ALT July 2012

July 2012 . Vol. 6, Issue 7

Magazine

A Walking Contradiction.

Jason Bonner

Paintball Player: Fierce Competitor Passionate Volunteer

A LADY OF VISIONS— A LIFE OF DISCOVERIES

Gwendolyn Marie Rood Wood Morris

An Impressive Ambassador

Savannah McLaughlin,

Arkansas Children’s Hospital Ambassador for 2012

July 2012 /contents

k / FEATURE STORY

10

Shooting sports...

Some would say that Paintball is not a “shooting sport.” This young man would be likely to invite you to play a few rounds before you make that decision!

F E AT U R E S

91

Real Estate

10

55

Resource Guide

88

Second Chances

85

Student Highlights

52

True Light

A Walking Contradiction

39 An Impressive Ambassador 66

A Lady of Vision A Lifetime of Discoveries

76 Uncorked

EVERY MONTH 6

Editor ’s Letter

50

Financial Focus

18

F i s h Ta l e s

80

F u r r y Ta l e s

EVENTS 27

Stroke Reunion

30 Heritage Baptist Church Groundbreaking 32

Interesting Journeys...

A leader in the area for women, Gwen Morris was a pioneer in many ways.

Legendary Shooting Sports Grand Opening

Sales & Marketing Manager / Charlie McMurphy Feature Writers / Jane Bouterse, Anne Fruge

Cruise Director / Mike Brower

K L F I G o l f To u r n a m e n t

75 50th Anniversary Golf To u r n a m e n t 82

Relay for Life

84

Kylee’s 2nd Annual Paws For a Cause

Calendar of Events

28

July Trivia

33

Medical Guide

78 Gooding Decorative Concrete

July 2012

Photography / Image Forward Photography, Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson, Rozana Page

74

86 July is National Picnic Month!

ALT Magazine

Associate Editors / Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson

54 RRFCU Mortgage Department

90

4

Publisher and Editor / Debbie Brower

Contributing Writers / Christine Amos, Mike Brower, Anne Fruge, Janet Green, Vincent Senatore, Dustin Stringer

C U LT U R E

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J u l y 2 0 1 2 / Vo l . 6 , I s s u e 7

21

Te x a r k a n a , A R To u r i s m

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Resource Guide

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.

©2012 ALT Magazine

BACK IN THE SADDLE AGAIN

Webster Cole knew the symptoms, and he knew he had to act quickly.

Webster was having a stroke.

“From my ambulance ride, treatment in the Emergency Room, to my transfter into the Intensive Care Unit, I remember every single moment of my stroke. Everyone at CHRISTUS St. Michael was wonderful- they knew their jobs. Because of them, I have no side effects from my stroke.”

As we observe National Stroke Awareness Month, we are thankful that Webster Cole acted quickly and chose CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System, a Primary Stroke Center. Under our care, including an Emergency Medicine physician, our highly-trained Stroke Team coupled with the specialized medicine provided through a Board Certified Neurologist via teleneurology, Webster received the latest technologies including the clot-dissolving TPA to fight the debilitating effects of a stroke.

Webster took the reins when it really counted, and today he spends his time with his wife, Cathy, or in the saddle with his horse, Ben. Thank you, Webster, for choosing CHRISTUS St. Michael for your stroke care.

Many Happy Trails To You.

DESIGNATED AS A

For more information visit christusstmichael.org/stroke

EDITOR’S letter

Freedom...

Let freedom never perish in your hands. ~Joseph Addison

Freedom...something we at times take for granted. It is

of the great USA -- and in fact, used that freedom to make inroads

something we have fought for year after year -- to have it and to

into job positions held only by men in an era when women were

keep it. The Fourth of July is all about Freedom -- the freedom to

homemakers. Pushing the limits of what she believed were not fair to

choose where we live, where we worship, where we work -- so many

women, even from a young age, Gwen used her knowledge and skill

freedoms! I am thankful that I live in a country where the freedom to

to eventually work at NASA, including working on the Saturn 5 rocket.

worship where I want to worship and be who I want to be is a way of

Wow! Freedom for women has come a long way in the past 50 years

life.

or so. Gwen is still enjoying her freedom to this day -- a delightful

So what does that freedom mean? It means that if I want to

woman who loves to have fun!

open a new business and I have the savvy and financial backing to

do so, and meet all the requirements of the laws of our great country,

a life with people who care about her -- and care for her. With the

then there is nothing to stop me from being successful but myself.

freedom to receive the best health care available, she has grown

Being a competitive person, I believe in the free market. I know that

into a remarkable young lady who is willing to help others. Sound

competition is good for businesses -- it makes you work harder and

familiar?

do a better job! That is evident in the qualit

y of ALT Magazine -- a publication that we have worked hard to make

the freedom to choose their way is the “theme” of this month’s issue.

the best in our area.

Having the freedom to choose your recreation, your job or your health

care provider is something we do not need to take for granted. We

Competition helps you excel. That is more than evident

For Savannah McLaughlin, freedom comes from enjoying

Although they may be totally different, helping others have

to Jason Bonner, a paintball player who loves to compete at

live in the best country in the world! Why would we want to live

tournaments -- some close to home, some far away from home. The

anywhere else?

freedom to travel to different locales has made Jason an excellent

player -- and a fierce competitor! His love of the game is evident

thankful for. God has truly blessed my life -- starting with the many

-- and although he may be a part of a team called “Greed,” he is

freedoms I an afforded. So when you start feeling bad, look around.

definitely not greedy when it comes to helping others. Sharing his

There are lots of opportunities to help others -- whether through a

love of this wonderful game with others just comes naturally to him

sport, a job or a health care issue. The joy you get from helping

-- even when it is to “older” people like me who know nothing about

someone else have a little bit of joy in their life will never leave you.

the game. What a contradiction! Fiercely competitive, becoming a

I love my job, my family, my church, and have so much to be

May God bless you!

teacher of the sport, Jason is there for all who want to learn.

6

Gwen Morris has enjoyed the freedom of being a citizen ALT Magazine

July 2012

Publisher/Editor

AMERICANS PAY OVER

7,000,000,000

$

IN ATM FEES EACH YEAR...

BUT NOT

CUSTOMERS

NO ATM FEES ANYWHERE. PLUS FREE CHECKING & FREE DEBIT CARDS Texarkana • New Boston • Hope • Blevins • Lewisville

A Walking Contradiction.

By Anne Fruge

Although his team name is GREED, paintballer, Jason Bonner, exhibits generosity as he volunteers his time and knowledge to the Ark-La-Tex’s newest paintball park.

“I like paintball because how else are you going to shoot someone and not get in trouble?” Jason Bonner, division 4 paintball player says. “Not only that, but you get a huge rush from winning…it brings out your competitive nature. Who will be the last one standing?”

Not many citizens in this area know much about paintball other than the fact that people use guns to shoot people with paint, and this does not sound fun to many; however, as Jason explains, paintball is also a great team building, strategic game like many of the rest of our beloved sports.

“What’s so great about paintball?

Well, it builds good qualities in a person.

You have to communicate with your team, take criticism, problem-solve, and come to the game with a good work ethic,” Jason says. “I think sometimes people get the bad idea that paintball is a violent sport; however, the worst thing that could happen from a game of paintball is if you twist your ankle running. As long as you wear gear or padded clothes (see Jason’s other tips in the sidebar), you will be fine, and you will have fun.

The first time Jason ever played the sport he now loves was back in 2002. He graduated from high school in Redwater in 2000 and was attending Texarkana College at the time. A group of childhood friends gathered in a wooded area behind a subdivision to play and convinced Jason to try it.

“I was scared at first,” Jason recalls. “Paintball was pretty new to us, and I had nothing to expect. However, after you get shot a few times, the fear fades away and the real fun begins.”

This first experience hooked Jason, and he never quit playing; however, without an authentic field, he had to travel to other cities in the area.

“The wooded fields are fun, but it’s more of a hunting game,” Jason says.

“That’s where I first started playing, so I can appreciate it, but I like playing on the inflatable fields. It appeals to me because it’s fast-paced, strategic and easier to play.”

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Most weekends, Jason would travel to Dallas or Shreveport to meet with other paintball aficionados to practice or play in tournaments.

“It’s fun to travel and meet new people,” Jason says.” I was never a very sociable person, so I finally found my niche. When you get to a field, everyone is there for the same reasons, and you bond over similarities.”

Paintball remained a hobby throughout college at Texas A&M Commerce where Jason pursued a degree in computer information systems. Upon graduation, Jason began working at his parent’s shop, Ark-La-Tex Driveshaft & Machine. His natural ability and interest in machinery actually led Jason to start looking at his paintball equipment in a new way.

“In order to feel successful at paintball, I like to play at higher level, but I also like messing with my paintball equipment, especially modifying my gun,” Jason says. “I’d love to get into that area.”

In 2005, Jason started a team, Greed, with his cousin and one of their friends. Aside from local and regional events, Jason’s team won the LAPL (Louisiana Paintball League) series last year in Ft. Polk, LA. They are currently playing for the series again this year in Shreveport.

“We all enjoy the game and enjoy playing together,” Jason says. “This brings me to another great thing about paintball: running a team is a little like running a business. You have to be organized, plan, follow a budget and be good with people!”

Ironically enough, Jason’s passion for the game helped

Jason’s Tips for First Time Players Wear enough clothes to serve as padding. *Make sure they are old clothes and shoes like blue jeans, work clothes, sweat shirts, work boots or athletic shoes.

If you wear long sleeves it might help a little bit. However, if you like playing, invest in some good gear.

There’s really no set strategy. After you hear the “3... 2...1,” shoot someone first.

Pay attention to the referee.

Wear a mask (they have all the gear you need available at Legendary Shooting Sports).

Don’t shoot your teammate in the back (Mike Brower)!

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Bring friends to make it fun!

July 2012

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13

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

create a great first date opportunity with his wife of five years, Brandy. After his mom introduced them, Jason invited Brandy to dinner at a local Italian restaurant and then to a paintball tournament the next day.

“We’ve been together ever since,” Jason says. “She’s at all the tournaments she can attend, and she’s my biggest fan.”

Though he loves to travel, when Jason heard that a field was going to be built in Texarkana, he wanted to find out more.

His cousin went to church with the owners of Legendary Shooting Sports, and after finding them on Facebook, Jason contacted them to help give them ideas about fields he had played on and how to create the best environment possible for both novice and experienced players.

“This entire field building process has been a huge learning experience and we have been so blessed that Jason has been there with us every step of the way. Whether it was answering ‘newbie’ questions, repairing guns or teaching people paintball skills they would otherwise not think about, Jason is a huge part of our operation, even though he’s not technically an employee. He’s selfless in ways many guys with his amount of skill would not be; he cares so much about expanding the sport in our area and bettering paintball, in general, that he will take the time away from his own practice to help others in any way that he can,” explains Jaclyn Gooding, an owner of Legendary Shooting Sports. Jaclyn adds, “You want to know anything about paintball? Jason is your guy!”

Jason also helped give tips about what kind of equipment to buy and how to set up a competitive field in preparation for future tournaments.

“What’s great about Legendary Shooting Sports is that is not only that it’s close, but it’s a legitimate facility with trained referees, equipment, and people who care about making it a good experience,” Jason says. “You can go out there and not know a thing about it and still be taken care of.”

Now, Jason is offering training classes to novice paintball players at Legendary Shooting Sports on Thursday from 5-6 p.m. and Saturday from 9-10 a.m.

“I encourage anyone looking to become competitive in the sport to come out and get better,” Jason says. “I’m just excited to have a local facility where I can see other people enjoying the sport, and I would love to see our area become more paintball competitive like Dallas, Houston, and other big cities.”

Regardless of your experience level, Jason encourages everyone to try the game, especially if you can get together a group of coworkers, a youth group, or even just a group of friends.

“No matter what, you are going to have a good time, and you might even find something you love to do,” Jason says. “It’s a great work out, a great team building activity and it builds confidence and self esteem. Just remember…shoot everyone before they shoot you.”

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Looking forward together with confidence

Build your financial future When you’re ready to build on your achievements, our trusted experts are ready to support your personal and professional goals. Our bankers live and work in your community and know that good relationships make us all stronger. With our customized tools and services, we can help you build a legacy of wealth and success.

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wellsfargo.com © 2012 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved.

Member FDIC. (721405_05258)

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Looking for a fun and exciting activity to do with your friends, family or group? Look no further! Paintball has made its way to Nash, TX with it’s own dedicated facility that opened in May, 2012.

Legendary Shooting Sports will offer players two fields with blow up courses, one spool field, one woodsball field, as well as rental equipment and other necessary items.

Don’t worry if you’re not familiar with the sport! It’s just as much fun for amateurs as pros. The game is a fairly simple concept: teams try to eliminate opponents from play by hitting them with paintballs shot from a compressed air powered gun to mark the opponents with dye.

