e at & d r i n k | p i c t u r e t h i s ! | o n e - ta n k t r i p
view
marcH/aPriL 2017Â
COVER STORY
farm to
table
Flip-the-issue
ALSO INSIDE
remember why you started
East Texas CASA
making a difference
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march/april 2017
contents re view 6 7
TO EaT: Divine Catering TO DRInK: Bootleggers
heALth view 8
Sleep it Off
fit view 10
Remember Why You Started
cover view 12
Farm to Table
12
trAveL view 16
One-Tank Trip: aThEnS
non-profit view 18
East Texas CaSa: Making a Difference
event view 20
Women in Longview Day
in every issue 5 21 23
Letter Calendar of Events Picture This!
10
8 on the Cover Zareen Khan and her husband, Sami, own Chillum Grill & More Indian and Mediterranean Restaurant in Longview. Zareen Khan shops at the Historic Longview Farmers Market when it’s open, using her finds at the market to form a special for the menu each Saturday and the Sunday buffet.
4 view | M a R C H / a p R I L
Dear Readers, Spring is in the air! Spring is my favorite season of the year. As I see flowers budding and trees growing new leaves, I’m always reminded that everything can begin again. To me spring brings with it so much hope. For me, it’s a time of renewal and a chance to embrace something new. When bought my first home three and a half years ago, that first spring I remember being so excited to plant something – literally anything – in a little bed near my front door. Living in an apartment for all of my adult life to that point, I had never had earth to call my own where I could plant anything. That spring, I was so excited to try my hand at planting seeds and watching them grow, but I was also scared because I don’t exactly have a green thumb. I grew up in a family of women who garden. As a child, my mom and dad’s first house was right behind two homes occupied by my great-grandmother and her sister, my great-great-aunt Jennie. My Aunt Jennie had a vast garden between my parents’ house and her house where she grew all types of vegetables. When she babysat me as a child, I remember helping in her garden, planting seeds and picking green beans. The garden was such a source of pride for her and she meticulously cared for it as long as she could. Meanwhile, my grandmother loves all types of plants and has worked throughout her life to turn her backyard into utopia with all types of flowers and plants that she tends to. Growing up, my mom also had a variety of flowers and plants that she kept in beds at our house and, in her retirement, has embarked into the realm of vegetable gardening. So when that first spring came in my house, I decided to try planting an annual called “Strawberry Fields.” My mom suggested it because I’m a huge Beatles fan and “Strawberry Fields Forever” is one of my favorite songs. She suggested it to me and I knew it would be perfect. So I planted seeds and I watered the earth, and I just KNEW they were not going to grow. But then one day I walked outside and saw growth … and I cried tears of joy! Strawberry Fields grow tall and the flower resembles a bright red strawberry with yellow seeds. That spring, the Strawberry Fields grew tall and beautiful. They came back the last two years. I also discovered that first spring that I had rose bushes at my house, which I also enjoyed tending to. I’m certainly no Master Gardener, but that year I discovered that my thumb isn’t quite as black as I thought it was, and one day I look forward to having time to learn more about gardening. This spring, I would encourage you to try something new during a season filled with so much promise that it feels like anything is possible. You also might discover something about yourself in the process!
The Cat In The Hat 2.27.17 Sponsored by Spencer Orthodontics
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news-journal.com 5
review
to
eat
divine catering
have you had one of those mornings? The alarm clock didn’t go off, the kids couldn’t find the one shoe that is always missing when it is time to leave? You have 30 emails waiting for you when you get to work and you spilled coffee on your shirt rushing to your desk to answer the phone? a very stressful morning? Then you think about lunch when things start to slow a bit after the first few hours. and you think, “i need something comforting after this morning.” That’s where Divine catering can make your day better. as their logo says, “For the mind, body and SOUl.” This restaurant serves up soul food that comforts your soul. From fried pork chops to chicken and dumplings, this place delivers comfort on a plate. The pork chops can be fried, grilled or smothered with brown gravy. i believe that everything is good in moderation, so go ahead and order the pork chops fried. maybe have the side salad instead of fried okra, but really, no, get the fried okra. Just walk an extra 10 minutes tonight. The beef tips and rice are tender, juicy and will put a smile in your belly. Served with cornbread, i chose green beans and purple hull peas. i needed a nap after. another favorite is the chicken spaghetti. ask your friends that have been about the chicken spaghetti and they won’t stop
salivating while describing it. and then you’ll start salivating, everybody will need a napkin. There are so many good choices on the menu – meatloaf, fried chicken, catfish (fried or grilled), chicken fried steak, chicken and dressing (only on Sundays) – you might need a minute or two to narrow down what is going to comfort you today. With a good assortment of sides such as fried okra, corn, mac and cheese, greens and more, whatever you choose, you will not be disappointed and you’ll leave satisfied. The food is delicious, and the atmosphere is relaxed. after a hectic morning, this place will do you good for lunch. and if by some miracle, you either did not get full from one of their delicious entrees or had enough restraint not to eat it all in one go, get a piece of pie. Or get it to go for an afternoon snack. and there’s good news for Diana residents. You won’t have to drive all the way to longview as Divine catering is opening a second location in your neck of the woods at the end of February. divine catering 1310 S. Mobberly Ave. Longview | (903) 234-8881 www.enjoydivinecatering.com | www.facebook.com/DivineCateringLongview/ 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday; CLOSED SATURDAY
Takes Reservations No | Delivery Yes | Take-out Yes | Accepts Credit Cards Yes | Good for Groups Yes | Attire Casual | Ambience Casual Noise Level Average | Alcohol No | Happy Hour No | Outdoor Seating No | Has TV Yes | Waiter Service Yes | Caters
SurfBoardS or Sand caStleS
...your choice! 6 view | m a r c h / a p r i l
100 E. Tyler St. | Longview, Texas 903.753.5896 • 800.253.2961 www.mastertrvl.com
review
to
drink
bootlegger grill
As March arrives, it ushers in March Madness and I, for one, of alcohol that tasted exactly like peach cobbler. It was delectable. My enjoy watching a good basketball game. In Longview, I can’t think boyfriend tried a beer called “Reasonably Corrupt,” black lager that is of any place better to take in the college basketball tournament than brewed by Great Raft Brewing in Shreveport. He reported that it was excellent. My girlfriend had Deep Eddy Lemon Vodka mixed with club Bootlegger Grill. On a Thursday night in February, my boyfriend and I joined friends soda and lime. She said it was great for having a drink but was still in the at Bootlegger where college basketball games abounded on a multitude spectrum of being “healthy.” Her boyfriend had a Saint Arnold amber of TV screens. There were many people at Bootlegger, but it wasn’t so ale, which is offered for $2 all day everyday as a Bootlegger special. In crowded that you couldn’t have a decent conversation. That’s exactly addition to that, Bootlegger offers daily drink specials that you can find on their menu. what I like in a sports bar. For dinner, Bootlegger offers everything from traditional “bar food,” Bootlegger features a series of booths inside, each of which has its such as burgers and sandwiches, to nicer