ALT Magazine October 2018 by ALT Magazine

ALT

Charitable Organizations Holiday Catering Top Lawyer Nominees

magazine

covering the ark-la-tex

October 2018 | Volume 12 | Issue 10

Travel to

Yellowstone

As for me and my house we will serve the Lord. (Joshua 24:15) ADVANTAGE ACCOUNT 0% interest financing for 18 months - or 9.99% interest financing for 60 months.

2812 Richmond Rd. Richmond Park Center Texarkana, TX 75503

(903)735-2336

Monday-Saturday 10-6 www.micahsjewelers.com

LET YOUR LOCAL GET YOU BACK IN THE GAME!

The new generation of emergency care.

4646 Cowhorn Creek Texarkana, TX 75503 | 903.838.8000 TexarkanaEmergencyCenter.com Centrally Located East of Central Mall

TEAM

Dr. Matt Young

Open 24/7/365 Board Certified Doctors On-site Lab Pharmacy Local Doctors & Local Ownership Bedside Ultrasound Digital Radiology In House CT Scan Pediatric Friendly

ALT

O c t o b e r 2 0 1 8 / Vo l u m e 1 2 / I s s u e 1 0

magazine

covering the ark-la-tex

Travel to Yellowstone

Ribbon Cuttings

Non-Profits

Scene in ALT

Find Joy in the Holiday Hustle

Fish Tales

Setting the standard

Calendar of Events

On Your Way Out

Financial Focus

Local Rescues

2018 Top Lawyer Nomination

Fo r a d ver t i s i n g info r m atio n, c all 903. 334. 9605 COO / PUBLISHER / FOUNDER Debbie Brower

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Right Where You Are,

CO-FOUNDER Jaclyn Gooding SALES & MARKETING Debbie Brower Jaclyn Gooding 903.334.9605

and we want you to be part of the family! For a limited time,

GET A

GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT Alyssa Bertrand

2.00% INTEREST RATE*

when you open a new BancorpSouth Performance Checking Account.

(2.02% Annual Percentage Yield)

PHOTOGRAPHY Alyssa Bertrand, Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Karen Lansdell CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Debbie Brower, Mike Brower, Michelle Horton, Dustin Stringer FEATURE WRITERS Anne Granado If you have an event you would like to include in our Upcoming Events section, please e-mail us at: info@alt-mag.com.

BancorpSouth.com *The promotional rate for the new Performance Checking Account will apply now through June 30, 2019. The promotional Higher Interest Rate which applies to Performance Checking accounts which meet all 3 requirements set out below, at all times during your statement cycle, is 2.00% with an Annual Percentage Yield of 2.02% on balances of $0 to $30,000. The three requirements which must be met at all times during your statement cycle are: (1) At least one ACH debit or credit transaction, (2) at least 12 debit card purchase transactions, and (3) receive online statements only (no paper statement). The Standard Interest Rate which applies to Performance Checking accounts which do not meet all 3 requirements set forth above, at all times during your statement cycle, is 0.10% with an Annual Percentage Yield of 0.10% on balances of $0 to $30,000. Any portion of your Performance Checking account balance which exceeds $30,000 will only earn the Standard Interest Rate of 0.10% with an Annual Percentage Yield of 0.10%, even if all 3 requirements are met at all times during your statement cycle. Non-Promotional rates apply beginning July 1, 2019. Interest rates and Annual Percentage Yields (APYs) may change at any time without notice. The tiers and corresponding APYs are effective as of August 30, 2018, and are subject to change at our discretion at any time. The minimum opening deposit is $50. Funds used to open the Performance Checking account must be from an external source and not already on deposit at BancorpSouth. Offer available only to recipients of this offer who do not already have a personal checking account with BancorpSouth. Non-US residents and individuals under 18 are not eligible. BancorpSouth employees and immediate family members are not eligible. Account is subject to normal new account opening approval processes and eligibility. Offer subject to change at any time. Fees may reduce your earnings.

06 ALT Magazine | October 2018

A LT - M AG . c o m info@alt-mag.com 101 Slaton Dr. Nash, TX 75569 (903) 334-9605 ALT Magazine is published the 1st business day of every month. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission of ALT Magazine is strictly prohibited. ALT Magazine is distributed free of charge. Direct mail subscriptions are available for $42.00 per year. Contributions from our readers are welcome. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material.

Pinnacle Creative dba ALT Magazine

When your your hearing aids connect When connect directly to to any any cell phone*, directly

life is is on life

Introducing Phonak Audéo™™ B-Direct. Hearing aids Introducing Phonak Audéo B-Direct. Hearing aids that easily connect to any cell phone** and your TV. that easily connect to any cell phone and your TV. Answer calls with a touch of your hearing aids and use them Answer calls with a touch of your hearing aids and use them as a wireless headset to talk hands-free. as a wireless headset to talk hands-free. Enjoy the freedom of being able to easily connect with any ® Bluetooth phone*,ofregardless of the brand.connect with any Enjoy the freedom being able to easily ® * Bluetooth phone , regardless of the brand. Use your hearing aids as wireless TV headphones and experience clear, aids quality, stereo sound on your TV.and Use your hearing as wireless TV headphones experience clear, quality, stereo sound on your TV.

Mike Gilliam Hearing Center 3101 Kennedy Lane, Suite 300Center Mike Gilliam Hearing Texarkana, TX Lane, 75503Suite 300 3101 Kennedy GilliamHearingCenter.com Texarkana, TX 75503 GilliamHearingCenter.com

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 07

From the Publisher

October means fall is here. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the beginning of the holiday season, which for me starts with Halloween. I love this time of year with the leaves falling, the rushing to get ready for Christmas, and just the overall joy of the season. (And of course, watching holiday movies like Hocus Pocus, Christmas Vacation, Holiday Inn, and whatever that movie is where the little boy is going to shoot his eye out!) The temperatures fall and the cool air brings a new vitality to everyone. Traveling with my husband, Mike, we enjoy going to cooler climates. From Alaska to Montana, the crisp air revives us when the temperatures soar over 100 degrees here in Texarkana. I chose this month to write about our travels to Montana since I had a lot of interest from many here. You will find out where we went, where we stayed, and what we enjoyed. It was a delightful experience that I hope to relive again soon. Montana is beautiful and peaceful. Go there if you can. For the time being, I will stick with my home, Texarkana, and enjoy what there is to offer. There are so many non-profit organizations providing support for the people they serve. We have chosen to highlight several of them this month. I know from experience how non-profits struggle to keep going. These are wonderful organizations helping so many in need. Please read their articles and help if you can. Of course, this is breast cancer awareness month as well. Cancer is an ugly word that rears its crazy head and wreaks havoc of the person who has it and everyone who knows them. I hope you will keep everyone in your prayers for whatever cancer they may have. You never know who is affected by it at any given time. God bless you and yoursâ&#x20AC;Ś.

08 ALT Magazine | October 2018

Tooth avulsion

Don’t let all the candy and treats get your down! No one ever expects anything bad to happen, but are you prepared in case something does happen? We CAN Help!

visit www.texarkanaendo.com/newsletters for your free avulsion guide

Root Canal?s!

No worrie Introducing GentleWaveTM

The comfortable, quick and effective root canal procedure.

SPECIALIZING IN ROOT CANALS! 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

Experience the Difference Luxury Apartment Homes

•Granite Countertops • Built in Microwave • Crown Molding •Built in Bookshelves • Self Cleaning Ovens w/Timer •Frost Free Refrigerator w/Ice Maker • Spacious Kitchen w/Island Bar •Extra Large 1, 2, and 3 Bedrooms • Stainless Steel Package •Linen Closets • Covered Parking Available •Pet Friendly and much more! 3515 ARISTA BLV D. | TE XAR KANA , TX | 9 03.255.7869 | www.Arist aAp art ment sTexarka n a . c om ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 09

010 ALT Magazine | October 2018

Old Faithful Erupts

Travel to

Yellowstone by debbie brower

My husband, Mike, and I have never travelled together. When we got married, we knew what we liked. Mike liked to fish and I liked to go to the beach. When we first got married we fished a lot together, but we also took separate times when he would go fish with his buddies and I would take the kids to the beach. In the last few years, we have decided we like to travel together. I still go to the beach and he still goes fishing, but we find interesting places to go that we both enjoy. We have had so much fun going to unknown places and have found our niche with vacations. This past August we chose to travel to Yellowstone National Park. We have been to Alaska several times and wanted to go somewhere different. (However, we will be going back to Alaska next year; our favorite place!) Night falls on Sage Lodge in Emigrant, Montana

As we made our plans, we began looking for places to stay. We visited the National Park website and realized we were too late to stay inside the park. If you want to stay at one of their lodges, you really need to plan at least 9-12 months in advance, not two months like we did! I am a huge Yelp fan and I love to research new places. We were lucky that we found a brand new lodge that was opening two weeks prior to our desired arrival date. Sage Lodge was the perfect choice! Lucky for us that we received the grand opening special rate, which made us even happier. When we arrived, we were greeted by several hosts, welcomed to the lodge, and the check-in was seamless. There was a lake located behind our room which made life so much better. Mike woke up in the morning, gathered his fishing equipment, went down to the lake and fished until I woke up. If guests didn’t have their own equipment, they could “check out” fly fishing equipment from the front desk. The lodge was cozy and welcoming. Not only could you acquire fishing equipment, but there were

tables set up for playing chess and other games, as well as working a puzzle -- my favorite pastime. There were huge windows to watch the fishermen and the local wildlife. We had a family of deer that came to visit every day we were there. In fact, they would circle the cabins (shown above) looking for the best food. Speaking of food, the lodge also had some great dishes. At the time we were there, The Grill, the main restaurant, and spa were not open yet, but the food in The Fireside Room was delightful! From wood-fired pizzas, to Montana Beef Prime Rib, the selection was great. We met many travellers and locals each night we were there. One local asked Mike to go fishing with him on Wednesday, but the times didn’t work for us. (I hate that! LOL) One of our favorite places in addition to Sage, was the Yellowstone Valley Grill. We were told by a local to go there and their recommendation was perfect! If you travel

