Four States Living Magazine April 2022

ON THE COVER - APRIL 2022

Mural artist Darlene Taylor’s interest in art started when she was just 5 years old. Throughout the years, she has worked hard to hone her craft, and her visual creativity has afforded her the opportunity to produce colorful murals throughout the Four States area. The next time you travel downtown to eat at a restaurant or attend a concert or show, be sure and drive down East Broad Street and take a peek at this eye-catching mural Darlene painted on Knock on Wood Vintage Supply Co.’s storefront window.

See “Have Brush, Will Travel” on page 8.

Being an award-winning tattoo artist has taken Joaquin “Quin” Hernandez to places he never imagined

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

The Way I See It...

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Robin Rogers, Ed.D.

When I was a little girl, coloring books kept my attention for longer periods of time than other activities. I was meticulous about pressing hard with the crayons to get the most of the hues, and if the tiniest of marks went outside of the lines, I would crumble up the page and start again. Years later, I cherished my diaries with little locks on the covers, so nobody could read my secret dreams and fears or the mundane events of the day. I only wrote in pencil, so mistakes could be perfectly erased. I practiced cursive writing, on book covers, notepads, and my desks. Creating things that were pretty and perfect was important to me.

Fast forward a few years. Life, real life, happens. Marriage, children, food preparation, trash days, and heaven help us, WORK gets in the way. My childhood fantasy of perfection quickly dissipated.

Sure, there are amazing women who manage to do it all, or look like they do it all. You know the ones. Beautiful home and a perfectly manicured yard. Social media posts of the most amazing holiday meals presented on a table with fine China, set on gold chargers, with cloth napkins and all of the silver arranged correctly. When you see her out, her makeup and hair are perfect, her clothes appear pressed, and her shoes match her handbag. And, above all else, she is calm, cool, collected, and kind. These women are aliens to me.

I truly gave up on the perfectionism thing by the time I was 20. My first real job – full-time, out of college, with a desk – was in sales. I loved it! I could talk to people all day about products I respected, and when they bought, I got paid. I met so many nice people during that time. But, I was all about the people, and I really didn’t use

Four St ates Living

INSPIRE THE PESSIMIST

ELEVATE THE OPTIMIST

STIR THE MIND

ENTERTAIN THE SOUL

the physical office very often, so the organization of that space was horrible. I knew where everything was, but it looked like a tornado came through. If you are wondering, my car looked the same. My apartment looked the same. Messy was my middle name, but I was carefree and fun. Well, the owner of the store came in one day and noticed my mess. How could this young girl be leading in sales and work in an office that looked like that? The owner was not at all happy with me. He told my boss that he (my manager) had three choices: get her to clean her office, clean her office, or fire her. The next day, I came in to work, and voila! My fairy God-manager had worked his magic in my office; papers were organized, the shelves were decorated, and the faint smell of Pledge could be detected in the air. I was so pleased that my office looked like it had its very own janitor. What on earth had happened? And then, my sweet manager explained his predicament. And guess what? I was horrified and embarrassed. My mess was so appalling to the owner that he wanted to fire me! And my manager didn’t want to hurt my feelings or terminate me, so he cleaned my space.

After that, I did better with the presentation of my office, but I really don’t think I was as productive for the owner while I organized brochures. In sales, offices don’t sell anything. People do. That has been my motto since buying Four States Living almost three decades ago. Our offices could be anywhere, as long as our customers were seen, heard, and helped. We go to customers; thankfully, my customers don’t see my office anymore, and if they do, I can joke about my own “creative process.”

I don’t color inside the lines anymore. Unlike the

PUBLISHER Dr. Robin Rogers

EDITOR

Suzy Turner

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Kim McMurry

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Victoria Herman

FEATURED COLUMNISTS

Nichole Holze

Velvet Hall Cool

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jennifer Jordan

Lindsey McMillan

Vicki Melde

Ellen Orr

Lisa Porterfield Thompson

Amber Smith Zaliski

Amber E. Willman

women I still very much admire, I don’t cook, do much with my hair, or wear makeup. And, while I own fancy dishes and cloth napkins, we use Chinet and paper towels because the cleanup is faster, and we can get to the games more quickly after the meal. Having fun takes time, too, and balancing it all is just too much for my single self to handle. Honestly, I’m probably single because I kick off my shoes at the front door or inside the door or by the refrigerator, and that’s where they stay until I need one of those pairs or the housekeeper comes; I’m really a mess. Did I say thank goodness for hiring a housekeeper? Well, that’s the trick to being the most healthy, messy adult and a functioning head of household. Make sure you hustle enough at work to hire the housekeeper. Many creative people (and I include myself in that category) need a little help, so the paints don’t ruin the countertop, or the sandwich we ate only half of last week while writing doesn’t grow mold and start to smell. Trust me on that.

As for kids, encourage them to sing out loud, shoot photos and videos, write, cook, finger paint, dance, rock the drums, and even decorate their own rooms. You never know when you might have a Mae Estes, Joaquin Hernandez, Darlene Taylor, Gabriel Henk, Emily Graham, Brandon Thrash, or Cynthia Tyous in your presence!

This month has been my dream month with interviews and photos of artists from our community. I can say that I’ve met all of these creative geniuses (true talents), and we should keep our eyes on them. Their stories are to be savored, so I hope you read about them all. Enjoy, y’all, and have a wonderful April. 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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HAVE BRUSH, WILL TRAVEL

AN INCREDIBLY TALENTED MURAL ARTIST AND COSTUME DESIGNER, DARLENE TAYLOR’S GOALS ARE TO TRAVEL ALL OVER THE WORLD, PAINTING AND SHARING HER ART WITH EVERYONE

photo by DR. ROBIN ROGERS

by LINDSEY MCMILLAN

Darlene Taylor’s business card reads, “Have brush, will travel” and that she does. A woman of many talents, Darlene stays busy most days painting murals across various state lines, designs and sews elaborate historical costumes, and works with many groups throughout Texarkana. An assistant at the Regional Arts Center, Darlene greets visitors with a big, welcoming smile ready to give exhibit tours.

TRAHC and the African American Council just completed a lovely selection of fabrics in an exhibit labeled “The Fabrics of Our Lives,” which is the twentieth regional celebration of African American artists. Darlene also served as a guest lecturer for this exhibit. Each piece on display is rich in detail, history and storytelling. Darlene is very proud of being a part of this exhibit since one of her creations is on display, a quilt she made with her husband’s ties and other sentimental fabrics. Darlene is an artist who is in tune with her work, and when she creates, whether it’s a mural or a costume, she does so with gusto and incredible talent.

Darlene’s history in art goes back to when she was just 5 years old when her mother sat her down with the comics and asked her to draw them. She recalls drawing for hours, just recreating the pictures from the comic strips. Taking an interest in art early on enabled her to continue her education which encompassed some sort of visual creativity. A graduate of O.D. Wyatt High School in Ft. Worth, Darlene entered the Army for two years after which she enrolled in the Dallas Institute of Art where she focused on studying Graphic Design and 3D Animation. She was recruited by her brother-in-law to begin work at a television station in Haltom City, Texas, to be their commercial graphic artist/designer. She stayed in this position for several years, and then became the Program Director when the station became Black Contemporary Television.

Darlene moved to Texarkana in 2009 and worked simultaneously at Lowe’s and Julie’s Deli while also spending time with her son, Derrick Crane, her only child.

Darlene created this mural at Hippie Soul, located in Idabel, Oklahoma. The inside and outside of the entire building is painted to resemble “Alice in Wonderland” scenes and Vincent Van Gogh’s style.

Darlene’s painting brings color and contrast to her kitchen window.

She recalls how she and her two younger brothers grew up with a strong single mother and drew her own strength as a single mother from this upbringing. Her mother, Charlene, passed away in 2014. Working at Julie’s instilled in her a very strong work ethic, and for this, Darlene credits owner and friend, Julie Furlow.

Darlene is grateful for the endless support and love as she moved into her career as an artist. One day while working at Lowe’s, a friend and coworker introduced Darlene to her father, and they hit it off. Despite their 23-year age difference, Darlene and Andy Taylor seemed to be made for one another and were married in 2018. Andy passed away very suddenly in 2019 which was a devastating blow to Darlene.

One day in 2020, Darlene was busy painting the outside of their house when a Texarkana Gazette writer drove by and noticed what she was doing. A gorgeous mural of sunflowers took up the side of the house which Darlene reported simply needed to be painted, and it had taken on a life of its own. From that point on, as a way to express herself and deal with the grief of losing her spouse, Darlene began painting many murals for organizations, businesses, and others who saw her work on social media and in local publications. She has stayed busy since January of 2021, practically working non-stop. She recalls how hard it was to leave Julie’s Deli after becoming like family with her coworkers but she said she had the best support of friends for her new endeavor. Her first professional job was creating murals at El Frio Express and the Hideout for her friends, the Wrights. Now, she has many other murals across Texarkana and surrounding areas.

One trademark of her murals is what she calls her “Tiny Andy,” which is a hidden sketch of him sitting under a tree or spelling out his name somewhere in the painting. She has so many special memories with him, particularly ones where they dressed in Renaissance costumes. Stitching many different Victorian dresses and outfits for Renaissance fairs is another talent of hers which goes back to 2000 when she first attended the Scarborough Festival in Waxahachie, Texas. She and a group of friends attended every year and became a part of the Royal Guard at the fairs.

Darlene began making the elaborate, detailed costumes for the different roles they played during the fair. She would spend a year getting them ready for an upcoming event and was involved with the Texarkana Renaissance Fair for seven years. Her wedding to Andy was actually Renaissance themed for which she sewed all of the attendants’ clothing, as well as hers and Andy’s. She says she is contacted frequently to make a costume or special outfit for someone but has to turn them down due to her busy painting schedule. She travels quite a bit for commissioned work, and some of her upcoming projects include painting murals for the police station in downtown Texarkana, Arkansas, one in Waldo, Arkansas, and another one in Shreveport. She also enjoyed doing face painting at the Viking Faire in Jefferson and will serve as a judge during ComicCon at Crossties May 14-15 where

This original Darlene Taylor mural is painted on the side of the M&M Tire and Auto building, located on North State Line Avenue.

Darlene and Andy were married on September 9, 2018, and she wore her own design which has been featured in two arts shows.

Knock on Wood Vintage Supply Co.’s storefront window in Downtown Texarkana features one of Darlene’s murals.

she will also have a booth. Her murals are located throughout the ArkLaTex and surrounding areas such as De Queen, Atlanta, Idabel, Horatio, Tyler, Camden, Hope, and Glenwood. She is also often asked to be a guest artist during various community events.

