ALT Magazine May 2011

May 2011 . Vol. 5, Issue 5

Texarkana’s Newest Festival!

May 14, 2011 Dream becomes reality!

Family, Fashion, Faith

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May /contents

F E AT U R E 18

F o u r D e c a d e s o f C h a n g e - TA M U - T

EVERY MONTH 8 48 27 22 97 66 94

Editor ’s Letter From His Heart Financial Focus F i s h Ta l e s Real Estate Resource Guide Second Chances

EVENTS

k / COVER

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The Fluke that Succeeded...

Railfest will be hitting Texarkana on Saturday, May 14th! Find out the details on how this new, amazing event came to be! Mark Shoptaw, together with Jimmy “Smitty” Smith, helped make this dream a reality!

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TEA Party W i n e & J a z z b y H a r v e s t Te x a r k a n a Angel Fund Foundation United Way Recognition Breakfast Beryl Henry School Career Day Marines Recruiting Station Dallas Annual Pool Function 2nd Annual Rosehill Celebration CASA Fundraiser Circle of Friends Carnival Stone Soup Luncheon Jail & Bail H i g h Te a P a r t y Party With Picassos Mark Masquerade Benefitting Relay for Life

BUSINESS

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Lest we forget...

Homer Carter will never forget that day...

Sunday, December 7, 1941. Let us not forget our veterans this Memorial Day!

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Profile - Reed’s Bridal and Formal

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Profile - Bridal Castle/Tuxedo Palace

C U LT U R E 29

A LT B r i d e s

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Calendar of Events

EDITOR’S letter

ark-la-tex’s premiere magazine

Standing on h i s t o r y. . .

Each generation goes further than the generation preceding it because it stands on the shoulders of that generation. You will have opportunities beyond anything we’ve ever known. ~ Ronald Reagan Some people live in the past. Some people live with the future in mind. Others utilize both times and gather information from the past to help them go toward the future. Such is the case with those we have chosen to highlight this month.

Starting with Railfest, Mark Shoptaw and Jimmy “Smitty” Smith used information from the past to bring a new festival to our future! Railfest is the creation of these two men (and a team of great volunteers) who have researched the history of the railroads and Texarkana’s beginnings. Using this information, Railfest has now become a reality for our city! On May 14, 2011, you will be able to visit downtown and enjoy the results of their efforts. Fun times, good music, family and friends -- all will contribute to making this an event you won’t want to miss!

Of course, Texarkana’s past also includes Texas A&M University-Texarkana -- and this month we are reminded of its history -- and given a hint of where it is going! Again, many people working toward a goal has culminated in something Texarkana can be proud of!

Proudly representing our country, Homer Carter was one of our soldiers who survived Pearl Harbor. His stories abound -- many of which did not make this article! He is such a colorful, wonderful example of how patriotic our citizens are. Freedom is not free. It costs us so much to be something some take for granted. For those who have served our country, we salute you.

As for me, I am taking all of the things that have happened in my past and preparing for what I hope is a bright future! God is good! Look at what you have around you and thank Him for your many blessings! I am so grateful for my family, my friends, my church, my ability to do the things I do every day! Sometimes even just the little things in life make such a difference. To have the freedom to look at our past and plan our future is a blessing.

Lastly, I want to tell my Mom how much I appreciate everything she taught me - especially that I could do anything I wanted to do if I tried hard enough. Mom, you were right! I love you! Happy Mother’s Day! May God bless you.

Publisher/Editor

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M a y 2 0 11 / V o l . 5 , I s s u e 5

Publisher and Editor / Debbie Brower Associate Editors / Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson Photography / Image Forward Photography, Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson, Rozana Page, Sherrie Hewitt Sales & Marketing Manager / Charlie McMurphy Feature Writer / Jane Bouterse Contributing Writers / Mike Brower, Bob Bruggeman, Arwen McDaniel, Jeff Schreve, Dustin Stringer Guardian / Mike Brower

If you have an event you would like to include in our Upcoming Events section, please email us at: info@alt-mag.com.

w w w. a l t - m a g . c o m

info@alt-mag.com 200 Heather Dr., Texarkana, TX 75501 (903) 334-9605

ALT Magazine is published the 1st business day or every month. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission of ALT Magazine is strictly prohibited. ALT Magazine is distributed free of charge. Direct mail subscriptions are available for $36.00 per year. Contributions from our readers are welcome. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material.

©2011 ALT Magazine

www.alt-mag.com

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by Jane Bouterse

fluke succeeded!

The

That

Thanks to the significant efforts of Jimmy “Smitty� Smith, Chairman of the Texarkana, AR, Historic District Commission and Mark Shoptaw, Grant Writer and Project Coordinator for the City of Texarkana, AR, the dreams of Railfest will become a reality on May 14, 2011.

“T

he fact that Texarkana exists may be a fluke having more to do with good fortune than foresight.

“The good fortune was being at the right place at the right time when Texas and Pacific Railroad coming from Dallas needed a place to link with the Cairo and Fulton coming from Arkansas.” In addition, several established towns assumed the railroads would come to them, so they made no effort to encourage them. The railroads passed them by. Because the C & F had no charter to operate in Texas, the T & P agreed to extend its rails to the state line. A town— Texarkana—was born at the point where the railroads met. On December 8, 1873, the first town lots were sold as area timber was being cut and fortunes were in the making.

According to the Gazette’s TEXARKANA II / THE TWO COUNTY COLLECTION, Texarkana exists because of timber and location, and the railroads facilitated not only its birth but also its growth. Some say Texarkana’s position now is just as ideal as in 1873, and railroads continue to feed that potential. In 2011, at least 53 trains a day move freight and passengers through Texarkana on 13 sets of tracks. The clanging of bells and belching smoke characteristic of those black Iron Horses have been replaced by sleek diesel engines. The roar of their powerful motors and piercing wails announce their presence; nonetheless, they pull familiar railway cars sitting atop their iron wheels which continue to clank over the steel rails, acknowledging the commerce of both the past and the present.

So…….why not celebrate our origins? Lockhart, Texas, salutes the Chisholm Trail; Little Rock and San Antonio celebrate their rivers; while Amarillo pays tribute to Route 66. Whether trail, river, asphalt or rail, these means of transportation have made their communities and helped to define both the people and economies which have made their towns successful. Texarkana is a railroad town, and fluke or no, the time has come to pay tribute to our history and have some fun in the process.

Thanks to the significant efforts of Jimmy “Smitty” Smith, Chairman of the Texarkana, AR, Historic District Commission and Mark Shoptaw, Grant Writer and Project Coordinator for the City of Texarkana, AR, the dreams of such an event may become a reality. Both these hard working enthusiasts acknowledge the idea of celebrating the railroads did not originate with them.

Previous attempts to join with Union Pacific RR in beautifying downtown Texarkana by adding benches and green spaces just “fizzled.” At the heart of all the attempts has been—as one might guess—money.

The project for an improved downtown festival was resurrected by Melanie Dowd of the Texarkana Historical Museum. Melanie was seeking to expand

and renew enthusiasm for the Museum’s annual downtown fall festival—the Quadrangle. The main issue for any festival, as Smitty and Mark have learned by their consultations with other festival leadership, is infrastructure. Water and electricity are essentials for vendors and performers as well as guests. These vital utilities need to exist but disappear, i.e. be available but not supplied by cords and pipes running all over the area frequented by festival visitors.

This infrastructure currently does not exist in Texarkana’s downtown.

Oh…just hold the iron horses for a moment. To talk about infrastructure before even suggesting a location is like putting the once-familiar caboose before the engine. Is there a location in Texarkana large enough and safe enough and interesting enough to foster such a…RAILFEST? You betcha’.

Smith and Shoptaw have located the perfect spot and right across the street from some of the celebratory train tracks: Festival Plaza or Front Street Festival Plaza, part

of the original downtown historical district, is the area which claims Olive street as a western boundary and Hazel as an eastern; Front Street—the frontal boundary between the railroad property and city property runs the length of the several city blocks contained within this space. The basic pipes are already buried, so the infrastructure needed is “do-able.”The space is ample for family fun, kids and adult spaces, vendors of food and favors, display booths, as well as games, performances, contests and music galore. Nearby opportunities exist for recycling objects large and small in addition to a unique display of antique automobiles.

The major theme of the entire festival will be the railroads, and everything—from restrooms to cabanas—will reflect that theme.

As the two planners a.k.a. dreamers discuss RAILFEST, their enthusiasm permeates the room. Their plans are threefold: 1) To introduce people to the Front Street Festival Plaza and restore interest in an historic downtown area to which life is gradually returning; 2) To tell the story of the railroads’ histories and their relationship to Texarkana; 3) To create a space which will invite other festivals, concerts and celebrations. This plaza will be

perfect for hosting the Quadrangle Festival in the fall and the RAILFEST in the spring with “Who knows what?” in between.

Dreams for a Railway History Museum including railway memorabilia from actual railway cars to cuisine; tickets to tablecloths, manikins clad in railroad duds to menus.. As Smitty observes, “It depends on the grants, and we’re trying. Eventually the railroad museum can become part of the Texarkana Museums System. We know it will take a while to get it like we want it, but we’re working on it.” The operative word is eventually, but the goals have been firmly identified. After all, the Texarkana, AR City planner has just been working on this idea for four year years already. “Making dreams a reality. That’s what we try to do,” Mark affirms.

For now, a Front Street Festival Plaza Oversight Committee, composed of 12 Texarkana citizens has been appointed. The committee is comprised of city workers— Texarkana, AR, Public Works, Planning and Safety Departments are already at work—business owners, historians and other interested parties have stepped up their support as well as anonymous donors. Volunteers have been recruited and some, like volunteers do, just raised their hands or pitched in. Machelle Shoptaw has been named by husband Mark to handle the army of volunteers needed to make RAILFEST a reality. Volunteers will receive a free shirt and free pass for their hard work.

When Melanie Dowd was first approached with the festival space idea, her response was something like, “Do you think you could have it ready in three months for the Quadrangle?”

Mark managed a smile as he replied, “About three years?’ Well, the time, as time has a tendency to do, has sped by.

Planners have over the years researched not only grants but also festivals, like Little Rock’s Riverfest, to learn How, and a number of plans have been implemented and decisions made. [Check out www. railfesttexarkana.com]. Those decisions include the following: DATE: Saturday, May 14, 10 a.m. until 10 p.m./ 3 gates open, 1 from 10 p.m.-5 p.m.

LOCATION: Front Street Festival Plaza, Downtown Texarkana ADMISSION: Adults-$5 / Children 12 or under- FREE VENDORS: Four of the six food vendors have been recommended by the Arkansas State Fair; two come from Texarkana. Arts and crafts and Non-profit displays, too.

PROGRAM: Miss RAILFEST Pageant, a Twin Cities Pageant open to any girl ages 0 year to 22 years of age. Competition will be in Evening Gown, Talent, On-Stage www.alt-mag.com

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Question, and Sportswear [For complete information visit www.arklatexpageants.com/ PAGEANTS/RAILFEST or e-mail questions to MissRailfest@gmail.com.

Icehouse (restaurant), 3rd and Wood Streets, Downtown Texarkana, AR, will be celebrating its second anniversary the day of the Festival.

Rib Cook-off on the Walraven-Ritchie dock which will serve as one of the busy three stages used during the Festival. Union Pacific RR owns a perfect stage across Front street to the south of the Festival grounds A major requirement to use the stage dictates that Festival sponsors must erect a public safety fence about 1000 feet long between the stage and the tracks. (As Smitty says, “Expensive and Eventually.”)

Texarkana’s Antique Auto Museum has moved its spring show to coincide with Festival activities--------

6 p.m., Main stage – ELVIS arrives followed by the ROLLING STONES, the cover band for SATISFACTION. FESTIVAL GROUNDS: Family Fun Section Teenagers’ Territory Kids’ Zone with Pigment on the Pavement, Dave’s Skate Park equipment Adult Beer Garden – Two blocks will separate the Beer Garden from the Kids’ Zone FIRST AID: Express Care.

TRASH: Waste Management will be on the job along with RAILFEST Recycles. The Texarkana, AR recycling program will be open on the same day as the Festival.

ADJACENT ATTRACTIONS: Hopkins

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And those are just the plans so far finalized.

WEATHER: What is known is that the wind is always blowing along Front Street, so the area is comfortable most of the year.

Smitty and Mark are continuing their moneyraising efforts. The bulk of their funds have come from the Advertising and Promotion Committee and are being used for the exact purpose intended. Grants have been written but results are slow in coming. Individual donors, some anonymously, have already come forward with contributions, and the opportunities for contributing time and/or money are still abundant. “Money orders, checks and cash can be sent to 216 Walnut, Texarkana, AR 71854/ Label: RAILFEST,” Mark and Smitty almost step on each others’ words.

As the events unfold and the enthusiasm grows, organizers and supporters of Texarkana’s first RAILFEST emphasize the importance of involvement by citizens and governments from Arkansas and Texas. “We are grateful to our sponsors from both sides of town,” Mark stresses

followed by a hearty “YOU BET” from Smitty.

Our town is here because of the railroad and because the Texas and Pacific RR in Texas and the Cairo and Fulton in Arkansas worked together. What a perfect model they provided for our whole city.

To get additional information about the RAILFEST Festival some of the following sources might be useful: www.railfesttexarkana.com E-mail: railfest@live.com arklatexpageants.com/PAGEANTS/ RAILFEST E-mail: MissRailfest@gmail.com Facebook.com/railfest Join in the FUN…..Texarkana’s First RAILFEST FESTIVAL for the entire family!

Saturday May 14, 2011 10 a.m. until 10 p.m.

Front Street Festival Park, Downtown Texarkana CELEBRATE the Railroads!

CELEBRATE Texarkana, AR-TX! CELEBRATE The Fluke that Succeeded!

For information on advertising in the Ark-LaTex’s Premier Magazine, Call Charlie McMurphy today!