“Our main goal is to provide a safe environment where people of all ages can come have good, clean fun. Everyone has been very excited about this and we hope to be successful enough to add more courses and products every year. We can’t wait for Texarkana to reap the benefits of paintball,” says coowner Marshall Gooding.

The benefits of paintball don’t just end as a fun activity, it’s great exercise.

This physical activity burns calories as the player has to walk up on the enemy without being detected then has to run when retreating or charging.

Paintball is also a favorite “team building” activity. A team needs to work together, learn from mistakes, make plans and strategies and learn how to coordinate these abilities together to have successful results. It is for such reasons that some corporations send their employees to play paintball to strengthen teamwork and solving problems skills.

Many find it surprising that paintball is very safe. Research published by the Minnesota Paintball Association has argued that paintball is one of the statistically safest sports to participate in, with 2 injuries per 10,000 players annually, and these injuries tend to be incidental to outdoor physical activity (e.g. trips).

Gooding says, “we look forward to working with the community as much as possible, whether it’s individuals, churches, community groups, whatever! We’re excited about the opportunities ahead of us!”

Learn more at www.legendaryshootingsports.com.

Pain Management

tight you could bounce a quarter off of them. After a week, I played again. The referee said go and four steps in, I pulled a muscle in my left thigh. I hobbled through five games and limped for a week. The next week, everything felt pretty good and I played again.

by Mike Brower Three steps into the first game, the same thigh felt like someone stuck a knife in it and twisted….OUCH.

L

earning you have certain limitations as a 54 year old that you didn’t have as a 20 something is an eye opener. As a 25 year old, I could do lots of stuff that involved straining muscles, pulling muscles and all around general pain which would magically heal up in a day or two.

Now, well, it takes longer, lots longer.

Over Memorial Day weekend I played several games of paintball and, well, had some thigh muscles that were so

Well, we are a week from that stupid move and it still hurts. I limp around like a pirate with a peg leg. This kind of stuff never happened while fishing. I guess I’m using some different muscles that don’t get the same workout when fishing.

I have stretched and stretched and to what avail? I guess I need to resign myself to the fact that my body is older and can’t do the same stuff I used to do as a kid. Well, that may be true but I’m not going to stop. Pain is becoming my good friend, just like aspirin has, and as I have been told -- and my advice to younger friends happens to be -“Getting old is a bummer, don’t let it happen to you!”

Building brighter tomorrows TEXARKANA COLLEGE 2500 N. Robison Road | Texarkana, Texas 903-823-3456 | texarkanacollege.edu

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Crossroads Business Park of

Texarkana, Arkansas

Excitement. Convenience. Growth.

A catalyst for new growth, Crossroads Business Park is bringing new business to Texarkana, Arkansas. Conveniently located north of Interstate 30, between Stateline and Jefferson avenues, this 1,000 acre business park is booming! Two hotels are already serving the area -- Best Western Plus Texarkana Inn and Suites, and the Holiday Inn Express. The announcement of a new Holiday Inn Select and Convention Center will add to the choice selection for visitors to our city.

The Best Western Plus Texarkana Inn & Suites offers the best in customer service & amenities. This brand new Texarkana hotel features 76 well-appointed guest rooms and suites, each featuring cable satellite television and high-speed Internet access. This 100% non smoking hotel also features an array of amenities including a complimentary full breakfast, free parking, a full-service business center and meeting space accommodating up to 10 people.

When you stay at the Holiday Inn Express® Hotel & Suites Texarkana East, you will have access to a great 24-hour Business Center and 1,200 square feet of event space for your use. Amenities, including an indoor pool, a 24-hour Fitness Center and free Express Start Breakfast Bar, to make your stay a great one. Each guest room is equipped with free high-speed, wireless Internet access, a 32-inch LCD HDTV and a spacious work desk. You can sleep like a baby in a plush king or queen bed with triple-sheeted bedding.

The newest addition, the Holiday Inn Select and Convention Center, will be a “hub” for the area. From conventions, to weddings, to reunions, visitors will be able to take advantage of all the amenities that Texarkana, Arkansas has to offer. A water park, connected to the hotel and convention center, will add an additional enticement for young and old!

Naturally, with the increasing presence of new hotels, shops and restaurants are attracted to the business park! Copeland’s of New Orleans originated in a place with its own unique flavors, fashions and passions. Over 25 years ago, the tradition began that the family is proud to carry on today: to serve an authentic, hometown New Orleans taste and ambiance to guests who enjoy truly exceptional food and hospitality.

A casually festive atmosphere combines New Orleans flavor and comfort with an upscale sensibility. From the Creole favorites that embody the heart and soul of Southern Louisiana, to the flavorful takes on seafood, pasta, salads, steaks and desserts, Copeland’s offers something for everyone.

Aven Williamson, developer of the property, has met the standards set by the city, including underground utilities and upscale landscaping.

Harold Boldt, Texarkana city manager, says, “We are trying to carefully find the right partners. With a traffic count between 60,000 and 70,000 cars a day on I-30, which is expecting to double in the net few years, it is the ideal location.”

With an ideal location full of beauty and modern charm, superior places to stay, and a new convention center and water park, the decision to locate at Crossroads Business Park is an easy one! Boldt hopes to attract additional businesses to build on the base already in place.

A booming metropolitan area conveniently located halfway between Little Rock and Dallas, Texarkana is the perfect spot for travelers to stop and dine, enjoy the outdoor opportunities in the area, shop or just relax! Come see what is going on at Crossroads Business Park!

Gather at the Texarkana Convention Center at the Crossroads...

SM

Work.

Reunite.

Play.

Celebrate.

Shop.

Rendering of Texarkana Convention Center at the Crossroads

Relax.

Learn.

Enjoy.

Texarkana Convention CenterSM at the Crossroads Once inside the Convention Center, the movable walls and ceilings of this stateof-the-art facility will allow rooms to be configured for large or small groups.

Large doors can be opened on the side of the building to allow objects from very small--Volkswagens-- to full size SUVs and everything in between to be brought inside the Center for display. This space will prove ideal for flower or bridal shows or arts and craft displays.

Rendering of Holiday Springs Water Park

The Center’s ballroom can comfortably accommodate 1,000 people at one time or be divided into three meeting rooms providing space for about 300 people at a time, and one smaller room for 100 or fewer.

Conventions, trade shows, weddings, parties and endless other events will come to life in this state-of-the-art facility!

Holiday Springs Water Park With attractions for the young and old, including a lazy river, adult thrill rides and leisure pools, kids pool, a splash pad, rides, tube slides, body slides, whirlpools, changing rooms, lockers, concession stands, rest rooms and gift shop, this park will offer a treat for every member of the family.

Anticipated Openings - Spring 2013.

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Are You Searching for the Dream Venue for Your Dream Wedding?

Your Search Can Come to an End...

The Thoughtfully Designed Upscale Landscaping of the Outdoor Courtyard and Garden Areas Further Enhance the Appeal of the Texarkana Convention SM Center.

Book Your Event Soon, and Watch Your Dreams Become Reality...

Exceptional beauty and design combined with ample room for seating and event equipment make the outdoor garden area of the Texarkana SM Convention Center the perfect place to enjoy time to yourself or host a social event!

Careful planning has gone into the design of lush landscaping, elegant outdoor architecture, a tranquil water feature and upscale patio areas to be enjoyed by a small group or a big group!

Whether you are planning a private party, family or school reunion or an intimate or large wedding, the beauty and atmosphere of this outdoor space are simply impossible not to fall in love with!

Contact us to book your event today!

870.216.2000

hirenk2000@yahoo.com

EVENT

Stroke Reunion

WHERE

Wadley Education Center

WHEN

5/31/12

1. Leon and Angie Elijah 2. Mary and Leon Page 3. Dr. Mark Wren and Dr. Malik 4. Group Photo of Stroke patients 5. Doni Phillips and Shelby Brown 6. Kim Lewis, Heather Hornbuckle, Alicia Barton 7. Michelle Brown and Mike Brown 8. Christie Farooq and William Terry

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July Trivia

Did you know...

The major objection to being ruled by Britain was taxation without representation.

The colonists had no say in the decisions of English Parliament.

Independence Day was first celebrated in Philadelphia on July 8, 1776.

The Liberty Bell sounded from the tower of Independence Hall on July 8, 1776, summoning citizens to gather for the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence by Colonel John Nixon.

On June 24, 1826, Thomas Jefferson sent a letter to Roger C. Weightman,

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declining an invitation to come to Washington, D.C., to help celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. It was the last letter that Jefferson, who was gravely ill, ever wrote.

Both Thomas Jefferson and John Adams died on Independence Day, July 4, 1826.

The 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence did not sign at the same time, nor did they sign on July 4, 1776. The official event occurred on August 2, 1776, when 50 men signed it.

The names of the signers of the Declaration of

Independence were withheld from the public for more than six months to protect the signers. If independence had not been achieved, the treasonable act of the signers would have, by law, resulted in their deaths.

The origin of Uncle Sam probably began in 1812, when Samuel Wilson was a meat packer who provided meat to the US Army. The meat shipments were stamped with the initials, U.S. Someone joked that the initials stood for “Uncle Sam�. This joke eventually led to the idea of Uncle Sam symbolizing the United States government.

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EVENT

Groundbreaking

1. Pastor Tim Montgomery 2. Tim Montgomery and Jeff Sandford 3. Pastor Tim Montgomery speaking to church 4. Lon Harvey, Connie Magness, Bob Murray, Terry Bewley, Tim Montgomery, Bobby Ables, Dave Benham, Jonathan Edens, David Crenshaw, Richard Chancey, Jerry Norton 5. Casey Lauterbach, Kale Magness, Matt Graves, Belinda Nations, Tim Montgomery, Tonya Byrd, Terry Bewley, Rachel Cheatham, David Farren 6. Terry Bewley, Bob Murray, Tim Montgomery, Randy Murray, Randy Hagar, Rick Lindsey

Heritage Baptist Church WHERE

WHEN

6/17/12

1

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2

3

4

5

6

1. Kayla Brown and Jimmie “Dirt Flopper” Page 2. Joe and Christine Amos 3. Jared Carver and Kyler Alamond 4. Brandon and Anita Carver 5. Charlie McMurphy and Debbie Brower 6. Jason Bonner 7. Tyler Johnson 8. Paintball cake! (By Julie’s Deli)

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2

3

5

6

7

An Impressive Ambassador Savannah McLaughlin, Arkansas Children’s Hospital Ambassador for 2012

Summer 2012 33

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SUMMER 2012 /contents

k / COVER

An Impressive Ambassador

F E AT U R E S 38

An Impressive Ambassador

46

Ouch!

54

Danger in the Dorms!

54

RRFCU Mortgage Department

38

Savannah McLaughlin has been named an ACH (Arkansas Children’s Hospital) Ambassador for 2012, the 100th Birthday year for this birthplace of miracles in Little Rock, AR.

Swimmers Ear

HELPFUL INFO 50

Financial Focus

52

The True Light

56

Resource Guide

Publisher and Editor / Debbie Brower Associate Editors / Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson Photography / Image Forward Photography, Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson, Rozana Page

46

Sales & Marketing Manager / Charlie McMurphy

Swimming Fun...or not...

Swimmers ear can be very painful.

Check out our tips!

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Feature Writers / Jane Bouterse, Anne Fruge

w w w. a l t - m a g . c o m

info@alt-mag.com 200 Heather Dr., Texarkana, TX 75501 (903) 334-9605

©2012 ALT Magazine

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By Jane Bouterse

She almost bounces when she walks through the familiar College Hill Elementary School hallways.

Obviously, the polished floors and walls covered with pictures and the colorful creativity of children provide her a comfortable space. She is Savannah McLaughlin, a sprightly nine year old whose short, naturally curly, dark blonde hair frames her small, smiling face. Savannah is 48 inches tall, weighs 52 pounds and has bright green eyes that seem to capture every detail of the space she occupies. She is a busy third grader who likes drawing, coloring and painting in art, enjoys reading and participating in plays and finds math fun.

Her art work can be admired online at www. artsonia.com, the Kids Art Museum which displays K-12 artwork from kids all over the world. Selections can be viewed, favorites chosen and even purchased, if desired.

As for reading, Savannah relishes magic fairy books.

Because Savannah and her family, grandparents Donna and Ken McLaughlin, often visit Gulf Shores, Alabama, and the sea life found there, she has fallen in love with dolphins. “They are really kind,” Savannah explains, “and they have a blow hole and squirt water. They are fun.” Kindness is an easily detectable characteristic of this child. When she was five years old, her curly locks reached her waist until she happened to see a picture of St. Jude Children with no hair. When Donna explained they had lost their hair because of cancer, Savannah volunteered to have 12 inches of her hair cut for Locks of Love. The change in her own hair is still evident.

