County Line Magazine March/April 2016

county line UPPER EAST SIDE OF TEXAS

MARCH/APRIL 2016

M A G A Z I N E

BRANDON MAXWELL Fashion Designer Making Women Feel Beautiful

COMPLIMENTARY COPY

TO SUBSCRIBE SEE PAGE 19

COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM

KAREN MUSGRAVES CONNIE MIMS PINKERTON IRISH EAST TEXAS WRITING ON THE WALLS CHIHULY EXHIBIT LONGVIEW BALLET CHINN GUITARS HAP AND LEONARD OUTSTANDING WOMEN TRAILS OF NORTHEAST TEXAS

Real East Texas Events

July 22-24, 2016 www.GTBR.net

Longview Rodeo April 15-16, 2016

Harvest Festival Crawfish Boil

T-Bone Walker Blues Festival

April 23, 2016

June 3-4, 2016

Fireworks Festival and Freedom Celebration July 4, 2016

Longview Kennel Club Dog Show July 29-31, 2016

56th Annual

Come for a visit or stay a while. Longview Texas is home to exciting events throughout the year. Watch balloons soar overhead during the Great Texas Balloon Race, catch the best blues artists around at the T-Bone Walker Blues Festival, or see the biggest fireworks show in East Texas during the July 4th Fireworks and Freedom Festival.

JUROR JOEY

BLAZEK

VisitLongviewTexas.com | 903.753.3281 300 W. Cotton St., Longview, TX 75601

Rafael Espinoza and the Mineola Civic Center present

tribute to the

Million Dollar Quartet Featuring Josh Davis as Elvis, Blake Schneider as Jerry Lee Lewis, Jake Penrod as Carl Perkins, and Rafael Espinoza as Johnny Cash.

Exhibit Opening

March 6 // 2 to 4 pm Exhibit will remain up through Saturday, March 26.

Doors open 6:45 p.m. Show 7:30 p.m.

Advance tickets $20/Students 18 and under $10 available at Rafael Espinoza Music Academy, Mineola City Hall, Civic Center and Chamber. All tickets at the door $25.

APRIL 23 • Mineola Civic Center, 1150 N. Newsom • 903.638.8023 2 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

903.753.8103 • LMFA.org 215 E. Tyler St. • Longview, TX 75601

ATHENS, TEXAS Welcome to Our Backyard

Scenic Drives, Local Wineries, Art Galleries, Shopping, Fishing, Zipline Tours, Nature Trails, Farmers’ Market Year-Round Events at Henderson County Regional Fair Park n SECOND SATURDAY: Bird & Nature Walk March 5: Home & Garden Show n March 12: Fly Fish Texas March 19, APril 23, May 14: Black Beauty Ranch Tours April 9: 6th Annual Athens Eggfest n May 7: Cinco de Mayo Celebration May 27-28: Annual Old Fiddler’s Contest and Reunion

Stay & Play!

For information about hotels and upcoming events, 1-888-294-2847 MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 3 www.AthensTX.org/CLM5

CONTENTS

STAGE

6

28 28 29 29

Charlotte’s Web at ArtsView Shakespeare Festival Marks 30 Years Longview Ballet Sandy Duncan Returns to Neverland

Photo by Joel Barhamand

FILM

30 Author’s Mystery Thriller Leads to TV Mini-Series

LITERARY 32 Noteworthy Reads: Money and Heart by Jana Pochop Herb Remedies by Carolyn Gibson Unspinning the Spin by Rosalie Maggio 33 Poetry by Emily McAdams, Cheyenne Cruz, Bailey Ross, Claudia Garcia

MUSIC

10

14

34 Guitar Gifts are Life Changing for Kids

By Steve Freeman 35 Beatles Tribute Band, Tanya Tucker, and Tom Paxton 36 Keb’ Mo’ Headlines June Blues Festival 36 Music Listings

FOOD & DRINK

38 Lemon-Thyme Braised Chicken 38 East Texas Train Sets The Pullman Table 38 Local Winery Wins Multiple Awards

EXPLORE

40 Springtime Beckons a Walk, Run, or Ride

By LouAnn Campbell

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

6 Maxwell’s Designs

5 Editor’s Note 5 Letters

What this New York fashion designer needed to know about class and beauty he learned in his native Longview.

By P.A. Geddie

THIS TIME OF YEAR

Make Women Feel Beautiful

Artist’s work shines a spotlight on things rural and ravishing.

By MeLissa Baker

14 Singer-Songwriter Builds Creative Communities

Connie Mims Pinkerton lives and loves the irony of humble creativity.

By Tom Geddie

44 Outstanding Women Honored in Tyler

county line UPPER EAST SIDE OF TEXAS

18 18 19 19

10 Musgraves Continues Family Gift of Creativity

FEEL GOOD

National Puppy Day April in Edom Women’s History Month Milestones of Music’s Stuart Hamblen and Johnny Horton

MARCH/APRIL 2016

M A G A Z I N E

BRANDON MAXWELL Fashion Designer Making Women Feel Beautiful

CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT 20

21 22

25

Irish Legacy Alive in East Texas

By Steve Freeman Events Writing on the Walls

By Steve Freeman Life Lines

By LouAnn Campbell

THE ARTS

26 Red River Shares Art, Wine & Music 26 Musgraves Gives Funds for Fine Arts 27 Chihuly Returns for TMA’s Anniversary

COMPLIMENTARY COPY

TO SUBSCRIBE SEE PAGE 19

COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM

KAREN MUSGRAVES CONNIE MIMS PINKERTON IRISH EAST TEXAS WRITING ON THE WALLS CHIHULY EXHIBIT LONGVIEW BALLET CHINN GUITARS HAP AND LEONARD OUTSTANDING WOMEN TRAILS OF NORTHEAST TEXAS

COVER: Fashion designer Brandon Maxwell with model Taylor Hill wearing one of his dresses during a runway show in New York. Photo by Fernando Leon / Getty Images

SEE WEBSITE EXTRAS! www.CountyLineMagazine.com 4 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

fl&g +

county line Since 2000

MAGAZINE

PUBLISHER & MANAGING EDITOR P.A. Geddie CONTRIBUTORS Steve Freeman LouAnn Campbell MeLissa Baker Tom Geddie Emily Adams Cheyenne Cruz Bailey Ross Claudia Garcia COPY EDITORS Steve Freeman Jill Couchman GRAPHIC DESIGN & PRINT PRODUCTION P.A. Geddie ADMINISTRATION Annette O’Brien DISTRIBUTION Tom Geddie David Michelina County Line Magazine is published every other month, 6 times 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 2016 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.

Serving the Upper East Side of Texas

EDITOR’S NOTE Dear Readers, Turn the pages here and find lot’s of fun things to do to help usher in spring in the Upper East Side of Texas. Long gone are the days when people said “there’s nothing to do around here.” And it’s something new and different all the time!

Through the people we meet and get to know in this issue it seems the world is getting a little smaller as we share kinships with subscribers, fashion designers, ballet troupes, and others in of all places New York City as well as other people and places throughout the country. It is thrilling to see that our little piece of the world is getting noticed for the arts and the talented people that claim it as home.

I enjoyed interviewing Brandon Maxwell who grew up in Longview and is now considered one of the top fashion

designers to watch. His down-to-earth commitment to family and friends keeps him thinking about East Texas often he says and he opened up my eyes to the glamour he witnessed growing up here.

While his clothing line is sure to make women feel beautiful, the simplicity of the outfits are what impresses me most and owning a Brandon Maxwell design is now on my bucket list.

Another fascinating East Texan in this issue is the talented artist Karen Musgraves.

The best place to check out her colorful work is at a solo show she’s doing April 7 at Lott Interior Design in Tyler.

And then there’s Connie Mims, and downtown wall murals, and Los Pinos Winery, and Ken Chinn, and the list of people and places worth knowing goes on and on.

P.A. Geddie Publisher & Managing Editor

LETTERS Dear Editor, I live on the Lower East Side of New York City but didn’t always. I also get about a zillion magazines in the mail and the only two I read all the way through are yours and the one from the BBC. Today I actually had three copies of New York Magazine come in. Have no idea why. But I know I enjoy yours a bunch more.

Hank O’Neal New York (formerly of Kilgore) I have loved this publication for years, but have always depended on getting it by picking it up at some place that had a stand for free. I missed many issues because of this. And then also, I always felt guilty getting something for free that I enjoyed so much. Always thought I would get the address and mail a check — never made time, but always made time to try

to find that free issue. One of my friends posted an article from County Line on Facebook. When I opened the link to read it, voila, right at top of page was the word “subscribe.” And I did immediately — three years —won’t miss another issue.

County Line is the best written, informative publication about our our East Texas area. Hope everyone that enjoys it and uses it to keep up with local events takes the time to subscribe — they sure deserve the support.

Connie Lovelady, Athens I really enjoy your magazine — you are doing a great job.

Nancy Buchanan, Canton I really like your magazine and rely on it to find interesting things to do in the area.

Kathy Bell, Longview

CHECK OUT COUNTY LINE DIGITAL PUBLICATIONS @ www.CountyLineMagazine.com Responsive eMagazine works great on DESKTOPS, PADS, and MOBILE PHONES! Set up a SHORT CUT TO THE COUNTY LINE ON YOUR DEVICES! Subscribe to the Weekender to receive in your email every Thursday!

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 5

Brandon Maxwell’s Fashion Designs Make Women Feel Beautiful

By P.A. Geddie This spring an exciting new brand of ready-to-wear fashion takes center stage in display windows of fine department stores across the nation, including Saks Fifth Avenue in Dallas. The creator of this women’s clothing line is 31-year-old Longview native Brandon Maxwell.

Maxwell premiered his designs at a runway show in New York in September and his powerful style is now showing up on models, music and movie stars all over the planet: Lady Gaga in his one-shoulder gown at the 67th Emmy Awards; Gwyneth Paltrow in his wave top and pencil skirt at Variety magazine’s Power of Women Luncheon; Kristen Wiig in his blush bustier top suit with wide leg trouser at the premiere of her new movie, Nasty Baby; Uma Thurman in his custom midi dress at the New York premiere of Burnt; Kate Hudson in his white crepe wave tuxedo at the American Cinematheque Awards; and numerous famous models at events in Paris and other parts of the world.

He’s come a long way from East Texas.

In his early years Maxwell was surrounded by an ambitious and fashionable family. He often saw his parents, Pam Woolley and Mike Maxwell, get all dressed up and head out for the evening to support charities and other dressy-attired events.

He watched his dad find success in the business world and says his mother is the ultimate definition of class and beauty.

“I was told that right after she had me she got her hair and nails done,” Maxwell said.

His mother wasn’t the only one that introduced young Maxwell to beautiful clothes and appearance and how good they could make a woman feel. He spent many hours after school with his grandmother, Louise Johnson, where she worked at Riff’s, a women’s apparel store.

“They sold evening wear, pearls, and shoes,” Maxwell recalls.

“I saw a lot of beauty and women dressing up and I was always surrounded by that. I enjoyed working the cash register and watching my grandmother. From the time I was born I stuck close to her and needed to see her every day after school.”

As a child Maxwell preferred the arts over sports.

“I liked plays and musicals and anything in the arts,” he said.

“Anything that was creative.”

Brandon Maxwell’s first original designs for women’s fashion are now available at Saks Fifth Avenue and other fine department stores and boutiques across the nation. Photo by Inez and Vinoodh.

Kennedy. She taught me everything and let me know anything was possible. She had a lot of love and care for the students and the art of photography.”

One of Maxwell’s favorite things to do in his teens was to help his girlfriends do their hair and makeup and go buy clothes at the Army Navy store and help them dress up, then take their pictures with various backgrounds around town.

“I wasn’t good at soccer and baseball so that was my hobby. It’s just what I always did.”

Maxwell took off for New York at 18 years old to study painting at Marymount Manhattan College. For his junior year he came back to Texas and studied photography at St. Edward’s University in Austin.

After graduation, Maxwell began interning at a local fashion magazine in Austin.

“That’s when I figured out it wasn’t about taking the picture, it was about making the dress, then taking the photo. It was the full experience that I enjoyed.”

At around 12 years old he formed an interest in photography.

It didn’t take long before Maxwell knew he needed to go back to New York to fulfill his dream to work in the fashion industry.

