ALT March 2013 by ALT Magazine

March 2013 . Vol. 7, Issue 3

Tribute To Teachers

Chelsea Norton Pre-K, Springlake Park Elementary School Winner of the ALT Teacher Of The Year Facebook Contest!

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March 2013 /contents

k / On The Cover F E AT U R E S

58 Te x R e p N e w M e m b e r s h i p Party

Signs of the Times

Marching On

Te a c h e r C o n t e s t F i n a l i s t s

It’s All About Learning

60 Relay for Life Kick Off Party

36 A “Dynamic Duo” From Fairview EVERY MONTH 42

Dear Kendra

Editor ’s Letter

Financial Focus

F i s h Ta l e s

F u r r y Ta l e s

Real Estate

Second Chances

True Light

March 2013

Sweetheart Dinner

Junior League Luncheon

St. Michael’s Gala

Calendar of Events

In addition, we welcome Kendra Raines new event photographers, Kendal Dockery and Sarah Schwartz! Kendal and Sarah are both owners of their own photography studios and come to us with a wealth of photography experience. Please welcome them when you see them are your next event!

Winner of the 2013 Teacher of the Year Contest on ALT’s Facebook Page and recipient of a $250.00 grant for her classroom!

M a r c h 2 0 1 3 / Vo l . 7 , I s s u e 3

Publisher and Editor / Debbie Brower Associate Editors / Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson Photography / Image Forward Photography, Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson, Kendal Dockery, Sarah Schwartz Sales & Marketing Manager / Charlie McMurphy Feature Writers / Jane Bouterse, Anne Fruge Contributing Writers / Christine Amos, Mike Brower, Kendra Raines, Vincent Senatore, Dustin Stringer Advisor / 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.

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 ALT Magazine is published the 1st business day of every month. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission of ALT Magazine is strictly prohibited. ALT Magazine is distributed free of charge. Direct mail subscriptions are available for $42.00 per year. Contributions from our readers are welcome. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material.

2nd Place in the 2013 Teacher of the Year Contest on ALT’s Facebook Page! ALT Magazine

Please join us in welcoming our new columnist, Kendra Raines! We are excited to have her advice column this month -- and for months to come!

Grand Reopening of Ashley Furniture

Mike McInturff

TA M U T R e c e p t i o n H o n o r i n g D r. C u t r e r

Welcome New Staff!

54 Godspell 56

EVENTS

Chelsea Norton

62 Waggoner Creek Apartments Ribbon Cutting

C U LT U R E

48 Uncorked

Kendal Dockery

Sarah Schwartz

EDITOR’S letter

Education... Teachers who inspire know that teaching is like cultivating a garden, and those who would have nothing to do with thorns must never attempt to gather flowers. ~Author Unknown

I remember many of the teachers who blessed my life.

broken, as we were, by the events that had taken place. While

Throughout my elementary, middle and high school journey,

talking with them about teaching, I started thinking about how

they taught me the basics, with a part of that not only being

we could honor the teachers in our area. You see, although

“book” knowledge, but also the knowledge of how to be part of

they are there for our children every day for most of the year,

a team. I wish I could say I was never a “thorn” to my teachers,

they don’t get close to being told how wonderful they are by

but I would have to admit that I probably was. However, I loved

the people in our community. The “ALT Facebook Teacher of

to learn and have continued that love of learning throughout

the Year Contest” was the result of that meeting -- and for that,

my life.

I want to say thank you to these two wonderful ladies!

At times I have considered teaching. I tell all my family

The album of approximately 150 teachers is still up on

and friends this and they laugh. I would never make it as a

the ALT Facebook page. I hope that each of you will take thte

teacher at this point in my life. I am too stuck in my ways and

opportunity to peruse through all of these wonderful people,

want everything done as I feel like it should be done -- not

read the comments, and know that your children are being well

what others wish. Which is why I am really good at owning my

taken care of.

business! HA!

first runner up were from two generations -- one a brand new

However, without the teachers in my life, I would be

I was really excited when I realized that our winner and

incapable of owning any business. I absolutely believe that the teacher, the other a seasoned teacher. Chelsea Norton and more educated I became, the more my life came together. Life

Mike McInturff are both wonderful role models for the teachers

is funny. Just when you think you know what you know, God

in our community.

sends something your way to change your outlook!

Mike (Mr. Mac) this month while reading their stories. And I

Which is what happened one Saturday evening at a

I hope you enjoy “meeting” Lisa, Mary, Chelsea, and

dinner party that my husband and I attended at Northridge

hope you will take just a moment to thank a teacher in your life

Country Club. To our delight, we were seated with two

-- you know, the one that made a difference in just one thing.

wonderful women, Mary Harris and Lisa Waits. I had seen

Maybe that was for you, maybe that was for your children.

them before, but had not had a chance to talk with them.

Please let them know how important they are!

The dinner was shortly after the tragedy at the school

May God bless you!

in Connectticutt, when everyone was still very emotional about what had happened. Lisa and Mary both shared with us that they were elementary school teachers and had been heart 8

ALT Magazine

March 2013

Publisher/Editor

the LegaCy of suCCess Continues in 2012-2013

Pleasant Grove Elementary School

Pleasant Grove Intermediate School Pleasant Grove Middle School Grades 3rd - 5th

Grades 6th - 8th

Pleasant Grove High School

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5605 Cooks Lane Texarkana, Texas 75503 Phone: 903-831-4295 Fax: 903-831-5501

5406 McKnight Road Texarkana, Texas 75503 Phone: 903-832-8005 Fax: 903-832-5381

Chad Blain, Principal cblain@pgisd.net

Pam Bradford, Principal pbradford@pgisd.net

Linda Erie, Principal lerie@pgisd.net

William Harp, Principal wharp@pgisd.net

Grades PK - 2nd

Grades 9th - 12th

A l l C A m pus es Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Accreditation AdvancED/CASI Accreditation Texas Education Agency Accreditation Superior Achievement Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas State and Nationally Recognized Teachers State and National Award Winning Students

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by Jane Bouterse

“Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away! You You You any

have brains in your head. have feet in your shoes. can steer yourself direction you choose.”... …So says Dr. Seuss in his book Oh, the Places You’ll Go

Just who equips these young travelers to make such an amazing journey, i.e. “any direction you choose”? The answer is so simple it can be easily overlooked….

TEACHERS. Whether in public or private schools, home schools or tutors, TEACHERS generously and strenuously give of themselves to require their students—regardless of educational level—to use their brains and their feet. Equipped with the tools to choose wisely, students become the adults who determine the directions of governments and families, businesses large and small, charities and institutions, thus the potential to influence the worlds of which they are a part. This issue of ALT proudly salutes some excellent teachers who deserve the praises which come their way. They serve as representatives of all those TEACHERS who are unnamed but –Oh! So important! As we know: “If you can read [these stories], thank a TEACHER.”

We hope YOU will take the time to say “Thank you!

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SIGNS OF THE TIMES

The Teaching Goes On

about it…chickens would have been proud. hallway, through another set of double doors he beige brick of the familiar building As the dance ends, most of the class seat to unlock and open to the outside. I am appears the same but different themselves in their appointed places on the directed to the appropriate portable building, somehow. The welcome sign and centrally located carpet. I am entranced. observed as I ascend the portable’s stairs covered walkway occupy their assigned My attention is interrupted by a and knock on the classroom door. My arrival places—as always. The two sets of double has been announced, and I can hear the key young man who stands in front of me with entry doors are swiped clear and clean, an outstretched hand. “Welcome to Preturn in the door’s lock. Only as I am being and the busy movement of people—larger, Kindergarten Class” is his soft greeting as admitted into the classroom, where I am smaller and in between—is clearly visible we share a handshake. [I learn later that it is supposed to be, does my escort close the on the other side of the glass doors. When Caden’s turn to serve as Class Greeter.] He door to the main building and put her key to I push on the entry bar, however, the door performs his job very well. remains unmoving. Clearly, I While her usual am being denied entrance class of 22 four to five into Spring Lake Park year olds is slightly Elementary School—a Congratulations, Chelsea Norton, fewer today, Ms. Norton TISD public school. winner of ALT’s Teacher of the Year is still appreciative A young of the assistance woman approaches Facebook Contest! provided by Ms. Gloria the door and asks Hawkins, an invaluable my name and my classroom assistant who business at the school. travels around the campus I am expected. The long to lend her caring and knowledgeable hands work again. What long, sad days these keys cord attached to the key in her hand swings wherever they are needed. Ms. Hawkins and their users must know, but, for now, briskly as she places the key in the latch; directs me to a perfectly sized Pre-K chair their caution is somewhat reassuring. the door opens easily but is quickly locked which will serve briefly as my vantage Inside the classroom, I am greeted behind me. I am escorted into an office area point. I need the slight altitude advantage where I am required to enter my identification by the singing and dancing of the chicken just to explore the content of this strikingly dance, complete with flapping wings. information in the Visitor’s Sign In book. colorful, creatively informative and functional Chelsea Norton and her Pre-K class smile The effects of Newtown appear environment. and laugh as, holding hands, they move first everywhere. My momentary frustration This is a happy space. Valentines in one direction, then the other. No doubt turns into the same sadness expressed by almost as large as their makers occupy my escort who accompanies me into the March 2013

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chosen by ALT readers as their Special TEACHER OF THE YEAR. one corner of the portable building’s room. There are charts of Congratulations, Chelsea. colors and shapes—a rhombus, triangle, heart, star, oval, circle, Spring Lake Park Principal, Debbie Roberts, smiles with rectangle and square—and letters of the alphabet. Circular tables pride as she acknowledges: “Chelsea Norton is a first year teacher. occupy the perimeter of the room. Carefully placed throughout I have had the privilege to watch her grow as a teacher. I have the workspace are centers for math, science, construction, library, enjoyed watching our 4 year children develop in learning, social, ABCs, and writing—even a pretend and learn center. Students can physical and emotional skills over this short period of time. We are choose the center where they want to work during their afternoons. fortunate to have her at Spring Lake Park at the foundation level of Two disabled computers and a working iPad are available in the learning.” classroom. Chelsea is not unhappy about either the number of Chelsea’s tenure at Spring Lake Park began on June 8, technological tools or their temporary disabilities because she understands that “technology is great, but these kids still need hands 2012. What a day for her! On that June day she learned she had a job at Spring Lake Park, and shortly after that news, her baby on. Manipulatives to explore and guide their learning need to be girl Channing—the light of her life-- was born. Even with two lifeaddressed as well as the students’ tapping on a screen.” changing events on the same day, Chelsea only came close to Clearly visible to the teacher and students alike is the being overwhelmed. Classroom Helper She began Chart. Using this to handle one Chart, these new role at a four and five Choice + Change + Creativity + Constant = time. Channing, year olds are who is thriving, assigned their Chelsea Norton’s Classroom and “I love it.” obviously has jobs, for which responded to her they are hired 4:30 a.m. feedings when they make and Chelsea’s skills good choices as a mom; her Pre-K and from which they students are thriving, too. As Ms. Norton acknowledges, “I’m just a can be fired, if their choices are poor. “These jobs are all about big kid myself,” so seeing her dance in the chicken dance circle or responsibility,” Ms. Norton explains. “The jobs are rotated every sit cross legged in the carpet circle while she begins a book is no two weeks so that everyone has an opportunity. I use the words surprise. hired and fired, too. Social and emotional maturation are huge in “What is this?” Chelsea asks as she points to the front of Pre-K, and these jobs allow students to develop in many ways.” the book. Almost in unison, the students respond; then she turns the The jobs include: line leader; class greeter; light helper (turns lights book around, “And what is this?” off and on, especially as the class leaves and re-enters the room); “The back.” All the while students remain in their places, Teacher’s helper; weather person (this requires use of the class toy but there is always movement with student eyes moving—who microphone which does amplify sounds); flag holder; caboose (last really knows where? Chelsea is aware of everything. Her smile person to leave the room turns out the lights and shuts the door); never fades; she seems unhurried, and she responds to individual read aloud helper; nap time helper; snack helper, and pattern helper. comments as she draws the students back to “What is this?” This No doubt about it! These students are surrounded by time the spine of the book proves a bit more challenging. “What opportunities for helping and learning, but the most exciting part of does it do?” Chelsea asks. A discussion of the human spine this classroom revolves around the TEACHER. Chelsea Norton is an attractive 5’2” blonde with big green eyes and an infectious smile. illustrates. Meanwhile, she notes that one student has chosen not to As Jan Hall, one of Chelsea’s former teachers has noted, “I always join the group. “Will you join us?” she asks. There is no scolding called her Ms. Sunshine—I’m sure she brings that to her students.” in her voice. Ms. Gloria moves toward the holdout while Chelsea When her students (and their parents) describe her, words like returns to the lesson. After a brief discussion, the resistant student “lovely person; warm caring heart; helpful; spends equal time with chooses to join the group. “This is a non-discipline environment all the kids” abound. In short, “The best teacher ever!!!!” and “My [meaning no physical discipline]. We give students choices daughter looooves her!” No wonder, then, that Chelsea Norton was throughout the day every day instead of corporal punishment, sad faces or raising our voices,” Ms. Norton explains. “Giving choices is an example of ‘Love and Logic,’ and it is used throughout the campus.” She continues to explain that “Love and Logic” allows misbehaving students to choose one or two minutes of sitting at their tables with heads down to think what they might have done differently. “When the time is over, the student rejoins the group and continues on with no fits or tears.” “I’m so glad you joined us,” Ms. Norton addresses the once-resisting student. “Give me a hug. This is a much better choice.” Another question followed by a correct student answer. “Kiss your brain for knowing that,” she directs the student as Chelsea models her hand passing her lips and touching her forehead. By now, 903.792.0056 4059 Summerhill Sq. the group is getting a little restless, Texarkana, Texas so Chelsea directs them to “Throw

