ALT November 2012 by ALT Magazine

ALWAYS ON CALL

November 2012 . Vol. 6, Issue 11

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November 2012 /contents

39 F E AT U R E S

EVENTS

Always on Call

Leaving the Safe Harbor

Beauty and Wellness Grand Opening

Pink Out Event at First Bank

Women for the Arts

Green Egg Fest

Jeans and Bling

United Way Kick-Off

Ta s t e o f Te x a r k a n a

Christus Duck Paddle

102

Wadley Ribbon Cutting

EVERY MONTH 6

Editor ’s Letter

100

Financial Focus

F i s h Ta l e s

F u r r y Ta l e s

111

Real Estate

Resource Guide

108

Second Chances

104 True Beauty Fall Fashion Show

True Light

106

Pink Ladies Fashion Show

33 Uncorked

Safe Harbor...

Mary Ellen Young explores, dreams and discovers new things continually, keeping disappointments at a minimum.

O c t o b e r 2 0 1 2 / Vo l . 6 , I s s u e 1 0

Publisher and Editor / Debbie Brower Associate Editors / Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson Photography / Image Forward Photography, Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson, Rozana Page Sales & Marketing Manager / Charlie McMurphy Graphic Artist / Rozana Page Feature Writers / Jane Bouterse, Anne Fruge

C U LT U R E 35

Bride’s Edition

11 0 Calendar of Events

Contributing Writers / Christine Amos, Mike Brower, Vincent Senatore, Dustin Stringer Advisor / Mike Brower If you have an event you would like to include in our Upcoming Events section, please email us at: info@alt-mag.com.

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

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

Always on Call

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.

Gus proudly sports his badge on his collar. Check out these Officers!

k / FEATURE STORY

ALT Magazine

November 2012

EDITOR’S letter

Lions and Tigers and... Pink Poodles! Oh my! Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish. ~John Quincy Adams

I typically try to write my editorial in a way that has

photo made! We happily oblige! They just can’t believe she is

something to do with the articles that appear in any given

real! They thought we “made” her that color in our computer!

month. This month, however, I will ask your forgiveness to talk

The look on their faces is priceless! (Makes you wonder if they

a llttle bit about my life for the past 7 months.

think someone slipped them a drug in their drink! HAHA!)

As many of you know, I own several businesses -- not

Georgia, the namesake for our new pet salon and

just ALT Magazine. With that in mind, I decided this year to

boutique, will be on hand to greet you when you come by to

get some of those businesses out of my house, where they

visit. And the new boutique will be something else you will

have been located for many years. So, at the end of last year, I

want to visit! From the floors and bathtub, done by no other

started making plans to build a metal building. The land choice than Gooding Decorative Concrete, to the beauty of the entire was easy -- Nash Business Park was close to home and had a

interior, your pet will be pampered in style -- at a price you will

great location available right on Highway 82! It was God-sent!

love!

Any of you who have built anything know that building

With a variety of businesses, as you can tell, housed

something from scratch is not an easy process. I didn’t have a

in one building, we will be busy! Gooding Decorative Concrete

clue at the time what I was getting into! However, I will tell you

will be happy to help you with a fabulous floor for your home

that I have learned many things the hard way -- and this is one! or office. Legendary Shooting Sports has lots of things we are

After several months of being up to my neck in lions

“shooting” for in the future -- firearm safety classes are just

and tigers, I finally started seeing progress. I am loving the

the beginning. I am just so thankful to have a “place” for all of

results! By the time you are reading this, the building will be

these wonderful businesses!

finished and most all of the businesses I own will be housed

there -- Gooding Decorative Concrete, Legendary Shooting

finishing our new building and doing such a great job as our

Sports, and Georgia’s Pet Salon! There you are! That’s where

contractor! I don’t know if there are words that can express

the Pink Poodle comes in!

how much I appreciate all of his hard work! If you are looking

for someone to help you with a building project, give him a call.

Christine Amos and I became friends when she

Thanks so much to Mike Rogers for his help in

groomed my dogs a couple of years ago. When we saw each

You won’t regret that decision! Because of him, my stress

other last December, we started working toward opening a

level is back down to normal (whatever that is) and the lions

shop together. With her expertise in grooming and pets, and

and tigers are gone! Thank God the pink poodle remains!

my expertise in marketing and business, it was a perfect fit!

May God bless you! Come visit us!

Georgia is just the icing on the cake! You see, this big pink standard poodle is just a sweetie pie! She loves everyone, including me and all my dogs! It amazes me when Christine and I go places with her and people come up wanting their 8

ALT Magazine

November 2012

Publisher/Editor

ALWAYS ON CALL

by Jane Bouterse

he perfectly pressed, dark blue uniform remains ready, surrounded by the items required to encircle the muscular waist of 5 foot 6 inch Randy McAdams: pistol, extra ammunition rounds, collapsible baton, handcuffs, radio, pepper spray and… dog leash. Yes, dog leash. Officer Randy McAdams of the Texarkana Arkansas Police Department never works alone. His partner is canine (K9) officer, Gus. Gus is a four year-old, 80 pound German Shepherd, who proudly sports his shining police badge on his collar. The dark collar accentuates his slim black face, dark, alert eyes and upright ears. His medium-length, smooth, black and tan coat shines from both the healthy attention he receives from the McAdams Family and his breed. Gus keeps in constant motion a long, beautiful, thickly covered tail which, in an upright position, curves slightly at the end. Although Gus is a smaller German Shepherd, he still possesses the keen intelligence, courage, tenacity, loyalty and focus for which Shepherds are well-known. Originally developed as working dogs to herd sheep, the Shepherd’s work ethic is strong; his sense of smell and courage, intense, and willingness to obey, invaluable. “German Shepherds are among the most trainable of

has placed first in article search and second in overall police work and excelled in recall, i.e. calling him back from a dead run after a suspect. But Gus is a dual purpose German Shepherd. His breed tends to be favored among those enlisted to do police work. Other breeds which can be used include: • Beagle (“The Beagle Brigade” is used to smell out illicit substances.) • Belgian Malinois (Smaller, slimmer version of the German Shepherd) • Bloodhound (commonly used for tracking) all dog breeds.” Barring injuries or disabling illnesses, Shepherds may enjoy a lifespan of 10-13 years. K9 officer Gus is part of a long tradition in both business and breed. Dogs were first officially used in police work in 1890 in Ghent, Belgium. A K9’s keen sense of smell can be invaluable in the discovery of various forms of contraband especially drugs or tracking, while their speed and strength can assist in the apprehension of a fleeing suspect or criminal as well as crowd control. Therefore, their almost two years of training can produce either a single or dual purpose dog. According to Randy, Gus is a prize winner. In past certification tests, he

• Dutch Shepherd •

Labrador Retriever

•

Rottweiler

•

Springer Spaniel (their compact size allows them to squeeze easily into tight spaces)

Even among these breeds, some dogs must be passed over. Ultimately, a dog’s temperament, i.e. an ability to work well with people proves a deciding factor. Randy beams as he describes the ease with which Gus deals with people. He explains, “Gus was imported from Czechoslovakia to a November 2012

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training facility in Mississippi. Although I train dogs, I went to the training facility for four or five weeks so Gus and I could meet and get used to working together. Five weeks is a long time to be away from home, so I would come home (I live in Fouke) every weekend and bring Gus with me. He was able to meet my family, and I could see how he acted with the children.” Randy and his wife Kandi have a blended family which includes five children: 7 and 12 year old boys; two 14 year old girls and a 21 year old boy. “On his Graduation Day, Gus and I spent the whole day doing intense bite work in Mississippi, then we had a six hour drive home. Ten minutes after we got home, Gus was rolling around on the floor with the kids.” Gus had to become acquainted with not only new surroundings and people but also new canine companions. Randy has moved back to the Fouke farm on which he grew up. He assists in running the family farm which provides plenty of room for Gus to run and play and still be in a secure area. From his first visit, Gus found that his space was occupied by two other dogs. The elder dog, Shadow, is a Belgian Malinois, trained by Randy. The two of them have been together since Shadow was six months old, so she was able to begin her narcotics

searches and tracking earlier than most dogs because the two had already bonded. They also passed national certifications to be a K9 team. Randy remembers with particular pride Shadow’s finding a missing Alzheimer’s patient just before hypothermia set in. Shadow now enjoys her retirement. The other canine companion that keeps Gus busy is Dixie, the offspring of Shadow and Nero, both working canines. “I use Dixie to train Gus,” Randy notes. “Gus is a high drive dog, and he needs to be kept

Texarkana College while working at Sams Club in Texarkana. After 9 years with the Walton Family, he decided to move to Bowie County Detention Center where he did police work and SWAT training during the day and worked at night. “It was a tough time but very rewarding.” During the long nights, Randy worked with Jake, the Labrador Retriever used as a drug dog by the Sheriff’s Department. Randy used him only while working the jail. On the streets for the Sheriff’s Office, Randy and Reno worked together. Reno was a dual purpose Belgian Malinois K9 used for drug detection, tracking and apprehension. “One night I actually lost my key without realizing it. I had no idea where to look, and it was dark. Reno smelled my key and found it for me.“ Reno was a high-drive dog who had paid a heavy price for his intensity. He suffered a severe head trauma delivered by a suspect Reno caught while breaking into the New Boston Middle School. The suspect hit him with a large wrench. Reno survived, however. As usual, Reno lived with Randy and his family and Randy was training all the while. One day the dog and Randy were

“He’s smarter than I am. I’m just trying to keep up.” active, so they all run and play a lot. Shadow and Dixie help him stay in shape. “I have to work out to keep up with him. Most of the time when Gus is working, he is on a leash. There’s an art to keeping up with a dog on a leash and a suspect, too. I have to be fit to keep up. ” The constant companion and law enforcement partner of Gus. (Obviously, someone has to drive Police Unit 241) is Randy McAdams, a law enforcement officer of 15 years, who stumbled into his canine duties because of his background and interests. Randy grew up with animals on his family’s farm. Upon graduation with Honors from Fouke High School, he attended

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home alone when the dog attacked him. He just went crazy. Randy had to choke Reno to get him to release his arm so Randy could get the dog into his crate. The severity of the bleeding and extent of the injury required Randy to go to the hospital. When he finally returned from the emergency room, he found the crated dog with a completely different demeanor— as if nothing had happened. “You have to play by the dog’s rules,” Randy notes, and he has a long scar to remind him should he forget. Nonetheless, Reno’s days of service had to end, and the Sheriff’s Department began looking for a dog to replace him. That’s when Randy began training Shadow. The two worked together as a certified K9 team until Randy made the change. The announcement came from the Texarkana Arkansas Police Department. They had an immediate need for certified officers. A still grateful Randy recalls how Bowie County Sheriff Prince gave him a permissive nod. “You have to better yourself,” he advised. Although Randy enjoyed working for the county, he submitted his application to the TASD and was quickly hired. This was a time of many changes

in Randy’s life. In many ways, Randy was starting over, but it was not long until he was once again working with a K9 partner. Enter Gus. His arrival was much anticipated and welcomed by the Special Operations Unit of the Texarkana Arkansas Police Department. By the time Randy and Gus hit the streets, a strong bond had been formed between the two. Gus and the McAdams Family had bonded as well. German Shepherds are protective by nature, and Gus will not tolerate any threats—real or simulated-- to Randy or his family. Randy’s parents and Gus have become acquainted so that, in the absence of the family members, there is someone available to handle Gus should an emergency occur or during those rare times when the McAdams Family travels without him. If something should happen to Randy at work, family members would also be needed to take care of Gus. Now, there is no doubting the strength of the partnership that exists between Randy and Gus. Randy is not afraid of losing sight or control of his canine partner, since he has spent a lot of time learning how Gus works. “You always have to weigh your options and know what your dog is capable of. With a “high drive” dog like Gus whose work ethic is strong, you have to know when to push and when to pull him off.

It’s easy to push him too far. “Sometimes when Gus and other high drive dogs get going good, it’s hard to pull them off. They run faster than their brains can tell their bodies. No one is going to outrun Gus. Sometimes it aggravates him if you have to pull him off. He pouts. You can see it in his eyes. He lies down and puts his head down and sighs. “I remember a 107° day when Gus and I were called in to assist in the search for an escaped convict who was about to break into a house when someone saw him. Inside the home was a mother with several children. The first officer on the scene gave chase but was unable to keep up. Gus and I were called to assist. “We began our work within the perimeter the officers had set up. Gus was driven in his searching. I had to make him stop in the heat and get a drink from a swimming pool. His tongue was hanging out, but he was not going to stop, and we were too far from the car to get the water I always carry for him. Thanks to the perimeter my associates set up for us, Gus found, then convinced the convict not to mess with this K9 officer. Gus is bite trained, but he seldom has to bite. “Gus and his determination remind me a lot of Shadow,” Randy reflects. “One time Shadow and I answered a Domestic Disturbance call in the county. I had to fight with the husband in the woods to take him into custody, and Shadow was with me. About three months later, we get another

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call for the same address. When Shadow and I arrived on scene to assist officers, the suspect came out of the woods and gave up. All I had to do was to shout that I had Shadow with me, and if the man did not come out of the woods, Shadow was coming in after him. The man came out of the woods on his own. Shadow never moved. Gus has a memory every bit as sharp as Shadow’s.” This savvy German Shepherd recognizes the difference between work and play, even the differences in the kinds of calls. He quickly determines when pursuits are necessary, and he can tell when to get ready for a fight. He gets different commands when searching for a lost child, a felon or even someone trying to commit suicide, and “he is able to turn off and on so well.” Randy often uses Gus to track his own children or have them hide to create training situations for him. The reward Gus receives varies with the situation. When Gus jumps out of his car, Unit 241— with K-9 Unit and a large K-9 head painted on both sides—he usually has a piece of fire hose in his mouth. Randy serves as a Volunteer Fireman with the Fouke Volunteer Fire Department. When the Department’s fire hose went bad, Randy was given the entire hose. Its thick covering serves as a perfect toy for Gus, so Randy cuts lengths of the hose as needed to provide both a jaw exerciser and toy to keep Gus busy, especially in the backseat of the police car. The other toys signal different rewards. Randy laughs but is also serious as

he acknowledges that Gus works in order to have the chance to play: different jobs earn him different rewards. This basic concept of “reward for his toy” is what drives Gus in his narcotics searches. “The dog,” Randy explains, “is not looking because he is hooked on drugs, as some say. We never let any of the dogs get access to drugs. We always have a safety check before the dog gets in the car. Once a K9 has alerted officers to the scent of narcotics in the car, no warrant is required. Frequently the individuals will tell the police where to find the drugs. Lots of people may hate cops, but they don’t want the dog hurt.” When Gus finishes the job, he gets to play. “Sometimes I set Gus up for failure so that he can learn to work through a problem.That way when we face those issues at work we are better prepared to succeed. For example, he hears loud noises but cannot find the cause. That’s what happens when we go into nightclubs with loud music or band concerts or even firecrackers on the 4th of July.” Since working crowd control is often a “Gus” job, he has to learn to deal with the noises even though he doesn’t understand them. On occasion his keen memory confuses him. For example, he may remember music from a nightclub disturbance then hear the same kind of music at a concert. Randy is aware of the challenges to Gus and in control. “High energy K9s are much like high energy kids. The kids are great, but they sometimes make bad decisions. The trick is

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knowing where Gus is [in his head].” Randy has even learned in what languages to speak to Gus. “He speaks Czech and Redneck. I have to speak to him in both of them,” Randy laughs. K9 Officer Gus and Randy McAdams are quite a pair. Both represent the best of their respective species— intelligent, caring, and committed—perhaps that is the reason they get along so well. Randy attributes his success to God and his faith and his awesome family that “keeps me with my head straight. Just months apart this year I had a child die in my arms and was able to save one before he died.” Gus? Well, Gus jumps out of the back seat of his K-9 Unit with his hose in his mouth, runs over for a pat and takes off in a run. He, too, is intelligent, caring and committed and has a family and partner who loves him. According to Randy, “He’s smarter than I am. I’m just trying to keep up.” Randy and Gus are one component of the Texarkana Arkansas Police Department—a Department that goes to great lengths to help keep the community they serve a safe, desirable place to live. As Randy declares: “TAPD has always tried to be on the cutting edge and have the tools and training needed to protect both the citizens and its officers.” The citizens of Texarkana, Arkansas, are fortunate and should rest easy. These two officers—Randy McAdams and K9 Officer Gus—are “Always on Call.”

