November/December 2018 County Line Magazine

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JD COLE MATERIAL IDENTITY

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CONTENTS 24

DEPARTMENTS 5 Editor’s Note & Letters

THIS TIME OF YEAR

14 Jamie Foxx, Hand Written Letters, Diamond Bessie, Famous Aviators, Time for a Change

CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT 20 Vanishing Texana Museum; Goodman-LeGrand House; Nacogdoches Wine, Whiskey, and Brew Tour; Heritage Syrup Festival; Area Event Picks

THE ARTS

20

30 J ac Lahav’s Great Americans, The Kimbells of Whiteright

36

30

STAGE 32 It’s Showtime at the GMA, Dicken’s Christmas Carol, Ten Tenors, Event Picks

LITERARY 34 Dangerous Ground by Herb Marlow, The Creator’s Dilemmas by Tom Geddie, The Seventeen Dollar Murders by Melinda Richarz Lyons, Pulpwood Queens, and “The Pulse of the Age,” a poem by Darrell Lindsey

8

MUSIC

16

36 Boogie Woogie Birthplace, Bellamy Brothers, Wood & Wire, Music Event Picks

FOOD & DRINK

FEATURES

42 Oxbow Pies, New Year’s Eve

8 JD Cole’s Material Identity

Artist JD Cole enjoys capturing the spirit of people in Nacogdoches and seeing them displayed at Dolli’s Diner.

By P.A. Geddie

county line Upper East Side of Texas

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16 World War I Hits Centennial

The Great War for dominance and power is remembered throughout the region 100 years after it ended.

M A G A Z I N E

JD COLE MATERIAL IDENTITY

Wonderland of Lights RINGING IN THE NEW YEAR

GREAT WAR CENTENNIAL

24 Wonderland of Lights

42

Each year the city of Marshall’s downtown comes to life with millions of lights, an ice skating rink, Santa’s Village, and much more.

Boogie Woogie Birthplace

Heritage Syrup Festival Jac Lahav’s Great Americans

The Kimbells OXBOW PIES

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Cover art: “Red Dress,” by JD Cole

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county line Since 2000

MAGAZINE

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

PUBLISHER & MANAGING EDITOR P.A. Geddie COPY EDITORS Steve Freeman Tracy Torma

CONTRIBUTORS Krista Leard Gaile Robinson Darrell Lindsey Tracy Torma April Canik Linda Ayers

Digital Publications & Graphic Design Assistant Krista Leard

ADVERTISING pa.geddie@countylinemagazine.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS info@countylinemagazine.com County Line Magazine is published every other month, 6 times a year. Subscription costs: $15 per year. Bulk rate postage paid at Ben Wheeler, Texas. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to County Line Magazine, P.O. Box 608, Ben Wheeler, TX 75754.

Contents COPYRIGHT 2018 County Line all rights reserved. Material may not be reproduced without written permission. Opinions expressed in articles or advertising appearing in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Ben Wheeler, TX 75754 Phone: 903.963.8306.

E-mail: info@countylinemagazine.com Website: www.countylinemagazine.com. Free listings are entered on a space available basis. Advertising space may be purchased by calling 903.963.8306. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement we deem incompatible with our mission.

EDITOR’S NOTE Dear Readers, Step into a world of glittering lights, unique historical treasures, exceptional art and music, holiday entertainment, good reads, and delicious treats in the Upper East Side of Texas during these last few weeks of the year 2018.

We are fortunate to have so many choices for good times and memory-making moments, and uplifting communities that make our region so inviting to those of us who chose to live, work, and play here.

We have our veterans to thank for much of our good fortune.

In this issue you’ll find a brief account of World War I, the “War to End All Wars” it was claimed. As we know now that is not the case. As ceremonies take place around the region commemorating the 100th anniversary of the end of that devastating war, it helps us to remember the price paid by those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, and by all of us, even generations later, when greed and power overrule common decency and love for humankind.

My hope for us all is that we ride out our life journeys with wisdom and compassion — choosing our battles as we may — with dignity and respect for one another, no matter how much we disagree or feel oppressed or otherwise wronged.

We need leaders in our communities, state, country, and the world who build

unity, not division; who value all people, not just ones they are trying to impress; and who put greed and power aside for the good of humankind.

We the people have the power to vote, to let our voices be heard, and to continuously let those who’ve taken charge know what we expect of them. We can do this in a dignified manner. We can also act locally and set good examples of what it means to be unified communities that take care of one another instead of tearing each other apart. As Gandhi said, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.”

Get involved in your local communities — pick a cause important to you and join like-minded people. Join in and support local events and efforts to make things better. Visit with neighbors, especially those you disagree with— finding common ground is not that difficult when you set your mind to do so. Agree to disagree when all else fails.

Some of the great things about the Upper East Side of Texas are the treasures you’ll find in this issue — these things, and the people who bring them to us, give us opportunities to let go of our concerns for a while and focus on the good in our world.

May you have many joy-filled times and find comfort in the hope for peace on earth, good will to all.

P.A. Geddie

LETTERS Please start my one year subscription. You produce a great magazine with lots of fun pertinent info.

uses it to keep up with local events takes the time to subscribe — they sure deserve the support.

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Connie Lovelady Athens

For over 20 years,

Enclosed is my check a one year subTexans for thefor Arts Texans for the Arts consistently worked to: scription hasto County Line. I enjoy your Protect Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) arts funding publication.

Increase funding for the Texas Commission on the Arts For over 20 years,

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Expand the conversation about the vital role the arts play in our schools and communities

andExpand the conversation about the vital Support tax policies other measures that help artists and arts organizations play in our schools and communities Advocate for increased funding for the National taxpolicies policies Endowment for the Arts Support and for federal that and other support artists and arts artists organizations. and arts organizations

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measures that help

Advocate for increased funding for the National Endowment for the Arts and for federal policies that

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artists arts organizations.

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JD Cole’s Material Identity

Paintings Show Characters in the Oldest Town in Texas tion,” an unknown worker at Greer’s interior design store in downtown Nacogdoches; “Oldtime Traditions” and “Oldtime Musician” featuring Steve Hartz in his shop at the General Mercantile & Old-time String Shop; “Stuff Broker” Ken Wood of Ken’s Antiques; “Leather Carver” Carey Blanchard with B4 Custom Leather working on a detailed project; small engine repairman Billy Douglas in “The Mow Man;” and the “Quilter” Bobbie Soloman from Nacogdoches Treatment Center.

“Red Dress,” featured on the cover of this issue, is a portrait of Cole’s daughter Jessica.

“As I began classical realism portraiture painting, I was advised to know who of the masters inspire my style. That was easy,” Cole recalls. “I especially enjoy works by Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and John Singer Sargent. Sargent’s painting, ‘Portrait of Madame X’ (1884), directly inspired the composition and idea behind ‘Red Dress.’”

“Red Dress,” along with the Nacogdoches pieces, are part of a series of 10 paintings surrounding the concept of “Material Identity.”

Artist JD Cole stands beside a couple of his paintings of local residents at Dolli’s Diner in downtown Nacogdoches including Billy Douglas, “The Mow Man;” Ken Wood, “The Stuff Broker;” and Carey Blanchard, “Leather Carver.”

By P.A. Geddie As guests enter Dolli’s Diner on Pecan Street in downtown Nacogdoches, they are greeted by a stunning display of large, colorful, expressive portraits along a brick wall. Created by artist JD Cole, the paintings are Nacogdoches people in scenes that reflect their lives in Texas’ oldest city.

“That beautiful, blank brick wall just begged for some art,” Cole says of the time when he first visited the diner, so he offered to provide paintings and the owners, Dolli and Steven Geyerman,

agreed. “Their desire was to focus on people and events specific to Nacogdoches. Since my paintings were of local and downtown folks, it was a perfect fit.”

“Material Identity,” Cole explains, comes from a concept common in many art studies called “Material Culture.” Historically, artists were encouraged to observe life going on around them and express it in fresh, new ways.

“A number of contemporary artists across several mediums take this approach and many also attempt to mesh the modern with the past,” Cole says. “I took hold of this concept and morphed it a little to fit what I was trying to do, calling it ‘Material Identity.’

One of the paintings is “Ms. Dolli” herself, gracing the doorway of her diner in a multi-colored striped apron with black-and-white-striped socks, inviting folks in to what promises to be a fun and delicious dining experience.

“I have always been a storyteller and collector of stories. Now I add painting to help tell the stories. The material objects, the collections, and tools that people amass in a lifetime help to tell

Other local characters that grace the brick wall or were commissioned by Cole at some point include “Restora-

RIGHT: Steve Hartz in “Old Time Traditions.”

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continued page 10

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 9

PAPER

Indulge YOU DESERVE IT

JD COLE continued from page 8 their individual stories. When you look at all these elements together they help define who a person is and make up a person’s material identity which includes how persons perceive themselves and how others identify them, like what they are ‘known’ for. Often the materials surrounding a person sort of set the stage for the life story.”

Originally from Oklahoma, Cole met his Nacogdoches-born wife, Melanie, 30 plus years ago and the couple took up residence in her hometown. In 1991, they went on a two-year adventure to Alaska that’s still going on today. He teaches art and coaches in Alaska public education. They always returned to Nacogdoches during summers and holidays over the years before moving back semi-permanently in 2013.

“At the moment I split my time between Nac and Alaska as I finish up a commitment there,” Cole says, adding that he will continue to spend part of the year in Alaska and part in East Texas for a long time to come.

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In 2013 Cole gained an advanced degree in painting at Stephen F. Austin (SFA) State University in Nacogdoches.

On his website, Cole says he is inspired by times, traditions, and crafts of the past — items that risk being lost in the modern-day world. He seeks out unique individuals and subject matter that follow a person’s journey into their material identity. He explores the costuming efforts and experimentation of the young to middle age, where focus is often grounded in an occupation, and on through the deep-rooted traditions and passions of a lifetime.

“My favorite part of working on portraits is getting to spend time with the person and getting to know more about their nature, personality, and passions,” he says. “I feel that experience completely changes the way I portray them in paint.”

He’s a perfectionist, and often calls on his subjects to help with final tweaks to the work.

“Often with a commission, I ask the customer to spend time with the completed painting to determine if they see the essence of the person in the

10 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

portrait. Several times I have gone back to a painting to adjust eye color or the quirk of a smile to achieve just that perfect touch.”

Dolli’s Diner is certainly brightened up by the lively paintings and the spirit of the Nacogdoches people Cole has captured in paint.

“I love intense contrast gained through lighting options and color choices,” he says. “For portraits depicting material identity, I especially look for settings and background images that enhance and help tell that person’s particular story and passions. In all cases I am a fan of capturing the subject candidly and a little bit unaware of the presence of the camera.”

