Jacksonville Fun, Justin Kemp, Summer Salads, Art, Poetry, Music
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JULY/AUGUST 2019
M A G A Z I N E
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V VAANN Z ANNDDT T Z A ARTS & CULTURAL DISTRICT ARTS & CULTURAL DISTRICT
Art Galleries. Live Music. Restaurants Lodging. Shopping. Theatre Wineries. Parks & Golf Museums. History. Nature Special Events
www.VanZandtACD.com Edom, Van, and Ben Wheeler, Texas JULY/AUGUST 2019 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 3
CONTENTS 30
DEPARTMENTS 5 Editor’s Note
32
THIS TIME OF YEAR
14 Celebrity birthdays, Neal McCoy, Davy Crockett, and Moon Day
CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT 16 Van Zandt Arts & Cultural District 17 Event Picks
THE ARTS 28 29 30 31 32
The Art of Judith Smothers Art Shows Art Classes With Maureen Killaby Erwin Smith Recorded Cowboy Era Captured Art: Photography by Ricky Niell, Curtis Miller, Ine Burke, Mel McCaul, and Michelle Cahal
STAGE 34 Summer Musicals
LITERARY
8
36 Children Read For Mothers in Prison 37 Poetry by Kathy Dodd, Bill Faulkner, Jill Cummings, Darrell Lindsey, and Shirley Lollar
MUSIC 38 Play It Forward 39 Music Picks 40 Kathy Mattea 41 Classical Series, Santana, Doobie Brothers 42 Justin Kemp
FOOD & DRINK 44 Hatch Green Chile Fest 46 Summer Salad Recipes
FEATURES
8 The Fredonia Hotel
This boutique hotel is a great inclusive getaway and just a block away from downtown Nacogdoches. By Judy Peacock & P.A. Geddie
22 Destination Jacksonville
With Love’s Lookout Park, downtown shopping and dining, interesting attractions, and a popular lake, Jacksonville is a good destination for summer fun. By Tracy Torma
18 Discover America in Texas
No need to leave Texas to visit New York. Atlanta, Pittsburg, or Detroit. Try these smalltown versions of America’s big cities By Tracy Torma
Cover: One of two pool areas at The Fredonia Hotel in Nacogdoches. Photo by Judy Peacock
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EDITOR’S NOTE
MAGAZINE
Dear Readers, Serving those living & playing in the Upper East Side of Texas
PUBLISHER & MANAGING EDITOR P.A. Geddie COPY EDITORS Tracy Torma Steve Freeman
CONTRIBUTORS Judy Peacock Krista Leard Tracy Torma Ricky Niell Curtis Miller Ine Burke Mel McCaul Michell Cahal Kathy Dodd Bill Faulkner Jill Cummings Darrell Lindsey Shelley Lollar Dave Hensley Tim Griffin Michael Barera Terry Mathews Libby Farro
You can count on hot, hot, hot this time of year in the Upper East Side of Texas so you may as well embrace it. A little sun is good for us. With sunscreen of course. And don’t forget the bug spray. Find lots of fun this season at our many lakes — there’s nothing like a cool dive off a pier or even a relaxing wade in shallow water. More inviting water is found at The Fredonia Hotel in Nacogdoches. Guests have their choice of two pools — one close to the Nine Flags Bar & Grill and the other is perfect for families and even pets. The Fredonia reopened two years ago after an $18 million renovation. It’s got two restaurants that keep the locals coming in and guests enjoy the whole package as well as walking over to downtown Nacogdoches for shopping and seeing the sites more.
There’s no shortage of fun getaways this summer. Tracy Torma takes us across the region to small towns with big American names. Read her recommendations on Detroit, New York, Atlanta, and Pittsburg, Texas. Jacksonville is also a big American city but here in the Upper East Side of Texas it’s a small town with fantastic views, good food, shopping, and a beautiful lake open to the public. The Van Zandt Arts & Cultural District is another good option and we have a four-day plan for you to come check it out. Read enlightening poetry, discover our artists and their beautiful creations, go to a summer musical, enjoy concerts and intimate live music venues, and enjoy the delicious foods found at our farmers markets and restaurants. Keep cool and enjoy!
P.A. Geddie
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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 2019 County Line all rights reserved. Material may not be reproduced without written permission. Opinions expressed in articles or advertising appearing in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Ben Wheeler, TX 75754 Phone: 903.963.1101. E-mail: info@countylinemagazine.com Website: www.countylinemagazine.com. Free listings are entered on a space available basis. Advertising space may be purchased by calling 903.963.1101.. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement we deem incompatible with our mission.
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Join us for exclusive, guided, educational tours of the Sanctuary
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Upcoming tours: July 13 & 27 10am Aug. 10 & 24 10am Sept. 7 & 21 10am
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EXPLORE WOOD MeetingCOUNTY the locals has never been so memorable
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Cabins & Retreats Corner of FM279 & FM314
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MARSHALL TEXAS shines year round • 2nd Saturday Car Show & Concert March through November • Market on the Square May through September; featuring growers, vendors, live music and children's crafts • Visit the Starr Family Home, Harrison County Historical Museum, T&P Railroad Depot, and Michelson Museum of Art @VisitMarshallTX @MarshallMainStreet @MarketOnTheSquare WWW.MARSHALLTEXAS.NET
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The Fredonia Hotel Downtown Nacogdoches Venue Features Timeless Luxury By Judy Peacock and P.A. Geddie When Richard and Barbara DeWitt spent $18 million renovating the old Fredonia Hotel in downtown Nacogdoches a couple of years ago they knew they were bringing it back more hip and haute than ever. Inside and out, the six-story midcentury modern building is a beacon for people from many generations who are drawn to its 1950s vibe with all the present day amenities. The Fredonia was originally built in 1955, a time when American style was all about embracing the future. It was an era of astronauts hurtling into space, and the Twilight Zone and The Jetsons. The building was financed then by the citizens of Nacogdoches. It was named for the Fredonia Rebellion of 1826, when citizens of that era decided the oldest town in Texas needed its independence from Mexico.
with a Latin ending. He proposed it as a replacement name for America. While that idea didn’t fly, the word stuck and became the name of many towns and cities, fictional movie countries, one rebellion, and one boutique hotel in Texas. In its first 60 years or so The Fredonia Hotel was a hot spot for locals and visitors from all over the world. Famous visitors included Farrah Fawcett, Amy Schumer, and Elvis Presley. After decades of structural changes and ownership transfers, it closed in 2013. It sat empty until the DeWitts purchased and reopened it in June 2017 better than ever. Today locals and visitors alike frequent The Fredonia Hotel with one bar, two restaurants, two pools, and a gift shop. There are 109 rooms in four different styles: cabana, tower, terrace, and suites.
Those Nacogdoches people are always stirring up something.
Fredonia’s Kat Thompson says while the locals enjoy the bar, restaurants, and live music, visitors from all over the world come to stay for a variety of reasons.
Fredonia is a word coined by early American politician Samuel Latham Mitchill, coupling the English word “freedom”
“We get families, girls getaways, history buffs, business travelers, and more,” Thompson says. “They come for the
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azaleas, fraternities rent out the whole hotel, for weddings, and more.” Thompson and her husband got married at the hotel after moving from Houston. “Everyone loves it,” she says. “You have the amenities of a big city but it’s a slower pace. It’s relaxing, a vacation, the ultimate getaway from the city.” Entering the front door of the hotel, guests are greeted by friendly, welcoming staff and surrounded by midcentury modern minimal clean-lined furniture and an iconic staircase that serves often as a backdrop for group photos. “Every single piece is curated and every piece has a purpose,” Thompson says. On one side of the lobby is the hotel’s gift shop and on the other is the Nine Flags Bar & Grill, which offers a unique setting for drinks and snacks. The tables in the bar are made by hotel employee Alan Sieja from a pecan tree that once stood on the property, and the décor has an industrial feel with copper-colored metal chairs, Edison
bulb light fixtures and wall décor. The bar has a view of the main pool, and for those that want to enjoy the outdoors, they can take their drinks and food by the water. “This is a beautiful bar,” Thomson says. “It feels like you have traveled to a big city and anything you want is possible there.” The main pool area has lots of places to visit with friends and family or to enjoy relaxing solitude underneath tall pecan trees. There are comfy lounge chairs surrounding the pool or seats around a unique gas-lit, metal fire pit. For comfortable cooling-off seating, guests can lounge in reclining chairs in a six-inch deep part of the pool. This pool area is bordered partially by the hotel lobby, bar, and restaurants, with the hotel’s semi-circle of one-story cabana rooms and their patios completing the encircled area. The Fredonia has two restaurants. 1st
City Café serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily and brunch on the weekends. The Republic Steakhouse — open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday by reservation and serves what Thompson says is the “best steak I’ve ever had.” “1st City Cafe is bright and airy and looks out over the cabana pool and suites. It’s got lots of natural light and a view of beautiful trees. The midcentury modern chairs make it feel like a chic modern diner without the cheesy diner feel. It’s just light and airy and fun and the best place to brunch.” The steakhouse promises an upscale dining experience and is available by reservation only. There is a dress code. “The Republic Steakhouse is the best steakhouse I’ve been to in a long time,” Thompson says. “It rivals Houston, Dallas, and Austin and so does the service. You’re truly getting a first class, incredible experience. It’s unmatched.”
OPPOSITE PAGE: The Fredonia Hotel has 109 rooms, two pools, two restaurants and a bar. Courtesy photo.
ABOVE TOP CLOCKWISE: The Terrace pool area has family games and a large TV screen for watching movies. Each room is furnished with midcentury furniture, a 50-inch TV, and mini refrigerator. Midcentury furniture is found throughout the hotel including near the atrium. Bowls were made from the wood of an old Catulpa tree that once stood in the atrium. Photos by Judy Peacock
The Fredonia has a convention center that welcomes up to 1,000 guests in 25,000 square feet of indoor meeting space. They have something scheduled almost every day from parties and reunions to business conferences and weddings. Just off the convention center is the Terrace which includes one-story and continued page 11
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FREDONIA continued from page 9 two-story guest rooms that open to a grassy area around a second swimming pool with flower gardens, corn hole set, and an outdoor big screen TV on the side of a building. Pets are allowed in this area. Games are often played here and the hotel presents weekly screenings of kids’ movies on the wall in the summer months. Many guests enjoy finding fun things to do in downtown Nacogdoches. “It’s very easy walking distance, just a block or two,” Thompson says. “It’s a block over to the Fredonia Brewery, a new hot spot. Another block over finds you smack dab in the middle of downtown with boutiques, different restaurants, and an art gallery. The visitor center is right in the middle of town where visitors learn about the oldest town in Texas and its history. There’s even a small museum in the visitor center.”
are many art galleries and studios for shopping, enjoying art exhibits, or even creating art. Performing arts are available, too — both from the Stephen F. Austin University’s great theater program and the Lamp-Lite Theatre, where quality community theater productions are presented. Nacogdoches has a farmers market, beautiful gardens to stroll through, and many hiking trails around the city. The city has festivals, tours, and events every month of the year. Other fun things to do here include a zip line adventure, an escape room experience, and a water park. There are also wine tastings, unique craft beer experiences, and a chance to sip locally distilled bourbon in different venues. One way to check these out is to go on the city’s structured Wine, Whiskey and Brew Tours. The city’s website lists upcoming tours and says they work to set up special tours for visiting groups.
