View Magazine - July/August 2018

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 JULY/AUGUST 2018

COVER STORY

IMPRESSIONS

city OF A

ALSO INSIDE

fit view

TAKE THE TRAIL TO HEALTH event view

LONGVIEW SYMPHONY MARKS 50 YEARS

FLIP-the-ISSUE

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JULY/AUGUST 2018

contents RE VIEW

7 9

TO DRINK: Longview Wine Festival TO EAT: Gaga’s Jamaican Jerk

FIT VIEW

10

Take the Trail to Health

HEALTH VIEW

11

Water is Making a Comeback

COVER VIEW

15

Impressions of a City

TRAVEL VIEW

16

15

One-Tank Trip: DAINGERFIELD STATE PARK

DOWNTOWN VIEW

18

Downtown Kilgore Rich in History

NON-PROFIT VIEW

20

Longview Child Development Center

EVENT VIEW

21

Longview Symphony Marks 50 Years

IN EVERY ISSUE 22 24 25

Calendar of Events To Eat, Drink & Do in East Texas Picture This!

10

18 ON THE COVER Art is everywhere. It’s celebrated in parks and in regular events around Longview. Galleries highlight local artists, and some businesses base their existence on teaching people how to make their own art.

4 VIEW | J U LY / AU G U S T

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Call now & have your favorite beer, wine, & Liqour delivered right to your doorstep* *DELIVERY OFFERED ONLY IN GREGG COUNTY 10AM - 8PM GRAPHIC STANDARDS Introduction This Graphic Standards section of these Operating Rules has been developed to facilitate the use of the Allpoint® Brand Mark on all System Cards, System Terminals, signs, marketing materials and other communications. ATM National, LLC. must approve in writing any deviation from these standards.

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Shop at Longview’s premier wine, liquor & beer store 2000 N. Eastman Rd., Longview, TX

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TBT Charm GoSeeDo Snorkler 2018.indd 1

5/14/18 4:38 PM

July 27-29, 2018 at East Texas Regional Airport, Longview, TX

Seven Bridges

David Nail

Friday night at 9:30

Saturday night at 9:30.

www.gtbr.net news-journal.com 5

Dear readers,

businesswomen. You’ll also see how we have fun while supporting

I love the layers of our community and the people in it, the little

our favorite local charities.

surprises around so many corners and in so many conversations.

You’ll see layers, and I hope you see how beautiful they are.

That’s what I was thinking as we worked on this edition of

We’ll need that reminder — of how beautiful life is here — as

Charm and View magazines. In Charm this month, we’re featuring

the heat of summer intensifies, as we hope for rain and linger in

women who find joy in perhaps the not-so-simple pasttime of

the air conditioning. We’ll need that reminder as we anticipate

fishing. In View, you’ll meet just a handful of the people who

the next layers of Texas life — a cooler fall and a mild winter.

make up a vibrant community of local artists.

Enjoy this edition of Charm and View magazine — maybe

In those two groups of people, you’ll meet moms and wives, fathers and sons, teachers, people who gave up one profession to pursue their passion, people who make the world a more

while also enjoying a tall ice cream cone or a glass of your favorite iced tea, because, you know, it’s hot.

beautiful place.

Happy summer!

P.S. Who would you like to

You’ll see layers.

This month you’ll also read about some of the opportunities to get outdoors for your exercise at area state parks. You’ll also learn about how you can broaden your horizons through music that will be presented this year by the Longview Symphony as

see featured in Charm and View magazines? Shoot me your ideas at jferguson@news-journal.com or call me at (903) 237-7724.

it celebrates its 50th anniversary. I hope you will enjoy reading about a nonprofit preschool that’s shepherding the future along in one corner of Longview. You’ll learn about local businesses and

WHERE TO SHOP

jferguson@news-journal.com

For Every Occasion LONGVIEWMALL.COM

6 VIEW | J U LY / AU G U S T

REVIEW

to

drink

Longview Wine Festival

Words by NISHIL D. PATEL | Photos by LES HASSELL

What began as an idea between Los Pinos Ranch Vineyard

The 10th vendor, Pazzo Vino, is a local distributor importing

owner Gerald Jones and myself more three years ago, Longview’s

wines from Italy. By the end of the festival Pazzo Vino had poured the

first annual wine festival was a massive success due, in major part,

most tastings of any of the vendors. (Pazzo Vino is part of the same

to the tireless efforts of the East Texas Alzheimer’s Alliance. The

company that has operated Pietro’s pizza in Longview for decades.)

collective collaboration resulted in more than 8,000 tastings being

After completing the sale of the wines at the “Wine Pull Tent,”

poured for more than 2,500 patrons between the 10 wine vendors

I was able to make it by several booths and taste some wines I

in attendance on April 28. The event raised more than $100,000 for the local Alliance.

As the owner-operator of Heritage Wine & Spirits in Longview, I am extremely proud the festival was as productive and well-

have never had, as well as some I had experienced early on in my lifelong wine tasting adventure. In no particular order, the five wines that I enjoyed most were:

attended as it was. It accomplished what I was hoping for: We raised a significant amount of money for a local Alzheimer’s support group and we brought awareness to locally produced wines.

Of the 10 wine vendors, nine are Texas-based businesses producing wines from grapes sourced or grown right here in the great state of Texas: • Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards • Enoch’s Stomp Vineyard & Winery • Kiepersol • Landon Winery

WHITE FOX VINEYARDS –

TEXAS BLUEBERRY $19.99, Heritage Wine & Spirits Each bottle of wine is made from 2 ½ pounds of 100 percent

• White Fox Vineyards

local blueberries and is not a flavored grape wine. The wine is not

• Silver Lake Cellars

too sweet nor heavy, and definitely not the blueberry wine you

• Red Road Vineyard & Winery

think you know. (Crowd favorite was the “Oaked” version of this

• Naca Valley Vineyard

particular wine.)

• Neal McCoy Wines

continued on pg. 8  news-journal.com 7

ENOCH’S STOMP VINEYARD & WINERY –

LOS PINOS RANCH VINEYARDS –

$40.69, Heritage Wine & Spirits

$20.99, Heritage Wine & Spirits

TEXICAN

DARK PORTEJAS One of the vineyard’s best wines and one of the best-selling

A rare blend of Sangiovese and Montepulciano grapes grown

port wines at Heritage Wine & Spirits — this was my favorite

in the Texas High Plains produces a complex dry red wine that

port of the festival. This rich, full-bodied, dark red port has won

leaves your taste buds wanting more. The wine is well balanced

several awards, and in my opinion, makes for a great dessert wine.

and easily one of my favorite wines produced by Los Pinos.

Given the success of the inaugural Wine Festival, planning for 2019 has already commenced, and it will be bigger and better than this year!

Starting in July, Heritage Wine & Spirits will begin to showcase and taste wines from one participating wine vendor from this year’s event each month leading up to the 2019

LANDON WINERY –

PINOT NOIR $21.99, Heritage Wine & Spirits

Festival. Follow our Facebook and Instagram pages for updates. (@HeritageWineAndSpirits) Nishil Patel is a Texas A&M graduate and businessman from Longview. His mission is to bring a fresh and modern approach to

My absolute favorite varietal is the Pinot Noir grape, which is a light to medium body wine. I had to check out Landon’s style of this varietal and, to say the least, it was very enjoyable.

developing and improving businesses and real estate in a way that will endure time. He takes pride in his most recent endeavor — opening the upscale beverage destination Heritage Wine & Spirits, which showcases his creativity, diligence, and perseverance.

