Four States Living Magazine March 2022

ON THE COVER - MARCH 2022

Mike Mayo and his sons, Ben, Steve and Patrick look forward to what the future holds for their family business. They have each brought a new perspective to Mayo Furniture and vow to continue carrying on the legacy of their father/grandfather, Linn Mayo, who started the business in 1965.

See “Finding a Way” on page 34.

INSIDE :

THE RIGHT

MIX OF PASSION

AND

PURPOSE

For the past five years, 14-year-old Maddie Livingston has been running her own homemade baked goods business, Maddie Cakes

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

Cover photo by: PATRICK MAYO

The Way I See It...

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Robin Rogers, Ed.D.

I’m intrigued by family businesses that make it past the first generation. Five generations ago, one of my grandfathers owned Briley Dry Goods on Broad Street. I’ve wondered, over the years, if his business failed, or if he sold it and profited, or if his sons weren’t interested in taking over the store, so maybe it just closed when he died. The history is gone. As I searched statistics on family-owned business succession, most credible sources agreed that 30 percent of family-owned businesses make it to the second generation, and between 10-13 percent make it to the third. When I think about those odds and how “normal” it seems for Millennials and Gen Zs to change jobs, I can’t help but wonder what effect a job-hopping workforce has on family businesses.

For me, Four States Living is knocking on 30 years of serving the area. I have three adult kids who have all worked at the magazine over the years, from delivering in the rain to taking photographs at parties to writing stories to putting stamps on envelopes. Yet, none of them is interested in owning FSLM when I’m ready to retire. C’est la vie. My only real wish is their happiness in whatever work they do.

In the early days of Four States Living, I can’t tell you how many bumps there were in the road. And as you can imagine, I hit every single speed bump and pothole and usually had a blowout that resulted in replacing my tires. But you know what? When you mess up, you either learn a lesson, or you fail. There is something about the lessons that hit your pocketbook and their inability to let you forget. In spite of the many hard lessons I learned, my personal tenets of business longevity and success are below. I

Four St ates Living

INSPIRE THE PESSIMIST

ELEVATE THE OPTIMIST

STIR THE MIND

ENTERTAIN THE SOUL

have these typed up in my nightstand, and sometimes lose focus, but I know if I get back to these rules, I will get back on track. Thought I’d share:

1. Make sure you love what you do; passion and hard work determine success.

2. Be honest and fair with yourself, employees, vendors, customers, and the community.

3. Apologize when necessary, and say thank you a lot.

4. Give back to the community you serve.

5. Do not be afraid to change.

6. If all else fails, ask for advice from people with more experience.

7. Surround yourself with good people.

8. Trust your gut.

This month, we are celebrating people who were raised in Texarkana and have built lives that are full of hard work, tenacity, gratefulness, and grit. These are people who my grandmother would say “were raised right.” A person’s “raising,” from manners to education to work ethic to spiritual training, has a great deal to do with their future.

I feel sorry for those who missed out on parents or grandparents who invested the time, love, and energy into raising their children. I feel equally sorry for those children who were given everything and not expected to learn the value of work.

For the men on the cover this month, much was expected from each of them. Not one of the Mayos was given anything; they earned their places in the family furniture manufacturing business through

PUBLISHER Dr. Robin Rogers

EDITOR

Suzy Turner

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Kim McMurry

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Victoria Herman

FEATURED COLUMNISTS

Nichole Holze

Donnie Spriggs

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lindsey McMillan

Vicki Melde

Ellen Orr

Lisa Porterfield Thompson

Amber Smith Zaliski

Amber E. Willman

effort and commitment. Started in 1965 by a World War II veteran, and the family patriarch Linn Mayo, Mayo Furniture takes great pride in designing, constructing, and selling beautiful, quality furniture that is made in America by Americans using American products. How wonderful does that sound? Very.

My respect for this third generation family business is immense. The Mayos have been creating jobs to stimulate our local economy for almost 60 years.

I had the unique opportunity to serve with Steve Mayo on the City Council a little over a decade ago; he was the Texarkana, Texas, mayor. During that time, I got to know how important integrity, family, and doing the right thing, in spite of potentially looking unpopular, was Mayor Mayo. I feel like Steve and his brothers got that from their father, Mike, who got it from his (and Gary’s) father, Linn. So much depends upon the ability to do the right thing everyday, all day, even when nobody else is paying attention. This is how I see the Mayo family, and I hope you enjoy their feature and the others where we showcase people who were brought up in the Texarkana area and are thriving in their hometowns.

Spring is just around the bend, and we are also partnering with the Texarkana Home Builders Association to promote the upcoming Home and Garden show and the many home and home improvement businesses that are building a beautiful Four States region.

Hope you enjoy all we have to share, and as always, thanks for reading FSLM.

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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Advertising rates may be obtained by contacting the Sales Department at 903-7922262, writing to Four States Living Magazine, 4106 Summerhill Square, Texarkana, Texas 75503, visiting our website www.fourstatesliving.com or emailing our Sales Department at info@fourstatesliving.com

During July 2017, Bill, Davis, and Austin attended the National Jamboree at the Bechtel National Scout Reserve in Glen Jean, West Virginia. Davis, Austin, and Mason on V-Day at Camp Longhorn in Burnet, Texas, during the summer of 2018.

& A LEGACY OF Service Scouting

JESSICA AND BILL MILLER ARE EXTREMELY PROUD OF THEIR SONS, DAVIS, AUSTIN, AND MASON, AND THEIR COMMITMENTS TO BECOMING EAGLE

SCOUTS

by LISA PORTERFIELD THOMPSON

Bill and Jessica Miller have raised three Eagle Scouts. That’s not something every family can say, but with a legacy of service and Scouting like the Millers have instilled, it’s not surprising to see their three sons are accomplishing great things for their communities.

Bill and Jessica met through friends in college, serving as each other’s fraternity and sorority dates at member functions one weekend in February at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. The two have been together since.

After Bill graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, he went on to Texas Tech School of Law in Lubbock. Jessica moved to Houston to put her degree in Economics to work briefly before moving to Dallas to pursue a teaching certificate from Southern Methodist University. After law school, the two moved to Texarkana to settle down. “Bill grew up in Texarkana, and we both wanted to live close to family,” Jessica said. “When Bill received a job offer in Texarkana following law school, it was an easy decision to move back here and make this our home.”

Bill went to work as an attorney for Patton, Haltom, Roberts,

McWilliams & Greer Law Firm fresh out of law school, and Jessica took a second grade teaching position at St. James Day School. The two were married in 1997 during their first year in Texarkana.

The couple’s three sons, Davis (21), Austin (18), and Mason (16), each attended St. James Day School, and when Davis was old enough, the Millers’ Scouting journey began. It wasn’t immediately clear what an adventure was in-store, but over time, Scouting became more than just a hobby. “When Davis was in first grade, I was told that he should join Cub Scouts with Pack 16 at First Baptist Church,” Jessica said. “He started Scouting that year and continued to enjoy it all the way through high school. Once he crossed over from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts in fifth grade, earning the rank of Eagle Scout became a goal, as well as an expectation.”

Bill and Jessica credit good Scout leadership for inspiring their boys to be successful at Scouting. “The boys were lucky to have had encouragement, support and strong leadership from Troop 16,” Jessica said. “Davis’ leader, Mike Asher, set the standard for the Miller boys. He made Scouting fun, cultivated a love of Scouting in his patrol, and pushed hard to get all his boys to make Eagle. After Austin and Mason transitioned to Boy Scouts, it was understood that they would follow the same path to Eagle as Davis had taken.”

Bill and Jessica each played an integral role in getting each of the Miller boys to the Scouting finish line. Bill helped plan, lead, and attended campouts, hikes, and Scouting activities for all three boys. He served as an Assistant Scoutmaster for the Troop 16 Wolf, Panther, and Kodiak patrols, Troop Adult Quartermaster, completed the Wood Badge course and related community service projects, and was a High Adventure Counselor for troop and patrol activities. He served as an adult Scoutmaster for the 2017 National Jamboree Caddo Area Council Troop 4203 and has served many years as a merit badge counselor at Caddo Area Council Winter Camp by teaching photography and law courses. In addition, he has served on the Caddo Area Council Board of Directors, is a member of the Order of the Arrow, and is a recent recipient of the Silver Beaver Award for service to youth within the Caddo Area Council.

Jessica served as the quintessential Scout mom, taking the boys to weekly Cub Scout and pack meetings, driving the boys around town so

Davis’ Eagle Scout portrait – March 2018

Austin’s Eagle Scout portrait – April 2021

Mason’s Eagle Scout portrait – November 2021

they could sell and later deliver popcorn for a fundraiser, helping plan and organize annual Cub Scout Blue and Gold Banquets, attending multiple Mom and Me campouts with the boys at Preston Hunt, making countless trips to The Silver Needle to have patches sewn on the boys’ uniforms, attending tap out ceremonies at Camp Pioneer for the boys’ induction to the Order of the Arrow, and so much more.

All that to say that the boys pulled their own weight when it came to Scouting. “The boys faithfully attended Monday night meetings and served in various leadership roles within their dens and their patrols,” Jessica said. “They each attended Webelos Resident Camp at Preston Hunt, Scout summer camp at Camp Pioneer and Camp Hale, and Caddo Area Council Winter Camp at Preston Hunt. In 2017, Austin and Davis spent a week in West Virginia at the National Jamboree. All three boys participated in many Eagle service projects, conservation and cleanup efforts, food distributions, Scout-A-Rama campouts at Spring Lake Park, and long hikes. They are all members of the Order of the Arrow, the honor society of the Boy Scouts of America.”

The Miller boys’ Eagle projects have each benefitted the Texarkana community greatly. “Davis created and produced PSAs for four local nonprofit organizations,” Jessica said. “He chose this because it was enjoyable to him and allowed him to use his talents with filming and editing. Austin designed, built, and hung owl boxes at Bringle Lake Park. He chose this because he has a love of animals and was interested in providing shelter and helping to sustain owl habitats. Mason designed and built an outdoor classroom at St. James Day School. The project included a planter box for educational use, as well as a teaching and gathering space. He chose this because there was a need for such a space at St. James, and it allowed him to give something back to his

In 2010, Davis hiked the Buckeye Trail in Ouachita National Forest.

former elementary school.”

