“Freedom’s just another word for nothing left to lose.”

Kris Kristofferson, Me and Bobby McGee

In this issue, meet the New Boston Mafia boys who climbed a very high ladder of success, while making sure to remember their hometown folks.

Also from New Boston, Texas, the Bachers family art is on display another week or so at the Winnsboro Center for the Arts.

Highlighted this week too is the HIstoric Longview Farmers Market so be sure to plan an adventure there and follow the links to other great markets in towns that roll out the welcome wagon for delicious fun.

We’re also talking about the amazing 90 year old Johnny Mathis who just did his final show, and sharing links to Texas State Parks’ swimming hole picks. National Pubic Radio is highlighting two people’s efforts to save the Caddo language and talking about a former plantation that is being reimagined not as a monument to the past, but as a space for reparative history and healing.

Visit CountyLineMagazine.com for more on the people, places, and special attributes of the Upper East Side of Texas.

— P.A. Geddie

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A remarkable number of New Boston High School graduates from the 1950s and 60s moved to Dallas and became very successful. They didn’t forget where they came from however and the band of rural brothers continue to get together several times a year to reminisce and occasionally make donations to help out their hometown in the northeastern corner of Texas. READ MORE

Land of the Free, Home of the Brave

Over the last decade or so, the Independence Day celebrations in the Upper East Side of Texas have evolved from a few firecrackers here and there to full on parades, concerts, and spectacular fireworks shows. The holiday falls on a Friday this year which is likely to amplify the patriotic fun around the region. Read more to find a few ideas to enjoy the holiday this year.

The Bachers: Father & Son exhibition ends July 19 at Winnsboro Center for the Arts. Learn more about this special show with works by the late Gary Bachers of New Boston, Texas, and his son Christopher.

The Historic Longview Farmers Market takes place at the intersection of Cotton and High Streets. Nearby historical markers and the Gregg County Historical Museum tell the stories of early agriculture and other history of the area.

Market days include vendors selling mushrooms spinach, honey, breads, cookies, pasteurized meats, Indian and Mediterranean foods, and much more. They feature live music, artist demonstrations, and home and gift items including flower bouquets, pottery, jewelry, and apothecary items. Coupling farmers’ market finds with other things to do makes for a fun weekend getaway. Outdoor adventurers enjoy exploring local trails, parks, lakes, and golf courses and thrill-seeking off-road, zip lining, hot air balloon rides, and skydiving.

The Arts!Longview Cultural District resonates with those who love the arts, history, and culture in a walkable area of downtown Longview. A fine arts museum with exhibits throughout the year, a children’s theater, sculpture garden, two parks, historic train depot, historical museum, and library are all within a few blocks. The district is home to the Longview Symphony and a kids’ hands-on discovery center. Learn more about exploring the Longview area’s fine food, craft beer, artisan coffee, and more in this County Line article which also features numerous other travel ideas with itineraries to include the best farmers’ markets in the region.

• Gilmer native and internationally acclaimed performer Johnny Mathis sang “Misty” for the last time on stage recently as he brought his amazing long career to a close. He turns 90 years old on September 30.

Texas State Parks offer swimming opportunities from spring-fed rivers to Texas-sized lakes. Check with each park before you go for safety tips and possible closings due to environmental conditions. A few prime spots in the beautiful Upper East Side of Texas include state parks in Atlanta, Bonham, Cooper Lake, Daingerfield, Lake Bob Sandlin, Lake Tawakoni, Martin Creek Lake, Martin Dies, Jr., Purtis Creek and Tyler.

• Saving the Caddo Language

HOW TO REACH US

County Line Magazine, PO Box 705, Winnsboro, TX 75494

Phone: (903) 312-9556

pa.geddie@geddieconnections.com

www.countylinemagazine.com