“I entered competitions and had an amazing teacher, Neina

“I love Texas so much and wanted to stay there but it became

6 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

Maxwell’s dresses are showing up on runways and stages around the world. Models pictured are wearing (l-r) long sleeve wave top and pencil skirt with wave detail, custom black one shoulder wave gown, and blush asymmetrical bell-sleeve dress. Photos by Fernando Leon / Getty Images.

clear I could not get a job doing want I really love and I would probably find myself bored over time.”

In New York — with very little experience under his belt — he got a weak resume together and started sending out copies.

“I woke up every day and mailed my resume and tried for months to get a job, eating on quarters trying to figure it out. I’m thankful I was so naïve cause had I known the struggles maybe I wouldn’t have taken that route.”

His first break came when just a few months into his job search he was hired by a stylist — someone that puts together outfits using other designers’ clothes.

Stylist Deborah Afshani first offered him an internship, then hired him after one week.

“She was such a kind-hearted, respectful person and taught me a lot,” Maxwell said. “She took a chance on me. I learned a lot about the industry. She’s sort of responsible for the great things that happened.”

After a year together Maxwell decided it was time to move on to something else and Afshani was eager to support him and recommended him to other stylists.

For the next few years he assisted others like Edward Enninful and in 2010 he went to work for Nicola Formichetti, who was then Lady Gaga’s stylist, creating ensembles like the Franc Fernandez-designed meat dress for the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards. Maxwell was there to stitch it up in the back.

When Formichetti moved on in his career in 2012, Maxwell stepped in as Lady Gaga’s stylist full time.

Although sometimes credited with taking Lady Gaga’s look from the more rebellious outfits like the meat dress to a glamorous one seen more recently on various stages and on tour with Tony Bennett during their “Cheek to Cheek” tour, Maxwell says his work with Gaga is a creative partnership — he doesn’t dictate what dress to wear.

“We’ve been friends for so long and I assisted in styling for her for years,” he said. “People grow and evolve and go different directions. We still do a lot of things together and have a very personal relationship with each other. She’s a really great beauty and that’s the way I see her and I tend to go there with the styling.”

At some point along the way, Maxwell found he couldn’t quite get the look he was going for when using other people’s

styles to create outfits for women. Longing for that timeless elegance he grew up with he set out and accomplished the creation of his own designs.

“It was always my dream to do it,” Maxwell said, “I really didn’t think it was a possibility for me. I worked for so many designers. Some people doubted if I could do it and that held me back. I realized it’s the only thing that makes me happy and free. I knew I couldn’t wait any longer.”

Part of Maxwell’s vision for women’s fashion is to get to know his customers and what they like and to grow with them. He wants his customers to come back in every season and get more of his clothes he designs with them in mind.

“I hope we have a long future ahead of us and grow with women and become a brand people want in their lives.”

Words fashion writers use to describe his designs include “powerful, for strong women, classic elegance, chic, waist-hugging, glamorous, elegant.” To him, he always thinks about the customer and making sure she is happy.

“I see a lot of things when I look at them.

Every piece is personal for me. Coming continued Page 9

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 7

RELAX. REJUVENATE. RETIRE. Historic & Natural Mineola Texas

Birding Capital of East Texas

ENJOY AN ADVENTURE

Mineola Nature 7Preserve a.m. until sunset at the

HIKING AND BIKING TRAILS P H O T O G R A P H E R S PA R A D I S E B I G F O O T PA D D L I N G T R A I L BIRDWATC HING EQUESTRIAN RIDES FISHING PONDS

1.800.646.3652 or 903.569.6183 www.mineolanaturepreserve.com

8 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

Brandon Maxwell is just as comfortable in New York surrounded by fabric and women’s clothing as he was at an early age in a small boutique in Longview and now he gets to live out his dream of designing his own brand. Photo by Joel Barhamand.

MAXWELL continued from page 7 from a small town — even though I saw the glamorous side — I respect people putting a good amount of money in to what they wear.”

Maxwell said he gets to Longview often and Longview is often with him no matter where he is in the world.

“It’s one of my favorite places. I’ve been to a lot of cities in the world and I think Longview and Austin are two of the best in the world. All my memories, friends and family are there. It’s a place where I can just relax and feel normal and get to see everyone.”

When he’s not visiting in Longview, some of his family and friends are often with him in New York.

“Every single best friend and every person in my life are all from home. At my show you’ll see 50 people there from East Texas. I never forget where I come from and the people that made me who I am. It’s stressful, hard work and it helps me get by to have them with me.

There’s always one of my parents with me or one of multiple friends or family.

I talk to them every day.”

Longview. I never would have known what the dreams were if I hadn’t clued in to people who helped find who I am.”

He has two brothers and two sisters and his dad runs his company.

One of those endearing people is his Mamaw Johnson who still collects fashion magazines, Maxwell said, and shares in his excitement of seeing the seed that was planted a long time ago in a small-town boutique starting to blossom. Now days she’s likely to discover one of her grandson’s creations as she’s flipping through the pages.

“He’s an incredible business man,” Maxwell said. “He held my hand through the whole process and we’re on the phone every day.”

Maxwell said his growing up in East Texas and the people that believed in him along the way are key to finding his dream job and he offers advice to other young people in the region.

“I think about it every day and how fortunate I am to be from Longview and finding great success. You have to find that area that’s your niche, your place, and find the people that like and support you. When you are a kid you need to know this is not the rest of your life.

You can go somewhere else, but learn to be happy where you are. Find people that believe in you. So many things I’ve done would not have been possible without the support of people in

“I’m very proud,” Maxwell said. “It’s a dream come true to open up a magazine and see a dress I made.”

Smart, powerful women helped shape and form Maxwell’s life and now he’s happy to give women something that contributes to the fabric of their lives.

“I’m trying to make women feel beautiful. It’s the best way to express your self without having to say anything. You have to wear clothes so you might as well wear something amazing.”

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 9

Musgraves Continues Family Gift of Creativity

By MeLissa Baker Karen Musgraves is down-to-earth, good-natured country girl and gifted artist from Golden, Texas. She co-owns a small print and graphic design shop — MPrints Printing, Inc., — in Mineola and she and her husband Craig live happily on their 40 acres where they care for their four dogs, cat and 28 chickens. She is also mom to two talented daughters, photographer Kelly Sutton and country music artist Kacey Musgraves.

Musgraves’ humble and genuine personality only make this talented artist — whose work shines a spotlight on things rural and ravishing — seem more appealing. With an artistic style with blends of Fauvism, Spontaneous Realism and Pop Art, her brand is bold, colorful and country at heart. Her portraits of Mick Jagger and Willie Nelson are reminiscent of Matisse’s Green Stripe, while synchronously nostalgic of Andy Warhol’s Technicolor portraiture.

When it comes to canvas size, bigger is better and time is on her side.

“I work on my paintings a little at a time,” she said. “I have pieces I started years ago but haven’t finished,” she admitted. “I just enjoy every one of them.”

Musgraves credits her mother and aunts’ creative ability for her gift, and her second grade teacher for igniting her passion for painting. Henri Matisse, Bogdan and Voka are among her favorite artists and when she’s drawing an artistic blank she heads to the Dallas Museum of Art and the Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth. There is a certain bench she likes to sit on to draw inspiration from, which is positioned in front of Frederic Edwin Church’s iceberg painting.

Musgraves’ all-time favorite piece she’s composed is her depiction of Willie Nelson. Her daughter, Kacey, gave Nelson a replica of her mother’s painting, to which he offered, “Sometimes when I wake up in the mornings, I look just like this.”

Preferring to paint whatever is inspiring to her at the time, much of Musgraves’ art features wildlife, such as longhorns, moose and elk. Other paintings celebrate the simple elegance of a pair of cowboy boots acting as a vase for wildflowers. One work in particular highlights the way the sun gleams off the coats of a herd of wild horses, from a seemingly weightless, floating, proximal prospective. She seems to know just how to utilize wispy, romantic lines, contrasting tone and shadow to cause a longhorn’s tail to swish from the corner of your eye.

Interestingly, much of Musgraves art is featured on pillow prints, which can add a pop of color to a couch or chair, while simultaneously serving as a conversation piece.

“Red is my favorite color,” Musgraves said. “I use it in all of my paintings.”

10 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

Artist Karen Musgraves Photo by Kelly Christine Sutton

Much like the iceberg paintings she admires, there is more to Musgraves’ preferred art modality than what meets the eye.

“I also love sculpture and have been working toward a big show. So far I have about 20 sculptures; I’m working toward a goal of 50 pieces.”

Constructed of bits and pieces of discarded metal items and assembled in ways that speak symbolism to the eye of the beholder, these sculptures are scheduled to make their debut at her upcoming solo art show, “Stars Night Out” April 7 at Lott Interior Design in Tyler, with proceeds to benefit local charities.

Fans of her work can purchase paintings, prints and/or pillows at the Golden Homestead in downtown Golden near Mineola, on-line at www.karenmusgraves.com, and at her booth at Dallas Market.

Paintings by Karen Musgraves. At left, “Amaryllis by Morning;” above “Willie;” and right, “White Longhorn.”

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 11

CityDOWNTOWN of Emory TourismEMORY & LIVE IN Rains County Founders Day Festival Present 7TH, 2016 MAY LIVE CONCERT

county line WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED.

featuring Two-Time Country Music “Entertainer of the Year”

Neal

McCoy and Texas Country Chart Topper “Texas Strong”

Gary Kyle For tickets and more information: www.foundersdayfestival.org 12 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

Let us help you choose the most cost-effective, results-oriented promotion campaigns.

903.963.8306 market@countylinemagazine.com www.countylinemagazine.com

Rains County “The Lure Between the Lakes” Local Events: April 2nd Crappie Anglers of Texas Tournament April 9th Crappie Masters Tournament

234 Quitman St. Emory, TX 903-473-2015

Antiques Upscale Resale

May 7th Founders Day Festival & Concert May 12-15th Legends of Lake Fork Tournament July 4th Poppers in the Park

205 E. Quitman St. Emory, TX 903-274-9720

490 S. Texas St. Emory, TX 903-570-7607

660 CR 3325 On Lake Fork Emory, TX 903-473-4087

September 10th Classics ‘Round the Square

Glazed Create Art! All ages welcome

“Deliciously Different”

Sandwiches, Soups, Salads, Cakes & Desserts 150 Planters St. Emory, TX 903-473-2071

May 5th Savor the Flavor

Thrifty Chicks

A Sweet Affair

Hooten’s Hardware

September 13-17th Rains County Fair

Your everything & more store!

Find us online:

www.rainscountychamberofcommerce.com www.emorytx.com

Hardware, home decor, gourmet food, paint, garden center & much more

1139 E. Lennon Dr. Emory, TX 903-473-8788

Explore Emory

Point Plaza

Girl’s Night Out

Hwy 69, Point, TX ~ 903-474-3635 Red Rooster Cafe Southern Roots Salon Ophelia Moon’s Mercantile Point EDC Welcome Center Southern Sass Salon & Decor Wenzel Insurance Agency

Explore Emory

EAT. SHOP. PAMPER. VISIT POINT Axton’s Bass City 903-473-7224 www.axtonsbasscity.com Bent Tree Motel 903-473-0061 Best Western Inn Emory at Lake Fork 903-473-2022 book.bestwestern.com

Every 1st Saturday 6:00-9:00pm

CHANCE TO WIN $100 SHOPPING SPREE! www.emorytx.com

www.facebook.com/emorygirlsnightout

2530 RSCR 3425 www.DellaTerraFarm.com Open Saturdays 1:00-6:00pm or by appointment

Bryant’s Fishing Camp 903-473-3018

Lake Fork Sportsman’s 903-473-3367

Highland Lake Lodge 903-473-7268 www.highlandlakelodge.com

Lakeview Lodge 903-473-5110

Lake Fork Ranch 800-317-6445 www.lakeforkranchresort.com

Northshore Landing 903-473-4087 www.lakeforkrvandstorage.com

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 13

Singer-Songwriter Builds Creative Communities

By Tom Geddie Connie Mims Pinkerton might be the most well known singer-songwriter in the region who much of the local listening public isn’t familiar with. If that sounds like a contradiction, so be it.

She was surprised that she was named best singer-songwriter in County Line Magazine’s annual poll of “bests” in the Upper East Side of Texas, published in the January-February issue.

Her support is obviously strong.

People at Marvin United Methodist Church in Tyler know her as part of the group that uses acoustic instruments to retool classic hymns into short meditations.

People in the folk music world know her as part of the band Wheatfield with Ezra Idlet and Keith Grimwood of Trout Fishing in America. That band originally formed in 1973 with Mims, Idlet, and Craig Calvert before disbanding in 1979 and coming back to life in 2004 with the addition of Grimwood, touring every year.

