June 2026

Texarkana Magazine

JUNE • 2026

June | 2026 | Volume 7 | Issue 6

72. LOCAL GIFT GUIDE 2026 Father’s Day Edition 74. TXK ROOTS Monte Dobson

12. POLITICS Red River Army Depot’s Next Mission 22. cover/COMMUNITY Look Up!

12.

48. LIFE Escape Close to Home 58. STYLE Ridge Retreat

74.

34.

58.

34. CULTURE Taste Buds 44.

ENTERTAINMENT Good Evening TXK

If you were to give a TED talk, what would the title be?

CASSY MEISENHEIMER The Local Advantage

TERRI SANDEFUR Food Anthropology

ALANA MOREL How to Successfully Live Out of Your Car

KARA HUMPHREY Navigating a Tall World at Only 4'11"

MATT CORNELIUS The Most Dangerous Place for an Untouched Ego is a Pulpit

LEAH ORR Flip the Table: Everything I Know I Learned from the Real Housewives

BRITTANY ROBLES The Thin Line Between Trendy and Tacky

TERRI COX When Life Doesn’t Go as Planned, and Still Turns Out Beautiful

ALLY EVANS The Importance of Chasing Your Dreams

BAILEY GRAVITT How I Found Jesus While I Was Constipated

DR. ROBIN HICKERSON Your Best Chapter Might Be the One You Never Had Planned

ANDREW MCELHANY The Art of Navigating Laundry off the Floor— Husband Edition

RAY SANDEFUR Justifying Tool Purchases

CONTRIBUTORS

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

S ummer has arrived, and with it, the words every parent and teenager has been waiting for, “School is out.” We limped through that final month like everyone else, counting down days, surviving the sprint of the end-of- year everything, and watching my kids run completely out of steam somewhere around the second week of May. They were done. I was done. The golf course was calling their names, and honestly, a new routine was calling mine. And what better way to kick off summer than to do something you will absolutely love (and occasionally regret)?

txkmag.com letstalk@txkmag.com 903-949-6886 OFFICE 911 North Bishop Street Building C • Suite 102 Wake Village, Texas 75501 MAIL 2801 Richmond Road #38 Texarkana, Texas 75503

Publisher CARDINAL PUBLISHING Staff CASSY MEISENHEIMER cassy@txkmag.com TERRI SANDEFUR terri@txkmag.com

We bought a boat. If you are a boat owner, you already know exactly where this is going. If you are not, allow me to prepare you. There is a saying that floats around every dock in America: “Bust Out Another Thousand,” better known as B.O.A.T. I heard it approximately four times in our first week of ownership, and I have never felt so seen in my life. A boat is not a wise investment in the traditional sense. My accountant would probably like me to stop talking about it altogether. But it is an investment in something that does not show up on a balance sheet. It is afternoons on the water with my kids, who are growing up faster than I can keep track of, and memories made before they are too cool to spend a Saturday with their mom. Our boys love the lake. And if I am being completely honest, so do I. Every single dollar of it. So here we are with a boat that, from October through May, collects storage fees, requires winterization, and generally reminds me that boat ownership is a year-round commitment disguised as seasonal joy. Worth it. Completely worth it. And if you are thinking about taking the plunge yourself, go see the team at Gregg Orr Marine. They will get you on the water. This month’s issue is your guide to doing summer right. Our “Escape Close to Home” special section is packed with getaways you can reach on less than a tank of gas, which we can all appreciate right now. Whether you are looking for a weekend on the water, a trail worth hiking, or a small town worth wandering, we have you covered close to home. We are also featuring the Texarkana Airshow, taking place at the end of the month, with a full day of events the whole family will love. Do not miss our feature on Red River Army Depot. From its World War II roots to drone technology, advanced manufacturing, and a lithium boom that has national security implications, the story of what is happening right here in our backyard is one you will not want to put down. All your monthly favorites are inside, too. Thank you for reading and for supporting the local businesses that fill these pages. They make this magazine possible, and they are worth your visit. Now, if you need me, I will be learning to drive a boat.

ALANA MOREL alana@txkmag.com KARA HUMPHREY kara@txkmag.com LEAH ORR leah@txkmag.com BRITTANY ROBLES brittany@txkmag.com MATT CORNELIUS matt@txkmag.com Local Sources CLARE ANGIER MADELINE HAAK DANI HAMBLETT SHELBY McELHANY TRACI PITMAN JOE REGAN

JOY SANDEFUR TAYLOR SIDES

CRAFTED IN TEXARKANA. EMPLOYEE OWNED AND LOCALLY SOURCED.

#txkmag

Texarkana Magazine is a multimedia publication showcasing the Texarkana area and is designed and published by Cardinal Publishing, LLC. Articles in Texarkana Magazine should not be considered specific advice, as individual circumstances vary. Ideaology, products, and services promoted in the publication are not necessarily endorsed by Texarkana Magazine . © Texarkana Magazine . All rights reserved. All content is protected by copyright law and may not be reproduced or distributed without written permission.

