ALT October 2011

October 2011 . Vol. 5, Issue 10

The

American

Dream Is Still Alive and

Well

Family, Fashion, Faith

Marshall Gooding of Gooding Decorative Concrete

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ALT Magazine

October /contents

EVERY MONTH

10

k / COVER

The American Dream

Dream big, and you might just accomplish something! These men prove that the American Dream is still within reach! L-R: Christian Cisneros, David Melson, Marshall Gooding

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Editor ’s Letter

54

Financial Focus

20

F i s h Ta l e s

68

From His Heart

61

High School Leaders

78 Second Chances from the Kennel Korner 24 Uncorked 83

Real Estate

EVENTS 16 1 0 t h A n n i v e r s a r y o f 9 / 11 G o l f To u r n a m e n t

Speak up...

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Andra Ayers never dreamed when she left for a trip that her world would drastically change. This courageous woman wants YOU to know what to do when you are traveling to be safe!

F E AT U R E S T O R I E S

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Minton’s SBA Success Celebration

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9 / 11 A n n i v e r s a r y T r i b u t e

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Beauty from Within Fashion Show

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Blood Drive at The Magnolia

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Kids for the Cure Art Presentation

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Archonettes and Amicettes’ Induction

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Pink Glove Dance Video

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TSO Celebrity Conductors Competition

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The American Dream Is Still Alive and Well

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Speak Up. Speak Out. Save Lives, She Does.

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20 Interesting Facts About The Human Body

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Understanding and Surviving

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Medical Guide

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A Tw i c e A s N i c e L i f e

56

Resource Guide

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Halloween Inspirations to Die For

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Calendar of Events

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ALT Magazine

C U LT U R E

A Cause We All Hold Close To Our Hearts

A woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every two minutes in the United States and there will be 230,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer in 2011 alone.

This is why every nurse, every physician, and every associate of CHRISTUS St. Michael whole-heartedly believes in our mission to fight this disease. This is why we believe each and every woman deserves a life-saving mammogram.

Whether uninsured or under-insured, and regardless of ability to pay, every woman needs and deserves the benefit of early detection.

Take a vital step in protecting your health. Â Contact your physician to schedule your mammogram today.

If you are uninsured or under-insured, contact the CHRISTUS St. Michael Breast and Cervical Care Outreach Program at 903-614-2667

EDITOR’S letter

ark-la-tex’s premiere magazine

New endings...

O c t o b e r 2 0 11 / V o l . 5 , I s s u e 1 0

Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending. ~ Anonymous

Do you ever wish you could go back and start something over, maybe reaching a different result? Sure you do! I know I have, on many occasions. Remember, hindsight is 20/20.

Don’t you wish you knew what the future held so that you would know exactly what to do and when to do it? That’s just not how life works. We make the most of what we have and when we feel like we can do no more, we make a new start.

This issue is all about new starts. Marshall Gooding is a young man with a drive and desire to create something lasting, beautiful and profitable. His business venture, after working for others, was a step in faith. I often tell people that when I have started my businesses, I have prayed until I felt at peace with the decision, then I stepped over the cliff with God holding my hand. Marshall Gooding did the same. He couldn’t go back and change anything in the past, but he could certainly do something about his future.

Andra Ayers, in my opinion, would be someone who welcomed being able to go back and start the trip over that changed her life. Instead, she moves forward, bravely helping others understand the dangers of women traveling alone. Instead of thinking about the past, she looks toward helping others in the future.

But what about when the future seems scary? A cancer diagnosis can certainly be a terrifying for both the individual suffering diagnosed with cancer, as well as their family and friends.

Betty Miller is determined to make a new beginning for all who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, going through the same thing she went through. She understands their feelings and thoughts, and is there through the trying times, helping others learn how to move forward.

In the process of reading all of these stories, I realized that for me, the only one who has the ability to start from now and make a brand new ending is me -- with God’s help, of course. If there is something I believe needs to be changed and I do not have the ability to change it, I either have to change my attitude or make a decision to eliminate the issue. I have struggled with many decisions in my life, and with God’s help, I have made good choices for me and my family.

It always amazes me how many people complain about things but never do anything about them. They just want to hear themselves complain. The old saying is, if you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen! Well, my advice is to take action -- just like Marshall, Andra, Betty and I have done! Don’t sit around complaining! Learn that sometimes action is what is necessary to make your brand new beginning, and with God’s blessing, you will thrive!

God bless you!

Publisher/Editor

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ALT Magazine

Publisher and Editor / Debbie Brower Associate Editors / Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson Photography / Image Forward Photography, Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson, Rozana Page Sales & Marketing Manager / Charlie McMurphy Feature Writer / Jane Bouterse, Anne Fruge Contributing Writers / Mike Brower, Jeff Schreve, Vincent Senatore, Dustin Stringer Arborist / Mike Brower

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

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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 $36.00 per year. Contributions from our readers are welcome. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material.

©2011 ALT Magazine

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The

American

Dream Is Still Alive and

Well

by Jane Bouterse

Imagine a 27 year old from Texarkana, Texas, being the subject of a discussion some 1162 miles away in Washington, D.C. –a discussion taking place in the White House, no less. As my dad would have observed, “Who’d a thought it?”

W

ell… perhaps this scenario does push the margins of even a vivid imagination, but it is not so inconceivable when given a context. America needs an economic revival, and that can only be provided by jobs. At a recent Startup America initiative, the Small Business Administration pitched to the President 200 distinct ideas to promote entrepreneurship. The majority of them revolved around successful small businesses—the backbone of the American economy. Their acceptance was reflected in President Obama’s jobs for America address in which he emphasized the importance of small businesses to the nation’s economic recovery.

That 27 year old who might have been included in the White House discussion? He would be Marshall Gooding who, with the help of his family members and hard work, is getting his small business, Gooding Decorative Concrete, “off the ground.” Marshall, a talented man with any tool, has a natural affinity for construction. In fact, his

first foray into college was to study construction management. As is often the case, his opportunity to explore college classes was premature, so he returned to Texarkana from John Brown University and went to work at Atlas Game Room. Here he had the opportunity to build custom pool tables and furniture of all types. “My mother told me my grandfather said I just had it in my blood, like her,” Marshall reports. “I can pick up any tool and use it successfully.”

Marshall has cultivated his talents in a number of ways. He left the Game Room and worked about six months for a local decorative concrete business-- a newcomer on the construction scene. About the same time he enrolled in Texas A&M University, Texarkana, to complete his college degree. In November 2008, his mother-in-law, Debbie Brower, approached him about beginning his own decorative concrete business. Although he was interested, he knew he would need assistance. His family was there to lend their helping hands.

Debbie, Jaclyn (Marshall’s wife), Miranda Johnson (his sister-in-law) and Ann Gooding (his mom) were lined up to get him started.

The decision to start on his own began with research, spearheaded by Debbie. Elite Crete Systems had roots deeper in the decorative concrete and flooring business than any other company or product line in the industry, and they were seeking to expand their dealerships.

Today Elite Crete dealers dominate the U.S. market while also operating in more than 20 countries worldwide.

investing his time and effort and succeeding in earning not only a living wage but a lifestyle. They all knew achieving the Dream would take time.

Once Elite Crete endorsed the efforts of the concrete crew, everyone had to travel to Richardson, Texas, for training in their respective areas. By the time they returned to Texarkana, they all understood that “Decorative concrete means making concrete more visually appealing; making old concrete look like new by using colors, patterns and textures. In the The timing for Marshall The staff at Gooding Decorative Concrete process, the concrete was perfect; therefore, will gladly come give you a free quote to is likely to become the responsibilities were transform your old concrete into a work not only stronger but quickly divided among of art. References are available. From his supporters. Debbie L-R: Christian Cisneros, David Melson and maintenance free, and the entire process was adept at constructing Marshall Gooding is affordable.” When business plans and the team of Gooding Decorative Concrete keeping track of expenses and profits. returned to Texarkana, they understood what Jaclyn and Miranda were just as expert “overlay” meant and could even say “hybrid” at developing impressive and creative blended polymer emulsion cement modifier publicity and marketing tools in hard copy without wincing. or media outlets. Ann was willing to be Marshall’s assistant on the job, as she did The business was officially opened in not mind getting dirty. The stage was set for November 2008. Headquarters were the the opening of this small business. From Brower’s garage or driveway, and friends the beginning, the idea was driven by the became some of the first clients of the American Dream of “being his own boss,”

fledgling effort.

Since decorative concrete can be applied to outdoor venues like driveways, patios, poolside areas or interior floors—commercial or residential, the opportunities for introducing and installing the covering are numerous. After plans are finalized and surfaces cleared, most jobs can be completed in five days: Day 1 Clean and prepare the surface.

Apply the first coat of flexible concrete.

Day 2 Create the pattern and apply the second coat of concrete.

Day 3

Texture the surface

Day 4 apply

Mix and match colors on site and

Day 5 Seal the concrete and clean up.

Any completed surface requires 72 hours drying time before it is ready for use.

The team quickly learned that terms like “Quality,” “Ease of Use,” “Affordable,” and “Innovative” were appropriate as the installations were made. Their training in all aspects of decorative concrete, flooring, restoration and coloring had emphasized repeatedly the use of quality products and skilled installation. Over the years, the company had listened to contractors, designers, architects and home owners. The results? Exceptional products. Elite Crete also stressed the importance of customer service. Making his customers happy has been Marshall’s priority from opening day!

As his expertise grows, so does his confidence. Marshall’s voice reflects his excitement, and his hands slice the air.

“When we do an overlay,” he explains, “we clean the existing slab and apply a new, thin layer of concrete. (The formula for this layer is the result of significant research efforts by Elite Crete with the right chemistry and sand and liquid.) This layer makes the surface stronger, and we can create whatever kind of texture the customer wants.

We can design intricate patterns and mix any color/s. We can make it look like tile, if that’s what you want, complete with grout lines which don’t get dirty or dingy. If you’re worried about falling on a smooth surface, we can make the surface rough—whatever you want.” It is obvious Marshall not only knows what he is doing but believes in the durability and stability of his product.

Marshall is learning quickly what the Elite Crete people already knew. The demand for his product is not as affected by economic fluctuations—especially downturns-- as other products often are. The decorative concrete can be used in remodeling, refurbishing, repair of older property or new construction. In fact, everyone has probably walked on an Elite Crete floor at one time or another without even realizing it. Elite Crete floors can be found in Burger Kings, McDonalds or IHOPs, automobile

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ALT Magazine

CITIBANK SURVEY FINDS SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS PREPARED (Survey results released September 7, 2011) ECONOMIC KEY FINDINGS *94 percent said they feel they are either very (66 percent) or somewhat (28 percent) responsible for the nation’s economic recovery. *90 percent are concerned about the possibility of a double-dip recession. *79 percent are prepared if the economy were to experience another downturn. *78 percent plan to keep the same number of employees, while 17 percent plan to increase in the next year, and only 5 percent foresee the need to reduce. *30 percent plan to hire temporary or part-time workers instead of full-time employment.

THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES of owning/ operating their own businesses over the past few years:

*Declines in sales/poor economic conditions (61 percent). *Personal stress/ being accountable for everything/everyone (60 percent).

THE AMERICAN DREAM *Despite the challenging environment, the majority of small business owners (64%) say they are living the American Dream. *83 percent said owning a small business helps them fulfill the American Dream. *For small business owners, living the American Dream also means being able to afford the lifestyle they want (73 %) and being able to save and plan for the future (72%). *77 percent cited “’being their own boss’” as the key benefit to being a small business owner.

YAHOO! Finance

*Taxes, insurance and/or benefit costs (65 percent).

www.alt-mag.com

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dealerships, football stadiums, Six Flags Amusement Parks, corporate headquarters like Coca Cola, even Bass Pro Shops-actually, they are everywhere.

Gooding Decorative Concrete customers can rest assured that they are dealing with an experienced, thorough manufacturer whose resources are dedicated to keeping the customers happy: For Contractors/Installers: Technical support is available via. telephone and onsite along with the widest array of products for decorative concrete, stamped concrete, custom interior flooring, industrial flooring and coatings, concrete repair and concrete coloring.

For Entrepreneurs: Complete business start ups assistance along with basic and advanced training are available. Ongoing support in all phases of the business.

For Property Owners: Free estimates and consultations to discuss your project. “When we first started, I would get so nervous when I went to give a quote,” Marshall explains.

“Now it doesn’t bother me.” (His confidence has grown with his knowledge.)

Design Professionals, Architects, and Specifiers also have services available, like spec writing, samples of any finishes or colors, consultations to discuss projects and onsite project reviews.

As a practical point, Debbie adds, “Marshall is also really good at visualizing and mixing colors. He can anticipate how things are going to look when he’s done and is so creative with the patterns and textures, too.”

She speaks from first-hand knowledge, since her house, patios and porches have been used as learning sites. Still, Debbie declares, “This is the best thing ever. It is so easy to maintain. I love it, and it is so pet friendly, too.”

“As an editor at a well-known construction magazine put it, ‘in a contest of all-out decorative concrete products compared to Elite Crete Systems, it looks like the other suppliers brought knives to a gun fight.’”

Marshall shakes his head and declares almost in awe, “I never believed I could be so successful at this stage in my life.”

When he first began the installations, his mom assisted him. “She’s a good worker,” he laughs, but she has moved on. He has just hired his first fulltime employee, David Melson and has big dreams of using David to manage a crew in the Longview area while Marshall keeps a Texarkana crew busy.

“The day before David was officially hired, he set up three jobs on his own,” boss Marshall beams. “He is really good.” Plans are now being made for Marshall to attend classes in Knoxville, TN, where he will learn how to make concrete counter and table tops which can be casted in place or molded. (His first table top weighs a prohibitive 800 pounds.)

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ALT Magazine

LOOKING AHEAD: THE REST OF 2011 AND 2012 OUTLOOK (Citibank Small Business Survey)

As small business owners look to the future months and 2012, 50 percent say it will be “steady as she goes—continuing much as we are now” for the holiday season.

In an effort to improve or grow their business in 2012, small business owners plan to: ♣ Increase their marketing efforts (61 percent)

 Consumer confidence (64 percent)  Maintaining or increasing sales (63 percent)  Taxes and/or government regulation (62 percent)

As small business owners plan for 2012, they are likely to increase:

♣ Get better pricing from suppliers, vendors or landlords (58 percent)

o Use of their website to drive business (62 percent)

♣ Introduce new products and services (56 percent)

o Marketing using social networking sites (41 percent)

♣ Work longer hours (45 percent)

o Use of e-mail marketing (40 percent)

Looking forward to 2012, topping the list of most important issues for their business:

Marshall and Debbie have big dreams for Gooding Decorative Concrete, and they are well on their way to realizing them.

