Four States Living Magazine June 2022

ON THE COVER - JUNE 2022

Although he says he was considered a “nerd” in school, personal injury trial lawyer Monty Murry is the very definition of an athlete now (at 60 years young). After training and qualifying for the Boston Marathon, Monty had the time of his life on April 18, 2022, when he took off on the small county roads lined with screaming fans. He admits that he was just glad he finished the race and looks back on this experience of a lifetime with fond memories.

See “The Very Definition of an Athlete” on page 8.

WHO LEAD BY EXAMPLE

Every man in business has his own story, and we present a few of them in this special advertising section with profiles specifically designed to show the person - the face behind the business or organization that he has helped build, starting on page 20.

About Town

18, 22, 25-26, 30, 3334, 45-46, 58, 63, 70, 72

“Oh the places you’ll go!” – Dr. Seuss

The Way I See It...

PUBLISHER’S

Robin Rogers, Ed.D.

I have given Dr. Seuss’ last published book to lots of graduates in the last 30 years, usually with an inscription about the importance of the journey. So often, we get so caught up planning the day, the week, or the year, that when it’s all passed, we just crash, not realizing we missed the special moments. If we have learned anything from the last few years, surely it is to seize the day, take the vacation, kiss your people, TRY. The biggest obstacle in living a life full of fun, excitement, and experiences is self. How many times have I said, “I’d love to do _____?” You can fill in that blank with scuba dive, take a pottery class, learn to fly, play piano, drive across America, etc., etc., etc. In truth, nobody has ever stopped me from doing anything. My bank account has given me pause at times, but the only person who stands in my way is me, a little voice in my head telling me that I won’t be good at something, or worse—that I will make a mess of things completely.

Since COVID, we have been as still as ever before. No trips. No fun experiences. No classes. I have held my breath and prayed away a virus, desperately aware of the damage it could do to my immunocompromised daughter. While Emily and I were binge-watching awful reality television, I found some shows about van life and people who build out vans to live in them and travel the country. That began my current obsession with Skoolies.

Wait. What’s a Skoolie, you ask?

A Skoolie is a converted RV that began as a school

Four St ates Living

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bus. Once a school district retires a bus, that bus is sold, usually at auction. Most retired buses are diesel engines that have many more miles on them. Sometimes, churches or day care facilities buy old school buses and continue to use them to transport. Years ago, I remember we had a Gym on Wheels in Texarkana that was in a school bus.

Once a person like me buys a bus, the hard work begins. Skoolie owners remove the seats, add insulation, remove rust, paint the exterior, and add water tanks, air conditioners, solar panels, kitchens, beds, and full bathrooms in their builds. There are incredible bus builds all over the country; some people spend years as weekend builders trying to get it right. And while I can’t begin to do justice explaining what I envision, you should at least look them up on YouTube. If you enjoy watching Joanna Gaines do her magic in a house, you will find school bus conversion equally as interesting.

When I tell people about my Skoolie dreams, their first question is usually, “Why don’t you just buy an RV?” Well, to start, it’s a budgetary factor. While there are RVs that have wheelchair lifts, they are super expensive. If you don’t use a wheelchair, or if nobody in your inner circle does, it’s impossible to understand that everything we do with Emily and her wheelchair costs more in time, energy, and cash. But, in the Skoolie world, I can find a retired bus with a sturdy wheelchair lift already installed at the same price as a bus without a lift.

Plus, school buses are like the safest rigs on the road. We trust our kids in them without seat belts.

PUBLISHER

Dr. Robin Rogers

EDITOR

Suzy Turner

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Kimberly Stone

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Victoria Herman

FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHER

Peyton Sims

EVENT PHOTOGRAPHERS

Abby Elliott

Kierstyn Harris

FEATURED COLUMNISTS

Velvet Hall Cool

Nichole Holze

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jennifer Jordan

Lindsey McMillan

Vicki Melde

Peyton Sims

Lisa Porterfield Thompson

Amber E. Willman

I’m in.

So, for the last year or so, I have followed every social media group, watched every YouTube build project (and there are thousands), followed public auctions of buses, studied engines, and read travel blogs. I am truly obsessed with all things Skoolie. My oldest daughter has been in town for a few weeks, and she has asked me not to say the word “Skoolie” anymore because she is sick of hearing about them. I just need to take her to Skooliepalooza (the annual Skoolie convention), and then maybe she will change her mind! My ex-husband Chris, who works in the big-truck industry, thinks I am nuts. My son shakes his head. But guess what? The one person who will be riding shotgun in our future Skoolie says she’s up for the adventure, as long as her dog can tag along, too. So, we are in the market for a rear-engine, flatnose Bluebird with a wheelchair lift, preferably under 150,000 miles. And, if you know a good school bus mechanic, hook me up with an introduction. Our journey is just beginning. COVID has taught me, like many others, to get busy living. When I die, I want people to say, “She lived a big, full life.” In order to do that, I have to hush the voice in my head and go for it. Not everything will go as planned or be easy, but if I don’t try? Think of the laughs, experiences, and stories we will miss!

The people we feature this month are living big lives, doing extraordinary things. I hope you are as inspired by them as I am. As always, thanks for reading FSLM. And congratulations to the graduates of 2022!

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

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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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ATTORNEY MONTY MURRY SHARES ALL ABOUT HIS TRAINING, QUALIFYING, AND PARTICIPATING IN THE BOSTON MARATHON

by

photo

PEYTON SIMS

The Very Definition of an ATHLETE

by LISA PORTERFIELD THOMPSON

Dallas, Galveston, Chicago, New York, and Boston. These aren’t the stops on a busy flight schedule, rather triathlon/marathon destinations checked off by our friend, Monty Murry, astute lawyer, dedicated runner, fly fisherman turned ballroom dancer.

“In 2011, I told my wife that I wanted to start running,” Monty said. “I had never been a runner in my life, but I wanted to give it a shot. I immediately joined the gym – CHRISTUS St. Michael Health Center – and started out by running a mile or two each day on the treadmill. That same week, I got online and signed up to run the Dallas Marathon in December of that year, just 10 months away.”

To most people, this sounds crazy. To Monty, it was a way to motivate himself. “I figured that signing up would give me the motivation I needed to run. I’m a very goal-oriented person,” Monty said. “I finished the Dallas Marathon that year, which was the first race I had ever run. I can still remember Ryan saying, ‘Can’t you just run a 5K, or a 10K, or a half marathon first?’ A month after that, I started running with a group of triathletes – Team Texarkana (AKA Team Jackass) – who competed in Ironman triathlons.”

Ryan is Monty’s wife of 20 years. She keeps him balanced, or so he says. “I had not been a swimmer or a cyclist before [training with Team Texarkana], but I signed up for Ironman Galveston – a half Ironman (swim 1.2 miles, bike 56, and run 13.1) which was held in April of 2012,” he said. “As I recall, I didn’t even have a bike at the time, and the race was just four months away. Even though I came close to drowning on the swim, I finished that race, then went on to finish two full Ironmans – Arizona and Chattanooga – before deciding to retire my bike.”

Even though crossing the finish line at the Boston Marathon wasn’t any more glamorous than any other marathon, Monty admits he was “just glad it was finished.”

In 2013, Monty participated in Ironman Arizona which consisted of a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, and 26.2 mile run.

In 2015, Monty ran the Chicago Marathon, and in 2019, he ran the New York Marathon. Both races are “lottery races,” which means it is luck of the draw to be granted the chance to register. “I was lucky enough to get into both on the first try,” Monty said. “However, the goal of every runner is to someday run in the most coveted race of all, the Boston Marathon.”

The Boston Marathon is not a lottery race. Rather, runners must meet the qualification times, which Monty describes as “challenging to say the least.” “I never thought I would actually get a chance to run Boston until Friday, March 13, 2020, the day everything closed,” Monty said. “Ryan and I were in the habit of going to the St. Michaels’ fitness center every morning at 5:30 a.m. I would either do weights or run from the fitness center with friends, then go up to my office, where I would shower and get dressed for the day. The week after it shut down, I decided to dedicate the next 12 months qualifying for Boston. It helped that I would be turning 60 the next year, and my qualifying time would jump from 3:35 to 3:50.”

Monty planned for his qualifying race to be The Woodlands Marathon in March of 2021, which would give him 12 months to train. For the next year, he woke up at 3:45 a.m. every morning. During the week, he ran six miles or so daily from his house, then walk four additional miles after that with Ryan. On Sundays, he ran long distances, starting out with 13 miles, eventually working his way up to 18-22 miles, still walking with Ryan afterwards. “I feel as though I need to apologize to those living in Wake Village, my usual route, for waking up all of the dogs in their neighborhood at 4:30 each morning,” Monty said. “The dogs and I eventually became friends, although I always carried pepper spray for the occasional stray that felt the need to come after me. Thankfully, I never had to use it.”

When asked about techniques, Monty only pointed to one oddity that he thinks might be different than most. “A lot of runners listen to music while they run,” Monty said, “but I have always preferred to do so in silence, with only my thoughts for company.”

After all, Monty is a thinker. By day, he’s a well-known personal injury trial lawyer. He’s been practicing law in the Texarkana area for the last 34 years. “I was never particularly interested in playing sports while in middle school and high school, although I did grow up playing baseball,” he said. “Instead, I spent my time involved with band and the Math Team, which consisted of Slide Rule and Number Sense. Daingerfield was known for having one of the best Math Teams in the state. I became involved with Slide Rule when I was a sophomore and was UIL Texas State Champion the very next year as a junior. One might say I was the typical ‘nerd,’ and I own that.”

Nerd or not, as an adult, Monty Murry is the very definition of an athlete.

In March of 2021, he ran The Woodlands Marathon in a time of 3:32, 18 minutes under his qualifying time for the Boston Marathon.

“In November 2021, I was accepted to Boston, although I had already booked my travel arrangements months before in anticipation,” Monty says. “I didn’t run nearly as long or hard after The Woodlands, as my goal had shifted from having to run a certain time, to simply enjoying the experience.”

Monty adds, “Running a marathon can never really be enjoyable.”

“None of my previous marathons or triathlons were as exciting or emotional as Boston,” Monty admits. “We arrived in Boston several days early to enjoy the city. I quickly realized that this race was a huge deal for Boston and the entire surrounding area. The finish line was already up, and the local television stations could not talk about anything else. I didn’t see this in Chicago or New York.

“Running 26.2 miles into Boston on a small county road seemed like it would be fairly boring and unexciting,” Monty says, “but I quickly discovered this would not be the case. The road along the way was packed with screaming fans, and it seemed like everyone in the county had shown up. At one point, we ran past an all-women’s college, where all the women were standing on the sides holding up signs that read, ‘Kiss me.’ That was their tradition. I quickly got used to hearing people shout, ‘Go Ponytail Man,’ which I preferred over ‘Run Santa!’ from the boys at Boston College.”

Monty participated in the Boston Marathon on April 18, 2022.

One of Ryan and Monty’s favorite pastimes is to cruise on the Queen Mary 2, with ballroom dancing a close second.

Monty said the finish wasn’t any more glamorous or exciting than any other marathon finish line, but that he was just glad it was finished. That’s a sentiment that we can all understand.

When he’s not running, and planning trips across the country to run, Monty and his wife, Ryan, enjoy ballroom dancing. The two have four children and six grandchildren. “One of our favorite things to do now is to cruise on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, for their formal balls and nightly dancing,” Monty said. “We are currently scheduled to take a ‘crossing’ – across the Atlantic from New York to Southampton, UK, and back – a cruise which has been rescheduled four times now due to COVID. We are keeping our fingers crossed.

