June 2024 ALT Magazine

At CHRISTUS Health, we never stop working to make heart care better. With us, you have easy access to innovative diagnostics, rehabilitation, and the latest in heart surgery advancements – delivered with genuine thoughtfulness and compassion by our skilled cardiology team. To learn more about one of the area’s most comprehensive heart care programs, or to find a provider close to you, visit CHRISTUShealth.org

By: Anne Granado

From the Publisher...

“You can tell what was the best year of your father’s life because he seems to freeze that clothing style and ride it out.” –Jerry Seinfeld Sandals and socks. Or maybe what I call “parachute” pants. Whatever the case may be, my hubby, Mike, wears both. What does that say about the year he loved best? I don’t know, but I know he enjoys that Jaclyn harasses him about both things. I mean, who wears those things, right?

Ben Mayo, on the other hand, looked great in the clothes he wore when I went to take his photo with his son David. I have known Ben for a long time and remember when he asked Stacy to marry him. It was a wonderful story, with flowers and food. Ben has always been a great cook!

It has been such a delight to watch him as he and Stacy married and had two wonderful children, David and a daughter, Alexis. I have to give both of them credit for being wonderful parents to their two kids. They are very involved in everything the kids do and support each other every step of the way.

We have several other examples of wonderful dads to share with you this month. I hope you enjoy each one.

I have shared this quote many times before, and I love it! It is very insightful to many relationships with children and fathers.

“Any man can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad.” –Anne Geddes

May God bless you and yours!

Therapeutic Massage

We offer quality, therapeutic, patientfocused massages for your wellness. Each massage is customized to what your body needs including Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports, Relaxation, and more!

Medical Massage

Medical Massage is geared toward healing Chronic and Acute Pain through particular assessments, plans, and actions to better assist each unique patient while providing tangible results.

Steam Massage

A Steam Massage benefits include Lymphatic Drainage, Relief from Sore Joints and Muscle Pain, Weight Loss and Cellulite Reduction, Hydrated Beautiful Skin, and rejuvenate while you look and feel younger.

HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Sessions

Schedule in a quick dose (30 minutes) or a full dose (60 minutes) in our Infrared Sauna Blanket. Infrared therapy is known to assist with detoxification, relaxation, burning calories, pain relief, anti-aging, skin purification, cell health, and improved circulation.

FATHER - SON Legacy

The core of the Mayo family business in Texarkana has always been fathers and sons. In 1965, “Pappaw” and “Mammaw” Mayo started the family business in an old warehouse building, and Linn’s sons, Mike and Gary, would work after school. Years later, they joined their dad full-time and helped expand the business and embrace new technology. Over 50 years later, Mike and his sons, Stephen, Ben, and Patrick, own and manage the company.

Ben, the CIO for Production, Planning, and Purchasing of Mayo Furniture, has started a family legacy with his wife, Stacy, whom he met at Texas High School. Though the two were in different social groups—Ben with the swimmers and Stacy with the cheerleaders— they knew each other’s names. After Ben graduated in 1996, he went away to college at Southern Methodist University, and after graduation in 2000, he and Stacy went out for a few weeks. “But, she had more living outside of Texarkana to do…namely

winning Miss Texas in 2001,” Ben says. “We reconnected in the summer of 2004 and married in 2005.” Together, the two are proud parents of David Mayo and Alexis Mayo. Stacy proudly holds the official title of wife and mother, one she deeply cherishes. She also works with the Miss Texarkana Organization and produces and coordinates various events when requested. Recently, Ben and Stacy’s daughter, Alexis, won the title of International Cinderella Miss 2024, which equates to much traveling across the country as Alexis’ traveling companion.

After Ben and Stacy were married, Ben continued working in the family business, and the couple began to talk about their own family and what that would mean for their lives. “I always knew that having kids meant my dreams would take a back seat to their dreams—not that they were over, but just on hold for a while,” Ben says. “And, honestly, I was happy about that.” The two welcomed their first child, a son named

David, on February 21, 2008. Ben says, “I think we had thirty family and friends at the hospital. I remember walking out and giving the progress as often as possible until I went out to say he was born. I remember getting quite emotional and barely getting out the dry statistics of 21 3/8”, six pounds, nine ounces.” Ben and Stacy decided to name their son David, a decision the pair made using the Bible and a very special family member. “I closed my eyes while Stacy opened the Bible and peeled away pages till I said, ‘Stop.’ The page was opened to 2 Samuel 5: David Becomes King Over Israel. I think the name David was on the page a dozen times. We never questioned it.” Ben says. “David is also an important name for our son because it comes from a very special person to Stacy and me: my father-in-law, David James. He is the best father-in-law a man could ask for.”

