ALT Magazine April 2016

C heryl Scale s “STROKE? WHAT STROKE?”

April 2016 | Vol. 10, Issue 4

ARTS INTEGRATION PROGRAM Jen n a W i l l i a m s o n A. C.T.

2016 Heros

Health Issue S U RV IV ING B RE A ST CA NC E R

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PUBLISHER Debbie Brower EDITOR Amy Jones ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jaclyn Gooding

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PHOTOGRAPHY Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Sylvia Jennings, Studio 5A, Amy Jones FEATURE WRITERS Debbie Brower, Anne Fruge Granado, Brittny Ray Crowell

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mike Brower, Dustin Stringer, Crystal Sanders, Brian Goesl, Ann Nicholas

GRAPHIC DESIGN Amber Mason, Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Amy Jones, Cindy Shirley

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Fo r a d v e r t i s i n g i n f o r m a t i o n , c a l l 9 0 3 . 3 3 4 . 9 6 0 5 6

ALT Magazine|April 2016

From the Publisher

DEBBIE BROWER Springtime…I love all the sunshine we have been having. It’s convertible weather and not only do I love it, but all of my dogs love riding in the car with the top down – especially my Bogey! (You know, my mid-life crisis car that I’ve always dreamed of!) Bogey is my car riding baby. He puts his head up above the windshield and loves the wind blowing his ears!

Spring brings on lots of great things – but a lot of them are bad for many people. Health issues abound during the spring, when our cars and driveways turn yellow with pollen. This issue highlights health issues. I was so excited when Cheryl Scales agreed to share her story with us. She has been a friend for many years and I was shocked when I learned that she had had a stroke. Her story is one of courage and the belief that God is greater than all of us. He has a plan. There are so many times that we all wish we knew what that was.

The plan for the Christian Warriors is becoming more and more evident – get a group of Christians together for the good of our community and God blesses them. Micah Harp is one of the best young men I have the pleasure of knowing.

With a little bit of encouragement, a lot of faith in our Lord, and many great friends, the Christian Warriors is now thriving. This group is certainly making an impact for Jesus throughout the community.

As this magazine is being delivered, we are preparing for the 2nd annual Fur Ball, which is on April 2nd at Silvermoon on Broad. My heart and my extra time is spent helping our furry friends. I don’t know how anyone can make it through life without having a pet they love meet them at the door. They love unconditionally. It breaks my heart to see an animal that has been abused – and there are so many that are. I just don’t understand people. What I do understand is the effort of so many to nurse them back to health and find great homes for them. I applaud those who open their homes to foster these broken babies. They bring life back to their eyes, and love and hope back to so many.

Take care of yourself, your family and your furry friends this spring! I’ll be taking mine along for a ride…in my convertible! Weather permitting, of course!

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From the Editor

AMY JONES Story of the Month

KINDNESS Travis Bishop, the kids, and I went to Tractor Supply Co. this morning [Feb. 22nd]. While he was checking out I was at the front with the kids while they looked at the toys. He left his credit card in the car so he had to run and get it.

Meanwhile, two other people checked out. When Travis ran back in the cashier handed him his receipt and said it had been taken care of. I wasn’t even paying attention because I was watching the kids. We were so shocked. Especially since it was $100 worth of stuff. We were able to catch the lady outside and I almost had no words. I told her that God would bless her for her act of kindness.

Of course my husband joked and said, “Man! I should have got more stuff!”

Haha, but seriously that made our day!

What a selfless act of kindness!!

Posted by: Anni Fletcher Bishop

We believe there are some really great people who do good things for the citizens of this community. ALT Magazine is searching for your stories!

Please post the good things people have done, whether you knew the person or not! We want to feature these amazing stories each month and talk about the people who are making a difference.

HOW TO SUBMIT: Join our group on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/ randomactsofkindnesstexarkana.

Stories submitted to our page will be used at random. If you story is chosen we will contact you.

This month we’re talking about health and more specifically, being mindful of health risks and knowing your body. If I’ve learned anything over the last month, it’s to be open and honest about what’s going on and not to hesitate in getting help.

Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon to hear that someone you know has cancer.

This March, it really hit home for me. This was the first time someone close to me was diagnosed with kidney cancer. When something like this happens, it feels like your whole world just stops. Your priorities change, your mind set changes, and you try to do anything you can to make it better. There was nothing I could do except be there. Of course I prayed all day, everyday. I cried, I talked about it and I hoped.

Over the last five years, my friend had seen multiple doctors who kept misdiagnosing him. They would say he was in pain because of old sports injuries or that he had a kidney infection. They would give him pain medication and antibiotics and send him on his way even though he would come back with the same symptoms once a month. He would run fever for about a week every month and experience pain on his side. He had given up hope and just accepted that he was going to live like this for the rest of his life. And then the pain started to get worse.

The tables finally started to turn when he decided to get his family involved.

Together, they found a new doctor and a nurse who got to the bottom of the problem. He had scans done and that’s when they found the tumor. He had his biopsy about a week later and then was referred to a specialist in Little Rock for surgery.

Fortunately for my friend, his tumor was removed recently and is now recovering and doing great. The process of getting here has been long and overwhelming. If you are struggling with something or know someone who is, don’t give up! There is a light at the end of this tunnel.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help and never give up on yourself!

Amy Jones P.S. My first two months working at ALT Magazine have been amazing! Mostly because of my boss and publisher, Debbie.

She has shown me what its like to feel extremely valued and appreciated. I actually enjoy my workweek more than my weekends now. Could it be partially be because I come to work everyday and get attacked with kisses from rescue dogs?

Probably so!

My first rescue, Amos!

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ALT Magazine|April 2016

HEALTH ISSUE

Written by: Anne Fruge Granado

BE HEALTHY “STROKE? WHAT STROKE?”: A Story About Cheryl Scales

“Lord, am I having a stroke?”

This was the only thought in Cheryl Scales’ mind as she watched her right arm begin to shake uncontrollably and right side of her face start to go numb.

It was the first realization that several, seemingly unrelated symptoms were, in fact, part of a much larger problem.

This is where Cheryl’s “stroke story” starts, but to truly understand Cheryl’s story, her unwavering faith, her optimistic personality, her bright spirit, her fierce love of family, and her reaction to this momentous event in her life, we need to go back much further.

Cheryl is an “army brat.” She is one of seven siblings. She grew up in Austin, Texas; Okinawa, Japan; and El Paso, Texas. Instilled with a love of travel and an appreciation of different cultures, Cheryl has always identified herself as a “people person.” The first question I asked her was how she would describe herself in three words; she used 9. She asked her friends at Fellowship Bible Church to help her and the list they created included: passionate, love people, optimistic, faithful, creative, encourager, leader, fun. In the hours that we talked, it was obvious the list was true. However, one thing only became apparent as we continued to visit: Cheryl has a hard time accepting help from others because she likes to serve others.

This strong, vibrant woman is used to being a mother, a nurse, a wife, a friend, a prayer warrior. She is not used to being on the receiving end of care, and yet, that is exactly what this stroke did for Cheryl. She was forced to slow down and truly experience the love of her family, friends, church family, colleagues and her savior.

Along with her eclectic personality, Cheryl also has an eclectic 12

ALT Magazine|April 2016

spiritual background. She is a JewishChristian that was raised Roman Catholic. She did not even find out that her mother had hidden their Jewish heritage until 1998. “I am passionate about the Lord,” Cheryl says. “In fact, I decided I wanted to share this story because I wanted to give God the glory. Though I’m sure that’s strange to say about me having a stroke, it’s true. I don’t believe that God causes bad things to happen to us, I think he lets them happen for His glory and our good. God chose to heal me, and I’m humbled by that.

There is so much He has taught me, and I’m still learning.”

Cheryl graduated from nursing school at University of Texas in El Paso. She cut her teeth at the county hospital working in high risk labor and delivery, and then she moved to Dallas with some of her girlfriends. She eventually found herself running the labor and delivery unit at Baylor Hospital in Dallas. “I love my job. I love helping people. I love bringing life into the world,” Cheryl says. “I love taking care of the baby and mother. There is something so beautiful in witnessing someone take their first breath.”

Cheryl enjoyed the fast-pace environment and being able to conduct the flow in her unit. Then, Cheryl met a young Ob-gyn resident, James A. Scales, M.D. They moved and got married in Nacogdoches, Texas, where Cheryl helped James set up and run his practice. After that, they moved to Sherman, Texas, and once again Cheryl helped James establish his practice. In 2002, James was recruited to St. Michael’s in Texarkana, and in 2004 they moved out to the country in Ashdown where they live today. It was then that Cheryl was

able to take a step back from active nursing and focus on raising their five kids.

Both Cheryl and James enjoy sharing God’s love through mission work. Cheryl traveled with CRU to Jordan and Israel pre-9/11, and they have both done work in Cuba through East West Ministries. They joined Fellowship Bible Church in Texarkana in 2002 where the “first thing that hit them was love.”

Looking back on the last few years, Cheryl can see life-events that were adding stressors in various ways. For example, Cheryl decided to go back to work in 2013 at St. Michael’s labor and delivery department. Her daughter, Sarah, left for college. She dealt with an empty nest after the constant rush of having kids at home. She started working on night shift. Then, four years ago Cheryl was helping the woman who cleaned her house with checking her blood sugar and decided to try it out on herself. Her brother, Gary, was a diabetic and passed away at only 52. Cheryl’s father was also a diabetic and had passed away a year ago. “Deep down, I think I always knew I was a diabetic, but it all seemed normal to me. Of course I am tired, I’m a mom. Of course I grab a snack in the carpool line at 3:30,” Cheryl says, “But, sure enough, the numbers were high. I told her not to tell my husband while I wrapped my head around it, but she ended up telling James my numbers, but he thought they were my dad’s. When he found out they were mine, he said, ‘Cheryl,

ALT HEALTH CARE

you can seize on me.’ I said, ‘I know, I will go to the doctor tomorrow.’”

By the time Cheryl called the doctor the next day, James had already talked to Dr. Bingham and Dr. Kathleen Martin. They wanted to put her in the hospital that night, but as many medical professionals, Cheryl was resistant to seeking

dismay, it was high. She had never had blood pressure issues before.

Then, on Wednesday, September 16, 2015, Cheryl started having a horrible headache. Ironically, at a doctor’s house, there wasn’t any Tylenol, so she drove to Brookshires in Ashdown.

While she was there she decided to take her blood pressure. It was still high, but she had cancelled her appointment that day because she didn’t feel good, however, remembers being fine Thursday, September 17, and remembers going to work on Friday,

medical care.

They insisted and she told them she would visit them the next day.

Cheryl’s life was changed at that moment when she was diagnosed as an insulin dependent diabetic.

During the summer in 2015, Cheryl’s stressors continued.

Her father’s recent death had taken a toll on her mother. Cheryl had to go home to El Paso to take care of her and this weighed heavily on her mind. Once she got back to work on day shift, she was joking around with her colleagues and decided to take her friend Sharon’s blood pressure and everyone decided to take their own. To her ALT-Mag.com|April 2016

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September 18. She was doing great.