entrees, such as grilled chicken own small TV. It also has several tables that are well-spaced, and features Alfredo. We had the “The Godfather,” a burger topped with a fried egg several seats around the bar itself. Above the bar are a series of larger and bacon; “The Mac Attack,” a hamburger topped with house-made TVs and there are even more TVs on other walls. It also has an outdoor bacon mac ‘n’ cheese; a chicken quesadilla served with guac and pico; patio, perfect for spring nights. and a house salad. Portions are generous and you won’t leave hungry. The staff at Bootlegger is super friendly and laid back. They’re The food tasted freshly made and came out warm. One thing I really knowledgeable about the menu and our server was able to answer enjoy about Bootlegger is that for a sports bar, the food – at least on our questions we had about their offerings. visit – isn’t greasy. That’s something that can be hard to find. We chose to start with Bootlegger’s pub chips and queso while Overall, we had a fantastic night out. We’ll certainly be back at waiting for our drinks. The pub chips came out hot and fresh, and the Bootlegger for March Madness! queso had a great flavor. It’s a must-have any time we go there. Bootlegger grill Next up was our drinks. Bootlegger offers an array of beers and a
cocktail menu that is just is vast and even features its own moonshine. I tried the “Southern Peach Cobbler,” a frozen drink with a mixture
1217 McCann Road, Longview | (903) 230-2668 www.bootleggergrill.com 11 a.m. – 1 a.m. Monday-Wednesday; 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; 11 a.m. – 12 a.m. Sunday
Accepts Credit Cards Yes | Good for Groups Yes | Attire Casual | Ambience Sports Bar Casual | Noise Level Average | Alcohol Full Bar Happy Hour Yes | Outdoor Seating Yes | Has TV Yes | Waiter Service Yes | Best Nights Thu, Fri, Sat
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Sparkling clean driveways, pool decks, fences 322 W Tyler St Longview, TX | 903-212-9080 | floor-medic.com news-journal.com 7
healthview
sleep it off Words by chriSTiNa laNe
You’ve
probably heard before that a good
tend to go to bed earlier and sleep a bit later in the mornings. in
night’s rest is key to overall health.
the summer we go to bed a little later and get up earlier.”
But are you truly aware of the effect sleep has on your body and
To help ease the transition, conn recommends starting to go to
are you aware of how your sleep can be impacted by changes in
bed five to 10 minutes earlier a couple of weeks before “springing
the environment?
forward” into daylight saving time.
There’s no better time to talk about sleep than march as it is designated as Sleep awareness month. Wayne conn, Sleep lab coordinator with christus Good Shepherd medical center in longview, says sleep is important
“This will prepare your body to make the jump come once the time changes. You will want to wake up 5 to 10 minutes earlier as well. … Just remember to reverse the bedtimes before the winter time change,” he says.
to humans because it is directly tied to the secretion of human
But even those who try their best to get a good night’s sleep may
Growth hormone (hGh), which plays an important role in the
find themselves struggling. according to the Sleep health index
body repairing damage and is a major contributor of growth in
from the National Sleep Foundation, 45 percent of americans say
children. conn says that children who are sleep deprived have a
that poor or insufficient sleep affects their daily activities.
tendency to be obese. For adults, sleep disturbance can lead to the onset of type 2 diabetes. “human health is based on principle foundations: nutrition, exercise and sleep. remove just one of these foundation builders and the human body systems will fail,” conn says. as we move into spring and daylight saving time, conn says the change in the environment can affect sleep.
millions of americans suffer from a variety of sleep disorders. Some of the most prevalent, conn says, are sleep apnea, insomnia and narcolepsy. anyone who suspects they might have a sleep disorder should first and foremost talk with a physician, he says. “There are many treatments and tests that may be done to help you get a great night’s sleep,” conn says. “The first thing she or he may prescribe is a polysomnogram. it is a big word meaning sleep
“our seasons have daylight variations. The length of daylight
study. You will be scheduled to spend a night in a sleep center.
hours change our body’s internal clock,” he says, referencing a
The rooms will be similar to a hotel or a family bedroom. a series
study. “in the winter we want to delay going to bed. The lack of
of wires recording brain waves, respiration, heart, oxygen levels
sun sets our internal clock and this shifts our sleep patterns. We
and movement will be attached. all of this recorded information
8 view | m a r c h / a p r i l
will help the board sleep certified physician make the correct diagnosis to help you get a better night’s sleep.” For anyone looking to get a better night’s sleep, regardless
The Sleep Lab at Christus Good Shepherd Medical in Longview accepts patients 1 month and older. A physician referral is required. For questions about the sleep lab, call (903) 315-2366.
of whether you feel you may have a sleep disorder, Conn recommends not watching TV in the bedroom, or spending time on the computer or other electronic devise at bedtime. “Keep that cell phone a minimum of 6 feet away from your head. A study from Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston did discover that late night use of cell phones and iPads did show a lower level of melatonin, a hormone linked to sleepiness in the blood,” Conn says. “Pin point lights that are blue or green may also stop melatonin production thus disrupting or delaying your sleep. Pin point lights, such as non-blue biased white, amber or red, are fine.” Conn also recommends keeping the room cooled to 65 to 69 degrees, but also keeping warm blankets in a chilled room. “The head and air you breathe should be cool,” he says. If you’re asking yourself how many hours of sleep you really need, Conn says to remember that if “we all sleep 8 we will feel great; sleeping 8.5 will help us thrive.” Children, he adds, need more sleep – about nine to 10 hours each night through 12th grade.
Tips for beTTer sleep • Stick to a regular schedule: Going to sleep and waking up at the same times each day helps regulate the body’s internal clock • Create a bedtime ritual: A relaxing, routine activity right before bedtime helps the transition to a restful time • Avoid naps: Naps, especially in the afternoon, can cause disruptions to the body’s internal clock • Exercise daily: Vigorous exercise is best, but even light exercise is better than no activity • Evaluate the bed: Use a mattress and pillows that are supportive and comfortable • Avoid bright light: Bright light can disrupt the circadian rhythm, especially right before bed • Avoid alcohol, cigarettes and heavy meals: Alcoholic beverages, caffeinated drinks and cigarettes can make it difficult to fall and stay asleep, and heavy meals right before bed can lead to indigestion Source: National Sleep Foundation
news-journal.com 9
fitview
remember why you started Words by christiNa laNE
it’s
march. how’s your New Year’s fitness or diet
Gordy said she often hears people who feel like they have failed
resolution going? if it’s not going so well, fear not.
because they didn’t have time to work out for 30 minutes five days
You have plenty of time to get back on track.
a week, so they give up. But what people need to remember is that
thousands of people make New Year’s resolutions every year, and
anything counts. if you don’t have time to hit the gym for 30 minutes,
weight loss or healthier eating tops the list of resolutions in just about
just the simple act of taking a 10-minute walk around your block can
any study you look at. some people maintain those resolutions all
do wonders.
year long, but for many a detour happens the second or third week of January.
