March 2023

Texarkana Magazine

MARCH • 2023

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE March | 2023 | Volume 4 | Issue 3

48. LIFE The Cool Group 50. STYLE Reviving the Past 60. TXK 411 Seven Attributes for Success

10. BUSINESS Legal and Financial Profiles 14. BUSINESS Mrs. Slightly Sophisticated

24.

32. CULTURE The Places You’ll Go 40. SPORTS Get in the Game 42. ENTERTAINMENT Good Evening TXK

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66.

16. cover/POLITICS Protecting the Community 24. COMMUNITY Pitch It Texarkana

64. THE MONTHLY MIX Dressing in (Pantone ® ) Color for Spring 66.

50.

TXK ROOTS Tareka Lofton

How do you want to be remembered?

CASSY MEISENHEIMER …for doing the right thing.

TERRI SANDEFUR …for my laugh and making other people laugh.

SHELBY AKIN …for putting a smile on your face.

KARA HUMPHREY …as being loyal, forgiving, compassionate, and available.

MATT CORNELIUS …for how well I loved.

LEAH ORR …for being a good mom.

BRITT EARNEST … for being sincere.

BRITTANY ROBLES …for a kind heart.

HILLARY CLOUD …for making people feel loved and seen.

LIZ FLIPPO …for our home being a safe and welcoming place for all who entered.

BAILEY GRAVITT …for bringing joy to people’s lives.

TERRI GRAVITT …for making others feel better about themselves after spending time with me.

MEGAN GRIFFIN …for loving others well.

CHRISTI SEARS HERRINGTON …for unconditional love.

TIFFANY HORTON …for my Christian faith and being kind and loyal.

SONJA HUBBARD …for making a positive difference.

MASON WHITE …for loving like Jesus does.

PAULA SHANKLES …as being genuine, kind, and compassionate.

MRS. SLIGHTLY SOPHISTICATED …for being a good wife, mother, and friend.

CONTRIBUTORS

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

txkmag.com letstalk@txkmag.com 903.949.1460 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 SHELBY AKIN shelby@txkmag.com KARA HUMPHREY kara@txkmag.com LEAH ORR leah@txkmag.com BRITT EARNEST britt@txkmag.com BRITTANY ROBLES brittany@txkmag.com MATT CORNELIUS matt@txkmag.com Local Sources CLARE ANGIER JOHN LUKE ANGIER MARY CAROLINE ANGIER

F or all fifteen years of our marriage, my husband Fred has wanted a camper for traveling. I grew up camping, and I loved it, but because of my experience, I know how much work goes into owning one. It is not like a hotel where you arrive and immediately start resting. After pulling into your destination, a camper then requires you to hook up all the pieces, set up all the things, make everything level, and do a good amount of organizing before you can relax and enjoy yourself. Then you get to do it all over again when you are ready to head home. Nevertheless, Fred’s wish has finally come true. We have purchased a 2009 camper from my friend Tammie Luthringer, whose family made many beautiful memories in it. So, despite the extra work, I feel privileged we will get to do the same thing. Our boys both play golf, and like most modern-day parents with kids in youth sports, we jumped in with both feet. What that looks like for us is spending every other weekend on the road so the boys can play in junior golf tournaments. The funny thing about this is that I did not let my kids play baseball because I refused to spend every weekend at a game. Who is laughing now? Not me; I should have kept my mouth shut about what I was not going to do. So, in theory, every other weekend, we will pull this camper to whatever town is hosting the next tournament. Basically, we are going camping in the deep woods (near the closest country club) of DFW… you know… really roughing it. To take this experience to the next level, I thought it would be fun to renovate said camper and make it our own. It was fun the first week,

but a month later I am ready to be DONE! It was fine the way it was; why did I think I needed to do this? Oh, and because I am just a little “extra,” I have started an Instagram page for our new home away from home, which we are affectionately calling the “19th Hole.” We are taking the 19th Hole on its inaugural trip as this issue is hitting the stands. I will report back on the reality of how this all goes down. Say a prayer for us as we attempt backing the camper in and hooking up all the stuff for the first time. We will need it. We are convinced the extra effort will be well worth it. This month’s cover story features Bowie County Assistant District Attorneys Kelley Crisp and Lauren Richards. These two incredible ladies exemplify the importance of never taking shortcuts, and they take the idea of “extra effort” to the next level. Every day, they are rocking the courtroom and ensuring local justice is served. They are humble servants who are making our community safer, and we are lucky to have them fighting on our side. Other great stories this month include an update on our previous Pitch It Texarkana winner and what is new for this year’s entrepreneurial competition, excellent career advice from Sonja Hubbard, a feature celebrating a Texarkana native who recently competed on the national baking stage, our beloved monthly staples, and much more. I hope you enjoy this season as our days are getting longer (thank goodness) and everything is coming back into bloom!

PHILIP ANGIER ANGELA EVANS LESLI FLOWERS TAMMY LUMMUS VICKI MCMAHON JOE REGAN

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 .

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

NORTON + WOOD Small Town Firm. Big City Practice.

TEXARKANA LEGAL & FINANCIAL PROFILES

315 Main Street Post Office Box 1808 Texarkana, TX 75504-1808 903-823-1321 www.nortonandwood.com

SPECIALTIES Tax Law, Estate and Asset Protection Planning, Business, Professional, and Nonprofit

Behind every successful individual, you will likely find a trusted advisor—or team of them. For the best results, you need a professional managing legal and financial matters. Professional experts inform you about your options, help you explore new ideas, and work with you to navigate the road ahead.

