Rambling Roses
By Visit Tyler
Rambling RosesMay 11, 2023
Rose City Airfest
The 3rd annual Rose City Airfest is coming back to Tyler, Texas June 30, 2023. Join Cindy Smoak and co-host Sheridan Smith as they visit with Travis Gladhill, Executive Director of CampV. Travis visits with the Rambling Roses about this year’s Rose City Airfest and some new additions to the event!!
29. Red Dirt BBQ and Music Festival
This year is the 9th annual Red Dirt BBQ and Music Festival, a celebration of Texas Country Music and great BBQ held in Tyler, Texas. Join Cindy Smoak and co-host Sheridan Smith as they visit with Buddy Logan, KNUE On-Air Personality and host of Radio Texas LIVE! Buddy visits with the Rambling Roses about the history of Red Dirt BBQ and Music Festival and this year’s incredible line up of entertainment and restaurants!
28. Tyler State Park
This year is the 100-year anniversary of the Texas State Parks and Tyler has one of the most beautiful in the state. Join Cindy Smoak and co-host Diann Bayes as they visit with Boyd Sanders, Interpreter and Volunteer Coordinator for the Tyler State Park. Boyd shares some of the exciting things going on at the park this year and what is being planned to celebrate this milestone anniversary.
Connect with us:
VisitTyler.com
@VisitTyler
27. Tyler Arts and Culture Collective
Today we have a crossover episode with Visit Tyler's Rambling Roses podcast! Hosts Julie Goodgame (Roses and Weeds) and Holli Fourniquet (Rambling Roses) sat down with Destination Innovate and Visit Tyler President Shari Lee to talk about the new Arts and Culture Collective. The Tyler Arts and Culture Collective has the mission to educate, inspire, elevate, and preserve Tyler's unique art and culture community. Find out what the group is doing, and how you can get involved.
Connect with us:
VisitTyler.com
@VisitTyler
26. Oakwood Cemetery
Tyler, Texas has a lot of history and one of the most historical places is the Oakwood Cemetery. The cemetery was established in 1849 and the people who are buried there have some very interesting stories. Join Holli and Cindy as they visit with Michael Hurley, Oakwood Cemetery Restoration Committee member and Chair of Oakwood in October, to talk about the cemetery and some of the exciting plans for future projects and events.
Connect with us:
VisitTyler.com
@VisitTyler
25. Tyler's Rosy Experiences!
Tyler, Texas is the Rose Capital of America and home to the largest municipal rose garden in the nation. But did you know there are other rosy adventures awaiting you? Join Holli and Cindy as they discuss other unique rose offerings here in the town of roses.
Connect with us:
VisitTyler.com
@VisitTyler
24. Two Year Anniversary Special
Wow 2 years and 24 episodes in the books! There have been a lot of stories about the people, places, and things of Tyler, Texas. Join Holli and Cindy as they look back on some of their favorite podcasts from their first 2 years.
Connect with us:
VisitTyler.com
@VisitTyler
23. Coming Full Circle
Megan Magill was born and raised in Tyler, Texas. She grew up with a love for dance, theatre, and music and had a dream of making it to New York City and fulfilling her desire and passion to become a Broadway actress and star. Megan was on the verge of her big breakthrough moment when the plans changed. Join Holli and Cindy and listen to Megan as she tells her story of what she thought was a heartbreak time in her life and how it came full circle bringing her back to her roots in Tyler, Texas.
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22. Amazing Comeback
FRESH 15 is a one-of-a-kind 15k race here in Tyler and is growing in popularity nation-wide. Each year, racers from all over the nation descend on Tyler to this popular event. This year was one of the best races yet. It also had a unique human-interest story involving former Tyler Police officer Abby Rodseth. Abby won 1st place in Local Female and sixth place female overall in the 15k distance. Her story of a tragic accident and her triumph to get back to a sport she has always loved, will inspire all of you. Join Holli and Cindy and hear Abby’s amazing and heartwarming story.
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21. Meet Tyler's American Idol
East Texas is known for turning out talent, and now we're proud to have Fritz Hager III representing Tyler on American Idol. F3 is currently in the top 10 contestants, and will be continue competing to stay on the show. In this episode, Cindy and Holli catch up with Fritz about growing up in Tyler, his favorite Tyler hot spots, some behind-the-scenes stories from being on the show, and how he has gotten this far. Remember to vote for F3 throughout the rest of the season and help our hometown boy become this year's American Idol.