Then, on Saturday, September 19, Cheryl scrubbed in on a c-section with Dr. Thompson. The c-section went well and the baby was fine. But Cheryl had noticed that during the case, her arm was shaking a bit. Her first thought: “Man, I need to work out more.” Cheryl didn’t want anyone to notice, so she continued as normal and brushed it off. The patient was taken to recovery, and Cheryl started walking down the hallway towards the nurses station. She had admitted to Amy, a colleague, that she didn’t feel well. She noticed her right arm started to look like it was having it’s own seizure. It was shaking uncontrollably, and she was starting to feel “funny” on her right side, her face was tingling and numb, she was “feeling weird.”

Then, “Lord, am I having a stroke?”

She had to decide if she was going to stop at the nurse’s station and finally admit what was going on. “I’m very good about helping everyone else, but I really don’t like to be doted on in that way,” Cheryl says. “It’s hard for me to

accept help from other people, but I knew I had to say something.”

Alerted to the fact that something was wrong, Dr. Thompson made Cheryl stick out her tongue, smile and push into her hands. At that time, it didn’t seem like Cheryl was having a stroke, but her blood pressure was 177 over 110 and her colleagues made Cheryl go lay down in an open room near the nurse’s station. Cheryl begged them not to call her husband because he was scheduled to be on-call that night, but as the minutes ticked on, Cheryl could tell she was getting worse. She found herself wanting to tell someone, but she didn’t want to feel like a “bother.”

She wished she wasn’t in this situation and could play it off, but she also didn’t want to feel alone. Twenty minutes later when Dr. Thompson came in and asked Cheryl to squeeze her hands, Cheryl’s right hand could not do it. Cheryl couldn’t push her right foot, even though she was willing the foot to obey, and Dr. Thompson made the executive decision to send Cheryl

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to the emergency room. Still combative, Cheryl insisted she didn’t need to go; she definitely did not need a wheelchair. But as she reluctantly stood up to get into the obligatory wheelchair, her leg gave way. “In the ER, I couldn’t fill out the papers. Thank goodness a colleague, Laura Jackson, stayed with me,” Cheryl says. “I kept telling her not to leave me, but then I would tell her that I was fine. I wanted to run out of that ER.”

It wasn’t until later that Cheryl was able to put together the full story of what happened afterward. For example, she didn’t know that Dr. Thompson had also kept her word not to “call” her husband, but she definitely texted him. Even though James rarely carried a cell phone while doing yard work, he providentially happened to have his that day, and he immediately left for the hospital.

In the emergency room, the staff began to ask her questions and perform neuro tests. When they asked her what month it was, Cheryl turned to Laura and said, “What month is

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ALT Magazine|April 2016

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this?” Moments later, Cheryl realized they were wheeling her into the Trauma 1 room and all Cheryl could think was, “I must be really in trouble.” She doesn’t know how she got from the wheelchair to the table. She doesn’t know how they got her clothes off or a catheter in or two IVs in place. All she knows is that in minutes it seemed like there were 20 people in the room and things were moving quickly. “I just want to say ‘Wow,’ when I look back on those moments. St. Michael’s ER stroke team is excellent, excellent, excellent at what they do,” Cheryl says.

Feeling vulnerable, Cheryl kept asking about James and was informed he was on his way. In the meantime, Cheryl remembers so many doctors doing neuro tests, so many faces asking her questions, keeping her talking, making her look at them, telling her she was going to be ok. They wanted to know what time the first symptoms began and Cheryl told them 10:30, when the baby was born. The time was important because there is a three hour

window for stroke patients to receive tPA, or a tissue plasminogen activator.

This medication, administered by IV, is an extremely strong clot-dissolving medication. When giving a tPA, there is about a 45% chance nothing will happen, a 45% chance that it will help and a 10% chance that you could develop a brain bleed and suffer extreme brain damage. By the time James arrived, Cheryl could no longer touch her nose or lift her right leg. She couldn’t pass any of the basic neuro tests, and she was losing her vision and hearing. The next step was making a big decision about administering the tPA. “Technology these days is so cool. The doctors communicated with other neuro doctors across the country. I even Skyped with a neurologist in Cleveland. I went through all the tests over again for each doctor. Each doctor scored me and decided I was a good candidate for the tPA, but it was still up to me and James,” Cheryl says. “In that moment, the reality of dying hit me. I wanted to call my son, Steven, and tell him that I loved him

and to take care of his siblings. I just knew that I couldn’t make the final decision. I could feel it getting worse. My tongue was thick, and I could barely move it.”

James turned to the other doctors and asked, “If it was your wife, what would you do?” They affirmed the decision to go with the tPA. All Cheryl could remember was a warmth spreading throughout her body after the tPA was administered. Her face immediately started getting better, and she was given the “million dollar workup.” She was taken for CAT scans, an MRI, dye scans, an echo gram, and an echo cardio gram. She says, “You name it, I got it.” In the midst of all of the hustle, Cheryl remembers having a quiet moment with her husband. “It was really sweet in all of this to have this memory of me and James talking.

I made him call my brother and sister to tell them what was going on and ask them to pray. I asked him to call my friend, Marji, and let her spread the word to pray. I knew I needed the medication, but I knew I needed

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prayer more,” Cheryl says. “I’d seen James cry when his sister died and his dad died, but I’d never seen him break down the way he did. I said to him, ‘Honey, it will be ok. I’d hug you, but I can’t move.’ It broke the ice and we laughed a little.”

While they awaited the test results, they expected to see a large bleed on the CAT scan reading, but it wasn’t showing up like they thought.

“That’s how I knew the Lord took care of me,” Cheryl says. “Medicine is God’s mercy on an unbelieving world.”

After she was stable, they moved Cheryl to the ICU at St. Michaels. Cheryl’s healing went really fast until it reached a plateau; she eventually regained feeling in her arm but still had none in her right leg.

However, Cheryl remained optimistic.

Though Cheryl told them not to worry, both her daughters, Sarah and Jeanet came to see her. Photos from the hospital show Cheryl in her signature red lipstick, smiling for the camera

with the people who came by to see her. Her chosen hashtags: #healinggrace #strokewhatstroke.

For the first time in a long time, Cheryl was forced to rely on the help of others. “It was really weird having to rely on someone to help me move. It really helped me see things from a different perspective, and I think I will be a more compassionate nurse because of it. It’s just different when you are the one in the hospital bed,” Cheryl says.

Cheryl also began to wonder if she would ever walk again and regaining the reflexes and quick reactions that her job demands. However, God had a different plan. For a while, Cheryl was the one being ministered to.

Her friends, family, and colleagues reached out to show Cheryl love.

“People I didn’t even expect to come see me, came by, and that was such a neat thing. One night, Charlotte brought me a glass of tea, and Chic and Marva prayed

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Cheryl began to think about the nurses in ICU named Gary and Tammy that took care of her when she was her most vulnerable. She thought about her friend Laura who stayed by her side. She thought of the group of CRNAs who came to lay hands on her and pray in the hospital. She thought of Dr. Thompson who, unbeknownst to them, asked nurses not to call James and to call her instead if they had a problem the night that Cheryl spent in the ICU. She thought of her labor and delivery colleagues who came to see her, and all the staff at St. Michaels who worked to help her in this great moment of need. She thought of her tireless and compassionate husband who, when she was sent home, brought her coffee, carried her, encouraged her when she had to use a walker and eventually a cane to walk. “During my recovery, I felt so isolated at first, but James helped to arrange, along with my coworkers, for my friends to bring me lunch and visit with me during the day, and that really helped me stave off depression,” Cheryl says. “Also my neighbors stepped up to the plate by bringing dinner and driving me to rehab before I could drive again. You never think about how much you need to walk to do things, even to stand and cook. So friends and neighbors helped out with little day to day things that we take for granted. Since I don’t really have any family here, I had to depend on my church family, the medical community, neighbors and friends. My son, Stephen, took care of me when my husband couldn’t. It melted my heart to see his compassion. I realized how important a support system is to healing. Friends and family sent flowers and cards. Even my daughter’s college roommate’s family sent me gourmet ‘Cheryl cookies.’ These are the things I will never forget.”

As a nurse, Cheryl recognized her own symptoms, but now she wants to spread awareness through her story. She wants others to know about FAST, a quick process for helping to determine if someone is having 18

ALT Magazine|April 2016

a stroke. The letters stand for Face, Arms, Speech and Time. In the end, when dealing with a stroke, timing is everything. “I guess if I was going to have a stroke, the best place to be would be the hospital!” Cheryl says. “I was so lucky that the excellent team at St. Michaels was able to stop it before more damage could occur.”

Cheryl’s fear was not being able to walk again, but once she started physical therapy at the outpatient

rehab center it gave her a safe place to cry, sort through her own emotions and come to grips with what was happening to her. Though she would tell her colleagues that she would be back to work soon, they encouraged her to take her time, and deep down, Cheryl knew that she needed it. She also worked with Dr. Griffin, a neurologist, and Dr. Wong, an internist, to start defining Cheryl’s new “normal.”

She was more tired, more emotional than she was used to. But, Cheryl set a goal; she wanted to walk by the time

the women in the family went to see a beloved family icon, Taylor Swift, in concert. She especially wanted her daughter, Sarah, who had last seen her in the bed at ICU, to see her up and walking. “Even though I could barely move, I just kept telling myself that I was going to go. I am an optimistic person, and there is nothing in the world I won’t do for my kids, even if that means figuring out how to walk again,” Cheryl says. “The stroke didn’t just affect me, if affected all those around me, even my children. I HAD to walk again. I was determined because I wanted my kids faith in the Lord to grow. I wanted them to know that the Lord would even answer their prayers for their mom.”

Even though she took her cane for support, Cheryl attended that concert with her daughter, her sister in law, her niece and her granddaughter. She will never forget the look on her daughter’s face when she saw her. She even dressed up, since it is a family tradition at all Taylor Swift concerts. Even though she took 10 weeks off, she did start back to work. Even though she worried she would never run again, she ran for the first time recently and didn’t fall. Even though she struggled with feelings of guilt, low self-esteem, anger and fear, she relied on scripture that reminded her that she would “rise on wings like eagles.” “This experience humbled me. I had to humble myself enough to say, ‘I need help, and I don’t know how to thank everyone,’” Cheryl says. “God healed me. He used the doctors, the nurses, the staff, the medicine, but I’m so humbled that He would heal me. It sounds cliche, but the stroke ironically turned out to be a blessing.

I don’t always understand His ways, but I trust Him. He allowed this stroke to happen for His glory and my good.

Now, thanks to God, a family that loves me, my church family, my dear friends who support me, my co-workers who encourage me, and all those who have prayed for me, I’m on the road to being whole again to where I can say, ‘Stroke? What stroke?’”

