Four States Living Magazine August 2022

ON THE COVER - AUGUST 2022

After moving to Texarkana, Amber Adams enrolled in college at Texas A&M UniversityTexarkana to continue pursuing her degree. While there, she was introduced to the BAAS program, set up a meeting with Dr. Lisa Myers, program director, and knew without a doubt after talking to her that this program was a perfect fit for her. Amber graduated in 2020 and thanks the TAMUT faculty for being so supportive, welcoming, and genuinely caring during her time there.

See “A Diamond in a Rhinestone World” on page 8.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INSIDE : RUNNING THEIR OWN RACE

Homeschooling their three children, going on adventures in their skoolie, and watching their kids play sports keeps Crystal and Jake Casteel busy and engaged. See article on page 60.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

Scene About Town

25, 49, 56, 69, 73

The way I see it ...

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Robin Rogers, Ed.D.

I bet you remember many of the teachers who shaped you in your youth. There are many teachers I loved from my years at Pleasant Grove, Texarkana College, TAMUT, and The University of Texas-Austin. A handful of great English teachers are the reason I pursued degrees in English and Education. I wanted to be more like them and teach. Years later, as I taught writing composition to college students who were about to graduate but put off the required junior level writing course until their final semester, I remembered the way my favorite teachers inspired me to love the written word.

Every semester, I asked students if they told stories to their friends, to their children, or to their coworkers. They all answered affirmatively. We tell stories regularly. On the first day of class, I asked them to tell me how they got their names. Not all had a good story about their names, but most did. My favorite was a lady who told me that her name was Brandy, and her sister’s name was Gin; their parents claimed that neither child would have been born if it wasn’t for two crazy nights of drinking. With their first daughter, gin was the culprit, and the second daughter came about because of too much brandy. Think about where your name came from. I was named after two of my aunts (Robin), and my middle name, Anne, is from Queen Anne’s Lace, a weed that produces a white flower and grows on the side of the roads; my mom loves that weed’s bloom.

Storytelling is how people entertained themselves before radio, television, and the internet. My mother-in-law used to say that her little brother would’ve never been born if her parents had television. I am for certain a sucker for stories.

As a child, my mom read chapter books aloud to me, as we sprawled out on the top of her bed. She would read a couple of chapters a day. I was mesmerized by the way she accentuated words for effect. We read Laura Ingalls Wilder books, Scott O’Dell, and Robert Louis Stevenson. My mom was the first English teacher who inspired me to love words. Over the years, I was awestruck by many

other English teachers who shared stories that took me to different cities, countries, and continents. Just understanding that there was a great world to be explored made me want to figure out how to see it all.

As I grew in my teaching, I used the reading aloud method in my college classes. As examples of good writing, instead of books, I used well-written papers from past composition students. Students were silent as I read, and I knew they truly enjoyed hearing the stories of other people. Writing should be real. It should be unique and carry the voice of the writer. And, it’s something that everyone can do. I believe that.

I can’t tell you how many people dreaded taking that last English class I taught for so many years. My job was to convince them that if they could tell a story, they could write it down. That was the hardest part of my job: making people believe in their own abilities.

Four St ates Living

INSPIRE THE PESSIMIST ELEVATE THE OPTIMIST STIR THE MIND ENTERTAIN THE SOUL

PUBLISHER

Dr. Robin Rogers

EDITOR

Suzy Turner

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Shane Darby

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Victoria Herman

FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHER

Shane Darby

EVENT PHOTOGRAPHER

Kierstyn Harris

When I write this August editorial every year, I always consider the impact that other teachers made on my life. The good teachers believed in the abilities of all students. They actually wrote notes on papers, they encouraged the shyest of kids, they slowed down the rowdiest, and they gave plenty of hugs for free to all. The best teachers taught because they loved seeing the lights come on when students realized that they could do things that they never imagined. I never had a good teacher say that they taught because they had a summer break. Because the good ones work all summer, too. Teachers. They are so important in our lives. They are underpaid for sure. Teachers choose their profession because they love education, and they love seeing “the lights turn on.” The future of our nation depends on our teachers. Please remember to thank them regularly. This month we focus on area success stories in education. Not everyone goes a traditional route, but Amber Adams (our lovely cover) is an example of someone who was determined to finish her degree at A&M-Texarkana. The best accomplishments are never easy, and an education is one success that you will always be proud of. There are so many great schools in our area, and most are represented in this issue. Read up on them; choosing the best fit for you or your children (if you have little ones) has never been more vital. Good luck to the parents, kids, teachers, and administrators who are headed back to school this month; may it be a great year! Hope you enjoy all we share, and as always, thanks for reading FSLM

FEATURED COLUMNISTS

Velvet Hall Cool

Nichole Holze

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lindsey McMillan

Vicki Melde

Roger Sheppard

Lisa Porterfield Thompson

Amber E. Willman

Do You Have a Story or a Photo?

Want to Advertise?

Advertising

A DIAMOND RHINESTONE WORLD

The challenges of Amber Adams’ 12-year journey to earn her bachelor’s degree made her shine a bit brighter

by VICKI MELDE

photo by SHANE DARBY in a

or some, pursuing higher education is almost a given … things just seem to fall into place. But for many, the dream of earning a college degree seems out of reach and barriers preclude making the dream a reality. Despite a keen mind and plenty of determination and drive, the puzzle pieces just don’t fall into place. This was certainly the case for Amber Adams – that is until she was introduced to a degree program at Texas A&M University-Texarkana that is designed for those whose path to earning a higher education credential has been filled with twists and turns.

Amber grew up in Dickinson, Texas – a neighboring town of Galveston – with two siblings: her twin sister, Summer, and younger sister, Rebecca. Growing up near the coast, they went to the beach a lot and surfed. “Most summers were spent with my grandparents who lived outside of Huntsville,” Amber recalled. “Life was good … dirt roads, tire swings, just easy living and love.”

Quite the extrovert, it is no surprise that Amber was involved in many activities while in high school – volleyball, tennis, marching band, summer musicals, and singing gigs. “For as long as I can remember, music has been a big part of my life, and it’s something I really enjoy,” Amber shared. “I also enjoyed learning and was in all AP (Advanced Placement) classes, but I was involved in a lot!” She participated in symphonic choir, symphonic band, honor society, PALS, and she started working at age 16.

After graduating high school in 2008, Amber and Summer started their first semester at a junior college while working fulltime. After one semester, they were not able to continue and took a year off but continued to work. “Summer and I worked at Kroger together,” she added. “That was fun!

“We went back to college in spring 2010,” Amber explained. “Summer chose to get her associate’s degree in General Studies and I chose an associate’s degree in Music. During that semester,

we lost our father. When reflecting on those times, it’s mostly a blur – but, somehow, we managed to go to class, work full-time, pay bills, and finally finished in fall 2011. My associate degree took longer to obtain due to life, lack of money, and loss. I should have known that was foreshadowing of what was to come.”

While working as an administrative assistant for MRC (Methodist Retirement Communities) Creekside in Huntsville, Amber was offered a promotion into sales and marketing … in Texarkana. “I was excited for the opportunity but had no clue where Texarkana was,” she admitted. “I moved within 30 days of the offer – just me, my cat, and my dog. I had no family or friends in Texarkana, but was excited for the new adventure.”

At first, Amber wasn’t sure she’d made a wise decision moving to Texarkana but she pushed through and became acclimated. When she moved, she was still actively pursuing her degree. “In 2019, I enrolled in college at Texas A&M University-Texarkana like I had done so many times before,” she shared. “I was studying Mass Communications and quickly came to the realization that, as a full-time worker, it was going to take forever to graduate. Dr. Drew Morton mentioned the BAAS (Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences) program to me, and I was intrigued, so I made an appointment to meet with Dr. Lisa Myers, BAAS program director.

“I was nervous to meet Dr. Myers because BAAS was a new idea for me,” Amber continued. “Like many times before, I was preparing to hear some variation of no. Instead, after meeting with her, Dr. Myers looked at all the earned credits I had accumulated, discussed my past work experience, and said, ‘You could be finished in a year and a half.’ I immediately started crying tears of joy!”

The future excites me, and I can see what it could be and can often get others to believe in it, too. “ ”

Bottom left: In 2013, Amber won the Walker County Fair Country Music Star contest. Although she didn’t even make it to the first round the previous year, she came back the next year and won the entire challenge ... proof to never give up on your goals.