In 2015, Cole was a finalist in Texas National Juried Exhibition in Nacogdoches and a second-place winner in the SFA Art Alliance 32nd Annual Art Show. He was also a featured artist in an SFA exhibition and had a memorable evening there.

“My absolute favorite experience (with portraits) happened at my exhibit at SFA. I had 10 portraits of local people in the gallery and through the course of the evening every one of those people came and stood in front of their own image. There was such a strong sense of community present. Many brought family members, some wore the same clothes as in their painting, and in all cases they just came, stayed, and visited with each other and about the art. It was a very surreal experience and hard to express the feelings it created for me.”

Cole intends to continue exploring images on the theme of people engaged in their material identity. He and his wife have an interest in Alaskan Native culture and will spend time soon in village settings to document the traditional ways of life there. He’s currently working on a portrait of the late SFA faculty member Dr. Robert Gruebel and has a few more East Texas characters in mind to capture their essence and tell their stories in lively colored strokes of paint.

RIGHT, Top Clockwise: “Restoration,” with unknown worker; “Ms. Dolli,” the restaurant’s namesake, and Carey Blanchard, “Leather Carver.”

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 11

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THIS TIME OF YEAR NOVEMBER 21, 2018

DECEMBER 7

Jamie Foxx Captivates Audiences as Little John

A Hand Written Letter Still Carries Much More Meaning Than an Email

Jamie Foxx,(left) stands next to Taron Egerton on the set of Robin Hood. Courtesy Photo

Coming this November, Jamie Foxx captivates audiences in his newest film, starring as the renowned character Little John, sidekick to Taron Egerton’s role as Robin Hood.

Summit Entertainment presents this new action-adventure film, Robin Hood, making its way to theaters towards the Thanksgiving holiday.

The world can give thanks to the Upper East Side of Texas for producing one of the lead role actors. Eric Marlon Bishop — who later changed his name to Jamie Foxx — was born December 13, 1967, and raised in Terrell, Texas. When his birth parents could not take care of him, his grandparents stepped in, adopting him at just seven months old.

He says he had a very rigid upbringing that placed him in the Boy Scouts and the church choir. During high school, he played quarterback for the football team and got noticed by Dallas newspapers.

He discovered he had a passion for comedy and music, and one of his first on-stage performances was a stand-up comedy act. In the early 1990s he was

cast on TV shows Roc and In Living Color.

The actor, dubbed as one of the “Hottest Bachelors” in Hollywood, became more famously known as one of the first African-American actors to be nominated for two Academy Awards in the same year, as well as only the second male in history to receive two acting Oscar nominations for two separate films in the same year.

Some of his best movies included Ray, Django Unchained, The Amazing SpiderMan 2 and Annie.

Foxx has claimed that his upbringing allowed him to really connect to characters that face hardships such as racism, divorce, and other childhood tragedies.

Besides his Robin Hood appearance this year, Foxx as usual has a number of other projects going on including several movies in the works. He also cohosts the TV game show Beat Shazam, along with his daughter Corrine as DJ, where contestants race to identify songs by sound in hopes of winning up to $1 million.

— Krista Leard

14 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

In today’s age of cellphones and computers, more often than not, people no longer receive letters in the mail, except for junk mail, or birthday cards from Grandma with some cash in it.

Most children below the age of 10 do not even know how to write a letter or how to send it.

But on December 7, everyone can celebrate the long-held tradition of letter writing on National Write a Letter Day. Although the origins of the day are still unclear, the celebration is estimated to have some sort of connection to the Japanese Letter Writing Week.

In an era of text messages and emails, when someone actually takes the time to sit down and write a letter by hand, it means much more than just a piece of paper with ink on it. That letter is another way of saying, “I love you so much, I’m taking time out of my day to sit down, comprise a letter, and send it to you.”

And, one day, those letters could hold some sort of value, or leave behind a story of a time that’s passed. People have been writing letters since 500 BC, and it is a terrible thing to see the tradition slowly fading out simply because of technology. So take part in the celebration, and take the time to write something, anything, and send it to someone you haven’t talked to in a while. — Krista Leard

DECEMBER 30, 1880

Diamond Bessie Discovered in Jefferson In the small town of Jefferson, on December 30, 1880, Abe Rothschild was released under the verdict that he was no longer guilty, after suffering through four years of trials and hearings, over the mysterious murder of the famed “Diamond Bessie.”

Back in January of 1877, Jefferson drew in a young couple for a few nights, under the name of “A. Monroe and wife.” The wife, who had yet to be identified, was covered in gaudy diamond jewelry, which were all hers. Less than two weeks later, A. Monroe left Jefferson, alone, and a few days after, the woman, later named “Diamond Bessie,” was found dead outside of the small town, a bullet wound through her head, and her infamous diamonds missing.

The victim was identified as Annie Stone Moore Rothshild, and her husband, Abraham Rothschild, was taken into custody, accused of the murder. Her diamonds were gifts from her wealthy clients from the brothel that she worked until she met Abraham and got married. As the couple lingered in the town, they were caught fighting and drinking, and many could NOVEMBER 4

overhear the husband calling her Bessie, which is why she was dubbed “Diamond Bessie.”

After the discovery of the true name of Rothschild, officials were sent to retrieve and arrest him, but in his grief, he attempted to shoot himself. It only resulted in the loss of his eye, and he was later arrested while in the hospital.

NOVEMBER 22

Because he was the son of one of the richest families in Cincinnati, Rothschild was able to get the best lawyers to help him, and over the course of four years of intense legal battles, he was finally found not guilty, and released. Although, he later was arrested after getting caught in a quarter million dollar diamond scandal. — Krista Leard

NOVEMBER: NATIONAL AVIATION MONTH

REMEMBERING OUR FAMOUS AVIATORS

Bessie Coleman Atlanta, Texas

First licensed AfricanAmerican pilot in the world

Daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. Sunday DECEMBER 21

01.26.1892 — 04.30.1926

DECEMBER 31

DECEMBER 31, 2015

Wiley Post

Grand Saline, Texas First pilot to fly solo around the world WINTER SOLSTICE

New Year’s Eve

11.22.1898 — 08.15.1935

READ FULL ARTICLES IN COUNTY LINEMAGAZINE.COM NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 15

World War I Hits Centennial The Great War for World Dominance and Power is Remembered 100 Years Later

By P.A. Geddie More than four million American families sent their sons and daughters to serve in uniform during World War I, a war that lasted four years between 1914 and 1918. November 11 marks the 100th anniversary of the end of the “Great War.” World War I was a conflict of dominance and power between so-called Central Powers (Austria-Hungary, Germany, Bulgaria, and the Ottoman Empire) and the Allies (Serbia, Russia, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Belgium, and the United States).

According to H.W. Crocker III in his book The Yanks Are Coming! A Military History of the United States in World War I, the seeds were planted for war in June 1914 when Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife were assassinated by 19-year-old Bosnian revolutionary Gavrilo Princip. The event was just a trigger, he states, and the actual causes of the war are more complicated and are still debated by historians today.

By all accounts, several alliances were made between countries during the late 1800s and early 1900s in which they agreed to give each other help when needed. Before World War I the alliances that made mutual defense agreements that would pull them into battle included Russia and Serbia; Germany and Austria-Hungary; France and Russia; Britain, France and Belgium; and Japan and Britain. The United States stayed neutral for a while.

Attempting to increase their power and wealth by bringing additional territories under their control, Britain and France increased their rivalry with Germany, all scrambling to acquire colonies in Africa and elsewhere. The growing European divide led to an arms race between the main countries. The armies of both France and Germany more than doubled in size between 1870 and 1914 and there was fierce competition between Britain and Germany for mastery of the seas.

Entering the fight for dominance and

World War I image for “America Experience’s The Great War” for PBS Media

power, Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia, and then Russia got involved to defend Serbia. Germany, seeing Russia mobilizing, declared war on Russia.

France was then drawn in against Germany and Austria-Hungary. Germany attacked France through Belgium, and that pulled Britain into the war. Then, Japan entered the war. Later, Italy and the United States entered on the side of the Allies.

In America Enters World War I (www.history.com), editors report that when World War I erupted in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson pledged neutrality for the United States, a position that the vast majority of Americans favored. Britain, however, was one of America’s closest trading partners, and tension soon arose between the United States and Germany over the latter’s attempted quarantine of the British Isles. Several U.S. ships traveling to Britain were damaged or sunk by German mines, and in February 1915 Germany announced unrestricted warfare against all ships, neutral or otherwise, that entered the war zone around Britain.

One month later, Germany announced that a German cruiser had sunk the William P. Frye, a private American vessel.

President Wilson was outraged, but the German government apologized and called the attack an unfortunate mistake.

16 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

On May 7, the British-owned Lusitania ocean liner was torpedoed without warning just off the coast of Ireland. Of the 1,959 passengers, 1,198 were killed, including 128 Americans.

The German government maintained that the Lusitania was carrying munitions, but the U.S. demanded reparations and an end to German attacks on unarmed passenger and merchant ships.

In August, Germany pledged to see to the safety of passengers before sinking unarmed vessels, but in November sunk an Italian liner without warning, killing 272 people, including 27 Americans.

With these attacks, public opinion in the United States began to turn irrevocably against Germany.

In 1917, Germany, determined to win its war of attrition against the Allies, announced the resumption of unrestricted warfare in war-zone waters. Three days later, the United States broke diplomatic relations with Germany, and just hours after that the American liner Housatonic was sunk by a German Uboat.

On February 22, Congress passed a $250 million arms appropriations bill intended to make the United States ready for war.

Continued page 18

Looking Back on the Great War, WWI

Through May 14, 2019

No Man’s Land: East Texas African Americans in WWI Exhibition. Various towns/traveling tour. www.nmltx.org

Through November 11

Texas and Collin County WWI Centennial Commemoration. McKinney. Collin County History Museum, 300 East Virginia Street.

(972) 542-9457. www.collincountyhistoricalsociety.org

Through December 31

WWI Artifacts Exhibit. Rockwall. Rockwall County Courthouse, 1111 East Yellow Jacket Lane. (214) 729-2815.

Through February 2019

North Texas in WWI. Various locations. www.northtexasworldwar1centennial.org

November 10

Centennial Commemoration: Edgewood Heritage Festival. Heritage Park Depot. www. edgewoodheritagefestival.com WWI Armistice Centennial Celebration.

Tyler. Smith County Historical Society Museum.