Jaclyn sometimes has to step in to tone them down a bit, but she and Miranda are just as excited as the rest of the crew.

The American Dream is well on its way to happening, and Jaclyn wants to be sure it becomes a reality. Meanwhile, Marshall has almost completed his degree, even though he has been building his own company all along the way.

By August 2011, Gooding Decorative Concrete had doubled its value. Today, the original $10,000 start-up money has grown to almost $250,000—even though November 2011 will mark the completion of only the third year of business. “The last four calls we have had were from people who had heard about us,” Marshall explains proudly. People do talk about jobs well done, and small businesses tend to specialize in quality. It’s just good business to support them. So, “Who’d a thought it?”—Those who believe in America as a Land of Opportunity and their own hard work.

Gooding Decorative Concrete -Good product…good service…hard work--The American Dream IS Still Alive!

Look for the Gooding Decorative Concrete ad in ALT Magazine and get in touch with them. You’ll be glad you did.

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For information on advertising in Texarkana’s Premiere Magazine, Call Charlie McMurphy Today! 903-908-5797

EVENT

10th Anniversary of 9/11 Golf Tournament

1. Heath Shumate and Gretchen Cobb 2. Dr. Kent Kelso and Heath Shumate, the creators of the 9-11 commemoration at TAMU-T and the golf tournament.

3. Winners of the Micah’s Jewelers donated watches - John Stephens won the Ladies watch and Todd Carroll won the Mens watch 4. Steve Weed in the putting contest 5. Paul Quaid Jr. in the putting contest 6. Todd Langdon of Langdon RV and Trailers sponsored the putting contest

Benefits the Wounded Warrior Project WHERE

NorthridgeCountry Club

WHEN

9/10/11

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ALT Magazine

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to clean the motor up. I like to run a can of “Seafoam” through mine this time of year to clean out all the junk that comes with using fuel containing alcohol.

Pour a whole can into your gas tank and go fishing. Seafoam will do the rest. It cleans everything it comes in contact with and “THAT’S GOOD.” Next let’s clean up and secure the boat itself. Start at the front and check for loose screws in the rub rail and any other hardware that is there. Check all the way around the boat (including the motor mounting bolts.) Now check the water in all the batteries and refill as necessary. If they are over two years old, consider replacement. Old and highly used batteries will go bad in prolonged cold weather. Next, change the lower unit oil in the motor, checking for any metal shavings or water after f you are one of those who follow the Farmer’s Almanac, then draining, then refill. Finally add a couple of ounces of “Stabil” to you already know what winter has in store for us. If you don’t, the tank and refuel until full. This will help keep water vapor from then here it is. According to the “Book,” we will have a mild and accumulating in the fuel tank (which is not a good thing) during very wet winter, which is a good thing I guess. Since the winter is the winter temperature swings. supposed to be “mild,” then you would expect to be able to enjoy more of the outdoors. However, we should be on guard for those These are some things that will help keep you from being made “rogue” winter storms and be ready should we get one in our part fun of when winter is over and you venture out to the lake, drop of the world and the boat sits there for weeks. the boat in the water, crank it up and go fishing while the “other guy” can’t get his stuff to work. CRANK,CRANK,CRANK….well Let’s start with our boat and motor. This would be a good time you know...

by Mike Brower

Do You Believe?

I

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ALT Magazine

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coupon. Not valid with other offers, promotions or discounts. Good at participating Texarkana area DQ locations only. Void if altered, copied, sold, exchanged or where restricted by law. No cash value. Plus tax if applicable. Blizzard, CheeseQuake, DQ and the ellipse shaped logo are trademarks of Am. D.Q. Corp., Mpls. MN ® Reg. U.S. Pat. & TM Off. Tx. D.Q. Op. Coun., ©2011. © 2011 Great Lakes Dairy Queen Owners Marketing Group, L.L.C., All Rights Reserved. OREO is a Registered Trademark of KF Holdings, Inc.The Reese’s trademark is used under license. EXPIRES 10/31/11

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Minton’s SBA Success Celebration EVENT

WHERE

Minton’s Sportsplex

WHEN

8/24/11

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1. John Campbell, Mike Minton, Damon Earnest and Kyle Denney 2. Ed Miller, Allan Wren and Joe Strickland 3. Dennis Lewis and Jean Magee 4. Mark Garner, Heather Keith and Dennis Washington 5. Jamie Bockman and Tyler Hilton 6. Jim McPhaul, Tim Wilson and Joe Crews 7. Josh Davis, Miranda Johnson and Jaclyn Gooding 8. Travis Greene, Logan McCormick, Kevin Perez and Stephen Collier 9. Charlie McMurphy, Lori Yates and Jill McMahon 10. Aaron Lewicki, Mike Johnson, Fay J Durrant, Chris Ross and George Dodson

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9/11 Anniversary Tribute

EVENT

WHERE

Texas A&M - Texarkana

WHEN

9/9/11

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1. Parachuter and American Flag 2. Gunnery Sgt. Richard Lee Hall in fore ground. Denny and Nancy Barth along with all the branches of the Military, Firemen, Police and First responders in back ground 3. Dr. C. B. Rathburn welcoming everyone 4. Replica of The Liberty Bell 5. Salute - Gunnery Sgt. Richard Lee Hall 6. Posting of the Colors - US Marine Corps Reserve Center 7. Twenty-One Gun Salute 8. Colonel Doyle Lassitter Commander, RRAD 9. Mayor, City of Texarkana, Ar. - Wayne Smith 10. Wreath of Remembrance - Pleasant Grove Elementary Kindergarten Class 11. Game Ball Dedication - Arkansas High School and Texas High School 3 12. Mayor, City of Texarkana, Tx. - Steve Mayo 13. TAPS - Gunnery Sgt. Richard Lee Hall 14. WWII Veteran and former POW - Officer Eugene Hodge 15. Joni Rikel and Adrianne Rathburn 16. Dr. Bix and Adrianne Rathburn 17. Justin White, James Bramlett and Frank Thomas 18. Cliff Guillot, Molly Teague, Maura Johnston, Jeff Sandford and Chris Ross 6. 19. Crista Thomas and Jon Purifoy 20. Eric and Erica Cain 21. Randall Jemison, Freddy Weathers, Greg Beck, Matthew and Jacque Butler 22. Denny and Nancy Barth along with all the branches of the Military, Firemen, Police and First responders stand ready to begin with opening ceremonies 23. Invocation by Major Gary O’Day Chaplain, TASD Air Force Jr. ROTC, and Dr. Bix Rathburn 24. Bag pipes being played at opening ceremonies 25. Denny and Nancy Barth and USMC Ssgt. Mike Deloach 26. Ringing of the Bell 27. Liberty-Eylau High School Choir behind wreaths for Victims of 9-11, US Armed Forces, 9-11 Firefighters, 9-11 Police Officers and 9-11 Medical Personnel - Wreaths courtesy of Sticks and Stones and Ruth Flowers 28. Flag of Honor 29. Honoring the Fallen - Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Veterans of the Armed Forces under the direction of Dr. Kent Kelso (far right) 30. Elementary Children waving flags 31. Craig Hicks and Michael Clark 32. Dorothy Morgan and Sarah Fricks

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by Vincent Senatore

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can’t think of a country that has done more for the world’s gastronomy than Italy. Even as children, our earliest recollection of great food would have been spaghetti, meatballs and Pizza. What little kid doesn’t love pizza? Where would the American mother be without cans of Chef Boyardee’s Spaghetti O’s, Raviolio’s, ABC’s 123’s and Lasagna? However, it’s not just about pizza and pasta.

Italians have brought a plethora of gourmet delights and wine to the American table. While it’s the tomato sauce that gets all of the glory, Italy has given us many different styles of rich sauces to drown our pastas, meats and fish. Let’s discuss the many different styles of sauces attached to Italy: There’s the creamy and rich Alfredo Sauce (excellent with Chardonnay) that could be found on pasta, chicken, shrimp, and pizza. There’s the Garlic and Olive oil sauce (Sauvignon Blanc would be really nice) that will adorn everything from fresh fish to Bruschetta to fresh Primavera Veggies and Pasta.

(Some of my greatest food memories were drizzled with my mothers Garlic and Oil Sauce or her White Clam Sauce, made with Garlic and oil.) Recently, the very herbal Pesto sauce (perfect with Pinot Grigio) has made a “’big splash” on pastas (hot and cold), breads, fresh fish, pork tenderloin and grilled Chicken breast.

Then there’s the “Boss,” Tomato Sauce. I don’t even know where to begin. So, here we go. There’s the sun-dried tomato with olive oil and herbs, the famous Marinara (plain tomatoes with herbs and spices that would be wonderful with a Chianti Classico), the “Fra Diavalo” (devil) sauce that is so aggressive that I’m actually scared to be in the same room with it (very hot and spicy, great with shrimp, scallops and scungilli). The Bolognese sauce is loaded with beef and pork (Barolo from Piemonte would do the trick). The famous

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Vodka sauce has taken America by storm with its silky soft texture and fresh herbal fragrance (Pinot Noir would be superb).

The pizza style tomato sauces are sweetened with basil and oregano while the zesty tomato sauces of southern Italy are rich with a blend of meats and spices (search for a jammy Merlot).

Hungry yet? Wait, I’m not done… I haven’t mentioned the cheeses or the wines! Where would the world be if we didn’t have Reggiano Parmigiano, Asiago, Mozzarella, Ricotta, Bel Paesa, or Gorgonzola?

Fuggetaboudit!!!

Add any blend of the aforementioned cheeses to a plate of pasta and there’s an explosion of flavor. Baked pasta dishes would be no different than a plate of macaroni with tomato sauce.

It’s the addition of Ricotta, Mozzarella and Parmesan that creates the balance and richness in all baked pastas.

Further, I can’t think of a single Italian dish that doesn’t benefit from a sprinkling of rich, aged Parmesan.

One of my favorite dishes (Bistecca Alla Pizzaiola) utilizes all of my favorite ingredients; sirloin steak, garlic, olive oil, rich tomato sauce, topped with fresh oregano, basil

and grated Romano or Parmesan cheeses (contact me for the recipe). Imagine all of these flavors smothering a delicious steak.

Add a side of Penne pasta or Rigatoni and a bottle of Barbera D’Asti, and you have created a “Festa Italiano”.

I hope, by now, I have made your mouth water. I know that I can’t wait to get my hands on a knife and a pan.

However, no great Italian meal can be a success without the “Dolce” (dessert).

Growing up in New Jersey with an

Italian family afforded me the pleasure of experiencing some of the greatest desserts ever created. I can still remember the Italian Pastries that we used to get from Brooklyn, NY. Every holiday my uncles would bring a huge box; loaded with Cannolis, Rum BaBa, Napoleons, Sfogliatella, and the wonderful Tiramisu (I wish we had a bottle of Moscato D’Asti with these). Add some Amaretto cookies and rich espresso to complete the meal.

“Mamma Mia,“ I certainly hope that I got your attention because all of the foods and desserts that I just mentioned would be just “OK” without the accompaniment of the Vino D’Italia (Italian Wine). Even in the days of Julius Caesar, the addition of wine to a meal was essential. Further, there were times when wine would have been the only beverage available. Only the rich had access to quality water and juices.

While the wines that we consume today are considerably superior to the wines of early Rome, they were not less important. The early Romans would add assorted herbs and spices so their wines would stand up the flavorful dishes of the time. Currently, Italy is one of the largest producers of commercial quality wines in the world. All twenty of Italy’s very different regions grow, produce and bottle estate wines worthy of high acclaim in any arena. Add the stringent rules of Italy’s DOC (Denominazione Di Origine Controllata) and the traditional wines of Italy are produced with the highest standards in the industry.

Today, many of Italy’s most well known wines are being held to an even higher standard. The DOCG (Denominazione Di Origine Controllata e’ Garantita) laws mandate the vineyard area, grape variety, yield per hectare, alcohol content, and a government taste test of the final wine, guaranteeing the consumer some of the highest quality wines in the industry. The numbered DOCG stamp can be found on some of Italy’s most important wines like Chianti, Moscato D’Asti, Barolo, Brunello di Montalcino and Prosecco Conegliano.

While there are thousands of different wines produced in Italy, only the better quality wine will make it to the American shelf. So, the next time you yen for nice Spaghetti and meatball dinner with a rich ragu style sauce, add a bottle of Nero D’Avola from Sicily and make it a “Festa Italiano!”

During the Month of October, every Friday evening from 4 - 7 pm, I am going to create some of my family’s favorite dishes right here in my store. From Gnocchi to Pasta Fagioli, Friday is Italian night! www.alt-mag.com

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EVENT

Beauty from Within Fall Fashion Show

WHERE

Trinity Baptist Church

WHEN

9/10/11

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1. Simply Stated - Karla Thomas 2. The Weathered Rooster - Brenda Reed and Teresa DeLoney 3. Thirty-One - Tiffany Flippen 4. Ladies and Lather - Vanessa Thompson and Angela Purifoy 5. Jewelry Designs by Robin Clem 6. Peggy Whisenhunt 7. Jewels by Park Lane and Scentsy - Marcy Colorigh and Carolyn Hughes 8. - 22. Fall Fashion show.

23. Johnnie Purifoy, Peggy Whisenhunt and Jan Beth 24. Patricia Turley, Vicki Wickliffe and Sarah Page 25. Beauti-Control - Sharon Jones 26. Joy Cary, Theresa Teer and Ruby Dildine 27. Vault Denim - Erin Gates and Dee Dee Jones 28. Dillards - Denice Hollier, Rachel Turney, Beverly Gray, Brittney Graham, David Thomas, Jon Standerfer and Lucretia Goodwin 29. Gena Vanderveer, Suzie Davis and Sandra Moore 30. Stacy James Mayo 31. - 39. Fall Fashion Show

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EVENT WHERE

Blood Drive

1. The Magnolia

The Magnolia

3. Emmanual Otero and Kaleshia Dudley

2. LifeShare Blood Centers 4. Karen Rayfield and Teri Jo Wisinger

WHEN

9/12/11

5. Terri Jo tries searches for a vein on Rafael Otero 6. Karen Rayfield and Jennifer Shipp 7. Antonio Otero and Rachel Green

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8. Snacks!

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FA L L 2 0 11

Speak Up. Speak Out. Save Lives.

