Four States Living Magazine November 2020

ON THE COVER - NOVEMBER 2020

For Colorigh siblings, Christian and Brittney, service to their country was always foremost on their minds. After graduating from high school, Christian joined the U.S. Army, and Brittney joined the U.S. Air Force Reserves. They have both enjoyed the rewards of their military work, as they have committed to protect, defend, and honor the greatest country in the world – the United States of America.

See “Service Above Self” on page 10.

Scene About Town 8, 14, 20, 26, 32, 37, 40-42, 46, 48-49, 54, 56-57, 61-63, 68-70

The Way I See It...

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Robin Rogers, Ed.D.

“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” - Dr. Seuss

First of all, this is the first time in decades when the beautiful faces of the Junior League of Texarkana have not graced the cover of Four States Living Magazine in November. This pandemic has affected us all, in one way or another, and I am heartbroken that the annual tradition of merrymaking with friends and family at the Mistletoe Market will be postponed. People who don’t realize what the Junior League of Texarkana does for children and children’s programs in the community need some educating. For almost 100 years, women who have wanted to volunteer in our community have joined together to raise money and lead programs that have done everything from free dentistry for needy kids to prenatal care for struggling mothers. As I lament the loss of a November tradition, we should all keep in mind that the events in our communities which have been cancelled or postponed are hosted for a greater good than just regional family entertainment; these are huge fundraisers put on by local volunteers that make a great difference in the lives of others.

Service to others is not for the faint of heart. People who volunteer learn very quickly that the needs of this community are greater than anybody thinks, right here in our own backyards. Our hearts get wrapped up in projects and causes that we notice or have been affected by. In my thirties and forties, I served on almost every nonprofit board in the area (or at least it felt that way). Seeing firsthand that women and children were sleeping regularly

Four St ates Living

FOUR STATES LIVING MAGAZINE

at a homeless shelter was what I remember bothering me the most. If you don’t drive out of the comfort of your neighborhood, you might not know what happens a mile away. How does our next generation have a chance if we show neglect in caring for the most vulnerable? That is one of the reasons I admire the volunteers of JLT; they are teachers, physicians, business owners, and mothers who see firsthand the needs of our most vulnerable people in the community - kids. As we embark on November without the normal activities of previous years, I am grateful for nonprofit organizations that fundraise to make a difference in the lives of others - right here at home.

So, as I contemplated what would be cover worthy of celebrating in place of a Texarkana institution, service to country was the only choice. Like so many of my friends, my grandfathers served in the military. What you may or may not have learned in History classes is that the United States drafted young men from 1940-1973 to serve in our Armed Forces. Since 1973, we have had an all-volunteer military. That’s almost my entire life without young people actively talking about being truly called to duty.

When I think about kids in high school making life decisions, with or without the help of participating parentals, I wonder how often service to country comes up. Too many people think that the only next step posthigh school is college.

As odd as this may sound coming from a person with a doctorate in higher education, not everybody needs a four-year degree to do well in life. Skills training is more valuable now than ever before. Those skills can be earned through military service, too. For many young people,

PUBLISHER

Dr. Robin Rogers

EDITOR

Suzy Turner

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Kim McMurry

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Lori Rochelle

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Sara Rothwell

PHOTOGRAPHER

Alamond Photography

Dr. Robin Rogers

Sara Rothwell

FEATURED COLUMNISTS

Ali Deal

Nichole Holze

Donnie Spriggs

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jennifer Jordan

Vicki Melde

Virginia Oliver

Jileen Platt

Sara Rothwell

Lisa Porterfield Thompson

the Armed Forces opens doors that a person would never get staying close to home. Think discipline training, education, camaraderie, and travel.

Over the last eight years, I have watched with awe as one of my girlfriends saw her only two kids enroll in military service. I have known Christian and Brittney Colorigh since they were babies, and they are smart, good people. They could have gone to any college. Their actions were deliberate when they enrolled to serve their country. Service to others over self. As an American, I have always been so proud of the military service that my grandfathers and my uncle gave for our nation. We have the freedoms of a democracy because of people like them and the Colorigh siblings. These two young adults knew what our flag represented before they enrolled, but I guarantee they have a love of this nation that is missing from a big segment of the population today. Now, I am starting to sound old and preachy, but there is no greater reward than realizing the impact of service. If it’s not in our military, I hope all people get to experience the joy of volunteering on some level.

So, thank you Brittney and Christian for your service to the United States of America. I hope your story inspires others to follow your lead. Happy November, Happy Veterans Day, stay safe, and as always, thanks for reading FSLM.

“Word to the Nation: Guard zealously your right to serve in the Armed Forces, for without them, there will be no other rights to guard.” – John F. Kennedy

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

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SCENE ABOUT TOWN

LITERACY COUNCIL OF BOWIE AND MILLER COUNTIES PRESENTS MURDER MYSTERY DINNER EXPERIENCE

The Literacy Council of Bowie and Miller Counties presented “Hot Tempers and High-Rise Hotels,” a murder mystery dinner experience, on October 17 at Silver Star Smokehouse. A bit of murder, mystery, and crime fighting fun was had by all.

Kathy Moore, Debbie Crawford, Bette Shoptaw, Kathy Pedigo and Marcia Anderson

Jack Pappas and Stacy Heart

April Lane and Diana Pashan

Jill Black and Riley Richardson

Nalaini Jones, Zack McEntire and Jess Chapman

Velincia Dobrec and Autumn Phelps

Dawn and Greg Johnson

Santos Ramírez and Kayelynne Ramírez Taryn Givan, Billy Brown and Valarie Said

Dustin Goodman, Taryn Givan, Valarie Said, Kris Yells and Parker Jones

Joann Pappas and Jenny Walker

Todd Jaynes, Mayor Bob Bruggeman and Sonya Jaynes

Kristina Jones and Donnie Spriggs

Michelle Couch and Kerry Brown

FOR SIBLINGS CHRISTIAN AND BRITTNEY COLORIGH, PROTECTING THE FREEDOMS OF AMERICANS IS SECOND NATURE

photo by Dr. ROBIN ROGERS

by JENNIFER

America is a nation built upon the values of individual rights and freedoms. James Madison wrote the Bill of Rights to ensure that these individual freedoms would be protected. However, with rights come responsibilities. One of the responsibilities of U.S. citizenship is to serve and defend the country if called. America currently does not require military service of its citizens. Therefore, voluntary military service demonstrates a selfless act of patriotism. This is why we herald members of the military as heroes; these men and women signed up to protect and defend America on their own merits. More often than not, these men and women do not want to be recognized publicly for their service; they do it because they felt called to do so.

Siblings Brittney and Christian Colorigh are two such people. Growing up in Texarkana in a close-knit family, Brittney and Christian valued military service because their grandfathers had served in the Army and the Air Force. Graduating from Trinity Christian School in 2012, Christian excelled at track, winning medals, including the title of state track champion. Five years later, Brittney graduated from Pleasant Grove High School where she played soccer and volleyball and served as a cheerleader on a statechampionship-winning team.

Upon graduation, Christian joined the U.S. Army and trained at Fort Benning, Georgia. “It was something I’ve had a passion for since I was a kid. My grandfather was in the Army, and I’ve looked up to him my entire life,” he remarks. “I wanted to do my part to make this country and world a little bit better.” Christian was stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, serving in the 11 Bravo Infantry Airborne division between 2012-2018. During his tenure, Christian served as a Specialist and earned an Army Achievement medal as well as an ARCOM, the commendation medal given for consistent acts of heroism or meritorious service. Christian also served in the Texas Army National Guard, protecting the U.S. drone base in Djibouti, Africa.

Brittney followed her big brother into the military, choosing to join the U.S. Air Force Reserves. “Christian sparked my interested in joining the military. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do, and he just gave me the extra push to go for it.” Brittney completed her technical training at Fort Sam Houston to become a certified dental technician. She currently serves at Barksdale AFB on the weekends and loves being a dental assistant. “I really enjoy my patients the most,” she comments, “being able to have personal interaction with them.” Brittney also credits her grandfathers as motivators for her. “My Papa Hughes and my Papaw Colorigh have been huge sources of inspiration for me. Both served in our Armed Forces.”

Although it is difficult being away from her family, Brittney clearly recognizes the rewards in her military work. “I see how far I have come in this career of serving something greater, and I know I still have so much more to reach and accomplish,” she states. Brittney’s personal motto reflects an ambitious attitude. “Great things never come

The best of friends, sister/brother duo, Brittney and Christian, have both served their country with pride. (Photo by John Bunch)

JORDAN

from comfort zones.”

Christian and Brittney’s family is incredibly grateful for their service. Their father, John, shines in his love for his children, “Being proud of having two kids serve our country is an understatement. They both volunteered to enter the military branch of their choice and selflessly put their lives on hold to serve and protect our freedoms that most take for granted daily.” He continues, “They have both shown courage through adversities and always had a willpower to succeed, no matter the task at hand.” Their mother, Marcy, adds, “While they are humble when it comes to acknowledging their service and don’t want the recognition, this momma is proud, and I am not shy about telling the world how proud I am. Not only for their service but for the amazing people they have grown to be. They have always been best friends and encouraged each other in everything they do. They are each other’s biggest supporters other than their father and me.”

Brittney and Christian’s role models, their grandparents who inspired them to join the military, also cannot speak highly enough of them. “They have hearts as big as the sky,” Johnny and Paula Colorigh declare. “They are so smart and self-sacrificing. We could not love them anymore or be more proud of the amazing adults they have become.” Grandfather David agrees, citing that he and his late wife are “blessed to have such great grandkids. Their Mimommy was so proud of them and loved them very much. I am so proud of them and love them both for their willingness to serve in our military to protect us all.”

After completing active service, Christian has returned to civilian life, to which he says “it took some time to adjust.” He currently works at Eagle Cutting and Supply in Nash, where he builds hydraulic tubes and hoses and repairs hydraulic cylinders. Christian enjoys being outdoors “if it’s in the woods or on a lake,” and he aims “to make the world a little brighter every day.” Like her brother, Brittney also enjoys spending time outdoors and spends most of her time with her “biggest blessings,” her dogs Bristle and Paisley.

For the Colorigh siblings, service to their country is second nature. They also demonstrate the strength of family bonds, as they support and inspire each other. Although Brittney and Christian do not seek outward praise for their military work, their humility reflects the honor and nobility of their calling. As Americans, we should all be grateful for Brittney and Christian’s love of our country and their commitment to protect and defend it.

Christian during his deployment in Djibouti, Africa, in March 2018.

Bristle joined the Colorigh family in San Antonio for Brittney’s graduation ceremony in March 2019.

A deployment party was held for Christian during July 2017 before his deployment to Africa.

Always supporting each other, Christian congratulates Brittney on her graduation.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

FALL

GALLERY HOP HOSTED BY JOEL WRIGHT ART GALLERY

Art and fun was enjoyed by all on October 17 during the Fall Gallery Hop in downtown Texarkana. Hosted by Joel Wright Art Gallery, stops along the hop included J Brown for the Home, Regional Arts Center, 1894 Gallery, Primal Flow Studios, Arts on Broad, Joseph Raymond Fine Art, Joel Wright Art Gallery, and Verona Restaurant and Wine Cellar.