903.908.5797 or 903.334.9605

www.alt-mag.com

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EVENT

Tea Party

WHERE

Wake Village Park

WHEN

4/15/11

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1. Kelly Wright, Tim Lewis, Nick Birmingham, Mylon Honea and John Page 2. Sharon Lloyd, Jan Landers, Charlene Carter and Karen Farris 3. Chris and Debbie Loveall 4. Mary Johnson and Hazel Cotton 5. Shawn and Melissa Nicholas, Trena Birdsong and Don Naney 6. Kevin and Creamalia Hopkins, Lela and Charles Crittenden 7. Gary Steudte, Makayla Doty, Melissa and Rick Doty 8. Darrell Cox, Jean and Judge Lacy Sterling 9. Joe Murray, Amber Burgess and Miller County Judge Larry Burgess 10. Wanda Minnick and Pastor Joseph Brandon 11. Mary Letha Notley, Floice Daniel, Helen Tuck and Wanda Minnick 12. Kelly Wright, Mylon Honea, Nick Birmingham and Tim Lewis 13. Bowie County Clerk Natalie Nichols and Miller County Judge Larry Burgess 14. Nick Birmingham, Mylon Honea, Tim Lewis and Kelly Wright 15. Opening ceremony with Grace Crews 16. Natalie and Chet Nichols 17. Bruce and Kim Johnson 18. Chad Biddinger and Jenny Hankinson 19. Jeff and Karyn Akin

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Wine and Jazz by Harvest Texarkana EVENT

WHERE

Special Events

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4/2/11

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1. Lydia Lawrence, Jill Whittington and Rachael Schartz 2. Jan Orr, Rebecca Shipp, Mary Jane Orr, Gena Shipp and Bertha Shipp 3. Troy Niemeyer, Janet Jones, Derrick and Gay Durrant 4. Dan and Carolyn Miller, with F.J. Durrant 5. Bruce and Danielle Sims 6. Kathy Harp, Mary Beth Womack and Pam Beck 7. Darien and Laura LaCroix, Pam Beck and Andy Prince 8. Eddie Lamb, Dr. Jo Kahler, Pam McCoy, Julie and Ron Collins 9. Rolando Yanes, Tavo Cruz, Bertha Shipp and Jeff Brown 10. Scooter Raney, Brandon Thrash, Chris Court and Brandon Cogburn 11. Vincent and Peggy Senatore 12. Rob and Camille McGinnis 13. Eddie Lamb and Dr. Jo Kahler 14. Chris and Laura Ross 15. Trent and Jenn Taylor 16. Brandon Cogburn, Maura Johnston and Jill Whittington 17. Dr. Scott and Lenore Wyrick 18. Ronnie and Jen Spears, Debbie Rose and Steve Raffaelli 19. Rachael Schwartz and Art Versnick

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from Court House to Regional Arts Center

ited: You’re Inv

FREE!

Old Fashioned Ice Cream Social Sunday May 22, 2011 2-4pm

CALL:

321 W. 4th Street, Downtown Texarkana 903.792.4992 VISIT: www.trahc.org www.alt-mag.com

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by Bob Bruggeman

Four Decades of

T

exas A&M University-Texarkana has been providing a high quality education for citizens in the four states region for 40 years. The university has come a long way from a humble beginning when professors did not have offices and they literally used the trunks of their vehicles as offices. Over the years, the university has grown by increasing enrollment, offering more degree programs and meeting the higher education needs of citizens residing in the region.

In the late 1970’s, the university established a new presence on Robison Road and shared the same campus with Texarkana College. The university still maintains the

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Campaign” begins with a $7 million goal to gain private support from the local community to fund the establishment of the College of Engineering and Computer Science.

The goal was met and surpassed in June 2008 with an overall amount of $9.2 million raised.

campus on Robison Road known as the South Campus. A major portion of the university has been relocated to the new Main Campus near Bringle Lake. During the past decade, historical changes have taken place throughout the university at a rapid pace. Change continues to dominate the landscape at the present time.

2000-2010 Timeline •

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2000 – The Northeast Texas Committee on Higher Education is formed to study the educational needs in the area 2002 – The “Endow the Future

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2003 – Governor Rick Perry signs House Bill 1566 allowing A&MTexarkana to have planning authority to become a four year university

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2004 – The City of Texarkana, Texas, donates 300 acres of land to build a new campus. The City also commits

A&M-Texarkana President’s Leadership Class representatives (from left to right): Logan Rainey, Lawson Barker, Loren Loftin, Molly Davlin, Anthony Yarber, A&M-Texarkana President Dr. C.B. Rathburn III, Ryan Baker.

to build two accessible routes to the new campus; a western connection from Richmond Rd. and an eastern connection from Summerhill Rd. The Truman and Anita Arnold Foundation donate an adjacent 75 acres of land, bringing the total land gift to 375 acres.

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2006 – Groundbreaking is held for construction of the Science & Technology Building at the new campus

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2008 – The Science & Technology Building is completed. Tuition and revenue bonds totaling $17.5 million were used to construct the building.

Later the same year a groundbreaking was held for the University Center Building.

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2010 – The University Center Building opens representing a $75 million investment. The impressive four story 183,000 square foot building houses a major portion of the university’s operations, including the library and book store. The Physical Plant Building is also finished. The building is a single story 10,000 square foot building that houses security personnel, the Purchasing Department, along with boilers and chillers to service the other buildings.

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2010 (August 26) – The university is transformed into a comprehensive regional university by accepting its first freshman, sophomore and doctoral students

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2010 (August) – Construction begins on the university’s first residence hall, Bringle Lake Village. The first phase of construction will provide 294 beds in fully furnished units that will provide housing for students beginning with the fall 2011 semester. The complex will have studio units, two bedroom/1 bath units and four bedroom/2 bath

Dignitaries assembled for the ribbon cutting of the University Center Building.

units. All units will be furnished and will provide sought after amenities including flat screen televisions, refrigerators and microwave ovens. A large swimming pool will be located in the main courtyard. Housing deposits are currently being accepted.

A college degree is more important now than ever. On the downside, the cost of receiving a college degree continues to escalate.

A&M-Texarkana is very much aware of the high cost of obtaining a college degree. In order to combat the high cost, the university stands ready to assist students who want to obtain a college degree. For starters, the university has the lowest university tuition rates in the state of Texas as well as portions of bordering states. The university offers a wide range of scholarship opportunities. The Anita and Truman Arnold Scholars Program was established by the Arnold family in 2010.

A $10 million investment by the Arnold’s will

forever shape the future of the university by influencing the lives of students for years to come. A wide range of scholarships are available for the upcoming fall semester.

Entering freshman students will earn a $6,000 scholarship over four years. Transfer students may earn up to $1500 per year in scholarship incentives. Students who plan to live in the Bringle Lake Village residence

hall will receive a new ipad and a $1000 scholarship.

According to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, A&M-Texarkana is the second fastest growing university in Texas with a growth rate increase of 28 percent in total student credit hours when comparing fall 2009 to fall 2010. The university has four academic colleges – College of Business, College of Education and Liberal Arts, College of Health and Behavioral Sciences and the College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

Enrollment in the STEM College grew 65 percent between fall 2009 and fall 2010.

Creating a positive learning environment for students, along with a vibrant student life program, provides a solid foundation for students to succeed. Until recently, the university operated as a commuter university. Students would drive to the campus, attend class and then leave campus after class. All of that will change soon. The new residence hall, which opens soon, allows students the opportunity to remain on campus all the time. Statistics show that students who live on campus tend to earn higher GPA scores compared to students who do not live on campus. Recreational/ intramural sports programs have been added to engage students. Fitness classes are available to promote good health. The university has established its first Greek social fraternity; Phi Lambda Chi. Recruitment efforts are underway for the new fraternity.

A&M-Texarkana offers everything a student needs in order to obtain a high quality affordable education. Small class sizes, engaged faculty, online courses, low tuition and a true university experience all add up to success right here in Texarkana.

For more information about A&M-Texarkana, log on to tamut.edu or call 903 223-3064.

Texas A&M University-Texarkana is a proud member of The Texas A&M University System. www.alt-mag.com 19

Angel Fund Foundation

EVENT

WHERE

First Presbyterian Church

WHEN

4/9/11

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1. Suzi Mercy and Kerri Crocker 2. Vicki Deskin and Jo Blackburn 3. Hayes and Lil McClerkin 4. John and Susan Arnold 5. Chuck and Beth Morgan 7. Members of Angel Fund Foundation Board 6. Cancer survivors with members of the Angel Fund Foundation Board

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Fish Tales

Same Song, Same Verse II

I was fortunate enough to qualify for my third BFL All American which will be held on the same lake I fished my first...Cross Lake in Shreveport. I don’t understand why I can’t fish one in...say...New York or in

by Mike Brower Iowa. I seem to qualify for only those that are within 2 ½ hours from the house.

Same Song, Same Verse

W

ell, Tuesday Nite tournaments started last month and they started out the same way as the last few years -- wind, rain, wind, thunder -- did I mention wind? It seems we always have 20-30 mph winds every year at the start. Still, there were 17 teams who braved the weather and fished -- and fishing was not too bad for the evening.

There were two limits brought in and most people caught a few fish.

This is post spawn time and fishing will be slow for a couple more weeks. The fish are resting after spawning and tend to be somewhat hard to catch. As the month progresses they will become more active and will start to settle into a summertime pattern. Then the fun begins. It will take 15-20 lbs to win and lots more fish will be weighed in.

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Well, Cross Lake hasn’t changed over the years. It has a fair amount of fish but also has a slot limit of 14-17 inches. What makes this especially tough is that we are talking about Louisiana, where the people have the mindset that if it bites, it goes in the pan! Forget the slot or bag limit!

Now I’m not bashing the lake but the mindset of the fishermen. Cross Lake could become my new favorite lake if I should win.

Still I’m proud of the opportunity to compete against 52 others from across the country for $100,000. However, I’m most proud of the fact that this I have become a member of a very exclusive club. Only a handful of fishermen have ever qualified for three All Americans. I consider myself very, very lucky for the chance, no matter where it is held.

www.alt-mag.com

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Summer Sports Camps Call today! Camp sessions fill up fast!

Don’t miss this opportunity to improve your sports skills this summer!

Soccer Camps:

Mintons has developed a well-designed program to improve each camper’s soccer skills while having fun doing it. The Camp is loaded with skill lessons that end each day with short scrimmages to allow players to apply what they have learned.

Ages 8-15 June 3rd-5th or July 15th-17th Friday: 5pm-9pm Saturday: 9am-4:00pm Sunday: 1:00pm-4:00pm

Football Camps:

Want to learn football or just improve your game? Learn individual and team techniques on both offense and defense from our Football Staff.

Every player will receive in-depth instruction and demonstrations needed to become a better football player.

Ages 8-15 July 8th-10th or August 12-14th Friday: 5pm-9pm Saturday: 9am-4:00pm Sunday: 1:00pm-4:00pm

Baseball Camps:

No matter if you want to get ahead of the competition or just want to learn the game of baseball, this camp will provide daily instruction that involves working on hitting, fielding and all other fundamentals of the game. You will learn games to play to help increase you’re hitting and pitching skills.

Ages 8-15 June 17th-19th or July 29th-31st Friday: 5pm-9pm Saturday: 9am-4:00pm Sunday: 1:00pm-4:00pm

Basketball Camps:

Basketball at Minton’s emphasizes the progressive skills training of ball handling, shooting, rebounding and defensive positioning. To become a better basketball player, you will play mini games that help develop your skill quicker while cranking up the fun factor.

Ages 8-15 June 10th -12th or July 22nd-24th Friday: 5pm-9pm Saturday: 9am-4:00pm Sunday: 1:00pm-4:00pm

Volleyball Camps:

Each session is designed specifically to stress proper fundamentals and techniques. Through progressive skill building, participants will see major improvement in their performance. The final sessions of training will focus on game application and scrimmages.

Ages 8-15 June 24th-26th or August 5th-7th Friday: 5pm-9pm Saturday: 9am-4:00pm Sunday: 1:00pm-4:00pm

Swim Camps:

Each session is designed to excel with swim teams. In the camp we will be working on the following strokes; freestyle, breaststroke, butterfly and backstroke. Other skills that will be covered are turns and use of equipment.

Ages 8-15 June 27th-July 1st Monday-Friday 1pm-4pm or July 11th- July 15th Monday-Friday 1pm-4pm or July 25th-July 29th Monday-Friday 1pm-4pm

125 on! $ i ly On r sess pe

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Summer Program 5-12 Years Summer Program 6 Wks-4 Yrs Pre-School Program

Hours: 6 a.m. - 7 p.m.

2 Snacks and Lunch Provided Family Membership Included

Summer Sports Include: Cheer Basketball Volleyball Football Softball Soccer Water Safety Call Amy or Cheri to enroll today!

903-838-7671 903-838-4697

r e m Sumr Than e s! t t e B ther O Sign up today and have the best summer ever!

Activities for everyone in the family!

ning i a r T etic l h t A s inton’

M

Minton’s Sportsplex offers a structured strength and conditioning program that provides athletes with performance enhancement training.

We help individuals of all ages achieve their maximum physical performance by focusing on speed, strength, power, flexibility, and balance . Coaches today are looking for the ability to be a complete athlete. Minton’s Sportsplex is the perfect place for your child to gain the competitive edge by training them to jump higher, run faster, and be quicker.

Minton’s tailors their training techniques based on age.

Ages 8-11, basic running and coordination fundamentals are taught. With kids this age having such a short attention span, an emphasis is placed on having fun, while these young athletes learn core ideas based on basic athletic principles.

Ages 12-14, are beginning to develop their bodies. With that, comes the

903.838.4697 mintonssportsplex.com

ability to learn strength and weight techniques. Building on the most basic training from the younger groups, proper form and more repetitions are key with athletes in this age group.

Ages 15 and up begin to work on sport specific training methods.

Having the foundation of form and technique from previous sessions, these athletes are exposed to more extensive methods of training.

Looking for specialized training for the whole team? Minton’s offers team training sessions, which focus on power strength, speed, quickness, gearing to the team’s specific sport.

Utilizing degreed and certified trainers, Minton’s Sportsplex coaches are highly qualified and motivated to ensure that the time spent coaching your child is well spent. Minton’s has state of the art Olympic equipment, along with athletic fields to give students the ideal setting to enhance their speed, strength, and agility.