“You have the amenities of a big city but it’s a slower pace. It’s relaxing, a vacation, the ultimate getaway from the city.”
The Nacogdoches Convention and Visitors Bureau’s Stephanie Fontenot says they get a lot of visitors at the center who are staying at The Fredonia. Visitors learn about an abundance of interesting historical sites and museums that show good representations of living back in the 1800s up through present day. But she also says there are a lot of new exciting things to do. Live music is found in various places in Nacogdoches, from small venues offering local talent to larger venues bringing in big name talent. Banita Creek Hall, County Line Magazine’s Best Live Music Venue in the Upper East Side of Texas for 2018, is located here. There OPPOSITE TOP: The Nine Flags Bar & Grill is a favorite hot spot for locals and hotel guests. MIDDLE: (l-r) The Republic Steakhouse is fine dining with reservations and a dress code required. 1st City Cafe offers light menu options as well as weekend brunch. Courtesy photos. BOTTOM: (l-r) 1st City Cafe has a light and airy ambience. The gift shop is a luxury boutique with locally made and other unique items . Photos by Judy Peacock
Fontenot says a favorite place for locals is the Nine Flags Bar and Grill. “They have a signature drink representing each of the nine flags that fly over Nacogdoches and it’s the place to go for an upscale happy hour.” Thompson agrees The Fredonia is a great place for locals and visitors alike. “A lot of the locals like that it is an update to what is familiar to them — the midcentury modern gem that has always been here. For the visitors, it is the experience of a four-star hotel with the charm of a small town. Everyone here cares about your experience, from the desk clerk, to the bartender, to the person serving your dinner. We want the experience to be remarkable.” For more information about The Fredonia Hotel call (936) 564-1234 or visit thefredonia.com. Start planning things to do in Nacogdoches on visitnacogdoches.org.
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WINNSBORO CULTURAL ARTS DISTRICT
ANNIE MAE’S COFFEE SHOP & CAFE 108 W. Elm St. - (903) 347-6510
LIEFIE LI VINE 302 N. Main St. - (903) 347-1111
Neptune’s Car COPPER LEAF DAY SPA 209 N. Main St. - (903) 342-7772
WINNSBOROCULTURALDISTRICT.COM Texas Certified Cultural Arts District
DIRECTIONAL WELLNESS 213 N. Main St. - (903) 342-7772
LA CONCHITA 205 N. Walnut St. - (903) 347-1213
Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Bluegrass Band July 27
Glover, Tinney, Crawford,Little Song Swap August 10
100 East Cedar Street 903-588-0465 CYPRESS CREEK SOUTHERN ALES 200 E. Carnegie St. - (208) 841-4159
THE BOWERY Dining, Music, Arts, & Entertainment
BARREL HOUSE BAR & GRILL
STAR DRAGONFLY HERBS 300 N. Main St., Suite C - (903) 588-4313
204 Market St. - (903) 347-1282
200 MARKET STREET • 903-342-0686
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903-342-3666
DINE. SHOP. STAY. ARTS. ENTERTAINMENT.
ORIGINAL WORKS BY LOCAL ARTISTS
ASHLEY’S FLOWERS & SODA SHOP 306 E. Coke Rd. - (903) 342-0607
CLARA IDA FRANCES 219 N. Main St. - (903) 342-6137
r June 25 Ellis Paul
Nobody’s Girl
August 24
October 5
Kidzz Student Art from Summer Camp
BEAUWEEVILS 205 N. Main - (903) 342-6800
HEROES COMICS AND GAMES 111 E. Elm St. - (903) 342-2055
BONNIE’S LUNCH BOX 210 N. Main St. - (903) 347-6075
THEE HUBBELL HOUSE 307 W. Elm St. - (800) 227-0639
Through July 23
8th Annual Women in the Arts Exhibition July 27 - September 7
(903) 440-5392 FARMERS MARKET APR-NOV winnsboro.locallygrown.net
Rich in history. Steeped in country. First in class. Logos represent donors or supporters and are utilized by permission only.
FINDERS KEEPERS ANTIQUES 304 N. Main St. - (903) 347-1271
COUNTRYBOYS BBQ & SWEETS 414 W. Broadway - (903) 347-6512
CULTURE CLUB, GALLERY OF ARTISTS 107 E. Elm St.
www.WINNSBOROCENTERFORTHE ARTS.COM JULY/AUGUST 2019 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 13
THIS TIME OF YEAR HAPPY BIRTHDAY Check out these celebrities from the Upper East Side of Texas with birthdays this summer. Read their stories in the County Line archives.
JULY 30, 1958
A Wink to Neal McCoy Margo Martindale
Selena Gomez
Jacksonville
Grand Prairie
July 18, 1951
July 22, 1992
Kacey Musgraves Lee Ann Womack Golden/Mineola
Jacksonville
August 21, 1988
August 19, 1966
Beckanne Sisk Longview
August 22, 1992
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Jacksonville native Neal McCoy was born July 30, 1958. Besides his success as a world-class country music singer, his charity, East Texas Angel Network (ETAN), is committed to the enhancement of the lives of children who are living with terminal or life-threatening diseases. For almost 25 years, ETAN has made funds available for hundreds of families to pay off their secondary expenses. The major fundraiser for ETAN is a benefit concert, golf tournament, and sponsor’s dinner held in the fall of each year. McCoy is the featured artist for the concert along with many friends from the entertainment industry who donate their time to the cause. This year’s event is September 27-28 in Longview. For more information visit easttexasangelnetwork.com or call (903) 297-9000.
JULY 20
Moon Day
In celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing, the Center for Earth & Space Science Education at Tyler Junior College is hosting Moon Day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 20. On July 20, 1969, America’s Apollo 11 landed on the moon, making history as the first humans set foot on another world. This family-friendly event includes exhibitors, planetarium shows, model rocket building class, children’s book reading with autographs from the author, space science and engineering lectures for adults, and more. All day tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children and seniors. The center is located at 1411 E. Lake Street. Call (903) 510-2312 and visit sciencecenter.tjc.edu for more information.
The photo on the left is a view from the Apollo 11 spacecraft showing the Earth rising above the moon’s horizon. The lunar terrain pictured is in the area of Smyth’s Sea on the nearside. While astronauts Neil A. Armstrong, commander, and Edwin E. Aldrin Jr., lunar module pilot, descended in the Lunar Module (LM) “Eagle” to explore the Sea of Tranquility region of the moon, astronaut Michael Collins, command module pilot, remained with the Command and Service Modules (CSM) “Columbia” in lunar orbit. Photo on the right shows Astronaut Edwin E. Aldrin Jr., lunar module pilot, during the Apollo 11 extravehicular activity (EVA) on the moon. He is driving one of two core tubes into the lunar soil. Astronaut Neil A. Armstrong, commander, took this picture with a 70mm lunar surface camera. Photos courtesy NASA
JULY 11, 1835
Davy, Davy Crockett — King of the Wild Frontier On July 11, 1835, a Texas saying was born: "They might go to hell, and I would go to Texas." The Upper East Side of Texas played a part in the humorous quote from legendary frontiersman Davy Crockett, Tennessean by birth, but Texan by virtue of his fateful journey to the Republic of Texas and his death at the Alamo. Crockett was up for re-election to Congress representing Tennessee, but was also interested in going to Texas, the newest frontier of the nation. After he lost the election, he told a crowd in a speech made in Nacogdoches that he told his constituents, "If they saw fit to re-elect me, I would serve them as faithfully as I had done; but if not, they might go to hell, and I would go to Texas." A newspaper at the time reported that the crowd went wild with applause at Crockett's dry humor. Crockett is the namesake for the town of Crockett, Texas. A plaque and this painting marks the area where he once camped alongside a stream in what is now Brewer Park, not far from the Old San Antonio Road. The Davy Crockett National Forest west of Lufkin also commemorates this famous "adopted" Texan. JULY/AUGUST 2019 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 15
CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT
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Plan a Stay in the Van Zandt Arts & Cultural District Photo by Dave Hensley
By P.A. Geddie For those looking for a four-day getaway in the Upper East Side of Texas, try the Van Zandt Arts & Cultural District. Located in the southeast corner of Van Zandt County, Texas, (between Dallas and Shreveport) visitors find a unique district with three culturally active small towns — Edom, Van, and Ben Wheeler — and beautiful surrounding countryside. There’s plenty to experience in a four-day weekend. First, make reservations at the lovely Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott on Interstate 20 or try one of the bed and breakfasts, Airbnbs, or cabin retreats in the district. There’s a complete list of lodging choices as well as places to wine, dine, shop, and play on the Van Zandt Arts & Cultural District Explore Guide. Here are some suggestions for planning a stay.
Thursday
Start the adventure in Edom, home to a row of local artists where the anchors — Potters Brown and Zeke & Marty Jewelry — have created art for more than four decades. Pottery and jewelry from their studios make lovely one-of-a-kind gifts. Edom has two home-style restaurants for lunch, The Shed and Edom Café.
Then a walk touring the shops in Edom is in order before heading just eight miles down the road to Ben Wheeler for drinks and dinner. The Forge Bar & Grill has a full bar and offers a diverse menu with daily gourmet specials as well as burgers, sandwiches, salads, pizzas, and vegetarian options including veggie tacos. Try the bacon-wrapped jalapeños stuffed with cream cheese. Across the street is Moore’s Store offering specialty sandwiches like The Dancing Pig, fresh hamburgers, onion rings, cobbler and happy hour from 3-7 p.m. Driving between the towns in the district, take some time to look at the scenery with beautiful sunsets, nature, longhorn cattle, and bright starry skies. This time of year the sunsets tend to be a mix of dusty purples, pinks, and orangey gold.
Friday
Depending on a variety of starting point options, have a classic Southern breakfast in Van at The Farmhouse near Interstate 20 or the long-time downtown located Dinner Bell; in Ben Wheeler at The Forge; or Edom at The Shed or Edom Cafe. Spend the day with a good round of golf (Garden Valley Golf Resort), mu-
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seums (try Roseland Plantation tours by appointment), historical sites (see Battle of the Neches site), shopping (Van: Bouquets & Bows; Ben Wheeler: numerous retail shops; Edom: several art and retail shops), wineries (Van: Valle Della Pace or Edom: Green Goat) or just getting to know the local characters. Van also has Homegrown Farm and Garden for those looking for fresh farm produce. Friday’s a good day to meander about the district. If in Van during the day, try Su Casa Cantina & Grill with fresh guacamole, brisket tacos, and margaritas. They are also open nightly with a full bar and often have live music. Another dinner option is Edom Café with their Friday Steak Night special from 4-8 p.m. For $16.99 diners get an Angus Ribeye steak and sides plus a non-alcoholic drink. Guests are welcome to BYOB. Friday evenings in the Van Zandt Arts & Cultural District offer numerous opportunities for dining and live music. In Ben Wheeler there’s live music at The Forge as well as Moore’s Store. Moore’s often has dance bands so if boot scootin’ is on the agenda, this is the place to be. Green Goat Winery offers delicious meat and cheese trays to go with their tasty wines and a party is often going on at the Edom Art Emporium.
