Jessica Gray

age: 35 | Instructor and Owner of TXK Yoga | Hairstylist at Shear Country

While Jessica Gray loves the connections that she has built while doing hair for the past 13 years, she felt led to branch out so she cut her time back in the salon and bought Texarkana Yoga. Never in a million years did Jessica think that God would lead her to this position, but she is so grateful to be the one to fill the previous owners’ shoes.  She explains, “Teaching yoga is not only fun but very rewarding. I love to love, and the studio allows me to do just that.  Texarkana Yoga has been special to me, along with many others, for several years.”

Jessica and her husband, Rocky, have been married for 15 years.  Together, they have worked hard to create a happy life for their children, Luke (14) and Everleigh (11).  They love spending time together as a family.  “Laughter is truly the best medicine,” Jessica responds.  “Even though I teach yoga, I also enjoy having my own private practice, too.  I also enjoy going for a hike, and like most women, I love to shop.  Traveling is definitely on the list of things that I enjoy, as well.”

 While Jessica loves to support local schools, businesses, and nonprofit organizations with donations for their causes through TXK Yoga, she also has a special place in her heart for those who are homeless.  She collects toiletry items and other personal items to donate to the Randy Sams’ Shelter; this winter, she plans to collect coats, blankets, and other items for the shelter.

Since she loves teaching yoga, in the future, Jessica sees herself phasing out of the hair business and focusing all of her attention on the yoga studio.  

Best piece of advice:

“Everything will be okay; it will always work out as it should.” –Patricia Launius, Jessica’s grandmother

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I have a 10-year-old cat that is named Kitty Kitty Meow Meow. He is the best kitty in town.”

Nick Mudford

age: 38 | Equipment Operator/Forester | Slam’n Timber Management

Nick Mudford manages a logging company with his two younger siblings. Slam’n Timber Management buys and harvests timber with the hopes of continuing the management of the timber throughout its lifetime. Nick takes a lot of pride in his job and really focuses on the future management of the timber so that it can benefit the land and the landowner as much as possible. 

“I have been on tractors and other heavy equipment long before I ever even had a driver’s license. Hard work was bred into me, and I spent summers and weekends when I was younger as an extra skidder operator or doing odd jobs around the farm,” he describes.  “Now I can run every piece of equipment we own, I manage multiple crews, and negotiate timber deals. I recently began buying timber, which is a different aspect within our business.  So far, the deals I have made have been profitable for the landowner and for our business which is saying a lot in such fluctuating times in our industry.  In the logging community, I have made a name for myself on my timber management abilities.  It gives me a lot of pride when someone takes notice and appreciates the work I do.” 

Nick and his wife, Shanna, have boy/girl 14-year-old twins, Kye and Kami, and another daughter, Maggie, who is 7 years old.  They are proud of their children and have raised them to be God-fearing, kind, respectable, and hardworking.  

Singing in front of a crowd is Nick’s greatest personal accomplishment.  He explains, “If you would have asked me 15 years ago if I would ever sing in front of a church congregation, I would have laughed at you.  Through God, I was able to tackle my fear and now have been honored to be on multiple worship teams and lead a worship team. I thank God for the gift that He gave me, and it feels good to really know I am using it for God’s glory.”

Through his company, Nick has been able to help Habitat for Humanity and the Greater Texarkana Young Professionals with the “Nail A Stud” program, even earning an Honorable Mention for his company in the Stud Muffin Category. He has also been honored to help sponsor Fearfully and Wonderfully Made, a Texarkana area outreach for NICU families.  Active in his church’s youth group and worship program, Nick has been the leader of multiple church youth groups in the community and truly finds working with youth in a Christ-centered environment is where his soul feels fulfilled.

Best piece of advice:

“Always remember to say your prayers.” – Dolores Mudford, Nick’s grandmother

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I used to ‘make’ cookies when I was young. I would pick the cookie dough out of cookie dough ice cream, lick the ice cream off, then bake the dough. My siblings were fans until I told them how I made them.”

Nick Cockerell, DDS

age: 27 | Dentist | Pleasant Grove Family Dentistry

“Dentistry is something that requires trust.  When a patient comes in, they need to be able to have full trust in their dentist,” explains Dr. Nick Cockerell.  “I enjoy helping patients overcome their dental anxieties, while also relieving their pain from a toothache.  My goal is to make a patient’s visit as pleasant and comfortable as possible.”