Carnegie Library Building, 125 South College Avenue. Tickets: $25. www.smithcountyhistoricalsociety.org Veterans Day Ceremony: 36th & 90th Division Recognition. Murchison.

Leagueville Baptist Church & Cemetery. (630) 789-0204. www.90thdivisionassoc.org

November 11

Commemoration: Rockwall. Veterans Wall/ Rockwall County Courthouse, 1111 East Yellow Jacket Lane. (469) 698-0401.

Contact local city offices to find other area remembrances.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 17

GREAT WAR Continued from page 16 In late March, Germany sunk four more U.S. merchant ships, and on April 2 President Wilson appeared before Congress and called for a declaration of war against Germany. Four days later, his request was granted.

On June 26, the first 14,000 U.S. infantry troops landed in France to begin training for combat. After four years of a bloody stalemate along the western front, the entrance of America’s well-supplied forces into the conflict marked a major turning point in the war and helped the Allies to achieve victory.

When the war finally ended, more than 4.7 million men and women had served in U.S. forces, national guard units, and draft units with about 2.8 million serving overseas. More than 116,500 U.S. soldiers died from combat and disease.

Another 200,000 were wounded, a casualty rate far greater than in World War II.

cluded secret arrangements for distribution of conquered German territories among the Allied Nations. Many historians believe these terms eventually led to World War II. (Source: www. americaslibrary.gov)

the experiences of African-American and Latino soldiers, suffragists, Native American ‘code talkers,’ and others whose participation in the war to ‘make the world safe for democracy’ has been largely forgotten.

Perhaps because the soldiers who fought in World War I are long gone, it is often called the forgotten war. The war’s centennial is an opportunity to learn about the causes, courses, and consequences of the war; to honor the heroism and sacrifice of all those who served; and to commemorate the centennial of this global event.

“The Great War explores how a brilliant PR man bolstered support for the war in a country hesitant to put lives on the line for a foreign conflict; how President Woodrow Wilson steered the nation through years of neutrality, only to reluctantly lead America into the bloodiest conflict the world had ever seen, thereby transforming the United States into a dominant player on the international stage; and how the ardent patriotism and determination to support America’s crusade for liberty abroad led to one of the most oppressive crackdowns on civil liberties at home in U.S. history.

For a more thorough and interesting look at World War I, see the PBS film The Great War at www.pbs.org/greatwar. Drawing on unpublished diaries, memoirs, and letters, the film tells the rich and complex story of World War I through the voices of nurses, journalists, aviators, and the American troops who came to be known as “doughboys.”

According to PBS, “The series explores

“It is a story of heroism and sacrifice that would ultimately claim 15 million lives and profoundly change the world forever.”

More Americans gave their lives during this war than during the Korea and Vietnam wars combined and it profoundly shaped the rest of the American century. Overall, more than 15 million died and 20 million were injured throughout the world. (Source: www. archives.gov) The killing ended when Germany formally surrendered November 11, 1918, and all nations agreed to stop fighting while the terms of peace were negotiated. Germany and the Allied Nations (Britain, France, Italy, and Russia) and Associated Powers (United States) signed the peace settlement at the Versailles Palace near Paris — the Treaty of Versailles — June 28, 1919.

The Treaty of Versailles imposed very rigid restrictions against Germany, including limiting its army to 100,000 members.

President Wilson, who opposed parts of the treaty, had developed his own form of reconciliation, called the “Fourteen Points.” The Points included a provision for a League of Nations to prevent “the crime of war.” Wilson also wanted all terms of settlement to be openly negotiated.

But the actual terms of the treaty in-

The “Big Four” principal architects of the Treaty of Versailles: (l-r) David Lloyd George of Britain, Vittorio Orlando of Italy, Georges Clemenceau of France, and Woodrow Wilson of the United States. National Archives, Washington, D.C.

18 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Flanders Fields Inspires Poets

county line

MAGAZINE

“In Flanders Fields” is a poem written

by Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae during World War I. Flanders is a region in Belgium where McCrae fought and where the German army launched one of the first chemical attacks in the history of war. In a letter to his mother, McCrae describes the Second Battle of Ypres in 2015 as a “nightmare.”

“For 17 days and 17 nights none of us have had our clothes off, nor our boots even, except occasionally,” McCrae wrote. “In all that time while I was awake, gunfire and rifle fire never ceased for 60 seconds. And behind it all was the constant background of the sights of the dead, the wounded, the maimed, and a terrible anxiety lest the line should give way.”

Belgium. This location is today known as the John McCrae Memorial Site.

A million soldiers from more than 50 different countries were wounded, missing or killed in action in Flanders Fields. Entire cities and villages were destroyed and left in tatters, two of which, Ypres and Passchendaele, became worldwide symbols for the atrocities of war. Today, the region still bears witness to the Great War’s history with many monuments, museums, cemeteries and individual stories.

Alexis Helmer, a close friend, was killed during the battle on May 2. McCrae performed the burial service himself, at which time he noted how poppies quickly grew around the graves of those who died in the Flanders region. The next day, he composed the poem while sitting in the back of an ambulance at an advanced dressing station outside Ypres,

McCrae’s poem inspired American professor and humanitarian Moina Michael of Georgia to write a poem of her own titled “We Shall Keep the Faith.” In tribute to McCrae’s opening lines, Michael vowed to always wear a red poppy as a symbol of remembrance for those who served in the war. After the war, to help returning servicemen, she began making and selling silk poppies as a means of raising funds to assist disabled veterans. In 1921, the poppy was adopted as a symbol of remembrance for war veterans by the American Legion Auxiliary and the tradition continues today.

In Flanders Fields

We Shall Keep the Faith

In Flanders fields the poppies grow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

Oh! you who sleep in Flanders Fields, Sleep sweet — to rise anew!

We caught the torch you threw And holding high, we keep the Faith With All who died.

We cherish, too, the poppy red That grows on fields where valor led; It seems to signal to the skies That blood of heroes never dies, But lends a lustre to the red Of the flower that blooms above the dead In Flanders Fields.

And now the Torch and Poppy Red We wear in honor of our dead.

Fear not that ye have died for naught; We’ll teach the lesson that ye wrought In Flanders Fields.

— John McCrae, 1915

blogs www.CountyLineMagazine.com

NOMINATIONS

OPEN Sep 1 - Nov 15

BEST OF 2018 Cast your nominations for your favorite people, places, food, and other things in the Upper East Side of Texas.

Winners are announced in the January/February 2019 issue and promoted throughout the year.

county line

countylinemagazine.com

— Moina Michael,1918 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 19



CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

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

Vanishing Texana Museum Displays Unique History ily madstone treated more than 1,000 patients over the years. None of the 81 patients cited in the journal died of rabies.

Another exhibit at the museum is the 500 BC - 1000 AD coin collection which changes every three months. One of the current tokens is an ancient bronze Roman Imperial coin of the Emperor Gordian III who ruled the Roman Empire from 238 AD until 244 AD. The opposite side of the coin features the goddess Pax, or Peace, presenting a plant frond as an offering.

The Vanishing Texana Museum is located at 300 South Bolton in Jacksonville, Texas. The building is made from native stone and was constructed in 1940 by the Works Progress Administration. Courtesy photo

The Vanishing Texana Museum in Jacksonville contains a display of artifacts representing the history of Texas and Cherokee County. Included in the display are Native American relics, farm equipment, photographs, guns, dolls, typewriters, and many other items of interest.

The Noell Madstone is on exhibit now through March 2019. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, a madstone was a remedy used for centuries to heal by drawing poison out of bites and wounds.

According to an article for the Jacksonville Progress by John H. Taylor this year, The Noell madstone is documented through journals, letters, newspaper

articles, and personal recollections. Dr. Jesse M. Noell (1818-1901) brought his madstone (also known as a bezoar or enterolith) from Virginia to Alto, Texas, in 1860. He stated the stone was thought to come from India and that it was in his family for several generations.

The madstone is unique in that it is crystal-like in appearance and displays a shiny, smooth translucent surface, unlike other reported madstones that resembled rocks.

After Dr. Noell died in 1901, his daughter Fannie (1863-1954) continued to use the madstone for many years. A journal at the Vanishing Texana Museum notes 81 patients “drawn” by Fannie during 1900-1903. According to Fannie, the fam-

Postal Cards from 1893-1950 are another favorite exhibit at the Vanishing Texana Museum. The oldest postcard is part of a series showing the “twin towers” on the campus of Lon Morris College, while it was still called Alexandria College.

The balance of the 2,000 items on display at the museum are primarily from 1830 thru 1950, but there are some fossils that are specific to the East Texas region as well.

Special tours are available at the museum for children and teenagers that include typing on a 1937 Royal portable typewriter, drawing a Civil War-era sword, and using a corn sheller.

The museum is located at 300 South Bolton. Admission and parking are free. Call (903) 586-7664 for hours of operation and visit their website at vtmjacksonville.org.

THE GREAT AMERICANS: WORKS BY JAC LAHAV THE MANY SCENES OF JAN STATMAN O C T O B E R 9 T O D E C E M B E R 15

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

20 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

One of the rare coins at the Vanishing Texana Museum in Jacksonville is an ancient bronze Roman Imperial coin of the Emperor Gordian III, who ruled the Roman Empire from 238 AD until 244 AD. Courtesy photo

EVENTS

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

Every Friday

Step Back in Time in the Goodman-LeGrand House

Friday Cruises. Rockwall. Lake Ray Hubbard.

(214) 534-3797, dfwboatride.com

Every Second Saturday

Hit the Bricks. Tyler. Downtown Tyler. (903) 592-6979, http://visittyler.com Marshall Main Street Second Saturday.

Marshall. Downtown Marshall. (903) 7027777, marshalltexas.net

Through February 18, 2019

Photo by Gaile Robinson

Life-Size Animatronic Dinosaurs.

McKinney. Heard Museum. (972) 562-5566 heardmuseum.org

November 1-4

First Monday Trade Days. Canton. First Monday Trade Days. (903) 567-6556, firstmondaycanton.com

November 3

Red, White, and Blue Festival. Bullard.

(903) 894-4238, bullardchamber.com Scarbrough Haven Fall Tour of Color.

Emory. (903) 473-3104, bscarbroughhaven.com Bullard Best Chili Cook-Off. Bullard.

Bullard Chamber. (903) 894-4238 bullardchamber.com Dia de los Muertos Fiesta. Nacogdoches Public Library, (936) 559-2970, www.visitnacogdoches.org

November 3-4

Dallas Hunter Jumper Scholarship Circuit Year End Show. Tyler. Texas Rose Horse Park.

(903) 882-8696 dallashunterjumperscholarship. org

November 7

Explore Emory Girls Night Out. Emory.