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ALT Magazine

March 2013

me your ears.” For a moment, she has their attention. Time to move on quickly, as four year olds have short attention spans. This classroom is an alive place. It is filled with lots of “Thank you” moments and always a smile. Negative faces here are rare. High fives are in abundance along with “Whoopees,” too. One student uses “Ma’am” as he responds to her, and Chelsea takes the time to observe, “You used kind words. Thank you.” A major reward for the students is their name on the Kindness Tree where hearts are the fruit grown. Again the tree’s presence serves a “growing” purpose. Once again, Chelsea explains: The Kindness Tree is an example of “Conscious Discipline” and replaces the old fashioned “behavior monitoring chart” which in some schools is not allowed anymore. The students are taught to become aware of their emotions and to control their actions in regards to a problem. A heart for the Kindness Tree can be earned by using kind words, listening ears, helping hands (sharing), and by using your BIG VOICE. This consists of the students saying, “I don’t like it when you hit me,” along with telling the teacher instead of hitting back and causing a bigger mess than before; or “I don’t like it when you take my pencil” or whatever the problem may be. “Another reason I like this age, “ a smiling Chelsea explains, “is that they want to please you.” Praise and patience in this classroom are abundant. “I’m so proud” is frequently used as are “rounds of applause” when students actually move their hands in a circle while they clap. The action never ceases. This award-winning teacher is constantly aware of the atmosphere of her classroom. “I make up stuff all day long, “ she confesses. “I have to think on my feet. My brain is always working.” Even though the lesson proceeds, Chelsea takes the time to tie an errant bow, grant permissions and answer questions. “I’ll tell you what. This isn’t working,” Chelsea concludes about a lesson, so she turns the lights off and the record on. This group is going on an unplanned but much needed bear hunt.

Choice + Change + Creativity + Constant = Chelsea Norton’s Classroom and “I love it.” Flexibility and stamina are essential tools for this TEACHER who will be with these students from her 7:40 a.m. pick-up time until their departure at 3 or 3:15 p.m. with only brief breaks for lunch and possible conferences. No wonder that a loud “WHEW” is an appropriate response before Chelsea reviews her day and begins making preparations for tomorrow. Chelsea Norton is clear. “I want my students to know this classroom is a safe and fun place to be.” She makes teaching and learning look so easy. The impression is accurate; the facts, different. Principal Debbie Roberts has noted that Chelsea “has attended training and utilized all that she has learned.” And her continued learning is substantial. To understand why, check out the Texas Education Agency’s website which outlines curriculum for Pre-K level: http://ritter.tea.state.tx.us/ed_init/pkguidelines/index. html. The outline includes teaching comparison and contrast, for example: To achieve that goal a graphic organizer hangs on the back of a shelf near the entrance to Chelsea Norton’s classroom. To an outsider it looks like two circles conjoined in the middle with words and pictures. Chelsea explains: Children at this age have a hard time saying how or why items are alike and different. The Venn Diagram is a visual aide to help students compare and contrast two different things. [Check out Venn Diagrams. Web site: www.ixl.com/math/pre-k] A Venn Diagram is “a way of picturing relationships between different groups of things. Using circles is almost inevitable. The Diagrams are useful tools for teaching mathematics, and logical relationships. In this Pre-K classroom, the Diagram was used to compare and contrast two stories, “The Three Little Pigs” and “The Three Billy Goats Gruff.” It is really important to expose Pre-K students to graphic organizers and other strategies. Although the students can’t read every word, they will eventually catch on to the purpose and the foundation will be set for tools they can use on in to high school. In short, sophisticated concepts made accessible via. visual and kinesthetic tools. Therefore, those hula hoops in Chelsea Norton’s classroom have a serious purpose for being there. This is one teacher who makes no apologies for pushing her students to achieve well beyond the state’s minimal guidelines, and she does everything within her power to facilitate the students’ success. Chelsea writes: Teaching children is truly my passion. I want people to know that teaching consists of much more than ABC’s and 123’s. No matter the age or content, teachers must teach the whole child—socially, emotionally, and academically. My goal as a teacher is to make learning fun, make my students feel safe when they enter into my classroom, and to instill a desire to learn within them. My first step in instilling a love for learning in my students is by modeling that behavior with my actions and words. “The one word that I would use to describe myself… BLESSED!” Students in Chelsea’s classroom—all 22 of them-- will probably be willing to apply that same word—BLESSED—to their experiences in her classroom. Although they may recognize it in different ways, their lives will be permanently changed as a result of coming into contact with this caring, hard working TEACHER because that’s not only a TEACHER’S job but also, passion. The classroom--more than any other place—has the greatest potential for making a positive difference in the lives of individuals. Those TEACHERS who succeed are dedicated to what they do and work usually without the positive praise of paychecks or society’s admiration. Chelsea Norton is one of those dedicated TEACHERS. Congratulations on her recognition as winner of the ALT’s TEACHER OF THE YEAR. She earns that praise every day. Keys and Locks? Sadly, signs of the times, but the Teaching goes on---because---That’s what TEACHERS do for their students, thus their world!

ALT Magazine

March 2013

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MARCHING ON

From The Army to Teaching, Mike McInturff Makes A Difference

he classroom is filled with treasures. The walls are lined with went back to school,” McInturff says. “When I decided to make posters of major historical figures, dinosaur replicas hang that life change for myself, I also created a life change for my wife, from the ceiling, and a wall is devoted to student’s original Kathleen, and our kids, Casey and Michelle. I was working two drawings. Each step into the room contains something new to jobs and going to school. However, their unconditional support discover. The room is also home to a unique cast of beloved got me through those tough years getting my education degree at characters: Big Momma, a tarantula; Dandelion, a parakeet; Spike, Texarkana College and East Texas State University. a bearded dragon; Oscar, a turtle; Oakatee, a snake; and Oreo, a Originally imagining himself as a junior high social studies bunny. Students from previous years stop by Room 3B at Redwater teacher, McInturff was assigned to complete his student teaching Elementary School to say “hi” to the man who changed their lives, a at Fifteenth Street Elementary in Texarkana ISD. Upon graduation man they affectionately call, “Mr. Mc.” with his degree in December, McInturff substitute taught for several “My second daughter, Grace, enjoyed being in Mr. months before getting a call from Fifteenth Street Elementary to McInturff’s class so much in the third grade,” Trysta Jeanette Horton offer him a permanent job there. His unique lessons, classroom says. “At a parent/teacher meeting he gave me some enlightened management and care for the views into my own child, kids was evident from the and I have never very first day on the job. forgotten how that “On the very Congratulations, Mike McInturff, brief meeting with my first day, I went to the daughter’s third grade cafeteria with them. first runner-up of ALT’s Teacher of the teacher inspired me When I saw how much to view her with new it meant to them, I just Year Facebook Contest! eyes. He certainly kept doing it. I enjoyed doesn’t do this to get being around them and rich, but to enrich the lives it’s a great way to find out of our future. He is one in a more about the kids,” McInturff million.” says. “You can find out about their likes and dislikes and problems When he was growing up in Fort Worth, Texas, Mr. they face. I wouldn’t trade my job now for anything. All I can say is I McInturff did not know that he was going to end up teaching 3rd should have started in education much earlier.” graders the different states of matter, addition and spelling. Instead, McInturff taught third grade for one year, and then first he followed a meandering road from the service in the Army to grade for nine years at Fifteenth Street Elementary. He also taught a job in Houston and finally to Texarkana for a sales position. at Dunbar Elementary before coming to Redwater Elementary where When McInturff’s daughter, Michelle, started playing softball for a Mr. McInturff has been a third grade teacher for 8 years. Wake Village city team and the team needed a coach, McInturff “From the very first day I make it my goal to create a volunteered, expecting that he would only coach for one year. Ten classroom that they want to be in,” McInturff says. “If they want to be years later, McInturff realized what he was really called to do: work here, that’s half the battle.” with kids. In his classroom, McInturff has several strategies for “I loved being around the kids so much, I left my job and building a close-knit classroom. He asks students to treat the March 2013

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them and their cages. The students can also take animals home classroom as their home and to treat each other with respect. with them on holidays (parental permission pending). “I tell my students when they walk in the door on the very “I can go on and on about Mr. Mc’s different strategies, his first day, that magically I have become their momma and their daddy stories, his ties, but the funniest aspect to me and my husband is and their grandpa and grandma,” McInturff says. “I tell them to look that he has opened our family to a new member,” Leslie Kendrick at every single person in this room and know them as your sisters George, the parent of a child in Mr. Mc’s class this year says. “We and brothers.” got the privilege of taking care of Spike, the Bearded Dragon, during McInturff also starts the year with Love You Forever by Thanksgiving. Needless to say we fell in LOVE. Even better, Santa Robert Munsch. The beloved book explains the strong bonds of brought our daughter a mini Spike for Christmas.” love between a mother and son. McInturff reads the book on the Other fun “Mr. Mc” traditions include units on Japan which first week and the last week of school to remind his students of an have students eating important fact. with chopsticks and “I tell my writing their name students I’m “To me, every teacher in this hallway, in in Japanese. going to love Because of Mr. them and protect this building, across this community is doing McInturff’s military them through this everything I’m doing. This award is for all background, the year,” McInturff class spends says. “In today’s teachers and the work they do every day.” a lot of time world, that is talking about so important. Veteran’s Day and Especially when we appreciation of our see and hear things like military. Mr. McInturff even wears his original uniform from 1970 to what happened in Connecticut. Parents and students need to know the class on important days. that we are all looking out for the students and care for them as a One of McInturff’s favorite ways to bring real life into the person.” classroom is to read stories that have to do with science. This spring To reinforce the feeling of a “home” in the classroom, the they will be reading A Tree is Growing, and the class will venture kids also take responsibility for many of the daily tasks. Most of the outside to identify types of trees near the school. The students inspiration behind McInturff’s teaching philosophy comes from his will also identify plants in the outdoor classroom that Mr. McInturff time teaching in Japan on a Fulbright Grant. McInturff observed helped organize. schools where the students had the responsibility of many janitorial “I’d always wanted an outdoor classroom just to get the duties and enjoyed furry companions in the classroom. kids into a different atmosphere, some place where they could Now, McInturff introduces the animals to the class and after see the nature we were reading and studying about,” McInturff a little time, they are expected to help feed them and take care of

ALT Magazine

March 2013

says. “When my grandson, Austin, was looking for a project for his Eagle Scout project, I told him I had just the job for him. My daughter Michelle, her husband Joe, granddaughter Loren and many others pitched in to help. Now the outdoor classroom is complete, and everyone at the school is welcome to use it.” Mr. McInturff’s definition of success doesn’t come from his numerous awards or recognition. In his classroom room, the tops of many plaques, including a Region 8 Teacher of the Year in 1997-1998, only show slightly through the display of student photos littering the shelf. He tells the kids, “If you have an extra school picture, I want one.” “Success to me is running into the students I taught and having them remember me and our class,” Mr. McInturff says. “If I made an impact on these kids and they wanted to be in school, well that was the point. Today I had a student come to see me and say he was running for Student Council at Texas Middle School and requested that I write him a recommendation letter. I said I would, and as he was looking around the room, he spied a picture he had drawn for me in third grade. It’s still

up on my wall. I keep them as long as I can.” Mr. McInturff was nominated for the Teacher Appreciation Contest on Facebook through ALT Magazine by his two daughters, Michelle, a nurse at Collom and Carney Clinic, and Casey, who lives at Fort Campbell, Kentucky with her husband, Kevin, and five year old son, Carter. Their caption with their dad’s entry photo said, “In his eighteen years of teaching he has made an impact on so many students’ lives. Even if it is just the smallest thing like making a student smile or making learning fun by teaching with different techniques, he just has that special touch. The extra effort and time he puts into his students amazes us, and we are proud to call him our Dad.” “I told the girls, once I found out about the contest that I wish they had come to me first,” McInturff says. “They said, well we knew you wouldn’t let us do it. But, to me, every teacher in this hallway, in this building and across this community is doing everything I’m doing. This award is for all teachers and the work they do every day.” Mr. Mc stands in front of “The Great Outdoor Classroom.”