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by Jane Bouterse

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover”—Mark Twain

ow startlingly appropriate this bit of wisdom from one of America’s greatest authors! Texarkana College Professor of English Mary Ellen Young understands Twain’s skills as a writer while she lives the accuracy of his observation. Mary Ellen is one of the ten children of Texarkana’s well-known Dr. Mitchell and Donna Young Family. She has 8 brothers—5 orthopedic surgeons, 2 ER medicine physicians and a “cowboy” equine vet—and one sister, who like her mother attended nursing school. Mary Ellen excelled in scouting earning the Gold Award, the Girl Scout equivalent of the Boy Scouts’ Eagle, earned by all of her brothers. ACTIVE is a word and a way of life Mary Ellen understood early. With so many siblings, she always had plenty of playmates and enjoyed being outside. Whether chasing, climbing or challenging her brothers, Mary Ellen held her own ground, but she also enjoyed her Barbies. As a young man, Dad Mitchell Young had ridden his bicycle over gravel roads from Texarkana to the Scouts’ Camp Pioneer in Mena, AR. Riding bicycles proved important to the entire family who would ride together. Mary Ellen received her first bike at the age of five and immediately joined the family bike caravan--dad in front; mom bringing up the rear. Education has always been important to the Young Family, so whether they were learning from books or in the swimming pool or sharing maps and slides, their exposure to exploration and discovery began early. Dr. and Mrs. Young had been

stationed with the Air Force for two years in Bangkok, Thailand, and Mary Ellen recalls how her parents eagerly shared their slides and memories of their Thai experiences. “Both of my parents encouraged travel from as early as I can remember. They always maintained ‘[travel] shapes you in ways nothing else will.’” No wonder, then, that after her 1980 graduation from Texas Senior High School, Mary Ellen enrolled in East Texas State University-Texarkana (now Texas A&M-Texarkana) to earn her Bachelor of Science in English and history and secondary education certification. Her ETSU-T graduation was in 1984 and launched Mary Ellen into a world for which she had been well prepared. She moved to Sugarland, TX, and the Fort Bend ISD where she taught seventh and eighth grades; then a move to Houston ISD for some ninth grade English teaching while serving as aquatics director, swim team coach and certified Red Cross swimming instructor at River Oaks Country Club. There were even a few competitive tennis matches. Mary Ellen also succumbed to the siren call of travel with trips to Cancun, Cozumel and Acapulco, Mexico. Her brother Tom had visited Auckland, New Zealand, as a Rotary Scholar and two of her brothers, Chris and John, worked and went to school in Germany. She had to begin her own travel adventures, but how? Mary Ellen’s teaching proved to be the key and DoDDS (Department of Defense Dependent Schools), the door. A visit with her cousin teaching in a

DoDDS school affirmed her decision, but the teaching positions were competitive and a Master’s Degree was required. What subjects were most needed? Once again— investigation. Ultimately, she was most competitive with a Masters in ESL (English as a Second Language) and Reading Specialist certification. East Texas State University-Texarkana provided her just the curriculum and degree she needed. She enrolled and in 1994 graduated with her Masters of Education and the necessary certification. With her degree, and the experience she had gained as a graduate student teaching adjunct classes for Texarkana College, Mary Ellen was ready to “throw off the bowlines and catch the trade winds in her sails.” A ten day trip to Europe and tours of seven countries defined her choices. She relished the environment and being surrounded by different languages and cultures, so she applied to teach in a DoDDS school. Her first choice for a location was Europe. With customary government precision, her DoDDS offer was to go to Japan and she had 24 hours to accept. “My parents always taught me to be happy and to think outside the box. I was afraid if I declined the Japan offer, they would not call me again. Ten days after the offer, I was at the Yokota Air Force Base in Fussa, Japan.” She had definitely left her “safe harbor.” “The Yokota Air Base is located on the island of Honshu, Japan, on the Kanto Plain 28 miles northeast of Tokyo at the foothills of the Okutama Mountains.” The Base serves both US and UN forces and November 2012

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has a population of about eleven thousand including approximately 163 DoDDS teachers and staff. Mary Ellen quickly learned that 28 miles could be a journey on the narrow roads just cut through and slow speeds--never over 100 kilometers (60 mph). Nonetheless, she managed to travel twice to her parents’ Thailand, Hong Kong, Bali, Indonesia, and in 1998 spent three days at the Nagano Winter Olympics. She was beginning to Explore, Dream and Discover, not only events but people. During her tenure, Mary Ellen was welcomed into many of the Japanese homes where they provided her a glimpse of their lives while practicing their English. From her Japanese friends she learned to appreciate the tranquility of Zen and the beauty of a garden. On a vacation to Kyoto as the guest of a Japanese family, she saw places most Americans never have a chance to see. One family had a vacation home at the base of Mt. Fuji. It was here she quickly learned she was not a golfer. For Mary Ellen, the surroundings were the fascination. The caddy walked behind the golfers and cared for the four bag golf cart with a remote control. A conveyor belt sidewalk accommodated the golfers so that when they came to a hill instead of walking, they rode “the sidewalk” uphill. When she first arrived in Japan, she took a culture class which proved she would need lots of practice with chopsticks. The instructor gave her 100 to get her started. She did manage to master sushi

ALT Magazine

November 2012

with chopsticks as well as some noodles. The beauty of seasonal changes was celebrated by memorable fall fests and spring cherry blossoms. Beauty, reverence for nature and ceremony were crucial elements of the Japanese culture. For example, Mary Ellen learned every visit to a Japanese home required a gift but only cut flowers were appropriate—never a plant. “The plant grows in the ground and should be allowed to remain or returned to the ground.” Another ceremony: When you enter a home, remove your shoes.” The Japanese have different slippers for different rooms. Japanese travel, frequently trains, was an experience. Mary Ellen was reminded of how crowded the country had become by the “stuffed” trains, but they moved quickly. “I took a bullet train to the Olympics,” she reports. “It was GREAT. It traveled at 150 mph, but it didn’t feel like it was moving that fast.” Japanese depend on uniforms, too. The uniform identifies the person’s occupation. School bus drivers, for example, all wear white gloves, and there are lace curtains on the buses. During her three years in Japan, Mary Ellen was constantly learning, but one surprising lesson opened her eyes and left an indelible impression: Japan made Mary Ellen aware of the challenges and sacrifices made by military families during their deployments. After three years of service, DoDDS employees were eligible to move

to a new location. This time Mary Ellen got her European choice: Robinson Barracks, the most scenic of four posts in Stuttgart, Germany. Germany was more Western than Japan, so Mary Ellen immediately felt at home. “It was more fun,” she acknowledges, “with things to do and travel to different countries was so easy,” The challenge in Germany was finding a place to live. Although she had lived in a hotel during a portion of her stay in Japan, the hotel was on the base. In Germany she lived for six months in a hotel not on the base; therefore, she had to live on the economy. Until she was able to find a row house (duplex), Mary Ellen’s closet was the trunk of her car. When she first moved to Germany, the dollar was strong. Shortly after she changed her currency to the Euro, the value of the dollar fell. “To do this job, you have to be flexible,” she laughs. Flexibility applied not just to a place to live or changing currency but also friendships. “Good byes are hard!” Fortunately, the seven or eight close friends she made during her stay in Japan transferred to Spain and Germany and England, so they could meet in various places and explore. “I’ve been to the Czech Republic where I visited Karly Vary [reputed to be the most beautiful spa town in all of Europe whose thermal mineral springs have been used for therapeutic purposes balneology over 650 years] and Prague — two of my favorite places.” The greatest challenge in Germany remained the language, especially when talking on the phone or seeking home repairs. The teaching for Mary Ellen was different, too. Students in Japan had ranged from seventh to twelfth grade, so she taught classes in ESL, Reading and AVID (a college prep course) while her students in Germany were in kindergarten through sixth grade. The experiences, though different in many ways, remained remarkably the same. Nonetheless, after three years in Germany, she realized it was time to come home. She missed her family. When her housing contract ended, so did her tenure as a DoDDS teacher. She said her temporary farewells. “I have met the most interesting people along the way. We are still friends.” She would make it a point to see them again. Her life was permanently changed, too: for her--Twain’s “Explore, Dream, Discover” had become her guide. Back in the US, she needed a bridge. Mary Ellen was uncertain exactly what she would do, so she paired her talents and her memories to let her heart speak. She wrote a book—a book for children. The book, Highland Park Kids/ Chase’s Special Gift, is dedicated to “…the children of military families around the world” and tells the story of Chase, a second grader at Highland Park School (Mary Ellen’s alma mater). She does not meet him at Highland Park, however, but on a US Military Installation where his dad is preparing for deployment. “Chase knows that this is part

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of his father’s job, but he is feeling a little sad.” To help him deal with his sadness, Chase’s dad gives him a special gift that Chase is able to take to school and share with his classmates, many of whom also have parents on deployment. Mary Ellen’s story is a touching, teaching story which enables readers to get a much better understanding of the challenges a family touched by the military must endure. Students or adults can read this story, regardless of age and be informed. Facing the agony of separation with Chase and his family provides civilians an opportunity for understanding and appreciation heretofore neglected by inadequate experience. The manuscript is written in English and Spanish so that few families will be denied access to the feelings of Chase, his dad and mom, Nick his older brother, even Bubbles the family dog. Mary Ellen has launched what she hopes will be a series of books to increase understanding of the different lives military families must live to keep all of us safe. She has put her memories to good use. However, her new exploration had just begun. From writing to selling real estate to a home based business to the college classroom, Mary Ellen has proved “I am game to try anything. I try to take any experience and learn from it and incorporate it into my life. It is just as important to know what you don’t want to do as what you do want.”

She has also provided a sterling example of the importance of timing and networking. When she returned to Texarkana, her English mentor Dr. Charles Mazer, from TAMU-T, shared with her the speculation that Jane Bouterse, a Texarkana College English Professor, was preparing to retire. Mary Ellen began to position herself for the soon-to-be-vacated job. She was in the right place at the right time and was immediately hired. “I came back for a few years,” she observes, “and they have turned into ten. But I love teaching on the community college level. I love the Texarkana College atmosphere, and the students are amazing in the way they balance children, work and school. “Last semester I had three students who worked the graveyard shift, but still made an 8 a.m. class. I had two pregnant students: one missed one day and the other missed a week because of her C-section. Students drive from as far away as DeQueen and Dierks. Some have been out of school for a while, and it’s amazing to see them as they build their confidence and achieve their dreams. “Some of these are first generation college students who are breaking a barrier. They are changing not just themselves but also their families for generations to come.” Mary Ellen’s enthusiasm is evident in her voice, the way she smiles as she sits more erectly and moves her head and hands when she talks about the students from

whom she has learned. By their admiring responses, the students affirm she has changed their lives, too [a not uncommon occurrence on a two year college campus]. Their meeting is a fortunate one. Now, her energies have been applied not just to her classrooms but also to Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society and their Leadership Development Studies and Texarkana College administrative responsibilities. By her own observations, Mary Ellen recognizes she has many more journeys to make—more time with her family, especially her mom; time in the family’s cabin at Camp Albert Pike, and travel. Ireland and Scotland beckon her to explore her roots; while scuba diving and discoveries await on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Who knows? “I have been blessed with parents who taught me the value of education, hard work and travel,” Mary Ellen admits, “and I have learned so much. Although customs may be different, people around the world share many of the same values and desires: peace, a tranquil life, a home and family. We all have much to learn from each other.” Twenty years from now Mary Ellen Young probably will have few regrets. Like a genuine student she has listened to her parents and… Mark Twain. She continues to catch the trade winds to Explore, Dream and Discover. Her example is worth following.

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hold that moisture against your body and sap body heat from you. This can quickly lead to hypothermia, even if only wet from sweat. Believe it or not you do perspire in the winter and more than you think. So what should you consider by Mike Brower wearing? In short, synthetic fibers or wool. Wool is a great insulator and insulates relatively well when wet, but does become heavy. Those idiots who climb Mt. Everest wear wool as part of a layer. Good enough for them, good s we are coming into winter, I feel the need to cover enough for me. a topic again since several people have requested it. Most of us older guys have gone from the snowmobile Synthetic fibers such as Under Armor type garments will suits to clothing layers over the years as new information wick moisture away from the body, which improves their has come to light, but what you wear for those layers can insulation properties. Although some people complain of a and will make a difference in your ability to be comfortable clammy type feeling while wearing them, the sensation is and safe while enjoying the winter outdoors. the material doing its job wicking moisture away from the body to be evaporated. Let me just repeat what people who live outdoors have to say: “COTTON KILLS.” Cotton and other natural fibers have When I’m fishing in January or February and it’s cold, ZERO insulating properties, do not wick moisture away from I have on 3 layers of clothes and can stay comfortable the body and is the worst thing you can wear even if used down to 12 degrees without the bulk. So try layering with as a layer. Because cotton holds so much moisture, it can synthetic materials and be cool while you stay warm.

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by Christine Amos

Family...

eople do different things to relax. I groom dogs. It helps me clear my mind. Having said that I have to tell you this story.