Bill and Jessica are extremely proud of their sons and the contributions they’ve made, but Scouting has taught them a lot more than that. “Scouting is more than an activity,” Bill said. “It is fundamentally a program to teach good citizenship and leadership skills to our kids. Scouts progress from being part of a group to having to lead the group; from learning life skill to teaching life skills. They must learn team building skills and how to work together to accomplish goals. In the end, the whole program is designed to teach kids how to be self-confident, productive citizens who are proud of their country, their relationship with God and who know how to work with others to accomplish all the challenges that are thrown at them as adults. Overall, Scouting taught leadership skills! The boys have learned how to be self-reliant, look out for others, be a good citizen, be involved in their community, work well with others, and set a goal and work towards achieving it.”

The Miller boys are involved in a lot more ways than just Scouts, but in every aspect of their lives, they use the skills and lessons learned in Scouting. Davis is currently a junior at The University of Texas at Austin, majoring in Radio, Television-Film. When he’s not in class, he films UT home athletic events for Bevo Video Productions, films community events for Earl Miller Productions, Inc. such as concerts and Austin FC soccer games. He is actively involved with TSTV (Texas Student Television) and the Delta Kappa Alpha Cinematic Society. In his spare time, he enjoys skiing, camping, playing the guitar, and spending time with friends.

Austin is a senior at Texas High School where he is a four-year varsity soccer player, and a club soccer player for FC Dallas East Texas. He is a member of the Student Council and National Honor Society. Austin serves as a church acolyte at St. James Episcopal Church. He plans to attend Sewanee: The University of the South, where he will join the men’s soccer team in the fall. In his spare time, he enjoys skiing, listening to music, playing soccer and refereeing youth soccer games.

Mason is a sophomore at Texas High School, where he’s on the JV basketball team and the track team. He is a member of Student Council and serves as a youth soccer referee. His hobbies include playing basketball, attending church youth group, and spending time with his friends.

Bill and Mason with an Indian during an Order of the Arrow tap out ceremony at Camp Pioneer in Mena, Arkansas, in June of 2018.

photo by PEYTON SIMS

photo by DR. ROBIN ROGERS

THE RIGHT MIX of Passion & Purpose

FOR THE PAST FIVE YEARS, 14-YEAROLD MADDIE LIVINGSTON HAS BEEN RUNNING HER OWN HOMEMADE BAKED GOODS BUSINESS, MADDIE CAKES

by AMBER SMITH ZALISKI

Three dozen eggs, two pounds of butter, always more flour and sugar, please! This is probably not the grocery store request list you would expect from a 14-year-old, but Maddie Livingston has been running her own homemade baked goods business since she was 9 years old, and honestly the number of eggs she has cracked is probably only surpassed by the numbers of “oohs and ahhhs, and mmmmmms’’ that her creations have elicited. With the support of her family and the community, Maddie has been able to hone her craft and turn one of her passions into a productive and purposeful venture.

Like many young and ambitious kids, Maddie needed a way to make some money. She needed to make some money because she desperately wanted to adopt two poodles and add them into the already busy Livingston family. “At the time, our family was living in Arkadelphia, and my parents were still running the pizza restaurant, and my dad was also traveling to Texarkana for work, and my parents were starting to build Tacos 4 Life, and we already had three dogs …” Maddie explained. “Knowing how much I love dogs, my dad let us foster the two miniature poodles, but I could only keep them under one condition – I had to help pay for their vet and grooming bills.”

This was 2016 and just the beginning for Maddie Cakes. “I was 9 at the time, and I decided to try to make some

One of Maddie’s favorite creations was this two-tiered Minnie Mouse-themed birthday cake she made for a local customer this past December.

Maddie made her very first wedding cake for Rachel Medina and Dalton Crabtree’s wedding in July 2020 at Garrison Gardens. Although she was unsure about making wedding cakes at the time, she didn’t want to let her dear friend, Rachel, down so she gave it a try, and it turned out beautifully.

money doing something I already loved – baking cupcakes.” Maddie would bake cupcakes to sell at the pizza restaurant on Friday nights. “Before long, I was selling out before we even made it to the restaurant. My very first order was for cookiesn-cream cupcakes. When we finally moved back to Texarkana, I had so much great support from old and new friends that I was able to start baking cakes as well!”

These days, the Livingston family is happy to be settled back in Texarkana, where they seem to stay just as busy with all of the things they love. In addition to homeschooling Maddie and her older brother, Gabe, and keeping up with activities for two teenagers, Toney and Sandy Livingston own and manage Tacos 4 Life, Toney is president at Bank OZK, and they are active church and community members. In their extra spare time, Toney and Sandy may be picking up the extra butter or helping Maddie deliver treats around town.

While the Livingstons all agree that Maddie Cakes has grown beyond anything they ever could have imagined, Toney and Sandy can’t be too surprised by their daughter’s ambition and determination. They have modeled a strong work ethic and shared their passion for giving back for as long as their kids can remember. “My parents have had a restaurant since I was 7,” Maddie said, and she and Gabe are no strangers to jumping in and doing whatever needed to be done. “My mom has helped me from day one – teaching me how to measure, how to pipe frosting … My dad has always encouraged my brother and me to be independent and to do what we love.”

And Maddie has always loved being in the kitchen. “She

During September of 2021, Maddie took her dance photos in Downtown Texarkana at the Kress Gap.

Best friends since 2015, Rachael Womack, Maddie, and Jaci Jones got together for Jaci’s birthday in June 2020.

While vacationing in Fairplay, Colorado, with her family in December 2019, Maddie played in the snow with her rescue poodles, Bella and Rayna.

started out helping me, and then a couple of her close friends also loved to bake, so they would have fun doing that occasionally. As she has gotten older, she truly does all of it on her own. I’m basically just clean-up-crew now,” Sandy laughed. “There have definitely been times that I’ve asked her if she wants to take a break – to just be a kid – but Maddie is such a go-getter, and she truly loves what she is doing. She just keeps going and going.”

Over the years, Maddie’s skills have evolved, and Maddie Cakes has grown exponentially. She now offers everything from cupcakes to beautifully decorated three-tiered wedding cakes. “It really seemed like overnight that we went from letting her take any order requested, to all of a sudden staying up until one or two in the morning,” Sandy said. “That’s when we had to get a calendar and start making a schedule.”

Currently, Maddie tries to limit herself to two or three orders a week and is usually booked solid for months. “One of my favorite things about homeschool is that I get to be at home and don’t have all of the rushing around everyday, and I have the flexibility to bake during the day,” Maddie said. “Since I started competitive dance, I don’t have quite as much time, but during the summer I like to bake almost every day!”

Maddie’s online galleries (maddiecakescreations.com and Maddie Cakes on Facebook and maddie_cakes13 on Instagram) are a treasure trove of beautiful cakes and smiling customers. “I really love looking at Instagram and Pinterest to get new ideas, and I love trying to learn new techniques,” Maddie said. “My favorite cakes I have ever made are the Minnie Mouse inspired

The 2020 Livingston family Christmas photo featured the crew in their Grinch-themed shirts. From back are: Sandy holding Rayna, Toney, Gabe holding Chewy, and in front, Maddie holding Bella.

Maddie works on her first wedding cake, a strawberry cake filled with lemon and strawberry buttercream and topped with cream cheese icing.

birthday cake, and, well, I love all of the wedding cakes I have ever made. I love being able to make a cake for someone’s special day.”

Recently, Maddie received the surprise of a lifetime when she was contacted by a recruiter and invited to be on the television baking competition, “Disney’s Magic Bake Off.” “As of now, the logistics just didn’t work out for us,” Sandy explained, “but it brought her a ton of joy just to have someone reach out.” For now, Maddie is happy to keep making her own magic around town. “During the pandemic, one of our family friends donated money so that I could buy supplies

and bake treats for essential workers around town,” Maddie said. “Even though it was a small thing, I kept doing it even after I used all of the money because I really enjoyed being able to do that.”

At a very young age, Maddie Livingston has discovered that the right mix of passion and purpose can be very fulfilling and that bringing joy to others is a pretty good way to bring joy back to yourself. And the sweetest part of all is having Bella and Rayna, her two rescued miniature poodles, curled up at her feet at the end of a long day.

This cake was for Brooke Raney and Justin Fitts’ wedding in August 2020. It was the second wedding cake that Maddie has made.

Red roses were the theme of this wedding cake Maddie created for Anna Whitehead and Peyton Brown’s wedding in January.

This past July, Maddie made this wedding cake for Kailey Fenton and Jacob Knotts’ wedding at Trinity Baptist Church.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

CAPITAL TITLE HOSTS TEXARKANA USA REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE’S BUSINESS AFTER HOURS EVENT

Capital Title hosted the Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Business After Hours event on February 10. Hors d’oeuvres and drinks were served to attendees.

Lauren Brooks and Shawna Parry

Angela Herrington, Tiffany Fredrick and Krystal Richardson

Gary Gathright and Patrick Dodd

Malachi Smith and Brent Marvel

Voscia Walker and Fredye Alford

Greg Stone, Scott Davis and Jackie Davis

Gary Gathright, Suki O’Neal, Robyn Stone, Brittney Haynes, Allison Wright and Greg Stone

Robin Sewell and Pat Coker

Kristin Allen, Melanie Brookman and Samantha Mitchell

Tiesha Weekly, Carol Robbins and Carline Massey

Anya Howard, Katie Stone, Robyn Stone and Cassie Anderson Steven Thompson and Jason Ross

Jennifer Steele and Holly Craigen

Samantha Rogers, Katie Stone, Ben King, Amber Adams and Carol Robbins

Natalie Copeland, Cody Deal, Brooke Marshall and Blair Barlow

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

LONE STAR CHAPTER DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION AMERICAN HISTORY ESSAY CONTEST

The Lone Star Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution recently sponsored its American History Essay Contest. Participating students represented St. James Day School, Pleasant Grove Intermediate School and Texas Middle School.