“Since there are not many places to ballroom dance in our area, except perhaps the Arlington Hotel in Hot Springs on occasion, we have taken up country dancing, which is basically the same thing, we’ve discovered, except in boots and jeans instead of gowns and tuxedos,” Monty acknowledges. “We can now be found most Friday nights at the VFW, which has a live band and the friendliest group of people you will ever find.”

Aside from running and dancing, Monty is the president of the Kiwanis Club of Texarkana, a job that keeps him busier than he ever imagined. He’s also making plans for more fun. “My next daring adventure on the bucket list,” he concludes, “is Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain. I can’t say that Ryan is all that excited about this one.”

Monty enjoys taking some time to do some fly fishing on the Roaring River in Missouri.

Monty ran the New York City Marathon in November 2019. Prior to running the Boston Marathon, Monty and his wife, Ryan, visited a pub and enjoyed the city.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

TWICE AS FINE TEXARKANA WINE FESTIVAL

On May 7, the Alzheimer’s Alliance Tri-State Area held its seventh annual Twice as Fine Texarkana Wine Festival at Spring Lake Park. A celebration of art, food, music and wine, the event featured musical entertainment, wine tastings, vendors, and food trucks, throughout the day.

A Twisted & Uncorked VIP Dinner Buffet and Live Auction was also held on May 6 at the home of Cathy and Mark Van Herpen and featured a dinner buffet by Executive Chef Staley James and Pastry Chef Bri Flanagan. An art auction featured authentic custom wine barrels painted by Jerome LeGrand, Lawson Lawrence, Melissa Mitchell, Phillip Anderson, David Peavy and Christopher Bachers. Terri deNatale served as the signature artist for the event.

Lakyn Austin and Cassidy Lavender

Andrea Corbell and Jessica McDonald

Paul and Sandy Rothwell

Tefany Boyer and George Dodson

Heather Thompson and Amanda Yowell

Lynn Ciebel, Mary Washington and Nancy Barlow

Corie Woodman

Amy Thomas and Cam Murray

Greg Cook and Jessica Plant

Fallon Turner with Wyatt and LeeAnn Molloy

Wyatt Ashley, Taryn Ashley, Lauree Romero and Dodson Ashley

Brooke Stone and Rhonda Stone

Rylie Griggs, Paiten Hatfield, Victoria Herman and Kendal Griggs

Jill and Mark Launius

Stephen and Madeline Robbins

Sara Carper and Katie Beckham

Tyler Ashley, Sydnie Miller, Colton Brown and Mark James

Keith and Brittany Tubbs

Mike and Jeanna Rogers

Sharisse DePoi and Vernita Williams

Janie, Abby and Rick Bishop

Haleigh Alexander and Jackie Arellano

Juliana Register and Bailey Gravitt

photo by PEYTON

by VICKI MELDE

A Strong PASSION For Music

by JENNIFER JORDAN

When ranking childhood dream jobs, a musician or rock star often makes the top 10. How much fun would it be to sing and play an instrument, and get paid for it? How incredible would it be to audition for “American Idol?” For many, it’s only a dream. But, for some, like Hailey Wright, that dream can become a reality, even at age 17.

Hailey has always had a strong passion for music. Growing up in Redwater, Hailey says that, according to her mother, “as a baby I wouldn’t even sleep at night without music playing. I grew up singing karaoke with my sisters.” Hailey’s main childhood activity was softball, playing in a competitive travel league, but “when I broke my leg sliding into second base playing softball is when I started taking music more seriously.”

Hailey had received an old pawn shop guitar one Christmas, so after her leg injury, she picked up that guitar. “Things took off from there!” she comments. “My mom encouraged me to go to an open mic night, and several people went live on Facebook while I played. My music career took off after that, and I had two business owners book me for their venues.”

Just listening to Hailey belt out a country standard in a rich, throaty voice, one would imagine that she is at least 25, not a 17-year-old high school student. Yet, the gift of this voice and her guitar playing has catapulted Hailey to local fame. “I play mostly in the Texarkana area, but I have also played at The Backyard Social Club in Foreman, Arkansas, as well as in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, at the Hochatown Saloon. I have been very fortunate to open for artists including Kody West and Ricochet!” Hailey also developed her own Facebook page, Hailey Wright Music, where she posts videos of some of her performances and keeps her fans upto-date.

As Hailey developed a name for herself locally, several people asked whether she had considered auditioning for “American Idol.” Having watched the popular singing competition throughout its years on television, Hailey thought, “Why not?” As she comments, “I never would have imagined it would land me standing face-to-face with Lionel, Luke, and Katy.”

The first “American Idol” audition involved speaking to producers and singing on Zoom calls, due to COVID-19 protocols. “After the initial audition,” Hailey explains, “it was a few weeks before I heard back from ‘American Idol.’ When

HAILEY WRIGHT’S AMAZING VOICE AND GUITAR PLAYING HAS CATAPULTED HER TO LOCAL FAME AND TO THE “AMERICAN IDOL” STAGE

I discovered I had made it and would be moving forward to filming and auditioning in front of the celebrity judges, I was ecstatic! Out of thousands of auditions, getting the honor to be one out of the few hundred artists who auditioned was amazing!”

The next step was to audition in Austin. Hailey describes the process: “When I got there it was exhilarating being around so much talent! Some of the best of the best, undiscovered talents. I can’t even begin to explain what I felt like being in a room with Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan. Lionel Richie was my favorite by far! He just radiated beauty and had a kind and beautiful soul, inside and out!”

Although Hailey did not move forward after the judges’ audition, she has future plans for her music career. She has written some original songs and hopes to release them soon. “I plan to get in the studio soon to see what I can get done, and who knows, maybe I will audition for ‘American Idol’ again or even ‘The Voice!’”

Hailey’s encouraging outlook is no doubt due to the unwavering support from her family. She and her older sisters, Amber and Krista, maintain a strong bond, and Hailey’s love for them shines as she discusses their work. Amber, age 27, serves as a Rapid Response nurse in the Cardiovascular ICU at CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System, while attending college to earn her Nurse Practitioner’s degree. Krista, age 24, works as a part-time dispatcher for 911 at the Bi-State Justice Building and also as a court clerk for Bowie County. “Both of my sisters are superheroes to me, especially being essential workers in our community. I have come to understand the need for medical and legal workers, and what my sisters do is amazing. They have set the bar high for me, being the baby.” The three young women are surrounded with the role model of their mother, Lisa, whom Hailey says, worked tirelessly to raise three “strong, independent women like her. Last year, she had several strokes on the left side of her brain, but she continues to support me and my sisters in every capacity available to her.” Hailey’s maternal grandparents have also been a wonderful source of support for her. “Poppy (Jack) served 22½ years in the Air Force and worked 36 years at Red River Army Depot. Nana (Janet) has been the glue that has held our family together over the years.” Hailey could also not pursue her dreams without the love and guidance of her father, Floyd, who has worked long hours in the logging industry for Eddie Sullivan. “To say I’m a daddy’s girl is an understatement.” As Hailey explains, “My biological father was a musician, but he was absent in my life and didn’t want anything to do with me growing up so my sisters’ dad, Floyd, stepped up from birth and has cared and loved for me just like both my sisters. Most of the time, I don’t even think about him not being my biological father, and nobody else does either. Floyd has never missed a single ball game or music gig. He has ALWAYS been present in my life and is the biggest blessing

Hailey stands in front of Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan in the “American Idol” audition room.

I could have ever been given. He chose to love me as his own and has stood by that 100%. When I was younger if someone was to ask, “Where’s your Daddy?” my response was always “wrapped around my finger!” and that is still true! I love him more than I can express.”

Hailey also loves her high school, Premier High School, a charter school in Texarkana. “It has some of the best teachers and staff,” Hailey exclaims, “especially Mrs. McCartney our Superintendent. She is the absolute best!”

When she is not in school, practicing, or playing a gig, Hailey enjoys researching her ancestry. “In 2020, I learned that my great-grandmother was full blood registered Choctaw Indian. I embrace my roots. Many people often ask about my hair being so long. I continue to grow my hair long for my ancestors and my culture. I’ve also taught myself to speak Choctaw and can even sing in Choctaw.  My passion is to one day be a voice for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women!”

An energetic, giving spirit, combined with sheer musical talent, will pave a bright path for Hailey Wright. Anticipate seeing and hearing this beautiful voice for a long time.

Even as a youngster, Hailey was interested in music. This photo was taken of her during a talent show.

Singing for the “American Idol” judges was a dream come true for Hailey, and she just might do it again one day.

Sisters Amber, Krista, and Hailey have a very strong bond. Since Amber and Krista are essential workers, Hailey calls them “superheroes.”

Hailey and her dad, Floyd, at a softball game when she was about 11 years old.

Hailey sneaks in a little guitar playing on the “American Idol” set right before she auditioned for the judges.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

HARVEST REGIONAL FOOD

BANK’S DRIVE OUT HUNGER GOLF TOURNAMENT

Harvest Regional Food Bank hosted its annual Drive Out Hunger Golf Tournament Fundraiser on May 16 at Northridge Country Club. Participants enjoyed a day of fun on the green to help fight food insecurity in Southwest Arkansas and Northeast Texas. Winners of the tournament were: first place, David Mims, Matt Prieskorn, Faith Delagarza, and Jeff Prieskorn; second place, Chris Baca, Cheney Pruett, Brad Davis, and Greg Flanagan; and third place, Thomas Dickens, Cody White, Lauree Romero, and Sean Romero. All of the proceeds from the event support hunger relief programs at Harvest Regional Food Bank which serves more than 75 agencies in nine counties in southwest Arkansas as well as Bowie County, Texas. In 2020 and 2021, Harvest distributed nearly 10 million pounds of food to neighbors in need. They also provide food through food banking, mobile pantries, senior boxes, and childhood hunger programs to over 45 campuses.

Ty Cobb, Cole Grimes, Zayne Madden and Trey Gentry Wes Grimes, Glenn Grimes, Trey Branch and Jason Horn

Cody Cunningham, Bradley Wright, Jeremy Burkes and Jimbo Cunningham Nick Williams, Malachi Smith, Jason Ross and Jason Williams

Cole Turner, Dalton Robertson, Ryan Romero and Tyler Ashley

Doug Dietz, Erickah Mathis and Callie Buckley

Corey Jerry, Chase Stormes, Benton Cater and Tim Reed

David Mims, Matt Prieskorn, Faith Delagarza and Jeff Prieskorn Alan Clement, Mark Luckett, Bart Vance and Joe Hankins Kelley Frix, Seth Hopkins, Scott Hopkins and Mike Odom

Thomas Dickens, Cody White, Lauree Romero and Sean Romero

Chase Hawkins, Austin Corn, Jared Minter and Kevin Minter

Chris Baca, Cheney Pruett, Brad Davis and Greg Flanagan

Jonathan Hornok, Camille Wrinkle, Melinda Vammen and Andi Darby

RYAN BERRY

TAMUT ALUMNI PRESIDENT AND TSD PRESIDENT AND CEO TSD LOGISTICS, INC.

Ryan Berry is the president and CEO of TSD Logistics, Inc., a highly respected bulk transport provider that was established in Texarkana in 1980. The company provides freight and logistics services throughout North America and has become widely known for its commitment to exceeding customer expectations. In his capacity as President and CEO, Ryan has full operational and financial responsibility of the business. His ability to connect with people through his practice of servant leadership allows him to be an effective leader and to build healthy business relationships based on trust. As a CEO, Ryan places a huge emphasis on corporate culture and creating an environment that feels more like family than just a place to earn a paycheck.