EVENTS
Saturday
History buffs will want to check out the Van Oil Museum, open only on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon. While in Van, coffee drinkers can swing by a local favorite, Clean Brew. It’s a gourmet coffee shop in a laundry mat in a residential area off downtown Main Street. They have a drive-thru window. For the rest of the day, plan to do some of the things missed on Friday.
July 20
Dates and times are subject to change. Always call ahead before planning a visit.
Every Saturday
Celebration Market, Celebration Live! Downtown Sulphur Springs. (903) 885-7541, www.sulphurspringstx.org
Second Saturdays
Mimosas at the Market. Downtown Corsicana. (903) 654-4851, www.corsicanamainstreet.org
White Fox Vineyards is only open on Saturdays and it’s worth the trip south of Ben Wheeler for wine and live music. Bring a picnic to go with the wine.
Through July 31
Blue Moon Gardens east of Edom is a must see just to hang out in the garden areas to take some plants home. It also has a fiber arts studio and an intriguing gift shop located in on old farmhouse.
Crepe Myrtle Festival. Waxahachie Sports Complex. (469) 309-4040, www.waxahachiecvb. com
Other than the anchor stores of Potters Brown and Zeke and Marty, shopping in Edom includes Arborcastle Birdhouses, The Experience, Cade Republic, Old Firehouse Gallery, Directions Antiques, Whimsical Woods, and the aforementioned Edom Art Emporium — all open Saturday and several worth the trip are open on Sunday.
Sunday
Sunday Brunch at The Forge is delicious with choices like Eggs Florentine, Migas, Breakfast Pizza, or The Hippy, a three-egg omelet with several cheeses and veggies. Pair up food choices with a good cup of coffee or one of their delicious Bloody Mary or Mimosa drinks. This is a good time to check out any of the Ben Wheeler shops not seen previously as most of them are open Sunday. Don’t miss Mr. B’s Antiques, BE’s Records, Rusted Oak Woodworks, The Blade Bar, and Glitz and Spurs Boutique. Pop into Vintage Cork 917 after cruising historic downtown Ben Wheeler for a glass of wine. Wine and shopping go hand in hand in this friendly store — open Saturday and Sunday only. For those wanting a bit more nature relaxation in their getaway, check out campfires, hot tubs, quiet retreats, wooded grounds, fishing, nature trails, and other amenities in the list of lodging choices to find just the right fit. Learn more about the district on www. VanZandtACD.com.
Blueberry Picking. Edom. Blueberry Hill Farms. (903) 852-6175, blueberryhillfarms.com
July 3
July 4
Red, White and BOOM! McKinney. (972) 547-7480, www.mckinneytexas.org
Moon Day 2019. Tyler. Center for Earth & Space Science Education, TJC, (903) 510-2312, sciencecenter.tjc.edu Mimosas at the Market. Downtown Corsicana, (903) 654-4851, corsicanamainstreet.org Paris Balloon & Music Festival. Paris. Lamar County Fair Grounds, (903) 785-7971, parisballoonandmusicfestival.com Tour de Paris Bicycle Rally. Paris. Love Civic Center, (903) 784-2501, tourdeparis.com
July 26-28
Great Texas Balloon Race. Longview. College of Aviation & Aeronautical Science at LeTourneau University, (903) 753-3281, greattexasballoonrace.com
July 26-29
Shadow Renaissance Festival. Sulphur Springs. Shadow Ranch Therapeutic Riding Center, shadowrenfest.com
August 1-4
4th of July Celebration & Fireworks. Mineola Civic Center, (903) 569-6115, mineolachamber.org
First Monday Trade Days. Canton. First Monday Trade Days, (903) 567-6556, firstmondaycanton.com
Fourth of July Extravaganza. Kilgore City Park, (903) 988-4117, kilgoremainstreet.com
August 3
Firecracker 5K, Independence Day Parade. Downtown Greenville, (903) 457-3126, greenvilleTX.fun Bottle Rocket Bash. Greenville Sports Park, (903) 457-2994, greenvilleTX.fun Fireworks & Freedom Celebration. Longview. Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Complex, (903) 753-3281, visitlongviewtexas.com
July 5-6
Gun Barrel City July Fest. Gun Barrel City Park Amphitheater, (903) 887-1087, gunbarrelcity.net
July 11-13
57th Annual Fireman’s Rodeo. Mineola Rodeo Grounds, (903) 569-6183, mineolachamber.org
July 13
Marshall’s Second Saturday. Downtown Marshall, (903) 702-7777, marshalltexas.net/ Saturday Second Saturdays in Downtown. Historic Downtown McKinney, (972) 547-2660, secondsaturdaymckinney.com Battle of the Neches Pow Wow-180th Anniversary. Ben Wheeler. Battle of the Neches Historical Site, aics1839.com
July 19
Pints in the Pines. Palestine. Texas State Railroad Palestine Depot, (855) 632-7729, TexasStateRailroad.net
Cedar Creek Brewery-7 Year Anniversary. Seven Points. Cedar Creek Brewery, (903) 4322337, cedarcreekbrewery.com/events East Texas Book Bash. Tyler. Harvey Hall, (903) 795-3640
August 9
Wines in the Pines. Palestine. Texas State Railroad Palestine Depot, (855) 632-7729, TexasStateRailroad.net
August 10
Marshall’s Second Saturday. Downtown Marshall, (903) 702-7777, marshalltexas.net/ Saturday Second Saturdays in McKinney. Historic Downtown McKinney, (972) 547-2660, secondsaturdaymckinney.com
August 13
Mimosas at the Market. Downtown Corsicana, (903) 654-4851, corsicanamainstreet.org
August 29-September 1
First Monday Trade Days. Canton. First Monday Trade Days, (903) 567-6556, firstmondaycanton.com
September 14
Classics Round the Square. Emory. Downtown Square, (903) 473-2465, emorytx. com
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JULY/AUGUST 2019 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 17
Discover America IN THE UPPER EAST SIDE OF TEXAS
Enjoy soaring views of the beautiful East Texas countryside at New York Zipline Adventures in Henderson County. Tours are available for ages five and up with visitors choosing between several challenges. Courtesy photo
By Tracy Torma Summertime means family and group vacations — time to pack up the car or board flights to travel to destinations across America. Save time and money by visiting some of America’s bestknown cities — all while staying in the Lone Star State. The Upper East Side of Texas boasts four local towns with the names of more famous big-city counterparts (plus see article on Jacksonville). What they might lack in size, they make up for in beautiful scenery, quiet country back roads with rolling hills and treelined highways, and great local shopping, food, and history.
New York
Visitors love New York. Texas, that is. New York is an unincorporated community in Henderson County about 16 miles east of Athens and 30 miles southwest of Tyler. New York was first settled around 1856, and the present site was settled in 1873. The community was reportedly named either by T.B Herndon as a joke or by Davis Reynolds because of his hopes for the town’s future. By 1884, New York had two steam gristmills and cotton gins, two churches, a district school, and a population of 60, which rose to 100 by 1892. The town declined after it was bypassed by the railroad in 1901.
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Today, New York is best known for the New York Zipline Adventures (www. goziptexas.com), which showcase gorgeous 30-mile views high above the rocky hillside of one of the highest elevations in East Texas. The Shultz family opened the zip line tours on their family ranch 11 years ago. Shultz Mountain Ranch features a 1910 historical home relocated from nearby Jacksonville in 2001 by Charles and Connie Shultz. The home site sits atop the highest elevation in East Texas, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views and abundant wildlife. Charles Shultz was in the structural moving business before designing and building the zipline course.
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MAGAZINE
Reach those who Live & Play in the Upper East Side of Texas The restored Texas and Pacific Railway depot in Atlanta features a historical museum designed with children’s education in mind.. Photo by Tracy Torma
Tours are available for ages five and up, with visitors choosing between a six zipline tour or the nine zipline challenge, featuring the longest 1,500 foot line, with two cable sky bridges that lead to a 40-foot zip tower. Each guest is fitted with a harness, helmet, and appropriate gear. The tour begins with a “ground school,” where a guide demonstrates and teaches the proper procedures and stays with groups at all times. New York, Texas Zipline Adventures is open Thursday through Sunday and on some holidays. Tours are by appointment only and group rates and daily specials are offered throughout the summer. Call (903) 681-3791 to book an adventure.
cookware, kitchen accessories, gourmet mixes and salsas.
Atlanta
There are plenty of downtown restaurants from Luigi’s Italian Restaurant (210 N East St.) to Roux-Ga-Roux Seafood (301 N. East St.) to Uncle Juan’s Mexican Restaurant (117 E. Main St.). The Rabbit Patch (122 East Hiram St.) features hamburgers, sandwiches, wraps, and salads, and has an old-fashioned ice cream counter, with homespun milkshakes and malts, ice cream sundaes, cones, and floats. All are open for lunch and dinner. A food truck and walking café called the Come and Take it Café (110 E. Main St.) is open for breakfast and lunch, featuring street tacos, burgers, and salads.
No need to travel to Georgia to experience Southern charm. One is immediately drawn to the Mayberry-esque appearance of Atlanta, Texas, the largest city in Cass County, population 5,675. The city’s downtown is lined with American flags, which are taken down only during the holidays for Christmas decorations. Downtown Atlanta features a variety of antique stores and boutiques. Be sure to visit Price Hardware (302 N. William St.). Family-owned-and-operated since 1946, it has a specialty kitchen boutique called Kitchenette, featuring high-end
The Atlanta Historical Museum, located in the restored Texas and Pacific Railway depot at 101 North East Street, is designed with children’s education in mind. Exhibits weave a young person’s perspective into the stories of railroads, farming, military history, and aviation. The museum includes a diorama depicting the T&P Railway as it appeared between 1890 and 1910, railroad and depot equipment, cotton processing equipment, military artifacts, and a scale-model of the airplane flown by the first African American female aviator Bessie Coleman.
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continued page 20 JULY/AUGUST 2019 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 19
The First Christian Church of Detroit, built in 1902, is a Texas Historic Landmark. Other noteworthy stops in Detroit include the house where Vice President John Nance Garner was born. Photo by Michael Barera
AMERICA continued from page 19 Located on the shores of Wright Patman Lake, Atlanta State Park offers fishing, boating, and water skiing, as well as swimming in designated areas. Fishermen enjoy the 33,750-surface-acre reservoir and its 75-pound catfish. Other activities include birding, nature study, picnicking, geocaching, jogging, and hiking along the roads, trails and shorelines, as well as bicycling on hilly park roads. On Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 7 p.m., visitors can experience wine tasting at O’Farrell Country Vineyards (ofarrellvineyard.com). The winery grows 14 varieties of muscadine cultivars. Three generations of the family are involved in making the seven muscadine and four fruit wines available at the winery.