Associates Jaci Roberts Berry and Jacob Hill are seated behind partners Richard Kroll, Fred Norton, and Marshall Wood.

Entities, Business and Commercial Litigation

OUR QUALIFICATIONS We proudly describe our partnership as “a small town law firm with a big city practice.” Recognized with Martindale-Hubbell’s highest peer-review rating of “AV,” we have built a regional reputation and retained a prestigious and diverse client list— from multi-national corporations to privately-owned concerns. With attorneys licensed in Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma, we have the collective expertise and resources to offer most, if not all, of the legal services required by business owners and their families. We value and model integrity and hard work. All our attorneys were born and raised in Texarkana and chose to return here to practice law. We commit our time and resources to help businesses and individuals throughout our community as we work together to get the best possible results for our clients. OUR SERVICES Our firm has a strong litigation and transactional practice. Chief among the areas where representatives from our firm are involved include: Tax Planning, Tax Controversy, Business, Professional and Nonprofit Organizations, Trusts and Estates, Probate and Estate Administration, Wealth Preservation, Estate Planning, Asset Protection, Elder Law, Complex Business Litigation, Personal Injury Litigation, Commercial Litigation, Employment Law Litigation, and Probate Litigation. In those areas where we choose not to practice, we maintain strategic alliances with specialists across the United States and in other countries whom we regard to be outstanding in their fields. These specialists are available to us and our clients at a moment’s notice, and we select the right lawyer for the specific opportunity or problem to provide the client with effective results.

85% Grants We are proud of its rich history and even more excited about its future growth. We support the economic and cultural development and reinvention of historic downtown Texarkana. We sponsor the green space next to us named “ArtSpark,” where revolving exhibitions of art created by local school districts are always on display. The Scott Joplin Mural adorns the south wall of our office building. This unique artwork honors the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical pioneer from Texarkana. The mural celebrates Texarkana’s rich cultural history and features a musical score from the final measures of the famous Joplin composition, “The Entertainer.” The mural has garnered nationwide attention for its tribute to the American Ragtime composer. OUR CLIENT APPEAL You want and deserve an attorney you can trust to represent you and your legal interests knowledgeably and aggressively. At Norton + Wood, we have assembled a committed, experienced team of legal professionals to assist you. We consider ourselves problem solvers—inventive and conscientious in our approach. But we are also passionate about you, our client. We keep your best interests at the heart of each case, each transaction, each controversy. Let us help you by solving problems and seizing opportunities—by producing creative legal solutions that are imaginative, yet practical. OUR INVESTMENT IN COMMUNITY We love working in Texarkana almost as much as we love living here. That is why we do our part to give back whenever possible—by volunteering our time, contributing our resources, and offering our legal services to community causes. All of us are Texarkana natives, and we are invested in its success.

The legal and financial professionals participating in this special advertising section provided the information in these articles. Texarkana Magazine and Cardinal Publishing have not independently verified the data.

TEXARKANA LEGAL & FINANCIAL 2023

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

COMMERCIAL NATIONAL BANK Texarkana’s Community Bank

WHAT SETS US APART Founded on the premise of being “The People’s Bank,” Commercial National Bank (CNB) has served the Texarkana community for over 50 years. CNB is the oldest locally owned community bank in Texarkana, and next year will be our 60th anniversary! We have remained committed to the downtown area of Texarkana, striving to reinvest in our community and serve our community’s financial needs. It’s the CNB Way! GIVING BACK Commercial National Bank’s primary mission is to serve the banking and economic needs of Texarkana and the surrounding counties of Miller, Arkansas, and Bowie, Texas. CNB has

244 East 4th Street Texarkana, AR 71854 870-773-4561 cnbtxk.com

SERVICES Personal Checking, Savings, CDs, and Loans Business Checking, CDs, and Loans Mortgages Electronic Banking Debit and Credit Cards

always been a responsible member of the business community and is committed to the best interests of citizens in the Texarkana and the surrounding areas through living the core values of trust, respect, listening, being responsive, and striving for relentless improvement. Founder George W. Peck, Sr. opening the doors to the first CNB location downtown.

FARMERS BANK & TRUST To Us, You’re Family

WHAT SETS US APART With over 116 years of service, Farmers Bank & Trust and our employees contain a wealth of experience, knowledge, and support that help us cater to any season of life. With multiple branches in Arkansas, Texas, and Oklahoma, we are conveniently located throughout the region. We also feature a host of online and virtual banking options to better integrate hassle-free and easy-to-use technology into the busyness of today. OUR APPROACH Over the last decade, FB&T has donated over $1 million to charitable and educational endeavors in Texarkana. Our approach always has been, and always will be, one based on relationships and public service.

2900 St. Michael Drive 5600 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 75503 3601 E 9th Stret 1102 Arkansas Boulevard Texarkana, AR 71854

Texarkana Lending & Branch Management Staff

“We strive every day to build the best relationships possible with our customers and within our community. We can achieve this by following our Core Values of HEART (Honesty, Excellence, Adaptability, Respect, and Teamwork).

960 S Constitution Avenue Ashdown, AR 71822

These are not just hollow words to us, but they are the very backbone on which our institution was built and a part of our banking DNA.”

