-October, 2022, Issue 9-

Tips to make trick-or-treating trouble free

Create a map of a safe trick-or-treating route and set a time limit for your children.
Always be in groups. Parents should accompany young children.
Children should know their parent's full names, home phone number and/or cellphone numbers.
Try to get your kids to trick-or-treat while it’s still light out.
Never go into homes — stay on the porch or stoop when asking for treats.
Never go anywhere with strangers or get into strangers’ cars.
Look in all directions before crossing the street, and obey all traffic signals. Walk, never run, across the street, and use sidewalks, not the street, for walking.
Do not take shortcuts through backyards, alleys or parks.

Costume safety

Wear clothing that is bright, reflective and not flammable;
Wear sneakers or comfortable shoes.
Use face paint (non-toxic, hypoallergenic) and avoid masks
Don’t wear floppy hats or wigs that slide over the eyes.
Avoid toy weapons, or use costume knives and swords that are flexible, not rigid.
Stay away from pets. The pet may not recognize the trick-or-treater and become frightened.

Check all treats before eating.

Only eat unopened candies and other treats that are in original wrappers.
If in doubt, throw it out.

Adult Halloween safety

Motorists should drive slowly and be on the alert for excited youngsters.
Don’t drink and drive.
Keep your driveway & porch lit & clear your walkways of any tripping hazards.
If not home turn off all exterior lights & consider leaving a sign on your door saying so.
If you host a Halloween party, don’t serve alcohol to minors. Also, make sure your guests have a plan to get home safely if they are drinking.
If you’re an adult chaperone for a trick-or-treating group, stay aware of each individual you are responsible for by doing a quick roll call between each stop.

Available FOR SALE: 12,000 +/- sf

Medical, Office, Retail, Warehousing, Trucking, Logistics

910 Realtor Ave., Texarkana, AR

Listing Contact

Adam Dukelow 512-492-5584

The Battle for Hochatown continues, Breaking News Update...

McCurtain County Commissioners held a public hearing on Monday (8/22/22) and voted YES, 3 to 0, to include the Hochatown Incorporation question on the November 8, 2022 general election ballet. Deadline to register to vote is October 14, 2022. The 307 residents just might get their ZIP Code back... Located in far southeastern Oklahoma – in an area often call Little Dixie – the unincorporated town of Hochatown lies off U.S. 259, roughly 10 miles north of Broken Bow. It’s just about a mile west of Beavers Bend State Park and Broken Bow Lake.

Once a bustling lumber and mining community, Hochatown was known as a haven for bootleggers in the 1920s. Today it’s one of the hot spots of Oklahoma tourism.

The town lost its post office in 1963.

Residents of Hochatown have been fighting to incorporate their town since 1993, said Dian Jordan one of the sponsors of the petition. Jordan said she was stunned by Monday’s vote.

“I thought they (the commission) would continue to stall on us,” she said. “I mean, it was pretty clear what they should have done. They kept throwing roadblocks on us.”

Edmond attorney Lysbeth “Liz” George said the community was successful because they never gave up. “It’s about being the squeaky wheel,” she said.

George said commission’s yes vote allows the town to submit language to the McCurtain County Election Board for the incorporation vote. She said that language was filed Monday to ensure that the incorporation question would be on the ballot for November.

Jordan said the fight over Hochatown’s incorporation was necessary to ensure that the town had the proper infrastructure and municipal government. She said tourism has grown so much in the area that any weekend brings thousands and thousands of visitors to the area.

Southwest Ledger ArticleSouthwest Ledger Article

Hochatown, Oklahoma, is where the action is for Texas-based cabin builders

"It's crazy. It's unbelievable," said Wayne Watson of Grand Prairie, Texas, owner of Sooner Cabins, which builds around Hochatown and Beavers Bend State Park at Broken Bow Lake, a mile east.

Now, he said, with so many new investors, developers, and little oversight since Hochatown isn't incorporated as a municipality, "It's like the Wild West. There's some good ones and some not-so-good ones."

At the end of last year, the median home sale price in the Broken Bow area, including unincorporated — for now — Hochatown, was $658,000, up around 65% from 2020, according to Realtor.com. Incorporation, for infrastructure, appears to be in the cards.

By way of comparison, the median price in the Oklahoma City metro area ended 2021 at $230,000.

The Oklahoman

The University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana will celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Texarkana campus with a special “Casino Night” party.

