for me to have it, but if we go to a BBQ with our friends and everyone is having a beer, I’m excited now to have one of my drinks,” Fairleigh said.

“We are planning on working with some new flavors in the future,” Bowen said.

The couple agreed their mental

Bowen agreed. “I believe God has opened these doors, we had prayed ever since we started this, because it being new and me being a recovering alcoholic and addict, it was like, ‘are we doing the right thing?’ When we started this hemp deal, we continued to pray and doors have continued to open for us, we continue to grow our business.”

All in all, they want Rose Cannabis & Boutique to be a place where everyone feels welcome. They love helping people, explaining their process, and want to continue doing it for as long as they can.

The store is open Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Look below in their ad to find out their website, phone numbers, Facebook and Instagram pages.

Jackson County at a glance

Data from the Texas Almanac

Population - 14,739

Area (sq. mi.) - 856.9

Altitude sea level - 155

Rainfall (in.) - 43.25

Jan. mean min. - 42.0

July mean max. - 94.0

Civilian labor - 7,439

Unemployed % - 4.6

Wages - $54,536,655

Per Capita income - $37,136

Prop. Value - $2,459,407,498 Retail Sales - $200,346,091

Jackson County Texas

BRC End of Summer Bash

At the end of July the Brackenridge Park & Campground hold their End of Summer Bash. Activities include live music, beer and wine vendors, food trucks, market vendors, water slides, a Kid’s Fun Zone, hayrides, and an outdoor game area. To wind down the night, there is a fireworks show at night. In addition to local bands and artists performing, Rusty Hook Winery is usually on-site selling a wide variety of wine AND wine slushes for the event. Wine can be purchased by the glass or by the bottle.

The Ganado Education Foundation Booth is also usually open, as they will be selling beer to raise money to benefit their school district. There will also be several market vendors set up in the evening selling a variety of items. Bring your appetite as well because food trucks on-site will be serving up everyone’s favorite festival foods for the day.

One of the many activities your family will enjoy is the Kid’s Fun Zone. The Fun Zone is equipped with several different stations including Face Painting, Rock

Larry Horton Memorial Cookoff August

By Jessica Coleman Contributing Writer

Every year for the last four years, the Larry Horton Memorial Foundation holds a cookoff on the third weekend in August. Teams set up at the Old Fairgrounds and cook brisket, beans,

sausage, ribs, and BBQ sauce, for a chance to win cash prizes and raise money for a good cause.

The event begins with a pulled pork sale to help raise funds, and also includes a bucket raffle of donated items. Local businesses sponsor categories or donate

funds or items.

The two-day event benefits Jackson County seniors, and in 2022 awarded scholarships to five graduating seniors.

Not only is the event a way to raise money for a great reason, it’s also a way to remember Larry Horton, who passed away in August of 2017 after a years-long battle with cancer. Horton was a member of a cookoff team himself, as well as being an active and generous member of his community.

A message on the foundation’s Facebook page remembers him fondly.

“He grew up participating in rodeo, raising livestock, and spent most of his career in an ag related field. He was an active member of the community as a Little League coach, Cub Scout troop leader, volunteer firefighter, 4-H leader, and award winning member of the Flag City Kooker cookoff team.”

August Big Buck and Big Hog contest

By Jessica Coleman Contributing Writer

In August of 2023, Jackson County residents and people from across the state will begin preparing for the Best of Texas Big Buck and Big Hog contest.

The contest is a fiercely competitive one, and hunters of all ages join in.

“We have an average of 150 plus participants every year,” said Casey Kemp, of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture. “As it’s gone on each year it’s gotten a little bit bigger, a little bit better.”

There are almost $9,000 in prizes up for grabs and several categories for buck hunting, hog hunting, youth hunts, and more, and a banquet at the end to celebrate winners.

“We raffle some guns, we raffle off a lifetime hunting license through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, then of course we have a dinner and give out awards for the biggest, the heaviest, etcetera.

Not a hunter? That’s ok! There are competitions for you, too. There’s a wildlife scene photography contest and a game camera photo contest.

National Night Out

By Rebecca Reeves Contributing Writer

In the early weeks of October 2023, the Edna Rotary Club will put on its eighth annual National Night Out at the Jackson County Services Building in Edna.

Typically, National Night Out is a way for the community to get to know the local law enforcement but the Edna Rotary Club wanted to do something a little bit different.

