Issuu

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

THE WAY I SEE IT ...

PUBLISHER’S LETTER Robin Rogers, Ed.D.

hursday afternoons are sacred around here. My daughter Emily (also known as Auntie Pickles), my mom (also known as Honey), and I start looking forward to them long before they arrive. Thursday is our day to pick up the boys from Williams School. Brooks turns 6 this month. Hayes is 3. And if I have my way, their baby sister (1) will soon be joining our Thursday adventures too. Our routine is simple, but it feels magical. We head to Honey’s house, where she is always prepared with fruit, cheese, crackers, and—without fail—a pot of Kraft Mac & Cheese. Before we ever pull into the driveway, the boys are already scanning the yard to see what wildlife might be waiting for us. The neighborhood cats are regulars, but thanks to Honey’s generous heart and backyard buffet, we’ve also spotted raccoons, opossums, deer, and all sorts of curious visitors. Along the way, we pass Bringle Park, the university, and the construction at the new sports complex. Behind University Drive sits an old airstrip and hangar, and when the nearby fields are cut and baled, I’ll drive to the back of my mom’s property so the boys can watch the tractors, heavy equipment, and giant round hay bales. It never ceases to amaze me how much little children absorb. They are so smart. They are so curious. And, they are so paying attention. And on Thursdays, they get the full attention of three generations. If they want to read books, we read books. If they want to play cards or Yahtzee, toss corn for the deer, pick vegetables, or run through sprinklers, we do it. Somewhere in those ordinary moments is a kind of love that is difficult to explain but impossible to miss. I remember what it was like being a mom and raising young children. There were jobs, school projects, homework, activities, volunteer commitments, and community events. Thanks to this wonderful career of mine, my children were dragged to more community functions than they probably cared to attend. If something was happening in Texarkana, chances are we were there. And when I was running on empty, grandparents stepped in. My children were blessed with amazing grandparents who filled the gaps in all the right ways. Recently, I saw a grandmother on social media asking for ideas because her granddaughter was coming to stay with her in Texarkana for the summer. What surprised me was the number of people who responded by saying there was “nothing to do” in Texarkana. Nothing to do? I nearly fell out of my chair.

PUBLISHER Dr. Robin Rogers EDITOR Ellen Orr INSPIRE THE PESSIMIST EL E VAT E T H E O PT I M I S T STIR THE MIND EN T ERTA I N T H E S O U L W W W. F O U R S TAT E S L I V I N G .C O M F O U R S TAT E S L I V I N G M AG A Z I N E F O U R S TAT E S L I V I N G

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY Shane Darby ACCOUNT MANAGER Victoria Herman EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Phoebe Warren

There is something happening here every single day. For decades, I’ve spent much of my professional life attending events, meeting people, and exploring every corner of our community. I could easily give you one hundred ideas for things to do without ever leaving city limits. The truth is, people who say there is nothing to do usually aren’t looking very hard. Texarkana is rich with history, creativity, culture, and opportunity. I believe deeply in education, recreation, and involvement. Children learn by being exposed to the world around them. I was the mother who took toddlers to museums, Broadway shows, art exhibits, and concerts. We read books. We sang songs. We made art. My children took classes as soon as someone would let them. Did they remember every experience? Probably not. But exposure matters. As parents and grandparents, we have the incredible privilege of introducing young minds to beautiful things. The arts. History. Music. Nature. Community service. Literature. New foods. New ideas. None of that requires enormous wealth. It simply requires intention. When people tell me they don’t have time, I often wonder how many hours disappear into phones, televisions, and social media. The memories children treasure most rarely come from things. They come from experiences. Years from now, they may not remember the latest gadget or toy. But they will remember “the time we all went to . . . ” Fill in the blank. That is where memories live. And fortunately for us, Texarkana offers countless opportunities to fill in those blanks. Organizations like the Texarkana Regional Arts and Humanities Council continue to enrich our community through exhibits, performances, educational programs, and creative spaces. The Regional Arts Center is one of my favorite places downtown. Have you ever noticed the mosaic sidewalk, the art wall, or the “Dancing Man” sculpture standing outside? Have you stepped inside to experience one of the many free exhibits? Their new maker space on Pine Street invites people of all ages to create, learn, and imagine. The Texarkana Symphony Orchestra provides world-class musical experiences right here at home. Silvermoon Children’s Theatre introduces young people to the joy of performance. The Perot Theatre continues to bring remarkable productions to our stage. Creativity is alive here. Culture is thriving here. Community is flourishing here. Last month, the Texarkana Arts and Historic District unveiled its beautifully restored trolley, another reminder that downtown’s resurgence is creating something special. My friend Brooke Stone played an important role in bringing that project to life, making her the perfect person to share its story and grace this month’s cover. The people who dream, volunteer, build, create, preserve, and inspire are the heartbeat of Texarkana. They always have been. As you enjoy this month’s issue celebrating creativity, culture, and community, I hope you’ll take advantage of the opportunities all around us. Visit a museum. Attend a concert. Explore downtown. Support a nonprofit. Take a child to experience something new. And if you need ideas? Call me: my cell is 903-244-2918. Just be prepared—I might keep you on the phone for a while. As always, thank you for reading Four States Living.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jaime Knighton Baylor McLelland Brandon Shoemaker Brooke Stone Scarlett Stussy-Chaidez Greer Veon Jesse Warren Phoebe Warren

Four States Living Magazine is published the first business day of every month. © Copyright 2026 by Four States Living Magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission of the publisher. Four States Living Magazine is distributed free of charge. Direct mail subscriptions are $40.00 per year. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material contributed.

Do You Have a Story or a Photo?

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

Want to Advertise?

Advertising rates may be obtained by contacting the Sales Department at 903-792-2262, writing to Four States Living Magazine, 4104 Summerhill Square, Texarkana, Texas 75503, visiting our website www.fourstatesliving.com or emailing our Sales Department at info@fourstatesliving.com.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

CONTENTS V O L U M E 3 3 • I S S U E 7 • J U LY 2 0 2 6

ON THE COVER JULY 2026

The Texarkana Arts and Historic District is rolling out a newly restored 1999 vintagestyle trolley bus to help boost local tourism and support downtown revitalization. The communications manager for the City of Texarkana, Texas, shared the restoration process. Read All Aboard on page 10

ALSO INSIDE: SHOWING UP

Eighteen-year-old Brandon Bowman recognizes the importance of community. As a recipient of the Red Shield Youth Leadership Award, he attributes his success to the local Salvation Army, which has provided him with guidance, opportunities, and a sense of belonging. Read about Brandon on page 36

TABLE OF CONTENTS All Aboard Dressed for Success In Tune with Change Showing Up Painting the Town Chief Among Them

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

The Way I See It—An op-ed piece from the publisher Something to Chew On: Inflammation Marfa Artist Profiles Exquisite Interiors: Where Art Lives Notes from the Shoe Box Scene About Town

CONTRIBUTOR SPOTLIGHT Neil Jones has distributed Four States Living Magazine for seven years, ensuring each issue reaches readers across the region. Neil is also the original organizer of the Talimena Rally Cruisin’ for St. Jude, an annual motorcycle rally dedicated to raising funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. A native of Hooks, Texas, Neil is a familiar face throughout the Ark-La-Tex. When he’s not delivering magazines, he can often be found behind the plate as an umpire at baseball games throughout the area.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

10 18 24 36 42 60

6 22 32 52 66 16, 33, 50

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

photo by SHANE DARBY

ALL ABOARD The communications manager for the City of Texarkana, Texas, recounts the collaborative restoration of the new downtown trolley by B R O O K E STO N E

he next time you’re in downtown Texarkana, you may notice something that seems like it rolled straight out of a different era. No, you’re not suddenly in the Neighborhood of Make-Believe, and Mr. Rogers isn’t about to step aboard. What you’re seeing is our newly restored downtown trolley, a project more than a year in the making and the result of countless hours of work from local businesses and downtown advocates. A little over a year ago, the City of Texarkana, Texas, began the process of purchasing a vintage 1999 Freightliner trolley bus from the Ark-Tex Council of Governments. Our city manager, David Orr, had seen it and started asking questions: What kind of shape was it in? What would it take to purchase it? And could we bring it back to life for downtown Texarkana? With the support of the entire Arts & Historic District Committee, we began restoration. I was immediately on board, but once I saw the inside, I was sold. The warm wood paneling, the glowing globe lights, the arched windows, and the wooden benches with their antique-style legs all had a charm you just do not see every day. There was something about it 10