The band makes a return trip to the Kerrville Folk Festival in June.

Other singer-songwriters in the region know Mims for her work in helping build creative communities. Since relocating in 2013 from Nashville via Houston with her husband, Jeff Pinkerton, and their big yellow Lab, Boomer, to their We Hope Ranch in New Chapel Hill, she’s launched four creative groups: Nashville Songwriters Association International of East Texas, Psalmwriter, Texas Songcrafters, and The Creator’s Call. She’s also facilitated songwriting workshops for NSAI, The Recording Academy, the Kerrville Folk Festival Foundation, The Ozark Folk Center and Songwriters LAB. The ranch “was part of Jeff’s family’s heritage, and we want to share in that gift that we received,” she said. “We produce hay and a man grazes cattle on the ranch. We want to share the space with people, sharing our special event knowledge, counseling and encouraging other creatives.”

Among the regional songwriters Mims

has worked with are Randy Brown, Jaden Farnsworth, Ramoth Gilead, and Dave Sherman, who have brought her their songs for feedback – not full cowrites, she emphasizes – to make them better.

“I have my little thumbprint on lots of people’s songs, just giving feedback, I like to creatively stump people. It makes them better writers.”

She’s also co-written in Nashville with, among others, Aaron Scherz and Lance Carpenter, both of whom co-wrote #1 country songs last year, Scherz with Maddie & Tae’s “Girl in a Country Song” and Carpenter with Kelsea Ballerini’s “Love Me Like You Mean It.” Mims believes one trait is vital to a good song: truth.

14 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

“It has to come from a true perspective,” she said. “That true perspective can come from a sincere feeling or a thought. If it’s a story type of song, I try to make it a story that people can relate to. I do lots of relationship songs, a lot of songs in the first person where you’re seeking an answer to something or asking a question, trying to figure things out. That makes it more universal.

“A lot of songs I hear are typically ‘you and me’ kinds of relationship songs. I can only write so many of those, and from my age group when I perform these songs, it has to be something that relates to where I’m at in my life. The people who typically come to listen to me are around my age and come from the same tragic ’70s era I came from growing up.”

Mims says she’s proud to be 60.

tudes, getting fired up on the writing.”

Her sound generally is a mix of folk and hard-to-define Americana, “leaning toward Texas. There’s a sound, a spirit of Texas in it.”

Mims first discovered she could write a song “from the groove up” in the ’70s.

In performance, Mims does mostly her own songs and, when they fit into her shows, some of the songs she’s co-written or others that she likes.

“I like to do all my songs if possible, but depending on where I am — what type of audience — I’ll pull something out like a song from another writer friend of mine or something fairly well known that sounds like I wrote it, because it blends. The audience wants to hear something familiar every now and then.”

For example, she does the Brooks & Dunn’s hit “Every River” the way Kim Richey wrote it instead of the way that duo recorded it.

In January, at The Foundry tribute to the Beatles in Tyler, did the Beatles’ “I’ll Be Back Again” more like the way Shawn Colvin recorded her own version, rather than the way the Beatles did it.

“I evoke the mood of the women, which presents a different perspective. Are we more intuitive? We might come from a different level of pain if the song has to do with pain, dig a little deeper, just inflect a certain tone or a different sensitivity if the lyrics need it.”

Mims said listeners’ attention spans are short now.

“The days of the six- or seven- or eightminute songs are over for now,” she said. “Maybe they’ll come back, but now you’ve got to catch people in the first couple of lines, something they can sing along with or recognize when they hear it on the radio and it gives them a certain feeling.”

Mims plans another of her songwriter’s retreats sometime this spring, although she hadn’t set a date by deadline. Check conniemims.com for updates.

“We max out at 20 writers at the ranch, and take them from the art and architecture of how to build a song: the whole design and melody and lyrical construction, left brain in the morning, then right brain in the afternoon,” she said. “People leave with different atti-

“I went to keyboard and wrote almost exclusively on keyboard in the ’80s, very pop driven. In the ’90s, I was honing my skills more as stage performer and vocalist. I was a mom and that’s where I threw my creativity mostly.

“When I got back to songwriting in the early part of this millennium I began listening to well crafted songs by Texas troubadours like Guy Clark, Tony Lane, and John Defoore. I love that style of writing. And I soaked up the Nashville writing like Jim Collins and Alan Shamblin and Tom Douglas.”

VISIT

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

Come Stay & Play.

We Aim to Please!

Mims grew up in Laredo, influenced by the Beatles, James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, Buffalo Springfield, and more including “the whole Texas cowboy scene with B.W. Stevenson, Michael Martin Murphy, and Gary P. Nunn.”

She performed “everywhere” from Armadillo World Headquarters in Austin to The Troubadour in Los Angeles.

Wheatfield performed in the first season of the PBS TV series “Austin City Limits” and had regional and national success as a touring and recording band as well as scoring and performing two original ballet scores, “Caliban” and “Rasputin” for the Houston, Dallas and Chicago ballet companies.

During the ’80s, Mims developed a solo career as a performing songwriter and studio vocalist, appearing in numerous radio ads and in the classic Blue Bell Ice Cream TV commercial “Texas Musicians.”

903.887.1087 www.gunbarrelcity.net www.gunbarrelcityfestivals.net

Make Jefferson Your Spring Break Destination!

She served as education chair for the board of governors of the Texas Chapter of The Recording Academy, producing the annual Grammy Career Day for high school students.

Her most recent CDs are Wheatfield’s “Big Texas Sky” and her own “Gettin’ There,” featuring Texas standouts Gene Elders on fiddle, Lloyd Maines on dobro and pedal steel, and Chris Gage on keyboards.

That’s good company. As are the people in the rest of Mims’ creative communities, whether performing or sharing or otherwise giving back some of the gift.

EVENTS TOURS ATTRACTIONS Take it easy!

903.665.3733

f

VisitJeffersonTexas.com

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 15

DERBY DAY IN WINNSBORO

Run for the Roses SATURDAY MAY 7

9-11 AM Children’s Derby & Activities

10 AM-1PM Dance and Band Performances

5:00 PM Cocktail Hour

MARKET STREET

5:34 PM Kentucky Derby televised live

DOWNTOWN WINNSBORO

6:00 PM Dinner is served

7:00 PM Prizes awarded

16 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

7:15–9:00 PM Live Music

903-342-3654 • winnsboroedc.com

WINNSBORO CULTURAL ARTS DISTRICT

MONK’S OVEN

CLARA IDA FRANCES

204 Market St. - (903) 347-1282

219 N. Main St. - (903) 342-6137

Pine Curtain

Claude Bourbon

March 12

April 2 GRAPE BISTRO & WINE BAR

DITTO GALLERIES

217 Market St. (903) 347-6510

245 Private Road 8571 - (903) 285-2174

Hannah Kirby

Tom Paxton

April l6

April 23

ALL SHOWS START AT 7:30 P.M. TICKETS AVAILABLE AT: LIEFIE LI VINE

302 N. Main St. - (903) 347-1111

www.winnsborocenterforthearts.com; Winnsboro Emporium, 212 Market St., 903-342-6140; and Winnsboro Center for the Arts

THEE HUBBELL HOUSE

307 W. Elm St. - (800) 227-0639

Classes at Winnsboro Center for the Arts Lindy Hearne - Guitar and Keyboard - Mon. & Tue. Efton Edwards - Painting, Acrylic & Oil - Mon. & Thu. Robin Sanchez - Yoga - Wed. evenings Kathy Rachal - Advanced Painting - Fri. Nancy Beauchamp - Pastel Art - Tue.

ART & ESPRESSO

WINNSBORO EMPORIUM

111 E. Broadway - (903) 342-3343

212 Market St. - (903) 342-6140

BREWBAKER’S

210 N. Main St. - (903) 342-6119

100 East Cedar Street • 903-588-0465

COPPERLEAF DAY SPA

209 N. Main St. - (903) 342-7772

Logos represent donors or supporters and are utilized by permission only.

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 17

200 MARKET STREET • 903-342-0686 • WINNSBOROCENTERFORTHE ARTS.COM

THIS TIME OF YEAR MARCH 23 • NATIONAL PUPPY DAY

MARCH 8

While it’s an unofficial holiday, National Puppy Day is a good time to consider adopting a pet, learning to care for ones already adopted, or volunteering or donating to help abused dogs.

MARCH • APRIL

East Texas offers plenty of worthy nonprofit organizations that can help: • Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) of East Texas (Tyler), 903-592-7705, www.spcaeasttx.com • Humane Society’s Pets Fur People (Tyler), 903-597-2471, www.petsfurpeople.org • Partnership for Pets of East Texas (Longview), 903- 926-2695, www. pfpeasttexas.org • Humane Society of Northeast Texas (Longview), 903-297-2170, www.hsntx. org • Wild Rose Rescue Ranch (Whitehouse), 903-253-6147, www.wildroserescueranch.com • Rebel Ranch (Jefferson), 903-6657751, www.rebelranchrescue.org • Animal Care and Adoption Center (Texarkana), 870-773-6388, www.ani-

MRS. LEE’S DAFFODILS daffodilgarden.com/903.845.5780 malcareadoptioncenter.com • BARC – The Human Society (Palestine), 903-729-8074, www.barctx.org These are just a sampling of the many organizations dedicated to helping pets find forever homes in Northeast Texas.

There are hundreds of humane societies and other organizations and foster families in the region making it easy for those ready to adopt to find a new pet close to home. Check with your local veterinarians or city offices for more information.

AZALEA TRAILS visittyler.com/903.592.1661 visitnacogdoches.org/888.653.3788

APRIL 16-17 • APRIL IN EDOM

DOGWOOD TRAILS texasdogwoodtrails.com 903.723.3014 MARCH 13

Daylight savings time begins at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 13. Set clocks ahead one hour.

Edom’s old-fashioned street fair from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 16-17 is one of the few events in the area billed for pets as well as the rest of the family. In its 12th year, April in Edom fills the downtown streets with more than 75 vendors with hand-made crafts, an interactive kids area, festival food, pet-parades and contests, 5K run, cruise night, and live music. For more information call 844.633.6689 and go to visitedom.com.

18 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

MARCH 20. SPRING BEGINS

MARCH. WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

PAPER

Indulge

CELEBRATE WOMEN

“My coach said I run like a girl and I said if he ran a little faster he could too.”

YOU DESERVE IT

— Mia Hamm

MARCH 8, 1989 • STUART HAMBLEN America lost one of its first singing cowboys in 1989 with the death of Stuart Hamblen. Originally from Kellyville near Jefferson in Marion County, Hamblin was a prolific songwriter that made it big in country and gospel music.

His major hits included “Big Rock Candy Mountains #2.” He also landed secondary roles in several B-Western movies.

After a spiritual awakening he left behind his wilder side and produced his most famous tunes, which climbed to top the gospel charts. “This Ole House” was recorded by top artists of the day like Rosemary Clooney and Elvis Presley.

secret what God can do.” Hamblen’s “It Is No Secret (What God Can Do)” became a gospel classic.

The second hit grew out of a conversation with movie star John Wayne about Hamblen’s transformation.

“Well, Duke,” he told Wayne, “I guess it’s not

With more than 225 songs to his credit, Hamblen received inductions in several halls of fame including the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame in 2001.

SUBSCRIBE!

APRIL 30, 1925 • JOHNNY HORTON Although born in Los Angeles on April 30, 1925, Johnny Horton spent much of his youth in Cherokee and Rusk counties of Texas. First noticed as a songwriter, he soon began singing and recording his own songs to much critical recognition. With hits “Honky Tonk Man” and “I’m a One Woman Man,” he toured with stars like Roy Orbison, Johnny Cash, and Marty Robbins.

Horton’s patriotic and historical tunes were just as popular because of their crossover appeal. Chart-topping recordings included “North to Alaska” and “The Battle of New Orleans.” The latter hit earned him a Grammy Award for “Best Country and Western Recording” in 1960, shortly before his death in an auto accident.

Still just $15 per year!

SUBMIT ORDER ON WEBSITE OR MAIL TO P.O. BOX 608 BEN WHEELER, TX 75754

county line Upper East Side of Texas Regional Magazine

fl&g 903.963.8306 countylinemagazine.com

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 19



CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

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

Irish Legacy is Alive and Well in East Texas

By Steve Freeman Rumor has it that true Irish don’t care much for leprechauns or green beer but other aspects of the Irish lifestyle help define who they are and give insight to those who want to be Irish for a day on St. Patrick’s Day. Being Irish means loving life and lively music, food, and socializing with friends for starters. The Irish are defined as being a relaxed, honest, hard-working people who like to gather for camaraderie and a few pints of beer with others.