HEALTH ISSUE

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Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and the leading cause of adult disability in the United States.

WHAT IS STROKE? Stroke is a disease that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts (or ruptures). When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood (and oxygen) it needs, so it and brain cells die.

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WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF STROKE? Stroke can be caused either by a clot obstructing the flow of blood to the brain (called an ischemic stroke) or by a blood vessel rupturing and preventing blood flow to the brain (called a hemorrhagic stroke). A TIA (transient ischemic attack), or “mini stroke”, is caused by a temporary clot.

WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF STROKE? The brain is an extremely complex organ that controls various body functions. If a stroke occurs and blood flow can’t reach the region that controls a particular body function, that part of the body won’t work as it should.

Learn more about how stroke affects the brain at http://www.strokeassociation.org/STROKEORG/

SPOT A STROKE Stroke Warning Signs and Symptoms

F.A.S.T. is an easy way to remember the sudden signs of stroke. When you can spot the signs, you’ll know that you need to call 9-1-1 for help right away. F.A.S.T. is: Face Drooping – Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person’s smile uneven?

Arm Weakness – Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

Speech Difficulty – Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand?

Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like “The sky is blue.” Is the sentence repeated correctly?

Time to call 9-1-1 – If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get the person to the hospital immediately. Check the time so you’ll know when the first symptoms appeared.

THINK YOU ARE HAVING A STROKE? CALL 9-1-1 IMMEDIATELY! ALT-Mag.com|April 2016

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A healthy smile never goes out of style!

• • • • • •

Advanced Technology Comfortable Office Quality Treatment Superior Care Anxiety Free People First Helping Your Dentist Relieve Pain & Preserve Natural Teeth

Dr. Jason M. Michel, DDS | 1726 Galleria Oaks Dr, Texarkana, TX | 903.793.7411 | www.TexarkanaEndo.com

ALT-Mag.com|April 2016

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ALT HEALTH CARE

HEALTH ISSUE

BE AWARE

SURVIVING BREAST CANCER: A Story by Crystal Sanders

I was diagnosed with stage 2, invasive breast cancer in 2009 at age 33. My children were 3 and 6 years old at the time. I am extremely humbled to say I’m a 6 year survivor and currently disease free.

Honestly, as a 33 year old, the thought of breast cancer never crossed my mind. I didn’t have a family history of cancer, and I lived a healthy lifestyle. I truly wasn’t aware breast cancer could happen to someone my age.

I now know breast cancer shows no discrimination when it comes to age, race, or lifestyle. Simply being a woman is the main risk factor for developing breast cancer. 1 in 8 women in the US will develop breast cancer over their lifetime, and for some reason, women are being diagnosed at younger ages. The good news is death rates are declining due to early detection, increased awareness and improved treatment. If you aren’t old enough to fall into the screening category, you must do self exams. This is LIFESAVING! I cannot stress enough the importance of self exams.

By God’s grace, I discovered my own breast cancer and probably would not have survived if I had not found it when I did. I am not kidding when I say, God literally had His hand on me and led me to this discovery.

My largest tumor was 5cm and rapidly grew to being visible beneath the skin. I was putting on lotion after a shower and my hand went over a large bump high on my chest. I didn’t realize that the tissue on your upper chest is considered breast tissue, but that is where my largest tumor decided to set up shop. When my hand ran across this large lump, it stopped me in my tracks. I immediately knew something wasn’t right. I did a self exam and felt more lumps in my breast. As you can imagine, I was extremely scared.

The next thing that happened was key to my recovery. I scheduled an appointment with my doctor and went in for screening without delay. Based on breast ultra sound and a biopsy, cancer was confirmed, and I began chemotherapy right away. After several rounds of chemotherapy, a bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction, I am blessed to say I am cancer free.

Today, I continue to take a drug that prevents recurrence.

God had a different plan for my life, and I will live the rest of my life giving Him the glory for the discovery and healing of this terrible disease. My faith is what truly got me though this terrible time, and Jesus revealed Himself to me in a way I didn’t know was possible. Shortly after my first treatment, I was praying and meditating on scriptures and Jesus led me to Daniel 2:22: “He reveals deep and hidden things, He knows what lies in darkness and light dwells with Him.”

Lean on your faith and listen to your bodies. Don’t ignore a lump or bump that doesn’t seem quite right. If you discover something, get it checked out, and if you’re of screening age, don’t skip your mammogram. Early detection is optimal.

Photo by Maura Johnson

“He reveals deep and hidden things, He knows what lies in darkness and light dwells with Him.” Daniel 2:22 ALT-Mag.com|April 2016

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䰀漀渀最攀瘀椀琀礀 䴀攀搀椀挀椀渀攀Ⰰ 䄀渀琀椀ⴀ愀最椀渀最 洀攀搀椀挀椀渀攀Ⰰ 䄀氀琀攀爀渀愀琀椀瘀攀 䴀攀搀椀挀椀渀攀Ⰰ 䤀渀琀攀最爀愀琀椀瘀攀 洀攀搀椀挀椀渀攀⸀⸀⸀

圀攀椀最栀琀 䰀漀猀猀 䴀愀挀甀氀愀爀 䐀攀最攀渀攀爀愀琀椀漀渀 䌀愀爀瀀愀氀 吀甀渀渀攀氀 吀栀礀爀漀椀搀 䐀椀猀漀爀搀攀爀猀 䴀椀最爀愀椀渀攀 䠀攀愀搀愀挀栀攀猀 䄀氀氀攀爀最椀攀猀 䄀氀稀栀攀椀洀攀爀ᤠ猀 䈀愀挀欀 倀愀椀渀 䠀攀瀀愀琀椀琀椀猀 一攀甀爀漀瀀愀琀栀礀 䌀愀渀挀攀爀 䴀匀 䌀愀爀搀椀漀瘀愀猀挀甀氀愀爀 匀甀瀀瀀漀爀琀

ᰠ倀愀椀渀 椀猀 椀渀攀瘀椀琀愀戀氀攀Ⰰ 猀甀昀昀攀爀椀渀最 椀猀 漀瀀琀椀漀渀愀氀⸀⸀⸀ᴠ 㘀㄀㤀 䔀愀猀琀 㘀琀栀 匀琀⸀ 吀攀砀愀爀欀愀渀愀Ⰰ 䄀刀 眀眀眀⸀渀漀爀琀栀昀椀攀氀搀挀氀椀渀椀挀⸀渀攀琀

㠀㜀 ⸀㜀㜀㈀⸀㠀㘀㈀㈀

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ALT Magazine|April 2016

Pediatric Dentistry of Texarkana Dr. Mitchell Glass • Dr. Brittany Bunch

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27

CASA

It’s Time to Shine Our Own Spotlight

CASA for Children Recognizes National Child Abuse Prevention Month

The Oscars did an amazing thing recently for our community – they helped to shed light on the growing issue of child sexual abuse by awarding the movie Spotlight with Best Picture. Chronicling a team of Boston newspaper reporters on the quest for answers in a child sex abuse scandal, it has given us another way to broach the most distasteful subject of all.

There are children in our community who are still being sexually abused as you read this and we all have a role to play in protecting them.

As an organization dedicated to battling child abuse in our community, CASA for Children welcomes a new resource in our efforts to spread the word. Disclosure is the turning point in any abusive relationship, so CASA does everything they can to give victims the courage to report. The fear that stands in the way of that disclosure can only be broken down with awareness, true compassion and genuine honesty. No matter how uncomfortable the topic makes us feel, we must push past that as a community in order to help these victims.

Though only approximately 10% of CASA cases involve child sexual abuse, the Texarkana Children’s Advocacy Center still handles approximately 400-500 alleged cases annually. Other forms of child abuse seen by CASA for Children include environmental neglect, drug or alcohol abuse factors and many others.

Spotlight focused not only the abuse that took place, but the complicity of a respected institution in allowing it to continue for generations. This point was driven home midway through the film when Stanley Tucci’s character (Mitchell Garabedian, an attorney representing victims), states: “If it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a village to abuse them.”

While Spotlight focused on one particular institution, the truth resonates across the various “villages” of which we’re citizens.

Whether that’s a family unit, school, workplace or youth-serving organization, we must foster a culture which gives victims the courage to come forward and encourages honesty by all involved.

The movie tells a few key truths about abuse that are just as relevant today as they were when the Boston story broke.

First, abuse can happen to anyone. Whether it occurs at the hands of clergy, educators, coaches or even family members, most incidents of child sexual abuse are committed by people who know the child well. About one in 10 children will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday; 1 out of 4 girls and 1 out of 6 boys.

Second, abuse fosters fear and secrecy in victims.

One of a sexual perpetrator’s greatest assets is the string of lies they use to control their victims. “No one will believe you.”

“I will tell people it was your idea.” “If you tell, I will kill you or someone you love.”

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ALT Magazine|April 2016

Third, abuse is rarely a one-time thing. Statistics indicate that people who are willing to sexually abuse a child won’t limit themselves to a single incident. The likelihood of repeat offenses and “grooming” multiple victims is unfortunately high.

Fourth, abuse’s impact can linger a lifetime without effective intervention. The average victim faces a laundry list of long-term adverse consequences ranging from adolescent pregnancies and eating disorders to substance abuse and time in the criminal justice systems (youth and adult). Fortunately, the local CASA for Children and Texarkana Children’s Advocacy Center offer evidence-based therapeutic services that have proven highly effective.

At Children’s Advocacy Centers throughout Texas and Arkansas, professionals devoted to justice for the child victims of abuse collaborate on investigations of abuse allegations, provide support to families torn apart by revelations of abuse and offer effective therapy to victims. CASA for Children would like you, as a member of our community, to get involved.

Whether you become a CASA volunteer, provide financial support or merely tell everyone you know about CASA’s services, you can help make a difference. Also, if you know of a child in immediate danger, call 911 or at least make a call to the Texas Abuse Hotline at 1-800-252-5400 or the Arkansas Abuse Hotline at 1-800-482-5964.

Ultimately, the biggest difference will occur when we as a society can set aside the awkwardness we feel and speak honestly about the crimes committed behind closed doors. The more light we shine on these cases, the more that victims will feel comfortable disclosing and seek safety.

As much as the CASA for Children organization was pleased to see Spotlight winning an award, they are even more encouraged to know that, across the country and around the world, victims of abuse are finding the courage to report and take the first step on the path to justice and healing.

With the community’s involvement, that process will be accelerated locally as we shine our own spotlight on the most vulnerable among us during National Child Abuse Prevention Month. There are numerous way to participate in raising awareness of child abuse and neglect prevention! CASA for Children will implement a Child Abuse Prevention Month Campaign that includes a Proclamation from our Texarkana Mayors on April 1st, Wear Blue Day on April 4th, Songwriters on the Edge of Texas Concert and Golf Tournament – April 10th & 11th, as well as Blue Sunday on April 24th. Please contact CASA for Children at 903-792-1030 for more information about participating in one of these events or for more information about becoming a CASA volunteer.