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

that made you want to slow down, look around, and imagine all the people who might climb aboard, take photos, tell stories, and feel that same spark of nostalgia. In mid-July, we brought the trolley to the City of Texarkana Fleet Services Department. After sitting out of service for nearly four years, she had to be hauled in on a wrecker. While she wasn’t running, we could already see the potential beneath the dust and wear, and our team was eager to get started. As it turned out, the trolley needed far less work than we had anticipated, a pleasant surprise and the dream scenario for any restoration project. With a new battery, fresh filters, new fuel pumps, and other mechanical upgrades, she quickly began showing signs of life. Before long, the engine was running smoothly once again, and the trolley was ready to move on to the next phase of her transformation. With regards to replacing the vinyl wrap, Digital Effects was a natural choice for the project. Our committee had partnered with them on several initiatives over the years, and we knew they had both the craftsmanship and expertise needed to tackle a restoration of this

photo by SHANE DARBY

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

photo by SHANE DARBY submitted photos

The trolley bus had multiple uses before its restoration.

scale. In September, they began the painstaking process of removing the vinyl wrap that covered the trolley’s entire exterior. As the wrap came off, the trolley’s original character began to emerge. Beneath it was a classic two-tone paint scheme of green and red, a glimpse into its past. Unfortunately, decades of wear had taken their toll. The paint was faded, brittle, and flaking away almost at the touch. It quickly became clear that restoring the trolley’s exterior would require another type of specialized expertise. What seemed like a straightforward vinyl removal had become a much larger undertaking. Finding the right partner for that next phase proved challenging, and between the busy holiday season downtown and the unpredictability of Texas weather, the search stretched into February. That’s when we finally connected with a local company willing to take on the ambitious task of giving the trolley’s exterior the restoration it deserved. Lone Star Truck Group stepped in to take on the next phase of the restoration. Their team carefully stripped away the deteriorating paint, repaired the damaged bumper, and prepared the trolley for a fresh start with a crisp new coat of white paint. They also generously donated a portion of the project costs as an in-kind contribution, helping us keep the restoration moving forward. Over the course of several weeks, the trolley slowly transformed before our eyes. Once the painting was complete, the finish needed additional time to dry and fully cure, a process that took nearly a month.

While the paint was curing, we turned our attention to the trolley’s final look. Working alongside Digital Effects, we finalized a custom vinyl design that would incorporate the Arts & Historic District’s new branding while honoring the trolley’s vintage character. We wanted it to feel fresh and recognizable but still evoke the timeless charm that made us fall in love with it in the first place. From the classic two-tone color scheme and decorative exterior detailing to the frosted window accents, every element was chosen to capture the feeling of a bygone era and invite riders to slow down and enjoy the experience. Once the paint had fully cured, the trolley made another stop, this time at Audio Center of Texarkana. As another valued downtown business partner, they generously donated the installation of a new Bluetooth audio system, microphone, and speakers at no cost to the project. As the trolley would eventually serve as a platform for historical tours, special events, and community gatherings, having a reliable, modern sound system was essential. With the sound system installed, the trolley was ready for its new wardrobe. Digital Effects applied the final vinyl graphics, bringing together months of planning and restoration into the finished look you see today. From there, the trolley made one final stop on its journey: a much-needed deep cleaning by TNT Mobile Detailing. Unlike the exterior, the interior didn’t need a major renovation, and we wanted to preserve as much of its original character as possible. J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

”

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

photo by SHANE DARBY

“

This project would not have been possible without the hard work, generosity, and expertise of so many talented people and local businesses.

TNT provided the finishing touch that truly put the cherry on top of this project. They carefully cleaned and restored the interior, deodorizing the carpet, polishing the metal rails, refreshing the wooden seating, and bringing new life back to the floors. After more than a year of restoration, we were finally able to unveil the trolley to our community on Friday, June 13th. More than just a vehicle restoration, the trolley project represents a $29,661 investment in cultural tourism and historic preservation, made possible by the Arts & Historic District funding and Texas Commission on the Arts grant funds. Later that evening, during Downtown Live, we opened the trolley’s doors and invited the community aboard for free rides through downtown. For several hours, residents and visitors climbed aboard, explored the restored interior, snapped photos, and experienced the trolley for themselves. After months of hard work and watching the trolley move from shop to shop, it was such a joy to see it finally doing what we envisioned from the start: bringing people together and creating memorable experiences downtown. The trolley will be managed by the Arts and Historic District Committee, a collaborative partnership made up of Main Street Texarkana, the Texarkana Symphony Orchestra, the Texarkana Regional Arts & Humanities Council, the Texarkana Museums System, the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce, and the Cities of Texarkana, Texas, and Texarkana, Arkansas. Although the trolley will not operate as a public transportation service or follow a regular route, it will play an active role in community life. Plans include using the trolley for special events, historical tours, visitor experiences, parades, festivals, and other unique opportunities that showcase everything our downtown district has to offer. In the future, community organizations, businesses, and nonprofit groups will also have opportunities to request use of the trolley through a sponsorship process coordinated through the Arts and Historic District Committee. This approach will help ensure the trolley remains a community asset that supports events and programs aligned with the committee’s mission of promoting and enhancing downtown Texarkana. This project would not have been possible without the hard work, generosity, and expertise of so many talented people and local businesses. The trolley stands as a testament to the talent, craftsmanship, and community spirit that make Texarkana special, and we cannot wait to see the memories it helps create for years to come.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

SCENE ABOUT TOWN The Texarkana Arts & Historic District unveiled the downtown trolley on Friday, June 12th, with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony at the downtown US Post Office and Courthouse. The trolley will serve as a rolling ambassador for the Arts & Historic District and will enhance tourism and visitor experiences throughout downtown. Managed by the Arts & Historic District Committee, the trolley will welcome tour groups, support special events, provide historical tours, and collaborate with both convention centers to promote downtown attractions and activities.

Terry Davis with sons Tavion and Tyree

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

Phillip Jordan and Jessica Plant-Cook

Brooke Stone and Jennifer Unger

Kaitlynn Brewer and Savannah Laney

David Orr and Mayor Bob Bruggeman

Rev. Jaimie Alexander and Velvet Cool

Carolyn Perry and Wilma Leeks

Belinda and Jerald Cole with Jill Lummus

Janet Bentley and Granger Duke

Dani Hamblett, Jessica Plant-Cook, Janelle Williamson, and Hillary Cloud

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

submitted photos

DRESSED FOR SUCCESS Pacer Kim Miller encourages racers in the Run the Line Half Marathon through costumes and camaraderie by B AY LO R M c L EL L A N D

unning in any kind of race can be a trying experience, with the temptation to quit always around the corner. However, races become much easier when shared with others. In her 12 years as a pacer for the Run the Line Half Marathon, Kim Miller has found a way to lift up her fellow runners with humor and spirit. Kim began her running journey on a sawdust track as a Bright Star Tiger near Doddridge, Arkansas. In the seventh grade, she began as a sprinter. In 1994, she graduated from Bright Star High School and gave up her jersey, but Kim refused to quit running.

“Once it’s embedded in you, it’s always there,” she said. When she moved to Texarkana with her husband, Larry Miller, in 2001, she continued to run, jogging around her neighborhood as a way to keep herself active. One day in 2014, however, her mindset changed. “[My running] wasn’t anything marathonlike, but then one day I thought I’d do a marathon, just to see what it’s like,” she said. Kim and four of her friends decided to run the Baton Rouge Marathon together. After months of preparations, she placed second in her age division, sparking a new passion. Later that year, she was asked by a

Above, left to right: 1. In her youth, Kim competed as a sprinter for Bright Star School, near Doddridge, Arkansas. 2. With four friends, Kim debuted as a distance runner at the Baton Rouge Marathon in 2014. 3. Kim ran in the 2023 Boston Marathon.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

photo by SHANE DARBY

“

Through running, you have to learn a lot about yourself. It’s about what you can put your mind to.

