Category Archives: Community

Groundbreaking for New TAMUT Building

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Texarkana is set to witness a significant leap in higher education as Texas A&M University-Texarkana prepares to construct the new Business, Engineering, and Technology Building. This state-of-the-art facility, named in honor of James C. Morriss, founder of JCM Industries, promises to transform the university and the surrounding community. The groundbreaking ceremony, held on May 30, 2024, marked the beginning of a project that will provide a hub for innovation and academic excellence for generations to come.

A Transformative Facility for East Texas

The James C. Morris Business, Engineering, and Technology Building, a $45 million project funded by the Texas Legislature, will be a three-story, 50,000-square-foot facility located on the southwest side of the university campus. Scheduled for completion in the spring of 2026, the building will house the Center for Financial Literacy and Investment, numerous laboratories for mechanical engineering and design, and a 225-seat lecture hall/auditorium. What makes this building unique is how it is going to impact the local area and the students that are going to be attending the facility.

Honoring a Legacy of Innovation

The naming of the building and the Division of Engineering after James C. Morris is a testament to his legacy of innovation and commitment to excellence. Morris, a former president of the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce, founded JCM Industries in 1976 with his wife, Gladys. The company has been a leading provider of supplies for the water and wastewater industries nationwide for over 40 years.

“We are beyond proud to have this state-of-the-art academic facility named for Mr. Morris and are profoundly grateful to his family for the contributions they have made to honor his legacy,” said Texas A&M University-Texarkana President Dr. Ross Alexander. He would continue by saying, “This showcase academic building will help attract, educate, and train talented students and graduates for generations to come”. Jim Morris, son of James C. Morris, expressed his gratitude, stating, “When I look at this picture (the photo of what the new building will look like), it gives me goosebumps, because I don’t think he could’ve ever imagined it, but I just know how proud and excited he would be if he could see it, so I have that same kind of feeling”.

Enhancing Academic Opportunities

The new building will not only provide updated facilities but also expand academic opportunities for students. The university plans to launch approximately 15 new degree programs at the baccalaureate and master’s levels in business, engineering, and technology within the next few years. The facility will also allow the recently established College of Business, Engineering, and Technology to explore new academic programs, such as computer science, with a focus on machine learning and cybersecurity.

A Hub for Community Engagement

The James C. Morriss Business, Engineering, and Technology Building is more than just a building; it’s an investment in the future of Texarkana. With a 225-seat auditorium and modern laboratories, the facility will serve as a venue for large lectures, community events, and collaborative research projects. It’s kind of like a community center where everyone comes together to exchange ideas and experiences.

Construction on the new academic building began in July 2024, with substantial completion expected in February 2026. As the building takes shape, it symbolizes the growth and momentum of Texas A&M University-Texarkana, which will soon attract, educate, and train talented students and graduates for generations to come.

Event Details:

  • What: Construction of the James C. Morriss Business, Engineering, and Technology Building
  • When: Construction began July 2024; Completion expected Spring 2026
  • Where: Texas A&M University-Texarkana, Southwest side of the campus
  • Cost: $45 million
Tomorrow we break ground on this amazing new facility! Join us on campus… | Texas A&M University-Texarkana

80th Annual Four States Fair & Rodeo Coming to Texarkana

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Texarkana, AR – The 80th Annual Four States Fair & Rodeo is set to take place April 4 through April 13, 2025, at the Four States Fairgrounds, featuring rides, live music, competitions, and family attractions.

The fair opens April 4 with the Monster Truck Mash, featuring massive trucks racing, jumping, and performing gravity-defying stunts. On April 5, the Demolition Derby will bring thrilling collisions as drivers compete to be the last vehicle running. The Four States Rodeo, scheduled for April 10–12, will feature bull riding, steer wrestling, and barrel racing, drawing top rodeo competitors from across the region.

In addition to major attractions, the fair will offer carnival rides, interactive games, live music, and exhibits highlighting farm animals, crafts, and local vendors. Fairgoers can also enjoy a wide selection of food, such as corn dogs, funnel cakes, and other treats.

For 80 years, the Four States Fair & Rodeo has been a Texarkana tradition, bringing together communities from Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma for entertainment, competition, and cultural celebration. This year’s event is expected to draw thousands of visitors.

General admission is $5 to $10, with separate tickets required for the rodeo, Monster Truck Mash, and Demolition Derby. Tickets can be purchased online at fourstatesfair.com or at the fairgrounds.

