Del Rio Business Bulletin

30/07/2025

“Way Back When” – A Nostalgic Look at Del Rio, Val Verde County, and Surrounding Communities

Undated photo of the Val Verde County Fairgrounds grandstands during a baseball game. While it’s unclear whether the game was high school, collegiate, or professional, there are long-standing stories that a Major League Baseball exhibition game once took place at the fairgrounds, possibly involving the Pittsburgh Pirates, Cincinnati Reds, or Philadelphia Phillies. We’ve reached out to several local history experts but have not yet received a response. The grandstands are estimated to seat approximately 3,000 spectators.

Anyone with any insight or memories about the baseball games held at the fairgrounds, please feel free to share them in the comments!

(Photo Credit: Warren Studios)

28/07/2025

$3.5 Million Remodel of Del Rio’s Walmart Now Underway

By Del Rio Business Bulletin

The Walmart Supercenter located
at 2410 Dodson Avenue in Del Rio has officially begun a $3.5 million remodel aimed at enhancing the shopping experience for local residents. The renovations which is part of Walmart’s nationwide initiative to modernize hundreds of stores, is expected to be completed by November. The store will remain open throughout the renovation, allowing customers to shop with minimal disruption.

The remodel focuses on improving the store layout, updated technology, and expanding services for both in-store and online shoppers, all while creating a more modern, efficient, and customer-friendly environment. The store’s renovation is expected to further solidify its role in the region’s retail landscape.

What Del Rio shoppers can expect:

-New big bold signage, fixtures, and energy-efficient LED lighting throughout the store
-Expanded merchandise displays for improved product visibility
-A new Grab-and-Go section with quick meal and beverage options
-A Dollar Shop at the entrance featuring seasonally relevant items
-A redesigned Customer Service area for added space and comfort
-A dedicated Mother’s Room offering a private, comfortable space for nursing
-Improved product organization across all departments
-Renovated, modernized restrooms and a refreshed staff break room
-A newly designated parking area for online order pickup
-New rooftop equipment to enhance operational efficiency
-Replacement of exterior sidewalks and pavement surfaces to improve accessibility

(Photo Credit: Walmart and Anthony Rendon)

23/07/2025

Big Air Del Rio Giveaway

🎉 GIVEAWAY TIME! 🎉

As we get closer to opening, we’d love to keep the excitement going with a giveaway — including one lucky family who’ll get to come enjoy the park on us! 🙌

Family 4 Pack includes:
⭐️ Four 1-Hour Jump Passes
🍕 A Large Pizza
🥤 A Soda Pitcher
Perfect for some epic family fun!

To enter:
✅ Like/Follow our page
✅ Share this post (make sure we can see it)
✅ Tag 3 friends in the comments below 👇

Winner will be announced August 4th — don’t miss your chance to jump, eat, and have a blast on us! 🚀

21/07/2025

Laughlin AFB Marks 83 Years of Service, Continuing to Boost Del Rio’s Economy

By Del Rio Business Bulletin

Congratulations to Laughlin Air Force Base on celebrating 83 years of service this month. Having grown into the largest pilot training base in the USAF, Laughlin lives up to its motto “America’s Air Power Starts Here,” shaping the future of military aviation. Here’s to many more years of partnership, progress, and continued economic prosperity.

For over eight decades, Laughlin Air Force Base has stood as a defining pillar of Del Rio, not just as a military installation, but as a major employer, and economic engine contributing over $1.7 billion annually to the Del Rio and Val Verde County economy. Since opening its gates in 1942, Laughlin has helped shape the identity of the community, training thousands of the nation’s finest pilots, a mission that continues to this day.

The bond between Laughlin and Del Rio is not just rooted in geography, but in mutual respect, shared purpose, and generations of collaboration, from supporting the local schools and businesses to partnering on civic initiatives, the presence of Laughlin has elevated the community in ways that extend far beyond the airfield. Many Del Rioans have proudly served at the base or have family members who did. Many more have built lasting friendships with the servicemen and women who call Del Rio home.

As we reflect on the past 83 years, we recognize not only the strength of that history but also the promise of the future. With every takeoff over the Del Rio skies, we are reminded that our community plays a vital role in the defense and readiness of our nation, training the next generation of airmen.

Del Rio remains proud to support the mission of Laughlin Air Force Base, just as Laughlin continues to invest in the heart, spirit, and future of Del Rio and Val Verde County.