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 011

Mammoth Hot Springs

to Yellowstone, make sure you make a reservation ahead of time. We discovered that everything books early. I also travelled into Livingston, Montana, one day while Mike fished. It was a cold, rainy day, and I decided I wanted soup, so I Yelped it and came up with The Soup Bar. It was hopping that day for lunch, so as I placed my order, I looked around for a table. I spotted one and took a seat. It was a table for four, but they had no bar seats or tables for one or two, so it would have to work. As I was waiting for my order to arrive, two young gentleman came up and asked if they could sit with me since there were not other places available. I told them sure, there was plenty of room. I had a wonderful time visiting and sharing stories. The men were from the Boston area and had been friends their entire life - one was 83 and one was 84 by a couple of months. They shared that they had joined the Army on the same day, been discharged a day apart (the Armyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fault) and had travelled together for many years. They were visiting family in Livingston. One was a Democrat, one was a

012 ALT Magazine | October 2018

Yellowstone National Park Yellowstone National Park is a nearly 3,500-sq.-mile wilderness recreation area atop a volcanic hot spot. Mostly in Wyoming, the park spreads into parts of Montana and Idaho too. Yellowstone features dramatic canyons, alpine rivers, lush forests, hot springs and gushing geysers, including its most famous, Old Faithful. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also home to hundreds of animal species, including bears, wolves, bison, elk and antelope.

Republican. They made me laugh and smile for over an hour before I told them I had to return. It was one of the highlights of my trip. The scenery for Yellowstone is breathtaking. I loved photographing the many beautiful spots we passed along the way. Everyone was friendly and courteous that we met no matter where we were. Other than having a bad waitress at a restaurant we went to one night, I can’t say that we had any bad experiences while we were there. Visiting all of the “attractions” could be a little daunting for some. There are lots of cars vying for parking spaces. We got lucky most of the time and parked close by. Put on your hiking shoes because you will be walking a good bit, much of it uphill. It is so worth it though! Whether we were at waterfalls, Old Faithful, the Fountain Paint Pots, Mammoth Hot Springs, or any number of places, the views were amazing. Driving down the roads through the mountains, steam would be escaping out of nowhere. The Yellowstone

River moved through the mountains, flowing from south to north. We had seen a lot of information about wildlife, but we were not lucky enough to see a lot. We saw a few elk and deer, but no bison (other than in a pasture) and no bears. We did, however, go down a road we were told had some great fishing spots. That road allegedly had a home owned by Robert Redford. We were told we had to go past a certain spot before we could fish. So off we went. It was a long way back into a canyon. We were pretty good until we started seeing signs that said “Bears abundant. Use caution.” Even though we had bear spray, we decided to turn around and find another spot. For those on my Facebook page, you know about that spot and Mike’s trek to get back across the stream. He almost floated down the river before he decided to do what I told him to do! LOL If you enjoy scenic vacations, Yellowstone is something you should not miss. It was definitely something I can check off my bucket list. Now, on to the beach!

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 013

Don’t let a little spilt

October Special $1,699.00

coffee get you Down

this fall!

903.949.6863 4116 GIBSON LANE | BEHIND TARGET

2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Brick Homes • Full Kitchen w/Stainless Steel Appliances • Gated Community • Water, Electric & Trash Service • 2 Meals Served Daily In Clubhouse • Weekly Housekeeping • Lawn Maintenance • Pet Friendly • Small Private Back Yard • Fitness Room & Library 150 Bella Vista Circle | Texarkana, Texas bellavistatx.com | 903.792.0243

a MID-SOUTH health care company

A nice plAce for your pArents during fAmily week!

IT'S NOT A HOTEL... IT'S A RESIDENCE! • Spacious Studio & One Bedroom • Free Wi-Fi in All Suites & Lobby • Convenient 24-hour Market • Lower Rates for Longer Stays Suites • Free Grocery Delivery • Fully Equipped In-suite Kitchens • Business Center Services • Free Daily Hot Breakfast

• Dry Cleaning & On-site Laundry • Pet-Friendly • Complimentary Paul Mitchell • Nearby Restaurants, Shopping products & Movie Theater

3900 St. Michael Drive | Texarkana, TX 75503 | 1-430-200-0742 | ResidenceInnTexarkana.com 014 ALT Magazine | October 2018

5483 Summerhill Road | Texarkana, TX 75503 903.223.5931 | ExpressCare4u.com

Model: Brooke Bowen

Have a Halloween to remember!

3117 Kennedy Lane • Texarkana, TX 75503 • 903.793.1570 TraditionsBridalandFormal.com

Fall 2018 4059 Summerhill Square | Texarkana, TX | 903-792-0056 abbygayle’s_gayles | Abby Gayle’s and Gayle’s ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 015

Texarkana Baptist Children's Home by anne granado

“When most people think of a children’s home, they may still have an antiquated idea in their mind of an orphanage or the sterile environment of an institution,” Heather Thompson, Director of the Texarkana Baptist Children’s Home in Texarkana, Arkansas, says. The media surely paints a bleak picture of the lives of children in a home, but Heather and the staff at Texarkana Baptist Children’s Home strive to create a true home environment for kids ages 5-17 living there. When you think of the Texarkana Baptist Children’s Home, erase the picture you may have in your mind and instead imagine kids laughing and playing together. Imagine family meals and vacations. Imagine celebrating birthdays and holidays together. “If you grew up in the 1980s, you probably spent time riding bicycles, jumping on trampolines, and catching fireflies in the summer,” Heather says, “Maybe you spent your time fishing on a pond, playing football or basketball, jumping rope with your friends, and drawing chalk all over your sidewalk. This is what our days and nights look like. If you can recall a time before electronics took over society, back when people actually spent quality time together with people instead of on social media, that is what our home looks like: family spending time with family.” Heather Thompson has always had a heart for ministry. Even though she worked for Cable One advertising for almost 10 years, she spent many vacations doing mission work in Africa. She had several missionary friends in Kenya, and Heather loved to travel to Africa to help with Vacation Bible School, church construction, and even working in an orphanage. “One day, I quit

016 ALT Magazine | October 2018

Cable One Advertising to go do mission work in Africa full time. It’s what I enjoyed and I felt like I was living in that period of time that I couldn’t get back. Since it was what gave me the sense of fulfillment, I was going to go do it,” Heather says. Heather lived in Africa for six months doing mission work full time. When she came back to the States for Christmas in 2010, she heard that the previous director of the Home had passed away. Heather had always attended the County Avenue Baptist Church (now Northern Hills Baptist Church) that was associated with the Home, and she had taught Sunday School for several of the teenage girls who were living there. “I was torn between the two mission fields, but in the end, I didn’t want the children in the Home to think that someone they knew wouldn’t fight for them,” Heather said. Though she didn’t think she would get hired, they called Heather for the job and the rest is history. Since then, she has had the opportunity to travel back to Africa for mission work, and she has even taken three of the high school seniors living in the home with her. “I believe that when you travel outside of America, you come back with a totally different perspective. You get to see a whole new culture and how they live and how they suffer,” Heather says. “I don’t want our kids to think that they have the short end of the stick. Even if they are in a children’s home, there is always someone overseas, and even in Texarkana, who has a harder life. We love offering this opportunity to

do mission work to our kids because I think it really brings them a truer sense of reality and balance.” The Texarkana Baptist Children’s Home was formally organized in 1907, and it has been in continuous operation since its founding. The Arkansas Missionary Baptist Association of Churches elected the original trustees to organize a corporation for the purpose of “erecting and maintaining a home to care for orphan, dependent, and neglected children; to provide for them a suitable refuge, to see after their needs for food, shelter, clothes; to educate them and to provide training that will lead them to Christ and everlasting life.” “The goal of our Home is much like the goal of all good parents. We want to see our children thrive as adults. We want our kiddos to become the best parents possible for their own children one day,” Heather says. “We tell our kids that ‘God created you for a purpose, a plan, and

“We tell our kids that ‘God created you for a purpose, a plan, and a calling.’ We want every one of our kids to truly understand how much they are loved by God, and that for every life He creates, He has something unique and special that He wants to accomplish through them..."