A Commitment to ImprovingYour Quality of Life

The CHRISTUS St. Michael Rehabilitation Hospital is now the only facility in the region to receive the

Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)

Three-Year Accreditation for the Following Programs:

Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital Programs Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital Programs Adults and Adolescents (15 years and older)

Stroke Specialty Programs

Outpatient Medical Rehabilitation Programs Adults, Adolescents and Children (8 years and older)

Choose the Rehabilitation Hospital with The Most Accreditations, The Most Advanced Care

Choose Us.

FA L L 2 0 11 / c o n t e n t s

F E AT U R E S 35 Speak Up. Speak Out. Save Lives, She Does.

k / COVER

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20 Interesting Facts About The Human Body

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Understanding and Surviving

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A Tw i c e A s N i c e L i f e

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Kids for the Cure Art Presentation

HELPFUL INFO 54

Financial Focus

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A r k - L a - Te x R e s o u r c e G u i d e

Speak up...

Andra Ayers never dreamed when she left for a trip that her world would drastically change. This courageous woman wants YOU to know what to do when you are traveling to be safe!

Understanding and Surviving Mary Miller’s breast cancer diagnosis made her more aware of her own body. “Our bodies speak to us if we will listen, and this is an important part of my personal story.”

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

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Photography / Image Forward Photography, Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson, Rozana Page Sales & Marketing Manager / Charlie McMurphy Feature Writers / Jane Bouterse, Anne Fruge

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

©2011 ALT Magazine

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A Cure. First.

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by Jane Bouterse

S

he carefully closed the lid of her overstuffed luggage without realizing that she was also closing a significant chapter in her life. After today, nothing about her would ever be quite the same again. “Tommie,” she called to her husband , “Please put this bag in the car for me before you leave?” He interrupted his preparations for work to obligingly comply.

Once her packing was completed, the meticulous Andra straightened the house a bit until it was time for both of the Ayers to say their good-byes and go to their respective jobs: she to Cossatot Community College, University of Arkansas, Human Resources; he, to Weyerhauser, accounting. This was a daily routine familiar and important to Tommie and Andra Ayers. Even as they departed, the world which surrounded their comfortable DeQueen, Arkansas, home on this August 4, 1999, appeared unchanged from the day before and the day before that.

Today, however, Andra was anticipating the opportunity her day promised. She and a colleague were headed to Memphis, Tennessee, www.alt-mag.com

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for a meeting about community college insurance programs. The drive to Memphis was only some 305 miles—long enough but not too long. The scenery was beautiful.

DeQueen and Sevier County boasted three 1,000 acre plus Army Corps of Engineers lakes—DeQueen, Dierks and Gilham, and nearby was not only the Ouachita National Forest but also the Pond Creek National Wildlife Refuge. Completing this idyllic setting was the swiftly flowing Cossatot River close at hand—lots of water, rolling hills and verdant forests which could be enjoyed almost all the way to Memphis.

The trip to Memphis provided a variety of scenes from forest greenery to the browns of flat farmland but proved as untroubled as she had imagined it would be. She arrived safely in Memphis, located the Peabody and checked in much earlier than others attending the conference. Andra decided to settle into her room and enjoy some of the luxury of the 1869 hotel’s recent renovation. She was assigned a fifth floor room but had to watch the famous Peabody ducks (1 Mallard drake and 4 hens) play in their Italian travertine marble fountain before heading toward the elevator.

“Be cautious. Remember a person does not have to look like a bum to be an assailant.”

To top it off, Andra could anticipate many pleasant miles of good conversation with her colleague as they traveled toward their destination, the legendary Peabody Hotel in downtown Memphis. The more she thought about the next few days, the more excited she became. However, her spirits were dampened by her arrival at the Cossatot Community College campus when she discovered her traveling companion was ill.

“That’s OK,” thought Andra. “I’ll still attend the meeting. I’ve traveled alone before and don’t mind at all.” So…into the car she gets and off she goes.

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Once situated in her room near the end of the hallway, Andra was so comfortable she decided not to leave until she had to. She ordered her dinner from Room Service and proceeded to do some unpacking. Shortly afterward, a knock at the door announced the arrival of her meal. After looking through the door’s peephole, Andra opened the door to a rather unpleasant hotel attendant, stranger to a smile or a pleasant word. The woman left the cart and departed. Although surprised at the employee’s demeanor, Andra did not allow the server’s irritable temperament to diminish her pleasure in the tasty meal.

The evening moved along smoothly for Andra until about 8:30 p.m. when there was an unexpected knock on the door. The knock not only startled her but aroused her suspicions immediately. Once more—to the door and the peephole. This time she was able to see a clean-cut, well groomed and smiling young man, perhaps between 18 and 20, dressed in very neat shorts and shirt and holding a vase of flowers. He confidently announced that he had been sent by the hotel to replace the flowers in her room.

Actually, Andra had not noticed whether there were flowers in her room, but for a hotel as accommodating to its guests as the Peabody, fresh flowers would have been in order. She paused for a moment, then stood by the door as she opened it and waited for the flowers to be brought into the room.

The young man entered through the wide open door, threw away the flowers and grabbed Andra in a choke hold from which she could not escape. She yelled as best she could, “Take my purse and money.” Then she passed out. The door was still open, but the young man had obviously chosen his victim carefully. He knew that Andra was the only occupant of the entire wing, and there were no security cameras. There was no one—nor would there be anyone in the hallway-- to help her.

“When I came to,“ she explains, “I was on my back on the floor, and there was extreme pressure on my face with

something. I don’t know what. I remember shouting, ‘In the name of Jesus. In the name of Jesus. In the name of Jesus.’ –three times, then I passed out again.”

Andra never had any idea of how long she was unconscious, but when she came to this time, the room was different. She was still on the floor and could hardly see.

Everything that was visible to her blood filled eyes was covered in blood. Her assailant was gone. She knew she had to get to a phone, but she could not get up, so she crawled. When she reached the bedside table, she pulled herself up in the direction of the phone. Moving had not helped her any. She still could not see, and blood was everywhere. “I just started hitting numbers on the phone.” Miraculously, someone on the front desk answered . “I somehow got out ‘I need help’ so that the desk clerk could hear me, then I passed out again.”

When Andra awakened, she realized she was surrounded by hotel employees trying to attend her until the EMS personnel arrived. She was immediately

taken to the hospital and the Trauma ICU and tested for rape. When her assailant had entered the room, Andra was still wearing her travel clothes. The intruder had managed during the periods of her blacking out to get her panty hose and panties pulled halfway down her legs. The rape kit proved that the young man apparently had been interrupted before he was able to realize his intentions.

The sexual assault was attempted but not successful.

In the meantime, Trauma doctors had summoned Andra’s husband Tommie to Memphis. The doctors had only told him Andra had been in an accident; he had no idea what had actually happened to her. When he arrived, as was also the case with other members of the family from all over the country, none of them recognized the bloody, battered and bruised Andra that they found in the Trauma ICU. The most severe injuries had been to her face, which appeared to have been hit repeatedly with a blunt object like a fist or perhaps the vase that had held the flowers.

Doctors had determined that her nose was broken; she had suffered an orbital blowout which damaged her eye socket and eye, and she was bruised down to her waist.

Nonetheless, the family was grateful that

her physical injuries were repairable. The psychological damage would also have to be dealt with, but they knew Andra was strong in spirit and in faith. For days, Andra was in and out of consciousness, although she does remember the police asking her questions.

When it was time for Andra to leave the hospital, Tommie’s employer Weyerhauser provided their corporate jet to bring her home. Their thoughtful generosity made her difficult trip much more safe and comfortable. After the Ayers returned home, they began to take inventory.  The assailant had taken her jewelry—her wedding set, a diamond ring and a gold bracelet. He had dumped the contents of her purse, but he had not taken any money.  Later, their telephone bill indicated that Tommie had called Andra just to be sure she was okay during the time the assailant was in the room.

They guessed he may have been scared away by the ringing phone.  Police believed the intruder may not have finished what he had started because he thought she was dead.  Pictures of the room revealed a bloody pillow on the floor where Andra had been lying. At some

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point, the pillow appears to have been used in an attempt to smother her.  The beating she sustained was brutal, as the walls of the room were splashed with blood—Andra’s blood.

Many who saw the splattered room commented, “You must have put up a fight!”

Although the girl who delivered Room Service was questioned several times without success, there were no other suspects. For several months after the incident, Memphis Police sent Andra pictures of possible assailants, but she was never able to identify her attacker. Today, as far as she and Tommie know, he remains free.

The year after the assault, 2000, Andra spent in and out of hospitals with the three surgeries required to repair her injuries.

The progress of medicine in skilled hands made it possible to repair her broken nose and to use a Teflon plate to repair the orbit of her eye. Dr. Trone in Texarkana performed those surgeries. In Dallas, Dr. Steve Byrd, a surgeon specializing in reconstructive, aesthetic and craniofacial surgery, used sea coral to rebuild the portion of her face just below her eye’s orbit. Andra continues to suffer from double vision with an extreme upward gaze, so she has learned to move her head rather than her eyes. The right side of her face and lip are still numb, but the rest

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of her injuries Mother Nature has repaired.

Her physical injuries are not visible, neither are her psychological. But they are there.

John Hayes, a Psychiatric Family Nurse Practitioner in Mobile, AL is familiar with trauma, as he has worked with trauma patients in emergency facilities, hospitals and out patient situations. The first point he makes is that responses to trauma are as different as the people who experience it.

He emphasizes, also, that people may have immediate responses and/or responses which recur or arise years after the traumatic event has occurred. General reactions may include: depression, anxiety, hypervigilance, a sense of loss of safety and lack of sleep.

There may be physical numbness or a sense of detachment, or an avoidance of places that remind the woman of the assault.

Hayes reports that according to recent studies, people do tend to either address and acknowledge what has happened or not focus on the trauma at all.

Andra Ayers is amazing for a number of reasons. First, within a week or two of her coming home from the hospital, she wanted to get back to work. She wanted to be around people, and “I knew the sooner I got back, the better. My colleagues were very sympathetic, and everyone was supportive of me. ‘Wonderful, wonderful place to work.’”

In addition, Edie Barentine, a counselor at Cossatot Community College,

University of Arkansas introduced Andra to a video presentation called “Traveling Alone in America.” Barentine also was “there” for Andra when she endured the inevitable “dips” in her days.

Andra is also a woman of faith.

Her church family prayed for her during her convalescence and throughout her ordeal.

“I never even dreamed about the assault,” Andra observes. “There was one lady in our congregation who prayed specifically that I would not dream about it.”

Within a year of her assault, she was asked by a church in neighboring Dierks to tell other women about her experience.

According to RAINN (RAPE, ABUSE AND INCEST NATIONAL NETWORK): 1 out of every 6 American women has been the victim of an attempted or completed rape in her lifetime (14.8% completed rape: 2.8% attempted rape) 17.7 million American women have been victims of attempted or completed rape.

Andra complied with their request by telling the women of her experience, sharing the video that had meant so much to her, and allowing ample time for comments, questions and answers. In addition, she provided them with handouts about “Traveling Alone in America” and “50 Tips for Traveling Alone.”

[NOTE: See the Tips for Women Sidebar on

page 44 for a sampling].

Andra admits that her world was changed on that August 4, 1999, day—NEVER to be the same again. She still feels: •

Fearful of being in elevators or small spaces with strangers.

•

Nervous about getting started when she goes walking. “I try to figure out a place to run.”

•

Uncomfortable about being alone in some spaces; OK in other spaces.

•

Afraid of being stranded and what to do.

•

Very sensitive to her environment.

The consequences of Andra’s experience have affected her family as well. “All of my family have CHLs (Concealed Handgun Licenses),” she admits, “but I don’t want one.”

The Ayers’ daughter Erica, who was 27 when her mother was assaulted, has reacted more obviously than her mother.

“She is very cautious and not trusting of strangers. We met at the mall the other day, and Erica looked around at the cars in the area where we parked. Some of them were occupied. ‘Don’t park here, Mom. Let’s park somewhere else.’”

Now, Andra never stays in hotels alone. Even when her husband is with her, she props a chair under the doorknob, uses a rubber stopper under the door, and attaches her personal protection alarm to the doorknob. If the doorknob is moved, the alarm sounds. These measures are in addition to the hotel’s double bolt locks and peepholes.

She also emphasizes to the women (and occasionally men) to whom she speaks to walk with confidence. “Don’t look like a victim,” she urges. “Be cautious. Remember a person does not have to look like a bum to be an assailant.”

For over ten years, Andra Ayers has been speaking up and speaking out in her presentations—a courageous act even now.

If you are interested in a presentation to your group, Andra may be contacted at 903-2237447. Her courage and determination have turned her life changing experience into a life saving experience for those who listen.

Sexual assault is real and really destructive.

Women must protect themselves with as much knowledge as possible.

There are so many websites which offer information about sexual assaults and their consequences. Two of the most useful are provided by the U. S. Departments of Veterans Affairs and Health and Human Services.

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Tips for Women Traveling Alone “It’s a sad fact of life that a woman traveling alone faces more danger than a man. To fight the fear, the Women’s Travel Club—founded in 1992 by Phyllis Stoller—posts its members’ tips on the club’s Web Site:” www.womenstravelclub.com. Or call 800/4804448 or 305/936-9669. Their tips include the following:

away from renovation work, emergency exits or terraces. Have your room key ready when you leave the elevator. Be sure you are not alone on your wing.

•

CHOOSING A HOTEL  Smaller is smarter: you want the staff to be familiar with guests and with you.  Aim for a well-trafficked street (neighborhood restaurants and late-night stores mean traffic).  A reception and concierge desk near the entrance, and/or the elevators, provides deterrence.  Guests checking in should have privacy. No one should be able to overhear personal information.  Look for well lighted parking lots and check the availability of valet parking  Be sure the hotel has attendants to walk you to your room late at night.

ROOM RULES • Request a room near the elevators and

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The door should have double locks—one of which is a dead bolt—and a peephole.

BRING along a rubber doorstop for extra security. Consider a portable door alarm for added security.

•

Verify any strangers knocking on the hotel room door with the front desk.

•

The DO NOT DISTURB sign can make the room seem occupied. Call housekeeping for cleaning.

•

Stand near the elevator buttons with your back to the wall; if threatened, push all the buttons

STREET SMARTS o Dress down. Have money divided into small denominations. o Study a map before going out; use a small guidebook. Do not look like a tourist. o Use prepaid phone cards instead of carrying your card number.

o Carry just one credit card and photocopies of important documents o On sidewalks, keep your handbag away from the street side (on escalators, the opposite ramp) o If attacked, yell as loud as possible.

