December 2012 . Vol. 6, Issue 11
Greg and Sarah Schwartz Photo By Kendal Dockery
There’s no need for mistletoe this Christmas...
(903)735-2336
Monday-Saturday 10-6
www.micahsjewelers.com
2812 Richmond Rd. Richmond Park Center Texarkana TX, 75503
www.ledwellmachinery.com
910 East Loop Drive 903.838.6531
December 2012 /contents
24 Miracle mom...
The miracle of life visited this family recently... God’s hand was on their lives all the way.
F E AT U R E S
EVENTS
12
The Shotgun Miracle
36
Health Grades Christus
16 The Mystery and the Miracle
44
Te x a r k a n a E n d o d o n t i c s Open House
33 Sweethearts
46 Halloween Party at Northridge
39
50 Reagan Dinner and Silent Auction
Get off the Sidelines and Into the Game!
EVERY MONTH 6
Editor ’s Letter
56
Financial Focus
54
F i s h Ta l e s
20
F u r r y Ta l e s
91
Real Estate
58
Resource Guide
88
Second Chances
70 Uncorked
D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 2 / Vo l . 6 , I s s u e 1 2
Publisher and Editor / Debbie Brower Associate Editors / Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson Photography / Image Forward Photography, Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson, Rozana Page, Alamond Photography
51
Witches of Nash
52
Shoes for Souls
72
Te x a r k a n a U n l e a s h e d
74
Free Shred Event
76
H a n d s O n Te x a r k a n a
78
Te e n C o u r t o f Te x a r k a n a
Feature Writers / Jane Bouterse, Anne Fruge
79
Thanksgiving Feast
80
Te x a r k a n a B o o t s & S a d d l e
Contributing Writers / Christine Amos, Mike Brower, Vincent Senatore, Dustin Stringer
84
Komen Pasta Party
Advisor / Mike Brower
Sales & Marketing Manager / Charlie McMurphy Graphic Artist / Rozana Page
C U LT U R E
If you have an event you would like to include in our Upcoming Events section, please email us at: info@alt-mag.com.
90 Calendar of Events
w w w. a l t - m a g . c o m
info@alt-mag.com 200 Heather Dr., Texarkana, TX 75501 (903) 334-9605
Miracle Hunter...
ALT Magazine is published the 1st business day of every month. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission of ALT Magazine is strictly prohibited. ALT Magazine is distributed free of charge. Direct mail subscriptions are available for $42.00 per year. Contributions from our readers are welcome. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material.
It could have cost him his life, but God had other plans for him.
©2012 ALT Magazine
12
k / FEATURE STORY
6
ALT Magazine
December 2012
EDITOR’S letter
Dreaming... I’m dreaming of a white Christmas, Just like the ones I used to know, Where the tree tops glisten And children listen To hear sleigh bells in the snow... ~Irving Berlin
We don’t have many white Christmases here in the
my jeans had to be homemade to be long enough, and my
Ark-La-Tex. In fact, I haven’t had many my entire life. I can’t
hair was short and curly -- but I had my family, my health,
remember a time when snow blanketed my lawn on Christmas
my intelligence -- and everything I needed and most things I
Day. There have been a few instances where there were small wanted. snow flurries, but no real snow. I still hope for that white stuff
every year.
as important now. It’s funny how when we are young, there
are so many things that are awful and when we grow up, we
Christmas is the time of year to relish all of those
What seemed so important then doesn’t quite seem
memories -- whether it is white snow, 104 degree fevers or
realize we are thankful for just those things. (Although I still
having lots of family around to feed until you wanted to pop! I
like the long, straight hair! HAHA!)
absolutely love the holiday season -- starting with Halloween
and ending at the New Year! It brings back such great
our blessings, and our families. In this month’s ALT, you
memories. I can smell different things and it will remind me of
will find stories of “miracles.” In fact, when planning for this
times in the past.
issue, all of the staff started calling this our “Miracle Edition.”
Sometimes we are so busy with the holiday season that we
Every Christmas, my favorite DVD comes to the
What a wonderful time to be thankful for our health,
forefront of the collection. White Christmas has got to be my
forget that God graces us with miracles every day.
all-time favorite movie! The singing, dancing, love story -- and,
of course, popping canned preserves, bring on memories of
and the health of those I love, is miracle enough. Others have
wonderful Christmases through the years.
experienced miracles beyond anything we can imagine.
Looking through my old photo albums, I can still
To me, just waking up each day, having my health
I am so glad that God blessed me with so many things.
remember the smells and emotions of so many Christmases
I hope you enjoy reading this month’s ALT. These stories have
throughout my life. I remember how I longed to have long,
blessed my life, and I know they will bless you.
straight hair as a child. Oftentimes I would pin a long, straight
scarf to the back of my head to be able to “feel” like I had a
New Year!
long pony-tail. I also longed to have a short, fat foot, like my
May you have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy And may God bless you!
sister’s! And while I’m at it, I longed to be about 3 inches shorter overall! Now, I realize, that God made me just like he wanted me. Yes, I only received one pair of expensive shoes to my sister’s two pairs of less expensive shoes, and 8
ALT Magazine
December 2012
Publisher/Editor
DINE-IN OR CARRY-OUT
Bone-In Wings Boneless Wings Boneless Strips
MILD ORIGINAL HOT
Gliders
ATOMIC
CAJUN
HICKORY SMOKED BBQ HAWAIIAN
TERIYAKI
GARLIC PARMESAN LEMON PEPPER
Wings Ma de Fresh to Order, Never Pre-Cooke d!
Open 7 days a week 11am ‘til Midnight™
LOUISIANA RUB 903.255.0090
2700 Richmond RoadSuite 14A1
903.792.WING(9464) On the corner of N.State Line and Texas Blvd
Call the Wing Experts! Or Order On-Line at www.wingstop.com
When is Christmas…Really? A history or literary buff will know the controversy that revolves around the “actual” date of the Christmas celebration. The confusion about an “actual” date seems to originate in mythology and move into historical events without clear dates, like the birth of the Christ Child. I ask you, “What does it matter—the “actual” date of Christmas?” Maybe this is a defensive question, as my daughter accuses me of being “calendar challenged.” Calendars don’t mean much to me anymore, as they only remind me of how quickly the years are rolling by. Therefore, I propose we think not about the date but about the celebration it encourages— whether in December or July. Christmas is about love and caring and sharing and taking the time to appreciate the precious gifts with which we have all—yes, ALL—been blessed, beginning with life itself. I hope your life has been blessed with children, as they so assist in seeing our beautiful world—the mystery of a spider web’s architecture, the beauty of a sunset, the appearance of the moon even during the day, the color of the leaves, the softness of a butterfly’s wing or their smiles and open arms of greeting. Children and Christmas have a lot in common because they remind us of the Mystery and the Miracle of our lives. We need to remember, regardless of our busyness. Celebrating Christmas at a certain time--December 25--is a gift because it forces us to celebrate what we too often tend to neglect or forget. I have Christmas decorations in every room of my house throughout the year because I want to be reminded that the spirit of Christmas should be a part of every day. Our feature stories reinforce that idea. One occurred during the Christmas season, another, July. Regardless of the date, they are punctuated by the spirit of humanity and miracle so a part of the Christmas season. What is the “actual date” of Christmas? I hope you will allow these stories to show you the “actual date” for celebrating and living the spirit of Christmas is Every Day.
Jane Bouterse
12
ALT Magazine
December 2012
by Jane Bouterse
The Shotgun Miracle
Christmas 2011. The air had that certain cool crispness that announces the arrival of the East Texas Christmas season. Vari-colored Christmas lights punctuated the mercury and neon brightness of Atlanta, Texas’, city streets and decorated businesses. People “hustled and bustled,” juggling over-filled bags and oddly-shaped boxes sporting big bows as shoppers made their way from cars to shops and back again. To all eyes, the unique Christmas season had arrived with a familiar “usualness.”
Members of Atlanta’s Kirby McCord Family breathed their respective sighs of relief as they concluded their school activities. Primary Principal Kirby, Special Programs Director Dena, sons Garrison, 15, and Cooper, 9, and “adopted” daughter McCall Norton now had the time they needed to finish their last-minute Christmas preparations. For the McCords Christmas had always been a time to celebrate their faith and family. They anticipated this Christmas 2011 would be as predictable and
treasured as their previous Christmases. They had no hint nor suspicion--not even an inkling--of how wrong they would be. Christmas Day, December 25, 2011, came and went. The carols were sung; the heavily laden tables relieved by the feasting. The McCord’s colorfully decorated Christmas tree, once protecting a bountiful collection of gifts now covered only a bare space beneath its branches. With all the packages opened, the time had come to put their contents to
good use. Garrison McCord’s gift was the most noticeable, as it marked an important rite of passage for the 15 year old high school freshman. The new 12 gauge shotgun complimented the skills Garrison, a hunter and fisherman, had developed over his lifetime. He was the consummate sportsman who excelled not only in the out of doors but on athletic venues as well. He proved himself a worthy opponent whether playing football, baseball, basketball or December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
13
L-R: Garrison outside at Dallas Children’s Hospital; Garrison and Joel Henrico during a physical therapy session; x-ray of Garrison’s leg - dots are bb’s still in leg; Garrison and Dr. Derderian (plastic surgeon); Garrison and Dr. Alkire; Praying with friends at football game.
running track. “Sports” was his middle name, and he was good. Garrison could hardly wait to test his new firearm, so a few days after Christmas he had joined friends for a teal hunt, and they succeeded. “It was the best hunt we had had all year,” Garrison explains, “and I got to use my new gun.” That hunt just teased the hunters, however, so on December 30, Garrison, his friend Nick Bergt and Nick’s dad, Chris, went to Malden Boat Ramp on Lake Wright Patman. They were looking for larger ducks. The hunters arrived before daylight at their hole (a spot near the water’s edge protected from wind and visibility). They set up their decoys. Garrison and Nick were within 30
14
ALT Magazine
December 2012
yards of each other, so they could see and talk while they waited for the ducks. Garrison was shooting his new 12 gauge; Nick, his 20 gauge. Shortly after settling into their spots, the boys heard Chris shoot from his position in nearby bushes. “Hey, I shot this duck,“ Nick’s dad shouted. “Pick it up for me.” Garrison maintained his seat on a nearby log while Nick got up to retrieve the duck. He laid down his gun. The safety was not on, and a twig caught the trigger. A shot fired. “I knew what had happened as soon as it happened,“ Garrison remembers. “I started yelling. Nick didn’t know what had happened.” Both boys had on waders. The hole in Garrison’s waders was small, but
blood was coming out. Immediately, Nick began shouting for his dad who came within two minutes. Chris kept both of the boys calm while he got them into the boat and headed back to the boat ramp. Garrison vividly remembers this boat ride. “I knew I was shot in the leg, and all I could think about was whether I was ever going to be able to play [sports] again. All that stuff began to run through my head.” Garrison lay on the boat’s bottom. When the craft got to land, Garrison knew Chris (170 lbs. and 5’10”) could never carry him (185-190 lbs. and 5’11½”). “I’ll hop,” Garrison had decided. He had no time to hop, however. As he pushed himself up, Chris picked up Garrison and carried him to his nearby truck. The threesome headed to Atlanta Memorial Hospital. “My leg felt like it had exploded,” Garrison recalls. Automatically, he called his dad to tell him what had happened. “Garrison was so calm,” Dad Kirby interjects, “that I asked, ‘Do you think I need to come to the hospital?’” “Yea. You do need to come,” was Garrison’s reply. When the three reached the Emergency Room at Atlanta Memorial Hospital, Dr. Kristi Henderson, a family friend who attended First Baptist Church-Atlanta with the McCords, was on call. Her presence reassured Garrison as he was whisked into a treatment room where the waders had to be cut off. “I remember feeling the bone move when they got to my foot,” Garrison says. “Give me something.” Morphine arrived. A splint was applied to Garrison’s leg while the family waited the two hours before his transfer to a busy Christus St. Michael ER. Thankfully, Garrison slept. A gathering of about 15 people filled the patient-care room into which Garrison was placed upon his arrival at Christus St. Michael. Dr. Chris Alkire, Orthopedic Surgeon, ordered X-rays immediately. While family and friends waited and medical personnel worked with Garrison, the atmosphere was one of cordiality as well as concern. Gunshot wounds were not commonplace but fixable, and Nick’s gun was, after all, a 20 gauge shotgun. Twenty gauge ammunition was much smaller caliber–more like a collection of steel B-Bs—
Everyone Deserves A More Beautiful, Balanced Life...
Our Vision at The Beauty & Wellness Center: The Beauty & Wellness Center exists to provide a place of refuge from life’s storms for our patients and customers- a place set apart that people can turn to for information, knowledge and self-improvement. We believe we can impart to our patients and customers something a lot more important than simply providing a cosmetic service. We want to be a resource for learning about life, health and balance. We believe anyone can breathe air until the end of their days, but that it takes a lot more to lead a balanced life, a beautiful life- a delightful life! We think a balanced life speaks to elements of physical, mental, emotional, relational and spiritual well-being. We believe that people can learn to be givers, instead of takers, and that they can learn to uphold and enhance those around them rather than to make oneself look better by tearing down or criticizing others. As children of God, we believe our behavior and attitude should always reflect joy and thanksgiving. We seek to project an attitude of thankfulness & a behavior that always attempts to lift up rather than tear down.
Med Spa Services
Escape to The Beauty & Wellness Center today...