Dyan Burton and Kaye Baxter

Austin Gilmore and Kaitlyn McKinley

Georgia Hubnik and Judy Wright Walter

Isabella Paoli and Lorraine Howard

Jill Carter and Amaya Sutton Luke Brown and Hayley Felkins

Debbie Nicholas and Kathy Hudson

Sarah and Joel Wright with Emily Cogell

Curtis Bourland and Jeff Brown Kegan Kidd and Olivia Kokko

Flynn Sutton and Jereme Kennington

Joseph Raymond, Darla Clement and Kathy Boyles

Alisha Tarbill and Jennifer Unger

Danny Helms

KYLE WHITE RETURNS TO TEXARKANA TO WORK IN HIS FAMILY’S BUSINESS

photos by DR. ROBIN ROGERS

CONTINUING THE FAMILY LEGACY

by VICKI MELDE

For some, the family business is simply “in their blood.” Growing up watching family members’ work ethic and dedication to their livelihood instills a sense of commitment in the younger generation who observe them, often from childhood. Such is the case with Texarkana native Kyle White who chose not only to join his family’s successful car dealerships but also to return to his hometown to continue the legacy of the Mankins’ family (his maternal grandparents).

Kyle was born in Texarkana and lived here until just before his freshman year in high school when he and his mom, Allison, and siblings moved to Austin, Texas. Kyle has two younger brothers: Hayden (23) and Grant (21) and a 14-year-old sister, Joy.

Kyle lost his Dad, Keith White, when he was only 6 in a tragic accident when Keith was piloting his plane. His love for cars and the car business was strengthened by the fact that his dad worked in the business for Kyle’s grandfather, Pete Mankins. Though Pete and his wife, Mike, also moved to Austin when Kyle’s mom relocated, they both remain icons of the Texarkana community. Pete has owned several auto dealerships in the area and beyond –including his Nissan dealership which has been in operation for over 50 years. “One of my goals is to own a portion of the Nissan store here in Texarkana since it has been in the family over 50 years – hopefully for at least 50 more,” Kyle said, proudly.

Not only has the family business provided Kyle a career path, it also played a vital role in how his parents met. It was because Keith worked for Allison’s father that they met. “I have many memories of him at the dealership,” Kyle recalled. “We’d spend every Sunday with my (paternal) grandparents, Kathy and Don White, and Dad’s side of the family cooking out and hanging out with the other kids in the neighborhood.”

After his father died, Kyle remembered his grandparents becoming even more involved in his and his family’s life. “Growing up, Pete would always take us to school in the morning, and my grandmother (Mike) was always driving us and our friends around,” he shared. “When we moved to Austin, my grandparents moved as well and lived just a block away. My grandmother being a retired math professor was always helping with school work. Even in college, we would FaceTime, and she would tutor me. I don’t think I would have gotten through school without her.”

Family ties are obviously very important to Kyle even as an adult. “I am very close to my mom – we talk every day and always send each other memes,” he said. “I always look forward to hanging out with her. I’m very thankful for all of my family – they are very supportive in anything I do!”

While he remains close to all of his family, there is a special bond between Kyle and his grandfather, Pete. “Pete has always been the person I looked up to and went to for advice – and still is,” he stated. “I always enjoyed my time with Pete – playing golf and listening to him talk about business.” In the midst of

such major challenges as losing his dad and relocating just before high school, Kyle’s strong family relationships enabled him to thrive.

A self-professed “techie,” during high school at Westlake High School, Kyle translated his love for shooting and editing videos into a spot on the school’s Technical Entertainment Crew (TEC). They ran all of the behind-the-scenes for the school theatre and filmed and produced videos of all the productions. “The part of TEC I was most involved in was the 20-person crew that put on live productions of the high school football games,” Kyle fondly recalled. “We would broadcast every game, taking a full 30 foot production trailer with us to away games. I was the first sophomore to ever be selected to edit the end-of-the-year football highlight video. And my senior year, I won first in the state of Texas for video editing in UIL as well as cinematography.”

Although Kyle found Austin a “cool city to live in” with so much great food and live

Pete and Kyle stand in front of Pete’s 1932 Ford 5 Window Coupe in the showroom of his dealership in Alabama, Ford of Jasper, where Kyle worked for several years.

music, after college, he chose to return to Texarkana. “I wanted to go into the car business and got a job at one of my grandfather’s stores,” he explained. “I chose Texarkana because I had grown up around the store and knew a lot of the people who worked there.” After about a year as a salesperson, Kyle was offered a management position at Pete’s Ford dealership in Jasper, Alabama, and took it. He worked there for a little over two years and learned a lot – but he was ready to move back closer to home. When a management position in Texarkana opened up, in Kyle’s words, he “jumped on it”!

“I was nervous moving back at first but quickly settled in and have really enjoyed being back in Texarkana,” he admitted. “My dad’s side of the family is all from Texarkana and so it’s also nice being able to see my aunt and uncle as well as my grandmother. Dad’s mother worked at the dealership for many years and so did his sister. It’s great to be able to have so many people to go to for advice and knowledge.”

At 25, Kyle is not married. He has been in a relationship with his girlfriend, Eden, for six years, and they share two dogs, Theo and Harlow. His favorite leisure activity is golf which he plays most every day he is off work. And true to his roots in the car business, he also really enjoys detailing his car using a garage full of different car wash products and equipment. In the summer, he can be found boating, wakeboarding, and wakesurfing with friends on Lake Austin or Broken Bow.

When asked the three words he would use to describe himself, Kyle offered the following: easygoing, sense of humor, and driven. Kyle acknowledged that many people expect the dealership owner’s grandson to not work hard so he works twice as hard to overcome that stereotype. His work philosophy is perhaps best stated in a favorite quote of his by Thomas Jefferson – “The harder I work, the more luck I seem to have.”

So what does the future hold for this dynamic young man? “I would love to continue in the family business and eventually own a dealership of my own.” With his pedigree in the car business and impressive work ethic, Kyle White will, no doubt, achieve his goals and more.

Kyle and his girlfriend, Eden Young, met while attending Texas Tech and have been dating for six years.

Last October, Kyle and his little sister, Joy, enjoyed attending Austin City Limits Music Festival.

Brothers, Hayden, Kyle and Grant visit with their grandfather, Pete Mankins, during the summer of 2018.

Kyle (second from left) with the sales associates, Benito Ochoa, David Stanley and Kelvin Howell, in front of the Nissan dealership here in Texarkana.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

WILLIAMS MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH TRAIL DEDICATION

Williams Memorial United Methodist Church held a Trail Dedication for the Bob and Betty Bunch Walking Trail on October 15 on the church campus at the trail head near the pavilion. The trail is named after the late Bob Bunch and his wife, Betty, long-standing members of the church.

James Henry and Rosemary Russell, Susan Waldrep, Courtney Waldrep and Madeleine Russell

Brenda Reed and Peggy Burson

Amy Schulz and Mary King

Rev. Russell Martin and Rev. Greg Morgan

Nancy Foreman, Brooks Cox, Wyatt Cox, Tripp Cox, Haley Cox, Charlie Cox, Cindy Bunch, Betty Bunch, Jim Bunch, Becky Bunch and Robert Bunch

Mary Lea Norton and Jackie Rehkopf

Tripp Cox, Marilyn Buck, Charlie Cox, Wyatt Cox, Haley Cox, Brooks Cox and Lori Rochelle

Rev. Dale Vickers and Dr. Jesse Brannen

Jim Cox, Brooks Cox, Dana Cox, Wyatt Cox, Haley Cox, Charlie Cox, Jan Cox and Tripp Cox Doug and Amy Bowers with Tonja Hays

Sharon Sheppard with Linda and Richard Lira

Winnie Courtney, Jim Cox and Karen Mittelman

by

photo

SARA ROTHWELL

DR. KAI HORN SERVES AS AN AGENT OF GOD’S GRACE EVERY SINGLE DAY

LITTLE MIRACLES RESULTS BIG bring

by SARA ROTHWELL

Dr. Kai Horn is a firm believer that miracles happen in mysterious ways. She stays busy working in three different roles as well as taking care of her 8-year-old grandson, Titan Boaz. Kai is Pastor at Hopewell Christian Methodist Episcopal (CME) Church in the Liberty-Eylau community of Texarkana, Texas, Chaplain at CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System, and Online Instructor of Religion at Lane College in Jackson, Tennessee. Her church’s goal is “Loving People, Teaching Jesus, Serving Humanity,” and Kai lives that out to the best of her ability every single day.

Kai is a member of the Gamma Kappa Zeta grad chapter of Zeta Phi Beta, Sorority, Inc; Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc; and the Texarkana Branch of the NAACP. Hopewell CME Church, where Kai pastors, has a full service food pantry, and they annually support Shop With A Cop.

Kai grew up in the South Dallas area where her father was a pastor, and her mother was a musician. She went to Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in downtown Dallas before starting on her college journey. She graduated from Paul Quinn College in Dallas, with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and History. Next, she graduated with her master’s degree from Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, Indiana. Then, she earned her doctoral degree from Phillips School of Theology at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

“March 21st was a game changer,” Kai says in remembrance of her daughter. Earlier this year, 23-year-old Abigail Leeper was one of three people tragically killed. On that day, Kai was helping drive a friend who needed to get their car serviced. She just so happened to look down at her phone, and she had a call from a Georgia number that she didn’t recognize. The call was from a detective asking if she knew Abigail Leeper. Kai told him, “Oh I do; that’s my daughter.” Then the detective said, “I’m sorry to inform you, she passed.” From then on, Kai admitted, “The petty things in life no longer mattered. Ultimately with God you’re going to be alright, but it’s going to take some work. It’s going to take some

being easy on yourself.”

When she first got the call, she honestly thought it was a joke. Kai said, “Abbi is a jokester so my first reaction was like you guys are lying, stop playing.” Abigail has left behind that witty, joyful legacy through her son, Titan. Kai gushed about how Abigail and Titan are both such bright lights in her life and the lives of those around them.

Kai’s entire family is musically inclined. Everyone sings and most of them play at least one instrument. When at Wilmer-Hutchins High School, Kai was very involved in theater and One Act Play where she won UIL Best Actress. She’s a very experienced performer who has been involved in lots of professional theater productions. Kai also played flute and oboe for a long while. Her daughter, Abigail, was a rapper and played violin. Kai wasn’t so sure at first but she admits that she was such a good rapper and a great musician. “The way she would put words together and the imagery ... you could see exactly what she was talking about,” described Kai. Titan takes lessons at Keyz 4 Kidz, and he has a gorgeous voice for his age. “It’s like living with her every day in a very wonderfully blessed way ... her spirit, her love, and her joy,” Kai reflected. She now is taking formal violin lessons every week to honor her daughter. Currently, Kai and Titan live in the parsonage provided by her church, and they live a simple life. “I garden, I can, and I go to work,” she said with a laugh.

Kai realizes that she’s been given the opportunity to shape young minds and also be with people at their lowest points. “The miracle of when a student says ‘ah-ha.’ The miracle of preaching the words that somehow give people hope. The miracle that they can accept it even if that means their loved one passes. Or the miracle of seeing someone that you never thought in a million years would ever get out, God touches them, and they walk out of that hospital. It’s the most blessed feeling,” Kai says with a smile.

Regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, Kai acknowledges, “We are created to be in community, and we’re in this time of forced isolation.” Being the ICU Chaplain and an essential worker has given Kai a different perspective on this year. They’re required to suit up in protective gear before visiting with patients at the hospital. “It’s all for their safety and mine,” Kai said. She handles critical care, progressive care, and surgery where she still has the privilege to be there for those who are being forced into isolation. She is an agent of God’s grace when she has to call each patient’s family. “When I call, I say let me share with you that this is a courtesy call before I tell you who I am or what I do.

Kai’s pride and joy is her grandson, Titan Leeper. Here, they are attending the first grade graduation ceremony at Red Lick Elementary School.

