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YOUR ENTERTAINMENT & TRAVEL MAGAZINE
HOSPITALITY Spring/Summer Edition 2026
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DAY 1
POKAGON STATE PARK
DAY 2
Steuben County, Indiana offers year-round recreational opportunities. Enjoy a ride down Indiana’s only refrigerated toboggan at Pokagon State Park. The park on Lake James has hiking trails, camping, a nature center, boat rentals, and the 137-room Potawatomi Inn. Find unique shopping in quaint downtowns and at The Outlet Shops at Fremont. End the day at one of Northern Indiana Lakes Country’s hotels. Special hotel and lodging packages are available throughout the year. Pokagon State park, nestled on the shores of Lake James, is a picturesque 1,260-acre park in extreme northeast Indiana complete with beaches, and interpretive nature center, cross country skiing, hiking trails, boat rental and guided horse rides plus the state’s only refrigerated toboggan. Potawatomi Inn offers two restaurants, library, cabin suites, gift shop, and indoor pool. The Trine State Recreation Area is also a part of Pokagon State Park. The 186 acres are steeped in natural and cultural history. Family cabins plus the Wild Turkey Shelter are available to rent. Wild Winds Buffalo Preserve features 400 acres of rolling Indiana prairie, natural waterways, lakes and birds and is home to approximately 250 bison. Tours are available via open-air vehicle. There’s a bed and breakfast and gift shop plus spring and fall rendezvous events.
DAY 3
CARUSO’S RESTAURANT
DAY 4
Everything from fine dining to meals served in historic surroundings can be found in Steuben County. Before your meal, take a ride on a 1940’s era steam locomotive and learn more about its remarkable history and ties to Indiana. A variety of new trips are planned in 2026. 2025. With direct-from-the-manufacturer stores including American Eagle and Under Armor, The Outlet Shops at Fremont offer convenient shopping at discounted prices. In the afternoon, visit award-winning Satek Winery for fun wine tastings. TRINE STATE RECREATION AREA
Several overnight options are available, from campgrounds to hotels to inns.
ANTIQUE SHOPS
Comfort Suites - Portland
Enjoy a Spacious Stay Near Downtown Portland Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, you’ll find Comfort Suites® Portland Southwest gives you plenty of room to relax. Conveniently located off Interstate 5, we’re close to downtown Portland. It’s just a 30-minute drive from Portland International Airport, and less than 15 minutes from our hotel to the Oregon Convention Center and OHSU Hospital. You’ll love that our hotel’s suites offer the conveniences you need, plus the space you want for a relaxing stay.
Comfort Suites - S.W. Portland
11340 S.W. 60th Ave. • Portland, OR 97219 (503) 768-4400 • (877) 768-4401 www.cspdx.com
Ritz
YOUR ENTERTAINMENT & TRAVEL MAGAZINE
HOSPITALITY Spring/Summer Edition 2026
Table of Contents
WEST. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 One-of-a-Kind Oak Harbor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 21st Annual “Cowgirl Up! Art from the Other Half of the West”. . . 8 Touch 100 Years of Aviation History. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Humbolt Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Small Town - World Class Museum!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Welcome To Ontario, Oregon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 MID-WEST. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Leadville Railroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 The Right to Learn: A History of Education in South Texas. . . . . . 20 Buddy Holly Center & Silent Wings Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Discover Clute, Texas: Where Fun Comes to Play!. . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Prairie Edge & Sioux Trading Post. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 SOUTH-SOUTHEAST. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Grissom Air Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Nelson’s Cottages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 St. Joseph & Felicity Plantations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Visit Legendary Maysville. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Explore Harlan County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 MARKETPLACE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Advertisers Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
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HOSPITALITY a Ritz Family Publication
President/CEO Michael Ritz – mikeritz@ritzfamilypublishing.com General Manager Brenda Stoner – brenda@ritzfamilypublishing.com Office Assistant Kyle Heisey – kyle@ritzfamilypublishing.com Sales Dottie Whitten – dottie@ritzfamilypublishing.com Pat Drury – pat@ritzfamilypublishing.com Kimberly Palmer – kim@ritzfamilypublishing.com Graphic Design Julia Rehmke – julia@ritzfamilypublishing.com
Corporate Office Ritz Family Publishing, Inc. 714 N Main Street Meridian, ID 83642 www.ritzfamilypublishing.com Sales For all sales inquiries, call toll free 1-800-330-3482 or 1-208-955-0124 info@ritzfamilypublishing.com Subscriptions For a subscription or to change your mailing address, call toll free: 1-800-330-3482 or 1-208-955-0124 info@ritzfamilypublishing.com Design & Layout By iRockimages.com, Boise, ID Printed By ESP Print + Mail, Boise, ID Copyright© 2024. All rights reserved. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of this publication, however, the publisher does not assume responsibility for omissions or typographical errors. The publisher does not assume responsibility or is liable for the contents of any advertising herein. Publisher’s liability for errors in an advertisement is limited to a correct insertion in the next publication. In the event of a misprint, the publisher must be informed of such error prior to printing of the next publication. Cover Image by James Julius
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WEST
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One-of-a-Kind Oak Harbor You haven’t truly experienced the Pacific Northwest until you’ve visited Oak Harbor on beautiful Whidbey Island in Washington. This hidden gem is accessible by a quick ferry ride or a scenic drive across the iconic Deception Pass Bridge. Oak Harbor is an easy two-hour drive from Se attle or Vancouver, British Columbia, yet it feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of urban living.
