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
32
COMMUNITY & CULTURE
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