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

RED RIVER ARMY DEPOT’S NEXT MISSION BY DR. ROBIN HICKERSON

BUSINESS & POLITICS

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

I n 1939, Texarkana was still fighting to recover from the Great Depression. While projects funded through the Works Progress Administration helped provide jobs and infrastructure, local leaders knew the region needed something far greater to secure long-term economic stability. In response, the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce assembled a group led by Robert Maxwell to pursue federal defense-related opportunities tied to America’s growing military preparations ahead of World War II. Their initial goal was modest: to attract a project that could create at least 100 jobs. What followed would far exceed anyone’s expectations, permanently reshape Texarkana, and establish one of the nation’s most important military industrial complexes. Texarkana’s effort gained momentum through the influence of Senator Morris Sheppard and Congressman Wright Patman, both powerful advocates for the region in Washington, DC. Chamber representatives traveled to the nation’s capital and met with military leaders, including Secretary of War Henry Stimson. For nearly two years, Texarkana leaders provided detailed studies regarding transportation, labor, utilities, geography, and natural resources while Army officials quietly evaluated potential sites across the region. Regional and federal leaders gathered at Red River Army Depot on December 3, 2025, to highlight the installation’s continued impact on military readiness and economic growth.

Then came the breakthrough. The federal government announced plans for a $45.5 million facility capable of producing 100,000 artillery shells per day in Bowie County, followed shortly thereafter by a neighboring munitions supply depot. Construction began at extraordinary speed. Originally called the Texarkana Ordnance Depot, the installation later became Red River Army Depot (RRAD). Over 22,000 construction workers flooded the area to build the depot and its supporting infrastructure. During World War II, the Depot became a critical logistics and maintenance hub supporting Allied operations around the globe, including the Normandy invasion. The installation expanded rapidly into tank repair, vehicle maintenance, storage, and troop training operations. Adjacent to the Depot, the Lone Star Army Ammunition Plant emerged as another major wartime operation, producing artillery shells, bombs, fuses, and other munitions that supported American military efforts throughout World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The military complex transformed Texarkana’s economy, population, infrastructure, and identity. Entire neighborhoods, businesses, and transportation systems grew around the installation.

BUSINESS & POLITICS

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

During a May 7, 2026, visit to the Texarkana region, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz met with EnergyX representatives to discuss the strategic importance of lithium production, noting that Red River Army Depot sits atop the Smackover Formation, one of the nation’s largest lithium brine reserves.

Officials gather beneath a rendering of the planned Lonestar Lithium operation, a project aimed at strengthening America’s domestic lithium supply chain through development of the Smackover Formation.

Fajardo takes great pride in his legacy being one of transformative thinking among depot employees who have shifted their mindsets from “Is this the day we are going to shut down and lose our jobs?” to one of “I can go home without worry. We will be back tomorrow.” Deputy Commander Jamie Bass elaborates by saying, “I am most proud of our improvements in efficiency and processes. We are among the best of all the industrial bases in the country.” Fajardo supports Bass’ mindset by stating, “RRAD can shape and grow with the times. We are modernizing and changing our processes to reflect what our nation needs.” The modern vision for Red River Army Depot extends far beyond traditional maintenance operations. The Depot leaders repeatedly emphasized that the Depot functions “more like a business than an Army organization,” operating with a self-sustaining mindset while supporting

Unlike many wartime facilities, Red River Army Depot did not disappear after World War II. Instead, it adapted to become a vital part of the Army’s sustainment portfolio. Tens of thousands of combat vehicles returning from overseas were repaired and restored at the Depot, many of which were later redeployed during the Korean War. Over time, Red River developed one of its most important specialties: manufacturing rubber products and track systems for armored vehicles. Through decades of modernization, the Depot became the Department of War’s only facility dedicated to rebuilding and manufacturing tank track shoes and road wheels, eventually becoming one of the Army’s primary providers for M1 Abrams tank road wheels. The Depot continued serving the nation through Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and modern military operations while surviving multiple rounds of base

realignment and closure reviews due largely to overwhelming community support and its strategic importance. Yet today, Red River Army Depot finds itself at another transformational moment. In the spring of 2025, the Army’s Transformation Initiative subjected the Depot to another potential realignment threat. Local, state, and national leaders immediately mobilized around a strategy focused not only on preservation but also on leveraging existing and emerging Army organic industrial base modernization, which is part of the overall defense industrial base, along with advanced manufacturing efforts. Two major themes quickly emerged from those conversations: drone technology and lithium. Under the leadership of Commander Colonel Denis Fajardo and Deputy Commander Jamie Bass, those ideas are rapidly transitioning from discussion to implementation.

BUSINESS & POLITICS

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

Red River Army Depot continues to modernize its operations through advanced manufacturing, vehicle remanufacturing, welding, and large-scale industrial production, supporting the Army’s evolving readiness mission and future defense initiatives.

