05 06 14 countyline

county line UPPER EAST SIDE OF TEXAS

www.countylinemagazine.com

MAY/JUNE 2014

M A G A Z I N E

PAT GREEN

Summer Concert & Festival Season Little Big Town. Justin Moore.

Randy Rogers. Mariano Dugatkin.

Charlie Daniels. Casey Donahew.

Oak Ridge Boys. Ray Wylie Hubbard.

Stratoblasters. Mouse & The Traps.

Roger Creager. Tracy Lawrence.

JB and the Moonshine Band.

Vanilla Ice. More!

Complimentary Copy to subscribe see page 5

Farmers Markets. Poetry Winners. texas shakespeare festival. lake fork. Paul Michael.

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Live Music. Promotions. Food. Wine. Art. May - September. Rockwall Farmers’ Market Saturdays 8 a.m. to Noon

25+ Vendors. Seafood. Eggs. Organic Produce. Preserves. More fine dining, coffee house, tea room, winery, mediterranean, more

972.772.6400 www.Rockwall.com/MainStreet 2 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

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Enjoy Farmers’ Markets in the Upper East Side of Texas SOME OPEN YEAR ROUND. CHECK WEBSITES FOR DAYS AND TIMES AND INDIVIDUAL MARKET AND FARM OFFERINGS.

ATHENS www.ATXFM.com

EDOM www.BlueberryHillFarms.com

Longview www.HistoricLongviewFarmersMarket.com MINEOLA www.MineolaMainStreet.com PARIS www.ParisTexas.com

NACOGDOCHES www.NacogdochesFarmersMarket.com ROCKWALL www.Rockwall.com/MainStreet

Sulphur Springs www.SulphurSpringsFarmersMarket.com

TYLER. www.TylerFarmersMarket.org

MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 3 Winnsboro www.WinnsboroFarmersMarket.com

CONTENTS FEATURES

8 Pat Green Kicks Off Summer Concert and Festival Season in the Upper East Side of Texas Pat Green brings his upbeat energy to the Toyota Texas Bass Classic in May, talks about his career, and home.

By Tom. Geddie

10 Live Music Fills the Air This Summer

From Red Dirt and classic country to rock to dance to symphonies, festivals and other events this summer offer a wide variety of live music.

31

20 Farmers, Markets, and Festivals Bring Food and Fun to Guests Coordinators bring not only the quality produce people have come to know and enjoy in the region, but an experience that includes music, workshops, and a fun activities.

28 Poetry Winners

Presenting County Line Magazine’s Upper East Side of Texas 2014 winning poetry entries from poets in fourth grade through adults.

DEPARTMENTS 5

Editor’s Note. Letters.

6 ACROSS THE COUNTY LINE

Leadercast Tyler, Red River Army Depot, Veteran and Military Growth Initiative, Diploma Mill Scams.

Music

10

10 Little Big Town Keeps the Party Rolling 16 Kilgore Main Street Starts Fridays After 5 Series 18 Music Notes, Events. Miranda Lambert.

Kacey Musgraves. John Ritter Tribute Showcase.

Songwriting Competition.

CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

22 News. Events. Texas State Railroad. Salute to Armed Forces. East Texas Arboretum. Museum of East Texas Culture. Palestine. Cinco de Mayo. Turtle Pilgrimage.

Frontier Days. First Monday Trade Days. Air Show. Bass Tournament. Boat Show. Dairy Festival. Ice Cream.

26

The Arts

24 Fiber Arts. Texarkana. Indian Culture. Architectural Aesthetic Exhibit. Far Out Art Fest. Diversity. Art Tour.

25 Groups Enjoy Painting by Erin

By Tamara Stokes

On Stage

26 Picnic. Wayne Brady. Cheaper by the Dozen. Adrian Peterson’s Comedy Tour. The White Lions. Harvey.

26 Texas Shakespeare Festival Gears Up for Season

film

27 Tyler Film Festival. Revolution TV Filming.

LITERARY SCENE

30 Review by Edward H. Garcia: Cedar Crossing by Mark Busby 30 East Texas Authors Take Part in Book Review Event

SEE WEBSITE EXTRAS! www.CountyLineMagazine.com 4 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

20

fl&

county line Since 2000

MAGAZINE

Publisher & managing Editor P.A. Geddie

administration Lori Easley PR & Marketing Leah Lynch Amber Hollis Contributors Patti Light Jeremy Light Tom Geddie Edward H. Garcia Elizabeth Branca Jan Adamson

EDITOR’S NOTE Dear Readers, When we set out to put a list together of the live music taking place in the Upper East Side of Texas this summer we had no idea there would be so many concerts and such an array of talent. From Pat Green featured in this issue to Little Big Town, crazy fun bands like Vince Vance & the Valiants, beautiful symphonies, there’s just an incredible spread and really, every single weekend you can find a fantastic show.

Also not to be missed during this season are the farmers markets that grow more fun and fabulous each year. Some have live music, pottery demonstrations, all kinds of baked goods, and honey, and culinary workshops, the list is endless. I

love our little veggie stands in the region but it sure is nice to have events that celebrate our bounty every weekend all over the region.

These lists are extensive and tedious to gather so we’re sure we’ve missed a few.

Please do let us know if you’ve found a great venue or event that we don’t have listed here so we can spread the word.

I hope you enjoy our poetry winners this year. It was so very hard to choose from hundreds of good entries — many will run in future issues so keep an eye out for yours if you don’t see it here.

So much to enjoy!

P.A. Geddie Publisher & Managing Editor

Tamara Stokes

sales P.A. Geddie

CONTENTS continued

DISTRIBUTION Pam Boyd Bombyk David Michelina County Line Magazine is published once a month, 12 months a year. It is available free of charge in the Northeast Texas area in select businesses, limited to one copy per reader. Subscription costs: $18 per year in Texas, and $22 per year outside Texas. Bulk rate postage paid at Ben Wheeler, Texas. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to County Line Magazine, P.O. Box 608, Ben Wheeler, TX 75754. Contents COPYRIGHT 2014 County Line all rights reserved. Material may not be reproduced without written permission. Opinions expressed in articles appearing in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Ben Wheeler, TX 75754 Phone: 903.963.8306. E-mail: info@countylinemagazine.com Website: www.countylinemagazine.com.

Free listings are entered on a space available basis. Advertising space may be purchased by calling 903.963.8306.

Let us hear from you.

Please feel free to send us your comments.

County Line Magazine P.O. Box 608, Ben Wheeler, TX 75754 email: info@countylinemagazine.com Find us on Facebook and Twitter.

Go to LETTERS on www.countylinemagazine.com.

34 PLAY & stay

31 Lake Fork Offers a Variety of Things To Do in the Summer

By Jan Adamson

Food & drink

32 Review: The Back Porch in Kilgore

By Patti Light

Serving the Upper East Side of Texas

33 Rocket Fizz Takes Guests Down Memory Lane

By Jeremy Light Cover photo of Pat Green

by Sugar Hill Records

LIVING ROOM

34 Wilhite Landscape Hosts Spring Photography Contest.

36 Paul Michael Company Expands Home Decor Experience

By P.A. Geddie

FEEL GOOD: Making a Difference 38 Children’s Advocacy, Pegasus Project, Cherokee County Scholarship Fund, Back to School Bonanza, Adopt-A-School Program

MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 5

ACROSS THE COUNTY LINE Leadercast Tyler Tickets Available for May 9 Event

Tickets are on sale for the May 9 Leadercast Tyler event, a simulcast of the “Beyond You” one-day leadership event broadcast live from Atlanta.

The Tyler event is at the GABC Crosswalk Conference Center. Tickets are $75 per person for Tyler Chamber of Commerce and/or Leadership Tyler members, and

$80 per person for non-members.

Groups of eight or more can get tickets for $70 per person, and can get a reserved table for $81.25 per person.

Leadercast exists to positively change the way the world thinks about leadership.

With thousands attending, Atlanta is the central hub of Leadercast Live. The events happening on stage at the Gwin-

nett Center are broadcast to hundreds of locations around the world.

This year’s theme, “Beyond You,” challenges leaders to leverage their influence for the sake of others.

JUNEbilee

Speakers include leadership communicator and best-selling author Andy Stanley; award-winning journalist and best-selling author Malcolm Gladwell; Nobel Laureate and human rights activist Archbishop Desmond Tutu; screenwriter, director, producer and songwriter Randall Wallace; CEO of SAP AG Bill McDermott; former advertising sales executive and best-selling author Laura Schroff; clinical psychologist and leadership consultant Dr. Henry Cloud; leadership expert and best-selling author Simon Sinek; former First Lady Laura Bush; and Leadercast co-hosts Cat Deeley and Tripp Crosby.

Friday & Saturday

Registration begins at 7 a.m. and the program concludes at 3:30 p.m. For details, contact Henry Bell at 903.592.1018 or Colleen Colby at 903.535.9242.

Mineola Summer June 6 & 7 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Mineola Civic Center RV Park

Two Fun-Filled Days!

Food • Fun • Vendors Mineola’s Got Talent Contest Motorcycle Display and Poker Run Carnival Free concerts Friday and Saturday nights. (bring blankets and lawn chairs)

Local Committee Hoping To Help Save Army Depot

Red River Army Depot’s future stability is at risk, and a local committee is urging the community to take an active role to help save the defense complex.

The Texarkana Chamber of Commerce held a press conference in late March to discuss the current status of RRAD and the defense complex. As part of the discussion, members of the Military Affairs Action Committee presented efforts currently underway to save and increase the complex’s workload and outline ways community members can help support the Save RRAD effort.

Over the last five years, Red River Army Depot and the affiliated defense complex has seen a steady decline in employment trends, and the drawdown in war zones means further decreases in workload.

903-569-2087 www.MineolaChamber.org Gate entrance fee $1 per person, children under 10 years old are free when accompanied by paying parent.

6 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

Actions on the national front including sequestration, continuing resolutions, defense downsizing and threat of Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) all loom large and are causing added concern. Drastic changes in the depot’s work-

force would affect not only the livelihood of the complex’s current employees, but also the local economy as a whole.

To date, the military affairs committee has raised more than $500,000 from businesses, industries and local governments.

The committee is now asking for help from individuals to make a pledge or donation to help continue efforts to lobby in support of maintaining a healthy workforce at Red River Army Depot and the local defense complex.

To find out more go to www.SaveRedRiverArmyDepot.com.

Tyler Leaders Endorse Initiative For Veterans

The Tyler City Council recently endorsed the Veteran and Military Growth Initiative to create sustainable opportunities for Veterans and their families to thrive in East Texas.

On March 17, 2011, the city of Tyler, under the leadership of Mayor Barbara Bass, chartered the Veterans & Community Roundtable. Three years later, the Roundtable engages more than 150 individuals and organizations that serve Veterans, Guard/Reserve and military families in East Texas. Members focus on five key Veteran and military transition issues: employment, education, housing, healthcare and financial/legal services.

In May 2013, members of the Mayor’s Roundtable and the Chamber’s Veterans Committee began the development of a Veterans Strategic Plan to compliment Tyler’s existing IGI and Tyler 1st Plans. A small committee researched the potential, using the focus group information from the recent IGI and Tyler 1st as a barometer of wide public sentiment. They engaged chamber members, government agencies, businesses, members of the Veterans & Community Roundtable, the chamber’s Veterans Committee and local citizens to solicit their suggestions.

The result of the committee’s efforts was a 42-page community and economic development plan, the Veteran and Military Growth Initiative (VMGI). The VMGI outlines more than 40 strategies and tactics for veteran-focused community growth, making a strong case for how implementation will bring fresh dollars into Tyler/Smith County and cement Tyler’s reputation as the “capital of East Texas.”

Since Jan. 6, the VMGI has received endorsements from the Veterans and Community Roundtable, the Chamber’s Veterans Committee and Tyler’s Leadership Roundtable.

There are approximately 16,000 Veterans in Smith County who bring an estimated $189 million annually to the region in VA benefits, disability pensions and medical care. Some goals of the VMGI include attracting veteran-owned small businesses, creating a Veteran training academy focused on trades, expanding the VA clinic, developing Tyler Pounds Regional Airport as a Veteran business/aviation campus, welcoming more Veteran retirees and becoming “America’s most Veteranfriendly community.”

2014

BBB Warns Consumers About Diploma Mill Scams The Better Business Bureau (BBB) warns consumers against online programs which offer fast and easy high school diplomas or college degrees.

As many people struggle to find a job, earning a diploma or an advanced degree is one way to stand out from the crowd, but unless the educational institution is certified and legitimate, the degree obtained won’t be worth the paper it was printed on.

According to a survey conducted by the Sloan Consortium and Babson Survey Research Group, the number of students who were enrolled in at least one online course surpassed 7.1 million in 2013, which makes up more than 33 percent of higher education students. Unfortunately, not all institutions offering online diplomas or degrees are legitimate and individuals looking to get ahead are being duped by diploma mills.

Colleges and universities accredited by legitimate organizations undergo a rigorous review of the quality of their educational programs. The same is true of high schools. Although many diploma mills claim to be “accredited,” their accreditation is from a bogus, but official-sounding agency that they created.

For more information on how to be a savvy consumer, go to bbb.org. To report fraud or unscrupulous business activity, please call the BBB Hotline: 903.581.8373.

903.885.5614 • 888.300.6623 tourism@SulphurSpringsTX.org

www.VisitSulphurSpringsTX.org

MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 7 MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 7

Pat Green Kicks Off Summer Concert and Festival Season in the Upper East Side of Texas

By Tom Geddie Life is good for three-time Grammy nominee Pat Green, an icon of the third generation of Texas countryrockers who considers himself both hardworking and lucky, and who’s got a new album, Home, coming out sometime this summer featuring duets with Sheryl Crow and Lyle Lovett.

He does about 90 shows a year, including the Friday night headlining gig at the Toyota Texas Bass Classic May 9-11 at Lake Fork near Quitman; it will be his third gig at the sprawling, worldwide known event. He has a nice sideline business — real estate development and construction — and a wife, Kori, and two children in Fort Worth.

He has a little bit of leisure time, including hunting for deer and fishing for largemouth bass in the Tyler area with Clay Cavender and other members of the family that owns Cavender’s Boot City.

It would be easy — incomplete, but realistic — to believe that Willie Nelson and Jerry Jeff Walker started what’s become the sound now labeled Texas/Red Dirt, to believe that Robert Earl Keen — who headlined an earlier bass classic show at Lake Fork — guided the sound in new directions, and that Green shifted it again. He pays tribute to his own roots the way many of the younger musicians credit his influence.

The essence of a Pat Green show is “loud, sometimes a little sloppy, but fun,” he said. “That’s all I want to do – not the sloppy part, but I’ll mess something up sometimes. We have fun.