”

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

submitted photos

In her official role as pacer, Kim wears costumes for the Run the Line Half Marathon to bring joy to other participants.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

friend to become an official 2:15 pacer for the annual Run the Line Half Marathon. Kim’s job as a pacer means she has to lead any number of runners—all of whom aim to complete their journey in 2 hours and 15 minutes—throughout downtown Texarkana and across the state line during the half marathon, encouraging them not to slow down, not to rush, and, more than anything, not to lose faith in themselves. “The important thing is to have fun doing this,” Kim said. “I can be silly, I can be loud, I can be fun, so why not? The beginning of a race is typically quiet, but not with me around.” Since her first time as a pacer, she has become well-known among runners for her cheery attitude, sense of humor, and fashion sense, always pairing her run with some outlandish costume. Kim described the atmosphere at the beginning of some races as a bit intimidating, which is why the costumes were brought on as a way to help new runners de-stress. She kicked off the trend in 2014 with a bright pink ballerina tutu. After that, she always wore some sort of costume—anything from a magical fairy to an Arkansas Razorback cheerleader. Her favorite is from 2018, when she dressed in a white wedding gown and veil with a bouquet of flowers—a runaway bride. Coincidentally, local lawyer Monty Murray ran that year, dressed in a black tuxedo and bow-tie, unintentionally complementing Kim’s character. “Whenever I’d pass people, I’d ask if they’d seen my husband,” she said. “Everybody, from runners to spectators, managed to get a kick out of that.” Pacers like Kim are challenged not only to keep up a stated pace for 13.1 miles but also to keep a positive attitude throughout. Kim’s mental fortitude has only grown from this challenge. “Through running, you have to learn a lot about yourself,” Kim said. “It’s about what you can put your mind to.” If Kim can keep a crowd—and herself—happy while treading so much ground, she knows she has made an impact. However, the emotional role of the pacer goes beyond providing laughs. During one race, Kim saw a man who had passed her group earlier getting sick on the sidewalk. The man was about to give up before she came over to him, helped him back on his feet, and finished the race with him by her side. “He said, ‘I want to run with you,’ and that just told me I was making an effect here,” she said. Kim said her greatest racing accomplishment is helping others. To racing hopefuls, Kim offers her quintessential encouragement and support. “Don’t be scared,” she said. “At the end of the day, we’re all runners. I didn’t just go run a whole marathon one day; it took me time. Take yours.”

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

INFLAMMATION

A TRENDY TOPIC OR A REAL FACTOR IN EVERYDAY HEALTH? by S C A R L E T T ST U S SY C H A I D E Z , M C N , R D , L D

Stress and stressors One of the biggest drivers of chronic inflammation is stress. When the body senses stress (physical or emotional, legitimate or perceived), it releases the “stress hormone” cortisol. Cortisol affects nearly every body system, helps us regulate blood sugar, and is responsible for the body’s fight-or-flight response. We need it. However, when stress becomes constant, cortisol levels can stay elevated for long periods of time, making the body feel as if it’s in fight-or-flight mode all the time. The original purpose of our bodies’ fight-or-flight reaction is survival. I imagine someone being chased by a lion: their cortisol skyrockets, their attention narrows, their blood sugar levels rise, their blood pressure increases, and now they’re ready to get away from the lion. However, in 2026, our “lions” look more like work deadlines, back-to-back meetings, and financial emergencies. Our perceived threats are less life-or-death but longer-lasting. We’re being slowly stalked by the metaphorical lion every day. The corollary to “fight-or-flight” is “rest and digest.” If the body is constantly perceiving threats, the “rest and digest” system gets less efficient—but, in order to combat chronic inflammation, it is crucial that we make sure our bodies get plenty of rest and nourishment. Resting and digesting Rest is a key factor in preventing and healing chronic inflammation. During deep sleep, the body is repairing tissues, regulating hormones, and reducing inflammation. Inadequate sleep not only gives our body fewer hours to repair tissues and reduce inflammation, but it also gives us more waking hours of perceived stress—which intensifies 22

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

photo by SHANE DARBY

ver the past few years, you may have noticed the word “inflammation” popping up more in conversations, health magazines, and social media videos in relation to fatigue, hormone imbalances, certain disease states, gut health, and even aging. With so much attention on anti-inflammatory foods and supplements, it’s fair to wonder if inflammation is just the newest wellness trend or something we should actually put effort into combatting. Unlike most healthcentric “clickbait,” there actually is some substance to this particular topic. Short-term inflammation serves as one of the body’s protective mechanisms. For example, if you injure your ankle, it will swell up: the blood vessels widen, making room for white blood cells and nutrients to flood the area in order to help it heal. This type of inflammation serves an acute, specific purpose. Inflammation only becomes a problem when it’s more long-term, low-level, and widespread. Chronic inflammation affects our cells’ ability to function normally. For example, I imagine a little inflamed intestinal cell that’s uncomfortable, angry, and stuffy. That cell isn’t as effective in keeping gut contents where they belong, and nutrients aren’t able to pass through it in the same way. Additionally, angry, chronically inflamed cells have a strong link to cancer.

the problem. When noting the importance of sleep, I like to talk about newborns. A newborn’s only objective is survival, and they sleep for 14– 17 hours a day. This demonstrates how important sleep is in keeping us alive and well-regulated. But as adults, we start viewing sleep as optional rather than essential. Research shows that optimal sleep for most adults is 7-9 hours, so plan accordingly. Both stress and sleep deprivation also influence how we eat and digest food. When it comes to stress and food, the two most common challenges my clients report seem like polar opposites: “stress eating” (increased cravings or eating when not feeling physically hungry) and “stress forgetting-to-eat” (accidentally skipping meals or going long periods of time between meals when their bodies actually need nutrition). Both responses to stress make total sense; do you think a person being chased by a lion is thinking, “Wow, I’m pretty hungry right now”? If we’re being stalked by our metaphorical lions every day, our hunger and fullness signals can start getting their wires crossed. In addition, sleep deprivation decreases the hormone leptin (which signals fullness to the brain) and increases the hormone ghrelin (which signals hunger to the brain), further amplifying the changes in hunger we may already be experiencing from chronic stress. Inflammation and food While nutrition is a major part of the conversation, be critical of claims that specific foods or ingredients are such major contributors to inflammation

that they should be avoided at all costs; these claims aren’t scientifically substantiated. Yes, higher rates of inflammation have been linked to frequent consumption of ultraprocessed foods with high amounts of added sugar and saturated fats. However, what does “frequent consumption” mean? Depending on someone’s Omega-3 foods help genetics, fiber intake, gut health, with inflammation. age, activity level, stress tolerance, and sleep patterns, different bodies can handle different amounts of these foods before becoming affected. If someone is highly stressed, working 60 hours a week and sleeping only five hours a night, their sugary afternoon snack isn’t the problem. Just because variables are linked does not mean that one causes the other. That said, there are plenty of tasty, nutritious ways to feed our bodies that promote healthy cells. In my professional opinion, the “sweet spot” for most people is in pursuing a lifestyle composed of mostly fiber-forward, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant-containing foods. Fiber (found in beans, veggies, oats, and chia seeds) feeds our healthy gut bacteria, which in turn release byproducts that keep our cells functioning well. Omega 3 anti-inflammatory fats (found in salmon, tuna, olive oil, nuts, seeds, and avocado) soothe our “angry” inflamed cells. Antioxidants (found in fruit, tea, dark leafy greens, and garlic) help stabilize free radicals in the body that would otherwise cause damage. These categories are the basis of the Mediterranean diet, which is the most evidenced-based healthpromoting lifestyle we have on record. Inflammation is nothing to fear Rather than viewing inflammation as something to be worried about, think of it as feedback from the body. Chronic fatigue, brain fog, poor sleep, changes in cravings, and difficulty recovering from stress may be signs that the body isn’t functioning optimally. The good news is that small, consistent lifestyle changes add up. Improving sleep habits, taking food tips from the Mediterranean lifestyle, managing stress levels, moving regularly, and prioritizing recovery can all help get the body back to homeostasis. Inflammation may be a trendy topic, but its growing attention also points to some truth: our daily habits affect everything from our cells to our stamina. So, choose habits that are science-backed and sustainable, and focus your attention on what you’re doing most of the time. Scarlett Stussy Chaidez, MCN, RD, LD, is a senior dietitian at Doherty Nutrition in Fort Worth, Texas. She was raised in Texarkana by parents in the medical ﬁeld and saw ﬁrsthand how science can help people. As a dietitian, Scarlett uses her love of the culinary arts and her knowledge of evidence-based science to inform her care while treating clients who have prediabetes, diabetes, and cardiovascular concerns. Interested in working with a dietitian like Scarlett? Scan the QR code to see if your insurance will cover a telehealth visit with Doherty Nutrition.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

