Four States Living Magazine January 2021

ON THE COVER - JANUARY 2021

Victoria (Brooks) Owens and her husband, Shawn, were married September 6, 2020, on a warm Sunday afternoon. They had the wedding of their dreams, complete with laughter, tears, memories, and good food. They look forward to 2021 and are excited to see what the new year has in store for them as husband and wife.

(Photo by Makayla Jones Photography) See “Weddings” on page 40.

The Way I See It...

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Robin Rogers, Ed.D.

I don’t know about you, but I am so relieved that we have put 2020 in our rearview mirror. Last year, I lost people who had been important to me over the years. Some passed away, and others just split. COVID took some, and greed took others. The grief so many of us share from loss has knocked the wind from my sails, but with time, we can reconcile that loss and the lessons that came from the relationships we had along the way.

My grandmother always said that “blood is thicker than water,” meaning friends pass through, but family sticks. As I grow older, I understand why she said this so often. As people get caught up in self-interests, friendships often wane. But, family will always have an open door and open arms. You may not be able to pick your family, but if you still have a mother or a grandmother or a special uncle, make time to show them they are loved.

I am making some resolutions for this new year, and I hope many of you will see the value in mapping out goals for a more fulfilling life. After some personal reflection, I can hear a good friend in my ear saying, “Get to living, Girl. This is not a dress rehearsal.” In the last 30 days of 2020, I took inventory of the things that made me happy and the things that did not. I looked around at the things I could change, and the things I could not. What’s funny is “things” really don’t make me happy at all; people do. And the “things” that drive me crazy? Those things can be managed if I take the time to get organized and prioritize them. Other people aren’t ever going to change, so if people are your problem, you have decisions to make. Do you need to find better people to surround yourself with? Another of my grandmother’s favorite sayings was, “If you lie down with dogs, you will definitely get fleas.” Choose your circle wisely. My first New Year’s resolution is to tell my friends and family that I love them. I never

Four St ates Living

want there to be any question.

My second resolution is to spend a year trying to only shop locally. What does that mean? Well, I am keeping my Amazon Prime account for the movies, but for anything else, I am going to spend my money with locally owned businesses in Texarkana, USA. Small businesses have suffered tremendously since the pandemic began. We all have choices to make with where we spend our money. From now on, I will thoughtfully spend mine in the city that I love, with people who pay taxes here and make their livings here. Before anyone can “think global,” we need to take care of local. I am resolving to support my neighbors with my money.

Another thing that 2020 taught us is nothing will ever be the same as it was “pre-COVID.” I have a friend who lives in Dallas and worked (note I wrote worked, as in past tense) in the tallest building in downtown, the Bank of America building. There were hundreds of people who worked in that building that were sent home when COVID showed up in March. Those people were told to set up a home office and continue to work from home. In a short nine month period, those few hundred people were also told that they did not have an office to go back to, so as long as their production was good, their jobs were safe, and they could work from anywhere. Imagine how many businesses moved their workforce home. Imagine how many buildings are now left empty across this country. Imagine how many people are working as “business on top and pajama pants on bottom.” I know people who have worked this way for years, but I personally don’t think it’s healthy. At least it’s not healthy for me. I need personal, human interaction with others. There is a loss in communication over a computer or in an email or through a text. I am cognizant that words can

PUBLISHER

Dr. Robin Rogers

EDITOR

Suzy Turner

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Kim McMurry

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Lori Rochelle

PHOTOGRAPHER

Dr. Robin Rogers

FEATURED COLUMNISTS

Nichole Holze

Donnie Spriggs

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jennifer Jordan

Lindsey McMillan

Vicki Melde

Jileen Platt

Lisa Porterfield Thompson

be read differently from their intent, so the smiling face, laughing face, crying face, and the peace sign are part of my texting and emailing lexicon. My hope is that nobody ever wonders if I am trying to be a jerk or trying to be a sweetheart. People matter, and I hope we all remember to be more kind in 2021. Recovery is never without challenges.

My third resolution is to prioritize fun. As soon as my family can get a vaccine, we are celebrating. Will there be a “Roaring Twenties” upcoming? I sure hope so. I will bob my hair and buy flapping fringe for some dresses. Because my daughter Emily is considered high risk for COVID, we have done nothing fun in almost a year. So, how will I prioritize fun? Every day, there is going to be music and dancing in the house. We are going to the concerts, attending the museum events, and participating in everything we can that might expand our minds or entertain our souls. I am hosting game nights, and we are going to laugh and eat and drink. I resolve to be the hostess with the mostest and have a door that is always open. I am planning vacations, parties, and road trips as part of the 2021 Bucket List Tour every single day. Fun has been missing, but lookout 2021. It’s time to play.

So, I am making only three resolutions: love more and tell people how much they are loved; shop locally and support our local economy; and party like a rock star. Make your list now; it’s not too late to make a plan for a better 2021.

Look at this beautiful cover. In January of every year, we showcase weddings that represent new beginnings and faith in our future. This issue also spotlights exciting stories of progress and change in our community. I hope you enjoy! Happy New Year, and as always, thanks for reading FSLM

Four States Living Magazine is distributed free of charge. Direct mail subscriptions are $36.00 per year. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material contributed.

Do You Have a Story or a Photo?

We welcome information regarding topics of interest for future publications. If you have a story or photos that in some way depicts living or visiting in the Four States area and would be of interest to our readers, we want to hear from you. Call 903-792 -2262 or write: Editorial Department, Four States Living Magazine, 4106 Summerhill Square, Texarkana, Texas 75503. Comments are also welcome at our e-mail address: info@fourstatesliving.com

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SCENE ABOUT TOWN

WOMEN FOR THE ARTS AND FOR ARTS’ SAKE GIFT SHOP’S HOLIDAY ARTS MARKET & OPEN HOUSE

Women for the Arts and For Arts’ Sake Gift Shop presented its 12th annual Holiday Arts Market & Open House on December 4-5 in the Regional Arts Center. Over 35 local and regional artists featured handcrafted one-of-a-kind items including jewelry, paintings, pottery, scarves, handmade soaps, leather goods, honey, wooden bowls and baskets, and much more.

Mike and Sarah Bobbitt

Jon Welborn

Joseph Raymond

Laney Bassham and Ryan Holze

Matthew Cornelius

Jes Weiner

Gabrielle Bachers, Chris Bachers and Polly Cook

Tina Veal-Gooch and Tammy Turk

Chris Thomas and Nina Cork

Nan Waits

Kathy Douthit

Sarah Wiltshire, Stacy Wiltshire and Whitney Wiltshire

JESSICA YOUNGBLOOD SHARES HER STORY OF ADDICTION, RECOVERY, AND NEW BEGINNINGS

photo by DR. ROBIN ROGERS

LIFE is never too far gone

by JILEEN PLATT

A 21-year old girl. Long, dark hair, matted in clumps. Dirty black fingernails. A sunken face and emaciated body slumped in the front seat of her dad’s car.

Jessica’s father answered the phone, and then rescued her from her boyfriend/drug dealer’s house. It was an answer to a frantic and desperate prayer offered in a locked bathroom after she had been grabbed by her throat and threatened with a knife. Jessica had pleaded, “God, if You’re real … save me from this situation and myself!”

That day was the start of a new beginning for Jessica, who was abandoned by her mother at eight months old and raised by her father in Kirby, Arkansas. She struggled with the need for acceptance and started drinking alcohol at age 12 and partied regularly through high school. At the age of 19, she became pregnant and had a son. “I really wanted to be the mom that I never had,” says Jessica. “But I could only ‘play house’ for so long.” When her son was four months old, she started drinking again.

Four months later, Jessica was introduced to meth. “It gripped me like a python,” states Jessica. “Before I even knew what happened … it was crushing me.” She felt invincible, energized, and euphoric like never before on her first hit … but “you’re chasing that feeling and never get it again,” remembers Jessica. “And everything that goes up must come down. It’s like jumping out of a 10-story building and hitting the pavement face first.”

For a few years, Jessica was caught in the continual snare of onand-off meth use, even giving up the rights to her son. At one point, she would eat every third day and sleep every fifth day. “I was the walking dead,” says Jessica. “The python … was around my neck, and I couldn’t get it off!”

After being rescued by her father that day in the bathroom, Janna, an older friend from her youth, visited Jessica while she was attempting to detox. She brought a barbecue sandwich, a Dr. Pepper, some lotion, and a journal that said on the front, “Don’t Quit.” That morning Jessica had almost given up. “The lotion smelled clean, like a new beginning … and I always love me some Dr. Pepper!” states Jessica. Janna had been her “first healthy motherly figure,” says Jessica. “She is an angel on earth! She accepted me where I was but always loved me to higher places.”

After this simple, but pivotal intervention, Jessica enrolled at Hot Springs Beauty College. “I was trying to change my life but would still binge out on meth. I thought relapsing would be my life forever.” And it might have been, had another “new beginning” not walked

Jessica and Jon enjoyed taking pics with their kiddos: Ozzie, Ezra, Zeeland, and Jazzie.

(Photo by Rachel Allison)

Jessica self-published her autobiography, “Worth the Pain: My Journey from Meth to Ministry” in January 2018.

Jessica and Jon were married August 16, 2003, at Texarkana Country Club. She calls this her “Cinderella story.”

through the door at Fisherman’s Wharf where Jessica waited tables.