Graduating from Texas A&M College of Dentistry in Dallas (formerly Baylor College of Dentistry) is Nick’s greatest professional accomplishment.  Since he and his wife, Collins, just moved back to Texarkana, they are eager to find ways to be active in the Texarkana community, volunteering in any way they can to give back to the community that raised them.  Since Collins is employed by the Alzheimer’s Alliance, they enjoy helping out with the Twice as Fine Texarkana Wine Festival, and they have always made it a point to attend Clay’s Golf and Guitars every year.  

While growing up, Nick knew the importance of finding someone to call his better half.  “Thank the Lord, I can honestly say being married to my best friend, Collins, is my best personal accomplishment,” he admits.  “She makes life fun!”

In his spare time, Nick enjoys hunting, fishing, traveling, spending time with friends and family, cooking/grilling, and going to church.  He also loves watching sports ... from the local high school level to the Arkansas Razorbacks to the Dallas Cowboys.  

Nick concludes, “Lord willing, 10 years from now, I see myself continuing to learn as much as I can about dentistry to better the Texarkana community and helping my wife raise a few children.  Oh, and of course, I plan to have a few big deer hanging on the wall.”

Best piece of advice:

“The choices you make today will affect you tomorrow.” — Greg Cockerell, Nick’s father

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I once ran a track meet for Pleasant Grove. I was the second leg of the men’s 4x100m relay. However, the title of the relay was, ‘The Big Boy or Honey Bun Relay.’ No one during the race was gifted as a sprinter, which made it a very entertaining event to watch.”

Jennifer Lewis

age: 33 | Nonprofit CEO | Texarkana Resources for the Disabled, Inc.

Jennifer Lewis advocates for people with disabilities in all ways.  She has always had a strong passion for advocacy and helping people whose voice is silenced to speak up for themselves.  “People with disabilities are still largely discriminated against and underrepresented in all facets of life,” she explains. “That just makes me want to keep doing what I am doing and fighting the important fight for those with disabilities to have equal rights, choices, and access.”

Securing an internship on Capitol Hill working for a Congresswoman during her undergrad is Jennifer’s greatest professional accomplishment.  That experience showed her how much she loved Washington, D.C., and gave her the courage to move back there a few years later. That experience led to her earning a scholarship to attend The George Washington University to obtain a master’s degree. 

Married to Trey, the Lewises have a daughter, Lily, and a son, Wyatt.  Settling down and having a family is Jennifer’s greatest personal achievement. “I know that might seem strange to some as an accomplishment, but I was very ‘free-spirited’ until I met my husband,” she admits. “He keeps me grounded and supports me everyday and because of that we have built a beautiful family, and I am so thankful for the personal risks I took to get me here.” 

Jennifer is a member and serves on the board of directors for the Kiwanis Club of Texarkana. She also participates in all the activities through the club to help children in our community. She has also served as co-chair for the United Way of Greater Texarkana Stuff the Bus Program the last two years where she helps promote, raise funds, and organize the distribution of backpacks to area schools to help children in need start the school year. “I have a soft spot for helping the children in our community get the resources and support they need and the organizations I volunteer with help aid in that,” she explains.

In 10 years’ time, Jennifer still sees herself working at Texarkana Resources for the Disabled, bringing new programs and resources to help in the community for people with disabilities. She hopes to better educate the Texarkana community about people with disabilities through new channels. She jokes, “Since my kids are only 2 and 4 now, I am sure that in 10 years, I will also be one of the crazy PTA moms, organizing bake sales or something.”

Best piece of advice:

“Just be honest with yourself, and do what you know is right in your heart.” —Karen Lindsey-Macdonald, Jennifer’s mentor and friend

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I moved to Foreman, Arkansas, after meeting my now husband at a wedding in Ashdown while I was living in D.C. I had only known him for three months and most of that communication was via Facetime. Seven years and two kids later ... here we are!”

Molly Riley

age: 31 | VP of Marketing and Fundraising | United Way of Greater Texarkana

Since the United Way of Greater Texarkana is a nonprofit orgnization, the biggest part of Molly Riley’s day-to-day job is fundraising.  However, she also loves the marketing aspect of the job, as well.  Meeting new people and sharing with them what United Way is all about is something that she is truly passionate about.