No matter, Savannah moves on. Near the end of her school year, Savannah and her third grade classmates staged a play about immigration. She played a German and learned to say “Guten Tag!” meaning, “Good morning!,” “Good day!”, or “Good afternoon!” “That sounds so funny,” Savannah laughs but adds. “I said, ‘This country rings. It brings freedom to all its immigrants.’” Then she joined in the singing of “This Land is Your Land.” Savannah admits she enjoyed the opportunity to perform, but “it was kinda’ scary.” As she has already discovered, however, these performances are providing her some valuable experience.

Savannah has been named an ACH (Arkansas Children’s Hospital) Ambassador for 2012, the 100th Birthday year for this birthplace of miracles in Little Rock, AR. The ACH website explains that “Arkansas Children’s Hospital, a private, nonprofit institution, is the only pediatric medical center in the state and is one of the largest in the nation. With 316 staffed beds, Arkansas Children’s Hospital is a tertiary care, regional referral center treating children from birth to age 21, who come from every county in Arkansas and many nearby states.

“ACH is committed to working with others to achieve high quality, cost-effective, fully accessible services for Arkansas’ most precious resource—our children, without regard to race, religion, or inability to pay.”

The children who benefit from the services of Arkansas Children’s Hospital serve as Ambassadors of ACH and tell their stories whenever they have the opportunity. Savannah admits that “I really don’t like talking”-- she would rather be dancing. “I have to talk to a bunch of people at once. I’m really scared about that,” but she never allows her fearful boundary to stop her. She knows making people aware of the wonderful doctors and nurses at ACH is important.

This impressive little girl speaks from personal experience.

When Savannah was born eight weeks premature in a Little Rock hospital, she was placed in an incubator for eight weeks. She was July 2012

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covered by an air tent with tubes running everywhere, and “no one was allowed to touch me” she reports. The McLaughlins--Donna, an Inspector for the City of Texarkana, TX Health Department, and Ken, then an employee of Gordon’s Jewelers -- maintained a loyal vigil.

They arranged their work hours to allow one or the other of them to be by Savannah and her mother’s sides at all times. “We just passed each other on the highway,” Donna observes.

Eventually, Savannah was nicknamed Thumper by a friend of Donna’s because one foot of this little one was always –it appeared— maintaining a beat. One day a nurse overheard the Thumper conversation and pulled Donna aside. “Honey, do you realize what’s going on? Savannah is going through withdrawal.” Savannah was born with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS).

According to the Mayo Clinic, “Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)* is a condition that results from alcohol exposure during pregnancy.” Problems may be diagnosed in the initial weeks of a child’s life, months or years later. They can include difficulties with

• • • • • • • • •

Growth Facial features Heart health Hearing Vision Cognitive ability Language development Motor skills Behavior

*Although doctors aren’t sure how much alcohol you’d have to drink to place your baby at risk, they do know that the more you drink, the greater the chance of problems. Because there’s no known safe amount of alcohol consumption during pregnancy, don’t drink alcohol if you are or think you are pregnant or you’re attempting to become pregnant. You could put your baby at risk even before you realize you’re pregnant. www.bing.com/health/article/mayo-MADS00184/Fetal-alcohol-syndrome

As Savannah’s condition became more evident, The McLaughlins—who had cared for her since birth—took steps to gain custody of the child. At two months the papers were signed, and Savannah had the stable home she desperately needed, while Donna and Ken found themselves “former” Empty Nesters. The day they came home with Savannah, Ken and Donna had not only a newborn but also an apnea monitor to monitor her breathing, all the usual baby apparatus along with the promise of sleep-deprived nights. The journey on which they embarked promised and continues to be a challenging one. Yet all appeared to be off to a fairly smooth start.

During a routine check-up of two-year old Savannah, a visiting doctor from Arkansas Children’s Hospital noticed she had a heart murmur.

Heart murmurs are extra sounds the blood makes as it moves through the heart. They can be “innocent” and outgrown or “advanced” and dangerous. Immediately, she was referred to the Cardiology Clinic at ACH, and tests confirmed the murmur—a not surprising effect of fetal alcohol syndrome. Plans for an every six month examination were implemented and remain in place.

“’From our very first time at the hospital, we felt like everyone went out of their way to treat us with kindness and respect,” writes Donna.

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The years passed. Savannah’s medical issues seemed defined and under control. Her mind was sharp; there were no facial or physical deformities or many of the other FAS consequences the McLaughlins had been cautioned might develop. However, at age six, Savannah was still in 3T clothes. Her pediatrician became concerned when she remained on the lowest percentile on each growth chart.

Ultimately at ACH, she was diagnosed with another boundary to her health-- failure-to-thrive-syndrome, a consequence of FAS. A test of the pituitary gland, often called the “Master Gland” located between the base of the skull and the optic nerve, was in order. The pituitary gland controls many of the body’s functions, including the hormones responsible for growth.

The test began at 6 a.m. and required Savannah to be very still. First, she was given meds to make her sweat. At the end of each hour, the nurses returned to measure how much sweat the gland had generated. This procedure was repeated throughout the day, so by 7 p.m. when the testing finally ended Savannah was hungry, tired and very irritable. Donna reports, “The nurses were all so kind and patient with her. It was great.”

The pituitary test also revealed a cyst/ tumor at the base of Savannah’s brain stem. That discovery required that a seven year old Savannah have an MRI. For two hours, she had to lie perfectly still as the test, administered via her bottom, was being given. Nurses consistently encouraged her, “You’re doing so good, Savannah.”

The excitement for Savannah?

“I got to listen to Hannah Montana in the big tunnel I got in for my MRI.”

The tests confirmed that Savannah’s pituitary gland was not functioning at all. The MRI revealed what currently appears to be a fluid-filled cyst at the base of her brain stem. “Sometimes I can feel it,” Savannah says. Two problems identified; two solutions sought.

There was no first and second, but concurrent solutions had to begin.

The failure-to-thrive-syndrome has been addressed with hormone shots which Savannah now administers to herself. The shots must be given daily—no skipping on this one, so the medicine (which must be refrigerated) goes wherever Savannah goes. She describes the procedure matter of factly. She uses a pen (much like the pen diabetics can use). The area, usually her thigh, for the shot is swabbed with alcohol; the needle is attached to the pen, then the protective cover removed. Next the medication dosage, 1.0 is dialed. “Then you just take action,“ Savannah says. “Stick. Press the button/cap all the way down; count to 7, then take it out. One time Nana forgot and counted to 10. I was screaming.” Savannah shrugs her shoulders as she explains that her friends are really not that impressed by her shots. “Well, OK, I’ll watch you,” they say. Initially, Savannah was told she would need the shots at least until age 13, but on her last visit to ACH the age was raised to, probably, 17.

According to Donna, “When Savannah began taking the shots, they did wonders for her. Although she is still small for her age, she has grown taller and gained weight.” “I don’t want to be fat,” Savannah reminds her Nana, who smiles and shakes her head.

As for the cyst/tumor? The doctors are watching it, but their best barometer is Savannah’s dance which she thoroughly enjoys.

She studies jazz, ballet and tap with Miss Julie Aultman at Judith McCarty School of Dance. There is no doubt that jazz is Savannah’s favorite as she jumps up from her chair and moves everything that is movable in her young body. “Jazz has lots of different moves,“ she explains—and she seems to know them all. Doctors know if the tumor begins to change that Savannah will be limited in her ability

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to move—no running or walking and no coordination. More drastic actions will then be in order.

Although Donna and Ken have been “totally honest” with Savannah about her medical problems and included her in discussions of both diagnosis and treatment, they have also succeeded in creating for her a “normal” life. Savannah knows some choices she cannot make, like participation in robust athletics or ever consuming any alcohol. Children born with FAS can never take a drink. Alcohol for them is like holding a loaded gun to their bodies and pulling the trigger.

Savannah also understands the importance of eating properly and making certain that she receives her medication.

Otherwise, her life revolves around the “usual.” She enjoys good times spent with her friends Mackenzie Parker, Faith McGregor and Morgan Williams (“Her family is like a family comedy show.”) and Gabby Reed. They like to watch TV and play on Wii—especially Mario Brothers games.

American Girl Dolls are fun, too, and Savannah saves her money for special trips to the American Girl store in Dallas.

Savannah’s doll is from the Depression, and she understands that she cannot pull her hair or get the skin wet. “You have to be responsible.“

“I clean my room and help Nana with the laundry sometimes,” Savannah explains, as she accounts for the doll money she earns. “I load and unload the dishwasher. One time I didn’t do it all and Nana got half of my allowance.”

Donna listens and smiles a knowing smile. Savannah realizes that whatever rules exist they are for her own good, but sometimes rules are hard. “I have $127 right now, but I can’t take it all to the American Girl store because I have to go on vacation, too.”

“She’s tight,” Donna adds. “She will spend your money sooner than she spends hers.”

Donna and Savannah obviously have a healthy relationship.

Apparently the McLaughlins have defined Savannah’s boundaries clearly but do not prohibit her from attempting to move beyond them, hard as that may be. Savannah is dealing with the challenges of growing up in addition to the imposition of medical problems created for her by her mother’s choices. The paths all of the family must walk are not easy. As Donna acknowledges, the ACH support groups, especially the Circle of Friends, have been an invaluable source of strength and information, while “Our church has gone over and above ‘in support of the family—a trying time but a blessing time,’” according to Donna. “I’d do it again.”

Meanwhile, “Savannah continues to visit the ACH Endocrinology Clinic, and she is seen by the Cardiology Clinic as needed.

When she is older, she wants to attend the University of Arkansas and become a doctor at ACH, so she can help real babies.” In the interim, Savannah—talking and dancing and learning-- is serving as an Impressive Ambassador for the Arkansas Children’s Hospital.

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Smallest Miracles... Most Experienced Hands...

Arkansas Children’s Hospital, a private, nonprofit institution, is the only pediatric medical center in the state and is one of largest in the nation. With 316 staffed beds, Arkansas Children’s Hospital is a tertiary care, regional referral center treating children from birth to age 21, who come from every county in Arkansas and many nearby states.

Arkansas Children’s Hospital is a place where our society’s most vulnerable and wounded —whether by birth, accident or fate—experience miracles every day. “Every gift, large or small, helps Arkansas Children’s Hospital make sick kids better. When you give to ACH, whether it be of your time, talent or resources, you help us to provide care, love and hope for children who come through our doors seeking the very best in medical care. Giving to ACH is an investment in the future—theirs AND yours.”

Contributions are always welcome and can be made in a number of ways:

• • • •

Donate online – use your credit card Donate by Mail – ACH Foundation/ 1 Children’s Way, Slot 661/ Little Rock, AR 72202 Donate by Phone – Call 501-364-1476 to make a credit card donation by phone Other Ways to Give – Check out www.giving.archildrens.org

There are so many in Texarkana who benefit from and contribute to Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Please join them and all of those children who deserve a chance to live healthy lives!

Savannah, with the help of ACH and Donna and Ken McLaughlin, attempts to move Beyond the Boundaries which seek to bind her. These three continue to show how caring is so important and takes a great deal of courage—a lesson for us all.

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Swimmer’s ear is an infection of the ear canal. Normally, If you stick your finger in your ear, you’re feeling a little of the ear canal. But if you have swimmer’s ear, and you stick your finger in your ear — OUCH! It can be red and very sore!

Swimmer’s ear — also called otitis externa (say: o-ty-tus ek-stur-nuh) — is different from a regular ear infection. Swimmer’s ear happens when bacteria grow in the ear canal, which is a passageway to the eardrum. In that canal, you’ll find delicate skin that’s protected by a thin coating of earwax. Most of the time, water can run in and out of the ear canal without causing a problem. For instance, you don’t usually get swimmer’s ear from taking baths or showers.

Bacteria get a chance to grow when water stays in the ear canal and it washes away the protective coating of earwax.

Excessive swimming can wash away the protective wax and lead to lingering wet conditions in the ear canal. Bacteria grow, and the ear canal gets red and swollen.

How to Identify Swimmer’s Ear Swimmer’s ear may start with some itching, but try not to scratch because this can worsen the infection. Ear pain is the most common sign of swimmer’s ear. Even touching or bumping the outside of the ear can hurt. The infection also could make it harder to hear with the infected ear because of the swelling that happens in the ear canal.

If you think you or your child may have Swimmer’s ear, you should see your doctor. It is likely that antibiotic eardrops will be prescribed. Follow the doctor’s orders, and take plenty of time for the infection to completely heal before getting back in the water. The healing process can sometimes take as long as a week to ten days.

Preventing Swimmer’s Ear Simply put, Swimmer’s ear can be avoided by keeping water out of our ears. Fortunately, that doesn’t mean that your kids can’t swim and enjoy the water.

Consider an over-the-counter ear drying agent that contains isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) or one with acetic acid and aluminum acetate (Star-Otic).

