ALT Magazine January 2017

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January 2017 | Vol. 11, Issue 1

2017 Winners

17 to watch in 17

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January 2017/Volume 11/Issue 1

2017 Winners

CONTENTS THIS MONTH 14

Inspired to do More

22 17 to watch in 17 63

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HOICE AW C A S

Reader’s Choice Winners

REGULARS 84

Hot Spots

89

Calender of Events

82

Fish Tales

88

Financial Focus

COO / PUBLISHER / FOUNDER Debbie Brower CO-FOUNDER Jaclyn Gooding

SALES & MARKETING Debbie Brower 903.334.9605 GRAPHIC DESIGN Lisa Alexander, Amber Mason, Alyssa Bertrand MAGAZINE LAYOUT/ DESIGN Lisa Alexander PHOTOGRAPHY Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Karen Lansdell CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mike Brower, Dustin Stringer FEATURE WRITERS Carrie Atkinson, Anne Fruge Granado If you have an event you would like to include in our Upcoming Events section, please e-mail us at: info@ alt-mag.com.

A LT - M AG . c o m info@alt-mag.com 101 Slaton Dr. Nash, TX 75569 (903) 334-9605 ALT Magazine is published the 1st business day of every month.

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Fo r a d ver t i s i n g info r m atio n, c all 903. 334. 9605 06 ALT Magazine | January 2017

From the Publisher

DEBBIE BROWER

Resolutions….I’ve never been a big believer in making New Years’ Resolutions. It seems that I am never able to keep them! There are reasons for my breaking them, but mostly they have to do with getting fit and losing weight and after a while, my desire for food and workaholic attitude gets in the way! I just maintain.

This year, again, I do not have any resolutions. However, I do have a wonderful life, the most amazing family, great friends, and a staff I can count on. The end of last year saw a lot of changes at ALT. Jaclyn and I are both excited about what 2017 has in store.

Lisa Alexander came to us in August. She is such a joy! With lots of experience, Lisa came in with a great attitude and is doing a great job! She is quick to laugh and enjoy life – something I love! She loves her husband and her kids and spends her extra time doing things with them. I love that her son, Brody, comes to the office every afternoon, which keeps her from having to make him go to daycare. Sometimes his grandmother picks him up, sometimes he plays with our foster dogs who are at the office, and sometimes he plays on his i-Pod. He is a lot like his mother – very quiet and studious, but with a smile on his face, never causing a problem.

Watching Lisa around him affirms my impression that she was the right fit for ALT. Amber Mason is now at home with her baby daughter, Gentry. We are all so excited about having Gentry come visit us so we can spoil her silly! (Then send her back to her mom!

LOL) We are missing Amber’s quick laugh and fun personality, but we understand the desire to be with your newborn and how important that is. We will be sharing portraits of Gentry next month as we welcome her into this world!

With Amber’s departure, we welcomed Alyssa Bertrand.

Alyssa was a student in the Advanced Graphic Design class I taught this past spring at Texas A&M University-Texarkana.

As our intern this fall, we fell in love with her! As Jaclyn said, she fit perfectly because she knew just the right candy to bring to the office! HA! She is a quick learner and has excelled at her new job. With graduation from TAMUT in December, she is now a full-time graphic designer for us – as she says, her “dream job.” She also is quick to laugh – which we are in abundance of now at the office! I love it!

This month’s issue includes our 17 to Watch in ’17. There are some truly amazing people in our community and I hope you enjoy reading about them. I have my own 2 to Watch – and I am excited to see how this year develops!

May God bless you and yours in 2017!

08 ALT Magazine | January 2017

Lisa Alexander

Alyssa Bertrand

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IN SP IR ED to do More.

Words by Carrie Atkinson

If you are like most people that experienced the year that was 2016, you are happily anticipating watching the crash and burn from your rearview mirror. Our nation has been divided, and so many we know and love have faced hardships and trials this year. With hindsight being 20/20, let us pause and reflect on what was and what is to come. (Think Christmas spirits). What will the year 2017 hold? Can we make 2017 look different from the recently painful past? Just who will be watching you in 2017?

For the Atkinson’s, they are hoping to have a new little pair of eyes watching. Jason and Carrie Atkinson met and married in 2012. Their lives look drastically different than 4 years ago, and they are about to detour on another major roller coaster.

Jason is now an English teacher at Arkansas High ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 015

after 20 years in the copier industry, and Carrie owns and operates Persnickety Too, Flowers that Rock; a lifelong dream come true and a career change after seven years as a registered nurse.

Jason has two children, Ryan and Lillie that live in California with their mom, and Carrie has one grown son, Wesley who is serving in the Air Force in Japan and married to Hailey, and one daughter, Emma who is a freshman at AHS. Blending families can be challenging, but God has been gracious to the Atkinson’s. When Jason and Carrie starting discussing families, they discovered they both had a desire to adopt or to help a child in need in some way. 2017 is going to be the year this desire is met.

For a long time, Carrie harbored a secret feeling that she was not

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cut out to be a foster or adoptive mother. Her secret thoughts went like this: “I’m not much of a hugger, I’m such a creature of comfort, I would probably do more harm than good…” Enter her own father in 2014 on hospice with a month to live. Carrie did not have a great childhood, and was not raised by this man. But she and her family agreed to take him in when he was obviously not able to care for

himself any longer at 71 and in end-stage heart failure.

“I watched my son play poker with my Dad. I watched my daughter read the entire book of Genesis to him and my Dad, a devoted agnostic, ask her interested questions without sarcasm.

I watched my husband and son pick him up in the bathroom and carry him when he couldn’t walk. My Dad sat in my flower shop, a place he adored because it reminded him of my mother and a good time in his life, and he sat in his wheelchair with a beaming smile on his face. Over and over he would ask, “why are you all being so nice to me?” He just could not comprehend what compassion, free forgiveness and grace meant. We would tell him, this is what Jesus is.

He died in my house and he had someone to cry for him. This lonely old man experienced the love of Jesus in my home. My family went through something so hard but so worth it; and that’s when I decided

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that I didn’t have to be the perfect parent to welcome a hurting child in my home. After all, the Holy Spirit would be the one doing the important stuff, not me in my own strength! It’s not in my strength that anything worth doing gets done.”

Did you know that there are over 4500 children in foster care in Arkansas today? There are 5700 churches in Arkansas.

“Our churches can end children waiting in shelters, hospitals and group homes. We are called to do so!” says Carrie.

“Religion that God our Father accepts as faultless is this: Look after widows and orphans in their distress and keep oneself unpolluted by the world.” James 1:27.

“This is what motivated us to do something,” Carrie says.

“We started the process a couple of times with the Arkansas DHS (Department of Human Services) to foster/adopt a child. The process is tedious with lots of stops, starts and waiting. There is lots of turnover in

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the social work field, because their job is overworked, emotionally exhausting and underpaid. There are so many children who get lost in the cracks of bureaucracy. It’s frustrating. Then one day this program

called TFC fell in our laps. Jason received an email from AHS about a mentoring program through Southwest Mental Health. He walked in to fill out the paperwork to be a mentor and met Van Hall who is the program director over TFC. Jason

mentioned we were going into foster parenting and Van’s reaction was, ‘Oh? Did you know we have a special fostering program?’” The rest was history.

What is the TFC program you ask?

The Therapeutic Foster Care Program is a program designed to provide a home environment to a child who has more serious issues. Often these children have intense needs of love, support and consistency.

The program’s trained foster parents can manage these types of behaviors. The child has access to individual and family therapy, intensive intervention services in the foster home and school, as well as psychiatric services and medication management.

The ultimate goal is to provide the child and family with support so that they can be healthier and more successful in their homes and communities.

“All children, all people, in fact, deserve a chance to live the life God

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intended for them. What they do not deserve is abuse, neglect and the trauma they have endured. But that is the fallen world in which we live. “We want to extend the grace and mercy to a child that has been extended to us in Jesus. God can use any circumstance, good, bad and ugly for His glory. His specialty is to make beauty from ashes” Carrie says.

Carrie and Jason are currently in training to be TFC foster parents, and are eagerly awaiting their first child. This will be no easy task. They

know that their house is about to become grounds for spiritual warfare. Souls are at stake. “We will be forced to live on our knees. God will carry us through. God has a purpose for each and every person.