The work Molly does through United Way provides her with a lot of opportunities to be involved in the community and work closely with other local nonprofit organizations.  She also thoroughly enjoys volunteering during Community Healthcore’s annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot.

Molly’s greatest professional achievement was overcoming her fear of public speaking.  “It it hadn’t been for my dad, I don’t think I would be able to do it to this day,” she acknowledges.  “He spent many nights practicing my speeches with me during my freshman year of college, preparing for my speech class.”  Personally, Molly’s greatest accomplishment was working on Attorney General Greg Abbott’s campaign for Governor of Texas (where he was later voted into office).

When she’s not working, Molly enjoys spending time with her husband, Patrick, and her friends and family.  Going to concerts and hearing good music is also a way that Molly enjoys her downtime.  In 10 years, Molly sees herself with a family, still working in the nonprofit sector in some fashion, and being more involved with other nonprofit or civic organizations.  

Best piece of advice:

“You will always miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” — Wayne GretzY

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I am pretty much an open book so this question is a difficult one. MOST people that know me know this, but I’m a huge ’90s music fan. I have older sisters; therefore, my taste in music ranges from Carol King to Third Eye Blind and everything in-between.”

Mikki Curtis

age: 31 | Dean of Secondary Programs | University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana

Mikki Curtis works with area secondary schools to provide higher educational opportunities on the UAHT campus for their students while they are still in high school.  Her specific programs include the Arkansas High Collegiate Academy and the Texarkana Secondary Career & Technical Education Center.  She explains, “The Collegiate Academy is a partnership between UAHT and TASD.  Students begin the academy (located on the UA-Texarkana campus) in the 10th grade and can potentially graduate with their high school diploma and Associate of Arts degree simultaneously.  The Secondary Career Center provides students in our service area school districts the opportunity to graduate with a certificate of proficiency in CNA, EMT, Information Technology, Welding, and Industrial Maintenance. Both programs are completely free to students and allow them to get a head start on college and/or a career.”

Helping create the Collegiate Academy on both the Hope and Texarkana campuses is one of Mikki’s greatest professional accomplishments.  This past year, she watched her first group of seniors walk across the UAHT stage and graduate with their Associate of Arts degrees.  “I love what I do because I enjoy helping students get ahead in their education.  These programs also allow students the opportunity to have a better future by helping them and their families financially,” she explains.  “Being an educator is a great calling, and it is my mission to do what is best for my kids and to show them God’s love.”

Marrying her husband, Casey, is Mikki’s biggest personal achievement.  She admits that he is her “biggest cheerleader and encourager.”  When she isn’t at work, Mikki can be found traveling, hiking, listening to crime podcasts, antiquing, and spending time with her family, her two dogs (Daisy Mae and Jenny) and cat (Kitty Minaj).  She also volunteers at UAHT Foundation events that help raise scholarship money for Texarkana students that attend UAHT.

In the near future, Mikki will be graduating with her PhD in Higher Education and Administration.  She plans  to continue working in higher education and become a chancellor or vice chancellor of academics.

Best piece of advice:

“When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say, I used everything You gave me.” – Erma Bombeck

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I am obsessed with Garth Brooks.”

Mary Beth Rudel

age: 36 | Deputy Director | Ark-Tex Council of Governments

In her role as deputy director at Ark-Tex Council of Governments (ATCOG), Mary Beth Rudel coordinates with the executive director and program heads to implement federal, state, and local programs that provide vital services to communities in ATCOG’s 10-county region.  She supports the executive director in strategic planning for the region and assists with day-to-day agency decisions and operations. “I love that everything our agency does improves the lives of the citizens in our communities in some way. The direct services we provide are public transportation, housing, meals, and home improvements. Our indirect services are providing training to first responders, loans to small businesses, 9-1-1 service to public safety answer points, environmental services, grants for regional development, or planning for disaster mitigation, preparedness, and response,” she explains. “Knowing that I play a role in the success of these programs and services that help so many is very rewarding. The very dedicated ATCOG staff makes these programs and services a true success; therefore, it is very important that I, as a co-leader of ATCOG, work to ensure that staff’s professional needs are met and that employees know the agency supports them. Every day brings new challenges which keeps me on my toes. I enjoy the work I do and find fulfillment in knowing that I am helping others in our agency and our communities.” 