Proud home to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, it’s not uncommon to see a pair of EA-18G Growlers or a P-8 Poseidon flying overhead. Oak Harbor also features abundant public waterfront, a vibrant marina, and an impressive collection of public art displayed throughout the community. Visitors can explore a historic downtown filled with charming shops, flavorful restaurants, and comfortable, affordable lodging that makes Oak Harbor an inviting and relaxing vacation destination. If you’re looking for even more places to stay and explore, the many unique communities across Whidbey and nearby Camano Island offer additional discoveries to make your visit unforgettable. The wonders of Oak Harbor extend well beyond shopping and dining. Camping, boating, fishing, crabbing, biking, and hiking provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. And if the island’s natural beauty isn’ t enough, Oak Harbor proudly hosts
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several beloved community events throughout the year. These include Holland Happening, celebrating the town’s heritage on the last weekend of April; a truly old-fashioned 4th of July celebration featuring a parade and fireworks over the water; the Oak Harbor Music Festival on Labor Day Weekend with a diverse lineup of musical artists; and Día de Fiesta, a Hispanic/Latin Heritage Festival held the first Saturday in October. Whether you’re visiting to relax, enjoy the great outdoors and calming waters, or take part in one of our annual events, there’s always something to discover in Oak Harbor on exceptional Whidbey Island. For travel information, please contact the Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce at 360-675-3755 or visit www.oakharborchamber.com.
VISIT ONE-OF-A-KIND
Oak Harbor
ON BEAUTIFUL WHIDBEY ISLAND
Outdoor Adventures Small Town Shopping Local Art
32630 State Rte 20, Oak Harbor, WA 360-675-3755 www.oakharborchamber.com
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21st Annual “Cowgirl Up! Art from the Other Half of the West” Invitational Exhibition and Sale!
-- Fine art by over 55 of the West’s best women artists -Wickenburg, Arizona – Sigler Western Museum (SWM) is proud to host the 21th annual “Cowgirl Up! Ar t from the Other Half of the West ” Invitational Exhibition and Sale. For 21 years, “Cowgirl Up!” has attracted emerging and established women artists from all over the country who depict the Western lifestyle in painting, drawing and sculpture. Each year, more than 300 applicants are reviewed; this year, over 55 were selected as representative of the top women Western fine artists today for one of the largest exhibitions yet. “Cowgirl
ON VIEW THROUGH MAY 31, 2026
21st
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Up!” is much more than an exhibition. It’s a crossroads where artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts come together to explore what it means to be a Western artist. “CU!” artists ride the range of techniques, styles, and mediums, from traditional to contemporary. All of the art is available for purchase, with each sale supporting the endeavors of women artists working today and of the Sigler Western Museum. “CU!” art can be bought throughout the run of the exhibition at the Museum or online at westernmuseum.org. “Cowgirl Up!” truly confirms the Museum’s recently-adopted mission statement: To share the stories, cultures, and experiences of the West. “We’re pleased to be including several new artists again this year, to keep the show fresh and continue to broaden its scope”, says SWM Curator and Deputy Director Mary Ann Igna. Returning this year is the “Western Women of Distinction Luncheon and the Elizabeth Hudson Smith Award”. The fourth annual luncheon is set for Tuesday, April 15th at the Museum and is sponsored by the National Bank of Arizona. This fundraiser will continue to expand the legacy of the Museum’s signature exhibition while celebrating and recognizing accomplished women of the West. It is also meant to inspire other women to further the Western spirit. “L ast year ’s luncheon was such an overwhelming success that we plan to celebrate this new tradition indefinitely. I like the idea of Wickenburg being a national leader in promoting all women of the West,” says SWM Executive Director Dan Finley. We have a public nomination process for the Elizabeth Hudson Smith Award will be available at westernmuseum.org later in January, 2026. In 2006, Sigler Western Museum embraced a revolutionary idea: an annual exhibition
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showcasing the brightest contemporary female artists working in the Western genre. In the male-dominated world of Western art, “Cowgirl Up!” turned the spotlight squarely on women’s voices and perspectives, serving up a new, deeper understanding of the American West. Eighteen years later, “CU!” remains a major national event for Western women artists.
The Sigler Western Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. The Museum is known as “Arizona’s Most Western Museum” and serves 50,000 visitors a year. The Museum preserves and exhibits the art and history of the Southwest and the desert frontier, and is well-known for its innovative exhibitions and programming. Its world-renowned collections of American Western fine art, American Indian art and artifacts, and captivating interactive exhibits together create an unforgettable experience for visitors. The Museum’s entire lower level is devoted to a re-creation of life in Late Territorial Wickenburg. The Museum further enhances the visitor experience by offering a free audio guided tour system for adults and children, in English and Spanish. The Museum also has two stores, The Museum Store and Ranch Dressing. For more information, call 928-684-2272 email info@westernmuseum.org or visit www.westernmuseum.org.