Detroit Move over Motor City. Detroit, Texas, is a quintessential small town in Red River County, population 732. Detroit developed around the proposed route of the Texas and Pacific Railway in the early 1870s. When the railroad was completed in 1876, the post office at nearby Starkesville was moved to the new town, which was named Bennett. It seems the name was too close to that of the city of Burnett, so in 1887, J.M. Stephens, the local
railway agent, renamed the town Detroit for his former home in Michigan. Because of its location on the railroad, the town became an important trading center and shipping point for area farmers, and by 1884, the population reached 200 and by 1910, the city had grown to 1,500. Today, Detroit is a classic small East Texas town, where visitors can catch a local sports game no matter what season they visit. With one bank and one gas station, a new barbecue restaurant —the Smokeshack BBQ — recently opened for lunch Tuesday through Friday, featuring signature prime brisket and house-made sausages from the local Holdeman Sausage Co. The town is anticipating the opening of a new café located next to the Whistle Stop Inn Bed and Breakfast (whistlestopinnbandb.com), the only lodging available in town. While in Detroit, visitors can see the childhood home of Vice President John Nance Garner, the 32nd vice president of the U.S, serving from 1933 to 1941 under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Garner attended Detroit schools. It is located at 206 S. Main St. The First Christian Church in town, built in 1902 at 155 1st St. NW, is a Texas Historic Landmark.
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Pittsburg Ask anyone in Northeast Texas to spell the city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and they will more than likely leave the “h” off the end. That’s because residents here relate to only one Pittsburg, home of the renowned Pittsburg Hotlinks. In 1897, Charlie Hasselback brought his recipe to Camp County, selling the unique hot links over the counter for preparation at home. He built an addition to his downtown building in 1918 and began serving cooked links over the counter, and their popularity took off. At one point, three businesses in town served hot links. Today, Pittsburg Hot Link Restaurant (136 W. Marshall Street.) packs people in for hot links served on butcher paper with saltine crackers. They also serve burgers, sandwiches, salads, plate lunches, and catfish plates. But be sure to add a side of what has been described as East Texas Caviar. It’s an experience guests don’t forget. For other unique dining experiences, try Bistro Neuf 9, located in a historic building at 123 Quitman Street. Open Thursday through Saturday, the restaurant serves homemade country comfort food from locally sourced ingredients with a unique French twist. Anvil Brew-
ing (115 South Compress Street) features craft beers and a killer Reuben sandwich, burgers, and other pub fare. Located in the original Pilgrim’s Feed and Seed building (the original start of Bo Pilgrim’s chicken business, Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation), Anvil Brewing is open Wednesday through Saturday and features a dance hall with live music.
telephone switchboard and antique telephones, a printing press, Model T Ford, and a 1909 surrey.
Pilgrim and his wife built another favorite local attraction, the Witness Park and Prayer Tower. Located on Main Street, the beautifully landscaped park features a tower with four Paccard bells from France and a chapel that never closes with beautiful stained glass windows on four sides.
Pittsburg hosts its annual Pioneer Days in September, with the third Saturday of the month featuring a parade, local food and craft vendors, and a street dance that evening. The last Saturday in April is the Hot Link Festival. The town was recently declared the Hot Link Capital of Texas by the Texas Legislature. The city also hosts an Art and Wine Festival in April and Home for the Holidays event in December, with food, drink, crafts and music downtown.
Also downtown, the Northeast Texas Rural Heritage Center has a replica of the Ezekiel Airship, a flying machine flown in a nearby pasture in 1902, predating the Wright Brothers’ first airplane. The center also features the Farmstead Museum, with a Caddo Indian archeology exhibit and other antiques and artifacts, including an 1894
Shop the antique stores and boutiques downtown, including a handmade soap shop, Rustville Essentials’ Soap Shop (120 Quitman Street) and Rick’s Antique Safari (next door), with the state’s oldest hand-operated elevator still in operation.
For those looking to beat the summer heat head to Splash Pittsburg, a splash park located at Fair Park, the location of the second largest state fair in the early 1900s.
Four miles south of Pittsburg is the Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards (658 County Road 1334). Open Fridays through Sunday, Los Pinos features a tasting room, outdoor tasting deck, and dining room, where live music is featured on stage every Friday and Saturday starting at 6 p.m. Lake Bob Sandlin State Park (https:// tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lake-bobsandlin) is another beautiful East Texas lake with great fishing, swimming, and hiking opportunities. The park has 75 campsites with water and electricity, as well as cabins and screened shelters. While Camp County is the fourth smallest county in Texas, it is the second largest peach producer. And no visit to Pittsburg is complete without a visit to Efurd Orchards (4004 US-217), where visitors find a wide selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, including Pittsburg peaches, homemade ice cream, and a variety of homemade products in this giant and eclectic fruit stand.
No visit to Pittsburg is complete without experiencing an order of hot links at Pittsburg Hot Links Restaurant or visiting the Northeast Texas Rural Heritage Museum and the Witness Park and Prayer Tower, all located downtown. Photos by Tracy Torma
JULY/AUGUST 2019 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 21
DESTINATION JACKSONVILLE
With Love’s Lookout Park, downtown shopping and dining, interesting attractions, and a popular lake, Jacksonville is a good place to visit for summer fun.
ABOVE: Enjoy a panoramic view of the Eastern horizon at Love’s Lookout State Park just four miles from downtown Jacksonville. Visitors can see as far as 30 miles away on a clear day. RIGHT: The 100-year old Texas Basket Factory is the largest producer of baskets in the world. Photos by Tracy Torma
By Tracy Torma With great views, a popular lake, downtown shops, attractions, and tasty restaurants, Jacksonville is a good travel destination. Visitors can start out just four miles from downtown at Love’s Lookout State Park. At an elevation of 720 feet above sea level and rising 240 feet above the surrounding terrain, visitors get a panoramic view of the Eastern horizon, reaching as far as 30 miles on a clear day. The park features a visitors’ center and outside tables and benches for picnicking with a view. There’s a stone wall built as a WPA project of the 1930s made from locally harvested iron ore, which can also be found in Jacksonville’s renowned downtown Tomato Bowl football stadium. The park also has a 125-foot city fire tower, one of the last of the original 100 fire towers built by the Texas Forest Service in the 1930s.
Each summer, Jacksonville hosts the Tomato Fest, celebrating the crop that farmers of Cherokee County have grown since the turn of the 20th century. In 1917, Cherokee County produced 90 percent of the tomatoes shipped from Texas. The annual festival transforms downtown into an outdoor market of foods, crafts, and music. Downtown Jacksonville features a variety of shops and boutiques, including the Treasure Cove Antique Mall located inside a former two-story department store. Across the street, purchase handmade soaps at Tigerlillies Florist & Soap Emporium or find unique clothing and gift items at Country Charm Boutique and Raven Jute Boutique & Salon. Chantilly’s is a home décor store and women’s
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clothing boutique where guests are offered a cup of coffee served in a teacup and can purchase farm-fresh eggs from the owner — small touches that make shopping in East Texas so unique and charming. Not far from downtown is the Texas Basket Factory Store, featuring a variety of gift items — from kitchenware to children’s gifts — as well as baskets in all shapes and sizes. The Texas Basket Factory celebrates its 100th year in business this year as the largest producer of baskets in the world, shipping 10,000 baskets each day. While in Jacksonville, be sure to visit the Vanishing Texana Museum (302 South Bolton). Open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and free to the public, the continued page 25
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museum includes an impressive collection of antiquities, curiosities, and items of a bygone era. Among the exhibits donated by local residents is an antique coin collection with currency dating back to the Roman Empire as early as 238 A.D. and a rare Noel Madstone, which was applied to a bite to treat rabies before a vaccine became available. Displays include Native American relics, farm equipment, photographs, guns, dolls, and typewriters. Museum curator Larry Lydick is happy to point out some of the more curious items, including a 1922 Victrola handcranked record player that still works. Jacksonville has many great places to eat, but topping the list on Yelp is Sylvia Mae’s Soul Food (564 N. Main St.). Don’t let the size or modest appearance of the place fool you. Inside, Sylvia serves up some of the best home cooking around. Specialties include chicken fried steak, smothered pork chops, and fried ribs, with sides of greens, purple hull peas, and mashed potatoes. Other downtown eateries include Commerce Street Draft House (401 E. Commerce St.), featuring craft brews and good pub food, and Sadler’s Kitchen (101 S. Bonner St.), where farm to table food is served in a fun, funky atmosphere in what was once the city jail. Ritual Luncheonette (214 S. Main St.) is the newest restaurant downtown for lunch, featuring salads, quiche, sandwiches, and desserts. Those hungry for a burger can go to Legends Old Time Burger Café (1630 S. Jackson St.), where they can dress their burger their own way from a well-stocked condiment bar. Nearby Jacksonville, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the River Run ATV park, where one can go off-roading along the banks of the Neches River; the Adrenaline Rush Zip Line, one of the longest zip lines in Texas; and Cherokee Trace Safari, home to a plethora of exotic animal species. Visit explorejacksonville.org for more. TOP LEFT CLOCKWISE: Jacksonville features fun shopping at downtown boutiques; historic memorabilia at the Vanishing Texana Museum; delightful home cooking at Sylvia Mae’s Soul Food; home decor, women’s clothing and farm fresh eggs at Chantilly’s; and juicy hamburgers at Legends Old Time Burger Cafe. Photos by Tracy Torma
Lake Jacksonville Open to Visitors for July 4 and Throughout the Year
Photo by Tim Griffin
JACKSONVILLE continued from page 22
For people with homes on Lake Jacksonville, every day offers scenic views and a fisherman’s paradise. The City of Jacksonville makes this 1,325 acres of water available to visitors with a recreational area that allows for day and overnight amenities. There’s a public beach area, three boat launch ramps, and swimming piers. Two public swimming spots boast crystalclear water with a foundation of clean sandy loam underfoot (with a minimal amount of stumps and debris). One swim area is conveniently situated adjacent to campsites and offers picnic tables, pier and a sand beach. An additional public swimming area (known locally as Kiwanis Park) is located just past the dam and also features a pier and picnic areas. The recreational areas are open seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Lake Jacksonville has 27 camping facilities including 10 enclosed shelters and 10 RV pads available by reservation. Each have water and electricity and the majority have barbecue pits, and all facilities have access to restroom facilities and showers.
Texas Parks and Wildlife has maintained a customized stocking program for Lake Jacksonville for 30 years, and it shows in the number of trophy fish recorded into the TP&W books. Lake Jacksonville has a long history as a favored go-to among area anglers with it’s offerings of largemouth bass (one record bass weighing in at 15-poundsplus), spotted bass, “slab” crappie, sun perch, and catfish. Wildlife around the lake is abundant with deer and red fox, and bald eagles visit seasonally in the winter. Birdwatching is a favorite activity for many visitors. There are numerous special events going on during the year including the annual 4th of July Fireworks at the Lake. This year’s takes place at 9 p.m. Thursday, July 4. There are a number of places to view the show from the public campground and swimming areas and hundreds of boaters line up each year to get their front-row seat on the water. For more information and to reserve lodging accomodations, visit www.explorejacksonvilletx.org.
