March 2 holds a important place in the heart of Texans, being both Sam Houston’s Birthday and Texas Independence Day. This year, the Huntsville community celebrating these milestones on March 1, with much preparation going into the day of celebration. But it was a particularly special day of celebration for me: It was my baptism as a Texan! I was born in Florida, but with a deep love for the Lone Star State and a current Texas resident, this event helped me make my Texas roots official.
Preparing for the Celebration
The Huntsville Lions Club is ever ready to beautify the community, and the LEAP Ambassadors are always prepared to help the Huntsville Lions Club. On holidays and other special days, the Lions Club puts out flags alongside the city streets, and, of course, Sam Houston’s Birthday is a special day in Huntsville!
So, at 6:15am, the Lions Club as well as Chrissy Biello, Olivia Discon, Jack Hammock, Olivia McCaughan, and Professor Yawn arrived bright and early to the Walker County Courthouse, where they placed Texas flags along the path of those engaged in “March 2 the Grave.”
It was a great way to lay the groundwork for what would become a fun filled, Tex-ified, day.
Gibbs-Powell Home
As part of the festivities, Olivia and Chrissy paid a visit to the beautiful and historic Gibbs-Powell Home, which hosted a brief coffee reception before the March 2 the Grave tradition.
Gibbs-Powell House in Spring (Photo by Dena Shipley)
We had the opportunity to explore the carefully preserved interior and admire some fine artifacts–such as a stereoscope, a grand piano, and the Gibbs and Powell family Bibles.
We even had a brief chance to sneak a peek upstairs, which once housed college students—arguably one of the best dormitories one could imagine!
Though our visit was short, it was an excellent start to the day, allowing us to deepen our understanding of Texas history through this incredible site in our community.
March 2 the Grave
The day continued with a solemn and patriotic march from the Old Main Pit on the Sam Houston State University campus to the Oakwood Cemetery. This is a tradition that has been around a very long time…
The roads, buildings, and attire have changed over the years, but the tradition remains.
It was a great way to bring different aspects of the community together…
…while also metaphorically connecting the town and gown…
Grave-Site Ceremony
Following the march, the community comes together at Sam Houston’s grave, in a ceremony that begins with the Texas and United States’ pledges.
The ceremony began with a warm welcome from community leaders, including:
Walker County Historical Commission Chair: Scott Collier
City of Huntsville Mayor: Russell Humphrey
County Judge (Walker County): Colt Christian
Vice-President of University Advancement: Matt Bethea
Hello Huntsville Host: Rob Hipp
Sam Houston Descendant: Lindsey Hughes
This celebration highlighted the enduring spirit of Texas and its people. Their words resonated with pride for Texas and Sam Houston’s historical significance.
One of the most touching moments came when Lindsey Hughes, a descendant of Sam Houston, discussed what it means to be a Texan. Hearing the words of someone with such a personal connection to the great Texas hero added a personal layer of meaning to the celebration, a connection that was particularly emphatic when she closed with the words, “If you want something done, ask a Texan.”
Long-time resident Tom Rogers then provided the audience a fascinating account of the event’s history, reminding us all why we gather each year to honor Sam Houston and Texas’ Independence in what is likely the oldest cultural tradition in Huntsville.
A Texas Baptism
The highlight of the day, at least for me and 80 others, was being baptized a Texan. This event is a unique and cherished tradition in the heart of Huntsville, with many people traveling from all around Texas to get baptized. For me, being “baptized as a Texan” was the culmination of years of admiration and a deep-seated feeling that Texas was truly my home. The baptism consisted of water sprinkled across my forehead by Liz Patton (whose late husband, James Patton, was a long-time County Clerk for Walker County and the unofficial historian of the County), symbolically washing away my out-of-state origins and christening me as a true Texan. Although I was born in Florida, my heart has always belonged to Texas, and now I have the certificate to prove it!
This event does a wonderful job of honoring the legacy of Sam Houston. Houston’s influence on the state of Texas is immeasurable, and his life exemplifies the spirit of Texas: bold, independent, and dedicated to freedom.
The LEAP Ambassadors enjoyed a six-day tour of the East Coast as part of their “Democracy Tour.” During this tour, the students had a chance to visit more than half a dozen art museums, James Beard award winning restaurants, and many historic sites. What follows is their favorites from their experiences.
Favorite Restaurants:
Lehja’s in Richmond received the most votes, with all of the food receiving high marks from the diners. The James Beard nominations appear justified!
Casa Mexico in Philadelphia was a hit among the students, with the barbacoa being particularly popular. This was an altogether pleasant dining experience in an interesting and busy neighborhood in Philadelphia. Chef Christina Martinez was named “Best Chef” in the mid-Atlantic region in 2022 by the James Beard Foundation.
