March/April 2020 County Line Magazine

county line Upper East Side of Texas

CountyLineMagazine.com

Farm to Table

MARCH/APRIL 2020

M A G A Z I N E

Celebrating 20 Years

Locally Grown Food for Ultimate Flavor

FAIRY

EISENHOWER LEGACY VAN GO ART GREENVILLE GETAWAY GREEK KOUZINA QUINLAN TREASURE STICK FIGURES FARMHOUSE POTTER DOGWOOD JAM GARDENS

A place to Bloom

From antiques to boutiques or one-of-a-kind creations, treasures are blooming at every turn in downtown Waxahachie.

Every weekend, there’s something popping up including the Tulips at Poston Gardens, Scarborough Renaissance Festival, Crossroads of Texas Film & Music Festival, and much more.

waxahachiecvb.com | 469-309-4040

2 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

county line

MAGAZINE

Reach those who Live & Play in the Upper East Side of Texas

anch R of Dreams

The sanctuary is not a zoo but is now open to the public on select days each month for small, prescheduled, guided tours to respect the peace and privacy of the animals. Check out our events page for upcoming tour dates, and schedule your tour today!

www.fundforanimals.org/ranchofdreamstour

Get a behind the scenes experience working alongside the animal care and facilities teams caring for more than 800 animals from 40 different species, enjoy a plant based lunch, and end the day with a tour of the over 1,400 acres of Black Beauty Ranch. Schedule your tour today!

www.fundforanimals.org/cabbrsocialimpact 12526 1252 6 Co Rd 3806, Murchison, TX 7577 75778 8 (903 903)) 469-3811

ADVERTISE. IT WORKS!

V VAANN Z ANNDDT T Z A ARTS & CULTURAL DISTRICT ARTS & CULTURAL DISTRICT

Art Galleries. Live Music. Restaurants Lodging. Shopping. Theatre Wineries. Parks & Golf Museums. History. Nature Special Events

CountyLineMagazine.com

(903) 963-1101

www.VanZandtACD.com Edom, Van, and Ben Wheeler, Texas MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 3

CONTENTS 8

FEATURES

8 Farm to Table: Fresh and Fun

Guests enjoy the ultimate culinary experience at special events, restaurants, and farmers markets.

By P.A. Geddie

16 Fairy Gardens of Dogwood Park Tiny fairy homes are nestled among the flowering dogwoods in Palestine.

By Lisa Tang

DEPARTMENTS 5 Editor’s Note

THIS TIME OF YEAR

20 The Art of Samuel Countee, McKinney’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, and Spring Flower Trails

16

LIFESTYLE & ENTERTAINMENT 22 22 24 26

Look for Treasures in Quinlan Event Picks Eisenhower Birthplace/Legacy Trip Great Greenville Getaway

ARTS & CULTURE 30 Dave Hendley’s Farmhouse Pottery 32 Van Go Art Fair 34 Rangerettes at Longview Art Museum

STAGE 35 Dogwood Jamboree

32

LITERARY 36 Master of Stick Figures 37 Legend at Lanana Creek

MUSIC

30

40 The Hit Men Play Classic Rock 40 Music Picks 41 John McEuen and the String Wizards

FOOD & DRINK 44 A Taste of Greece

Cover: Apple Grove lamb stack and spiralized red potatoes was one course served at Junebug Farm to Table dinner at The Forge Bar & Grill in Ben Wheeler. Photo by Wesley Jones

SEE WEBSITE EXTRAS! www.CountyLineMagazine.com 4 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

county line Since 2000

MAGAZINE

Serving those living & playing in the Upper East Side of Texas

PUBLISHER & MANAGING EDITOR P.A. Geddie

CONTRIBUTORS P.A. Geddie Judy Peacock Tracy Torma Lisa Tang Wendy Floyd Wesley Jones Beth Shumate Darrell Lindsey

ADVERTISING pa.geddie@countylinemagazine.com

EDITOR’S NOTE Dear Readers, Ah, spring. A magnificent time of year in the Upper East Side of Texas.

We’re kicking off a celebration of all things Farm to Table in this issue. It’s about eating locally-grown foods and wine and the difference that makes in taste, nutrition, and economy.

Read about Chef Sara Brisco’s amazing — and I don’t use that word lightly — dinner she prepared in The Forge Bar & Grill backyard at her first farm-to-table dinner last summer. Almost 100 percent of the ingredients in a seven-course meal came from this region down to the salt from Grand Saline.

She set the bar high but I’m willing to bet her upcoming dinner in June is equally as good. Mark your calendars for this one and numerous other farm-to-table dinners that take place in this region that is fortunate to have so many farmers and vineyards providing easy access to fresh ingredients for these menus.

There’s also a growing number of restaurants that serve locally-grown food — be sure to ask when dining out and let us know what you find.

For those that want to try your own recipes and farm fresh meals, check out the farmers’ markets starting soon -— besides good food many feature demonstrations, live music, and other activities make for a fun day.

Some farms welcome public access like Full Quiver Farm in Kemp and Waldo Way in Mineola, both with fresh dairy products.

Other things to do in the region this spring include enjoying the beautiful flower trails and be sure to look for the fairy homes during the Dogwood Trails Celebration in Palestine. Visit with talented artists at the Van Go Art Fair; hear great live music in Greenville, Winnsboro, Edom, Ben Wheeler, and all over the region.

Enjoy!

SUBSCRIPTIONS

P.A. Geddie

info@countylinemagazine.com

LETTERS County Line Magazine is published every other month, 6 times a year. Subscription costs: $15 per year. 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 2020, County Line all rights reserved.

Material may not be reproduced without written permission.

Opinions expressed in articles or advertising appearing in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher.

Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Ben Wheeler, TX 75754 Phone: 903.963.1101. 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 903.963.1101. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement we deem incompatible with our mission.

(RE: JAN/FEB 2020: Butterfly Snuggles/ Lucille Geddie). What a joy this lovely lady is. She taught me love from an early age. She never judged. She only had love in her heart. When she would look at you in the morning with those eyes filled with love and acceptance, you knew it was true. I love this lady and all she was and still is today. I am so blessed to have had her influence in my life.

She taught me many things but most of all love and acceptance. Thank you Lucille. I love you. over 20 years, For overFor 20 years,

Texans for the Texans forArts the Arts

Mary Ransopher Red Oak

has consistently worked to:worked to: has consistently Protect Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) arts funding

Protect Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) arts funding

Increase funding for the Texas Commission on the Arts

Increase funding for the Texas Commission on the Arts

The Official Arts Advocacy

The Organization Official Arts Advocacy for Texas Organization Texans for the Arts is at the forefront offor empoweringTexas artists, arts leaders, committed supporters, and citizen activists like

Texansyou! forTogether the Artsweiscan at amplify the forefront of empowering artists, our powerful voices to increase arts leaders, committed supporters, citizen activists both public and private resources toand build strong, dynamic,like you! and Together wecommunities can amplifyallour powerful creative across Texas. voices to increase both public and private resources to build strong, dynamic, and creative communities all across Texas.

CHECK OUT COUNTY LINE DIGITAL PUBLICATIONS www.CountyLineMagazine.com

Expand the conversation about the vital role the arts in our Expand theand conversation play schools communitiesabout the vital role the arts

County Line Magazine is very informative and interesting. I love reading it from cover to cover.

in our schools communities Supportplay tax policies and otherand measures that help artists arts organizations and Support tax policies and other measures that help

Advocate for increased for the National artists and artsfunding organizations Endowment for the Arts and for federal policies that Advocate funding for the National support artists andfor artsincreased organizations.

Endowment for the Arts and for federal policies that support artists and arts organizations.

Mary Heddins Edgewood

Love your magazine!

Clydene Cohen Winnsboro You are doing an excellent job of bringing us informative and interesting articles on East Texas and this online access (County Line Weekly eNews) is fabulous.

Jan Switzer Mount Vernon

Please feel free to send us your comments.

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

Go to LETTERS on www.countylinemagazine.com.

MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 5

county line

weekly MAGAZINE

GOOD NEWS for the Upper East Side of Texas

SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE to receive good news in your inbox every Sunday morning.

stay dine shop

play

Between County Line print issues, read more about the people, places, and things that make the Upper East Side of Texas the best place to live, dream, and explore.

Includes events, attractions, articles, food, drinks, arts, culture, lifestyle, entertainment, people profiles, and more.

Go to www.CountyLineMagazine.com and click on SUBSCRIBE to find the WEEKLY or email your address to info@countylinemagazine.com with WEEKLY in the subject line.

For assistance, call (903) 963-1101.

6 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

VISIT HENDERSON, TEXAS 25TH ANNUAL

Antique Tractor & Engine Show Downtown Merchants invite you to shop, have fun, and rest in the Alley on Main!

April 24-25 Rusk County Expo Center Member Contact: (903) 889-2671 Based on the 20th Century Fox picture

9 to 5

May 15-17 & 22-24

Henderson Civic Theatre 122 E. Main St. (903) 657-2968 www.hendersoncivictheatre.org

Rusk County Wildflower Trails

Visit the Depot Museum

April 15th- May 31st

Self-driving tour on three driving trails of Rusk County Maps are available by contacting

City of Henderson Department of Tourism

866-650-5529 www.VisitHendersonTX.com

514 N. High Street

PRESENTS

EUROPEAN EXCURSIONS

String Trios by Kodaly and Sibelius, Vaughan Williams Phantasy Quintet and Sextet in B flat major by Brahms

SATURDAY, APRIL 18, 7:30 P.M.

Mark Miller and Hyun Jeong Lee, violins: Ute Miller and John Batchelder, viola; Sebastian Kozub and Marie-Thais Oliver, cello

Mount Vernon Music Hall

903.563.3780 WWW.MOUNTVERNONMUSIC.ORG

MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 7

Farm to Table: Fresh and Fun Dining on Locally-Grown Food Provides the Ultimate Culinary Experience

One grand thing found in abundance in the Upper East Side of Texas is fresh, locally-grown food. For those looking for the ultimate dining experience, nothing beats the taste of meals prepared with ingredients that came from just a few miles away or even from a venue’s backyard.

From dairy farms like Waldo Way in Mineola and Full Quiver Farm in Kemp, to grass-fed meat sources too numerous to mention, to herb gardens, and fabulous farmers markets showcasing thousands of growers, this region is rich beyond measure with what it takes for the tastiest dining experiences.

And don’t forget the wine. The soil in the Upper East Side of Texas is proving perfect for growing grapes, and wine makers are taking advantage of that. Numerous wines from the region are winning awards from all over the world.

Locally created wines and foods paired together make incredible meals for those that live and visit in the region.

Most of the farmers markets start in May and run through October. Some farms like Red Moon Farm in Van offer fresh produce year round.

