View Magazine March / April 2017

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

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marcH/aPriL 2017Â

COVER STORY

farm to

table

Flip-the-issue

ALSO INSIDE

remember why you started

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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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NPR’S From the Top 3.25.17 Sponsored by 89.9 Red River Radio

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Sponsored by Longview News-Journal

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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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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!

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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.

Local businesses rely on the printing and marketing services of TCM Printing to improve their image, manage their message and connect with their customers. With a commitment to quality and customer service, our number one goal is meeting and exceeding our clients’ expectations.

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