April 2022 ALT Magazine

ALT magazine

covering the ark-la-tex

APRIL 2022 ALT-MAG.COM

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A BLESSING IN DISGUISE

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ALT magazine

covering the ark-la-tex

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A BLESSING IN DISGUISE

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LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS

COO / PUBLISHER Debbie Brower

- BRYANA BLOCK - WILL CARTER - MARY DOWD - JACOB JONES - KYNDAL MISSLEDINE

EDITOR Alyssa Bertrand SALES & MARKETING Debbie Brower 903.334.9605 GRAPHIC DESIGN Alyssa Bertrand PHOTOGRAPHY Debbie Brower

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FEATURED WRITER Anne Granado CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Debbie Brower, Mike Brower, Dustin Stringer, Suzie Tyler

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From the Publisher..

Growing older…

Beauty is not the same for every person. I have never been one who wanted to look fabulous every day. In fact, I was pretty much a tomboy growing up. My mom used to tell me that if she ever wanted to find me and could not, she would start looking up. I loved climbing trees, swing sets, and anything that I could then hang from. Too bad we moved so much that I never had the opportunity to take gymnastics. I think I could have been pretty good at it.

Make-up was never my strong suit. At times, in my 20’s particularly, I actually wore eye shadow. My problem is my skin. It has some of the weirdest issues – like eye shadow makes my eyes feel like I put acid on them. My skin has always been pretty clear until age spots started showing up over the years – mainly from all the hours I spent sunbathing on a “tin foil” blanket with baby oil and iodine as my tanning lotion. Yes, we actually did that, and I’m sure some of you remember. I lived about an hour and a half from the beach, so we always started laying out in March to prepare for summer beach fun.

However, all that fun in the sun is now showing. You know that is what life is all about. Whatever scars or marks I have, I have earned. As I have aged, I have been checking off things I wanted to do or have. One of those things was long hair. When I was in my 20’s and 30’s, I had long hair and loved it. I never had it in my school years. My hair was wavy, and there was little that could be done with it – and again, there was that tomboy thing where I really did not care. I remember letting my hair grow out at one time and using an iron to straighten it. That was the popular method at the time – and yes, it was an iron, not a flat iron. There is a difference!

In the past few years, I once again yearned for long hair. As my hair would get to shoulder length, it drove me crazy, and I would cut it. My hairdresser, Michelle Cox, is amazing and always did a great job, but I decided I really wanted extensions to help make it thicker and get it beyond shoulder length to give the hair a chance to grow out. We discussed my options for several years. The issue was that my hair is obviously gray. And every gray is different. So how do you match that color? It is a difficult process!

When Courtney Foster, Michelle’s daughter, who is following in her mom’s footsteps, chose to attend training to learn a new, wonderful method for extensions, we discussed extensions once again. When she returned, she had the answer to my color dilemma, and my appointment was made.

I love my hair – and I love Michelle and Courtney for helping me do what I’ve wanted to do for years!

Everybody has a different idea of what they want to do to make themselves feel better. Some have facials; some have massages; some have Botox or fillers. Some are just happy the way they are. Each person has a different idea of what beauty is.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with doing something to make yourself feel better. Go for it! Love life and love yourself!

May God bless you and yours!

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A BLESSING IN DISGUISE

by Anne Granado

"The capacity to learn is a gift; the ability to learn is a skill; the willingness to learn is a choice." -- Brian Herbert Sometimes where we end up is not always where we planned. We may set a course with the best of intentions only to be way-laid by obstacles that lead us to an entirely new destination.

Ultimately, many of these unexpected changes end up being a blessing in disguise. Courtney Cox Foster grew up playing in the salon under the feet of her mother, Michelle Cox, who was and still is a stylist and the owner of Studio 360 in Texarkana. Even though Courntey grew up loving to do hair and makeup, she initially chose a different career path. However, on her way to be a pediatric orthodontist, Courtney and her husband, Justin, had their daughter, Lyla. Overwhelmed 010

by the thought of school, homework, debt, and being a young mom, Courtney was steered back to those early memories of being in the salon and seeing people leave feeling happy and beautiful. When Courtney thought of “home,” it was always entwined with her mom, the other longtime stylists at Studio 360, and a positive, encouraging environment where clients became like family. “Growing up, I saw how hard my mom worked, but at the same time, she loved what she did. I remember her telling me that if you do something you love, you will never work a day in your life,” Courtney says. “When my dad urged me to go back to school, I decided to give it a try. I A LT M a g a z i n e | A p r i l 2 0 2 2

signed up for classes at Cosmetology Academy of Texarkana (CAT), and it all started there for me.”

While enrolled in CAT, Courtney learned the basics, but it was not until she moved into Studio 360 with her mom that the true training began. “I’ve learned more working with my mom than I ever did in school,” Courtney says. “My mom is 100% the reason why I love it so much because she opened my eyes to the beauty industry and how much of a blessing it is to be able to work in it. My mom has been my mentor, my teacher, my best friend, and she really is my go-to for everything and anything!”

From the start, Courtney felt like home at Studio 360 with her mother and the stylists she had grown up around. “I’ve known the people who work there for many years. We have my mom, Michelle, a master stylist of 30 plus years, who we call ‘The Boss Lady.’ Even though we are all technically our own bosses, Momma Michelle is just that. Then we have Scott Martin and Christina Fatheree who are like brother and sister to each other and have been doing hair for 20 plus years,” Courtney says. “Last but not least, we have Meagan Glover who is one of the sweetest people around, and she has been doing hair for 10 plus years. I absolutely love my shop family.”

Every day, the Studio 360 family supports each other and the visions of their clients. To Courtney, a good stylist is someone who loves what they do and has a creative, artistic mind to help a client’s style come to life. “If you don’t love it or are just in it for the money I would say you’re in the wrong business,” Courtney says. “If you truly love doing hair, your clients see that and feel that and I think it makes them more comfortable and confident in their stylist chair.”

On top of the daily artistry that goes into styling, Courtney and the stylists at Studio 360 do their best to meet the clients’ needs that are specific to the weather and water conditions in our area such as high humidity and high-mineral well water.