(903) 473-2465, www.facebook.com/emorytx

November 10

2018 Salute to Service 5K. Tyler. Whitehouse City Park. (903) 372-2330, itri365.com Downtown Stroll. Greenville. Throughout Downtown Greenville. (903) 457-3100, travelgreenvilletx.com Heritage Syrup Festival. Henderson.

Historic Downtown Henderson. (866) 6505529, visithendersontx.com Veterans Day Parade. Sulphur Springs.

Downtown Sulphur Springs. (903) 885-7541, sulphurspringstx.org

November 10-11

Texas Rose Horse Park Fall Horse Trials USEA Cross Country Event. Tyler. Texas Rose Horse park. (903) 882-8696, texasrosehorsepark.com continued page 22

This stately home was a gift to the City of Tyler and it is emblazoned with the historic seals and plaques that cause historians to quiver in excitement. They include a Texas Historic Landmark (1964) and a designated Historic Site by the Daughters of the American Republic (2010).

a century ago — not a single cable cord or electronic entertainment option in sight. The tiny kitchen with modest appliances and almost no counter space is a vivid reminder of how much homes and human lives have changed. Not that the kids in the group will notice or care, but it will resonate with the elders.

The original four-room house was built in 1859 just prior to the Civil War. The second story was added in 1880, and the portico and massive pillars came with a 1926 remodel. When the last owner, Sallie LeGrand, died in 1939, she left the house, all of its furnishings, and nine acres of grounds to the City of Tyler.

The Goodman-LeGrand House & Museum is located at 624 North Broadway Avenue. Admission is free with a suggested contribution of $2. They are open Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Closed on Sunday, Monday and national holidays. The LeGrand Park and Gardens are open daily from 8 a.m.

– 5 p.m. Call (903) 531-1286 and visit www.goodmanmuseum.com for more.

The rooms have the delicate period furniture and décor that was popular over

county line Upper East Side of Texas

MAGAZINE

2020

THE FUTURE OF THE UPPER EAST SIDE OF TEXAS NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD.

SUBSCRIBE NOW In honor of our 20th Anniversary in 2020, we have a SPECIAL OFFER. Subscribe now and get all issues through Nov/Dec 2020 for JUST $20!

NOTE PROMOCODE 2020-VISION countylinemagazine.com NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM

• 21

Nacogdoches Presents Dia de los Muertos Wine, Whiskey and Brew Tour

EVENTS

continued from page 21

November 17

Christmas in Crockett. Crockett. Crockett Square. (936) 544-2359, crockettareachamber.org

November 17-18

North Texas Hunter Jumper Club - Year End Show. Tyler. Texas Rose Horse Park. (903) 882-8696, texasrosehorsepark.com

November 17-24

Grinch’s Lair. Palestine. Texas Jailhouse.

903.373.8158, texasjailhouse.com

November 17- December 27

The Polar Express Train Ride. Palestine.

Texas State Railroads. (855) 632-7729, TexasStateRailroad.net

November 22

Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise. Rockwall. Lake Ray Hubbard. (214) 534-3797, dfwboatride.com

November 23-25

Guests are invited to gather at 6 p.m. November 2 for a special Dia de los Muertos costume-themed Wine, Whiskey and Brew Tour. The tour goes to three of Nacogdoches libation locations including Fredonia Brewery, Front Porch Distillery, and Naca Valley Vineyard for tastings at each. Participants are asked to dress up in their best Day of the Dead costumes, face painting and all, and compete for prizes. The bus tour includes trivia games, bad karaoke, poetry writing, and more. Tickets are $40 each and include tastings and tours and a commemorative Dia de los Muertos govino glass. Learn more at www.VistNac.com.

Henderson Celebrates 30th Annual Heritage Syrup Festival in November

Home for the Holidays — A McKinney Christmas. McKinney. Historic Downtown McKinney (972) 547-2660, visitmckinney.com

November 21- December 30

Wonderland of Lights. Marshall. Various Locations. (903) 935-4414, marshalltexas.net

November 24

Believe McKinney Fun Run. McKinney.

Historic Downtown McKinney. (972) 547-2660, visitmckinney.com Wassail Fest. Nacogdoches. Nacogdoches Main Street. (936) 564-7351, www.ci.nacogdoches.tx.us

November 28

Fall Harvest Vintner’s Dinner. Tyler.

Kiepersol Restaurant. (903) 894-3300, kiepersol. com

November 29-December 2

First Monday Trade Days. Canton. First Monday Trade Days. (903) 567-6556, firstmondaycanton.com

December 1

Gingerbread Bash. Longview. Longview World of Wonders. (903) 212-4969, longviewwow.org Scarbrough Haven Holiday Tour of Homes. Emory. (903) 473-3104, bscarbroughhaven.com Explore Emory Girls Night Out. Emory.

Downtown Emory. (903) 473-2465, emorytx.com

December 1-22 The annual Heritage Syrup Festival takes place each fall in Henderson, this year on November 10. The tradition of ribbon cane syrup making is demonstrated on the depot museum grounds with experienced syrup makers operating an antique mule powered syrup mill to produce old-fashioned cane syrup. While the syrup cooks, folk artists demonstrations take place including wood carving, blacksmithing, lace making, rope and basket making, quilting, broom making and other old-time survival skills. Live music, food and beverages, and more provide a full day of fun. Courtesy photo 22 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Living History Christmas. Longview. Gregg County Historical Museum. (903) 753-5840, Gregghistorical.com

SEE MORE EVENTS WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM

NOVEMBER 20

Livingston Lighting Ceremony 6 p.m.

Celebrate the sights and sounds of the holidays in a winter wonderland of lights.

NOVEMBER 20-DECEMBER 31 Trail of Lights, Pedigo Park Thousands of Christmas lights on display

Livingston

NOVEMBER 23-DECEMBER 29 Thursday, Friday, Saturday

Christmas Train Village

HOLIDAY FUN

At Good Golly Miss Molly’s 406 North Washington NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 2 6-8 p.m. daily

A Walk Through Bethlehem

Pedigo Park Make the journey to Bethlehem, a realistic depiction of what the small Judean town may have looked like 2,000 years ago.

HAYRIDE

Old-fashioned ride through the park with thousands of Christmas lights on display.

DECEMBER 7

Santa at Miss Effie’s Cottage Includes Historical Home Tour, Refreshments and Photo Ops

DECEMBER 8

Livingston Hometown Christmas Noon - 8 p.m.

Jingle Bell Fun Run, Horse Drawn Wagon Rides, Food Trucks, Quilt Show, Over 160 Vendors!

Lighted Christmas Parade Santa at City Hall 7 p.m.

All Events Are FREE!

6 p.m.

Dallas

Austin

Houston

www.VisitLivingstonTexas.com • (936) 327-3656 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 23

Wonderland of Lights Brings Magic to Marshall

Children and adults alike enjoy visiting with Santa in the colorful Santa’s Village with a collection of tiny homes and fun activities. Photo by Ben Daily

Millions of white lights adorn the historic Harrison County Courthouse as downtown Marshall, Texas, is transformed into a winter wonderland. Nearby businesses and residents likewise go all out with lights and decorations for the enjoyment of neighborhood driving tours.

Wonderland of Lights runs from Wednesday, November 21, to Sunday, December 30, on Tuesday through Sunday evenings from 6-9 p.m. and Saturday’s from 4-10 p.m. All Saturday events are from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. unless otherwise noted. There is no admission cost and activity ticket prices vary.

The historic Harrison County Courthouse is the crown jewel of the Wonderland of Lights festival. Located in the center of Whetsone Square, the 1901 courthouse was designed by J. Riely Gordon, and it remains one of the most famous and admired buildings in

Texas. A proud recipient of the Texas Historical Commission’s Courthouse preservation program, the courthouse was restored in 1999 and reopened in 2003. It is a frequently photographed building and provides a breathtaking backdrop for Wonderland of Lights.

All ages enjoy the outdoor ice skating rink or catching a ride on the Holly Trolley, Wonderland Express, or a roundabout on a beautifully restored vintage 1948 Herschel carousel. Families make precious memories in Santa’s Village, a collection of perfectly decorated tiny homes, each featuring fun, free activities like building a train, decorating a cookie, and visiting with the big guy himself.

Others enjoy bundling up and taking horse-drawn carriage rides on one of three carriages on call through Historic Downtown Marshall. At Telegraph Park visitors hear live music performed

24 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

by local musicians, area churches, and school choirs.

Special events are sprinkled throughout the festival season kicking off at 6 p.m. November 21 with the Opening Lighting Ceremony, complete with caroling, special performances, and the countdown to turning on the lights.

Wonderland truly begins when the big switch is flipped and the courthouse lights up against the night sky.

On National Small Business Saturday, November 24, shoppers are treated to a Wassail Walk, a competition among the downtown merchants. Wassail is a hot drink traditionally made with either beer, wine, or cider and spices. Reusable Shop Small shopping bags, pins, Continued page 26

OPPOSITE PAGE: The historic downtown courthouse in Marshall creates a magical wonderland with thousands of lights and an adjoining ice skating rink. Photo by Nancy Pasel

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 25

WONDERLAND Continued from page 24 stickers, crowns, and more are available. Merchants offer a variety of recipes, including non-alcoholic. Upon arrival, guests may check in at the visitors center downtown to pick up an event map, souvenir tasting mug, and go a’wassailing. Attendees are encouraged to take part in the voting and cast their vote for Taste of the Town, a traveling trophy award.

Other notable events include the Lighted Christmas Parade on December 1 and an ice hockey demonstration from East Texas Baptist University hockey team during Tigers On Ice on December 2. Fans cheer on runners at the lit Jingle Bell Run one mile and 5K on December 4 as they dash, dance, and prance their way across the finish line in costumes or covered in lights.

Shoppers make their lists, and can check them twice at the Outdoor Christmas Market on December 8. Vendors line North Washington Avenue and feature gifts and stocking stuffers.

Brick-and-mortar merchants are open and ready to serve as well.

Wonderland of Sites — An Art, History, and Home Tour returns December 15 with many new additions. Maps and the shuttle schedule are available at the visitor center downtown.

For last-minute shoppers, StoryFest on December 22 promises a few moments of productivity for families. Participating merchants read a classic or fun holiday book to children while Mom and Dad have a few minutes to complete their holiday gift shopping.

Downtown Marshall is home to a variety of unique, local dining experiences and numerous hotels and bed and breakfasts.

Pre-sale activity tickets are available online at wonderlandoflights.com. For further event information, visit the festival on Facebook at Wonderland of Lights or on the website. Winter weather can be unpredictable. Check the social media sites by 4 p.m. to get up-todate information on inclement weather arrangements.