An Insight into Software Engineering

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Cadarius Williams is a senior at Texas A & M University-Texarkana who aspires to be a Software Engineer. Beforehand, he will study to gain interview experience and build connections for his career in computer science. The experiences for him at the University are content because the campus holds decent infrastructure along with more connection between the faculty and students than some universities. As Cadarius says, “You are not just a number, you are a name.”

Software Engineering involves building functional operating systems for technical devices such as laptops and cellphones. The evolution of this occupation has come a long way. The ideas of this profession started with the invention of massively scaled computers. After a long measure of time,designs expanded into advanced systems now accessible as small handheld devices. Furthermore, the progression of time has allowed ideas that were limited in the past to advance with extensive inspection and development of application frameworks.

In further discussion, technology such as robotics and Artificial Intelligence must be examined in simulation before further progress. Without the human effort or observation of technology such as A.I., the newest systems will not perform correctly. Because of Williams’ determination to be a software engineer, advanced technology is further acclaimed. It is astonishing that more students like him will manage applications in addition to creating them in the future.

Big Day of Thanks

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Have you ever considered giving back to your community? Since 1982, the Texas A&M community in College Station, Texas has hosted what they call “The Big Event,” a volunteering effort that aims to lend a hand to a community that supports the university each and every day. Some efforts include raking yards, cleaning streets, visiting nursing homes, walking dogs, and so much more.

            In April of 2017, Texas A&M University – Texarkana (TAMUT) hosted its very own first annual Big Event with the tagline – Eagle Pride City Wide. The introductory event provided over 200 volunteers that clocked almost 1,000 hours of community service. This year’s Big Event is scheduled for April 9, 2022.

            Registration is now open to current, former, and future students, faculty, alumni, student family members, and community members not affiliated with TAMUT. If you would like more information on The Big Event, or want to sign up to volunteer, or have a project in mind for the TAMUT community, please visit The Big Event.

Ice, Ice, Maybe

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Thursday, February 3rd, the city of Texarkana was expecting freezing rain and heavy snow. In preparation, the city covered roads and bridges with brine. Residents’ stocked food pantries with water and essentials. Most schools or businesses closed until further notice. “Out of an abundance of caution the Texas A&M University campus will be closed,” John Bunch, Tamut Communications Manager, said. Everyone hunkered down isolated, in their homes or dorms, and prepared for the worst. 

Texarkana was prepared and was due to what happened around this time last year. February 2021 was a chilling experience for Texans. Heavy snow obstructed many businesses and slippery ice made roads hazardous. Most people were trapped in their homes. In some severe cases, the power would go out or pipes inside the home would burst due to lack of insulation. 8 million people were under a boil water notice. Countless families would be without central heating or running water. Since most wouldn’t be able to go out they wouldn’t be able to buy groceries or drinkable water. The winter storm that occurred last year resulted in the deaths of 58 people. In Texas alone, there were at least 30 reported deaths.

However, all that happened was very cold rain. Was Texarkana prepared this year? Absolutely. It demonstrated the common phrase “It’s better to be safe than sorry.” Texarkana showed that it cares for its residents and is equipped for anything the weather has to offer. 

Texarkana Selected to Participate In DHS Collegiate End Violence Challenge

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Texarkana is one of a select group of schools throughout the country invited to participate this spring term in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Collegiate End Violence Challenge. DHS exists to promote end violence and terrorism and to unify. Students in the Marketing Promotions class have created an in-class working marketing agency. Eagle ISite, responsible for researching, implementing, and evaluating an integrated marketing campaign aimed at educating and informing their local campus about the benefits of unifying our campus to end violence and terrorism. Each participating campus will be competing for the chance to present their creative ideas to industry leaders from DHS at the terms conclusion.  

As part of the DHS Collegiate End Violence Challenge, students from Texas A&M – Texarkana have a rare opportunity to put their education to work in the real world for a national organization. Students will create and implement an integrated marketing campaign for their client, using research surveys and other tools to learn more about DHS’s target audiences. After the students have analyzed their research findings, they will then create and implement their strategy to raise awareness of the benefits of unifying students against violence and terrorism. DHS trains how to collect, analyze threats, share information and this project would work in tandem with students. Students will receive a $2,000 budget to help them bring their plans to life. At the end of the term, students will measure their success through follow-up research and give a formal presentation to the client summarizing their campaign and results. 

“This is a project that allows us to put our knowledge into a real-life experience.” said Jan Johnson, the student agency co-leader. 

