NETX Crossroads

C NETX

ROSSROADS MAGAZINE

Hometown

Christmas in Atlanta

By KATE STOW and SHAWN LARSON, page 14

BOOTS & BELLS An Olde West Christmas

By DI DUNCAN, page 18

HOME IS WHERE THE HOPE IS

By TONI WALKER, page 20

... and more!

About the Cover

NOVEMBER 2020

Kyla Barnes, a senior from DeKalb High School, transforms into a butterfly before the camera as her best friend Stephanie Studdard snapped this picture in downtown Texarkana.

NETX

C

CONTENTS

S D A O R S ROS MAGAZIN

E

From the attic to the manor

wn Hometo

s ChrAistltamntaa in

By KATE

, page 14

SON SHAWN LAR STOW and

BOOTS & BELLS t Wes An Olde as m 18 Christ e CAN, pag

10

By DI DUN

HOME IS E WHERE TISH HOPE

By TONI

WALKER,

page 20

re! ... and mo

GlenHaven

24

12

C NETX

ROSSROADS Published and distributed by

MAGAZINE

Northeast Texas Publishing, LP in Bowie, Camp, Cass, Gregg, Morris, Titus and Upshur counties.

© NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE — ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Please contact us with questions, story ideas or advertising requests via email at info@NETXcrossroads.com or call us at

903.796.7133 • 903.628.5801 903.856.6629 • 903.572.1705

Find us online at

4

www.NETXcrossroads.com

Big things come in (and from) small packages Pineywoods Chapel and Trails

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Di Duncan Tim Emmons Shawn Larson Caleb Moseley Kate Stow Toni Walker PHOTOGRAPHERS Kate Stow Toni Walker GRAPHIC DESIGNER Joni Guess

NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2020

3

From the attic to the manor

Ted Brabham play s the antique baby gran d at Camelot Manor An tiques.

Camelot Manor is decorated early each Fall by Judy Pitts of Cobblestone Gifts and Interiors.

Story & photo by

F

or two years Grandma’s Attic on Williams Street in Atlanta grew until it was bursting at the seams. To remedy the problem, owners Ted and Penny Brabham bought a larger building at 118 East Main Street from the city and moved everything across the street just a few weeks ago.

With the move came a new name – Camelot Manor Antiques and Decorative Arts. The store offers high-end pieces from all over the country and Europe, as well as vintage collectibles, Pyrex dishes, toys, fishing lures, carnival glass, sterling silver, Godiva chocolates, candles and Waldorf crystal.

“I have pickers all over the country and in Europe. They send photos and I decide if I want it or not,” he said. “I’ve got pieces up to $4,000.00 here. While I do have some vintage items, I don’t have the usual flea-market finds. We decided to change the name because most of what we have can’t be found in anybody’s attic.”

The Brabhams started the business four years ago after a massive stroke left Ted disabled. “I can’t lift or do much of anything. I have people that come help me when things need moving or rearranging,” he said. “But I do know and love antiques.”

He developed his love for antiques as a child being raised by his grandparents, Bernice and Vasco Brabham. Bernice had a penchant for antique stores and insisted on finding one in every town

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KATE STOW they visited on vacations.

“Momma used to say ‘why read about history when you can live with it?,” Ted recalled.

Currently his oldest piece is a large painting from France, circa 1790. The rarest is an authentic Civil War drum from the 68th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment that was formed in 1861 as part of the Army of the Potomac. The regiment fought at Gettysburg, among other battles.

For reference, an item is considered antique when it reaches 100 years old. The period of 1920-1959 is considered the Art Deco era, Vintage is 1935-1949, Mid-Century Modern/Retro is the 1950’s through the 1970’s.

Perhaps his favorite item in the store is the 1908 baby grand piano that was owned by Grandma Allday – the matriarch of one of Atlanta’s founding families. It sits in a corner of the showroom surrounded by other musical pieces. Ted, a classical pianist, plays the antique often when he’s there alone, or when a customer requests it.

Having been raised in Atlanta, Ted is knowledgeable of local history – the founding families of town, their homes, businesses and descendants are favorite topics of his. He can tell you just about anything you care to know about the area.

NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

“I buy local whenever I can. A lot of the store is made up of items I found here,” he said. “I bought several items from the estate of the late Brigadier General Langston Pyle – his uniform, medals, and a portrait that hung over his fireplace.”

One of his more unusual pieces is a miniature upright 64 key piano, manufactured in Imperial Japan. “It’s not a toy, it’s the real deal,” he said, adding, “it’s just a scaled-down version.”

The only item in the store that isn’t for sale, or negotiable, is the antique counter with marble pull-out shelf. It came from the estate of Randolph Churchill, son of former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

While Ted searches out specific pieces for some of his customers, the store is full of unique items he bought based on resale value. “I pay 50% of what I know I can get for it,” he explained.

“Most dealers only pay ten cents on the dollar. We own everything in this store. We do not do consignment.”

The holiday season is his favorite time of year and he splurges on Christmas décor. Cobblestone Interiors and Gifts owner Judy Pitts decorates for him each year.

Whether you are in the market for vintage collectibles or rare antiques, Ted either has it, or can get it for you. The Camelot Manor Facebook Page ( formerly Grandma’s Attic page) has helped him to sell items all over the country.

“I sold an item to a man in Portland, Oregon. He flew here and rented a truck to drive it home,” Ted relayed. “About half of my customers are from this area, but I’ll be glad to sell to anyone, anywhere.”