The students were given the following prompt: November 11, 2021, was the 100th Anniversary of the dedication of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The students had to imagine that they had a brother who lost his life on the battlefields of France during WWI. Their family attended the November 11, 1921, dedication of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Washington, D.C. They had to describe what this meant to them and their family and why it is important to remember those who gave their lives to serve our nation.

David Mayo

Taryn Hauburger

Shepard Bray

Abagail Thomson

Nirav Neupane

Ava Gray Brisco

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CHARLA STOREY

To One He Gave a Talent

TEXARKANA NATIVE MEGAN

THORNTON

FINDS SOLID GOLD

SUCCESS WITH HER BUSINESS, MEGAN THORNE FINE JEWELS

by AMBER E. WILLMAN

When the Bible speaks about talents in Matthew 6, to one He gave five talents, to another He gave two, and a third received one, it’s talking about a measurement of gold. How many have taken these talents literally? It might explain why some folks seem to succeed in everything they do. Enter Megan Thornton.

A 1998 graduate of Pleasant Grove High School, Megan wasted no time putting her talents to use. She attended Oklahoma State University to study apparel design. With her heart set on the fashion industry, Megan set her eyes toward Miami, Florida. A summer internship before her senior year secured her a full-time position as an assistant designer for Eberjey. “The most amazing lingerie, swim, and loungewear company in Miami, Florida,” Megan says. “[It was] such a great opportunity, and I soaked up so much knowledge in that role.”

But Megan also learned something about herself. She enjoyed the creative process the most. She wanted to be

Megan polishes rings at the bench.

This wedding set is an example of Megan’s collection. It features 18K yellow gold with antique diamonds and salt & pepper diamonds.

While redesigning a client’s bridal set, Megan drew this illustration for the custom project.

Flanked by her grandmothers, Joyce Thornton and Joyce Files, Megan graduated from Pleasant Grove High School in 1998. She admits that she was surrounded by paint, crafts, fabric, and lace as a child and credits her grandmothers as the reason for her interest in art and fashion.

more hands-on, physically make items. So, she started thinking about her options. She needed a medium that would give her creative control while allowing her to be part of the process from start to finish.

In college, Megan took a jewelry-making class as an elective. She was mesmerized. “Fire and tools and precious metals and gems – it felt primal and intuitive, but as I already had my job planned out, I never looked at it as anything other than a fun class,” Megan explains.

But the whole purpose of the talents parable is sewing seeds to reap a harvest. A seed was planted in Megan, and now it had room to grow. Megan began researching and determined that jewelry designer could be a legitimate career move. She returned to school and founded her company, and the rest is history.

Well, not exactly. Megan had friends in Fort Worth, Texas. She loved the museums and cultural district and decided to make it the base for her operations. Working with jewelry required additional training and certifications, so Megan attended the Texas Institute for Jewelry Technology. She also needed to separate Megan, the designer, from Megan, the person. With a subtle nod to nature, Megan shortened her surname and Megan Thorne Fine Jewels was born. Now, she just needed to make it all work. “If I had to sum up my strategy looking back, it would honestly be – naivety,” Megan says.

Although her time at Eberjey gave her a foundation in wholesale business operations, she had no exposure to the jewelry industry. She booked her first trade show on a whim and a prayer. “Of course, I had no business being there with my mostly bare display cases,” Megan says.

But she was watering the seeds. Megan took the opportunity to observe and learn. The experience evolved into a strategy of relationships. “Our success is rooted in deep relationships with our accounts and clients – we find that working with fewer people but having them be repeat customers is more rewarding, both emotionally and financially, than thousands of one-off sales.”

Megan has used word-of-mouth, trade shows, and social media to build her business. Her designs are carried in many of the top designer jewelry boutiques, both nationally and internationally.

Engagement rings and wedding bands are the company’s bread and butter, but she loves commissions. “We love custom work reusing the client’s family stones or inherited jewelry,” Megan says. “Our work speaks to modern women who like a wink at tradition. I respect the inherent value of the materials we are working with, and want a design to feel timeless, but with a feminine modern edge.”

Megan Thorne Fine Jewels specializes in goldsmithing. They steer clear of silver and alternative metals like titanium, preferring 18K recycled gold, platinum, diamonds, and precious gems. Many of the diamonds are antique. They source their stones as ethically and transparently as possible. Maybe

Megan lights a torch in preparation of casting in her first jewelry studio which was located in her garage at her home.

Jaz and Megan were married at Graceland while on a road trip. Only her parents were there for the wedding.

Megan and her brothers, Daniel and Patrick, and grandmother, Joyce Thornton, digging for diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, Arkansas.

Megan’s parents, Dr. Chuck and Melanie Thornton, with Megan’s son, Elwood, their first and so far, only grandchild!

talent as a measurement of gold is more than coincidence.

Megan Thorne Atelier is a working studio in Fort Worth with a showroom fronting their jewelry production for local clients. The website services long-distance clients. The company has grown to seven employees, and Megan’s husband, Jaz, has joined the team. A musician by trade, Jaz has generously set his passion aside temporarily to aid in the company’s expansion. “I think I’ve got about another year or so of his full-time help before he bails to start playing again,” Megan says.

Success has a learning curve. “If I were to do it again, I would have found a business partner in the very beginning who excelled at those business-y things that I find tedious, and I would have had more time to focus on design and creation.”

Although it conflicts with the concept of “love what you do and success will follow,” Megan encourages others to enjoy their hobbies and find pleasure and peace in them. She cautions against turning a hobby into a business. They say the devil is in the details, and unfortunately, that is where most entrepreneurs spend the bulk of their time. Invoicing, operations, and employee management are as much responsible for the success of a business as the creative processes.

And as important as the operations and the products is the company’s establishment within its community. Megan Thorne Fine Jewels values its city and supports local organizations, including SafeHaven of Tarrant County which provides support and resources to victims of domestic violence. NearSouthside is an organization that is working toward revitalization of the studio’s neighborhood.

Megan does not miss the slower pace of small-town living, preferring the bustle and big city opportunities of Fort Worth. But she and Jaz and their 6-year-old son, Elwood, visit Texarkana often. Megan’s parents, Dr. Charles and Melanie Thornton still live and work in Texarkana. “Texarkana feels both completely different and absolutely the same as when I lived there. My son plays at the same parks that I did as a child which feels warm and nostalgic for me, although he enjoys many more ice creams than I remember being allowed to drip all over Spring Lake Park.”

The Book of Matthew goes on to explain what happens to the men and their talents. The man with one talent hid it, and God called him a wicked, hard man. The man reaped where he hadn’t sown. He wasted his talent. The men with two and five talents traded their talents and made more talents. Because they were faithful over a few things, God made them rulers over many things. They entered the joy of the Lord. But here’s the thing. This is literally Megan’s business plan. She had a talent, and it happened to be working with gold; still don’t think that is a coincidence. She shared her talents with others and built relationships that added to her opportunities. God honored those opportunities, and Megan Thorne Fine Jewels thrives. To one He gave a talent. Megan’s success is solid gold.

Lots of Megan, Jaz and Elwood’s family trips center around work ... trade and trunk shows, buying trips, etc. Here, Elwood is pictured in New York City while Megan is doing a show at one of her stockists.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

WOMEN OF HOPE & COURAGE MEMBERSHIP DRIVE

The Women of Hope & Courage recently held its annual Membership Drive benefitting CASA for Children and the Texarkana Children’s Advocacy Center. Hosted at J Brown for the Home and Joel Wright Art Gallery, the event raised funds and promoted volunteer opportunities for both organizations.

Carolyn Allen and Suzanne Smith

Remica Gray, Jeff Brown and Amy Thomas

Holly Dickeson and Mandy Cater

Britt Earnest and Terri Forrester

Eden Young and Brianna Gresham

Gail Eichler, Bertha Shipp and Debbie Alkire

Judge Sherry Hawkins and Camille McGinnis

Missy Davison, Malenda Cree and Lisa Sitterley

THE MAYOS STAY COMMITTED TO GROWING THEIR FAMILY BUSINESS WHILE HONORING ITS REVERED FOUNDER’S LEGACY

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PATRICK MAYO

Finding a Way

by VICKI MELDE

What father of two decides to start from scratch to create a business when his children are in high school? That is precisely what Linn Mayo – affectionately known as Papaw – did. Mr. Mayo didn’t have a formal college education. What he had was infinitely more valuable – a keen mind and a Marine’s determination to get the job done.

“Mayo Furniture was born from a hard-headed guy who was just naïve enough to not consider the possibility of failure,” Patrick Mayo explained. “Papaw’s sole focus was to provide for his family. His family included me, the youngest grandchild, 20 years before I was born, and eventually extended to his work family which now includes thousands. He had many opportunities to go to work for well-established companies – but he wanted to create something that would sustain multiple generations of his family.”

Eldest of the third-generation brothers now at the helm of Mayo Furniture, Steve shared how his Papaw’s bond with the community made the impossible possible. “A healthy by-product of his desire to support his family was the honor of supporting a growing community. The community is what allowed him to get on his feet … his determination is what propelled him past every obstacle.” Find a way. “Material providers, who had immense confidence in him, sold to Papaw on credit, and once he was on his feet, he paid them back. We haven’t forgotten what this community did for us. We won’t forget.”

The operation was truly a family business from its inception. Mr. Mayo’s wife, Dean, was a very hands-on partner – at first learning to cut and sew mattress covers. She then moved into the administrative side, overseeing such crucial components as price lists. Sons Gary and Mike would work

The Mayos enjoy shooting photos of their furniture in interesting locations. This Mayo 2262L sofa (in Heirloom Blaze Red), is pictured in front of Oak Alley Plantation in Vacherie, Louisiana.

For over 30 years, the Mayos have held annual family reunions on the Thomas side of the family. Pictured in July 2019 are: (front row) Reece, Addison, Liam, Alex, David, Lily, and Audrey; (back row) Alison, Steve, Mike, Ann, Ben, Stacy, Lauren, and Patrick.

at the plant every evening after school – ensuring trucks were loaded for the next day. It took the family working together to get the business off the ground –and after college, both sons joined their dad full-time. Gary focused on production management, and Mike concentrated on marketing/sales. In time, they realized they needed additional expertise and hired Don McCoy to assist with Sales and Clyde Permenter as the first CFO.