The event you don’t want to miss will be held at the Texarkana Arkansas Convention Center on Saturday, October 8, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. Join us in your finest Vegas attire for a festive evening of casino games to include Blackjack, Poker, Craps, and Roulette. Enjoy dancing to the music of the Tin Man Band, a high-energy seven-piece band from Dallas, Texas. This unique celebration is hosted by friends of UA Texarkana, including Dr. Christine Holt, Shelby and Mayor Allen Brown, Prissy and Dr. Randy Hickerson, Robin and David Hickerson, and Morgan and Dr. Brent Bennett. Tickets to Casino Night are $75 each and can be purchased at: Click Here

/201909

Chamber Announces Total Resource Campaign

“Committed to the regional business community, I believe in the mission of the Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce and the avenues by which they seek to grow, not only our regional business environment, but also each individual business,” says Sonja Hubbard, principal of the Yates Group.

Texarkana USA Regional Chamber of Commerce is preparing to launch its first Total Resource Campaign (TRC), with Hubbard serving as the TRC chair.

In explaining a Total Resource Campaign, Denis Washington says, “Through this endeavor, businesses will find increased opportunities to gain exposure among Chamber membership and stakeholders. Additionally, they will experience a greater return on investment by securing higher profile visibility in the community through Chamber programs and initiatives.”

The TRC will provide businesses, both large and small, with opportunities to reach diversified customer groups and grow their businesses. Member businesses will see a return on their investment and will be able to determine which options best suit their business needs.

Steve Mayo, president/CEO of Mayo Manufacturing says, “It’s important to understand the mission of companies and their actions to meet their target markets. We hope all businesses – especially smaller businesses – will see the TRC as a way to get involved in the chamber programs with which they feel most connected.”

TRC volunteers will be contacting local business leaders about marketing opportunities that best match their needs in the coming weeks, which begins on September 21, 2022.

“We look forward to working together for the betterment of our local business community,” says Hubbard.

Press Release

TEXARKANA, Texas -- Forbes magazine has ranked CHRISTUS Health among the best employers in Texas in its annual Best Employers By State list.

CHRISTUS took the top spot in the Northeast Texas region. "Whether a seasoned nurse or a new grad, you will find a wealth of opportunity and an outstanding culture at CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System," said Chris Glenney, chief executive officer, CHRISTUS Health Northeast Texas. "We are grateful to be recognized as one of the best health care employers in the state of Texas and the best in this region."

CHRISTUS St. Michael Hospital-West is shown in this undated architectural rendering. The hospital is expected to open next year at Gibson Lane and Arista Boulevard in Texarkana, Texas. (Rendering courtesy of CHRISTUS St. Michael)

Texarkana Gazette Article

TEXARKANA, Ark. -- Texarkana Regional Airport is flying high.

Officials announced Thursday that the airport has received the 2022 Arkansas Airport of the Year award. Texarkana Regional bested 74 other commercial and general aviation airports to land in the winner's circle.

"Receiving this award is a great honor, but the true recognition goes to the hard work of our staff and the local community that supports the airport," Executive Director Paul Mehrlich said. "This award represents our strategic goal of positioning Texarkana for a future of continued growth and economic importance."

The award was presented Tuesday by the Arkansas Airport Operators Association. It recognizes airports across the state that make outstanding contributions to the overall Arkansas airport system, according to a news release. The award also recognizes community efforts to expand and improve the airport.

The award comes during the airport's $36 million terminal construction project. The 40,000-square-foot building is slated for completion in 2024.

Texarkana Gazette Article

DeKalb Elementary makes the grade as National Blue Ribbon School...

DeKALB, Texas -- DeKalb Elementary is adding a feather to the district's cap. The school of 324 students was announced Friday as a National Blue Ribbon School -- one of just 31 schools in Texas and 297 nationwide to receive the designation from the U.S. Department of Education.

DeKalb Elementary earned the recognition for its overall academic performance or progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups. "Public schools are considered for nomination based on student performance on the first administration of the previous year's STAAR assessments, as well as College and Career data and Graduation rates if applicable," the TEA said in a February news release.

DeKalb Elementary was the only school in the region to receive the 2022 Blue Ribbon designation.

Texarkana Gazette Article

Available 825 sf - 10,000 sf

Office Spaces for lease.

Interstate 369 Frontage

911 N. Bishop St.

Listing Contact

Tim Lambert 903-736-6796

‘Wine & Tapas’ 2022 Happens on Friday October 7 BUSES... The annual TAPAS & WINE fundraiser – supporting HandsOn Texarkana, is Friday October 7th. This outside event takes place in the beautiful grounds of the Collins Home, 1915 Olive St. Doors open at 5:30pm. Come dressed in your best 1920s attire -optional but so much fun! Delicious courses will be paired with exquisite wine. Enoch’s Stomp will be back this year! Live music by Chasing Rita and a large silent auction make this event even better!

Smile on the Line photo booth will be here to capture those special moments.

Sponsorships available by calling 903-798-3211.

Texarkana FYI Article

The Texas Commission on the Arts Board of Directors met September 3rd and voted to award $56,000 to the Texarkana Arts and Historic District for a Texas Cultural Project grant.