David Whitten, MD, PhD, FACEP
The Beauty & Wellness Center 5303 Cowhorn Creek Texarkana, TX 75503 www.texasbodysculpting.com
Mini & Specialty Facials Botox & Dermal Fillers Laser Therapy & Skin Re-Surfacing Microdermabrasion Therapeutic Skin Care FREE Skin Consultations Venus FREEZE (Skin Tightening, Wrinkle & Cellulite Reduction *Improves Stretch Mark Areas!) Obagi Medical Skin Care Jan Marini Skin Care Hair Salon Studio
903 . 831 . 5659 903 . 908 . 2885
than the larger 12 gauge shot. Garrison also had on waders which would have provided him some protection, and the hole in the waders was tiny. No one had a sense of the seriousness of the wound. After what seemed an eternity, Dr. Alkire returned to the room. The X-rays had revealed the extent of the wound. “This is bad,” Dr. Alkire had reported. “The first thing I’m going to try to do is save his leg.” Suddenly the room seemed empty of air; and, for the first time…Garrison cried. The gurney carrying Garrison headed toward surgery while a stunned group of caring people remained behind, uncertain of what the outcome would be. What they did learn was that with bone/ wound injuries there were two issues with which to be concerned. First, maintaining the integrity of the bone and muscles and skin while at the same time battling infection. When Garrison returned from surgery, he still had his leg which was equipped with an External Fixator. The Ex–fix extended from his knee to his ankle. The purpose of the Ex-fix is to immobilize bones to allow a fracture to heal. Garrison’s journey had begun. [ Documentation of that journey can be found on his facebook page “Praying for Garrison McCord”]. During the first week following his accident, Garrison had three surgeries at Christus St. Michael. The purpose of these surgeries was to clean the wound and set his leg. Since there was no muscle left to cover
the bone and there is no plastic surgeon in Texarkana who does that type of surgery, it was time for a move. Garrison left Christus St. Michael the beneficiary of Dr. Alkire’s significant skills and his prayers. The now aging fifteen year old was transferred to Dallas Children’s Hospital where Dr. Christopher Derderian, a specialist dedicated “to the care of pediatric patients with complex reconstructive and craniofacial problems” awaited his arrival. After examining Garrison’s leg, the DCH medical team agreed that the physician who had done Garrison’s orthopedics in Texarkana had done a perfect job. The surgeries resumed. Three weeks in Dallas, three surgeries scheduled: a muscle flap (6 hours); skin graft scheduled but a noticeable redness required the attention of the infectious disease team. Ten days later the team gave the go-ahead for the requisite skin graft. Ten days after the skin graft, Garrison came home. Throughout his stay at Dallas Children’s Hospital Garrison was buoyed by people, some of whom he knew; others, strangers. Atlanta’s students began a daily prayer vigil for Garrison and his family-around the flagpole at Atlanta Middle School and in the classrooms at Atlanta High School. “Pray for Garrison” signs began to appear in yards throughout Atlanta, and Garrison bracelets were worn as links in a chain of community caring. Visitors from home kept his room busy. “As long as people were there,“ his dad explains, “Garrison was
happy. A T-shirt sported Garrison’s consistent explanation, “God’s got this.” Cooper, Garrison’s nine year old brother, even made friends during his visits to the hospital. For example, he found he could be good company for Tristan, a Longview boy bitten by a dog. During the long absences of either his mother or father, Cooper spent lots of time with his special friend, Kade Hill, who was an important part of maintaining some stability in Cooper’s life. Four-wheeler rides and just getting outside at his grandparents’ home also provided some quality time for him. “I just like getting out and about, to be where people are,” Cooper says. “I’m just glad everyone’s back home.” “Back home” for Garrison was better than the hospital, but he still faced problems he had never imagined. The size of doors, for example, frequently hindered his entry. “One night I just picked up the walker and slammed it to the floor,” Garrison admits. Showers were a real challenge, since the Ex-fix could not get wet and no weight could be put on his injured leg. Most nights Garrison found the family’s leather couch more accommodating than the bed, since keeping his leg elevated was easier. “The pain is constant,” Garrison admits, “but the nerve damage is supposed to get better after a year.” Garrison’s attitude is remarkable (as his parents note). He laughs as he explains that there are 96 steel shots still in his leg, although they are gradually working their way out. “I got a friend’s metal detector the other
903.277.2191
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! LICENSED & BONDED
The best in care... when you can’t be there. Owners
Karen Schmidt . Katheryn Norwood
Specializing in Home or Hospital Sitting for Adults and Child Care
16
ALT Magazine
December 2012
day and ran it up my leg. The metal detector went off.” A sense of humor and dedication to his goal have been sources of strength for Garrison throughout his rugged treatment and rehabilitation. “Whatever they said I couldn’t do, I’ve done,” he observes. “I give God the glory for that.” His rehabilitation has been a genuine challenge. The “tough caring” of Joel Henrico, Physical Therapist at Atlanta Memorial Hospital, has given Garrison an idea of how much he can really endure. Henrico is “amazing,” as he has pulled and stretched and prodded and encouraged his young patient. His tough caring is crucial so that Garrison’s healing Achilles Tendon will remain viable for those scrimmages, diamonds, courts and tracks so important to him. A probable bone graft was avoided, and the much anticipated healing of the Ex-fix invasion sites finally began. Garrison’s seventh surgery was the removal of the Ex-fix After having been homebound half of his second semester, Garrison returned to school in March 2012 encased in a cast extending to his thigh. An excited and
Tune In to Classic Hits or Classic Country! 18
ALT Magazine
December 2012
protective Garrison was welcomed back by his classmates who were surprised by his after lunch appearance. Their enthusiasm appeared to be good medicine, as he moved quickly to a shorter cast, then a walking boot. The weight bearing seemed to speed up his healing while the continuing prayers and friendship proved good medicine, too. It was spring, so Garrison went to baseball games and traveled with the team. His skills as a pitcher (right-hander), third or first baseman will be available next spring. This fall he has returned as a starter to the Atlanta High School’s Junior Varsity football team. “I’ll be back to where I was,” Garrison declares. “It’s all about trusting God and hard work. Slowly but surely I’m getting better and stronger. I’m not running fast (I wasn’t a fast runner anyway), but my footwork is getting better.” During every game, Garrison wraps an old knee pad around his leg from mid-calf to his ankle. “I’m just glad we have something to wrap,” a tearful and smiling dad hastily adds. After every game his leg receives a good soaking.
Garrison still goes hunting, too. “When I tell my school friends I am going teal hunting,” he observes, “they always advise me ‘Don’t get shot.’” “Don’t get shot” good advice which the entire McCord Family understands. Dena, Kirby, Cooper and McCall have been by his side since his initial trip to Atlanta’s Memorial Hospital. Their clarified perspective: Garrison’s devotion to sports is “not who he is, but what he does”—has provided them reassuring understanding. “Everything happens for a reason,” they acknowledge. “You have to trust God and have faith.” Together they have learned the healing power of human touch and the kindness of strangers. “I think every parent should visit Dallas Children’s Hospital,” Dena observes, “to help them keep their lives in perspective—unbelievable stories there.” A now 10 year old Cooper adds, “You have to spend time with your family. Cherish all the moments.” Dena says, “We now see lots in both of our kids that we never saw before” then adds; “There are some things I want to be able to forget. I remember sitting in the cafeteria with Kirby in Dallas. It was the first time in our adult lives we had no control over anything—not jobs, not actions, not outcome…nothing. We just had to put God in control.” Then miracles do happen. In her book SEASONS OF THE HEART, writer Faith Baldwin has written: What I have learned from the year past is something about miracles— miracles of healing and answered prayer and unexpected happy endings. Each came quietly and simply, on tiptoe, so that I hardly knew it had occurred. All this makes me realize that miracles are everyday things. Not only the sudden, great good fortune, wafting on a new wind from the sky. They are almost routine, yet miracles just the same. Every time something hard becomes easier; every time you adjust to a situation which, last week, you didn’t know existed; every time a kindness falls as softly as the dew; or someone you love who was ill grows better; every time a blessing comes, not with trumpet and fanfare, but silently as night, you have witnessed a miracle. Garrison and his Family understand the meaning of miracles. “Life can change in an instant, “ they affirm, “but God is so faithful.” Their lives have been touched by miracles—doctors and nurses, family and friends, faith and prayer, teachers and strangers, strength and weakness, caring and commitment. There is no doubt in any of their minds that without God none of this miraculous healing would have been possible, and they frequently share their testimonies. Christmas IS the season of miracles when the birth of a baby in a stable reminds us, “silently as night,” of the sustaining miracle—a loving God. The Kirby McCord Family knows and understands.
We at American Realty, would like to take this
903.793.2666 2603 Texas Blvd, Suite 101 www.amreal.com
our warmest holiday wishes to you and yours. It has been our privilege to be a part of this community and help our clients achieve their dreams.
4284 St. Michael Drive
(directly in front of Bed Bath Beyond) Texarkana, TX
Monday through Saturday 10:30am - 8:00pm
Wishing you a Bee-Boppin’ Christmas! ican r e m sic A sness! s a l C iou c i l De
Now Se Hand- rving D Blue Bipped Milks ell hakes !
December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
19
by Christine Amos
T
he holiday season is upon us. Many of you will be traveling to see family and may want to take along your fur kid. If you have never traveled with your pet, there are some things you may want to consider, as well as educate yourself on, before venturing out. The U.S. Department of Transportation estimates more than 2 million pets and other animals are transported by air each year. Pets aren’t allowed on Amtrak trains, Greyhound buses or cruise lines, but they can go on many regional train, bus and boat lines. During the holidays, though, when planes are fuller and lines are longer, some airlines ban pets in cargo -- as well as times when the heat or cold is intense. Certain breeds can never fly on some airlines, including those considered to have bullying characteristics, like pit bulls, and brachiocephalic or snubnosed animals like Shih Tzus, Pugs, English Bulldogs or Persian cats because of potential breathing problems. Most five-star hotels have accommodations and perks for well-behaved pets, and even most discount hotels are pet-friendly. Other hotels have weight limits on animals. Some charge a nightly fee for animals, some have cleaning deposits and some will charge only if there is damage. I have a list of these hotels. Call me if you would like to get additional information 903.278.6575. If you travel by automobile regular stops for potty breaks will be needed. Make certain you are equipped with poop bags. It is illegal to allow your dog to defecate and not 20
ALT Magazine
December 2012
clean up after your dog. These bags can be purchased at almost any place that sells pet supplies. If you opt out on taking your dog along for whatever reason, you may have to check out your local boarding facilities. If you’ve never boarded your fur kid, this can be a difficult choice -- if you make it one. Ask your friends and neighbors for referrals. Talk to your veterinarian. Most veterinarians board pets. The level of care you want your baby to have is a most important decision. If you choose a private source ask to see the facility. Ask to see where your baby will be kept and how he or she will be kept safe. If you live in the Ark-la-tex, this will be an easy one for me! I board pets and also do daycare for them as well. We have a privately fenced yard for them to receive yard time. We have cameras to watch them through the night that we, at Georgia’s, can access at our home. We give all the love we can possibly provide and treat them as good as we do our own! A complimentary bath will be given to pets that stay with us a minimum of 3 days. We do have a limited number of spaces in order to provide and devote all the attention they deserve in your absence. Whether it is Georgia’s Pet Salon & Boutique or any other place, keep in mind your baby will need certain things. Please make sure you take THEIR food for them as your caregiver may not feed what you feed them at home. Change in diet can lead to illness and no one wants that. I like to ask that a favorite toy be brought. As odd as this sounds……I sometimes ask that the day you
bring your baby to me that you dry off after your shower with an old towel that you can spare. If you bring that towel it will have YOUR scent on it and sometimes comforts your pet in your absence. Some facilities provide bowls, some do not. Ask your caregiver if you need to provide that for your baby. Current vaccinations are a must. If you do travel with your pet, they are required for travel. Have a current copy on hand. Happy traveling and Merry Christmas to all! Editor’s Note: Please come visit Christine at her new shop, Georgia’s Pet Salon and Boutique, open now at 101 Slaton Drive, Nash, Texas! If you are interested in having your pet loved by ONLY THE BEST, this is the place to go! Georgia’s is now offering boarding! Call Christine for an appointment at 903.278.6575. See you there!
Christine Amos has over 30 years experience grooming pets and an owner of Georgia’s Pet Salon. She is a Certified Groomer, Master Groomer, AKC Canine Good Citizenship Evaluator, and Obedience Trainer. She is also Mom to Georgia (pictured), MoMo, and Annabelle!
1939 Moores Ln. Texarkana, TX 75503
Dr. Clayton A. Frenzel
Board Certified, Diplomate: American Board of Surgery
Call for a One-on-One Consultation!
Dual Fellowship Trained Surgeon Specializing in Bariatric and Cosmetic Plastic Surgery
855.DocAtoZ (855.362.2869)
Amazing Transformations...
Before
Before Lost 113 lbs
Lost 160 lbs
I was 27 years old when I made the decision to have weight loss surgery, and trust me, it wasn’t easy. I was scared. The diets and exercise routines had failed, and I felt like I had failed myself and my family. As I took stock of my life, I realized that all I did was worry about my weight. I was trapped, miserable and growing more and more bitter about my situation. I chose to have Lap Band surgery in June of 2008. I lost 113 pounds and found the “me” I always knew was there. I am happy and healthy, but mostly importantly I’m FREE! Bring on the football games, airplane seats, dancing and LIFE! I’m living it now and couldn’t be happier.
Lap-Band
Gastric Sleeve
Gastric Bypass
10 years ago I was 305 pounds and miserable. I knew I needed to lose weight for my health and for my future! I had gastric bypass surgery in June 2002 and would do it all over again in a heartbeat! I am healthy and happy to be able to do things that were only a wish 10 years ago. I still remember all the struggles of being obese, sweating trying to put on a pair of pantyhose, having to pull my seatbelt out all the way to buckle it, not being comfortable in movie theatre seats to just name a few. It makes me SO very thankful for the life I am able to live today thanks to my gastric bypass surgery.
Bariatric Revisional Procedures
www.MyCompleteTransformation.com
Cosmetic Plastic Procedures
www.AdvancedCosmeticSurg.com
LocaLLy owned • designers on staff • coMMUnity driVen 2315 richmond road suite 16, texarkana, tX 75503 • 903.223.4506 w w w. f o U r s tat e s f U r n i t U r e . c o M
Mention this ad for a FREE GIFT! see store for details.
24
ALT Magazine
December 2012
by Jane Bouterse Photography by Alamond Photography
&T M
The Mystery
he
iracle
He lay in his baby carrier placed near his father’s feet. His sturdy legs whipped the air as his tiny hands seemed to reach for something only he could identify. Slightly pink and chubby cheeks dominated his round face, and his large eyes seemed to survey his surroundings. His birth weight of 8 lbs. 9 oz. (the same as his almost eight year old brother) and 21 ½ inches of length had expanded to a healthy 17 lbs and 24 inches during his first four months. “He” is Jackson Smith, son of Charles and Hayley Smith of Redwater, TX—the place they now call home.
The circumstances surrounding Jackson’s birth on July 12, 2012, remain both a MYSTERY and a MIRACLE for an alert medical team as well as Jackson’s caring family and community. Although the arrival of any newborn permanently changes the family he is joining, Jackson’s entrance wreaked unprecedented havoc and happiness. An explanation is in order. Jackson’s story actually begins at Applebee’s in Texarkana in 2003. While working at the restaurant, Hayley, from Redwater, met Charles, from Nash, and they decided to set up their own household. They were together for almost two years when they were married on a Friday. On the Saturday following their wedding, their son Austin was born. Now with family responsibilities to consider, Charles and Hayley began a migratory journey trying to find the best home for their family. Their homemaking attempts included some 20 moves. “Searching for the perfect place involved several thousand dollars,” Charles explains, “before we returned to Texarkana to spend a year with Hayley’s dad. I guess we’re just like Dorothy in THE WIZARD OF OZ: it took us a while to discover, ‘There’s no place like home.’” When Hayley’s adopted mom, Debbie James, decided to downsize her home and yard, the Charles Smith Family,
now composed of mom and dad, son, Austin, and Hayley’s 14 year old daughter, Carson Law, moved into Hayley’s childhood home in Redwater—complete with memories. Now their children would attend Redwater schools, and there would be plenty of room for everyone. By May 2010 the Smith Family had settled—at last—but settlement was not to last long when they discovered a new baby was on the way. Hayley was due in July 2012; however, one week before term her hands and feet began to swell painfully, so her OBGYN, Dr. Jay (Dr. Sudheer Jayaprabhu) decided to break her water to induce the baby’s arrival. Hayley was not surprised by this course of action, since Austin had also been induced. By 8 p.m. on the evening of July 11 Carson and her mom arrived at Christus St. Michael Labor and Delivery for admittance. By the time Charles, chaperoning Austin at a pitching machine league game, arrived it is 9:30, and Hayley has already been induced. Charles walks into the hospital delivery room at the end of a long day. Because of a job call from Shreveport, he has snatched only three hours sleep in the last two days, so he is exhausted. He walks into a room with an almost celebratory air. Hayley and Carson are exercising their
expertise at being clowns while they wait. Hayley’s adoptive and biological moms are both present. “Everybody is right where they need to be,” Charles reports, so he feels relieved at the opportunity he now has to lean back in the hospital room’s chair and catch a few winks before the action begins. Dr. Jay arrives shortly thereafter; examines Hayley; pronounces everything fine. She is dilated to about a 2. “Yea, It’s time,” he says, and he breaks her water, then leaves the room. When Courtney, the Labor and Delivery nurse enters the room to check her, Hayley complains of shortness of breath. Courtney: Breathe in through the mouth, out through the nose. It is becoming increasingly evident from her labored breathing, Hayley is in trouble. Courtney: Retrieves an oxygen mask for Hayley. Charles: Hayley is making these awful last breath sounds. Courtney: Drops the mask and runs from the room to hit the code button—ahead of the prescribed action. December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
25
Everyone waiting in the room moves out into the hall.
Barbara (Hayley’s biological mom and an RN): Picks up the mask. She notices that Hayley has developed this blank stare, as though she is looking right through her mom. Everything stops.
Carson: Debbie begins to hyperventilate and faints. Carson catches her as she falls. All eyes stare toward the double doors at the end of the hall.
Carson: When her mom had started the hard breathing, Carson ran out of the room, crying. She then ran back into the room and shut herself in the bathroom.
Carson: They are out there for a really, really long time. Charles: Just slides down the wall and sinks to the floor.
The door opens, and the crash cart comes into the room. Carson, hiding in the bathroom, is listening to all the crash cart directions. Courtney: Hits the code button and begins screaming for Dr. Jay. Charles is still in the room: “What do I do?” Hayley: Suddenly her left arm draws up into a seizure. The crash cart personnel work feverishly. Someone orders everyone out of the room and into a small waiting room down the hallway. Charles: “CRAZY! We can’t wait here.”