“I don’t get to play the little tiny bars anymore, but I still have a very healthy following and I look forward to the rest of my life doing the shows,” he said. “I have the luxury of a 20-year-long career, and don’t have to worry anymore. I like to play for big crowds, and I’m happy as long as the place is full.”

Music aside, Green’s success is built on sound business principles rather than just “playing a bunch of gigs.”

8 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

Pat Green headlines at the Toyota Texas Bass Classic May 9 at Lake Fork. Courtesy photo.

“Our business model is pretty simple. I try to treat the music like a business and like an art at the same time,” he said.

“That’s why we’ve had such a long run.

Right now, I’m trying to continually diversify my life, make opportunities happen in and outside the music industry and see how it goes.”

The essence of the art side of the business model is good songs whether they are his own creations or songs he covers, Green said.

“Telling the truth is always the savior for the songwriter. It’s difficult to write accurately, or to sound like you’re writing accurately when you’re not using your own perspective. If I try to write from anybody else’s perspective, almost without fail that song doesn’t make it onto the record.”

“I definitely try to write good songs. I’m not ever going to sit down and write something half assed or that I don’t think is clever. I’m not putting anything out that I think is mediocre,” he said. “I really feel like my job, if I do it correctly, is to focus as clearly as I can while I’m writing the song. The rest of it just kinda takes care of itself — the performance and the live audience. I’ve always put on what I thought was an exciting show, at least worth watching — somewhat humorous and not too preachy.”

The formula has led to 10 studio albums — one of them certified gold — and 15 songs on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts.

Honoring his own influences includes two albums, Songs We Wish We’d Written vol-

umes one (2001, with Cory Morrow) and two (2012) that feature songs by Waylon Jennings, Darrell Scott, John Prine, Steven Fromholz, Townes Van Zandt, Billy Joe Shaver, Merle Haggard, Lyle Lovett, Tom Petty, Shelby Lynne, Jon Randall, Collective Soul, and more including Aaron Lee Tasjan’s quirky “Streets Of Galilee” and Todd Snider’s “I Am Too,” which introduced both Tasjan and Snider to more mainstream audiences.

“Those were fun records to make,” he said. “Truthfully, my band and I usually pick the songs around a pitcher of beer and two hours of hanging around.

We all just sat around discussing and if somebody’s idea would sound better than my idea, I’d get fixated on it.

I would very much encourage them to bring an idea. For instance, the Walt Wilkins song ‘If It Weren’t For You,’ that was somebody else’s idea completely. There were all kinds of ideas going around from Genesis and Peter Gabriel, Colin Hay from Men at Work — all kinds of crazy stuff from the ‘80s.

Of course, we ended up with Petty from 1979.”

Green grew up in China Spring, near Waco. His grandparents are from Mount Vernon and he has an aunt from Tyler, and he recorded five songs from the 2012 tribute album in Tyler.

He performs — generally to sold-out audiences — about once a year in Tyler and Nacogdoches and from time to time in other Northeast Texas venues.

He turned 42 in April.

for nationwide impact,” he said. “Radio needs a little more commercial sound.

When Willie had his hits on the radio, he was fitting in with the sound of the times. So was Johnny Cash, and all the other guys. I wish we could be a little more acoustic, but we go with the times.

The goal is always the same: get it on radio and have an impact. Eventually the well goes dry because you’re not the hot new thing anymore, and you’ve gotta have new places to go.”

“I’m not trying to prove anything to anybody,” he said. “I’m trying like every other man I’ve ever met to provide a living for my family, and I’ve found the job for me that allows me to enjoy myself, my family, and my time. That means something to me — to be so lucky to find a career that is so pleasing to my life. A lot of people go through life with lots of talent — be it in acting or painting or whatever — and for whatever reason they end up putting mufflers on cars or diminishing their existence a little bit. I lucked out.”

As a third-wave leader, though, Green maintains his independent attitude.

TEXAS

SIZED ENTERTAINMENT MAY 9–11, 2014

LAKE FORK

ToyotaTexasBassClassic.com

PAT GREEN LITTLE BIG TOWN JUSTIN MOORE

What’s important to him is “being home, man,” he said, “after years of spending 175-250 days a year on the road.

“Once you get that marriage part nailed down, the rest is all kinda easy, not a struggle. Once I found Kori and started appreciating the notion of being a husband and father, it’s much easier,” he said. “I don’t drink as much as I used, to, or party. I don’t see the point to that anymore. I kinda got burned out staying up until five in the morning and sleeping all day. That changes when you start having babies and get past the age of 30.”

$

15

in advance

25

$

Tickets available at local

at the gate

Plus Tax, Includes Parking

17 and under get in FREE with ticketed adult

Call 1.866.907.0143 ToyotaTexasBassClassic.com

The “doughboy” look of a few years ago is gone, so that he looks more like a modern country star.

“It’s difficult these days if you are going MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 9

Live Music Fills the Air This Summer Event coordinators and venues have some great music lined up for those living and visiting in the Upper East Side of Texas this summer. From Red Dirt and classic country to rock to folk to symphonies, there’s something to please everyone.

Toyota Texas Bass Classic One of the biggest events of the season is the return of the Toyota Texas Bass Classic in Lake Fork May 9-11. The Sabine River Authority in Quitman hosts this world-class bass fishing tournament and outdoor country music festival.

Besides the tournament, a kids zone, and other entertainment throughout the day, the big stage features country

super stars, Pat Green, Little Big Town, and Justin Moore.

event’s entertainment is Justin Moore on Sunday. In addition to the headlining entertainment artists, the TTBC also features a variety of regional bands, including Tyler and the Tribe, Southern Slang, Backroad Anthem, and Sister C.

“The anticipation and excitement for the Toyota Texas Bass Classic is off the charts this year. TTBC will be bringing premiere country music artists, as well as the world’s best anglers to Lake Fork.

We hope to break records on and off the water” said Tournament Director Lenny Francoeur. “Not only do we have family friendly ticket prices, but the sale of tickets will help us in our ongoing effort to support the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.”

Single day, general admission tickets are available for $15 in advance (or $25 at the gate). That ticket includes parking and kids 17 and under get in free with a ticketed adult. Tickets are available now at toyotatexasbassclassic. com, local Toyota dealerships, Academy Sports + Outdoors, and Brookshire’s.

Pat Green will kick off Friday’s country music concert and Little Big Town takes the stage Saturday. Rounding out the

For additional information, visit www. toyotatexasbassclassic.com or call 1-866907-0143.

Little Big Town Keeps the Party Rolling May 10 Critically acclaimed country group, Little Big Town takes the Toyota Texas Bass Classic stage Saturday May 10. The band — consisting of members Karen Fairchild, Phillip Sweet, Kimberly Schlapman and Jimi Westbrook- — first entered the music scene over 13 years ago with hits such as “Boondocks,” “Bring It On Home,” “Good As Gone” and Grammynominated single “Little White Church.”

The quartet’s fifth studio album Tornado was released in 2012 and hit singles “Pontoon” and “Tornado.” The Grammy-nominated track, “Your Side of the Bed” and current single “Sober” are also featured on the album.

Photo by Becky flute

10 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

Collectively, the group has earned more than 25 award show nominations and has taken home the award for ACM Top New Vocal Group, CMA Single of the Year (“Pontoon”), CMA Vocal Group of the Year (2012 and 2013), ACM Vocal Group of the Year, ACM Video of the Year (“Tornado”), a Grammy Award for Best Country Group/Duo Performance (“Pontoon”) and an Emmy award (Outstanding Original Song —“Good Afternoon”). The foursome recently wrapped up their sold-out headlining tour and are also on tour with Keith Urban.

Little Big Town is currently working on a new album, which is expected for release later this year. The first single off of the new record entitled “Day Drinking” should hit country radio in late spring.

Herman’s Hermits Return

The Old Firehouse in Edom

Peter Noone performs with Herman’s Hermits May 2 at the Corsicana Palace Theatre. At the age of 15, Noone achieved international fame as “Herman” lead singer of the legendary sixties pop band Herman’s Hermits. Ultimately, Herman’s Hermits sold more than 60 million recordings. In all, 14 singles and seven albums went gold.

The Hermits were twice named Cashbox’s Entertainer of the Year. Call 903.874.7792 or visit www.corsicanapalace.com for more information.

John Batdorf performs May 17 at The Old Firehouse in Edom. Hailing from the seventies, Batdorf has continued to write and sing his heartfelt songs for over four decades. As one half of the group Batdorf and Rodney, he is experiencing a comeback through house concerts, civic events, and recognition of his albums old and new. His recent solo album One Last Wish returns to his friendly, warm brand of singing stories. At times confessional, at others flowing with emotion, Batdorf’s songs cover the shared human experience.

7:30 p.m. $12 advance / $15 door. The Old Firehouse in Edom. 8241 FM 279, Downtown, 903-852-2781. www.theoldfirehouse.net.

Longview Museum of Fine Arts

Justin Moore performs May 11 at the Toyota Texas Bass Classic at Lake Fork. For a second consecutive time, Moore debuted at #1 on the Billboard Country Albums Chart and #2 on the all-genre chart with Off the Beaten Path. The project has already produced Justin’s fourth #1, “Point At You,” and current Top 25-and-rising single “Lettin’ The Night Roll,” which has sold over 120,000 downloads. Combined with his previous gold-certified albums — Justin Moore and Outlaws Like Me — Moore has sold over 5.3 million digital downloads. While his music has been featured on the ABC hit drama Nashville, Hannity & Colmes and NFL Rewind, he has been profiled by publications such as The Washington Post, People Country, Billboard and USA Today. Justin is currently headlining the Off the Beaten Path Tour with special guests Randy Houser and Josh Thompson.

Courtesy photo.

Athens Old Fiddlers Reunion

Brian Martin performs at the Longview Museum of Fine Arts May 16. Interweaving old-time country blues and mountain folk music with southern soul, funk and gospel, Martin seamlessly creates a style that he refers to as “front porch soul.” Tickets are $20 online or $25 at the door. Visit www.lmfa.org or call 903.753.8103.

Thought to be the oldest fiddlers contest going on for more than 80 years now, the Athens Old Fiddlers Reunion is scheduled for May 31 this year on the courthouse square in Athens. A jam session takes place on the square the night before and a street dance takes place Saturday after the contest. Concession stands and a carnival continued page 13

Surrender to passion

with music from Argentina

presents

Mariano Dugatkin Master of the Bandoneon

Performing authentic tangos by Astor Piazzolla with the Orchard Ensemble

Liberty Theater, Tyler Friday, May 9, 7:30 p.m.

Headlining the first Red Dirt BBQ and Music Festival May 3 in downtown Tyler is the Randy Rogers Band. Randy Rogers (lead vocals), Geoffrey Hill (guitar), Jon Richardson (bass guitar), Brady Black (fiddle), and Les Lawless (drums) have recorded four studio albums and two live albums, and have charted seven singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts. Courtesy photo.

Mount Vernon Music Hall Saturday, May 10, 7:30 p.m.

903.563.3780 www.mountvernonmusic.org MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 11

12 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

LIVE MUSIC continued from page 11 are also going on from 9 a.m. to midnight.

For more information visit www.athensfiddlers.com or call 903.675.1859.

Rockwall Founders Festival

Mineola Summer JUNEbilee Mineola’s former May Days celebration is now a summer JUNEbilee promising two fun-filled days June 6 and 7 at the Mineola Civic Center RV Park. Free concerts are scheduled for both nights with local bands and guests are invited to bring blankets and lawn chairs. Go to www.mineolachamber.org or call 903.569.2087 for more information.

Russian Romantics Show

Rockwall celebrates it’s 160th birthday this year with a festival May 17 in Harry Myers Park. Headlining is the Charlie Daniels Band. Other shows feature Treeside, Cole Risner, Burning Sky, and David Whiteman. For more information visit www.rockwallfoundersday.com or call 972.771.7761.

The Longview Symphony performs Russian Romantics June 7 at S.E. Belcher Center in Longview with guest conductor, emeritus Tonu Kalam. At this season finale, Maestro Kalam will conduct a program of Russian Masterworks that is sure to please the ear of music lovers young and old. With a full orchestra Maestro Kalam will demonstrate his artistic podium skills in this program of thrilling compositions. For more information call 903.233.3080 and visit www. belchercenter.com.

Maestro Tonu Kalam returns with the Longview Symphony June 7. Photo by Susan W. Rogers

40th Annual Salt Festival JB and the Moonshine Band are the headliners at the 40th Annual Salt Festival taking place June 12-14 in Grand Saline. The East Texas-born group has tunes atop the Billboard Texas music charts and they’ve recorded and released two acclaimed albums—Ain’t continued page 14

Pops in the Park Concert The East Texas Symphonic Band performs May 22 at the Teague Park Amphitheatre in Longview. The concert is free and guests are invited to bring lawn chairs and blankets. For more information call 903.738.9442 and visit www.etsymphonicband.com.

A Sock Hop With a Twist Vince Vance & the Valiants, billed as the “Worlds’ Best Party Band,” rocks the house at A Sock Hop with a Twist May 31 at Harvey Hall in Tyler.

Vince Vance & the Valiants began in 1971 and they’ve performed more than 6,000 shows in 13 countries and 34 states including two shows at the White House.

The band has recorded 22 singles and 11 albums with number one hits including All I want for Christmas is You. The event features a car show and a dance contest to set a world record for twist dancing. Tickets range from $10 to $100 and proceeds benefit the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary and Sharon Shrine-Shriner’s Hospital. Call 903.881.9733 or visit www.josefelcianofoundation.org for more information.

f

Party band Vince Vance & the Valieants are set to perform at A Sock Hop with a Twist May 31 at Harvey Hall in Tyler.

MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 13

LIVE MUSIC continued from page 13 Goin’ Back to Jail and the current Beer for Breakfast on the Average Joes Entertainment label. They are rapidly gaining many fans from all over the country.

They play Saturday night after opener Matt Fisher.

The festival also celebrates the Morton Salt girl’s 100th birthday this year, there’s a gospel concert on Thursday, and Clay Thrash performs Friday night.

Visit saltfest.net or call 903.330.7815 for more information.

Symphony at the GMA Music Director Jaap van Zweden returns to Greenville June 20 with stirring selections personally chosen for this special performance, Maestro’s Moments with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Call 903.457.2994 or visit www.showtimeatthegma.com for more information.

June Bug Music Festival The June Bug Music Festival takes place June 21 in Ben Wheeler along with an art fair both Saturday and Sunday with an art car parade and juried art show.

Ray Wylie Hubbard, Damn Quails, Oil Boom, and Stefan Cotter and the Rastabillys perform. Visit www.benwheelertx. com or call 903.833.5970.