Country and western music will always have a special place in Amber’s heart. She admits that she grew up thinking that her great-grandmother was Kitty Wells. This photo was taken during a gig outside of Houston in 2016.

While attending a ribbon cutting ceremony, Amber sported some silly glasses only to realize later that it was fitting to how she accepts the word “no” ... with a smile. She says that the word “no” is a part of life’s journey so she throws some bling on it, and rolls with it.

When asked about her favorite quote or words she lives by, Amber’s response described her well …

“It’s hard to be a diamond in a rhinestone world.”

– Dolly Parton

“Dolly has always been an idol of mine. Ever since I was a little girl, I was infatuated with her style, her talent, her charisma… and BIG hair! She has many wonderful quotes, but this one is my favorite. The way I see it, you can’t tell the difference between a diamond and a rhinestone. So, what does differentiate the two? I took this into my personal life as I realized there are things I need to do to stand out, to shine, and be of value. It took me 12 years to obtain my bachelor’s degree. I felt it would help me stand out. It was the hard days and long nights that made me shine a bit brighter. In a room full of rhinestones, I always want to be a diamond.”

Amber believed that decorating her graduation cap with a portrait of Dolly Parton was fitting to her and her journey: “It’s hard to be a diamond in a rhinestone world.”

Amber graduated from Texas A&M University-Texarkana in 2020 but, due to COVID, she actually walked in 2021.

What attracted Amber to the BAAS program was that it was intended for full-time workers as the courses were in the evening and online. The program takes school credits and life experiences and applies them toward earning a degree. Amber added, “Life experiences have taught me more than a textbook or lecture ever could, and that’s what makes BAAS amazing!”

As Dr. Myers stated, Amber indeed finished in a year and a half – graduating with the class of 2020 – all while working full-time in sales and marketing with MRC Cornerstone. “My experience in the BAAS program was wonderful,” Amber stated proudly. “I have always enjoyed learning and going to class. More so in the BAAS program because I was finally with students who had similar journeys and were serious about finishing. And, from day one, the faculty was so supportive, welcoming, and genuinely caring. I have dealt with several colleges along my journey as I moved and traveled for work, and A&MTexarkana surpasses them all!”

Life for Amber definitely changed for the better when she enrolled at A&MTexarkana. She now works as director of partner development with the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce. “I actively create relationships with business owners and staff, enhance retention of members, oversee the Chamber Ambassador group, and support the Greater Texarkana Young Professionals (GTYP).

“One of the greatest things about my job is it allows me to work with people from all walks of life,” Amber noted. “Plus, I get to inform people every day about the vision we have for the great city of Texarkana. Not only do I get a front row seat to the great things that are happening but, most importantly, what is to come!”

Amber’s outgoing and entertaining nature serve her well in her role with the Chamber. She loves new adventures, new challenges, and meeting new people. She describes herself as ‘futuristic.’ “For the longest time, I thought I was a day dreamer until CliftonStrengths provided me a better understanding of myself,” Amber admitted. “The future excites me, and I can see what it could be and can often get others to believe in it, too.”

Twins Summer and Amber celebrated their birthday with their father, David “D.A.” Adams, during 2010, a year before he passed away.

The majority of Amber’s childhood summers were spent outside of Huntsville, Texas, in a small community called Friday. Here, Summer (left) and Amber (right) were playing in the dirt while the farm pond was being dug out. << <<

One might wonder what enabled Amber to remain positive and stay the course of pursuing her degree despite encountering many obstacles. She was quick to credit the example her father provided her in the way he lived his life. “Dad was the life of the party and easy going. He worked hard, was very social, and never failed to celebrate the day. When he became ill, his attitude did not change. He laughed, he danced, and he was more concerned about me and my day than himself. A month before he passed, he said the doctors were confused by how he was in such good spirits given his diagnoses. He simply replied, ‘It’s hard to lay a bull down, doc.’ His response stuck with me and has given me the strength and determination I needed so many times in life. No matter how tough life gets, no matter how many bumps in the road, you can’t lay a bull down. The battle in life’s arena is always worth the fight.”

No doubt, Amber “fought” to earn her college degree. “My college journey took longer than I would have liked and didn’t include the typical college experiences. There were no tailgates, no dorm life, no spring breaks, or freaking out during finals. Sometimes I regret that I didn’t have those experiences, but I was given so much more.

“In fact, I was given everything I asked and prayed for.”

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

CADDO AREA COUNCIL, BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA, HOSTS “RUMBLE IN THE PARK”

The Caddo Area Council, Boy Scouts of America, hosted “Rumble in the Park” Car and Motorcycle Show on June 25 at Spring Lake Park. Winning Best of Show in the car category was Phillip Pruitt and his 1955 Chevy. Best of Show in the truck division was awarded to Danny Crumpton and his 1966 Chevy.

Jerry Grider and Chris Gillen

Johnny Rounsavall, Allen McDowell and Vernon Lockett

Sarah Lingle, Janice Richardson and Lakyn Brown

Donald Brown

Michael Corley and Jimmy Norwood

Chelsea Hudson and Ryan McBride

Curtis Langford, David Spence, Anthony Lowry, Todd Donley and Bob Bresley

Don Smith and Earl Hooker

Gregg Anderson, Cody Shockley, Gary Stang and Russell Scogins

Patrick Richardson, Mike Sewell and Collin Sewell

Gregory Wood and Ricky Boler

AN ASSET TO THE EDUCATION COMMUNITY

Texarkana Arkansas School District’s 12th grade principal, Lekia Jones, helps shape and prepare students to head out into the world

by LINDSEY M c MILLAN

photo by SHANE DARBY

Lekia Jones loves to call the Hogs and is a Razorback through and through. A proud member of the Arkansas High Class of 1992, she returns for the upcoming school year to serve as the 12th grade principal. She feels like she has come full circle, not only by being an alumnus but as a teacher and administrator in the district as well. In addition to her work as a teacher and administrator across TASD, she has also worked in the Liberty-Eylau Independent School District and Hope Public Schools. Education is first and foremost in her eyes, primarily by strengthening a student’s character and individuality, along with their academic potential. She holds a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies, an MS in Educational Administration, and her Superintendent Certification from Texas A&M UniversityTexarkana. She also completed a year in the Arkansas Leadership Academy. Her broad scope of knowledge and experience is an asset to the community, especially in regards to shaping and preparing students to head out into the world. She’s particularly excited to be doing this at Arkansas High School.

A native of Texarkana, Lekia attended Arkansas schools and loved to play school on the steps of her apartment building teaching her playmates what she learned that day. Being raised in a humble, lower socio-economic home made her grateful and sympathetic for what so many students are in need of. “Growing up, it wasn’t cool to be smart,” she explains. “It’s important for me to provide for all students and be a resource they can trust and come to.” She also emphasizes the importance of forming healthy relationships between students, teachers, and administrators. Lekia grew up with three sisters and two brothers. While at AHS, she was a member of Mu Alpha Theta (Mathematics Honor Society), Physics Club, the Hovercraft Team, and Student Council. She credits many teachers along the way with supplying her with the skills and confidence to achieve. Such teachers include Donna Harrison, Emmie Gamble, Whitaker Allen, Eloise Turner, Delores Coe, Marilyn Webb, and John Dempsey.

In addition, Lekia’s great-aunt, Betty Askew, taught elementary school for 38 years and has always been there

We will use every single minute as an opportunity to make an impact: this does not start in the 12th grade but by working with all grade level administrators and teachers to ensure a smooth and consistent transition throughout their high school career.

“ ”

The 2019 Union Elementary staff (with Lekia standing on top of the bus) prepared for back to school after their traditional TASD Breakfast.

of

to encourage her, along with Dr. Robin Hickerson who hired her as a classroom teacher. Mr. Terry L. Taylor convinced her to begin as a substitute teacher during the time that she was in graduate school. While at TAMUT, one of her favorite professors was Dr. Kathy Lease. “Dr. Lease was extremely instrumental in preparing me and many others for the Superintendent Certification program. Her encouraging words, mentorship, and listening ear will always be appreciated.” Lekia is grateful for the wonderful people who helped her become the educator she is today.