Becoming a father for the first time left Ben with many questions, such as: Is David breathing? Am I holding him right? Did he get enough to eat? Is the car seat tight enough? Is the car seat too tight? Why does he never sleep? With all new parents, these questions are definitely warranted and expected. “All the cliches are true…you are never ready, there is no training, and you will miss sleep! I remember driving home from St. Michael’s that first day with a family, my family, in the car. All of a sudden, I noticed every little detail on the road. I know it sounds corny, but even the colors were different. Of course, that could have been because it was my first of many, many sleepless nights. But, all of a sudden, I became a protector. That was new!” Ben says.

Ben would now begin his father-son relationship with David, which was well modeled for him by his paternal successors. Ben and his father, Mike, share many of the same qualities. They have spent much time together fishing, hunting, working

the family business, and now golfing with Ben’s son, David. Ben was also close to his grandfathers, both lovingly referred to as “Pappaw.” “When Dad was working, I could always count on Pappaw to take us fishing or hunting. I was very fortunate to have strong, godly father figures in my life, and I still do. Trust me when I say that dads also need dads!” Ben says.

Using the excellent examples left by his paternal successors, Ben and David have created many memories while enjoying the same things together. “I never knew I liked golf, but I love to be on a golf course with David. Just don’t hand me a club. We both like to travel, see sights, and eat at different places. We love adventure! That’s a pretty good recipe for a good time had by father and son. I know because it has really worked out that way with my dad,” Ben says.

While most claim that David is Ben’s “minime,” Ben believes David resembles his mother, Stacy, more. Ben also believes David is the most intelligent and genuine person he knows. “I believe David could be a musician, a talented engineer, or even a world traveler. However, I don’t think I want to put any kind of limitation or direction of my design on him. He might have some plans forming, but my goal is to stay out of his way and do no harm,” Ben says.

Instead, Ben looks forward to passing on some equally great advice to David that he received from his grandfathers. “Pappaw Thomas stressed that we should treat each

other with love and respect first and foremost. We have a big, diverse family and love to spend time together. Pappaw Mayo always had a speech at the ready about being the captain of one’s own ship. Make sure you are in control of where you are going, and to do that, you need to know where you want to go! Sounds simple, but you’d be surprised how many people don’t understand that,” Ben says. Ben would also advise David to find that one thing you love and not stop doing it. There is no such thing as failure when you continue to keep trying.

Three years after David was born, Alexis made her entrance into the Mayo family on May 31, 2011. “The differences between the first and second child are so much more than night and day! I’m unsure if it was confidence or I was already too tired. You’re still not ready, but you at least know a little bit about the train coming toward you down the track,” Ben says. Although the couple was eager to meet their daughter, they were stumped on what to name her. It was not until the couple were in the parking lot of CHRISTUS St. Michael’s Hospital that Ben declared her name should be Alexis. “I wanted to name her

Alexis but call her Alex. She is not named after anybody; it is just a name I liked,” Ben says.

Ben enjoys being a father to both his children, David and Alexis. “I don’t know how two people with the same parents could be so much like us, yet so much different than each other. David is cerebral, talented at most things, and thoughtful while Alex is equally talented but at different skills, loving, and imaginative,” Ben says. As he reflects on what he enjoys most about being a father, he quickly realizes he loves the opportunity to be a provider and encourager. “My biggest job is to make sure they have every tool necessary to not only succeed but thrive. I love music, although I don’t play an instrument or sing. Our children have shown interest and talent in music, so I try to provide whatever they need, whether an instrument, a lesson, or simply attending their practice. I can’t teach them, but I can encourage them and give them undivided attention,” Ben says.

