After having to cancel the event for the past two years due to COVID, the Books in Bloom luncheon benefiting the Henderson County Clint W. Murchison Memorial Library will take place from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Friday, April 22 at First United Methodist Church activities building in Athens.
Books in Bloom is an annual luncheon that invites authors to speak to raise awareness and funds for the library through the Public Library Foundation. This year’s guest speakers will be Michael Granberry and Burk Murchison, who will discuss their forthcoming book, “The Hole in the Roof: A True Texas Tale” about Clint Murchison, Jr., the Dallas Cowboys, and the stadium that forever changed American sport.
Clint Murchison, Jr., was the founder and owner of the Dallas Cowboys, forming the organization in 1959, with its inaugural season in 1960. Burk Murchison is the son of Clint Murchison, Jr. and grandson of the oil empire and Athens native Clint Murchison, Sr.
Michael Granberry is an Arts & Features writer for the Dallas Morning News and also co-authored the book. He is originally from Dallas and spent 19 years at the Los Angeles Times before returning to Dallas.
Under Murchison, the Dallas Cowboys had 20 straight winning seasons, 17 years of playoff appearances, five Super Bowl appearances and two Lombardi Trophies.
There were many firsts under Murchison, such as when he provided the first 10-year contract to a coach, Tom Landry, despite many believing he should be fired. The Cowboys were the first team to use computers in an NFL Draft, and the stadium was the first of its kind to feature luxury suites on a commercial scale.
Murchison put a lot of time, money and care into the concept and construction of the stadium. He wanted a venue that protected fans while allowing weather elements to impact the game, which is why the “hole in the roof” was designed. The stadium opened in 1971 and has become a national icon and a prototype of the modern NFL stadium.
Lunch will include beautifully decorated spring garden tables and guests can enjoy a meal prepared by The Cherry Laurel restaurant.
Tables of eight are available for $500 or individual tickets can be purchased for $65. Tables are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis once payment has been received.
To reserve a seat or table, please contact Beth Faulk at 903-286-6862 or PLFBooksinbloom@gmail.com or send a check payable to “Public Library Fund” to PO Box 1171, Athens TX 75751.
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