Lekia stresses the importance of a good education, especially in light of what has transpired over the last few years. Lack of face-to-face instruction and low morale stemming from the COVID pandemic has given schools so much to work against. But she says they are ready and willing to take on the challenge. In particular, she is anxious to begin the new school year serving first as an advocate. She says, “We will use every single minute as an opportunity to make an impact: this does not start in the 12th grade but by working with all grade level administrators and teachers to ensure a smooth and consistent transition throughout their high school career.” There are various programs at AHS which she is excited to see returning. One of which is the Internship work program, which helps students get ready for the workforce through mentorship. Also, the ROTC presence on campus is an encouraging one with the availability for military recruitment. The AHS Senior Breakfast is taking place on August 11 at Crossties in downtown Texarkana. At this event, students will be able to visit with community leaders and business owners, as well as a variety of groups present to hand out swag bags and offer door prizes.

Above right: Surrounded by family and friends, Lekia received her Master of Science degree from Texas A&M University-Texarkana in 2009.

While at Arkansas High School, Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson visits with Lekia and a Union Elementary student.

As

July 1, 2022, Lekia serves as assistant principal at Arkansas High School, her Alma Mater. She says, “Once a Razorback, Always a Razorback.”

Lekia received recognition as the Arkansas Regional Teacher of the Year in 2009. She is pictured with her aunt, Betty Askew; son, Michael Jones; and sister, Chiquita Lewis, during a formal dinner at the Governor’s Mansion.

photo by SHANE DARBY

During December 2017, Lekia and her family

Lekia is a strong supporter of higher education and encourages her students to take advantage of the wonderful opportunities for higher learning here in the ArkLaTex. In addition, she encourages all in the community to rally in support of students so they can get excited about what lies ahead for them after high school. “With the support of our parents and the Texarkana community, our goals will be met. It truly takes a village – we are calling all Hogs to support our efforts and any others to come back home because ‘Once a Razorback, Always a Razorback.’”

Lekia has one son, Michael, who is serving in the U.S. Air Force as a First Master Sergeant. He is married and lives in Panama City, Florida, with children, Mackenzye, age 11, and Michael Jr., age 5. When not busy on campus, she enjoys shopping, decorating, party planning, and cheering for her favorite football teams, the Dallas Cowboys and Arkansas Razorbacks. She is very active in her church and serves in various roles at the Church of the Living God Temple #4. She is also involved with community organizations such as the Junior League of Texarkana, where she is a sustaining member and past recipient of the Outstanding Teacher award. She’s the vice-president of Women for A&M Texarkana, and the president of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority. She loves the fact that the organizations she’s a part of not only have strong roots in the community but serve to promote education as a whole.

Lekia is the associate director of the Arkansas Association of Middle Level Educators (AAMLE) where she has also served as president, secretary, and conference chair. She stresses the challenge of engaging students through the encouragement of many along their journey, a journey she is so proud to be a part of. “The 2022-23 senior class is familiar with my level of high expectations of excellence – I was their 6th grade principal,” she says. “So, this will be our second graduation together. I look forward to hearing the students greeting me in the hallways and classroom with the familiar ‘Ms. Jones,’ ‘Ms. J,’ or ‘Momma J.’” Lekia is eager to join the amazing team at Arkansas High where such an energetic educator like herself can put her passion to work.

TASD school board members, Superintendent Dr. Becky Kesler, Assistant Superintendents Gwen Adams and Dr. Robin Hickerson, and Union Elementary staff and Student Council members participate in a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the school’s courtyard on October 18, 2017.

vacationed in Paris, France, and visited the Louvre Pyramid to see the Mona Lisa.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

TWIN CITY CHAPTER OF TOP LADIES OF DISTINCTION, INC. NONAGENARIAN CELEBRATION

Twin City Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. held its 12th annual Nonagenarian Celebration during a brunch on June 25 at the TISD Service Center. This event recognized Ms. Willie B. Mitchell, Mr. Willie Elijah, and Ms. Catherine S. Thomas who are 90 years old or older, for their contributions to their family and community. Members of Top Teens of America were also in attendance. Honorees and guests were entertained by Rosie Daughtery (pianist and soloist) and Cameron Smith (saxophonist).

(top row) Charlean Carroll, Barbara Larry, Ruth Blackwell and Roseland Lattier; (bottom row) Ms. Willie B. Mitchell, Mr. Willie Elijah and Ms. Catherine S. Thomas

(top row) Faizah Cooper, Jacob Cox, Brooklyn Henderson, Quentin Kennedy and Cameron Smith; (bottom row) Ms. Willie B. Mitchell, Mr. Willie Elijah and Ms. Catherine S. Thomas

Ms. Willie B. Mitchell, Mr. Willie Elijah and Ms. Catherine S. Thomas

EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT

“ The more that you read, the more things you will know, the more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”

- Dr. Seuss

Jolane Cook

Campus Director University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana

While Jolane Cook’s title has changed over time, she serves as the first campus director for the Texarkana campus of UAHT. Proudly serving in this role for 10 years, she admits that what she loves the most about her position is that she never gets bored. “I love that every day poses challenges, some anticipated and some surprises. I am the hands, eyes, ears, and feet for the three vice-chancellors, and I work closely with everyone on the Hope campus to provide services to our students,” she explains. “Our campus leadership has tried to minimize duplication of services, and we utilize a service model that rotates services, staff, and faculty, and maximizes technology.” UAHT’s model has helped students of all ages and backgrounds to feel welcome and comfortable while pursuing their career journey, especially since most of the students are first generation students within their families to attend college.

Jolane grew up in Gurdon, Arkansas, and was blessed with phenomenal parents, Mary V. and Frank Taylor. Her father now lives in Magnolia, Arkansas, and is married to Ginger (Erwin) Taylor. Her brother (Claude Taylor) lives in Wisconsin with his family. Consequently, she has two bonus sisters that live in central Arkansas with their families. Jolane and her husband, Kerry, will celebrate 32 years of marriage this fall. They have a daughter, Mary Allison, who is a graduate of Arkansas High and finished her bachelor’s degree at Hendrix College last year.

The valedictorian of the 1980 graduating class of Gurdon High School, Jolane received a Bachelor of Arts from Hendrix College in 1984, graduating with Distinction in Political Science. In 1987, she received a Master of Public Administration from

Texarkana Campus 10 Year Anniversary Data

FALL 2012 TO SPRING 2022 STUDENT DATA

• 2,707 unduplicated students.

• 2,247 degrees and certificates were awarded.

• Miller County enrollment at UAHT went from 6% of total enrollment in fall 2011 to 38% in fall 2021.

• Miller County concurrent enrollment went from 10 students in fall 2011 to 215 students in fall 2021.

FACILITIES

• Texarkana Campus Center

• Professions Building

• Workforce Education Center (under construction)

• Will house the Arkansas High School Collegiate Academy, Secondary Career Center, Welding Shop, Classrooms, and a Community/ Industry Meeting Area.

• Total investment of over $10,000,000 in Texarkana.

Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas. She has attended many continuing education and leadership programs over the years, but the two that stand out to her the most are LeadAr and Leadership Texarkana.

For 13 years, Jolane served as the Director of Industry Training, Continuing Education and Community Education at the University of Arkansas Hope campus. “I loved the challenges, program development, and the opportunity to work with many industry partners in southwest Arkansas. When UAHT expanded and started the Texarkana campus, I was ready to learn new skills and to build upon the strong relationships I had within our organization,” she explains. “I was able to hit the ground running. The contractor was still doing interior painting when I started working at the Texarkana campus.”

One of the initial reasons for establishing the Texarkana campus was to provide educational opportunities for Miller County students to use the Arkansas Lottery Scholarships. When information was brought to the college chancellor’s attention that based upon Miller County’s population, Miller County should have ranked around 17th in Lottery Scholarship awards but was near the bottom of 75 counties, the situation had to be explored! Administrators at the college then learned that eligible students were not attending college anywhere, so they knew they had to provide opportunities for them.

In the Spring of 2012, UAHT partnered with Arkansas High and held a few night classes on their campus as part of a soft rollout. In the fall of 2012, 31 courses were held in UAHT’s first building with five classrooms. “We started with classes eligible for transfer in Arkansas under the Roger Phillips Act and have grown from there. Our second building is the three-story Professional Building, which has allowed us to add technical programming for the Health Professions and additional classrooms. We anticipate our third building being completed in October 2022,” she explains. “The new building will allow us to offer welding and more technical programming on our campus, as well as additional classroom and meeting spaces. Next, we are planning an addition to our original building because we need more facilities to serve our students and meet their needs.”