IN TUNE WITH CHANGE Howard Gustafson of Ragland Piano Company preserves antique instruments of the past with modern technology by J ES S E WA R R EN

Howard and his longtime employee, Roy, delivered a piano to the Perot Theatre by rolling it down Main Street.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

“I see the industry going largely digital,” said Howard Gustafson, owner of Ragland. “There are always going to be folks who want to stick with acoustic pianos, and that’s great. I love acoustic pianos, but, as a businessman, if I were relying on acoustic pianos, I wouldn’t be here.” It’s difficult to imagine such an iconic instrument entering its obsolescence, but the fact of the matter is that digital pianos have advanced quite a bit since their genesis and are chosen in lieu of their bulky ancestors with increasing regularity. When digital pianos sound just as good as—or better than—most acoustic pianos, why purchase the option that requires a small team to move and a technician to maintain? “A nine-foot [grand piano] certainly is going to give any digital piano a run for its money, but you take any of these spinets and

submitted photo

he building at 314 Main Street in Texarkana, Texas, has stood since 1913. In 1997, it became the home of Ragland Piano Company—a business that has evolved over its 30 years and maintains a strong sense of belonging within the downtown landscape. In the days of the building’s construction, pianos were the pinnacle of home entertainment, and a thriving industry supported them. Much like radios or televisions in later eras, pianos were a staple in homes and communal spaces, and their size and quality were a symbol of status. While they haven’t retained that level of cultural importance, they have remained a musical hallmark worldwide and, for most of their existence, have been unrivaled by their digital counterparts. This was certainly the case when Ragland Piano Company opened its doors. However, instruments, like any technology, are subject to innovation, and no one has a better sense of this than the people who sell them.

photo by SHANE DARBY

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

submitted photos

consoles—even studios and small grand pianos—and a digital is going to sound so much better,” Howard said. “The technology’s finally gotten there. Was that true in 1990? No, it wasn’t, but today it is.” This outcome was inevitable, but, left in its wake is a world full of antique pianos with a dwindling pool of tuners, technicians, and parts suppliers to support them. When Ragland first opened, Texarkana boasted a healthy number of piano tuners, but most have since passed away or retired. These antiques aren’t small knick-knacks that can be easily stored away or placed on a shelf to admire. They’re feats of woodworking and engineering designed to be fixtures in the home. Many of these instruments now exist as unusable cherished family heirlooms, without an industry to support their usage. This is a problem Ragland aims to solve. “We’ve carved out a little niche here, where we take these pianos and convert them to digitals,” Howard explained. “I don’t want to say I’m leading this charge or breaking new ground; people have been doing this. I did my first digital conversion in 1998.” Howard compared piano conversions to vehicle restoration. “Look at all the old cars that people take, pull the old engines out of, the old interiors, and they put in new seats with seat belts and put in new modern drivetrain components. We’re just doing kind of that same repurposing to pianos.” In the late 1980s, Howard made a piano shell for a night club in Memphis. He was asked to reinforce the top lid so it could be danced on.

photo by SHANE DARBY

On a family visit in the early 2000s, Howard assisted with piano repairs at his father’s shop, located in Oakland, Tennessee.

Howard learned how to repair pianos from his late father, Leonard. They shared a birthday, October 28th. J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

“

My interest began when I saw a player piano for the first time, at a music store, and thought, ‘Well, that’s just the coolest thing I’ve ever seen in my life.’

photo by SHANE DARBY

”

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

submitted photo

Most digital conversions Ragland takes on are custom jobs, tailored to the client’s requests. When the owner of an antique piano is facing costly restoration, Ragland offers a less-costly alternative, which preserves the piano’s look and feel and greatly reduces the potential for expensive servicing in the future. Their signature style of digital conversion emphasizes preservation of the look and tactile experience of playing the original piano. Projects that are given this treatment are branded “Digicoustic.” “What we do with the Digicoustic is we give it a traditional piano action,” Howard explained. “It’s got keys, it’s got hammers, it’s got all the wooden parts you find in a traditional piano.” While there are no strings in a Digicoustic, the piano behaves as if there are, accounting for the velocity of keystrokes and creating a bigger sound the harder it is played. The digital systems that power them are designed by Howard himself, using non-proprietary electronic components that are readily available to consumers, a feature which puts the ability to replace parts into the hands of anyone with the skillset. “Anybody familiar with pianos can work on the mechanical parts of a Digicoustic,” he said. “I’s kind of open source. Most of

In 2016, Ragland customized this grand shell, which was used in Bryan Adams’ European “Get Up” Tour.

the speakers, the amplifiers, the wiring, all that stuff is readily available [for purchase] on the internet. We have not made any proprietary electronics where you have to come to us to get parts. It’s all right-to-repair stuff, which I’m real big on.” Howard’s proclivity for technical work began in his childhood in Tennessee. Howard reported frequently taking things apart in his youth to see how they worked, ranging from small appliances to a 1946 Pontiac. As early as the age of 10, Howard assisted his father with work on the family piano. “My interest began when I saw a player piano for the first time, at a music store, and thought, ‘Well, that’s just the coolest thing I’ve ever seen in my life,’” he recalled. “Then, I decided to start actually paying attention to what my dad was teaching me.” Pianos were ubiquitous in Howard’s community at the time. “I suppose if I’d been inundated with piccolos, I might have chosen to be a piccolo guy,” he joked, “but, no, I’m a piano guy.” Howard learned piano restoration alongside his father, Leonard, and worked with him in his shop throughout his teenage years. As a young adult, Howard worked at Amro Music Store in Memphis and grew his own business on the side, servicing and rebuilding player pianos. In 1995, a few years after opening his own shop, Howard made the decision to move his operation to Texarkana. He chose Texarkana specifically because of a relationship he was in at the time, but Howard also believes the move was necessary to allow his business to grow. In 1997, he purchased the building at 314 Main Street from The S.M. Ragland Cigar Company; Howard adopted the Ragland name for his business in honor of the Ragland family, who were “very, very patient with a struggling business man,” he said. Ragland has evolved as a business throughout its life in Texarkana, but Howard has always maintained a focus on custom restorations and digital conversions, a service that wouldn’t be accessible to people in the area without him. This poises Howard to put his skills to work in a way he finds fulfilling. “I want to find things that aren’t being done well enough or being done at all, and I want to do a good job of doing it,” he said. J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

Last year, local artists Cindy Holmes and Kenisha Webster were selected to showcase work in the 2025 Marfa Invitational Open. The Marfa Invitational Open is a major exhibition showcasing top Texas talents. It features over 150 artists, including newcomers and established figures across various mediums. The event aims to discover new talent while honoring Texas’ most celebrated artists. One year later, Cindy and Kenisha reflect on their Marfa experiences, as well as their lives as artists more generally.

