Four States Living Magazine July 2023

LETTER THE WAY I SEE IT ...

and cranny. Part of the allure of Outward Bound was the leadership training that participants underwent; what I did not know until I got there was that the leadership training occurred every morning before breakfast, at 3:45 a.m. We practiced “leave no trace” camping, packing all of our food and supplies into our kayaks for the trip duration. We kayaked during the day like our lives depended on it, and we slept on empty, desolate beaches at night. There were no cell phones or computers, but we were allowed a disposable camera and a notepad. I must have written “I will never complain about my life at home again” one hundred times. Occasionally, we saw a giant sea turtle or a couple of random swimming pigs, but for the most part, the days were long and difficult, and I just wanted to go home to see my kids.

PUBLISHER’S

Robin Rogers, Ed.D.

Afew years back, I was having an existential crisis of sorts; I was middle-aged, tired, depressed, and trying to be everything to everyone at work and home. Unlike my friends, whose kids were burgeoning into self-sufficiency, I was realizing that an empty nest was not ever going to be part of my plan.

Now, I know people who plan everything, from date nights to delivery days to what time their children will graduate from college seven years from now, but I am not that person.

During my short period of existential crisis, my life had become routine and very ridiculous, in an effort to “keep up.” I would wake too early, chase my tail until I could get kids out of the house, hurry to work, hurry back to kids, procure dinner, grade papers, attend events, rush to get everyone settled, and THEN try to relax and get myself to sleep. Back then, I slept very little. If I got to bed before 2 a.m., that was a great night of sleep. Like so many others I know, I was on a hamster wheel of grumpy parenthood coupled with work, trying to give everyone my all and failing miserably. There are not enough hours in the day or days in the week to be everything that the Internet says makes a good parent. If you think you can do it all, more power to you, but I needed more sleep, less work, and fewer commitments. Yet, like so many people I know, I kept going, growing more disillusioned with whom I had become.

Instead of buying a sports car or giving myself bangs, I signed up for a two-week sea-kayaking adventure in Costa Rica—by myself. It was supposed to be a $3,000 first jump into “finding myself.” I had read about Outward Bound Adventure Courses for years, and it felt like a cure to what ailed me: an adventure without the demands of technology and the confines of daily life, where sleep would come easily after a hard day of physical exertion. It sounded perfect. Thinking back, a few days on the Buffalo River might have been a better choice, but Costa Rica and the ocean and the sand between my toes sounded so much more romantic than Arkansas.

The romance of my mid-life crisis was short-lived: after that first day of intense paddling for nine hours through several feet of swells in the Pacific Ocean in a two-person kayak with a 25-year-old dude just out of the Peace Corps, I was entirely disillusioned. There was plenty of sand between my toes . . . and in every other crevice

Four St ates Living

PUBLISHER

Dr. Robin Rogers

INTERIM EDITOR

Ellen Orr

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Shane Darby

SALES REPRESENTATIVES

Kendal Griggs

Victoria Herman

One of the exercises we did as a group involved writing a bucket list. After I produced a pageful of items, I realized that what I had been doing in life was not getting me the results that I sought. Swimming as fast as I could below the surface, like a panicky duck, was exhausting. People—not money or things—were what I cared most about, but my schedule had precluded me from nourishing those relationships.

As you can imagine, my out-of-shape, middle-aged mom body was so over the Costa Rican kayak adventure after a few days. By day seven, half-way to the finish line, I lost it completely with the guide. Sobbing like a baby, I pleaded with her to get someone to rescue me. I was miserable, everything hurt, and I just wanted to go home. By that point, I had no shame left, and the other people saw my despair. I was the oldest person on the trip and for sure the weakest. My body hadn’t been washed in a week, and if I had to listen to the Peace Corps dude mansplain the meaning of life one more time, I might knock him in the head with a paddle.

Like a good leader, the guide sat with me in the shade until I settled down. Then she told me we were going all the way—all 14 days—and I cried some more.

Peace Corps dude helped me back to our kayak. He grabbed my Nalgene and purified me more water; then he told me to kick back and rest, as he would carry the weight of our craft forward. I had probably been mean to him because he had been so annoying, but he rescued me when I needed it most. Maybe he really did know the meaning of life, and maybe I just needed someone to remind me, not through aphorism but through action. People need other people, and there is not enough money or work or community engagement to make you happy if you don’t have real relationships.

After that midlife “vacation,” I got my priorities straight at home. I committed to planning for the things that I truly valued: nurturing my relationships and crossing items off my bucket list. Beyond that, I only plan to be amazed by the things I wander upon in this life.

Since Outward Bound, my life motto has been, “If you’re not having fun, it’s time to do something else.” So many stories in this issue exemplify that motto. My friend Cheyenne Adams won Pitch It Texarkana and opens her kayaking rental operation at Bringle Lake this month. She has taken something she loves—spending time outdoors with people she loves—and made it a central priority in her life. I truly can’t wait to watch her succeed. This issue also contains stories of people who find fun in sports, home restoration, “junking,” dancing, learning, and more. I hope you have as much fun reading these stories as we have had telling them.

As always, thanks for reading FSLM.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Shane Darby

Chloe Sanders

Lauren Simmons

Katie Stone

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Reese Langdon

Lindsey McMillan

Ellen Orr

Lauren Simmons

Katie Stone

Lisa Porterfield Thompson

COLUMNISTS

Velvet Hall Cool

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CONTENTS

ON THE COVER JULY 2023

Pitch It winner Cheyenne Adams saw a community need—for more outdoor recreation opportunities— and so she got busy working to meet it, beginning with Paddle TXK, a kayak-rental business at Bringle.

Read Whatever Floats Your Boat on page 20.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INSIDE : PAR FOR THE COURSE

Local golf pro Zack Fischer is competing this month in the Open Championship, following in the footsteps of legendary Texarkanan Bill Rogers, who won the Open in 1981. Read about his life and career on page 10.

IN THIS ISSUE

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

THE 8TH ANNUAL EMS APPRECIATION WEEK FIRST RESPONDERS’ DAY WAS HELD AT CROSSTIES EVENT CENTER ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 24TH

Shelby Brown and Cyndy Rider

Tim O’Neal, Bobby Jordan, and Erik Jacobsen, MD

Vickers Fuqua and Denis Washington

Alyssa Haley and Bo Kelley, MD

Angela Addison, Melissa Hammonds, and Ryan Stiles

Darren Higgs and Matt Young, MD

Cpl. Dale Young (ASP), Lt. Jamie Gravier (ASP), Arkansas State Representative Carol Dalby, and Former Arkansas State Representative Prissy Hickerson

Jonathan Rogers, Lance Cheatham, and Jerrod Knoll

Ebony Mitchell, Beverly Thompson, and Michael McGhee

Conner Young, Jason Castleberry, Donald Brooks, Megan Pappas, Jess Gibbs, and William House

Angela Adkison, Dan Thomason, and Cindy Rider

PAR FOR THE COURSE

Zack Fischer’s journey to the 2023 Open Championship featured highs and lows

by ELLEN ORR

“In reality, golf doesn’t matter”—bold words spoken by professional golfer Zack Fischer, the 33-year-old Texarkana native competing this year in the oldest golf tournament in the world, the Open Championship (also referred to as the British Open and the Open).