“Many people don’t realize how hard the minerals are on our hair and even our skin! If you put a high developer bleach on someone who has a mineral build up it can cause a chemical reaction, and it is truly a hair stylist‘s nightmare,” Courtney says.

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“This is something that my mom really has taught me to look for and how to treat. After we treat the hair, the clients can tell a big difference!”

Though Courtney credits much of her ability to what she has learned from her mother, Michelle is equally as impressed with her daughter. “I have worked with many stylists over my career but Courtney is by far one of the most talented I have seen. She gives over one hundred percent with every client, and she truly blesses the people that come in contact with her. My own clients have seen her grow up in the salon, and they are so impressed by her beautiful spirit and talent,” Michelle says. “Not only that, but Courtney has studied and continues to study her craft in order to make it the most amazing, comfortable and affordable experience for everyone, including the chairs around her. Her heart is one of the truest, and it’s not about what she can get from others but what she can give.”

Courtney offers any color services and cuts, but she really specializes in color and extensions, which is a personal passion project for her.

She is certified in Hairdreams Nano hair extensions, Bellami hair extensions (tape ins, volume wefts, i-tips, and keratin tips), and B3 Hair Co. Hidden Bead Method. “I also offer event hair and makeup, which is one of my top things to do as well. I even 011

do makeup tutorials for anyone who is interested,” Courtney says. “I really just love making people feel beautiful.”

Looking to expand her expertise and craft, Courtney recently took a class in Tampa, Florida, for the B3 Hair Co. Hidden Bead Method. Throughout the four day working retreat, Courtney spent two days in a hands-on class about the product. “I knew that I wanted to learn more about extensions, and I researched tons of different methods and companies. I wanted to learn from a company that supported other stylists and that didn’t shame other extension methods because I personally don’t want to be a part of a company like that,” Courtney says.

“Also, I wanted to learn on a real person and not just a mannequin head, so that led me to choose B3 Hair Co., which is a smaller company based in Florida. I couldn’t be happier with my decision.”

This class is just one example of how Courtney wants to expand her knowledge. Her career goals include learning more about and mastering extensions and color.

“I really do want to be able to be the best I can be,” Courtney says.

“Also, I would love to accomplish certifications in extensions for everyone. For example, I’d love to help people who have Androgenetic Alopecia, which is commonly known as male pattern baldness, but it can actually affect men and women. Who doesn’t deserve their dream hair?”

Courtney never regrets her decision to become a stylist. Instead, by researching and learning new techniques, she has found a way to contribute to the overall skill set at Studio 360 and follow her own passions. Plus, Courtney gets to make her own schedule so that she can be at every event for her little girl, Lyla, in the same way that Michelle was at every one of Courtney’s events as a kid.

In fact, the only struggle that Courtney has faced behind her stylist chair is sometimes “charging her worth” and talking about money, something that is uncomfortable for many people. “It’s almost like I choke when it comes time to talk about prices,” Courtney says, “But, ultimately, that’s one 012

small thing about a job that I love so much. I truly appreciate all of my clients so much and the people that are interested in me enough to sit in my chair!

When I say I love my clients I truly mean it.”

When she looks back on her career, Courtney says that it will only take a few accomplishments to truly feel like she was successful. “First, I’d love my knowledge of hair and techniques to continuously grow. I want to keep learning,” Courtney says. “But, I also look forward to the day when my list of clients includes names that I’ve seen for years and years.

Eventually, my long-term clients will become like my family, too.”

When she is not working, Courtney loves spending time with Lyla and her husband, Justin. The tightknit family loves doing everything together.

“My future goals for my family include growing our family, loving like Jesus did, and making the time to make memories,” Courtney says. “Our daughter, Lyla, is like our best friend. She is a perfect mix of tom-boy and girly girly. She will go out in the woods with us, fishing, camping, but she also loves to get her nails done, go shopping and of course, get her hair done. She also loves to go to new places, so every year, we try to plan something. She really is the best kid a parent could ask for.”

Courntey got pregnant with Lyla during her senior year of high school, and Courtney believes that, though it was hard at the time, her family needed Lyla. “I believe that every life is special, and I truly believe that God blessed our family with Lyla because he knew that we wouldn’t have my sister, Chloe, much longer,” Courtney says. “He knew that we would need some kind of light in our lives to make us keep going and keep our faith, and I believe Lyla was/is our little saving grace from the grief and heartache we have felt over the past 5 years.”

When Courtney’s sister, Chloe, was only twelveyears-old, she was found to have an aggressive grade four glioblastoma multiform in the center of her brain. The go-getter pre-teen stayed positive A LT M a g a z i n e | A p r i l 2 0 2 2

Debbie Brower

Hollie McElwee

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Kimberly Caldwell

Robin Stearns

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and served as an inspiration to many as she fought through surgeries and treatments. However, Chloe did pass away on July 26, 2017. “My sister Chloe is an absolute inspiration to me, I will forever cherish the memories I have of her,” Courtney says. “I always had a feeling that Chloe would run the country as president or something big like that, and true to her nature, when she got diagnosed she never showed an ounce of fear.

I couldn’t imagine how she felt, what she was thinking, and the pain she went through. Her faith became stronger every day after she heard the word ‘cancer,’ and for a 12-year-old to go through something like that, I just hurt for her.”

Throughout their childhood, Courtney always felt like it was her job as the big sister to go through all the scary things in life first, and then be there to support Chloe when it was her turn. However, seeing her sister face her diagnosis head-on inspired Courtney in ways she could not imagine.

“Her passing has taught me to worry less, pray more, and always have faith. My sister Chloe was not of this world, and I truly believe God saved her. I don’t know what from, but I know my God

saved her,” Courtney says.

As the Cox family dealt with the ups and downs of Chloe’s diagnosis, treatment, and untimely passing, the family grew even closer together.