SILVER LAKE CELLARS –

PEACH HARVEST $15.99, Heritage Wine & Spirits I’m typically not a huge sweet wine fan, but during the heat of the day this high plains Muscat Canelli infused with peaches went down “sweetly.”

8 VIEW | J U LY / AU G U S T

A crowd gathers around the Landon Winery booth during the Longview Wine Festival benefitting the East Texas Alzheimer’s Alliance.

REVIEW

to

eat

Gaga’s Jamaican Jerk

I’ve been curious about Gaga’s Jamaican Jerk restaurant since it opened in April, so I stopped in for a to-go lunch one day, intent on trying a kind of cuisine that is new to me.

Green Plantains, Fried Breadfruit, a vegetable patty and Coconut Rice and Beans (with Caribbean Red Beans).

The rice and beans were delicious, without being too sticky

The menu was simple, but still I was a little hesitant as I

or too dry. The Fried Green Plaintains had a neutral taste, but

surveyed offerings such as Fried Breadfruit, Fried Sweet and

the Fried Sweet Plantains were a gooey, sweet treat — I wish I’d

Fried Green Plantains and — the real question mark on the menu

had more.

for me — oxtail. Yes, oxtail, and it is exactly what it says.

Breadfruit is actually a fruit that grows on trees in the

Several people came into the restaurant specifically for the

Caribbean. The pictures I found show it has bright green skin —

oxtail during the 10 or 15 minutes I was there getting my to-go

they almost look like Christmas tree decorations. Just as its name

order. I’ll admit I wasn’t adventurous enough to give it a try, but I

implies, breadfruit has a bread-like texture, but another neutral

was quite happy with what I brought back to the office.

taste that’s almost like potatoes. The vegetable patties, which are

I’m not much of a meat-eater, but I grabbed an order of Jerk

actually like little fried vegetable pies, were comfort food plain

Wings — confident that I could get at least one of the guys back at

and simple. They also come in other varieties, including mild and

the office to sample it for me. I didn’t have to work too hard to get

spicy beef and chicken.

someone to take them off my hands — and that person was quite happy he volunteered.

He described the Jerk Wings as “very good” and “a perfect fusion of flavors.” He also noted the wings were a good size compared to wings at other restaurants that often are small.

Owen Glave opened the restaurant at 1402 W. Marshall Ave., where Gilmer Road dead-ends, in a former Bodacious Bar-B-Q site. He previously said he started the business based on response to serving his native Jamaican dishes at home and church. His wife, Helen Daniel Glave, is a physician. GaGa’s serves chicken and pork dishes that are slow-cooked outside in a jerk, similar to a barbecue, Glave has said. His menu includes a variety of jerk dishes — leg or breast quarters, wings and ribs.

Glave was manning the register the day I went in, with diners able to view the dishes cafeteria style while they’re ordering.

Glave was happy to explain the menu the day I stopped in. In addition to Jerk Wings, I ordered Fried Sweet Plantains, Fried

I indulged in what Glave told me is a popular drink in Jamaica — Ting Grapefruit soda. It’s not like the heavy, sweet sodas we Americans seem to like, but tangy and refreshing.

I’ve already heard people talking about Gaga’s for its coffee — it serves Blue Mountain Coffee, one of the things for which Jamaica is famous. I remembered too late that I had intended to purchase a cup.

That’s fine. It will be another reason to go back. I’ve already found some dishes I like, and there are still others I’d like to sample. I think this restaurant is something East Texans will appreciate. Its menu might have some ingredients we’re not accustomed to, but, in the end Gaga’s is serving up meat cooked outside on a barbecue, just like we like it, along with sides that are similar to some of our Southern favorites.

GAGA’S JAMAICAN JERK 1402 W Marshall Ave, Longview | (903) 653-0519 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday Closed Sunday

Takes Reservations No | Delivery No | Take-out Yes | Accepts Credit Cards Yes | Good for Groups Yes | Attire Casual | Ambience Casual Noise Level Average | Alcohol Has Applied for TABC Permit | Outdoor Seating No | Has TV Yes news-journal.com 9

FIT VIEW

take the trail to health Words by CLARE MCCARTHY

IMAGINE

a clear blue lake surrounded by

“Exposure to nature, hiking in the woods, just taking in the natural

skyscraping trees, their majestic

environment — it makes a person happy,” Killian says. He also says that

trunks standing tall and thick over rolling hills of green. Birds flutter past,

hiking either of the two trails at Daingerfield State Park is worth more

chirping as they find a new perch high above. The earth crunches under

than just the exercise.

your feet as you make your way through the woods...

“When you ascend to the top of this higher hill on the Mountain View

Now imagine that you could get your recommended daily exercise

Trail (the more challenging of the two trails), you get this beautiful view,”

just by walking through those woods (with added benefits like a boost in

Killian says. “It transcends the location. You really don’t realize you’re still

mood, reduced stress, and increased energy).

in East Texas once you get to the top of that trail.”

“It’s like being in a cathedral, with these huge, massive trees,” says Ellen Buchanan, chair of the Golden Triangle Chapter of the Sierra Club, which is in lower East Texas. “And you don’t hear anything from the outside except the wind in the trees, and the birds. You couldn’t ask for more.”

Buchanan, who was formerly the regional director for Texas Parks and Wildlife out of Tyler, hikes as much as she can in local state and national parks.

“Studies have shown that (exercising outside) boosts your immune system; it makes you healthier,” Buchanan says. “It lowers your blood pressure and reduces stress. So besides keeping you in good physical condition, I think it’s both a physical and a mental benefit to be able to be in the woods.”

According to a study published in May 2017 by researchers at the University of Innsbruck in Austria, long walks outside can be more beneficial for mental and physical health than walking on a treadmill in a gym. The study showed that exercising outdoors — despite being physically more strenuous — actually felt less strenuous to the participants than their time on the treadmill. The study suggests that people might be more inclined to continue walking if they’re out in nature than if they’re just on a treadmill in a gym.

“They tell us that we should all be exercising at least 30 minutes a day,”

Killian also does a lot of hiking through local state parks, and he has seen the benefits in terms of his overall health.

“It definitely improves your cardiovascular system,” Killian says.

Plus, many of the local state parks in the area have multi-purpose trails, meaning you can hike, run, or even ride a mountain bike through the piney woods of East Texas.

Shannon Petersen, assistant park superintendent of Tyler State Park, says due to the extreme elevation changes within the park, many of its trails are attractive to the mountain biking crowd.

“We host several mountain bike races and ultra-trail running events throughout the year due to the challenging nature of our trails and the beauty of hiking, biking (and) running through the 100-foot-tall pine forest,” Petersen says.

Petersen says mountain bikers and hikers enjoy the steep ups and downs of the terrain, since they can get an excellent cardiovascular workout going uphill and then give their muscles a break on the way down.

An AmeriCorps trail crew worked at Tyler State Park for a few weeks this summer to help build a more sustainable and longer hiking trail, Petersen says.

Like Buchanan and Killian, Petersen also believes exercising in nature has its benefits.