“Playing professional golf was always a goal of mine, but I still could’ve had a great life if I weren’t playing golf professionally,” he said. “I think people put way too much emphasis on achievement and less on the process, which is kind of a cliché now in sports, but people just get so wrapped up in expectations. For me, personally, I just love golf.”

Zack played his first round of golf at age four, inspired by his dad, a golf enthusiast. At six, he played his first tournament. “Back then, [youth golf] wasn’t anything super formal; there was competition, but it wasn’t like it is now,” he said, explaining that youth competition has become more involved and intense than it was when he was young. His dad took him on day trips to nearby tournaments to compete.

By age 11, he was hooked. “Golf was just so much fun to me,” he said. He and his close pal Cabe Prieskorn were friendly rivals. “He definitely pushed me to be the best I possibly could be, and that’s kind of what made it fun.” When Cabe started training under coach Geoff Jones, Zack watched his friend’s skill level soar, and he knew he needed Jones’ coaching, too.

Today, over 22 years later, Geoff Jones is still Zack’s coach, as well as one of his closest friends. Geoff’s son, in fact, is caddying for Zack in the Open.

Zack attended Texas High School, playing for the Tigers all four years. He dreamt of attending The University of Texas at Austin. However, when recruiters watched him play throughout his junior year, he underperformed.

“When you’re a kid and a teenager, your brain is just developing, and it’s just very difficult to deal with all the emotions and hormones and everything that’s just going through your mind,” he reflected. Many people would have given up the dream of playing pro at this juncture. Zack credits his resilience to his spirituality, his parents, and Geoff.

“My parents were great in keeping me in church and holding me accountable to read my Bible and be involved in church,” he said, “and I’ve just been super blessed to have so many people—my parents, Geoff, and others—in my life who have been so encouraging.”

Zack attended UT–Arlington, playing for coach Jay Rees. Rees, a decorated coach, put together a standout and winning team. Zack’s teammates, like his childhood friend Cabe, challenged him to

Zack with his coach Geoff Jones.

Zack, in 2006, winning on the Texas Legends Summer Tour.

Hallie loves getting to spend time with Zack on the golf course.

Zack was competing in tournaments from age six on. Zack started golfing at age four.

be the best player he could be. It was during his time at UT–Arlington that Zack realized his dreams of pro golf were attainable. Following graduation, he sat down with one of his mentors—a fellow Texas High alumnus and the winner of the 1981 British Open, Bill Rogers.

“He basically told me that I needed to play through my amateur summer and just enjoy playing golf without playing for money,” he recalled. “And if I still found myself wanting to pursue it [professionally], then to do it.”

After a summer of playing as an amateur, Zack felt confident in his chosen career path. His first pro tournament was in Victoria, Texas, in August 2011. He tied for eighth place. “I started in the green, which is always good,” he said.

His first and second years as pro, he attempted “Q-School,” the qualifying tournament so named because players advance through four stages before “graduating” and earning a “tour card,” which grants entry into the Korn Ferry Tour. Q-School is widely known as one of the most grueling competitions in professional golf and spans three months. In both 2011 and 2012, Zack did not advance beyond the first stage.

In 2013, he won the entire tournament. He also qualified for the U.S. Open that year. “It was a huge whirlwind,” he remembered.

From 2014 to 2017, Zack played in the Korn Ferry Tour, “with varying degrees of success,” he said. In 2017, however, he faced a mental setback, akin to his high school “slump” almost a decade before.

“I kind of lost my way in golf,” he said. “I lost my swing. I lost my edge mentally, and I wanted to stop playing. I was burned out, and it wasn’t fun anymore.”

His heart wasn’t “in it,” but his pocketbook sure was. “Credit card bills were really piling up, and I thought, ‘I can’t afford this anymore,’” he

Zack with his caddy, Grayson Jones, and daughter Hallie in Kansas City for FCA Game Day.

recalled. “But God just kept giving me glimpses of success,” which, he explained, kept him going.

In 2019, he qualified for a PGA Tour event in San Antonio and finished 14th. He made $135,000. “That is still, to this day, the most money I’ve ever made in a tournament,” he said. “I basically won the lottery.”

In 2021, at Texarkana Country Club, Zack experienced what he calls “the big defining point in [his] whole career.”

On the first day of the Texarkana Children Charities Open, he choked. “In the first round, I instantly feel myself get nervous. I ended up shooting like a 78, which is not good,” he said. “I’m so upset, I’m crying, and I think I’ve just lost my edge.”

He went to see Geoff, to tell him the bad news: it was time to quit.

“I’m sobbing,” he recounted, “telling him that I’ve hit a wall, that I can’t play golf anymore, that I’m not good enough to do this anymore. He just sits there and then starts smiling at me. And I’m like, ‘Why are you smiling at me? I’m literally opening my heart to you!’ And he goes, ‘You haven’t lost your edge. You’re putting way too much pressure on yourself.’”

Geoff convinced him to play the next day of the tournament just for fun, with no expectations. Then he could quit afterward, if he still felt he should. The second day, he shot a 62, the day’s low.

Zack’s wife, Kaitlin, is his biggest supporter. In fact, following their wedding in November 2014, she caddied for him on tour. “We got to go to Panama, Brazil, Colombia, Chile—all these really cool places,” he said. “It was basically like going to a different place on our honeymoon every week. It was fantastic.”

“I went from the worst day to the best day,” he said, “and it showed me that I was putting this devastating weight on myself, which was inhibiting me from doing anything.” That revelation was the catalyst he needed, and he played the rest of the season successfully.

When the 2022 Q-School came around, Zack wasn’t going to enter, simply because of the financial burden: the entry fee is $5,500. A benefactor, who remains anonymous to the public, paid the fee for him, as a loan. Zack again won the tournament, becoming the first person ever to win Q-School twice.

His 2022 Q-School championship earned him a spot in the PGA Tour of Latin America. He knew that the Argentina Open in itself was not an opportunity for significant financial return, but the champion would be granted exemption into the British Open. With the encouragement of his wife, Kaitlin, he booked his ticket.

After a ten-hour flight south, Zack arrived in Buenos Aires, exhausted and unable to get enough rest. He became “super sick,” he said: “like, barely-functioning sick. I called my wife to tell her I wasn’t sure if I would even be able to play.”

Nevertheless, he hit the greens, “moseying around as slow as possible,” he said. “I was so tired I didn’t even care.” His stellar performance, then, was nothing short of miraculous. After four rounds, he was tied for third, though he still felt so bad he was seriously considering withdrawing.

Instead, he hired a caddy: Mario. “He didn’t speak much English, but we still communicated really well,” Zack marveled. “Having him carrying the clubs just made the weight so much less. I ended up playing really well that day too, and I ended up taking the lead into the final round.”

As Kaitlin and two-year-old daughter, Hallie, watched on YouTube Live from their home in Little Rock, Zack sunk his final shot and won the Argentina Open.

“The only reason I won that golf tournament is because God was literally carrying me around the golf course,” he said. “I can take zero credit for it.”