He makes no mistakes. Our pasts, good and bad will help us relate to this hurting child. The training TFC provides is absolutely imperative and the support they bring acts as the extended family we desperately need. The workers at TFC are tireless; their competence, the hours they put in, the money out of their

Traditional Foster Care

Primary Reason for Placement

Treatment Services

Foster Parent Role

Training

Documentation

Staff Support

Treatment Planning

Therapeutic Foster Care

Need for care and protection

Need for treatment services to address mental health needs (emotional and behavioral problems) Occurs outside the foster home, Primary interventions and if needed support provided in the TFC home Caregiver and nurturer

Implements in home treatment strategies

Pre-service plus annual inservice 10 – 15 hours CPR required

Pre-service plus annual inservice 24 – 40 hours CPR and Crisis Behavior Management required Daily documentation of progress toward treatment goals

Daily Notes

Monthly home visits by casework staff

Participation in case plan staffing

Weekly interventions by mental health staff with crisis intervention and stabilization as necessary Participation in development of the master treatment plan and quarterly treatment plan reviews

Source: Arkansas Therapeutic Foster Care Standards and DCRS Policies and Standards for Foster Care April 2013

020 ALT Magazine | January 2017

own pockets, the endless patience and genuine concern they have for these children has us in awe. We are inspired to do more, to live outside of our own wants and creature comforts. We only get one life to live. Don’t waste it! We know we are about to embark on a roller coaster in 2017. And we can’t wait for the ride.”

If you are interested in more information, please contact: Toni Hagins, LAC 870.773.4655, ext 2402; thagins@swacmhc.com

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Jerry Lynn Brewer 024 ALT Magazine | January 2017

owner of nai american realty • Jerry is married to Yulin Brewer and is the father of Shannon Brewer. He is also the owner of commercial real estate business NAI American Realty. “The most critical thing in my business is taking care of people by making sure to the best of my ability that they invest wisely and not lose their savings,” Jerry says. “It is more important to tell people not to buy when it is a bad investment than to make a commission. They will become customers for life once they know you are looking out for their interests above your own.”

• Jerry and his family support important causes in our community. In the winter, Jerry is his wife’s assistant as she makes enough winter beef stew to feed 250 homeless people. They are also in the process of starting a business incubator/ accelerator and co-working space on Texas Blvd. at the former Collom and Carney building. “The incubator will help start-up businesses with business plans, coaching, financing and mentoring. The younger generation needs connectivity and human interaction as much as the older generation needs privacy when they work,” Jerry says. “We hope to make Texarkana more attractive to our young, high-tech and multitasking millenials and create jobs for them here in a culture in which they can thrive.”

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Ashley elizabeth stinnett carlow 026 ALT Magazine | January 2017

Teacher and owner of traditions bridal • Ashley is married to Brad Carlow and they have four children: Taylor, Shelby, Triston and Briley. While shopping for a dress for daughter Shelby’s upcoming spring wedding, they visited Traditions in Summerhill Square, but Ashley told Shelby they were just there to look and wouldn’t be buying anything. “I guess the joke is on me because I ended up buying the shop,” Ashley says. “Customer service is the most important aspect of Traditions. Our number one goal is to listen to the needs of our customers so we can serve them best. I would love to see Traditions become the bridal and formal shop that folks drive for miles to come and shop. My goal is to carry the lines that people have been driving out of town to find.”

• Ashley has been teaching for 24 years in Maud ISD. When she isn’t working at the school or now at Traditions, she spends her time with family. “My greatest accomplishment is my children! I am so very proud of each one of them and love them so very much,” Ashley says.

• “My life motto is, ‘It is what it is.’ I took that from my dad who was an educator for over 40 years and a very wise, insightful man.”

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Christian Movement • Christian Warriors started with only eight men who felt called by God to start a Christian movement in our local community. The Bible verse they adopted as their motto is “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.

Do all things with LOVE,” 1 Corinthians 16: 13-14. Their goal each day is to love on others in need and lead others to Christ through their actions.

• Over the last few years, Christian Warriors have been exposed to the great need in this community, and they try to meet those needs. The group volunteers in many local events and puts on two runs each year: Worthy of Warmth Run, where the entry fee is a coat that they distribute to the homeless and underprivileged youth, and Spread the Word Run, where the entry fee is a Bible that they give to people who do not have the funds to purchase one themselves.

Their most memorable event was their first serving event, FCA Fields of Faith 2015. “We will never forget the way God worked that night.”

• “Christian Warriors is a movement, and movements never stop. We will continue to fight the good fight and show love through our actions until the last day.”

Christian Warriors 028 ALT Magazine | January 2017

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Joshua edward davis 032 ALT Magazine | January 2017

Texarkana, TX council member • Josh’s wife Mandy is a kindergarten teacher for PGISD. They have been married for 17 years and have one daughter, Lora, a sophomore at PG High School. Josh is serving a fourth term as Texarkana Texas Council member for Ward 6 and serves as Mayor Pro Tem. He also runs a family business and has been a firefighter/EMT for 17.5 years. “I chose to become a firefighter to be able to help and serve others,” Josh says.

“As a council member I get to help and meet many people in our community. I love the challenges we face everyday and working with others to resolve them.”

• Josh believes his greatest accomplishment is being a husband and father. When he does have free time, he likes to spend it with his daughter either flying or talking about flying. Josh and his family are very involved in their church youth group, Girl Scouts and Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). “We just hosted our first fly in, and it was a huge success,” Josh says. His goal for 2017 is to get his check ride completed for his private pilot certificate.

• “I enjoy a good joke or prank.

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Eric Ethridge 034 ALT Magazine | January 2017

videographer and media manager • Eric is a wedding Videographer as well as Media Manager for the City of Texarkana, Arkansas. On weekdays Eric is usually recording events and creating content to be used on the city’s website and TV channel. On the weekends, he is usually attending a wedding or city related event and then editing the footage. “Some people say that weddings are a waste of money because you spend so much and then it’s over in just a few hours, but that’s not true if you have a great wedding video,” Eric says. “I capture the moments that can be re-lived over and over again. We are the first generation that will be able to show our grandkids video of our weddings, and I think everyone needs to take advantage of that.”

• Eric and his wife, Tonya, spend their free time experiencing adventure travel. In the past three years, they have rafted 100 miles in the Grand Canyon, hiked Angel’s Landing and the Zion Narrows, rafted the Rio Pacuare in Costa Rica and climbed glaciers in Alaska.

• “Take full advantage of whatever opportunities come your way,” Eric says.

“Know when to be principled and when to be pragmatic and surround yourself with positive influences. Use your passion or your talent to your greatest asset.

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Texarkana, TX Police officer • Colten is a police officer with Texarkana, Texas Police Department, and he was given the Officer of the Year award for 2016.

Colten’s father, a Texas State Trooper, has been an important influence in his life, and Colten grew up hearing stories about law enforcement. “I’ve always wanted to serve and help people and make a difference in my community,” Colten says.

• On the job, Colten has many memorable and exciting moments. His goals for 2017 are to excel in law enforcement and learn more about the profession.

• When he’s not in uniform, Colten enjoys hunting, working out and being outdoors. His faith in God is also a big part of his life. “I wake up every day and ask myself what I could do better on this day than I did the day before,” Colten says. “I have a lot of faith in God, and I truly believe He’s the reason for who I am and where I’m at today. There’s times when my faith isn’t as strong as I know it should be, but He’ll never give up on me, and with that in mind, I know anything is possible.”

Colten Wayne Johnson 036 ALT Magazine | January 2017

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Farm Bureau Insurance Agent • Coy is married to Amber and has a son, Drew, and a daughter, Gentry Blair, on the way. He is an insurance agent with Farm Bureau Insurance and finished #15 for Insurance Producer of the Year in 2015 out of all 11 states they cover. “The most gratifying thing about the insurance business is when a disaster happens and we are able to get our customers back on their feet,” Coy says.

• When he isn’t working, Coy enjoys spending time with his family, going to the gym, working outside on the family farm and playing basketball. The best advice he ever received was from his mother who told him to “always put God first in his life.”

• Coy believes that to accomplish great things, you have to set big goals, which is why his goal is to double the size of his current insurance business in the next ten years by putting his customers first.