A close-knit group, who has stayed in touch for years, Kai is very thankful for her childhood friends.

Kai shares love with residents of the Quilombola community at a Methodist church in São Paulo, Brazil.

I can say, ‘I was in the room with your husband and/or wife today’ or ‘I wanted you to know that someone was in the room,’” Kai mentions. There’s comfort knowing that someone was there. “Our sickest of sick people is who God allows me to serve every day,” Kai says solemnly.

Kai also sees the positive side of this pandemic. The elders of her church “have come into this technological age as champs,” she mentioned. They all have smartphones and are learning how to use Zoom and watch services online in order to stay safe at home.

Like many of us, Kai is excited for the new year. She is working on starting a nonprofit: Social Equity, Ethics, and Diversity or the SEED Program. Her thesis is about looking at the garden the way the world should be. Her garden has grown tremendously this year. She planted pinto beans in the front, blackeyed peas on the side, and Kentucky wonder beans with a trellis for them to vine. Then there were tomatoes planted right in the middle of it all. Kai’s beans grew like crazy and started connecting. She went out there one day, and said to herself, “This is my thesis. This is exactly what I’m saying.” She saw that not only had the beans produced and grown together, but they had sheltered the tomatoes and allowed them to grow safely. This year Kai has learned that miracles manifest themselves in many ways, even in her garden.

Kai lives by the verse Psalm 37:5. It says, “Commit your ways to the Lord, trust in Him and He will do this.” She admits that if she would’ve been told last year at this time that her only child wouldn’t be here, she had been angered. She believes that the end of Psalm 37:5 really means, “God will be with us, a very present help in whatever situation you’re in.”

One of the physicians at St. Michael, who works with Kai, was looking to get involved in the Big Brother program and adopt a little brother. He said, “You know what, I was going to adopt a little brother anyway. Why don’t you just let me take your grandson?” He and his family pick Titan up weekly, they listen to him, and spend time with him for hours. Now Titan has decided he wants to be a physician.

Kai has been amazed by the amount of people who have befriended her this year that she never would have known. Even now, there will be someone who finds an old video of Abigail singing or being silly, and they’ll send it to Kai. It encourages Kai, reminds her of community, and helps her find the glimpses of God in dark places. “It’s those little miracles,” she smiles.

Every year on Ash Wednesday, Kai and her friends who are members of Amicae (friends of Zeta Phi Beta, Sorority, Inc.), serve food and provide resources for the homeless at the Texarkana Public Library.

Dr. Miriam Burnett (right) was Kai’s cohort adviser when she received her Doctorate of Ministry in May 2018.

Last year, Kai received the Religious Achievement Award during the NAACP Banquet.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

HANDSON TEXARKANA PRESENTS WINE & TAPAS

On October 8, HandsOn Texarkana hosted its 12th annual Wine & TAPAS event at the Collins Home. Themed “Puttin’ On the Ritz,” the event paid tribute to 1920 when the Collins Home was built. Jeff Loving catered the event, and 130 people were in attendance.

Lora Johnson and Deidre Arnold

Selena Jefferies and Kayla Brooke Jefferies

Keith Cragg and Amy Warren

Cindy Marsh and Teresa Smith

Carla Nichols, Taylor Timmons, Nelda Timmons, Theresa Fontenot and Stephanie Wyly

Debbie Herrington and Haley Roeser

Suzy and Robert Irwin with D. C. Gómez

Kathey Graves, Amy Lemley, Tess Baker and Cala McCool

Caroline Woodard, Debbie Schlonga, Leigh Davis and Nancy Hoehn

Jeral and Sandra Willard

Paul and Robyn Elkins with Jennifer Hubbe

Sandy and Nannette Radovich

Kathey Graves, Amy Lemley and Summer Horton

John David Goins and Tallon Reeves

Dr. David Whitten, Parker Burks and Susan Whitten

photo by ALAMOND PHOTOGRAPHY

Hope A Message of Hope Healing&

by VIRGINIA OLIVER

Kaylie Owens is a proud survivor. A paralegal with Lone Star Legal Aid, she works day in and day out with domestic violence victims assisting them on their road to recovery. Passionate for her work, Kaylie helps her clients beyond the realm of her job as she can sympathize with their situation. A victim of a violent crime herself, Kaylie has strongly emerged from the other side of tragedy with an appreciative heart and demeanor. With a solid support system of family and friends, she attributes her survival to both determination and hope.

A VICTIM OF VIOLENT CRIME, KAYLIE OWENS

EMERGED WITH AN APPRECIATIVE HEART AND DEMEANOR

Born in South Carolina, Kaylie moved to Texarkana with her family when she was 7 years old. She and her younger sister, Kristen, grew up with her mom and stepfather, Kim and Randall Baggett. A graduate of Pleasant Grove High School, Kaylie met her first husband, Brandon Harrison, where they both worked. Not long after, they married and had two children, Landon and Ava. As a young mom, Kaylie was busy like most women with tending to her family and work. A legal assistant with attorney Lisa Crittenden from 2008-2014, Kaylie also worked at the Telford Unit as Assistant Commissary Manager before joining Lone Star Legal Aid in 2018.

There were various red flags Kaylie noticed throughout her marriage, some of which were troubling, but she simply kept focused on her family and tried to work through it. A variety of verbal and emotional abuse continued, along with escalating financial problems. Kaylie reports like it seemed that Brandon lived a double life, exhibiting an addictive and narcissistic personality. He would be in and out of work, and Kaylie was not sure where he was or where their money was being spent. He became increasingly domineering and possessive, always keeping track of her whereabouts.

In May of 2017, Kaylie filed for separation and cited harassment from Brandon as he had threatened suicide if she left him, was calling and texting her constantly, and frequently bothered her friends wanting to know where she was and what she was doing. He had moved out of their residence but kept harassing her, and by June, she didn’t want to have any interaction with him even though he had been seeing their children for visits. She was very fearful of him and recalls a baseball practice where she had dropped her son off and later found out Brandon had picked him up without her permission. Kaylie had changed the locks on the house but Brandon took their son, Landon, to the house and demanded that she talk to him. Kaylie was further concerned about the situation as there were guns in the home and

her primary concern was for her son’s safety. The police were called, and her mom and stepfather interceded to help defuse the altercation. Kaylie stayed at her mom’s house with her children and was unsuccessful in getting a protective order since Brandon had not shown any physical abuse toward them.

Shortly thereafter, Brandon had gotten work out of town, and Kaylie had begun a friendship with David Owens. A former federal police officer, David was sympathetic to Kaylie’s situation and was very protective of her. When Brandon was back in town, he would see his children but only with other family members present as Kaylie avoided interaction with him since he always was demanding to talk to her, still sending harassing text messages. August 17, 2017, was the last time her kids saw their father. Kaylie states that Brandon had always been a good dad to Landon and Ava, helping coach Landon’s sport teams, and never showing any signs of danger toward them. By then, Kaylie had filed for divorce and sought a temporary restraining order and sole custody of her children. During this time, Brandon was again out of work and to Kaylie’s knowledge was living in an apartment in Texarkana. On September 11, Kaylie received an incoherent text message from him and later found out Brandon had taken a bottle of pills. The police had discovered him, and at the hospital his stomach was pumped. Still fearful of what he might do, Kaylie looked forward to the final hearing of their divorce proceedings which was supposed to take place on September 20. Brandon had still been calling and texting her friends demanding to know what she was doing.

On Friday, September 15, Kaylie had the day off and anticipated going to the rodeo with friends that evening. She ran some errands and was mindful to put her gun with her in her car. The house locks had been changed yet again, and by that afternoon, Kaylie was back home and anticipating her son to come home from school. Luckily, she had not already picked her daughter up and had received a call from a friend that Brandon was in New Boston. At approximately 3:15 p.m., she noticed her back door had been kicked in, and then suddenly Brandon was running toward her with a knife. A violent attack ensued with her being pinned on the floor with the knife to her throat followed by sexual assault. Kaylie claimed that he looked “crazy” and was full of rage. She pleaded with him to calm down and talk. Unbeknownst to him, she was able to get her phone and text 911 to both David and her mom. She tried to get away from him after he asked about her wedding ring which she claimed was in the car. The gun was also there, and she was hoping

to get away from him to get to it. Brandon quickly became enraged again and tried to choke her after slapping her against the wall. She blacked out momentarily, and soon the police were arriving, and her family was outside. Brandon was taken into custody and charged with burglary and aggravated sexual assault. Kaylie and her kids went to her parents’ house to stay.

After such a harrowing ordeal, Kaylie tried to move on but that was understandably difficult. Her son at the time was 10 years old and her daughter was 4. Luckily, her daughter doesn’t have recollections of any trauma, but Landon did, seeing as he was at the scene having come off the school bus when his father was taken away by police. Seeing his mother so distraught and confused from the scene was very hard for him and with the help of his mom he entered therapy soon after. Kaylie says this was a huge help for both herself and for Landon. There was anger, hurt, despair, and countless other emotions they were dealing with as they tried to move past that day. Her family was a strong, steady support for Kaylie and the kids, as well as David. He was a Marine who had completed a tour overseas so he was aware of the struggles which accompany PTSD. Landon had wanted to return to their home in New Boston, but such terrible memories of what happened there distressed Kaylie. But she knew it was best for her son to return to the house so he could resume sports and be back at his old school. David worked very hard to repair the house, so they moved back into a new and different space. It was very hard for Landon to return to baseball, a sport that he loved but it brought back painful memories of his father. At Kaylie’s insistence, Landon did return to play, and for that she’s very grateful. A message she wanted him to learn with this was that you can’t let yourself quit something you love due to circumstances. She was desperate for herself and for her children to focus on the positive and make progress no matter how hard it was.

2018 progressed for Kaylie and her children toward healing with another obstacle to overcome. The trial was originally scheduled for May but began in September, and after a few days of testimony, Brandon was found guilty and sentenced to 40 years in prison. Kaylie recalls that getting through the trial was the hardest thing she ever did. In another move toward closure, she sold their home in New Boston and moved to Hooks where she and the kids could have a fresh start. She lives very close to her parents and siblings. She and David became much closer, and their relationship blossomed.

Kaylie and David were married April 6, 2019, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, during a small chapel wedding surrounded by their family. (Photo by Bobby Hitt Photography)

Kaylie attended the annual Walk of Hope held during National Crime Victims Rights Week in Lamar County during April 2019.

David and Kaylie attended David’s graduation from the Federal Civilian Police Academy in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, during August 2019.

He was loyally by her side, and she credits his love and support with helping them all through. David proposed to her at a Cowboys versus Texans game, and they were married in April 2019 at a small wedding in Hot Springs where Landon walked her down the aisle. They enjoyed a fabulous honeymoon in Mexico and settled back into their home in Hooks.

Their recovery continues, as Kaylie says it’s an ongoing process. She finds that she’s hyper vigilant about it and seeks to help others find their value and voice after surviving assault. Kaylie says, “Being a victim makes you vulnerable. But you can’t let fear control your life.” She strives to spread a message of hope and healing to others. Although it is still painful to recall the traumatic events, she is grateful for the “blessings” which transpired along the way which she declares is truly a “God thing.” When asked what is the biggest lesson she learned from her ordeal, Kaylie shares, “If you are a survivor of trauma, sexual assault, and/or suffer from PTSD, there are positives that can come out of it. It takes work, therapy, and a lot of hard days, but it is so worth it to come out on the other side.” She also has very helpful advice to others who are going through any form of abuse. For those trying to move forward, she advises, “Don’t ignore the red flags, no matter how small you think they are. There is more to abuse than just physical abuse. Seek out help. It is so important for people to speak up. It does get better, and it helps to talk about it.” She also wants victims to know what is available in the community for assistance. Domestic Violence Prevention, the Doorways program, food banks, and other agencies like Lone Star Legal Aid are standing by to help those in need. In addition, Kaylie says that many people don’t realize that there is a Crime Victims’ Compensation that individuals can apply for through the Attorney General’s office. This can help with costs relating to medical bills, loss of earnings, and mental health care.