“the important thing is to get yourself moving. Even 10 or 15 minutes is better than nothing. Do what you can when you can,” she said.
according to U.s. News and World report, about 80 percent of
Because life is so hectic, she highly encourages people to schedule
people fail their New Year’s resolution by mid-February. But that
workouts into their weeks. along those same lines, having an
doesn’t mean you’re a failure and nor should it mean that you give
accountability partner also helps. studies show that people who have
up for the year.
an accountability partner are more likely to maintain their resolution
“Just pick up where you are right now. Don’t wait,” said amanda Gordy, a personal trainer with the Good shepherd institute for healthy living. if your motivation is waning for your fitness or healthier living goal, Gordy has some advice to help you get back on track.
than those who do not. “an accountability partner can be someone you work out with or it could be a personal trainer,” Gordy said. “trainers are here to support you and help you get where you want to be.” another key is to set small goals. New Year’s resolutions often are big
“We see a rush of people who start on their fitness journey at the
goals, such as losing 50 pounds in a year. But people often get discouraged
beginning of the year, but then people get bogged down with work
when that weight doesn’t come off as quickly as they wanted. that’s
and kids – life,” Gordy said. “so the first thing i would encourage is to
why it’s better to make small goals by breaking the overall goal into
go back to why you started the journey; why you set that goal.”
smaller milestones.
it’s important to reconnect with the reason for your resolution to help you get refocused and motivated again. 10 view | m a r c h / a p r i l
“if you make smaller goals, they will be more attainable and you will stay more encouraged because you will be able to meet them,” Gordy said.
And just because the number on the scale might not be changing, it doesn’t mean your body isn’t. Gordy said people should take their measurements instead of looking at the scale so frequently. “You’re going to lose inches. I always say go by how your clothes fit,” she said.
“We hear it all the time, but breakfast really is the most important meal of the day because it kick starts your metabolism,” she said. If you’re feeling bored in the gym, change it up. Many gyms, the Institute for Healthy Living included, offer a variety of classes so you
So if you feel like you’ve hit a plateau on your weight loss journey,
don’t have to do the same thing each time you go. The Institute offers
try pulling out a tape measure. It’s not healthy to weigh or measure
more than 100 classes each week, with some of the most popular
daily though, Gordy said. Some people become too focused on the scale and get discouraged. She encourages people to weigh weekly and take your measurements about monthly. “As a trainer, I like to have people take their measurements every four to six weeks to see where you’ve lost,” she said. If you’re working out and eating right, you will lose weight. Every four to six weeks you’ll have the opportunity to see progress and possibly meet one of your smaller goals. But just because you meet a goal, don’t use it as an excuse to cheat and go out to eat a big,
being Zumba, cycling and BODYPUMP. “If you do the same class daily, you’ll plateau at a certain point. You want to keep variety in your schedule to keep challenging your body,” she said. So throughout the year, any time you feel like quitting, think about why you started. Set SMART goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-based, Gordy said. “Fall in love with taking care of yourself – mind, body and spirit,”
unhealthy meal. “I encourage people to buy a new workout outfit as a treat. People like to look good in the gym, so if you treat yourself to a new outfit, it’ll let you show off your progress while also rewarding yourself,” she said. Because nutrition plays a key role in weight loss and overall fitness,
she said. It’s March. Your resolution may have fallen by the wayside, but don’t give up. Perseverance is the key to achieving any goal. Forgive
Gordy encouraged people to eat small portions and simply know what
yourself and pick up today where you left off. Here’s to a happy and
you’re eating. And don’t skip breakfast!
healthier you!
New GardeN area!
CFasalora flower shop
Opening Soon
Monday ~ Friday 8:30am - 5pm • Saturday 8am - Noon
314 Magnolia Lane, Longview • www.casafloraflowers.com • 903.753.4492 news-journal.com 11
COVER VIEW
FARMto TABLE Words by JO LEE FERGUSON Photos by CHRIS LOZANO
The proof is in the pudding. Or more accurately, on a November night at High Hill Farm’s Côte restaurant outside of Overton, the proof was in the potato cake with harvest ratatouille and crab, or the acorn squash with blue cheese and parsley vinaigrette and, finally, in the butternut squash bundt cake with gingerbread glaze. Erin Willis, High Hill Farm’s executive chef and catering director, had designed a four-course meal for the evening featuring produce from the Red Moon Farm in Van, where the restaurant purchases much of its produce. The restaurant, as much as possible, follows the “farm to table” philosophy, using seasonal produce grown locally and other local products. High Hill Farms also grows some of the produce used in its menus. Sharon and Jason Romano opened High Hill Farm and its restaurant in 2015, after leaving their life in Dallas. They built the farm and restaurant based around things they love – Napa Valley, Italy, the Florida Panhandle. They invited Willis, a friend who had cooked for parties for them professionally, to be the chef. Jason Romano
Mixed Grill Platter
CHILLUM GRILL & MORE
12 VIEW | M A R C H / A P R I L
had owned his own business as a high-end home builder, and so it was important to them to “shop local” when it came to their restaurant.
That cabbage didn’t sit in a box, travel in a truck or sit on a shelf. “I can literally walk 100 steps, whack off a piece of cabbage and it literally comes from my farm to my prep table,” Willis says. “Yes. I do think it tastes better.” Zareen Khan agrees. She owns Chillum Grill & More Indian and Mediterranean Restaurant in Longview with her husband, Sami. Zareen Khan shops at the Historic Longview Farmers Market when it’s open, using her finds at the market to form a special for the menu each Saturday and the Sunday buffet. She and her husband also purchase from a local farmer year-round and travel to a farmers market in Dallas each Monday to try to keep the restaurant in as much farm-fresh produce and other products as possible.