“It’s good to be Irish,” said Jimmy Harris of Quinlan. While admitting his 15-percent Irish connection, he has reconnected with his Irish roots each year for 12 years by volunteering with the North Texas Irish Festival, held at Fair Park, Dallas. The Celtic music provided by 40 bands and the music are reason enough.

Harris said the Irish serve up tasty plates of corned beef and cabbage, potatoes, stew, meatballs and haggis.

Beyond the Pale specializes in performing Irish jigs and storytelling lyrics ommon in Irish music. Its members are (left to right) John Delaney, Betsy Cummings, Gordon McLeod, and Christy McLeod. The band appears in Rusk on March 12, Sulphur Springs on May 14, and Winnsboro on November 19.

Stage November 19, as well as three shows at the North Texas Irish Festival.

Music especially became dear to the Irish who wished to recapture their culture once coming to America, McLeod said.

Maybe haggis isn’t desired by would-be Irish this time of year, but the music is.

“Unfortunately, Americans have come to think of all Irish songs as drinking songs, when in reality they are beautiful, melodic songs about love, yearning, tragedy, patriotism and humorous stories.”

“We do reels, jigs, and slides — we do stuff you can dance to,” said Christy McLeod.

Her Irish band called Beyond the Pale originated in Tyler and still performs throughout the region. The group that together play 14 instruments and sing appear at Rusk’s Cherokee Civic Theatre March 12 and at Winnsboro’s Bowery

Immigrants from Ireland flooded the ports of entry in the mid-1800s. Economic, political, and religious unrest brought them here and today those claiming Irish descent make up the third most numerous European ancestry (34.7 million) in the U.S. after English and German.

The former Shelby County Courthouse, completed in 1885 to resemble an Irish castle, houses a Veterans Affairs office and event center today. Courtesy photo.

20 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

In 1991, Congress named March as Irish-American Heritage month, which includes St. Patrick’s Day, celebrated on March 17 each year around the world by Irish and non-Irish alike.

While Irish-Americans did not flock to the Upper East Side of Texas in great numbers the state’s history does include their stories of contributing to its settlement. Members of the Thomas Breen family of Mineola served as postmasters, city commissioners, and business leaders. Crockett native W.V. McConnell, described as witty Irish storyteller, opened a mercantile store there that operated 50 years after his death.

Two places of interest include Nacogdoches County’s 40,000-acre San Patricio Rancho (named after Saint Patrick), a 1797 venture by two Irishmen to trade with the Native Americans and provide supplies to soldiers. The other is the old Shelby County Courthouse in Center built to resemble an Irish Romanesquestyle castle by J.J.E. Gibson. Born in Dublin, he trained as an architect, migrated to America in the late 1800s, and landed in Shelby where he bid for the courthouse project.

Four Irishmen signed the Texas Declaration of Independence and 100 fought in the Battle of San Jacinto. The 1850 census counted 1,400 Irish in Texas and some 130 years later, more than a half million called Texas home.

EVENTS March 4-5, 18-19, April 1-3, 15-16

Jefferson Flea Market. Jefferson 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Free.

213 W. Broadway Street.

903.431.0043. jeffersonfleamarket.net

May 13-14

Balloon Fest. Canton. $10 per car. First Monday Grounds, 800 Flea Market Rd. 903.567.1849 visitcantontx.com

ARTS

First Monday Trade Days. Canton.

903.567.6556. firstmondaycanton.com

March 5

March 12

Rose City 35th Chili Cookoff . Tyler. 11 a.m.5:15 p.m. $3 donation. Gander Mountain, 151 Market square Blvd. 903.372.2818

March 19, April 23

Cleveland Amory Black Beauty Ranch Visitation Program. Murchison, 2-4 p.m. $54$162. Cleveland Amory Black Beauty Ranch, 12526 County Road 3806. 903.469.3811. visit. fundforanimals.org

March 26-27

4 Star Spring Film Festival. Kilgore.

903.984.5022. foothillsentertainment.com

March 31

Women with a Cause Luncheon. Tyler. 11:45 a.m. $25. Tyler Rose Garden Center, 420 Rose Park Dr. 903.258.6454.

April 2-May 1 (Weekends)

Avalon Faire. Kilgore. FM 1252. 903.984.5022. avalonfaire.com.

April 22-23

Through March 20

Embracing Diverse Voices: 90 Years of African-American Art. Tyler. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tyler Museum of Art, 1300 S. Mahon Ave. 903.595.1001. tylermuseum.org.

March 3-6, March 31-April 3

lery Main Street, 110 W. Erwin. 903.593.6905.

DowntownTylerArts.com.

Natural to Abstraction. Tyler. 5:30-8 p.m. Gal-

Writing for the New Millenium. Mt. Pleasant. netwo.org

April 30

Landmarks. Tyler. 5:30-8 p.m. Free. Gallery Main Street, 110 W. Erwin. 903.593.6905.

DowntownTylerArts.com

Marshall Regional Arts Council Presents

IRISH FEST AND

TASTE OF EAST TEXAS

April 2-3

Mineola Amtrak Wine Fest. Mineola.

903.569.6983. mineolamainstreet.com

April 7

East Texas Area Business Showcase. Mineola. 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Mineola Civic Center, 1150 N. Newsom. 903.780.7969.

April 6

Tuesday

March 15, 2016 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Marshall Convention Center 2501 East End Blvd. South

FACE PAINTING!

IRISH MUSIC by “Vintage Four”

Rangerette Revels. Kilgore. Dodson Auditorium, 817 Nolen St. 903.984.5022. rangerette.com

April 15-16

Red River Art, Wine & Music Fest. Bonham.

Creative Arts Center, 200 W. 5th St. 903.6402196. creativeartscenter.us

April 16

Dalton Days. Longview. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Free.

Gregg County Historical Museum, 214 N. Fredonia Street. 903.753.5840. gregghistorical.org/ dalton-days-2/ Chautauqua Festival. Longview. 10:30 a.m.3 p.m. Free. Longview Public Library, 222 W. Cotton St. 903.237.1353. library.longviewtexas. gov

April 23

ASPCA Help Horse Day/Wings Over Pegasus. Murchison. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $5 per car. The Pegasus Project Horse Rescue, 7111 FM 2339.

903.469.3578. pegasusrescue.org

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS Dinner Belle. Cafe Italia. Jose Tequila’s. Davis Grill.

Super One Foods. Cajun Tex. Selena’s.OS2.

Catfish Express Catering. Made Rite. Ya’ll’s Place GSMC Verda Cafe. Don Juan’s. Pizza Hut. Sabine’s. Mama Tina’s. Popeyes Chicken.

Tickets: $15. Available at The Marshall Regional Arts Council Office in the Marshall Convention Center; The Greater Marshall Texas Chamber, Gingko Leaf Gallery, Weisman Center, and Online: Marshallartscouncil.org.

903.935.4484 • marshallartscouncil.org MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 21

The ‘Writing on the Walls’ Depicts Communities’ Vibe

By Steve Freeman Splashing some paint — colors, words, and pictures — on exterior walls of buildings sends a message, serves a purpose.

These murals and so-called “ghost signs” stand as silent reminders of the life cycles of towns and cities throughout East Texas. Visitors crook their necks and notice them immediately and townsfolk, so used to seeing them, notice if they disappear.

Some murals and advertisements represent an age gone by — days when moon pies were every kid’s delight and horses were the only mode of travel. Some express modern-day messages — “Welcome to our friendly town” or “You’ll love it here.” Some offer the element of mystery. Several decades old and weathered just beyond recognition, they fade back into the brick and mortar that predated the paint itself.

“Sometimes these old paintings, even if they’re faded after decades, can be some of the most memorable landmarks in small towns,” said Derek Price, a leader in the Hunt County Public Art initia-

tive. “They’re part of what we remember about growing up in a place, and I think they’re worth preserving even in their faded, ghostly state. They have a charm that can’t be recreated.”

Two of Mount Pleasant’s murals suggest a time when both Dr Pepper and Bull Durham chewing tobacco were huge sellers. Ben Wheeler is the site promoting Royal Crown Cola and moon pies.

Price and his team are on a mission to bring outside art to Greenville and so he supports new murals as well as preservation of the old.

Only a 5-cent sign remains outside a building in Clarksville. “I want to say it was a Coca-Cola advertisement,” said Laura Dial, Red River County Chamber of Commerce.

“Contemporary murals are even more exciting because they say something about life right now. They add energy and vitality to a city.”

San Augustine doesn’t have murals, but some there have taken up the cause.

Tracy Cox, manager of the Main Street program, said the town offers so much history that could be depicted: home of the first state governor, Sam Houston’s home, first university, and nationally recognized 300-year-old Mission Dolores.

“We would like to do murals because we are proud of our heritage,” Cox said.

Whether newly unveiled or confined to history, the region’s murals do have many stories to tell.

Other mural messages make bold statements. Side walls of storefronts in Canton, Greenville, and Jefferson celebrate the special characteristics of those towns.

A large free-standing mural in Lufkin depicts the early days of logging in East Texas. It measures more than 21 yards long and 10 feet high at the tallest point.

Price encourages the continuation of installing murals and artwork. “It’s a ton of work, but it’s also one of the most rewarding and fun things a town can do,” he said.

Additional photos are available at countylinemagazine.com.

Photo by Byron Jones 22 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

Photo by Stephanie Hatfield

TOP LEFT: The award-winning RC Cola and Moon Pie mural in Ben Wheeler; BOTTOM LEFT & RIGHT: Artwork in Lufkin depicts the early days of East Texas logging; ABOVE TOP CLOCKWISE: Murals like this one in Mount Pleasant are often favorite photo-taking backdrops; Pittsburg has a new coat of paint on an old Dr Pepper advertisement; Canton depicts some of their heritage in the downtown area; and the world-famous Jefferson General Store proudly displays their name and the old fashioned soda fountain inside.

Photo by Byron Jones MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 23

History. Dining. Shopping. Lodging. Arts. Entertainment. Lakes.

Have Some Fun in Mount Vernon March 26. Easter in the Park and Egg Hunt 10 a.m. - Noon. Little Creek Park

April 16. Boots, Brew and Barbeque

Live music, beer garden, barbeque cook-off https://www.facebook.com/BootsBrewandBarbeque/?fref=ts

April 16. Tour de Cypress

Ride on shaded country roads. Free hamburger, free beer.

Enjoy the free Heroes Barbecue Friday night. www.tourdecypress.com

April 22-23. Bankhead Highway Centennial Celebration Murder on the Bankhead Mystery Dinner Time Travel Parade. Brunch on the Bankhead www.mountvernonmainstreet.com/bankhead-highway

Perfect Any Time Getaway 903.537.4070 • mountvernonmainstreet.com 65TH ANNUAL

Ennis

Bluebonnet TRAILS FESTIVAL

Sponsored by Ennis Garden Club

April 15-17, 2016

(Mapped trails open in April)

Arts/Crafts/Food/Live Music Free Trail Maps Children’s Fun Area Car Show (Sat. only) 50th Anniversary

National Polka Festival

May 27-29, 2016 Czech Family Fun for Everyone!

19 live polka bands and much more!

Just 25 minutes south of Downtown Dallas on IH-45 Ennis Farmers Market (Saturdays, April-Oct.)

972-878-4748 www.visitennis.org

f&t

24 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

17th Annual Buffalo Girls Hotel “CASI” Sanctioned Chili Cook Off Benefitting ON THE MOUNTAIN CANTON, TEXAS

Old Mill Marketplace Complex 542 East Dallas Street

For Cook Off Information or Where to Donate Items for Auctions

Call Susan Matassa (903) 567-0844 www.buffalogirlshotel.com

For Pet Adoptions Contact

C.L.A.W.

(903) 880-8036 www.clawanimals.com clawanimals@yahoo.com

LIFE LINES

“My uncle was a blacksmith. My mother put me on a bus and let me go to Pittsburg. The bus station was on Back Street where they sell the hot links. During the war, my uncle’s children moved to California to work for the war effort. When my aunt would go see them she would carry frozen Pittsburg hot links. She’d carry the raw ones that were frozen and she’d cook some and freeze them and carry them. They would catch perch in the lake by Pittsburg.