Ray Wylie Hubbard is in Ben Wheeler June 21.

The event includes live music, a movie, fireworks and food.

Emceed by John Wilson of Bowley & Wilson fame, the music line up includes Wesley Pruitt, Heather Little, Craig Wallace, Travis Bolt, Chase McClanahan, Blacktop Gypsy, Stratoblasters, Jimmy Wallace, Jerry Don Branch, and Mouse & The Traps.

For more information call 903.833.1070 and visit www.benwheelertx.com.

Great Texas Balloon Race

Brooks Gremmels July 4 In memory of the late Brooks Gremmels, a community of musicians, family, and friends are coming together to present six hours of free family fun on four stages in downtown Ben Wheeler.

Roger Creager performs August 1 and Tracy Lawrence August 2 at the Great Texas Balloon Race in Longview which

JB and the Moonshine Band are the headliners at the 40th Annual Salt Festival taking place June 12-14 in Grand Saline.

14 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014 14 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

attracts the very best competitive pilots from across the United States and the world. Balloon flights begin on Tuesday morning, July 29, with a flight over Longview and continue each morning through Sunday over Kilgore, Longview and East Texas Regional Airport.

Launch and landing sites change each day as they are always determined by wind and the weather.

Balloon Glows on Friday and Saturday night entertain crowds with an awesome display of color and excitement and Kids Land is a safe restricted area for children. For more information see www.visitlongviewtexas.com.

Country Music Hall of Fame

Casey Donahew Band and Vanilla Ice in Gun Barrel City

This year’s July Fest concert in Gun Barrel City takes place July 5 at the amphitheater in the city park. The Casey Donahew Band and Vanilla Ice perform along with several other shows including a Battle of the Bands. For more information visit info@gunbarrelcity.net or call 903.887.6666.

ing are Clay Cooper, Becky Hobbs, Tim Watson, Leona Williams, Ron Williams, Jan Howard, Linda Davis, Holly Tucker, Jake Penrod, Billy Jo Russell and others.

On Sunday there will be a Gospel Show with special guests at the Hall of Fame.

Call 903.693.6634 for tickets and visit www.carthagetexas.com.

Jawbone at the Perot The Texas Country Music Hall of Fame in Carthage presents three days of music-filled fun August 8-10. On Friday they’ll host the John Ritter Tribute Showcase Talent Competition at the Carthage Civic Center. On Saturday at the center is a show and induction ceremony. This year, the Oak Ridge Boys are being inducted. Also appear-

Dance band Jawbone plays at the Perot Theater in Texarkana August 23 covering a variety of music from Black Eyed Peas, Maroon 5, Adele, Prince, Elton John, and Madonna to name a few.

The band formed in Texarkana and includes Lisa Childress, vocals; Meko Radomski, drums/vocals; Paul Whitt, keys/vocals; Randall Lee, bass/vocals,

Urban Cowboys Mickey Gilley and Johnny Lee Perform

Johnny Lee & The Urban Cowboys perform at Moore’s Store in Ben Wheeler May 2. Tickets are $20 on-line or $25 at the door. Visit www.mooresstore.com or call 903.833.5100.

Johnny Lee also performs with Mickey Gilley June 27 in Greenville as part of the Urban Cowboy Reunion Tour.

Gilley has enjoyed 17 number one hits on the country charts. His cover song “Stand by Me” reached number five on

the adult contemporary charts. Gilley is a six-time Academy of Country Music Award recipient and has enjoyed several additional number one songs including, “True Love Ways,” “A Headache Tomorrow (Or a Heartache Tonight),” “You Don’t Know Me” and “Lonely Nights.”

In 1968, Lee began a 10-year working relationship with Mickey Gilley, both on the road and in Gilley’s nightclub in Pasadena. In 1980, Lee performed in “Urban Cowboy,” for which he recorded several songs used in the soundtrack. “Lookin’ for Love,” from that soundtrack, became Lee’s first gold record. The song spent three weeks at the top of the Billboard Country Music Singles Charts as a number one hit, and number two on the Billboard Pop Music Singles Charts.

Ticket prices are $35-$56. For more information visit www.showtimeatthegma.com.

and Sean Womack, guitar/vocals. Call 903.792.4992 or visit www.trahc.org for more information.

Ongoing Music in Town Many of the communities in the Upper East Side of Texas have music happening on an ongoing basis in their downtowns and other areas.

MINEOLA Mineola has a gathering of musicians every Saturday beginning at 11 a.m. at the Johnson Street gazebo, in Peterson Park, and elsewhere throughout the downtown area Musicians are invited to bring their acoustic instruments including fiddles, guitars, dobros, banjos, stand up bass, dulcimers, autoharps, mandolins and harmonicas to join or create song circles. Players and listeners alike should bring their own chairs. For more information call 903.569.2087.

MARSHALL In Marshall, Boogie Woogie Wednesday presents great performers every Wednesday from 7-9 p.m. at the OS2 Pub on the courthouse square including The Jive Jumpers, Bobbie Oliver, Robin & The Mystics and Airheart. Marshall groups host music gatherings several nights a week and on second Saturdays there’s an outdoor festival hosted

by Marshall Main Street with arts, crafts, vendors, a car show, and live music.

There’s more information and a great history of boogie woogie music in the area on www.boogiewoogiemarshall. com. For more, call 903.935.4414 and visit www.marshalltexas.net/departments/main-street. continued page 16 MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 15

Kilgore Main Street Starts Fridays After 5 Series

LIVE MUSIC continued from page 15 BEN WHEELER Ben Wheeler has live music every Thursday through Saturday on at least two stages and often more. It’s an open airy walk-friendly town with two award-winning restaurants — both serving cocktails, beer and wine — several art and other shops, an ice cream and motorcycle shop, and more. Call 903.833.1070 and visit www.benwheelertx.com for more information.

Nouveaux Cajun Xpress kicks off the 2014 Fridays After 5 concert series May 2 in Kilgore’s World’s Richest Acre Park.

Four evenings of entertainment are on tap for this year’s Fridays After 5 concert series held once a month May through August.

Stevie Ray Vaughan, Gretchen Wilson, Buddy Guy, Orinthia and local band The Darby Warren Project. The band’s website is www.allyvenable.com.

The 2014 concert series hosted by Kilgore Main Street Office will run monthly, typically from 8-10 p.m. at the World’s Richest Acre Park.

The July 25 concert features The Bluebirds from 8-10 p.m. and includes a street dance. The Bluebirds are a six- or seven-piece blues/soul/dance band.

Dirty Redd on trumpet and Omenka on sax along with Ben Kitterlin on drums are the core unit. Jason Coffied is first call guitarist and Julieann Banks is the female vocalist and also plays bass for the Van Morrison Tribute featuring Bruce Flett. The players and singers may change, but the blues/roots/R&B keeps the dance floor packed. One might compare The Bluebirds to other perennial favorites like Roomful of Blues, Fabulous Thunderbirds or Louisiana’s LeRoux. The band’s website is www.thebluebirds.com.

The 2014 lineup begins 8-10 p.m. May 2 with Nouveaux Cajun Xpress, four former members of the popular Cajun band Tout Les Soir. Butch Landry, Butch Golsan, John Ortis and Clyde Thompson have played music together for more than a decade. After recruiting versatile Cajun accordion player Wallace Trahan, their first goal was to create a new kind of Cajun/Louisiana music sound. Although they bill themselves as a Cajun band, Nouveaux Cajun Xpress is much more than that. They perform many genres of music including zydeco, Louisiana swamp pop, blues and even some old school rock and roll.

The band website is www.nouveauxcajunxpress.com.

On June 6 two bands are set to perform from 8-10 p.m. — Dazed and Ally Venable Band. Dazed is a young classic rock band from East Texas that includes Lance Hampton (lead guitar and vocals), Caleb Cannon (bass guitar and vocals), and Drew Theiring (drums and vocals). These young musicians are called the band with “young hearts and old souls.” The band’s Facebook page is located at www.facebook.com/ dazedtheband. Ally Venable is a young local guitarist and vocalist with an amazing voice and a big sound. Her favorite styles of music include blues and country music and her major influences are 16 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

On August 15 Daniel Foster and Levi Kitchen perform from 9 p.m-midnight for the “back-to-school party.” Daniel Foster has a unique style of music, traditional country with a hint of early gospel exposure. Foster also covers many classic country tunes as well as originals.

Learn more at www.facebook.com/danielfostermusic. Levi Kitchen, minister of music at Kilgore’s Cornerstone Fellowship, is a singer/songwriter who has been performing and recording music most of his life. Kitchen plays a broad range of styles from hard/progressive rock to acoustic blues/jazz. Find more online at www.levikitchenmusic.com.

All concerts are free to the public and family friendly. For more information call 903.984.5081 and visit www. cityofkilgore.com/mainstreet.

SULPHUR SPRINGS Sulphur Springs has a thriving downtown area with live music often happening Thursday through Saturday during markets and in adjacent venues.

Celebration Market is a “mini festival” taking place most Saturdays from 6-10 p.m. where farmers sell produce and other vendors offer arts, crafts, handmade soaps, baked and canned goods.

Food vendors offer a variety of choices including Mexican street tacos, Salvadoran pupusas, gorditas, shrimp tacos, cotton candy and funnel cakes. Kids love the lighted, interactive water fountain and people come from all around to see one of the only see-through restrooms in the world. The plaza includes the award-winning Hopkins County vintage courthouse and a stunning veterans memorial. Festivals, concerts, and other events are held regularly on the downtown square. For more information call 903.885.5614 and go to www. visitsulphurspringstx.org.

ROCKWALL Throughout the summer free music takes place at the Concert By The Lake series in The Harbors on beautiful Lake Ray Hubbard every Thursday.

This year’s line up includes a variety of mostly tribute bands: James Wages (Elvis), Buster Brown Band (Soul variety), Warehouse (Dave Matthews), Professor D (funk, R&B variety), Escape (Journey), Razzmatazz (80s & 90s Pop), Sgt. Peppers Lonely Bluegrass Band (Beatles), J.D. Monson (Country and Rock), Thunder Road (Bruce Springsteen), Incognito (Rock), With or Without U2 (U2), and Metal Shop (80s Rock).

Rockwall has numerous restaurants offering live music weekly. Visit www.rockwall.com/parks/livemusic/calendar. asp for more information.

www.VisitEdom.com

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The shed cafe

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’s Lamb PINKS ANTIQUES & uniques Antiques. Plants. Yard Art. Much More Little Pink Shop next to The Shed Cafe

903.852.7820

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Potters Brown Studio & Gallery

Jewelry Studio Custom Orders Welcome

TRINITY PINES RETREAT & WEDDING VENUE

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SHOP. DINE. STAY. MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 17

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music notes New Miranda Lambert Album Set to Release

Miranda Lambert will release her new album, Platinum, on June 3. The title is not only a song on the project, but also represents a way of life for Miranda.

“Platinum is my hair color, and my wedding ring, and the color of my Airstream and the name of one of my favorite beers,” she said. “It’s about a lifestyle.”

Lambert wrote eight of the album’s 16 tracks and describes it as a one complete photograph. “All 16 songs together make up a picture, and without one of those songs, it just looks like abstract art,” she said. “I wanted it to be perfect; I wanted it to matter.

“There’s humor on this album, and nostalgia, and it’s feminine,” she continued. “There’s girl power, not in the ‘I’m gonna burn your house down and kill you, but more where I am as a 30year-old woman and wife. I’m more settled in life, embracing the good and the bad, and that’s all reflected on Platinum. I still blaze around – but in a less chaotic way.”

Friday, May 2 Nouveaux Cajun Xpress 8 p.m. - 10

Friday, June 6 Dazed and Ally Venable Band 8 p.m. -10 Friday, July 25 Street Dance Street Dance The Bluebirds 8 p.m. - 10

Downtown Kilgore

Free family-friendly concerts

Friday, August 15 Back to to School Back School Party Party Daniel Foster and Levi Kitchen 9 p.m. - 12

www.cityofkilgore.com/mainstreet 18 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

Check out www.countylinemagazine.com for extended MUSIC news and event listings.

Songwriting Competition Offers Three Cash Prizes

The fifth annual Ruby Allmond Songwriting Contest is open to the public with a deadline for song submissions on June 15.

The contest performance takes place August 2 at 7 p.m. in the Bailey Inglish Auditorium, 201 E. 10th St., Bonham.

First prize receives $300, second prize takes home $200 and third prize wins $100. The first place winner also receives some recording time in the new music studio at Texas A&M University at Commerce.

Entry forms are available at www.rubyallmond.com. To enter, please send the following: One entry form for each song (no more than two songs), a typed or clearly printed copy of the lyrics and a compact disc or cassette recording of the original song(s).

opportunity to participate in the 20142015 Texas Country Music Hall of Fame “Texas Tour.”

The overall winner will receive a grand prize package that includes an invitation to perform on the Hall of Fame Saturday night “Induction Show,” personal appearance representing the Hall of Fame at shows and festivals, radio interviews, promotional picture package, recording session studio time, makeover and wardrobe allowance, and a featured position on the 2014-2015 Texas Country Music Hall of Fame “Texas Tour.”

Registration forms are available at www. carthagetexas.com/halloffame/showcase.htm.

Musgraves, Perry To Film ‘CMT Crossroads’ Concert

Send the entry form and required materials to Ruby Allmond Songwriting Contest, P. O. Box 507, Bonham, TX 75418.

Entries must be submitted or postmarked no later than June 15.

For more information, call 903.583.4651 or 903.886.5463, or visit the website at www.rubyallmond.com.

The contest and performance show are presented by The Special Collections of Texas A&M University at Commerce.

Carthage Hosts John Ritter Tribute Showcase June 28

An amateur song contest takes place at the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame in Carthage on June 28 with tryouts for the 17th annual John Ritter Tribute Showcase.

The event begins with registration from 9 a.m.-noon. Contestants must provide their own back-up music, and must perform traditional country style or classic country music.

Finalists will be chosen to perform before a celebrity panel of judges on August 8 at the John Ritter Tribute Showcase.

First, second, third and fourth place runners-up will receive trophies and the

The “CMT Crossroads” concert series that pairs country acts with artists outside their genre celebrates its 50th episode on June 13 with Kacey Musgraves and Katy Perry, airing 9 p.m. CDT on CMT. The intimate performance will tape in Los Angeles this month, and for the first time will air on CMT’s sister Viacom networks VH1, MTV, MTV Hits and Palladia at later dates to be announced soon.