Jon Youngblood, a graduate of Arkansas High School, who’d grown up attending the country club and played University of Arkansas baseball on scholarship, was in Hot Springs for work. He went to dinner with a friend, who asked Jessica out while she waited on them. Jessica remembers, “I said no to him, but his friend (Jon) was cute!” So Jessica said she’d go out with him instead.

“She was everything I wasn’t,” states Jon. “I had honestly cut people off in my life that were anything like her, and I was in this place in my own life where I realized how wrong that was.” Jon was unable to play baseball anymore due to a recent injury. “It put me in a pretty dark place … I started making decisions that were completely outside of my character … primarily heavy drinking.”

After a few weeks of dating, Jessica asked Jon for help “to be a better version

of herself.” “She was living such a reckless lifestyle,” says Jon, “and would use the excuse that it’s because of what happened to her in the past.” Jon was truthful and direct. “He was the first person to tell me ‘Stop pitying the life you’ve been given,’” states Jessica. He told her, “True worth and value are found, not in what was done to [you], but how God [sees you].”

Jessica trusted Jon’s words and worked toward turning her life to God. “I surrendered everything. Nothing was off limits for Him to transform,” exclaims Jessica. “I was so hungry for a different life, I just kept feeding my soul with God.”

Sobriety, change, and self-acceptance came. “The more I changed, the more I loved myself and was at peace,” says Jessica. “My identity was in Christ, not being a meth addict or someone with a dark past.” “What was crazy,” states Jon, “was that in the process of her [relying on God], she showed me what an intimate

Pastor Earl McClellan of Shoreline City Church in East Dallas blesses Jon and Jessica to plant a church in Texarkana.

Jessica with her family this past October in front of Vessel Church’s new location at 722 Pine Street. With her are her son, Ozzie; son, Zeeland; daughter, Jazzie; husband, Jon; and son, Ezra. (Photo by Rachel Allison)

relationship with Jesus looked like … she talked about God, not as this far-off being, but as this person she did life with everyday.”

Jon and Jessica were married in August of 2003 and later blessed with two sons and a daughter. Jessica has also reconciled with her oldest son, and she has forgiven her mother. In a sense, Jon and Jessica rescued each other, but that’s not the end of their “new beginnings.”

For seven years, while the family lived in Dallas, Jessica felt the need to share her story. With volunteer editors and self-publishing, Jessica wrote a book “Worth the Pain: My Journey from Meth to Ministry” which eventually became a bestseller on Amazon in 2018. She wrote the gritty details of her life before and after meth and the help she received from God. But “I wrote for the addict … not the Christian,” states Jessica. “I wanted to share that life is never too far gone.”

After reading the book and having a serendipitous moment at Jessica’s high school reunion, Jon felt strongly that they needed to help others like Jessica. “I [felt] like it was the beginning point of God showing me that while I cannot [fix] the past, He is wanting to use us to protect and be a hope for [others].” So Jon, Jessica, and their family left their home in Dallas, sold their belongings, and returned to Texarkana to start a church and begin their newest “new beginning.”

Vessel Church, located on Pine Street, follows the mission statement that there is “hope for every story.” The church name comes from the song “New Wine” by Hillsong Worship that says, “So make me your vessel. Make me an offering. Make me whatever you want me to be.” “We wanted to start a church that showed every single person that Jesus is bigger than what their past or their circumstances are,” explains Jessica. “And we emphasize EVERY story. Not just the drug addict or homeless, but the story of doctors, teachers, business owners … everyone has a story. Everyone needs help.”

Some may say that Jon and Jessica’s story is just a fairy tale, and they got lucky. While they are blessed with a good life now, they believe that a restart can come to anyone if they turn to God and don’t give up. “Life is a set of new beginnings,” states Jessica. “We will trip but we need to keep getting up. You’ll never get to the new beginnings if you just stop in the pain.”

This past June, Jessica shared some quality time with her father, Jerry Teague. She calls him her “world.”

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

FAN FARE BOUTIQUE & GIFTS CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA

Fan Fare Boutique & Gifts held its Christmas Extravaganza on December 5. Prizes, refreshments and holiday shopping was enjoyed by attendees. Santa and Mrs. Claus were also available for “Selfies with Santa.”

Jess Sparks, Katie Shepherd, Santa, Lesa Asbille, Courtney Stewart and Claudia Kemp

Brenda Lockhart, Santa and Melinda Howard

Jennifer Satterfield with Santa Nash and Whitley Sturgeon with Santa

Donna Daniel, Jeanne Birge, Regina Flanery and Mindy Preston Charli Holden with Santa

Bella Barber with Santa

Maritza Mendoza with Santa

Lani Childs with Santa

Emersyn Shepherd with Mrs. Claus and Santa

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

OLIVE STREET VINTIQUES

CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE

A Christmas Open House was held at Olive Street Vintiques December 1112. Attendees were able to enjoy holiday shopping while perusing the shop’s new space, located on the second floor of the 1894 City Market at 105 Olive Street. Owners are Sherilyn Cotten, Michael Stephenson and Jennifer Davis.

Brooke Trumble, Haley Lyde, Ashlynne Lipps, Jacobe Reader and Slade Phillips

Whitney Glover and Matt Szymanski

Harold and Marcy Williams

Sydney Rowe, Jordan Rowe and Terri Rowe

Sherilyn Cotten, Michael Stephenson and Jennifer Davis

Tiffanie Leblanc and Micha Poole

Chase Stephenson, Kelly O’Keefe, Aaron Murray, Hudson James, Bri Flanagan and Randall Wade

Jim and Lisa Newton

Micah and Lauren Hubbert

Karen Reavis, Sherilyn Cotten and Robin Robison

photo by DR. ROBIN ROGERS

There’s no place like HOME

by JENNIFER JORDAN

“There’s no place like home.” This oft-quoted line from “The Wizard of Oz” rings true for most. Home can mean different things for different people, but it often exudes comfort, warmth, a place of safety where we can relax and be our true selves. It calls us back, wherever we are. Home doesn’t have to be our place of origin. We can make a home out of anywhere that fits for us.

For Jeff Loving, that home is Texarkana. Raised as a Navy brat by two wonderful parents, Jeff has lived all over the country, an experience that allowed him to taste and learn to cook a variety of cuisines. The influence of his French mother cooking three meals a day inspired him to do the same for other people. “I grew up with her in the kitchen and just loved watching her cook classical French cuisine,” Jeff reminisces. For 16 years, Jeff lived and worked in Texarkana as a chef, caterer, and restaurant partner. In late 2019, Jeff received a business opportunity in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and spent a year there. However, this month, he has returned home to the delight of his clients.

A beloved name and face in Texarkana, Jeff has fed the community his delicious fare in a variety of settings. From Timothy’s Restaurant to Brick House Burgers to Twisted Fork, Jeff has showcased his culinary expertise and versatility in the sit-down venue. He has also taught cooking classes and run a successful catering business, Chef on the Run. For the latter, Jeff creates delicacies for private multi-course dinners, large catered events, and family meals. To the greater Texarkana area, Jeff is known as a professional virtuoso in the kitchen. To his many friends and fans, he is known simply as Cheffrey. One year ago, Jeff wanted to make a change and try something new. He moved to Steamboat Springs to open a restaurant called The Periodic Table. “It wasn’t the best experience,” Jeff remarks. “I went on to be the executive chef for a men’s 90-day rehab facility (Three Strands) until COVID hit.” Jeff was unemployed for a little while, and then chose to open Chef on the Run in Steamboat Springs. “It was extremely hard,” he comments. “I did build up a nice following with my private cheffing, but not constant enough.” While the beauty of Colorado and its fly-fishing spots appealed to him, it was time for Cheffrey to come home.

Jeff will be operating Chef on the Run out of the Collins Home on Olive Street, beginning this month. He is ready to resume life in Texarkana. “When I left, I left behind a lucrative business, good friends, and an environment that I loved. I’m excited to start-up my business again (catering, cooking classes, private dinners). I thought for sure somebody would step in and do it, but COVID-19 has made it a difficult year.”

Jeff’s current plan is to promote family meal pickups at the Collins Home in a COVID-friendly manner. These meals include salad, entrée, sides, rolls,

and a dessert to please a multitude of palates. Jeff would also like to have a booth at the spring bridal expo to showcase catering options. He hopes for a return to normalcy later on in 2021. As he resumes cheffing in Texarkana, Jeff looks forward to the day-to-day aspects of “organizing my craziness, from food prep, getting employees on the same page. and communicating with my clients.” He does recognize the challenges in being self-employed as a chef. “It’s a great job, but it’s a ‘when-needed job.’ It’s not a 9-to-5 job, so it can be challenging but fun.” Jeff emphasizes “trying to make people understand the many facets of running your own business, why I price things a certain way, and all the work that goes into it. I think people forget that. I take pride in what I do and

Fun and engaging, Jeff held this cooking class for friends at Silvermoon on Broad.

have high standards. I love what I do and bring my energy 100% of the time.”

This dedication is how Jeff keeps his clients happy and seeking his food. The comments on Jeff’s Facebook page demonstrate that Texarkana is welcoming him back with open arms and hungry bellies.

Yet, it’s not only creating and cooking meals that has called Jeff home. One of his greatest rewards is the ability to give back to the Texarkana community, from feeding the homeless to giving away food or paintings for fundraisers. It’s important for Jeff to “give back when you can.” He also emphasizes supporting local businesses, the heart of a community.