She fileted them and froze them and would carry them on as her carry on and get them to California so they could have fried fish and Pittsburg hot links like they were used to having in Texas.” Mable Hill, Tyler.

by LouAnn Campbell

“I’ve heard stories about the Beckham hotel being haunted. There’s a story about a man who killed himself by a phone booth and there’s a big blood mark there. People have seen sightings of a lady coming down the stairs at night, like floating down the stairs. I’ve heard people say that she started falling down the stairs.”

Rachel Meacham, Mineola.

“I’ve lived in Mineola since I was in junior high. I love history. I want to preserve it for our next generation. I started a Facebook Group called Traces of Mineola History for people to share pictures and stories. I’m having fun.” Jane Lankford, Mineola

“My husband was in the movie To Hell and Back starring Audie Murphy. My son went to the BX in Germany when we were stationed there and bought the VHS when it came out. We were sitting there watching it and my husband, Curt said, ‘That’s me, that’s me.’ He was an English soldier in that movie as an extra. It was filmed at Yakima, Washington and Curt was stationed at Fort Lewis. Shirley Lindsay, Tyler

“My favorite place to visit in East Texas is Mrs. Lee’s Garden in Gladewater. I could sit on the deck out there and look at the daffodils all day long. You can hear this little stream, there’s no traffic, and there’s thousands of daffodils. It’s absolutely beautiful and very peaceful.” Rita Whitley, Winona.

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 25

THE ARTS Red River Shares Art, Wine & Music

The third annual Red River Art, Wine & Music Fest—hosted by The Creative Arts Center, Bonham—is Saturday, April 16, with an opening reception on Friday evening, April 15.

This year, the exhibit on display during the Art Fest is a judged photography contest. At 5 p.m. Friday, winners are revealed at a reception from 5 to 8 p.m.

The top 12 winners are also included on a 2017 calendar, which goes on sale later this year. Other contests and classes are also available to guests during the festival.

A silent auction highlights the opening reception. Artists and businesses around the community donate items for the auction each year, said Lisa Avila, executive director of The Creative Arts Center, 200 W. 5th Street.

Other experiences at the festival are children’s activities, music, performers, classes, and plenty of art to enjoy.

Pieces like this “Austin Remembered” by Marilyn Todd Daniels of Whitewright are part of the Red River Art, Wine & Music Fest in Bonham.

For more information, visit www.creativeartscenter.us or the Red River Art, Wine & Music Fest Facebook page.

Musgraves Gives Area Schools Funds for Fine Arts In a show of her gratitude for the opportunities provided growing up in East Texas, country music artist Kacey Musgraves made good on her promise to help other students with similar musical aspirations.

As promised, Musgraves donated the proceeds of her September concert in Mineola, called “Hometown Hang,” to six Wood County schools. A total of $65,700 went to the school music programs in Mineola, Winnsboro, Quitman, Alba/ Golden, Hawkins, and Yantis. Funds were disbursed based on school enrollments and ranged from $3,849 to the 364-student Yantis district to $16,951 going to the Mineola district.

“We are very proud of Kacey Musgraves, one of Mineola ISD’s graduates who has an accomplished career and a character of service and giving back,” said Kim Tunnell, superintendent. “It is an honor to receive these funds to help sustain and advance our fine arts programs so that other students like Kacey can realize their

dreams and have a quality experience with the arts and we are grateful for her generosity.”

Each gift was accompanied by a letter from Musgraves that was read to the school leaders who received the gift. In it, she expressed her appreciation for music and for education and her desire to help other students realize their musical dreams.

“I am so proud of where I come from and I am very happy to be able to present

26 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

these gifts to the schools of my county,” her letter stated. Noting the importance of art and music curriculum in today’s schools, she added, “Texas is full of brilliant, budding artists of every kind and I want these kids to know that it is possible to reach far beyond our small towns and go for what may feel impractical or impossible.”

Musgraves, originally from Golden, is currently on an international tour to promote her new CD titled Pageant Material.

Chihuly Returns for TMA’s 45th Anniversary with Works from Texas Collections The Tyler Museum of Art ushers in its 45th anniversary of serving the East Texas community by offering a new take on one of the most celebrated artists ever to exhibit at the venue.

Chihuly: Works from Texas Collections, an exhibition spotlighting the broad scope of glass master Dale Chihuly’s artistic vision and impact over a 40-year career, is now showing through May 15.

Rather than focusing on a single series, Works from Texas Collections runs the spectrum from the early 1980s to the present decade, highlighting the wide range of Chihuly works held in public institutions throughout the state (including two pieces owned by the TMA) as well as local private collections.

“The previous Chihuly exhibition we hosted proved to be one of the most popular in the museum’s history, and we expect this one to have an even broader appeal because of the strong connection to collectors of his work – many of them right here in Tyler,” Executive Director Chris Leahy said. “That strong community connection is especially significant as we celebrate the 45th anniversary of our opening in 1971, as this museum was built as and remains a service to our community.”

Chihuly: Works from Texas Collections draws from multiple private collections throughout Texas, in addition to public venues including Art Museum of Southeast Texas in Beaumont, Art Museum of South Texas in Corpus Christi, Dallas Museum of Art, Museum of Fine Arts Houston, The Contemporary Austin, and the UT Tyler Cowan Center.

To complement the glass works spanning several of the major series by the internationally acclaimed artist, the exhibition also features several paintings and prints personally rendered

by Chihuly, who no longer blows his own glass forms but supervises the process of realizing his designs. (Chihuly lost sight in one eye following an automobile accident in 1976.)

General exhibition admission is $5 for adults and $3 for senior citizens. TMA members, students, children 12 and under, TJC faculty and staff, and City of Tyler employees are admitted free. Regular TMA hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday; the Museum is closed Mondays and most major holidays. The Museum is supported by its members, Tyler Junior College and the City of Tyler. For more information, call 903.595.1001 or visit www.tylermuseum.org.

BONFIRE FIORI 1 Dale Chihuly (b. 1941). Bonfire Fiori, 2008.

Blown glass. Courtesy of The University of Texas at Tyler R. Don Cowan Fine & Performing Arts Center, funded by Cowan Center President’s Club and UT Tyler Alumni Foundation: Michael Collins, Janet Fair, Dawn Franks, Roy Martinez, Chief Gary Swindle and Patrick D. Willis. © 2015 Chihuly Studio.

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 27

STAGE ArtsView Children’s Theatre Presents Charlotte’s Web ArtsView Children’s Theatre, Longview, offers the popular children’s production of Charlotte’s Web with show times March 17 through 20.

The script by Joseph Robinette is based on the book by E.B. White. The Children’s Literature Association named White’s book “the best American children’s book of the past 200 years.”

All the enchanting characters are here: Wilbur, the irresistible young pig who desperately wants to avoid the butcher; Fern, a girl who understands what animals say to each other; Templeton, the gluttonous rat who can occasionally be talked into a good deed; the Zuckerman family; the Arables; and, of course, the extraordinary spider, Charlotte, who proves to be “a true friend and a good writer.”

Determined to save Wilbur, Charlotte begins her campaign with the “miracle” of her web in which she writes, “Some pig.” It’s the beginning of a victorious campaign that ultimately ends with the now-safe Wilbur doing what is most important to Charlotte.

The all-youth show, directed by ArtsView Artistic Director and General Manager Jason Richards, features performers 10 to 18 years of age from Longview

and the surrounding areas including Kilgore, White Oak, Gilmer, Marshall, and Hallsville. Wilbur is portrayed by Isaac Berryhill, with Sarah Rectenwald as Charlotte, and Macy Cobb as Fern.

Charlotte’s Web opens Thursday, March 17, at 7 p.m., with additional evening shows March 18 and 19. Matinees are

scheduled for March 19 and 20 at 2 p.m. ArtsView Children’s Theatre is at 313 W. Tyler Street, downtown Longview.

Tickets are $12 online; $15 by phone, in the office, or at the door. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www.artsviewchildrenstheatre.com.

Texas Shakespeare Festival Marks 30 Years with the Bard The Texas Shakespeare Festival has planned this years season with a schedule packed with 27 performances of three treats from the Bard: The Merchant of Venice, Blithe Spirit, and Henry V. Here is the summer 2016 schedule, including both evening and matinee performances: The Merchant of Venice: June 30, and July 7, 9, 15, 17, 22, 24, 28, and 30 Blithe Spirit: July 1, 8, 10, 15, 17, 21, 23, 28, and 30.

Henry V: July 2, 8, 10, 14, 16, 21, 23, 29, and 31.

More information is available at www.texasshakespeare.com.

28 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

Ballet West dancers join the Longview Ballet team for a performance of Beauty and the Beast April 8-10. Photo by Luke Isley.

Beauty and the Beast Arrives in Longview in April Longview Ballet Theatre and the renowned Ballet West II bring the magical and timeless classic Beauty and the Beast to the Belcher Performance Center in Longview on April 8-10. Join Beauty and her tragic Beast as they tell the age old story of promise, friendship and love.

The original choreography by Ballet West Principal Ballet Mistress, Pamela Robinson and Associate Artistic Director for Ballet West II, Peggy Dolkas, brings to the stage a cast of unforgettable characters and a forest full of magical trees, mischievous sprites and dancing roses and rosebuds. Newly designed and created costumes and sets by Ballet West transport the audience to a land of castles, fairies and a brooding and lonely Beast.

Beauty and the Beast is the third addition to Ballet West’s Family Series and travels to Longview one week after its world-premiere in Salt Lake City.

“We are so excited to collaborate with Ballet West on this incredible production,” says Pat George Mitchell, Artistic Director for Longview Ballet Theatre.

“What a wonderful opportunity for our company to dance with the world class Ballet West II, and for our audiences to see such a dazzling performance without having to travel out of state.”

Mitchell who has several students that have gone on to dance with top professional companies including New York City Ballet, Ballet West, Miami City Ballet and the Martha Graham Dance Company.

Longview Ballet Theatre began a long tradition of collaborating with professional guests artists in 2002, and 2016 will mark the first time LBT has partnered with an entire professional company.

STAGE

Established in 1963, and under the direction of Artistic Director Adam Sklute since 2007, Ballet West is comprised of two companies and 50 dancers and has toured internationally and in more than 20 states.

Longview Ballet Theatre was founded in 1972 by Artistic Director Pat George

For tickets and more information go to belchercenter.com or call 903.233.3080.

March 10

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Tyler. Cowan Center, 3900 University Blvd. cowancenter.org.

March 17-20

Charlotte’s Web. Longview. 7 p.m. $12-$15.

ArtsView Children’s Theatre, 313 W. Tyler St., 903.236.7535. artsviewchildrenstheatre.com.

April 8-10

Beauty and the Beast. Longview. 2-4 p.m. $15 -$45. Belcher Performance Center, 2100 Mobberly Avenue. 903.238.7625. belchercenter.com.

Duncan Turns 70, Returns to Neverland East Texas native Sandy Duncan returned to Broadway recently and to the Peter Pan musical “Finding Neverland.” She played the boy who won’t grow up on Broadway from 1978-1981, earning her one of her three Tony Award nominations. Duncan, who turned 70 this year on February 20, stars in the play now as Madame du Maurier, the grandmother of Peter Llewelyn Davies, the boy whose grief, and imagination, helps inspire J.M. Barrie to write the children’s classic, “Peter Pan.” “Neverland” is playing in the same theater, the Lunt-Fontanne, where Duncan performed as Peter Pan. She is joined by Tony Yazbeck as Barrie and Kelsey Grammer as both the American theatrical producer Charles Frohman and a fearsome Captain Hook. Duncan appears in the performance through March 27.

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 29

FILM East Texas Author’s Mystery Thriller Leads to TV Mini-Series A novel series by storyteller Joe Lansdale of Nacogdoches comes to the SundanceTV line-up with the premiere of Hap and Leonard at 9 p.m.

March 2.

Set in the late 1980s, the six-hour series offers a darkly comic swamp noir

story of two best friends, one femme fatale, a crew of washed-up revolutionaries, a pair of murderous psychokillers, some lost loot, and the police.

The show follows Hap Collins (James Purefoy), an East Texas white boy with a weakness for southern women, and

Leonard Pine (Michael Kenneth Williams), a gay black Vietnam veteran with a hot temper. Together, they struggle through misadventures in a bid to stay on the right side of the law in 1980s East Texas.