Whether dealing with power failures, equipment malfunctions, wildlife preventing access to a building, or helping a student apply for admission, Jolane’s days are rarely the same. Sometimes her day may consist of just listening and helping someone access what they need. No matter what the day looks like for her, Jolane enjoys being accessible to students. She participates in student activities and gets to know their interests so that she can support them in the pursuit of their goals. She believes that having an open-door policy is critical for anyone working at a community college so students, faculty, and staff know that they are being heard and acknowledged for their work and efforts.

In the future, Jolane plans to continue to stay focused on meeting students’ needs and the expectations of the community. “We really must be responsive to changes, and that requires us to be more intentional with our limited resources,” she explains. “I anticipate more cross training between silos within higher education, and I anticipate more community partnerships to meet the needs of our region. I really want to see an increase in the number of males in health profession fields and an increase in the number of women in technical fields. Female welders, electricians, mechanics, and information technology are in such demand! I want to do my part to make sure nontraditional students always feel welcome and supported on the Texarkana campus.”

Tyler Standridge

2020 Graduate

Premier High School

I graduated from Premier High School in 2020. Since that time, I have also graduated culinary school at Texarkana College and moved up in my career at Twisted Fork Restaurant.

I was chosen to be a part of The Rotary Club leadership program my junior and senior years. I was also a part of Leadership Texarkana’s Today’s Youth Tomorrow’s Leaders program.

Getting an education is the start of many great things for me. It will open doors I thought were locked forever. I know for a fact I wouldn’t be where I am right now without my education.

Premier High School doesn’t offer a traditional education. We implement a system that is built around the student’s needs. We present the correct tools for students to strengthen their academic weaknesses and improve upon their strengths. Our self-directed curriculum, passionate teachers, and proven academic program helps students achieve their goals on their own terms.

If a little hard work and a bright future appeal to you, we’d like to meet you.

Bria McCartney Campus Director

Karissa Henson

2021 Graduate

Premier High School

Since graduation, I have been enrolled at Texas A&M UniversityTexarkana as a pre-nursing major. During my time at Premier, I completed a dual credit General Psychology class where I received credit toward my college education. I also graduated second in my class, which I can highly attribute to the dedicated teachers who pushed me to always do my best. I have held a 4.0 GPA at college and have made the President’s Honor Roll for the past two semesters. Premier allowed me to work at my own pace and gave me the freedom to build my own learning structure that worked with my needs instead of a uniform system which many other schools incorporate.

A quote that I try my best to live by is by Benjamin Franklin. It reads, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” I believe that a person can never stop learning, no matter how old or wise.

Premier High School - Texarkana Don’t Wait. Graduate.

EDUCATION

UNLOCKS DOORS!

My high school experience at Liberty-Eylau started what has become a lifelong journey of learning, growing and serving.

LaTonya McElroy 1994 Graduate Liberty-Eylau ISD

GRADUATED

• Graduated 1994

• Honors Graduate, with 3.92 GPA

• #7 in Class of 121 (Top 10)

• Student Council President, Band Drum major / Trumpet Soloist, and lots of Club Participation

SCHOOL RELATED ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• Senior Certified Professional Designation (SHRM)

• Earned Senior Professional in Human Resources by Exam (HR Certification Institute)

• Master of Business Administration – Texas A&M University Texarkana

• Bachelors (AAS) in Administrative Leadership –Texas A&M University Texarkana

• Associate of Arts and Associate of Social Sciences – Texarkana College

ACCOMPLISHMENTS SINCE GRADUATION

• Author of Workforce Champion: Breaking Through (Amazon, Target, Barnes & Noble, and Walmart)

• Creator of “Workforce Champion – Why Not You?” Podcast on Spotify, Amazon, Google Podcasts & Anchor FM

• Author of Living Past Regrets: 30 Days in the Garden Prayer Journal (Amazon)

• Assistant Director for HR Certification - Texas State Council

• Licensed Minister – LaTonya Believes Her Call is to the Workforce

• Raising four smart, productive children and a bonus daughter with her supportive husband

• Two oldest daughters have graduated college and are in their professions: Corporate Project Manager and Registered Nurse

• One daughter just entered college, having graduated high school with her associate’s degree, magna cum laude

• Son is high school junior known for his wit, athleticism and dedication. He is an honor student, drummer, and leader.

• Four States Living Fabulous 40 and Under

• Delta Sigma Theta honoree as Pioneer in Praise/ Liturgical Dance

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

• Liberty-Eylau Education Foundation Committee

• Tri-State SHRM Texarkana Chapter, 2010 Past-President, and 2022 President

• Society for Human Resources Management

• Texarkana Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

• CHRISTUS St. Michael Ark-La-Tex Leadership Board Member

• United Way of Greater Texarkana - Board Member

• Texas A&M Alumni Board - Member

• Jack & Jill of America - Member

AWARDS & SPECIAL ENGAGEMENTS

• Employee of the Year – DC Award 2020

• MODEL Award – Jack & Jill of America, Inc.

• Tribute to African American Women, Lorene Bell Finer Womanhood Zeta Phi Beta Award

• Distinguished Alumni Award – Texas A&M University-Texarkana

• Speaker for the Bureau of Prisons – Women Trailblazing in Business Program

• Panel Organizer / Facilitator – “Winning Strategies in the Data Center Workforce Talent War” – Data Center World of Austin, Texas

• Participant, Texarkana College Black Business Leader Panel

• “What’s Up with Workforce” speaker –Engaging Texarkana Business Conference, Texarkana Chamber of Commerce

• “Women Empowering Women” speaker –Women in Business Conference, Texarkana Chamber of Commerce

• Texas Association of Businesses – Texas Employment Relations Symposium Panelist“Navigating the Price of Talent Acquisition”

WORK HISTORY

• Chief People Officer – BCS Data Center Operations

• Vice President of Human Resources – BCS Data Center Operations

• Director of Human Resources – Mayo Manufacturing

• Human Resources Coordinator – Texarkana ISD

• Human Resources Staffing Specialist/ Training Coordinator – Red River Credit Union

• Human Resources Staffing Specialist – Red River Credit Union

• Human Resources Assistant – Red River Credit Union

• Adjunct Professor, School of Business –Texas A&M University - Texarkana

“We don’t do anything on our own. Liberty-Eylau was an amazing experience, growing up with people who pushed us students to reach our highest potential. LE allowed me to LEad. The institution was driven by student-led learning and volunteerism. Liberty-Eylau is where I developed my first leadership and public speaking skills standing before crowds on football fields and in gyms. If we think we are doing anything on our own, we are mistaken. We are standing on the shoulders of teachers and mentors, principals and cafeteria workers, boosters and sponsors. Thank you to all of the Liberty-Eylau community of educators and volunteers, past and present for enriching lives and changing the world. I am a Leopard for life!

LaTonya McElroy

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

TEXARKANA CHILDREN CHARITIES OPEN

From July 11-16, the All Pro Tour and the Women’s All Pro Tour held its Texarkana Children Charities Open at Texarkana Country Club and Northridge Country Club. Proceeds from the tournament benefitted Runnin’ WJ Ranch. Additionally, on Tuesday, July 12, the golf pros held a golf clinic at Northridge Country Club for special needs friends of Runnin’ WJ Ranch.

Mark Van Herpen and Emma Edwards

Nate Vontz, Jamell Foate and Taylor Dieke

Maddie Luitwieler, Andy Zhang, Amelia Mckee, Delaney Shah and Taylor Dieke

Roger Oliver, Loretta Giovannettone and Michael Perras Ryler Harris, Brenda Womack Cummings and Narda Launius Emma Edwards and Fallon Turner

Delaney Shah, Jamell Foate, Maddie Luitwieler and Matthew Peek

Paisley Harris

photo by SHANE DARBY

TWO TEACHERS AFFECTING ETERNITY

Although they teach at different local school districts, Ashlee and Daniel Francis share the same goal of making a positive impact on their students

by AMBER E. WILLMAN

Education is always a hot topic in the media. It cycles around, usually during election years as politicians use it as part of their platforms. Promises are made and rarely kept. For many states, this topic is a current event as the debate over whether to raise teacher salaries is argued from both sides of the aisle.

Ironically, while the politicians are debating teacher salaries, social media is filled with requests for teachers. Public education is wildly off-balance. Teachers are outnumbered by students, and it affects their abilities to do their jobs effectively. Schools are understaffed and underfunded. There are programs offering financial aid for those interested in the teaching profession but to what end? Where is the benefit for the teacher?

