Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce Community Directory
TEXARKANA USA REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE COMMUNITY DIRECTORY
FALL 2022
MADE IN
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TEXARKANA USA REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE COMMUNITY DIRECTORY CONTENTS
819 NORTH STATE LINE AVENUE TEXARKANA, TEXAS 75501 903-792-7191 TEXARKANA.ORG
CHAMBER STAFF
FEATURES 10 ONLY IN TXK 22 CENTRALLY LOCATED 32 EDUCATION IN TXK 46 HEALTHCARE HUB 52 YOUR CHAMBER
Denis Washington Interim President and CEO
Natalie Haywood Director of Events and Communications
Robbin Bass Director of Business Retention and Expansion Amber Adams Director of Partner Development Camille Powell Program Manager - Workforce Development
Since being established in 1905, the Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce has been a partnership of businesses, organizations and professionals working together to build a healthy economy and improve the quality of life in the community. To accomplish these goals we are active in many roles including economic developer, community planner, tourism hospitality resource, business spokesperson, economic counselor, government relations The Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce is run by its members. Members elect a board of directors who determines policies and sets goals. The 2022 Chairman of the Board, Stephen A. Mayo, is the chief elected officer who presides over all board meetings. The chamber’s day-to- day operations are handled by the Interim President, Denis Washington, who employs a team of professionals who assist the Board of Directors in accomplishing its goals. Contact us for more information about the opportunities and benefits of Chamber specialist, human resources adviser, and public relations practitioner.
membership at texarkana.org.
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TEXARKANA USA REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE COMMUNITY DIRECTORY CONTENTS
819 NORTH STATE LINE AVENUE TEXARKANA, TEXAS 75501 903-792-7191 TEXARKANA.ORG
RESOURCES
PUBLISHED BY Cardinal Publishing, LLC.
8
Welcome
PROJECT MANAGEMENT BY
16 Famously Texarkana
903-949-1460 • www.txkmag.com
CONTRIBUTORS Shelby Akin Bryant Allen Burns Barr John Bunch Lindsey Clark Matt Cornelius Kyle DeLaughter
18 A Sight to See
54 Chamber Benefits
Britt Earnest Eric Ethridge Kara Humphrey Rodney Love Cassy Meisenheimer Leah Orr Sophie Stone
56 Chamber Programs and Events
59 Chamber Ambassadors
Beyond the Line , the Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce Community Directory, is published twice yearly by Cardinal Publishing, LLC. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited. Information in this directory is gathered from various sources and every effort has been made to ensure accuracy. The publisher assumes no responsibility for omissions, errors or misinformation. Please contact the Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce with any additions or corrections. ON THE COVER Experience the joy of homemade s’mores anytime, anywhere with Sterno’s S’mores Maker. This product is made in TXK and brings fun (for all ages) to desserts, parties, camping, and picnics all year round, indoors and outdoors.
62 Palmer Award Recipients
64 Member Directory
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W E L C O M E
A WORD FROM TEXARKANA’S LEADERS
This is an exciting time to be in the Texarkana region. The Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce witnessed its members rebound from the challenges of the pandemic. Our resilience has been longstanding for decades, which is evident in how we continue to dodge recessionary fears. Some members have experienced record-breaking performances. Economic development partners have aggressively marketed our region, including the expansion/relocation of our existing businesses to meet their growing demand for their product. How best can this be served than by a willing and able workforce. Our members have a thirst for more skilled workers, and it is our mission to increase the pool of available resources by leveraging our partnerships. We are developing the pipeline for the region. Our staff and partners in workforce training, colleges, and high schools are stepping up to identify, counsel, and instruct our future workforce, while making available a path forward for displaced workers too. Downtown Texarkana has seen a resurgence in business activity, housing developments, art galleries, theatre, and events that once popularized this area. Noticed is the increased investment directed to redevelop properties that have been and will attract patrons and visitors. We like to think of downtown as a destination and encourage our residents and visitors to take some time to see this transformation. Come visit our arts and historic district and the designated entertainment districts.
It is my pleasure to serve as the Chair of your 2022 Texarkana USA Chamber Board of Directors. Our role and responsibility is to be a business partner by leading and advocating for sustainable economic growth and prosperity for our region. We are actively engaged in supporting our businesses. Our Chamber team is here to assist in achieving our goals. I encourage you to participate in addressing our goals and participating with the many available opportunities. Of course, our main goal is your success. We will focus on expanding our outreach and engagement of your Chamber with our businesses, communities ,and citizens. We will champion supporting collaborations and strengthen our networking and educational programs. Your Chamber will continue to reinforce our regional partnership for the expansion and retention of businesses by strengthening our workforce and making training opportunities available. By providing an active marketing program for our business community, we will create unity in our messaging to stakeholders, community members and tourists. The Chamber is embarking on a Total Resource campaign to assist in Chamber growth. The Chamber will continue to provide advocacy opportunities to foster the engagement of members, businesses, and residents of the Texarkana region in our governmental affairs program. Through this program we will continue to provide information and opportunities relevant and necessary for our businesses. The Chamber works daily to serve its members and the surrounding communities. We see each task as an opportunity
to bring value and service to you and your community. Our duties are never done at the Chamber. We look forward to serving you and accomplishing the goals we have set forth.