TRANSPORTATION SAVVY  Use covered luggage tags. Instead of home address, write office address.  In public restrooms, use the corner stall.  Exit a taxi only after you have reached your destination. Pay while still in the car  Put your foot through the strap of any luggage or handbag placed on the floor in a public place.  In your car, keep items out of sight (especially maps and guidebooks)  When possible, park so you won’t have to back out. It makes for a speedier departure.  Once inside your vehicle, lock all doors immediately. Keep doors locked while driving.

Brain 1. The human brain cell can hold 5 times as much information as the Encyclopedia Britannica. Or any other encyclopedia for that matter. Scientists have yet to settle on a definitive amount, but the storage capacity of the brain in electronic terms is thought to be between 3 or even 1,000 terabytes.

The National Archives of Britain, containing over 900 years of history, only takes up 70 terabytes, making your brain’s memory power pretty darn impressive.

2. The brain itself cannot feel pain. While the brain might be the pain center when you cut your finger or burn yourself, the brain itself does not have pain receptors and cannot feel pain. That doesn’t mean your head can’t hurt. The brain is surrounded by loads of tissues, nerves and blood vessels that are plenty receptive to pain and can give you a pounding headache.

dissolving the pizza you had for dinner but can also eat through many types of metal.

Bodily Functions 1. Women blink twice as many times as men do.

That’s a lot of blinking every day. The average person, man or woman, blinks about 13 times a minute.

2. During your lifetime, you will produce enough saliva to fill two swimming pools. Saliva plays an important part in beginning the digestive process and keeping the mouth lubricated, and your mouth produces quite a bit of it on a daily basis.

Senses

Hair and Nails

1. After eating too much, your hearing is less sharp. If you’re heading to a concert or a musical after a big meal you may be doing yourself a disservice. Try eating a smaller meal if you need to keep your hearing pitch perfect.

1. One human hair can support 3.5 ounces. That’s about the weight of two full size candy bars, and with hundreds of thousands of hairs on the human head, makes the tale of Rapunzel much more plausible.

2. If saliva cannot dissolve something, you cannot taste it. In order for foods, or anything else, to have a taste, chemicals from the substance must be dissolved by saliva. If you don’t believe it, try drying off your tongue before tasting something.

2. The fastest growing nail is on the middle finger. And the nail on the middle finger of your dominant hand will grow the fastest of all. Why is not entirely known, but nail growth is related to the length of the finger, with the longest fingers growing nails the fastest and shortest the slowest.

Aging and Death

Internal Organs 1. The surface area of a human lung is equal to a tennis court. In order to more efficiently oxygenate the blood, the lungs are filled with thousands of branching bronchi and tiny, grapelike alveoli. These are filled with microscopic capillaries which oxygen and carbon dioxide. The large amount of surface area makes it easier for this exchange to take place, and makes sure you stay properly oxygenated at all times.

2. The acid in your stomach is strong enough to dissolve razorblades. While you certainly shouldn’t test the fortitude of your stomach by eating a razorblade or any other metal object for that matter, the acids that digest the food you eat aren’t to be taken lightly. Hydrochloric acid, the type found in your stomach, is not only good at

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1. Your eyes are always the same size from birth but your nose and ears never stop growing. When babies look up at you with those big eyes, they’re the same size that they’ll be carrying around in their bodies for the rest of their lives. Their ears and nose, however, will grow throughout their lives and research has shown that growth peaks in seven year cycles.

2. Nails and hair do not continue to grow after we die. They do appear longer when we die, however, as the skin dehydrates and pulls back from the nail beds and scalp.

Disease and Injury 1. Monday is the day of the week when the risk of heart attack is greatest. Yet another reason to loathe Mondays! A ten year study in Scotland found that 20% more people die of heart attacks on Mondays than any other day of the week.

Researchers theorize that it’s a combination of too much fun over the weekend with the stress of going back to work that causes the increase.

2. A simple, moderately severe sunburn damages the blood vessels extensively. How extensively?

Studies have shown that it can take four to fifteen months for them to return to their normal condition. Consider that the next time you’re feeling too lazy to apply sunscreen before heading outside.

Muscles and Bones 1. You use 200 muscles to take one step.

Depending on how you divide up muscle groups, just to take a single step you use somewhere in the neighborhood of 200 muscles. That’s a lot of work for the muscles considering most of us take about 10,000 steps a day.

2. The feet account for one quarter of all the human body’s bones. You may not give your feet much thought but they are home to more bones than any other part of your body. How many? Of the two hundred or so bones in the body, the feet contain a whopping 52 of them.

Microscopic Level 1. About 32 million bacteria call every inch of your skin home. Germaphobes don’t need to worry however, as a majority of these are entirely harmless and some are even helpful in maintaining a healthy body.

2. Your body has enough iron in it to make a nail 3 inches long. Anyone who has ever tasted blood knows that it has a slightly metallic taste. This is due to the high levels of iron in the blood. If you were to take all of this iron out of the body, you’d have enough to make a small nail and very severe anemia.

Miscellaneous 1. The colder the room you sleep in, the better the chances are that you’ll have a bad dream. It isn’t entirely clear to scientists why this is the case, but if you are opposed to having nightmares you might want to keep yourself a little toastier at night.

2. Your body gives off enough heat in 30 minutes to bring half a gallon of water to a boil. If you’ve seen the Matrix you are aware of the energy potentially generated by the human body. Our bodies expend a large amount of calories keeping us at a steady 98.6 degrees, enough to boil water or even cook pasta.

Enjoy Football Season With Oak Creek! *Luxury cloth and leather couches! *Entertainment centers for that big screen TV! *Wonderful snack foods including Gluten Free! *Dining sets and Lazy Susans to set up the ultimate game-day feast!

Why is Oak Creek Furniture Different?

Why all the fuss about details?

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.

Because the Amish craftsmen build furniture that your children and grandchildren will be proud to inherit. Come see our Amish-built bedroom furniture and oak dining room furniture.

The selection of the boards and the grade of the hard wood, along with dovetailed drawers, mortise-and-tenon construction and the multi-step finish are all just small parts of the build process that add up to an heirloom quality piece of oak or cherry furniture.

Come see our new E X PA N D E D S H O W R O O M !

Great selection to choose from!

Lasting elegance...

Did you know...

There is no better place to sit for a meal than around Amish dining room furniture. Amish dining room furniture is made for a family to sit around and enjoy not just the meal, but each other’s company, as well.

All of our dining room furniture is sturdy and durable - your family and future generations of your family will be able to sit at and around our dining room furniture for years to come.

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

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

Polywood Outdoor Furniture...

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

For this reason, our polywood lawn furniture is considered a green product.

There is no maintenance required, no cracking or splinting, and the polywood material does not promote bacterial growth or mildew. Choose from seven different colors and products such as swings, gliders, benches, deck chairs, table & chair sets, bridges and footrests.

Huge Se le of Glute ction n Free Foods!

Check it out toda y!

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by Anne Fruge

M

ary Miller was on the search for a mission, a cause, a passion in her life.

However, the search took a drastic turn causing Mary to have to rely on faith.

“I was telling God what I wanted to do,” Mary says. “I was trying to explain to Him what I wanted to do in my church for Him, but He had something very different in mind.”

When Mary faced and beat breast cancer, she was already working in the CHRISTUS St. Michael’s Cancer Center. She was facilitating a group for breast cancer survivors and was serving as the Breast and Cervical Cancer Outreach Coordinator.

“What God had in mind for my mission was exactly where he placed me in my work,” Mary says. “I was very dedicated to it even before this happened to me personally. Now I know that this experience is something that God will use, and I hope my story inspires other women, whether they have cancer or not, to be their own advocate, to listen to their bodies, and hopefully we can save more lives.”

Mary is a licensed clinical social worker with a degree from Texarkana Women’s University and a master’s with advanced clinical hours from University of Texas in Arlington. Mary and her husband, John Miller, and their www.alt-mag.com

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four children moved from the Dallas area to Texarkana in 1991 after she was recruited for a local health care facility. Mary started working for St. Michael’s in 1998, and in St. Michael’s Cancer Center in 2000.

program is certainly a great example of the mission of the sisters of charity. One of Saint Michael’s goals is to reach out to the needs of the community, and we are able to do that through this program.”

“My job is so rewarding,” Mary says. “Cancer is not a death sentence anymore. We have a lot of success through treatment and a lot more options than ever before. Especially in our environment, we get to know our patients over periods of weeks and months, and we build strong relationships with family and patients. I’ve learned so much from them.”

Mary also helps with a breast health symposium which is in its third year at Texarkana College. The College partners with UAMS-AHEC SW and Komen to put on the symposium, and since Mary’s son, Gary Miller, is the Director of Community Outreach

screenings should start at age 35. She is also a strong proponent of self-checks.

“Our bodies speak to us if we will listen, and this is an important part of my personal story,” Mary says. “I tell women to check themselves every month at the same time of the month, and if they feel something that seems abnormal, get it checked out! We have to be an advocate for our own health.”

In addition to breast cancer patients, Mary also works with all cancer patients in the cancer center. As a social worker, she is concerned that the patients’ psyche-social needs are being met: How are they coping?

How is the family coping? Are they getting the information they need to make decisions? Are they able to communicate with the doctors? Are they in a safe environment? Do they need transportation for treatment? They also provide wigs, prosthetics and other cosmetic needs for cancer patients.

“Our bodies speak to us if we will listen, and this is an important part of my personal story.”

When she first started her job, she was asked to head the Breast and Cervical Cancer Outreach program.

They had a small grant from the Komen foundation at the time and were able to serve around 300 women in the first year. They were then named the grantee of the Texas Breast and Cervical Care Services grant which allowed them to provide more breast and cervical cancer screenings.

Through their efforts, they also increased their Komen grant and were able to serve over 900 women last year.

“We spend a lot of time in the community doing educational programs,” Mary says.

“We try to educate women on the importance of screenings and keeping up with their appointments. Early detection and treatment is the key to survival. Plus, the outreach

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at AHEC, she is able to work with him on the event.

“It has been so great to plan and work with him since this is such a great passion for me,” Mary says. “It’s been great to share that with him, and it’s great to spread the message in our community on the importance of annual checkups and mammograms.”

Mary says that most women do not realize that they should start having annual mammograms at age 40, but with a strong family history of breast cancer, these

“Through this whole traumatic process, we want our patients to feel good about themselves,” Mary says. “As counselors, we are looking at the whole person in their environment and how they are intertwined, and I feel that St. Michael’s does a great job of trying to meet our patients’ needs as they face a hard time in their lives.”

Mary practices what she preaches and had

been very consistent with her exams and mammograms when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. In August of 2009, Mary had an annual mammogram and it came back negative. However, during a routine selfcheck, Mary discovered some tenderness in her breast in October of that same year.

She knew that she shouldn’t ignore it, so she called the doctor and asked for an ultrasound.

“All of us, the doctors and my family are thinking, ‘This is just a fluke! She just had a mammogram,’” Mary says. “However the ultra sound showed a shadow.”

In December, Mary had a biopsy and the results showed a mammary ductal carcinoma. It had spread and was in her lymphnodes as well. Mary had surgery in January and Dr. Dennis O’Bannon “thoroughly and diligently” got all the areas that needed to be addressed.

“I feel like my recovery started from the moment I had the surgery,” Mary says. “I had a great surgeon in Dr. Dennis O’Bannion, right here in Texarkana, and a lot of people think that they have to go to Dallas or Shreveport to get the same wonderful services that we have here.”

In late March, Mary started chemotherapy with Dr. J.D. Patel, a medical oncologist at St. Michael’s. Knowing that she was going to lose all her hair, her husband offered to shave it for her.

getting breast cancer to get closer to them.

She made sure and set them straight with, “I didn’t want to get that close!”

“Being diagnosed really took me aback,” Mary says. “I had been so diligent and stayed on top of everything. I had to step back and say, ‘Ok God, what is the purpose in this? What do you want me to do with this?’ Now I tell women all across our area to be a self-advocate. Many women would have just excused what I found in my self-exam, but you have to be diligent and ask for what you need.”

Through the process, Mary found strength in her faith, the support of her co-workers, the love of her children and ten grandchildren, her church and red hat sisters. On her last visit in June 2010, Dr. Engstrom ordered a pet-scan and it came back negative. Since then, Mary does a battery of blood tests to check for tumor markers and continues to do self-checks.

“Facing a life-threatening illness changes you,” Mary says. “I knew that from my work with cancer patients, but didn’t truly understand until I faced it myself. My priorities changed. My world view changed.

Now, I don’t just plan for the future, I live for every day and try to enjoy every day. I try to live by faith. The entire experience was a journey in faith, and I hope the story of my journey helps and inspires others.”

“I wanted to make it through Easter with my own hair,” Mary says. “But the Monday after Easter, my husband shaved it for me and it was hilarious. He would NOT let me cry and we ended up laughing the whole time. I had a wig for a while, but eventually invested in some large hoop earrings and a cap. I finally realized what a lot of people in the breast cancer support group at St. Michael’s were talking about. Sometimes the extra effort, getting out of bed and putting on make-up, finding a wig you love or getting dressed when you don’t feel like it, can make all the difference.”

When Dr. Patel went on sabbatical, Dr. Gary Engstrom finished her chemotherapy treatments and then she started radiation with Dr. Howard Morris at St. Michael’s.

“I found it a great comfort that I was already familiar with all the doctors and the surroundings,” Mary says. “I had faith and confidence because I know I was getting the best care available. I knew that I didn’t have to leave the support of my church, family, friends and co-workers to get high quality treatment, and the staff really stood behind me. I would go from being a patient to working there from one day to the next, and they were all positive and uplifting.”

The first time Mary facilitated the next support group meeting after her surgery, the women there jokingly accused Mary of www.alt-mag.com

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by Jane Bouterse

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“Miracles for Meredith” appeared in the April 2008 ALT and tells a remarkable story. The article begins:

“How can balloons, wooden angels poised for flight, Disneyworld, a black Pomeranian and dual DNA be intertwined? Connections are no problem for 13 year old Meredith Victoria Purtle, now a 7th grader at Queen City Middle School in Queen City, Texas. Meredith’s journey to this significant time in her life has included more challenges than most people ever have to experience. However, with the devoted care of her mom, Pam; dad, Jeff and brother, Garrett— with whom she occasionally argues—Meredith is anticipating the dates and dances, concerts and conversations any teenager so values.”