Nurses are “running and scrambling.” Suddenly the double doors open, and Barbara runs through; Carson barely makes the gap. The problem is that they cannot find Hayley. Later they learn that Hayley has been taken to the Operating Room so that Jackson (the baby) can be taken. A window of seven minutes from the time the mother stops breathing is all the time available to remove a baby from the mother. The seizure Charles saw started the clock. Out in the hallway—no one blinks. Suddenly a cart shoots through the double doors. Those waiting think that its baby load is Jackson but later
learn that it is not. Meanwhile, in the OR, an anesthesiologist, surgeon, trauma team—four people are pumping Hayley’s heart while Dr. Jay and Courtney work to get Jackson “born.” A team from the Christus St. Michael Neo-natal ICU is standing-by to receive the newborn. Once Jackson has been successfully removed, the work on Hayley continues, but she is not responsive for 35 minutes. She has flat-lined in the delivery room. Courtney: Behind every mask, there is not a dry eye. From the doctors: I don’t know if we’re doing this girl any favors. Courtney: Revive her? What have we done? The medical team worked hard to get Hayley back but questioned their efforts. The problem with which they were dealing was AFE or Amniotic Fluid Embolism, also, with Hayley Amniotic Pulmonary Embolism which threw her into cardiac arrest. The cause of AFE remains a MYSTERY, but some few things are known, others suspected. What is known is that the problem begins with the amniotic
Texarkana Gastroenterology Consultants and The Endoscopy center of Texarkana Wishing You A Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!
Stanley C. Knowles, M.D. John C. Cozart, M.D. Laura Balmain, M.D. James J. Boehmke, D.O.
903.792.8030
Texarkana Gastroenterology Consultants 1920 Moores Lane . Texarkana, TX 75503
26
ALT Magazine
December 2012
903.791.8657
The Endoscopy Center of Texarkana www.Tgastro.com
ALL DESIGNS © LAGOS
AD-CROCKERS-2012__LAGOS-7-88x5.indd 1
3117 Kennedy Lane crockersjewelers.com
• Texarkana • 903.832.8686
December 2012
27 www.alt-mag.com 11/14/2012 5:16:47 PM
fluid, “the clear, slightly yellowish liquid that surrounds the unborn baby (fetus) during pregnancy in the amniotic sac. The amniotic fluid helps the baby to move so that bones and lungs develop properly, maintains constant temperature and protects the baby from sudden blows or movements.” According to CRITICAL CARE NURSE, August 2004: “AFE is a rare obstetric emergency in which it is postulated that amniotic fluid, fetal cells, hair, or other debris enter the maternal circulation, causing cardiorespiratory collapse.” Exactly what causes this to happen? A MYSTERY… “Although the first case of AFE was reported in 1817 and remains the leading cause of death during labor and the first few postpartum hours, it remains a deadly and unpreventable obstetric emergency…. Despite technological advances in critical care life support, the maternal mortality rate for AFE remains around 61%.” Survivors often experience continued neurological damage. “The fetal mortality rate,…is a dismal 21% and 50% of the survivors continue to experience neurological damage.” “The reported incidence of AFE
varies widely because of the obscurity of the problem and the wide range of signs and symptoms associated with it…. Recent research indicates AFE occurs in 1 of every 20,646 deliveries”—a significant difference from the long guesstimated 80,000 deliveries with 80% deaths among AFE victims. “The initial principles of dealing with obstetric emergencies are the same as for any emergency: airway, breathing, and circulation. The major difference in this situation is the need to care for two patients,” In Hayley’s case, all her organs bled out, so that she eventually heard 28-35 units of blood were required to put blood back.
She was transferred to ICU where she had an IV in her neck through which blood was pumped directly into her heart. For seven days she was on a respirator in critical condition. Even after ICU she continued to receive blood because of problems getting her blood to clot. During her stay in ICU, Charles and Carson were the first to see Hayley, but nothing could have prepared them for her body so swollen they wondered how her skin could expand. “Not even an hour prior to that,” Charles still in awe explains, “she looked normal. How could her body transform so quickly?” When the Doctor explained what had happened, he speculated that when her membrane was ruptured, something got into Hayley’s bloodstream, went directly to her heart (thus the pulmonary involvement) and shot to the lungs. According to her medical team and researchers, there is nothing to do to prepare for such emergencies, and prayer offers the greatest possibility for a mother and baby’s recovery. (Visit www.afesupport. org for better understanding.) Enter MIRACLE. Hayley survived thanks to the intervention and attention of a trained medical team, timing and teamwork, and the doctors say…God. Her days in
Modern Vibe
Sinatra-Style Jazz Big Band with a
The Vintage 15 is a 15-piece swing big band who puts a fresh, new twist on the classic jazz standards of Frank Sinatra, Michael Bublé, Ella Fitzgerald, and many more. We can also provide ceremony music, smooth jazz combos for dinner or cocktail hour, DJ services, on-stage lighting, and MC services.
www.vintage15.com thevintage15@gmail.com
Don’t Miss The Vintage 15 in Texarkana at the 2013 Phantom Ball! January 12, 2013 - Northridge Country Club 28
ALT Magazine
December 2012
The
10th Annual
HANTOM ALL Featuring Big Band Music by: January 12, 2013
Northridge Country Club Sinatra-Style Jazz Big Band with a Modern Vibe
In 1952, Dr. S. A. Collom and a gathering of Texarkana citizens founded the “Texarkana Crippled Children Society” in response to the polio epidemic which was sweeping across our nation. Since that time, the Temple Center, an Easter Seals affiliate, has evolved and expanded into a premier facility providing physical, occupational and speech therapy for children and adults with disabilities. On Saturday, January 12, 2013, the Temple Center will be celebrating the tenth annual Phantom Ball at Northridge Country Club. This is an annual gala event benefiting the client services of Temple Memorial Rehabilitation Center. This year’s Phantom Ball will honor a very special person from our community as the “Phantom”. The criterion for “Phantom” is one who gives generously of their time and financial support to the Temple Center and the community of Texarkana. As in the spirit of “Phantom”, the identity of this year’s honoree will not be revealed at this time, in order to build suspense and intrigue for our event.
For more information or tickets please call Anita Carver at 903-794-2705. Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are available. Silent auction item donations are appreciated. Cocktail attire (cocktail dresses and suits), black tie optional (ballgowns and formal attire). Masks and fans are encouraged.
Temple Memorial Rehabilitation Center 903-794-2705 1315 Walnut Street, Texarkana, TX www.east-texas.easterseals.com
ICU began her journey to her medically MIRACULOUS recovery. Thanks to her physical therapy, she has learned to walk again and abandoned her walker early. She was given her cell phone, but her disabled right hand prevented her using it. That hand has now restored itself. The pain and numbness she, and the doctors, speculate will repair itself in at least a year. Until then, she manages. Hayley has experienced a short term memory loss. She has no memory, for example, of Charles reporting Austin’s ballgame nor even of the nightmare in the hospital when Jackson was born. Her hope is that with the reduction of her meds, her memory will improve. Doctors In the Neo-natal unit told Charles that Jackson would be given no food for four or five days. First, his little body had to deal with the adrenaline which shocked all his organs and kicked his system into high gear. Jackson failed to consider the medical clock—he was eating in one day. “He is such a MIRACLE baby!” his whole family declares. Once they began to feed him, “he hasn’t stopped,” his doting mom adds. There are other consequences for Hayley, too. No more pregnancies—Ever! No surgery for at least four or five years. The MYSTERY of her right foot persists, however. No doctors nor tests seem able to identify the cause of her persistent and excruciating pain which has severely restricted both her mobility and endurance, but no one— least of all Hayley— is complaining. Right
now, everyone—including the Redwater community--is gratefully coping. Thanks to the caretaking of friends and the Internet’s Meal Train, the family has been provided ample food for weeks. Others have served as errand runners, delivery persons, baby sitters and drivers. The community has provided invaluable support and continues to be available to lend a hand. Basically, Hayley was without life for at least 35 minutes. The strength and persistence of the medical team attending her was her heart. Why did this happen to Hayley after two previously successful deliveries? For what reasons have she and Jackson been spared? The answers remain both a MYSTERY and a MIRACLE, but the lives of the Charles Smith Family have been permanently changed. Carson: “I don’t take my mother for granted anymore. I have learned not to waste time. Things are really different around the house. I am closer to my parents now. I think the whole thing happened for a reason. It made everyone stop and think. At the hospital, we were all together.” Charles: “We don’t take any days for granted. Everybody pushed aside personal feelings and came together for the good of Hayley and Jackson. Lots of gaps closed. Everyone realized how precious life is. We were all brought closer to God.” Hayley: “I am still amazed. This changed more lives than ours. We can’t go into a doctor’s office without someone knowing who we are. There are struggles, of
With approved credit
30
ALT Magazine
December 2012
course. It’s traumatizing after going through this, but I feel like I can do anything. “When you hear of bad things, you think, ‘That can’t happen to me.’ Some people want to shelter their pregnant loved ones from any knowledge of AFE. I say, ‘Why would you do that?’ Get educated. Ask questions. Don’t make everything I have gone through be in vain. “I was really lonely at first. Every foot doctor I have been to cannot understand how a labor injury has affected my foot. Eventually I discovered the AFE Foundation and Support group which includes people from all over the world. (www.afesupport. com) It is a blessing to talk to women or family survivors from everywhere. Some of their stories are shocking. No two deliveries are the same.” Hayley, Charles, Carson, Austin and, eventually, Jackson understand the promise of love and caring—the MIRACLE of which the Christmas season reminds us all. For them MYSTERY and MIRACLE are not just words but experiences they have lived, and their lives will NEVER be the same. “We didn’t realize what we had!” They all agree. The MIRACLE of Christmas urges us to pause, to take inventory, to look Up and to be grateful for the love and caring symbolized by the gift wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. God cares for us—Each and Every One.
by Anne Fruge
Lindsey Gore, a junior at Texas High School, knows exactly what she wants to do when she grows up. After her mother suffered from a sudden, hemorrhagic stroke last year, Lindsey realized that she wanted to pursue a medical career and raise awareness in her community about staying healthy and active. Therefore, when her academic advisor at the school suggested she join the Sweethearts program through the American Heart Association, which focuses on promoting a heart-healthy lifestyle, Lindsey knew it would be a good fit because of her drive to share a message that affected her so personally. Lindsey applied for one of the
thirteen positions for girls in the community, and received a sponsorship to cover her membership fees. Grateful for the opportunity, Lindsey has gone above and beyond her required service hours in order to spread the message. Though not without trepidation, Lindsey has stood in front of adults at area rotary clubs, Texas High and Nash Elementary to teach them how to recognize a stroke and aid anyone who may be in danger of having one. “I want to spread the word to the people in our community that to prevent strokes and heart disease they need to go to their annual checkups, check their blood pressure and cholesterol, stick to a low
sodium diet, stop smoking and get frequent exercise, especially cardio,” Lindsey says. “I want to tell everyone to take care of themselves and their health because it’s not just affecting you…it’s affecting your family.” On top of a rigorous academic schedule and extra-curricular activities, Lindsey and the other 12 girls spend a lot of time giving back to the community. The other Sweethearts are Emily Andrews, Abrie Morton, Marissa Johnston, Taylor Hall, Regan Arnold, Sarah Hacker, Kailey Carr, Madison Dudley, Tiffani Smith, Katy Wyly, Megan McCorkle and Caroline Byrd. “Hot Springs has had a Sweetheart program for six years,” Brenda Dudley, December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
33
Corporate Market Director for The American Heart Association in Texarkana says. “I was so impressed by the girls there and what they were learning that I wanted to bring this great program to the students in our area.” With the help of Advanced Cardiology and their sponsorship, the program now includes 13 girls from 5 area high schools. “My goal for the program was for the Sweethearts to get experience volunteering and giving back to the community,” Brenda says. “I wanted them to learn about a hearthealthy life-style. Hopefully the girls will stay healthy and reduce their risk of heart disease. Plus the rewards that come with giving back will be a part of their life from now on.” This year the girls have volunteered at Wadley Regional Medical Center, learned CPR and how to use an AED, completed a cath lab tour with Dr. Scott Black, trained with Life Net and continued their education on fitness and healthy eating. They also volunteered at the Heart Walk where the girls set up carnival games for children. “All the Sweethearts knew we would get to help out in great ways, but the first time we actually were able to see how we made a difference was at the Heart Walk,” Lindsey says. “My favorite part came when it was time to pack up. There was one
34
ALT Magazine
December 2012
boy who wanted to keep playing, so we let him, and after his family called for him to go, he turned to run back, and I noticed that his shirt said ‘survivor’ on it. Knowing that he was able to enjoy the games made the sweat and sunburn worth it.” While training and volunteering
at Wadley, the girls rolled courtesy carts, delivered baby and pediatric blankets, discharged patients, and helped file x-rays. Lindsey was scheduled to work on radiology and filed “huge” x-ray files in the basement on the first day. She was only scheduled to work for one day, but was “hooked” after the first day.
“I loved having a backstage pass to the doctors and techs passing by and talking about cases,” Lindsey says. “I also ended up having my own Radiology family. I loved the people that I worked with and my role there. I ended up volunteering 100 hours and received the Outstanding Service Award and the Most Courteous Award. On the last day that I volunteered, I fought back tears.” In the cath lab, the girls were able to see the inside OF a control room where patients were checked for heart blockages. They were also able to watch procedures. “After each procedure I watched, Dr. Black would come explain what was being done and take the time to explain the x-rays,” Lindsey says. “This meant the world to me because I know he had paperwork, stress tests and other cases to get to. Mr. Mike Asher allowed me to watch a pacemaker being put in and then gave me the box it came in as a souvenir. I now have my Wadley badge, my 100 hour pin and my CPR certification in there for safe keeping.” Lindsey’s time at the hospital reminded her of the days she had spent outside the ICU waiting to see her mother. In fact, many of her experiences with Sweethearts have helped bring the horrific year of her mother’s stroke full circle. “One of my favorite memories from this past year was when I convinced
my mother and her friend to participate in the Heart Walk,” Lindsey says. “Seeing her finish brought tears to my eyes because a few months ago, she was just taking one or two steps at a time with a walker and gait belt.” In January, all the girls will be presented by their fathers at the 2013 Heart Ball. Though the program will be over, many of the girls want to keep volunteering in the community and are now hoping to pursue a career in the medical field. “Volunteering is humbling,” Lindsey says. “I think the most important thing that I learned is that no matter where you are on the totem pole, whether you are a doctor, volunteer, receptionist, nurse, or maintenance, you can make a difference in a patient’s day by just doing the smallest act of kindness.” Editor’s Note: ALT learned about the Sweetheart Program recently when the essay shown on the right was sent to us -- and we were impressed! What an absolutely amazing program to help young people give back to our community! These young women prove that volunteering gives the volunteer a joy that can’t be matched!
Reflections on Sweehearts...
