Four States Living Magazine July 2021

ON THE COVER - JULY 2021

After moving to the Dallas area in 2017, Shawn (Woodruff) and Justin Bigby decided to open their hearts and their home to follow the call as foster parents. Devoted to each other and their two young biological sons, Knox and Charlie, they were elated when they found out that they would have the opportunity to adopt two beautiful baby girls that they had fostered, Olivia and Josie. Now their family is complete, and they encourage others to get involved in making a difference in the life of a child, whether through fostering, serving as a CASA, or donating clothing/supplies to foster families.

See “If Not Us, Who?” on page 8.

OF CONTENTS

Breast cancer survivor Katina Levingston founded The Tough Kookie Foundation to support breast and childhood cancer survivors, starting on page 16.

photo by Janna Veenstra Photography

The Way I See It...

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Robin Rogers, Ed.D.

The last time I checked, there were almost 220 children in Miller and Bowie Counties in foster care and only 20 foster homes. Think about that for a minute. Locally, there are only 40 placements for foster children, and the rest of the kids (around 180 little humans – or 9 classrooms full) get sent out of the area.

Now, admittedly, I haven’t been personally involved with the foster care system in our area, but Four States Living has done a story on Angela Coston, the executive director of “For the Sake of One,” and I knew we have incredible needs to be met for children, families, and case workers. The goal of fostering is to provide a safe haven for children while their parents work to get their kids back. Going into a foster home cannot be easy for kids, so people who choose to foster need to have big hearts and lots of love to give. In the same breath, some people might find it difficult to have children come and live with them for a year and then never see those kids again. The difference is choices. As adults, we choose our outcomes. The idea that at any given time, there might be 180 local children who never asked to be displaced yet need love, care, and attention and are shipped out to other cities truly makes my heart ache.

Nelson Mandela said, “History will judge us by the difference we make in the everyday lives of children.”

Four St ates Living

From how we comfort our children to how we play to how we educate them, the future of all societies rests in parenting and families. If you are fortunate enough to have conversations about play dates or summer camps or school choice or what foods your children eat, count yourself blessed. Not every child is as lucky.

As a community, we must do better. Being aware of how many children need a place to lay their heads is the first step. I had no idea.

A month or so ago, I saw a celebratory photo on social media of Shawn (Woodruff) Bigby and her family. Shawn and her husband, Justin, recently adopted two children who they were fostering. The Bigbys already had two biological little boys when they decided to open their home to fostering. The love they have shown to the two baby girls who came to them as preemies and foster children was unwavering. As it turned out, the biological mothers of both girls wanted their daughters to stay with the Bigbys forever. Shawn and Justin did not know just how much their lives would change when they signed up to provide care, love, and shelter for foster children, but for two beautiful girls, their choice has changed the course of their entire lives.

When I think about the choices I have made over the course of my life, I see that I could have been a

PUBLISHER

Dr. Robin Rogers

EDITOR

Suzy Turner

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Kim McMurry

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Lori Rochelle

FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHER

Alamond Photography

EVENT PHOTOGRAPHERS

Abby Elliott

FOUR

Peyton Sims FOURSTATESLIVING

FEATURED COLUMNISTS

Nichole Holze

Donnie Spriggs

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jade Fitch

Jennifer Jordan

Lindsey McMillan

Vicki Melde

Ellen Orr

Lisa Porterfield Thompson

Amber E. Willman

foster parent. I opened my home for several years to students from other countries. Why did I do that? Well, because someone asked me to. My head has been in the sand for so many years where fostering is concerned. If nobody is talking about needs, then maybe they don’t exist? Hardly. Perhaps I was too bogged down with vacations, camps, appointments, and screen time to see that there were little ones down the street needing the energy I gave to less meaningful things.

Fostering is about loving and caring for a child or children in your home until they can go back to their original homes. Sometimes, like in the Bigby family, adoptions do result, but kind and loving people who enjoy children can be foster families without adopting. We have a real need here in Texarkana. “For the Sake of One” is a nonprofit organization that Shawn and Justin love and support. In order to create more foster homes, we have to talk about the needs. I think that is why the Bigbys were so gracious to let us share their story. My hope is that someone reads this issue and becomes inspired to partner, donate to, or get involved with fostering because of Shawn and Justin. The ripple effect is great. Let’s be part of spreading the love.

Hope you have a wonderful July, and as always, thanks for reading FSLM.

Do You Have a Story or a Photo?

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

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photo by JANNA VEENSTRA PHOTOGRAPHY

If Not Us, WHO?

FOLLOWING THE CALL TO FOSTER LEADS TO TWO OF THE BIGGEST BLESSINGS IN SHAWN AND JUSTIN BIGBY’S LIVES

by VICKI MELDE

It is difficult to imagine how devastating it would be to have a child placed in your care for months – possibly even years –only to be removed. For those who follow the call to become foster parents, this is the reality they must face before ever agreeing to accept this awesome responsibility. For many with the best intentions, that possibility is so daunting that it prevents them from taking on this vital role for children desperately in need of the care and stability that is missing in their young lives.

For those who push past their fears and become foster parents, the blessings far outweigh the challenges. While some choose to take this step as a path toward adoption, others go into it knowing that adoption is not their intent. It is simply to support the primary goal of foster care – reunification of the family – by providing a safe, loving environment for a child who cannot choose what happens to them.

Justin and Shawn (Woodruff) Bigby had thought and prayed about expanding their family through serving as foster parents for quite some time. As parents to two young boys 11 months apart, they didn’t take the decision lightly. “My heart was really yearning for adoption, and I knew we could have a child in our home for one to two years and then have them leave,” Shawn shared. “After a lot of prayer, we felt it was still something we were called to do, and if it didn’t end in adoption, then that was not God’s plan. We finally decided to face the fear and keep following this route that we felt we were called to take.” After confidently deciding to move forward, the Bigbys were licensed within a few months and had a baby in their home about two months later.

To understand their commitment to helping children whose worlds

Since they were snowed in this past February, Knox and Charlie spent some quality time playing with their sisters, Olivia and Josie.

have been ripped apart, it is vital to get to know the Bigbys and what “makes them tick.” Shawn grew up in Redwater and attended Texarkana College and The University of Texas at Arlington. Justin is a California guy who moved to Texas after high school. “We were both living in Arlington and had mutual friends which is how we met in 2007,” Shawn explained. “We were married in 2011.” After they married, the Bigbys moved back to Texarkana where Justin worked at Jim Bob Hambleton State Farm, and Shawn worked at her dad’s business – Crocker’s Jewelers. When Justin got the opportunity to open his own State Farm agency in Carrollton, Texas, in 2017, the couple moved to the Dallas area.

“A year after we moved here, I knew I wanted to plug into our new community by volunteering,” Shawn remembered. “After some research, I decided to do that by becoming a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). Being a CASA plugged me into the foster care world which was very foreign to me. After an 18 month long case, I decided to take a break from CASA to pursue fostering.” The couple decided that Shawn would stay at home with the children when they began serving as foster parents.

Shawn and Justin’s respect and admiration for each other is evident. “Shawn is the glue that

On adoption day, April 21, the Bigbys were able to share their excitement with all of their family members since the adoption took place via Zoom.

holds our family together,” Justin admitted. “She gives and has given up everything to be the best mom to our four kids. (Yes, four kids – stay tuned.) She’s always growing – never wanting to be complacent – and she’s my biggest supporter.”

Likewise, Shawn expressed the quality she loves most about Justin. “He loves and puts his family above everything!” She continued, “He is such a hard worker and an optimist. Another thing I admire (and maybe am slightly jealous of) is how adaptable he is. Change does not stress him out or affect him, and this helped keep me balanced so much during fostering.”

Their fondness for each other is only topped by their devotion to their children. Justin and Shawn’s family began with two biological sons. “Knox (age 7) is extremely analytical and loves math and building things,” Justin explained. “Charlie (age 6), who is only 11 months younger, is creative and artistic and loves to draw.”

They talked a lot about what fostering is early on in a way the boys could understand best. “I worried a lot about how fostering might affect the boys emotionally,” Shawn recalled. “Would it take too much time away from them – would they be too upset to see a child leave? As it turned out, they were excited to be able to help these babies and, ultimately, I believe it was so good for them. It taught them about compassion and empathy which was so impactful for their childhoods in only positive ways.”

With their boys ages 3 and 4, when the Bigbys began working with the fostering agency, they specified that they wanted to foster children who were ages 0-2 so they would be younger than the boys. “We got our first placement in December 2019,” Shawn recalled. “She was 2 weeks old and was a preemie who had been in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for two weeks. She was only five pounds at the time which was so tiny to us! Both of our boys were big babies!” The little girl had some

Olivia and Josie are two months apart in age and have polar opposite personalities, just like their big brothers. (Photo by Jilly Bean Photography)

hard first weeks but she was a tough fighter baby.

When she was 2 months old, Justin and Shawn learned that she had a family member with whom the little girl would likely be placed. “This was very hard, but we knew she deserved to be with family if it was a safe place for her,” Shawn admitted. “It took 8 months for them to come to the conclusion that she would not be moved as her biological mom wanted her to be with us.” The Bigbys have a relationship with the biological mom and send messages and photos often. They hope to grow the relationship in the future.

The rather fantastic part of the Bigby’s story occurred during the time that the agency had planned to move the first little girl. “We got the second baby when we found out they planned to move baby #1,” Shawn explained. “They had set a date to come and take her so our agency wanted to go ahead and place a new baby in our home. She also came from the NICU at 2 weeks old.” Here’s where their story gets really interesting … they found out shortly after baby #2 came that baby #1 was not being moved after all. The girls, who are now sisters, are two months apart and, like the Bigby boys, have polar opposite personalities. They were able to adopt them on the same day in April when they were 14 and 16 months old at the time.

“We renamed them but we gave them their biological mothers’ middle names so they would carry a piece of their story with them,” Shawn shared. “And for me, no matter what their biological moms were going through, they gave life to these precious babies, and I wanted to honor that. So, the older one is Josie Katherine, and the younger one is Olivia Nicole.”

Four little ones so close in age make for loud and crazy family time! “We love having family movie nights, and our boys love reading books to the girls,” Justin noted. “The girls love dog piling on top of the boys –they are so little but they think they are bigger than the boys!” “There are

Christmas 2020 was a fun time at the Bigby home with four kiddos excited about the holidays.

Shawn holds Olivia and Justin holds Josie at their home the night Olivia came home from the hospital.