photo by SHANE DARBY

MARFA Artist Profile

Cindy Holmes Tell us about yourself, your background, and your art. I really became invested in art about 35 years ago, when my son and daughter were entering high school. I always had an interest in art, and I finally found time to explore and learn within art workshops. I loved landscape painting and continued with it until my kids were finished with college. Soon after, I became a caregiver for my parents, and painting took a backseat, but I did have time to think about painting and what I really wanted to say. Later on, I made a conscious decision to change to painting people. I felt it gave me more opportunities to tell the stories I had within me. So now I tell stories through an expressive lens based on figures that I view as mannequins brought to life through paint. They talk about my thoughts, my childhood memories, books, poetry, and anything else that flitters through my mind. Some people have accused me of painting dark humor, but I think that duality reflects our human emotions and the light and shadow of our everyday lives. How was your experience with Marfa? The trip to Marfa was a blast! I had one friend ride to Marfa with me, and four others from Texarkana came down to support me and explore the wilds of Marfa. Those five became known as my “groupies,” as I was the only artist there who had such an entourage. Marfa is such a weird, fun, artsy place in the middle of nowhere, and the opportunity to talk with so many artists across the width of Texas was a once-in-a-lifetime event for me (so far). [Marfa Invitational cofounder] Sonia Borell was there to talk about her book on how to make connections with other artists and people, and that struck home with me, as I’m very much a hermit. I also got to meet [artist] Ray Smith, who knew Andy Warhol and Alice Neel and many other artists from the New York art scene. He told great stories. All in all, it was an inspiring trip that pushed me to keep on working. Where are you from, and how does that affect your work? I grew up in Mississippi and have lived in Texas for the last 30 years. I think that living in smaller towns has affected how I view art. It’s taken real work on my part to expose myself to different kinds of art, through books, Instagram, and museums. 32

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

Who is your favorite artist? Francis Bacon will probably always remain at the top of my list for his grotesque people, Daniel Richter for his electrifying immigrants lost in boats and political paintings, and Anselm Kiefer for his monumental layered paintings. What is something you always have with you? My camera phone, because people don’t always stay still long enough for me to sketch them. What is the biggest challenge of being an artist? My biggest challenge is having confidence in myself and not putting myself down. I will always see other artists who I feel are much better at everything, so I have to give myself pep talks to love myself, love my art, and love the place I’m in. How is art important to society? I think art holds up a mirror to society. I feel like art has splintered in many directions in the last 100 years, and that’s okay. It’s given many artists the opportunity to show their own vision of the world by using paintings, installations, videos, sculptures, photos, clay, and anything else an artist wants to call art. Humans just have to be creative! How do you define success as an artist? I see success as an artist as being able to paint exactly what I want to paint, no matter if someone likes it or not. What’s something that people who know you would be surprised to learn? People might be surprised to learn that I’m a big sci-fi reader. I grew up reading about black holes, IVF, cloning, and AI, long before any medical successes or theories were proven. Years ago, I dragged my husband to one of the first sci-fi films about black holes. As we were standing in line to get tickets, he was complaining he didn’t even know what a black hole was, so of course I got to tell him all about it. Amazingly, a number of people in line gathered around to hear my explanation. I felt incredibly vindicated for reading “trashy” sci-fi novels.

SCENE ABOUT TOWN Texarkana’s Red Shield Youth Center, in partnership with Big Dam Waterpark, hosted The Hope Rush “fun’raiser” on Saturday, May 30th at 3 p.m. Flocks of rubber ducks raced down the park’s lazy river for cash prizes. Individuals and businesses were also invited to purchase large ducks and decorate them for a separate contest the day of the event. All proceeds supported community youth.

Stephanie Brown, Capt. Juan Gomez, and Chasity Russell

Audrey Gomez, Capt. Clara Gomez, and Miguel Rodriguez

Manda Martin, KyZavion Foster, Keston Griffith, and Cam Markcray

Holly and Justin Sheek

Chasity Russell, Shauna Lee, Darlene Taylor, Capt. Juan Gomez, Camille Wrinkle, Nicolas Reed, and Justin and Holly Sheek

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

MARFA Artist Profile

Kenisha Webster Tell us about yourself, your background, and your art. I am a ceramic artist, photographer, painter, and mixed media artist. I originally attended college to study accounting; I never imagined that a ceramics class would completely change the direction of my life. The first day I touched clay, my whole world shifted. My work explores memory, land, labor, heritage, faith, and resilience. I often work with wild clay harvested from my family’s land, reclaimed materials, ashes, and natural pigments. How was your experience with Marfa? Being selected to show three vessels at the Marfa Invitational was one of the most exciting experiences of my life. The exhibition introduced me to an incredible community of artists and collectors from around the world. It was refreshing to be surrounded by people who understood the joys and struggles of the creative process without needing a translator. One of the exhibition curators, Sonia Bloom of Spain, became my gallery representative through Studio To Gallery in Miami, Florida. I am honored to be a charter member and grateful that my work is now reaching collectors around the world. I have since been invited to artist meetups in various countries. Marfa turned out to be much more than an exhibition. It became a doorway into a global community. Where are you from, and how does that affect your work? I am from Atlanta, Texas. The red dirt that became the base of my childhood “sweet potato” mud pies, the dirt that stains carpets and rugs, the earth that “ruins” concrete and freshly washed vehicles—it sits at the very foundation of my practice. The vessels I make do not begin in the studio or from a bag of clay ordered online. They began with a shovel—my daddy’s shovel—and with the clay dug from land my family owns. This clay is wild. It takes me about ten days to process it into what I believe is a workable consistency. I hand-process it slowly, listening with my fingers and waiting until it feels right. I often wonder what my ancestors were thinking when they first acquired this land. For them, land was not just property. It stood for freedom, security, and something that could be passed down. I ask myself: how much blood and sweat does this earth hold? How many times did they want to give up but did not? What were their wildest dreams? And am I one of them? Sometimes I wonder if I am forming their legacy, or if their legacy is forming me. The answer is both. Who is your favorite artist? There are many artists who inspire me, but the person I will always recognize first is Dr. Angela Melde. She was the first person to challenge me to step outside of my comfort zone. She saw possibilities in me that I did not see in myself. She introduced me to watercolor and oil painting and later encouraged me to take ceramics. She pushed me, and because of that, I worked harder. What is something you always have with you? I always have at least one sketchbook and a pencil with me. Ideas do not care where you are or what time it is. I have learned that when inspiration speaks, I need to listen. 34

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

photo by SHANE DARBY

What is the biggest challenge of being an artist? My hands cannot move as fast as my mind. How is art important to society? Art is an outlet. Art gives us a way to express what words sometimes cannot. Art helped me find healing, purpose, and confidence. It gave me a voice before I even knew what I wanted to say. As a person of faith, I believe that creativity is one of the ways we reflect the Creator. Art allows us to connect with one another, preserve stories, and sometimes heal places in ourselves that words cannot reach. Art creates conversations. It records history and reminds us of our shared humanity. Long after we are gone, art remains. How do you define success as an artist? Success is having the freedom to create what you want, the way you want, whether everyone understands it or not. Art is not always comfortable. People do not have to understand why I created something. They do not even have to like it. But if they stop, feel something, ask a question, or see themselves in the work, then I have done my job. And honestly, once the fire gets involved, good or bad, the project is complete. The kiln has a way of humbling you and reminding you that you are not in control of everything. What’s something that people who know you would be surprised to learn? Many people do not know that I paint with dirt, ashes, watercolor pigments, and oils. I enjoy allowing the materials themselves to help tell the story.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

submitted photo

SHOWING UP Recipient of the Red Shield Youth Leadership Award, 18-year-old Brandon Bowman credits the local Salvation Army for providing him and his sisters with a home—and a family by P H O EB E WA R R EN

“F

amily is not who you’re related to. Family is who shows up when you need them most,” said Brandon Bowman, 18, the inaugural recipient of the Salvation Army Red Shield Youth Leadership Award, for both Texas and Arkansas. When Brandon and his sisters were taken in by the Salvation Army’s Center of Hope in Texarkana, they were carrying the weight of circumstances no children should have to navigate. What was to come, however, became a testament to the power of community. The people Brandon met through the Salvation Army became far more than staff members or volunteers. They became role models, and, in many ways, they became family. Brandon moved to Texarkana with his mother and two younger sisters, Gabby and Renee, in 2022, where he enrolled in Arkansas High School as a freshman. “My family was very complicated in my childhood,” he said. His mother was not “very active” in her kids’ lives. “The Salvation Army became a part of my daily life,” Brandon said. “[On days without school] I’d wake up and go to [the Salvation Army’s] church. I would go to the after-school program [the Red Shield Youth Center]. They helped me and my sisters when we needed anything.” Above: Captains Clara and Juan Gomez were among the first to congratulate Brandon after he won the inaugural Red Shield Youth Center Leader Award.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

photo by SHANE DARBY

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

Chasity Russell, the Red Shield Youth Center Club director and Brandon’s foster mom, congratulated him after he received the first scholarship from the annual Wacha Family All Sports Day event in 2025.