“I could see how this would be really neat for you,” my academic advisor said after she handed me the Sweetheart application. I looked it over. This was my golden ticket. Since October, when my mother suffered a hemorrhagic stroke, I had been searching for some way to give back; and what better way than through the American Heart Association? At the 2012 Heart Ball, I kind of got the feel of what I was a part of. We knew we would get to help out in great ways, but the first time we actually made a difference was at the Heart Walk. Seeing all the heart disease survivors was moving. I even convinced my mother and her friend to walk it while my boyfriend and I ran. Seeing her finish brought tears to my eyes because a few months ago, she was just taking one or two steps at a time with a walker and gait belt. I quickly dried my tears and tended the games set up by the Sweethearts. My favorite part was when it was time to pack up, there was one boy who wanted to keep playing, so we let him, and after his family called for him to go, he turned to run back, and I noticed that his shirt said survivor on it. Knowing that he was able to enjoy the games made the sweat and sunburn worth it. Next, we went to the Jr. Volunteer orientation to learn more about what we would do when we volunteered. This was right up my alley since I am in love with the medical field! My first day was everything I had hoped for. We delivered baby and pediatric blankets, rolled the courtesy carts twice a day, discharged patients, and helped file x-rays. I always hopped up to do the courtesy cart first because I enjoyed seeing the people’s faces light up after a long day of waiting. It also reminded me of when I had to wait hours in ICU to see Mom for thirty minutes at the scheduled times. For my six hours of Sweetheart volunteering, I was scheduled in Radiology. I remember Ms. Shelly, the receptionist, introducing me as “help for the summer,” and I thought to myself, “I’m only scheduled for one day.” Little did I know that that day would get me hooked. I moved these HUGE x-ray files to the basement, which left me sore the next day, and filed x-rays in the computer. The part that hooked me was how I got a backstage pass to doctors and techs passing by, talking about cases, and seeing x-rays. In the end, I had my own
by Lindsey Gore
little Radiology family. On the last day that I volunteered, I actually fought back tears. I loved them and my role there. Ms. Dezi and Shelly presented me with a sweet recommendation letter, which was a nice surprise. I ended up volunteering exactly 100 hours and received the Outstanding Service and the Most Courteous award. Even though Outstanding Service was really the “higher” title, I value Most Courteous more because I believe anyone can serve, but not everyone really connects and enjoys it. We played a little game while passing out awards where the coordinator would make us guess who got what. Everyone guessed me for the courteous award, which flattered me. I also found out that I missed out on having the most hours by 8; however, the girl who beat me volunteered a month longer. From my overall volunteer experience, I think the most important thing I learned is that no matter where you are on the totem pole, whether you are a doctor, volunteer, receptionist, nurse, or maintenance, you can make a difference in a patient’s day by just doing the littlest act of kindness. One of the most difficult things I did with Sweethearts was the CPR certification in June. I was so thrilled we were able to do that because it is so important for anyone to know CPR and how to use an AED. It is literally life and death! I can use that instruction for the rest of my life. The Sweethearts toured the Cath Lab in July. It was real neat to see inside the control room! It wasn’t until I later shadowed Dr. Black that I got to witness a case, though. I was able to watch two labs being done, and my favorite part was I watched a pacemaker get put in. I was able to watch each procedure on the x-ray screens, on an ultrasound monitor, and through the glass window! During the cases, the techs, nurses, and scrubs would explain what they were doing and tell me things to look for. After each procedure I watched, Dr. Black would come explain what he had done and go back and show me the x-rays. That meant the world to me because I know he had paperwork, stress tests and other cases to get to. Mr. Asher, the man who showed me the pacemaker, gave me the box it came in as a souvenir. I now have my Wadley badge, my 100 hour pin, and my CPR certification card in there for safe keeping.
December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
35
EVENT
HealthGrades
WHERE
Christus St. Michael
North Conference Center WHEN
36
11/8/12
ALT Magazine
1
2
3
4
December 2012
1. Francine Frances and Board Chair Mary Matthews 2. Carol Hodgson, Patricia Morgan and Cynthia Montgomery 3. Dr. Stan Knowles and George Smaistrla 4. Donna Nicholson, Patricia Morgan, Vickie Hurst, Carol Hodgson 5. Dean Barry and Chris Karam 6. Sandra Bowden, Brenda Musgrove and Kimberly Scott 7. Alana Higgins and Renay Turner 8. Lesa Stone, Glen Boles, Nancy Keenan, Andre Storey and Fred Brantley 9. Angie Miller, Jodi Williams, Christy Mills, Ann Agan, Novella Medlock 10. Courtney Shoalmire and Traci Gatlin 11. Chris Karam addresses the crowd 12. & 13. Misc. Photo 14. Chris Karam greeting a few people
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
For Texarkana’s Most Pampered Pets...
info@georgiaspetsalon.com www.georgiaspetsalon.com Full-Range of Grooming Services Boutique Barkery
FREE professional pet portrait WITH FIRST GROOM!
Now
g
in room
G
& S OG
D
! S AT
C
Josh Mitchell of Texarkana, TX is a Graduate of Florida Institute of Animal Arts. Josh has Graduated from the National Cat Groomers Institute of America, and is one of three Certified Master Cat Groomers in the state of TX. Stocking- Stuffers For The “Nicest” Pets!
When Only The
Now Open!
Best
Will Do...
101 Slaton Dr., Nash, TX
903.278.6575
38
ALT Magazine
December 2012
by Anne Fruge
Get off the
Sidelines And into the
Game!
Allen and Shelby Brown have always been avid football fans. Through the years they have cheered for the Razorbacks and their three sons, Matt, Jared and Peyton, in their sports endeavors with pride. Therefore, it only made sense to center their co-chaired United Way Campaign around a concept that was already a part of their lives. “Get off the sidelines and into the game” is what the Browns are urging the Texarkana Community to do as a team. “When you drive around town, I hope you see the ‘Live United’ signs,” Shelby Brown says. “We hope it’s a reminder to everyone that it’s not about the stateline, Arkansas or Texas, it’s about our community and helping those in need.”
When Shelby and Allen were approached and asked to chair this year’s campaign, at first they wondered if they would have enough time. Allen is the President and CEO of MilWay Federal Credit Union. Shelby is the Director of Marketing at Wadley Regional Medical Center, where she has worked since 1989. She is in charge of community relations, advertising, marketing and health fairs. However, once their friends started telling them about United Way and how it benefits this community, Shelby and Allen decided to make time in their busy schedules for a cause they are now urging everyone to join. “Sometimes I think people hear about United Way, but don’t really know
what it is or how it helps Texarkana,” Shelby says. “Our goal this year is to spread the word about this great organization that gives aid to so many wonderful programs that are vital to this community.” When a person gives to United Way, they are actually helping over 43 programs at 19 agencies in Texarkana. Ninety-nine cents of every dollar donated is used locally to benefit programs in health, education and financial stability. “United Way helps people from all walks of life,” Shelby says. “It touches so many lives every day. United Way is an easy way to give one amount and yet assist so many in our community. Not only that, last year for every dollar December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
39
collected, $2.95 was acquired through matching funds, so what seems like a little donation can grow exponentially.” Shelby and Allen, as co-chairs, were asked to find volunteers for the various committees that United Way employs to enforce its strong accountability. The allocations committee will receive applications for funds, grant money and then each quarter, they visit the programs to ensure funds are being used as intended. “Accountability is very important
to the United Way,” Shelby says. “This committee puts in hours of time pouring over applications and then visiting sites. However, when they come back, they are filled with stories about how these funds are changing people’s lives.” Temple Memorial Rehabilitation Center is just one of the many agencies that receive funding from United Way. Through these grants they are able to provide therapy to children that might otherwise “fall through the cracks” because they have lost their insurance or Medicaid benefits.
& s a m t s i r h C Merry ! r a e Y w e Happy N
Thorough evaluations for the most appropriate care Fast, effective pain relief
40
ALT Magazine
December 2012
“One of our kids routinely loses his Medicaid coverage if there ever happens to be three pay periods in a month for his dad,” Sandy Varner, Executive Director for Temple Memorial says. “When this happens, we continue to see him even though we receive no payment. Consistency is very important for his type of therapy, and it’s important that we maintain his routine. The United Way covers such a broad base of people and you know that the money you give is going to a good cause simply because of the standards United
Dr. Jason M. Michel, DDS . Certified Endodontist 903.793.7411 or toll-free: 888.287.7555 www.texarkanaendo.com
Experienced, compassionate staff Specialized methods for gentle care & minimal discomfort Mild sedation available
State-of-the-art knowledge, techniques & equipment Thousands of successful cases & satisfied patients
For information on advertising in Texarkana’s Premiere Magazine, Call
Charlie McMurphy! 903.908.5797
903.223.0217 Distinctive Apartment Homes
fo on n i r o f l l a C ates and R d e r e w o L cials! e p S n i e v Mo 217 903.223.0
5911 Richmond Road
Texarkana, Tx 75503
www.legacy-pleasantgrove.com December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
41
Way places on the recipient agencies.” Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), Texarkana Children’s Advocacy Center and Family Matters are programs that give advocacy and support to abused and neglected children in this area. The United Way provides funding for direct services to children in these three programs and because of this, approximately 1200 children who desperately need help are provided for each year. “United Way is a unique opportunity to give to a wide array of charitable services in Texarkana,” Danita Abernathy, Executive Director of CASA says. “Without United Way funding, Texarkana would be struggling to take care of its own.” Some of the other 43 programs that benefit from this campaign are Harvest Texarkana, Opportunities Inc., Randy Sam’s Outreach Center, Salvation Army, Running WJ Ranch, Texarkana Friendship Center, Caddo Council Boy Scouts, Girls Scouts of AR-TXOK, Literacy Council of Miller and Bowie Counties, Texarkana Resources for the Disabled, TRAHC Art Smart,
Texarkana Symphony Orchestra, and Domestic Violence Prevention, Inc. “We didn’t set an exact goal for the campaign this year; we just want to raise as much as we can,” Shelby says. “All of these programs are vital to the Texarkana community. We have organizations with programs that are helping those who need it, and they need resources in order to continue to improve lives.” The campaign welcomes any donation, big or small, toward the more than $1 million worth of need in this area. Even if a person cannot donate very much, the Browns encourage everyone to spread awareness and add “Live United” to their marquee, hang a sign in their store or send an email to family and friends. “It’s hard to imagine that there are people in our community without a car, a home or food to eat,” Shelby says. “It’s even harder to imagine that there are people around us every day who don’t have the basic necessities that we sometimes take for granted. Allen and I both believe that when you are blessed with resources that you are called to give back to those less fortunate. Join us and ‘get off the sidelines and into the game!’”
WANT TO HELP?
42
ALT Magazine
December 2012
Make your holiday
WISHES COME TRUE
Sterling silver charms from $25
3117 Kennedy Ln. • Texarkana, TX 75503 903.832.8686 • www.crockersjewelers.com
Free Gift with Purchase • For the Month of December Receive a PANDORA holiday ornament (a $30 US retail value) with your purchase of $125 or more of PANDORA jewelry.* *Good while supplies last, limit one per customer. See our store for details.
Need Extra Cash For The Holidays? Cash In While Precious Metals Are At An All-Time High! We buy gold, silver, platinum and diamonds in any condition... AND We pay more than those other places! Rely on a well established family business when selling your treasures! Come in today for a FREE evaluation!
3117 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 75503
903.832-8686 crockersjewelers.com
December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
43
EVENT
Open House
Texarkana Endodontics WHERE
WHEN
11/1/12
1
2
4
3
5
1. Dr. Michael and Sharon Ward 2. Dr. James and Emilee Kitchens 3. Dr. Robin and Lynn Daniel 4. Savannah, Samantha and Dr. Jason Michel 5. Stacy Buffington, Kerri Coleman, Lacey Whitehead, Debbie Spinks, Jamie Wilder, Kristi Wright and Jessica Barth 6. Vickie Teer and Britney Pulliam 7. Sharon Ward and Jordan Miller 8. Ashley Eason, Dr. Michael Ward, Karen Greer and Dr. Todd Thigpen 9. Dr. Chris Potts and Dr. Andrew Curry 10. Dr. Brian Barry, Tina Reed, Dr. Joseph James, Patricia Smith and Dr. Ashley McDonald 11. Karen Greer, Jordan Miller, Ashley Eason, Patricia Smith, Katie Crabtree, Angela Coffee and Chris Saunders 12. Whitney Humphrey and Bobbi Phillips 13. Katie Crabtree, Patricia Smith, Tina Reed, Samantha Michel and Jordan Miller 14. Emilee Kitchens, Mary Collin Marracino, Katie Crabtree, Patricia Smith, Tina Reed and Samantha Michel 15. Sheri and Dr. David Steel, Dr. Michael Ward, David Vammen, Nora and Dr. Steven Pratt
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
903.792.0056 4059 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, Texas
Merry &
Bright
44
ALT Magazine
December 2012
EVENT WHERE WHEN
Halloween Party Northridge C.C.
1. James Rochelle, Luann Cate, Elaine Lindsey and Howard Morris 2. Tamera Chafin, Sheryl Lee, Carrie Pickering and Inja Brown 3. Roger and Debbie Sheppard 4. Ann Coley and Jerry Still
10/27/12
5. Heather and Jay Barnette 6. Cheney and Mindi Pruett 7. John and Kara Humphrey 8. Michael “Jimi” Hendrix and Dawna Rogers 9. Bobby and Bethany Cox
1
2
10. Jamye and Jeff DeHaan 11. Allen and Darla Clement 12. Leslie Jones and Jayme DeHaan 13. Stacey Sewell and Kenneth Sewell 14. Lisa Childress, Tammy Harvey, Cathy Bassett Reeves and Cindy Whitehead Davis and Paul Whitt 15. Stacey Sewell and Monica Robinson
46
16. Candace Hambleton & Caroline Saldino
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
ALT Magazine
December 2012
17. Lori Ledford and Erin Duke
Fabulous StockingStuffers!
18. Kyle DeLaughter and Jillian Taylor 19. Kaytlan Hargrove and Nick Landeth 20. Kim and Randy Swanson
903.792.0088 4012 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, Texas
21. Brant and Terri Smith 22. Trenton Robison and Hannah Spradlin 23. Misc. Halloween Decor Photo 24. Stacee Burson and Tom Withem 25. Jennifer Futrell, Debbie Jones, Sandra Preddy, Deborah and Lane Mason 26. Clay and Amy Robinson, Chad Hewett and Suzanne Williamson 27. Starr and Ed Thompson, Jennifer and Jamie Farmer 28. Dr. Paul Whitt, Lisa Childress, Meko Radomski, Dr. Sean Womack and Randall Lee 29. Kim and Randy Swanson, Brant and Terri Smith 30. Bobby and Bethany Cox, Tyler and Tamra Dunlap,
All The Latest Looks & Something New For Christmas & New Year’s Eve!
John and Kara Humphrey, Cheney and Mindi Pruett 31. Tyler and Tamra Dunlap 3000 New Boston Road
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
y On Sto p B K BL AC ! Fr i d a y
Texarkana, TX
December 2012
903.838.6500
www.alt-mag.com
47
Celebrate Christmas Dinner at Table That Seats the Whole Family!
Something for Every Member of the Family! 48
ALT Magazine
December 2012
Come and stroll through our show-room and see why Oak Creek is the place to get your next furniture set! Beautiful, handcrafted bedroom sets in all sizes, including cribs, are available, or ask us to create a custom set just for you! Oak Creek Furniture offers custom options to help our customers acheive the exact look they have been dreaming of!
Stop By Oak Creek Furniture Today and Discover Everything We Have to Offer! Why is Oak Creek Furniture Different?
Almost perfect... Six days a week, Oak Creek Furniture craftsmen make some of the most beautiful handmade furniture known to man. And seven days a week, they struggle to refrain from unseemly pride, which isn’t easy when you’re constantly raising the bar.
We have chosen Amish furniture craftsmen who are recognized leaders in the solid wood furniture industry. Amish furniture is made by hand in small Amish wood shops so every piece of furniture receives the same attention to detail. Our Amish handcrafted furniture is built to last.
Our Promise...
Warranty...
We work very hard to keep our overhead very low and therefore we are able to offer you the very best prices found anywhere, EVEN THE INTERNET!! If you do find a better price just bring us proof and we will either meet or beat it if possible!
All of our standard sized heirloom furniture comes with a manufacturers limited lifetime warranty against any defects in materials and workmanship. If anything should happen to your furniture we can carry it back to the very craftsman who made it and have it repaired to as good as new!
With beautiful works of art painstakingly shaped from select kiln-dried woods, gently finished in a three-step sanding process and carefully sealed with a varnish that’s practically impervious to water, nail polish remover and alcohol. NEVER will you find a piece of particle board or fiber board on any of our fine furniture.
With a huge selection of items for everyone in your family, you will want to spend hours looking! Check out our new toy selections, including train sets, rockers, and dolls. Our electronic fireplaces, give you the ambiance of a real fireplace! Handmade baskets and candy selections make great gifts for everyone! And for the gun enthusiast, this beautiful bookcase, with hidden gun rack, is perfect! You have to see it to appreciate it! Come on by today!
December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
49
EVENT Reagan
Dinner & Silent Auction WHERE Silvermoon on Broad WHEN 10/18/12
1. Susannah Morriss Linnett & Daniel Linnett - Republican Candidate for AR House of Representatives 2. Robyn Barnes & Susannah Linnett 3. Wayne Smith - Texarkana, AR Mayor & Daniel Linnett 4. Danny Lewis & his wife Tami Lewis 5. Texarkana Convention & Tourism Bureau Nicholas Vasseghey & Britni Trupl 6. Dianne Pritchett, Keynote Speaker Mr. Curtis Coleman- Chairman, Institute of Constitutional Policy & potential candidate for Governor of Arkansas & Larry Pritchett 7. Chief Justice Josh Morriss & his daughter Susannah Morriss Linnett 8. Jeff Aiken & Larry Burgess- Miller County Judge 9. Keynote Speaker Mr. Curtis Coleman, Chairman-Institute of Constitutional Policy & potential candidate for Governor of Arkansas 10. Chief Justice Josh Morris as George Washington performing “A Standing Miracle”
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
www.ironwoodgrill.com
Rehearsal Dinners Bridal Luncheons Ladies’ Night Out Guy’s Night Out Private Parties
Reserve Our Event Room Today For Your Holiday Parties! 4312 Morris Lane, Texarkana 903-223-4644 50
ALT Magazine
December 2012
EVENT WHERE WHEN
Witches of Halloween Nash, Texas 10/31/12
Back row from left: Elizabeth Lea, Jennifer Studdard and Kelli Harris. Front row from left: Sharon Murphy and Jackie Chestnutt reeze is Venus F uty The Bea Only at er! ess Cent n l l e W &
The Beauty
C h r i stm a s Open House Fri, Dec 7th 10am-5pm Sat, Dec 8th 9am-2pm
Wellness Center
Give The Gift of Venus FREEZE! FREEZE TIME & REVERSE AGING Through Thermal Magnetic Rejuvenation!