When not creating menus or cooking, Jeff enjoys fly-fishing for trout and painting abstract art. “I can be pretty lazy when burned out,” he laughs. His favorite meal? Either “my biscuits or gravy or a juicy steak,” he says. Jeff also advocates for young chefs, having been in their shoes. He recommends that they “taste their food and focus on the presentation. Use your passion. Be creative and try everything. Don’t be scared; take chances.”

Jeff has taken a chance of his own to return to a community that he loves, and which loves him in return. He appreciates all the support that Texarkana has given him the past 16 years and looks forward to the future. As we all wish for a happier and healthier year, having Cheffrey home brightens that prospect considerably.

<<< Focusing on the food presentation is a feat that Jeff takes pride in.

Jeff shows off his personal best brown trout that he caught at Miracle Mile in Wyoming.

This cooking class was held at the Collins Home where Jeff will be operating Chef on the Run beginning this month.

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT

ERIC KUSIN, GRANDSON OF TEXARKANA NATIVE, MEL KUSIN, CONTINUES THE FAMILY TRADITION WITH THE DEVIL’S OWN CHILI

The Devil’s Own Chili is the brainchild of Mel Kusin, proud WW2 veteran, Texan, Longhorn, great-grandfather, and (maybe most importantly) chili-master. The story of Mel’s chili began when Mel’s confidence in his own custom blend of chili spices was tested after he judged the 2010 World-Famous Chili Cookoff in Terlingua, Texas. At the age of 86, the young-at-heart Texarkana native realized there was room for improvement, so he set out to refine his proprietary blend of spices. After subjecting family and friends to endless

blind taste tests of chili peppers sourced from all over the southwest, Mel reached chili nirvana, and named his blend, “The Devil’s Own Chili” (named after the Spanish Priests’ nickname for chili, “The Soup of The Devil”). The Devil’s Own Chili quickly became a favorite of Texans, and his brand is sold out of numerous meat shops, specialty markets, and his website www.thedevilsownchili. com. In just two years after being launched, Mel was proud to share that he shipped his chili to customers in over 40 states. Before Mel passed away in 2019, he passed ownership of The Devil’s Own Chili to his grandson, Eric Kusin, who is proud to keep up the family tradition of sharing The Taste of Texas with anyone who wants to enjoy The Soup of The Devil.

with

Mel Kusin

his grandson, Eric, during a sales trip in 2016

Eric Kusin

MOVING FORWARD... FAST

by LINDSEY MCMILLAN

If you wander into Downtown Texarkana these days, it’s likely you will run into Joe Gay, business owner and rancher who stays busy going from one of his establishments to the next. He has been hard at work on a mission to revitalize downtown into a bustling entertainment venue. Joe and his partners were renovating one of them during the start of the pandemic and opened it over the summer. Crossties Event and Wedding Venue of Texarkana is a multi-purpose venue of 37,000 square feet on Broad Street across from Zapata’s. The three buildings which comprise the venue date back to 1899. Moores Furniture Company had occupied the main building since 1962, and Joe and his partners became interested in the property in October 2019, and closed on it in January 2020. Completing the work by themselves, they incorporated the original wood as witnessed by lovely exposed overhead beams throughout. The adjacent green space beside the building is perfect for gathering outdoors with their Frozen Rail train car serving frozen adult beverages each weekend, along with jump houses and other entertainment available for families. Movies are shown during the summer and other seasonal fanfare always present to

BUSINESS OWNER AND RANCHER, JOE GAY, ENJOYS SUPPORTING KIDS, DEVELOPING DOWNTOWN TEXARKANA, AND INVESTING IN LOCAL BUSINESSES

bring Texarkana residents back into downtown to socialize. Joe’s passion for helping downtown goes back to his longtime love of his hometown, one he never anticipates leaving. Joe grew up in Texarkana, Arkansas, with five siblings and attended Liberty-Eylau schools graduating in 2003. Joe makes his work a family affair. Three of his brothers work closely with him on his businesses in town while his father, Thomas Olson, assists him with their ranch just outside of town. The Turkey Creek Ranch has been in the Olson family for several generations, and now the 1,200 acres is home to roughly 350 water buffalo, the largest privately owned herd in the United States. In fact, one of them, named Wilson, makes appearances downtown on occasion for rides up and down Broad Street.

Joe’s brother, Justin Jones, is one of his business partners, as well as good friend, Les Munn. Younger brothers, Scott and Shannon Michael, help at Crossties as well as working with both Joe and Justin’s FedEx franchise which they have owned and managed for over 13 years. When he’s not downtown, Joe is usually at the ranch, working with various business associates, or spending time with his 14-year-old

daughter, Joy. Thankful for friends and family, Joe recalls feeling blessed to have so many opportunities seeing as his upbringing was far from ideal. He credits his mother, Shannon, and dad, Tom, with the support he has needed to succeed. Joe says, “He (Tom) is one of my biggest supporters and the man who has taught me some of the most useful things in my life. My mother even at my age of 35 keeps me in line.”

Since Joe didn’t have many comforts growing up, he finds a passion for helping other children in need. His charity, Hold Onto Your Britches, is in its fourth year and gives disadvantaged local children the opportunity to attend the Four States

Fair every year. With proceeds raised, the number of youth attending each year has gone up. In 2019, 318 children were able to go enjoy the fair wholeheartedly and free of charge with local businessmen and women helping as chaperones. This, in fact, is how he got to know his friend and business partner, Les Munn. An officer with the Texarkana Arkansas Police Department, Les had gotten to know Joe while helping him with his charity. Les says, “Joe has a heart for kids that goes above anything I have ever seen.” Les’s knowledge about downtown and issues regarding city government put him in the perfect spot for collaboration with Joe when their vision came into reality. “It was an idea to jump start a renovation of

On October 3, Joe rode Wilson, the water buffalo, down Broad Street.

Joe faces off with his Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff), Tico, who was imported from Argentina. He flew there, picked up the pet, and flew him back to Texarkana.

downtown and get people involved,” Les says. “Joe has this special grin he gets on his face when he gets ready to do something and when he says, ‘hold on to your britches,’ that’s exactly what he means.”

Joe has also been a generous donor for various FFA scholarships to local agriculture students, having offered 13 with full-ride attendance to local colleges and universities. Joe personally has mentored countless ag students with their 4-H activities by providing feeding, housing, and paying entry fees for those unable to afford it. He makes it a priority to give to others in need, especially disadvantaged youth. Les remarks how his friend has the strongest work ethic due to his upbringing and experience. “Fortunately for us, Joe has an education unlike anyone I have ever seen. He could put most engineers and construction folks scratching their heads. It’s often referred to by people who know him as the South Stateline street education. Joe grew up working for every breath he took and every penny he earned.”

Self-taught in construction, Joe was the primary builder and developer for the Hatridge subdivision in Nash and such skills came in handy as he, Justin, and Les worked tirelessly on the Crossties complex last spring. His enthusiasm and vision are unparalleled. “Joe has a very unique and brilliant imagination that I can’t explain,” Les remarks. “We would discuss projects inside the building, and I couldn’t see his vision for a while, but Joe would say, ‘Just sit back and watch.’ I would come in the next day, and he would have spent all night working a project. The results the next day were just astonishing and beyond anything expected.”

Les also refers to Joe and Justin as his brothers and talks about the impression Joe has made on his young son. “He took to my son like his own, and my 8-yearold considers him his Uncle Joe. I am definitely thankful to both of my brothers, Justin Jones and Joe Gay. There is no person alive like the Mayor of Downtown, Joe Gay.”

Joe is also an amateur sport enthusiast, enjoying alligator hunting as one of his hobbies. He looks forward to yearly alligator and python hunts in Florida and South Louisiana, as well as mudding and showing his daughter how to run the ranch. Spending time with Joy and being her father is the most important thing in his life. “My daughter brings out my happiest side when we are goofing off together and singing,” he admits. “She loves being a part of downtown as well when she is able.”

Joe says his profession is a mixture of rancher, mechanic, delivery driver, construction worker, veterinarian, politician, and psychologist. “I’m a fixer of all problems, big and small. All of my family and friends know that I can and will fix most anything at all. I pride myself on being that person people can depend on.” Of his brother and partner, Justin, Joe says that he is the one person who knows how to keep his crazy ideas in check. Joe definitely has a big vision when it comes to his hometown and developing the most of downtown. In addition

to all that is going on with Crossties, Joe and associates also own B&J’s Diner, 1873 Bar, and have purchased more property with exciting work in progress. “We are 100% invested in the growth and success of downtown,” he concludes. “Our investments have boosted other local businesses as well, and that is what I had hoped for.” When asked how he sees his own future Joe simply replies that he sees a vision of retiring on the ranch and watching the grass grow from his porch. That sounds like a good plan for this Texarkanian who right now is moving forward fast with great things for his hometown.

During the flash flood in Texarkana this past August, Joe helped local fire and police departments evacuate children from their homes.

Joe (third from left) and Les (third from right) purchased Crossties last January. With them are Joe’s parents, Tom and Shannon Olson; Les’ wife and son, Allison and Brodie Munn; and Joe’s sister-in-law and brother, Lanie and Justin Jones.

Joy and Joe on the balcony of Crossties on August 7.

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT

DR. DOUG BRUBAKER NAMED TEXARKANA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS

During a November 10 called meeting of the Texarkana Independent School District Board of Trustees, members unanimously approved the naming of Dr. Doug Brubaker as Lone Finalist for the position of Superintendent of Schools. He was officially named superintendent on December 1, and his start date was January 4.