Zack will compete in the Open Championship at the Royal Liverpool Golf Club in Hoylake, Merseyside, England. The tournament runs from July 16th to July 23rd.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

GREATER TEXARKANA YOUNG PROFESSIONALS HELD A NETWORKING EVENT AT H ANDS O N TEXARKANA ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 31ST.

Jakob Martin, Tommy Dixon, Braxton Langdon, Natalie Copeland, and Chint Murdock Misty Schappert, Scott Russett, and Cassie Scott

Davis McDaniel, Zoe Terral, Heather Buster, and Keith Beason

Lucas Sullivan, Malachi Smith, and Denis Washington

Brandi Wilson and Amanda Bowers

Justin Swecker, Zac Harrington, and Daniel Lucas

Natalie Haywood, Amber Adams, Camille Powell, and Denis Washington

Amy Lemley, Tera Savage, and James Syler

photo by LAUREN SIMMONS

WHATEVER FLOATS YOUR BOAT

by LAUREN SIMMONS

Cheyenne Adams couldn’t believe her ears when the judges told her she had won $7,500. She had stood before a panel of judges during the Pitch It Texarkana entrepreneurs contest on Thursday, March 30th and presented her idea for Paddle TXK, a kayak rental business at Bringle Lake.

“I did not expect to win. Everyone had brilliant ideas; there was no one I thought didn’t deserve [to win],” Cheyenne said. “All the other contestants were incredibly supportive, gave me hugs, and said they would come kayak with me.”

The annual contest, which began in 2022, accepts 100 applicants from the Texarkana area, all who submit business proposals that they believe deserve funding. The judges then narrows the pool down to ten contestants. These top contestants are brought before a panel of judges, composed of local entrepreneurs, to whom they give a three-minute pitch of their business idea. The winner of the competition receives $7,500 to fund their venture.

Annemarie Sullivan, the owner of Sullifarm and Kitchen, was one of the judges on the panel. She said Cheyenne’s organization and passion for the subject was what caused her to stand out above the rest.

“Cheyenne had already done quite a bit of work and research on her pitch, providing us with a brief business plan that showed sustainability, profitability, and viability,” Annemarie said. “Her pitch showcased something that would provide outdoor entertainment, be a family-friendly activity, and improve on an already existing piece of our city.”

Cheyenne was the 1st Place winner in the 2023 Pitch It Texarkana contest.

photo by LAUREN SIMMONS

Cheyenne holds one of the kayaks which will be used for Paddle TXK, the new kayak business by Bringle Lake Park West.

Cheyenne wasn’t the average contestant. Her name entered the competition in an unusual way, she explained. Adams, a waitress at Verona Restaurant, said her boss, Paul Estes, was the one who signed her up for the event.

“Cheyenne is very outdoorsy,” Estes said. “She is hiking or camping every weekend. We have talked several times about how cool it would be to have a more useful outdoor space close to us.”

While her entry into the contest was unusual, her motives were clear: Cheyenne’s passion for outdoor recreation is an evident theme in her life— and one that she knew could benefit Texarkana.

“I love the outdoors. And I love kayaking because it’s something I can do with my children. Everyone complains that Texarkana has nothing to do, but there is plenty to do; it just has to be utilized,” Cheyenne said. “Kayaking is family friendly, and it’s very inclusive for all ages and sizes.”

Cheyenne said that, whether she won the competition or not, she was motivated to stick with her plan and create a new culture around Bringle Lake. Her vision is to turn Bringle Lake into a family-friendly hangout spot for the entire community—and it all starts with Paddle TXK.

Cheyenne said her first step after winning the competition was to buy 15 new kayaks, paddles, and life jackets. The unexpected challenge? Paperwork.

“It’s a much more lengthy process than I imagined, but not in a bad way. The bulk of paperwork has been in insurance and safety procedures. But working with the city has been awesome. They are going to such lengths to keep people safe,” she said.

Cheyenne said her main supporter through this process has been her best friend, Brianna Lancaster. She cited Brianna as being her primary advisor, helper, and cheerleader throughout the project.

“Cheyenne lets nothing bring her down,” Brianna said. “She is a single mother of two lovely girls, and I know she wants to show them the way to real happiness and success. She has always had a soft spot for our community and the people who love to live here.”

Her mother, Patrecia Adams, agreed, stating that Cheyenne has displayed a passion for life and an independent spirit since she was a child.

“I have always admired her determination and ‘never give up’ attitude,” Patricia said. “She always deals with challenges head-on, and rarely, if ever, gets discouraged. She just keeps going, no matter what.”

The highest priority for Paddle TXK is safety. While Cheyenne expects no problems, she has implemented different plans to make sure her customers stay safe no matter what happens.

“I want everyone to know that this is going to be super fun and super safe,” she said. “I’ll be

In addition to kayaking, Cheyenne loves to paddle board on Bringle Lake with friends and family.

Cheyenne and her daughters on their family vacation to the Smoky Mountains National Park along the North Carolina and Tennessee border.

Cheyenne stands on the peak of Rattlesnake Ridge in Roland, AR. She says her love for the outdoors is present in every area of her life.

happy to teach anyone anything they need to know. And if you’re nervous about going out on a kayak, then I will go out there with you, because I know trying new things can be nerve-wracking.”

Cheyenne intends to open on July 4th. Paddle TXK boasts 12 single kayaks, two tandem kayaks, and two pedal boats, which hold four people each. The fee is $25 for one hour and $10 for each additional hour, or $50 for the whole

day. Kayakers are required to wear life jackets at all times as well as adhere to a dress code based on safety requirements. Anyone under 15 years old must have an adult present. Paddle TXK is already pre-booked to host cookouts, birthday parties, and homeschool field trips, and they are open for future event bookings.

Cheyenne’s future plans for Paddle TXK include getting more kayaks on the water, expand-

ing to more locations around Texarkana, and generally creating more local outdoor activities. She especially hopes to see Bringle Lake Park become “more of a hangout spot, with picnic tables and food trucks,” she said.

Becki Campbell, Cheyenne’s sister, said that she is proud of Cheyenne for her hardworking and humble spirit.

“She has a true desire to see the city of Texarkana flourish,” Becki said. “She’s honest and dedicated to doing things right, even when it’s difficult and time-consuming. I know she’s thrilled to see her vision come to life, and I can’t wait to see her continue to succeed.”

Paddle TXK can be found at Bringle Lake Park West on University Avenue by Texas A&M-Texarkana. As of July 4th, 2023, they are open for rentals from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday through Saturday, from May to September. Visit the Paddle TXK Facebook page for more information.

photos by LAUREN SIMMONS

Cheyenne along with her daughters Delilah, 9, and Aurora, 11, at Bringle Lake for some fun in the sun.

Cheyenne chose these Jackson Riviera kayaks because they have the highest weight limit, they are high quality, and she loved the fun color for visibility and good times!

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

The Texarkana College Foundation recently announced the establishment of an endowed scholarship in honor of retired music instructor Mary Scott Smith. Smith was a key member of the Texarkana College faculty, teaching piano and music appreciation for many years. She also founded the TC Music Series and accompanies the Texarkana Regional Chorale, leaving a lasting impact on the music program and the many students she taught.

The scholarship was made possible through the generous donations of 42 supporters who helped raise $25,000 towards the scholarship fund. The scholarships will be awarded to outstanding music students, continuing Mary Scott Smith’s legacy of inspiring and empowering future generations of musicians.