What if you could reduce wrinkles, tighten your skin, reduce cellulite & sculpt your body- all without surgery? You CAN with the Venus FREEZE! FDA Approved, Painless, Non-Surgical Body Contouring Cellulite Reduction & Skin Tightening for the Face, Neck and Body.
Other Services Provided by The Beauty & Wellness Center: Surgical: Non-Surgical: Microdermabrasion Ultra High Def Laser Therapy & Skin Re-Surfacing Body Sculpting/Liposuction Mini & Specialty Facials Skin CareSuture Suspension Lifts Consultations Theraputic Skin Care (Face, Breast, Butt) Obagi Medical Skin Care Arbonne Silhouette Lifts Jan Marini Skin Care Botox &Body-Jet Water Assisted Dermal Fillers Hormone Therapy Lipo & Fat Transfer David Whitten, MD, PhD, FACEP 5303 Cowhorn Creek Texarkana, TX 75503 www.texasbodysculpting.com
Weight Control Tattoo Removal Varicose Vein Therapy Venus Freeze
The BWC Hair Studio
903 . 831 . 5659 903 . 908 . 2885 December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
51
Shoes for Souls
EVENT
WHERE WHEN
PaylessShoeSource 10/13/12
Melissa Delk with the Junior League assists two girls in picking out shoes.
We are pleased to introduce Dr. Marcel Thompson and his family to Texarakana. Specializing in: accepting new patients minimally invasive surgery permanent birth control no long waits high risk pregnancy accepts Medicare & Tricare daVinci-Robotic surgery treatments for heavy & abnormal bleeding Sudheer M. Jayaprabhu, M.D. Delivering Care and Rose Parangimalil, MS, FNP Compassion for Women Kenneth W. West, M.D. Marcel Thompson, D.O. of Every Generation M-F 8am-5pm
903.792.1404 52
ALT Magazine
December 2012
1002 Texas Blvd., Suite 200 Texarkana, Texas
thewomensspecialists.org
A group of Junior Leaguers gearing up for the students to arrive.
Sustainer Mendy Warner, President Treva West, and President Elect Traci Barker
Wishing you a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Not pictured: Shawnna Brooks & Emily Thomas
Jessica
Allison
Kathy Carol
KarmaLee
Debbie
Peggy P. Shirley
903.832.6261 M-F: 9am - 6pm; Sat: 9am - 3pm 3703 Mall Drive, Texarkana, TX
Randee 903.748.8697
Lacey
Peggy A. Dayna
Now offering airbrush tanning by Randee & facial services by Donna!
Donna 430.200.7908
And unlike the folks up north, we tend to be ready to a certain extent.
Be Prepared
T
Every time a snow is predicted every grocery store is slammed with people stocking up. In my humble opinion we should be ready all the time and use the by Mike Brower time preceding an event to shore up our stores. Think about the ice storm and all the people lined up to buy a few generators every day because there was no electricity.
he people of New York and New Jersey thought nothing bad would happen and didn’t prepare, even though they were saying for a week that Hurricane Sandy, and a strong nor’easter at the same time, was going to be disastrous. Let me say one thing about the aftermath: “the government is not going to be a savior on a white horse.”
Now I’m not talking about Doomsday Prepper junk. I’m talking about general readiness in case of hardship. If you think about it, a generator of some size, enough food for your family for at least a week and a way to cook are good things to have on hand all the time. A couple of lights at night and a full stomach go a long way in keeping spirits up when your forced into camping mode.
The federal government is not set up to be “Johnny on the spot.” It is up to everybody to prepare for an emergency and be at least somewhat self-sufficient for a short period. Here in our world, we don’t see hurricanes, but we do have tornados, severe storms and the occasional snow/ice storm.
So do yourself a favor: think about the ice storm of 2000 and ask yourself what did you needed to make things better -- not perfect, just better -- and plan for future problems now. For more information on being ready check out the FEMA website -- www.fema.gov.
54
ALT Magazine
December 2012
Your Life Is Changing... But Your Location Shouldn’t Have To.
With Aging In Place Remodeling, Enjoy Your Own Home For A Lifetime.
John Harris has over 15 years of experience in “Aging In Place” Remodeling. His design concepts and materials used are universal in nature, meaning the homes are equally useful and comfortable for a healthy young person as they are for a senior citizen with hip or knee problems.
their Aging In Place designs is his true calling, and he genuinely cares about the physical, mental and emotional condition of everyone he assists. “When a family is sitting in the doctor’s office discussing the options after their loved one has just had hip surgery or a knee replacement, I want to make going back home a possible option.
John is married to Leigh Harris, who works as Development Director at CASA for Children. Their children are Mallory Harris22, Corbin Harris-13 and Walker Davis- 12. John and Leigh have two pets, Jinx the Schitzu- 7 and Brutus the Boston Terrier- 4.
John explains, “Of course, there are some elements of a home that are specifically tailored to certain special needs, such as a person who is bound to a wheelchair, but the overall concept of Aging in Place Remodeling is to adapt the home that you love so that it accommodates your changing life, body and health, and still maintains an attractive, comfortable design that can be enjoyed by everyone.” John believes that helping people with
Typically, when the home is not ready for a person who is immobile, extended time in a rehabilitation hospital, nursing home care, enrollment in an extended care facility or some combination of these are the only available options.”
Professional Associations: Member BBB Texarkana Home Builders Association National Home Builders Association
www.johnharrisconstruction.com
Phone: 903.490.6161 or Fax: 903.792.4301
Find us on
by Dustin Stringer Stringer Wealth Management LPL Financial www.stringerwealthmanagement.net
Tactical Investing What is Tactical Investing? At first it may seem counter intuitive because it goes against nearly everything you’ve probably heard about investing, namely that you build wealth by buying mutual funds and holding them over the long term. Tactical investing works by moving your assets in and out of key asset categories, such as large growth, large value, small growth and small value. We don’t look for bottom-up solutions such as trying to find inefficiencies between individual securities. Rather, we look at entire markets, sectors, countries and major investment styles. Through our strategic partners at LPL Financial, our clients can take advantage of this paradigm shift in investment strategy.
Tactical Investing Vs. Traditional Buy and Hold
of market dynamics. Fees are also higher for mutual funds than for ETFs.
Tactical
Buying Puts: Works in catastrophic circumstances and may cost the client extra expenses when market volatility is in a relatively normal state.
Global Tactical Asset Allocation: Ongoing adjustment of portfolio asset allocation based on computer-driven models of global market dynamics. A Financial Advisor should help you stay current on market trends, asset allocation strategies, and economic developments to help ensure that your strategic and tactical decision making benefits from a sound foundation. Moving in and out of the Market: To minimize overall risk, many parts of a portfolio may be moved into cash, cash equivalents or fixed products until computer models indicate it is time to get back in the market. Uses Exchange Traded Funds: ETFs offer investors an undivided interest in a pool of securities and other assets that can be bought and sold throughout the day. Additive/Absolute Return and Risk Management Strategies: Any additional basis points one can compound, in any market direction, while protecting invested resources and effectively managing risk is a bonus for the investor. Traditional Strategic Investing: Annual or semi-annual reallocation of assets; that is, reallocation is driven by a set schedule, not by changes in the market. Buy and Hold: Staying in the market through ups and downs. Uses Mutual Funds: Mutual funds offer investors an undivided interest in a pool of securities that can be purchased or redeemed at the end of each trading day –making them much less liquid than ETFs and thus less capable of taking advantage
A Financial Advisor should help you stay current on market trends, asset allocation strategies, and economic developments to help ensure that your strategic and tactical decision making benefits from a sound foundation.
*Disclaimer: This report is intended to provide you with an analysis of your major financial goals. It is based on the data and assumptions you have provided or instructed us to make. Consequently, the outcome of the analysis will be dependent upon the accuracy of your data and reasonableness of your assumptions. Assumed rates of return may also either be assigned by your Adviser, or if utilizing Asset Allocation, be based on the historical returns of the benchmark indexes for the asset class. Please review all assumptions before reviewing the rest of the report to ensure the accuracy and reasonableness of the assumptions. Inaccurate or unreasonable assumptions may materially impact the results of the plan. It is important to note that actual results may differ due to any number of events. Some events are within your control, such as your spending habits, while other events, such as market performance, interest rates and tax policies, are not. To the extent that any of the referenced assets represent current account holdings there is no guarantee that these rates will be achieved. While assumptions are based on historical index data, past performance is no guarantee of future results. Indexes are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. Assumed rates of return are hypothetical which do not reflect the deduction of fees and charges inherent to investing in securities are not representative of any specific securities. Your results will vary. Growth assumptions for business assets and stock options are speculative and should be discussed and agreed upon by you and your financial advisor. LPL Financial does not provide tax or legal advice. The information contained in this report should be used for informational purposes only. The appropriate professionals should be consulted on all legal and accounting matters prior to or in conjunction with implementation of the plan. Securities and Advisory Services Offered Through LPL Financial - A Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA / SIPC
Janet Green Interior Design
Peace on Earth...
Merry Christmas!
Complete Interior Design Service & Custom Window Treatments Office: 903.831.6617 Cell: 903.826.2540 4205 Richmond Place - Texarkana, TX 75503
99 Y EARS OF B ANKING FOR THE P EOPLE R E A S O N #99 Our merger with MidSouth Bank is a recipe for success for our customers and employees. THE PEOPLE YOU KNOW ARE HERE TO PROVIDE YOU WITH EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE AND PRODUCTS NOW AND WHEN WE BECOME
MIDSOUTH BANK.
Peoples State Bank and MidSouth Bank a partnership for growth.
PeoplesState.com December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
57
A r k - L a - Te x Resource Guide
Air and Heating Central Air 450 S. Kings Highway Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.1212
Attire Abby Gayle’s 4012 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0088
Red River Federal Credit Union 2700A University Ave. Texarkana, TX 75503 903-735-3000 800-822-3317
Krause Service Company, Inc. 200 Industrial Blvd. Nash, TX 903.831.3912
Gayle’s 4059 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0056
Texar Federal Credit Union Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.223.5626
Apartments Arista Apartments 3515 Arista Blvd. Texarkana, TX 903.255.7869
Automobile Service/Tires Cooper Service 5320 N. State Line Texarkana, TX 870.772.6971
Legacy at Pleasant Grove 5911 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 888.763.2676
Discount Wheel & Tire 3223A Summerhill Road Texarkana, TX 903.793.0887 406 Loop 59 Atlanta, TX 903-796-6777 4807 W. 7th St. Texarkana, TX 903.832.0408
Texarkana First Bank 3601 East 9th St. Texarkana, AR 870.772.0222 615 Sam Houston Dr. New Boston, TX 3625 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.793.6955
Richmond Oaks Apartments 2815 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.832.6150 Summerhill Woods Apartments 4501 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.793.7888 Westwood Apartments 101 Redwater Rd. Wake Village, TX 903.832.8446 58
ALT Magazine
December 2012
Banks Peoples State Bank 5600 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.838.2300
Wells Fargo Bank 3615 E. 9th St. Texarkana, TX 903.838.1187 1301 Arkansas Blvd. Texarkana, AR 903.223.1545 2900 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.223.3516
Sugar & Spice Catering Shari Frachiseur 903.276.4389
Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354 Reception Arts Becky Risinger Ashdown, AR 870.898.5273 Caterers/Private Chef Big Jake’s BBQ 2610 New Boston Rd. Texarkana, TX 903-793-1169 1521 Arkansas Blvd. Texarkana, AR 870-774-0099 Big Jake’s BBQ (Continued) 603 W. Commerce Hope, AR 870-777-1000 170 N. Constitution Ave. Ashdown, AR 870-898-2227 Culinary Creations Pam Elliott 903.831.4674
Clothing Abby Gayle’s 4012 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0088
Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354
Cakes Coldstone Creamery 4228 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.838.2653
Gayle’s 4059 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0056
Wendy’s 4201 Stateline Avenue Texarkana, TX 2902 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 3737 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 1615 N. Hervey Hope, AR 124 N. Loop Highway 59 Atlanta, TX
College/University Southern Arkansas University Magnolia, AR www.saumag.edu
Wingstop 2700 Richmond Road, Suite 14A1 Texarkana, TX 903.255.0090 4501 N. State Line, No. 106 Texarkana, TX 903.792.9464 Church Highland Park Baptist Church 2401 Hazel St. Texarkana, TX 903.792.6996
Texarkana College 2500 N. Robison Road Texarkana, TX 903.823.3456 www.texarkanacollege.edu Texas A&M University-Texarkana 7101 University Avenue Texarkana, TX www.tamut.edu Dental/Endodontics Texarkana Endodontics, PA Jason Michel, DDS 1826 Galleria Oaks Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.793.7411
Why Wait? Meet Your Baby Today With A
3D/4D ULTRASOUND
Christmas Special!
Actual Images from the Womb
Now Open in Texarkana!
$20
Off
Any 3D/4D Ultrasound
Call Today!
(870) 779-PNUT (7688)
www.4DPeanutGallery.com December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
59
Dry Cleaning Holiday Cleaners Locations throughout Texarkana Area 870.773.4072 Electrical Services Mr. Electric 903.838.0161
Silvermoon on Broad West Broad at Texas Blvd. Texarkana, TX Special Events on the Boulevard 2101 Texas Blvd. Texarkana, TX 75501 903.794.2101 Texarkana Convention Center Crossroads Busines Park Texarkana, AR 870.216.2000
Entertainment CableOne 855-692-4121 Legendary Shooting Sports 925 Brower Lane Texarkana, TX 903.334.9605 Texarkana Symphony Orchestra 903.792-4992 Tickets 870.773.3401 TRAHC 321 W. 4th Texarkana, Texas 903.792.4992
Estate and Garage Sales Somewhere in Time 903.277.3392 903.278.2259 Financial Planner Dustin Stringer Stringer Wealth Management 1620 N. Kings Highway Nash, TX 903.223.0011
Unique Flowers 4801 Loop 245 Texarkana, AR 870-774.1300 Funeral Home Texarkana Funeral Home 4801 Loop 245 Texarkana, AR 870.774.1200 3515 Texas Blvd. Texarkana, TX 903.794.1200 Chapelwood Funeral Home 1015 N. Kings Highway Nash, TX 903.838.5300
Fitness Centers Anytime Fitness Richmond Road 3415 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.794.5348
Event Locations Garrison Gardens Texarkana, AR 71854 870.773.0275
Florists Ruth’s Flowers 3501 Texas Bllvd. Texarkana, TX 903.793.6711 www.ruthsflowers.net
Furniture Oak Creek Furniture 8024 West 7th St. Texarkana, TX 903.832.0793
Regional Arts Center, Cabe Hall 321 W. 4th Street Texarkana, TX 75501 903.792.8681
Sweet Indulgence for the Holiday Season
It’s Here... Home and Office Delivery! Commercial Brewer Special in December!
24 Count
Bolls Distributing Company 870-774-4185 www.mountainvalleytexarkana.com 60
ALT Magazine
December 2012
Mozzarella Chicken Supreme!
Gifts Dot’s Ace Hardware 3411 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.838.0059 Hair Care A Total Change 930 N. McCoy Blvd., Suite 6 New Boston, Texas 75570 903-628-6135 Serendipity Salon of Texarkana 4308 Texas Boulevard Texarkana, TX 903.255.0554 Style Studio Lisa Harris 3201 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.1719
TEXAS-SIZE SAVINGS Refer A Friend For A Chance To Win! Quarterly drawings for $500. See agent for details. NEW BOSTON 903.628.3451 TEXARKANA 903.838.8707 Coverage and discounts are subject to qualifications and policy terms, and may vary by situation. ©2012 Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Companies.