In his career to date, Dr. Brubaker has served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, department director, assistant superintendent, associate superintendent and superintendent in several school districts in Texas (Birdville ISD, Mansfield ISD, Carroll ISD, Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD,

Dr. Doug Brubaker Garland ISD) and Arkansas (Fort Smith Public Schools.) He has worked in public school districts ranging from approximately 7,000-57,000 students for 24 years. As an administrator, he has guided the implementation of major initiatives including multiple bond programs, 1:1 technology deployments, strategic planning, curriculum updates and security upgrades.

Dr. Brubaker’s commitment to community service is reflected in his involvement in local Chambers of Commerce, disaster relief efforts, and civic organizations. He also brings extensive experience forging strong partnerships between K-12 school districts, institutions of higher education and area businesses in order to expand opportunities for students. On the national level, Brubaker’s involvement in professional organizations includes service on the CoSN Empowered Superintendent Advisory Board and conference presentations on a range of topics.

“Texarkana ISD is an outstanding school district known throughout the region for its innovative and inspiring educational opportunities,” said Dr. Doug Brubaker, Lone Finalist for TISD Superintendent of Schools. “I am very excited about joining TISD as superintendent and learning more about the factors that have contributed to its success. I also look forward to working collaboratively with the district’s Board of Trustees, educators, parents and community members to build on this strong foundation.”

Dr. Brubaker holds a PhD in Educational Computing with a Concentration in Educational Administration from University of North Texas, a Master’s in Elementary Education from Texas Christian University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Kansas. He has taught a variety of subjects including curriculum, instruction and school finance for three universities.

Dr. Brubaker and his wife, Heather, have been married for 22 years and have one daughter who will be a student in the district.

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT

NATALIE REEVES NAMED PRINCIPAL OF PGISD’S MARGARET FISCHER DAVIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

During a special called board meeting of the Pleasant Grove Independent School District Board of Trustees on November 19, Natalie Reeves was approved as principal for the new Margaret Fischer Davis Elementary School which opened for staff and students on November 9. Natalie has been with the district for eight years and has held teaching, intervention, and leadership roles at both the elementary and intermediate levels.

Natalie attended the University of Arkansas, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. She completed a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction, as well as certification in Administration from Texas A&M-Texarkana. She and her husband, Malachi, have one son, Barrett.

The new school is located at 2800 Galleria Oaks, and named after longtime educator and superintendent, Margaret Davis. The school contains 33 classrooms, multi-purpose learning spaces, a media center, gymnasium, and cafeteria.

Natalie Reeves Margaret Fischer Davis Elementary School

VALLERIE KLINGBEIL SHARES HER LIFECHANGING JOURNEY TO HEALTH AND JOY

Where there’s a will... There’s a way!

by VICKI MELDE

Change. It isn’t easy. It can be daunting even to consider a new paint color – will it turn out as envisioned? What if the change demands rethinking your entire lifestyle and setting your mind on a goal that seems too enormous to comprehend, let alone attain. It certainly takes determination that most cannot fathom to achieve a significant weight loss goal – particularly if struggles with weight have been a prevalent part of life as long as can be remembered. So much of our social interaction is centered upon food – yet so much of our health is affected by what we put into our bodies. It is beyond commendable when someone stares this immense challenge in the face and vows to conquer it. Meet Vallerie Klingbeil … A story about Vallerie should not simply focus on her amazing physical transformation. She was quite an accomplished and impressive young woman even at her peak weight of 428 pounds. A campus leader at Texas A&M University-Texarkana, Vallerie was involved in everything and a leader who was respected by her peers. While she didn’t allow concerns regarding her weight to stop her from setting and achieving lofty goals – such as graduating with her Bachelor in Business Administration with a 4.0 GPA in three years – her self-esteem wasn’t where she wanted it to be. She concealed it well, but deep down, she knew that to achieve all her goals, she needed to claim her health and her confidence.

Born in Houston, Vallerie was raised in the Arlington/Mansfield area with siblings Will and Maddie. (She also now has two “bonus/

stepsisters” – Shannon and Melody.) Life revolved around a menagerie of pets they convinced their parents to adopt, and as Vallerie described it – they “ran a zoo” with an aquarium, a turtle, two hamsters, a sugar glider, a cat, a German Shepherd mix, two Mastiffs, and many other pets. No wonder as a young adult with her first apartment of her own, Vallerie immediately sought to adopt a “fur baby” and was matched with her adorable Mia, a Great Pyrenees who is her sidekick and partner in crime.

The highlights of her early years were trips to Six Flags with her mom and sister and going fishing with her dad. “For the most part, I was a studious yet outgoing child. My favorite subject was math, and I cared a lot about making good grades. I was definitely a ‘teacher’s pet’ growing up, and I have even stayed in touch with the majority of my primary school teachers,” Vallerie shared. “I loved reading Nancy Drew books with my childhood best friend, Haley, and we thought we were pretty cool on the ‘Safety Patrol’ helping guard crosswalks for our elementary school.”

No surprise that Vallerie pursued a degree in business – it seems she always exhibited an entrepreneurial spirit. “My favorite memory from elementary school was when Haley and I got caught selling bugs (grasshoppers, butterflies, bumblebees) and bringing cash home without our parents knowing of our little side hustle. We spent our recess catching bugs on the playground, and brought baggies with poked holes to school that we used to transport the bugs

Selena Trejo (Vallerie’s best friend) and other friends from college came to the DFW area to visit with Vallerie in October. At this point, Vallerie had lost a total of 203 pounds.

to our ‘clients.’ I was definitely studious and outgoing, but also a young entrepreneur, if you will.”

During high school, Vallerie also worked multiple jobs. Her first job was as a supervisor at Plato’s Closet. She then worked for Mardel Christian and Education in Arlington while also serving as a mentor and leading groups of elementary school students in an after-school setting at a nonprofit organization – Tarrant County Kids. “I have always loved staying busy and have worked hard to be independent,” Vallerie stated.

After graduation from Mansfield Summit High School in June 2017, Vallerie moved to Texarkana to attend Texas A&M University-Texarkana. It was there that she found her passion for leadership and service. “I found A&M-Texarkana when my high school teacher, Mr. Diaz, had my senior AVID class research colleges on ApplyTexas and apply for at least five colleges for a graded assignment,” she explained. “I applied for a blend of small, medium, and large universities both in and out of Texas. I initially thought I would attend a University in New York that I received a scholarship for, but made my final decision for A&M-Texarkana when I was awarded the Presidential Scholarship. A&M-Texarkana was the best choice for me for many reasons – the campus life, the connections I knew I would make, and the business program I had my eye on.”

Vallerie immersed herself in campus life at A&M-Texarkana – in her academic career, student organizations, and professional positions on campus. As a Student Ambassador, Vallerie represented the university at a multitude of university and community events and honed her public speaking skills. She also served as a First Year Experience coach, Resident Advisor, Orientation Leader, Business Office student worker, and full-time Financial Specialist – all while maintaining that perfect 4.0 GPA. “One of my favorite college experiences was directing The Big Event (A&M-Texarkana’s annual large-scale community service project to give back to the Texarkana community) and leading smaller community service projects throughout the years for students and staff,” Vallerie

recalled. “I was a member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society, Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society, founding member of Sigma Alpha Omega Christian sorority, and Vice President of the Student Government my sophomore year.

“I love the Eagle family. I may have only spent three years in Texarkana, but my time there was ‘twice as nice’ as it would’ve been anywhere else,” Vallerie said. “I didn’t just earn a piece of paper saying I should be given a job; I built relationships to last a lifetime, learned lessons that helped pave my future, and enhanced the overall quality of my life.”

The quality of Vallerie’s life was enhanced immeasurably by a decision she made in the summer of 2019. “I have always been pretty confident, but I would say my self-esteem wasn’t the best. I first tried to lose weight when I was 15 years old and weighed 312 pounds, and I successfully lost 70 pounds at that point getting to an all-time low of 242 pounds my sophomore year of high school (Fall 2014). Thanksgiving 2014 came around, and I literally lost all motivation to keep losing weight. Food can be an addiction, and when you get

As the Student Director of The Big Event during college, Vallerie had the opportunity to go to the One Big Thanks national conference with Michael Stephenson, Jarrell Lawrence, and Selena Trejo in October 2018.

Vallerie (far left) during a T-Mobile check presentation for The Big Event last January. She had lost approximately 130 pounds at this time. Pictured with her are TAMU-T President Dr. Emily Cutrer, university staff, Student Ambassadors, and other members of The Big Event board.

in the habit of eating what you want to eat when you want to eat it, it’s hard to break that habit. When I lost that motivation, it took me five years to get to a high of 428.4 pounds as of June 2019. I visited my ob-gyn in Texarkana, and she expressed her concern for my health and suggested I talk to someone about a plan. When we had that conversation, I kind of snapped out of the mindset that nothing was wrong. I knew I had been gaining weight, and I knew I wasn’t making healthy decisions. I was 20 years old at the time, and I hated the way I not only looked, but how I felt. I’ve always been a generally positive and confident person, but in June of that year I decided I would come up with a plan and start really turning my life around the next month. July came around, and I did just that.”