Courtney may not have originally planned to become a stylist or work with her mom or face the heartache of loss, but looking back, she can see God guiding her to a career and a work home that would provide the support and love of fellow stylists, family, and clients. “The best thing about my job is my support system and my clients. I am so blessed to have the people I do in my life that really are my cheerleaders,” Courtney says. “I also love working with my mom. You won’t find me anywhere else unless she’s by my side because she is my biggest supporter and the best person I can have in my corner. I feel so blessed to work with her and our amazing Studio 360 family every day.”

Studio 360 Hair Salon

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Studio 360 Hair Stylists Michelle Cox Courtney Foster Scott Martin Christina Fatherree Meaghan Glover

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BRYANA BLOCK Liberty-Eylau High School

After graduating from Liberty-Eylau High School this May, Bryana will be attending Sam Houston State University on a full scholarship. “I am proud of myself for receiving this scholarship to further my education and basketball career. It has been a dream but also a prayer to further my basketball career after high school,” Bryana says. “I am super happy and proud because this also goes to show that hard work, prayer, and humbleness pays off. My goals are to be a successful student athlete by maintaining all A’s and making an impact on the court” Bryana believes that Liberty-Eylau helped support her future goals and plans by offering great classes and teachers to prepare her for an academic career on the collegiate level. She also believes that they have provided her with the 020

best strength and conditioning program around.

“I am extremely proud to say that I’ve received the title of District MVP two years in a row.

This achievement shows that hard work pays off,” Bryana says. “A quote I live by is #MTIP, which means, ‘Make the Impossible Possible.’

To me, this quote means that no obstacle is impossible to overcome—it’s up to us to make it possible. I am also a firm believer in the scripture, Phillipians 4:13, ‘With Christ all things are possible.’ I believe that with this mindset I can succeed at anything I put my mind to. Due to this quote and scripture, I believe that I will be a successful female basketball player and fairly wealthy woman out of Texarkana, despite how many people think this is impossible.”

Besides participating actively on the basketball A LT M a g a z i n e | A p r i l 2 0 2 2

team, Bryana is currently a member of the National Honor Society, Interact Club, and Student Council. Over the past few years, she has been involved in the Spanish Club, volleyball, cross country, and track. “Ultimately, these organizations and sports have taught me how to be a leader, give back to my community, and give my all no matter what I am doing,” Bryana says.

Bryana was also named the 2021 Homecoming Queen. “I am extremely proud to receive this honor. Even though it felt so surreal at the time, I loved every second of it,” Bryana says. “It makes me feel good to know that the student body at Liberty-Eylau thinks well of my character and personality for me to represent them as the 2021 Queen.”

If Bryana were to give advice to a younger person on how to make the most out of their high school experience, she would encourage them to be extremely involved. She thinks it is important to go to all the high school dances, and join all the clubs or sports available that fit their interests.

“I value this because participating in numerous clubs and sports opens up the opportunity to be around different people with various personalities, while also helping students establish bonds and make friends,” Bryana says. “The other advice I would give is just to be nice to people. Be nice to all your peers, teachers, administrators, and other staff because it makes high school much more enjoyable when you are surrounded by positive vibes.”

Supporting her at every game and through every obstacle, Bryana’s “big, loving” family includes some of her biggest cheerleaders, especially her mom, Keisha Willingham; grandma, Marye Willingham; grandpaw, Bryant Willingham; grandma, Linda Block; and sister, Kyana Norman.

“They have supported me throughout my high school career by always being there for me through the good and the bad. They were always a shoulder to lean on and cry on,” Bryana says.

“In essence, they have been by my side through everything, while always actively being my mental A LT M a g a z i n e | A p r i l 2 0 2 2

and physical support team. They send me good luck messages before games and come to as many games as they can. I couldn’t ask for a better family; I love and appreciate them all, including the other family members that were not named.”

Bryana says that she is most inspired by her mom and the strength and determination she shows.

“Throughout my childhood, I have always paid attention to my mom’s hustle; it is definitely one of a kind. My mom hasn’t ever let my sister or I want or need anything, even in tough times,” Bryana says. “Also, my mom presents the best version of herself on a daily basis, and that inspires me to be the best Bryana Block I can be.”

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WILL CARTER Texas High School

Will Carter is a thriving high school senior at Texas High School who is simultaneously looking forward to graduation and still soaking up every minute of time with family and friends. As he looks into the future, he also acknowledges the strong foundation that Texas High School has given to him the last four years. Since his freshman year, he has taken twelve AP classes and ten dual credit courses along with other honors classes and electives. “Taking this many higher-weighted and difficult classes has really prepared me for my college studies. My academic adviser, Mrs. Olivia Webb, has helped immensely since freshman year by encouraging me to take certain classes to stay at the top of my class, which has been a huge plus on my resume applying to all these colleges,” Will says. “My extracurriculars, hobbies, and social life paired with my academics has helped me tremendously in managing my time and learning 024

how to study effectively. Texas High encourages students to get involved on campus, and I took that advice and ran with it.”

Will is extremely involved on campus at Texas High. He is the Vice President in Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society, and he is a member of National Honor Society, Quill and Scroll Honor Society, Calculus Club, and Statistics Club. Also, Will serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the Tiger Yearbook, along with two of his childhood best friends Ellison Davis and Helen Clark Hays. In addition, he is Parliamentarian for the TigerVision club, but his larger roles for the award-winning live daily show have included co-anchor, script writer, and executive producer. On top of all of this, he is this year’s Student Body President, a prominent position that carries a lot of leadership and responsibility. “For the past four years, I have A LT M a g a z i n e | A p r i l 2 0 2 2

been actively involved in student council, and it has taught me so much throughout high school because as freshmen, you are looking up to and learning from the upperclassmen and how they run everything,” Will says. “As you get older, you slowly become the ones that are leading the meetings, running the pep rallies, and managing all of our school and community projects. This year particularly has taught me tons about leadership and dealing with our 250-member council.”

One of the teachers that Will looks up to the most is his student council and leadership adviser, Mrs. Susan Waldrep. “Texas High has so many great teachers and staff, but working so closely with Mrs. Waldrep these past two years has made me appreciate everything she does for me, student council, the school, and the community. I have become a better leader and person because of the lessons she has taught me over the years,” Will says.

