ETX VIEW YOUR VIEW OF EAST TEXAS NIGHTLIFE EDITION
September/October 2022 | etxview.com2 With a nationally recognized Heart and Vascular Institute, a certified Stroke and Chest Pain Center, and an innovative Vein Center, its easy to see why people choose Longview Regional. MyLongviewHeart.com • 903-225-8955 so I could watch my grandchildren grow up. Longview Regional –Donna G. l Cardiac Catheterization I CHOSE If you are experiencing the symptoms of a heart attack, call 911 and get to the nearest emergency room.
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September/October 2022 | etxview.com4 Dear Readers, Ilike to call myself a social homebody. If I had it my way, I might never leave my house. Kidding. Sort of. Home is one of my favorite places to be, but I must admit I do love people. Even though I act as if I’m the most introverted introvert to ever live, I have an inner extrovert buried deep, deep down there. I enjoy spending time with those I love and meeting new people during my work adventures. I like to be social with friends and make new ones, too. That being said, I don’t care who you are or how much I love you, I’m not staying out late. I’ll hang out with you for a bit, but you can bet your bottom dollar I’m gonna be home with my fur babies by 9 – or earlier. So whenever I started to plan stories for this “Nightlife” edition of ETX View, I was pretty intimated. My most exciting nights are going out with my fiancé for margaritas and queso. Sometimes we’ll even get crazy and go to Target. Those things are great and all, but they certainly don’t lend themselves to discovering the nightlife scene in East Texas. How in the world will I find these types of stories? Determined to find an answer, I thought, thought, and thought some more. I sat in my office with our advertising director Alyssa Purselley-Hankins brainstorming. What do East Texans like to spend their nights doing this time of year? Maybe watch our favorite football team in the living room or eat dinner at the same ole places we always do. But what about whenever we want to go beyond that and have something other than a typical night? We found an answer, and beginning on Page 8 our feature will show you experiences that are anything but ordinary – right here in East Texas. Britt Davis will take you on a world tour with his variety of wines as he shares his adventures from across the world. The Kilgore wine spot is a perfect place for a date or night out with friends. We also came across two businesswomen who offer amazing experiences for all ages. Turn to Page 14 to see the dreamy and larger-than-life services Luxx Overnight and AfterGlow Screens each offer. The rest of the stories in this issue are far from boring. In our visual section, you’ll meet a couple who restored a beautiful historic Tyler house into a bed and breakfast. Interesting enough, right? No, there’s more. Start on Page 24 to read about a fascinating discovery uncovered during renovations.Itwouldn’t be fall without high school football. One person you will always find under the Friday night lights supporting our local teams is Kilgore’s Travis Martin, Page 32.This is only a small preview of goodness within these pages. I didn’t realize how many cool things there are to do around here, and some might even convince me to get out of the house! Maybe. Enjoy reading, and make plans soon to do something extraordinary. EDITOR’SLETTERSantanaWood SANTANA WOOD swood@tylerpaper.com Make plans soon to do something extraordinary PRESIDENT Stephen McHaney PUBLISHER Justin Wilcox ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Alyssa903-596-6295Purselley-Hankins EDITOR Tim Thorsen ETX VIEW EDITOR Santana Wood DESIGNER Ted Townsend WRITERS Steven Dickey Arnold Ana AnneMaleriPriyaConejoLealMcHamOdendhalJessicaPayneOscarSaraviaSantanaWood PHOTOGRAPHERS Michael Cavazos Ana Conejo Les JessicaHassellPayne THE COVER Britt Davis pours a glass of wine at his business, which takes customers on a worldly journey. COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY Les Hassell COVER DESIGN BY Ted Townsend © 2022, M. ROBERTS MEDIA 100 E. Ferguson, Suite 501, Tyler, TX 75702 ETX VIEW MAGAZINE
5etxview.com | September/October 2022 Photography may include models or actors and may not represent actual patients. Baylor Scott & White Texas Spine & Joint Hospital - Tyler complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Baylor Scott & White Texas Spine & Joint Hospital - Tyler is a facility in which physicians have an ownership or investment interest. The list of physician owners or investors is available to you upon request. Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers. ©2022 Baylor Scott & White Health. BSWTSJH_2_2022 ORM. Take control of your pain today. Get fast, effective care for orthopedic and minor medical issues with board-certified specialists and onsite imaging. Tell us about your pain and start your conversation with a musculoskeletal provider. Call now to find out how we can help you get back in the saddle. 903.525.3300 www.tsjh.org 1814 Roseland Blvd Ste 100 | Tyler, TX 75701 Get back in the saddle.
September/October 2022 | etxview.com6 8 56 809242 8 Escape the Ordinary East Texas offers unique experiences 24 Mystery CompanyLoves Discovery uncovered at Tyler B&B 32 Kilgore’s Biggest Fan Travis Martin supports athletes, community 38 Overcoming Pitfalls Bullard native creates music, barbecue festival 42 A Trip to Houston Natives share all the best spots to visit 56 Take a Paws Cats bring new element to Longview yoga studio 64 Peters Fashion Boutique clothes modeled at local taco shop 74 Lifelong Love for Cooking Longview woman shares favorite recipes 80 Singing the Blues Kilgore native mentored by genre legends 86 Live Music in East Texas No shortage of places for fun night 92 Calendar Events across East Texas this September and October CONTENTS
www.reedcpa.net • 903.757.4071 • 1223 Judson Rd. • Longview, TX Offering Vision, Expertise & Peace of Mind for BusinessesCorporations,&Families Since 1987 PERRY D. REED & COMPANY Certified Public Accountants • A Professional Corporation REED www.reedcpa.net • 903.757.4071 • 1223 Judson Rd. • Longview, TX Offering Vision, Expertise & Peace of Mind for BusinessesCorporations,&Families Since 1987 PERRY D. REED & COMPANY Certified Public Accountants • A Professional Corporation REED www.reedcpa.net • 903.757.4071 • 1223 Judson Rd. • Longview, TX Offering Vision, Expertise & Peace of Mind for BusinessesCorporations,&Families Since 1987 Certified Public Accountants • A Professional Corporation REED
September/October 2022 | etxview.com8 FEATURE
Hannah Pritchett of Luxx OvernightBritt Davis of Britt's Wine and Dine
April
STORY BY PRIYA LEAL AND SANTANA WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL CAVAZOS AND LES HASSELL
What if we told you that you can escape – right here at home in East Texas? We set out on a mission to find some of the coolest experiences our area has to offer – something that can take you on a unique journey, or something out of the box that is far more elevated than your average activity. In this feature, we lead you to worldly wine, an overnight oasis, a larger-than-life show and other experiences that will bring an exciting contrast to your typical lifestyle.
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9etxview.com | September/October 2022
| ON PG. 10 Cornelio of AfterGlow Screens Other experiences in East Texas
o you ever just want to get away? Pause reality and visit another world for a bit?
East Texas extraordinaryoffersexperiencesD
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Britt
Davis owner Britt's Wine and Dine
The low-key spot is located behind the historic Old Elder School and is part of owner Britt Davis’ grand plan to fully restore the property into a one-of-a-kind entertainment venue.The wine business offers wine and food from all over the globe, allowing East Texans to get a taste of worldly flavors they might not get to experience otherwise. Bringing that experience to East Texas is exactly what Davis set out to do when he started his company, first working out of his home and later expanding to the brick-andmortar location.
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Experience the world,one sip at a time WineBritt’s & Dine
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Don’t let the location fool you. Right off Highway 31 in Kilgore, you’ll find Britt’s Wine and Dine – and it’ll take you places far beyond East Texas.
Born near Napa Valley, California, Davis’ passion for wine and savory foods started early.Davis was just a freshman in college when he began his tour of the world. He traveled to six of the seven continents on a mission to taste wine and food from everywhere possible. While exploring just about every major wine region, Davis gained an extensive knowledge of different cultures, vineyards and winemakers.Luckilyfor wine and food lovers alike, Davis made Kilgore his home nearly 20 years ago and, after teaching at Kilgore College for 17 years, decided to open Britt’s Wine and Dine. It all started because of his everlasting passion for wine and desire to share its beauty with others.
“My theme was for people to come experience the world, one sip at a time,” DavisDavissaid.said his travels were “just part of a bug” he has, and that he loves exploring and experiencing new things. When he traveled, he would take cooking courses all over Europe and bring bottles of wine home. “Every region I’ve been to, I’ve brought something back,” Davis said. Now that he’d experienced so much, been to so many places, tasted countless amazing dishes and wines, he couldn’t keep it all to himself – he had to share it. And Kilgore was the perfect place to do it. At first, he just wanted to share his experiences with his friends. “I wanted them to taste not only wine I make, but wine from around the world,” Davis said. But soon, his friends told him he could make a business out of this.Healso launched his own line of wines. All but two of Britt’s Wines are made from Texas grapes. The wine connoisseur’s goal is to really teach people the marriage of food and wine. He wants people to feel comfortable learning about wine; many can be intimidated by all the different types or which ones pair well with which“Whatfoods.makes us unique is that we offer wines from a variety of countries and we teach you how to pair those,” Davis explained. “...
Britt’s &
Wine
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People can come right here and not have to travel far to experience good wine and fun andBritt’sfriends.”Wine and Dine hosts themed nights at least twice a week, such as a French or seafood night. Once a month they also offer a global wine tasting. You can also catch a trivia night, do some dancing, enjoy a weekend brunch and magic shows. In October, the winery will be part of Piney Woods Wine Festival in Lindale. More special dinners are planned for the fall and winter season. Check out brittswine.com for specific details.
13etxview.com | September/October 2022 REGISTRATIONISNOWOPENFORFALL2 FALL 2 COURSES BEGIN OCTOBER 17 (903)KILGORE.EDU983-8209
September/October 2022 | etxview.com14 achieve goal while bringing fun to area Pair of women
15etxview.com | September/October 2022 T wo East Texas women saw a need and fulfilled it. Hannah Pritchett, owner of Overnight,Luxxand April Cornelio, owner of AfterGlow Screens, recently launched their businesses, each with the same goal – create theovernightdisplaylarger-than-lifecantogether,twoanyactivitiestheirinenoughbothEastextraordinarysomethinginTexas.PritchettandCorneliofeltthereweren’tactivitiesthearea.Bothofbusinessesofferthatanyoneofagecanenjoy.Theoftencollaboratesothatclientsexperiencethemovieandthedreamybelltentatsametime. April Cornelio and Hannah Pritchett | CONT. ON PG. 16 License #27248 Gardner Electrical has proudly served the Kaufman County Area for over 31 years. As a family-owned Electrical Service Provider, we are proud of the reputation we’ve earned for quality Electrical Service, dependability, and customer service. gardner-electrical.comCell:214-908-5829 Commercial & Residential Licensed Electrician Services Call us 214-799-7721today!need a ELECTRICALprofessionalCONTRACTOR WHY CHOOSE US Fully licensed & insured 100% guarantee on all work Continued Competitivesupportpricing & free Highlyestimatesskilled electricians with decades of A+experienceratingwith the BBB Local & family owned business $50 off your servicenextcall.Expires5-20-22 need a ELECTRICALprofessionalCONTRACTOR WHY CHOOSE US Fully licensed & insured 100% guarantee on all work Continued support Competitive pricing & free estimates Highly skilled electricians with decades of experience A+ rating with the BBB Local & family owned business Gardner Electrical has proudly served the East Texas area for over 30 years. As a family-owned Electrical Service Provider, we are proud of the reputation we’ve earned for quality Electrical Service, dependability, and customer service. Commercial & Residential Licensed Electrician gardner-electrical.comServicesCell:903-991-4200License#27248 903-991-4200
Luxx Overnight
BOasisLuxurious
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ullard resident Hannah Pritchett said the East Texas area was lacking in unique experiences, so she decided to do something about it by starting her ownShebusiness.andher husband Wyatt co-own Luxx Overnight, which serves all of East Texas and offers an overnight glamorous camping experience in your very own backyard. The Pritchetts can also set up their luxurious tent at a state park or local lake. “In East Texas there's really not a lot of fun things to do around here, other than go to the movies or go eat,” Hannah said. “... So we created this in hopes that it would give everyone of all age ranges something to do, and they could have it come to their backyard as well instead of having to travel.”