Many of the rural towns and restaurants take advantage of these resources and either feature local foods daily or put

together farm-to-table special events throughout the year.

Chef Sara Brisco with The Forge Bar & Grill in Ben Wheeler uses locally-grown foods in her menu on a daily basis.

Last year she started a backyard farmto-table event to kick off her annual Junebug Summer Fair. Proceeds benefit the Van Zandt Arts & Cultural District Foundation. Here she shares her menu and process that went into creating what guests said was the ultimate culinary experience.

Her goal was to produce a five-course menu (which turned into seven) using only local ingredients, down to the salt from Grand Saline.

She teamed up with farmers’ market manager D.J. Warren to help locate many of the ingredients.

Guests entered the backyard gardens behind The Forge to beautifully decorated picnic tables. The decor was simple and rustic with wildflowers in upcycled Patron bottle vases -- a perfect fit for this venue.

Twisted Rhythm played soft jazz on stage under the trees and white lights strung from branches put a nice glow on the evening.

The attentive, uniformed staff greeted each arriving guest with a sample of red

8 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

or white wines from Green Goat Winery of Edom and White Fox Winery of Murchison.

People enjoyed a short stroll around the yard and a sneak peak at the art of the Junebug Summer Fair that opened to the public the next day. Meeting the artists and purchasing art added to this experience for many.

Then guests took their seats and introduced themselves to their dining companions for the evening, part of the fun of this kind of community event.

First Course The first plate arriving was a Peach Salad with Haute Goat Chevre, a colorful display promising a fruit and herb taste explosion. It was paired with a white wine from Valle della Pace Vineyards in Garden Valley.

This East Texas summer salad was tossed in balsamic and oil with grilled peaches, blueberries, red onion, sprouts, greens, mint, chevre, and candied pecans.

“The peaches were from Orchard Farms in Troup, blueberries from Blueberry Hill Farms in Edom, and red onion from Gopher Knoll Farm in Athens,” Brisco says.

Other ingredients in the salad were sunflower sprouts and radish micro greens Continued page 10

Photos by Wesley Jones/Thunder Bridge Photography

By P.A. Geddie

MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 9

from Papa Boat’s Patch in Grand Saline, mixed greens from Red Moon Farm, mint from The Forge herb garden, chevre from Haute Goat Creamery in Longview, and pecans from Perryman’s in Athens.

“This salad is quintessential East Texas summer,” Brisco says. “We’ve got the juiciest peaches, the sweetest blueberries, (much of our soil is naturally acidic making for naturally prolific berry plants) and the sweetest onions pulled from our sugar sand. Randle from Papa Boat’s Patch has the greenest of thumbs and has mastered the art of growing sunflower sprouts. They are my favorite — crisp and juicy with a mild nutty flavor.

“And the chevre from Haute Goat, it’s just so good we used their cheeses in everything we could.”

Brisco said her only “local” cheats on this dish were the balsamic and pecan oil which came from Kinloch Plantation in Louisiana. Close enough.

Second Course

The second course was Gazpacho & Bass Ceviche served with White Fox Vineyard’s Texas White.

“We went with a cold gazpacho — it’s perfect for the summer heat,” Brisco says. “We blended tomatoes from three different local farms (Brisco and Saxon in Ben Wheeler and Gardens at Peaceful Valley in Athens), along with garlic and onions from Gopher Knoll, cucumbers from Highway 19 Produce & Berries in Athens, and herbs from The Forge garden for the perfect flavor.

“This was the perfect soup for a last-minute surprise pairing with ceviche. Our resident fisherman, Mr. Dwayne Price, came through with the freshest, most beautiful, freshwater bass a ceviche lover could hope for, and he even cleaned it.”

Brisco learned the art of cooking using local ingredients in a variety of places.

“I fell in love with ceviche traveling in Central and South America,” she says. “Each region is fluid in the use of local fresh ingredients. I learned a free style in preparing food from our southern neighbors.

All the answers don’t come from a beautifully-worn, stained cookbook, but from what’s in hand, what’s fresh, what you can pull from the garden or lake that very day. Pairing the ceviche with the gazpacho also allowed us to put two courses in one.”

Third Course

Already impressed with the beautiful flavors of courses one and two, many guests said it was the third course that was over-the-top amazing — a Heritage Pork Tamale with Shishito Peppers.

“This was a fun one,” Brisco says, “Let’s throw tamales into the mix of fine dining? Why not? These were some fine tamales and plus we are Texans — he who does not love tamales shall travel north.”

Creating the tamales started with heritage pork from Chandler Family Farm in Mabank.

“We slow smoked it in its very own fat, making it simply delicious,” Brisco says. “Along with Havarti from Haute Goat and our homegrown salsa verde, we rolled up what might have been the best tamales in the world. We sprinkled them with feta from Haute Goat and garnished with shishitos from Bobby Bever at Highway 19. We scored 10 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM •MARCH/APRIL 2020

Photos by Wesley Jones/Thunder Bridge Photography

FARM TO TABLE continued from page 9

tomatillos from Free Earth Project (a vibrant new nonprofit from Athens with a goal of putting fresh food in the mouths of hungry folk, and it’s free and organic; along with my father’s onions; garlic from Gopher Knoll; and cilantro, green chilis, and poblanos from our garden.”

A slight cheat on this one is the Masa which is milled in Edinburg in South Texas.

The tamales were paired with 1543 from Castle Oaks Winery in Athens.

Fourth Course

The fourth course was Apple Grove Lamb Stack with Lenoir semi-dry red wine from Green Goat Vineyard.

The lamb for this dish came from Apple Grove Farm in Ben Wheeler.

“It was rubbed in roasted garlic, salt, oregano, and thyme and grilled to a medium rare,” Brisco says.

The lamb was sprinkled with The Forge garden seasonings including oregano and thyme, and topped with Haute Goat chevre, and served with spiralized and fried red potatoes from Brisco Farms. Pickled red onions from Gopher Knoll made a tasty garnish, and on the side for dipping was a dollop of tzatziki made from The Forge dill, Highway 19 cucumbers, Gopher Knoll garlic and Waldo Way yogurt.

Fifth Course

Fifth course was a palette cleanse, a delicious homemade raspberry sorbet by Double Barrel Dessert Company of Ben Wheeler.

Sixth Course

Sixth course was Happy Cattle Beef Rosette Pinwheel, Roasted Carrots, and a Red Asian Long Bean paired with a Malbec from Castle Oaks Winery.

The grass-fed beef was donated by Happy Cattle Co. It was served with Gopher Knoll roasted garlic and Haute Goat chevre, roasted carrots from Gardens at Peaceful Valley and Red Asian long beans, rosemary, and herbs from The Forge gardens, along with roasted red potato and baby onion from Brisco Farms. A puree was made with butter from Waldo Way and mushrooms grown at Texas Fungus in Arlington.

Seventh Course

The final course was a Blueberry Hill Farms Mini Pastry with Deb’s Vanilla Ice Cream and paired with Chocolate Abyss from Castle Oaks Winery.

“Blueberry Hill Farms baked all these sweet little treats the day of the event so they would be hot and fresh,” Brisco says. “So many people pitched in to help make this event a perfect culinary experience and we’re looking forward to the next one.”

Junebug Farm to Table 2020 takes place on June 19. Visit www.theforgebenwheeler.com for more information.

This summer D.J. Warren will oversee Locally Forged, a farmers’ market taking place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday May through July at The Forge Bar & Grill so ingredients will really be close at hand.

For other farm-to-table events, markets, and venues, see the ads following this article and visit www.countylinemagazine.com for more information throughout the year.

MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 11

FARM TO TABLE Saturday, April 25

Sunday, May 17

Plant market, gift shop, fiber arts studio, and special events year round. On April 25 is the Basil Festival where guests learn how to grow, harvest, and enjoy basil treats.

Cooking demonstrations, programs, and refreshments are free. Enjoy Blue Moon Gardens in full bloom this spring.

Downtown Rockwall is a culinary destination with 16 restaurants in the walkable district, many offering locallysourced provisions. Plan a visit to the Rockwall Farmers’ Market Saturday mornings May through October.

Spring Farm to Feast is May 17 from 6-8 p.m.

Blue Moon Gardens

Explore Taste. Experience Downtown Rockwall

13062 FM 279 Edom, TX (903) 852-3897 www.bluemoongardens.com

Rockwall, Texas (972) 771-7700 www.rockwall.com/mainstreet

Open Monday-Saturday

Open April-October

Roast Social Kitchen offers locally-sourced sharable starters, fresh soups and salads, signature brick oven pizzas, seasonally inspired entrees, and a full craft bar.

“Thoughtfully prepared, joyfully shared” is their motto.

They are open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. with extended hours to midnight on Fridays.

This award-winning market focuses on all things local.

Every product is locally grown, baked, crafted, or produced within a 50-mile radius. They’re open from 8 a.m. to Noon every Saturday April through October. During the off season, they offer local products online.

Roast Social Kitchen

Winnsboro Farmers’ Market

1125 East 5th Street Tyler, TX 75701 (903) 202-0295 www.roastsocialkitchen.com 12 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

Downtown - Market Street Winnsboro, TX 75494 (903) 629-7079 www.winnsborofarmersmarket.com

FARM TO TABLE Saturday, May 9

Open Monday-Saturday

Edom kicks off the summer season with a beautiful long table dinner under the stars of East Texas. The evening begins with a stroll through artist studios while sampling appetizers and wine then ends with a multicourse dinner and wine pairing.

The quality of the products made at this family farm earned them a place on the shelves of Central Markets. They have a small Farm Store open MondayFriday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. to Noon. They produce fresh and nutritious dairy products and grassfed meats.

Edom Art Stroll & Long Table Dinner

Full Quiver Farm

Downtown Edom Edom, Texas www.visitedom.com

6238 FM 3396 Kemp, Texas (903) 498-3884 www.fullquiverfarmstexas.com

Open Monday-Saturday

Open Wednesday-Saturday

With an emphasis on farm to table for quality and a chef-crafted menu, The Grove is on a sprawling historic farm in Tyler. They aim to create a connection with the local community with their dishes and use every square foot of the property to make customers feel comfortable and entertained.

Valle della Pace (Valley of the Peace in Italian) is a family-owned vineyard and winery that started in 2011. They grow five different grape varietals. Their Tasting Room is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday, except holidays.