Texas High is known for its traditions, and since Will is President of the Student Council, he is often the one helping to organize and lead them. His two favorite traditions this year centered around Friday night games and the student section up in the stands. “This year, I was a cheer escort, so I was able to be on the sideline at home and away games. At the games, I would often go up to the student section, which at Texas High, is a big deal–hence the ‘If you’re not yelling, go sit with your mom’ signs,” Will says. “It was nights like these with the student section, which was always pumped and loud, that will forever be some of my favorite high school memories.”

Before it was canceled, Will was so excited for the famous Texas v. Arkansas game because the rivalry week comes with a host of spirit days and traditions. However, Will and Mrs. Waldrep made the decision to postpone those traditions to homecoming week. “In hindsight, this made homecoming week ten times better. Of course, we had the traditional homecoming spirit days and activities, but Bacon Fry and Senior Sunrise were postponed to the Friday of the homecoming game.

Although I am not a morning person and we had to wake up before 5 a.m, the morning was so much fun and unforgettable,” Will says. “Homecoming week was extremely tiring, but in the best way A LT M a g a z i n e | A p r i l 2 0 2 2

possible. My friends and I were going nonstop, and we had a great time.”

Will also would not be where he is today without the support of his family. Will’s dad, Robee Carter, is a dentist around town and owns Smiles of Arkansas that has five offices around Southwest Arkansas. “He always pushes me to try my best in everything I do, and I definitely would not be where I am today without him,” Will says. “My mom, Robyn Carter, is also an amazing supporter, and she is a major role model in my life.”

Will is also close to his sister, Lauren Carter, even though she is five-years-older and lives in Dallas.

“We send each other daily TikToks that we find funny because our humor is so similar,” Will says.

“And, I can’t forget my niece, Emma Kate, who keeps me on my toes.”

What does the future hold for Will? He applied to fifteen colleges across the country. Seven of those colleges do not release their decisions until late March to early April, and he is anxiously and excitedly awaiting them. He has also toured and applied to colleges like Harvard, WashU, MIT, SMU, and TCU. “I don’t think I can go wrong with my final choice,” Will says. “Depending on the college, I will major in finance or economics.”

However, no matter what he chooses for a future career, Will knows that travel will be a major part of his life. He prides himself on coming up with detailed itineraries to destinations across the country. “If you need an hour-by-hour itinerary to Charleston and Savannah, I got it. Boston?

Yep. How about LA? That too. I spend hours researching the best flights, hotels, restaurants, and activities to do. I am a history buff, so I love traveling to cities with rich history,” Will says. “My itineraries are, like me, extremely organized, and I like to think of myself as a food connoisseur, so there is no shortage of restaurants on the lists.

Who knows? Maybe someday I’ll be a travel agent…”

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MARY DOWD Arkansas High School

When Mary Margaret Dowd reflects on her last four years at Arkansas High School, she knows that she is prepared for the academic college experience. Next year, she plans to attend the University of Colorado in Boulder in pursuit of a degree in environmental engineering. “By offering Advanced Placement and concurrent credit courses free of charge, I have been able to accumulate college credit at no cost to me.

With the guidance of course certified teachers, my peers and I can complete university level coursework in classes a fraction of the size of a lecture hall,” Mary says. “Not to mention, Arkansas High offers an array of said advanced courses in order for students to gain credit for more specific majors. For example, offering AP Calculus and AP Environmental Science allows me to gain substantial credits for my major before I even step foot in college.”

Mary is also grateful to teachers like Mrs. Hannah Hubrel. Mary says that she had the “blessing” of 026

taking a course taught by Mrs. Hubrel every year of high school. “Mrs. Hubrel is an outstanding teacher, no matter the subject being instructed. Mrs. Hubrel not only holds a library of information on various subjects, but she can break down that information to be comprehensible and, most importantly, interesting.

Hours of time and effort go into Mrs. Hubrel’s lesson plans and activities because she wants the information to appeal to the students,” Mary says. “Mrs. Hubrel is dedicated, empathetic, and encouraging to all her students no matter their background, and she is undoubtedly my favorite teacher.”

Besides the influence of great teachers throughout her high school years, Mary also felt supported by her parents, Chad and Melanie Dowd. “My parents have provided me with support and necessary materials to help me exceed academically,” Mary says. “Whether it was to sign me up for ACT tutoring to help with my once embarrassing reading score or to bring me to practice A LT M a g a z i n e | A p r i l 2 0 2 2

before the sun was up, I could rely on my parents.”

Mary’s years of experience at Arkansas High means that she has great advice for incoming students. She recommends that incoming freshman think about building a schedule that includes mental breaks based on their personal interests. “School is necessary, but it can be rather draining to work from one heavy course load to another. That being said, it is vital to follow your own interests regarding activities after school. It is mandatory to stay in class the whole day, but the decision to stay after school for extracurriculars is all yours,” Mary says. “For this reason, those activities must be something truly capturing your interest. Colleges love seeing various clubs and leadership roles on a resume, but that can come at a price. At the beginning of high school, I signed up for every extracurricular remotely catching my eye. I learned as an upperclassman that time is crucial, and devoting hours to activities I don’t adore can occupy time I could have spent on assignments or self care.”

Mary says that one of the biggest lessons she has learned during her high school experience revolves around learning to ask for help when needed and let go of some control. “Undoubtedly, high school can be a turbulent experience that can take a toll on an adolescent. It’s very easy to build a wall and barricade myself from others when turbulence arises, but this comes with consequences. When I close myself off to others, I unintentionally block assistance from others and hinder my ability to move past the obstacle,” Mary says. “To avoid this, I remind myself that I have to be open to help in order to receive it. This small reminder hands the power from the obstacle to me, and allows me to overcome difficult situations while receiving guidance from others. Having this realization slowly inches me towards resiliency, and I will continue to practice this lesson beyond my high school years.”

Also, when looking back, Mary sees how much afterschool activities play a part in a high schooler’s experience at school. Time spent inside school walls contributes to an impressive transcript and college readiness, but time spent outside of school directly affect one’s high school experience. “Teenagers hold the tendency to conversate about every relevant topic occurring around them. This means that nearly anything done outside of school hours will be talked about during the school day,” Mary says. “In order to make the most of a high school experience, one has to be aware that their activities outside of the classroom will be brought into discussion by their peers.”