If you prefer to DIY, it is possible to create your own homemade swimmer’s ear prevention solution by mixing equal parts of rubbing alcohol and white vinegar, and putting it in your child’s ears after he or she swims.

Another option for keeping water out of your kids’ ears is to use a barrier such as earplugs, earbands or swimcaps. Just be sure to keep an eye out for any ear irritation with the use of these water barriers.

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Rethinking The American Dream In A New Economy Investor psychology meets retirement planning in the midst of an economic meltdown.

It’s time to re-evaluate the way you make decisions in regard to spending, saving, borrowing and investing. The economic meltdown of 2008 has created an urgent need to rethink everything you thought you knew about money, retirement and even yourself— welcome to Retirementology®.

Retirementology examines concepts from the field of behavioral finance. It focuses on helping you understand how your attitudes, emotions and subconscious feelings can sometimes cloud your financial decisions. And the impact of emotional financial decisions could be even more damaging in this new economic climate.

Retirementology also challenges the popular notion of a retirement zone, which suggests that the most critical times for planning are the five years before and the five years after retirement. Instead, Retirementology contends that your whole working life is your retirement zone and that every spending decision made from the

time you earn your first paycheck can impact the lifestyle you will lead in retirement.

If you are one of the many people who have been impacted by the meltdown, then time is of the essence if you’re going to put together 4 a plan you can feel good about. The good news is that the advisers, products, programs, education, tools and techniques are in place to help you get on track to the retirement you envision.

This is Not your Father’s Retirement Future generations of retirees may have more to think about. What your parents were able to count on in retirement might not be there for you.

Healthcare Nightmare 8 Your fiscal health can be dramatically affected by your physical health. A couple aged 65 who has Medicare may still need more than $250,000 for healthcare premiums and out-of-pocket expenses if they live to an average life expectancy.

Social Insecurity The Social Security Administration projects that the program will pay out more than it takes in by 2016, and by 2037, benefits may run out altogether.

The Pension Plunge One challenge facing retirees is the decline of traditional pension plans. More and more of the pensions that do exist are at risk.

The Pension Guaranty Corporation, the government fund that insures pensions, ran a deficit of $22 billion in 2009.

The question is:

“What will you do next?”

1 Doolittle, Hilland, Online Forex Trading, “6600 Foreclosures Per Day,” October 8, 2009.

2 Zoomerang, 210-person survey, March 2, 2010.

3 Workforce Management, “More Employees Borrowing Against 401(k) Plans,” March 20, 2008.

Quotes taken from Retirementology focus groups in September 2009.

4 Mark Jewell, Yahoo! Finance, “Retired couples may need $250k for health care,” March 24, 2010.

5 Social Security Administration, “Highlights of Financial Position,” Fiscal Year 2009 Performance and Accountability Report, 2009.

6 Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation press release, “PBGC Releases Annual Management Report for Fiscal Year 2009,” November 13, 2009.

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by Anne Fruge

There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man. John 1:9

“The best lesson I ever learned is on his life, but he was not ready to yield to stayed in a shabby hotel, and every day how to trust God when you can’t see a way the call. In 1986, Jordan knew that God not we called about apartments,” Jordan says, out,” Reverend Larry D. Jordan says. “I’ve only wanted to help him in his personal life, “but, we had no rental history or money for known tough times. I’ve felt helpless and but also use his experiences to help others. a large sum per month, and I was feeling like there wasn’t a way out, but if you can He gave his life to the ministry, preached his helpless. I had trusted God when I took the trust God, then He will bring you through it.” first sermon, and has been preaching ever job, and I felt like He wasn’t providing for Jordan grew up in the small town since. me. I finally threw up my hands and said, of McGehee, Arkansas, where his mother, “I never had any formal seminary ‘God I’m tired.’ Not soon after, one of the Ella May Jordan, always made sure her training,” Jordan says. “I learned from other apartment owners called and said, ‘You five boys were in church on know, when I first moved Sunday. here, someone took a “As a kid, chance on me and “This to me is what ministry is all about: coming up in a single gave me a place to parent home with stay, and I’m going to meeting the needs of others. I want my life to five kids, things were do that for you.’ We already tough, but my moved in the next be remembered because I tried to reach and help mother was a great week, and I learned people become the best they can be. I don’t want role-model,” Jordan that I had to continue says. “With no help, to trust God when I to see them just satisfied with their life, I want she made sure we had couldn’t see a way clothes and food. She out.” them to excel.” Reverend Larry D. Jordan worked hard and rose After three up early and showed us years in Dallas at every single day that she the Ben Washington cared about us. She taught us Baptist Church, God sent that regardless of circumstance, you can do pastors, my childhood in church and the Jordan back to McGehee to pastor his anything in the Lord and seeing her live that word of God. Being raised in church really home church, the Bold Pilgrim Missionary out really instilled that in me.” changed my insight into the world, and I Baptist Church. He ministered there until It was in later dark times that began to pray for God to show me ways that July 1990 when he accepted a job at St. Jordan came to rely on the philosophy that He could use me.”

James Missionary Baptist Church where he Ella May taught her boys. Jordan was born However, just because he has served for nineteen years this month. with cataracts and had to wear thick glasses surrendered his life to ministry doesn’t mean His move to Texarkana and position in to see normally. He carried his family’s that Jordan did not continue to face trials the church has allowed Jordan to use his circumstances like a shroud and was and tribulations where he had to trust God. passion for reaching young people to start embarrassed of his physical appearance In fact, it was in those times that Jordan several new and innovative ministries in the and hand-me-down clothes. learned some of the most important lessons. community.

“I thank my mother for raising me Jordan felt God leading him to a One of the ministries that Jordan in church. You know, God says that if you job in Dallas after graduation from college. is most proud of is Boys to Men, a program train up a child in the way he should go He had never driven in a city before, so he that seeks to help encourage young men then he will not stray from it,” Jordan says. asked a friend to drive him for the interview. to be productive in society and school. Dr. “I remember having thoughts of suicide, and After getting the job at Allied Marketing, Cook, Jordan’s eye doctor, told him about I let God minister to me. I think that’s why I Jordan moved to Dallas. However, when he a program at their church to help foster have a heart for young people. I remember arrived, he had no place to stay and every and mentor young men, and Jordan saw what it was like to be looked down on, and I apartment seemed out of his “country boy” the vast importance of such a program in want to help kids realize how much they can price range. Jordan and his friend would their community. Now, boys from ages 2-17 overcome when they trust in God.” leave the parking lot from work, then circle gather on Mondays from 6-7 p.m. to go over After graduating high school in back around and park so they could sleep in Biblical lessons about attitude, behavior, and McGehee, Jordan attended University of our car. respect for themselves and authority.

Arkansas in Pine Bluff and felt God’s calling “After we made a little money, we “I believe this ministry is vital to our 52

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community because in today’s time, a lot of young men need role models,” Jordan says.

“Young men get the idea that church is just for women, but we try to show them how to become men of God. I tell them, you can do some things in life, but with God you can do more.”

The young ladies group, Christian Charmers, is led by his wife to help teach young women to respect themselves and lead the lives of Godly women.

“At the church and through these ministries, we seek to encourage young men and women in all situations,” Jordan says.

“We help instill in them that there will always be someone to help you when you help yourself.”

Jordan also sees the importance of teaching Godly values to today’s youth through his work as the I.S.S. instructor at College Hill Middle School. Jordan was specifically asked to take the job by the superintendant because of his rapport with young teens. Jordan wasn’t looking for a full time job on top of his ministerial duties, but he saw another opportunity to reach kids that were not receiving help or support at home.

“I ask the kids that come through I.S.S. if they love their parents, and they say that they do,” Jordan says. “But, I tell them that love is an action word. Their parents show them love by bringing them to school, giving them clothes and food and those phones they always have in their hands.

Then, I tell them, how do you show your love for them? By coming to school and getting into trouble? It gets them thinking and helps put them in a new perspective.

I seize every opportunity I can to drop a nugget of wisdom into their lives.”

It was his work with teens that brought Jordan to a young man, Alex Peoples, that Jordan took under his wing.

Jordan worked with him all throughout high school and encouraged him while he attended Arkansas State University. Alex got his degree, a job, his master’s degree and Jordan married him and his wife just a few months ago.

“This is the kind of goal that makes me feel like I’ve done something with my life,” Jordan says. “I’ve touched one life. I helped one life move in the right direction.

That is how I want to be remembered, especially when I see so many kids who don’t make it. The odds were stacked against Alex, but he still made it through.”

A lot of Jordan’s nurturing and encouraging skills come from his experiences as a parent to four kids: Larry Dewayne Jordan Jr., Jennifer Jordan, Darius Blake and Blake Jordan.

“My days are long,” Jordan says.

“My day starts at 3 a.m. I go to the gym at 4 a.m. then get to school by 6:30. After school, I run home and then spend most evenings in the church for ministry and classes. I couldn’t do it without the support of my family and their belief in our ministry.”

Another community service project that Jordan is passionate about is a coat drive for area schools with the Elbethel Baptist District. Working in the schools has allowed Jordan to see kids get off of the bus with their arms tucked into their shirts, cold and without a jacket.

“I try to touch them with my encouraging words, but I know that God calls us to fill a physical need as well, and these kids need warmth,” Jordan says. “So, we work with counselors at each campus to get a list of students who would be deserving of a new coat, and we deliver it to them. God says that to be a good receiver, you have to be a good giver, and that applies to all aspects of life. Sometimes to help someone it takes filling a physical need, but other times it’s about giving up your time or talents. We all have some way that we could get involved in our community and help.”

Pastor Jordan also leads a marriage class that helps young couples strengthen their marriage and deal with each other.

“A marriage is not a match made in heaven,” Jordan says, “It’s about two people trying to become one, and that takes a lot of work, mentoring and Christian example.”

Though he has a lot on his plate, Jordan also hopes to start a new ministry over the summer that encourages young people to work out. Physical fitness is already a passion for Jordan, and he says that kids run up to him and ask to “see his muscles.”

“It sparks a conversation because they want to know where I work out and why,” Jordan says. “I teach them that health is important. You function better in all areas if you are in better health. A lot of these kids can’t do PE because they have diabetes, high blood pressure, etc. We want to encourage them to exercise and maintain a healthy lifestyle throughout their lives.”

In order to see the health initiative ministry get off the ground, Jordan needs weights and machines that people would be willing to donate for him to set up a training room at the church. Jordan imagines that they could meet for one hour a day, three to four days a week to work out.

“If you really want to reach kids, you’ve got to do things that they like doing,” Jordan says. “Kids at this age are fascinated with working out and getting muscles. But, this is also a time for us to train them and teach them about frustration, having a positive mind, getting away from the “I can’t” attitude. Frustration and “I can’t” follows them in the classroom, sports and at home, but by using the weights we can talk about how to deal with these things.”

“This to me is what ministry is all about: meeting the needs of others. I want my life to be remembered because I tried to reach and help people become the best they can be. I don’t want to see them just satisfied with their life, I want them to excel.”

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Dangers in the Dorms...

Heading off to college is an exciting time, but there are some things you should be prepared to prevent.

Meningitis

freshman out of the game during their first semester.

it is advised to find new living arrangements as soon as possible.

Colds and flu

Athlete’s foot

The petri dish of a dorm room is the perfect breeding ground for the flu (normal and swine) and the common cold. These respiratory conditions are passed through vapor droplets, infecting everything they touch, such as a desktop or the remote control.

When it comes to a shared shower, flipflops are the way to go. The fungus that causes athlete’s foot thrives in warm and wet environments, like the shower or locker room. These infections are especially prominent in communal areas because anyone could have it.

How to avoid Meningitis: Students should prepare for college by getting a meningitis vaccination. It is also important to wash their hands frequently, wipe down countertops and other shared surfaces, avoid close contact with someone who is sick, eat healthy and get plenty of sleep.

How to avoid Colds and Flu: Hand-washing is your best bet against colds and flu. Try to steer clear of friends who are sick, and consider wearing a face mask during a campus outbreak of the flu.

How to avoid Athlete’s foot: Wear flip-flops in communal showers and hallways. Make sure to dry in between the toes to prevent fungal growth.

Mono

Students needn’t worry about a little mildew on the shower curtain, but mold infestation— in walls, for example—can be extremely hazardous to your health, particularly for those with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions.

Sharing tiny dorm rooms and walking the halls with hundreds of other students is a surefire way to spread the germs that cause bacterial meningitis, a serious and potentially fatal infection that affects the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Like the flu, bacterial meningitis can be spread through saliva (by kissing or drinking after one-another, for example).

Mononucleosis, also known as “the kissing disease,” can be a nightmare for some college students. It can put them in bed for four to six weeks! However, others might not even realize they have it. Unlike the airborne flu, mono is usually passed on through close contact like kissing or sharing drinks.