Denis R. Washington Interim President/CEO
Stephen A. Mayo Chair, Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
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PHOTOS BY BURNS BARR, MATT CORNELIUS, ERIC ETHRIDGE, RODNEY LOVE
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ONLY
TXK IN
balance, along with our convenient location situated at the junction of several interstate highways, that draws people to this area and provides the safety and security of home-sweet-home. Do not let the state line fool you. Though Texarkana operates as two separately functioning cities, the divide is only geographical. There is a longstanding tradition of cooperation and collaboration that unites the people and continues to build a firm foundation for the future of Texarkana. First settled in 1873, Texarkana made its start as a railroad town. Since that time, the city has grown into a place with as much diversity in business as is represented by more than 149,000 residents across the Texarkana Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). Bowie County, Texas and Miller County, Arkansas, which comprise the MSA, offer a wide variety of attractions, recreational opportunities, parks, entertainment, food, shopping, and fun for everyone!
There is no other
place like Texarkana. It is all the
beauty of Arkansas and the hospitality of Texas rolled into a perfect Twin Cities package. Only in TXK will you find a diverse community of friendly people, a low cost of living, a flourishing job market, affordable housing, beautiful parks, and first-class educational choices on both sides of the state line. Texarkana was voted Nicest Place to Live in Texas and Arkansas by Reader’s Digest, who picks one place from each state that “exemplifies kindness and civility in a time of American divisiveness.” Only TXK offers the perfect balance of small-town community living with the excitement of burgeoning opportunity and development. It is that
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ONLY IN TXK
Locally owned businesses are the cornerstone of Texarkana. Our unique character has been built by the businesses operating in our city. As members of our community, Texarkana’s local business owners share the values and needs of their friends and neighbors and are committed to meeting those needs with friendly, hometown customer service. TXK is home to many quality local businesses and restaurants, stimulating our economy and supporting our residents.
CUISINE The local restaurants in Texarkana spoil their customers with fresh, cutting-edge options to please any pallet. From French-inspired luxury cuisine to award-winning barbeque, visitors and locals enjoy a wide variety of options located all over the Texarkana area. Looking to grab a quick and delicious hamburger? Stop in at Flying Burger & Seafood on Summerhill Road, Old Tyme Burger Shoppe on Jefferson Avenue, or The Dugout Burgers & More in Genoa. Grabbing lunch with a friend? Julie’s Deli is a longtime Texarkana staple offering inside seating, curb-side takeout, and some of the finest catering in town. If it is Tex-Mex you are craving, you will find locals at Loca Luna, TaMolly’s, or Amigo Juan enjoying a cold margarita. Fancy date night on the calendar? Make sure to get reservations at Verona Restaurant in Texarkana’s downtown entertainment district, Benchmark Brasserie in Nash, or Twisted Fork Restaurant conveniently located off of Summerhill Road. Only in TXK will you find restaurant owners, managers, and staff that treat every customer like family. Patrons enjoy a small community with an appreciation for culinary success, and community members proudly support their Texarkana restaurants. Make sure to view the directory on page 77 for more restaurant recommendations. SHOP While maintaining their own identities, local boutiques around town provide exceptional quality and personalized customer service. Whether it’s Merchant House Interiors, Fan Fare Gifts, or Four States Furniture, Texarkana prides itself on a unique shopping experience for any age or style. Visit Summerhill Square and you will find today’s trends for all ages. Downtown Texarkana offers antiques, womens’ shopping, and beautiful second-hand furniture. Central Mall, conveniently located off of I-30, holds two department stores, an arcade, and shopping for the entire family. Check out the directory starting on page 65 for more options to shop local.
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ENTERTAINMENT WORTH THE DRIVE
Texarkana offers a variety of entertainment and recreational opportunities including a 14-screen Cinemark Movie Theater, trampoline park, golf courses, and murals downtown. You can also enjoy the fishing, walking trails, and playgrounds of Bringle Lake Park. Holiday Springs Water Park features a lazy river, water slides, a wave pool and much more. Another attraction of Texarkana is the beautiful Spring Lake Park. At the center of the 145-acre landscape is a spring- fed lake surrounded by open green spaces, playgrounds, walking trails, a disc golf course, and covered picnic areas. It is the perfect place to spend a Texarkana weekend. Also in the park is Swanger Sports Complex, which hosts Texarkana Dixie Baseball, and Dobson Field, home of The Texas A&M– Texarkana Eagles. On a hot summer day, the park’s Rotary Splash Pad provides cooling relief with its 18 water structures. There is even a place for man’s best friend to enjoy a safe and secure outdoor location to run and play in the Kylee Sullivan Pet Safe Dog Park. Whether it is fishing in the lake or watching Movies in the Park, Spring Lake Park is the perfect outdoor retreat. You find even more opportunities traveling around town including locations for a day of golf and plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy year-round. New Haven Golf Club, Oak Grove Golf Club, Northridge Country Club, and Texarkana Country Club all offer beautiful options for the most enthusiastic golfer. All around town, golfers can take their pick between a variety of courses. Finally, Texarkana offers great choices for the sportsman and hunter of the family. The fishing at Millwood Lake and Lake Wright Patman cannot be beat. These lakes are perfect for hiking, camping, and swimming as well. A day at the lake is always a good day and Texarkana has several beautiful options to choose from. From Texarkana’s inception, the downtown area has been at its heart. Driven by the arts, downtown is alive with the murals of local artists. Downtown holds two entertainment districts, and the energy can be felt once a month at Downtown Live hosted by Main Street Texarkana where local artists and downtown restaurants host a night dedicated to the culture that can only be found in TXK. Downtown Texarkana is also home to four museums, the Texarkana Regional Arts Center and historical buildings that tell the story of Texarkana’s past. Fully restored in 1979, the beautiful and historic Perot Theatre plays host to a variety of spectacular concerts and theatre productions including Texarkana Community Ballet’s The Nutcracker. It is also the home of The Texarkana Symphony Orchestra, which enhances and richly expands Texarkana’s musical culture.