ALT CASA

Child Abuse Prevention Month Events: Child Abuse Prevention Month Proclamation Reading April 1, 11:00am at Farmers Bank and Trust, Cowhorn Creek location Wear Blue Day – April 4; On this day, individuals and organizations will band together to make a visible commitment to preventing child abuse and supporting strong families and healthy children. WEAR BLUE anywhere – to work, to school, a community event, the gym, and event at home. Invite your friends, family, students, co-workers or even your entire office to WEAR BLUE too! It doesn’t matter if it’s a blue shirt or blue suede shoes, the unified, community-wide act of wearing blue will help raise awareness that child abuse is preventable.

(Why Blue? In the spring of 1989, a grandmother from Virginia began the blue ribbon campaign as a tribute to her grandson, a three-year old who died at the hands of his mother’s abusive boyfriend. Since that time, concerned citizens all over the country have worn blue as a symbol of the need to prevent child abuse and neglect.)

April 10th - CASA’s 11th Annual Songwriters on the Edge of Texas Concert – 6:00pm, Northridge Country Club - Featuring Randy Rogers and Brady Black, opening act Colt Landon Baker April 11th – CASA’s 11th Annual Songwriters Golf Tournament – 11:30 – Lunch & Registration, 1:00 Golf Tournament April 24th – National Blue Sunday – Plan to participate in National Blue Sunday Day of Prayer on April 24, 2016. Join the 7.3 million people committed to pray for the victims of child abuse and for those who rescue them. Your prayers matter.

Your community involvement can change abused children’s lives for the better. www.bluesunday.org

ALT-Mag.com|April 2016

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Give your home or business a fresh new look this Spring!!

After

BEFORE O : 903.831.6617 C : 903.826.2540 4205 Richmond Place, Texarkana, TX 75503 www.janetgreeninteriordesign.com 32

ALT Magazine|April 2016

Janet Green Interior Design

ALT-Mag.com|April 2016

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ALT MAGAZINE'S HEROES CONTEST SUPER POWER

Protect & Serve Kenny is a true hometown hero. His passion is not only for his community, but for his country as well. He has been a Sheriff for Bowie County a total of 15 years, a part of their SWAT team for 6 years, and an Air Force reservist since 2009. Whether on duty or off, Kenny will always respond when called. Kenny can act as a simple listening ear, be an excellent sheriff whether on duty or off, respond to a late night SWAT call, or even fight for our country overseas. He never once pauses, as he is always ready to take action in whatever responsibility may be presented to him. In March of 2015, a call was made to the local dispatchers concerning a burning home with an elderly women trapped inside. As Kenny arrived at the scene, he quickly assessed the situation. Without hesitation, he attempted to enter the home. Realizing the smoke was too heavy, he frantically began looking for a mask or anything he could use to breath in order to enter the smoke filled home. The closest item he found was a sheet. He quickly tied it around his face and headed in. The room was engulfed in smoke as he searched for someone in the home. Suddenly the air around him became clear. Kenny said if it weren’t for God guiding his path and removing the smoke from that very space, he would have never found the woman trapped in the home.

Listening to him tell the story will bring chills to your body as he knows God was right by his side at all times. We all thank God she is alive and well today. Thanks to this courageous act, Kenny McMillen was named Bowie County Officer of the Year for 2015.

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ALT Magazine|April 2016

KENNY MCMILLEN Note: Ms. Michelle Carrier was also a hero along side Mr. McMillen on this rescue. She was also awarded Officer of the Year by the Bowie County Sheriff’s Office.

ALT SUPER HEROS

Reena Corbin

SUPER POWER

Unstoppable

Reena Corbin was one of the first people I met when I moved to Texarkana. I was struck by her professionalism and drive, as she drove us around looking for our first home. At the time, I had no idea such a sweet person held so much determination and strength. She and her husband, Brandon, met in 2010. After years of unsuccessful attempts to expand their family, in 2014, they welcomed beautiful twins, Khloe and Carson. Reena took on the task of Broker at Coldwell Banker Elite Realtors in 2015, with the goal of creating a real estate company that focuses on community, family and making the home-buying process as easy as possible. This in itself is quite an ambitious task! Then, as the holidays approached, and she was wrapping up her first extremely successful year as broker, she hit a huge roadblock. While at work, she became dizzy, with a pounding headache and pain down her arm. She was rushed to the doctor and was hospitalized. The doctors found an aneurysm on the right side of her brain. Everyone was terrified. After tests and medications, she was released, and must live the rest of her life with the aneurysm. She suffers from chronic complex migraines, sometimes hospitalizing her.

Doctors cannot seem to find answers to determine the cause of her migraines, or to ease her pain. This does not stop Reena. She actually showed up to the company Christmas party with hospital bracelets still on her wrists, and discretely had her husband cut them off under the table once she realized they were still on. When the news of her aneurysm spread throughout town, all we heard was “I had no idea she had health problems!� She keeps it to herself and no one has a clue how much she pushes aside to make her agents a success. She works full time and is a devoted, loving, and loyal wife and mother.

She is an inspiration to me, to her agents and to Texarkana.

Patricia Lane Mrs. Patricia Lane is a hero and inspiration to many people in our community. She is known for her compassion for young and old, helping those that she can help. As a member of Highland Park Baptist Church, she has done so much to help others. Using creative methods to encourage learning in children, as a Sunday School Teacher, Mrs. Pat has been known to send cards to the kids in her class, thus creating an excitement unparalleled to any other. People have forgotten the value of handwritten notes, but not Mrs. Pat! In addition to all of this, she has been devoted to her church and to singing in the choir for her entire lifetime! Even with health issues making it difficult for her to walk, she loves singing and worshipping the Lord so much that she will not stop! Her smile and laughter are contagious! She is truly an inspiration to so many, and she is my Hero!

SUPER POWER

Kindness ALT-Mag.com|April 2016

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ALT Magazine|April 2016

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Ear Photo Contest

2016 ALT Photo Contest Winners The ALT Earth Day Photo Contest winners are here! Every year photographers from around Texarkana are sharing photographs that transport us to another place, connect with us emotionally, or stir us to action. The official category was Earth Day. Which picture won grand prize?

Flip the page to see all the winning pictures.

rth Day

April 22

We asked for your Earth Day photos, and boy did you deliver! Check out the top 10.

ALT PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST

Lou Ford “Fall on the Conejos”

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ALT Magazine|April 2016

ALT PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST

Mandy Bright “Small In Comparison’

Diann Roy

“Place of Peace”

Lauren Wilson “Spring Kiss”

ALT-Mag.com|April 2016

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ALT PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST

Ben Curtis Ashley Harris “Abigail Loves the Spring Flowers”

Linda Miller Smith “The Return of the Flowers”

Christopher Allen “A Beautiful Snowy Day in the Village” 46

ALT Magazine|April 2016

Holland Plunk “After the Miracle Came a Rose”

Joy Johnson “Earth’s Bounty”

Go Green

When Spring Cleaning!

It’s spring-cleaning time, and with that laborious task comes mounds of trash left to throw out. Trash is not something most people take into consideration. It becomes part of your weekly routine. You gather unneeded clutter around your house, toss it into a trash bag, and then throw the bag into the garbage can for the trash man to tow away. Have you ever thought about spring-cleaning, not just your house, but also your trash as well? Most people, now days, do not think about recycling as much as they should.

Everyone knows that recycling gives people a chance to help the earth by reducing the amount of materials produced to conserve energy, but recycling also gives people a chance to:

-

(+)

( )

(/)

Reuse

Recycle

items around your house that may be cluttering your closets, drawers, and shelves.

old items around your house by making space saving storage out of common house items.

You can organize all your unwanted items into labeled trash bags.

One creative idea you could do is to add more space to your kitchen counter by creating labeled mini magnetic spice containers out of mason jars. This idea can help you store all of your spices under your upper kitchen cabinets, while keeping clutter off the counter and out of drawers.

the items you cannot reuse around the house like old paper, plastic, glass, batteries and light bulbs to your local waste and recycling facility for proper disposal.

Reduce

“We are living on this planet as if we had another one to go to.”

- Terri Swearingten

Depending on where you may live in Texarkana, The Texarkana Waste Management facility provides the people in the Texarkana area regular trash pick up rounds on certain days.

However, if you live outside Texarkana, and you want to drop off your recyclables there, you can call (903) 794 – 4111 to request a pickup or visit the facility at 2708 W 7th St Texarkana, TX 75501

( x) Donate your old and unwanted items like books, shoes, electronics and furniture to your local donation facility. Most donation facilities like The Salvation Army will provide people in need with your donated items.

You can also go to http://www.rightathome. com/Cleaning/Articles/Pa ges/7IdeasforRecyclingYo urClutter.aspx to send your items to the following organizations: Nike Reuse-A-Shoe Books for Soldiers Phones for Charity/Cell Phones for Soldiers and Big Brothers, Big Sisters of America.

Your

moments

are our

CHOIC

ALT

AR AW DS

R EA D

RS

E

E

Masterpiece.

2016

mag

azine

WEDDINGS | PROM | MOTHER’S DAY 3412 Richmond Rd (Across from Ace Hardware) | Texarkana, TX 75503 | (430) 200-0854 www.persnicketytoo.com | www.facebook.com/persnicketytoo

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ALT Magazine|April 2016

Let’s talk Fashion

Max info pg. 67

Character.

Intelligence.

Strength.

Style.

That makes beauty.

- Diane Van Furstenberg ALT-Mag.com|April 2016

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ALT LET’S TALK FASHION

Spring into these Hot Looks

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ALT Magazine|April 2016

ALT LET’S TALK FASHION

Find this look at Abby Gayle’s

ALT-Mag.com|April 2016

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ALT JENNA WILLIAMSON

It’s Kool to

BE KIND ACT Now

JENNA WILLIAMSON Miss Hunt County’s Outstanding Teen 2016

Daughter of George and Lisa Tullis Texarkana, TX Daughter of Charlie and Allison Williamson of Longview, TX

ACT Now is an acronym I use when explaining to people how they can show kindness. The A stands for Attitude: we should always keep a positive attitude so we are in the right mindset when helping others. The C stands for Compassion: We should always show compassion to others. It should become second nature to treat others with a compassionate heart. The T stands for Timely: Be timely with your gestures. Don’t wait. If you see someone struggling or in need, do what you can to assist them.

What made you decide to choose kindness as your platform? I have always felt that kindness is a gift that I have received, AND a gift I should give to others.

I have been blessed to be raised in a very KIND and ENCOURAGING environment.

I was born with a servant’s heart and have always wanted to help others. I think kindness is somewhat of a lost quality in my generation. I feel people emphasize on things that are convenient and easy and put kindness on the back burner. Our lives are so fast paced and we don’t take the time to think about how we treat each other. Showing respect, thinking before you speak, a smile, or a pat on the back, are all simple ways we can show kindness. I also think there are many people we come in contact with every day that are struggling privately. I hope by spreading my platform I can remind people to treat others with a kind heart. A quote:

“BE KIND: FOR EVERYONE YOU MEET IS FIGHTING A BATTLE YOU KNOW NOTHING ABOUT.” How are you planning to make an impact on our area? School programs?