Metzger’s Bar and Butchery was perhaps the most interesting and innovative of the restaurants we visited. While the pork schnitzel was the favorite entree, the “squash sundae,” was the favorite dessert and the biggest surprise.
Ambassadors also found favorites in Katz’s Deli in New York, a restaurant world-famous for its pastrami.
And, of course, we also enjoyed Jim’s South St., which specializes in Philly Cheesesteaks.
FavoriteArt Museum: Olivia and Chrissy visited four art museums in New York, and they split on their favorite, with Chrissy favoring The Whitney…
…while Olivia resisted picking a favorite and, instead, picked a top two: The Met and MOMA. She did, however, have a favorite: The Lovers.
Although smaller and less heralded than its New York and Philadelphia counterparts, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts was one of the clear favorites among the group.
The favorites of the group reflected the diversity of the art in the Museum’s collection.
Of course, the most famous paintings among the NY, Philadelphia, and VA museums were also popular among the Ambassadors.
Finally, the group also greatly enjoyed seeing Philadelphia City Hall, the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Virginia Capitol Building. For Cinthia, Olivia, and Michelle, it marked the third–the complete collection–of extant Jefferson designs in the world.
While the Ambassadors are always happy to get back to Huntsville and SHSU (or, this semester, Austin and SHSU), they left the east coast with a lot of memories, new-found knowledge, and much nostalgia.
This was–we thought–our last day, and we were determined to enjoy it! In that spirit, we had planned out a day of history and art, with a tour of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Capitol, the Old City Hall, the Edgar Allan Poe Museum, and some interesting restaurants.
Lehja Indian Restaurant
Saara Maknojia
Keeping our streak alive of eating at (affordable) James Beard nominated restaurants, LEAP Ambassadors stopped by Lehja, a contemporary take on Indian food. Indian food is not a foreign concept for the Ambassadors so knowing the classics we ordered a plate of aloo (potato) samosas.
For a change we also experienced a new dish, as our server recommended the Chef’s Daily Selection, Chaat Du Jou. The chaat consisted of flashed fried curry leaves with various species, topped with a tangy tamarind yogurt chutney, paired with refreshing pomegranate seeds. Although both appetizers were tasty, the consensus favored the Chaat Du Jou!
Olivia, being the biryani connoisseur, ordered the classic chicken biryani, which is additionally paired with raita, a spiced yogurt sauce.
Bringing out the contemporary aspect of Lehja, Cinthia and Michelle ordered a plate of Tandoori Chicken Tikka. Traditionally, chicken thighs are marinated in yogurt with various tandoori spiced to bring out a smoked flavor when grilled. Lehja, however uses chicken breasts and serves with a platter of grilled market vegetables. To my surprise Cinthia, who is not the biggest fan of spicy food enjoyed the chicken tikka without breaking a sweat.
The Regional Classics for Lehja’s include various curry dishes. I found the Kofta Chaman Dilkhush appetizing, mainly because the term “Dilkhush” refers to a happy heart and what better way to leave a restaurant than with a happy heart! The vegetable kofta’s in this dish were perfectly fried with a soft potato filling, complementing the cashew-tomato curry base. Kicking the spice level up a notch, I found spice level three to best for this hearty meal.
Professor Yawn and Stephanie also tried a Regional Classic dish, the spicy garlic, ginger, and chilly based curry included tender goat meat which fell right off the bone. Eating the meal in a traditional Indian fashion way, we shared our entrees with each other to fully taste the flavor spectrum and enjoy the company of one another.
Eating Indian food always makes me personally happy, but it is always a much better experience when those around you have the willingness to try new foods to enhance their understanding of cultures, apart from theirs. Lehja’s serves its purpose as a contemporary Indian restaurant but also keeps its traditional roots with the hospitality given to us during our visit. We are grateful to have a shared experience at yet another James Beard nominated restaurant.
Virginia State Capitol Building
by Saara Maknojia
Marking off yet another Capitol building, LEAP Ambassadors spent the afternoon touring the Virginia State Capitol. Rich with history, the Virginia Capitol reflects the vision of Thomas Jefferson, who was the primary architect for the structure.
Our tour guide, Mrs. Snellings, took us through the Museum, showcasing the wonderful architecture, functions, and art. In the Rotunda, is a Jean-Antoine Houdon sculpture of George Washington.
This sculpture is considered the best likeness of Washington. Houdon took a plaster cast of the first President’s face and exact measurements of his body–no other statue of Washington reflects this level of detail.
We had a chance to peek into the House Chambers…
…and we also had a chance to visit, and spend more time in, the Old House Chambers, the largest room in the structure.
The center of the room features a ten-pound mace, made from solid silver with a 24-karat gold finish. Also gracing the room are busts of Chief Justice John Marshall and Patrick Henry, both of whom served in the VA House of Delegates.