House Salad with Shrimp
During growing season, Khan also keeps
CHILLUM GRILL & MORE
herbs
and
some
vegetables
growing
on
Chillum’s grounds. The
farm-to-table
concept,
Willis
says,
“I really do appreciate our farmers, and you can
involves using as many local resources as much
taste a difference in the tomatoes, turnip greens –
as possible before turning to the various large
on anything you can taste a difference,” she says.
food distributors. That means harvesting from the
It’s fresher. “It doesn’t have chemicals used on it.
High Hill Farm first, then area farmers, then, if
There is a big taste difference.”
there’s no one close, perhaps Austin, Houston or elsewhere in Texas.
The concept has taken hold in bigger cities such as Dallas, Willis says.
“A lot of people would say it’s really not that
“It’s kind of a new and growing thing in East
big of a deal,” Willis says of eating farm to table.
Texas. People want to know where their food
“To some people, it probably isn’t, but as a chef,
came from,” she says.
I could tell you from experience that if you buy a head of cabbage from a grocery store or you cut it out of the garden at High Hill Farm, you’re going to taste a difference.”
Proteins are easier to access year-round for the farm-to-table concept, Willis says. “I can get cow, pork and chicken and all of that any time of year I want it,” she says, adding
Fennel and Candy Mix
CHILLUM GRILL & MORE
continued on pg. 14
CHILLUM GRILL & MORE
HIGH HILL FARM'S CÔTE
news-journal.com 13
that the cattle for beef at the restaurant “literally comes from 10 miles from our farm.” The seasonality of produce, however, means her restaurant’s menu is ever-changing. In January, squash and citrus were in season. “I change our menu every three months to follow with the seasons,” Willis says. In January, that meant asparagus, cucumbers and tomatoes were not on the menu – with some exceptions. “If I have tomatoes – we do a lot of canning ourselves, and the same thing with fruits. If I served peaches (out of season), it’s because I canned it from the summer and it came from our garden or another farmer’s garden.” In addition to purchasing from Red Moon Farm, Willis and others who work at High Hill Farm grow fruits and vegetables that are used at the restaurant and sometimes sold to the public. “We grow everything from herbs to fruit trees, to right now cabbage, Brussels sprouts and lettuces,” Willis says. Willis says the farm offers canning classes that have been popular, for instance, and features bungalows for overnight stays, a vineyard and special event dinners. Diners have been interested in hearing about the farm-to-table concept when they learn how High Hill operates.
Fresh Chai
CHILLUM GRILL & MORE
“I think it’s a new thing in East Texas, which is surprising, because there’s so many farmers, so much access to fresh product out there,” she says. The restaurant is about 70 to 75 percent farm
HIGH HILL FARM'S CÔTE
to table, with Willis noting East Texas farmers are limited in terms of how much produce they can provide. “There’s not a demand for it, so that’s what we’re trying to create,” she says. Khan estimated 80 to 85 percent of her restaurant’s fare is served farm-to-table. It’s a lifestyle that was already ingrained in her family’s Indian and Mediterranean-style cooking, and her customers are learning from her. “I learned it from my mother and grandmother
14 VIEW | M A R C H / A P R I L
Life is a process of sharing yourself in a lot of different ways, but sharing your garden is wonderful. Eating farm to table can be more expensive, she says, explaining she and her husband drive three hours a week to keep the restaurant stocked with fresh products. Also, local farmers don’t have the economies of scale that drive prices down in grocery stores. Still, there’s interest in the farm-to-table concept because of people’s growing interest in staying healthy.
– the benefits of spices and herbs,” she says,
“We are getting more and more into health,”
describing how customers will ask her what spice
Khan says. “There is a market now for people who
is helpful with tummy aches, for instance.
want to eat healthy.”
She suggests people make slow changes. Restaurants such as High Hill Farm’s Côte and Chillum Grill aren’t something Sid Greer of The Greer Farm in Daingerfield has found very much of in East Texas. The Greer Farm is a regular participant in the Historic Longview Farmers Market. “I don’t know of any restaurants that have reached out to any
Change is Good.
of the farmers at the farmers market, or us locally, for vegetables or even meat,” Greer says. “There just doesn’t seem to be much interest.” Individuals are different from restaurants, though. Greer Farm produces vegetables – but a variety not found in local grocery stores, grass-fed beef and lamb pastured pork, free-range eggs, pastured chicken, berries, jams and jellies, herbs, flowers and Texas Wildflower Honey. “We’ve got clientele year-round from the farmers market,” Greer says. “We deliver once a week to Longview.”
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Greer Farm works with Comeback Creek Farm in Pittsbug to make seasonal produce deliveries as well. “They have a number of restaurants in Dallas that buy yearround,” he said of Comeback Creek Farm. The people Greer Farm sells to are “dedicated” to trying to eat fresh. Like Willis at High Hill they plan their menu around what’s available. “I think if you’re looking for a balanced healthy lifestyle, you probably want the least amount of artificial ingredients in your body that you can,” Greer says, adding that purchasing from farmers who use sustainable or organic practices means “you’re getting the natural stuff without adding to it.” In Longview, Rudy Kiapeta at the Tuscan Pig Kitchen and Catering Co. says his restaurant has on occasion served farm-totable when the farmers market is in session and he can purchase fresh produce there. He and his wife, Miriam, first launched their business at the farmers market selling “their signature pesto,” with the help of a neighbor’s garden. Peggy Nader, a master gardener, has provided them herbs, such as rosemary, thyme and basil. For Nader, her yard gardening has been a way to live farm-totable as much as possible She started gardening because she likes organic food, and she grows a little bit of everything. Her gardening recommendations include compost piles of fruits and vegetable scraps from the kitchen to help improve soil quality, egg shells to deter bugs and chicken and rabbit manure fertilizer mixes. “It’s so much fun to share it with other people,” she says of her garden’s bounty. “Life is a process of sharing yourself in a lot of different ways, but sharing your garden is wonderful.”
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TRAVEL view
ONe-TANK TRiP:
aThenS Words by amy mchaney
Wofford House at the East Texas Arboretum
Some
of my very favorite childhood memories
milkshakes to rickey’s, egg creams and phosphates that are
are set in athens, where i attended
splashed with a “secret potion.” in addition to soda counter
church camp at Disciples crossing on the eastern edge of town. i
favorites, there is a wide variety of candies to satisfy your
remember rumbling through town in our church bus, gazing out
sweet tooth.
the window at the enormous trees and the grand homes on large plots of land.
athens is home to a budding wine industry. The oldest of the three local wineries is Tara Vineyard & Winery just 7 miles
i’m working on new memories of athens for my own children
northwest of downtown. The vineyard produces an impressive
these days. my twins are 7 years old and are very serious fishermen.
number of wines that can be sampled in the tasting room and
While seeking out the best east Texas fishing holes, we discovered
enjoyed on their scenic patio Wednesday through Sunday. Be
the fabulous Texas Freshwater Fisheries center. curious about
sure to make advance reservations for dinner at the on-site Cellar
what else athens had to offer, i took myself on a self-guided tour
Door Restaurant. if wine isn’t your thing, the proprietors of the
and found lots of wonderful surprises – athens is definitely worth
vineyard also brew beer at Athens Brewing Co. downtown. if
a visit!
the weather is nice, the outdoor alley is equipped with cushy
TO EAT
furniture and string lights overhead – a perfect spot to sip one of
if you arrive in time for breakfast, stop by The Cherry Laurel Bakery & Cake Shoppe for a pastry. The case is full of tempting
10 craft beers on tap.