A graduate of Texas A&M University-Texarkana, Ryan is the president of the A&M-Texarkana Alumni Association and takes an active role in promoting his alma mater. “I’ve had many opportunities afforded to me because of the education I received at A&M-Texarkana,” Ryan shares. “It’s important to me to share my time and resources so that other students can have the same experiences that I had.”

www.tsdlogistics.com

L. BUNEL, JR., D.D.S.

After attending Baylor University, the Baylor College of Dentistry, and The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, specializing in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Kirby Bunel owned a solo dental practice for 10 years. However, for the past 19 years, he has served as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and practice administrator for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of Northeast Texas. Over the years, OMS of Northeast Texas has assembled a spectacular group of surgeons in its practice. “Our surgeons are both exceptionally well-trained and skilled clinicians, as well as exceptional individuals,” he asserts. “It is a joy to work alongside them. We also have developed a great staff who is dedicated to patient care and making the day run smoothly. However, my patients are the real stars.”

In 1993, Dr. Bunel completed training in one of the largest and most respected training programs/medical centers in the U.S. where dental providers were starting to place dental implants on a more routine basis. Since the treatment was not offered locally except in limited circumstances, he initiated a continuing education program with local colleagues and an awareness effort to the dental consumer. “Today, dental implant treatment is mainstream treatment, and I am happy to have been instrumental in developing this treatment in our community to the benefit of many patients,” he explains. “I have placed more dental implants than any dentist or surgeon in our service area. It has been exciting to see the wonderful advancements we have enjoyed in this area of treatment.”

For Dr. Bunel, a job well done is very satisfying. A happy and smiling patient and/or family member makes him smile. “Two things are very special to me; the first is earning the trust of a very anxious patient so that I can perform the needed procedure, under anesthesia, and they can go home happy and relieved. And the second thing that makes me happy is having a parent trusting me with the care of their child and then returning at some point later with another child,” he acknowledges.

Dr. Bunel has gained a lot of experience and business acumen over the past 29 years. His future goal is to facilitate the transition of leadership over to his younger partners so that they can continue the legacy of excellence that OMS of Northeast Texas has established over the past 75 years, beginning with Drs. Pierce Noble, Dan Moore, and Joe James.

JACOB DUKE, D.D.S.

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGEON

OMS OF NORTHEAST TEXAS (ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGEONS OF NORTHEAST TEXAS)

Caring and patient, Dr. Jacob Duke attained a Bachelor of Science in General Science from Harding University and attended dental school at the University of Tennessee. His oral/maxillofacial surgery residency took place at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. He has been an equal partner at OMS of Northeast Texas for the past 13 years. Since all of the doctors own this practice, each of them spend a lot of time trying to improve the experience for the patients and staff alike. “We want every experience to be better than the last,” he explains. “We don’t like being herded through a clinic, and realize that nobody does! Because of this, we all try to be more caring and run the business so each patient is treated special. This requires constant attention, but it is worth it. When patients are happy, the staff and doctors are happy and this makes the day fun and work enjoyable.”

Because the doctors perform numerous oral surgeries and provide IV anesthesia in the office, they all have special licensure by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners and require the assistance of additional team members. This extra training is accomplished by 4-6 years in addition to dental school. “Our practice has become the most technologically advanced office for dental implant therapy in Texarkana,” Dr. Duke says. “We now have the ability to replace an entire set of teeth in one day. This is called ‘teeth in a day’ and requires a special prosthetic set of teeth that are supported with dental implants. We also can work with your dentist to place implants and utilize an oral scanning computer/camera which allows a crown (prosthetic tooth) to be made without the use of impression material.”

Working with a wonderful staff and getting to improve the lives of his patients is Dr. Duke’s favorite part of his job. “We have a long-standing staff, and many have been with us 15, 20, 30 and one staff member 40 years! We see that as a testament to our staff and their true care for the patients,” he remarks. “The days can be hard, and if you don’t love this, you don’t last that long.”

In the future, Dr. Duke looks forward to having more laboratory abilities present in the OMS of Northeast Texas office, which will result in restoring missing teeth more quickly. “I would also like to do more corrective jaw surgery, chin implants, and other beneficial face-changing procedures for the community,” he concludes. “All of us are very well-trained in this, but a smaller town has less patients needing this. Many are not aware we do oral AND MAXILLOFACIAL surgery.”

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

FIRST RESPONDER’S DAY 2022

First Responder’s Day 2022 was held May 18 at the Texarkana Arkansas Convention Center and the Texarkana Texas Convention Center. Free boxed lunches from Big Jake’s BBQ were served to all First Responders including EMS, law enforcement and firefighters. The event was sponsored by Eagle Distributing, Farmers Bank & Trust, Texarkana Emergency Center & Hospital, and Texarkana Funeral Homes.

Haley Raney, India Lewis, Mikayla Westbrook, Sarah Hurst and Chelsy Pugh

Dale Young, David Fielding, Tyler Gentry, Ryne Shelton and Jamie Gravier

Lance Steed, Matt Palmer, Kyndal Griffith and Dr. Erik Jacobsen

Jarrod Nall and Darren Higgs

Aaron Graves, Jimmy Bowen and Bobby Jordan

Cory Motley, Cliff Harris and Aaron Wafford

Chris King, Sam McJunkins, Ed Chattawy, Rep. Carol Dalby and James Atchley

Kyndal Griffith, Brooke Marshall, Dr. Bo Kelley, Dr. Matt Young, Dr. Erik Jacobsen, Dr. Dean Bowman and Amy Tankersley

Vickers Fuqua, James Bramlett, Dr Matt Young and Chris Ross

Rachael Potter, Kevin Crow, Jesse Jenkins, Kenzie Teel, James Bramlett, Kaylea Morgan, George Carpenter and Leslie Warner

Mark Burnett and Tony Hemby

Jay Ellington, Mayor Allen Brown and Joe Hankins

Justin Swecker, Kevin Johnson and Cody Eaves

DAVID HICKS

CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP OFFICER, SVP

FARMERS BANK & TRUST

With 25+ years of banking experience, Customer Relationship Officer and Senior Vice President David Hicks oversees all of Farmers Bank & Trust’s retail staff and Call Center. When asked what unique quality he brings to his position, he answers, “I enjoy problem-solving situations and possess the ability to look at any situation, error, or issue from all angles to find a given solution.”

Being part of a team who displays top-notch customer service for the past eight years is David’s favorite part of his job. “Farmers Bank & Trust proudly pours into the communities we serve, which is an important quality to me,” he says. “I love giving back to the community I grew up in.” Although he knows that there is always room for improvement in any profession, David’s personal and professional goals are to continue to strive to be the very best.

Farmers Bank & Trust | 2900 St. Michael Drive | Texarkana, Texas, 75503 | 903-791-0490 | www.myfarmers.bank

For over 3½ years, Rick Huntze has served as the volunteer coordinator and bereavement counselor for Hospice of Texarkana. In this capacity, he oversees 25-30 volunteers and provides individual and group counseling for grief/caregiver stress. “With regard to our volunteers, I think I’m a good ‘boss’ because I let them set their own hours, they never get fired, and I’m always doubling their pay!” he jokes. “With regard to counseling, because I have had to deal with the deaths of my father (from ALS) when I was 14 and my youngest son, Jack, (from DIPG) when he was 11, I feel like I can help others to cope when they too experience loss of loved ones.”

The best part of Rick’s job is definitely the people he works with at Hospice of Texarkana. He admits that the volunteers are incredible people who put in a lot of hours and are always willing to do what is asked of them. And he remarks that the Hospice staff is “very hardworking as well and very compassionate.”

Rick received a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Texas A&M-Texarkana. His work at Hospice of Texarkana is very satisfying to him. He loves the variety his job affords as he serves in many varying roles. “I’m in my office most of the time but also able to be out in the community,” he explains. “Although a lot is asked of us, and excellence is expected, we are very well supported by management.”

When asked what his plans are for the future, he answers, “I’d like to retire in about nine years so that I can spend more time with family and travel. I will definitely become a volunteer after I retire.” Hospice of Texarkana

Serving the population with quality emergency care is the goal of Dr. Erik Jacobsen, emergency room physician and co-owner of Texarkana Emergency Center and Hospital. With over 20 years of experience in the medical field, Dr. Jacobsen provides convenient, high-quality care for his patients. “It is wonderful to be able to see how TEC has improved emergency care for the city of Texarkana. I am thankful to be a part of this team,” he admits.

Texarkana Emergency Center & Hospital was conceived with a simple, yet visionary idea – to bring quick and compassionate, concierge-level emergency care to its community. The team of experts at TEC deliver emergency care that patients deserve with minimal wait times. Proud to serve Texarkana and the surrounding areas, Dr. Jacobsen has worked at TEC for the past six years and admits that the best part of his job is working with children.

TEC’s facility was built upon the idea that complete health, mind and body, begins with a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. Dr. Jacobsen’s goals for the future are to continue to expand high quality emergency hospitals across the country, continually improving access to quality care.

Texarkana Emergency Center Hospital | 4646 Cowhorn Creek Road | Texarkana, Texas 75503 | 903-838-8000

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

FARMERS BANK & TRUST HOSTS OPEN HOUSE

An Open House was held on May 13 for Farmers Bank & Trust’s 1102 Arkansas Boulevard location. Burgers and snow cones were served to attendees.

Tom Wooten, James Bramlett, Joe Hankins and Jack Daugherty

Leslie Warner, Emilee Neal and Dianna Holt

Whitney Boykin and Leigh Cheek

Jennifer Whiteside, Chelsy Pugh, Megan Kumpe, Sarah Hurst, Joe Hankins and Dianna Holt

Lindy Allen, India Lewis and Mikayla Westbrook

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

WILLIAMS SCHOOL HOSTS WALKING FOR WILLIAMS

Williams School held its third annual Walking for Williams on April 24 on the church grounds at Williams Memorial United Methodist Church. The afternoon consisted of a family warm-up and walk for all ages, live music, carnival style games for kids, as well as food and refreshments.

Blanca Diaz and Staci Requarth

Tarabell Chalifoux and Pollyanna Ferguson

Meagan and Beckett Cedillo with Jo Pierce

Ryker and Patty Quinn

Chuck and Brittany Borah

Melissa Grace, Kayla King, Blair Bowden and Sarah Hall

Amanda Huggins, Madison Givens, Cassidy Lavender, Jordan Thornton and Brittin Patton

Lizzie, Reagan and Reese Elliott

Brittany and Cody Elliott Corbin Franklin, Matthew Thomas and Ethan Garfield

Chris Richards, Haley Rountree and Philip Mobley

Sarah Hall and Kara Thompson

Sandy Ford, Jared Witten and Terry Rainey

Meagan Cedillo, Lorie Son and Jessica McDonald

KEVIN JOHNSON

COMMERCIAL LOAN OFFICER, SVP

FARMERS BANK & TRUST

Throughout his career, Kevin Johnson has been blessed to work with many seasoned bankers. “I have tried to learn as much as I could from senior bankers and have tried to incorporate the things I have learned into my own job and career,” he acknowledges.

Kevin received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) in Finance from the University of Arkansas-Monticello. For the past six years, he has worked at Farmers Bank & Trust and has enjoyed working with the Farmers team. “I love how Farmers Bank & Trust supports the Texarkana community – both financially and with volunteer hours,” he says. “The passion this bank has for Texarkana is impressive.”

Since he began working in the banking sector in 1995, Kevin has witnessed many changes to the market and to banking in general. He believes that the one unique quality he brings to his position is knowledge, training, and skill working in the Texarkana market. His goals for the future are to continue to take care of his customers and support them in any way he can.