The Grove Kitchen & Gardens

Valle della Pace Vineyards & Winery

3500 Old Jacksonville Road Tyler, TX 75701 (903) 939-0209 www.thegrovetyler.com

17840 State Hwy 110 N Garden Valley, TX (903) 730-6721 www.valledellapace.com

MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 13

ARTS FEST

TJC’s Annual Celebration of the Arts A month-long event offering performances, exhibits, guest speakers and more at various times and locations across the TJC campus and at the Tyler Museum of Art

April 1-30, 2020 Media Underwriter

TJC.edu/artsfestival

Terrell Jubilee April 16-19, 2020 Ben Gill Park

THURSDAY

Family Fun Night Carnival Rides $30 per person unlimited rides

5K Run • Quilt Show • Carnival • Car Show State Champion BBQ Cook-Off • Arts & Crafts Ham Bone Express Pig Races • Live Entertainment Health Fair & Business Expo • Perot Museum TECH Truck • Food Vendors • and MORE!

Terrell Chamber of Commerce CVB 14 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM •MARCH/APRIL 2020

www.terrelljubilee.com

972.563.5703

county line

MAGAZINE

SIDETRACK IN MINEOLA! Historic & Natural Mineola Texas

ENJOY AN ADVENTURE

Mineola Nature Preserve 7:30 a.m. until sunset

HIKING AND BIKING TRAILS P H O T O G R A P H E R S PA R A D I S E

blogs www.CountyLineMagazine.com

W I L D L I F E V I E W I N G S TA T I O N S EQUESTRIAN TRAILS RV H O O K - U P S / E Q U E S T R I A N P E N S PA V I L I O N & A M P H I T H E A T E R R E N TA L DISC GOLF COURSE W I L D S C A P E GA R D E N B I R DW A T C H I N G FISHING PONDS

1.800.646.3652 or 903.569.6183 www.mineolanaturepreserve.com MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 15

Fairy Gardens Lure Visitors To Dogwood Park

By Lisa Tang In late March and early April, the flowering pink and white dogwood trees in East Texas rank among the state’s most beautiful attractions, and now they’re also home to the forest’s tiniest creatures, the fairies.

The Fairy Gardens, Palestine’s newest addition to the Texas Dogwood Trails Festival, have magically attracted hundreds of visitors to Davey Dogwood Park, beckoning them to park their vehicles and stroll through the forest to view the tiny homes nestled among the flowering dogwoods.

Volunteers built the tiny gardens from natural, biodegradable materials, such as popsicle sticks, branches, dried flowers, pine cones, rocks and pebbles. During the project’s first year, almost 40 miniature cottages, gardens, tree houses, and other structures appeared along the Fairy Garden trails. The peak time to visit the park is the last two weeks in

March and the first week in April, when the dogwood trees are in full bloom.

Tourism Director Mary Raum started the project in 2019 to encourage people to get out of their cars and explore the park. The roads wind through the park for more than five miles, but many of the most beautiful trees cannot be seen from the road. The project won first place at the Texas Association of Convention and Visitors Bureau’s Idea Fair for Tourism Promotion last summer.

Some gardens were built by local individuals or families and others by organizations. A contest with cash prizes boosted the project’s competition and creativity.

Contest winners included students from Elkhart High School, who built a garden they called Elkadia. They painted a windmill in their school colors of red, white and blue. Other designers used more natural hues for their palette, fashioning tiny doors on tree trunks to signify entrances to fairy homes. Many of

16 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

ABOVE: A detail of a fairy swing set from “Nature’s Fairy Garden” by Bridgett Thompson and her children. OPPOSITE: “Dogwood Fairy B&B”

by Sonia Martinez won first place in last year’s Fairy Garden Contest at Davey Dogwood Park.

Courtesy photos

the designs feature delicate details that only fairies can fashion.

New gardens with a variety of themes appear again in 2020, but some of the tiny homes are placed along a flat trail to allow visitors with mobility issues to view the gardens.

With a few gardens hidden behind stumps or logs in the forest, visitors of all ages have opportunities for magical encounters with woodland dwellers.

Davey Dogwood Park is open during daylight hours every day of the festival, March 20 to April 5. For information about the Texas Dogwood Trails Festival and events, call the Palestine Visitor Center at (903) 723-3014 or visit www. visitpalestine.com.

MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 17

18 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

We Sell East Texas Nationwide Clients from Sea to Shining Sea!

Full Service Realty • Farm and Ranch • Unimproved Land • Commercial Property Management • Estate Properties • Consulting Services • Market Value Reports

18 Local Sales Associates

• Veteran Programs

Give Us a Call!

TankersleyRealEstate.com (903) 963-5565

249 S. Oak St. Van, TX

• First Time Homeowners

210 N. Main St. Grand Saline, TX

Spring Visi s i t Th

Victoria Tankersley (903) 520-4943

BLUE MOON gardens

Zeke & Marty Jewelry Studio zekeandmarty.com 8271 fm 279 | (903) 852.3311

BASIL FESTIVAL

SATURDAY, APRIL 25

Come for the Day or Stay the Weekend

Blue Moon Gardens plant market, gift shop & fiber art studio bluemoongardens.com 13062 fm 279 | (903) 852.3897

art galleries & shops restaurants & music gardens, wineries & cabins

Glenda Mae’s Daylily Farm glendamaesdaylilyfarm.com 4741 fm 2339 | (903) 235.2529

the art of food & wine

art stroll & long table dinner | saturday, may 9 to purchase tickets, go to

visitedom.com

edom, tx | corner of fm 279 & fm 314

Potters Brown Gallery pottersbrown.com 8287 fm 279 | (903) 852.6473

Mariposa Cabin vrbo.com/354940 fm 279 | (903) 571-2423

MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 19

THIS TIME OF YEAR APRIL 1, 1909

Samuel Countee’s Paintings Continue To Inspire

(Above) Countee painted this mural during his time at Fort Leonard Wood in Word War II. (Right) “Woman by the Fountain,” early 1930s: (Left) “Portrait of Beauty,” 1949, and “My Guitar,” 1936.

Samuel Albert Countee was born in Marshall, Texas, on April 1, 1909, and eventually emerged as one of the nation’s most inspiring young artists of the 1930s.

While in Booker T. Washington Hi School in Houston, he displayed the heartfelt passion for African-American self-reliance, sensuality, and spirituality in his art.

He returned to Marshall to attend Bishop College and major in art. He paid his way through school as the portrait artist of faculty and administrators. In 1933 Bishop named him Artist in Residence. Between 1933 and 1935 he presented his work at numerous exhibits around the country, including one piece titled “Little Brown Boy,” a painting critics called a monumental achievement.

In 1934 he earned a scholarship to study at the Boston Museum of Arts.

By the late 1930s, his paintings and sculptures portraying African-American life could be seen at Howard

University, Atlanta University, Smith College, Institute of Modern Art in Boston, and in the Texas Centennial in Dallas in 1936.

Countee’s work was among several murals, paintings, photographs, books, essays, reports, and studies on display at the “Hall of Negro Life.” A historic tribute to African-American culture and life in Texas as well as in the United States, the exhibit marked an important first for African Americans worldwide. It featured the works of artists, scholars, poets, physicians, military heroes, scientists, reformers, former slaves, as well as other dignitaries of influence. Countee’s exhibit particularly dramatized African-American cultural history.

Countee became a staff sergeant in World War II. In 1945, he painted a mural for Fort Leonard Wood’s WWII era African-American Officers Club to lift spirits of the soldiers. Just last year, the building was memorialized in his honor. Officially named SSG Samuel A. Countee Hall, it is more often re-

20 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

ferred to as simply Countee Hall.

While stationed at Fort Leonard Wood he also painted theater sets for USO performances- including the production of Goldbrickers of 1944.

After moving to New York City after the war, he was a popular and wellknown artist. He painted portraits of famous African American artists and entertainers including Lucille Armstrong, Harry Belafonte, and Marian Anderson. He also taught art lessons to heroin addicts confined in prison.

Countee never forgot where he came from and routinely recognized his art instructors at Booker T. Washington and Bishop. Through his visual art he asked the world to reconsider existing generalizations about African Americans.

He died September 11, 1959, and is buried in Long Island National Cemetery in New York. His paintings now sell in the range of $20,000 to $85,000 and more. His work at Fort Leonard Wood is valued at more than $370,000.

MARCH 14

Find Luck of the Irish in March at Tupps Brewery in McKinney

PAPER

Indulge YOU DESERVE IT

SUBSCRIBE! The third annual McKinney St. Patrick’s Day Festival takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 14 at Tupps Brewery, 721 Anderson Street. It features a Shamrock Run 5K, two music stages featuring Irish Rock Bands, Irish and other cuisine, costume contests, lots of green beer, lawn games and vendors. For more information visit www.mckinneystpatricksday.com. Photo by Beth Shumate

Still just $15 per year!

Spring Flower Trails

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

county line

need another item here

Upper East Side of Texas Regional Magazine

fl&g 903.963.1101 countylinemagazine.com Spring Flower Trails in the Upper East Side of Texas are spectacular. Check out numerous suggestions in www.countylinemagazine.com. Photo by Wendy Floyd MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 21



LIFESTYLE & ENTERTAINMENT

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

Look For Treasures in Quinlan

EVENTS Dates and times are subject to change. Always call ahead before planning a visit.

Through March

Mrs. Lee’s Daffodil Garden. Gladewater, 21600 CR 3103, (903) 845-5780, www.daffodilgarden.com

March 6-8

North Texas Irish Festival. Dallas, Fair Park, (214) 821-4173, www.NTIF.org

March 7

Girls Getaway Day-Wine Tour. Tyler, Sip & Shop Texas, (903) 393-9737, www.wetravel.com Cleveland Amory Black Beauty Ranch Tours. Murchsion, Cleveland Armory Black Beauty Ranch, (903) 469-3811, www.fundforanimals.org/blackbeauty/visit-the-ranch Mardi Gras Texarkana 2020. Texarkana, Front Street, www.mardigrastexarkana.com Krewe of Barkus. Historic Downtown McKinney, (972) 547-2660, www.mckinneytexas.org Sting Ray Anthony’s Jukebox Rocks. Gilmer Civic Center, (903) 797-8888, www.stingraysjukeboxrock.com

March 14 Photos by P.A. Geddie

Barstool Races. Ben Wheeler, The Forge Bar & Grill, (903) 833-5970, www.theforgebenwheeler.com Craft Beer & Wine Tasting & Bar Stool Racing Tour. Tyler, Sip & Shop Texas, (903) 393-9737, www.wetravel.com The 32nd Annual Beauty and the Beast Bicycle Tour. Tyler, ETX Brewing, (903) 3724511, www.bikereg.com/45243 McKinney St. Patrick’s Day Festival.

McKinney, Tupps Brewery, (940) 390-4232, www.mckinneystpatricksday.com

Located near the north shores of Lake Tawakoni in Hunt County, the little downtown of Quinlan, Texas, has a row of antique shops worthy of an afternoon drive.

Anchored on one end is Ain’t Just Pie Too, a local favorite serving breakfast and lunch and desserts. On the other end of this Main Street block is Oohs and Aahs Home Decor with several other shops in between.