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On The Wild & Scenic Rogue River Meals, Cabins, Kitchen & Sleeping Units Available Year Round
34501 Agness-Illahe Rd. Agness, OR 97406 (541) 247-6162
Your Host, Teri Durham www.singingspringsresort.com
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COPIES PRINTING • FAX 714 North Main P.O. Box 556 Meridian, Idaho 83680 Phone: 208-888-5682 Fax: 208-288-1946 Cell: 283-3567 Email: greg@modernprinters.net
www.modernprinters.net
www.fairlys.com 208.342.7777 800.246.7879 2301 Main St. • Boise, ID 83702
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Touch 100 Years of Aviation History T
here’s an adventure for everyone at Pima Air & Space Museum. Hundreds of thousands visit from all over the world to create lasting memories or relive them. The museum offers endless oppor tunities for discovery with 400 aircraft on 80 acres and 100 years of flight at your fingertips from a Wright Flyer to a 747 Queen of the Skies. Nowhere else in the world can you get this close to such a large, international variety of iconic and rare aircraft including military, commercial, civil, and experimental. There’s 250,000 square feet of indoor exhibits in six hangars, of which three are dedicated to WWII. You’ll come face to face with history’s
finest planes like the SR-71 Blackbird, the first Boeing 777 ever built, the oldest B-52, and the last B-36 ever built. You’ll even get to explore under the wings of rare and solesurviving aircraft like the Budd Conestoga, Columbia XLJ-1, and the Martin Mariner. Pima Air & Space Museum has got something for everyone whether you’re a decorated pilot or have never taken to the skies. Visitors routinely rave that it’s much bigger with more to do than expected and fun for all ages. The museum is in Tucson, Arizona just minutes off the highway at 6000 E. Valencia Rd. It’s open 363 days a year from 9am-5pm. Your adventure begins at www.pimaair.org
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YOUR ENTERTAINMENT & TRAVEL MAGAZINE
HOSPITALITY Maui, Hawaii
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Comfort in the Capital City
The Red lion Hotel Boise Downtowner is conveniently located just blocks from the heart of downtown Boise and the idaho state Capitol. the hotel has easy access to I-84 and is minutes away from Boise Airport, Boise State University, Boise Town Square Mall and the many attractions in and around Boise. • 182 renovated guest rooms including two luxurious one bedroom suites. our rooms feature stay Comfortable® plush pillowtop beds, Refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, hairdryers, irons and ironing boards. • Free high-speed wireless Internet access • Complimentary parking • Complimentary airport shuttle • Coffee Garden restaurant & Characters sports lounge • Red Lion Energy Zone fitness center and seasonal outdoor pool and whirlpool • Room service • Over 8,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space accommodating groups of up to 250 Red Lion Hotel Boise Downtowner 1800 Fairview Avenue • Boise, ID 83702 Phone: 208-344-7691
redlion.com • 800-Red Lion 5539/0511
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Humbolt Museum
E
ver wonder what became of old Winnemucca, the town where brave pioneers sought their fortune and weary cowboys hitched up their steeds after a day on the Nevada range? Those days live on at the Humboldt Museum, along with the Great Depression, the Roaring Twenties, and even the Ice Age. The museum offers a compendium of area history through its many artifacts. Visitors will see a turn-of-the-century soda factory scene, several horseless carriages, a set of bones from a local mammoth, remnants from Chinatown and so much more.
Humb oldt Museum is situated ab ove the California Trail, along the Humboldt River, at 175 Museum Way in Winnemucca, Nevada. Public hours are Monday–Friday 9:00am- 4:00pm & Saturdays 1:0 0pm- 4:0 0pm. The museum is generally self-guided, although docent-guided tours are available. While admission is free, donations are always appreciated. For more information visit www.humboldtmuseum.org or call 775-623-2912
The three acre Humboldt Museum complex consists of four structures open to tours: the former St. Mary the Virgin Episcopal Church built in 1907 (the original home of Humboldt Museum), the 1880’s Greinstein Mercantile Building, the Cumley-Richardson House built in 1899, and the modern two-story brick museum building which houses the bulk of the museum’s exhibits and collections. Visitors will also enjoy plenty of RV parking alongside a shaded interpretive viewing plaza overlooking the Humboldt River Valley.
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Small Town - World Class Museum!
A
re you a history buff? Love transportation history? Just love museums? Boy, do we have the place for you!
The Northwest Carriage Museum is a delight to all visitors, offering an experience devoid of glass walls and velvet ropes! Take a stroll through history, among horse-drawn vehicles and 19th-century artifacts! The craftsmanship and beauty of these vehicles and artifacts are on clear display, and the collection really transports you back to another time!
also grown in renown and reputation. This is due to the love the collection receives from its small team, aiming to keep history alive! Thousands of people each year visit the museum from around the world in awe of the world-class collection situated in the small town of Raymond, Washington. The museum is conveniently located on Highway 101, on the way to popular destinations like Long Beach, WA, Astoria, Oregon, and the Olympic Peninsula! We invite you to “Come Get Carried Away” at the Northwest Carriage Museum. Open 363 days a year with private tours available! Call (360) 942-4150 for more information and to book a tour today!
Open Daily 10-4 (360) 942-4150
The Northwest Carriage Museum’s collection focuses on horse-drawn transportation and related artifacts, with 65 horse-drawn vehicles, plus thousands of 19th-century artifacts, including period clothing, amethyst glass collection, children’s toys, models, saddles, and related pieces! The collection truly has something for everyone, including kids, who leave fascinated by our fun and educational interactive exhibits! If only the vehicles could talk, oh, the stories they’d tell!
Over 60 horse-drawn vehicles & thousands of historical artifacts. nwcarriagemuseum.org Come get Carried Away! Raymond, WA at Highway 101 and State Route 6
Opening its doors in 2002, the museum has not only tripled its original collection of 21 vehicles but
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Welcome To Ontario, Oregon Home of “America’s Global Village Festival”
O
ntario, Oregon is nestled on the lush banks of the Snake River and is proud to be the first Oregon city you encounter when traveling west from the Idaho border. Once you enter the uniquely rugged landscape of the Treasure Valley, you will come to understand why many people never want to leave. Those who choose to live here understand the meaning and importance of a quality, family oriented lifestyle. Thus, the community reflects the energy, distinction, and diversity of its surrounding geography and residents.