903-791-0490 MyFarmers.Bank

—James Bramlett, Texarkana Market President

TEXARKANA LEGAL & FINANCIAL 2023

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

I was recently promoted at work to a traveling position. I am in sales, so I am going to be entertaining clients. I feel I need to brush up on my dining etiquette. What are some of the biggest mistakes? Dear Fish Out of Water, Most mistakes come from one simple habit. That is overindulgence. Whether it be from alcohol or simply being over the top with your voice and language, all apply. Of course, basic table etiquette is required at business meals. Emily Post has a list of ten top rules. 1. Chew with your mouth closed. 2. Keep your smartphone off the table and set to silent or vibrate. Wait to check calls and texts until you are finished with the meal and away from the table. 3. Hold utensils correctly. Don’t use your fork or spoon like a shovel or stab your food. 4. Wash up and come to the table clean. Do not groom or attend to hygiene at the table. 5. Remember to use your napkin. 6. Wait until you are done chewing to sip or swallow a drink. 7. Pace yourself with fellow diners. Cut only one piece of food at a time. 8. Avoid slouching, and don’t place your elbows on the table while eating (though it is okay to prop your elbows on the table while conversing between courses, and always has been, even in Emily’s day). 9. Instead of reaching across the table for something, ask for it to be passed to you. 10. Bring your best self to the meal. Take part in the dinner conversation. You would be surprised how many adults smack and talk with food in their mouths. All of this seems like common sense when you think about it. Don’t act like you are at a trough, and everything will be okay. There are a few finer points, though. You can either cut and move your food the American style or Continental. In American style, you put the knife down on the plate and turn the fork toward the sky. In Continental, you do not put down the knife, and the fork points toward the plate. If you are confused about where your bread plate is located, put your index finger and thumb together on both hands (under the table, of course). Your left hand makes a lowercase “b.” Your right hand makes a lowercase “d.” Read the room. If you are at a French restaurant, do not order a cheeseburger. If the restaurant is a steakhouse, do not insult the chef by asking for steak sauce. If you do that, you might as well go home and pick up Applebees on the way there—big no-no. Reading the room also brings me back to my first suggestion. If the place is a noisy and boisterous room, feel free to use a louder volume at the table. If it is quiet and elegant, amend your tone. Never drink more than your guests. No one wants to do business with someone who passes out in their soup. No one wants to do business with someone who talks about themselves the whole time. Engage your guests. Be yourself and take your time with your meal. Almost any minor mistake can be rectified or may even go unnoticed. But not the steak sauce. Everyone will remember that.

Dear Mrs. (Slightly) Sophisticated, I have a co-worker who always sends

snarky emails when we have group projects. She is not my supervisor, nor is she a friend. What are the rules of email that we all should use? How do I respond to this?

Dear Non-Confrontational Communicator, Email should be treated

like a face-to-face meeting. Never say anything in an email you would not say to someone in a face-to-face meeting. That being said, many people do not understand this rule. There are many basic rules to professional correspondence, but they all boil down to my first sentence. I am happy to give examples and explain.

Punctuation— Use of all caps and exclamation points should be used sparingly. They both imply screaming or shouting. Would you shout in a business meeting with everyone around you? That is exactly what you are doing in an email with either of these items. Passive Aggressive— People often use this in emails to belittle others. Some also use it in reply to rude emails. Neither is helpful. You both look to others like you are still in middle school. Indirect Tone— This seems to be the most common in rude office emails. Below is an example: “What is the status of the presentation boards for the group project? I have not heard anything about them! I hope that those are taken care of, as they are vital to the presentation! I need to know if they have even been started!” We are all in the same group. The sender of the group email is not in charge, nor do they deserve to be. My advice is just to hit the nail on the head. Use “reply all” sparingly, as it just adds more fuel to the fire and gets nothing accomplished. Reply to the person and let them know that, as a co-worker, you expect proper email etiquette to be followed in the office. If this still does not seem to work, please take up the matter with human resources. If this still does not get the outcome you would like, you may need to go to a supervisor. Ask human resources or your supervisor about sending out company-wide communication regarding email etiquette. This person may think they are actually showing leadership skills by using this behavior. Supervisors should direct them to do otherwise. As a last resort, give me her name, and I will print this and put it on her desk. Not really, but it sounds like fun.

BUSINESS & POLITICS

Bowie County’s First Assistant District Attorney Kelley Crisp (right) and Assistant District Attorney Lauren Richards (left)

PROTECTING THE COMMUNITY BY CHRISTI SEARS HERRINGTON PHOTOS BY MATT CORNELIUS

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

A round the world, strong women are being called to lead their communities in service like never before. From the highest-ranking political offices to global companies on the cutting edge of technology—women are at the helm of it all. Standing on the shoulders of generations of women who came before, the role of women has bloomed to be inclusive of all things, at all times. Texarkana has followed suit, empowering women across all industries and demographics by encouraging the strengths that women bring to the business environment. With the capacity to multitask, listen, empathize, nurture, engage others and see issues from a different perspective, Kelley Crisp and Lauren Richards have humbly risen to the task of bringing justice to those who need it most. These women have keen intelligence and a deep passion for one of the most challenging jobs in law enforcement. Though Crisp is the first female to hold the title Bowie County First Assistant District Attorney, and Richards is among a handful of female pioneers in the position of Bowie County Assistant District Attorney, the two remain advocates for all who support them as the real heroes of the story. Crisp and Richards point to the exceptional job the police perform daily and insist they are always supported by their incredible co- workers who go above and beyond to cover their backs during significant cases. They talk about their husbands, their village, and their community first, because those are the kind of leaders they are: humble, modest. In one of their most recent trials, Crisp and Richards prosecuted Taylor Parker for the murder of a young mother, Reagan Simmons Hancock, and her unborn baby Braxlynn Sage. National news outlets followed the story, and it was the longest trial Bowie County had ever experienced. With a guilty verdict, a jury of six men and six women sentenced Parker to death. This historic outcome makes Parker one of only seven women currently on death row in the State of Texas. While justice was served in this case, there are never any winners after such a loss. “As we prepare a case for trial, nearly every witness and family member we meet is dealing with the most traumatic and