submitted photo

photo by SHANE DARBY

Brandon regularly helped with children’s church during services and was asked to start leading after-school sessions at the Red Shield Youth Center. He completed the volunteer training and thrived in his newfound role. “Because of his presence, the kids paid more attention to the sessions since someone cool was running it,” Director Chasity Russell said. “Sometimes he will get on a soap box and tell the kids how they should act and set the example. It’s funny to watch.” On December 17th, 2024, Brandon’s mother surrendered him and his siblings at the Center of Hope Shelter. DHS was notified. Chasity quickly intervened to keep all three children together and safe. “[My husband, Jason] got off work at 11 p.m., came home, saw how upset I was, and asked what was wrong,” Chasity said. Jason reassured her that they would go get the kids, and by 8:30 a.m. the following morning, the couple signed the paperwork to be their foster parents. Salvation Army Captains Juan and Clara Gomez were instrumental in ensuring the Russells had everything they needed, gathering support from the community for needed supplies and furniture. Four new mattresses were provided by Ashley Furniture. Local non-profit organization Just Love and Kindness provided linens, bedding, cookware, and other household essentials. Another local non-profit, The Pink Behind the Thin Blue Lines Confidence Closet, provided supplies as well. Furniture was donated by the Salvation Army’s Family Store.

Members of the Salvation Army Advisory Board prayed over Brandon for his continued safety and success at a recent board meeting. J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

submitted photo

When Captain Juan Gomez asked Brandon if he had been scared when being picked up by DHS, Brandon told him, “No, because I knew y’all would come get us.” “The biggest influence in my life is Captain Juan Gomez,” Brandon said. “He stepped into my life when I felt like I had nothing. He showed me how to become a man, and the values that are important to me now, many of them I got from him. [Director and foster parent Chastity] has helped me so much— just overall making me a better person, teaching me how to be an adult, and she still helps me to this day. She takes care of me and my sisters, she makes us feel loved, anything that we could really need or want.” Brandon also named Jason Russell, as well as Captains Clara Gomez, Derek Smith, and Odessa Smith of the Salvation Army. “Those six people have had such a great impact on my life that I can attribute most of my success to them,” he said. “Those people are my rock, my sunshine, my foundation, and I love them very much.” This year, the Salvation Army held statewide contests for the Salvation Army Red Shield Youth Leadership Award. Brandon was nominated from his club and won the Arkansas title by default, as the Texarkana center is the only affiliated club in Arkansas. However, he was allowed to compete against Texas applicants as well. The initial application consisted of an essay, resume, and cover letter. The three state finalists participated in live and video interviews, and they gave speeches in front of an entire assembly at the Dallas Salvation Army Headquarters. Brandon moved two of the three judges (as well as many audience members) to tears after being named the winner. He was awarded a $5,000 scholarship and a new laptop.

Brandon, his sisters, and his foster parents enjoyed last year’s Pickle Fest in Texarkana.

submitted photos

The Salvation Army of Texarkana Women’s Auxiliary members have encouraged and supported Brandon for the past several years.

Brandon and his family enjoy attending the football games at Arkanas High together as a family.

(This was not his first scholarship award; Brandon also received a scholarship from the annual Wacha Family All Sports Day event in 2025.) “Leadership means you are a servant—you serve the people first and you reward yourself later,” he said. “Leadership is the act of helping others get through or complete a job. Once you do, you get that sense of pride, because it’s not you that completed a job, it’s not you that did it. We did it. We completed this job. We did this task. We helped that person.” The Salvation Army is not the only downtown spot Brandon frequents: throughout high school, he worked at Berridge Bikes. “The first day that I moved to Texarkana, I walked two miles to the closest bike shop,” he said. He asked if he could do some work around the shop to earn a mountain bike, and owner Terry Berridge agreed. “Whenever I could, whenever I didn’t have school, whenever I didn’t have things to do at home, I would work at Berridge Bikes. Terry Berridge is an amazing boss, and [everyone] made me feel very welcome.” His hard work paid off tenfold—he earned the bike he wanted and remained employed at the shop for several years. In May, Berridge gifted him a brand-new bicycle as a graduation gift. “He has been [through] a lot these past couple of years, and we here at Berridge Bikes are very proud of him for getting [through] it all,” the store posted on Facebook. Brandon talks about the Red Shield Youth Center not as a place where kids are sent to in order to stay out of trouble, but somewhere they can become better people and find a home away from home. “They’ve given me opportunities,” he said. “They have provided for me and my sisters, which has always been my biggest concern. They allowed me to live out the rest of my teen years as a kid.” Now Brandon is ready to face the world as an adult, with unwavering optimism. A Junior ROTC cadet, he plans to enlist in the United States Air Force. He doesn’t worry about leaving his sisters, Gabby (16) and Renee (14), as they remain in the Russells’ care. No matter where life takes him, Brandon is positioned for success because he understands the value of community, leads by example, and consistently shows up for others. J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

PAINTING THE TOWN

photo by SHANE DARBY

es Weiner of Magic Hat Muralist is the artist behind nine public murals in Texarkana, including the frequently-photographed Texarkana balloons piece, the geometric TXK logo downtown, and the wildflowers on the South State Line Avenue/3rd Street underpasses. Though born, raised, and beloved in Texarkana, she is very active in other parts of Texas and Arkansas, as well as throughout Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri. To date, she’s done over 100 murals across the states. Jes left Texarkana at 19 and eventually settled in Bentonville. She and her husband chose the bustling Northwest Arkansas town to raise their three kids. The thriving art scene was a big draw to the area, and

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

it has placed her in one of the fastest-growing arts communities in the region, helping to accelerate her career as a muralist. While she now calls Bentonville home, Jes remains committed to sharing her community-focused art in Texarkana. Jes still has strong ties and roots here, and she was excited to become involved when the murals downtown started appearing. “As soon as they started painting downtown, I wanted in,” she said. Despite living and building a career elsewhere, she remains deeply connected to her hometown and has actively contributed to its artistic transformation. By sharing her talents across multiple states, she also spreads her belief that art is for everyone.

submitted photo

Texarkana native Jes Weiner talks art, community, and the business of murals by JA I M E K N I G H TO N

photo by SHANE DARBY

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

submitted photo

Having drawn and painted her entire life, Jes once asked her high school art teacher if she thought she could make a career out of her art. The teacher confidently stated, “I don’t think you can do anything else.” Her teacher’s comment was not meant as criticism: it was recognition that art wasn’t a hobby for Jes but a calling. Jes said that her most unique mural is one she did at an emu farm in Pea Ridge, Arkansas. She created a large postcard concept, incorporating Arkansas landmarks into the letters for the state name. For two and half months, while working on the mural, the emu sidekicks spent time eating her paint, stealing her brushes, and constantly interfering. “They’re like velociraptors!” she laughed.

A client commissioned this work for their dining room.

<< Jes has collaborated with others to create large-scale murals and projects, such as the Love Thy Neighbor mural (formerly in the Kress Gap).