The roomy bell tent transports you into an inviting oasis as soon as you enter. Luxx Overnight creates a beautiful environment inside the tent with colorful printed rugs, cozy pillows and fluffy bedding, table seating and even heat or air conditioning depending on the season. On a nightstand, you’ll see little details like a vase of
September/October 2022 | etxview.com18 Luxx Overnight pampas grass or greenery and votive candle lighting. A tray on the bed with bottled water, fragrant room spray, and a personal note welcome you for the dreamy night ahead. Classic activities like board games, playing cards and tic-tac-toe or peg boards await on a sitting table draped in a homey tablecloth. Along with plenty of extra pillows, a wicker basket filled with snuggly blankets ensures supreme comfort. These overnight stays are for all ages, as Luxx specializes in date nights, slumber parties, birthdays, anniversaries, girls or guys nights and more. Depending on the occasion, your tent may feature extra special touches, like votive candles arranged in the shape of a heart and fresh rose petals on the bed. While the Pritchetts can create an amazing romantic getaway, they can also turn the tent into a kids paradise. Multiple twin beds and a full bed can fit inside the tent, covered in extra soft bedding and vibrant pillows in the shape of a star, rainbow or unicorn. A string of fairy lights around the inside perimeter of the tent make it feel even more cozy. Since it’s your home for the night, you’ll even have a welcome mat right outside the ‘door.’Abasic overnight package is $275 and gives clients everything they need. “We really care about bringing a unique experience to people to enjoy at an affordable price,” Hannah said. Luxx also offers add-ons like balloon arches, charcuterie spreads, a huge inflatable movie screen, a popcorn machine, private chef and more. They also offer day rentals for picnics, weddings, birthdays or other events. The hope is to provide a space for East Texans to create lifelong memories. “I know when I was younger I loved spending time with my family and my cousin, so I just hope that people are able to get closer with their family and friends doing something they’ll remember forever, and hopefully make this a once a year experience that they can do,” Hannah said. For more information, visit luxxovernight. com. | CONT. FROM PG. 17
Hannah and Wyatt Pritchett co-owners Luxx Overnight
19etxview.com | September/October 2022 30 2022 Charlene Ingram, Agent 801 Pine Tree Road Longview, TX 75604 Bus: Hablamoscharlene.ingram.pmjy@statefarm.com903-247-0393Español So put your Auto and Renters together with State Farm® and let the saving begin. GET TO A BETTER STATE.® CALL ME TODAY. And those savings could add up to $600.* Auto + Renters = Savings State Farm, Bloomington, IL savings based on a 2010 national survey of new policyholders who reported savings by switching to State Farm. charlene.ingram.pmjy@statefarm.com GET TO A STATE.BETTER® CALL TODAYME 1379Tyler,1910TYLERRoselandBlvdTX•903.533.0644LINDALEDavisMedicalGroupBradCircle•903-881-5165 EVERYTHINGINONEPLACE tylerinternalmedicine.com HOURS: Mon-Thurs: 8am – 5pm Friday: 8am – 12:00pm Sat-Sun: Closed LabsWellMammogramsWeightUltrasoundRadiologyLossWoman AND MORE Everyone wants to stay healthy—and getting a hearing checkup can help. Untreated hearing loss increases your risk of certain physical, mental and social health issues, influencing your overall well-being. But don’t trust your hearing system to just anyone. With more than half a century of combined audiological expertise and two decades serving East Texas, we don’t just turn up the volume—we tune into the brain. Because without logic, sound may just as well be silence. TYLER · (903) 592-3666 ATHENS · (903) 675-2222 LONGVIEW · (903) 230-8843www.soundlogicmd.com Linking mind to ear since 1998. SCHEDULEHEARYOURCOMPLIMENTARYHEARINGAIDEVALUATION TODAY.
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LargerViewthanLife
AfterGlow Screens is the ultimate outdoor movie experience in East Texas, perfect for movie nights in your own backyard, date nights, birthday parties, football games and more. Movie nights and game-day parties are fun, but watching them on a giant inflatable television screen is an extraordinaryAfterGlow’sexperience.mostpopular package is $165 and comes with the inflatable screen, projector, speaker, blankets and a Fire TV Stick with Netflix and Disney Plus. Colors of blankets and other decor can be customized based on the theme of your occasion. They also offer add ons such as a popcorn machine. The rental is set up in the afternoon, or a time that works best for the client, and is taken down the next morning. “We thought it would be really fun to bring something new to East Texas. … There's nothing similar to it and we wanted to stand out a little bit,” Owner April Cornelio said.
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AfterGlow Screens
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April Cornelio and Roman Cervantes of AfterGlow Screens set up an inflatable movie screen.
Cornelio and her boyfriend, who she runs AfterGlow screens with, initially bought the screen for personal use. “We usually go to drive-ins in Dallas, and we thought it’d be a really fun idea to actually bring it to your home, just something fun to do with your family with friends,” Cornelio said. Cornelio said AfterGlow Screens is unique in that it is something new for people in East Texas. The intimate setting creates a comfortable atmosphere. “It's something you can do in your own home in your own privacy and you don't have to be surrounded by hundreds of people,” Cornelio said.
AfterGlow Screens
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Cornelio said she caters to her clients and tries to please them in every way possible. “We want them to be able to be happy and come back and book with us again,” Cornelio said.Visit @afterglowscreens on Instagram for more information. FROM PG. 20
More Than Just a Lighting Store 2022 30 Other experiences in East Texas
Take the ride of a lifetime with Balloon Adventures USA in Longview. This is a full service hot air balloon company owned by the founder of the Great Texas Balloon Race himself, Dr. Bill Bussey. You can take a sunrise or sunset flight year-round for an unbelievable experience in the air. Flights can be about an hour to 90 minutes, and as you ride you’ll see breathtaking views of Longview and the area’s lakes, green pines and countryside. Flights cost $800 per couple, or $375 per person for three or more passengers, with children 10 years and under $175. More information available at balloonadventuresusa. com or by emailing balloonadventuresusa.com.info@Therearesomehopping local breweries, wineries and bars in East Texas, and they won’t disappoint. But for those who like a quieter atmosphere or want to have a low-key night, Books and Barrels in downtown Longview might be your place.
The bookshop and wine bar, at 206 N. Center Street, has a book to please just about anybody, with wine locally sourced from Enoch's Stomp and Los Pinos and beer from Martin House and Oil Horse. The shop has events year round and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Grab an appetizer and beverage at Nip It Golf while you practice your swing – away from the course. This indoor golf center, at 414 W Loop 281 Suite 8 in Longview, brings prestigious courses to you through five stateof-the-art simulators. It’s great for golf lovers, but it’s also a place for those who may be experiencing golf for the first time, or amateurs who just want to have a ball. It caters to all ages and skill levels and is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call 903-6530055 or visit nipitgolf.com. If you want to step up your average date night dinner, a cooking class might be the way to your lover’s heart. In The Kitchen With Celia with personal chef Celia Balko offers hands-on cooking classes along with private events and parties. Contact her at celiabalko@gmail.com, 903-5200288 or check out the business’ Facebook page. R&D Culinary is another option for classes, which offers at-home and in-shop classes. Visit their website at rdculinary.com or call 903-5306922. Both are sure to leave you feeling like a true chef.
23etxview.com | September/October 2022 thegalleryoflights.comGilmer903.295.9516Rd,Longview We completion.conceptwaylightwillthefromto
VISUAL Louis and Angel Sironen owners of The Wren in the Willows B&B.
MYSTERY LOVES COMPANY uncovered in 1920s home renovated into B&B STORY BY STEVEN DICKEY ARNOLD PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL CAVAZOS | CONT. ON PG. 26
September/October 2022 | etxview.com26
Louis and Angel Sironen are living their dream as proprietors of their Tyler bed and breakfast The Wren in the
hostedchainstheservescraftsman-stylerestored,thedistrictbetweenConvenientlyWillows.locatedthehospitalanddowntown,beautifullytwo-storyhouseasanoasisinworldofhotelandowner-Airbnbs.
“We have lovingly restored the home. It has five imaginative and comfortable literary-themed rooms and a large amount of social space to include a double living area, dining room and full kitchen,” Louis said. Along with its beauty, there is also a “thought-provoking house mystery.” The Sironens created a game of escape room-styled clues to engage their guests, in an effort to share some history about the house and lead them to a mysterious privateConstructedarea. in 1920 by lumber yard owner George G. Brazelton, the house plans included an unusual feature not found in many Texas homes – a basement. Previously unknown to him, Louis discovered the basement while remodeling the floors on the first level. In the midst of construction rubble and debris, he spotted a secret bookcase door that opens slowly and silently to reveal a narrow, dark opening. Then it’s down a steep staircase into the unusual yet alluringTakingspace.inthe implications of his uncovered gem, Louis thought about what the basement once was and what it could become. Given the politics of the time, it was a possible rendezvous location for folks wanting to have an illicit cocktail, talk politics or sell some lumber and nails. Speakeasies were widespread in the United States during the Prohibition Era, and Tyler was no different. In the years since under different ownership, the subterranean room could’ve been used as a wine or root FROM PG. 24
Angel Sironen shows off the hidden passage to the house mystery.
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27etxview.com | September/October 2022 cellar, storage area, or workroom. Louis and Angel decided to have fun with the space and go with a speakeasy theme – a nod to the home’sToday,history.theterm “speakeasy” is generally associated with the roaring twenties, ragtime, jitterbug and jazz rather than a dimly lit place for quiet, forbidden activities. Since the 1920 U.S. prohibition of alcohol, there were always private clubs, gin mills, hidden rooms, bootleggers and moonshiners eager to fill the gap between the law and the general public’s passionate desire to imbibe in adult beverages. Many attempts to circumvent the statutes were tried, including gimmicks like charging admission to see a blind pig, then offering a “gift” of a glass of wine or other adult beverage on the house.
Speakeasies got their name due to patrons speaking quietly inside the bars in attempts to stay hidden from police. But these bars were no secret to local law enforcement at the time, said former Smith County Sheriff’s Deputy and retired West Lake Hills Chief of Police Cliff Spratlan. “When I was a deputy there, I heard all sorts of old tales,” Spratlan recalled. “Stories of Camp Fannin’s ‘90-day wonders’ coming into town looking for some action off of the camp’s grounds. Houses of ill repute mingled in with speakeasy or clubs in north Tyler along the railroad tracks toward the camp.” During his time at the department, |
“We have a heart for people. I have the gift of hospitality… The most important thing that we do is just provide a healthy, safe, beautiful environment for family and friends to join together or for people to stay and meet new friends.”