So today I was giving a bath to a dog and while lathering up the suds, I started to think about my family. I have a very large family. I looked down at this sweet face, water running off of it, and thought to myself, “I see you every day now. I consider you family and although you aren’t on my food or vet bill you are part of my extended family.” I think Scout liked my thought process. The more I thought about how I loved him, the more he seemed to respond to that. His tail wagged, his toothy grin got bigger and he was trying to get his huge body as close to me as he could. Then I took this thought a little further. I started recalling all the fur kids that I have in my life now and those that have come and gone. My love for these babies is unbiased. So you have a missing eye? Ok, you still have one to see your way to me and get a treat before you go home. That would be Peanut. Her mom is Teri, but I have groomed and loved her. Mine! So you’re a rescue. I have many of them in my family. Paulie, Sophie, Lily, Hank, Cici, Maisy, Petie, oh my! My list could go on forever but these are the immediate babies that come to mind. They all have a story. But I call them MINE! I have a few that I have loved that have crossed over the Rainbow Bridge that will forever be etched in my heart. Mattie, my sweet Scottie, and Shadow, the most loving poodle anyone could ever ask to be able to love! Let’s not forget Betsy. She was the meanest blind and deaf dog that anyone could EVER imagine but she was always sweet to me. Yup! You got it! Mine! So you’re a little big and your momma says you need to go on a diet? That’s ok, Roxie, I still love you! Mine! Do your ears hang low? Do they wobble to and fro? Do your brothers tie them in a knot? Do they tie them in a bow? Awww, Teddy, you sweet boy! Mine! I guess you have figured it out. If I have spent 24

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time with you alone, I love you and you are mine! I know, I know….they really weren’t mine but I love them all as if they were and are mine! They all love me back and it is definitely unconditional. They don’t care what I wear or if my hair is out of place. I guess we all want that unconditional love. If you don’t have a dog you should borrow one. Pet it. You will find more sweetness in those few moments than you will find in many other places. I’m quite certain my husband is thankful that I am a groomer as I can love them and not have to be a collector! But I really am a collector! I just don’t have to feed them all. I have the best of both worlds! I think my fur kids “real parents” approve. I know that those I call MINE do! They always want to come back to see me. What a wonderful family I have! Mine. My family, there is always room for more! Editor’s Note: Please come visit Christine at her new shop, Georgia’s Pet Salon and Boutique, open now at 101 Slaton Drive, Nash, Texas! If you are interested in having your pet loved by ONLY THE BEST, this is the place to go! See you there!

Christine Amos has over 30 years experience grooming pets and an owner of Georgia’s Pet Salon. She is a Certified Groomer, Master Groomer, AKC Canine Good Citizenship Evaluator, and Obedience Trainer. She is also Mom to Georgia (pictured), MoMo, and Annabelle!

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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.

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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 has a casually festive atmosphere, 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. Crossroads also welcomes Mexican restaurant, Amigo Juan! Amigo Juan’s fine dining and casual family atmosphere make it an area favorite, and just across the interstate, El Chico is making its long-awaited return to Texarkana, Arkansas! More businesses are expected to follow the lead and add to the growth! 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! www.imageforwardpublications.com

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by Vincent Senatore

Wine and Thanksgiving

elieve it or not, the most important wine holiday of the year is Thanksgiving. In my other life as an importer and as a wholesaler, my first priority was to be sure that my portfolio of wines was available to the American retailers by the second week of October. That means that we would have to ship our wines (from Europe) by the first week of September. Further, since Italy is closed for vacation in August, we would need to have all of our wine products ready to ship by mid-July. All of this preparation is entirely based on the need to be ready for our Thanksgiving holiday.

non-turkey people, Nouveau Beaujolais and Pinot Noir are excellent with ham or vegetarian specialties. I didn’t forget the dessert. I really like to finish a great meal with a bottle of port, surrounded by some stilton cheese, assorted nuts, ripe pears and a big chunk of a delicious dark chocolate. Whether we have Nouveau, Pinot, or Grandpa’s Red, wine is an outstanding accompaniment to most Thanksgiving Feasts. Drink in MODERATION. Happy Thanksgiving!

Talking about preparation and “Hoopla,” November 15th of this year is one of the most important wine days of the year. It’s Nouveau Beaujolais Day! Nouveau Beaujolais is a light, vibrant wine that will match most of the foods that one might find on their Thanksgiving plate. The wine is produced from the Gamay grape and vinified with a process called Carbonic Maceration or Whole Berry Fermentation. At harvest, the hand-picked fruit is put into sealed fermentation tanks and filled with carbon-dioxide gas. The carbon-dioxide gas then permeates the grape skins and starts fermentation, inside the grape. Thus the name - Whole Berry Fermentation. This process emphasizes fruit flavors without extracting bitter tannins from the grape skins and a wine that emits a super floral bouquet of fresh cut flowers, a rich, luscious mouthful of berry flavors and a fresh, clean finish. Fuggetaboudit!!! Based on the wine’s low tannins, Nouveau has a very short shelf life. I recommend that one should consume this wine within 5 months of its release. The best part of Nouveau is the fact that it is ideal with your Thanksgiving dinner. Usually, the Thanksgiving feast consists of a number of side dishes as well as the turkey and or a ham. Since turkey or ham is such a small part of the meal, Nouveau Beaujolais blends well with everything on the plate. Further, I can’t think of a better wine with ham or pork roasts. While Nouveau Beaujolais is my Thanksgiving “go-to wine,” there are some fun wines that I really like to accentuate your Thanksgiving feast. Certainly, if you want to have a great starter wine, you would be best served with a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. The tropical fruit bouquet and the crisp dry flavors will match up really well with an antipasto platter or some cheese and crackers. For those who deep fry their turkey, a nice Gewürztraminer or crisp Riesling would be great. Smoked turkey fans, do not despair. Australian Shiraz and Merlot are waiting for you. And, for all of the November 2012

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WINTER 2012-2013

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WINTER 2012-2013 /contents

k / COVER

Tara and Lee...

Elegance and class...both words to describe this fabulous couple and their wedding.

F E AT U R E S 48

Justin and Ashley Hildebrant A LT W e d d i n g P h o t o C o n t e s t W i n n e r

The True Light HELPFUL INFO

ENGAGEMENTS 61

D y a m o n d R o b i n s o n t o G r e g B a n k s , J r.

Sara Garrison to Ross Heath

Victoria Brooks to Boomer Daugherty

Resource Guide

WEDDINGS 41

Ta r a M o n r o e t o L e e B u o n o

B l a k e a n d Ta y l o r B a r r

Tiffanie Spriggs to D. J. Stewart

Ashley Parker to Jason Harris

Brianna Haynes to Christopher Lee

Diana Rains to Pat Howard

Kim Schooley to Josh Pinkham

Lindsay Phillips to Marshall Craig

Publisher and Editor / Debbie Brower

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Tara & Lee

Tara Monroe to Lee Buono

September 22, 2012 First United Methodist Church - Texarkana, AR How They Met... Tara and Lee met on a blind date. Tara’s mom was friends with an acquaintance of Lee’s, a surgeon, who was a radiology oncologist. They got together and decided to put Tara’s picture with a patient’s films that they were sending to Lee to look at. (They also carried out this plan without ever telling Tara!) Lee had the picture for several weeks but felt a little strange calling Tara out of the blue. His neighbor knew Tara’s family well and when he found out what was going on he told Lee to go for it. He called Tara the next day. They went out the day after Lee called and Tara immediately knew they had something very special. They ended up falling in love within a few months for many reasons. Anyone who knows Tara or Lee knows that neither takes life too seriously. They make each other laugh constantly and are always there to support each other in whatever path they choose to take. Tara says of Lee, “He truly is my very best friend and that deepens my love for him more each day.”

The Proposal... Lee proposed on December 21, 2011, at their home over Christmas music and a fire. The couple was doing their annual “guess” gift, which is usually just a cheap little something they give each other before Christmas day. As Tara was trying to guess her gift he blindfolded her. When it was time to take the blindfold off he was standing in front of me in a suit. Tara recalls, “I have no idea what he said, but before I knew it he was on one knee with a beautiful ring and a tear rolling down his face. After I said yes and we composed ourselves he showed me pictures of the man who cut my diamond (he was also the man that invented the princess cut!) Then he told me he was flying my best friends and mom to New Jersey in January and sending us to New York to shop for a wedding dress at Kleinfelds! He even managed to get them to close down the entire store for my appointment and he had Pnina Tornei fly in from Israel to be there to help design my dress! It was the most special and memorable thing anyone has ever done for me.”

November 2012

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Wedding Party... Mother of the Bride: Jeanna Rogers Step-father of the Bride: Mike Rogers Father of the Bride: Noah Monroe Step-mother of the Bride: Lucinda Monroe Grandmother of the Bride: Kay Rogers Parents of the Groom: Dr. And Mrs. Joseph Buono Matrons of Honor: Carly Moseley Lindsay Young Bridesmaids: Samantha Palmore Kaysi Upton Anna Menyhart Kim Owens Ashley Buono Kelly Babb Best Man: Bob Greenwood Groomsmen: Dean Buono Chris Buono Clint Pinkham Jimmy Rice Todd Roberts House Party: Meghan Wilson Morghan Rogers Cynthia Buono Ushers: Ryan Roberts Drew Pendergraft Mark Young Adam Owens Adam Roberts Alex Roberts Flower Girls: Chesley Pinkham Caroline Pinkham Giselle Lamare Ring Bearer: Joseph Buono Cross Bearer: Aden Roberts

ALT Magazine

November 2012

Photography: Image Forward Photography www.imageforwardweddings.com Videography: Selena Jefferies Fresh Focus Films Florist: Sticks & Stones Reception Designer: Kyle Barrett Cakes: Bakerman Catering: Northridge Country Club Ice Sculpture: Frostbite Ice Sculptures -Shreveport, LA Wedding Dress: Kleinfeld -New York Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal Tuxes: Men’s Wearhouse Band: Identity Theft -Dallas, TX Mister Photo Booth: Beckie Hughes -Tulsa, OK Limo Service: European Limousine Shreveport, LA Ceremony Programs: Southwest Printers

November 2012

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Jodi & Brian Jodi Page to Brian Krullis

July 28, 2012 Ramage Farms - Hooks, TX

ALT Magazine

November 2012

Photography: Image Forward Photography www.imageforwardweddings.com

Florist: Ruthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Flowers

Caterer: Big Jakes BBQ

November 2012

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Heath & Lauren

Congratulations From:

Gilbert 7 . 2 1 . 1 2 “Micah was so easy and accommodating for both Heath and I. The staff at Micah’s are also top notch! The entire experience was wonderful and made purchasing the perfect ring possible.” -Lauren

ALT Magazine

November 2012

0.5

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10/4/12 12:58 PM

Justin & Ashley Hildebrandt

by: Anne Fruge

think he’d ever get heard. Well, thanks to the kindness of people, his story is going to be told, and that makes my heart smile.” It was hardly “love at first sight” the first time Ashley and Justin met at the Four States Fair. Ashley was a junior at Arkansas High School and Justin had just graduated from Texas High School and was working at the family business, Artex Tire Co., as a tire repair technician. He was also dating one of Ashley’s good friends, Jennifer. “I honestly didn’t really like him at first,” Ashley says with a smile. ”He was loud and didn’t care what other thought of him; he did what he wanted and wasn’t afraid to speak his mind. I, on the other hand, am usually pretty quiet and keep to myself. We were total opposites.” After the first meeting, Ashley continued to hang out with Justin and Jennifer, but when they broke up four months later, Ashley was surprised that he called and asked if she wanted to come to a gettogether at his house. Ashley didn’t think that

his invitation meant anything more, so she agreed. “After that night, we spent more time together, and eventually became really good friends,” Ashley says. “We saw each other almost every day. He told me after about a month of hanging out that he wanted to date me. I was so shy, I turned him down numerous times. He never gave up though.” Justin pursued Ashley even though she rejected him many times and insisted that what they had was simply friendship. However, at another fair outing, Ashley ran into an unwanted suitor and employed Justin to be her “boyfriend for the night.” “He was ecstatic. He held onto my hand for most of that night,” Ashley says. “After that night, we kinda just went with it. We started dating, and I found myself falling in love with him. I loved being with him, he was so funny and amazing. He was so romantic. I remember he set up these tea candles in the backyard one night and they said “I <3 U.” I think that was the night I fell

August 19, 2012

The length of a love story is hardly factored into its power. Love stays with hearts for generations and changes all those who experience it. Even though Ashley and Justin Hildebrandt were only married for exactly forty days, their love has united families, friends and has inspired all who hear it to never take one single day for granted. Ashley and Justin were the winners of the Newlywed Picture Contest for ALT Magazine. The picture was one of Ashley’s favorites from the wedding and though she never thought she would win, she wanted to share her story. “I’m doing all of this for Justin,” Ashley says. “He is why I’ve decided to share this with you. After he got diagnosed, he always said he wanted to share his story. He wanted to write a book or an article or just anything to get his story out there, so people will know that age does not matter. Cancer can take you at any time. But he always said he wasn’t any good at writing so he didn’t 48

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hard for him.” Ashley and Justin began dating seriously, and after a few years of dating Ashley knew that “he was the rest of her forever.” Though they never had a lot of money, the pair spent their time together watching movies, fishing, shooting at Smith Park’s shooting range, playing video games, and even after he was diagnosed and could not be as active, Ashley and Justin bought Lego kits and built houses and cars and helicopters. “He was always so sweet to me, and he spoiled me as much as he could,” Ashley says. “If I wanted something, he usually found a way to get it for me, even if we didn’t have a penny to our name. He just wanted our times together to be happy.” Though they truly loved each other, Ashley and Justin split ways about a year before his diagnosis with Crohn’s Disease. When they started talking again, it was like they had never been apart. “We went to the fair, we have a lot of fair memories, and we had a great time, but he barely touched his food. I could tell he wasn’t feeling well,” Ashley says. “He explained Crohn’s to me and that it wasn’t fatal, just painful sometimes, but he went home that night and texted me that he was thinking about going to the ER.” Ashley got up and went to work at the service deli in Albertson’s. “He finally texted me and told me the doctor said he had colon cancer. My first thought was, “No. No way,” Ashley says. “I asked him if was kidding, but he wasn’t. I felt like my world got flipped upside down.” Justin was rushed into emergency surgery where part of his colon and a large tumor that had broken through his colon and touched his liver was removed. They also removed a few lymph nodes that contained cancer cells. When Ashley got off work and was able to see him, she realized that he had a colostomy bag. “I didn’t understand what was happening, it happened so quickly. All I knew was that I wasn’t going to leave him,” Ashley says. “I wanted to spend my life with him, I didn’t care if he was sick, I wasn’t going to leave him.” After healing from his colon resection, Justin was scheduled to start chemotherapy the week of Christmas. He completed 12 rounds of chemo, and Justin and Ashley began to feel like life was starting to feel more like normal. “The chemo made him sick, but he didn’t let it get him down,” Ashley says. “He still got out and lived his life. We went out fishing and shooting, and there was even talk of him getting his colostomy reversed; we were excited. We were scheduling appointments and getting ready to move on to the next part of our lives, without cancer. Then we got some cat scan results. They

said that the cancer was back.” Justin’s cancer had reemerged in his liver and lymph nodes, and in disbelief, Ashley and Justin started preparing for more chemotherapy. Justin applied for financial aid and ordered his chemotherapy treatments, but in a month’s time the cancer spread to his right lung and the knot on his neck from the malignant lymph nodes was the size of an orange. The doctors advised Justin that chemotherapy would just weaken him and might shorten his time. “There was no cure, there were no surgeries, there was nothing we could do,” Ashley says. “We decided the night he was diagnosed stage four cancer that we wanted to get married. We wanted to have that experience and spend the rest of his days as husband and wife. We were just going to go to the courthouse and get married there, simple, quick and easy, but his family got wind of us getting married and they wanted it done right.” Every member of the family began to rally around the couple to create the perfect day for Ashley and Justin. Justin’s cousin and aunt, Britnee Donaldson and Sandee Palmer, completed the decorations, and Justin’s grandfather was able to secure the Masonic Lodge in Wake Village for the ceremony and reception. A high school friend, Tiffany Willimason, and April Graves took the pictures as a wedding present. The bride and groom didn’t have time to make the affair the expensive and detailed ceremony that many couples experience. Instead, the couple borrowed the décor from Hobby Lobby and though Ashley found a dress at Reed’s Bridal, Justin’s attire was assembled from K-Mart and Wal-Mart. To add personal detail, Ashley took a blue Sharpie and drew cancer awareness ribbons on her shoes as her “something blue.” “My favorite memory from the wedding is when I came down the stairs and saw the smile on Justin’s face when he finally got to see me in the wedding dress,” Ashley says. “He was smiling ear to ear, and I’ll never forget how happy he was that day. He never complained about not feeling well that day, but I could tell by looking at him that he was hurting. However, he wanted our day to be perfect.” The couple cancelled their honeymoon in Memphis and instead decided to stay close to home in a hotel in Texarkana. Justin took Ashley to the Red Lobster after the wedding for a meal and ate every bite, which was surprising to Ashley. “We had a good night out, enjoying each other. He pretended like he was fine and he wasn’t going to let cancer ruin our night,” Ashley says. “We went back to the hotel room and relaxed after the long day. I finally fell asleep, but he woke me up around 4 am crying and saying he wanted to go to the ER. So I took him, they admitted him November 2012