Meredith’s challenges began at age two and a half when this usually active child became listless and began running high fever. Repeated lab tests revealed she had “..spiked high temperature and pneumonia in her lung’s upper left lobe. Both her spleen and liver were enlarged; platelets were low, white blood count was high. She also had tiny red spots—Petechiae—all over her body, a sign of low platelet count and bruising.” The diagnosis was acute lymphocytic leukemia, ALL [cancer of the white blood cells], a disease with an 85% cure rate when treated immediately. No time was wasted. The Purtle Family began what would become an all-too-familiar journey to Arkansas Children’s Hospital in Little Rock. Meredith’s oncologist explained to the stunned parents that chemotherapy for two and one-half years was the basic prescription, lumbar punctures and bone marrow aspirations were also required along with hospital visits of various lengths.

“But Meredith and her family made it through the years of treatment and rejoiced when the doctors pronounced the leukemia in remission. A now 5 year old Meredith was able to get on with her life.

For 18 months, the family celebrated;

however, in April 2001, the cancer returned.

Another 2 1/2 years of chemotherapy followed—this time stronger with more noticeable effects. Treatments end, and doctors pronounce Meredith a healthy 7 year old. Thanksgiving, November 2004, Meredith’s check-up had to be completed before the family’s anticipated camping trip. “Something is just not right,” doctors declared. Ultimately, the determination was that a bone marrow transplant was the only alternative to treat the now active cancer. When no bone marrow match

first birthday and can be easily identified; her blood DNA is the DNA of her second— stem cell—birthday and is not traceable.”

September 13, 2011, Meredith celebrated her 17th birthday. Now a junior in Queen City High School, she continues to experience twice as nice moments. For example, her academic achievements have earned her membership in the National Junior Honor Society and the National Honor Society. Her special friends Tristen and Isabella (Izzy) join her in sleepovers peppered by lots of conversations and

toddlers in Calvary Tabernacle’s nursery.

Chloe, her black Pomeranian, still depends on Meredith and has inspired her to join the school’s FFA chapter to be more involved with animals. Physical therapist for animals or veterinarian loom large in the goals she has set for herself. Somehow she still manages to find time for Chris and those dates she dreamed of having.

Meredith Purtle is living her life—a life she and her family have fought for with courage and determination, medical science and knowledgeable caretakers, prayer and

Meredith Purtle is living her life—a life she and her family have fought for with courage and determination, medical science and knowledgeable caretakers, prayer and faith, plus a little bit of miracle. could be found for Meredith, the Purtles hastily packed their bags—this time headed for Methodist Children’s Hospital in San Antonio, Texas, and their last alternative—a stem cell transplant. This was November; they had until February to find a match.

A perfect stem cell transplant matches recipient and donor in six ways, but a cord will work if the ratio is 6:4. In January, the brutal treatment for the stem cell transplant began. On March 22, 2005, the umbilical cord from a healthy HispanicCaucasian baby was found to be a 6:4 match for Meredith. The match was found just one day before the expiration date of the cord’s usefulness. In 20 minutes, the red cells were infused into the prepared Meredith, and the tortuous waiting began.

Three weeks into the post treatment, Meredith developed Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and had to be placed in Pediatric ICU. Nothing the post treatment team did was working, so Pam contacted their Calvary Tabernacle Church for prayers. Church members, just as they had throughout Meredith’s eight years + battle, rallied. By Saturday morning, the doctors were in awe, “We don’t understand this.

She’s getting better and better.” In a week, Meredith was walking and back in her original unit.

Meredith’s earlier than anticipated return home was welcomed, but for months her compromised immune system required that she be protected from possible infections. The entire school year had been lost, but San Antonio and Queen City teachers had closed the gap. In 2006, one year after her transplant, Meredith got to be “normal.” The 13 years of her life had been filled with more crises, doctors, medicines, and hospitals than most people know in a lifetime, but she still easily shared her shy, beautiful smile and shrugged as though “it’s all in a day’s work.”

Meredith is unique in several ways.

She celebrates two birthdays every year: September 13 is her biological birthday; March 22, the birth provided by her transplant. Her life is marked by a before stem cells period and a twice as nice after stem cells. Meredith has dual DNAs: the DNA in her saliva will be the DNA from her

games like Twister and Bop-It. These three quieter girls have laughter and surprise added to their get-togethers made twice as nice by an adventurous, unpredictable Kristen.

Meredith has no time these days to remember the pain of the past. Her Nissan chariot takes her wherever she wishes to drive, and that’s most often to school for band practice. She plays trumpet in the Queen City HS Band, a two time State Champion, now working toward their third victory, while she also performs with the school’s Color Guard. Sandwiched between her eight classes, she works as an office aid, and every other Sunday cares for the

faith plus a little bit of miracle. “Miracles for Meredith” continue to happen for this beautiful brown eyed ash blonde with the slightly tanned look now a healthy 5 feet 3 inches tall. She carries her 119 pounds with confidence and continues to smile—a stunning reminder of the power of family, friends and faith in both a Spiritual Power and medical science. Meredith’s life is at least twice as nice as she and her family ever hoped it could be!

To keep track of Meredith and her family, visit: www.caringbridge.org/visit/meredithpurtle

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Kids for the Cure Art Presentation

1. Members from the 2011 Race committee 2. Tonya Davis and Terrie Arnold 3. Pam Beck, Julie Sanderson and DeAnn Goings 4. LeAnne Wright, Tonya Davis, Linley Murdock and Christy Walls 5. Laurie Hearn, Stephanie Murdock, Linley Murdock and Brad Murdock 6. Linley Murdock with TMS Art Teacher Shea Phillips

EVENT

WHERE

Texas Middle School

WHEN

9/2/11

2

1

3

4

5

6

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by Dustin Stringer Stringer Wealth Management LPL Financial www.stringerwealthmanagement.net

Proper Financial Planning: Critical for Women

A

key goal of investing for retirement is making sure you save enough to make your money last throughout your lifetime.

On this score, women may need to save more than men.

The current life expectancy of a female at birth is almost 81 years, compared with 75 years for a male.1 Although six years may not appear significant, many people in this age group incur expenses for health care and other items while living off of Social Security and personal assets.

Keep in mind that life expectancy statistics are averages and many people live much longer. It is not unusual for an individual’s retirement to last 20 or 30 years or more. There is also the issue of the length of a person’s career and how much time an individual has to build retirement assets. Many women take time off for care giving responsibilities, and during these years they may not add to their retirement portfolio.

In addition, time off from work may affect Social Security benefits because those who are not working do not earn credits that are used to determine retirement benefits. Also, parents, children, and other loved ones often have financial needs, and both women and men may provide help for family members, which may divert funds from retirement savings.

Estimating How Much You’ll Need Of course, every woman’s life is unique and many women capitalize on the benefits available to them, including participating in an employer-sponsored retirement plan or funding an IRA, to build the assets needed for their later years. It’s important not to underestimate how much you may need or the importance of ongoing contributions to retirement accounts to build assets over time. Although there are no guarantees, the longer you stay invested, the more likely that your contributions may benefit from compounding, when investment gains are reinvested and potentially earn even more over time.

Your financial advisor can help you calculate how much you are likely to need for your later years. Be sure to consider how you will pay for health care expenses not covered by Medicare or other medical insurance. When considering sources of retirement income, log on to www.ssa.gov or review your annual statement to estimate your retirement benefit from Social Security. If you find that your retirement assets are coming up

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short, delaying retirement or saving more while you continue to work may be helpful strategies.

Source: Center for Disease Control, National Center for Health Statistics.

Because of the possibility of human or mechanical error by Financial Communications or its sources, neither Financial Communications nor its sources guarantees the accuracy, adequacy, completeness or availability of any information and is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of such information. In no event shall Financial Communications be liable for any indirect, special or consequential damages in connection with subscriber’s or others’ use of the content. © 2011 McGraw-Hill Financial Communications. All rights reserved.

This article is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for and individual. Consult your financial advisor, or me, if you have any questions. Stringer Wealth Management and LPL Financial are not estate planners and cannot provide tax or legal advice.

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Ark-La-Tex Resource

Guide

Air and Heating Central Air 450 S. Kings Highway Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.1212

Gayle’s 4059 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0056

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

1615 N. Hervey Hope, AR 124 N. Loop Highway 59 Atlanta, TX

Kraus Heating and Air 200 Industrial Blvd.

Nash, TX 903.831.3912

Banks Guaranty Bond Bank 2202 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.792.8600

Reception Arts Becky Risinger Ashdown, AR 870.898.5273

Apartments Legacy at Pleasant Grove 5911 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 888.763.2676

Red River Federal Credit Union 2700A University Ave. Texarkana, TX 75503 903-735-3000 800-822-3317

Wingstop 2700 Richmond Road, Suite 14A1 Texarkana, TX 903.255.0090 4501 N. State Line, No. 106 Texarkana, TX 903.792.9464

Richmond Oaks Apartments 2815 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.832.6150

Texar Federal Credit Union Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.223.5626

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

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

Caterers Culinary Creations Pam Elliott 903.831.4674 Fuzzy’s Tacos 4809 Texas Blvd.

Texarkana, TX 903.791.8226

Clothing Abby Gayle’s 4012 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0088

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

Gayle’s 4059 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0056

Smokey Joe’s BBQ 300 W. New Boston Road Nash, TX 903.223.8227

Dry Cleaning Holiday Cleaners Locations throughout Texarkana Area 870.773.4072

Wendy’s 4201 Stateline Avenue Texarkana, TX 2902 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 3737 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX

Event Locations Prissy Chrissy Ranch 915 FM 2148 South Texarkana, TX 75501 903.838.6121 www.prissychrissy.com

Regional Arts Center Cabe Hall 321 W. 4th Street Texarkana, TX 75501 903.792.8681 www.trahc.org Financial Planner Dustin Stringer Stringer Wealth Management 210 N. Stateline, Suite 204A Texarkana, AR 870.216.0089 Fitness Centers Anytime Fitness Richmond Road 3415 Richmond Road.

Texarkana, TX 75503 903.794.5348 Minton’s Sportsplex 5610 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 903.838.4697 Florists Queen City Floral Highway 59 North Queen City, TX 903.796.2891 Ruth’s Flowers 3501 Texas Bllvd.

Texarkana, TX 903.793.6711 www.ruthsflowers.net Twisted Vines 406 N. Stateline Avenue Texarkana, AR 870-772-2700 Furniture Oak Creek Furniture 8024 West 7th St. Texarkana, TX 903.832.0793

Style Studio Lisa Harris 3201 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.1719 Home Designs/Remodeling Taylored Home Solutions 2840 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.278.2353 Hospice Dierksen Hospice 6500 N. Summerhill Road, Suite 2B Texarkana, TX 903.793.6350 Hospitals Christus St. Michael Health System 2600 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.614.1000 Health South Rehabilitation 515 West 12th St. Texarkana, TX 903.793.0088 Wadley Hospital 1000 Pine St. Texarkana, TX 903.798.8000 Hotels Clarion Lacross Hotel 5100 N. Stateline Ave. Texarkana, AR 870.774.3521 www.lacrosse-hotel.com Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott 4209 Mall Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.838.1000

Insurance Brian Purtle Allstate Insurance 3301 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.832.5881 Elite Insurance Tammy McDowell 1705 N. Kings Highway Nash, TX 903.794.0000 Farm Bureau Insurance 4140 McKnight Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.838.8707

Jewelers Alexander’s Jewelers 3701 Mall Drive Texarkana, TX 903.832.3557 Blue Isle Expressions 3402 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 903.791.9992 Micah’s Jewelers 2812 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 903.735.2336

Greg Cockerell State Farm Insurance 4807 Texas Blvd.

Texarkana, TX 75503 903.793.7502 Kelli Ashbrook State Farm Insurance 3410 Moores Lane Texarkana, TX 75503 903.223.8100 www.kelliashbrook.com Kristi Smith State Farm Insurance 418 Walton Drive Texarkana, TX 903.223.3276 Ron Morrow State Farm Insurance 3306 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 75503 903.832.5505 www.ronmorrowagency. com

Gifts Dot’s Ace Hardware 3411 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.838.0059 Lane’s Gifts & Collectibles 720 Realtor Ave. Texarkana, AR 870.773.2123 Queen City Floral Highway 59 North Queen City, TX 903.796.2891 Twisted Vines 406 N. Stateline Avenue Texarkana, AR 870-772-2700 Guns and Ammunition P&J Guns Jeff and Pam Cliften 248 E. New Boston Rd. Nash, TX 75569 903.293.4867 Hair Care Headmasters Hair Salon 3703 Mall Drive Texarkana, TX 903.832.6261

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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 Sanctuary Kimberly Parham, M.D. 3502 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.334.8661 Medical Equipment Respiratory Solutions 3101 Kennedy Lane, Suite 1000 Texarkana, TX 75503 903.793.2110 Photographer Image Forward Photography 200 Heather Dr. Texarkana, TX 75501 903.334.9605 www.imageforwardtxk.com Physicians Express Care 5483 Summerhill Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.223.5931

Ly Gaylor, M.D. Dermatologist Collom & Carney Clinic 5002 Cowhorn Creek Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.614.3006

Connie Walker Coldwell Banker United 3001 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 903.277.0100 903.832.2486

Trevor Swanson, D.C. Advanced Spine, Sports & Rehab 4206 Richmond Place Texarkana, TX 903.792.2060 806 West Main St. Atlanta, TX 903.796.2060

Impact Realty Bill and Tracy Spradlin 1200 N. Kings Hwy., Suite 104 Nash, TX 903.748.3186 903.748.2477

Mark Wren, M.D. Physiatrist 3510 Richmond Road, Suite 400 Texarkana, TX 75503 903.831.6275 Vision Source 4401 Morris Lane Texarkana, TX 903.838.9063 Plumbing Central Air/Roto Rooter 450 S. Kings Highway Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.1212 Real Estate Columbia Property Management 4425 Jefferson Avenue #108 Texarkana, AR 71854 870.772.2080

Teresa Liepman Remax 5120 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 75503 903.276.9464 Refreshments Bolls Distributing 700 E. Broad St. Texarkana, AR 870.774.9283 Rentals Big Event / Atlas Game Room 2837 New Boston Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.334.7444 Bounce-A-Lot 903.276.2961 www.bounce-a-lot.org Dot’s Rentals 814 N. Robison Road Texarkana, TX 75501 903.792.7011 3413 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.838.0551 Lone Star Amusements 903.949.5802 Twisted Vines 406 N. Stateline Avenue Texarkana, AR 870-772-2700 Restaurants Amigo Juan Mexican Cafe 2004 Hampton Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.794.2300 4301 Morris Lane Texarkana, TX 903.334.6971 1200 N. Hervey Hope, AR 870.777.0006 611 Loop 59 Atlanta, TX 903.796.2400 Coldstone Creamery 4228 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.838.2653 Daddy Dougaloo’s 905 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.791.0172

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Dairy Queen Locations throughout Ark-La-Tex Fuzzy’s Tacos 4809 Texas Blvd.

