Christmas during my childhood years brings to mind sweet memories. Our house was always decorated to the hilt. Thanksgiving Day was spent putting the tree up and lights on the roof and the shrubbery. Christmas Day included the five of us: my mother, father, sister, brother, and me. My brother and I had so much fun every Christmas, playing with new toys and eating my mom’s great cooking. She never allowed anything precooked on the dinner table, and we never complained because it was so delicious. She eventually taught me to make all the great recipes, and my family enjoys them today. Included in the Christmas festivities would be our family gathering around the piano as I played, and all would sing. Our favorite songs were “Angels We Have Heard on High” and “Little Drummer Boy.”
This year, we have a new tradition – celebrating Christmas with our daughter Jaclyn, son Michael, and their families earlier in the month. Jaclyn’s occupation as a Texas State Trooper requires her to work on Christmas Day, so we made other arrangements. We are looking forward to a wonderful, long weekend with everyone in San Antonio. I will make my mother’s dressing, my sweet potato casserole, and many other dishes. Mike and I will enjoy a quiet Christmas at home on Christmas Day. We love being together, cooking steaks, watching football, and celebrating Jesus’ birth. The gift I am most looking forward to giving and receiving is a trip to Las Vegas with Mike! We have planned a special time together to renew our wedding vowels at the Graceland Chapel, including a fabulous dress and a time of sharing my love for my husband again! As you move into this holiday season, I leave you with this advice: Don’t let family stress you out. We have learned to accept what the holidays look like now and look forward to it. Just breathe and let it happen. Life is too short.
Growing up, I always loved helping my mother decorate the house for Christmas. We had a big tree that we circled, passing the lights around, while Mom ensured they were in the perfect place. I remember my siblings and me taking turns placing ornaments on the tree, especially the special ones for our birth year. Every Christmas Eve, we would open one present, which was always pajamas and slippers. Those would be the ones we wore to bed that night. The next morning, I was the early bird, and I would wait for my mom to wake up to make the best breakfast rolls in the world. Once everyone else awakened, we would sit around the tree and open the gifts in age order. The Christmas Day parade was always on in the background. Later that day, we would always watch White Christmas, my mom’s favorite movie, while waiting for Christmas dinner to finish cooking. Ham, scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, sweet potatoes, and rolls always graced our table, and it was all so delicious! One of the best presents I received on Christmas Day as a child included my bike. It was blue and a perfect size for me! As an adult, I have cherished the gifts that have come in the form of pots and pans from my mother, anything from my husband, Carl, and my fur baby, Davis.
My family has always loved Christmas because of the meaning behind it. It was never about the gifts and Santa. It was always about the reason for the season! I dearly miss the feeling of waking up on Christmas morning and the pure excitement the day held. I also miss having my father present; he passed away nine years ago. As a reminder, take a moment to fully experience this holiday season. Don’t stress about anything that is out of your control. Remember to say “I love you” to everyone. I am looking forward to spending this Christmas Day with my husband and our wonderful dogs, Sawyer and Davis.
I loved traditions growing up, especially when it came to Christmas time! My birthday falls on December 6th, and I always wanted Mom to have the Christmas tree up by then. She was very good about this and had an impressive supply of Christmas decorations, many of which are in my home today. Another favorite tradition was attending church on Christmas Eve with my grandparents, Bill and Jean Crain. It was a beautiful candlelight service, and in my younger years, I felt so grown up being allowed to hold a candle and sing “Silent Night” with the congregation. We would transition to our home and spend the night playing games, visiting, and eating the best foods.
As I have grown and welcomed children and grandchildren, I have learned that being flexible and working around nap times and in-law schedules equates to a much happier environment, a trait my mother-in-law, Teresa, taught me by example. This Christmas, I am most excited for my grandchildren to open their gifts. I cannot wait to see their faces as they rip away the wrapping paper, and squeal! While I enjoy giving, my favorite gift I ever received was from my Aunt Debbie. I have a passion for cooking and generational family recipes, just like her. She had my great grandmother, Mae Eaton’s, handwritten recipe for Jam Cake transferred to a cutting board. It hangs in my kitchen year-round! Speaking of family, I have come to miss those gone before me more and more in the holiday season. My mom’s parents were so gracious to listen to me play the piano for hours and hours, pecking away at “Oh Holy Night.” I miss my MeMaw and our time spent making her famous Divinity and pecan pies. I long for the days when my Uncle Sam would come to town and bring so much fun and laughter, even when we were forced to wear our Sunday best and act properly. This holiday season, I ask you to pause and remember that we celebrate the birth of our King and Savior. However, do not allow your thoughts to stop there. Follow Him to the cross, where He invited you to eternal life. Merry Christmas!
“Thank you to Robert and Becky Bunch for the use of their beautiful home for our cover portrait.”
It truly is better to give than to receive. During this holiday season, we encourage you to give alongside your family. Volunteering as a family can help families learn more about each other, build character, and create memories. It teaches children empathy, kindness, compassion, and most importantly, selflessness. Most of all, it allows you to gift something of yours - time, money, or resources - that continues to give to others throughout the year. Below is a list of places that would love to have families volunteer during December. Consider contacting one (or more) of these organizations to see how your family can give a gift that keeps giving.
620
West 4th Street, Texarkana, Texas
Focus: Mission Texarkana ministers to the residents of Texarkana by providing daily meals, food pantry items, vocational assistance, and, most importantly, the gospel message of grace found in Christ Jesus.
Ways to Serve: The organization is always looking for volunteers in the many different areas it serves. Plus, its annual gift-wrapping fundraiser is held in December. Gift-wrapping is offered for donations to Mission Texarkana. Call 903-792-1301 or fill out a volunteer form at https://missiontexarkana.org/become-avolunteer/.