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and we spent the next week in the hospital trying to get his pain managed.” The family got Dierksens Hospice involved so that Justin could go home and be comfortable instead of remaining in the hospital. In the last few weeks of his life, Justin was limited in activities, but the newlyweds spent all the time together they could. If Justin wanted to go get ice cream or go to Game Exchange or Wal-Mart, Ashley would drive him there. “I can only remember about four outings that we had after we got out of the hospital that last time, and two of those trips were to Wal-Mart,” Ashley says. “I was really confused at the time because he wanted to buy us both new clothes and anything else we needed. I think now that he knew deep down that he wasn’t going to be around much longer.” Ashley decided to enter the ALT Magazine Newlywed Photo Contest but when she saw they were 300 votes behind, she wrote off the contest as a long shot. “I was in love with the picture that I entered, and I wanted everyone to see it,” Ashley says. “I had this love that was so pure, and I wanted to share it. I told Justin about it, and he was a little excited. We had over 50 likes in just one day; that was more than we thought we would get. He liked the idea of being featured in a magazine, even if it was just a small one. He would never dream that it would turn into what it has!” Justin passed away on September 29, 2012, and a friend posted the wedding picture again on her Facebook. Their story spread across the Internet, and the picture started catching up in the contest. The owner of the other finalist photos, Brianna Lee, even contacted Ashley and offered to withdraw and give her the votes. “I couldn’t believe how fast word got out, and I still can’t believe how kind everyone has been,” Ashley says. “We came out in first place.” Since her husband’s passing, Ashley has been trying to take life one day at a time. She is slowly returning to work, signed up for Race for the Cure and is trying to find ways to spread awareness for colon cancer in memory of Justin. In telling her story, Ashley shares some of the hardest lessons she has ever had to learn.

“I’ve learned not to take people for granted. I never would have ever imagined that this would happen to me, to Justin, to ANYONE that I know,” Ashley says. “A life can be taken so quickly, without any kind of warning. I just want to tell everyone to appreciate what they have and who they have in their life. What you have today, may not be here tomorrow.”

Photography: April Graves and Tiffany Williamson 50

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Dress: Reed’s Bridal

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Blake & Taylor Barr “I absolutely love my ring. It’s exactly what I wanted. Micah has been the nicest, easiest person to work with. He’s so flexible and personable. We couldn’t imagine working with anyone else. He even helped us with all our gifts for the entire wedding party.” -Taylor

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Tiffanie & DJ Tiffanie Spriggs to DJ Stewart

September 8, 2012 Eastgate Fellowships- Texarkana, TX

How They Met... Tiffanie and DJ met on December 11, 2010, through some of their friends. The two began talking and developed a close relationship. After 3 months, they decided to take their friendship to the next level. Tiffanie remembers, “We started this journey on March 28, 2011, and little did we know, God would begin working in our lives and our relationship. The more we grew closer to Christ, the more he brought us together! It became evident to DJ that I was the one God had set aside for him.”

Proposal... Tiffanie says, “On the Fourth of July, DJ surprised me with a candle light dinner at his house, after I got off work. I was very surprised and I knew what was about to happen as soon as I walked in the door. I felt nervous, and ended up knocking over a glass, spilling everywhere! So, we had to move the dinner in the living room. After dinner, he had me close my eyes while he got down on one knee and asked if I would be his wife, with tears in his eyes. Of course, I agreed!”

Wedding Party... Maid of Honor: Charla Woodruff Best Man: Grayson Sullivan Giving Away of Bride: William Bleam, Grandfather of the Bride

November 2012

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ALT Magazine

November 2012

Photography: Bethany PerkinsBlueberry Hill Photography Rentals/Supplies: Dots Rentals Cakes: Debbie at Albertsons on Belt Rd.

November 2012

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Pick your fabric & let us WOW you with the perfect living room pieces!

Something for Every Member of the Family! 58

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Come and stroll through our show-room and see why Oak Creek is the place to get your next furniture set! Beautiful, handcrafted bedroom sets in all sizes, including cribs, are available, or ask us to create a custom set just for you! Oak Creek Furniture offers custom options to help our customers acheive the exact look they have been dreaming of!

Stop By Oak Creek Furniture Today and Discover Everything We Have to Offer! Why is Oak Creek Furniture Different?

Almost perfect... Six days a week, Oak Creek Furniture craftsmen make some of the most beautiful handmade furniture known to man. And seven days a week, they struggle to refrain from unseemly pride, which isn’t easy when you’re constantly raising the bar.

We have chosen Amish furniture craftsmen who are recognized leaders in the solid wood furniture industry. Amish furniture is made by hand in small Amish wood shops so every piece of furniture receives the same attention to detail. Our Amish handcrafted furniture is built to last.

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Warranty...

We work very hard to keep our overhead very low and therefore we are able to offer you the very best prices found anywhere, EVEN THE INTERNET!! If you do find a better price just bring us proof and we will either meet or beat it if possible!

All of our standard sized heirloom furniture comes with a manufacturers limited lifetime warranty against any defects in materials and workmanship. If anything should happen to your furniture we can carry it back to the very craftsman who made it and have it repaired to as good as new!

With beautiful works of art painstakingly shaped from select kiln-dried woods, gently finished in a three-step sanding process and carefully sealed with a varnish that’s practically impervious to water, nail polish remover and alcohol. NEVER will you find a piece of particle board or fiber board on any of our fine furniture.

Give Thanks Around a Table That Seats the Whole Family! November 2012

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Ashley & Jason

Ashley Elaine Parker to Jason Lynn Harris

September 8, 2012 Silvermoon on Broad

How They Met... Jason and Ashley met in November of 2011, through a mutual friend. They began messaging each other online and texting, until a few days later, when Ashley asked Jason if he would like to accompany her to a dinner party. On the night before Thanksgiving, their short dinner plans turned into a very long first date. They both knew there was some sort of special “spark” shared between them. It was only a few weeks later when the couple decided to date each other exclusively.

The Proposal... One night in February, Jason and Ashley were talking, and the conversation turned to marriage. They knew that they wanted to be with each other forever. Jason officially proposed to Ashley in May, exactly six months after they had first met.

Wedding Party... Maid of Honor: Haley Burleson Bridemaids: Holley Keeney Haylie Culberson Lauren Robinson Best Man: James Harris Groomsmen: Waylon Lewallen Ronnie Dooley Jr. Matthew Walker Photography: Meagan Grant – Tator Tots Photography Videographer: Eric Ethridge – Eric’s Xtreme Video Catering: Sheri Frachiseur – Sugar & Spice Catering Cake: Albertson’s Rings: Gordon’s Jewelers 60

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Greg B anks Jr. Greg Banks Jr. and Dyamond Robinson will unite in marriage on Friday, July, 5, 2013 in Texarkana, TX.

D yamond Robinson

Greg is a graduate of the Texas Culinary Academy and is currently employed with Eldorado Resort & Casino. In Shreveport. Dyamond is attending Texas A&M University - Texarkana majoring in Criminal Justice and is employed with Super One Foods.

November 2012

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Congratulations From:

Ross Heath

Sara Garrisson

ALT Magazine

November 2012

2 1 . 0 1 . 11

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Micah was really wonderful helping Ross design out the ring of my dreams. It was a wonderful surprise!â&#x20AC;? -Sara

Brianna & Chris

Brianna Louise Haynes to Christopher Lynn Lee

August 3, 2012 Apostolic Tabernacle United Pentecostal Church How They Met...

Floral & Photography: Judy Money-Roybal Cake: All in Good Taste Bakery Decor: Dot’s Rentals Bridesmaid Dresses: Cherryl Woodruff - Seamstress

Chris and Brianna have both been active members of the same church for ten years now. It was there where their lives crossed paths. In 2008, Chris had begun hanging out with Brianna and her sisters. After many road trips and many nights of laughter and tears shared with Brianna and her sisters, Chris and she became inseparable. They had become such close friends that Brianna even made the remark, “We are just friends, and that’s all we will ever be.” Looking back, Brianna says, “In early 2011 Chris’ friend tried to set him up with another girl. It was then that I realized I had thought of him as more than just my friend. After he went out with this girl, I didn’t answer his calls or texts. Mainly because I didn’t know how I was going to tell him how I really felt and admit I was a mad and maybe a little jealous. When I finally told him how I felt, it was just a few weeks before my birthday. Things began to get awkward between us until, on my birthday, he gave me a beautiful card that said everything he needed to say to me to steal my heart!

The Proposal... Brianna explains, “Chris has always kept me on my toes. I never know what to expect with him! On Monday, February 13, 2012, I went to school and then went to work as normal. When I got off work at around 11:15pm, Chris called and told me to come over and eat pizza and relax since I had a hard day. This was very unusual for him because he never just called me to come over that late at night. Without any thought, I went, because I really needed to get my mind off the crazy day of work that I had. When I arrived at his house, he was sitting in the back room eating pizza, so I joined him. At around 11:50pm, he walked into the kitchen and unbeknownst to me, he was setting up my Valentine’s presents and turning all the lights off. He came back to the room and sat a minute before asking if I heard something. I was completely lost as to what he was talking about. He told me to go check the door, but I was too scared! He got up and went back into the kitchen and I followed. As we made our way through the hallway, the song, “My Valentine,” began to play, which was the first song I had ever sang to him. When we made it to the kitchen he told me to look to the right, but I couldn’t see what he meant because it was dark. He then said, “Over there,” and he flashed a light onto the table. There sat a big teddy bear, a dozen beautiful red roses and a big card and balloons. I was so happy and was just smiling. Then I realized how late it was and told him I had to leave. He told me to wait just a minute. At 11:59pm, he walked me back into the hallway, where we had shared our first kiss, and he was wearing exactly what he had worn during that kiss. At 12:00am, on February 14, 2012, he got down on knee and said, “I thought of all the gifts that I could give you, and the best thing that I could give you is my heart. Brianna, will you marry me?” I told him to get up and stop playing. I just knew he was just playing a trick! I soon realized he wasn’t getting up, and he said, “I am serious. I want to spend the rest of my life with you.” At that moment, my heart stopped and tears of joy filled my eyes!”

Wedding Party... Best Man: Daniel Sams Groomsmen: Josh Harris Bennie Franklin Jason Barkley Matthew Corcoran Jr Groomsmen: Ryan Franklin Maids of Honor: Heather Haynes & Shannon Reed Bridesmaids: Susan Haynes Danielle Winters Elisa Bridges Jr Bridesmaid: Summer Swayze Miniature Groom: Landyn Sams Miniature Bride: Maddison Pfeifer Flower Girls: Sarah Pfeifer Winter Ketcham Autumn Swayze November 2012

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Diana & Pat Diana Rains to Pat Howard

September 8, 2012 The Wedding Chapel Hot Springs, AR How They Met... Each day, God works in mysterious ways, and in recognizing that fact, every morning one should awaken with an open heart to what the day will offer. On September 11, 2010, Diana Rains and Pat Howard had open hearts, ready to welcome new love. While attending the 2010 Annual Hot Springs Open Motorcycle Rally, Diana and Pat were introduced by a mutual friend, Jim, and his wife, Cheryl. The friends gathered together that Saturday night to attend the .38 Special concert, where Diana and Pat met again. Ironically, at a place called “Lucky’s,” Cheryl encouraged Diana to give Pat her phone number because they had several things in common, including being single parents and a passion for riding motorcycles. The following week, Pat called Diana for a date. Pat lived in West Monroe, Louisiana, and Diana lived in Hooks, Texas. A year of commuting for a long distance relationship proved they were meant to be together, and Pat made his move to Texas.

The Proposal... After two years as a couple, Pat realized that they had been the best years of his life, and on June 9, 2012, (Diana’s birthday) he bought a dozen roses and asked Diana to be his wife.

Wedding Party... Maid of Honor: Tammie Yates Best Man: Steve Mortimer

Photography: Jennifer Futrell Photography Coach Service: Iron Horse Coach Company Hot Springs, AR 64

ALT Magazine

November 2012

Diana and Pat discussed all types of wedding ideas and locations but finally decided to return to where it all began. They planned a small ceremony to be held at The Wedding Chapel in Hot Springs during the 2012 Motorcycle Rally. Diana and Pat’s wedding day began bright and sunny with a small group of friends gathered at the historic Arlington Hotel. After their first glance meeting, they awaited for the arrival of their “special transportation.” While finalizing the wedding plans, Pat surprised Diana with a special treat for their trip from the Arlington Hotel to the Wedding Chapel – a white carriage for two pulled by a Harley Davidson Motorcycle Trike from the Iron Horse Coach Company. In a joyful “cruising trip” down Central Avenue filled with honking horns and waving strangers wishing them well, Diana and Pat made their way to the Chapel for their outdoor garden ceremony. Surrounded by a larger group of family and special friends, Diana and Pat said their vows and started their life together. Departing the reception, Diana and Pat boarded their Harley Davidson 2012 Ultra Classic Limited for the remainder of the day cruising from event to event celebrating, ultimately ending the day where it began two years before at the Saturday night concert. This year, they saw Foreigner!