“Their word of mouth is key,” Coy says. “To be successful in whatever business you are in or choose to pursue, you have to set some goals, create a plan to achieve them and then consistently work that plan day to day.”

Coy steven Mason 038 ALT Magazine | January 2017

ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 039

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Jason Matthew Michel 040 ALT Magazine | January 2017

endodontist • When describing his family, Jason says, “I would say we are animal lovers. Between my wife, daughter and myself we have 4 dogs, 1 horse, 1 bearded dragon and a fish tank.”

• Though Jason puts in many hours as an endodontist and owner of Texarkana Endodontics, he works to balance work and family. He strives to stay on the cutting edge of technology and techniques in his field, and he is proud to announce that his practice has been selected to become one of the first users of GentleWave® Multisonic Ultraclean ™ system in Northeast Texas. However, he also makes sure to spend every Saturday morning taking his daughter and her horse to their riding lesson.

• After graduating dental school, Jason took a direct commission into the US Army. While stationed at Fort Hood, he volunteered to fill the spot of Endodontist and the Officer in Charge of the clinic. He ended up loving the field and applied to speciality training. He got word of his acceptance while he was deployed in Iraq. “I consider my greatest accomplishment to be serving in the US Army doing my part to help protect the freedom our country enjoys and serving alongside my brothers/sisters in arms,” Jason says.

Root Canal? No Worries!

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Over 15 million root canal procedures are completed in the United States to save infected or damaged teeth. The GentleWave® System represents an innovative, minimally invasive way of cleaning root canals using the breakthrough Multisonic Ultracleaning™ technology. Dr. Michel stated, “We are always looking for advancements that will improve our ability to deliver exceptional patient care. We are excited to now offer the GentleWave System procedure to our patients.”

tion of broad spectrum sound energy and advanced fluid dynamics that reach throughout the tooth structure and result in a remarkable level of clean.

Tissue, debris and bacteria are virtually eliminated, even in the microscopic tubules that traditional methods cannot reach, preserving vital tooth structure, providing unprecedented disinfection, and delivering a level of clean that has not been achievable until now.

GentleWave patient, L. Resetco stated “My GentleWave experience was great! It was amazingly fast and easy, and I had no pain. What great technology.”

To learn more about the benefits of the GentleWave difference, and to read more patient testimonials, please visit www. gentlewave.com.

The GentleWave System provides a powerful combina-

Helping Your Dentist Relieve Pain & Preserve Natural Teeth Dr. Jason M. Michel, DDS 1726 Galleria Oaks Dr., Texarkana, TX | 903.793.7411

SPECIALIZING IN ROOT CANALS!

www.texarkanaendo.com ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 041

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Kristin Peeples

chief financial officer for city texarkana, tx • Kristin has been married to Lane for 8 years, and they have a two and a half year old son, Hollis. On the weekends, Kristin enjoys watching Fixer Upper, completing DIY projects around the house and spending time with family. “Since my son was born, everyone tells me how quickly time goes. And it’s true, it does,” Kristin says. “I am taking time to enjoy this stage of life and watching him grow and learn new things every day.”

• She is the Chief Financial Officer for the City of Texarkana, Texas. “I love what I do. I am a numbers person and have always enjoyed math. Numbers are pretty black and white, and as long as you know how to work through the problem, there is always a solution at the end,” Kristin says. The most memorable moment of Kristin’s career was when the City of Texarkana, Texas received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the first time from the Government Finance Officers Association for the Fiscal Year 2016 budget document.

• One of Kristin’s long term goals is to become a Certified Government Finance Officer (CGFO) through the Government Finance Officers Association. In the meantime, though, she wants to “relax a little more and enjoy the moment.”

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ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 043

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bettye Marilyn Richardson 044 ALT Magazine | January 2017

Artist and Muralist • Bettye is a semi-retired artist, muralist, and, more recently, a painter of pianos. She would describe herself as “funny, sarcastic and creative.”

She enjoys creating art because she loves to make something out of nothing or turn something mundane into something beautiful.

“When I’m having a difficult spot in painting, I ask God to let my hand be His hand...for just a minute, and He fixes it.

It’s amazing.”

• Bettye counts raising “delightful children” and painting “a million miles one-half inch at a time” as her greatest accomplishments.

“Back to back, the strokes might circle the globe,” Bettye says.

• One of Bettye’s memorable moments in her art career was being chosen as a featured artist for Party with Picassos a few years ago.

She also works with Art for Downtown, and she is partnering with Beverly Rowe of Lindsey Railroad Museum to paint a series of “Play Me” street pianos that will be rolled outside during festivals or other downtown activities for people to enjoy. “The most important thing about art is the legacy it leaves,” Bettye says. “All the canvases and walls, furniture, buildings and other weird things I’ve painted will live on and hopefully be enjoyed, and all the artists I’ve been fortunate enough to teach and learn from will encourage and teach the next generation.”

WE OFFER PROFESSIONAL WINDOW CLEANING SERVICES AND POWER WASHING SERVICES, JUST IN TIME FOR THE NEW YEAR!

EMERGENCY SERVICES

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Owner of Wingstop • Doug is the owner of Wingstop in Texarkana, a locally owned business with “awesome wings and outstanding fries.” He had always dreamed of opening his own business. “When Tommy and Jana Hicks proposed the opportunity for me to achieve my life dream, there was never a doubt in my mind this was the right path to take,” Doug says.

“The most important aspect of our business is making sure the atmosphere and food is of high quality for the customers.” Now, Doug dreams of expanding his endeavors with Wingstop and is opening another store in Hot Springs, AR. • Doug is married to Lisa and they have two children, Lauren and Drew. When he’s not working, his favorite pastime is spending time with his family. He’s also an avid collector of Coca Cola and trains and is involved with community organizations like Partners in Education with local schools and the Knights of Columbus.

• “My greatest accomplishment is being able to support my family and provide opportunities for my employees,” Doug says. “My advice to others would be to never fear the future because your dreams are in reach.”

Douglas A. Sloan, Sr.

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JASON SMITH 048 ALT Magazine | January 2017

PGISD SUPERINTENDENT • Jason, the Superintendent of Pleasant Grove High School, considers one of his proudest accomplishments being able to date Jodie Reed in high school. He is now married to Jodie and is father to their son, Reed. When Jason isn’t working, he enjoys spending time with them, playing basketball, reading and watching pro-football games.

Family is important to him as he strives to be “the spiritual leader my wife and son need me to be.”

• Jason always wanted to be a teacher. “I consider myself blessed to have been called into education. I know that most teachers I work with feel the same way,” Jason says. “All of my memorable moments in education include students excelling academically far beyond what most adults expected them to do.” As an administrator, Jason’s decisions go through two filters. “First, ‘What is in the best interest of our students?’ and secondly, ‘Does it honor our staff?’ Jason says. “Each day I work with 200 plus employees modeling and coaching how to apply these filters in every decision they make.”

• “My goal for 2017 is to communicate all the wonderful student accomplishments occurring at Pleasant Grove ISD to as many people as I can get to listen. The foundation of our democratic values depends on public education,” Jason says.

Now Open 511 E. 51st Street Texarkana, AR 71854

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ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 049

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Ramzi Renee Smith 050 ALT Magazine | January 2017

High school student • Ramzi is a student at Redwater High School. She plans to attend Northeast Texas Community College for two years and then transfer to Ouachita Baptist University. She wants to major in biology and eventually pursue orthodontics. “I’m obsessed with pretty teeth,” Ramzi says.

“So I might as well pursue a job that I know I will love.”

• At school Ramzi takes multiple college and advanced classes. Then after school, she goes to practice for either cross country, volleyball, basketball or, her favorite, softball. She was chosen for the Texas All-State All Star Team and received a full ride to play softball in college. Her goals for 2017 are to graduate top 5 in her class and adjust to living a collegiate athlete life successfully.

• Ramzi’s personal idol is her “amazing mother” who is a nurse, respiratory therapist and the organizer of the dog rescue, Passion for Pooches.

“The most important thing about this rescue is how much time, effort, and love we put into the rescue and the dogs that come through it.”

• “The best advice I have ever received is when my mom told me, ‘Someone that succeeds in life is that person who gets up one more time than they are knocked down,’” Ramzi says.