Some would say that they get summers off. Rarely, is this true. Teachers stay longer and return to the classroom earlier than students. Summer months are filled with professional development, continuing education, and many teachers work extra jobs or teach summer school to supplement their incomes.

They get holidays off. Point of fact – most businesses close for major holidays. But they have shorter days. No. They don’t. They leave school and go home and spend their evening and weekend hours grading, writing lessons plans, and preparing for the next week. Most teachers work as many or more hours than surgeons and lawyers, clocking anywhere from 60-80 hours per week.

Why would someone who knows that salary and raises are out of their hands, knows that they will work more hours than they will get paid for, knows that they are taking on one of the hardest jobs imaginable, choose to put himself in this situation?

Daniel and Ashlee Francis do it because they have the opportunity to impact the lives of their students for the better.

Teaching wasn’t always the plan though. At least, not for Daniel. Daniel and Ashlee met in college while attending Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. Daniel pursued a BS in Athletic Training and an MS in Sports Administration, while Ashlee was always headed in the direction of education. She

Above left: One of Ashlee’s first graders gave bracelets to every girl in her classroom, making each of the classmates feel like a family. Ashlee admits that this photo is one of her favorite photos taken so far during her teaching career.

Above right: On Fridays, students and educators in Pleasant Grove ISD get to wear spirit gear and jeans. Ellie looks forward to being with Ashlee in first grade this coming school year.

Daniel, Ashlee, Ellie and Easton during a fall photo session. At the time, Ellie was 5 years old, and Easton was 2 years old. (Photo by Katelyn Peek)

completed a BSE in Education and an MS in Education with a concentration in School Counseling.

The couple married in 2013, and Ashlee went right into teaching and is in her tenth year in the profession. Daniel spent four years as an athletic trainer at the college and professional levels. He has worked at Ouachita Baptist University, Henderson State University, and even spent a summer with the Detroit Lions.

While working as an athletic trainer, Daniel taught classes at the college level. He taught athletic training. When Daniel and Ashlee started a family, the constant travel was a strain on his time. His priorities changed, and the transition to full-time teaching was natural. “My whole life my mom told me I should be a teacher. I went all the way through college and finally made the decision to teach. My mom said, ‘I tried to tell you. Moms are always right,’” Daniel says.

Now Daniel teaches health science classes at Texas High School to students interested in the medical field. Ashlee teaches at Pleasant Grove Elementary School and during her tenure in elementary education, she has taught kindergarten, first, and second grades.

Daniel laughs that he doesn’t have the patience to teach tiny humans, and Ashlee agreed stating that she didn’t have the patience for teenage attitudes. They’ve both found homes in education. It just so happens to be at opposite ends of the journey.

Despite the differences in who, what, and where they chose to teach, many of their experiences are similar in nature. Daniel finds success in helping other people achieve success for themselves. This was true from his time as an athletic trainer and continues today. “… I like helping students succeed in my class but also in life, getting a job, being a parent, going to college.” He enjoys helping others be successful.

Ashlee’s experience is similar but on a more basic level given the ages of her students. “I just love the younger grades because that’s when they are really listening. They are sponges. I teach a lot of social things, like how to get along with other people. Teaching kids how to read and seeing the light bulb come on. It is really cool watching kids learn something they’ve spent a lot of time on.”

The Francis’ dedication to their professions extends beyond the day-to-day classroom activities. Daniel works hard to build relationships with his students even outside the classroom. By “bringing different aspects of my life inside the classroom to expose the students to life outside of academics. I help build resumés. There are things they don’t have. Life skills. I try to give them examples by modeling it for them.”

Since both of her kids were smiling and happy, Ashlee snapped this photo of Ellie (6 years old) and Easton (3 years old) after church this summer.

Top left: Ashlee with the 2021-22 first grade team when they received grants from the Pleasant Grove Education Foundation last year.

Middle left: Hilary Stovall, Ashlee, and Katie Osburn during last year’s Hawk Hustle fundraising event.

photo by SHANE DARBY

Ashlee goes to a lot of sports events. She attends soccer and baseball games. “It’s such a huge deal to them for me to do that. I’ve done that for 10 years, and I will always do that.”

Ashlee keeps tabs on her students after they leave her class. “I had a student from last year who came to visit this year. His mom brought me a Christmas present. He wasn’t even in my class, but she did it because we were so close.”

Many of Daniel’s students return to visit him and it is not uncommon for the Francis family to run into his students in public at restaurants or the public pool. Daniel and Ashlee both do as much as they can for their students, but they also emphasize how crucial parent involvement can be to a student’s academic success.

Daniel says, “Parents need to hold their child accountable and work with the teacher for students’ success.” Ashlee adds, “A huge thing for parents of my students is communication. It makes such a difference when the parent is involved in their child’s life. They need to check folders, respond to announcements, and contact me back.”

Last fall, the drill team selected Daniel as Teacher of the Week, and it was announced at a football game. Another time, one of the basketball players chose Daniel to stand with him on Teacher Night.

It is easy to second guess and wonder if you make an impact. “In my first or second year of teaching, students were assigned to write a letter to their favorite teacher about the impact on their life. I got four or five letters. I’m reminded daily why I teach.” Daniel adds, “I love my job, and I would advise people to go into the teaching field any day.”

“I connect with all of my students no matter the circumstances. Even though they struggle on something, I can see the light bulb go off, and I see them starting to get it,” Ashlee said. “Teaching is such a rewarding profession. I look forward to teaching my students a new skill and watching them learn how to read something new or do a hard math problem. This outshines all the challenges.”

“Any time a student comes to me and says they’ve chosen a career path, or they’ve made a decision about their future, and I had an influence on it, or I’ve had students with grade or behavior issues, and I talk with them and they make a change ... all of that is special to me.” Daniel knows the impact is real. “At the high school level, I have so many instances where kids have no plans for their lives but then they come to me, and they’ve made a decision.”

With all this evidence, there is no doubt that teachers are more valuable to the education system than any monetary equivalency the public can offer them. That doesn’t mean that the people shouldn’t give as much effort to supporting the teachers as they give to supporting their students. As Henry Adams said, “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops.”

Bottom right:

Sporting TISD’s school colors of orange and white, Daniel and Ellie enjoyed participating in one of Texas High School’s “Spirit Friday” activities in 2017.

This summer, Ashlee, Daniel, Ellie and Easton have enjoyed being at the lake and participating in all types of water sports.

photo by

SHANE DARBY

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

NEDRA TURNEY RECEIVES THE 2022 LIFETIME RAZORBACK AWARD

The Lifetime Razorback Award was created to recognize an outstanding individual and fellow Razorback who exemplifies the true spirit of being a Razorback through relentless dedication, lifetime support, and unwavering service to TASD. The 2022 Lifetime Razorback Award recipient, Nedra Turney, has spent her life upholding the Razorback traditions, striving for Razorback success, and has reached milestones with selfless contributions in support of Razorback schools and students.

Nedra is a 1958 graduate of Arkansas High School, which recently donated their remaining class funds to purchase benches for the Arkansas High School Razorback Garden. For several years, she worked with the Arkansas Women for Education and helped select scholarships for AHS graduates. In addition to volunteering her time with the Texarkana Arkansas School District, Nedra volunteered with the North Heights Alumni Association which donated benches to North Heights Community School and the Miller County Conservation District which awarded $1,000 to Trice Elementary to construct a greenhouse.

Nedra became the executive director of the Texarkana Area Chapter American Red Cross in 1984 and retired in June 2006. During her Red Cross tenure, she served on numerous committees and served two terms as chair of the American Red Cross Retiree Board. She served as the office manager for the Miller County Conservation District, a member of their board of directors since 1986, and as chairperson since 1997. Additionally, Nedra has served on the Texas A&M University Nursing Advisory Board, Texarkana Arkansas Adult Education Advisory Board, Miller County Farm Bureau Board of Directors, Texarkana Arkansas City Beautiful Commission, and many other boards and committees. Her pride and dedication to Miller County and the Texarkana community is evident in her many awards and honors. Among them are: Susan B. Anthony Award for Outstanding Community Leadership, University of Arkansas Leadership Arkansas Class (LeadAR), just to name a few. Nedra has been married to Jerry Turney for 62 years. They have three children, two sons-in-law, four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Nedra Turney

AUGUST 2022

AUGUST 4

Temple Memorial Pediatric Center will host its Drawdown and Casino Night event at 6 p.m. at Crossties. Dinner will be prepared by Pop’s Place. Tickets are $100. Call 903-794-2705 for more information.