Darlene not only takes great pride in her work but in helping the community. She has been very active with providing art for the Tough Kookie Foundation which raises money to fight breast and childhood cancers. For such contributions she won the TRAHC Art Heroes Award. She works with TRAHC’s ArtsSmart program, providing two-hour sessions for three days during the summer for children in grades 1-8. She has also been a part of the Pin Up for Vets where she designs and makes period costumes. After school on Wednesdays at Texas Middle School, Darlene works with students on artwork, particularly cartooning. Other accolades she has received include the Arizona Cleaver Stamens Award which is sponsored by Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority. Local news station KTAL also featured her art during Women’s History Month and commentary honoring remarkable women.

Darlene describes herself as being an artist who is spontaneous, meaning she does not have a set pattern or plan but creates as it comes to her. In particular, when completing a mural for a client she will take in the details that they want, and without a sketch or design she will just create as she goes. This plays a big part in her work, and she usually will not stop once she begins, even if it includes painting for hours on end without a break. When asked what her goal as an artist is and what she wants others to learn from her work she responds with, “I would like to be everywhere, all over the world to travel, paint, and share my art with everyone.” Her mother taught her at an early age to try to learn something new each year, and Darlene heeds this advice each year on her birthday. When she’s not busy creating, Darlene spends time with her son, daughter-in-law, Jennifer, and her two granddaughters, 4-year-old Lacy and 3-year-old Aria Ann, or “AA.”

Darlene credits many friends and peers in the art community. In addition to her mother and Andy, another role model is her friend Cathy Brown Smith. Darlene adds, “She [Cathy] worked so hard to bring Be The Blessings to life. She did it to help those around her. I want to do the same with my art. Whether through my charity work, teaching kids at schools, or presenting at lectures, I want to make an impact in people’s lives.” Other local artists and friends serve as inspirations to Darlene and includes Jes Weiner, Christopher Bachers, and Jenny Stevens. She loves admiring other artists’ work and emphasizes how much talent is in this area. Other local favorite works are by Polly Cook, Joseph Raymond, and Mary Jane Orr. She says that Texarkana artists serve as her greatest inspiration. Since she’s always striving to learn something new, one art form she wants to improve in is small canvas work. For now, Darlene’s creations are big and impressive, from sides of buildings to fabrics, and her talent is like her personality, fun and infectious.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

BEADS, BAGS, AND BANGLES KIDS’ COLLEGE FUNDRAISER

The University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana Foundation held its 15th annual Beads, Bags, and Bangles Kids’ College fundraiser on March 10 at The Barn at Willow Oak Acres in Prescott, Arkansas. Theme of this year’s event was “Boatin’,” and attendees were urged to wear their best water-related or boatin’ attire. Activities of the evening included live music, theme-related games, a drawdown, giveaways, 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. These programs are designed for students who will be in first through eighth grade.

Peter Kha, Leigh Quillin, Jennifer Cunningham and Don Hollanger

Clay and Megan Lance

Tanya Alvarado, Aley Mendoza and Angelica Manzanares

Marla Bush and Edgar Duenas

Leasly Rangal, Stephanie Mendoza and Nancy Shanks

Jenifer Smith and Dr. Christine Holt

(front row) Suzie Barham, Mikki Curtis, Anna Powell, Jennifer Tyree and Allison Wilson; (back row) Kim Hollis, Kathy Struckman, Christi Whitlock, Allison Sitzes, Debbie Malek and Laura Clark

Hyacinth Deon and Margaret Moss

Taylor Jester, Monica Holston and Callie Fore

Mikki and Casey Curtis

Kathy Struckman and Kim Hollis

photo by DR. ROBIN ROGERS

CHURNING OUT Sugary Perfection

EMILY GRAHAM, OWNER OF GRAHAM SLAM BAKERY, USES HER VISION AND TALENTS TO CREATE MASTERPIECES

FOR HER SWEET SHOP

by LISA PORTERFIELD THOMPSON

Emily Graham is exactly what you want your baker to be. She’s bubbly and bright-eyed, kind as can be, and you can tell creativity oozes from her brain. She stands at the counter precisely decorating tiny masterpieces while we talk. Her shop smells of sugary perfection, the lights are warm against the drizzly weather outside, and the décor surrounding us is lively and inviting. When you walk in the door of Graham Slam Bakery at 112 Pine Street downtown, you automatically crave something sweet. It’s impossible not to.

Emily’s career as a bakery owner started when she was a stay-at-home mom to her now 9-year-old daughter, Sydney. “I’d just had a baby, my husband worked full-time at Ledwell as a welder, and I needed a hobby, badly,” she said. “I was obsessed with cookie decorating videos on YouTube. I could sit and watch them for hours, and eventually I decided to try it for myself. I have always loved to draw and doodle, even as a kid, and eventually that turned into decorating cookies, first for myself, then for the public in 2015.”

In the beginning, Emily called her cookie decorating a hobby, but she recalls a time that her creations were too pretty to eat. “Some of the first orders were hard to let go,” she said. “I was just so proud of them. I didn’t even want to deliver them. I know at least one of my cookies made it to a shadow box after a first birthday party for a client, and it’s held up this whole time. It’s nice to think about my work being preserved.”

In 2019, Emily made the leap to lease a building from Amanda Horton downtown, and the rest is history. “We were very busy that first year,” Emily recalls. “We’d have lines down the street some days, and our business just kept growing from there. We offered a whole lot of decorating classes and had so much fun.”

About a year after opening her doors to the public, Emily’s business took a hit along with the rest of the world, when the pandemic began. “We had to downsize our employees, because our shop was closed completely for a while during the height of COVID,” she said. “We tried curbside for a

while, but the whole experience of a bakery is important. We needed our customers to see and smell and take it all in.”

So, Graham Slam Bakery focused on social media engagement and building a customer base. Those dividends have paid off enthusiastically, to the tune of about 18K followers. “Most of our audience, like 85%, are women between the ages of 25-55,” she said. “And so, it’s important for us to stay trendy. I follow a lot of online boutiques and Texas-based businesses for inspiration. I read tons of memes and digest a lot of pop culture to appeal to our audiences better each day. I want to provide cakes and cookies that people love.”

And she’s doing just that. From cookies inspired by the most recent Disney movie, “Encanto,” to paint-your-own kits, holiday themes and cookies with funny sayings, Emily is constantly churning out cookies and cupcakes and cakes that Texarkana loves. She also hosts decorating classes about once a month now and teaches her love of decorating to anyone who wants to learn. “It’s a fun activity to do with friends or by yourself,” she said. “I think it’s relaxing and provides a creative outlet that isn’t painting or drawing exactly.

Since 2018, Emily has been shipping cookies nationwide and has even made cookies for Tiger Woods several times. In this photo, she puts the finishing touches on a recent cookie order.

It’s not stressful, because if you mess up, just eat it.

“If I wasn’t doing this, I’d probably be in marketing” Emily said. “I love social media. Really, I love to be social. Getting to know the community and the people I’m baking for is my very favorite part.”

Emily and her husband, Anthony, spend 40-50 hours a week at the store, and another 15-20 answering inquiries, ordering goods, promoting, and taking orders. “Anthony is the master caker,” she said. “When I moved the business downtown and opened my own space, he realized quickly that it was a lot and said, ‘I have to help.’ He quit his job and has been our biggest asset since Day 1. He’s the best cook ... really the best at everything he does.”

Emily was born in Texarkana, and raised in Ashdown, Arkansas. She attended St. James Day School for nine years, and she and Anthony both graduated from Texas High School in 2005. After high school, Emily went to the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville to become a Physical Therapy Assistant but moved back home to be closer to family. She and Anthony married in 2012 and found out they were expecting their daughter later that year.

“Sydney is very interested in the bakery life,” Emily said. “She’s super creative and artistic, loves to draw. She’s a little bit bossy and sassy, kind of like me, and when there’s an order to be made while she’s around, she wants to do it herself. She says when she grows up, she wants to be a vet first and a bakery owner second. During the pandemic, she came up here to the shop with us, and Anthony cooked her fancy bakery breakfasts, and she brought her laptop for schoolwork. She didn’t know anything had changed—she was just living the good life.”

As she looks forward, Emily says she has been focusing on expanding her wedding business. “We participated in the Bridal Fair for the

When Emily won “Best Christmas Cookie in America” in December 2017, she visited with “Good Morning America” anchors Robin Roberts and Michael Strahan on the set.

Emily admits that her daughter, Sydney, is her “why” in life. Here, they enjoyed having brunch in Downtown Texarkana.

Emily and Anthony with their friends, Kim and Jeff Greening, owners of the Dragon’s Den in Genoa, Arkansas, catering a private party event. The two couples are the best of friends and have a Supper Club once a week to try out new dishes and desserts.

first time this year,” she said, “and it really paid off. We’ve booked several weddings. I told Anthony I’m really going to push him in that area, and he’s already done so many great things. I was very nervous at first, that the brides wouldn’t like what I brought to the table, or that we wouldn’t reach our intended audience, but we’ve had a very positive response.”

As relatable as that fear may be, Emily has already had a lot of experience with positive responses. In 2017, Emily won a baking and decorating contest on ABC’s “Good Morning America” and was named the 2017 Christmas Cookie Showdown winner. “I applied to compete, and when I received a call inviting me to New York, they asked me if I could get on a flight in less than 48 hours with seven dozen decorated cookies,” she said. “It was quite a whirlwind.”

Building on that success and notoriety locally has come very naturally to Emily in the family-owned business. “We’d eventually love to have our own space, a bigger space to spread out a little,” she said. “Right now it’s pretty tight, especially in the kitchen, but we’re very into brunch around here lately, and I’d love to have a true bakery set-up and sell more than just confections.”

Emily’s advice to other hobbyists who dream of turning their pastime into a hobby is to keep doing the thing. “Just keep on going,” she said. “Be consistent and persistent and do the hard things every day. You do have to show up and work, but just know that you won’t be perfect, and you will fail at something eventually; you just can’t give up.”

As simplistic as that may sound, it seems to have worked for Emily and Graham Slam Bakery. When they’re not running a wildly successful business, Emily, Anthony, and Sydney enjoying golfing as a family and traveling.