Stacy adds that Ben is a “five-star husband and father.” She reflects on Ben’s unselfish

nature and how he continually chooses the kids and her above his desires. “He loves to surprise us with trips and have fun! He provides for us daily and creates a safe and loving space. I am so proud of the work he does at Mayo Manufacturing, his involvement in our community, and the kindness he has in his heart for all he meets,” Stacy says.

Ben desires that his children always know that they are his greatest contributions; however, they do not need to concern themselves with perfection, as he says, “I don’t expect that in them any more than I think I am capable of it. Their happiness, willingness to work hard at something they love, and not being afraid to fail is all I ask.” As far as parenting advice goes, he desires for all parents to know that there

are times in life when you will have to let go and realize that God has it. “It’s scary when they are born, when they take that first step, when they spend the night out, when they drive a car alone, and all the other ‘firsts.’ Do your best in teaching, then trust the Lord has them,” Ben says. “You can only have that trust if you did your first job, instilling that faith in them too. I’m not saying if you have your kids at church they won’t get in a car wreck or some kind of trouble. But whatever it is, you can get through it with faith. I’ll be the first to admit that I have focused too much on unimportant things. It has always been in my heart, but life gets busy, and you try to squeeze that eighth day in the week. It has actually been my kids to bring me back to where I should be on Sunday morning.

“I closed my eyes while Stacy opened the Bible and peeled away pages till I said, ‘Stop.’ The page was opened to 2 Samuel 5: David Becomes King Over Israel. I think the name David was on the page a dozen times. We never questioned it.”

Diabetic Eye Disease Management

Dry Eye Treatments

Glaucoma Management

Advanced Eye Health Examinations

PEDIATRIC EYE CARE WE LOVE

• Optometrist provide comprehensive eye examinations that evaluate 17 visual skills children need to succeed in reading, learning, sports, and life.

60% of children struggling with school have undiagnosed vision problems.

• All children should have a comprehensive eye examination by their Optometrist at age 3, before starting kindergarten, and every year they are in school.

• At Family Eye Care Clinic, children do not need to know their letters or make difficult choices.

• Our doctors have the skills and instruments to determine a precise glasses prescription and assess the eye health without a child’s verbal response.

Jason Granado

Father of 2

Jason Granado says that becoming a parent is similar to starting an uncharted adventure. Though the thought of being a dad comes with uncertainty, it is also the start of a new, exciting chapter. “I’ve been around kids my whole life, but having one of your own is a different ballgame than just being around my nieces and nephews,” Jason says. “There was definitely some doubt that came with having my own children and realizing that from now on,

I wasn’t just taking care of myself and my wife anymore; it became more about my daughters and their needs. But it’s all been worth it. Our girls make our family whole and complete.”

Jason’s wife, Anne, gave birth to their first daughter, Maren, in January 2017. Jason said she felt fragile and small when he held her for the first time. “I definitely feel like there is a sense of fearfulness at first because you don’t want to

screw it up. You are sitting there holding that baby that seems so perfect,” Jason says. “However, things were easier with our second daughter, Iris. By then, we kind of knew what to expect, but since our girls were three, almost four, years apart, it was easy to forget all the things that a baby requires. With Iris, we definitely felt like we should know some things, but we actually had to Google a lot!”

Now that the girls are older,

it is easier to see their unique personalities and how much they differ from each other. Jason says they are the perfect mixture of him and his wife. “There are times when I really see Maren’s determination and selflessness, which she gets from my wife. But when she is stubborn or witty, I know she got that from me,” Jason says. “Maren works hard to get satisfaction from accomplishing something, but she also tries to please others. She wants to be a great friend, a great daughter, and a great sister. Maren is not happy unless she 100% completes something; whether it be arts and crafts, a math problem, or something athletic, she will keep doing something until she gets it. She doesn’t know what failure is.”

When it comes to his second daughter, Iris, Jason says she has a different way of doing things. He says that she is headstrong, comical, and spontaneous. “She learns by doing, not by necessarily listening to what we have to say on the matter,” Jason says. “But, her ‘Iris-isms’ are so funny that they can turn your day from bad to good. She loves to hug and cuddle and likes to have ‘her people’ around her. She has some of my sarcasm and rowdiness, but she can come into a room and make everyone’s day better just like her mama.”