Buchanan says. “So, if you’re walking in the woods and you start on a trail and

“Being in nature has a calming effect on people,” Petersen says. “The

let’s say it’s Daingerfield State Park, then you have the opportunity to walk all

warmth of the sun on your back or the cool breeze on your face add a little

the way up around this beautiful lake. And I think when we stay closer to the

something extra that you won’t get running on a treadmill in a gym. …And

house — I know I do this — then maybe we won’t walk as long because we

when you are enjoying yourself, it doesn’t seem so much like something

think we have so much to do at home, so we cut our walks short.”

that you have to do, but that you want to do.”

Steve Killian, superintendent of Daingerfield State Park, agrees.

10 VIEW | J U LY / AU G U S T

See our full list of state park trails in East Texas online.

HEALTH VIEW

water is making a comeback Words by KRISTEN BARTON

FOR

decades, Americans have enjoyed soda with

Dehydration is one of the most common reasons patients

many of their meals. Coca-Cola has encouraged

check into the hospital, she said. Dehydration also can cause other

the country to “Taste the Feeling” for years, and it has been.

According to the New York Times, 79.7 percent of children and 61.5 percent of adults drank at least one sugary beverage a day in 2003.

But those numbers are changing.

In the same study, the Times reported those numbers dropped to 60.7 percent of children and 50 percent of adults in 2014.

So what are Americans switching to? Simply, water.

Perhaps it’s the celebrity endorsements — NBA Star Steph Curry is the face of Brita now. Or perhaps Americans are reading the nutrition facts labels and seeing the amount of sugar in sodas. Or maybe it’s another trend, like rainbow bagels and unicorn Frappuccino.

Whatever the reason, Dr. Sudha Yanamandra, internal medicine physician at Longview Regional Medical Center, said the change is positive.

Water is vital for the body to function, she said. Typically, it makes up three fourths of our body weight.

“If our body weight in water goes down 5 to 10 percent, we

complications, such as a urinary tract infection.

With more access to media and the Internet, Yanamandra said people are starting to realize the benefits of water.

“Everyone wants to be healthy now,” she said, “because of all the expensive health care and all the expenses for ER admission and doctor visits.”

For people who do not like a plain bottle of water, Yanamandra said there are ways to dress it up and make it tastier. Just adding some fruit or vegetables, such as cucumber, can go a long way. A little bit of salt and lemon can help add electrolytes to water, too.

“Especially in the summer, you need to replenish electrolytes,” she said. “What happens is people sweat a lot and they lose electrolytes, and if they just drink water they also need electrolytes like sodium and potassium.”

Some other benefits of drinking water include clear skin and more energy. But, there is still a limit to water.

“Some people drink gallons and gallons, and that’s not the right thing to do,” Yanamandra said. “You can take up to 2.5 liters per day, but I wouldn’t go above that because it can cause long-term problems.”

start to feel the beginning symptoms of dehydration,” Yanamandra

Incorporating water into a diet can help improve overall health.

said. “Like dizziness, fainting episodes, feeling very thirsty and

“I would recommend adding drinking water into a daily lifestyle,”

getting confused.”

she said. “Drink at least 11/2 to 2 liters a day.” news-journal.com 11

COVER VIEW

s n o i s s e r p im of a city EL CAVAZOS

SSELL & MICHA

Words by JO

HA | Photos by LES LEE FERGUSON

Longview artist Joe Mraz 14 VIEW | J U LY / AU G U S T

LEFT: Local artist Anup Bhandari helps R.J. Miller with a painting as he spends his morning teaching people about art as part of his Healing Art Project.

RIGHT: Local artist Bhandari sits for a portrait among the artwork produced by the Healing Art Project.

A

rt is everywhere. It’s celebrated in parks and in regular events around Longview. Galleries highlight local artists, and some businesses base their existence on teaching

people how to make their own art.

“I think that it’s inherent, when you talk about art — it is part of the fabric of the community,” said Tiffany Nolan Jehorek, executive director of the Longview Museum of Fine Arts. “It

Anup Bhandari Now a Kilgore resident, Bhandari originally is from Nepal.

That’s where he discovered his interest in art while in school.

He has associate’s degrees in art and culinary arts from Kilgore College and a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the University of Texas at Tyler. He is a full-time artist.

weaves its way (into the community) in ways you don’t notice all

On his work: “My primary medium is acrylic, and I concentrate

the time, subtle ways, but that you enjoy when you drive down

on producing contemporary and abstract art. I’ve an affinity for

Judson Road and see a sculpture on the side of the road of

grand art pieces. The string method is one of my recent pursuits

children playing. I hope we see more of that.”

which consists of creating several layers to compose the background

The museum is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, with

and subsequently superimposing the painting,” he said.

Jehorek explaining that the museum’s mission goes beyond art

Bhandari’s most recent project is painting portraits of people

exhibits. The museum also supports the city’s artist community by

at Newgate Mission — called the “Faces of Newgate.” (Newgate

hosting classes, demonstrations and meetings.

She said studies show cities with vibrant artist communities experience economic growth.

“It’s a more vibrant, interesting city,” Jehorek said.

Longview’s artist community consists of people working in

Mission serves homeless and other low-income people.)

“Within every subject of Newgate resides an often powerful, inspiring or surprising backstory,” Bhandari said. “I drew up portraits and showed them to the people of Newgate. Observing

a variety of mediums and styles, people who decided to pursue

their happy reactions to the portraits was very gratifying.

art full-time and those who have other jobs while pursuing their

Subsequently, other residents approached me to make their

passion outside of work. Here are just some of the people weaving

portraits. Once the project is finished, the portraits will be

their art into the community.

displayed publicly with their corresponding stories.”

continued on pg. 14  news-journal.com 13

LEFT: Local artist Mary Jean Davis works in her home studio. RIGHT: Longview artist Sharon Grimes in her studio.

Mary Jean Davis Now a Longview resident, Davis grew up in Shreveport. She’s a retired art teacher who is married to architect Brice J. Davis.

They have “one happily married son with a happy 1-year-old son.”

She discovered her interest in art as a child in school. Her greatgrandmother on her mother’s side, Carrie Atwood Montgomery, studied under Grant Wood at the Chicago Institute of Art and was A “Who’s Who” among American artists.

the good and wonderful people and things in my life and how can I create those gifts into my art,” she said.

Sharon Grimes Grimes and her husband, Merle, live in Longview. She was a hairdresser for 40 years before she retired and pursued art full-time.

She is a 2014 Hunting Art Prize finalist whose work has been featured in a number of group exhibitions and in public and

On her work: Davis is a pastel artist whose work has been

private collections. She lived in Europe for a year when she was

accepted at and recognized in a number of juried shows. She is a

21 and said she was exposed to a caliber of art that “awakened

signature artist at the Texas and Neighbors Show and the Pastel

something inside me” and “changed and shaped her world view.”

Society of the Southwest.

“I never looked at things the same way again,” she said.

“Recently, I have been caught up in memories, light, objects and people. Simple objects caught in the afternoon light bring

On her work: Grimes is an abstract artist who works in acrylic on a cradled wood panel.

great joy to me. My goal has been to recreate these snapshot

“I’m an experimental artist, so I’m always trying new things. I

memories through ‘comfort objects,’ much like comfort food, or

let my work evolve naturally without forcing anything, depending

things that make me feel secure and happy,” she said in an artist’s

heavily on intuition and the work itself to guide me,” she said.

statement for a show in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

She wanted to pursue art professionally for years.