Emily used many texture tricks and tips when she made this recent Moana cookie creation.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

HARVEST REGIONAL FOOD BANK HOSTS

WINE AND JAZZ GALA

On March 4, Harvest Regional Food Bank hosted its 16th annual Wine and Jazz Gala at the historic Silvermoon on Broad. Food and wine was enjoyed as Candace Taylor & Trio provided musical entertainment. Presented by TEXAR Federal Credit Union, the event honored Norma Durrant, founder of the Wine & Jazz Gala.

Expertly selected wines were paired with gourmet dishes prepared by local chefs Jennifer Tanner, Julie’s Deli & Market; Bri James, Twisted Fork; Hector Jimenez, Verona; Darby Neaves, Naaman’s Championship BBQ; and Becky Williams, Benchmark American Brasserie. The evening also featured a premier silent auction and a live painting by Texarkana artist, Joseph Raymond.

All proceeds benefit the hunger relief programs of Harvest Regional Food Bank which serves over 60,000 individuals in 10 counties each year through a network of nearly 100 partner agencies, pantries, shelters, and soup kitchens.

Clayton and Magan Wisdom

Derrick Durrant and Melinda Faires

Norma and Fay J Durrant

Chris and Lorie Owen

Michelle Shores and Camille Wrinkle

Christie Page and Dr. Brian Matthews

Aaron and Kayla Lewis

Cody Graham, Jonathan Matlock and Ryan Lathrop

Yulin and Jerry Brewer

Glenda Smedley and Geraldine Haskins

Todd and Caroline Cumbie

Chase Beebe and Caroline Thomas with Brad and Crista Thomas

Becky and Robert Bunch

Josh and Rachael Potter

Doni and John Phillips

Justin and Kelli White with Adam and Emily Tripp

Stephanie Oluoha, Brittany Hard and Casie Fischer

Megan Smith, Lorie Owen, Laura Homan and Kelly Mitchell

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

ATLANTA EDUCATION FOUNDATION’S BLUE JEANS & BLING

The Atlanta Education Foundation held its annual fundraiser, Blue Jeans & Bling, on February 12 at the Crossties Event Center. Presenting sponsors of the event were State Bank and the Tony Buzbee Law Firm. Approximately 275 people attended the event, including community members, local business sponsors, AISD administrative staff, and the AEF board of directors. Tacos 4 Life catered the event, and this partnership provided 600 meals to hungry children. A silent auction was held, along with a Diamond Raffle donated by Micah’s Jewelers, and a Card Raffle with prizes from Flint’s Furniture and Price Hardware. A live auction was held by auctioneer Shelby Crump. Musical entertainment was provided by Lane Bricker, along with MC and DJ Shannon Jones. Pre-party hor d’oeuvres were catered by Jodi Garrison, Kelly Joslin and Holly Primrose.

A nonprofit organization, the Atlanta Education Foundation was formed in 2010. A diverse group of women and men of all ages and backgrounds, each volunteer brings their own set of talents, perspective, knowledge and skills to the table. The goal of the group is to enrich teaching, inspire learning, and enhance opportunities to meet the mission of excellence in education for all Atlanta ISD students.

Jeff Peace, Tony and Lesa Asbille, Melanie and Jeff Harris and Terri Peace Ashley Douglas, Terri Peace and Cheyenne Wiggins

Brooke Giesler, Jennifer Cox and Sara Heath Susan Tidwell, Leigh Stanley and Lauren Gibson-Crumpler

Dr. Lanny Giesler, Brianne and Jason Harris and Travis Ransom

Dr. Cody Giesler, Nate McWilliams and Dr. Adam Cox

Lauren Giesler, Brooke McWilliams and Jaci Price

Dr. Cody Giesler, Dr. Adam Cox and Skeeter Ammons

Brooke and Josh Allen

Lauren Gibson-Crumpler, Dee Ammons, Lauren Gilbert, Jaci Price and Brittanie Lowery

Brooke Ward, Terri Peace, Brittanie Lowery and Alaina Hamilton

Chastity Hale and Jan Olivares

Bhavin and Jessica Pastakia with Emily and Travis Ransom

Jennifer Cox, Chastity Hale, Brooke Allen and Brooke Giesler

Dr. Eric and Leigh McCall

Travis and Emily Ransom

photo by DR. ROBIN ROGERS

BRINGING Artistic Visions TO LIFE

BEING AN AWARD-WINNING TATTOO ARTIST HAS TAKEN JOAQUIN “QUIN” HERNANDEZ TO PLACES HE NEVER IMAGINED

by AMBER SMITH ZALISKI

Step after step after step – slower at times, but increasingly more determined, a detour here or there, but always moving forward – Joaquin “Quin” Hernandez has been forging his own path as an award-winning tattoo artist and avid tattoo collector for over a decade. A surprising start has taken Quin to places he never imagined, and ultimately has brought him back home to a new beginning, full of new ideas.

As a highly sought-after tattoo artist specializing in black and gray realism and owner of the recently opened Black Pines Gallery, Quin is passionate about bringing his artistic visions to life and excited to offer upscale tattoo experiences, for artists and clients alike, in the place he has chosen to call home.

Quin always knew he wanted to do something with art but didn’t have a clear vision of what, exactly, or how. “My grandmother is an artist and art teacher, and I was the first grandchild, so she started me very young – she was kind of militant about it, actually,” Quin laughed. “But it didn’t take too long to realize I had some natural talent and that I enjoyed it.”

As a kid, Quin would gift drawings to his family and friends and later realized he could turn his talent into money. “I started selling drawings to kids at school, and it was great because I could afford to buy all the best junk food at lunch. That always made me feel good, just being able to earn that myself.” After high school though, Quin remembers feeling kind of stuck. “I

didn’t know what direction to take. I was just living moment to moment.”

And then one day, several pieces fell into place – just not in a way that Quin had ever imagined. Within a couple weeks, Quin went from never having been inside a tattoo studio, to working as a tattoo artist. “My intro to tattooing was so sudden. It really just fell into my lap,” he said, “but I fell in love with it from the very beginning.”

For the first three years as a working tattoo artist, Quin had no tattoos. “I definitely got weird looks, questions, and had some people refuse to be tattooed by me because of it. Luckily, I’ve never been a person that is easily pressured into anything, so I waited. I was kind of late to Instagram, but it immediately opened up a whole world of new artists and introduced me to a level of tattooing that I didn’t even know was possible. It definitely inspired me to not only get better at my craft but also inspired the beginning of my tattoo collecting journey.”

Quin spent several years in Dallas working, learning, and eventually getting the first of many tattoos. “I found an artist that I really admired and wanted to work with, and then I found out he had a nine month wait list, so I had to keep waiting,” Quin laughed. “I realized pretty quickly though, that was a short wait for the caliber of artists I wanted to get tattooed by. As a collector, I’m seeking out the best artists I can find. Even more than the content of the art, I really enjoy the connection and the process.”

While teaching a seminar in Dallas to artists from all over the country, the students watched and learned Quin’s methods and later applied that knowledge by tattooing on synthetic skin while he supervised. (Photo by James Blair)

and approximately

During two separate sessions and approximately 16 hours total, Quin created this Native American portrait for a soldier stationed in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Eleven sessions (each 6-8 hours long) were needed for Quin to complete this back piece for a financial advisor from McKinney, Texas. He recalls that the project took around two years to complete and approximately a total of 60-70 hours. The client also had another 90-100 hours of work on other parts of his body.

After his first tattoo, Quin got tattooed once a month, every month, for three years. After that he slowed down a lot but continues to get tattooed frequently. Quin’s journey as a tattoo collector has taken him coast-to-coast, and he has accumulated roughly 337 hours of work from 16 worldclass artists – an investment of roughly $75,000. “I realize that is probably shocking to some people, but as an artist and a collector, it’s something I personally understand from both sides. It’s an investment I believe is worth making. I learn so much each time I get a tattoo. I look at it as a souvenir from that moment and that artist.”

Quin has plans to complete a full body suit, and while there is still some stigma, especially around being heavily tattooed, Quin sees that changing as modern tattooing continues to elevate the art form. “I think social media, especially, has really opened the door for tattoos to be more accepted for everyone in all walks of life. It’s like a fashion statement, especially for the younger generation.”

Quin’s clientele is as varied as the tattoos for which he is sought out. From professional athletes, to social media influencers, to tattoo collectors, to doctors and lawyers and youth pastors, clients travel to Texarkana from all over the states and other countries to work with Quin. “I do a lot of portraits, lots of animals, and landscapes. Basically all the same things I loved to draw growing up.” Quin said that he doesn’t have any stand-out favorite tattoos and that he is always honored when someone trusts him to add his work to their body. “People get tattoos for all kinds of reasons, sometimes just for fun or for the look, and other times people come in, and they have very intense stories, and it is a deeply emotional session, even for me. The most memorable tattoos I’ve created are the ones I’ve done for my family – for my siblings and for my dad. I will never forget that feeling.”

While Quin has lived in Texarkana for more than half of his life, he admits that it took a while before it felt like home. “My family moved here in August of 2000 from a beautiful city called Queretaro, just north of Mexico City. I was almost 12, and it was ... a shock. It was so different from home, and, I can’t lie, felt like a downgrade,” Quin laughed. Now, as a 32-year-old husband and father, artist and business owner that has traveled extensively, Quin is happy to be settled in Northeast Texas. “In my late 20s, I finally started thinking about the future, and making goals for myself. It felt very natural to come home to Texarkana. I craved the stability and the structure. I wanted to be able to raise a family and build something of my own.”

With his wife, Sabrina, and their three children, Sofia, Oliver, and Emma, Quin appreciates the pace of life that our still small-ish town affords, and at the same time is excited by the potential.

Black Pines Gallery, both an appointment and walk-in tattoo studio, opened to the public in October 2021 and is located at 803 College Drive in Texarkana, Texas.

During two separate sessions

16 hours total, Quin created this Native American portrait for a soldier stationed in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

“I love our mornings at home when we are just cooking breakfast, playing with the kids, playing outside. That time is really important to me. We do love to travel – we love hiking, the mountains, snowboarding, new landscapes – sometimes we joke that Texarkana is ‘headquarters,’ but it’s also home. I’m proud to have clients travel from all over, and we try to show them the best of what we have here. I think there are lots of opportunities, especially for the artistic community, to continue to grow.”

After so many steps down the path, a decade of dedicated work, Quin eventually reached a clearing and was able to see a new vision, with all of the pieces falling into place in a way he could clearly imagine. “I was outside one night by myself just staring at the dark silhouettes of pine trees to gather inspiration for artwork ... that’s where Black Pines was born.”