And speaking of diversity, this year the Ontario Chamber of Commerce will host the 23rd annual America’s Global Village Festival in Lions Park on June 7th – the first Saturday in June. The festivities begin at 10:00 a.m. with a multicultural parade through the park followed by a flag ceremony. The Festival celebrates the authentic cultural villages of African, Basque, German, Hawaiian, Japanese, Mexican, Pioneer, Scottish and Native American cultures.
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Each village features food, arts and crafts, cultural demonstrations and free youth activities. The main stage will highlight cultural entertainment throughout the day. Upon entering the park for the Festival, visitors will be given a souvenir passport. With each visit to the villages, the passport will be stamped. When children have a full passport, they will receive a free prize.
While Ontario is the kind of laidback town you dream about when you want to get away from the hectic schedule of a busy, big city lifestyle, it also boasts a myriad of recreational activities for all ages, interests and skill levels within driving distance from its downtown area. Here you can enjoy mountain biking, hiking, golfing, camping, sport fishing, bird watching, kayaking, river rafting, horseback riding and much more. Ontario is situated only two hours from four separate ski resorts, including the world renowned Tamarack Ski Resort in Cascade, Idaho. You can not only downhill ski to your heart’s content, but also snowmobile, cross country ski and ice skate as well. There are also 61 acres of lush parks within the city if you’re looking for a place to just relax and enjoy the landscape. Ontario is a town where you will find the people are genuine, authentic, friendly, and down to earth. It is a town with a fascinating history, rich traditions, and a diverse population. It is also a place filled with things to do, places to see, and four distinct and beautiful seasons, so any time you choose to visit will be the perfect time. Visit us on our website at www.ontariochamber.com
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Celebrating 24 years of culture and history at America's Global Village Festival and the 12th annual Highland Games. first Saturday of June Featuring live cultural entertainment throughout the day. For a calendar list of events visit OntarioChamber.com 541-889-8012 I 251 S.W. 9th St., Ontario, Oregon
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MID-WEST
Image by Meg Bell from Pixabay
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Leadville Railroad
History Of The Train
Originating in “the highest incorporated city in North America,” the LC&S takes passengers along the old Denver, South Park & Pacific and Colorado & Southern lines to the Continental Divide. But, as the old adage states, “It’s not the destination, but the journey that’s important.” This journey is full of breath-taking panoramas across the Arkansas River Valley and humorous narratives about Leadville’s colorful past. Mining and railroading were a large part of the local history, and today’s passengers will find it easy to step back in time on the Leadville, Colorado & Southern. So, just sit back and enjoy a trip through our website, then join us this summer to live the REAL life...ride the train! Adventure, relaxation and sightseeing cannot be topped when riding in the Rocky Mountains on board the Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad. This 2 and ½ hour adventure through the untamed wilderness of the San Isabel National Forest is not to be forgotten. Family and friends of all ages have a chance to engage in learning about the historic Leadville, Colorado home to legends like Molly Brown and Horace, Augusta and Baby Doe Tabor, Guggenheims and at one time Doc Holiday.
The Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad travels north along the Arkansas River Valley, it raises up 1,000 feet off the valley floor so that you will have some spectacular views of Freemont Pass and the two tallest peaks in Colorado, Mt. Massive and Mt. Elbert. Also,
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LeadviLLe RaiLRoad
866-386-3936 www.leadvillerailroad.com take time to hear about the fascinating history of the railroads, ghost stories and tales of the wild from the conductor on board the trip. Other highlights include a chance to meet the engineer, take a tour of the caboose and engine. If you come in July and August warm weather exceeds expectations at 75°, it is not surprising to find snow through June and in late September. Although cool, the fall colors are not to be missed with amazing displays of gold, red and orange Aspen trees lighting up the mountain side. Bring a picnic lunch and eat on the train if you wish, but be sure to not forget your cameras and jackets.
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The Right to Learn: A History of Education in South Texas Some of the most impor tant stories in American education began far from the usual centers of attention. They began in South Texas. In this region, the story of schooling is also a story of identity, language, opportunity, and persistence. It was shaped by ranch schools, escuelitas, court battles, community leaders, and families who believed their children deserved more. That history takes center stage in The Right to Learn: A History of Education in South Texas, a major exhibit at the Museum of South Texas History that will remain on view through 2026.
More than a museum exhibit, The Right to Learn offers a vivid look at the forces that helped shape the Rio Grande Valley and, in many ways, the nation. It traces how South
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Texans challenged inequality, built educational pathways, and pushed for change in classrooms, colleges, and public policy. Organized around four themes, the exhibit explores the many dimensions of that journey. T he Right to Par ticipate examines the legal fights that challenged segregation and discrimination in Texas schools. Families and civil rights groups turned to the courts to demand fair access to education, helping reshape the future for Mexican and Mexican American students. The Right to Teach focuses on the early learning spaces that served South Texas before public education reached every community. Ranch schools, religious schools, and escuelitas became essential places of learning, often led by women committed to teaching children in underserved areas. The Right to Belong looks at the growth of higher education in the region and the ways students navigated language, identity, and inclusion as colleges expanded across South Texas. The Right to Lead highlights the legacy of Congressman Rubén Hinojosa, a former escuelita student who became a national advocate for educational access, bilingual education, STEM, and community college opportunity. Artifacts in the exhibit include bilingual teaching tools, a 1930s Edcouch-Elsa High School bell, Pan American College memorabilia, and a recreation of Hinojosa’s congressional office. For visitors from beyond the region, The Right to Learn offers a deeper understanding of South Texas as a place of resilience, leadership, and lasting historical significance.