The four Bigby siblings enjoy being together and having fun.

Photo by Janna Veenstra Photography

always nursery rhyme songs playing, boys laughing, and at times babies crying, but we love our big family,” Shawn added.

The boys were elated when they found out that they’d be able to adopt the girls, and they would be their forever sisters. “Our younger son, Charlie, was particularly smitten and has literally been glued to the girls’ sides ever since we got them,” Shawn shared. “He actually asks often when we will get more babies! Not happening – four is our max!”

The Bigbys are quick to encourage others to get involved in making a difference in the life of a child whether through fostering, serving as a CASA, or donating clothing and supplies to foster families.

Shawn shares: “CASA has a slogan – every child has a chance, it’s you! This is so true. If not us, who? If not now, when? If we want to make a difference in this world we need to start with our children. Be a voice for the voiceless, and you will make an impact. I love the analogy of the starfish story: ‘One day a man was walking along the beach when he noticed a boy picking something up and gently throwing it into the ocean. Approaching the boy, he asked, “What are you doing?” The youth replied, “Throwing starfish back into the ocean. The surf is up, and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them back, they’ll die.” “Son,” the man said, “don’t you realize there are miles and miles of beach and hundreds of starfish? You can’t make a difference!”

After listening politely, the boy bent down, picked up another starfish, and threw it back into the surf. Then, smiling at the man, he said … “I made a difference for that one.’”

Halloween 2020 was a family affair for the Bixbys. Pictured are: Shawn holding Josie, Charlie, Knox and Justin holding Olivia.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

HANDSON TEXARKANA CRAFT BEER DINNER

A five course meal by Chef Jeff Loving was paired with 100% hand-crafted locally brewed beer by Priority Beer Co. during HandsOn Texarkana’s Craft Beer Dinner on May 20. Held on the grounds of The Collins Home, activities included a silent auction and live music and entertainment by Jason & Allan. All proceeds benefit the community through HandsOn Texarkana’s programs.

Nelda Timmons, Taylor Timmons and Leiah Followell

Amy and Tony Kirk

Cassie Blackburn and Jimmy Anderson

Thomas Roberts and Lorie Hewett

Tallon Reeves and John David Goins

Chesley and Dr. Lila Walker

Kelly Neal, Nancy Hoehn and Nelda Timmons

Tess Baker and James Sylar with Yulin and Jerry Brewer

Mily Rupp and Sarah Codemo

Sylvia and Mike Ingram

Stephanie Syler and Susan Whitten

George Carpenter and Selena Jefferies

Vanessa, Harry, and Dennis Schoen

photo by ALAMOND PHOTOGRAPHY

BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR KATINA

LEVINGSTON FOUNDED THE TOUGH KOOKIE FOUNDATION TO SUPPORT BREAST AND CHILDHOOD CANCER SURVIVORS

ONE TOUGH KOOKIE

by LINDSEY MCMILLAN

Katina Levingston is one tough “kookie.” That fact is illustrated in her fight to overcome breast cancer and having formed a foundation to help others. The Tough Kookie Foundation is a nonprofit organization aimed to support breast and childhood cancer survivors. As their mission states, “Together We Can bring about more community awareness and continue to assist cancer patients in Texarkana and the surrounding areas in the fight against cancer.” Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in American women of which 1 in 8 will develop the invasive variety. There are over 3 million survivors, and the fight continues. Katina is helping lead this with 27 committee members who are inviting volunteers and sponsors for a race they are hosting this October.

The first annual Tough Kookie Breast Cancer Race will be held on the Texas A&M University-Texarkana campus on Saturday, October 16. Funds raised will be used for providing local mammograms, resources, and varying levels of support for those fighting breast and childhood cancer. Katina wants to help women anyway that she can, and that means getting items and services to those who need it. The Tough Kookie Foundation has already assisted 47 local women with bra and wig donations totaling $5,000. In addition, Katina hopes to use funds to help women with simple things such as gift certificates for massages, facials, and care packages. Katina says, “I want to give back to people who are less fortunate. I hope to help men and women to feel better going through cancer.” She knows this need all too well, since she fought breast cancer herself.

Born and raised in Shreveport, Katina and her family moved to Texarkana

Katina receives chemo #7 at CHRISTUS St. Michael’s W. Temple Webber Cancer Center.

when she was in the eleventh grade. A graduate of Arkansas High School, she attended Texarkana College and earned her certification in medical coding and billing. She always dreamed of becoming a nurse but found her calling in working for various medical offices. She worked for Dr. Naples for two years as his billing coordinator, calling it one of the best jobs she ever had. She also worked at CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System for two years before beginning her own company, Levingston Medical Billing, Inc. She has been busy with this career for 26 years and currently works with 17 various medical providers across four specialties.

Katina has family living in Houston and has raised two daughters with her husband, Joe, who has been with the U.S. Postal Service for 37 years. Their oldest daughter, Nakina (known as NaNa), is a graduate of Miles College in Birmingham, Alabama, and is beginning her master’s degree in Special Education at Alabama A&M University. Younger daughter, Ashanti, just completed her freshman year at the University of Central Arkansas. Katina also has two stepsons, Joe Levingston III and Jaron Levingston.

Katina discovered a lump in her breast and was diagnosed with cancer in January of 2016. She always got regular mammograms and was otherwise healthy. Her gynecologist arranged for a biopsy to be done and was told her cancer was Stage 1. A lumpectomy was performed, and after exploring her treatment options, Katina decided to go to MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston for chemotherapy and radiation. She recalls receiving her cancer diagnosis on her daughter NaNa’s birthday (January 13), and she began her chemotherapy on her wedding anniversary (March 24). Her husband took her every week for treatments which spanned a period of 16 months. They would travel there each Friday, and she would be back at work on Monday. Throughout her entire treatment, she only missed one day of work.

After chemotherapy, Katina began radiation therapy which was daily for six weeks. She credits Drs. Garber and Murry at MD Anderson with

their stellar care and the overwhelming support she received both here at home and in Houston. She met and keeps in touch with two other women who were undergoing treatment alongside her. A private person, Katina was inundated with friends offering prayers, hugs, and other support. She applauds those women she calls her “Old Lady Gang,” comprised of close friends Gail Cobb and Linda Hailey saying they were her greatest prayer warriors. Katina recalls beginning to lose her hair on Mother’s Day, and that was the most devastating thing about her illness. She says she was fortunate to have milder chemotherapy side effects, experiencing some nausea, lethargy, and neuropathy in her extremities. This didn’t keep her down though, as she continued to raise her daughters and maintain her business. She praises her husband and children who she calls the “backbone of her life.” Katina was declared to be cancer free at the end of 2017 and gets a checkup every three months.

Katina’s experience overall undoubtedly changed her perspective on many things so she decided to form a foundation to help strengthen others’ faith and determination with love, hugs, and positivity. She explains, “After receiving my breast cancer diagnosis and treatment plan, I decided to document my journey by taking as many pictures as I could of everything that happened along the way. While at MD Anderson, I saw many people struggling, both emotionally and physically. The joy of trying to help others by putting smiles on their faces blessed me immensely.” Katina had been inspired by the Susan G. Komen Foundation and their many years of work here in the community. Katina had been involved with the Race by volunteering and fund-raising. Her team was comprised of family and friends and often was recognized as one of the top teams to raise money. Beginning the Tough Kookie Foundation and being a new breast cancer survivor, she had the energy and drive to try to replicate the Komen Race since the Texarkana affiliate recently departed. She wanted to provide a

Team Katina attended the 2017 Komen Texarkana Race for the Cure® with her Tough Kookie team.

race that not only raised funds for breast cancer but childhood cancers as well. COVID restrictions naturally set back their efforts for a year but now the committee is determined to spread the word and advertise the race and other events in the months ahead.

Katina has already been an active part of the Texarkana community for years, as a member of the Junior League of Texarkana where she worked on the Nominating & Placement Committee and was the 2019 recipient of the Marguerite Whitmarsh Holman award. She also helped form Christians in Action (CIA) at her church, St. Paul Missionary Baptist. This was begun in 2012 and assists teenagers to serve in various areas of the community. Katina strives to be pro-active in her service to others and inspires others to do the same. She credits her faith with all of the good that has come out of her experience and wants to share that with others. “God brought me to cancer and definitely brought me through cancer,” she shares. “My belief and trust in God, along with having a positive attitude was the key in my fight against cancer. I knew that He would use my journey as part of a bigger plan for my life.”

The Tough Kookie Foundation has a Facebook page and website for those interested in volunteering for the race. There are also varying levels of sponsorship available. The committee has named October 10 to be Pink Out Sunday, and more information will be distributed via social media and radio across the community. The race itself is a 5K run/walk where participants have the choice of being timed or not. Pets are welcome at the race, and teams are currently being formed. Other events surrounding the race are being planned, and Katina encourages people across the ArkLaTex to get involved. Dr. Cheryl Saul-Sehy is serving as the race organizer and is very excited about what is being planned: “It is a pleasure to work with Katina. She has boundless energy and an unwavering dedication to help the

Katina with her daughters, Ashanti and Nakina, on May 8, the day before her hair fell out, at Louisiana Downs.

In 2016, Katina participated in the Komen Texarkana Race for the Cure®. Her shirt features Dr. Seuss and says, “I do not like cancer anywhere. I do not like cancer here or there!”

Linda Hailey, Katina, and Gail Cobb during a Pleasant Grove Lady Hawks basketball tournament in December 2016. Katina received her fourth chemotherapy the day before this photo was taken.

breast and childhood cancer patients in Bowie and Miller Counties.”

The Tough Kookie Foundation already has an ongoing event in place called Walkers and Talkers. This is an open group of people who meet each Saturday at Central Mall (at the JCPenney entrance) at 7 a.m. for about an hour of conversation and exercise. Katina is excited to see the growth for the race and other activities heighten in the months to come. A dog show is also in the planning stages to be held at Spring Lake Park. As if Katina isn’t busy enough, in her spare time she enjoys taking cruises and traveling to visit her kids. Desperate to help those in need and fighting breast and childhood cancers, Katina is eager to enlist volunteers and sponsors across Texarkana and surrounding areas. For more information, visit: www.toughkookie.org or email: toughkookietxk@gmail.com.