“Instead of just law enforcement, we open it up to other services as well,” said Lee Kucera, the Edna Rotary Club president. “Firefighters, EMS, game wardens, and many others are invited to come out and spend some time with the community. National Night Out allows people to understand what other services are out there that they may never need. Or if they do, they understand what they’re doing,” said Kucera.

In the past, firefighters have come out and shown people how the jaws of life work. EMS has shown the community what the inside of an ambulance looks like and they show people how everything operates.

DPS troopers have also given

demonstrations about seat belt safety.

This event is a great way for the community to gain a better understanding of everything that law enforcement does, as well as those affiliated with them.

Along with everything that the different services put on, and before COVID, there were vendors and booths set up that had hotdogs, water, and so much more. Once COVID hit, the Edna Rotary Club wasn’t able to invite any organizations, businesses, or vendors to come out.

Kucera is hoping that they will be able to let different organizations and businesses take part again at the 2023 National Night Out.

They want to try to get more of the community involved. “You open a booth and give stuff away and that gets more people to come out,” Kucera said.

National Night Out is a great way to gain awareness about the different services that different disciplines provide, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

To learn more about Edna Rotary Club’s National Night Out, check out their Facebook page.

BRC Spooktacular Trail and Carnival

Looking to enjoy some fun and games this Halloween season? Come and celebrate by attending the 11th Annual BRC Spooktacular Trail and Carnival at the end of October at the Texana Park & Campground Pavilion, which is located six miles outside of Edna on St. Hwy. 111 N.

There will be plenty of games for kids of all ages to play at the Spooktacular Carnival. Everyone’s a winner with lots of candy and prizes.

Starting in the evening is the always popular Costume Contest. The Costume Contest has five age groups: (0-12 months, 13 months –2 yrs., 3-4, 5-6, and 7-9) with 1st – 3rd place prizes awarded in each group. Bring your decorated and/or carved pumpkin to be entered in their Best Decorated/Carved Pumpkin Contest. Prizes will be awarded to the top three winners.

They will also be bringing back their large activity area, which will include several full-size photo opportunity cutouts, Tic-Tac-Toe, and Hay Slides. They’ll also have some friendly reptiles on display from the Texana Nature Center. They will also have FREE face painting and balloon art at the event.

Back by popular demand is the Kids Craft Tent sponsored by Sisters Design. Inside the tent, there will be three different stations set up. Kids will be able to create their own souvenir Tote Bag using fabric markers at one station. The other two stations are FREE and will be equipped with crayons and markers for some Halloween craft fun that each child can take home.

Returning this year is H-E-B Pumpkin Patch. Decorated with a rustic fence, lots of pump-

kins, hay bales and festive décor will make it the perfect place to get your group together for a photograph.

Lastly and probably, most anticipated…you will not want to miss the BRC Spooktacular Trail. Once you enter, there is no turning back!

With the growth of the event and the limited amount of parking area located by the event area, buses are utilized to transport all event attendees to and from the event this year. The event location has very limited parking which will be reserved for their handicapped patrons ONLY. Event attendees including those camping in Brackenridge Park will park their vehicle at the Brackenridge Main Event Center where they will board one of three large, air-conditioned buses which will run continuously throughout the evening to shuttle them to and from the event entrance. Attendees will then hop on a festive hayride thru the Day Use Area down to the event. Family friendly Halloween décor along the route will make the hayride even more fun.

Armbands will be sold at the Main Event Center that evening or may be purchased in advance at either of the park offices. Please note that pets are not allowed at the event unless they are a certified service dog.

Their goal with the new transportation plan is to provide a more efficient and safer experience for everyone attending the event. They first utilized this plan in 2019, and it was well received by their event guests so they are happy to bring it back.

For more up-to-date information visit their website www. brackenridgepark.com or call (361) 782-5456.