KEN LAMON

DIRECTOR, BUSINESS ENTERPRISES OPPORTUNITIES, INC.

Ken Lamon establishes and develops business operations to provide Opportunities, Inc.’s adult clients with the opportunities to work and develop job and socialization skills. These operations cover a broad spectrum of business ventures, such as document shredding, working in a print shop and a greenhouse, and cutting and preparing wood stakes for landscapers and construction businesses. Ken looks forward to continuing to expand the business operations of the nonprofit in the future. He says, “We are not stopping with just these operations as we plan to continue to develop business ventures as we grow.”

Not only does Ken serve as the Director of Business Enterprises; he is also the softball coach for Opportunities, Inc.’s Slammers’ team and serves as the Scout leader for Troop 6101. Since all of these extracurricular activities take place after work hours, Ken dedicates his free time to continue to lead and teach the clients not just professionally, but socially as well.

Ken received a Bachelor of Business Administration from Webster University. He has been fortunate to work in a wide variety of fields such as retail, restaurant, maintenance, construction, and the military. This has afforded him the opportunity to work and interact with people of all backgrounds. Through this experience, he has also been given the opportunity to see what a customer expects as well as what the company expects from its staff as it relates to the services they provide.

While working at Opportunities for the past 9½ years, the best part of Ken’s job has been helping the clients learn a skill that they may have been told they were not capable of or one that they didn’t think they would ever be able to achieve. “I love working here because of the smiles and the laughter,” he admits. “I enjoy helping people and love the clients. I want to do everything I can to help them achieve everything they want.” He looks forward to seeing the Business Enterprises venture of Opportunities, Inc. become even more successful, and he hopes many job markets open up so the organization can allow its clients to grow, both personally and professionally Opportunities, Inc. | 6101 N. State Line Avenue | Texarkana Texas 75503 | www.oppinc.org

As a dentist for Eagle Dental, Dr. Punit Patel evaluates a patient’s comprehensive dental needs, which includes assessing new patient dental exams and performing procedures including fillings, extractions, crowns, root canals, implants, and dentures.

Dr. Patel received a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Texas A&M University and attended dental school at the University of Southern California Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry. “I really enjoy providing dental care at Eagle Dental,” he says. “ We have an amazing group of people here that work endlessly to make sure that patients are receiving the care they deserve while having a great experience.”

A certified provider by SureSmile, Dr. Patel offers his patients a friendly and informative dental experience. He admits that he is a people person and believes that to be the reason that he loves being a dental provider. “I love connecting with people,” he admits. “The best part of my job is building relationships with my patients while helping them achieve their dental goals.”

Since he has only been a dental provider at Eagle Dental for 1½ years, Dr. Patel hopes to continue providing quality dental care to the Greater Texarkana area. And he is excited about being an integral member of the community.

Eagle Dental Center | 4009 Moores Lane | Texarkana, Texas 75503 | 903-794-9974 | www.eagledentaltxk.com

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

“2 PIANOS DOWNTOWN AT CROSSTIES” BENEFITS RANDY SAMS OUTREACH SHELTER

“2 Pianos Downtown at Crossties” was held in Downtown Texarkana on April 21 with music, food, and fun. 2 Piano’s ensemble, Josh Lawrence and Dr. Paul Whitt, were the featured entertainers for the evening, and heavy hors d’oeuvres were served by Chef on the Run Jeff Loving. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Randy Sams Outreach Shelter.

Stephanie and James Syler

Josh and Mandy Davis with Donnie Spriggs

Kelly and Tommy Neal

Suki O’Neal, Carson Corbell, Mathew and Danielle Sepcic, Cristy Lummus and Francine Francis

Dr. Nick and Collins Cockerell Sylvia Ingram, Mandy Sams and Becky Bunch

Larry Oxford and David Peavy

Michelle Citty and Larry Wayne Crank

Ron and Vee Collins

Jackie Garrison and Michaela Venable

Kasey Lewis, Christie Brossette, Keely Johnson, Brittney Frost, Lauren Boyd and Justin White

Dan and Gretchen Nichols with Babs and Phil McCoy

Diana and Father Richard Daly

DONNIE SPRIGGS

GENERAL MANAGER

SILVER STAR SMOKEHOUSE

For the past seven years, Donnie Spriggs has served as the general manager at Silver Star Smokehouse. “Most people would say that a general manager oversees day-to-day operations, scheduling, hiring and tracking cash flow. While most of that is true, I am also in the shuttle business, the car repair business, college prep work business, and day care business,” he admits. “I do a lot of things that are not part of the restaurant business because I spend all my day making sure my guests, and most importantly, my employees never need a thing. It’s all about relationships that are built as the foundation of a successful business.”

Donnie always has an open-door policy with his employees. He wants them to always feel free to talk to him about anything that may be bothering them, and if they have suggestions to make things work a little smoother, he invites them to share their ideas with him. “I have no labor shortage here because I make sure my employees never go without,” he confirms. “Having great communication with your staff is truly the best practice. If you take care of them, they take care of you.”

Although he has worked for several different businesses in Texarkana and the surrounding areas, Donnie admits that his employer, David Alvis, has made the difference in his work experiences. “David goes above and beyond, not only his management team, but his employees and especially his community,” Donnie says. “You just do not have very many places that do this anymore; he is the type of boss that I can go to with a problem, and he helps find the solution.”

The people he meets is Donnie’s favorite part of his job. Since people from all over the world want to try true Texas BBQ, Donnie takes time to visit with them as they are traveling through Texarkana to their destination. And he loves the fact that 99% of the time, they will stop in at Silver Star again as they travel back through our city headed for home.

STEVE THOMPSON

PRESIDENT CAPITALTITLE

A native Texan from Plainview, Steve Thompson started his career as a landman in the oil and gas business soon after graduation from Texas Tech University. After starting a family, Steve transitioned into title insurance. “That move turned out to be one of the best decisions in my life because, as it turned out, I possessed a natural talent for it!” he admits.

Known for his extensive knowledge of the industry and recognized for his truly outstanding customer service, Steve feels he’s at his best when resolving difficult situations that could become obstacles to getting the deal done. He views himself as more of a problem solver than anything and works closely with closers to help them foresee and remedy any issues that might arise during a transaction.

Steve is recognized for his infectiously positive attitude, his charismatic personality, and his love of life. He greets everyone with a broad smile and is genuinely pleased to see you. He exclaims, “I absolutely love to get up in the morning and look forward to whatever the day will bring!”

CapitalTitleSM | 3615 Richmond Road | Texarkana, Texas 75503 | 903-716-5959 (office) | 903-280-3573 (cell) www.ctot.com

Dr. Jeff Young is a board-certified dermatologist and the owner/medical director of Forever Young at Dermatology Associates. He was born and raised in Texarkana, Texas, and attended medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. After graduating at the top of his class, he was offered a dermatology residency at the prestigious University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. For over 20 years, he has had the privilege of treating patients in Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. During this time, his practice has consisted of medical and surgical dermatology diagnosis and treatment.

More recently, Dr. Young has recognized the growing desire of patients for an “all inclusive” skin care specialist and destination, and he is excited to expand his practice to include aesthetic services. Forever Young at Dermatology Associates is the only full-service medical spa in Texarkana owned and operated by a board-certified dermatologist. His education and experience, as well as his passion for his profession, make him uniquely qualified to assess and treat all aspects of skin care.

Forever Young at Dermatology Associates | 2011 Moores Lane | Texarkana, Texas 75503 | 903-792-2777 www.fvryoungatdermatologyassociates.com JEFF YOUNG, M.D. BOARD CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST PARTNER, DERMATOLOGY ASSOCIATES, LLP OWNER/MEDICAL DIRECTOR, FOREVER YOUNG AT

Silver Star Smokehouse Texarkana | 5205 West Park Boulevard | Texarkana, Texas

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

CASA FOR CHILDREN TEXARKANA COLORFUL 5K AND FAMILY FUN RUN

CASA for Children Texarkana held its Colorful 5K and Family Fun Run on April 23. The 3.1 mile fitness running/walking event took place on Trinity Baptist Church’s cross country trail. Each race participant released a bag of color into the air, and stations were located throughout the race route where participants were showered with brightly colored powder. All proceeds from the event benefit CASA for Children and the Texarkana Children’s Advocacy Center.

Dylan Braden, Joseph Armstrong and James Armstrong

Heather Roberts and Laney Braden

Sharnell James, Hallie Thompson and Jaylynn Garcia

Jeb White, Landon Price and Mark Bultemeier

Kristi Kirkwood and Bianca Jones

Sesha Daniels, Emily Green and Patricia Smith

Jonathan Kirkwood, Emily Green and Elizabeth Hernandez

Missy Davison and Jenny Crow

Jonathan, Blakely, and Kristi Kirkwood

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

CADDO AREA COUNCIL, BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA, HOSTS SCOUT-O-RAMA

On April 30, the Caddo Area Council, Boy Scouts of America, hosted its annual ScoutO-Rama at Spring Lake Park. The event provided opportunities for Scouts to demonstrate the skills they have learned in Scouts, as well as provided an insight into the Scouting experience for those that are interested in becoming involved in the program.

Troops from the Four States Regions camped throughout the weekend and participated in activities, such as the Pinewood Derby, blacksmithing and bladesmithing, a sunrise service on Sunday, ICS chili cookoff, ax throwing, pedal cars, and more.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND RIBBON

CUTTING HELD AT

SPRING LAKE PARK

Caddo Area Council’s Boy Scout Troop 16 and The City of Texarkana Texas Parks and Recreation Department joined with the Texarkana USA Chamber of Commerce on April 28 to host a Ribbon Cutting at the brand new inclusive playground at Spring Lake Park. The playground, located near 4303 North Park Road, was built as an Eagle Scout project by Boy Scout Troop 16 members in partnership with the Parks and Recreation Department and local donors and sponsors.

Jasper and Janice Richardson Darin Powell and Drake Hargis

Nash Oreña, Pierce Warner, Payne Cook and Chris Ayers

Corbin Simon, Liam Peters, Rowdy Smith and Carson Kelems

Rawsen Copeland and Trip Davis Owen Busby, Heath Wood, Lincoln Clark and Julian Tobey

Mark Herrington, Luke Knudson and Cole Jones

Olivia Kimmel, Rosie Jordan, Morgan Yost and Sigrunn Yost

Lacy and Gerard Peters with Judd McIntosh and Phoenix Reed

Bobby Szymanski, Zack Szymanski and Isaac Binning

Mayor Bob Bruggeman, Frank Delk, Matthew Hackworth, Ben Maxey, Russell Graham, Dolan Graham, Marshall Hackworth, Shawn Maxey, Alex Orr and Joel Orr

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

DOT’S ACE HARDWARE HOSTS BOOMTOWN BORDER CITY STEAK COOKOFF

Area grilling and food enthusiasts gathered at Dot’s Ace Hardware on April 30 to participate in the Boomtown Border City Steak Cookoff. The SCA-sanctioned steak cookoff was held outside at the hardware store. Over $3,000 in prizes were awarded for the best steaks and chicken wings. The event was free to the public to watch and ask questions.

The SCA, or Steak Cookoff Association, allows events like these to be held all over the country. Competitors are given points when they participate in (and hopefully win) a qualifying cookoff, and those points accumulate, allowing winners to compete in nationwide and even worldwide events.

Steaks were included in the entry fee, courtesy of Red River Beef Co., and competitors brought their own grills and supplies. First place in the ancillary category of chicken wings was John Lindsey, second place went to Bobby Oliver, and Brent Howard received third place. The steak winner was also John Lindsey, with second place going to BJ Greene, and Raymond Patterson coming in third.