The Eagleisite team will host a table this Saturday, April 24th, at 1pm at Bramlett Field at Spring Lake Park. There will be giveaways and snacks will be provided. Watch for more information about the DHS Collegiate End Violence Challenge at Texas A&M- Texarkana on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter. For further inquiries regarding the Texas A&M – Texarkana project, please contact Dina Calhoun, the Public Relations department head, at 903-794.6201 or pr.eagleisite@gmail.com. 

About the Department of Homeland Security: (DHS) exists to promote.  The Department of Homeland Security has a vital mission: to secure the nation from the many threats we face. This requires the dedication of more than 240,000 employees in jobs that range from aviation and border security to emergency response, from cybersecurity analyst to chemical facility inspector. Our duties are wide-ranging, and our goal is clear – keeping America safe. Find out more at www.dhs.org.

About EdVenture Partners: EdVentures Partners is an organization dedicated to developing innovative industry-education partnerships programs. The objective of such programs is to provide hands-on, real-world experience to students in tandem with providing marketing solutions and recruiting access at colleges and universities to clients. EdVentures Partners has designed and managed programs at over 1,000 campuses in North America and internationally. Find out more at www.edventurepartners.com.

A Down-home Holiday with TexRep

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The Holiday season is upon us once again. Christmas parties, tree lighting ceremonies, Santa Meet-n-Greets, festivals, craft fairs, fantastic light displays, and other festivities abound. These activities are treasured traditions for many. Whether we do them with family, friends, or coworkers, traditions can be a wonderful thing. They are a great way to make memories, and bring people closer together. However, it can be nice to step outside of tradition and try something new. If you and yours are looking for something new this year, look no further! This weekend, TexRep will bring Greater Tuna back to Texarkana for A Tuna Christmas.

Michael Cooper (L) and Christopher Polson (R) in TexRep’s 2011 production of Greater Tuna.

(Photo taken from TexRep’s online production archives)

Greater Tuna is the first play in a series of four comedies by Jason Williams, Joe Sears, and Ed Howard. One of the things that make these plays so humorous is that the entire cast of twenty characters, of all ages and genders, are played by just two men. Michael Cooper and Christopher Polson starred in the Texarkana Repertory Company‘s production of Greater Tuna in 2011. These masters of costume quick-changes will once again take us back to Tuna, Texas to reprise their roles and introduce new characters in A Tuna Christmas. Much like Texarkana, there is always something going on in Tuna. The big to-do is the town’s annual Christmas Yard Display Contest. The contest soon comes under attack from the “Christmas Phantom”, a vandal who is out to shake up the competition. This and various other hilarious subplots make this a show a real knee-slapper.

In addition to playing over twenty-four roles, Cooper and Polson also double as TexRep’s artistic director and set designer (respectively). This show is incredibly challenging for many reasons, but if anyone can handle it, this dynamic duo can. However, they aren’t tackling this monster alone. It truly takes a village to put on a production like this, and a village they have! A crew of nine assist the pair in lightning-quick costume changes, moving set pieces, running lights, operating the soundboard, and wrangling the six different Christmas trees used in the show. In addition to its impressive role-to-cast-size ratio, this show is also unique in that the crew gets to bow at curtain call with the actors, which is only fitting since it would be impossible without them. As previously mentioned, one of the things that lend to this play’s crazy energy is the outrageous number (and short duration) of costume changes. While each crew members serves multiple purposes, the bulk of their work is helping the actors change their costumes. Cooper says that, while he isn’t sure exactly how many changes there are, he is certain it is upwards of fifty. Each actor plays twelve roles apiece, he explained, which makes some of the costume changes almost instant. In fact, there are some scenes that require an actor to exit as one character and then immediately reenter as completely different character. There are also multiple scenes in which one of the actors plays a single role, while the other plays as many as five characters over the course of a single scene. Naturally, some changes are more difficult than others. Cooper says that some of the most difficult changes to pull off are the female characters. “[They] tend to have more pieces, from wigs to shoes to garments to underwear,” he continued, “It’s all an adventure.”