“Since working out in Mintons Athlete Program, I have noticed a tremendous change in Sheldon’s running. The training program Minton’s created for him is customized to the races he participates in and has helped him to become a much better athlete. Sheldon now has a confidence that is allowing him to find his potential and go beyond it. He is more excited, passionate and dedicated to what he does as a result of his workouts and conditioning.” Darla Moss

“When I first joined Minton’s Sportsplex Athlete Training Program, I had weak core muscles, poor overall body conditioning and very little knowledge of how proper nutrition could increase my athletic abilities.

Now I jump higher, run faster, feel stronger, and I’m more confident in my athletic endeavors thanks to Minton’s Athlete Training Program.” Imani Wright

“I started Minton’s Athlete Training Program when I was in the 7th grade. From a very young age it taught me to be accountable and responsible. I have learned a lot about the dedication that it takes to get stronger and be a better athlete through the Athlete Training Programs at Minton’s. Before I started training, I would’ve never dreamt that I could be a college athlete. Yet, now I’m not only realizing I’ve got what I takes, but I’m realizing that as long as I continue to work hard, I can be a great college athlete. Minton’s Athlete training program has installed a definite “fire” in me to be the best that I can be.” Abby Pickett

5610 Richmond Road www.alt-mag.com 25 Texarkana, TX

Financial Focus...

Submitted by Dustin Stringer Edward Jones Investments

Mortgage Decisions Can Make a Big Difference in Achieving Financial Goals

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f you’re purchasing a new home or refinancing your existing one, you’ve got some mortgage-related decisions to consider. And since your mortgage may well be the biggest financial transaction you ever make — and one that can affect your longterm financial goals, such as retirement — you’ll want to weigh your options carefully.

What types of choices might you face? Here are some of the most important ones: • Fixed or adjustable? With a fixedrate mortgage, your payment will remain the same throughout the life of your loan.

However, if interest rates drop significantly below your mortgage rate, you may then be paying too much for your loan and will have to go through the time, effort and expense of refinancing. With an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM), your initial rate is likely quite low, so you can afford a bigger mortgage. This could be an advantage if you know your income will be rising or you are confident you’ll sell your house within the next five years. However, your ARM payment and interest rate can rise substantially, even with caps in place, and these adjustments can affect your cash flow.

So, before taking out an ARM, make sure you understand the terms involved and how they will affect you down the road.

• 15-year or 30-year? These aren’t the only mortgage lengths available, but they are among the most common. The advantage of a 15-year mortgage is that you’ll pay it off quicker and, in the process, potentially save thousands of dollars in interest. The disadvantage, of course, is that you’ll likely need to come up with much bigger monthly payments than if you took out a 30-year mortgage. And since your mortgage payments will be lower with a 30-year loan, you’ll have more money available each month to invest for the future.

Over time, these extra investments can really add up. Suppose, for example, that you invested $100 a month to a tax-deferred vehicle, such as a traditional IRA, that earned a hypothetical 7% average annual return.

After 30 years, you’d end up with a little more than $117,000, before you started paying taxes on withdrawals. But if your 30-year mortgage freed up enough cash for you to contribute $300 a month to that same IRA, earning that same 7% average annual return, you’d accumulate more than $350,000 after 30 years, before taxes . That’s a big difference — and the extra money could perk up your retirement lifestyle considerably.

Keep in mind, of course, that these examples don’t reflect the performance of any available investments. Also, you will have to pay taxes when you start taking withdrawals from a traditional IRA, and any withdrawals you make before you turn age 59½ might be subject to a 10% penalty.

• Larger or smaller down payment? The bigger your down payment, the smaller your monthly payments, and the more you may have available to invest each month.

But if you go with a smaller down payment, you most likely will initially have more money available for other purposes, such as paying down debt or purchasing investments. You’ll have to compare the alternatives carefully.

In fact, you’ll have to compare the options for each question we’ve looked at because mortgage

issues have an emotional component as well as a financial one, and only you can make the decisions that fit your situation. So think about your choices today, as they can have a big impact on your life tomorrow.

Edward Jones, its employees and Financial Advisors are not estate planners and cannot provide tax or legal advice.

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It’s Your Day!

Personalize your wedding with these great ideas!

Resource Guide

Find the vendors you need to make your wedding dreams come true!

Spring/Summer 2011

S P R I N G 2 0 11 / c o n t e n t s

REAL WEDDINGS

ENGAGEMENTS

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Emily Fruge to Norman Cook

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Kaitlin Freeman to Brandon McDowell

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Christina and Aaron Beebe

HELPFUL INFO

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Brock and Kimberly McCorkle

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I t ’ s Yo u r D a y .

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Donnie and Shelly Morton

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Cheers.

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S h a r e t h e J o y o f Yo u r W e d d i n g W i t h C h a r i t y

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Southern Charm

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Wedding Planner

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Resource Guide

Abby Long to Danny Lows

Make It Personal.

P r e p a r i n g f o r t h e W e d d i n g To a s t

Publisher and Editor / Debbie Brower Associate Editors / Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson

k / COVER

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Photography / Image Forward Photography, Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson, Rozana Page Sales & Marketing Manager / Charlie McMurphy

Emily and Norm Cook celebrated their wedding in Playa Del Carmen with family and friends.

Contributing Writers / Arwen McDaniel

w w w. a l t - m a g . c o m Right: Kaitlin and Brandon McDowell chose their hometown to seal their vows.

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info@alt-mag.com 200 Heather Dr., Texarkana, TX 75501 (903) 334-9605

©2011 ALT Magazine

Emily & Norman Emily Fruge to Norman Cook Jr.

March 12, 2011 Royal Resort Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

How They Met...

Norman asked Emily to two-step and after a while she finally agreed. The two danced all night, and the very next day they went on their first date. The couple has been together ever since!

spent the whole night with their friends and family and all of their dogs. At the end of the night Norm and Emily were driving home with their two dogs, Izzy and Hercules, in the backseat. Norm began talking about how much he loved their “little family.” He continued to talk to Emily while they were sitting in the driveway of their new house.

Then, when Emily started to get out of the truck, Norm asked her if she knew where the receipt to something was. It was really off subject Emily thought, and it caught her off guard. Norm asked Emily to look for the receipt in the truck console. When she opened it, Emily discovered the ring box!

Norm took the ring out and asked Emily to marry him so their “little family” would be complete. Emily happily said yes!

The Proposal...

The Wedding...

Emily and Norm went to Emily’s sister’s house in Texarkana on the 4th of July to grill out with friends and pop fireworks. They

When the couple started talking about the wedding, they knew two things that they HAD to have: photography by Image Forward and

Emily and Norm met through mutual friends when they were out one night in Texarkana.

Emily was in town for the Christmas break of her senior year at the University of Arkansas.

Emily and Norm talked for a few hours and realized they both loved the Arkansas Razorbacks, football, dancing, and even though they had never met, up until Emily left for college, she and Norm had lived only 15 miles from each other their whole lives!

a laid back wedding with as little stress as possible! Norm and Emily finally decided on a destination wedding. The Royal Resort in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico was the best fit for them! Looking back, Emily says, “Not only was it a fun way to go on a vacation and have the wedding and honeymoon together, but it made our wedding unique and stressfree. Plus, we got the photos we wanted because Image Forward came with us!”

Wedding Party...

Parents of the Bride: Dr Max & Teresa Fruge Parents of the Groom: Jimmeye & James Moore, and Norman Cook Sr. Maid of Honor: Anne Fruge Best Man: Pete Ellison www.alt-mag.com

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Photography: Image Forward Photography www.imageforwardweddings.com Bridal Portrait Bouquet Florist: Jennifer Crawford -Twisted Vines Wedding Dress: Reed’s Bridal Bridal Portrait Hair Stylist: Regan Dunlap, The Cutting Company *Food & Wedding day flowers provided by the Royal.

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by Arwen McDaniel

The door chimes a happy greeting as you enter Reed’s Bridal and your eyes are delighted by the rainbow of colors announcing prom season. The lace and mermaid cut wedding dresses glisten pure white. Excited women twirl in the mirror as they prepare for one of the happiest days of their lives.

In 1995, when Blanche Reed’s son was getting married she struck up a friendship with the lady, Sandy Reed (no relation) who altered her dress. This was the “beginning of a beautiful friendship,” to quote Humphrey Bogart. The two combined 15 years after Blanche opened her store.

Sandy, to this day, still performs alterations for Reed’s Bridal. The circumstances have changed, however, as Sandy is business partners with her daughter Kelly Hoffman, as Blanche retired. The new Reed’s have been owners since 2005 when Kelly quit her registered nurse job in Plano and moved home to go into this business venture with her mother.

Kelly has thrown herself into her new position as owner and knows all the trends of this season for prom and wedding. For prom the brand that is most popular among the young ladies of Texarkana is Karishma Creations. Kelly stated that she has sold over 100 prom dresses of this brand alone!

The styles that are most popular include

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mermaid, ruffled, Grecian and hi-lows. The bridal and pageant line of this brand will be arriving in the early fall of this year and Kelly expects it to be as popular as the prom line.

Though Reed’s has not seen a dominate color for prom, she says that psychedelic colors and wild animal prints are in.

Wedding colors for the bride are traditional and of Reed’s dresses for the bride come in white, ivory and a champagne tone. Da Vinci and Forever Yours are the top two selling bridal brands. Reed’s has seen the “sexy styles” of bridal gowns make a comeback. They have many brides this season wearing mermaid style gowns. The most popular color of her 70 color choices for bridesmaid dresses has been black.

Reed’s carries a line exclusive to their store that is for the voluptuous bride and bridesmaids as well.

A feature unique to Reed’s is that 90% of the veils are hand made by Reed’s. Veils this season are sheer but only 50 percent of brides are wearing them. The other 50% wear a feather or flower in their hair “on the side with their hair in a bun.” Kelly stated she is also selling “birdcage” veils and pillbox styles.

The full line of Aurora prom and bridal will arrive in June and has “a quality dedication” to detail that is slim to none according to Kelly.

Kelly carries and styles of pageant dresses for the age of six months to adults. She has lines that are suited to the glitz pageants to “natural” pageants.

Reed’s carries a full tuxedo department for the prom date, groom, and groomsmen.

From Perry Ellis to Ralph Lauren, you can get it at Reed’s.

Kelly contributes the success of Reed’s to the power of prayer. Her family is her biggest supporter as well. She is married to Bryan and has one son. She has a deep relationship with her minister, Father Malachi, and a great working relationship with her mother. The philosophy at Reed’s is to guide the young lady to the best look for her by being as “honest as a sister” while being “kind” and also “having a blast”.

Kelly states that every girl has the right to “play dress up.” Enjoy a visit to Reed’s Monday through Friday, 10 am to 5:30 pm, and Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm. You can visit their website www.reedsbridal.com to see their full line of dresses.

Blanche Reed opened her dream bridal store thirty years ago and styles have changed but the joy of going to prom, winning a pageant crown, and being a bride is a tradition that Reed’s understands and celebrates.

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Kaitlin & Brandon Kaitlin Freeman to Brandon McDowell

October 16, 2010 Ramage Farms

The Beginning...

Kaitlin and Brandon have known each other, through mutual friends, since high school, but a connection was never made between them because they were always dating other people. After Kaitlin came back from college at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, she ran into Brandon and a friend at a store. Brandon and the friend invited Kaitlin over for a cookout, but she never made it.

Kaitlin really regretted not going because she thought Brandon was really cute! A few days later, Kaitlin contacted the mutual friend and asked him arrange a double date with him and his girlfriend and she and Brandon.

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After this first date, Brandon and Kaitlin were hooked!

After dating for over a year, the couple had talked about getting engaged several times, but Kaitlin had no idea that Brandon actually had a ring! Katlin always teased him saying “There is no way you have a ring because you wouldn’t be able to keep it and not give it to me.” But much to her surprise, Brandon had the ring for about 6 months before he ever proposed.

The Proposal...

Brandon proposed at a friend’s house in front of lots of his and Kaitlin’s close friends. “He popped the question at the end of the night out of no where,” Kaitlin remembers. No one at the get together knew he was going to do it; they were as surprised as she was!

Brandon had asked for Kaitlin’s father’s permission a week before and intended to ask propose on Valentine’s Day, but he never could find the perfect time, and he figured Kaitlin would be expecting it, “Which I was!”

Kaitlin admits. After Brandon proposed to Kaitlin, he gave her a Bible that had what would be her new name printed on the cover.

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Wedding Party...

Maid of Honor: Erin Easley Matron of Honor: Holly Hickerson Bridesmaids: Anna Moore Laura Binne Julianna Register Best Man: Cole Simpson Groomsmen: Aaron Pope Jay Freeman Daniel Perry Brandon Kennedy Ushers: Dusty Hickerson Rickey Gates Adam Gates Brandon Gates Ring Bearers: John David Cass Tye Mooneyhan Flower Girl: Hadley Hickerson Pastor: Dianne Brown Parents of the Bride: Butch & Barbara Kidd and Mike Freeman Parents of Groom: Bob & Kim Gates and Bobby McDowell

Photography: Image Forward Photography www.imageforwardweddings.com Bride’s Cake and Dessert: Silver Spoon Catering: Silver Spoon Florist: Ruth’s Flowers & Twisted Vines Party Rentals: The Big Event Band: Richard Stuart and the One Night Stand Band Bride’s and Bridesmaids’ Gowns: Low’s Bridal in Brinkley, Arkansas Tuxes: Squires Bride’s Hair: Millie O’Corr

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by Arwen McDaniel

This year Bridal Castle and Tuxedo Place had a very special sale--their first “third generation” bridal family. A current bride, her mother, and her grandmother all bought their dresses from Bridal Castle.

Bridal Castle has been in business for 40 years this year. They have sold thousands of prom, pageant, bridesmaid, wedding dresses, tuxedos, shoes and veils over the years.

In 1971 Dorothy Schelkopf opened Bridal Castle on New Boston Road. She enjoyed the brides she worked with at the family business of Gaunt’s flowers and decided that helping young ladies find the perfect dress is what she wanted to do, and she did.

Vickie Landreth, daughter of Dorothy, has been the proprietress of Bridal Castle since 1983.