Jackson County Churches

ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY CATHOLIC 108 S. Sixth St., Ganado 361-771-3425

BAPTIST TEMPLE 1001 N. Wells, Edna 361-782-2990

CARANCAHUA CHAPEL Carancahua, Texas 979-532-8478

CHURCH OF CHRIST 77 CR 449 Francitas, TX 77961

CHURCH OF CHRIST Garcitas Street, Vanderbilt 361-284-3546

CHRISTIAN LIVING CHURCH 123 S. Third, Ganado

CROSSROADS COUNTRY COWBOY CHURCH 3343 Old Highway Rd., Inez 210-827-4513

EDNA PRESBYTERIAN 502 Apollo Drive, Edna 361-782-3108

EMMANUEL LUTHERAN Church & Kolle Streets, Inez 361-782-3646

FIRST ASSEMBLY OF GOD Cypress & Ed Linn, Edna 361-782-3394

FIRST BAPTIST 309 S. Cottonwood, Edna 361-782-2470

FIRST BAPTIST

400 Buechman Road, Ganado 361-771-2403

FIRST BAPTIST

230 FM 444 South, Inez 361-782-6093

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH Lolita 361-874-4151

FIRST BAPTIST MISSION 411 N. Pumphrey, Edna 361-782-3040

FIRST PENTECOSTAL

Apollo Drive (FM 1822), Edna 361-782-2052

FIRST UNITED METHODIST 216 W. Main, Edna 361-782-3561

FIRST UNITED METHODIST Twin Oaks Drive, Ganado 361-771-3750

FRANCITAS BAPTIST

Francitas, Texas 361-872-2127

GANADO CHURCH OF CHRIST

Corner Gayle & Sutherland, Ganado 361-771-2984

GRACE FELLOWSHIP BAPTIST 128 CR 119, Edna 361-236-2727 placeofgracetx@gmail.com

GRACE TABERNACLE 102 Brown St., Edna 361-782-9041

IGLESIA DEL ALTISIMO UPCI 111 S. Bryan, Edna 361-782-5315

IGLESIA NUEVA JERUSALEM 1201 Chase St., Edna 832-877-4195

JACKSON COUNTY MINISTERIAL ALLIANCE 361-782-3561

LA WARD BAPTIST West Hwy. 172 South, La Ward

LA WARD UNITED PENTECOSTAL

52 La Ward Street, La Ward 361-872-2254

LIFE WAY BAPTIST CHURCH 107 Brazos, Edna 361-781-0598

LIVING WATER BAPTIST CHURCH 501 N. Third, Ganado 361-771-2263

LOLITA UNITED METHODIST College Street, Lolita 361-987-2812

MORALES BAPTIST Hwy. 111 North, Edna 361-979-481-3203

MOUNT OLIVE BAPTIST 7 mi. Hwy. 111 N. on CR 287, Edna 361-781-0855

NEW HARVEST CHRISTIAN CHURCH 1016 S. East Street, Edna

NEW LIFE CATHEDRAL PENTECOSTAL CHURCH OF GOD 301 W. Church, Edna

PROSPERITY BAPTIST Oberg Street, Ganado 361-771-3620

PURE LIGHT BAPTIST CHURCH 6342 FM 616 Vanderbilt 361-235-1529

REDEEMER LUTHERAN 504 Dugger Street, Edna 361-782-3793

ROBISON ST CHURCH OF CHRIST 301 Robison St., Edna 361-782-2844; 361-782-5506

SCRUGGS CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST 313 N. Carver, Edna 361-782-2135

SHILOH MISSIONARY BAPTIST 604 Martin Luther King St., Edna 361-782-3137

SOUL’S HARBOR BAPTIST Hwy. 172 South, Ganado 361-771-2271

ST. AGNES CATHOLIC 506 N. Allen, Edna 361-782-3588

ST. JAMES LUTHERAN 900 S. Third (Hwy. 172) Ganado 361-771-2461

ST. JOHN BOSCO CATHOLIC Vanderbilt 361-284-3361; 361-284-3737

ST. PAUL LUTHERAN 108 E. Gayle, Edna 361-782-3037

ST. THERESA MISSION LaSalle, Texas 361-284-3361; 361-284-3737

THE RANCH COWBOY COUNTRY CHURCH (Red Brick Building behind KC Hall) 822 Navidad Rd Edna, TX 77957 682-465-8658

TRINITY EPISCOPAL 102 W. Church, Edna

TRINITY FULL GOSPEL CHURCH OF EDNA 514 Dugger St., Edna 210-287-4335

VANDERBILT BAPTIST 304 S. Victoria, Vanderbilt 361-284-3659

WORLD OUTREACH BIBLE CHURCH 1014 S. Wells (Hwy 111 S), Edna

Jackson County schools

Jackson County is home to three public school districts and one private school. Edna Independent School District, Ganado ISD, Industrial ISD and the Edna Christian Academy provide a quality eduction to the county’s students.