Joe and Katina enjoying beach time in Florida this past April.

photo by ALAMOND PHOTOGRAPHY

Retired, But Not Yet Tired

JUDGE JAMES CARLOW LEFT A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP, SERVICE, AND HARD WORK AS THE FORMER BOWIE COUNTY JUDGE

by LISA PORTERFIELD THOMPSON

Judge James Carlow will always be “the judge” to those who know him. Even though he has been relieved of his duty for almost two years now, that does not mean he’s out of the public light just yet. Our readers might recall that he announced his retirement nine months into a four-year term back in 2019, and a lot has happened in our corner of the world since then—COVID, a snow storm, more rain than we care to measure. Then, just two months ago, Judge James Carlow was announced as the 2020 recipient of the prestigious C.E. Palmer Award, given by the Texarkana USA Chamber of Commerce. Carlow joined the ranks of previous honorees such as Wilbur Smith, J.K. Wadley, a myriad of those named Morriss, Truman Arnold, Dan Haskins, and many more.

This recognition, delayed a year due to COVID-19 restrictions, piqued our interest here at FSLM, and prompted us to follow up with Judge Carlow and wife, Nancy, a year or so into their “retirement.” We wanted to know what they had been up to since we last wrote about them in 2016.

In our original article, we highlighted the upbringing of Carlow, the early experience he gained in western Bowie County with a paper route, and purchasing a tractor at age 13. We told you about his adventures growing a business in our community from the ground up, and eventually passing on several of the family businesses to his two sons, Brad and Blake.

Judge Carlow first ran for county judge in 1986, following up on an interest in lobbying and political action spurred from his dairy business and lobbying activities in D.C. on behalf of dairy farmers. This career in public service would focus on economic development, job retention, mental health issues, financial security, transportation, county asset management, and much, much more.

Judge Carlow described the role of county judge as a junk drawer. “If it won’t fit anywhere else, then it gets thrown to the county judge to take care of,” he said, recalling a class he’d taken as a new county judge back in the ’80s. These days, Carlow is doing less of the junk drawer clean out, and more of the back pasture kind, but none-the-less, he’s working hard and still serving his county.

Of course, retirement has not meant the slow down that some might expect for the Carlows. Rather, the obligations have changed from public service to personal endeavors, and from expectations of the taxpayers to volunteering to benefit the community. Before retiring, Judge Carlow served on 16 boards and commissions both locally and statewide. Today, he has a few less, but no less important appointments and jobs to tend to.

Since retiring, Judge Carlow is now able to devote more time to his cattle and ranching. “I’ve been working with my other businesses, and looking after my cows,” he said. “There’s plenty to do here. For the next few years, or however long I’m able, I hope to keep working cows, ranching, and cutting hay.”

The family’s tractor business, and title companies are also still demanding the Carlows’ attention, though now managed by their sons. In fact, Judge Carlow’s wife, Nancy is still working, albeit from home. “We’re up to 13 tractor dealerships now, and several title company offices,” Carlow said. “If I could just get my wife to retire, we might be able to really enjoy it.”

The Carlows have not found much time to relax just yet, but they do have a plan in place when the time comes. “We have a place up in Arkansas that we love,” Nancy, said. “Unfortunately, we have not gotten up there as much as we need to or want to, but when we go, we do have so much fun. We are just extremely busy, always. Our whole family is going in a hundred different directions. Last weekend, we got together for a nice Sunday brunch at Verona to celebrate all the January-June birthdays. That’s how difficult it is to get everyone together. In August, we’ll try to celebrate the rest. I so enjoyed having everyone together, but with all the grandkids and greats being so involved, and our boys having a lot of responsibilities, and their wives being busy, it’s just so hard.”

James and Nancy have two sons: Brad and his wife, Ashley, have four kids (Taylor, Shelby, Triston and Briley) and Blake, has two children (Malori and Mason) with wife, Melinda.

There is no doubt the residents of Bowie County have been, and continue to be, the benefactors of Judge Carlow and his family’s busyness. After a nearly 30year career in public service to the county, he is still serving on boards like the I-69 Alliance, Maud Methodist Church Board, and the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Although there are still obligations for the Carlows, they’ve both found themselves enjoying the slow down in unexpected ways. “We’ve both enjoyed,

Judge Carlow and Nancy on September 30, 2019, his last day working before retirement.

surprisingly, being home more,” Nancy said. “I really enjoy having him here. I am not used to being home either, but when COVID hit, my boys sent me home to work from here, and so I got a printer, and a desk, and I work at home. He is in and out all the time, checking on things and getting everything done here and, of course, doing for other people. It’s been really nice.”

Leaving the county, although it was not easy for Judge Carlow, was made better when Judge Carlow learned who his replacement would be. He was replaced by Judge Bobby Howell, a competent and capable leader in his own right.

Carlow still stays informed about the day-to-day happenings at the county, and in the community as a whole. “From everything I can tell, Bobby’s doing a good job,” he said. “There’s a lot to it, and I think he’s doing fine.”

The county has survived several natural and man-made disasters since Carlow’s retirement. When asked if he felt like he dodged a bullet by retiring before all the disaster declarations, Carlow indicated something else. “No,” he said. “I feel like I missed out. I miss not being involved in all that, and although I’m so glad COVID is going away, and we can all move on, I wish I was right in the middle of it all. When I served during the Red River floods, twice, it was amazing to see how people came together and worked collectively during a disaster. It’s awesome. I’m enjoying retirement though, and it’s been a good thing.”

Nancy confirms what we all suspected. Judge Carlow’s exit strategy at the county had everything to do with accomplishing the goals he’d set out, and he did just that. “Before he retired in September of 2019, he made sure he had everything in order,” she said. “That was his goal when he went back in and found the county was in disarray. Once that was done, and he’d gotten everything straight, he had not planned to run again, but his supporters were relentless. Still, he has people every day telling him how much he’s missed, and that says a lot about the kind of leader he is and was.”

Indeed, it does. Judge James Carlow left a legacy of leadership and service and hard work as the former Bowie County Judge, but his service is far from over, even in retirement.

January 2, 1987,

was Judge Carlow’s first day of work in the Bowie County Courthouse so he and Nancy took a moment to snap a photo to document this special day.

The Carlows were married on September 11, 1965, at the Maud United Methodist Church. They still attend church there now, where many generations of the Judge’s mother’s family have attended.

Judge Carlow and his wife, Nancy, while on a Kubota-sponsored trip to Rome, Italy, in 2013.

Ron Collins and Bill Cork presented Judge Carlow with a replica of the street sign that was installed when the main drive at Red River Army Depot was renamed to James Carlow Drive.

Touring the farms lands was a highlight during the Carlows’ trip to Mexico in 2008.

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT

TISD NAMES ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY TEACHERS OF THE YEAR

Texarkana Independent School District recently named Tara Droske as Elementary Teacher of the Year and Robin Hilton as Secondary Teacher of the Year. Both have moved forward for consideration as Region VIII Teacher of the Year. Tara, who has 12 years in education, serves as a Kindergarten Teacher at Morriss Elementary School. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Master of Science in Curriculum & Instruction from Texas A&M University-Texarkana. She carries certifications in Generalist EC-4, English as a Second Language and as a Master Math Teacher. She completed the TISD Leadership Academy program and has served as a Teacher Mentor, Academic Team Lead for Campus Lighthouse Team, Teacher Retention Committee and Campus Quality Improvement Committee for Morriss Elementary.

Tara believes that a strong teacher is constantly learning, changing, growing, collaborating, engaging their students, building relationships and growing leaders. She is a lifelong learner and is always willing to share her knowledge and experience with others.

Robin Hilton, TISD Secondary Teacher of the Year, is an 8th Grade Social Studies Teacher at Texas Middle School who has been in the field of education for 29 years. She holds a Bachelor of Science in History from Baylor University, a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an English emphasis from Henderson State University and a Master of Science in Curriculum & Instruction from Texas A&M University-Texarkana. Robin holds certifications in Arkansas for Middle School English, Middle School Social Studies and Elementary Teacher Grades 1-6. In Texas, her certifications include Social Studies Grades 1-8, Elementary Self-Contained Grades 1-8 and Social Studies Grades 8-12.

Robin has been a Mentor Teacher for TISD and Texas Middle School (TMS), served on the Campus Quality Improvement Committee for TMS and on the District Quality Improvement Committee for TISD. She is a Grade Level Team Leader for TMS and a Student Teacher Mentor for Texas A&M University-Texarkana. Robin has dedicated her life to teaching and fostering the love of lifelong learning in her students. Robin’s teaching style is to teach the child, not the subject, in an effort to make classroom learning fun and personal.

Campus Teachers of the Year are: Dunbar Early Education Center – Tamara Coker; Highland Park Elementary School – Lakien Lawson; Nash Elementary School – Rachel Sparks; Spring Lake Park Elementary School – Tonja Upchurch; Theron Jones Early Literacy Center – Kelly Hile; Waggoner Creek Elementary School – Jami Blain; Wake Village Elementary School – Susanna LeJeune; Westlawn Elementary School – Jessica Musgraves; Texas High School – Emily Szymanski; Alternative Education – Tracy Forte representing Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) and Therapeutic Intervention Learning Center (TILC)

Tara Droske

Robin Hilton

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DEBUTANTE COTILLION CLUB OF TEXARKANA

ANNOUNCEMENT TEA

On Thursday, June 10, the Debutante Cotillion Club of Texarkana held its annual Announcement Tea at Texarkana Country Club to honor the debutantes of 2021. This year’s debutantes are Hollan Borowitz, Chloe Carpenter, Georgia Cobb, Cara Anne Court, Kathryn Davis, Meredith Green, Rachel Hemphill, Anna Grace Jones, Caroline Joyce, Olivia Lower, Gracie Ann McDougal, Phoebe Robertson, Olivia Rochelle, Gracyn Upton and Jenna Williamson. Debutante Cotillion Club sponsor is Blaire Barlow.