Landreth stated that her current best-selling bridesmaid dress brand is Alfred Angelo, and that they have sold it since the opening day of business.

Bridal Castle prom dresses are selling fast now in every color. She also stated that she is selling many hi-low dresses but that “anything” goes. Hi-low dresses are short in the front, but long in the back. She says, “It is very exciting,” that the girls can be their “unique, individual self” this year. Brands that are popular are Sherri Hill, Jovani, and Tony Bowls.

The brides of Bridal Castle get to enjoy the exclusivity of the brand Maggie Sottero.

Brides can also choose from many other brands including Alfred Angelo. The crystals on the bridal gowns are sparkly and clear, casting rainbows in a subtle way around the

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room. A trend that she is sees for brides this spring and summer is the mermaid shape; not large skirts. For veils, the trend is to one layer veils that are sheer with no blushers; Flowers, feathers and small head pieces are being worn a lot.

Bridesmaid’s also have a large selection at Bridal Castle. With over 55 colors and an wide amount of styles, “bright colors” are in, as well as “short dresses”. Lime and fuchsia are being seen as well as combination-color dresses.

One combination that stood out in Landreth’s mind was “pistachio and persimmon.”

Accessory wise, what is in now? “Pave!”

Landeth stated, without hesitating for a moment. She stated every jewelry piece is a pave cut crystal.

Bridal Castle also sells to pageant contestants.

Landreth’s experience having been involved since 1983 as a board member and former executive director for Miss Texarkana is invaluable. She stated that she truly believes in the Miss America system as it is the number one scholarship system for women in the United States and that pageants are “very strong here.” Landreth believes that being “on stage helps [the contestants] later in life, helps them to spontaneously speak in public.”

Bridal Castle carries dresses for pageant costumes for contestants from as young as 3 months. She has worked with Sunni Cranfill, Stacy James, and Hadley Smith in their winning pageant careers. Landreth also stated that white tends to be the winning color because stages are now lit with halogen lights which makes the skin glow. The judges, “don’t want to see the dress first [they] want to see the total picture.”

Tuxedo Palace carries tuxedos and vests in an array of colors for men. Traditional tuxedos are popular, but chocolate brown tuxedo styles and light brown suit coat styles are “very strong.”

Bridal Castle does carry camo pattern vests and ties for you hunters and soon to be wives of hunters.

In addition to her work at their Texarkana location, Landreth has helped design gowns in the past for Sweetheart Gowns in New York.

Dorothy flew to Boca Raton to work with Alfred Angelo. Brides’ Magazine and Modern Bride have come to Texarkana to meet with Landreth and see the four states area.

When Landreth is not at Bridal Castle she is with her family. She has been married to her husband Al for 35 years. They have two adult children and two grandchildren. The family enjoys their cabin in Hot Springs and the horse races.

Landreth believes that Bridal Castle has been a success for forty years because of the “involvement of each staff member with planning the special day.” For a high school student “prom is the most important day in her life” and we are a part of that. When they pick up their senior prom dress she stated that she has been known to say, “We’ll see you in a few years for your wedding dress!”

The ladies of Bridal Castle help women fulfill their dreams by helping women select the gowns that define the moments of their life.

To see Bridal Castle’s selection you can visit them Monday through Friday from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm and Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm at 3209 Kennedy Lane.

Custom Initial Monogram Stickers make the perfect embellishment for your wedding favor boxes and bags! Choose from many different designs and styles and find a look that really carries out the look and feel of your wedding!

Guests will take note of the little things!

Found at: www.blissweddingsmarket.com

Personalized, hand-painted signs are a fun way to make your wedding day a little more unique. Direct your wedding guests to the ceremony, reception, photo booth, bar or even the candy bar! These great vintage, cottage-style signs can be customized and hung or propped in a place where all your guests will be sure to take notice!

Found at: www.etsy.com/shop/MyPrimitiveBoutique

This custom round memory vase could be the perfect touch to any table arrangement! Simply submit up to 24 photos of you and your soon-to-be spouse and let the magic begin! A personal note and date can also be inscribed on the bottom of the vase!

Found at: www.uncommongoods.com

These chalkboard jars are available in a gallon or a half gallon size. Use them for your dessert station or even as a way to display your wedding favors! Use colored chalk to write the lables and carry on your wedding color scheme!

Found at: www.pier1.com

Your favorite of the many unusual Jones Soda flavors + an adorable photo of you and your sweetheart printed on every label = a perfect touch of personalization for your big day! Custom Jones Sodas will bring an element of fun to your menu, no doubt!

Found at: www.jonessoda.com

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Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. When therefore He heard that he was sick, He stayed then two days longer in the place where He was. John 11:5-6

T

he urgent message came to Jesus. His good friend Lazarus was very sick and needed Him ASAP. Surely Jesus, the One who would drop everything to go heal complete strangers, would come running to Lazarus’ town of Bethany to save the day, right? Wrong! When Jesus heard Lazarus was deathly ill, He purposely waited two more days before making the twenty mile journey to Bethany. By the time He finally arrived, Lazarus was stinking dead and in the tomb four days.

Mary and Martha, the sisters of Lazarus, both said the same thing when Jesus showed up, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died” (John 11:21, 32). Undoubtedly, they were wondering WHY He didn’t come in time. Undoubtedly, they were shellshocked at the message He sent, “This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified by it” (John 11:4). What in the world could that possibly mean given the fact that Lazarus died the very day Jesus uttered those words? Is this some cruel joke?

To be sure, the Lord wasn’t making much sense to Mary and Martha. Have you ever been there? Have you ever prayed about a problem and believed God for deliverance only to have the problem worsen … even to the point of death, or divorce, or bankruptcy? Have you ever cried out to God in faith and seemingly received nothing from Him to meet your pressing need? I think we can all relate.

Hey, what do you do when God doesn’t make sense?

1. You remember that He loves you. Before the Bible tells us that Jesus purposely waited two more days before coming to Bethany, it emphatically states, “Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus” (John 11:4). Just because the Lord does not do things the way you and I think He should, that does not mean the Lord has stopped loving us. God is love and everything He does flows from His great heart of love. When God’s actions and delays don’t make sense to us, we must cling to the fact that He loves us. The Bible declares it again and again,

and the blood-stained cross of Christ proves it beyond any shadow of a doubt.

2. You trust that He has a plan. Jesus purposely waited until Lazarus was dead four days before coming to Bethany. Why in the world would He do that? He did it because He was going to perform His greatest miracle of all, the raising of Lazarus from the grave. Jesus had raised two other people from the dead (Jairus’ daughter, freshly dead in her bed and the guy from Nain, hours dead and in a casket on the way to the cemetery), but He never called a four-day-old dead man back to life from the tomb. That miracle proved He was indeed “the resurrection and the life.” It was irrefutable evidence that Jesus was and is God in the flesh.

Jesus knew exactly what He was doing when He delayed His coming. While it would have been a great blessing to have him heal Lazarus from his sick bed, it was a miracle of the highest order to have Him raise decaying Lazarus from the grave.

WHAT ARE YOU FACING TODAY?

Perhaps you are facing great problems today. Although you have been praying, God does not seem to be answering. Your tears are flowing, your faith is fleeing, and you are sitting bewildered at the Lord’s absence. What gives?

Listen, it may be day three for you and your situation. But I have good news: The Lord is on His way with jaw-dropping, miraculous victory in tow. Day four is coming! You see, the greater the problem, the greater the miracle God is getting ready to perform.

Of course He doesn’t make sense to you and me. He is the infinite God who sees all and knows all, from beginning to end.

Whatever the trouble, remember His love and keep trusting Him, regardless of the current circumstances. He knows exactly what He is doing, and He really will work all things together for your good and His glory!

Jeff Schreve Pastor www.fromhisheart.org jeff@fromhisheart.org

Jeff Schreve is Senior Pastor of FBC Texarkana (www.fbctexarkana.org) and Founder of From His Heart Ministries (www.fromhisheart.org).

Regional Arts Center

available for RENT!

Centerfold for BancorpSouth Then a Regional Arts Center ad May 21st celebration ad 1-3pm Ice Cream Social/half summer classes ad for Arts on Main

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new r u ee o ED s e Com XPAND M! E OO R W SHO

Why is Oak Creek Furniture Different?

We have chosen Amish furniture craftsmen who are recognized leaders in the solid wood furniture industry. Amish furniture is made by hand in small Amish wood shops so every piece of furniture receives the same attention to detail. Our Amish handcrafted furniture is built to last.

Why all the fuss about details?

Because the Amish craftsmen build furniture that your children and grandchildren will be proud to inherit. Come see our Amish-built bedroom furniture and oak dining room furniture. The selection of the boards and the grade of the hard wood, along with dovetailed drawers, mortise-and-tenon construction and the multi-step finish are all just small parts of the build process that add up to an heirloom quality piece of oak or cherry furniture.

Did you know...

That most of the furniture made today uses substitute materials such as particleboard. Because particleboard is made from wood fragments bonded with resin, it is considered an all wood product BUT IT IS NOT solid wood.

Our Amish furniture is made of SOLID Oak, Cherry, Maple, Hickory or Quartersawn Oak.

Lasting elegance...

There is no better place to sit for a meal than around Amish dining room furniture. Amish dining room furniture is made for a family to sit around and enjoy not just the meal, but each other’s company, as well. All of our dining room furniture is sturdy and durable - your family and future generations of your family will be able to sit at and around our dining room furniture for years to come.

Gre a Mot t gifts her ’ f s Da or y!

Friday, May 13th and Saturday, May 14, 2011 Thanks to all our wonderful customers, it has been another great year! We have appreciated providing wonderful people with quality heirlooms!

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Amish Builders will be here on Friday and Saturday, May 13th and 14th! Let them show you the great features and take advantage of their discounts on new orders placed during our anniversary sale! Special financing available!! Hurry in for the best deals!

Come see our new showroom space, featuring furniture for every room of your home!

A variety of new food items for sampling, as well as fresh ground almond and peanut butter made in our own mill! All fresh, wholesome and

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F Hom REE Ice emad e Cre am!

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Following our attendance at the annual Amish furniture show in Indiana, we have many new displays, including

Bedroom Suits, Living Room Furniture, and an Executive Office Collection.

Several of last year’s displays will be

discounted 20% - 40% off!!

Our special sale runs May 7th through 14th, 2011!

Free Homemade Ice Cream will be served on Saturday, May 14th! All you can eat!!

healthy!

Polywood Outdoor Furniture...

At Oak Creek Furniture, you will find many different styles of polywood furniture. The material used is water and weather resistant, and most importantly, created from recycled polyethylene. For this reason, our polywood lawn furniture is

considered a green product.

There is no maintenance required, no cracking or splinting, and the polywood material does not promote bacterial growth or mildew.

Choose from seven different colors and products such as swings, gliders, benches, deck chairs, table & chair sets, bridges and footrests.

1. DO plan ahead. A lot of people make the mistake of assuming they will be able

to successfully “wing it” when the big moment comes for them to stand and make a toast.

The truth is, most people will choke when they realize everyone’s eyes are on them, and what should have been a special and meaningful speech becomes a rambling mess! Brain storm in advance. Write out a few key phrases you want to say a week or so ahead of time. If you plan to use a note card for your toast, clearly write out or type up some short bullet point reminders to keep you on track!

2. DO practice. Practicing out loud will assist you in memorizing the things you want to say. This will be helpful when nerves kick in later! You might also consider having a test run with someone else who is close to the couple you will be toasting. This way you can work together to weed out anything that might not go over well with the couple or the other guests!

3. DO identify yourself. Remember that there will be people there who don’t know who you are or your relationship to the couple. Keep your introduction brief! Remember this is your opportunity to toast the bride and groom- not to hog the spotlight with your life story!

4. DO toast from the heart. Use a personal story or memory to break the ice.

Tell the bride and/or groom how they have impacted your life. This is your chance to make everyone laugh… and cry! You may not know one member of the couple very well, but make sure you say something genuine about the bride and the groom. The wedding is about the couple and both parties should be recognized in your toast, even if all you can say is how stunning they look!

5. DO NOT embarrass the couple. A lot of people cross the line when trying to get a laugh from the crowd. There is a difference in funny and embarrassing! Also, don’t be crude or off-color. Remember there will be people of all ages and backgrounds in the audience so keep your speech clean and polite!

6. DO NOT ramble. Keep your toast between 2-4 minutes. Nine times out of ten, even if you are a good speaker, after about 5 minutes you will begin to lose the attention of the audience. Short and sweet is the way to go!

7. DO NOT get drunk before the toast. You should limit yourself

to one drink before you give your speech. While you may be less nervous after a few drinks, you are more likely to be embarrassingly emotional. You are also more likely to ramble. When you agree to give a toast, it becomes your duty to lay-off cocktail hour!

8. DO NOT refuse to participate. If you have extreme fright

when it comes to public speaking, look for a compromise with the couple. Ask if you can give your toast at the rehearsal dinner instead of in front of the larger wedding reception crowd. If you are a non-drinker, have your champagne flute filled with water or something with no alcohol. It is good manners to take a sip after the toast is given so make sure you are prepared with a beverage you can be comfortable drinking!

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Selecting items for a wedding registry is one of the most exciting things about being a bride.

There is something really fun about knowing that you are going to LOVE your wedding gifts... because YOU chose them!

But what if you and your soon-to-be spouse already have many of the typical items that are asked for on a registry?

Have you ever wondered if there might be something you could ask for from your guests rather than dishes, towels and bed sheets?

Modern brides and grooms are branching out from the traditional registry and using their time in the spotlight to make a big difference!

The awesome concept of a Charity Registry has been made available online at: www.weddingchannel.com

How does a Charity Registry Work?

A Charity Registry allows your wedding guests to donate to the organization of your choice as their wedding gift to you! You can easily create a registry like this online at: www.weddingchannel.com

What Charities are Available?

American Cancer Society American Heart Association American Red Cross Big Brothers/Big Sisters of America Boys and Girls Club of America Habitat For Humanity International Humane Society of the United States Leukemia and Lymphoma Society National Center for Victims of Crime National Wildlife Federation The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation And Many More.... www.alt-mag.com

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Add Character and Charm to your Southern Wedding with these initial engraved Wedding Pin Boutonnieres!