When Hap’s seductive ex-wife Trudy (Christina Hendricks) resurfaces with a deal they can’t refuse, a simple get-rich-quick scheme snowballs into bloody mayhem. Chock full of eccentric characters, Hap and Leonard provides a country twist on the classic mystery thriller.

Purefoy appeared in The Following and Episodes. Williams’ credits include The Wire, Inherent Vice, 12 Years a Slave, and Boardwalk Empire. Hendricks’ portrayal of Joan Harris on Mad Men earned her five Emmy nominations for Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series.

The characters originated in Lansdale’s Hap Collins and Leonard Pine mysteries. Lansdale serves as co-executive producer for the TV mystery.

Media Underwriter

Tyler Junior College is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution. Complete information is available at www.tjc.edu.

April 1-30, 2016 • TJC.edu/artsfestival

30 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

James Purefoy (“Hap”) and Michael Kenneth Williams (“Leonard”) star in a new SundanceTV mini-series as two East Texas men dealing with bad luck, a difficult ex-wife, and the law.

FOOD & FUN!

Live Music Wed- Sun. Open 6:30 a.m. to Close 10 p.m. Wed. 11 p.m. Thur/Fri., Midnight Sat., 9 p.m. Sun.

Kids Eat Free Tues.

Unplug & Wine Down Wed. Live Music Fri. & Sat. Open 7 Days a Week

903.833.5100

MooresStore.com

BARSTOOL RACES! MARCH 19 Races 6 p.m.

Live Music all day

TheForgeBenWheeler.com 903.833.5970

Far Out Art Fest April 23-24 Saturday: 10:00 - 6:00 Sunday: 10:00 - 4:00 Harmony Garden Park Downtown Ben Wheeler

Groovy outdoor art and music fest under beautiful trees.

Showcases extraordinary artists and craftsmen from all over the state.

FAR OUT ART FEST 2016 Ben Wheeler, Texas

“Best Town of East Texas 2014” — County Line Magazine 2 Award-Winning Restaurants Featured on “The Texas Bucket List” and “Expedition Texas”

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 31

LITERARY: NOTEWORTHY READS As a full-time musician herself, Pochop knows the ins and outs of making it work and her eBook just recently .

Other items include poultices for insect and spider bites, and rashes, salves and balms for burns and skin irritations.

Her sound advice kicks off with one very important piece of the puzzle that musicians and other artists often turn away from in these days of social media — their website. Thankfully, Pochop hits the nail on the head by telling those that want to find success that they MUST have and up-to-date (media) user friendly site. She goes on to cover social media strategies, crowd-funding, fan base growth, touring tips, booking, and more.

Gibson became interested in herbs in the 1970’s, making her first herbal tea, as she studied and learned about the medical benefits of herbs. She began making and using herbal remedies in the 1980’s and now shares her favorite recipes and remedies in this book.

Money and Heart Social Media and Business Smarts for the Independent Musician

By Jana Pochop Amazon.com and Audible.com eBook and Audiobook

2016

April 26

Unspinning the Spin The Women’s Media Center Guide to Fair and Accurate Language

By Rosalie Maggio ISBN 978-0-615-91843-3 WWC Press Amazon.com Herb Remedy Recipes for Beginners Using and Making Herbal Remedies

By Carolyn Gibson ISBN -13: 978-1511481816 Amazon.com

Carolyn Gibson of Edom published this beginner’s guide to making and using herbal oils , salves, and tinctures for everyday ailments with step-by-step photos. Make herbal remedies like alcohol tinctures, non alcohol glycerin tinctures, syrups, and honey and vinegar remedies called oxymels. Make throat soothers to soothe or an herbal spray to numb a painful sore throat as effective as a chlorhexidine/lidocaine throat spray.

32 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

The Women’s Media Center recently produced this massive 543-page book

by Rosalie Maggio to help those in the media, bloggers, teachers, students and any reader who loves the English language. It’s focus is to increasae accuracy and diversity in communications by suggesting alternatives to words like “maternity leave” for instance that excludes fathers, adoptive parents, and the reality of many families, when words like “parental leave” or “family leave” are easy replacements. The book strives to bring more awareness of the social inequities and the truths reflected by word choices as its author believes that language powerfully influences attitudes, behavior, and perceptions.

POETRY The Mother and Child Dove There once was a big mother dove Who flew in the sky up above.

She had a child Who was tender and wild, And the child — the mom would always love.

Emily McAdams Fruitvale, 10 years old

Her Scared to walk to her classes Feeling dark inside Listening to the hatred down the hallway Picking her books up off the floor Shoved into the lockers every minute Getting teased because of the clothes she wears Being judged because she’s not like everyone else I should have helped her Cheyenne Cruz Cushing, 7th grade

The Pegasus Project Horse Rescue Celebrates

ASPCA Help a Horse Day April 23, 2016

Anger Red is anger Sounds like boiling lava Taste like fire; burning hot Looks like bad has taken over Makes you feel like you’re nothing.

Bailey Ross Mabank, 6th grade

9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

A carnival of fun and games for the family!

Horses Airplanes Skydivers Helicopters Sky Writing Kids’ Games Face Painting Bounce House Hot Air Balloons

Honesty Helps Now A Haiku Honesty helps us Honesty helps our country Honest helps now!

Claudia Garcia Nacogdoches, 5th grade

Admission $5 per car Food and Games available for purchase.

All proceeds benefit the rescue horses!

Wings Over Pegasus • 7111 FM 2339. Murchison, TX • 903-469-3578 www.PegasusRescue.org • www.facebook.com/PegasusRescue MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 33

MUSIC

Guitar Gifts Are Life-Changing for Kids

By Steve Freeman Ken Chinn of Longview personifies the definition of a real “guitar hero.”

In three years, Chinn has given away 500 guitars to a range of kids—some with health challenges, some with musical interest but no means to pursue it, and some simply needing a creative pastime.

The idea for his nonprofit organization, Chinn Guitar Project, began when his daughter Tara, then age 15, was being treated for epilepsy at Children’s Medical Center of Dallas. Her visit to a musical therapist there so impressed him that he offered the program a gift of 10 guitars.

Chinn, a financial advisor, spends some of his free time playing a 12-string guitar and is a regular supporter of the arts. That initial gift of 10 guitars was as rewarding for the hospital as it was for Chinn, so he kept his eyes and ears open for other needs. The requests started coming in on a regular basis.

First, his extended family was the sole funding source while music stores and guitar manufacturers gave him at-cost prices. About 60 guitars have come from his No. 1 supplier, Mundt Music in Longview. Over time, and with the start

of the nonprofit, the funding has come from other benevolent sources.

The types of gifts have also changed.

Not just 12-string guitars, but 6-string, electric, and classical guitars are also rounded up and delivered to the recipients. Many are one-half or three-quarter size ideal for youth.

Chinn said the guitars go far beyond Texas now that word has spread. He has sent guitars to half the states in the U.S. “We’re excited about helping the Louis Armstrong Center for Music and Medicine in New York,” said Chinn. “We just sent them six classical guitars; they’re on the cutting edge of music therapy.”

Chinn has also donated guitars locally: Kilgore High School; the Boys & Girls Club of Gregg County; Austin Elementary and Bonner Elementary in Tyler; and public and private schools in Longview including St. Mary’s Catholic, Crisman, Johnson-McQueen, and Spring Hill.

His organization also gives tuners, instruction books, and picks and even lines up visits by music teachers.

What does receiving a guitar mean to these kids? It’s “life-changing” for them, said Chinn.

BELOW: Employees of Mundt Music, Longview, are credited with being key supporters for the Chinn Guitar Project from the start, says Ken Chinn (far right). ABOVE RIGHT: Father and daughter Ken and Tara Chinn envisioned the campaign after Tara discovered the benefits of music therapy during a hospital visit. BELOW RIGHT: A young patient at Good Shepherd Hospital, Longview, gets some pointers from Ken Chinn after receiving her guitar.

34 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

For his part, the “guitar hero” has also gotten his rewards. He helps kids explore the world of music, and he works with his daughter who also helps fulfill the mission.

Chinn received a coveted “Advisers with Heart” award in 2015, a national recognition sponsored by REP magazine to celebrate humanitarian acts performed by members of the financial advisors’ profession.

Donations of time or money are welcome. Mail or deliver donations to Chinn Guitar Project, 404 Lakewood Drive, Longview, Texas 75604. All gifts are used exclusively for purchasing guitars for recipients.

Beatles Tribute Band Comes to Perot Theatre

A nostalgic night of music awaits fans of The Beatles when a popular cover band re-enacts the Fab Four’s famed 1964 concert at Texarkana’s Perot Theatre on Friday, March 11.

For more than 29 years, this group of performers has successfully recreated every sensation of being at a Beatles concert between 1964 and 1966 from wardrobe and hairstyles to their Liverpool accents, singing nuances, and use of vintage instruments.

The curtain rises at 7:30 p.m. March 11.

Tickets are $47, $39, and $27, and are available by phone at 903.792.4992 or online at .trahc.org/buy-tickets.

American Folk Singer Set to Play The Bowery Stage

Sassy, Classic Country Artist Bound for Greenville Stage

Called “1964 …The Tribute,” the stage performance will dazzle generations of fans, old and new, while staying true to the memories many have held dear for 50 years. Join in on celebrating The Beatles’ last world tour.

The production coming to the Perot Theatre in Texarkana has been dubbed “Best Beatles tribute on earth” by Rolling Stone Magazine, and is credited with perfecting the energy and excitement of a live Beatles performance. Like actors, these musicians cast a spell on an audience as they step into the characters.

For four decades, her sultry voice and vivacious stage presence brought songs “Delta Dawn,” “What’s Your Mama’s Name,” and “Would You Lay with Me (In a Field of Stone)” to the world. Her early hits also contained some kick-upyour-heels moments like “Texas (When I Die)” and “San Antonio Stroll.” For more info go to showtimeatthegma.com.

The Kenneth Threadgill Concert Series presents perennial country music artist Tanya Tucker in concert Friday, March 18, at the Greenville Municipal Auditorium.

Folk music icon Tom Paxton performs on The Bowery Stage in Winnsboro April 23. Paxton’s songs include “The Last Thing on My Mind,” “Bottle of Wine,” and “Whose Garden Was This.”

His songs were recorded by Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, Judy Collins, Joan Baez, John, Denver, Dolly Parton and many more. Go to winnsborocenterforthearts.com for tickets. continued page 36

Discover the East Texas Oil Fields of the 1930s

Fri.

MAR 18th 2016

7:30PM

TA N YA TUCKER

Special Guest 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

Purchase tickets at:

WWW.SHOWTIMEATTHEGMA.COM

By Phone:

877.435.9849 Or In Person at the

GMA BOX OFFICE 2821 Washington Street, Downtown Greenville

kimberly dunn

Benefiting Friends of Main Street

www.EastTexasOilMuseum.com MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 35



MUSIC MUSIC LISTINGS

Ongoing

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

March 2

8 Ball Aitken. Ben Wheeler. Moore’s Store, 15535 FM 279. 903.833.5100. mooresstore.com

MUSIC continued from Page 35

April 2

Edwin Holt’s Redclay Roadhouse Band. Jefferson. 8 p.m. $30. Auntie Skinner’s, 107 W. Austin St. rosepickermusic.com

April 8

Guy Forsyth Band. Nacogdoches. The Liberty Bell Bar, 422 E. Main Street. 936.622.6425. libertybellbar.com

April 15-16

March 4

Bri Bagwell. Ben Wheeler. Moore’s Store, 15535 FM 279. 903.833.5100. mooresstore.com

Texas State Gospel Singing Convention. Mt. Pleasant. 6 p.m. Free. Mt. Pleasant Civic Center, 1800 N. Jefferson. 817.975.1666

March 11

April 16

1964: The Tribute. Texarkana. 7:30 p.m. $27-$47. Perot Theatre, 221 Main St. 903.792.4992. trahc.org.

Hannah Kirby. Winnsboro. The Bowery Stage.

903.342.0686. winnsborocenterforthearts.com.

March 12

Tom Paxton. Winnsboro. The Bowery Stage.

903.342.0686. winnsborocenterforthearts.com.

Dana Cooper. Edom. 7:30-9:30 p.m. $ 1 2 $15. The Old Firehouse in Edom , 8241 FM 279.

903.852.2781. theoldfirehouse.net.

Beyond the Pale. Rusk. 7 p.m. $12-$15. Cherokee Civic Theatre, 200 E. 6th St. 903.683.2131. cherokeetheatre.net.