One of Mary Beth’s greatest professional accomplishments has been leading in the design and construction of the ATCOG Emergency Operations Center (EOC). The funding for the EOC was provided by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Emergency Operations Center grant, and the EOC was completed in 2014. The purpose of the EOC is to provide a space for multi-jurisdictional emergency operation coordination for cities and counties in the ATCOG region. For many years, the facility was used for emergency training purposes only. Then, in March 2020, when the COVID pandemic hit our communities, the EOC was utilized for its true intended purpose. Representatives from multiple jurisdictions and agencies worked many long hours inside the EOC coordinating their responses to the pandemic and disseminating information to citizens. Mary Beth is grateful that she had a part in establishing a space that jurisdictions can use for years to come during critical events.

“My greatest personal accomplishment, together with my husband, Dusty, is leading our children, Maggie and Riley, to Christ and being able to witness their decision to follow Him with their lives,” Mary Beth comments. “There’s nothing greater than that!”

Mary Beth serves on the Texarkana Metropolitan Planning Organization Technical Advisory Committee and coordinates with the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce (and other Chambers in the ATCOG region) in planning biennial legislative events in Austin. Assisting with the implementation of various inter-local agreements for services between ATCOG and the City of Texarkana is another way she is privileged in giving back to Texarkana.  She is very active at First Baptist Church Queen City as an AWANA Cubbies Director, Assistant Children’s Director, Ladies Ministry Leader, and participant in the Backpack Food Ministry for Children. Through financial donations as well as material donations coordinated through her church, she supports Mission Texarkana and the ShelterKidz Ministry. She also provides personal financial support to the Texas A&M System, which is near and dear to her heart.

Best piece of advice:

“When you mess up, you must own it, and then forgive yourself. You cannot be useful to others while living under the burden of past mistakes.” — Gayle Miller, Mary Beth’s mother

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I have a healthy fear of the ocean and the creatures within – especially whales. They’re massive!”

Abbie Strunc, Ph.D.

age: 39 | University Professor and Department Chair | Sam Houston State University

“I work in educator preparation, and it’s so important to me,” Dr. Abbie Strunc explains.  “Texas has 5.5 million students enrolled in K-12 public schools across the state. They all deserve a quality educator who is prepared to guide and support their education.”

Before becoming a university professor and department chair at Sam Houston State University, Abbie worked at Texas A&M University-Texarkana for six years.  Her greatest professional accomplishment is earning tenure this year.  She admits that it has been a fun, but long journey, and she is very proud of the work she put in as part of this process.

Personally, Abbie’s family means the world to her.  Married to John, they have three children: Wesley (13), and Emma and Audrey (9).  “I’m so proud of my kids and who they are growing up to be,” she says.  “Watching them grow into the people they are meant to be is my greatest gift.”

Although she hasn’t been able to travel much recently, Abbie loves exploring new places and meeting new people.  She has served as vice-president of PG Connection for two years and joined Women for A&M-Texarkana to give back to a community that supports the regional need for a university.  She admits, “Texarkana’s collaborative educational community is one of the area’s greatest strengths.”  

Because she is so focused and attentive to her career choice, Abbie sees herself continuing to serve educators in Texas in educator preparation for many years to come.

Best piece of advice:

“There is no such thing as never or always.”– Stephen Prince, Abbie’s brother

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I once met former President George W. Bush while I was out for a jog. When we lived in the Dallas area, some friends and I used to do long training runs on Saturday mornings at a nearby state park. We were out one Saturday morning, and he (George W.) came to ride some of the mountain bike trails. Such a random meeting, but I have the grainy, sweaty picture to prove it.”

Brandon Norman

age: 28 | Self-Employed Fashion Designer | Duhbuhlyoo

A visionary in the field of fashion, Brandon Norman is the creative director and seamster of a custom evening wear line. Since an elementary school student, he has been involved in the field of arts in some capacity.  So it was only fitting that he chose a career that was centered around the arts.

 “Every day, I am just amazed with myself, coming from a small city to living in a major city in the nation to having my own bridal business,” Brandon admits.  Whether working with a celebrity on a beautiful evening gown or designing a wedding dress for a friend, Brandon personally feels like each and every day is a great accomplishment.  

Professionally, Brandon has a hard time choosing his greatest achievement, but being a part of history by creating custom looks for the first transgender Ms. Nevada 2021 for the USA pageant definitely ranks high on the list.  