BUSINESS & POLITICS

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

In addition to doing their part to ensure justice for the county, whenever they can, Crisp and Richards make a special effort to connect the police officers in a case with the citizens they have helped, so both sides can share the humanity and love. Crisp remembers when she was a child, people seemed to feel differently about police, and she wants to bring back the bond that once existed between officers and the community at large. Thoughtful behavior and a genuine love for people and the law are nothing new for either half of this dream team. Crisp and Richards both heard their professional calling at a young age. “When I was a little girl, I didn’t even know what the word “attorney” meant… but I still somehow knew that I wanted to be a lawyer,” Richards said. Crisp nodded, “Same here… that’s just always what I wanted to be. And my dad told me I could do it, so I believed I could.” Richards grew up in Texarkana, Texas, and graduated from Pleasant Grove High School. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from The University of Texas at Austin and her Juris Doctor from Baylor Law School. Crisp grew up in Booneville, Arkansas. She has three degrees, including her Juris Doctor, from The University of Arkansas-Fayetteville. The team met in 2006 and became trial partners in 2015. “We are like sisters—connected on a deeper level,” they agreed. In the courtroom, this connection manifests as a gift. Each woman knows what the other is thinking, how she will respond, and what she

Bowie County Assistant District Attorney Lauren Richards

Bowie County First Assistant District Attorney Kelley Crisp

most difficult circumstance they have ever encountered. There is a genuine pain and loss that they are working through in each of the conversations,” Crisp said as Richards nodded her head in agreement. In preparation for the Parker trial, the team worked seven days a week for ten months straight. During the trial, New Boston served as their home, which meant sacrificing social events, family gatherings, and just about every comfort and normalcy you can imagine while they gave 100% of themselves to the case. The volume of work was overwhelming. They had to unpack every aspect of the defendant’s complicated life and leave no stone unturned. “You basically turn into a recluse,” Crisp shared. “Most people have no idea how much preparation and work goes into a trial like this. People see us up there talking to the jury and think that’s it. Hardly! There are hundreds or thousands of hours of preparation and a team of people helping us. While the demands of other jobs require a committed team, the nature of our trials means that people’s lives are on the line and justice hangs in the balance.” The perseverance of this dynamic duo has become very personal. “We are citizens of Bowie County. Our kids live here. Sure, we know we are only two people, but we can set an example for people around us. Maybe we will inspire future young lawyers to want to protect the community like we do,” Richards said. She continued, “We know we can’t save the world, but we can do what we can do to keep it safe here in Bowie County.”

BUSINESS & POLITICS

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

will do next. This allows them to move with more confidence and accuracy in front of the jury. Whether it be telepathy, intellect, or just A+ communication skills, these ladies have found a consistent way to gain the outcomes they seek for the county. There are plenty of challenges. Not only are they a minority as women lawyers, but they are also younger than the majority of practicing attorneys in the region. On occasion, an out-of- town lawyer has shown up and mistakenly underestimated them. Undoubtedly, those underestimations never last long, and Crisp and Richards always remain professional while competently proving themselves daily. They speak affectionately when mentioning the support, they gain from each other. “I don’t know how anyone could do this job without [a partner like] Lauren,” Crisp said. “And vice versa,” Richards followed. Their husbands are also core to their success. Both women credit the men in their lives for unwavering support and selfless attention to their families. Managing kids, church and school activities, friends, and a constant stream of questions about their high-profile wives—their husbands are the glue, helping hold it all together. Is there a next step on the horizon for this legal team? For this pair, the focus is on the here and now. The court has a backlog of cases that desperately need their full attention, and each day adds something new. Crisp and Richards know how vital their work is, so they rarely, if ever, drift from the task at hand. Each day, each case, each minute they are working… that is the minute that matters most—that is where they give their all.

BUSINESS & POLITICS

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

2023 PITCH IT TEXARKANA BY MASON WHITE PHOTOS BY MATT CORNELIUS

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

Jesse Darby-Tillis II presents his idea to the 2022 Pitch It Texarkana judges.