JULY/AUGUST 2019 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 25
Enjoy Shopping, Dining & Entertainment in Historic Mineola, Texas
Sidetrack in Mineola!
IRON HORSE SQUARE MINI TRAIN 2nd/3rd Saturdays March-October 11 a.m.-4 p.m. MAIN STREET FARMERS’ MARKET Every Saturday May-October 8 a.m.-Noon. SPLASH PARK Mineola Civic Center. 903-569-6115
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MAGAZINE
Reach those who Live & Play in the Upper East Side of Texas
CELEBRATE FREEDOM FUN & FIREWORKS July 4. Mineola Civic Center 57TH ANNUAL MINEOLA VOLUNTEER FIREMAN’S RODEO July 13. Fire Dept. Rodeo Arena
MINEOLA NATURE PRESERVE 7:30 a.m. until sunset
MINEOLA HISTORICAL MUSEUM
GIRLS NIGHT OUT Second Saturdays Through August. Downtown.
RAILROAD MUSEUM
SUMMER KIDS CAMP July 8-12. Mineola League of the Arts. 903-569-8877
114 Pacific St (Hwy. 69) Open Thur, Fri, Sat 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Restored 1906 Mineola Depot 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. 7 days a week. FREE
AMTRAK TEXAS EAGLE
Designated Daily Stop 1-800-669-8509
1.800.MINEOLA • www.mineola.com LOOKING TO SELL OR BUY HUNTING LAND? LAND
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Carroll Bobo 903.530.2475 Ben Jackson 903.941.3390
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(903) 963-1101
HENDERSON HAPPENINGS Henderson Civic Theatre 122 E. Main St. 903-657-2968 www.hendersoncivictheatre.org
Disney’s Frozen JR July 10-12, & 17-19
JULY 4th
10:00 a.m. Parade Downtown
City of Henderson Department of Tourism
5:00 p.m. Fun in the Park
866-650-5529 tourism@hendersontx.us
www.visithendersontx.com
Lake Forest Park, 1500 Lake Forest Pkwy
Free giant water slide and inflatables
164th Annual Sacred Harp Singing National Convention August 10-11, 2019 Henderson Civic Center A historic form of Folk Christian Music, acappella and four-part harmony
Fun food for purchase 6:00 p.m. Lee Mathis & Brutally Handsome Band 9:15 p.m. Fireworks over the lake
Emory, TX Let us lure you
“The Land Between the Lakes”
September 17-21st, 2019
Rains County Fair
nd
Se
l
22nua An
pt
14
th
381 W. Lennon Dr. 903-473-0061
www.emorytx.com
1026 E. Lennon Dr. 903-473-2022
JULY/AUGUST 2019 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 27
THE ARTS Artist Creates Mother and Child and Other Art Series
Judith A. Smothers has pursued her love of drawing and painting since she was a young girl. She earned a bachelor’s degree in art and education from Eastern New Mexico University. Later, while teaching art to middle school kids, she began freelance illustration for local businesses. This led her to a position as director of the art department for an etching company. They created wildlife art etchings for gun and knife manufacturers such as Remington, Colt and Winchester. These etchings resembled fine engraving yet offered the client limited edition options and opened up a new avenue for artistic exploration. Concurrently, she created pen-and-ink limited edition wildlife prints and dabbled in watercolor. Then for the next 20 years or so she set aside her art to raise children. After they were off to college, she said it was time to pick up a paintbrush again. Inspiration came from instructing adult art classes in Terrell and the birth of her first grandchild. While teaching a watercolor technique that employs a watercolor wash and plastic wrap, she began conjuring up images of moms and kids in the dried washes. “What a joy to allow one’s imagination to run wild,” she says. A series of 12 paintings were developed depicting the love between a mother and her child. One is “The Gift” pictured here that she did in 2007. These abstract paintings are a mix of realism and flat pattern designs that, some say, resemble stained glass windows. The excitement of painting from the unknown and using her imagination opened up a new way of exploring pigment on paper. Once the “Mother and Child Series” was complete, Smothers expanded into other media. See more of her amazing work on fineartamerica.com
SAVE THE DATE!
November 8-9, 2019 f@WinnsboroArtandWineFestival 28 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • JULY/AUGUST 2019
Attention Artists Send high resolution photos of your art and your bio to editor@countylinemagazine.com for possible inclusion in a future County Line Magazine.
ARTS EVENTS
STAGE EVENTS
Dates and times are subject to change. Always call ahead before planning a visit.
Through August 4
Texas Birds: Works by Frank X. Tolbert 2. Tyler Museum of Art, (903) 595-1001, tylermuseum.org/texasbirds
Through August 25 Floating Life: Mississippi River Drawings by Liz Ward. Tyler Museum of Art, (903) 5951001, tylermuseum.org/floating-life
Through August 31
People Power. Athens. Gallery 211, (903) 292-1746, artgallery211.net
July 6-September 21
Simon Waranch-- Young Maestro. Longview Museum of Fine Arts, (903) 753-8103, lmfa.org
July 6-September 21
Intimate Immensity with Liz Hickok. Longview Museum of Fine Arts, (903) 7538103, lmfa.org
July 11
ArtWalk Downtown. Downtown Longview, (903) 753-2098, artwalklongview.com
July 25
Regional Arts Council Annual Judged Art Show. Marshall Visual Arts Center, (903) 9354484, marshallartscouncil.org
July 27 – September 7
8th Annual Women in the Arts Exhibit. Winnsboro Center for the Arts, (903) 342-0686, winnsborocenterforthearts.com
September 7 – November 9
Wild Things. Athens. Gallery 211, (903) 2921746, artgallery211.net
June 27-July 28
Texas Shakespeare Festival. Kilgore. Texas Shakespeare Festival, (903) 983-8119, texasshakespeare.com
July 6
Ron White. Bossier City. Horseshoe Bossier City, (800) 895-0711, caesars.com/horseshoebossier-city
July 12-13 & 19-20
Disney’s Beauty & the Beast. Greenville Municipal Auditorium, (903) 457-3126, ShowtimeAtTheGMA.com
July 12-14
Matilda. Nacogdoches. Lamp Lite Theater, (936) 564-8300, lamplitetheatre.com
July 18-27
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. Athens. Henderson County Performing Arts Center, (903) 675-3908, hcpac.org
July 25-28
Ella Enchanted. Longview. ArtsView Children’s Theatre, (903) 236-7535, artsviewchildrenstheatre.com
July 26-27
Summer Showcase. Waxahachie. University Assembly of God, (972) 646-1050, waxahachiecommunitytheatre.com
July 26-28 & August 2-4
My Son Pinocchio. Palestine. Texas Theater, (903) 922-1126, thetexastheater.com
August 2-4 & 9-11
Shrek the Musical. Mineola. Select Theater, (903) 569-2300, lakecountryplayhouse.com
August 16-17
Faith County. Edom Community Center, (903) 352-3158
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INTIMATE IMMENSITY
LIZ HICKOK
RECEPTION FOR MEMBERS & GUESTS
SATURDAY • JULY 13 • 7PM
O N D I S P L AY J U LY 6 T O S E P T 2 1
Floating Life Mississippi River Drawings by Liz Ward
SIMON WARANCH YOUNG MAESTRO!
Sponsored by Ralph Curton, Jr.
903.753.8103 LMFA.org
215 E. Tyler St. Longview, TX 75601
through August 25, 2019 Tyler Museum of Art 1300 South Mahon Avenue • Tyler, TX www.tylermuseum.org
JULY/AUGUST 2019 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 29
PAPER
Indulge
Take a Summer Art Class From Best of 2018 Artist
YOU DESERVE IT
SUBSCRIBE!
Still just $15 per year! SUBMIT ORDER ON WEBSITE OR MAIL TO P.O. BOX 608 BEN WHEELER, TX 75754
county line Upper East Side of Texas Regional Magazine
County Line Magazine’s 2018 Best Artist winner Maureen Killaby teaches a variety of art classes from her Lindale studio.
mentals, oil painting, pastels, and colored pencil. For adults, she teaches classical methods of drawing and painting including Bargue drawings, old master copies, cast and figure drawing, still life painting, portraiture, and figurative composition.
fl&g
Killaby makes art very accessible for everyone. Her compelling creations like “Sophia” above do that one way and her love of teaching art does it another.
903.963.1101 countylinemagazine.com
Killaby’s own work ranges from drawing birds to figurative work to landscapes to impressionist to studying the classic Russian and Spanish artists.
She also has a beginners oil painting class where she teaches the basics and shows how to develop skills in color, composition, paint application, and more.
She teaches kids 7 and up the basics of traditional art using the old masters concepts. They learn drawing funda-
Her studio is located at 105 North Main Street. For more information, call (903) 830-6694 or visit maureenkillaby.com.
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Erwin Smith Captured the Cowboy Way in Early Northeast Texas Born in Honey Grove, near Bonham, Texas, on August 22, 1886, Erwin Evans Smith became a celebrated photographer who captured the cowboy life of the American West in the early 1900s. The Fannin County Museum of History in Bonham offers an exhibit of his life and photography and the bulk of his works are part of the collection of the Amon Carter Museum of American Art in Fort Worth. Smith grew up in Bonham, exhibiting an intense artistic interest as well as an abiding desire to dress like a real cowboy. Recognizing the cowboy lifestyle was fading away and after studying art in Chicago and Boston, he left for West Texas to try to capture the images with canvas and paintbrush. By age 25, he was fully committed to photographing instead of drawing what he saw in West Texas and parts of New Mexico and Arizona. Using unsophisticated lens and shutter and old fashioned film, he experimented with new methods of developing and printing. His images are said to be some of the best ever done of range life and provide a look at authentic Texas heritage of the early 20th century. Smith died in 1947 and some 1,800 of his photo negatives were loaned to the Library of Congress. In time, his family gave Smith’s entire collection to the Amon Carter Museum of American Art in Fort Worth. Today, he is considered one of the most important photographers of cowboy life. More on Smith -- including the historical marker at Oakwood Cemetery, Honey Grove, where he was buried in 1947 -- is available at www.fannincountyhistory.org and search collections on cartermuseum.org. TOP: Cowboy Henry Lyman and friend out looking for cattle. LS Ranch, Texas, 1907. MIDDLE: Fred “Kid” Bomar waiting with poised gun, and “Rabbit” the cutting horse. Turkey Track Ranch, Texas. 1906. BOTTOM: Photograph of the Matador outfit eating at the chuck wagon at the time Murdo Mackenzie, center with black hat and beard, took over the management of the ranch. At the extreme right is Henry H. “Paint” Campbell who established the ranch in 1879 with a half-dugout for headquarters. Matador Ranch, Texas. circa 1905-1910. JULY/AUGUST 2019 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 31
CAPTURED ART
AROUND THE BEND
Photographers share their views of the Upper East Side of Texas
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“This is an image of the Union Pacific Steam Engine 844 near Winona, Texas. Before it came around the bend, still behind the trees, I could see the steam rising above the treetops and feel the rumble of the giant pistons and wheels rolling along the tracks. It was a foreign, but oddly familiar sight. Like somewhere in my short life, I could reach back into another time and see these giant wonders rolling across the countryside.” Michelle Cahal 32 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • JULY/AUGUST 2019
LIGHT
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“Jack and a little lens flare.” Ricky Niell
OLD HOUSE ON HIGHWAY 11
“This black and white photo is of an old house on Highway 11 in Hopkins County. I’ve been shooting this dilapidated house for many years.” Curtis Miller
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TAWAKONI SUNSET
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“The smooth surface of water brings calmness. The rocks on the foreground offer safe foundation while watching the sun go down. It’s just one of those beautiful and peaceful golden hours in East Texas.” Ine Burke
DECLARATION
“Fireworks at the 4th annual Lake Fork Fireworks Show. I viewed the fireworks with smoke as signifying the sacrifices our ancestors, veterans, and military selflessly give so that Americans can live the lives we choose without fear of oppression. Photo also has some foreground of silhouetted ground cover and water reflection.” Mel McCaul Submit your photos of people, places and activities in the Upper East Side of Texas to editor@countylinemagazine.com. Must be high resolution. JULY/AUGUST 2019 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 33
STAGE
Summer Musicals Feature Fun for Audiences Young and Old
The hills are alive with the sound of music in the Upper East Side of Texas this summer. Stages in Greenville, Mineola, Athens, Tyler, Longview, Nacogdoches, Palestine, and Henderson are bringing great entertainment to audiences of all ages with some classic and favorites.