On the opposite side of the room out of reach of our cameras, are busts of Sam Houston (who was born in Virginia) and Cyrus Hall McCormick (born in the same county as Sam Houston!).
This room also hosted the 1807 trial of Aron Burr, who was charged with treason. As Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court, John Marshall returned to the building in which he once served as Representative, and he presided over the trial.
Walking into the Old Senate Chambers, we noticed many artworks on the walls. One piece that Mrs. Snellings highlighted was a painting of Pocahontas.
She explained the true history behind her story, correcting the common myth that Pocahontas was married to Captain John Smith (also pictured in the room).
In fact, she was married to John Rolfe, a tobacco planter.
Next, Mrs. Snellings directed our attention to the back of the room, where she pointed at a painting by Griffith Bailey Coale. The painting depicted three ships: the Susan Constant, the Godspeed, and the Discovery. Mrs. Snellings explained that this scene represented the arrival of these ships in 1607, marking the beginning of the first permanent English settlement in America at Jamestown, Virginia. She pointed out the flags atop the ships, noting that they symbolized the United Kingdom.
The largest painting in the room, by Eugene Louis Lami titled Storming a Redoubt at Yorktown captures the Battle of Yorktown 1781, as British Troops approach the American forces. Mrs. Snellings pointed to a small figure in the painting and asked if we had any guesses for who it might be. After waiting for a response, she exclaimed with excitement, “It’s General George Washington!”
The architectural features of the building were beautiful, from the central rotunda…
…and the stairwell, which at one time, housed a steam-powered elevator.
Although our time at the Capitol was brief, we left with a valuable history lesson about the foundations of American democracy and the fight for independence! We would like to thank our tour guide, Mrs. Snellings, for providing a fantastic tour and sharing insights that many of us had not known before.
Old City Hall
Also on the Capitol Square–with the Capitol and Executive Mansion–is the old City Hall, a Gothic Revival Structure built in 1894.
For more than seven centuries, it housed city offices and courts, but as early as the 1920s, there were calls to tear down this beautiful structure and replace it with a more modern city hall. These calls were partially heeded in the 1970s, when a new City Hall was built, but, thankfully, the Historic Richmond Foundation led efforts to save it. The structure re-opened in the 1980s and in the 2010s, the building was restored to its original look–a restoration that required approval from the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, Architecture Review Board, and Capitol Square Preservation Council.
At 30,000 square feet, it remains the largest granite building in Richmond, while also being the city’s finest example of Gothic architecture.
It was designed by architect Elijah Myers, who also designed the TX Capitol building (where three of the LEAP Ambassadors currently work) and the Colorado Capitol Building (which two of the Ambassadors will visit in March), as well as the capitol buildings of Utah, Idaho, and Michigan.
Today, the structure is used for state offices, and only the first floor is accessible to visitors.
But even a restricted visit is worth it for the view of the impressive clock tower on the exterior of the building, the four-story atrium…
…detailed faux-graining of the bases of the Corinthian columns…
…and the exquisite detailing of the interior.
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
by Michelle Cardenas
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) offered an experience that was both exciting and full of discovery. Originally opened in 1936, the museum has continued to evolve, with a major renovation in 2010 and plans for further expansion to accommodate even more incredible works of art. The museum’s location carries historical significance as well, sitting on what was once a Confederate camp, adding another layer of depth to our visit.
Instead of our usual self-guided exploration, we opted for a highlights tour, which provided an excellent overview of the museum’s diverse collection. Before even stepping inside, we were captivated by the stunning outdoor sculptures by renowned artists such as Dale Chihuly and Henry Moore, which set the tone for what was to come.
One of the standout sections for me was the American Art collection, where I was particularly drawn to Moonlight in Yosemite by Albert Bierstadt. Seeing one of his pieces with muted colors–almost black and white in places–was unexpected and fascinating, offering a different perspective on his usual style.
Another highlight was the Fabergé collection, featuring beautifully intricate Easter eggs that showcased incredible craftsmanship and history.
As we continued through the museum, we encountered works by well-known artists such as John Roberts, Kehinde Wiley, Ellsworth Kelly, Andy Warhol, Van Gogh, Degas, and Monet. Recognizing these names and seeing their masterpieces up close is incredibly rewarding—especially when I think back to when I first started and hardly knew any artists at all.
Each of us found pieces that resonated on a personal level. Cinthia was drawn to Edward Hopper’s House at Dusk, appreciating its quiet and reflective atmosphere. Olivia enjoyed the works of Andrew Wyeth, admiring his detailed and emotional portrayals.
Saara was captivated by Edwin Lord Weeks’ The Hour of Prayer at Moti Masjid…
…which stood out due to its rich colors and cultural depth. Chrissy’s favorite was John Singer Sargent’s The Sketchers, which impressed her with its lively and spontaneous feel.