She said that in retirement, she struggles to balance her many

“It took me a long time to build the confidence, not only in my

roles as wife, grandmother and caretaker for her mother, who has

work, but in leaving the thing that I knew how to do,” she said.

Alzheimer’s, while working full-time as an artist.

“I didn’t know what to expect, but I jumped in with both feet. I

“Even when I am not in my studio, I constantly seem to have a dialogue going in my head.... The dialogue is thanking God for all 14 VIEW | M A R C H / A P R I L

worked hard and avoided distractions. It has surpassed my wildest expectations. I love it.”

n o i t c a e r s u o e n a t on watercolor paper.” - Joe Mraz sponot f pigmen “I love the

LEFT: Local artist Jeff Hull stands next to his sculpture titled “Eclipse” after it was installed in the yard of a home in the Wildwood subdivision. RIGHT: Longview artist Joe Mraz.

Jeff Hull

Joe Mraz

Jeff and his wife, Bonnie, live in Longview and have three

A Longview resident, Mraz worked in advertising for many

grown children. He is an art teacher and the fine arts department

years and is semi-retired. He’s a freelance, professional artist who

chairman at Longview High School. He discovered his love of

also teaches watercolor workshops and adult education watercolor

art in a fourth grade trip to the Guggenheim Museum, where

classes at Kilgore College. He also coaches students in drawing

Alexander Calder and his mobiles were featured.

at Trinity School of Texas. Mraz said he’s been drawing and

On his work: Hull is primarily a sculptor in metal, wood and

painting since he was a child. He’s been instrumental in forming

found objects, and he works in pottery making “functional ware.”

several local artists groups that meet at the Longview Museum of

He also enjoys “art furniture.” Examples of his work can be seen

Fine Arts, and he created a Longview cable show that’s also on

along the Boorman Trail in Longview, where his “Vitals Signs”

YouTube, “Watercolor Behind the Brush.”

sculptures, which are made from recycled streets signs, can be found as well as “The Herd at Boorman,” bright orange bicycles positioned along the trail.

“I am so blessed (thank you God!) to be teaching what I love and do as a professional artist. It is very rewarding to pass that love on to my students,” he said. “In the classroom, that looks like elements of art and principles of design; different art processes and concepts; and bringing all that together so the students can put it their own voice. Personally, I can’t stop creating. I will never

On his work: Mraz works in watercolor, and his art has been featured in and honored in a number of art shows.

“I love the spontaneous reaction of pigment on watercolor paper, wet in wet, wet on dry as well as the different effects of lost edges and dry brush strokes,” he said.

The “unpredictability” of water color painting has always fascinated him, Mraz has said in a statement about his work.

It’s hard for artists to select a favorite among their own work, and Mraz is no exception.

run out of ideas because I am always seeing new things, which

“On our journey as artists, we are forever searching for our

generate new ideas for my next art piece. The balance is definitely

voice, so to speak, in expressing our personal style of painting,”

tilted towards teaching, as it should be, since that is my full time

he said. “It comes slowly, but when a painting speaks to us that

job. Lots of my personal art is put together on breaks and the

expresses our passion in that painting, it becomes for the moment

summer months.”

our favorite until another emerges.” news-journal.com 15

TRAVEL VIEW

ONE-TANK TRIP:

DAINGERFIELD STATE PARK Words by JIM HARDIN & JO LEE FERGUSON

THE

clear waters of a spring-fed lake. Towering pine trees. History that was created as America

labored under the strain of the Great Depression.

The spring-fed Little Pine Lake is at the park’s center. Boats of any size are allowed on the lake, but wakes are prohibited.

“It’s a very clear lake, which makes it unique in all of northeast

That’s Daingerfield State Park, a gem more and more people

Texas,” Killian said. “We have good fishing, but really we’re known

are discovering tucked away in the Pineywoods of East Texas, less

for swimming and boating, just because of the clarity and the

than an hour north of Longview. More than 75,000 people visit

overall quality of the lake.”

the park each year, a number that dwarfs the population of the nearby city for which the park is named. Daingerfield has about 2,500 residents.

The park offers everything from camping, picnicking, boating and fishing to swimming, hiking and nature study.

The park rents paddle boats, Jon boats, canoes, kayaks and paddle boards.

“The attraction (of paddle boards) is once you get your balance, you can easily maneuver in the lake. It’s kind of like a modified surfboard,” Killian said. “It’s like you’re walking on water. You’re

Park Superintendent Steve Killian calls the recreational

gliding across the surface. It’s a lot of fun. We actually teach

opportunities – all for a park entrance fee of $4 per adult – “a high

classes on most Saturdays during the summer on paddle boarding

quality, inexpensive, fun, family experience.”

or kayaking.”

Killian said the park is one of the oldest in the state, a project

The classes are free once park admission is paid, Killian said.

the Civilian Conservation Corps started in 1935 and completed in

Summer is the busiest time of the year at the park, he said,

1939. The Corps was part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New

followed by spring, fall and winter.

Deal work program, which put unemployed men to work on such

The park also has reignited a tradition from its early days —

park and land conservation projects. Some of the original structures

Saturday night dances in the pavilion, which began in the 1930s

built by the Corps are still in use at the lake — the swimming

and extended into the late 1960s and ’70s. Killian said the park

platform, boathouse, nature center, roads, culvert infrastructure

brought the dances back with a jukebox in the pavilion.

and the original sign — a stone structure that once sat at the park’s entrance but has since been moved to the park’s interior.

The park conserves a portion of the Pineywoods eco-region, with 125-foot-tall pine trees creating what Killian has given a poetic name to — the cathedral of the trees.

“You immerse yourself in this old growth forest, with majestic tall pines and hardwood scattered,” throughout, Killian said. “It’s awe inspiring when you’re hiking in the trails and viewing the trees of the lake.”

16 VIEW | J U LY / AU G U S T

“It socially connects the community together,” Killian said. “We’re bringing it back. There’s many families that can be traced back to a chance meeting at the dances back in the ’30s, ’40s and ’50s.”

Killian said he’s managed a number of parks, and the volunteers and employees at Daingerfield State Park are one of the aspects that make it unique. They’re committed to providing visitors with a quality, memorable experience.

“I think that’s starting to show because our visitors are up over 30 percent,” Killian said. “It’s a big jump, but what we’ve

done is we’ve started marketing the park, getting the word out in terms of press releases, making the park relevant in the lives of our community.”

The park features 58 campsites for tents and recreational vehicles, three cabins and one lodge for larger groups. Campsites with water are $10 per night, and campsites with water, electricity and sewer are $20-$25. Rental costs for cabins range from $85 to $95 per night.

The lodge, for larger groups of 15-plus, rents for $225.

NEARBY Visitors to the county seat of Morris County are invited to veer off the beaten path that takes them to Daingerfield State Park.

Just before travelers turn off U.S. 259 in Daingerfield onto Texas 49, they’re encouraged to take a brief side trip to downtown Daingerfield — historic downtown Daingerfield.

City Manager Rocky Thomasson and some store owners

Denver Chambless participates in the fishing competition during Freedom Fest at Daingerfield State Park.

century old building make it the perfect location for your next occasion.” There are accommodations for up to 120 guests.