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there were several clubs known to be operating illicitly. “Occasionally we would run ‘raids’ on the clubs,” Spratlan said. The Wren in the Willows’ special, private room has all the makings of a successful speakeasy. The Sironens have added poker tables, chairs, barstools, two well-stocked bars, a dart board and low lighting. The room has the feeling of a cavern, but without the stalagmites and stalactites.Recentguests Kylie and Briar Rose were lucky enough to receive a tour of the charming but well-concealed underground spot. “It felt shut in, and that is exactly what I imagined an actual speakeasy would have been like, because they were trying not to draw attention.” Kylie said. The Roses were pleasantly surprised when they arrived at The Wren. “The online pictures do not do justice to just how beautiful the house is in person,” Kylie said. During their move from military life in Virginia to San Antonio, they were excited to spend their nights in bed and breakfasts along the journey. With their daughter safely stowed at Grandma’s, they hoped to find some private time together before getting into their new routines in Texas. “It was the best place we stayed in, on the whole road trip,” Briar said. Louis and Angel both spent time growing up in Tyler. Angel’s brother and Louis were best friends, however, the Sironens’ first date wasn’t until college. They married and headed west to the Dallas-Fort Worth area for 25 years of big city living.After traveling and staying in bed and breakfasts of every kind, the couple felt a calling to build and operate their own personal version, with all the best features they had experienced over the years.
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Angel & Louis Sironen
29etxview.com | September/October 2022
Louis and Angel Sironen
September/October 2022 | etxview.com30 JEWELRY REPAIR WeBroken/UnwantedSterlingGold/SilverDentalDiamondsSilverGoldBuy:GoldCoinsFlatware Jewelry OPEN MON. - FRI. 9AM - 6PM SAT.: 9AMwww.TheGoldBuyerTyler.com4PM 50 WeBroken/UnwantedSterlingGold/SilverDentalDiamondsSilverGoldBuy:GoldCoinsFlatware Jewelry OPEN MON. - FRI. 9AM - 6PM SAT.: 9AM3717www.TheGoldBuyerTyler.com4PMTROUPHWY•TYLER,TX 50 WeBroken/UnwantedSterlingGold/SilverDentalDiamondsSilverGoldBuy:GoldCoinsFlatware Jewelry OPEN MON. - FRI. 9AM - 6PM SAT.: 9AM3717www.TheGoldBuyerTyler.com4PMTROUPHWY•TYLER,TXWeBroken/UnwantedSterlingGold/SilverDentalDiamondsSilverGoldBuy:GoldCoinsFlatware Jewelry OPEN MON. - FRI. 9AM - 6PM SAT.: 9AMwww.TheGoldBuyerTyler.com4PM 50 WeBroken/UnwantedSterlingGold/SilverDentalDiamondsSilverGoldBuy:GoldCoinsFlatware Jewelry OPEN MON. - FRI. 9AM - 6PM SAT.: 9AM3717www.TheGoldBuyerTyler.com4PMTROUPHWY•TYLER,TXWeBroken/UnwantedSterlingGold/SilverDentalDiamondsSilverGoldBuy:GoldCoinsFlatware Jewelry OPEN MON. - FRI. 9AM - 6PM SAT.: 9AM3717www.TheGoldBuyerTyler.com4PMTROUPHWY•TYLER,TXWeBroken/UnwantedSterlingGold/SilverDentalDiamondsSilverGoldBuy:GoldCoinsFlatware Jewelry OPEN MON. - FRI. 9AM - 6PM SAT.: 9AM3717www.TheGoldBuyerTyler.com4PMTROUPHWY•TYLER,TXWeBroken/UnwantedSterlingGold/SilverDentalDiamondsSilverGoldBuy:GoldCoinsFlatware Jewelry OPEN MON. - FRI. 9AM - 6PM SAT.: 9AM3717www.TheGoldBuyerTyler.com4PMTROUPHWY•TYLER,TX Broken/UnwantedSterlingGold/SilverDentalRolexDiamondsSilverGoldWatchesGoldCoinsFlatware Jewelry “It was one of those pipe dreams you just talk about,” Louis said. The couple selected an old, dilapidated two-story fixer with lots of “potential.” The renovations required to get their new venture up and running were extensive. Wiring, plumbing, light fixtures and flooring had to be ripped out and fully replaced. The kitchen received a sorely needed update. Outstanding antique furnishings share space with whimsical appointments in keeping with each room’s theme. Their five bedroom themes are: The Great Gatsby, Alice In Wonderland, The Little Prince, 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea and Around The World In 90 Days.“We love the old, but we didn’t want stuffy. We wanted to kind of ‘move’ the modern in, then together we came up with the idea of doing books,” Louis said. The Sironens replaced televisions in the house with 100-plus games and public areas designated for guests to participate in games, conversation and music. “Renting out individual rooms, the magic that can happen between these different couples that have never met before, spending time together, just developing a friendship. It’s magical to me. That’s my favorite thing about having a bed and breakfast,” Angel said. Louis and Angel receive rave reviews about their historic wonderland and invite anyone to book a stay. “We have a heart for people. I have the gift of hospitality,” Angel said. “… The most important thing that we do is just provide a healthy, safe, beautiful environment for family and friends to join together or for people to stay and meet new friends.”Withsecret’s aplenty, it’s no mystery why the Sironens and The Wren in the Willows are getting noticed. | CONT. FROM PG. 28
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Kilgore’sResidentdevotestimetocommunity&servicetoyouth | CONT. ON PG. 34
His is
name
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Travis Martin
Michael Wood, Kilgore ISD Athletic Director and Travis Martin.
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Martin’s compassion and work ethic have earned the respect of Kilgore’s BY OSCAR SARAVIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY LES HASSELL
Just about everybody in Kilgore knows his name. He doesn’t miss a game, always supporting local sports and youth.The city’s mayor even calls him the glue of the community. His name is Travis Martin –Kilgore’s biggest fan. Martin has supported the city with his acts of service for nearly 30 years. He is always looking out for the well-being of the community and its people, and never hesitates to put his interests aside for the good of theIfwhole.thereis one thing that defines Martin, it’s his passion for sports, especially football, which has given him so much throughout his life.
The Overton native fell in love with the sport after playing it during his high school days at West Rusk High School. He was a versatile player whose favorite positions were the ones along the offensive line. Martin said his former high school coach was a paternal figure, cultivating a family environment between the two of them. He said he still considers the coach’s sons and daughters as his siblings. And after living and breathing football for the past 64 years, he said he is nowhere near finished with the sport. Martin is currently the longest active-serving member of the Kilgore High School Football Booster Club. He is also very active in organizations at Kilgore College. “I feel really blessed to have been accepted into this program,” Martin said. “I often say to myself that I’m too dumb to coach and too old to play, so helping the program in the booster club just means a lot to me.”
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| CONT. FROM PG. 33 | CONT. ON PG. 36 . . . after living and KilgoreorganizationsveryClub.FootballHighofservinglongestissport.finishednowherehepastfootballbreathingforthe64years,saidheisnearwiththeMartincurrentlytheactive-membertheKilgoreSchoolBoosterHeisalsoactiveinatCollege.
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“Travis is not a person of many words but when he says something, people listen because it’s going to be important and worthwhile,” Spradlin said. “He has the pulse of the community and if there is something that is good for the youth of the community, he is going to be part of Martinit.”said he will keep helping the community as long as he’s able. His next move is to start working on the merchandise of what he calls his favorite time of the year: football season.“When football starts, that’s when I start,” Martin said. “I’m ready to go.”If you’re under the Friday night lights this fall in Kilgore, you’re sure to see Martin cheering on his favorite players. “When football starts, that’s when I start . . . I’m ready to go.”
Spradlin recalls a time when he joined Martin in feeding local middle school students. Spradlin said he was astonished to see Martin’s devotion of cooking over 900 hot dogs and 350 hamburgers on a day where the temperature was above 100 degrees.
“Travis Martin is a person I can never say no to when he asks me for help. He is one of the most selfless people in our community,” Spradlin said. “If he is involved with anything, you can rest assured it is a very worthwhile cause.”
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The work Martin has put in to help the Kilgore community was rewarded in 2009 when he was named Citizen of the Year. Mayor Ronnie Spradlin said to qualify for this award, a person must be actively helping, volunteering and exerting a positive influence in the community.
The club's slogan, “to serve,” aligns with Martin’s values of being a difference-maker in the community.
coaches and other staff members inside the high school’s football program. No matter what, Martin has always been there to support the football program and its members.
When asked what it means for a small town like Kilgore to have an individual like Martin, Spardlin said he is the bond that brings the community together.
Spradlin also said a lot of people get the award nearing retirement, but Martin was an exception based on his exceptional work in the city.
Travis Martin
“Travis means so much to our program that we see him not only as a friend but also as a mentor and role model for our kids,” said Michael Wood, Kilgore ISD Athletic Director.Wood said Martin has been one of the masterminds behind the creation of the school’s booster club, which has never been about raising money, but a vehicle for the community to support the athletic program and enjoy memorable moments along with the players.
“In my mind when I try to join something, it is to make a difference,” Martin said. “I’m not a complainer or backseat driver; if I’m coming, it is because I can help.”
Martin is also a member and outgoing president of The Lions Club, a nationwide organization focused on helping those in need.
When asked about his values, he replied with just one word: God. “I was raised by two great parents but ultimately God knew my desires and he put me where I am today,” he said. “It really makes my heart feel good to know God is with me helping make a difference in someone's life.”
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Kilgore’s
Among the many contributions he has made for the city, Martin has always focused on helping the youth, as he believes they’re the future of the“Therecommunity.isnever a kid that needs something if Travis finds out,” Wood said. “He always makes sure the kids have what they need, whether it’s education, clothes or food.”
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COMMUNITY LEADER Chase Colston Doubletap Entertainment co-founder
Apassion for music and barbecue inspired two lifelong friends to create a music festival for Texans. The creation of the Troubadour Festival, a new Texas music and barbecue event coming to Tyler in September, was “a big leap of faith from two best friends who have known each other for over 30 years,” said Chase Colston, who co-founded Double Tap Entertainment with his childhood best friend Cody Johnson.BothBullard natives, Colston and Johnson launched the family-owned business in May 2021. Less than six months later, their new company held its first Troubadour Festival in Celina, which sold out with a crowd of about 8,000.Colston, who originally founded the Red Dirt BBQ and Music Festival in Tyler, has overcome a lot of challenges in his career to land at the place he is now. After being laid off from his event managing job in Tyler due to the pandemic, Colston’s career was at a standstill. In 2019, he led an unparalleled year for events and made the most money he ever had. His name and Red Dirt Country had become synonymous. Along came 2020, and he was ready to do it all again. “And it just came to a screeching halt,” he said. Colston was unemployed for 18 months. He wanted nothing more than to work.
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Bullard native creates traveling Texas music and barbecue festival after career setbacks
the challenges of unemployment and the pandemic, Colston and Johnson were determined to leave an impact on the music scene in Texas. So they came up with an idea to do just that – the Troubadour Festival.
For
“Being able to announce that we were coming home was really cool,” he said. “ … We were born and raised here,” but Tyler won’t feel like home again until his festival hits the brick streets. When the concert comes to Tyler on Sept. 10, it’ll be three years, four months and six days since Colston last held an event in Tyler. The Troubadour Festival’s Tyler event will feature headlining performer Gary Allan along with Flatland Cavalry, Mike Ryan, The Steel Woods, Chris Colston, Joint Custody and Holly Beth. It will also feature 41 Texas barbecue restaurants. Through it all, Colston’s loyalty has remained true to providing Texans with some of the best country music and barbecue the state has to offer. With hard work and resilience, he plans to continue that through his company for years to come. Colston said he “can't imagine doing anything else now.” As Double Tap Entertainment and the Troubadour Festival grows, Colston and Johnson have plans to do more events around the state. “Ideas come up all the time,” Colston said. “We've been fortunate to grow the name and the brand pretty quickly where we've even heard from other cities in Texas that want us to bring something there, whether it's barbecue related or not.”
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Photo courtesy of Chase Colston “I was one of hundreds of thousands of people in live events who had no prospects,” he said, reflecting on the effects of the pandemic. “We had no jobs and had no money. While I was furloughed, I applied for over 175 jobs and didn't get a call back fromDespiteone.”
