The Karnes County Lonesome Dove Fest set for September 17-18 is expected to continue its 17-year reign as one of the largest family-oriented events of its kind in Texas while coming to the benefit of hundreds of area youngsters and community charities.

The event attracts approximately 8,000 dove hunters and their families, who participate in shooting competitions, learn about the outdoors from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department displays, and enjoy festival food selections.

On a more serious note, the festival, created in 1992 to celebrate the opening of the South Zone mourning and white-winged dove season, has helped the Karnes City Rotary Club award college scholarships to graduating seniors from all four Karnes County high schools.

In addition, funds raised during the annual event have purchased Jaws of Life equipment for local emergency workers, constructed little league fields, promoted shooting sports for area youngsters, and even provided Christmas gifts to needy area children.