AUGUST 6

The Texarkana Museums System will host “The Talking Dead Living History” performance at Rondo Cemetery. Join TMS for the first tour of this historic 1800s cemetery steeped in history. Tickets can be reserved at : www.texarkanamuseums.org/events or by calling 903-793-4831.

AUGUST 13

Another fun Game Night at the Museum of Regional History will take place in the courtyard. Board games and musical entertainment will create a Family Friendly Night Out downtown! Save a spot at: www.texarkanamuseums.org/events or by calling 903-793-4831.

SEPTEMBER 2022

SEPTEMER 22

Texarkana Resources will host its drawdown dinner, “Under the Harvest Moon,” at 6 p.m. at Ramage Farms in Hooks, Texas. Activities include a silent auction and prizes. Tickets are $100 per couple. Email: bconnaughton@texarkanaresources.org for tickets.

SEPTEMBER 30

The Greater Texarkana Young Professionals will host Destination Downtown beginning at 5:45 p.m. Businesses in the expanded Entertainment District will be included in this fun event. Call Brittney Haynes at 903-490-0024 for more information.

Experts Ask the

CARRIE TRUSTY

Director of Marketing, MRC Cornerstone Retirement Community

What is the importance of maintaining purpose for senior adults?

Staying connected to a sense of purpose and meaning during the aging process can result in lower occurrences of sadness and depression. Additionally, living a purposeful life has been linked to improved physical health in older adults. All in all, finding and sustaining a sense of purpose is proven to add longevity, as well as an overall satisfaction in life. Older adults struggling to find purpose are encouraged to plug in to a community group, club or faith community to connect to opportunities that may pair well with their interests.

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

RUNNING THEIR OWN RACE

Homeschooling their three children, going on adventures in their skoolie, and watching their kids play sports keeps Crystal and Jake Casteel busy and engaged

by LISA PORTERFIELD THOMPSON

photo by SHANE DARBY

“Intentional,” Crystal Casteel said when asked to describe her family in one word. “Adventurous. We’re not afraid to try something new. We aren’t stringent to keep up with the world; we’re just running our own race.”

And doing a really good job of it, by all accounts.

Jake and Crystal Casteel have been married for 16 years. They have three children: daughter, Haven, is 13, and twin boys, Olen and Reese, are 8. “I can truly say I married my best friend,” Crystal said, “My best friend who says yes to all my crazy ideas and adventures.”

The couple is active in their church, Church on the Rock, and keeps up with a busy sports schedule. The family loves to camp and hike. Crystal works in the kids ministry at church, and Jake is an entrepreneur. “What doesn’t Jake do?” Crystal laughs.

Crystal finds herself busy with homeschooling three children, another adventure to add to the list. “The first year was by far the hardest,” Crystal said. “Honestly, the desire to homeschool had been hidden in my heart from the time Haven finished fourth grade. It just sounded crazy when I said it out loud, and I didn’t think it was possible without making big changes to our life and jobs, not to mention Haven’s unwillingness to leave her friends and make a drastic change.”

Crystal said Haven has been the one who had to adjust the most. “The boys love how flexible our school is now, and that they don’t have to sit in a classroom a full day,” she said. “They have each other, so it’s like having a built-in best friend. Haven is a different story. She loves all things social. Thankfully, Trinity Christian School offers sports for homeschool students, and she got the opportunity to play with them last season and loved it. We couldn’t ask for a better community for her.

“I’ll never forget watching the local news during the pandemic and watching school close and the world shut down,” Crystal said. “The boys had just started kindergarten.”

The Casteels made the swift transition to virtual learning, and while it wasn’t always smooth, the family flourished. “We know it was a really hard time for so many people,” Crystal said, “but we tried to find the positives and really take the time to rest and reset as a family.”

The Casteels suddenly had time to think a lot about what would be best for their family, and ultimately, since the home learning was going so well for their children, decided to continue on with homeschooling. “We were prayerful about it,” Crystal said. “I knew with all my heart it is what the Lord wanted me to do, so we took a complete walk in faith, pulled the kids from school, and dove in.”

Top: Reese, Olen and Haven in the bedroom of the skoolie.

Middle: Beatrix’s transformation photos show her post deconstruction, the carpentry work of Ric Pitts, and her final form with flooring installed and curtains hung.

Bottom: Olen and Reese staining the bedroom walls.

Church on the Rock offers a homeschool enrichment cooperative called Legacy that meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays, which gave the kids a chance to see friends and gave Crystal time to work. “Everything just seemed to fit so nicely,” she said. “I was overwhelmed with the Lord’s love and peace over the transition for our family.”

While Crystal and Jake had a peace about homeschooling, there were still challenges to face in the new environment. “I was stuck in a traditional school mindset,” Crystal said. “I had super unrealistic expectations that first year, and I constantly felt unqualified to be taking on such an important role in our children’s future. But we all live and learn, and I walked away with more knowledge and confidence in myself as the facilitator in our children’s education. Now as we approach our third year my favorite thing about it is that we get to choose what to cultivate in our home.”

The Casteels also appreciate that homeschool happens everywhere and anywhere. “I wish I could say we have it all together like all the homeschools you see on your Instagram feeds,” Crystal said. “We definitely have our imperfect moments, a lot. My kids aren’t always obedient or happy to do their schoolwork. My house, organization, and the hearts of my children are always a work in progress. But time is precious, and I know I will never regret the time I had with my children. I just try my hardest to be intentional and give myself a lot of grace.”

The Casteels’ newest adventure is the restoration of an old school bus they’ve turned into an RV for family camping trips. They affectionately call

The Casteel kiddos have their photo taken annually when they hike the Cedar Falls Trail. Jake adds retractable legs to the dinner table.

Inset: The entire family sits down to eat pizza in the skoolie before they began its transformation.

Top: Haven holds up the sign made by Rhonda Clark. Beatrix means “she who brings happiness; blessed.”

the bus “Beatrix.”

“We kind of have a thing for restorations projects,” Crystal said. “We aren’t claiming to be Chip and Joanna, but in the past we have restored a couple of RVs, and we never could settle on one that fit us. Financially, we didn’t want to commit to a newer one, so during the pandemic we started researching “skoolies.”

A skoolie is a renovated school bus that is often turned into a house or mobile home. It’s a huge trend in renovation communities lately, and the Casteels’ project is one great example of how the projects can go very well. “I spent more time than I would like to admit researching ‘how to’ do a school bus conversion,” Crystal said. “I thought it would be so cool to find a school bus, renovate it, and have it ready for the next annual Father’s Day trip to Petit Jean State Park.”

The Casteels have always stayed in a yurt, with no air conditioning, on their annual camping trip, but in 2021, they had a different goal in mind. “Jake found a school bus for sale in Sheridan, Arkansas,” Crystal said. “The couple had already started the conversion but were moving to Alaska and couldn’t take the bus with them, so they were very motivated to sell. After a quick trip, and a very, very slow trip home at 55 mph, we were skoolie owners!”

The previous owners’ layout did not work for the Casteels, so they set to work quickly in deconstruction. “It was every little boy’s dream,” Crystal said. “This was a great opportunity to spend time as a family and teach the boys a work ethic.” Jake did all the electrical and plumbing work for the project, and the couple’s friend, Ric Pitts, completed all the carpentry work in only three weeks.

The project is ongoing, but the Casteels are already enjoying the results of the work. “We have an Instagram page, Casteels_on_Wheels, and I have some decals on the window and back of Beatrix so traffic can give us a shout out if they see us travelling,” Crystal said. “I love that this has been a project the whole family can do. We have only made two camping trips so far, and she has already brought us joy and great memories! We look forward to making many more this fall.”

In only three weeks, the Casteels’ friend, Ric Pitts, completed all of the carpentry work.

Beatrix all lit up after the electricity was completed.

Top right: The decal on Beatrix’s window says Casteels_on_Wheels, the family’s Instagram page.

BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER

Team sports help transform players, coaches, schools and communities

by ROGER SHEPPARD

Ateam sport includes any sport where individual players are grouped into opposing teams which compete to win. Team members act together toward a shared objective. This can be accomplished in a number of ways such as scoring more points than the opposing team. What effects does team sports have on the people in communities? What lessons are taught that advance the positive nature of boys and girls as well as the coaches and adults in charge and the fans that make up the entire sports universe?