Oohs and Aahs offers mostly repurposed, vintage home decor including furniture and accents.

Another shop, Gypsy-Rogue, offers distressed furniture and lots of home accessories and interesting finds, while Vintage Retro Modern has dishes, old record players, shoes, and many treasures that bring back memories for shoppers.

March 19-20

Several of these shopkeepers have booths each month at First Monday Trade Days in Canton and in other towns. Call Oohs and Aahs at (903) 456-6874 or Gypsy Rogue at (903) 802-4268 before going to verify the shops are open.

March 20 – April 11

22 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

March Spring Break Special. Jefferson, Diamond Don’s Park, (903) 665-3733, diamonddonempire.com

March 20 – April 5

Dogwood Trails Celebration. Downtown and Old Town Palestine, (903) 729-6066, www.visitpalestine.com/dogwood Azalea & Spring Flower Trail. Tyler, Along North Broadway, (800) 235-5712, visittyler. com/azaleatrail

March 21-22

Tour of Corsicana Bike Race & Gravel Grinder. Corsicana, (210) 440-3335, www. tourofcorsicana.com

March 21 – April 4

Annual Dogwood Trails Celebration.

Downtown Palestine, (903) 729-6066, texasdogwoodtrails.com

March 21

Saint Patrick’s Day. Paris. Downtown Paris Square, (903) 784-2501, www.paristexas.com

April 17-18

35th Annual East Texas Gusher Days.

Gladewater, various locations, (903) 8455501, www.gusher-days.com

April 17-19

Arts in Bloom. McKinney, (972) 547-2660, www.mckinneytexas.org/687/Arts-in-Bloom

McKinney St. Patrick’s Day Festival & Shamrock Run. McKinney, TUPPS Brewery, (972) 547.7500, www.mckinneytexas.org

Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival. Ennis, Various locations, (972) 878-4748, www.bluebonnettrail.org

March 28

April 18

Cleveland Amory Black Beauty Ranch Tours. Murchsion, Cleveland Armory Black Beauty Ranch, (903) 469-3811, www.fundforanimals.org/blackbeauty/visit-the-ranch Live Forge Demo/Workshop. Ben Wheeler, The Blade Bar,(903) 904-7833, www.

TheBladeBarTx.com

April 1-5

Kirbyville Magnolia Festival. Kirbyville, Magnolia Park, (409) 423-6500, www.evensi. us/amp/kirbyville-magnolia-festival-park

April 2-5

Diamond Don’s 18th Annual AHRMA International Vintage Motocross. Jefferson, Diamond Don’s Park, (903) 665-3733, diamonddonempire.com

April 4

Paris Texas Wine Festival. Downtown Paris, www.downtownparis.org

April 4-5

Mineola Amtrak Wine Fest. Mineola, Amtrak Station, (903) 569-6183, www.mineola.com

April 4 – May 25, Saturday/Sunday

Scarborough Renaissance Festival.

Waxahachie, 2511 FM 66, (972) 938-3247, www.srfestival.com

April 11

6th Annual Wings Over Pegasus.

Murchison, 7111 FM 2339, (903) 469-3578, www.pegasusrescue.org Cleveland Amory Black Beauty Ranch Tours. Murchsion, Cleveland Armory Black Beauty Ranch, (903) 469-3811, www.fundforanimals.org/blackbeauty/visit-the-ranch Kemp Wildflower Festival. Kemp City Park, (903) 498-3191, www.cityofkemp.org Van Go Art Fair. Van City Park, (903) 3129556, www.VanGoArtFair.com Grand Saline Main Street Festival. (903) 962-5631, grandsalinemainstreet.com

April 15 – May 30

Wildflower Tour. Henderson, various locations, (866) 650-5529, www.visithendersontx. com

April 16-19

Terrell Jubilee. Terrell, Ben Gill Park, (972) 563.5703, www.terrelltexas.com

The Diva Du. Tyler, Kiepersol Winery and Distillery, (903) 571-5579, www.itri365.com/ diva-du

April 18-26

Hunt County Fair. Greenville, Hunt County Fair Association, (903) 454-1503, www.huntcountyfair.net

April 23-25

Crossroads of Texas Film & Music Festival.

Waxahachie, Getzendaner Park, (469) 3094045, waxahacniecvb.com/events

April 24-25

Annual Antique Tractor and Engine Club Show. Henderson, Rusk Co. Expo Center, (903) 657-2161, www.visithendersontx.com

April 24-26

1836 Chuckwagon Race. Palestine, Diamond B Ranch, (903) 721-9111, www.1836chuckwagonrace.com

April 25

March 4 – June 27

Kilgore College Rangerettes–Celebrating 80 Years. Longview Museum of Fine Arts, (903) 753-8103, www.lmfa.org

April 4 -7

The Colors of Life. Athens, Gallery 211, (903) 292-1746, www.artgallery211.net

March 7-8

60th Student Invitational. Longview Museum of Fine Arts, (903_ 753-8103, www. lmfa.org

April 10-11

Arts in Bloom. Historic Downtown McKinney, (972) 547-2660, www.mckinneytexas.org

April 18 – June 6

Look at Me - a Portrait Exhibit. Winnsboro Center for the Arts, (903) 342-0686, winnsborocenterforthearts.com

April 25

Blue Moon Gardens Basil Festival. Edom, Blue Moon Gardens, (903) 852-3897, www. bluemoongardens.com

STAGE Through March 1

Our Town. Henderson Civic Theatre, (903) 657-2968, hendersoncivictheatre.org

March 3-5

Cinderella Ballet. Longview, Belcher Center, (903) 233-3080, www.belchercenter.com

Live Forge Demo/Workshop. Ben Wheeler,The Blade Bar,1593 TX-279,903-9047833, www.TheBladeBarTx.com

March 7

Derrick Days. Corsicana Visitors Center, (903) 654-4850, www.derrickdays.com

March 26

Cleveland Amory Black Beauty Ranch Tours. Murchsion, Cleveland Armory Black Beauty Ranch, (903) 469-3811, www.fundforanimals.org/blackbeauty/visit-the-ranch

April 30 – May 3

Rains County Founder’s Day Festival.

Emory, Sandy Creek Park, (903) 473-2465, www.foundersdayfestival.org

ARTS

Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. Tyler.

Cowan Center, (903) 566-7141, www.cowancenter.org

March 27-29, April 3-5

9 To 5 The Musical. Palestine, Historic Texas Theatre, (903) 723-9595, www.thetexastheater.com

April 2

Menopause The Musical. UT Tyler Cowan Center, (903) 566-7424, www.cowancenter.org

April 10-26

Through March 15

That Day: Pictures In The American West.

Tyler Museum of Art, (903) 595-1001, tylermuseum.org/laurawilson

Through April 4

Linda Lucas Hardy Solo Exhibit. Winnsboro Center for the Arts, (903) 342-0686, www. winnsborocenterforthearts.com

March 1 - May 31

Jeanne Robertson. Crockett Civic Center, (936) 544-4276, www.pwfaa.org

Lone Star Impressions II. Tyler Museum of Art (903) 595-1001, tylermuseum.org

Steel Magnolias. Sherman, SCP Main Stage, (903 )893-8525, www.scptheater.com

April 16

The Good Humor Hour. Corsicana,The Palace Theatre,112 W 6th Ave,(903) 874-7792, www.corsicanapalace.showare.com,,

April 17-19, 24-26

My Old Lady. Mineola, Lake Country Playhouse, (903) 569-2300, www.lakecountryplayhouse.com

SEE MORE EVENTS ON

COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.com MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 23

Birthplace/Legacy Trip Honors Eisenhower The community of Denison was very proud of General “Ike” Eisenhower. People there, including schoolage children donating their money, worked together to acquire his birthplace home in 1946. He was hailed as a hometown hero when he came back to visit that same year for a dedication of the birthplace. He was served breakfast in that house, and he was honored with a parade and dedication ceremony.

Official president portrait: Dwight D. Eisenhower

In his speech at this dedication, he expressed how deeply appreciative he was for all that the city had done for him by acquiring and fixing up the house and by honoring him with the special celebration. He also pointed out that all members of the military deserved such a welcome home for their service and sacrifice.

Eisenhower returned to Denison again on a presidential campaign trip in 1952 before beginning his presidency which ran from 1953 through 1961.

The Eisenhower birthplace became a state park in 1958 while he was president.

He made his final visit in 1965 to dedicate the Eisenhower Auditorium at Denison High School (now Scott Middle School).

By Judy Peacock Organizers in Denison, Texas, which is where Dwight D. Eisenhower was born; Abilene, Kansas, where he grew up, and Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, where he and his wife Mamie lived, are all three working together on an Eisenhower Legacy Trip May 4 through 9. This trip culminates at the unveiling of a new memorial in Washington, D.C., in honor of the United States’ 34th President.

These three communities unite for a special week of celebrating their common former resident. Participants will explore “Ike-sites” throughout Washington, D.C. and Gettysburg.

Eisenhower was born October 14, 1890 in the bedroom of a two-story house in Denison. His father, David Eisenhower, brought his family to Denison from Kansas in 1889 to pursue a new life in Texas working on the railroad. They did not live in Texas long, moving back to Kansas in 1892.

Before he was president, Eisenhower’s successful military career through three decades, and his actions and achievements through service to his country, made him extremely popular and well-known. At the end of 1945, he returned to Washington D.C. as a five-star general and became the chief of staff of the Army.

24 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

Denison Main Street has erected a 16-foot-tall bust of the former president and five-star general on a fivefoot-tall stone pedestal. This statue is the centerpiece for the Eisenhower Veterans Monument in Denison, and it is flanked by five 35-foot-tall flagpoles. Each flagpole represents one of the five branches of military service. Personalized engraved bricks pave the surrounding area, featuring the names of veterans and their service to the country.

Denison Main Street Director, Donna Dow, says it is important to honor the town’s most famous son, and the city is working on doing so at several places in town, including a recently painted mural on the corner of Burnett and Chestnut. The mural, a por-

Located in the heart of Denison, Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site showcases the home where the 34th U.S. President Dwight David “Ike” Eisenhower was born in 1890. Antique furnishings fill the modest frame house, illustrating the working class life of the Eisenhowers. The visitors center celebrates Ike with memorabilia and exhibits featuring his many accomplishments as president and war hero. Courtesy photo

trait of Eisenhower along with his quote, “What counts is not necessarily the size of the dog in the fight – it’s the size of the fight in the dog,” was painted by another Denison native, Steven Bohall.

Denison City Councilman, Brian Hander, was instrumental in getting the mural of Eisenhower done. He says, “It’s good for us to honor Eisenhower. He was a great president, he was born here, he came back to Denison several times. It’s cool to see him in another place other than the birthplace, bringing him into downtown.”