EDNA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Established in August 2000, Edna Christian Academy is led by the pastor of the First Pentecostal Church, Rev. Darrell Clark. Each student is taught one-on-one and works at their own pace. Students are diagnostically taught at their learning level and have to maintain an academic balance to be eligible for privileges or honor roll. Edna Christian Academy teaches K- 12. The curriculum and office arrangement permits a consistent one-onone student/teacher ratio in a comfortable Christian atmosphere.

Administration 807 Apollo Drive Edna, TX 77957 361-782-2052 www.ednachristianacademy. org.

approximently 1,600 students. The male/female ratio is about 50/50 with 62 percent economically disadvantage, 11 percent African American, 40 percent white, and 43 percent Hispanic. Approximately 9 percent of the Edna student population are English Language Learners.

The Cowboys and Cowgirls are a source of pride for the community and their success continues to build as the expectation level increases.

In 2022, the Edna football team advanced to the State Semi-Final playoff round.

It is a great phenomenon to watch the Cowboy Family come together to support our kids as they compete in their chosen field of endeavor.

The Edna ISD board of trustees are Patrick Brzozowski, president; Brandon Peters, vice president; Brandon Curlee, secretary; Terry Miller, assistant secretary; William Alex, Dustin Kocian and Donnie Mac Long.

Superintendent Robert O’Connor

High School

Principal Patrick Parsons

Alternative School

Principal Sonya Proper

Admin Office

601 N. Wells Edna, TX 77957 361-782-3573 www.ednaisd.org

INDUSTRIAL ISD

EDNA ISD

Home of the ‘Cowboys,’ Edna ISD is a rural 3A district in the heart of Jackson County. EISD is comprised of six campuses, there are

Principal Scott Kana

Junior High Principal Rich Dubroc Elementary

GANADO ISD

Ganado ISD is located in the northern part of Jackson County 37 miles northeast of Victoria and approximately 90 miles southwest of Houston. The ‘Indians’ campuses serve a total enrollment of 717 students (349 in Elementary, 167 Junior High; and 201 High School).

School board trustees are Clay Green, president; Chris Hajovsky, vice president; Billy Benavides, secretary; Jaime Bures, Shelby Hurt, Mary Kay George and Susanne Pape.

Superintendent Dr. Brian McCraw

Secondary School

Principal Katherine Edwards Elementary Principal Ashley Gabrysch Admin Office

210 South 6th Street Ganado, TX 77962 361-771-4200 www.ganadoisd.org

The Industrial school district is located in the heart of Region III along the Gulf Coast of Texas in the southern part of Jackson County Texas. A 3A school who won the State Championship in volleyball in 2019, the ‘Cobras’ football team also advanced three rounds deep in 2022.

The district’s enrollment at all four campuses is approximately 1,189 as of December 2022.

School board trustees are Dale Allen, president; Clay Van Pelt, vice president; Sara Perry, secretary; Denise Chaney, B.J. Ellison, Charlie Grymes, Jason Hayden.

Superintendent Clark Motley

High School

Principal Heather Nairn Assistant Principal Greg Crockett

Junior High Principal Brandon Karl

Elementary East Principal Lisa Baughman

Elementary West Principal Dana Foyt

Admin Office

167 Fifth Street P.O. Box 369 Vanderbilt, TX 77991 361-284-3226 www.industrialisd.org

Jackson Co Youth Fair

Chili Spill at BRC

The 21st Annual Texana Chili Spill will be held at the beginning of November at the Brackenridge Main Event Center, sponsored by the Lavaca-Navidad River Authority and the Jackson County Go-Texan Committee.

This year’s event will include a Veterans Ceremony, and Appreciation Dinner sponsored by HEB, and a fireworks display. All Veterans, active Military, and immediate family are invited.

The cook-offs begin on Friday with the ever-popular Salsa and Margarita Competitions.

Additional events include Chef’s Choice competition, Sausage competition, and the Go-Texan Dutch Oven Dessert Cook-off.

Join them for a full and final day of fun on Saturday. Cook-off competitions start in the morning with the Bloody Mary competition followed by Beans, Go-Texan Jackpot Chicken, Gumbo, Go-Texan Jackpot Ribs, Chili, and Go-Texan Brisket competitions, along with their KidsQue competition. The Jackson County Go-Texan Committee’s first place brisket winning team will receive a cash prize money, and can also enter the Top Gun Jackpot for a chance to win extra cash money.