I magine if Texarkana, USA, were a magnet for talent and entrepreneurship in our region. Bright young minds would see a tangible path to success after graduating from our schools, local businesses would have no shortage of eager and industrious recruits, an infectious startup culture would permeate our community, and hometown ingenuity would start to look a lot more like big city innovation. Pitch It Texarkana is a collaborative effort to turn strategic thinking into strategic doing. Born out of a desire to foster new business opportunities in Texarkana, USA, this grassroots project— an entrepreneurial idea audition—aims to inspire go-getters who have dreams of starting their own companies and introduce them to community leaders who could be instrumental in helping turn their dreams into reality. Lesley Ledwell Dukelow was, and continues to be, one of the driving forces behind the initiative. “Pitch It Texarkana all started from Leadership Texarkana’s Strategic Doing Initiative a few years ago,” Dukelow said. “A group of 90 community people who were interested in making Texarkana better got together for a half-day workshop on Strategic Doing. At the end, we separated into groups

to come up with projects to focus on our overarching framework question—Imagine Texarkana, USA, as a magnet for talent and entrepreneurship for our region. What would that look like?” The underlying Strategic Doing model of community success that inspired last year’s inaugural Pitch It event teaches people how to uncover their hidden assets, form a network of collaborations quickly, and advance toward measurable outcomes. The discipline of non-hierarchical cooperation was the very reason why a group of local community members came together to launch Pitch It Texarkana in the first place. By linking and leveraging various resources, the group sought to create an opportunity for local individuals to think outside the box and achieve success within the business community. Similar to the popular TV show Shark Tank , contestants have the opportunity to pitch business startup ideas in three minutes or less to a panel of local entrepreneurs. PowerPoint presentations and formal business plans are not allowed so that there’s more space for the contestant and his/her idea to shine. The judges’ rubric is even posted on the Pitch It website so that everyone has an equal opportunity to prepare their pitch and sharpen their communication

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

MEET 2022 PITCH IT TEXARKANA WINNER JESSE DARBY-TILLIS II

What inspired you to compete in the Pitch It competition? North Texas Small Business Develpment Center (SBDC) suggested I should compete. They thought it would be beneficial to my business. What have you done related to your pitch since winning in 2022? I have talked to several banks and investors. I’ve also started two e-sports scholarships through Texas A&M University-Texarkana and hosted a few video game tournaments to promote my idea. I have also spoken to many schools about their e-sports programs. What does the future look like for you?

2024 looks like I will have the video game lounge with several video game tournaments and several schools competing in the Texarkana area.

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

2022 Pitch It Texarkana commitee members and volunteers—(l-r) front: Natalie Haywood and Robbin Bass; back: Judy Morgan, Mel Walsh, Lisa Sitterley, Lesley Dukelow, Trish Reed, and Patricia Cunningham.

skills. At the end of the competition, the highest scoring contestant will be awarded a $7,500 cash prize, while second and third-place winners will be awarded $5,000 and $2,500 respectively. Pitch It Texarkana’s goal is to support budding entrepreneurs who want to start businesses here locally to help grow Texarkana’s jobs and wealth. “Last year during our inaugural Pitch It Texarkana competition, we heard some very cool pitches for new and needed businesses for our area,” Dukelow said. “We want to be the push that brings these ideas to fruition and, at the same time, remind people that starting your own business doesn’t have to be just a dream—that Pitch It and other organizations in town are here to help.” At last year’s inaugural event, the top prize went to contestant Jesse Darby-Tillis II for his e-sports gaming lounge idea. Darby- Tillis wowed the judges by explaining how a local brick and mortar space would allow gamers of all skill levels to gather and compete while simultaneously offering positive skill-building activities for Texarkana’s youth. Second-place winner Ren Overlock manufactured a ratchet strap prototype for trucks and trailers that regularly tie down cargo loads. Brittney Haynes, the third-place winner of the 2022 competition, imagined a zero waste/refill store in Texarkana with the dream of providing an eco-friendly alternative to shopping for household products like laundry detergent without all the excess packaging and toxic plastics. “Pitch It Texarkana will ideally become part of the fabric of our community, supporting and nurturing business ideas and the people with the passion and ambition to grow Texarkana,” Dukelow said. The next round of the Pitch It Texarkana entrepreneurial idea competition is Thursday, March 30, 2023, at Crossties Event Venue in downtown Texarkana. For more information and to sign up for your chance to win $7,500 in just three short minutes, apply today at pitchittexarkana.com .

Red River Federal Credit Union President/CEO Brad Bailey presents Jesse Darby-Tillis II with the first place check.

The top five finalists for 2022 Pitch It Texarkana: Jorge Morales, Brittney Haynes, Jesse Darby-Tillis II, Antony Hopkins, and Ren Overlock.

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

Little did Tareka Lofton know how true these words from Dr. Seuss’s well-known children’s book would be when she was a little girl growing up in Texarkana. She could not imagine the sights she would see or to what heights her natural talent, creativity, and work ethic would take her. Lofton’s parents were well-loved and respected members of the Texarkana community. Her father, Superintendent Mickey D. Lofton, was a pastor, and her mother, Emma Lofton, owned Lofton Beauty Salon on State Line for almost 35 years. “I come from a family of strong entrepreneurs. My grandmother was a master baker. She knew how to bake pies, cakes, and custards. Everything I would be formally trained to do—she knew how to do it,” Lofton said. “My mother owned a beauty salon, so I grew up knowing it was possible. I feel very fortunate because every young girl does not always see that demonstrated.” Lofton grew up with her two sisters on the Arkansas side of Texarkana and attended Kilpatrick Elementary School, North Heights Junior High School, and Arkansas High School. Though baking is something Lofton has always been passionate about, she was not known for that growing up in Texarkana. Oh! The places you’ll go! You’ll be on your way up! You’ll be seeing great sights! You’ll join the highfliers who soar to high heights. ” —Dr. Seuss

BY TERRI GRAVITT

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

She was, however, known for singing around town at local churches and events. “The love of baking,” she shared, “was only a hobby I did in my spare time.” When she was 28, Lofton left Texarkana and moved to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, but even now, she reminisces fondly, “Texarkana will always be my home, my foundation. The people, the town charm. I have enough memories to last a lifetime.” After moving, she became laser-focused on her

along behind me and make my hometown of Texarkana proud,” she said. “Creativity for designing the cakes came pretty naturally, as I am a visual artist and have always sold drawings, paintings, and pottery sculptures. As a matter of fact,” she continued, “there is a pottery piece the [Texarkana] Arkansas School District purchased from me my senior year of high school that is still on display.”