“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support from our community, and we are thrilled to be able to honor Mary Scott Smith in this meaningful way,” said Dr. Jason Smith, President of Texarkana College. “This scholarship will provide invaluable opportunities for our music students, and we look forward to awarding the first scholarships in Mary Scott Smith’s name next year.”

ONE MAN’S TREASURE

For

Kenny Zachry,

junking is a way of life

by KATIE STONE

It is often said, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” That is exactly the case for Kenneth “Kenny” Zachry, junk-collector hobbyist.

Kenny has worked at Red River Army Depot in heavy equipment for about 10 years, but his hobby of collecting other people’s junk started when he was a young boy with a small collection of soda pop bottles. These days, he typically picks up larger unwanted items, such as furniture, refrigerators, washers, dryers, and other appliances. Through word-of-mouth, people all over the area call Kenny to take their junk, which he does for free. He hauls his loot to his property in Hooks, Texas, where he disassembles the items into parts. From the metal to the wires, almost everything is salvaged for other projects. He hauls the excess metal to Texarkana and sells it to TriState Iron & Metal.

Kenny has used salvaged materials in a variety of building projects, including an observation deck, a saloon and shooting range, and a river deck that hung over the Red River.

While he has picked up a variety of neat items over the years, including an antique roll-top desk that stands out in his mind, he believes his biggest junking “score” is that of two doctorate degrees.

“When my son [Curtis] was about six or seven years old, he asked me to buy him a baseball glove,” Kenny recounted. “I told him I would and to

photos by LAUREN SIMMONS

Junking is like therapy to me. It gets me out and about and gets my mind off of things, especially what we have been through the last 10 months.

grab a five-gallon bucket. He asked me where we were going, and I said that we were going to walk down Pleasant Grove Road and pick up empty cans. Once we got enough empty cans, we could cash them in and get enough money to buy him a glove.” On their walk, they passed a few of his son’s friends, and his son asked why those kids didn’t have to pick up cans. Kenny answered with, “Well, son, their dad is a doctor. He studied and did good in school. I was a class clown. So, I guess you have your choice on what you want to become.”

From that point on, Curtis made straight A’s. Kenny and his wife, Tonia, heaped on the praise, knowing that their younger child, Lexi, was paying attention. She followed in her big brother’s footsteps. Curtis is now an optometrist, and Lexi is in CRNA school.

Though the payoff he receives in cash and free materials is great,

photos by LAUREN SIMMONS

“junking” is a reward in and of itself for Kenny. He has always enjoyed taking things apart and tinkering with them, he said, and he likes staying active.

“Junking is like therapy to me,” he said. “It gets me out and about and gets my mind off of things, especially what we have been through the last 10 months,” said Kenny.

Tonia was diagnosed with cancer last year.

“When I met my wife, I knew she was perfect,” Kenny said. “Then I took her on a date, and I knew I had a winner when she ordered the chicken fried steak with gravy. I knew right then she was going to be my wife.” They married in 1992.

“The extra money I make helps with trips we take to Houston to MD Anderson for her checkups every three months,” he said. “No matter what it takes, I will continue to be there for my wife, even if I have to pick up refrigerators for the rest of my life.”

Junking is both a hobby and a source of extra income, but it is more than that for Kenny, who finds that he hours he spends collecting other people’s trash can be times of deep spiritual connection.

“God has been good to me, my wife, and our family,” he said. “I do not take one day for granted. I find pleasure in riding around, meeting new people, and listening to God’s plans for us. He always reminds me of how blessed we are.”

For more information about Kenny’s pick-up services, call or text him at 903-278-5491.

Kenny with his daughter Lexi.

Kenny with his wife Tonia.

HAVING A BALL

by LISA PORTERFIELD THOMPSON

On July 8th, 2023, at the Texarkana Country Club, hundreds of Texarkanans will be celebrating at the party of all parties, complete with an elaborate cake, a champagne toast, fresh flowers, and beautiful gowns. Guests will be entertained by the Texarkana Jazz Orchestra, and dancing will be encouraged. Drinks will be flowing, and gourmet bites (prepared by local chef Pam Elliot) will abound.

While such a soirée is generally reserved for a wedding celebration or perhaps a golden anniversary, this event will be a birthday party for our beloved city, and all are invited.

Hosted by the TXK 150 committee, the Texarkana Sesquicentennial Commemorative Ball will be held at 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 8th. A maximum of 275 tickets are being sold, with each priced at $75.

Keith Beason, co-chairman of the TXK 150 committee, said that

the ball is one opportunity of many for Texarkanans to celebrate Texarkana’s founding, history, and future.

“We’ve had several events throughout the year—some casual, some historic, and some lowkey—but we really wanted to take the time in July to do something a little more classy,” he explained. He noted that the opening of the 1973 centennial time capsule, which occurred in April, drew a large crowd and piqued public interest not only in what items Texarkanans chose to represent the town but also in how the community celebrated the centennial all year long. “Now it’s our

TXK 150 committee throws Commemorative Ball

The Texarkana Jazz Orchestra will be performing music, encouraging everyone to dance!

turn to create the history that people 50 years from now, 100 years from now, will be interested in learning about,” Keith said.

Artists David Freeman, Jes Weiner, and Brody Fincher will be painting live at the event, capturing party scenes. Their works will be auctioned off at the end of the night. “I’m excited to see what these local artists come up with,” Keith said. “It will be a really fun opportunity to watch them create art in front of a crowd.”

Additionally, artist Tyler S. Arnold will be debuting limited prints of his piece “Sesquicentennial Bison.” The painting appropriately features a splendid buffalo straddling State Line Avenue in front of the United States Post Office and Courthouse. The original piece is large and awe-inspiring, measuring four feet by six feet. It was recently purchased by the Texarkana Arts & Historic District committee, with plans for it to hang in the conference room in the renovated Grim Hotel Lofts.

“There will only be 150 printed, and I expect them all to sell at the ball,” Keith said.

The TXK 150 committee knew the 2023 celebration would be incomplete without visual art. “Art plays such a big role in Texarkana’s culture, so we thought it was appropriate to feature local artists at this event,” Keith said.

The dress code for the occasion is summer formal, which, according to party planners, means the goal is to appear formal while also surviving the heat of July. Formal attire crafted from lighter fabrics such as linen is suggested. As the party is themed with a patriotic touch, red, white, and blue will abound. Guests are encouraged to dress accordingly.

To purchase tickets for the ball, please visit tinyurl.com/TXK150-ball

The Texarkana Sesquicentennial Commemorative Ball will be held at the Texarkana Country Club.

A RAZORBACK THROUGH & THROUGH

by LINDSEY M c MILLAN

Dance educator Megan Brown returned to her roots

photo by SHANE DARBY

Megan Brown is busy mom, wife, teacher, and coach. She is the Arkansas High School cheer coach and teaches creative movement for kindergarten through fifth grade at North Heights Community School. In addition, she is an instructor at Joni’s Gymnastics & Dance. Contributing to the dance and cheer culture of Texarkana is important to Megan because it is this culture that raised her.