Quin opened the Black Pines Gallery in October of 2021. The same kind of world-class tattoo experience that Quin seeks out has shaped his vision for Black Pines. “I love being at the studio, and I love that I get to be creative every day. I am so thankful for everything that I have learned along this journey and for everything that tattooing has given me,” Quin said. “My goal is always to pour myself back into the work and into the art. The art is the motivation for me.”

Quin’s wife, Sabrina, and three children, Sofia (6), Oliver (4), and Emma (8 months) attending his sister Fernanda’s wedding during November 2021 at Four Fifteen Estates in New Boston. (Photo by Makayla Jones)

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

TEMPLE MEMORIAL PEDIATRIC CENTER’S “DANCING WITH OUR STARS”

Temple Memorial Pediatric Center held its annual “Dancing With Our Stars” event on March 5 at Northridge Country Club. Dancing, dinner, and a silent auction were the activities for the night. Volunteer dancers included Jaclyn and Josh Thane; Brian Matthews and Tamara Demery; Ayden Howard and Andrea Smith; Haley Crocker, Kacie Kirkland and Meagan Harris; Kasey Coggin and Braxton Langdon; and Jennifer Smith and Ronald Makaramba.

Three awards were given in the following categories: People’s Choice – Braxton Langdon and Kasey Coggin; Judges Choice – Jennifer Smith and Ronald Makaramba; and Best Costume – Andrea Smith and Ayden Howard.

Les Munn, Gina Parish, Felicia Horn, Stephanie Barrett and Matt Wilson

Brenda Reid and Kelli Mayo with Raya, Leann and Kevin Goldman

Rendi and Dr. Josh Wiggins

Dr. Brian Matthews and Tamara Demery

Jennifer Smith and Ronald Makaramba

Kacie Kirkland and Brandi Vickers

Emma Thomas, Temple’s Kid of the Year 2021 Raya Goldman and Darby Arnold

Nat Franke, Hannah Foshee, Mike and Pete Mankins, Hayden White and Sarah Foshee

Haley Crocker, Gayle Burrow, Kacie Kirkland and Megan Harris

Temple Staff – Collin Forbes, Kelli Mayo, Gina Parish, Chesley Iglesia, Lori Duncan, Sandy Varner, Darby Arnold, Ariel Edwards, Jessica Wright, Myrtis Hooks, Sydney Hill and Emma Thomas

Andrea Smith and Ayden Howard

Josh and Jaclyn Thane

Braxton Langdon, Blaire Barlow and Kasey Coggin

Megan Brown, Collin and Kelsey Kuhn, Connor and Whitney Ribble, Michaelyn and Torin Marracino, Tyler Brolo, Megan and Tyler Griffin

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

TEXARKANA COUNCIL OF GARDEN CLUBS HOSTS BOUQUET OF GARDEN CLUBS

The Texarkana Council of Garden Clubs hosted the third annual Bouquet of Garden Clubs on March 11 in the fellowship hall at Williams Memorial United Methodist Church. This event gathers all local garden club members together for lunch, contests, games, and visiting with friends.

Kathy England and Lon Waters

Georgette Duke, Susan Gunter and Debbie Washington

Beverly Tye, Janella Garrett and Judge Sherry Jackson Hawkins

Laura Penny and Sheryl Stiles

Beth Pesek and Sandra Tipton

Belinda Lum, Pat Woods and Judy Klimaszewski

Shirley Baker, Bonnie Wilson and Rosemary White

Traci Walker and Pat Arnold

Doris Morris and Jean Bratton

CHEF BRANDON THRASH PROVIDES HOSPITALITY, PUTS SMILES ON PEOPLE’S FACES, AND GIVES HIS ALL TO HIS CRAFT

by

photo

DR. ROBIN ROGERS

Providing Hospitality Is In His Blood

by JENNIFER JORDAN

The term “culinary arts” is defined as the preparation, presentation, and serving of food. Underneath this basic definition lies much more. As any cook can elaborate, cooking is both an art and a science. Not only do chemistry and mathematics come into play to prepare a dish, but the creation and delivery of a recipe from start to finish is a true art form.

For professional chefs, the skills necessary to produce meals both flavorful and presentable on a regular basis, for multiple guests, can take years to hone. This career is not for the faint of heart. It requires long hours in a hot kitchen, the flexibility to handle problems quickly, and the courage to fail and get back on your feet. However, as Brandon Thrash can tell us, the rewards are worth it.

Currently the executive chef at the Texarkana Convention Center, Brandon has learned a lot in over 20 years of cooking for other people. Growing up in Ashdown, Brandon states that “providing hospitality is in my blood. I’ve always been one who loves to put a smile on people’s faces.”

After graduating from Ashdown High School, Brandon earned a culinary degree with honors from Sullivan University in Louisville, Kentucky. He moved to Louisville at the age of 20 “with no real kitchen experience,” he comments. “After arriving, I began working at Napa River Grill with the intention to learn each and every station in the restaurant. I was able to master all stations in that kitchen aside from sauté. My thought was that if I was going to be in charge of my own kitchen someday, I ought to be able to handle even the busiest of nights by myself.”

This perseverance earned Brandon a place at the renowned Polo Grill in Tulsa, where he eventually became Chef de Cuisine. While at the Polo Grill, Brandon and his fellow chefs hosted several Friends of James Beard events. His most exciting experience occurred around this time when the Polo Grill was one of 20 restaurants in the nation to celebrate Julia Child’s 90th birthday. This event gave Brandon “chill bumps.” He recalls, “Julia simulcast to each of the restaurants, thanking them for participating. She might as well have been standing directly in front of me as the hair on the back of my neck stood up.”

While in Oklahoma, Brandon also served as the private chef for Richard and Lindsay Roberts of Oral Roberts University. He began teaching in the culinary arts program at Oklahoma State University. During his three-year tenure at OSU, Brandon enjoyed being featured with Arista Winery at a James Beard House event in New York City. Soon after, Brandon was called home to begin a culinary arts program at Texarkana College. He served in this role for six years, becoming the Director of Culinary Arts.

Brandon then extended his teaching skills to the Culinary Institute at Faulkner State Community College in Alabama for a few years. Sharing his passion for the culinary arts with students and novice chefs has helped Brandon learn “how to deal with people, motivated and nonmotivated, passionate and not.” His personal motto can serve to guide young chefs as

Brandon prepares salads for a special event at the Texarkana Convention Center.

photo by DR. ROBIN ROGERS

they navigate their way in a kitchen: “In essentials, unity; in nonessentials, diversity; in all things, charity.”

Brandon recalls the advice of his friend and fellow chef, Robert Merrifield. “Robert has been an outstanding mentor to me in food, work, life, and spirituality. He took me under his wing as a young chef and taught me what it was to be a better person. He used to say, ‘Brandon, it takes 30 years to get a third Michelin star, it only takes one bowl of soup to lose it. You’re only as good as the last meal that you served.’ No pressure, right?” Brandon quips.

At the Texarkana Convention Center, Brandon’s breadth of experience enables him to oversee a staff that prepares daily meals as well as caters large events in a variety of cuisines. For his personal cooking, Brandon “tends to favor Indian and Thai curries, but I like to think of myself of somewhat versatile in any type of cuisine. Whenever I am cooking ethnic cuisines, I try and hold true to the traditions of the cuisine and elevate the dish so that it is a celebration of what has been given to us by others.”

When someone else cooks for him, Brandon savors braised beef short rib. “I had my last Thanksgiving meal sitting directly in front of the Colosseum in Rome ... that was a pretty awesome meal,” he remarks. When cooking for himself, Brandon really enjoys the world of “Garde Manger,” which involves the curing, preserving, and smoking foods under a refrigerated process. Brandon adds, “I also forage mushrooms throughout the year. Morels in the spring, chanterelles in the summer, and a handful of others over winter. Walking along the creek side looking for Nature’s free candy is very rewarding.”

In the wake of the apparent recession of COVID-19, Brandon maintains a positive outlook for the culinary world. “This too shall pass. Diners will return,” he asserts. “Restaurateurs will recover. We’ll probably never have a new normal again, but a new version of normal.” In this new version, diners in Texarkana can look forward to delicious fare created by a chef who gives his all to his craft.

Brandon always enjoyed serving Bo and Donna Rasmussen who often dined at Windcreek Casino in Atmore, Alabama.

Brandon with his team and mentor, Robert Merrifield, at the James Beard House.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

JONQUIL FESTIVAL 2022

The 54th annual Jonquil Festival was held March 18-19 in Historic Washington State Park. Activities included arts and crafts, food, historic tours, 5K run, fish fry, musical entertainment, a 4H BBQ chicken cookoff, Four States Iron Munchers demo, and a TexArk Antique Auto Show & Rusty Wheels Engines.

Roger and Diane Davis

Ed Talley and Chris Adam

Kelly Bobo, Tony Patterson and Kyle Rowe

Jonathan Wilson and Rodrick Murray

Joe May and Shelia Ballard

Lori and Robert Tibbet

Lynn and Sy Lanthrip with Chloe Russell

Jackie and Bobby Taylor

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

FOUR STATES LIVING MAGAZINE’S BEST OF TEXARKANA 2022 WINNERS

Four States Living Magazine recently presented plaques to the winners in the Best of Texarkana™ Readers’ Choice Awards to congratulate them for being selected for this honor. Ballots were placed online at www.fourstatesliving.com during December. The top five finalists in each of the 41 categories were listed online through January 25. Participants then voted online for their choice, and the winners were named. Congratulations to all finalists and winners!