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NOVEMBER 2020

5

MOUNT PLEASANT

Rich in History and Progress B

By

DI DUNCAN

efore Mount Pleasant stood on this land, its occupants were the Caddo Native American Tribe. The Caddo have a rich history in this area, living off of the land for more than 1,000 years before European settlers arrived. The Caddo were known for their cultural society, farming practices, permanent villages, and burial mounds.

In the early to mid 1800s, the Caddo were forced to move to a reservation, and early settlers of Northeast Texas took over the land in the 1830s. The town of Mount Pleasant was established a decade later. It was built on the road from Clarksville to Jefferson, making it a prime target for early settlers of the area. By 1850, the town had a population of 227.

Industry began to grow in the town. Farmers utilized Jefferson river ports to export their cash crops. In 1876, railroads made their way into the town, increasing tourism and business exports and imports. At this time, the county had a population of over 9,000.

As time went on, so did progress. By 1910, the town boasted a beautiful courthouse and downtown square, a grand hotel, a cafe, and many other businesses. The railroad now connected Mount Pleasant to Fort Worth, Sherman, Texarkana, and Paris.

The hustle and bustle in the town continued as the town grew over decades. In 1970, the flourishing town was home to attractions such as movie theaters, bowling alleys, and shopping malls, while still maintaining a thriving downtown area.

Today, Mount Pleasant honors the history of the town and the downtown area, repurposing the original buildings. The city has been recognized by the Texas Historical Commission as a Main Street Texas City for its work in keeping downtown alive.

Jo’s Downtown is a coffee shop and ministry center that

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NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

occupies one of the antique buildings. Much of the original building materials remain in the space, and furniture from the same period is used throughout. Jo’s prides itself on its ability to maintain the original charm of the structure, while making the space feel modern.

Nardello’s is a pizzeria that has taken up residency across the square from Jo’s. Owners of the space created an industrial feel in the building, which was formerly a hardware store. The original paintings from the hardware store remain, making the space a quirky mix of new and old.

Many other downtown buildings have been beautifully restored and repurposed. A 1940s hospital has been replaced with a lawyer’s office. Many department stores have been molded into new ones. One old structure has been turned into the Edison Phonograph Museum.

Other areas of the city rich in history include historic cemeteries and Dellwood Park. Dellwood Park was originally a Caddo burial ground. In the early 1900s, a grand, two-story hotel was constructed on the site. In 1925, the hotel burned, leaving only the concrete steps to the entrance. The city of Mount Pleasant purchased the site in the 1950s and transformed it into a park, with the concrete steps still intact. Today, the park is a sprawling 43 acres of trails, outdoor event spaces, fountains, and natural life.

The city of Mount Pleasant is a wonderland of old meeting new, with today’s attractions paying tribute to the city’s heritage, ensuring that heritage is never lost or forgotten.

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LOVE A FAMILY...

Feed a Family

C

By

CALEB MOSELEY

hristmas time can be one of the most wonderful times of the year, but for more people than what most realize, it can also be a very stressful time of the year. At Rock Solid Resource Center in New Boston they are wanting to help all that they can. In 2018, Rock Solid start an event called ‘Love a Family-Feed a Family’ and one of the operators, Robert Little, had this to say about it,

“We are not trying to come up with something new with this.

Plenty of people have donation events such as this. We are just simply trying to help anyone that needs help because even though there are others that do this, not everyone is helped.”

Love a Family-Feed a Family is a food pantry type event in which people must apply to receive a meal according to Robert and Beth Little, “For Love a Family-Feed a Family we provide families in need with a Christmas dinner. It comes with either a ham or turkey, a few sides, and some tea. If you imagine having a family Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, that is the stuff that you would find in this Christmas box. It is uncooked so that the families can cook it and use it at their Christmas.

We deliver boxes to people, we have people come and pick up boxes, and we have people who volunteer to help us deliver the boxes. While we mainly just serve those that are in Bowie County, especially the West end of Bowie County, we have delivered to people who are on the outside of Bowie. We have delivered to Morris, Red River County, and a few other places as well. We just want to help everyone that we can help. We have had families who needed help that are now able to help and they help out how they can. We have had families

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NOVEMBER 2020

who were able to help, but now need help. We just want to make sure we can reach as many families as we can.

We were able to help out 300 families last Christmas, and are looking to help more this year.”

Of course none of this would be possible without the gracious donors that help Rock Solid will monetary donations or donations of food to make sure that they are able to help feed these families who need their help. All that they pass out to the families in need is by the ‘sponsors’ they have who help them donate, “We try to promote helping families in need. We allow for people to sponsor families of all sizes. We also have had a lot of people just donate money and tell us to use that to feed as many families as that can. Some people have donated just some actual goods themselves. We have some people from Dallas come to help us pass out boxes NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

or pack up the boxes. We are willing to allow people to help out in any way that they can help.” Donating to Love a Family-Feed a Family is not only a good cause it is easy, “We have a sponsorship form in which people will fill out to be able to sponsor a family. We have people who contact us and just ask us how they can send us money or supplies. When they ask that, we usually reply with ‘what is the easiest way for you to send it?’ Some people use Venmo, Cashapp, PayPal, and some just use regular snail mail. If we cannot accept that form at that time, we can find a way to get one very quick.” If you would like to donate, the best thing to do is just to get in contact with them and discuss what would be easiest for you. You can reach them at the number (903)628-0048 and their email ‘rocksolid724@gmail.com’.