Elite, RealtorsÂŽ Amber Gideon

Cell (903) 277-9930 Office (903) 832-2486 4321 Mcknight Rd, Texarkana, Texas 75503

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amber.gideon@coldwelltexarkana.com

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ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 051

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Marie Parish Stone

Head Softball coach at Texas A&M University Texarkana • Marie is the head softball coach for Texas A&M University - Texarkana. She learned her work ethic from her mother, a teacher, and her father, a high school football coach. “Coaching softball and being an educator are both things I am passionate about.

Growing up around a family of educators influenced my decision. It is extremely rewarding to watch these young ladies grow and transition into young women and fulfill their own personal goals,” Marie says.

• In 2017, Marie wants to build a softball program that Texas A&M University - Texarkana and the community can be proud of. She plans to recruit a team of quality studentathletes who are the right fit both in academics and athletics. Since moving to Texarkana, she also wants to join Women for A&M Texarkana and the young professionals group as well as get involved with the local youth softball association.

• “A business becomes great in my opinion when everyone has the same vision and communication,” Marie says.

“This is one of the trademarks I have noticed about TAMUT! Everyone cares about each other, and we all have the same vision.”

The new generation of emergency care.

Leigh Ann Scates – Director of Nursing Leigh Ann began her nursing career in 1995 working as an LVN at a local hospital. She went on to become an RN working in the Emergency Department. Her family moved to Fort Worth in 2002 where she worked as a Trauma Nurse Coordinator at a Level 2 Trauma Center. While there she gained a passion for leadership and education.

In 2007 Leigh Ann returned to Texarkana with her husband and two children and began working as the Trauma Coordinator at the same hospital where she began her career. While there she started the trauma program and successful obtained a Level 3 trauma designation in Texas and Arkansas. She is a TNCC and ENPC instructor, involved in injury prevention and serves on the regions Mobile Medical response team.

She is active in her community volunteering at church, school and local charities. Being a nurse allows Leigh Ann to help others in their time of need and is very rewarding to her. She likes knowing that she is a part of something that makes a difference in the lives of others.

Centrally located East of Central Mall 4646 Cowhorn Creek Texarkana, TX 75503 | 903.838.8000 FIND US ON

TexarkanaEmergencyCenter.com

The physicians and staff at Texarkana Emergency Center appreciate the opportunity to have served the Texarkana community for the past year. We appreciate your support and look forward to serving ALT-Mag.com | you January 2017future.

053 in the

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Jessica Elaine Vickers

Photographer and makeup artist • Jessica is the owner of Jessica Vickers Photography and Makeup Artistry. “When I was twelve years old, a very special photographer did my makeup and took headshots of me for a local pageant. I remembered how beautiful she made me feel, and since then all I’ve ever wanted is to make others feel the way I did that day,” Jessica says.

• When she’s not scouting out perfect photography locations, building playlists for her client’s sessions, or editing images, Jessica’s favorite thing to do is pour a cup of coffee and hop on the couch with a good book.

She also enjoys time with her fiance, “the most supportive man on the planet” and her Siberian husky. In the fall, she goes hunting at their deer lease, “You learn a lot about yourself in the great outdoors.”

• She considers her greatest accomplishment to be the time she was published in a national photography magazine, but in her daily work, Jessica feels proud to not only do something she is passionate about, but to leave her clients feeling beautiful, inside and out. “I believe the most important thing about not only business, but life in general, is how you treat people and the impression you leave on them. I only want mine to be positive,” Jessica says.

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Eric Dwayne Voyles

Executive vice president/ chief economic development officer at texamericas center • Eric has been married to his college sweetheart Kristine for 22 years, and they have three sons: Jacob, Zachary and Nicholas. They are also the proud owners of three dogs: Scout, Star and Belle.

When Eric isn’t working, he enjoys hunting, fishing and camping, but for the last 15 years, most of his free time has been spent investing in his boys as a baseball coach or sports fan.

• Eric’s job as Executive Vice President/Chief Economic Development Officer at TexAmericas Center means that he has the ability to “help people improve their life and the lives of their loved ones by making the community a better place for businesses to invest.”

• In the next ten years, Eric has big goals. He wants to take his wife on her dream vacation, see all of his boys graduate with the degrees they choose, pursue another degree or certification and still work for TexAmericas to expand investments and job opportunities. “The advice I have for others is to know what you want to achieve or where you want to go,’” Eric says. “I had to memorize this quote in college when I joined my fraternity, Sigma Pi, and it has guided me much of my life. ‘Any port of call will do for a ship with no charted course or destination.’”

Janet Green S ER

CHOIC

Thank you

AWARDS

ALT

E

Thank You!

READ

Interior Design

2016

maga

zine

for voting us

Best Wedding Attire!

for voting me ALT Magazine’s Best Decorator/ Designer in Texarkana Three years in a row!

Office : 903.831.6617 Cell : 903.826.2540

4205 Richmond Place , Texarkana, TX 75503 www.janetgreeninteriordesign.com

4038 Summerhill Rd | Texarkana, TX 75503 | (903)793-1570 TraditionsBridalandFormal.com

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3900 St. Michael Drive Texarkana, | 1-430-200-0742 | ResidenceInnTexarkana.com 3900 St.|Michael Drive |TX 75503 Texarkana, TX 75503 | 1-430-200-0742 | ResidenceInnTexarkana.com ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 057

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Amy Michele Wiley

Owner of the Rancher's Wife • Amy is the owner of The Rancher’s Wife Boutique that has locations in both Texarkana and Terrell. One of Amy’s biggest goals with her stores is keeping a boutique atmosphere with affordable prices. “We love our customers, so we always want to have a small town family like feel when you visit us,” Amy says. “Opening our very first store was a game changer for us; I was finally given the chance to put in the work and show what I was capable of. Another great moment has to be opening our second location; it showed all the effort we had put into the business and really showed we were capable of growth.”

• Even though Amy is a wife, a mother of a two-year-old and runs two boutiques and a warehouse, she always makes it home to eat with her family. “Being a mother, hands down, is my proudest accomplishment,” Amy says. “My son teaches and reminds me so much of the importance in life and family every single day.”

• Amy loves to watch Fixer Upper, so it makes sense that her favorite pastime is remodeling the fixer upper that she and her husband purchased. “Working on our home is something we do as a family,” Amy says.

We welcome all levels from beginners to advanced students.

We offer cool, warm and hot sessions.

7 days a week.

It's never too late to start!

Never too old and Never too sick

( inhale, exhale, carry on )

u o Y k n Tha Texarkana for voting us

Best Yoga Studio

for TW0 years in a row!

2011 Mall Dr. Suite 5, Texarkana, TX | 903.949.0110

A Bride. A Groom. Historic!

Westridge Animal Hospital

3909 New Boston Rd. | Texarkana, TX | (903) 838-9572

, u o Y ank

Th

Texarkana, for voting us

Best Veterinarian Clinic

Let us lasso the ‘Moon for you.

We work hard for your Great Memories.

Unique Charm. Service Attitude. Flexible Hospitality.

Thank You For Voting Us The Best Indoor Wedding Venue In Texarkana Three Years In A Row! www.silvermoononbroad.com

903.792.0562 - Historic Downtown Texarkana - West Broad at Texas Blvd., Texarkana, TX ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 059

Save the Date

Fur Ball 2017

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•

INVESTMENT PROPERTY

SPRING INTO A GREAT RATE! If you’re thinking of buying a home, call me first to learn how much you might be qualified to borrow. Knowing the amount you can afford can put you in a stronger position when you negotiate your purchase contract.

Even if another lender has provided a quote, call me. We’ll perform an apples-to-apples comparison to ensure you are receiving the best financing for your situation. This is a complimentary service so there’s nothing to lose—and the straight facts to gain.

Call today to find out how much you can afford.

Jason Cree Branch Manager NMLS #209270 AR #17523 903-223-5632 office 903-277-2726 mobile jcree@SWBC.com www.jasoncree.com

Ask for your complimentary home buying booklet today. © 2014. SWBC. All rights reserved. 8540-4742 0314. Loans are subject to credit and property approval. Certain restrictions may apply. Programs and guidelines are subject to change without notice. Rates are subject to change daily. SWBC Mortgage Corporation.

NMLS #9741. Corporate ofiice located at 9311 San Pedro, SUite 100, San Antonio, TX 78216.

060 ALT Magazine | January 2017

Providing exceptional service to Texarkana and surrounding area borrowers for more than 15 years.