1900 Marietta St. Texarkana, Arkansas 71854
Focus: We Are Washington is a community outreach program initiated by the 501(c)(3) organization I Am a Hero, Inc. Its aim is to assist members of the community in enhancing their quality of life through the promotion of awareness for both children and adults and the provision of financial and other forms of assistance to families. This is achieved by utilizing the center as a central hub for hosting classes, programs, and community events.
How can people serve: Their center is in constant need of dedicated mentors who can guide and support youth. If you have a deep interest in a specific subject and want to share your knowledge, you can teach a class. Contact Laura McDowell at 903-748-3408 or email her at lmcdowell@wearewashington.org.
2010 Moores Lane, Suite 109, Texarkana, TX 75503
Focus: Concho Hearts Hospice is dedicated to providing compassionate care wherever you call home. Their team of Nurses, Aides, Chaplains, Social Workers, Volunteers and Doctors provide symptom management, patient and family support while coping with an end of life illness.
How can people serve: Email April Billingsley at abillingsley@conchoheartshospice.com or call at (903) 710-1380 for all the information to help this organization.
4802 S Kings Highway, Texarkana, TX
Focus: Runnin WJ Ranch is a Christian 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides therapeutic riding classes. Its core operation involves over 400 volunteers. Runnin' WJ Ranch is a PATH International Premier Accredited Center.
How can people serve: The ranch is looking for volunteers, ages 14 and up, to help in their equine-assisted therapy classes on weekday mornings, Tuesday through Thursday. Horse leaders and sidewalkers are needed to assist the riders. Call the ranch at 903-838-3223 and let them know your family is ready to volunteer!
1915 Olive Street, Texarkana, TX
Focus: Hands On Texarkana is all about serving our community through volunteerism. They believe engaging people to volunteer transforms our community and makes it the best place to live and work. This organization has a youth volunteer organization, skilled parenting classes, and senior transportation, and it runs the Collins Home, where rental income goes back into the community.
How can people serve: This organization needs volunteer drivers to transport older citizens to the doctor, dentist, grocery store, and other necessary errands. Your family can also come together and deliver monthly food boxes and pantry essential bags to seniors. For more information, please call 903-798-3211.
4605 Texas Blvd, Texarkana, TX
Focus: Heritage provides patients and their families with love, dignity, and respect through their home health and hospice services. How can people serve: Volunteers are needed in memory care independent living centers and nursing homes. These volunteers can call bingo, sing, paint patients' nails, read the Bible to them, and overall offer companionship. They also need volunteers in the office who help with mailings, making phone calls, and filing. Finally, they look for volunteers to make a freezable casserole dinner, and Heritage disburses them to families who have lost a loved one or are in the hospital. Please reach out to Kristy
214 Spruce Street, Texarkana, TX
Focus: United Way of Greater Texarkana is a local non-profit organization that advances the common good in the Greater Texarkana area. To improve lives in our region, the United Way of Greater Texarkana focuses on the three building blocks of a good life: education, income, and health. How can people serve: Financial donations are always welcome, but you can also volunteer your time. They are always looking for more advocates, event volunteers, and fundraisers. Apply to be a volunteer at https://texarkanaunitedway.org/volunteer/.
ifts that keep givin
It is called “the most wonderful time of the year,” but the holidays can be less than merry for many people. An increase in our schedules, the overwhelming gift-buying guilt, and our children acting irregularly are just a few things that add to the holiday stress.
While you may often feel pressured to keep your spirits up and a smile on your face during the holidays, it is not always a healthy and realistic choice. Your emotional health concerns do not simply disappear just because it is the holiday season. In fact, you may find emotional issues worsen at this time of year.
I sat down with Bianca Kisselburg, a Licensed Professional Counselor - Supervisor, and asked her for ways to maintain Peace on Earth during this holiday season. With her helpful tips, you can be more prepared to handle what is in store this month and find peace over the holiday season.
Financial Peace
“In our day-to-day lives, we typically live within our means, but when it comes to the holidays, there is a tendency to feel like one has to go above and beyond. It often includes buying all the grandest gifts. Some take out loans to buy Christmas gifts, placing themselves living outside their means. This borrowing introduces additional stress, which carries over into the next year, trying to pay for the holiday they could not afford,” Bianca says. Her advice is to always live within your means. It is not all about the gifts but rather about making memories. “As I look back over my childhood, I remember there were gifts and there was a tree, but I couldn’t tell you what the gifts were. I can tell you that I remember all the moments with my family. That is the part you need to pour into instead of spending all the money,” Bianca revealed.
Social Peace
Social stress comes with all the obligations found during the month. Bianca says, “You hit Christmas time, and all of the parties come – school, work, friends – and often, we feel like we must go to every event, either by obligation or pressure. In reality, one needs to make a schedule, ask yourself which events you really wish to attend, and let the others go. That chaos of trying to get to all the events builds pressure and stress because you are essentially trying to outrun the clock,” Bianca says. Find social peace in allowing yourself time to breathe during the holidays and not over-committing yourself.
Family Peace
The holidays often lead to spending time with family members you may not get along with. They may be completely toxic or just rub you wrong, but it becomes a time that we need to learn to navigate those people. “Keep an eye on your own mental health and well-being. We’ve always heard the saying, ‘Oh, you can’t choose your family,’ but you can choose how much time you spend with them. You may have to miss one family event to make sure you are okay, and that is okay!” Bianca says.
Bianca advises maintaining peace with difficult family members: “First, you can say no to these family gatherings. Secondly, you can limit time at a specific family gathering. There may be a reason you do not want to miss a family gathering. You can still attend the gathering, but be aware of your boundaries, both physical and verbal. You can either physically distance yourself from these family members by moving to a different room or set your verbal boundaries by speaking up for yourself. If you have never set boundaries with a specific person before, there is a potential that person will get angry. It is okay for them to get upset, but they cannot take it out on you or make you feel guilty. If that occurs, then you may have to put the physical boundary in place,” Bianca explains.