Christmas is a stressful time for a lot of people, and Rock Solid just wants to do all that they can to help. They do numerous other things as well. They run a food pantry that give out food every third Saturday of the month, however according to Robert and Beth, November is going to be a bit different, “In light of the extreme circumstances of this year and the increased need we have decided that Rock Solid need to double up and make sure that no one in our communities goes hungry. So we are not only going to do the Love a Family-Feed a Family Christmas meal boxes, but we are going to distribute Thanksgiving meal boxes the Saturday before Thanksgiving as well from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.”

For more information regarding donating, or showing that you have a need, you can contact Robert and Beth Little at Rock Solid by phone at (903)628-0048 or by email at ‘rocksolid724@gmail.com.

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NOVEMBER 2020

9

BIGcome THINGS in (and from)

small packages W

Story & photos by

hen you think of areas with plenty to do, you may think of larger areas like Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, or some of their neighboring cities and towns. However, there is plenty to find in Northeast Texas, specifically in Morris County.

According to the United States Census in 2010, Morris County is the fifth smallest county in Texas by area, measuring only 259 total square miles. But Morris County is by no means a lowly location. There are plenty of people, places, and things that Morris County is known for, and plenty of activities that make a trip to the area worthwhile.

SPORTS ACTION

Anyone in Texas will surely tell you they have at least heard of Daingerfield Tiger Football. What many people do not realize is that Morris County, which includes Daingerfield High School and Paul H. Pewitt High School, has been represented at the State Football Cham10

NOVEMBER 2020

TONI WALKER pionship 13 times. The State Championship trophy has found its way back to Morris County seven times, with Daingerfield winning it all in 1968, 1983, 1985, 2008, 2009, and 2010. The Brahmas added to the total when they won the 2A crown in 1993.

In addition to the championship caliber football in Morris County, the area has also been a relative hotbed for professional players, as well. At least 14 players have played in the National Football League, or at the very least was a participant in an NFL team’s training camp.

Both the Tigers and Brahmas are faring well in the current season, with both teams looking to advance to the playoffs again. In others words, if Friday night football is what gets you excited, take a trip to Morris County in the fall and catch a game involving either Morris County school. You surely won’t be disappointed.

ris County is still the place to be for ample fishing opportunities. Anglers and boaters alike can choose from wetting a hook or casting their boat off at Lone Star Lake or Lake of the Pines. During summer months, both are full of boaters and anglers enjoying the waterways offered in Morris County. Many record catches have been recorded from both bodies of water, and the recreational boating and water activities boom during the summer months. (Of course, anglers can be found on Morris county bodies of water throughout the year!)

DAINGERFIELD STATE PARK

In addition to previously mentioned Lone Star Lake and Lake o’ the Pines,

Daingerfield State Park offers fishing and more for the outdoor enthusiast. Construction on the Civilian Conservation Corp Park began in 1935 and was completed in 1939. The park features an 80-acre lake nestled in what is known as the “Cathedral in the Trees.” Anglers can catch their limit on largemouth bass, rainbow trout, striped bass, pickerel, blue catfish and catfish. (And, like all state parks, a fishing license is not required at Daingerfield State Park!)

Fishing is not all that Daingerfield State Park has to offer. There are hiking trails and a swimming area.

During normal seasons, the park also features boat, cabin, and camping space rental. (Be sure to call ahead to check availability.)

FISHING/BOATING

If you are looking for more of a year-round activity, Mor-

Daingerfield State Park NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

HISTORIC SITES

If you are looking more for a place to visit and have a nice picnic, Morris County can offer that, as well. The Truitt Family Cabin, located in Morris County is an original cabin dating back to the days of the Republic of Texas. The dog-run style cabin has been renovated by descendants of the Truitt family in recent years, using as much original material as possible. The cabin, which is located in Jenkins, has been certified as a “Texas Historical Archeological Landmark,� and 2020 marked the 179th anniversary of the Truitt family in Texas. The cabin is open to the public, free of charge, for photographs and family portraits, family reunions, picnics, re-enactments, school outings and more.

Though it may not be labeled as a historic site, the former

The Truitt Family Cabin

Lone Star Steel Plant still holds historic clout in Lone Star and Morris County. In its prime, the plant churned out steel pipe and tubing that was sent worldwide. With the decline in the steel industry over the past several years,

the plant, currently owned

by United States Steel, is no longer the bustling industrial center that it once was. But those who spent time behind the gates have stories to tell of the glory days of the steel industry in Lone Star.

Suffice it to say, the little East Texas area known as Morris County has more than its share of things to do and reasons to be proud. So, plan to make a trip soon. You will surely find more than enough to do.

Heavenly Father, give us thankful hearts for these and all other blessings. ~B.C. Sustaire During this Thanksgiving season, we are thankful for friends, family and treasured memories.

May you have a wonderfully blessed Thanksgiving!

(903) 572-7591

BODY SHOP NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

Hwy. 67 East Mt. Pleasant

NOVEMBER 2020

11

GlenHaven

A Farm. A Ministry. A Way of Life

By

CALEB MOSELEY

“A Farm. A Ministry. A Way of Life.” as it says on their brochure.

GlenHaven Farm is based out of the small town of Avery, Texas.

To the people that have been there, and especially to the ones that have worked there, GlenHaven is more than just a farm, it is a place in which they learn and grow.

According to operator, Susan Livingston, “My sister, Beth, and I started and also run GlenHaven. We are basically a combination of ministry and farming. GlenHaven came to be a little less than five years ago. We came here at the will of the Lord, to set up a discipleship camp and a farm. The farm is the vehicle for the ministry itself.”

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While the farm supports their ability to continue to be a ministry to others, they sell different items from their farm.