“From the moment I heard ‘Merry Go Round’ by Kacey Musgraves, I knew we were cut from the same songwriter’s cloth,” Perry told Billboard in a statement. “I have been a fan and a friend of hers from the beginning, always championing her prolific songs every opportunity I get. To me, Kacey Musgraves is an artist that should be a household name because she offers a unique perspective with her writing style.

“It’s going to be a blast to play on each other’s songs this Crossroads. It will be a preview to our Prismatic World Tour road trip this summer which I can’t wait for,” Perry added.

Musgraves adds in a statement, “I’ve been such a huge fan of Katy and her vision since I found out about her.

And since she’s found out about me she’s been an amazing light and friend to me. So, joining forces with her for Crossroads is going to be incredible.

“In some ways we’re on opposite ends of the spectrum, but in a lot of ways our music makes total sense together. Her songs, while having grit, are so fun and it’ll be a cool challenge to throw a little country on ‘em. I love her brain and her heart and I can’t wait for our two musical worlds to collide,” Musgraves said.

Pickers and audience welcome. Bring instruments and chairs. Indoors in bad weather.

11 a.m. Free. Johnson St. Gazebo. 1.800.MINEOLA. www.mineola.com.

Bluesman Craig Wallace. Ben Wheeler. 3 - 6 p.m. Free. The Forge, FM 279. 903-833-5970. www.benwheelertx.com.

May 1

Josh Abbott Band. Nacogdoches. 8 p.m.

Banita Creek Hall. www.banitacreekhall.com

May 2 – 3

NE Texas Choral Society. Sulphur Springs.

Civic Center. www.visitsulphurspringstx.org.

May 3

Ronnie Milsap. Nacogdoches. 8 p.m. Banita Creek Hall. 401 W. Main. banitacreekhall.com.

Bluesman Craig Wallace. Ben Wheeler. 3 - 6 p.m. Free. The Forge, FM 279. 903-833-5970. www.benwheelertx.com.

May 1

Josh Abbott Band. Nacogdoches. 8 p.m.

Banita Creek Hall. 401 W. Main. www.banitacreekhall.com

May 2 – 3

NE Texas Choral Society. Sulphur Springs.

Civic Center. www.visitsulphurspringstx.org.

May 3

Ronnie Milsap. Nacogdoches. 8 p.m. Banita Creek Hall. 401 W. Main. www.banitacreekhall. com

May 8

Brett Elredge. Nacogdoches. 21 & Up; $17.

Banita Creek Hall, 401 W Main St. (936) 4628000. www.banitacreekhall.com.

May 17

Bing Futch. Deb Porter Opening.

Winnsboro. Futch will also offer two dulcimer workshops. Concert: 7:30 p.m. $10-$15. The Bowery Stage. Winnsboro Center for the Arts. 903.342.6140. www.winnsborocenterforthearts.com.

May 22 – June 8

Kerrville Folk Festival. Kerrville. Songwriting contests, crafts, music, professional development programs, special projects at the Threadgill Theater, campfire singing and so much more. Quiet Valley Ranch, 3876 Medina Hwy. (830) 257-3600. www.kerrstaff.org.

June 14

Paul’s Journey in Concert. Athens. Concessions are available. 6 – 9 p.m. $15 general admission, $18 reserved seating Texas Gospel Music Hall, 6513 Hwy 19 South. 903.677.2492. http://athenstx.org/things-to-do/christian-grouppauls-journey-comes-to-athens

mORE MUSIC! Every Tuesday

Pickin’ and Grinnin’. Edom. 6 - 8 p.m. Free.

The Shed Cafe, 8337 FM 279. 903-852-7791. www.theshedcafe.com.

Every Wednesday

Boogie Woogie Wednesday. Marshall. Live music. 7 - 9 p.m. Free admission. OS2 Pub. 105 E. Houston. 903-938-8966. www.facebook. com/birthplaceofboogiewoogie.

Every Thursday – Friday

Live Music. Tyler. Stanley’s Famous Pit Bar-BQue. 525 S. Beckham Ave. 903.593.0311. www. stanleysfamous.com.

Every Thursday – Saturday

Live Singer/Songwriters. Ben Wheeler. The Forge. Hwy 279. 903.833.5970. www.benwheelertx.com.

Every Friday – Saturday

Live Bands. Ben Wheeler. Moore’s Store. Hwy. 279. 903.833.5100. www.benwheelertx.com.

Every Saturday

Acoustic Music on the Streets. Mineola.

MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 19

Farmers, Markets and Festivals Bring Food and Fun to Guests Saturdays, Through October Over the past few years the terms “culinary tourism,” “gastronomads,” and “farm to table” are heard often in the Upper East Side of Texas as people continue to embrace the need for fresh produce for better nutrition and tastier food.

Farmers, city leaders, and volunteers are working together to bring not just great produce to guests, but an experience.

These markets and festivals often have live music, sell wine, baked breads, honey, flowers, cheeses, have demonstrations and workshops, pottery and pasta-making, culinary sampling, and more in addition to the quality produce the region is known for like peaches, blueberries, blackberries, squash, tomatoes, okra, peas, onions, and more.

Many are held in historic downtown areas where the experience is enhanced by retail shopping, restaurants, and activities for kids and adults alike.

Larger festivals with produce themes keep a variety of activities going with contests and sometimes carnivals, street dances, and more.

Here are a few markets and festivals to visit this summer:

Year Round

Full Quiver Farms. Kemp. Tuesday-Friday 9-5, Saturday 9-Noon. Full working farm with a store offering milk, cheeses and spreads, yogurt, eggs, grass-fed beef and more. 6238 FM 3396. www.fullquiverfarmstexas.com.

The Waldo Way Dairy Farm. Mineola. Milk, yogurt, cream, butter, and artisan cheese. 395 CR 2482. 903.258.4829, 903.245.9673.

Saturdays, May 3 – August 2

Mineola Farmers Market. Mineola. 7 a.m. Pavilion west of the depot on Front Street. www.mineolamainstreet.com.

Winnsboro Farmers’ Market Market Street Downtown Winnsboro

Winnsboro Farmers Market. Winnsboro. 8 a.m. – Noon. Jack Cross Pavilion in City Park.

903.629.3332.winnsborofarmersmarket.com.

Athens. 8 a.m. – Noon. 212 N. Palestine just off the downtown square. 903.944.8516. www.atxfm. com.

Paris Farmers Market. 8 a.m. – Noon. Market Square. 903.784.9293 Sulphur Springs Sunrise Farmers Market. Sulphur Springs. 6 - 10 a.m. Downtown Square Park, 903.885.7541. sulphurspringsfarmersmarket.com.

Sulphur Springs Celebration Market. Sulphur Springs. 6 - 10 p.m. Downtown Square Park, 903.885.7541. www.sulphurspringsfarmersmarket. com.

Saturdays, Through November 22

Historic Longview Farmers Market. 7:3011:30 a.m. Cotton Street between High and Center.

903.746.2708. www.historiclongviewfarmersmarket.com.

Saturdays, Year Round

Nacogdoches Farmers Market. 8 a.m. – Noon.

Downtown. 936.559.2507. www.nacogdochesfarmersmarket.com.

Wednesdays, Through October

Nacogdoches Farmers Market. 2-6 p.m.

Downtown. 936.559.2507. www.nacogdochesfarmersmarket.com.

May 1 – June 30

The Berry Patch. Hughes Springs. Selfpick blackberries (or already picked) and other pre-picked produce. 14353 FM 130.

430.342.2687. www.facebook.com/pages/The-Berry-Patch/380952081944489

May 1 – July 31

Echo Springs Blueberry Farm. Brownsboro.

Blackberries, blueberries, honey, local produce, available for parties, picnics and school tours. 7235 FM 607. 903.852.3779. www. echospringsblueberryfarm.com.

Fresh, local fruits and vegetables, farm fresh eggs, grass fed beef, organic and pastured pork, pastured chicken, quail and quail eggs, local honey, baked goods 8 a.m. to Noon Saturdays rain or shine April 5 – Oct. 25 Special Events. Guest Chefs. Tastings. Recipes.

www.WinnsboroFarmersMarket.com • 903.629.3332

20 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

f

June 1 – July 31

Blueberry Hill Farms. Edom. Since 1982, provides a wide variety of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and indoor market with honey, jams, jellies, crafts and more. Blackberries are available throughout June. Blueberries may be available around July 4. This year premiers the Donut Robut making blueberry cake donuts.

Check website for days and times. 10268 FM 314. 903.853.6175. www.blueberryhillfarms.com.

Texas Blueberry Farm. Avinger. Fresh blueberries, but fresh frozen available for sale throughout the year and environment is toddler friendly. 533 County Rd. 1650.

903.562.1013. www.texasblueberryfarm.com

June 8 – July 12

Moss Springs Berry Farm. New Boston. Blackberries. Pre or Self-Picked. Cash only. 1529 FM 2149 West. 903.826.3164.

June 13 - 14

25th Annual Texas Blueberry Festival. Nacogdoches. Sponsored by Brookshire Brothers, local activities surrounding the blueberry harvest time begin May 21. 200 East Main.

936.560.5533. www.tbf.nacogdoches.org.

June 13 - 21

Hopkins County Dairy Festival & State Championship Ice Cream Freeze Off. Sulphur Springs. Week-long salute to the dairy industry in an old-fashioned county fair atmosphere.

Events include the ice cream freeze-off (June 14) at Civic Center, as well as a milking contest, street dance, parade, kid’s events & musical entertainment. Friday evening kicks off at 6 p.m. with a hot air balloon media flight. 903.8856515.www.hopkinscountydairyfestival.com.

July 10 - 12

25th Annual WHAT-A-Melon Festival. Center.

WHAT-A-Melon Pet show, Miss WHAT-A-Melon Pageant, Seed Spittin’ Contest, largest watermelon contest, carnival rides, arts & crafts, food vendors, live entertainment. Historic Downtown Center Square. 100 Courthouse Square.

936-598-5651. www.shelbycountychamber.com.

July 26 – 28

Naples Watermelon Festival and Rodeo.

Naples. Parade, bands, crafts, entertainment, street dance and more. 112 Hilltop Dr. 903.897.2037. www.city-of-naples-texas.com/

August 1 – September 30

O’Farrell Country Vineyards & Winery. Atlanta . Self-pick muscadine grapes and wines made from muscadines, peaches, plums, blackberries and blueberries. 7152 FM 995.

903.846.2054. www.ofarrellvineyard.com.

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Farmers’ Market. 200 Vendors. Tomato Eating & Peeling Contests.

Chili’s Street Dance. Antique Car Show. Much More.

The Pegasus Project Horse Rescue presents...

“wings over pegasus” June 7, 2014

Gun Barrel City ...a straight shot to Cedar Creek Lake

Aviation Extravaganza!

Airplane Rides

for Children Ages 8-17

(courtesy of EAA/weather permitting)

Come Stay & Play.

We Aim to Please!

Enjoy Horse Games, Tours, Sky Divers, and Dinner by Villa Montez Live Music

Heather Little & Matt Bradshaw

Silent Auction and Raffle Vintage Saddle, Southwest Airlines Tickets, Airplane and Helicopter Rides, and more!

Meet Our Horses!

The pegasus Project we give horses wings

Tents and lots of shade. Rain or shine! Gates open at 3:30 p.m. Airplane rides 4-6:30 p.m.

Dinner at 6:30 p.m. Concert to follow. Tickets $50 adults, $25 children 8-17, children under 8 free. Discounted tickets and more info available on the website.

www.PegasusRescue.org • 903-484-2255 7111 FM 2339, Murchison - 1/2 mile east of FM 773, 1 mile west of Callender Lake

July Fest • July 4-5 903.887.1087 www.gunbarrelcity.net www.gunbarrelcityfestivals.net

MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 21

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culture & entertainment

Check out the eMAGAZINE www.countylinemagazine.com for extended event listings.

Salute To The Armed Forces Event Seeking Participants

Planning continues for the Texas State Railroad’s 16th annual Salute to the Armed Forces event, scheduled for Memorial Day weekend, May 23- 25. This year’s event will feature the travelling replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall and its accompanying Cost of Freedom Tribute. The event also showcases military re-enactment groups, living history exhibits, static military exhibits, booths by military support groups, booths by paid vendors, food vendors, a children’s activity area and much more.

In addition, there are three short train rides per day during this three-day event. All current and former military with ID are able to ride the train free.

Booths are available at no charge to non-profit entities a small fee for forprofits. Rules and applications are on www.texasstaterr.com/exhibitors.php.

The Museum for East Texas Culture in Reagan Park in Palestine holds historical treasures of Palestine and Anderson County and hosts special events such as the recent Dulcimer Festival where guests heard concerts inside and jammers gathered on the grounds outside. The museum has exhibits on black history, the Palestine Fire Department, the railroad, and a 1900s school room. Photo by P.A. Geddie.

EVENT PICKS Spring Gala Set May 3 At East Texas Arboretum

The East Texas Arboretum is holding its annual Spring Gala on May 3. This year’s party, “Beer, Brats & Boot Scootin’” will offer a night of rollicking good fun and the chance to support the arboretum, a 100-acre treasure of woods, stream, bog and gardens, replete with miles of winding trails and bridges.

The arboretum is home to the Henderson County Veterans Memorial Wall, the historic Wofford House, Discovery Barn, Little Red School House, a 115-foot suspension bridge and other points of interest.

For one evening only, three of the landmark buildings are transformed into Oma’s Haus for beer, brats and beans, The Yellow Rose Saloon for boot scootin’ and Aunt Tessa’s Boarding House for silent auction, games and dessert.

The festivities start at 6:30 p.m.

The East Texas Arboretum is located at 1601 Patterson Rd. on the north edge of Athens, off Hwy. 175 just inside Loop 7. For more information and tickets call 903.675.5630 or visit easttexasarboretum.org.

22 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

County Line makes every effort to ensure accurate information. However, information could change.

Please call ahead before making plans. For more listings or organizations and activities and for a list of annual events in and around North East Texas, visit countylinemagazine.com.

Every Thursday Cruise Night. Athens. Classic cars,street rods, rat rods, project cars and trucks,new cars, motorcycles and more. Free. Downtown Athens, 219 S. Palestine Street. (903)-675-8616.

May 1–4, May 29-June 1 & July 3–6 First Monday Trades Days. Canton. The oldest and largest flea market in the world. The ultimate shopping experience. Wander 300 acres of antiques, arets and crafts, and handmade articles. Free. First Monday Trades Days Grounds. 877-462-7467. visitcantontx.com.

May 1 – July 31 Turtle Pilgrimage. Uncertain. Hundreds of female red-ear sliders come ashore to lay eggs. The City post signs along the roadways to alert motorists to protect the reptiles. Caddo Lake. (903) 789-3443.