Bianca also recommends avoiding specific conversations at family gatherings including politics and religion.
Family Members Gone, But Not Forgotten
“Even though someone might look at you weird, set a place-setting at the table for the loved one you are missing. Have a spot to remember them, take time to reminisce, and include them as a part of your holiday,” Bianca says. “I would also encourage you that if you know someone who has lost someone, check in on them. You do not necessarily have to drag them out because they may not be ready to interact with others, but knowing they were thought of will be huge for them.”
Your Children’s Peace
“When children are pulled in many different ways over the holiday stretch and become overwhelmed, they do not have the verbal skills to say, ‘I’ve had too much.’ In fact, the younger the child is, the more they function from the right side of their brain, which is nonverbal. At age 7-9, the left brain (verbal) comes online. The way they will communicate with you is through their behavior. The obvious signs can include yelling, screaming, and crying, but they could also include behavior that is different from what they typically present. You may have a quiet child who is now very loud, cannot sit still, biting at nails, or even pulling at their hair. Other cues could include being happy one moment and becoming easily upset the next moment,” Bianca says. “The thing to remember is that we, as adults, are the regulator for the child. If we are stressed, the child will be stressed. Children look at us to be the regulator, and if we are not okay, they are not okay.” It is essential to be aware of your children’s behavior and the signs of them being overwhelmed or over-stimulated. Gather your family and depart, allowing your child to find peace.
et there be peace on eart
Navigating split families is hard for children during the holidays. Many children experience different rules at different homes, which makes the child navigate these changes year-long. “The more the parents can communicate during this holiday season, the better for the child. Many struggles for the child arise when the parents are not on the same page. When the parents choose to put their child’s best interest first, the better off the child will be,” Bianca says.
Peace Over Stress
High and sometimes unrealistic expectations for the holidays can add stress to your life. Loneliness and grief can be heightened during the holidays. Be sure to address your mental health and to check on others during this season. Remember, it is acceptable to say “no” for both you and your children’s sake. Allow peace to enter your life and for the holiday season to be light-hearted, as Bianca mentioned. Enjoy making memories with those you love.
Bianca is a Licensed Professional Counselor - Supervisor at Olive Tree Counseling, where she sees children and adults.
She is also a Registered Play Therapist™ – Supervisor and an Internationally Credentialed Sand Tray Therapist - Provider, one of only ten worldwide. If a client is unable to find the words to unlock traumatic experiences, Bianca uses sand trays to bypass walls and blocks.
She is also Geek Therapy Certified, which allows her clients to bring in things related to their hobbies for therapy purposes.
Bianca is the owner and founder of Playful Connections Sandtray Institute, where she trains other counselors in sand tray therapy, and Serendipity Sand & Play Shop, where she sells miniatures and compounds for sand trays.
Dan L. Martin, DOM Doctor of Oriental Medicine Northfield
At the intersection of domestic violence, homelessness, and addiction stands an organization ready to assist young mothers and their children through a life-altering program. This faith-based establishment stands ready to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of young mothers facing crisis. It is a place where grace is offered, strengths are cultivated, and a transition to stability is achieved.
Grace House was established in 2017 by its founder, Karen Rayfield. Executive Director Whitney Jackson describes the origination: “Karen was working downtown with Church Under the Bridge. A judge was trying to find a mentor for a girl who had no place to go and asked Karen to become this girl’s mentor. Karen agreed, but they needed a place for her to stay. Another lady in Karen’s church, Church on the Rock, was transitioning out of a home used for her business and willingly donated a house for this girl to transition in. That’s how Grace House was founded!”
In Texarkana, a mother in crisis has few options for getting help. While the Salvation Army has two rooms, they stay full. That leaves the option of jumping from couch to couch or running Stateline Avenue.
With this house donation, Karen and her team could begin to reach more in-crisis women in the area. The program increased, with 15 people living in a 1,700-square-foot house with two bathrooms. A major need was discovered, and Whitney’s heart desired to partner with Karen to make a bigger impact on the city and serve more women. Whitney began diving into the real estate market to find a better solution. “We were able to purchase our
current building from Opportunities. They were shutting down their in-patient facility, and it was the perfect fit for us. We now reside in a ten-bedroom, eight-bath facility that is about 5,000 square feet. Now, we can take in more women and children that are in crisis,” Whitney says.
Grace House is comprised of expectant mothers or mothers within the age range of 17-30 who have been displaced, homeless, or at risk for homelessness and agree to participate in the program to reach self-sufficiency. To ensure safety at the home, Grace House accepts mothers with children who are age five and below. “If a mother does not have her child(ren) and is pursuing custody, we will walk through that with them. We just recently had a success story of a lady who began our program in January 2022, and this past September, she regained custody of her child. We were able to see her be reunited with her child!” Whitney says. “Most of the time, mothers do not have the support needed to care for their child. 99% of the ladies in our home have been impacted by foster care, and what you see is a lack of a mentor, authority, rules, and structure in their lives. We are taking women who may be lacking skills to be a good mom, and we bring them in and teach and train them how to be a mom, a daughter, and a friend.”
Once a young mother is accepted at Grace House, she will undergo intake and assessment, case management, counseling services, education, biblical studies, and personal development to ensure future success. The program is one year, and while that may seem long, it covers five phases of development to ensure these ladies and their children will experience a healthy transition. “During each phase, they have markers they have to hit, and they are allowed additional privileges,” Whitney explains. “Phase 1 begins with an orientation and a blackout time where the mother is given time to focus on herself and heal. They have been hustling, trying to make ends meet, trying to make life happen, struggling to keep their head above water, with most of them drowning. During
this blackout month, they are disconnected from the world they have been impacted by, and we let them know this is a season to focus on you.”