Texarkana, TX 903.791.8226 Golden Corral 3809 Sowell Lane Texarkana, TX 903.334.8399 Ironwood Grill 4312 Moores Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.4644 Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354 Los Agaves 5100 N. Stateline Ave. Texarkana, AR 870.773.2300 Pop’s Place Highway 67 Texarkana, AR 870.773.4887 Shorty’s Donuts 2729 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.6686 Smokey Joe’s BBQ 300 W. New Boston Road Nash, TX 903.223.8227 Tasty Donuts 1443 N. Kings Highway Nash, TX 903.838.0422 Wendy’s 4201 Stateline Avenue Texarkana, TX 2902 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 3737 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 1615 N. Hervey Hope, AR 124 N. Loop Highway 59 Atlanta, TX Wingstop 2700 Richmond Road, Suite 14A1 Texarkana, TX 903.255.0090 4501 N. State Line, No. 106 Texarkana, TX 903.792.9464 Retirement/Assisted Living Home Cornerstone Retirement Community 4100 Moores Lane Texarkana, TX 903.832.5515 Spas/Salons All About You Diana Gregory/Lori Campbell 4100 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.7775

Salon Visage Esthetique Mary Ann Robbins 4506 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.794.4007 The Sanctuary Kimberly Parham, M.D. 3502 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.334.8661

Wedding Officiant Jeff Taylor 903.733.6347 pgccminister@yahoo.com Wedding Planners Abracadabra Wedding and Event Planning Debra Mason, Event Coordinator 903.748.4838 damason@cableone.net

Sporting Goods Baits and Blades 3302 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.832.4545

Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Locations Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354

Wedding Attire Bridal Castle 3209 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.838.3886

Smokey Joe’s BBQ 300 W. New Boston Road Nash, TX 903.223.8227

Wedding Coordinators Abracadabra Wedding and Event Planning Debra Mason, Event Coordinator 903.748.4838 damason@cableone.net

Weight Loss All About You Diana Gregory/Lori Campbell 4100 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.7775

Wedding Favors Pop Pop Shoppe 2011 Mall Drive, Suite B Texarkana, TX 903.793.0209

Richmond Nutrition 3316 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 903.832.0437

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ALT is proud to highlight our area students for their accomplishments in sports and the arts!

Our children are our future...and the future looks bright for the Ark-La-Tex! If you know a student you feel should be included in upcoming months, see below!

We are continuing to highlight local students each month – specifically leaders in sports and the arts! Since we have so many great young leaders who come from this area, we wanted the community to get to know them!

If you know someone you feel would be great to be highlighted, please have them submit a photo in their uniform, via email, to debbie@alt-mag.com, along with responses to the following questions: Name: Parents: School/Grade: Sport(s)/postion(s): Achievements: What motivates you to do your best?

What famous person has been an inspiration to you?

If they are submitting a professional photo,

we will need a release from the photographer to use it.

Our 2011-2012 Schedule follows: Year-Round: Senior Leadership Youth Church Leadership Teachers/Coaches Cross Country Swimming Band Cheer/Drill Team/Mascots Theater Visual Arts Choir FFA/FHA August, September, October, November: Football Volleyball Swimming

December, January, February: Basketball Soccer Tennis March, April, May: Softball Baseball Track/Cross Country Powerlifting We have tried to cover everything! We want to be sure all of our athletes/arts students have an opportunity to be highlighted!

Now, meet some amazing young people from around the area! We are proud of all of you!

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What best motivates you to do your best?

My motivation comes from two things, God and the people around me. If I always put forth 100% and have a good attitude, my peers will notice and either strive to be better, or choose me as a role model, and I know that God has given me all of my talents to use them for His glory, so why put them to waste?

What famous person has been an inspiration to you?

I never really look up to famous people because I don’t see what they do from my own perspective. I am truly inspired by my grandmother, Mari Corn. She has managed to achieve all of her goals with her own two hands. She’s trustworthy, never gives up, and has made a great impact on my life through the years.

Lara Jane Jolley Larkin Elizabeth Jewel Parks

Parents: Alan and Tanda Jolley

Parents: Jewel and Vicki Parks

School/Grade: Hooks High School Sophomore

School/Grade: Texas High School Senior Sports/Achievements: Senior Lieutenant, Texas High Steppers Texas High Marching, Symphonic, and Jazz Band 15 year dance student (All Stars Dance Center) What motivates you to do your best: I would have to say that I am self-motivated. My family teases me and says that I am an over-achiever. When I am involved with something, I give it my all, and it comes naturally. When I was just a little baby, my pediatrician told my mother that I was a strong-willed child! I also have great support from my entire family.

What famous person has been an inspiration to you?

I admire Michael Jackson for his dance skills and musical genius. He is a natural and cannot be duplicated. His skills come straight from the heart, and he becomes every beat and every musical note in his dance and singing. His death is a message that as performers, we should take care of ourselves.

Brittany Angelina Post Parents: Kristi Barnett Post School/Grade: Queen City High School Senior Sport(s)/ Achievements: I’m the drum major of the Queen City High School Band of Champions.

Three time A AA Honor Band, Two time AllRegion Band, One time Area Band, TMEA AA State Honor Band, State AA Marching Band Gold-Medalist.

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Sport(s)/Achievements: Hooks High School Colorguard, Second Year HSU Outstanding Female musician 2 years Hooks High School Band Director’s Award Outstanding Freshman musician award 1 Division french horn soloist State Qualifier - french horn quartet Student Council member Newspaper Staff 2011 Miss Teen Hooks Most Congenial Freshman class 1st state alternate - UIL Feature Writing UIL regional qualifier Current Events “A” Honor Roll What best motivates you to do your best?

Knowing that at the end of a half time show I have put everything I have into my performance.

What famous person has been an inspiration to you?

Lisa Ling. I would like to follow in her footsteps and become a journalist.

Christen Hawks Parents: Jon & Victoria Hawks School/Grade: Trinity Christian School Senior Sport(s)/Achievements: Cheerleading Co-Captain What motivates you to do your best?

For me, I believe that we should all do our best in everything we do. If I don’t give 100%, I feel that I’ve not only let my squad down, but my school as well.

What famous person has been an inspiration to you?

C.S. Lewis. The fact that he started out an atheist then converted to Christianity is amazing. He impacted many with his books and writings.

I applaud him for using his creativity for the glory of God.

Kali Anna Epperson Parents: Grady & Kim Epperson School/Grade: New Boston High School Senior Sport(s)/Achievements: Senior Band Member, Senior Cheerleader, Student Council President What best motivates you to do your best?

I always want to give my very best, because looking back I’ll have no regrets at the end of the day.

What famous person has been an inspiration to you?

Danny and Marlo Thomas

Tristen Collins Parents: Cliff and Rita Collins School/Grade: Texas High School Freshman Sport(s)/Achievements: Texas High Steppers Glenn Coco Award, which is given each week to a girl that has worked hard and stood out by accomplishing something.

What best motivates you to do your best?

Being a “new girl,” everyone on the team expects me to be less experienced than the older girls. Instead of accepting the fact that I www.alt-mag.com

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won’t be as skilled as the other Highsteppers, I push myself to do the best I can.

What famous person has been an inspiration to you?

My inspiration is Charmayne James. She is an eleven time world champion barrel racer who said, “You create your own good luck through hard work.”

Blaire Barlow Parents: Charles and Brelinda Barlow School/Grade: Texas High School Senior Sport(s)/Achievements: Varsity Cheerleader CoCaptain Member of Texas High Student Council/Class Representative for four years Leadership National Honor Society Rosebuds Honor Roll National Cheerleaders Association All-American Nominee 15 years of dance Miss Teen Texarkana-World 2010 What best motivates you to do your best?

I believe what motivates me to do my best is knowing I can be a positive role model to younger girls. As an assistant dancer teacher and varsity cheer co-captain I’ve had the opportunity to influence lots of younger girls in the community. I try to impress upon them the importance of kindness, manners, and self discipline, while always reminding myself that younger eyes are watching me.

What famous person has been an inspiration to you?

Miranda Lambert is a famous person who has been an inspiration to me. Not only is she very talented country music singer, she has used her fame to raise funds for the humane society of East Texas.

Together we share a love for country music and homeless animals.

For information on having your high school student highlighted in ALT, email us at debbie@alt-mag.com!

If you would like to advertise in ALT Magazine, the Ark-La-Tex’s Premier Magazine, please contact: Charlie McMurphy 903-908-5797 64

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TIMES ARE HARD AND LOS AGAVES WANTS TO HELP! Los Agaves Restaurant (located inside Clarion Hotel LaCrosse) wants to support our local churches. We are offering a 10% total bill donation (excluding taxes, gratuity and alcohol) with a minimum $10 purchase.

Here’s how it works: • Any day of the week from 6:30am to 10pm, dine in the restaurant or takeout orders.

• Turn in your church’s bulletin with printed advertisement when you pay your bill.

• Make sure church’s accurate address is on bulletin.

• A check will be sent to your church from the Clarion Hotel LaCrosse/Los Agaves Restaurant once a month.

• Offer expires October 31st.

IT’S THAT SIMPLE! We look forward to seeing you and thank you for giving us the opportunity to help you, your church and community.

Have a blessed day.

Sincerely, Management Los Agaves Restaurant/Clarion Hotel LaCrosse 5100 North Stateline Ave. Texarkana Arkansas 71854 Office: 870-774-3521 Restaurant: 870-773-2300

Archonettes and Amicettes’ Induction Ceremony Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, In. EVENT

Gamma Kappa Zeta Chapter

WHERE Southwest Center WHEN 8/27/11

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1. LaRhonda Hamilton and Madison Holman 2. Barbara Larry, LaRhonda Hamilton, and Lillie Young 3. Arlinda Luckey, Donnicia Tate, and Jacoya Anderson 4. Mariah Harris 5. Keyundra Sanders, Donnicia Tate, and Arlinda Luckey 6. Travesa Watts, LaRhonda Hamilton, and Kelsey Turner 7. Amber Darden, Precious Kendricks, Arlinda Luckey, Breyah McDonald, Jacoya Anderson,Donnicia Tate; in front Nikah Hatcher 8. Ashyki Paxton 9. Sponsors Jo Ann Rice and LaRhonda Hamilton 10. Sponsors Shae Watson, Herise Williams, and LaRhonda Hamilton 11. Kanesha Malone 12. Back Row: Mariah Harris, Bryia Lewis, Ketia Russell, Kanesha Malone, Nikah Hatcher; Front Row: Lacie Reed, DeAunna Lester, Madison Holman, Ashyki Paxton 13. 2011-2012 Archonettes and Amicettes 14. Keyundra Sanders 15. Nikah Hatcher, President 16. Ketia Rusell 17. Sky’ya Collins, Miss Blue Revue 2011-2012 18. Sponsor Shae Watson 19. LaRhonda Hamilton, Chairperson 20. Bryia Lewis

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by Jeff Schreve

See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled.

Hebrews 12:15

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id you ever see the movie, Stepmom?

It starred Ed Harris (Luke), Susan Sarandon (Jackie), and Julia Roberts (Isabel). It was about the ugliness of divorce and remarriage, especially when children are involved.

In the story, Luke divorced his wife, Jackie, and they shared custody of their two young children. Over time, Luke began a relationship with Isabel, a younger, more attractive woman. Although Isabel had nothing to do with the divorce, Jackie hated her for being “the other woman” in her ex-husband’s life.

She was especially mean and cruel to her.

Nothing Isabel did was ever right or met with her approval, especially when it concerned the children.

In one memorable scene, Jackie’s little boy, Ben, says to his mother, “Mommy, if you want me to hate her (Isabel), I will.” He was just trying to please … and it seemed to him that picking up his mother’s hatred for Isabel would be the ticket. Although Isabel was trying hard to be good to Ben, yet he was more than willing to hate her on behalf of his bitter, sour-spirited mommy.

HATE ON ME HATER Did you know there are lots of people who “hate” other folks in just the same way?

Although never personally wronged by the one they “hate,” they simply pick up the bitterness and hatred of their “mommy” (a.k.a. loved one) and make it their own. They become defiled by their friend’s bitterness.

The Bible warns us about bitterness. We are NOT to become like Jackie, bitter at people who have hurt us, whether intentionally or unintentionally. Furthermore, we are NOT to become like Ben, picking up the bitterness of loved ones and hating on their behalf.

Listen, you are NOT being a loyal friend by picking up another’s bitterness. Rather, you are spreading strife, feeding the sin, and grieving the heart of God.

THE CHURCH’S BIGGEST SIN I firmly believe the biggest sin in the church of Jesus Christ is the sin of bitterness. So many people in the church are bitter and unforgiving … and they are spreading their bitterness like a communicable disease to friends and family. UGH! What is the answer? Deal God’s way with the bitterness that may have wormed its way into your own heart. Bring your hurts to God and leave them with Him. Choose to forgive those who have hurt you, whether they ask for forgiveness or not. And be a true friend to those whom you know to be bitter. Don’t hate on their behalf. Lovingly confront them with the truth of God’s Word. If they have legitimate issues, they are to go to the person who wronged them as outlined in Matthew 18.

So much trouble and strife could be avoided if we would just do what God says to do. I know it is not ever easy, but it is always right.

HONESTLY ANSWER THIS Have you picked up another’s bitterness?

Drop it right now at the foot of the cross.

Pray for that one you are now bitter toward.

It is impossible to stay bitter when you are earnestly praying for God’s blessings to fall upon the one who hurt you … or hurt your loved one.

Listen, God knows the score. He sees the evil and the good. He is certainly big enough to take care of those who wrong others. So trust Him and don’t fall short of His grace.

Love,

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

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

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Pink Glove Dance Video

EVENT

St. Michael’s Hospital video to be entered in national competition!

1. Community Shoot: Texarkana, Texas Mayor Steve Mayo, Texarkana, Arkansas Mayor Wayne Smith, TISD & TASD mascots and breast cancer survivors 2. CREST Services department: Sam Bennett, Joe Elder, Kelly Wright, Jo Clayton, Dustin Hunter, Henry Matthews, Darren Sneed, Jan Benest, Jeremy Weaver and Daryl Harding 3. Supporters at Pleasant Grove High School.