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

submitted photo

Though Jes typically paints alone, she loves creative collaboration with clients and community members.

photo by SHANE DARBY

Jes’ favorite of her murals is located at a vacation rental in Broken Bow, Oklahoma. Her face lit up as she described the three life-sized horses running towards the viewer on an interior wall inside the cabin. She also shared that the mural she created at Lost Pizza was a lot of fun. She was halfway through when the owners informed her that, through an accident of miscommunication, Jes had been painting the wrong design. Fortunately, she was able to regroup and redo the piece in half the time she had originally anticipated. In the end, it turned into one of her favorites, and the clients loved it. Like many professional artists, Jes never pursued formal training in art, though she did spend a short time in Milwaukee when she was 17 for an arts internship. She had high school art classes and said her informal learning comes from libraries, books, podcasts, and studying art history on her own. She largely built her skills through self-directed learning. She is often inspired by music. “Sometimes I hear a song and see a painting,” she said. She also loves creating symbolic imagery which viewers can interpret personally. Jes is currently working to help secure funding for her biggest dream project: transforming a children’s home in Arkansas with color, inspiration, encouragement, and beautiful public art. Together with the home, she is seeking grants and donors, and is exploring crowdfunding. She wants to add visual stimulation, motivation, and hope for the children who live there. Although Jes usually works alone, occasionally she brings in a close friend or other artists, and sometimes her dad. In the past, she has collaborated with others to create largescale murals and projects, such as the Love Thy Neighbor mural (formerly in the Kress Gap), which was painted with the help of volunteers, including children. “Teamwork makes the dream work,” she said.

“

Art matters. Communities need more art. Public art belongs to everyone. People deserve to be seen.

”

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

Jes said that she worries about the harms caused by generative AI, which can limit creative collaboration: in her experience, a client may become attached to AI-generated concepts that aren’t easily created by the human hand, and human brainstorming can become reduced. Further, Jes expressed that generative AI is incapable of human creativity. Paraphrasing a Hans Zimmer quote, Jes said, “AI can only draw from what’s already been done; humans innovate.” She followed this by saying, “I hope people brag one day and say, ‘A human made this.’” << With full creative control, Jes created this mural for King James Wine in Bentonville, Arkansas.

submitted photo

Jes painted this cheerful mural for the Community Table Food Bank in Bentonville, Arkansas.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

submitted photo

This large equine mural, located in a vacation rental in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, is a recent favorite of the artist.

Jes’s advice for young artists is simply to make art, over and over. Make bad art. Make embarrassing art. Make vulnerable art. Draw, paint, experiment. Use libraries, study artists, borrow inspiration, and don’t obsess over finding a style. “You cannot make great art without making bad art first,” she said. “Art is for everyone,” she continued. “Creativity is human nature. Children are naturally artistic, though some tend to drift away from it as they grow and age. Artistic ability can be rediscovered at any age. Art matters. Communities need more art. Public art belongs to everyone. People deserve to be seen.” Ultimately, Jes wants to be known for more than just her art and murals. She wants to help others feel empowered, accepted, and connected. She said that, when people hear her name, she wants them to think, “Jes Weiner makes me want to be myself.” She said that she hopes her children will remember her with paint on her hands.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

SCENE ABOUT TOWN Four States Furniture celebrated the grand opening of their new store on Thursday, June 4th. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to welcome the community to the new location at 502 Walton Drive in Texarkana, Texas.

Jennifer Lawrence, Tiffany Spangler, and Adison Hargrove

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

Megan Namoff and Tammie Lacy

Scott Short, Mitzi Dowd, Stacie Melton, Toby Burke, and Bob Warren

Izzy Miranda, Jack Wilson, and Caitlin Clingan

Patrick Cook and Richie Wicks

Melvin Padgett, Mayor Bob Bruggeman, Davis McDaniel, Chuck Lincavage, and Craig Manning

Hillary Cloud and Chloe Wardlaw

Angie Wilson and Grace Wilson

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

EXQUISITE

INTERIORS WH ER E A RT L I V ES

s to r y by P H O EB E WA R R EN

p h o to g r a p hy by S H A N E DA R BY

r. Angela Melde’s home is art itself. Behind its Mediterranean-inspired facade lies a world of color, imagination, and texture. Paintings, sculptures, and treasured pieces share equal importance with the home’s striking architectural details. This sophisticated home, built by Jake McDonald Custom Homes, tells the story of its owner with stunning accuracy. Walking up to Angela’s home, one can almost feel an ocean breeze in their hair. The exterior clearly takes inspiration from the landscape of the Mediterranean. The cream-colored stucco walls give off a coastal vibe, and the arched entry walls and tall windows framed by dark wood allude to old European villas. In the entryway to the home, a potted olive tree sits by the gate leading into the yard.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

Inside, the atmosphere shifts in a dramatic way. At first glance, the interior is abundantly eclectic. Family antiques reside in several rooms and contrast the more contemporary elements of the home design. Hints of Asian influence are also sprinkled throughout. The most striking feature of this home is the art. There is artwork on almost every wall. Some of the art is massive in scale, like the beautiful urethane-on-aluminum piece displayed in the living area. This 3D piece was created by artist Mike Bishop from Gladewater, Texas. The first room to the right of the entrance is Angela’s personal library. One especially thoughtful decorative touch in this room is an old address book completely filled out. This belonged to Angela’s late mother, who loved to host a good party. In the living area, a builtin bar area displays glass pieces gifted to Angela by friends and family throughout the years. Pieces of Angela’s life are indeed reflected in every nook and cranny. Angela’s own paintings; photos of her grandsons, Tripp and Stetson; various artworks from dear friends such as Jeannie Edwards, Jeff Brown, or Joel Wright; and precious family heirlooms all work together to create a rich tapestry of life and love.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

EXQUISITE INTERIORS

Angela’s space is shared with her three cats, each named after a famous artist: Kahlo, Goya, and Dalí. Commissioned pieces from local artist Cindy Holmes of Angela and her feline friends are on display. “I asked Cindy to create a portrait of me and my cats,” Angela explained. “When I went to look at the artwork, she had created three paintings to my surprise, with wonderful exaggerated features and expressive postures that captured me and my three cats in a unique and fun way.” Even the functional elements in the home are artistic. The light fixtures from Logan Electric are elegant, the appliances from Lafferty’s Home Center are sleek, and the swirled tan and black countertops from Alpha Stone TXK are truly stunning. Every part of the home catches the eye in a way that feels exciting but not overwhelming. Angela and her daughter Anna LeFevre decorated the interior themselves. All of the artwork on display

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

EXQUISITE INTERIORS

was sourced from the Ark-La-Tex area and arranged purposefully. “I want my walls to function almost like a private gallery,” Angela said. “The transition between styles is intentional—from Renaissance-inspired realism with attention to light and form, to contemporary abstract paintings alive with gesture and color.” Angela, an artist and visual arts instructor at Texarkana College, claims the in-home studio as her favorite room of the house. “It is where creativity and quiet reflection come together,” she said. “It is a place where I can step away from the noise of everyday life and focus on creating. I love being surrounded by paints, brushes, and works in progress. It is not just a workspace but a personal sanctuary where I feel connected to my passion for art.” There are other spots of sanctuary to be found. The primary bathroom is a perfect retreat to wash the day away, with an impressive black-marbled walk-in shower and a soaking tub by the window. The back patio also serves as a place of respite. “I like the open space and tall ceilings where I am close to nature,” she said. “It provides a calm, quiet atmosphere where

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

EXQUISITE INTERIORS

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

I can relax and unwind, bring my paints outside and work, or gather and visit with friends while enjoying the surroundings.” The space is beautifully arranged, with potted plants, a stucco fireplace, and elegant patio furniture, including a striking dining table from Deruta, Italy, crafted from volcanic and lava stone and hand-glazed. Dr. Angela Melde’s home is more than just a place to live; it is an extension of her creative spirit. Every space reflects her life, passions, and personality. Each wall is a canvas, and every room is a story. Nestled beneath towering pines, Angela’s Mediterranean retreat reflects the heart of an artist.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

submitted photo

CHIEF AMONG THEM In his 30th year of service, Heath Lotz recently obtained the ultra-rare rank of chief warrant officer 5 by G R EER V EO N

eath Lotz, a native of Texarkana and graduate of Arkansas High School, enlisted in the Army in 1996. Thirty years later, he has achieved the rank of chief warrant officer 5—the highest warrant officer rank, held by fewer than .003% of active-duty service members; CW5s are jokingly known as “unicorns” among service members. Warrant officers are specialists. The US Army website describes the warrant officer as “the adaptive technical expert, combat leader, trainer, and advisor . . . [T]he warrant officer administers, manages, maintains, operates and integrates systems and equipment.” A CW5 is a professional whose expertise is sought out when the answer is not in the manual or when the manual is wrong. As per the US Army website, CW5s are “master-level technical and tactical experts. The role requires unique operational experience, top-tier leadership qualities and the ability to provide sage counsel.” Above: In April, Heath was promoted to chief warrant officer 5 (CW5). His promotion ceremony was held in Fort Lee, Virginia. CW5 is the highest warrant officer rank in the United States Army.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

photo by SHANE DARBY

“

I have been so fortunate to have a really supportive family: my parents, our parents, and the people in Texarkana have always supported us all the times I have been gone.