March 2013

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3rd) Ellen Campbell

4th) Haley Cox

Ellen has taught Freshmen, Sophmore and Senior English at Pleasant Grove for 22 years.

Haley teaches first grade at Nash Elementary.

“Tis the good reader that makes a good book.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

7th) Ryan Murry

8th) Glenda Parr

Ryan teaches Senior English at Texas High School.

Glenda is a retired first grade teacher from J.K. Hileman Elementary, Queen City ISD. Glenda Upchurch Parr retired from teaching at J.K. Hileman Elementary School in Queen City in 1998 with thirty three years teaching experience. She spent twenty nine of those years teaching first grade, and twenty five of her years teaching were with Queen City ISD. Glenda credits her mother and father, both of whom retired from Queen City ISD with thirty three years teaching experience, for influencing her decision to become a teacher. Her husband, Paul, was the assistant superintendent at Liberty Eylau ISD before he died in 1978. Her sons, Doug and Dan, teach at Red Lick ISD and Allen ISD, respectively. When siblings, nieces, nephews and cousins are included, there are over three hundred years teaching experience in the Parr and Upchurch families. Glenda says, “Teaching was a wonderful experience for me. There’s nothing that puts a bigger smile on my face than seeing my teacher friends, my students and their parents.”

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March 2013

5th) Emily Tate

6th) Karen McDowell

Emily teaches second grade at Spring Lake Park Elementary.

Karen teaches Kindergarten at College Hill Elementary IB World School.

photo by Kacy Dunphy

9th) Haylee Houston

10th) Marilake (Farmer) Gibson

Haley works for the Middle School and High School in New Boston and also teaches 8th grade Health Class and boys PE.

Marilake taught Home Economics/Family and Consumer Science to grades eight - twelve, at Foreman High School, in Foreman, Arkansas for 36 years, from 1972 to 2008.

March 2013

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11th) Carol Dorse

12th) Summer Burkes

Carol teaches Special Education to grades six - eight at Paulette Smith Middle School in Fouke, Arkansas.

Summer teaches first grade at College Hill Elementary IB World School.

13th) Katherine Richardson 14th) Karen Hargis

15th) Billie Jo Hale

Katherine teaches third grade at Redwater Elementary School.

Billie Jo teaches first grade at Trinity Christian School.

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March 2013

Karen teaches eighth grade Technology Applications and is the Yearbook Adviser at Pleasant Grove Middle School.

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by Jane Bouterse

“IT’S ALL ABOUT LEARNING”

. . .at least that’s what she declares. Even with a smile on her face, no one can doubt from the tone of her voice and the intensity of delivery that she is committed to what she is saying. “She” is Emily Fourmy Cutrer, and she models what she means. This Texas Lady, born in “The Alamo City,” San Antonio and reared both there and in Houston, has earned B.A,. M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in American Studies from The University of Texas, Austin. She began her academic career as a faculty member In American Studies and Art History. “From 1990-2006, she was Associate Professor, then Professor of American Studies at Arizona State University West where she also served as Dean of the New College of Interdisciplinary Arts.” The experience in administration facilitated her move to California State University, San Marcos where Dr. Cutrer “served as Provost and Vice-President of Academic Affairs for more than six years. In January 2013, Dr. Cutrer returned to Texas after being named President of Texas A & M, Texarkana. Coming back to Texas is certainly understandable, but a UT graduate becoming President of a Texas A&M Campus? What courage and confidence guide her decisions! “That’s not all,” she laughs

comfortably. “My parents are UT graduates, and my grandfather graduated from the University of Texas, too… Brief Pause…I have thought about what they would say. I think they might say, ‘We have rivalries in lots of things—like sports—but we are about the same thing, i.e. educating students. Since you are coming back as a President, it’s OK.’” No one doubts her enthusiasm for both schools, especially her new employer, the Texas A&M System. “The Administration and Staff have been wonderful to me, “ Dr. Cutrer (although from the first handshake, her directions are “Emily”) acknowledges. But no one assumes the schedule of meetings, constant changes and fiscal challenges inherent in the job of President because she likes the staff. So, “What is the point of it all?” a question once asked a freshman class by A. Bartlett Giamatti (deceased), President of Yale, Renaissance Scholar and Commissioner of Baseball. “What is the point of it all?” Now a question directed to Dr. Emily Cutrer: “I firmly believe that the answer, to whoever asks—is that the point of a regional comprehensive institution, like Texas A&M, Texarkana, is to provide a broad array of students access to a high quality education. Access affects the prosperity of a nation; access to a quality education is the regional key to not only

the well being of a community’s economic development but also a well-educated populace, culturally and intellectually.” With that question and answer in mind, Emily quickly explains how much she admires what A&M is doing. Its campuses have now been extended to far flung regions of the state: Texarkana, Galveston, San Antonio, Central Texas, and West Texas, to name a few. “For me, it’s all about serving the underserved,” Cutrer explains. “Lifting the educational level is a quality of life issue. It’s all about having the inner forces to cope, and education provides [or at least enhances] those skills.” Dr. Cutrer quickly admits that her degrees in American studies, art history and writing [her book The Art of the Woman: The Life and Work of Elisabet Ney (famed Texas Sculptress) and 1988 winner of the Texas Institute of Letters Award for Best Book by a Texas Author] attest to her admiration and belief in the Liberal Arts. “A Liberal Arts education is at the core of what we do,” she affirms. She does not shrink from the argument that the demands on education are changing. In the technological world of the 21st century many of the most crucial jobs do not even require a college education and the increased expenses of a college education and stratification of income within American culture are limiting the educational opportunities fostered by the American March 2013

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Dream.

Carefully she places her cup of tea on the round table in front of her and confidently responds. “As job demands change,” she explains, “they require a return to the broad skills, the habits of thought and problem solving developed within the Liberal Arts.” “’So what is the point?’ To solve a problem requires an understanding of the context. If you don’t understand the context, you get everything wrong. As an American Studies scholar, I want to put the pieces of the puzzle together correctly.” Neither does Cutrer shy from the reality within today’s work force that many of the jobs do not require a college degree—at first. “Many discover later on, however, that they need a college degree to progress or they just acquire a desire to know more.” With a great deal of pride and enthusiasm, Emily acknowledges that Texas A&M, Texarkana, is here to fill those needs. In addition, she stresses how meeting those work force needs requires the efforts of the entire community. “Close collaboration with the community colleges is essential. We have wonderful partnerships with Texarkana College and its fine new president. I anticipate the same relationships with Northeast Texas Community College as well as the other community colleges in our area.” A&M Texarkana offers a number of degree programs that address workforce needs, and over time, it will add many more. “It needs to be emphasized that there is no substitute for the Liberal Arts core in the training in those areas.” Although her tenure at Texas A&M, Texarkana, is just beginning, Dr. Cutrer understands that she is supported in her desire to provide a high quality education for all the A&M students. “A&M has an exceptional faculty who have already put a lot of thought and effort into strengthening the Liberal Arts core. “As a former Liberal Arts Dean, it is incumbent on all of us

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March 2013

who believe to find ways to help students and their families.” The traditional classroom is only a beginning, but internships and projects in the community can and are being created to help students see how to make the transition from the academic environment to the real world. Finances? Dollars are always a challenge. Dr. Cutrer is well aware of the abundant demands and shortage of dollars. “We need to put money where our mission is,” she says, “and keep tuition as low as possible. “It is incumbent on me to raise as many private funds as I possibly can.” Her reality does not stop with raising money, however. “I do not see new technology as antithetical to the traditional classroom,” she quickly explains with evident enthusiasm for the direction her thoughts are taking her. Although online courses as such, are usually not less expensive than face-to-face courses, technology can provide for certain cost efficiencies, since there are a number of ways to combine the talents of faculty and technology. For example, Texas A&M, Texarkana, is working with Texas A&M, Central Texas (Killeen) to get their nursing program going. Nurses are much in demand, and nursing programs are expensive to support. Faculty and physical facilities can be shared via. technology for the success of nursing programs on both Texas A&M campuses. “We are no longer institutions of one size fits all, i.e. college is for 18 to 20 year old students all of whom live in a campus dorm.” Commuting students comprise a major portion of college student bodies. These students, more than likely, have jobs and families and lives in addition to taking college courses; there are 45+ year olds who must return to earn degrees to fit into the work force. There are also those who, for the first time in their lives, have the opportunity to achieve their delayed dream of a college education. The diversity of goals, experiences and motivation enrich a classroom beyond the boundaries of textbooks and technology. This is an exciting time to be in the higher education environment according to Dr. Emily Cutrer. “We have to be cognizant, and be sure our students understand, of the fact we live in a global environment.” Since many of the Texas A&M campuses are in far flung locations (and in Texas that can be pretty far) students’ grasping the extent of a “global environment” and its influence on their lives can be formidable. Students, therefore, must be taken well beyond just the classroom studies in international locations. --“The curriculum can be infused with global content, and technology can be a conduit for international education. Right now there is a University of Memphis sociology class working with students in South Africa. --International students can be encouraged to attend classes on American campuses. In a recent Texas A&M Singing Cadets concert, one of the most popular songs in their program was a Nigerian chant, sung in the appropriate dialect because one of the chorus members came from Nigeria and could speak Abua. Remember, too, that international students pay their way and do not take places away from American students. Another reason that higher education is an exciting place to be right now. The campus attitude is no longer sink or swim. “I don’t spend a lot of time worrying about grade inflation,” Dr. Cutrer admits. As she explains, college faculty are as concerned with what the students are learning as they are with grades. Speaking for herself, she said, “If a student comes to me and asks, ‘What do I have to do to get an A?’ I believe that student missed the point, which is to learn.” Our faculty are those “who find ways to help their students learn.” There are so many tools available. Today’s faculty is going to be concerned with getting over obstacles to discover how to help students. “We’re going to assume you can make it, and we’re going to help you find a way. I do think it is probably very exciting to really study the insights into educational psychology, neurology, etc. to

understand what we do as educators. Campuses like ours provide a broad base for reaching students.” Have you ever heard of a “flipped class?” One of Cutrer’s former Marine colleagues in California declared the “flipped class” was just what he needed to succeed. Here comes technology again because the instructor records the lecture so that students listen to it on their own for as many times as they wish. In class they are divided into groups or engaged in other means of discussion with the instructor. Repeated consultation of the lecture both prepares and reinforces the classroom experience. Time for the wisdom of Maria Montessori to emerge. When she began to use blocks in her classroom, objections were abundant. Montessori simply noted that the teacher who could be replaced by a machine…needed to be replaced. Technology is another tool for learning, and in the 21st century? A valuable tool. Another advantage of technology (and “this is done well in Texarkana”) is more and more attention is being paid to hands on learning. As a result, undergraduate as well as graduate students are becoming involved in research—as soon as possible. Involving students in scholarly efforts provides still more ways to engage with the faculty and “get the juices flowing early. A real scientist goes into a lab with questions and understands that the project at hand is creating, rather than affirming, knowledge.” According to the President, the National Science Foundation is highly supportive of students’ early involvement in research and often lends dollars to support their efforts. Dr. Cutrer proudly acknowledges that a group of Texarkana’s Texas A&M students last year won the A&M System student research competition. Their competitors came from all levels on all Texas A&M campuses. She beamed as she spoke. The standing joke applied to Dr. Cutrer, President, VicePresident, Dean, Provost (and others who make the same move) is “You are a faculty member who went over to the dark side.” A conversation with this cordial, bright woman proves, however, that she has gone nowhere—just changed hats. The knowledge she has worked to acquire continues to serve her well and grow.