TO DO
treats, including their famous butterum cake, for breakfast and
i was originally drawn back to athens because of the Texas
beyond. The cherry laurel serves a wide variety of soups, salads
Freshwater Fisheries Center, which is truly a first-class facility.
and sandwiches for lunch as well.
The welcome center is enormous with exhibits on par with
For lunch i popped in to the Railway Café just off the downtown
some of the best natural history museums in the country. Three
square. The décor is chic – it truly looks like a trendy Dallas eatery.
hundred thousand gallons of aquaria feature fish native to Texas in
The friendly staff guided me through the daily specials; i settled on
a natural setting. Tours of the state-of-the-art production hatchery
a salad, which included a scrumptiously seasoned grilled chicken
are conducted from the comfort of covered trams. The facility
breast. Simple, i know, but isn’t it amazing how often those chicken
includes an accessible wetlands trail and the Freshwater Fishing
breasts can be overcooked? mine was perfect; the salad was an act
hall of Fame. The best part, however, is the stocked fishing pond;
of justification for the best part of my meal – the dessert special,
the admission fee includes fishing poles, bait and instruction –
which consisted of a mug of vanilla bean ice cream topped with a
everyone in my family had a blast hauling in rainbow trout and
warm, house-made chocolate chip cookie. a woman at the table
channel catfish.
next to me requested i tell her the dessert was terrible so that she
The East Texas Arboretum is worthy of a visit as well. The lovely
would not be tempted to order dessert herself. i lied and told her
grounds include gardens as well as restored historic structures.
she would hate it … as i polished off every last morsel.
Wofford house is the oldest home in henderson county. erected
For an afternoon treat, the Soda Shoppe at Gibson Pharmacy
in 1851, it has been restored and fully furnished, and the grounds
serves up a fantastic selection of old favorites from malts and
surrounding the house include really cool culinary as well as
16 view | m a r c h / a p r i l
Pastry from Cherry Laurel Bakery & Cake Shoppe
Athens' downtown art district
medical gardens. The Sant Miller Barn also sits on the grounds of
TO STAY
the arboretum and features antique barn implements. The north side of downtown Athens is home to a budding artist community. The Charlie Bullock Art Studio & School and the 211 Gallery are within a few steps of one another. The latter features regional fine art and throws a party that is free and open to the public to celebrate new exhibit openings; check their website for a calendar of events.
The Cherry LaureL Bakery and Cake Shoppe 305 S. Prairieville St. • 903.677.5599 Mon-Fri 7a-5:30p • Sat 7a-3p • www.thecherrylaurel.com
raiLway CafÉ
Tara Vineyard & Winery offers overnight accommodations in the stately mansion at the front of the property. Black and white striped awnings adorn the windows of the inn, which is home to four luxe suites. Back in town, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites offers comfortable accommodations and includes breakfast.
TexaS freShwaTer fiSherieS CenTer
$5.50 Adults, $4.50 Ages 65+, $3.50 Ages 4-12 5550 FM 2495 Closed Mon • Tue-Sat 9a-4p • Sun 1p-4p 903.676.2277 • www.tpwd.texas.gov/spdest/visitorcenters/tffc
210 N. Palestine St. • 903.264.7245 Mon-Fri 11a-2p • www.railwaycafe.net
Soda Shoppe aT giBSon pharmaCy
600 S. Palestine St. • 903.675.7069 Mon-Fri 8a-6p • Sat 9a-2p • www.gibsonrx.com/soda-shoppe
Tara vineyard & winery
8603 CR 3914 • 903.675.7023 Cellar door restaurant Closed Mon-Tue • Wed-Thu 12p-8p • Fri-Sat 12p-9:30p • Sun 12p-6:15p www.tarawinery.com
aThenS Brewing Co.
101 E. Tyler St. • 903.952.7493 Thu 4:30p-10p • Fri 4:30p-11p • Sat 11:30a-11p • Sun 11:30a-5p www.athensbrewingco.com
Tara vineyard & winery inn
eaST TexaS arBoreTum
$4 Adults, $3 Students & Seniors, $1 Children 3+, Under 3 Free 1601 Patterson Road
Open daily from daylight to dusk 903.675.5630 • www.easttexasarboretum.org
CharLie BuLLoCk arT STudio & SChooL
120 E. Larkin St. • 903.780.2624 Call for hours • www.charliebullock.net
8603 CR 3914 • 903.675.7023 www.tarawinery.com
211 gaLLery
hoLiday inn expreSS & SuiTeS
Thu-Fri 11a-5p • Sat 9a-5p • Closed Sun-Wed www.artgallery211.net
1119 E. Tyler St. • 903.675.2500
211 N. Palestine St. • 903.292.1746
news-journal.com 17
non-profitview
making a difference Words by april BarBe
Shelly
Smith has a lot of responsibilities as
sure children are placed in a safe and permanent home as quickly
the executive director of east Texas
as possible, she said.
caSa, but she only has one goal – to give children in Gregg, rusk and Upshur counties a “positive future.”
Becoming a court appointed Special advocate is an easy process, Smith said.
“caSa’s goal is to create a positive future for abused and
“We have a simple application (accessed on our website) and
neglected children by recruiting and training highly qualified
interview process, followed by nationally required background
volunteers to ensure the safety, protection and permanent
checks and mandatory training. We are also now offering lunch and
placement of children,” Smith said. “We want to make a difference
learn sessions in every county for people in our communities to
in the lives of children by providing an independent voice in the
simply come and get more information about what we do, the time
court system.”
involved, and how they can make a difference,” she said.
caSa stands for court appointed Special advocates. Through the organization, volunteers are appointed by the court as the guardian ad litem for children once they are placed in foster care, and advocate for the best interest of the children in the court system. “caSa’s become a constant in a foster child’s life where many people are coming and going during a critical time in their lives,” Smith said. Smith began working with east Texas caSa in 2012 as a member of its Board of Directors. She became the executive director in November 2013. east Texas caSa served 362 children in Gregg, rusk and Upshur counties in 2016. Smith said another 92 children were removed from unsafe environments in 2016, but were not provided a court appointed Special advocate because of the shortage of volunteers. Volunteers are what make caSa operate, Smith said. The more people volunteer, the more children can be helped. Smith said a court appointed Special advocate provides a voice for abused and neglected children during court proceedings in order to protect a child’s best interests. The primary goal is to make 18 view | m a r c h / a p r i l
A CASA volunteer must:
• Be 21 years of age or older. • Successfully pass screening and background check requirements. • Successfully complete initial training provided by East Texas CASA. (30 hours of initial training plus three hours of courtroom observation and 12 hours of continuing education)
• Be able to make a 24-month minimum commitment to a case. (An average of 10-15 hours per month)
• Be able to keep information confidential and work within established program guidelines.
however, volunteers must prepare themselves for on many levels, according to Smith.