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 017

“I wish I knew how to tell people how to help. We live in times that are becoming more challenging to those who hold Christian values. We have faithfully served children since 1907, and although there are those who want to see Christian child care shut down, we remain committed to serve.” a calling.’ We want every one of our kids to truly understand how much they are loved by God, and that for every life He creates, He has something unique and special that He wants to accomplish through them. Life is not meant to be a guessing game of mere luck and chance. God is sovereign and active in every life.” The Children’s Home is owned and operated by the churches composing the State Association of Missionary Baptist Churches of Arkansas. They are not an adoption agency, so children are not adopted out of the Home. Instead, to promote stability and a sense of well-being and belonging, long term commitments are made to children until each one reaches the age of majority or until custody is changed. Children may continue to live at the Home while attaining higher or post-secondary education. “There’s a saying we all know, ‘It’s not how you start; it’s how you finish.’ Our kiddos’ lives may include a Children’s Home somewhere near the start, but what will matter most is how they finish,” Heather says. “It is never a child’s fault if they are born into an unhealthy living situation. But it is within the power of that child, when they become an adult, to change the legacies of their future generations. That is our goal.” Every child who comes to the Home comes with some varying degree of neglect or abuse, and the Home seeks to help these kids break the cycle. They offer counseling services to their children, which can be an important part of helping the kids process what is happening in their lives and to learn to cope with the wide range of emotions. The staff at the Home works hard to live their lives as an example. “Everyone tends 018 ALT Magazine | October 2018

to repeat the things we grow up with, but hopefully, what our kids will remember is how they were raised here,” Heather says. “Everything from our family activities, trips, devotionals, prayers before meals, family dinners, and celebrations will be a part of their memories, and we pray these help to break the cycle of instability within their family. We want them to know they can change their future and the future of their children.” Inside the home, Heather and the staff work hard to make sure the lives of their children are as much like the lives of any other child in our community. Each child has their own bedroom and bathroom, and they attend Trinity Christian School or public school at Texarkana Arkansas School District. “For kiddos who pursue college or trade school in Texarkana, we provide free, independent living on our campus,” Heather says. “For those who choose college or a trade school out of town, we provide a monthly monetary stipend until those degrees are completed. Once the degree is completed, we provide a lump sum to go towards student loans.” On their website, under “Homeline,” the Home posts a newsletter every quarter featuring updates on past and current residents, updates on special events at the home, including birthdays, and a special section called ‘Wishing Well’ that expresses a current need. In the past, donors have given everything from a student driving vehicle, to a playground to a new floor in the gym. “Actually, most donations are not even things that we necessarily promote or push for. We just receive a phone call and someone asks if we need this item. A lot of the stuff we get

comes from the right people at the right time and only God can do that,” Heather says. “For example, that student driving vehicle wasn’t something we even dreamed of, but we had four teenagers. This family donated a 2009 Buick Enclave, and we go driving every day to make sure that when these children leave us at 18, they know how to drive. Recently, we were able to do a gymnasium remodel. We repainted it and put in a new floor. We also had an influx of children age 3-6, and we realized we needed a fenced in area for the little kids. Someone donated money to help with fencing. Everything that people donate helps enhance the facility, make it safe, and make it state-of-the-art for our kids.”

to be in a real family with Christian values. We need people who will extend and show love and forgiveness to kids who may seem unresponsive to their efforts.” Unfortunately, upcoming legislation is trying to shut down children’s homes like this one. The Family First Prevention Services Act will go into effect October of 2019. “The Annie E. Casey Foundation lobbied hard for the passage of this bill. They view children’s homes as ‘non-effective’ and ‘costly.’ Those quotes are directly from their website,” Heather says. “This upcoming legislation will be a huge challenge not only to Texarkana Baptist Children’s Home, but to every other Home like ours in America. Texarkana Baptist Children’s Home takes no money from the state of Arkansas or from our federal government. We do not cost tax- payers any money. For anyone who may hold the opinion that Homes like ours are ‘non-effective,’ I extend the invitation to come and visit our Home.”

The Home also accepts donations on their website for various funds including general operating, scholarships, birthday, children’s activities, special projects, and endowments. However, one of the biggest needs is not something monetary or physical, but the gift of time. Across the state of Arkansas, it is hard to recruit and retain house parents for the Home. These parents move into a two bedroom, two bathroom apartment in the facility with the kids. They are asked to parent and love these kids like they are their own. However, this can be taxing on a person who has to live in an environment with constantly fluctuating attitudes, and not knowing what may trigger a traumatic memory. “It is always the hardest position to fill,” Heather says. “Across the state, the average time a house parent stays is about 18 months. We need people with a heart for kids to show them what it is like

Many states are opting out of the Act, but Heather is worried about how it will affect group homes in Arkansas. “It has the potential to change childcare here, but I’m just not sure how,” Heather says. “I wish I knew how to tell people how to help. We live in times that are becoming more challenging to those who hold Christian values. We have faithfully served children since 1907, and although there are those who want to see Christian child care shut down, we remain committed to serve.”

P RO U DLY S PO N S O R E D I N PA RT BY:

MASTERWORKS I

at 6:40PM

FEATURING Steven Jarvi, guest conductor

Kiril Laskarov, violin

Steven Jarvi, guest conductor, and Kiril Laskarov on the 1712 Le Brun Stradivarius Violin.

903-792-4992

Student tickets available with ID, Group Discounts available. Visit the Perot Theatre Box Office at 219 Main Street, Texarkana, TX.

TEXAR of

NA KA

Concert Preview

A NSA

T IC KE T INF O $26, $38, $50

Saturday, October 6, 2018 Perot Theatre at 7:30PM

CITY

MUSICAL FRIENDS Anonymous Music-Lover (BancorpSouth Trustee) Remica and Danny Gray Suzy and Victor Hlavinka Barbara and Paul McCash Mike and Pete Mankins Bobbie A. Atkinson Foundation

T E X A R K A N A S Y M P H O N Y. O R G ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 019

Services Breed Specific Cut De-Shedding Treatment Hair Coloring Flea Dip Teeth Cleaning Daycare & Boarding Dog Microchip Available Is your life super busy? We Can Help!

We Now offer

pick-up services!

We will pick up and deliver your baby to and from your home!

Greg P Jones and Jennie Parker Owners

(903) 306-2003

4032 Summerhill Square . Texarkana, TX 75503

020 ALT Magazine | October 2018

Book Appointment 903.293.1557

Secure your family’s future.

Call us today. 6500 Summerhill Rd., Suite 204 Texarkana, TX 75503

www.moorecapitalinvest.com

1293 Myrtle Springs • Texarkana, Texas 75503 (903) 293-1557 • www.thewhitegown.us

Maggie Sottero Trunk Show September 28 - October 12 $150 off dress during show!

Texarkana Convention Center

It’s Time To Take Your Event Weddings • Corporate Events • Black Tie Affairs • Galas • & More...

903.255.4664 903.792.1065

2910 S. Cowhorn Creek Loop, Texarkana, Texas 75503 Texarkana.hgi.com | sales@texarkanaconventioncenter.com

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 021

Lancer Legacy Ranch RESTORINGHEROES

by anne granado

“On the battlefield, the military pledges to leave no man behind. As a nation, let it be our pledge that when they return home, we leave no veteran behind,” Dan Lipinski once said. The reentry from military to civilian life can be tremendously hard for veterans as they struggle to make sense of “normal” life after the experiences they have lived through. However, Lancer Legacy Ranch in Maud, Texas, seeks to give veterans in our community a haven of support and a renewed sense of purpose. Lancer Legacy Ranch’s mission is to “empower veterans to reclaim their lives by helping them identify obstacles to success, providing temporary housing when necessary and connecting them with medical, legal, educational and employment resources within the community.” “By and large our country as a whole treats our veterans wonderfully. We learned a lot of lessons from our Vietnam veterans. I think, as a country, we disgraced those veterans, but things really turned around in the 1990s. Those Vietnam vets made sure that no generation of veteran was ever treated that way again, so I credit the Vietnam veterans for this change,” Matt says. “I think there are not more facilities like ours because veterans tend to sit back and wait for the government to solve the problems that veterans have. However, in the field, we are trained to look out for our brothers. I have your six, and you have my six. I’m not sure why it should be any different when we return.” Matt Fisk was born in Dequeen, Arkansas, and he joined the Army in 1997. As an enlisted Infantryman he deployed in support of Operation Noble Anvil during the Kosovo War of 1999. He earned a Combat Infantryman Badge during the Iraqi Shia uprising in 2004. In 2007 he commissioned as an Ordnance officer eventually retiring at the rank of captain. “I joined the army because our culture does not have a mechanism whereby a young man can tell when he becomes a man. For me, it was a rite of passage to find out if I had what it takes. I wanted to use the army as a way to answer that question,” Matt says. “From the Army, I learned, primarily, discipline. It doesn’t matter how long you stay in the military, it changes you. You come out different. After my first 022 ALT Magazine | October 2018

four years in the military, I got out for a while. I got a job working with teenage boys, and I had to pass a psych evaluation first. It came by saying that I had ‘bizarre mentation.’ I asked the psychiatrist about it, and she asked if I was in the military. She said that she sees it all the time with military personnel. When you come out of the military, you just have a different way of looking at the world and framing things.” Matt holds a degree in criminal justice as well as being recognized as a Master Gardener in the Cypress Basin Master Gardener’s Club. Matt is a Certified Peer Counselor with the state of Texas, trained to use his recovery store to assist in the healing of other veterans. His 2016 book, Black Knights, Dark Days, documents his unit’s actions in Iraq as well as his journey out of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Matt is one of many veterans in PTSD. In fact, The U.S. Department for Veteran’s Affairs estimates that about 11-20% of veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Enduring Freedom (OEF) have PTSD in a given year. “I have been healed from PTSD for over two years. I have not had a single symptom in two years and that came from a miraculous intervention by God in church in June 2016,” Matt says. “Imagine you have a chance to watch someone film your worst day, and you get your worst day played in front of you over and over again. I had that opportunity about a year after I was healed. A documentary came out, and I could watch my gunner getting killed over and over again. But, I still didn’t have a symptom, so I have absolute certainty that I am healed. I think that healing comes from two things, and I tell the veterans who come to see me the same things. First, you have to stop behaviors that harm you, whether that is drug addiction, alcoholism, etc. And a lot of veterans do things to make themselves feel better that actually do more harm than good. I also think you have to forgive the people who caused this trauma for you, whether that be at home before you enlisted or when you were deployed. So, when they come to us, I will walk them through the spiritual side of healing. I know there are a lot of veterans who don’t want anything to do with it, and there are things that can be done to help a veteran live and cope with their PTSD just fine. They can change their diet, exercise, and use their vocation to stay busy, so I leave