Savannah, Dakota, Brooklyn and Remington McElyea

Jennifer and Chuck White

Paul Forand and Craig Forand

Dani Hamblett and Traci Pitman

Allen Newton and Jim Holland

Devin Jennings and Kim Waggner

Chris Dumas and Robert Whitehead Broz Powell and Kristi Gildon

Steve Jimenez and Shawna Roppolo

Bobby Oliver

Joe Early, Donna Early and Chuck Evans

Kanon Walker, Santanna Beck and Kimberly Beck

Dot Williford, Bob Lyndon and Devin Jennings

Nick Liu, Amanda Liu, Claire Torrans, Josh Field and Jason Henry

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HOSTS DIAMOND FOR DOORWAYS

On May 13, Habitat for Humanity hosted Diamonds for Doorways at Silvermoon on Broad. The event featured a silent auction, raffle, casino night, and a chance to win Lagos bracelets donated by Crocker’s Jewelers. Heavy hors d’oeuvres by Chef on the Run Jeff Loving and refreshments were also served.

Kelly Rose and Greg Land

Lesa and Tony Asbille

Pat and Michelle Walraven with Tirsa Miller-Green and Jason Green

Sarah Hurst and Amelia Baker

Eric Cain and Taryn Ashley

Shane and Misty Parker

Mark Luckett and Gini Ousley

Austin and Sky Krug

Caleb Mudford, Harly Jones and James Kiel

Elizabeth Smith

Haley Rainey and Holly Craigen

Mary Wormington, Marion Criddle, Melissa Douglass and Amanda Henderson

Jeremy McClure, Cassie Brooks, Teresa and Jeff Smith

Thresa Amison, Katherine Morgan and Jenny Dodez

TEEING UP IN

TEXARKANA

LOCAL PROFESSIONAL GOLFERS SHARE TIPS WHILE SCHOOL DISTRICTS CONTINUE TO TEACH UPCOMING GOLF CHAMPIONS

by PEYTON SIMS

It all started with Texarkana Country Club.

What once was a 9 hole golf course with sand putting greens, the beloved Texarkana Country Club opened for business 108 years ago in 1914. Now with 18 holes –– and thankfully the removal of the sand greens –– an abundance of members continue to return to Texarkana’s oldest club, year after year.

Not too far behind TCC, in 1962, Northridge Country Club brought the love for tennis and golf to the Texarkana community. As you drive down “Bill Rogers Drive,” it doesn’t take long for the elegant clubhouse to come into view.

From Texarkana native Bill Rogers who won the 1981 Open Championship to Byron Nelson who now has PGA tournaments named after him in remembrance, the local country clubs have been the foundation of many pro golfers’ careers.

Even today, local districts such as Texas High School and Pleasant Grove High School continue to teach upcoming golf champions every season. Considering that his dad is the head golf professional at Texarkana Country Club, it didn’t take long for Pleasant Grove graduate Sean Romero to get into golf.

After both a high school and college career fueled by the sport, Sean became a professional golfer in 2015 where he plays on the APT Tour. “If you want to go pro, you must work hard on your game and have total belief in yourself that you belong,” he says.

Just as Sean Romero was graduating from Pleasant Grove in 2011, Zack Fischer graduated from college and was eager to begin his professional golf career.

Graduating from Texas High in 2007, Zack continued to follow his passion for golf into college. Even throughout his professional career, he often finds himself reflecting on advice that was given to him on Texarkana’s courses. “My swing coach has always told me the same thing: everyday you go out to practice, whether it’s just playing nine holes with a friend, or you’re playing in the U.S. open,” he remarks. “Every day is just stacking one thing on top of another, so each day you go out to the golf course, you’re trying to make your wall a little bit stronger. Texarkana definitely prepared me and gave me a lot of bricks to put in the wall. If it wasn’t for Texarkana, I probably wouldn’t be where I am now.”

Today, there are many high school golfers who may soon follow in the footsteps

Sean Rommel became a professional golfer in 2015 and plays on the APT Tour.

Pleasant Grove’s boys’ and girls’

teams both finished 5th at

with

golf

regionals

four teams going to state. Team members are: (front row) Kate Hindman, Haven Johnson Aly Bean, Morgan Formes, and Alia Seares; (back row) Coach Gina Clark, Junior Power, Parker Pruett, Saxton Lawrence, Kaiden Neeley, Corbyn Spry, Braden Asimos, and Coach Ryan Romero.

The Texas High Tigers golf team won the district 15-5A championship on March 29 at the Tempest Golf Club in Gladewater. Team members are: Evan Sutton, Will Davis, John D. Patterson, Thomas Curry (holding trophy) Jackson Patterson, Jack Wilson, and Coach Ryan Huntze.

of local professionals. In the past year at Texas High, the girl’s team has won two district championships, the boy’s team has won the district championship three years in a row –– finished runner-up in regionals twice –– while also making it to the state tournament two years in a row.

Thanks to his dad, Texas High School senior Thomas Curry has been exposed to golf throughout his childhood. However, Thomas said it wasn’t until he was 10 years old that he started enjoying the game himself. “Fortunately, I actually live off of Texarkana Country Club,” he admits. “I was a big tennis player growing up, and then one day my dad asked me to come golf with him and try it out. I was like, ‘Yeah, sure, why not?’ I went out that day, and then the next day and then the next, and the next. I just fell in love with it.”

Throughout high school, Thomas’ coaches have continued to help him improve his golf skills each day. Texas High’s head coach, Ryan Huntze, said he uses the school’s indoor golf facilities –– which is one of the best in the state –– and their own driving range to his team’s advantage. “Overall, I think our goal as a team is improvement,” he acknowledges. “We try not to focus on winning or losing, but just on becoming a better golfer. Each day, we try to find a way to get better than we were the day before. At the end of the year, we could look back and see how much everyone has improved.”

Recently, Pleasant Grove’s boys’ and girls’ golf teams both finished 5th at regionals with four teams going to state. PG head coach, Ryan Romero, said he has seen unbelievable growth in the team since the beginning of the year. “The main goal I want to get across to my players is to enjoy the game, and to enjoy the process of getting better,” he says. “Golf is about trying your best on every shot and accepting the outcome.”

As she watches their golfers grow with their patience and confidence, PG assistant golf coach Gina Clark said the team’s willingness to learn and be coachable has already helped improve their game. “As a coach, one of my main goals is to help young players grow out of their sport,” she explains. “We want them to be the best they can be on the course, in the classroom, and in everyday life.”

Throughout his career, professional golfer Zack Fischer often reflects on advice that was given to him on Texarkana’s courses.

A CONVERSATION WITH PROFESSIONAL GOLFER SEAN ROMERO

A CONVERSATION WITH PROFESSIONAL GOLFER ZACK FISCHER

Where did you go to high school/college?

I went to Pleasant Grove High School and graduated in 2011. For college, I went to the University of New Mexico, and then graduated in 2015.

When did you get your pro card?

I turned pro after I graduated college in 2015. While I don’t have a tour card, I just play on the APT tour –– which is a mini tour.

Who introduced you to golf and at what age?

I don’t remember the exact age I got into golf. My dad introduced me to the sport as soon as I was able to swing a club. He’s the head golf professional at Texarkana Country Club, so I was able to grow up out there.

What would you tell someone who aspires to go pro?

If you want to go pro, you must work hard on your game and have total belief in yourself that you belong.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Hopefully in 10 years, I’ll be on the PGA Tour.

What’s your favorite golfing story that involves you?

I don’t have one that’s recent. I haven’t played well.

Where did you go to high school/college?

I went to Texas High School and graduated in 2007, and then went to The University of Texas at Arlington for college and graduated in 2011.

When did you get your pro card?

My career has kind of been interesting. I turned pro after the summer of 2011, and I got my card in 2014. I lost it in 2017, got it back in 2019, then I lost it again. Now, I have it back for this year.

Who introduced you to golf and at what age?

I was introduced to golf by my dad. He said when I was 2 years old, he would come back from the golf course, and I’d be there in my diaper, swinging a wooden spoon at a plastic golf ball. I didn’t play my first round of golf until I was 4.

What would you tell someone who aspires to go pro?

It’s a matter of putting in a lot of hard work. I know a lot of people who didn’t start golfing until they were teenagers, but they still made it to the professionals. It’s easier to start earlier, but you can do it at any age ––especially if you put your mind and soul into it. It seems like the hardest thing is having a social life. There will be days it’s rainy and 40 degrees outside, but you’re still practicing. You have to put the time and effort in –– you have to love it.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

The crazy thing is that I have a little girl, and she would be 11 years old. I would love to be on the PGA Tour, and maybe even have some wins. I want to spend time with my family and be able to pick what tournaments I’m playing, but it’d be a huge blessing if I made it to the PGA Tour.

What’s your favorite golfing story that involves you?

I was playing a few years ago, and I got a local caddy. He was a teenager who was very unaware of golf. He was carrying my golf bag, and he put it down on the green. I was trying to tell him he couldn’t do that. He caddied all day for the final round, and then throughout the tournament, he realized the tournament was a weekend event. He said, “I can’t do the weekend event; you’re going to have to find someone else.” So at that moment, I realized I was going to have to find a new caddy all while trying to make the cut in the tournament.

JUNE 2022

JUNE 7-9

First Baptist Church Texarkana will host Preschool Camp from 9 a.m. to 12 noon for ages 3 through kindergarten. Register at: www. fbctexarkana.org/playdaze.

JUNE 11

HandsOn Texarkana will present its Texarkana Dragon Boat Race Festival at Bringle Lake Park. Attendees can watch dragon boat races, shop vendor booths, enjoy food trucks and music, while supporting a good cause. For more information, call 903-798-3211.

JUNE 13-17

First Baptist Church Texarkana will host Student Camp at Shepherd of the Ozarks in Harriet, Arkansas, for sixth through twelfth grades. Register at: www.fbctexarkana. org/cultivate.

JUNE 24-27

First Baptist Church Texarkana will host Children’s Camp at Lakeview Baptist Assembly in Lone Star, Texas, for third through fifth grades. Register at: www.fbctexarkana. org/kidscamp.

JUNE 25

Caddo Area Council, Boy Scouts of America, will host Rumble in the Park Car and Motorcycle Show from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Spring Lake Park. For tickets, visit: www. scoutingevent.com.

Experts Ask the

CARRIE TRUSTY

Director of Marketing, MRC Cornerstone Retirement Community

What are some tips for downsizing?

There is no magic wand that makes downsizing an easy task.  So many of us have great intentions, though getting into it can be overwhelming. The first step is simply to begin.  Start by sorting what to keep, sell, or donate. It is good to go one room at a time and start with the items you are least attached to. Ask for help.  Start with family and friends.  There are also services such as estate sales professionals that can assist. Take time to appreciate your memories and share stories through the process.

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

photo by PEYTON SIMS

MIRACLE My Husband is a

by VICKI MELDE

Life can certainly be full of twists and turns. And sometimes those occurrences happen in the blink of an eye, and life is never the same. Joseph “Glynn” Fuller experienced not one, but two, life-altering events that changed the course of his life but didn’t shake his faith.

Glynn was born in Texarkana, Texas, in 1953 and grew up in the Sunset area and attended Dunbar, later graduating from Texas High School in 1972. “He was a rather quiet individual who loved math,” his wife, Bertie, shared. “Glynn was athletic and played basketball and football – but he excelled in football. He later practiced Taekwondo in his early twenties and thirties and earned a Black Belt. I’m certain these activities strengthened his body for what was to come.”