Shrek The Musical JR
Presented by the Tyler Civic Theatre, Shrek The Musical JR, is the the condensed version of the tale of everyone’s favorite ogre. Shows are July 5-6. Visit tylercivictheatre.com for tickets and call 903.592.0561 for more information.
Disney’s Frozen JR
Henderson Civic Theatre’s Limelight Players’ present Disney’s Frozen JR July 10-12 and 17-19. The show is based on the Broadway musical and brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to life onstage. The show features all of the memorable songs from the animated film. It’s a story of true love and acceptance between sisters and expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. Frozen JR is loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor. Call (903) 657-2968 and visit hendersoncivictheatre.org for more information.
Beauty and the Beast
The Greenville Family Theater presents Beauty and the Beast July 12, 13 and 19, 20 at the Greenville Municipal Auditorium. The classic “tale as old as time” features an arrogant young prince and his castle’s servants who fall under the spell of a wicked enchantress. She turns the prince into a hideous Beast until he learns to love and be loved in return. The spirited, headstrong village girl, Belle, enters the Beast’s castle after he imprisons her father. With the help of his servants,
Belle begins to draw the cold-hearted Beast out of his isolation. For times and tickets, call (903) 457.3126 or visit showtimeatthegma.com.
Beauty and the Beast JR
The Henderson County Performing Arts Center presents Beauty and the Beast JR July 18-21 and 25-27. This is the kid-sized version of the original. The play has more than 40 young actors and is directed by Ami Hickmon. Get tickets at hcpac.org or call (903) 675-3908 for more information.
Matilda The Musical
The Lamp-Lite Theatre in Nacogdoches presents Roald Dahl’s Tony-award winning Matilda The Musical. Matilda is a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence and psychokinetic powers. She’s unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher, the highly lovable Miss Honey. Over the course of her first term at school, Matilda and Miss Honey have a profound effect on each other’s lives, as Miss Honey begins not only to recognize but also appreciate Matilda’s extraordinary personality. Performance dates are July 12-14 and July 19-21. Go to lamplitetheatre.com for tickets or call 936.564.8300 for more information.
Ella Enchanted
ArtsView Children’s Theatre presents Ella Enchanted July 22-28 in Longview. At birth, Ella of Frell was given the “gift” of obedience by a misguided fairy. She must obey any order given to her, whether it’s hopping on one foot for a day or pulling her own hair. Unwilling to accept her fate, strong-willed Ella embarks on a quest to reverse this curse, encountering ogres, giants, wicked stepsisters, fairy godmothers, and a handsome prince along the way. Get tickets through artsviewchildrenstheatre.com or call 903.236.7535 for more information.
Disney’s Newsies The Musical
Tyler Civic Theatre presents Disney’s News-
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ies The Musical July 25 - August 11. This Disney film turned Tony-winning Broadway hit inspires everyone to fight for what’s right and seize the day. Set in turnof-the-century New York City, Newsies is the rousing tale of a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged “newsies.” Visit tylercivictheatre.com for tickets and call 903.592.0561 for more information.
My Son Pinocchio
The Palestine Community Theatre presents My Son Pinocchio: Geppetto’s Musical Tale July 26-28 and August 2-4. This is a musical based on the classic story told from the perspective of the father of the marionette-turned-real boy, Pinocchio. The show features classic songs, “When You Wish Upon a Star,” and “I’ve Got No Strings” and tackles timely issues about what it means to be the “perfect” child and what it means to be a real father. Geppetto journeys beyond the toy shop to discover the meaning of family. When the Blue Fairy grants Geppetto’s wish to bring his beloved puppet to life, the new father quickly learns that being a parent is full of challenges. For more information, go to thetexastheater.com.
Shrek the Musical
Mineola’s Lake Country Playhouse presents Shrek the Musical August 2-4 and 9-11 at the Historic Select Theater. Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks animation film, this show brings to life the little ogre named Shrek. This tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Throw in a shorttempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude and more than a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you’ve got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, Shrek saves the day. The theater is located at 114 N. Johnson Street. Call (903) 5692300 and visit lakecountrypalyhouse.com.
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 JULY/AUGUST 2019 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 35
LITERARY
Reading Program Bonds Children With Incarcerated Mothers
Through a nomination from the Texas Center for the Book, Women’s Storybook Project of Texas was selected for the 2019 Library of Congress State Literacy Award Program. Women’s Storybook Project of Texas connects incarcerated mothers with their children through the power of reading. The organization’s volunteers visit women’s prisons in Texas once a month to record eligible mothers reading books aloud to their children, as well as short, personalized messages. The volunteers then mail a copy of the book with the recording to the children. The Library of Congress accolade recognizes outstanding contributions to the promotion of literacy and reading in the local community and the state and includes an award of $2,225. A formal proclamation and check presentation took place during the quarterly meeting of the Texas State Library and Archives Commission in June at the Lorenzo de Zavala State Archives and Library Building on the Capitol Complex. Women’s Storybook Project of Texas received the Texas Center for the Book Literacy Award in 2018. This annual contest selects a nonprofit organization that has made significant contributions toward increasing literacy in Texas. The winner for the Texas Center for the Book Literacy Award receives the Center’s official nomination for the national Library of Congress State Literacy Award Program. Only nine organizations received the award this year. “Women’s Storybook Project of Texas utilize books as a powerful connector and encourage reading across generations,” said Texas Center for the Book Coordinator Rebekah Manley. “We are so pleased the judges at the Library of Congress saw the merit in their mission.”
to connect with their mothers through their voice and the shared experience of reading the same book. In 2018, Women’s Storybook Project recorded more than 1,600 sessions with mothers and mailed more than 3,500 books and recordings to children in 23 states.
Prison officials attribute an improvement in behavior at participating prisons because the incarcerated mothers must earn participation in the program by 90 days of good behavior. The children of incarcerated mothers are able
“We are so honored to receive this award,” commented founder and director, Judith Dullnig. “This will help to reinforce our mission of connecting children with their incarcerated moms and connecting them with literature and the joy of reading.”
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The award is made possible through the generosity of David M. Rubenstein and administered through the Library of Congress Center for the Book, a unit of the Center for Learning, Literacy and Engagement. For more information on initiatives of the Texas Center for the Book, a project of the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, visit www.tsl.texas.gov/ centerforthebook or contact Rebekah Manley, Texas Center for the Book Coordinator, at rmanley@tsl.texas.gov or (512) 936-2505.
POETRY
Poetry is when an emotion has found its thought and the thought has found words. Robert Frost
Hunting Hydrangeas
For My Wife, On No Special Occasion
Standing alone in a dark room, I see brown eyes staring back from the mirror. It’s time they say, but I know it’s too soon.
You know me well enough not to expect much in the way of romantic notions, even in a poem, where such expectations can be high. I won’t be saying that we are one (how boring would that be).
Forever keeping a close watch on me, I secretly creep down the steep stairs, wondering if I’ll ever again feel free.
Yet, on occasion, I am reminded of that slow, thorough collision of galaxies sometimes seen in deep space where shapes are reshaped and reshaped again and each reshaping reveals a sprinkling of unexpected colors across the dark night sky.
Always there reminding me day after day. I scream, I weep, and I fall to my knees, I beg, I plead, I bargain, and I even pray. Even as I look in the mirror and stare, those brown eyes are winking and twitching, daring me to move and telling me to beware.
More often though I think of how our lives are now so cross-referenced, so cross-indexed, that much can be unsaid, but understood, even in a poem, where expectations can be high.
To remember, to dream and even to pretend, I wander through life hunting hydrangeas, for time is neither my enemy nor my friend. Kathy Dodd Brownsboro
Goes the Time goes the time quietly and swiftly unnoticed in the struggle of life goes the time goes the days come summer and autumn and winter and spring again brown hair turns gray those so loved are in the grave live while the briefest sun does shine for quietly and swiftly goes the time Jill Cummings Tyler
Bill Faulkner Callender Lake
Friend
Distance Following white lines and memories under a black velvet sky, my mouth raw from muscadines and what I didn’t say on her front porch that summer night so long ago, but would like to say now. It’s seven miles to her house, but the kids inside aren’t mine, so I guess the wisest thing to do would be to keep driving, let the odometer remind me all the way home that distance is the only gift she needs from me.
SUBMIT YOUR POEM editor@countylinemagazine.com
It matters not to me, my friend, Which way the four winds blow, Nor will it change our friendship, Which way the rivers flow. Some friendships are like ocean waves, That cast upon the shore. They come in strong and strike with force, And then they are no more.
Darrell Lindsey Nacogdoches
for possible inclusion in a future County Line Magazine.
Each morning with the rising sun, And at the close of day, Our friendship is there to cheer me, And help me on my way.
Some friendships can be likened to The lovely Morning Star. They are always there to guide you And help you cross the bar. When your life down here is over, You start around the bend, Look back, you’ll see me coming. Please wait for me, my friend. Shirley Lollar Linden
JULY/AUGUST 2019 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 37
MUSIC
See www.countylinemagazine.com for extensive music listings.
Play It Forward With Music City Texas tions, and concert attendees are asked from the stage at some performances if anyone would want to donate to the program. The hope of the Play it Forward program is that each recipient will learn to play, continue to love music, and someday perform, perhaps even at the theater. They could also volunteer at the theater and get to know others who have a love for music. Almost everyone involved with Music City Texas is a musician and they all realize how much music has meant in their lives. If the students do not know someone who can teach them to play the guitar, people at the theater can help them learn.