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BUDDY HOLLY CENTER & SILENT WINGS MUSEUM H
ere in Lubbock, we have two amazing museums that showcase the City’s unique history: The Buddy Holly Center and Silent Wings Museum. The Buddy Holly Center preserves and promotes the legacy of Buddy Holly and the music of West Texas, as well as provides exhibitions on Contemporary Visual Arts and Music, for the purpose of educating and entertaining the public. Exhibitions, tours, concerts, classes, and gallery talks are designed to cultivate an atmosphere where art and music are celebrated. The Buddy Holly Gallery features a permanent exhibit on the life and music of the Lubbock native and West Texas icon. Artifacts include Buddy’s Fender Stratocaster guitar and famed hornrimmed glasses, along with items from his youth and career. The Silent Wings Museum is located in
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Lubbock, adjacent to the Preston Smith International Airport. It’s the only museum in the world dedicated solely to preserving the history of the WWII military glider program. The museum is home to one of the few accurately and completely restored CG-4A gliders left in the world. The exhibits focus on the airborne operations in which gliders were used, the training of the glider pilots, and the technical history of the gliders themselves. The Buddy Holly Center and Silent Wings Museum are open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 5pm, and on Sundays from 1pm to 5pm. Visitors are invited to call or look online for admission prices, special events, and holiday hours. BuddyHollyCenter.org SilentWingsMuseum.com 806-775-3560 • 806-775-3049
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music & Gliders Lubbock offers both.
Keep up with us!
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Discover Clute, Texas: Where Fun Comes to Play! Tucked along the Texas Gulf Coast, Clute is the kind of place that surprises visitors in the best possible way. Sure, we’re home to the world‑famous Great Texas Mosquito Festival—a three‑day summertime celebration packed with live concerts, vendors, carnival rides, a BBQ cookoff, 5K fun, and plenty of small‑town charm. But what many travelers don’t realize is that Clute offers year‑round attractions for families, nature lovers, and curious explorers alike. Start your journey at the Center for the Arts & Sciences, home to a planetarium that brings the night sky to life, a natural science museum filled with prehistoric wonders, and a vibrant concert hall known for live performances and local culture. Whether you’re gazing at constellations or catching a show, it’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon. Nature enthusiasts will find Clute to be a coastal paradise. With beaches just minutes away, visitors can easily enjoy offshore fishing, boating, and sun‑soaked relaxation along the Gulf. And for birders, our location is a dream— Clute sits along major migratory routes, offering excellent opportunities to spot herons, egrets, pelicans, and dozens of seasonal species. Of course, the star of the summer is the legendary Great Texas Mosquito Festival, where our beloved mascot Willie Manchew welcomes guests from all over the globe. It’s quirky, it’s iconic, and it’s pure Clute.
Whether you ’re here for stargazing, beach‑hopping, outdoor adventures, or festival fun, Clute invites you to stay a while—and discover why visitors return again and again. www.goclute.com
Where FUN comes to play!
Home of the World Famous Great Texas Mosquito Festival! Planetarium Museums Golf Courses Birding Sites Sun & Sand Fishing Hotels RV Parks and more!
2026 Coming 2026 Coming Events Events Golden Oldies (60+) - THIRD Tuesday of each month Citywide Easter Egg Hunt - April 2 Water Play Day in the Park - May 9 The Great Texas Mosquito Festival - July 23-25 Community Yard Sale - September 26 Spooktacular Trick or Treat Trail - October 29 Christmas in the Park - December 4 www.clutetexas.gov
44 thth Great 44 Great Texas Texas Mosquito Mosquito Festival Festival July July 23-25, 23-25, 2026 2026 A family event with a host of contests including a BBQ Cookoff, Mosquito Chase 5k, horseshoe, washer and cornhole tournaments, along with vendors, carnival rides and headliner entertainment! www.mosquitofestival.com
B.R. Hester Complex 100 Parkview Drive, Clute, TX 77531 Parks, Recreation, Tourism, Fitness Center & Event Center in one convenient location! 1-800-371-2971 www.goclute.com
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Welcome To Welcome To Deadwood! Deadwood!
It’s a home away from home! Nestled in the Northern part of the beautiful black hills, next to the beautiful Whitewood Creek of South Dakota, we are the place for Deadwood fun! With a new casino added in 2025, summer mini golf, an updated arcade for 2026, and the 75 Lounge & Eatery, we are your headquarters for a Deadwood Vacation. Choose from one of our 69 rooms, including suites or Deluxe Suites, for your stay. We are your headquarters for the Mickelson Trail hiking, biking, walking, and snowmobile trail. Minutes from the Sanford Lab, Local Museums, Rodeo Grounds, ski resorts, Deadwood History, Mt Moriah Cemetery, local shops, and so much more. Your comfort is our goal, Its in the name. Plan now at Comfort Inn & Suites
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Direct access to over 300 miles of groomed trails On-Site Casino with Lounge Group Rates Indoor Pool, Hot Tub, Fitness Center, Business Center, Arcade Room On Deadwood Trolley Route Free Hot Breakfast & WiFi Free Large Onsite Parking Banquet Room seats 160 & Outdoor Picnic Area 605-578-7550 225 Cliff St - Deadwood - SD www.deadwoodcomfortinn.com
For all sales inquiries, call toll free
1-800-330-3482 or 1-208-955-0124 info@ritzfamilypublishing.com
Offering Over 70 Vacation Homes & Cottages to Choose From! Specializing in Costal Maine Vacation Rentals
207-833-7779 — www.mainerentals.com
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Prairie Edge & Sioux Trading Post Some think of us as a Native American art gallery; others see us as an authentic trading post reminiscent of days gone by, but everyone who visits us leaves with the same thing…an experience that lasts forever. Ray Hillenbrand established the Prairie Edge concept in the early 1980s with two primary purposes: • Educate the public about and preserve the heritage and culture of the Northern Plains Indians. • Provide Northern Plains Indian artists an outlet for their finest work (at a fair price to them). Located on the corner of 6th Street and Main in downtown Rapid City, Prairie Edge stands two stories high and stretches out for half a block. The brick, wood, and glass storefront has been restored to its original 19th century glory.