Newspaper articles? I have already talked to several elementary classes about my platform IT’S KOOL TO BE KIND. I think my school platform is awesome. The students are very receptive and the teachers always tell me they can tell a difference in the kids behavior after I leave. Also, I was a featured writer in the first edition of the on-line CMTeen magazine, and I have a monthly column in The Herald-Banner newspaper.

However, my ultimate goal, is to encourage everyone I come in contact with to show more compassion to others, and to accomplish that, my plan is to speak to as many people as possible about my platform. I am also a HUGE believer in service and volunteerism. I will be serving and volunteering every chance I get.

Can you give us an example of something you have done that has helped someone else without expecting or receiving anything in return? How did that person react? Honestly, I try every day to show acts of kindness or compassion to other people. I think small and random acts are just as important as large ones. Something I did a few

years ago that really made an impact on me, was coordinating a ‘get well’ card drive for a family friend that was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 5. My school made approximately 60 cards and I mailed them to the Dallas Children’s Hospital. His mom took photos of him on the day he received the cards and opened them. The look on his face when he opened the box of cards was awesome. He was very sick and for that brief moment the cards took his mind off his illness and made him very happy. I don’t ever expect anything in return. I think we should be helpful. I think we should care about others. I think a lot of the problems in our society and communities today stem from unkind gestures and words.

Tell about your preparation for competition this summer. Well this summer I will be competing at the Miss Texas’ Outstanding Teen pageant in Richardson, TX. There are basically four areas of competition: Interview, physical fitness, talent and evening gown/on-stage question. I have a board of directors that work with me every week. We practice each area. They have been awesome and very supportive. I basically try to improve my skills in each area and hope to continue to grow as a person. I am only 14, so I feel very blessed and fortunate to have the opportunity to compete and share my platform.

ALT-Mag.com|April 2016 55

RACE WITH THE DRAGONS! TEXARKANA DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL SATURDAY, JUNE 11, 2016 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Bringle Lake Park, Texarkana, TX

DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL JUNE 11TH, 2016 BRINGLE LAKE PARK

HandsOn Texarkana is proud to bring the very first MidSouth Bank Dragon Boat Festival to Bringle Lake, Texarkana, Texas (located near the campus of Texas A & M Texarkana.)

• Registration Deadline is May 27, 2016 • Registration forms at www.texarkanadragonboatfestival.com • HandsOn Texarkana 903-798-3211 • Dragon Boat Team: 20 paddlers + 1 Drummer • Number of male/female paddlers varies by team classification • Each team can have a designated practice • Team-building at its finest!

• Support Volunteer Services in Texarkana • Fun filled day for the entire family • 16-20 paddlers per team For more information please contact: Kathey Graves 903 701-6032 www.HandsOnTexarkana.org Visit www.TexarkanaDragonBoatRace.org

ALT LOCAL HOT SPOTS

Texarkana Dragon Boat Festival

Something new and exciting is in the air for the entire area! Texarkana’s first Dragon Boat Race and Festival is coming June 11, 2016 sponsored by MidSouth Bank benefitting the programs of HandsOn Texarkana.

To bring our vision to life, we have partnered with a company proven to be successful in producing and marketing dragon boat events, camps and team building sessions all over the United States. HandsOn Texarkana is inviting teams of up to 20 people to compete in this first Dragon Boat Race! Each year an estimated 50 million people from 40 countries participate in the sport of dragon boat racing. This exciting sport has become a choice competition among athletes of various backgrounds and provides an extremely popular vehicle for fund raising.

It serves as a tool for team building while local communities have successfully combined these two concepts to showcase their waterfront parks.

Dragon Boat Racing is the ultimate team sport. With a short lesson anyone can enjoy participating. Twenty paddlers sit two-by-two in a 42 foot long boat and paddle in unison. A steers person stands in the back guiding the boat while a drummer sits at the front and beats out the cadence of strokes to keep the paddlers in sync and motivates their team to the finish line.

Dragon boating is a great unifier. Paddlers work as a team to make the boat glide; it calls to people of all ages, genders and athletic skills. The appeal of dragon boating is truly universal because it is challenging and demonstrates team work at its finest. It is also lots of fun!

Join us on Saturday, June 11, 2016 at Bringle Lake Texarkana A day full of fun and helping the volunteer effort through HandsOn Texarkana. All funds raised at this event will go to the programs provided to our community – Youth Volunteer Organization, Skilled Parenting, Disaster Preparedness and Elderly Transportation program. Get started by signing up for a fund raising page today and help us get closer to reaching our goal of $50,000.

Teams race in authentic 46-foot Hong Kong style boats for the most fun, unique cultural event featuring adrenaline-pumping action. They race about the excitement, friendly competition and community spirit surrounding the sport. Participants 12 years or older, with all skill levels and physiques perfect their stroke and timing for the ultimate teamwork experience.

Thanks to the fund raising paddlers and teams, the real winners of this event are students who get connected to volunteering, parents learning better parenting skills, elderly people needing to get to doctor’s appointments and our community being prepared for a disaster.

HandsOn Texarkana is a registered 501c3 organization

Forming a Team The Dragon Boat • Each Dragon Boat is 42 feet long • 10 rows seat 20 paddlers • A steers person uses a 9 foot oar as a steering rudder • A drummer sits in a seat at the bow, facing the crew Roster: • 20 paddlers-number of male/female paddlers varies by team classification • 1 drummer (at least 12 years old) • 4 alternative paddlers allowed to rotate between races • High Five Dragon Boat provides each team with a steers person

About Dragon Boat Racing

Dragon boat racing began in China more than 2,000 years ago. Today the tradition has evolved into a fun paddle sport that appeals to people of all ages. Dragon boat racing is a team sport that is growing quickly worldwide.

Each year an estimated 50 million people from 40 countries participate in the sport of dragon boat racing. This exciting sport has become a choice competition among athletes of various backgrounds and provides an extremely popular vehicle for fund rasing. It also serves as a tool for corporate team building. Local communities have successfully combined these two concepts to showcase their waterfront parks and to stimulate their local economy.

Dragon boat racing is the ultimate team sport. With a short lesson almost anyone can enjoy participating. Twenty paddlers sit two-by-two in a 42 foot long boat and paddle in unison with the entire team. A steers person (provided by the festival) stands in the back guiding the boat. A drummer sits at the front and beats out the cadence of strokes to keep the paddlers in sync and motives their team to the finish line.

Dragon boating is a great unifier. Paddlers work as a team to make the boat glide. It calls to people of all ages, genders and athletic skills. The appeal of dragon boating is truly universal because it is challenging and demonstrates team work at its finest. It is also lots of fun.

Everyone involved in this wonderful community event experiences a world of benefits! Paddlers experience teamwork at its best! Spectators are entertained and inspired by activities showcasing the new Bringle Lake Park in Texarkana, Texas.

Sponsors receive significant media attention and lasting good will from their involvement with a respected charitable nonprofit organization. Your employees and team members reap the benefits of team building, increased camaraderie and community spirit. They will proudly don your company’s brand as they paddle to the finish line, vying to be number one!

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Cost: • Corporate sponsored team $1,200 • Community/ non-profit team $900 • Dragon Boat club/ visiting team $750 Practice: • 1 practice session included • Practice will include basics of paddling and racing Equipment: • Paddles, life vests, boats, drums and steers persons will be provided to each team Race Day: • Each team assigned a rest area for tent, chairs, coolers, etc.

• Each team races in 3 heats, no elimination • Course is 350 meters in a straight line • Each team will have 45-60 minutes rest between heats • Division winners awarded in postrace ceremony

LEGE N D A R Y F irearms INDOOR SHOOTING RANGE

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903.336.6139

GIFT CERTIFICATES PRIVATE LESSONS CONCEALED HANDGUN CLASS RENTAL GUNS AVAILABLE

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

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR UPDATES AND SPECIALS!

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

ALT LOCAL HOT SPOTS

Margaret Daniel Educational Foundation Dinner & Silent Auction March 12, 2016, Ashdown, Arkansas The Margaret Daniel Educational Foundation celebrated its 5th foundation dinner since the foundation was founded in 2005.

To date the Foundation has awarded over $200,000 in grants to Ashdown Schools for over the top ideas that challenge and motivate students . This is the first year that the Foundation expanded to the entire district with the Margaret Daniel Primary School Educational Foundation becoming the Margaret Daniel Educational Foundation. The event occurs every other year with proceeds from the dinner and silent auction going toward funding more grants for our students.

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1. Chef Lois Corbell and Margaret Daniel 2. Mark and Michaela Venable, Kristy and Brandon Patterson 3. Mallory Wharton, Brenda Tate, and Kari Hargar 4. Carolyn Castleman, Carolyn Thrash, Helen Parker, and Angela Smyth 5. Chantel and Phil Nixon 6. Rick and Judy Fowler 7. State Representative Deann Vaught, Lonnie Dollarhide, Debbie Greathouse, and Terri Lynn Day 8. Judy Bryan, Frankie Shelton and Superintendent Jason Sanders 9. Chef Jack Madden, Chef James Power, Chef Lois Corbell, and Chef Gary Corbell 10. Clint Wortham, Kay York, Chantel and Phil Nixon 11. Mike Cranford and Debbie Brown 12. Judy Fowler and Kay York

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TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-TEXARKANA EAGLE CLUB JANUARY 28, 2016

The Texas A&M University-Texarkana Eagle Club hosted its annual drawdown fundraiser January 28 in Eagle Hall of the University Center on the A&M-Texarkana campus. Buddy Allen, interim president and CEO of the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce, won the grand prize of the opportunity to have a one-time scholarship named in his honor or in memory or honor of a family member, friend or associate. Guests enjoyed a country-style barbecue by Naaman’s Championship BBQ. The Moss Brothers of Texarkana provided entertainment throughout the evening. “This is a primary fundraiser for the Eagle Club, which provides scholarship support for A&M-Texarkana student-athletes,” said LeAnne Wright, associate vice president for University Advancement. “This was our second year for the event, and it’s becoming one that the community looks forward to every year.” The Eagle Club is the official athletics booster club of Texas A&M University-Texarkana.

1. Taylor McMackin, Regent Judy Morgan, Xavier Carrasco, and Justan Bailey 2. Sarahi Figueroa, Michala Terrell, & Alan Robison 3. Samantha Sharpnack-Isom & Coach Don Koontz 4. Michael Galvin, Steve Jones, Ben King, Amber Galvan, and Jim Bob Marshall 5. Roger & Debbie Shepherd 6. Mary & Dennis Washington 7. Jim & Don McCarty 8. Gail & Dr. Ed Eichler 9. Dr. Michael Perri & Dr. Tom Wagy 10. Chris Hickerson, LeAnne Wright, and Mike Cherry 11.