the choice up to them.” Lancer Legacy Ranch actually began in the middle of a fire fight in Sadr City, Iraq on April 4, 2004. During a routine humanitarian patrol, a platoon from the Lancer Battalion was ambushed by 10,000 members of a Shia militia. With half their vehicles destroyed and casualties mounting, the platoon took shelter in a nearby alley. The battalion sprang into action by launching a rescue mission that would succeed but only at great cost. Seven Lancers and a tank crew member from another unit died before the fighting ended. “On that day, bonds were forged between men that I now call ‘brothers,’" Matt says. “We would have perished except for the bravery of the rescue force. Men died that day while saving my life. My three-year-old daughter would not be alive except for their sacrifice. I met the mother of one of the fallen, and I promised her that I would do what I can to honor her son. We carry their legacy.” Matt’s platoon alone took part in over 214 combat missions before they returned to Fort Hood to a life that now seemed dull by comparison. The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan became a revolving door. Those who stayed in the service were often home only long enough to complete the year of unit training and refit period before going back. In fact, The Lancer Battalion returned to Sadr City again by 2006 and stayed there for almost 16 months. “For some, especially the veterans of the first deployment, this was just fine. Many were angry to still be alive and sought a warrior’s death to end the guilt of surviving,” Matt says. “The year they had spent with loved ones had seemed strange. They had honed new skills and instincts in battle, but now they couldn’t turn them off.” However, after years of the military grind, soldiers returned home, retired and tried to fit back into civilian life. The 1st Cavalry Division erected a monument to the fallen from the 2004-2005 deployment. “It became our touchstone, a rally point that we sought out on the anniversary of our first battle,” Matt says. “Not many came at first. We preferred to lick our wounds alone or sought to medicate ourselves in isolation as we tried to make sense of how we came to be trapped inside ourselves, reliving our worst day over and over.” After ten years, a committee was formed to host a reunion of the battalion’s 2004 deployment at Fort Hood. They gathered by the hundreds on a cool April day and emotions swelled during speeches from leaders and family members. “For many of us it was the first time that we had shown any visible sign of emotion in ten years. All this time we had done whatever was necessary to quell the firestorm of guilt, the endless nightmares, the crippling depression. Now we were face to face with

This hub of our outreach program offers a chance to bring veterans and the community back together, enhancing life for both. each other, an event that so many of us had dreaded because we were now face to face with the past,” Matt says. When the speeches ended, the men were crowded together near the memorial, and as they began to hug, joke, and catch up with one another, Matt says they began to feel “normal”. The camaraderie they had been missing was evident as they spent time together that day, and the seed was planted for Lancer Legacy Ranch. Members of Red Platoon, Charlie Company 2/5, the Lancer Battalion of 1st Cavalry Division began Lancer Legacy Ranch on Memorial Day of 2015. “We were the ones who felt so keenly a sense of debt to the men and women of our battalion task force who had, without any regard of their own safety, rode to our rescue in the back of unarmored trucks,” Matt says. “Our very lives were a gift, and we wanted to return the favor by making a difference in the lives of other veterans. Our chief advantage was the experience of combat and PTSD that provided a baseline of trust with service members. It is often difficult for civilian counselors to bridge that gap and create a rapport. In our case, veterans who show up with those issues automatically know that we get it.” The name for the ranch came organically. Lancer was their battalion nickname; Legacy expresses their desire to honor the sacrifice of our service members. Ranch was added because the goal is to one day be a self-sustaining ranch. “Our initial concept, what I call Lancer, version 1, was to create a selfsustaining homestead as the backdrop for delivering peer counseling,” Matt says. “In other words, we grew our own food, raised livestock and tested every internet theory about sustainable living that we could

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 023

afford in an effort to discover best practices. Over the course of two years we hosted 64 veterans and learned valuable lessons about what works (and what doesn’t) both in dealing with PTSD and in going ‘off grid.’ Our impact was small to match our shoestring budget, yet we wanted to do more. Our primary challenges were space and money. We only had an RV and a small cabin to house veterans, so most stays were only on the weekend. That is really not enough time to make a lasting impact.” Lancer 2.0, the current facility, came as a windfall opportunity to grow their organization. Catherine Betts, the Cass County Probation Supervisor, is an Air Force veteran who wanted to offer their abandoned restitution center, or jail, as a place to serve veterans. By moving into this facility, they’ve been able to increase the number of beds from two to twenty four. Plus, they now have a shop, classrooms, a clinic, an industrial site kitchen, a community center and more land. “In Lancer, version 1, our biggest struggle was finding a way to keep veterans with us for a longer period of time. Most would come for a weekend or a day and then go back to their regular life, but that’s not enough time to dig into the issues and start overcoming some things,” Matt says. “It’s enough to get the ball rolling, but we never saw results beyond some crying and hugging around the campfire. The success story I always think about is the veteran who stayed with us for a year. When he came to us, he didn’t want anything to do with the outside world. He was extremely introverted. After a year, he started college for radiology, and now he’s getting married. I attribute that success to the length of time we had with this veteran. Now with Lancer 2.0, we have more room, the more time we have with veterans, the bigger impact we are going to have.” 024 ALT Magazine | October 2018

Lancer Legacy Ranch offers a full range of service options: financial assistance, transportation, benefits counseling, legal assistance, vocational training, apprenticeship programs, employment assistance, peer counseling, group therapy, spiritual guidance, community service opportunities, and more. “We chartered an American Legion post within our walls. We have partnered with Community Services of Northeast Texas (CSNT) and the United States Service Dog Association. But the primary gift we offer veterans is renewed purpose,” Matt says. If a veteran is seeking residential services, there is a program designed for veterans who need a place to stay while finding new directions for their lives. For this program, there is an application process with only a few restrictions: addicts must complete at least 30 days of treatment prior to placement, no sex offenses, no serious felonies. “LLR serves veterans of all military branches who are homeless, in danger of becoming homeless or who are in need of transitional housing. We serve at-risk veterans by meeting their basic perceived needs first and then helping them create long-term strategies for success,” Matt says, “Obviously every veteran has different needs and we position ourselves to meet those needs on an individual basis. During the preliminary intake process we will ask a series of questions to help identify the specific goals and obstacles facing the veteran. Once the applicant completes the screening interview we will craft an individual case plan and assign a veteran mentor to help keep the resident on task.” The vision that the staff has for Lancer Legacy Ranch includes inviting the community to interact with veterans at the facility. In spring 2018, they opened a community center and cyber cafe. “This hub of our outreach program offers a chance to bring veterans and the community back together, enhancing life for both. Here we will offer recreation, food, access to the internet, weekend workshops and continuing education,” Matt says. “The real magic happens when a veteran who struggles with isolation shares a game of chess with a civilian who cared enough to stop in and listen. Once we have sufficient resources in place we will take the fight to the streets, as it were, by identifying impoverished and elderly citizens with

whom to share our food and labor.” Plans for the future of Lancer Legacy include expanding their ability to be a self-sustaining ranch by producing food and renewable energy. By 2019, they also hope to open a facility for women. The staff has a true vision for what the ranch could be, and they hope to make that happen. Right now, the only obstacle is money. Funds are used almost exclusively for veteran assistance. All staff, including Matt, are unpaid volunteers. The only overhead costs are the website and a post office box. With a few notable exceptions, they have provided their own support from personal savings and income. Besides a monetary donation, the facility also accepts furniture, food and other items. Anything they cannot use, they put in the annual yard sale. However, Matt’s biggest goal is to eventually become a self-sustaining ranch that is resource for the community. “Right now we are in the planning process for a new resident training program. We continue to learn from our trial and error about what works and what doesn’t work. We are transitioning to a very structured, three phase approach to help these guys get back on their feet,” Matt says. “We want to work this new program the first week of January 2019 and refine that over the next year. We want to be able to run 12 veterans at any given time through our program here, and we want to find housing

in Texarkana for our Phase III. We want to take the training wheels off and allow veterans to have their own place and pay bills consistently. We want to have nine full time staff members, and we want to be able to sustain ourselves. We want to be in the position to not need a single donation or grant and to give more than we receive. I think that’s something extremely good for veteran mentality. They just want to serve. That’s why they raised their right hand and served their country.” For Matt and the staff at Lancer Legacy Ranch, the goal is to help as many veterans as they can. They share a feeling of being blessed with more time, and they want to make it count. “Every morning I wake up, and then my three-year-old girl wakes up. Every morning she says, ‘Good morning! I love you,’ and the only reason I have that is because of what Eddie and Robert and all these guys gave for me,” Matt says. “My little girl owes her life to them. I got a second chance. At first, I was so angry that I was still alive, but once I accepted that gift, and looked at it like a gift, it made all the difference in the world. I want to make their sacrifice count for something rather than to waste another minute in bitterness.”

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 025

Angel Fund Foundation

Repeat after me: I am STRONGER than this challenge. And this challenge is making me even STRONGER.