Possibly the biggest downtown surprise is the Morris Theater.

It features first-run movies, two screens and an admission price of only $1.50 per seat.

themselves admit that there are too many vacant buildings

Movie-goers have posted positive reviews on Facebook: “We

downtown. They agree, however, that many travelers who take

love the theater. It is vintage, but well kept. Just a heads up, cash

them up on the side-trip offer will be surprised at what they will

only. Prices are low, making it an affordable option for all size

see in this small town less than 40 miles north of Longview.

families.” Another family – possibly a family of two – reported

WHAT TO SEE Daingerfield’s pride shows off first with a big blue and white “Welcome to our Hometown” sign that greets everyone entering the city on U.S. 259. Blue and white are Daingerfield school colors.

that they can go see new releases, get popcorn and drinks, all for less than $10.

WHERE TO SHOP Something Special by Nan and Jan has been serving Daingerfield since 1971. Jan is Janice Bryan. Nan was Nancy

At the top of the sign is the mention that Daingerfield was

Johnston, her mother. The store is “something special” because

established in 1841. At the bottom is a list of the years that the

it’s part of a family tradition. Bryan’s parents and grandparents

Daingerfield Tigers have been state football champs – 1968, 2008,

were downtown Daingerfield merchants.

2009, 2010 in Class AA and 1983 and 1985 in Class AAA. It’s not located downtown, but residents are likely to point out that the football stadium is one of the most popular structures in town. The place to see and be on Friday nights during football season is Mickey Mayne Tiger Stadium. The home of the Tigers is named for longtime coach and educator, Lewis “Mickey” Mayne.

A prominent downtown landmark is the old Morris County Courthouse that was built in 1882. It has been renovated and serves as offices for the Nix Patterson & Roach Law Firm.

The Victorian-style home at 400 Webb St. was built in 1899

Bryan said her store is a specialty boutique, carrying clothes, shoes and accessories for women. Because Daingerfield is a small town, she tries to fill other community needs by providing a gourmet section, a baby and bridal registry, and selling home décor and some men’s clothing.

Two doors down from her store at 111 Coffey St. is an antique store that’s run by her husband. She said they just call it, “The Antique Store.”

Enough Boutique is also on Coffey Street.

WHERE TO EAT

by the R.N. Traylor family. Robert Nail, his son, Roy A. Nail,

There are a few eateries in Daingerfield for visitors who aren’t

and George Haggard bought the house with plans to establish

eating at their campsites or picnicking at City Park in downtown.

a funeral home. In 1949, they officially founded Nail-Haggard

Fast-food fare includes Sonic Drive-In, McDonald’s and

Funeral Home.

Subway. There’s also China Café and restaurants with a local

The Postmark is an event center at 114 Webb St. and is open

flavor – Hawkins Family Restaurant (formerly Dairy Queen),

for wedding receptions or special events. According to an online

Fran’s Barbeque & Pizza and Outlaw’s Bar-B-Q (“so good it aught

description, “the unique architecture and notable features of this

to be against the law”). news-journal.com 17

DOWNTOWNVIEW

downtown kilgore rich in history Words by JIM HARDIN | Photos by LES HASSELL

SOME

East Texas phrases are foreign to Sonya

rebuilt and reopened in 1944. The exterior of the building had

Trout, but she clearly understands when

been restored to its original look.

people comment that she had to “hit the ground running” when she

Plans call for the building to be used as a multi-purpose venue

became special events coordinator for the city of Kilgore in January.

for meetings, proms and related events, although the city has used it

She grew up in Australia and moved to Kilgore in November.

for some events already, including the most recent KilGogh event.

Two months later, she began serving in a position that calls for

The restoration project is far from complete, Trout said. Phase

her to take the lead in directing some major Kilgore projects

2 work is under way and includes rebuilding the lobby area and

– including renovation of the Texan Theater and putting the

restrooms, reinstating the original doors and replacing the heating

finishing touches to the city’s application for a cultural district

and air conditioning system.

designation from the Texas Commission on the Arts.

Even though the renovation project has not been completed,

Trout finds herself in a position of learning while leading.

Trout said, “That hasn’t deterred people from having events there

A big part of her education is coming from stories that Kilgore

and booking future events in there either.”

residents tell.

On May 24, a double feature screening was held at the theater

“They are always wanting to share Kilgore with other people,”

to celebrate National Preservation Month. The event also was

she said. “People from Kilgore are very proud of the history that

an opportunity to raise funds for renovation of the theater and

we have here, and they want to let people know about it as much

another downtown historic building, the old post office.

as possible.”

Trout said they are happy to educate her – “a complete outsider” – on Kilgore’s history.

A major part of her job involves serving as the key contact person for the city’s Main Street program.

Trout said she learned right away that a lot of her efforts will focus on historical preservation.

Debbie VanDoren said Kilgore is an “exciting place for downtown businesses, especially with all the work they’re doing to try to restore the Texan and looking ahead to more projects.”

Downtown D’Lites, which VanDoren has owned for 6 ½ years, was recognized by the Kilgore Chamber of Commerce as the 2017 Small Business of the Year. This year, VanDoren was presented the Rising Star Award for women in business.

“Kilgore is rich with history and the feedback we get from

She said the Texan “just adds even more reasons for people

the community is to preserve that history,” she said. “In all of the

to come to Kilgore, even more to do and adds even more to the

ongoing work we do on these particular (downtown) buildings, we

quality of downtown Kilgore.”

are to try and hold onto as much history while still making it up to

There’s no place like downtown Kilgore for her business.

the current code that we need in Texas today.”

“Every now and then, we look at locations where we could

Renovation of the Texan Theater is a major downtown project.

The theater was built in 1931, destroyed by fire in 1942, then 18 VIEW | J U LY / AU G U S T

possibly buy instead of renting, but I really have never seen a location I like as much as where we are,” she said.

“When I drive downtown to our restaurant, it’s the same kind of feeling when I’m driving to our neighborhood at home. It just feels like family down here, with a lot of really good people, good small-town atmosphere.”

The city’s application for the cultural district was submitted on June 15. Trout said city officials should learn in September or October whether Kilgore will receive the designation.

“Cultural districts are special zones that harness the power of cultural resources to stimulate economic development and community revitalization,” according to the Texas Commission on the Arts. “These districts can become focal points for generating business, attracting tourists, stimulating cultural development and fostering civic pride.”

Trout said Kilgore has an abundance of cultural events and facilities that are associated with cultural arts activities – including the Texas Shakespeare Festival, East Texas Pipe Organ Festival, Kilgore College Rangerettes, East Texas Oil Museum, Texas Museum of Broadcasting and Communications, Reel East Texas Film Festival and KilGogh Arts Festival.

Debbie VanDoren at Downtown D’ Lites

if

you go WHAT: FOURTH OF JULY EXTRAVAGANZA

When: 6-10 p.m. July 4 Where: Kilgore City Park A 20-minute fireworks display over historic downtown Kilgore will be a highlight of the extravaganza.

WHAT: PATRIOTIC STREET PARTY When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. July 21 Where: Downtown Kilgore Activities will include a cooking competition, water slides, fire department pumper races, dunking booth, kids bike parade, live music, entertainment and activities for kids, lemonade stand and food vendors.