TOP TO BOTTOM: Activities in downtown Marshall during Wonderland of Lights include Santa’s Village, a parade, and ice skating. Photos by Ben Daily 26 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Texas Made for the Holidays

SHOP EDOM Gift Thoughtfully This Year! open throughout the holiday season

Edom Holiday Stroll

Arts • Eats • Retreats VisitEdom.com

November 23-24

BLUE MOON GARDENS 903.852.3897

bluemoongardens.com

POTTERS BROWN STUDIO & GALLERY 903.852.6473 pottersbrown.com

ARBOR CASTLE BIRDHOUSES

DRAGONHEAD RETREAT

THE SHED CAFE

903-852-7893

903-520-2069

903.852.7791

arborcastlebirdhouses.com

dragonheadretreat.com

FB/TheShedEdomTexas

ZEKE & MARTY 903-852.3311 zekeandmarty.com

Shop at Home Small Business Saturday ****

Saturday, November 24 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Live Entertainment • Food Visit each of the participating Terrell businesses for a chance to win a gift basket worth more than $500.

“Small Business is BIG Business in Terrell!”

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 27

WINNSBORO CULTURAL ARTS DISTRICT

Best Live Music Venue!

ANNIE MAE’S COFFEE SHOP & CAFE

LIEFIE LI VINE

108 W. Elm St. - (903) 347-6510

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

COPPER LEAF DAY SPA

WinnsboroCulturalDistrict.com

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

Texas Certified Cultural Arts District

Neptune’s Car Adler & Hearne

November 11

DIRECTIONAL WELLNESS

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

THE ROOSTER CAFE

LA CONCHITA

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

THE BOWERY

111 Broadway - (903) 347-6541

Dining, Music, Arts, & Entertainment

Barrel House Bar & Grill

STAR DRAGONFLY HERBS

204 Market St. - (903) 347-1282

Hannah Kirby

December 8

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

100 East Cedar Street • 903-588-0465

200 MARKET STREET • 903-342-0686 28 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

903-342-3666

DINE. SHOP. STAY. ARTS. ENTERTAINMENT. All shows start at 7:30 PM. Tickets available online at www.winnsborocenterforthearts.com or call 903-342-0686 or pick up at Winnsboro Center for the Arts.

winnsboro floral by ashley

303 N. Main St. - (903) 347-0607

r June 25 Albert & Gage January 19

Garrett Owen

BELLA STELLA WINERY & KITCHEN

879 CR 4440 - (903) 975-0020

CLARA IDA FRANCES

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

GALLERY GIFT SHOP

200 Market St. - (903) 342-0686

February 9

ART EXHIBITIONS!

Works of Donna Page Through December 1

Men in the Arts

BONNIE’S LUNCH BOX

THEE HUBBELL HOUSE

210 N. Main St. - (903) 347-6075

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

FARMERS MARKET Nov-Mar

COUNTRYBOYS BBQ & SWEETS

December 8 - January 12

Reception, December 9, 2:30 p.m.

winnsborolocallygrown.net - (903) 629-7079

414 W. Broadway - (903) 347-6512

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

FINDERS KEEPERS ANTIQUES CULTURE CLUB, GALLERY OF ARTISTS

304 N. Main St. - (903) 347-1271

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

107 E. Elm St.

www.WINNSBOROCENTERFORTHE ARTS.COM NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 29

THE ARTS

Jac Lahav’s Great Americans Featured at Longview Museum

“The Great Americans: Works by Jac Lahav” is featured at the Longview Museum of Fine Arts through December 15. The exhibition explores identity, history, and pop culture in 29 full-length portraits. The series, which references a 2005 Discovery Channel show, The Greatest American, asked U.S. citizens to vote for the greatest American.

Oprah Winfrey was voted into the Top Ten, eliminating medical researcher and virologist Jonas Salk, the discoverer and developer of one of the first successful polio vaccines.

Lahav combines the concept of celebrity and image consumption versus achievements and contributions. Does fame play a role in how history sees America’s historical figures? Does history do justice for the people portrayed in this exhibition? How do we reconcile the famous Americans’ celebrity status with their achievements? Lahav plays with notions of group identity, individual identity, personal biographies, factual biographies, how clothing reflects identity, fashion, and celebrity. All these ideas come together in this unique series.

Abshalom Jac Lahav is an artist, writer, and curator. He is best known for his unique style of portraiture. Born in Jerusalem, Israel, in 1977, Lahav’s family moved to the United States when he was four. Lahav studied psychology at Wesleyan University and received his Bachelor of Arts in 2000. After this, he studied painting before earning his Master of Fine Arts from Brooklyn College in 2008.

Visually stunning through scale, composition, and use of color, Lahav often presents his audience with an unreadable representation of his subjects. By creating a sense of ambiguity and uncertainty, Lahav questions what is known and what is unknown, notions of personal and political, and what is abstract and what is representational.

Lahav is also known for his series “48 Jews.” Both exhibits have shown at museums such as Richmond Art Museum, Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art, The Oregon Jewish Museum and Jewish Museum of Florida. He is the founder of the Midnight Society, an artist-run curatorial project based in Brooklyn, New York.

Learn more about the artist at www.jaclahav.com. Visit the museum Tuesday through Saturday. Call (903) 7538103 and visit www.lmfa.org for more information.

At right is one of Lahav’s portraitures featured in the exhibition at the Longview Museum of Fine Arts through December 15. It is of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the second female justice of four to be confirmed to the Supreme Court of the United States.

30 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

The Generous Kimbells of Whiteright Texas Small Town Youth Marry, Amass Fortune, Create Legacy With Kimbell Art Museum

In 1998, the American Institute of Architects gave the museum its prestigious Twenty-five Year Award, which is awarded to no more than one building per year. Robert Campbell, architectural critic for the Boston Globe and winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism, declared it to be “the greatest American building of the second half of the 20th century.”

Kay and Velma Kimbell from Whiteright, Texas, spent their fortune on art and funding the Kimbell Art Museum. Courtesy photo

By Steve Freeman The Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth easily ranks as one of the top visual art venues in Texas, but few may know that its origin is tied to an art-loving couple who themselves originated from rural Upper East Side of Texas.

Kay and Velma Kimbell donated their own art collection and some of their personal fortune to create the museum. Born in 1886, Kay attended school in Whiteright, Texas, where he met his future wife, Velma Fuller, born in Whiteright in July 1887. They married December 24, 1910. After a visit to see paintings on display at the Fort Worth Public Library in 1931, both were committed to collecting art as well as making art available to the general public somehow, someday. By 1936, they had established the Kimbell Art Foundation along with her sister and her husband, Dr. and Mrs. Coleman Carter.

Kay Kimbell was the head of more than 70 corporations doing business in flour, feed, oil, groceries, and insurance. Over the years, they had amassed a multi-

million-dollar art collection made up mostly of European Old Masters.

Inside the museum today are masterpieces of world acclaim. The best-known works are Michelangelo’s “The Torment of Saint Anthony,” Picasso’s classic Cubist painting “Man with a Pipe,” El Greco’s “Portrait of Dr. Francisco de Pisa,” Rubens’ “Equestrian Portrait of the Duke of Buckingham,” Gauguin’s “Self-Portrait,” and Cézanne’s “Man in a Blue Smock.” Living up to the founders’ vision, the museum has broadened its collection to include art from any period in history and in any medium or style. The Kimbell also attracts visiting exhibits of international renown.

For more information about the museum, visit www.kimbellart.org.

Kay died in 1964, before the dream of an actual art museum for Fort Worth and all of Texas came true, but Velma helped turn the first shovel of earth at groundbreaking ceremonies for the museum in 1969.

True to the art benefactors’ belief that an art museum should itself be a work of art, the foundation secured famed architect Louis I. Kahn. He created what is considered one of the finest art museums ever built. His inspiration of finding the perfect balance between light and structure is evident in each part of the museum that visitors enter.

Velma was honored by the Cultural Achievement Award of the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce in 1972 and the Patron of the Arts Award of the Arts Council of Greater Fort Worth in 1973.

She was also named Outstanding Citizen of the Year by the Exchange Club of Fort Worth in 1973. Velma’s health was poor for the last two years before her death on April 24, 1982.

“Portrait of May Sartoris” by Frederic Leighton is one of the many world-acclaimed masterpieces at the Kimbell Art Museum.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 31

STAGE

It’s Showtime at the GMA Set to perform on the Greenville Municipal Auditorium (GMA) stage November 11 is “My Funny Valentine” celebrating romantic stage and screen songs. Ireland’s foremost trumpeter Niall O’Sullivan and international award-winning vocalist Shona Henneberry, along with piano accompaniment, perform showbiz favorites like “Moon River,” “Stardust,” and “My Funny Valentine.”

November 16 at the GMA features the Dallas Symphony Orchestra with “A Bernstein Tribute.” In its 45th season, the concert is conducted by Rei Hotoda, bringing Leonard Bernstein’s legacy to life with his landmark work from West Side Story, Candide, On the Town, and more.

The GMA presents the Sherman Symphony Orchestra Christmas Pops Center at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, December 6.

Holiday favorites include “Sleigh Ride”

and the audience is invited to sing along and to play along with “guess the movie or TV show” tunes.

“A Christmas With Shoji” returns to the GMA December 10. Branson’s legendary Shoji Tabuchi along with his family presents a high energy, family variety show.

Shoji has been featured on 60 Minutes and Good Morning America and played for presidents and dignitaries around the world. He’s performed on the Grand Ole Opry an impressive 27 times and played with many country greats including Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, and George Jones.

The Nutcracker is presented by Studio A Dance Co. at the GMA Sunday, December 16. This annual tradition has students and parents dancing their way through the holiday classic including

Shoji Tabuchi brings his family show to the GMA Stage December 10. Courtesy photo

favorite characters The Mouse King and The Sugar Plum Fairy.

For tickets or more information visit showtimeatthegma.com or call (903) 457-3126.

Ten Tenors in Texarkana. Australian group The Ten Tenors bring their charm, camaraderie and vocal power to the Perot Theatre in Texarkana 7:30 p.m. December 21. They have performed with legends such as Willie Nelson, John Travolta, Rod Stewart, and many others. Their show, “Home for the Holidays,” promises to set the mood for a joyous season. Courtesy photo 32 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

ARTS EVENTS

Dickens’ Christmas Carol Shows in Athens

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

Through November 18

Commanding Space: Women Sculptors of Texas. Fort Worth. Amon Carter Museum of American Art. (817) 738.1933, cartermuseum. org

Through December 1

Donna Page Exhibition. Winnsboro.