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA):
• Ensures the child is receiving physical and mental health care services; • Has access to school records and advocates for the child’s educational needs;
• Visits the child and placement to evaluate the level of care the child is receiving;
• Searches for and evaluates any potential temporary or permanent placements;
• Advocates to find a permanent solution for the child as quickly as possible; and
• Remains with the child until the case is closed and the child is no longer in the custody of the state.
Smith said volunteers often are faced with the reality that not
East Texas CASA, a nonprofit organization, has served abused
every child in a difficult situation will be required by law to leave
and neglected children in Gregg, Rusk and Upshur counties since
the home they are in. “It happens and we understand the law, but it can be hard at times,” Smith said. But Smith assures those choosing to serve that the job is
1992 by providing trained community volunteers for every child who was assigned to the program through the court, according to easttexascasa.org. There are more than 1,000 CASA programs nationwide and 73 CASA programs in Texas.
also rewarding. “Watching a child find their forever home and the excitement of everyone involved is amazing,” she said. And this spring there’s another way folks can support East Texas CASA. Its annual fundraiser Blue Jeans and Ball Gowns kicks off April 1. Smith said the event is the biggest fundraiser of the year for East Texas CASA, with half of the agency’s funding coming from local fundraising. This year’s event is at 6 p.m. April 1 at Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center. Tickets are $75 each. “Each year is new and different and the show is always great,” Smith said. “Amy Canton coordinates all of our dancers, and they have already started practicing.” For more information, visit bluejeansballgowns.com or for continual updates, search Blue Jeans & Balls Gowns on Facebook.
FROM CONCEPT TO DOORSTEP
Local celebrities dance the night away April 2, 2016 as part of an annual fundraiser for East Texas CASA. Photo by Angela Kay Duncan.
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TCM PRINTING
320 E Methvin | Longview, Texas | 903.232.7245 www.tcmprinting.com news-journal.com 19
eventview
women in longview day Words by Jo lee FerGUson | Photos by kevin Green
Diversity.
Unity. changed lives. stronger voices.
those are the themes – and the results – championed for decades
by an event that will return march 23 – Women in longview Day. “this is about women realizing their potential and being brave enough to do what they need to do, to be independent and have faith
held in the fall originally, the event moved to march in 1998 to coincide with Women’s history month. “We do try to celebrate and promote women’s history,” Jurenka says. “most people don’t even understand why you even need women’s history: it’s so young men and women can see that women have indeed done things of importance.”
in themselves,” says Jerry anne Jurenka, one of the women who has
each year has featured a keynote speaker, including: linda Gale
helped organize the event since its early years. “it’s for women to
White, the wife of former Gov. mark White; sarah Weddington,
have the confidence that they can do whatever they want to do and
the winning attorney in the roe vs. Wade case that decided women
just have the courage to go try.”
had a constitutional right to privacy to determine whether to
Women in longview Day launched in 1984. that’s when a group
continue a pregnancy; Xernona clayton, who, when she spoke in
of women, led by former mayor martha Whitehead (who later would
longview in 1997, was the highest-ranking female executive in
become, and then abolish the position of, state treasurer) and well-
turner Broadcasting; skip hollandsworth, executive editor of “texas
known community volunteers Jo lloyd and Dr. peggy coghlan, asked
monthly” who co-wrote the move “Bernie;” and many others.
the city council to form a commission for Women. then-mayor mitch henderson signed the ordinance creating
another highlight of the event each year is the presentation of scholarships to women returning to school and graduating seniors.
the group in august and the council appointed its first commission
Jurenka has found inspiration in the evaluations women have
members: Fain Williams, true mann, margaret parker, Betty lyn
written about the event each year. she was emotional recently
collier, Dianne Farrar, cissy Ward, Betty Jackson, Jan mcBride,
describing the comments from “some young women telling us how
lyndell Bright, sandi sachnowitz, Dianne Benton and ex-officio
(Women in longview Day) changed their lives.”
members Whitehead and coghlan. that commission created the first Women in longview Day and
“they didn’t know, nobody had ever told them, how to live your life, how to have balance in your life,” she says.
created the “Friends of the commission” to organize the event. the
the event’s goals are still relevant today, she says.
city council ended the commission in 1999, but Women in longview
“Women are getting louder and louder,” Jurenka says.
Day continued and became an official nonprofit organization in 2004. cissy Ward, one of the original organizers, recalls the event started as a way to promote women. many functions and organizations were geared toward men at the time, she recalls, but there were not many for women. “i think it was giving a voice to the women in longview,” Ward says, and the event has served its function all these years later. “i think it’s very definitely caused more attention to women’s issues …. We’ve made progress. We’re not there yet, but i definitely think it’s helped raise the awareness.” in its early days, the event skipped a year a couple of times, so this march 23 marks the 30th Women in longview Day. 20 view | m a r c h / a p r i l
if
you go
30th women in Longview Day 9:30am - 1pm, march 23
who: Keynote speaker Dr. Suzanne Schmidt, a former Longview resident who lives in New Mexico, helped organize Women in Longview Day in previous years. Suzanne is a professional counselor and marriage and family therapist, two-time nominee to the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame, and the recipient of many other professional awards. She is author of “The Lonely Wind,” – described as a “novel with strong mental health themes”; “Life Lessons from Earth Woman;” “To Every Good Place a Trail Leads (A Simple Guide to Emotional Health);” “Earth Woman Journal;” and “Give Yourself the Gift of Serenity Workbook.” where: Hilton Garden Inn, 905 E. Hawkins Parkway, with additional parking and shuttle service available at The Institute for Healthy Living and Home Depot’s back lot Cost: $25 at Barron’s, Texas Bank and Trust in downtown Longview and online at www.womeninlongview.org.
eventsview
calendar of events Longview
“March to Freedom” exhibit March 1-11
Gregg County Historical Museum, 214 N. Fredonia St.
gregghistorical.org
theatre Longview’s “Dearly Departed” 7:30 p.m. March 2-4, 2:30 p.m. March 4-5 Grace Crossing UMC, 1001 W. Hawkins Parkway
Artsview Children’s theatre’s “the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” 7 p.m. March 9-11, 2 p.m. March 11-12 ArtsView Children’s Theatre, 313 W. Tyler St.
www.artsviewchildrenstheatre.com Humorist Jeanne Robertson 7:30 p.m. March 10 Belcher Center, 2100 S. Mobberly Ave.
www.theatrelongview.com
www.belchercenter.com
Zonta Antique show and sale 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 3-4, 11 a.m to 4 p.m. March 5
Longview Jaycees trade Days 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 12
(903) 235-4144
(903) 753-4478
Mathpalooza 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. March 4
Changing the swing of things 1 to 4 p.m. March 11
Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, 100 Grand Blvd.