October 4, 1952, was the day that I arrived on this earth. For 69 years, I have been exposed to team sports. At the age of 7 years, I began a 60-year journey on the trail of team sports. My father and mother were disciples of the team sports concept. They guided me toward the importance of VICTORY, and we were instructed to be positive and ready to play. The importance of preparation and motivation was paramount. We were expected to work hard, and we were EXPECTED to WIN. Participation was the first half, and WINNING was the second.

Being around the team sports scene in the Texarkana area for 50+ years gives me the qualifications for judging the positive effects on our communities. The Big Four – Texas High, Pleasant Grove, Liberty-Eylau and Arkansas High – have all seen the highs and the lows of the effects of team sports as it relates to the positivity of its community. For 32 years, I printed tee shirts for area sports teams and let me tell you “winning” was the motivation for the number of spirit shirts sold. The community would come together on a winning campaign and would scatter like rats during a losing one.

Passion is the foundation for excellence. Passion is the elixir that transforms someone from average to excellent. That transformation creates a special sense of splendor in the neighborhood. Winning creates smiles and good stories of pride and accomplishment where losing creates exactly the opposite.

I witnessed an amazing transformation of a community the first year that Josh Gibson walked into the captain’s seat in 2014. I observed a magical involvement with players, parents and coaches. This amazing coach connected early with

The TAMUT Eagles women’s soccer team played against Arlington Baptist University on September 14, 2021. The Eagles celebrated their 5-0 win. (Photo by John Bunch)

Josh Gibson surrounded by the 2019 state champion Pleasant Grove Hawk football team. During a Four States Living Magazine interview with Coach Gibson in 2017, he said that he teaches his players allaround development centered around four core values: building relationships, growth, accountability, and belief.

Opposite page, top: John Morris Deal and Beau Haynes, players for the Astros’ Dixie Youth Baseball team, display a celebratory elbow bump after a game.

everyone in the Pleasant Grove community bringing them all to the rail of victory. The excitement and camaraderie that was created was genuine and true.

Each community has its own dynamic and handles success and failure in its own unique way. What is common to all communities is the positive impact that team sports has on its people.

A native of Hooks, and longtime resident of Texarkana, Texas, Roger Sheppard studied physics, chemistry and biology at Louisiana Tech University. He worked many years as a professional musician and motivational speaker before becoming a self-employed entrepreneur. He is the founder of Nautilus of Texarkana, Magic Profits Fundraiser, Sports Magic Screen Printing and Embroidery, Competitive Edge Magazine, and now Redbone Magic Brewery. #maketexarkanafunagain is his passion.

Coach

Roger played for the Louisiana Tech University Bulldogs in 1973.

historyhappens ...

BY VELVET HALL COOL Board President of the Texarkana Museums System

History happens to be one of the most educating facets of our lives, and yet is, in many instances, shaped itself by the pursuit of education. Most of us will instantly recognize references to Brown v. Board of Education or the Scopes Monkey Trials. We will remember the struggles around Arkansas Governor Orval Faubus trying to bar the Little Rock Nine from schools, a true paradox in which the lives of these children were becoming paragraphs in future editions of history books they were fighting for the right to read.

Our own town has names that appear in the stories of the fight to achieve equal education. These don’t often flow as frequently in historical narratives. Do you know the story of Silas Herbert Hunt?

University of Arkansas Law School hoping to achieve not only his own personal goals but to also institute change and break the color barrier that existed in law schools in the South.

The same state which would later be the scene of such harrowing debate and violence over nine young Black children attempting to attend high school with their White counterparts, on January 30, 1948, quietly became the state in which the first White southern university since Reconstruction had admitted Black students, leading the way for Silas Hunt to apply for admission to law school. This decision by the University still limited Black students to those at the graduate level, and the battle was not fully won. But grand steps were made for future generations.

Just a few days later, Silas Hunt, his attorney, Harold Flowers, and a reporter from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, would meet with Dean Robert Leflar at the law school, and Hunt was admitted to law school – becoming both the first African American student admitted to a White southern university since Reconstruction and the first ever admitted for graduate studies.

Silas Hunt was born in 1922 in Ashdown, Arkansas, and later moved to Texarkana, Arkansas, where he attended Booker T. Washington High School which, during segregation, was the high school for African Americans in our community. A promising and gifted student, he participated in debate and was president of the Student Council. After graduating in 1941 as salutatorian, Silas continued his pursuit of education at the University in Pine Bluff and even earned scholarships to pay for most of his undergraduate studies. During World War II, he would have to postpone his education to serve in the Army until being seriously injured during the Battle of the Bulge. When able to return to Pine Bluff University, he would graduate in 1947 and begin his quest to attend law school.

Although he had already been accepted by the University of Indiana Law School, Hunt’s desire for further education and a law degree led him to apply to the

Some strides are made slowly and not always made fully. Although he was allowed to enroll, his classes were in the basement of the law school. Segregation still existed within the school as Black and White students would be expected to attend separate classes, use separate restrooms and access library materials separately. Not a loss; not a full victory. An opportunity however, for his White classmates to take initiative and strides of their own. His basement classes were attended by other students, and friendships were forged by a determined, humble man and those willing to look beyond.

Sadly, his goals for his own personal life which so greatly benefited future generations and the fabric of equality in our country, may have ultimately been cut short by his duty to country during World War II. Falling ill with tuberculosis, possibly stemming from his war injuries, Silas Hunt died on April 22, 1949, cutting short his lifetime of educational and social strides and ending his pursuit of a law degree.

Buried in our town in Woodlawn Cemetery on Stateline, Silas Herbert Hunt still impacts our community, our education system, and our history. February 2 in Arkansas has been designated as Silas Hunt Memorial Day. The Silas Hunt Distinguished Scholar Award is reserved for distinguished African American students. A sculpture dedicated to him graces the University campus – and most poignantly and most importantly, in 2008, his personal accomplishments and his legacy to education and history earned Silas Herbert Hunt a posthumous degree from the University of Arkansas School of Law.

NOTE: More information about Silas Hunt can be found at Original Trailblazer: Silas Hunt | Arkansas Razorbacks and his character is often portrayed by the Texarkana Museums System Living History Performers when touring State Line Cemetery.

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

Silas Hunt’s World War II draft card

Silas Herbert Hunt filling out forms in the office of the dean at the University of Arkansas School of Law on February 2, 1948. With him are Harold Flowers (right) and Wiley Branton. (Photo courtesy of the Arkansas Historical Quarterly)

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

COLLOM & CARNEY CLINIC ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES 75TH ANNIVERSARY

On Friday, July 15, Collom & Carney Clinic Association held a celebration in honor of its 75th anniversary. The event took place behind the clinic, and lunch was served. Collom & Carney Clinic is a multi-specialty physician group practice whose physicians and staff are committed to providing quality healthcare services to patients and their families in the Four States Area.

Morgan Pritchett and Elizabeth Hornbeck

Sen. Bryan Hughes and Dr. Cindy Porter

Kim House, Rachel Rivers, Shelia Nix-Smith, Annette McGee, Deborah Smith, Angela Bonner and Belinda Huddleston

Dana Morton and Donna Knight

Gayle Routt, Priscilla Newton and Teri Ogburn

Mary Beth Dwight and Roger Hall

Mayor Bob Bruggeman, Rob Sitterley and Rep. Carol Dalby Jessica Clark, Emily Fuller and Kasey Moya

exquisiteinteriors

WELCOMING. TIMELESS. FUN.

by SUZY TURNER

Tucked away in the Ouachita mountains and nestled in a cul-de-sac in Hot Springs Village sits this modern lakehouse, owned by Tessa and Rodney Ray. Built in the early ’80s, this 2,000 square foot beauty has changed immensely over time with each of its owners transforming it into their own unique space.

Located right on Lake Cortez in a private gated community, the Rays admit that this home was pretty much “love at first sight” for them. Although they have to drive a bit further from town than they originally anticipated, they immediately found that their versatile multi-level retreat was well worth the extra effort.

This lakehouse originally started life as a nondescript ranch style home. Over the years, it has been transformed as walls have been removed, an additional sunroom with a panoramic view has been added, and fresh paint and new lighting have created a distinctive contemporary vibe.