Lithium has become an equally important piece of the conversation. Regional leaders repeatedly emphasized that lithium is no longer simply an economic development opportunity. It is a matter of national security. America’s growing demand for battery technology, electric vehicles, energy storage, and defense systems has intensified concerns regarding reliance on foreign sources for critical minerals. The Smackover Formation beneath portions of Arkansas and East Texas is now viewed as one of the nation’s most promising domestic lithium opportunities. Companies like EnergyX are pursuing direct lithium extraction projects in partnership with industrial and regional stakeholders, including activity tied to TexAmericas Center. Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) has been promoted as a more environmentally responsible alternative to traditional mining. Leaders explained that the process minimizes surface disruption and returns brine underground after extraction, reducing many of the environmental concerns historically associated with large- scale mining operations.

critical national defense missions. With an operational footprint approaching $600 million, the installation exists to ensure readiness, surge capability, and logistical support for the United States military. That readiness mission has become increasingly urgent in an era of global instability and growing concern regarding America’s industrial capacity. Fajardo and Bass referenced the World War II concept of the book Freedom’s Forge , when American industry rapidly transformed into the backbone of wartime production. Today, many defense officials worry that the nation no longer possesses the same ability to scale manufacturing quickly during a major crisis. As a result, Red River Army Depot is aggressively repositioning its focus around advanced manufacturing, robotics, drone technology, and modernization initiatives. Texarkana, Texas City Manager, David Orr described the recent evolution of the Depot as, “Working alongside Red River Army Depot leadership, the Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee, and our congressional delegation has truly been the opportunity of a lifetime. What began as a potential

closure crisis has become a turning point, creating real momentum for growth and transformation at the Depot. Seeing our community rally behind the installation and especially the team members at Red River Army Depot, as they position it for the future to make our nation’s defense stronger, has been nothing short of remarkable.” The Depot is already expanding its role in drone-related manufacturing through contracts reportedly valued at around $80 million. While Red River may not assemble complete drone systems, it is increasingly becoming a vital part of the national supply chain supporting unmanned aerial vehicles and future military readiness initiatives. Congressman Pat Fallon highlighted that growing vision during a 2025 visit to the Depot, where he toured potential drone production capabilities with Army officials while also exploring lithium extraction partnerships tied to the region. The conversations pointed toward a larger strategy of transforming Red River Army Depot into a hub for defense innovation, advanced manufacturing, and critical mineral development.

BUSINESS & POLITICS

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

Congressman Nathaniel Moran joined regional leaders, industry partners, and community stakeholders during a recent visit highlighting innovation, economic development, and emerging energy opportunities in the Texarkana, USA region.

Congressman Nathaniel Moran summarized the strategic significance clearly, stating, “East Texas and the ArkTex region are ground zero for America’s lithium future and a critical piece of rebuilding our nation’s industrial and national security independence.” Education and workforce development have become critical pieces of the broader strategy as well. Regional institutions, including Texarkana College and Texas A&M University–Texarkana, are partnering with industry leaders to create workforce pipelines focused on advanced manufacturing, drone technology, robotics, and industrial maintenance. Dr. Jason Smith, president of Texarkana College, emphasized the importance of those partnerships. “Texarkana College is proud to be part of a partnership that is creating direct pathways for students into high-skill, high-demand careers while helping meet critical workforce needs in our region. The Defense Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant through the State of Texas, with the support of the governor and the Texas Military Preparedness Commission has made a grant possible that helps connect students to hands-on training in advanced manufacturing and drone technology while building a workforce pipeline that supports Red River Army Depot and the broader Texarkana community.” Support for Red River Army Depot has also intensified at the state and local levels. Fred Milton, retired Deputy Commander/CEA Defense Distribution and current member of Governor Abbott’s Committee to Support the Military, praised the renewed momentum surrounding the installation and warned that threats to military workload remain very real. “Our vigilance must be keen, our resolve endless, and our generation of unique ideas and attainable solutions

forthcoming if we are to win,” Milton said while emphasizing the importance of sustaining the military complex that pumps billions of dollars annually into the regional economy. That momentum reached another milestone on May 7, 2026, when Senator Ted Cruz visited Red River Army Depot and EnergyX to highlight the growing national significance of defense modernization and domestic lithium production in the Texarkana region. Discussions focused on the Depot’s evolving role in advanced manufacturing and drone technology, the strategic importance of the Smackover Formation, and opportunities to strengthen America’s domestic battery and critical mineral supply chain. Today, Red River Army Depot stands at the intersection of several major national priorities: defense industrial base modernization, advanced manufacturing, drone technology, robotics, workforce development, lithium extraction, and industrial resilience. These are no longer separate conversations. They are deeply interconnected. What began in 1939 as a modest effort by local leaders hoping to create 100 jobs has evolved into one of America’s most strategically important military industrial base assets, employing more than 3,200 people. More importantly, the story is still being written. Red River Army Depot is no longer simply an Army organic industrial base sustainer. It is actively positioning the region for the future of defense manufacturing and industrial readiness, while ensuring our nation is postured to meet the challenges of the future.

BUSINESS & POLITICS

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

Look Up! BY TERRI COX

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

A Precision Exotics McLaren takes on a stunt plane in a high-speed “car vs. plane” runway race similar to what audiences will experience at the TXK Airshow on June 27.