Businesses In and Near Downtown Kilgore: RETAIL

T’s Cycle Shop 220 E. North St. Kilgore Carpets & Interiors 218 E. South St.

David Reeves Flowers by Design 213 E. Main St.

Show Room Billiard Hall 211 E. North St.

SERVICES

Kilgore Print Center 116 S. Rusk St.

Salon Two18 218 N. Kilgore St.

Dixon Jewelers Suite 7, 405 N. Kilgore St.

Citizens National Bank 410 N. Kilgore

Drillers Pawn & Jewelry 200 E. Main St.

Security Finance Suite 2, 405 N. Kilgore St.

Tanline Boutique 218 N. Kilgore St.

East Texas Professional Credit Union 304 N. Kilgore St

J & Co 120 N. Kilgore St. Eclectic Culture 100 N. Kilgore St. Everything that Blings 104 N. Kilgore St. Pat Anderson Furniture 106 E. Main St. The Shops on Main 213 E. Main St. De Rigueur 310 E. Main St. Vintage Angels Corner 200 S. Martin St. Main Street Flowers & More 212 E. Main St.

Don Graham’s Karate Dojo 204 N. Commerce St. Paws R Us Pet Salon 213 N. Kilgore St. Raw Iron Gym 403 N. Kilgore St. Blonde Salon & More 416 N. Commerce St.

BTH Bank 201 N. Kilgore St.

Hair Fair Designers Suite 1, 405 N. Kilgore St.

World Finance 218 E. Main St.

Modern Barber Shop 117 N. Kilgore St.

Gold Star Finance 211 E. Main St.

Mustang Cats Full Service Salon 101 N. Kilgore St.

Citizens Bank 301 E. Main St.

Salon De Belleza 116 N. Rusk St.

Lone Star Lock & Access Control 200 N. Kilgore St.

Buck’s Barbering and Hair Styling 107 S. Rusk St.

The Coin Investor of Kilgore 121 N. Kilgore St.

Farmers Insurance 211 N. Kilgore St.

My Brewing Solutions 302 E. Main St.

The House of Glam 100 S. Rusk St.

ETB Pin up Experience 209 E. Main St.

Mirror Mirror 325 N. Kilgore St.

RESTAURANTS

Char-Burger Stockade 206 N. Kilgore St. The Catch 107 N. Kilgore St. Downtown D’Lites 103 N. Kilgore St. Val’s Italian Pizza 210 E. Main St. Edgar’s Big Taco 216 E. Main St. Las Tejanitas 314 E. North St. Jack Ryan’s Steak and Chophouse 119 N. Longview St. The Burrito Shop 601 N. Kilgore St.

ARTS & MUSEUMS Tap n Toe Dance Studio 118 E. North St.

Texas Museum of Broadcasting & Communications 416 E. Main St. East Texas Oil Museum 1201 S. Henderson Blvd.

Rangerette Showcase and Museum 1100 Broadway Blvd.

news-journal.com 19

NON-PROFIT VIEW

longview child development center Words by ANA P. WALKER | PHOTOS BY MICHAEL CAVAZOS

GOOD

child care is good for business. When parents have

of 30 hours per week, be enrolled in or attending a job training program,

a safe, nurturing place to leave their children, they

or be a full-time student carrying a minimum of 12 hours in coursework.

can concentrate on their work, says Sharon Kale, president of the board for Longview Child Development Center that serves low income families.

Most of the Center’s families fall in the low to very low income bracket, making a combined income of $24,000 yearly, Hawkins said.

“It’s a community service,” she said. “Employers depend on parents

“It’s child care but it’s preschool,” Kale said. That means all ages are

who can’t be worrying about their kids at work. Longview Child

engaged in learning. Once kindergarten children enter public school, the

Development Center is not only caring for and educating children, but

center’s teachers work with them, reinforcing what they have learned in school

keeping families in the work force.”

and helping with homework and other supplemental activities, Hawkins said.

Not only that, it is “a very real approach to breaking the cycle of poverty.”

“We’re family. We are their home away from home,” Hawkins said.

A family trying to work its way out of poverty can find it impossible when

Besides funding from United Way, the Center receives funds from

average daycare costs start at well more than $100 per week per child.

the city of Longview along with donations of money and time from

Longview Child Development offers an alternative.

groups and individuals. Leaders are considering an annual event both to

Kale rejects societal stereotypes of uncaring, low-income adults with little desire to improve their lot because she sees herself.

raise money and the center’s profile in the community.

In April, Leadership Longview donated upgrades to the facility’s

“It’s heartwarming to watch the parents pick up the kids, especially the

exterior that include parking lot striping and new fencing. Most notable

dads.” It’s a mistake to think of poor fathers as absent or distant from their

are the bright colors that now dress up the main entrance. The project

children, she said. “They really do participate” in their families’ lives, she said.

replaced a drab entryway with vivid paint complemented by planters

Longview Child Development Center is edging toward the 40-year mark of caring for children ages 6 weeks through kindergarten. Infant care is $80 per week and care for older children is less.

Kale fears that much of the city is unaware of the good that is happening at the southern Longview campus.

bearing brightly colored flowers.

“Now it looks like a child care facility. They really brought a lot of life to it,” Hawkins said at the project’s completion. Kale wants people to drive by and see the new entrance and perhaps come visit. She wants Longview to get to know the Longview Child Development Center.

“In the nonprofit world, you’re engaged in an ongoing effort to make

Even as the center’s many needs prove a constant challenge,

ends meet,” said Kale, who, after a long teaching career at Pine Tree

Hawkins revels in her role, emphasizing that an early foundation is

schools, led Longview Community Ministries until 2010.

crucial to future learning.

About two years ago, the Center was about to name a new director but Kale knew the finalist was not the right fit. She headed to the meeting

“It’s a pure joy to be a positive influence and help shape learning,” she said.

where the board was set to hire the person but continued to pray for a better answer. That is when she received the application from LaToyia Hawkins, who was not from Longview but whose family had deep roots in the Pine Tree community. Kale knew them and she knew the right person had come along.

Longview Child Development Center serves some 95 children ages 6 weeks through 5 years. Although the center uses HUD income guidelines for low to moderate income families to determine eligibility, parents must also meet at least one of the following requirements: Work a minimum 20 VIEW | J U LY / AU G U S T

longview child development center Executive Director: LaToyia Hawkins Board president: Sharon Kale Location: 1230 S. High St., Longview Years in existence: About 40 years No. Employees: 20 Children served annually: approximately 95 Service area: Gregg County A United Way Agency

EVENT VIEW

longview symphony marks 50 years Words by ANNTOINETTE MOORE | Photos by MICHAEL CAVAZOS

FROM

the music of Journey to the songs of action movies such as “Star Wars and “Indiana

Jones,” the Longview Symphony will hit a high note for its 50th anniversary season.

“The 2018-2019 season offers something for ages from 4 to 104,” said Executive Director Erin Tooley.

The upcoming season starts Oct. 6 with a concert that former

That’s the date of the symphony’s first concert 50 years ago, on Feb. 8, 1969. The organization will celebrate its birthday that night.

“The concert is called ‘Some Enchanted Evening,’” and will feature some of the pieces performed 50 years ago, Moon said.