In her spare time, Kaylie enjoys anything outdoors, especially hiking and camping. She loves the beach and doing any activity which keeps her active. Her favorite things include activities with her kids, such as football games and cheering events. Landon is now in the seventh grade, and Ava in the second where both kids are straight A students. In response to how her relationships have changed in the past few years, Kaylie says, “I never leave an opportunity out where I don’t say ‘I love you.’ The relationships with my kids and family have substantially strengthened because of this. Going to therapy really helped change my mindset and provided me with coping skills to deal with flashbacks, anxiety, and fear. I honestly don’t think we would be in the great shape that we are in without David or my parents.” Kaylie also feels the tremendous support from the Hooks community, and David is in the process of legally adopting Landon and Ava. The kids have grown very close to him and his three children. They all are one big happy family feeling blessed and grateful for each day that lies ahead of them. There is no doubt that going through what she did has made her a better person, and she remains determined to focus on many positive, happy blessings in life: “I know I am stronger than I ever thought I could be. We all love harder, live life to the fullest, don’t sweat the small stuff, and don’t take a moment for granted.”

During a Dallas Cowboys versus Houston Texans football game on October 7, 2018, David proposed to Kaylie.

Spending the holidays with their kids is very important to David and Kaylie. Here, they are celebrating Thanksgiving 2018 with their five children: Chyanne, Matthew, Jacob, Ava, and Landon.

Outdoor enthusiasts, David and Kaylie enjoyed hiking at the Cossatot River this past May.

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NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL ADVISORS (NAIFA) GOLF SCRAMBLE

The National Association of Insurance And Financial Advisors (NAIFA) held its 22nd annual Golf Scramble on October 6 at Texarkana Golf Ranch. Twenty-four teams participated in the golf tournament. First place in the Championship Flight were: Morgan Smith, John Kelley, Ray Norton, and Frank Sides. Proceeds from the event benefitted the United Way of Greater Texarkana.

Mark Bledsoe and Keith Cragg

Charles Vance and Bart Vance

LaTonya McElroy and Adrianne Griffin

William House, Sam Schoen, Todd McGoogan and Tyler McGoogan

Scott Flanagan and Michele Reese

Ray Norton and David Mims

Michael Haynes, Chris Baca and Cody Deal

Craig McDuffie and Trey Wright

Cory Durham, Kyle DeLaughter and Kevin Avery

Mark Bledsoe and David Mims

Jamie Branson and Molly Riley

Oscar Chapa, Jeff Rogers, Tracy Clements and Jeff Smith

Hunter Camble, Mike Mahone, Leroy Twisdale and William Morriss

BARBARA PITTS RILEY RECEIVED A KIDNEY TRANSPLANT ON JUNE 19, AFTER 22 YEARS OF RENAL FAILURE

photo by SARA ROTHWELL

Looking Forward to Good Health

by LISA PORTERFIELD THOMPSON

June 19, 2020, is Barbara Pitts Riley’s Dialysis Emancipation Proclamation Day. That’s the day she received her kidney transplant, after four years of dialysis and 22 years of renal failure. That’s the day she underwent surgery at UAMS in Little Rock, Arkansas.

“On June 18, 2020, on Bingo Thursday at 11 a.m. I got ‘the call,’” Barbara said. “I was at the Sandflat Center with the seniors. They were playing Bingo, and I could hardly wait for one of them to Bingo. I ran to the room and said ‘BINGOOOO! I got a kidney!’ They were ecstatic. I was happy, but not ecstatic, because I knew the possibilities of it not being a perfect match. Regardless, I went to the hospital in good faith with great expectations.

“Surgery started at 11 p.m., and by 1:30 a.m., my husband received a call saying the kidney had been grafted, and it started working immediately. I woke up about 5:30 a.m. I was sitting up in the chair by 9:30 a.m., and they had me walking by 5 p.m. on Friday evening. On Monday, I was released to come home, only to return on Wednesday,” she said.

Barbara’s transplant journey actually started in 1998, although at the time she did not recognize it immediately. “Shortly after my grandfather passed away, I had chronic pain,” Barbara said. “I was focused on taking care of my grandparents, who had taken care of me most of my life, and I wasn’t really paying attention to what was really going on with my body. I managed my pain with prescription and over-thecounter anti-inflammatory drugs, but the red flag, ultimately, was increased protein levels on my annual checkup exams.”

Initially, the doctors thought Barbara had Lupus or some other autoimmune disease, but early on she was admitted into the UAMS renal clinic and was able to receive intervention treatments. She managed to avoid dialysis for 18 years. “A good team of doctors, diet, exercise, managing my blood pressure, and prayer is what it took,” Barbara said. “I knew eventually I would have to go on dialysis to maintain a quality of life, but I decided early on that I would do it at home.”

Barbara started in-home peritoneal dialysis in 2016 when her kidney function was at 5%. “I believed that eventually I would receive a transplant,” she said, “and I never gave up. In my weakest moments, I would always remind myself it could be ‘any day now.’ I saw others around me and all over the world dealing with chronic kidney disease. There were good moments, and not so good moments. In 2017, I had to have my right kidney removed because of two tumors detected in an ultrasound, and then I was delayed two years from the transplant list to ensure no other tumors developed.”

Barbara underwent many appointments, exams, tests and kept the faith all along. In 2019, her urologic oncologist cleared her to begin working on getting back on the transplant list.

“My nephrologist always kept me on edge to maintain the best health I could,” she recalls. “There are so many chemical levels that could cause heart damage, liver damage, pancreatic damage, just to name a few, so my goal was to maintain my health as best as I possibly could until I got the call I was waiting for.”

Barbara said she made several posts on Facebook asking for donors and had several people interested in being tested. She said she still does not know much about the donor who gave her life. “All I know is that the kidney came from Florida,” she said. “I do not know if it was a living or deceased donor yet.”

Now that Barbara is 120 days post-transplant, she says the hardest part about the actual transplant was constant trips back and forth to Little Rock, but all of her health issues have presented many trials over the past 20-something years. “The biggest challenge throughout the whole journey was having two parathyroid surgeries, five near-death experiences in 2019, and eventually I wasn’t able to recognize myself as the person I once was,” she said. “I had to accept a slower pace of life, wasn’t able to multitask as many tasks, and it seemed like I was getting slower and slower. My husband and my mom, Eula Piper, were my caregivers throughout the whole thing.”

Barbara with some members of her transplant team: Dr. Sharma, nephrologist; Dr. Lyle J Burdine, surgeon; and Dr. Joe, intern.

Johnny has been right beside Barbara for every doctor’s appointment, test, surgery, and more. (Photo by Sara Rothwell)

After the surgery, she says the first several weeks of recovery were intense. Her husband, Johnny Riley Jr., was there with her every step of the way. “He was there beside me for every doctor’s appointment, test, surgery, and more. We drove 2,600 miles between here and Little Rock in the first month alone,” she said, “but now I’m happy to say that I only have to do labs twice a month, and all my visits are telemedicine. I’m doing well!

“My life now is busy, busy, and I’m pressing my way through,” she said. “There are a few aches and pains, but the more I move, the easier it becomes. There are some side effects to some of the medications I take. There are anti-rejection medicines, meds to prevent infection, some to keep ulcers from developing, and many more. Initially, I was taking about 36 different pills a day, but now I’m down to 22, and expect that to decrease even further as I recover. I’m looking forward to returning to golf, tennis, bowling, and dancing again.”

Now that she is feeling better, Barbara can focus on her community once again. “All my time is pretty much committed to a 15-hour day of staying healthy, being a pastor’s wife, working with missions and youth at church, and keeping the seniors at Sandflat Center healthy, happy and creative,” she said. “I am involved in many community activities such as neighborhood cleanups, food drives, voter registrations, gathering statistics for national research projects, volunteering at homeless events, and I’m a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Kappa Xi Omega Chapter of Texarkana.”

Barbara is a native Texan, who grew up in the small town of Summerfield, Louisiana, in Claiborne Parish where she was the valedictorian of her graduating class, and moved to Texarkana in 1982. She is married to Johnny Riley Jr., and they have a blended family of two sons, one daughter, and four grandchildren.

Barbara leaves others with a message of gratitude, hope, and encouragement: “I would like to say ‘thank you’ to my donor. Your donation to save my life is greatly appreciated. This journey is really a serious one, and it is hard.”

To others going through a similar health issue, Barbara says, “Be careful about the medications you take. Don’t take your high blood pressure or diabetes for granted, try to manage them as best you can, and above all, avoid anything that’s unhealthy or brings negative vibes.”

Barbara’s nephrologist used this photo of her for a Chronic Kidney Disease Research group because she admired the way Barbara took care of her skin and hair.

The toughest part of Barbara’s journey was her parathyroid and calcium issues. Her first parathyroid surgery took place in December 2017.

A fun group, Barbara enjoys being involved with the Sandflat Seniors and their activities. (Photo by Sara Rothwell)

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

RUN TEAL THERE’S A CURE 5K

Newk’s Eatery Texarkana and Kayla Mills hosted the Run TEAL There’s A Cure 5K on September 26 at Spring Lake Park. Brad Taylor was the overall male winner, and Kasey Coggin was the overall female winner. Lori Newcomb, co-founder of Newk’s Cares and wife of Newk’s Eatery’s co-founder and CEO, Chris Newcomb, was diagnosed with stage IIIC ovarian cancer in February 2013. Unfortunately, Lori lost her physical battle to ovarian cancer on February 28, 2019, but her mission to help all women and all future women affected by the disease will continue to live on. Newk’s continues her mission of supporting ovarian cancer research and awareness. In two weeks, Newk’s Eatery Texarkana raised $2,880 with proceeds from the event benefitting the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance.

Kayla Mills and Monica Beeman

Chrissie Allen and Shannon Nolen

Jonathan Coleson, Shirley Lara, Sam Markezich, Angel Pagan, Rhonda Mendez, Mark Townsend, Daphne Cox, Mike Cox and Monica Beeman

Tonya Saulsbury and Cheryl Gildon

Brenda Duran, Angel Pagan, Shirley Lara and Jonathan Coleson

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OPPORTUNITIES, INC. HOSTS

“TOUCHDOWNS

& TASTINGS”

Opportunities, Inc. hosted “Touchdowns & Tastings” on October 11 at Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery. Attendees enjoyed an afternoon of football, craft beer, and delicious food. Proceeds will support the mission of Opportunities, Inc., which is to empower children and adults with developmental disabilities to live full lives in the community.

Sherry Young, Bill Scurlock and Rebekah Drennon

Rhonda Bohanon, Autumn Bohanon, Jason Ross and Caleb Mudford

Ginny Asimos, Layla Hazin, Taylor DeBardeleben, Lyndsey Craig, Casey Rampy and Danielle Patterson

Bill Scurlock and Morgan Baxter

Mike and Tina Brown

Dr. Chad Patterson, Tim Asimos and Brandon Rampy

Sherry Young and Chris Young

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H&N FLORAL, GIFTS & GARDEN HOLDS “FALL INTO THE HOLIDAYS” OPEN HOUSE

H&N Floral, Gifts & Garden held a “Fall into the Holidays” Open House October 16-17. Refreshments were served, and visitors were able to peruse their fall collection, pumpkin patch, and catch a Christmas sneak peek of H&N’s holiday merchandise.