Jason Eppinette Construction – Jason and Kerry Eppinette

Four Fifteen Estates – Shelby Stephens

Crocker’s Jewelers – Shelby Purifoy, Kay Marshall, Marion Criddle, Melissa Douglass, Shane Woodruff, Karen Bearden, Rebekah Smith, Amanda Humphrey and Amanda Henderson

iJumpTrampoline Park & Adventure Sports –Glen Bingham

Chick-fil-A® Central Mall – Jordan Morrow and Ashton Stevens

Chef on the Run – Jeff Loving

Ruth’s Flowers – Leenetta Tyler

CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) – (front row) SeSha Daniels and Hannia Martinez; (back row) Kaleigh Dodson, Jessica Kelley, Ana Willis, Emily Green, Misty Honea and Jaylynn Garcia

Gusano’s Chicago-Style Pizzeria – Joey Smith

Ironwood Grill – Jodi Thomas and Korie Kjellander

Pop’s Place – Alan Reid and Billy Lee

Naaman’s Champioship BBQ – Darby Neaves and Naaman Neaves

Bodcaw Bank – Cody Deal, Amanda Connor, Rebecca DeVasier, Natalie Copeland, Kelly Fatherree, Jennifer Miller and Hunter Burleson

Best Artist – Mary Jane Orr

Paw Paw Patch – Tavo Cruz

Red River Credit Union – Patricia Cunningham

The Dugout – Amber Miller and Kenzie Rigdon

Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery – Bill Scurlock and Haley Stokes

Farmers Bank & Trust

Redbone Magic Brewing, LLC – Roger and Debbie Sheppard

Blessing Allison Photography – Blessing Allison

Luna Mexican Grill – Josue Jonathan Morelos, Jonathan Mendoza and Leonel Garcia

Planet Fitness – Tom McElroy, Tyler Foster and Caitlyn Jackson

Eagle Dental Center – (front row) Haley Crow, Meredith Farris, Shea Garner, Kirsten West and Nicole Fischer; (middle row) Kelly Bailey, Kelly Wisdom, Mary Collin Corbin, Elena Pena, Brianna Hancock, Dr. Punit Patel and Ashton Huntze; (back row) Lindsey Cummings, Noche Harris, Marisol Eaton, Laken Zink, Harley Rochet, Sydney Estes and Dr. Rob Levine

Twice As Fine Texarkana Wine Festival – Terrie Arnold with Mark and Cathy Van Herpen

The Beauty Barr – (front row) Ashley Allday and Taylor Barr; (back row) April Yeager, Shanna Gosa, Aimee Houff and Samantha Stokes

Julie’s Deli & Market – Abby Sanders, Lauren Lathrop and Sam Ward

Cornerstone Methodist Retirement Community – (front row) Ruby Old and Jackie Rehkopf; (back row) Lisa Westerman, Dede Jefferson, Carrie Trusty, Britany Gavriel, Pat Nance and Dorothy Langdon

Crossties – Joe Gay and Les Munn

Texas Roadhouse – Ashely Simmons, Grace Douglas, Francy Martin, Mackenzie May, Deven Ferguson, Anna Murphy, Breana Helms and Joseph Iims

CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System

Eternal Beauty Medical Aesthetics – Keshawn Cornelius, LaQuesia Whitney, Jordan Felker, Elizabeth Jacobsen and Heather Nalepa

Ashley Furniture HomeStore – Wil Garrett, Garrett Trim, Joselyn De Dios, Caitlin Collins, Carla Shoemaker, Tammy Shetler and Lori Terry

Williams Day School – (front row) Melissa Grace, Allison Thomas, Lorie Son, Sarah Hall, Pollyanna Ferguson and Karen Tipton; (back row) Blanca Diaz, Michelle Sorensen, Teresa Scrivner, Laurie Booker, Mendy Crumpton, Marilyn Buck, Brenda Thomas, Michelle Madrid and Meagan Cedillo

Kelli Ashbrook State Farm – (front row) Holly Young, Kelli Ashbrook-Cummings, and Alejandra Bass; (back row) Sarah Kirkenmeier, Joseph Carter and Carmen Shoup

Fan Fare Gifts & Boutique – Kaycie Fowler, Jess Sparks and Katie Shepherd

Lone Star Family Medical Clinic – Tammy Miller, Miranda Baugh, Samantha Harris and Samantha Hughes

Ross & Shoalmire, PLLC – John Ross and Lisa Shoalmire

Freeman Landscape – Kaity, Jude, Jason, Krissi and Moriah Freeman; Brent, Carder and Lissa Freeman; Megan, Nora, Tim and Callie Lewis; Marshall, Wesley and Summer Freeman

Chick-fil-A® Richmond Road – (front row) Pam Wood, Cori Robinson, Alena Estes and L’Ana Boone; (back row) Wallace York, Craig Brown, Justin Flowers, Colby Estes and David Snow

Thank you to Four States Living Magazine’s readers for voting for your favorites in this years’ Best of Texarkana™

BEST OF TEXARKANATM 2022 WINNERS

CHOICE AWARDS

BEST PIZZA

Gusano’s Chicago-Style Pizzeria

BEST PLACE FOR LUNCH

Ironwood Grill

BEST COCKTAIL

Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery

BEST BURGER

The Dugout

BEST SEAFOOD

Flying Burger & Seafood

BEST STEAK

Texas Roadhouse

BEST COOKIES, CAKES, PIES OR SWEETS

Julie’s Deli & Market

BEST MEXICAN

Loca Luna Mexican Grill

BEST CHICKEN

Chick-fil-A®

BEST PLACE TO TAKE AN OUT-OF-TOWN GUEST

Redbone Magic Brewing, LLC

BEST PATIO DINING

Pop’s Place

BEST BARBECUE

Naaman’s Championship BBQ

BEST ARTIST

Mary Jane Orr

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

Blessing Allison

BEST FLORIST

Ruth’s Flowers

BEST GIFT SHOP

Fan Fare Gifts & Boutique

BEST CATERER OR CHEF

Jeff Loving – Chef on the Run

BEST FURNITURE STORE

Ashley Furniture HomeStore

BEST BUILDER/CONTRACTOR/REMODELER

Jason Eppinette Construction

BEST HAIR SALON

The Beauty Barr

BEST JEWELER

Crocker’s Jewelers

BEST LAW FIRM/ATTORNEY

Ross & Shoalmire, PLLC

BEST LANDSCAPE COMPANY

Freeman Landscape

BEST PET GROOMER

Paw Paw Patch

BEST DENTAL CLINIC

Eagle Dental Center

BEST PLACE FOR BOTOX OR FILLERS

LoneStar Family Medical Clinic

BEST CHARITY EVENT

Alzheimer’s Alliance Tri-State Area –

Twice as Fine Texarkana Wine Festival

BEST NONPROFIT GROUP

CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates)

BEST WEDDING EVENT VENUE

Four Fifteen Estates

BEST PLACE FOR LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Crossties Event and Wedding Venue

BEST PLACE TO GET FIT

Planet Fitness

BEST INSURANCE AGENCY

Kelli Ashbrook State Farm

BEST PRESCHOOL

Williams School

BEST PLACE TO GET PAMPERED

Eternal Beauty Medical Aesthetics

BEST PLACE TO WORK

CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System

BEST CREDIT UNION

Red River Credit Union

BEST PLACE FOR KIDS TO PLAY

iJump Trampoline Park & Adventure Sports

BEST NEW BUSINESS

Bodcaw Bank

BEST BANK

Farmers Bank & Trust

BEST DOWNTOWN DESTINATION

Zapata Mexican Grill & Cantina

Flying Burger & Seafood – Chris Gavriel, Brian Daugherty and Ethan Houff

Zapata Mexican Grill & Cantina – Bob Lavay

&Passion Purpose

AUTHOR CYNTHIA TYOUS’ HOPE IS TO INSTILL CHARACTER AND FAITH IN THE NEXT GENERATION

by AMBER E. WILLMAN

Passion and purpose. Two ideas that define life. Most people are lucky to discover one of them. But sometimes a particularly blessed individual will find both.

Cynthia Tyous was a teenager when she found a passion for writing. She was taking care of her mother and spent time journaling. She knew in her heart that she was meant to be an author. “I knew I could connect with the young and the young-at-heart through book form and take my audience on an adventure,” Cynthia said.

Her mom was her hero, and after both parents passed when Cynthia was a teenager, the need to journal her thoughts and feelings was overwhelming. “My mom was the epitome of, ‘be the difference you want to see.’ She exemplified love, peace, and sharing; but most importantly, she was a positive example.”

At the time, Cynthia couldn’t see that God was carrying her through the experience. He was keeping her mind and physical strength. He was showing her how to help the next person. Cynthia relied on the words of the Serenity Prayer. She was taking life one day at a time and trying to trust Him through the grieving process.

Cynthia had found a passion for writing, and God was preparing her for a future as a published author. Passion and purpose.

In 2011, after several rejection letters from traditional publishing houses, Cynthia stepped out on faith and self-published her first children’s book, “Can Pink Elephants Fly?” “It teaches that we are different, but we keep our own individuality, and we are all special,” Cynthia said.

Years passed, and Cynthia’s second book sat on a shelf collecting dust. “My season of doodling children’s books fizzled for a moment.

I focused on encouraging the youth I came in contact with every day,” she explained. But as Maya Angelou said, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”

“Sometimes in life, you don’t see the light in yourself until someone else shines the light on you and tells you your own story. I always try to encourage others daily, giving to them what has been poured into me,” Cynthia said.

Last month, Cynthia self-published her second children’s book, “God’s Closet.” The book teaches love for your neighbor, community service, and encourages everyone to follow their dreams. Although Cynthia writes children’s books, kids are not her only target audience. She writes in hopes of sharing an encouraging word with parents, schools, community leaders, and youth groups.

Writing for children can be difficult. There are many age groups, and the voice changes significantly from one year to the next. “If you are not careful, your writing could cross age groups. This means the voice of the character could sound like a 3-year-old and an 11-year-old in the same manuscript, and you must choose one to write for,” Cynthia explains.

But it is just part of the writing process. Typically, this process takes a year or so. Cynthia’s ideas for books come from her daily journey. They come to her as she spends time with the youth at church and as she works in the school and community. Fresh ideas are jotted down as a book. She will doodle the idea on paper and then move it to the computer. Once the story is flowing, she will dictate. Tweaks and re-tweaks lead to a polished manuscript. Children’s books have illustrations which help to tell the story along with the penned words. Illustrations are an artistry of work, and it takes time to complete them after the manuscript is finished. “I always want my book to be heartfelt and heartwarming. I always encourage everyone to be the difference they want to see,” Cynthia said.

Every writer is influenced by the work of other authors. Cynthia credits JaNay Brown-Wood, Matthew Paul Turner, Vashati Harrison, Matthew A Cherry, Rita Williams-Garcia, Jacqueline Woodson, and Lupita Nyong. But “God’s Closet” is her favorite book. “It connects with the family. Mom is a great example for her daughter, and Catharyn shares love just like mom has demonstrated to her daily. ‘God’s Closet’ teaches that kids matter, and they do make a difference,” Cynthia explained.

Maya Angelou also said, “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive, and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” Cynthia has worked hard to create an authorial voice and brand that encompasses these characteristics. “My authorial voice is unique because I cover heritage that is handed down from generation to generation, positive relationships, family connections, home life, friendship, and love for others,” Cynthia said.