Also join them in the Wine/Beer Garden as they spotlight local acoustic artists. One can grab some food and a drink while listening to artists perform

the classics along with their own music. Lavaca Bluffs Winery is usually on-site selling a wide variety of their tasty wines by the glass and bottle.

Returning to this year’s event on Saturday is the Cornhole Jackpot Tournament.

For registration forms and more information, visit their website www.texanachilispill.com. Also, join them at the Texana Market for a full-fun day of shopping from local vendors. There will also be Helicopter Rides, and a FREE Kids Zone with fun inflatables, a craft zone, face painting, nature exhibits, and much more.

Don’t forget about the Texana Heat Jalapeno Eating Contest sponsored by Whataburger. The Contest is FREE and limited to 12 participants. They’ll also have several food trucks on-site serving up everyone’s favorite festival foods.

Brackenridge Main Event Center is located about six miles south of Edna on State Highway 111.

If you would like to participate in the 21st Annual Texana Chili Spill, please contact the LNRA Main Office at 361-782-5229. For all things Chili Spill, visit www.texanachilispill.com or follow them on Facebook “Texana Chili Spill” to learn the latest information.

Animal resources in Jackson

*Wildlife*

Please note than many wildlife rescue volunteers are species/family specific and must have a permit/sub-permit for the animal in question in order to legally obtain the animal. Birds are both federally and state protected and therefore require permitting/sub-permitting from both TPWD and USFW.

Rehabbers may ask/require that you transport the animal to them if legally allowed (Transport of rabies vector species like skunks and raccoons is only permitted by permitted/subpermitted volunteers).

JACKSON COUNTY

Jessica Coleman, Edna, 361235-0486: Birds, (including raptors/aquatic birds), mammals (no deer), reptiles.

Katie Kidney, Edna/Ganado area 361-554-3004: Small mammals (no deer), exotics, cats, birds (incl. raptors/aquatic birds), reptiles.

MATAGORDA COUNTY

Susan Dancer, Blessing, 979479-0627: mammals (including deer), no birds.

Cherie Allen, Bay City, 979244-6710: Birds (including raptors/aquatic birds), small mammals (no deer)

LAVACA COUNTY

Nay Fojtik, Yoakum/Hope area, 361-781-2577. Mammals (including deer) (no birds).

VICTORIA COUNTY

Toya Stone, Victoria,( Facebook Message preferred); Birds (including raptors/aquatic birds), small mammals (no deer).

*Pet Animals*

JACKSON COUNTY

Edna Animal Control, 361-7825271; dogs, other animal questions/complaints.

Happy Tails Animal Shelter, 361-782-8417; dogs, cats

Lumpy Lizard Rescue, Edna 361-235-0486; reptiles, exotic and small animals, poultry.

Katie Kidney, Edna/Ganado area, 361-554-3004; cats, small animals, exotics.

VICTORIA COUNTY

Adopt a Pet, Victoria, 361-5757387; dogs and cats;

Dorothy H. O'Connor, 361-5758573; dogs and cats

Acres of Animals, Mission Valley, 361-573-4002

Shelter Pets of Victoria, Victoria, 361-571-6298; dogs.

to join

EnforcementAssocia-

Jackson

Texana

Jackson County Chamber of Commerce banquet

By Jessica Coleman Contributing Writer

Every year the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture hosts their banquet. Many Jackson County residents look forward to the event because it’s a fun reason to dress up in formal or semi-formal attire.

“The annual Chamber Banquet is hosted every year at the end of the year,” said Casey Kemp, the Chamber’s administrative assistant. “It’s purpose is to go back and look at the things that have happened all year long.”

Not only does the event look back on the year’s events, it recognizes citizens and organizations that have contributed positively to their community.

“We recognize Business of the Year, Citizen of the Year, a Beautification Award, and an Agriculture Award.”

Those awards are chosen based on a nomination process.

“We take nominations from the public, and we encourage them,” said Kemp. “I wish we received more of them.”

One need not be a Chamber member to nominate someone for an award. There’s also a guest speaker, a meal, and a silent auction.

“All the funds that are raised just get pumped back into the community,” said Kemp.

Parks in Edna

Children’s Park

Children's Park has a variety of playground equipment, handicapped swings, walking trail, and picnic area. If you are utilizing the walking trail, here is a helpful tip: Walking six times around the track equals one mile.