Angel Fund Foundation is a local 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization, started in 2006 by Texarkana residents, Charles and Beth Morgan. Beth was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma in 1998. It was through her journey and healing that she became aware of the staggering cost of cancer treatment. While Beth was fortunate enough to be able to pay for her medical care, she set out to provide funds to cancer patients in our area who could not afford their care. Angel Fund’s purpose is to help defray the staggering costs of cancer treatments when a cancer patient has run out of options, for those who have no other means to pay for their expenses due to their cancer. The organization’s financial support of cancer patients, in many cases, is life-changing! With all volunteers (no paid positions) within Angel Fund, 100% of all donations go directly to helping cancer patients. They have a dedicated 12-member board of directors and a small group of hard working volunteers that handle the work-load within the organization. Kim Glass became involved after her mother died from Metastatic Breast Cancer in 2010. “I had a great desire to help individuals with cancer and I wanted an organization where I could really be used in her honor. After hearing about Angel Fund Foundation, I knew it was the right place for me,” says Kim. She currently serves on the board and as fundraising chair heading up 026 ALT Magazine | October 2018

their annual fundraiser, Putt for a Purpose, which is held in September each year. Angel Fund Foundation has paid over $255,000 in assistance for over 215 patients in the Texarkana area, mostly through private donations and our annual fundraiser. They help with many issues, such as when a small business owner has depleted their savings and run out of money or when insurance will pay for part, but not all of the treatment or when individuals simply do not have insurance and the cost of treatment is just too expensive to afford. These are just a few examples in which they provide necessary life changing assistance. All financial aid given is made directly to the providers. They pay for various things after diagnosis including doctors & clinic fees, port placement, anesthesiology,

A toast-worthy plan does more than ensure you can maintain your lifestyle, now and well into the future. It also helps you be prepared for what’s next. Whether that’s managing your legacy through a well-craaed estate plan or making the most of charitable giving. A Raymond James advisor can lay the groundwork with your fulﬁlling next chapter in mind. LIFE WELL PLANNED.

Beth Morgan

Dustin Stringer, AAMS

lymphedema sleeves, prescriptions and much more.

Financial Advisor

Angel Fund has been able to help so many more each year as more money is raised. They have also established great relationships with the treatment centers and doctors in our area, which is a tremendous help. In the future, Angel Fund’s goal is to continue providing financial assistance to patients and to bring awareness to their foundation. They are always seeking new volunteers and would love to see a larger office space donated. Beth Morgan, founder and executive director of Angel Fund Foundation, saw a need in our community. Through her vision, they have reached and helped many cancer patients. They are blessed to assist, even if in a small way, to ensure patients receive timely and necessary medical care. “Each of our patients, their stories, their fight and their gratefulness are what make us continue,” Kim shares.

1620 North Kings Hwy Nash, TX 75569 T 903.223.0011 // FAX 903.223.0589 dustin.stringer@raymondjames.com www.stringerwealthmanagement.net Securiies oﬀered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. © 2018 Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services oﬀered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.

903-793-4831 ahern@TexarkanaMuseums.org 219 N State Line Ave. Texarkana, Texas

After Dark Tours of Mourning Customs Tour will start at the P. J. Ahern Home (403 Laurel St, Texarkana AR) and end at the Ace of Clubs House (420 Pine St, Texarkana TX).

•cost $15 \ $10 Members (Call for members code) •Tickets must be purchased in advance •tickets Available at www.texarkanamuseum.org/shoponline/ • Attendees must be 13 or older.

October 20th 7 pm

October 27th 7 pm

This program was made possible in part with a grant from Humanities Texas, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities and a grant from the Department of Arkansas Heritage, funded by your 1/8 cent conservation tax, Amendment 75

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 027

The Landing is Celebrate Recovery’s student ministry geared towards Junior High and High School age students. This curriculum is designed to mirror the same material as the adult Celebrate Recovery curriculum, only packaged for students. The Landing, located at First Baptist Church - Texarkana, exists to provide a safe place for our students to process life and the struggles that accompany it, provide tools to help them live emotionally and spiritually healthy lives, and point them towards the freedom found in Jesus Christ. Jason Atkinson and his wife, Carrie, are therapeutic foster parents and have worked with troubled kids. Jason was also a teacher at both Arkansas and Texas High. “Because of our background and desire to help children in tough situations, we were approached by the church to lead this program. We were excited at the opportunity,” Jason explains.

If you are a teen, or know of a teen who is struggling with hurts, hang-ups, and habits, please consider The Landing.

3015 Moores Lane Texarkana, Texas 75503 903-277-2234

028 ALT Magazine | October 2018

The Landing is open to all students, not just those in the church. It gives students the tools to walk with Jesus and overcome the difficulties they will face throughout life by the power of His Holy Spirit. The program does not just impact the students that go through it, it impacts their families, friends, schools, and the community. It helps to stop the cycle of disfunction. The results? Young people learn that they are not in control of their lives. They learn to forgive and make amends to those they have wronged. Most importantly, they learn that overcoming hurts, hang-ups, and habits can only be done through the power of Jesus Christ. “We are currently working to bring more awareness of our program by working with other churches, schools, and groups like the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Eric Akin has been a great help to get our program in front of students,” Jason says.

In the next three to five years The Landing hopes to grow in order to reach more students. They would like to be able to split the group into smaller groups according to grade; 6th-8th and 9th-12th. They are also looking forward to Church on the Rock starting The Landing at their church. Priorities right now are raising awareness about the program and working with the schools and local church youth groups. Some of the barriers they see are the school’s reluctance to allow a faith-based ministry on campus and churches not wanting to send their youth to a different church. We hope to show them that this ministry is not an FBC Texarkana youth group, but a ministry to all students that are looking for hope in their struggles. The Landing is growing and they hope to see young people changed by the power of prayer, study, and the Holy Spirit. If you are a teen, or know of a teen who is struggling with hurts, hangups, and habits, please consider The Landing.

paint A little bit of ine w A whole lot of

A little bit of

•Private Parties •Team Building •Bachelorette Parties /Bridal Showers •Birthday Parties •Kidz Classes

fun!

Paint

Like no one is watching 2700 Richmond Rd, Suite 1 | Texarkana, TX 75503 903-244-7879 | www.paintingwithatwist.com/texarkana

Unlock real tax savings with proactive tax strategies! The new tax law has real consequences Do you have a business? Have you done a Tax Plan? -If the answer is NOYou are losing tax dollars!

Call Today To Schedule Your FREE 90 Minute Tax Discovery Session. 3201 Richmond Rd., Ste A Texarkana, TX 75503 (903) 793-0042 ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 029

Haven Homes Courage does not always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying "I will try again tomorrow". Haven Homes, created under Jeni Lynn Ministries, is a non-profit organization. Established in July of 2013, Haven is a faithbased ministry whose purpose is to provide safe housing that is conducive to drug and alcohol rehabilitation. They operate solely on donations from individuals, businesses, churches and the grace of God to meet their needs. They are made up of Christian volunteers, community leaders, teachers and civic communities. For the past five years, Haven Homes has served the women from Bowie County Women’s Center by offering them a safe place to transition to when they complete their program. As a part of the application process, the women commit to reside at Haven for six months while following the guidelines set out for them. God has blessed them with over 100 women who have come through the doors of Haven over the last five years. They are proud to say that we have many success stories of God’s saving grace. Many people who have volunteered with and followed Haven’s ministry closely have seen the fruit of the ministry. They set a high standard for the women at Haven. These women are employed all over the city, flourish in those jobs, move into homes of their own, and become leaders in the community, all while leading a sober and fulfilled life. Stacey Smallwood, a past BCWC and Haven resident, now serves on the Haven board. Restoration is a big word at Haven, seeing many moms restored to their children and daughters restored to parents, as well as marriages restored. Most importantly, the ladies come to Haven with an awareness that they must stay spiritually healthy to walk out their sobriety. Those involved with Haven then get the honor 030 ALT Magazine | October 2018

of watching them grow in their relationship with Jesus. They offer them opportunities to grow spiritually by encouraging community within a church body, retreats, Christian concerts and faith-based recovery through Celebrate Recovery and AA. The mission at Haven is to bring restoration to broken people through grace-based discipleship. Their vision states that Haven Homes is a safe place that provides a home for hurting people where, through God’s grace, they can receive love, hope, joy and healing. Through consistent love, the women begin to trust again, learn to believe and have hope. Above all, they know they are loved by Jesus and loved by the volunteers at Haven. “I was going to the Women’s Center on a weekly basis doing a bible study on Monday afternoons. Some ladies and myself from my church started doing this a month or so after the Women’s Center opened," Jeni Eldridge shares. “We witnessed some of the women that we got to know graduate from the Center with nowhere to go. Some of their home environments were not suitable for them to go back to and some of them just did not have a home to go to. These ladies were finishing this incredible 10 month or longer program and being forced to seek refuge at Salvation Army or the Battered Women’s Shelter because that was the only option they had.” Jeni continues, “God laid it on my heart to open a home for these ladies. I shared this vision with some of the ladies at my church. Then I contacted my niece in Houston who is an attorney and she began the process of setting up the non-profit. I approached members of my community to make up the board of

Haven. My board informed me that we must raise $10,000 before we could go any further. Within a couple of months, we had the $10,000 and enough donations to furnish our home completely and our second home a year later. A perfect example of ‘if you hear and obey God will provide.’ My heart has always been beyond grateful to every person and every church who gave financially and materially into this mission and continues to give today.” Haven’s homes can house 13 ladies and they are proud to say that today they are both to capacity. In the five years we have been in existence we have only taken women from Bowie County Women's Center. There are several reasons for this. Firstly, these ladies have lived together for at least 10 months. They bring the same tools with them to walk a life of sobriety. They have learned how to hold each other accountable. The program they have been in is by far one of the best recovery programs in the state of Texas and probably in the nation. They come out knowing who they are and not only that, but who they can become if they continue the path they have been taught. They are healthy physically, spiritually and for the most part, emotionally. The life of drug addiction can leave you very scared, and can take years to heal. Not all make it the first-time around, but the percentage rate is one of the highest in the state. Not only are the ladies impacted by Haven’s ministry but so are their families as they watch them being restored. Volunteers interact with the families of the ladies often during their stay at Haven. Some of the families have become some of their most faithful contributors. Haven offers them accountability and a chance to begin to restore often damaged relationships with family. “One of the greatest rewards is when I get to witness mothers being reunited with their children,” Jeni exclaims.