B efore the first jet ever streaks across the Texarkana sky on June 27, there will be a feeling in the air, sparked by excitement, the kind that stirs memories and makes people stop and look up. For one day, the rumble of engines and the sight of aircraft soaring overhead will transform Texarkana. It will become a celebration of the American spirit, hometown pride, and the wonder that can still make a child dream bigger than the horizon. As the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday on July 4, few events capture the heart of patriotism quite like watching an airshow. For Brandon Sanders, Director of Aviation at Texarkana College (TC), the return of the airshow feels like a homecoming for a city that once stood proudly on the aviation map. “Texarkana has a long and proud aviation history that has largely been forgotten since the 1990s,” Sanders said. “Local pilots have set world records, including Dr. Bookout’s speed records in his Cherokee Six. Ross Perot Jr. also became the first person to circumnavigate the world in a helicopter, adding to Texarkana’s impressive list of aviation achievements.” For decades, Texarkana was known as a premier aviation destination. In the 1970s and ‘80s, crowds gathered to watch the Blue Angels and Army Golden Knights perform dazzling routines overhead. Then storms, airport damage, and setbacks slowly silenced the tradition. “After that, there was little appetite to try again,” Sanders said. “Until now.”

Brandon Sanders, Director of Aviation at Texarkana College, stands inside the TC aviation hangar, home to the college’s growing aviation program.

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

The World War II Airborne Demonstration Team will perform historic-style parachute jumps during the upcoming Texarkana Airshow.

Von Linsowe understands that kind of inspiration firsthand. “I was inspired from birth,” he said. “I’m fortunate enough to come from a flying family where everybody was a pilot. I grew up embedded in the general aviation culture, attending air shows and socializing with aviators and their families. It’s in my blood.” That same spark ignited early for Vampire Airshows Pilot Jerry Conley. “There was a kids’ book called Jerry the Jet that I read when I was six or seven years old,” Conley shared. “I have wanted to be a pilot ever since reading it.” Conley grew up in the small town of Beaver, Ohio, where he said many people expected him to follow a more traditional path, farming or becoming a truck driver, but because of that book he read as a boy, he aspired to do something different. “You can be anything you want to be if you want it bad enough,” he said. “Don’t let anybody tell you that you can’t be what you want or do what you dream.” That message may resonate deeply in Texarkana, where the airshow shines a spotlight on the future of aviation education through Texarkana College’s growing aviation program. “Being part of the Texarkana aviation program means more than just learning a trade,” said aviation student Logan Miller. “It’s about becoming part of something that’s taking off right here at home. Being in a program that’s brand new to the area, you get a lot of insight into how this could be great for the community and yourself. I’m proud to be in a position where I can grow alongside the industry, and I’m excited to play a role in shaping the future of aviation in Texarkana.” Texarkana College students will volunteer throughout the event, helping with logistics and operations while gaining firsthand exposure to the industry. “Aviation is much bigger than what most people understand,” Sanders said. “The show will give you an

After two years of planning, preparation, fundraising, and safety coordination, the city is ready to welcome aviation back in a major way. The day’s events will begin with a 5K hosted by For the Sake of One, followed by a barbecue cookoff, and live music performances by Heather Lynn and the Deacons, Cam Allen, and Wade Bowen. There will be rides in exotic supercars such as the Lamborghini Huracan, and various aircraft displays, including F-18 and AC- 130J, along with restored World War II planes that helped shape American history. Then, at 4:30 p.m., the sky show begins! “The Army Golden Knights will parachute in with the flag, and that will start a cascade of flyovers, fighter jet dogfights, stunt planes, helicopter demos, and more,” Sanders said. Among the featured performers is the Full Throttle Formation Team, whose pilots fly within mere feet of one another at speeds reaching 200 miles per hour. Justin “Bongo” von Linsowe, one of the team’s pilots, says the greatest part of performing is not the flying itself but seeing the reactions afterward. “Once we’re back on the ground, we get to see the faces of the crowd and see the excitement they have for the show,” he said. “That’s when we get to interact and try to inspire the next generation of aviators and see kids’ faces light up when we get to talk to them about aviation, airplanes, and flying.” Perhaps that is the true heart of an air show. Somewhere in that crowd on June 27 will be a little boy or girl staring up at the sky in complete amazement. Maybe they will grip their parents’ hands tighter as jets thunder overhead. Maybe they will watch a pilot climb from the cockpit and think, “I want to do that someday.” Years from now, that child may become a pilot, mechanic, engineer, air traffic controller or military aviator because of one unforgettable summer afternoon in Texarkana.

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

Members of the U.S. Army Golden Knights will perform patriotic parachute demonstrations during the Texarkana Airshow, including precision jumps carrying the American flag.

The airshow is being coordinated with the expertise of David Schultz Airshows, a nationally respected organization celebrating 33 years of service. The company has built its reputation around safety, precision, and professionalism, even earning recognition from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for extraordinary service. They were recognized in June 2013 as the first airshow company to receive the “FAA Regional Administrator’s Award for Extraordinary Service.” At David Schultz Airshows, everything revolves around safety. That same precision is what audiences will witness in the sky. “Many people seeking their pilot’s license struggle to fly around a point in a perfect circle or fly a perfect rectangle, both of which are required by the FAA to award someone a private license,” Sanders explained. “Typically, it takes 60 to 70 hours of practice to be able to do those maneuvers. What you see at the airshow is light-years beyond basic private pilot maneuvers. You have to look at each maneuver as a work of art that took literal years to perfect.” Sanders compares the performances to masterpieces hanging in museums. “Just like someone could be struck by the Mona Lisa or an original Norman Rockwell, a perfectly executed inverted loop happening simultaneously with three other aircraft is just as much a work of art and mastery.” That is what makes an airshow so special. It is patriotism. It is engineering. It is courage, precision, and imagination. It is history roaring overhead while future dreams take shape below. As America celebrates 250 years of independence this July, the Texarkana Airshow will serve as a reminder that our nation’s story has always been written by dreamers willing to look up. On June 27, thousands of eyes in Texarkana will do exactly that!