December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
61
THe
PreSenTS
hristmas C aT T H e P e r oT
Sunday, December 16, 2012, 4:00PM | Historic Perot Theatre
with special guest
Santa Claus
special pricing for kids! $10 (6-12 years old) $5 (under 5 years old) when accompanied by an adult @ regular ticket price
regular ticket prices $29, $44 & $52 sponsored in part by
featuring
Pleasant Grove Independent School District’s Curtain Call Productions and Showstoppers; The Texarkana Regional Chorale, Texarkana College Choir, Arkansas Baptist College (Little Rock) Choir; and High School Choirs from Arkansas High, Liberty-Eylau High, Texas High, and Veritas Academy.
Perot Theatre Box office (903)-792-4992
texarkanasymphony.org Texarkana Regional Chora e
Lois and Cary Patterson Martha and Josh Morriss nancy and richard Carr
TYSO Christmas Concert Sunday, December 9, 2012, 5:00PM Pleasant Grove High School Performing Arts Center 5406 McKnight Road, Texarkana, TX
Hospitals Christus St. Michael Health System 2600 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.614.1000 Health South Rehabilitation 515 West 12th St. Texarkana, TX 903.793.0088 Wadley Regional Medical Center 1000 Pine St. Texarkana, TX 903.798.8000 Hotels Best Western Texarkana Inn & Suites 5219 Crossroads Parkway Texarkana, AR 870.774.1534 Clarion Lacross Hotel 5100 N. Stateline Ave. Texarkana, AR 870.774.3521 www.lacrosse-hotel.com Courtyard by Marriott 5001 North Cowhorn Creek Texarkana, TX 903.334.7400 Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott 4209 Mall Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.838.1000 Hilton Garden Inn and Texarkana Convention Center 2910 S. Cowhorn Creek Loop Texarkana, Texas 903.792.1065 Holiday Inn Express & Suites 4545 Cowhorn Creek Road Texarkana, TX 903.223.0008 TownePlace Suites by Marriott 5020 North Cowhorn Creek Texarkana, TX 903.334.8800 Insurance Farm Bureau Insurance 4413 Morris Lane Texarkana, TX 903.838.8707 911 W. US Highway 82 New Boston, TX 903.628.3451 Greg Cockerell State Farm Insurance 4807 Texas Blvd. Texarkana, TX 75503 903.793.7502 Ron Morrow State Farm Insurance 3306 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 75503 903.832.5505
62
ALT Magazine
December 2012
Presenting...
Kevin Myers, Pastor Chuck Guilbert, Minister of Music
It Took A
Our Gift to You... Book Your Group’s Accommodations or Event and Unwrap 5,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points!
Lamb.
...A Musical Christmas Production...
Sunday, December 16, 2012 10:45 am
The above offer is subject to availability. Group rooms and group rooms with catering function must be booked by 12/31/2012 and take place no later than 03/31/2013. This offer is valid for new bookings and not valid with functions already under contract. Cannot be combined with any other special offers. Certain restrictions may apply.
NOW OPEN
2910 S. Cowhorn Creek Loop Texarkana, Texas 75503 903.792.1065
www.hgi.texarkana.com sales@texarkanaconventioncenter.com
Love God. Love People. Experience Life. 2401 Hazel, Texarkana, TX 903 . 792 . 6996 December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
63
Medical Supplies ArTex Medical 3101 Kennedy Lane, Suite 1000 Texarkana, TX 800.794.2859
Invitations I Do Wedding Favors Debra Jones 903.826.9879 Jewelers Alexander’s Jewelers 3701 Mall Drive Texarkana, TX 903.832.3557
Photographer Image Forward Photography 200 Heather Dr. Texarkana, TX 75501 903.334.9605
Crocker’s Jewelers 3117 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.832.8686
Pet Grooming Georgia’s Pet Salon & Boutique 101 Slaton Nash, Texas 903.223.8223
Micah’s Jewelers 2812 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 903.735.2336 Make-up Gayle’s 4059 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0056 Salon Visage Esthetique Mary Ann Robbins 4506 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.794.4007
Beauty and Wellness Center Dr. David Whitten 5303 Cowhorn Creek Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.908.2885
Real Estate Crown Leasing 6500 Summerhill Road Texarkana, TX 903.792.6000
Carmony Oral, Facial and Implant Center 5305 Cowhorn Creek Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.791.8405
Gerald Haire Realty Kaci Bennett 3725 Mall Dr. Texarkana, TX 870.903.3049
- Jane Agan & Family
Call Today to Book Your Equipment Rentals! 903-277-3161
VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.SPECIALEVENTSTXK.COM TABLE LINENS (LARGEST “IN-HOUSE” INVENTORY IN FOUR STATES AREA) CHAIR COVERS SASHES CHINA CRYSTAL SILVER PUNCH FOUNTAINS CAKE PLATEAUS FOOD SERVICE EQUIPMENT CATERER’S EQUIPMENT TABLES CHAIRS MEETING ROOMS BANQUET ROOMS
*SETUP & BREAKDOWN SERVICE AVAILABLE ALT Magazine
December 2012
Texarkana Gastroenterology Consultants and the Endoscopy Center of Texarkana 1920 Moores Lane Texarkana, TX 903.792.8030 903.791.8657 Plumbing Central Air/Roto Rooter 450 S. Kings Highway Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.1212
Texarkana’s Original Equipment Rental Company invites you to visit their 5,400 sq. ft showroom of party equipment and 6,000 sq. ft of banquet space now available for rent. An additional 10,000 sq. ft. of space is now available. Thank you for the opportunity to serve the Four States Area since 1958.
64
Northfield Accupunture 619 E. 6th St. Texarkana, AR 870.772.8622
Physicians Advanced Bariatrics 1939 Morres Lane Texarkana, TX 75503
LOCATED AT 2101 TEXAS BOULEVARD
903-794-2101
Express Care 5483 Summerhill Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.223.5931
Gerald Haire Realty Janet Willis 3725 Mall Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.748.5385 Impact Realty Bill and Tracy Spradlin 1200 N. Kings Hwy., Ste 104 Nash, TX 903.748.3186 903.748.2477
www.dierksenmemorialhospice.com
Merry Christmas
Impact Realty Cody Sandone 1200 N. Kings Hwy., Ste 104 Nash, TX 903.276.7565
&
Teresa Liepman Remax 5120 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 75503 903.276.9464
Happy New Year
Refreshments Bolls Distributing 700 E. Broad St. Texarkana, AR 870.774.9283 Vincent’s Fine Wines 6900 N. Stateline Texarkana, AR 870.774.7217
From Our Family To Yours... 903.793.6350 6500 N. Summerhill Rd., Ste. 2B Texarkana, TX 75503
870.773.4353 4425 Jefferson - Suite 104 Texarkana, AR 71854
December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
65
Rentals Dot’s Rentals 814 N. Robison Road Texarkana, TX 75501 903.792.7011 3413 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.838.0551 Special Events on the Boulevard 2101 Texas Blvd. Texarkana, TX 75501 903.794.2101 Restaurants Big Jake’s BBQ 2610 New Boston Rd. Texarkana, TX 903-793-1169 1521 Arkansas Blvd. Texarkana, AR 870-774-0099 603 W. Commerce Hope, AR 870-777-1000 170 N. Constitution Ave. Ashdown, AR 870-898-2227 Coldstone Creamery 4228 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.838.2653 Dairy Queen Locations throughout Ark-La-Tex Fish Creek 1514 Arkansas Blvd. Texarkana, AR 870.223.0595 Gusano’s Chicago Style Pizzeria 2820 Richmond Road, Texarkana, Texas 903.792.8646 Hopkins Icehouse Downtown Texarkana, AR Corner of 3rd and Wood 870.774.3333
Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354 Shorty’s Donuts 2729 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.6686 Tasty Donuts 1443 N. Kings Highway Nash, TX 903.838.0422 Wendy’s 4201 Stateline Avenue Texarkana, TX 2902 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 1615 N. Hervey Hope, AR 124 N. Loop Highway 59 Atlanta, TX Wingstop 2700 Richmond Road, Suite 14A1 Texarkana, TX 903.255.0090 4501 N. State Line, No. 106 Texarkana, TX 903.792.9464 Retirement/Assisted Living Home The Magnolia 4205 Richmond Meadows Texarkana, TX 75503 903.838.7319 Winfield Estates 3535 South Lake Drive Texarkana, TX 903.792.1062 Roofing Aqua Roofing Anthony Jewell 3523 Locust Texarkana, AR 903.244.5706
Spas/Salons Salon Visage Esthetique Mary Ann Robbins 4506 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.794.4007 Ultrasound Services 4D Peanut Gallery Texarkana, AR 870.779.7688 Wedding Attire Bridal Castle 3209 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.838.3886 Wedding Coordinators Abracadabra Wedding and Event Planning Debra Mason, Event Coordinator 903.748.4838 damason@cableone.net Heather Kiser Wedding Coordinator 903.314.1582 Wedding Favors Pop Pop Shoppe 2011 Mall Drive, Suite B Texarkana, TX 903.793.0209 Wedding Planners Abracadabra Wedding and Event Planning Debra Mason, Event Coordinator 903.748.4838 damason@cableone.net Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Locations Ironwood Grill 4312 Morris Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.4644 Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354 Silvermoon on Broad West Broad at Texas Blvd. Texarkana, TX
Ironwood Grill 4312 Morris Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.4644
Thank You for Your Support!
Lewis Danny
It’s very much appreciated!
Candidate Elect for Miller County Treasurer 66
ALT Magazine
December 2012
Got a QR Reader on your smart phone? Check out the ALT website! Enjoy!! alt-mag.com
License# 131954
www.TheMagnoliaAssistedLiving.com
A New Standard to Dementia Care.
Wishing You A Very Merry
Christmas...
903.838.7319 4205 Richmond Meadows Texarkana, TX 75503
A Residential Alzheimer’s Care Assisted Living Facility.
& A Happy
New Year!
Emmanuel Otero; Marketing Director Rafael F. Otero, Ph.D., Clinical Director Certified in Dementia Care December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
67
Mary, Did You Know? Christmas Trivia...
The word Christmas is Old English, a contraction of Christ’s Mass. The first president to decorate the white house Christmas tree in the United States was Franklin Pierce. Germany made the first artificial Christmas trees. They were made of goose feathers and dyed green. Electric lights for trees were first used in 1895. The first Christmas cards were vintage and invented in 1843, the Victorian Era. (You can read more about the history of Christmas Cards here.) “It’s a Wonderful Life” appears on TV more often than any other holiday movie. Rudolph” was actually created by Montgomery Ward in the late 1930’s for a holiday promotion. The rest is history. The Nutcracker” is the most famous Christmas ballet. Jingle Bells” was first written for Thanksgiving and then became one of the most popular Christmas songs. If you received all of the gifts in the song “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” you would receive 364 gifts. The poinsettia plant was brought into the United States from Mexico by Joel Poinsett in the early 1800’s. Contrary to common belief, poinsettia plants are non-toxic. Holly berries are poisonous. Mistletoe was chosen as Oklahoma’s state flower in 1893 and later changed to the state floral emblem. In 1843, “A Christmas Carol” was written by Charles Dickens in just six weeks. The first state to recognize the Christmas holiday officially was Alabama. Christmas became a national holiday in America on June, 26, 1870. An angel told Mary she was going to have a baby. Black Friday is not the busiest shopping day of the year. Although it varies, it usually lands sometime in December. Clearing up a common misconception, in Greek, X means Christ. That is where the word “X-Mas” comes from. Not because someone took the “Christ” out of Christmas. Traditionally, Christmas trees are taken down after Epiphany. More diamonds are sold around Christmas than any other time of the year. In Mexico, wearing red underwear on New Year’s Eve is said to bring new love in the upcoming year. Read more at www.christmas-celebrations.com 68
ALT Magazine
December 2012
903.334.9605
imageforwardweddings.com
Portrait Artists Debbie Brower Jaclyn Gooding Miranda Johnson
by Vincent Senatore
Gifts Worth Sharing... Maybe it’s because I’m in the business, or I spend so much of my time focusing on adult beverages. But, I can’t imagine a better Christmas gift than a delicious bottle of wine or spirits. There is a myriad of gift giving opportunities associated with adult beverages. First of all, I hate to shop. I want to get in and get out as quickly and as painlessly as possible. I’m not good at picking sizes or colors. I’m certainly not aware of the newest fashions or styles. I’m not really against going to a store and picking up the items that I need. I do it all the time for my wine classes. But, I just don’t want to shop. I’m not camping out all night to get a super deal on electric underwear or blinking earrings. Further, I’m not interested in browsing. And, let’s not forget the checkout lines. Bypass surgery is a breeze compared to long lines at the check out counter. I haven’t blocked for anyone or tackled anyone in 40 years. Why would I want to get a “clipping” penalty just to get into a store? That’s why the gift of wine, spirits or fine crafted beer is so much more attractive. Besides, if you give a bottle of wine, the recipient might actually share it with you! What a concept! OK, let me give you a few ideas -- If you are planning on giving “anybody” a tie this year, DON’T! Give Tie-Man something he might actually enjoy. Make that gratuitous ”Thank you smile,” a smile of great joy and real gratitude by getting him a bottle of single malt scotch or a nice barrel aged bourbon. Maybe you are planning a lovely scarf for Auntie Em. Save the wool or silk and get her a delicious bottle of Amaretto DiSaronno or a nice Moscato Asti. While Uncle Louie really loves that 6 pack of tube socks that you get him every year, try replacing it with a 6 pack of Sam Adams Winter Lager. He will love you for it. Also, there’s the pre-packaged wine and spirits gift sets. We only get them once a year and the inserts are set at no extra charge. Here are a couple of gift ideas. They’re fun and a great value. The Biltmore Christmas Wine is a fun white wine with a hint if sweetness and a tart mouth feel. Add a chunk of Swiss cheese and some wheat crackers and you have a wonderful gift package. For the person with the sweet tooth, I’d recommend a 70
ALT Magazine
December 2012
bottle of Umberto Fiori Moscato D’Asti. This would be an amazing gift for less than $15. This year, there are oodles of great new wines and spirits, especially the “red wine blends”. The blend of multiple grape varieties offers the consumer an entirely fresh, new approach toward the consumption of red wine. Red wine blends breathe faster and match up with a much wider variety of food items. They’re usually fruitier and acid friendly to most palates and they finish clean. Since Apothic Red (a red blend) entered the market last year, there have been some really tasty wines like Jack’s Blend from Australia’s McWilliams winery, Authentic Red from Gnarly Head Winery. In addition, Cupcake offers a very supple Red Velvet blend and The Wolftrap Red Blend from South Africa is a robust wine that works really well with stews and “Crock Pot“ dishes. Lastly, when invited to a great Christmas feast, leave the fruit cake or the cheese ball at the grocery store and bring a bottle of wine. If you or your host is serving a Christmas ham, turkey, or pork roast, this year’s version of Nouveau Beaujolais is the ideal match. If a goose or a smoked turkey is the star of the show, then you may want a rich, fruit-filled Pinot Noir. Being Italian, I’m usually constructing Lasagna or Baked Ziti. Anything drenched in tomato sauce deserves a big tasty merlot, like Deloach or Clos Du Bois. Now, if beef tenderloin, prime rib or filet mignon is on the Christmas menu, try a bottle of Rodney Strong Cabernet Sauvignon or Columbia Crest Amitage (bordeaux blend from WA State) or “R” Cabernet Sauvignon by Raymond Vineyards. All of these wines are under $17 per bottle. So, before you stress yourself out over the perfect gift, think about the adult libation. Not only will you make someone very happy, but they might share with you. The gift that really makes everyone merry! I look forward to this season with delicious anticipation. Have a Happy Holiday season and we look forward to seeing you at our new location on Realtor Road (Next to El Chico’s). Enjoy your holiday parties and remember to consume your adult beverages in MODERATION.