May 2 - 4 Chisum Western Days. Paris. Chuck Wagon Cook-offs and lots of fun for all ages. Paris/ Lamar County Fairgrounds. (903) 732-3869. www.paristexas.com.

2014 Prairies & Pineywoods BirdFest. Talco. $70 festival fee covers all tours, $30 keynote dinner fee. Selah Ranch, 450 County Road NW 1051. 713-882-4195. www.birdingmtvernon. com.

May 3 Cinco de Mayo Celebration. Athens. 9 a.m. 4 p.m. TFFC Admission: $5.50 adults, $4.50 seniors 65+, $3.50 children ages 4-12. Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, 5550 FM 2495.

903.676.2277. athenstx.org/things-to-do/cincode-mayo-celebration-2014.

Heritage Day Festival. Bonham. 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Downtown. at Main and Fifth streets. www. visitbonham.com.

May 3 - 4 The Great Locomotive Chase and Naval Battle of Port Jefferson. Jefferson. $15 for adults and $12 for children. Saturday: Trains depart noon,1 p.m., 2 p.m., 7 p.m., from Historic Downtown Jefferson Train Station.

Sunday: Train departs 11:30 a.m. 400 E. Austin St. 903.665.2672. www.jefferson-texas.com/ civil-war-event.

May 9 -10 1st Annual Sabine Shootout. Edgewood.

IBCA sanctioned event showcasing local cooking talent, live music, vendors and fun for the family. Edgewood City Park. 400 E. Pine Hwy 80. 214.450.2743. www.facebook.com/sabineshootout.

May 10

Heritage Park Spring Folk Festival. Sulphur Springs. Heritage Park. visitsulphurspringstx.org.

Corsicana Airshow. Corsicana. Hosted by the Coyote Squadron of the Commemorative Air Force. Known as “The Best Little Airshow in Texas” this show provides a variety of acts, vendors, food, as well as rides in several warbirds. 10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. $10 person/$10 per car/Free to Veterans & Active Military Personnel & Families. Corsicana Municipal Airport. 9000 Navarro Rd. 903.467.7170.

May 15 - 17

1st Annual Wild Bill’s Cook-off. New Boston.

First ever IBCA sanctioned event at this location. 903.746.9661. ibcabbq.org/events-2014.

May 16 - 17

Legend of Lake Fork Bass Tournament .

Alba. More than $300,000 in prizes.Lake Fork. 275 CR #1558. 903.878.2500. www.legendoflakefork.com.

May 17 - 18

Jefferson Train Days. Jefferson. Tours: 12:30, 2:30 and 4:30. Sunday ‘s Narrated Historical Day Tours: 1:30 and 3:00 Jefferson Museum. www.JeffersonTrainDays.com.

May 19

UT Patriot Golf Classic and Suddenlink Patriot Million Dollar Hole in One Contest.

Tyler. East Texas premier golf tournament with activities and excitement of the hole-inone events on May 10, 17 and 18, lead up to an exciting finale of prizes for participants.

Hollytree Country Club. 6700 Hollytree Dr. 903.566.7411. www.uttyler.edu/advancement/ golf-classic.

May 22 - 25

20th Annual Fair on the Square. Rusk. 184 S. Main. 903.683.4242. www.ruskchamber.com.

June 6 – 7

Mineola’s “Junibalee”. Mineola. A spinoff of the annual Mineola May Days, but bigger and better with more activities in conjunction with Downtown Mineola. Mineola Civic Center RV Park. 903.569.2087. www.mineola. chamber.com.

June 7

National Fishing Day. Athens. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

TFFC Admission: Adults $5.50, seniors 65+ $4.50. Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, 5550 FM 2495. 903.676.2277. http://athenstx.org/ things-to-do/national-fishing-day-2014.

June 12 - 15

Summer Boat Show. Longview. Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Complex, 100 Grand Blvd. 903-753-3515.

June 13 - 21

Hopkins County Dairy Festival & State

Championship Ice Cream Freeze Off. Sulphur Springs. Week-long salute to the dairy industry in an old-fashioned county fair atmosphere. Events include the ice cream freeze-off (June 14) at Civic Center, as well as a milking contest, street dance, parade, kid’s events & musical entertainment. Friday evening kicks off at 6 p.m. with a hot air balloon media flight. 903.885-6515.www.hopkinscountydairyfestival.com.

June 13 - 14

Shelby County Sheriff’s Posse PRCA Rodeo.

Center. 7:30 p.m. Advance: Adults $8, 6 – 12 $5; Gate: Adults $10, 6-12 $7, under 5 years free. Shelby County Expo Center, State Highway 7 E. 936.598.8453. shelbycountychamber.com.

June 14

27th Annual Tyler Cattle Barons’ Gala. Tyler. Tickets range from $300 to $175, and midway wrist bands are available for $50. Rio Neches Ranch. 18654 CR 48. 903.597.1383. www.cattlebaronsgala.net.

Classic Car Show. Paris. Love Civic Center.

2025 S. Collegiate. (903) 739-9763. www. rrvhonkers.com.

July 3 – 5

Timpson Frontier Days. Timpson. 10 a.m. 10 p.m. Free. Downtown Timpson & SoSo Park.

Jacob Street 936-254-2603. www.shelbycountychamber.com.

Discover the East Texas Oil Fields of the 1930s

The East Texas Oil Museum is located on the campus of Kilgore College in Kilgore, Texas. This fascinating museum houses the authentic re-creation of oil discovery and production in the early 1930s from the largest oil field inside U.S. boundaries.

Museum Hours Tues-Sat 9am - 4pm April-Sept 9am - 5pm Sun 2-5p.m.

Hwy. 259 at Ross St, Kilgore, Texas On the Kilgore College Campus, 903.983.8295

www.EastTexasOilMuseum.com MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 23

the arts Fiber Art Exhibit Continues In Tyler Gallery Main Street continues its “Color and Texture” art exhibit through May 5 at the gallery, 110 W. Erwin in Tyler.

“Color and Texture” is the second juried exhibit of 2014 for the gallery, which is managed by the city of Tyler Main Street Department in cooperation with the volunteers of the Downtown Tyler Arts Coalition and Heart of Tyler, Inc. The exhibit prospectus explains fiber art as “…all traditional fiber techniques such as spinning, weaving, embroidery, quilting, sewing, dyeing and others, as well as traditional techniques with nontraditional materials such as weaving wire or metal, fabric collage and threedimensional sculptures.”

“This is probably the most unique, diverse exhibit of the year,” said Beverly Abell, department leader of the city of Tyler Main Street Department. “You will

Our readers want to get to know you!

Check out COUNTY LINE ONLINE for our extended coverage of art news and events. www.countylinemagazine.com

see everything from portraits in fiber, wood, metal, triptychs, jewelry, clothing and so much more. “‘Color and Texture’ is an exhibit you do not want to miss, just for its sheer variety,” said Abell, noting that more than 50 works of art will be on exhibit.

The fiber arts exhibit is a collaborative project with the East Texas Fiber Artists group.

Those who want more information on the exhibit or future Gallery Main Street exhibits should go to www.DowntownTylerArts.com or call the gallery at 903.593.6905.

Local Art Exhibition Continues In Texarkana

The Texarkana Regional Arts and Humanities Council (TRAHC) presents a joint exhibition of two local artists: “Inside Out: The Art of Shea Phillips & Melanie Power.” Their works are on display at the Regional Arts Center, 321 West Fourth St., through May 10 in the Main Lobby, Second Floor and Third Floor galleries.

The exhibition is made possible by TRAHC Membership contributions.

TRAHC hosted a reception for this exhibition in April at the Regional Arts Center. The reception coincided with another exhibition, “Resemblance: Figure and Portrait Paintings by Runcie Tatnall.”

Contact Amy Donohoe at 903.792.8681 or via email at adonohoe@trahc.org for more information about the exhibitions and the reception.

ARTS EVENTS Through May 31

Call today to see how we can help you meet your needs for the most costeffective, results-oriented advertising.

903.963.8306 www.countylinemagazine.com 24 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

A Celebration of American Indian Culture Exhibit. Winnsboro. The newly renovated gallery at the Winnsboro Center for the Arts will host an exhibit of American Indian art done by local Native American artists and American Indian artifacts on loan from private collections. Open to the public, however donations are graciously accepted. Wednesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Winnsboro Center for the Arts. 200 Market Street.

903-342-0686. wca.artscenter@gmail.com. www. winnsborocenterforthearts.com.

Through July 14 Scott M. Lieberman, M.D.: At the Vantage Point. Tyler. Tyler Museum of Art. 1300 S. Mahon. 903-595-1001. www.tylermuseum.org.

Through June 15 Mediterranea: American Art from the Graham D. Williford Collection. Tyler. Tyler Museum of Art. 1300 S. Mahon. 903-595-1001. www.tylermuseum.org.

May 10 Opening for “The Architectural Aesthetic Exhibit. Tyler. Join us to celebrate the grand opening of Gallery Main Street’s “The Architectural Aesthetic” fine art exhibit. The event will feature music, refreshments and an opportunity to meet the artists. 5:30 - 8:00 p.m. Free. Gallery Main Street. 110 W Erwin.

903.593.6905. www.cityoftyler.org.

May 17 22nd Annual Student Juried Exhibit. Texarkana. Texarkana Regional Arts & Humanities Council. 321 W. 4th Street. 903.7792.868. www.trahc.org.

June 21 - 22 Far Out Art Fest. Ben Wheeler. The best of handcrafted artisan wares in a great destination community. Downtown Ben Wheeler.

903.570.6955. www.benwheelertx.com.

July 10 - 12 25th Annual WHAT-A-Melon Festival. Center. WHAT-A-Melon Pet show, Miss WHAT-AMelon Pageant, Seed Spittin’ Contest, largest watermelon contest, carnival rides, arts & crafts, food vendors, live entertainment. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. $4. Historic Downtown Center Square, 100 Courthouse Square. 936-598-5651. www.shelbycountychamber.com.

July 12 Reception for Diversity Exhibit. Tyler. Join us to celebrate the grand opening of Gallery Main Street’s Diversity fine art exhibit.

The event will feature music, refreshments and an opportunity to meet the artists.

Main Street. 110 W Erwin. 5:30 - 8 p.m. Free.

903.593.6905. www.cityoftyler.org.

August 1 Michelson Museum of Art Walking Tour.

Marshall. Marshall Architectural Walking Tour led by Tony Crosby. Guests enjoy a wine and cheese reception. 6:30 p.m. Michelson Museum of Art. 216 N. Bolivar Street.

903.935.9480. www.michelsonmuseum.org.

Groups Enjoy Painting with Erin

Summer

2014

ARTWORKS

SCHEDULE Classes for Children & Adults

JUNE 2 f AUGUST 9

By Tamara Stokes

One of the first things people notice about Erin Simmons is her infectious smile and they soon learn about her passion for art.

In her adopted home town of Canton, Simmons started a mobile art class where participants, for a reasonable price, are given turn-key materials to create a frameworthy masterpiece, even if this is the first time they have ever picked up a paint brush. Their creativity and pleasure are enhanced by being in a low pressure environment such as someone’s home or a local venue with friends.

Simmons says that anyone can enjoy art and that her classes are meant to be fun and relaxing. She hopes some will embrace it as a hobby.

“I think all of us are a little afraid to put ourselves out there and try something new and different,” she said. “A blank canvas is like that, it can be intimidating. I tell my guests there are no mistakes that can’t be fixed, and sometimes, those ‘mistakes’ turn out making the piece special. There’s a moment I’ve observed over and over when they take that first step and just throw some paint up there…it’s like they’ve experienced this release and, then they have a great time.”

For as long as she can remember, Simmons says she loved to draw and that came naturally to her as well as painting.

Her knowledge and interest in art was nurtured through the Richardson High School (RHS) Magnet Art Program, where she also received an art internship for the Dallas Museum of Art in 1998.

“I learned a lot from my art teachers as well as the other students,” she said. “We

VIEW OUR sUmmER schEdUlE AT got to go on amazing field trips to different galleries including a tour of Ray Nasher’s home and personal collection before he donated it to the City of Dallas.”

Apart from her high school art immersion and summer internship at the DMA, Simmons also completed coursework and art classes through Colin County Community College and Richland College. She says that she’s been inspired by Renoir, Degas, Klimt, DiCianni, O’Keefe, Dali, and she is a fan of the Art Nouveau style.

www.LMFA.ORG

RegiSTeR TOdAy

BY PHONE OR ON OUR WEBSITE! 903.753.8103 • WWW.LMFA.ORg

215 E. Tyler St. • Longview, Texas

Her talent runs in the family. Simmons’ grandmother, Ellen Tippit of Ben Wheeler, is a watercolor artist.

“My grandmother is always doing crafty things,” she said. “She taught me to never stop learning and to just have fun, regardless of the medium.”

Simmons says, “There always has, and always will be, art in my life. It’s part of what makes me a whole person.”

In addition to her classes, Simmons draws professional portraits on consignment to commemorate life milestones, such as the birth of a new baby, weddings, and other happy times. She says that when her work touches someone else on a personal level and she captures a glimpse of the essence of the person in the drawing, she meets her personal and professional standard.

Painting with Erin is available for on-location painting parties for groups of 10-30.

There are monthly parties at Yama Yoga and Savannah Winery in Canton and at the Grand Saline Library. For more information visit www.Facebook.com/PaintingWithErin or email erin@erintopia. com or phone 972.971.5964.

Live Music, Theater, Comedy and Movies!

Downtown Tyler • 103 E. Erwin • Tyler, Texas 75702 a departMent of the City of tyler

May 2 at 8 p.M.

The Bellamy Brothers May 10 at 3 p.M.

“Steel Magnolias” (1989) June 5 at 7 p.M.

“Some Like it Hot” (1959) June 7 at 8 p.M.

“Sound Spectacular: The Golden Era of American Popular Music” June 12 at 7 p.M.

“To Have and Have Not” (1944) June 13

The East Texas Comedy Festival with Jimmy Pardo June 14

The East Texas Comedy Festival with Frank Caeti and Susan Messing June 19 at 7 p.M.

“Rope”

June 21 at 3 p.M.

“E.T. the Extraterrestrial” (1982) June 23-27, 9 a.M. - 12 noon

“So You Think You Can Act?” Children’s Theater Camp with APEX & Felicity Enas

(M-F with Performance on Saturday 6/28)

June 26 at 7 p.M.

“Citizen Kane” (1941)

For ticket information go to LibertyTyler.com MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 25



on stage

Check out www.countylinemagazine.com for our extended STAGE news and event listings.