Visiting museums like the VMFA is always a rewarding experience. No matter how many we explore, there’s always something new to learn and appreciate. Each visit offers a chance to see the world through different perspectives, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to continue discovering and growing through art.
The Poe Museum
by Chrissy Biello
Mystery, Madness, and Mayhem, three words that many would use to describe Edgar Allan Poe. Nevermore, that might not be the full story….
Edgar Allan Poe is known by many as an American short story writer and poet. His themes largely center around darkness, such as death, despair, and fear. He is widely credited with pioneering the modern detective story and significantly contributing to the emerging genre of science fiction.
Today, we had the chance to visit his home in Virginia, where we learned much about him. The museum began on a particularly somber note, discussing how his mother passed away when Poe was only two years old, leaving him orphaned.
Upon seeing a coffin, Olivia could not resist the urge to climb in. Surprisingly, it fit her perfectly, not to mention befitting her increasingly pallid complexion!
To give you some context, this coffin was placed here to symbolize the intense fear people in Poe’s era had of being buried alive. Due to this widespread anxiety, special coffins were designed with a mechanism that allowed the occupant to ring a bell from inside to call for help. However, when Olivia got inside, she chose not to ring the bell…
One aspect of the exhibit that I found especially intriguing was the pocket watch that Poe heard while writing “The Tell-Tale Heart.” I have always found this short story engaging and mysterious, as I tend to be drawn to darker subjects.
And, there has been considerable debate surrounding whether Poe was the artist of a watercolor painting or simply the gifter. The painting, which depicts a weeping woman, is quite interesting to observe. I appreciated the detailed wrinkles in her dress and the overall droopy appearance of the painting.
Another fascinating mystery in the museum concerns Poe’s hair. After his death, locks of his hair were cut from his head. Although the cause of his death remains a mystery, many have attempted to solve it. In 2002, a sample of his hair was analyzed, revealing the presence of many heavy metals, which were believed to have contributed to his death.
The museum also shed light on Poe’s posthumous reputation, largely shaped by his adversary, Rufus Griswold. Griswold painted Poe as a madman and drunkard in a posthumous biography. Ironically, this portrayal fueled Poe’s fame, but as mentioned earlier, we learned that Poe may not have been as crazy as everyone believed, leaving his legacy steeped in mystery and intrigue.
Before leaving the museum, we visited an upstairs section of the house featuring paintings. One painting, in particular, was quite amusing. It was titled Vincent Van Poe by Chris King and depicted Starry Night in the background, with Poe, a black cat, and a raven in the foreground.
As a fan of Poe, I thoroughly enjoyed the museum, especially since it was Poe’s actual home. It was also delightful to see a black cat, aptly named Edgar, moving around the building, setting the perfect atmosphere for reading and learning about Poe!
Metzger Bar and Butchery
For our last planned dinner of the trip, we opted for Metzger Bar and Butchery, whose chef, Brittany Anderson, is a two-time James Beard semi-finalist.
We started the evening with a recommendation of our server, the Charred Cabbage, whose menu description was enigmatic: “Miso Bagna Cauda, Cured Egg, Gremolata, Calabrian Chili.” Whatever it was, it was great! We also had a bread baked in house (“cottage-cheese rolls”), which came with house-made butter adorned with radish slices.
Three of our party went with the Pork Schnitzel, and the general consensus was that this was the best dish available. But we also tried the Chicken and the Steak, and all of it was excellent.
Although we were full, we were willingly talked into dessert, which included an Olive Oil Cake, the Heirloom Corn Funnel Cake, and a Honeynut Squash Sundae. The latter dessert made us pause–a squash sundae? But it was the favorite of the group!
It was a rich and fulfilling end to a busy and rewarding day.
On Tuesday, September 24, Texas Ranger Maurice Cook visited students at Sam Houston State University to offer a special presentation about the 1974 Huntsville Prison Siege and different aspects of his career—which involves service in Vietnam, being a police officer, working as a State Trooper, going to law school and passing the bar (at the age of 60), teaching at a community college, and, for the past four years, holding the office of Sheriff (Bastrop County).
But it was his time as a Ranger that occupied most of our time with him, particularly his experience in the 1974 Huntsville Prison Siege, which at that time, was the longest prison siege in history.
He began by noting that he had only been a Ranger for less than a year…
…and he got the call to come to the Huntsville Unit, with his bulletproof vest.
He offered vivid and sometimes humorous descriptions of a Carrasco associate, a trustee inmate, who was able to work with Carrasco’s wife to smuggle in guns and ammunition—in peach cans!