Where we found them: www.etsy.com/shop/braggingbags

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WE D DING PLANNER Use this checklist to help you keep everything organized and ready for your big day! All the details make the difference!

Nine to Twelve Months Before • Announce your engagement.

• Set an initial budget.

• Select a wedding date and time.

• Select and book your ceremony and reception locations.

• Book photographer and videographer.

• Book caterer.

• Book florist.

• Determine who will officiate at the ceremony.

• Set aside blocks of hotel/motel rooms for out-of-town guests.

• Book band or DJ. • Sign up for your church’s premarriage counseling, if required.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Six to Nine Months Before • Start compiling the guest list.

• Select the attendants for your wedding party.

• Purchase the bride’s gown.

• Purchase the groom’s tuxedo.

• Purchase bridesmaids’ dresses.

• Arrange for transportation for the wedding. Limousines, Horse & Carriage, vans, etc.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Four to Six Months Before • Check requirements for blood test and marriage license in your state.

• Select and order the invitations and stationery.

• Make sure all the men’s attire has been ordered.

• Complete the guest lists.

• Send your engagement announcement to the newspaper.

• Finalize honeymoon details.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Two to Four Months Before • Confirm the menu and catering details with the caterer.

• Prepare all maps and directions for the ceremony and reception.

• Select your wedding rings.

• Buy a wedding guest book.

• Set the dates and times with the officiant for the rehearsal.

• Plan the bridesmaids’ luncheon and any other parties.

• Determine your resources for designing and printing the program for the ceremony.

• Arrange the necessary accommodations for out-of-town guests.

• Plan a rehearsal dinner, time and place.

• Confirm the wedding cake details with the baker.

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Six to Eight Weeks Before • Mail invitations and announcements.

• Set appointment with photographer for your formal bridal portrait.

• Select gifts for all your attendants.

• Set appointments with any hairdressers and/or makeup artists.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Four to Six Weeks Before • Decide what your menu is going to be for the reception.

• Buy a gift for the groom.

• Purchase (borrow) all wedding accessories such as the ring pillow, goblets, garter belt, candles, etc.

• Choose the music for your ceremony, first dance, parent dances, and party and give information to band, dj, or other musicians.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Two Weeks Before • Make arrangements to have your wedding gifts moved to your new home.

• Handle business and legal details such as name changes, address changes, etc.

• Get your marriage license and any blood tests which are needed.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------One Week Before • Start packing for your honeymoon.

• Give a final head count to the caterer.

• Delegate responsibilities to reliable individuals on your wedding day.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------One Day Before • Get a manicure or massage to relax yourself.

• Review and rehearse all the details of your participants.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Big Day • Allow yourself plenty of time to get dressed.

• Be sure to eat properly.

• Rest and relax with a good bath.

• Prepare for your hairdresser and makeup appointments.

• Enjoy your wonderful wedding and cherish each and every moment!

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Making life better... from the ground up.

W

ondering if there is anything you can do with that worn and unattractive concrete patio or driveway? Building an outdoor kitchen and interested in having concrete countertops, cabinet cases and flooring?

Remodeling your home and looking for a rich, beautiful and unique floor covering?

Want to put your logo in concrete at the entry to your business?

Consider decorative concrete!

strength of cement with the durability and bonding power of polymers and acrylics. Colors are added to enhance the beauty of these durable products.

Stains and dyes, along with engraving equipment are used to score decorative patterns into your existing concrete surfaces. A penetrating cure and seal is applied to provide superb durability, weather and UV resistance and ensure a long product life.

Gooding Decorative Decorative concrete overlays Concrete’s and staining mission is to

by Gooding transform your Decorative existing concrete Concrete can by providing transform your outstanding existing concrete customer service, into beautiful, delivering one-of-a-kind excellent results surfaces. and employing Using overlays talented and and stamps, dedicated men Ask us about our water features for your home or and women. stains and dyes, office! pigmented Marshall concrete sealers Gooding, owner, and epoxies, templates and engraving has extensive experience in the … and your imagination … you no construction industry. His interest in longer need to tear out, hide or cover the industry began with the influence your worn and unattractive concrete. of his mother, Ann Gooding, an We can transform it into a beautiful and durable surface.

The overlay systems combine the

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Marshall Gooding, Owner

interior designer. He has built homes, cabinets, furniture, arbors, and water features. Our staff, including Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, and Miranda Williams, all graphic designers, have a combined total of more than 30 years of experience. Christian Cisneros and Peter Johnson complete the staff.

Gooding Decorative Concrete is a small family owned and operated contractor business specializing in staining, engraving, overlaying and stamping established concrete. The business center is located in Texarkana, Texas, with easy access to all residential and commercial sites in the Ark-La-Tex and surrounding area.

Gooding Decorative Concrete makes it possible for customers to convert their dreams and ideas into plans. We take those plans and convert our customer’s dreams into reality.

For a free estimate, give us a call. We’d love to talk with you!

Other companies may talk about experience -- our quality shows in our work!

Ark-La-Tex Resource

Guide

Air and Heating Central Air 450 S. Kings Highway Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.1212 Alterations Bea’s Alterations 2917 N. Stateline Ave. Texarkana, TX 903-792-2955 Apartments Legacy at Pleasant Grove 5911 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 888.763.2676

Richmond Oaks Apartments 2815 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.832.6150 Summerhill Woods Apartments 4501 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.793.7888 Westwood Apartments 101 Redwater Rd. Wake Village, TX 903.832.8446 Attire Abby Gayle’s 4012 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0088

Gayle’s 4059 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0056 Banks Guaranty Bond Bank 2202 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.792.8600

Fuzzy’s Tacos 4809 Texas Blvd.

Texarkana, TX 903.791.8226

Cakes Coldstone Creamery 4228 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.838.2653

Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354

Reception Arts Becky Risinger Ashdown, AR 870.898.5273 Silver Spoon 5530 Scottsdale Drive Texarkana, TX 75503 903.838.4648 www.silverspooninc.com

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Culinary Creations Pam Elliott 903.831.4674

Texar Federal Credit Union Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.223.5626

Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354

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Caterers Chappo’s Italian Restaurant 1617 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 75501 903.791.1726

La Fogata 3401 Genoa Road Texarkana, Ar 870.773.1879 Silver Spoon 5530 Scottsdale Drive Texarkana, TX 75503 903.838.4648 www.silverspooninc.com Smokey Joe’s BBQ 300 W. New Boston Road Nash, TX 903.223.8227

Timothy’s 4115 N. Kings Highway Texarkana, TX 903.831.5999

Minton’s Sportsplex 5610 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 903.838.4697

Twisted Vines 406 N. Stateline Avenue Texarkana, AR 870-772-2700

Wendy’s 4201 Stateline Avenue Texarkana, TX 2902 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 3737 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 1615 N. Hervey Hope, AR 124 N. Loop Highway 59 Atlanta, TX

Flooring G&A Carpet 1019 N. Kings Highway Nash, TX 903.832.0553

Furniture

Wingstop 2700 Richmond Road, Suite 14A1 Texarkana, TX 903.255.0090 4501 N. State Line, No. 106 Texarkana, TX 903.792.9464 www.wingstop.com Clothing Abby Gayle’s 4012 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0088 Gayle’s 4059 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0056 Cosmetic Surgery Carmony Oral, Facial and Dental Center 5305 Cowhorn Creek Texarkana, TX 903.791.8405

Lighthouse Flooring 6223 Mall Dr. Nash, TX 903.793.2047 Florists H&N Floral 7801 N. State Line 5708 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.794.1417 903.832.2000 Queen City Floral Highway 59 North Queen City, TX 903.796.2891 Ruth’s Flowers 3501 Texas Bllvd.

Texarkana, TX 903.793.6711 www.ruthsflowers.net Scooter Raney, J. Brown for the Home 121 College Drive Texarkana, TX 903.793.4114

Oak Creek Furniture 8024 West 7th St. Texarkana, TX 903.832.0793

Scooter Raney at J. Brown for the Home 121 College Drive Texarkana, TX 903.793.4114 Table Manners 3205 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.838.3538

Gifts Dot’s Ace Hardware 3411 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.838.0059 H&N Floral 7801 N. State Line 5708 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.794.1417 903.832.2000 Lane’s Gifts & Collectibles 720 Realtor Ave. Texarkana, AR 870.773.2123 Mixing Bowl 4014 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.794.4014 Queen City Floral Highway 59 North Queen City, TX 903.796.2891

Dry Cleaning Holiday Cleaners Locations throughout Texarkana Area 870.773.4072 Event Locations Garrison Gardens Texarkana, AR 71854 870.773.0275 www.garrisongardens.net The Pavillion at Elk Meadow 8 Miles West of New Boston on I-30 382 PR 42042 DeKalb, TX 75559 903.319.5130 Prissy Chrissy Ranch 915 FM 2148 South Texarkana, TX 75501 903.838.6121 www.prissychrissy.com Regional Arts Center Cabe Hall 321 W. 4th Street Texarkana, TX 75501 903.792.8681 www.trahc.org Fitness Centers Anytime Fitness Richmond Road 3415 Richmond Road.

Texarkana, TX 75503 903.794.5348

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Twisted Vines 406 N. Stateline Avenue Texarkana, AR 870-772-2700 Hair Care Headmasters Hair Salon 3703 Mall Drive Texarkana, TX 903.832.6261 Style Studio Lisa Harris 3201 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.1719 Hospice Dierksen Hospice 6500 N. Summerhill Road, Suite 2B Texarkana, TX 903.793.6350 Hospitals Christus St. Michael Health System 2600 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.614.1000 Health South Rehabilitation 515 West 12th St. Texarkana, TX 903.793.0088 Wadley Hospital 1000 Pine St. Texarkana, TX 903.798.8000

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Hotels Best Western Texarkana Inn & Suites 5219 Crossroads Parkway Texarkana, AR 870.774.1534 Clarion Lacross Hotel 5100 N. Stateline Ave. Texarkana, AR 870.774.3521 www.lacrosse-hotel.com Courtyard by Marriott 5001 North Cowhorn Creek Texarkana, TX 903.334.7400 Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott 4209 Mall Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.838.1000 Holiday Inn Express & Suites 4545 Cowhorn Creek Road Texarkana, TX 903.223.0008 TownePlace Suites by Marriott 5020 North Cowhorn Creek Texarkana, TX 903.334.8800 Insurance Brian Purtle Allstate Insurance 3301 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.832.5881

Elite Insurance Tammy McDowell 1705 N. Kings Highway Nash, TX 903.794.0000

Micah’s Jewelers 2812 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 903.735.2336

Farm Bureau Insurance 4140 McKnight Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.838.8707

Make-up Gayle’s 4059 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0056

Greg Cockerell State Farm Insurance 4807 Texas Blvd.

Texarkana, TX 75503 903.793.7502

Salon Visage Esthetique Mary Ann Robbins 4506 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.794.4007

Kelli Ashbrook State Farm Insurance 3410 Moores Lane Texarkana, TX 75503 903.223.8100 www.kelliashbrook.com

Sanctuary Kimberly Parham, M.D. 3502 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.334.8661

Ron Morrow State Farm Insurance 3306 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 75503 903.832.5505 www.ronmorrowagency.com Jewelers Alexander’s Jewelers 3701 Mall Drive Texarkana, TX 903.832.3557 Blue Isle Expressions 3402 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 903.791.9992

Medical Equipment Respiratory Solutions 3101 Kennedy Lane, Suite 1000 Texarkana, TX 75503 903.793.2110 Pet Groomer Bows & Tows 254 E. New Boston Rd. Nash, TX 75570 903.223.3647 Photographer Image Forward Photography 200 Heather Dr. Texarkana, TX 75501 903.334.9605 www.imageforwardtxk.com

Physicians Express Care 5483 Summerhill Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.223.5931 Ly Gaylor, M.D. Dermatologist Collom & Carney Clinic 5002 Cowhorn Creek Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.614.3006 Jon Northam, M.D. 6 Woodmont Crossing Texarkana, TX 903.791.1044 Trevor Swanson, D.C. Advanced Spine, Sports & Rehab 4206 Richmond Place Texarkana, TX 903.792.2060 806 West Main St. Atlanta, TX 903.796.2060 Mark Wren, M.D. Physiatrist 3510 Richmond Road, Suite 400 Texarkana, TX 75503 903.831.6275 Vision Source 4401 Morris Lane Texarkana, TX 903.838.9063 Plumbing Central Air/Roto Rooter 450 S. Kings Highway Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.1212 Real Estate Connie Walker Coldwell Banker United 3001 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 903.277.0100 903.832.2486 Impact Realty Bill and Tracy Spradlin 1200 N. Kings Hwy., Suite 104 Nash, TX 903.748.3186 903.748.2477 Teresa Liepman Remax 5120 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 75503 903.276.9464 Refreshments Bolls Distributing 700 E. Broad St. Texarkana, AR 870.774.9283 The Villa Liquor Store 5108 N. Stateline Texarkana, AR 870.772.2100 903.277.1239 razorbackbilly@cableone.net

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Rentals Big Event / Atlas Game Room 2837 New Boston Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.334.7444 Bounce-A-Lot 903.276.2961 www.bounce-a-lot.org Dot’s Rentals 814 N. Robison Road Texarkana, TX 75501 903.792.7011 3413 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.838.0551 Twisted Vines 406 N. Stateline Avenue Texarkana, AR 870-772-2700 Restaurants Chappo’s Italian Restaurant 5602 Richmond Rd., Suite 101 Texarkana, TX 75501 903.791.1726 Daddy Dougaloo’s 905 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.791.0172 Dairy Queen Locations throughout Ark-La-Tex

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Fuzzy’s Tacos 4809 Texas Blvd.