So what does the future hold? “Almost a year ago, some men came to me and expressed the need for faith-based, safe housing for men in Texarkana. We expanded our board with people in our community who saw the same need and who shared a passion for this type of restoration within our community,” Jeni states. “Our board began praying about a location and, by God’s grace, we now have a contract on the Family Life Center located at 7th St. and Summerhill Rd. This facility has been a part of the House of Refuge Church that is located on the same property.” Haven started a capital campaign the beginning of September and are asking for donations from individuals and business who see the need for a facility for this purpose. Part of their long-term goal is to open a home for women coming off the streets, jail, and prison and a home for women and children. All these programs will be work/therapy programs where everyone will have an opportunity to develop job skills. There will also be parenting classes, budgeting classes, and classes that will allow residents to grow spiritually. “We will need the help of our community to

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 031

give your time, talents, energy and prayers to speak truth into the lives of these individuals,” Jeni says. The needs will be endless, but they are confident God will provide. Another goal is to educate the people of our city and surrounding areas of the devastation drugs are having on our society, and our community in particular. The drug epidemic is rampant in our nation, state, county and city. Addiction and alcoholism are no respecter of persons from the poorest of families to the wealthiest. Jeni’s own family has dealt with the devastation of this disease. They have been among the more blessed. "Many people I know have lost loved ones due to alcohol/addiction issues. I decided to turn the struggle my family has walked through to good and provide safe environments to those desiring help. I have learned so much in the last five years of the struggles these individuals go through just to stay sober daily,” Jeni shares. Most must make a conscious effort everyday not to use or drink. They must work a program and have strong accountability and above everything they must know their higher power Jesus Christ and that He and He alone will get them through each day. The people Jeni has encountered on this journey are the most humble, grateful, giving, talented people on the face of the earth. 80% of the felons in Bowie County have drug related charges. They are not criminals, they have a drug and alcohol problem that have created criminal behavior. Opioid overdose is the #1 cause of death in the United States. If this continues we will have 500,000 deaths in our nation in the next decade. We must do something positive to help outside of jail and prison. According to Jeni, “What is most startling is most of our children who become addicts, start using at home with drugs in their own parents’ cabinet. We must educate, we must become aware, we must save our next generation. If not the Christian Community then who? WE have pointed the finger long enough and called them ‘those people.’ Those people are our children, moms, dads, grandparents, aunts, uncles and friends. This is a problem that we cannot be ashamed of, we must fight! We have lost too many to death.” On October 18th Haven will commemorate five years with an evening of celebration. They will hear inspiring stories 032 ALT Magazine | October 2018

from our ladies who have completed the program and are living successful lives today. We will also hear from some of our men who have overcome their struggles with alcohol and addiction and are working a strong program today through Celebrate Recovery and AA. For more information contact us at jenilynn52@gmail.com or call 903-374-7059. Haven Homes P.O. Box 5345 Texarkana, TX 75505 903-277-2234

I want to be a woman who overcomes obstacles by tackling them in faith instead of tiptoeing around them in fear. Renee Swope

We have a 6-Month Lay-A-Way Program!

twitty

The Perfect Guitars For Little Hands! (903) 334-7383 108B Industrial Blvd Nash, TX 75569

NURSERY, INC.

Fall Is For Planting

The Retail Yard Is POPPING With Color! COME SEE US!

4815 W. 7th | Texarkana, TX 903-838-5591 | www.twittynursery.com

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 033

Finding JOY in the Holiday Hustle

by Michelle Horton

It doesn’t take a survey to realize that most people are stressed during the Holiday Hustle. From October through New Year’s, we desire to look forward to the feelings of happiness, joy, love, and connection with family and friends. Unfortunately, we become consumed in the extra work and it quickly robs our joy. All of a sudden, our feelings of happiness to see our family and friends quickly fades into stress and worry over our now gigantic to-do list. Pumpkin? Check. Tree? Check. Guest room clean? Check. Ordered Christmas cards? Check. The list continues on and we haven’t even thought of how early we have to get up just to turn the oven on for the turkey that will probably be dry. (It’s way too early, in case you are wondering.) Preparing the food portion of any holiday party requires so much knowledge and work; how many people are coming, how many pounds of meat do I plan per person, are there food allergies, how to serve the food, and our favorite – cleaning up afterwards. Now to us, that sounds like an immense amount of work and we haven’t even started. However, to a caterer, it’s exactly what they breathe, live and find joy in doing for others. Here are a few reasons to consider hiring a caterer to put JOY back in your holiday hustle. Keep Everyone Happy Keto, Atkins, Vegetarian, Weight Watchers, Paleo. With so many diets out there, you will run yourself ragged trying to keep everyone happy. Hiring a caterer to prepare multiple types of dishes will go a long way! A great caterer will know what options to provide for your family and friends.

034 ALT Magazine | October 2018

Feeding the Masses Cooking one selection for a large group is difficult, let alone multiple selections. Finding the kitchen space, equipment, skill and energy to cook for the masses is a challenge. It requires more energy than your normal family night meal. Imagine eliminating that from your to-do list! Creating a JOYFUL Atmosphere It’s not just the organizers of an event who benefit from hiring caterers. Great caterers and wait staff make a noticeable difference to the ambiance of the party, helping everybody to relax and enjoy the event. Caterers are trained to make sure everyone is enjoying their food and getting enough of it. You will also find time to connect and enjoy the company of your family and friends. Save Money Paying for a caterer might not sound like a way to save money at first, but there are a number of factors to consider that can make hiring a caterer a smart financial

Now Open Sunday 11-9 *WEDNESDAY WINE TASTING $15 *WEEKEND BRUNCH 11-2 SAT & SUN *SUNDAY NIGHT $25 FOR 1 BOTTLE AND 2 TAPAS decision. Buying all the food, drinks, equipment and table décor for a single event can be expensive – caterers buy these things at wholesale prices and, in many cases, are able to use them multiple times – meaning they can provide their services to you at affordable rates. A quality caterer will also know the exact amount of food and drinks needed for an event, minimizing wastage and saving you money.

212 E Broad St. Texarkana, AR 71854 (870)-773-4444

We Have The Perfect Party Room For Your Family And Friends! Both Locations:

Outside Patios TVs for all the favorite games Family Friendly

town: Down Friday Open Mic Night

Live Music on Saturday Nights

Live music. Killer eats. Cool drinks.

xarkana, Corner of 3rd and Wood

4030 Gibson Ln. Texarkana, TX 75503 (903) 280-7553

Smoke Free

Downtown Texarkana Corner of 3rd and Wood (870) 774-FEED (3333) ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 035

SETTING THE

STANDARD bench·mark /ben(t)SHmärk/ noun 1. A standard or point of reference against which things may be compared or assessed.

Fifteen years ago, Jason and Becky Williams had a vision. They knew what they wanted to do with their lives and even had a name for it. Benchmark American Brasserie was only a thought in their heads, but today, that thought has become a reality. Becky’s culinary skills, combined with Jason’s love of making craft cocktails, have made Benchmark American Brasserie the newest fine dining restaurant in the Texarkana area. While looking for a location, Jason and Becky looked all over both sides of our wonderful cities. However, it finally hit them that the perfect place was in the former “Timothy’s” restaurant site. “Our major life moments happened while Jason worked at Timothy’s, We got engaged, married, and pregnant with our first child while he worked here. I actually went into labor with Julian here,” says Becky. So the location was set. The remodel began, with help from lots of local contractors. With the help of designer Mignon Hervey, Jason created the “look” of what is now their home away from home. Their soft opening was an enormous hit, and with the help of a outstanding 036 ALT Magazine | October 2018

crew, they made it through with ease. “I can not say enough good things about our staff. They have made it so much easier to make sure our customers receive the finest service, food and drinks in the area,” Jason shares. In addition, Jason makes sure he visits each table to assure customer satisfaction. If he isn’t in the restaurant, he has someone appointed to do that. Benchmark is dedicated to making sure the customers leave happy. With dietary issues a concern for many, the restaurant offers a special menu. A vegan menu is in the works, and many dishes can be prepared for the customers based on their own health issues. All you need to do is ask. You say you need gluten free -- well, only a few of the items on the menu are NOT gluten free - so come on! Benchmark is dedicated to making sure customers leave happy. Jason's philosophy is "yes is the answer now what's the question." All items are cooked with fresh ingredients, from local vendors, if possible. Even the craft drinks are made with fresh ingredients. “Jason has some

really wonderful craft creations that are simply delicious. The shrubs that go into each drink are made daily and Jason really loves creating new things,” Becky smiles as she talks. In fact, some of those creations go on to be included in salads and dishes that Becky is working on. In addition to all of this wonderfulness, Benchmark has new dessert creations regularly. For those of you who just love having dessert, this is the place to be! From pistachio mousse, to a light course of fruit with coconut milk and toasted coconut, you will find something for your taste buds to delight! Sous Chef Ashley Weems is credited for all of these wonderful dishes, which keep everyone’s sweet tooth under control. Come out and see what’s new, delicious and different. You won’t be disappointed. The Williams have definitely set the Benchmark for fine dining. American food with a French flair - and a bar. Perfect. ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 037

LET US CATER YOUR HALLOWEEN PARTY!