opportunity to see many of the different niches in aviation to help you envision where you fit in.” Sanders speaks about aviation not simply as a profession but as a lifelong calling. “Aviation matters to me about as much as water matters to a fish,” he said. “It’s not what I do, but very much a part of who I am.” He hopes the airshow will help connect Texarkana to greater opportunities and remind people that the city is ready to grow. “I want my two daughters to grow up in a community that is plugged into limitless opportunities,” he said. “Events like this connect Texarkana to a global network and signal to the rest of aviation that we are open for business.” City leaders agree. “The airshow is a great opportunity to bring people together to showcase Texarkana and, at the same time, create a positive economic and community impact for our region,” said David Orr, City Manager of Texarkana, Texas. Tyler Richards, City Manager for Texarkana, Arkansas, echoed these sentiments. “The 2026 airshow will be a tremendous opportunity for Texarkana to showcase our community as a great place to live, work and invest,” Richards said. “We are excited to show our visitors the pride and hospitality Texarkana offers.” Behind the scenes, the event has required enormous commitment to planning and safety. Sanders noted that the airshow safety and logistics committee has spent two years coordinating emergency response efforts, including on-site medical, law enforcement, airfield firefighters, and city firefighters. The Department of Homeland Security has provided cybersecurity assets to ensure we have a secure event. The airport conducted a mass casualty exercise earlier this year with TC students to stress-test the emergency response, where over 80 people were rendered care and evacuated. This event included every emergency response agency in our area.

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

WHAT NOT TO BRING • Tinted tote • Pattern plastic bag • Mesh bag • Excessively large bags • Large coolers • Pets • Outside food or drink, including alcohol

Airshow Essentials

• Metal or glass bottles • All weapons (including mace, pepper spray) • Portable tents, pop up

tents, canopies, large umbrellas, inflatables • Bicycles, scooters, skateboards, inline skates, heelies

• Flammable items • Illegal narcotics • Balls and frisbees

• Laser pointers • Noisemakers • Drones, kites, balloons, radio controlled vehicles

WHAT TO BRING • Cameras and tripods • Clear water bottles (free water will be available at the event) • Small handheld umbrellas • Comfortable clothing • Wagons and strollers • Small, soft-sided coolers • Positive attitude

APPROVED BAGS • CLEAR TOTE

12" x 6" x 12" size limit plastic, vinyl, or pvc

• STORAGE BAG 1 gallon size limit re-sealable, clear • CLUTCH PURSE 4.5" x 6.5" size limit All bags are subject to search.

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

SCHEDULE & INFORMATION Saturday, June 27, 2026

7:00 AM Run the Runway 5k*

Airshow Gates Open at 10 AM ONGOING ACTIVITIES • Outlaw Barbecue Association Competition* • Ride the Runway* • Precision Exotics Rides*

General Admission— $ 10 Kids 13 and under are free with a General Admission adult purchase Parking (Includes Shuttle)— $ 25 General Admission parking will be located at the Four States Fairgrounds, with shuttles running to and from the airfield. The shuttles will be air-conditioned charter buses and include cargo space for folding chairs, strollers, and collapsible wagons. VIP Parking— $ 100 VIP parking will be at 201 Airport Drive, the former airport terminal.

* Not included with airshow admission. Separate registration required to participate.

MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT 12:00 PM Heather Linn and the Deacons 1:15 PM Cam Allen 2:45 PM Wade Bowen

For more information and to purchase tickets, scan here to visit texarkanaairshow.com

AIR ENTERTAINMENT 4:30 PM Opening Ceremonies featuring the US Army Golden Knights and Undaunted Airshows, accompanied by the national anthem 5:00 PM Undaunted Airshows XA-42 Aerobatics 6:00 PM Harley-Davidson Ride the Runway Vampire DH-115 Aerobatics

CGAS New Orleans MH-60 Search & Rescue Demo Precision Exotics Race World War II Airborne Parachute Team Warbird Flyover Outlaw Jet Team L-39s

7:00 PM Big Papa Skybolt Aerobatics Full Throttle Formation Team 7:45 PM Precision Exotics Race

Outlaws Formation Team (XA-42 & L-39) US Army Golden Knights SRC Airshows GB1 Gamebird Aerobatics US Army Golden Knights Twilight Show