Phase 2 focuses on inner healing and creating stability. Phase 3 begins with creating a life plan, discussing aspirations, and putting a plan to those dreams. Phase 4 focuses on personal growth, education, and beginning a career. This is when the women will experience some freedom and get out of the house more. The final phase includes transition plans for independent living. “Recently, we just opened a graduate house, so when the women graduate our one-year program, they transition to a rent house to continue with our support while they are on their path to success but have a little more independence,” Whitney says. The ladies are even gifted a car when they graduate from Grace House to have reliable transportation to and from work or school.
Volunteer Coordinator Stephanie Moreland explained the transition period for these women: “Within each social and economic class, there are hidden rules. Schools and businesses typically operate with middleclass values and expectations. In order to be successful in these environments, you must learn the hidden rules of the middle class. This takes years of one-on-one mentorship. Our goal is to break the cycle of generational poverty by giving families the knowledge and resources they need to succeed.”
Grace House also has an incredible counseling team that works with the ladies two days a week through group therapy and individual therapy. “Most of our ladies have dealt with a lot of trauma in their past. Our program focuses on healing and working through their trauma. We give them the resources that they need to stop and change,” Stephanie says. “I am passionate about this program because my mom made that choice. She stopped the family’s trajectory from spiraling down; she worked so hard. That is what we want to do for these women.”
Life skills are also taught at Grace House, including scheduling doctor’s appointments, driving lessons, budgeting lessons, addressing envelopes, writing a resume, and applying for a job. “We want to show our ladies another world they have not experienced but are deserving of,” Whitney adds.
Collect. Donate. Serve. It is how you can help Grace House!
It is important to note that Grace House does not simply ask the community for monetary donations; they also give back. Partnering with businesses in Texarkana, diapers are collected, and then the home picks a location and gives diapers to the community for free. This has become a way for the home to give back to the community and for the ladies in the home to see the importance of serving others through outreach.
“Everything we do is community-funded,
a light on
which is how Grace House survives. We have four fundraisers per year and our monthly donors. Our most immediate event is Giving Tuesday on December 3, 2024. Other events include our Gala coming up on March 14, 2025, the 5K Run for Her, and the Golf for Grace House tournament in October 2025. Donating monthly or supporting any of our four events helps support our mission,” Whitney says.
Grace House needs volunteers and is a great place to serve. “We need in-home volunteers, help transporting mothers to appointments or work, help with childcare, or maybe even teaching a skill that you have to the ladies. You can volunteer on your schedule. I notify our group of volunteers when a childcare or transportation need arises, and if you are available, you can claim it.” Stephanie says. “Another big need comes in the form of physical health. The ladies really want to work out, so if we have any personal trainers willing to donate their time and teach them how to eat healthily and work out, it would be greatly appreciated.”
“A big part of Grace House is loving the moms in the hotels you see on Stateline. Texarkana is the
second largest corridor in Texas for sex trafficking, and unfortunately, there are a lot of moms living in these hotels and well over 40 children. We will bring sanitary items, provide a hot meal, love on the families, and bring toys for the children. We just want to bring a light to the darkness.”
With Christmas around the corner, Grace House will be collecting toys for children living in our local hotels. “We are asking for unwrapped gifts to be brought to Salty Boutique (236 Richmond Ranch Road, Texarkana, TX) before December 15th,” Stephanie says.
If you would like to volunteer with Grace House in any way, please contact Stephanie, their Volunteer Coordinator, directly through the Facebook page, Grace House, or email her at stephanie@gracehousetxk.org. If you know someone who could benefit from Grace House’s services, please send an email to Stephanie for an application.
Giving gifts is so much more fun when you share something you love! Check out a few of our favorite things as you mark off your Christmas buying list!
Something Shiny
Jewelry is definitely one of the best Christmas gifts you could opt for. It is unique, memorable, and retains value. Be sure to show love and appreciation to your friends and family with a jewelry Christmas gift this year! Our favorites include:
For The Mover And Shaker
Giving the gift of movement brings life to your loved one. Consider purchasing a year-long membership to our local gyms. Our favorites include:
Something Relaxing
Whether you are shopping for a spouse, a parent, a friend, or even a co-worker, everyone can benefit from a little rest and relaxation. Spa experiences are gender-neutral, making them an ideal gift for both men and women. From stress-relieving massages to rejuvenating skin treatments, there is something for everyone. Our favorites include:
Time in a Bottle Day Spa
For The Fashionista
Unlike generic gifts, clothing can reflect the unique tastes, preferences, and lifestyle of the person you're gifting. Our favorite places to shop for high quality clothes and unique designs are:
Something Gorgeous For The Home
Plants can be a great Christmas gift because they are a thoughtful, long-lasting, and versatile gift that can add beauty to any home. Choose a fruit tree to provide for many generations to come or beautiful hanging baskets.Our favorite place to shop for plants:
twitty NURSERY,
few of our favorite thing
For The Tech Lover
Eventually we all need our phones repaired, the battery replaced, or just want to purchase new accessories. Our favorite place for all phone repairs and accessories is:
Something Delicious
You can never go wrong with gift cards to local restaurants, especially for teens and college kids! Our favorite restaurants include:
Stocking Stuffers
Need a few things to top off the stocking? Find the biggest gifts in a smaller size with these ideas. Our favorite include:
2011 Mall Drive, Suite B | Texarkana, Texas
Designing and customizing beautiful hair and lashes just for you for every holiday occasion this season and after! Wishing you and yours a magical season filled with joy and beautiful memories that will last a lifetime!