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

Through December 2

Apertures of the Mind: Works by Abhidnya Ghuge. Tyler Museum of Art, (903) 595-1001, www.tylermuseum.org

Through December 15

The Great Americans: Works by Jac Lahav.

Longview. LMFA ArtWorks. (903) 753-8103, lmfa.org The Many Scenes of Jan Statman.

Longview. LMFA ArtWorks. (903) 753-8103, lmfa.org

Through January 6, 2019

This & That: Recent Acquisitions. Tyler.

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

November 3

Henderson County Performing Arts Center brings a holiday performance to the stage November 29-December 8. Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol never fails to bring the holiday spirit to audiences young and old. Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man, receives a Christmas Eve visit from the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future. He becomes a changed man, joins the festivities and treats everyone better, as Tiny Tim exclaims, “God bless us everyone!” Call (903) 675-3908 for more information and visit hcpac. org. Courtesy photo

50th Anniversary Gala. Longview. Longview Museum of Fine Arts. (903) 236-9739, longviewsymphony.org

November 9-10

Winnsboro Art & Wine Festival. Downtown Winnsboro. (903) 850-1772, winnsboroonlineguide.com

presents...

STAGE EVENTS November 8

The Sound of Music. Tyler. Tyler Cowan Center. (903) 566-7141, cowancenter.org

November 8-11

Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs. Tyler.

Tyler Civic Theatre Center. (903) 592-0561, tylercivictheatre.com

November 9-10

Doublewide Texas Christmas. Edom. Edom Community Center. (903) 852-2311, edomtexas. com

November 29- December 8

A Christmas Carol. Athens. Henderson County Performing Arts Center. (903) 675.3908, hcpac.org

Home for the Holidays

r 21 e b m e c e Friday, D7:30pm TICKE8T, S$38 & $21* $60, $4 dent ID *With Stu

December 7-16

A Motown Christmas. Tyler. Tyler Civic Theatre Center. (903) 592-0561, tylercivictheatre.com Elf Jr. Henderson. Henderson Civic Center.

(903) 657-2968, hendersoncivictheatre.org

Sponsored

TRAHC.ORG

in part by:

903.792.4992 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 33

LITERARY

New Herb Marlow Old West Book Released “Square-Toed Boots.” In a cow town, his farmer’s boots appear to make him fair game but, when four cowboys dare to insult his wife, they’re about to get a lesson in good manners.

“Come Morning.” At 12, Sean Mixus can handle a Sharps .50 rifle like nobody’s business but putting up with a bath at his sister’s house every day forces him to consider O’Reilly and the trail herd as his best escape.

“Gold Is Where You Find It.” Marcus and Saul swindle a greedy banker into buying a worthless gold mine and then leave town. They’re living in what they believe is the lap of luxury when they read about a gold strike -- right where their false map sent the banker!

Writer’s Exchange Publishing recently released Dangerous Ground, a collection of 10 Old West short stories, available now on www.amazon.com.

The publisher invites readers to revisit the wild, wild west during a time when unwritten rules of survival were never formal but respected everywhere on the range. This collection of 10 rollicking short stories, includes: “Dangerous Ground.” The town marshal quits his job, yet he’s reluctant to leave town once he hears about the mayor’s plot to steal $200,000 in gold.

“Out of the Desert.” Undercover Deputy U.S. Marshal Dan Boone suspects a banker’s plot to steal a gold shipment.

“The Hero of Lost Creek.” A crippled horse breaker turns hero when he foils cattle rustlers and wins the heart of the boss’s daughter.

“The Trail to Nowhere.” With Indians hot on his heels, a naked trapper and former schoolteacher runs into the forest in the dead of winter and uses little more than ingenuity to thwart his enemies and get all his stuff back.

“Quickdraw.” Using a special arm harness and pieces of an old corset, Walker shoots it out with the town bully.

“Mad Dog Muncie.” Two scoundrels at Fort Clark are cheating folks and selling boys into slavery … but then Mad Dog Muncie appears to right a few wrongs.

“Curley’s Kids.” Curley Samson is a lone trapper until he rescues two orphan kids and a pretty young woman and finds himself rescued from a life of loneliness in the process.

 POETRY

The Pulse of the Ages

It’s the blush of time in a sunset, the dance of roses in a glance.

It’s the persimmon fire on a hill, the meteors within a man.

It’s the comets of illusion, the jazz of rain.

It’s the poetry of seagulls, the chant of the chains.

It’s the new bride glimpsed in a snowstorm, the perfume of summer dusk.

It’s the peeling of gypsy paint on walls too shaky to touch.

It’s the twisting of the moonbeams, the flavors of the dew.

It’s the pulse of the ages that is living now in you.

Darrell Lindsey Nacogdoches

34 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Geddie Releases 30th Book; Writer Is Part of the Story Local author Tom Geddie’s 30th book, The Creator’s Dilemmas, is a personal fantasy in which he enters the fictional world he created in a dozen earlier novels to meet face to face with some of the major characters, though only one of the characters knows who he is. The premise is that “Tom Geddie” travels to a fictional university, Terlingua Tech, in the Big Bend of Texas, where he teaches a summer creative writing class.

Among the characters he will talk with are three who represent simplified versions of Freud’s id, ego, and super ego.

The id is Jolene Dante, a woman who wants immediate gratification after fleeing her home when she was 12 to escape abuse and spending five years on the road before she began getting her life together. She now produces and directs independent movies in Los Angeles The ego is Magan Marshall, a former allAmerican basketball player who is now married and has a four-year-old daughter. Magan, the director of a nonprofit organization, the Guadalupe Wilde Society, nicknamed the Wilde Bunch, is entrenched in the mainstream and its expectation of excelling by society’s norms.

The super ego is Jonnie Meadows, best friend and former college teammate of Magan as well as a friend of Jolene’s.

Jonnie teaches cultural anthropology and tries to balance the id and ego parts of her personality.

Local Author Pens Boomer/ Senior Murder Mystery

The more practical of the two, Rose Ellen sometimes has to rein in Pearl, who has a hankering to skinny dip at midnight, dance on a tabletop, and take belly dancing lessons. So when a third murder victim turns up in their quiet town of Tyler, Texas, it doesn’t surprise Rose Ellen that Pearl thinks they should investigate. The murder victims have all been women in their sixties who were stabbed after being strangled to death.

In a bizarre twist, each woman is found holding $17.

Along the way, surprises abound as “Tom” learns more about his own characters and encounters several new ones he didn’t know existed.

“I don’t believe I can write a more honest fiction than this personal fantasy,” Geddie says.

He lives in Ben Wheeler after a career as a journalist, business communicator, and occasional creative writing instructor. Professional clients ranged from Fortune 500 companies to small nonprofits.

He was a two-year director at large on the global board of the International Association of Business Communicators; Dallas/IABC president, and winner of 101 awards for hands-on work on communication programs; measurement; publications; news, feature, series, and interpretive writing; photography; publication design; speech writing; and marketing programs and collateral.

Readers praise his work and thoughtfulness: “One of the most profoundly thoughtful people I know.” – Cyd Cassone “ ... Not only has your writing been a big part of my life, but so has your integrity, quiet compassion, and humor.”

– Elizabeth Burnam “I cannot count the times you have brought joy, introspection, or just plain wisdom to me. And you share your heart with others.” – Linda Parker Streeter “Tom has a way of saying things some of us feel, but can’t voice or write down in words.” – Clent Larry Tucker “The best writer I have ever known.” – Hank Beukema His earlier published works include novels and short stories, poetry, two memoirs, and a collection of music appreciation columns for Dallas-based Buddy Magazine. He’s also written for County Line Magazine.

ately refers to Rose Ellen as “Ex.” Since Pearl’s husband died, the two hang out regularly, attending potlucks and boot scooting at the local Tyler Senior Society dances. They also watch a lot of crime shows.

The Seventeen Dollar Murders: A Boomer/Senior Mystery

by Melinda Richarz Lyons Reviewed by Linda Ayers Rose Ellen and Pearl are East Texas gals. Born and raised here, they walk the walk and talk the talk. The two women are now in their sixties, and prefer to be called boomer/seniors rather than “seniors,” which designates someone older, like their friend Peggy, who celebrated her 90th birthday dancing at the senior center.

Rose Ellen and Pearl have been friends since high school, and became kin when Rose Ellen married Pearl’s brother. The marriage didn’t last, but the women’s friendship did, and now Pearl affection-

After an unnerving experience at the Ben Wheeler Feral Hog Festival leaves the two crouching under a picnic table, Rose Ellen is convinced to join Pearl in her sleuthing. After all, the two had always agreed to live each day as if it were their last.

This cozy tale has the perfect blend of mystery and humor. For readers who know that age is just a number, this fun mystery will have them agreeing with Pearl and Rose Ellen that “...East Texas was a perfect place to stay engaged and young at heart.”

About the author: Melinda Richarz Lyons lives in Tyler, Texas. Once a Kilgore College Rangerette, she now performs the Charleston with a senior dance group at local assisted-living centers and nursing homes. She is the author of several books, both fiction and nonfiction. This is her first Boomer/Senior mystery. The book is available as a paperback or Ebook from Amazon. www.

MelindaLyons.weebly.com

Pulpwood Queens Girlfriends Weekend Set The nationally-known Pulpwood Queens Book Club holds its annual Girlfriends Weekend January 17-19, 2019, at the Jefferson Transportation and Visitors Center in historic downtown Jefferson. The event is co-hosted by club creator Kathy Murphy of Hawkins and Texas author Reavis Wortham. Keynote speakers include Ann Weisgarber, River Jordan, Ann Wertz Garvin, and Pat Conroy’s poet brother, Tim Conroy, and almost 50 authors are present for the three-day event. Pictured is Jan Doerr and Sharon Feldt of Sulphur Springs at last year’s Big Hair Ball. Photo by April Canik NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 35

MUSIC Boogie Woogie Birthplace Is Official

See www.countylinemagazine.com for extensive music listings.

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

Every Thursday through Saturday

Live Music at the Forge. Ben Wheeler. The Forge. (903) 833-5970, theforgebenwheeler.com

Every Friday and Saturday

Live Music at Moore’s Store. Ben Wheeler.

Moore’s Store. (903) 833-5100, mooresstore.com

November 1

Owen Tiner LIVE at The Garage.

Gladewater. The Central Station Brick & Brew.