• ADA Accessible

• Picnic Areas

• Walking Track

Features:

• Parking

• Playground

Martin Luther King Park

One of the city’s newest park, Martin Luther King Park includes playground equipment, a walking trail, and covered picnic area. The walking trail is a great source of exercise! Here's some important information: Walking one time around the park on the trail equals 1/2 mile.

•ADA Accessible

• Parking

• Picnic Areas

• Playground

Features:

• Grill

• Pavilion

• Picnic Tables

• Walking Track

Shelby Park

Shelby Park is the home to the Edna Cowboys Baseball Team, the Edna Cowgirls Softball Team, the Edna Little League Baseball and Softball Teams, and the Edna Youth Football Association. Shelby Park includes a walking trail and city pool. The distance around the walking trail is 440 yards which is a quarter of a mile. Also at Shelby Park is Shelby Hall which is utilized by non-profit organizations and individuals for a nominal fee. Shelby Hall seats 125 people includes a refrigerator, microwave and stove. To reserve the Shelby Hall contact City Hall 361-782-3122.

Features:

• ADA Accessible

• Baseball / Softball Diamond

• Parking

• Pool

• Baseball / Softball

• Football Field

• Playground

• Restrooms

You can pick up a Jackson County Herald-Tribune at the following locations:

Edna: Stripes, 7-11, HEB, Texana Food Mart, Handi-Quick, Hwy 111 Shell, Conner’s, Whataburger, JCHT office.

Ganado: Brookshire Bros., B & B, Cast Iron, Estella’s, Pump & Munch, J & J

Lolita: Circle R, James Station

Louise: Shortstop Inez: Smitty’s Shell station

Vanderbilt: Cobra Corner You can also call 361-782-3547 or stop in the office at 306 N. Wells St. in Edna, to purchase a subscription.

Newcomer Contact Information

Electricity: AEP: 877-373-4858

Jackson Electric Cooperative: 361-771-4100 Telephone

ATT: 1-800-222-0900

YK Communications: 361-771-3331 or 1-888-3951499

La Ward Telephone: 361-872-2211

Natural Gas: Centerpoint Energy: 1-800-427-7142

Propane Gas: Jackson Electric Cooperative, Inc.: 361-771-4400

Water: City of Edna: 361-782-3401

City of Ganado: 361-771-2997

City of La Ward: 361-872-2351

Jackson County Water District #1, Lolita: 361-874-4369

Jackson County Water District #2, Vanderbilt: 361-284-3572

Important Numbers

Edna

City Administration 361-782-3122

Code Enforcement 361-782-3122

Municipal Court 361-782-8880 Parks & Recreation 361-782-6512

Police Department 361-782-5271

Public Works Dept. 361-782-3122 Streets 361-782-6512

Water & Wastewater 361-782-2800

Utility Billing 361-782-3122

Ganado

City Administration 361-771-2232

#1 Water & Wastewater #2 City Secretary

#3 Municipal Court

#4 Police Department

#5 Public Works Dept. Code Enforcement 361-771-2232

Parks & Recreation 361-771-2232 Streets 361-771-2232

Utility Billing 361-771-2232

Boating and fishing at Lake Texana

Whether it’s for fishing, watersports or just a leisurely day on the lake, Jackson Count offers 11 points of access to boaters, maintained by the Lavaca Navidad River Authority year-round. These public boat ramps can be found throughout the county, all offering possibilities for sportsman and recreational enthusiasts alike. For visitors’ convenience, two boat ramps are located in Brackenridge Recreation Complex.

Lake Texana is the largest body of water in the county, covers 10,000 acres, and is surrounded by 125 miles of shoreline. A reservoir formed as a result of the creation of the Palmetto Bend Dam, the lake has become a thriving habitat for species of fish, waterfowl, alligators and other wildlife.

From Ganado and stretching south to State Highway 3131, the lake is the standout geographical feature of the region.