The Fullers’ story is definitely one of faith and family. Glynn had married young and was raising his four children – two sons and two daughters – alone. Bertie had also married young and had two children – two daughters – whom she was also raising alone. They met in 1991 at Sunset Church of God in Christ. “I had recently relocated from Miami, Florida, to the Texarkana area due to a job promotion at the Federal Prison System as supervisor of education,” Bertie recalled. “We both loved church and actually met through our children who all attended the Liberty-Eylau Independent School District. I later learned that Glynn’s oldest son, Joseph Fuller, Jr., who had met me through my oldest daughter, Tiffany Curry Kennedy, had told his dad that he met this beautiful woman that he should meet. We lived in the Prison Reservation houses, and he had driven by several times trying to catch a glimpse of me, but he never did until I decided to attend their church as we were the same denomination.”

The rest is history – the Fullers were married seven months later on September 28, 1991.

“We were pretty much like the Brady Bunch,” Bertie reminisced. “We loved to travel to my hometown of Chicago and Memphis, Tennessee. Glynn loved driving his 1958 Chevrolet through town as it was his first car purchased when he was 14 years of age. It’s still his pride and joy!”

While working as a machinist at Smith-Blair, which was known as Rockwell at the time, Glynn acquired the nickname “Duck.” An accident at work was the first life-changing event he experienced. He fell 20 feet from a crane, straddled a beam and got up and walked away. No ambulance was called and, miraculously, he continued his shift. He continued to work for a month or more until he was unable to continue and went to a doctor. Glynn was diagnosed with internal bleeding and a back injury. This injury led to high blood pressure caused by trauma which forced him to retire early due to being disabled.

Bertie continued to work at the Federal Prison until her retirement in 2010. “I thought we would be having a joyous time, but God had other plans for

BERTIE

FULLER SHARES HER HUSBAND GLYNN’S AMAZING STORY OF CHALLENGES AND THE FAITH TO OVERCOME THEM

Once Glynn returned home via ambulance from UAMS Little Rock, Bertie and Glynn were thrilled that he was able to return to church for the first time after being hospitalized. They used a Hoyer Hydraulic Lift to place Glynn in the wheelchair, then his son, Derian, physically picked him up and placed him in and out of the car. Bertie calls this photo, “The first of many firsts.”

our lives,” Bertie explained. “Four years after I retired, Glynn was diagnosed with renal disease in January 2014, and four months later, he needed dialysis three times a week for four hours a day. It was difficult but we made it work and continued to travel to various church conventions by planning ahead.”

The Fullers registered for a transplant at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) in Little Rock, and Glynn was approved to be placed on the waiting list. They waited six years before they got “the call” on November 14, 2020. “I can remember like it was yesterday,” Bertie recalled. “We were so excited and so were our church family, family, and friends.”

By midnight, Glynn was in surgery and arrived back at his room around 7 a.m. where Bertie was waiting for him – a bit of a miracle in itself due to COVID. “It wasn’t long before I was discovered still in the room and told I had to leave,” Bertie recounted. “But God had angels in place. My friend, Barbara Pitts Riley, who is a part of my support group, had already booked me a room at a nearby hotel.”

Everything looked well, and Glynn was up and walking the next day, and by day three when the doctors made their rounds, they were considering discharging him in three to five days. But then he started looking bad – his eyes sunken. The doctors kept trying to figure out what was going on for nine days when they discovered that his colon had been nicked. Glynn was septic and needed surgery immediately. “It took nine days for doctors to discover this. He looked like death,” Bertie shared. “We thought the nightmare was over and recovery was on the way, but then a blockage of some sort occurred. I was told he was not healing right. They had to go back and remove more of his colon and also repaired an existing hernia. After these procedures, Glynn was not able to get up.”

The downward spiral continued as Glynn developed issues with his lungs and had to be given a trach and feeding tube. “It went from bad to worse,” Bertie stated solemnly. “He was in God’s hands. I had his name on every prayer list of which I knew. People were praying all over, and my neighbors were taking care of my house.”

Eventually, Bertie had used all the hotel points that were donated to her by family. It was then that another small miracle occurred. Her god-daughter, attorney Daryl “Toni” Taylor, reached out to her. “I had no idea that she had relocated from Pine Buff to Little Rock two years prior and was living in the Governor’s Mansion District which was only minutes from the hospital,” Bertie said. “She told me I could come and stay with her for as long as I needed. I did not want to leave my husband. I stayed with him day and night.”

Glynn was finally released to CHRISTUS St. Michael’s step-down unit in April or May. They worked with him until he was able to go to Encompass for further rehabilitation. By this time, the trach had been removed, and he was “scooting around in the wheelchair.” Bertie thought he was almost home when one week prior to release, he was septic again. “He was airlifted to UAMS where he was treated once again. He coded five times, and I was told to call the family in. Amazingly, he coded a sixth time, but his heart started back on its own – and kept beating! God is faithful to His Word. We prayed and God listened. Of course, this was all so traumatic for me but God gave me strength to go on.”

The kidney was still functioning, but Glynn had breathing and lung issues again and had to be trached and tube fed again. This time they wanted to send him home on Hospice care because they said he wouldn’t get back to where he was. Bertie talked to Hospice staff who said they would make him comfortable. “He wanted to come home – but not to die as they had thought,” Bertie recalled. “He was tired. We brought him home after I called Encompass who told me they would take him since he had been a patient there prior to being sent back to UAMS.”

“Angels in disguise,” Bertie continued. “Encompass staff worked with my husband. They had faith too, and this was encouraging to me. Little by little, the speech therapist worked with him and soon he was on food again. The physical and occupational therapists worked with him, and soon he was scooting around on a rollator/walker. We had several other bumps in the road and had to return to UAMS. Then the news came that we never wanted to hear – the kidney failed. It went into rejection, and this time Glynn was sent home on dialysis again. We

Bertie (center) with her daughters, Helen McElveen and Tiffany Kennedy.

After Glynn’s ordeal, his best friend, Deacon Elbert Shelton, visited the Fullers in their home.

Glynn and Bertie surrounded by their children: Derian Fuller, LaCrystal Cheathem, Joseph Fuller, Jr., and Tiffany Kennedy

The Fullers are so thankful for the support and prayers they received from their church family, local community, family, and friends while Glynn was at UAMS

can accept God’s plan for his life because he’s alive and getting stronger every day. When the storms of life are raging, we learned to trust God.”

Glynn’s journey spanned 17 months. During that time, Bertie had to learn from the Encompass nurses to operate medical equipment to tube feed Glynn until he was able to eat by mouth, how to clean his trach and manage his oxygen until he was able to breathe on his own, and maintain his hygiene until he was able to do these things on his own. She expressed deep gratitude for those she believes God placed in her path – the medical professionals from Encompass,

UAMS, Enhabit Home Health & Hospice, and CHRISTUS St. Michael, the DaVita staff who stayed in contact with them throughout the journey, and her family, church family, Zeta family, neighbors, and support group. Throughout this extremely challenging period, it was her faith, her support group, and the “prayers of the righteous” that gave Bertie strength. The way Glynn and Bertie faced his severe health issues with grace and faith are a true testament to Bertie’s favorite scripture – Psalms 118:17 – I will live and not die and proclaim what God has done.

Glynn’s son, Joseph G. Fuller, Jr., visits his dad at UAMS Little Rock. While Glynn was in the hospital, the children often took turns relieving Bertie so she could come home for a day or two to take care of their home and recharge a bit.

Glynn works with Zayne Otwell, physical therapist with Enhabit Home Health & Hospice, formerly Encompass.

Pamela Moore, Glynn’s daughter, with his greatgranddaughter, August.

Little Rock. Bertie’s cousin, Pastor Christopher Griggs, traveled from Memphis, Tennessee, to visit and pray with Glynn last November.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

TEMPLE MEMORIAL PEDIATRIC CENTER’S TEE UP FOR TEMPLE

The annual Tee Up for Temple golf tournament was held on May 2 at Texarkana Country Club with 19 teams participating. All proceeds from the tournament benefitted Temple Memorial Pediatric Center. Winners were: first flight, first place – Greg Giles, Clayton Hass, Chuck Garner and Danny Maxey; second place – Michael Griffin, Derek Giles, Jerry Rochelle and Bruce Hornbuckle; third place – Jason Ross, Braxton Langdon, Mike Smith and Jon Sheppard; second flight, first place – Jason Cree, Adam Birchfield, Jeff Cowgill and Wyatt Johnson; second place – Tommy Wrinkle, Jacob Triptow and Aaron Thompson; third place – Jason Neeley, Robbie Carter, Mike Rogers and Taylor Hedrick.

Dr. Bob and Nan Fry with Kevin Stanley and Leon Sanderson

Robert Sanderson, Bradley Wright, Mark Townsend and Chris Richards

William Morriss, Mike Murrah, Don Morriss and Danny Gray

Bruce Hornbuckle, Michael Griffin, Derek Giles and Jerry Rochelle

Mike Rogers, Jason Neeley, Taylor Hendrick and Dr. Robee Carter

Sonny Brainard, David Hickerson, Allen Brown and Blaine Graves

Ryan Bennett, Greg Milhorn, Brett Rhinehart and Hunter Bobo

Levi Ponder, Sandy Varner and Gina Parish

Kim Fowler, Amanda Wade, Levi Ponder, Sandy Varner, Shannon Rowe and Gina Parish

Julie Sanderson, Allen Clements, Steve Weed and Freddie Johns

Danny Maxey, Clayton Hass, Greg Giles and Chuck Gardner

Blaire Barlow and Morgan Pritchett

HISTORY HAPPENS...

BY VELVET HALL COOL Board President of the Texarkana Museums System

History happens on a timeline, a continuum of events. Often, as history happens, it does so while we are quietly unaware of the impact occurring and must leave judgements to be made by future generations. The strengths or weaknesses of presidents may be judged by history and time through different lenses than those we wear in the present. Historic events such as the births of towns, beginnings of movements, and progression of revolutions often evoke the names of those who laid down roots, spearheaded causes, and sparked change. A. L. Ghio, Cesar Chavez, and Martin Luther King, Jr. wear recognizable names.

As we celebrate Father’s Day, I think of the fathers who beget fathers who beget fathers and how lineage and genealogy continue as a straight line marching forward with ever increasing opportunities for families to make their mark. In many places, familial names will often repeat with generation after generation striving to leave a stronger legacy than the prior generation. We don’t often think about how these lines can sometimes end as quickly as they rise.

When fathers no longer produce sons to produce sons, names can escape our memory. In my family, my father is the last of my paternal family name, and my uncle was the last of my maternal family name line. In younger years, this fact did not even register. But as I look at old photographs of Texarkana, hear stories of the “founding families” and see names repeat, I begin to feel a sadness at the loss of names from history books.

Luckily, the growth of the value of women, interest in genealogy and technology, and even social media show promise in bridging the gap for this loss of identity and history. Changes to our patterns of thought can allow families to continue to be recognized long after their names morph into different identities. The Offenhausers make way for the Morrisses; the Whitmarshes become the Holmans who become the Moores; and the Reads become the Colloms. Texarkana’s own “Father of History,” Wilbur Smith, passes on his legacy to his nephew, Griff Hubbard, and time marches on.

Women are more likely to incorporate their maiden identities, in a sense marrying their maiden names with their married names through the use of middle names and hyphens. A practice that was extremely controversial when an Arkansas Governor’s wife first attempted the practice is now almost commonplace and allows familial names to flourish a little more. Genealogy sites and DNA testing allow science and the outreach of others to connect branches of family trees with better accuracy and quicker results than in the past.

The blitz of Facebook and Twitter and other social media sites allows us to connect more intimately with family members who have branched out into corners of the world. We can connect with long lost friends and follow their family’s growth.