“We are grateful for this funding from the Texas Commission on the Arts and the support of the Texas legislature for the Texas Cultural District program,” said David Orr, Chair of the Arts & Historic Committee. “These funds will assist with continued improvements to downtown Texarkana.”

The Texarkana Arts & Historic District is a collaborative regional marketing initiative focused on historic downtown Texarkana. District partners include 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 Arkansas. To learn more, check out Our website.

TXK Today Article

New Local Non-Profit to Raise Funds for the Protein Insecure... The Ranchers’ Table, is a new ministry, founded for the purpose of providing high-quality protein products to those in our community experiencing food insecurity. Currently, a staggering 20% of our local population does not have enough food on the table. For this reason, the Ranchers’ Table was formed in 2021 and is building a network of ranchers, food banks, butchers, and volunteers to work together to help those facing insecurity in our local region.

The founder of the Ranchers’ Table, Ed Williams, was introduced to cow herding by his dear deceased friend, Mike “Shorty” Smith. Mike shared his love and knowledge of cattle and now Ed has launched this ministry in memory of his friend and mentor. Currently, the Ranchers’ Table is providing ground beef to several local food banks but needs more resources to continue their good work. To support the organization’s mission, they are asking for donations of livestock, land (donate or leased), volunteer time and financial donations. The Ranchers’ Table also asks for your prayers for this new nonprofit to build their own herd to meet the local demands. You can donate online at Our website.

TXK Today Article

2000 +/- sq ft

office/retail suite

for LEASE Summerhill Rd.

$2500 Per Month (incl. Water & Trash)

Newly Remodeled - Luxury Vinyl Tile Floors, Neutral Wall Color, 2 Restrooms, Break room, Lobby & Offices

Busy Summer Place Shopping Center

Your Identity on Pylon

Listing Contact

Curt Green 903-255-1702

Harvest Regional Food Bank’s “Taste of Texarkana” Returns for 29th Year...

Taste of Texarkana is back, and we are ready to let the good times roll! Voted one of the top 5 Best Charity Events in Texarkana, the 29th annual Taste of Texarkana will be Tuesday, November 1st, 5-8 p.m., at the Four States Fairgrounds arena. Each restaurant or beverage distributor will have the opportunity to showcase their specialties for over 1,800 attendees. All proceeds will benefit the hunger relief programs of Harvest Regional Food Bank.

For More Information

Morgan Steel to open Greenville facility

110 New Jobs!

A carbon steel distributor expected to bring 110 jobs to Greenville aims to be fully operational early next year at the city’s industrial park.

Memphis, Tenn.-based Morgan Steel recently purchased the former Woodgrain building and has commenced renovation of a 123,200-square-foot tilt wall industrial facility at 5700 Enterprise Drive in Greenville. The county and the city approved tax abatements for the company in July. The abatements exempt 50% on the increased value of real property over 10 years.

Morgan Steel is a family-owned carbon steel distributor and contract manufacturer. The company ships next day to customers throughout Texas, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, Missouri, Louisiana and beyond. Morgan Steel services original equipment manufacturers, fabricators, agriculture, service centers, material handling and other steel product users.

Herald Banner Article

Built in Arkansas: LMXT Strategic Tanker Boom Refueling System to be Produced in Western Arkansas... “We are excited to continue expanding our U.S. footprint by partnering with the state of Arkansas to create the LMXT refueling boom production site and center of excellence. It is an honor to bring Airbus innovation to the state for this and future manufacturing opportunities,” said C. Jeffrey Knittel, chairman and CEO of Airbus Americas. “The state-of-the-art boom system is a vital aspect of the overall LMXT offering, and we are proud to be working with Arkansans to build this best-in-class solution for the U.S. Air Force.”

While the exact location of the manufacturing facility has yet to be determined, it will expand Airbus’ footprint into “The Natural State.” Manufacturing plays a significant role in the Arkansas economy, accounting for about 15% of the state’s economic output. More than 12% of all Arkansas residents are employed by the manufacturing industry, according to the Arkansas Economic Development Commission.

AEDC Article

Available 1530-3060 sf

Retail/Office/Showroom/QSR/Deli space for RENT

300 E New Boston Rd, Nash TX

Listing Contact

Adam Dukelow 512-492-5584

Longtime Red River Army Depot mechanic inducted into Army Materiel Command Hall of Fame.

A mechanic with 54 years of experience at the Red River Army Depot was recently announced as the first industrial artisan to be inducted into the Army Materiel Command's Hall of Fame. James Carpenter has rebuilt, repaired and overhauled combat systems and tactical vehicles for the U.S. Army since 1967. While he's always taken pride in his work ethic throughout his long career, he never thought an honor like this would come his way.