4. Physical Therapy Department: Peachy Navarro, Gem Legaspi, Sylvia Nelson, Al Catamin, Lisa Cruz, Laura Bailey, Emily Johnson and Kevin Cook 5. Texarkana, Arkansas Mayor Wayne Smith with survivors Mary Miller and Sue Johnson

CHRISTUS ST. MICHAEL HEALTH SYSTEM STARS IN THEIR OWN PINK GLOVE DANCE VIDEO TO SUPPORT BREAST CANCER AWARENESS Video to be entered in national competition to determine best Pink Glove Dance Video Texarkana, TX -- The Pink Glove Dance is coming to the Cancer Center at CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System in Texarkana. To help spread the word about breast cancer awareness and prevention, Associates of CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System and the Cancer Center at CHRISTUS St. Michael are joining with the Mayors of Texarkana, AR, and Texarkana, TX, Komen Texarkana Race for the Cure,

local high schools, local breast cancer survivors, and other community members to star in their own Pink Glove Dance video. The video will be submitted to a national competition to determine the best Pink Glove Dance video. The competition is sponsored by Medline Industries, Inc., manufacturer of the gloves and producer of the original Pink Glove Dance video.

As part of the contest, CHRISTUS St. Michael’s video will be posted on www.pinkglovedance.com on Oct. 3 2011, along with the videos of the other participants from across the country to be viewed by the public. Viewers can then vote on their favorite video (voting requires a Facebook® account).

The top three winners receive a donation in their name to the breast cancer charity of their choice. The winners will be announced October 28 on pinkglovedance.com.

“Once we saw the original video, we immediately wanted to get involved to help make a difference at our facility, in our community and even around the country,” said Gary Upp, Director of the Cancer Center at CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System. “CHRISTUS St. Michael Associates as well as members of the community have been so excited and inspired to be part of our own Pink Glove Dance. It has been not only a lot of fun to participate thus far, but the awareness and discussion about breast cancer we’re going to create from the video is the real satisfaction we’re hoping to take away from this experience.”

The song being used in CHRISTUS St. Michael’s video is Firework by Katy Perry. An interesting side note is that the artist gave permission to use this song specifically for the Pink Glove Dance competition.

The original Pink Glove Dance video premiered in November 2009 and featured 200 Portland, Ore. hospital workers wearing pink gloves and dancing in support of breast cancer awareness and prevention. Today the video has more than 13 million views on YouTube® and has spawned hundreds of pink glove dance videos and breast cancer awareness events across the country. A sequel was produced last October featuring 4,000 healthcare workers and breast cancer survivors throughout North America.

“As a way to extend our breast cancer awareness campaign, we developed a pink glove called Generation Pink™,” said Andy Mills, president of Medline. “Gloves are also the first point of contact between the healthcare worker and the patient. And, because the glove is pink, we hoped it would get

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people talking about breast cancer.”

Medline is donating a portion of each sale of the pink gloves to the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF). To date, Medline has donated more than $800,000 to the NBCF to fund mammograms for individuals who cannot afford them.

About the Cancer Center at CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System Fully-accredited

by The Joint Commission as well as the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer with Commendation, the Cancer Center at CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System provides both oncology and radiation cancer therapies. The Cancer Center at CHRISTUS St. Michael incorporates a Breast and Cervical Cancer Outreach Program funded through Komen Texarkana Race for the Cure and Texas Breast and Cervical Cancer Services. The comprehensive services at the Cancer Center include stateof-the-art technologies such as SBRT (Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy), IMRT (Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy), two linear accelerators, a high speed CT Simulator,

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ADAC “Pinnacle” 3-D Treatment Planning System, Varian “Aria” Patient Treatment Verification System, and low-dose & high-dose rate nucletron Brachytherapy treatment. Diagnostic Patient Navigators assist with resources and education through the diagnostic process to treatment. A Clinical Oncology Patient Navigator then assists through treatment to survivorship. The Cancer Center at CHRISTUS St. Michael has taken significant steps to assure our patients receive the very best in care, treating the whole person and not just the disease. Our Mission “To Extend the Healing Ministry of Jesus Christ” guides our service in every area.

About Medline As the nation’s largest privately held manufacturer and distributor of medical supplies, Medline is focused on helping to improve the quality of care for patients and residents. Breast cancer awareness is a natural extension of Medline’s corporate mission to help save lives through the early detection of breast cancer. (Visit www.medline.com/ breast-cancer-awareness for details). Based in Mundelein, Ill., Medline manufactures and distributes more than 100,000 products to hospitals, extended care facilities, surgery centers, home care dealers and agencies and other markets. www.alt-mag.com

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by Jaclyn Gooding

Inspirations to Halloween is a night of many things:

children going door-to-door for candy, adults gathering to celebrate and many hoping for a good scare. For party planning/holiday enthusiasts like myself and my partner in crime, Miranda Johnson, Halloween is our party planning heaven! Last Halloween, we decided to take our annual Halloween bash to the next level. I’ll share with you a few of our secrets and tips to make your own gathering a spooky success this year! Be warned, a party like this is not for the faint of heart.

Enjoy “Old Hallows Eve!” (We sure did!)

When Miranda and I decided to throw our largest party to date we wanted to leave no detail missed. We decided on the theme “Old Hallows Eve.” To add to the party’s old, gothic feel we asked guests to wear their “finest funeral attire,” all black, of course. This really set the mood of the party and everyone had a lot of fun deciding on what to wear. We loved seeing the men in old-style tuxedos with tails and top hats and the women with long, gothic eye lashes and hair pieces. Here are our favorite snap shots of a few of our guests.

Typically, we don’t mail out actual invitations, but for “Old Hallows Eve” we decided that an invitation would be the perfect way to get guests excited, but also inform them of needto-know details, like the dress, directions, time, etc. We collaborated and wrote our own chilling poem, setting the mood of our event, and even spooked up simple directions. Word choice is key for a Halloween invitation. “The Gooding Home” became “The Gooding Estate.” We even highlighted the term “dead end” in the directions.

Our invitations were 100% hand made, but, if you don’t have the time, there are many pre-made invitations you can buy where all you have to do is punch in your information.

We wanted the first impression guests had upon driving up to be huge! So, we turned the front yard into a graveyard.

(Appropriate with the wake/ funeral theme.) The names on the “grave” marking crosses were those of the guests. To light them, we used small LED flashlights stuck in the ground.

These give off a blue light, so we wrapped the top of them in red plastic baggie, found normally for putting baked goods in, and wrapped the entire thing in cling wrap, in case of rain or dew. The blue lights plus the red plastic gave off the purple/red look seen here. The front porch light was also changed to a red light, so it was very grim looking and really set the tone.

I have a pretty small house, so space was definitely an issue, and we didn’t want it to look like my living room when guests walk in, so we moved the sofas that were in the living area and put them under the first tent outside for additional seating.

Then, we used rented pipe and drape to line the walls and inclose the kitchen, as well as hide other things, making a direct path to the back door. This worked perfectly because it continued the dark, upscale tone but also allowed us to use uplights behind the curtains, making the room appear to be lit by candlelight. We found antique candelabras at different thrift stores around town and used those throughout the entire party. You can see our main food set up here. Note that the plates are disposable! There’s nothing wrong with using throw aways. After party cleanup is a large task, so make it a little easier! We bought nicer, realistic looking silverware and plates, but they were, of course, disposable!

The fabulous Jennifer CrawfordOgburn (Twisted Vines) designed this floral centerpiece and it was absolutely perfect! We loved the dark tones used and the vintage chandelier on top was perfect! If you want to try doing floral work yourself a neat way to accomplish whatever color you’re looking for is to lightly spray paint the flowers. Some of the roses used in other places were painted black and I loved it!

Who says kids are the only ones who need candy and desserts on Halloween? You can see here that we provided plenty of variety for this extravagant dessert table. I don’t think anyone left unsatisfied! We split up dessert duty and ended up with many delicious treats! You’ll notice bundt cakes, cheesecake, popcorn, popcorn balls, candied apples, meringue bones, candy and cupcakes. Don’t forget to put out to-go bags for your guests to take treats home in!

We loved these cupcakes! They were delicious and not too difficult to do yourself. If you don’t have the time or ability, you can always take ideas like this to your local baker and have him do them for you.

Another fun treat was Miranda’s meringue bones. You can do these yourself with your favorite recipe by using a plastic bag with a corner cut off to pipe out the “bones!” We used apothecary jars for the bones, as well as the popcorn and glittered or lighted skulls.

When you stepped out of the back door, this is what was waiting! We rented a clear-top tent, as well as the LED multi-lighted tables and the tea light trees on them. Purple lights illuminated the corners of the tents, continuing the mood lighting from the front yard and inside the house. Notice the sofa (the one we moved from inside.) This spot was a neat lounge area for guests.

And, this is what you saw when you walked through the first tent. Tent number two was our larger tent where we had our large tables set up for eating. We decided on a traditional seating style, in theme, and also splurged on chiavari chairs.

Nothing looks better for upscale! We also decided to use the tent liner for the visible top of the tent.

Many said it resembled the inside of a casket, so how appropriate!

This was the view from the back of the tent, looking back in. You’ll notice our candelabras of various sizes throughout. The tall, round, pub table-like things in the middle are actually heaters. Last Halloween was fairly cold and our guests really appreciated this. We also had a firepit outside of the tent where guests could “roast a ghost,” aka marshmallow, and get warm.

As a courtesy, we placed hand warmers out for anyone that needed them. We warned everyone ahead of time to dress for the weather, which I would always suggest doing if you’re going to be outside, hot or cold.

When decorating for events, we don’t always use chair ties on the chiavari chairs, as they look great just by themselves, but, we wanted to dress them up even more, so we decided on these crushed taffeta ties.

Notes:::: Don’t forget the music! This sets the tone of the party, and silence is awkward! At the beginning of the party, we played creepy organ music.

(Not cheesy Halloween screams, but traditional, funeral style music, with a hint of creepy!) Then we changed to normal songs, with an edge of Halloween, like “Thriller,” “Black Magic Woman,” and “I Put a Spell On You.” Small house? No problem! Don’t let that deter you. You can do like I did and move out furniture and/or put up a tent! People want to be close together, anyway!

As always, plan ahead. A large scale party does not happen overnight. Sometimes it takes months of planning, so do everything in advance that you can. You don’t want to be too tired to enjoy the party once it finally gets here! Don’t have much time?

Have a simple costume party and just make fun food! Everyone likes to eat!

Wishing you and your family a Happy Halloween!

TSO Celebrity Conductors Competition EVENT

WHERE

The Home of Jon and Wanda Northam WHEN

9/13/11

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1. Pat and Jane Davitt 2. Flour Child Fine Foods - Amanda Raney Horton 3. Marc-Andre Bougie 4. Dr. Jo Kahler, Victor and Suzy Hlavinka and Pam McCoy 5. William and Barbara Carl, David and Charlotte Potter 6. Nita Fran Hutcheson and Barbara McCash 7. Stacy and Linda Gogbill, Connor Patman and Betty Grace 8. Marc-Andre Bougie, Dr. George English, Dr. Susan Keeney and Dan Haskins 9. Josh and Martha Morriss and Dan Haskins 10. Marsha Elliot, Barbara and Bruce Cannedy and Traci Anderson 11. Danny and Remica Gray, Candace Taylor and MarcAndre Bougie 12. Janna Stokes, Linda White, Bill Thornton and Lynn Akins 13. Ray Walsh, Jana and Tommy Hicks and Mel Walsh 14. Flour Child Fine Foods - Patsy Raney, Lauren Dodson, Chantel Kyles, Amanda Raney Horton, Tracy Schuster and Marquisha Jackson 15. Danny Gray and Robert Green 16. Suzy and Victor Hlavinka, Wanda and Jon Northam 17. Wanda Northam and Amy Freedman 18. James and Kathleen Verschoyle 19. Ed and Dottie Miller, R. Andrew Clark 20. Mary Fore, Pam McCoy and Remica Gray 21. Paul and Barbara McCash

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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.

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!

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.

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

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

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1. This little cutie is Darcy and she is a 3 month old Schnauzer mix. She has had puppy shots and is on heartworm and flea prevention. This sweet girl loves to play and would be a great addition to a family. She gets along well with other dogs and will just steal your heart. For more info call (903) 838-4965.

2. This beautiful little girl is an 8 month old cur mix. She has been spayed, given all her shots and is heartworm free. Ziva can be a little shy until she gets to know you and then her wonderful personality will shine. She is very social and loves to play so if you have another dog that would be great with Ziva. For more info on her call Lee Ann at (903) 244-4847.

3. Midnight is a 7 month old male Chihuahua. He is neutered, current on shots, housetrained, walks well on a leash and loves children. Please call Diana at (903) 8384965 for more iformation on this loving little fellow.

4. Owen is his name and loving you is his game..... If you are wanting a friend that wants to spend time with you

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and give you love and attention, this is the guy for you.

He is around a year, weighs about 12 pounds. He does need a privacy or electric fence as he is a climber. Owen has been neutered, current on shots and is on heartworm preventitive. If you would like to know more about this wonderful guy call Sherrie at (903) 838-6334.

5.

Please meet these two most handsome and well mannered gentlemen! Scruffy is a 3 year old Yorkie and is the proud father of 2 year old Scooby. These cute little fellows are fully vetted and housetrained. They are easy going, very kid and cat friendly and very low maintenance. They are microchipped and on heartworm and flea prevention. We would really like to keep these two little guys together. For more info call Diana at (903) 8384965.

6. George is a precious little cockapoo. He is around 2 years old, weighs 20 pounds, altered, and current on shots. He had tested positive for heartworms but he is now treated and ready for that wonderful home. He loves

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to play chase, but he is just as content in your lap. This boy would be the perfect addition to a family with children, but would be better being the only pet, as he tends to get very jealous when he isn’t getting all the attention. For more info contact Amber at (870) 653-6983 or by email at amberli4@yahoo.com.

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Thelma is a spayed terrier/hound mix around 6 months old. She is current on shots and negative for heartworms. She is a gentle and loving girl, good with children and other dogs and ready for a caring home.

Contact Amber Ferguson (807) 653-6983 or amberli4@ yahoo.com.

8. Is this not an angel’s face? Can you believe her family moved and left her behind? Mitzi is a 1 year old Shih Tzu, 9 lbs., fully vetted and very much a lap dog. She is great with dogs and cats. She would be best suited for someone who is home most of the time. She needs a stable environment. Call Crickett (903) 832-2321.

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1. Dasher is 3 years old and weighs about 8 lbs. He iust wants to go where he can spread his love.

2. Tera is about 2 years old and weights about 7 lbs. She is ready for a place to call “home.”

3. Heidi is 2 years old and weighs about 7 lbs. She is great with kids, loves to play and is ready for her forever 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.