Art of the Lakota & More
Prairie Edge presents the world’s foremost collection of authentic Native American art, crafts, jewelry and culture. The spirit of the Old West and the traditions and mistique of the Plains Indians, are all housed in South Dakota’s premier historic building.
6th & Main
In Downtown Rapid City
Open 7 days a week • 605-342-3086 • www.prairieedge.com
Inside, the hardwood floors and polished cabinetry recall the spirit of the Old West, while the distinct smell of sage and sweetgrass as well as the soft sound of a Lakota flute evoke the mystique of the Great Plains Indian.
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SOUTH-SOUTHEAST
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Grissom Air Museum
T
he Grissom Air Museum was created by 7 volunteers who wanted to tell the stor y about the base and those who ser ved. The base was started d uring WWII as a Bunker Hill Naval Air station. They trained pilots to fly missions protecting our nation. While there were many service members that came through the base, Ted Williams of Baseball fame, got his start here. About 1954, the U.S. Air Force asked to take over the base and changed the name to Bunker Hill Air Force Base. Fast forward to 1968, the base had changed its name to honor a Hoosier native and hero to Grissom Air Force Base after the death of Lt. Col. Virgil I. “Gus” Grissom. The Grissom Air Museum tells the history of the Bunker Hill Naval Air Station and Bunker Hill-Grissom Air Force and Reserve Base. We talk about their stories and the aircraft that flew and maintained while serving on the forward wall. While there were many aircraft that were stationed on base, one such incredible aircraft that served was the B-58 Hustler. This aircraft set multiple records, some of which remain unbroken today. Two such stories tell us about Capt. Manuel “Rocky” Cervantes who died in a Broken Arrow during an alert training exercise. Another
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pilot who died in a training exercise was Maj. Dick Blakslee. Both stories, while tragic, told us about the dedication and passion that they held for our nation. To l e a r n m o r e about these and other service members, visit th e G ris s o m A i r Museum. The Museum opens for the season March 9, 2023. For hours of operation, call the museum at ( 765) 689-8011 or www.grissomairmuseum.com.
At the Grissom Air Museum you can explore historic aircraft from the Cold War era, learn what its like to be called an “airman”, and jump into a cockpit and take off in a static display. While the museum offers many experiences and exhibits, including 28 Aircraft, a B-58 Rocket Sled, Guard Tower, and more, you won’t want to miss the lineup of special events. The Festival of Flight (June 17) kicks off the summer with Remote Controlled planes flying, tethered Hot Air Balloons, other modes of flight and great food.
www.grissomairmuseum.com 1000 W. Hoosier Blvd. Peru, IN
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Nelson’s Cottages Located in the Adirondack Mountains of NY State, where the lakes are very pristine, Nelson’s is only 2 to 3 hours from major airports . We are open from mid-May to mid-October . . . where you can get away from it all . . . in the cottages there are NO PHONES OR TV’s to distract you . During the summer, when the rest of the nation is sweltering in the heat, we enjoy very comfortable temperatures . There are numerous activities for the whole family to enjoy, as I said pristine lakes to swim in, fish from, or boat on . For those without children, fall is a beautiful time to visit, as it is not as busy, but the weather is still great and the beauty of the fall colors (leaves changing) is just unbelievable . There are many things to do up here, which don’t have to cost a dime, like sitting on the beach, reading a book and enjoying the beauty of the lakes and mountains beyond, lots of easy hiking trails, and mountain climbs, sensational sunsets . For those with some money to burn, we have sea plane rides, white water rafting trips, dinner cruises, golf courses with reasonable rates . Come join us at Nelson’s Cottages and enjoy the beauty of the lakes and mountains beyond .
open mid-May to mid-October located in the Adirondack Mountains of NY State Contact Ken and Linda Nelson at:
315 - 357 - 4111 Nelcott@telenet.net P.O. Box 357 Inlet, New York 13360
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Firebird Raceway P.O. Box 1398 • Eagle, ID 83616
208-939-8986 www.firebirdonline.com
P.O. Box 9244 • Boise, ID 83707
www.valleycorvettes.org
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St. Joseph & Felicity Plantations S
t. Joseph and Felicity (sister plantations) are both uniquely located on the same property along the banks of the Mississippi River in Vacherie, LA. “Authentic” best describes these
St. Joseph & Felicity
-Home to several Film and -Two homes, one property. TVprojects. -Annual Creole Mourning Tour. -Original Cabins of the Enslaved. -Family owned since 1877. -Tours offered 7 days/week. -Working Sugarcane Farm.