The Randy Brown Trio. Winnsboro. The Bowery Stage. 903.342.0686. winnsborocenterforthearts.com.

March 19

Dogwood Jamboree. Palestine. 7 p.m. $12.50 - $15 .Palestine Civic Center , 1819 W. Spring St. 903.729.7080. dogwoodjamboree.org

March 26

Keb’ Mo’ Booked as Headliner for June Blues Festival

April 23

April 30

Cherie Call. Edom. 7:30-9:30 p.m. $12$15. The Old Firehouse, 8241 FM 279.

903.852.2781. theoldfirehouse.net

April 30

Longview Symphony: Sensational Storytelling. Longview. 6:30-10 p.m. $10-$50.

SE Belcher Center, 2100 S. Mobberly Ave. 903.233.3080. belchercenter.com

May 13

Michael Martin Murphey. Winnsboro. The Bowery Stage. 903.342.0686. winnsborocenterforthearts.com.

Randy Brown. Lindale. 7 p.m. Lindale Community Theater, 109 W Hubbard St. lindalecommunitytheater.org

April 2

Claude Bourbon. Winnsboro. The Bowery Stage. 903.342.0686. winnsborocenterforthearts. com.

When Jacksonville’s Lee Ann Womack released her “I Hope You Dance” video in 2000, among the stars in the film was her daughter Aubrie who’s now out with a collection of songs of her own. Her debut CD, New City Blues, features 14 self-penned songs. Billboard magazine called her “One of the most-talked-about artists in Music City,” and Rolling Stone included her in its recent “10 New Country Artists You Need to Know” list.

36 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

Headlining the 11th annual T-Bone Walker Blues Fest—set for June 3 and 4 in Longview—is three-time Grammy winner and visionary roots-music storyteller Keb’ Mo.’ Mo’s recent album BLUESAmericana was named “Best Contemporary Blues Album of 2015” by the Blues Music Association.

Other performers scheduled are Danny Marks, The Eric Gales Band, Roy Gaines and his Orchestra Tuxedo Blues, Andrew “Junior Boy” Jones, Gary “Whitey Johnson” Nicholson, Edwin Holt’s Red Clay Roadhouse, Miss Marcy & Her Texas SugarDaddy’s, Robin and the Mystics, Mel Davis & the Blues Specialists, A.J. and the Two Tone Blues Band, Rafael Espinoza Band, Big Gus and Swampadelic, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Buddy Flett, Matthew Davidson Band, the Ally Venable Band, and Jimmy Wallace and the Stratoblasters.

The T-Bone Walker Blues Fest is named for the iconic musician Aaron Thibeaux Walker, who was born in 1910 near Linden, Texas, was a transformational figure in blues and rock music development, and is a member of both the Blues Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

The festival is held at the Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center.

Tickets may be purchased online at www.tbonewalkerbluesfest.com.For more information, contact 903-2371230.

LIVE MUSIC MONDAY-SATURDAY Reggae, Americana, Latin Roots, Rock, Funk Music for Everyone!

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 37

FOOD & DRINK

Lemon-Thyme Braised Chicken

By Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Dinner Tonight

East Texas Train Introduces The Pullman Table Passengers on the Texas State Railroad through the piney woods of East Texas will soon get to choose from a delicious and classy menu of food to add to the journey.

This dish is a one pan meal that is quick and delicious. The lemon and thyme adds flavor without adding salt. Also, fingerling potatoes add visual interest to the plate. They have a mild nutty flavor and are considered a waxy potato which is great for boiling, baking, roasting, and for use in salads. They are low in fat and loaded with vitamin C and potassium.

Leave the skin on to increase the fiber.

Ingredients 4 tsp. olive oil 1 tsp. dried thyme ½ tsp. dried rosemary 1/4 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. pepper 1/2 lb. fingerling potatoes (or red potatoes) 4-3 oz. chicken breasts (boneless) 2 cloves garlic minced 1 tbsp. lemon juice 1/2 lemon, sliced

Instructions 1. In a large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of oil over medium heat. Stir ½ teaspoon of dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper into the oil. Add potatoes and cook for 8-10 minutes stirring twice.

2. Push potatoes to one side of the skillet and add the remaining 2 teaspoons oil to the other side of skillet. Arrange chicken in the skillet alongside the potatoes. Cook, uncovered for 5 minutes.

3. Turn chicken. Sprinkle garlic and the remaining ½ teaspoon dried thyme over chicken. Add lemon juice and arrange lemon slices on top of the chicken. Cover and cook for 7 to 10 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink (165 degrees F) and potatoes are tender.

For more information, contact the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office at 903.473.4580 or visit rains.agrilife.org.

Local Winery Wins Multiple Awards Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards in Pittsburg started 2016 off with new accolades. LPRV was awarded a total of nine awards at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo International Wine Competition.

In the San Francisco competition, the winners were among a record 7,162 entries. Los Pinos received the double gold designation for its Blanco Grande. Red blends— Meritage and Symphony—both took home silver medals and the cabernet sauvignon earned a bronze medal.

Photo by Lori Ivey

In the Houston competition, Los Pinos was awarded a bronze medal for its cabernet sauvignon and silver medals for its Texican and Texas Torte. Blanco Grande and Besitos de Chocolate both took home the prestigious Reserve Class Champion, Texas Class awards.

38 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

The rail system’s trek between Palestine and Rusk will soon offer a new dining experience. Dubbed “The Pullman Table,” the menu features more regional foods paired with wine and beer from nearby areas which truly give guests a “taste” of East Texas.

Carefully brought back to service and ardently detailed to be as historically accurate as possible, the classic Pullman cars offer passengers the chance to rediscover the style, ambiance, and craftsmanship of the golden age of rail travel.

The specialty railroad service has hired a new chef to develop a menu that represents the region. East Texans will enjoy the same service being offered by the Premier Rail Collection on select routes based in Chicago; New Orleans; Saratoga Springs, New York; and Mount Hood, Oregon.

“The Pullman Table is an exciting project for our rail lines,” said Angela Lane, vice president of sales and marketing for Premier. “For so long, railroads were an integral part of moving fresh, regional food and we want to reintroduce trains as a premier way to enjoy that bounty.”

Those choosing to ride in Diamond Class will enjoy a space in a mid-century dome car with panoramic windows that allow unobstructed views of the peaceful passing landscape. Standard Class passengers occupy vintage diner and lounge cars. Guests in Standard Class can choose from first or second seating options; both include a chef-prepared meal and non-alcoholic beverages.

For more information, visit www.texasstaterr.com or call 877-726-7245.

Best Steakhouse

County Line Magazine Hall of Fame

RESTAURANT – LIVE MUSIC – FULL BAR — MOORE FUN! OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK. ENJOY SPORTS TV. FOOD & DRINK SPECIALS.

PICK UP ORDERS WELCOME

UNPLUG & DOWN

WED 7 PM NO COVER

DAILY BEST Burgers and Fries!

LIVE MUSIC EVERY WEDNESDAY, FRIDAY & SATURDAY

SAT MAR 5 Aaron Copeland

M A R C H A P R I L

SAT MAR 19 Statesboro Revue

WEDNESDAY’S 2nd 8 Ball Aitken 9th Clay Thrash 16th Chris Colston 23rd Austin Layne 30th Devin Leigh 6th Jordan York 13th Luke LaPrade 20th Duke Bros 27th Doug Kent

THURSDAY’S 17th Stefan Cotter

7th Bobby Duncan 14th Jason Herrin 21st Jimmy Bailey 28th Ben Lowery

FRI APR 1

Cody Canada & The Departed

FRI APR 22 Erick Willis

FRIDAY’S

SATURDAY’S

4th Bri Bagwell 11th Ben Lowery & Texas Express 18th Elaina Kay 25th Breelan Angel

5th Aaron Copeland 12th Gary Patrick 19th Statesboro Revue 26th Landon & Bri

1st Cody Canada & The Departed 8th Red Shahan 15th Battle of the Bands 22nd Erick Willis 29th Jason James

2nd Bigsby’s 9th Wesley Pruitt Band 16th Kris Gordon 23rd Chase McClanahan 30th Wayland Hicks & The Travelers

www.mooresstore.com • 903.833.5100

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

Top 100 American Steakhouses OpenTable.com

A Texas Tradition

MORE FOOD & FUN!

& Over 20 Varieties of Hamburgers Hand Dipped Blue Bell Breakfast Anytime Hwy 19 near I-20, Canton, Texas

Open 24/7 903-567-6551 dairypalace.com

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

Go to County Line eMagazine for more fun food and drink articles, recipes, dining ideas, wineries, farmers markets, and events.

Make A Reservation

countylinemagazine.com/ Food-Drink

www.fourwindssteakhouse.com

903.873.2225

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 39

EXPLORE THE UPPER EAST SIDE OF TEXAS Springtime Beckons a Walk, Run, or Ride Down One of the Many East Texas Trails

By LouAnn Campbell Spring is in the air in East Texas. It’s the perfect time and place to lace up some hiking boots or sneakers and head outside.

There are some amazing trails in the region to spend some time with nature and a good place to start is the North East Texas Trail (NETT).

The NETT trail encompasses 130 miles of recycled rail banked corridor. This unique piece of Texas history stretches from Farmersville to New Boston. It winds through 19 towns and seven counties.

“We come out here when it’s nice just to walk,” said Laura Perales of Paris. Laura, her husband enjoy their walks on the trail with their three-year-old son.

The NETT has an interesting history.

When Earl Erickson retired as the Pasadena parks and recreation director and moved to Paris, Texas, in 2003, he knew he needed a project to keep him busy. Erickson saw the NETT as a way to contribute to area communities and the health of its citizens. His work has allowed the vision of repurposing an invaluable rail banked corridor into pedestrian, bicycle, and equestrian trails to come to life.

The Trail at Heart East of Farmersville by some 67 miles, the Collegiate Trail Head in Paris holds the distinction of being “The Heart of the NETT.” Signage features a commemorative railroad tie and spikes.

The trail continues from 8th Street in Paris, and the towns of Reno and Blossom are on the map in the next 11 miles.

The Trail de Paris is a great place to enjoy the city and take to the trail. Pack a lunch and head to the observation deck. Grab a yoga mat for a stretch or a meditation session on one of the designated yoga spots in the Outdoor Yoga Park.

“I come over here to get outside and walk. I enjoy nature,” said 92-year-old Silas McFarlane of Paris.

“In five years the entire trail will be paved or chipped and the bridges will be fixed,” Erickson said.

When the Northeast Texas trail is finally completed, it will be one of the longest trails of its kind in the country. No motorized traffic is allowed so walkers, runners, and cyclists are safe to enjoy nature at their own pace.

For now, trail conditions are provided at www.northeasttexastrail.org.

The Two-Wheel Preference

“The longer the trail, the more people will travel to use it,” Erickson said.

Cyclists in East Texas are a close knit group, always looking for an adventure.

They love the outdoors and the peaceful solitude of riding their bikes around East Texas.

Erickson developed the NETT Coalition.

The advocacy group works with the Texas Department of Fish and Wildlife, rail bank agencies, and landowners on the continued development of the NETT.

In June a bicycle ride called “Ride the NETT” is planned. It will leave out of Farmersville June 19. Sign-up and information can be found on the Ride the NETT Facebook event page.

Westward Ho!

A group of riders from the Longview and Marshall area take to the rural East Texas farm roads for what is known as “gravelgrinding.” Stagecoach Road near Marshall is a great location to get on a mountain bike or a cyclo-cross bike and get off the beaten path and away from the traffic of the paved highways.

Head out to the west side of NETT and call “wheels down” or start your run or walk at the Audie L. Murphy Trail Head near the historic onion shed in downtown Farmersville. There, visitors can enjoy a ride or hike on 2.5 miles of concrete and 2.5 miles of granite maintained by the city.

Parts of the NETT are still very austere and not paved or covered in gravel, but the views are amazing. The picturesque but damaged Sulphur River Bridge does not extend over the river and will require passersby to take in the scenery on an alternate path.

40 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

“It’s a peaceful place to enjoy the scenery and train for my upcoming races,” said Bruce Stephens of Longview. He is currently training to race in the “Dirty Kanza,” a premier 200-mile endurance race on the gravel roads of Kansas.

“We don’t have to worry about traffic and people texting and driving while we ride

out here,” said Anna Mullinax. Anna and her husband Richard are avid cyclists and mountain bikers who have ridden all the trails in East Texas as well as those in Shreveport.