Texarkana, TX 903.791.8226 Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354 Shorty’s Donuts 2729 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.6686 Silver Spoon 5530 Scottsdale Drive Texarkana, TX 75503 903.838.4648 Smokey Joe’s BBQ 300 W. New Boston Road Nash, TX 903.223.8227 Sonic Locations throughout Ark-La-Tex Tasty Donuts 1443 N. Kings Highway Nash, TX 903.838.0422 Timothy’s 4115 N. Kings Highway Texarkana, TX 903.831.5999

Wendy’s 4201 Stateline Avenue Texarkana, TX 2902 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 3737 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 1615 N. Hervey Hope, AR 124 N. Loop Highway 59 Atlanta, TX Wingstop 2700 Richmond Road, Suite 14A1 Texarkana, TX 903.255.0090 4501 N. State Line, No. 106 Texarkana, TX 903.792.9464 Retirement/Assisted Living Home Cornerstone Retirement Community 4100 Moores Lane Texarkana, TX 903.832.5515 Sitters Sitters Kathryn Norwood/Karen Schmidt Texarkana, TX 903.277.2191

Spas/Salons All About You Diana Gregory/Lori Campbell 4100 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.7775 Salon Visage Esthetique Mary Ann Robbins 4506 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.794.4007 Sanctuary Kimberly Parham, M.D. 3502 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.334.8661 Travel Vickie’s Tours PO Box 682 Hooks, TX 903.547.3030 Wedding Attire Bridal Castle 3209 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.838.3886 Reed’s Bridal and Formal 2501 N. Stateline Texarkana, TX 903.793.7333

Wedding Coordinators Abracadabra Wedding and Event Planning Debra Mason, Event Coordinator 903.748.4838 damason@cableone.net Wedding Favors Pop Pop Shoppe 2011 Mall Drive, Suite B Texarkana, TX 903.793.0209 Wedding Officiant Jeff Taylor 903.733.6347 pgccminister@yahoo.com Wedding Planners Abracadabra Wedding and Event Planning Debra Mason, Event Coordinator 903.748.4838 damason@cableone.net

Texarkana, TX 75503 903.838.4648 www.silverspooninc.com Smokey Joe’s BBQ 300 W. New Boston Road Nash, TX 903.223.8227 Timothy’s 4115 N. Kings Highway Texarkana, TX 903.831.5999 Weight Loss All About You Diana Gregory/Lori Campbell 4100 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.7775 Richmond Nutrition 3316 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 903.832.0437

Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Locations Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354 Silver Spoon 5530 Scottsdale Drive

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United Way Recognition Breakfast

EVENT

WHERE

William’s Memorial United Methodist Church

WHEN

3/22/11

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1. Joe Morriss and Jerry Black 6. Danny Gray, Mary Wormington and Robert Irwin 7. Rae Ann Patty, Marcia Ware and Lora Burris 8. Brian Matthews and Micki Wright 9. Buzz Baron and Stewart Daniels 10. Adam Lyons, Gary Old and Travis Old 11. James Henry Russell, Bob Bruggeman and Justin White 12. Nita Craytor and Lisa Kern 16. John and Julie Ray Harrison 18. Diane Leverett and Jennifer Lacefield 21. Lacy McMillen and Treva West 58. Sandy Varner, Jeremiah Page and Anita Carver 28. Jeremiah Page and Shelia Ross

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by Jane Bouterse

…Lest We Forget Sunday, December 7, 1941 “a date which will live in infamy”

F

or 91 year old Homer Carter, the memories of standing outside Schofield Barracks, his Army home in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, remain vivid. The sky of that December Sunday was clear and bright blue reflecting the color of the calm Pacific waters.

On this sunny Sunday, the men and women of the U.S. Pacific Fleet were awakening and beginning their morning rituals a bit more slowly than usual—breakfast, shifts ending and beginning routinely, time for postponed chores. No one suspects that this day will be different from any other.

Aircraft remained parked from wingtip to wingtip on the tarmacs of Hickam and Wheeler Fields; “anti-aircraft guns are unmanned with many ammunition boxes kept locked in accordance with peacetime regulations.” The harbor was crowded with U. S. battleships and destroyers; there was no

Homer Carter, left, during his Army days, and right, today with his son, Mike.

room for the aircraft carriers which waited farther out to sea.

“At 7:02 a.m., two Army operators at Oahu’s northern shore radar station detect the Japanese air attack approaching and contact a junior officer who disregards the reports, thinking they are American B-17 planes which are expected in from the U. S. west coast.”

Homer Carter is just getting ready to go to breakfast at 7:53 a.m. when the first wave of Japanese assault planes reach Pearl Harbor and begin to deliver their deadly loads. The noise startled him, so he ran outside the barracks to see what was going on. “A bunch of those Zeros came right over the barracks. One of ‘em came over the barracks so low [I could see] the pilot was lookin’ out the window, “ Homer remembers. “I had a rifle but no bullets in it. All the ammo was locked in the storage building.

Took ‘em a while before they unlocked the boxes. A colonel yelled, ‘Cease Fire’ at the www.alt-mag.com

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soldiers shooting. I just wanted to get out of the way.”

Exactly what was going through his mind at this moment, Homer cannot recall, but one can assume confidently that it was neither reflection nor contemplation but action—“getting out of the way.” Action had been a hallmark of this 6 foot 1 inch young man right out of the East Texas Piney Woods. He and his five siblings grew up in the small community of Woodlawn near Marshall. Their lives, typical of the time, were hard. His East Texas mornings began early, as stove wood had to be cut before breakfast could be prepared on the family’s wood-burning stove. Following their hefty breakfast, the boys had to cut wood to fill the wagon, then head for the nearest marketplace—Jefferson, Texas. A cord of firewood sold in Jefferson for $2 while a cord of stove wood—which required more precise cutting—sold for $4. The trip took a while on the backroads, in some cases little more than trails. Days were long and labor intensive. On the days they were not cutting wood, they searched the woods for pine knots. The rich knots could be used for kindling and provided a way to start the fires on which his family depended for heating and cooking.

Letting the fire go out was not a problem easily resolved.

School in Woodlawn was an opportunity, but attending required both determination and stamina.

There were no school buses, so the only way to get there was by walking.

Homer finished the twelfth grade and was the only one in his class. The first six grades were in one room of the wooden building. “One time the teacher got sick, so they put me in the room with the six grades to be the teacher,” a wry smile and slight laugh sneak across his usually stern face as Homer recalls. “They said it was quieter in there than with the regular teacher.”

Since the country was in the grip of a depression when Homer graduated, jobs were scarce—almost non-existent in the piney woods, so he headed to Globe, Arizona, to a CCC camp. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) was one of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s New Deal measures to put men to work.

During its nine years of existence some 2.5 million men were paid $30 a month (usually sent automatically to the home folks) to plant and fight disease in forests, dig drainage ditches and fish ponds, build firebreaks and reservoirs, clear beaches and camping grounds and even restore historic battlefields. [If you have traveled

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much in the USA, you know that citizens of the 21st century are still benefiting from the CCC’s work.] Not only the nation but the young men themselves were changed. One declared, “’It made a man of me all right.’”

At the time of his arrival, however, the Globe CCC had no jobs to offer, so Homer went to Phoenix with a friend to spend Christmas. After a couple of days, he grew tired of Phoenix, went back to Globe, then headed home, leaving his clothes to be sent to him.

Francisco Bay. During World War II, the fort became a staging area for “casuals,” i.e. unassigned enlisted men being sent as replacements to the Pacific Theater of War. Homer was a “casual” who, like many of the 300,000 men who passed through its dining halls remembered the food as good, even though massive meals had to be prepared to accommodate the number of soldiers.

“There was a mess of cooking,” Homer observes.

Next stop for Homer was Hawaii and Schofield Barracks. Up to this point, his contact with live ammunition and fighting techniques had been confined to his hunting for East Texas game and the Army’s basic training exercises. Pearl Harbor changed that.

When Homer heard the noise and ran into the fiery day that December 7, 1941, had become, he became a part of history.

Today, he calmly remembers how the bombers of all kinds—dive bombers, torpedo and high level bombers and ‘Zero’ fighters— swooped down on the base. They even dropped a bomb on the PX (Military Post Exchange) right in front of the barracks. “Why they did it, I don’t know. They even strafed a domed ice rink. They must have thought it was important.”

By January 1940, an eighteen year old Homer had decided the only thing left for him was to join the Army, so he tried. There was just one problem, however-- his age.

In 1940, a young man had to be at least 21 to join without his parents’ permission.

The Army must have been confident that permission would be no problem, since they promptly sent Homer to Fort Bliss, Texas.

He stayed in the recruitment center until his parents finally consented to his enlistment.

Even with weeks to think about what he had done, Homer could not have imagined the changes his life would undergo as a soldier in the United States Army.

Once he was “official,” Homer shipped out to Fort McDowell, an historic military post on Angel Island in the San

According to Homer, the Japanese continued their air raid assault on Pearl Harbor for about half of the day before they finally quit. However, several documented accounts of the attack note that the bombing ended about 9:45 a.m.—the overall attack lasting little more than two hours.

Airfields and battleships were the targets of the first wave of Japanese aircraft. This attack was launched by Commander Mitsuo Fuchida’s now famous battle cry: “Tora! Tora! Tora!”

(Tiger! Tiger! Tiger!).

About one hour after the first attack, a second wave of Japanese aircraft focused their attention on other ships and shipyard facilities in Pearl Harbor.

Since Americans were taken completely by surprise, the losses were substantial. The number of American lives lost range from 2,300 to 2,700 including between 1,104 to 1,177 members of the sunken Battleship USS Arizona and 68 civilians. Approximately 1,178 servicemen were wounded. Twelve U. S. warships were destroyed or sank and approximately 323 aircraft were damaged or destroyed. Quick action on the part of both pilots and Navy crewmen caused the Japanese to lose 27 planes and 5 midget submarines attempting

to penetrate the harbor defenses and launch torpedoes.

Several months passed, Homer reports, before servicemen not directly involved in the business of recovery were allowed to go to town—some 20 miles away.

They could drive by and see the bombed out airfields and hangars but were not allowed beyond the barriers. Other changes were implemented as well. Any servicemen whose enlistment was about over were denied discharge until….

America was now fully in the war.

The War Department no longer believed the number of men needed could be obtained by volunteers alone, so a draft was implemented. Homer re-enlisted for another three years. His subsequent service took him to Australia. While near Sydney, he managed to crawl under the fences of his military compound just to go have a look downtown. MPs interrupted his tour. “Do you remember that hole where you crawled out?” the MPs questioned him. “Well, you just go crawl right back in.” Homer unhesitatingly followed his directions.

In New Guinea, he had an appendectomy, performed by American doctors in a shelter with a palm tree “roof” and bordered by a dusty, dirt road.

Surprisingly, he recovered without any problems. By now, Homer had gotten smart.

He had transferred from the 21st Infantry Rifle Company to the 21st Infantry Service Unit. “I got tired walkin’, totin’ all that stuff,” he laughs, so he learned to haul loads of dynamite in trucks whose brakes had been paralyzed by the mud. He just had to take his foot off the gas and “let it roll.”

C. Short, were relieved of their duties for failing to adopt adequate defense measures.

Neither numbers nor punishments, monuments nor prayers can restore what this nation lost at Pearl Harbor and in the days to follow. Remembering the sacrifices of those families whose loved ones have been killed or damaged plus learning from our mistakes constitute the genuine memorials. Lest we forget--we must take the time to remember those who have made possible the lives we lead today---.

Memorial Day, Monday, May 30, 2011

Homer Carter is one of an estimated 2,000-4,000 survivors (2010 census) of the attack on Pearl Harbor. He is one of the lucky ones. He came home, married Nellie (his wife of 65 years), worked as an auto-mechanic and welder to support his wife and son, Mike (with 14 years of military service). Today, Homer’s six foot frame is a bit more bent, his step is slightly slower and more dependent on an assist from his cane, and his 197 pounds cause slightly more mid-torso bulge than the 155 of his eighteenth year…BUT…he is as generous with his memories as he was with his service.

Like all of those military personnel who serve, he was transported from the piney woods he knew so well to places he

had only heard about—El Paso, Alabama, Florida (where he was discharged), seen on a map—Hawaii, Sydney and Brisbane, Australia-- or just read on his orders—New Guinea, Good Enough Island. Homer missed births and deaths, christenings and graduations—all those events important to an evolving family. He was paid a subsistence wage and with courage not complaint risked his life daily to perform the duties he was assigned.

His family and friends waited anxiously and prayed as they supported his choice to serve his nation. His stories remind us to remember both our responsibilities and our debts and to be grateful. The life Americans know has come at a price— freedom is not now nor has it ever been— FREE.

Lest We Forget…

Remember to Thank a Vet And to recall with gratitude those who have shaped our lives.

Memorial Day, Monday, May 30, 2011

Like most servicemen, Homer Carter has stories to tell of his military experiences—some funny, some ridiculous, some sad, some frightening. Their detailed memories remain clear in his 91 year old mind. Pearl Harbor, however, survives vividly. So it is for many---especially those few who survive and return annually to lay a wreath at the shrine built over the sunken USS Arizona. For the last 10 years, Louis Conter, who as a young sailor stood watch on the quarterdeck of the ship when the Japanese attacked, has returned to pay tribute to his fallen comrades. On December 7, 2010, Conter told Reuters, “We look at the ones still aboard the ship out there as the heroes. We’re the lucky ones. We came home and got married and had kids and now grand-kids. And they’re still there.”

As a result of the Japanese assault on Pearl Harbor, the combat readiness of the U. S. Pacific Fleet was not just compromised but crippled. Both Pearl Harbor commanders, Navy Admiral Husband E. Kimmel and Army Lt. General Walter www.alt-mag.com

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Beryl Henry School Career Day

EVENT

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Hope, AR

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3/31/11

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1. Chief J. R. Wilson, Hope PD; Carroll Schmitt, Hope FD; Timothy Gregory, Hope FD 2. Jennifer Orr, Dir of Therapy/Medical Park Hospital; Brooke Kervin, Natural Resource Specialist/US Army Corp of Engineers 3. Dr. Damian Stroderd, Veterinarian/Byreview Veterinary Clinic; Dr. Victor Ford, Dir & Prof/UA Div of Agri. SW Research & Extension Center 4. Angela Gammage, School Resource Officer/Hope PD; Tosha Bradely, Information Systems Instructor/UA CCH 5. Dennis Ramsey, Hope Mayor and President/Summit Bank; Christie McQueen, Prosecuting Attorney/Eighth Judicial District-North 6. Chief Dale Glanton, Hope FD; Mark Wilcox, UA CCH 7. Roy Turner, Principal/Beryl Henry Intermediate School; Cleytus Coulter, Asst Principal/Beryl Henry Intermediate School 8. Linda Willis, Learning for Life Director/Caddo Area Council BSA; Christi Sullivan, Counselor/Beryl Henry Intermediate School 9. Edessa Walton, Career Coach/UA CCH; Emma Bissell, House Supervisor/Medical Park Hospital; Steve Lance, Owner-Realtor/Lance and Associates

For information on advertising in the Ark-La-Tex’s Premier Magazine, Call Charlie McMurphy today!