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We’ve got lots of kittens needing good homes right now!

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4. TeTe is about 2 years old and weeighs about 6 lbs. She’s ready for love!

5. Gunnie is 2 years old and weighs about 8 lbs. He’s ready to go “home!”

6. Midnight is about 1 year old and weighs about 6 lbs. He is looking for a loving home and loves to play!

7. YoYo is about 2 years old and weighs about 7 lbs. All he wants is a loving home.

Who else can help?

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

Want to help but can’t adopt?

The Texarkana Humane Society is in need of collars, all sizes; leashes; flea prevention for both dogs and cats; dog and cat food; and monetary donations.

They are also in need of more volunteers.

If your are interested in donating, helping with events, fostering or working fundraisers call Sherrie at (903) 838-6334.

Great news from Max and his forever Mom. He is now neutered and showing off all the tags on his collar while he is attending obedien ce classes at PetSmart. That would be his Rabies Tag, City Tag, and Mic rochip Tag. He is doing very well in class and has told the instructor that he wants to be a therapy dog. His Mom is very much in love with this little guy. Max used to be Rhett that was rescued out of the woods on Lake Drive as a tiny 3-4 wee k old puppy. Thanks Teresa for giving Max a great home!

(Courtesy of the Texarkana Humane Society )

Happy

Tails! www.alt-mag.com

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October Calendar October 1

Dot’s Ace Hardware is hosting the 1st annual TEggsARKANA EggFest. It is a day focused on The Big Green Egg and those who love to cook on it. Family and Friends gathered together to share recipes and grilling tips. Whether you own a Big Green Egg or not, if you love great tasting food and great company this is a day you don’t want to miss. Join us at the lot behind Dot’s Ace Hardware from 9:30AM TO 4:30PM. For more information: (903) 838-0059.

October 3

Hands On Texarkana 16th Annual Golf Classic sponsored by Bancorp South will be at Oak Grove Golf Club- 1 Oak Grove Dr New Boston, TX 75570 (Red River Army Depot). For more information please call (903) 798-3211, Kathey Graves at (903) 701-6032 or by email at HandsOntxk@aol. com

October 4

How to Read Your E.O.B. (Explanation of Benefits). This class will focus on how to read those letters you are constantly receiving from your insurance company called Explanation of Benefits, or EOBs. EOBs explain your insurance reimbursement for your visits at HealthCARE Express. Often, insurance companies will need more explanation, different codes, etc. before reimbursement happens, which they will tell you on the EOB. Held from 12:00PM-1:00PM.*

October 6

Join us for the Fall 2011 Job Fair! Community Job Fair is open to the public and free to attend.

Sponsored by Workforce Solutions Northeast Texas, Texarkana College, Harte-Hanks, and TriState SHRM. 1:00PM TO 4:00PM at the Truman Arnold Center at Texarkana College. For more information: (903) 794-4163 ext.124.

October 6

The City of Texarkana, TX Parks & Recreation Department will be hosting their Fall Series of Movies in the Park. Join us in Spring Lake Park for the new release, “Rango” Rated PG. This is a free event and show time is approximately at 7:30PM. (Sponsored by TaMolly’s Mexican Restaurant) For more information, call the Parks office at (903) 798-3978.

October 7-8

Arkansas State Square Dance Federation Fall Festival at Four States Fair Grounds. For more information: (903) 792-7191.

October 8

“Jeans & Bling” is hosted by Ramage Farms

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and will feature local sensation “Split Decision,” live music and dancing, a live auction, huge prizes including two Florida vacations, drinks and heavy hors d’oeuvres from the Area’s Best Restaurants. Tickets are only $50 per person-limited tickets available, Order yours today at www.HospiceofTexarkana.org or (903) 7944263. Proceeds benefit Hospice of Texarkana’s “Building on the Vision” capital campaign. 7:00PM to 10:00PM

October 15

“Remembering our Babies Candlelight Vigil” 6:30 - 8:00. There will be live singing as well as speakers to share their stories. Event is primarily for those who have experienced the loss of a child through miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, stillbirth or infant death; however it is open to anyone in the public to spread awareness about losses of this kind.

October 16 October 8 T-Town Reunion Cruise from 11:00 Hoo-Rah Days - A turn-of-the-century celebration of De Queen’s birth as a railroad town in 1897, featuring food, crafts, 19th century costumes, music and local history. 08:00AM - 05:00PM. For more information: (870) 642-6642.

October 10

Columbus Day! October 11

The “Cirque” show that started it all! Women For the Arts annual festive street party, free for ticket holders • 6:30pm TRAHC’S HERO AWARDS - 7:30m • Honoring individuals and businesses which have inspired the community to support TRAHC and the Arts. Celebrating over 50 years of death-defying, high-flying, breathtaking acts, the National Acrobats will appear at the Perot Theatre on their first ever North American tour. With a troupe of 35 performers, you won’t want to miss this “acrobatic spectacular” that’s sure to thrill the whole family. 7:30PM to 10:00PM. For more information: (903) 792-4992.

October 13

The City of Texarkana, TX Parks & Recreation Department will be hosting their Fall Series of Movies in the Park. Join us in Spring Lake Park for the new release, “Mega-Mind” Rated PG. This is a free event and show time is approximately at 7:30PM. (Sponsored by Health Care Express) For more information, call the Parks office at (903) 798-3978.

October 13

Understanding Coordination of Benefits - If you’re covered by more than one insurance plan (i.e. your spouse’s medical plan or Medicare), the goal is to cover your medical costs so the total of all health plan charges or network contracted rates for eligible expenses will be paid. Sometimes this requires extra work on your end, or more notification to your healthcare provider. This class will help you make sure you’re getting all the benefits you are entitled to.

Held from 6:00PM-7:00PM.*

to 2:00 on parking lot of Texas Plaza at 4303 Texas Blvd. Open to all antique, muscle cars, street rods and classic show cars. Lots of door prizes, oldies music, fun time family event. Hosted

by City Church of Texarkana. Free admission.

(During this event we will be having a “Casa for Kids Drive” and ask those who are able to please bring either a teddy bear, small juice boxes, or small packets of animal crackers.)

October 17

Annual Doris K. James Golf Tournament. Mark James, chairman of our annual golf tournament, invites you to join us at Northridge Country Club!

Registration and lunch will begin at 12:00 noon.

Shotgun Start will be at 1:00PM. Four person scramble entry fee: $125 person/$500 team. For more information please call us at our office at (903) 223-8021 or 1 (877) 312-8536.

October 18

Understanding Place of Service Costs - Did you know your insurance carrier has different contract rates depending on which type of facility you visit? As an urgent care center, HealthCARE Express may be cheaper than a visit to the emergency room but more expensive than a trip to a primary care doctor. This class will teach you how to look at your insurance contract and learn why different visits may cost you more or less.

Held from 12:00PM-1:00PM.*

October 18-20

Four tours available at 8pm, 9pm, 10pm and 11pm. Bring your cameras and hunt for ghosts in the historic Perot Theatre in downtown Texarkana! Call 903-792-4992 to reserve spots. $10 per person.

October 20

The City of Texarkana, TX Parks & Recreation Department will be hosting a 2011 Fall Fest!

Please join us for fun filled entertainment for the entire family. Face Painting, Bounce-House, Costume Contest, a Hay Ride, and games for all to enjoy. Festivities begin at 5:00PM, immediately followed by a movie showing of “ET-The Extra

Terrestrial” at approximately 7:30PM. For more information, please call the Parks office at (903) 798-3978.

October 20

Partnership for the Pathways Annual Membership Party at the Silver Moon in downtown Texarkana from 5:00PM to 7:30PM. The public is invited to attend and join Partnership for the Pathways to support our efforts of building trails in and around Texarkana. We will have refreshments and a program to inform members of the on-going work that is being done to support the trails and our annual Run the Line Half Marathon. Admission for current members if free. Anyone can become a member by paying fee of $25 for individual and $30 for families. The Partnership is a non-profit, all-volunteer organization working to build a safe walking, running, bicycling trail system in the Texarkana area and is the recipient of the dues and donations.

October 20

The City of Texarkana, TX Parks and Recreation Department will be hosting their Spring Series of Movies in the Park. Join us at Spring Lake Park for the showing of, “ET-The Extra Terrestrial” Rated PG. This is a FREE event and Showtime is approximately 7:30PM. (Sponsored by Domino Federal Credit Union) For more information call the Parks office at (903) 798-3978.

October 20

Partnership for the Pathway 5th Anniversary Membership Party 5:30 - 7:30 The Silvermoon on Broad, 211-217 West Broad We’re excited to announce that our 5th anniversary party will help hail the opening of the new SilverMoon in downtown Texarkana! Trails and an active lifestyle help spur new business ventures, and we’re excited to give you the opportunity to tour Texarkana’s newest. This year we have lots to report and much to discuss. Light appetizers and beverages will be provided.

Check our web site for more info: www.txktrails.org Let us know you are coming at: http://txktrails11mem. eventbrite.com/ Annual membership is $25.00 for individual and $30.00 for family.

October 21-23

Dad & Lad Weekend at Camp Preston Hunt. For more information: (903) 793-2179.

October 22

The City of Texarkana, TX Parks and Recreation Department will be hosting their Fall Community Garage Sale at Spring Lake Park. Over 100 booths will be available. Registration begins on Monday, September 26th until all booths are sold. (Just in case of rain, the reschedule date is posted for October 29th) Call the Parks office at (903) 798-3978 for more information.

October 22

Annual Civic Awards Banquet - Linden, TX Come to the Fair! The Annual Civic Awards Banquet is sponsored by the Linden Area Chamber of Commerce. It will be at the Mary Daughety Senior Citizens Center on Kaufman Street at 6 pm. No tickets are necessary; donations will be accepted at the door. Also, the winner of a 32- inch Flat Screen TV will be announced.

October 22

7:00-10:00pm Raising Dough for Jen Jen Ho! Please bring everyone you know to a fundraising concert/event at Hopkins on Saturday, October 22 @ 7 p.m. There will be lots of prizes, lots of friends, and hopefully lots of “dough” raised to help Jenn with her medical expenses as she continues her fight against of Hodgkins Lymphoma. $10 cover, plus auction items available.

October 27

Annual fundraising golf tournament for HandsOn Texarkana. $100 a player with four player teams.

Entry fee includes lunch served at 11:30AM,18 holes of golf at Oak Grove Golf Club, green fees and golf cart, after play food, and goody bags.

Contact HandsOn Texarkana for registration at (903) 798-3211.

October 27

The City of Texarkana, TX Parks and Recreation Department will be hosting their Fall Series of Movies in the Park. Join us at Spring Lake Park for the traditional showing of, “The Town That Dreaded Sundown”. This is a FREE event and Showtime is approximately 7:30PM. For more information call the Parks office at (903) 7983978.

October 27

Insurance vs. Cash Pay Discounts - Major changes in insurance plans now have many people paying more of their healthcare costs out of pocket. Sometimes cash pay discounts may be cheaper than billing your insurance, especially if you have a high yearly deductible. This class will teach you about the different health discounts available to you. Held from 6:00PM-7:00PM.*

October 29

Transylvania’s Got Talent - Come see our ghoulish judges r.i.p. apart the brave ‘contestants’ in our scary talent show. Then hang around for a great concert by the wildest band we could dig up. The show starts at 7:30PM, the doors creak open at 6:45PM. Tickets will be $13.13. For tickets: www.academyoftexasmusic.org/events.

Wear your own costume. The Academy Building, 301 E. Houston St. Linden, Tx 75563.

October 31

Halloween! *If you RSVP to seminar@healthcareexpress.us or call 903-791-9355, ext. 206, by the Monday prior to each event, a free boxed lunch will be provided for you at the event. Light refreshments will be available for all who attend. All classes will be held at the HealthCARE Express Billing Office located at 3101 Kennedy Lane, Ste. 100, Texarkana, TX 75503.

www.alt-mag.com

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Buying?

Selling?

We Can Help!

Bill Spradlin Realtor 903-748-3186

Tracy Spradlin Broker 903-748-2477

Jan Williams Realtor 903-277-5771

Karyn Baucum Realtor 903-278-3836

1200 N. Kings Hwy., Suite 104, Nash, TX 75569

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

www.realtyexecutivestexarkana.com

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

Immaculate 2 Story, PG, 4 bdrms, 3.5 baths, 2 gorgeous fireplaces w/gas logs in place, master bath w/whirlpool tub, tall ceilings throughout, open floor plan, landscaping, in ground pool.

Fantastic custom built home, 2 Story, 4/4/2C, vaulted ceiling in great room w/gas log fp, lge kitchen, each rm has bathroom, 2 m. bdrms downstairs, sunroom, covered patio, 6 acres

This house is Awesome! 3/2/2G, FD, Remodeled w/granite countertops, decorative glass & stone mosaic backsplash, some new appl., ceramic tile in master & 2nd bath, new paint & roof, landscaped.

Awesome New Construction in LE! This 2 Story home has 3 bdrms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, a gas log vented fireplace, and a covered patio, among many other beautiful features.

Its contemporary style is complimented by an open floor plan and beautiful colors that accent the home throughout.

Gorgeous Home 4/3/2L/3G, office, gourmet kitchen, butlers pantry, FD, M Bdrm split, ceramic tile shower, deck w/ hot tub. Amazing Home!

Liberty Eylau, new construction, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage, open floor plan, beautiful fireplace in family room, wood and ceramic tile floors, covered patio, high ceilings throughout, this home has it all and priced right, call for your showing today.

Fantastic 2 story home in Pleasant Grove, 2,052 Square feet, 3 bdrms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage, 2 living areas, Fireplace, on 0.99 acres.

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

2nd Location in New Boston, TX NOW OPEN!

Fabulous Home in Maud, featuring 3 bdrms, 2 baths, 2 Car Garage, Office, CH/A, chain link & wood privacy fencing, covered patio, out bldg, concrete drive & more. Call to view!

Residential . Land . Timber Recreational Property Commercial

903.223.0710

Buying? Selling?

We Can Help!

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

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

Residential . Land . Timber Recreational Property Commercial

www.realtyexecutivestexarkana.com

MLS# 84676 This is an awesome home with gorgeous concrete overlay floors throughout! Granite tile counter tops in

kitchen, Granite tops in Master Bath with large glass bowl sinks, garden tub. Split master bedroom arrangement, gas log fireplace, beautiful landscaping accented with fountain, large workshop in fenced backyard. This is a dream home!

Schedule your appointment today!

Realty Executives Impact,

1200 N. Kings Hwy., Suite 104, Nash, TX 75569

Each office independendly owned and operated.