GIVE THE GIFT OF HEALTH
NCENT’S V Fine Wines & Liquors
www.vincentsfinewines.com vincentsfinewine@msn.com Best Selection of Fine Wines & Crafted Beers Food-Oriented Newsletter
In-Store Wine Tastings
Experts at Party Planning
Free Gift Wrapping Available
3-MONTH MEMBERSHIP GIFT CERTIFICATE ONLY $99 + TAX 24-hour, co-ed fitness Secure, Comfortable, Clean Worldwide access to all Anytime Fitness clubs, more than 1,000 locations! Cutting-edge cardio equipment Top-of-the-line strength equipment And much more!
www.anytimetexarkana.com 870 . 774 . 7217 Next to the new El Chico!
410 Realtor Rd Texarkana, AR 71854
3415 Richmond RD Texarkana, TX 75503 903-794-5FIT(5348) December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
71
Texarkana Unleashed
1. Dog House
EVENT
2. Julie and Leon Sanderson 3. Misc. Photo of flower decor 4. Ken Larson and Connie Mitchell
WHERE
Texarkana Country Club
5. Sara Waddle and Buzz Barron
WHEN
11/8/12
7. Ray Walsh and Kyle Barrett
6. Bonnie Judd and Vicki Deskin 8. Susan Cater, Mindy Day and Marty Cater 9. D. Marlatt, Nick Williams and Jennifer McElroy 10. Debbie Brower and Jaclyn Gooding 11. Sharon Shipp and Gena Shipp 12. Michelle Snow and Lori Stevenson 13. Karen Lovejoy and Pamela Johnson
1
72
ALT Magazine
2
3
14. Michelle Miller and Pat Walraven
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
14
15
16
17
20
21
22
23
26
27
28
29
December 2012
15. Mike Richardson, Melissa Cook and Dr. Betty Feir 16. Nathan and Lauren Thomas
“Because living at home is the best way to live.” www.homecareassistance.com
17. Calais Crabtree, Kyle Barrett, Tavo Cruz, Bertha Shipp, Mindy Day and Colt Caywood 18. Kyle Barrett and Bertha Shipp 19. Stella Sharp, Jan Frey and Darla Clement 20. Melissa Berry, Melanie Gloster, Christie McJunkins and Scott Murray 21. Stephanie Fuzy and Michelle Boswell 22. Cameron Allred and Melissa Shirley 23. Steve Harrelson and Camille Harrelson 24. Rahn Payne and Sierra Payne 25. Built the Dog House: Skip and Kelley King 26. Mimi and Ellis McDaniel 27. Mel Walsh, Melanie Gloster and Ray Walsh 28. Selden and Kathy McMillin
Companionship and recreation Transportation and errands Light housekeeping Meal preparation Medication reminders Bathing, grooming and dressing Located Next to Bryce’s Cafeteria - 903.306.0335
29. Andrew and Caroline Curry, with Mindy Day 30. Tavo Cruz, Ben and Stacey Hendershott 31. Photo of Dog house built by Skip King
12
13
18
19
24
25
30
31 December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
73
Free Shred Event
EVENT WHERE WHEN
Peoples State Bank 10/24/12
TEXARKANA, TX – Peoples State Bank hosted a Free Identity Theft Prevention and Shred It Event for the Bowie County community. Over 700 pounds of personal information was shredded, brought by businesses and residents of Bowie County. Documents were shredded on site while individuals waited. This free service was provided in an effort to help protect the community against identity theft. Those who attended also received information on Scam Alerts! One of the latest credit card scams to hit the area is when the scammer doesn’t ask for your account number, because they already have it! The scammer claims to be from the Security and Fraud Department of MasterCardor Visa, and will even give you a badge number and a toll free call back number, sounding very official. The scammer says your account has been flagged because of unusual activity, and asks if you made a specific purchase. When you say “No”, the scammer says that they will credit your account for the amount. Here’s the key to how the scam works. The scammer will then ask you to verify that you have possession
Have You Also Been Dreaming of What Treats Santa Might Bring You This Christmas? www.poppopshoppe.com
903.793.0209
1.866.209.4553
Homemade Fudge Gift Boxes & Tins Gourmet Snacks 74
ALT Magazine
December 2012
of your card by reading the threedigit security number off the back. That number is what scammers want, so they can make online purchases with your account. If you receive this call, hang up immediately. Remember to never give out your 3 digit number to anyone you did not call. Contact your local police and file a report. The Federal Trade Commission estimated that as many as 10 million Americans have their identity stolen each year. In fact, you or someone you know may have experienced some form of identity theft. To deter identity thieves, we advise that you shred financial documents and paperwork with personal information before you discard them. For more information on this Shred It event, contact LaCarsha Babers at 318-238-4421. Pictured are Peoples State Bank Texarkana Office Manager Schlundrya Carter and Peoples State Bank Security Officer Ken Freeman.
December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
75
Hands 0n Texarkana EVENT
Texarkana Golf Ranch
Kayla Robinson, Micki Wright, Schlundyra Carter, Joy Jordan and Mary O’Farrell 2. Kenneth and Teri Sloan 3. Carri Campbell and Amber Sullivan
WHERE
WHEN
1. Kathy Graves, Heather Keith, Kenyann Lucas,
4. Clifford Seaton, Calvin Martin, Schlundyra Carter, Thornton Mitchell, Billy Willis, S. L. Redix, Aaron Collins
10/25/12
5. Julie Collins and Kelli Lovell 6. Luke Kemp, Aaron Collins, Jerry Law and Wiely Kemp 7. Scott and Catie Swenson, Nancy Jackson 13
1
8. Damon Whitt, Dave Jones and Chad Dowd
2
9. Roger Hailey, Sophia Teel and Mayor Bob Bruggeman 10. Nancy Jackson and Mickey Evers 11. Warren Crabtree and David Carter
3
4
Chocolate Peppermint Perfection Creation Treat Everyone This Holiday Season
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Icecream...
Holly Jolly Peppermint Cake
Here For a Limited Time Only!
903.838.2653 4228 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 76
ALT Magazine
December 2012
12. Kelli Lovell and Sophia Teel
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Anti-aging
Facials
Body Wraps
French Wax Hair Removal
Glycolic & Salicylic Acid Exfoliators
Salon Visage’ Esthetique face & body salon
Owner/Esthetician, Mary Ann Pavey
Why NuFACE®? Tightens, tones, and firms in as little as 45 minutes! Progressive results for 72 hours after one application! Reduces the appearance of cellulite and skin slackening!
4506 Summerhill Rd Texarkana,TX 903.794.4007
Tuesday-Friday: 10am-6pm
It’s called “saggy skin” for a reason. As we age, the muscles of the face become weaker and slacker, and the skin less elastic. No matter how much effort we put into our facial skin care regimen, there is no way to avoid the visible signs of stress and aging on our face – wrinkles, slack, tired eyes or jowly jaw. It’s inevitable. You’re forced to just live with your aging face or think surgery. This is not acceptable to us, and is exactly why we developed NuFACE®. Here’s our solution: developed by experts from aesthetic and consumer product industries, our unique, patented, clinically proven technology stimulates and tones your facial muscles without any damage to your skin.There’s no knife. No injections. No needles. No lasers, even. Best of all, all of your treatments can be performed safely and conveniently in the comfort of your home. You get visible results without surgery.
In a recent clinical study:
- 85% of users experienced improved facial contour - 73% of users experienced improved facial tone - Users even experienced a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles after just 30 days of consecutive use Simply put, your face will feel better. You will look better. It’s completely non-invasive, FDA-cleared, and all treatments can be done from the comfort of your home.
Non-Surgical Facelifts Medical Grade Diamond Fusion Microdermabrasion Aruba Air Brushing Tanning December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
77
EVENT
Dempsey, Winford Dunn, Deborah Jones and Jean TeenCourt of Texarkana 1.AnnKristie Yeager
Open House
Bi-State Municipal Courtroom WHEN 11/13/12 WHERE
13 1
78
ALT Magazine
2
2. Kristie Dempsey and James Syler 3. Katie Carter, Mayor Wayne Smith, James Syler, Judge Sherry Hawkins and Mike Landers 4. Frank Poff, Katie Carter and Winford Dunn 5. Charlie Goins and DeAnn Goins 6. Mayor Wayne Smith, Kristie Dempsey, Sandy Varner, Mike Landers 7. Steve Harrelson and Kristie Dempsey 8. Barry A. Baker and Deidra Combs 9. Jason Dempsey and Jimmy “Smitty” Smith 10. Mary Kaye Crenshaw, Dena and Michael Hill 11. Frank Poff and Judge Sherry Hawkins 12. Kristie Wright and Heather Barnette 13. Reggie and DeAnn Goings, with Frank Poff 14. Back row from left: Charlie Goins, Jacob Hill, Steve Crenshaw. Front row from left: Samantha Thacker and Olivia Landrum 15. Jason Dempsey and Mike Landers 16. Kristie Dempsey and Pam Burns 17. Kristie Dempsey, Judge Sterling Lacy and Chief Tony Dollarhide 18. Jimmy “Smitty” Smith, Sandy Varner and Mayor Wayne Smith 19. Morgan Shirley and Melissa Shirley 20. Jimmy “Smitty” Smith, Heather Barnette and Fire Marshall Stephen Johnson
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
December 2012
19
20
EVENT WHERE WHEN
Thanksgiving Feast Red Lick ISD 11/14/12
Red Lick, TX- Red Lick ISD hosted their first annual “Thanksgiving Feast” provided by the new RLISD Food Services department. Director of RLISD Food Services, David Blanton stated, “I am amazed at the community support for the Red Lick school district. The turn-out for the Thanksgiving Feast exceeded all expectations.” Over 304 meals were served on Tuesday, November 13th and 310 meals were served on Wednesday, November 14th. Also represented was the newly formed Red Lick ISD Education Foundation. Nancy Reiter, President of the RLISD Education Foundation greeted parents, grandparents and community members as they waited for lunch to begin. Reiter explained to the attendees that an Education Foundation will assist the district by providing grants to the teachers. The photo at left is of parent Kerry Meredith and her first grade son, Langdon. They both enjoyed their meal. “The food was excellent!” quoted Meredith.
Kerry Meredith and her first grade son, Langdon
“With having our own food service department, Red Lick ISD will be equipped to host more events like the Thanksgiving Feast.” explained, Rose Mary Neshyba, Superintendent Red Lick ISD.
Playing
Christmas Music
y l s u o u n i Cont ously ly
Continuous
u n i t n o C Christmas Season through the
Christmas December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
79
Texarkana Boots & Saddle Club EVENT
WHERE
Smokey Joe’s BBQ
WHEN
11/9/12
80
1. Misc. photo of saddle 2. Morgan Smith and Shelley Ferrell 3. Chloe Campbell and Bryton Self 4. Bryton Self and Austin Boswell 5. Bryton Self and Jenna Jenkins Johnson 6. Chloe Campbell, Colleen Crumpton and Emily Crews 7. Chloe Campbell, Colleen Crumpton and Kelsey Knowles 8. Chloe Campbell, Colleen Crumpton and Shelby Boswell 9. Chloe Campbell, Colleen Crumpton and Roxanne
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
ALT Magazine
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
December 2012
Reynolds 10. Chloe Campbell and Colleen Crumpton 11. Chloe Campbell, Colleen Crumpton and Bradi Kae Brooks 12. Chloe Campbell, Colleen Crumpton and Ravyn Hillis 13. Chloe Campbell, Colleen Crumpton and Gayle Neher 14. Bryton Self, Wayne Jones and Colleen Crumpton. Front row: Morgan Smith and Chloe Campbell 15. Clay and Mylene Smith 16. TBSC Hi Point 2012 Gayle Neher 17. - 18. Misc. photo of saddle 19. Life time member awarded to Phil Smith with Johnny Nettles 20. Bryton Self and Ginger Jenkins 21. Jenna Jenkins Johnson and Ginger Jenkins 22. Lillian, Emily, Malinda and Joe Crews 23. Stephen and Kim Crumpton 24. Phil Smith, Dana Knighton and Rhealey Knighton 25. Terry and Johnny Nettles 26. Tammy and Jim Day
Billard Maintenance
Marshall Gooding - 903.277.0307
Over a Decade of Experience.
. Leveling . Felt Replacement . Cushion Replacement . Generic Repair . Moving December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
81
COMING SOON!
LEGE N D A R Y
F irearms Shooting Sports
2013 Classes: Texas Concealed Handgun NRA Home Firearm Safety NRA Basic Pistol NRA Personal Protection in the Home
903.334.9605 101 Slaton Dr., Nash, TX In the Nash Business Park off HWY 82. www.legendaryshootingsports.com
Follow us on Facebook for updates!
LEGE N D A R Y $5 off e Field Fe on Sundays!
Christmas is just around the corner! Let us help make a CUSTOM PACKAGE DEAL for you! Follow us on Facebook for holiday specials!
Group ra starting tes per plaayt $27 Al equip er! fees an ment, paint includded !
S at u rd ay : 1 0 : 0 0 - 6 : 0 0 - S u n d ay : 1 : 3 0 - 6 : 0 0
903.334.9605 925 Brower Lane, Texarkana, TX 75501 info@legendaryshootingsports.com www.legendaryshootingsports.com
3 Playing Fields Fully Netted & Insured Gun Speed Tested Experienced Refs Shaded Picnic Area Private Parties Available
Komen Pasta Party
1. LaKisha Washington and Dr. Brian Matthews 2. Vickers and Whitney Fuqua 3. Amanda and Jason Horton 4. Turisha Duson, Jennifer Blake, Courtney Williams and Carissa Gray 5. Andy Price, Pam Beck, Dr. Cindy Porter and Chuck Phillips 6. LaRhonda Hamilton, Herise Williams, Verna Davis and Cynthia Henderson 7. JoAnn Rice and Jennell Ingram 8. Jacque Jovic and Terrie Arnold 9. Mayor Bob Bruggeman, Micah Friday, Liz Bruggeman, Rachael Schwartz 10. Leon Sanderson, FaEllen Yates, Julie Sanderson, Julia Mobley and Jeff Brown 11. Pat Cravens and Rose Trotter 12. Kim Mennie, Sally Patton and Jason Horton 13. Camille and Senator Steve Harrelson 14. Shannon and Nathan Richardson 15. Char Crane and Gayle Wright 16. Lifford Luthringer, FaEllen Yates and James Culp 17. Julie and Leon Sanderson, with Judie Rackley 18. Lisa Barr and James Bramlett 19. Adrianne and Dr. Bix Rathburn
EVENT
WHERE WHEN
Four States Fair 10/19/12
1
84
ALT Magazine
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
December 2012
20.Sheriff Ron and Veronica Stovall 21. Arwen and Mike McDaniel 22. Wade and Kim Fowler 23. Marietha Neal and Rita Williams 24. Jerry Smith, A.L. Crawford and Tavo Cruz 25. Elaine Lindsey and Howard Morris 26. James Bramlett, Cheri and Bo Rester 27. Kathi and Tim Hickerson 28. Mary Marracino, Kelley Crisp and Kelli Phillips 29. Kathy Hudson Ann Nicholas 30. TEXAR 31. Jerry and Yulin Brewer with Sheriff James Prince 32. Cliff and Sheena Guillot, Summer Sturdevant and Savannah Lishman 33. Reggie and DeAnn Goins, Cheri and Bo Rester 34. Aileen Tran, Dr. Anthony and Deanna Tran and Aimee Tran 35. Aileen Tran, Ann Nicholas and Aimee Tran 36. Lori and Camille Harrelson with Andy Woodman 37. Stella Sharp and Yulin Brewer 38. Jessica Wilson and Cindy Smith 39. PVC Band 40. Misc. Photo 41. Kelli and Jeff Phillips 42. Cindy Hubbard and Kathi Hickerson
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42 December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
85
Making life better... with concrete countertops... Gooding Decorative Concrete is excited to be rolling out a new line of Decorative Concrete Countertops after completing intensive training from one of the leading designers and manufaturers of concrete countertops and furniture in the industry, Buddy Rhodes. Located in San Fransisco California, Buddy Rhodes has been creating custom countertops and concrete furniture for over 20 years. He has taken his vast knowledge of Concrete Countertops and the materials to create them and passed them on to us! We decided that if we were going to make Concrete Countertops part of our business portfolio, we were not going to just make the same old countertops everyone else makes. After researching the industry we found that most Concrete Countertop mixes were pretty much the same, you pick a color from about 8 and then had 3 choices of edge design and 1 choice of intregal/surface design.