November 2012

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Kim & Josh

Kim Schooley to Josh Pinkham

August 18, 2012 Texarkana, AR

About the Couple... Kim is a nurse practitioner at Express Care, and Josh is a RN at St. Michael’s ER and an aspiring musician in a band called Recession Proof that plays locally and out of town. Photography: Sage Duke Photography Cakes & Catering: Silver Spoon Wedding Coordinator/Decorator: Linda Lollies Flowers & Decor: Belinda Brown - Perry’s Flowers Joy Terral - Joy’s Boutique Wedding Fashions: David’s Bridal (Women) Dillards (Men) Hair Stylists: Connie Pinkham & Morgan Brinkley - A Total Change Salon Raela Jo Perry - Style Studio Salon Make Up Artist: LaShun Cates, Mary Kay consultant

ALT Magazine

November 2012

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Stacie- Gastric Bypass and Tummy Tuck “I decided to pursue bariatric surgery as I began seeing my parents struggle with health problems as they aged. Not having any pre-morbidity factors at that time, I wanted to ensure that I kept it that way! The Gastric Bypass Dr. Frenzel preformed was amazing! I have lost 120 pounds and my BMI has fallen from 43 to 25 as a result!!! I followed the gastric bypass with a tummy tuck to remove excess skin from my abdomen and to create a smooth appearance in my clothing. The tummy tuck was my gift to myself as I approached the completion of my Ph.D. I will graduate with my doctorate degree in May of 2013 looking svelte and fine as I cross the stage. At 46, life is better than ever.”

Abram- Gastric Sleeve “I had a Gastric Sleeve procedure about one year ago. At that time I was about 320 pounds and had High Blood Pressure, Sleep Apnea and was a borderline Diabetic. I decided to change my life for the better and called Dr. Frenzel. After talking with him about my different options, I decided to go with the Gastric Sleeve. I have lost about 160 pounds and I no longer have High Blood Pressure, Sleep Apnea and am no longer at risk for Diabetes. I want to thank Dr. Frenzel because now I can do anything I want. I can go to amusement parks and sporting events and not have to worry about fitting into the seats. Everything in my life is easier now… Thank you, Dr. Frenzel, for changing my life.”

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by Anne Fruge

There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man. John 1:9 Upon stepping foot in Garrison Gardens, you will immediately notice the beauty of the land. The tall, strong oak trees and gurgling creeks are not inhibited by the twinkling lights and picturesque wood and glass reception hall; in fact, the natural and man-made elements entwine building the perfect backdrop for a place where dreams come true. However, the realization of the gardens was a goal that Chuck and Karen Guilbert knew was far beyond their own means and would depend on divine intervention. Chuck Guilbert grew up in a family that served and praised God. His father was a minister of the gospel and his older brother became a music minister. At one small-town revival, Chuck was asked to lead the worship. After that more doors began to open and God began revealing Chuck’s call to the ministry. He served in many area churches along with churches in Arkansas, Texas and Louisiana. He is currently the music minister at Highland Park Baptist Church, Texarkana, Texas. “My parents were amazing people who made the road so bright that it was easy to follow,” Chuck says. “I love my job, and I love serving people. I love seeing people develop their talents and gifts.” Chuck and Karen met in New Boston, Texas, and were married at First Baptist Church, New Boston. They have four children. Ashley Guilbert is a professional singer who sang and toured with Kirk Franklin for twelve years. She currently lives in Nashville, Tennessee, where she sings with Natalie Grant and Anthony Evans for various events. Heith Guilbert is married to Jessica and they have three children. He is the worship leader at East Bayou Baptist Church in Lafayette, Louisiana. Breanne Bradshaw is married to Colby. 68

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November 2012

They have two children and Breanne works for CASA in Texarkana. Brennan Guilbert is currently pursing a music career in Nashville, Tennessee. Karen stayed home with the children when they were young. When the children all became school aged, she worked part time in the music office and as the church wedding coordinator for Trinity Baptist Church for several years. About 13 years ago, Chuck and Karen felt God calling

them to do more with their life. “We wanted to do something our kids would know was beyond our ability,” Chuck says. “We knew that the Lord would have to do it. The gardens are more than just a way to make money; they are making a statement that here is what the Lord can do.” Chuck and Karen felt God leading them to build a wedding venue, but they had no idea where to put it. They looked at old buildings in the Texarkana area, but it wasn’t until a four-wheeler ride through nearby land in Genoa that Chuck knew where the gardens would be located. “I just stopped and looked at how incredible the land lay, with deep ravines, spring fed creeks and towering oaks trees, and I knew this was the place,” Chuck says. “Many people who visit the gardens say they feel like they are in north Arkansas. It is such a peaceful place. At this spot, two creeks that have been running at least 85 years meet, and couples get married next to this junction every weekend.” At the time, Chuck did not own the land and did not have the resources to buy it, but he met with the owner of the land anyway. He spoke to the owner and at that time found out the land was not for sale. “My heart sank,“ Chuck says, “As we continued to talk I noticed a picture of his little girl in a pageant and casually told him my daughter was Miss Texarkana in 1997. He looked at me with a puzzled look on his face and asked me if my daughter was Ashley. He informed me that his daughter loved and looked up to Ashley and followed everything she did.” At that point the whole attitude of the conversation changed, and by the time Chuck left the office, the owner was

willing to sell the land. Unfortunately, this did not solve Chuck’s problem of not being able to afford the down payment. “I was talking to one of my good friends, Harold Johns, on the phone and he said, ‘Chuck, this is going to be your retirement,’ and it hit me,” Chuck says. “I borrowed the money against my retirement, which I didn’t even know was possible, and bought the land. It was a miracle considering it wasn’t even for sale. This was a strong confirmation from the Lord and there were many more to come.” There was another piece of land the Guilbert’s needed to purchase for the garden’s parking lot and to make sure the gardens was isolated. “One day I was riding my horse through this property and I remember asking the Lord to give me the land and to be honest I felt a little silly knowing that financially there was no way,” Chuck says. “But after several miracles, every obstacle was turned into opportunity and the land became property of Garrison Gardens. And to even make it better, the county needed a road through the property in order for school buses to get through. Now there is a nice county road going straight to the gardens. We serve an amazing God!” “Every time we walked out here we

imagined the place filled with happy people celebrating these momentous times in their lives, I knew that God wanted this beautiful land to be seen and enjoyed,” Chuck says. However, Chuck and Karen went several years where there were no developments, and they almost gave up hope. “One Sunday afternoon, we were almost convinced that we needed to give up, and my wife was flipping through the newspaper,” Chuck says. “She read an advertisement for a Thomas Kinkade plate, and the words on the plate said, “Believe all things are possible with God,’” Mark 10:27. On the plate was a picture of a small chapel in the woods. We knew we had to keep trusting that this was what God wanted.” Reassured that their original vision was a part of God’s plan, Chuck and Karen were again discouraged when they thought their dream had to come to an end after a local church where Chuck had served for 18 years, called a new pastor, and many of the staff were asked to resign. “We were praying and asking God, ‘What is going on?’” Chuck says. “But, soon after this, a good friend asked us to provide her with figures for how much it would take to get the gardens operational. We knew it would be a great deal of money, and thought

that she would change her mind once she saw the bottom line, but instead, she graciously let us borrow the money from her at a very low interest rate.” They started working on the construction of the gardens in July 2009 and had their first wedding on the grounds in March 2010. The gardens hosted 21 weddings in 2010, 27 in 2011 and by the end of this year, the gardens will have been the site of 40 weddings for 2012. The name Garrison Gardens is a homage to Chuck and Karen’s first grandson, Garrison, who only lived seven weeks. “We wanted to honor Garrison’s memory and the short life we had with him by naming a living, breathing gardens after him,” Chuck explains. Now Chuck and Karen work every day on the land and the venue. They have plans to expand and add new features while keeping the natural beauty and flow of the land, and they are excited about how God will use the place that started as only a hope and a prayer 13 years ago. “We feel blessed every day to be a part of these amazing moments in people’s lives,” Chuck says. “It goes to show you that if God places a dream in your heart, He can accomplish it.”

November 2012

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Lyndsay & Marshall Lyndsay Phillips to Marshall Craig

July 21, 2012 Northwood Presbyterian Church

How They Met... Marshall and Lyndsay actually knew each other for many years before dating. Marshall grew up in Texarkana and graduated from Pleasant Grove in 2000, and then from the University of Arkansas in 2004. Lyndsay also grew up in Texarkana and graduated from Pleasant Grove in 1998, and the University of Arkansas in 2002. Lyndsay explains, “We were always friends with the same group of people, but we didn’t start dating until the early part of 2009. After running into each other during Christmas of 2008, we kept in touch over email and eventually began dating early the next year. At the time, Marshall was living in Little Rock and I was living in Dallas. It wasn’t long before we both realized that we were 100% meant for each other, and Marshall made the move to Dallas.”

The Proposal... Remembering the proposal, Lyndsay says, “In early 2012, Marshall planned a weekend for us in Fort Worth and gave me the greatest surprise ever when he proposed! We had the most wonderful wedding with our friends and family in July, and we recently relocated to Texarkana for my job with Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals. Marshall was able to move from the Dallas office to the Texarkana location of Vertical Alliance Group. We recently closed on our first home together and are so excited to begin our lives together and raise our future children in the same wonderful place where we grew up!”

Wedding Party... Maid of Honor: Taylor Calfee, Sister of bride Best Man: Larry VanMeter, Stepfather of groom House Party: Hope Taylor

Florist: Sticks & Stones

Ushers: David Craig Daniel Craig 70

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Photography: Sage Duke Photography

Wedding Cake: Silver spoon November 2012

Catering: Jackie and David James -Albert’s Meat Co Reception Venue: Silver moon on broad

Phone: 903.793.6711 Fax: 903.793.2008

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Weddings Special Occasions “Just Because” 3501 Texas Blvd. Texarkana, TX 75503 www.ruthsflowers.net November 2012

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Ross Heath

S ara Garrison Mr. & Mrs. Miles Garrison of Atlanta, TX are pleased to announce the engagement and approaching marriage of their daughter, Sara Elizabeth, to Ross Morriss Heath, son of Ben and Carla Heath of Douglassville, TX and Debbie Heath and Jimmy Pierce of Atlanta, TX. The future bride is the granddaughter of the late, Mary Sue and J.B. Garrison of Waskom, TX and the late Barbara and Jody Britt of Mt. Pleasant, TX. Sara is a 2005 graduate of Queen City High School and a 2010 graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University where she received a Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree in Agricultural Business. She is currently employed with Farm Credit Services of Western Arkansas in Texarkana. The prospective groom is the grandson of Verba Heath and the late Morriss Heath of Douglassville, TX and Bryan Holtzclaw, Sr. of Hughson, CA. and the late Carolyn Ann Pierce of Atlanta, TX. Ross is a 2003 graduate of Atlanta High School. He joined the U.S. Marine Corp in 2005 where he earned the rank of Corporal and served two tours of duty in Iraq. He is currently the owner of ArkLaTex Greenhouses in Bivins, TX. The wedding will take place on November 10, 2012 at Ramage Farms in Hooks, TX. Following their nuptials, the couple will reside in Bivins, TX.

Congratulations From:

Victoria Brooks

Boomer Daugherty

November 2012

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A r k - L a - Te x Resource Guide Air and Heating Central Air 450 S. Kings Highway Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.1212

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

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

Krause Service Company, Inc. 200 Industrial Blvd. Nash, TX 903.831.3912

Gayle’s 4059 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0056

Texar Federal Credit Union Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.223.5626

Apartments Arista Apartments 3515 Arista Blvd. Texarkana, TX 903.255.7869

Automobile Service/Tires Cooper Service 5320 N. State Line Texarkana, TX 870.772.6971

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

Discount Wheel & Tire 3223A Summerhill Road Texarkana, TX 903.793.0887 406 Loop 59 Atlanta, TX 903-796-6777 4807 W. 7th St. Texarkana, TX 903.832.0408

Texarkana First Bank 3601 East 9th St. Texarkana, AR 870.772.0222 615 Sam Houston Dr. New Boston, TX 3625 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.793.6955

Richmond Oaks Apartments 2815 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.832.6150 Summerhill Woods Apartments 4501 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.793.7888 Westwood Apartments 101 Redwater Rd. Wake Village, TX 903.832.8446 74

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November 2012

Banks Peoples State Bank 5600 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.838.2300

Wells Fargo Bank 3615 E. 9th St. Texarkana, TX 903.838.1187 1301 Arkansas Blvd. Texarkana, AR 903.223.1545 2900 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.223.3516

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

Innovative Concepts Flawless Execution Exceeding Expectations Every Time

Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354 Reception Arts Becky Risinger Ashdown, AR 870.898.5273 Caterers/Private Chef Big Jake’s BBQ 2610 New Boston Rd. Texarkana, TX 903-793-1169 1521 Arkansas Blvd. Texarkana, AR 870-774-0099 Big Jake’s BBQ (Continued) 603 W. Commerce Hope, AR 870-777-1000 170 N. Constitution Ave. Ashdown, AR 870-898-2227 Culinary Creations Pam Elliott 903.831.4674

The only thing you need to worry about is not tripping on your train.