Lori Rochelle and Olivia Rochelle

Monica Robertson and Phoebe Robertson Kristi Cobb and Georgia Cobb Kimberly Davis and Kathryn Davis

(bottom row) Gracie McDougal, Cara Court, Jenna Williamson and Gracyn Upton; (middle row) Kathryn Davis, Caroline Joyce, Olivia Rochelle, Chloe Carpenter and Meredith Green; (top row) Phoebe Robertson, Hollan Borowitz, Anna Grace Jones, Olivia Lower, Georgia Cobb and Rachel Hemphill

Gracyn Upton and Lacey McCulloch

Julie Borowitz and Hollan Borowitz

Caroline Joyce and Susannah Joyce

Lisa Williamson Tullis and Jenna Williamson

Phyllis McDougal and Gracie McDougal

Dr. Kristin Lower and Olivia Lower

Rachel Hemphill and Mishal Hemphill

Megan Menefee, Taylor Debardeleben and Lacey McCulloch

Brelinda Barlow and Blaire Barlow

Cindy Jones and Anna Grace Jones

Stephanie Carpenter and Chloe Carpenter

Julie Borowitz, Becky Rounds and Janie Rounds

Terri Court and Cara Court

Jessica Snow, Summer Reinsch and Lisa Williamson Tullis

Meredith Green and Tina Green

Alex Cope, Julie Sherman and Kaitlyn Fortenberry Harlo Boyd and Cortney Boyd

Carter Marie Stone and Brittanie Stone

photo by ALAMOND PHOTOGRAPHY

A Heart FOR SERVING OTHERS

by JADE FITCH

Julie’s is a well-known eatery in the Texarkana community. And this year, Julie’s is celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Julie officially opened her “sandwich shop” with a soft opening, where she served around 25 customers on her first day. “Gerald Thomas, Interior Resources, was my first customer,” she said. As the years went by, business began to pick up, and “word of mouth that first couple of years really got us going.” Twenty-five years later, Julie’s serves around 300 customers each day.

In the late ’80s, Julie recalls telling a good friend, “What I really want to do is open a deli.” Fast forward a few years, and on June 1, 1996, Julie’s Deli had its opening day. From an incredibly young age, Julie has

JULIE FURLOW, OWNER OF JULIE’S, CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF OWNING A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS AND GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

Julie’s Deli was recognized by Four States Living Magazine as one of the top five “Businesses That Provided Excellent Customer Service During The 2020 Pandemic” in the magazine’s 2021 Best of Texarkana Readers’ Choice Awards. Team members pictured are: Susan Eager, business office manager; Lauren Lathrop, bakery manager; Katherine Stone, market manager; Jennifer Tanner, executive chef, events manager; Julie Furlow, owner; Susan Mervish, personal shopper; Amanda Landrum, customer service staff; and Jenny McNabb, kitchen manager.

been serving customers. Her grandparents owned Shackelford’s Grocery in Ogden, and when she was a child, she loved to work and play in their store. “My grandmother would let me stand in a chair and run the cash register; she taught me all about customer service.”

When Julie’s Deli first opened in 1996, it began as a small “sandwich shop” that was only open during lunch. “My grandmother made all of my desserts,” Julie acknowledged. Three years later, “I made my first expansion by adding a small, gourmet food market where I sold Boar’s Head brand meats, casseroles, and gift baskets.” Julie’s Deli, then became Julie’s Deli & Market. Then in 2006, Julie’s Deli & Market had a complete remodel and opened with a full kitchen with a grill and fryer. To the market, they added a take home meals case, another casserole case, and a bakery display for cakes. At this time, they also chose to rebrand to Julie’s.

Not long after, Julie hired a chef. She said, “I did one of the best things I’ve ever done and hired the most talented chef in town, Jennifer Tanner, as Executive Chef and Catering Manager. We added a private room a few years ago, and now we are four businesses under one roof: a restaurant, bakery, gourmet food market, and catering company.”

This year, Julie is looking forward to expanding Julie’s catering service. “We only catered a couple of events in 2020, so we are super excited about our wedding and holiday catering this year,” she explained. Of course, the year 2020, was challenging because of the pandemic; however, Julie and her staff “adapted, overcame, monitored, and adjusted” and “just made it work.” She said her staff came up with some great ideas on how to keep everyone safe and provide a great customer service experience. “We started curbside pickup, and now it’s our drive-thru, and it’s here to stay.” Despite the hardships created from the pandemic, Julie’s was able to come together and work as a team to overcome those challenges and implement updates that made the

The Julie’s Deli team – (front row) Julie Furlow, Penny Mulchey-Krantz and Brandee Page; (back row) Jennifer Tanner, Brandon Mosley, Kara High, Brittany Weeks, Susan Mervish, and Daniel Goza

– catering a wedding at Cabe Hall in 2012.

June 1, 1996, was the first day of business for Julie’s Deli. Pictured with Julie (second from left) are her parents, Sandra and Bob Furlow, and her sister, Sherry Grimes.

business even better.

Julie credits her amazing staff for helping her achieve successful business each day. Executive Chef Jennifer Tanner has been part of the Julie’s team since 2007, and “has really taken our catering to award-winning status.”

“She is super creative, a talented chef, and so much fun to work with,” Julie admitted. Jennifer’s sister, Abby, is the lead cake decorator. “It runs in their family because she is hands-down the most talented cake decorator around.” Kat Stone is the market manager. She has been part of the team for 12 years, and Julie explained that “Kat is such a kind and patient person; she is so creative and has really grown our market.” Jenny McNabb is the kitchen manager. “She had worked as a chef for us until a couple of years ago and was promoted to kitchen manager; it’s a big job. She is a real team player that keeps us on track.” Lauren Keune is Julie’s recentlyhired bakery manager. “Her experience with pastry with the Four Seasons Dallas has been wonderful; she is ultra-organized and keeps things running smoothly,” Julie said.

When you walk into Julie’s you might have a difficult time deciding what to order because everything looks delicious, but there are a couple of “bestsellers” that Julie says are made daily. Chicken salad is made six days a week. That’s a total of “about four tons a year.” That’s a lot of chicken salad! Their number one selling casserole is chicken spaghetti. And, if you’re craving something

sweet, Julie’s is home to the original White Chocolate Strawberry Cake! “It’s our bestselling dessert,” Julie says, “and you can get it as a cupcake, too.”

From opening in 1996, to today, Julie’s has changed a lot over 25 years, yet one thing has remained the same: the heart of the business. Julie has a heart for serving others. She tries to live each day with a servant’s heart. Her favorite scripture is Luke 12:48 which states, “To whom much is given, much will be required.” “I have been blessed with a great business, wonderful family and friends,” she said, “and I want to share my blessings.”

Julie loves serving people. “I am so grateful to my staff and customers for their loyal support. Because of their support, we have been able to give back to the community by helping several nonprofit organizations, including the Harvest Regional Food Bank where I serve on the board and share their mission of alleviating hunger in our area.”

Prior to owning her own restaurant, Julie was a teacher. She taught middle school and some high school for 11½ years. She also coached basketball and track and field. She taught in Texarkana, Queen City, the Houston area, Baton Rouge, and Springdale, before returning to the Texarkana area where she chose to open her restaurant. She has always said, “If you can teach, you can do anything,” and she has proven this to be true by owning a successful business for 25 years, giving back to her community, and serving others.

Andi Darby of Kicker 102.5 presents a plaque to Julie naming her an “Unsung Hero” for going above and beyond during the 2020 pandemic.

Kat Stone, Julie, and Colyn Grimes have some Christmas fun while working at the deli.

Camille Coker-Wrinkle presents an award to Julie as Harvest Regional Food Bank’s 2019 Volunteer of the Year.

Kim Mulchey-Krantz, Joe Bruick, and Julie during a Chamber After Hours event hosted by Julie’s Deli in 2011.

Aaron Ferrell and Julie worked the Julie’s Deli booth during Harvest Regional Food Bank’s 2012 Taste of Texarkana.

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CLAY’S GOLF AND GUITARS 2021

The Clay Eichler Memorial Fund hosted its seventh annual Clay’s Golf and Guitars on May 22 with a golf scramble taking place at Northridge Country Club. Thirty-four teams participated in the golf tournament. Out of 499 tickets sold, Jim Day won the trip giveaway to either Pinehurst Resort, Maui, Key West or Calgary/Lake Louise. During the evening, approximately 400 people were entertained outside by ESCAPE, A Journey Tribute Band out of Los Angeles, California. With overwhelming community support, $170,000 was donated to Haven Homes.

Stephanie Maddox and Doris Atkins

Chad Shelton, Chad Coleman, Mike Smith and Trey Patterson

Hunter Goodman, Matthew Maddox, Cole Riddell and Andrew McElhany Detra and Robbie McCarver

Sara Atkins, Chance Atkins, Jake Boyd and Will Mitchell Bubba Ashby, Tom Wacha, Logan Ashby and Joey Stockton

Trish and Tim Reed Dr. Paul and Lynn Whitt

Michael Griffin, Derick Giles, Jerry Rochelle and Bruce Hornbuckle

Colby Holmes, Marshall Moore, Marshall E. Moore and Taylor Douglas

Dr. Mike Hillis, Mike Murrah, Danny Gray and Larry Davis

Haley Roeser and Ann Ainsley

Jonathan Web, Meredith Witten, Brandan Gray and Ryan Briggs Tye Shelton, Todd Tye, Jackson Tye and William Tye

Manuel Western, Brittney Frost, Linda Reed, Claudia Soto, Lauren Boyd and Kasey Lewis

Sam Wacha, Dr. Mary Martin, Tom Simmons and Dr. Michael Martin

Gail and Dr. Ed Eichler with Barbara Glick and Debbie Alkire

Sam and Sherri Clem with Ray and Mel Walsh

Laurie Booker, Lucy Sarrett, Leanne Booker and Bonnie Lamb

Susan and Gary Stading

Karen and Mark Mittelman Peter Morton and Sean Jenkins

Brandy and Billy Eldridge

Elaine and Ted Kelton

Judge Craig and Lisa Henry

Vee and Ron Collins

Kay and Gary Jordan with Christi and Frankie Shedlock

Larry and Joanne Bunn

Cathy and Judge John Tidwell

Pam Frady, Debbie Lively, Denice Johnson and Kay Trapp

Greg and Carol Huffman

Sam Gatzerta, Eric Cain and Harrison Wright

Ruby and Chuck Firmin

Simeon Klopper and Claire Ashby

Donnie and Kathy Powers, Dr. Jim and Jennifer Shively, Mignon and Van Alexander

Mary Catherine and Dr. Milborn Haynes

Mike and Elaine Fielding

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LEADERSHIP TEXARKANA AFTER HOURS SOCIAL

Leadership Texarkana held its After Hours Social on June 10 at Twisted Fork. Those interested in applying for the Leadership Texarkana class of 2021-2022 had the opportunity to visit with LT graduates and leaders to learn more about the LT class experience.