Call 225-265-4078 to schedule www.StJosephPlantation.com
3535 Hwy. 18 (River Road), Vacherie, LA 70090
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homes-both working sugarcane plantations. Experience rich history and many exhibits sure to give you a glimpse into life on a sugar plantation during a relaxed, intimate, guided tour of either home (or both) and the grounds. Both Felicity and St. Joe have served as the background for several film and TV projects including “Queen Sugar”, “Mudbound”, “Twelve Years a Slave”, “Skeleton Key”, “Underground”, and many more. Both homes were owned by sisters, Josephine and Felicity, daughters of the “Louis the XIV of Louisiana” and reputedly the wealthiest man in the South. St. Joseph was built around 1840 and was eventually purchased by Josephine and her husband, Alexis Ferry using dowry money from her father. Felicity was built in 1850 with dowry money for Josephine’s sister, Felicity, when she married Septime Fortier. St. Joe was purchased in a post-Civil War sheriff’s sale by Joseph Waguespack and has remained in the extended family since. He also purchased Felicity and its 1,200 acre sugar farm in 1899 and combined it with St. Joseph in 1901 to create the St. Joseph Planting and Manufacturing Co. Ltd. Up until Summer of 2022, Felicity has been closed to the public. The Waguespack family is thrilled to now share the history of the home with visitors. Tours are available seven days a week and reservations can be made by calling 225-265-4078.
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Visit Legendary Maysville N
estled along the Ohio River, Maysville, Kentucky, is where history meets hospitalit y and adventure awaits. Conveniently located just an hour from Cincinnati, Ohio, or Lexington, Kentucky, this charming riverfront town offers a blend of past and present, inviting visitors to explore its storied streets, vibrant arts scene, and outdoor adventure. M aysville b oas t s t wo historic districts, each offering a unique glimpse into the past. Just four miles from downtown, Historic Old Washington transports visitors to the late 1700s, when the area was a thriving frontier settlement. Founded in 1786 by Simon Kenton, Old Washington is home to authentic log cabins, elegant Federal and Georgian-style homes, and fascinating museums that chronicle Kentucky’s earliest days. Seasonal walking tours of these historic homes and log cabins are available at the visitor center located at 2028 Old Main Street. Back downtown, the streets of Maysville are lined with stunning 19th-century architecture. Stroll past the grand Russell Theatre, where Rosemary Clooney’s first film premiered, or experience a live show at the Washington Opera House, one of the oldest operating theaters in the country and home to the Maysville Players, Kentucky’s
oldest theatrical group. The Cox Building, beautifully restored to its former grandeur, stands as a testament to the city’s history, alongside preserved churches, charming storefronts, and civic buildings that make Maysville a dream destination for history lovers and photographers alike.
No visit to Maysville is complete without a taste of Kentucky’s legendary spirit. At Old Pogue Distiller y overlooking the Ohio River, you’ll learn about bourbon’s earliest beginnings while enjoying a sip of one of the oldest bourbons still poured in Kentucky. Downtown at the The Old Pogue Experience, visitors can learn more about the history, craftsmanship, and deep family legacy that define this local treasure.
the hospitality and flavors that make this region special. Whether you’re indulging in southern comfort food or trying a dish unique to Maysville, every bite tells a story. F o r th o s e s e e k in g o u td o o r adventure , Maysville of fer s breathtaking natural beauty. E xplore rolling hills, picturesque trails, and the mighty Ohio River, which provides endless opportunities for kayaking, f i s hin g , an d b o a t in g . Whether you’re hiking, paddling along serene water ways , or simply soaking in a stunning sunset over the river, Maysville is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Uncover all that Maysville has to of fer. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, enjoying incredible dinin g , o r e mb rac in g outdoor adventures, Maysville promises a journey you’ll never forget. Star t your legendar y journey today.
Beyond bourbon, Maysville’s culinary scene is one to savor. From upscale dining to cozy local eateries, every meal here reflects
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Explore Harlan County In the mountains of Harlan County, Kentucky, you will find much to explore from our land, lakes and mountains. The main industry for Harlan County from the early 1900’s has been coal mining. At Portal 31 Underground Coal Mine, (www.portal31minetour. org) you can take a trip back in time on a real mine car and explore the history of coal mining. From there you can take a short trip up KY 160 and view the vistas of Kentucky’s highest peak - Black Mountain - at 4,145 ft. from the road side lookout. For a more in depth look at coal mining, visit the Kentucky Coal Museum in Benham.
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The adventurous ones will want to visit the Black Mountain Thunder Zip Line in Evarts that is sure to give a thrill as does off-roading at the adjacent four wheeler park. Outdoor lovers will be amazed at Martins Fork Lake, Pine Mountain Settlement School and Kingdom Come State Park. Stay in a local hotel or overnight rental, eat at one of our favorite local restaurants and shop at one of our many quaint retail shops! For these adventures and many more, visit www.harlancountytrails.com
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plore x e from
TOP to BOTTOM
STAND ON KENTUCKY ’S HIGHEST PEAKS KENTUCKY’S PEAKS,, GO UNDERGROUND ON A MINE TOUR TOUR,, RECONNECT WITH NATURE NATURE,, ZIP LINE THROUGH MOUNTAIN CANOPIES CANOPIES,, OR CLIMB MOUNTAINS BY ATV -573-4156 ATV!! CALL 606 606-573-4156 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE BELOW TO START PLANNING YOUR ADVENTURE ADVENTURE!!