Use our FREE APP!

SKIP THE WAIT.

Open 7 days a week Sun-Thurs 11am ‘til Midnight™ Fri- Sat 10:30 am ‘til Midnight™

Wings Made Fresh to Order, Never Pre-Cooked! Call the Wing Experts! Or Order On-Line at: www.wingstop.com

FRIED CORN BUFFALO RANCH FRIES LOUISIANA VOODOO FRIES

903.255.0090 | 2700 Richmond Road | Suite 14A1 903.792.WING(9464) | Corner of N. State Line and Texas Blvd

Garlic Parmesan Louisiana Rub Lemon Pepper Hickory Smoked BBQ Hawaiian Spicy Korean Q Mild Original Hot Mango Habanero Atomic Cajun Bone-In Wings, Boneless Wings & Tenders

903-838-7774 2400 Richmond Rd, Texarkana, TX 75503 Inside Central Mall through West Entry www.greatamericancookies.com

Order your cookie cake for ANY occasion today!

We have all of your favorite cookies plus many more! Stop in and check out all the holiday cookies and brownies! Chewy Pecan Supreme, Double Fudge, White Chunk Macademia, Chewy Chocolate Supreme, Sugar, Snickerdoodle, Peanut Butter Supreme, Original Chocolate Chip with M&M’s Candies, Original Chocolate Chip, Birthday Cake, Domino. 038 ALT Magazine | October 2018

BRASSERIE noun | bras·se·rie \ bras-rē An informal restaurant style originating in France including simple hearty food usually including a large selection of drinks.

Locally influenced French-American cuisine with an upscale casual atmosphere. Family friendly dining room with a separate bar serving original cocktails.

Book Your Christmas Parties Now!

Hours Tuesday - Friday 4-late | Saturday 12-late | Sunday Brunch 11-3 4115 N Kings Hwy #111 Texarkana, Texas 75503

Brought to you by Jason and Chef Becky Williams

(903) 949-6720 benchmarktxk.com ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 039

Holiday Party Checklist A Month Before: • Check local restaurants for available seating you may need. • Research companies that could cater your event. • Create your shopping list needed for decorations and supplies. • Send out your amazing invitations. Two Weeks Before: • Check your RSVPs and get a good head count. • Double check with your chosen restaurant or caterer to confirm the date. • If you are needing decorations, Start buying them now. One Week Before: • Stock up on needed drinks for your event. • Purchase any additional party supplies. • Check your guest list one more time for any changes! Two Days before: • Buy your needed groceries. • Arrange your flowers, favors, and any other centerpieces. • Start the cleaning process! One Day Before: • Set your table. • Get area prepared for your caterer and their staff. • Make anything you were wanting for appetizers. One to Two Hours Before: • Chill the beverages that you plan on serving. • Set out your serving pieces such as plates, bowls, utensils, platters, cups, etc. • Turn on your favorite holiday music. • RELAX, your party will be great!

040 ALT Magazine | October 2018

Moxibustion

Oriental Medicine: Laser

Uses Light Amplification by Stimulated Emmision of Radiation known to reduce swelling and pain

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

MicroCurrent Therapy

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

Cupping

Suction cup method used to help circulation and reduce swelling

Tui Na

Chinese style physical therapy or massage

Oriental Medicine

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

619 East 6th Street, Texarkana, AR 71854 Contact us at 870-772-8622 or www.NorthfieldClinic.net

•Personal Home •Auto •Life •Health •Commercial Property & Casualty •Commercial Group Health Benefits

Insurance

As a local Texarkana business, we are committed to our customers and our community. Our friendly staff is available at the click of a mouse or the ring of a phone, so contact us today. 5131 Summerhill Road | Texarkana, Texas | 903.831.3493 www.barryinsurance.com

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 041

On your

WAY OUT by kevin myers

“I love you from the bottom of my heart…” It had finally arrived. As I pulled the cup away from my lips I knew I had tasted the last good drop of our morning’s most treasured pleasure – coffee. Not just any coffee, but the succulent sweetness we’ve discovered called Jamaica Me Crazy. It’s a coffee blend we discovered at a local store and have highly recommended to everyone we meet! For my wife Lisa, the morning ritual is a combination of quiet reflection followed by the caffeinated fuelling for the day’s activities. Unfortunately for me, my day too often starts a bit earlier and includes a running out the door activity. Lisa’s loving help often includes a large insulated tumbler filled to the brim with this sweet goodness we call “our” coffee. I love these days of love-by-coffee as the wonder of these new insulated tumblers allows my drink to stay warm for hours. Some mornings the need for my coffee-fueling requires a later

042 ALT Magazine | October 2018

regretted guzzling, but most mornings the size of the tumbler allows for a sipping and savoring of this uniquely flavored nectar. (Yes, we are addicted.) I will sip my coffee remembering the love in which it was poured until the moment finally arrives – the yuck! Far too often, my enthusiasm for sipping Jamaica Me Crazy coffee allows me to miss the everlightening weight of the tumbler, and I drain that last drop. Well, Maxwell House may be “good to the last drop,” but Lisa’s version of Jamaica Me Crazy is not! It’s called French Press and I know as much about French Press as I know about bench press, and for those of you who know me, I need to learn about both! I like old fashioned percolators, but Lisa loves French Press. I will admit her version is much better. It is bolder, yet smoother, but the problem is that last drop. Her French Press coffee leaves too

much “yuck” at the bottom. I have ruined many a good savoring moment with that unexpected last drop taste. I am grateful to Debbie Brower and ALT Magazine for allowing me the opportunity to share some tidbits of our life with you and hopefully inspire you to see our Lord at work in and around your life, so unless I give you the impression this is a coffee review (Jamaica Me Crazy gets five stars), let me explain the mental picture I am trying to paint. For now, I’m going to title these tidbits On Your Way Out… using that phrase and sharing with you thoughts I’ve discovered as our members leave the front door of our church. Every week I try to greet as many of our church family and guests as possible at the conclusion of our services. It is common to be given a thought provoking comment as people are “on their way out”. This initial article begins with one of those comments. For years I have said, “In case I haven’t told you lately, I love you,” very often at the conclusion of teaching sessions or church services. It began many years ago after this very arrogant and people-hating person was changed by the love of our Lord, and as I began asking God to teach me to love others. The gospel message really is as simple as Love God – Love Others. One particular Sunday, I changed my normal statement by adding “I love you from the bottom of my heart.” One amazing lady, who happens to have a devilish grin, grasped my hand on her way out the door that day and said, “Why do you love me from the bottom of your heart? What’s wrong with the top?” We laughed a minute, and I told her I’d add my “whole” heart to the comment later. I didn’t give our moment of banter any more thought until the next morning as I pulled my coffee cup away from my lips. There it was, the

last good drop of our morning’s coffee. That day, I opened the tumbler lid to see the “yuck” at the bottom. Immediately, this precious woman’s words came back to me in a way I hope each of you have experienced. I call them God’s shoulder taps as He uses everyday life to remind me or teach me more of Him. God used my coffee craving and the “yuck” at the bottom of a coffee tumbler to flood my heart with the 23rd Psalm. This well-known Psalm beginning with The LORD is my shepherd, moves poetically toward its end with My cup overflows. Every single time I get to the end of my morning coffee, I would like more. Charles H. Spurgeon, in explaining the customs that informed this particular psalm, shared how a great host would see to it that a guest’s cup remained full as long as the guest was welcome to stay. When the host determined it was the right time to end the night’s gathering, a simple signal would be shared with the head servant, and the “flow” to the cup would end. Time to go home! So, what does an overflowing cup mean in this psalm? God’s desire is for you to stay! Stay in perfect fellowship with Him. Stay in His presence as your cup overflows. If you desire more of Him, His offer is to continually fill your cup. There is no need to ever get to the “yuck” when our cup continually overflows. On your way out into our community, remember God offers a never-ending, overflowing cup of His presence. Yes, this is good news! Not only for you, but also for those around you who get to experience God’s overflow from your life.

Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (From Matthew 11:28-29)

Kevin Myers is pastor at Highland Park Baptist Church in Texarkana, Texas. He and his wife, Lisa, have one daughter, Morgan. He encourages you to find God’s rest at the church of your choice and would love to welcome you if you visit Highland Park.

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 043

Numbers to Know for Breast Cancer Risk Reduction

40 years 20 pounds 2 plus 044 ALT Magazine | October 2018

The age you should start getting an annual mammogram.

The extra body mass that could bump your risk by 45%. Daily alcoholic drinks may raise your chances for developing breast cancer by 20%.

88 percent

The chance a woman with stage one will live at least 5 more years.