Texas Shakespeare Festival Gears Up for Season Last summer’s Texas Shakespeare Festival hosted by Kilgore College attracted audiences from more than 150 towns in Texas, 44 different states and nine foreign countries. Offering professional theatre productions in June and July for the past 28 years, the Texas Commission on the Arts called the event “one of the top ten cultural attractions in Texas,” and the Tyler Morning Telegraph labeled it “the cultural gem of East Texas.”

Created in 1986 by Artistic Director Raymond Caldwell, the festival is gearing up for its 29th summer season which consists of Macbeth and Cymbeline

by Shakespeare, the British comedy Noises Off, the world-famous musical My Fair Lady, and The Lost Prince, an original play for children. Opening nights are June 26, 27, 28, and 29, and performances continue Thursday through Sunday with both matinees and evening shows, through July 27.

According to Caldwell, the two most common misperceptions of the Festival are (1) it is Kilgore College students performing Shakespeare plays in the summer, and (2) it offers only Shakespearean plays. Neither statement is true. The festival was created to provide professional productions of the world’s most admired plays and musicals to the citizens of East Texas and to offer professional theatre artists an opportunity to perform them for an eager and appreciative audience. It isn’t necessary to go to Dallas or Houston to see a first-class, live theatre performance in a comfortable and intimate indoor setting. Just drive over to Kilgore any weekend from late June throughout the month of July, and be amazed by what you see in the cool and comfortable Van Cliburn Theatre on the Kilgore College campus.

All of the actors, designers and directors are professional theatre artists selected through coast-to-coast auditions and interviews each year, and an impressive number of former TSF performers have established successful theatre, movie, and television careers 26 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

including Michael C Hall (Dexter and Six Feet Under on television; Cabaret and other Broadway plays); Danny Pino (Cold Case and Law and Order SVU); Seamus Dever (Castle on television); Glenn Fleshler (Broadway, movies and television, including True Detective with Matthew McConaughey); Rick Holmes (Spamalot); Glenn Kessler (creator, writer and producer of Damages starring Glenn Close); Andrew Samonsky (South Pacific on Broadway); Fred Berman (The Lion King on Broadway); Kelly AuCoin (the movie Julie and Julia and several TV and Broadway roles); and many others.

Individual tickets for the main stage shows range from $23 to $30, and a season ticket to all four is $90. Tickets for The Lost Prince are $7. For information, call the TSF Ticket Office at 903.983.8601 or visit the new website at wwwTexasShakespeare.com. To order a color brochure containing details about the 2014 plays and other TSF events, call 903.983.8119.

Stage Through May 3

Picnic. Athens. The show written by William Inge is a Pulitzer Prize winner that was performed on Broadway and was later made into a motion picture starring William

Measure for Measure, 2012 Holden and Natalie Wood. 7:30 p.m. Adults $17, Student/Child $12. Henderson County Performing Arts Center, 400 Gibson Rd.,. 903675-3908. athenstx.org/things-to-do/picnic.

May 2 Wayne Brady. Tyler. Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd. 903.566.7424 . www.cowancenter. org.

May 9 - 18 Cheaper by the Dozen. Tyler. Tyler Civic Theater. 400 Rose Park Drive. 903.592.0561. www. tylercivictheater.com.

May 17 Adrian Peterson’s All Day Foundation Comedy Tour. Tyler. Hosted by Joe Torry and featuring Gary Owens, Michael Blackston, Brandon T. Jackson, and A. J. Johnson. 7 p.m. $35 - $65. The Oil Palace . 10408 Texas 64. 903.566.2120. www.oilpalace.com.

August 18 – 27 The White Liars. Paris. Paris Community Theater, 30 N. Plaza. (903) 784-0259. http://www. pctonstage.com

September 4 – 7 Rabbit Hole. Paris. Paris Community Theater.

903.784.0259. http://www.pctonstage.com

September 5 - 14 Harvey. Tyler. Tyler Civic Theater, 400 Rose Park Drive. 903.592.0561. http://www.tylercivictheater.com



film

Film Festival Entries Accepted Through July 31

TV Show Films Scenes at Texas State Railroad

Entries are accepted through July 31 on www.FilmFreeway.com for the fourth annual Downtown Tyler Film Festival, showing September 24-27 in the city of Tyler’s Liberty Hall.

The Downtown Tyler Film Festival is a celebration of storytelling through film in East Texas. This is an international film festival with short films from all around the world; however, it seeks to encourage local East Texas, independent works.

Films may be of any genre, 15 minures or less, and comleted after January 1, 2012.

There is also a student category for films produced entirely by filmmakers under the age of 18. Last year, there were several student films produced in the Tyler area, and festival coordinators hope to receive even more this year.

“Students are the perfect model of independent filmmaking: endless creativity, lots of experimentation, and no money,” said film festival chairman Justin Reese.

“We want to encourage them to hone their craft by providing an audience they can impress and a cash prize they can use to fund their next film.”

The cast and crew of the NBC television show “Revolution,” including Billy Burke as Miles Matheson, filmed the first half of a two-part finale for the shows second season recently at the Texas State Railroad property in Palestine.

Set construction took place the first week with a construction crew, painters, set decorators and the greens department

preparing each scene location to have that special “Revolution” look.

The cast and crew spent four days shooting daytime and nighttime scenes at various locations on the railroad’s property.

The episode airs in May. “Revolution,” produced by Bonanza Productions, Inc., airs at 7 p.m. Central time on Wednesdays on NBC.

There will be awards with cash prizes for Best of the Fest, Best East Texas Film, Best Student Film and Audience Favorite.

Applicants are encouraged to submit as early as possible for cheaper entry fees.

East Texas filmmakers also receive a 25 percent discount off the entry price by entering the TEXASFOREVER2014 code into www.FilmFreeway.com. See Film Freeway or www.TylerFilmFest.com for eligibility details.

“The Downtown Tyler Film Festival has doubled the number of entries received each year and 2014 is expected to be bigger and better than ever,” said Main Street Department Leader Beverly Abell.

“It is amazing what our Tyler filmmakers are producing and how much they improve each year.”

More information is available at www.

TylerFilmFest.com or by following Tyler Film Fest on Facebook and Twitter. Any inquiries should be made to the Main Street Department at 903.593.6905.

EAST TEXAS’ ONLY PROFESSIONAL THEATRE

29th Season

June 26-July 27, 2014

Cymbeline

by William Shakespeare

Noises Off

by Michael Frayn

Macbeth

by William Shakespeare

My Fair Lady

Book and Lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner Music by Frederick Loewe

The Lost Prince (a children’s play)

by Jason Richards

Call 903-983-8601 or purchase tickets online at www.TexasShakespeare.com Featured in Southern Living, Texas Monthly, and Texas Highways. Don’t Miss It! MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 27

POETRY Maple Tree

How long can beauty be denied before sap-quickened limbs slowly turn thin and brittle, vanishing into the dark forest floor?

Seven years of good intentions passed unrequited till a winter’s wind left only memories of one whom mended hearts.

A short morning’s work, soil kneaded softly by a January rain; an interment into spaciousness where roots will spread freely as her love did, for so many.

Upper East Side of Texas 2014 Winning Entries

ADULTS

FIRST PLACE

Past a curving trail of azaleas and sharing the same sandy soil is a stunted maple tree captured between the roofs and roots of its neighbors.

County Line Magazine’s

SECOND PLACE

One Night on the Neches The sun lays down its head As nature comes alive Campfire gives off an eerie glow I settle in for the night Tonight’s gonna be a cleansing My soul needs a breath of fresh air One night on the Neches I’m not leaving till it takes me there The trees look frail and skeletal Behind the light of the moon Embers ascend up to the stars Like tiny glowing balloons Tonight’s gonna be my purification My spirit needs to be found One night on the Neches I’m not leaving till I chase it down My heart beats like a drum Keeping perfect rhythm…………….

Judy Gottesman Murchison

FIRST PLACE

Evaporated Badness

John Hobbs Van

Cocoon My husband is up and gone Off to conquer the world while I Lie in my cozy cocoon of covers Bare skin caressed by silken threads Head buoyed by a bank of pillows Mmmm…delicious, decadent do-nothingness.

A heavy, warmth settles on my chest Purring – My cat confines me even while coffee Beckons from the kitchen. I take my time And linger, luxuriating in my laziness Surrounded and soothed by sunshine Streaming in on dog-eared books Piled on the bedside chest I choose the nearest one and within I am up and gone, off to conquer the world As l lie in my cozy cocoon of covers.

Kimberly Tamara Sherrell Athens

GRADES 1-5 THIRD PLACE

The bad in the can, Is the bad in my stomach.

The time I looked at it, I SCREAMED!!

THIRD PLACE

SECOND PLACE

Mother Nature

Wolves Wolves Strong, Brave Hunts for Prey

I try to run from it, But it keeps coming in to my lunch.

If you look into the eyes of nature,

Milk Milk No No!!!

EVAPORATED MILK IS MY ENEMY!!!

She will take you in as one of her own,

Wolves

‘cause you are a nature kind of person.

Zachary Fisher Fifth grade, Fruitvale

I HAVE TASTED IT AND I NOTICE IT IS AN INGREDIENT IN PIE. I HATE PIE AND IT WILL PROBABLY MAKE ME DIE. Jack Moore Fourth grade, Tyler 28 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

you will see Mother Nature.

Abigail Barker Fourth grade, Wills Point

Running with the Pack

FIRST PLACE

GRADES 9-12

To Simply Be Always pushing, driving, working, dreaming, To be a better me.

To surpass my goals of yesterday, To defeat internal enemy.

Little time to waste, To rest, relax, enjoy.

Always moving, going, working; No time to simply be.

Praying that it’s just a fluke, but it’s not.

A drive to achieve does not pose threat, Yet the road to success proves boundless.

Does triumph lie within my reach?

The meaning of life disappears into the toils of aspiration, A cloud of regret in its midst.

In the constant struggle to succeed, Do we forget to simply be?

Kaylie Hartman 12th grade, Longview

I’m no damsel in distress No little girl in a dress I’m no princess like Cinderella Nor am I vampire Bella

The Light To watch the light fade away

Tirelessly I work, I push, To reach beyond the stars; To accomplish, To succeed, Will satisfaction ever come?

I’m Myself

THIRD PLACE

Does it end?

Do I dare to stop and smell the roses, When opportunity awaits?

FIRST PLACE

I’m myself, just me I wish that only you could see

Blown out in a matter of seconds, after burning for many years To find out that the light that kept me sane is gone.

The darkness is like the depths of a bottomless pit

I’m myself, just me I wish that only you could see

Sad, but the pain is evanesce.

I’m no sleeping Beauty I don’t drink British tea I’m no Rapunzel in a tower Nor am I a pretty wallflower

To watch the light fade away But to see the light return, like a ship in the night.

The light that was my candle on earth

I’m myself, just me I wish that only you could see

Is now my star in the sky.

A start that twinkles at night, Letting me know it’s still here, will one day beckon me back.

Eternal life is my hope of seeing that light again.

Brianna N. Johnson 12th grade, Longview

SECOND PLACE

Hallelujah You hold yourself high above on a pedestal refusing love, You never let yourself fall do you?

You run, you hide, you see the light, But you shut it out, you prefer the night, Where you can rest in all your hallelujahs.

Hush sweet child please hush now, The devil hears what you speak aloud, Silent prayers will shield your heart, Your soul evolves when you choose the dark, But you don’t choose the dark you live in do you?

Hide the hola with our golden hair, Then angel cries if she sees you stare, And on her face is written hallelujah.

You can climb the ivory tower alone, But you can’t escape your own tortured throne, The magic word will free you hallelujah.

The things you chase they’re all in vain, Read the Book and say His name, Close the door of unsacred lies, Love’s at waste if it’s love you hide, Share it with every hallelujah.

Claire Simmons 9th grade, Nacogdoches

I’m no Beauty who knows a Beast I’m not going to have a feast No Ariel under sea Has ever been compared to me

I don’t know a prince charming Sometimes I’m not even listening I’m no Angel from the sky I’m no bird that flies up high I’m myself, just me I wish that only you could see

GRADES 6-8

I’m no sensational rock star I don’t even sing at a bar But honestly and truthfully I’m no one else but me.

Kayleigh Isbell Eighth grade, Carthage THIRD PLACE

The Man

SECOND PLACE

Playing With Flowers Flowing, swaying, flying through air dancing and playing in the field covering the bugs from rain and from sun talking and singing to the beats of the wind always so happy to be there again.

Emily Richardson Sixth grade, Mabank

The man under the fan In the room with the bed I slept with the man under the fan By his head in the bed The man and I lie side by side He worked cows all his life Under his hat he would hide He was loved by many but mainly his wife I didn’t know him well I was six months old At the end of the year He rose up to his next life And I still think of the man under the fan.

Anthony Stewart Sixth grade, Cushing

MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 29



bookmarks

ues to blog in his daily devotionals.

ousy or a moonshine business. Mark Busby uses the device of a young narrator, Jeff Adams, who follows a college assignment into the mystery of the lynchings by interviewing his grandfather and great aunt and others to find out just what happened and why, especially why. In the process, the young man learns about himself and the world in which he lives — 1960s East Texas.

Cedar Crossing

By Mark Busby TCU Press

Reviewed by Edward H. Garcia Before we are ten pages into Cedar Crossing, the outlines of its central event have been revealed — the lynching of three Henderson County men in an area now covered by Cedar Creek Reservoir.

Though this is a novel, it is thoroughly grounded in historical accounts of the actual events that garnered Henderson County unflattering publicity for a few months in1899. Filling in the bare outlines of the story is the aim and the method of the novel, but, as one of the tellers of the tale says, “Stories got their own way of rollin’ themselves out, and I’ll jest let this one come out like a armadillo leavin’ home.”

Though we tend to think of lynchings as white on black crimes, the Trans-Cedar Lynchings, as they were called, involved a group of white men taking three white men — a man and two grown sons--out of their homes in the night and hanging them from a low branch. One of the grisly and memorable aspects of the hangings is that the tree branch was too low and the men’s legs had to be tied behind them so they couldn’t reach the ground.

The reasons for the murders were unclear from the beginning — perhaps it had to do with some stolen hogs or jeal30 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

For me, Cedar Crossing comes alive in the accounts of the story told by Jeff’s Pampaw and Aunt Mag and the other “witnesses.” Busby captures their voices, their language, and their idiosyncrasies. Pampaw smokes cigars and listens to country music out of a cranked radio out in the garage while Mammaw naps.

Aunt Mag serves sweet tea and keeps a snuff-soaked matchstick in her cheek.

However, when the author explores the coming to awareness of the young narrator, the prose becomes pedestrian and the insights obvious. Luckily, most of the novel is in the hands and voices of the oldtimers who tell the stories from their own points of view.