Mindy Kelley and Carol Yazel

Mitchell Dudley, Tom Foster, Jill Hoover and Linda Register

Ginger Hillis and Destiny Dodd Jordan Murphy and Jennifer Ritchie

Maureen Pressner and Mitchell Dudley

Ruby Old and Char Crane

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MURDER AT THE DISCO BENEFITS TEXARKANA DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY

A night of disco and mystery was held on October 15 at the 1894 Gallery. All proceeds from the event benefitted the Texarkana Down Syndrome Society for education, camp, awareness, and training.

Candi Campell and Rashinda Hampton

Candi Campell, Taylor Barr, Allison Wright, Annemarie Sullivan, Charlene Okoye and Erica Cain

Charlene Okoye and Roger Massey

Donna Davis and Paul Caver

Holly Swecker and Ginger Rogers

Kassie DeRosier and Keegan Richards Brittany Rogers and Melissa Massey

Anthony and Emily Graham David Peavy and Georgia Hubnik

This year’s Holiday Arts Market & Open House, will be held Friday, December 4, and Saturday, December 5, at the Regional Arts Center, located at 312 West 4th Street in downtown Texarkana, Texas. Many of the artists you’ve come to know and love will showcase their wares, and three new artists will be introduced. Come start your Christmas shopping while searching for that special one-of-a-kind item. Artists will be featuring custom creations such as jewelry, paintings, pottery, scarves, handmade soaps, leather goods, honey, wooden bowls and baskets, and so much more.

“We have given a lot of thought about this year’s Holiday Arts Market and Open House,” said Jeanne Harrel, manager of For Arts’ Sake Gift Shop. “After talking to our artists and artisans, the vote was overwhelming to have the event. With so many businesses already open and serving our community we felt that we too could offer this year’s Arts Market safely and with some social distancing. Masks will be required by everyone walking in the doors. We’ll have fresh air circulating in all areas, and hand sanitizer will be located throughout the entire building. Our goal is to provide a safe and clean environment for our artists and our shoppers, and for all to enjoy the market and begin the holiday spirit.”

Women For the Arts will provide spiced cider and prewrapped treats to help fortify shoppers. A new feature this year will also be joining the market. A local food truck, will be serving delicious homemade entreés both days of the Arts Market. LOT 1620, owned by Daisy & Oscar Hernandez, will be parked behind the Arts Center in the Farmers Market area. Everyone is urged to check them out.

The Holiday Arts Market has become a holiday tradition in Texarkana starting 12 years ago when TRAHC wanted to offer a place for local artists to showcase their artistry to the public. The annual Holiday Open House at the Regional Arts Center became the perfect place for this event.

Those needing a wheelchair accessible entrance are urged to use the new ramp located at the back of the Regional Arts Center building. Additionally, the building has an elevator inside to reach all three floors for shopping, as well as stairs.

For more information about the event, please call the Regional Arts Center at 903-7928681 or Jeanne Harrel at 903-277-3404.

One-of-a-kind custom creations by artists and artisans available during the Holiday Arts Market & Open House set for December 4 - 5

2020 ARTISTS

and Mike Bobbit

Glenda Griffin – honey 7. Joseph Raymond – artist 8. Mathew Cornelius – knives

Rob and Brandy Zimmerman –laser designs

Vicki Avery – doll clothes

Kathy Madison – blown glass and jewelry

16. Kay Reynolds – ornaments and holiday designs

17. Donald Barfield – wood turner

18. Roger Tipon – wood turner

19. Four States Regional Art Club –artists

20. Polly Cook – ceramics and art

22. Gabrielle and Gary Bachers –scarves and art

23. Lisa Clark – copper enamel jewelry

24. Chris Thomas – pottery

25. Peggy Whisenhunt – jewelry

26. Denise Bolster – pottery

27. Donna Corb – eco-dyed natural fabrics

28. Leitha Herring – jewelry

29. Debbie James – doodle stitch

30. Tammy Pruitt – leather and jewelry

31. Joyce Parry – pottery

32. Monica and Dennis Sartin – soaps

33. Nan Waits – jewelry

34. Sarah Wright – jewelry

35. Joel Wright – artist

36. Andy Dodez - hiking sticks

TRAHC was formed in 1978 by community leaders with generous assistance from the Junior League of Texarkana. TRAHC’s goals are to protect our own cultural resources and help empower local artists. TRAHC is both a presenter and a preserver of historical legacies for the Perot Theatre and Regional Arts Center.

Women for the Arts was established in 1984 as a division of TRAHC. Women for the Arts (WFA) partners with TRAHC to grow a strong arts-rich community through financial support and volunteerism. WFA has raised and donated nearly $2,000,000 over the past years with fundraisers such as The Art of Fine Dining, The Picassos Tea and Party with Picassos. The money has supported TRAHC’s art programs and classes for children in our area. WFA is over 300 volunteers strong, involving women of all ages; our membership is open.

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WEST BOWIE COUNTY ROTARY CLUB HOSTS RUN THE RAIL HALF-MARATHON

The West Bowie County Rotary Club held its fifth annual Run the Rail Half-Marathon on October 10. This event kicked off at #1 Trail Head Park in New Boston. A post-race celebration with chicken fajitas and all of the fixings took place at the finish line.

Judge Jeff Addison and Jason Barker

Blake Erie and Aaron Borah

Larry Schmidt and Jim Lewis

Marlene Chapman and Tammy Boyd

Carly Anderson with Judge Jeff and Susan Addison

Louis Terrell and Brad Moore

Carrol Griggs and Debbie Wood

Dr. Mark and Caroline Sutherland

Jessica Yates and Rozanna Dallas

Don Brown and Lindsay Eulenfeld

Landon Huffer and Chris Schroeder Louis Terrell and Cade Mayo

Judge Craig Henry and Chris Fountain

Lane and Jullia Lennon

Adam Vernon and Kevin Cauley

Susan Addison and Robin Daley

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

TO REACH EVERY YOUTH GOLF TOURNAMENT

To Reach Every Youth (T.R.E.Y.) held its 7th annual golf tournament fundraiser on September 26 at Texarkana Golf Ranch. To Reach Every Youth was started by Vicki Westmoreland (along with friends and family members) after losing her son, Trey Sutton, in 2010 to a very rare form of cancer, sarcoma. Proceeds from the event go toward sarcoma research and to help young adults ages 16-30 in the four states area who have been diagnosed with sarcoma. For more information call Vicki at 903-293-4771.

Photos by The Feathers Nest Photography

Wyatt Varvil, Jaden Durham, Cade Lindsey and Brent Hughes Tim Crumpler, Jerry Ramsey, Mason Harding and Hayden Lindsey

Kevin Westmoreland, Dr. Erik Jacobsen, Shane Crabtree and Dr. Bo Kelley

Billy Sutton, Corey Sutton, Rhett Von Sutton, Hayley Sutton, Nathan Westmoreland, Vicki Westmoreland and Kevin Westmoreland

Corey Calicott, Alex Calicott and Dwayne Ennis

Shannon Whitt and Madison Loucks

Zach Lawrence, Mark Fomby, Logan Lespcher and Joel Green

Bryan Elkins, Jared Bristow, Tyler Bailey and Jayme Bristow

David Wall, Milam Albright, Mayor Bob Bruggeman and Scott Willige

Steven Rogers, Jeff Greening and Casey Hanes

Nathan Westmoreland, Chet Green, Levi Graham and Garrett Clark

Cole Pedron, Tyler McElwee, Bo Johnston and Wade Pilgreen

Damon Whitt, Zach Clapp, Billy Whitt and Keith Beason

Taylor Hedrick, Will Bowling, Eric Osborne and Colby Hall

Patton Crank, Jay Castle, Jeff Castle and Kyle DeLaughter

Scott Flanagan, Jeff Butler, Chase Stormes and Benton Carter

Thomas Dickens, Braxton Langdon, Trey Dickens and Marshall Moore

photo by ALAMOND PHOTOGRAPHY

AFTER MANY MEMBERS OF THEIR FAMILY CONTRACTED COVID-19, JERRA AND JASON GIACOMONI ARE THANKFUL

FOR THE MANY PEOPLE WHO HELPED THEM WHEN THEY NEEDED IT MOST

by JILEEN PLATT

“It’s a minor setback for a major comeback.”

Nurses told Jerra Giacomoni these words in early July 2020 when her husband, Jason, was placed back on mechanical ventilation after an attempt at extubation. Jason was in the COVID unit at CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System. It had been 13 days since Jason had been diagnosed with COVID-19, five days since he had been admitted, and two and a half days since he had first been intubated.

“I was devastated,” explains Jerra. “I was so excited because he was off, and then I found out he had to be back on. It was such a letdown.”

Adding to the devastation at that time was Jerra’s father, John Allen Powers, Jr., passing away two weeks prior due to complications with congestive heart failure. “I had lost the man I first loved, and I didn’t want to lose the second one … I needed [my husband] back home and healthy.

“My dad had been in the hospital for 20 days, a short transfer to rehab, and then back to the hospital,” explains Jerra. Her father was brought home with hospice care on June 22 and died at home, five hours later. It was the day after Father’s Day.

“It was a very emotional week for us. None of us were sleeping well, and we were super busy with arrangements,” states Jerra. “I had a headache and felt completely drained.” Looking back, Jerra remembers someone bringing over a meal with green beans. “I could not taste them.”

After physically feeling like they had been “run over by a truck,” Jerra and her sister determined that something else might be the cause. On June 27, they both tested positive for COVID-19. “I was devastated and humiliated. I had to tell all these people that came to show their love and support [at the funeral] that we had COVID and could have exposed them,” Jerra explains.

Events surrounding Jerra’s father’s death, rosary, memorial service, and all that happens when families and friends gather to mourn, created a setting in which they unknowingly contracted and passed COVID-19 to each other.

Over the next several days, family and friends of the Giacomonis felt varying symptoms of COVID, including their children, Madison and Mason, who had only a runny nose. Jason Giacomoni, unfortunately, was one of the worst. By July 5, he had a fever of 103. “I wanted to eat, but I couldn’t because I couldn’t breathe. I was gasping for air … I didn’t realize it would get that bad,” states Jason.

Jerra drove Jason to CHRISTUS St. Michael. “Walking to the ER door was the most physical activity I’d done in days,” explains Jason. “I was given a wheelchair … I felt like I was suffocating.”

Due to COVID restrictions, Jason entered the hospital by himself. After x-rays and blood tests, Jason showed an elevated white blood cell count and was

Jerra FaceTimes with Jason while he was in the hospital in the COVID unit.

Jerra and Jason enjoy a night out on October 9, right before Jason left to go to South Louisiana for storm restoration.

Jason with Mason and Madison at Walk-Ons after his first time back at church on August 9, 2020.

diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs. Later, he was transferred to a bed in the medical ICU COVID unit.

Early on the morning of July 7, Jerra was notified that medical staff had sedated and intubated Jason. “They told me that Jason had been put on a ventilator,” states Jerra. “I was in shock! When you think of a ventilator, you think of life support … how did it get so bad in so little time?”

Jason started at 85% oxygen and continued to fight a fever. Hydroxychloroquine, Dexamethasone, three antibiotics, Vitamin C, Zinc, three sedation medications, and various other treatments were administered. He had an arterial line to monitor blood pressure, a feeding tube, and a PICC line to give multiple IV medications simultaneously. Eventually, Jason was given plasma from a recovered COVID patient.