When she has time outside of school, Mary A LT M a g a z i n e | A p r i l 2 0 2 2

predominantly spends her time in the yoga studio.

She currently teaches a warm vinyasa class and subs frequently at Texarkana Yoga. Before becoming an instructor, Mary devoted a considerable amount of her time to yoga in an effort to better her mental and physical health.” It was a slow climb to reach my goals, but the impact this practice has left on me has kept me returning to the studio. No other form of exercise truly compares to the body awareness, strength, and composure that can be achieved from yoga,” Mary says. “Beyond the practice, I have gained numerous connections and lasting relationships with fellow yogis.

I plan to continue my practice past my high school and college years, and to share the practice with my future children.”

In ten years, Mary’s vision for her life includes living in an environmentally conscious home with her husband, multiple cats, and possibly a child or two. “This dream is set in Colorado, and the floor to ceiling windows capture the beauty of the state. I’m working as an environmental engineer, possibly for a renewable energy company,” Mary says. “Outside of work, I find a way to squeeze in my yoga practice at a studio filled with passionate yogis.

I take a biweekly trip to a Central Market or Trader Joe’s in my fully electric car for all my gluten and dairy free needs.”

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JACOB JONES

Pleasant Grove High School Jacob Jones has attended Pleasant Grove since Kindergarten, and in this time, he says that Pleasant Grove has given him countless inspirational teachers who pushed him to pursue his dreams and exceed his potential. “They have supplied me with every opportunity a student could ask for,” Jacob says. “The most important thing that Pleasant Grove has done for me is make me feel valued. I matter at PG.” One piece of advice that Jacob has for younger students is to get involved in their school and to pursue their interests before they take on the many responsibilities that come with adulthood.

“You lose nothing by being more involved in your school and community. I would also stress that high school grades are important; however, your time 030

and experience is more important,” Jacob says.

“Younger students need to know when to focus on school work and when to focus on their social life. Maintaining a balance between all aspects of your life is the most important thing in high school, so students should focus on that balance before anything else.”

At Pleasant Grove High School, Jacob is involved in Photography, National Honor Society, UIL Academics, and Robotics. “I decided to do photography because I was in Yearbook during middle school, and I really enjoyed the photography side of journalism more than anything. My mom was in Yearbook when she attended PGHS and Mrs. Harris was her teacher,” Jacob says. “Now, almost twenty years later, Mrs. Harris is my journalism/ A LT M a g a z i n e | A p r i l 2 0 2 2

photography teacher.”

Jacob joined the National Honor Society because he wanted to interact with his community, act as a role model for younger students, and maintain a good academic record. “Through my experiences in high school, I’ve learned how to positively conduct myself in my community, how to treat others with respect and kindness, and to listen more than you speak,” Jacob says. “As I’ve grown up I have learned how to be a better person and a better role model for my younger classmates. This lesson will help me in all aspects of life.”

Jacob’s favorite teacher his freshman year was Mr. Womack, and he is the one who asked Jacob to join the UIL Current Issues and Events team for academic competitions. “At first, I didn’t know if I’d actually enjoy CI&E, but as time went on, it grew on me,” Jacob says. “It changes how I go through social media and the news. I actually have a reason to pay attention to news, rather than just mindlessly scrolling.”

However, the activity that may have influenced Jacob the most took him by surprise. He joined Robotics his sophomore year because he thought it would be a free class period; he quickly realized he was wrong. “We had a new teacher, Mr. Mullins, and this guy wanted us to compete in tournaments and do VEX robotics. Initially, I wanted to drop the class, but I ended up staying in the class until the end of my senior year. Now, I have qualified for the State VRC (VEX Robotics Competition) three years in a row, and it’s the first team to qualify in school history,” Jacob says. “I also recently qualified for the World VRC, where I will compete against 800 teams from 65 countries across the world. I was also the first in school history to qualify for Worlds. All of these extracurriculars have taught me to stay humble and how to be a leader when no one else will be.”

Jacob has looked forward to the State VRC (Vex Robotics Competition) more than anything this year because it was his last chance to qualify for the World VRC. He competed at the state-level for the past two years, but he did not perform well enough to qualify until this year. “Mr. Mullins and I were ecstatic! We were the first school in our area to make it in years, and this was the first time our school had ever made it,” Jacob says. “We didn’t plan on being this successful only three years into A LT M a g a z i n e | A p r i l 2 0 2 2

the program, but I am proud that I was a part of our school’s history. This event will change the Robotics program’s future.”

Jacob says that his Robotics teacher Mr. Mullins has been the most influential teacher throughout his high school career. Jacob says that Mr. Mullins has encouraged Jacob and his classmates and that he truly believes in them. “He has given me every opportunity to be successful. He has always stuck his neck out for me, and I thank him for that,” Jacob says. “He always has my best interest in mind, and he values me as a person rather than a student.”

Next year, Jacob plans to build on the opportunities that he has had at Pleasant Grove to learn, lead, and grow as he attends Texas A&M College Station where he plans to major in Chemical Engineering.

As he looks to the future, Jacob wants to continue to make his mother, Ellen Jones, proud of him. Ellen raised her three boys, Jared, Jeffery, and Jacob, all on her own. Jacob says that Ellen attended nurse practitioner school when he was in intermediate and middle school, so he was old enough to understand how stressful it must have been for her to raise a family and continue her education. “My mom instilled her hardworking and determined mindset in me indirectly. Seeing how she handled coming home after working a 12-hour shift at the ICU to three kids and a mountain of homework really made me realize how difficult life can be, but she never complained.

She did what had to be done every time without fail, and that is one of the most valuable lessons my mom taught me,” Jacob says. “My two older brothers showed me what to do and what not to do in life.

Since I was the youngest sibling, they were always my competition. Throughout school, I always wanted to do better than them, so they helped make me work harder.”