"I was really humbled by it and very honored," he said. "It was quite a shock because I didn't see it coming. I'm still in awe of it."

Adrienne Brown, RRAD public information officer, said Carpenter is the first artisan or mechanic to be inducted into the AMC Hall of Fame. The U.S. Army Materiel Command Hall of Fame, established in 2012, honors and memorializes those Soldiers and civilians who have made significant and enduring contributions to AMC and the Army. The Hall of Fame preserves the command's history and recognizes the exceptional leadership, service and dedication of former AMC members for their remarkable efforts.

Texarkana Gazette Article

Real Estate & Construction News

Finally breaking Ground on the New QT In Nash, TX

The fast-growing, Tulsa-based QuikTrip — also called QT — is coming to the ArkLaTex region for the first time. The new QT travel center for Texarkana will be located near I-30 off the Nash exit in the Cross Pointe Subdivision near Road Runner and Dixie Diner.

The new, 24-hour QuikTrip travel center will be a 7,719 square foot brick building with 80 parking spots (with 3 handicapped spaces) and a gas canopy with 10 gas pumps and diesel pumps to accommodate large trucks.

QT, which promotes the slogan "More than a gas station," is known as a highly-skilled company in customer service with a super-efficient, high-volume business model.

Nash News Article

Front Street plaza upgrade project moving forward • Work on stage to begin within weeks • Restrooms unavailable until spring • Total cost $900,000-$950,000

TEXARKANA, Ark. -- Work on planned improvements to Front Street Festival Plaza will begin within weeks, but one key component of the project -- public restrooms -- will not be installed until spring at the earliest.

Work on the plaza's stage, now a bare concrete platform, should begin in two to four weeks, City Manager Jay Ellington said. Plans include a roofed scaffolding structure around the stage to facilitate sound and lighting equipment, as well as sponsor advertising. But prefabricated restroom stalls are on back order and will be unavailable for about six months.

"It's slow based on supply and demand, as well as construction cost and time frame," Ellington said.

Texarkana Gazette Article

4,480 +/- sq ft

office building

for SALE

TexAmericas Center

195 James Carlow Dr.

Listing Contact

Curt Green 903-255-1702

TEXARKANA, Ark. -- Monjunis Italian Cafe & Market is making a return to the Twin Cities.

Monjunis posted on its Facebook page earlier this week that the cafe would be coming back to Texarkana in January 2023.

The Italian spot will be at 511 E. 51st St., which is the former Copeland's location.

The cafe and market previously had locations in Texarkana on New Boston and Summerhill roads before closing. Monjunis origniated in Louisiana and has three locations in the Shreveport area.

Texarkana Gazette Article

TEXARKANA, Ark. -- Bird fleet manager Don Smith parks serviced scooters Sunday evening, Sept. 18, 2022, at Bobby Ferguson Park. The scooters are reserved using a mobile app for $1 to start and 39 cents a minute, with a $3 minimum. They can be driven anywhere within the service zone -- which stretches just west of Walmart Supercenter on New Boston Road, north to just past the interstate and south to near Arkansas Highway 245 and Loop 151. A fully charged scooter can travel up to 8 miles. Smith said the scooters are "the best thing to happen to Texarkana," opening opportunities for transportation and entertainment. For instance, he said out-of-town workers can use them to get around the city instead of driving their work vehicles. Smith said in the two weeks since the scooters were deployed, there have been only a few occasions of misuse, with one rider tossing a scooter in the bushes at an Arkansas-side apartment complex. Smith said recently he saw a line of up to 10 people riding scooters from downtown north on State Line Avenue. More information and the Texarkana service map can be found in the Bird app.

Texarkana Gazette Article

TEXARKANA, Texas -- A new drive-through coffee business is settling down on Richmond Road.

"We have plans to open December 20th of this year," said Amos Kropf, franchisee of Scooter's Coffee.

Kropf said he hopes to get construction started in the next three weeks and start hiring shortly after construction begins.

"We just think it (Texarkana) is a great area," Kropf said. "There's a lot of college students and schools that will probably like coffee.

Lisa Thompson, public information officer for the city of Texarkana, Texas, said Scooter's Coffee received a permit last month. "We welcome this new business to our town, and wish the owners much success in the future," Thompson said.

Scooter's Coffee was founded by Don and Linda Eckles, who opened their first drive-thru coffeehouse in 1998 in Bellevue, Nebraska, according to the company's website.

"Their keys to success: find a great location and stay committed to high-quality drinks, speed of service and a BIG smile," the website states.

Texarkana Gazette Article

Fall events at Spring Lake Park, Moveis in the Park, Fall Festival, Community Yard Sale, Bark at the Park, and Trunk or Treat. For more information call 903-798-3978