In a year and a half, Vallerie has lost 213 pounds. 213 pounds! For those looking for a magic bullet or quick fix, Vallerie would hastily respond that it doesn’t exist. “I had to change literally everything about my health for this journey – my portions, increase protein/water intake, decrease carbs/calories/ fat, etc. I had to start counting macros and meal prepping, logging everything I ate even if it was just an almond or a small bite of something,” Vallerie explained.

A strong support system is vital to making life changes, and Vallerie certainly benefitted from family, friends, and coworkers who encouraged and motivated her every step of the way. She also had a personal way of keeping herself focused. “I’d buy an outfit I knew would fit a little too small. When that outfit fit, and I lost more weight, I’d do it again. Eventually, my sizes changed too often so I stopped buying new clothes all the time, but I always looked forward to fitting into the outfit I had sitting in my closet waiting for me. I also took a lot of progress pictures and occasionally posted them to social media. Whenever I did, the support I got from friends and family in the comments and through my messages always helped pick back up my motivation if it started to deter.”

With success has come balance and wisdom. “I don’t feel bad about messing

up and eating something unhealthy once in a while now. I used to beat myself up if I messed up or I’d let myself mess up for days in a row and eventually give up on losing weight. Now, when I eat something I shouldn’t, I get right back to eating how I should the next meal, and I don’t let the setback faze me.”

The young woman who was always a leader but didn’t choose to call attention to herself now describes herself as “ambitious, passionate, and SASSY!” She often finds herself repeatedly using the phrase “if there’s a will, there’s a way.” “Whether I want to do something simple or have a big dream to accomplish, I remember this quote and find a way to get it done. I used this quote for getting through my licensing exams at work, getting through college, losing weight, etc.”

After graduation in May 2020, Vallerie returned to the DFW metroplex to be closer to her family. She is now a licensed stock broker with Fidelity Investments. With her remote work environment due to COVID-19, Mia is her constant companion. “She has brought so much joy (and maybe a little stress) into my life,” Vallerie quipped. “It’s just me and her all day, every day, and she actually helps with my weight loss journey as well by making me take her on 8+ walks/runs a day. She is a wild one for sure, but she is my partner in crime (and my partner in waking all of our neighbors up at 4 a.m. everyday)!”

Vallerie welcomes 2021 from a very good place – but, as might be expected from this driven and dynamic young woman, she already has new goals set and a plan to achieve them. Vallerie begins work on her MBA thru A&MTexarkana’s online program this month with plans to complete it by December 2021. She has also committed to losing an additional 40 pounds and having surgery to remove the resulting extra skin once she’s reached her ultimate goal. She hopes, one day, to meet her “Prince Charming” and have a family of her own – and another pup for her and Mia to love. She has proven to herself there is nothing she can’t conquer.

Embrace your future, beautiful Vallerie … you will make it awesome!

During June 2019, Vallerie (left) and other TAMU-T Student Ambassadors visited with Land Commissioner George P. Bush. This photo was taken one week before she started her weight loss journey, while at her highest weight.

Being “Aunt Val” to her nieces and nephews is definitely one of Vallerie’s favorite titles.

This past September, Vallerie spent a weekend in Broken Bow with her puppy, Mia. At this point, Vallerie had lost 190 pounds.

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT

SEN. JIMMY HICKEY ELECTED PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE OF THE ARKANSAS SENATE

During November, Sen. Jimmy Hickey, R-Texarkana, was elected as the next Senate president pro tempore for the upcoming 93rd General Assembly during an organizational meeting of the Arkansas Senate. Sen. Hickey represents District 11, which includes Texarkana, and has served in the Senate since 2013 He will serve in this new role from 2021-23. The Arkansas Legislative session will convene January 11 and adjourn March 12, 2021.

A native of Texarkana, Sen. Hickey received his Bachelor of Business Administration from East Texas State University. He and his wife, Denise, have one son and are members of Trinity Baptist Church.

Sen. Jimmy Hickey

& Callie Beckham Jared Brown

August 8, 2020 - Texarkana, AR Crossties Event and Wedding Venue

Shana Andrade Photography

SHARING THE LOVE

My favorite part about the wedding/engagement was simply all of our closest friends and family being there to love and support us. We both love and appreciate our families so much, so it meant the world to us for them to be there.

A LONG-DISTANCE ROMANCE

We met while I was living in Oklahoma. I was in Occupational Therapy Assistant school, and Jared was living in Texarkana. Our actual first encounter was via social media! We dated long distance for about three years.

HEART TO HEART

Jared proposed in a simple sweet way. We were riding around on a beautiful property by the river. We started walking by the river, and he turned and proposed.

WE BELONG TOGETHER

The wedding planning began quickly. It was a little challenging because I was still living in Oklahoma, and the wedding was taking place in Texarkana, not to mention the challenges of the pandemic. We chose Crossties Event and Wedding Venue because of the rustic feel.

DREAMS DO COME TRUE

Currently, we are living in Texarkana. Jared is working at Arkansas High, and I am anticipating starting my career as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).

Wedding Venue: Crossties Event and Wedding Venue

Reception: Crossties Event and Wedding Venue

Cake Designer/Florist: Heavenly Sweets

Caterer: TaMolly’s Mexican Kitchen

Photographer: Shana Andrade Photography

VIDEOgrapher: Eric’s Xtreme Video

Rentals: Dot’s Rentals & Sales

Deejay: Sam O’Donnell

Jeweler: Alexander’s Jewelers

wedding coordinator: Stacey Black

Bobby Brunner

& Shea Smith

october 31, 2020 - texarkana, TX

SACRED HEART CATHOLIC

CHURCH

gareth patterson Photos

BACK TO WHERE THE ADVENTURE BEGAN

I met Bobby at Notre Dame, where we both went to college. It’s one of our favorite places, and he took me back there to get engaged. It was special to bring a little bit of ND to our wedding, including our pup, Finny (named after our favorite ND bar).

planning during a pandemic

Planning a wedding during a pandemic was a crazy and unforgettable experience. We had to postpone our original wedding in May, and then cut back our celebration to only include our families and wedding party.

SHE SAID “YES!”

Despite the change of plans, we had the best day! We learned to roll with things, and the day turned out better than we could have imagined.

A CELEBRATION OF LOVE

So many of our friends and family, physically and virtually, made us feel so celebrated. When we look back, I think this is one of the things we will remember the most!

happily ever after

We are so excited to be married and start this next chapter of our lives together!

& Shea Smith Bobby Brunner

Wedding Venue: Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Reception: Texarkana Country Club

Cake Designer: Julie’s Deli

Florist: Kyle Barrett

Photographer: Gareth Patterson Photos

Videographer: Eric EthridgeEric’s Xtreme Video

rentals: Kyle Barrett

Jeweler: Dubin’s Fine Jewelry and Jensen Jewelers

SEBASTIAN “MO” FILIMOEHALA

&NATALIE ANN JAMES

June 6, 2020

Family home on the cossatot river

Britt Elizabeth Photography

THE PACIFIC MEETS THE SOUTH

Mo and I first met while we were working at an industrial gas supply company in Shreveport, Louisiana. It wasn’t until a couple of years later at a mutual friend’s house that Mo approached me while I was eating a batch of freshly-boiled spicy crawfish. Mo grew up in Hawaii where the food tends to be a bit more sweet than spicy, which meant he wasn’t the biggest fan of crawfish or spice in general. Regardless of that, he picked up several pieces of crawfish and began eating them with me. I can remember how his face started to sweat from the heat of the spice, but he kept eating them just so he could talk to me. It was incredibly sweet, and now spicy crawfish is one of his favorite foods.

SURPRISE ENGAGEMENT

Mo and I had planned to spend Mother’s Day weekend 2019 at our family’s cabin on the Cossatot River. I was really looking forward to it as Mo and I didn’t get to spend many weekends together, so on our way from Shreveport to Texarkana, Mo got a call that he needed to go into work. I was very disappointed, and Mo dropped me off in Texarkana, and I went to the cabin without him. When I arrived, there was a large screen set up inside playing video excerpts of our closest friends holding up signs that said, “Say yes.” When the video was over, I walked outside to find him dressed very sharp and standing on the dock by the river. As I approached him, he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. Little did we know that over a year later we’d be saying “I do” in that same exact spot.

PLANS COME FULL CIRCLE

We originally planned to wed in San Francisco the summer of 2020, but I found out I was pregnant in December of 2019 so we moved the wedding to Dallas to keep things easier. Then the pandemic hit forcing the city of Dallas to shut down, so we came up with the idea of getting married at our family’s cabin where we became engaged. We were wed by our friend whose crawfish boil began our relationship, and we were photographed by our dear friend who took our surprise proposal pictures in 2019. It was all very meaningful and special in the way it turned out.

CREATING A CULTURAL MIX OF TEXAS AND HAWAII

Flowers, food, and photography were a few pieces of my wedding puzzle that I wanted to be perfect. For flowers, we used H&N Floral, Gifts & Garden. And oh, my goodness, our flowers were amazing! My parents surprised me with a beautifully-designed floral archway that I walked under before meeting Mo on the deck to say our vows. H&N lined the pathway I walked down with the most beautiful arrangements. I had all of our leis flown in from Hawaii the day before our wedding. We had a very Texan/ Polynesian food spread of fresh fruits and Spam to tacos and Topo Chico. We had our talented friend who is a professional photographer capture the most beautiful pictures that I revisit frequently to remind myself of our beautiful day.