Jason says that fatherhood has given him a different outlook on life, and being a dad has caused him to work at setting aside his own ego to be the best provider and teacher for his girls. “You don’t want to instill your flaws in your kids. To the best of your ability, you want them to be a better version of you,” Jason says. “I also think being a ‘girl dad’ has required me to become a softer, more empathetic person. My girls want to talk about their feelings, and that’s not always comfortable for me, but I have tried to be more sensitive about how I say things or approach things with them.”

Though he often gets asked about having a son, Jason says he is pleased with having daughters and has the best of both worlds. “I love being a ‘girl dad.’ The girls go from playing princesses and dressing up one minute to the next minute doing all the typical ‘guy’ stuff with me. I get to practice being more in touch with my emotions, and then, we are out on the golf course, wrestling or playing soccer,” Jason says. “We just really want to empower the girls to be bold and brave in pursuing their goals and dreams. In today’s world, a woman has to be strong to have some of the same opportunities.”

The biggest challenge Jason

has had to overcome as a parent is learning to take a step back and not let his overprotective tendencies get in the way of allowing the girls to grow. “I’ve had to learn to let them make mistakes without stepping in,” Jason says. “It’s also a challenge to be a good disciplinarian. I don’t want the girls to not show manners or be complete rascals, but I don’t want to be so hard on them that I break their spirit. There’s a fine line to walk.”

Being a parent is not easy, and though every new experience brings a lesson, Jason says he has had a lot of fun along the journey. He loves to watch the girls ride bikes and scooters in the driveway and tube at the lake. He says their laughter is infectious when playing board or card games. Jason also loves that the girls are adventurous and will try new things, and though he can’t narrow it down to a favorite memory, he says that both Maren and Iris have overcome obstacles this year that have made him proud. “These past few years, Maren really impressed me. She decided that she wanted to apply for the Lighthouse Team, which promotes leadership at her school, so she went and got the application and filled it out. She even did an interview, and she’s seven years old!” Jason says. “Then, Iris started

Pre-K 3 this year as a shy, timid girl who didn’t talk much but has really stepped out of her comfort zone. She has become the most talkative, friendly, outgoing bundle of joy!”

Though it’s rewarding to witness the girls’ successes, Jason says his biggest hope is that they grow into Christian women who love others.

“The godliness they show is what makes me the most proud. I love that I have girls who want to be involved and active in our church, and it means the most to

me when I hear stories about them being kind or showing love and respect to someone,” Jason says. “Just this past weekend, Maren had a chance to score a goal in soccer, but she wanted a younger girl on the team to have an opportunity. So, she passed the ball. Those are the kinds of things that make me proud

to be their dad.”

Jason says he still has a lot to learn as a dad, but he will enjoy every minute he has to make memories with his girls. “I love being a father because I get to be a provider, teacher, coach, friend, and protector to my kids,” Jason says. “I just love their outlook on life. They love to celebrate, have fun, and make every day better. I love to watch them grow and to see life through their eyes.”

My dream Father’s Day would include enjoying time with my wife and girls. The secret to being a great dad is listening to your child’s needs.

If I could go on a trip with my kids, I’d love to go to the lake because that’s our favorite place to be as a family.

The one thing I wish I had known about parenting is how great it is; no one can explain it to you before you experience it yourself. The best gift my kids could ever give me would be their handmade cards because the cards they make really embody who they are as a person and their thoughtfulness.

Kendrick King Father of4

When Kendrick King and his wife Kayla King became parents in 2011, Kendrick admitted that it was scary to think about being a dad for the first time. “I was young, and it was tough at first,” he says.

However, King had plenty of time to practice. After the birth of his firstborn Ashden King, now 12, the couple went on to have three more children: Audrey King, 11; Destiny King, 7; and Trinity King, 1. Because his four children are at different stages in life,

they each have a unique way of expressing their spirit and personality. Kendrick says that Ashden loves a challenge and always has a competitive spirit. “His determination sets him apart from most of his peers,” Kendrick says. “Ashden is also athletic and very smart.”

On the other hand, Audrey is unique because of the way she loves people. “Audrey will literally give her last to make sure others do not go without; she is also athletic and brilliant,” Kendrick says.

“Destiny is unique because of her attention to detail. Destiny is also like my other children— both athletic and very smart— but she is also special. She will be the one to earn a doctorate degree one day.”