Salon services include:
Cuts and customized color for the whole family! Bayalage, fashion colors and highlighting techniques! Hair extensions, hand-wefted, tape ins, I-tips, crown topper extensions. Lash, brow and waxing services.
Are you looking for some fun and exciting ways to create memories and experience holiday joy this month? Look no further than our wonderful Texarkana – we have many activities to experience!
December 2
The CPKC Holiday Train arrives between 4:45-5:15pm at West 4th Street in downtown Texarkana with performers, American Authors and KT Tunstall! The event is free, with CPKC encouraging every attendee to make a monetary or heart-healthy food donation to ease hunger needs in the community.
December 2
It’s time for the 40th Annual Christmas Parade presented by the Patterson Troike Foundation. This year’s theme is Christmas through the Decades and a special holiday concert will showcase Sofie and The New Relics. The concert will be held at the Loading Dock Stage and the parade route will include Broad Street, Texas Blvd, and West 4th Street.
December 6-8
The Community Ballet of Texarkana proudly presents the holiday tradition of the Nutcracker in the Historic Perot Theatre. This show proudly presents local dancers from the community and tells a story filled with cheer, surprise, action, and is filled with beautiful dancers! Purchase your ticket at the Perot Theatre box office or online!
Take a Christmas stroll through festively decorated Downtown Texarkana December 6th-7th! This is a two day event for adults on Friday and events for children and adults on Saturday.
Friday, December 6th
10:00am-5:00pm Shoppes on Broad Open House & Downtown Historical Churches festively decorated, plus special music and refreshments
4:30pm Better Homes Harmony (next to Logan’s / 204 Broad Street)
5:00pm Community Lantern Walk on Broad Street beginning at 204 Broad Street to Front Street Plaza
5:30pm Adult Christmas Caroling at the Front Street Plaza
7:00pm Nutcracker Begins at the Perot Theatre
Saturday, December 7th
10:00am-5:00pm Shoppes on Broad Open House & Downtown Historical Churches festively decorated, plus special music and refreshments
11:30am-12:30pm Baby Stroll beginning at Prodigy Yoga (200 East Broad Street, Texarkana, AR) Ages are infant to four years old. Entry forms are available at Southern Grace, Prodigy Yoga, and Hart’s on Broad.
1:00-1:30 pm Children’s Story Time at The Stained Page (115 Main Street). Miss Nancy will be reading Christmas stories to children 5-10 years old.
1:00pm Patrick McReynolds (211 Broad Street, Texarkana, TX)
1:30pm 4 States Fusion Chorus (217 Broad Street, Texarkana, TX)
2:15pm Children’s Caroling at the Front Street Plaza
4:30pm The Mayos (211 Broad Street, Texarkana, TX)
December 10
Join the Texarkana Regional Chorale at First United Methodist Church in Texarkana, AR, for a fantastic program of glorious music. Selections featured will be by Cohen, Trotta, Bougie, and Rutter.
December 14
Lace up your sneakers for the 2nd annual We Are Washington Jingle Jog 5K Race and Fun Walk at Spring Lake Park! Choose to compete as a race runner for a chance to win medals and prizes or join as a fun walker and enjoy the spirit of the season. Don’t miss out on their costume contest—dress to impress and win the title of Best Dressed Participant!
December 16
Enjoy a wonderful presentation of a Christmas cantata at Northern Hills Baptist Church at 6pm as their choir presents “The First Noel” and celebrate the birthday of a
December 14
Christmas Downtown! Bring your family and experience all the fun from 11am-3pm! This family event will include Christmas Carolers, sweets and cider, a petting zoo and many other activities. Visits to Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus will be from 1-3pm, and there will be a Christmas Pet Parade at 3pm. The parade will end in front of The Gallery at 1894 for a Christmas Carol Sing-a-long.
December 21
Christmas on Main presented by Farmers Bank & Trust! Join the fun at the Perot Theatre filled with vendors, food trucks, crafts, carriage rides, Santa and live music. Three movies are playing this day: Frozen, at 10am, Rise of the Guardians, at 2pm, and White Christmas, at 7pm. Enjoy an iceskating rink from 10am-7pm.
December 25 Merry Christmas!
December 15
Christmas at the Perot like never before, an event sure to get you and your family in the holiday spirit. This year, the Texarkana Symphony Orchestra, Texarkana Youth Symphony Orchestra, Pleasant Grove Curtain Call Productions, the Community Ballet of Texarkana, and soprano, Rachel Copeland will all be featured. Purchase tickets at the Perot Theatre box office or online.