Dow says the city is also working on an Eisenhower Trail, a way to show visitors to the area more about him, and to make their visits even more enjoyable. It will show the parade route that he rode in and will highlight locations he visited.

Regarding the upcoming legacy trip, Dow says, “Each of the [three] cities will be sending a delegation in remembrance of the way Denison sent a delegation to the president’s inauguration when he went to Washington, D.C. 75 years ago.”

Dow also said they are working with Mary Jean Eisenhower, the former president’s granddaughter. She now lives in Abilene, Kansas, and has visited Denison a couple of times fairly recently.

Dow says, “She is very supportive of our community. We asked her to take part in this. She was excited to guide us through the President’s farm, the place where she has many great memories from a child.”

A tour of the Gettysburg home and farm is a day trip scheduled by motor-

coach during the legacy trip activities.

The legacy trip to Washington and the Eisenhower Trail are only a couple of ways that Denison leadership, citizens, and students are lovingly working to honor the memory of a man they are proud to call their own.

To see the schedule and information for the Eisenhower Legacy Trip, visit www.eisenhowerlegacytrip.com.

The Eisenhower Birthplace State Historical Park is at 609 S. Lamar Avenue. It is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1-5 p.m. on Sunday. For guided tours and more information, go to visiteisenhowerbirthplace.com or call (903) 465-8908. The Eisenhower Veterans Monument is located at U.S. Hwy. 75, Exit 67.

MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 25

Enjoy a Great Greenville Getaway Dining, shopping, and entertainment make Greenville a fun destination

By P.A. Geddie Exploring Greenville, Texas, these days, visitors find plenty to enjoy for several days.

First, while Landon Winery no longer serves meals, it does serve excellent wines and in an inviting and beautifully-restored historic building. They do have chocolates and cheese boards and they team up with Mac’s American Grille across the street for full dining deliveries. But for some, just sipping wine and visiting with a friend in this gem of a landmark is a wonderful way to enjoy a couple of hours in downtown Greenville. They also often have live music. 2508 Lee Street, (903) 454-7878, www.landonwinery.com Mac’s American Grille is another experience all its own. The kitchen and grill with flames blazing are visible from the dining room. The menu features burgers, sandwiches, soups, salads, woodgrilled steaks, and desserts. There’s a full bar and an artsy, contemporary vibe throughout the building. It’s a good idea to call for reservations on weekends. 2501 Johnson Street, (903) 494-5007

While looking at food options, keep the County Line award-winning Ain’t Just Pie in mind for soups, quiches, salads, lunch specials, desserts and pies of course. This is a good choice for breakfast too — they open at 8 a.m. and close at 3 p.m. 2205 Lee Street, (903) 455-4314, www.justpie.net New downtown is Empty Glass Steakhouse and Saloon. 2808 Lee Street, (903) 494-5038 A great dining place for lunch is Pizzo’s Sicilian Cafe inside Uptown Forum, 2610 Lee Street, (202) 270-4276, www. uptownforum.net. They serve delicious paninis, calzones, soups, salads, and pastas. This is a favorite local downtown hangout where Chef Ang (Angela Marie Melia) takes special care with every customer. (903) 455-2233 While at Uptown Forum, check out the shopping in this three-story historic building: CC & Company (women’s clothing and accessories), (903) 4541522, www.calicocatgreenville.com; Lenore Cole (art, jewelry, soaps, candles), (903) 453-8003, www.lenorecolecandles. com; The Wind, The Willow Bookstore,

26 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

(903) 455-2665, and At The Top Art Gallery.

More downtown shopping should include Jesse’s Girl Boutique & Salon, 2613 Lee Street, (903) 494-5069, www. jessesgirlboutique.com; Nine Zero Three Boutique, 2218 Lee Street; Greenville Floral & Gifts, and The Muddle, a great little antique shop.

For something really different check out Forbidden Gallery with unusual collectibles and a Bad Movie Rental Club. 2717 Lee Street,(903) 458-5572 Also while in Greenville venture out from downtown a bit to visit Vintage and Lace, 7716 Wesley, (903) 413-1770.

They are open until 6 p.m. and feature a variety of vendors with great home furnishings and clothing options.

A great little antique store is Connors Corner, 6501 Wesley, (903) 268-2749, www.connerscornercollectibles.com.

Take an afternoon to go visit the Audie Murphy American Cotton Museum.

Much of the museum is dedicated to local World War II hero and movie star Audie Murphy. There’s also a turn-

of-the-century Main Street area, and a popular section for visitors is the oddball stuff like the “hair wreath,” a famous wooden leg, a baseball autographed by June Allyson, and a vintage hair curling machine. 600 Interstate 30 East, (903) 450-4502, www.cottonmuseum.com Besides live music at some of the restaurants and Landon Winery, Greenville has two dynamic downtown venues with great shows.

The Greenville Municipal Auditorium has national touring acts most weekends like The Hitmen, Johnny Rodriguez and Johnny Bush, Shades of Buble, The Marksmen, and John Conlee, as well as the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and other entertainment. 2821 Washington Street, (903) 457-3126, www. showtimeatthegma.com The Texan Theater also has shows most weeks in an intimate room complete with four-course dinners. Some of its upcoming shows includes Ian Moore; the Freedom Folk Music Festival with Susan Gibson, Jana Pochop, AJ Johnston, Hannah Kirby, Johnny C. Lately, and Tony Ramey; Music of Cream; Femmes of Rock; and Reverend Horton Heat. The Texan is also home to the local’s favorite Hump Day Happy Hour taking place every Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. It features local artists and musicians. 2712 Lee Street, (903) 259-6360, www.texantheatergreenville.com Guests looking for ideas for Sunday before driving home might try the Ashen Rose Pub for brunch. The Texan Theater usually shows a free movie on Sunday afternoons on their big screen and visitors can order food from the Texan Coffee Shop and delivered to their table. Many weekends, they have special events happening so check the calendar and get more information on www. travelgreenvilletx.com.

(Left) Mac’s American Grille is a great dining experience in downtown Greenville. (Right, top to bottom) Vintage and Lace has beautiful home furnishings as well as clothing. The crab cakes at Mac’s are delicious and Pizzo’s has really tasty paninis. Lenore Cole and CC & Company in Uptown Forum features women’s clothing and accessories, jewelry, soaps, candles, and more. Uptown Forum is an inviting historic building where customers enjoy shopping, dining, art, and more.

Photos by P.A. Geddie MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 27

WINNSBORO CULTURAL ARTS DISTRICT

ANNIE MAE’S COFFEE SHOP & CAFE 108 W. Elm St. - (903) 347-6510

LIEFIE LI VINE 302 N. Main St. - (903) 347-1111

COPPER LEAF DAY SPA 209 N. Main St. - (903) 342-7772

ROOSTER CAFE 111 E. Broadway St. - (903) 347-6541

DIRECTIONAL WELLNESS 213 N. Main St. - (903) 342-7772

LA CONCHITA 205 N. Walnut St. - (903) 347-1213

WINNSBORO CENT

Sofia Talvik March 14

Mary Gauthier w/ Jaimee Harris March 28

100 East Cedar Street 903-588-0465 CYPRESS CREEK SOUTHERN ALES 200 E. Carnegie St. - (208) 841-4159

THE BOWERY Dining, Music, Arts, & Entertainment

BARREL HOUSE BAR & GRILL

STAR DRAGONFLY HERBS 300 N. Main St., Suite C - (903) 588-4313

204 Market St. - (903) 347-1282

200 MARKET STREET • 903-342-0686 28 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

903-342-3666

DINE. SHOP. STAY. ARTS. ENTERTAINMENT.

ORIGINAL WORKS BY LOCAL ARTISTS

TER FOR THE ARTS

John McEuen & the String Wizards April 17

ASHLEY’S FLOWERS & SODA SHOP 306 E. Coke Rd. - (903) 342-0607

Monica Rizzio April 18

Rich in history. Steeped in country. First in class.

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

BEAUWEEVILS 205 N. Main - (903) 342-6800

CLARA IDA FRANCES 219 N. Main St. - (903) 342-6137

ANI OAKLI CLOTHING CO 214 N. Main St. - (903) 342-2077

5C HOME STORE 106 E. Elm St. - 5ccustomcreation.com

THEE HUBBELL HOUSE 307 W. Elm St. - (800) 227-0639

FARMERS MARKET winnsboro.locallygrown.net - (903) 440-5392

WCA ANNEX CLASSES 212 Market St. - (903) 342-0686

FINDERS KEEPERS ANTIQUES 304 N. Main St. - (903) 347-1271

CULTURE CLUB, GALLERY OF ARTISTS 107 E. Elm St.

www.WINNSBOROCENTERFORTHE ARTS.COM MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 29

ARTS & CULTURE

Dave Hendley Makes Authentic Farmhouse Pottery

By Lisa Tang David Henley strives for authenticity, a principle that doesn’t come easily nowadays. Yet, all the pieces he creates at Old Farmhouse Pottery in Maydelle, Texas, is authentic. Using traditional methods and local materials, such as clay from pits near Athens and a hand-built wood firing kiln, he fashions pottery that displays the character of the natural ingredients and process.

The little farmhouse in Maydelle lies four miles east of the Neches River, which forms the line between Cherokee and Anderson counties. Visitors can exit Highway 84 onto County Road 1804 then follow signs to the farmhouse, which serves as a pottery shop and studio.

The little shop displays a variety of decorative vases, bowls, and lamps, as well as mugs, plates, and servingware suitable for the modern table. Couples can register their selections on oldfarmhousepottery.com, and Hendley’s chalices are purchased by churches from around the world.

“Handmade pottery is popular because it’s nostalgic to old times and it’s honest; it’s made by a real person with their own hands,” Hendley says.

Visitors can watch the beginning phase of the process, which usually takes a month from the moment the potter forms new objects on the wheel to the moment they’re added to shelves in the shop.

Before he begins, however, Hendley purchases 2,500 pounds of lead-free clay from pits near Athens, grinds it with feldspar and other materials to strengthen it, then chops, mixes, and compresses it using a hand-operated machine that compresses it into 8 x 8 x 15-inch tubes, then packages and stores them under his work table.

Pulling a chunk from one of the long tubes, Hendley pushes it down on the pottery wheel and sprinkles it with water. The clay forms a glistening mound.

The potter’s hands mold a deep well in the clay as it spins, forming it as it grows taller. Hendley adds more water and places his hands inside the tube to make a bulge and gently closes his fingers to form the neck of a jar.

ABOVE: Artist Dave Hendley at work in his pottery shop, Old Farmhouse Pottery, in Maydelle, Texas; OPPOSITE Top to Bottom: Some of Hendley’s completed work, a close up of a pot in the making, and the outside view of the country store.

The timeline of hand-making traditional pottery has just begun. After adding decorative touches, Hendley gingerly places each piece on a shelf that rests on a stack of bricks inside the kiln.

the bottom of each piece with fine sandpaper before adding it to his shop.