Ranger Cook also did a good job of describing the Carrasco “fortress,” which was the prison library, fortified with tables, books, and other impediments—while also “imprisoning” eleven hostages.
While law-enforcement had the building surrounded, there was only way in and one way out, so it would have been very difficult to mount a full-frontal offensive.
They did set up dynamite on the rear wall, and planned to use it if Carrasco began torturing or killing hostages.
Carrasco was concerned about this, and he would assign his compadres to crawl in the rafters and look through the vents—but in doing so, the lookouts would scare away pigeons, who roosted on the building’s eaves. This allowed law-enforcement to know a little about what was happening inside the “fortress.”
Carrasco also insisted on using his (Hispanic) lawyer as a mediator, because he did not trust the non-Hispanic law-enforcement officials. While law-enforcement officials did negotiate, they did so strategically, not providing anything that could be too damaging.
They did provide helmets, but they had weakened the metal in the temple area so that bullets could pass through the steel; and they provided a getaway car, but they messed with the gas gauge such that it appeared full, while being nearly empty. One of the more interesting show-and-tell items was a book that stopped a bullet during the siege, which Ranger Cook had on hand.
Ranger Cook also noted, during the Q&A period, that the siege brought about changes in law enforcement procedures, particularly with securing the crime scene. The lack of protocol led to extensive court battles. The siege also led to a dedicated SWAT team, in place for future encounters of this type.
Toward the end of the discussion, he shared valuable insights about life and success, highlighting my favorite quote: “Shoot for as high as you can.,” and he ended the event with a book-signing.
We would like to extend a special thank you to Ranger Maurice Cook and Marcus Cook for taking the time to meet and enlighten us about the 1974 Huntsville Prison Siege, as well as sharing a bit of history about Ranger Cook’s life and law enforcement career!
On our second day in Little Rock, AR, we hoped to continue the momentum set on our busy first day. With this in mind, we set out to tackle a new restaurant or two, the Clinton Presidential Library, the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, and to kick off the Six Bridges Book Festival. We did all we set out today–and more!
ClintonPresidentialLibraryandMuseum
by Olivia Discon
Continuing our exploration into history, politics, and culture, we had the opportunity to visit the Clinton Presidential Library and Museum. Before stepping inside, we took a moment to explore the grounds, which are beautifully landscaped and situated along the Arkansas River. The glass-and-steel building, designed to resemble a “bridge to the future,” offers a modern backdrop that complements the historical significance of the museum.
The visit kicked off with a short film detailing Bill Clinton’s early life and career. The film highlighted Clinton’s journey from a small-town boy in Hope, Arkansas, to his time at Georgetown, and later his entry into politics. One of the most compelling parts was hearing about how he navigated the turbulent waters of the 1992 election, ultimately becoming the 42nd president of the United States. After the film, we ventured into the heart of the museum: the comprehensive overview of Clinton’s two terms in office. Each section of the exhibit is organized by year, giving us a look at the major events that defined his presidency.
From intense policy battles to personal moments, it was a well-rounded portrait of his time in office.
One feature I enjoyed was the binders of Clinton’s daily schedules for every single day—ranging from meetings with world leaders to a quick jog!
Among the many highlights was learning about President Clinton’s key reforms. His policies on healthcare, particularly insurance and medical leave, were revolutionary for their time, affecting millions of Americans. We also spent time on his efforts to address the federal budget deficit, an emphasis throughout his presidency that has shaped many political conversations since. It’s easy to focus on President Clinton’s charm and charisma, but this visit reminded us of his policy legacy as well.
Oh, and it’s hard not to mention his other legacy—though the museum delicately handled his impeachment proceedings.
A special moment for us was the section on the Little Rock Nine.
The connection to our visit the previous day was clear, tying civil rights struggles from the 1950s to the ongoing political landscape Clinton navigated during his presidency. It felt like a seamless link between the past and present struggles for equality and justice.
We also thoroughly enjoyed the art on display. There was a small Frank Lloyd Wright statue of a house that had been gifted to Hillary Clinton, a beautiful example of his architectural style in miniature form.
We also saw a stunning Dale Chihuly glass sculpture…
The Oval Office replica was another highlight, showcasing Clinton’s presidential style.
We saw sculptures by Remington and Rodin and a painting by Childe Hassam.
An unexpected surprise was a Norman Rockwell painting that we didn’t immediately recognize.
All in all, our visit to the Clinton Library was both educational and enjoyable. It gave us a new perspective on President Clinton’s legacy on American history.
ATripto theArkansasMuseumof Fine Arts
Saara Maknojia
Walking through a stunning collection of artworks at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (AMFA) was the perfect way to spend our afternoon.
Olivia and I were particularly excited to see the new Art Nouveau exhibit, so we headed straight for it upon arrival.