8:15 PM

9:00 PM Airshow Ends

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

We Got a Sitter for This TASTE BUDS GOES ON A DOWNTOWN DOUBLE DATE BY SHELBY AND ANDREW Mc ELHANY, JOY AND RAY SANDEFUR

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

Shelby When Andrew floated the idea of a double date night downtown for the Taste Buds column, I didn’t even let him finish the sentence. Yes. Absolutely yes. The grandparents were called, the sitter situation was handled, and the girls were finally getting a night out, because if you have been reading this column for any length of time, you know we are the wives behind those tired dads. We have earned this. What followed was one of those evenings that remind you why you love where you live. We started with cocktails at The Eagle Bourbon and Wine Lounge, laughed our way through fun golf games at Tee It Up Golf Lounge, and ended the night at Verona with food so good we were still talking about it on the drive home. Downtown Texarkana delivered in every way: the ambiance, the energy, the food, the fun. If you have been sleeping on what’s happening down there, consider this your wake-up call. Ray One of the things I appreciate most about downtown Texarkana is how easy it makes a date night. Park once, and the whole evening unfolds on foot. No shuffling cars, no debating where to go next— just good company and a short walk between great stops. We called ahead to Verona earlier in the day to lock in a reservation, which I would recommend if you’re planning to make a night of it. Beyond that, the evening took care of itself. There is something about being downtown on a night when it’s all lit up and busy that feels a little like being somewhere else entirely—somewhere bigger, somewhere with more going on. But Texarkana has that if you just know where to look. This night was a good reminder of that. Andrew If you want to impress someone—a first date, an out-of-town guest, your wife who is skeptical about your choices—take them to The Eagle Bourbon and Wine Lounge and let the room do the talking. The moment you walk in, you feel it: the warm light and exposed brick of a beautifully renovated building from the 1800s that somehow manages to feel both historic and completely alive. New Orleans and Charleston both came to mind, and neither comparison feels like a stretch. Melissa and Chris Fuller opened The Eagle less than a year ago, and what they have built is genuinely unlike anything else we have downtown. The cocktail menu alone is worth the visit, with drinks named for Texarkana landmarks that are both clever and well-executed, including The Grim, Broad Street Sour, Union Station, and the Stateline Sazerac. I went with The Smoked Eagle, a sophisticated riff on an old-fashioned with just enough smoke to give it real depth and richness. We also made short work of the jalapeño pimento cheese spread, served on toasted naan triangles with crumbled bacon and fresh jalapeño slices. It was the perfect kick to a classic southern bite. There are small plates and desserts to round things out, whether you’re stopping in after work or winding down after dinner. We did both, and I regret nothing.

Shared plates and signature cocktails set the scene at The Eagle, where house-made jalapeño pimento cheese is served with toasted naan triangles, crispy bacon, and fresh jalapeño slices.

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

On a return visit, I tried the Second Breakfast Old Fashioned. It was incredible with its hint of maple, coffee, and bacon-infused bourbon. It tastes like the best breakfast you have ever had, served in a glass, at night. Go get one. As an avid golfer, I was elated when I heard we were going to the Tee It Up Golf Lounge as part of our couple’s date night during Downtown Live. My wife, on the other hand, did not think that the words “golf” and “date” could coexist in the same sentence. I will do my best to cover all the entertainment options this place offers, but first, I have to say that Shelby walked out saying, “We need to come back and do this again!” Lance Scott, owner of Tee It Up, has been involved in the Texarkana golf community for many years, and to see what he has built downtown is truly impressive. There are three hitting bays, plus a fourth option that is remote and can be brought out on location, all using Foresight simulators. There are dozens of games to play, including options like TopGolf and courses the pros play, like Pinehurst, Pebble Beach, and Torrey Pines. If you have ever played golf on a simulator, you know how hard putting can be. Not at Tee It Up, thanks to the Puttview putting green. This technology reads where you hit your ball on the green, then lets you go over to the putting green and sink the putt for real. It’s like playing a video game in real life. Shelby and Joy enjoyed playing tic-tac-toe, putt-pong, and other games on the Puttview, while Ray and I played a quick round of TopGolf on the Foresight. Lance also offers club fittings and club repair, which is great for golfers of all skill levels. For the avid or serious golfer, this is a great place to get your swing data, practice on a rainy day (or when it’s 105 degrees outside), or do a club or putter fitting. For the more casual golfer or someone new to the game, this is a great place to enjoy golf without the traditional feel of a round. There are also tournaments and league options posted on their social media. You really need to check it out.

Shelby McElhany and Joy Sandefur compete in a game of tic-tac-toe at Tee It Up Golf Lounge.

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

Ray Verona Restaurant & Wine Bar has been a downtown fixture since 2015, and there’s a reason it keeps showing up on every list of Texarkana’s best. The space is warm and unhurried, candlelit in the best way, with an atmosphere that makes you want to order another glass of wine just to stay a little longer. The wine list is solid, and the food makes you slow down and actually pay attention to what you’re eating. Our server, Jacob, was excellent from the start— knowledgeable, attentive, and responsible for one of the evening’s best calls. That recommendation was Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon, and it set the tone for everything that followed. Caymus is a wine that earns its reputation every single time—a rich, full-bodied Napa Valley Cabernet with deep notes of dark fruit, hints of vanilla and mocha, and a finish smooth enough to make you forget you were planning to stop after one glass. It paired beautifully with the food and complemented the evening perfectly. I ordered the blackened snapper with rock shrimp risotto, and it was outstanding. The fish had a beautifully charred, spiced crust that gave way to tender, flaky snapper underneath. The heat was real and intentional, not just for show. The rock shrimp risotto alongside it was rich and creamy, loaded with flavor, and the two together made for a combination I would order again without a second thought. I also had the chopped wedge salad, and it deserves its own shoutout. It was crisp, cold iceberg stacked with toppings, dressed just right, and substantial enough to feel like a full course. Andrew started with the Caesar salad made with romaine, freshly made dressing with just the right amount of anchovy depth and lemon brightness, shaved Parmesan that melted into every bite, and house-made croutons with a satisfying crunch. A Caesar salad could be easy to phone in, but Verona took the time to do it right. It was exactly what a Caesar should be. Andrew tackled the night’s special—devil’s shrimp pasta, which our menu listed with a Sicilian name none of us caught or can remember, but the dish itself needed no translation. It arrived in a deep, glossy sauce built on heat and butter, the kind that coats every strand of pasta and makes you want to drag bread through the bowl when no one is looking. The shrimp were

(above) Jacob, a server at Verona, pours Shelby a glass of Caymus Cabernet (right).