When the pandemic hit in 2020, everything began shutting down, and no one was gathering for events. Lofton’s sales were basically gone, and she feared she would have to close her doors. Gathering all the grit and determination within her, she created what she called “tissue paper cakes.” These cakes, intended to be a fun and humorous way to distract and navigate through a very trying time, exploded locally in Fort Worth and made the National Broadcasting Center’s local news. This led to her cakes being picked up by the national news and the Today Show , where they did a brief segment about them. From April to August 2020, Lofton sold cakes to people

future and what she believes is her true purpose. “What could I do with my life that would be fulfilling while bringing joy and inspiration to others?” she wondered. It was then she got serious about her passion and started attending culinary school, aspiring to one day own her own bakery. She enrolled at Le Cordon Bleu Dallas. Eagerly, even before starting school, Lofton began working and planning for her future bakery. She wanted to name it Loft 22 Cakes; Loft would be for her last name and the 22 for her birthday on September 22, which she calls her “purpose day.” She believes wholeheartedly that Loft 22 is her purpose. “Loft 22 is me doing what I was born to do,” she humbly shared. Opening her own business

all over the country. This stroke of luck truly sustained her through those scary times and was indeed an answer to her prayers.

“Over the years of owning Loft 22, I have relied on my faith and God-given gifts to take business to new levels,” Lofton said. She has been a part of many amazing opportunities, including being chosen to be part of the Dr. Seuss Baking Challenge on Amazon Prime Video. She was sent an email about the show, and after some thought, she applied. The producers of the show

came with challenges. It was a long road to open a storefront, but after years of “practice, prayers, butter, sweat, and tears,” in February 2017, Lofton opened the doors of Loft 22 Cakes, her own premier bakery. “I wanted to inspire the generations coming

reached out to her after being intrigued

photo courtesy of Tareka Lofton

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

Texarkana native, Tareka Lofton (right), competed in the Dr. Seuss Baking Challenge on Amazon Prime Video.

Coming from a small town like Texarkana to being on Amazon Prime Video with the world watching was the opportunity of a lifetime. ”

—Tareka Lofton

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

by her unique, artsy, and edgy cake designs showcased through her Instagram content. After they interviewed her, they quickly fell in love with her genuine, down-to- earth, friendly, and bubbly personality, and Amazon Prime Video selected her for the show. “It was an exciting yet overwhelming experience that I will never forget. Coming from a small town like Texarkana to being on Amazon Prime Video with the world watching was the opportunity of a lifetime.” Since then, many more doors have opened, and incredible opportunities have continued to come. Disney’s Broadway headquarters from New York called recently and asked Lofton to provide sweets for the almost 200 cast members of the musical The Lion King’s production crew during their final show in Fort Worth. Her yummy cupcakes, cookies with Lion King symbols, and delicious banana pudding cups were an enormous hit! “Disney has intentionally supported minority-owned businesses as they travel, and we love them all the more for it,” she said. Even though Tareka Lofton is still determining what the future holds for Loft 22, she works tirelessly to continue her success. Her proven track record suggests her hard work will continue to result in tremendous accomplishments and there is much to look forward to on the horizon. Her focus on making others happy through her work reveals her true nature and boosts her ability to appeal to customers. She enthusiastically shared, “I just love to be a part of creating special memories for people in my community… whether it’s a wedding, whether it’s a birthday… we will make a cake for that. Everything

pairs well with cake! I want to give back to my community!” From the outside looking in, it’s safe to say that Lofton is soaring to new heights, and she is definitely making her hometown proud!

Read more about Tareka in “TXK Roots” on page 66.

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

TEXARKANA MAGAZINE

Club/Compeve Organizaons Club/Compeve Organizaons Club/Compeve Organizaons Club/Compeve Organizaons

With the hazy days of winter behind us, the warm sunshine of spring inspires us to get outside and be acve. For many children, staying acve is a year-round lifestyle—both inside and outside of school. Whether it’s soball, volleyball, soccer, dance, or lifestyle—both inside and outside of school. Whether it’s soball, volleyball, soccer, dance, or lifestyle—both inside and outside of school. Whether it’s soball, volleyball, soccer, dance, or lifestyle—both inside and outside of school. Whether it’s soball, volleyball, soccer, dance, or baseball, youth across America are parcipang in sports that require a great deal of dedicaon. baseball, youth across America are parcipang in sports that require a great deal of dedicaon. baseball, youth across America are parcipang in sports that require a great deal of dedicaon. baseball, youth across America are parcipang in sports that require a great deal of dedicaon. With the hazy days of winter behind us, the warm sunshine of spring inspires us to get outside and be acve. For many children, staying acve is a year-round With the hazy days of winter behind us, the warm sunshine of spring inspires us to get outside and be acve. For many children, staying acve is a year-round With the hazy days of winter behind us, the warm sunshine of spring inspires us to get outside and be acve. For many children, staying acve is a year-round