Nurses answered Jerra’s questions about any updates. “They made me feel so content and calm … I knew he was in caring and loving hands.” One nurse, Brittany, helped take care of Jerra’s father in the ICU and was now helping Jason. “She asked if we wanted to FaceTime with Jason,” states Jerra. While Brittany held the phone, Jerra saw Jason for the first time in days. “It was a moment of overwhelming shock to see your husband, your best friend, the father of your children … being hooked up to a machine that is breathing for him!” exclaims Jerra. “There were so many tubes.”

Over the next several days, Jason’s need for oxygen varied but typically stayed around 60%. His temperature finally normalized, and his vitals stabilized. By July 11, his sedation medicines were lessened, and he could squeeze nurses’ hands to communicate. By the next day, while still on a ventilator, he wrote messages on paper to “talk” to his family on FaceTime or to express his thanks to medical staff.

Two days later, a physical therapist helped Jason sit on the side of his bed – a big achievement for Jason and very challenging. On July 14, his oxygen was reduced to 40%, and he was on minimal ventilator support. The next day, he was taken off mechanical ventilation entirely.

“I was moved to a regular COVID isolation room for four days,” states Jason. At that point, aware of his surroundings, Jason struggled with the seclusion. “The social bond we share with people is what holds us together as humans, and not being able to receive that from my loved ones was heartbreaking,” Jason explains. “I needed my wife to hold my hand to tell me we were going to make it. I needed that unconditional

love from her. I needed her warmth.” And while FaceTiming is excellent to see and hear loved ones, Jason felt that it made the distance seem further. “I couldn’t feel that warmth … with a screen on my phone.”

Sickness and reduced movement took a toll on Jason’s body. “I had to learn how to walk again … it was hard to find my feet,” states Jason. He improvised while sequestered in his room in the COVID unit. “I walked the square floor tiles back and forth.”

Jason also had concerns about his breathing. “When I was on the ventilator I felt like I had to relearn how to breathe … and even more so after I was off. I remember asking [the nurses] to watch me breathe and wondered if I was doing it right.”

On July 20, Jerra, Madison, and Mason drove to the hospital to pick up their husband and father and bring him home. “It was the first day we had seen him in real life in 14 days! We had tears in our eyes … we got him in the car and hugged him,” exclaims Jerra.

During the lengthy hospital stay, Jason lost 30 pounds and significant muscle mass. “The first few days home I rested,” remembers Jason. “Soon after getting home I started walking the neighborhood … I didn’t want to just hope I would get better. I wanted to work hard and do my part.” Getting back to normal as quickly as possible was a priority. “We walked as a family twice a day,” states Jerra. After she went back to work, Jason and the kids walked together every morning, and the family walked in the evening. Jason started jogging by himself, then running around the block two to three times as he continued to recover and gain strength.

When asked about his experience, Jason speaks of gratitude. “We are so grateful to all who helped us … friends, family, and many we don’t even know,” states Jason. Jerra posted their story and asked for prayers on Facebook, resulting in 1,000 comments and over 500 shares. “We had food brought to us … our neighbor mowed the lawn … my family was taken care of when I was incapacitated,” exclaims Jason. “There are really good people in Texarkana.”

Jason has enormous gratitude for those who helped at the hospital, too. “The care and downright love I received from incredible therapists, nurses, doctors … even the people that clean the rooms, cook the hospital meals, and keep the hospital’s equipment functioning … I am very blessed and grateful to those people that helped me get back

to my family,” expresses Jason.

“[The medical staff] also got me back to doing something that I am passionate about, and that is being a power lineman,” states Jason, who has worked as a lineman for 15 years. He is currently employed by Primoris T&D in Shreveport. Jason loves his job, sincerely finds joy serving others in that capacity, and finds a true camaraderie with his crew as they restore power near and far. “The most amazing thing to me is coming together as one big team to restore something we can’t live without.”

Jason was unable to work for 12 weeks during his illness and recovery, in part due to a 14-day quarantine and also because his employer was cautious about returning to strenuous work in hot weather. As soon as Jason was back to work, his crew was sent to the Gulf to help restore power after the devastation of Hurricane Sally. “I was very fortunate to get my life back to be able to provide for my family … and to give back to so many people during a hurricane is such a rewarding experience for me.” Jason recently returned from helping out after Hurricane Delta, as well.

Jason continues to experience some effects from his illness. “I still have some fatigue.” In addition, he experiences some “brain fog” and anxiety that he’ll get COVID again. “It was a very traumatic experience.”

Jason certainly had a setback in his life when he suffered the effects of COVID and was hospitalized. But just like the encouragement that nurses told Jerra at the beginning of Jason’s battle … “It’s a minor setback for a major comeback.” Jason is definitely here, serving Texarkana and beyond, and making a MAJOR comeback.

All but two of the family members in this photo (taken last Thanksgiving) tested positive for COVID-19. Pictured are: (front row) Axel Diaz and Sarah Hurst; (second row) Madison Giacomoni, Allen Powers, Mason Giacomoni and Katie Diaz; (third row) Sherry Powers, Sheree Giacomoni, Jerra Giacomoni and Armando Diaz; (back row) Travis Stone, Mark Giacomoni and Jason Giacomoni.

This family photo was taken at CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System on July 20, 2020, right after Jason was released from the hospital.

A lineman for the past 15 years, Jason is thankful that he was able to return to work and give back to many people during Hurricane Sally and Hurricane Delta.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

RED, BLUE & U FISH FRY SPONSORED BY USW LOCAL 752L

This year’s Red, Blue & U Fish Fry, sponsored by USW Local 752L took place October 1 at the Local Union Hall on Cooper Tire Road. This annual event is held to recognize and show support of local firemen, police officers, and EMTs, by providing them with a free fish dinner. This event raised $2,000, and proceeds benefitted United Way of Greater Texarkana.

Darrin Turner and Jessie Keeton

Corey Durham, Reece Jones, Jim Wall and Tate Gore

Tony Thompson, Jon Brown and Kerry Halter

Keith Cragg, Weldon Thomason and Eva Sloan

Cindy Thomason, Darrin Turner, Nancy Peavy, LaVaughn and Brenda Cook

Mark Bledsoe, Molly Riley and Greg Capps

Jay Wilson, Jojo Rawlinson, Doug Burns and Mickey Watts

Tami Eakin and Amy Schulz

Shunta Turner and Darrin Turner

Cole Roberts, Mark Gilliam and Robert Branch

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

LEADERSHIP TEXARKANA FALL PARTY

Leadership Texarkana partners, members, and graduates attended the 10th annual Fall Party on October 13 at the Texarkana Convention Center. The class of 2020 was celebrated, and the class of 2021 was introduced. Dr. Mary Ellen Young was presented the Idalee Hawkins Leader of the Year Award by last year’s honoree, Sonja Hubbard.

Amber Stewart, Molly Riley and Sheree Potter Dana Scott, David Reavis and Sonja Hubbard

Jennell Ingram and Jo Ann Rice

Rachael Potter and Dr. Mary Ellen Young

Joe Thomas and Eric Cain

Toney Favors, Lila Walker and Patti O’Bannon

Sarah Carpenter, Amanda Graham, Amber Stewart and Christiane Irvin

Tiffani Neal, Jeff Neal and Jason Ross

Jennifer Teeters and Russell Sparks

Robert and Denise Hernandez

Toney Favors, Dr. Jason Smith and Michael Stephenson

Crystal McDonald, Monica Kelley and Stephanie Pankey

Mark Missildine, Dana Scott and Jaimie Alexander

Ruth Ellen Whitt and Jennifer Montoya

Yuliana Gonzalez and Jennifer Davis

Rob and Lisa Sitterley with Bethany and Kevin Gaddy

Jenny Walker and Mashon Phillips

John David Goins, Kevin Sherman and Scott Felps

Mason White, Cameron Flores and Cori Jackson

BUXTON,

OWNERS, WHITNI AND BRYANT ALLEN

TEXARKANA RESOURCES TRAINEE, JAMES

LOVES WORKING FOR HEAT IT UP

JOB The Right Person for the

by SUZY TURNER

Being valued and appreciated as an important member of society is the #1 goal of most human beings. Inclusion means giving people the opportunity to fully participate in every facet of life, regardless of their circumstances. Texarkana is fortunate to have several businesses in and around this area who believe in integrated employment for all. These employers have policies in place to remove barriers for those with physical, mental, and intellectual disabilities. The efforts of Texarkana Resources for the Disabled, Inc., and Heat It Up’s owners, Whitni and Bryant Allen, have helped one Texarkana resident to reach his highest potential while learning valuable life skills. When asked what having gainful employment at Heat It Up means to him, 57-yearold James Buxton replies, “I am as independent as I can possibly be.”

Texarkana Resources for the Disabled, Inc., is the result of growth of a program that was established over 50 years ago to help individuals with disabilities to help themselves. The mission of the organization is to provide education, training, and support to enable all persons with disabilities to reach their highest level of potential and self-sufficiency within the community. They do this by offering a variety of programs

including life skills training, vocational training, residential living, and employment training and support.

As the very first resident at Texarkana Resources when it began its independent living program, James was the first trainee in the nonprofit’s new vocational training program location in 1979. A year and a half ago, James made the decision to seek integrated employment within the Texarkana community. Although it is nearly unheard of for an individual who has been in a segregated setting for that many years to transition into the community, James had the confidence to pursue a career. With encouragement from the Texarkana Resources staff, James transitioned to the Supported Employment Program and started working on skills that he would need to get a job within the community, including resumé writing, job searching, completing applications, and interview skills.

Texarkana Resources CEO, Jennifer Lewis, explains about the organization’s Supported Employment Program. “We strive to close the gap in the unemployment disparity between those with disabilities and those without. We do this by using a

Anyone interested in employing a Texarkana Resources trainee is urged to call Jen Mugno, Supported Employment Specialist, or Erica Chapman, Chief Program Officer, at 870-774-9675.

method of customized employment. We meet with employers to discover what their employment needs are specific to their business. Then we match them with an employee with a disability in our program that has the skills, strengths, abilities and interests to do the job,” she says. No cost job coaching services are provided to interested individuals, meaning the employer gets the staff qualified in working with an individual with a disability to learn the job at no cost to the employer. Employers, in turn, get to save time and money on training and obtain an even more qualified staff.

A customer of Heat It Up, a healthy meal prep service, Jennifer approached the business’s owners, Whitni and Bryant Allen, about any employment needs they might have and explained to them what Texarkana Resources is all about. A few weeks later, when Jennifer was in to get her morning smoothie, Whitni let Jennifer know that she and Bryant had been thinking about the program and wanted to hire a Texarkana Resources trainee. “When we started looking to hire someone to help us at Heat It Up, we knew the right fit would be someone who didn’t look at Heat It Up as just a job,” Bryant says. “Everyday, we get up not to go to work but to have fun doing what we love to do.” Jennifer discussed the specific needs of Heat It Up with Whitni and Bryant, and then she met with Jen Mugno, Texarkana Resources’ Supported Employment Specialist, who felt that James was a good fit for the job because of his skills, strengths, and abilities. Jen approached James about the proposition, and he was very interested. He then dropped off a resumé, agreed to an interview, and the rest is history. “When we met James for an interview, we knew he would be a great fit!” Whitni explains. “James is the best! He works hard, is always in a happy mood, and we consider him to be one of our closest friends. He is just as passionate and proud of his work here as we are, and that is a rare trait to find.”