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u o Y k n ,

Garrison

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ThaTexarkana

Weddings & Receptions

for voting us

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mag

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DS

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for Voting Us the Best Outdoor Wedding Venue in Texarkana Three Years in a Row!

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www.garrisongardens.net | Texarkana, AR | 903.244.7644

Centrally located East of Central Mall

TexarkanaEmergencyCenter.com

The new generation of emergency care.

Thank you Texarkana!

Best: Wedding Cake

| Wedding Caterer | Lunch Spot

Runner Up: Desserts | Brunch | Business Lunch | Caterer

4055 Summerhill Square | 903.792.3354 | juliesdeli.com ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 061

Tasty Donuts

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY! REGULAR TICKET PRICES: $40 $29 $17

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

Ragtime

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2017, 7:30 PM Historic Perot Theatre | Concert Preview at 6:40PM | Marc-André Bougie, Conducting

FEATURING :

Scott Kirby, pianist Candace Taylor, vocalist Texarkana Jazz Orchestra

CONCERT SPONSORS

Martha and Josh Morriss Mike and Pete Mankins Gale H. Arnold REPERTOIRE INCLUDES : Yvonne Clements Scott Joplin: Candace Taylor

Overture from Treemonisha and Rag Suite for Solo Piano & Orchestra

Conlon Nancarrow:

From this Moment On Scott Kirby

Cole Porter: Love for Sale

RK

A

Bart Howard:

TEXAR of

NA KA

I Loves You Porgy

P R O U D LY S U P P O R T E D I N PA R T BY: CITY

George Gershwin:

A NSA

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Boogie-Woogie Suite

PEROT THEATRE BOX OFFICE: 903.792.4992

texarkanasymphony.org

NOW OPEN IN TWO LOCATIONS!!

1443 N. Kings Hwy. 903. 838. 0422

K-Mart Shopping Center 903. 223. 0149

Donuts are ALWAYS the Answer!

Moxibustion

Oriental Medicine: Laser

Uses Light Amplification

by Stimulated Emmision of Radiation known to reduce swelling and pain

Moxa Punk is burned on or above the skin at acupuncture points. It can be more effective than acupuncture

MicroCurrent Therapy

Uses extremely small amounts of electrical current to help relieve pain and heal soft tissue of the body

Cupping

Suction cup method used to help circulation and reduce swelling

Tui Na

Chinese style physical therapy or massage

Oriental Medicine

or TCM is used in both acute and chronic illnesses and it includes internal and external therapy.

619 East 6th Street Texarkana, AR 71854 Contact us at 870-772-8622 or www.NorthfieldClinic.net 062 ALT Magazine | January 2017

R

READE

S RD

C I E O A H WA C S

2017 s r e n n i W

ALT magazine

ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 063

Goods & Services

APARTMENT COMPLEX WINNER:

Arista Apartment Homes RUNNER UP: LEGACY AT PLEASANT GROVE APARTMENTS

AUTO SERVICE & TIRES WINNER:

Discount Wheel & Tire RUNNER UP: COOPER TIRE & SERVICE

AUTO STEREO & ACCESSORIES WINNER:

Sound Towne, Inc. RUNNER UP: BEST BUY

BAND WINNER:

Jawbone

RUNNER UP: CROOKED HALO

BANK WINNER:

Bancorp South RUNNER UP: FARMER’S BANK & TRUST

CHILDREN’S CLOTHING WINNER:

Knuckleheads N’ Prissy Tails RUNNER UP: GRAHAM CRACKERS

CLEANERS WINNER:

Holiday Cleaners RUNNER UP: FASHION CLEANERS

N W A P l a e R The s r a t S

1200 GUNS IN STOCK!

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST PAWN SHOP IN Texarkana!

Paul Dickson 30 Years

Bill Duffer 18 Years

Ricky Collins 11 Years

Zoe Duffer 2 Years

Reggie Galloway 13 Years

Barbara Duffer 15 Years

Joe Thomas 6 Years

95 Years total experience!

TRI-STATE PAWN & JEWELRY

1804 N. State Line • Texarkana, AR 71854 • 870.772.7492

ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 065

COMPUTER REPAIR/SERVICE COMPANY WINNER:

SmartPhone EMT RUNNER UP: TRI-STATE COMPUTER REPAIR

CREDIT UNION WINNER:

Red River Federal Credit Union RUNNER UP: TEXAR FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

EMERGENCY CARE WINNER:

Texarkana Emergency Center RUNNER UP: NEIGHBORS EMERGENCY CENTER

FITNESS CENTER/GYM WINNER:

Anytime Fitness/Richmond Rd. RUNNER UP: CHRISTUS ST. MICHAEL HEALTH & FITNESS CENTER

FURNITURE WINNER: PASSWORD. TEXT. BANDAGE? 23% of smartphone owners have continued to use their phone despite cutting their finger on the broken screen. www.digitaltrends.com

Four States Furniture RUNNER UP: OAK CREEK FURNITURE

GARDEN STORE/LANDSCAPING WINNER:

H&N Landscaping RUNNER UP: FREEMAN’S

GIFT SHOP WINNER:

Persnickety Too RUNNER UP: FAN FARE GIFTS

Humbled to be Selected for Texarkana’s BEST Computer Repair/ Service Company!

Fixing Broken Phones & Broken Hearts

We Love our Customers!

3408 Richmond Rd. | Texarkana, Tx, 75503 | (903)-255-0559

ou Y k n Tha

Now Open in Summerhill Square!

for voting us

ALT Magazine’s Best Women’s Clothing 903-691-9675 www.trwboutique.com The Rancher’s Wife Boutique @trwboutique

THANK YOU!! ou y k han

T

FOR VOTING US BEST HOME BUILDER/HOME IMPROVEMENT IN READER’S CHOICE!

Texarkana, For voting us

Best Children’s Clothing!

We make clothing for your little adventurers, scientists, fashionistas, explorers & even knuckleheads & Prissy Tails!

2400 Richmond Rd. Suite 39 Texarkana, Texas 75503 (903) 831-0035

903-831-0101 NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION • HOME ADDITIONS KITCHENS & BATHROOM REMODELING CABINETRY & WOODWORKS • ROOFING 421 Industrial Blvd. www.JimmyAndersonConstruction.com Nash, TX 75569 JAndersonProject@yahoo.com ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 067

GROCERY STORE WINNER:

Albertsons

RUNNER UP: WALMART NEIGHBORHOOD MARKET/RICHMOND RD.

GUN STORE WINNER:

Legendary Firearms RUNNER UP: COWBOY GUNS

1364 The year the use of a firearm was first recorded. www.pbs.org

HOME BUILDER/HOME IMPROVEMENT WINNER:

Jimmy Anderson Construction RUNNER UP: LONE STAR CUSTOM HOMES

INVESTMENT ADVISOR WINNER:

Ron Mills/Bancorp South RUNNER UP: DUSTIN STRINGER WEALTH MANAGEMENT

JEWELER WINNER:

Micah’s Jewelers RUNNER UP: CROCKER’S JEWELERS

LIQUOR STORE WINNER:

Chubby Cheeks Liquor RUNNER UP: THE PARTY FACTORY

LOCAL PHARMACY WINNER:

Red River Pharmacy Services RUNNER UP: PLEASANT GROVE PHARMACY

068 ALT Magazine | January 2017

MANUFACTURER WINNER:

Cooper Tire & Rubber Company RUNNER UP: MAYO MANUFACTURING CORPORATION

NEW LOCAL BUSINESS WINNER:

Texarkana Emergency Center RUNNER UP: LAGNIAPPE SPECIALTY MEATS

PAWN SHOP WINNER:

Tri-State Pawn & Jewelry RUNNER UP: SUPERIOR PAWN & GUN

RETIREMENT/ASSISTED LIVING WINNER:

Cornerstone Retirement Living RUNNER UP: COWHORN CREEK ESTATES

SHOES & BOOTS WINNER:

Racquet & Jog RUNNER UP: CAVENDER’S BOOT CITY

SALON WINNER:

Style Studio RUNNER UP: FRINGE SALON

SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE BY COMPANY ORGANIZATION WINNER:

Texarkana Emergency Center RUNNER UP: TXK TODAY

THE WORD “PAWN” is derived fromt he Latin ’pignus’ for “pledge,” and the items having been pawned to the broker are themselves called pledges or pawns (collateral). www.secondhandtips.com

SPA WINNER: $1,650,500,000 Annual amount of U.S. spending on tattoos www.statisticbrain.com

Beauty and Wellness Center RUNNER UP: SANCTUARY MEDICAL SPA

TATTOO ARTIST WINNER:

Jason Standridge RUNNER UP: NATHAN “BUM” BIDDLE

URGENT EMERGENCY CARE WINNER:

HealthCare Express RUNNER UP: EXCEED URGENT CARE

VETERINARIAN CLINIC WINNER:

Westridge Animal Hospital RUNNER UP: WISDOM ANIMAL CLINIC

WOMEN’S CLOTHING WINNER: TIE!

