Latest Stories


Taste Buds

photos by Matt Cornelius
Mudbuggin’ … As spring grows closer, and the days start warming up, we’re hitting that sweet spot in the year—crawfish season. It’s time for the tradition we all love—diving into piles of those spicy, delicious mudbugs. If you have lived in the south for any amount of time, chances are you have been exposed to the ritual of dining on boiled crawfish. This year, thanks to some wacky weather our crawfish buddies were playing hard to get. The reason we’re seeing fewer crawfish basically boils down to not enough rain and way too much heat.

Locally Owned, Nationally Known

Right here in Texarkana, where Texas meets Arkansas, we have businesses making their mark on a national scale. Through ambition, innovation, and community spirit they have crossed geographical boundaries. Each feature celebrates not just the success but the journey of these enterprises—from humble beginnings to becoming household names in different industries. By making products locally with local talent, they prove Texarkana is more than just a spot on the map. Explore the diverse paths these businesses have navigated and the challenges they have overcome.

The Texarkana 100 Year Hall of Fame

Businesses and organizations founded at the beginning of the twentieth century that remain strong today epitomize resilience. Withstanding monumental events, including a world war, The Great Depression, the attacks of 9/11, a global pandemic, and more, these century-old establishments have navigated periods of economic prosperity and downturn, strategized around new competitors entering the scene, and triumphed over older competitors seeking an edge. They are a testament to their founder’s power of vision and the unwavering dedication of a long line of loyal employees.

Always Learning

photo courtesy of Gary Kusin
Gary Kusin was born a third generation Texarkanian. His grandfather immigrated to Texarkana on his way to Monroe, Louisiana, to join his brother’s highly successful mattress manufacturing business. “The train stopped in Texarkana on a Saturday at lunch and all the farmers were in town selling their produce,” he said.

Maximizing Potential

photos by Kevin Goodman
Whether it’s a house she’s flipping or a business she is starting, Lauren Callaway Francis strives to create an end product that maximizes her vision. In her most recent remodel, she created both an amazing home and a unique neighborhood. “In 2020, I bought the ten acres across the road from this house with the intention of building a home someday for myself. Then, this property became available, and I didn’t really know what I was going to do with it but bought the house and another almost 12 acres. I initially rented this house out while I was trying to figure out what to do.

Gary Kusin

photo courtesy of Gary Kusin
Gary Kusin was born in Texarkana, Texas, in 1951, and graduated from Texas High School in 1969. Kusin is a mentor, investor, entrepreneur, business advisor, and author of the forthcoming book Always Learning: Lessons on Leveling Up from GameStop to Laura Mercier Cosmetics and Beyond, available April, 2024. Today, he advises an array of public and private companies, large and small, on strategy, management, and growth issues.


Good Evening TXK

photo by Matt Cornelius
Having those people in our lives who see something special in us when we really don’t even see it in ourselves can be life changing. I have written a handful of articles about those who have yanked the best out of me in my personal life: my mom, Ali Deal, and other family members. But I haven’t really written about those who have mentored, fostered, and nurtured my strengths in my professional life. … While I’d hardly consider myself some highly successful businessman, I have found myself in professional positions I never could have imagined I would be in five years ago.

Texarkana Financial Profiles

Texarkana Magazine takes great pride in acknowledging the skill and valuable contributions of the community's local banks and credit unions. These institutions are the benchmark of excellence, dedicated to ensuring their clients' financial well-being and confidence.

To achieve optimal outcomes in financial endeavors, engaging with a professional is key. Expert advisors are there to enlighten you about your choices, introduce innovative concepts, and guide you through the journey ahead.


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Talk Tuesday

  • A Dog’s Best Friend

    When I was growing up, one of my favorite movies was Annie.

  • Inaugural TRAHC Honors Gala

    The Texarkana Regional Arts and Humanities Council's inaugural gala, TRAHC Honors, will take place this Saturday, March 23.

  • Pretend Play to the Real Deal

    Hey, fabulous readers!

  • Curating Confidence

    I remember more than 25 years ago watching Cher virtually select her outfit for the day with the click of a button in Clueless.

  • Partners Resource Network

    I don’t want another parent to feel alone when dealing with diagnoses, finding resources, and learning to advocate for their child.

Faces & Places

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