Lori with singer-songwriter Arkey Juenke, owner of Arkey Blue’s Silver Dollar Saloon in Bandera. Photo courtesy Lori Moffatt
This issue marks the 44th anniversary of the travel magazine of Texas. It’s also the last issue for Senior Editor Lori Moffatt, who is retiring after an esteemed 27 years with the publication. As a staff, we’re going to miss her irreplaceable knowledge of Texas’ history and culture, insightful edits and sharp eye for details, but even more so the passion and vitality she’s brought to these pages and the office over the years. Before her departure, I asked her to share some of her insights with the readers she’s served so well for more than 300 issues.
What advice would you give to people traveling Texas?
LM: I think it’s smart to do your research in advance and have a rough idea of things you want to do and see, but to allow plenty of flexibility. Ask the waiter, the bellhop, the person behind you in line, “What restaurant do you go to on your lunch hour?” “Where do you take your friends who come to visit?” It’s so fun, and you’ll probably discover some great spots that may be under the radar of most travelers.
You’re leaving behind quite a legacy. What are you most proud of?
LM: I’m proud to have helped peers become stronger writers as they’ve helped me become a better editor, and vice versa. I’m proud that I’ve helped steer Texas Highways into the multifaceted brand it is today. And I’m really proud to think of all the memories we’ve helped readers make with their friends, family, and loved ones.
Outgoing Senior Editor Lori Moffatt’s summer bucket list pick is Balmorhea State Park. Photo: Will van Overbeek
What are your favorite spots in Texas?
LM: Of the hundreds of pieces I’ve written over the years, certain spots stand out for their beauty and ability to change one’s perspective, including Galveston and Port Aransas (for the ocean that reinforces how small we are), El Paso (for its fascinating xeriscaped yards and blend of cultures), San Antonio (perhaps my favorite city in all of Texas for its vibrant mix of history and modern energy), Palo Duro Canyon (for the surprise of seeing its jagged, unexpected beauty in the midst of all that flatness), the Rio Grande Valley (for many reasons, including tortillas that deserve James Beard awards and the aroma of citrus blooms), and the rather quiet stretch of Texas just south of the Red River (for its gentle hills, wineries, and roads less traveled). I’ve grown to love a long road trip, when the lonely miles lend themselves to introspection and inspiration.