We were greeted with a beautifully curated selection of vases, jewelry, woodwork, and glass sculptures from the 19th century. What stood out to me the most was the Tiffany & Co. collection, renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and iconic designs. The intricate detail and elegance of the pieces left a lasting impression.
Since this was our first time at an art museum together, we took the opportunity to share our thoughts on various artworks. As we walked through the galleries, passing by pieces from prominent artists like Gustav Klimt, Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, and Diego Rivera, we discussed our interpretations of what each artist intended to convey, and we watched others contemplating similar questions.
It was stimulating to exchange perspectives and delve into the emotions and possible stories behind these pieces.
One painting that captivated us both was Homage to Alberti by Terrance Corbin. We found ourselves returning to it multiple times. The artwork’s focus on landscape, combined with its use of geometric shapes and lines to create illusions of depth, was intriguing. Although abstract landscapes aren’t typically my preferred style, this particular piece drew me in with its complexity and the many ways it could be interpreted, making it one of my favorites from the museum.
Olivia, on the other hand, was fascinated by Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s Three Partridges, an impressionist work that spoke to her appreciation for soft brushwork and natural themes in art.
We ended our visit on an unexpected yet delightful note. David Warren, the Chair of the museum’s art school, graciously gave us a spontaneous tour of the art studio and pottery workshop. His warm hospitality reminded us of the spirit of the Arkansas Traveler—welcoming, generous, and always eager to share his knowledge and passion for art.
It was a fitting end to a day spent appreciating the beauty and culture on display at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, and we left feeling both inspired and grateful for the experience.
Bound to Books: The Six Bridges Book Festival Kickoff
Owing to some difficulty with our schedule and the timing of the Texas Book Festival, we looked to Little Rock and the Six Bridges Book Festival–and we are glad we did! The Six Bridges Book Festival takes place over a longer period than the Texas Book Festival, and it is smaller. This, as we found out tonight, allowed for a more intimate and personal experience.
The Festival’s kickoff offered some finger foods and snacks; a photo booth, which was much fun; authors on hand, mixing with the crowds; karaoke; and, of course, books for sale.
We began by scouting the facility, the “Ron Robinson Theatre,” part of the Central Arkansas Library System (and the organizer of the festival). The two-story venue was attractive, with a particularly appealing theatre, which was hosting the karaoke. A talented set of spectators took turns at the microphone, and we enjoyed a few songs, before moving on to the next activity.
The next activity included the photo booth, which allowed us to continue the theme of money, one established during our tour of the Arkansas Treasury. Saara grabbed some Benjamins, a money bag, but drew the line at wearing a dollar-sign fishing hat.
We enjoyed the book selection, and we purchased a few before the authors’ supplies were fully depleted. We also played “spot-the-artist,” and we are pretty sure that we “saw” far more authors than were actually there.
But the event whetted our appetite for the next day’s sessions, when we would see Eli Cranor (“You Don’t Know Tough”), Boyce Upholt (“The Great River”), Garrard Conley (“Boy Erased”), Samuel Freedman (“Into the Bright Sunshine: Young Hubert Humphrey and the Fight for Civil Rights”), Randall Woods (“John Quincy Adams: A Man for the Whole People”), John Vercher (“Devil is Fine”), Brian Fairbanks (Willie, Waylon, and the Boys”), and Lana Williams, the latter of whom is a gardener and owner of Tender Gardener.
Wrapping Up
With small pangs of hunger reminding us to eat a full meal, we decided to visit Sterling Market. The restaurant might have been a Lana Wiliams fan, inasmuch as they emphasized ingredients from local farmers. The food was wonderful, and we can publicly vouch for the ricotta dip, the bearnaise sauce, the smoked chicken sandwich, and the mushrooms and dumplings.
It was another nice ending to our ongoing Arkansas adventure, meeting friendly locals, Arkansas authors, and experimenting with some wonderful Arkansas food!
In LEAP’s ongoing quest for experiential learning, Ambassadors set out for Little Rock, AR, where opportunities for education about Civil Rights, politics, history, cinema, art, and literature abound. And our first day was a big one…
A Visit to the Arkansas State Capitol
by Olivia Discon
Our first stop in Little Rock, Arkansas set the tone for an incredible trip filled with history, learning, and a deeper appreciation for the Natural State.
Naturally, we couldn’t visit without stopping at the Arkansas State Capitol…
…where Cheryl Augustine, who had guided LEAP students three years ago, once again took time out of her day to give us a tour that was both engaging and one to remember.
We began in the Governor’s Reception room, where we learned about the history of Arkansas, institutional traditions, and the current Governor (Sarah Huckabee-Sanders) and soaked in the beautiful room.
This was followed by one of the highlights of the tour, the Treasury Room, a space rich in history and, quite literally, in cash. With the help of Cheryl and Terry Steed…
…we had the chance to walk past the 12-ton vault door and even hold $600,000 in cold, hard cash.