How to avoid Mono: Avoid mouth-tomouth contact and constantly wash hands.

Recovering from mono usually means weeks of bed rest, which can really put a new

Mold

How to handle Mold: Mold thrives in warm, wet conditions, so small-scale cases typically can be prevented by keeping clothes, bathrooms, and kitchen areas dry.

However, if you notice signs of a dorm-wide infestation—such as a diffuse mildewy smell,

Bedbugs These tiny, blood-sucking bugs are not unusual on campus. Bedbug infestations require professional help and are expensive to treat, but they are even harder to prevent.

While pests that thrive on uncleanliness can be avoided by sealing food containers and minimizing clutter, bedbug infestations can occur for no apparent reason.

How to avoid Bedbugs: Avoiding used furniture and carefully checking luggage after traveling may help prevent an infestation.

If you or your dormmates already have bedbugs, washing linens in hot water and using mattress covers may keep bedbugs from spreading.

RRFCU Mortgage Department Hosts Hawaiian Luau and Ice Cream Social RRFCU Mortgage Department held a Hawaiian luau and ice cream social on June 19th in the Mortgage Department on Summerhill Road. Realtors were taken to a Hawaiian oasis and received a Lei as they entered and had a feast on an Ice Cream Sundae bar. Realtors from through the Texarkana area came to hear what RRFCU Mortgage can do for the home buyers, builders, and realtors.

Susan Lansdell, Mortgage Manager greeted the guests and thanked them for coming.

She started the event off with drawing names to win a Kindle Fire. A draw down was held with 10 contestants. The last 5 contestants did not go home empty handed. They won BBQ tools, Special drink bucket, a RRFCU Canvas Chair, and a summer wall hanging.

The last contestant standing won a Kindle Fire. Charlie Magee with Coldwell Banker Realty was the lucky winner.

ALT Magazine July 2012 54

During the event, speakers gave valuable information regarding their fields. Speakers talked on various topics such as Home Inspection , Title Work, Insurance, appraisal, and lending. The staff at RRFCU would like to thank all of the realtors for coming out for this event.

Photos: 1 - RRFCU Mortgage Staff : Susan LansdellMortgage Administrator, Sara GuernseyReceptionist, Teresa Smith-Underwriter, Anya Patterson-Loan Originator, Jane Richards-Mortgage Loan Originator , Ashley Sutton-Loan Underwriter/Closer, Helen Carter-Loan Processor, Cathy CochranSecondary/Market specialist.

3 - Charlie Magee receiving his Kindle from Susan Lansdell, RRFCU Mortgage Administrator.

2 - Charlie Magee with Coldwell Banker.

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Ark-La-Tex Resource Guide Air and Heating Central Air 450 S. Kings Highway Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.1212 Krause Service Company, Inc. 200 Industrial Blvd.

Nash, TX 903.831.3912 Apartments Arista Apartments 3515 Arista Blvd.

Texarkana, TX 903.255.7869 Legacy at Pleasant Grove 5911 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 888.763.2676 Richmond Oaks Apartments 2815 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.832.6150

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Summerhill Woods Apartments 4501 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.793.7888

Banks MilWay Credit Union 5001 West 7th Street Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.2004

Westwood Apartments 101 Redwater Rd. Wake Village, TX 903.832.8446

Peoples State Bank 5600 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.838.2300

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

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

Gayle’s 4059 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0056

Texar Federal Credit Union Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.223.5626

Attorneys Allyson Perkins DeCanio, Attorney Tyler, TX 903.469.3307

Texarkana First Bank 3601 East 9th St. Texarkana, AR 870.772.0222 615 Sam Houston Dr. New Boston, TX

3625 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.793.6955

Culinary Creations Pam Elliott 903.831.4674

Wells Fargo Bank 3615 E. 9th St. Texarkana, TX 903.838.1187 1301 Arkansas Blvd.

Texarkana, AR 903.223.1545 2900 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.223.3516

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

Business Services Pride Enterprises James & Cynthia Pride Texarkana, TX 903.832.5550 Cakes Coldstone Creamery 4228 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.838.2653 Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354 Reception Arts Becky Risinger Ashdown, AR 870.898.5273 Caterers/Private Chef Big Jake’s BBQ 2610 New Boston Rd. Texarkana, TX 903-793-1169 1521 Arkansas Blvd.

Texarkana, AR 870-774-0099 603 W. Commerce Hope, AR 870-777-1000 170 N. Constitution Ave. Ashdown, AR 870-898-2227

Sugar & Spice Catering Shari Frachiseur 903.276.4389 Twisted Vines Florist and Cafe 218 W. Broad St. Texarkana, TX 903-792-2700 Wendy’s 4201 Stateline Avenue Texarkana, TX 2902 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 3737 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 1615 N. Hervey Hope, AR 124 N. Loop Highway 59 Atlanta, TX

Gayle’s 4059 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0056 OMG Lulu 3211 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.8135 116 Polk St. Jefferson, TX 903.665.8855 Dental/Endodontics Texarkana Endodontics, PA Jason Michel, DDS 1826 Galleria Oaks Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.793.7411 Dry Cleaning Holiday Cleaners Locations throughout Texarkana Area 870.773.4072 Electrical Services Mr. Electric 903.838.0161

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

Entertainment CableOne 855-692-4121

Church Highland Park Baptist Church 2401 Hazel St. Texarkana, TX 903.792.6996

Event Locations Garrison Gardens Texarkana, AR 71854 870.773.0275

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

Legendary Shooting Sports 925 Brower Lane Texarkana, TX 903.334.9605

Regional Arts Center Cabe Hall 321 W. 4th Street Texarkana, TX 75501 903.792.8681

Silvermoon on Broad West Broad at Texas Blvd.

Texarkana, TX Texarkana Convention Center Crossroads Busines Park Texarkana, AR Twin Oaks Mansion 903.244.7070

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Estate and Garage Sales Somewhere in Time 903.277.3392 903.278.2259 Financial Planner Dustin Stringer Stringer Wealth Management 1620 N. Kings Highway Nash, TX 903.223.0011 Fitness Centers Anytime Fitness Richmond Road 3415 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.794.5348 Lyfe Fitness 819 N. Kings Highway Wake Village, TX 903.832.0133 Florists Ruth’s Flowers 3501 Texas Bllvd.

Texarkana, TX 903.793.6711 www.ruthsflowers.net Twisted Vines Florist and Cafe 218 W. Broad St. Texarkana, TX 903-792-2700 58

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Unique Flowers 4801 Loop 245 Texarkana, AR 870-774.1300

Serendipity Salon of Texarkana 4308 Texas Boulevard Texarkana, TX 903.255.0554

Funeral Home Texarkana Funeral Home 4801 Loop 245 Texarkana, AR 870.774.1200 3515 Texas Blvd.

Texarkana, TX 903.794.1200

Style Studio Lisa Harris 3201 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.1719

Chapelwood Funeral Home 1015 N. Kings Highway Nash, TX 903.838.5300 Furniture Oak Creek Furniture 8024 West 7th St. Texarkana, TX 903.832.0793 Gifts Dot’s Ace Hardware 3411 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.838.0059 Hair Care A Total Change 930 N. McCoy Blvd., Suite 6 New Boston, Texas 75570 903-628-6135

Hospice Dierksen Hospice 6500 N. Summerhill Road, Suite 2B Texarkana, TX 903.793.6350 Hospitals Christus St. Michael Health System 2600 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.614.1000 Health South Rehabilitation 515 West 12th St. Texarkana, TX 903.793.0088 Wadley Regional Medical Center 1000 Pine St. Texarkana, TX 903.798.8000

Hotels Best Western Texarkana Inn & Suites 5219 Crossroads Parkway Texarkana, AR 870.774.1534 Clarion Lacross Hotel 5100 N. Stateline Ave. Texarkana, AR 870.774.3521 www.lacrosse-hotel.com Courtyard by Marriott 5001 North Cowhorn Creek Texarkana, TX 903.334.7400 Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott 4209 Mall Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.838.1000 Holiday Inn Express & Suites 4545 Cowhorn Creek Road Texarkana, TX 903.223.0008 TownePlace Suites by Marriott 5020 North Cowhorn Creek Texarkana, TX 903.334.8800

Insurance Farm Bureau Insurance 4413 Morris Lane Texarkana, TX 903.838.8707 911 W. US Highway 82 New Boston, TX 903.628.3451 Greg Cockerell State Farm Insurance 4807 Texas Blvd.

Texarkana, TX 75503 903.793.7502 Ron Morrow State Farm Insurance 3306 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 75503 903.832.5505 Invitations I Do Wedding Favors Debra Jones 903.826.9879 Jewelers Alexander’s Jewelers 3701 Mall Drive Texarkana, TX 903.832.3557 Micah’s Jewelers 2812 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 903.735.2336 Make-up Gayle’s 4059 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0056 Salon Visage Esthetique Mary Ann Robbins 4506 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.794.4007 Sanctuary Kimberly Parham, M.D. 3502 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.334.8661 Methadone Treatment Arkansas Treatment Services 408 Hazel St. Texarkana, AR 870.774.0421 Photographer Carla Snyder Photography Texarkana, USA 903.244.3553 Image Forward Photography 200 Heather Dr. Texarkana, TX 75501 903.334.9605

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Pet Grooming Georgia’s Pet Salon & Boutique 101 Slaton Nash, Texas 903.223.8223 Physicians Advanced Bariatrics 1939 Morres Lane Texarkana, TX 75503 Carmony Oral, Facial and Implant Center 5305 Cowhorn Creek Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.791.8405 Express Care 5483 Summerhill Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.223.5931 Northfield Accupunture 619 E. 6th St. Texarkana, AR 870.772.8622 Vision Source 4401 Morris Lane Texarkana, TX 903.838.9063

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Plumbing Central Air/Roto Rooter 450 S. Kings Highway Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.1212 Real Estate Crown Leasing 6500 Summerhill Road Texarkana, TX 903.792.6000 Gerald Haire Realty Kaci Bennett 3725 Mall Dr. Texarkana, TX 870.903.3049 Gerald Haire Realty Janet Willis 3725 Mall Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.748.5385 Impact Realty Bill and Tracy Spradlin 1200 N. Kings Hwy., Ste 104 Nash, TX 903.748.3186 903.748.2477 Impact Realty Cody Sandone 1200 N. Kings Hwy., Ste 104 Nash, TX 903.276.7565

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Satterfield Construction, LLC 903.832.4591 www.satterfieldservices.com Teresa Liepman Remax 5120 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 75503 903.276.9464 Refreshments Bolls Distributing 700 E. Broad St. Texarkana, AR 870.774.9283 Vincent’s Fine Wines 6900 N. Stateline Texarkana, AR 870.774.7217 Rentals Dot’s Rentals 814 N. Robison Road Texarkana, TX 75501 903.792.7011 3413 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.838.0551 Twisted Vines Florist and Cafe 218 W. Broad St. Texarkana, TX 903.792.2700

Restaurants Amigo Juan Mexican Cafe 4301 Morris Lane Texarkana, TX 903.334.6971 1200 N. Hervey Hope, AR 870.777.0006 611 Loop 59 Atlanta, TX 903.796.2400 Big Jake’s BBQ 2610 New Boston Rd. Texarkana, TX 903-793-1169 1521 Arkansas Blvd.

Texarkana, AR 870-774-0099 603 W. Commerce Hope, AR 870-777-1000 170 N. Constitution Ave. Ashdown, AR 870-898-2227 Coldstone Creamery 4228 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.838.2653 Daddy Dougaloo’s 905 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.791.0172

Dairy Queen Locations throughout Ark-LaTex Fish Creek 1514 Arkansas Blvd.

Texarkana, AR 870.223.0595 Hopkins Icehouse Downtown Texarkana, AR Corner of 3rd and Wood 870.774.3333 Ironwood Grill 4312 Morris Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.4644 Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354

Shorty’s Donuts 2729 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.6686 Tasty Donuts 1443 N. Kings Highway Nash, TX 903.838.0422 Twisted Vines Cafe 218 W. Broad St. Texarkana, TX 903.792.2700 Wendy’s 4201 Stateline Avenue Texarkana, TX 2902 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 3737 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 1615 N. Hervey Hope, AR

124 N. Loop Highway 59 Atlanta, TX Wingstop 2700 Richmond Road, Suite 14A1 Texarkana, TX 903.255.0090 4501 N. State Line, No. 106 Texarkana, TX 903.792.9464 Retirement/Assisted Living Home Edgewood Manor 4925 Elizabeth St. Texarkana, TX 903.793.4645 Heritage Plaza 600 W. 52nd St. Texarkana, TX 75501 903.792.6700

The Magnolia 4205 Richmond Meadows Texarkana, TX 75503 903.838.7319 Roofing Aqua Roofing Anthony Jewell 3523 Locust Texarkana, AR 903.244.5706 Spas/Salons All About You 4100 Summerhill Road Texarkana, TX 903.803.2050

Salon Visage Esthetique Mary Ann Robbins 4506 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.794.4007

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The Sanctuary Kimberly Parham, M.D. 3502 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.334.8661 Ultrasound Services Peanut Gallery Texarkana, AR 870.779.7688 Wedding Attire Bridal Castle 3209 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.838.3886 Wedding Coordinators Abracadabra Wedding and Event Planning Debra Mason, Event Coordinator 903.748.4838 damason@cableone.net Heather Kiser Wedding Coordinator 903.314.1582 Wedding Favors Pop Pop Shoppe 2011 Mall Drive, Suite B Texarkana, TX 903.793.0209

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Wedding Planners Abracadabra Wedding and Event Planning Debra Mason, Event Coordinator 903.748.4838 damason@cableone.net Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Locations Ironwood Grill 4312 Morris Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.4644 Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354 Silvermoon on Broad West Broad at Texas Blvd.