Dubbed a “fashion genius” by many, Brandon enjoys giving back to his hometown community of Texarkana.  “Back when I was making prom gowns, I would select a girl who stood out and achieved good things their senior year and design a complimentary custom gown for her,” he says.  He has also been a guest speaker during workshops in the community to explain what it takes to be in the fashion industry to those interested in every facet of the business, whether modeling, photography, or designing.

Although he currently stays very busy bringing high-end fashion to the Dallas area, when he has time to shut off his brain and relax, he enjoys painting, fishing, and going to Top Golf and Andretti Indoor Karting and Games.

Brilliant and humble, this native Texarkanian’s future looks very bright.  He looks forward to opening a storefront, making the cover of “Vogue,” expanding his bridal line worldwide, and owning an art school dedicated to fashion in the East Texas region.  

Best piece of advice:

“Love what you do, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” — Cliff Norman, Brandon’s father

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I’m just a funny person and love to make people laugh.”

Marjorie Slimer

age: 22 | Caterer/Owner | Slice of Slimer

While growing up, Marjorie Slimer always knew she wanted to be a caterer.  As the owner of Slice of Slimer, Marjorie caters parties and weddings, and hosts in-house private chef gigs.  She explains, “My whole family loves to cook. My business is pretty much family-based! Everyone who works for me is my family, or I consider them family, so it’s fun to be able to spend time together while prepping for events or catering.”

Although she just started catering a few years ago, she is excited about the future.  Her plans are to open a storefront, Franklin’s Kitchen + Catering, within the next year.  “It is exciting to see how much I’ve progressed and learned over the years,” she says.

Even on her days off, Marjorie can usually be found in the kitchen testing recipes.  She enjoys having friends and family over to test her cooking skills.  If she is not in the kitchen, she and her boyfriend, Luke Moczygemba, spend time together on the water, boating and fishing.  

“I really think my greatest personal achievement is doing what makes me the happiest and knowing what I really want to do,” she explains. “A lot of people think you HAVE to go to college, so I grew up thinking that was my only option. I am proud that I was able to make the decision to leave college (TCU) and go to culinary school.”

Supporting people and organizations in the Texarkana area is important to Marjorie. She always tries to assist farmers in this area by incorporating locally-sourced food into the private dinners she caters.   She also works closely with Opportunities, Inc. and looks forward to being a member of the Angel Guild.   She serves on the committee for the Alzheimer Alliance’s Twice as Fine Texarkana Wine Festival, helping plan and organize the event.  She also gives back to the Texarkana Animal Shelter and other local animal rescue groups through donations and encouraging people to adopt pets.

Best piece of advice:

“Start early, and stay up late!” —Bobby Dowd, Marjorie’s grandfather

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I adopted a dog, Mac, from our animal shelter when I was supposed to be dropping off a food donation! He is named after my favorite band, Fleetwood Mac.”

Vashil Fernandez

age: 29 | Planning and Community Development | City of Texarkana, Texas

Vashil Fernandez grew up in Jamaica in a small house with a lot of people.  In doing so, he noticed the condition of the community and its resources and always felt the urge to help change it. Working in Planning and Community Development has given him the opportunity to accomplish that dream/desire and to learn so much that he can one day implement or suggest to his community back in Jamaica.

Receiving his first professional basketball contract with the Miami Heat in September of 2016 was one of Vashil’s greatest professional accomplishments.  A close second to that achievement was when he was promoted to be the interim Director of Planning and Community Development for the City of Texarkana, Texas.

Married for over six years to a “strong, brave, patient, caring, God-centered woman,” Vashil and Bridget, a teacher at PG Intermediate School, have three beautiful daughters, Maia, Olivia, and Kadence.  When he is not at work, he can usually be found hanging out with his family, cooking/baking, or playing/coaching basketball or other games.  

“The day I gave my life to Jesus and made the choice to truly follow His word was my greatest personal achievement,” Vashil admits. “I was almost 18 years old and had been baptized three years prior to that but nothing changed. But at almost 18, I had a skin problem, and the love of the people in the church really helped me through it all. I could see God’s love for me through those people and that inspired me to seek and offer that love to others.”

Vashil is the first and only person in his entire family to graduate college, and he is trying to change that outcome for his younger siblings and other relatives. He serves on various boards and committees in Texarkana, including the Salvation Army board and the Metropolitan Planning Organization Technical Committee.  He is a member of Greater Texarkana Young Professionals (GTYP) and is the president/chair of the Texarkana Homeless Coalition.