Chelsea Ivy, Jordon Logan, & Greg Gabriel 12. Buddy Allen, Michael Sparks, & Michael Galvan

RED LICK EDUCATION FOUNDATION FEBRUARY 13, 2016 The Red Lick Education Foundation Prize Patrol headed to the Elementary and Middle School campus to award teachers the grants they requested. The Education Foundation helps support the staff at Red Lick by providing funds for the teachers to purchase items that are not covered by the district funds. 14 Grants were funded by the Foundation this year. The grants were for STARR Math Assessments, Classroom Technology, Science Laboratory needs, Phonics, Better Readers, and much more.

Several teachers went together to write grants because the program or manipulative can be used in multiple classrooms and multiple grades. The grant total for 2015-2016 was $21,728.78.

1. Christy Wallace 2. Green, Morel, & Carr 3. Lavender, Minter, & Blevins 4. Red Lick Prize Patrol Students 5. Jade Wadsworth 6. Stephanie Brush

TEXAS HIGH SOFTBALL

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PHANTOM BALL

Hilton Garden Inn & Texarkana Convention Center FEBRUARY 27, 2016 In 1952, Dr. S. A. Collom and a gathering of Texarkana citizens founded the “Temple Home for Crippled Children� in response to the polio epidemic that was devastating our nation. 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. The Temple Center celebrated their thirteenth annual Phantom Ball at the Hilton Garden Inn and Texarkana Convention Center on February 27, 2016. The annual gala benefits the client services of Temple Memorial Rehabilitation Center.

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1. Mike and Debbie Brower 2. Jamie Knighton, Ashley Harris, Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Amy Steed, and Kandy Hirsch 3. Jason and Ashley Harris 4. Connie and Kaitlyn Thomason 5. Dr. David and Susan Whitten, and Melody and Scott Hines 6. Collin and Kelsey Kuhn, Mark and Carla Wren 7. Scott and Melody Hines 8. Allen and Darla Clement 9. Jacob Waller, Jared Carver, Anita and Brandon Carver 10. Scott Burks, Parker Burks, and Tyler Holt 11. Michelle Harutunian and Fabienne Thrash 12. Erica Stanley, Susan Stanley, and Natalia Hoyos 13. Lisa Dupree, Gina Parish, and Brenda Reid 14. Linda Williams, Heather Meehan, and Lisa Dupree 15. Mary and Andrew Pritchard

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Story by: Brian Goesl and Ann Nicholas Photos by: Charlotte Nyman

BE ARTSY

ARTS INTEGRATION PARTNERSHIP

Honored at National Meeting at the Kennedy Center

Kendra Powers (PGISD), Jennifer Richert (AHS), Gail Taylor (Haworth ISD) Brandy Wall (Haworth ISD), Jennifer Unger (TRAHC), Amy Roberts (LEISD), Brandy Burnett (TISD)

A local group of specialists and teachers is having a huge influence on teaching methods and teachers all across the nation. This local partnership with The Kennedy Center is one of the best-kept secrets and one of the biggest educational success stories in the Texarkana region.

This spring, the Texarkana Partnership Team associated with the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Partners In Education Program was honored as a Presenting Partner at the Center’s Partners in Education Annual Meeting in Washington, DC.

Members of the partnership are: Jennifer Unger representing the Texarkana Regional Arts and Humanities Council (TRAHC), Brandy Burnett from Texarkana Independent School District (TISD), Amy Roberts representing Liberty-Eylau (LEISD), Kendra Powers from Pleasant Grove Independent School District (PGISD), Jennifer Richert representing Texarkana Arkansas School District (TASD), and Gail Taylor and Brandy Wall from the Haworth, OK School District. This team is the largest partnership in the Kennedy Center program, and is the only team to incorporate three states. The Texarkana partnership team is comprised of significantly varying school districts with annual budgets ranging from $61.5 million to $6 million.

TRAHC’s team member Jennifer Unger states “This team of representatives from five school districts is essential to planning successful professional development for teachers. With knowledge of state curriculum and district goals, the team works to focus the trainings to be meaningful and relevant for our area teachers. The team is also able to look beyond the specifics of each state’s curriculum to ensure that teachers receive the best quality training to engage students in 21st century learning. Even though we have rivalries on the sports fields, this team works as a cohesive unit in order to provide top-quality professional learning opportunities.”

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ALT ARTS INTEGRATION PARTNERSHIP

The Five “C’s”: Commitment, Communication,

The Texarkana Kennedy Center Partnership was established in 2010 to support educational excellence through specific and focused professional development in arts integration. “Learning in and through the arts provides an expanded framework for critical thinking, accommodates a wider variety of learning styles, promotes diverse multicultural perspectives, and explores leaning through unique artistic forms,” according to the Partnership’s mission statement.

Brandy Burnett of Texarkana Independent School District: “Presenting at the national meeting was an excellent way to not only share our story and successes as a partnership, but to also gain ideas and perspectives from other teams across the nation. Being able to hear from other teams allows us to grow the AR/TX/OK partnership in a way that will strengthen the ongoing professional development for our teachers. Each one of us in the partnership are so lucky to have the buy-in from our leaders. In order to sustain any program you must have the buy-in from the top down.

We are grateful that our superintendents believe in the power that the arts can bring to the classroom and that they fully support our efforts.”

The theme of the Texarkana Team’s presentation was “Building YOUR Partnership Team: Strategies for Creating Strong Relationships.” The team’s two-hour presentation to arts and school leaders from across the nation centered on the “Cs” of a successful partnership: Commitment, Communication, Community, Challenges, and Celebrations. Following the formal presentation, participants were challenged to share ideas through a Collective Wisdom protocol, and to create an action plan to take back to their teams.

“I’ve always been a firm believer in the value of arts integrated experiences for students. The partnership with the Kennedy Center has only strengthened that as I’ve watched teachers and students in the Texarkana Arkansas School 64

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District, across the city, and beyond collaboratively engage in learning that exercises critical thinking and creativity. As a team, we model the same elements in our work together. We strive to meet the common learning needs of teachers and students in our area while building lasting relationships. Though we’ve come from

different professional backgrounds, we share a passion for our students and arts integration and what it can do to transform their learning.” Jennifer Richert Texarkana Arkansas School District

Currently, almost 100 Partnership Teams in 42 States and the District of Columbia participate in the program.

Each Partnership Team consists of at least two members: a representative of an arts organization and a representative of the senior administration of a neighboring school district. Jennifer Unger serves as the representative from TRAHC. The Texarkana Partnership was among the first to include multiple dis-

tricts in multiple states; it now represents a cooperative of five school districts in three states. The great success of this partnership was the catalyst for the invitation to be a presenting partner at the 2016 Annual Meeting.

“It was an honor to present the workshop at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, but it is a greater honor to bring innovative strategies through quality professional development to the teachers that will help the students in our community be successful in learning.

Our focus is the student.” Kendra Powers, PGISD. According to the Kennedy Center, arts integration is an approach to teaching in which students construct and demonstrate understanding through an art form.

Students engage in a creative process that connects an art form and another subject area and that meets evolving objectives in both.

Arts Integration is sweeping education in America, as teachers and administrators re-discover the power of integrating the arts into the curriculum. Through the early work of hundreds of arts organizations and partnerships, educators are learning to integrate a variety of teaching strategies to engage all children Kindergarten – Grade 12. The arts are recognized as an integral component of learning, and as an anchor for teachers and for students.

As America’s national center for the performing arts, and as a leader in the development of arts education and programming, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is committed to developing education‘s resources to share with arts organizations and schools across the country. The Partners in Education (PIE) program is specifically designed to assist arts organizations in developing and expanding educational partnerships to provide professional learning in the arts for teachers. Additionally, it fosters partnerships among arts organizations, schools, and communities.

ALT ARTS INTEGRATION PARTNERSHIP

Community, Challenges, and Celebrations The Kennedy Center Advisory Committee believes that a strong partnership team understands and embraces the local community’s values and creates quality, embodies leadership, cultivates and nurtures relationships, secures and leverages resources, and advocates for teachers and for the arts.

Professional learning opportunities for teachers in arts integration help to ensure that students are prepared for academic success. Learning through the arts strengthens the learning environment and attracts teachers who love to teach, according to research. Through the work of the partnership, teachers learn to diversify their teaching strategies by identifying concepts, terminology, and information about art forms that can be integrated into existing curricula. Teachers then learn to construct activities that teach the art form and integrate it. Teachers then evaluate the effectiveness of arts integration on student achievement.

The arts have been proven to close the achievement gap by creating powerful learning communities that maximize student achievement. The program is based on the belief that teachers’ professional learning in arts integration is an essential component of any effort designed to increase literacy. The arts – music, visual art, drama, media arts, dance, writing – are a vehicle for communication, understanding, attention, and higher order thinking. The arts give confidence and promote respect among diverse populations. The arts are an equalizing force within communities and schools.

Teams that initiate or expand programs for teachers as a result of their work at the Institute are invited to continue their association with the Kennedy Center through Annual Meetings. These meetings allow team members to receive additional training related to programs, workshops, and partnership development. These annual meetings also provide the opportunity for teams to learn from the experiences of other teams, renewing professional associations with other Partnership Team members and the Kennedy Center staff.

The conference includes a four-day Institute that examines program models and planning strategies for establishing or expanding professional learning programs in the arts for all teachers. Offerings include annual multi-

day meetings and intensive seminars, along with special access to the Kennedy Center staff and resources.

Visit the Kennedy Center website at https://artsedge.kennedy-center.org/.

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5 SMARTER WAYS TO SAVE FOR RETIREMENT WHEN YOU’RE BEHIND Submitted by: Dustin Stringer Stringer Wealth Management LPL Financial StringerWealthManagement.net

Time seems to fly by like a speeding train.

It feels like you graduated from high school yesterday, but then you blink and get an email about your 25th reunion. Another blink, and you have two kids. When did all that happen? You might feel this way especially when you look at your retirement fund. Years passed in the blink of an eye, and now you’re behind on your retirement savings.

If this describes you, don’t get discouraged. You can still enjoy an inspired retirement. Depending on your age and income, you can make up for lost time and catch up on your retirement savings. Even if you’re close to retirement age, you can make changes that will allow you to feel secure about your financial future.

1. Get Rid of Debt

Debt payments are stealing from your future.

Get mad! Then decide to get rid of debt.

Use the debt snowball method. When you’re done, all that extra cash can go toward your retirement.

And, yes, pay off your mortgage. You might get a tax break from mortgage interest payments, but that deduction might be less than the interest you’re paying every year, so you could save more by getting rid of the debt entirely.

Imagine how much money you could put toward retirement if you were debt free. That could fund an inspired retirement for sure.

2. Ramp Up Your Savings Rate

Look at the percentage of your salary you’re putting into your company’s retirement program if you have that option. The second thing to check is whether or not you’re taking full advantage of any company match. Your company might match your contribution up to a certain percentage of your income. If your company matches 4 percent, but you’re only investing 3 percent, you’re missing out on free money.