List of boat ramps

Boat Ramp 1: Located off Simons Road (CR 417) Boat Ramp 2: Located off FM 1593 and Hwy 111 S. Boat Ramp 3: Located off of Hwy 59 S (Ganado side) Boat Ramp 4: Located off of Hwy 59 N (Edna side) Boat Ramp 5: Located off of Hwy 172 outside of Ganado Boat Ramp 6: Located off of FM 2982 inside the Mustang Creek Wilderness area

Boat Ramp 7: Located inside Brackenridge Park and Campground, by the gazebo Boat Ramp 8: Located off CR 237 off of Hwy 172 S Boat Ramp 9: Closed Boat Ramp 10: Located off Hwy 1157 outside of Ganado Boat Ramp11: Located inside Texana Park and Campground, in the day-use area

* Boat ramps may be closed from time to time for maintenance or inaccessibility. It is recommended that boaters visit http://www.lnra.org/recreation/ boat-ramp-information for up-to-date information on any ramp closures before your visit.

from page 11

ucts on social media and in turn, she gains three to four more customers. Sometimes, they ask her if she can make something she’s never made before and she’s always up to the task. “Everything that they ask of me, and that I learn how to do, is what helps me learn and grow,” explains Quinones.

One day, she hopes to be able

to expand her business and share with others her passion for baking and cooking.

“I would really love to open up some kind of a small shop where people can just come in, pick up an item, and just walk out.” But for now, she will continue to bake and cook at her house. is the one that inspires me. I pray before I get started. I feel that he put the passion inside of me and the desire and the skills.”

Bakers Gonna Bake BRC End of Summer Bash

from page 23

Painting, a Bubble Station, Hula Hoops, and then the whole family can get their hair sprayed at the Hair Coloring Station. The Kids Fun Zone is usually open from 4-7:30 p.m.

Make sure to bring an extra set of clothes for the kids because there will be three water slides available for them to enjoy. There will also be a regular dry bounce house for those who may not want to get wet.

Other fun family activities include the Outdoor Game Area which consists of Corn-

hole, Horseshoes, Washers, Giant Jenga, Tic-Tac-Toe, Connect Four, Ninja Warrior Steps and a Hay Slide. Families can also jump on a Hay Ride as it winds through beautiful Brackenridge Park & Campground.

Come make it a full weekend of fun by camping at the Brackenridge Recreation Complex and receive a discount on All-inclusive Armbands. For more upto-date information, visit the website www.brackenridgepark.com or call (361) 782-5456.

Where to rest your laurels in Jackson County

Besos Ranch RV Park, 539 FM 822, Edna, 361-781-0888

Brackenridge Park, 891 Brackenridge Parkway, Edna, 361-782-5456

Cinch RV Park, 304 W. York St., Ganado, 361-771-3401

Cordele RV Park, 107 E. Cordele St., Edna, 361-782-1637

Country Living RV Park, Lolita, 361-308-0868

Cozy Camp RV Park, 546 CR 405, Edna, 361-676-3303

D&L’s RV Park, 6840 FM 710, Ganado 361-771-8702

Fivecoats RV Park, 87 FM 234, Edna, 361-782-5109

Flag City RV & Mobile Home Village, 700 Elm St., Edna, 713-202-8069

FM 710 RV Park, Ganado, 361-771-8702

Harv’s Paradise RV Oasis on the River, 2165 CR 457, La Ward, 979-422-7851

Highway 59 RV Park, 211 Mauritz Ave., Ganado, 361-221-2160

Mustang RV Park, Ganado, 361-771-3106

Oak Tree RV Park, Ganado, 361-771-8794

Shady Oaks RV Park, 4474 Hwy. 59, Ganado, 361-782-7450

Texana Park, 46 Park Rd., Edna, 361-782-5718

Treasure Gardens RV Park, Cordele Rd., Edna, 361-782-8844

Twin Lakes RV Park, 397 PR 3190, Edna, 361-782-1431

America’s Best Value, 1006 E. Houston Hwy., Edna, 361-782-5276

Best Western, 310 E. Houston Hwy., Edna, 361-781-0500

Budget Inn and Suites, 203 W. York St., Ganado, 361-771-3600

Edna Star Laundry and Motel, 805 W. Main St., Edna, 361-235-4211

Jackson Inn, 1131 Hwy 59 S., Edna, 361-782-0808

Texana Inn, 925 W. Main St., Edna, 361-782-3502

A hidden place for the hikers and campers

Mustang Creek Recreation Area

This site is open daily, and developed camping is available at the site.

This interesting wooded enclave is admittedly difficult to find. From Ganado, go west on Loop 522 W to FM 2982 S, then turn left (south) on FM 2982 to CR 249. Turn left (east) on CR 249 and drive straight to the entrance of the Mustang Creek Recreation Area.