Dr. Mary Ellen Young, Trish Reed, Kasey Lewis and Lauren Boyd

Lauren Pilgreen and Carla Dupree

Jason Ross, Caleb Mudford and Stacye Magness

Zeus Espinoza and Sanel Thomas

Keith Beason and Jason Ross

Stephanie Maddox and Jaimie Alexander

Denis Washington and Dr. Brian Matthews

Stephanie Maddox, Eric Cain and DC Gomez

Dr. Doug Brubaker and Ruth Ellen Whitt

Toney Favors and Robbin Bass

Claudia Soto and Emily Curry

Kristie Dempsey and Laura Pilgreen

Kasey Coggin and Patti O’Bannon

WHILE VISITING FAMILY IN ISRAEL, BETTY FEIR AND MIKE RICHARDSON FOUND THEMSELVES SEEKING REFUGE IN BOMB SHELTERS WHILE SIRENS WERE BLARING AND MISSILES WERE INTERCEPTING ROCKETS

photo by ALAMOND PHOTOGRAPHY

An Abroad Adventure

by JENNIFER JORDAN

For Betty Feir and Mike Richardson, a trip to Israel is commonplace. They regularly visit their daughter, Tamar Varon and her family a few times a year in Moshav Matityahu, a West Bank settlement between Tel-Aviv and Jerusalem. Tamar has lived in Israel for three decades, having first experienced the country during her junior year of college and deciding that she wanted to move there. She and her husband, an Orthodox rabbi, have 13 children and 8 grandchildren, with one on the way.

With Israel closed to travel due to the COVID pandemic, Betty and Mike had not seen their family since September 2019. When the country reopened its borders to international travelers in May with some restrictions, Betty and Mike jumped at the opportunity to book a flight. As first-degree relatives of Israel citizens, they were able to enter the country with a negative PCR test and then took serology tests in Israel so that they would not have to quarantine.

When Betty and Mike arrived in Israel on May 5, they were eager to see their family, and had no idea that they would get to experience bomb shelters. There had been tension between Israel and Hamas since mid-April, but as of the trip, no violence had erupted yet.

On May 11, Hamas began launching rockets from the Gaza Strip into Israel, and Betty and Mike found themselves in a bomb shelter. “Maintaining a bomb shelter is a requirement; it is part of the building code,” Mike explains. Tamar and her family have been used to going into bomb shelters for quite some time. It’s a part of everyday life.

“On May 11, we were having dinner with our oldest grandson and his wife at a restaurant when we noticed a lot of people coming through, past our table,” Mike relates. “Then we heard

The Iron Dome missile battery about a mile from Betty and Mike’s granddaughter’s apartment in Modi’in, Israel. This is the location where Mike witnessed two missiles intercepting rockets from Gaza.

sirens. These people had been outside, and the sirens were warning everyone to seek shelter from the rockets. We ran through the kitchen to the shelter. It was a large space. There were a lot of people in there, but we weren’t squeezed like sardines. As we waited inside the shelter for about 10-15 minutes, we could hear the sirens. A little girl was upset, and Betty, who is a psychologist, comforted her. Afterward, we resumed dinner. The restaurant staff brought all of the guests little glasses of liquor.” As Mike explains, “Everything goes back to normal afterward because people are used to it; they just live with these disruptions.”

This is the way of life in Israel. National military service is required of all Israeli citizens over the age of 18, although there are religious and health exemptions. Betty and Mike have two grandsons who have served in the Israeli military. “I think that our grandsons will be in the military reserves until age 55,” Mike says. One of the grandsons showed Mike and Betty an iron dome missile battery that was about a mile from their apartment. It turns out that when Betty visited a medical clinic for respiratory congestion during their visit, the doctor who treated her works at the clinic two days per week and works at the missile battery three days per week. “He told us that he loads the missiles,” Mike comments.

There are 10 missile batteries scattered throughout Israel for the purpose of detecting and intercepting rockets. These batteries are built with technology that can determine the precise location where a rocket will land. “The night that we were at the restaurant, you could hear where the missiles were intercepting the rockets,” Mike states. “However, the military won’t waste missiles on rockets headed to open, unpopulated areas,” Mike states, “as it costs $40,000 to launch just one missile.”

May 11 was not the only night during Betty and Mike’s visit during which Hamas launched rockets. On May 12, Mike was irked that sirens blared at 1:30 a.m., disturbing his sleep. They were staying at their granddaughter’s apartment in the city of Modi’in, and sleepily went into the bomb shelter, which doubles as their great-granddaughter’s bedroom. “Each apartment has a bomb shelter, and often, it also serves as a bedroom,” Mike states. On May 13, the sirens sounded at 3:30 a.m., and everyone knew the routine. “The next night, I was walking the family dog, Muffin, at 10:15 p.m. when the sirens began. Betty called me, but I couldn’t hear her due to the sirens. I wasn’t scared.” A neighbor took a video of Israeli missiles intercepting the rockets; they look like giant stars streaming in the night sky.

Betty and Mike enjoyed the rest of their visit, but also needed to get home. Their trip was initially scheduled for two weeks, with a departure date of May 18. However, American Airlines rescheduled their flight for May 20, and then again for May 23, as the airline had cancelled all flights out of Tel-Aviv due to the violence. Betty and Mike had responsibilities in Texarkana, so they were able to move airlines and book a flight to Los Angeles on El-Al Airlines, which then enabled them to arrive at DFW on May 20.

Betty and Mike had a wonderful time with their grandchildren, and they look forward to returning to Israel later in the year to celebrate their youngest grandson’s bar mitzvah. Betty and Mike maintain a positive perspective about their visits to Israel. The conflict did not stop them from enjoying their family and having dinners out. As Mike avers, “It wasn’t scary. It was interesting. You just deal with it. It’s part of life. The rockets made it an adventure.”

While in northern Israel, Betty and Mike visited a restaurant located next to a winery before a wine tasting.

Mike, Betty, and their crew enjoying a family outing at a restaurant in Israel. Mike admits, “No rockets are going to keep us from having fun!”

Betty and Mike always enjoy spending time with their eight great-grandchildren.

Dani, Betty and Mike’s youngest grandson, whose bar mitzvah they will be attending in Israel later this year.

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DRIVE OUT HUNGER GOLF TOURNAMENT

Harvest Regional Food Bank held its inaugural Drive Out Hunger Golf Tournament on May 24 at Northridge Country Club. Entertainment by Jake Gathright was enjoyed during the evening’s awards ceremony. All proceeds from the tournament will provide critical support for Harvest’s programs and operations. This event is especially vital for the food bank to fill the gap left by the second year of cancellations of its signature events, including Wine & Jazz and Taste of Texarkana, in the face of the pandemic. Presenting sponsors of the tournament were Dr. Ly and Aaron Gaylor. Winners were: first place – Steve Harrelson Law Firm: Cody Cunningham, Jeff Ritter, Jerry Littleton and Roger Rico; second place – State Bank: Brad Davis, Conner Ribble, Bruce Hornbuckle and Jerry Rochelle; and third place – Julie’s Deli: Ty Cobb, Tyler Shephard, Chuck Cross and Austin Cross.

Cole Grimes, Glenn Grimes, Wes Grimes and Kyle McAllister Don Morriss, Danny Gray, Derick Giles and William Morriss

Freddie Johns, Debbie Sheppard, Jo Maxey and Nan Fry

Hershel Flanagan, Larry Walls, David Hickerson and Sonny Brainerd

Jon Thornton, Jimmy Anderson, Jared Johnson and Jon Raymond

Brad Davis, Ron Copeland, Corey Jerry and Thomas Parker

Jerry Rochelle, Lauree Romero and Clayton Wisdom

Drew Mims, Rusty Burke, Clayton Wisdom and Josh Kurtz

Bart Vance, Jordan Conant, Russell Sparks and Mark Luckett Ben Davis, Ty Cobb, Tyler Sheppard and Chuck Cross

Brad Davis, Jerry Rochelle, Bruce Hornbuckle and Conner Ribble

Braxton Langdon, Jason Williams, Jason Ross and Jon Sheppard

Felicia Horn, Camille Wrinkle, Jennifer Teeters and Erickah Mathis

Cody Peek, Mark James, Steven Harvey and Bobby Cox

Jimmy Anderson, Camille Wrinkle, Roger Rico, Felicia Horn, Cody Cunningham, Jeff Ritter and Jerry Littleton

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DOWNTOWN LIVE! 2021

Main Street Texarkana, along with Joseph Raymond Fine Art presented Downtown Live! on May 21 in Downtown Texarkana. The event featured over 15 artists performing live, including Joseph Raymond, Judy Jones, Dr. Paul Whitt, Joel Wright, Chris Thomas, Georgia Hubnik, Debbie Nicholas, Linda Larey, Judy Wright Walter, David Price, Christopher Bachers, Jenny Stevens, Richard Cramer, Melissa Mitchell, Mary Beck, Tom Morrissey, and Irma Zuniga. Food, drinks, and desserts were provided by downtown restaurants.

Tom Morrissey, Nancy Stropeni, Melodie Sorsby Clemmons and Susan Sorsby Childress

Debbie Nicholas and Judy Wright Walter

Chris Thomas and Linda Larey

Georgia Hubnik and Kathy Hudson

Jon Beck, Diana Morriss and Ina McDowell

April McDowell and Jenny Stevens

Charlotte Hueter and Johnni Hueter

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TEXARKANA MUSEUMS SYSTEM TRIVIA EVENT

The Texarkana Museums System held a “Pop to the Culture” Trivia Event on June 19 on the lawn of the Ace of Clubs House. The event was held in honor of TMS’s 50th anniversary and covered random events that happened during the 1970s.

Joann Pappas and Robbie Thomas

Tonia Chambers and Aaron Brand

Lisa and Ralph Waits

Susan Morehead and Stephanie Jackson

Bre VonBuxom-Schrader and David Peavy

Kristina Ellis and Velvet Cool

IN BOTH HIS MILITARY AND MEDICAL CAREERS, SKIP HADAWAY HAS HELPED MAKE MANY PEOPLES’ LIVES BETTER

photo by ALAMOND PHOTOGRAPHY

Where He Wants To Be EXACTLY

by AMBER E. WILLMAN

To be an American soldier, one has to be a truly selfless human. It takes someone who believes that the United States, as a country, and the people who call her home are worth sacrifice even unto death. Individuals who take on the role of soldier set out on a hero’s quest. Everyone is familiar with the hero’s quest; it surfaces in all forms of media. It can be found in literature, television, film, and music. Skip Hadaway is a selfless soldier for whom people can root. His medical career is fueled by a motivation to serve people, and patriotism is the greater ideal for which he quests. For him, life imitates art.