“Dad’s approach was that we’d gotten our education – it’s time to take it and run with it,” Mike remembered. “One day, this will be your business. You’ll make mistakes along the way – just don’t make the fatal mistake (a decision that would cause the business to fail).”

In order to fully comprehend and appreciate the amazing success of Mayo Furniture, one must get to know the integrity and grit of Linn Mayo. He was always good with machines and had an instinct for how things worked. A natural leader, he became the supervisor in basically every job he ever had. Mike Mayo recalled of his father, “When the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, Dad heard about it on the radio three days after it happened. What a different world it was. Like many of his generation, he took it personally.” Mike continued to reminisce about his remarkable father, “After working as a machinist in a war effort factory in Memphis until he was old enough to enlist, Dad knew in his gut the right thing to do. He acted on it and joined what he knew to be the toughest group of fighters on the planet and went to war.”

Following several months as a rifle instructor, Staff Sergeant Mayo finally convinced the Marine Corps to allow him to pursue his original purpose … to fight for his country. His superiors wanted him to go to OCS (Officer Candidate School) in Pensacola or to Brazil to continue to train others on the use of rifles – but he was adamant about fighting for his country. So, he was put on a ship to a small, strategic, but otherwise worthless island in the Pacific called Iwo Jima. Patrick shared his Papaw’s experience there with obvious reverence. “He saw the flag being raised. He saw the horror, the chaos, the carnage ... He saw what men became in their terror. In this hell of war, Papaw learned something about himself. He could operate under the worst of conditions.”

“After 10 days on that island, he received the wound that saved his life. Ten days of hell would shape this man for the rest of his life. What he learned in the Marine Corps – what he found on that island, made him the man that could risk his family’s financial security. The experience forged the man who could confidently lay out a plan and execute a strategy that would result in his children graduating from college one generation removed from a high school drop-out and at least two generations – more than 70 years later – having the opportunities he never had,” Patrick recalled. “He created a multi-million-dollar furniture company that has survived everything the world has thrown at it since 1965. To give some perspective … there are only five furniture manufacturers left in Texas. Many states have zero. Mayo is not the largest or most well-known

Mike finishes up an upholstered chair in the first Mayo facility which was located in Downtown Texarkana during the spring of 1966.

Gary, Linn, and Mike accepted a Manufacturer of the Year Award from the Southwest Home Furnishings Association at the Dallas Furniture Market in 1988.

in the industry, but we are among the most respected. Papaw started that.” Find a way.

Mr. Mayo’s spirit definitely lives on in these three accomplished young men for whom he served as their inspiration. He retired in 1989 and suddenly found himself with a great deal of free time – and he filled it with his grandkids. “The old Marine taught us how to shoot, how to hunt and fish, and shared his philosophies along the way,” Ben remembered fondly. “For our generation, most kids lived in a neighborhood where other kids knocked on the door and asked if they could come out and play. For us, it was Papaw calling our mother to see if we could come out and play. So, we did.”

“Papaw was a project person – he was always working on something, improving it in some way,” Steve noted. “He included us in many of his projects – especially if it was learning to catch a fish somewhere. Papaw made sure we experienced everything he missed out on as he made up for lost time.” The seeds of following in his footsteps and giving their all to the enterprise he created were planted during those special days Papaw invested in his grandsons.

In the summer of 2003, Mike asked his sons if they would commit to Mayo Furniture. He was deciding whether or not to buy his brother Gary’s portion of the business. “He made it clear that he needed our help and, with his guidance, we should be able to take Mayo Furniture to the next level,” Ben shared. “Stephen and I were already working at Mayo, so we had really already made that commitment. Patrick was just entering his senior year of high school, so his focus at the time was on making it through the Corps of Cadets and graduating from Texas A&M University. All of us felt that we could make something out of this company.”

What Mr. Mayo started is now in the capable and committed hands of his three grandsons:

Stephen (as his family refers to him) – Texas A&M Class of ’96 – Business Administration. Corps of Cadets Company A-1. President of Mayo Furniture focusing on manufacturing, assets, insurance, and logistics. Married to Alison, two children. “Too many community service points to list” (according to Patrick) – most notably, he served as Mayor of Texarkana, Texas, for four years

Ben – SMU Class of ’00 – Mechanical Engineering. VP of Technology focusing on the data infrastructure that drives manufacturing, order entry, invoicing, and material procurement. Married to Stacy, two children. “We leave the community service to Stephen.” (He and Stacy chaired the Heart Ball one year.)

Patrick – Texas A&M Class of ’07 – Industrial Distribution. Corps of Cadets Company E-1. VP of Sales, Merchandising and Marketing focusing on the overall look/image and reputation of Mayo in the furniture industry. Married to Lauren, four children. “We leave the community service to Stephen.”

Reward is rarely without risk, and the Mayos have always faced challenges head-on. Due to market conditions, the business was stagnant for many years. Find a way. “My opinion now is that there is no way we would ever let Papaw’s creation fail,” Steve admitted. “What the three of us have added to this company is a new perspective in our different focuses –Ben’s ability to speak in code with our machines and the system and align them with his unique understanding of our mechanism; Patrick’s ability to see the big picture and not be afraid to make changes in merchandising practices, marketing, and managing sales; and my ability to run operations and deal with people.“

Regardless of the changes, the company remains as Mr. Mayo made it – where a handshake is valued and partners are chosen for their integrity, not the amount of business they might be able to provide. Mike and Gary were good stewards of the business their father began and steered it thru a considerable amount of ‘troubled waters.’ In the later ’90s and early 2000s, they faced extremely tumultuous times with a considerable amount of furniture manufacturing moving to China. The Mayo brothers made a very strategic decision to not attempt to compete with China’s mass

A close-knit family, Linn (seated), Patrick, Steve, Mike, and Ben represent the Mayo men in this 2013 photo.

This photo from July 1969 shows the shipping side of the Mayo Manufacturing factory with the furniture and bedding trailers.

Patrick, Ben, Steve, and Mike Mayo, with friends, Jared Thomas and Mack Thomas, during a 5-day fly fishing trip to Smith River, Montana, in May 2021.

production of lower-priced products. “We chose to focus on what China couldn’t do,” Mike recalled. “We played to our strength of custom-made furniture and gave the consumer what she wanted in two to three weeks. At a time when our competitors were going out of business right and left, that decision literally saved our company.”

The addition of the third generation at Mayo coincided with the introduction of CNC (computerized numerical control) technology in the furniture industry. Now, almost every component is designed on a computer and cut by a machine. A process that might have taken weeks has been honed into one that takes days. While the production mechanism only takes a few days, COVID dramatically increased the lead time on products

to 30 weeks due to overwhelming demand. The Mayos liken the challenges presented by COVID to those they faced due to the rise of imports 20+ years before.

“To be fair, ‘Find a Way’ is very similar to ‘I don’t know,’” Patrick noted. “The world has changed many times over since 1965 – it’s completely changed since 2020. We are constantly in new territory. ‘Find a Way’ is why we’ve been able to cope and evolve. ‘Find a Way’ gave us the gift of confidence over time.” Steve added, “Papaw found it in the Marine Corps and on Iwo Jima. Dad found it through trial and error as the most tenured employee at Mayo. We, as Generation 3, found it by learning from Papaw and Dad’s failures and successes along with our own. We don’t

During Thanksgiving 2015, the Mayos gathered at Gary and Mary Ted’s cabin north of New Boston, Texas. Pictured are: (bottom row) Ann, Alex, Audrey, David, Addison, and Mike; (top row) Lily, Patrick, Lauren, Ben, Stacy, Steve, Reece, and Alison.

Linn Mayo’s bank board photo taken around 1979. The bank started out as Oaklawn Bank and changed names several times later.

Linn with sons, Gary and Mike, during a church fellowship in Beaumont, Texas, around 1954.

have a perfect record, but we’ve certainly accomplished more than Papaw ever imagined. It is what he was most proud of. He couldn’t talk about it without getting choked up.”

“Mayo Furniture has come a long way since 1965,” Steve stated. “We’ve been a conservative but profitable business. The future is bigger. We know how to do it, and we have the resources to do it save one … people. We must ask the community once again for help. We can’t do this on our own. We need the good people of Texarkana to join us. We could double our business in six months if we could find the right people. We could quadruple it over again in six years … with the right people. It will happen – it’s just a matter of time. We will find a way.”

Patrick added, “We are in a very advantageous position. No one is starting more furniture manufacturing businesses in the United States. It’s too hard. That’s unfortunate, but it means great things for Mayo. In our price point, there are maybe a dozen companies with which we compete. Regionally, it’s really only four. I don’t see that changing.”

Not too far over the horizon is Generation 4. Will the company streamline into one branch? Will all eight grandkids come back to the company? These are normal questions that every family business must answer every generation. “There is more than one right answer and I, for one, am looking forward to what the future holds,” Ben shared. “Perhaps one day we will understand how proud Papaw was after passing down our creation to a worthy next generation of Mayos. What does the future hold? I’d say it’s for them to decide … and find a way to make it happen.”

“Let us hold our lives up to the light of those who walked before us, preserving the footprints they left behind and the pathways they created.” – Aggie Muster ‘95

Exquisite INTERIORS

RUSTIC. CHARMING. SECLUDED.

by SUZY TURNER

by KIM MCMURRY

For Kim, Bruce and Sydney Hornbuckle, their home serves as their sanctuary. A winding driveway begins at the highway, swings under a sturdy wrought iron and stone gate, and leads past a stocked one-acre pond. Surrounded by trees and nestled high on a hill at the end of the drive sits their 4 bedroom, 3 bath ranch style home that could easily be mistaken for a charming lodge.

Located halfway between Redwater and Texarkana, this 3,500 square foot beauty exudes country charm. Built by a family friend and decorated by Jackie Gooding, this home combines natural materials, organic elements, and exposed architectural design.