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Marines Recruiting Station Dallas Annual Pool Function

EVENT

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Red River Army Depot

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4/2/11

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“Every 6 months we (our recruits and the Recruiters) compete with other recruiting stations from all around the different areas in several different events that help prepare our kids for the world renowned ‘Marine Corps Boot Camp.’ A lot of the recruits that are apart of Recruiting SubStation (RSS) Texarkana are from several of our own local areas such as Atlanta, Queen City, Pleasant Grove, Redwater, Texarkana, etc, as far north as Idabel and Broken Bow, OK, and as far east as El Dorado, Magnolia and Strong, AR. The other Marine offices in which we competed against were from the areas of Tyler and Longview TX, and Little Rock, Searcy and Pine Bluff, AR. So we actually had a big turn out and all of our ‘Future Leaders of America’ were in full effect.”

- Sgt. Ronald Ford Shortly after the IST (Individual Strength Test), which consisted of the 1.5 mile run, pull ups and crunches, the other competing events took place, We had an ammo can relay which consisted of an eight-man team of Poolees (Recruits) carrying two 30 lbs ammo cans up to a 100 meters and passing them to each other as fast as humanly possible. Than a four-man team doing a push up relay, which consisted of Poolees sprinting 25 meters than diving into the push-up position and executing 25 pushups and sprinting back to tag their partner. Next was a 200 meter Sprint relay ran by a eight-man team where each member sprinted 200 meters as fast as they could and the fastest team to complete all 8 members wins. Finally... the Tug-ofWar event which was very intense! All in all when everything was done Team RSS Texarkana took the 1st Place Champion Trophy for Overall Recruiting SubStation. Bailey Fleming, from Atlanta, TX, represented RSS Texarkana and received the 1st place High Overall Female Poolee.

As you can see, Marine Recruiters dedicate a lot of our time to prepare all of their kids so they succeed in ANYTHING that falls in front of them. They operate very similar to that of a family with a big emphasis on the team concept. There were also a lot of parents in attendance and many shared that they had a great time watching all the events, especially the Drill Instructor interacting with the kids. The Poolees from Team Texarkana said they had a great time and can’t wait to do it again next year!

1. Misc. photo 2. Photo submitted by Gail Hoffmeister 3. Photo submitted by Lance Corporal Robert Bryan 4. Sgt. Ronald Ford give recruits some instructions before the 1.5 mile run 5. Recruits begin the 1.5 mile run 6. Austin Barnett from Maud, Texas crossing the finish of the 1.5 mile run 7. Sgt. Riley from Recruiting SubStation Plano,Texas calling out times for 1.5 mile finishers 8. Ashley Campbell from Atlanta, Texas RSS Texarkana 9. Lesley Campbell from Atlanta, Texas RSS Texarkana 10. Photo submitted by Gail Hoffmeister 11. Cody Graf from Ashdown, Arkansas RSS Texarkana 12. Photo submitted by Lance Corporal Robert Bryan 13. Photo submitted by Lance Corporal Robert Bryan 14. Photo submitted by Lance Corporal Robert Bryan 15. Photo submitted by Gail Hoffmeister 16. Photo submitted by Gail Hoffmeister 17. Photo submitted by Gail Hoffmeister 18. Misc. photo 19. Misc. photo 20. Photo submitted by Gail Hoffmeister

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2nd Annual Rosehill Celebration EVENT

WHERE

Tiger Stadium

WHEN

4/2/11

1. J.C. Lambert and Charles Harris 2. Choctaw Williams, Beth Gamble-Williams and Denice Floyd 3. Richard Seymour, Mike Ingram, David Nash and Clayton Tinkes 4. Brian Matthews and Alyce Martindale 5. Mary Philips, Bess Gamble-Williams, Dan Haskins, Jo Ann Rice and Rev. Leslie Brembry 6. Vernon Murphy, Jo Ann Rice and Al Davis 7. Ryan Hamilton and Trish Reed 8. D.J. Godfather, Lacy McMillen, Joyce Campbell, DeeDee Woods and Al Hanna 9. LaNita Fagan and Odell Taylor 10. Timothy Allman, Willie Conner and Nealie Henderson 11. Al Hanna - The voice of Tiger Football for over 47 years.

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EVENT

CASA Funraiser

WHERE

Fat Jacks

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3/31/11

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1. Michelle Miller and John Taylor 2. Art Versnick and Harold Sudbury 3. Maura Johnston and Leigh Harris 4. Whitney Venable, Lynn Lindsey, Michelle Miller and Leigh Harris 5. Paul Ronan, Kandice Kimmel, Kathy Lach and Jim Cook 6. Debbie McCombs and Jeff Schlonga 7. C.A.S.A. Staff from left: Kandice Kimmel, Kathy Lach, Whitney Venable, Kim Wilson and Jake Hambleton 8. Tara Copeland and Bravin McCollum 9. Natalie Woodard and Caroline Woodward 10. Denise Rosser and Dana Williams 11. Pat Howard and Diana Rains 12. Gary Wright and Marilyn Scoggins 13. Steve Weed, “Cajun� John Fedric and Dr. Jim Shively 14. Shawn Edmonds and Jodee Lott 15. Josh Grimes 16. Dr. Jim and Jennifer Shively 17. Dan and Shawn Edmonds

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Circle of Friends Carnival

EVENT

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Ramage Farms

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4/8/11

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1. Event Chair Whitney Jackson and Auction Chair Erica Ramage 2. Alisha Murray, Fred Scarborough and Whitney Jackson 3. Jane Portis and Laura Davis 4. David A. James and Jackie James 5. Jane Portis and Jack Bruner 6. Lauren Maynard and Arkansas Children’s Hospitol Ambassador Aubrey Maynard 7. Jane Portis, Susan Maynard and Linda Willis 8. Linda Willis, KTAL Chief Meterologist Todd Warren and Dean Ransdell 9. Dorothy Morgan and Maxine Crow 10. Julie and Ron Collins 11. Wiely Kemp and Luke Kemp 12. Dr. Greg and Kaycie Petty, Vickie and Dr. James Raker 13. Ezry Martin, Allye Prather, Anna Melde, Mallory Greene, Alex Barlow and Nelson Thomas 14. Kim Wall and Fernando Rosales 15. Ken Guthrie, Courtney Thomas and Scott Swenson 16. Dan Debenport and John Debenport 17. Rachel Taylor, Kevin Green and Vicki Angel 18. Jason, Tommie and Renee Lea 19. Leonia Fukuichi and Denesia Foster 20. Tim and Trish Reed 21. Kasey Merriman and Kevin Yeager 22. Brittani Trumble and Jessica Shipp 23. Randy Altenbaumer 24. LaRinda Harjo and Alley Grace Harjo 25. Root beer and Coke floats!

26. James and Shannon Smith, Logan Smith 27. Front row from left: Alley Grace Harjo, Chris Walraven, Russell Rollans, Ronnie Walraven, Dorothy Walraven, Abbey Harjo, LaRinda Harjo, Todd Hensley, Chad Hensley, Shirley Hensley and Warren Harjo 28. Neal Courtney, Lisa Liles, Dean and Bob Ransdell 29. Cupcakes!

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Stone Soup Luncheon

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1. Anna Otwell, Jenifer McDonald, Kandis Jones and Heidi Adams 2. Charlotte Leslie, Mildred Lewis, Jo Griffin and Natasha Crabbe; Sitting: Ruby Bivins and Barbara Blake 3. Charlotte Leslie and Jo Griffin 4. Dr James Garrett and Mildred Lewis 5. Janet Farnham and Katie Osborne 6. Josh and Martha Morriss 7. Natasha Crabbe and Dr. James Garrett 8. Ruby Bivens and Barbara Blake

EVENT

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Cornerstone Retirement Community WHEN

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EVENT

Jail & Bail

WHERE

Ironwood Grill

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3/24/11

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1. Mattlene Miller 2. Larry Murphy 3. Brian Matthews 4. Joe Tyler 5. Richard Seymour 6. Tiffany Rankin 7. Todd Smith 8. Det. Stephen Ward, Kathy Hillis and Det. Wesley Penney 9. Tiffany Irving Jones, Jeremiah Page and Jessica Ray 10. Tiffany Irving Jones, Craig Hicks and Jessica Ray 11. Karen Hewitt 12. Donnelle King 13. and 11. Kathy Hillis 14. Sasha Jones 15. Susie and Odis Tyler 16. Brian Haley 17. Linda Stainback 18. Charlotte Hampton 19. Cliff Moss 20. Bonnie Champion 21. Darla Turner 22. Adrian Bowles 23. Bradley and Brian Matthews 24. Jeremiah Page and Bradley Matthews 25. Ann Milam 26. Shandi Allen 27. Michael Johnson 28. Rev. Leslie Brembry 29. Leah Bobo and Audrea Haberman

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EVENT

High Tea Party

WHERE

The Home of Ty & Katherine Patterson WHEN

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1. Mel Luebbert and Katherine Patterson 2. Gena Shipp, Kelli Ashbrook-Cummings, Heather Thomson and Stacy Mayo 3. Diana James, Nita Jones, Kaye Ellison and Mary Jane Johnson 4. Brian Goesl and Mary Jane Orr present and explain the stories behind each painting.

5. Kathy Graves, Julie Collins and Carol Pitts 6. Brandi Gillenwater and Jackie Gildon 7. Deborah Mason, Mary Schroeder and Kathy Graves 8. Mary Jackson, Barbara McCash and Willistene Post 9. Sandra Shingleur, Lindola Griffin and Betty Williams 10. Ginny Dowdle and Linda Day 11. Sarah Williamson, Dorothy Langdon, Gay Durrant and Judy Crutchfield 12. Glenda Wilf, Barbara Whitney, Jane Qualls and Pat Nance 13. Don and Patsy Morriss 14. LaJaun Martin, Teresa Shipp and Pat Williams 15. Tracy Smith, Megan Menefee and Mitun Balasekaran 16. Robin Proctor and Judy Jones show off some of the Art pieces from Party with Picassos 17. Haley Allen and Maddie Edmonds 18. Emily Ranson and Joyce Parry 19. Victoria Smith, Chris Terry, Dee Reece, Janie Pappas, Pegg y Kososki and Bobbie Guillot 20. Rebecca Shipp, Jan Orr and Summer Floyd 21. Judge Sherry Hawkins, Charlotte Potter, Caren Poole, Nona Culpepper, Kristi Jones and Becky Phillips. Seated from left: Camilla McGinnis and Aria Potter 22. Chiquita Burks, Rhonda Dolberry, Gwen Murphy-Hogg and Maxine Crittenden 23. Carolyn Allen and Mary Katherine Weber

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EVENT

Party with Picassos

WHERE

Texarkana Country Club

WHEN

3/26/11

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1. Barbara and Paul McCash 2. Willistene Post and Paul McCash 3. Mary Jane Orr and Philip Mobley 4. Merilynn Johnson with “Hot Stuff” 5. William Morriss and Betty Miller 6. Gail McKinney and Jim Oliver 7. Tracey and Marc Smith 8. Stephanie Black and Jeannie Knod Edwards 9. Merilyn Johnson and Dr. Cindi Porter 10. Donna Chatman and Jo Ann Rice 11. Judy Jones and Robin Proctor 12. David and Diane James 13. Pam McCoy and “Behind the Mask” 14. Shelia Keevers and Kelly Rose 15. Dr. Angela Perry and Brian Goesl 16. Mary Jane and David Orr 17. Diane Martin and Mary Jane Johnson 18. Zona Farris and Steven Bledsoe 19. Glen Knod 20. Patti Goesl and Judith White 21. Dr. Jo Kahler and Judy Morgan 22. Rosie Sanderson and Nancy Martin 23. Rhonda Allen and Nancy Martin 24. Jennifer Jordan and Georgia Hubnik 25. Frank Poff and Nicole Briscoe 26. Bill and Nina Cork 27. LeAnne Wright and Jon Purifoy 28. Margaret Cobb and Connor Patman 29. Don and Patsy Morriss, Marti and Steve Bledsoe 30. Julia Mobley, Pastor Bruce and Teresa Bennett 31. Diane and Curt Green 32. Elaine and Ken Cowling 33. Teri Pulce and Glenn Knod 34. David Potter, Liza McCubbin, Jean Lattimore and Jeff Brown 35. Mel Luebbert, James DeWoody and Rene’ Schmitt 36. Amy Cavazos 37. Marc and Amy Cavazos 38. Jan and Joel Orr 39. Featured artist, Jim DeWoody, Peggy and Ronold Burson 40. Stacy Mayo, Alan and Jeanne Harrel 41. Theresa and Frank Poff 42. Robin Proctor and Kaye Ellis 43. Nan and Dr. Bob Fry 44. Ann Coleman, Lindy Lawrence, Cassie Jean and Terri Arnold 45. Al J. Daniel, Virgina Daniel and Kezia Wineberg 46. Cornelia DeWoody and Jim DeWoody 47. Danny and Judie Rackley 48. Mike and Judge Caroline Craven 49. Meaux Johnson and John Crisp 50. Julie and Leon Sanderson

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March Masquerade Benefitting Relay For Life EVENT

WHERE

Special Events

WHEN

4/2/11

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1. Darren Crabbe and Randy Crabbe 2. Arwen McDaniel, Shawn Edmonds and Debbie Brower 31. Barbara Walker, Nastasha Crabbe, Julie Greenhill and Ivonne Gurrola 4. Debbie Brower, Lindsay Gamble, Jacci Hawkins and Shawn Edmonds 5. Jenny Tefft, Helen Asimos and Linda Scott 6. Debbie Brower, Tommy and Jana Hicks 7. Antonio and Larra Otero, Katherine and Emmanuel Otero 8. Shawn Dierksen, Janet and Steve Matlock 9. Ivonne Gurrola 10. Fabienne and Debbie Brower 11. Arwen and Michael McDaniel 12. Janelle Williamson and Michelle Miller 13. Teri Rice and Dana Rowan 14. Kevin Ballentine and Barbara Walker 15. Carri Campbell and Erin Phillips 16. Mike Covert and Nicole Elam 17. Chris and Laura Ross 18. Connor Patman, Natasha Crabbe and Margaret Cobb 19. John Taylor and Michelle Miller 20. Carlissa Brown, Shandrika Boyd and Q Heard 21. Jennifer Lacefield, Kelsey Durham, Codi Blair, K. T. Coltharp and Dani Pickens 22. Anthony Jewell and Kelsey Durham 23. Chris Reed and Jennifer Lacefield 24. Lynn Morriss and Shawn Dierksen 25. Randy Crabbe, Darren and Natasha Crabbe 26. Michael and Arwen McDaniel, Lynn Morriss and Shawn Dierksen and Emily and Eric McCasland 27. Arron and Dawn Evans 28. Roger and Debbie Shepard 29. Amy Huddleston and Paul Ronan 30. Ellen Brennan, Dana Rowan, Teri Rice, John Taylor, Michelle Miller and Jennifer Montoya 31. Jawbone (Band)

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The Texarkana Humane Society is a nonprofit volunteer organization dedicated to re-homing orphaned animals, promoting the human-animal bond, preventing animal cruelty, educating children and adults about responsible pet ownership and preventing pet overpopulation.