“Teaching American Studies,” she notes, “requires an interdisciplinary approach—pulling different areas together.” As President of Texas A&M, Texarkana, she is charged with using those interdisciplinary skills to work with others, whether faculty or community, to pull together to solve problems. “I am excited about the opportunities” and her excitement is palpable, “about opportunities for learning and working with a continuum of learners; about the community and what we can do to help its citizens. It is also very nice to be back in Texas.” She laughs as she explains how she and her history scholar husband, Tom, went to church in Texarkana recently. As they were leaving the service, Tom wryly noted, “We’re not in California anymore.” There was not one Hawaiian shirt among the parishioners. They were both happy. “He never acquired a Hawaiian shirt,” Emily explains. These are people who never stand still. Tom is finishing a book about the Civil War for the University of North Carolina Press. His book in their sesquicentennial series will focus on the Civil War in the Trans-Mississippi West, i.e. Arkansas, Texas, and Louisiana (his home state). Their move is perfect for him. Emily is working on a long term project on state capitals constructed between Reconstruction and WWI. “Every time I am in a state capital, I have to pay a visit to the building. When I went to Austin recently, I was told about a booklet written about the state capital and asked about acquiring a copy. I had to laugh as I explained “I wrote the chapter about the art of the capital. “This has gone on for so long now, it may be a web site rather than a book.” How fortunate Texas A&M, Texarkana and the Texarkana community are to now include the Drs. Cutrer among their citizens. Dr. Emily Cutrer does indeed “teach and lead by example.” “What better advice” asks writer and retired NBC news Anchor Tom Brokaw, “for a young man or woman on the cusp of what passes for the real world? Think. Reason. Explore. Question.” That’s exactly what Dr. Emily Cutrer is all about. As she believes and lives: “It’s all about learning.”

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by Jane Bouterse

A “DYNAMIC DUO” FROM FAIRVIEW

“We’re a Pretty Nifty School, I Tell Ya’!” ~ Lisa Waits

“E

plans. The inclimate weather throughout this very child reaches for the stars and blocks into which the rug has been divided day has kept the students in the building. As provide the students specific locations to beyond” at Fairview Aerospace this school day nears its close, their energy “call their own” when Ms. Harris declares, “I and Environmental Studies Magnet need your hands and eyes.” Immediately, the levels are heightened, and a star launch out Elementary in the Texarkana, Arkansas, of this classroom can easily be fueled. To students rush front and center regardless of Independent School District. Although there help them settle a bit and focus, their patient are some 15 teachers who participate in that their location or project within the room. Her but growing-weary teacher requires them to call means she needs star and earth search, recite and gesture in unison: their full attention. The the “Dynamic Duo” of Rule #1: Follow directions quickly. rug serves as the central this focus is second Rule #2: Raise your hand for gathering place and as grade teacher, Mary permission to speak. the launching pad for the Harris and science Rule #3: Raise your hand for next project. teacher, Lisa Waits. permission to leave your seat. The 19 students Mary Harris Rule #4: Keep hands, feet, and in her classroom fall into attended TASD schools other objects to yourself. the seven to eight year and Texas A&M, Rule #5: Make smart choices to old range, and Mary Texarkana. Her eight keep the teacher happy. Harris is well aware of years of being at the The students’ attention regained, where they are physically, helm of a classroom Ms. Harris reviews with them the story she socially and emotionally. have been spent at has been reading. Vocabulary like racial “The attention span of Fairview. Lisa Waits, youngsters,” she explains, barrier, territory, accompany, and caption on the other hand, is discussed. The students seem to notice “ is one minute per year graduated from West most the race Jesse Owens once had of age. That means for Texas State University with a car, so she takes advantage of their seven and eight year (now A&M) and has interest in a race. “What is race when it’s not olds I have 10 minutes— 28 years of classroom talking about running?” she asks. Words are max—with any project.” experience in Texas, essential for her young explorers but so is Therefore, changes are Arkansas, Oklahoma, their awareness of their social environment. frequent, and groups are and Alabama, the result Her class is composed of African-American, essential. At this time, of moves necessitated Anglo and Hispanic students, and their some students have seat by being married to the responses to her questioning come without work to complete while same man for 34 years. Mary Harris hesitation. rotating groups work Both women bring Time now to return to her attentions with Ms. Harris on their to the classroom the at the table and to assist other students booklets for Black History Month. concern and commitment that are essentials in completing their work requirements for At the front of the room Harris in preparing their students for any journey-the day. Even as she explains to some works from her chair behind a circular table. whether earth or sky bound. students what she is doing and why, she From this location she has a full view of the Before seeking the stars, students answers other student questions and directs room while she works one on one stapling must learn to be good caretakers of the the activities of still others. Mary Harris is students’ booklets about Barack Obama, earth, for it is from their environment they totally aware of everything happening in her Bessie Coleman and other black figures and draw the sustenance and strength needed classroom. Wind chime questioning the students’ to launch. Students must become adults again as the group comprehension. Aware who can read as they seek understanding, reassembles. that students’ focus is make reasonable decisions and take actions This time their weakening, she rises essential to preservation of the world in project is multi-sensory which they live. Mary Harris, a second grade and gently strokes the grammar and the parts wind chime above her teacher recognized by Texarkana’s Junior of speech which they head. The clear tingle of League as Outstanding Teacher 2012, are identifying by both clearly optimizes her opportunities to develop its chiming is audible to colors and gestures, everyone and signals the reading and communication skills while Lisa an acknowledgement students to reassemble Waits deals with the science of taking care of whole brain learning. of the planet and seeking the stars. They are on the rug. Nouns are colored As the indeed, a “Dynamic Duo.” yellow; verbs, orange youngsters seat To walk into the classroom of and a distinction is themselves, legs folded Mary Harris must be like walking into a made by the group in their respective rug beehive. There is “beeziness” in every part between action (which block, Ms. Harris opens of the room. Charts and chalkboards fill the they supplement with a book and begins to four walls of the large space. Backpacks their gestures) and read the story of Jesse and jackets line one wall, but filled plastic linking verbs; adjectives Owens. Her students containers of all colors reside in the space are blue; conjunctions, do listen intently, though between the wall and ceiling above the brown and articles, red. questions or comments students’ baggage. Another bulletin board “I need you working,” she are constant. She promotes the Arkansas Razorbacks as directs when she returns responds patiently and well as students’ work while charts dividing to another group at her moves on. In spite of the work responsibilities and communicating circular table. The bees challenges to keeping information line the side and front walls. No Lisa Waits are busy! the children focused, space is unused. As time dictates Mary Harris never raises The room itself is divided by the hour of departure approaches. Mary her voice. In fact, she may even begin to student desks and a bright 10 X16 foot rug Harris oversees her students’ preparations whisper as she craves the attention of her in its center. The inviting rug is outlined by with backpacks and coats. This classroom is squirming charges. They listen. a broad blue band containing all sorts of consistently “buzzing.” Students are aware of In spite of her knowledge of objects familiar to the students—rainbows, what is required of them. They are fortunate learning styles and specific goals for her umbrellas, watermelons, frogs, musical students, she is compelled to depart from her notes, and letters of the alphabet. The March 2013

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to have a teacher who compels them to think and is unafraid to admit, “I don’t know.” Their teacher’s honesty also extends to comments like “Y’all are making for a very grumpy teacher tomorrow because my kids are not minding me. This has been a rough day. I need cookies…with nuts.” “With nuts?” they ask. “With nuts,” she affirms as they line up to head toward the buses. As in all of life, some days in the classroom are better than others; but, like the professional she is, her demeanor remains calm; her focus, strong; her caring smiles, obvious. With her classroom empty, Mary Harris heads into another wing of the school just to engage in a reality check with her special colleague and friend, Lisa Waits, the science teacher. Lisa and Mary have shared the trials and successes of their students and often plan lessons which complement each other. Both are eager to have their students learn. Mary invites me to join her; we meet Lisa halfway down the hall toward her classroom. She is an imposing figure with a comfortable, automatic smile and a strong voice, an obvious benefit from her lifetime training as a soprano. Moving toward Lisa’s classroom, we all stop periodically to check on several points of interest. For example, a stop at a hallway window reveals the school’s courtyard with its still dormant butterfly garden and currently-

ALT Magazine

March 2013

empty-of-goldfish pond. Waits eagerly gives the students credit for their creative and maintenance efforts in maintaining the garden, the pond and the courtyard. Moving on down the hallway, the display for the school’s recycling project looms ahead. “We recycle everything,” Waits explains proudly. “This project can involve everyone in the school and addresses major environmental issues.” Like Harris, Lisa Waits implements her personal concern for the planet both in and out of her classroom. She understands the Kashmiri Proverb: “We have not inherited the world from our forefathers—we have borrowed it from our children.” Within her classes, Waits enables her students to become aware of the earth’s treasures while fostering their understanding of their caretaking responsibilities. Farther down the hall, another display—this time for crayolas. Lisa has read about a Colorado project in which bits and pieces of crayons are being collected—she interrupts to emphasize: “only old and broken pieces.” The condition of the crayons, just not new, does not matter. “By March 8, the school needs to have collected 100 lbs. which will be sent to Colorado for recycling. Older people with special needs will sort and use the assortment for their projects. Anyone who wishes to contribute to this campaign may do so. Just bring your bits and pieces of crayolas by Fairview. March 8 is the deadline, and 100 lbs. is still our goal.”

Arriving at her “fun filled universe”-her science lab, Lisa proudly displays an assortment of tools and student efforts. After all, she coordinates her plans with 15 different teachers and 5 different grade levels. The hallway outside her door is covered with student-generated maps. Inside walls are lined with flight simulators (sims) for both helicopters and conventional aircraft. Books are everywhere. “I never met a book I didn’t like,” Lisa acknowledges, but both teachers rely not only on books but also their own curriculum materials to meet the state’s standards for their students. Ms. Waits explains how currently the kindergartners are learning the names of male and female animals: “A horse is a foal, a colt, or a filly.” Parents who visit her website are encouraged to “Ask your child about the sentence we made up to help us remember. We also made up one about chickens.” Both Lisa and Mary laugh, as they frequently allow students to help them make up the songs and/or movements which serve as reminders of information the students need to know. Older students have moved into physical science and are involved in the study of properties and sorting. Both Ms. Harris and Ms. Waits are covering these characteristics in their respective classes. Ms. Harris’ students identify properties as adjectives while Ms. Waits uses the adjectives to identify the properties: how do items look, smell, taste or feel? Multi-Sensory learning, acknowledged by recent scientific studies as an “extraordinary feat of human nature”*, is utilized by both of these teachers. Proudly praising her friend, Mary moves Lisa into explaining how she also offers her older students opportunities to learn in off-campus environments. A favorite location is Rick Evans Grandview Prairie Conservation Center, 5000 acres of blackland prairie filled with spring blossoms or an Owl Hunt, a late night search for a barred owl and its call. Waits frequently takes advantage of special programs offered students by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Teachers and parents also are invited to participate in the science trips so that everyone can stay on the same page and at the same time enjoy an experience in Nature-- maybe the leaves changing in the Logoly Environmental Park outside Magnolia. Many of the Logoly programs change to address the Common Core themes required in Arkansas classrooms. Little did they realize that the funny faces Lisa Waits made years ago as she passed the classroom of a nowsmiling Mary Harris would lead to the stimulating and enduring professional and personal relationship they share. Add to that relationship the contributions of David Harris, Mary’s science-teacher husband, and there is constant discovery for all of their students. Mary Harris and Lisa Waits have far more in common than different, although the courses they teach have different

names. Mary teaches second grade which includes English and reading; Lisa, science to 5 different grade levels. There the differences end. Their subjects are similar; the students they teach bring many of the same experiences and limitations into their classrooms. Both of these teachers understand that teaching never “takes a break” and that knowing their students well is crucial to reaching them successfully. “Getting students to focus on topic is one of our greatest challenges,” Mary Harris admits. “We have to move in a hurry—the result of too much TV and not enough play.” Lisa Waits adds, “They don’t know how to play. They have to learn in the dirt. That can’t be taught.” These two teachers recognize the importance of patience, creativity and discipline. They also believe in FUN, and they do their best to make that happen in their classrooms. All of this takes a great deal of hard work in which they engage without hesitation. Like all teachers, their hours are not confined to school days, their classrooms or 9 to 5 work schedules. Both Mary Harris and Lisa Waits are unafraid. They do not shy from “I don’t know, but I’ll find out.” Both understand the importance of parents being involved in their children’s learning and welcome parental participation. They are not easily frustrated but admit that some days can be discouraging BUT “When the students get

it?” they admit in unison, “YES! They get it! That makes everything worthwhile!” For this “Dynamic Duo”—Mary Harris and Lisa Waits, two exceptional teachers-- “Their students GETTING IT is why they stay in constantly changing and challenging classrooms. They are working toward a world—on earth and in space— where their student/adult travelers feel confident and capable of experiencing a meaningful journey. No wonder Lisa’s comment and Mary’s affirmation… “We’re a pretty nifty school, I tell ya’,” seems appropriate for Fairview Aerospace and Environmental Studies Magnet School, Texarkana, Arkansas, Independent School District. *Bremner, Andrew J., David J. Lewkowicz, and Charles Spence, Editors. MULTISENSORY DEVELOPMENT. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press, 2012.