As he looks forward to high school graduation and then college, Jacob knows that he will carry the influence of his mother with him and that he will strive to be as hardworking and determined as she is. “My mom is hands down the hardest working person I have ever met. She has raised me to be the caring, smart, and respectful young man I am today,” Jacob says. “I strive to be half the person my mom is, and I hope to be half the parent she has been to me and my brothers one day.”

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KYNDAL MISSLEDINE Redwater High School

When she graduates from Redwater High School, Kyndal Missildine plans to attend Arkansas State University in Jonesboro and major in nursing to obtain her BSN. While at Redwater, Kyndal has been able to take a phlebotomy and medical assistant class where students are able to draw blood and take a test to get certified. “Redwater has helped support my future plans by having classes available to me that will benefit me in college. By taking these classes, I will be able to go into college with a head start in my nursing degree, and I’ll be able to work in the field I plan to get my degree in,” Kyndal says. “At first I was scared to draw someone’s blood, but with the support of my teacher I was able to do it and now can do it with ease. This has taught me that I can do anything I put my mind to, and that was a 034

lesson I needed to learn before I went to college.”

In ten years, Kyndal sees herself graduating from college and finding work as a nurse anesthetist.

“My plan is to finally have the job I have dreamed about ever since I was twelve years old. I also hope to be married and have a kid or two and have the most beautiful family,” Kyndal says “I hope I will be able to provide for my family emotionally and financially and that we will be able to do all the things we love.”

Kyndal says that the accomplishment she is most proud of from her high school years is her ability to maintain high grades while staying involved.

She has maintained a position as second in her class, and she hopes that she will end high A LT M a g a z i n e | A p r i l 2 0 2 2

school as the class salutatorian. “Being a student athlete is challenging, especially with a lot of pressure to have high A’s, being involved in multiple clubs, and playing two different sports,” Kyndal says. “However, I would not go back and change the activities I did in high school because it was all so worth it despite the struggles.”

Currently, Kyndal serves as President of Key Club, which she loves because the group gets to do so many events to help the community.

She is also the Vice President of Future Health Professionals (HOSA), a member of the National Honor Society, and the Vice President of Spanish Honor Society, which is important to her because she hopes to minor in Spanish while in college.

Kyndal has also been involved in athletics all four years of high school. She has played four years of varsity softball and three years of varsity volleyball. “I have played sports ever since I was able to walk and have always had a special love for them,” Kyndal says. “Although being a student athlete has its struggles there is no other way I would have spent my time in high school.”

At every softball or volleyball game, Kyndal has been able to look into the stands and see the faces of her supportive family, which include her mom, Hershie; her sisters, Katy and Kinsee; and her grandparents, Meme and Pawpaw. “My family is also constantly supporting me either by coming to my softball and volleyball games or by telling me goodluck or good job when they are not able to support me in person. However, COVID made it especially hard on my grandparents to be able to come to as many events as they normally would,” Kyndal says. “My family tells me often that they are proud of me, which is one of the reasons I work so hard to perform well academically and athletically. Making my family proud makes me happy, so they motivate me to be successful.”

love the sport more than I ever thought I would and has helped me become a better player than I ever thought I could be,” Kyndal says. “Coach Usrey is my favorite because he has pushed me academically and athletically more than anyone else. He has always had high expectations of me and pushed me to do better. I would not be the person or athlete I am today without him.”

Because she loves softball so much, Kyndal also works as an umpire for the spring leagues.

“I love doing it because I get to work and be around the sport I love most,” Kyndal says. “I also love getting to see the younger girls playing softball because it reminds me of how I have loved softball since I was a little girl playing coach pitch.”

The advice Kyndal would give to younger students on how to make the most of their highschool years is to study and work hard in school, but not to let their grades define them.

She says that high school goes fast, and students will want to have experiences to look back on. “If you make a bad grade on a test it is not the end of the world. You are more than your grades. You are how you treat others, how you handle bad situations, and so much more,” Kyndal says. “The biggest lesson I have learned during high school has been to take any failures and learn from them instead of being negative. To me, high school is a lot of trial and error and is supposed to prepare you for college or a job. If you make mistakes and do not learn something from them, then you have wasted your time.”

Kyndal has also grown from the support of her favorite teacher and coach, Coach Usrey. He was her softball coach for all four years of high school softball. “Coach Usrey has helped me A LT M a g a z i n e | A p r i l 2 0 2 2

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Drug Take Back Initiative Operation Medicine Cabinet The Texarkana Arkansas Police Department is proud to partner with Texarkana Emergency Center in an effort to remove unused and out of date prescription medicines from your homes.

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

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

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financial focus

STRINGER WEALTH MANAGEMENT RAYMOND JAMES FINANCIAL STRINGERWEALTHMANAGEMENT.NET

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Five habits of 401(k) millionaires RETIREMENT AND LONGEVITY

Although a million dollars may seem like a daunting figure, especially if you haven’t been diligent about saving, there’s good news: you don’t have to make $1 million to save $1 million.

Many individuals who are saving for retirement aim to have at least $1 million in their retirement accounts when they exit the workforce. But retirement savings aren’t a one-sizefits-all matter. Instead, the amount you’ll need depends on a variety of factors, including your lifestyle, specific financial obligations, future plans and health needs.

According to a recent study, the number of 401(k) plans with a balance of $1 million or more hit 180,000 in the first quarter of 2019, marking a 35% increase from the end of 2018.

While the circumstances of these 401(k) participants may have varied on the margins, all were average workers who followed a handful of basic principles that enabled them to help successfully prepare for retirement. Below, we explore five of these principles, including how you can apply them to your financial plan.

Start Early A powerful tool when it comes to saving for retirement, compound interest refers to the interest you gain on a loan or deposit. And the best way to take advantage of compounding is by saving and investing early on. In fact, a recent study showed that the average 401(k) millionaire started saving early and remained invested for at least 30 years.

As you may have read in some of our other pieces, compounding in positive markets – even at a modest rate of return – can allow you to increase an initial investment over a period of time.