Since August 28, James has been a direct employee of Heat it Up, and he hopes to remain employed there until time for his retirement. His duties include placing labels on the meal boxes, washing and sanitizing dishes, storing them appropriately, mopping the floor, and taking out trash. Proud of the fact that he gets to work in an integrated employment setting, James says with a smile, “The owners are really nice, and I get to meet people and make more money.” Thank you, James, for being a contributing member of society, and thank you to the Allens for giving James this great opportunity to be the best he can possibly be.

James enjoys his duties at Heat It Up, such as putting labels on the products

Mopping and sweeping the floors are part of the tasks that James performs as a direct employee at Heat It Up.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

“HITCHCOCK ON THE LAWN” HOSTED BY TEXARKANA MUSEUMS SYSTEM

The Texarkana Museums System’s “Hitchcock on the Lawn” was held October 17 on the Ace of Clubs House lawn. The iconic movie, “Rear Window” was shown at sundown. Refreshments were served, and attendees dressed as their favorite character from any Hitchcock movie.

Holly Swecker and Tyler Fleming

Denise Dancer and Rick Hall

Jamie Simmons, Tina Shearman, Velvet Cool and Burgandy Farris

Sarah and Michael Middleton

Crissy Spearman and Keith Pennington

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

CASA HOSTS EDGE OF TEXAS GOLF TOURNAMENT

CASA’s 15th annual Edge of Texas Golf Tournament was held September 28 at Northridge Country Club. Proceeds benefitted CASA and the Texarkana Children’s Advocacy Center, helping to fulfill their mission of providing hope, healing, and justice to abused and neglected children in the community. First flight winners included teams sponsored by Super Bingo, John Crisp, and Horatio State Bank. Second flight winners included teams sponsored by Mercy Carter LLP, Tom Moore, and Jerry Rochelle, Bowie County District Attorney.

Horatio State Bank: Jerry Rochelle, Michael Griffin, Bruce Hornbuckle and Derrick Giles

John Crisp: Chris Richards, John Crisp, Collins Bruner and Mike Horn

Diamond Bank: Drew Mims, Cody White, Josh Kurtz and Clayton Wisdom

Jeff Prieskorn: Jeff Prieskorn, Ray Sandefur, Jordan Cox and David Mims

Bowie County DA: Jason Smith, Garth Parker, Von Stafford and Aaron Ragland

CHRISTUS: Wayne East, Clare Donohoe, Fred Brantley and Brad Deaton

Eagle Dental Center: Brandon Lloyd, Hunter Bobo, Tim Firth and Dalton Heath

Heritage Home Health & Hospice: Tommy Dixon, Blake Rich, Brian Barr and Daniel Ludwig

Brad Davis, Brandi Eldridge and Jon Sheppard Haley Roeser and Bianca Jones

Lawrence Pest Control: Stan Lawrence, Brian Howard, Robbie Smith and Heath Lawrence

Mercy Carter: Scott DuBois, Richard Bird, Chuck Cowling and Clark Arnold

Texas Farm Bureau Insurance: Braxton Langdon, Trey Dickens, Chris Baca and Kevin Crites

Young & Thornton Insurance & Financial Services: Bubba Ashby, Gus Thornton, Todd Tye and Matt Clark

State Bank: Mike Rogers, Jason Gross, Brad Davis and Cody Deal

Malenda Cree and Misty Honea

White & Marks: Jake Potter, Tye Shelton, Casey Boyette and Frank Halter

Riata Land & Cattle: Lauree Romero, Elaine Flanagan, Julie Sanderson and Debbie Sheppard

Robbins Toyota: TJ Davidson, Charles Pankey, Jimmy Roeser and Randy Roeser

Sparklight Business: Chad Miot, Jared Foster, Don Hardin and Everett Moses

Super Bingo: Quentin Green, Griffin Young, Ray Norton and Trace Smith Tom Moore: Jerry Thomas, Ken King, Robin Beck and Tom Moore

Experts Ask the

JOEY MARTIN

Owner, Express Employment Professionals

Are You Persuasive At Work?

At some point in your professional career, you will need to persuade employees, clients, or peers to do a certain thing or think a certain way. You may not want to admit it, but most people want to be more persuasive in their encounters and relationships. Here are 5 quick tips to help strengthen your influencing skills:

1. Know What You Are Selling

2. Understand Your Audience

3. Stay Positive, Build Up

4. Do Not Be Pushy

5. Focus On Character

What have you done to become more persuasive?

870.773.1313 | 3206 Jefferson Ave. | Texarkana, AR

EVENTS | CALENDAR

NOVEMBER 2020

NOVEMBER 1 - JANUARY 9

“Chasing Feathers: Standing Still,” photographs by a nature lover and self-professed bird nerd, will be displayed in the Regional Arts Center on the first floor. Artist Julie Tidwell admits that she finds peace and calm behind the lens of a camera, and she approaches photography as a journalist, with intent, but open to where the story takes her. Hours for the exhibit are Thursday-Saturday, 12 noon to 4 p.m. Masks and social distancing are required for entry.

NOVEMBER 7

The Texarkana Symphony Orchestra will present “Happy Birthday, Ludwig!” during a 7:30 p.m. performance in the Historic Perot Theatre. In celebration of the 250th birthday of Ludwig van Beethoven, the performance will feature Kiril Laskarov on violin, Brett Andrews on cello, and

Tatiana Roitman-Mann on piano. Phil Mann will conduct the symphony, and a concert preview will be held at 6:40 p.m. For tickets, visit the Perot Theatre Box Office at 219 Main Street in Texarkana, Texas, call 903-792-4992, or visit: www. texarkanasymphony.org.

NOVEMBER 14

The Texarkana Area Veterans Council (TAVC) will host its annual Veterans Day Parade, starting at 11 a.m. at East Broad and Hazel Streets. All area organizations, schools, clubs, churches, and businesses are invited to participate. Call either 870-773-8279 or 877-824-4862 or email: usmcgreg@aol.com to be included in the line-up. Theme this year is “Disabled American Veterans” – 100 years” so come down and show your support for all veterans.

NOVEMBER 17-28

Labels will host its annual Storewide Sale with 30-75% off the entire store. Call 903-832-6951 for more information

To be included in the “Ask the Experts” column, contact our sales team for pricing and availability.

CARRIE TRUSTY

Director of Marketing, Cornerstone Healthy Living Community

What is a Continuing Care Retirement Community?

CCRCs provide a way for residents to truly age in place by offering independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and long-term healthcare all on one campus.

Residents can enjoy true freedom with a maintenance–free lifestyle and peace of mind for themselves and their loved ones knowing their future health needs are taken care of right where they already call “home.”

903-832-5514 | 4100 Moores Lane | Texarkana, TX | mrccornerstone.org

BEGINNING NOVEMBER 20

Season of Lights Drive-Thru Christmas Light Park and Entertainment Center will open November 20. A concession stand will be open, and a stocking stuffer store will be available, as well as a variety of family photo opportunities. Santa Claus will be there every Friday and Saturday night beginning November 27. Cost is $25 per car. The park is located at I-30 and Exit 198 in New Boston, Texas.

NOVEMBER 26

Community Healthcore Foundation will host its seventh annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the event will be held virtually this year. For more information, call Jeanell Cannon at 903-8317584, 903-319-5456, or email: jeanell.cannon@ community healthcore.com.

DECEMBER EVENTS

DECEMBER

4-5

The twelfth annual Holiday Arts Market and Open House will be hosted by the Texarkana Regional Arts & Humanities Council and Women for the Arts. This festive shopping experience will be held in the Regional Arts Center. Call Jeanne Harrel at 903-277-3404 or contact the Regional Arts Center at 903-792-8681 for information.

DECEMBER 5

Fan Fare Boutique & Gifts will host its annual Christmas Extravaganza from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Refreshments will be served, and prizes will be given away. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on-site for “Selfies with Santa” from 1:30-4:30 p.m. Call 903-832-5196 for more information.

DECEMBER 7

Main Street Texarkana will host its annual Christmas Parade, a drive-thru experience Monday, December 7, at 7 p.m. in Downtown Texarkana. For information visit www. mainstreettexarkana.com.

THE ROAD Tra veled less

BY NICHOLE HOLZE

It’s nearing the end of 2020. Can you believe it? We’ve almost made it. The effects of this year have been felt around the world. Those impacts have most heavily hit small businesses, and this year, I’d like to invite you to consider a different kind of holiday shopping. The big box retailers (both in person and online) do not need your money. Small business, creators, makers, and entrepreneurs need our help more than ever. So, this year, take the route a little less traveled, and shop small.

Here are some ideas to help support small business:

• Perhaps you weren’t able to take that vacation you’d hoped for this year. Maybe order some photo prints from a local photographer in the area you had planned to vacation. Try looking up local coffee roasters or wineries in the area, and order from them for a little holiday season treat. Order some new books from a book shop local to an area you had hoped to visit.

• One of my favorite sources to find creative entrepreneurs and makers is through Instagram. Did you know that there is a hashtag for LOCAL makers in our area?! Look it up – #txkmakers. You can also look up your zip code on the ETSY website (www.etsy.com) – the marketplace for handmade goods. Nearly all of my mugs and my jewelry have come from small businesses I have discovered through social media. It’s such a delight to open the packages when they arrive, because they were lovingly packed by the person who made them. My money is directly making someone’s day. That’s worth investing in.

• Maybe you’re not able to go out to restaurants just yet, but you will, and you can buy gift cards to those places now. In fact, almost any place has gift cards now. Local coffee shops (we have three), local breweries, local restaurants. Let’s collectively help keep things going.

• Shop local events for artists. Coming up on November 5, for that evening only, Joseph Raymond Fine Art is hosting an artist showcase that will be open for the public. It will feature 10 artists. One of my favorite events is the annual Holiday Arts Market & Open House at the Regional Arts Center, set for December 4-5 this year. Last year, I picked up what is now my favorite mug. There are three floors filled with beautiful art, crafts, and gifts all from local artists and creators.

• Shop secondhand. You’d be surprised by the lovely artwork, tea cups, interesting gifts, books, décor, and perhaps even toys you’d find. Owl’s Nest on the Boulevard and the Loop are my favorite places to peruse for unique gifts.

This has not been a year like any other. So this year, as you consider holiday gifting, I invite you to use your money a little differently this year.

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.

A favorite book shop we visited in Michigan.

My favorite mug from the TRAHC Holiday Arts Market.

A bowl from Chris Thomas Pottery.

Custom jewelry by Danyelle Woods.

Admiring a painting by Joseph Raymond at his studio in Downtown Texarkana.

Shopping at Owl’s Nest.

EXQUISITE

INTERIORS

APPEALING. WARM. COMFORTABLE.

by SUZY TURNER photos by KIM MCMURRY

Built around 1975, this beautiful 4 bedroom, 3-1/2 bath traditional home has been revitalized to suit its owner’s wants and needs. She originally wanted a “new” house, but decided she did not want to build from the ground up, so she gathered her resources to make this 3,500 square foot beauty her forever home. Located in a safe neighborhood in the Northridge area with large oak trees on almost an acre of land was also a definite plus and satisfied the desires of the owner.

With the help of decorator, Jackie James, the home is delicately designed with classic color schemes and intricate patterns which harmonize perfectly, giving her home a cohesive look. New overhead lighting from Logan Electric gives every room a soft, warm glow effect. Roman shades, grommet top curtains, and pinch pleat drapes by Charlotte Cook play a huge role in the overall design of the rooms, creating visual focal points while expressing the owner’s personal style. Lawrence Block with “Let It Shine” added his personal touches while keeping the windows sparkling clean and transparent.