A wedding to remember

We had originally planned a wedding of around 100 but ended up with a wedding of less than 20 due to COVID-19. It was a bummer for Mo to not have his Hawaii and California family attend, but we had someone in the audience FaceTime his parents and siblings so they could feel included. We also wanted to be cautious due to my pregnancy, so our close family friend who is a Nurse Practitioner administered COVID tests to all who were in attendance. Never in a million years did I think this would be my dream wedding, but that’s exactly what it turned out to be.

& NATALIE ANN JAMES SEBASTIAN “MO” FILIMOEHALA

Wedding Venue: Family Home on the Cossatot River

Reception: Family Home on the Cossatot River

Cake: Sofia Mondragon

Florist: Jill Hoover at H&N Floral, Gifts and Garden; Bennie Phillips designed the arch

Caterer: Katie Feeback

Photography: Britt Elizabeth Photography

Rentals: Dot’s Rentals & Sales

musician: Sione Maumalanga played the ukulele.

Jeweler: Alexander’s Jewelers

Honeymoon: Because of COVID, the Filimoehalas chose to hold off on air travel and instead, took a Texas honeymoon. They drove to the WahWahtaysee Resort in Kingsbury, Texas, for a couple of nights then went to Gruene, and ended it in Austin by eating at their favorite restaurants and food trucks. They plan to travel by air to Hawaii or Mexico this year for a proper honeymoon.

& Brooke Raney Justin

Fitts

august 15, 2020 - texarkana, TX

A Friends’ home

Photography: Kendal Dockery Thompson

BACK TO OUR ROOTS

In April of 2019, we got engaged in Exuma, Bahamas. We were all set to plan a destination wedding for March of 2020! Little did we know what 2020 would bring and that we wouldn’t actually get married for another year, four months, and three date changes later. Even though we had planned for a destination wedding, Justin and I were so excited to have our wedding in the town in which I was raised and so close to where he was raised (Linden, Texas). The ceremony was held less than a mile from our future home site.

celebrating with those we love

We finally had our dream wedding August 15, with the most incredible views in Texarkana as our backdrop. There was a heat advisory that day, so it felt just like we were in Mexico! Celebrating with close friends and family made our wedding perfect, as we were able to celebrate with loved ones who would not have been able to make our destination wedding.

The Cocktail-19 is coined

My brother-in-law created a signature drink that he coined “COCKTAIL-19, a jalapeño-infused margarita. It was a crowd pleaser for sure. It has now become a staple at family gatherings.

heart to heart

Our friends graciously offered their home and barndominium as our venue. We are forever grateful to them for opening up their home and barn on such short notice. Justin and I couldn’t have picked better hosts or a prettier spot for our special day.

officially mr. and mrs.

Our dear friend, John Crisp, officiated our wedding. We wanted this to be someone we love and respect. John is known for being an excellent speaker and eloquent with words. He did not disappoint.

Wedding Venue: A friends’ home

Reception: A friends’ home

Cake: Maddie Cakes

Florist: Bennie Phillips

Caterer: Marjorie Slimer

Photographer: Kendal Dockery Thompson

Rentals: Dot’s Rentals & Sales

band: Chasing Rita

Jeweler: Micah’s Jewelers

Honeymoon: Turks and Caicos

Kayleb Hoffman

& Rachel Freeman

July 11, 2020 - simms, tx

TREE HAVEN

Leo + Wilder Photography

the beginning

Kayleb and I met in 2015, and we both have always said that we knew we loved each other the first time we met. We have been together every day since unless Kayleb was out of town working. Within two weeks of meeting we were “Facebook official.”

starting our family

Six months into our relationship, we decided we wanted a family, and in August of 2017, our baby boy, Kayson Brooks, came into the world.

planning their dream wedding

We got engaged on Father’s Day in 2018 and started planning for the wedding of my dreams. I planned to have our wedding in May of 2020, and we ended up having to move the date to July 11, 2020. I couldn’t push it any further because we had to move to Little Rock for me to begin the Dental Hygiene program at UAMS in August.

Happily ever hoffman

Our wedding day was everything I had ever dreamed about. Even though we got married in the middle of a worldwide pandemic and weren’t able to have some of our family members and friends there with us, we were able to celebrate with most of our closest of family and friends. It was just so perfect. I’m so grateful and overjoyed that it was all able to take place. Also, I couldn’t be more thankful for all of the people that helped it all come together.

spontaneous honeymoon

We didn’t plan a honeymoon due to the uncertainty in the world. At the last minute, we decided to take a spontaneous trip to Colorado and just drive until we found somewhere we wanted to stop! First was Durango, then Silverton, Telluride, and Ouray was our last stop of our weeklong honeymoon! We saw all the sights, went white water rafting in a kayak, went on an 8-hour ATV excursion through the trails of the Rocky Mountains. We also ate all the best food everywhere we went!

Wedding Venue: Tree Haven

Reception: Tree Haven

Cake Designer: Sugar Mill Bakery & Events

Florist: The Flowerroom Florist & Gifts

Caterer: On the Border

Photographer: Leo + Wilder Photography

Videographer: Leo + Wilder Photography

Rentals: Dot’s Rentals and Sales

Deejay: Wes Spicher

Jeweler: Crocker’s Jewelers

honeymoon: Durango, Silverton, Telluride, and Ouray, Colorado

& Victoria Brooks Shawn Owens

September 6, 2020 - simms, TX tree haven photographer - makayla jones

FIRST FRIENDSHIP ... THEN ROMANCE

Shawn grew up in Queen City, Texas, and I grew up in Texarkana, Texas. Shawn’s brother, Lucas, introduced us in the summer of 2016, and we became good friends. On Valentine’s Day Eve in 2018 our friendship turned into a romance. Shortly after, our relationship with each other was further strengthened by letters and phone calls we exchanged during Shawn’s months of Naval Reserve training, first in Illinois and then in California. We had our first vacation at Port Hueneme Naval Base.

ENGAGED THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS

I said yes to “THE” question on December 23, 2019. We had great fun sharing and celebrating our engagement throughout the holidays. Immediately after the engagement, the wedding planning was on.

A CELEBRATION OF LOVE

When we toured Tree Haven, we knew that it was the venue where we wanted to celebrate with our family and friends. Our service and reception were filled with laughter, tears, so many memories, and, of course, good food.

SUNDAY IN SEPTEMBER

The challenges of planning a wedding and a reception in the year 2020 were numerous, but ultimately, we had a fabulous time on a warm Sunday afternoon in early September.

THE NEW JOURNEY BEGINS

After the wedding, Shawn and I relocated to Pittsburg, Texas, to start our new journey together.

Wedding Venue: Tree Haven

Reception: Tree Haven

Cake: Graham Slam Bakery

Florist: The Flowerroom Florist & Gifts

Caterer: Main Street Café

Photographer: Makayla Jones

Rentals: Dot’s Rentals & Sales

Deejay: Fabienne Thrash

wedding coordinator: Janet Cox

Jeweler: Crocker’s Jewelers

photobooth: PhotoBomb TXK

& HALEY HERRINGTON RANDY ROESER

February 29, 2020 - San Francisco San Francisco City hall

Eichar Photography

RANDY AND HALEY RECONNECT

Randy and I had actually met a few times over the years, but it wasn’t until May 2018 that we reconnected at the Clay’s Golf & Guitars fundraiser. We laugh about it now, but we both were truly convinced that the other wasn’t interested. We stayed in touch, but it wasn’t until a few weeks later that we really hit it off.

THE REST IS HISTORY

I had driven back in town for a friend’s wedding, and there was a nice break between the ceremony and reception. I made plans to meet up with a few friends and have a drink before the reception, one of those friends being Randy. When I got to the restaurant, Randy was the only one who had shown up. We laughed and talked, and everything just seemed to fit. When I was getting ready to leave, I asked him if he wanted to go to the wedding with me (I had already RSVP’d a plus one). His response, “Do you want me to go to this wedding or take you on a date when you come back in town next week?” I looked at him point blank and said, “Both.” The rest, as they say, is history!

A SURPRISE PROPOSAL

Randy proposed to me in Fort Worth, Texas, on Groundhog Day 2019. I had just finished coaching in a basketball tournament, and I was less than enthused with my third place trophy. I wanted to stay in, but Randy got dressed up for a night on the town. It was on the 14th floor of the Omni Hotel that he dropped to one knee and asked me to marry him. I was shocked and had no idea it was coming. I thought we were just headed up to some rooftop bar for a cocktail. He’s a smooth talker.

FALLING IN LOVE IN SAN FRANCISCO

San Francisco was the perfect marriage destination for us. It was also the first place we both wholeheartedly agreed upon. We fell in love in that city, and it only made sense to say our vows there as well.

A DAY TO REMEMBER

We had an intimate ceremony at San Francisco City Hall surrounded by our family and closest friends, followed by a great dinner and reception at the Cliff House Restaurant. It was such a special day, filled with laughter and love, and I couldn’t have asked for anything more.

Wedding Venue: San Francisco City Hall

Reception: Cliff House Restaurant

Florist: S&V Collections

Caterer: Cliff House Restaurant

wedding planner: Small Shindigs

Photographer: Eichar Photography

Band: Busta-Groove

Jeweler: Bachendorf’s

honeymoon: Paris, France, Madrid, Spain, and Geneva, Switzerland

photo by DR. ROBIN ROGERS

Hard Work Equals Forward Progress

ELIZABETH AND DR. ERIK JACOBSEN

ENJOY OWNING BUSINESSES AND KEEPING THEIR FAMILY ON THE GO

by LISA PORTERFIELD THOMPSON

In 2019, Elizabeth Jacobsen was nominated by her peers and selected by Four States Living Magazine as one of the Fabulous 40 under 40, and since that nomination she has been a very busy lady. In 2019, she told FSLM that she had always dreamed of owning her own business, and today she is not only doing that, but remodeling and expanding and making more progress than even she ever imagined. Happily married to Dr. Erik Jacobsen, Elizabeth is working hard while keeping her busy family moving and even finds the opportunity to relax and enjoy her free time.

Eternal Beauty Medical Aesthetics on Summerhill Road is owned by Elizabeth and Erik. The interior is a calm and soothing space, with captivating fixtures, intriguing aromatherapy lingering in the air, friendly faces behind the desk, a peaceful waterfall sound in the background, and tons of services to help clients be the best possible version of themselves. Since the environment is so peaceful, upon entry, customers would never know there is a full-blown construction project happening in the back of the business.

“I wanted to open up a medical spa, because honestly, it’s more fun than working in a clinical or hospital setting,” Elizabeth explains. Before opening Eternal Beauty, she worked in CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System’s emergency room for several years.

Elizabeth knows what it means to work her way up in the medical profession. She graduated from Atlanta High School in 2004, and soon after began her education at Texarkana College in the LVN program.

Eternal Beauty Medical Aesthetics held its Grand Opening on August 10, 2019, and is located at 5510 Summerhill Road.

She then became an RN, and eventually earned a master’s degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Walden University. She worked in the Emergency Department, and it was there that she decided to take her career down a different path. “I wanted to own a business of my own,” she said. “And since we already owned one business in Texarkana, it made sense that we would open Eternal Beauty right here. Texarkana is a good place to raise a family, for the kids to grow up and go to school.”

Erik is a co-owner of Texarkana Emergency Center, right down the road from Eternal Beauty Medical Aesthetics. TEC is a free-standing emergency center and hospital that just went through a major expansion project itself, and the couple admits all the changes have come fast. “We are adding services to help better serve our customers,” Elizabeth said. “We are putting in a huge water therapy area and adding an infrared sauna. We already do so many facial massages and offer services more on the medical side of things that we think our customers really need an area for relaxation and destressing. People really respond well to those types of services here in Texarkana. It should be ready by February.”

Eternal Beauty opened in August of 2019, and the busy practice has done nothing but grow since that date. Services offered include BOTOX®, lifts, threading, facials, massages, peels, infusions, needling, microblading, fibroblasting, tightening, medically-assisted weight loss, PlasmaSculpt, laser hair and spider vein removal, vitamin therapy, CoolSculpting®, and more.

“I love my career in medical aesthetics,” Elizabeth said. “The beauty, health, and wellness industry is ever expanding. We all want to look and feel our best, and I have travelled the country and internationally to research the latest technology and techniques. I have brought them all here to Eternal Beauty Medical Aesthetics.”

The Jacobsens love staying on the go with their children: Abbygale (18), Emily (14), and Jaxon (8).

Elizabeth admits that owning her own business does have its challenges. She said the business management side of things is not her favorite. “The business side of things is definitely the hardest part,” she said. “I like what I do, but that’s not what I went to school for.”

When asked about working with her spouse, Elizabeth had nothing but positive things to say. “He just helps, when I’m overwhelmed or overworked. He offers tattoo removal and hormone replacement therapy,” Elizabeth said. “I love having him here. A physician on-site is a very good thing for a business like this.”

While the business is good and busy, Erik and Elizabeth also have a busy home life to manage. Their three children are each involved in activities and extracurricular activities that keep their schedules full. Abbygale is 18 and graduated from Pleasant Grove High School last year. Emily is 14, Jaxon is 8, and they both attend Red Lick schools. “I waited until Abby could drive to start the business,” Elizabeth explains, “so that helps some. But still, they keep me busy and we are always on the go.”

As for free time, Elizabeth remarks that there is not much to be had. When the family does have time, they like to go to the lake, and spend time together.

Owning her own business is a goal that Elizabeth has always dreamed of seeing to fruition.

Elizabeth and her husband, Erik, work hard to balance work life and home life.

EXQUISITE

TRANQUIL. PRISTINE. IMPECCABLE.

INTERIORS

It comes as no surprise that Emily and Gabe Tarr chose this perfect location in Pleasant Grove to build their new 4 bedroom, 3-1/2 bath transitional home. They enjoy sitting on their screenedin porch watching the deer frolic and play around their nine wooded acres. Surrounded by grassy lawns and a pond, this tranquil home, built by Dennis Salisbury Cabinets & Construction, is nestled amongst many trees and feels very private while tucked away from everything.

The open concept layout of the home and the tall ceilings throughout create a classic feel as guests step into the foyer. To the right of the foyer sits the formal dining room which houses a Herend china collection along with relics saved from the Tarrs’ previous home that was destroyed by fire. Many sentimental pieces showcase Gabe’s Hungarian roots. The powder room to the left of the foyer contains unique wrought iron wall sconces, shaved cork walls, a beautiful bowl lavatory, and a heated bidet seat with remote control. A built-in nook at the end of the hallway holds mementoes from the Tarrs’ travels.

A tranquil and relaxed feel is evident in the master en suite. With a warm color palette and subtle décor, the four poster bed is complete with bedding in shades of red and cream. Large windows offer the perfect scenic views of the pond from the comfortable sitting area. The unique bath features radiant heated floors and four-foot tiles in the shower. His and hers lavatories and closets finish up this spa retreat.

In the hallway, a barn door from the Tarrs’ farm leads into the laundry room. A built-in kennel keeps crates out of the way and

gives the pets their very own private spot. This room has plenty of storage and light which helps the mundane chore of doing laundry seem a little less of a burden.

Theatre seating in the media room provides maximum comfort while watching a movie on TV or enjoying the football game. A quaint wet bar is the perfect place to entertain guests. Pullout liquor cabinets and wine storage racks add to the functionality of the space. Refurbished pendant lights hang over the bar, once belonging to the house previously located on the property before the Tarrs built their new residence.

The open, modern kitchen features a dish drawer, ample cabinets for storage, and stainless steel appliances. The kitchen island provides a spacious prep area as well as the perfect space for serving and entertaining.

The traditional family room features a large stone fireplace, numerous bookcases, and sky-high ceilings with large wooden trusses. Colorful artwork combines with a neutral color palette to provide just the right combination.

Stacked stone and rustic lumber house the main living areas while a covered outdoor living space features an outdoor kitchen and cozy seating areas, perfect for both entertaining or relaxing.

If this home could speak, it would tell tales of travel, family, and experiences, indicative of the busy lives that Emily and Gabe have lived. The feel of the country, combined with the conveniences of the city, is what this fun couple has admired and loved about living in this beautiful showplace. They look forward to 2021 and seeing what the future holds for them in their exquisite new home.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

UNSUNG HEROES OF TEXARKANA APPRECIATION LUNCHEON

The Unsung Heroes of Texarkana Appreciation Luncheon, hosted by First Baptist Church Texarkana, was held December 18. Lunch was served to those who provide services to the community, including firefighters, police officers, school maintenance workers, postal workers and city officials.

Joanne Upton and Carol Fisher

Brian Hughes and Kane DeLoach

Sgt. Devin Warner, Det. Kayla Berry, Det. Nathan Pearson and Det. Josh Jones Quinn Stanfill, Ricky Harrington and Gordon Wells

Mike Turnage, Wayne Foster, Mark Clark and Theo Martin

Billy Foote, Donato Antoine, Richard Canida, Nathan Ahrens and Terry Morrison

Stephanie Bright, Amanda Huffer, Theresa Hilton and Bethani Floyd

Jeanette Tramel and William Oswald

William Oswald and Holly Reed Jim Rutledge and George Speer

Bryan Bixler, Tracy Vella, James Cook and Judge Craig Henry

Alex Tipton, Dr. Fred Hutcheson and Don Gibson Marcus Bellamy and Dr. Jeff Schreve

Sue Scudder, Sherry Philyaw, Betty Rateliff and Sharon Wilson

Robert Henderson, Walter Buchanan and Ryan Baird

Annell Langdon, Norma Rowe, Annette Estes and Harriette Tidwell

Barbara Turner, Gordon Wells, Olin Adams, Andy Moore and Marguerite Thacker

Ask the

Experts

JOEY MARTIN Owner, Express Employment Professionals

How Do You Build Employee Engagement?

We’re currently in a job seeker’s market, and those with the right mix of skills and expertise have found they are able to be more selective about where they work as businesses struggle to recruit top talent to fill open job positions. Employee engagement and retention have become more important than ever before for companies striving to maintain a workforce that drives creativity and innovation.

Here are a few quick tips for creating a stronger sense of project ownership in employees.

1. Set expectations from the beginning 2. Empower them to make decisions

3. Give recognition

4. Give them a voice in the planning process

How do you create a sense of ownership among your employees?

870.773.1313

CARRIE TRUSTY

Director of Marketing, Cornerstone Healthy Living Community

How does community living support successful aging?

One of the best reasons to live in a retirement community is the opportunity to stay well in body, mind, and spirit. With access to a wellness center as well as fitness classes, Cornerstone’s residents will find it convenient and fun to exercise with friends. Physical wellness is also supported with well-balanced, chef-prepared meals. Cornerstone’s Chaplain Ministry promotes spiritual wellness while a large selection of life enriching opportunities keep the mind sharp and active. All in all, many seniors find that community living allows them to better achieve their goals for successful aging.