”

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

submitted photos

Heath was deployed to Liberia in 2014 as part of Operation United Assistance, a response to the Ebola crisis in West Africa.

Heath received his master’s degree from the University of Arkansas in 2024.

Heath—formally addressed as CW5 Lotz—specializes in maintenance. As he explained, in order to become a maintenance warrant officer, an enlisted soldier must meet certain criteria, submit an application, and complete Warrant Officer Candidate School. “A CW4 I worked for encouraged me to submit an application, which resulted in my appointment as a warrant officer in 2008,” he said. Over the following 18 years, he rose through the ranks and was named a chief warrant officer 5 in April 2026. Over time, he completed his bachelor of science in organizational leadership from the University of Charleston and last year graduated from the University of Arkansas with a master’s in operations management.

Sgt. Tanner Lotz, Heath’s son, and friend Chad Trenary, a retired chief warrant officer 5, pinned Heath at his promotion ceremony.

Heath’s deployments include tours in South Korea, Romania, Liberia, Afghanistan, and Iraq. He has received many medals and awards, including a Bronze Star Medal and Meritorious Service Medal. Heath said that some of the most rewarding moments of his career so far have also been some of the most challenging. Among these was his tour in Liberia during the Ebola outbreak in 2014. “I was part of an engineer battalion from Fort Hood who were responsible for building the Ebola treatment units in cooperation with the World Health Organization and other agencies. The mission was much different than my previous deployments. It was also eye opening and rewarding,” he said.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

submitted photos

Heath’s wife, Tiffany, is also from Texarkana; the couple began dating while attending Arkansas High School. Traveling with the Army has allowed them exposure to so many places outside of the four states area. “Due to the Army being a melting pot, we have experienced many diverse people and cultures,” he said. “Aside from travel, one of our most appreciated perks of the Army has been the opportunity to learn about different ways people live across the United States and the world.” When reflecting on navigating the challenges in his career, Heath noted that it takes a village of support. “Soldiers spend a lot of time away from home,” he said. “I have been so fortunate to have a strong support group that includes family, friends, and many people from our hometown,” he said. “Over the years, my family and I have been on many church prayer lists across Texarkana, and we do not take them for granted.” Heath has served in different capacities. His first warrant officer assignments were at the tactical level, with back-to-back deployments to Afghanistan. Most recently, he completed a three-year assignment at Fort Lee, Virginia, teaching strategic maintenance in the Ordnance Warrant Officer Senior Course. At the time of publication, he is being relocated to Hawaii. When asked what inspires him to keep moving forward in his career, Heath said that it is an honor to serve. “I truly enjoy the Army lifestyle,” he said. “As challenging as it can be at times, the pros outweigh the cons.” Heath feels especially paternal toward younger soldiers given that his own son, Tanner, currently serves in the Army as a Black Hawk helicopter mechanic. “I feel extremely fortunate to serve at the same time as him,” Heath said.

Heath and his wife, Tiffany, attended a military ball held in Nashville, Tennessee, in 2020.

Tanner Lotz, Heath’s son, currently serves in the Army as a Black Hawk helicopter mechanic.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com

NOTES FROM THE SHOE BOX by B R A N D O N S H O EM A K ER

ne thing I’ve realized over the years is how many traditions we participate in without ever asking why. We decorate trees. We sing “Happy Birthday” (objectively a terrible song). We shake hands. Most of us inherit these cultural customs long before we understand them. For example, every July, Americans gather outdoors during the hottest part of the year, consume alarming quantities of processed meat (and often alcoholic beverages), and then intentionally ignite explosives within a close distance of one another. When you really think about it, that’s a strange way to commemorate a document. Unless, of course, you’re not really celebrating the document. This year marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. And whether you’re a history buff or somebody who mostly associates the Fourth of July with barbecue and sunburn, it’s worth pausing to consider why some traditions endure. I love fireworks. Few things have the power to put my curmudgeonly self in the mindset of a giddy schoolboy, but exploding chemicals hundreds of feet in the air do just that. Watching a fireworks show on television isn’t enough. I want to be there. I want to feel it. I want to smell it. I want to leave with temporary hearing loss. And I’ll enjoy them for any occasion. New Year’s? Absolutely! Labor Day? Sure! Your second cousin’s bat mitzvah? Okay! Give me a celebration, and I’ll pull out the sparklers. But on Independence Day, I feel an even more visceral reason for celebrating with fireworks. In my early 20s, I went to a public fireworks show on the Fourth of July, in Charlotte, North Carolina, where I used to live. It was the first inperson fireworks show I had been to in years, and it was the culmination

of a day-long celebration that led up to a free public concert by Sister Hazel, my favorite band. Now, at that time, Charlotte boasted the eighth-largest Fourth of July fireworks display in the nation, so this was not somebody’s drunk uncle out back holding up some Roman candles and throwing cherry bombs. This was a 20-minute show, synchronized to music, and the first one of that magnitude I had ever seen. When the music began, the first mortar took me by surprise. From our position amid the skyscrapers of the city, each blast of light and sound was almost directly overhead. What struck me the most was feeling the percussive blast of each round not only in my ears but also in my chest. I could actually feel the shockwave through the air. After a few minutes of oohs and ahhs, a thought crossed my mind. Standing in the middle of the city where General Cornwallis met such resistance from the Continental Army that he said going through Charlotte was like going through a hornet’s nest (which, incidentally, is how the Charlotte Hornets got their name), it occurred to me that the percussive feeling I was enjoying so much was (granted, on a much smaller scale) the same feeling soldiers in the Revolution felt amid muskets firing and cannon volleys. For the first time, the Fourth of July stopped feeling like a holiday and started feeling like a remembrance. After a while, the fireworks paused, but the music continued and then swelled, leading up to the show’s finale. One after another, bright gleaming blasts of cascading sparkles exploded in rapid succession, in perfect synchronization with the music, and I realized this sound—and this feeling—was probably even closer to an accurate representation of being in battle. I am willing to admit that there have been many times when I was moved to tears by something incredibly beautiful—and have no doubt: that fireworks finale was truly beautiful. But the tears in my eyes were tears of gratitude. Of humility. Of mourning for the lives lost to win the freedoms that we take for granted every day. I never served in the military. I never witnessed the horrors of the battlefield. But one thing my mom, a social studies teacher, instilled in me from an early age was an appreciation for the sacrifices that were made, and continue to be made, to preserve our freedoms. Looking back, I think that’s why fireworks have endured as part of our Independence Day celebrations for so long. They are beautiful, certainly. But they are also loud. Uncomfortable. Impossible to ignore. For a few brief moments, they remind us that freedom wasn’t handed to us quietly. It was won through sacrifice by people who believed deeply enough in an idea to risk everything for it. That’s a thought worth remembering 250 years later. I don’t know yet where I’ll be spending Independence Day this year. I may be in Texarkana, or I may be on vacation at the beach. But wherever I am, rest assured that I will find some fireworks somewhere to watch—and to feel. Brandon Shoemaker is the director of theatre at Texas High School, where he spends his days bringing stories to life onstage and his nights overthinking them on paper. He is also the co-host of From Art to Atoms: The Ultimate Curiosity Show, a podcast that explores everything from pop culture to science, with equal parts insight and curiosity. When he’s not directing productions or chasing deadlines, he’s likely tending to a creative project from woodworking to bonsai styling, or falling down a pop culture rabbit hole. With a deep love for humor, nostalgia, and the beautifully absurd parts of everyday life, he blends wit with heart to ﬁnd meaning in the mundane.

J U LY 2 0 2 6 . fourstatesliving.com