Several years ago, Skip was given a skydiving trip as a gift. It was something he never got to do while in the Army, and it was on his bucket list. He compares that first jump to a first date. It was exciting but he wasn’t sure if he liked it. He completed two more jumps and decided to get certified. Unfortunately, during his sixth solo jump, he bruised the meniscus in both knees on landing. The injury ended his skydiving career, but not the lessons he learned from it.

During the free fall, Skips says that you are thinking of everything you have to do to stay stable. You have to make sure no one is near you. You’re watching your altitude and hoping your parachute opens when you deploy it. Given his education and professional experience, this seems to be a metaphor for Skip’s life.

Act I. The young hero embarks on a 24-year journey with the Arkansas Army National Guard.

For the first 19 years, Skip was an infantryman or the literal

boots on the ground. He achieved rank of Captain before resigning his commission in 1999. However, Skip returned to active service in 2003, but he did not want to return as an officer. Instead, he flew helicopters for five years and retired in 2007 as Sergeant First Class.

Skip explains that he is most proud of carrying on a family tradition. “Both of my grandfathers and an uncle served in World War II. My father and three uncles served during Vietnam, and I just continued that tradition.”

While serving his country, Skip did two training deployments. The first in 1989 to North Umberland, England. He trained with a territorial army as part of a United States-United Kingdom exchange program. Then in 1990, Skip traveled to Honduras where he trained with the 11th Honduran Infantry Battalion. From 2003 to 2005, he served the 1st Battalion 153rd Infantry which was part of the 39th Brigade Combat Team of Arkansas Army National Guard. They were attached to the 3rd Brigade of 1st Cavalry Division out of Fort Hood. During his 24-year career, Skip was stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia, Fort Campbell, Kentucky, Fort Rucker, Alabama, and Fort Hood, Texas.

Act II. The hero, a seasoned veteran, chooses health care.

In 1996, while still serving in the Guard, Skip graduated from Texarkana College with an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing. He worked for Wadley Regional Medical Center in the Surgical and Neurosurgical ICUs. Skip left the hospital and went to work for Texarkana Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgical Associates as a surgical and clinical assistant. While employed there, Skip graduated from Texas A&M University-Texarkana with a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences with a concentration in Administrative Leadership.

Skip and Ethan enjoy a relaxing Carnival cruise during the summer of 2019.

During December 2019, Maci and Skip attended the PGHS Championship Game at AT&T Stadium.

Eric, Ethan and Skip sunning by the pool last summer.

Andrew Lourens and Skip spent New Year 2020 playing games with the family.

In 2012, Skip moved to Heart and Lung Specialists of Arkansas where he worked as a cardiovascular clinical manager and a surgical and clinical assistant.

Skip started his medical career as a respiratory therapist, but he was only allowed to do 40 percent of what he was trained to do. He noticed that nurses had more freedom and responsibility. Keeping his dad’s words in mind, he went into nursing. As a nurse, he was doing 90 percent of his respiratory training and 60 percent of his nursing training. Working with heart surgeons allowed him further autonomy because he was doing 90 percent of all his training. Nurse Practitioner was the next logical step.

So in 2015, the hero graduated from Walden University with an M.S. in Nursing. With degree in hand, Skip went to work for De Kalb Physicians Clinic as a Family Nurse Practitioner. For the last six years, he has worked part-time in the emergency department at Wadley Regional Medical Center through Texarkana Emergency Physicians and Schumacher Clinical Partners.

Despite having 400 hours of college credit, which could have made him a doctor twice over, Skip didn’t want to be on call constantly. “I have a larger impact on trying to make peoples’ lives better,” he explains.

While Skip always kept his military and nursing careers separate, the two gave him diversity in his life. He could easily use his medical knowledge in his military career, rendering first aid if no medics were available or supporting medics if they needed assistance.

“My dad always said you could be a subject matter expert in one thing, and if that thing goes away, your job goes away. But if you are good at a hundred things, you will always have options,” Skip says.

Every specialty has different positives and negatives, but Skip’s favorite part of medicine is seeing people positively respond to therapy or treatment and get better and have a better quality of life.

“It’s called practicing, because in medicine, there is no final event. It’s always trial and error because every day is different,” Skip says. “Nothing is instantaneous. Most of the time treatment takes days if not weeks. It is all dependent on the effort that the patient puts in. Once we give them advice, it is up to them to take it.”

While Skip is a hero the people can root for, he is also a hero who roots for people. Helping people is the motivation for everything he does. “I’ve spent 24 years as a nurse and 25 years as a soldier. To be able to give back is what makes someone an American. It’s not selfish or for personal gain. It is for the betterment of everyone around you.”

Act III. The hero gets the girl and continues a life of service.

Act III of Skip’s life is still being written. In 2018, he reconnected with his high school sweetheart after a 33-year separation. Together, Skip and Shelia have six children: Ryan Hadaway, 31; Lance Hadaway, 29; Eric Fair, 29; Cori Fair, 27; Ethan Hadaway, 17; and Maci Hadaway, 17.

“We live in the greatest country in the world with the greatest freedom and ability to live a life that we create for ourselves. To be part of that, to have served people in every capacity makes me proud to be an American,” Skip says.

At 57, Skip says he is exactly where he wants to be. Every film buff and avid reader knows that the story doesn’t end when the credits roll or with the author’s acknowledgements. Viewers and readers have to stay tuned for the sequel. In this life imitating art scenario, the quest continues.

While attending Ryan and Jossie Hadaway’s wedding in June 2020, Skip visits with his father, Al Hadaway.

In 2018, Skip and reconnected with his high school sweetheart, Sheila Jones.

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TALIMENA RALLY CRUISIN’ FOR ST. JUDE 2021

The Talimena Rally 2021 Cruisin’ for St. Jude was held May 27-29 at the Arkansas Convention Center. Friday’s ride featured “Riding the Hills.” Mike Mayberry and The Slow Hands were the featured entertainment that evening. On Saturday, the group rode the “Queen Wilhelmina Ride,” and entertainment was the Dusty Rose Band. A total of $75,485 was raised with proceeds benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Tammie and Lee Erwin

Kyle Booker, Veronica Brown and Richard McBroom

Ronnie Dees Snoopy Conly and David Storch

Dr. Bo and Tammy Kelley

Tony and Kim McMurry

Trish and Greg Williams

Jimmy Pierce, Heidi Theroux, Lester Trahan, Debbie and Tim Covey, Missy Holland, Sam Elmore and John Petard

Suzy, Mike and Fallon Turner

Greg and Cindy Boyett

Veronica Brown and Kyle Booker

Jan Shuttleworth and Cali Gentry

Sherry and Al Holcombe

Carol and Neil Jones

Greg Miller and Dennis Sherman

Zane Smith, Mallori Guillot, Sheena Guillot and Cali Gentry

HER LITTLE WORKS OF Art

by ELLEN ORR

KATIE SCHWARTZ ENJOYS DESIGNING BEAUTIFUL CHARCUTERIE BOARDS FOR GOOD MOOD FOOD CLIENTS

Julia Child once remarked that the only true obstacle to overcome when cooking: a fear of failure. “You’ve got to have a what-the-hell attitude,” she said.

Local caterer and charcuterie aficionado Katie Schwartz of Good Mood Food has a similar life philosophy, though she puts it a bit more delicately: “I just believe in taking advantage of every good opportunity that comes my way, and wherever life takes me along the way is where I’m meant to be,” she said.

Katie never planned to work in the food service industry. After high school, she moved to Fayetteville to attend the University of Arkansas, but she returned home to Ashdown after one semester. “I was not motivated and did not do very well,” she said. “I started taking classes at Cossatot Community College, but I still wasn’t focused.”

Though she didn’t know it at the time, Katie was receiving invaluable education during these years, albeit

not necessarily in the classroom. She began working at Ironwood Grill, where she benefited from top-tier onthe-job training. “They held very high standards for their food and service,” she said. “From polishing knives to the way the food is presented, those small details are what make a business successful. I learned so much.”

After working at various restaurants, Katie went on to spend three formative years working under Jeff Loving, first at Twisted Fork and then at Chef on the Run Catering. “I would never have opened my own catering business if it wasn’t for my time working with Chef on the Run,” Katie said.

Working as a catering assistant was ideal for Katie at the time, as she had recently become a mother. After the birth of her son, Tyson, she had chosen to be a stay-athome mom, but she quickly discovered how unsustainable that lifestyle would be for her. “It was very isolating, and I needed time out of the house to be around other adults to

feel like myself again,” she explained. Working select catering events provided her the balance she sought.

When Chef on the Run went on hiatus in 2019, Jeff offhandedly commented that one of his staff ought to launch their own catering service. “When he said that, a light bulb went off in my head,” Katie remembered. “I decided then that I wanted to start my own business.” In December 2019, Good Mood Food was born.

From the beginning, GMF was successful—perhaps too successful. “I did not know what I was getting myself into,” Katie admitted, recounting all of the holiday parties she booked that year. “In the beginning, I said yes to every order that came my way; I was afraid to lose momentum. I never ran into any real problems, but there were definitely days I took on too much, and that would quickly lead to feeling burnout.”

When COVID hit, Katie was forced to cancel or postpone all of her bookings. She was secretly relieved. “My world slowed down for a bit and gave me time to think more about what I wanted from Good Mood Food,” she said.

In the summer of 2020, Katie started receiving orders

for charcuterie boards, and she quickly garnered a reputation for her beautiful meat-and-cheese spreads, garnished with both typical and unconventional accouterments. “They are my little works of art,” she said. “I just love going all over to different grocery stores and finding new things to put on them.”

Katie’s work often features playful ingredients—candies, artisanal honeys and jams, fresh sprigs of herbs, and out-ofthe-box hors d’oeuvres like miniature waffles. Bursting with color, texture, aroma, and flavor, these spreads are clearly made with equal parts skill and fun.

“For once, I have found something I enjoy doing, and I have been successfully doing it,” she said, adding that she now accepts very few non-charcuterie jobs. “It really has been a great experience.”

While building a business and raising her child, Katie has also been working toward a bachelor’s degree in business administration for the past three years. She will earn her diploma this August and intends to pursue an MBA afterward. Katie once believed that higher education was her ticket out of the food service industry. “But I enjoy doing Good Mood

Food and the flexibility in my schedule,” she said, “and I have been able to apply a lot of the concepts I have learned in school to the operation of my business. Honestly, I have no clue what the future holds. I have some big decisions to make in the next couple of months.”