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20. Spring is in the Air
Spring is here in Tyler, Texas. Birds are singing, flowers are blooming, and Tyler is alive with the Azalea and Spring Flower Trail and tons of other events and activities that make this season great! Join Holli and Cindy as they visit with Visit Tyler Vice President of Tourism and Servicing, Susan Travis. You will hear about all the exciting things that are happening in the spring in Tyler, Texas. For more information about Tyler and for a comprehensive list of events visit their website: visittyler.com
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19. A High Hill Development
Do you ever just want to get away to your favorite place but not have to take a day to get there? There is a place right here in Tyler’s own backyard that offers the amenities, view, and serenity of a getaway to Seaside or another resort location. High Hill Development is creating an oasis at High Hill Farm. Join Holli and Cindy as they visit with Jason Romano, Co-Founder and High Hill Development Principal. Hear the exciting news about the next luxury phase of High Hill Development. For more information about High Hill Farm and High Hill Development visit their websites: Highhillfarm.com and highhilldevelopment.com
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18. Downtown Tyler
Downtown is the heart and soul of every city. It is vital to preserve the history of your town but to also make way for new and innovative things. Join Holli and Cindy as they visit with Tyler Main Street Director Amber Varona. You will hear about all the exciting things that are happening in downtown Tyler. For more information about Downtown Tyler and the Main Street Department visit their website: DowntownTyler.org.
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17. The Heart of Tyler's Cultural Community
Arts are an important part of any healthy vibrant community. The Arts bring many benefits to a city. Join Holli and Cindy as they visit with East Texas Symphony Orchestra Executive Director Robin Hampton and ETSO Music Director Richard Lee. Find out what they are bringing to Tyler and East Texas and what their feelings are about the importance and benefits of the Arts in our community.
To find out more information about East Texas Symphony Orchestra, their calendar of events, their musicians, and more visit ETSO.org.
Connect with us:
VisitTyler.com
16. Shop Local with this Tyler Icon
Studies show that for every $100 spent at a small business, $48 stays in the community. The holidays are just around the corner, and it's more important than ever to shop small this season. On this episode, Holli and Cindy visit with Anthony Cortez, Event Coordinator at one of Tyler's local treasures: The Potpourri House. The Potpourri house is a restaurant and boutique that is celebrating its 40th Anniversary of serving the people in the Tyler community. Find out what it means to have businesses like this in Tyler and how you can support this and other businesses like it this holiday season.
To find out more information about Potpourri House, its hours of operation, menu, meeting space, boutique and more: Potpourrihouse.com
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15. Creatives in Tyler
Did you know with the advances made in technology, creatives are able to build their business right here in Tyler? Many creative business owners are doing just that. On this month's episode, the Rambling Roses catch up with a Cory Fourniquet, local business owner and YouTube creator for GT Garage Talk. We learn what it takes to start a business like this in the East Texas area, what it means for Tyler and other local businesses as well as hear about a few projects they have going on including the annual Unlikely Heroes Car Show Presented by Carwash by Cain that features the daily drivers instead of just the big flashy cars. For more information about GT Garage Talk go to GTGarageTalk.com or to register your car for the car show go to GTGarageTalk.com/CarShow.
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14. Meet the Dress Designer
Rose Season is just around the corner and with that comes the 88th Annual Texas Rose Festival! Join Holli and Cindy as they visit with Jacob Climer, Costume and Set Designer, and the new designer for the Texas Rose Festival. Jacob will share his background with us, and his approach to designing this year’s costumes and set.
To find out more information about this year’s Texas Rose Festival go to TexasRoseFestival.com.
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13. Meet the Locals
Did you know that Tyler has one of the best zoos in the state? Join Holli and Cindy as they visit with Caldwell Zoo Executive Director – Hayes Caldwell. The Zoo has an interesting history here in Tyler that you might find surprising. From it's beginning in a backyard to growing into its current 85-acre location, the zoo and its animals have found a place in the history and hearts of the Tyler community. Find out how Caldwell Zoo began and listen as Hayes shares stories about his favorite zoo animal and previews some upcoming plans for the zoo! Make your plans to visit the Caldwell Zoo and meet some of Tyler's other locals!