In the next three years, Vashil sees himself continuing to help revitalize the downtown area, while supporting the development of revitalized neighborhoods in Texarkana, Texas. Three years from that, he sees himself contributing to the overall growth of Texarkana, decreasing the income disparity, decreasing homelessness, increasing growth in new and existing businesses, and improved infrastructure. Beyond that, he will follow wherever God leads.

Best piece of advice:

“Treat everyone with respect.” — Miss Green, Vashil’s grandmother

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I won a bronze medal in the pre-qualification tournament for the 2016 Olympics, with my national team (Jamaica).”

Kristi Crane

age: 38 | Realtor | ERA Raffaelli Realtors

Kristi Crane has been a realtor for six years now. She has helped over 300 families sell and buy homes here in Texarkana and the surrounding areas.  “It’s such a privilege and joy to help families find a home that fits them or to sell one for them!” she remarks.  “No day is ever the same in this business! I feel like I have the best job. Not only do I help clients in times of need, but I get to celebrate their wins and successes in life. My job as a realtor is to make the buying and selling process as smooth and easy as possible. I want my clients to know that I’m working to represent their interests, and I truly care for them as individuals.”  Kristi doesn’t just treat her job as a business transaction; she builds wonderful relationships and has made some great friends along the way.

Being a wife to Sky and mother to Faith (19), Kenzie (15), Thornton (11), Trent (9), Kolt (7), Josie (6), Rix (1) and Rush (1) is most important to Kristi.  She feels like being paid with hugs, kisses, and hearing “I love you” from the ones she loves the most is a huge accomplishment.  “If I can help grow and nurture my family to make a difference in society, I’d consider that such a priceless accomplishment,” she explains.  “My husband and kids are the bunch that pushes me to be better every day!”

Although being a mother to eight children limits Kristi’s community involvement right now, she knows that her time will come soon enough.  Right now, she spends most of her time involved in her kids’ school activities and sports, as well as events at Heritage Church.  As her kids’ schedules allow, she hopes to be able to engage in serving regularly in local agencies that help children.

“I’m not sure what God has in store for me, but I can’t wait to see what my kids will be doing in 10 years.  With a 19-year-old then, I could be a grandmother with 10-year-old boys of my own!” she confirms.  “I am so grateful as I watch them grow and am so glad to share that with my husband. God has been so GOOD. I can’t believe it can get any better, but He always gives more than we can ask or imagine!”

Best piece of advice:

“Always treat others as you would want to be treated.” — Darryl and Cheryl Chasteen, Kristi’s parents

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I jam out to Christian music. That changes my whole day and keeps me positive!”

Chris Richards

age: 40 | Vice President of Lending | Commercial National Bank

Working in banking, specifically lending, is a path that Chris Richards has chosen so he can utilize his enthusiasm for helping customers and businesses with the common goals to help grow and develop the community.  “I’ve been in banking a relatively short amount of time, but I have managed to join a great team at Commercial National Bank while working for a great Texarkana family,” he explains.  “As a born and raised local, my career path allows me to continue to help our community grow.”

Chris admits that his family is his greatest personal asset.  “I have an amazing wife, Lauren, who is a perfect mother to Frannie and Sutton and an absolute asset to our community and state,” he says.  “As a felony prosecutor for Bowie County, she works countless hours and still manages to raise two wonderful children.  My greatest joy is ending each day with my three favorite people.”

In his spare time, Chris enjoys golfing, although he says that anything his kids enjoy, he will also enjoy.  He has personally served on several local nonprofit boards but the two most important to him personally are CASA and the Alzheimer’s Alliance. “My wife being in the profession she is in, we see firsthand the horrible things some children can experience,” he explains.  “Helping in any way possible is a must, and CASA is a great organization with great people. My mother, Terrie Arnold, is the executive director of the Alzheimer’s Alliance in Texarkana. Alzheimers is a disease most people don’t fully understand.  What it can do to those affected, as well as the family, can be heartbreaking. The Alzheimer’s Alliance allows family members to get the care for their loved ones that is so desperately needed. Helping these two organizations raise money to continue to serve our community is extremely important to me.”

