March 2007 Issue

The widely acclaimed real estate market north and west of Del Rio is generously attributed to a soaring number of nationally televised fishing tournaments, but there are other factors recognized by those in the business. Nevertheless, the impacts on the local economy are undeniable, and some realtors warn of too much of a good thing in Lake Amistad can’t support the increased pressure.

The Caverns of Sonora are unique because of their location above the Edwards-Trinity aquifer, yet winding through the deep limestone crust that covers the entire region. These conditions have allowed a surprising abundance of spectacular shapes and types of formations to grow in the Caverns, more so than in other caves on display throughout the country. The Caverns of Sonora are truly a unique treasure to this area, and are designated a National Natural Landmark.

Newcomers to Del Rio see the hustle and bustle of pilot training at Laughlin Air Force Base, and may wonder, “So what was it before the Air Force built these airfields?” Here is the story of the Marshalls, a tightly-knit family of ranchers who still remember, but no longer harbor the resentment of having their home wrenched away by a federal judge. At the same time, it’s a patriotic family that never fought the condemnation of their home and business. Today, a Blue Star American War Mothers Flag hangs in a window of the family home in south Del Rio, remembering a family service member recently returned from two tours in Iraq.

Amistad Marine & Tackle owners Jim and Gail Criswell have moved to a larger, more attractive location and spanking new building, another sign of entrepreneurial confidence in the intensifying record of fishing tournament achievements on Lake Amistad. Criswell addresses his reasoning for the impressive business expansion, as well as a few frustrations along the way.

Byron Velvick is one of this country’s top bass fishermen, and like many others who have joined him in a migration to the communities surrounding Lake Amistad, he intends to capitalize on his reputation and the lake’s assets to carve a new economic niche here. Velvick and partner Michael Bonnee are hosts at an emerging resort in an old lodge about six miles north of Del Rio, and their plans for the place are as big as the heavy, trophy-winning bags of fish on national circuits of tournament competitors.

The process of incorporating a new high school into the Eagle Pass ISD was no easy task. Everything from selecting school colors to deciding which teachers and administrators would stay at each high school was very time-consuming.

Americans planning to buy land for business, agriculture or residential living in Mexico are urged to consider title insurance to protect the safety of their investment. In this area, Stewart Title Guarantee offers title insurance in Mexico through their business in Eagle Pass and through Southwest Abstract in Del Rio.