On May 4, the symphony will celebrate the heroes and heroines of cinema, with music from “Star Wars,” “Indiana Jones,” “The Incredibles,” and other movies, Tooley said.

symphony conductor and music director Gene Moon had described

This “blowout concert” will feature Nathan Nabb as guest

as an “out-of-the-box” opening. Moon helped plan the anniversary

saxophonist performing John Williams’ “Escapades,” the theme

season before accepting a job in California. A couple of different

song from “Catch Me If You Can,” the 2002 movie starring

conductors are expected to lead the symphony in the coming season.

Leonardo DiCaprio, Moon said.

“The Oct. 6 concert is going to be a rock ’n’ roll concert. We’re going to have a cover band playing the songs of Journey,” with the orchestra, Moon said.

“We want to show how orchestras can bridge the gap from classical music … to music that’s considered pop or rock,” Moon said.

Rock band Journey formed in San Francisco in 1973. The band

“The next season is going to be extremely fun and extremely memorable,” Moon said.

Tooley said a 50th anniversary gala and fundraiser also is being planned for the fall.

“We are looking forward to a great 50th year celebrating both our history and the exciting future we have,” she said.

has earned 19 Top 40 singles and 25 Gold and Platinum albums. Hit

Season tickets go on sale on Aug. 1, with an option to buy the

songs have included “Don’t Stop Believin’ ” and “Open Arms,” both

Music of Journey tickets at a discounted rate. Single tickets go on sale

from 1981’s album “Escape.” Journey was inducted into the Rock

Aug. 15.

and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.

The rest of the season will feature more traditional classical music, though each of the remaining three concerts is associated with a holiday or specific date.

On Dec. 15, the second concert consists of popular Christmas music – think “White Christmas” – and classical music associated with the holiday, like Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker Suite.”

The second concert highlights guest soloist and pianist

if

you go LONGVIEW SYMPHONY’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON

When: Oct. 6, concert with Journey tribute band; Dec. 15, Christmas music concert featuring guest pianist Becky Priest; Feb. 8, 50th anniversary concert; May 4, concert celebrating heroes and heroines of cinema with guest saxophonist Nathan Nabb.

Where: LeTourneau University’s Belcher Center, 2100 S. Mobberly Ave.

Becky Priest, an American country music singer-songwriter and

Tickets: Season tickets go on sale Aug. 1, with an option to buy Music of Journey tickets at a discounted rate. Single tickets go on sale Aug. 15.

instrumentalist from Hubbard. She is keyboardist and background

Season tickets are for the December, February and May concerts and range in price from $60 to $110, with season tickets available for $15 for children and $30 for students.

vocalist for country music star and Longview resident Neal McCoy. “The third concert is on a very special date: Feb. 8, 2019,” Moon said.

Tickets to the Music of Journey concert are available individually or as an add-on to season tickets. With season tickets, prices range from $25 to $60; Without season tickets, or if season tickets are purchased after Aug. 15, prices range from $40 to $100.

Information: www.longviewsymphony.org

news-journal.com 21

EVENTSVIEW

calendar of events Freedom Fest June 30

Daingerfield State Park

JD Miller and Lea Fisher: Reflectionist Couple July 10 to Sept. 22

Great Texas Balloon Race July 27 to July 29

East Texas Regional Airport

(903) 645-2921, Daingerfield State Park on Facebook

Longview Museum of Fine Arts

www.greattexasballoonrace.com

Fireworks and Freedom Celebration July 4

ArtWalk July 12

Annual Asbury House Garage Sale Aug. 3 and 4

Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, Longview

(903) 237-1230 or https://tinyurl.com/y8bsshym Kilgore Fourth of July Extravaganza July 4 Kilgore City Park

www.facebook.com/visitkilgore Jefferson Salutes America July 4 Otstott Park and Big Cypress Bayou, Jefferson

https://tinyurl.com/yacm9n25 Greatest War Letters Ever Written July 5

www.lmfa.org

Downtown Longview

www.artwalklongview.com Tim Hawkins Live in Longview July 14 Woodland Hills Baptist Church

timhawkins.brushfire.com/events Second Saturday July 14

Downtown Marshall

https://tinyurl.com/yculzcpt Buddy Power Promotions Presents “Steel Magnolias” July 20 to 22, 27 and 28 Cumberland Presbyterian Church, Marshall

First United Methodist Church, Longview

https://tinyurl.com/yc2lfz4b

Showtime with Sommore July 7

ArtsView Children’s Theatre

preservationlongview.com/events/ greatest-war-letters-ever-written

Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Complex, Longview

www.outhousetickets.com, www.starztx.com

22 VIEW | J U LY / AU G U S T

Madagascar — A Musical Adventure Jr. July 26 to July 29 www.artsviewchildrenstheatre.com

First United Methodist Church, Longview

www.asburyhouse.net/annualasbury-garage-sale Fridays After 5 Presents Teazur Aug. 3

Kilgore City Park

www.kilgoremainstreet.com Delta Waterfowl Banquet Aug. 4

Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center

www.deltawaterfowl.org Bags and Bling Bingo Aug. 7

Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center

longviewhabitat.org

Ink Life Tattoo and Music Festival Aug. 10 to Aug. 12

Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center

www.inklifetour.com

Jefferson’s Seventh Annual Civil War Symposium Aug. 11

Jefferson Visitor Center

www.jeffersonmuseum.com Shake Your Family Tree Beginning Genealogy Workshop Aug. 25

Starr Family Home State Historical Site

https://tinyurl.com/ybztktjl

Historic Longview Farmers Market Saturdays through fall 105 W. Cotton St., Longview

Facebook, historiclongviewfarmersmarket.com Want your event listed in the Calendar of Events?

Please send information to jferguson@news-journal.com with the subject line “View Calendar.”

The deadline to submit September/October events is July 31.

Car Show at Fireworks & Freedom 2017

news-journal.com 23

LOCALVIEW

to

eat, drink & do in east texas

to eat

services

CAFÉ BARRON'S Elegant yet casual, Café Barron’s serves lunch, brunch and dinner, with daily specials throughout the week. Indulge in your favorite wine, beer or cocktail from the bar.

405 W Loop 281 Suite F, Longview (903) 663-4737, www.shopbarrons.com

CASA FLORA FLOWER SHOP Stop and smell the roses … and order some too! Beautiful flowers for all occasions are available for delivery to the East Texas area.

314 Magnolia Ln., Longview, (800) 245-4614, www.casafloraflowers.com

to shop

BARRON'S Barron’s is your one-stop shop for gifts, clothes, jewelry, accessories, home décor, books and more. Shop Barron’s for all of your holiday and special occasion needs.

405 W Loop 281 Suite F, Longview (903) 663-4737, www.shopbarrons.com DARLA'S GIFT SHOP Stop in at the only gift shop in Gladewater open five days a week! Shop women's fashion, accessories, specialty food items, locally made candles and much more.

100 S. Main St., Gladewater (903) 845-9999 www.facebook.com/DarlasGiftShopGladewater HERITAGE WINE & SPIRITS Heritage is a modern Wine and Spirits retailer, designed to elevate your “beverage” shopping experience. Wines, Spirits, Craft Beers and a friendly, knowledgeable staff!

2000 N. Eastman Rd., Longview, (430) 625-7121 HENRY & MOORE JEWELRY With more than 40 years of combined jewelry experience, Sondra T. Moore & Mamie Henry pair up to provide Longview with exquisite jewelry & gifts.