Megan was born in Del Rio, Texas, but she grew up in Texarkana and completed her schooling through the Texarkana Arkansas School District. At age six, she began dancing at Joni’s. In sixth grade, she began dancing competitively, as well as cheering with the Cheer Elite All Stars. She was a strong competitor, earning a variety of statewide and nationwide awards throughout her youth. At Arkansas High, she served as captain of the cheer team.

Individually, Megan traveled throughout the country to enroll in various conventions and masterclasses led by well-known instructors; these experiences led to her earning scholarships for her skills. As a teenager, she participated in intensive summer programs in New York City and even performed at Radio City Music Hall. At 18, she traveled to Memphis, Tennessee, to audition for So You Think You Can Dance.

A Razorback through and through, Megan graduated from the University of Arkansas, where she received a Bachelor of Science in Health Science. While a student there, she was a three-year member of the Pom Squad, the Razorback dance team. She also served as the choreographer for the dance team’s hip-hop routine, which they took to national competition. During her collegiate summers, Megan worked as a National Cheer Association instructor.

Callin’ the Hogs from day one, Megan now uses what she learned through her career cheering and instructing to teach a new crop of students.

After college, she returned to Texarkana to be the Texas Middle School cheer coach. After two years, she returned to her TASD home. She taught at College Hill Middle School and Trice Elementary before stepping into her current roles as teacher at North Heights and head cheer coach at Arkansas High School.

“I love to watch students grow into who they want to be,” Megan said in an interview produced for the district. “I get to see them figure out their passions, talents, and strengths right before my eyes. As an elementary teacher, but a high school coach, I get to see them at different stages in their lives. It’s so rewarding to know they are just as excited to tell you about their accomplishments in high school as they are in elementary school.”

A lifelong Arkansan, Megan’s roots are Razorback red.

During the NCA Cheer Camp, the AHS cheer squad received three blue superior ribbons during their evaluations throughout camp. AHS then competed in the Game Day Cheer and Band Chant divisions against other schools from around the state in the final day competitions. The varsity team received first place in Game Day Cheer and first place in Band Chant. They were also voted Overall Most Spirited Team. Other awards include Bid to NCA Nationals, Stunt Safe Award, Technical Excellence in Motions, and Early Evaluation Herkie Team Award. Thirteen members were nominated to try out for the All-American Team. The following nine members were named NCA All-American Cheerleaders: Makayli Harvey, Kynlee Garrett, Jackson Davis, Aniyah Black, Skii Williams, Asaya Lott, Jayla Woodberry, Lainey Brooks, and Addison Girley. Two senior members, Jackson Davis and Kynlee Garrett, were both selected to try out for NCA staff positions following graduation.

Megan also works at Joni’s as both the head of competitive dance and as a coach for the Cheer Elite All Stars. She takes students all over the country for competitions and camps, coaching young dancers and cheerleaders to victory at both the state and national levels.

Though she would love to lead the Arkansas High cheer team to a state championship, Megan’s true goal is to be a role model and mentor for her students. She strives to help them learn skills beyond those demonstrated on the gym floor or competition stage: accountability, professionalism, citizenship. When asked about her own role models, she cited three of her teachers-turned-colleagues: Joni Wright, Erica Couche, and Kathleen Bell.

Megan is married to Matt Brown, whom she dated throughout high school and college. They have two children, Sutton (7) and Manning (4). Their third child is due in October. Sutton is already involved in both dance and cheer, and she loves helping her mom with various jobs at the gym. Megan is currently pursuing a master’s degree in educational administration from Arkansas State University.

Megan and Matt Brown with their children, Manning (4) and Sutton (7).

EXQUISITE INTERIORS

HISTORIC URBAN LIVING

This stately, red-brick home, located in Historic Texarkana, Arkansas, was built in 1900 by William E. Kuhl, the Texarkana city clerk, and his wife, Sadie. The house’s current residents are its third set of owners.

Nestled behind huge oak trees with ferns on every branch, this exquisite house sits on a corner lot atop a hill. Expansive porches invite guests to visit and rest in rocking chairs with a glasses of tea. Ready for the Fourth of July, the homeowners have decorated the front with American flags and patriotic buntings. Their rescue dog, Hoss, also in celebratory style, greets visitors, while also guarding the premises.

The current owners are serious about the importance of investing in older properties, and they have renovated others in the past. On this 123-year-old home, they spent nine months restoring and remodeling, which needed new electrical wiring, plumbing, plaster, and stucco, as well as a new roof and balcony. It was important to them that they conserve as many of the original elements as possible while making necessary upgrades.

“Our love for restoring is pretty simple: history is important,” said the current owner. “[When you have an] irreplaceable home or piece of art, you must preserve it. If we [as a society] don’t start preserving, we will lose some of our history. [My spouse and I] are only two people, but, as we all know, a movement starts with one person.”

Thankfully, the past owners of the house always took great care of the property. Throughout the home, original hardwood floors, wood windows, crystal and porcelain door knobs, and skeleton-key door locks create cohesiveness and retain character accrued over the last 123 years.

The kitchen, a black and white masterpiece, is the only room in the house that was truly remodeled.

“In the kitchen, we completely rearranged the footprint,” the owner said.

The floating shelves were added in order to imbue the space with an open, spacious feel. The raven-black countertops are Cambria-engineered quartz. The space is equipped with FORNO Italian appliances, including an eight-burner gas stove (complete with a brass pot filler) and two ovens. Concealed under the counter are both an ice maker and a microwave. While the kitchen is undoubtedly a modern masterpiece, it retains the original 1900 floor tile, as well as the double-drain sink.

The primary suite, like all of the bedrooms, is huge. A bath ensuite of black and white, with an original bathtub and original tile floors, provides plenty of space for the homeowners.

A pedestal sink, also original to the home, works perfectly in the upstairs bath, too.

The landing in the top floor opens up to an upstairs balcony, and the homeowner enjoys having her morning coffee and devotional in her chair there, with all of the natural light pouring in.

“What I love most are the arches in the foyer, all the natural light, the upstairs landing, and the hardwood floors,” she said.

The third bedroom suite serves as a home away from home for the owners’ grandchild. A family treasure—a World War II trunk of a grandfather—serves as a toy chest for their grandson. This is just one of many antique pieces that can be found throughout the home.

Throughout the spacious living areas, there are decorator-furniture pieces that have been expertly curated with beautiful rugs, paintings, and mirrors. While some might look at the grand, two-story home and think “traditional,” the owner says that she likes to find special pieces and bring them together in her home.

“I enjoy marrying vintage with contemporary and mid-century,” the owner said. Her style, which she described as eclectic, is about much more than aesthetic preferences. “I try to purchase some piece of art or an item on each road trip or adventure we go on. My youngest daughter’s childhood art adorns almost every room of our home. I like to go into every room and see something that brings back a happy memory.”

TWICE AS NICE and

PERFECTLY RIPE

Texarkana USA boasts two farmers’ markets, which meet the varied needs of local shoppers

by ELLEN ORR

The Gateway Farmers’ Market, located on Jefferson Avenue in Texarkana, Arkansas, operates under a simple ethos: “If we did not grow it, we will not sell it.” All produce sold at Gateway was grown within a 75-mile radius of the market, which has been operational for over 25 years. Open each Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 7 a.m. to noon, May through September, the market is a colorful scene, with vendors selling leafy greens, juicy tomatoes, sweet stone fruits, Asian veggies, herbs, and so much more. In addition to produce, fresh-cut flowers, local honey, local meats, baked goods, pickles, preservers, and even artisan coffee beans are often available for purchase.