Katie’s life has not followed any recipe. The food service world, initially intended only to be a young-adult stopover, has become her playground. Her child, Tyson, made her a mother, an honor not sought out but bestowed upon her. “I never pictured being a mother, but I was also young when I had Tyson and didn’t have my life together when

Katie and her fiancé, Nick Tuberville, and their son, Tyson, at Katie’s little sister’s wedding this past March. (Photo by Benjamin Martin Photography)

Team Good Mood Food worked a bridal fair at Ramage Farms in February of 2020. Pictured with Katie (center) are her mother, Denise Schwartz, and sister, Rachael Potter.

Katie and Tyson enjoying the sun and surf in Florida last October.

Chef on the Run Jeff Loving worked with Katie during a catering event in May 2021.

I got pregnant,” she said. “Now I couldn’t imagine my world being any different and love being a boy mom.” And, in October, she will finally marry Tyson’s father, her fiancé of five years, Nick Tuberville. If the past is any indication, the future certainly holds more bounty than Katie could imagine for herself. In this way, Katie’s life is reflected in her favorite aspect of charcuterie assembly: “My favorite part of the work,” she said, “is starting from a blank slate and watching everything come together.”

Experts Ask the

CARRIE TRUSTY Director of Marketing, MRC Cornerstone Retirement Community

What are the financial benefits of living in a retirement community?

When you live at a retirement community, you don’t have to worry about large and usually unplanned expenses that come with home ownership, such as, replacing a roof or an air conditioning unit. In addition, as seniors progress in age, there are expensive modifications that may be needed to a home, that in most circumstances, do not increase your home value.

Living in a retirement community, an all-inclusive monthly fee helps to plan, without worrying about the big expenses that can pop up. This offers peace of mind and maintenance free living opportunities that let you enjoy your independence.

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

During August 2020, Katie (second from left) worked her first wedding at Tree Haven with Amber Brown, Mellisa Brown and Joni Millican.

JULY 2021

EVERY

TUESDAY

IN JULY

The Tough Kookie Foundation is looking for childhood cancer patients and families that have lost a child due to a childhood cancer to come paint free of charge at the 1894 Gallery, located at 105 Olive Street in Texarkana, Arkansas. Paintings will be posted at TRAHC for the month of September for Childhood Cancer month. Please contact Katina Levingston at 903293-7093 or Kathy Hudson at 903826-3070 for information.

EVERY SATURDAY IN JULY

The Tough Kookie Walkers will meet at 7 a.m. at Central Mall’s JC Penney entrance to walk the mall. Call Katina Levingston at 903-293-7093 for any information.

JULY 2

July’s “First Friday” event will be held at the Regional Arts Center from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Call 903-792-8681 for more information.

JULY 3

The Texarkana Museums System will host The Talking Dead Twilight Walking Tour at Stateline Cemetery, located at 1301 Stateline in Texarkana, Arkansas. These tours are guided, walking tours with living history performances. For more information, check the event page at www.texarkanamuseums.org/ events or call 903-793-4831.

JULY

3

The Texarkana Museums System will host a Monuments and Memorials Tour beginning at 11 a.m. and starting at the Museum of Regional History. The tour will feature living performers. Cost is $10 for TMS members and $15 for others. Register at www.texarkanamuseums.org/ events.

JULY

12-17

The Texarkana Children’s Charities Open will be held at Texarkana and Northridge Country Clubs. The event will benefit Runnin’ WJ Ranch. For information, contact Mark Van Herpen at 903-748-9532 or email: mvanherpen@ledwell.com.

JULY

16-17

Friends for a Cause Foundation will host its Girls Giftaway, “Back to the ’80s,” at the Texarkana Convention Center. For more information, visit: www.eventbrite.

com/e/2021-girls-giftawaytickets-151004997011.

JULY 18

The Tough Kookie Foundation support groups will meet from 4-5 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn. The meetings can also be viewed by Zoom. Call Katina Levingston at 903-293-7093 for more information.

AUGUST EVENT

AUGUST 6-8

The 44th annual Hope Watermelon Festival will be held at Fair Park in Hope, Arkansas. Saturday’s concert will feature country music artist, Phil Vassar. Other activities will include axe throwing, car show, rubber duck waddle, baggo tournament, antique entine show, dog show, watermelon contest, fishing derby, Kiwanis BBQ chicken dinner, Lion’s Club fish fry, and much more. Call 870-777-3640 or visit: www.hopewatermelonfest. com for more information.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

RUNNIN’ WJ BARREL RACE 2021

The 14th annual Runnin’ WJ Barrel Race was held June 11-13 at the Four States Fairgrounds. A $50,000 Future Fortunes pot was up for grabs with a $12,000 added bonus. First place winners were: Friday – Sarah Rose Waguespack on Roses Roan Ranger ($1,557); Saturday – Chani Graves on I’m Little Bit Famous ($1,581); and Sunday – Josie Whittington on CB Hottest Guy Yet ($1,425). A list of all results can be found at: www. runninwjbarrelrace.webs.com. This event benefits the Runnin’ WJ Ranch Therapeutic Riding Center.

Yeti and Lacy Keller

Wayne and Karen Richardson

Karen Richardson and Patti Moore

Chasin Seattle Slew and Sissie Wherrell

Voscia Walker and Melana Martin

Dillon Boykin and Catman

Zoey Patterson and April Starnes

Jessica and Dillon Blackwell

Larry Cowling, Jackie Sue Watlington and Sharon Vaughan

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

FOUKE MONSTER FESTIVAL

The third annual Fouke Monster Festival was held June 19 at the Fouke Community Center. Over 180 fans attended the event which featured Bigfoot presentations, tours, movie actors, and track casting.

Russell and Rainey Colbert

Ashley Boggs and Lyle Blackburn

Pam and Wes Schuknecht

Billy McDonald and “Bigfoot”

Craig Woolheater and Lacy Coker

Diane and Whitey Odell

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

HOPE JUNIOR AUXILIARY BEGINS NEW PROGRAM YEAR

The Hope chapter of Junior Auxiliary has begun a new program year. The organization, whose primary focus is helping children and meeting community needs, has several projects planned for the upcoming year.

“Some of the things we have planned for this program year are our Annual Spaghetti Supper, Glow Golf Tournament, Baggo Tournament, and our new Bunko event. These fundraisers are used for scholarships for seniors in Hempstead County,” said incoming president Lyndsi Easterling. “This year, students from Hope, Spring Hill, Blevins and Garrett Memorial received scholarships funded by events like these.”

One of the JA chapter’s biggest projects is Sweet Reads. Members of Junior Auxiliary go into first grade classrooms in Hempstead County and read to children. Students are all given a take-home book to encourage family literacy engagement and to aide in building home libraries.

The chapter also plans to have service events like Train Days, Canned Food Drive, Breakfast with Santa, Trunk or Treat Downtown, and National Night Out to interact with and aide community members. They will also help with coat donations and school supplies as needed.

Anyone interested in learning more about joining the Junior Auxiliary of Hope, may contact Lyndsi Easterling at lyndsieasterling@yahoo.com.

The 2021-2022 Hope Junior Auxiliary Executive Board: (seated) Lindsey Johnson (co-treasurer), Mary Berry (ex officio), Aley Mendoza (vice president), Shari Smith (parliamentarian). (back row) Lyndsi Easterling (president), Sharon Caldwell (projects), Stephanie Mendoza (education), Linsey Kirkpatrick (treasurer), Jen Hawley (membership), and Holli Boyett (public relations)

Exquisite INTERIORS

SANCTUARY. PARADISE. RETREAT.

BY SUZY TURNER. PHOTOS BY KIM MCMURRY AND

When meeting Tonya and Tim Byrd, it doesn’t take long for people to immediately notice two things about this dynamic couple: family means everything to them, and being on the lake is their “happy place.” Combine those two things, and there is no denying their happiness; you can just see the smiles on their faces and feel the love in their hearts.

Growing up on the water was always a part of Tonya’s childhood. Her mother and father purchased eight different houseboats throughout their lives, and Tonya remembers how much fun her family always had in their floating home. It was only fitting that Tonya and Tim carried on her parents’ legacy while also making great memories with their own family. So in 2015, they bought their first houseboat, a 35 foot Drifter. After their three children became adults, and grandchildren were brought into the mix, Tonya and Tim knew that they needed a larger houseboat where their family could all be together and enjoy life afloat. When they saw this beautiful 1996 Lakeview 14x55 houseboat docked at DeGray Lake State Park, they knew immediately that this would be their new sanctuary. They purchased the boat in 2017 enjoying every free minute on the water. In 2020, they began to consider taking on a major makeover project on their watercraft. Since they had recently remodeled their residence, they knew they could once again use their resourcefulness to create a beautiful floating oasis.

With all the amenities of home, this contemporary houseboat contains three bedrooms and one and a half baths. The boat’s new coastal décor adds a seaside vibe to every room. Blackout shades from Blind Ambition are used throughout the space which allows the Byrds to control how much light invades the rooms. Fresh paint adds an up-to-date ambiance in the boat, with splashes of color added to the trim work and pocket doors. Accent lighting draws attention to focal points while creating visual interest to each space.

When approaching from the dock, the first thing visitors see

TONYA BYRD.

on Tonya and Tim’s vessel is a sign that reads, “Honey & Poppy’s Boat.” Live ferns and succulents grab attention on the forward deck, coordinating with the colorful upholstery on the swivel chairs positioned around a glass-topped table. The serene space feels quaint and peaceful, welcoming everyone aboard.

On the starboard side of the houseboat sits the salon (living area). Large windows provide the perfect view of Lake DeGray. Accent hues in shades of blue and gold add color to the otherwise neutral palette. A collage of family photos envelops the front of a cabinet, as a fun sign announces that this is the “Best Family Ever.” An additional cabinet, originally designed for storing shoes, sits on the floor beneath the photos and has been transformed into a functional food/snack cabinet. The helm is located on the port side, with a large flatscreen TV situated behind it, offering the perfect visibility from the sofa for watching movies or entertaining the grandchildren.