“We raise some pastured beef, pastured eggs, pastured chicken, some duck eggs, and we also sell a few other items out of our shop. We sell off the farm and also at the Winnsboro farmers market. We occasionally make trips to Dallas or Houston to sell to some people, but we have not been doing that since COVID-19 hit us. Out of our shop we sell pickles, preserves, skin care products, and some other stuff that can be used as decorations,” Susan said as she was talking about the farm.

She mentioned that there has been an increase in the past NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

several months, “We have actually sold out of our stock a few different times since March. We were able to get in to see the butcher and get some of our meat processed, but some stuff we are on a waiting list until next year because everything is so backed up.”

Bringing people closer to God is a huge aspect at GlenHaven according to Susan. She says, “Ministry has always been a calling to me. I was a part of the youth program at my church down in Houston. So, when the Lord called me to be here, I wanted to try to continue my work in ministry. We hire local youth to help around the farm, teach them about life, and also to help them grow closer to God as well. That is just one of the biggest things to me. The farm is awesome, but making sure we do all that we can to bring people closer to Him is our goal.”

Getting GlenHaven started was not the easiest thing in the world, and they had help along the way. Susan states, “It has been a huge team effort developing what is here. So many people have come together to contribute their piece of what has become. I cannot thank them enough. Of course, my biggest thanks goes to the Lord. I thank Him for bringing me here and showing me a different side of life. For making promises, and keeping those promises. He has truly blessed me.”

Getting in touch with the folks on the farm is possible in multiple ways. You can contact them at (832)398-0218, at their email “glenhaventx@gmail.com”, or at their website at “glenhaventx. com”. They can also be found on “localharvest.org” under GlenHaven Farm. They are located at 17954 FM 44 S Avery, Texas 75554.

NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2020

13

Hometown

Christmas in Atlanta

By

F

KATE STOW and SHAWN LARSON Photos By KATE STOW

or one day a year the small East Texas town of Atlanta turns into a winter wonderland.

Reindeer, camels, clowns, jugglers and Santa Claus all converge downtown to complete the Hometown Christmas celebration, which will be held on December 12 this year from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Christmas comes alive in a real and vibrant way as you hear the laughter of children, smell the smells that come along the Christmas season. As you walk down the street decorated in Christmas bells, reindeer, candles, candy canes, garland, stockings, wreaths, snow globes, and angels you will think you are living in a Hallmark Christmas movie. Then as you make your way down the way you will be awed by street performers, and enjoy children playing in the various activities around downtown.

Almost all of the town businesses are open so you can find unique gift items that you just can’t get at big chain stores. Some of those local businesses carry antique toys, wares and furniture.

Imagine surprising your 48-year-old adult child with a toy he lost when he was ten or Imagine giving your child that special gift from your childhood that now you both can enjoy.

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NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

There are also several businesses downtown where you can find unique nick-nacks that make great stocking stuffers and other stores where you can get that very special gift piece that will sure to bring tears to that special person in your life.

That evening you can also experience the taste of Atlanta with many of our local businesses serving their local fare. Also, many of the shops will have hot chocolate, ciders, wine, cookies and snacks for patrons to enjoy.

While you are walking down the street you will also be able to do business and get more information from street vendors that are positioned up and down the street.

For those who have never experienced the annual event, events include a Miss Hometown Christmas pageant; a 5K race; Brunch with Santa; a petting zoo; real snow; a movie snow playland; photos with Santa; Cookies with Mrs. Claus; fireworks; and a parade. A horse-drawn carriage will offer tours of downtown, and a miniature train will give children a ride around a transformed parking lot decorated with fake movie snow.

“I feel like the true spirit of our town shines bright, and at least for one night it’s like a real-life Hallmark movie,” said Lisa Porterfield Thompson, Committee CoChairwoman.

For more information and a schedule of event times, find the Facebook event page: 8th Annual Hometown Christmas - Texas Style.

NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2020

15

Atlanta Floral

I have been in the floral business for eight years now, this business is actually what introduced me to my amazing husband of seven years. Scott Carter is the manager of Hanner Funeral Service, so being married into the funeral business, I knew that with prayer & patience my dream would surely become a blessing at hand & I can not give enough praise to the Most High.

Here at Atlanta Floral & Gifts, we are very dedicated & take pride in the hard work we put forth into serving the needs of our customers. We specialize in all holidays, birthdays, funerals, & even “just because” gifts.

We also do tuxedo fittings for special occasions such as weddings & proms, Our goal daily is to be a blessing to someone, so come on down to Atlanta Floral & Gift at 113 East Main Street in Atlanta, Texas & check us out - your presence is always a blessing to us.

For two years Grandma’s Attic on Williams Street in Atlanta grew until it was bursting at the seams. To remedy the problem, owners Ted and Penny Brabham leased a larger building at 113 East Main Street from the city and moved everything across the street just a few weeks ago.

With the move came a new name –

Camelot Manor Antiques and Decorative Arts

The store offers high-end pieces from all over the country and Europe, as well as vintage collectibles, Pyrex dishes, toys, fishing lures, carnival glass, sterling silver, Godiva chocolates, candles and Waldorf crystal.

16

One year ago this month, Lance & Amy Cowling started planning the destination store - The Copper Pine - in their minds. Today, The Copper Pine Kitchen & Home, formerly The Kitchenette, is thriving in downtown Atlanta. They are located inside Price Hardware and are now two separate stores under one roof for convenient shopping. They offer specialty kitchen & home good for the home cook and even a professional chef.