(903) 374-4700, facebook.com/Thecentralstation Marshall organizers brought Boogie King Nat Dove to town a few years ago for a special Boogie Woogie Wednesday event. Plans are underway to bring more music of this genre to the “Birthplace of Boogie Woogie” in the coming year. Courtesy photo

In the Harrison County logging camps of the Texas and Pacific Railway, the throbbing beat of boogie-woogie was created by newly freed African-Americans.

Recently the Harrison County Historical Commission and local citizens in Marshall accomplished a long-time goal of getting a Texas Historical Commission plaque erected in the town to honor their city as “The Birthplace of Boogie Woogie.” The story on the marker is written by Jack Canson and is based on many years of research by musicologist Dr. John Tennison. It reads as follows: “According to oral tradition and documented evidence, the Boogie Woogie musical genre, with its driving, iconic left-hand rhythm, originated in the area of Marshall, Harrison County, in the early 1870s. During that decade, Marshall became the headquarters of the Texas & Pacific Railway Company and a hub for railroad transportation of cotton, timber, and passengers, creating employment for recently emancipated African American laborers. Many African Americans worked in logging camps cutting trees and loading logs for locomotives to haul to sawmills, and most logging camps had a piano in the barrel house to keep the workers entertained in the camps at night.

“It was in these barrel houses of East Texas logging camps where the first Boogie Woogies were played as largely untrained piano players developed

techniques to entertain working-class audiences under loud, chaotic, and often dangerous conditions. The driving left-hand bass patterns that are uniquely characteristic of Boogie Woogie piano, so highly suggestive of a steam locomotive chugging over iron rails, clearly are inspired and influenced by the sounds of the logging camp and the rail yard.

“Itinerant piano players rode the rails, often performing in exchange for free rides, and the music traveled with them, first to red-light districts of Texarkana and Shreveport, followed by Houston and New Orleans, then gradually reaching African-American neighborhoods in St. Louis, Kansas City and Chicago.

Brothers George and Hersal Thomas were among the first to publish sheet music for Boogie Woogie which they said they first heard in East Texas. Boogie Woogie masters Huddle ‘Lead Belly’ Ledbetter, Floyd Dixon, and Dave Alexander (Omar Sharriff) grew up in the Marshall area. An East Texas original, Boogie Woogie may still be found in many genres of music today.”

The marker is located in the Ginocchio Historic District on North Washington Avenue within viewing distance of the historic Texas and Pacific Railway Depot. Area organizers are promising an increased number of events for 2019 to continue their celebrations of Boogie Woogie music in its birth town. To plan a visit to Marshall, go to www.marshalltexas.net.

36 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

November 2-3

Bob Wills Fiddle Festival & Contest.

Greenville. Downtown Greenville. (903) 4573126 bobwillsfiddlefest.com

November 2

Downtown Live featuring The Mansion Family. Longview. Heritage Plaza. (903) 3311469, visitlongviewtexas.com

November 3

Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers.

Greenville. Greenville Municipal Auditorium.

(903) 457-3126, showtimeatthegma.com Virtuoso Horn Duo. Mt. Vernon. Mount Vernon Music Hall. 1(903) 563-3780 mountvernonmusic.org

November 6

Dustin Becker & Friends. Tyler. Stanley’s Famous PIt BBQ. (903) 593-0311, stanleysfamous.com

November 10

Alder & Hearne. Winnsboro. Winnsboro Center for the Arts. (903) 342-0686, winnsborocenterforthearts.com Brown Randy & Friends. Edom. The Old Firehouse. (903) 852-2781, jeffreylancephotography.com/theoldfirehouse Tony Orlando. Crockett. Crockett Civic Center. (936)544-4276, pwfaa.org

November 11

Sunday Afternoon Classical Series.

Winnsboro. Winnsboro Center for the Arts.

(903) 342-0686, winnsborocenterforthearts.com

November 15

Ladies Night Out ‘18. Jacksonville. Norman Activity Center. (903) 586-2217, jacksonvilletexas.com

November 16

Dallas Symphony Orchestra: A Bernstein Tribute. Greenville. Greenville Municipal Auditorium. (903) 457-3126, showtimeatthegcontinued page 33

See Bellamy Brothers Christmas Show in Linden, Music City Texas

The Bellamy Brothers are set to perform at 8 p.m. December 8 at Music City Texas Theater in Linden.

Tickets are $35. Call (903) 756-9934 or purchase online at musiccitytexas.org.

Austin’s Wood & Wire Perform in Greenville

Austin-based band, Wood & Wire, take the Texan Theater stage in Greenville November 16. Tickets are $110, which includes the show, free parking, full four-course dinner, luxurious seating, table service and all gratuities. Sometimes defined as bluegrass music, what comes out of this group is something entirely its own. Check it out before going on woodandwireband.com.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 37

Like your Christmas old-fashioned?

We have a

If you’re looking for an old-fashioned Christmas, look no further than Texas’ oldest town. Our historic Nine Flags Christmas Festival runs mid-November through December and includes events for the entire family. From the Loblolly Model Train Display at the Railroad Depot, to the charming lighted parade downtown, we have seasonal fun for all. Go to VisitNac.com/nine-flags to plan your holiday stay today.

888-564-7351

| VisitNac.com/nine-flags

38 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

MUSIC continued from page 30 ma.com Wood and Wire. Greenville. The Texan Theater. (903) 259-6360, texantheatergreenville. com

November 17

Salt City Open House. Grand Saline.

Participating Shops. (903) 962-3122 x7, grandsalinemainstreet.com

VISIT

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

November 18

Nac Half. Nacogdoches. Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital. (903) 571-5579, itri365. com

November 21

Big Funky Cloud. Tyler. Stanley’s Famous Pit BBQ. (903) 593-0311, stanleysfamous.com

November 23

Edom Holiday Stroll. Edom. Van Zandt Arts District. (844) 633-6689, visitedom.com

Come Stay & Play.

We Aim to Please!

November 24

Beth Wood. Edom. The Old Firehouse. (903) 852-2781, jeffreylancephotography.com/theoldfirehouse TJ & Donny. Tyler. Stanley’s Famous PIt BBQ. (903) 593-0311, stanleysfamous.com

December 6

Riders in the Sky with The Quebe Sisters.

Mt. Pleasant. Whatley Center for Performing Arts. (903) 434-8181, whatleycenter.com Sherman Symphony Orchestra presents Christmas Pops! Greenville. Greenville Municipal Auditorium. (903) 457-3126, showtimeatthegma.com

December 8

Christmas with Bellamy Brothers. Linden.

Music City. (903) 756-9934, musiccitytexas.org Deck the Halls with Buddy Holly. Tyler.

Liberty Hall Theatre. (903) 595 7274, libertytyler.com Hannah Kirby. Winnsboro. Winnsboro Center for the Arts. (903) 342-0686

winnsborocenterforthearts.com

903.887.1087

Miss Demeanor & The Groove Felons Christmas Concert. Winnsboro. Winnsboro Center for the Arts. (903) 342-0686, winnsborocenterforthearts.com

Firehouse. (903) 852-2781, jeffreylancephotography.com/theoldfirehouse

The Robert Cray Band. Tyler. Tyler Cowan Center. (903) 566-7141, cowancenter.org

December 18

December 10

Shoji Tabuchi presents A Christmas With Shoji. Greenville. Greenville Municipal Auditorium (903) 457-3126, showtimeatthegma.com

December 15

A Very Merry Night. Longview. SE Belcher Center. (903) 233-3080, longviewsymphony.org

Tom Prasada-Rao. Edom. The Old

www.gunbarrelcity.net www.gunbarrelcityfestivals.net

MORE FOOD & FUN!

The Texas Tenors-Deep in the Heart of Christmas. Crockett. Crockett Civic Center.

(936) 544-4276, pwfaa.org

December 21

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

December 28

countylinemagazine.com/ Food-Drink

The TenTenors Holiday: Home for the Holidays. Texarkana. Regional Arts Center.

(903) 792-8681, trahc.org Rodney Carrington. Texarkana. Regional Arts Center. (903) 792-8681 trahc.org

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 39

Presents

HENDERSON HAPPENINGS The Only Folk Life Festival in East Texas

Dec. 7,8, & 9 14,15, & 16

Fri & Sat 7:30 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m.

122 E. Main St. 903- 657-2968 www.hendersoncivictheatre.org

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony & Parade Tree Lighting, Nov. 29th at 5:30 p.m.

Christmas Parade, Nov. 29th at 6:00 p.m.

Heritage Square • Downtown Henderson

30th Annual

HERITAGE SYRUP TRAVELING EXHIBITION FESTIVAL TRAVELING EXHIBITION

NOVEMBER 10, 2018 Rotary Club of Henderson

and

HENDERSON, TEXAS

Invite you to the lighting of

• SUGAR CANE SYRUP MAKING • ANTIQUE CARS AND TRACTORS • FOLK ART DEMONSTRATIONS • MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT • SHOPPING VENDORS AND MORE

at Lake Forest Park • December 1, 2018 at 5:00 pm

WWW.VISITHENDERSONTX.COM • 1-866-650-5529

The Christmas Trees

EXPLORE THE SCIENCE BEHIND SPORTS!

Visitors test agility, endurance, speed and strength as they learn about their bodies.

TRAVELING EXHIBITION TRAVELING EXHIBITION

TRAVELING EXHIBITION

Open Tuesday thru Saturday Tuesday - Friday: 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Saturday: 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

ScienceCenter@tjc.edu 903-510-2312 40 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

1500 East Main Ashland Oregon 97520 541-482-6767 exhibits@scienceworksmuseum.org

sciencecenter.tjc.edu

Sportsology is an exhibit th explores the science behind sports. Visitors can test their agility, endurance speed and strength as they learn more about their bodies.

Destination

MINEOLA for the Holidays!

Shop Historic Downtown Mineola this Holiday Season!

Unique Stores, Restaurants, Antiques and More

November 3 Pedal for Paws 9 a.m.

Mineola Nature Preserve mineolametriccentury.com 903.638.6902 November 29 Jingle Bell Bash Santa Visits 6 p.m. Mineola Civic Center 903.569.6115

November 30 Main Street Window Decorating Contest 903-569-6183 Downtown Mineola Nov 30-Dec 2 and Dec 7-9 “A Doublewide Christmas” lakecountryplayhouse.com

December 1 Mineola League of the Arts Bazaar 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 903.569.8877 Mineola Tour of Homes Mineola Landmark Commission 1 – 4 p.m. 903.569.6183 Carriage Rides, Music

Christmas Parade 5:30 p.m. Downtown Mineola Santa Visits

December 16 2 p.m.

December 18 7:30 p.m.