During her Book Launch Party for the release of her new children’s book, “God‘s Closet,” on March 12, Cynthia had a read-along with kids to encourage the youth to read and to show them that reading with a friend is fun!

Since she loves capturing every moment with her daughters, this photo was taken of Cynthia and Aleecia, Pearlyna, and Meleighsa at their home after Easter Sunday church service.

Cynthia and her husband, Reginald, attending their niece’s wedding in Little Rock. Cynthia admits that family is so important, and making memories is the greatest aspect of her life.

In memory of Cynthia’s sister, Catharyn, the Know Your Worth Scholarships are given out to youth in the community to help prepare them for college. The conference encourages youth to “know their worth.” This photo was taken of Cynthia and her nieces and nephews during the Catharyn Burton Know Your Worth Memorial Scholarship Conference.

Cynthia’s brand expands on this ideal. She hopes to connect with families and communities. She wants to inspire everyone through heartwarming words and illustrated children’s books. “My creative pen writing style molds stories that are inspired by family, heritage, and life lessons. The brand that I portray inhabits cheerfulness and love for the next person. I write purposeful books to encourage love and build confidence through literature.”

Cynthia’s own confidence, like her passion and purpose, are founded in her faith and her family. Her husband, Reginald, is her champion and her greatest supporter. He is by her side daily to motivate and uplift her. “Every day with him is, ‘You can do it!’ You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you,” Cynthia said.

Among her greatest accomplishments are the birth of her daughters. Her family motivates her to keep putting her passion to paper.

Both publications, “Can Pink Elephants Fly?” and “God’s Closet” are available for purchase on amazon.com. Cynthia connects with fans at book signings, author visits, Q&A with youth groups, youth connections, and social media. “I want to encourage you to never stop dreaming and believing in yourself. Stay tuned, the next book is in the making. Follow me @authorcynthiatyous,” she said.

Cynthia’s own dreams are still in the works. She wants her books to touch lives. She strives to be the editor’s pick, the teacher’s pick, and to be in the top 100 selling children’s books. She wants to be sold in all major bookstores, breaking sales records online. She would love for one of her books to be turned into a family movie to inspire all.

For Cynthia Tyous, passion and purpose are a legacy of family and faith. As Reverend Billy Graham, one of the greatest ministers of the twentieth century, said, “The greatest legacy one can pass on to one’s children and grandchildren is not money or other material things accumulated in one’s life, but rather a legacy of character and faith.”

Cynthia’s character and faith are driving her passion and purpose. Her passion and purpose are to instill character and faith in the next generation. That is the circle of life.

COUNTRY MUSIC

ARTIST MAE

ESTES PURSUES

HER PASSION

AND MAKES HER DREAMS A REALITY

DREAMS DON’T WORK UNLESS YOU DO

by VICKI MELDE

With talent search shows such as “American Idol” and “The Voice” so popular, some young people are under the impression that simply having musical talent or being in the “right place at the right time” is their ticket to success. Rarely does someone identify their passion at a very early age and have the maturity to know how hard they will have to work to make their dreams a reality. Mae Estes is one of those rare individuals.

Born in Magnolia, Arkansas, and raised in Hope, Mae would appear to have been a typical teenager – serving as a cheerleader and riding horses and participating in rodeos. A good student, Mae also described herself as being “very social.” “I went to college on an academic scholarship and was a first-generation college graduate with honors and a member of several organizations/extracurriculars,” Mae shared.

What sets Mae apart is not only that she began singing publicly at the age of 7 – her first performance was of the national anthem before a rodeo in her hometown of Hope – but she knew at that young age that she would have to put in the work to accomplish her goal of a career as a country music artist. Perhaps that is an innate part of Mae as she admitted that she’s always been in love with country music. “For as long as I can remember, music is what holds me together,” she explained. “It’s the one thing that reminds me who I am amidst all things forever changing. Even at 7, I noticed a connection with the audience when I sang where we both felt so seen when we shared a song. I’ve been chasing those moments ever since.”

photo by

BENJAMIN MARTIN

Chasing those moments meant performing at every venue she could from age 7 – with her parents happily transporting her – to setting off for Nashville, Tennessee, just after college graduation in 2015. Mae moved by herself to Nashville and continued to pursue her passion – country music. She was quick to admit that although she made the move alone, she couldn’t have done it without the support of her family. “My parents and family (which includes younger sister, Jordan, and new nephew, Lincoln) supported me from the very first note I sang and made me believe I had as good a chance as anybody else at making my dreams come true in Nashville.”

Finishing college in Arkansas and facing the many hardships of moving to Tennessee alone presented significant challenges for Mae. “My motto was, dreams don’t work unless you do,” she recalled. “My childhood (and still) best friend, Jordan Arrington, framed and gifted that quote to me the day I left for Tennessee. It has hung on my wall through several highs and many lows in my time in Nashville and still hangs there today. I think it still rings true.”

In addition to the strength Mae draws from her family and friends, she is inspired by artists like Keith Whitley, Lee Ann Womack, Alan Jackson, Miranda Lambert, Ashley McBryde, Cody Johnson, and others. “I’m inspired by authentic artists who make me feel what they’re singing about and believe the stories they are telling,” Mae added.

Her commitment to authenticity has led Mae to a love for writing her own songs. “I have recorded ‘outside’ songs, written by other songwriters and support artists doing that so much,” she noted. “But I do also love to write songs myself, and the majority of my releases are co-written. I just try to pull from things I’ve observed or lived. I challenge myself to see the situation for what it is and not how I think it should be – resulting in some ugliness in my lyrics.”

Mae recently got to headline her very first show at Hempstead Hall – a beautiful venue in her hometown of Hope. “This was my first ticketed show to a theatre – and one without food or alcohol,” she stated proudly. “We had such a great turnout still. It was such a special night. I look forward to coming back

Band members Dustin Benson and Josh Matheny (originally from Magnolia, Arkansas) performed with Mae during the 2022 National Hockey League Stadium Series game in Nashville.

and selling it out someday!”

Another highlight of Mae’s career occurred in 2021 when she was honored as Female Vocalist of the Year at the Arkansas Country Music Association Awards. “I also got to perform my song ‘Recycled’ with my co-writers Josh Matheny, Autumn McEntire, and Hannah Blaylock at the awards and that was such a special moment,” Mae remembered. “My family also got to attend the event because it was so close to home. I’m honored to be nominated in the same category again this year.”

The future appears extremely bright for this hard-working, dynamic country artist. While Mae is perfectly happy with where she is in life, she admits she would welcome a little more stability in the music industry. “I’m happily married to a man (Chad) who is truly more than I could dream up, and I get to write songs for a living,” she shared. “I hope to have an EP released in the near future and build my Maeniac Family (her fan base) even more by releasing new music and connecting with people who can relate. For now, I’m trying to live in each moment as they come! I look forward to achieving more goals as the years go by, but so thankful and unbelievably blessed for everything that’s come my way so far.”

Gratitude is a significant aspect of Mae Estes. She openly expressed thanks to everyone who supports their favorite local/independent artist. “We truly live off your generosity of sharing our posts, liking our posts, streaming our music, buying our music, buying tickets to our shows and being in the audience, buying merchandise, or telling your friends. Thank you for playing such a big part in the music industry!”

So, what wisdom would Mae share with a young person who aspired to follow their passion of music? “I would tell them that if they had 100% thought through all the possible things that could (and probably will) go wrong and they still want to chase that dream without a doubt – then give it all they’ve got and go for it! Making a musical passion your career isn’t for everyone and everyone should decide that for themselves. It’s harder to maintain the organic joy music

During the 2021 Music City Grand Prix, which winds through the heart of Music City, Mae performed for the crowd. (Photo by Marisa Taylor Photography)

brings when you try to monetize it by building a career around it. Just follow your heart and work hard every day.

“I truly believe God won’t tie your soul to a dead-end dream.” (It sounds as if that might just be the catalyst for a great country song …)

Experts Ask the

CARRIE TRUSTY

Director of Marketing, MRC Cornerstone Retirement Community

Does an elder in your life struggle with loneliness?

You may know or be one of the 42.6 million older adults who experience loneliness due to isolation caused by shrinking social circles, loss of spouses/loved ones, or mobility challenges.  The lack of social relationships can be as dangerous as smoking on health and overall wellness.

Being socially connected can improve your quality of life by slowing cognitive decline, improving cardiovascular outcomes, along with many other health benefits.

Having an environment that can provide the fellowship of friends who can offer companionship, activities, and fellowship is a great step toward a full and connected life.

Mae and her husband, Chad, at the Arkansas Country Music Awards in 2021.

Mae recording new music in the studio at Omni Sound Studios in Nashville. (Photo by Marisa Taylor Photography)

EIGHTEEN-YEAROLD GABRIEL HENK CONTINUES TO DEVELOP HIS FILMMAKING CRAFT AND MASTERFULLY BUILD A CAREER DOING WHAT HE LOVES

photo by PRANATI KANDI

These posters are from three short films Gabriel directed which really helped him grow as a filmmaker and as a person, in general.

A Creative FOUNDATION

by ELLEN ORR

Eighteen-year-old Gabriel Henk makes films. As he comes from a family of creators, it should be no surprise that he too feels the undeniable drive to craft and share the stories he sees, both in the world and his imagination. Undoubtedly, creativity is in his DNA, but Gabriel’s widely acclaimed films reflect a specific artistic vision that is uniquely his.

Gabriel’s foray into filmmaking was not happenstance. “My grandfather, (the late local artist) Charlie Cook, tried getting me into filmmaking from a very young age,” he said. Although he wasn’t toddling with a camcorder as a small child, he dove into the craft headfirst in his early teens. “I would watch the behind-the-scene [footage] of famous films and YouTube videos of filmmaking tips and tricks . . . before testing them out myself,” he recalled.

When he was 15, Gabriel’s mother (local artist Polly Cook) enabled him to attend a filmmaking course—“an intense filmmaking bookcamp,” he clarified— in Hot Springs: the “Inception to Projection Filmmaking Program,” offered by Low Key Arts, taught by Jennifer Gerber (who “is one of the most passionate, inspiring, and caring filmmakers today,” according to Gabriel). Within the span of weeks, students wrote, directed, and produced their own short films. “I was the youngest student in the class,” he said. “Working alongside adults on film projects was nerve-wracking and was a huge confidence booster for whatever I worked on after.” The program culminated in a film festival, which required Gabriel to speak from a stage, present his work to the public, and answer questions in a Q&A format—an experience that would prove invaluable.