Deborah Ann Mason Certified Wedding Consultant

870.779.4838 Wedding and Event Planning

Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354 Sugar & Spice Catering Shari Frachiseur 903.276.4389 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 Church Highland Park Baptist Church 2401 Hazel St. Texarkana, TX 903.792.6996

November 2012

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Clothing Abby Gayle’s 4012 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0088 Gayle’s 4059 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0056 College/University Southern Arkansas University Magnolia, AR www.saumag.edu Texarkana College 2500 N. Robison Road Texarkana, TX 903.823.3456 www.texarkanacollege.edu

Dry Cleaning Holiday Cleaners Locations throughout Texarkana Area 870.773.4072 Electrical Services Mr. Electric 903.838.0161 Entertainment CableOne 855-692-4121 Legendary Shooting Sports 925 Brower Lane Texarkana, TX 903.334.9605 Texarkana Symphony Orchestra 903.792-4992 Tickets 870.773.3401

Silvermoon on Broad West Broad at Texas Blvd. Texarkana, TX Special Events on the Boulevard 2101 Texas Blvd. Texarkana, TX 75501 903.794.2101 Texarkana Convention Center Crossroads Busines Park Texarkana, AR 870.216.2000 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

Texas A&M University-Texarkana 7101 University Avenue Texarkana, TX www.tamut.edu

TRAHC 321 W. 4th Texarkana, Texas 903.792.4992

Dental/Endodontics Texarkana Endodontics, PA Jason Michel, DDS 1826 Galleria Oaks Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.793.7411

Event Locations Garrison Gardens Texarkana, AR 71854 870.773.0275

Fitness Centers Anytime Fitness Richmond Road 3415 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.794.5348

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

Florists Ruth’s Flowers 3501 Texas Bllvd. Texarkana, TX

Come Visit Us Next To Bryce’s!

www.poppopshoppe.com

903.793.0209

1.866.209.4553

Homemade Fudge Gift Boxes & Tins Gourmet Snacks 76

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November 2012

903.793.6711 www.ruthsflowers.net Unique Flowers 4801 Loop 245 Texarkana, AR 870-774.1300 Funeral Home Texarkana Funeral Home 4801 Loop 245 Texarkana, AR 870.774.1200 3515 Texas Blvd. Texarkana, TX 903.794.1200 Chapelwood Funeral Home 1015 N. Kings Highway Nash, TX 903.838.5300 Furniture Oak Creek Furniture 8024 West 7th St. Texarkana, TX 903.832.0793 Gifts Dotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

Hotels Best Western Texarkana Inn & Suites 5219 Crossroads Parkway Texarkana, AR 870.774.1534

Serendipity Salon of Texarkana 4308 Texas Boulevard Texarkana, TX 903.255.0554

Clarion Lacross Hotel 5100 N. Stateline Ave. Texarkana, AR 870.774.3521 www.lacrosse-hotel.com

Style Studio Lisa Harris 3201 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.1719 Hospitals Christus St. Michael Health System 2600 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.614.1000

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

Health South Rehabilitation 515 West 12th St. Texarkana, TX 903.793.0088

Hilton Garden Inn and Texarkana Convention Center 2910 S. Cowhorn Creek Loop Texarkana, Texas 903.792.1065

Wadley Regional Medical Center 1000 Pine St. Texarkana, TX 903.798.8000

Holiday Inn Express & Suites 4545 Cowhorn Creek Road Texarkana, TX 903.223.0008

November 2012

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TownePlace Suites by Marriott 5020 North Cowhorn Creek Texarkana, TX 903.334.8800

Crocker’s Jewelers 3117 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.832.8686

Insurance Farm Bureau Insurance 4413 Morris Lane Texarkana, TX 903.838.8707 911 W. US Highway 82 New Boston, TX 903.628.3451

Micah’s Jewelers 2812 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 903.735.2336

Greg Cockerell State Farm Insurance 4807 Texas Blvd. Texarkana, TX 75503 903.793.7502 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

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 Medical Supplies ArTex Medical 3101 Kennedy Lane, Suite 1000 Texarkana, TX 800.794.2859 Photographer Image Forward Photography 200 Heather Dr. Texarkana, TX 75501 903.334.9605

Pet Grooming Georgia’s Pet Salon & Boutique 101 Slaton Nash, Texas 903.223.8223 Physicians Advanced Bariatrics 1939 Morres Lane Texarkana, TX 75503 Beauty and Wellness Center Dr. David Whitten 5303 Cowhorn Creek Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.908.2885 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 Texarkana Gastroenterology Consultants and the Endoscopy Center of Texarkana 1920 Moores Lane Texarkana, TX 903.793.8030 903.791.8657 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

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November 2012

Impact Realty Cody Sandone 1200 N. Kings Hwy., Ste 104 Nash, TX 903.276.7565 Teresa Liepman Remax 5120 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 75503 903.276.9464 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 Special Events on the Boulevard 2101 Texas Blvd. Texarkana, TX 75501 903.794.2101

Hopkins Icehouse Downtown Texarkana, AR Corner of 3rd and Wood 870.774.3333

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

Ironwood Grill 4312 Morris Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.4644

Shorty’s Donuts 2729 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.6686

TEXAS-SIZE SAVINGS Refer A Friend For A Chance To Win! Quarterly drawings for $500. See agent for details. NEW BOSTON 903.628.3451 TEXARKANA 903.838.8707 Coverage and discounts are subject to qualifications and policy terms, and may vary by situation. ©2012 Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Companies.

Restaurants Big Jake’s BBQ 2610 New Boston Rd. Texarkana, TX 903-793-1169 1521 Arkansas Blvd. Texarkana, AR 870-774-0099 603 W. Commerce Hope, AR 870-777-1000 170 N. Constitution Ave. Ashdown, AR 870-898-2227 Coldstone Creamery 4228 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.838.2653 Dairy Queen Locations throughout ArkLa-Tex Fish Creek 1514 Arkansas Blvd. Texarkana, AR 870.223.0595 Gusano’s Chicago Style Pizzeria 2820 Richmond Road, Texarkana, Texas 903.792.8646

November 2012

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Tasty Donuts 1443 N. Kings Highway Nash, TX 903.838.0422 Wendy’s 4201 Stateline Avenue Texarkana, TX 2902 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 1615 N. Hervey Hope, AR 124 N. Loop Highway 59 Atlanta, TX Wingstop 2700 Richmond Road, Suite 14A1 Texarkana, TX 903.255.0090 4501 N. State Line, No. 106 Texarkana, TX 903.792.9464 Retirement/Assisted Living Home The Magnolia 4205 Richmond Meadows Texarkana, TX 75503 903.838.7319 Winfield Estates 3535 South Lake Drive Texarkana, TX 903.792.1062

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November 2012

Roofing Aqua Roofing Anthony Jewell 3523 Locust Texarkana, AR 903.244.5706 Spas/Salons Salon Visage Esthetique Mary Ann Robbins 4506 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.794.4007 Ultrasound Services 4D Peanut Gallery Texarkana, AR 870.779.7688 Wedding Attire Bridal Castle 3209 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.838.3886 Wedding Coordinators Abracadabra Wedding and Event Planning Debra Mason, Event Coordinator 903.748.4838 damason@cableone.net

Heather Kiser Wedding Coordinator 903.314.1582 Wedding Favors Pop Pop Shoppe 2011 Mall Drive, Suite B Texarkana, TX 903.793.0209 Wedding Planners Abracadabra Wedding and Event Planning Debra Mason, Event Coordinator 903.748.4838 damason@cableone.net Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Locations Ironwood Grill 4312 Morris Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.4644 Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354 Silvermoon on Broad West Broad at Texas Blvd. Texarkana, TX

Now OPEN OuR sTORy begAn in 1940. TOdAy, we sTART A new chApTeR. The new el chico is now open in Texarkana. sip a margarita or cerveza at the bar. savor slowroasted brisket Tacos or enchiladas rolled by hand. Taste sizzling Fajitas with fresh, hot tortillas. experience the tradition, great food made the old fashioned way. Just for you. Visit & enjoy.

420 Realtor Rd Texarkana, Arkansas 71854

870-779-0300 www.elchico.com Let us cater your holiday celebration!

DINE-IN OR CARRY-OUT Open 7 days a week 11am til Midnight™ 903.255.0090

903.792.WING(9464)

2700 Richmond RoadSuite 14A1

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On the corner of N.State Line and Texas Blvd

Wings Ma de Fresh to Order, Never Pre-Cooke d!

Boneless Strips Gliders

Call the Wing Experts! Or Order On-Line at www.wingstop.com

MILD ORIGINAL HOT ATOMIC CAJUN HAWAIIAN TERIYAKI GARLIC PARMESAN LEMON PEPPER LOUISIANA RUB HICKORY SMOKED BBQ

Calling All Military Veterans An unknown song writer once wrote these words: “A veteran is a man or woman who at one point in their life wrote a blank check payable up to and including their life.” The check was payable to the people of the United States of America and to make sure we were not understood we took an oath that said “I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic…” Now, we have fought our wars against foreign enemies, but we still have that blank check and that oath that we have never given up. I am therefore calling on my comrades in arms and fellow veterans to go into battle again and defend our nation and our Constitution on the political battlefield. There are over 21 million veterans in this country and this election is another fight that we must win if we are to see our nation survive. We have a President of the United States who is openly hostile to the Constitution. He has stated that if Congress does not pass the legislation he wants he will do it by issuing executive orders, and he continuously does just that despite the fact that it violates the Constitution. He is destroying the balance of power that is one of the mainstays of our Constitution. When you combine that with the fact that he has appointed some 45 Czars without the required approval of the Senate, gone to war in Libya without Congressional approval, and signaled that he is planning to sign and implement United Nations treaties without submitting them to the Senate for ratification, it is clear that he is establishing a de facto dictatorship. I have posted many articles on this blog detailing the Obama administration’s all out assault on individual liberties in this county, particularly those enshrined in the Bill of Rights. Whether you look at freedom of speech and religion, the right to keep and bear arms, the right to due process of law, or any of our other basic rights, the President seems intent on restricting them or abolishing them all together. In addition, Obama has put us in a position where our nation is no longer respected around the world. He continues to apologize to our enemies and ignore or insult our friends. He still refuses to acknowledge the dangers of radical Islam and Sharia law and is putting the safety of every American at risk. We all know that the murder of 13 soldiers at Fort Hood was not workplace violence, but an act of terrorism, and the murder of our Ambassador and three other brave Americans in Libya on 9/11 was not a spontaneous reaction to a video on You Tube. It’s time that we let the President know that we are not stupid. As veterans, we must also be aware of what is happening to our military. Obama is cutting the size of our military and stopping the production of the weapons and equipment needed by our personnel to effectively defend us and stay alive while doing so. He is stripping the military of a key component for many of its members, their faith in God. He sees political correctness as more important than giving our men and women in the service the same freedom of religion that they are fighting to defend. Now, we are learning that under Obamacare the President is mandating that our military members, veterans and their families pay much more for their medical care. However, civilian employees of the Department of Defense who happen to be union members will not see any increase in their costs for the same benefits. As I have watched the progression of the Obama Presidency it has become clear that his agenda is not what I took an oath to protect. I did not take an oath of allegiance to defend socialism, or any other form of dictatorship, and I certainly did not take an oath to take away the Constitutional rights of my fellow Americans. Obama took the same type of oath I did, but he seems to have no problem violating it. I cannot and will not accept that. Therefore, I am calling on my fellow veterans to join me in stepping up to the plate once again, and not only voting to retire Obama on November 6, 2012 and to retire members of the House and Senate who do not support the Constitution, but to get other Veterans to do the same. If we lose this time we may never have another chance. Paid Advertisement

-Michael Connelly

EVENT

Parker and Hanna Crider Grand Opening 1.2.3. Ben David and Susan Whitten Brent Russell Carmony and David

Beauty Wellness Center WHERE

WHEN

10/15/12

ALT Magazine

Whitten 4. Brent and Christine Carmony 5. Kim Harbin, Kirk Keller, Darla Cigainero, Teri Sloan and Stephanie Ryan 6. Carl Conley and Judy Freeman 7. Susan Whitten and Charlie McMurphy 8. Dusty and Holly Hickerson 9. Susan Whitten and Debbie Brower 10. Jeff Brown and Charlie McMurphy 11. Brent Russell Carmony, Dusty and Holly Hickerson 12. Jeff Brown and Mel Walsh 13. Misc. Photo 14. Rhonda Porcaro and Holly Hickerson 15. Sherrie Browning and Betty Browning 16. Norman Whitten and Kay Poster 17. Kellie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neal and Ashley Traweek 18. Ken Burks and Parker Burks 19. Sherell Murphy and Sherry Goodloe 20. Sherrie Davison and Britany Anders 21. Connon Ball and Victoria Ellefritz 22. Rhonda and Joe Porcaro 23. - 28. Misc. Photos

November 2012

TX Lic # TACLA001315C AR Lic # HVACR100733 AR Lic # MP5292 TX Lic # M-19804

Only Factory Authorized Carrier Dealer in the Area!

Mike Carter, President

Why Buy From an Authorized Dealer? 100% Satisfaction Guarantee! All Technichians NATE Certified!

Carrier GreenSpeed Intelligence Enables Units to Deliver Highest Heating Efficiency Rating of Any Air Source Heat Pump on the Market 450 South Kings Highway Texarkana, TX 75501

903.832.1212

dmcarter@central-air.com

Introducing our meltiest, cheesiest cheeseburger yet! November 2012

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Pink Out Event EVENT

WHERE First Bank Richmond Rd. WHEN 10/12/12

1. Mark Misseldine 2. Vickie and Bryant Guillot 3. Genie Clem, Jessica Spink and Terrica Kirk 4. Margaret Ranson and Linda Cox 5. Mark Misseldine, Terrica Kirk and Neassie Faucette 6. Charlie McMurphy and Mark Misseldine 7. Misc. Photo of table decor 8. Johnny Estes, George Carpenter and Nathan Harris

Modern Vibe

Sinatra-Style Jazz Big Band with a

The Vintage 15 is a 15-piece swing big band who puts a fresh, new twist on the classic jazz standards of Frank Sinatra, Michael BublĂŠ, Ella Fitzgerald, and many more. We can also provide ceremony music, smooth jazz combos for dinner or cocktail hour, DJ services, on-stage lighting, and MC services.

www.vintage15.com thevintage15@gmail.com

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Miss The Vintage 15 in Texarkana at the 2013 Phantom Ball! January 12, 2013 - Northridge Country Club 86

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November 2012

The

10th Annual

HANTOM ALL Featuring Big Band Music by: January 12, 2013

Northridge Country Club Sinatra-Style Jazz Big Band with a Modern Vibe

In 1952, Dr. S. A. Collom and a gathering of Texarkana citizens founded the “Texarkana Crippled Children Society” in response to the polio epidemic which was sweeping across our nation. Since that time, the Temple Center, an Easter Seals affiliate, has evolved and expanded into a premier facility providing physical, occupational and speech therapy for children and adults with disabilities. On Saturday, January 12, 2013, the Temple Center will be celebrating the tenth annual Phantom Ball at Northridge Country Club. This is an annual gala event benefiting the client services of Temple Memorial Rehabilitation Center. This year’s Phantom Ball will honor a very special person from our community as the “Phantom”. The criterion for “Phantom” is one who gives generously of their time and financial support to the Temple Center and the community of Texarkana. As in the spirit of “Phantom”, the identity of this year’s honoree will not be revealed at this time, in order to build suspense and intrigue for our event.

For more information or tickets please call Anita Carver at 903-794-2705. Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are available. Silent auction item donations are appreciated. Cocktail attire (cocktail dresses and suits), black tie optional (ballgowns and formal attire). Masks and fans are encouraged.