Editor’s Note: I absolutely fell in love with these two teachers at a dinner party this past month. They were the inspiration for the teacher contest that was such a wonderful way to give our local teachers credit for the great job they do for us every day. Thank you to all of the teachers! And thank you to Mary and Lisa for inspiring me to make sure you received the credit you were due!

March 2013

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Dear Kendra Dear Kendra,

Dear Kendra,

Last February I lost my job, along with a few other people, for sending animated texts on our company phones. Even though they weren’t (all) bad, it was against company rules and I was let go. I have applied for countless jobs that I am qualified for but during the interview when it comes time to say why I left my last job (inappropriate texting)...whoa...interview over. I know what I did was wrong and I have learned my lesson. My question is how do you get your respect back and what should I say in the interview? Lying about what I was fired for is not an option, that is not who I am. Disgusted and Unemployed Dear Disgusted and Unemployed Airhug. I know that is an embarrassing reason to lose your job. Who wants to re-live it during every job interview, when you are just ready to move on with your life? From a hiring manager’s prospective, less is more. I believe the best way to handle it is by being honest but skip all the gory details. Keep it short and simple. You, and a few others, were let go for breaking a company policy regarding sending animated texts on company phones. Share that you are embarrassed about the situation, but you now understand companies have policies in place for a reason. Handle the question with a humble, not disgruntled, heart. As a hiring manager, I would want to hear that you learned your lesson and will respect my company’s policies. There is no need for you to go into intimate details of the situation. Keep the focus on your qualifications and never, ever, ever talk bad about your previous employer or manager. For me, that immediately ends the interview. I don’t care how qualified the person is, that spells “DRAMA” and I will always pass. How do you get your self-respect back? Three magic words (and my favorite mantra)… Let. It. Go. You made a mistake, you learned from it. You don’t have to punish yourself for it over and over. Stop re-living it. This means stop talking about it and stop thinking about it. Letting it go means letting it go. If it comes to mind, remind yourself that you have moved on. If someone brings it up, end the conversation by saying that you have moved on. You don’t have to wait to get another job to move on; you can do that right now at this moment. When you have truly let it go, it will come across in your next interview as something that happened but does not continue to affect your life. Blessings-Kendra

ALT Magazine

March 2013

My husband and I are having problems. There is a girl that is trying to steal him away from me. He assures me that it never happened and never will. I trust him and I love my husband with all my heart and soul. I need to know how to not think about it. It hurts. What do I do? Hurting soul Dear Hurting, Airhug and bless your sweet heart. This hurt that you are feeling has a name-jealousy. Jealousy is an ugly and debilitating emotion and I despise it. Having issues with it in the past, I know how it can wrap its ugly claws around every thought and consume you. If you allow it, it can and will destroy your relationship. First things first, you have to come to terms with why you are jealous. Is it because you don’t truly trust your husband or believe that he loves you? Or is it your own insecurity of not feeling good enough and fear that you might lose him? Since you stated that you trust him, I can only assume it is the latter. That is not something to be ashamed of; so many women deal with the exact same thing, including me. How did I deal with it? I changed my thought process. Since you were not reassured by your husband’s statement that “nothing has happened or will ever happen,” you are going to have to assure yourself. Start by replacing your insecure and fearful thoughts with those of security. Repeat positive statements such as: “My husband loves me and chose to marry me. I am worthy of happiness. I am deserving of love.” Do this every single time a jealous thought creeps in. Find phrases that make you feel assured and change your thoughts to only those that will build you up. This is not an overnight fix. It is something you need to do on a consistent basis until those negative and jealous thoughts just aren’t there anymore. That’s not to say you won’t ever feel jealous again. You’ll just be able to recognize it and put a stop to it before it has a chance to get its claws in you again. James Allen, the author of As a Man Thinketh , once said “All that you accomplish or fail to accomplish with your life is the direct result of your thoughts.” Make sure that constant inner dialogue going on in your head is full of positive things and you will begin to see a huge difference in your life.

Lastly, please stop giving this woman so much power over your thoughts. Every time you obsess over whether or not she can “steal your husband” you are giving her power over you. Next time she creeps in, acknowledge the thought and then let it go. She doesn’t deserve a place in your brain so stop giving her one. I know how hard it can be to overcome jealousy. It takes time and patience with yourself to outgrow it so try not to be too hard on yourself if it takes longer than you expected. Consistency is the key. Just think how great it will feel to not have to deal with those time consuming thoughts any longer. Personal growth is not easy but it is very rewarding. Blessings to you-Kendra

s! c i r b a F h t i W Add Color

Dear Kendra is not a licensed therapist. The guidance offered on ‘Dear Kendra’ is intended for informational purposes only. Use of this column to provide guidance is not intended to replace or substitute any professional, financial, medical, legal, or other professional advice. If you have specific concerns or a situation in which you require professional, psychological or medical help, you should consult with an appropriately trained and qualified specialist. Kendra is a happily married wife with three wonderful children, two perfect grandchildren and two spoiled doggies. She bases her guidance on a life packed full of experiences and a passion to help others. Besides being Dear Kendra she is also an entrepreneur and On Air Personality on KKYR 102.5. You can “Like” her on Facebook by visiting www.dearkendra.com. Submit your anonymous questions by email: dearkendra@ymail.com or by mail: ALT Magazine 200 Heather Dr Texarkana, TX 75501

Janet Green

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March 2013

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by Christine Amos

Don’t be a victim...

have this crazy friend that is always on Craigslist. She will text, call, or private message my inbox on Facebook at any given time to tell me about the new “bad guy” she’s found. She KNOWS it gets me hot under the collar. She likes to expose these kinds of people. I do too! It’s always animal related. Sometimes she just finds some wackadoo that has posted something off the wall about his weird breed and wants me to tell her about it. “What kind of DOG is that! Why would people do that to an animal or why would someone want to breed that dog when it’s clearly disabled.” I’ve thought about this and have decided to give a few tips on how to spot a back yard breeder (BYB) or puppy mill. The kind of tips or things that the average person wouldn’t think to ask or take note of. *You might be a BYB if you meet your potential buyer in a Wal-mart parking lot because you don’t want the buyers to see the living conditions their new baby just came from. *You might be a BYB if you are, for example, raising Biewers and cannot pronounce the name of your breed. The Biewer a la’ Pom Pon, pronounced “Bee-vir” not “byuwer.”

*You might be a BYB or puppy mill if you raise multiple litters a year with zero regard to health issues. One must never breed unhealthy dogs or dogs with from birth deformaties such as blindness. Never be a breeder of a blind dog. Truly unethical. *Never buy a dog from Craigslist. You NEVER know what crazy put an ad out there and isn’t really selling a dog but only trying to get information to stalk you. *Always ask for references. *You might be a BYB or a puppy mill if you have a booth at the flea market. *Never trust a breeder that says teacup. This is NOT a breed it is a marketing term to describe how small the animal is at the time. Imperial is more of the same. It is NOT a breed but an original bloodline of Shih tzu merely meaning that the dog is smaller than the average or what is deemed conformation.

ALT Magazine

March 2013

*Just because a BYB or puppy mill has “papers” on the dog doesn’t mean it is a purebred. There are many disreputable registries willing to register dogs because they couldn’t register with one that IS on the level. What happens more often than not is people want to market their animal so a new registry is formed. There are at least 20 registries available now. Out of those 20, two might be reputable. *If you breed more than 1 -- yes, 1 -- breed of dog, most reputable breeders will look down upon you and yes, you are a puppy mill. *If you breed for quantity not quality, then you, too, are a puppy mill. *If you are greedy and are only looking to earn an income from the backs of your animals, then you are a puppy mill. ***If you open a Facebook page so you can sell your puppies, all 7 or 8 different breeds that range from toy up to a giant breed, you are a puppy mill and a BYB! Buyer beware of these kinds of breeders. Please educate yourselves so these people will have no other choice but to find gainful employment elsewhere! Don’t let yourself be another statistic. I have many customers that have come to me for grooming and tell me the story of their little baby. “Oh, I bought my dog from such and such breeder. Yes I know his teeth are falling out and he is only 2. He has a luxating patellum, and has disc problems. Oh, yes, he is blind also. I didn’t know he would go blind. I didn’t think to ask about the mom or the dad that he came from. His mom was blind. So now I have this dog I love terribly but have all these veterinary bills. If only I had done my homework and checked out this breeder. If only I had...” Oh well, you didn’t. Next time I hope you will remember. If you don’t want to do the homework to find a healthy dog then go to the shelter and adopt a baby. At least you won’t be keeping a breeder in business and you will be saving a life. No, you may not know the background on the shelter dog but at least you won’t be as surprised or shocked as you would from a BYB that you thought was honest with you. Christine Amos has over 30 years experience grooming pets and an owner of Georgia’s Pet Salon. She is a Certified Groomer, Master Groomer, AKC Canine Good Citizenship Evaluator, and Obedience Trainer. She is also Mom to Georgia (pictured), MoMo, and Annabelle!

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Fishing Shallow in the Winter

elieve it or not, you can catch fish in two to three feet of water in the winter, but you most likely don’t want to wade around in shorts to do it. This time of year bass are starting to think about spawning and will move between shallow and deep several times a day. They will move up shallow to get a little of the warmth from the sun and while they are there grab a quick bite to eat, kinda like grabbing a hotdog and popcorn at the movies.

Shad and bream will move up in the water column for the same reasons and they are what Billy Bass eats this time of year. The bass will be on points and shallow indentions close to deeper water. They may be on the points, in the indentions or suspended at the same level as the top of the drop but a few feet out from the drop over deeper water. Typically the bass will be no more than three to four feet deep in those areas with some wind on them and slightly deeper if there is no wind. Now, what do you throw? Well, that’s a little easier to figure out. Good baits to fish are rattle traps and jigs if there is no wind and spinnerbaits or crankbaits if there is wind. Throw across the points, not up to them, and all the way back in the draws. Try both a slow and fast retrieve. This pattern is good for one or two fish, but mostly one per spot (where they are present.) If they ain’t there they ain’t there. But if they are, there are a lot! So try to cash in on this overlooked pattern.

Dr. Jason M. Michel, DDS . Certified Endodontist 903.793.7411 or toll-free: 888.287.7555 www.texarkanaendo.com

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March 2013

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by Vincent Senatore

No Port In This Storm...

ne of the most asked questions that I get on a daily basis is “what type of libation would be great after dinner.” Many of us like cordials or cognacs and I must admit the rich flavors of a Grand Marnier or Godiva Chocolate Liqueur can be very satisfying after a gourmet meal. But, I am partial to the wines of the Douro Valley in the northern part of Portugal. Commonly known as Port, there are a wide variety of styles and flavors associated with the Port trade. However, it’s the sweet, rich flavors and smells that most Americans associate with Port wines. Due to the high alcohol content and residual sugar, Port was a natural addition to the merchant and explorers ships, where space and the sailing environment were detrimental to wine storage. Port became much more popular in England after the Methuen Treaty of 1703, when merchants were permitted to import it at a low duty, while war with France deprived English wine drinkers of French wine. The long trip to England often resulted in spoiled wine. The fortification (addition of a spirit or brandy) of the wine was introduced to improve the shipping and shelf-life of the wine for its journey. Today this process has been refined and expanded into many different styles of Port. First, one must understand that the microclimate of the Douro produces a wine that is very high in sugar. A portion of the produced wine will be converted into a distilled grape spirit (aguardente similar to brandy) to fortify the wine and halt fermentation before all the sugar is converted to alcohol and results in a wine that is usually 18 to 20% alcohol. While Port is high in alcohol, this wine is extremely velvety and soft to the palate. Further, Ports are high in antioxidants and resveratrol which can actually be healthy for you.

wine that had been destined for bottling as vintage port, but because of lack of demand was left in the barrel for longer than had been planned. Over time it has become two distinct styles of wine, both of them bottled between four and six years after the vintage, but one style is fined and filtered before bottling, while the other is not. Some of the 10 and 20 year LBVs can be a good as the vintage ports. LBVs are usually lighter than vintage ports while maintaining the same rich, full flavors. I love LBV style port when served with dark chocolate, strawberries and a variety walnuts and pecans. Vintage port is made entirely from the grapes of a declared vintage year and accounts for about two percent of overall port production. Not every year is declared a vintage in the Douro. The decision on whether to declare a vintage is made in the spring of the

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The best part of Port wine is the many different styles and flavors associated with Portuguese Ports. Here are a few examples of different ports that one might find in our local market. Ruby port is the cheapest and most extensively produced type of port. After fermentation, it is stored in tanks made of concrete or stainless steel to prevent oxidative aging and preserve its rich claret color. The wine is usually blended to match the style of the brand to which it is to be sold. The wine is fined and cold filtered before bottling and does not generally improve with age. Drink this wine with soft cheeses and Milk chocolate. Tawny Ports are made exclusively from red grapes that are aged in wooden barrels, exposing them to oxidation and evaporation. As a result, they gradually mellow to a golden-brown color. Tawny ports are sweet with a slight tartness that makes them wonderful with walnuts, dark chocolate, bleu-veined cheese and fresh pears and apples. Late bottled vintage (often referred to simply as LBV) was originally 48

ALT Magazine

March 2013

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second year following the harvest by the government. Since they are aged in barrels for only a short time, they retain their dark ruby color and fresh fruit flavors. Particularly fine vintage ports can continue to gain complexity and drink wonderfully for many decades after they were bottled. I always recommend that one should consume great vintage ports by themselves. However a piece of English Stilton, fresh pears and macadamia nuts make a delicious matching. Finally, there are the Estate style Ports or “Reserves” that take on the personality of the Quintas, or “Port Houses.” These ports are mostly a premium ruby port approved by the IVDP’s (governing Body) tasting panel, the Câmara de Provadores. In 2002, the IVDP prohibited the use of the term “Vintage Character,” as the wine had neither a single vintage nor the typical character of vintage port. This is the style that I’m most fond of. The texture, color and flavors are right in the middle of the expensive Vintage ports and the LBV. Reserve ports are excellent with all types of Bleu-vein cheeses, all styles of fine chocolate and a variety of berries, apples or pears. It’s always fun to be able to enjoy a rich, sweet wine that is actually good for you. Ports are a very satisfying finish to any gourmet meal and they are very easy to store and serve. In fact, most ports will keep well for about 6 months without refrigeration or special care. Try it, you’ll like it.