December 25 Happy
oy to the
2024 Texarkana's Top Distinguished Lawyer DAvid James
Miller, James, Miller & Hornsby
Education
• Southern Methodist University School of Law, Juris Doctor, 1975
• Southern Methodist University, B.A., 1972
Licenses and Certifications
• 1975 Texas
• 1975 Arkansas
• Texas
• Arkansas
• U. S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit
• U. S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas
• U. S. District Court for the Western District of Arkansas
Memberships
• Past President of the Texarkana Bar Association
• Member of the Texarkana Independent School District Board of Trustees from 1991 to 1997
• President of the Texarkana Independent School District Board of Trustees from 1994 to 1997
• Lifetime Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation
2024 Texarkana’s
Top
Lawyer
DAvid Glass Glass LAw Firm
Education
• Texas Tech University School of Law Juris Doctor
• University of North Texas Licenses and Certifications
• State Bar of Texas, 2002
• Arkansas Bar Association, 2003
• All State Courts in Texas & Arkansas
• U.S. District Courts, Eastern District of Texas
• U.S. District Courts, Eastern & Western Districts of Arkansas U.S. Court of Appeals, 5th Circuit
• U.S. Court of Appeals, 8th Circuit Memberships
• State Bar of Texas / Arkansas Bar Association
• Fifth Circuit Bar Association
• Northeast Texas Bar Association
• Texarkana Bar Association [Treasurer (2007-2009), Secretary (2020-2021), Vice President (2022-2023), and President (2024)] Awards
• National Order of Barristers Inductee
• “Excellence in Trial Advocacy” Award
• American Jurisprudence Award in Trial Advocacy
• Board of Barristers
• ATLA National Mock Trial TeamRegional Champion and National Finalist ABA National Negotiations Team - Regional and National Finalist 5
2024 Texarkana’s Top Young Lawyer Colton
Langford Langdon Davis, LLP
Education
• Henderson State University –Arkadelphia, AR (2019)
• University of Arkansas School of Law – Fayetteville, AR (2022)
Licenses and Certifications
• State Bar of Arkansas (2023)
• State Bar of Texas (2024)
• U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas (2024) U.S. District Court for the Western District of Arkansas (2024)
Memberships
• State Bar of Texas / Arkansas Bar Association
Awards
• Legal Aid of Arkansas Pro Bono Student Volunteer of the Year Award (2021)
• Highest score in the State of Arkansas for the February 2023 Bar Examination and top 1% of scores nationwide
• Martindale-Hubbell Silver Client Champion Award (2023-2024)
TEXARKANA'S TOP LAWYER WINNERS 2024
TEXARKANA'S TOP DISTINGUISHED LAWYER
WINNER:
David James
Miller, James, Miller & Hornsby
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Jim B. Cranford Jr.
Cranford Law Firm
NOMINEES:
Paul Miller
Cary Patterson
David Potter
TEXARKANA'S TOP LAWYER
WINNER:
David Glass
Glass Law Firm
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Josh Potter
Potter & Marks
NOMINEES:
Mark Burgess
Ralph Burgess
Kyle Davis
Butch Dunbar
Brent Langdon
Eric Marks
Connie Mitchell
Shawn Morgan
Lisa Shoalmire
John K Ross, IV
David Ruff
Louise Tausch
Bob Veon
TEXARKANA'S TOP YOUNG LAWYER
WINNER:
Colton Langford
Langdon & Davis, LLP
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Erin Keil
Keil Law Firm, PLLC
NOMINEES:
Felicia Cienfuegos
Cade Mayo
ADMINISTRATIVE/REGULATORY LAW
WINNER:
Jacob Potter
Potter & Marks
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Fred Norton
Norton & Wood
NOMINEES:
Darby Doan
Mark Elliot
Bruce Flint
Matthew Golden
Cary Rochelle
Josh Potter
APPELLATE PRACTICE
WINNER:
Troy Hornsby
Miller, James, Miller, & Hornsby LLP
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Ralph Burgess
Burgess Law Firm
NOMINEES:
Peter Corcroan
Darby Doan
John Delk
Josh Potter
BANKING AND FINANCE LAW
WINNER:
Fred Norton
Norton & Wood
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Kyle Davis
Langdon Davis LLP
NOMINEES:
Eric Marks
Nick Newton
BANKRUPTCY AND CREDITOR DEBTOR
RIGHTS/INSOLVENCY AND REORGANIZATION LAW
WINNER:
David Ruff
Law Office of David Ruff
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
David James
Miller, James, Miller, & Hornsby LLP
NOMINEES:
Kyle Davis
Eric Marks
Nick Newton
Jacob Potter
BUSINESS ORGANIZATION
WINNER:
Peter Corcoran
The Corcoran Law Firm
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Jacob Potter
Potter & Marks
NOMINEES:
Kyle Davis
Ben King
Eric Marks
Nick Newton
COMMERCIAL LITIGATION
WINNER:
Bob Veon
Veon Law Firm, PA
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Peter Corcoran
The Corcoran Law Firm
NOMINEES:
Darren Anderson
John Mark Burgess
Mark Burgess
David Carter
Felicia Cienfuegos
Kyle Davis
Darby doan
Butch Dunbar
Brent Langdon
Eric Marks
CORPORATE LAW
WINNER:
Kyle Davis
Langdon Davis LLP
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Jacob Potter
Potter & Marks
NOMINEES:
Amy Bowers
Jennifer Doan
Butch Dunbar
Cory Floyd
Troy Hornsby
Wes Jordan
Eric Marks
Nick Newton
CRIMINAL DEFENSE NON WHITE COLLAR
WINNER:
Jason Horton
Jason Horton Law
FIRST
Josh Potter
Potter & Marks
NOMINEES:
John Delk
John Pickett
CRIMINAL DEFENSE WHITE COLLAR
WINNER:
FIRST
NOMINEES:
Darren
John Delk
Mark Elliott
Eric Marks
DUI/DWI DEFENSE
WINNER:
Marks FIRST
NOMINEES:
Mark Elliot
Jeff Harrelson
ELDER LAW
WINNER:
Lisa Shoalmire
Ross & Shoalmire PLLC
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Ben King
Ross & Shoalmire PLLC
NOMINEES:
Jon Beck
Mark Elliott
Cade Mayo
John Ross, IV
EMPLOYMENT LAW
WINNER:
Louise Tausch
Atchley, Russell, Waldrop & Hlavinka
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
David Glass
The Glass Firm PLLC
NOMINEES:
David Carter
Mark Elliott
Marshall Wood
FAMILY LAW
WINNER:
David Glass
The Glass Firm PLLC
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Peter Corcoran
The Corcoran Law Firm
NOMINEES:
Carly Anderson
John Delk
Mark Elliot
Brent Langdon
Eric Marks
Cade Mayo
Shawn Morgan
HEALTH CARE LAW
WINNER:
David Carter
Mercy Carter LLP
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
David Glass
The Glass Firm PLLC
NOMINEES:
Eric Marks
Paul Miller
INSURANCE LAW
WINNER:
Mark Burgess Burgess Law Firm
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Eric Marks
Potter & Marks
NOMINEES:
John Mark Burgess
Bruce Flint
Brent Langdon
Matthew Soyars
Bob Veon
Marshall Wood
LABOR LAW
WINNER:
David Glass
The Glass Firm PLLC
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Marshall Woods
Norton & Wood
'TIS THE SEASON FOR
GRATITUDE
Thank you to everyone who voted Jason Horton as Texarkana's TOP CRIMINAL LAWYER HAPPY
HOLIDAYS
from all of us at Jason Horton Law
MEDIATION
WINNER:
James B. Cranford, Jr.