Best piece of advice:

“You can’t be surprised when a circus breaks out when you leave the clowns in charge.” – John Crisp, Chris’ best friend since childhood

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I used to be a pilot. In fact, I flew a plane by myself for the first time the day I turned 16 ... a day before I even had my driver’s license.”

Tyler Raney, RN

age: 30 | Registered Nurse | CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System

A registered nurse at CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System, Tyler Raney feels like his calling in this life is to help those in need who cannot help themselves. He believes that he has been given the ability to help people when they are in the darkest time of their lives. “If I can provide even an ounce of hope, for even one person, I have done what is expected of me,” he explains. “I love what I do because at the end of the day, if I am able to make somebody better, happy, or whatever the case may be, then I can go home happy as well.”

Tyler’s greatest professional accomplishment to-date is being promoted to part-time supervisor within six months of his nursing career.  “It was an unexpected development in my career, and I will forever be grateful for that opportunity,” he says.  “I plan on using that experience to assist in my career advancement and to help me reach my personal goals.”

Making it through nursing school after he had already obtained a bachelor’s degree in another field from Texas A&M University was Tyler’s greatest personal achievement. He felt as though he was not using his full potential as a person in his prior field of work and admits that having to start over took dedication.

Playing golf and “a little cornhole” occasionally, hunting and fishing with his father, and taking his dog, Milo, to Bringle Lake are some of the things Tyler enjoys doing for fun.  

Tyler feels that as a nurse, he gives back to the community every day he is at work.  “The vast majority of the people I interact with on a daily basis are from Texarkana, and I do my very best to assist them in any way they need me to.  I am also very active in community events and openings.  I do my best to support local businesses every time I have the opportunity to and help advertise events and new businesses opening whenever I get the chance to,” he explains.  “I also umpire Little League baseball games on occasion.”

In the future, Tyler sees himself advancing in his career, possibly becoming a Nurse Practitioner or working his way into a management role, and having a family of his own.  He concludes, “The main goal for me is to better myself each and every day and do what I can to better those around me as well.”

Best piece of advice:

“You just gotta live life, man.” – the late Tyler Johnson, Tyler’s close college friend

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I am an only child and an only grandchild on one side of the family.”

John “Bass” Deese

age: 28 | Director of Bands | Pleasant Grove ISD

During his entire life, Bass Deese has grown up around music educators, as well as other teachers and administrators. His parents have spent the entirety of their careers teaching in the Texarkana area, and their influence grew on him when it came time for him to determine what he wanted to do with his life. “I started playing piano at a very young age, and after I joined Beginner Band in the 6th grade, I eventually aspired to become a band director like my father, Buddy Deese,” he explains.  “My job is to give my students the same wonderful experiences in band that I had when I was a student. Our program is designed to give students an opportunity to perform in Marching Band, Jazz Band, Concert Band, and various small ensembles.”

Although he has only been teaching for five years, Bass’ greatest professional accomplishment was being offered the position of director of bands at Pleasant Grove. Though this offer presented itself unexpectedly, his all-time career goal was to lead his own band program, and this was an offer he could not refuse.

Marrying the love of his live, Antonia, is one of his greatest personal achievements.  She shares the same passion for music as Bass does and also happens to be a coworker of his at PGISD.  Being accepted into the Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps, a 10-time world champion drum corps based out of Allentown, Pennsylvania, is also an accomplishment for Bass. “[Being a part of this drum corps] shaped my love and admiration for the marching arts and helped propel me to finish out my music degree,” he acknowledges.

Bass’ community involvement revolves around (drum roll) ... music.  Outside of his professional career, he performs piano for various community groups, weddings, and other public events in the Texarkana area. He also plays piano and trumpet for the Texarkana Jazz Orchestra, and plays trumpet for local churches, such as First Baptist Church Texarkana and First United Methodist Church-Beech Street. With the assistance of the band directing staff at PG, students at the school receive multiple opportunities to perform in the Texarkana area.  In the future, Bass’ plans are to continue to influence the lives of band students and help them pursue their passions beyond high school, even if said career choices are not musically-related.

Best piece of advice:

“To be early is to be on time. To be on time is to be late.” – Buddy Deese, Bass’s father

Name something about you that very few people know:

“My childhood mostly consisted of band, piano lessons, and sports. On top of that, my younger sister, Kate, who took dance lessons, volun-told me to play a part in two different ballet productions, which was an area that was completely out of my league!”