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Resolutions and Taxes Dear Valued Investor: Instead of champagne toasts and party hats, Washington, DC chimed in the New Year with the same old dance of waiting until the last minute before demonstrating its near inability to work together. Regardless, the so-called fiscal cliff, a series of economically devastating tax increases and spending cuts that were due to come on line at the start of 2013, was temporarily averted given a last-second deal between the Republican-led House of Representatives and the Democratic-led Senate. The compromise, known as the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012, is not the grand solution to address our nation’s surging debt issues that many had hoped for. Rather, it is more of a temporary band-aid that resolved the revenue (tax) elements of the fiscal cliff, but delayed addressing the tougher decisions surrounding spending cuts and raising the debt ceiling until February 2013. Specifically, the Act contains the following major provisions: Individual income taxes: The Bush tax cuts are permanently extended for individuals with taxable income less than $400,000 ($450,000 for married couples), and the alternative minimum tax patch is made permanent and indexed for inflation. Capital gains and dividends: There is no difference on tax rates for capital gains and dividends, although top rates will rise to 20% for individuals with taxable

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

income greater than $400,000 ($450,000 for married couples). Personal exemption reductions: Reinstated were limitations on itemized deductions and personal exemptions for taxpayers with taxable incomes greater than $250,000 ($300,000 for married couples).

This growth “anchor” of 1.5% is sizable considering the anemic economic growth in the United States of approximately 2%—but, is considerably less than the 3.5% drag that an unaddressed fiscal cliff would have generated.

All eyes now shift from the cliff to the ceiling. Despite averting the steep cliff, the United States’ limit on how much debt can be Estate tax: The estate tax rate will move up issued, known as the debt ceiling—along to 40%, but the exemption will remain at $5 million, annually indexed for inflation (which is with the sequestered spending cuts and the funding for the government—all need to be $5.12 million beginning January 1, 2013). addressed by late February, which means the next fiscal battle is less than two months Unemployment benefits: Extended away. The good news is that there may unemployment benefits will be funded for finally be clarity around future tax policy, another year. which could trigger some consumer and business spending that has been on hold The bottom line is that the federal income during this time of uncertainty. Additionally, tax rate will remain the same for everyone except those individuals with taxable income markets do not handle uncertainty well greater than $400,000 ($450,000 for married and hopefully having some of these items addressed will allow them to move in an couples), which is a change that will affect less than 1% of Americans. However, despite upward direction in the near term. However, there remains much work to be done in the the headline that tax rates remain the same coming months to overcome the contentious for most, the actual dollar amount of taxes policy decisions that Washington delayed paid will be moving higher for virtually every addressing, instead of fixing, this past week. wage earner due to the elimination of the At a time when Americans across this great payroll tax cuts of 2011 and 2012. Payroll country are committing to change through the taxes help to fund Social Security by taxing annual rite of New Year’s resolutions, I only 12.4% on wages up to $113,700 (in 2013), hope that our leaders in Washington commit which was paid equally by employers and to turn their characteristic procrastination workers at 6.2% each prior to 2011. In into a quick resolution to the remaining cliff2011 and again in 2012, the President and Congress reduced the share paid by workers related hurdles that await us in the coming months. from 6.2% to 4.2%, which essentially put extra money via a tax cut in wage earners’ The opinions voiced in this material are for general wallets. However, starting in 2013, the split information only and are not intended to provide will once again revert to 50/50 and result in specific advice or recommendations for any individual. higher taxes for essentially everyone. To put To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate this in dollar terms, the Tax Policy Center for you, consult me prior to investing. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future estimates that households making between results. All indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested $100,000 and $200,000 will see an average into directly. tax increase of $1,784 in 2013. For higher income earners, the tax burden is much This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax, legal or investment planning steeper given the combination of higher advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax federal income tax rates, the elimination of issues with a qualified tax advisor. payroll tax cuts, the limitation of personal deductions, and the higher tax rate on More information on the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 can be found at: investment income. In aggregate, Congressional Budget Office analysis estimates that the tax increases and small spending adjustments outlined in the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 will essentially result in $230 billion less available for spending in 2013. This would result in a drag on the economy in 2013 totaling about 1.5% of gross domestic product (GDP).

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There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man. John 1:9 “I have an unusual testimony,” Todd Hervey, the Pastor at Circle J Cowboy Church says. “I spent most of my early years running from God.” Even though Todd was raised in the church when growing up in Hervey, Arkansas on his family’s 4400 acre ranch and was baptized at an early age, he never truly surrendered his life to the Lord. Todd worked as a professional horse trainer and ranch manager from his early teenage years through college at Stephen F. Austin University where he earned a degree in agriculture business with a minor in business. However, it was while living in Nacogdoches that things began to change for Todd. First, he met his wife, Robyn. “I stole her and brought her home,” Hervey says with a smile. Now they have been married 23 years. Robyn is a reading specialist at Redwater Elementary and they are the proud parents of Jim, Wes, Ty and Beth. “My work has always called me away from home,” Todd says. “My family has been my number one support through all the changes in our lives. I am so thankful to them.” Also, while living in Nacogdoches for school, Todd started attending church at Feronia Hill Baptist Church. “Alcohol had consumed my life to this point,” Todd says. “It just about destroyed my life and everyone around me for many years. But, when I got back in church, I felt God calling me to do ministry. I got out of the bar scene and quit drinking.” Todd had realized at a young age that he could sing, so he started to use his voice to worship in church. Todd also received invitations to lead worship at other churches, youth camps, concerts and

ALT Magazine

March 2013

revivals. After this, Todd and Robin moved back to Texarkana where Todd got a job at Humco Pharmaceuticals, and they began attending Trinity Baptist Church. At age 29, Todd was listening to the service and felt the Lord calling him again. “I had been living a life of works. Everything was right on the outside, but everything was wrong on the inside. I was very active in church, but on my way to Hell,” Todd says. “The Lord really changed my

ministry when I decided to give him control of my life. I went from a singer at regional events to a national recording artist in Christian country music.” Todd worked with Rit Records and had four #1 hits. He received recognition from the Country Gospel Music Association as Entertainer of the Year and traveled across the nation. “I knew from early on that I wasn’t an artist so that I could become a famous singer,” Todd says. “God had a different plan. The music opened the door to secular venues so that I could bring God’s word. I didn’t just sing at churches, I did concerts at PRCA rodeos and fairgrounds. People kept saying, ‘Let’s get this crazy cowboy in here. They will listen to him.’”

Todd’s Living Water Tour was his part-time work as he still worked full time at Humco. But, his travels really showed him the details of church ministry across the country, and he started to feel a calling to help the church reach out to the “unchurched” population. “When we looked at the numbers of decisions made from Living Water Tour, we found that 80% of the decisions came from outside the church and only 20% from within,” Todd says. “We saw a need in the unchurched western heritage culture. I would give the names of those who made decisions for the Lord to the local pastors, but this culture just didn’t relate to the traditional church.” As a “cowboy evangelist,” Todd was soon asked to be on the advisory board that the Baptist General Convention of Texas set up to start “cowboy” churches across the state. “We identified several barriers that the unchurched western heritage population had with traditional churches,” Todd says. “Things like fancy buildings, a traditional dress code, feeling pressure to give money in the offering, worship music they didn’t know and long-winded preaching were keeping a large group of people from coming to church.” The cowboy churches were constructed with these barriers in mind. The buildings are rustic, there is no dress code, offering boxes are located at the back of the church, the worship music is centered around country music and old hymns, and pastors use more parables and examples to show life application to the Word. “People come to this church with face paint still on from the duck or deer hunting, flip flops and shorts, camo, or even mud on their jeans from work at the ranch,”

Todd says. “In fact, after church people are often gathered in the parking lot comparing the trophies from this morning’s hunt. But, 85% of the population of our church didn’t transfer their letter from another church. These members are those who have never felt comfortable in a traditional church.” Ellis County Cowboy Church, the first cowboy church was established in Waxahachie, Texas, 12 years ago. Now, they have an attendance of over 2000 people. The Texas Fellowship of Cowboy Churches was formed, and then, because as Todd explains it, “You can’t put a fence around God in Texas,” cowboy churches spread across the south, and soon the American Fellowship of Cowboy Churches was started. Today there are over 200 churches built on this model with another 30 in the making. “God is doing this great work in our country,” Todd says. “He’s blessed the Biblical model of the church like the ones Paul used to reach the Gentiles, church for the unchurched.” During the time Todd was serving on the advisory board, he had also started working as a music minister at First Baptist Church Wake Village. Todd and his family felt at home in the church, especially since they still supported Todd’s traveling ministry on the weekends, but soon, Todd and Robin felt like they were being called away from the church. “This was such a hard decision,” Todd says. “This is an incredible church. The people are just amazing, and they really supported my family. They had a great youth and children’s ministry; this is the kind of church you want to raise your family in.” First Baptist Church Wake Village along with Cross Trails Cowboy Church in Fairly, Texas, the Texas Fellowship of Cowboy Churches and the Baptist General Convention of Texas, wanted to start a cowboy church in Texarkana and asked Todd to start as an interim pastor. “I was looking hard for a pastor,” Todd says with a laugh, “but then I realized God was calling me here. Now, I’m having a

ball.” In the seven years Todd has been pastor of the Circle J Cowboy Church, they have baptized over 380 people in a horse trough, sent out six pastors and started three mission churches. “We are commanded in the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 to go out and make disciples. I just want to be a good shepherd to the herd God has brought to this

church,” Todd says. In order to reach disciples, the Cowboy church hosts outreach opportunities every week at their covered arena. The events include ranch rodeos, ranch cuttings, ranch sortings, team ropings, barrel racing, ranch versatility classes, bull riding, and lots of events for kids.” “We share the message at every event,” Todd says. “Some of these people will come to a rodeo, but are afraid of the church. Once they come here, we hope they see the building, meet our members and think, ‘Maybe I will show up on Sunday.’” The church also offers a church service at 10:30 Sunday morning and a service at 6:30 on Wednesdays including a session for youth called “Rip, Jump and Snort” and a session for children, or “Little Buckaroos.” Another fellowship option includes the Round Pen meetings where groups meet across 7 different counties at various ranches, barns or workshops to

fellowship and study the Word. “We found that many people are intimidated by being invited to a Bible study,” Todd says. “So, we promise that we won’t ask anyone to pray, read the Bible or put them on the spot to ask questions. Instead, we try to someone who had never been to church feel safe and welcome.” Also, the church has developed their website, with help from Don Walker at Creative Edits. Visitors to the website can listen to messages, watch videos, audio messages, and study any topic at their own pace. “My eyes are being opened to how God uses media to reach people,” Todd says. “One of our members was having a really hard time in his life. He drove out to the lake and listened to messages online for four hours straight and accepted Jesus that day in his car. He found God through our website. We don’t know how many more people this tool has helped.” The church is currently hoping to expand their outdoor arena to become a multipurpose and education center with several climate-controlled rooms. Todd hopes it becomes the “biggest youth hangout on Wednesday night in region.” “We are hoping to start up a youth ranch rodeo practice,” Todd says. “Seasoned cowboys will be teaching young people and children roping and ranch skills, as well as building relationships with these kids. They will share how they surrendered their live to Christ and how He changed their lives.” Todd is praying that God will provide financial means to achieve their goals to expand this building as it will serve as another opportunity to reach young people and kids in the region. Todd also hopes that one day the church will be debt-free so that they can focus more on discipleship and mentoring of other young men called into the ministry. “I get to meet with every person who comes to know the Lord as a part of this great church,” Todd says. “I love to see them grow spiritually and see where God leads them. God changes lives and seeing that happen right here in our community is the best part of my job.” March 2013

www.alt-mag.com

EVENT

Godspell

WHERE

Texarkana College

WHEN

2/1/13-2/10/13

ALT Magazine

March 2013

CAST: Laila Aldubais, Austin Alford, Emily Cokeley, Amy Coleman, Leah Green, George Hornok, Culen Mcelhannon, Claire Reynaud, Kenneth Price, Zac Shipe

March 2013

www.alt-mag.com

EVENT

Grand Reopening

WHERE

Ashley Furniture

WHEN

2/7/13

Anti-aging

Facials

Body Wraps

French Wax Hair Removal

Salon Visageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Glycolic & Salicylic Acid Exfoliators

Non-Surgical Facelifts

Esthetique face & body salon

Owner/Esthetician, Mary Ann Pavey

4506 Summerhill, Texarkana,TX

903.794.4007

What it takes for a More Perfect You! Medical Grade Diamond Fusion Microdermabrasion Aruba Air Brushing Tanning 56

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March 2013

Tuesday-Friday: 10am-6pm

903.793.GROW (4769) 3603 Texas Blvd. Texarkana, TX

Spring Has Sprung at

Texarkanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Premiere

Floral Design Studio

TexRep New Membership Party EVENT

WHERE

Silvermoon

WHEN

1/31/13

It’s quite a catch, but only for a limited time. Hurry in to Wendy’s today!