Gayle’s The Rancher’s Wife Boutique RUNNER UP: DRESSIN GAUDY

YOGA STUDIO WINNER:

Community

Texarkana Yoga RUNNER UP: FWD FIT

CHARITY EVENT WINNER:

1st Choice Pregnancy Center Walk/Run RUNNER UP: RACE FOR THE CURE

070 ALT Magazine | January 2017

Thank you! for voting us

Best Women’s Clothing Store

for voting us as Best Spa and

in ALT Magazine’s Reader’s Choice Awards!

Dr. David Whitten as Best Cosmetic Surgeon!

Thank you for your support!

903.831.5659 5303 Cowhorn Creek | Texarkana, TX 75503 www.TexasBodySculpting.com

903.831.5659 5303 Cowhorn Creek | Texarkana, TX 75503 www.TexasBodySculpting.com

From the Drusy Collection

4059 Summerhill Square | Texarkana, TX | 903-792-0056 AbbyGaylesTexarkana | Gayle’s & Abby Gayle’s

ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 071

COMPANY TO WORK FOR WINNER:

Wadley Regional Medical Center RUNNER UP: TRAHC

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION WINNER:

Weddings

C.A.S.A.

RUNNER UP: RANDY SAMS HOMELESS SHELTER

WEDDING ATTIRE WINNER:

Traditions Bridal & Formal RUNNER UP: BRIDAL CASTLE TUXEDO PALACE

WEDDING CAKE WINNER:

Julie’s Deli & Market RUNNER UP: TWISTED FORK GRILL & BAR

WEDDING CATERER WINNER:

Julie’s Deli & Market RUNNER UP: CHEF ON THE RUN CATERING

WEDDING DJ WINNER:

Fabienne Thrash RUNNER UP: VERNON HINESLEY

WEDDING FLORIST WINNER:

Sticks & Stones on the Blvd.

RUNNER UP: PERSNICKETY TOO

072 ALT Magazine | January 2017

WEDDING INDOOR VENUE WINNER:

The Silvermoon on Broad

RUNNER UP: HILTON GARDEN INN TEXARKANA HOTEL AND CONVENTION CENTER

WEDDING OUTDOOR VENUE WINNER:

Garrison Gardens RUNNER UP: RAMAGE FARMS WEDDINGS

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY WINNER:

Jessica Vickers Photography RUNNER UP: KENDAL DOCKERY PHOTOGRAPHY

WEDDING RENTALS WINNER:

Dot’s Rentals & Sales RUNNER UP: ELEGANT EVENTS BY CECE

WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHER WINNER:

Eric’s Xtreme Video RUNNER UP: FRESH FOCUS FILMS

BBQ WINNER:

Wine & Dine

Naaman’s Championship BBQ RUNNER UP: BIG JAKE’S BAR-B-QUE

DESSERTS WINNER:

SmallCakes

RUNNER UP: JULIE’S DELI & MARKET ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 073

FRIED CHICKEN WINNER:

Chicken Express RUNNER UP: SLIM CHICKENS

HAMBURGER WINNER:

Reggie’s

RUNNER UP: 30 BURGER

PIZZA WINNER:

IF ALL HAMBURGERS eaten by Americans in a year are arranged in a straight line, it would circle our Earth 32 times or more! www.factslegend.org

Gusanos Chicago Style Pizzeria RUNNER UP: LARRY’S PIZZA

MEXICAN WINNER:

Zapata Mexican Grill & Cantina RUNNER UP: TA MOLLY’S

STEAKHOUSE WINNER:

Texas Roadhouse RUNNER UP: PARK PLACE

WINE LIST WINNER:

Twisted Fork Grill & Bar RUNNER UP: PARK PLACE

WINGS WINNER:

Wingstop

074 ALT Magazine | January 2017

RUNNER UP: BUFFALO WILD WINGS

THANK

Y

OU TEXAR K YOUR ANA FOR VOTE

!

op

Sh t f i tG

Bes

per • snick • et • y attention to detail requiring great precision

(430) 200-0854 | www.persnicketytoo.com www.facebook.com/persnicketytoo

3412 Richmond Rd (Across from Ace Hardware) Texarkana, TX 75503 ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 075

BREAKFAST WINNER:

Texas Chuck Wagon RUNNER UP: SHORTY’S DONUTS

BRUNCH WINNER:

Hopkins Icehouse RUNNER UP: JULIE’S DELI & MARKET

BUSINESS LUNCH WINNER: THE WORD BREAKFAST literally refers to breaking the fasting period of the prior night.

Ironwood Grill RUNNER UP: JULIE’S DELI & MARKET

www.mobile-cuisine.com

DATE NIGHT RESTAURANT WINNER:

Pecan Point Brewing Co. RUNNER UP: ZAPATA MEXICAN GRILL & CANTINA

GOURMET DINNER WINNER:

Twisted Fork Grill & Bar RUNNER UP: PARK PLACE

HAPPY HOUR WINNER:

On the Border Mexican & Grill & Cantina RUNNER UP: ZAPATA MEXICAN GRILL & CANTINA

LOCALLY OWNED RESTAURANT WINNER:

Twisted Fork Grill & Bar RUNNER UP: SCOTTIE’S GRILL

076 ALT Magazine | January 2017

Kelli Ashbrook You, k n a Th ana, k r a x Te

for voting us

Best Insurance Agent!

Thank you

for voting us Best Desserts in ALT Magazine’s 2017 Reader’s Choice Awards!

3626 Richmond Rd | Texarkana, Texas | (903) 223-0533

3410 Moores Lane | Texarkana, TX 75503 (903)-223-8100

kelli@kelliashbrook.com

ALT

Chef on the Run

mag

azin

AR AW DS

DE EA RS R

O CH ICE

2016

e

THANK YOU Texarkana for Voting Us

Wine List, Gourmet Dinner, Locally Owned Restaurant, Caterer and Best Chef - Jeff Loving

Get Totally Twisted

private parties | special events | live music | gourmet treatment | catering | pastry chef

Happy Hour 5pm-7pm

(430) 200-2775 | twistedforktxk.com | 5522 Summerhill Road | Owner/Chef Jeff Loving 903.276.8081 | jeffploving@hotmail.com | chefjeffontherun.com ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 077

LUNCH SPOT WINNER:

Julie’s Deli & Market RUNNER UP: ZAPATA MEXICAN GRILL & CANTINA

OUTDOOR DINING WINNER:

Scottie’s Grill RUNNER UP: IRONWOOD GRILL

CATERER WINNER: MAGICIAN Harry Houdini was once a locksmith!

