Drawn to Longview, Texas
Houston Art Patrons Retire to East Texas
 
Diane and Steve, age 59 and 63, had lived in Houston for 38 years. From their downtown high rise condo, they were in the middle of all Houston had to offer. They loved the museums that were just steps away from their home. Unfortunately, endless traffic was also right outside their door. “We loved Houston, but I was done with all that traffic,” says Diane. 
 
As the couple neared retirement, they began searching for a location with a slower pace that still offered quality medical care, easy access to the arts, and other amenities. They visited Brenham and Waco and College Station, but they didn’t find the right fit. They visited San Antonio and Fort Worth, but those cities seemed too large. And then, out of the blue, Diane discovered Longview. “I was researching online about an artist that I like, and I saw that there was a display in East Texas. The next thing you know, I am learning all about Longview. I told my husband, ‘We need to visit Longview.’” 
 
During four visits to Longview, they shopped, bowled, saw a movie, attended church, and of course, learned about Longview’s art scene. “Before we made a life-changing decision, we wanted to know about the place.” They found in Longview a small town atmosphere with cultural and artistic opportunity. “People were friendly in Houston, but everyone was VERY friendly here. In East Texas, people would start up conversations in the middle of the store.”
 
After three years of searching, the couple had finally found their retirement town. In 2010, Diane and Steve built their dream home. “I really love the neighborhood. If you want to meet people, just work in the front yard a few minutes and soon all the neighbors will stop by to talk.”
 
Since moving to Longview, the couple has jumped right in. They became involved at First United Methodist Church. Steve joined AMBUCS civic club and helps build ramps for disabled residents.  He’s also taken an artistic welding class at Longview Museum of Fine Arts.  Diane has become involved with her neighborhood and much more. She says her new friends are always inviting her to one activity after another.
 
Diane says, “I was really excited to find an extensive arts community that was so easily accessible. For a town of its size, Longview really has a lot. We’ve been to the East Texas Community Chorus, the Longview Symphony, and even a youth concert at a church, just to name a few. There are lots of free or nominally-priced events, which is a very good discovery.” 
 
When asked what she likes about Longview, Diane listed less traffic than Houston,  the beauty of the trees, and the friendliness of the people. When asked what she disliked most, she said, “I haven’t found much to dislike yet.”