Well-preserved and rarely visited, this forested area offers the opportunity to see a variety of eastern woodland birds, most of which are identical to those seen in the woodland areas of the Texana Park and Campground. However, migration tends to shuffle the deck, and one will never know exactly what to expect at any given location.

Subscribe to the Jackson County Herald-Tribune, $40 in-county, $45 out-ofcounty, or $50 out-of-state for a year.

Jackson County History

Jackson County, on U.S. Highway 59 in the Coastal Prairies region southwest of Houston, borders both Lavaca Bay and Carancahua Bay and is bounded by Calhoun, Victoria, Lavaca, Colorado, Wharton, and Matagorda counties. Edna, the county’s largest town, is the county seat.

Jackson County is one of the original counties of Texas and was formed in 1836 from the old Mexican municipality of Jackson. Both the municipality and the county were named after President Andrew Jackson and were settled predominantly by American colonists. Jackson County comprises 844 square miles.

Karankawa Indians were the earliest occupants of the future county. In 1528 Europeans made the first contact with Texas Indians when remnants of Pánfilo de Narváez's calamitous expedition washed ashore on an island they named Malhado.

In 1684 René Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, explored the area and established a settlement called Fort St. Louis, which some claim was in the future Jackson County.

Six of Stephen F. Austin's Old Three Hundred families settled in the future county.

The year 1835 brought turbulent changes to the Alabama Settlement. On July 17, 1835, area settlers met for the Lavaca-Navidad Meeting, where they adopted resolutions protesting the actions of the Mexican government. On December 5, 1835, as American colonists and their Federalist Tejano allies fought to capture San Antonio de Béxar, the provisional government of Texas established Jackson Municipality.

With the surrender and departure of Centralist forces in Bexar, citizens of Jackson Municipality mistakenly anticipated that 1836 would herald the beginning of a new prosperity. Texana was the port of entry and training camp for many volunteers from the United States in the Texas Revolution. Antonio López de Santa Anna was on the march at the head of a large army and had soon defeated the rebel garrisons at the Alamo and Goliad. One Jackson County man, William Sutherland, fell at the Alamo. News of the dual debacles and

the advance of the Mexican army caused most citizens of Jackson Municipality to flee as part of the Runaway Scrape.

During early statehood Texana emerged as the county's chief town. As early as 1840 a weekly steamboat ran from Texana to the pass of Matagorda Bay. The population of the county, however, remained relatively small.

Although Jackson County was spared a great deal of the violence that much of Texas suffered during Reconstruction, the county nonetheless suffered an extended period of lawlessness. Violence and crime became widespread, and law-abiding travelers soon learned to avoid the lightly settled range country. The town of Morales served as a haven for fugitive criminals from surrounding counties and was the site of more killings than any other settlement in the county. The notorious Dalton Gang reportedly took refuge in a Morales hideout while eluding a posse. By the mid-1870s, however, order had been largely restored.

During the 1870s the economy began to recover slowly. With the construction of the New York, Texas and Mexican Railway in the early 1880s the county became an important shipping point for cattle.

In 1881 Count Joseph Telfener, representing the railroad, approached the businessmen of Texana for a $30,000 bonus to construct the line through their town. The citizens declined, thinking that a railroad would be detrimental to the existing shipping trade. Telfener therefore selected another route and named one of the main stations on it Edna, after his daughter. A settlement developed around the station, and soon Edna grew into a town. Meanwhile, large numbers of Texana residents moved to Edna; in January 1883 county voters chose by a margin of 272 to 17 to make Edna the county seat. Within two years Texana had become a virtual ghost town.

The coming of the railroad brought new growth to Jackson County. Like Edna, Ganado, the county's second largest town, also grew up on the New York, Texas and Mexican. Railways also brought an influx of Scandinavians from northern states.

The decade of the 1920s was a prosperous period in Jackson County's history, as farmers enjoyed high commodity prices, easy credit, and relative financial stability. The period also witnessed civic improvements. Roads were paved and straightened, new bridges were built, utilities were introduced and expanded in the towns. The first schools in the county began operating before the Civil War. In the early 1980s Jackson County had three school districts, with seven elementary, two middle, and three high schools. The first church in the county, the Texana Methodist Church,

was organized in 1838.

(Courtesy of the Texas State Historical Commission’s Handbook of Texas)