Texarkana, TX

Weight Loss All About You 4100 Summerhill Road Texarkana, TX 903.803.2050 Jenny Craig Texarkana, TX 903.831.5366

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“It’s a world of laughter A world of tears It’s a world of hopes And a world of fears There’s so much that we share That it’s time we’re aware It’s a small world after all.”

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...No one understands this familiar Disney song better than Gwendolyn Marie Rood Wood Morris.

By Jane Bouterse

A LADY OF VISIONS— A LIFE OF DISCOVERIES

Gwendolyn Marie Rood Wood Morris…As she identifies herself, she laughs at her name, “I say that name sounds like a tree disease.”

This brief moment quickly defines the smiling lady whose just shampooed gray hair seems to prefer exploration to order, a hint of her 72 years of living. Although born in Dallas, Gwen was reared in Texarkana and continues to live in the red brick house of her childhood. No surprise, then, that she quickly explains the house and Disney World are her favorite places. And her “MUST” first ride? “It’s a Small World After All.”

Gwen’s world of laughter and daring originated with her parents. Her father began as a self-taught draftsman at Texarkana’s Lone Star Army Ammunition Plant; eventually he moved to Red River Army Depot where he became the head structural engineer. Her mother, a bright, inquiring woman, assumed responsibility for the efficiency of the Rood Household. Since Gwen’s parents convinced her she could do whatever she chose, an unaware Gwen was forced to discover for herself the boundaries society defined for women. For the most part they have not gotten in her way.

The confidence Gwen’s parents had in their bright daughter was sorely tested when Gwen was in the third grade. Her teacher, the first male teacher she had ever seen, knew some kind of boundary limited her learning. He determined that she was severely dyslexic (long before the word was well known) and instructed Gwen’s mom to use flip cards with her until Gwen realized how the letters should go. “If he had not been convinced I could do what he told me to do, I don’t know what would have happened,” Gwen admits.

As a student at a new Westlawn Junior High (presided over by the Rood’s neighbor, Felton Moore) Gwen exercised her artistic talents. It was she who drew Westlawn’s first Bobcat mascot.

Gradually, Gwen and her father utilized her talents as they worked together at the drafting table, but she wanted to know more. The logical course of action was to enroll in drafting class at Texas Senior High School…but no girl had ever been a student in this class. Gwen applied.

“No, you can’t get in,” the Principal had told her.

“Why not?” a puzzled Gwen inquired.

“The class just filled up. We can’t get to you.”

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“Is it that there are no desks or because I’m a woman?”

“Oh no,” came his immediate reply. “If we had a desk, you could get in.”

A resolute Gwen knew the solution. She recruited her brother to lend her a hand, and with some “inside assistance,” the two of them sneaked the drafting table from her bedroom into the drafting classroom. “Imagine that,” her laughter punctuates the memory, “sneaking a drafting table into a classroom!”

The next day, Gwen entered the Principal’s Office, “Remember our conversation about the desk in the drafting class?

Come see.” Reluctantly, the Principal walked with Gwen to the drafting classroom only, as he said, “because I like you and your hallway bulletin boards.” He broke into audible laughter when he saw the drafting table. “Anyone who wants to get in that bad, we have to let in.”

Gwen, the first female to take drafting at Texas High, remained a student in the drafting class for the requisite two years then returned her table to her bedroom.

“I guess I was a women’s libber before there were women’s libbers.” The drafting class was the beginning not only of Gwen’s going where no woman had gone before but also of a career she enjoyed and at which she excelled. Nonetheless, she decided to attend North Texas State Teachers’ College in Denton to earn a teaching certificate in art. Education courses were just not for her, so she returned to Texarkana and enrolled—the only woman-- in the drafting class at Texarkana College.

That was a unique demographic experience, as well.

However, Gwen had now found her niche. She headed off to the India Ink of Southwestern Bell Telephone Company in Dallas where her talents were essential in engineering, poster making and visual arts for court cases. Much of the drafting work was “teeny-tiny” so the India Ink necessary to clarify the drawings had to be applied with her fingertips. “I always had ink under my fingernails,” Gwen recalls. Her eyes began to suffer from the “teeny-tiny,” too, so she returned to Texarkana to freelance with her dad as well as work briefly at Lone Star Army Ammunition Plant. Little did she realize how important all of this preparation was to her future.

Gwen’s future was not limited to the drafting table, however.

An unexpected letter altered all her plans. Larry Wood, just out of the US Air Force and her boyfriend since the two were three years old, wrote: “If you are not married, I still love you and want to marry you.” The civilian Larry was employed at Cape Canaveral, Florida’s, Kennedy Space Center. After several Florida visits, Gwen and Larry called her mama and told her they had eloped. On September 3, 1966, the two 26 year olds found a Baptist preacher in Georgia and became Mr. and Mrs. “I was actually a cradle robber,” Gwen smiles. “He was one month younger than me.”

The two set up housekeeping in Cocoa Beach, Florida—a location that would introduce them to new worlds. Larry worked on the Lunar Orbiter. According to NASA, the five Lunar Orbiter missions launched between 1966 and 1967 were all successful and photographed 99% of the Moon in preparation for the Apollo landings.

Gwen, meanwhile, went to work for the Boeing Company as an engineering technician. Her primary drafting included the mechanical and pneumatics layouts on the Saturn 5 rocket—America’s Moon Rocket. [ Apparently, she and her colleagues did an excellent job.

During NASA’s space flight program, a total of 32 Saturns were launched. Not one failed.] Many of those lift offs, Gwen proudly watched.

Gwen’s team included one other female, but the entire crew could have easily disappeared in the Vehicle Assembly Building, 68

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where they occasionally worked. The VAB is one of the world’s largest buildings, originally built for assembly of Apollo/Saturn vehicles. She also had clearances to go onto the launch pad, but she had to be certified in how to get off the pad fast in case of an explosion. Concrete holes on every level provided the first exit stage. The holes contained tubing which rolled out in front of the escapee until it reached the ground—then it was time to run. “I never had to do that for real,” she sighs.

Gwen quickly learned to think of the earth as “very small after all” compared to the vastness of space.

In 1968, however, Gwen walked away from NASA to become a mom. She had to give up the 2-packs-a-day (wanting 3) cigarette habit the doctor had prescribed for her nervous appetite.

“OK, I’ll try,” she had reacted to her doctor’s prescription, “but if I ever get pregnant, I will not be a smoking mother.” Pregnant? She did give up her habit. In 1968, Gwen’s son, Andrew (Andy) Franklin Wood was born.

Andy’s healthy arrival was welcomed—a time of laughter and high hopes but followed by fears.

Larry was laid off and refused to take any job paying less than his previous job. Gwen was offered a job by Federal Electric doing as-built drawings (which depict the actual as-built conditions of the completed construction). For the next several years, the Wood Family lived in

various places--Mississippi as well as Florida-- and had several jobs.

In 1970, daughter Sandra (Sandie) Marie joined the family.

The Wood family moved to Huntsville, AL, but on October 1, 1971, returned to Titusville, FL, to visit family and attend the Grand Opening of the new entertainment park, slightly over 60 miles away. Gwen, Larry, an almost-one year old Sandie and four year old Andy were a part of the opening day crowd at Disney World.

A sleeping Sandie was roused from her stroller by a six foot tall Goofy and let out a scream which scared Goofy away completely, while four year old Andy was “in Hog Heaven enjoying everything.” Gwen probably had the most fun of all. From that Opening Day until now, Gwen still thrills at the prospect of riding the “It’s a Small World After All”—“her first ride MUST.” In fact, Gwen has made six trips to Disney World. “The last trip I made was last fall, took my sisters, who had never been, and had a blast. Doctors had given me six months to live, and I wanted to see it one more time. We were there a full week and still didn’t see everything, but it was wonderful. Oh, by the way my six months are up, and I’m still having fun….”

Being involved with the space program was an “out of the world experience,” according to Gwen who was always impressed

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by NASA. “They were ahead of everyone’s game,” she says. “People never stopped to think of the products created by NASA,” Gwen remembers, “computers and cell phones; corning ware which would not work for nose cones but was perfect for kitchens; Velcro-astronauts needed an easy in and out of space suits; flat screen TVs for compactness and light weight.”

One can add to Gwen’s list items like invisible braces, scratch resistant lenses, memory foam and ear thermometers, cordless tools and shoe insoles. Personal items like Astroglide, perfume based on how roses smell in low gravity, nutritional supplements, nano-materials like the polymers and ceramics used in hair styling (the CHI), even golf balls that fly straighter. In fact, NASA’s contributions are so substantial, the agency publishes an annual report called SPINOFFS just listing the practical contributions of NASA research.

After eight years, the Wood’s marriage had ceased working, so Gwen, with the help of her visiting mother, bundled up Andy and Sandie and returned to Texarkana via. stops in Opry Land and a few National Parks. Never deterred by what the next day would bring, Gwen worked—drafting—at Texarkana’s water company and Red River. Always in the minority, she endured the smoky drafting rooms and the colorful language and jokes but refrained from participating.

She laughed when she felt like it, stood her ground when necessary, and produced exemplary work. “I was in a man’s field, and they never let me forget it.” When she was hired at Red River as an engineering technician, she did structural, pneumatic, electrical and mechanical drawings and climbed around on everything checking things out. “I loved every bit of it,” she explained.

Her talents were not limited to climbing and drawing. When Andy started first grade at Beverly School, Gwen offered to help the teacher and asked if Sandie could join them during class. The teacher agreed. For three years Gwen worked as a volunteer assistant to kindergarten and first grade teachers. Yet another boundary had been crossed, as she proved the value of teacher assistants. The first year after her departure, TISD decided to pay the classroom helpers.

Gwen’s participation in PTA was equally valuable. At one point, she served as President of the Beverly and Oaklawn organizations as well as Fifteenth Street—all three, all at once.

Yet her life was to change drastically—one more time. While working at Red River Gwen met Joseph Lee Morris (Joe) from Joplin, MO—a veteran of 21 years in the US Army. This was the perfect match. Joe and Gwen were married for 32 and 1/2 years.

When Gwen was rifted (laid off) at Red River, a prospective employer told her, “I can’t have you climbing around on buildings.” She responded, “Why not? I just did it.” Out of a job, she returned to Texarkana College to study retail marketing, then opened her own wedding consulting firm boosted by the loyal support of her friend for 64 years, Donna Pasley Huffman. “I might not have made a lot of money, but I made a lot of happy people.” Gwen’s Notions, the name of all her businesses, was designed to please its customers. “What are you doing?” Donna would ask.

“Whatever I have a notion to do.”

On a trip to Virginia to visit her daughter, Gwen discovered a sugar free candy, perfect for diabetics. She took a notion to sell the candy and was soon loading her big Dodge van to distribute the tasty treat in seven states. When Gwen’s health prohibited her from making the trip, she convinced Joe he could take over. “I just told him all he had to do was fill the racks that were already there. He said he couldn’t sell, but he got the whole Brookshire’s chain as our customer while he worked.”

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Gwen returned to her Broad Street location and sold Precious

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Moments dolls, the sugar free candy and toys. By now, she had suffered a few strokes and depended on a cane for confidence. She started collecting canes. “You only need one cane,” Joe would tell her, but “women need to accessorize,” was her reply. Eventually, the strokes reduced her ability to do math, so she turned to NASA’s contributions. Using math games and exercises on the computer, Gwen has restored her addition and subtraction, is working on multiplication and division and playing brain games.

Bolden noted that “The future is incredibly bright for us [NASA]. We just have to stick with it and be resilient and don’t give up.”

This Lady is not deterred by boundaries rather challenged by them. “I’ve done a little bit of everything.” She played softball until she was 45; enjoyed golf, bowling, tennis even racquetball into the 50s, paid for her NT art supplies by taking care of the school’s horses.

It IS a small world…After All

“I’ve had a fun life,” she admits.