By the end, the narrator has pieced together a plausible explanation of the murders and a satisfying conclusion to the mystery. The author doesn’t claim to have uncovered the actual reason for the historical lynchings, but says he hoped to achieve what he calls “fictional truth,” a story true to the times and the people, whether or not it happened just that way.

East Texas Authors Take Part In Book Review Event

Three local authors were recently special guests at the Cultural Arts Center (CAC) in Mt. Vernon for “A Novel Idea,” a book review and sack lunch event sponsored by the Franklin County Art Alliance in partnership with the Northeast Texas Writer’s Organization.

Joe Kuhl, a coordinator of the First Baptist Church Men’s Ministry in Mt. Vernon, is devoted to a multi-denominational group called Men of Courage. The group is open to men in the area and encourages Christ-oriented growth. In 2009, Kuhl started a website, www.menofcouragemv.org, and contin-

“It has been a work in progress for many, many years,” he said. “I take one scripture and write, almost like a journal entry, what that word means to me. It boggles my mind to know people from South Africa, Ireland and other countries read the blog. I even sent a man in South America information about starting a Man Church there.”

Fifty-two of Kuhl’s favorite and randomly picked entries have made it into his new book titled, thoughts for your day …

Kuhl’s far-reaching ministry comes out of Mt. Vernon where he and his wife Trish raised their daughter Maria and where his grandparents once lived in the Hopewell area.

Ron and Caryl McAdoo are well-known for their critiquing skills honed during their years with the DFW Writer’s Workshop. They presently live in the Clarksville area on a farm with plenty of space to nurture four grandsons. All totaled, they have 14 “grandsugars.” They are established fiction and non-fiction authors and published in a number of genres. Caryl is currently involved in promoting her latest book, Vow Unbroken. The historical Christian romance recently received a favorable review in Publishers Weekly and will undoubtedly be followed by others in that genre.

Paul Paris Jr., formerly of Mt. Vernon, is well-known in the area for his community work and as an employee of First National Bank. Now, he has dedicated himself fully to writing. In 1989, he won a USAF Strategic Air Command writing competition. He worked as a stringer for the Longview News Journal, wrote his autobiography and lately completed Amazing Faith, A Walk with Cancer. The book is about the story and faith behind his first wife’s battle with cancer. It is also a story of the strong faith that made the ordeal easier to bear. A Dallas native, Paul spends time in East Texas and the Oregon Coast. He has two children and two granddaughters who live in Dallas. Paris is presently working on a children’s series concerning the early craft of barnstorming. He is a retired Air Force pilot.

For more information about the Franklin County Art Alliance visit www. franklincountyarts.com and for Northeast Texas Writers Organization go to www.netwo.org or call 903.573.6084.

The sun rises over calm water at Lake Fork in Texas, a favorite lake for bass fishing and more. Photo by Steve Price

Lake Fork Offers a Variety of Things To Do in the Summer

By Jan Adamson For those who think of lakes as having mirror-like surfaces, never interrupted by anything but an occasional skating bug, Lake Fork near Emory must cause some bewilderment. Across its surface in some areas are the remainders of the forest land that the lake sits atop, with jagged tree stumps jutting above the water.

But for those who get serious about fishing, those stumps look like pots of gold because they’re the feeding grounds for the bass, catfish, crappie, sunfish and carp that attract fishermen from across the world.

According to the March issue of Texas Highways magazine, a lot of people are serious about Lake Fork, ranking it 27th among the top 40 destinations in the state of Texas with more than 65 percent of the Texas top 50 largest bass caught here.

Lake Fork covers 27,690 acres in Wood, Rains and Hopkins Counties and it holds 16 of the top 20 state records for largemouth bass catches.

“Lake Fork is the premier bass fishery of the world,” said Lake Fork Chamber of Commerce president Randy Bunch. “It’s also home to a variety of other activities such as hunting and boating.”

The lake hosts multiple tournaments throughout the year, drawing hundreds of professional fishermen to the area. Just

this spring, the lake will host the Texas Toyota Bass Class on May 9-11; the Bass Pro Shops Big Cat Quest on May 3-4 and the Legend of Lake Fork Tournament on May 16-18. A Bud Light Tournament is held each April.

Bunch also pointed out that Lake Fork’s setting is one of its prime advantages. “It’s close to Tyler and Dallas so you have easy access. You aren’t spending your time stuck in traffic,” he said.

Newcomers to the lake will do well to hire a guide, both to help navigate the lake and to help find the best place to hunt down that big fish.

Guides usually provide boat, bait and gear for a day’s fishing and get fishermen to those great locations with, hopefully, all the big fish. Choosing a guide that’s fished the lake for several years more likely guarantees he’ll know all the channels and coves to check.

Fishermen aren’t the only people to enjoy the lake — birders have a wealth of things to do as well. Eagles and hawks make the area their home as do blue birds, blue jays, cardinals, assorted ducks and white egrets.

Two or three times a year, the lake also sees a flock of white pelicans drop in.

One of the hidden jewels of the lake doesn’t have a thing to do with fish. It’s hamburgers.

Most of the marinas have restaurants attached and it’s an easy bet they serve up one of the best burgers around. It must be in response to hungry fishermen coming in off the lake or maybe it’s just the fresh air setting, but diners can count on not having to look hard to one.

And if it’s catfish that’s desired after a long day on the lake, AJ’s Fish House on Highway 17 has served up big plates full for several years.

A pretty day brings picnics to mind and there’s a place for that. W.C. Swearingen Recreation Area is located on SH 154 and includes a wheelchair accessible floating fishing pier. There is also a playground, barbecue pits, picnic tables and a pavilion for larger gatherings. Another wheelchair accessible pier is located at the Highway 17 launch area.

The growth of the tri-county area brought on by Lake Fork has also brought an upswing in other activities. Lake Fork Country Club was voted Most Improved Golf Course in East Texas by the East Texas Golf Association. The 18-hole course has shorter fairways and larger greens for its players to master.

The Links at Land’s End is set partly along the lake making the 18 hole play an adventure with great scenery and is a member of County Line Magazine’s Hall of Fame for consistently getting the most votes for Best Golf Course in the Upper East Side of Texas.

Evening entertainment abounds all around the lake as well. Winnsboro and Mineola are great destinations for live music and good dining. Emory hosts the Rains County Eagle Fest each year, honoring the birds that make Lake Fork their home. Sulphur Springs offers the Southwest Dairy Museum and each of the towns around the lake have shopping of all sorts.

Lake Fork has a lot to offer visitors and summer is the best time of all at the lake.

MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 31

FOOD & DRINK The Back Porch

904 Broadway KILGORE 903.984.8141 www.thebackporchkilgore.com

Review by Patti Light Some restaurants function simply as a means to get food, while others seek to provide diners with a unique experience.

And then there is that rare third breed that offers its patrons a space, a location where one can experience great ambience, wonderful food, and, perhaps most importantly, a room of one’s own, or rather, to quote Cheers, somewhere where everyone knows your name. In Kilgore, that place is The Back Porch, a place that’s every bit as cozy and intimately familiar as its name suggests.

The Back Porch is famous for its chicken sandwich and spicy fries.

Located in the comfortable confines of scenic downtown Kilgore, The Back Porch is a local legend, as famous for its hometown atmosphere as it is for its truly sumptuous fare. The Back Porch’s legendary status comes from “time, tra-

dition, and people,” according to their website. Not only is there a spacious area to dine in, including outdoor seating areas, The Back Porch offers a variety of live musical acts for its guests, any one of which allows those present to enjoy lively

Best of the Upper East Side of Texas

entertainment while partaking of their wonderful menu items.

For starters, so to speak, two of the best appetizers are the bottle caps, which are fried, breaded jalapeno slices served siz-

Pawpa’s House in the country

Satellite • Wireless Internet Jacuzzi tub • Hot tub Fully equipped kitchen Handicap accessible Near Canton, Ben Wheeler, Lindale, Tyler, Mineola.

One hour to Dallas.

1601 VZ County Road 1512 Van Texas 903.571.3620 • www.pawpashouse.com

Tuesday & Wednesday DINNER SPECIAL Mixed Green Salad Choice of Fresh Fish of the day, Ribeye Steak, or Filet Mignon Served with Whipped Potatoes and Green Beans $26.00

Located in a beautiful lakeside lodge at 21191 FM 47 in Wills Point, one block north of Interstate 20, Exit 516 Open Tuesday - Saturday 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Available for Special Events

Reservations Recommended 903.873.2225 www.fourwindssteakhouse.com 32 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

Open 24/7 Full Menu Breakfast Anytime!

Hwy 19 near I-20

903-567-6551

www.dairypalace.com

Rocket Fizz Takes Guests Down Memory Lane more than that — it was a vision. So much so that not only is he the owner of a thriving new business, he also works as a wholesaler, supplying numerous businesses and also functions as a Rocket Fizz ambassador, advising those who seek to open their own franchises.

Not only that, but Farmer’s approach to his business is unique.

“I love making people smile,” he said, a phrase he not only says with sincerity, but is actually a summation of his mission statement. “We strive to inspire awe in others.”

By Jeremy Light Sometimes the only thing to make someone’s day is to provide them with a time machine — a passageway to a time that at least seems easier and happier than the present. Rocket Fizz, a Tyler candy, soda, and novelty shop, provides all of the above.

Steve Farmer might not strike anyone as a successful businessman at first glance, but that impression is quickly dissipated once he is engaged in conversation. Vibrant and energetic, Farmer is exceptionally knowledgeable, and, perhaps most importantly, deeply caring about his community.

On a quite-by-chance venture to Califor-

Back Porch continued from page 32 zling hot, and the Texas toothpicks, my personal favorite, which are delectable strips of onion and jalapeno coated with mildly spicy batter and fried perfectly.

There are also usual appetizer favorites such as cheese fries, chicken wings, and onion rings. Any of these is a perfect beginning for the main courses, of which any are excellent choices.

Even though it may sound like a basic menu option, the grilled chicken sandwich is truly wonderful, quite honestly one of the best I have ever tasted. And I am certainly not alone in this, as the sandwich is well-known throughout East Tex-

nia, Farmer discovered not only Rocket Fizz’s unique status as a business, but its solid potential as a growth industry here in the heart of East Texas.

Hoping to open the first franchise in Texas, Farmer found himself stymied by lenders reticent to support new businesses, particularly after the colossal financial meltdown in 2010. Farmer, however, was not a businessman to be deterred, even to the point of selling his Mustang and riding a bicycle.

He also had the support of friends and family.

“I had a dream, and they could see how serious I was,” Farmer says.

He soon proved that his dream was as. You can also select buffalo, turkey, or tuna as a melt, with hot cheeses to accompany these tender and juicy meats. There are also a variety of burgers, made from pure Angus beef, as well as steak finger dinners and a variety of chicken dishes.

There are also plenty of healthy choices to select from including fresh made salads and light dinners for those who choose a more health-conscious approach to lunch or dinner. And while you are selecting your meal, you can enjoy a tasty potent potable from the bar. Great food, drinks, atmosphere, and music. It works. The Back Porch is a special treasure in the Upper East Side of Texas.

Farmer has chairs outside his store inviting guests of all ages come to just relax and release. It has almost become a hang out joint. Quite often the crowd seen outside have all selected special drinks and treats, and enjoy fellowship with one another.

This awe affects almost anyone who walks through the door of Rocket Fizz.

There are so many choices, from Moxie cola, to pure sugar cane chocolate sodas, Blackjack gum, Chinese Black Black gum, a wall of limitless taffy and candy for an insanely low five dollars per bag and sepia-toned posters and vintage metal signs of almost innumerable variety. Also interesting is that the store never seems the same twice. The variety makes the establishment truly a wonder to behold.

His business is likely to be seen at a variety of community events, including reading programs and Boy Scout Pineywoods Derby. This commitment to excellence in product and love for community is truly what makes Farmer a valuable addition to Tyler.

With ComicCon quickly becoming a fixture here in East Texas, Rocket Fizz will likely increase its market share and the number of smiles seen around the already friendly atmosphere and great vibe in the store. Almost everyone is always in a good mood making that practically half the point of a visit.

Farmer’s fun-loving spirit and encyclopedic knowledge of candy and soda and all those things that bring back memories of younger days are ever present and the best reason to check out Rocket Fizz.

Living Room Wilhite Landscape Hosts Spring Photography Contest Wilhite Landscape is hosting a photo contest called “My East Texas Spring.”

Photos for the contest should capture spring scenes in East Texas.

The deadline is May 31, with one first place winner. The winner will receive a $100 gift certificate to Blue Moon Gardens, located in Chandler.

Contestants must live in East Texas and all spring scenes should be taken in the East Texas area. Contestants must be 18 years or older to participate or have parental permission.

Contestants will submit photos to the Photo Contest App on Wilhite Landscape’s Facebook page located at https://www.facebook.com/WilhiteLandscape. One photo per contestant is accepted. Photos are judged on the

2014 Parade of Homestm

June 7-15, 2014

Saturdays 10 am - 6 pm, Sundays 2-6 pm Monday - Thursday 5-8 pm, Friday 3-8 pm

Save the Date June 7-15 TylerAreaBuilders.com

27,000 sq ft home decor warehouse at wholesale prices. Open to the public.

34 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

number of “likes” received, but the final selection is at the discretion of Wilhite’s panel of judges.

Contestants are encouraged to “share” the photos to their personal Facebook wall and encourage their friends to vote by clicking the “like” button.

All contestants must provide an email address with entry.

Wilhite Landscape offers a complete line of outdoor services for residential and commercial clients including landscaping, lawn care, water features, patios, drainage systems, retaining walls, walkways, garden and holiday lighting.

Founded in 1983, the company assembled the best landscape and horticultural team to serve East Texas customers to ensure total satisfaction. Their office is located at 13186 Highway 64 West in Tyler.

For more information, call 903.593.5975 and visit www.wilhitelandscape.com.

| 903.865.1235

www.DandPInteriors.com 21504 Interstate 20 |Canton, TX

May 1-4 May 29-June 1 July 3-6

County Line Marketplace Get ready for summer by getting organized!

Call me today for help in clearing the clutter, and organizing your home, garage, or office.

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Life With Pets

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Bring your dog to shop for basics and discover unique items from Molly Mutt, PetKiss, AromaPaws and more.

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To advertise, call 903.963.8306 or email sales@countylinemagazine.com

GON WHEEL WAANTIQUE MALL Jan Adamson Canton: 903.567.0390 Lake Fork: 903.473.1776

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We Sell Cars for Less Ray Ridings Buick GMC Canton, Texas 903-567-4131 www.RayRidings.com

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We BUY cars too!