Cranford Law Firm
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
David James
Miller, James, Miller, & Hornsby LLP
NOMINEES:
Ralph Burgess
MEDICAL MALPRACTICE –DEFENDANTS
WINNER:
Paul Miller
Miller, James, Miller, & Hornsby LLP
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Eric Marks
Potter & Marks
NOMINEES:
David Carter
Jennifer Doan
Marshall Wood
MEDICAL MALPRACTICE
WINNER:
David Glass
The Glass Firm PLLC
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Eric Marks
Potter & Marks
NOMINEES:
Mark Burgess
Ralph Burgess
David Carter
Matthew Golden
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Marshall Wood
Norton & Wood
NOMINEES:
Kyle Davis
Brent Langdon
Eric Marks
PERSONAL INJURY - PLAINTIFFS
WINNER:
Monty Murry
Murry Law Office
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Mark Burgess
Burgess Law Firm PLLC
NOMINEES:
Darren Anderson
John Mark Burgess
David Carter
Brandon Cogburn
Bruce Flint
Matthew Golden
Brent Langdon
Eric Marks
Josh Potter
– PLAINTIFFS
PRODUCT LIABILITY – DEFENDANTS
WINNER:
Paul Miller
Miller James Miller & Hornsby LLP
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Bod Veon
Veon Law Firm, PA
NOMINEES:
Darby Doan
Eric Marks
Fred Norton
Marshall Wood
PERSONAL INJURY – DEFENDANTS
WINNER:
Josh Potter
Potter & Marks
PRODUCT LIABILITY – PLAINTIFFS
WINNER:
Eric Marks
Potter & Marks
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Brent Langdon
Langdon Davis LLP
NOMINEES:
Mark burgess
Darby Doan
Jennifer Doan
Matthew Golden
Matthew Soyers
WINNER:
Jacob Potter
Potter & Marks
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
David Glass
The Glass Firm PLLC
NOMINEES:
Felicia Cienfuegos
Kyle Davis
Mark Elliot
Phillip Jordan
Cade Mayo
WINNER:
John K. Ross, IV
Ross & Shoalmire PLLC
FIRST
Fred Norton
Norton & Wood
Nick Newton
WINONIA GRIFFIN ROBERTS
TRUSTS AND ESTATES
WINNER:
Peter Corcoran
The Corcoran Law Firm
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
John K. Ross, IV
Ross & Shoalmire PLLC
NOMINEES:
Jacob Potter
Karlton Kemp
Mark Elliott
Cade Mayo
Lisa B. Shoalmire
Fred Norton
WORKERS COMP – CLAIMANTS
WINNER:
Greg Giles
Moore, Giles & Matteson LLP
FIRST RUNNER - UP:
Fred Norton
Norton & Wood
NOMINEES:
Mike Unger
WORKERS COMP – EMPLOYERS
WINNER:
Fred Norton
Norton & Wood
FIRST
Gregg Giles
Moore, Giles & Matteson LLP
NOMINEES:
Jeff Elliott
THE PSYCHOLOGICAL SIDE OF SPENDING YOUR RETIREMENT SAVINGS
RETIREMENT & LONGEVITY
Many investors worry about outliving their savings. As a result, they sometimes underestimate what they can comfortably spend in retirement.
For years, you’ve been saving and investing for retirement.
But what happens when you finally retire and it’s time to switch gears from saving to spending?
It turns out, many people are so focused on accumulating assets that they never really think about actually withdrawing the money. In fact, recent studies show that many retirees aren’t drawing down their retirement portfolios, opting instead to live on Social Security and the minimum required distributions (aka RMDs) so their portfolios can continue to grow. This may lead to unnecessary sacrifices in a retiree’s standard of living. After almost two decades in retirement, most current retirees still have 80% of their pre-retirement savings, according to research from BlackRock.
The problem with uncertainty
So why aren’t these retirees spending their nest eggs? Some may be spending as little as possible to leave behind a larger sum for their loved ones or philanthropic pursuits. But in many cases, it’s because they aren’t sure how to determine a sustainable withdrawal rate that accounts for their total lifespan. They worry about the “what ifs” retirement may throw their way and want to be prepared. You may be able to relate.
This latter group understands that over the course of a long-term retirement, inflation can erode savings. Portfolio returns can vary, and healthcare costs can quickly escalate. And they may be concerned about outliving their savings – only 25% of baby boomers believe their savings will last throughout retirement, according to the Insured Retirement Institute. By spending less and allowing their savings to potentially grow in the early years of retirement, they hope to offset some of the uncertainty.
Collaborating with your financial advisor can help increase your confidence about having enough money to live comfortably in retirement. Just like in your working years, you can establish a just-in-case cash cushion or line of credit that helps put you at ease. And having a sound distribution strategy in place – one that takes into account your income sources, lifestyle, asset locations and tax situation – can help you enjoy the retirement lifestyle you envisioned.