In a typical season, which runs from May to February, TexRep does four full plays and a Drama Camp Showcase. A Tuna Christmas is a bonus show that was added outside of the regular season as a special fundraiser for TexRep. It is also special in that the production staff (those who design and direct the show) are donating their services for free. One might wonder why Cooper and Polson would ever subject themselves to this insanity again, but the answer is simple — Everyone enjoys it. When asked why this particular show was chosen for this slot, Cooper said, “Chris and I did Greater Tuna some years ago and it was received very well. People have mentioned that they would enjoy seeing it, or something of its ilk, again.” He added that the show is both fun and season-relevant. If you have never seen Greater Tuna, don’t worry! All characters are introduced or reintroduced, so you’ll feel right at home. If you have seen it, you’ll be delighted to know that — according to Cooper —A Tuna Christmas is even funnier than the first one.

If you’re still struggling to find a present for everyone on your list, the gift of laughter is one-size-fits-all (and they won’t want to return it). Whether you are returning to Tuna or visiting for the first time, this wild ride is a trip you won’t soon forget! Y’all come on out, and join the Texarkana Repertory Company for their production of A Tuna Christmas, ya hear?

Performances of A Tuna Christmas will be:

Thursday, December 12 7:30 p.m
Friday, December 13 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 14 2:00 p.m. / 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, December 15 2:00 p.m. / 7:30 p.m.

(The theatre doors will open thirty minutes prior to showtime.)

Admission prices are as follows:

General $15
Senior (55+)$12
Student (Child up to 18)$12
Directions
Tickets

If you are interested in supporting your local theatre, please consider a sponsorship, a membership, or simply attending a show. If you are interested in supporting TexRep in a more hands-on capacity, they are always looking for extra hands, whether it be auditioning/performing, ushering for performances, working backstage/in the booth, or helping with set construction.

For information, or questions, please visit TexRep online. You can also connect with them on Facebook, or follow them on Instagram.

As set designer Chris Polson always says, “See you at the theatre!”

More Than Just Books

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This is the time of the year when everyone is looking for something special for a family member or a friend. How about trying Books-A-Million? They sell lots of books, but did you know they offer a variety of other things. They have an enormous number of gifts; coffee mugs, games, inspirational items, toys, candles, clothing wear, collectible items, magazines, comic books, and of course lots of books. There is an array of different assortments you are sure to find for that special someone. If you cannot find anything in the store, try checking out their website.

If you do not know what to get, they offer gift cards as well. If you have someone in your life that enjoys reading books, perhaps you could get them a membership card that offers 10% off anything they buy in the store. Get 40% off of Hardback Bestsellers and 20% off of featured items too.

There is a coffee shop within the store called Joe Muggs Coffee. During the holiday season, they are offering several specialty coffees. If you or someone you know loves playing games get together at Book-A-Million for an enjoyable time playing with friends and make new friends. Some customers are already gathering to play the game Magic of the Gathering. If playing games is not your style, you can pick up a book and read it as you decide rather you want to purchase that book while enjoying a cup of coffee. You can use your gift cards and membership card when purchasing a drink or snack as well as using them on their website.

Looking to get a little extra cash for the holiday, Books-A-Million offers buyback books at their store. You can bring up to fifty books at a time of gently used books for cash during certain times. After the new year, they will be buying used DVDs and blue rays too. “If you need any help with buying back books just ask for me the ‘book broker’ and I will get you set up for cashback” a staff member said.  Some books they cannot take are dictionaries, bibles, textbooks, and dated books.

Need to study or have a group or club? Books-A-Million loves to have groups come into their store to gather. “Study groups are usually our regular customers, especially Nursing Majors. Some of our regular customers bring in their own mugs for an added discount.” Tiffany, who works at Joe Muggs Coffee said. Wi-Fi is available for students who need a different environment for studying or writing a paper for class.

Come check out Books-A-Million for that special someone or for yourself. You will find something for everyone on your list. Or maybe just come by and check out what all this store has to offer. You will be surprised by the many things they have in their store.

Membership fee:  $25.00 with any purchase.

Gift Cards:  Starting at $5.00 up to $500.00

Hours of Operation: Mon.-Thurs. 8am-10pm; Fri. – Sat. 8am-12am; Sun. 9am-9pm

Buy Back Book Hours:  Sunday-Thursday 12:00 pm- 6:00 pm.

TXK Entertainment District Now Open

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Good things come to those who wait. The Entertainment District in downtown Texarkana is now officially open. Thanks to the hard work of the Texarkana, Arkansas Planning Commission, it opened to the public on October 16, 2019, beginning with a toast by locals at Hopkins Icehouse.