(Photo Credits: Laughlin AFB)

18/07/2025

Contour Airlines Eyes Del Rio for Possible Regional Air Service

By Del Rio Business Bulletin

Contour Airlines, a growing regional carrier, is among one of the airlines evaluating Del Rio as a potential site for commercial air service, signaling a possible boost in local connectivity and economic activity. Contour is considering a flight route between Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) and Del Rio, using a 30-seat regional jet.

Del Rio and the region has been without regular commercial air service since 2023, when American Airlines ended flights to Dallas-Fort Worth, due to nationwide pilot shortages and post-pandemic restrictions.

If successful, Contour’s arrival could mark a major milestone in restoring regional connectivity and expanding travel options for both business and leisure travelers in the Middle Rio Grande region.

Contour has code sharing agreements with Alaska, American, Spirit, and United Airlines.

While this is encouraging news, it remains a possibility and not official. Stay tuned for further updates as the airline completes its evaluation process and considers its next steps.

(Courtesy Photos)

14/07/2025

Longtime Eatery Closes, to Make Way for National Car Wash Chain

By Del Rio Business Bulletin

Jitra Thai Cuisine, a beloved restaurant located at 904 E. Gibbs Street in Del Rio, officially closed its doors on July 10 after 31 years of service. Since opening its doors in 1994, the restaurant became a destination for authentic Thai cuisine, earning a loyal following, establishing itself as a staple in the community. Before Jitra, the building was previously home to a Dairy Queen.

The building is set to be demolished, to make way for Del Rio’s second BlueWave Express car wash location. The project marks a shift in the area’s commercial development, with an AutoZone store also planned for a parcel directly across the street from the car wash site. Currently Del Rio’s only BlueWave Express Car Wash is located at 2201 Veterans Blvd, next to IHOP.

As Del Rio continues to grow and evolve, the closure of Jitra marks the end of an era, and the beginning of a new chapter in commercial development along Gibbs Street.

A big thank you to the Rubenacker Family for 31 amazing years of sharing your delicious food and warm hospitality with the community. Wishing you all the very best in this next chapter of your lives.

(Courtesy Photos)

12/07/2025

Courtesy Post:
HTeaO Del Rio Celebrating 2 Years

We can't believe it's been 2 years for HTeaO Del Rio. We are proud to be a part of this community. We started with the well liked Summer-aide and will be bringing the popular flavor back for the 2 days only. Cardenas Funnel Cakes will be selling their famous funnel cakes and fried Oreos in the parking lot both days.

Giveaways and Discounts:

-Free commemorative t-shirts to the 1st 100 customers on Saturday and 1st 50 customers on Sunday.
-Free color changing wristbands both days while supplies last
-1/2 priced gallons and 1/2 priced ice both days.

07/07/2025

Big Air Trampoline and Adventure Park-Del Rio, Texas is Hosting a Job Fair!

-35 Spots Available
-Location: 501 E 6th Street
-Date: Friday, July 11th
-Time: 12pm-5pm
-Positions Hiring: Receptionists, Court Monitors, Cashiers , Party Hosts, Café Attendants

*MUST BE 14+ OF AGE TO APPLY*

What We’re Looking For:
* Open availability – Especially weekends and evenings
* Friendly and outgoing personality – You love talking to people!
* Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-energy setting
* Dependable and punctual — a team player who shows up and works hard
* Comfortable enforcing safety rules while still keeping the vibe fun

Perks:
* Flexible scheduling (within open availability)
* Employee discounts
* Employees incentives
* Fun, team-focused work environment
* On-the-job training – no experience needed!

We want to meet you! Bring a resume & come to our on the spot interviews and join a team where work feels like play.

07/07/2025

New Apartment-Style Extended Stay Lodging Open in Del Rio

By Del Rio Business Bulletin

Del Rio’s hospitality landscape has expanded with the opening of a new apartment-style extended stay lodging, offering visitors additional long-term accommodations. The new development, owned and operated by Ramada Hotel–Del Rio, is called Max Apartments and is located at 117 Miers Drive, nestled between the Ramada Hotel and Domino’s Pizza.

Each unit is designed with comfort and flexibility in mind, featuring fully equipped kitchens, spacious living areas, and modern amenities tailored to traveling professionals, contractors, and families seeking a home-like environment while staying in Del Rio. Apartment guests also have access to Ramada’s hotel amenities, including the pools, playground, hot tub, fitness center, sauna, and more.