With these changes, all our names begin to matter. The names of our fathers may no longer carry on in a straight path, but they will branch further and resonate more widely.

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.

Fred Offenhauser, circa 1890

A.L. Ghio, circa 1890

Wilbur Smith makes a speech in front of the Museum of Regional History donated by Offenhauser Insurance.

by

photo

PEYTON SIMS

BY INSPIRED

HOPE

DON STILL, THE MAYOR OF HOPE, ARKANSAS, VALUES HIS HOMETOWN, HIS FAMILY, HIS BUSINESS, AND HIS HOBBIES

by AMBER E. WILLMAN

Charles Schultz (yes, that Charles Schultz of “Peanuts,” “Charlie Brown,” and “Snoopy” fame) said, “A whole stack of memories never equal one little hope.”

Clearly, Mr. Schultz never visited Hope, Arkansas. Hope is a small town whose citizens are making big memories. Leading the charge is Mayor Don Still.

By day, Don runs Still’s Auto Service with his brother, Jewell, and their families. The Still brothers are second generation owners; the company was founded in 1959 by their father. “My daddy was the son of a sharecropper and later a carpenter,” Don says. “During the war [WWII], he was an Air Force mechanic and tail gunner man.”

Like many returning soldiers, Don’s father returned home with a new set of skills thanks to the United States Army Air Force and put those skills to good use in a business of his own. Upon his retirement, Don and Jewell took over management. “I think the one reason I followed my father into the auto repair business is because growing up beside him, he was willing to help people and enjoyed his work. I guess the joy of service was passed down,” Don says.

When Don isn’t working on cars, he is working on hope. And that isn’t a euphemism. For just over a year, Don has served Hope as its mayor. Unlike other cities, he didn’t have

to run for the position. He did have to run for the city’s board of directors. The mayor is elected from the board while the city manager, a hired position, oversees the dayto-day workings of the city. “I have always been proud of calling Hope my home,” Don says. “Being mayor makes it special. I am very proud to represent our city, and I plan on running in November for my next term.”

Don says learning the workings of the city has been a continuous process. He enjoys being involved with planning, zoning, tourism, and even wastewater. One of the biggest challenges has been keeping the city running through the pandemic. “Good department heads and our city manager made it work. It was great to see everything start up again. It is wonderful to see people in our parks, downtown, and in restaurants and hotels,” Don acknowledges.

For those not “in the know,” Hope, Arkansas, is the birthplace of former President William J. Clinton. Don has had the opportunity to meet President Clinton and to know former Governor Mike Huckabee. “It is quite an honor to have the Clinton Birthplace National Park in Hope,” Don says. “We welcome over 10,000 visitors to the city each year. We show them some good southern charm.”

Other city attractions include the Hope

Betsy and Don having dinner at Pop’s Place, one of their favorite restaurants in Texarkana.

Watermelon Festival, which includes watermelon eating, softball games, crafts, and music. There is also the Train Days, July fireworks, and a Paul Klipsch Day. “I cut the ribbon on the Paul Klipsch Heritage Museum Visitor Center. He is another famous son from Hope and the inventor of the Klipsch loudspeakers known worldwide.”

Besides his hometown, Don’s other passion is running. “It has taken me all over America,” he says.

Don has run races from the White House in D.C. with President Clinton to the streets of Boston to the Garden of the Gods in Colorado. What began as a fitness hobby has turned into a great way to clear his head. Since 1980, Don has run 80 marathons; five of them are Boston Marathons. Known as the Forrest Gump of Hope, he has met great people along the way, including his better half, Betsy, at a 5K in Texarkana.

Don encourages anyone who is interested to follow through and pursue running as a hobby. “Start slow and build up. Set a goal for a 5K. It is okay to run or walk. Just keep moving. Set a time to exercise two or three times per week and stay with it. You will feel better in two weeks. You can do it,” he says.

There is a man and his pride is in his town, a man and his passion for his hobby, but there is also a man and his love for his family. At the heart of the matter, Don is a husband and father. Betsy and Don have two daughters. Samantha is a Spanish teacher in Little Rock. Rebecca is in her second year of nursing school at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway. The family enjoys traveling and spending summers on the water at Lake Greeson.

Don’s hometown pride extends to community service. He believes that to “live out loud” is to learn the gifts God has given him and then use them to give back to Him and the community. As such, he is an active member of the First United Methodist Church, Kiwanis Club, and sits on the boards for Klipsch Heritage Museum Association and the Arkansas Great Southwest Tourism Group.

And as if Don’s resumé wasn’t already impressive, add licensed pyrotechnic shooter to the list. For the last 11 years, he has shot displays at his church and last year at the Hope Municipal Airport.

Mr. Schultz probably had great intentions with his original quote. He probably hoped (pun intended) that it would serve as a reminder that a person can’t live in the past and has to keep moving forward. But for the citizens of Hope, Arkansas, it isn’t one or the other. They are doing both. None more so than Mayor Don Still. The people of Hope are living for the future by making memories. Memories are what sustains a person when the world shuts down, but Hope is the belief that the world will right itself eventually.

An avid runner, Don participated in the Boston Marathon in 2018.

Don, Rebecca, Betsy, and Samantha at the family farm in Hope at the golden hour this past March.

Hope Arkansas Mayor Don Still (center) with City Manager Catherine Cook and Police Chief/ Assistant City Manager J.R. Wilson.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

TEXAR PRESENTS LOCAL BANDS, LOCAL BREWS, LOCAL BITES

TEXAR presented Local Bands, Local Brews, Local Bites on May 19 in Downtown Texarkana in front of the Perot Theatre. Musical entertainment was provided by David Howe, Mark Braley, Greg Lynch and Preston Moss of David Howe and the Howelers, while drinks and food were available at Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery.

Robin Christen, Lorie Owen, Keely Bledsoe, David Crenshaw and Summer Nelson

Anita Bland and Tonya Jones

Randy White and Leslie Looney

Mike Turner, Mark Bledsoe and Fallon Turner

Michael and Paula Foster

Wendy Townsend, Deanna Sanders and Lori Wood

Carolyn Duke, Mary Nell Short, Emily Bonner and Kay Lusk

Greg Lynch, David Howe, Mark Braley and Preston Moss – David Howe and the Howelers

Tony and Amy Kirk

Suzy and Robert Irwin

THE REVEREND RICHARD DALY SHOWS A GENUINE COMPASSION FOR PEOPLE BY SERVING IN BOTH LAW ENFORCEMENT AND THE PRIESTHOOD

photo by PEYTON SIMS

TWO AMAZING CAREERS,

ONE SHARED PASSION

by LINDSEY MCMILLAN

The Reverend Richard Daly has adopted his new hometown wholeheartedly. Easygoing and friendly, Richard, also known as Rich to many, shares story after story of his adventurous life of two careers which intertwine very uniquely. He joined St. James Episcopal Church three years ago as their Parochial Vicar. He was ordained a priest in 1991 after attending Nashotah House Theological Seminary in Wisconsin. He was called to the ministry after moving around with various jobs after living in Chicago since he was 16 years old. His father’s family had deep roots in Texas going back to the 1840s. Even when he was living up north for many years, he felt connected to Texas and happy when the opportunity arose for him to return.

After serving at several Episcopal parishes in Wisconsin, Rich moved to Sherman, Texas, where he was the rector at St. Stephen’s for three years. In 1997, his brother, Edmund, was on the police force in Chicago and contacted Rich about a chaplain position with the Chicago Police Department. The thought of this intrigued him and after investigation, he realized he had to take an exam to enter the police academy since he had to become an officer in rank first. At the time, he was having to compete with 28,000 others for 900 openings. After training and

“I can clearly say my pastoral understanding informed my need to adjudicate my police calls with understanding, but never at the expense of my safety, the safety of my partner, or of the community. There were times when I was on the job, I would see the most horrible things people would do to each other and my faith sustained me not to lose hope. I know what it is like to really struggle with being a Christian.”

serving on patrol for three years, he would be able to apply for a chaplain position.

Three years became five, then eight, then eleven, and then in his fourteenth year after being told he still had to keep applying, Rich decided to keep serving until retirement. After 20 years on the force, he would be eligible for continued benefits and full pension. He loved his time serving with the Chicago P.D. even though there were tough, scary moments in a large city. Simultaneously, he also served as an interim priest at parishes across Chicago, filling in the ministry he loved. He always felt like it was his duty to serve in law enforcement, and being able to also serve as a priest kept him from “losing faith in humanity.”

During this time, Rich was a single father to three young daughters. He felt like he was challenged across the board, barely holding it together while he was trying to help others. In fact, when he met his wife, Diana, she worked for one of the parishes who scheduled him to fill in. They married in 2004 after three years of dating. They remained in the Chicago area until he retired in February 2019 and was offered the position at St. James and moved to Texarkana one month later. It has felt like home ever since, as they have been eagerly welcomed by the community. St. James and Texarkana were exactly what he was looking for. It fits them like a glove, and they enjoy getting out and about to downtown events and various fundraisers. His daughters are now grown and living their own lives. Sarah, the oldest lives in Boston. Becca lives in Sheridan, Illinois, and youngest, Rachel, lives in Urbana, Illinois. Rich recalls how after his divorce from the girls’ mother it was a struggle to both work and raise them.

In his pastor role, he led his parishioners, being a shepherd to them. But he also saw himself as a sheep needing guidance. After he met Diana and remarried,

Rich spent one of his last days patrolling in the Rogers Park neighborhood in October 2018.

Rich prepares to distribute Holy Communion at St. James’ Church in Texarkana, Texas.

he could see the progress he had made, working with people and moving on simply saying, “God renews you.” He still has family in Chicago, two brothers and one sister. Sadly, Rich lost a brother last year due to complications with COVID. While reminiscing about stories throughout both careers he says he considers himself more of a police officer than a priest. Witnessing gunfire, responding to difficult situations, and having friends killed in the line of duty has brought out in him the need to see good in others and minister to all. “I have a memory of an incident which I think adequately and appropriately combines my two vocations as a priest and police officer. My regular partner and I had just started our tour of duty, and the dispatcher called us on the radio. My partner and I did not know why our sergeant wanted us there so urgently. Upon arrival to the hospital, he met us at the nurses’ station and said, “Rich, they just brought in a 42-year-old man who is DOA. We tried contacting the hospital chaplain, and the local priests, but no one answered our calls. They wanted prayers said, and I told them I have an Episcopal priest working tonight.” So, I go into the room, in full Chicago police uniform and introduce myself to them.” He looks fondly on his 31 years as a priest and 21 years as a cop and can say they have been two fulfilling careers.

Since he’s not at St. James full-time, Rich also serves as one of the chaplains with

Rich’s thoughts on “living out loud” in Texarkana: “Living loud means I try to be a truly visible individual who people recognize as one who is dedicated to service and the betterment of my community, not just in what I say, but in what I do. It is saying out loud, ‘I am genuinely present for you, and I offer you my full support. You can count on me.’ To me, living large is that I do not just keep in my semi-retired world, but meet the community atlarge, beyond the doors of St. James’ Church, telling others that the larger community of Texarkana, USA, is my home, too. That is why I try to participate in many of the events of around town. My wife and I love living here. I have found a large family called TXK. I love supporting and spending time with that family.”

Two years ago, Rich and his daughters, Becca, Sarah, and Rachel, and wife, Diana, attended a wedding rehearsal in Greenfield, Massachusetts.

the Texarkana Texas Police Department. He goes on ride-alongs and enjoys getting to see the action again even if it’s from the back seat. “They know I’m a person who gets it. I want others to see how I am genuine and authentic,” he says. “Many people put the clergy on an ivory tower and forget that we live real lives.” Diana is a certified optician and works part-time with Family Medical Group.