Withdrawing your money
When it comes to withdrawing your retirement savings, here are a few things to consider:
Organize your expenses: Three typical categories include essential expenses
(think food, housing and insurance), lifestyle expenses (vacations, hobbies) and unexpected expenses (healthcare costs, auto repairs). Consider paying for your essential expenses with guaranteed income sources such as Social Security or annuities. Use growth or income investments to pay for lifestyle expenses, and maintain a cash reserve for any unexpected costs that might occur.
Be flexible. For instance, a downturn in the market is a good time to tighten the reins on your spending. But if you experience some unexpected investment gains, the timing might be right for that dream vacation.
There’s little doubt your income needs will fluctuate during retirement. The early years may be filled with travel and other big-ticket items that require more substantial withdrawals. As time goes on, you’ll likely travel less, but your healthcare expenses may increase. Studies show that spending tends to decline in the later years of retirement, most likely the result of less travel and similar pursuits. People ages 55 to 64 spend on average $60,076 per year, while people ages 65 and over spend $45,221, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Building in flexibility allows you to go with the flow. Just be sure to regularly touch base with your advisor so your budget can stay on track.
Review your plan. Work with your advisor to develop and review your retirement income and distribution strategies. You can run hypothetical simulations based on different withdrawal rates, how many years you will live in retirement or any other contingencies, which will allow you to develop a better idea of how much you can comfortably and confidently spend in retirement to help achieve your goals.
Everyone’s retirement situation is different. You may have encountered some unexpected circumstances, such as a layoff or forced retirement that occurred earlier than you planned, and you weren’t able to save as much as you hoped. On the other hand, leaving a legacy may be your
primary goal. Whatever the case may be, establishing a withdrawal strategy that’s right for you – while also keeping your emotions in check – is often a good plan of action.
SIPC, are subsidiaries of Raymond James Financial, Inc. Raymond James® and Raymond James Financial® are registered trademarks of Raymond James Financial, Inc.
Tasty Donuts
Suzie TK SnippeTS
By: Suzie Tyler
The Memories of Christmas Past
I just celebrated my 82nd trip around the sun. Oops, my dyslexia typed that in error. It should read 28!
Birthdays bring new aches and pains from A to Z, and I’m getting close to the end of the alphabet. But I have been blessed. I could use a new body, but thank God I still have my Arkansas driver’s license!
We will celebrate the birth of Jesus in a few weeks. When I was a child, time crawled. I thought Christmas would never arrive. Now, time is no longer slow and speeds up every day. It seems like Christmas 2023 was just a few weeks ago.
I love the happiness in children’s eyes when they discover each gift on Christmas morning. Those memories are heartwarming, but your children grow up and begin their own families. Then it’s your grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s time! What joy!
Some celebrate by opening gifts on Christmas Eve, while others do the Christmas morning tradition. We always included Odis reading the Christmas story from the Bible in Matthew on Christmas morning before opening gifts. I have a lot of memories of South Texas Christmases with Diane when we ran the air conditioner on Christmas Day. Moving to Arkansas brought cold weather, ice, and snow with Diane, Karmyn, and my inherited sons.
Today, Christmas has become so commercialized that sometimes the real meaning of Christmas gets pushed to the back of the celebrations! I remember going to the Holy Land during Christmas 1970-71. We went to Bethlehem and visited the place of the nativity. There was an area that was thought to be the place of Jesus’ birth, with lighted candles. For me, the most disappointing thing was a glassed-in area believed to be the place where Jesus was laid as a baby, with a modern-dressed doll inside. Somehow, it lost its meaning for me. I was expecting a manger scene with a doll dressed in swaddling clothes.
If we are not careful, we will get caught up in the season’s hustle and bustle and leave the Christ Child out of the celebration! Jesus is the reason for the season!
When I think about Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations, I know a New Year is just around the corner! We just started 2024, and it will soon be 2025.
With a new year approaching, we need to return Jesus to Christmas more than ever. Spend time with family, forget about diets, enjoy the food, and thank Him for our blessings. Take pictures and make memories!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, 2025. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and my Amazon Author Page.
TAX TIP
This year, the Texas State Legislature is requiring ALL appraisal districts in the state to start a program in which they verify residential homesteads. The legislature doesn’t give any guidance as to how it will be conducted, and of course, it will cost the taxpayers lots of money.
Here in Bowie County, the district is working on getting new homestead applications filled out by as many people as possible in the “over 65” category while people are in the office paying taxes. Next year, the district will be working on “General Homesteads.”
If you live in Texas and are near the office at 122 Plaza West, please stop by and file for a new one. Each application filed in the office
is one less that will need to be mailed. If you don’t file for a new Homestead, you risk losing the homestead for the year you didn’t refile. It takes about five minutes to do. All you do is sign the form and provide a copy of your driver’s license.
I would encourage everyone to take care of this as soon as possible, or if you receive one in the mail, please return it as quickly as possible.
Bill
903-748-3186
NOW LEASING
AVAILABLE NOW, Newly built gorgeous townhomes. Take your pick of a three bedroom, two full baths, one half bath unit or two bedroom, two full baths, one half bath unit. LOCATED AT 3445-3475 BROOKE PLACE TEXARKANA TX (Pleasant Grove ISD), at the end of a cul-de-sac, off Richmond Road. Each unit features stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, open floor concept, breakfast bar, laundry room, vinyl plank flooring throughout, and attached one car garage. Pets welcome 35lbs or less. Walk to Ironwood for Happy Hour and a nice dinner, or Amigo Juan’s for a Margarita! Only 5 minutes to Christus St. Michael Hospital & 12 minutes to Wadley Regional Medical Center, Only 5 minutes to Texas A&M Texarkana Campus & 8 minutes to Texarkana College.