Kendrick says that though Trinity is the youngest, she runs the house! “She is my little singer and dancer,” Kendrick says. “I love watching all four of them grow up, and I enjoy spending time with each of them.”

One of Kendrick’s favorite memories of his kids is from the time they went on a family trip to SeaWorld in San Antonio. While they were there, they also went horseback riding and shopping. While making fun memories is very important, Kendrick also enjoys the everyday moments with his kids. “I enjoy playing basketball and football and watching movies with my kids,” Kendrick says. “I also really like helping my kids battle adversity and being there for them through the tough challenges they face in life.”

My dream Father’s Day would include me at an amusement park with all my children and athletes that I coach at Liberty-Eylau. That would be awesome.

The secret to being a great dad is being consistent. There are no days off when it comes to your children. They need you every day.

If I could go on a trip with my kids, I’d love to get on a plane and travel to Florida because I’ve never been there before.

The one thing that I wish I had known about parenting is that once you have a child, your bed is no longer yours. As a matter of fact, nothing is actually yours anymore.

Kendrick’s biggest challenge as a parent is not letting negativity cloud his judgment and affect his attitude, especially when communicating with his kids. “Sometimes it is hard not to want peace and quiet after a long day,” Kendrick says. “But my kids do not always see it that way!”

As Kendrick grows and learns as a father, he wants to continue to pass on important lessons that will impact his children’s lives and provide an excellent example for their future. “I think it is really important to teach kids how important it is to respect adults, which was something my parents always taught me,” Kendrick says. “Fatherhood has motivated me to be the best man I can be. Every day, I try to carry myself the way I would like my son to carry himself when he becomes a man one day. I also try to exemplify a good man and father for my daughters.”

The best gift my kids could ever give me would be living out their dreams.

Michael Williams Father of 6

Michael Williams and his wife, Christina, are the proud parents of six children: Mike Jr.(30), Jacob(28), Arron(25), Jaylen(17), Adriana(12), and Zoie(7). “Being a new dad was scary but exciting,” Michael says. “Now, the best thing about being a dad is watching my kids learn and grow.”

Each of Michael’s kids has a unique personality. He says that Mike Jr. is a strong, independent man, and Jacob is a hard worker. Arron works hard and is a great big brother. Jaylen is a senior this year at Liberty-Eylau High School and is a great welder,” Michael says. Adriana is a beautiful ballet dancer and an amazing soccer player for GT United Soccer Club. Zoie is a spitfire. She is hard-headed but independent. She plays

softball for Redwater Little Dragons.”

When Michael spends time with his kids, he enjoys cooking, playing corhole, swimming, and vacationing. “My all-time favorite memories are always the times we spend around the holidays,” Michael says. “Fatherhood has changed my life by trying to be there for my kids when they need me. I work hard to show my love for them.”

Even during challenging times, Michael really loves being a dad. “I try my best to be a good dad and work through any hardships to be there for them,” Michael says. Being a dad is a great job, and it makes life great. I am so thankful for my kids and my wife.”

My dream Father’s Day would include a cookout or a trip with my kids.

The secret to being a great dad is working through hard times and trying my best to be there for my kids.

If I could go on a trip with my kids, I would love to go to Florida because we love the beach.

One thing that I wish I had known about parenting is that it’s ok to mess up. Just work hard daily to be the best dad you can be.

The best gift my kids could ever give me would be time. I enjoy all the time I get to spend with them.

FORGET WHAT

KNOW ABOUT CHURCH

Father’s Day Fun Facts

Average Age of First-Time Fathers is 30

29 Million Fathers in the US are

Roses are the official flower of Father’s Day. Red roses for living fathers and white for those who have passed

The male seahorse carries the eggs and births the babies

In Catholic Countries, Father’s Day is celebrated on Saint Joseph Day - A day of Jesus’ Father

Ties are the most popular gifts

The 1st Father’s Day was celebrated in the state of Washington on June 19, 1910

The word Dad is believed to come from baby talk

In 1972 President Richard Nixon made Father’s Day a national Holiday

Sonora Smart Dodd is the founder of Father’s Day in honor of her dad William Jackson Smart

Cards are the most popular item given

It is estimated that around 72 million cards are sent for Father’s Day

Sunday June 16, 2024

SCENE IN ALT

Char Crane, Janis Stringfellow, Teresa Crow, Suzy Heath, Rita Freeman, Sann Terry, Yulin Brewer

Richard Reynolds, Dr. Robin Hickerson, Lisa Sitterley

Keith Beason, Jolly Woosley, Sally Patton

Captions Clara & Juan Gomez

The

Salvation Army Texarkana Women's Auxiliary

Gladys Morris Stone Soup Luncheon

First United Methodist Church on Thursday, April 18th.