What we have done is expanded the color options to just about anything, added more edge designs, and offer 4 intregal/surface options. Surface Options: Troweled: (one solid color) This is by far the most popular countertop look. The surface will have a solid color with no aggregates visible. Lightly Grinded: With this finish you will be able to see small aggregates(sand-small quartz) in the countertop.
Marshall Gooding, Owner
Grinded/Ground: Similar to the first this finish makes visible more aggregates (sand-quartz-limestone-pea gravel). With this finish we can add various items to enhance the visual appeal. Crushed Glass, polished stone, even a college logo just to name a few. Pressed: (two colors) The pressed technique is a process created by Buddy Rhodes in which two contrasting colors are used to create a look that is quite unique in todays Concrete Countertop Market. With Concrete Countertops, each project is a one of a kind, handcrafted work of art. We work closely with each client to choose a color and design that is both fitting to its surroundings as well as practical for everyday use. For a free estimate, give us a call. We’d love to talk with you!
Other companies may talk about experience -- our quality and experience show in our work! We will be happy to travel throughout the Ark-La-Tex! Call us today!
ooding G Merry Christmas from
decorative concrete
other n a r o f u Thank yo ul year! wonderf
Custom Pergolas Wood and Trex Decking Counter Tops Pet Feeders Custom Furniture Pressure Washing Acid Stains and Scoring Indoor/Outdoor Overlays
903.277.0307 www.goodingdc.com
The Texarkana Humane Society is a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to re-homing orphaned animals, promoting the human-animal bond, preventing animal cruelty, educating children and adults about responsible pet ownership and preventing pet overpopulation. In order to reduce the number of unwanted animals and the euthanization of them at the shelter people need to spay/neuter their pets. The Texarkana Humane Society has a program to help individuals do this and urge everyone to get involved and tell your neighbor, family, and friends to be responsible and do their part in putting a stop to this problem here in our city. Have them contact us regarding our program. Call 903 8386334 and we will be glad to help you.
Texarkana Humane Society
The Texarkana Humane Society is always needing volunteers as well as foster homes. If you would like to get involved and lend a helping hand they would love to talk with you. They are also needing the following items to help with the care of all the babies that come into foster: Puppy and kitten chow, formula for the babies, animal baby bottles, as well as monetary or debit card donations. We have a big need for individuals who have the time to bottle feed some of these babies. It is so sad when we cannot take any in because we are full and would welcome a few more bottle moms. It is a great expereince as well as very rewarding taking care of these little ones. If you can help with donations or feeding call Sherrie at 903 838-6334. Volunteers who agree to provide a foster home for our strays are provided with medical care for the animals. The Humane Society pays for all immunizations and spays or neuters the animal.
Our goal is to place these animals in permanent homes with responsible, loving pet owners. All of our services are provided through private donations from our community. Donations are accepted and needed! Our animal friends appreciate you and your donations are tax deductible! (The Humane Society is all volunteers and all money goes towards the animals.) We’ve got a full house! Please come visit us! You might find the addition your family has been looking for! Do you have an animal that needs a new home? Please don’t neglect it! Call us and let us help you find a foster home. We will list your animal on our Facebook page at no charge. Let us help! For more information, contact Sherrie Thompson, President, at 903.838.6334, or go to www. texarkanahumanesociety.com. We’re also on Facebook!
Come visit us at Petsmart on the fourth Saturday of every month!
1
2
1. Casper is our little senior citizen that is ready to celebrate the holidays in a new home. He is a malti-poo that is still full of life and love. He loves everyone he meets and gets along well with other dogs. This little man is also housetrained. Consider opening your doors to a mature fella. For more info call Diana at 903-838-4965. 2. Meet Greenlee! She is a precious little Daschund/Terrier mix weighing around 21 pounds. She is less than a year old, spayed, microchipped, current on all vaccinations and negative for heartworms. This little lady loves to please and gets along great with other dogs. For
88
ALT Magazine
December 2012
3
4
more info call Lee Ann at 903-244-4847. 3. Talk about a party animal, Feather would be a great addition to help celebrate the holidays. She is a very loving little girl and is a cuddle bug. She has been spayed, current on shots, heartworm negative, housetrained and weighs 9 pounds. For more information call Diana at 903838-4965. 4. and 5. Hansel and Gretel are Terrier mixes and weigh in at less than 10 pounds. They are fully vetted, heartworm checked and microchipped. For more information call Diana at 903-838-4965.
5
6
7
6. Laverne is a rat terrier mix weighing a whopping 13 pounds. She has been spayed, current on shots, chipped and heartworm negative. She is a very sweet girl that loves kids and people. She gets along well with other dogs and is housebroken. Call Amber at 870-6536983 or 903-949-9389. 7. Little Shirley is an 18 pound rat terrier. She has been spayed, current on shots, chipped and heartworm negative. She is a very sweet girl that loves kids and people. She gets along well with other dogs and is housebroken. Call Amber at 870-653-6983 or 903-949-9389.
1
2
3
4
5
1. Cindy is a female Pomerainian/Shih Tzu mix and is about 4 months old. She is shy at first but then becomes very loving and very sweet. 2. Chip is a Husky mix. He is a nuetered male and about 9 years old. He’s very playful and would love to go home with you! 3. Izzy is a female Terrier mix. She is very loving and is waiting for a family to take her home.
The mission of the Animal Care & Adoption Center of Texarkana, Arkansas is to be a technologically advanced, self sustaining, human and animal friendly facility that specializes in personal customer service from a team of knowledgeable, caring individuals who endeavor to achieve rapid placement of all adoptable animals. We are always in need of caring, capable volunteers to assist in with duties at the center, adoption events, fund-raising activities and more. Your tax-deductible donation will help care for and assist in the adoption of loving animals to good homes! The Animal Care & Adoption Center of Texarkana, Arkansas is located at 203 Harrison, Texarkana, AR, 71854. For more information, call Connie Slater at 870.773.6388, or visit www. animalcareadoptioncenter.org. We’re also on Facebook! We’re open Monday-Saturday from 10:00 - 5:00. Please note, all dogs adopted from this shelter MUST be spayed or neutered. Spays cost $89-$104, neuters are $76-$92 depending on the weight of the dog.
6
7
8
4. Dijon is a spayed female Shepherd mix. She’s about 3 years old and is very loving. She loves attention and to be played with. 5. Deezy is a male Terrier mix. He is energetic and loves to cuddle! He just needs someone to love. 6. JuneBug is a male Chihuahua mix. He might seem shy at first but he warms up very quickly and loves to run and play.
9
10
11
12
9. Maya is a female Husky. He’s about 4 years old and a good, cuddling dog. 10. PomPom is a female Pomeranian. She loves to be petted and played with. She’s just waiting on her forever home. 11. Raven is a female Pit. She is very shy, loving and sweet. 12. Racer is a male Hound. He is a shy dog but very loving and loves to cuddle and be loved on. 13. Tiny is a female Terrier mix. She loves to play and get
Who else can help? Artex Animal Welfare, Inc. (mostly horses) 903.824.1990
13
7. Lara is a female Pit. She is very laid back and loving. She’s just waiting for that perfect person to rescue her. 8. Jasmine is a female Hound mix. She is energetic and would make the perfect loving, family dog.
14
15
16
attention. She is also a big cuddler. 14. Star is a female Chihuahua mix. She just wants to be part of a family. 15. Trey is a male Pit/Boxer mix. He is very loving and loves to play and have his chin scratched. 16. Max is a neutered male Alaskan Malamute mix. He is about 9 years old and just waiting on someone to come make him a part of their family.
We’ve got lots of kittens needing good homes right now!
Three Rivers Animal Rescue 903.490.4048 Poodle Patch & Friends poodlepatch@yahoo.com Passion for Pooches (mostly small dogs) 903.832.8632 Texarkana Animal League 877.525.4825 Texarkana Reptile and Amphibian Rescue 903.809.3761
THS Hosts Pet Pics w/ Santa! Dec 8 from 11:00-4:00 at PetSmart. The wonderful staff and friends of the Texarkana Humane Society will be taking those great pet photos with Santa and proceeds go right back to the rescue! They will also have donation boxes there for any items you could donate. THS is always in need of dry food for puppies, dogs, cats and kittens, scoopable cat litter and litter boxes, collars, leashes, toys, beds, heartworm and flea medications, gift cards and monetary donations. These donations are all tax deductible, as the Texarkana Humane Society is a 501c3 organization. If your are interested in donating, helping with events, fostering or working fundraisers call Sherrie at (903) 838-6334.
Here’s Sam pictured with his new family, Joshua, Heidi, Emily and Roxie. This wonderful family came out to Pet Smart Saturday to meet Sam and let him and Roxie meet. As you can see, things went well and Sam is now living with his new family. Thanks Humphrey family for adopting this really sweet fella. Courtesy of the Texarkana Humane Society
Happy Tails! December 2012
www.alt-mag.com
89
December December 3
28th Annual Main Street Texarkana Christmas Parade ”The Sights and Sounds of Christmas” will roll through the streets of Downtown Texarkana in MST’s 28th Annual Electric Christmas Parade! Bands, floats, cars, and more are sure to delight children (and adults) of all ages. Watch for special news coming in October! In Historic Downtown Texarkana starting at Broad and Hazel Streets (Texarkana AR), up Broad Street into Texarkana TX, right on Texas Blvd., right on Third Street, left on State Line Avenue, then north ending at the Post Office starting at 7:00 PM TO 10:00 PM For more information 903.277.4603
december 7-8
Open House-Women for the Arts & For Art’s Sake Gift shop invite you to attend the 2012 Open House and Arts Market on Friday December 7th from 10AM-5PM, and Saturday December 8th from 10AM-2PM at the Regional Arts Center (West 4th and Texas Blvd.) Local Artists and artisans will have their creations on sale throughout the first floor gallery spaces. Come shop for everyone on your list and enjoy complimentary holiday refreshments! FREE to the public!! Call TRAHC at 903.792.8681 for more information.
december 8
The New Boston United Fund will present “Homes for the Holidays,” a Christmas tour of three beautifully decorated New Boston homes, on Saturday, December 8, 2012, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets are $5.00 on sale at the New Boston Chamber
90
ALT Magazine
December 2012
Calendar of Events
of Commerce. Please call 903-278-3090 for information.
December 13
Business After Hours at Scott Equipment Co LLC starting at 4:30 AM TO 6:30 PM 5401 Sanderson Ln Texarkana, AR 71854 Call for more information 903.792.7191
december 13
TRAHC presents Cirque Dreams Holidaze Live at the Perot This show lights up the 2012 Holiday season when it transforms the stage into a wonderland of fantasy and disbelief. Tickets are $52, $4, & $38, with half priced student tickets in the balcony. Call the Perot Theatre Box Office for tickets at 903.792.4992 or buy online at www. TRAHC.org
located behind Catfish King off of Summerhill road and College Drive at 7:00 PM TO 9:00 PM For more information contact LaRhonda Hamilton at 903.244.9283
december 16
Texarkana Symphony Orchestra presents Christmas at the Perot @ 4pm. Featuring the Texarkana Regional Chorale, Texarkana College Choir, Arkansas Baptist College Choir and local high school choirs. Repertoire includes holiday favorites and the annual Carol Sing-Along. Tickets are $52,$44, and $29 with half priced student tickets in all sections. Special pricing for children includes $10 for kids 6-12 years and $5 for kids 5 and under. Call the Perot Thearte Box Office for Tickets at 903-792-4992 or buy online at www. TRAHC.org
december 25
december 15
4th Annual Youth Talent Show for youth ages 8-18, must be in high school or below. There will be 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners. Each winner will receive a trophy, monetary gift, picture in local magazines, and an appearance on local tv show. We’re asking for the community to come together and support our youth while they are engaging in something positive. Youth ages 8-18, please come out and showcase your talent or come out and see some great entertainment. and the number or email address provided. Texas Middle School Blackbox theather
Janurary 1
From our families to yours, best wishes for a
Very Merry Christmas! Let us help you be in your dream home for the New Year!
Bill Spradlin
Tracy Spradlin
Jan Williams
Cody Sandone
Karyn Baucum
Justin Sandone
Jessica Snow
Stephanie Maddox
Realtor 903-748-3186
Realtor 903-278-3836
www.impactrealtyonline.com billsprad@aol.com spradlintd@aol.com
Broker 903-748-2477
Realtor 903-701-6721
Realtor 903-277-5771
Realtor 903-293-9183
Realtor 903-276-7565
1200 N. Kings Hwy., Suite 104, Nash, TX 75569 117 N.E. Front New Boston, TX 75569
Realtor 903-223-0710
903.223.0710 903.628.3186
Want a New Home in the New Year?
Call today to find out how much you can afford.
Jason Cree
Branch Manager NMLS #209270 | AR #17523
If you’re thinking of buying a home, call me first to learn how much you might be qualified to borrow. Knowing how much you can afford can put you in a stronger position when you negotiate your purchase contract.
903-223-5632 office 903-277-2726 mobile jcree@SWBC.com
Even if another lender has provided a quote, call me. We’ll perform an apples-to-apples comparison to ensure you are receiving the best financing for your situation. This is a complimentary service so there’s nothing to lose—and the straight facts to gain.
Visit my website to apply online www.jasoncree.com Providing exceptional service to Texarkana and surrounding area borrowers for more than 15 years.
Once you find your home, ask SWBC to provide you with a homeowners insurance quote, too.
Ask for your complimentary home buying booklet today.
PuRChASE
•
CONVENTIONAL
•
FhA
•
VA
•
JuMBO
3101 Kennedy Lane, Ste. 200 Texarkana, TX 75503 •
REFINANCE
•
RuRAL DEVELOPMENT
•
INVESTMENT PROPERTy
© 2012. SWBC. All rights reserved. Loans are subject to credit approval. Certain conditions and lending guidelines apply.
92
ALT Magazine
December 2012
5120 Summerhill Rd Texarkana, TX 75503
Office: 903-794-5250 Toll Free: 866-473-1953 Preferred
Investors, start your year right,with Rental Property, that can help you on those taxes. Low Interest Rates, Great Deals With Local Lenders and Motivated Sellers on everything, including Foreclosures. Whether you are thinking Single Family, Duplexes or an entire Group of Duplexes, this is a Super time to Buy. Additionally, Several Properties are in Prime Areas, north of the Interstate. Check out 5616 Century Lane, North of the interstate. A total of 15.3 acres for your Dream Development. They aren’t making any more DIRT! Low taxes until you are ready to develop, just off North Park Road. Super area to develop for a small neighborhood, and close to Northridge Country Club! Additionally, 7800 Alumax Road, in Nash, are 13 acres perfect for development- city water, sewer and road frontage. FM 2148 & Alumax. Don’t forget New Boston- prime real estate on Hwy 8 South, 8 acres ready to develop close to Red River Army Depot. Multiple Duplex Properties, reasonably priced, starting at $127,500. With options in North Texarkana, New Boston or Redwater, this is the time to take action! Make your best investment, where your money will grow.
Check these opportunities out before the year is Over.
Enjoy Your Family This Christmas Season, & Remember Why We Celebrate. We All Received The Ultimate Gift!
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
903.276.9464 cell
teresasoldit@hotmail.com www.TeresaLiepman.com Water Springs Ranch is a Christian-based Organization that shelters, clothes, educates and Loves Children that have no place to go. It is my pledge to donate to these children, on behalf of my clients, with each home sold. You will note the Watersprings Ranch Rider on each one of my signs. - Teresa
BOULEVARD
Mortgage Group “Making 1019 North Kings Hwy Nash, TX 75569 903-334-REFI (7334)
BIG Dreams Come True.”
217 W 2nd Street STE 211 Little Rock, AR 72201 501-812-LOAN (5626)
109 Cedar Bend Abilene, TX 79602 325-754-8227
201 S 20th St Suite 6 Rogers, AR 72758 479-636-4512
4141 Blue Lake Circle 240A Dallas, TX 75244 972-638-REFI
100% Financing Available* FHA, VA, Conventional, & Rural Development Loans Fast Approvals Quick and Easy Refinancing Reverse Mortgages Available Non-Owner Occupied Investment Property * Availability subject to borrower and property eligibility
Ryan Clift
Cody Lorance
Billy Whitt
NMLS #139306
903.334.REFI (7334) www.thebmgllc.com
God gave His greatest gift to us on that first Christmas Day. May the wonder of it always guide and light your way...
Merry Christmas!
From Our Hearts to Yours...
Have a Very Merry Christmas!
www.healthsouthtexarkana.com