When not busy with their respective jobs, Rich and Diana love taking cruises. They are going on a two-week one this month. When asked about retirement he simply says, “I enjoy life and want to have fun.” Other hobbies include railroad and stamp collecting. He still has large goals saying, “I want to help people grow in their faith and continue the betterment of Texarkana for everybody.”

As Rich loves being back in Texas, he wasn’t sure what Diana would think about moving here after spending her whole life in the Chicago area. But she loves it and has quickly adjusted. When asked what they miss, he replies, “Though I spent about 36 years of my life there, I can honestly say I do not miss the city. Naturally, I miss my friends, but the city? I do not miss it at all. What I wish I could get down here is some real Chicago style deep dish pizza and Chicago style hot dogs. Those are two of my favorite foods.”

During July 2016, Rich (center) attended the funerals for the five Dallas police officers who were killed in the line of duty.

Rich (standing, second from right) with other Chicago Community Policing Officers at the 24th District Station for National Night Out during August 2018.

Diana and Rich at St. Paul’s Church, in Riverside, Illinois, after celebrating his 25th anniversary of ordination in June 2016.

Exquisite INTERIORS

IMMACULATE. TIMELESS. SECLUDED.

BY SUZY TURNER. PHOTOS BY SUZY OSBURN AND KATELYN PEEK.

Reminiscent of a modern mountain home, Barbara and Robert Trumble’s four bedroom, three bath, two story Redwater beauty is strategically tucked amongst 130 acres with a 10-acre pond directly in the backyard. Located a short drive from town, massive oak trees surround the home, adding solitude and solace to the property. The use of clean lines, natural elements, large windows, and earthy tones accentuate this distinctive contemporary style while geometric shapes and various textures complement the modern design.

Bringing the calm presence of nature inside their 5,700 square foot home was the Trumbles’ inspiration as Robert was building it in 2021. “We love the mountains and the outdoors,” Barbara says. “When our children were younger, we loved taking them hiking in the mountains and spending time in God’s beautiful creation.” It was only fitting that this dynamic couple built a home where the outdoor-indoor transition flows seamlessly.

The Trumbles’ daughter, Suzy Osburn with Seventh Day Design, used her knack for decorating to help design and fully furnish her parents’ home. Live oak hardwood flooring, natural quartzite countertops, and stone walls are just a few of the unique design elements noted throughout the home.

Guests enter into the home through the industrial 14-foot black steel and glass doors, a statement piece for mountain style homes. Once inside, a console table made of reclaimed wood beams holds a massive mirror which reflects light from the front door. Stone walls add beauty and durability to the entryway while a large elk mount situated over the door adds interest and intrigue.

The comfortable living area boasts 25-foot ceilings, adding a light and airy feel to the room. Hand-hewn beams from a barn built in the 1980s are an added eye-catching bonus in this pristine area. L-shaped gray sofas with throw pillows in neutral shades provide plenty of seating for friends and family to gather. A large round wooden coffee table balances out the space while adding an aesthetically pleasing special touch. Oversized windows spread across the back wall offering the perfect vantage point for looking out at the pristine pond.

Stainless appliances and quartzite countertops are abundant in the functional

kitchen. Black pendant lighting hangs above the large island, allowing the perfect amount of light for guests to enjoy a meal. A pot filler faucet is situated above the industrial stove, freeing up countertop space and offering the cook a convenient way to fill the pots for cooking. Shiplap ceilings accented with large wooden beams offer practical and innovative elements to this kitchen space. A walk-in pantry alleviates clutter in the kitchen while offering the perfect storage area for organizing canned goods and small appliances.

Stylish and trendy, a wooden canopy bed serves as the focal point in the master bedroom. Wall-mounted sconces are placed on the stone wall above the night stands. A sitting area with two neutral armchairs provides a soothing place for Barbara and Robert to relax at the end of the day. Beautiful arched doorways lead into the master spa bath. A contemporary freestanding stone tub offers a luxurious atmosphere while the large window allows plenty of natural light inside. The organized walk-in closet includes a built-in vanity area which allows Barbara a space of her own to carry out her daily routine while getting dressed and ready for each new day.

Cooking and relaxing come hand in hand in the outdoor kitchen area. Friends and family gather around the stone fire pit to share stories about their day. Nothing is more refreshing or fun for the Trumbles than taking a swim in their beautiful pool. An outdoor shower offers a refreshing place to cool off while an outdoor bathroom offers a changing area for the adults and the children before heading back inside the home.

A home should always be a reflection of its owners. For the Trumbles, family is everything. It is no surprise that they kept their children and grandchildren in mind while designing and building their beautiful oasis. “In the winter, our favorite thing is our real woodburning fireplace. Nothing beats the cracking and warmth of real wood. In the summer, we love entertaining our family (eight grandchildren with one on the way) on our back porch. We all enjoy taking a swim in the pool, fishing in the pond, and riding horses and ATVs on our land,” Barbara admits. “And our huge bunk room sleeps 8+ kids for everyone to sleep over. Our place is a kids’ paradise, and that was our goal from the beginning.”

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

1ST CHOICE PREGNANCY RESOURCE CENTER

WALK FOR LIFE

1st Choice Pregnancy Resource Center held its 22nd annual Walk for Life on May 7 at Spring Lake Park. Over 100 attendees participated in the events which included a Kids’ Fun Run, Diaper Derby, and the Walk. All funds raised from the event go directly to serving clients of 1st Choice Pregnancy Resource Center.

Janet and Don Turner

Jeff Strutton and Lois Crim

Madelynne Adams, Laila Toubia, and Dr. Claudia Jordan

Michelle Henry and Amy Wren

Don Turner and Pat Evans

Taylor, Mark, John Mark, and Cathy Burgess

Judy Carroll and Adrienne Armstrong

Abby Pickett and Sonny McBay

Ana Ramirez, Linda Norrid, Betty Hignight and Chris Goodsell Art, Rylan and Kyle Pletcher

Evelyn Abhulimen with April and Aairo Reid

Kristie Wright and Sarah Cooper Mishal and Dr. Hayden Hemphill

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

TEXARKANA ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF JARVIS CHRISTIAN COLLEGE ANNOUNCES ITS 2021-2022 LIVING LEGENDS

The Texarkana Alumni Association of Jarvis Christian College recognizes local visionaries in the community who have given generously of their time and talent to help improve the community and the lives of others. The Association is in its fourth year of recognizing community leaders. On April 30, the 2021-2022 Annual Living Legends Community Awards Brunch, “Our Living Legends: Excellence in Every Endeavor,” was held at Liberty-Eylau High School Media Center. Eight community leaders were honored including Rueben Drake, Jr., Emmie Gamble, Rev. James Hawkins, Sr., Marjorie Kelly, Ermer Pondexter, Rev. T.J. Roberson, Tommie Tubbs, and Doris Watson.

On May 6, Jarvis Christian College became Jarvis Christian University. Jarvis Christian University is a historically Black liberal arts, four-year institution affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The mission of the university is to prepare a diverse population of lifelong learners intellectually, socially, spiritually, and personally through providing interactive services and using varied modalities of instructional delivery.

Doris Watson

Ermer Pondexter

Emmie Gamble

Rev. James Hawkins, Sr.

Marjorie Kelly

Rev. T.J. Roberson

Tommie Tubbs

THE ROAD Tra veled less

For my son’s tenth birthday, we let him choose anywhere in the U.S. that he’d like to go, and all he wanted was to play in the ocean, so that’s what I found. On the Gulf Coast side of Florida, about three-fourths of the way down the peninsula, lies Captiva Island. It’s just north of Sanibel Island and is connected via bridge just past the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. It’s absolutely stunning ... from the tropical flora and fauna, to the white sand and crystal clear water. On the very north end of Captiva Island, is South Seas Island Resort. The resort encompasses the northernmost two miles of the island, with over two and half miles of private beach and shoreline. South Seas boasts all of the amenities you would expect with a top-notch resort, including a tennis academy with excellent quality courts (plus racquets and balls available to rent). My son and I enjoyed a few games in the afternoon after we checked in, and yes, he even beat me at a game.

For dining, there are multiple options, and we enjoyed them all. My personal favorite is the Attitudes Beach Bar and Latitudes Taco Stand, located directly on the beach. They even had gluten-free and vegetarian taco options, as well as kid friendly quesadillas and nonalcoholic blended drinks. There’s also The Point, which is next to the resort pool complex and has great views of the end of the island. We even saw a dolphin from our vantage point at dinner. For a more upscale dining experience, Harborside Grill offers breakfast and dinner. Every meal was fantastic, and they had allergy friendly options.

For the active adventurer, there’s Sunny Island Adventures which offers kayak, paddle board, and jet ski rental along with parasailing and banana boats. There are

BY NICHOLE HOLZE

also fishing charters and a sailing school. We had so much fun paddling our kayaks in the bayou and looking for manatees!

South Seas has something for everyone, from couples to families. For families wanting the best of both, they offer their Sea School, which is a hands-on, marine biology focused day camp for kids staying at the resort!

Captiva Island also has some of the best shelling I’ve ever seen, and we had so much fun exploring under the clear water for the perfect shell. My favorite experience: breakfast on the beach, a morning swim, and a send off goodbye from a pod of dolphins that showed up our last morning there. Captiva Island captured our hearts with its magic, and we can’t wait to go back, with our whole family.

Disclaimer: My son and I received a hosted stay in exchange for my work within social media; however, the thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

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.

LEIGH CHEEK age: 45

occupation: Vice President of Treasury Management at Farmers Bank & Trust

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

If I won the lottery, I would contribute to my favorite local nonprofits. I would probably also buy a house on a beach.

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

My free time is spent with my husband, my kids, and our dog, Polly, either hanging out in the backyard by the pool, watching TV, or funny TikTok videos.

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

My one wish is that my kids would always be healthy, happy, successful, and love their life.

At what business could you max out a credit card?

I love T.J. Maxx and also any place that sells plants.

Choose a movie title for the story of your life. “Little Women.”

What are you currently watching on Netflix?

I am currently watching all seasons of “Grey’s Anatomy”… for the third time.

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

I would love to go somewhere in the mountains and stay in a secluded cabin by a stream where there’s lots of nature and wildlife.

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

Life360 (I’m that mom!). Farmers Bank & Trust mobile banking app. Facebook.

What’s your favorite sport to watch, and which team do you root for? Sports are always on the TV at my house, but I really only pay attention when it’s Arkansas Razorback football!

CODY ADAMS age: 32

Occupation: Marketing Coordinator for Renew Integrated Medical Spa

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

I would build a cabin in the mountains with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and a never-ending supply of books.

When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you pass the time? Spending time with my dog, Paris.

If you were allowed to have one wish granted, what would it be? To have the perfect body.

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

Choose a movie title for the story of your life. “Up.”

What are you currently watching on Netflix? “Grace & Frankie.”

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

If you could only have three apps on your smartphone, which would you pick? Apple Music. DJI Mimo. Audible.

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

“ LIVING OUT LOUD ”

FOR YOU PERSONALLY, WHAT DOES “LIVING OUT LOUD” MEAN?

To me, “living out loud” isn’t loud at all. It’s quiet moments thanking God each day for our many blessings. It’s being humble and providing grace. It’s demonstrating love to our family and all of those around us. It’s appreciating everything about this ordinary, hectic, wonderful, and beautiful life.

“Living out loud” means walking through life being vulnerable and showing others exactly who you are no matter anyone else’s opinion.