Amy & her daughter, Kelsey Martin, bring their love of home decor to the 3000 SF store around every corner.

You will find dishes. linens, wall decor & all the extra you desire for your home. This is truly a one-stop show for gifts too. The Copper Pine offers wedding registries & beautiful gift wrapping. Gourmet coffee beans are a customer favorite with 40 plus flavors! Gourmet foods are offered as well from Stonewall, Fischer Wieser, Wind & Willow, & Pepper Creek Farms. Come experience this destination shopping experience with friends, make new friends with the Cowlings, & support local, small businesses. They are located inside Price Hardware at 302 N. William Street, Atlanta, Texas. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

NOVEMBER 2020

Since 1983 we have been serving Atlanta and its surrounding areas with a strong attention to detail and a higher level of customer service. We can customize just about anything! We offer embroidery, engraving, vinyl designs, create custom logos, DTG printing, digital and photo transfers. Our screenprint machine can print 150 to 200 shirts per hour! We offer wholesale pricing for orders of 12 or more to anyone. We the addition of a family/team member, he has begun creating online campaigns linked to our website for local fundraisers. Atlanta Athletics and More is very dedicated to Atlanta and the surrounding area and we love showing our appreciation with our fundraisers. We work for large organizations and individuals alike. We can meet your needs for game day, birthdays, family reunions, company picnics to name a few. We have never met a job too big or too small. Please come visit!!

112 N East St • Atlanta, Texas

www.atlantaahtleticsandmore.com • atlantatathleticsandmore@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/AtlantaAthleticsandMORE

903-796-9342 • M-F 10-5

Cobblestone is a small-town boutique with an uptown style!

We have beautiful home decor, bridal registry & gifts for all occasions.

We also have a great line of stylish women’s clothing, jewelry & candles.

Our services include home design, free gift wrap, & custom gift baskets that can be delivered locally or shipped anywhere in the U.S. Some of our most notable product lines are Kendra Scott, Capri Blue, Mud Pie, Thymes & Rowe Casa Organics.

Call us, contact us online, on Facebook or visit our store in Atlanta, Texas.

Owners: Lori Cullens & Judy Pitts

Kellie Cox proudly serves the insurance needs of the greater Atlanta – Cass County area.

As a licensed Farmers agent, she can help with all of your auto, home, business and life insurance needs. “I am grateful to be a part of the revitalized Downtown Atlanta.”

Kellie Cox, Amber Welborn & Sharon Clark would like to wish you happy holidays.

NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

Ray Harp Jewelers

Built on personal customer service & integrity...

Ray Harp Jewelers was established in 1953

by Ray and Doris Harp. Originally in Hughes Springs, Texas, the Harps moved the business to Atlanta in the summer of 1965.

The second, third, and fourth generations of Harp’s business continues with the same service and integrity the customers have learned to trust. As of 2020, Jon and Tamy will be purchasing the business. They hope to continue to serve in this family tradition started by Ray and Doris back in 1953.

MERLE NORMAN COSMETICS ASHLEY BRYANT BOUTIQUE 119 E Main St | Atlanta, Texas | 903-796-2451

Merle Norman Cosmetics is a true American success story that began in the kitchen of founder Merle Norman and has grown to over 1,100 studios worldwide. Today, Merle Norman Cosmetics is home to a vast array of scientifically advanced skincare products, foundation shades, and fashion-forward, trendsetting color products.

Merle Norman’s innovative formulas have won many awards and are. Merle Norman Cosmetics, an awardwinning product and recognized by top beauty editors strives to make a difference in the lives of others through our products and transformative experiences that women enjoy in our studio every day.

Ashley Bryant Boutique, located at Merle Norman Cosmetics, offers an array of clothing and accessories for all ages. From trendy teens to stylish ladies, Ashley Bryant can satisfy your fashion needs. Some of the outstanding brands you will find at Ashley Bryant are Brighton, Pura Vida, Consuela, Tribal, Flora Ashley, Multiples, Slimsations, and many, many more.

Images Salon & Spa was established in October 2016. We are located in Downtown Atlanta in the historic Miles Drugstore building. We are fun, family environment with over 100 years experience in the beauty industry. We specialize in trend cutting & color.

We offer a complete menu of haircare, nails, pedicures, as well as massage & facials. We are a certified Dream Catchers extension Salon.

We, as a salong, are all doing our part to insure our guests have an amazing & safe experience.

Please call for an appointment at 903-796-0999.

Images Salon & Spa

122 N East Street | Atlanta, TX 75551 | 903-796-0999 | Imagesalon@aol.com

The Rabbit Hole

at 204 East Hiram in Atlanta, Texas

is a unique little store with an assortment of booths consisting of antiques, vintage, resale, license plate art, gifts, DVDs, VHS tapes, car air fresheners, jellies, jams, comic books, vinyl pop figures, seasonal items, and much more. Please come in and visit for you will always be surprised at what you find there.

COME CHECK OUT

Terri’s Treasures is an infants’ and children’s boutique that sells clothing and gifts. We offer free gift wrapping and offer shower registries with free local delivery.

Rocking A Western Store & Boutique The one stop shop for men, women, and children. We carry the latest western wear and style. Our brands include, Wrangler, Cinch, Dale Brisby, Lazy J, Rock-N-Roll, Cruel Girl, The Twisted Filly, Sanuk, Twisted X , and Ariat footwear.

We are located at 120 E Main St. downtown Atlanta, TX.

We also do in house embroidery ranging in price from $5-$20 per item and only a $2 fee for each item not from Terri’s Treasures!