Chef on the Run Catering RUNNER UP: JULIE’S DELI & MARKET

CHEF WINNER:

People

Jeff Loving

RUNNER UP: AMANDA HORTON

ARTIST WINNER:

Mary Jane Orr RUNNER UP: KAY RICHARDSON

CHIROPRACTOR WINNER:

Woosley Chiropractic Clinic RUNNER UP: DR. CRIS BOOKOUT

COSMETIC SURGEON WINNER:

David Whitten/Beauty and Wellness Center RUNNER UP: DR. RACHAEL KEILIN

078 ALT Magazine | January 2017

DECORATOR/DESIGNER WINNER:

Janet Green RUNNER UP: KYLE BARRETT

DENTIST WINNER:

Mitchell Glass/Pediatric Dentistry RUNNER UP: JASON M. MICHEL

ELECTRICIAN WINNER:

ArTex Electric/Service First Pro Electrical & Plumbing

A POLL ASKED READERS if they brush before or after they floss. The results were close: 53% said they brush before, while 47% said after. www.mouthhealthy.org

RUNNER UP: R&W ELECTRIC

INSURANCE AGENT WINNER:

Kelli Ashbrook/State Farm RUNNER UP: COY MASON/MILLER COUNTY FARM BUREAU AGENT

LOCKSMITH WINNER:

Pop-A-Lock

RUNNER UP: ADVANCED LOCKING SYSTEMS

OB-GYN WINNER:

Dr. Jennifer Thompson RUNNER UP: DR. KENNETH WEST

ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 079

OPTOMETRIST WINNER:

Dr. Mark Allen/ Vision Source RUNNER UP: JEFF PHILLIPS/THE EYE GUYS

PEDIATRICIAN WINNER:

Dr. Cindy Porter/ Collom and Carney

RUNNER UP: DR. CLARK GREEN/COLLOM AND CARNEY

PHOTOGRAPHER WINNER: EACH OF YOUR EYES has a small blind spot in the back of the retina where the optic nerve attaches.

You don’t notice the hole in your vision because your eyes work together to fill in each other’s blind spot. www.vsp.com

Kate Reynolds Photography RUNNER UP: JESSICA VICKERS PHOTOGRAPHY

REALTOR WINNER:

Tracy Spradlin/Impact Realty Group RUNNER UP: SARAH SEALY/GRIFFIN REALTORS

VOLUNTEER WINNER:

Lynn Whitt RUNNER UP: PAULA HAWKINS

ALT 080 ALT Magazine | January 2017

Because it’s the little things that matter...

Thank you for voting me as ALT Magazine’s

Best Pediatrician in Texarkana!

Dr. Cindy R. Porter, MD | Board Certified Pediatrician Collom & Carney Clinic | 5002 Cowhorn Creek 903-614-3211 | Fax: 903-614-3590

Texarkana

and surrounding area...

It’s been an honor and a privilege to work with you for the past 19 years. Thank you for your support and confidence and I look forward to many more years of caring for your vision needs.

• Glasses and Contact Lenses • Kids Vision • Eye Disease Diagnosis, Treatment and Management

4401 Galleria Oaks Drive | 903-838-9063

Transforming Lives Through Vision Working with children and adults who have vision problems that interfere with reading, learning, comprehension and even attention.

How to know if your child should be evaluated at Texarkana Vision Therapy: • Struggles or under performs in school • Has ADD, dyslexia or a learning problem • Has headaches after reading or other near work, even if grades are good • Loses place frequently when reading • Gets sleepy after reading for a few minutes • Can’t comprehend what he/she read • Learns better by hearing than by seeing • Is uncoordinated or clumsy, making sports difficult • Thinks he/she is not as smart as his/her friends • Brings the “homework war” home after school

Texarkana Vision Therapy

3304 Richmond Road | 430-200-0036 ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 081

Fish Tales with Mike Brower Don’t Let Cold Kill You Now is when it starts getting cold. With water temps below 55 degrees coupled with air temps in the “why am I out here” levels and add in some wind, we need to consider the arch nemesis of cold weather fishing called hypothermia. We all know how it can become an issue, so let’s look at the symptoms and what to do if you come across someone suffering from it.

The early signs to look for include, shivering, dizziness, nausea, trouble speaking, confusion and lack of coordination. These early signs mean you need to get warm before it becomes a life or death issue. Being dry and cold is one thing but being wet after falling overboard takes the situation to a much higher level. As the situation gets worse you will stop shaking, speech becomes more slurred.

Drowsiness and a weak pulse mean things have gotten out of hand and you are now in a full blown emergency, things need to happen fast to warm back up. Since we will be on the water if hypothermia happens, here are some things to consider in treating the problem.

• If they are wet get them dry and in dry clothes.

• Use hand warmers under the armpits and groin area.

• Get the person to a warm environment ASAP. I carry several chemical warmers as well as a towel, change of clothes size 2XL as well as an extra jacket also 2XL with me all winter. The reason for 2XL is because either you or the person suffering can get into larger clothes easier.

I have actually had to help myself and another person over the years. Both were cases of falling overboard in cold weather. So do your own research, learn how to treat hypothermia and don’t let yourself or someone else become a victim.

LEGE N D A R Y F irearms INDOOR SHOOTING RANGE

082 ALT Magazine | January 2017

903.336.6139

GIFT CERTIFICATES PRIVATE LESSONS CONCEALED HANDGUN CLASS RENTAL GUNS AVAILABLE

101 SLATON DR., NASH, TX NASH BUSINESS PARK OFF HWY 82.

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR UPDATES AND SPECIALS!

OPEN TUES-SAT: 10:00-7:00, SUN: 1:00-6:00

ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 083

LOCAL HOT SPOTS We’re sharing your stories! Anything and everything from local events around town to what you’re sharing on Facebook. We would love to hear from you.

Crank for Frank 11/20/16 Scottie’s Grill

Ginger Mitchell and Cody Moss

Canaan

Kosmic Girls and Frank Pryor Jr.

Dusty Rose Band

Julie Pryor, Frank Pryor Jr., and Logan Pryor

Gina Alden, Rylan, Sarah Cooper, Candy Springer, Robert Hewett and Lorie Hewett

Melinda Black, Clint Black, Taylor Smith, and James Nelson

Landon Mitchell 084 ALT Magazine | January 2017

Crooked Halo

Julie Pryor, Frank Pryor Jr., Andi Darby, Paula Derr, and Logan Pryor

Michele Kodran, Tommie Hickman, Chantel Nixon, and Frank Pryor Jr.

Slick Leo

Sandy Jackson and Kadence Salem

Frank Pryor Jr. and Cody Moss

Julie Pryor, Paula Derr, and Eli Splater

Rhett Mitchell

Frank Pryor Sr., Debbie Pirkey, Frank Pryor Jr., and Paula Derr

Marli Humphrey and Frank Pryor Jr.

Ginger Mitchell

Frank Pryor Jr.

ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 085

LOCAL HOT SPOTS We’re sharing your stories! Anything and everything from local events around town to what you’re sharing on Facebook. We would love to hear from you.

Annual Open House & Arts Market December 2 & 3 Regional Arts Center

Susan and Maddox Green

Remika Gray

Greg and Stacey Pardue

Audrey Young

Beverly Stone and Martha Stillwell

Jan Black, Ana Juanes and Rhonda Allen

Linda Grace

Joseph Raymond III and Sheila Osborne Wagnon

Deanna Craytor and Lynn Whitt

Jeanne Harrel

Cissy Smith and Donna Jackson

Lisa Clark and Jenny Dodez

Paulette McBride

Roger and Polly Tipton

086 ALT Magazine | January 2017

Women for A&M Texarkana Holiday Lunch Social December 1

Jeraldine Scott, Laura Spencer, Brittney Brookes, Janelle Ingram Regent Judy Morgan, Patsy Morriss, Sara Weber, Martha Prieskorn, Joan Carter, Mel Walsh, Blanca De la Fuente, Julie Sanderson

Amy Schulz, Mindy Day, Sara Weber

Jolly Woosley, Rosemary Hardy

Rosemary Hardy, Charlotte Potter, Jolly Woosley

Jon McCarty, LeAnne Wright Barbara Wilson-Whitney, Annette Dunn Patsy Morriss, Dr. Emily Cutrer, Caroline Craven

Jon McCarty, Robin Hickerson,

Courtney Boeckmann, Caroline Craven, Dr. Emily Cutrer, LeAnne Wright

Sara Weber, Charlotte Nyman, Flor Acuna

Judith White, Anneta Quinley, Lindsey Clark

Vicki Huckabee, Jo Melde, Courtney Boeckmann Diane Green, Need Name, Maggie Culbertson

Linda Grace, Jane Womack Remica Gray, Margaret Davis

Dolores, Sanda Shingles Mel Walsh, Sara Weber

Dr. Emily Cutrer, Patsy Morriss

Rhonda Allen, Regent Judy Morgan, FaEllen Yates

June Hatchett, Betty Hlavinka

Patricia Edwards, Gladys Stanley ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 087

FINANCIAL FOCUS

W/DUSTIN STRINGER

STRINGER WEA LTH M A NAGEMENT LPL FINA NCI A L StringerWealthManagement.net

WHEN A JOB DOESN’T COME WITH A 401(K).