In an effort to reduce overpopulation and the unwanted pet population, the Texarkana Humane Society sponsors a low-cost spay/ neuter program. The reduced cost spay/ neuter certificates are available to anyone in the community.

Texarkana Humane Society

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1. Sister is an 8 mo. old Lab Mix. She is going to be a big girl. She loves to run and play, is very energetic, loves sticks and other dogs. She is house-trained, but mostly stays outside. She is a big love, however, she does not get along well with cats or chickens. If interested, call Lee Ann at (903) 244-4847.

2. This is Jonesey and he is our newest fella up for adoption. He is neutered, hw negative, current on shots and weighs only 15 pounds. We are working on his potty training and he seems to do really well. He gets along well with other dogs, walks good on a leash and rides in a car. If you are interested in this handsome fella call Sherrie (903) 838-6334.

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Volunteers who agree to provide a foster home for our strays are provided with medical care for the animals. The Humane Society pays for all immunizations and spays or neuters the animal.

Our goal is to place these animals in permanent homes with responsible, loving pet owners.

All of our services are provided through private donations from our community.

Donations are accepted and needed! Our animal friends appreciate you and your donations are tax deductible! (The Humane

Society is all volunteers and all

money goes towards the animals.)

We’ve got a full house! Please come visit us!

You might find the addition your family has been looking for!

For more information, contact Sherrie Thompson, President, at 903.838.6334, or got to www.texarkanahumanesociety.com. We’re also on Facebook!

Do you have an animal that needs a new home? Please don’t neglect it! If you live within the Texas city limits, call Animal Control and they will come pick up for free; Arkansas city limits, call or drop off are free! Or, call us and let us help you find a foster home. We will list your animal on our Facebook page at no charge. Let us help!

Come visit us at PetSmart on the fourth Saturday of every month!

3 3. Uncertain is a 6 month old male cat. He is litter trained, current on shots and has been neutered. He loves other cats and is very social. For more info call (903) 832-2321.

4. Sabrina is a beautiful golden retriever mix. She was found running loose at the park with a dog chain embedded into her neck. A good samaritan heard about her story and wanted to pay for the collar to be removed and for her to be spayed and find a rescue for her to go into. The humane society took her into foster care and she has been a wonderful addition. She is a very sweet and loving girl and after all the neglect she apparently went through she is very loving. If

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you would be interested in giving this beautiful dog a forever home call Sherrie at (903) 838-6334.

5. Abbie is our newest and youngest addition. She is a Yorki-poo. This precious little girl is about 8 weeks old and will be a small dog when she is grown. Her shots have been started but she is not yet ready for adoption. If you are interested in her please call (903) 838-6334.

6. Dusti is a 1 yr old Dauch-Pug mix. She is current on vaccinations, spayed, and is on heartworm and flea prevention. Dusti weighs 13 pounds. She loves kids and gets along well with other dogs. We are working on her house-training. More info: Sherrie- (903) 838-6334.

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1. Jafar is a male Orange Tabby Domestic Short Hair. He’s about 18 months old.

2. Jasmin is a female Domestic Short Hair and she’s about 6 months old.

3. Lover Boy is a male Grey Tabby Domestic Short Hair. He’s about 1 year old.

4. Minnie is a female Grey Tabby and White Domestic Short Hair. She’s about 6 months old.

The mission of the Animal Care & Adoption Center of Texarkana, Arkansas is to be a technologically advanced, self sustaining, human and animal friendly facility that specializes in personal customer service from a team of knowledgeable, caring individuals who endeavor to achieve rapid placement of all adoptable animals.

We are always in need of caring, capable volunteers to assist in with duties at the center, adoption events, fund-raising activities and more.

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5. Bella is a female Dachshund mix. She is 9 months old and weighs about 10 lbs.

6. Sassy is a female Chihuahua/Toy Fox Terrier. She is 2 years old and weighs about 6 lbs.

7. Shiver is a female Chihuahua/Dachshund mix. She’s 18 months old and about 10 lbs.

8. Sunshine is a female Great Pyrenees mix. She is about 2 years old and weighs about 50 lbs.

Your tax-deductible donation will help care for and assist in the adoption of loving animals to good homes!

The Animal Care & Adoption Center of Texarkana, Arkansas is located at 203 Harrison, Texarkana, AR, 71854. For more information, call Donna Yeldell at 870. 773.6388, or visit www. animalcareadoptioncenter.org.

We’re also on Facebook!

Please note, all dogs adopted from this shelter MUST be spayed or neutered. Spays cost $89-$104, neuters are $76-$92 depending on the weight of the dog.

Who else can help?

Artex Animal Welfare, Inc. (mostly horses) 903.824.1990 Three Rivers Animal Rescue 903.490.4048 Poodle Patch & Friends poodlepatch@yahoo.com Passion for Pooches (mostly small dogs) 903.832.8632 Texarkana Animal League (must leave message) 877.525.4825

Happy

Tails!

Everyone Wendy meets falls in love with the little girl who arrived here safely on the 27th of March.

What a sweetheart she is. Her new mom is retired and has lots of time and love to give her. She loves curling up and sleeping on the bed with her, too!

She is just a delight and very happy she has a Forever Home. Than ks so much again for being so terr ific to work with!

(Cour tesy of the Texarkana Anim al Care and Adoption Center)

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7. These 3 babies were given up by the owner when they were 2 days old, yes 2 days. Fortunately we had a volunteer that fed these 3 as well as their 2 siblings. These girls are 10 weeks old now, they have 2 sets of puppy shots, and are looking for that wonderful family to share their lives with. For more info call Amber at (870) 653-6983.

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May Calendar

of Events

May 7 May 1-31

3rd Annual Summer Safety Event Central Mall Texarkana: Play area in front of JC Penny’s 10:00AM-2:00PM

For the month of May, receive 15% all children’s toys at the For Arts’ Sake Gift Shop located in the Regional Arts Center at 321 W. 4th Street.

Hours of Operation: Tuesday through Saturday 10:00AM-4:00PM.

May 15

May 2

The City of Texarkana, TX Parks and Recreation Department will be hosting their Spring Series of Movies in the Park. Join us at Spring Lake Park for the new release, The Secretariat, Rated PG. This is a FREE event and showtime is approximately 8:00PM. For more information, call the Parks office at 903.798.3978.

Survivor/Caregiver Dinner at the FourStates Fair All Cancer Survivors, their family and caregivers are invited to attend.

5:30PM - 7:30PM Call the American Cancer Society for more info, (903) 831-5422

May 3-14

TRAHC’s 19th Annual Student Juried Art Exhibit will be accepting work from May 3-14 at the Regional Arts Center.

For more information, please contact Brian Phillips at 903-792-8681 or bphillips@trahc.org

May 5

TRAHC presents...The 4th Annual Reader’s Theater, Voices of Freedom: Overcoming Barriers at the Regional Arts Center in downtown Texarkana. A free event with refreshments provided by Women for the Arts.

6:30PM For more information call 903-792-8681.

Mother’s Day

May 13

May 14

We are what we eat!! A health and wellness presentation that addresses the current state of health in America, what the government says about it, and what we can do to change our destiny by closely considering our diet. An informative presentation for the entire family that will provide you with simple solutions!!

Wake Village First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall 2:00PM For more information, contact Tom C. Greer at (903) 293-4433 or tomcgreer@gmail.com

May 15 Peace Officer’s Memorial Day

May 21

Big Bird Crawfish Boil. An all day event which includes live music & entertainment, a horseshoe tournament, an auction, and lots of great food.

Linden, TX For more information, (903) 756-7774.

May 22

TRAHC presents...The 100th Anniversary Celebration of the Regional Arts Center (originally the Texarkana Federal Courthouse). Join us for an Old Fashioned Ice Cream Social.

2:00PM-4:00PM For more information call 903-792-8681.

May 27

The City of Texarkana, TX Parks and Recreation Department will be hosting their Spring Series of Movies in the Park. Join us at Spring Lake Park for the new release, How to Train Your Dragon, Rated PG. This is a FREE event and showtime is approximately 8:15PM. For more information, call the Parks office at 903.798.3978.

May 29

Texarkana Area Veterans Council and East Memorial Gardens Memorial Day service.

2:00PM East Memorial Gardens on Hwy 67 East, just past the Texarkana Airport.

May 30 Memorial Day

May 30

May 6

May 19

The CHRISTUS St. Michael Foundation is hosting its 4th Annual Golf Tournament. The event is an important fundraiser for the healthcare services and needs of our community.

Texarkana Country Club 11:00AM: Registration; 1:00PM: Tee Off For more information, (903) 614-2024.

Memorial Day service at the Miller County Courthouse hosted by the American Legion Post 25-58 at 11:00AM. Right after that service all will form up on 5th Street for the annual “Memorial Day Remembrance Walk” and walk to the Korea/ Vietnam Memorial where a second service will be held. This service is hosted by Vietnam Veterans of America # 278 and will begin at approximately 11:45AM and will be their 28th Memorial Day Service at this site.

May 6-7

May 20

May 30

The City of Texarkana, TX Parks and Recreation Department will be hosting their Spring Series of Movies in the Park. Join us at Spring Lake Park for the new release, Karate Kid, Rated PG. This is a FREE event and showtime is approximately 8:00PM. For more information, call the Parks office at 903.798.3978.

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. At Relay, teams of people camp out and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Because cancer never sleeps.

Pleasant Grove Middle School Field 6:00PM-6:00PM For more information, go to www.relayforlife.org/ texarkanatx

The City of Texarkana, TX Parks and Recreation Department will be hosting their Spring Series of Movies in the Park. Join us at Spring Lake Park for the new release, Yogi Bear, Rated PG. This is a FREE event and showtime is approximately 8:15PM. For more information, call the Parks office at 903.798.3978.

May 21

Veterans Information Fair

Memorial Day service at HillCrest Memorial Cemetery hosted by Texarkana Funeral Home.

1:00PM

May 30

At 3:00PM locally across the nation the “National Moment of Remembrance “ will be observed.

Give our heros a moment of your time and remember them - it’s the least you can do for what they done for you!!! Remember, Memorial Day is the day set aside to remember and honor those who gave their lives while in the U.S. military in service to this country. They died so you can enjoy the freedoms and liberty that we have - Remember them!

Buying? Selling?

We Can Help!

Bill & Tracy Spradlin 903.223.0710 . 903.748.3186 . 903.748.2477 Email to: billsprad@aol.com . spradlintd@aol.com www.realtyexecutivestexarkana.com 1200 N. Kings Hwy., Suite 104, Nash, TX 75569

Click in 24/7 for all your real estate needs!

www.realtyexecutivestexarkana.com This home is Exquisite. One of the most Magnificent Luxury Homes in the area. The amenities in this home are superb. Game Room, Media Room, Exercise Room, in ground pool, butler’s pantry, granite countertops, marble floors in entry and formal living area, beautiful custom wood work, immaculate luxury home, sprinkler system, security system and more.

Fantastic Pleasant Grove home, family room with fireplace, formal dining, wet bar area, ceramic tile floors, master suite downstairs enjoy the fireplace sitting area in master. Breezeway leads to two car garage, this house offers so many features.

WOW, This lovely home in Texarkana, AR just recently remodeled, granite countertops in kitchen and baths, 3Bedroom/2Bath/2 Car garage, open floor plan, fireplace, workshop, covered gazebo with hot tub and much more. Make an appointment today to come view…

New Boston, Beautiful 3Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 car garage home, open floor plan, split bedroom arrangement, fireplace, privacy fenced yard, workshop and more, call for more details.

What a fantastic home in Texarkana, AR, 3 bedroom/2bath, open floor plan, wood burning stove in family room, covered deck overlooking 3 acres.. Don’t miss this one.

Beautiful new const. in Texarkana, AR city limits, open floor plan, fireplace, ceramic tile floors and master bath with Jacuzzi.

Call for showing.

Wake Village, two story home with lots of potential, formal dining, master downstairs, fireplace, 3 bedroom/2 bath, 2 car garage.

Large Beautiful home in New Boston, on approx 8 acres, in ground pool, 4 bedroom, 3 baths, sunroom, family room with fireplace, den with wood burning stove, recently reduced what a great home in the country call today…

www.realtyexecutivestexarkana.com billsprad@aol.com spradlintd@aol.com Realty Executives Impact, 1200 N. Kings Hwy., Suite 104, Nash, TX 75569 Each office independendly owned and operated.

Residential . Land . Timber Recreational Property Commercial

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