Boots & Bells An Olde West Christmas By

T

he City of Mount Pleasant is proud to present a brand new Christmas celebration they call Boots & Bells: An Olde West Christmas. Mayor Tracy Craig says he and the City are thrilled to bring joy to the community this Christmas season.

The event begins November 12 with the tree-lighting ceremony.

The courthouse and downtown square will be decorated with more than one million lights for the event - truly a spectacle to behold. Nearby Caldwell Park will also be a prime feature at

DI DUNCAN

the celebration. The Mount Pleasant Utilities Billing Office, All of Noriega’s staff are home cabinetry and countertop experts.

Our goal is to assist you with ideas for your home cabinets. We will give you the finish or style that suits your home and preference.

City Hall, and Public Library will greet each visitor with Boots &

Bells themed Christmas trees decorated by local residents, and downtown businesses will have their own old west Christmas decorations on display.

“Downtown Mount Pleasant is one of our greatest assets, and this year the City has worked hard to make it shine for Christmas,” said Mayor Tracy Craig, Sr. “It has been a challenging year for everyone due to the pandemic, so we are excited to do our part to help bring joy to the community and increase shopping and dining traffic for our businesses citywide.”

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NOVEMBER 2020

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The kick-off ceremony will also feature a concert from the Mount Pleasant High School Jazz Band, and the MPHS strolling choir will perform throughout the evening.

Treats will be provided for all, and downtown businesses will have their own special offerings. Horse-drawn carriage rides will be available for a mere $25 from Thursday to Sunday after 6 p.m. Ride reservations must be booked ahead of time at mpcity. net.

Laura DeWoody, G.G. GIA Graduate Gemologist

The Boots & Bells event will run from November 12 to December 27 in downtown Mount Pleasant. “We are extremely pleased to be able to offer an enhanced city celebration with a unique theme that we can hang our hat on not only this year but expand upon in the years to come,” City Manager Ed Thatcher said of the event. “Mount Pleasant has the potential to become a Texas Holiday Destination of which our citizens can enjoy and take pride in.”

Downtown Pittsburg

130 Quitman Street • Pittsburg, TX 75686

903-856-5915

NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2020

19

Home is where the Hope is

Bobby and Bobbie Delese, center front and back, are seen with members of the community, as well as women who are already being assisted at the new Hope Homes of Texas facility in Lone Star. The “Discipleship and Restoration Program” has been open just over a week and is located in the former Worship Center facility.

By

E

TONI WALKER

veryone falls down on their luck or makes poor choices from time to time. Sometimes, you just need someone to stand behind you, showing support and offering hope. That is exactly what Bobby and Bobbie Delese do at Hope Homes of Texas (HHT). Hope Homes of Texas in Lone Star aims to help get women who are down on their luck, or mired in drug addiction back on track.

Bobbie Delese has been taking in women for approximately 40 years. Whether it be due to drug addiction or other circumstances, Delese and her husband, also named Bobby, feel they have been called to be a light to women who feel there is nowhere to go. And they both are quick to say that they have been led to Lone Star to reach women.

The Deleses are assisted by Pastor David Bond, whom they met after doing ministry work in Naples. Bond and the Deleses

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NOVEMBER 2020

know that their location in Lone Star is not by accident, but rather by Divine appointment.

“Twenty-one days ago, this was just an idea,” said Bond. “We know this is where we are supposed to be. We were told when we signed the lease that, if it took off like we felt it would, at the end of the three-year lease, the building would be deeded to us.

God provided this property for us.”

That property is the former Worship Center in Lone Star. The Deleses and Bond, along with countless volunteers, have already begun renovating the facility from a house of worship to a house of hope, where they stress the “home” and “family.” And Bobbie is quick to stress that element of Hope Homes.

“This is a home, they are daughters,” said Bobbie Hope Homes of Texas uses a faith-based community atmosphere to help women seeking to get out of drug addiction or NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

off the streets. According to the Deleses, they will not turn any woman away. The main requirement is that they want to come and they are willing to abide by a few simple rules.

“We aren’t a rehab center or facility; we do not make anyone stay. They are free to leave at any time,” said the Deleses.

“We work with the women to bring them towards restoration through discipleship and Biblical principles,” said Bobbie.

The main theme of the home, according to Bobbie, is based on the Proverbs 31 woman. According to Bobbie, she works with the women through Bible study, prayer, and lessons to help heal their minds, bodies and spirits. That, in turn, helps them leave the lives of addiction or despair they may have been in. Bobbie uses ten basic principles, all based on the Proverbs 31 model, as the guidelines for the home.

Residents must sign off in agreement with these principles before they are allowed to stay. The principles stress love, trust, and accountability.

The home currently has the capability to house 12 women, and has housed up to six at one time in just the two weeks since it opened. Their plan is to be able to house many more, according to Bobbie.

The Home has been welcomed by city officials as a needed program. Mayor Randy Hodges verbalized his approval, saying it will help the city heal.

“In life, there is a lot of stress,” said Mayor Hodges. “This is a faith-based program to help relive that stress for the women who come. This program will help the community heal.”

NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

And community is not lost on the Deleses and Bond, who stress that the home is to designed to help build community, both inside the home and outside.

Lone Star Police Chief Steven Blythe also see the benefit to the city, acknowledging that it will also help the department with situations they may encounter.

“This is going to help tremendously,” Chief Blythe stated.

“When we are on a call, talking to a woman, we can tell them there are places they can go. This proves there are places they can go to get help.”