Clean lines and soft lighting add a touch of simplicity here while an open floor plan offers plenty of space for the family to gather. Locally-sourced log beams and columns offer beautiful design elements in the entryway while also adding strength and durability to the room. To the left of the doorway sits a refurbished 1950s Wurlitzer baby grand piano, strategically placed in the formal dining room. A vintage Duncan Phyfe dining table, buffet, and china cabinet showcase Kim’s glassware and china collection.

To the right of the doorway is Bruce’s favorite room in the home – his home office. Since he enjoys hunting and golfing, this office has a masculine feel, housing numerous deer mounts from hunting excursions in Texas, Arkansas, and Canada, and flags from his golfing trips to Ireland, England, and Scotland. A tall cathedral ceiling adds a dramatic touch to this room. A golf bag from the 2004 Ryder Cup, signed by all of the team members, was gifted to Bruce and is displayed beside family photographs and mementoes. An infrared sauna sits in one corner, offering a place for Bruce to relax and unwind after a long day on the course.

The functional kitchen offers modern amenities like stainless appliances, granite countertops, and ceramic tile floors that resemble wood. The neutral color palette brings in shades of browns and is accented by the light oak cabinets. The attached dining area offers a table set for four, while the matching chairs are etched with a Texas star, and sunflowers on the table continue the Texas theme. The large bar offers comfortable overflow seating for five and allows the cook to converse with guests as the meal is prepared.

Large and open, the comfortable living area boasts a massive

photos

stone fireplace, quite possibly the focal point of the entire home. While on one of their travels, the Hornbuckles saw a fireplace similar to this one and knew that they wanted to incorporate this type of look into their dream home. The wood used for the mantle was made from timber harvested from the Hornbuckles’ property. Leather sofas and ottomans with patterned throw pillows add a dramatic flair while the end tables are etched with the Texas star to complement the dining table and chairs.

A freshman at The University of Texas, 18-year-old Sydney’s room is both feminine and sporty. Her white wooden furniture offers the perfect contrast to the room’s gray walls and lavender bedding. A wall-to-wall shelf above her bed holds trophies and keepsakes from many of her favorite activities, like hunting, golfing, playing volleyball, dancing, and running track. Medals are strategically placed around her room, indicative of her love of sports. A crocheted swing hangs from the ceiling, offering her a place to retreat after competing all day.

A recessed ceiling adds elegance and style to the master suite. Velour bedding in shades of red and brown bring color to the four poster bed. A fireplace in the bedroom offers a place for Kim and Bruce to relax and escape. “It is well with my soul,” words to a popular hymn, are displayed on the bedroom wall. Cheery and bright, the adjoining bath contains a large walk-in shower and soaking tub. Numerous cabinets, tile countertops, and a built-in vanity area complete this practical space.

Located off of the living area is a custom patio and outdoor fireplace. Since the family is often busy and on the go, this area offers comfort and privacy for the Hornbuckles. A volleyball net is set up in the backyard for Sydney to perfect her game or just enjoy the outdoors with friends.

Kim and Bruce’s desire to breathe in fresh air and enjoy the sounds of nature has definitely come full circle as the beauty of the great outdoors is brought inside their rustic retreat. Focused on warmth and comfort, the simplicity of the Hornbuckles’ home meshes harmoniously with its country characteristics and rugged appeal.

from the industry pros EXPERT ADVICE

With spring right around the corner, many people turn their attention to starting (or finishing) those much needed home improvement and outdoor living projects. If you’re looking for inspiration or information from local and regional professionals, mark your calendar for this year’s Texarkana Home Builders Association’s Home & Garden Show which will take place from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, March 26. Open to the public, this year’s show will take place at Crossties Event Venue, located at 324 East Broad Street in Downtown Texarkana.

Builders, remodelers, home and garden suppliers, landscapers, and other related companies will take part in this Home Show. In addition, landscaping companies, lenders, and other specialists will offer expert advice to anyone who needs guidance on their home project. Whether you are thinking of building your “dream home” or

TEXARKANA HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

TO PRESENT ITS HOME & GARDEN SHOW MARCH 26

remodeling your existing home or planning long overdue maintenance, this show is the perfect opportunity to gather information and ideas while also learning about new products and services. Many new vendors will be present during this year’s show. “As of February 16, we have seven first-time exhibitors signed up, so attendees are sure to see something new!” states Adam Pettit, Executive Officer of the Texarkana Home Builders Association.

A large local attraction, this show offers consumers the opportunity to meet with many businesses that make up the building community ... and all under one roof. A special event this year, Farmers Bank & Trust will give away two $1,500 gift cards where recipients can spend them with any member of the Texarkana Home Builders Association. (The winners will be announced at the show.)

Chartered in January 1959, the Texarkana Home Builders Association is affiliated with the National Association of Home Builders. Its goal is to promote the local building industry through partnerships with its members. Currently, there are 29 members of the HBA, and general membership meetings are held every quarter. In addition, members enjoy giving back to the community by supporting local advocacy and education efforts.

Approaching the 30th anniversary of the Home & Garden show, the Texarkana Home Builders Association members appreciate the support of the Texarkana community. Anyone who desires to turn their home improvement needs into a reality should set aside time to attend this year’s Home & Garden Show. It is the place to be to meet with experts face-to-face, see the latest trends, and find valuable local services so you are equipped with the knowledge you need to build the home you’ve always wanted.

DESPITE HIS DISABILITIES, HARDING FRESHMAN

NICHOLAS WATSON EXCELS IN ATHLETICS AND ACADEMICS

Last year, Nicholas attained the highest GPA in Arkansas High School’s over-100-year history.

(Photo by John Bunch)

I’m my own ADVOCATE!

by ELLEN ORR

Harding freshman Nicholas Watson is not your average college kid. In 2021, he graduated from Arkansas High with the school’s highest-ever gradepoint average (4.8), which he earned while playing four varsity sports and volunteering regularly. He received over $1.5 million in scholarship offers and was accepted into 45 universities. He has been interviewed on ESPN and other national and international media outlets. His story regularly goes viral.

What makes Nick interesting to outsiders is that, when he was 4, he was diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and auditory processing disorder. He was nonspeaking until he was 6. Doctors told his parents that he would likely never read with comprehension or be successful in any math class. With this in mind, many would say that Nick has accomplished so much already despite his disabilities. In some ways, this is true; Nick has to work harder and longer than his peers. In a larger sense, however, Nick does not succeed despite his disabilities but with them. His neurodivergence is an asset—one of many he possesses.

As a child, Nick was all over the place, literally and figuratively. “Everyone said I was bouncing off the walls,” he said. “Plus, I had trouble transitioning to different [tasks], I avoided eye contact, and I was obsessed with sorting things. I only made noises and sounds my mom could make out. It’s crazy because I knew all my letters, numbers, shapes and colors by sight and could say ‘octagon’ when at a stop sign, [but] I couldn’t understand space,

timeframes, or the emotions of others, and I couldn’t perform multiplestep tasks. Even when I was given one task, I struggled to understand what was being asked of me.”

Parents André and Marian Watson enrolled their eldest at St. James Day School. “I had such wonderful teachers who always made me feel really special,” he said. “And I know that being one of 8–10 students made the difference. I think because we all remained in the same class [over multiple years], we all got to really understand and know each other. I didn’t have to keep reintroducing myself to new kids, and the teachers didn’t have to figure out how I learned. Everyone knew me. I was accepted for who I was, and I felt loved and accepted.”

From an early age, Nick benefited from various therapies, both during the day and after school. He played sports as a way to channel his hyperactivity into something safe and healthy. Evenings were spent reinforcing the concepts being learned at school.

“My mom says she spent a lot of money at the bookstore, trying to figure out how to help me,” Nick said. “My dad missed a lot of sleep because he worked graveyard and would have to take me to therapists after school, which cut into the time he was supposed to be asleep. It was a lot, and of course I never knew what was really going on. I do now.

“I really had a great childhood because I never really knew anything was ‘wrong’ with me,” Nick continued. “My parents created a world for me that was very positive. All the people in it were trying to help me and made me feel good when they were around. The world that was created for me to thrive in gave me the confidence I have today.”

After sixth grade, Nick transitioned to the Texarkana Arkansas School District. Leaving the bubble was not easy. “I had a strong learning

While in the fourth grade at St. James Day School, Nicholas received the Spartan Award, the highest honor a student can receive at the school. Pictured with him are: grandmother, Valerie Watson; grandfather, David Watson; father, André Watson; mother, Marian Watson; and grandmother, Mary Williams.

Nine-month-old Nicholas wrapped up in his favorite blue blanket.

While in the third grade at St. James, Nicholas dressed as a pirate for Character Day.

foundation, and I was still confident in who I was,” Nick said, “[but in junior high] I quickly realized and sometimes was reminded that I was different. That did not feel good. But I knew I could do the work, and I knew I was good at sports, so I focused on that. When I think back on some situations, I realize that my auditory processing delay, which at times I wished I didn’t have, is probably what protected me from a lot of things that could have really hurt and affected me.”

Nick’s so-called hyperactivity gave him the energy to play basketball and soccer, as well as to run track and cross-country. He thrived as an athlete from early on, and he garnered confidence from that. Plus, his parents realized that, as Nick learned to cope with the complexity and chaos of team sports, his executive functioning improved across the board.

Just as hyperactivity propelled him into athletics, it was Nick’s access needs—quieter spaces, fewer distractions, plenty of one-on-one time with his teachers—that drove him to sign up for AP classes throughout high school.

“When I entered public school, my mom realized that the classes were going to be bigger, which meant more distractions. That was the last thing I needed because it took everything just to take notes and listen to a lecture. I actually could not do it. I still can’t,” Nick explained. “When we realized the AP classes were smaller, and the student-to-teacher ratio was similar to the classes in private school, we set out to take as many AP classes as I could. Most kids avoid AP classes because they think they are hard. They may be, but in order to survive a classroom setting and connect with the teacher and concepts, I needed it quiet and distraction-free for the most part. AP classes gave me that.”