Maximize your contributions In 2022, employees can contribute a maximum of $20,500 to their 401(k) accounts, not counting any potential employer match. Depending on your income, maxing out your contributions may be more challenging earlier in your career. However, studies have found that the average 401(k) millionaire contributed a minimum of 10% to 15% of their income year after year.

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Make the most of your employer’s match Many employers offer to match their employees’ 401(k) contributions up to a certain percent, and failing to meet this match is like leaving “free money” on the table. Even if you’re not in a position to max out your 401(k) contributions, you should consider contributing the minimum amount necessary to earn your employer’s match.

Not convinced? According to one study, 28% of contributions in the average account of 401(k) millionaires came from their employers. Each year, employer contributions increased the average 401(k) millionaire’s savings by almost $4,600.

Choose the right asset allocation A 2000 study by economists Roger Ibbotson and Paul Kaplan found that asset allocation accounted for more than 90% of the variation in a portfolio’s return over time. If you’re a long-term investor, you know that asset allocation has been one of the most important determinants of your investment earnings over time.

Investing in growth-oriented investments can help significantly boost your retirement savings through the years. While this strategy may not be appropriate for everyone, research has shown that the average 401(k) millionaire invested roughly 75% of their portfolio in growth-oriented investments such as equity mutual funds.

Avoid cashing out early As most 401(k) millionaires know, staying the course and maximizing your earnings are crucial in helping meet your long-term retirement goals. You should resist the urge to cash out early even if you change jobs.

Instead, consider rolling your current 401(k) balance into your new employer’s 401(k) plan or another option.

Early withdrawals come with tax consequences and other penalties. It’s also best to avoid abandoning your investment strategy in turbulent market conditions. Many investors who cashed out in a market downturn missed part or all of the subsequent recovery.

NEXT STEPS:

• Assess your progress. If you haven’t checked your 401(k) balance in a while, now is a good time to do so. Understanding where you are can help you determine a sound strategy to attempt to reach $1 million in savings by retirement.

• Revisit your investment strategy. Is your asset allocation consistent with your retirement savings goals?

Your investment mix should reflect your growth expectations and risk tolerance, as well as your time horizon until retirement.

• Make necessary adjustments. Depending on how far you are from your retirement goals, you may need to increase your monthly contribution rate or adjust your investment mix. Working together, you and your financial advisor can navigate these decisions and help you work toward the retirement you envision.

Sources: cnbc.com/2019/06/25/how-to-become-a-401k-millionaire.html; fidelity.com/viewpoints/tcm:526-124671-9451.comp; Ibbotson, Roger G. and Kaplan, Paul D., Does Asset Allocation Policy Explain 40, 90, 100 Percent Of Performance? Financial Analysts Journal, Jan/ Feb 2000, Vol. 56, No. 1. Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=279096 Investing involves risk and investors may incur a profit or a loss. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Withdrawals from tax-deferred accounts may be subject to income taxes, and prior to age 59 ½ a 10% federal penalty tax may apply. Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Holding investments for the long term does not ensure a profitable outcome. The foregoing is not a recommendation to buy or sell any individual security or any combination of securities.

© 2022 Raymond James Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange / SIPC, and Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA / SIPC, are subsidiaries of Raymond James Financial, Inc. Raymond James® and Raymond James Financial® are registered trademarks of Raymond James Financial, Inc. A LT M a g a z i n e | A p r i l 2 0 2 2

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Suzie TK Snippets By: Suzie Tyler

An Electronic Generation My generation was the first to be “entertained” by electronics. In 1956, my parents bought our first black and white television. We gathered as a family around the TV set to watch the Miss America Pageant, Father Knows Best, and Lassie, but we still played outside and created ways to have a good time!

Reflecting on the fifties, I remember living in a close-knit neighborhood. We didn’t lock our doors and there was a genuine concern for others, as people watched out for the children in the area. I had respect for them but if I acted badly, someone would tell my mom and she would know about it before I arrived home and I did not want to feel my mother’s wrath.

In this new electronic world, it is nice to have an instant connection with my children but our cell phones control family meal conversations and entertainment. Don’t get me wrong, I love my cell phone and use my apps to pay bills, check my bank balance, and listen to my daily devotional.

I walked into a restaurant a few days ago and saw all the heads bowed and thought, how nice, that family is praying before their meal.

No, as I looked closer, I could see they were playing games, searching google, and texting their friends.

Those of us beyond our 60s entered a social media world unknown previously. Some of us have adapted to an extent, while others refuse to learn. I am just now getting technically savvy about Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, but TikTok is beyond my pay grade. Now I’m being introduced to words like Artificial Intelligence, Holograms, Cryptocurrency, and Metaverse.

The newest experience, Metaverse World, simply put, is a 3D virtual reality world focused on the social connection where users can interact and experience events in a place with little to no accountability.

I really can’t blame the young people. The world as we know it gets more complicated and unstable every day, and I’m ready to be transported to a place where I can also experience peace and tranquility.

No matter how you slice it, a make-believe virtual world of fake lives with no consequences is not real life.

We have become more self-centered, and inclined to put ourselves and gadgets before our love for God and neighbors. Most people will check their Facebook before they read their daily devotional. I will be the first to raise my hand as guilty. We need a life values overhaul.

If we don’t like our current society’s behavior, we only need to look at numero uno! Charity begins at home, but so does change. I can’t change you, but I can change myself.

When was the last time you put down your gadget to volunteer or do a good deed for someone anonymously? … Well, that’s too long!

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Fish Tales with Mike Brower

The Shallow End of the Gene Pool With the new electronics, fishing is not fishing anymore. It’s a TV show underwater. Why do people need two TVs on the front and two on the back?.....never understood that.

Power Poles… real expensive boat anchors.

Not sure how people are going to go fishing with an electric outboard or how long it will last when the boat is heavy from being one big battery.

Next year at the fishing expo, it would not surprise me if the new lure winner was a robot bait -- just chunk it out and wait.

Why do guys who can’t take care of their family need a $100,000 boat? Better yet, why does their wife let them buy it?

Ever wonder why fishermen go fishing before the sun comes up?

Because sunrise is a cool time to be up.