Locally, organizaons such as Scks Baseball, Northeast Texas Junior Volleyball Club, and Red Door Dance Academy travel throughout the year to put their skills to the test against kids from across the naon. Compeve select/club sports programs are different because they require addional commitment from both the athlete and the parents. So, why do it? Local parents reported they allowed their children this opportunity for two main reasons... 1. Love of the sport. 2. The opportunies the sport provides the child on a psychosocial level— how to be a good teammate, responsibility, hard work, and delayed graficaon. 1. Love of the sport. 2. The opportunies the sport provides the child on a psychosocial level— how to be a good teammate, responsibility, hard work, and delayed graficaon. 1. Love of the sport. 2. The opportunies the sport provides the child on a psychosocial level— how to be a good teammate, responsibility, hard work, and delayed graficaon. 1. Love of the sport. 2. The opportunies the sport provides the child on a psychosocial level— how to be a good teammate, responsibility, hard work, and delayed graficaon. While the pursuit of college athlecs may be the goal for some, providing their athlete with a hobby that challenges them and encourages them to be beer is the overall reasoning behind their “why?” “Club sports can be a crucial part of a child’s development that helps to While the pursuit of college athlecs may be the goal for some, providing their athlete with a hobby that challenges them and encourages them to be beer is the overall reasoning behind their “why?” “Club sports can be a crucial part of a child’s development that helps to While the pursuit of college athlecs may be the goal for some, providing their athlete with a hobby that challenges them and encourages them to be beer is the overall reasoning behind their “why?” “Club sports can be a crucial part of a child’s development that helps to While the pursuit of college athlecs may be the goal for some, providing their athlete with a hobby that challenges them and encourages them to be beer is the overall reasoning behind their “why?” “Club sports can be a crucial part of a child’s development that helps to Locally, organizaons such as Scks Baseball, Northeast Texas Junior Volleyball Club, and Red Door Dance Academy travel throughout the year to put their skills to the test against kids from across the naon. Compeve select/club sports programs are different because they require addional commitment from both the athlete and the parents. So, why do it? Local parents reported they allowed their children this opportunity for two main reasons... Locally, organizaons such as Scks Baseball, Northeast Texas Junior Volleyball Club, and Red Door Dance Academy travel throughout the year to put their skills to the test against kids from across the naon. Compeve select/club sports programs are different because they require addional commitment from both the athlete and the parents. So, why do it? Local parents reported they allowed their children this opportunity for two main reasons... Locally, organizaons such as Scks Baseball, Northeast Texas Junior Volleyball Club, and Red Door Dance Academy travel throughout the year to put their skills to the test against kids from across the naon. Compeve select/club sports programs are different because they require addional commitment from both the athlete and the parents. So, why do it? Local parents reported they allowed their children this opportunity for two main reasons...

A FOCUS ON YOUTH SPORTS BY HILLARY CLOUD

prepare them for life outside of sport. The development of social skills, teamwork, problem solving, leadership, work ethic, and me management are just a few examples of what club sports offer players outside of the actual sport itself.” Tim Grove, Masters in Coaching and Athlec Administraon and Director of Coaching at Texarkana Soccer. Costs Challenges prepare them for life outside of sport. The development of social skills, teamwork, problem solving, leadership, work ethic, and me management are just a few examples of what club sports offer players outside of the actual sport itself.” Tim Grove, Masters in Coaching and Athlec Administraon and Director of Coaching at Texarkana Soccer. Costs Challenges prepare them for life outside of sport. The development of social skills, teamwork, problem solving, leadership, work ethic, and me management are just a few examples of what club sports offer players outside of the actual sport itself.” Tim Grove, Masters in Coaching and Athlec Administraon and Director of Coaching at Texarkana Soccer. Costs Challenges prepare them for life outside of sport. The development of social skills, teamwork, problem solving, leadership, work ethic, and me management are just a few examples of what club sports offer players outside of the actual sport itself.” Tim Grove, Masters in Coaching and Athlec Administraon and Director of Coaching at Texarkana Soccer. Costs Challenges

Parcipaon Facts Parcipaon Facts Parcipaon Facts Parcipaon Facts

3.7 HOURS 11.8 HOURS Children ages 6-18 spend an average of per week compeng in compeve sports in pracce = + 8.1 HOURS 11.8 HOURS Children ages 6-18 spend an average of per week compeng in compeve sports in pracce = + 11.8 HOURS Children ages 6-18 spend an average of per week compeng in compeve sports in pracce = + 3.7 HOURS + 3.7 HOURS 8.1 HOURS = 3.7 HOURS 8.1 HOURS HOURS per week Children ages 6-18 spend an average of compeng in compeve sports in pracce 8.1 HOURS

45.7% of Texas children age 6-17 parcipate in aer-school and/or weekend sports 45.7% of Texas children age 6-17 parcipate in aer-school and/or weekend sports