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FAMOUSLY
TEXARKANA
“I love telling people where I’m from. The water tower on the way into town says it all—‘Texarkana is Twice as Nice!’ I loved growing up there and I love when I’m headed back home for a visit.” David Crowder “It’s a great small town and I was blessed to grow up in a place with a strong sense of community—where people genuinely cared about one another and helped each other.” Sarah Huckabee Sanders TXK Roots— Texarkana Magazine
SONGS THAT MENTION TXK “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” George Strait
“Texas” The Charlie Daniels Band
“Texas Swing” Clay Walker
“Baton Rouge” Guy Clark
“Wanted Man - Take 1” Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash
“Call It What You Want” Tesla
“Way Down” Tim McGraw, Shy Carter
“Cotton Fields” Creedence Clearwater Revival
“Cotton Fields” Elton John
MOVIES THAT MENTION TXK 2 Fast 2 Furious A Perfect World American Psycho Elvis Norwood One False Move Return to Boggy Creek Smokey and The Bandit The Legend of Boggy Creek The Town that Dreaded Sundown The Town That Dreaded Sundown 2014 Vacation Walk The Line Zombieland
“East Bound and Down” Jerry Reed
“I’ve Been Everywhere” Johnny Cash
“Let’s Jump The Broomstick” Brenda Lee
“No Place Like You” Maddie and Tae
“Ride” Trace Adkins
“Southern Hallelujah” Trace Adkins
“Texarkana” R.E.M.
“(Texarkana was) a good place to grow up. It was a small town, but big enough to ‘spread your wings’ a little.” Collin Raye TXK Roots— Texarkana Magazine
“Texarkana Baby” Eddy Arnold
“It was a great town to grow
up in as a young kid because the pace of life was slow, and I was surrounded by so much love from my grandparents and family.” Dr. Otis Willaims TXK Roots— Texarkana Magazine
“I am just grateful that I had such a fun childhood in Texarkana. It’s the little things… I don’t take that for granted.” Molly C. Quinn TXK Roots— Texarkana Magazine
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a meaningful educational experience for its visitors and those who use it as a resource.
of women banded together to honor their loyalty, their service and their devotion.
Kidtopia and Skatetopia Park 201 Oak Street • Texarkana, Texas
Kidtopia Park is a wooden playground designed by kids for kids. It features some of Texarkana’s most famous landmarks, just twice the fun of the real things! Skatetopia Park is adjacent to Kidtopia. Built completely from custom concrete, this park is made for users of all skill levels.
Texarkana Public Library 600 West 3rd Street • Texarkana, Texas The library has over 100,000 materials available for check-out that include books, compact discs, videos, DVDs, digital audio books, magazines and downloadable audio books. In addition to these items, thousands of people enter the library to utilize print and electronic reference resources, access the Internet, checkout a laptop in house, enjoy free Wi-Fi service, make copies, send a fax, participate in computer and Internet training or attend one of the Library’s events. Ace of Clubs House 420 Pine Street • Texarkana, Texas A living museum, the 22-sided house was built with the winnings from a poker game. Legend has it that James H. Draughon’s winning card was the ace of clubs. Architecturally unique, the Italianate Victorian home is most notable for its three octagonal wings and one rectangular wing that join to form the distinct shape of a “club.” P.J. Ahern House 403 Laurel Street • Texarkana, Arkansas Placed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Classical Revival style home was built in 1906 by P.J. Ahern and serves as museum and event venue. Scott Joplin Mural Third & Main Streets • Texarkana, Texas A mural honoring Texarkana’s most famous son, Ragtime composer Scott Joplin.
PHOTOS BY BRYANT ALLEN, BURNS BARR, JOHN BUNCH, LINDSEY CLARK, MATT CORNELIUS
Museum of Regional History 219 North State Line Avenue • Texarkana, Texas Housed in the city’s oldest brick building, it serves as the Texarkana Arts and Historic District Visitor’s Center, welcoming you with information on locations and events in downtown Texarkana that you do not want to miss on your visit.
DOWNTOWN
Photographer’s Island 500 North State Line Avenue • Texarkana, USA The United States Post Office and Courthouse, also known as Texarkana U.S. Post Office and Federal Building is located on State Line Avenue in Texarkana, straddling the border between Arkansas and Texas. The Post Office is so unique that it has been noted to be the 2nd most photographed Post Office in the United States!