Chief Blythe added that they also have the option to assign woman who are sentenced to community service the option to do so at they home, where they would help with upkeep, cleaning, and similar activities.

Hope Homes of Texas is always in need of donations of any kind. Specifically, they are in need of bedding and household items. According to the Deleses, they are not in need of clothing currently. Hope Homes is a registered 501c3, so any donations are tax deductible. Though Hope Homes of Texas is a facility for women only, the Deleses look to eventually also have a similar facility for men in the area.

Hope Homes is open to any woman in the area, not just residents of Lone Star, and they are open 24 hours a day. The Deleses will even arrange to pick a woman up if the need is there. If you have questions, would like to volunteer, or know of someone who could benefit from Hope Homes, you can contact the Deleses at 214-549-8859 or 903-656-1817.

NOVEMBER 2020

21

Ted Thompson By

Ted Thompson & Ben Scharnberg inducted into the Hall of Honor TIM EMMONS

Ted Thompson, Atlanta High School graduate of 1971, and Ben Scharnberg, the winningest football coach in Atlanta school history, were both inducted into the 2020 East Texas Coaches Association (ETCA) Hall of Honor.

Ted Thompson Ted Thompson was a football star athlete for the Rabbits in the latter years of the ’60s and early ’70s.

He played both running back and linebacker for the Rabbs which earned him a chance to play college ball after he graduated in 1971.

Thompson attended SMU where he excelled in both football (three-year starter at the linebacker position) and baseball (lettered senior year).

He accrued accolades from high school to college which included being named football captain at SMU for the 1974 season.

After graduation, Thompson enjoyed a 10-year NFL playing career with the Houston Oilers (1975-84).

Thompson was described by Oilers’ Head Coach Bum Phillips as a player who could “take a lick and dish one out”.

With that durability, Thompson played in 146 of the 147 games for the Oilers in that 10-year span as a backup linebacker and special teams player.

In a 1980 game against the New York Jets, Thompson successfully converted four extra-point attempts as the emergency kicker.

In 1992, Thompson was hired to be a scout for the Green Bay Packers. Thompson worked for the Packers through the 1999 season when former Packers’ head coach Mike Holmgren recruited Thompson to join the Seattle Seahawks.

During Thompson’s time with the Packers as a scout, the Packers advanced to the playoffs six times, participated in two Super Bowls, and won Super Bowl XXXI. He was promoted in those eight years from a scout to assistant director of pro personnel to director of player personnel.

From 2000-2004 Thompson worked for the Seattle Seahawks as Vice President of Football Operations, where he worked alongside former Packers and Seahawks coach Mike Holmgren, who was Seattle’s GM at the time.

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Ben Scharnberg

During Thompson’s tenure in Seattle, the Seahawks advanced to the playoffs twice and eventually made it to the Super Bowl a year after he left due to the foundation Thompson had built while there.

In Jan. of 2005 Thompson was named Executive Vice President, General Manager and Director of the Green Bay Packers.

In 2007 Thompson was voted Sporting News NFL Executive of the Year and in 2018 the Packers announced that Thompson would be inducted into the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame.

In 2010 the Packers went on to defeat the Pittsburgh Steelers 31–25 to win Super Bowl XLV. Thompson retired in 2019 after a successful career in which his draft picks helped change both the Seahawks and Packers organizations.

Ben Scharnberg Ben Scharnberg made his way to Atlanta High School from Boling, which is southeast of Houston, in the spring of 1988.

In his first year as Athletic Director/Head Football Coach Scharnberg turned around a 1-9 program from the previous season and took the Rabbs to an 8-2 record.

Back then only one team went to the playoffs.

In his third season at the helm of the Rabbit Express Scharnberg led Atlanta into the playoffs for the first time since the 1983 season.

The very next year in 1990 the Rabbs went 10-0 and undefeated in district play for the first time since 1978.

In 1994 the Rabbits lost the first two games of the season and then reeled off 13 consecutive wins, which included the “Game of the Century” against Jefferson, en route to the school’s first state football appearance.

The Rabbs lost to a tough Sealy team in the 1994, 3A title game but did win it all in the 2003, 3A title game with a 34-0 win over Marlin.

In his Atlanta coaching career Scharnberg was 149-82-2 and overall was 172-90-3.

His honors and accolades are numerous and include being named District Coach of the Year 11 times, securing a State title, a State appearance, three Area championships, 14 District championships, 11 Bi-District championships and 17 years in the playoffs.

NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

As an AD he oversaw a program from one end of the spectrum to the other that sealed state championships ( five state track titles and one baseball state championship) and countless district championships (notably 24 consecutive championships in track and close to 20 consecutive in cross country).

Scharnberg’s 1990-1999 decade has been the most successful in school history as he compiled an 82-35-2 record.

He led the Rabbs to undefeated seasons in 1991 and 2001 which are two of the seven in AHS history.

After a long, successful 20 years Coach Scharnberg retired from coaching in 2007.

Scharnberg is currently the Asst. Principal at Hughes Springs High School.

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NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2020

23

Pineywoods Chapel and Trails Photo by

24

NOVEMBER 2020

KATE STOW

NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

When Sandy Price and Steve Gillespie reunited after 40 years, they never thought they would end up married. After all, they were just kids when they met at church camp in Wisconsin, and both had just come out of long-term marriages; his ended in divorce after 36 years, and she had just lost her husband of 31 years.

But Sandy’s Aunt Kay still attended the same church with Steve and in the spring of 2015, she casually mentioned to him that Sandy’s husband Gary had recently died. They began texting and then spoke every day for two months.

