Robert Shankle grew up in Lufkin and spent many years in the military. He returned to Lufkin to work with his parents business. He decided to run for city council and has served in that capacity for several years. He has been instrumental in the founding of IMPACT Lufkin, which is attempting to revitalize North Lufkin, the traditionally African-American part of town. Mr. Shankle discussed his early life in Lufkin in the 1970s, his time in the military, his return to Lufkin, his decision to run for city council, his time on the council, and the challenges facing the African-American community