Texarkana Regional Arts Center (TRAHC) 321 West 4th Street • Texarkana, Texas The beautifully renovated Regional Arts Center began life in 1909 as a United States District Courthouse. The old courtroom is now a grand hall with a 26-foot-high ceiling. National touring art exhibitions grace gallery walls 12 months a year, and the halls ring out when the rolls are playing on the unique reproducing player piano. The Center also features “For Arts Sake” Gift Shop filled with unique gifts. It’s not to be missed. TRAHC ArtSpark and Art Wall 4th Street between Texas Boulevard and Main Street • Texarkana, Texas A relaxing green space with revolving events and art displays. Perot Theatre 219 Main Street • Texarkana, Texas A jewel of the region, bringing the best of Broadway, classical music, ballet, jazz, modern dance and more to Texarkana. First opened in 1924 as the Saenger Theatre, Emil Weil’s Italian Renaissance design is an architectural marvel. Throughout the year, the Perot Theatre Series brings national and international productions to the region and tours are available year-round. World War I Memorial Sheppard Park • 6th and Olive Streets • Texarkana, Texas A memorial to the men from Bowie County, Texas and Miller County, Arkansas, who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of their country in the World War 1917-1918. Erected by the Texarkana Memorial Unit, an organization
Kress Gap Murals 116 West Broad Street • Texarkana, Texas What was formerly the Kress Department Store, has now become charming and colorful murals, bringing life to the abandoned space. Union Station 101 Front Street • Texarkana, Arkansas Union Station sits diagonally on the Arkansas- Texas state line. The building is the current home to Amtrak. Drive by and see this historic treasure.
1894 Gallery 105 Olive Street • Texarkana, Arkansas Located inside the historic 1894 City Market. It’s the place for local and regional art. The historic setting and the floating walls of art makes this truly a must- see for art lovers and architectural appreciation. Four States Auto Museum 217 Laurel Street • Texarkana, Arkansas Automobile museum that exhibits, restores and operates appropriate pieces of automotive equipment and displays static exhibits which provide educational and recreational experiences. Through programs, lectures, publications, research library and special events, the museum augments its efforts to provide
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a bike/walk trail that begins at Bringle Lake East and runs to the Waterworks Spillway. There is also a single mountain bike trail that twists throughout the wilderness area. AROUND TOWN
resting place for several of Texarkana’s pioneers, forebears and veterans dating back to the Civil War. One of the most arresting WWI statues in Texas is a four-figured marble memorial for Corporal Otis Henry. A generic statue of a soldier throwing a grenade stands above a statue of the civilian Otis Henry flanked by two angels. Texarkana Historical Tour 819 North State Line Avenue • Texarkana, Texas See Texarkana in a brand new light with the Texarkana Historical Tour, a short, self-guided audio tour that showcases the character of the Texarkana community. Start at the Chamber of Commerce on State Line Avenue with your map and your audio guide. Slip back in time as you learn fun facts, bits of history and begin to see the city as architects, historians and artists do, as you tour in and around downtown Perot Leadership Museum 1024 Tucker Street • Texarkana, Texas The permanent exhibit is a composite replica of Gabriel Ross Perot’s cotton office, which a young H. Ross Perot helped his father build. Learn about the art of cotton buying and check out artifacts from a bygone era in this permanent exhibition.
Front Street Caboose Front Street Festival Plaza • Wood and Broad Streets • Texarkana, Arkansas This nifty old fifty-ton caboose was donated by Union Pacific Railroad to Texarkana in 2015. The 1979 Southern Pacific caboose was restored and placed in Front Street Plaza to serve as a symbol and celebration of Texarkana’s relationship with the railroad. Arkansas Municipal Auditorium East 3rd and Walnut Street • Texarkana, Arkansas Built in the 1920s, the Texarkana Municipal Auditorium saw its heyday in the mid-twentieth century. Visit the Municipal Auditorium to hear more about the architecture and the history of the building. Walk of Fame Park 416 East 3rd Street • Texarkana, Arkansas The Walk of Fame Park was built by the Arkansas Municipal Auditorium Commission to honor the people that performed on the stage in the Historic Arkansas Municipal Auditorium (AMA) since its opening in 1930. The AMA was one of the stops of many music legends that include Elvis, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jim Ed Brown. Discovery Place Children’s Museum 215 Pine Street • Texarkana, Texas The area’s best hands-on children’s museum has a one-of-a-kind 12 foot sound wall, giant prehistoric animal murals and a living science lab. A special dress-up theatre and tot spot for the younger ones make this an attraction for the entire family. MIDTOWN Spring Lake Park 4303 North Park Road • Texarkana, Texas The heart and pride of the Texarkana, Texas park system. This 145-acre park features a spring fed lake, open green spaces with picnic areas, playground units, fishing piers and an 18-hole disc golf course. The 1.75 mile Phillip McDougal Walking/ Biking Trail strolls throughout the entire park and is a favorite spot for the recreational or avid jogger. James Bowie Centennial Statue 800 State Line Avenue • Texarkana, Texas One of the 14 statues erected for the 1936 Texas Centennial celebration, this larger-than- life bronze was designed by sculptor William M. McVey with W.W. Watkins providing the design for the Marble Falls granite base. The Otis Henry Memorial at Rose Hill Cemetery 100 South Lelia Street • Texarkana, Texas One of the oldest cemeteries in Texarkana. Founded as “city cemetery” in 1874, the Rose Hill cemetery and memorial lawn is the final
Four States Fair Ag Learning Center 3700 East 50th Street • Texarkana, Arkansas This is your only chance to visit the home of Miss Moo. The Four States Fair, in partnership with the Arkansas Beef Council, promotes dairy education and agricultural awareness in children. The center is the first of its kind in Arkansas and in the four states region.