Before long, Gary wrote a letter to her grown daughters, Megan and Jessie, telling them he would like to court their mother. The courting began with him flying to Queen City to attend the Christmas program at the school where Sandy was the music teacher.

“I received a dozen roses at the school that day,” she recalled. “I had never received flowers on a program day before.”

As the courtship progressed, Steve found a job in Texarkana and moved there to make the courting a little easier. When it was apparent they were meant to be together, he proposed.

“We went to dinner at Ironwood Grill. He had his guitar and sang a song he wrote to me,” Sandy said. “Another couple was there celebrating their tenth anniversary. They paid our bill and left us a sweet note.”

In September of 2016, they were married in a small, intimate wedding in Wisconsin, as his mother was too frail to travel. In the past four years, the couple has accomplished quite a bit and are ready to share the fruits of their labor with others.

The couple began attending Moore’s Lane Baptist Church in

NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER 2020

25

The Chapel sits at the end of a trail, accessible by hay wagon.

The Chapel overlooks a small lake on the property.

The wood that constructed the chapel was hewn from lumber cut from trees on the property.

Photos by

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NOVEMBER 2020

KATE STOW

Texarkana together when Steve moved there. They both became active in a Celebrate Recovery program at the church.

“CR isn’t just about recovery from substance abuse or alcohol,” explained Steve. “It’s about recovering from anything that steals your joy – depression, grief, loss. It helped me deal with my divorce.”

In 2018 they attended the annual CR Summit in Saddleback, California and picked up a brochure for the Townsend Institute. Dr. John Townsend is a business consultant, leadership coach, psychologist and New York Times best selling author, as well as the founder of the Townsend Institute for Leadership and Counseling.

After studying the brochure and praying about it, Sandy and Steve decided to apply to the program together. They were accepted and began their online studies to receive their Masters level

NETX CROSSROADS MAGAZINE

Certificate in Advanced Counseling.

“It wasn’t easy. It took a lot of discipline and studying,” said Sandy. “After 25-30 hours of homework each week, we finished this year.”

They also finished construction on a chapel, nestled deep in the woods, looking out over the lake on their property just outside of Atlanta, off Highway 43 in the Bethsaida community. The planks used in the construction came from lumber Gary had cut from the trees on the property before he died.

“If we are going to live on this land, we will be good stewards and nurture it,” said Steve.

Steve is no stranger to being a good steward and helping others. His parents, John and Jan Gillespie, founded the Rawhide Boys Ranch in central Wisconsin, with partners Bart and Cherry Starr of Green Bay Packer fame. Over 35 years a total of 351 teenage boys lived with the Gillespies – 10 at a time for about a year each.

The Ranch is the subject of the book “Our 351 Sons” authored by them and available on Amazon.

Sandy spent many years as a stay-at-home mom until Gary gifted her with the opportunity to finish her college degree at the age of 37. She graduated at 40 with a bachelor of science degree in Elementary Education with a specialization in music. She was the music teacher at Queen City ISD for 20 years until recently retiring.

“I absolutely loved my job, and those kids,” she remarked.

The chapel they have built together has many purposes. One is for their new marriage counseling practice and they conduct

Celebrate Recovery meetings there. It’s also the perfect wedding venue.

“The red doors on the chapel signify the blood of Jesus and divine protection,” said Sandy. “It marks the chapel as a place for refuge, where all are welcome and safe.”

The building is small, and seats only 24 people, by design. The intimate setting is meant to be a spiritual and peaceful place.

Although the acoustics are superb, there is no sound system. The lighting is minimal – the multiple large windows let in just the right amount of light.

They hosted the first wedding there in May, and several have followed since. The wedding party gathers at the barn and they ride together on the hay wagon through the pasture, to the woods, ending in front of the quaint, peaceful structure.

From the chapel, you can see the lake, just down the hill.

Winding all throughout the property are walking trails. The trails were cut by locals Grady Epperson and Hunter Allday. One of the bigger trails that winds around the lake is named “Grady’s Walk” in honor of his dedicated work.

The chapel is available for small weddings, marriage vow renewals, small group gatherings, and prayer trail walks. The secluded setting is perfect for quiet meditation and prayer. For more information about the venue or marriage counseling, see the Pineywoods Chapel and Trails Facebook page.

“Sandy and I both have a desire to help couples build fulfilling marriages,” said Steve. “It is our hope that Pineywoods Chapel and Trails will minister to couples of all ages and stages of marriage.”

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NOVEMBER 2020

27

7.875” x 10.375” Color—Crossroads Magazine

You can’t see what cigarettes have done to your lungs.

We can.

CHRISTUS St. Michael Hospital - Atlanta offers low-dose CT lung screening for you before any symptoms show.

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Give yourself peace of mind, ask your health care provider to arrange a low-dose CT lung screening.

You may be a candidate for lung screening if: • You are a current or former smoker (those who have quit within the past 15 years)

• You are 55 to 77 years old

• You have a smoking history of at least 30-pack years • You have no history of lung cancer

LOW-DOSE CT LUNG SCREENING The power to save lives.

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For more information, call 903.614.7060.

Insurance and Medicare may cover screening and self-pay is available for $100.

At this time, only low-dose CT scans are recommended for lung screening. Chest X-Rays are not recommended.

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To healthcare heroes everywhere,

THANK YOU

We We thank thank the the many many healthcare healthcare heroes heroes who who leave leave their their homes homes and and families families every every day day to to serve serve others others during during this this time time of of great great need. need. We We are are proud proud to to be be among among them, them, standing standing strong strong for for our our community. community.

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