But first, he is looking forward to the feeling of homecoming he expects to hit him about the time he’s on the stage in downtown Tyler announcing the headliner.Therewere certainly bumps in the road, but everything “came out well in the end,” he said. “We're still new. We're still learning. We're still getting our name out there as best we can, but that's the fun part of it.” more information about the Troubadour Festival, visit www.troubadourfestival.com. PG.
“Our goal with Troubadour Festival is to really kind of be the focal brand of Texas barbecue and Texas Music around the state,” he said. Last November, the inaugural Troubadour Festival was held in Celina. This year, the Troubadour Festival has three Texas stops including Georgetown, Celina and, to Colston the most special stop of them all, his hometown of Tyler. There will be 120 combined restaurants and potentially more than 18,000 people in attendance with all the events combined.
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41etxview.com | September/October 2022 INSTANTISSUE! Longview Lobos Tyler Legacy Red Raiders Pine Tree Pirates Tyler Lions Spring HIll Panthers The Brook Hill School Guard St. Mary’s Knights Bishop T.K. Gorman Crusaders All Saints Episcopal TrojansGrace Community CougarsChristian Heritage Sentinels Trinity School of Texas Titans Stop by any TB&T branch location to pick up your personal FAN card TODAY! Texas Bank and Trust will make a $4 contribution to your school for every new card sold. LeTourneau University Yellow Jackets Tyler Junior College Apaches
FEATURE PRESENTED BY HoustonspotstheshareNativesallbestinA VISIT H-TOWNTO | CONT. ON PG. 44 STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANA CONEJO AND JESSICA PAYNE TRAVEL
September/October 2022 | etxview.com44 FEATURE PRESENTED BY | CONT. ON PG. 46 Atrip to Houston promises experiences unique to the city. Often referred to as a “melting pot,” the city screams culture and diversity in its activities, food, music, culture and Exploringpeople.thespace city, you’ll see some iconic sights that let you know you’re in Houston, like colorful graffiti walls or talented street performers. You’ll most likely spot a slab car –“slow, low, and banging” custom vehicles that originated in Houston with their iconic elbow wheels.Some hidden and others not so much, H-town is full of gems that are appreciated by those who live there and visitors alike. Written by two native Houstonians, this feature offers recommendations from locals to navigate you through all the parts of the city you won’t want to miss on your visit. | CONT. FROM PG. 43
Agora, a two-story care and coffee shop in Westheimer, is open til 2 a.m. and is a hidden spot where locals like to hang out with friends and talk on sofas for hours.
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The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum is another place you can visit only in Houston, as it’s the only museum of its kind in the United States. The museum honors African Americans who served in nearly every great AmericanHoustonwar.isknown for its culture, restaurants and diversity. But it PG. 44 PG. 51
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Another local favorite is The Color Factory, an interactive art museum that brings the colors of Houston alive with all five senses. The Color Factory team explored every nook and cranny of the city, walking over 444 miles and taking over 1,000 photos to bring Houston to life in an amazing way. Located in Upper Kirby, the museum invites visitors to experience the joy of color through interactive installations, immersive rooms, and carefully created moments inspired by the city.
Things to do There are so many things to do in Houston, you might not know where to start. These recommendations have something for everyone and provide plenty of options unique to Houston. Lucky Land makes visitors feel like they have traveled to another time and place, experiencing the history of ancient China. The beautiful grounds of this Houston-exclusive spot highlight Asian culture offering replicas of Terracotta warriors and the Great Wall of China, a Panda Village, Shaolin Kung Fu statues, a Lucky Village, and more. Visitors can also ride a rickshaw, take pictures in the 3D art gallery, and feed Koi fish. Lucky Land’s replicas of the Terracotta warriors are the largest collection outside of China. A visual wonder for the whole family, Lucky Land boasts rare and breathtaking architecture and gardens. Tour guides can be booked for larger groups providing guests with information and includes a dragon parade.
If you are looking for a little bit of history and heritage, you can’t pass up a visit to The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park. This spot offers a wealth of information through its historic tours and expansive museum. Tours include Historic Building Tour, Black History Tours, and Women’s History Tours. Visitors can also view the vibrant Mexican History Mural which celebrates the many contributions of the city’s MexicanAmerican community and see the oldest house ever built in Houston.
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A couple tips from locals who have learned their lesson, be careful about where you park. Be wary of parking anywhere your car could get towed and avoid parking scammers who are looking to take advantage of tourists. You’ll also want to check a bar’s dress code before heading out. Your safest bet is to avoid wearing tennis shoes and any ripped clothing.Midtown is good for those looking for a more low-key atmosphere, and there are also a variety of food trucks to choose from when looking to satisfy a latenight craving. Washington Avenue has a plethora of bars, all right next to each other so you can walk from one to the next. Main Street is also walkable, with its two-floor bars, aesthetically pleasing spots, ON PG. 52 FROM PG. 46
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FEATURE PRESENTED BY also offers an eclectic array of art. Visitors will want to check out Arts District Houston, home to 300-plus studio spaces for local artists, designers and makers to demonstrate firsthand how art is made. The district is situated along the Washington Avenue Corridor and touts the highest concentration of working artists in Texas. It’s filled with off-thebeaten-path public installations and experiences that will delight your eyes and rouse your curiosity. Spend your day with a whiskey tour at The Yellow Rose Distillery, the only legal distillery in Houston. Their whiskey starts in Texas soil with Texas grains grown by Texas farmers. The climate and growing conditions impart unique flavor qualities found only in Houston. Family-fun by day, adult hangout by night, Cidercade is a unique spot that will channel your competitive side and take you down memory lane with its 275 nostalgic games. This budgetfriendly arcade bar is open to families during the day, and changes to 21-plus at 8 p.m. The bar has 48 taps of different hard ciders, kombuchas, seltzers and smoothies. Nightlife With bars open til 2 a.m. playing songs that represent the best of Houston culture, you’re guaranteed to have a good night in any of the local hotspots like Midtown, downtown at Main Street, or Washington Avenue.
September/October 2022 | etxview.com52 street performers and food trucks. If you’re looking for a spot with a view, Sunset Houston is a rooftop lounge on Dallas Street with outstanding skyline views.
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Another cool place is Patterson Park Patio Bar, which is basically a tree house for adults with access to multiple food options. Maybe you want to go out but bars aren’t your vibe. Agora, a two-story care and coffee shop in Westheimer, is the place for you. It’s open til 2 a.m. and is a hidden spot where locals like to hang out with friends and talk on sofas for hours. You can enjoy a cup of coffee, glass of wine and delicious pastries while listening to jukebox tunes.
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Good eats Food is a necessity for survival for all of us, and the way to many of our hearts. But at the various eateries across Houston, there’s just something sprinkled in the food that creates a lasting memory and will have you craving it once you’re back in East Texas. An under-the-radar hidden spot, Space Village Cafe is a mustsee – and eat. The space-themed restaurant, owned by Houstonian hip-hop rapper Travis Scott, has a captivating atmosphere with background music from the popular artist. It’s all space everything; the theme carries from its hypnotizing floor to its menu items like sliders, pizza, wings and smoothies.Seafood lovers can’t pass up Lotus Seafood. One of the most popular items is the “fully loaded loud pack” which has shrimp, corn, boiled eggs, and potatoes on top of fried rice. Make sure you get some of the “crack sauce” to get the full experience and be ready for your tastebuds to go crazy. Worth waiting in line for, The Turkey Leg Hut is an absolute must. This black-owned business is unique to Houston and known for its stuffed turkey legs that fall off the bone. Shrimp alfredo, cajun crawfish mac and cheese, and dirty rice are just a few of the stuffing choices.Ifyou want to listen to live music while you take in a good meal, head to Sugar’s Cajun Cuisine and Bar in Missouri City. R&B, poetry and jazz performers provide entertainment on the weekends in the intimate dark atmosphere. Their all-you-can-eat crawfish or Sunday brunch are two options sure to please. PG. | CONT. ON PG. 55
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September/October 2022 | etxview.com54 H-town is full of gems that are appreciated by those who live there and visitors alike.
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FEATURE PRESENTED BY Looking for a spot to sit and eat during late night hours? The Denny’s or iHop for Houston, House of Pies is open 24/7 as a signature staple to H-Town with all sorts of food from breakfast, sandwiches, burgers – and most importantly, pies. Katz’ Deli, another restaurant that never closes, is a New York authentic deli with a variety of sandwiches, burgers, desserts and all-day breakfast. No visit to Houston would be complete without a stop at Niko Niko’s, so good it was even visited by Guy Fieri of “Diners, Drive-In, and Dives.” Check out their authentic Greek cuisines such as dolmathes, gyros plates, kreatopita, or the lamb fasolakia. The restaurant also offers American favorites such as burgers and Philly cheese steak sandwiches. Just be sure to leave room for one of their famousHopefullydesserts.this tour gave you a sense of Houston’s culture and history while providing a variety of options for daytime and nighttime activities and, of course, plenty of unforgettable restaurants. The best thing to do while you’re in Houston is take in the city’s beauty and enjoy each stop. PG. 52
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September/October 2022 | etxview.com56 WELLNESS Alexis Metz cat yoga instructor
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL
mindfulnessyogastudioLongview’scatclassespromote
TAKE A PAWS ODENDHAL CAVAZOS
September/October 2022 | etxview.com58 TAKE A PAWS Yoga is |combination.youtheyoumentalimprovedstress,yogayoupromoteonce-monthlyuniquehavestudio’sbutanythingnotmew,aLongviewcatyogaclassesbroughtsomethingtoEastTexas.TheFitnessCottage’sclassesallthethingshopetogainfrom–relaxation,lessandoverallphysicalandhealth.Onceaddacatortwoinmix,thestudiosayshavethepurrfectCONT.FROMPG.57 PLEASE CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT 800-678-9697 POSITIVEHAIR.COM • non-surgical hair replacement • laser hair restoration therapy • medically related hair loss • hair loss control and convention IT’S EASIER & MORE NATURAL THAN EVER! Our Passion is Hair! Eli Cook and Alexis Metz with her cats which she uses to lead a cat yoga class once a month at The Fitness Cottage in Longview.
Eli Cook, owner and chief lifestyle consultant of The Fitness Cottage, started his business in May 2020 and has been on a mission to change lives ever since.