(below L-R) Burrata Appetizer Chopped Wedge Salad Insalate Caesar Salad

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

(L-R) Braised Beef Cannelloni Blackened Snapper Evening Special, Devil’s Shrimp Pasta Steak Frites

Four-Layer Chocolate Cake & Creme Brulee

plump and perfectly cooked, soaking up all of that bold, spicy richness. Joy chose the braised beef cannelloni, a rich combination of braised beef, mozzarella, tomato sauce, and truffle. The pasta was tender, the beef filling was flavorful without being too heavy, and the tomato sauce added just the right balance. The truffle gave the dish a subtle earthy finish that worked well with the richness of the mozzarella and beef. It was warm, comforting, and beautifully done without overcomplicating the dish. Shelby opted for the steak frites, and it was a standout. The steak arrived cooked exactly as ordered—a beautiful sear on the outside, tender and juicy all the way through, with enough flavor that it needed nothing extra. The frites, thin, crispy, and perfectly salted, were the kind you keep reaching for even when you’re full. It’s a deceptively simple dish that only works when every element is done right, and Verona got every element right. We knew the babysitters were waiting, but we ordered the chocolate cake and crème brûlée anyway, and we have zero regrets. Crème brûlée was a childhood favorite of mine, and Verona absolutely did it justice. The chocolate cake arrived looking as if it was meant to serve a table twice our size—dense, dark, and deeply chocolatey, with frosting thick enough to stand on its own. The crème brûlée was silky and perfectly set, with that satisfying crack of caramelized sugar on top that never gets old and takes me right back every single time. Four adults who had already eaten too much gave it everything they had, and we almost finished it. Portions are generous, the vibe is relaxed, and the atmosphere encourages conversations that keep going long past the time you meant to leave. Call ahead, slow down, order the Caymus, and do not skip dessert. You will not regret a single bite. Joy Turns out the best night out we have had in a while was about ten minutes from our front door. Who knew? Downtown Texarkana did! It has been waiting on us the whole time. Make the reservation, call the sitter, and go. But you may need to warn the babysitter not to wait up.

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

T he first thing I noticed was how blue the water looked. It wasn’t regular blue either… vacation blue. It was that blue you see on Instagram that looks fake in photos and makes everybody back home comment things like “Need this!” while sitting in traffic on their lunch break. The four of us stood there for a second when we first arrived, just staring at the ocean as if we had discovered it ourselves. I think that’s what vacations really are at their core—grown adults paying thousands of dollars to temporarily believe life is softer than it actually is, right? And it’s worth every penny, let’s not lie. The resort itself looked like something out of a White Lotus episode. Palm trees were swaying dramatically in the wind. White curtains were blowing outside beachfront rooms. Fancy people were walking around carrying drinks that had cucumber slices floating in them for absolutely no reason. Love that. I spent the week doing what I do best: observing everything. Vacations are fascinating because people become who they wish they were all year long. The stressed-out become relaxed. The insecure become confident. The exhausted become adventurous. Even if it’s only temporary. There was one night in particular that I will never forget. The four of us sat outside by the water long after everybody else had gone inside. The air was warm; the waves were loud enough to drown out every stressful thought I had carried with me, and for the first time in a long time, life felt still. No notifications to tend to. Busy schedules felt like a thing of the past. We felt no pressure to constantly be productive. We were just four friends laughing until our stomachs hurt while the ocean crashed in front of us. As I get older, I realize the most valuable thing we have is time. Every day counts, and these are the best ones. They are the ones you don’t want to rush, and it’s not because they are extravagant. Everybody is so busy and tired now. Everybody is healing from something. Of course, on vacation, we easily pay twenty-seven dollars for a smoothie that tastes exactly like one we could get at Walmart for $3.98. I’m so naturally pale and always get so sunburnt that it quickly becomes medically concerning. And I’ve discovered that luxury restaurants will put the tiniest amount of food imaginable on a plate and then decorate it with a leaf for confidence. But I understand why people chase experiences like this. Life doesn’t magically become perfect beside the ocean, but sometimes changing your scenery, even temporarily, reminds you that life can still surprise you. You see there is still beauty and laughter and some softness amongst the sharp edges of the world. Thank God! By the last morning, of course, none of us really wanted to leave. We stood on the beach holding coffees, already talking about “next year” like people do when they are trying to keep a good thing alive for just a few seconds longer. The waves crashed. The breeze moved through the trees. The sun reflected across the water. And then the lady behind me at Dairy Queen yelled, “Sir, are you gonna pull forward or not?” Because none of this actually happened. I have never been on a luxury vacation. There was no beachfront resort. No ocean. No matching swimsuits. No spiritual healing beside the waves. The entire trip was something I made up, daydreaming in my car in Texarkana while everybody else on social media spent the summer in Greece, Florida, Cancun, Italy, and probably the moon. But for a few minutes, I could almost hear the ocean over the sound of Richmond Road traffic. That felt close enough.