Marsha Petty, Rev. Jamie Alexander

Beth Vida

Carolyn Allen, Nancy Robbins

Yulin Brewer, Arron Harvey

PROTECTING YOUR PRIVACY ON SOCIAL MEDIA: HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?

TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION

Follow these tips for protecting your privacy on social media.

In 2020, there were 3.96 billion active users on social media and the number keeps growing. Whether it’s to find a place to eat, stay in touch with friends or family, or connect with industry peers to gain knowledge for your career growth, social media has a platform for you and your interests. But are you being safe with divulging your personal information, also known as personally identifiable information (PII)?

Don’t reuse passwords

According to a Balbix report, 99% of users reuse passwords across either work accounts, personal accounts, or work and personal accounts. Using the same username and password across multiple applications increases your risk of identity theft and account compromise. We recommend using a password manager to hold all of your passwords. There are plenty

of products available and some of them are even free. Be sure to read the product description to determine if it’s the right fit for you.

When

setting

up

your account, only share required information

When you set up a social media account, you may be asked to provide your email address, date of birth, mailing address, place of employment and other personal details. Do you trust the platform with this information? Does it have a cybersecurity team to monitor and protect your PII from theft 24/7? Do they sell user information to third parties? The key is to only give out information that you feel comfortable with, and only provide the required information needed to sign up, even if a company asks for more.

Less is more with profile personalization

After you create your account, you may want to personalize your profile with pictures and biographical details like your location, hometown, birthday, workplace and position, and marital status. The more information you disclose about yourself, the more potential harm can be done by an attacker/ hacker. Passwords can be cracked just by looking at the information in someone’s profile. For example, users may use a pet’s name with their date of birth as a password, which is information that may have been shared in a post or profile.

Understand who can see your profile and posts

Who are you letting into your circle of friends, followers or connections? In multiple data breaches, hackers used fake social media accounts to befriend someone at the target company or send phishing links to gain insider information. If your profile is private and you receive a request from someone you do not know, validate that the person sending the

request is actually who they say they are. You can always ask if they can set up a quick call to do an introduction or do a quick internet search of their name to see what pops up.

Once you hit the “post” button, your content is out there for anyone to see. If you post that you’re going out of town or “check in” to restaurants or event venues, you only want those you trust to receive this information. Many burglaries can be traced back to home owners sharing news about a vacation online.

If you can follow our tips above, you are on the right path to protecting your personal information and staying safe while surfing the web and using social media.

© 2023 Raymond James Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange / SIPC, and Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA / SIPC, are subsidiaries of Raymond James Financial, Inc. Raymond James® and Raymond James Financial® are registered trademarks of Raymond James Financial, Inc.

Drug Take Back Initiative Operation Medicine Cabinet

The Texarkana Arkansas Police Department is proud to partner with Texarkana Emergency Center in an effort to remove unused and out of date prescription medicines from your homes.

•It is important to know that law enforcement is only interested in the removal of unused and/or outdated medications from the homes of our citizens.

•It matters not whose name is on the prescription, by whom it was prescribed, where it was prescribed, or where you reside.

•We stress that it makes no difference if you live in Texas or Arkansas.

•We take back all medications, no questions asked. You can remove the label if you desire but it’s not necessary.

•We ask that you do not deposit needles (sharps), inhalers, medication from businesses or clinics, ointments, lotions, liquids, aerosol cans, hydrogen peroxide, or thermometers.

One box has been placed behind the Bi State Justice Building at 100 N. State Line Ave., Texarkana, Arkansas and another outside the Texarkana Emergency Center, 4646 Cowhorn Creek Rd., Texarkana, Texas. These boxes are regularly checked and the contents are immediately packaged for destruction. If you would like to personally drop your medications off to law enforcement, you can at the Miller County Sheriff’s Office on East Street and Bi State Justice Building in Texarkana.