To find out more information about Caldwell Zoo, its hours of operation, and to purchase tickets go to their website: Caldwellzoo.org
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12. The Rambling Rosés
Kiepersol Vineyard, Winery, and Distillery is a food and wine destination in East Texas. Award-winning, estate-grown artisan wines and spirits are finely crafted to be comfortable to drink, pairing everyday life with the abundance of the earth. It's a beautiful destination to visit in the area, but also has an interesting history. Completely family owned and operated since the beginning and opening in a dry county, Kiepersol is the definition of a grass roots, locally owned business that forever changed the culture of the area, and was on the cutting edge of beginning the wine industry in East Texas. Take a peek behind the curtain in this episode of Rambling Roses as we talk to Kelly Doherty, Founding Brand Manager of Kiepersol, about Kiepersol's history.
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Download the Thirsty Pines Tour for exclusive discounts and the chance to win prizes, and explore everything East Texas has to offer in wineries, craft breweries, craft coffee, and distillery. Download the free pass here: GoEastTexas.com
11. Tourism is Back
With summer here, it's time for a road trip! Tyler is the perfect spot for your next getaway. In this episode, the Rambling Roses talk about all of the fun things to see and do in Tyler as well as the importance of tourism to the economy. This summer, don't let your vacation time go to waste! Take a summer road trip to the Rose Capital of America.
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The Story of Terrence Murphy
In East Texas, football is king. Tyler has turned out many football legends over the years. In this episode, Cindy & Holli catch up with Terrence Murphy, a local and national football star. Terrence was born and raised in Tyler, Texas, and this summer he's bringing a free camp to his hometown to give back to the community. The camp will focus on three aspects that shaped his future: football, finances, and faith. Terrence graduated from Chapel Hill High School. He then went on to play at Texas A&M and was drafted in the second round (58th) pick of the 2005 NFL draft to the Green Bay Packers. Today, Terrence lives in College Station, Texas where he owns several businesses.
Sign up for the camp:
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9. Historic Tyler on Tour
Tyler is known for its history, in particular its historic district. Visitors and residents alike enjoy visiting the historic districts throughout the year to see the beauty of the seasons along with the historic homes. In this episode, Cindy and Holli catch up with Ashley Washmon, Executive Director of Historic Tyler Inc., which hosts the popular Historic Tyler on Tour each year. This is the only event of the year to view the inside of some of these homes. Even though, this event normally takes place during the Azalea & Spring Flower Trail, this year the event will take place in May. Tour up to 6 historic homes and buildings in the area and learn a little about their history and importance to Tyler's story. Ashley shares with us the importance of historic preservation as well as some of the mysteries she's learned while working with historic home owners right here in Tyler.
To see the featured homes and buy tickets to Historic Tyler on Tour, visit Historic Tyler Inc.'s website: HistoricTyler.org
Or they can be purchased at the Downtown Visitor's Center located at 110 N. College Ave.
Connect with us!
Instagram: @VisitTyler
Facebook: @VisitTyler
8. Living in the Azalea District
Tyler is known for its history, and one of the most popular places to visit to see some of Tyler's famous historic homes is the historic Azalea District. Each spring this district comes alive with colors during the annual Azalea & Spring Flower Trail. On this episode, the Roses catch up with a couple of the homeowners who live along the Trail. They discuss what it's like living in this popular area of town, and even some mysteries they have uncovered in their historic homes. For more information on the Azalea & Spring Flower Trail visit our website at TylerAzaleaTrail.com.
Share your spring photos with us for a chance to be featured on our page:
Facebook: @VisitTyler
Instagram: @VisitTyler
Twitter: @VisitTyler
7. Spring in Tyler After a Freeze
In this episode the Rambling Roses talk with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Horticulturist Greg Grant the recent severe winter storm that hit Tyler and all of Texas. Spring is a beautiful time to visit Tyler, but the storm has left many wondering what will be blooming this year. Greg shines some light on what we can expect to see this spring as well as gardening tips if you are worried about your own plants.
For more information on how to care for your plants after a freeze, check out these Facebook pages:
Aggie Horticulture
Smith Count Master Gardeners
Neil Sperry's Gardens
For the most up-to-date information on the Azalea Trail as well as a progress of the blooms check out our website www.TylerAzaleaTrail.com or follow @VisitTyler on social media.
6. Meet The Tyler Rose, Earl Campbell
In this episode, Cindy and Holli chat with The Tyler Rose himself, Earl Campbell. Earl Campbell was nicknamed "The Tyler Rose" during is football career because he was raised and got his start in Tyler. He college he played for the Texas Longhorns earning him the Heisman Trophy. He was drafted first by the Oilers in 1978 and went on to have a legendary football career. On and off the field, Earl has made his hometown proud. Learn more about Earl's childhood, his old stomping grounds, and how he really feels about growing up in Tyler, Texas.