The home’s living area is cozy and quaint but still feels very spacious. Vaulted ceilings draw the eye upward while bright white walls and a black fireplace add sharp contrast to the space. Massive windows across the front and back of the house make guests feel like they are right in the middle of their surroundings. This area offers the perfect vantage point to watch beautiful sunsets and view wildlife frolicking and playing. Tessa and Rodney have often watched huge turtles basking in the sun, bald eagles and cranes soaring in the air, and various species of birds dipping into the lake to grab a fish and fly to a nest in the trees.

Nicknamed “Holiday House,” three bedrooms and two baths are located on the main level, while a bedroom and bath below the home offers a separate entrance. The master bath has a great walk-in shower, and the master bedroom offers the most fantastic view of the lake, making one feel as though they are cantilevered over the water. Another smaller bedroom has a similar magnificent view which is amazing to wake up to! The Rays also recently converted the basement workshop into an overflow bedroom with a full bath, offering a great spot for guests because of its private entrance off of the back deck. Adding that extra bedroom allows the Rays to share their home with more people, and the downstairs bath is also super handy.

Tessa enjoys using unexpected elements and blending various techniques together to create a cohesive yet eclectic style. Following design rules is not a priority for her, so she buys what she loves and makes it work. Much of Tessa’s decorating inspiration came from watching her mother dress up her home while she was growing up. “The first part of my life, my mother was a single hairdresser with two kids and limited resources, but she always kept a lovely home. She is my inspiration, for sure,” Tessa explains. “We don’t always like the same things, and I love change way more than she does, but we both love the hunt when it comes to finding neat things. We have had great adventures in shopping as we have decorated houses over the years.”

Searching for unique design elements over the years has paid off for Tessa as she truly enjoys finding cool, handmade pieces. In the living area, a vintage Adirondack style table sits between the two modern leather recliners. A large totem pole that is perfectly weathered also is housed in this area, along with an extra large carved bear. These handmade pieces were displayed at the Rays’ previous cabin and were two of the few pieces they kept after they sold it. Other custom wood carvings in the home include a hand-carved fish, two swans, and a bird. A huge brass faux deer mount, nicknamed Frankie, adds a chic addition to the fireplace area. Dressed to impress, Frankie’s pipe in his mouth and oversized glasses make him look “dignified” against the black brick fireplace.

The modern kitchen features granite countertops and sleek white appliances, bringing in a cohesive, seamless look. The counter depth refrigerator creates a great workflow in this functional space. A candelabra chandelier hangs over the wooden dining table which offers seating for eight.

Without a doubt, when guests walk through the front door of Holiday House, they are awestruck by the view of the lake. In the distance, houses are tucked away in the mountains across from this safe haven. With the lake just steps away from the home, there is easy access to the deck where the Rays can dock their boat or just run down and jump in the lake for a swim. Two large decks put guests right at the water’s edge while several comfortable porch swings rotate to a lively conversation area or a peaceful view the lake.

Making her home comfortable for guests has been Tessa’s mission since she and Rodney purchased this immaculate lakehouse. She strategically chose to use iron beds, fluffy quilts, and tribal and Persian style rugs to make her home inviting and charming. After a long day of either swimming or working, the Rays encourage all of their friends, family, and guests to grab a blanket, put their feet up, relax, and unwind at their spectacular Holiday House.

the road less traveled

BY NICHOLE HOLZE

Seventeen years ago, when my husband and I were still dating and lived in Iowa, we took a trip down to Arkansas to go backpacking. In our adventure, we stumbled on the quirky, mountain town of Eureka Springs. It was charming and strange, and entirely fun.

This summer, I signed my son, an aspiring wildlife biologist, up for a summer camp at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, a big cat rescue

located in Eureka Springs. We had the great pleasure of staying on-site at the refuge. This meant that we got to explore the discovery area before they opened to the public in the morning. We also got to say goodnight to servals, whose enclosure was just outside our suite, and fall asleep hearing lions and tigers roaring and caroling. During the camp, my son was able to go on a tour with a bit of a glimpse behind-the-scenes, learn all about the big cats and

other exotic animals, plus make an enrichment box for his favorite, Bam Bam, the grizzly.

While he enjoyed camp, my daughter and I had a blast exploring Eureka Springs. We spent one day adventuring down a dirt road to a remote finger of Beaver Lake, with inflatable stand up paddle boards. A picnic lunch on a rocky outcropping and a little watercolor painting while relaxing on our boards made for a remarkable day.

That night, I surprised my children with a ride on a historic train, but not just any ride, a dinner experience aboard the Eureka Springs and North Arkansas Railway where a 1940s diesel engine pulls a 1920s era dining car. My children were delighted as the train pulled up for us to hop aboard. The conductor rolled out a red carpet, and we made our way to our seats. The passing scenery kept us all entertained as we were served a four course meal. If you email ahead of time, they are able to accommodate for most food allergies. They even made me a fruit plate for dessert due to my celiac disease. It was a magical, memory making experience for all of us. A tip: book ahead of time and dress up for the dinner train. It makes it even more special.

That night, downtown Eureka Springs was nearly deserted, and we had the best time grabbing some photos at the iconic spots along the main streets, including the legendary rainbow stairs and the corner of the Basin Park Hotel. Eureka Springs has a little something for everyone, and we can’t wait to go explore a little more someday.

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.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

FRIENDS FOR A CAUSE BUNCO TOURNAMENT

The Friends for a Cause Foundation held one of its quarterly Bunco Tournaments on June 21 at Sling Blades. Attendees enjoyed a Hawaiian themed night full of prizes, treats, and great food. The tournament raised $3,000 and benefitted two local foster families to help them with expenses associated with fostering children and welcoming them into their homes.

Friends for a Cause holds these tournaments to raise money for various causes in the community. To get involved with the group, contact: ffacfoundation2014@gmail.com.

Sher Fomby, Angie Clinton, Kim Palmore and Jo Addy

Amber Ferguson, Angie Ball, Jodi Wing and Kadie Easterling

Jennifer Latham, Laura Jackson, Erin Manning and Jayme Culberson Debbie Huff and Laquida Hobson

Haylee Mudford, Amy Johnson, Brittney Frost, Jennifer Mills, Amanda Hale, Miranda Hurt, Brittney Haynes, Kevin Hancock, Chrissy Gonzalez, Kim Palmore and Suki O’Neal

Pam Beck and Robyn Eaves

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.

Brittney Hunter-Brookes Age: 34

Occupation: Family and Community Engagement Specialist –Texarkana Independent School District

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

After fainting, I would sign the back of the ticket and secure a safety deposit box to store the ticket until I aligned everything.

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

Meditation and reflection.

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

More wishes! I would replay any event in my life and see what it would be like if I did things differently.

At what business could you max out a credit card?

Target! I shop in the store several times a week.

Choose a movie title for the story of your life. “Parenthood.” My life changed for the better in 2017 when my son was born. Being a mother is the most challenging yet rewarding thing ever.

What are you currently watching on Netflix? “The Umbrella Academy.”

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

If you could only have three apps on your smartphone, which would you pick? Google Chrome. Messenger. Apple Music.

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

Football. Texas High School Tigers (#GoTigers) and the Dallas Cowboys.

“

Neal Kiser Age: 44

Occupation: Assistant Principal, Pleasant Grove High School

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

I would pay off all our debt, remodel and fix my dad’s house, take care of all our kids’ college, and buy my wife whatever she wants!

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

I enjoy watching a good comedy or drama show. I also enjoy playing fetch with our Doodle, Maggie, going on walks with my wife (and Maggie), playing tennis, and cooking a good meal.

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

That’s a tough one ... the common answer is an unreal amount of money, but with that comes more problems ... so it would probably be that more people in our town, state, country would be more open and accepting to the Word of Jesus Christ!

At what business could you max out a credit card? Academy or Alexander’s Jewelers (for my bride).

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

What are you currently watching on Netflix? “Outlander.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go? Rome. Australia. Ireland.

If you could only have three apps on your smartphone, which would you pick? Messages. Games. Weather.

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

In the NFL, I root for the New Orleans Saints and for college, I like LSU.

HEAD OF THE CLASS ”

Say no without feeling guilty. Life is all about knowing what your priorities and values are. If activities aren’t aligned with your preferences, say no with confidence.

I would say for the students to enjoy every minute of it. Get the absolute most out of every day and not to take anything for granted because nothing is guaranteed!