If you’re like many people, you participate in a savings program ― but you aren’t investing enough. Once you’re debt free, you need to invest at least 15 percent of your annual income for retirement. Saving 7 percent or 8 percent of your net pay isn’t enough.

Generally speaking, you can contribute $18,000 a year to a 401k. If you’re 50 or older, you can use the catch-up option and increase your contributions to $24,000 a year, according to the IRS. There are some income restrictions, though, so research your options before making changes.

If you are intensely inspired about your retirement, you can also contribute to an individual retirement account ― either a

traditional IRA or a Roth IRA. You can invest up to $5,500 a year if you’re under 50 or up to $6,500 if you’re 50 or older. You might not be able to max out your contributions every year, but putting away a little extra is better than nothing.

3. Scale Down Your Lifestyle

In order to ramp up your savings, you might need to say goodbye to some of the extras you’ve come to enjoy. Drink office coffee instead of spending $6 a day on lattes. Ditch all those cable channels and use a streaming service instead. Stop trying to keep up with the Joneses ― they’re up to their eyeballs in debt. As you get raises and bonuses, keep your lifestyle the same. Making more money doesn’t mean you need to spend more money.

4. Downsize Your Home

Moving might seem extreme, but it might be the best choice, especially if you are empty-nesters with more house than you need. Use the profits from the sale to pay off debt, buy a smaller home or condo, and throw any extra into your retirement savings. You might even consider relocating to another part of town ― or another part of the country ― with a lower cost of living.

Feeling attached to your home is understandable. You’ve made memories inside those walls. But memories can’t pay the bills when you’re retired. Besides, it’s not the location that matters; it’s the people you’re with. You can create new memories wherever you are.

5. Delay Retirement Until Age 70

You probably want to retire as early as possible.

But if you’re behind on your retirement savings, you might have to work longer than you originally thought. There are two reasons you might want to hold off on retiring for a few years: compound interest and Social Security benefits.

Find us on

by the government. The earliest you can take benefits is age 62, but your benefits will be reduced.

Currently, full retirement age is 67 for those born in 1960 or later. If you wait until age 70 to retire, however, you might qualify to get more than 100 percent of your benefits. For example, anyone born in 1960 or later who delays retirement until 70 might qualify for 124 percent of the amount you would have received had you started taking benefits at full retirement age. That’s a lot of money.

Keep in mind that the rules for Social Security are everchanging. So, as you get closer to retirement age, stay informed. You don’t want to be caught off guard.

Catching up on your retirement savings means sacrificing some extras right now ― like a huge vacation or a newer car ― so you can enjoy the benefits later. You can’t change the past, but you can prepare for a secure and dignified future. If you stay focused on your goal and keep working your plan, you can enjoy a dream retirement.

LPL Financial does not provide tax or legal advice. The information contained in this report should be used for informational purposes only. The appropriate professionals should be consulted on all legal and accounting matters prior to or in conjunction with implementation of the plan.

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

Your investments have more time to grow. Time and compound interest are critical components to successful investing. You might not think working and investing an extra five years would matter that much, but here’s an example of what a difference a few years can make.

Say you put $1,000 in a money market account that gives you 3 percent interest a year. In one year, you’d have $1,030. In five years, you’d have roughly $1,160. Time plus compound interest equals more money ― and that example is with just $1,000 in a money market account. Think about what an extra five or 10 years could do to help your savings to grow.

Delaying retirement until age 70 can mean more Social Security benefits. Some people assume that they must sign up for and start taking Social Security payouts at the “full retirement age” set

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SPREAD THE WORD RUN Saturday, April 23 at 8:30 a.m.

Texas A&M University-Texarkana 7101 University Ave., Texarkana, TX 75503

Entry Fee - New or used Bible Help us spread the Word of Christ!

All of the Bible’s donated at this event will be distributed right here in our local community by Christian Warriors Texarkana.

Sign up starts at 7:00 AM 5k & 10k Runs - 8:30 AM Kid Fun Run - 10:00 AM Award and door prize ceremony - As soon as runners are finished.

Trophies will be awarded to 1st, 2nd, & 3rd overall male and female for both 5k & 10k races. Medals will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place winners in each age division for both 5k & 10k races as well.

Male & Female Age Divisions for 5k & 10k 19 & under 20-29 30-39 40-49 50-59 60 and up All participants for the Kid Fun Run will receive ribbons.

ALT LOCAL HOT SPOTS

On the Front Lines of Faith: Christian Warriors Lead a Movement of Service, Love and Compassion

By Brittny Ray Crowell

Throughout history, warriors have been revered for possessing the ability to exhibit bravery in the most dismal circumstances. Yet, while they may not wield swords and shields today, there are still those who fight endlessly to preserve the integrity and unity of our communities for all. Founded in July of 2015, the Christian Warriors have dedicated themselves to the mission of defending the honor and humanity of those who are less fortunate through humility, stewardship and kindness.

It all began with a calling of sorts.

Micah Harp felt particularly compelled to help those in need in the Texarkana community. “God put it on Micah’s heart to do

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something, to start a movement,” Cofounder Bruce Powers says. Yet, initially, Micah was reluctant, resisting the quiet urging put upon him, unsure of whether he was the right man to lead such an endeavor. “He finally surrendered, and men’s names started coming to him,” Bruce says. The collective grew to include Kris Nichols, Cliff Guillot, Jamie Page, Mike Brown, Derrick McFarland, and Curtis Wood.

“We came together [because] we were tired of sitting on the side lines. We wanted to act in our community. Our goal is to do all things through love,” Micah says. The men come from a diverse array of backgrounds. Their professions

include a jeweler, IT specialist, mechanic, contractor, Fed Ex truck driver, lawyer, and two business managers. Additionally, the group takes pride in the fact that their members represent various Christian affiliations. “The coolest part is that we have all different denominations. It’s not a church thing. It’s a Christian thing. We have Catholics, Methodists, Mormons, Church of Christ [members], Southern Baptists, and non-denominational followers all within this group.”

While the group’s foundation is faith based, they insist that their calling is not to preach, but to guide others by example. “We try to lead by actions. You have some Christians that [try] to badger and beat you. That’s not our way. We’re not [here] to preach to people. Our goal is to create the largest Christian movement in Texarkana to show the community how powerful Christians can be.” The men wear red bracelets with verses from I Corinthians 16:13-14, which reads, “Be on your guard; stand firm in your faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.” This quote acts as a kind of mission statement, reminding them to act boldly and passionately as spiritual warriors. “As Christians, we are at war every day, but this is not a war we’re supposed to fight with aggression or anger, but the greatest tool God gave us: love”, Micah says.

One of their first projects was a golf tournament to benefit a local veteran in need. Unfortunately, the event was rained out during the devastating floods from last fall. The group contacted every one of the event’s sponsors to refund their $400 investment. “No one took the money back,” Bruce says.

The Christian Warriors went on to host the “Worthy of Warmth Run”, a 5K/10K event in which the entry fee was a new or used coat to be distributed to the homeless. Though the turnout was once again affected by poor weather,

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the event collected over 100 coats which were then cleaned free of charge by Fashion Cleaners. Presenting the coats with something as seemingly small as a cleaners tag was particularly significant and poignant to the group members. “We wanted [the people receiving the coats] to see that they weren’t just dragged out of a closet somewhere,” Bruce says. “We wanted them to see that we care and took the time to get that done. A clean coat makes a big difference,” Micah says.

The group is currently planning another 5K/10K called the “Spread the Word Run” to be held on April 23rd. The entry fee is a new or used bible which will eventually be given out in local neighborhoods and communities. The group currently has about 70 bibles and they hope to reach their goal of 300 by the day of the event. Bibles can be dropped off at Light House Floor and Gallery in Nash or Micah’s Jewelers on Richmond Rd. As well as organizing their own fundraiser events, the group also volunteers for various service projects around the city. Several members recently assisted with organizing another 5K fundraiser to benefit a community member on a transplant recipient list. They also help Walnut Church of Christ feed the homeless every third Sunday, in addition to mentoring the youth at Life House Church under

the direction of Pastor James Ross. The group hopes to continue to be a vessel through which other organizations can help fulfill their particular missions. “If anyone is in need of volunteers, we want to help,” Bruce says.

The Christian Warriors currently meet every 2nd and 4th Tuesday at 6:30 at different locations posted on their Facebook group page. The group has now grown from eight members to over 60 affiliated men and women.

The members speak of each other and their collective efforts in the community with genteel humility. Together, their respective skills offer the group a broad knowledge base in which everyone is equally valued whether they just became involved with the mission or were there from its inception. “We want everyone to feel as important as the first eight men that started it,” Bruce says.

Starting in May, the group will begin meeting at New Anchor Church, an opportunity graciously offered by Pastor David Farren. “God has really blessed us with growth. I never imagined we’d grow this fast,” Micah says. The members maintain that their ministry truly began to flourish once they fully submitted themselves to God’s direction and will for the organization. “When we first started, we had a vision of how we wanted things to go, [but] we gave up on

‘our’ vision, and since that point we’ve been able to grow. It’s up to God. We’re just being obedient,” Micah says. Above all, the group asserts that humility has been the key to their success. “We try to help God, but he doesn’t need any help,” Bruce says. The group is currently working on their non-profit status so they can continue to support those in need in the Texarkana area specifically. “We want to be missionaries in our own communities to create a more Christian based environment for our kids,” Micah says.

The group understands that stepping out on faith to be a conduit for Christ may seem overwhelming. Yet, they encourage believers that the reward is worth the perceived risk. “If you’re resisting God’s call, the only thing you can do is surrender. He doesn’t call you by mistake and change His mind. You don’t know what’s coming up. Things in life may change; but God can see around the corners and you can’t. You have to just trust Him,” Bruce says.

For more information, visit facebook. com/christianwarriorstexarkana.

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CHRISTUS ST. MICHAEL FOUNDATION GALA

FEBRUARY 4, 2016 The 2016 CHRISTUS St. Michael Foundation Gala featured The Spinners! The Spinners were considered one of the greatest soul groups of the early ‘70s, creating a body of work that includes “Could It Be I’m Falling in Love” and “Then Came You.” We were excited to bring this performance to Texarkana and had a fun filled evening of “dinnertainment! Thank you to all of our sponsors, attendees, and volunteers who made the 2016 Foundation Gala a success!

1. Jason & Amy Sadowski, Troy & Anna Marie Hornsby 2. Dr. John Graham, Dr. Nancy Griffin Graham, Francine Francis, & Jesse Buchanan 3. Betty Fowler & Antoinette Peters 4. Beckie Moore, Janet Lyons, & Carol Chiarizio Stone 5. Daniel & Dianne Martin, Douglas & Jennell Ingram 6. Johnnie Cullins, Kelly & John Nutt 7. Ray & Mel Walsh, Curt & Diane Green 8. Lauren Ross, Stacye Magness, Sue Johnson, Brandy Early, & Gail White 9. James Chiarizio & Carol Chiarizio Stone 10. Sylvia Harrison & Mike Ingram 11. Candace Taylor & Vickie Hines 12. Sally Stuart, Diane Green, & Ann Clowers 13.