“Had I not taken that class when I was 15, I would most definitely not be the same person that I am today,” Gabriel said. “It was a life-changing experience for me.”

In 2020, during his senior year of high school, Gabriel made two short films: a drama called “Dissimulate” and a horror named “Ersatz.” Both pieces premiered at the AMC theatre in Times Square as part of the All-American High School Film Festival in October 2021. “Dissimulate” won the award for Best Art Direction/Set Design at the Student Television Network Nationals; this is “one of the biggest awards for student filmmakers today and was a

During December 2020, Gabriel directed the protagonist (Sandler Moore) and crew about a dialogue scene for his short film, “Ersatz,” which was filmed in the basement of a church that one of the crew members (Kristine Artymowski) lived in. The film was made in partnership with Low Key Arts as a part of the Inception to Projection filmmaking program.

While at the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival Premiere held at the Arlington Hotel last October, Gabriel visited with two of his greatest inspirations, Stanley Ray Stevenson (middle) and Jennifer Gerber (far right). While at this event, Stanley met Jennifer for the first time and viewed the documentary Gabriel did on him titled “Big Mama’s Antiques & Restorations.”

personal goal of mine to achieve,” Gabriel explained. Additionally, “Ersatz” was nominated for Best Horror Short at the 2021 Teen Indie Awards.

In the summer of 2021, another Low Key Arts course—this one focused on documentaries—changed Gabriel’s life and career. The 11-minute documentary he made—“Big Mama’s Antiques & Restorations”—premiered at the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival, where it won the Audience Choice Award for Best Short Documentary. It has also been shown at the Arkansas Short Films Fest, the Berlin International Art Film Festival, and the Tokyo International Monthly Film Festival (where it received honorable mention for Best Documentary). “And I’m hoping to share it with many other festivals coming up,” Gabriel said, “so only time will tell where else it’ll go!”

“Big Mama’s Antiques & Restorations” is a straightforward, heartwarming look at a complex topic: the history of the postbellum American South. Set in Hosston, Louisiana, the film introduces the audience to antique-store owner Stanley Ray Stevenson, who “has a collection that would rival many museums,” Gabriel explained. “[The film] explores the aspects of running an antique shop which showcases various pieces of Afro-American history— [some which reflect] bright progress in Black history and others that are hard to stomach as they are derogatory or tragic. I strongly believe Ray is one of the best people you could ever meet. His passion is unrivaled, and I can’t wait for more people to learn about him and plan a visit to see his shop.”

The documentary clearly conveys Stevenson’s intentionality with regards to the sourcing, displaying, and selling (or not selling) of the sensitive artefacts he carries. Stevenson knows as well as anyone that history lives in the hereand-now, and the ways we contextualize, engage with, and move forward with it are of the utmost importance. In other words, while the foundation is significant, so too is what and how we build upon it.

Gabriel Henk benefits from an exceptional foundation. The grandchild and child of two of Texarkana’s most iconic visual artists, he grew up in a world of possibility, encouragement, and exposure. Through TISD, Low Key Arts, his parents, his own self-study, and now the University of North Texas’ Department of Media Arts, he has experienced and continues to experience excellent film education. Upon this foundation, Gabriel has only just begun to develop his craft and build a career; he’s sure of it.

“I know for a fact that I’ll continue filmmaking after graduation, I know I’m going to make it in the industry, and I know I’m going to make the films that I dream of making,” he said. “I want to make a film in every genre at least once, but I have a sweet spot for horror. My goal is to make feature films that I can say are 100% my vision and show them to audiences in theaters around the world.”

During the 2021 Teen Indie Awards at the Kings Theater in Brooklyn, New York, last October, a photographer took Gabriel’s official red carpet photo.

Gabriel served as the Director of Photography for four short films shot within two days, made in collaboration with the Inception to Projection Filmmaking Program.

EVENTS | CALENDAR

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 warm-up and walk for all ages, live music, carnival style games for kids, food, and refreshments. Call 903-8389517 for more 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.

APRIL 5 AND 7

Texarkana ISD will host PreK and Kindergarten Registration from 4:306:30 p.m. For a list of schools, visit: www. enrollTISD@txkisd.net or call 903-7943651, ext. 1030.

APRIL 7

The Farmers Bank Foundation will bring retired U.S. Navy Captain Scott Kelly to Texarkana as part of its Distinguished Speaker Series. The dinner and lecture portion of the event will be held at 7 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn Texarkana Convention Center. Tickets are $100

and will raise funds for scholarships for Texarkana College and University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana students who earn their associate degrees and transition to Texas A&M UniversityTexarkana to complete their bachelor’s degree. Tickets for the event can be purchased online at www.TAMUT. edu/Farmers or by mail. Make checks payable to Texas A&M-Texarkana, 7101 University Drive, Texarkana, Texas, 75503.

APRIL 21

2 Pianos Downtown will be held at 7 p.m. at Crossties Event Venue. The event will features heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and entertainment by 2 Pianos, Josh Lawrence and Dr. Paul Whitt. The event will benefit the Randy Sams’ Outreach Shelter. Call 903-280-7549 or 903-216-0650 for additional information.

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 23

CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) will host its Colorful 5K & Family Fun Run at Trinity Baptist Church. Register at www.runsignup.com/ casacolorful5k.

APRIL 23

The Texarkana Symphony Orchestra will present “Dreaming Together” during a 7:30 p.m. performance in the Historic Perot Theatre. The event will feature Venezuelan pianist Gabriela Martinez. For tickets, call 903-792-4992 or visit: www.perottheatre.org.

APRIL 25

Williams School will host Walking for Williams from 3-5 p.m. on the church grounds at Williams Memorial, located at 4000 Moores Lane. Activities will include a family warm-up and walk, live music, carnival style games for kids, food, and refreshments. To sign up, call 903-838-9517.

APRIL 26

East Texas Giving Day will take place from 6 a.m. to midnight. This online event, powered by East Texas

Communities Foundation, provides critical funding and celebrates the work of area nonprofits. Go to www. easttexasgivingday.org to choose a cause and donate.

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.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

TEXARKANA CHAPTER DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION AWARDS CEREMONY

On March 3, the Texarkana Chapter of the American Revolution held an Awards Ceremony at the First United Methodist Church in Texarkana, Arkansas. The DAR Good Citizen Certificates were presented to Rashad Thrower, a student at Arkansas High School, and Jalynn Allen, a student at Genoa Central High School. Takye Foots, also a student at Arkansas High, received the DAR National Defense ROTC Bronze Medal.

Rashad Thrower, Takye Foots and Jalynn Allen

THE ROAD Tra veled less

BY NICHOLE HOLZE

Just south and slightly west of Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a wonder of geology. Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument is a well worth it side trip between Albuquerque and Santa Fe, with a surprise slot canyon and unique rock formations. The park lies within sacred indigenous lands, so please be mindful of tribal closures and regulations.

The trail we chose to explore began as a paved path, which gave way to crushed gravel, and eventually began to wind into the slot canyon. Just before the trail entered the canyon, we met a massive pine tree in the path. The gnarled roots were exposed, and it was quite a wonder how the tree remained alive. It stood tall, strong even, and the roots held tightly despite the years of erosion. It was quite beautiful, and I paused to take some photos. Immediately after that, the trail disappeared, and we followed the canyon floor. We walked along, our hands gently trailing the sandstone walls. At times the walls were smooth and wavelike and at others it seemed like concrete had been poured over a rock pile. My children had so much fun observing all of the different types of rocks embedded in the canyon walls. The hike itself was not difficult – at least to the point that we made it to before becoming too cold. It was also breathtaking just for the immense beauty of the sandstone structures, seeming to rise like tents in places.

The views heading back into the slot canyon were just as amazing when we turned around. Back in the canyon we stopped for a moment, and I asked my children to just be still and silent. They had never experienced the sound of silence in the immensity that we did in that moment. Deafening. Intense. And unsettling. We all closed our eyes briefly, and when I opened mine, both kids were staring back at me wide-eyed and eager to talk. Soon we were back to laughing and climbing our way back out; they were eager to get on the road to Nana and Papa’s house. That moment still hangs with me, and I hope one day we can return and pause a bit longer.

If you’re curious to learn more about the area, spend a little time reading the Bureau of Land Management website. I would also recommend reading it before you make a visit to the area. The entrance fee is $5 per carload, or free with an annual Parks Pass. As you explore this beautiful piece of geologic wonder, please be respectful of the land and practice Leave No Trace principles.

For a great place to stay, check out either the El Rey Motor Lodge in Santa Fe, or the El Vado Motel in Albuquerque. Both are renovated “Route 66” type hotels that now boast luxurious accommodations with unique surroundings. Pro tip: leave yourself some time to enjoy the beer garden and multiple restaurants on-site at the El Vado Motel in Albuquerque.

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.

Exquisite INTERIORS

CHARMING. EARTHY. COZY.

by SUZY TURNER photos by KATELYN PEEK

Suzy and Kyle Osburn’s vision for their beautiful 4 bedroom, 3 bath modern cottage-inspired home was to create a space for their family that was functional, yet extremely livable and comfortable. Their love of modern design paired harmoniously with the quaint cottage architecture and spatial geography of their home, which is located on the outskirts of Texarkana.

When guests enter the home through the sturdy arched wooden doorway, earthy accents immediately entice their senses. An upright piano serves a dual purpose of displaying family photographs while providing practice time for Suzy and Kyle’s three kids, River, Zimri and Zailee. Hidden storage spaces on both sides of the entryway serve as the perfect locale to house a coat closet and store seasonal décor.

Wooden accents, exposed beams, and versatile shiplap add to the timeless appeal of this home. A tall vaulted ceiling draws the eye upward while enhancing the size of the open living area. A large plush sectional from Ashley Furniture provides comfortable seating for family and guests. A plaster fireplace catches the eye while an inset TV is situated above the mantle and hidden from view by a piece of artwork by Ali Deal which quotes Psalms 61:2 and reads, “When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” The inner hearth houses a herringbone pattern, a trendy approach that adds texture and style. Cabinets located on each side

of the fireplace feature black steel doors and display house plants, photographs, and family knickknacks. Hardy and versatile, the light oak flooring from The Lighthouse features a hybrid finish with wood on top and vinyl underneath. A geometric patterned rug anchors the furnishings while also adding dimension and depth.