Recently, Earl began the Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award and scholarship awarded at a banquet held in Tyler each year. The award is given to one of the nation's top college offensive player of the year who meets the award's criteria and encourages student athletes to succeed on and off the field while having the drive and the tenacity to persist and overcome adversity and injury in the pursuit of reaching their goals.
The Rambling Roses also catch up with last year's Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award winner, J.K. Dobbins. Dobbins is currently the running back for the Baltimore Ravens in the NFL. Cindy and Holli catch up with him on all of the successes he has seen over the past year and get his words of wisdom for young athletes.
Follow us on social media:
@VisitTyler
@HolliFourniquet
5. Shop Local, Shop Tyler
Now more than ever, it's important to shop local and keep those dollars in the community. Cindy and Holli interview three local store owners about how different the shopping experience is when you shop local versus a big box store. Learn about each of their unique shopping experiences, and this holiday season, shop local, shop Tyler!
This episode features:
The Kitchen Drawer
@thekitchendrawer
www.thekitchendrawertyler.com
903 Handmade
@903Handmade
www.903handmade.com
ETXstore
@ETXstore
www.etxstore.com
Follow us online:
@VisitTyler
@HolliFourniquet
www.VisitTyler.com
4. Azalea District Trail of Lights
You’ve seen the Azalea Trail District during the spring, now experience one of Tyler’s most beautiful neighborhoods lit for the holiday season in an event we’re calling the Azalea District Trail of Lights.
On this episode of Rambling Roses, Cindy and Holli catch up with Susan Travis at Visit Tyler about one of Tyler's newest events: the Azalea District Trail of Lights.
Throughout December, take a self-guided tour through this historic district and see the homes in all of their holiday glory.
Share your photos of the Trail and vote for your favorite homes on the Azalea District Trail of Light Facebook group!
If you live in the Azalea District, you are encouraged to participate by decorating your home for the holidays. There will be a Homeowner’s decorating contest with a chance to win prizes. You must register your house in order to participate in the competition.
For more information on this event go to VisitTyler.com/RoseCityChristmas
Tell us your favorite holiday memories on Facebook or Instagram:
Facebook.com/VisitTyler
Instagram.com/VisitTyler
3. Texas Rose Festival
Tyler, Texas is known for its roses. More than 80 years ago, Tyler hosted its first Texas Rose Festival to celebrate the roses and rose growers. The festival, typically happening the 3rd weekend each October, celebrates the season with a parade, pageantry, elegance, and of course, roses. On this month's episode, Cindy and Holli interview Liz Ballard, Executive Director of the Texas Rose Festival. Take a peak behind the curtain, and see what it takes to put together one of Texas' largest festivals. Learn what goes into the planning the event and what goes into making the intricate dresses each year.
Connect with us!
@VisitTyler on all platforms
Holli: @HolliFourniquet
www.VisitTyler.com
www.texasrosefestival.com
East Texas Football is King
In East Texas, football is king. In this episode, Cindy & Holli explore how this game can not only influence the culture of an area, but also change the trajectory of these high school kids' careers. We'll meet two NFL players who got their start here in East Texas. They will tell us about how football helped them be successful both on and off the field.
Aaron Ross, John Tyler High School, University of Texas, and NFL player and Super Bowl Champion joins us on this episode and shares his story from his time in Tyler through his NFL career. Ross shares his Ups and downs and life lessons and how all of it helped shape the man he is today.
Fred Coleman, proud Tyler native and local sports hero, also talks with Holli and Cindy. Hear how growing up in Tyler and playing football helped mold Fred in more ways than just athletic talent.
Connect with Holli & Cindy on Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter @VisitTyler.
Meet the Roses
We're Holli and Cindy, and we’re the rambling roses, coming to you from the Rose Capital of America, Tyler, Texas. Each month, we’ll have a discussion on some of the little known facts and fun (sometimes quirky) stories that make Tyler a fun place to live, work, and play. This is the first episode, where we'll give you a little background into our history and why we chose Tyler.
If you have any stories you would like for the roses to look into or have a question, email ramblingroses@tylertexas.com.
Rambling Roses Trailer
Join Cindy and Holli as they explore some of the untold stories of Tyler, Texas that make up the culture. A new episode will be released each month.