Temple Memorial Rehabilitation Center 903-794-2705 1315 Walnut Street, Texarkana, TX www.east-texas.easterseals.com

November 2012

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Women for Arts

EVENT

WHERE

TRAHC

WHEN

10/16/12

ALT Magazine

1. Claudia Snow and Rhonda Allen 2. Sara Barnett, Olivia Taylor, Charlotte Nyman and Jo Anne Bunn 3. Nancy King and Amanda Horton 4. LeAnne Wright, Diane James and Chris Terry 5. Stacy Mayo, Heather Thomson and Megan Menefee 6. Gloria Mugno and Amanda Albright 7. Becky McWilliams, Nita Craytor and Patsy Morriss 8. Jon Purifoy and LeAnne Wright 9. Heather Lybrand, Jenny Mitchell and Ellen Brennon 10. Suzy Heath and Barbara McCash 11. Judy Jones and Robin Proctor 12. Claudia Snow, Peggy Loe and Rhonda Allen 13. Barbara McCash and Mary Fore 14. Amanda Horton and Melanie Gloster 15. President WFA Victoria Smith, Brian Goesl and Annell Landgon 16. Sally Patton and June Hatchet 17. Sandra Warren and Genia Bullock 18. Carolyn Allen and Mel Walsh 19. Betty Grace, Linda Grace and Nona Culpepper 20. Brian Goesl and Mary Jane Orr 21. Diane Green, Junie Young and Joyce Varner 22. B. G. Yocom Coulter and Wanda Brown Hiebert 23. Judge Sherry Hawkins, Sarah Meredith and Becky Phillips 24. Wanda Ingram, June Hatchet and Nona Culpepper 25. - 26. Misc. Photos

November 2012

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www.alt-mag.com

EVENT

Green Egg Fest

1. Hunter Cunningham, Jack Shellogg, Patricia and Cade Cunningham 2. Jimmie and Lena Guillot 3. Ron and Veronica Stovall 4. Hope Hyde, Denisa Schultz and Heather Barron 5. Marjean Freeman, John Browning and Mary Fore 6. Teresa Raney and Shelby Raney 7. James and Jennifer Smallwood 8. Brad Smith, Kim Dobbs and Savannah Lishman 9. Randy Faulkinbury and Dot Williford 10. Cliff , Mallori and Sheena Guillot 11. Shawn and Leigh Latchford, Jaime and Darin Hefner 12. Patsy LaRue, Mallorie Whisenhunt, Chloe Campbell, Marcie Whisenhunt and Emily Campbell 13. Clint Wright

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10/6/12

ALT Magazine

November 2012

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EVENT WHERE WHEN

Jeans and Bling Rammage Farms 9/13/12

ALT Magazine

1. Howard Morris and Eliane Lindsey 2. Lisa Cossy and Carol Collins 3. Jesse and Fredia Plant 4. Pete and Claudia Snow 5. Ken and Gwenn Schnipper 6. Melody and Mario Garcia 7. Tammy and Dr. James Ward 8. Ray and Stephanie Escamilla, Caroline and Mike Craven 9. Robin and Sue Beck, Nancy and Ken King, Gordon and Rhonda Allen 10. Sherry Grygotis, Jim and Brenda Rochelle and Bob Grygotis 11. Diana James, Stacy Mayo and David James 12. Ann Nicholas and Ernest Pender 13. Peggy and Vince Senatore 14. Yolanda and Tommy Thomas 15. Susan Likins and Lindsey Pilgreen 16. Erin Duke, Detra McCarver, Monica Robertson and Dr. Cindy Porter 17. Juanita Roberson, Cynthia Mullens and Kent Wills 18. Scott and Sharon Megason, Robin Cope and Jonathan Schermerhorn 19. Dugan Ward, Katie Goza, Diane and Robert Goza and Mike Ingram 20. Robbi Bevington, Nikki White and Yolanda Thomas 21. Anette Kilker and Fred Downs 22. Ray Escamilla, Fredia and Jesse Plant, Mike Craven and Stephanie Escamilla 23. Bob Rochelle and Leslie Watson 24. Armando and Charly Hernandez 25. Bix and Adrienne Rathburn, Mignon Hervey and Charles Sidock 26. Kyle and Brandy Davis, Jennifer and Nick Newton, Bart and Andy Craytor 27. Glen and Lova Wile 28. Split Decision Band 29. Misc. Photo of Dance contestants

November 2012

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November 2012

www.alt-mag.com

United Way Kick Off

EVENT

WHERE

Silvermoon On Broad

WHEN

10/5/12

ALT Magazine

1. Allen and Shelby Brown 2. Larry Davis and Annette Perry 3. Pastor Preston Greenwaldt and Mary Wormington 4. Debbie Brower and Mary Wormington 5. Senator Steve Harrelson and Mike Cherry 6. Judge Josh Morriss and Debbie Brower 7. Nancy Keenan, The Duck, Mary Wormington and Shawn Vaughn 8. Brenda Rochelle and Joanna Pridgen 9. Molly Teague, Mark Bledsoe, Steve Morriss, Mike Cherry, Megan Morriss and Nathan Morriss 10. Jimmy â&#x20AC;&#x153;Smittyâ&#x20AC;? Smith and Lisa Kern 11. Mayor Wayne Smith, Shelby Brown, Mayor Bob Bruggeman and Mary Wormington 12. Heather Lybrand, Norman Helmstetler and Ellen Brennan 13. Roy Woods, Jimmy Bristow and Buddy Shepard 14. John Davis, Korey Keith, James Bramlett and Keith Laing 15. Amy Schulz, Christina Papa and Pam White 16. Julie and John Harrison with Jennifer Meyer 17. Dr. Robert Jones and Anna Fuentes 18. Patricia Cunningham, Homer and Debbie Brower 19. Renea Booker, Cheryl Gildon, Jill Whittington and Lisa Sangalli 20. Mayor Wayne Smith, Mike Cherry, Senator Steve Harrelson and Mayor Bob Bruggeman 21. Mayor Wayne Smith, Shelby and Allen Brown and Mayor Bob Bruggeman 22. United Way Board

November 2012

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Taste Of Texarkana

EVENT

WHERE Four States Fair Grounds WHEN 10/16/12

ALT Magazine

1. Chris, Laura and Tanner Ross 2. Lisa Rowe and Will Williams 3. Kevin Leyva and Maria Leyva 4. Nicole Elam 5. Danielle Brigham and Traci Waller 6. Moises and Martha Rea 7. SuAn Boles, Jeff Prieskorn, Brad Davis and Robin Hidalgo 8. Rosie Benson, Stephanie Benson, Shelly Wells, Cynthia Williams, The Fabulous Wade Crouse, Renea Booker, Cheryl Gildon, Lance Gildon. Front row: Spencer Wells 9. Marcus King, Bo Rester, Andi Darby and Lamond Edwards 10. Bobby and Jo Thomason 11. Patsy Raney, Shantel Poindexter, Marquisha Jackson 12. Amanda Horton 13. Brandon Cogburn, Jill Whittington and Gayla Dove 14. Dawna Rogers and Michael “Jimi” Hendrix 15. Valerie and Tony Colvin 16. Dawna Rogers, Michael “Jimi” Hendrix, Valerie and Tony Colvin 17. Annie Fahrni, Lynn Anderson, Michelle Vaughn and Velvet Cool 18. Julie and Tim O’Neal 19. The West Family 20. Doug Sloan, Patrick Lovejoy, Denny Taylor and Kaden McLean 21. Quiana Gulley, Murphycia Rose, Ahyanna Gulley and Aaliyah Carson 22. Ms. D. and Coco

November 2012

23. Katy Burns, Beverly Glanville, Matt Palmer, Lance Steed and Cody Eaves 24. Betty Nix and Wanda Sangalli 25. Katie Schwartz, Rachael Schwartz and Hannah Schwartz 26. Lisa Rowe and Nicole Elam 27. Moises and Martha Rea, Tavo Cruz, Ivan and Teresa Leyva 28. Julieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Deli Crew 29. Zury Rodriguez, Tavo Cruz, Coco Morales and Tony Rodriguez 30. Mike Covert, Nicole Elam and Chad Crowl 31. Derrick and Gay Durrant 32. Nathelma Taylor, Bertie Fuller, Debbie Nicholas, Terri Gurley and Carter Adams 33. Rozana Page and Nicole Elam 34. J. Ellis and Lance Goodwin 35. Michala Terrell, Juliana Terrell, Vince Senatore and Sara Senatore 36. Misc. Photo 37. - 38. Misc. Photo

38 November 2012

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November 2012

St. Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Duck Paddle

EVENT

WHERE WHEN

Spring Lake Park 10/6/12

1. The Duck 2. Arkansas Razorback and Homer Dancing 3. Bob Bruggeman holds up a Duck 4. Deborah Beasley, Megan Menefee, Dr. Betty Feir and Mike Hargrave 5. Lindola Griffin, Barry Bryant and Mike Riley 6. The Duck and Shannon Nix 7. President of Friends of the Foundation Trish Reed and Susan Landreaux 8. Eric Cain and Brad Davis 9. Barbara Brown and Mark Whitfield 10. Louie the Leopard, Klondike the Health Care Bear, BlueAnn Ewe and Bo the Bulldog 11. Andi Darby, Trish Redd, Mimi Mc Daniel and Ranger Danger 12. Jeff Easterling, Mario Garcia and Aaron Onair 13. Susan Landreaux and Jason Michel 14. Dr. Cindy Porter and Debbie Brower 15. Bo the Bulldog, Klondike the Health Care Bear, Mario Garcia and The Duck are Dancing 3

November 2012

www.alt-mag.com

Find us on

Dear Valued Investor: In the past, the month of October has given investors a scare. This year, it is the election that comes right after Halloween that could turn into a trick or a treat for investors as Washington policymakers debate the fiscal cliff. The 2013 headwinds, often referred to as the “fiscal cliff,” comprised of both tax increases and spending cuts are due to go into effect on January 1, 2013 and total over $500 billion, or 3 – 4%, of the U.S.’s economy. While that may not sound like much, the United States has never experienced a drag of more than 2% of the economy that did not result in a sharp decline in the economy and the stock market. These tax increases and spending cuts for 2013 are already in the law and would need to be changed to be less of an economic drag. If not, a return to recession may be looming in 2013. There is only a ghost of a chance that the fiscal cliff gets resolved before the elections. However, the so-called “lame duck” session that takes place between the November 6 elections and the end of the year holds some promise for getting a deal done. Most polls, including the LPL Financial Research “Wall Street” Election Poll*, point to the status quo in the White House and the Senate as a high probability outcome for these elections. Although there would be no change in control, holding the White House and the Senate given the sluggish, zombie-like economy could be considered a victory for the Democrats, and to top it off, the Republican’s majority in the House may shrink. If this happens, a deal in the lame duck session to mitigate the fiscal cliff would probably be reached, but it would likely be closer to the victorious Democrat’s terms which primarily consist of higher tax rates. Alternatively, the election is bound to be close and if the shift in momentum that began with Romney’s debate performance continues, there is the potential for a Republican sweep of the White House and Congress. If so, Washington goes from being gridlocked to unlocked and a deal in the lame duck session, or early next year, that extends the Bush tax cuts would be likely. There is always the haunting possibility that Congress fails to craft

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

a deal in the lame duck session and the United States goes over the fiscal cliff into the darkness of a recession. However, we find this outcome relatively unlikely as Washington has a lot of experience in kicking the can down the road to avoid short-term pain and will likely find an eventual compromise. The more likely risk to the markets is what Congress may do in the lame duck session on the way to this eventual compromise. We only have to look at the negotiations around the debt ceiling increase in August 2011 to see how bad the process of negotiations can be for the markets. Back then, we ultimately got the eventual compromise of an increase in the debt ceiling, but not without a 13% stock market decline in a week and Standard & Poor’s lowering the U.S.’s tripleAAA credit rating. The elections will influence the direction of the negotiations, but it may be the journey — not the destination — on the way to the deal to mitigate the fiscal cliff that has the most potential to spook the 8 markets and contribute to volatility in the coming months. We believe a deal will be forthcoming, but only after the elections can we expect Washington to begin to attack this monster. As always, if you have questions, I encourage you to contact your advisor. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult me prior to investing. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. The economic forecasts set forth in the presentation may not develop as predicted and there can be no guarantee that strategies promoted will be successful. * To track what the market has priced in for the Democrats’ odds of retaining the White House and Senate, we have taken the Democrats index and divided it by the Republicans index. An upward sloping line suggests the market may be pricing in a rising likelihood of the Democrats retaining the White House and their majority in the Senate, while a downward sloping line suggests improving prospects for the Republicans. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index is a capitalization-weighted index of 500 stocks designed to measure performance of the broad domestic economy through changes in the aggregate market value of 500 stocks representing all major industries. An obligation rated ‘AAA’ has the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor’s. The obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is extremely strong. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax, legal or investment planning advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor. This research material has been prepared by LPL Financial. To the extent you are receiving investment advice from a separately registered independent investment advisor, please note that LPL Financial is not an affiliate of and makes no representation with respect to such entity. Not FDIC/NCUA Insured | Not Bank/Credit Union Guaranteed | May Lose Value Not Guaranteed by any Government Agency | Not a Bank/Credit Union Deposit eventual compromise of an increase in the debt ceiling, but not without a 13% stock market decline in a week and Standard & Poor’s lowering the U.S.’s triple-AAA credit rating.

Tune In to Classic Hits or Classic Country! November 2012

www.alt-mag.com 101

Wadley Ribbon Cutting

EVENT

WHERE Jefferson Ave. & Trinity Blvd. WHEN

10/2/12

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1. Wadley Ground Breaking 2. Stacy Tidwell, Zach Norment and Molly Teague 3. Frank Coleman and Charlotte Hartwell 4. Lori Yates, Micki Wright and Elaine Chriestenson 5. Mayor Wayne Smith, Shelby Brown and Steve Harrelson 6. Gwen Adams, Genia Bullock, Susan Bishop and Diane Green 7. Officer Kittiele Stewart, Chief Bob Harrison and Officer Kristi Mitchell 8. Nolan Smith, Jason Clanton. Cliff Guillot 9. Buddy and Carolyn Allen, Diane and Curt Green 10. Allen Brown, Cari Brown and Rusty Cotten 11. Mark Lingle, Patricia Cunningham and Teresa Powell 12. Patricia Schilling, Carrie Trusty, Christal Browning and Darren Crabbe 13. Denise Jackson, Dr. Brian Matthews and Sandy Taucher McQuerrey 14. Randy Thomas, Chief Bobby Honea, Chief Bob Harrison, David Fletcher, Dr. Bob Fry and Dr. Matt Young 15. Bart Vance, Dr. Brian Matthews, Tom Gilbert and Leann Rogers 16. and 17. Misc. Ground Breaking

November 2012

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True Beauty Fall Fashion Show

EVENT

WHERE WHEN

Silvermoon on Broad

9/22/12

”True Beauty” is a group of girls who are focused on letting their true beauty shine. In October they created works of art and passing them out to residents of a local nursing home. In November they will be collecting gift items for children in need to give to their parents as Christmas gifts and used toys for parents to give to their children. The “True Beauty” Fashion show is a chance for the girls to model fashions from area boutiques while sharing the message that “True Beauty” is inside every girl.” Every girl participating shared a scripture or inspirational quote about what true beauty meant to them. Every girl also received a crown & sash. The crown is to serve as a reminder that every girl is a princess because her Father is the King of Kings.