In addition to the vibrant goods being sold, Gateway is also home to a new mural, designed and painted by local artist Tina Brown Shearman. Perfect for family selfies, the mural adds to Gateway’s vibe as a community hub, where Texarkana residents meet not only other residents but also the very people who planted, grew, picked, and prepared the food that feeds our community.

One step across the State Line exists the Texarkana Farmers’ Market. Open each Saturday morning in May, June, and July, this downtown market sits in a picturesque spot, between the oft-photographed Federal Courthouse and Post Office and the regal St. James Episcopal Church. Though select produce—often heirloom and organic—is available, frequenters of the Texas-side market are often searching for products like ethically raised meats, cage-free chicken and duck eggs, loaves of sourdough, hand-crafted granola, personal-care products, and crafts.

The Texarkana Farmers’ Market is dog-friendly and regularly caters to children, setting up a kids’ play area in the center of the market for parental peace-of-mind. The folks from Fairy Tale Garden and Farm regularly host Story Hour and Craft Time at 9 a.m. On occasion, instructors from Texarkana Yoga lead free beginner-friendly flows, open to the public. On the third Saturday evening of each summer month, the pop-up Night Market provides locals the chance to buy and sell handmade art and crafts.

While the Texas market’s season is shorter than that of Gateway, they do offer CSA (community-supported agriculture) boxes in the fall. TXK Market Boxes can be purchased online, beginning in August.

Both markets frequently feature local musical acts, which goes a long way toward turning a Saturday-morning food haul into a memorable summertime event for the whole family.

Both markets maintain thriving Facebook pages; check them out for up-to-date information on events, weekly offerings, and more.

ASK THE EXPERTS

D esiree D e D e J efferson Director of Marketing, MRC Cornerstone Retirement Community

Independent Living VS Assisted Living

Both independent and assisted living communities provide a low-maintenance lifestyle, surrounded by gorgeous amenities, wellness resources, and welcoming neighbors, all of which can increase quality of life.

Independent living is for active seniors who are looking for a retirement community where they can still live on their own but would like to reduce the effects of boredom and isolation, as well as the stress and worry of home maintenance. These residents don’t usually need help with daily activities.

Assisted living offers all the same comforts and benefits with an additional level of care that can offer support with bathing, dressing, or medication assistance.

903-417-0326 | 4100 Moores Lane

Texarkana, TX | mrccornerstone.org

B rett B rzeski Investment Advisor, Mustard Seed Wealth Management

I am in a high-income tax bracket, and my CPA has mentioned that the gains in my brokerage account are a significant source of my tax liability. Is there anything I can do to minimize the tax on this account?

There may be several options to manage this account for tax efficiency while still realizing growth. Here is one example: consider holding securities that are taxed at ordinary income tax rates inside your retirement account while placing securities that have qualified dividends or limited realized gains inside the brokerage account. Most qualified dividends are taxed at capital gains rates which should be less than the ordinary tax rate for highincome earners with limited deductions.

903-716-8414 | 3304 Richmond Rd

Texarkana, TX | msfwm.com

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

ENCOMPASS HEALTH REHABILITATION HOSPITAL OF TEXARKANA HELD ITS ANNUAL STROKE REUNION ON THURSDAY, MAY 26TH.

Dr. Mark Wren, Todd Wallace, and Dr. Khalid Malik

Laura Spencer

Willie May Arnold and Gina Cheek

Sarah Robinson and Sonia Hawkins

Amanda McGuire and Sherri Rogers

Tiffannee Watson and Billie Pritchett

Cyndi Young and Kathy Finley

LIVING THE LIFE THEY COULD NEVER HAVE

Harvard-bound Stephanie Nguyen honors the sacrifices made by her mother and late father

by REESE LANGDON

photo by CHLOE SANDERS

“Irun my household,” she stated. This is an uncommon phrase for a teenager, but it is the reality of Pleasant Grove’s class of 2023 valedictorian, Stephanie Nguyen. Stephanie is decorated with several academic achievements, honors, leadership positions, volunteer hours, internships, and a plethora of other commitments, but her greatest responsibility of all is found within her own home.

“My dad passed away last year, and my mom does not speak English very well and works all day,” Stephanie stated. “I have to do all of the translating from Vietnamese to English for my mom, grocery shopping, financial responsibilities, making the doctor appointments and phone calls, paying the bills, filing taxes, etc.”

Her father’s passing sent her world spinning out of control. This devastating loss turned everything she had known upside down. Stephanie had to take on all of his jobs in the family, all while mourning the loss of her greatest role model.

“He had always been there for me—ever since preschool,” Stephanie recalled about her loving father. “He gave me the life that he never had, and he is the reason why I am the person I am today.” Stephanie will forever cherish many memories with her dad and will always remember the many life lessons she picked up from him along the way.

“He taught me to be humble with my achievements and move on from people or situations that bother me,” Steaphanie said. “He taught me a lot of skills. He also let me learn things by myself—either the hard or easy way—and

Johnathan Nguyen, Diana Nguyen, Stephanie Nguyen, Le Nguyen, and Steven Nguyen.

The opportunity to go to Harvard is extremely special and important to me because I feel like I have finally made it and all of my hard work has paid off.

photo by CHLOE SANDERS

then gave me tips to improve on whatever I’m doing like schoolwork or learning a new skill like baking.”

Their bond explains why Stephanie’s hardest challenge in life has been the passing of her father and the new role she had to fill while grieving and maintaining outstanding academic performance. Along with these challenges, there was another new obstacle that she had to conquer.

“[With the passing of my dad] I also experienced a lot of social anxiety and general anxiety that I never really had before,” Stephanie said. “It’s been hard to get myself outside of my comfort zone and try things just to try them, even if I may not continue it. I was online during my sophomore year, and I faced a lot of loneliness, too.”

Following her dad’s example, Stephanie persevered.

“I definitely overcame [the reluctance to try new things] my senior year since I was involved in a lot more activities at school,” Stephanie expressed. “I learned that joining clubs or activities that I’m interested in will lead me to the right people, and I plan to continue doing that in college.”

Stephanie will be taking this newfound confidence and boldness to not just any college; Stephanie will be attending Harvard University this fall. Months after losing her biggest supporter, she applied and was accepted to multiple universities with high standards, and she excitedly chose Harvard, with plans to go to Harvard Medical School to specialize in forensic pathology once she is done with undergraduate studies.

“The opportunity to go to Harvard is extremely special and important to me because I feel like I have finally made it and all of my hard work has paid off,” Stephanie expressed. “I had a lot of anxiety and doubt with my application, and being accepted to Harvard and other highly-ranked schools has given me so much relief. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to obtain so many wonderful connections with people who have made great impacts in their communities. I am genuinely excited to learn from so many people who are experts in certain niche talents like rowing, debate, cooking, and more.”

For Stephanie, the opportunity to attend Harvard represents much more than an individual accomplishment.