Tasty Donuts Donut • Croissant • Kolache • Fruit Sticks • Burrito Biscuit • Muffin • Coffee

There is no cheap fishing. Fishing itself is expensive relative to the tangible benefits. However, the intangible benefits are glorious.

All fishermen are liars. Well, everyone except my friends and me, and I suspect them most of the time.

Whatever happened to Tide Craft Boats? I do miss the old stick steering Kingfisher.

I’m the type guy that will pull every soft plastic bait into several pieces and pocket the tails so my co-angler can’t put one together -- if I don’t like them.

NOW OPEN IN TWO LOCATIONS!!

1443 N. Kings Hwy. 903. 838. 0422

K-Mart Shopping Center 903. 223. 0149

Donuts are ALWAYS the Answer!

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EVENTS2022

april

APRIL 1-10

FOUR STATES FAIR & RODEO Fair opens @ 5PM daily, 10AM Saturdays & 1PM Sundays; Closed on Tuesday, April 5th

APRIL 5

2022 COLLEGE FAIR It’s the Texarkana, Arkansas College Fair with 20+ colleges and universities from the Four States Area attending this year’s event. Join us on Tuesday, April 5th, from 5pm-8pm at #1 Legion Drive, Texarkana, Arkansas.

APRIL 10

LORIE TURNAGE HEWETT BENEFIT Benefit to help support Lorie Turnage Hewett in her fight in Ocular Cancer.

All proceeds benefit medical and travel expenses. Sunday April 10, 2022 at Redbone Magic Brewery, 1pm - 5pm. Featuring: Dusty Rose Band, Jake Gathright, Black Powell, and Jade Morton. There will be raffle tickets, auction, and bake sale.

APRIL 12

CHILL & GRILL The Spring 2022 TAMUT Chill & Grill event for high school juniors and seniors is set for Tuesday, April 12th, at Texas A&M University-Texarkana at 7101 University Avenue, Texarkana, Texas. For more information or questions, contact Ambrosia Dodson.

APRIL 15

GLOW IN THE DARK EASTER EGG HUNT Glow-In-The-Dark Easter Egg Hunt and Resurrection Chalk Talk will be held at Northern Hills Baptist Church, 6000 Sammy Lane, Texarkana, AR, on Friday, April 15th, from 7-9pm. This event is open to 4 year olds through 6th grade. Pizza and drinks too! Register at tinyurl.com/2x4axj5m ASAP!

APRIL 23

SCOTT JOPLIN BUS TOUR Join the Texarkana Museums System for a drive through history featuring Texarkana’s own, Scott Joplin. This living history bus tour begins at the P.J. Ahern Home, and visits the sites and neighborhoods where young Scott Joplin developed his extraordinary musical talent. Participants will have a chance to meet Scott Joplin along the way! First tour at 11:00 a.m. Tickets are $10 each or $5 for TMS Members. Seats are limited so reservations are recommended!

APRIL 23

TWIN CITY MEAT UP Calling all grill masters, avid shoppers, antique car owners, and families!

Please join the Junior League of Texarkana for the Inaugural Twin City Meat Up. Visit JLTexarkana.Org to learn more.

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Local Rescues

FOSTERS NEEDED!

CONTACT LOCAL RESCUES TO FIND OUT MORE INFORMATION! BOXER RESCUE OF TEXARKANA Facebook.com/ BoxerRescueOfTexarkana

TOOTSIE

Passion For Pooches

RILEY

Passion For Pooches

MUTTLEY CREW GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUE Facebook.com/ MuttleyCrewRescue PASSION FOR POOCHES (mostly small dogs) Facebook.com/passionforpooches TEXARKANA ANIMAL LEAGUE Facebook.com/ TexarkanaAnimalLeague TEXARKANA HUMANE SOCIETY TexarkanaHumaneSociety.org Facebook.com/ TexarkanaHumaneSocietyInc

COWBOY

Muttley Crew

BEAR & GAGE

Texarkana Animal League

BRANSON Muttley Crew

GUNNER

Boxer Rescue of Texarkana

ADOPT. DON'T SHOP. 046

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340 MEADOWRIDGE CIRCLE TEXARKANA, AR Bill Spradlin Realtor 903-748-3186

Tracy Spradlin Broker 903-748-2477

BEAUTIFUL CUSTOM BUILT HOME FEATURES THREE BEDROOMS, THREE BATHS, BONUS ROOM UPSTAIRS, SECOND LIVING AREA DOWNSTAIRS COULD BE PLAYROOM OR FOURTH BEDROOM, FORMAL DINING, BREAKFAST BAR, LARGE FAMILY ROOM WITH FIREPLACE, GRANITE COUNTERTOPS, LLV FLOORING, CUSTOM PRINT CARPET AND CUSTOM CABINETS, INTERIOR SHUTTER BLINDS.PRIVACY FENCED BACKYARD, TWO CAR GARAGE. THIS HOME IS A MUST SEE!

Jan Williams Realtor 903-277-5771

Pam Hollingsworth Realtor 903-277-1222

John Trubia Realtor 817-701-8402 Now Servicing the Dallas Fort Worth Area!

Ronnie Olson Realtor 903-280-6831

Amber McCormack Administrative Assistant 903-223-0710

Brenda Elrod Property Manager 903-559-1511

Candace Henry Assistant Property Manager 903-276-0971 A LT M a g a z i n e | A p r i l 2 0 2 2

1356 N. Kings Hwy. | Nash, TX 75569 | 903.223.0710 billsprad@aol.com | spradlintd@aol.com www.ImpactRealtyOnline.com 0 47

GUNS, GUNS,

GUNS

GREAT PRICES ON FIREARMS! • • • •

PRIVATE LESSONS MALE AND FEMALE INSTRUCTORS LICENSE TO CARRY CLASS RENTAL GUNS AVAILABLE

101 SLATON DRIVE, NASH, TX LEGENDARYSHOOTINGSPORTS.COM 048

FOUND AN AWESOME DEAL ONLINE? WE’LL HANDLE THE FFL TRANSFER!

903.336.6139

OPEN TUES-SAT: 10:00-6:00 | SUN - MON: CLOSED

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