Your dream job may be in retail or food service, but that career choice could mean your retirement takes a hit.

What makes saving for retirement a lot easier is access to a retirement plan through your job.

It’s even easier if your company enrolls people automatically – no one is obligated to stay in the plan, but most people realize that it’s great to see a retirement balance grow each month and few people actually opt-out.

The problem is, some jobs don’t offer workers a retirement plan. The amount of hours someone works and the type of industry can stand between a worker and

a 401(k).

In some industries – retail, recreation, hospitality and food service, among others – part-time work is more the norm.

Fewer hours, no plan Fewer than 3 in 10 workers who work fewer than 40 hours a week save for retirement through a workplace plan, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Sometimes access to the plan is the issue; other times barriers to participating stand in the employee’s way.

These workers save far less because of lower salaries and plan eligibility rules and it’s not only part-timers who struggle to save. Full-time workers also have smaller

January 7-January 13

Discovery Place , an Interactive Museum

215 Pine Street

Join us for a Saturday filled January here at the Texarkana Museums System!

January 21 Ace of Clubs House

10 am to 5 pm Tuesday - Saturday and 1 pm to 5 pm Sunday

Race for Planet X a Hands on Mobile Museum

January 14

historic downtown Texarkana, USA

MoPH - 219 N. Stateline Avenue

420 Pine Street

1 pm to 5:30 pm

11 am and 2 pm

Dr. John Tennison and Jereme Kennington Present:

Conservator Zoe Nakashian Presents:

PRESERVATION TECHNIQUES FOR YOUR PRIVATE COLLECTIONS 219 N State Line Ave Texarkana, Texas

088 ALT Magazine | January 2017

Why it is unwarranted to conclude youell swinney was the phantom killer

January 28 1 pm

P. J. AHERN HOME - 403 Laurel Street

a winter tea 903-793-4831

Information@TexarkanaMuseums.org

account balances.

Employees who work in industries with more weekly hours have account balances that are more than $5,000 greater than the median for those who work fewer hours.

Younger workers have no way to save The Census Bureau data also shows that it’s millennials and ethnic minorities who are likelier to work fewer hours. This also puts them at risk for getting to a secure retirement – because they’re also less likely to have access to a retirement plan.

The Government Accountability Office recently surveyed 80 401(k) plans and found that many have policies that keep workers from saving in the retirement plan.

Age is a factor, and one that definitely affects workers in the food industry. Nearly 40 percent of the companies have policies that don’t allow workers younger than age 21 to participate in the plan.

When a retirement plan is available, only half of workers who work in these industries take advantage of it. The number goes up for full-time workers to 61 percent – but that still lags behind the 78 percent of full-time workers in industries with more hours who take advantage of the workplace retirement plan.

Fifty-three percent of workers in lowerhour industries say eligibility is the reason they don’t participate. When people who work in industries that offer more hours, just 45 percent of them say eligibility keeps them from participating in the plan.

The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc. LPL Financial does not provide tax or legal advice.

The information contained in this report should be used for informational purposes only. The appropriate professionals should be consulted on all legal and accounting matters prior to or in conjunction with implementation of the plan.

Securities and Advisory Services Offered Through LPL Financial - A Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA / SIPC.

ALT

what’s on the AGENDA? JANUARY 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Saturday, January 7

Miss Texarkana Twin Rivers Pageant Texarkana Chamber of Commerce 6:00 p.m.

3941 Summerhill Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903-791-8733 For info visit www.mistexarkanatwinrivers.org

January 7-13

Discovery Place 215 Pine Street 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday

Saturday, January 28 P.J. Ahern Home 403 Laurel Street 1:00 p.m.

A Winter Tea

Saturday, January 28

Bridal Fair 2017 Texarkana Chamber of Commerce 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

2910 Cowhorn Loop Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903-293-9247

WANT TO ADD YOUR EVENT TO OUR MAGAZINE? SEND YOUR INFORMATION TO INFO@ALT-MAG.COM Saturday, January 28

Fourteenth Annual Phantom Ball Texarkana Chamber of Commerce 120 Bill Rogers Texarkana, TX 75503 Come join us at Northridge Country Club for the 14th Annual Phantom Ball.

Saturday, January 14

MoRH 219 N. State Line Ave. 1:00 p.m. until 5:30 p.m.

Dr. John Tennison and Jereme Kennington present Why it is Unarranted to Conclude Youell Swinney was the Phantom Killer

Friday, January 13

Annual Celebration Texarkana Chamber of Commerce 6:00 p.m.

Hilton Garden Inn and Texarkana Convention Center 2910 Cowhorn Creek Texarkana, TX 903-792-7191

Saturday, January 21

Ace of Clubs House 420 Pine Street 1:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Conservator Zoe Nakashian presents Preservation Techniques for your Private Collections

Tuesday, January 24

Ribbon Cutting - Elite Home Health Texarkana Chamber of Commerce 4:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Elite Home Health 1600 Arkansas Blvd., Suite 106 903-792-7191 ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 089

Pet Rescues

Local Rescues Adopt, Don’t Shop

ARK-LA-TEX ANIMAL RESCUE Facebook.com/Ark-La-Tex-Animal-Rescue-1712510318970169 ARKLATEX COCKER SPANIEL RESCUE Facebook.com/ArklatexCockerSpanielRescue ARTEX ANIMAL WELFARE, INC. (mostly horses) - 903.824.1990 ATLANTA ANIMAL LEAGUE Facebook.com/AtlantaAnimalLeague BOXER RESCUE OF TEXARKANA Facebook.com/BoxerRescueOfTexarkana KITTIES PAD RESCUE Facebook.com/TheKittiesPad LITTLE PAWS RESCUE Facebook.com/LittlePawsRescueTexarkana MUTTLEY CREW GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUE Facebook.com/MuttleyCrewRescue

BOB

ARKLATEX COCKER SPANIEL RESCUE

CAMPUS

BOXER RESCUE OF TEXARKANA

POODLE PATCH RESCUE INC PoodlePatchRescue.com

SHEP

TEXARKANA ANIMAL LEAGUE

PASSION FOR POOCHES (mostly small dogs) Facebook.com/passionforpooches TEXARKANA ANIMAL LEAGUE Facebook.com/TexarkanaAnimalLeague TEXARKANA HUMANE SOCIETY TexarkanaHumaneSociety.org Facebook.com/TexarkanaHumaneSocietyInc 903-824-8272 TEXARKANA REPTILE & AMPHIBIAN RESCUE Facebook.com/TkReptileRescue

POODLE PATCH RESCUE INC

BENTLEY

PASSION FORPOOCHES

THEO/TABITHA KITTIES PAD RESCUE

SUPER DOG MUTTLEY CREW

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.

We also have SPONSORED dogs and cats!

This means someone has already paid for their vetting!

Come see who’s waiting!

DIAMOND

JINX

NALA

MADISON

RHONDO

CHOCOLATE

ROCKY

MRS. SOLOMAN Is your pet microchipped?

If not, come have this done for only $20!

090 ALT Magazine | January 2017

The Animal Care & Adoption Center of Texarkana, Arkansas is located at 203 Harrison, Texarkana, AR, 71854. For more information, call 870.773.6388, or visit: www. animalcare adoption center.org or www.facebook. com/AnimalCare AdoptionTXK.

TOBY’S TALES (mostly wildlife) Facebook.com/Tobysname

MIGHTY

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

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

COLE

LEIGH

CHAMP

TINKERBELL

KINDER

PEACE

PEANUT BRITTLE

We’re Open! M-F 11A-5P & SAT 11A-2P

TILLY & JAZZY

Pet Rescues

My New Year’s Resolution?

Find a family.

SPAY

NEUTER

ADOPT

5820 Richmond Rd. | Texarkana, TX 75503 | (877) 525-4825 | Fax: (870) 330-0057 info@texarkanaanimalleague.org | TexarkanaAnimalLeague.org ALT-Mag.com | January 2017 091

ooding G decorative concrete

Custom Pergolas Wood and Trex Decking Counter Tops Pet Feeders Custom Furniture Pressure Washing Acid Stains and Scoring Indoor/Outdoor Overlays

903.277.0307 www.goodingdc.com

Thank you for voting me ALT Magazine’s

Best Realtor

Three Years in a Row!

Tracy Spradlin Broker