Wood firing is a lengthy process. First, Hendley salvages used wood pallets from local businesses. Once lit, fires on each side of the kiln’s base are fed for 10 hours, while the furnace reaches a temperature of 2,300 degrees. The fire is so intense that it rises above the 13foot chimney.

Not many potters still use a wood-burning kiln because it requires so much work. “It’s hard to take a 5-minute lunch break while I’m feeding the kiln,” Hendley says.

Two and a half days later, the fire dies and the kiln cools. Hendley smooths

30 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

Photos by Lisa Tang.

At 2,400 degrees, even the ashes melt to form a layer of specks that hardens as the glaze cools. “The ashes make each piece look more individual and unique; they add extra effect,” Hendley says, picking up a lightly-speckled serving platter.

Some pieces feature intricately-carved designs. Others, a metallic shimmer or bumpy texture. All are carefully, even lovingly, made.

For information about Old Farmhouse Pottery, call 903-795-3779 or visit farmpots.com. The shop is usually open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays; however, if planning a visit, Hendley advises calling in advance to ensure the shop is open.

PAPER

Indulge YOU DESERVE IT

SUBSCRIBE!

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 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 31

Van Go Art Fair Features Talented Artists Enjoy a day filled with fine art,music, kids’ projects, and food court The second annual Van Go Art Fair takes place in Van from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 11 at Van City Park. Van is located off Interstate 20 between Dallas and Shreveport.

The juried art show features handcrafted jewelry, paintings, metal art, wood work, fiber art, glass, pottery, ceramics, and mixed media. Artists are coming from around the state to join the show including from the Houston, Austin, and Dallas/Fort Worth areas as well as the rural towns of Mabank, Van, Alba, Tyler, Edom, Yantis, Winnsboro, Canton, Flint, Grand Saline, Palestine, Jefferson, Lindale, Ben Wheeler, and Quitman.

A variety of talented musicians perform authentic Texas Jazz, Country, and Americana music throughout the day in the pavilion with gourmet coffee, wine, and chocolates. Ginny Mac adds to the “sidewalk cafe in Paris” ambience with her dynamic group that brings a fresh and exciting twist to vocal and instrumental music stylings.

The food truck court features gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, authentic Mexican food with an island twist, grilled meats, popsicles, and more.

The Van Go Costume Contest offers a $200 cash prize to the best “Dress Like a Famous Painting” competition. Another activity during the day includes a large Van Gogh painting backdrop for selfies. This is also a pet-friendly event.

A Van Go Kids area has several projects for kids of all ages and the Van ISD STEAM Bus is on hand to give kids even more opportunities in their mobile maker space. A Young Artists Exhibition features local student artwork.

The event is co-produced by the City of Van and the Van Zandt Arts & Cultural District Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization that promotes the arts

for education and tourism for Van ISD and the district communities of Edom, Van, and Ben Wheeler. It is sponsored by Door Controls USA, County Line Magazine, Austin Bank, Stanger Surveying, The Forge Bar & Grill, and Edom Art Emporium.

Go to www.vangoartfair.com for lodging options and more information on the fair and surrounding area.

32 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

A sample of artwork from artists attending the 2020 Van Go Art Fair include: (above) Oil painting by Janak Narayan from McKinney; (opposite, top left, clockwise) Hand painted clothing by Valery Guignon from Winnsboro; Painting by Laurie Aurand from Fort Worth; Wooden bowls by Michael Tate of Quitman; Ceramics by Amy Seymour of Mabank; and jewelry by Breeana Padilla of Canton.

MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 33

Rangerettes Featured at Longview Art Museum Longview Museum of Fine Art is proud to showcase East Texas’ very own Kilgore College Rangerettes, America’s first precision dance drill team. The exhibition features the photography and storytelling of fine art and editorial photographer O. Rufus Lovett. It opens April 11 and runs through June 27.

Lovett’s “Kilgore Rangerettes” is an interpretative photo essay covering 30 years of his fascination with the glamour of the Rangerettes juxtaposed with the small-town football environment that includes more than 50 photographs.

Lovett began photographing the Rangerettes in the 1989-1990 school year during their 50th Anniversary. The photographs were presented in several statewide exhibitions and a piece of the work was first published in Texas Monthly magazine in 1990 and soon was published nationally in American Photo magazine that same year. Texas Monthly published 26 images of the work including the cover in the September, 2004 issue, “Small Town Stories.” The University of Texas Press published the book of Lovett’s photographs, Kilgore Rangerettes, in 2006, with the preface written by Magnum photographer Elliott Erwitt and an introduction by Katy Vine.

Lovett stated, “Since beginning my teaching career 43 years ago at Kilgore College, it had always been my plan to visually interpret the world famous Kilgore College Rangerettes. After these many years of photographing the Rettes I continue to be amazed by their discipline, precision and tradition.”

This exhibit is paired with Sweethearts of the Gridiron, a film documentary featuring the Rangerettes, and Rangerette memorabilia organized and curated from various collectors throughout East Texas. A special premiere of the film airs from 6-8 p.m. April 11 with filmmaker Chip Hale of Kilgore discussing the making of his film.

"Pauline," 1989, from the Kilgore Rangerette book by O. Rufus Lovett. Courtesy photo “Since my days as a Rangerette manager back in the mid-’90s I’ve always had a tremendous amount of respect for the Rangerette organization, but after making Sweethearts of the Gridiron my respect grew exponentially.

The amount of intestinal fortitude a young woman must have to become a Rangerette and then to maintain that status for two years is truly impressive.”

The museum believes the photographic exhibition of Gussie Nell Davis’ famous ‘Texas cowgirl,’ legendary drill team has broad appeal and will attract visitors due to the dance teams national and world-wide appeal. The

34 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

exhibition also coincides perfectly with the Rangerette’s 80th Anniversary celebration.

This exhibition is underwritten by a grant from the City of Longview & the Cultural Activities Advisory Commission and LMFA members and sponsors.

The museum is located at 215. E. Tyler Street. Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission is free for members and $5 for non-members.

For more information on membership, exhibits, and events, visit www. lmfa.org.



 STAGE Dogwood Jamboree Shares Country from the Heart

By Lisa Tang Country music fans who long for folksy music and knee-slapping comedy of Branson, Missouri, will enjoy Palestine’s Dogwood Jamboree, held four times a year since 2005.

The March 21 show, “Country from the Heart,” falls on the first weekend of the Texas Dogwood Trails Celebration, a festival that celebrates the beauty of thousands of flowering trees in Davey Dogwood Park.

Some audience members travel hundreds of miles — sometimes by the busload — to attend the family-friendly Jamboree, which features comedy and dozens of talented musicians from Texas and beyond.

Special performers at the March 21 show will be Shake, Rattle and Roll, a female quartet from East Texas who toured Europe in early 2020. They will perform popular hits from the ‘50s and ‘60s, producer Dan Manuel said.

The show’s regulars are Sissy Perry from Corsicana, Joe Hancock from Hallsville,

locals W.J. Copeland and Rodney Ray, and the Dogwood Jamboree Band.

Dan Manuel hosts the program, which alternates musical performances with kneeslapping comedy sketches reminiscent of “Hee-Haw.” One highlight of every Jamboree, already 16 years running, is the Youth Talent Search Contest. Two to three youth, ages 18 and younger, compete for a chance to earn the title at the year-end show.

The contest helps young performers like Kadie Lynn Roberson of Kemp and Kristyn Harris of McKinney achieve national stardom and recording contracts.

At 13, Roberson appeared on America’s Got Talent, which led to recording contracts with Sony Music in Nashville. She’s one of the most famous Jamboree alumni, having secured contracts for hits such as “Stronger” and “One Last Dance.”

Harris, 25, has gained national fame as a yodeler, performing for American Idol and other television shows, documentaries, and films. She was named 2017 Female Vocalist of the Year in the Pro Cowboy

Kristyn Harris was part of the youth talent at the Dogwood Jamboree and has gone on to see success on American Idol and other television shows, documentaries, and films. Courtesy photo

Country Artist Association and 2019 Entertainer of the Year by the Western Music Association.

Harris’ 2019 single, “What’s a Cowgirl Supposed to Do?” ranked as the number one most-played song by western music DJs in January. Harris also won International Western Music Association Entertainer of the Year four years in a row, 2016-2019.

Marie Clare of Sherman won the Jamboree’s 2019 Youth Talent Search contest.

The 11-year-old won the audience’s popular vote after she belted out “Don’t Worry about Me” by Marty Robbins.

Young performers audition for the talent search contest in person or online.

Qualifiers perform at one of the shows at Palestine High School’s auditorium, usually attended by 300-500 folks. Tickets are $12.50 in advance and $15 at the door.

For information, visit dogwoodjamboree. com or call 903-723-6291.

MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 35

LITERARY Poet Darrell Lindsey Releases New Book Darrell Lindsey of Nacogdoches often submits thought-provoking poems to County Line Magazine so it caught our attention recently when we saw he’d released a book. A Master of Stick Figures, from Velvet Dusk Publishing, is full of Lindsey’s haiku and tank poems.

Here are a few comments from fellow poets about the book: “Sometimes, you must read more than 10,000 short poems before you find one like the opening poem of Darrell Lindsey’s stunning collection,“ Eduard Tara says. “This haiku has a complex architecture of images and meanings.

“At first reading, the poet tells us about a sumi-e painter, maybe an apprentice. A remarkable scene takes place when the brush leaves its traces. The paper moves slightly under the weight of the brush and the ink changes the brightness of the reflected light. For a moment, the bird seems to flap its wings.

“Deepening our reading, we discover that the bird trying to fly over the mountains is nothing but the aspiration of this apprentice to detach himself from his teacher and find his own way.

“In a version of Genesis, both the author and his character (the painter or the poet himself) have the gift to repeat the act of creation in new ways.”

And from Carole MacRury: “A Master of Stick Figures contains haiku and tanka that reflect upon and question a life. With a studied balance of light and darkness, the poems speak to things unsaid. Like in a painting, the poet tries to ‘handcuff the light.’

“These are poems of the past, poems of place, poems that attempt to round out a life through introspection. The master presents his stick figures in a

way that readers will find memorable, even familiar, and most of all poignant and sincere.

“Lindsey’s use of figurative language is highly effective, opening up these poems to deeper insights with each reading.”

Lindsey has won several awards and nominations for his poetry and his work has appeared in more than 75 journals, magazines, and anthologies.

He has garnered numerous international honors for his haiku and tanka, and one of his poems is included in Haiku In English: The First Hundred Years (W. W. Norton & Company, 2013). More recently, he won First Prize in the Polish International Haiku Contest 2017, as well as Second Place, Jane Reichhold International Prize, 2019. Darrell’s Poets & Writers Directory listing can be found at www. pw.org/content/darrell_lindsey.