“It’s not just a personal achievement, but a family one too,” she said humbly. “My parents never went to college because of the Vietnam War, so going to a prestigious school like Harvard and working my way from the bottom to the top is extremely rewarding. While I’m proud of myself for making it, I also want my parents to feel proud of me too. Both my mom and dad have worked very hard to integrate in America, and they have given me the life that they could never have. Now that I’m going to Harvard, I feel like I have made all of their hard work worth it.”

Stephanie’s story is a testimony to the notion that diligence and dedication will be rewarded in the end. Many people relate to feelings of loss and loneliness, but few overcome this pain with the spirit and achievements that Stephanie carries.

“These challenges have helped become more vigilant and more confident in myself,” Stephanie said. “I’ve had to learn many things the hard and long way, and I still learn things the hard way. I’ve had to learn how to speak up for myself.”

THE 2023 LEADERSHIP TEXARKANA GRADUATES

Forty-five Texarkana-area residents were recently honored for completing the year-long Leadership Texarkana community leadership program, offered by the nonprofit organization Leadership Texarkana (LT).

Through their involvement in Leadership Texarkana sessions over the past year, the participants in the program deepened their understanding of the leadership required to lead in our community, as well as the challenges and opportunities specific to Texarkana regarding economic development; healthcare; government and courts; quality-of-life initiatives; public and higher education; media; and the private, public, and non-profit sectors. They were also challenged to develop and articulate individual plans for taking active service and leadership roles in the community, and to be active agents for bringing together natural partners for progress in Texarkana.

“Every year, we have the privilege of working closely with another new and outstanding group of individuals who commit the time and effort to participate because they want to make a difference,” said Leadership Texarkana Executive Director Ruth Ellen Whitt. “They [complete the program] knowing that Texarkana USA is indeed the community of excellence we say it is, with citizens committed to working together for the excellence we all desire. Their leadership journeys are their own from the beginning; they make of the LT experience what they desire, and we see so much impact coming from this group. Given their current status and their statements of leadership intent going forward, we are excited for each of them and for all of Texarkana.”

TJ Anderson Division Chief, Inventory Management Red River Army Depot

Gaye Beard

Constituent Services Representative US House of Representatives

Holly Carver County Coordinator The CALL Miller Co

Brianna Baird Treasury Management Specialist State Bank

Cadesha Benson Whitaker Head Start Program Director Little Bitty City Enrichment Center

Natalie Copeland Operations Officer Bodcaw Bank

Kennedi Baird Director of Marketing Lone Star Truck Group

Mac Carrell Assistant Vice President/ Branch Manager Regions Bank

Wesley Cowling Collection Manager TEXAR

Dalton Crabtree Branch Coordinator/Officer Texana Bank

Kyndel Griffith Chief Nursing Officer Txk Emergency Center & Hospital

Kaitlyn Harris Account Representative Brandon Lloyd State Farm

Brad Crayne Attorney Ross and Shoalmire

Karen Hammonds Broker and Owner of Record Next Home Realty Advisors

William Harris Assistant Principal Texas High School

Catraka Davis Management Analyst Red River Army Depot

Ocie D. Hanes Assistant Principal Texas Middle School

Tyrhonda Henderson Acting City Manager and Finance Director City of Texarkana, Arkansas

Christina Huntze HR Director Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital

Amber Keith Advisor / Marketing Specialist NETX Small Business Development Center

Teara Lindholm Business Engagement Representative Arkansas Rehab Service

Joseph J. Johnson Chief of Staff Red River Army Depot

Kasey Lewis Location Manager Guaranty Bank & Trust

Terry W. Martin Deputy Director of Production Red River Army Depot

Bobby D. Jordan Assistant Chief City of Texarkana, Arkansas

Venus Lillis Director of Advising Texas A&M University - Texarkana

Bryan McDonald Principal Fairview Elementary School

Daniel Neely Manager of Finance CHRISTUS St. Michael Health

Sherri Penix Deputy Superintendent Texarkana ISD

Madeleine Russell Coordinator of Communication and Engagement Texarkana College

Charles Pankey General Manager Robbins Toyota

Kristina Rivas-Jones 100 Families Coordinator Literacy Council

Audrey Shumate Principal Redwater Intermediate School

Gina Parish Director of Marketing Temple Memorial Pediatric Center

Stephen Robbins Inpatient Unit Manager Hospice of Texarkana

Jonathan Shumate Regional Vice President Farm Credit of Western Arkansas

Jacquelyn H. Smith Assistant Principal Nash Elementary School

Jennifer L. Unger Executive Director Texarkana Regional Arts and Humanities Council

Clayton Wisdom Senior Vice President and Relationship Officer State Bank

Katherine R. Stone Market Manager Julie’s Deli & Market

Sandra R. Warren Program Manager AR Single Parent Scholarships

Allison Wright Realtor Better Homes & Garden Real Estate Infinity

Justin Swecker Commercial Loan Officer Farmers Bank

Sydney Wicks Realtor

Better Homes & Garden Real Estate Infinity

Holly Zacharias

Client Service Account Representative SWEPCO

HISTORY HAPPENS...

by VELVET HALL COOL

History happens at various tempos. Some events are instantly recognizable as monumental and worthy of being jotted down on calendars for future generations to remember. Many of these we recognize instantly: the 4th of July from the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the signing of the Treaty of Versailles to end World War I, the attack on Pearl Harbor beginning America’s formal involvement in WWII, the Space Shuttle Challenger explosion seconds into flight, and the 9-11 attacks on the Twin Towers in New York City were all events of great enough magnitude to mark time long into the future.

Other portions of our history move at a slower pace. Sometimes, it just takes our society a bit of time to appreciate or recognize the lasting impact that events, actions, or ideas may have. Other times, snippets of history are intentionally slowed because their consequences are not popular or valued during the moment. Our calendars are full of memorials, remembrances, and celebrations that have taken time to be seen as worthy: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Juneteenth, and Indigenous Peoples’ Day are a few.

Assassinated in 1968 during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was honored in 1983 when President Ronald Reagan

signed legislation creating MLK Jr. Day. However, it was not fully recognized as a federal holiday until 1986, and not adopted by all states until 2000—32 years after Dr. King’s life was cut short in Memphis, Tennessee.

Although Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in September of 1862, it would not take effect until January of 1863. It would then take another two and a half years for the news to reach all of those meant to be freed by Lincoln’s proclamation, which only applied to those enslaved in states within the confederacy. On June 19, 1865, federal troops finally reached Galveston, Texas, to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation. Black Americans celebrate this day on June 19th, or Juneteenth.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day is another example of how history can begin in one fashion and, through education, become something different. Originally known as Columbus Day, this date in October celebrated the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas in 1492. Columbus Day was first celebrated in 1972 and named a federal holiday in 1977. However, Indigenous activists objected to the holiday, on the grounds that Columbus was a colonizer who enacted heinous acts against the native people he encountered. Further, celebrating the “discovery” of the Americas acts to erase the generations of people who have lived on this land for much longer than the last 531 years of European settlement. The federal holiday was renamed in 2019 to Indigenous Peoples’ Day to more closely reflect the improved values of our society. How-

ever, this renaming has yet to receive congressional approval to make it permanent. There is still work to be done.