While it was exciting to hold such a large sum, we learned the more practical side: the state loses $38,000 annually by displaying the cash instead of investing it. But this tradition connects Arkansans to their government in a tangible way.
The Treasury Room itself is stunning. Its ornate ceiling, restored with 17 different shades of green, is as much a part of the Capitol’s history as the vault itself. Adding to the room’s charm, they displayed calculator machines from over 100 years ago…
…and everything down to the floors has been carefully preserved since its inception…
…with numerous artifacts on hand for viewing pleasure.
While in the vault, we also had the chance to meet Stephen Bright, Chief of Staff to State Treasurer Mark Lowery.
He shared insights into the Arkansas legislature and gifted us two challenge coins, one from Treasurer Lowery and another in memory of the late Larry Walther. These coins, rooted in military tradition, are exchanged as symbols of respect and accomplishment, which we were very grateful to receive.
The Arkansas State Capitol is an impressive building, with its original design by George R. Mann and later finished with the help of Cass Gilbert, the same architect behind the U.S. Supreme Court.
It took from 1899 to 1915 to complete, and you can really see the effort that went into every detail. The exterior is made from Limestone (from Batesville, AR), the floors and walls are made from Vermont marble, the grand staircases are Alabama marble, and the columns are from Colorado marble, all of which were beautiful!
We explored both the House and Senate chambers, each equally impressive. Arkansas has 100 representatives…
…and 35 senators, with legislative sessions lasting 60 days. The grandeur of the Capitol is undeniable, but it’s the details—the stained glass ceilings, the drapery, and even the pigskin door—that really make the building stand out.
Our tour, which lasted an impressive 2.5 hours, flew by thanks to Cheryl’s knowledge and enthusiasm.
We ended our tour with a story that was reminiscent of our experiences on this trip: the tale of the Arkansas Traveler. As Cheryl recounted, the story follows a lost traveler in search of directions, who, after a brief misunderstanding, receives not only help but also hospitality from a local man.
Much like the traveler, we arrived at the Capitol curious and eager to learn…
…and we left having found guidance, warmth, and generosity from everyone we met–and we, in turn, have become ambassadors for the state!
A Reflection on the Past: Little Rock Central High
by Saara Maknojia
The students at Little Rock Central High School were dismissed from class at 4:00 p.m., giving Olivia and me a few moments to reflect on the diversity of the present-day student body. Standing outside the iconic school, we couldn’t help but consider how far the nation has come since its rocky process of desegregation.
Just moments earlier, we toured the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, where we were both struck by the profound realization that the opening words of our Constitution, “We the people,” were not necessarily intended to include everyone.
The exhibit exposed us to deeply reflect on how for a long period of our nation’s history, the phrase excluded diverse groups of the population, including African Americans, who were denied the same rights and freedoms as Whites.
The historical significance of Brown v. Board of Education and the grit of the Little Rock Nine are beyond question. Their resilience in the face of extreme adversity not only provided momentum leading to the desegregation of schools but also reshaped the course of American civil rights. The historic site offered a powerful overview of this pivotal moment in U.S. history, immersing us in the experience of those nine brave students who, despite intense opposition, stood firm in their pursuit of equality.
As we walked through the exhibits, photographs capturing the tense moments, media coverage showing the nation’s divided response, and phone recordings of the threats and insults said at the students, we were reminded that the struggle for civil rights was definitive.
It was lived and deeply felt by those who dared to stand against injustice. The visit provided us with a deeper understanding of the personal sacrifices made, and the bravery required, to break down societal barriers. This experience left a lasting impression on us, particularly as we observed the diverse faces of today’s student body, a living testament to the progress that has come into existence from the courage of those who came before.
Little Rock Central High School, once the center of racial strife, now serves as a symbol of the journey taken by the Little Rock Nine toward inclusivity and equality for the progression for the United States.
Pinnacle State Park
One moment you are in the state capital, enjoying nice restaurants, relishing a visit to the state capitol building, and touring museums; and then about 20 minutes later, you are at Pinnacle Mountain State Park, climbing a mile-long incline to get a view of the beautiful Arkansas country-side.
It takes a bit of planning. There is much to do in the Park—it sports an Arboretum, Ranger-led activities, and two rivers. But the attraction to us were the hiking trails, specifically east and west summit hikes. Our plan, in theory, was simple. Olivia and Saara would ascend the East Summit Trail, a demanding hike that requires rock scrambling, a 1.5 total distance and, most important, an ascent of 1,000 feet.
Mike and Stephanie would ascend from the West side, which involves a similar distance and ascent, but less rock scrambling.
