The second annual Festival of Trees took place November 6–9, 2024, at the Texarkana Arkansas Convention Center. The event featured three days of holiday-inspired activities for the whole family, culminating in a festive Gala and Auction of beautifully adorned Christmas trees. All proceeds benefited Fearfully and Wonderfully Made, supporting NICU families and staff in their ongoing efforts.
The Opportunities, Inc. Annual Autumn Luncheon was held on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at the home of Lesley Ledwell Dukelow. This signature event, hosted by the Foundation Board, has been held since 1985. Founded by Joan Carter and the late Nancy Sandefur, the Opportunities, Inc. Foundation Board raises public awareness about Opportunities, Inc. and its many programs. This year's luncheon was held in memory of Lucille Cook, celebrating the ongoing progress of the organization while raising vital funds to support local children and adults with disabilities in our community.
Harvest Regional Food Bank's 31st Annual Taste of Texarkana was held on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at the Four States Fair Entertainment Center. Dr. Ly and Aaron Gaylor were the grand presenting sponsors of this magnificent Texarkana Culinary Showcase. Food, drinks, and entertainment from Texarkana's top restaurants, vendors, and culinary talent took part in this event benefitting Harvest Texarkana.
… The Annual Texarkana Chamber of Commerce Lunch on the Lawn took place on October 18, 2024, as part of Chamber Week. This member appreciation event allows board members to give back to the community for their support. This year’s celebration was especially meaningful, marking Denis Washington’s retirement and recognizing his many achievements, while also welcoming Dr. Robin Hickerson as the new Chief Executive Officer and President.
… The 15th Annual Jeans and Bling, benefiting Hospice of Texarkana, took place at the Texarkana, Texas Convention Center on Saturday, October 5, 2024. The evening kicked off with a lively celebrity lip sync contest, where Donna Davis of Barbie James Salon claimed victory. Laura Bolt of Red River Pharmacy Services competed, with a special encore from last year’s champ, Jaimie Alexander and Company. The night also featured live music from Michael Rhodes and The Jive Band.
The Farmers Bank Foundation, Farmers Bank & Trust, and the Southern Arkansas University Foundation were thrilled to welcome NFL legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith as the headliner for the 19th annual Farmers Bank & Trust Distinguished Speaker Series on Thursday, September 26, 2024. The special event took place at Southern Arkansas University's W.T. Watson Athletic Center in Magnolia, Arkansas, offering attendees a unique opportunity to hear from one of the most accomplished athletes and entrepreneurs of our time. … Thanks to the generosity of our community, over $111
The University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana Foundation hosted its annual Casino Night on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at Crossties Event Center in Texarkana, Arkansas. Guests embraced the 1920s prohibition theme, dressing in period attire and enjoying a night of casino games, including Blackjack, Poker, Craps, Roulette, Slot Machines, and more. The evening was filled with lively music from Robert St. John’s Psychedelic Radio Band, as guests danced the night away while enjoying great food by Chef Jeff Loving, drinks, and entertainment.
On Sunday, September 22, 2024, CASA for Children and the Texarkana Children’s Advocacy Center hosted the 19th Annual Songwriters on the Edge of Texas concert and golf tournament, featuring Cody Canada and The Departed, with Trey Johnson opening the show. The Tacos N’ Tunes themed event included dinner donated by TaMolly’s Mexican Kitchen and a piñata raffle. … CASA and the TCAC would like to thank its many generous sponsors and donors for their help in raising over $181,000. All proceeds go directly back to CASA and the TCAC.
… The 35th Annual Opportunities Inc. Golf Invitational Tournament was held at Texarkana Country Club on Monday, September 16, 2024. Opportunities Inc.'s mission is to provide developmental and support services to children and adults with disabilities, helping them attain a full life and encouraging the recognition of the value and abilities of all in our community. … Over the past 35 years, Opportunities Inc. has raised over 3.5 million dollars from this event. These funds have been life-changing for the children and adults it serves. … With help from the Opportunities, Inc.
Women for A&M Texarkana hosted a Gourmet Dinner and Auction on August 24, 2024, at Texarkana Country Club. Guests enjoyed a cocktail hour followed by a four-course meal crafted by Chef Anastacia Quinones-Pitman of José in Dallas, Texas, and the evening embraced a "fiesta chic" theme, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with Texas A&M Texarkana supporters. With live music by Chasing Rita and a successful live auction, the event was both entertaining and impactful, raising funds to provide scholarships for Texas A&M Texarkana students.