Most recent recipients of guitars from the Play it Forward program are Nick Kuntz and Ryan Mitchell from Linden-Kildare High Shcool. They were presented their instruments by Cathy Watson, David Hulme, and Anna Barber. Courtesy photo
By Judy Peacock In 2003, an old American Legion hall from the 1950s in Linden opened as Music City Texas Theater, a place where local talent and nationally-known musicians perform. Its small stage and 400seat auditorium with great acoustics that create a special place for memorable concerts and events. Linden is the birthplace and hometown of Don Henley of the Eagles. He and Richard Bowden, Linda Ronstadt’s lead guitarist in the 1970s, grew up in Linden, played in bands at the former American Legion hall, and are enthusiastic promoters of the town’s impressive musical heritage. Today the music is passed down from one generation to the next with a community program through Music City Texas called Play it Forward. The organization gives guitars away to local students in the area. They decide on a school and ask the school’s band director and/or principal to select students for this honor, based on their true in-
terest in music. Financial situations are also taken into consideration, allowing sometimes for students to receive a musical instrument when they might not have ever afforded one. When Play it Forward first started about nine years ago, the organization was presenting guitars just about every month. The presentations have slowed down some over the years and especially this year because they have had a particularly busy season of big concerts at the theater. They intend to kick the program back off in the fall when the kids return from their summer break, and the plan is to make presentations every two or three months. Nice, name-brand guitars like Fender or Gibson are chosen and they get instruments with lighter strings closer to the body of the guitar so that it does not hurt the students’ fingers so much when they are learning. Students receive the guitar, a soft carrying case, and a small electronic tuner. Patrons of the theater make contribu-
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David Hulme, executive director of the theater, says he loves that this program expands these kids’ horizons. Hulme himself plays the guitar and the fiddle, and he says that music brings him joy. Another source of joy for him is being a part of presenting these guitars to the students at their schools. They are called to the principal’s office and sometimes the kids might worry that they are in trouble, but then they get a pleasant surprise. Most of the kids are really appreciative and very excited about receiving these instruments and learning how to play. Hulme remembers one particular girl in Texarkana who, when presented with her guitar, broke down and cried and said, “This is my guitar? And no one is going to take it away from me?” It really touched his heart and he was happy to tell her, “Yes, it is yours, and no one can take it away.” Through the Play it Forward program, they have covered schools in Texarkana, Longview, Atlanta, Hughes Springs, Linden, Bloomburg, Jefferson, and all of Cass County, and plan to continue to recycle back through these schools as long as the donations come in. Music City Texas is an important part of this region’s musical history. For more information, call (903)756-9934 or visit www.musiccitytexas.org.
LIVE MUSIC
MUSIC Dates and times are subject to change. Always call ahead before planning a visit.
EVERY WEEK
July 4
UPPER EAST SIDE OF TEXAS
Denison’s Music on Main-Scooter Brown Band. Downtown Denison, (903) 464-4452, denisonlive.com
www.countylinemagazine.com/Arts-Guide
Amanda Pruitt. Ben Wheeler. The Forge Bar & Grill, (903) 833-5970, theforgebenwheeler. com
Downtown Denison, (903) 464-4452, denisonlive.com
Bar & Grill, (903) 833-5970, theforgebenwheeler.com
July 4-6
July 25
August 9
Spazmatics - Concerts by the Lake. Rockwall. The Harbor, (972) 771-7740, playrockwall.com/concert-by-the-lake
Luke LaPrade. Ben Wheeler. Moore’s Store, (903) 833-5100, mooresstore.com
July 26
Summer Concert Series - The Tuxedo Cats. Palestine. Oxbow Hollow, (903) 729-6066, palestinechamber.org,
East Texas Country Music Festival. Grapeland. Salmon Lake Park, (214) 8973604, etcmf.com
July 5
Meredith Crawford. Van. Su Casa, (903) 963-2272, facebook.com/sucasavan
Denison’s Music on Main - Ty England. Downtown Denison, (903) 464-4452, denisonlive.com
Polydogs. Tyler. Stanley’s Famous Pit Bar-B-Q, (903) 593-0311, stanleysfamous.com
July 27
July 5-6
Koe Wetzel, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Grady Spencer & The Work, Vanilla Ice, Wade Bowen, Kevin Fowler, Read Southall, Back in Black. Gun Barrel City Park Amphitheater, (903) 887-1087, gunbarrelcity.net
July 11
Bon Jovi Tribute band - Concerts by the Lake. Rockwall. The Harbor, (972) 771-7740, playrockwall.com/concert-by-the-lake Sherman’s Hot Summer Nights - Escape, Journey Tribute band. Sherman,Municipal Lawn, (903) 892-7230, shermantx.org Vanessa Darien. Ben Wheeler. The Forge Bar & Grill, (903) 833-5970, theforgebenwheeler. com
July 12
Garden Valley Revue Live. Van. Su Casa, (903) 963-2272, facebook.com/sucasavan
Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Bluegrass Band. Winnsboro Center for the Arts, (903) 342-0686, winnsborocenterforthearts.com Infinite Journey (Journey Tribute). Royce City. Southern Junction, (972) 771-2418, southernjunctionlive.com Mouse and the Traps. Linden. Music City Texas Theater, (903) 756-9934, musiccitytexas. org
July 29
Billy Bob Thornton & The Boxmasters. Greenville. Texan Theater, (903) 259-6360, TexanTheaterGreenville.com
August 10
Song Swap Concert & Live CD Recording Session. Winnsboro Center for the Arts, (903) 342-0686, winnsborocenterforthearts.com Terri Hendrix & Lloyd Maines Album Release Party. Dallas. Poor David’s Pub, (214) 565-1295, poordavidspub.com
August 10-11
East Texas Sacred Harp Convention. Henderson Civic Center, (903) 863-5379, texasfasola.org
August 15
Heather Nikole Harper. Pickton. Foster’s Place Restaurant, (903) 866-0606, facebook. com/pages/Fosters-Place-Restaurant
August 17
Patrick James. Kilgore. Back Porch, (903) 984-8141, thebackporchkilgore.com
Hickory Hill Summer Bluegrass-40th Anniversary Celebration. Linden. Music City Texas Theater, (903) 756-9934, musiccitytexas.org
August 2
August 24
August 1
Kilgore’s Fridays After 5. Kilgore. Under the derricks, (903) 984-2593, welcometokilgore.com
Ellis Paul. Winnsboro Center for the Arts, (903) 342-0686, winnsborocenterforthearts.com
Denison’s Music on Main - Ghost Dance Band. Downtown Denison, (903) 464-4452, denisonlive.com
August 3
Mickey Gilley. Greenville Municipal Auditorium, (903) 457-3126, ShowtimeAtTheGMA.com
July 13
Chicago. Bossier City. Horseshoe’s Riverdome, (800) 895-0711, caesars.com/horseshoe-bossier-city
August 30
Summer Concert Series - The Magills. Palestine. Oxbow Hollow, (903) 729-6066, palestinechamber.org
Andie Kay Joyner. Van. Su Casa, (903) 9632272, facebook.com/sucasavan
August 8
Jennifer Sullivan. Ben Wheeler. The Forge
Josh Turner. Bossier City. Horseshoe’s Riverdome, (800) 895-0711, caesars.com/horseshoe-bossier-city
The Oak Ridge Boys and The Gatlin Brothers. Bossier City. Horseshoe’s Riverdome, (800) 895-0711, caesars.com/horseshoe-bossiercity Joe Savage. Ben Wheeler. The Forge Bar & Grill, (903) 833-5970, theforgebenwheeler.com
July 18
CCR Tribute, Bad Moon Rising - Concerts by the Lake. Rockwall. The Harbor, (972) 771-7740, playrockwall.com/concert-by-the-lake
afsp.org
July 19
Denison’s Music on Main - Chris Colston. JULY/AUGUST 2019 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 39
Country Music’s Kathy Mattea Comes to Lufkin
Tickets are on sale now for “An Evening with Kathy Mattea” presented by The Pines Theater and the Angelina Arts Alliance at 7 p.m. November 22 at the historic Pines Theater. Hailed by The Washington Post as ‘one of Nashville’s finest song interpreters,’ Kathy Mattea has enjoyed the kind of success many artists only dream of: two Grammy wins, four Country Music Association (CMA) awards, four #1 country singles, and five gold albums (plus a platinum collection of her greatest hits). The dream might have ended when Mattea entered her 50s and began to find her voice changing. What followed was a three-year journey through life challenges, soul-searching, and professional uncertainty, a trying time of personal anguish that in the end brought her unexpected joy.
“The hardest thing was facing the question of whether I would still be able to sing well enough to enjoy it,” Mattea says. “That was the acid test for me and I had to be willing to walk through a process that bumped me up against the very real possibility that, in the end, the answer might be ‘no.’” Mattea dug in with a vocal coach, recommitted to her music, and emerged with the most poignant album of her career, Pretty Bird. Working with her old friend, music roots wizard Tim O’Brien producing, Pretty Bird is a chronicle of her journey, song by song, back to singing for the sheer joy of it. It’s an emotional, moving collection, one that draws its strength not only from Mattea’s touching performances, but also from her uncanny ability to weave seemingly disparate material into a cohesive whole. From a playful take on Oliver Wood’s
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“Chocolate On My Tongue” to a tender rendition of Mary Gauthier’s “Mercy Now,” from a British traditional to a Bobbie Gentry classic, these are the songs that helped Mattea reclaim her voice. Rolling Stone says Pretty Bird “closes with Mattea’s spine-chilling a cappella rendition of the Hazel Dickenspenned title track [and] melds the singer’s Appalachian roots with her impeccable song sense.” Exquisitely arranged and delivered with the kind of subtlety and nuance that can only come from a lifetime of heartbreak and triumph, Pretty Bird is a title Mattea inhabits quite literally, and it’s a welcome reintroduction to one of country and Americana music’s most enduring and beloved figures. For tickets go to angelinaarts.org or call the box office at (936) 633-5454.
Sunday Afternoon Classical Series Celebrates Fourth Season at Winnsboro Center for the Arts
By Terry Mathews Winnsboro Center for the Arts presents its 2019-2020 Sunday Afternoon Classical Series lineup beginning September 1 with the return of Mount Vernon Music’s Orchard Ensemble. Beloved MVM founders violinist Mark Miller and violist Ute Miller are joined by violinist Yuko Mansell and cellist Zachery Mansell. On October 13, Mercury Chamber Orchestra, billed as an eight-piece “Vivaldi Baroque Extravaganza,” takes the stage. The group includes a harpsichord.
On November 3, oboist Emily Tsai, of the popular group WindSync, returns to the WCA stage as an accompanist for classical guitarist William Feasley. Closing out the series is Mary Dibbern, music director of education at the Dallas Opera. She is returning for her fourth appearance on the WCA stage January 5, 2020. Performing with Dibbern are soprano Gabrielle Gilliam and Malcom Payne Jr. who plays the flute and adds his baritone voice to the performance. “It is a joy and a privilege to return for the fourth season to the Classical Se-
ries,” Dibbern said. “Every singer who has come to Winnsboro with me has treasured the opportunity to perform for such a warm audience in such a beautiful setting.” Tickets are available on Eventbrite or through winnsborocenterforthearts. com. Ticket prices range from $39 to $89. The $89 subscription includes seating at bistro tables. The Winnsboro Center for the Arts is located at 200 Market Street in downtown Winnsboro. Call (903) 342-0686 for more information.