GOOD EVENING TXK COLUMN BY BAILEY GRAVITT

SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

TXK Book Club JUNE RECOMMENDATION

Faces & Places JUNE

June 3 Tunnel to Towers Steel Across America 500 North State Line Avenue 11 am–1 pm June 4 Abstract Pet Workshop with Dr. Charlotte Hueter TRAHC’s ArtSpace 6–8 pm June 6 Children’s Miracle Network Fundraiser Texarkana Harley-Davidson 11 am–3 pm June 6, 13, 20, 27 Texarkana Farmers Market 500 North State Line Avenue 8 am–12 pm June 12 Downtown Live! A Taste of Downtown Progressive Dinner Downtown Texarkana 6–9 pm June 12–14

JUNE 20-21 UAHT James Black School of Bladesmithing and Historic Trades Historic Washington State Park 8 am-5 pm June 26–28 Arkansas Youth Leadership Camp Camp Preston Hunt June 27 Run the Runway 5K Texarkana Regional Airport 7 am June 27 TXK Airshow Texarkana Regional Airport 10 am–9 pm

BOOK The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd GENRE Historical Fiction RATING

SYNOPSIS The Secret Life of Bees is a deeply moving novel set in South Carolina during the summer of 1964.

Fourteen-year-old Lily Owens has grown up haunted by the memory of her mother’s death and by the cruelty of her distant father. Longing for answers and a place where she feels loved, Lily runs away with Rosaleen, the Black woman who has cared for her since childhood, and follows the only clue she has to her mother’s past—an image of a Black Madonna printed on a jar of honey. Their journey leads them to the Boatwright sisters, three beekeeping women whose home becomes a refuge filled with warmth, wisdom, and healing. As Lily learns about beekeeping, sisterhood, faith, and the complicated realities of the Civil Rights Movement, she slowly uncovers the truth about her mother and herself. A coming-of-age story at its heart, the novel beautifully explores themes of grief, forgiveness, race, identity, and the human need for belonging. Through tender relationships and richly emotional storytelling, Sue Monk Kidd creates a story that is both heartbreaking and hopeful, reminding readers that love can often be found in the most unexpected places. READER’S TAKE “ The Secret Life of Bees is an emotional story that’s the perfect mix of heartache and hope. One of the most beautiful parts of the story is the way it portrays the strong female relationships—women supporting, healing, and loving one another through hardships. So good!” —Heather Kiser

Runnin’ JW Ranch Benefit Barrel Race Four States Fair Entertainment Center June 18 Van Gogh Impressionism Workshop TRAHC’s ArtSpace 6–8 pm

Faces & Places showcases community events. View photos from local happenings on our website, txkmag.com . “Everyone is famous in their hometown.”

SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

2026 TEXARKANA MAGAZINE SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

You do not have to travel far from Texarkana to discover unforgettable escapes. Whether you are looking for riverside relaxation, outdoor adventure, a cozy cabin stay, or a family-friendly destination, there is something nearby for everyone. Unwind in a luxury treehouse tucked into the woods of Hot Springs National Park, gather family and friends for a spacious riverfront

stay, or enjoy peaceful evenings near Lake Greeson. From scenic hiking trails and boating excursions to championship golf courses and charming small towns rich in Southern hospitality, the surrounding region offers experiences for every kind of traveler. Explore unique vacation rentals, seasonal events, wildlife attractions, and outdoor recreation designed for both quiet weekends and memorable adventures. Your next getaway may be closer than you think.

2026 ESCAPE CLOSE TO HOME

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

RIDGE RETREAT PHOTOS BY MATT CORNELIUS

LIFE & STYLE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

LIFE & STYLE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE S et along a quiet stretch of countryside in De Kalb, Texas, this modern ranch was designed as a second home, a place to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. The kind of quiet you can’t find in everyday life. From the beginning, the vision was simple: create a comfortable ranch retreat with elevated touches, where natural materials and open views set the tone. Inside, warm whites and soft earth tones keep the palette easy and inviting, layered with natural wood accents and black finishes for contrast. An oversized kitchen island anchors the main living space, surrounded by custom stonework that adds texture and character without feeling heavy. Large windows bring in steady natural light and frame the landscape, making the outdoors feel like part of the home. That connection becomes even more apparent outside, where the entertaining area overlooks the pond and serves as a gathering place. It’s where weekends stretch a little longer, family and friends naturally come together, and the pace feels a little slower. Set across 75 acres of rolling hills, the property is anchored by a fully stocked, six-acre pond that adds both beauty and recreation to the landscape. What started as a peaceful getaway has evolved into something more, a setting designed for hosting, celebrating, and making memories. With plans for future event rentals, this property is already stepping into its next chapter.

LIFE & STYLE

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64 Page 65 Page 66 Page 67 Page 68 Page 69 Page 70 Page 71 Page 72 Page 73 Page 74 Page 75 Page 76

www.txkmag.com

Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs