Issuu

THE WAY I SEE IT ... PUBLISHER’S LETTER Robin Rogers, Ed.D.

or most of the last 30 years, every November, Four States Living Magazine has partnered with the Junior League of Texarkana (JLT) to promote the annual Mistletoe Market, a tradition that kicks off holiday shopping for many people in our area. Over the last three decades, the faces of the women volunteering have changed, but the dedication of the organization has remained the same. As a group of community-minded women—many of whom work outside the home, are married, have children, and/or have other responsibilities—the JLT pulls together the energy and focus necessary to present a holiday shopping extravaganza that raises money to support children, families, the arts, and community needs. The JLT has been instrumental in funding many of the organizations that we support in the pages of FSLM every month, but I realize that most probably don’t know that history. For example, in the 1950s, the JLT provided support to the Red Cross to start Texarkana’s first mobile blood unit; when you read in these pages about how blood donation saved Autumn Phelps’ life, recall that the JLT played a part in establishing blood donation as a new and normal thing in our community. In 1985, the JLT provided a $50,000 grant to help establish Hospice of Texarkana, the first hospice in the area. And, in the last decade, the JLT was a founding member of the Texarkana Symphony Orchestra and the Texarkana Youth Symphony Orchestra. What the women of the Junior League of Texarkana do is meet Texarkana’s needs—before most people realize there is a need—and for that, they should be commended. Other than the annual tradition of going to the Mistletoe Market, what should we do in November and December? If your answer is to “get out of town,” you are not my people. I see these two months as belonging to community, family, and home; I’m especially excited about holiday hangouts with inlaws and outlaws, family by blood or marriage and family by choice. My son and his fiancée, who currently live in Conway, now have to juggle PUBLISHER Dr. Robin Rogers INTERIM EDITOR Ellen Orr INSPIRE THE PESSIMIST EL E VAT E T H E O PT I M I S T STIR THE MIND EN T ERTA I N T H E S O U L W W W. F O U R S TAT E S L I V I N G .C O M F O U R S TAT E S L I V I N G M AG A Z I N E F O U R S TAT E S L I V I N G

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Shane Darby SALES REPRESENTATIVE Victoria Herman EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Phoebe Warren

family obligations in various cities and states, in addition to demanding work schedules in their burgeoning careers, so I try to be gracious—but the holidays are important to me, and I need to see them. They are welcome (and encouraged) to stay in my house for a week, or just a weekend, if that’s all they can spare. They can bring friends, other family members, and pets— just as long as I get to spend time with my kids, here in Texarkana, the place we all consider home, irrespective of current zip codes. I also feel strongly about promoting community events during the holiday season. In particular, I am pumped about a huge multimedia program at the Perot Theatre taking place on December 8th, exactly 150 years after the sale of the first city lots. As a member of the TXK150 committee, I have been working alongside incredible planners, historians, performers, and other eager volunteers like myself for the past 18 months to bring to life this grand finale: “Celebrating Texarkana: Experience Your Story.” The performance will showcase the Texarkana Symphony Orchestra, Two Pianos, vocalist Candace Taylor, actors, and narrators, along with photos from the past 150 years of Texarkana. The TXK150 team has been working hard to craft a show that tells the stories of our town—both the serious and the lighthearted—set to relevant music from local, professional musicians that will make you want to sing and dance (or at least tap your feet). You may hear from a young married girl, just gettin’ off the oxcart at Tex-Ark-Ana, who’ll talk all about Texarkana’s first-born baby. You also might hear Dr. Paul Whitt and Josh Lawrence perform a song from Smokey and the Bandit, or a little Johnny Cash, or an Elvis Presley bop that was surely performed at the Municipal Theatre in the ‘50s and ‘60s. Songs that you heard as a child—“Texarkana Baby” by Eddy Arnold, for instance—will definitely be performed at this celebratory event. A narrator will tell other stories, in sync with related historical images, which will be projected for the audience to enjoy. This event will be dynamic and multifaceted and unlike anything you’ve ever experienced; I am surely not doing it justice by trying to explain it here! You’ll just have to experience it for yourself. Tickets are on sale now at the Perot Theatre box office and online at their website. Anyone who loves Texarkana history will want to secure their tickets ASAP. I’m putting my head on the chopping block if it doesn’t sell out, so please attend! Bring your friends, family, neighbors, coworkers—anybody who makes this city the place you choose to live and love. You don’t want to miss this once-in-a-lifetime celebration. I truly love Texarkana history, and I will forever be thankful that a friend asked me to join this planning committee. The experiences I’ve had over the last year and a half have renewed my faith in volunteer work and reignited my passion for my vibrant, storied hometown. I look forward to seeing you at the Perot on December 8th—and, sooner, at the Mistletoe Market, November 9th through 11th. Happy Thanksgiving, and as always, thanks for reading Four States Living Magazine.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Molly Kendrick Mary Cyrus Photography Abby McWilliams Hannah Reed Chloe Sanders Katie Stone CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Brianna Baird Brent Stewart Katie Stone Lisa Porterfield Thompson Sarah Vammen

Four States Living Magazine is published the first business day of every month. © Copyright 2023 by Four States Living Magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission of the publisher. Four States Living Magazine is distributed free of charge. Direct mail subscriptions are $40.00 per year. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material contributed.

Do You Have a Story or a Photo?

We welcome information regarding topics of interest for future publications. If you have a story or photos that in some way depicts living or visiting in the Four States area and would be of interest to our readers, we want to hear from you. Call 903-792‑2262 or write: Editorial Department, Four States Living Magazine, 4104 Summerhill Square, Texarkana, Texas 75503. Comments are also welcome at our e-mail address: info@fourstatesliving.com

Want to Advertise?

Advertising rates may be obtained by contacting the Sales Department at 903792-2262, writing to Four States Living Magazine, 4104 Summerhill Square, Texarkana, Texas 75503, visiting our website www.fourstatesliving.com or emailing our Sales Department at info@fourstatesliving.com.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

CONTENTS VOLU M E 30 • I S SU E 1 1 • NOVEM B ER 2 02 3

ON THE COVER NOVEMBER 2023

The Junior League of Texarkana’s annual Mistletoe Market will be held November 9th through November 11th at the Holiday Inn Texarkana Arkansas Convention Center. This event, which serves as the JLT’s primary fundraiser, benefits the organization’s various community service projects and grants. The 2024 event is themed “Christmas in the City” and has been organized by the women pictured on the cover.

Read In a League of Their Own on page 18.

INSIDE: CHOOSING TO BE GRATEFUL Autumn Phelps carries the greatest grief—that of a parent who lost her children. Now, she is channeling that grief into gratitude and generosity. Read Choosing to be Grateful on page 12.

TABLE OF CONTENTS Choosing to be Grateful In a League of Their Own Fab & Festive Christmas Decorations Relationships are Everything The Gift that Keeps on Giving Making Waves of Change

12 18 24 30 46 52

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE The Way I See It—An op-ed piece from the publisher Exquisite Interiors Events Ask the Experts Scene About Town

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

6 58 72 74 10, 22, 34, 37, 38, 40, 44, 48, 56, 70

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

SCENE ABOUT TOWN Chayta Mills and Pastor Jaimie Alexander

F R I E N D S O F TH E LI B R A RY H E LD TH E I R FA LL LU N C H EO N AT F I R ST U N ITE D M ETH O D I ST C H U R C H O N TH U R S DAY, O C TO B E R 1 2TH .

Front: Eileen Hensley and Peggy Fomtham; Back: Linda McDaniel, Sandra Bell, and Suzy Heath

Judge Sherry Hawkins, Camille McGinnis, and Jeanie Conway

Pat Wagy, Amanda McJunkins, and Dixie Wilder

Pleasant Hill Quilters: Oteria McDaniel, Frances Miller, Sharon Haynes, Flo Stevenson, Evelyn Richardson, and Lawanda Warren

Shelley Lewis and Linda Larey

Pam Johnson and Paula Hawkins

Lauren Booker and Dr. Judy Sander

Nancy Duke, Nancy Price, and Ginger Jones

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Pam McDaniel and Ruby Old

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

CHOOSING to be

GRATEFUL In the face of an unthinkable tragedy, Autumn Phelps is grateful to be here and now puts her energy toward helping others

photo by SHANE DARBY

by S A R A H VA M M EN

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

rief is like a fingerprint—uniquely held, felt, and expressed by each individual person. Everyone has a different experience with grief. For Autumn Phelps, a tremendous and tragic loss is driving her to help others. Autumn, a lifelong Texarkana resident, graduated from Texas High School in 2007. She and her husband, Kyle, have been married since 2011. Together, they have one daughter, Macie-Sue, a second-grader at Red Lick Elementary School. “Macie-Sue is just the most amazing thing I’ve ever done,” Autumn said. “She’s hilarious, spunky, and tells it like it is.” Though MacieSue is Autumn’s whole world, she always dreamed of having more children. “That story really starts in March of 2015 when I gave birth to my daughter Macie-Sue via C-section,” Autumn explained. Because it was a vertical incision, Autumn knew any future pregnancies would require an early delivery to prevent uterine rupture. However, after several years of trying, Autumn and Kyle struggled to conceive more children. Autumn then directed her attention to her health. “I was the heaviest I had ever been,” Autumn said. “I was not even able to grocery shop without my whole body hurting and being out of breath.” This led her to undergo weight loss surgery in August of 2021. Since her surgery, Autumn has lost 250 pounds and more than 90 inches. Though the journey was a difficult one, it gave Autumn a Kyle, Macie-Sue, and Autumn Phelps new lease on life and created new possibilities for her family. “Now my beautiful family and I do all things together,” Autumn said. “It’s just been life-changing. I said. “That much pain, this can’t even fathom the thought of far along in pregnancy, isn’t gaining the weight back.” normal.” Prioritizing her health had The next day started another exciting benefit for smoothly. Autumn had her Autumn. Finally, after trying weekly ultrasound and received for seven years, Autumn found a clean bill of health for both her out she was pregnant on August and the babies. Unfortunately, 28th, 2022. On October 10th, the pain returned during a Hunter Blakely Phelps, 5 lbs, 6 oz and 19 inches long; she received even better news: she family dinner at Outback Stetson Nash Phelps, 8 lbs, 1 oz and 21 inches long was pregnant with twins. “The Steakhouse. This time it was excitement was unreal,” Autumn worse. Autumn’s instincts said. “My family was finally growing.” kicked in, and she knew she was in real trouble. Shortly after they made it As Autumn’s pregnancy progressed, she prepared for the likelihood home, Autumn’s uterus ruptured. of delivering the twins about eight weeks early. “We knew, with my past “I frantically called 911. Firefighters made it to me first, but there was C-section, that this was going to be tricky because we would have to deliver only so much they could do,” Autumn said. When the ambulance arrived, early, and with twins, you have to deliver early already,” Autumn explained. Autumn was bleeding out, her blood pressure was plummeting, and she was Despite that possibility, Autumn’s pregnancy was picture perfect. Both her losing consciousness. Autumn was dying. babies were healthy and growing, and she felt great. It was a dream come true. Once she was at the hospital, Autumn was again forced to wait. Because On April 16th, 2023, everything changed. Autumn began experiencing the massive blood loss was making her vision blurry and causing her to slur her sharp stomach pains and was immediately rushed to the labor and delivery floor words, medical personnel assumed she was on drugs and thus delayed treating of an area hospital. After several hours of waiting and worrying, Autumn’s pain her. After an hour of waiting, Autumn and Kyle received the devastating news was dismissed as being related to loose skin from her 250-pound weight loss. that both babies had passed away when Autumn’s uterus ruptured. Now the “I was sent home with no further inspection, instruction, or care,” Autumn race was on to save Autumn’s life, and she was rushed to surgery. N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Autumn woke up the next morning, shocked to discover that she was on a ventilator and had undergone a hysterectomy. She was lucky to be alive but hadn’t forgotten what happened to her babies. “Once I could sit up and move around, the saddest moment of my life happened,” Autumn said. “My daughter Hunter Blakely and my son, Stetson Nash, were rolled into my room. They were perfect. It made no sense to me why they weren’t alive.” Now, Autumn faced the agonizing process of planning a funeral instead of bringing her babies home.

Though Autumn’s experience was heart-wrenching and preventable, Autumn does have a great deal of gratitude for a few doctors and nurses she encountered. “Dr. Thomas Wilson, the surgeon called in to save my life, was my biggest advocate,” Autumn said. “As soon as he finished my surgery, he was demanding accountability from my medical team and couldn’t believe this had been allowed to happen to me. I owe my life to him and my anesthesiologist, Yessica.” Autumn is also grateful for the care of Anna Beth Steed, who was present at Autumn’s weekly appointments during pregnancy and dressed her babies while Autumn was intubated, as well as her ICU nurse Kamron Scott and her postpartum nurses Kim, Sierra, Kaylea, and Amy. Despite the unthinkable tragedy she endured, Autumn has never stopped thinking of others. Driven by her desire to prevent another family from facing similar pain, Autumn is taking action. “I wanted something to keep me busy this first year after losing the babies—something positive to focus on,” Autumn said. Because Autumn’s life was saved by the 7.5 pints of blood she received during her life-saving surgery, she will host a community-wide blood drive for the twins’ first birthday. “I didn’t know what I wanted the event to be at first, besides that I wanted people to donate blood. Without blood, my daughter wouldn’t have a mom,” Autumn said. “But, after thinking about it, I decided to do a whole festival.” The first annual Hunter and Stetson Memorial Scholarship Blood Drive will be held on April 20th, 2024, at 12 p.m. at the Training Station Child Development Center. In addition to a blood drive, the event will feature local vendors, face painting, bounce houses from TXK Bouncers, and food from the Dre’Licious Dishes food truck. “We will be donating the money received during the event to a local mom or expecting mom graduating from high school,” Autumn said. For Autumn, this is a productive and impactful way to channel the grief she will always have. She hopes to make a difference in the community, and particularly in maternal care. “I will always be sad, but this event is something positive I can do for others,” she said. “I hope that, by hosting this event and putting my story out there, other people will be able to come forward with their stories.” Beyond planning the Hunter and Stetson Memorial Scholarship Blood Drive, Autumn, Kyle, and Macie-Sue are focusing on healing and moving forward. “This could have easily torn us apart, but instead, it is bringing us closer together,” Autumn said. “We are choosing to be grateful that Kyle still has his wife, and Macie-Sue still has her mom.” If you are interested in event sponsorship, attending as a vendor, or nominating a high school senior who is a mother or expecting mother, please email AutumnPhelps22@gmail.com.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

IN A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN

The Junior League of Texarkana is gearing up to host its 36th annual holiday market

Back: Katelyn Jordan, Briley Hearn, Mia Ray, Meghan Akin, Jessica Musgraves, Stacy Lewis, Sherelle Flenory, Lesa Hill, Tori Luker, Collins Cockerell, Tiffany Studebaker, Haleigh Alexander, Staci Brown; front: Katie Thomas, Brianna Baird, Kelly Harvin, Victoria Herman, Madeline Robbins, Sydney Wicks, Eden Young, Allegra Grice 18

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

photo by MOLLY KENDRICK

by B R IA N N A B A I R D

et ready to jingle and mingle! Join us for a festive celebration as we kick off the holiday season at our “Christmas in the City”-themed event, Mistletoe Market. The Junior League of Texarkana is set to host its 36th annual holiday market from November 9th to November 11th at the Holiday Inn Texarkana Arkansas Convention Center. The Junior League of Texarkana, Inc. (JLT) is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. Since its formation in 1926, JLT has been instrumental in the development of community programs in Texarkana. These include Texarkana Regional Arts and Humanities Council, Hospice of Texarkana, Discovery Place Children’s Museum, Komen Texarkana Race for the Cure, Texarkana Symphony Orchestra, and Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children. In alignment with the League’s current focus area, “Children: Literacy, Hunger, and Poverty,” JLT supports Junior League members filling four community projects: bags for Packs for a Purpose. Open Hearts Food Pantry – Upon learning that secondary students do not benefit from weekend food assistance programs such as those offered to elementary children, JLT members set out to find a solution. Open Hearts Food Pantry was adopted as a project in 2018 to meet the needs of middle school students facing food insecurity. Through this project, the League provides funding Cheyanne Harris and Rachelle Cope and volunteer hours in support of Harvest dropping off to CPS Rainbow Room. Texarkana’s weekend food assistance program. Packs for a Purpose – When children leave their homes through Child Protective Services, they’re often only given a trash bag to fill with their belongings. JLT members adopted Packs for a Purpose in 2018 to meet the needs of these children. The packs contain living essentials, school supplies, and comfort items which assist in maintaining the dignity of children. Emily Markle and Audrey Anderson delivering Backpacks are filled by members and distributed to local backpacks for Packs for a Purpose. agencies twice annually. Shoes for the Soul & Clothes for a Cause – Shoes for the Soul was adopted as a project in 2005. It has since expanded to include Clothes for a Cause. With support from local Mia Ray and Staci Brown volunteering for Shoes for the schools, children in need of shoes and clothing are identified. Soul and Clothes for a Cause. JLT members shop with these deserving children to select new, seasonally-appropriate shoes and clothes. The program is offered twice annually. Teacher Take Wing – Since the 1990s, JLT has awarded grants to area teachers for innovative classroom projects through Teacher Take Wing. With support from local schools, JLT distributes grant applications to teachers at the beginning of each school year. Applications are reviewed, scored, and ranked anonymously by the Teacher Take Wing committee, and grants are awarded in the fall. In addition to giving back to the community through projects, the Junior League of Texarkana is proud to support the development of its members as civic leaders through community service and training. JLT’s active members log over 10,000 combined service hours annually, and the League budgets, on average, $20,000 for member training each Membership volunteers at Shoes for year. As part of an international network of 295 Leagues comprised of over 125,000 women the Soul and Clothes for a Cause. who are engaged in similar work in their own communities, JLT members have access to N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

a unique and powerful depth of knowledge and resourcefulness to bring about community improvement. The Junior League of Texarkana fulfills its mission through the community’s generous support of Mistletoe Market, the League’s primary fundraiser. Moreover, the event is a treasured tradition that has helped to kick off the Christmas season in Texarkana for over 35 years. The 2023 Mistletoe Market committee has been at work for months, and the members are excited to present an event that will both honor Mistletoe’s celebrated history and incorporate new ideas. From our Thursday-night kickoff party, Jingle and Mingle, to Friday morning’s Mistletoe and Mimosas brunch and Friday night’s grand entrance of Santa Claus via helicopter, along with a multitude of children’s events and an abundance of awesome vendors, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy. The Junior League of Texarkana invites all to shop, celebrate, and make memories at the 2023 Mistletoe Market.

Mistletoe Market at a Glance

photo by MOLLY KENDRICK

2023 Mistletoe Market Co-Chairs Sydney Wicks, Madeline Robbins, and Victoria Herman.

Mistletoe Market will kick off Thursday, November 9th, at 7 p.m. with our Jingle and Mingle celebration. Tickets for the event are $60 and include market admission, a gourmet meal provided by a local caterer, beer and wine selections, access to a cash bar, entertainment by Texarkana Jazz Orchestra and DJ Hollygrove, and access to a silent auction. The winner of our benefit drawing will also be selected and announced during Jingle and Mingle. One lucky recipient will win their choice of a vacation to Punta Cana, Walt Disney World, or New York City. Benefit drawing tickets are $50, and only 200 will be sold. Ticket holders need not be present to win. Tickets can be purchased at jltexarkana.org. The market will reopen Friday morning, November 10th, for the Mistletoe and Mimosas brunch from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Tickets for the event are $45 and include market admission, mimosas, brunch provided by Verona, live music by Jesse Jenkins, and private shopping. The winner of our handbag drawing will be selected and announced during this event. One lucky recipient will win a Louis Vuitton Graceful MM handbag, generously donated by Madeline Robbins and Stephanie Campbell-Bolt with Homes with Heart Team Century 21 Real Estate. Tickets are $20 each or three for $50. Make sure to get your tickets at jltexarkana. org or by scanning the QR code below. General shopping will kick off immediately following Mistletoe and Mimosas on Friday, November 10th, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and will feature performances by local school groups on stage. The food court will be open during shopping hours and will feature locally-owned food trucks. Thanks to Lifenet, Santa Claus’ grand entrance via helicopter will also take place on Friday at 6 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Texarkana Arkansas Convention Center. Weekend passes cost $10 and can be purchased at jltexarkana.org or via the provided QR code. General shopping will be available on Saturday, Scan to see all November 11th, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and will feature the children’s events performances by local music and dance groups on stage. The food court will be open during shopping hours. The children’s events—breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus, brunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus, storytime with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and family Christmas card photo shoots—will also be available throughout the day. Children’s events tickets are $30 each Scan to purchase and include one craft and a picture with Santa. If tickets at the Junior League you’re solely wanting a picture with Santa, aside from of Texarkana attending a children’s event, you can purchase that for website $10 individually. Tickets for the children’s events are limited and selling fast. Make sure to purchase yours with the QR code provided. For more information, contact a JLT member or call the League office at 870-772-9948.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

SCENE ABOUT TOWN T E X A S A& M U N I V E R S IT Y – TE X A R K A N A H E LD IT S E AG LE R O U N D U P 2 0 2 3 O N TH E U N I V E R S IT Y C E N TE R L AW N O N TH U R S DAY, O C TO B E R 5T H .

Dr. Matt and Cindy Young with Brooke and Todd Marshall

Scott and Melody Norton, Mary and Denis Washington, Erika and John Sesler, and Adam Sesler

Brittney Brookes, Elodia Witterstaetter, Liliana Luna, and Lakesha Taylor

Chef Pat Wrightner and Gwen Young

Dr. Jennifer Davis, Michael Stephenson, and Venus Lillis

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Kevin and Maggie Johnson

Dr. Doug Brubaker, Mindy Gennings, and Sherri Penix

Dr. Kasey Coggin, Liliana Luna, and Lauren Pilgreen

Aaron and Sydney Harp, Travis Garvin, and Eleanor Kemins

Jeff and Kayla Wood

Cameron Murry and Garrett Burks

Michael and Amber Galvan with Heather and Tony McKnight

Jeff and Dr. Becky Kesler

Alisha and Chase Brewster

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

SPIR N I T ED E G

FAB& FESTIVE Interior designer Brent Stewart shares tips, tricks, inspiration, and encouragement for holiday decorating by B R EN T ST E WA RT

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

hristmas lights are the beginning of most of our holiday angst. Hours are spent feverishly untangling giant nests of lights. Better yet, you plug in your pre-lit tree purchased last year to discover that only half of the tree lights up. Technology has provided a solution to all of these woes: LED cluster lights. They have an amazing 1440 lights per strand, which puts 32 lights per foot on your tree versus the standard eight lights per foot. A standard pre-lit tree compared to the same tree with just two strands of LED cluster lights added.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Now that the tree is up and lit, it’s time to think about how to add that wow factor to your holiday decor. Think outside of the ornament box! Don’t be afraid to place large items in your tree. Take a look around the house; nothing is off limits. If your look is natural and woodsy, add large limbs or branches. Don’t be afraid to go big! You might even consider using some of those taxidermy critters your husband just loves. Incorporating pieces of your snow village into your tree is another unexpected way to use decor you already own in fresh and exciting ways this holiday season.

Oversized poinsettias are one of Brent’s favorite ways to add the wow factor. “They are great space-fillers and make a fabulous statement,” he said.

Brent used a client’s pheasant in this mantle arrangement. 26

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Truly, you can add anything to your tree, as long as you make it secure. Movie posters mounted to foamcore can turn a tree into a total showstopper. Placing your ornaments in a unique pattern is also a way to add some excitement to your tree. Hanging ornaments of varying sizes in swirling pattern down the tree turns the ordinary into extraordinary. Cheers to a stress-free, fun, and exciting season of decorating. We would love to see what avant-garde ideas you come up with. Post your photos and videos on social media and tag us @fourstatesliving.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

RELATIONSHIPS ARE EVERYTHING Educator, mother, and former foster parent Haley Berry connects with kids every day by L I S A P O RT ER FI EL D T H O M PS O N

photo by SHANE DARBY

ome people know their calling from a young age; others discover their passions later on. Educator Haley Berry falls into the latter camp. “[When studying at the University of Arkansas] I had no idea what I wanted to be when I grew up,” she said. My goal was to just get a degree.” While pursuing her bachelor’s, Haley met and fell in love with a pitcher for the Razorbacks baseball team named Layne. She knew she wanted to have children with him, and that desire propelled her onto a career path. “I’ll be honest: at the time, [teaching] sounded good to me because I knew I wanted to have babies, and I wanted to be on the same schedule as they were,” Haley admitted. “It wasn’t until after I started [teaching] when I realized how strong my passion for kids really is.” Haley has worked in public education for 18 years, 15 of which have been with the Texarkana Arkansas School District. After five years of teaching kindergarten, she moved to fourth grade, before pursuing a twoyear training program to become a dyslexia interventionist. “It just never gets old, seeing those ‘ah-ha’ moments in a child’s eyes when it finally clicks, and they start to understand the connections between letters and sounds and all the crazy rules the English language has,” she said.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Then, in 2020, Haley accepted a secondary position at Arkansas High School, where she served as the graduation, credit recovery, and community service coordinator, as well as the testing coordinator. She currently serves as the 504 coordinator for the AHS campus. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is the federal legislation which prohibits publicly-funded institutions like schools from discriminating against disabled people. In the context of public education, Section 504 requires educators to provide accommodations, disability-specific services, and any needed support to all students, free of charge. “My passion for working in the public school system is strong,” Haley said. “I take great pride and value in knowing that, for some kids, I might be the only person who speaks to them today, or the only one who smiles at them, or maybe the only one who has offered a hug, fist bump, or even a snack if they need it. I have always liked working with the underdogs: the students in foster care, the struggling readers, the ones who test your patience daily, or the ones you might call the ‘bad kids.’ That’s just who I am. I think I like the challenge of being able to connect with them and winning them over. Relationships are everything.” In-line with that philosophy, Haley started a support group at AHS for pregnant students and young mothers. Though she is no longer able to lead the group due to professional constraints, she still believes in the value of structured peer support, especially for the most vulnerable students on campus. Haley and Layne have two children We now had to of their own: Bella (16) and Bristol (13). focus on what was After suffering a miscarriage in 2019, Haley felt inspired to become a foster to come in this parent. baby girl’s future. “I really don’t know how to describe I knew I wanted to it other than God,” she said. “Looking back, I know it was a part of my healing, be a part of it. but it was also God writing this beautiful story.” She started praying and talking with her family about the possibility of fostering in February 2020. While her husband was willing to foster, he was reticent to give up his Sundays for the weekly licensing classes. “If you know him, you know that Layne Berry is not going to want to give up fishing to go sit in long meetings inside a building,” Haley laughed. However, COVID changed the game: “No face-to-face meetings were happening any time soon,” she explained. “Suddenly, getting my husband to attend the weekly trainings on Sundays wasn’t so hard after all. We Zoomed instead, and he did almost all of it while fishing from his boat out in the middle of Millwood Lake. And, just like that, we were trained foster parents, had passed what seemed like 45 home inspections, and were ready for a baby who needed us.” In June 2020, Haley received a call: an eight-weekold baby girl needed a foster home. She was at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. They went and picked up McKinley the next day. After 18 months, McKinley was able to return to her mother’s care. At the time, this news was challenging for Haley, who had believed that McKinley ought to stay in the Berrys’ custody. “I was tired, felt defeated and frustrated, and could not wrap my head around the system,” she said. “After many tears and a lot of prayer, my train of thought shifted.”

McKinley on her first birthday.

“

”

Bristol, Layne, Haley (holding McKinley), and Bella. N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

The Berry family is grateful to be a continued presence in McKinley’s life.

photo by ABBY McWILLIAMS

Haley with McKinley and McKinley’s mom, Danielle.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Haley came to realize that McKinley was best served by being reunited with her mother. “We now had to focus on what was to come in this baby girl’s future. I knew I wanted to be a part of it. Her mama loves her—and every girl deserves their mama—so I chose to love her mama, too.” McKinley has been back with her mother for two years now. She lives about 30 minutes from the Berrys, with whom she has regular playdates and sleepovers. “We are so thankful her mama continues to share her with us,” Haley said. “God is good.”

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

SCENE ABOUT TOWN TH E U N IT E D WAY O F G R E AT E R T E X A R K A N A H E LD IT S A N N UA L BAT T LE O N T H E B O R D E R F U N D R A I S E R O N SAT U R DAY, O C TO B E R 7T H .

Jennifer Smith and Summer Nelson

Megan Sears and Sarah Bilimek

Linda Roberts and Lisa Mitchell

Charla Bowen

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Jamie Branson, Leigh Ann Naul, and Darla Wilf

Mark Watson

Sheyenne McLaurin and Jacob Murray

Leslie McCauslin and Linda Murdock

Kristen White, Pam White, Mark Bledsoe, and Mike Mahone

Susan Slimer, Jolly Woosley, and Jennifer Hackworth

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

SCENE ABOUT TOWN TE X A R K A N A M U S E U M S SYSTE M H E LD IT S V I NTAG E A N D CO LLEC TI B LE P R E V I E W SA LE AT D I S COV E RY P L AC E O N W E D N E S DAY, O C TO B E R 1 8TH .

Dr. Emily Cutrer and Jeff Brown

Dusty Baker

Jeff Brown and Jason Williams

Emily Tarr

Gabe Tarr

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

SCENE ABOUT TOWN H U M B LE TR O LL CO F F E E R OA STE R S , A M I S S I O N TE X A R K A N A E N D E AVO R , L AU N C H E D O U T S I D E TACO S 4 LI F E O N SAT U R DAY, O C TO B E R 1 4TH .

Dani Hamblett and Traci Pitman

Nichole Holze and Lucy Holze

Cody Howard and Caleb Maloney

Lydia Brown and Ryan Brown

Janice and Milton Page

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Aaron Brown

Paul and Loretta Cothren

Harry Hamblett and Spencer Stokes

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

SCENE ABOUT TOWN LI F E N ET H E LD IT S 3 0 -Y E A R C E LE B R ATI O N AT T H E TE X A R K A N A TE X A S CO N V E NTI O N C E NT E R O N W E D N E S DAY, O C TO B E R 1 1T H .

Amber Adams and Prissy Hickerson

Buddy Allen and Bowie County Judge Bobby Howell

Dr. Matt Young and Dave Snavely

Laura Jacobs and Jennifer Studdard

Senator Jimmy Hickey, Carolyn Allen, and Representative Carol Dalby

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

photos by MARY CYRUS PHOTOGRAPHY

Alyssa Haley, Jess Gibbs, David Wilder, Dave Snavely, Darren Higgs, Jim Gaines, Kelly McCauley, Jason Gartner, Brett Peine

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

FSLM STUDENT PROFILE

MEET

NORAH JORDAN by M A D EL I N E S M A L LWO O D

litter-covered surfaces, makeup products precariously perched on countertops, and costume pieces strewn everywhere might drive some people crazy, but not dancer and Pleasant Grove senior Norah Jordan. Norah has been dancing practically her whole life. “My mom put me in dance when I was three, along with soccer, gymnastics, and other things, but dance was the one thing that stuck,” she said. “Honestly, dance is my entire life and has been for 15 years.” Between drill team, studio dance, community ballet practice, and a class in Little Rock every Saturday, Norah spends at least 25 hours a week dancing. “I don’t mind spending all my time dancing. It’s like my lifeline,” she said. “I can express myself in a way that I’m not able to put into words. I know most people won’t understand, and I’m fine with that, because other people don’t have to—just me.” Norah doesn’t consider dancing “just a hobby”; rather, it is an art form she wants to pursue for the rest of her life. She plans to obtain degrees in dance and business, join a professional ballet company, and open her own dance studio. She is an advanced student and also a junior assistant. “I love dancing, but I love assisting at the studio just as much. I’ve always wanted to open up my own studio,” Norah explained. Dance is year-round for Norah. Her past few summers have been spent at Burklyn Ballet Theatre in Johnson, Vermont. This prestigious summer intensive involves five hours of technique classes daily, in addition to afternoon and evening rehearsals. Not just anyone can dance at Burklyn; Norah had to audition to earn her place. Classes at Burklyn are taught by world-renowned dance instructors, including former American Ballet Theatre dancers. Norah has participated in community productions for the past ten years. “I remember watching the ballet for the first time when I was younger and thinking I couldn’t wait to be like those girls on stage. The next year, I auditioned.” In this year’s major production, Norah will perform a senior role. “Performing is probably my favorite part of dancing. The heat of the lights and just shutting the rest of the world out, I can’t even explain it.” Norah said. 42

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Along with so much dancing, Norah is involved in other activities as well. She is one of the editors of Pleasant Grove High School’s yearbook, The Hawk, an acolyte at St. James Episcopal Church, and is involved in various school organizations including National Honor Society, Quill and Scroll, and Student Council, just to name a few. She manages all this along with taking collegelevel courses. “I’m busy pretty much all the time,” she admitted. “I have dance seven days a week and other responsibilities. It’s very important for me not to let myself get too stressed. When I start to feel stressed, I step back and reflect, organize, and just decompress. Most of the time, it helps.” The constant on-the-go and filled-to-the-brim schedule has taught Norah many things—namely the importance of selfdiscipline, organization, and perseverance, as well as how to rely on her support system. From football games to late-night practices, her parents, Jennifer and Phillip (the latter of whom is affectionately known as the “Dance Dad”), and younger sister, Rosie (who is also a dancer), are always there to shower Norah with unconditional support. “Without my family, I don’t know how I would do it,” she shared. From pointe shoes to pom poms, Norah’s hard work shines.

Madeline Smallwood is a junior at Pleasant Grove High School. She is a writer for The Edge Newspaper and a staff photographer. She can always be found s h o o t i ng Fr i d a y n igh t lights and hanging with her friends at Raising Cane’s after the game.

Performing is “ probably my favorite part of dancing. The heat of the lights and just shutting the rest of the world out, I can’t even explain it.

photos by SHANE DARBY

”

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

SCENE ABOUT TOWN T H E A N N UA L D E K A LB O K TO B E R F E ST WA S H E LD I N D OW N TOW N D E K A LB O N SAT U R DAY, O C TO B E R 7T H .

Kelli Fanin and Sandy Hamilton

Maggie Taylor and Rachel Strain

London Little and Laura Edwards

Lauren Hurst and Addison Hurst

Kim Newman and Tyler Orbison

Jasmine Goodwin

Jennifer Raine

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Amanda Brower

Kimberly Mendenhall

Chett Scanfish

Michelle Smith

Jeanie Fiori and Carolyn Humphrey

Ashley Tuppen

Tristan Solheim and Kyla Barnes

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

For 15 years, TRAHC has provided a special holiday shopping experience through its annual Holiday Arts Market

he Texarkana Regional Arts & Humanities Council (TRAHC) and For Arts’ Sake gift shop will be presenting the 15th annual Holiday Arts Market on Friday, December 1st, and Saturday, December 2nd, at the Regional Arts Center, located at 321 W. 4th Street in Texarkana, Texas. Check off your Christmas list this year with something truly special: unique creations made by local artisans. The market offers an array of gifts including paintings, jewelry, textiles, baked goods, and so much more. The Holiday Arts Market began as a small event that TRAHC started to allow local artists the opportunity to sell their handcrafted items in a fun and comfortable environment. The event has continued to grow throughout the years and has become a beloved event for the community of Texarkana. Shoppers can expect to find all three floors of the Regional Arts Center full of vendors this year, including the three gallery rooms. Debbie Gilliam will also be contributing to the festive environment by providing live music. The hours of this event will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. There is no entrance fee for shoppers, and the building is wheelchair accessible with a ramp in the back of the building and an elevator inside to get you to all three floors. For more information, you may contact the Regional Art Center at 903792-8681 or Jeanne Harrel at 903-277-3404.

DID YOU KNOW?

TRAHC

was formed in 1978 by community leaders with generous assistance from the Junior League of Texarkana. TRAHC’s mission is to “grow people and community through the arts.” TRAHC’s core values include artistic excellence, education, collaboration, leadership, accessibility, and community involvement.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

2023

HOLIDAY ARTISTS Christa Atchison – Baked Goods Vicki Avery – Doll Clothes Gabrielle Bachers – Scarves and Art Christopher Bachers – Art Angie Benifiel – Leather Goods Sarah Bobbitt – Soap Denise Bolster – Pottery Robert Burke Burns – Art Laura Bailey – Holiday Lights Nina Cork – Art and Pottery Marcie Clinton – Art Lisa Clark – Jewelry Earlene Crowell – Sewn Goods Mary Crawford – Ornaments and Holiday Goods Belinda Downs – Quilts Delbert Dowdy – Wood Crafts Andy Dodez – Hiking Sticks Four States Art Club – Art Ann Gaskin – Photography Glenda Griffin – Honey Leitha Herring – Jewelry Debbie James – Sewn Gifts Sherri Jones – Jewelry Kathy Madison – Glass Lara Mahaffey – Jewelry Opportunities – Holiday Items Donna Rogers – Sewn Gifts Joyce Parry-Sartin – Pottery Dennis Sartin – Soap Salvation Army – Bells Agnes Tirrito – Scarves and Art Chris Thomas – Pottery Mark Thomas – Leather Goods Roger Tipton – Wood Crafts Nan Waits – Jewelry Jes Weiner – Art Jon Welborn – Wood Crafts Pat Willis – Wood Crafts Sarah Wright – Jewelry Joel Wright – Art Peggy Whisenhunt – Jewelry

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

SCENE ABOUT TOWN TH E 1 4TH A N N UA L J E A N S & B LI N G , B E N E F ITI N G H O S P I C E O F TE X A R K A N A , WA S H E LD AT TH E TE X A R K A N A T E X A S CO N V E NTI O N C E NTE R O N SAT U R DAY, O C TO B E R 7TH .

Ida and David Alexander

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Brent Stewart, Sally Patton, Brandon O’Neal, and Jeff Brown

Robin and Jon Dempsey

Jaimie Alexander, Jamye DeHaan, and Chandler Murphy with Bobbie and Bertha Shipp

Jill and Mark Launius

Pat and Jane Davitt with Melissa Cook and Josh Davitt

Jerry and Traci Gatlin with Courtney and Charles Shoalmire

Rick and Christina Huntze

Glen and Kelli Scarborough

Jerry and Yulin Brewer with Stella and Rick Sharp

Cindy and Mike Malone

Denis and Mary Washington with Ron and Vee Collins

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Lisa Shoalmire and John Ross

Sandi Martin, Channen Branch, Katie Stone, and Donnie Spriggs

Van and Mignon Alexander

Beth Murphy and Mary Jane Orr

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Dr. Brent and Morgan Bennett

Cindy Marsh and Mario Garcia

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

MAKING WAVES OF CHANGE The Literacy Council and Lost Pizza Co. partner to empower adult students by K AT I E STO N E 52

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

enny Walker and Jenny Wilder have been friends for as long as they can remember. They danced together at Carol Cooper’s studio at the age of four. They cheered together through their high school days at Liberty Eylau (LE). After schooling, both went on to establish careers in Texarkana: Jenny Wilder became a nurse, and Jenny Walker became a teacher. “A lot of our friends we grew up with moved away. It was important to us to stay here and make Texarkana a better place,” Walker said. When Wilder’s teenage son became involved with the Literacy Council through his Eagle Scout project in 2017, she joined the nonprofit’s board. When the director retired during the pandemic, Walker applied for the position. Wilder knew that her friend was a wonderful candidate. The interview process included multiple Zoom interviews as well as a socially-distanced in-person meeting with the board. Despite the challenges of the COVID-era hiring process, the board was excited to extend a job offer to Walker, who became the director of the Literacy Council of Bowie and Miller Counties in July 2020. “That entire process was stressful in some ways, but at the same time, I had an unreasonable peace about it and some respect for it. I believe that sometimes in life you must take a risk and see how strong your wings are,” Walker said. “I knew it would be the biggest mountain I would ever have to climb.” Once she accepted the position at the Literacy Council, “the Jennys” got to work. While Jenny Walker was ushering in the rebirth of the Literacy Council (and pursuing her doctorate simultaneously), Jenny Wilder was working as a hospice nurse and volunteering on the Literacy Council Board in her free time. However, in 2022, Wilder pivoted: she and her husband, Patrick, opened Lost Pizza Co. “I wanted to challenge myself by offering a food option with a fun atmosphere, and I knew I would use it to help the community,” Wilder said. “I wanted it to be a safe and fun environment to work in. You don’t have that in a lot of service industry jobs nowadays.” In the Wilders’ new business venture, the two old friends found new ways to serve Texarkana. Through a partnership of Lost Pizza Co. and the Literacy Council’s workforce skills program, they collaborate to provide training and employment to disadvantaged adults. While many understand “literacy” to mean reading and writing, the Literacy Council defines the word more broadly. Along with ESL and languagelearning classes, the organization also offers basic education and GED classes,

“The Jennys” have been the best of friends for as long as they can remember.

workforce solutions, and life skills classes, all at no cost to students. The workforce credential program caters to individuals who are not in school and are of working age and need employment skills. Walker works closely with several businesses in the Texarkana community, like Lost Pizza Co., to ensure that the Literacy Council’s classes are providing their students with the skills necessary to gain future employment—and to ensure that workplaces are hospitable environments for the potential employees, who belong to vulnerable communities. “We want employers to have great candidates working at their facilities, and we also need employers to provide a space that is helpful to the adult students we serve,” Walker explained. “It’s sometimes easier for employers to give grace to 16-year-olds because they are just teenagers, but when the inexperienced employee is a 35-year-old it might be a bit harder to extend that same grace. We often expect a person to know better, but the reality is that those skills have not always been taught.” The program does not end with a certificate to hang on the wall (though certification is an aspect of the program). After being placed in employment positions, the students of the workforce program continue to attend Literacy Council classes to learn more about work skills, how to receive constructive criticism, and how to grow professionally. Jenny Wilder and Jenny Walker are passionate about making a difference in the community that they have called home their entire lives. Mother Teresa said, “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” These two friends are creating ripples that are sure to lead waves of change. For more information about the Literacy Council and their workforce skills program, visit www.literacytxk.org.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

Jessica and Blake Rich

M A I N STR E ET TE X A R K A N A’ S 2 N D A N N UA L O K TO B E R F E ST O N TH E LI N E WA S H E LD O N SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14TH.

Tyler Fortune, Fallon Keller, Sara Watson, and Brady Redman

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Courtney Lusk and April Hinton

Kinley and Jacob Potter with Heyston Potter

Grant Foster, Stephanie Jones, and Kimberly Mendenhall

Kim Fowler and Toni Braley

Bobbie Nell Ross and Baylie Graves

Kadi Burns and Lilly Burns

Kate Strickland and Kasey Viard

Dylan Van Kam , Julian Williams, and Jason Williams

Keegan and Sierra Metz

Michael Walthall and Hunter Eserhaut

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

EXQUISITE

INTERIORS T WO H O MES. O NE F R I ENDSH I P.

ennifer Davis and Michael Stephenson have a shared affinity for collecting antiques and specialty pieces. In fact, they met by chance at a local thrift store, where both Michael and Jennifer rented retail booths from which they sold some of their special finds. The two strangers struck up a conversation and became fast friends. Michael had been looking for a historic house to buy in Texarkana, Arkansas, and Jennifer happened to live in the Smith-Burke Historic District on Glendale Avenue. Michael remembers very specifically telling Jennifer, “Hey, if anything ever comes available in your neighborhood, I would love to see it.” Michael had recently moved to Texarkana for work, and he was determined to find a house that would be the perfect fit for him and his spouse, Chase. He thought about his conversation with Jennifer and reached out to her to ask if he could see where she lived. “Immediately, I was obsessed with Jennifer’s home,” Michael said. As they toured her house and chatted, Michael reiterated that he would love to purchase a home in Jennifer’s neighborhood. She excitedly replied that she was pretty sure that her neighbors were planning to sell but hadn’t yet listed the property. 58

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

A tree and shrub line separate the two 100-year-old homes in the Smith Burke Historic District.

Michael went home and wrote a letter to Jennifer’s next-door neighbor, asking to buy their home. “I was obsessed with it. Thankfully, they agreed to sell it right away,” he said. That was the beginning of a great friendship built upon a love of vintage treasures. The duo make frequent day trips to obtain antique treasures, work together on restoration projects, and even swap pieces. “We switch things out all the time. Our neighbors often see us walking through our front yards, carrying heavy furniture back and forth,” Jennifer laughed. “Sometimes I even have ‘honey do’ lists for Michael.” It didn’t take long for the duo to decide that they should start a business together to sell their excess treasures. “[Michael and Chase] moved into their house in April 2020, and by August, Michael and I had started doing live sales together at Olive Street Vintiques,” Jennifer said.

Jennifer enjoys doing live sales on Facebook on Thursday and Sunday evenings. Her retail store, Olive Street Vintiques, is open on Saturdays.

Best friends Michael Stephenson and Jennifer Davis hang out on Michael’s sprawling front porch. N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

The exterior of Michael and Chase’s home has been meticulously cared for to provide sitting areas on the front and back porches. A pond with koi and goldfish is a point of pride for Michael. “We had to put a new liner in and rehab the area before we could fill it and put fish in, but we love it,” Michael said.

Once a week, Jennifer and Michael went live on Facebook to sell unique treasures to a tuned-in group of local buyers and watchers. The business took off, likely thanks to the contagious energy and fun that Jennifer and Michael brought to their livestreams. The two hosted Olive Street Vintiques online sales for about eight months. However, Michael’s full-time job was increasingly demanding, so he removed himself from the endeavor. Jennifer has since expanded the business, moving her wares to a brick-and-mortar location at 105 Olive Street, inside the historic 1894 City Market building. She is open every Saturday for customers to peruse her shop in-person, and she still hosts online sales on Thursday and Sunday nights. To access the live sales, check out her Facebook page and/or sign up for text alerts.

The back deck with arranged seating is a focal point for friends and visitors to stop and visit or sip a cocktail and unwind as they enjoy the beauty of the back yard. Notice the lemons and Pellegrino, ready to pour a concoction at a moment’s notice.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Michael and Chase remodeled the kitchen when they moved into their home. Without changing the home’s footprint, they updated all of the appliances, installed new cabinet doors and pulls onto the cabinetry, and installed new countertops in the kitchen.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Michael’s living area is rich in color in his art, furniture, and rugs. Floor to ceiling, there are art pieces to admire and ponder. Michael commented that he loved dogs and hunters prepared to hunt pheasant. The painting over the red chest is one of a hunt, and Michael said that he has other hunting scenes in other parts of his home. The arched bookshelves in the living area are the part of the home that sold him first on buying this particular home.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

The dining room wallpaper is spectacular, and Michael admitted to putting the paper up on the walls by himself. The chandelier above the dining room is also a standout, as are the wooden swans under the dining table. Note the framed prescription above; this is a prescription for booze written by a doctor in 1927 to someone, so they can get alcohol and drink it legally. N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

It’s been three years since Michael moved next door to Jennifer, and their admiration for each other and their houses has only grown. While their styles are distinct, they overlap in fundamental ways. Jennifer explained that, while her style has been influenced by Michael’s and vice-versa, they each retain their individuality. “I like to say that we are both traditional, but I’m whimsical, and he’s masculine,” Jennifer said. “Yeah,” Michael agreed, “my house is kind of dark. My lighting is very dim. I love brass. I love coffee table books. I love moody and ‘dark academia.’”

“Masculine” is the descriptor for Michael and Chase’s private rooms. The bedroom, bath, and study are dark and carefully curated with art and history that both enjoy. The closet, however, is the envy of every person.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Jennifer Davis and Michael Stephenson are standing on Jennifer’s front porch before showing the FSLM team through their homes. N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Jennifer’s house, built in 1929, required very little renovation when she and her husband bought it almost 11 years ago. Michael, on the other hand, has had to tackle a few projects in his 1927 Craftsman-esque home. He redid the kitchen, maintaining the layout while installing new cabinet doors, countertops, and appliances. He also remodeled the attic bedroom, transforming it into a cozy-yetmoody primary bedroom. He also revived the backyard fish pond; a collection of seven goldfish and one huge koi now thrive in the charming water feature.

The exterior of the Davis home is lovely, with established brick landscaping, pansies planted, mums in place, and even an occasional cat walking by. Notice the arched front door and the exquisite windows in the front of her home. Jennifer’s sunroom has enormous arched windows throughout. There are Asian influences in Jennifer’s decorating. Her favorite piece of furniture that she owns is an Asian sewing machine that is intricately designed and painted (see below left).

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Beautiful chandeliers are hung throughout the home. The Davis’s dining room is spectacular and sits back from the front living room. Like Michael, Jennifer uses rugs throughout her home which makes all of the areas warm and exciting.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Jennifer’s kitchen is immaculate and updated with everything she needs. Two stained glass pieces are hung in the window above her sink, and pictures and paintings are hung on the west wall.

Both Michael and Jennifer love their neighborhood and the character of their early-20th century houses, which they feel is impossible to find in newer builds. Arched windows, sprawling porches, interesting doorways, sunrooms, and built-in bookcases are just a few of the features that the pair describe when talking about the charm of their homes. The exteriors of both homes are beautifully maintained and currently decorated for autumn. Michael and Jennifer cite long-established landscaping with brick borders and old, massive trees as the defining features of their outdoor spaces. Separated by a lush line of trees and shrubs, Michael and Jennifer’s homes are distinct and unique; a passerby would notice no connection beyond physical proximity. And yet, their traditional-yet-maximalist interiors clearly reflect not only their individual aesthetics but also a shared stylistic perspective, developed over countless hours of treasure-hunting, arranging, curating, and creating. Michael and Jennifer love their homes, their neighborhood, and each other. Brought together by chance, the two neighbors have cultivated not only beautiful spaces but also a beautiful friendship, grown through their shared passion of “vintiques” and historic homes.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

SCENE ABOUT TOWN C H U R C H O N TH E R O C K H E LD IT S CO M M U N IT Y H E A LTH FA I R O N SAT U R DAY, O C TO B E R 7TH .

Kent and Rachel Grimmett

Back row: Rex Smedley, Steve Erlewine, and Ron Baker; front row: Susie Lee, Doylia Mills, Pam Cigainero, and Susan Hill

Carmen Sampson

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

Alex Tipton, Karl Maynard, and Fred Hutcheson

Lisa Irving

Felicia Carmony and Laney Holder

Gwen and Ronnie Dawson

Crystal Rogers, Rise Johnson, Angie Kidd, Dr. Russell Stanley, Laura West, Lorain Jones, and Emily Rushing

William Miller and Debra Walter

Kathy Tribble, Ashley Taylor, and Jered Alexander

Angela Thrower and Andrea Johnson

Norma Shanks and Kim Dixon

Katheryn Schmidt and Shirley Cowan

Suzette Tyler

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

EVENTS | CALENDAR

NOVEMBER 2023 NOVEMBER 4

NOVEMBER 10

Candy Cane Corral Holiday Bazaar

JLT’s Mistletoe & Mimosas

NOVEMBER 4

NOVEMBER 12

Get ready to check off your Christmas shopping list at the Four States Fairgrounds event center. This event will offer a wide array of fun, including shopping opportunities, local art, food, and a chance to visit Santa. The event will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call the Four States Fairgrounds office at 870-773-2941. Rock Out Cancer Concert

Junior League of Texarkana is offering a special-hours shopping event for this year’s Mistletoe Market that promises brunch, drinks, and live entertainment. This exclusive shopping event will take place from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Texarkana Convention Center. Tickets are $45 and can be purchased through the events section of the Mistletoe Market Facebook page. LoneStar Health & Wellness 4th Anniversary

Enjoy a wonderful night of music for a great cause at the Four LoneStar Health & Wellness is celebrating four years of business with States Fairgrounds. Hosted by Friends for a Cause Foundation, food, drinks, and special giveaways. The event will take place from 2 p.m. this event will feature music by TJ McAlexander and Honey. to 4 p.m. at 1724 Galleria Oaks Drive. The event will be from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets begin at $25 and can be purchased at www.eventbrite.com. Cancer patients and survivors will receive free admission.

NOVEMBER 4 Masterworks II: Jupiter

Texarkana Symphony Orchestra presents this show, featuring a performance by internationally renowned cellist Amit Peled at the historic Perot Theatre. The show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at perottheatre.org.

NOVEMBER 7 Harvest Regional Food Bank’s Taste of Texarkana

The 30th annual Taste of Texarkana will be at the Four States Fairgrounds arena from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Come try the finest local cuisine and support the hunger relief programs of Harvest Regional Food Bank. Tickets are $10 for children aged 10 and under and start at $25 for adults. Tickets can be purchased at www.eventbrite.com. For more information, visit harvestregionalfoodbank.org.

NOVEMBER 9 JLT’s Jingle & Mingle

The Junior League of Texarkana will present an evening of private shopping, delicious food, and live entertainment. The event will be held at the Holiday Inn Texarkana Convention Center from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Tickets are $60 and can be purchased through the events section of the Mistletoe Market Facebook page.

NOVEMBER 9 Opportunities Inc. Foundation Board’s Annual Autumn Luncheon

The Opportunities Foundation Board invites the community to gather for good food, great company, and a greater cause. The luncheon will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The Autumn Luncheon gift is underwritten by Dolly Dunklin Marting, and the menu is catered by Benchmark Brasserie. Tickets are $45 and can be purchased at oppinc.org. 72

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com

EVENTS | CALENDAR (continued)

NOVEMBER 13 Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Kickoff

The Salvation Army of Texarkana is conducting the official kickoff for this year’s Angel Tree program in Central Mall. The Salvation Army Angel Tree program and its donors help millions of parents and children in need celebrate Christmas. The kickoff begins at 12 p.m. For more information, call Captain Clara Gomez at the local Salvation Army number 870-774-2701.

NOVEMBER 18

is hosting a 5K in Spring Lake Park on Thanksgiving Day. This fundraising event directly supports the Community Healthcore Foundation. Registration for the race will take place at 7:30 a.m., and the actual race will begin at 8:30 a.m. The registration fee is $25. For more information, visit www.communityhealthcore.com.

DECEMBER 2023

POPS I: Home Alone Live in Concert

DECEMBER 1–2

NOVEMBER 18

This year’s Holiday Arts Market will be set up in all three floors of the Regional Arts Center at 321 West 4th Street. Shop ’til you drop from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, call Jeanne Harrel at 903-2773404, or contact the Regional Arts Center at 903-792-8681.

The Texarkana Symphony Orchestra invites you to experience holiday magic at the Perot Theatre. They will perform the charming John Williams score from the beloved Christmas movie Home Alone. The show begins at 7 p.m., and tickets can be purchased at perottheatre.org. Inaugural Fall Festival for Runnin WJ Ranch

A new fall family event will be held at Spring Lake Park from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. The event will feature a silent auction, face painting, games, food trucks, and more. The event is open to the public, and all proceeds will support Runnin WJ Ranch.

NOVEMBER 23 10th Annual Turkey Trot 5K

The Community Healthcore Foundation

TRAHC’s 15th Annual Holiday Arts Market

DECEMBER 1–3 Texarkana Community Ballet presents The Nutcracker

Come experience this enchanting holiday tradition at the historic Perot Theatre. Performances are scheduled for December 1st at 7.pm., December 2nd at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and December 3rd at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $13 and can be purchased at perottheatre.org.

ASK THE EXPERTS D esiree D e D e J efferson

Director of Marketing, MRC Cornerstone Retirement Community

Music & Memory For those living with memory loss, it’s proven that music can calm chaotic brain activity and improve focus. Music can connect deeply, in ways other therapies cannot. Despite memory loss, elders that have dementia can engage with music in ways that can be truly remarkable. Music stimulates parts of the brain that are less affected by dementia and has the power to spark emotions. Music is known to help memory by lowering stress levels, reducing anxiety, and temporarily improve cognition. If you are a caregiver or family member of an agitated elder with dementia, try songs that resonate with their youth or ones that may have personal meaning to them.

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

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3 . fourstatesliving.com