Majestic Magnolia 4700 County Avenue • Texarkana, Arkansas The largest magnolia tree in Arkansas is estimated to be 185 years old. The tree is 16 feet, 7 inches in diameter, 61 feet tall and has an 82-foot wing span. Certified Arkansas’ largest Magnolia by the Arkansas Forestry Commission. UPTOWN Bringle Lake Art Park Located along Bringle Lake Wilderness Trail 7500 Bringle Lake Road • Texarkana, Texas Tucked away along the Bringle Lake Wilderness Trail near the Waterworks Spillway is home to walls of murals and a pathway of colorful sidewalks painted by locals. This spot is popular for recreational activities and located mid-way through the trail system.
George Tobolowsky Sculpture Texas A&M University-Texarkana • Texarkana, Texas
Tobolowsky creates steel and stainless steel sculptures by welding together unique objects, such as scrap metal and industrial parts. Lake Wright Patman Off U.S. Highway 59 South Activities include camping, picnicking, fishing (Catfish, Crappie, Perch, Bass), hiking, boating, canoeing, swimming and bird watching. Legendary Firearm’s Indoor Gun Range 101 Slaton Drive • Nash, Texas Indoor gun range in the Texarkana area, located just west of Nash on Highway 82 offering four lanes at 25 yards, all indoors and climate-controlled. With a classroom for safety, LTC and NRA training. Millwood Lake U.S. Highway 71 North to Ashdown, Arkansas This is the place for serious bass fishing. A series of boat lanes meanders through submerged timber, marshes and oxbow cutoffs making it an outstanding fishing destination. This 29,260-acre lake abounds in largemouth bass, catfish and crappie. Birding is also popular at this Audubon- designated Important Bird Area with sightings of over 300 of Arkansas’ 400 species on record.
Bringle Lake Wilderness Area 7500 Bringle Lake Road • Texarkana, Texas Has approximately 144 acres that has been set aside as a nature area. This area also includes
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CENTRALLY LOCATED
A LITTLE FURTHER…
Quality of life is determined by more than great places to eat and entertainment options. It also depends on the economy, business opportunities, housing, cost of living, and transportation of a city. Easily accessed and perfectly situated between Dallas and Little Rock, along Interstate 30, the twin cities of Texarkana, Arkansas and Texarkana, Texas, have always been a central source of metropolitan conveniences, commerce, and transport to the surrounding region. DRIVING DISTANCES FROM TXK With the urban cities of Dallas, Texas 167 miles west, Little Rock, Arkansas only 140 miles east, and Shreveport, Louisiana 72 miles south, Texarkana is a gateway for trade and is accessed conveniently through a nexus of highways, railways, trucking lines, freight carriers, bus lines, and airports. The twin cities cover 70 square miles and are key players in the commerce of the region.
NEW ORLEANS 390 miles
AUSTIN 375 miles
HOUSTON 290 miles
MEMPHIS 280 miles
KANSAS CITY 470 miles
FAYETTEVILLE 235 miles
AIRPORTS
Texarkana Regional Airport , also known as Webb Field, is a public use commercial airport with 91 years serving Texarkana. It is co-owned by Arkansas and Texas. Fly TXK and save on parking, fuel costs, and time.
TAC Air-TXK offers award-winning ground services, quick turns and the most competitive prices on Jet-A and Avgas aviation fuel at Texarkana Regional Airport in Texarkana, Arkansas.
RAILS
HIGHWAYS
Union Pacific Railroad Kansas City Southern Railroad Amtrak passenger railroad service
US Route 59 US Route 67 US Route 71 US Route 82 INTERSTATES I-30 | I-49 | Future I-69 (currently I-369)
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TEXARKANA
POPULATION 153,008 CITY LIMITS 71.5 SQUARE MILES
WORKFORCE 260,000 + LIVING WITHIN 50 MILES OF THE TEXARKANA MSA
LEADING INDUSTRIES
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ON THE COVER
STERNO In the world of food service and home entertaining, few brands have the kind of universal name recognition that Sterno does. For more than four generations, this iconic American company has pioneered the development and production of portable food-warming products for nearly every moment of the American experience—from Girl Scout cookouts to battlefield foxholes to casual holiday parties to disaster relief to high-end catered events. Made in TXK, the Sterno S’more Maker kit provides entertainment for families across the country. The kits are equipped with: • Roasting screen for even marshmallow toasting and flame protection
MADE IN TXK Made by local Texarkana residents, and most importantly, made with pride by Texarkana residents. Check out local Texarkana businesses and their products known well around the nation. • Ledwell builds custom manufactured truck bodies and trailers and provides parts and service for those products. • JCM is the leading manufacturer of pipe fittings and fabrications for the repair, connection, and branching of all types of pipe. • Lavender Thorne manufactures and distributes natural products that are safe, non-toxic and highly effective for you and your loved ones. • Sterno develops and produces portable food-warming products for nearly every moment of the American experience. • Pharma Nobis manufactures 150 products, including pharmaceutical topical and transdermal creams, syrups, and suspension vehicles, and additional pharmaceutical compounding agents. Rich in history and up-to-date in technology and best business practices, Texarkana’s locally owned and operated businesses have been an integral part of the city’s success for decades.