1. Gabrialla McCoy being crowned by Jessica Haas 2. Leah Linnett & Jessica Haas 3. Bethany Hirmer modeling for June Bug’s 4. Alyssa Gilbert & Miss Texarkana 2012 Jessica Haas 5. Macey Crow 6. Alyssa Bandsma modeling for ZgCFashions 7. Faith Bandsma modeling for 2 Sprouts 8. Kaitlyn Patterson modeling for Small Town Girl Clothier 9. Madison Welch & Jessica Haas 10. Karadyn Alamond, Jessica Haas (Miss Texarkana 2012) & Kaitlyn Roden 11. Chaselyn Young, Jessica Haas & Kaleigh Bartlett 12. Front row left to right- Sydney King, Tommie Lea, Bryleigh Meredith, Chesney Meredith, Leah Linnett, Rebekah Hickey, Miss Texarkana 2012 Jessica Haas, Madison Alred, Gracy Greenwood, Gabby McCoy, Kaitlyn Patterson, Lexie Sullivan Second Row- Faith Bandsma, Allie Helms, Ella Roberts, Madison Welch Third Row -l to r Kaitlyn Roden, Meagan McGuire, Lilly Spears, Alyssa Bandsma, Karadyn Alamond Back row-Alyssa Gilbert, Morgan Dodson, Macey Crow, Bethany Hirmer, Alyssia Greenwood

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November 2012

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www.alt-mag.com 105

Pink Ladies Fashion Show

EVENT

WHERE

Silvermoon

WHEN

10/6/12

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1. Erica Cain and Joni Hodges with Georgia 2. Joe and Christine Amos, with MoMo and Georgia 3. Joni Hodges, Christine Amos and Georgia 4. Summer Nelson and LeAnne Wright 5. Christi Thornton, Faye Davis and Kim Jones 6. Ashley Deramcy and Jakayla Harper 7. Brenda Litchfield and Opal Nelson 8. Helen McElveen, Amy Smith and Michelle Pierce 9. Copper Road Band - Jon Raymond and Brandon Hadrick 10. Dana Morton, Theresa Endsley and Autumn Nottingham 11. Mary Quinn, Amy Smith, Joni Hodges, Micki Hadaway and Autumn Drake 12 Joni Hodges and Helen McElveen 13. Angie Bui and Melissa Massey 14. Jon Cool and Erica Cain 15. Brandon Hadrick, Jon Raymond, Joni Hodges and Cameron Lindsey 16. - 19. Misc. Photos: Pink Ladies Fashion Show

November 2012

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The Texarkana Humane Society is a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to re-homing orphaned animals, promoting the human-animal bond, preventing animal cruelty, educating children and adults about responsible pet ownership and preventing pet overpopulation. In order to reduce the number of unwanted animals and the euthanization of them at the shelter people need to spay/neuter their pets. The Texarkana Humane Society has a program to help individuals do this and urge everyone to get involved and tell your neighbor, family, and friends to be responsible and do their part in putting a stop to this problem here in our city. Have them contact us regarding our program. Call 903 8386334 and we will be glad to help you.

Texarkana Humane Society

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

Our goal is to place these animals in permanent homes with responsible, loving pet owners. All of our services are provided through private donations from our community. Donations are accepted and needed! Our animal friends appreciate you and your donations are tax deductible! (The Humane Society is all volunteers and all money goes towards the animals.) We’ve got a full house! Please come visit us! You might find the addition your family has been looking for! Do you have an animal that needs a new home? Please don’t neglect it! Call us and let us help you find a foster home. We will list your animal on our Facebook page at no charge. Let us help! For more information, contact Sherrie Thompson, President, at 903.838.6334, or go to www. texarkanahumanesociety.com. We’re also on Facebook!

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

1. Born to be wild! This little 7 pound senior maltipoo is a sweetheart. Casper is neutered, housetrained, heartworm negative, current on shots and chipped. He loves to play and run on his leash. Age is just a number. For more info on this handsome guy call Diana 903-838-4965. 2. Sam is a 55 pound, handsome boxer mix. He is neutered, fully vetted and on heart and flea/tick prevention. He is also housetrained. This boy is such a lover. He is well behaved, gets along with other dogs, kids and would be a wonderful addition to any family. For more info on him call Sherrie at 903-838-6334. 3. Frank is a handsome Cattahoula/Border Collie

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3 mix. He is neutered, current on shots, microchipped and on heartworm prevention. This fella loves kids, gets along great with other dogs and would be a great addition to any family. If you are interested in Frank call Cindy at 903-832-3085. 4. If you want a lap full of love Feather is the one. She is a Pom mix weighing around 12 pounds. She is 1 1/2 years old, spayed, current on shots, on heartworm/flea prevention and microchipped. Miss Feather will not be getting any bigger. She gets along with other dogs and cats. If you want a furever friend, she’s the one. Call Diana at 903838-4965. 5. Holly is a beautiful Mastiff/Boxer mix around

a year old. She has been fully vetted, current on shots and on heartworm/flea prevention. She is also microchipped and housetrained. Holly has come out of her shyness and loves people, kids and other dogs. She only barks when she has good reason. Contact Susan at 903-244-4524 for more information. 6. The buzz is PJ is looking for his furever home. This little fella only weighs 8 pounds. He is a 7 month old Pie Bald Daschund, neutered, current on shots, chipped and on heartworm/flea prevention. He walks well on a leash and never meets a stranger. This one is a real honey. For more info call Diana at 903-838-4965.

1. Benji is a male Schnauzer and is 1-2 years old. He’s an active dog and loves to play. He’s been at the shelter since August and would love to be a part of your family! 2. Breana is a Pit/Boxer mix. She loves to love on people. She’s been at the shelter since August. 3. Brent is a male playful Terrier mix. He is ready for a family to call his own. He’s been at the shelter since August.

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.

4. Cayla is a sweet, shy female Chihuahua mix. She’s about a year old and weighs about 5 lbs. She’s been at the shelter since October of last year. 5. Chance is a male Labrador mix. He is fuzzy, fun and cuddly! 6. Duke is a male Catahoula Leopard Dog. He is a very loving little boy and needs to find a family who will give

8. Jaden is a male Catahoula Leopard Dog. He is very friendly and loves to run around. 9. Old Dan is a male Hound. He is a great hunting dog and very loving. Old Dan has been at the shelter since August. 10. Sassy is a female Chihuahua mix. She is calm, cuddlie and shy. She’s been at the shleter since September. 11. Rusty is a male Terrier mix. He loves to run and play. He’s been at the shelter since August. 12. Sonny is a male Hound mix. He loves to cuddle and play.

Who else can help?

them the love he deserves. 7. Hobo is a male Chihuahua mix. He’s active and loves to play. He’s been at the shelter since August.

He’s been at the shelter since August. 13. Sophie is a female Collie mix. She is very loving and loves to cuddle! She has been at the shelter since August. 14. Stella is a female Heeler mix. She is very friendly and playfu and has been waiting at the shelter since September. 15. Tyson is a male Bocer mix. He has been at the shelter since August waiting on someone to come make him a part of their family.

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

Artex Animal Welfare, Inc. (mostly horses) 903.824.1990 Three Rivers Animal Rescue 903.490.4048 Poodle Patch & Friends poodlepatch@yahoo.com Passion for Pooches (mostly small dogs) 903.832.8632 Texarkana Animal League 877.525.4825 Texarkana Reptile and Amphibian Rescue 903.809.3761

Want to help but can’t adopt?

1. What a happy crew. ShyAnn has a new forever with the Blair family. Don’t think she will be so shy any more. Thanks Blair Family! 2. It is always a great feeling when you meet a good person to adopt your foster animal after you have put so much love, time and effor t into it. It makes it easier to let go. Here is foster parent, Diana, with Kevin, who adopted Mina. Courtesy of the Texarkana Humane Society

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.

Happy Tails!

November 2012

www.alt-mag.com 109

November November 3

Veritas Classic TOGA TROT 5k/10k will be the 3rd Annual Veritas Classic Toga Trot 5k/10k in downtown Texarkana, USA. 8:00 AM TO 10:30 AM. We encourage participants and spectators to come in their Togas and watch the fun. Veritas Academy is a K-12 Classical Christian School that is located in Texarkana, AR. We want to provide a fun time for Texarkana residents while we bring people downtown and help people learn about our school. Registration will begin at 7am. Race will begin and end at Kidtopia Park but will be run on both the Texas and Arkansas sides at Kidtopia Park 201 Oak Street For more Information 903.278.9077

November 6

Taste of Home Cooking School. The 2nd annual exhibitors with products and services related to home cooking cooking demonstrations product giveaway 4:00 PM TO 10:00 PM at Four States Fairgrounds 3700 E. 50th Texarkana, AR 71854 For more Information 903.244.4282

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Calendar of Events

November 10

Satisfaction *Dates/show times are subject to change. Perot Theatre Series tickets on sale to TRAHC members, June 29th; General Public, July 13th. Perot Theatre Series tickets must be purchased by phone through the Perot Theatre Box Office at 903.792.4992 at 7:30 PM

November 22

Day

November 10

the annual â&#x20AC;&#x153;Veterans Day Paradeâ&#x20AC;? this year on Saturday, it will start at 11:00 am at east Broad and Hazel streets. all area organizations, clubs, schools, churches, and businesses, etc., are invited to participate. For more information please contact Gregory Beck 870.773.8279 call either or 870.773.1078 or e-mail: usmcgreg@ aol.com to be included in the line-up.

November 15-18

Mistletoe Fair at Four States Fair Inc Loop 245 & East 50th St. Texarkana, AR 71854 For more Information 903.792.7191

December 1

Friends of the Library in New Boston, Texas, will host WORD FEST. This new event will show you the world of words in current hobbies and professions, such as blogging, songwriting, public speaking, and writing novels. Meet and learn from local publisher Shari Parker, local blogger and songwriter, Sherri Mayo, 15 local and regional authors and 10 other word professionals. Will also feature the giveaway of the Friends current fundraising item, a Kindle Fire HD. at New Boston Public Library, 127 N. Ellis 10am-3pm. For more information, Contact Kathy Collvins at 903.278.4203

Bill Spradlin Realtor 903-748-3186

Tracy Spradlin Broker 903-748-2477

Jan Williams Realtor 903-277-5771

Cody Sandone Realtor 903-276-7565

Karyn Baucum Justin Sandone Realtor Realtor 903-701-6721 903-278-3836

Jessica Snow Realtor 903-293-9183

Stephanie Maddox

Realtor 903-223-0710

Buying? Selling? We Can Help!

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

www.impactrealtyonline.com

1200 N. Kings Hwy., Suite 104, Nash, TX 75569 117 N.E. Front New Boston, TX 75569

www.6201brookhollow.z57websites.com

www.7109bringleridge.z57websites.com

This home is Exquisite. One of the most Magnificent Luxury Homes in the area. The amenities in this home are superb. Game Room, Media Room, Exercise Room, in ground pool, butlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

Gorgeous Custom 4 BR home in PG situated on two beautifully landscaped lots. Spacious living areas with high ceilings and beautiful woodwork. Large game room, master suite with Jacuzzi tub and ceramic tile shower. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to miss this one!

www.31briarwood.z57websites.com

Beautiful two story home featuring Four Bedroom, Three Baths, Two living areas, formal dining and breakfast area. Gas log fireplace in family room, fabulous master suite with ceramic tile shower and jetted tub. Large landscaped yard with sprinkler system and covered patio. This is a must see..

www.5316-5318gallopingway.z57websites. com.showcase.z57.com

www.1427mc118.z57websites.com

Pleasant Grove two sets of duplexes for sale. Each have three bedroom, two baths, 1225 sq ft per unit. Call for details.

Breathtaking Hilltop Home featuring 4 BR, 3 BA, and 2 living areas on 160 acres. Amenities are too numerous to list. You need to see this home to believe it.

www.109oakview.z57websites.com

www.1270beaverlakedr.z57websites.com

C DU

www.5803winchester.z57websites.com

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. www.6606palisadestexarkana. z57websites.com

3 BR, 2 BA with tons of extras! Features include custom paint and textures, a spacious kitchen. Master suite with, a jacuzzi tub, a walk-in shower, new carpet in the bedrooms, ceramic tile in kitchen and dining area, The custom finishes and attention to detail make this house stand out from the rest!

www.impactrealtyonline.com billsprad@aol.com spradlintd@aol.com

Wonderful 4 bedroom home in Redwater ISD. Excellent condition and ready for you to move in!

Beautifully nestled in the back of Beaver Lake Estates this 4 BR 2.5 BA home offers fantastic outdoor space for entertaining. Relax in your in own in ground pool!

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

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CONVENTIONAL

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FhA

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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

112

ALT Magazine

November 2012

5120 Summerhill Rd Texarkana, TX 75503

Office: 903-794-5250 Toll Free: 866-473-1953 Preferred

Focus on Classic Styling that Transcends Time. Floorplans for every family, with average yards to sprawling acreage. These listings have something for everyone. www.6507skyline.com

3 Acre Lake Estate. Over 6,000 Sq. Ft. heated, and offers 4 living areas and a recently rennovated master with its own balcony! Rich woodwork and Mexican tile inside, and the serene lake out back insures a perfect Staycation for life! Your spacious and inviting game room will become a party hot-spot, and it is the perfect usable space for a growing family! Room to add a pool! This home is built to last!

www.5121McNattLane.com

www.6TrendyRidge.com

This Arkansas Beauty has 5 full acres of Park like setting, and is still in the city Limits. Newer home, city utiltities, low taxes and great neighbors! Separate Guest Bedroom just off kitchen and Open Living arrangement, with all eyes on the backyard area. Additional pad for the addition of a shop or extra garage.

Colonial Classic with fabulous style and finish work, added to a popular location, north of I-30. Yard turf is like a golf course and yes we have sprinklers. A Bonus area can be finished out for an extra 1200 sq ft. Large family kitchen with cabinets galore and hardwood flooring are just some of the many great features here.

www.722w27thSt.com

www.7Tamar.com

Wonderfully designed and executed, this one needs to be on your list! Classic Styling with all Viking Appliances and the Hardwood Floors will make you swoon. Backyard fit for a Wedding or any entertaining. Elegant Crown Molding and Brick Walks make this one a Treasure!

Immaculate and Stylish, this 4 Bedroom takes the Cake! Pool, Deck and close to PG Schools, in the Heart of Northern Texarkana, you will be glad to get home sweet home.

903.276.9464 cell

teresasoldit@hotmail.com www.TeresaLiepman.com Water Springs Ranch is a Christian-based Organization that shelters, clothes, educates and Loves Children that have no place to go. It is my pledge to donate to these children, on behalf of my clients, with each home sold. You will note the Watersprings Ranch Rider on each one of my signs. - Teresa

BOULEVARD

Mortgage Group “Making 1019 North Kings Hwy Nash, TX 75569 903-334-REFI (7334)

BIG Dreams Come True.”

217 W 2nd Street STE 211 Little Rock, AR 72201 501-812-LOAN (5626)

109 Cedar Bend Abilene, TX 79602 325-754-8227

201 S 20th St Suite 6 Rogers, AR 72758 479-636-4512

4141 Blue Lake Circle 240A Dallas, TX 75244 972-638-REFI

100% Financing Available* FHA, VA, Conventional, & Rural Development Loans Fast Approvals Quick and Easy Refinancing Reverse Mortgages Available Non-Owner Occupied Investment Property * Availability subject to borrower and property eligibility

Something To Be Thankful For!

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Billy Whitt

NMLS #139306

903.334.REFI (7334) www.thebmgllc.com

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Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s No Place Like Home... when it comes to helping our patients!

November is National Home Care Month. HealthSouth Home Care

cares for your rehabilitation needs in the comforts of your home. Our team works one on one with patients, providing convenient scheduling, experienced specialists and state-of-the-art therapies to reach goals for stronger independence. Learn more about our Home Health program by calling (903) 735-5070.