Crispy Panko Breading. 100% Hand-Cut Cod Fillet. Warm, Toasted Buns. 58

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1. Chris Thomas and Michael Cooper 2. Judge Josh and Diana Morriss 3. Chris Polson and M. K. March 4. Jimmy “Smitty” Smith, Amy Coleman and Frank Poff 5. Laila Al-Dubais and Ellen Allard 6. Jennifer Lacefield and Mary Wormington 7. Earnest Pender, Ann Nicholas and Kaye Ellison 8. Jo and Gary Holder with Gracie Lipscomb 9. Chris Martin, Laila Al-Dubais, Vickie Al-Dubais and Amy Coleman 10. Frank Poff, Sabrina McCormick Skotnik and Michael Skotnik 11. Judge Josh Morriss, Chris Thomas and Stacy Mayo 12. William Morriss, Vicki and Richard Hornok 13. Paul March and Chris Polson 14. Darnell Fitzgerald and Donna Caver 15. Misc. Photos of Line up of upcoming TEX Rep Shows

March 2013

Why Wait? Meet Your Baby Today With A

3D/4D ULTRASOUND St. Patrick’s Day Special $20 OFF Actual Images from the Womb

Any 3D/4D Ultrasound Package with this Ad. Cannot be combined with other discounts.

Now Open in Texarkana! Call Today! (870) 779-PNUT(7688)

www.4DPeanutGallery.com March 2013

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Relay for Life Kick Off Party EVENT

WHERE

Hardy Memorial

WHEN

2/5/13

1. Fabienne Thrash, Michelle Hamilton and Haley Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neal 2. June Applewhaite, Letha Colquitt, Glenda Forte and Cathie Murphy 3. Teresa Lewis, Emma Strong and Niesha Wilhite 4. Elizabeth Greathouse, Landon, Darla Partin 5. Chandra Hardwick, Wade Crouse, Cheryl Gildon, Renea Booker, Stephanie Benson, Tena McGough, Elizabeth Benson, Rosie Benson, Marty Butler and Amanda Carlile 6. Marty and Donna Butler 7. Event Co-Chair Chair Renea Booker, Community Manger of Income Development of ACS Christal Prince and Event CoChair Lisa Barr 8. Wade Crouse and Rosie Benson 9. Renea Booker and Cheryl Gildon 10. Nancy Rowe, Addison, Allie, Don and Carla Edwards 11. Brooke Bender, Brenna Bender and Kailyah Llorance-Ford 12. Ryan Goins and Lisa Barr

10 60

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March 2013

Owner, Amber Lawrence

4018 Summerhill Square 903.793.PEAS Mon-Fri 10-5:30 Sat 10-4

Change your brain. Change your world. Call LearningRx at 903-838-0303

5602 Richmond Rd., Suite 104 Texarkana, TX 75503

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve Got Your Pot Of

Photo by: Kate Reynolds Photography

Gold!

www.poppopshoppe.com

903.793.0209

1.866.209.4553

Homemade Fudge Gift Boxes & Tins Gourmet Snacks March 2013

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EVENT

Ribbon Cutting

Encore Waggoner Creek Apartments

WHERE

WHEN

1/31/13

1. Ribbon cutting 2. Wayne Cranfill, Richard Reynolds and Jeff Sandford 3. Kasey Pearson, Victoria Ellefritz and Cannon Ball 4. VP Development, Encore Todd Thomas, Janelle Williamson and Richard Reynolds 5. Tiffany Kirkland, Jill McMahon and Patricia Cunningham 6. Frank Thomas, Nolan Smith, Cliff Guillot and Zach Norment 7. Kasey Pearson, Kirk Keller and Stephanie Ryan 8. Chanda Rousseau and Todd Thomas 9. Kelli Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neil, William Wright and Victoria Ellefritz

9 62

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March 2013

LOCATED AT 2101 TEXAS BOULEVARD

Texarkana’s Original Equipment Rental Company invites you to visit their 5,400 sq. ft showroom of party equipment and 6,000 sq. ft of banquet space now available for rent. An additional 10,000 sq. ft. of space is now available. Thank you for the opportunity to serve the Four States Area since 1958.

- Jane Agan & Family

Call Today to Book Your Equipment Rentals! 903-794-2101

903-277-3161

VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.SPECIALEVENTSTXK.COM TABLE LINENS (LARGEST “IN-HOUSE” INVENTORY IN FOUR STATES AREA) CHAIR COVERS SASHES CHINA CRYSTAL SILVER PUNCH FOUNTAINS CAKE PLATEAUS FOOD SERVICE EQUIPMENT CATERER’S EQUIPMENT TABLES CHAIRS MEETING ROOMS BANQUET ROOMS

*SETUP & BREAKDOWN SERVICE AVAILABLE

Tune In For

HERITAGE COUNTRY Barbara Mandrell, REBA, Merle Haggard, George Strait, Judds. KPIG has the only LIVE request show in the 4-state area!

r for Ou Listen E LIV w! g Sho n i n r o M

u! o Y y k Luc

Your Hits e t i r o Fav re! e H e r A

Liste

n for O LIVE ur Morn ing S how!

Tune In For

CLASSIC HITS Michael Jackson, Elton John, Bon Jovi, Madonna, KOOL & the Gang.

March 2013

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EVENT Reception in Honor of

1. Rosanne Stripling and Peter Racheotes 2. Dr. and Mrs. Ron Higgins, Igor Azenberg 3. Eric Hunter and AD Dawson 4. Chef Nefer, Ashley McKnight and Andy Robbins 5. Tom and Ann Coleman 6. Jerry Sparks and Tom Simmons 7. Carol Moore, Pat and Ed Black 8. JoAnn Rice, Dr. Emily Cutrer and Laura Spencer 9. Wayne and Brenda Smith, Tina Veal-Gooch 10. Mary Jo Essex, Wanda Henry and Olivia Taylor 11. Josh Davis and Jack Carter 12. Jamie Ashby, JoAnn Rice and Marjorie Chandler 13. Richard Box, Dan and Jalinna Jones, John and Charlotte Sharp 14. Vicki Huckabee, Melanie Gloster, Julie Sanderson and Mary Ellen Young

A&M-Texarkana President,

Dr. Emily Cutrer

WHEN

2/11/13

ALT Magazine

March 2013

ooding G decorative concrete

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not too early to start planning warm weather projects! Call us for a free quote! 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

EVENT

Sweetheart Dinner

WHERE

Special Events

WHEN

2/7/13

ALT Magazine

1. Susan Whitten, Sherri Waters, Joe and Rhonda Porcaro 2. Kim Burks, Jessica Hooten, Susan and David Whitten 3. Matt and Amy Nix, Connie Thomason, Paula Thomas 4. Neil Carmony, Felicia Hargrove, Denise Hildreth and Rose Archie 5. Neil Carmony and Felicia Hargrove 6. Ashley and Robin Traweek 7. Dan and Debrah Macentire, Lisa and Jack McCubin 8. Bree Robinson and Craig Legrand 9. Martha and Moises Rea 10. Jim Cook, Debi and Jeff Brown, Caleb Pitman 11. Mike and Misty Brantly, Neil Carmony, Felicia Hargrove 12. Kirk Keller, Sherri Waters, Susan Whitten, Millie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Corr, Norman Whitten, Janet Mosier and Dr. David Whitten 13. Jessica Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Corr, Parker Burks, Tyler Holt and Haley Hays 14. Sherrie and Chad Davison 15. Nick and Mary Ann Hines 16. Scott and Shelly Field, Mark and Cathy Vanherpen 17. Sean and Rebecca Mahaffey 18. Lauren and William Butler 19. Wendell and Robin Bruce 20. Mike and Debbie Brower, Laird Markland, Jaclyn and Marshall Gooding

March 2013

Check out the new classes offered at Legendary Firearms! CHL Class - 10 hours - 4 hours and 6 hours over two days - Classroom and Shooting April 2 - 6 pm-10 pm and April 6 - 9 am - 4 pm The content of the course is set by the Texas Department of Public Safety, as is the course length. The classroom portion of the course includes (I) The application process (II) License restrictions and rules (III) Non-violent dispute resolution (IV) Rights of citizens involving the use of force and their restrictions and (V) The safe handling and storage of firearms. The length of the course is 10 hours. Renewal course is 4 hours. _______________________

activities. The Basic Pistol Course will also help prepare the student for participation in other NRA courses and in the Texas CHL course. _______________________

(RTBAV). That means that you must have an overall personal safety strategy in place before you need it.

NRA Refuse to Be A Victim Course 2 Hours - Classroom Only

Through a 2 hour seminar called Refuse To Be A Victim®, you can learn the 42 different personal safety tips and techniques you need to avoid dangerous situations and avoid becoming a victim. Hundreds of federal, state, and local law enforcement officials across the country have implemented Refuse To Be A Victim® into their crime prevention and community policing initiatives. ______________________

April 23, 2013 - 7 - 9 p.m. Improve your personal safety strategies with NRA’s Refuse To Be A Victim® Program. Experts agree that the single most important step toward ensuring your personal safety is making the decision to Refuse To Be A Victim

Don’t set yourself up as a victim!

Hunter Education Course Coming Soon!

NRA Basic Pistol Shooting Course - 8 hours - Classroom and Shooting

NRA Home Firearm Safety Course - 4 Hours - Classroom Only - Coming soon!

April 20, 2013 - 8 am - 5 pm

NRA Personal Protection in the Home Course - 8 hours - Classroom and Shooting - Coming Soon!

The NRA Basic Pistol Shooting Course introduces students to the knowledge, skills and attitude necessary for owning and using a pistol safely. Through this course, the students will learn about pistol parts and operation, ammunition, gun safety, pistol shooting fundamentals, and pistol shooting

For more information: Call 903-277-5322. Email jaclyn@legendaryshootingsports.com. Visit www.legendaryshootingsports.com.