303 W. Loop 281 Ste. 105, Longview, (903) 663-1515 MERLE NORMAN Invest in the best cosmetics and skincare at Merle Norman. Take advantage of their free skin analysis, free five minute hydrating facial, free make-up lessons plus much more.

3500 McCann, #L7A, Longview Mall, Longview (903) 753-0041, www.merlenorman.com

to do

BELCHER CENTER Enjoy a bit of culture in your life. Take in special performances, concerts, community events and more. Go online for a schedule of events.

LeTourneau University, Stegall Dr., Longview (903) 233-3080 www.belchercenter.com

24 VIEW | J U LY / AU G U S T

CHERRY HILL MEDSPA FemTouch, Coolsculpting, skin laser procedures and skin treatments. Also, Botox fillers from performing Medical Directors Philip Hawner, M.D., plastic surgeon, Dr. Alyn Hatter, dermatologist, and a licensed staff.

1515 Judson Road, Longview (903) 757-2955 CHRISTUS GOOD SHEPHERD HEALTH SYSTEM CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Health System sets the standard for health, wellness and state-ofthe-art healthcare in East Texas.

700 E. Marshall Ave., Longview, (903) 315-2000, christusgoodshepherd.org EAST TEXAS PROFESSIONAL CREDIT UNION Take care of all your banking and financial needs with ETPCU. Become a member today and enjoy competitive rates on loans, mortgages, vehicles and more.

Multiple locations, www.etpcu.org EASTMAN CREDIT UNION Be a part of something extraordinary with ECU. Banking, financing, loans and competitive rates add superior value to your life and help reach your financial goals.

3066 N. Eastman Rd., Longview; 300 Kodak Blvd., Longview (800) 999-2328, www.ecu.org FLOOR MEDIC Your premium floor cleaning company is here to the rescue. They offer emergency water extraction, Oriental rug cleaning, tile and grout cleaning, upholstery cleaning and more.

322 W. Tyler Ave., Longview (903) 663-5509, www.floor-medic.com GRANITE PLANET East Texas' supplier of cultured marble and granite. Let us help you design the kitchen or bathroom of your dreams!

1229 Market St., Longview (903) 759-4726 LONGVIEW REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER Healing begins here as Longview’s community healthcare provider with 180 physicians and healthcare professionals, a 230-bed facility and national recognition in chest pain and stroke care.

2901 N. Fourth St., Longview (903) 758-1818, www.longviewregional.com

MASTER TRAVEL Plan your getaway with Master Travel. Buy airline tickets, reserve your hotel, and find the best deals on vacations, rental cars and cruises plus much more.

100 E. Tyler Ave., Longview, (903) 753-5896 R & K DISTRIBUTORS This family owned and operated company offers up to 68 different brands of alcohol from five different breweries, including exclusive rights to the Anheuser-Busch products.

1302 E. Whaley St., Longview, (903) 7584494, www.rkdistributors.com REA DENTAL From cosmetic dentistry to general dentistry, you’ll receive top-of-the-line dental services, including sedation dentistry, in a calm, relaxing, family friendly environment for all ages and stages.

907 Walnut Hill Dr., Longview (903)753-3531, www.readental.com TEXAS BANK AND TRUST Texas Bank and Trust has been serving East Texas for nearly 60 years. We serve 16 communities from Marshall, TX to the DFW metroplex. The directors, officers and employees of Texas Bank and Trust are committed to providing exceptional service and quality products to partner with our customers in achieving their financial goals.

ATMs worldwide.

Main Bank – 300 E. Whaley St.; Mortgage Lending – 304 N. Green St.; Pine Tree – 1800 W. Loop 281; Pine Tree Convenience – 1801 Gilmer Rd.; North Lgvw – 3622 McCann Rd. www.texasbankandtrust.com ZEID At Zeid Women’s Health Center we offer procedures and services that benefit all of our patients, including some procedures that can be done in-office through minimally invasive surgery.

907 Walnut Hill Dr., Longview (903) 315-2700, www.zeidwhc.com

To advertise your local business here, call 903-237-7736.

PICTURE THIS

TRINITY SCHOOL

OF TEXAS GALA LONGVIEW | PINECREST COUNTRY CLUB | 4/21/2018 Photos by COURTNEY CASE

Trinity School of Texas celebrated its 60th Diamond Anniversary during its annual gala, “60 Years of Brilliance,” on April 21 at Pinecrest Country Club in Longview.

RUSSELL & ERIN ROACH

Trinity School of Texas started as Trinity Day School in 1957 with 19 students in kindergarten and pre-K. The school expanded over the years, celebrating its first high school graduating class in 1990.

The 2018 Gala Committee was led by Director of Development Amy Brookshire (Trinity School of Texas class of 1993), and co-chairs Margaret Dodson, Lara Cupit (class of 1995), Ranjit Kodali (class of 1995), Marissa Martin and John Martin (class of 1999).

SARAH MONSOUR, CONNIE & STEVE RASH

MICHAEL CLEMENTS, JARDE RUSSELL, KENNY BARKHIMER WHITNEY FLOWERS, MARY FOX, LEAH MURRY

LAHREN SHAWN, KATELYN CLEMENTS, HAILEY BARKHIMER, WHITNEY MORGAN, MORGAN SHEPARD

LINDSAY CRENSHAW, KRISTINA COOLIDGE

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LONGVIEW

WINE FESTIVAL LONGVIEW | THE GREEN | 4/28/2018 Photos by MICHAEL CAVAZOS

About 2,500 people attended the East Texas Alzheimer’s Association’s inaugural Longview Wine Festival, held April 28 at the city’s newest park, The Green.

MORGAN SHEPARD, MORGAN STRONG

The event raised more than $100,000, which made it possible for the organization to move forward with hiring its first executive director.

The group wants to start offering more services to the families of people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, including respite care to provide a break for caregivers.

The Association has set next year’s Longview Wine Festival for noon to 6 p.m. April 27 at The Green.

CARRIE DERAMUS, EMILY DERAMUS HOLLI & CHARLES DAVIS

NORVELLA SKARDA, PEGGY MCKELVEY

26 VIEW | J U LY / AU G U S T

LINDA NELSON, ELYSE MCKINNEY, SARAH BARTELS

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RAISIN’ THE ROOF

LONGVIEW | MAUDE COBB CONVENTION AND ACTIVITY CENTER | 4/28/2018

DAVID & MELISSA KITCHENS, JANN & JOHN FRANKLIN

Photos by MICHAEL CAVAZOS

Northeast Texas Habitat for Humanity, known as Longview Habitat for Humanity until May, held its annual Raisin’ the Roof fundraiser on April 28 at the Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center.

Raisin’ the Roof features entertainment provided by local celebrity waiters, dancing, dinner and a silent auction.

Northeast Texas Habitat for Humanity serves Gregg, Harrison and Upshur counties through programs that: help low-income families become homeowners; repair homes for veterans and disabled and elderly people; and help with home maintenance for elderly, disabled and very low-

CATHY REED, ASHTON REEVES

income homeowners.

AMY CANTON, KENT PHILLIPS, JAMES MATHIS, TIM BRYAN, DONNA BLALOCK-HAVINZ

MERRITT & BRITTANY GRIMM

PENNY SHIELDS, DAWN NORTH

CORY & MEGAN BRADSHAW

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