Many factors go into playing select sports beyond a child’s ability to compete. Finances and me available may be determining factors in being able to parcipate. Aside from finances, some parents feel that it may be too early to hone in on one sport—these are the ages to allow them to try many things and figure out which one they love. ● Travel is now the most expensive part of youth sports (whether or not your team actually travels). Parents making at least $ 150,000 spend 83% more on travel for their child’s sport. $ In 2022, those involved in youth sports spent an average of $ 883 on one primary sport per season, per child. ● According to State of Play , parents in the wealthiest households spent 4x more on sports than the lowest-income families. ● According to State of Play , parents in the wealthiest households spent 4x more on sports than the lowest-income families. ● According to State of Play , parents in the wealthiest households spent 4x more on sports than the lowest-income families. ● According to State of Play , parents in the wealthiest households spent 4x more on sports than the lowest-income families. In 2022, those involved in youth sports spent an average of $ 883 on one primary sport per season, per child. In 2022, those involved in youth sports spent an average of $ 883 on one primary sport per season, per child. In 2022, those involved in youth sports spent an average of $ 883 on one primary sport per season, per child. ● Travel is now the most expensive part of youth sports (whether or not your team actually travels). Parents making at least $ 150,000 spend 83% more on travel for their child’s sport. ● Travel is now the most expensive part of youth sports (whether or not your team actually travels). Parents making at least $ 150,000 spend 83% more on travel for their child’s sport. ● Travel is now the most expensive part of youth sports (whether or not your team actually travels). Parents making at least $ 150,000 spend 83% more on travel for their child’s sport.

● As of 2019, the average child spends less than 3 years playing a sport, qui¢ng by age 11. ● As of 2019, the average child spends less than 3 years playing a sport, qui¢ng by age 11. ● As of 2019, the average child spends less than 3 years playing a sport, qui¢ng by age 11. ● As of 2019, the average child spends less than 3 years playing a sport, qui¢ng by age 11.

● One third of parents say it is a challenge to get their child to exercise. ● One third of parents say it is a challenge to get their child to exercise.

Benefits

● According to a Gallup poll, children ages 2-10 spend significantly less me in free play than on screens (18-21 hours/week). ● According to a Gallup poll, children ages 2-10 spend significantly less me in free play than on screens (18-21 hours/week). ● According to a Gallup poll, children ages 2-10 spend significantly less me in free play than on screens (18-21 hours/week). ● According to a Gallup poll, children ages 2-10 spend significantly less me in free play than on screens (18-21 hours/week).

Experience lower levels of depression

Earn 7-8% more money in their career

Benefits of an Acve Childhood According to aspenprojectplay.org

15% more likely to a end college

Score 40% higher on tests

● By age nine, physical acvity rates begin to drop. This is the age when children develop a self-concept of whether or not they are an athlete. ● By age nine, physical acvity rates begin to drop. This is the age when children develop a self-concept of whether or not they are an athlete. ● By age nine, physical acvity rates begin to drop. This is the age when children develop a self-concept of whether or not they are an athlete. ● By age nine, physical acvity rates begin to drop. This is the age when children develop a self-concept of whether or not they are an athlete.

Local Costs (Local poll to parents whose children play club sports) Annual cost of “extras” such as hotel stays, equipment, addional training—on average families spend $ 2,600 annually, ranging from $ 250 per tournament to $ 7,000 per year. hotel stays, equipment, addional training—on average families spend $ 2,600 annually, ranging from $ 250 per tournament to $ 7,000 per year. Local Costs (Local poll to parents whose children play club sports) Annual cost of “extras” such as Local annual cost of sport or facility paid directly to the sports organizaon/club— $ 3,000 on average, ranging from $ 190 to $ 5,000.

Local Costs (Local poll to parents whose children play club sports) Annual cost of “extras” such as hotel stays, equipment, addional training—on average families spend $ 2,600 annually, ranging from $ 250 per tournament to $ 7,000 per year. Local Costs (Local poll to parents whose children play club sports) Annual cost of “extras” such as hotel stays, equipment, addional training—on average families spend $ 2,600 annually, ranging from $ 250 per tournament to $ 7,000 per year.

Average Cost Per Sport, Per Season $ 1,188 $ 1,002 $ 714

Have a higher self-esteem

● By age 15, moderate-to-vigorous physical acvity declines 75%. ● By age 15, moderate-to-vigorous physical acvity declines 75%. ● By age 15, moderate-to-vigorous physical acvity declines 75%. ● By age 15, moderate-to-vigorous physical acvity declines 75%.

18% 3% 18% 3%

18% 3%

$ 581

Possess higher property values

Higher than average air quality index rangs

Decreased unemployment

Decreased unemployment rates from 2015-2019 rates from 2015-2019 rates from 2015-2019

Decreased unemployment

Decreased unemployment rates from 2015-2019

Local annual cost of sport or facility paid directly to the sports organizaon/club— $ 3,000 on average, ranging from $ 190 to $ 5,000. Local annual cost of sport or facility paid directly to the sports organizaon/club— $ 3,000 on average, ranging from $ 190 to $ 5,000. Local annual cost of sport or facility paid directly to the sports organizaon/club— $ 3,000 on average, ranging from $ 190 to $ 5,000.

lower rate of heart disease

lower rate of high blood pressure

Sources: hps://www.aspenprojectplay.org/youth-sports/facts hps://www.childhealthdata.org/browse/survey/results?q=8071&r=1& =45 Local poll via Facebook by Hillary Cloud Sources: hps://www.aspenprojectplay.org/youth-sports/facts hps://www.childhealthdata.org/browse/survey/results?q=8071&r=1& =45 Local poll via Facebook by Hillary Cloud Sources: hps://www.aspenprojectplay.org/youth-sports/facts hps://www.childhealthdata.org/browse/survey/results?q=8071&r=1& =45 Local poll via Facebook by Hillary Cloud Sources: hps://www.aspenprojectplay.org/youth-sports/facts hps://www.childhealthdata.org/browse/survey/results?q=8071&r=1& =45 Local poll via Facebook by Hillary Cloud

Benefits Extend Into Adulthood

SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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