They also gave him the opportunity to earn 64 college credits and the highest GPA in AHS’ over-100-year history. “I never set out to be valedictorian,” he

Nicholas now attends Harding University studying electrical engineering and playing basketball.

continued. “I just did my work like any other student should. When we found a few years later that I was ranked at the top, we were like, ‘Hmmm, what if?’ I honestly never thought it was possible—and once I found out the valedictorian gave a speech at graduation, I was set on at least making a C or a D to get out of it. My mom didn’t care too much for that conversation and threatened to do horrible things to my limbs if I did that,” he laughed. “I just focused on doing the work. It wasn’t hard. It just took effort. No way do I think I’m the smartest kid in school. No way. But no one, and I do mean no one, ever outworked me.”

Nick is currently studying electrical engineering and playing basketball at Harding University, an experience which Nick describes as being “amazing, new, different, hard, and very stressful, all in one.” The self-advocacy skills, work ethic, and confidence he developed in Texarkana are serving him well in Searcy.

“I know my strengths and weaknesses at this point, and I’m my own advocate,” he said. “I still record my lectures and listen back to them when I get out of practice. I ask a lot of questions outside of class hours. So far, everyone has been so helpful. I still get nervous speaking because what I am thinking doesn’t always come out right when I speak. I still to this day have struggles with communication, but no one ever makes me feel bad about it. I’m just made different. Things

that come really easy to my peers and teammates don’t come as easy to me. I try not to question how I am made anymore. I know that once I get something, I’ve got it. It just may take me some time, and that is okay.”

The subject of so much attention over the last year, Nick feels pressure to continue working hard and making the most of his life—and he’s okay with that. “I don’t have a problem with being responsible or accountable,” he said. He often receives messages online from other neurodivergent people, as well as the parents of neurodivergent children, and he feels proud to be accountable to this community.

Nick was recently invited by Joel Osteen to become an ambassador of Lakewood Church’s special-needs ministry, Champions Club. He is also preparing to launch a website that he hopes will connect him with other neurodivergent young people.

“I’m giving it my all because there is an entire world of kids who are special and ‘au-some,’ and they motivate me,” Nick explained. “They need to know that being different is okay, that they are ‘au-some,’ and that we are gonna change the world. Basketball and academics matter so much to me. What also matters is knowing that I’ve helped and inspired so many people by sharing parts of my life that I was not always proud of. Today I am very proud to be ‘au-some,’ and I want [others] to be, too.”

The eldest son of Marian and André Watson, Nicholas was born July 2, 2002.

photo by THE HARSOCKS’ PHOTOGRAPHY

BACK TO HIS ROOTS

by LINDSEY MCMILLAN

DR. CHRIS TIMMONS SHARES HIS JOURNEY FROM BEING A YOUNG GUITARIST TO AN EXPERIENCED SURGEON

Dr. Chris Timmons joined Texarkana Surgical Specialists in July of 2021. He joins Dr. Mark Sutherland in the practice of General Surgery. He is eager to provide his patients with excellent care and attention, in addition to serving the community at large. A native of Bloomburg, Texas, Dr. Timmons was very excited to return to the ArkLaTex with his wife, Cheryl, and young son, Case. A graduate of Bloomburg High School, he attended Texarkana College for two years and then transferred to Texas A&M University in College Station. His father, Melvin, served as the mayor of Bloomburg for eight years and is retired from International Paper. His mother, JoKay, is a former history teacher and serves on the Bloomburg ISD school board.

Dr. Timmons became interested in medicine after working at Wadley Regional Medical Center in the Pathology Department. After graduating with a degree in Molecular and Cell Biology, he moved to Galveston, Texas, where he worked as an autopsy and research assistant. He attended medical school at Texas Tech University School of Medicine in Lubbock and at their Clinical Campus in El Paso. Initially pursuing a specialty in Pathology, he switched to General Surgery and after a one-year surgical internship at Vanderbilt University Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee, he completed his residency in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This included five years of training with the University

Dr. Mark Sutherland and Dr. Chris Timmons of Texarkana Surgical Specialists

of New Mexico Health Science Center.

After residency, Dr. Timmons practiced at Memorial Hermann Baptist Hospital in Beaumont, Texas, for two years. In 2014, he returned to New Mexico as a staff surgeon at CHRISTUS St. Vincent Regional Medical Center in Santa Fe. He served as the Director of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery for eight years and is proficient in conversational and medical Spanish.

Dr. Timmons welcomed the opportunity to return to East Texas to be closer to family and to join a private practice. He has extensive experience with the Intuitive Da Vinci Robot, which enables a patient to have various laparoscopic procedures. He performs a variety of surgeries including those involving endocrine neck/thyroid, hernia repair, gastrointestinal obstructions, appendectomies, and various biopsies. He also has training in trauma and acute care, treating patients at both Texarkana

hospitals and seeing them two days a week in the Surgical Specialists Clinic. He holds certification, training, and membership in many areas of general surgery. Just recently, he established privileges at Signature Care ER. His goal is “to treat every patient with utmost care and dignity. By utilizing minimally invasive procedures when possible, patients will experience as little discomfort as possible and can get back to the things they enjoy.”

Chris and Cheryl met 12 years ago when both were working in Albuquerque. They have two grown children who still live there. Daughter, Sydney, is newly married and works as a scientist in the Air Force. Son, Connor,

Chris holds certification, training, and membership in many areas of general surgery.

With a knack for building and refurbishing guitars, Chris pays homage to the state of Texas with this custom creation.

Chris and Case tube on the Animas River in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, in 2021.

recently graduated with a degree in Economics and has plans to attend law school. In addition to traveling to see family, they stay busy with their son, Case, who is 7 years old. He is a student at St. James Day School and just started Little League baseball.

Dr. Timmons is an avid guitar player and when younger, toured all around the state performing with his band, Deuces Wild. He also builds and refurbishes guitars and has an impressive collection of classical ones. He was living in Santa Fe repairing his own guitars and started investigating how to refurbish and repair. He also enjoys different home improvement

projects and being outside with his grill smoking barbecue for family and friends. He and his family love being back in the area and have enjoyed exploring the city and getting reacquainted with Texarkana. He notes how much the area has grown since he last lived here and likes the convenience and proximity to many things but retains a small town feel. He also looks forward to treating and caring for his new patients. Being a part of a completely private surgical group there are many opportunities for him and his colleagues to provide stellar medical care to those in need.

In 2016, Chris and his parents, Melvin and JoKay, enjoyed a trip to Cancun, Mexico. Cheryl and Chris with their grown children, Sydney and Connor, and young son, Case, while in Albuquerque in 2019. (Photo by Taylor Brooke Photography)

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

MAIN STREET

TEXARKANA PRESENTS DOWNTOWN LIVE!

Main Street Texarkana presented Downtown Live! on February 11 in Downtown Texarkana. The event featured artists painting, live music, food and drinks by downtown restaurants. Participating galleries included the 1894 Gallery and Joseph Raymond Fine Art.

Kim Hughes and Terri Gurley

Kevin Gerber and Jake Gerber

Jennifer Davis and Kaytlon Everitt

Brenda Hamby and John Dixon

Carie Bellanger and Brad Maples

Georgia Hubnik and Chris Thomas

Christopher Bachers and Debbie Nicholas

Polly Cook and David Thomas Kurt and Jessica Coppersmith

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

PHILLIPS FAMILY ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP ESTABLISHED AT UA HOPE-TEXARKANA

The Phillips Family Endowed Scholarship was established at the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana on February 17 by Dave and Judy Phillips of Emmet, Arkansas. Preference for the scholarship is given to a student pursuing a degree in Industrial Maintenance or Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning.

“We established this scholarship to recognize the educational accomplishments within our family,” Dave and Judy said. According to the couple, several family members have college degrees today, but that didn’t happen without challenges along the way. In fact, Judy was the first person in her family to graduate high school, and Dave’s father did not graduate high school.

“Our parents were very intelligent people, but they just did not have the financial help or people to advise them on how to find that help that is available today,” Judy said. “If our parents would have had help like this, there is no doubt they could have earned college degrees as well. We want to do our part to make financial help available to others who may be in the same situation.” Judy’s father went on to earn his GED, graduated from the police academy, and became a police officer. Dave’s father went on to start a successful electrical business.

The two were also the first members of their families to graduate college. Dave graduated from Troy State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in electronics engineering and a master’s degree in public administration while serving as an active member of the United States Air Force. “A scholarship sure would have helped a starving airman at that time,” Dave said. While following Dave throughout his career in the Air Force, Judy bounced around to five different universities before completing a bachelor’s degree in studio arts from Henderson State University. “I often jokingly tell people that it took me 40 years to finish my undergraduate degree, but in all seriousness, it would not have taken me near as long to finish if I had been able to receive scholarships to help pay along the way,” Judy said.

Dave and Judy’s accomplishment of graduating college set a standard for their family’s future. Their son graduated from the Community College of the Air Force and is now employed at Keesler Air Force Base. The couple’s daughter graduated from Henderson State University with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences with a Doctor of Medicine degree. “We know firsthand that the struggle to work and pay for college at the same time is real,” the couple stated. “Without scholarships to help our children along the way, it would have been much more difficult on them and us to earn college degrees.”

Anna Powell, Foundation Director, and Dr. Christine Holt, Chancellor, with Judy and Dave Phillips

photo by DR. ROBIN ROGERS

HOME ON THE RANGE

WITH HIS LOVE OF RANCHING, LAZY COLT RANCH OWNER CLAY SMITH IS THE PERFECT FIT AS AN ACTOR ON PARAMOUNT+’S HIT SHOW, “1883”

by AMBER E. WILLMAN

O give me a home where the buffaloes roam

Where the deer and the antelope play

Where seldom is heard a discouraging word

And the skies are not cloudy all day

Some folks are fortunate enough to know from an early age what their futures hold for them. For Clay Smith, this would be taking over the family’s ranch, Lazy Colt Ranch. Born and raised in Texarkana, Clay graduated from Arkansas High School in 1979. He attended Texarkana College and Texas A&M University-Texarkana.

A normal day for Clay begins at four o’clock in the morning. He feeds the horses, weaning calves, and main cowherd. Then he climbs on horseback and doctors sick animals, sorts cattle to be sold, fixes fences, checks water supplies, and a number of other ranching tasks that make up a full day’s work.

Where the air is so pure and the zephyrs so free

And the breezes so balmy and light

That I would not exchange my home on the range

For all of the cities so bright

Clay admits that he “got caught up in the moment” and had to have a souvenir pair of horses from the show, “1883,” so Louis and Dewey came home with him. (Photo by Dr. Robin Rogers)

be

cool,” but found himself dressed in an immigrant outfit and riding a draft horse. He said he would have preferred to be “sitting on a good quarter horse with a cowboy hat and looking respectable.”

But there was a time when Clay’s talents took him to far off places. Literally. In 1994, Clay attended the team roping national finals in Guthrie, Oklahoma. A recruiter for Disney was present and looking for folks who could work one of their attractions in France.

“If you hear me speak French, I can impress you,” Clay says. “But French people just kind of shake their heads. They understand my point, but I butcher their language.”

For nearly six years, Clay worked for Walt Disney Paris where he was a cowboy and stagecoach driver in “Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show,” a dinner theater that catered to audiences of 1,200 tourists at a time. But in October of 2000, Clay made the decision to return home and take over the family’s ranch.

“My father was getting older, and he had open heart surgery, so I came home to run the ranch so he could retire,” Clay says.

How often at night when the heavens are bright

With the light of the glittering stars

I stand there amazed and I ask as I gaze

Does their glory exceed that of ours?

Does any star shine brighter than that of a celebrity on the set of a television show? Texarkana’s homegrown cowboy had the opportunity to work on “1883” for a few months. The show stars Sam Elliott, Tim McGraw, and Faith Hill and follows the Dutton family’s journey west across the Great Plains. “1883” is a prequel to “Yellowstone,” a show made popular by Kevin Costner, Luke Grimes, Kelly Reilly, and Wes Bentley who is also an Arkansas native.

Clay had a friend who was working for the show’s production team driving teams of horses. Production went longer than anticipated, and some of the drivers needed to return home. There was a Clay-sized opening on the show. Although Clay did not have a speaking role on the show, he was a stagecoach driver in the background.

“One of the things that struck me was how nice and cordial and normal Tim McGraw and Faith Hill are. Every time they would walk past you on set, they made eye contact and said, ‘Hi, how are you doing?’ And it was genuine. Everyone on set really liked them.” Clay continues, “Sam Elliott

In 2020, Clay and his daughter, Morgan, rode horses in the mountains at Sandia Crest, New Mexico.

While working for Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show at Walt Disney Paris, Clay posed in front of the Eiffel Tower.

During a solo pack trip to the Pecos Wilderness in New Mexico, Clay navigated many canyons and rugged ridges.

Right after this photo was taken on the set of “1883,” Clay met one of his cowboy heroes, Sam Elliott. He wanted to

“cowboy

Clay (second from left) with part of the “1883” crew.

was there every day. Very pleasant, but I worked with a different group and not with his group that much.”

Home, home on the range

Where the deer and the antelope play

Where seldom is heard a discouraging word

And the skies are not cloudy all day

At home on Clay’s range, there aren’t a lot of deer and antelope, but there are plenty of cows and horses. Lazy Colt Ranch used to raise cattle and manage crop rotation in equal parts. Eight years ago, Clay made the decision to go all-in on cattle. The herd, which is raised for beef, has grown to 400 head including calves, yearlings, and bulls.

Clay also keeps 15 horses used for working cattle and occasionally team roping competitions. “I also ride mountain trails out west in northern New Mexico,” Clay says.

Sunrise is Clay’s favorite time of day, because it’s the most productive. He goes to bed when the sun goes down and rises at three. “But it does wreak havoc on my social life,” Clay adds. But it is all worth it when Clay is riding a good horse and gathering a good set of cattle into the corral to be sorted. “I have always enjoyed the western lifestyle, all my life. I grew up working on the ranch and loved it,” Clay says.

Sadly, Clay’s daughter, Morgan, doesn’t plan to take over the ranch. At 15, she has grown up on the ranch and certainly appreciates the lifestyle. An excellent horsewoman and an instinct for cattle, Morgan plans to go into Engineering. “She is a wonderful, well-rounded young lady,” Clays says. “Way smarter than her daddy.”

Home, home on the range

Where the deer and the antelope play

The deer and antelope might not be playing, but Clay is. He works hard and plays hard. When he can break away, Clay enjoys snow skiing and riding side-by-sides on mountain trails. He rides dirt bikes on back roads and has explored Arkansas, Colorado, and New Mexico.

Where seldom is heard a discouraging word

And the skies are not cloudy all day

“I don’t know what I would do if I wasn’t a rancher. I am not pretty enough to be a hired escort. I’m too nervous to steal anything.” Clay decides, “A travel guide. That’s it. I think I would make a good travel guide because I love to travel.”

Clay might have one tiny regret. “Hell yes! In the third grade, I had a crush on a little girl. I was too scared to even talk to her. I would go back and tell her how I felt,” he says. “I would speak a little softer and be a little nicer to people that I have been around. This work and environment will make you course over time.”

So many live a life of regret, missed opportunities, bad decisions, lost loved ones. That doesn’t seem to be the case for Clay Smith. Although ranching was his destiny, he has made room for everything else. He lived in Paris for a few years, runs a successful cattle operation, and marriage resulted in his favorite human, Morgan. Opportunities, decisions, love, and ranching, Clay has it all, at home on his range.

Autry, Gene. ‘Home on the Range.” Back in the Saddle Again. BMG Rights Management, 1966.

Not one to shy away from adventure, Clay rode his motorcycle up to Engineer Pass, one of Colorado’s best offroading areas. The mountain pass’ elevation is 12,800 feet above sea level and is located in Ouray County in Colorado.

Taking guests for a ride in his wagon during Texarkana’s Night to Shine was a memorable experience for Clay. This event offers a prom experience for people with special needs.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

THE EMMANUEL COLLECTIVE HOSTS GRAND OPENING

The Emmanuel Collective held its Grand Opening on February 17. Formerly known as Wisteria Salon, the space has been newly renovated and remodeled. Cocktails and appetizers were served, and members of the salon’s team enjoyed meeting all of the guests.

Kim Cody and Kennedy Cherry

Phyllicia Starling, Kelsey Hughes and Kimberly Bearden

John Michael and Kenzie Bullock

Eva Kathryn Johnson and Adalyn Bevill

Dee Anna Estes and Kaylea Wardlaw

Hailey Henna and Justice Vera

Morgan Hinman and Nikki Wilmoth

(bottom row) Morgan Hinman, Tyler Morgan and Delainea Hubbord; (top row) Megan Johnson, Lauren Gortney, Kenzie Bullock, Nikki Templeton and Lindsey Wilson

Lindsey Wilson, Lauren Gortney, Megan Johnson and Tracey Wardlaw

Penny Cobb and Katie Cobb

Stacey Williams and Stephanie Shaw

Experts Ask the

CARRIE TRUSTY

Director of Marketing, MRC Cornerstone Retirement Community

Am I or my loved ones really experiencing all the benefits of wellness?

It’s important to be aware of the dimensions of wellness that affect not just your body, but your mind and spirit as well. Taking a holistic approach to your wellness helps you be at your best by making everyday choices that cover your emotional, spiritual, social, occupational, intellectual, and physical well-being. Just like checking your heart rate or blood pressure, it’s also important to check your level of wellness in other areas, too. Contact Cornerstone to learn about how to take a holistic approach to overall well-being.

903-417-0326 | 4100 Moores Lane | Texarkana, TX | mrccornerstone.org

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

OPPORTUNITIES, INC. RECEIVES CHECK PRESENTATIONS FROM TEXARKANA KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS AND REGIONS BANK

The Texarkana Knights of Columbus recently presented a check to Opportunities, Inc. from proceeds the organization received during their 12th annual Red Beans & Rice Dinner. The $2,363 check will be used to further the mission of Opportunities. Opportunities also received a check for $5,000 from Regions Bank. These funds will be used toward the computer lab in the Adult Services program at Opportunities.

Mark Borgognoni, Corie Woodman, Dub Cooper, Sherry Young, Zachary Pianalto and Jerry McCoy

Clay Roberts, Sherry Young and Corie Woodman

THE ROAD Tra veled less

BY NICHOLE HOLZE

There’s a unique history surrounding Little Rock, Arkansas, that you may not know about. You may know that there’s an Air Force base there. You may also know that it was an important location during the Cold War, a difficult time in U.S. and World History. What you may not know is that at one time, there were 18 ICBM (intercontinental nuclear missile) silos surrounding the Little Rock area. They were Titan II missile silos that housed nuclear weapons on a Gemini rocket, designed to be launched into space in under one minute. By 1986, these sites were all decommissioned and destroyed. However, thanks to the ingenuity and tenacity of one person with a unique determination, one of those missile sites has been renovated into a luxury Airbnb that you can stay in!

Titan Ranch, located just northeast of Conway, Arkansas, is one of these nuclear missile bases. It has been painstakingly restored by GT Hill. The entire process of the opening, cleaning, renovation, and updating is documented on his largely followed Titan Ranch YouTube channel, and I highly recommend checking it out.

Our stay at Titan Ranch began with driving down the gravel road, leading between cow pastures, the reason for the name “ranch.” We met with Nick, one of the current hosts, who led us down the steps into the bunker. From there, we watched a video all about the missile base, the history and the long and difficult renovation. We were joined by GT who gave us an incredible tour. Take the time to ask questions and hear the stories. It’s worth it, I promise.

The rental space is inside what was once the crew quarters and missile launch control center. You can still see the places on the floor where the desks with the key slots sat when it was an active site. Level 2 of the “birdcage,” the steel structure suspended within the concrete silo, is a multipurpose space that during our visit had two guest beds for my children. Level 3 houses a full kitchen, projector, and party space. Level 1, the former crew sleeping quarters, is now the luxury master suite, with an incredible shower and “floating” king size bed. It also has its own coffee maker so there’s no need to go all the way down in the morning.

While I wouldn’t recommend this for small children, it’s certainly a bucket list worthy experience for adults and older children. There’s only a few places in the United States where you can tour a former nuclear missile silo, but only one with luxury accommodations where you can also host a party, and it’s only a few hours away. Unsettling as that history may be, it’s worth it just to say you did it.