A Master of Stick Figures is available on Amazon. Here are three of his pieces from the book.

36 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

sumi-e mountains a blackbird tries to fly from the drying ink

if there’s an art to leaving things unsaid, then I walked out of your house tonight a master of stick figures

were you to know all those who have loved you secretly, would you feel as if you had missed your own life ?

Author Shares Nacogdoches’ Legendary History Legend at Lanana Creek by Keith R. Rees is a recently released sequel to the 2007 novella, Legend Upon the Cane.

The novel is the tale of the courageous chief of the Nacogdoches Indians. It’s a story about the events involving his tribe that lead to the establishment of a Spanish mission in 1716, in what would be become Nacogdoches, the oldest settlement in Texas.

The legend was told for centuries about how twin Indian brothers were instructed by their father, on his deathbed, to take their tribes and travel for three days in opposite directions. The future of these two brave men, Nakahodot and Natchitos, culminates in the founding of the oldest settlements in Texas and Louisiana, Nacogdoches and Natchitoches.

LEGEND AT LANANA CREEK K e i th R R ee s

Where Legend Upon the Cane followed the life of Chief Natchitos, Legend at Lanana Creek follows the life of the other twin brother, Chief Nakahodot.

Nakahodot leads his tribe on an arduous trek fraught with peril, but they are rewarded with their new home set in a peaceful area of the Piney Woods between two tranquil streams called Lanana and Banita Creeks. Here they encounter French and Spanish explorers over many years as well as facing natural disasters, famine and other hardships.

They also witness the introduction of Christianity to the area by Spanish missionaries. The missionaries are led by Domingo Ramon and the fearless Franciscan priest, Father Antonio Margil de Jesus.

By an ironic twist of fate, they are also joined by Louis Juchereau de St. Denis, the French explorer who established the post at Natchitoches only two years before in 1714 alongside Chief Natchitos.

The efforts of the three men result in the historic establishment of the mission called Nuestra Señora de Gua-

dalupe in 1716, which became the foundation for the settlement called Nacogdoches.

Keith R. Rees has been writing for 25 years in multiple genres, including historical fiction, science fiction, paranormal, and romance and poetry as well. Legend at Lanana Creek is his 10th novel and eighth to be published.

He has also written, most recently, a trilogy called the One Night Trilogy, which part one, One Night in Bangkok, was released in 2018 by Savant Books

and Publications. Parts two and three are completed but not released at this time. He has also released a paranormal ghost story in 2019, Specter in the Glass. All his works are available on Amazon.com.

Rees grew up in Natchtitoches, Louisiana, which is where he had heard the tale of the Indian legend for years and the town’s unique relationship to Nacogdoches. He attended Northwestern State University and Louisiana Tech University, where he graduated in 1992. He currently resides in Cedar Park, Texas.

MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 37

county line

MAGAZINE

ADVERTISE WITH US. IT WORKS!

We at Winnsboro Center for the Arts in Winnsboro established a relationship with P.A. Geddie and County Line Magazine over five years ago. They worked with us then in developing an advertising plan and continue to work with us now on ad content and direction.

CLM has always been responsive with the changes and edits that are a part of the changing needs of advertising and promotion. The staff at CLM has a passion for promoting the Upper East Side of Texas and all of the many events, concerts and activities in it. They have created a truly excellent magazine and it's not unusual for folks to tell us that they saw us in County Line Magazine.

Jim Willis Director of The Bowery Stage Winnsboro Center for the Arts County Line Magazine is our “go to” publication for marketing Mineola, Texas, to our target audience in the North by Northeast Texas area. We know that County Line Magazine will present our entertainment and leisure information in the best light possible with attractive ads and interesting articles that its readers will notice and enjoy.

Visitors to our city often comment that they saw our information in the County Line Magazine. Fast response on ad proofs and changes make working with staff a pleasure. We love County Line Magazine.

Lynn Kitchens Director of Marketing Asst. Director Economic Development City of Mineola

Reach those who Live & Play in the Upper East Side of Texas

County Line has always been and continues to be a significant partner to our community. The magazine is beautifully laid out, filled with relevant information, and reaches our most important target market — the Northeast Texas drive market. The County Line Team is always very professional and the magazine is a great asset to the entire area.

Kevin Banks Manager, Greenville CVB P.A. Geddie and the County Line are a tremendous asset for us at Four Winds Steakhouse. We have worked together for about 14 years. Through the years I have seen the publication grow and consistently get better. It has been a great local tool for our business and its reach continues to grow. They do a great job putting our ads together and I enjoy working with P.A. Frank Rumore Four Winds Steakhouse

www.CountyLineMagazine.com • (903) 963-1101 38 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

60th Student Invitational

VISIT

Gun Barrel City

Featuring works from 9-12th graders from 15 schools. Oils, Acrylics, Photography, Digital Photography, Sculpture, Pottery, Mixed Media, Pencil & more.

...Shootin' Straight for 50 Years

ON DISPLAY

MARCH 7-28, 2020

Kilgore College Rangerettes:

Come Stay & Play.

We Aim to Please!

Celebrating 80 years A Photographic Essay

by O. Rufus Lovett ON DISPLAY

APRIL 11- JUNE 27, 2020

903.753.8103

LMFA.org

215 E. Tyler St. Longview, TX 75601 Admission is Free for Members, $5 for Guests.

Visit the website for exhibit details.

Lone Star Impressions II 903.887.1087 • www.gunbarrelcity.net

C. MILLER DRILLING Water Wells Done Right Deep Well Drilling & Service

Residential •Agricultural • Commercial • Pump Service, Pulling & Sales Ask About Our Sand-Free Water Guarantee Every Deep Well Pressure Cemented

www.cmillerdrilling.com

Serving North East Texas Since 1983 Master Texas License 2464

let us install your well right

• 7355 East Hwy 154 • Winnsboro

800-594-2187 • 903-725-6524

north east texas area

• wood county

Prints by Flatbed Press On view March 1 – May 31 Tyler Museum of Art 1300 South Mahon Avenue • Tyler, TX www.tylermuseum.org

MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 39

MUSIC

See www.countylinemagazine.com for extensive music listings.

The Hit Men Play Classic Rock

MUSIC March 6

Asleep at the Wheel - 50th Anniversary. Mt. Pleasant, Whatley Center for Performing Arts, (903) 434-8181, www.whatleycenter.com Luke LaPrade. Ben Wheeler, Moore’s Store, (903) 833-5100, www.mooresstore.com

March 7

Friction Farm. Edom, The Old Firehouse, (903) 852-2781, www.jeffreylancephotography. com/theoldfirehouse/concerts.html Annual Tribute to Townes Van Zandt. Ben Wheeler, The Forge, (903) 833-5970, www.theforgebenwheeler.com Cash & King. Tyler, Liberty Hall, (903) 5957274, libertytyler.com

March 14

Sofia Talvik. Winnsboro Center for the Arts, (903) 342-0686, www.winnsborocenterforthearts.com The Hitmen. Greenville Municipal Auditorium, (903) 457-3126, www.showtimeatthegma.com Shake Russell & Michael Hearne. Dallas, Poor David’s Pub, (214) 565-1295, poordavidspub.com

March 21 The Hit Men, (left to right), Steve Murphy, Lee Shapiro, Russ Velazquez, Jim Ryan, and Jeff Ganz.

Courtesy photo

Rock & Roll supergroup The Hit Men performs at 7:30 p.m. March 14 at the Greenville Municipal Auditorium.

The Hit Men, classic rock’s unique supergroup of legendary side men, are the 2019 recipients of Nashville’s Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum first-ever Road Warriors Award, given to them to honor “their years of dedication to the music, and the countless miles they have traveled in delivering so many hits throughout the world.”

The Hit Men are five musicians who recorded and/or toured with the artists whose hits they play — including the biggest names in rock history from Paul McCartney and Elton John, to Frankie Valli, Foreigner, The Who, Toto, Carole King, Cat Stevens, Jim Croce, The Rascals and more. They appear on some 85 albums, many of them gold and platinum. They are the actual artists heard in concert

and on the original versions of classic rock’s most important songs.

In their multi-media show, The Hit Men not only play the classic rock hits they helped rocket to the top of the Billboard charts, they also share fascinating insider back stories about their days on the road and in recording studios with rock royalty. From transistor radios, vinyl, 8-track tapes and cassettes to the Sony Walkman, CD’s, digital downloads and the Apple iPod, The Hit Men have seen and heard it all.

The Hit Men are: keyboardist and group founder Lee Shapiro, lead guitarist/vocalist Jimmy Ryan, bassist/vocalist Jeff Ganz, keyboardist, percussionist & vocalist Russ Velazquez and drummer and vocalist, Steve Murphy.

Learn more about them on www.thehitmenlive.com and for tickets visit www.showtimeatthegma.com

40 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

Dogwood Jamboree- Country From The Heart. Palestine High School Auditorium, (903) 723-6291, dogwoodjamboree.com Roger Creager. Crockett, Lightnin’ Hopkins Park, (936) 544-4276, www.pwfaa.org Johnny Rodriguez & Johnny Bush.

Greenville Municipal Auditorium, (903) 4573126, www.showtimeatthegma.com Music of Cream. Greenville, Texan Theater, (903) 259-6360, texantheatergreenville.com

March 26-28

Annual Palestine Old Time Music and Dulcimer Festival. Palestine, Museum for East Texas Culture, (903) 723-3014, visitpalestine.com

March 26

Tapestry, The Carole King Songbook.

Corsicana, The Palace Theatre, (903) 8747792, www.corsicanapalace.com Penny & Sparrow. Tyler, Liberty Hall, (903) 595-7274, libertytyler.com

March 27

Chicks With Hits featuring Terri Clark, Pam Tillis and Suzy Bogguss. Bossier City, Horshoe Casino’s Riverdome, (800) 895-0711 Tapestry, The Carole King Songbook. Mt. Pleasant, Whatley Center for Performing Arts,

Bowery Stage Presents John McEuen and The String Wizards John McEuen, a founding member of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, and the String Wizards present “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” on The Bowery Stage at Winnsboro Center for the Arts at 7 p.m. Friday, April 17.

Appearing in the show are Matt Cartonis, Les Thompson (another founding member of NGDB) and John Cable who joined NGDB in 1977.

Guests will hear many of the NGBD favorites along with other songs from the iconic 1972 “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” album.