Carlos Santana and The Doobie Brothers Perform in Dallas Photo by Libby Fabro
sion is a look back, Santana assures that he has new material for his die-hards to vibe on.
Carlos Santana and The Doobie Brothers head to Dos Equis Pavilion in Dallas July 6. Santana’s successful pop gamble of a comeback album Supernatural is turning 20 this year and he’s celebrating the milestone with a tour across America. It’s been a full 50 years since his band wowed Woodstock crowds and gained fans across the globe. Though the occa-
LIVE. DREAM. EXPLORE.
Upper East Side of Texas
“We’re always moving forward, and we have incredible new songs and melodies that will inspire you,” Santana said in a statement. “I feel like a 20 year old on stage playing with this band, and they deliver on every song. When we hit the stage, we know we will touch your heart and make you dance, sing, cry, laugh, and leave your baggage behind.” The Supernatural Now tour features support from legendary soft-rockers The Doobie Brothers, another classic band that evokes memories for thousands of baby boomers and new generations. For tickets visit paviliondallas.com. RESTAURANT LIVE MUSIC FULL BAR MOORE FUN! Ben Wheeler, TX
mooresstore.com 903.833.5100
county line MAGAZINE
countylinemagazine.com (903) 963-1101
JULY/AUGUST 2019 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 41
Justin Kemp Is Writing Songs and Touring Texas Malone, he says. He also likes the Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Marvin Gaye, The Beatles, Garth Brooks, Steve Winwood, and Peter Gabriel. “I am inspired by whatever hits me. I like great lyrics, melody, and structure.” While songwriting is his greatest passion, he enjoys performing both solo and with his band — Justin Kemp Band — and it helps him get what he needs out of the songs. “The thing I like most about being a songwriter is the ability to create. I like performing because it gives me a chance to hone-in on my songs — the ability to see which parts people react to the most. This helps in my writing process.” With about 25 years experience now, he’s got his creative process down. “I have to have something to write about at first. Then, I start messing around with different ideas and chord progressions. From there whatever feeling invokes me I write about, then I focus on lyrics, then structure and after that arrangement.” Some of his favorite words he’s written are in his song “So Mean” — “your tongue spits fire and your words take root.”
By P.A. Geddie Performing singer/songwriter Justin Kemp of Dallas is making the rounds this summer in the Upper East Side of Texas. Kemp writes and sings with “lone star attitude” and all the momentum and spirit he absorbed from a household of eight brothers and sisters and a father that was into country-western music. “Acts like Hank Williams and Ray Price were his favorites,” Kemp says. “I guess music has always been around in one way or another.”
He got started in music in his 7th grade year in school and hasn’t stopped being involved in bands, performing, and songwriting ever since. He says he finds inspiration all around. “I try to make my music representative of myself and my generation. I love the places that most people don’t give a second glance. My music is a reflection of my experiences — heart break, redemption, and joy.” Like his father, he’s inspired by Hank Williams and also Classic Rock legends like Toto and new artists like Post
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“It was one of my most painful songs to write but it was very cleansing,” Kemp says. “I was going through a divorce and these are things I wanted to say to my ex but I started thinking that maybe these were things my children were picking up on too. When I realized my kids were probably thinking these things of me, it really hit home.” Kemp has an EP entitled “Drive On” that he released in 2017. He puts out singles now and there are links to them on his website. One running theme often shows up in his writing. “I’m finding that the ‘road’ has been coming up a lot in my songs.” That’s good news for fans who want to see his shows.
“I love performing in more intimate settings like songwriter nights. Twenty to 40 people are perfect. Wineries are great.”
VISIT
Gun Barrel City
A few of his upcoming gigs include the East Texas Country Music Festival in Grapeland July 4, Music on Main in Royse City July 12, Halcyon Dallas July 18, Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards in Pittsburg July 19, Chestnut Square Heritage Village in McKinney July 21, Lone Star Wine Cellars July 27 and Rick’s Chophouse in McKinney August 1, Downtown Rockwall August 17, and Moore’s Store in Ben Wheeler August 23.
“Struggling with sin,” he says. “We all have the struggle. Sometimes I like the fight but sometimes I like the peace.” He likes island life, beaches, road trips, and adventures and wants to get more into boating. He has his real estate license but he’s making more money with his music now so that’s where he’s happy to spend his time along with heavy doses of family. It’s family that matters to him most and when his road in this life comes to an end he hopes that’s how he’s best remembered. “Being a good dad, son, and friend,” he says is most important. “I would like God to tell me, ‘Well done.’” Learn more on JustinKempSongs.com
Come Stay & Play. We Aim to Please!
JULY FEST Gun Barrel City Park
JULY 6 JULY 5
When he’s not on the road, Kemp’s favorite thing in the world is spending time with his family and raising two boys. And his least favorite thing is a bit more complicated.
...Shootin' Straight for 50 Years
C O N C E R T S
C A R N I V A L F I R E W O R K S
Koe Wetzel. Ray Wylie Hubbard. Grady Spencer & The Work
Vanilla Ice. Wade Bowen. Kevin Fowler. Read Southall. Back in Black
903.887.1087 • www.gunbarrelcity.net
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Weekender MAGAZINE
FUN GUIDE for the Upper East Side of Texas
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FOOD & DRINK
Hatch Green Chile Fest Returns to Paris
Hatch Chile Fest returns to the Market Square in Paris, Texas, on Saturday August 31, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Roasted chile peppers from New Mexico, mariachi music, kids games, and burger sliders are all part of the festivities. On that day, vendor Ron Preusse and a few others bring their chile roasters to the market, permeating the whole area with the delicious aroma. Preusse, one of the roasters and event planners, drives out to New Mexico during the week prior to the event to bring back 2,500 pounds of fresh chiles. A “Hatch chile” refers to varieties of chiles that are grown in the Hatch Valley, an area stretching north and south along the Rio Grande from Arrey, New Mexico, in the north to Tonuco Mountain to the southeast of Hatch, New Mexico. The flavor is described as lightly pungent similar to an onion, or like garlic with a subtly sweet, spicy, crisp, and smoky taste.
Beginning at 10 a.m., Paris Main Street volunteers serve slider-sized chile burgers made with Paris Bakery fresh-made buns. Fresh Hatch chiles top the sliders and are available while supplies last. Donations are accepted. “Ron is the go-to person for Hatch chiles,” says Cheri Bedford, Paris Farmers Market manager. “He is very familiar with the Southwestern delicacy and want to share this experience with others.” Entertainment by Mariachi Quetzal, a band from Denton, Texas, adds to the Southwestern-themed day. The band serenades patrons from 10 a.m. to noon. Quetzal has played at various venues in the Dallas/Ft Worth area such as The Kessler Theater, The Granada Theater, Dan’s Silverleaf, The Murchison Performing Arts Center, and The
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Meyerson Symphony Center. Mariachi Quetzal has won a Dallas Observer Music Award for best Latin group. Other events throughout the day include chile-themed items from participating vendor tables and kid’s activities. Farmers market T-shirts are also for sale on this day. For a full schedule check the Market Square Farmers Market -Paris Texas Facebook page. This event is in its fifth year and continues to grow. “You can buy canned green chiles but you can’t buy the smell of the fresh chile roasting, the feel of the charred skin or enjoy the incredible taste of a fresh-roasted Hatch Green Chile unless you come tsee for yourself,” Preusse says. For more information contact Bedford at (903) 784-9293 or email mainstreet@ paristexas.gov.
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Burgers, Premium Hand-Dipped Ice Cream, Breakfast Anytime, and more
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Open 24/7 at
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Open 24/7 at
903-567-6551 • dairypalace.com
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Tuesday & Wednesday
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T E X A S
FOOD AND BEVERAGE NEWS CountyLineMagazine.com/Feast-Texas JULY/AUGUST 2019 • WWW.COUNTYLINEMAGAZINE.COM • 45
Feed My Sheep Cookbook Offers Summer Salad Recipes The Dinner Bell cooks are part of First United Methodist Church in Sulphur Springs and along with serving meals every Wednesday to those who need a hot meal, they produced a cookbook, Feed My Sheep, a few years ago under the direction of Chef Lyndsay Caldwell. Many delicious recipes are available in this cookbook and below are two of the salad recipes perfect for a summer day. Proceeds from the sale of the book go to feed those in need in Hopkins County. To order, call (214) 478-3712 or email sallyhamilton7@gmail.com.
Lemon Asparagus Salad INGREDIENTS: Zest of 1 small lemon 2 tsp. lemon juice 2 tsp. champagne vinegar 2 Tbsp. minced shallot Salt and pepper 3 Tbsp. pine nuts 1 lb. thick asparagus spears, bottom inch removed 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil ½ cup packed shaved Parmesan cheese (about 1-1/2 oz.) 1 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil STEPS: Combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, vinegar, shallot and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside. Toast the pine nuts in a dry medium pan over medium heat, shaking the pan regularly, until golden brown, about five minutes. Transfer to a small bowl. Using a vegetable peeler, thinly slice the asparagus lengthwise into strips. Transfer strips to a large bowl. Whisk the olive oil into the vinegar mixture. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
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3-Pepper Pasta Salad INGREDIENTS: 1 (16-oz.) pkg. pasta 2/3 cup olive oil 3 Tbsp. white wine vinegar ¼ cup fresh basil leaves 2 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese 1 ¼ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. ground black pepper 1 red bell pepper, julienned 1 yellow bell pepper, julienned 1 orange bell pepper, julienned 1 medium fresh tomato, chopped 2 cups broccoli florets 1 small purple onion, chopped 5 green onions, sliced 1 (2-oz.) can black olives, drained 8 oz. mozzarella cheese, cubed STEPS: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Place pasta in the pot, cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain. In a blender or food processor, blend the olive oil, white wine vinegar, basil, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper until smooth. In a large bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, dressing mixture, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, orange bell pepper, tomato, broccoli, onion, green onions and olives. Top with mozzarella cheese to serve. Makes 4-6 servings.
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Enjoy Farmers’ Markets in the
Upper East Side of Texas
SOME OPEN YEAR ROUND. CHECK WEBSITES FOR DAYS AND TIMES AND INDIVIDUAL MARKET AND FARM OFFERINGS.
CANTON
www.CantonMainStreet.org
GREENVILLE
www.ci.Greenville.TX.us/market
LONGVIEW
www.HistoricLongviewFarmersMarket.com
McKINNEY
www.ChestnutSquare.org
MINEOLA
www.MineolaFarmersMarket.com
MOUNT VERNON
www.MountVernonTxFarmersMarket.com
PARIS
www.ParisTexas.gov
ROCKWALL
www.RockwallFarmersMarket.org
SULPHUR SPRINGS
www.SulphurSpringsTx.org
WINNSBORO
www.WinnsboroFarmersMarket.com