LongviewWOW, 112 E. Tyler St.
www.longviewwow.org
Mardi Gras Music Fest 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. March 4 Cajun Steamer Bar & Grill, 3084 N. Eastman Road
(903) 230-0070
Gregg County Master Gardeners spring Gardening seminar 8:30 a.m. to noon March 4
First United Methodist Church, 400 N. Fredonia St.
(903) 236-8429
57th annual student Invitational March 5-25
Longview Museum of Fine Arts, 215 E. Tyler St.
(903) 753-8103
salute to HealthCare Awards Luncheon 11:30 a.m. March 8 Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, 100 Grand Blvd. (903) 237-4023
Longview Exhibit Building, 1123 Jaycee Drive
Longview Community Center, 500 E. Whaley St.
(903) 215-6201
spring Geek Week March 13-17
Longview Public Library,
222 W. Cotton St. (903) 237-1350
Magician Brett Roberts 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. March 15 Longview Public Library, 222 W. Cotton St. (903) 237-1350 Mini-Camp explore 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. March 14
LongviewWOW, 112 E. Tyler St.
www.longviewwow.org
Longview Half Marathon 7:30 a.m. March 18
Lobo Stadium, Airline Road and Hawkins Parkway
www.halfmarathonlongview.com Women In Longview Day 11:30 a.m. March 23 Hilton Garden Inn, 905 E. Hawkins Parkway
Longview Friends of nRA Banquet 5:30 p.m. March 24
Dalton Days 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 1 Downtown Longview
Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, 100 Grand Blvd.
gregghistorical.org
Downtown Live 5 p.m. Fridays, March 24-May 10
Ag pavilion at Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, 100 Grand Blvd.
(903) 445-4301
Heritage Plaza, Green and Methvin streets
www.visitlongviewtexas.com
Paw-Paws easter Bonnet Dog Pageant 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 1
(903) 295-0904
Ruffles and Rust expo 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 1
Classic Arms Productions Gun & Knife show 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 25, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 26
(903) 819-5773
(985) 624-8577
east texas CAsA Blue Jean & Ball Gowns 6:30 p.m. April 1
northeast texas tabletop Convention 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. March 25
(903) 753-4841
Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, 100 Grand Blvd.
Mobberly Baptist Church, 625 E. Loop 281
netxtabletopcon@gmail.com trinity school of texas spring Gala 5:30 to 11 p.m. March 25
The Summit Club, 3700 Judson Road
trinityschooloftexas.com/gala From the top 7:30 p.m. March 25
Belcher Center, 2100 S. Mobberly Ave.
www.belchercenter.com
Longview Exhibit Building, 1123 Jaycee Drive
Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, 100 Grand Blvd.
east texas symphonic Band Concert 7:30 p.m. April 3 Belcher Center, 2100 S. Mobberly Ave.
www.belchercenter.com taste of Longview 6:30 to 9 p.m. April 4
Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, 100 Grand Blvd.
(903) 240-8862
Kelly Miller Circus 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. March 26
southern United Pygmy Goat Club show 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 1
(580) 326-8345
(409) 882-1766
Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, 100 Grand Blvd.
Longview Interfaith Hospitality network Gala 6 p.m. March 31 Lawn behind Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, 100 Grand Blvd.
(903) 234-8343
Ag pavilion at Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, 100 Grand Blvd.
Longview Jaycees trade Days 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 8, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 9
Longview Exhibit Building, 1123 Jaycee Drive
(903) 753-4478
www.womeninlongview.org continued on pg 22 news-journal.com 21
Chautauqua Festival 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 8
Kilgore
(903) 237-1350
Pirtle United Methodist Church, County Road 173
Longview Public Library, 222 W. Cotton St.
Oscar Quesada “Q the Cloud”/ Art Wells “Elegance in Stone” April 8 to June 24 Longview Museum of Fine Arts, 215 E. Tyler St.
(903) 753-8103
Confederate Heritage and History April 8-29
Gregg County Historical Museum, 214 N. Fredonia St.
gregghistorical.org
ArtWalk 5 to 8 p.m. April 13 Downtown Longview
www.artwalklongview.com Easter 5K Trail Run and Ruck Race 8 a.m. April 15
Lear Park, 100 H.G. Mosley Parkway eastertrailrunandruckrace.itsyourrace.com
Longview Symphony: Dreams, Passions and Visions 7:30 p.m. April 21 Belcher Center, 2100 S. Mobberly Ave.
www.belchercenter.com Longview PRCA Rodeo 6 p.m. April 21-22 Longview Rodeo Arena, 100 Grand Blvd.
www.longviewrodeo.com Harvest Festival Crawfish Boil 3 to 6 p.m. and 7 to 10 p.m. April 22
Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, 100 Grand Blvd.
The Official Texas Gumbo Cook-Off 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 4 (903) 984-9555
KilGogh Art stroll the evening of March 31; daylong festival April 1 Downtown Kilgore
Calie’s Acre, 10589 Texas 300
Louisiana Style Pig Roast (Couchon de Lait) 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 1
East Texas Poultry Trade Days 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 22
Pirtle United Methodist Church, County Road 173
(903) 984-9555
Fridays After 5 8 p.m. Fridays, starting April 6 Downtown Kilgore
visitkilgore.com
Denim & Diamonds 6 p.m. April 8
A.P. and Susie Merritt’s Ranch
www.jaeasttexas.org
Relay for Life of Kilgore 4 to 10 p.m. April 29
Kilgore City Park, East North Street
www.relayforlife.org/greggsouthtx
gladewater
Roar Like a Lion: A League of Lions Wrestling event 6 p.m. April 1 Union Grove High School gym, 11220 Union Grove Road
Downtown Gladewater
www.gusher-days.com Big Bass Tournament 4:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 22 Lake Gladewater
Relay for Life of Longview 4 to 10 p.m. April 29
Downtown Tatum
Mudbugs and Music 6 p.m. April 29
Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, 100 Grand Blvd.