THE ROAD Tra veled less

BY NICHOLE HOLZE

Plan a little escape for the new year!

It’s here. Sometimes it felt like it would never get here, but it’s finally arrived. 2021, it’s really great to see you. We are looking forward to what you have in store for us. It’s certainly bound to be better.

Every year, right at the beginning when it’s fresh and new, our family sits down to do a check in and cast a vision. It’s often while we are hiking on January 1 to ring in the new year in the fresh air. Making this vision casting a part of our family routine has become a beautiful thing, and it’s even more fun when we bring our children in to be a part of it. This last year has been the strangest one yet, and we are looking forward to moving into 2021 with a fresh perspective, no matter what is ahead.

A great way to invite your family into this vision casting is to plan a little escape to make it special. One way to make it magical: book a glamping experience with Ouachita Wilde Luxury Tents. Run by the dynamic mother/daughter duo, Stacie and Maddie, the entire business is top-notch. What sets them apart is that they will take care of everything, and I do mean everything. They selected a beautiful campsite for us on Denby Point (Lake Ouachita) and set up the tent. We arrived to the most welcoming camping experience, complete with logs for the fire, fire starters, chairs around the fire pit, twinkle lights, and a beautifully decorated tent. Inside the tent were games of all

kinds, a coffee pot with cups, an electric fireplace, and cute Bohemian-themed décor. Ouachita Wilde offers several packages for your glamping experience, and they can customize the setup based on your needs. Our bell tent had a (very comfortable) queen size bed and two, twin size beds for our children. The tent comes with an electric heater and a safe propane heater, so the chill of winter shouldn’t be a worry. Don’t have camp cooking supplies? Don’t worry! They can provide those, too. All you need to bring is food and your sense of adventure. The tents can be set up in a 60-mile radius (give or take a few miles) from the Mena area.

This winter, start your year with a little unplugged family time as you dream, plan, laugh, and cast up your hopes for 2021.

You can find out more on Instagram at @ ouachitawilde_luxurytents, on Facebook, or on their website at www.ouachitawilde.com.

Never afraid of a long drive, Nichole is a homeschooling mom to two and wife to Ryan. Coffee, always, and black please. You can probably find her scheming up their next road trip while hiking in the woods. Experience-based learning and good books abound in their homeschool, as they chase the spark of curiosity where it wanders on the road less traveled.

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT

JUSTIN WHITE AND ROBERT IRWIN RECEIVE ADVANCEMENTS WITHIN GUARANTY BANK & TRUST

Guaranty Bank & Trust’s Robert Irwin and Justin White recently received advancements within the company. Robert was promoted to Bowie County Area Chairman, and Justin was named Texarkana Market President. Both have extensive banking experience and are very invested in the Texarkana community.

Robert began his career at Guaranty Bank & Trust in 2001, where he served as the President of the Texarkana Market since 2009. He has 25 years of banking and lending experience.

A Texarkana native, Justin graduated from Texas High School and Texas A&M University-Texarkana. He has been a Texarkana banker for over 20 years and joined Guaranty Bank & Trust in 2013.

EVENTS | CALENDAR

JANUARY 2021

JANUARY 2

The Texarkana Museums System will present “Equal But Separated: Desegregation of Texarkana Public Schools” from 11 a.m. to 12 noon at the Museum of Regional History. Guest speaker, Katherine Anne Doan, will present findings from her research on the desegregation of Texarkana public schools. Cost is $5 per person. Call 903793-4831 for more information or email: morh@texarkanamuseums.org.

JANUARY 9

The Texarkana Museums System will host activities at Discovery Place in celebration of Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary. Fun activities will be held honoring all of the great things that take place at “the greatest place on earth.” Call 903-793-4831 for more information, or visit: www.texarkanamuseums.org.

THROUGH JANUARY

9

“Chasing Feathers: Standing Still,” photographs by a nature lover and selfprofessed bird nerd, will be displayed in the Regional Arts Center on the first floor. Artist Julie Tidwell admits that she finds peace and calm behind the lens of a camera, and she approaches photography as a journalist, with intent, but open to where the story takes her.

Hours for the exhibit are ThursdaySaturday, 12 noon to 4 p.m. Masks and social distancing are required for entry.

JANUARY 16

Since this is the 50th anniversary of the Texarkana Museums System, fun activities are scheduled to celebrate the year 1971. Crafts of the decade will take place in the Ace of Clubs House with macramé, latch hook, and model car creations. Call 903-793-4831 for more information, or visit: www. texarkanamuseums.org.

JANUARY 23

A 1971 FBI Break-in Murder Mystery Dinner Party will be held in the P.J Ahern House. Hosted by the Texarkana Museums System, the event will kick off at 6:30 p.m., and cost is $35 for TMS members and $40 for couples. Advance registration is required. Call 903-7934831 for more information, or visit: www.texarkanamuseums.org.

JANUARY 23

“The Music of John Williams” will be performed by the Texarkana Symphony Orchestra beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the Perot Theatre. An evening of music from some of the most-beloved movies, by the world’s most prolific film composer of all time will be performed. Call the Perot Theatre Box office to purchase tickets at: 903-792-4992.

Justin White and Robert Irwin

A Pinch of Salt

by Donnie Spriggs

We did it, we did it! We made it through 2020, one of the hardest years most of us have ever experienced. As we move forward keeping our heads held high and looking for positivity, let’s make sure our stomachs stay full!

Trying new things can be iffy sometimes. You constantly think, “I’m not doing that or where do I find that?” 99.9% of recipes I give are either my own or ones I have put a twist on and have cooked myself. My employees LOVE that I have started this column due to the fact they get to taste and eat everything I make. I guess it is a win/win for my small group of readers and for my employees.

I am sure you’re expecting something healthy in this month’s reading considering it is January and this is when we are all supposed to be eating healthy and whatnot. But, the joke’s on you because there is nothing healthy happening here!

This month we are going Tex-Mex a little with meatballs. These meatballs can be used for many different things such as finger foods (roll them smaller and put on a toothpick), put on a hoagie bun and eat them like a sub, or even eat them by themselves.

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 lbs. ground beef

2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 fresh jalapeño, finely chopped

1 large egg

1 tsp. ground cumin

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 large onion, chopped

1 (15-oz.) can crushed tomatoes

DIRECTIONS

In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, 1 cup of cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, jalapeño, egg, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until combined, then form into meatballs.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Add meatballs in a single layer, and sear 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.

Add onion to skillet and cook, stirring, until soft, 5 minutes. Stir in crushed tomatoes and chipotle in adobo, and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, and return meatballs to skillet. Cover and simmer until meatballs are cooked through, about 10 minutes.

Top with remaining 1 cup cheese, then cover with lid to let melt, about 2 minutes.

Donnie Spriggs is a longtime resident of Texarkana, Texas. He has been in the restaurant industry since he was 16 and has been with Silver Star Smokehouse since 2014. He is a student at Texas A&M-Texarkana where he is part of the BAAS program. He loves people but likes food even more, mainly because food makes people happy!

the FRIENDS list

Each month, Four States Living will choose two people who have “liked” our Facebook page to be featured in The Friend List. Chosen randomly, these two “friends” will answer questions we provide so our readers can get to know them better. The bonus question (the last question) will be related to the theme of each month’s issue.

HEATHER BUSTER age: 33

occupation: Professional Search Specialist with Express Employment Professionals

If you won the lottery, what is the first thing you would do? I would purchase/pay off both of my siblings’ homes.

When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you pass the time? I pass the time by binge-watching my favorite show or reading.

If you were allowed to have one wish granted, what would it be?

My one wish would be to live debt-free.

CALEB MUDFORD

age: 31

Occupation: Civil Engineer

If you won the lottery, what is the first thing you would do? That entirely depends on the amount of the lottery. $500? Treat myself to new golf clubs. $500 million? Hire a good tax lawyer, and then treat myself to a new golf course.

When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you pass the time? Preferably napping.

If you were allowed to have one wish granted, what would it be? If I were allowed one wish, it would be for everyone to be kind to each other.

At what business could you max out a credit card? That easily could be done at TJ Maxx.

Choose a movie title for the story of your life. “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.”

What are you currently watching on Netflix?

I’m currently rewatching “NCIS” from the very beginning.

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go? I would love to go to Fiji.

If you could only have three apps on your smartphone, which would you pick? Pandora. Kindle. Target.

What’s your favorite sport to watch, and which team do you root for? That would be a toss up between the Arkansas Razorbacks and the Houston Astros.

At what business could you max out a credit card? Bass Pro Shop or any restaurant that has good steaks.

Choose a movie title for the story of your life. “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.”

What are you currently watching on Netflix? “Peaky Blinders.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go? Greece and Italy.

If you could only have three apps on your smartphone, which would you pick? Google Maps. Accuweather. Mewe.

What’s your favorite sport to watch, and which team do you root for? Razorback football, because I’m ready to be hurt again.

“ MOVING FORWARD ... FAST ”

TELL US WHAT YOU LOOK FORWARD TO IN THIS NEW YEAR.

Not really what I am looking forward to but my wish for the New Year is to be able to buy any brand of toilet paper, travel, have a full menu of items at restaurants, not wear a mask in 90 degree heat, and just being able to enjoy life without worry.

I hear r umors of a vaccine and possible normalcy on the horizon.