Tickets, $39 and $49, are available on Eventbrite or at the Winnsboro Center for the Arts website www.winnsborocenterforthearts.com

(l-r) Les Thompson, John Cable, John McEuen and Matt Cartsonis present “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” April 17 on the Bowery Stage at Winnsboro Center for the Arts. Courtesy photo 8181, www.whatleycenter.com

(903) 434-8181, www.whatleycenter.com

March 28

Adler & Hearne. Edom, The Old Firehouse, (903) 852-2781, www.theoldfirehouse.net

Gene Watson. Linden, Music City Texas Theater, (903) 756-9934, www.musiccitytexas. org

April 3

Stray Cat Lee Rocker. Longview, SE Belcher Center, (903) 233-3080, www.belchercenter.com

April 10

Mary Gauthier with Jaimee Harris.

Winnsboro Center for the Arts, (903) 342-0686, winnsborocenterforthearts.com

April 17

Symphonie Fantastique. UT Tyler Cowan Center, (903) 566-7424, utxt-internet.choicecrm. net Yesterday & Today: Interactive Beatles Experience. Longview, Belcher Center, (903) 233-3080, www.belchercenter.com

April 2

John Michael Montgomery. Crockett Civic Center, (936) 544-4276, www.pwfaa.org Ruthie Foster. Tyler, Liberty Hall, (903) 5957274, libertytyler.com John McEuen & The String Wizards.

Winnsboro Center for the Arts, (903) 342-0686, winnsborocenterforthearts.com

April 18

An Evening with the Monkees. Bossier City, Horshoe Casino’s Riverdome, (800) 895-0711, Monica Rizzio. Winnsboro Center for the Arts, (903) 342-0686, winnsborocenterforthearts.com

Shades of Buble. Greenville Municipal Auditorium, (903) 457-3126, www.showtimeatthegma.com

Home Free. Longview, SE Belcher Center, (903) 233-3080, www.belchercenter.com

Rebecca Loebe Album Release. Dallas, Poor David’s Pub,(214) 565-1295, poordavidspub. com

Dr. Andrew Daniel, Guitar. Mt. Pleasant, Whatley Center for Performing Arts, (903) 434-

April 19

April 23

Deanna Carter. Corsicana, The Palace Theatre, (903) 874-7792, www.corsicanapalace. com

April 24

Luke LaPrade. Ben Wheeler, Moore’s Store, (903) 833-5100, www.mooresstore.com A Dream Is a Wish. Longview, LeTourneau University Belcher Center, (903) 233-3080, www.longviewsymphony.org

April 25

Texas A&M Commerce Grand Chorus.

Greenville Municipal Auditorium, (903) 4573126, www.showtimeatthegma.com Jo-El Sonnier: An Evening of Stories and Music. Winnsboro Center for the Arts, (903) 342-0686, winnsborocenterforthearts.com

SEE MORE EVENTS ON

COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.com

LIVE MUSIC EVERY WEEK UPPER EAST SIDE OF TEXAS

www.countylinemagazine.com/Arts-Guide MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 41

PAPER

Indulge YOU DESERVE IT

Special Springtime Events March 21 & 22 9th Annual Tour of Corsicana Bicycle Race

THROUGH HISTORIC DOWNTOWN

March 26 “Tapestry, The Carole King Songbook” PALACE THEATRE

April 24 & 25 Annual

Derrick Days Festival Celebrating the hometown and history of Texas oil Parade, Street Fair, Chili Cookoff & Rodeo

Photo: Hand-drawn chalk mural in historic Corsicana, Texas.

May 9

JOIN US IN

22nd Annual

Corsicana AirSho “The best little airshow in Texas”

CORSICANA

Still just $15 per year!

Browse our event calendar and book your weekend stay at

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

CORSICANA MUNICIPAL AIRPORT

TEXAS

May 14-24 “Gypsy”

WAREHOUSE LIVING ARTS CENTER

May 15 & 16 Texas Veterans Parade Weekend Medal of Honor Dinner & Parade COOK CENTER & DOWNTOWN

SUBSCRIBE!

& Every Second Saturday Mimosas at the Market Sipping & Shopping

visitcorsicana.com 9 0 3 -6 5 4 -4 8 5 0

THROUGHOUT DOWNTOWN

Northeast Texas Antiques & Auctions

county line Upper East Side of Texas Regional Magazine

fl&g Bid In Online Auctions!

www.netxauctions.com

(903) 960-9491

f

42 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

Located at the Red Barn Antiques & More Vendor Mall 827 S. Main St. Winnsboro, Texas

903.963.1101 countylinemagazine.com

381 381W. W.Lennon LennonDr. Dr. 903-473-0061 903-473-0061

Explore Wood County!

EXPLORE WOOD MeetingCOUNTY the locals has never been so memorable

1026 E. Lennon Dr. 903-473-2022

Beyond the Lure of Big Fish!

Small Town Hospitality Golf, Skating Music, Art Shopping, Dining Parks, Nature Center Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Museums Movie Theater Stage Performances Bed & Breakfasts, Hotels, RV Park, Marinas Special Events

www.woodcountytx.com www.woodcountytx.com • (903) 768-2402 Wood County Tourism

MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 43

FOOD & DRINK A Bit of Greece in the Upper East Side of Texas Downtown Emory Cafe Provides Authentic Experience for Guests Stefanos Greek Kouzina & Pastry Shop 234 E. Quitman Street Emory, Texas (903) 953-0111 Review by P.A. Geddie Tucked into a tiny historic building off the downtown courthouse square in Emory, Texas, is Stefanos Greek Kouzina & Pastry Shop. This authentic cafe pulls out all the stops to give guests a little piece of Greece right in the middle of the Upper East Side of Texas.

Greek music is playing, and the walls inside are colorfully decorated with art, photos and murals of Greece memorabilia. A tall glass-encased shelf holds homemade pastries and showcases some of the ingredients like Ouzo that go in to them.

There’s outdoor seating and inside is a cozy room with a few private tables and a community table sitting in the middle of the room. All the happy customers are eager to share their favorites and make recommendations — all of them said there’s not a bad item on the menu.

On the recommendation of one patron, I ordered the “Cassie” Gyro Pita and was very pleased with the choice.

It comes with chicken or you can get a beef/lamb combo. I chose the chicken. It came topped with amazing Greek Garlic Slaw and I ordered a side of Greek Fries. Those came topped with olive oil and Feta cheese.

Really good.

The rest of the menu is filled with traditional Greek foods like Spanakopita, Falafel, Dolmas, hummus and dips, several gyro’s, pitas, char-broil specials, and many Greek plate specials too numerous to mention. They also have several soups and salads to choose from. Take a look at their full menu on their Facebook page.

Stefanos is owned and operated by John and Cara Stefanos and helped by their daughter Cassie who created that delicious gyro I enjoyed.

I grabbed a mixed bag of the pastries to share with some friends and it was

44 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

all really delicious. We had the Hazelnut Rum Cake, Baklava Cheesecake, and Greek Wedding Cookies.

The food, the ambience, the people, all made this a wonderful experience and I’ll be back for more.

An East Texas Tradition Burgers, Premium Hand-Dipped Ice Cream, Breakfast Anytime, and more

Open 24/7 at

Best Steakhouse

County Line Magazine Hall of Fame

I-20 & Hwy 19 in Canton, TX An East Texas Tradition

903-567-6551 • dairypalace.com

Burgers, Premium Hand-Dipped Ice Cream, Breakfast Anytime, and more

An East Texas Tradition

I-20 & Hwy 19 in Canton, TX

Open 24/7 at

e t a r b e l e Come C s!

With U Open 24/7 at

903-567-6551 • dairypalace.com

Burgers, Premium Hand-Dipped Ice Cream, Breakfast Anytime, and more

I-20 & Hwy 19 in Canton, TX 903-567-6551 • dairypalace.com

Tuesday & Wednesday

DINNER SPECIAL

Mixed Green Salad Choice of Fresh Fish of the Day, Ribeye Steak, or Filet Mignon Served with Whipped Potatoes and Green Beans $29.00

Top 100 American Steakhouses

Celebration Dining District

OpenTable.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

Make A Reservation

903.873.2225

www.fourwindssteakhouse.com

“Where the Locals Eat!”

Fb.com/SulphurSpringsTexas

www.sulphurspringstx.org RESTAURANT LIVE MUSIC FULL BAR MOORE FUN! Ben Wheeler, TX

mooresstore.com 903.833.5100

MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 45

Townes Van Zandt TRIBUTE TO

HELD ANNUALLY ON THE FIRST SATURDAY OF MARCH

SATURDAY

March 7, 2020

FEATURING Matt Harlan Chris Edwards Shane Rendon Grady Lee Nick Brumley Cole Allen

6 - 8 p.m.

Followed by Open Jam

BEN WHEELER Van Zandt County, Texas FOR MORE INFORMATION theforgebenwheeler.com (903) 833-5970

2nd AnnuAl

Art Stroll & long tAble dinner CelebrAting the ArtS, Food & Wine SAturdAy, MAy 9, 2020 edoM, texAS

Singer-songwriters pay tribute to the most influential Texas songwriter of the 20th century For tiCketS & More inForMAtion go to

V iS it e d oM . Co M Brought to you by Van Zandt Arts & Cultural District Foundation VanZandtACD.com

VA N Z A N D T ARTS & CULTURAL DISTRICT

county line

explore guides MAGAZINE

Get to know the spirit of the lively communities that define the Upper East Side of Texas.

EVENTS. ARTICLES. ARTS. DINING. PLAYING. SHOPPING. LODGING.

www.CountyLineMagazine.com/Explore-Guides 46 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • MARCH/APRIL 2020

The Pegasus Project Horse Rescue Celebrates

6th Annual Wings Over Pegasus April 11, 2020 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Horses • Airplanes • Skydivers Helicopters • Easter Egg Hunt Silent Auction • Face Painting Bounce House • Pony Rides

April 11 Admission $10 per car Food and Games available for purchase

9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Historic Downtown Grand Saline, Texas

FREE LIVE MUSIC 7111 FM 2339, Murchison TX • 903-469-3578 www.PegasusRescue.org • www.Facebook.com/PegasusRescue

10-11:30 a.m.

BORDERLINE Noon - 1:30 p.m.

CJ DANIELS 2-3:30 p.m.

LUKE LAPRADE 4-5:30 p.m.

RYAN SAVALLO BAND FUN-FILLED DAY Bunny Parade Golden Easter Egg Hunt Food, Wine, & Shopping Landscape Plants 5K Run Bingo, Cornhole, 50-50 Raffle Children’s Games, Bounce House

(903) 962-5631 grandsalinemainstreet.com

f

MARCH/APRIL 2020 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 47

VAN GO Art Fair

Saturday April 11, 2020 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Van City Park Van, TX PRODUCED BY

Van Zandt Arts & Cultural District CITY OF VAN SPONSORED BY

DOOR CONTROLS USA Austin Bank County Line Magazine Edom Art Emporium

VanGoArtFair.com

ART • MUSIC • FOOD • WINE • KIDS’ ART