She has twice been told she had only six months to live, so she recently refurbished the house for Joe who died February 25, 2012. “I’m still dying,” she says, “but I’m not going lying down.

Sandie, my three grandchildren and I have season passes to Six Flags!”

NASA’s 12th Administrator Charles Bolden, a retired Major General in the United States Marine Corps and former NASA astronaut spoke at the International Space Development Conference in Washington on Friday, May 25, 2012. In his remarks

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Gwen Marie Rood Wood Morris is the personification of NASA Administrator Bolden’s conclusion. Gwen’s life is guided by her faith; therefore, she lives every day determined, resilient, unwilling to give up—NASA traits she proudly practices. Her life continues to be lived… Beyond the Boundaries.

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Annual KLFI Golf Tournament

1. Mary Cooper and Gail Young 2. Trophies 3. Don Gauntt, Jeff East, Larry East and Dwight Chism 4. Ryan Olson, Scott Swenson, Lance Steed, Cameron Hobson 5. Allen Brown, Robby Selph, Drew Selph and Don Abbott 6. Dennis Fuls, Eddie Mitchell, Chris Konetzni and Tony Hadaway 7. Derek Hammonds, John Sands, Joe Lichtenwalter and Gene Lichtenwalter 8. From left to right: Richard Posey, Venessa Robertson, Gail Young, Dick Young, George Dickson and Dean Cooper 9. Salli Brown, Catherine Maness, Barbara McWilliams and MaryBess, Cunningham 10. Trish Reed

EVENT

WHERE Texarkana Golf Ranch WHEN

6/19/12

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50th Anniversary Golf Tournament

1. Ryan Walton and Brad Saris

WHERE Northridge Country Club

4. Richard Raney and Ray Scott

EVENT

WHEN

2. Bobby Ables and John Stephens 3. Houey Clement and Allen Clement

5. Ryan Wharton and Nick Latoof

6/16/12

6. Ryan Olson and Greg Royal 7. Michael Lybrand and Mark Mobley 8. Mike Liles and Errol Friedman 9. Patty and Steve Collier

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10. Julie and Joe Parker 11. Casey Boyette and Steve Weed 12. Justin Pendley, Darla Clement and Tony

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by Vincent Senatore

A Great Wine Lesson...

M

any years ago, while working for a major importer of Bordeaux wines, I was lucky enough to be part of a charity tasting that included a 6 liter bottle of 1784 Chateau Lafite Rothschild from the private collection of Thomas Jefferson. I can remember being so excited that I was like a little kid on Christmas Eve. I can even remember preparing my palate to receive this great honor. I was very careful not to eat anything too hot or spicy.

In an effort to prepare my senses, I tasted about 20 wines prior to the big night. Obviously, I couldn’t afford Premier Cru Bordeaux wine. So, with a little help from my friends, (lots of friends when it comes to free wine,) I practiced on $10 to $15 Petite Chateau wines.

When the big night arrived, I was well prepared to ingest one of the world’s greatest wines from a collection that belonged to a man who not only signed the Declaration of Independence, but was also the 3rd President of the United States. Needless to say I was “Geeked.”

The dinner, the “pomp and circumstance,” the wines were just

magnificent. What could be better than this? The 1784 Lafite!

When the big moment came, every guest would get about 2-3 ounces of this magnificent nectar. Since I was one of the workers and didn’t have to shell out some major “buckos” to be part of this gala event, I only got about 1 ½ ounces. Still, who cares? I was so honored to just be in the presence of the bottle. I must have burned out my eyes from the fixed gaze that I locked onto that bottle. I can still see that striking 6 liter bottle with its very plain, odd shaped bottle. It just said the word “Lafitte” with the vintage written above it. Under the winery name was the marking “Th. J.” I remember thinking about how easy it would have been to counterfeit this bottle.

However, the wine would be the true validation. Remember this wine was almost 200 years old at this event and it had been kept in Thomas Jefferson’s Cellar in Monticello.

The moment arrived, everyone had received their ounces of history and it was time to taste the true “Nectar of the Gods.” I remember studying the color that had been faded to a very light, with an amber tint on the edges, almost rose in color. This was nothing like the newer vintages that would resemble ink until they had some time in their bottles. To enhance the bouquet, I gave the wine a slight swirl to coat the inside of my glass. I can only remember the burnt raisin smell and the lack of fruit. Its 200 years old, why would I be looking for a fresh fruit nose?

Before actually tasting the wine I looked around to see how the true experts were handling the experience. (Remember, I was still in my 20’s and very “green”). Everyone was raving over the beautiful color that still remained and how the bouquet was exquisite. Basically, everyone was fawning over the greatness of this wine.

Then, it was my turn. The wine hit my palate at full speed ahead.

I was doing everything in my power to love this glorious piece of history. Why wasn’t I in tears of elation? Why wasn’t I screaming praises of joy? Was my palate letting me down? Maybe, I’m not very good at this. Something is very wrong. To me this wine was not what I expected.

My disappointment lingers to this day. However, I learned some very valuable lessons. First, the wine that I consumed prior to the big night was really great, for the money. What fantastic values. In fact, I sell one of those wines in our store. Its a few bucks more today, but, not much. Next, the Lafitte had a more esoteric value than a wine value. One cannot put a price on the history of that bottle. With all of this said, the best lesson is: wine doesn’t have to be expensive to be good. And, one’s palate is going to change and evolve over the years.

After spending 36 years in the industry, I appreciate the $40- $50 bottles of wine. But, it’s the $10 super values that I enjoy the most… especially with food! So, every 4th of July, I am reminded of TJ’s wine and I thank God that I live in such a great country.

Happy 4th of July! God Bless America!

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Making life better... with concrete countertops...

Gooding Decorative Concrete is excited to be rolling out a new line of Decorative Concrete Countertops after completing intensive training from one of the leading designers and manufaturers of concrete countertops and furniture in the industry, Buddy Rhodes.

Located in San Fransisco California, Buddy Rhodes has been creating custom countertops and concrete furniture for over 20 years. He has taken his vast knowledge of Concrete Countertops and the materials to create them and passed them on to us!

We decided that if we were going to make Concrete Countertops part of our business portfolio, we were not going to just make the same old countertops everyone else makes. After researching the industry we found that most Concrete Countertop mixes were pretty much the same, you pick a color from about 8 and then had 3 choices of edge design and 1 choice of intregal/surface design.

What we have done is expanded the color options to just about anything, added more edge designs,

and offer 4 intregal/surface options.

Surface Options: Troweled: (one solid color) This is by far the most popular countertop look. The surface will have a solid color with no aggregates visible.

Lightly Grinded: With this finish you will be able to see small aggregates(sandsmall quartz) in the countertop.

Grinded/Ground: Similar to the first this finish makes visible more aggregates (sand-quartz-limestone-pea gravel).

With this finish we can add various items to enhance the visual appeal.

Crushed Glass, polished stone, even a college logo just to name a few.

Marshall Gooding, Owner

Pressed: (two colors) The pressed technique is a process created

by Buddy Rhodes in which two contrasting colors are used to create a look that is quite unique in todays Concrete Countertop Market.

With Concrete Countertops, each project is a one of a kind, handcrafted work of art. We work closely with each client to choose a color and design that is both fitting to its surroundings as well as practical for everyday use.

David Melson

For a free estimate, give us a call.

We’d love to talk with you!

Other companies may talk about experience -- our quality and experience shows in our work!

We will be happy to travel throughout the Ark-La-Tex! Call us today!

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by Christine Amos

Dog behavior...

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witnessed a man out walking his out of control dog the other day. While he was walking he passed a gardener.

The dog growled at him and then made a mess on someone’s lawn. Several things were wrong with this picture.

The dog didn’t behave properly on a leash. He growled and barked at a man while he was gardening. Then he pottied on someone else’s lawn and that was left there for someone to step in. Fail…..

With all the talk of our new dog park and recent behaviors of dogs and their owners in public, I thought certain information might be useful. It is a pet owner’s responsibility to be aware of current laws and ordinances regarding their pets. You can find the extended list online under a search for “Texarkana

City Ordinances Arkansas and Texas.” If you are not aware of the laws and are found violating them, ignorance will not get you out of a fine or penalty.

There is a leash law both in Texarkana, Texas, and Texarkana, Arkansas. This means you must have your pet on a leash when out in public. For the safety and well being of your dog, this should be practiced. By using a leash you are able to keep them under control at all times. Use a lead near people but particularly around children, elderly people, other dogs and animals - especially, if they are not properly socialised.

There is also an ordinance to clean up after your dog, i.e., if your dog poops on any property other than your own, it is your legal obligation to clean that up and dispose of it properly. This is particularly important to do if your dog carries any kind of worms. You don’t want to spread those to other animal by leaving your pet’s waste. Wal-mart bags work really well in a pinch to pick up and dispose of feces.

Aggressive behavior, growling, barking, lunging at another dog or human is totally unacceptable behavior. It must be corrected. If you are not successful in training your dog, you may want to contact a professional trainer to help with this.

It is also required that you have your pet registered with the city. You will pay a fee to register it and will receive a tag.

Be in the know of your local, and state laws and ordinances for your pet. It is your obligation to your pet to keep it and others safe.

Remember when taking your dog out a well mannered dog is a welcomed and happy dog!

Christine Amos has over 30 years experience grooming pets. She is a Certified Groomer, Master Groomer, AKC Canine Good Citizenship Evaluator, and Obedience Trainer.

She is also Mom to Georgia (pictured), MoMo, Annabelle and Allie Sue!

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EVENT

Relay for Life

1. Team Swepco 2. Alan and Margie Campbell 3. Barbara Sams Walker and Michelle Miller

WHERE Four States Fair Grounds

4. Team Target 5. Commitee Member Lisa Norris and Event

WHEN

6/9/12

Chair Lisa Barr 6. Rene Westmoreland, Casey Schmidt, Teresa Powell and Nathan Westmoreland, Vicki Westmoreland, Willau Sanders and Kevin Westmoreland.

7. Scott Dubois and Theresa Clinton

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8. Gaylyn Spanhanks, Avis Whittington and Shar Henry 9. Betty Nix and Naona Krayl 10. Mackenzie and David Martin

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11. Lyndsey McKinnon and James Cockrum 12. Barbara Walker and Tori Sams 13. Austin Odum and Blair Simmons 14. Lisa Norris and Arwen McDaniel 15. Tim Pasley, Barbara Walker, Lisa Barr, Chris

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Reed and Christan Barnett 16. Jessi Chapman and Jaddie Reich 17. Memory Candle Bags

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Kylee’s 2nd Annual Paws for a Cause EVENT

WHERE

Spring Lake Park

WHEN

6/9/12

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1. Macy Sloan and Marvin 2. John Page holding Sherman, Jason Michel and Elvis 3. Misc. Photos of 5K race 4. Gay, Rivers and Swan B. Moss 5. Christine and Joe Amos with Georgia and MoMo 6. Josh Lee 7. James Scogin, Lindola Griffin and Jon Cool 8. Candice Lesher, Angie Bowen, Alicia Willis, Elizabeth Hornbeck, Amanda Willis and Erica Andrade 9. Lori Davidson and Justin Woodson with Georgia 10. Sarah Kyles and Robyn Barnes 11. - 13. Misc. Photos of 5K racers 14. Chrystal Sloan and Star 15. Misc. Photos of 5K racers 16. Jason Michel and Elvis cross the finish line

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

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

What motivates you to do your best?

What famous person has been an inspiration to you?

If they are submitting a professional photo, we will need a release from the photographer to use it.

Note: They do not have to be high school seniors! They must be in the 9th through 12th grades.

Haley Andrea Herrin Parent: Frankie Boswell School: Christian Academy / Sophomore Achievements: I am a fourteen year old honor home school student through Christian Academy and have been since kindergarten. Making good grades has always been important to me. I was chosen to be a mentor over the 20112012 school year, which was very rewarding for me. Excitedly looking forward to the 20122013 school year, serving for a second time as a mentor. I enjoy studying and learning new things.

I have been in music since a month before my 3rd birthday. I play piano and sing, but singing is my passion. My music teachers, the late John Montgomery and his wife, Bonnie Montgomery, broadcast my singing on his gospel radio station, even though I was a little tot. Thanks to them,

I have performed at many special events. I have been very blessed over the years to have music teachers like the Montgomery’s and Robin Curtis, that believed in me at a young age.

What motivates you to do your best?

My mom and grandmother, whom I call Nanny. Mom is always there whatever the situation may be. Her unfailing love, guidance and support is my strength. My Nanny is one terrific lady! I love going to her house, where she is always baking homemade goodies and I get to lick the bowl!

We are very close. As long as I can remember she has taught me about Jesus.

What famous person has been an inspiration to you?

Mrs. Lavonna - she has taught me for the past ten years (my school teacher.) Brilliant! My music teachers, past and present, are all remarkable people, who gave and give to me so much.