Demand in Del Rio for extended stay options has grown in recent years, driven by increased infrastructure projects, military assignments at Laughlin Air Force Base, federal law enforcement activity, and a steady influx of business travelers. This surge does not include the many construction workers and their families expected to arrive in Del Rio for the Amistad Dam remediation project and the Blackcomb pipeline, both slated to begin soon. With its prime location near dining shopping, and major transportation routes, the new apartment-style lodging aims to meet the evolving needs of Del Rio’s diverse visitors and contribute to the city’s continued development as a regional hub.

Max Apartments offers both one-bedroom/one-bathroom and two-bedroom/two-bathroom fully furnished units. For information, contact Del Rio Management at (830) 775-8084.

(Courtesy Photos)

03/07/2025

Job Opportunity:
Big Air Trampoline & Adventure Park- Del Rio, Texas

Now Hiring: Event & Marketing Lead Position Type: Full-Time | 40 Hours/Week | Open Availability Required

Do you have a passion for creating unforgettable events and promoting fun experiences? We’re looking for a driven and enthusiastic Event/Marketing Lead to take charge of planning, promoting, and executing events that keep our park buzzing with excitement!

This is a leadership role perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, has management experience, and is ready to bring creative ideas to life!

Requirements:
* 1+ year of management or team lead experience (hospitality or events preferred)
* Some marketing experience (social media, local outreach, or promotional planning)
* Must be comfortable working in a high-energy, fast-paced environment
* Reliable transportation is required
* Must be willing to work nights and weekends
* Open availability and willingness to work a full 40-hour schedule
* Positive, outgoing personality with excellent communication skills
* Comfortable being hands-on and working alongside team members on the floor

What We Offer:
* Employee discounts
* Employees incentives
* Opportunities for growth within our company
* A fun, energetic, and supportive team culture
* Chance to get creative and make a real impact on local marketing

Ready to lead the fun? Submit your resume and a short cover letter to [email protected]

02/07/2025

Regional News:

Applebee’s and IHOP to Open Dual-Brand Restaurant in Uvalde

By Del Rio Business Bulletin

The Applebee’s restaurant in Uvalde, located at 3060 East Main Street, is in the final phase of a remodel to accommodate a new IHOP, the first dual-brand concept in the Middle Rio Grande region.

Set to open on July 8, the renovated restaurant will offer guests the best of both brands under one roof. The building will feature two distinct dining areas, one for IHOP and one for Applebee’s, allowing customers to enjoy IHOP’s world-famous breakfast offerings or Applebee’s popular lunch and dinner selections, including a full-service bar. This innovative format reflects a growing trend in the restaurant industry, as national brands seek to combine resources, broaden customer appeal, and improve operational efficiency.

For Uvalde, this new concept not only enhances the local dining scene but creates new jobs and contribute to the ongoing economic growth.

Business Details:
Applebee’s | IHOP
3060 E. Main Street
Uvalde, TX
(830) 261-5158

(Courtesy Photos)

30/06/2025

First Tesla Supercharger Station in Del Rio Nears Launch

By Del Rio Business Bulletin

The arrival of Del Rio’s first Tesla Supercharger Station marks a significant milestone in the city’s progress toward cleaner, more sustainable transportation options.

Tentatively set to open next month in the parking lot of Rudy’s Country Store and BBQ at 330 Braddie Drive, the Supercharger Station will offer local Tesla owners and electric vehicle travelers fast, convenient charging at a strategic location. Customers will have access to eight Tesla V4 Superchargers, available 24/7.

The addition of this infrastructure represents more than just a place to power up. It signals Del Rio’s growing role in the broader shift toward renewable energy and a greener future. As electric vehicle adoption continues to rise nationwide, communities like Del Rio that embrace new technologies are positioning themselves as forward-thinking and economically competitive.

For local businesses, the station
may also bring increased traffic
and potential economic benefits,
as drivers often spend time dining, shopping, or exploring nearby attractions while their vehicles charge.

Ultimately, the opening of Del Rio’s first Tesla Supercharger Station is not just good news for EV owners, it’s a positive step forward for the region, helping connect Del Rio with the expanding network of clean transportation infrastructure across Texas and beyond.

For a list of Tesla Supercharger locations, visit Tesla online at:
Supercharger | Tesla

(Courtesy Photos)