•
Features two built-in s’mores making stations, an easy-to-clean serving tray to store ingredients, and two roasting forks
• Integrated Heat Management System elevates the Sterno s’more heat can to keep the table surface cool and protected The Sterno S’more Maker kit adds even more fun (for all ages) to desserts, parties, camping, and picnics all year round, indoors, and outdoors.
Source: https://www.sterno.com
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Arkansas- Texas Regional Economic Development
COMPETITIVE COMMUNITIES INITIATIVE DESIGNATION On April 13, 2022, Governor Asa Hutchinson and Secretary of Commerce Mike Preston announced Texarkana as the eighth community in Arkansas to receive the Competitive Community Initiative designation. According to the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, the Competitive Communities Initiative evaluation program was developed to support communities as they become more attractive for investment and jobs. The evaluation provides a third-party assessment and recommendations for improving community competitiveness, leading to the potential for more investments, jobs, and economic growth. The website www.areadevelopment.com states that pre-qualified certified sites can be a big incentive for companies, especially those looking to expedite opening a facility. Working with a “shovel-ready” certified site can save significant time in a development schedule. Additionally, certification provides a standardized tool by which both development professionals and business prospects can review prospective sites for compatibility with their needs. A certified site must go through a rigorous pre-qualification process, and standards can vary depending on the individual state or individual economic development agency. Certified sites meet an extensive list of readiness criteria and have documentation proving each item on the list. The Arkansas Economic Development Commission focuses on four pillars of community development: Economic Development Organization, Economic Development Funding, Workforce Narrative, and Product Readiness. The Competitive Communities Initiative works to identify areas of opportunity within the pillars of community development. The initiative aims to ensure that all communities in the state are fully prepared to compete for jobs and investment successfully. Communities, such as Texarkana, that successfully achieve the Competitive Communities Initiative designation benefit from: • Valuable engagement with key community and business development partners • Community recognition by the Governor • Recognition by AEDC via website, social media, and the AEDC newsletter • Recognition by Utility Partner(s) • Included in more RFI submissions • Opportunity for more investments, jobs, and economic growth Source: arkansasedc.com/about
Inc. (AR-TX REDI) CEO Rob Sitterley was named one of North America’s Top 50
Economic Developers for 2022 by Consultant Connect. “Economic development is a team sport, and I am so fortunate to have such a wonderful community all working seamlessly with one another to attract new industry,” Rob Sitterly said. When asked about his favorite characteristic of his community, Rob stated, “The people. There is a culture and vibe in the Texarkana region that is like nowhere else I have ever been. In a world rife with lip service, I am proud to live in a place where people live by their word. It is what drew me to this community.”
Rob Sitterley, Arkansas- Texas Regional Economic Development Inc. (AR-TEX REDI) CEO
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2022 Business Facilities Top Ranked Location
ECONOMY AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES As Texarkana grows, the cities’ leaders intentionally take steps to continually improve the day- to-day lives of their citizens and those who will come in the future. Success for the city will mean building an economically strong, business friendly environment poised to welcome new industry. The combined population of the twin cities is over 60,000 but includes a market of more than 149,000 people across the Texarkana TX-AR Metropolitan Statistical Area. Among these individuals is a dedicated and skilled workforce with a strong work ethic, resulting in successful operation, and continued growth in several industries. Unemployment rates are comparable to the national average, but as our population benefits from a lower cost of living, residents can thrive in this economic climate. Location is key when considering opportunities for business in Texarkana. Access to key markets from the Midwest to the Gulf Coast, made convenient by our proximity to several major interstates, gives Texarkana an edge in drawing opportunities. With access to Texarkana College and University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana, along with a four-year university, Texas A&M-Texarkana, and a state medical school, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences-Southwest, the training of qualified employees is easily within our reach. Add to all of that a dedicated and skilled labor force, and you begin to recognize all the potential of the area. HOUSING AND COST OF LIVING According to Kiplinger’s magazine, Texarkana ranks number 17 in their top 25 cheapest cities in the United States to live. The twin cities have a cost-of-living percentage that is 13.4% lower than the national average. Median household incomes are about $45,000 and the unemployment rate as of December 2020, was 5.9% compared to the national average of 6.7%. With beautiful neighborhoods and affordable housing options, from large historic homes and modern new builds, to apartment and multi-family units, or trendy downtown lofts, Texarkana has the perfect home for every taste. As housing costs make up a large portion of every budget, Texarkana can boast housing rates at just over half the national average. You can find beautiful farmland for quiet country living, take advantage of the charms of suburbia near neighborhood schools and churches, or experience the excitement of nightlife right outside your door with downtown living. Communities of friendly neighbors and the safety of our police patrolled streets, Texarkana, Arkansas or Texas is a great place to call home.
TexAmericas Center is one of the largest mixed-use industrial parks in the Americas, with 12,000 acres and 3.5 million square feet of commercial and industrial property. Our mission is to create 12,000 jobs on our footprint by redeveloping former Department of Defense property into functional space for commercial and industrial businesses. TexAmericas Center is actively accomplishing this mission, with 33 corporate citizens and over 1.1 million square feet of space leased. As a State of Texas-sanctioned Local Redevelopment Authority, TexAmericas Center functions as a unique hybrid of an economic
development organization and an industrial real estate
development and management company. This allows us to offer our tenants custom real estate solutions, value-added services, and unparalleled speed-to-market.