The Stephens and the Mullinax’s make their way to the Davy Crockett National Forest near Alto to ride the hundreds of miles of gravel and forest roads.

Mission Tejas State Park, outside of Alto, is a great place to set up camp and take out the hiking boots. With miles of trails winding through the Davy Crockett National Forest, hikers can crush those Fitbit step goals and take in some amazing East Texas scenery.

For another option, Tyler State Park offers a 13-mile trail system for hiking and mountain biking that traverses up and down hills and over man-made bridges.

Every year the Ray Porter Memorial Race is held there.

Tyler is also home to Faulkner Park and Lindsey Park. These pristine trails offer a challenging mountain bike ride and hiking to their patrons. Hit these up for an adrenaline charged ride, a run, or a relaxing hike. Bring the dog.

For mountain bike novices, the Herrington Patriot Center on the campus of the University of Texas at Tyler encourages that exploration. Mountain bikes are for rent at $5 a day. UT Tyler is home to a four-mile trail where mountain bikers can shred right on the campus. Pat Mayse State Wildlife Area, located northeast of Paris, is home to the Barber Hills Trail, and features 11 miles of trail for mountain biking and hiking.

“It’s an awesome place to ride, hike, and enjoy nature right here in our own backyard,” said Bryan Hargis, trail steward.

Texarkana is home to Camp Preston Hunt where a 6.7-mile mountain bike trail keeps the adrenaline pumping. The Bringle Lake trail system consists of a three-mile stretch of trail that takes riders and hikers around the beautiful lake.

Hamby Mountain Bike Trail in Longview is operated by the Longview Area Multisports Association. A membership in the association is needed in order to ride the trail.

Go for a Long Walk

East Texas also includes many parks and outdoor places for a leisurely walk.

LEFT: The collegiate trail head in Paris is the start of 11 miles of paved trail that links Paris to Reno and on to Blossom. ABOVE TOP-BOTTOM: 92-year-old Silas McFarlane enjoys getting outside and walking among nature in Paris. Jordan Kinney and Miko out for a walk in Rose Redman Park in Tyler.

The Perales family enjoys their walks on the Trail de Paris. Mountain bikers take to the single track of Lindsey Park in Tyler. Photos by LouAnn Campbell

The Azalea Trail offers glimpses of nature as it follows Hurricane Creek through the heart of Lufkin. Walkers can view native plants and small gardens, and perhaps even see numerous bird species, including owls, woodpeckers, and warblers. Although just under two miles, the trail connects two well-loved community parks.

Various other parks are also worth checking out. The Cargill Long Park Trail runs for three miles through Longview.

The trail follows an old rail bed along a

wooded corridor among suburban neighborhoods and parks. Rose Rudman Park in Tyler is a picturesque place to walk the dog. This 1.2-mile trail offers beautiful bridges and landscaped areas to get some exercise and enjoy the day. Caddo Lake State Park near Karnack offers a 2.5-mile hiking adventure to some exercise. The Lanana Creek Trail in Nacogdoches provides 3.5 miles of trails for East Texans to enjoy. The Atlanta State Park in Cass County is a great place for a nature hike on the 3.8-mile trail.

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 41

42 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

One of a Kind 305 Alaska • Van, Texas

Mineola Civic Center, 1150 N. Newsom Free Admission

Home. Garden. Outdoor Recreation.

Boat. RV. Travel.

Hosted by Mineola Area Chamber of Commerce

MAY 13-14 MINEOLA, TEXAS

4BR, 3BA, 2GA with 2300 Sq ft on over half an acre. Gourmet kitchen features granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, breakfast area, and formal dining. Home elegantly includes two master suites with large walk in closets. Open concept, all new electrical, plumbing. Features custom lighting, instant hot water, large utility room, oversized garage, stone fire place and much more. MLS # 10062880

H

Schedule your showing today.

Meet Bob Mauldin of Expedition Texas.

See the latest RVs and Boats.

Learn from the Experts about Gardening, Hobby Farming, & Home Repair.

Brian Braquet 903-539-1878 www.BrianBraquet.com

COUNTY LINE MARKETPLACE

903-569-2087 • chamber@mineola.com www.MineolaChamber.org

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

GON WHEEL WAANTIQUE MALL

Authorized E-File Provider

Bill Hullum, CPA PC 649 W. Main • Box 545, Van, TX 75790 903.963.5865

H Bar Hauling

625 Hwy 31 East #6 • Chandler, TX 75758 903.849.4994

Meeting all your hauling needs.

Derek Hazel 903.316.6091

www.billhullumcpa.com

Hay. Equipment. Livestock.

Pawpa’s House in the country

Voted Best Antique Store 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

by County Line Magazine readers

12,000 square feet

Home Decor & Furniture

Vintage Vinyl Records, Art Pottery, Art Glass, Silver, China, Candles, Fine American and European Furniture, Texas Primitives, WesternCollectibles,Rugs,Gifts,Chandeliers, and so much more!

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

903-469-4321 7150 SH 31E • Murchison www.wagonwheelantiquemall.com

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 43

FEEL GOOD Outstanding Women Honored in Tyler ler’s early black citizens. Until she took an interest, more than 400 grave markers had been destroyed, vandalized, or had simply deteriorated. Through her efforts, the Oakwood Cemetery Restoration Committee was formed and funds were raised to restore the markers. One of the most popular events at the cemetery is the “Spirits of Oakwood” tour which takes place annually during the Azalea and Spring Flower Trails. Volunteers take on the roles of historic figures buried in the cemetery and give living accounts of their past lives to visitors. Proceeds from this event help repair monuments at the cemetery.

Every year since 1999, the Women in Tyler organization celebrates Women’s History Month by recognizing a group of women who contribute to the quality of life in the community.

Six honorees are named this year and are feted at a March 31 luncheon at Tyler Rose Garden Center. The focus of this year’s awards is “Women with a Cause.” The purpose is to identify those women who put feet to the causes they are most passionate about.

“They are our community’s all-stars, and we are excited for this opportunity to honor them,” said Louellen Lowe, event co-chair.

The 2016 honorees are noted below.

Debra Davis is the child care director at the YMCA of Tyler and has a passion for helping children. She is responsible for the Y’s after school program, the pre-school program, summer camps, and day camps. Over 450 children a day are cared for in the Prime Time after school program. When the Y lost its CEO, Davis stepped into that role as well and became the staff supervisor until the new CEO was hired. Her goal, which she achieves every day, is to have every child leave her programs with the Y’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Regina Davis is the director of the East Texas Medical Center’s Breast Cancer Center and works with a volunteer group called East Texas Medical Center Pin-A-Sister. This group seeks to increase the number of AfricanAmerican women over 40 who get annual mammograms. Since the group started, more than 6,500 women have pledged to get mammograms.

Gayle Helms is the executive director of The Humane Society’s Pets Fur People. She helps match animals with the perfect people. She coordinates the “Pet of the Week” on five television stations, 14 radio stations, and 28 daily and community newspapers. She works with Meals on Wheels to deliver

One of this year’s Women in Tyler honorees, Gillian Sheridan, interviews one of the kids from her “Children Are a Gift” series on CBS19 that helps foster children find forever homes. Courtesy photo.

pet food twice a month to clients with pets. She helps train volunteers and their pets to become therapy pets. In 2014, more than 142 pet therapists were trained who then volunteered more than 17,000 hours to the community.

Maxine Herbst started the Oakwood Cemetery committee in 1997 to work with the City of Tyler Parks and Recreation Department to preserve history and improve the conditions of the cemetery. This cemetery is the final resting place of a state governor, a U.S. senator, the founding families of Tyler, many veterans, and many of Ty-

44 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

Gillian Sheridan is the CBS19 evening news anchor who does a weekly segment called “Children Are a Gift” that helps East Texas foster children find their forever homes. Her weekly program and news stories have won many awards. She works with her church in an adoption ministry called “Hope for 100” to find homes for foster children.

She and her husband James adopted two girls. She has served on the board of the Children’s Advocacy Center and the Junior League of Tyler.

Astlima Vargas is the director of Ninos de Promesa program at First Baptist Church. This program is for pre-kindergarten Hispanic children and their parents to help the children become English proficient by the time they start school. The parents are enrolled in English as a Second Language classes at the same time. From all accounts, the program is hugely successful as the graduates of this program out perform others as they enter and continue through school.

Doors open for the March 31 award luncheon at 11 a.m. and the program starts at 11:45 a.m. To make reservations, send a $25 check to Women in Tyler, P.O. Box 1432, Tyler, TX 75710.

Early reservations are encouraged since the event typically sells out.

www.VisitEdom.com 12TH ANNUAL

Old-Fashioned Small Town Street Fair for Adults, Kids & Pets!

DRAGONHEAD RETREAT

Saturday & Sunday April 16-17, 2016

B&B on 25 Wooded Acres at 675' The Lodge (sleeps 9+) Cedar Cabin (sleeps 4+) Outside Living Area • WiFi • Kid Friendly

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

FREE ADMISSION

903-520-2069 Vrbo.com/559168 dragonheadretreat.com

MARIPOSA CABIN Quiet Relaxation in the East Woods Hand-crafted, lofted 1 bedroom cottage 903-571-2423 Vrbo.com/354940

Unique Handmade Crafts. Live Music.

Festival Food. Pet Parades & Contests.

5K Run. Cruise Night. Live Auction.

Tyler Obedience Demonstrations.

Interactive Kids Area & More!

Downtown Edom • Corner Hwy 279/314

844.6EdomTX www.VisitEdom.com

ARBOR CASTLE BIRDHOUSES Open Thurs-Sat. 10-4

903.316.9580 903.852.7893 arborcastlebirdhouses.com

THE FARM HOUSE RETREAT

A Unique East Texas Experience Lodging, Weddings, Retreats 903.749.1682 farmhouseretreat.com

POTTERS BROWN STUDIO & GALLERY Original Handmade Stoneware

VINTAGE EDOM

Coffee Shop. Mid Century Cool Items.

Vintage Antiques. Boutiques.

Collectibles. Arts & Crafts.

Yard Art & Ornamental Fixtures 903.852.5552 • EdomGallery.com

GLENDA MAE’S FARM

BLUE MOON GARDENS

Daylilies and More

Perennials. Herbs.

Garden Art. Gift Shop Open Daily 9-5

903.235.2529 glendamaesdaylilyfarm.com

903.852.3897 www.bluemoongardens.com

903.852.6473 pottersbrown.com

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 45

KILGORE, TEXAS KILGOGH ARTS FESTIVAL March 26-27 downtown

Indulge in

AVALON FAIRE Weekends in April on FM 1252

PAPER

YOU DESERVE IT Upper East Side of Texas Regional Magazine Learn more at KilGogh.com

Find details at AvalonFaire.com

RANGERETTE REVELS April 6-9 in Dodson Auditorium

4 STAR SPRING FILM FESTIVAL Friday-Saturday, March 26-27

SUBSCRIBE! In celebration of our 15th anniversary get a one-year subscription in 2015 for just $15 per year!

county line

Log on to Rangerette.com

Showtimes: FoothillsEntertainment.com

KILGORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & VISITORS BUREAU

903.963.8306 • countylinemagazine.com SUBMIT ORDER BY WEBSITE, PHONE, OR MAIL TO P.O. BOX 608 • BEN WHEELER, TX 75754

813 N. Kilgore St. • Kilgore, Texas 75662 903-984-5022 • Fax 903-984-4975 • VisitKilgore.com

GREENVILLE

North Texas with a Twist!

Loved the Barrel Ro

omTour at Landon

The

nd murals public art a

s!!

g!

were dazzlin

travelgreenvilletx.com Dinner and show at

theTexanTheater.. W ow!

46 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2016

We’re ready to surprise you!

CREATIVE DESIGNS, EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY WWW.PAULMICHAELCOMPANY.COM | 903.567.0363 CANTON, TX | 1930 N. TRADE DAYS BLVD. |

MARCH/APRIL 2016 • COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 47

Land is our middle name.

We finance it.

If you’re looking to buy land for hunting, recreation, an ag operation or just a place to retire on, there’s one name in Texas to know. Heritage Land Bank is the right financing partner for anyone buying land in rural Texas. In fact, nobody knows Texas better. Talk to a Heritage lender today about the best loan for you, including the option of fixed-rate loans with terms up to 30 years. If you’re ready to buy, we’re ready to help.

Finan cing the

Wide-Open Space

903.534.4975 • HeritageLandBank.com/CountyLine EQUAL HOUSING LENDER

NMLS# 408898

s