The galley’s open floor plan adds versatility and functionality to the well-equipped space. The L-shaped bar transforms into the perfect food prep area and offers additional seating for three. The navy, teal, and aqua glass mosaic tile backsplash creates movement below the pristine white cabinets. Black residential appliances coordinate with the cabinet hardware, blending in seamlessly. A turquoise anchor hangs above the stove, bringing in a nautical ambiance, while an abstract painting in shades of blue completes the theme.

Across from the galley area is an intimate upper cuddy cabin which houses a queen size bed. A fusion of outdoor and coastal styles blend well while the red, white, and blue bedding accents the look. A large window provides the perfect view of the lake and even an occasional sighting of a bald eagle on the shore.

The Kid Cave and another bedroom are situated on each side of the stairs in the lower cuddy. While climbing down the steps, the washer/dryer combo sits straight ahead at eye level. A beach towel organizer is within arm’s reach on the wall easily accessible to the family as they prepare for a day of swimming.

To the right of the stairs is a cabin which features bedding in bright colors of orange, red, and blue. Throw pillows accent the colorfully patterned bedding. A sign reads, “together is my favorite place to be,” and is situated above the bed, along with a flatscreen TV. Tucked to the left of the stairs is the massive Kid Cave. Blue rope lights illuminate the fun play area while two miniature sofas show off the Byrds’ grandchildren’s favorite cartoon characters.

A cornflower and sky blue seashell and starfish motif complements the marine theme in the captain’s quarters. Since Tonya loves to shoot photos of beautiful sunsets, she chose one of her favorites to enlarge and hang on the bedroom wall. Prints of seashells are strategically placed on each side of the king bed. A sign reads, “the boat house,” which is exactly what the Byrds’ 5-year-old granddaughter, Ellie, calls this floating home.

Right outside of the master is the aft deck which features a comfortable seating area and a sign which says, “A Wave From It All,” the houseboat’s clever name. The intimate sitting area affords the opportunity to sit and enjoy some fresh air as the ceiling fan creates a gentle breeze. A compact mini-fridge sits under the stairs leading to the immense upper deck, where the majority of the fun actually takes place.

The weather deck offers a panoramic view and reminds one of a “cruise line” deck. The outdoor seating area features comfortable cushions and throw pillows. A nearby fire table creates a focal point on the deck and adds a sense of luxury while also keeping

guests warm on chilly nights. With room for the entire family to gather, the adults can relax and enjoy lake time while the youngsters plunge down the slide and into the tranquil waters.

For Tim and Tonya, making memories with their friends and family while recharging from a busy week are their favorite things about owning a boat. Although Tim jokes that B.O.A.T. stands for “Break Out Another Thousand,” he is quick to add that no price can be put on spending quality time with loved ones.

Tonya and Tim feel very blessed to get to wake up to placid waters, an extremely picturesque view, and warm sunshine on their faces while enjoying their home away from home. After all, life is always better at the lake ... the place where memories are made, stories are told, and souls are restored.

FOLLOW THE BYRDS ON INSTAGRAM AT: LAKELIFEISTHEBESTLIFE..

A Pinch of Salt

by Donnie Spriggs

Summertime means fresh foods for those outdoor grilling days. Most people who write food blogs or articles would tell you what type of marinade to use or what to grill, maybe even what grill to use. Personally, I don’t have a preference; I just want you to enjoy it. What I am going to offer is two different recipes of side dishes you can take to the BBQ or the family reunion that I love to make. We know I try and keep it simple!

This recipe is one of my favorites if you love buffalo sauce. I could eat buffalo sauce with everything, so I might as well make a pasta dish out of it.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 lb. short pasta such as gemelli, shells, elbows, penne

• 2½ cups cubed roasted chicken breast (I like to use Albertsons rotisserie chicken.)

• 3 stalks celery sliced thinly on the bias

• ¾ cup blue cheese dressing (preferably homemade)

• ½ cup hot sauce (preferably Frank’s Red Hot)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta, and cook until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse well with cold water to shock the cooking process and cool the pasta.

2. Add the drained pasta to a mixing bowl. Add the chicken, celery, blue cheese dressing, hot sauce, and about 2/3 of the scallions. Mix thoroughly, and transfer to a serving dish. Top with the remaining scallions and serve.

3. The pasta salad is best the day it is made, before it begins to absorb too much of the dressing

This is the simplest recipe I know how to do; I have also used the stuffed shells that have cheese on the inside as well, and that has been a great addition to the dish.

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad

Next is my favorite!!! I am a little strange to some because I cannot stand mustard potato salad ... nope, do not serve it to me. I do not like to look at that mess!! But I do love mayo-based potato salad with fresh new potatoes!

INGREDIENTS

2 lbs. small red potatoes

1 tablespoon apple cider

½ cup sour cream

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon yellow mustard

½ medium red onion, finely chopped (about ½ cup)

3 celery stalks, finely chopped (about ½ cup)

1 medium dill pickle, finely chopped (about 1/3 cup)

2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped

1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, chives, tarragon, or cilantro)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS

COOK POTATOES

Add potatoes to large pot and cover with 1½ inches of water. Season with salt (use one teaspoon for every quart of water). Bring the water to a boil then reduce to a low simmer. Cook 15-20 minutes or until easily pierced with a fork.

Donnie Spriggs is a longtime resident of Texarkana, Texas.

Meanwhile, set up an ice bath. Add cold water to a medium bowl filled with ice. Drain the potatoes and add to the ice bath. When cool, peel potatoes by gently pinching the skin and pulling it away. Chop peeled potatoes into bite-size chunks then add to a large bowl. Scatter the vinegar over potatoes and lightly season with salt.

While the potatoes cook, add onions to a small bowl and cover with cool water. Wait 10 minutes then rinse. (This tones down the raw flavor of the onions.)

POTATO SALAD

Mix sour cream, mayonnaise, and the mustard in a bowl. Add sour cream mixture, de-flamed onion, celery, pickles, eggs, and herbs to the potatoes. Gently stir to combine. (Try not to mash the potatoes.)

Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you have the time, refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving.

Hope you all enjoy these recipes, and have a great summer either on the water or in the woods!

Don’t forget to follow me on pinch_of_salt20 on Instagram.

He has been in the restaurant industry since he was 16 and has been with Silver Star Smokehouse since 2014.

He is a student at Texas A&M-Texarkana where he is part of the BAAS program.

He loves people but likes food even more, mainly because food makes people happy!

Potato Salad

THE ROAD Tra veled less

BY NICHOLE HOLZE

One of my greatest joys is when we are able to visit a place we’ve studied in our homeschool. It’s especially joyful when those visits coincide with National Parks and books that we’ve read. All of those things came together on a visit to Upper Michigan and the Great Lakes.

After visiting family in Wisconsin, our family took off for the upper peninsula of Michigan and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This dramatic and picturesque shoreline is located between Munising and Grand Marais, Michigan. It’s most well-known for kayaking in the warmer months, when you can glide around the rocky outcroppings that drop into Lake Superior. While we were too short on time to spend a day kayaking, we did the short hike to Miner’s Castle overlook and took in the sunset at Miner’s Beach. If you have more time, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore!

Next, we made our way down to the famous I-75 bridge over the Straits of Mackinac. My children were so thrilled to be looking out over two Great Lakes at once and chattered on about what they remembered from the book, “Paddle to the Sea.” We stopped to dip our toes in Lake Huron before rolling back to the east and Wilderness State Park, located on a small peninsula in northern Lake Michigan. The gently rolling waves made for a great evening, along with the frog, tadpole, fish, and snake chasing, despite the freezing cold water.

One of the most remarkable things about Lake Michigan is how beautifully clear the water is! If it weren’t for the cold temperature, you could easily trick yourself into thinking you’re someplace tropical. Another famous stop: Petosky State Park, the only place you can legally collect the famous Petosky stones, a fossil found along the eastern shores of Lake

Petosky Stone

Miner’s Castle Lookout

I-75 Bridge over the Straits of Mackinac

Michigan. Keep your eyes down as you walk along the beach, and you just might get lucky!

The remainder of our trip took us down and around Grand Traverse Bay, where bookstores, wineries, coffee shops, and more dotted each city we passed. Our tour of upper Michigan ended with a trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park, home to one of the largest sand dunes we’ve ever seen! If you’re feeling brave, you can even hike up it. We were headed for the waves and spent our last day swimming in the freezing water and enjoying the view down the beach.

Northern Michigan is worth spending an entire vacation, and we are so looking forward to heading up again. Another perk for a summer time visit? Warm weather makes that cold water feel a little better, plus it’s clear water, with waves, but no sharks or jellyfish. That’s a win in our book.

Wilderness State Park

A bookshop along the way

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park

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

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.

MADELEINE RUSSELL

age: 26

Occupation: Business Development Specialist at Texarkana College

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

Pay off my house, car, and donate 10% to the church. Then buy a first-class ticket to Florence, Italy!

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

I could lie and say read a book or go for a walk ... but more than likely it’s going to be watching TikToks (I’m a millennial who’s trying to be Gen Z).

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

I with that I could travel through time.

At what business could you max out a credit card?

Luna Boutique or Ulta ... EASILY!

Choose a movie title for the story of your life. “The Plant Lady.”

What are you currently watching on Netflix?

“Outlander!” Someone please go to Scotland with me.

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

Buckingham Palace, to have high tea with Queen Elizabeth.

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

What’s your favorite sport to watch, and which team do you root for? Fightin’ Texas Aggie football! Gig’em.

ROGER SHEPPARD

age: 68

Occupation: Owner of Redbone Magic Brewing

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

At this time of my life, I would like to replace my truck. I would pay off both of my daughters’ homes, and then I would hire somebody to stay and take care of my 96-year-old mother. Other than that, I would find some young kids with needs and try to improve their lives

When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you pass the time? I develop new magical effects.

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

I would wish to finish writing my book and to reduce the physical pain that I suffer on a daily basis.

At what business could you max out a credit card? I could max my card out and have maxed my card out in a magic shop.

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

What are you currently watching on Netflix? “Tennessee Whiskey: The Dean Dillon Story.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go? Munich, Germany, during Oktoberfest.

If you could only have three apps on your smartphone, which would you pick? Facebook. Messenger. Yahoo Mail.

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

I am not a sports fan; I am a business fan. I root for all businesses. I will re-program myself to become a sports fan to watch my grandchildren compete.

“ PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN ” Capitalism. It rocks!

I am proud to live in a country where I can learn, worship, speak, and live freely. “Let future generations understand the burden and the blessings of freedom. Let them say we stood where duty required us to stand.” - President George H.W. Bush