Tex Americas Center
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Texas A&M University-Texarkana received a $45 million capital project appropriation from the 87th Texas Legislature to construct a new academic building on the university’s Bringle Lake Campus. OVER $773 MILLION DOLLARS RE-INVESTED INTO TXK SINCE 2020
Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. invested $80 million for infrastructure and capital improvements.
Texarkana College broke ground on the new McCulloch Industrial Technology Center. The McCulloch Industrial Technology Center will be an estimated $1 million facility that will expand existing workforce programs and offer new technical training programs. Wadley Hospital Regional Medical Center , a Steward Family Hospital has broken ground on the new 400,000 square-foot medical campus that will bring a full suite of state-of-the- art technology and services to the region by Summer of 2024, this is $227 million dollar capital investment
Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. Ranked Top 20 Percent in Forbes World’s Best Employers
Texarkana Regional Airport nearly $40 million project includes not only the new terminal, but the aircraft taxiways, parking lots, and jet bridges for loading passengers.
With headquarters in Ohio and a key manufacturing center in Texarkana, Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. employs a significant percentage of the Texarkana workforce.
Riverbend Water Resource District investment of $200 million to design and construct the major infrastructure components for Regional Water System improvements.
University of Arkansas Hope/Texarkana $3.85 million invested for a new 14,754 square foot facility that will house a welding program, the Secondary Career and Technical Education Center, the Arkansas High Collegiate Academy, and more. At a cost of $25 million, Arkansas Middle School was built at no extra cost to taxpayers. This is the first new school constructed in the Texarkana Arkansas School District in nearly 40 years.
In 2020, Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. was recognized by Forbes as one of the World’s Best Employers. Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. placed within the top 20 percent, ranking 143 out of 750 companies on the list. The company ranked highly in the automotive industry, placing second among six tire companies in the category. Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. previously gained focus on enhancing the employee experience including creating a diverse and inclusive environment. Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. scored a 100 percent on the 2020 Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index and was recognized by both the Women’s Forum of New York and 2020 Women on Boards for female representation on its company board of directors. Cooper Tire & Rubber Co.
A $5 million dollar investment, the new VA Clinic is 24,000 square feet, which is twice the space as its previous facility.
A previous $8 million investment, TexAmericas built a 150,000-square-foot building on 24 acres and is the first new building in the industrial park in 15 years.
TexAmericas Center invested $864,550 to construct new rail facilities and repair existing ones on their campus.
$24 million secured in state and federal funding for the State Line Corridor.
Over $100 Million in Transportation Infrastructure.
A $4.1 million investment of nearly 1,400 acres, The REDI Arkansas Manufacturing Center includes interstate and U.S. highway frontage, along with Union Pacific rail. A commitment of $4.1 million by the City of Texarkana, Arkansas and Miller County officials does not go unnoticed. The leadership’s willingness to bring this purchase to fruition shows their commitment of what it will take to be competitive in today’s economic development environment.
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EDUCATION
TXK IN
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EDUCATION BY THE NUMBERS The commitment to high-quality education, from preschool to graduate school, has long been essential to the quality of life for Texarkana residents. Education provides stability to individuals and communities. With multiple options for public, private, college or postgraduate education, Texarkana is building a solid foundation for our citizens and for the future of the cities’ workforce. Beyond academics, Texarkana’s athletic superiority has brought the cities many state championship titles over the past few decades. From football, track and swim, to baseball and tennis, the trophies continue to accumulate. Accolades in art, theatre, band, and robotics are also prevalent for Texarkana’s talented students. There are options for every interest and Texarkana students take advantage of every opportunity. The educational potential available in Texarkana, USA is setting the stage for a bright future and a vibrant community.
559 Teachers with advanced degrees
13 Average years of teaching experience
17,974 Total enrollment
90% High school completion rate
1901 MALL DRIVE TEXARKANA, TEXAS 75503 903-792-4444 WWW.TXKHOMES.COM
LOCALLY OWNED LOCALLY LOVED
Virginia Ann Prazak REALTOR®/BROKER 903-277-3333
Joe Sterle REALTOR® 903-826-2603
Lorraine Bell REALTOR® 903-280-5655
Kristi Crane REALTOR® 903-244-7168
Ericka Anthony REALTOR® 903-949-9916
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Innovate.Lead.Excel. THE MISSION of Texarkana ISD, a culturally diverse and premier learning community, is to develop and empower every individual by providing innovative and varied opportunities to lead and excel
in a global society through strong family, community, and staff partnerships.
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PK-12 STEM Program
Begins in elementary school, then continues into middle & high school Encourages students to pursue careers in engineering
Over 2,300 students are enrolled in STEM 10% of students go into engineering careers
Franklin Covey Leader in Me Program
Partnership with Texarkana College Earn their associate degree & high school diploma simultaneously 153 high school courses available 459 academic college semester hours available to students The total savings for a student who has completed 1-2 years of Dual Credit classes during high school is estimated to be $20,000 - $30,000/year Dual Enrollment Program Instills leadership & life lessons to students beginning in elementary school Teaches students lessons in banking & finance, interpersonal studies, professional communication & more.