The studio began offering its cat yoga classes when one of its instructors brought the novel idea to Cook. Alexis Metz, a certified personal trainer and yoga instructor, has three cats of her own and thought the felines could benefit the studio’s clients.Petting the fluffy creatures, letting them lie in your lap, and listening to them purr can do wonders to help people achieve their goals, she said. “Cats offer a splendid example for us on how to relax and focus on taking care of ourselves. It is important for everyone to stop, breathe and be able to rest. The presence of cats helps those who do yoga achieve a relaxation state of mind and body quicker and easier,” Metz said. Cook was totally on board with the idea and saw its potential. Since it launched, clients have enjoyed the new class. “It’s already been a big hit,” Metz said. Cook said his studio is unique in offering this in East Texas. “We are trendsetters in bringing people together and closer to nature by including animals. We aim to live in harmony with nature,” Metz said.Yoga is good for nurturing mindfulness, or being aware of how you feel emotionally and physically, Metz said. “It’s important to notice your breath, whether it is shallow or deeper. Sometimes we can go an entire day without realizing we have been tense throughout the day. Mindfulness is the act of actively focusing on how you feel and why,” Metz explained. Cats make great companions, and studies show they can bring humans many of the same
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September/October 2022 | etxview.com60 benefits as yoga, like less anxiety and stress and better sleep quality. People often utilize yoga as a way to escape from the chaos of life, and similarly, cats can help people cope with“Wechallenges.cangetso overwhelmed with everyday tasks. It is important to sit down and focus on one thing. In class, you are focusing on yourself, cats, your breath. … Anxiety is reduced, people become happier in how they feel and think,” Cook said. He said when a participant leaves the class, they’ll carry those good feelings with them throughout the day and gain a greater sense of wellbeing.The classes also attract cat lovers who have never tried yoga before, CookMetzsaid.added that some participants come to “get their ‘cat fix’” because they love cats, but live with someone who is allergic. Cat yoga classes are offered the last Saturday of every month from 9 to 10 a.m. Cook and Metz are looking to offer more cat yoga classes in the future.Cook was motivated to open a fitness and lifestyle business in East Texas to utilize his own life experiences and knowledge to help clients improve their lives. “I really like helping people and teaching them what I have learned about feeling better,” he said. The Fitness Cottage creates personalized plans to help anyone change their body through an overall wellness approach. Exercise includes cardio and strength training. Cook, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from UT Tyler, also offers individualized nutrition to maximize training efforts. He believes proper nutrition goes hand in hand with exercise to improve one’s appearance and overall health. Metz started working as a certified personal trainer in 2017 and enjoys training and yoga instruction at The Fitness Cottage. The cat lover’s three cats are the ones who assist her with the monthly classes. So if you love cats, yoga, both, or just want to de-stress in an atypical way, go ahead and pounce on The Fitness Cottage’s classes. Cook said they offer a complimentary cat yoga class. For more information, visit eliapproved.com or go to the studio at 1116 Judson Rd. in Longview. TAKE A PAWS | CONT. FROM PG. 59 Monday ~ Friday 8:30am - 5pm Saturday 8am - Noon 314 Magnolia Lane, Longview www.casafloraflowers.com 2022 30 903.753.4492
Alexis Metz
“Cats offer a splendid example for us on how to relax and focus on taking care of ourselves. It is important for everyone to stop, breathe and be able to rest. The presence of cats helps those who do yoga achieve a relaxation state of mind and body quicker and easier.”
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63etxview.com | September/October 2022 405 W LOOP 281, LONGVIEW, WWW.SHOPBARRONS.COMTX LIST LACY'S 3 1 Everyone’s fave pull-on 2 Blocked Abby Ankle 3 Lucy Boot 4 Marley Girlfriend Cuffed Jean 5 Gia Glider Skinny SHOP BARRON'S TUE-SAT | 903.663.206010-5 1 Denim for days! Try out Lacy’s absolute FAVORITE brand of denim: Liverpool Los Angeles. This season, anything goes; from skinny stretch to tailored bootcut Barron’s has it all! Shop in-store or online 2 4 follow us 405 W LOOP 281, LONGVIEW, WWW.SHOPBARRONS.COMTX LIST LACY'S 3 1 Everyone’s fave pull-on 2 Blocked Abby Ankle 3 Lucy Boot 4 Marley Girlfriend Cuffed Jean 5 Gia Glider Skinny SHOP BARRON'S TUE-SAT | 903.663.206010-5 5 1 Denim for days! Try out Lacy’s absolute FAVORITE brand of denim: Liverpool Los Angeles. This season, anything goes; from skinny stretch to tailored bootcut Barron’s has it all! Shop in-store or online 2 4 follow us
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65etxview.com | September/October 2022 FASHION PRESENTED BY FASHION Authentic taco shop with vintage flair perfect for a casual night Just because summer has come to a close doesn’t mean you have to stop wearing colorful clothes. Lively, vibrant fashion is fun to wear year-round. Turn to the next page to see some fashionable young adult clothing options modeled at a lively local restaurant – one you’ll definitely want to put on your must-try list. Doc’s Taco Shop is a great place to hang out with friends and family. STORY BY SANTANA WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY BY LES HASSELL | CONT. ON PG. 66
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It’s all about the atmosphere at Doc’s Taco Shop. Well, and the tacos – those are amazing, too. But the restaurant’s ambiance can’t be beaten. With colorful seating, vintage decor everywhere you turn, live music by local artists, and fresh authentic tacos served on paper plates, Doc’s has a vibe that is very casual and welcoming. It feels almost like home or walking into a friend’s backyard party. When you pull up to park your vehicle, you’re immediately drawn into the charming outdoor decor, among it is antique memorabilia such as a lifesize Betty Boop and a classic car. There are picnic tables and other outdoor seating options out front, and you can even play a couple rounds of cornhole while you wait for your food to be Justserved.inside, a host greets you and invites you out to the back patio which is even more mesmerizing. Vintage signs line the perimeter of the patio and string lighting drapes across the seating area. Everywhere you look, embossed tin signs or old gas station pumps take you on a tour through history. A 1920s-era soda advertisement for Grape Ola or various oil company signs are a few of the countless gems you’ll find. The restaurant really comes to life at night, as neon signs light up as the sun goesSomewhatdown. rusty with chipped paint, an old glider and other furniture tell the story of how loved it once was by the people who sat in it. Picnic tables and vintage chairs painted in bright colors are where you’ll sit to enjoy your food and drinks. There is plenty of space for a crowd, with seating in front of the restaurant and on a second level overlooking the patio area, which has numerous tables.While the adults enjoy a cold beverage and music, children can safely play in the fenced-in patio. When they 70 65
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FASHION PRESENTED BY take a break from running around, they can sit on Sinclair Oil’s famous green Dino or make calls in a classic phone booth.The restaurant, which is open from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, typically has live music by local artists every weekend on its wooden-deck stage right in the middle of the patio. This laid-back atmosphere makes Doc’s Taco Shop a great place to unwind and connect with friends and family. You or your children may even meet some new friends.That’s exactly how owner Lucia Ferguson envisioned her restaurant. She wanted customers to have a good time but feel welcome and relaxed as they enjoy their food. Born and raised in Tyler, Ferguson’s inspiration in part came from the camaraderie she felt when visiting Mexico, where both of her parents are from. She said at times the downtown plaza is filled with food trucks, artists playing live music, and people enjoying their time together. “I wanted to bring a little bit of that over here,” sheFerguson’ssaid.
first job was as a server at age 17. She began to love it so much that she started dreaming of owning a restaurant. When the building just off Interstate 20 became available, Ferguson bought it and started creating the undeniably unique atmosphere that is now Doc’s.Collecting antique memorabilia for the restaurant is something Ferguson will probably never stop doing –“it’s a hobby, or addiction you might say,” she said with a laugh. It started with just a few signs, but then the next thing you know, the restaurant is covered with them. Ferguson said she gathers the signs and other items by traveling around to auctions or antique shows. Of course Doc’s is a great place to hang out, but
71etxview.com | September/October 2022 903.758.3825 • 2324 B Judson Rd. Longview • thebrownduck.com Workwear|Casual|Scrubs|Footwear|Accessories
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Doc’s Taco Shop, 209 N. Access Rd. Kilgore, is an absolute must for East Texans to experience. Bring your kids, friends or just yourself and you’re sure to leave happy and full – in your heart and your belly.
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FASHION PRESENTED BY In each issue of ETX View, we are fortunate to have a number of supporters who help us bring our fashion shoot ideas to life. We had a vision to showcase a fun night out, and Doc’s Taco Shop was the perfect venue to bring that to life. Our amazing models Sophia Houck, Aubrey Saccoccio and MaKayla Police were so much fun and did a great job. Thank you to Ellie Bee’s for supplying their beautiful clothing.Thank you, as always, to Peters Chevrolet of Longview for sponsoring the bi-monthly fashion shoots. Visit Peters on social media at facebook. com/PetersLongview and Instagram @ peterslongview. Ellie Bee’s apparel Modeled by Aubrey Saccoccio: Bella+Canvas Cropped ‘Local’ Sweatshirt, $59 and Bucket List Long Puff Sleeve Dressy Printed Top, $59 Modeled by MaKayla Police: MUMU Mandi Butterfly Mini Dress, $168 and Daydreamer Guns & Roses Cards Tee, $74 Modeled by Sophia Houck: Sugar + L!PS Smocked Mini Dress, $85 and By Together Sweatshirt with Smiley Face, $115.
have we mentioned the food? Last but certainly not least, Doc’s has some of the best authentic tacos in East Texas. These are the type of tacos that will have you craving them for days after you leave the restaurant. Made fresh daily on a corn tortilla with cabbage, cilantro, diced onion and your choice of meat, either al pastor (pork), pollo (chicken), or bistek (beef). The restaurant says if you’ve ever had street tacos, “you’ve never had them this good.”
Celebrating Love, Celebrating Life Experience East Teexas in Style.
73etxview.com | September/October 2022 2002 Judson RD • 903-758-4367 • www.BartlettFineJewelry.com DiamondFire@Mail.com • Follow us on Facebook & Instagram FINE JEWELRY
JimJimBartlett
McClellanBarbara
Longtime
FOOD
Now 89 years old, the Longview resident has been writing for the local newspaper’s food section for more than 52 years. As a young girl, her love for newspapers was synonymous with her love for food. She remembers sitting at her father’s feet, listening to him read the daily newspapers aloud. Those are some of her fondest memories.Throughout her time growing up in Tyler, McClellan continued cultivating her cooking skills at home. After high school, she earned a music education degree at Baylor University and in 1967, she married her first, now late, husband and moved to Longview. Of course, she continued cooking and reading the paper. “We were both teachers and, though money was scarce, we still took two daily newspapers – morning and night. The newspaper from Houston had food columns in each paper, and I lived for those articles and recipes,” McClellan said. At the time, the Longview newspaper PG. 76 food columnist shares practical recipes with community Cooking
Barbara McClellan fell in love with food at 8 years old. Born in 1939, McClellan was just a girl when she started helping her mother in the kitchen after her father died. “That’s where my lifelong love for cooking began,” she said.
STORY BY ANNE ODENDHAL PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL CAVAZOS
Lifelong Love for
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didn’t have any sort of local food column. She said wire service recipes were published, but they often contained ingredients unfamiliar in East Texas. She spoke with the theneditor who asked her to start writing a column.Firstpublishing in 1970, McClellan’s early columns included “three easy, but good nutritious recipes,” she said. She feels it’s important to help people understand that they don’t have to have a bunch of fancy ingredients to have a delicious meal. And cooking doesn’t have to be all that complicated –just a handful of ingredients can come together to make something amazing.“Mymother was a superb cook, but not a ‘fancy’ cook,” McClellan wrote in a 2017 News-Journal column. “If herbs or spices were mentioned that she was not familiar with or that we did not have, she just omitted them. I think I did the same thing in my early days of cooking.” McClellan wanted to teach readers to actually enjoy cooking, since they have to do it anyway. Soon, seeing her byline was addictive. “People I knew in the community were impressed to see my name in the paper,” she said.
1 jar (24 ounces red pasta or pizza sauce ( I prefer tomato basil variety ) 1 jar 16 ounces Alfredo sauce 10 ounce can chicken broth Mix all ingredients, heat, (but do not boil) to serve. Garnish each serving with fresh basil, if Makesdesired.about 4-5 servings.
Over half a century later, McClellan is still writing food columns, which are published weekly in the Longview News-Journal’s Taste section and the Food page of her hometown paper, the Tyler Morning Telegraph. “I create my own recipes and use recipes from friends because they like their name in the paper too,” she said.She gets inspiration from a number of things, but she said the best place to get recipes is the beauty salon because women love sharing things. She’s published three cookbooks, “From My Kitchen,” “From My Kitchen, Too” and “From My Kitchen Once More.”
When she was a young bride, she had only three cookbooks. “Two were wedding gifts, and the other was a gift we were given when we opened a small savings account at a bank. Those books are still my favorites out of the hundreds I have or have had,” McClellan wrote in her column. She was married to her first husband, Kenneth Richardson, for 35 years before he died suddenly of a heart attack. She later remarried Joe McClellan and they have now been married 26 years. She is mother to four children and grandmother to three.
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QuickBasilTomatoSoup Lifelong Love Cookingfor ON PG. 78
2 pounds good grade bulk sausage (hot or medium) made into small balls about the size of a quarter, fried or cooked into microwave, drained Sauce: ½ cup catsup ½ cup red wine vinegar ½ cup brown sugar 2 tablespoons soy sauce ½ teaspoon ground ginger Combine all sauce ingredients and heat to simmering., Gently add sausage balls. Cover balls completely with sauce. Cool and refrigerate for at least 24 hours. These may be made ahead of time and frozen. Heat just before serving. Best served in a chafing dish to keep warm.Makes about 75-85 balls. Sweet and Sour Sausage Balls FROM PG. 75
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My Homemade Beef Vegetable Soup 2 pounds beef stew meat or a 2-pound chuck roast cut into bitesize pieces 1 large onion, finely chopped 2-3 ribs celery including tops, finelyBrownchoppedmeat in about 2 tablespoons oil. Add chopped onion and celery. Place in 8-quart pot. Simmer, covered, not boiling, in about 1 ½ quarts water, for 1-2 hours until meat is tender. Add 1/3 cup pearled barley 1 package (18 ounces) frozen mixed potatoes,Anyvegetablesotherrawvegetables,carrots,peas,beans you like.Cook for at least 30-40 minutes until vegetables are tender. I usually add any other leftover vegetables that I have collected in my “soup jar” in the freezer. Add 1 can (15 ounces) canned chopped tomatoes with juice Continue to simmer for 30 minutes.Addseasonings1½teaspoonssalt1teaspoonblackpepper, or to taste1teaspoon garlic powder 1 heaping tablespoon beef base or paste (Tones or “Better than Broth”)½teaspoon chili powder, if desiredIftoo thick, add water or tomato or vegetable juice, a cup at a time, until desired thickness. Makes 4-5 quarts and freezes very well. I recommend freezing in small containers, 4-5 servings each. She was a music teacher for many years, once owned and operated her own restaurant, has been involved with a number of choirs and community theater productions, has shared her cooking skills with adults and children by teaching countless classes, including one broadcast on cable, and a number of other things. Throughout her ventures, that undying love for food never left. “In her many years of teaching, she somehow found songs that involved food,” her cookbook website reads. “For example, she used a song called, ‘Snap, Crackle, Pop’ to teach music notes and rests. When each class learned the song to perfection, Barbara made Rice Krispie Treats for the class. Former students often tell Barbara … that they remember a song or two during their time in her music class – but most of all, they remember the Rice KrispieFeaturedTreats.”here are four recipes that are favorites of McClellan’s family and friends.“My Beef Vegetable Soup is our tradition at the first cold snap, and I often take the apple pie to potluck meals,” she said. The hearty soup is perfect for a cozy night at home during the fall, or anytime you’re craving something warm and filling. It isn’t hard to make, and the ingredients aren’t overwhelming. The same goes for her classic Quick Tomato Basil Soup. Sweet and Sour Sausage Balls are also a crowd pleaser. Her apple pie is made with Granny Smith apples and topped with a simple but oh so good streusel topping.“MyApple Pie was created as a healthier option, using apple juice and less sugar,” she said. Every Sunday night as she faithfully writes her column, McClellan tells herself it is time to quit. Then she sees someone in the community who reminds her how much they enjoy her column, and it keeps her going. Readers look forward to her columns the same way she used to live for newspaper recipes. McClellan still has that little girl in her, who fell in love with food and newspapers, and the two together. Her life has come full circle. Visit frommykitchencookbooks. com to order one of McClellan’s cookbooks, and read her columns weekly in the News-Journal and Morning Telegraph – until the day she finally retires!
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Lifelong Love Cookingfor
79etxview.com | September/October 2022 Easy Pie Crust 1 cup flour 3 tablespoons powdered sugar 6 ½ tablespoons butter, melted Mix flour and powdered sugar. Stir in melted butter, and pat into an 8” or 9” pie plate. Apple mixture 5-6 small to medium apples, I prefer Granny Smith apples) peeled, if desired-I leave peel on, and thinly sliced ½ to 2/3 cups refined sugar 6 ounces frozen apple juice concentrate½teaspoon cinnamon ¼ teaspoon nutmeg ¼ teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons flour Mix all dry ingredients and stir gently with apples. Place in pie plate top with streusel topping, or raw pie crust, bought or homemade. Streusel Topping 1 stick butter, melted slightly ½ cup brown sugar 1 cup flour Mix and crumble over apples. Bake at 350 degrees until golden brown.Makes 6-8 servings. My Apple Pie LONGVIEW | TYLER | KILGORE ETXVIEW SEE MORE ONLINE AT: ETXVIEW.COM TO ADVERTISE CALL 903.596.6295YOUR VIEW OF EAST TEXAS
CULTURE
Kilgore native living dream as a blues mentoredartist,bylegends
Ally Venable
A t 12 years old, Ally Venable couldn’t have dreamed what her life would be like now, more than a decade later. She had fallen in love with music and just learned to play guitar. Growing up in East Texas, she looked up to accomplished female artists like Carrie Underwood and Lindale-native Miranda Lambert. She started playing country music and performing live. Her sound changed and developed over time, but once she was introduced to the blues – she was hooked.
STORY BY SANTANA WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY BY LES HASSELL
It was Stevie Ray Vaughan’s music that really drew her into the genre. By the time she was 15, she was on her first tour, balancing school and growing as an artist. She graduated high school while she was playing shows, and shortly after that, she signed with a record label. Her momentum continued and at 19, she was touring across Europe – one of her favorite experiences of her career so far.
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etxview.com Ally withVenablementorBuddyGuy
“It’s a dream. Music is what I’ve always wanted to do,” she said. Being on the road so much can be taxing at times, but Venable is always thinking about the positives.
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Venable, now 23, was born and raised in the small town of Kilgore. Her first memories of music are singing in church as a little girl and learning to sing from her grandmother. The two would go on car rides and she would teach young Ally the first song she ever learned, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”
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“I feel like that’s what I was meant to do – play music in front of people,” she said. Her shows are all about giving her audience a good time. She wants to make their time at the show worthwhile, so she gives it her all every single time she steps onto a stage. Always playing guitar, Venable brings an electric energy to any venue and its crowd. friends. To get to work with somebody you look up to and now you’re in their world, it’s just awesome. I’m very grateful to have them in my corner,” she said. Although she’s touring around the world and has a large fanbase, Venable said her path to stardom is a work in progress. “I’m still working toward it,” she said, when asked how she feels about her career taking off. She credits her fans for helping her reach this point in her career. “I kept building and growing my fan base over the years, and I really appreciate them so much for supporting me and loving my music.” But the main thing? “I just kept going,” she said. The years and years of hard work, late nights and early mornings, back-to-back shows, living on the road, hours in the studio – it has been far from easy. Worth it? “BehindAbsolutely.the scenes, a lot of people don’t see all the She’s
Today she tours around the world as a blues artist, a genre that can be challenging for a woman to get into and see success. Her passion for the genre and dedication to her craft are what led her to where she is today. She’s also been mentored by some of the best in the business like Buddy Guy, Joe Banamassa, and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. She has also toured with Guy and“TheShepherd.camaraderie
andsomementoredbeenbyofthebestinthebusinesslikeBuddyGuy,JoeBanamassa,KennyWayneShepherd.ShehasalsotouredwithGuyandShepherd.
I have with a lot of the musicians in my genre has been surreal. I would’ve never expected to have my guitar heroes become my work that you have to do in order to make something happen for yourself. That’s with anything, not just music. Any goals you have or whatever your passion may be, you have to work at it and you have to keep going, even when things get tough,” Venable said. Doing what she loves every day by actively touring and writing and recording new music with blues legends is something Venable is so grateful for.
“We drive more than we play, but it’s so cool to be on the road. All the places I’ve seen and all the people I’ve met, it has opened my eyes to different perspectives,” she said. Touring keeps Venable very busy. A typical day in the life, “We show up to a show, load in, do a sound check, eat, play the show, talk to fans after the show, sign things for them and thank them for coming out, load out, go to the hotel, sleep for a couple hours –and do it again the next day.”
There are off days – sometimes – where she and the band will experience the city. The places Venable has been able to experience because of her music career have been amazing, she said. For Venable, the stage is where she feels most at home. That’s where she’s most comfortable.
Venable’s songs are passionate and personal, and she puts her heart and soul into every line. She has a way of drawing in a listener and taking them to another place – picturing a time in their life, an experience they’ve been through, or a dream they want to chase.
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Owner Jacqueline Henly first connected with Venable at Porch Fest in Kilgore years ago when she was still a teenager getting her start. Henly had an incredible intuition about Venable and her career, and the two began collaborating. Henly believes Venable’s career will go very far. “She has a natural ability to just sing with the voice of God,” Henly said. “I have a talent for being able to sense when someone has that ‘something’ – and she has it.” When she’s not being a rockstar, Venable’s life is Honey, called her the “future of blues and the crossover music of American roots-rock,” according to Venable’sVenable’swebsite.songs are passionate and personal, and she puts her heart and soul into every line. She has a way of drawing in a listener and taking them to another place – picturing a time in their life, an experience they’ve been through, or a dream they want to Whenchase.Venable writes a song, she looks to things going on in her life that others can relate to. “That’s ultimately why I write music – to take away someone’s problems, or let them know it’s OK to feel a certain way. We’re all human, we all go through things, we all make mistakes, so that’s where I go when I write a song, to things I’ve been through in my own life,” sheHersaid.work ethic comes from her parents, Jack and Cindy, who have always been great role models and much more slow-paced. She hangs out with her family and friends, and Kai, her Siberian Husky – “pretty normal stuff,” she said. But of course music is still part of her days. Under her label Ruf Records, she writes music and records in the studio a lot too. Recently, Venable has been flying back and forth from Texas to Nashville finishing up her new album, collaborating with other artists. “These songs I wrote with Tom Hambridge and Rich Fleming – they’ve written on numerous records for people like Billy Gibbons, Joe Bonamassa, Buddy Guy, a lot of really great artists. So going from writing my own songs to collaborating with other people who have been doing this for so long and have written for such amazing musicians, has been a really great experience for me,” she said. Mike Zito, producer of Venable’s album Texas supported her through it all. “They’re my cheerleaders, I’m so grateful for their support and happy to have them in my corner as well,” she said. Ally also has a close relationship with her younger brother Dylan. She owes the world to her father Jack, who took her to shows when she was still a teenager, drove her band all around until wee hours of the morning then went to his job hours later, and just about every and anything else he could do to be there for his daughter. He even took guitar lessons alongside her when she was 12 –“but I soon surpassed him,” Venable said with a laugh. Venable’s albums include No Glass Shoes (2016), Puppet Show (2018) and Texas Honey (2019), and a new one will be released soon. She’s currently on the road, with several shows in California and Canada over the next two months. For a full tour schedule, visit allyvenableband.com.
She is a Gibson Guitar artist as well as a BOSS and RolandVenable’sartist.stage presence is energetic, soulful and inspiring. She’s always dressed in mesmerizing attire, such as a sparkly dress, knee-high boots and beautiful jewelry. Her classic style comes from Everything That Blings, a vintage and clothing style shop in Kilgore.