Catch all the

Arkansas Razorbacks Basketball & Baseball LIVE on

Fox Sports 1400 Jay Mohr

March 2013

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Christus St. Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gala

1. James and Michelle Marlar

EVENT

2. Lara and Van Alexander 3. Marc-Andre Bougie and Candace Taylor

WHERE Texarkana Convention Center WHEN

4. Dr. Ron Hekier and Dr. Rachael Keilin 5. Candace Taylor, Tony Varela and Misty Whitt 6. Nina and Bill Cork

2/1/13

7. Dr. James and Tammy Ward, Stacy Leonard and David Carter 8. Cristy Lummus, Pam Beck and Darla Clemment 9. Wanda and Malcolm McInnis with Donna Nash 10. Carol Stone, Paul Chiarizio and Patti Wheelington 11. Trish Reed and Lauree Romero

12. Whitney Fuqua, Kyle Barrett, Lauree Romero and Colt Caywood 13. Dr. Betty Feir, Hawley Holman and Danielle Lummus 14. Connor Patman, Mark Bledsoe, Betty Grace and Vicki Huckabee 15. Tammy Ward, Selena Jefferies, Dr. Cindy Porter and Stacy

Leonard 16. Greg and Terri Giles, Kyle Barrett and Colt Caywood 17. Debra Moore, Fa Ellen Yates and Tom Moore 18. - 19. Meet and Greet with Three Dog Night Band 20. Sister Ethel Puno, Julia Mobley, Sister Miriam Miller and

17 68

ALT Magazine

Sister Jeanne Connell

March 2013

21. Kathy and James Bramlett 22. Robert and Carla Sanderson 23. Bill and Judy Crutchfield, Mary Jo Essex and Arlene Shields 24. Erica and Eric Cain 25. Jim and Gaye Beard 26. Joanna Blair and Keith Garrett 27. Dr. Howard Morris and Eliane Lindsey

28. Christine and Dr. Brent Carmony 29. Chris and Michelle Karam 30. Misty Whitt, June Hatchett, Jordan Robertson and Tony Varela 31. Tina Shearman and Jeff Brown 32. Clint Priest, Erin Duke and Michael Griffin 33. Jackie and Bob Bruggeman, Kathy and James Bramlett, Bradley and Darlene Harden 34. Dr. Cindy Porter and Blake Cain 35. Chad and Dawn Stewart, Michele and Brian Daugherty, Keely and Mark Bledsoe 36. Stacye Magness, Francine Francis and Sally Stuart 37. Susan Landreaux, Jesse Buchanan and Francine Francis

37 March 2013

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Junior League Luncheon EVENT

WHERE Texarkana Convention Center WHEN

2/5/13

1. 2013 Oustanding Sustainer Award Receipient, Martha Norton 2. Mel Walsh, Lindsey McMilian, Patty Smith and Patsy Morriss 3. Jessica Smallwood and Janet Willis 4. LeAnn Wright and Jennifer Doan 5. Treva West, President Martha Norton (2013 Oustanding Sustainer) and Julie Sanderson, Sustianer President 6. Cindy Young and Kristen Giles

Billiard Maintenance Over a Decade of Experience.

Marshall Gooding - 903.277.0307

Leveling Felt Replacement Cushion Replacement Generic Repair Moving 70

ALT Magazine

March 2013

4 Playing Fields Fully Netted & Insured Gun Speed Tested Experienced Refs Shaded Picnic Area Private Parties Available

LEGE N D A R Y

925 Brower Lane, Texarkana, TX 75501 i n fo@ lege n da rys h o o t i n g s p o r t s. c o m w w w. l ege n d a r ys h o o t i n g s p o r t s. c o m

S at u rd ay : 1 0 : 0 0 - 6 : 0 0 - S u n d ay : 1 : 3 0 - 6 : 0 0

903.334.9605

March 2013

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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.

The Texarkana Humane Society is always needing volunteers as well as foster homes. If you would like to get involved and lend a helping hand they would love to talk with you. They are also needing the following items to help with the care of all the babies that come into foster: Puppy and kitten chow, formula for the babies, animal baby bottles, as well as monetary or debit card donations. We have a big need for individuals who have the time to bottle feed some of these babies. It is so sad when we cannot take any in because we are full and would welcome a few more bottle moms. It is a great expereince as well as very rewarding taking care of these little ones. If you can help with donations or feeding call Sherrie at 903 838-6334. Volunteers who agree to provide a foster home for our strays are provided with medical care for the animals. The Humane Society pays for all immunizations and spays or neuters the animal.

Texarkana Humane Society

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.) Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t neglect it! Call us and let us help you find a foster home. We will list your animal on our Facebook page at no charge. Let us help! For more information, contact Sherrie Thompson, President, at 903.838.6334, or go to www. texarkanahumanesociety.com. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also on Facebook!

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

1 1. Genney is our newest furbaby. She is a 6.8 pound maltipoo mix. Genney is around 4 1/2 months old, spayed, chipped and a bundle of love. We are working with her on her potty training and she is doing very well. A fenced yard is required. For more information call Diana at 903-838-4965. 2. Ralph is a handsome Isabella dapple daschund showing off for all the ladies. He is neutered, heartworm negative, chipped and current on all shots. This guy is around 30 pounds. His beautiful blue eyes will melt you. He gets along great with small dogs. A fenced yard is required. For more information call at Diana 903-838-4965. 3. Edna is a hound/boxer mix that is less than 2.

ALT Magazine

March 2013

She weighs only 27 pounds, is fully vetted, spayed, chipped and current on shots as well as on heartworm prevention. This pretty lady is laid back and will be a wonderful addition to your family. She is great indoors, house and crate trained and walks on a leash. A fenced yard is required. For more information call Diana at 903-838-4965. 4. This is Lilly. She was rescued from our local shelter. She is a little over 12 pounds, spayed, heartworm negative, current on shots and chipped. Lilly is around 6 years old. This pretty little girl gets along with other dogs, kids, is house and leash trained and rides great in a car. She would be a great addition to any family. A fenced yard required. For more information call Sherrie

at 903-838-6334. 5. Look at this precious little angel we call henry, formerly Rags. Henry is neutered, chipped, current on vaccinations, potty trained and heartworm negative. He weighs a whopping 15.2 pounds. This little guy has lots of love to share. If you are interested in this little guy call Sherrie at 903-838-6334. 6. Jack is a handsome yorkie/pekingese mix weighing a whopping 15.6 pounds. He was rescued from our local shelter and since has been neutered, current on shots, heartworm negative, and microchipped. He is doing great with his potty training, walks on a leash, rides in a car and sits on command. A fenced yard is required. For more info call Sherrie at 903-838-6334.

1. Bob is a male Terrier mix. He is waiting on a caring owner to come rescue him and give him a home. 2. Bruser is a male Chihuahua, about 2 years old. He’s a hyper, goofy, loving dog. All that’s missing is a great owner! 3. Chad is a male Shephard mix. He’s just waiting for

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.

a loving family. 4. Aticus is a male Beagle mix. He is ready to be loved. 5. Eddie is a male. He’s very loving and waiting for a responsible owner to adopt him. 6. Heinekin is a male Pit Bull. He would make a great

8. Johnson is a male Labrador mix. He’s got a goofy, fun personality and is looking for someone to love. 9. Kenneth is a male. He’s very loving and dreams of a home where he’ll be loved back. 10. Lizzie is a female Schnauzer mix. She’s cute, sweet and loves attention. 11. Loronzo is a male Chihuahua. He’s very loving and needs a family to call his own. 12. Midnight is a female Labrador mix and about a year

Who else can help? Artex Animal Welfare, Inc. (mostly horses) 903.824.1990

companion and is waiting for the home of his dreams. 7. Jeff is a male Wirehaired Terrier. He is skiddish at first, but if you show him you’ll love him he give unconditional love. He’s just waiting for his family.

and a half old. She is beautiful and ready to be someone’s best friend. 13. Renfield is a male Dachshund, approx. 4 years old. He needs a companion that will treat him right! 14. Sheba is a spayed female Labrador Retriever, approx. 8 years old. She’s great with kids, housebroken and looking for a family that will love her unconditionally. 15. Trixie is a female Rottweiler mix. She loves to play and would love an onwer that would spend time with her.

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

Three Rivers Animal Rescue 903.490.4048 Poodle Patch & Friends poodlepatch@yahoo.com Passion for Pooches (mostly small dogs) 903.832.8632

Texarkana Animal League 877.525.4825 Texarkana Reptile and Amphibian Rescue 903.809.3761

How can you help the THS? The Texarkana Humane Society is always in need of dry food for puppies, dogs, cats and kittens, scoopable cat litter and litter boxes, collars, leashes, toys, beds, heartworm and flea medications, gift cards and monetary donations. These donations are all tax deductible, as the Texarkana Humane Society is a 501c3 organization. If your are interested in donating, helping with events, fostering or working fundraisers call Sherrie at (903) 838-6334.

1. Thanks so much to the Nash family for adopting sweet Addey. Addey has a house full of sweet boys to play fetch with. Good luck and hugs to Jacob, Nick and Grayson. Many happy tails and trails to you all!

2. Look at Angel with her new mom Debbie Chandler. She fell in love with her at first site. Angel has lots of room to run and play and she also has a fur brother too, Chuckie. A big thanks to Debbie for taking this beautiful girl and giving her a home!

Courtesy of the Texarkana Humane Society

Happy Tails! March 2013

www.alt-mag.com

March

Calendar of Events

March 1-2

The Texarkana Coin Show. Friday: 2.00pm to 7:00pm. Saturday: 8:00am to 5:00pm. $2.00 Admission. Free Parking. Located at the Texarkana Convention Center. Family Friendly Event. Many Vendor/Display Booths For: U.S. Coins & Currency World Coins and Currency Commemoratives Proof Sets, Mint Sets Bullion, Supplies Jewelry, Sports Cards & Memorabilia, Other Items Educational and Historical Exhibits. Chances to Win Gold & Silver!!! 903-832-7933

March 2

Kiwanis Pancake Day 5K Race and Kids 1 Mile Fun Run at Texarkana College. All proceeds to fund major projects of the Kiwanis Club of Texarkana and local children’s organizations. Awards to top 3 male and female runners in the following age groups: Under 13, 13-19, 20-29, 3039, 40-49, 50-59, 60 and over. Awards also to the overall male and female winners. 903-791-0490

Texarkana Symphony Orchestra presents “The Emerald Piano Quartet” at Hardy Memorial United Methodist Church. General Admission $25.00 or $10.00 for students Repertoire: Schumann: Piano Quintet in E flat major, Op. 44 and Dvorak: String Quartet No. 12, in F major, op 96 “American.” 870-773-3401

March 9

Archonettes’ 4th Lil’ Miss Blue Revue and Blue Revue Princess pageant to be held at the Texas Middle School Black Box Theater, 2100 College Drive, Texarkana, Texas on March 9, 2013 at 6-8 pm. The contestants should age requirements are 3-5 for the Blue Revue Princess division and ages 6-8 for the Lil’ Miss Blue Revue. This will be a most enjoyable and rewarding period of our little one’s life. This pageant is not a Toddler’s & Tiara pageant. It’s a basic pageant where little girls can be and look like little girls with ruffle dresses minus the big hair and makeup; this is up to the parents & contestants’ discretion. There will be great entertainment: Tanji Tatum and the winners from the 4th Annual Talent show; Gracie, Kiana Smith, and Joe Teel & local celebrity judges.

ALT Magazine

TRAHC Arts on Main Spring Classes. Art classes taught by local, professional artists. Call TRAHC at (903) 792-8681 www.TRAHC.org for more info.

Please come out and support our youth. The entry fee is only $25.00 and application is due by March 2, 2013. All contestants and entertainers will be provided one complimentary ticket. The ticket will be given at practice on March 8th. ADMISSION: 5 and under FREE, Students $4.00 and Adults - $ 6.00 For further information, feel free to contact LaRhonda Hamilton at 903244-9283.

March 17

St. Patrick’s Day! March 18 - June 22

March 5

March 25 - May 4

March 2013

TRAHC presents 21st Annual Juried Student Exhibition. Free to the public. Call TRAHC at (903) 792-8681 or visit www.TRAHC.org for more info.

March 19

Women for the Arts presents “High Tea with Picassos.” Call for location and ticket prices: 903792-8681.

March 23

Women for the Arts presents “Party with Picassos.” Call for location and ticket prices: 903792-8681.

March 24

Palm Sunday!

March 26 - May 4

TRAHC presents Wizards of Pop: Reinhart and Sabuda A nationally touring pop art exhibition. Free to the public. Call TRAHC at (903) 792-8681 or visit www.TRAHC.org for more info.

March 26 - May 4

TRAHC presents Kathi Couch/Tyler Arnold. Art Exhibition. Free to the public. Call TRAHC at (903) 792-8681 or visit www.TRAHC.org for more info.

March 28

This year’s HandsOn Texarkana Draw Down will be March 28 at 1915 Olive Street, the Collins building and the theme will be a Hawaiian Luau! Shish-ka-bobs of shrimp, steak, chicken and veggies will be served on the grill along with delicious Hawaiian cuisine dishes. Lots of pineapple, coconut and chocolate deserts. Tickets are $100 each/includes dinner for two, hula lessons, limbo dancing and lots of prizes. The prizes are structured different to allow more people to win. Every 10th ticket drawn will win $100; the 25th ticket drawn will win $250, etc. Grand prize is $3,000. Get your ticket and get ready to have a great time! Call Kathey or Joy for your ticket at 903 798-3211.

March 29

Good Friday! March 31

Easter!

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Tracy Spradlin Broker 903-748-2477

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Jessica Snow Realtor 903-293-9183

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Realtor 903-701-1341

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ALT Magazine

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