TEXARKANA Independent School District www.txkisd.net Follow us on:
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EDUCATION IN TXK
TEXARKANA PUBLIC EDUCATION
Texarkana Independent School District Innovate.Lead.Excel
Total Enrollment–8,257 Number of Campuses–13
village is rich in talent and strength, all working together to enhance the lives of their students. The mission of TASD is to empower all students to realize their full potential, and to be a school district where educators inspire, leaders are developed and every goal is achieved. In the effort to realize those goals, the brand-new Arkansas Middle School opened in 2021. The new school houses sixth, seventh and eighth-grade students and is the first new campus built in the district in decades. The $25 million dollar project began in 2017. The new middle school is 125,000 square feet and sits on 31 acres. It houses 1,000 students and is equipped with state-of-the-art science and computer labs, two band halls, two gymnasiums and much more. It’s an exciting time to be part of the Texarkana Arkansas School District’s Razorback family!
Since 1889, Texarkana Independent School District (TISD) has been creating a legacy of educational excellence. Their tradition of Tiger pride comes from their rich history of strong leadership and high student achievement. As a culturally diverse and premier learning community, TISD’s mission is to develop and empower every individual by providing innovative and varied opportunities to lead and excel in a global society through strong family, community, and staff partnerships. One of the many ways they strive to achieve that mission is through STEM focused education. The Ross Perot STEM Academy allows students the opportunity to focus on a science, technology, engineering and math course content that is integrated within all core subject areas. This curriculum is rigorous, innovative and college- focused with instruction on inquiry, problem-solving, decision making, discovery and project-based learning. This is just one of the district’s subject concentrations available to all TISD students. Texarkana Independent School District’s commitment to every student, parent and community member has distinguished them as a leader in education in the Texarkana area for over a century.
Liberty-Eylau Independent School District “It Starts Here”
Total Enrollment–2,435 Number of Campuses–4
Leopard pride is evident everywhere you look throughout Liberty- Eylau Independent School District (LEISD). It is a proud community of high achieving administrators, staff and students. Graduates from LEISD leave prepared to reach their full potential as lifetime learners who are confident about their place in an ever- changing world. LEISD’s mission is to provide an instructional environment where all students will develop essential academic, career and social skills for a lifetime of learning. They are working to create an environment in which students can become responsible, contributing and highly productive citizens in a diverse and evolving landscape. Besides high academic achievement, Liberty-Eylau also excels through their impressive athletic programs. With multiple state championship titles throughout the years, including baseball, football, girls’ basketball, and girls’ track, the proud Leopard tradition of athletic victory is outstanding. Diversified programs of instruction to meet the needs of every learner, along with highly qualified leaders and staff who model and
Texarkana Arkansas School District “Potential Realized” Enrollment - 3,943 Number of campuses - 7
Texarkana Arkansas School District (TASD) has been providing quality education for the city of Texarkana, Arkansas since 1884. Their committed staff of educators hold high student expectations and provide a challenging curriculum to push them toward success. TASD believes community and family engagement in the educational process is one key to their classroom success. It takes a village and the TASD
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EDUCATION IN TXK
TEXARKANA PUBLIC EDUCATION
One example of the many options available to Pleasant Grove students is Career and Technology Education. Their CTE programs are dedicated to technical curriculums tailored to meet the needs of all students by providing hands-on academic and technical application. Students earn industry-based technology certifications in Microsoft, Adobe and QuickBooks, or medical training in Phlebotomy or as EKG Technicians. These are just a few of the possibilities available to prepare Hawk students for a fast-paced technical world. Pleasant Grove Independent School District is preparing students to be productive members of the global community, capable and committed to making significant contributions to society. Red Lick Independent School District “Preparing and Empowering Students for a Changing Tomorrow” Total Enrollment–516 Number of Campuses–2 The mission of Red Lick Independent School District is to provide students with an enthusiastic learning experience that is exceptional; to embrace the diversity of our students’ learning abilities; to inspire optimism in all students so they may realize their full potential; to be
encourage character and integrity, make Liberty-Eylau Independent School District the ideal learning environment to set students on a pathway to success.
Pleasant Grove Independent School District “Black and Gold–It’s a State of Mind”
Total Enrollment–2,230 Number of Campuses–4
From its earliest beginnings in 1917, Pleasant Grove Independent School District has grown from a one-room schoolhouse to four beautiful campuses, focused on exceptional student achievement. Academically, students perform above the state average on Texas assessments, and the district offers a wide range of co-curricular and extracurricular activities to enhance the learning experience.
proactive in providing teachers with current technology and training, and to be relentless in the pursuit of these principles for the benefit of their students. According to Niche.com, Red Lick ISD has a 14:1 student-teacher ratio, and it was rated #10 for having the Best Teachers in Texas out of a list of 1,032 schools. With 528 kindergarten through eighth-grade students on two campuses, Red Lick has an extraordinary staff and hardworking students who dream big and push hard for excellence in their education. The Mustang tradition runs deep as Red Lick continues to develop students into motivated learners, ethical leaders, independent thinkers, problem solvers, and collaborators. Yesterday, today, and tomorrow, Red Lick Independent School District is empowering students and preparing them for a great tomorrow.
It is the mission of Pleasant Grove ISD to ensure high levels of learning for all students by aligning policies, programs and practices. They continue to grow and change to meet the needs of their students and community.
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