The open-concept modern kitchen offers granite countertops, stainless appliances, slate backsplash, and pinstriped cabinets built by Dennis Saulsbury and painted by Gary Williams. Decorative cabinet hardware from Red River Lumber adds classic style to the updated kitchen area. A pullout tabletop folds out from the nook offering additional seating for guests. A dough roller, made by the owner’s

grandfather, adds a bit of nostalgia while utensils given to her by her grandmother bring back memories of yesteryear.

The living area features jewel tones and beautiful candelabra table lamps. A painting by the owner’s mother is strategically placed in the living area, offering a visually pleasing piece of art with intense pops of color. The transitional sitting area features elegant furniture from Four States Furniture and offers a place to sit and relax at the end of the day.

Beautiful neutral carpet from The Carpet Shoppe adds pizazz in the master bedroom. The Ralph Lauren four-poster bed features rich wood tones and adds charm and character to the room. A geometric patterned sleigh bench sits conveniently at the end of the bed, providing the perfect space for relaxing or dressing. The master bath offers dual sinks while a massive tile shower sits in one corner.

Eldon Flanagan with Texarkana Tent & Awning created a relaxing patio area off the back of the house. Comfortable seating from Four States Furniture is the perfect spot to sit and enjoy the contemporary backyard area. Entertaining is a breeze (literally) while enjoying the beautiful landscape and outdoor fireplace.

Simple and sophisticated, this traditional home has gone through a huge transformation; however, its timeless design still offers functionality and adaptability. Its colors are calm and soothing while its furnishings are highly functional and will last for years to come.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

TEXARKANA USA REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

HOSTS SMALL BUSINESS EXPO

The Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce hosted a Small Business Expo on October 15 on Main Street in front of the Perot Theatre and Pecan Point. Vendors were set up, a food truck provided meals, Kicker played music, and a friendly competition of games was held between Texarkana Texas Mayor Bob Bruggeman and Texarkana Arkansas Mayor Allen Brown.

Keith Beason and Chris Ross

Cody Adams and Suki O’Neal Cody LaRose and Stephanie Pankey

Annemarie Sullivan, Leah Hooper and Bren Gonzales

Brittney Brookes, Laura Lile and Natalie Haywood Katherine Scrivner and Stephanie Hawkins

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

TELFORD UNIT JOB FAIR

The Telford Unit in New Boston, Texas, held a Job Fair on October 3 in the parking lot of CashSaver on New Boston Road, in Texarkana, Texas. The prison is looking for part-time and full-time employees.

Kymberli Barrett, Major Samuel Adams, Bess Gamble-Williams, Warden Ralston Marshall and Danny McQuinn

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

WRIGHT PATMAN CHAPTER OF CREDIT UNIONS SUPPORTS TEXARKANA USA CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

Wright Patman Chapter of Credit Unions recently partnered with the Texarkana USA Circle of Friends to support Arkansas Children’s. This year due to COVID-19, those efforts have been delayed. The COF chapter was thrilled to receive a $3,000 donation from the credit unions to kick off its FY 21 fundraising.

Brittaney Rossum, Dena Ashby, Dean Ransdell, Carla Moon and Summer Nelson

RAISING MY TRIBE

by A li D e A l

This Thanksgiving will be one for the books. Thanksgiving during a pandemic. Sounds like a Norman Rockwall painting. I think a “wonderful” thing to do for the ending of this trash can of a year will be to gather ALL of the American families together, people coming from near and far, and sit around elderly people’s tables, serving each other one gigantic potluck. There aren’t enough serving pieces and paper plates made in America and China combined to keep this thing sanitary. This might be the one year in history that a McDonald’s meal is probably the safest alternative for Thanksgiving. And if I am saying that, you know it’s bad.

Oh yeah, and right after Thanksgiving, when symptoms start showing around day 5, let’s make sure that hits on a normal Wednesday in public school. By then, we would have exposed everyone Monday and Tuesday and send the numbers SKY ROCKETING! And then we will act surprised.

Let’s also, not even touch the fact that it is a Thanksgiving during an election year. Lord, let Xanax and Wellbutrin rain down like manna from the heavens! People are all kinds of fired up. And one relative always wants to push the envelope, even if they agree with you.

This month’s theme is about blessings and being thankful. I am definitely both this year. Most of us probably feel blessed to make it this far into 2020. I really did treasure my life during the shelter-in-place and loved my glimpse into “Little House on the Prairie.” I loved pretending to be Ma Ingalls.

However, Ma Ingalls isn’t living in the 21st century. As my last column stated, I was one of the first moms bursting through those school doors when the governor announced we could start back. This pandemic has forced me into being “blessed and thankful”; however, the one word I want to conquer is “balance.” Balance is something, as a mom, I just cannot master. Is it even possible?

I’ve got one child who needs a low carb diet. I have one child who needs a high calorie diet. Try cooking dinner at my house.

Speaking of dinner, one night I’m grinding my own dried chilis to make my own chili powder for a recipe, while a few nights ago, everyone went to bed eating Goldfish crackers

and vitamins for dinner.

One child is on a homeopath journey to fix an issue they are having. I flood them with Chinese herbs twice a day. Another child has alarms going off in the house starting at 6:30 a.m. to make sure they get their meds prescribed from their MD. My house is where Eastern and Western medical worlds meet.

I make my kids take a shot every morning: apple cider vinegar, fresh ginger root, and lemon. Well, guess what. Lemons dissolve all the medications that one child takes. Found that out the hard way! Chalk it up to 2020.

Two of my kids will knock you over trying to receive attention. One hides behind me, and I have to bribe him to talk. That is probably the reason he just told someone he has “about 120 monster trucks.”

One looks better with their hair washed every single day. One looks better the longer I let it go without washing.

One sets an alarm for 6 a.m. every morning and has since kindergarten. One has NEVER waken up once on their own and once slept until 1:30 p.m. as a 5-year-old. Mornings are unpredictable over here.

I keep thinking I can get to this point where I can start coasting as a mom. Maybe everyone will get on the same page eventually. It hasn’t happened yet. And I don’t think it ever will. And I’m TORN. Everyone needs to get on the same page.

A friend and I were discussing this, and she told me that I should just expect to live the rest of my life “in the torn.” This means I’m just going to reside in the middle. Of everything. My opinions, balancing my kids, their Eastern and Western meds, our alarm clocks, elections … I’m living my life “in the torn.”

And now, Thanksgiving is here. And it’s a weird one. And we have all this stuff to worry about.

And it will be okay to “live in the torn” about Thanksgiving, too. It’s going to be a hard decision for a lot of people, and if you are struggling just remember, as this issue states, we can be thankful, count our blessings, and give ourselves the freedom to “live in the torn!” AND, let’s chalk it all up to 2020!

Always witty and fun, Ali Deal is a part-time hairdresser/counselor and full-time mom to three

crazy everyday life in

“House

and sharing stories about

children. She enjoys writing

her

the

of Deal.” Among her many talents, she serves as a partner-in-crime to her husband Cody, pancreas to John Morris, nurse to Rosemary, and baby whisperer to James.

A Pinch of Salt

by Donnie Spriggs

This article more than likely grabbed your attention based on the fact that it said wine. I am not even mad about it, either. Not that it is a bad thing! It is just funny that you know all the good things that come from cooking with wine. A little pour there to bring out some flavors, and a little pour into your glass just to keep you sane through the holiday cooking. Lots of times when you see cooking articles, you skim them and think “I can’t do that.” I can guarantee you can do this!

With online grocery shopping, you can easily log into your Albertsons app (my preference, of course) and go through this list and add to your cart. No more searching aisles for things you may have used once or never used at all. Add it to your cart, and maybe add an extra bottle of wine to help calm your nerves on conquering this new recipe. Cannot wait to see how it turns out for you guys! Add it to your Instagram and tag me @dspriggs or @fourstatesliving. Happy cooking, my fellow foodies!

MAKES

1 turkey

ACTIVE TIME

30 mins.

TOTAL TIME

24 hrs. Add an additional 8 hours to allow the turkey to dry out in the refrigerator.

INGREDIENTS

1 qt. vegetable stock

1½ cups kosher salt

6 bay leaves

2 Tbsp whole black peppercorns

1 Tbsp mustard seeds

1 bottle dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)

2 large shallots, thinly sliced

8 cloves garlic, crushed but left in the skins

1 bunch (handful) fresh thyme

2 lemons, sliced (optional)

Cold water (enough to cover turkey)

1 (16-lb) turkey, giblet package and neck removed

DIRECTIONS

Bring the vegetable stock, salt, bay leaves, peppercorns, and mustard seeds to a boil. Stir until salt is dissolved. Cool to room temperature.

Pour the brine into a 5-gallon stock pot or container. Pour in the bottle of wine or a little more, then add the shallots, garlic, thyme, and lemons. Slowly lower in the turkey.

Pour enough cool water into the pot to cover the turkey. Place lid on the pot and refrigerate for at least 24 hours.

For a crispier crust – Remove the turkey from the brine the night before, pat it dry, and place on a baking sheet in the refrigerator uncovered overnight.

COOKING TIME

Cook for an average of about 2 or 3 hours per pound ... more towards two hours per pound if it is not stuffed. Turkeys that are stuffed take about 5 hours per pound to ensure the stuffing is complete. If your turkey is at 160-170 degrees, it is done. You can check by using a food grade thermometer. It will normally take overnight to cook a turkey low and slow.

Donnie Spriggs is a longtime resident of Texarkana, Texas. He has been in the restaurant industry since he was 16 and has been with Silver Star Smokehouse since 2014. He is a student at Texas A&M-Texarkana where he is part of the BAAS program. He loves people but likes food even more, mainly because food makes people happy!

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.

TYLESHA “TY” ROSS age: A lady never reveals her age (lol) ... 37 and proud occupation: Regional Community Engagement Outreach Specialist for Special Health Resources (Texarkana Care Clinic)

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

The first thing I would do hands-down would be to fully fund my community center in my old neighborhood, Beverly. I would hire adequate staff to bring activities there to help enrich those in the community that need it the most.

When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you pass the time? I love to decorate! I love to see things PRETTY!

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

My one wish would be that all would be treated equally and loved.

BRAD

GIBSON age: 35 occupation: Farmers Insurance Agent

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

Pay off my house!

When you have 30 minutes of free time, how do you pass the time? I enjoy playing outside with my son.

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

To rid myself of Type 1 diabetes.

At what business could you max out a credit card?

Hobby Lobby and GlitzyGirl Boutique.

Choose a movie title for the story of your life. “It Was Necessary!”

What are you currently watching on Netflix?

Rewatching “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Girlfriends.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go? Italy ... my 40th birthday goal.

If you could only have three apps on your smartphone, which would you pick? Bible app. Pandora. Shop (it tracks all my packages … lol).

What’s your favorite sport to watch, and which team do you root for? I’ve actually started watching tennis. It’s pretty interesting. They make weird noises.

At what business could you max out a credit card? Cabela’s.

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

What are you currently watching on Netflix? “Pawn Stars.”

If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go? I would go on a Canada hunting trip.

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

What’s your favorite thing about FSLM? Texas A&M football.

THANKFUL AND BLESSED”

WHAT IS THE GREATEST BLESSING YOU HAVE RECEIVED IN YOUR LIFE?

Life! That’s my greatest blessing. Life hasn’t always been fair nor easy, but I’m still here. I have an opportunity daily to love on those who love me ... just another chance to do better. I’m still not where I want to be but I’m here … I’m thankful and blessed for my life!

My greatest blessing is my family. Without them, there is absolutely no way I would be where I am today. They are always behind me whenever I need them.