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.

EVENTS | CALENDAR

MARCH 2022

MARCH 4

Harvest Regional Food Bank will present its Wine and Jazz Gala at 7 p.m. as Silvermoon on Broad. Presented by TEXAR, the event honors Norma Durrant, founder of the Wine & Jazz Gala. Expertly selected wines will be paired with gourmet dishes prepared by local chefs, live music will be presented by Candace Taylor & Trio, a premier silent auction will be held, and artist Joseph Raymond will be featured during a live painting. Visit: w ww. eventbrite.com/e/wine-jazz-galatickets-257966333247 for tickets or call 870-774-1298. All proceeds benefit the hunger relief programs of Harvest Regional Food Bank.

MARCH 5

The Texarkana Symphony Orchestra will present “Pops: Tony and Capathia Together” during a 7:30 p.m. performance in the historic Perot Theatre. Award-winning vocalists Tony DeSare and Capathia Jenkins will perform songbook classics, along with the TSO. Visit: www. texarkanasymphony.org for ticket information or call 870-773-3401.

MARCH 5

Texarkana Arkansas School District will host its Kindergarten Enrollment Event from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at the Arkansas Middle School. After March 5, please visit: www.tasd7.net or the magnet school of your choice to register your child.

MARCH 5

Temple Memorial Pediatric Center will host “Dancing with Our Stars” at 6 p.m. at Northridge Country Club. The annual event benefits the children who receive therapy at Temple. Call 903-794-2705 or visit: www. templememorialpediatric.com to purchase tickets.

MARCH 10

The University of Arkansas HopeTexarkana Foundation’s 15th Annual Beads, Bags, and Bangles Kids’ College fundraiser will be held from 6-9 p.m. at The Barn at Willow Oak Acres in Prescott, Arkansas. Theme of this year’s event is “Boatin’” and will feature live music, theme-related games, and shopping. Proceeds raised during the event will be used for scholarships and supplies to benefit the 2022 Kids’ College and Camp Save-A-Life programs. For more information, contact Anna Powell, UAHT Foundation Director, at 870722-8516 or anna.powell@uaht.edu or contact Dallas Gladden at 870-7228549 or dallas.gladden@uaht.edu.

MARCH 18-19

The 54th annual Jonquil Festival will be held at Historic Washington State Park to celebrate the arrival of spring in Southwest Arkansas. Arts, crafts, food, historic tours, and music will be featured as well as a fish fry and 5K run. Call 870-983-2684 for more information.

MARCH 22

Pleasant Grove ISD will host Kindergarten Registration from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Margaret Fischer Davis Elementary School. Contact 903838-0528 or visit: www.pgisd.net for more information.

MARCH 23

Open registration will take place at Williams School for Mother’s Day Out preschool, and Bridge to Kindergarten programs. Call 903-838-9517 or visit: www.williamsumc.org.

MARCH 26

The Texarkana Home Builders Association will present its 2022 Texarkana Home & Garden Show from

9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Crossties Event Venue. Crossties is located at 324 East Broad in downtown Texarkana, Arkansas. Email: txk.hba@gmail. com for more information.

MARCH

27

The First Baptist Church Texarkana will host Larry Sims Day. Activities will include 10:30 a.m. worship and a 2 p.m. reception. Call 903-831-6000 for more information.

APRIL

2022

APRIL 1-10

The 77th annual Four States Fair & Rodeo will take place at the Four States Fairgrounds. Visit: www. fourstatesfair.com for activities and ticket information.

APRIL 2

The 10th annual Ark-La-Tex Challenge will begin at 7 a.m. at Liberty-Eylau High School. Riders can cycle through three states in one ride while supporting Texarkana Resources for the Disabled. Register at: www.bikereg.com or visit: www.arklatexchallenge.com for more information.

APRIL

3

The Williams School of Williams Memorial United Methodist Church will host its third annual Walking for Williams at 3 p.m. outdoors on the church grounds. The afternoon will consist of a family warmup and walk for all ages, live music, carnival style games for kids, food, and refreshments. Call 903-838-9517 for info.

APRIL 3

Opportunities Inc. will present Sunday Funday from 4-9 p.m. at Crossties. The event will feature live music, drinks, and BBQ. Call 870-774-6134 for more information.

To have your event featured in four states living magazine, email suzyturner@fourstatesliving.com

APRIL

23

James Black’s Bowie Heritage Festival will take place in Washington, Arkansas, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The festival will celebrate James Black, the bladesmith who forged the first Bowie Knife for Jim Bowie in Washington, Arkansas, and will showcase a variety of Arkansas heritage crafts and trades. For information, go to the Visit Washington, Arkansas Facebook page or call 870-703-4826.

APRIL

29

The Oak Ridge Boys will perform at Hempstead Hall, located on the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana Hope Campus. For ticket information, visit: www.hempsteadhall.com or call 870-722-8565.

APRIL

30

Dot’s Ace Hardware will host Boomtown Border City Steak Cookoff. An SCAsanctioned steak cookoff, the event will be held outside of the hardware store, located at 3411 Richmond Road. Over $3,000 in prizes will be awarded to the best in each category. The event is free to the public to watch. To register for the event, visit: www. steakcookoffs.com/event-4490753 or call Devin Jennings or Lisa Garton at 903-838-0059.

A Pinch of Salt

by Donnie Spriggs

I’ve been in a brunch mood lately and have been looking at recipes and testing a few out when I have time. This one is a traditional type of brunch item, and I am positive it is something easy and can be fun to make. When I think of brunch the first thing that comes to my mind is … mimosas. But I don’t drink those, so let’s start off with a Bloody Mary recipe before we talk entrées, shall we? The best Bloody Mary mix to use is a brand called Revolution, and the only places I have been able to find it is Target or you can order it off Amazon.

When creating your Bloody Mary bar, the options are endless when it comes to picking the garnishes. A few of my favorite veggie garnishes are:

Lemons

Limes

Celery

Kosher pickle spears

Pickled beans

Pickled okra

Blue cheese stuffed green olives

Pickled jalapeños

1. Pour some steak seasoning onto a small plate.

2. Rub the juicy side of the lemon or lime wedge along the lip of a pint glass.

3. Roll the outer edge of the glass in seasoning until fully coated, then fill the glass with ice and set aside.

4. Squeeze the lemon and lime wedges into a shaker and drop them in.

5. Add the Absolut Pepper Vodka, Revolution mix, Tabasco, Worcestershire, black pepper, plus a pinch of salt along with ice and shake gently.

6. Strain into the prepared glass.

7. Garnish.

Now let’s do my favorite brunch meal! Frittatas are so simple to make, and you can pre mix these things the day before!

6 large eggs (use 8 eggs for a 12-inch skillet)

¼ cup unsweetened almond milk, or any milk

2 garlic cloves, minced ¼ tsp. sea salt, more for sprinkling

Freshly ground black pepper

Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling Spring veggies

4 spring onions, chopped

½ cup chopped asparagus

½ cup halved mini mozzarella balls

¼ cup crumbled feta

¼ cup chopped chives

Heat ½ tablespoon olive oil in a 10 or 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the scallions, asparagus, and a pinch of salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is tender but still bright green, about 5 minutes. Add the egg mixture, and gently shake the pan to distribute. Add the mozzarella and feta, and bake 15-20 minutes or until the eggs are set. Season to taste and serve.

Both pair so well together and make the best at-home brunch meal!

Follow me on Instagram @ pinch_of_salt20

Spriggs is

spring of 2021. He loves people but likes food even more, mainly because food makes people happy!

Donnie

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 graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M-Texarkana during the

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.

CARA COOK age: 45

Occupation: Nurse Practitioner

If you won the lottery, what is the first thing you would do? The first thing I would do is buy a new house.

When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you pass the time? I usually reply to text messages.

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

I would love to go back to a time when there was no internet or social media.

At what business could you max out a credit card? Lululemon.

Choose a movie title for the story of your life. “How Can I Help You?”

What are you currently watching on Netflix? “Selling Sunset.”

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

If you could only have three apps on your smartphone, which would you pick? Spotify. Instagram. Amazon.

What’s your favorite sport to watch, and which team do you root for?

My favorite sport is football, and I enjoy rooting for the Arkansas Razorbacks.

JUSTIN WHITE age: 44

Occupation: President and Commercial Loan Officer for Guaranty Bank & Trust Texarkana, Texas

If you won the lottery, what is the first thing you would do?

I would gift a large sum of money to my church and other organizations in Texarkana. Beyond that, I would make sure that my family would be taken care of for years to come. Once those categories are covered, I would then focus on traveling more.

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

If I have free time it is generally filled with volunteering throughout the community, or I am spending time with my family.

If you were allowed to have one wish granted, what would it be? I would wish for more time ... time that I could spend with family, friends, or making a difference.

At what business could you max out a credit card? Filson ... if you are not familiar, go check them out (Filson.com). If you love the outdoors and working hard, you will love their products.

Choose a movie title for the story of your life. “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

What are you currently watching on Netflix? “Big Bang.”

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

If you could only have three apps on your smartphone, which would you pick? I am very low tech. The three that I use most are Facebook, Instagram, and Pandora. “

What’s your favorite sport to watch, and which team do you root for?

I do not follow college or professional sports. I invest my free time hanging out with family, hunting, or camping with my three boys.

HOMEMADE + HOMEGROWN ”

TELL US HOW LONG YOU HAVE LIVED IN TEXARKANA AND WHAT YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT LIVING HERE.

I have lived in Texarkana for 42 years (minus the 8 years I was away at college). I enjoy the people and the community in Texarkana. The friendships I have here are the best! I also love that I have access to nature, hiking, and lakes nearby … I love the outdoors!

My family has been in Bowie County since the 1830s, and I have lived in Texarkana for 39 years. For those that know me, they know that I love the history of Texarkana and that I am a huge advocate for our community. I am so thankful for the opportunities that our community has provided me and my family. It is incredible to live in a place where you can still have a personal relationship with so many people. I can’t imagine living somewhere where you are just a number and are not connected to others.