harlancountytourism.com harlancountytourism.com www.ritzfamilypublishing.com
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A
t Antelope Canyon, you see up close just how talented the hands of nature really are. Hundreds of years of water has washed and carved through these caves, giving them a mystical quality and inspiring the Navajo to name them a sacred site. Fortunately, for the lovers of geology and beautiful landscapes, they also make a great destination for you. The Upper Antelope reaches a 4,000 feet elevation and walls stretch up 120 feet above the stream bed. This popular slot canyon is located in the heart of the LeChee Chapter of the Navajo Nation and has become a popular destination for sightseers, geology and history lovers and for photographers, hoping to capture some of the area’s natural beauty. It’s a Navajo Tribal Park, accessible by permit only since 1997, ensuring that the pristine beauty of this place remains intact. No climbing is required to get to the canyon’s entrance and the entire length of the canyon is at ground level. Sunlight radiates down from the openings at the top of the canyon, giving photographers and sightseers alike beams or shafts of light to enhance the aura of the place. These are year-round occurrences, but the summer months bring more of them due to the position of the sun in sky during this season. Come experience the canyon in one of our exclusive guided tours - It’s the only way you can and should see the canyon. Aside from gaining intimate insight into the canyon, our guides keep you safe and dry and help you avoid some of the seasonal pitfalls of the canyon tours. This canyon enjoys the distinction of being the most-visited and most-photographed slot canyon in the Southwest. It lies on Navajo land, near Page, Arizona. Come enjoy the two separate photogenic sections in the Upper Canyon — or the Crack and in the Lower Antelope Canyon — the Corkscrew. The adventure of a lifetime awaits you! Antelope Canyon Navajo Tours, Dalvin Etsitty, P.O. Box 4586, Page, AZ, (928) 698-3384, www.navajotours.com
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Antelope Canyon Navajo Tours
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MARKETPLACE ACCOMMODATIONS
MUSEUMS
Bridgeway Inn & Suites
Rosemount Museum
2323 N.E. 181st Ave. Gresham, OR 97015
(503) 492-4000
Contl. Breakfast • Hi-Speed Internet Indoor Pool & Spa • Exercise Room Guest Laundry • Business Center
419 W. 14th St. • Pueblo, CO 81003
Built Between 1891-1893 Visit One Of The Best Examples Of The Victorian Era.
Museum Open Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Closed Sundays, Mondays, Major Holidays & All January
(719) 545-5290
Lee Acres RV Park
Pull-thrus & Back-ins • $45.00 Nightly Weekly/Monthly Rates Available • Full Hookups Next Door To Sun Ray Park & Casino and McGee Park
63 CR 5500, Farmington, NM
(505) 320-3014
accommodations Candlewood Suites Cheyenne
2335 Tura Pkwy., Cheyenne, Wy 82001 1-307-634-6622 • www.candlewoodsuites.com Fitness Room • Board Room • WiFi • Cable/ Satellite • Free Laundry • Full Size Kitchens Queen Beds • Pets w/Deposit • Non-Smoking
DINING
Breakfast Breakfast Lunch Lunch Dinner Dinner Daily Daily Specials Specials Winter Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. AT GRE & DT FGOROEAD LY N IEOD &E RO FF VIC DLY SERN FRIE VICE SER
Winter Hours: 7:00 Summer 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 10:00p.m. p.m. Summer Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
208-527-9944 440208-527-9944 South Front Street • Arco, Idaho 440 South Front Street • Arco, Idaho
OTHER
St. Ignatius Jesuit Mission Historic Site 58 Frescos – Museum Open Daily 9-5 St. Ignatius, MT
(406) 745-2768
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ADVERTISERS INDEX
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Antelope Canyon Navajo Tours www.navajotours.com www.bestwestern.com Best Western Plus Spokane Bridgeway Inn & Suites www.buddyhollycenter.org Buddy Holly Center Candlewood Suites - Cheyenne www.candlewoodsuites.com www.goclute.com Clute Visitors Bureau Comfort Inn & Suites Deadwood www.deadwoodcomfortinn.com www.cspdx.com Comfort Suites Portland www.dickinsonmusuem.com Dickinson Museum Center www.fairlys.com Fairly Reliable Bob’s www.visitgck.com Finney County CVB www.firebirdonline.com Firebird Raceway www.grissomairmuseum.com Grissom Air Museum www.harlancountytrails.com Harlan County Tourism www.humboldtmuseum.org Humboldt Museum www.leadvillerailroad.com Leadville Railroad Lee Acres RV Park www.visitmaysville.com Maysville-Mason County CVB www.modernprinters.net Modern Printers www.prisonmuseum.org Museum of Colorado Prisons www.mosthistor.org Museum of South TX History Nelson’s Cottages www. nwcarriagemuseum.org Northwest Carriage Museum www.oakharborchamber.com Oak Harbor Chamber Ontario Chamber of Commerce www.ontariochamber.com www.picklesplacerestaurant.com Pickles Place www.pimaair.org Pima Air & Space Museum www.prairieedge.com Prairie Edge www.redlion.com Red Lion Hotel Boise www.rosemount.org Rosemount Museum www.westernmuseum.org Sigler Western Museum www.singingspringsresort.com Singing Springs Resort St. Ignatius Mission www.stjosephplantation.com St. Joseph Plantation Steuben County Tourism Bureau www.lakes101.org www.valleycorvetts.org Valley Corvettes www.mainerentals.com Your Island Connections
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Back Cover Image by Urvish Oza
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