ALBANY — Those with tickets to the Fort Griffin Fandangle on Friday night got an unexpected bonus in the form of former first lady Laura Bush, who made a special appearance as part of her work with a nature conservation organization.
Stamford resident Peggy Mansell was among those in the audience at Albany's annual outdoor musical delighted by the surprise visit.
"I was really excited when I saw it was her," said Mansell, who was attending the Fandangle for the first time with her family. "I couldn't take my eyes off of her, and she spoke with such grace and poise. I'm so glad I was here."
Bush is the founder of Texan by Nature, an Austin-based nonprofit that seeks to "spur Texan-led conservation that produces tangible benefits for people, prosperity and natural resources."
"I am thrilled to see you here in Albany tonight," Bush said after arriving to a standing ovation from the crowd. "Just as the Fandangle celebrates the rural community built on our prairie roots, I share your love for the rich heritage of Texas."
Bush said Texans' quality of life is directly tied to their conservation of natural resources.
"The challenges we face are bigger than any one of us," she said, "but not all of us together."
An important connection contributed significantly to the former first lady's decision to come to the Fandangle, said Erin Franz, executive director of Texan by Nature.
"At the heart of this organization is our vision for all Texans to share a conservation ethic that ensures Texas' economic vitality and heritage for generations to come," Franz said. "The city of Albany has proven itself a steward of Texas' natural heritage, not just by re-enacting the story of this prairie land year after year, but also by living that heritage each day."
Steve Waller, a member of the Fandangle board, said it was an honor to have Bush in Albany.
"Her presence here is significant, and we are very impressed with the work Texan by Nature is doing," Waller said. "Mrs. Bush was gracious and very engaging; she took time to speak to many of our cast members, and that made a real impression on them."
"Albany and Texan by Nature share a deep care and commitment to the land and to the wildlife that makes its home here," Franz said. "The stewardship they display on their properties creates shared benefits, including enhanced air and water quality, for all Texans to enjoy. Mrs. Bush and Texan by Nature are here to honor and celebrate that — and share this story with our entire state."
"Congratulations to all of you, and to the Fort Griffin Fandangle, for 78 great years," Bush said. "We salute your commitment."