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Ally Venable
STORY BY PRIYA LEAL AND SANTANA WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL CAVAZOS, ANA CONEJO AND LES HASSELL | CONT. ON PG. 88 Best places in East Texas It’s a Friday night. You’ve got nothing to do. The good news? You’re in East Texas, and there’s bound to be live music somewhere. And the tunes won’t disappoint. East Texas has bred many music stars, like Lindale’s Miranda Lambert, Jacksonville’s Lee Ann Womack and Neal McCoy, and most recently, “American Idol” finalist and Tyler’s own Fritz Hager III – to name a few. If you’re looking for a cool spot to hear live music and support local artists at the same time, you’re in luck. Check out some of our favorite places.
CULTURE The Back Porch Kilgore
Stanley’s Famous Pit Bar-B-Q, 525 S Beckham Ave., Tyler, holds multiple awards for its pit-smoked barbecue and as a music venue. The joint has music weekly, and features local, regional and nationally touring artists. Their outdoor patio is a casual spot to spend your weekend night, and their two full bars will ensure you’re never thirsty, with more than 100 American whiskeys, bourbons, ryes and Texas craft beers to choose from.
Texas Music City Grill and Steakhouse, 66 Miranda Lambert Way Unit 4, Lindale, and 5425 Old Jacksonville Hwy. in Tyler, is a lively spot for Texas music every Friday and Saturday. Their shows mostly feature country music, but sometimes pop and also competitions for singers and songwriters. You will love their Instagram-worthy, hand-crafted cocktails, to-die-for menu items like their Texas Twinkies, and really fun atmosphere filled with Texas pride.
The Back Porch, 904 Broadway Blvd., Kilgore, is a legendary spot for live music. You can catch an acoustic performance or highenergy live band on The Back Porch Stage on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. While you enjoy some country, rock, R&B, soul, blues, rockabilly, or Texabilly, you can fill your belly with homemade chips or beer-battered onion rings to compliment the mouth-watering burgers and patty melts. They have a wide selection of other items on their menu, from salads to quesadillas to pizza. There really is something for everyone.
Rick’s on the Square, 104 W Erwin St., Tyler, is a Tyler classic for food that never disappoints and as a spot that comes alive on weekend nights. The downtown restaurant also has a bar and venue for live music. The outdoor patio is a great place to enjoy one of their craft cocktails and hear live music Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. The vibes are immaculate. It’s a classy place, but absolutely never stuffy – you always feel comfortable and welcome. Plus their food madefrom-scratch food is incredible.
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Brisket Love Barbecue and Icehouse, 15338 FM 849, Lindale, has earned awards and all sorts of recognition for their unbelievably tasty barbecue. While you’re devouring something delicious from their menu, you can enjoy live music every Friday and Saturday. Their Hackberry Hall welcomes artists who play covers, classic rock, Texas country, rock ‘n’ roll and more. In September, they will have popular Texas country band Mickey and the Motorcars then Creed Fisher in October.
Tombonis Bistro, 1811A Judson Rd., Longview, has an intimate outdoor music venue, Outside Live. Enjoy a glass of your favorite wine or beer in this relaxed atmosphere on Saturday nights through November. You can also enjoy some of their beautifully plated, freshly sourced meals that are sure to impress. The Forge Bar and Grill, 1610 FM 279, Ben Wheeler, is a casual restaurant with various cocktails and food best known for their handmade pizzas. They have live music Wednesday through Saturday from all genres. Mark your calendars for their upcoming event set for Sept. 24, with all-day music from five to seven different artists.
Stanley's BBQ Tyler Downtown Live Longview
Red Rooster IceHouse, 1470 Beaulah St., Hawkins, is a restaurant and bar that has a variety of fresh food and live music every Saturday night. The beer is always cold, the food is divine, and you’re guaranteed to have a good time. There are also several ticketed concerts in September and October. The restaurant’s intimate setting and laid-back atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to spend your night.
89etxview.com | September/October 2022 LMFA.org 903.753.8103 Admission is Free for Members, $5 for Guests. Visit the website for exhibit details. MarkTransformationIntheWildWorldofNesmith:ARetrospective JUN 4 - SEP 24 Ellie Taylor: A Lifetime of Painting JUN 4 - JAN 7 Red Rooster Icehouse Hawkins True Vine Brewing Co. Tyler Best places in East Texas
Lago Del Pino, 14706 County Rd. 1134, Tyler, is a lakeside restaurant that serves a variety of Mexican and American food and drinks. Their live music on Friday and Saturday nights is sure to please anyone, as they feature a variety of artists and genres including pop, soft rock, acoustic rock, classic rock, soul singers, jazz, R&B, Latin rhythms and country.
Open Range Bar & Grill, 367 State Hwy 155 North in Gilmer, offers a unique experience for the night. Their food is delicious with classic favorites, but you’ll want to stay after dinner, too. They have axe throwing lanes and a dancefloor to dance the night away during their live music performances. They also have karaoke nights.
Scotties Bistro, 1188 E Hawkins Pkwy. Suite 100, Longview, is not only a great place to enjoy exquisite fare from a talented and creative chef, but they also offer Bistro Live every Thursday night.
Situated on a lake with pictureperfect views, this venue is an oasis and beautiful spot to spend your weekend evenings.
The Arboretum Longview Best places in East Texas
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Longview Arboretum Fall Concert Series, 706 W. Cotton St., Longview, is a great place to take the family or have a date night while supporting the community at the same time. A variety of artists will play this fall as a fundraiser for the arboretum.
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ETX Brewing Co., 221 S Broadway Ave., Tyler, is another great place to grab a beer and support some amazing talent. This is such a cool hangout with a number of beers, ciders and even local wine to choose from. Plus, you can take your pup! A current musical lineup can be viewed online.
A variety of artists are on the lineup and no doubt, you’ll enjoy your time at this local spot.
FRESH Grill + Patio by Brookshires, 6991 Old Jacksonville Hwy., Tyler, is always hopping with entertainment. If you’re not from around here, you might wonder if you’re in the right place when you pull up to a grocery store. But trust us, it’s one of the best places to enjoy music in Tyler. Hear all types of music, from jazz to country to covers, on Friday and Saturday nights from 6 to 9 p.m. They have all different types of food options, and the atmosphere is very familyfriendly.
Downtown Live, 219 E. Methvin St., Longview, will offer a free weekly concert on Friday nights this fall. Grab your lawn chairs and get ready for a fun night, and feel free to bring the kids. Choose from a variety of local food trucks for your dinner and have a chill night at this family-friendly music series.
Lone Star Ice House, 1016 McCann Rd., Longview, is a local favorite for live music. The sports bar is the place to be on a Friday or Saturday night, and it offers great food and cold craft and draft beers. They have live music every weekend with a variety of artists and you might even catch a karaoke night.
Leon’s Steakhouse Saloon, 2112 S Eastman Rd., Longview, is a steakhouse with live music and country dancing. Along with great performers, you might also catch one of their cornhole nights.
CONT. FROM PG. 88 True Vine Brewing Company, 2453 Earl Campbell Parkway and 110 N College Ave Suite 102 in Tyler, is a local favorite for live music. Obviously, the beer and wine selection is amazing, plus the atmosphere can’t be beat. All ages are welcome, and the Earl Campbell location even has a park for kids and dogs to play while you enjoy the tunes. While you’re there, don’t miss out on Sola Bread’s amazing wood-fired pizza.
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September/October 2022 | etxview.com92 SEPTEMBER/OCT. CALENDAR events BULLARD NATIONAL NIGHT OUT 6 P.M. OCT. 4 BULLARD KIDS PARK 510 N. Rather https://www.bullardtexas.net/St. COPTOBERFEST 6 P.M. OCT. 31 Bullard Police Department 204 W. Main https://www.bullardtexas.net/St. CANTON FIRST TRADEMONDAYDAYS SEPT. 2-4 AND SEPT. 29-OCT. 2 First Monday Grounds 800 First Monday Lane firstmondaycanton.com/https://www. FARMERSDOWNTOWNMARKET 8 A.M. TO 12 P.M. SEPT. 3, 10, 17, 24 AND OCT. 1 202 N. Buffalo org/https://www.cantonmainstreet.St. AUTUMN FESTIVAL OCT. 8 Downtown cantontexaschamber.com/https://www.Canton CLASSIC COUNTRY & HONKY TONK HALLOWEEN OCT. 20-22 Canton Civic Center 800 First Monday Lane cantontexaschamber.com/https://www. CARTHAGE POTLATCH ART, FOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL 9 A.M. TO 4 P.M. OCT. 1 Carthage Civic Center 1702 S. Adams https://www.carthagetexas.us/St. SHAKE, RATTLE & ROLL 2 P.M. OCT. 9 Esquire Theater 114 W. Sabine https://www.carthagetexas.us/St. CHANDLER CHANDLER POW WOW OCT. 8 Winchester commerce.com/https://chandlertxchamberofPark EDOM EDOM ART FESTIVAL 10 A.M. TO 5 P.M. OCT. 8-9 Downtown https://visitedom.com/Edom GILMER COFFEE & CARS 7:30 A.M. TO 10:30 A.M. SEPT. 2 AND OCT. 1 Downtown coffeeandcarsgilmer/https://www.facebook.com/Gilmer 80 ACRE MARKET SEPT. 9-11 AND 23-25 12229 FM https://80acremarket.com/1650 East Texas Yamboree