Don & Patsy Morriss 14. Steve & Janet Matlock

HANDS ON TEXARKANA DRAW DOWN FEBRUARY 25, 2016 HandsOn Texarkana is about service to our community through volunteerism. The needs are great in our community and there are many volunteer opportunities for you consider here in Texarkana and the surrounding areas. Recognizing and honoring valuable volunteers is important to our mission.

1.Suzanne Phillips and Jill McMahon 2. Craig & Lisa Henry and Stella Sharp 3.Julie O’Neal, Becky Burns and Alyson Denson 4.Doug Bowers, Sheriff James Prince & Lisa Prince 5. Patty Hackett, Donna Stewart & Kathy Graves 6.Stacey Roberts and Ike Collins 7. Sue Smith and Jaime Sheets 8.Stella & Richard Sharp and Yulin & Jerry Brewer 9.Eric Daren and Jason Atkinson 10. Owner of Persnickety Too - Carrie Atkinson and Jason Atkinson 11.Will Carter and Stacy Leonard Carter 12. Van Alexander and Mignon Hervey 13. Carter Adams and Cranford Graves

NEW BOSTON BRANCH

TEXARKANA BRANCH

Jamie Tengwall Agency Manager

Angie Hopkins Agent

Marty Hartline Agent

Kim Drewry Agent

Kevin Crites Agent

Trey Dickens Agent Drew Thompson Agent

903.628.3451

903.838.8707 ALT-Mag.com|April 2016

73

Adventures are best when you’re with your best friend...

SPAY

NEUTER

ADOPT

1.877.525.4825 | 870.330.0601 | Fax: 870.330.4614 info@texarkanaanimalleague.org | www.TexarkanaAnimalLeague.org

ALT PET RESCUES

ARK-LA-TEX ANIMAL RESCUE Facebook.com/Ark-La-Tex-Animal-Rescue-1712510318970169

LOCAL Rescues Adopt, Don’t Shop

ARKLATEX COCKER SPANIEL RESCUE Facebook.com/ArklatexCockerSpanielRescue ARTEX ANIMAL WELFARE, INC. (mostly horses) - 903.824.1990

BRONX

PASSION FORPOOCHES

ATLANTA ANIMAL LEAGUE Facebook.com/AtlantaAnimalLeague BOXER RESCUE OF TEXARKANA Facebook.com/BoxerRescueOfTexarkana KITTIES PAD RESCUE Facebook.com/TheKittiesPad LITTLE PAWS RESCUE Facebook.com/LittlePawsRescueTexarkana MUTTLEY CREW GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUE Facebook.com/MuttleyCrewRescue

IZZY

ARKLATEX COCKER SPANIEL RESCUE

MADISON

BOXER RESCUE OF TEXARKANA

MAX

TEXARKANA ANIMAL LEAGUE

PLOTT HOUND ARK-LA-TEX ANIMAL RESCUE

POODLE PATCH RESCUE INC (903) 244-9137 PASSION FOR POOCHES (mostly small dogs) Facebook.com/passionforpooches TEXARKANA ANIMAL LEAGUE Facebook.com/TexarkanaAnimalLeague TEXARKANA HUMANE SOCIETY TexarkanaHumaneSociety.org Facebook.com/TexarkanaHumaneSocietyInc TEXARKANA REPTILE & AMPHIBIAN RESCUE Facebook.com/TkReptileRescue

POODLE PATCH RESCUE INC

SNUGGLES

TEXARKANA HUMANE SOCIETY

SOPHIA

KITTIES PAD RESCUE

ZANE

MUTTLEY CREW

HOLLY

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

Please note, all dogs adopted from this shelter MUST be spayed or neutered.

Spays cost $89$104, neuters are $76-$92 depending on the weight of the dog.

We also have SPONSORED dogs and cats!

This means someone has already paid for their vetting!

Come see who’s waiting!

KENDRA

MARBLE

MOCAH

Is your pet microchipped? If not, come have this done for only $20!

HARRY

BEAR

GENEVIEVE

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

RADICAL

SHYBABY

TORY

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! Please contact our Friends of the Shelter group to find out how you can help! www.facebook. com/friends

oftheshelter

WINONA ALT-Mag.com|April 2016

We’re Open! M-F 11A-5P & SAT 11A-2P

ROMEO/JULIET

75

PURCHASE

•

CONVENTIONAL

•

FHA

•

VA

•

JUMBO

•

REFINANCE

•

RURAL DEVELOPMENT

•

INVESTMENT PROPERTY

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

Call today to find out how much you can afford.

Jason Cree Branch Manager

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.

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

Ask for your complimentary home buying booklet today.

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

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

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

3101 Kennedy Lane Ste. 200 Texarkana, TX 75503

FISH

TALES

By Mike Brower

The Tackle Mafia

Somewhere there is a dark, smokefilled room where shadowy figures plot and scheme how to get money out of us fishermen. They pour over tournaments from club to pro level and look for the most obscure bait or piece of terminal tackle used in the winning string and decide if we as fishermen will fall for the “new” and “best” bait to catch fish.

Vito “the Deuce” Rossi and Mickey “Small Hands” Pucci are the information gatherers. They look for someone who won a tournament using a bait that no one ever heard of, and then pass that information off to Jerry Carbone who, along with Sal Rizzi, create the marketing scheme…err...rather, marketing plan for bait X. After the plan is set up Fredo and “Big” Paulie check to make 76

ALT Magazine|April 2016

sure that they have exclusive rights (and I mean exclusive) to take full credit of the innovation. If they find out they don’t, they will send Tuddy Cicero and his crew to “talk” to the other party about exclusive rights.

After they have secured those rights, the Tackle Mafia then sets up a front group to sell penny stocks in a pump and dump type deal to secure the funds to mass produce bait X. As production ramps up, Frankie “No Nose,” (Big Paulie’s little brother,) along with Paulie Brato, (no kin to Big Paulie,) then set off to “visit” the pros to obtain endorsements.

Now the pros are encouraged to see the benefits and pitfalls of not coming on board -- let’s just say they are made an offer they can’t refuse. Once the production

begins, the pros start “winning” using the brand new Bait X and will tell us how they could never have won that tournament in those conditions without using this Bait X prototype. Soon more pros are using the prototype to catch winning sacks and we are told not to pay attention to the TV show that shows them throwing a different bait on the water as they were not catching anything except on Bait X, but would try different stuff.

After a couple of months of pro endorsements all of a sudden Bait X is on the market and sells for $50.00 per bait. All the sales make Don Tommasino and the Barzini brothers very happy, while we fisherman have another bait to add to the box to throw someday, sometime, maybe.

ALT LOCAL HOT SPOTS

Calendar of Events Visit www.ALT-MAG.com for full details of calendar events.

4/1 - 4/21 R/C Encompass Home Health of East Texas 4P - 4:30P Encompass Home Health of East Texas 5331 Summerhill Rd Texarkana, TX 75503

4/2

4/7

4/9

4/9

2016 ArkLaTex Challenge (One Ride 3 States) 9AM Liberty Eylau High School 2905 Leopard Dr Texarkan, TX 75501

“Spectrum- The Fine Art of Joseph Raymond” 6P - 9P Texarkana Regional Arts Center Texas & 4th Street

Texarkana Fitness Expo 9A - 5P Texarkana Convention Center

Back the Blue 5K Fun Run 8:30A - 11:30A 3107 Trinity Boulevard Texarkana, AR 71854

4/9

4/10 - 4/11

4/15

4/15

Texakana’s Largest Indoor Garage Sale 7A - 1P Four State Fairgrounds 3700 East 50th Texarkana, AR 71854

CASA Songwriters on the Edge of Texas Concert & Golf Tournament 6P - 10P Northridge Country Club 120 Bill Rogers Drive Texarkana, TX 75503

Harvest Texarkana’s Annual Wine and Jazz Gala 7PM Silvermoon on Broad 213 Broad Street Texarkana, TX 75501

Cruise Nights 2016 5P-8P Four States Auto Museum 3rd & Hazel Street Texarkana, AR

4/20

4/21

4/23

4/23

Four States Auto Museum Dinner 6PM First United Methodist Church Cabe Center 400 E. 6th Street Texarkana, AR

Gladys Morris Stone Soup Luncheon 11A - 1:30P First United Methodist Church 400 E. 6th Street Texarkana, AR

American Cancer Society Relay For Life 3:30P - 9:30P Four States Fairgrounds 3700 E. 50th Street Texarkana, AR 71854

7th Annual Rosehill Neighborhood Celebration 11A - 2P Tiger Stadium @ Grim Memorial Park

4/23

4/26

4/30

5/7

Spread The Word Run 7AM Texas A&M UniversityTexarkana 7101 University Avenue Texarkana, TX 75503

Hands on Texarkana 18th Annual Volunteer Recognition Event 6P Texarkana Country Club 1 Country Club Lane Texarkana, AR 71854

Touch-A-Truck (Junior League) 9A-1p Front Street Texarkana, TX

Walk for Life 5k, 10k (1 mile fun run for kids) 7AM Spring Lake Park Pavilion 1 Texarkana, TX ALT-Mag.com|April 2016

77

The Ranch...

Enjoy it all! Wonderful country home in a park like setting with a pond on approximately 8 acres. Enjoy the peace and quiet of the country without being too far from city amenities. This home offers 3/2.5/2 w/FP. Approximately 2700 Myrtle Springs square feet with two covered porches. Two entrances with custom gates and circle drive.

And entire property is fenced to the ground.

Beautiful pond, too. Custom 40x60 insulated air conditioned shop/horse barn with attached Oakridge carport. Bonus riding arena. Home includes new appliances and flooring. Home can be Ag 16051 Broadleaf, exempt.

Broadleaf

Akin

Kings Highway

Country living close to the city...

Texarkana, Texas

Offered by

5604 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 75503 (903) 277-1222

Pam Hollingsworth (903) 277-1222 malibupamela@aol.com

Alicia Graham (903) 277-2836 schnip680@yahoo.com

Finding Your place in the world has never been SO easy.....

Bill Spradlin Realtor 903-748-3186

Tracy Spradlin Broker 903-748-2477

903-223-0710

1356 N. Kings Hwy. Nash, TX 75569

Jan Williams Realtor 903-277-5771

Tara Whelchel Realtor 903-293-1429

Karyn Baucum Realtor 903-278-3836

Stephanie Maddox Realtor 903-701-1341

Karen Hammonds Realtor 903-293-2020

Payton Laney Realtor 903-278-9176

Lee Hammonds Realtor 903-748-8858

www.ImpactRealtyOnline.com billsprad@aol.com spradlintd@aol.com