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A. Vulcan Portable Grill with Trolley. This little baby has it all. Perfect for ballgames! Found at: www.picnicfun.com B. Because real fans show team spirit at home AND on the go! These teams and more Found at: www.picnicfun.com C. Washable Napkin Ties. Sweet summer tie that doubles as a perfect picnic napkin!

Found at: www.uncommongoods.com D. Mega Picnic Mat. Stay On “Dry Ground” In Any Weather! These patterns and more Found at: www.picnicfun.com E. Sightseer Red Coffee & Tea Pack for 2. Ideal for a morning picnic or camping trip!

Found at: www.picnicfun.com F. Leaf Shade Pop Up Sun Shade. What more adorable way to shade your picnic than this?

Found at: www.picnicfun.com G. Bamboo Wine Table. Take wine to your favorite locales without having to worry about spills with this genius bamboo wine table.

Found at: www.uncommongoods.com

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H. Vineyard Willow Dark Wine Cooler. This cooler is as durable as it is attractive. Found at: www.picnicfun.com

July is National

Picnic Month!

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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.)

We’ve got a full house! Please come visit us!

You might find the addition your family has been looking for!

Do you have an animal that needs a new home?

Please don’t neglect it! Call us and let us help you find a foster home. We will list your animal on our Facebook page at no charge. Let us help!

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

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

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1. Shay and Shane are 8 week old kittens that were found in Fouke starved, dehydratedand mauled by dogs. They are now recovered and happy and healthy, litter box trained and up to date on shots. For more info call Crickett at (903) 832-2321.

2. sam is a handsome boxer mix. He is a little over a year, weighing around 55 pounds. He is neutered, fully vetted, housetrained and on heart and flea/tick prevention. Sam can be a little shy at first but will warm up to you. For more info on him call Amber at (870) 653-6983.

3. Holly is an 8 month old boxer mix that is spayed, chipped and current on shots. She is also on heartworm/flea prevention. This pretty girl is a little shy at first but she warms up quickly. She loves to play with other dogs, loves kids and is housetrained. For more

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info call Susan at (903) 244-4524.

4. Terra is a Papillon mix, weighing a whopping 8 pounds. She has been spayed, current on shots, microchipped and is on heartworm and flea/tick prevention. She loves people and other dogs. This little girl would be a great addition to any family. For more info call her foster mom, Diana, at (903) 838-4965.

5. Lacy isa spunky 5 year old Terrier mix, weighing 9 pounds. She loves car rides and looking out the window.

She is fully vetted, spayed, chipped, housetrained and on hw and flea prevention. Lacy loves every one and loves to play ball and chase. Contact Diana at (903) 838-4965 for information on her.

6. Mina is a beautiful 2 year old, 126 lbs blue Great Dane. She is a spayed female, heartworm negative, current on all vacs, is on heartworm and flea prev and

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is micro chipped. Mina gets along well with other dogs and loves children but no cats please. She is an inside dog and is totally housetrained. She will have to go to a home that is willing to let her live inside but will still require a fenced yard. For more info call Diana at (903) 838-4965.

7. Casper is a white Schnauzer weighing 17 lbs. He is neutered, current on shots, microchipped, and on heartworm and flea/tick prevention. He walks very well on a leash and knows the sit command. It will take some time to get Casper adjusted to being inside. He is very eager to come inside and we are working very hard on his house manners. For more info call Diana at (903) 838-4965.

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1. Foster is about 2 years old and weighs about 4 lbs. His owner gave him up and he’s ready for someone to give him the love he deserves!

2. Cameron is a Pomeranian. He’s about 2 years old and weighs about 10 lbs. He’s ready for a loving home.

3. Andy is about 2 years old and weighs about 10 lbs. He was an owner surrender and just wants to go home.

4. Buzz is a Terrier mix. He’s about 2 years old and weighs about 5 lbs. He’s just looking for love!

5. Brentley is a Beagle. He’s about 3 months old. He loves being loved on and getting attention.

The mission of the Animal Care & Adoption Center of Texarkana, Arkansas is to be a technologically advanced, self sustaining, human and animal friendly facility that specializes in personal customer service from a team of knowledgeable, caring individuals who endeavor to achieve rapid placement of all adoptable animals.

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

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

The Animal Care & Adoption Center of Texarkana, Arkansas is located at 203 Harrison, Texarkana, AR, 71854. For more information, call Connie Slater at 870.773.6388, or visit www. animalcareadoptioncenter.org.

We’re also on Facebook!

We’re open Monday-Saturday from 10:00 - 5:00.

Please note, all dogs adopted from this shelter MUST be spayed or neutered. Spays cost $89-$104, neuters are $76-$92 depending on the weight of the dog.

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6. Bud is about 2 years old. He is a Blue Heeler and love a lot of attention and affection.

7. Caitlin is a Boxer mix, about 4 years old and he weighs about 20 lbs. She’s was surrendered by her owner and needs a loving home.

8. Max is a Labrador/Catahoula Leopard mix. He’s about 2 years old and weighs about 20 lbs. His owner gave him up and he’s ready for his forever home.

9. Bear is a Shepard mix, about 3 years old and weighs about 25 lbs. She was an owner give up and needs love.

10. Diamond is a Pit Bull mix. She’s about 3 years old and is ready for a family to love.

11. Charlie is a Labrador mix, about 3 years old and weighs about 20 lbs. He was an owner give up and is already nuetered. He’s ready to go home!

Who else can help?

Artex Animal Welfare, Inc. (mostly horses) 903.824.1990

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

Want to help but can’t adopt?

We are always in need of dry food for puppies, dogs, cats and kittens, scoopable cat litter and litter boxes, XS/S/M dog collars, 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.

Thanks to the Payne family for adopting little Pearl into their lives. Just a few short weeks ago, Pearl, her mother and sisters were dumped off on the highway and now she has her happy ending.

(Courtesy of the Texarkana Humane Society)

Happy Tails!

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July Calendar

of Events

July 1-31

Story Hour at the Texarkana Public Library. Wednesdays and Fridays, 10:00 a.m., through August 17th. No Story Hour will be held on July 27. No registration required. For more information, (903) 794-2149.

July 2, 9, 16, 23

Knitting For Kids at the Texarkana Public Library.

Registration required. Ages: 10-16. Students must furnish their own knitting supplies. Supply list available at circulation desk. Please bring supplies to first class! For more information, (903) 794-2149.

July 4 Inde pendence Da y!

July 9

Special Program For Teens at the Texarkana Public Library. registration required! Available for Ages 1318. For Students from Texas and Arkansas that are interested in learning how to start their own business.

Connect Arkansas will show students how to go from business idea to website. This is a 4 hour hands-on workshop. Lunch will be served, detailed flier at the Texarkana Public Library. For more information, (903) 794-2149.

July 10

Take the Wheel: Get the Best Deal. Summer Financial EDU Series for Adults hosted by Texar. Meeting at 6:00 p.m. at Ironwoodgrill. Drinks and appetizers on us!

RSVP not required, but requested to secure a seat, food and drink! For more information, jenniferdl@ texarfcu.org

July 10 & 17

Latch Hook For Kids at the Texarkana Public Library. Registration required! Ages 10-16. Student will receive a latch hook project kit. Class will be limited to 24 students! For more information, (903) 794-2149.

July 11, 18, 25

Movies For Kids at the Texarkana Public Library.

Children under the age of 6 must be accompanied by an adult. Admission is FREE. No food or drink allowed in meeting room. Movie title will be posted the previous week in the library. No registration required! For more information, (903) 794-2149.

July 14 & 28

The Texarkana, Texas Farmers’ Market located at 305 Texas Blvd in historic downtown Texarkana will be open for the 2012 farmers’ market season through the summer on Saturdays from 7:00am until noon or sold out. Booth space is still available and the first month is free. Now accepting debit and SNAP cards! Featured items include fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs, plus crafts, baked goods, eggs, meats, home-canned items, tomatoes (of course!) and so much more.

July 14 - 3rd ANNUAL BEST SALSA IN THE ARK-LATEX CONTEST: Come enjoy salsa from local farmers.

From Mild to Heatin’ up the Kitchen! Cast your vote for the winner and, don’t forget to take some home!

July 28 - Watermelon Contest -- Best tasting watermelons on earth! Come try your luck in the seed spitting contest!

July 14

Weight Watchers will hold an Open House from 1:004:00. Fashion Show, success stories, phone apps, door prizes, etc. For more information, (903) 791-6449.

July 17

Home Loans: Steps Towards Home Ownership. Summer Financial EDU Series for Adults hosted by Texar. Meeting at 6:00 p.m. at Ironwoodgrill. Drinks and appetizers on us! RSVP not required, but requested to secure a seat, food and drink! For more information jenniferdl@ texarfcu.org

July 20

Four States Cruise Nights from 6:00pm - 9:00pm. Cruise Nights are free and open to the public. All vehicles are welcome. There will be door prizes, a 50/50 Pot, raffles, music, and concessions. For more information visit www.FourStatesAutoMuseum.com or call (870) 772-2886.

July 23-27

Boy Scouts of America Day Camp at Camp Preston Hunt. (Caddo Area Council) For more information, (903) 793-2179.

July 24

Yo Money, Mo Money: Ways to Save. Summer Financial EDU Series for Adults hosted by Texar. Meeting at 6:00 p.m. at Ironwoodgrill. Drinks and appetizers on us!

RSVP not required, but requested to secure a seat, food and drink! For more information, jenniferdl@texarfcu.org

July 27

Gospel at the Opry. Held at Oaklawn Opry, hosted by the Hendrix Trio. The last friday night of every month.

For more information, (903) 792-3011.

July 28

17th annual Wild About Wellness Children’s Health Fair at the Four States Fair Grounds. Free healthscreenings free admission free activities free entertainment. For more information, (903) 244-4282.

Bill Spradlin Realtor 903-748-3186

Tracy Spradlin Broker 903-748-2477

Jan Williams Realtor 903-277-5771

Karyn Baucum Cody Sandone Justin Sandone Peggy Richardson Jessica Snow Stephanie Maddox Office Manager Realtor Realtor Realtor Realtor Realtor 903-278-3836 903-276-7565 903-701-6721 903-319-4165 903-293-9183 903-223-0710

Buying? Selling? We Can Help!

Residential . Land . Timber . Commercial . Recreational Property Click in 24/7 for all your real estate needs!

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

Custom built 3 BR 2.5 BA with office and formal ceramic tile floors throughout, split master suite with jetted tub, high ceilings large kitchen with lots of cabinets and pantry, large privacy fenced backyard with storage building.

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Country Home completely remodeled with wood and ceramic tile floors, gorgeous granite countertops in kitchen and both bathrooms, new light fixtures throughout, jetted tub with separate ceramic tile shower in master bath, beautiful covered patio with cedar posts. Additional 559 SF guest house. A must see!

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3BR/2.5BA/2GA. Newly remodeled Wake Village home with wood and ceramic tile floors, granite countertops, large family room with fireplace and wet bar, formal dining, breakfast area, jetted tub with tile shower in master bedroom.

Delightful 3 BR 2 BA home with split floor plan features granite countertops, open floor, split master bedroom arrangement. Gas log fireplace in family room, high ceilings, beautiful landscaping with sprinkler system, two car garage.

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Unique Country Home with Rustic charm on 15 acres. 2 BR, 2 ba, 2000 sq ft. living area plus 40 X 50 shop. Indoor and outdoor fireplaces, granite countertops, and cedar log finished interior.

2300 SF Home on 10 acres in Genoa. Wheelchair accessible, sprinkler system. The barn is 30x40 foot, 3 sided with concrete floors and office. A 40 x 30 storage shed, 300n ft deep well and sprinkler system.

New Construction, open floor plan, fireplace in family room, high ceilings throughout, granite countertops, ceramic tile and carpet flooring, large walk in closet in master, split master bedroom arrangement, dining area, covered patio with privacy fenced back yard, two car garage, near shopping, and restaurants.

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

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903.223.0710 903.628.3186

Want a New Home in the New Year?

Call today to find out how much you can afford.

Jason Cree

Branch Manager NMLS #209270 | AR #17523

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

903-223-5632 office 903-277-2726 mobile jcree@SWBC.com

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

Visit my website to apply online www.jasoncree.com Providing exceptional service to Texarkana and surrounding area borrowers for more than 15 years.

Once you find your home, ask SWBC to provide you with a homeowners insurance quote, too.

Ask for your complimentary home buying booklet today.

PuRChASE

•

CONVENTIONAL

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FhA

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VA

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JuMBO

3101 Kennedy Lane, Ste. 200 Texarkana, TX 75503 •

REFINANCE

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RuRAL DEVELOPMENT

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INVESTMENT PROPERTy

© 2012. SWBC. All rights reserved. Loans are subject to credit approval. Certain conditions and lending guidelines apply.

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