You can learn more about this program by visiting www.artakeback.org or on Facebook by searching Arkansas Take Back or Arkansas Drug take Back.

Suzie TK SnippeTS

By: Suzie Tyler

Graduation

May and June are typically graduation months.

Many high school seniors will graduate and enter the real world. Several will obtain a college degree, attend a trade school, or choose the military. Others will take jobs in the retail sector.

Regardless, it is a time to grow up and make decisions independently of their parents.

Birds grow up and leave the nest. Unlike the birds, you still can seek your parents’ advice and guidance; they are there for support and advice.

High school seniors from four years ago will graduate college this year and begin their careers. Many businessmen believe they are entering a bleak market. But I can remember hearing that each year in the past.

Job opportunities in medicine, technology, and cyber security are vast. Employment opportunities are always available to those willing to work hard and start at the bottom of the totem pole. Every job is meaningful and important, from the janitor or plumber to the CEO or state highway trooper.

Of course, let us not forget the kindergarten graduates. They are so cute in their caps and gowns. It is a big step for them as they begin all-day classes instead of half-day ones.

Remembering graduates has caused me to look back to when I graduated 64 years ago.

Opportunities were limited. Females were not encouraged to go to college unless they wanted to be nurses or teachers, or if their goal was to be a secretary or bookkeeper, they went to business school. I chose the latter avenue.*

Opportunities were limited, and girls were expected to become wives and mothers.*

Today, a woman can pursue any career: she can be a doctor, a lawyer, or an astronaut. She can also be a wife and mother and have a job.*

My daughter Karmyn is graduating from NYU with a master’s degree and a 3.97 GPA. Needless to say, I am a proud momma! Watching her graduate is a blessing.

Congratulations to all graduates. Go with God’s Grace and Blessing!

*From AGAINST ALL ODDS, We Found The Perfect Love, available on Amazon.

Follow me on Facebook, X (aka Twitter), Instagram, and Amazon Authors. No TikTok!

Fish Tales with Mike Brower

Same Song, but Different Verse

Well, this is the time of year when we see the all-toocommon “Nobacktheboater.” They are a funny breed that is always unprepared to put their boat in the water. They pull up to the ramp and back partway down, then start loading their boat while everyone else waits for them to do what should have been done away from the ramp in the parking lot.

They also have an uncanny way of backing their boat down in a worm fashion, sitting in the boat while it’s still on the trailer, and wondering why the motor won’t crank when it ran fine last year. Then, after they finally get their motor started, they back off the trailer and pull right back up on the ramp while others wait for them to move. The “Nobacktheboater” always has the entire family with him, from the baby to Aunt Edna, who is 90 and can’t get in the boat because it is moving when she should have been loaded back in the parking lot.

When I retire, I’m going to the boat ramp on Degray, sitting beside the ramp in a chair, watching the show, and holding a sign that says, “Will back your boat—$5.” I could make a fortune!

Interested in having your local event featured in the ALT Magazine? Send your details in an email to info@alt-mag.com

College @ Texarkana College (June 3-6)

Summer Camp @ TRACH (June 4-6)

Bible School @ Northern Hills Baptist Church (June 10-14)

Vacation

Bill

903-748-3186

NOW LEASING

AVAILABLE NOW, Newly built gorgeous townhomes. Take your pick of a three bedroom, two full baths, one half bath unit or two bedroom, two full baths, one half bath unit.

LOCATED AT 3445-3475 BROOKE PLACE TEXARKANA TX (Pleasant Grove ISD), at the end of a cul-de-sac, off Richmond Road. Each unit features stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, open floor concept, breakfast bar, laundry room, vinyl plank flooring throughout, and attached one car garage. Pets welcome 35lbs or less. Walk to Ironwood for Happy Hour and a nice dinner, or Amigo Juan’s for a Margarita! Only 5 minutes to Christus St. Michael Hospital & 12 minutes to Wadley Regional Medical Center, Only 5 minutes to Texas A&M Texarkana Campus & 8 minutes to Texarkana College.