“Seasonal Soundings” 7:30 p.m. Lake Country Symphonic Band lakecountryplayhouse.com

1.800.MINEOLA www.mineola.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 41

FOOD & DRINK

Oxbow Serves Up Perfect Slices of Pie

By P.A. Geddie Sitting in Oxbow Bakery on a Friday afternoon, guests see a steady stream of customers continues pouring in the front door looking for just the right flavor of heavenly pie.

Nestled along Caddo Creek in Old Town Palestine — a charming district located about two blocks west of the Anderson County courthouse — the Oxbow was built in the 1900s as an old mule barn. In 2009 it was transformed into Oxbow and today it’s operated by a mother-and-son team -- Becky and David Wolfe.

The family bakes 50 to 60 pies each day they are open with both Becky and David preparing family recipes.

Oxbow serves more than a dozen flavors including Chocolate Meringue, Coconut Meringue, Buttermilk, Chocolate Pecan, Pecan, Cherry, Cherry Cream Cheese, Banana Blueberry, Pecan Praline Cream, Lemon Icebox, Chocolate Icebox, Sweet Potato, and Pumpkin and Strawberry in season. Visitors can get a

slice for about $3.50 or buy a whole pie for $15 to $21.

The ambience at Oxbow invites guests to sit in vintage booths or out on the front porch. Colorful signs line the walls and old barrels, boxes, and gadgets of old line tables and shelves, taking visitors back to simpler times and a brief escape from life today.

While in Old Town Palestine, planning a meal or quenching a thirst at Pint and Barrel Drafthouse across the street from Oxbow is a must -- exceptional sandwiches and soups plus craft beers and wine.

Next to Oxbow is Wells Creek Crossing, a good shopping destination with an eclectic assortment of home decor, art, lotions, candles, jewelry and more.

Cream & Coffee is adjacent offering a full line of coffee and espresso drinks as well as smoothies, chai teas, creamsicles, and Italian sodas.

Across the street from there is The Shelton Gin which features live music, sometimes.

42 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

Old Town Palestine was once the industrial center of the town from Indian trading along the creek to cotton processing at the gin. During the 1900s a tin barn there served as the “Illuminary Barn” for the city where the equipment was stored to light the gas street lamps daily before electric street lights took over. Today, the area is a very inviting space for dining and relaxing and of course the perfect place for an afternoon piece of pie.

The bakery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday at 215 East Crawford Street. Call (903) 7235100 and visit www.oxbowpies.com for more information.

BELOW: Oxbow is located in a renovated mule barn, serving America’s favorite dessert since 2009. RIGHT: Top, clockwise - the interior of Oxbow is reminiscent of an old-fashioned kitchen and several booths allow guests to have a seat to enjoy delicious slices of pie. Three favorites include Buttermilk, Pecan Praline Cream, and Banana Blueberry. Co-owner David Wolfe takes a minute to pose with front counter staff Janis Foster. Photos by P.A.Geddie and Tracy Torma

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 43

Best Steakhouse

County Line Magazine Hall of Fame

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

With U

Book Your Holiday Reservations early!

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

Available for Special Events

Celebration Dining District “Where the Locals Eat!”

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www.sulphurspringstx.org

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

Open 24/7 at

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903.873.2225

www.fourwindssteakhouse.com

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I-20 & Hwy 19 in Canton, TX An East Texas Tradition Burgers, Premium Hand-Dipped Ice Cream, Breakfast Anytime, and more

Open 24/7 at

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

44 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

903-567-6551 • dairypalace.com

An East Texas Tradition RESTAURANT Burgers, Premium Hand-Dipped Ice Cream, LIVE MUSIC FULL BAR Breakfast Anytime, and more MOORE FUN! Ben Wheeler, TX

Open 24/7 at mooresstore.com

I-20 & Hwy 19 in903.833.5100 Canton, TX 903-567-6551 • dairypalace.com

Ringing in the New Year

in the Upper East Sideof Texas The world’s getting ready to ring in 2019 on December 31 and those looking for something special — but maybe not too rowdy — have some good choices in the Upper East Side of Texas. Some, like the delightful Four Winds Steakhouse in Wills Point as well as other locations, are already booked up for the evening since early October so mark your calendars for next year. Others may still have a spot just right for you.

Greenville

The Texan Theater at 2712 Lee Street in Greenville is featuring a special New Year’s Eve dinner and entertainment.

Call (903) 259-6360 for details and visit www.texantheatergreenville.com The Corner Street Pub, 2702 Lee Street in Greenville, celebrates with drink specials, live entertainment, and the kitchen’s open through midnight. They serve 14 specialty craft drafts, wine, and have a full bar and a food menu. Call (903) 455-8881 for details.

There’s a nice Best Western and numerous other hotels less than 10 minutes from downtown. Also, Greenville now has Uber and another transportation service called The Connection.

Jefferson

at Rick’s Chophouse or check out the Eclair Bistro, an elegant eatery offering a contemporary spin on classic French cuisine. An interesting twist at this place is they are the first in the region to offer a 3D Digital Mapping Projection experience at your dining table. A graphical projection system displays straight down onto the table with images like butterflies on your plate, a jazz player, and others that creates a memorable and unique dining experience. Check out their menu and other information on www.eclairbistro.com. On New Year’s Day, there’s plenty of shopping and dining along the interstate and check out Moviehouse & Eatery on Highway 121.

They serve “scratch food” like Cheesy Cavatappi and Lollipop Chicken as well as beer, wine, and cocktails.

Nacogdoches

The Fredonia Hotel in Nacogdoches is a one-stop shop for New Year’s fun this year. Enjoy staying over in this remodeled historic hotel and an evening of food, drinks, and dancing with live entertainment. The hotel has the 1st City Cafe, the Nine Flags Bar, and the Republic Steakhouse. A New Year’s Day brunch is also served. Call (936) 564-1234 and visit www.thefredonia.com for confirmation and reservations.

cludes dinner, live music, and competitions for best handmade accessories.

Tickets are $100 per couple and at the end of the night someone will walk away with $10,000. Instead of table centerpieces, guests find tinkering materials to build their own light up hat or bow tie or other creative accessories. Cocktail attire and advanced tickets are required. Call (903) 723-3014 and visit www.visitpalestine.com/NYETinkerBash.

Rockwall The Hilton at The Harbor in Rockwall is a wonderful getaway with a great view of Lake Ray Hubbard. Several restaurants are open for New Year’s Eve -- call ahead to verify. The Harbor Lights double-decker power party boat is featuring Around the World New Year’s Eve cruises on the lake. There are four cruises coinciding with “midnight” in Paris, London, New York, and Dallas. Guests can bring their own picnic including libations.

Make reservations at www.dfwboatride. com or call (214) 534-3797.

Tyler Looking for a family-friendly special New Year’s getaway? Check out Jellystone Park at Whispering Pines. This fun, Jellystone-themed resort has RV and tent sites in addition to cabin rentals.

Featuring costumed characters like Yogi Bear who roam around and interact with guests, it is a great destination for families. Situated on 47 acres north of Tyler — between Lindale and Hawkins — it promises a pancake breakfast New Years Eve day and starts the new year off with a healthy 5K run. Call (903) 858-2405 or visit www.jellystoneatwhisperingpines. com for more information.

There are two quite-famous hotels in downtown Jefferson — The Excelsior House Hotel and Jefferson Hotel — and numerous bed and breakfasts close by. Sammy’s PrimeTime, McGarrity’s, KnightLight Tavern, Kitt’s, and The Franchise have live entertainment and specials for New Year’s Eve. Lone Star Carriage Company is available for carriage rides.

For more information about a Jefferson New Year’s getaway, call (903) 665-3733 or go to visitjeffersontexas.com.

Palestine

Van Zandt Arts & Cultural District

McKinney

For those a bit more “curious” try the New Year’s Eve Tinker Bash at the Curious Museum, 1301 South Royall Street.

The evening kicks off at 8 p.m. and in-

The Forge and Moore’s Store in Ben Wheeler will have dinner, live music, and midnight specials. Andie Kay Joyner and Guthrie Kennard are at The Forge with a reservations/dinner show at 6:45 p.m. and a no reservations show at 8:45 p.m. $10 cover for either. Call (903) 833-5970 for reservations. Wesley Pruitt brings his annual New Year’s Eve show to Moore’s Store. The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Mariott in Van is about a 10 minute drive or numerous bed and breakfasts and Air BnBs are close by — see www.VanZandtACD.com to explore lodging options and other things to do in the district.

Get a reservation at The Grand Hotel in downtown McKinney, www.grandhotelmckinney.com. Enjoy dinner there

An evening at The Redlands Hotel in historic downtown Palestine is a treat all its own to visit for a special occasion such as this. Enjoy appetizers and drinks in the full bar and fine dining in Red Fire Grille. If it’s not too cold, enjoy the rooftop to cap off the evening listening to the trains go by. The suites have a nice “getaway” feel to them with plenty of room to stretch out. Call (903) 729-2345 and visit www.redlandshistoricinn.com.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 45

EXPLORE WOOD MeetingCOUNTY the locals has never been so memorable

This & That Recent Acquisitions

September 30 through January 6 www.woodcountytx.com “Beyond the Lure of Big Fish”

www.woodcountytx.com Wood County Tourism

Tyler Museum of Art 1300 South Mahon Avenue • Tyler, TX www.tylermuseum.org

381 W. Lennon Dr. 903-473-0061 EXPLORE EMORY

1026 E. Lennon Dr. 903-473-2022

46 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

EXPERIENCE LIFE IN THE 1930S OILFIELD

T

he East Texas Oil Museum houses

an authentic recreation of oil discovery and

production in the early 1930s in the largest oil

field in the United States.

We can’t wait to show you around!

For information about tour times and availability, please call (903) 983-8295

Space Available for the Shop or Business of Your Dreams! Call 202-270-4276 2610 Lee Street · Downtown Greenville · UptownForum.net

1301 S. Henderson Blvd, Kilgore, TX

county line

explore guides MAGAZINE

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

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

www.CountyLineMagazine.com/Explore-Guides NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 47

#HeritageProud

putting the work in Heritage Land Bank is proud to support the young men and women of 4-H and FFA. Brooklyn and Bailey Gilleland are two sisters with a lot of ambition and a talent for raising everything from award-winning lambs to show-stopping steers. Supported by their family and Livestock Loans from Heritage Land Bank, these two set themselves apart from the competition with their drive, dedication and can-do attitudes. In the future, they both hope to pass on the lessons they’ve learned to their own families and raise another generation of hardworking, passionate ranchers.

Heritage Land Bank finances the future. Find out what we can do for you.

903.534.4975 HeritageLandBank.com/CountyLine EQUAL HOUSING LENDER

NMLS# 408898