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by County Line Magazine readers

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Open 7 Days, Mon-Sat 10-6, Sun 1-5

903-469-4321 7150 SH 31E • Murchison MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 35 www.wagonwheelantiquemall.com

Paul Michael Company Expands Home Decor Experience

By P.A. Geddie Paul Michael Company recently opened new doors to a two-story, 60,000 square foot building next to their existing store on Highway 19 near Interstate 20 in Canton.

The facility is filled with antiques, furniture, and hand-made recycled home decor.

The store is in a long line of successes for entrepreneurs Paul and Debbie Michael who have kept ahead of merchandise trends for more than 40 years.

As a young man Paul Michael began working in his grandfather’s department store in the rural, Mississippi Delta town of Lake Village, Arkansas, and discovered his natural talent in the art of buying, selling, and trading.

In 1972 while he was in school in Memphis he began making the rounds at flea markets.

“I got to where I was doing the flea markets almost every weekend,” he said. “Memphis on the third, Nashville on the fourth and then come to Texas. There were things you could by in Nashville that people wanted in Texas and vice versus.”

Soon he left his accountant studies which PHOTOS. Top: Paul Michael’s interior designer Lucia Deen put together this great idea for a living room using pieces available in the store. At left: Paul and Debbie Michael are perfect partners in creating success for their business. • One of Paul’s new items are these geode slices carefully contained in wood frames.

• The exclusive Adirondack Ski Chairs. • Another beautiful display gives shoppers great ideas for transforming their homes.

36 • CountyLineMagazine.com • MAY/JUNE 2014

never suited him, and began “buying here and selling there” at flea markets full time.

He really enjoyed First Monday Trade Days in Canton, selling Indian jewelry and gold at the time, and this was really the start of his business.

Three years later he met Debbie in a popular antique clothing shop in Nashville.

She too had a background in merchandising having grown up traveling around the country in the five-and-dime merchant’s tradition.

Their interests and personalities fit very well — he the visionary and developer and she with the business and sales savvy — and thus began their journey.

Together they developed a line of jewelry that ended up in department stores all over the country.

“Paul doesn’t know how to do anything little,” Debbie said.

They sold their interest in the department store jewelry in 1990.

“I had a residue of merchandise left over and took it to Canton,” Paul said. I came in February and sold out of the trunk of my car. I did so well I came back the next month and got a booth and I’ve been coming every since.”

Over the years the couple dabbled in a variety of products they knew shoppers wanted like tooled leather bags from Paraguay and copper pots and pans which is how they entered the world of home decor.

On the First Monday grounds they even-

tually rented 15 booths in the first Arbors building.

“That’s when we really started selling a lot down here,” Paul said. “We finally gave up that space in 2000 and built our own building down on the grounds.”

Although they still have their building and offerings on the grounds, in addition, they bought land and built their own store in its present location to be open every day.

They had already launched a store in his hometown of Lake Village, Arkansas, and another in Monroe, Louisiana, in 2003.

They opened the Canton store in 2006 and a fourth location in Lafayette in 2009.

The recent Canton expansion comes after researching the market and finding they have even more to offer people looking for home decor in the region.

“We feel this part of the country is a really special place in that it’s so growable,” Paul said. “I predict that East Texas in general is going to be a very fast-growing part of the country. There’s a workforce here, no state income tax in Texas, and it’s just a very favorable place to do business. At some point you’ll see exponential growth and it’s going to multiply at a pretty high rate. We’ve got a lot of our future and our fortune invested in this town and in East Texas.”

In Texas or elsewhere, Paul and Debbie remain committed to their partnership and the strengths that each brings to the table.

“We count on Paul to lead the way,” Debbie says, “because he’s quite the visionary. Often our business has grown in ways it never would because he takes a big leap of faith and get’s in to a product that we just don’t understand and it ends up being a huge hit.

He’s got guts.”

Paul agrees to a point. “Sometimes it does not end up being a bit hit —- sometimes it winds up being a dismal failure. If you are going to create you have to be willing to fail, you can’t be afraid to fail.”

One of Paul’s leaps of faith involved a bunch of European snow skis he found at a show in Ohio. He bought 5,000 of them to Debbie’s dismay.

“What! Are you crazy?” she said. “Why?” To which he replies, “I don’t know. They needed to be bought.”

Before long he sees something that triggers his creativity and he and his head carpenter have designed them into chairs which are now a very popular item in the store.

Recycling and repurposing items like the skis is at the top of their list these days in the items they provide their shoppers. They are manufacturing American-made furniture in a factory in Dermott, Arkansas, were Paul really gets to put his creative mind to work.

“One art form influences another,” he said.

“Our creativity is about a team of people. We feel everybody has that within them.”

While Paul is the visionary he said he never achieved much until he married Debbie.

“She’s a perfect partner for me,” he said.

“Where I fall short she pulls up the slack.”

While Paul’s purchases sometimes still rattle her until she sees the finished product, Debbie appreciates his talents which allow her to do what she loves.

“I love the selling part,” she said. “I’m thrilled to see the joy on our customers faces when they are going to receive it into their home. It feels good to be surrounded by beautiful things.”

They both feel fortunate to do work they love while bringing fun and useful home decor to their customers and because of that plan to continue this journey for a long time to come.

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www.visitcorsicana.com MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 37

FEEL GOOD: making a difference Children’s Advocacy Center Raising Awareness Of Abuse It is the birthright of every child to be loved, protected and nurtured. It is also a child’s right to grow up healthy and with their boundaries intact. That is why it is the mission of Children’s Advocacy Center of Van Zandt County to reduce trauma to child victims through the simple but powerful concept of coordination between community agencies and the law enforcement professionals involved in the investigation and intervention of child abuse and trauma. Children’s Advocacy Center of Van Zandt County (CACVZC) constantly strives to provide child victims and their care-givers the opportunity for justice, help, hope and healing.

Children’s Advocacy Centers of Texas was founded in 1994 with just 13 centers across Texas.

Today there are 168 centers statewide, both urban and rural, serving 162 counties. CACVZC serves Van Zandt County with a volunteer board of directors, staff of three, numerous volunteers through the unique coordination and communication between local law enforcement, Child Protection Services (CPS) and district prosecution. The center is funded by state and federal grants as well as generous community donors made up of individuals, businesses and civic organizations. It truly takes the commitment of an entire community to serve the most vulnerable in our society, our children.

giving their statement at a police station, social service office or hospital, children and their families come to one safe place: the Children’s Advocacy Center. It is there they experience a loving and safe environment, a passion for justice, and hope for healing. It is at the Children’s Advocacy Center that Child Protective Services, law enforcement, medical specialists, prosecutors and therapists come together to work toward the justice and healing of each child.

cal and emotional needs encountered due to the abuse or trauma. Children and families walk into the Children’s Advocacy Center in crisis and it is the family advocate’s desire that they leave with hope and that stability and safety are within their grasp. The center’s family advocate has an extensive list of resources and contacts to refer families from the very basic of needs to the more complex.

The family advocate is dedicated to seeing the family through from interview to prosecution.

At the very heart of Children’s Advocacy Center of Van Zandt County is the forensic interview conducted by a specially trained forensic interviewer in a childfriendly and safe environment. This is the first step in the investigation of a child abuse case and the first step to healing for the child. Every victim of abuse has a story that must be told. It is the center’s role to provide the unique, child-friendly environment along with the professional investigative interview to secure the forensic statement.

Children’s Advocacy Center of Van Zandt County believes mental health therapy through licensed counseling is the key to the healing process for every child of abuse and trauma. Children’s Advocacy Center of Van Zandt County draws from a list of well-trained, trauma focused licensed professional counselors throughout Van Zandt County in which to refer their clients based on each family’s individual needs and location within the County.

This recorded interview is used by CPS, law enforcement and the District Attorney’s office in an effort to prevent the child from having to tell their story over and over, essentially the prevention of retraumatizing the child. It is the forensic interview that often provides the necessary evidence to kick off the investigation that may lead to criminal prosecution of the offender, thus, providing justice for the advocacy services are another key component of Children’s Advocacy Center’s direct services.

Children’s Advocacy Center of Van Zandt County’s mission is to minimize the trauma children face when it is discovered they are victims of abuse. Instead of

The family advocate works with the nonoffending family members to assess physi-

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CACVZC not only wants to reduce the trauma of child abuse but also desires to prevent it. Education for both children and adults is the only solution to stopping the cycle of abuse and neglect.

Children in Van Zandt County are presented awareness programs at schools, daycare and church youth programs.

These educational programs teach children what abuse is, that it is okay to tell an adult “No” if they are made to feel uncomfortable or being harmed, and to tell a trusted adult if they or someone they know are being hurt. Adult education programs are available for educators, parents, community members, church youth staff and center volunteers that teach how to recognize and report child abuse.

Continuing education credits are available for adults who are mandated by State law to receive child abuse awareness training.

Why should communities support their local child advocate agencies like Children’s Advocacy Center, Child Protective Services, CASA, Child Welfare Board, ABC Room and the East Texas Crisis Center? The late Nelson Mandela said it best, “There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.”

In Texas, 185 children are abused in a single day. In one year, 65,000 cases of child abuse are confirmed. One in four girls are sexually abused by age 18; and one in six boys are abused by their 18th birthday.

To donate, schedule an education program, or find out how to get involved, contact Children’s Advocacy Center of Van Zandt County, 547 S. Buffalo Street, Canton, TX 75103, phone 903.567.1212 or email cac@etcable.net.

To report suspected child abuse in Texas call 800.252.5400 and callers can remain anonymous. Outside of Texas, visit www. onewithcourage.org for a list of resources.

Pegasus Project Holds Event to Help Save Horses

The Pegasus Project, Inc., a Texas-based, 501(c)(3) non-profit horse rescue organization is holding a fundraiser June 7 near Ben Wheeler.

Raffle Under Way To Raise Funds For Junior League

The Junior League of Lufkin’s big raffle is in progress. The League is selling tickets, $5 each or three for $10, for chances to win several items donated by locally owned businesses.

WH IT ENING

beautiful lasting change

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C OSM ETI C D ENT ISTRY

Money raised from the raffle is put to work in Angelina County supporting various league projects, namely the Back to School Bonanza, where children are able to come and receive a haircut, immunization update, eye exam, dental exam and a backpack filled with school supplies to start the year off right.

Tickets are sold at various locations in Lufkin not limited to Brookshire Brothers, Downtown Hoedown, and Crown Colony Country Club. Winners are announced at the Lufkin Chamber of Commerce Power Networking Breakfast on May 16. For more information, visit www. juniorleagueoflufkin.org.

The organization facilitates the seizure, rehabilitation and adoption of abused, abandoned, and neglected equine in East Texas. For a small number of special-needs horses, the 95-acre Pegasus Project ranch becomes a life-long sanctuary. Since Allyson and Mike DeCanio founded The Pegasus Project in 2009, the organization has personally rehabilitated and adopted out more than 60 equine and was instrumental in the rescue and placement of more than 50 others.

Funds, Scholarships Given From Hay Show Proceeds

The Pegasus Project completely relies upon private donations for its funding.

The June 7 event promises a fun time for a great cause. It feature a number of airplanes and helicopters and rides for kids.

They’ll have fun horse games and competitions, including horse poop bingo, stick races, horse painting, and other fun activities. The Pegasus horses are available to meet and pet, and photo opportunities are available with their Pegasus wingedhorse.

The Cherokee County Scholarship Fund presented five $1,000 scholarships during the annual Cherokee County Jr. Livestock Show in late March. A total of 13 scholarships will be given from proceeds of the annual Hay Show and Sale. The 2014 annual Hay Show and Sale takes place October 21.

A silent auction includes original artwork, western wear, trips and Southwest airline tickets and a $5000 vintage saddle will be raffled! Admission includes dinner catered by Villa Montez, beer, wine, sodas, water, and a live concert by Heather Little and Matt Bradshaw. Tickets at the door are $50 for adults, $25 for kids 8-17, free under 8. Advance discount tickets are available on the website, www.PegasusRescue.org.

for

J. Brandon Allen, D.D.S Randy Bell, D.D.S. 903.675.3811 208 Crestway Street, Athens crestwayparkdental.com

The Agri-Business Committee of the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce recently donated funds from the 2013 Annual Hay Show and Sale.

The Cherokee County Soil and Water Conservation and the Cherokee County Exposition Center each received $2,643.57. The Cherokee County Scholarship Fund received a total of $5,287.14.

Serving on the Agri-Business Committee are Roland Adams and Charles Dickerson, co-chairs; Debbie Kerzee (Community Development Division chair), Kris Sturrock (chair of the board), Tam Nannen (chair-elect of the board) and committee members Aaron Low, Randy Gorham, David Butler, Bruce Mehlenbacher and Bryon Underwood.

McRae Honored For Part in Job Shadowing Event

The Adopt-A-School Committee recently awarded Tim McRae of Bill McRae Ford an appreciation as a major supporter of

the Adopt-A-School Job Shadowing event of the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce.

Job Shadowing is an annual event where Jacksonville High School juniors and seniors are shadowed by businesses in Jacksonville. Working with the Jacksonville Independent School District and local businesses is very important to place the 108 students that were shadowed this year.

The Adopt-A-School Committee gives two $1,000 scholarships to a student whose parents are employed by a member of the chamber.

Serving on the Adopt-A-School Committee are Vance Royon (chair), Pam Anderson (Education Development Division), and members Janis Adams, Pamelia Adams, Cheryl Adamson, Patsy McLeod, Susan Phillips, Julie Robinson, Judy Terry and Kris Sturrock (chairwoman of the board) and Tam Nannen (chair-elect of the board).

For additional information, contact the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce at 903.586.2217.

MAY/JUNE 2014 • CountyLineMagazine.com • 39

Enjoy Shopping, Dining, Entertainment, Nature & History in Mineola, Texas!

Acoustic Music on the Streets

EVERY SATURDAY! Johnson St. Gazebo or Peterson Park 11 a.m.

Main Street Farmers Market

Saturdays, 7:30-11 a.m. (or until they run out) Pavilion West of Depot on Front Street

JUNEbilee June 6 & 7

Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Carnival. Vendors. Concert.

Mineola Civic Center

July 4th Celebration Entertainment, Food, Free Fireworks Mineola Civic Center

Mineola Nature Preserve 7 a.m. until sunset Equestrian. Hiking.

Biking Trails.

P h o t o g r a phe r s Pa r a d i s e .

B i r dw a t c he r s D r e a m .

www.mineolanaturepreserve.com 1.800.646.3652

Visit the Mineola Historical Museum

114 Pacific St (Hwy. 69). Free. Open Thur, Fri, Sat 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

1.800.MINEOLA • www.mineola.com D e s i g na t ed daily s t o p • am t r a k Te x a s E a g le • 1. 8 0 0 . 6 6 9 . 8 5 0 9