93etxview.com | September/October 2022 3RD CRAFTANNUALMARKET 9 A.M. SEPT. 24 7545 Newt bit.ly/3uVaplZRd. 85TH EAST TEXAS YAMBOREE OCT. 19-22 Downtown Gilmer and Gilmer Civic https://yamboree.com/Center 2ND CUTXANNUALFALLFEST NOON TO 9 P.M. NOV. 12 Downtown Gilmer www.gilmerareachamber.comSquare HENDERSON 28TH ANNUAL PRCA RODEO OCT. 14-15 Rusk County Youth Expo Center 3303 FM 13 com/http://www.visithendersontx.W. JACKSONVILLE NATIONAL NIGHT OUT 6 P.M. TO 8 P.M. OCT. 4 Downtown com/eventshttp://www.jacksonvilletexas.Jacksonville MUDDIN’ FOR A CURE OCT. 6-9 River Run ATV https://www.riverrunpark.com/Park TRUNK OR TREAT OCT. 31 Downtown com/eventshttp://www.jacksonvilletexas.Jacksonville JEFFERSON 20TH ANNUAL MOTOCROSSINTERNATIONALAHRMAVINTAGE SEPT. 7-11 Diamond Don RV Park & Event Center 1602 Texas 49 http://diamonddonempire.com/E. ARTISAN/MAKERS MARKET 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M. SEPT. 16-19 Art on the Bayou Gallery 205 N. Walnut https://visitjeffersontexas.com/St. 4TH ANNUAL ANTIQUE TRACTOR SHOW 10 A.M. SEPT. 17 Downtown https://visitjeffersontexas.com/Jefferson SHADY WITCHESLADIESDANCE 6:30 P.M. AND 7 P.M. SEPT. 30, OCT. 1, 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 28-29 Made in the Shade Boutique 118 E. Henderson https://visitjeffersontexas.com/St. EXPRESSHALLOWEENTRAIN 2:30 OCT.P.M.1,8, 15, 29 Historic Jefferson Railway 400 E. Austin https://visitjeffersontexas.com/St. TEXAS CONFERENCEBIGFOOT OCT. 14-15 Jefferson Convention & Visitor Center 305 E. Austin https://visitjeffersontexas.com/St. KILGORE GOLF CLASSIC 2022 8 A.M. TO 5 P.M. SEPT. 16 Meadowbrook Golf & Event www.kilgorechamber.comCenter OKTOBERFEST OCT. 15 Downtown com/https://www.kilgoremainstreet.Kilgore EAST TEXAS OILMEN’S CHILI COOKOFF OCT. 27 Downtown etxchilicookoff/https://www.facebook.com/Kilgore | CONT. ON PG. 94 Edom Art Festival
September/October 2022 | etxview.com94 LINDALE COUNTRYFEST 2022 9 A.M. OCT. 8 Picker’s Pavilion 205 E. North https://lindalechamber.org/St. PINEY WOODS WINE FESTIVAL OCT. 14-15 Picker’s Pavilion at Blackberry Square 205 Cannery eventshttps://www.visitlindale.com/Row LONGVIEW SHARON SHRINE CIRCUS 4:30 P.M. AND 7:30 P.M. SEPT. 2 Longview Rodeo Arena 100 Grand thejordanworldcircus.com/http://www.Blvd. CRUISE NIGHT 5 P.M. TO 7 P.M. SEPT. 3 Downtown texas.comhttp://www.visitlongviewLongview HISTORIC LONGVIEW FARMERS MARKET 7:30 A.M. SEPT. 3, 17, 24 AND OCT. 1, 8, 15, 22 AND 29 105 W. Cotton farmersmarket.com/https://www.historiclongviewSt. THEOLOGY ON TAP 6 P.M. TO 8 P.M. SEPT. 6 AND OCT. 4 Oil Horse Brewing Co. 101 W. Tyler brewing.com/https://www.oilhorseSt. GREGG COUNTY FAIR SEPT. 5-18 Longview Fairgrounds and Exhibit Building 100 Grand https://greggcountyfair.com/Blvd. LONE STAR BLUES JAM 7 P.M. TO 10 P.M. SEPT. 6, 13, 20, 27 AND OCT. 4, 11, 18, 25 Reo Starplex Event Center & Roller Rink 4716 W. Loop https://www.reostarplex.com/281 ROOTS IN THE GARDEN CONCERT SERIES 6 P.M. SEPT. 8, 15, 22, 29 Longview Arboretum and Nature Center 706 W. Cotton arboretum.org/http://www.longviewSt. KEVIN JAMES 7 P.M. TO 9 P.M. SEPT. 22 LeTourneau University Belcher Center 2100 S. Mobberly https://belchercenter.comAve. NEIL M CCOY EAST TEXAS ANGEL NETWORK CONCERT 7 P.M. SEPT. 24 LeTourneau University Belcher Center 2100 S. Mobberly https://belchercenter.comAve. KARE FOR KIDS BBQ COOKOFF 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M. OCT. 1 Longview Fairgrounds AG Pavilion 100 Grand gov/https://www.longviewtexas.Blvd. TOBYMAC THEATRE TOUR 7 P.M. OCT. 2 LeTourneau University Belcher Center 2100 S. Mobberly https://belchercenter.comAve. NATIONAL NIGHT OUT OCT. 4 gov/https://www.longviewtexas. ARTWALK LONGVIEW 5 P.M. TO 8 P.M. OCT. 6 Downtown com/https://www.artwalklongview.Longview URBAN CREED BREAST CANCER AWARENESS BENEFIT PARTY 8 P.M. OCT. 8 Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center 100 Grand Oilhorsebrewinghttps://www.facebook.com/Blvd. | CONT. FROM PG. 93 Gregg County Fair
95etxview.com | September/October 2022 LONGVIEW JAYCEES TRADE DAYS 9 A.M. TO 5 P.M. OCT. 8 AND 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M. OCT. 9 Longview Exhibit Center 1123 Jaycee com/Trade_Dayshttp://www.greggcountyfair.Drive EAST SYMPHONICTEXAS BAND 3 P.M. OCT. 9 LeTourneau University Belcher Center 2100 S. Mobberly https://belchercenter.comAve. EAST TEXAS FOOD BANK DISTRIBUTION 8 A.M. TO 10 A.M. OCT. 14 Longview Exhibit Center 1123 Jaycee Drive easttexasfoodbank.org/https://www. LONGVIEW WINE FESTIVAL NOON TO 6 P.M. OCT. 15 Longview Arboretum 706 W. Cotton https://etxalz.org/St. LONGVIEW AMBUCS MOBILITY BASH 6 PM. TO 10 P.M. OCT. 15 Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center 100 Grand com/https://www.longviewambucs.Blvd. ANNIE MOSES BAND 7 P.M. OCT. 20 LeTourneau University Belcher Center 2100 S. Mobberly https://belchercenter.comAve. EAST SYMPHONICTEXAS BAND 1 P.M. OCT. 21 Wood Hollow Golf Club 5121 McCann https://etsymphonicband.org/Road EAST TEXAS BREWER’S GUILD HOMEBIERFEST 2 P.M. TO 6 P.M. OCT. 22 Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center 100 Grand etbrewersguildhttps://www.facebook.com/Blvd. SOUTHSIDEBESSIE’S BLUES 7 P.M. OCT. 22 Longview Exhibit Center 1123 Jaycee blulibraenthttps://www.facebook.com/Drive HARVEST FESTIVAL AND LIVESTOCK SHOW OCT. 25-29 Longview Convention Complex 100 Grand com/harvestfestivallivestockshow.http://www.Blvd. MAGIC AND MAYHEM BENEFITING LMFA 6 P.M. TO 11 P.M. OCT. 29 The Summit Club 3700 Judson https://www.lmfa.org/Road LONGVIEW DREAM CENTER FALL FESTIVAL 4 P.M. TO 8 P.M. OCT. 29 Longview Exhibit Center 1123 Jaycee Drive longviewdreamcenter.com/https://www. | CONT. ON PG. 96 903-590-7722 VACCINES • HEARTWORMMICROCHIPSPREVENTIONFLEA/TICKPRODUCTSNAILTRIMSAPPOINTMENTS ARE REQUIRED FOR SURGERY Visit www.DehartVetServices.com HIGH AFFORDABLEQUALITYSPAY/NEUTER&WELLNESSCLINICS For an appointment call Dr. Sharon Marsh, Veterinarian DEHARTVETERINARYSERVICES throughoutLocationsEastTexas
September/October 2022 | etxview.com96 CRUISEMARSHALLNIGHT 5 P.M. TO 9 P.M. SEPT. 10 AND OCT. 8 Downtown events/#!calendarhttps://marshalltexas.com/Marshall PASTURE PARTY 2022 7:30 P.M. SEPT. 10 Bear Creek Smokehouse 10857 Highway events/#!calendarhttps://marshalltexas.com/154 BILL HALEY JR. & THE COMETS 7:30 P.M. TO 9:30 P.M. SEPT. 24 Memorial City Hall 110 E. Houston com/https://www.memorialcityhall.St. 40TH FIREANTANNUALFESTIVAL OCT. 8 Downtown https://marshalltexas.com/Marshall MARKET ON THE SQUARE OCT. 8 Downtown MarshallTXMarkethttps://www.facebook.com/Marshall TEXAS INTERNATIONALSOUNDS COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS 7 P.M. OCT. 13-15 Memorial City Hall 110 E. Houston com/https://www.memorialcityhall.St. DALE WATSON & HIS LONESTARS 7:30 P.M. OCT. 29 Memorial City Hall 110 E. Houston com/https://www.memorialcityhall.St. PITTSBURG PIONEER DAYS SEPT. 10-17 Downtown com/https://pittsburgpioneerdays.Pittsburg PAINT PITT PINK CHILI COOKOFF 10:30 A.M. TO 1 P.M. OCT. 14 Pendergrass Park 140 Quitman Calendar.aspxhttps://www.pittsburgtx.gov/St. TRICK OR TREAT MAIN STREET 5 P.M. TO 7 P.M. OCT. 29 Downtown Calendar.aspxhttps://www.pittsburgtx.gov/Pittsburg TYLER STAND-UP COMEDY NIGHT 7:30 P.M. SEPT. 2 Rose City Comedy 115 W. Front https://visittyler.com/calendar/St. NEW PLAY FEST: “JUST PLAYIN’” 2:30 P.M. TO 4:30 P.M. SEPT. 3 Tyler Civic Theatre 400 Rose Park http://tylercivic.com/Drive ETSO SYMPHONY IN THE PARK 7 SEPT.P.M. 3 Bergfeld Park 1510 S. College Ave. https://etso.org/ UPTOWN NIGHTS AT BRICKS 9 P.M. SEPT. 3, 10, 17 418Brick’sE. Erwin DowntownTyler/https://www.facebook.com/St. FALL ART EXHIBIT 11 A.M. TO 12 P.M. SEPT. 9 Gallery Main Street 110 N. College org/eventshttps://www.downtowntyler.Ave. TROUBADOUR FESTIVAL 11 A.M. TO 12 P.M. SEPT. 10 Downtown com/https://www.troubadourfestival.Square | CONT. FROM PG. 95 Marshall Fireant Festival
TUNES AT NOON 11 A.M. TO 1:30 P.M. OCT. 6
97etxview.com | September/October 2022
8 Downtown org/eventshttps://www.downtowntyler.Square
EAST TEXAS STATE FAIR SEPT. 23-OCT. 2 East Texas State Fairgrounds 2112 W. Front https://www.etstatefair.com/St.
8 Downtown DowntownTylerhttps://www.facebook.com/Tyler ROSE
Trinity Mother Frances Rose com/https://www.texasrosefestival.Stadium VINTAGE ROSE FESTIVAL DRESS DISPLAY 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M. OCT. 8-29 Goodman-LeGrand House 624 N. Broadway com/https://www.texasrosefestival.Ave. TRUNK OR TREAT 5 P.M. TO 7 P.M. OCT. 23 Walk-through event UT https://www.uttyler.edu/Tyler CHICAGO LIVE IN CONCERT 7:30 P.M. OCT. 29 UT Tyler Cowan Center 3900 University https://cowancenter.org/Blvd. Events for publication in the November/December issue of ETX View must be submitted via email to info@etxview.com by Oct. 3. TexasFestivalRose 22ND ANNUAL ARCHITECTURAL TOUR Homes of the Oil Boom Era MAGICTHE OF MARDI GRAS JULY 12TH TO SEPTEMBER 17TH · 2022 Tuesday-Friday: 10-4 Saturdays: 10-2 Adults: $5 Senior Citizens: $2 Students: $1 214 N Fredonia St. Longview, TX 75601
MAGICIAN AND COMEDIAN JUSTIN WILLMAN 7:30 SEPT.P.M.24
DAYMOND JOHN LECTURE 7:30 P.M. OCT. 4 UT Tyler Cowan Center 3900 University https://cowancenter.org/Blvd.
“HANDS ON A HARDBODY” OCT. 6-9, 13-16 AND 20-23 Tyler Civic Theatre 400 Rose Park
HIT THE BRICKS 10 A.M. TO 11 A.M. OCT. CITY MUSIC FESTIVAL 1 P.M. TO 5 P.M. OCT.
Downtown org/eventshttps://www.downtowntyler.Square
THE TEXAS TENORS: LET FREEDOM SING 7:30 OCT.P.M.1 UT Tyler Cowan Center 3900 University https://cowancenter.org/Blvd.
LIGHTWIRE THEATER “THE ADVENTURES OF TORTOISE AND HARE” 10 A.M. AND 12:30 P.M. SEPT. 22 UT Tyler Cowan Center 3900 University https://cowancenter.org/Blvd.
TEXAS ROSE FESTIVAL PARADE 9 A.M. OCT. 15 West from Glenwood Blvd. and Front St. to CHRISTUS
TEXAS ROSE FESTIVAL OCT. 13-16 Rose Garden Center; exact locations, times vary by www.texasrosefestival.com/event
UT Tyler Cowan Center 3900 University https://cowancenter.org/Blvd.
https://tylercivictheatre.com/Drive
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