Exposed raw white oak beams in the kitchen enhance the organic feel of the room while quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and streamlined cabinets add to the modern feel. An undermount sink is situated beneath three large windows so Suzy can watch her kids playing in the backyard. Innovative pull-out cabinets with brushed bronze hardware are located on each side of the chef-inspired gas range holding spices and cutting boards, easily accessible for the cook. The large open island provides both workability and playability and serves many purposes whether preparing food or just having fun conversations with friends. Adjacent to the kitchen, a concealed walkthrough pantry houses the refrigerator and provides ample storage space for food and appliances.

Zimri and Zailee’s room oozes femininity, youthfulness ... and fun. Taupe polka dot bedding on a solid white background brings in a neutral vibe to their twin beds, while subdued pink blankets are layered over the bedding to add a splash of color. Floral wallpaper from Designs on the Boulevard lends playful patterns to the room. A hidden clubhouse gives the girls a place to store their toys and also

provides a secret hideaway while playing in their room.

A stylish Jack and Jill bathroom is situated between the kids’ rooms. Wood cabinets are used throughout the bath, offering durability and a natural feel. Wall-mounted faucets from Morrison Supply create more space on the countertops, keeping them neat and tidy.

Rivers’ room resembles a typical boy’s room and features a wooden sleigh bed with bedding in shades of black and gray. A sign above his bed exudes masculinity and states, “Long Live Boyhood.” His digital piano is situated on one side of the bed and offers a secluded space to practice his musical skills.

Peace and tranquility are apparent in the master suite, located on the west end of the home. Soft textures and neutral tones create a peaceful vibe as one enters the space. Comfortable seating allows the Osburns to sit, unwind, and talk about their day. Floorto-ceiling curtains cover the tall windows allowing Suzy and Kyle to regulate the amount of sunlight they want to invade their private space. A shiplap accent wall adds visual interest to the room while the wooden bed serves as the focal point. The luxurious master bath resembles a relaxing spa retreat. The latest bath amenities are included here with a walk-in tile shower, soaking tub, quartz countertops, and twin vanities. Candelabra wall sconces from Logan Electric flank the dual mirrors, adding just enough soft lighting to enhance the bath’s cozy ambiance.

Organized and orderly, the massive walk-in closet has plenty of built-in shelves, cabinets, and drawers. Personally designed by Kyle, he created a unique space for everything imaginable: shoes, hanging garments, luggage, and folded clothing, as well as a vanity for Suzy and storage for her cosmetics.

The Osburns have also transformed one bedroom into a homeschool room for the kids. Since the color green often emits a calm and soothing effect, and is said to connect one with nature, the walls of this room are painted a deep olive. An antique grandfather clock sits in one corner of the room, once belonging to Suzy’s grandmother who was born in Austria. A wooden table and comfortable padded chairs are situated in the center of the room and allow all three children to work on their assignments or discuss projects with their mom.

Because their entire family loves to spend time outdoors, Suzy and Kyle extended their living space onto their back patio and yard. An outdoor fireplace takes center stage with a TV situated above the mantle, and comfortable seating areas are strategically placed around the patio. Perfect for cooking and entertaining, the outdoor kitchen features a stainless grill, ample storage space, an outdoor sink, and prep area. Since she is always looking for unique and specialty design ideas, Suzy even added a brick ledge on one outside wall of the home so she can easily take care of her favorite plants. (Suzy and her friend, Brittany Brooks, recently started a company, Seventh Day Design, to share their passions for design with homeowners who are looking for creative concepts.)

Perfect for making s’mores, a fire pit area is conveniently placed next to the pool. Wicker chairs are placed around the pit while a curved outer wall doubles as additional seating. An outdoor shower allows the kids to rinse off after playing outdoors or cool down in the heat of the summer.

Since the Osburns have built several homes, they have learned valuable lessons with each one and have been able to make small adjustments and perfect details with each new build. Kyle’s construction experience and Suzy’s knack for decorating have combined seamlessly to create this ultimate dream home for their family. Built upon a solid foundation of faith and love, this home will serve this wonderful family for many years to come.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

TOUGH KOOKIE FOUNDATION MARDI GRAS MASQUERADE BALL

The Tough Kookie Foundation and Katina R. Levingston presented a Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball on February 19 at Crossties. The event raised funds for breast cancer and childhood cancer survivors.

Wakina Levingston and Ashanti Levingston Roxann Collins, Tracy Williams and Lizzie Williams

Katina R. and Joe Levingston Jr.

Erik and Elizabeth Jacobsen with Emily Hudspeth and Marshall Hackworth

Cynthia Henderson, Roxann Collins and Joyce Prejza

Mark and Melodie White

Ken and Sonya Hawkins

Janet and John Lyons

Richard and Stella Sharp

HISTORY HAPPENS...

BY VELVET HALL COOL Board President of the Texarkana Museums System

History happens in measurements of time. Some measurements are as brief as an instant while others may span centuries.

A bullet careening into a president as he waves to a crowd in Texas takes but seconds to make an indelible mark on an entire world.

The signature of another president on an emancipation proclamation establishing racial equality takes but a few minutes to be inked and dried, takes years to be disseminated to those it impacts the most, and takes yet an unknown amount of time to become a practical reality.

However, history doesn’t just happen in other regions, in places with names that are shown in big fonts on world maps. History is certainly not relegated to just those who have important positions, fancy initials after their names, or lineages that trace back generations. It is crafted quite often by ordinary lives, by those who often recede into the background.

The history of our town is filled with stories, events, and monumental occasions that are ticked off by the pendulum of time being set in motion by those from all walks of life.

Where do we begin to embrace our history? How do we begin to celebrate the fascinating stories that have shaped our unique bistate culture?

We begin by sharing. By sharing our stories and our history, we can impart upon others tidbits they may not have gleaned from history books. Adding a personal touch to a story is like great-grandmother’s quilted blanket on a comfy bed we nestle ourselves into at night.

We begin by listening. By turning our full attention to the “storytellers” in our lives, we can make our history a part of the present and carry it into the future. In my life, I have been blessed with the stories and knowledge from my grandfather, Dick Hall, who surveyed so much of our region and whose last words were literally about someone’s property corners. He could rarely survey a piece of land

without telling me a little nugget about who had lived there, when it had been built, some odd fact that was cordoned off in his impressive memory.

I didn’t always listen, and there are days that I wish I had slowed down and listened to more of his tales. Moments I wish his words had impacted me more. Time, history, sharing, and listening will all come to a monumental crescendo in Texarkana in 2023 as we celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the sale of the first city lots in Texarkana. While a community had existed prior to 1873, the sale of these lots helped to solidify our community and its commitment to prosperity and growth. This was a date that helped establish family names that we have all come to recognize as they arrived to buy up lots. This was a date that initiated the commerce of our town as lots developed into banks, stores, and hotels. This was a date that fueled our desire to embrace the arts as lots were envisioned as future theaters and opera houses. This was a date that nurtured a place many simply call “home” as lots were set aside for the residences that grow and comfort the most valuable commodity of any place … its people.

Celebrating our Sesquicentennial all of next year will be a way to honor and take pride in all of the accomplishments our town has achieved! We will always have many more goals to check off our list, but 150 is definitely worth a nod and tip of the hat!

Note: If your business or organization would like to participate in Texarkana’s 150th Celebration in 2023, please submit your event at https://forms.gle/ cDAdTB79dJi7Wjye6 or email the txk150 Planning Committee at txkusa150@ gmail.com.

Born and raised in Texarkana, Velvet Hall Cool has strong ties to both Texas and Arkansas but will always consider herself a Class of ‘87 Razorback. She loves to share stories of her nine wonderful grandchildren. When it comes to listening, you can always perk up her ears with stories that speak to personal history and the lessons we learn during our lifelong journey.

A portion of the 1838 Patent for the Collin Akin Headright Survey, A-1. First Abstract of land in Bowie County. Measurements are in varas. (Document from Texas GLO Office.)

Texarkana celebrated its Golden Anniversary (50 years) in 1923.

The earliest known photograph of Texarkana known as the “Town Well Photo” from 1874. Members of the Ghio family can be seen around the town well.

Texarkana celebrated further growth during its Centennial Celebration (100 years) in 1973.

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.

BLESSING ALLISON

age: 38

Occupation: Photographer & Director of Learning & Development at Red River Credit Union

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

Build my dream studio!

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

Life is so busy balancing job, business, and a big family so when I have a few minutes, I love to go outside with either my wine or coffee and just sit in the sun listening to nature with no distractions.

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

I would wish for time ... more time with people I love, more time to learn new things, more time to enjoy the moments life gives us.

At what business could you max out a credit card? Most definitely TJ Maxx.

Choose a movie title for the story of your life. “She Never Stops.”

What are you currently watching on Netflix?

“Love is Blind.” My guilty pleasure is that I am a true reality junkie.

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go? Italy! In a heartbeat!

If you could only have three apps on your smartphone, which would you pick?

If I didn’t run a business, I would absolutely pick other apps but the ones I most use are Facebook, Honeybooks and my RRCU app. I could not operate without those.

What’s your favorite sport to watch, and which team do you root for? Currently, I love watching my son play soccer for THS but I am a huge baseball fan. GO, RANGERS!

CHRIS BACHERS

age: 48

Occupation: Visual Artist and English Faculty at University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana

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

I would invest in real estate. I’d love to buy a building in downtown Texarkana and make it an amazing art studio-gallery-coffeehouse.

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

I read something that inspires me or work on a visual artwork. I also love cooking while watching “The Criterion Channel.”

If you were allowed to have one wish granted, what would it be? I would wish that I could have a wish granted at least once a week, of course.

At what business could you max out a credit card? Texas Art Supply in Houston.

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

What are you currently watching on Netflix?

“Inventing Anna.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I’d love exploring London and Paris — both for the visual art and for the cultural research. (I teach World Literature at U of A Texarkana.)

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

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

I like to watch a good basketball game. If I have to choose one team to root for, it would be the Houston Rockets.

“ EXPRESS YOURSELF ”

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEANS OF EXPRESSING YOURSELF AND YOUR FEELINGS?

I absolutely love to express myself through my photography. From the time I start the session, I love the connection with my clients and helping them open up to returning their memories to them in an artistic, emotional portrait. I love capturing their emotions and love of that moment in a shot and showing them how important that moment was and helping them relieve that moment time and time again.

I’m a divided house on that one. I love words, and I love visual art. Putting the right words together is like coming up with a successful idea for a visual artwork.