(903) 753-0723
tatum
Tatum Pecan Pie Festival 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 29
nlsd.net/londonwildcats/updates.htm
Easter Egg Hunt at Calie’s Acre 11 a.m. April 8, 14 and 15, 2 p.m. April 14-15 www.caliesacre.com
Yamboree grounds, U.S. 271 North
(903) 746-1187
Relay for Life of Upshur County 6 p.m. April 28 Gilmer High School, 850 Buffalo St.
(903) 399-5136
diana
March Madness Mud Run March 25
Thomas Falls Outdoor Adventures and Event Center, 5543 U.S. 259 North
www.thomasfalls.com
Relay for Life of Rusk County 4 p.m. April 22 Downtown Henderson
Diamond Don RV Park, 1602 Texas 49 East
www.route49rally.com
History, Haunts and Legends April 1
Jefferson Transportation & Visitor Center, 305 E. Austin St.
www.jefferson-texas.com
Outlaw Nationals Antique Rod Show April 14-16 Downtown Jefferson
(903) 665-7121
5K Rabbit Run & Community Easter Egg Hunt 9:30 a.m. April 15; registration at 8 a.m. Lion’s Park, South Line Street
Downtown Jefferson
(903) 720-0393
marsHall
Taste of East Texas & Irish Festival 5:30 p.m. March 14
Marshall Convention Center, 2501 S. East End Blvd.
Jefferson Cruise Night 5 p.m. April 21 www.jefferson-texas.com Diamond Don’s 15th Annual AHRMA National Vintage Motocross April 20-23
Diamond Don RV Park, 1602 Texas 49 East
www.DiamondDon.com
(903) 935-4484
League of Lions Pro-Wrestling 7:30 p.m. March 18 D-Rocks Gym, 315 Pope St.
(903) 407-6544
Healthfest March 31-April 2
Marshall Convention Center and downtown Marshall
Harrison County Master Gardener Plant Sale 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 1
(903) 657-2161
Route 49 Rally and Festival March 17-18
Hallsville City Park, North Central Street
Day in the Park & Fun Run 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 8
Henderson
Rusk County Youth Expo Center, 3303 FM 13 West
www.jefferson-texas.com
(903) 665-7954
(903) 947-6403
Rusk County Youth Project Show March 1-4
Jefferson Cruise Night 5 p.m. March 17
Hallsville
healthfest.com
phedra.johnson@cancer.org
Tractor Supply parking lot, 105 N. East End Blvd.
www.mastergardenerplantsale. com Get Healthy Marshall 5K and 10K 8 a.m. April 2 Shake and Move Fitness, 315 E. Austin St.
healthfest.com
22 view | m a r c h / a p r i l
Jefferson Transportation and Visitors Center, 305 E. Austin St.
www.avalonfaire.com
Avalon Faire grounds, 1076 FM 1252 West
www.gusher-days.com
(903) 983-0127
Jefferson Gun & Knife Show 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 12
Downtown Jefferson
Ag pavilion at Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, 100 Grand Blvd.
Longview High School practice field, 201 E.Tomlinson Parkway
A Day of Remembrance: 80th anniversary of New London school explosion 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. March 18
Jefferson
gilmer
East Texas Gusher Days April 13-15
(832) 235-3771
new london
(903) 407-6544
Avalon Faire 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays weekly April 1-30
Adam Trent: The Futurist 7:30 p.m. April 22
Peace, Love, and Pygmies 6 p.m. April 28, 8:30 a.m. April 29
(903) 889-2671
D-Rocks Gym, 315 Pope St.
(903) 665-2672
(903) 407-6544
www.belchercenter.com
Rusk County Youth Expo Center, 3303 FM 13 West
League of Lions Pro-Wrestling 7:30 p.m. April 22
West Rusk High School, 10705 S. Main St.
www.kilgogh.com
(903) 236-8429
Belcher Center, 2100 S. Mobberly Ave.
Antique Tractor Show 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. April 21-22
Want your event listed in the Calendar of Events? Please send information to clane@news-journal.com with the subject line “View Calendar.” The deadline to submit May/June events is Apr. 3.
Picture
niki And dArren groce
This!
bourbon & bowties
longview | maude cobb convention and activity center | 2/4/2017 Photos by Jo PoPma
east texans had the opportunity to experience an interactive Kentucky bourbon trail and a texas bourbon trail complete with master distillers during the annual bourbon & bowties fundraiser. the annual event raises money to support Longview World of Wonders, a hands-on children’s museum.
wAlter And kAthy northcutt
Anne And Jim hugmAn
mAry greenwAldt, leslie PAull, kAtiA gutierrez
Jill And sAm smeAd
Andy, kelly And mAdison mAck
news-journal.com 23
PICTURE THIS
CATTLE BARRON’S
NEW YEAR’S EVE MASQUERADE BALL LONGVIEW | EAST TEXAS BUILDERS ASSOCIATION & EVENT CENTER | 12/31/2017 Photos by CHRIS LOZANO
Dozens of East Texans danced the night away on New Year’s Eve during Longview Cattle Barons’ New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball. At the event, the theme of this year’s Cattle Barons’ Ball was revealed. This
SHELLY RUSSELL, BOB HALLMARK
year’s event, set May 20, will have a theme of Wranglers & Rhinestones.
ALLIE WARD, AMBER VINCER, PAIGE BARNETT, MATTIE BELCHER
DUSTIN EBERHART, COLE TOMBERLAIN, RILEY MARSHALL, DAVIS SHERMAN
CHAD SWANK, DONNA BLALOCK, JOHN HABINC
24 VIEW | M A R C H / A P R I L
JORDAN FOUT, BEN RYNOLDS
FAST PAINTING BY TIM DECKER
CHELSEA CACE, SARAH RAFT, LYNDSEY STEELE
PICTURE THIS
GOLDEN GLOVES LONGVIEW | LONGVIEW EXHIBIT CENTER | 2/4/2017
LANDON HARDY, ISAIAH OLIVARES
Photos by LES HASSELL
Fighters from across East Texas participated Feb. 2-4 in the 77th annual East Texas Golden Gloves Tournament. The regional boxing matches served as stepping stones to state competition, which is set March 1-4 in Fort Worth.
DAROME HILTON, HUDSON GYLLS
ALEXNDER EGUILEZ, HESUS RAMIREZ
EFREN RINCON, TRISTIAN FRAZIER
news-journal.com 25