In July, Texarkana will have the opportunity to celebrate aspects of history that were both instantly recognizable as well as moments that were years in the making. We will honor the instantly monumental Declaration of Independence of our nation on the Fourth of July. Later in the month, we will toast to 150 years of progress and growth of our city at the Sesquicentennial Ball. We will celebrate the lasting impact that the founding of our city—on December 8, 1873—has made on our thriving, vibrant communities. Read more about the ball on page 34, and get your ticket today; be a part of history as it happens!

Velvet Hall Cool is the Immediate Past President of the Texarkana Museums System and former President of the Miller & Bowie County Literacy Council. She enjoys attempting to bring history to life and to a personal level for our readers. She enjoys collecting artists of all types into her Village of Friends. She once felt like an outsider among her musical and painting friends until she realized words strung together on paper can create beautiful art as well.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

THE DRIVE OUT HUNGER GOLF TOURNAMENT BENEFITING HARVEST REGIONAL FOOD BANK WAS HELD AT NORTHRIDGE COUNTRY CLUB ON MONDAY, MAY 22ND

Tyler Ashley, Sean Romero, Taryn Ashley, and Colton Brown

Allen Brown, Jim Murry, Sonny Brainerd and David Hickerson

Tommy and Camille Wrinkle

Seth Hopkins, Byron Stewart, Josh Kurtz, and Kip Webb

Aaron Johnson, Greg Giles, Tommy Wrinkle, and Kevin Cline

Addi Roberts, Brittany Borah, and Sydnie Miller

Douglas Dietz, Camille Wrinkle, Erickah Mathis, Michael Collins, and Callie Buckley

Buck Buchanan and Michael Hawkins,with (in front) Buck Hawkins and Harlow Hawkins

Buck Buchanan, John May, Mike Ward, and Chase Beebe

Ray Sandefur, Cole Moody, Cole Riddell, and Andrew McElhany

Russell Sparks, Bart Vance, Mark Luckett, and Jim Moser

Scott Covington, Warren McDaniel, Jason Ross, and Jason Williams

JULY 2023

JULY 1

The Vault: Visiting Vendors Event

The Vault Boutique will host its first monthly Visiting Visitors event from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Vendors indoors and outdoors will be selling handcrafted, artisan products. This event will occur the first Saturday of each month, on the circle in Wake Village (next to Domino’s Pizza).

JULY 4

Patriotic Paint by the Pool

Celebrate the Fourth at Sportsplex Health & Fitness Club at 11 a.m. to paint patriotic canvases by the pool, all supplies provided. Hang around afterward for the cornhole tournament. Members will receive free entrance, while non-members will be charged a nominal fee. For more information, contact Ali Burrow at ali.burrow@hcesportsplex.com.

JULY 5

Story Time at the Texarkana Public Library

Listen to a new story at 10 a.m. every week at the Texarkana Public Library.

JULY 7

Juried Exhibition Opens at TRAHC

TRAHC will host its 35th Annual Juried Exhibition. This exhibition will consist of artwork in multiple mediums. Artists ranging from local to international will be represented. The exhibition will start July 7th at 10 a.m. and end September 1st at 4 p.m.

JULY 8

Sesquicentennial Ball

The TXK 150 Commemorative Ball will be held at the Texarkana Country Club. Event begins at 7 p.m. Only 275 tickets will be sold at a price of $75 each. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Lisa Thompson for more information at 903-244-5591. Read more about the ball on page 34.

JULY 10–15

Texarkana Children Charities Open

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 at mvanherpen@ledwell.com.

JULY 11–JULY 13

ArtWall Camp, Session 1

At TRAHC’s Art Wall Camp, students grades 1–6 will create art and display it on the walls next to the Regional Arts Center. ArtWall Camp will be located in the downstairs studio of the TRAHC building downtown. Scholarships are available. For more information, call 903-792-8681 or email artsinfo@trahc.org.

JULY 11

Singo for a Cause

Join the Junior League of Texarkana and Friends for a Cause Foundation at Redbone at 6 p.m. for a night of musical bingo! The cost is $40 per person for four games. All ages are welcome. The proceeds will benefit the 2022–2023 Junior League Provisional Class Project to update/renovate the Child Protective Services “Rainbow Room” and visitation rooms.

JULY 14

Downtown Live!

Watch artistry in action on Broad Street on the second Friday of each month, from 6 to 9 p.m. Plus, enjoy food, drinks, and desserts by your favorite downtown restaurants.

JULY 25–JULY 27

ArtWall Camp, Session 2

At TRAHC’s Art Wall Camp, students grades 1–6 will create art and display it on the walls next to the Regional Arts Center.

ArtWall Camp will be located in the downstairs studio of the TRAHC building downtown. Scholarships are available. For more information, call 903-792-8681 or email artsinfo@trahc.org.

JULY 31

TXK 150 T-Shirt Contest Deadline

The TXK 150 committee is calling for creative minds to design a t-shirt for the city’s sesquicentennial! Submissions will be judged on creativity and relevance to the theme. The top three designs will go through public voting on goTXK.org. In addition to having their design featured on the official sesquicentennial shirts, the winner will also be presented with an award. Designs should be uploaded at goTXK.org. Email keith.beason@txkusa.org for more information.

THE FRIENDS’ LIST

Each month, Four States Living chooses two people who have “liked” our Facebook page to be featured in The Friends’ List. Chosen randomly, these two “friends” answered questions so our readers can get to know them better.

DARLENE ANNETTE TAYLOR

Age: 53

Occupation: Street Artist and Muralist

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

MARK L. BLEDSOE

Age: 59

Occupation: United Way President/CEO

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

First get a lawyer. Delete all social media and disappear. Say, “What money?” Buy my oldest daughter and her husband a new home!

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

I sew historical costumes from vintage patterns. Boring, I know.

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

I would wish to help more people or be thin. Vain, I know.

At what business could you max out a credit card?

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

I’m always fact checking, googling, and reading a variety of subjects.

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

A cure for all terminal illnesses!

At what business could you max out a credit card?

Mine. It’s already at that point. Paint is expensive. Although I don’t have a Jeep yet (hopefully next year), ROUGH COUNTRY (For Jeep Accessories).

Choose a movie title for the story of your life.

“She Came. She Saw. She Painted.”

What are you currently watching on Netflix?

Vinland saga. And Arcane. I love anime.

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

Choose a movie title for the story of your life.

“Enjoying EVERY Moment!”

What are you currently watching on Netflix?

Anything on travel.

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

Well, I’ve hit all of my places already. Italy is next.

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

“THE FUN ISSUE” WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FUN THING TO DO?

I’ve been lucky to see a lot of the world: China, Ireland, Spain, Italy, France, Croatia, Slovenia, Morroco, Peru, Austrailia, New Zealand, Russia, Egypt, Switzerland, and 20 other countries on six continents. Villa Rufolo, Ravello, Italy is on my wish list. Facebook, Mail, Messenger. Still boring. I know.

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

I don’t sport. I used to watch hockey and it was the Dallas Stars.

I’m a Renaissance Musketeer for Faires.

Camping, fishing, hunting, photography, watching granddaughter Marlee play tennis! ANYTHING Outdoors!!

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

Facebook, Photos, Safari Razorback Football

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