For Mike and Stephanie, things worked as planned, and although their advanced age prompted several breathers along the way…
…they enjoyed unparalleled views of the valley…
…distant hills…
…and the Big and Little Maumelle Rivers.
Things also worked as planned for Saara and Olivia, for about the first 1/20 of a mile…
…when they accidentally followed the base trail rather than the East Summit trail. This is a great way to see the perimeter of the mountain, without ever actually ascending, and with literally no chance of reaching the summit of the mountain. After an hour or so of this, a passerby noticed the dazed and bewildered look on the girls’ faces, and he kindly directed them to go up the mountain if they wanted to get to the top.
Other than this hiccup, though, things did go generally as planned. We hoped to see some wildlife, and we did, albeit in the form of a tarantula.
When urged to take a closer look, Olivia responded directly, “Oh, hell no.” True to her word, she refused to proceed on the trail—possibly even reversing—until the tarantula hustled off the trail. We planned to get a good workout, and we did. The East Summit trail is especially challenging, with several areas most often referred to as “boulder fields.” Indeed, “Alltrails.com” admonishes hikers to “proceed cautiously,” noting it is a “highly challenging route” to be tackled by only “experienced adventurers.”
And the payoff is worth the climb, with some beautiful views from almost any angle.
It was a wonderful time..
And it was a fitting end to a rewarding first day in Little Rock. We mixed some outdoor fun with a healthy mix of history, civil rights, politics, architecture, finance, and friendship, all within twenty minutes or so from one another. It is a mix we hope to repeat tomorrow, striving to reach another pinnacle in our educational adventure.
Note: We would like to say “thank you” again for all the great people we met today. Cheryl Augustine was a wonderful tour guide and person; Terry Steed is, as Cheryl notes, “a treasure to the Capitol,” and a very nice person; and Stephen Bright, who generously spent time with us and gave us some terrific advice.
The Texas Prison Museum recently hosted a panel to mark the 50th anniversary of the Fred Carrasco prison siege of 1974. Moderated by Robert Riggs, the host of the True Crime Reporter® Podcast…
…and introduced by museum director David Stacks…
…the discussion brought together several panelists, each with a unique and harrowing experience during those 11 days in Huntsville.
To provide some context: in July 1974, Fred Carrasco, a notorious drug lord, led one of the most dramatic prison sieges in Texas history. Along with two accomplices, Carrasco took 15 hostages in the prison library, demanding safe passage and an escape vehicle. The standoff lasted for 11 tense and terrifying days, culminating in a violent showdown that resulted in multiple deaths, including Carrasco’s.
One of the notable panelists was Wayne Scott, who was a lieutenant at the Texas Department of Corrections (TDC) during the siege. Scott was there throughout the crisis and shared his firsthand account of the intense and dangerous situation. He recounted moments when he and another panelist were shot at, emphasizing the life-threatening reality and high stakes of the situation.
Maurice C. Cook, a Texas Ranger involved in the siege, provided his perspective on the events. Cook’s insights added depth to our understanding of law enforcement strategies and the challenges they encountered while trying to resolve the crisis. His stories about coordinating efforts and facing down Carrasco’s threats were gripping.
The panel also included a Benji Aguilar, translator for Carrasco, who shared a unique and often overlooked perspective on the siege. Interestingly, Carrasco didn’t even need a translator; it was deemed to be more of a power play. The translator’s experiences highlighted the intense psychological pressure of the situation and the manipulative tactics employed by Carrasco.
One of the most dramatic moments of the siege was the Trojan Horse incident. Carrasco orchestrated a false promise of surrender by using a makeshift Trojan Horse, a desperate maneuver to gain leverage and shift the dynamics of the standoff. This ploy was a critical and nerve-wracking phase, showcasing Carrasco’s audacity and the high-stakes environment faced by the authorities.
Photo courtesy of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Maurice C. Cook recounted the most courageous act he witnessed in his career: a corrections officer cutting the hostages loose after the Trojan Horse incident.
During this intense situation, the officer, fully aware of the risks, the officer acted decisively to free the hostages from their bindings. He was later awarded for his act of bravery.
The 50th anniversary panel at the Texas Prison Museum was a powerful reminder of the historical significance of the Fred Carrasco siege and the personal experiences at its core. Despite the intensity of the recollections, it was clear that these men had shared an experience that left them inextricably linked. Indeed, after half a century, they were able to reflect and laugh over their actions as young men, solidifying their experiential bonding.
And they were not the only ones who shared in that experiences. The standing-room only crowd, many of whom were living in Huntsville in 1974, shared in the experience and had the chance to ask questions at the end.
For us, it was a great learning experience, to meet new people…
……see people we know and respect…
…and an honor to be part of a fitting tribute to the courage and tenacity of those who lived through one of the most challenging events in Huntsville’s history.
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 