The district spans across a fourteen-block area of downtown Texarkana. The roads are marked with green stripes to distinguish the boundaries, and signs are posted with hours of operation at the corners of the district. Anyone 21 and over can now walk around outside with an open container of alcohol, as long as it is purchased at a downtown establishment. No underage drinking will be allowed.

The bars and restaurants included in the district include Hopkins Icehouse, Zapata’s, Broadway Sports Bar and Billiards, Verona’s Restaurant and Wine Bar, and The Flying Crow. District hours are Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to midnight.

This new district is an exciting addition to downtown Texarkana, Arkansas and is expected to draw guests from surrounding areas. The city’s goal is to bring more visitors and businesses to the downtown area.

This is just one more step the city is taking to revitalize downtown Texarkana. “Entertainment Districts have been known to spur economic growth,” says City of Texarkana, Arkansas City Manager Kenny Haskins. “The better businesses do, the better off we will be as a city.”

The ordinance was possible due to a new state law which allows cities with boundaries to designate areas for outdoor alcohol consumption. The city will provide trash cans and daily garbage pick up to keep downtown clean.

The Entertainment District has rules that will be enforced. No open containers can be carried out of liquor stores or taken into vehicles. No open container alcohol may be carried into any business, and no glass open containers are allowed.

Go on down and experience all that downtown Texarkana has to offer. As Adger Smith of the Planning Commission pointed out, “This is the culmination of years of gradual work by the Planning Commission, it’s an evolution.”

Randy Sams’ Fundraisers in Full Swing

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If you frequently browse Eagle Eye, you may have seen an article that I recently posted about the Randy Sams’ Outreach Shelter (RSOS) in Texarkana. If you have not heard of them, they are a non-profit organization that specializes in providing aid to the homeless in our area. They provide shelter, housing, clothing, case management, health appointments, job training/search assistance, life skills classes, life-sustaining medication coverage, and transportation. They have been serving our community selflessly for over two decades, and they need our support. In fact, they need even more support than usual, as they were not awarded a very large grant (175k) that they needed to support their operation. Historically, they have been awarded this grant annually, so this is a significant loss. If you have never given to RSOS, please consider doing so this holiday season. In addition to accepting regular monetary/material donations, RSOS has two exciting fundraisers happening now…

  • RSOS’ Be The Blessing Job Training is a bakery program that employs homeless or formerly homeless people and teaches them commercial kitchen/baking skills. They are currently taking orders for Christmas cookies. Ranging from $15-$20 per dozen, they offer chocolate chip, peanut butter, pecan praline, sugar cookies, or a mixed box. If a box isn’t enough, they also offer a tray of four-dozen cookies for $40. These tasty treats are sure to be a hit at your family gathering or Christmas party! Are you looking for a fun and yummy activity for the family? For $25, you can order Be The Blessing’s Santa Cookie Kit! Each kit comes with two icing bags, two sprinkle cups, and a dozen Santa-shaped sugar cookies that you can decorate yourself. Orders can be placed online now! You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram. By participating in this fundraiser, you are directly supporting local people who are acquiring the skills they need to get a job in the food-service industry. Giving back to the community, and having a delicious snack? It’s a win-win! (I actually ordered some immediately after I submitted this article!)
Wright (L), Brisco (R), and Arnold’s (B) original artwork for Hope for the Homeless TXK.
  • Looking for unique Christmas gift ideas? Look no further! RSOS’ kicked off a new annual art event this year called Hope for the Homeless TXK. The organization asked local artists Taylor Arnold, Nicole Brisco, and Joel Wright to interpret homelessness. Each artist created beautiful and touching original pieces which are being framed and raffled off on December 15th. If you are interested in entering for a chance to win one of these gorgeous creations, you can buy ten entries for $10, thirty entries for $25, or 75 entries $50, although you have the option to purchase as many entries as you wish. In addition to this raffle, prints of the paintings and t-shirts featuring Arnold and Wright’s designs are also for sale. All proceeds from this event go toward the Randy Sams’ Outreach Shelter. This fundraiser is an excellent chance to support both RSOS and our fabulous local artists.

If you would simply like to make a monetary donation, those are also welcome. Donors have the option to make a one time donation, or sign up to give monthly or annually. Besides physical or monetary donations, you can also donate you time. There are many ways to volunteer, such as hosting donation drives for shelter needs, or providing evening meals at the shelter. To volunteer your time or services, you can sign up online.

For more information on the Randy Sams’ Outreach Shelter and its programs, please visit them online or call 903-792-7024. You can also follow them on Facebook, and Twitter.