5 hours

The time you need to spend sweating each week to ward off breast cancer. AgingCare.com

Dr. Beth Peterson, MD Board certified General Surgeon Robotic and Breast Cancer Specialist

She is clothed in

Strength AND Dignity

Fear Future

& laughs without of the

Proverbs 31:25

Expertise in the latest Breast Cancer Surgical Techniques Oncoplastic Breast Cancer Care with a focus on Breast Conservation Surgery

Transforming Breast Cancer Treatment The Most Flexible 5-Day Breast Brachytherapy System 5002 Cowhorn Creek Rd | Texarkana, TX 75503

903.614.3007

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 045

FurCutz

Services De-Shedding Treatment Baths | Nail Trims | Shaves Teeth Cleaning Dog Microchip Available

Greg P Jones and Jennie Parker Owners

(903) 306-2003

4032 Summerhill Square . Texarkana, TX 75503

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 047

RUSTIC GLAM.

When Janet Green was asked to assist Jerry and Rona Grider with their new home, she was elated! She had already helped decorate their previous home and was thrilled they asked her again. It is always nice when custmoers return -it says something for the company you work with. As Rona calls it, the Rustic Glam look is prevalent throughout the home. Janet helped achieve this stunning look with furniture placement, window treatments, rugs, and wall placement of pictures. The look is gorgeous! Jerry and Rona love it and look forward to many years in their new home.

Janet Green Interior Design

Sweet Dreams in your new bedroom!

From bedding, to window treatments, to furniture placement, we can make your bedroom an oasis of peace and comfort! Office : 903.831.6617 | Cell : 903.826.2540 4205 Richmond Place | Texarkana, TX 75503 www.janetgreeninteriordesign.com ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 049

Cherish the moments...

debbiebrower.com / 903.278.4444 / 903.334.9605

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 051

TEXARKANA'S TOP LAWYER NOMINATIONS 2018

ADMINISTRATIVE/ REGULATORY LAW

Lisa McPherson Langdon Davis Law Firm

Darby Doan Haltom & Doan

John Mercy Mercy Carter Tidwell, LLP

Jim Haltom Haltom & Doan

BANKING & FINANCE LAW

Phillip Jordan Jordan Law Firm LLP George Matteson Law Office of George Matteson David Ruff Law Office of David Ruff

APPELLATE PRACTICE Craig Henry Law Office of Craig Henry Troy Hornsby Miller, James, Miller, & Hornsby LLC Jason Horton Jason Horton Law Office Jeffery C. Lewis Atchley, Russell, Waldrop, and Hlavinka, LLP

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS David Glass Smith Weber Law Firm Kyle Davis Langdon Davis Law Firm

Don Capshaw Capshaw Green, PLLC

Jim Haltom Haltom & Doan

Kyle Davis Langdon Davis Law Firm

Troy Hornsby Miller, James, Miller, & Hornsby LLC

Cory Floyd Norton & Wood LLP

Wes Jordan Jordan Law Firm LLP

David Ruff Law Office of David Ruff

COMMERCIAL LITIGATION

BANKRUPTCY AND CREDITOR

Darren Anderson Law Office of Darren Anderson

David James Miller, James, Miller & Hornsby, LLP

Mark Burgess Burgess Law Firm

Rodney McDaniel McDaniel Law Office

David Carter Mercy Carter Tidwell, LLP

David Ruff Law Office of David Ruff

Troy Hornsby Miller, James, Miller, & Hornsby LLC Howard Mowery Mowery Law Firm

VISIT WWW. A LT-M AG. C O M TO VOT E FO R YO U R CHOICES IN TEX ARKANAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; S TOP L AW YER O CTOBER 1-O CTOB E R 31. W I N N E R A N N O U N CED IN THE DECEMBER IS S UE OF ALT!

Nick Newton Langdon Davis Law Firm

CORPORATE LAW

CRIMINAL DEFENSE WHITE COLLAR

Jim Haltom Haltom & Doan

J. David Crisp Crisp & Freeze

Troy Hornsby Miller, James, Miller, & Hornsby LLC

Craig Henry Law Office of Craig Henry

Howard Mowery Mowery Law Firm

Jason Horton Jason Horton Law Office

Nick Newton Langdon Davis Law Firm

Joe Tyler Barrett & Tyler

CRIMINAL DEFENSE NONWHITE COLLAR

Damon Young Young Pickett Law Offices

Darren Anderson Law Office of Darren Anderson J. David Crisp Crisp & Freeze Shorty Barrett Barrett & Tyler Craig Henry Law Office of Craig Henry Jason Horton Jason Horton Law Office Joe Tyler Barrett & Tyler Damon Young Young Pickett Law Offices

DUI/DWI DEFENSE

Mark Burgess* John Mark Burgess

* Board Certified – Civil Trial Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization; Board Certified – Personal Injury Trial Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Licensed to Practice in Texas, Arkansas and oklahoma, and Federal Courts in texas and arkansas.

4201 Texas Blvd. Texarkana, Texas 75503 www.markburgesslaw.com

Darren Anderson Law Office of Darren Anderson Bruce Flint Flint & Soyars Craig Henry Law Office of Craig Henry Jacob Potter The Potter Law Firm

Ph: (903) 838-4450 Fax: (844) 270-5674 Email: mark@markburgesslaw.com

David Glass Smith Weber Law Firm Louise Tausch Atchley, Russell, Waldrop, and Hlavinka, LLP

FAMILY LAW

Bruce Condit Law Office of Bruce Condit Demaris Hart Langdon Davis Law Firm

EMPLOYMENT LAW Mark Elliott Langdon Davis Law Firm

Greg Giles Moore, Giles, & Matteson

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 053

Law is one of the world’s oldest professions, dating back to ancient Greece. The first “lawyers” were actually orators (public speakers) who become advocates for people by writing speeches for litigants and occasionally speaking in front of a jury as witnesses for them. However, it was against the law for orators to receive payment for their services and therefore law only became an actual profession when this law was abolished in Ancient Rome – around 200BC! When the law profession was legalized, the criteria to become a lawyer became more difficult than just being a good speaker. By 380BC advocates were studying law and had to be enrolled on the bar of the court, which is quite similar to how it works today. David James Miller, James, Miller & Hornsby, LLP

Paul Miller Miller, James, Miller, & Hornsby LLC

Brent Langdon Langdon Davis Law Firm

Howard Mowery Mowery Law Firm

Marshall Moore Moore, Giles, & Matteson

Marshall Wood Norton & Wood LLP

Howard Mowery Spicer Rudstrom PLLC

HEALTH CARE LAW Jennifer Doan Haltom & Doan

Bobby Howell Langdon Davis Law Firm Nikki Laing Capshaw Green, PLLC Paul Miller Miller, James, Miller, & Hornsby LLC

INSURANCE LAW Mark Burgess Mark Burgess Law Firm

LABOR LAW

Jennifer Doan Haltom & Doan John Greer Greer Miller

Paul Miller Miller, James, Miller, & Hornsby LLC

David Glass Smith Weber Law Firm Greg Giles Moore, Giles, & Matteson Lisa McPherson Langdon Davis Law Firm Marshall Wood Norton & Wood LLP

MEDIATION James Cranford Cranford Law Firm John Greer Greer Miller Demaris Hart Langdon Davis Law Firm John Mercy Mercy Carter Tidwell, LLP

054 ALT Magazine | October 2018

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE DEFENDANTS

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE PLAINTIFFS Mark Burgess Burgess Law Firm David Carter Mercy Carter Tidwell, LLP Bruce Flint Flint & Soyars Howard Mowery Spicer Rudstrom PLLC Hawley Holman Law Office of Hawley Holman Kelly Tidwell Patton, Tidwell & Culbertson LLP

PERSONAL INJURY DEFENDANTS

Jon Beck Dunn Nutter & Morgan LLP Darby Doan Haltom & Doan Brent Langdon Langdon Davis Law Firm

Paul Miller Miller, James, Miller, & Hornsby LLC John Thane Haltom & Doan

Mark Burgess Burgess Law Firm

PRODUCT LIABILITY DEFENDANTS

Bruce Flint Flint & Soyars

Darby Doan Haltom & Doan

Hawley Holman Law Office of Hawley Holman

Brent Langdon Langdon Davis Law Firm

Howard Mowery Mowery Law Firm

Marshall Wood Norton & Wood LLP

Monty G. Murry Murry Law Firm

PRODUCT LIABILITY PLAINTIFFS

Kelly Tidwell Patton, Tidwell & Culbertson LLP

PERSONAL INJURY PLAINTIFFS

David Carter Mercy Carter Tidwell, LLP Ben Franks E. Ben Franks Law Office

James Wyly Wyly Rommel, PLLC

We are honored to have our attorneys nominated as Texarkana’s Top Lawyers.

Miller, James, Miller & Hornsby, L.L.P. Attorneys at Law

Edward Miller

David L. James

Paul Miller

Nominated for

Trusts & Estates

1725 Galleria Oaks Drive Texarkana, Texas 75503

Bankruptcy & Creditor Family Law

Medical Malpractice - Defendants Personal Injury - Defendants Health Care Law Insurance Law Texarkana’s Top Lawyer

Troy Hornsby Nominated for

Appellate Practice Business Organizations Commercial Litigation Corporate Law

(903) 794-2711

Licensed to practice in Texas and Arkansas

www.miller-james.com ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 055

Hawley Holman Law Office of Hawley Holman

Wes Jordan Jordan Law Firm LLP

Lisa Shoalmire Ross & Shoalmire, LLP

Ben King Nix Patterson & Roach

Charles Morgan Dunn, Nutter, & Morgan, LLP

WORKERS COMP - CLAIMANTS

Howard Mowery Mowery Law Firm

TRUSTS & ESTATES

James Wyly Wyly Rommel, PLLC

REAL ESTATE LAW

Greg Giles Moore, Giles, & Matteson

Mike Brock J. Michael Brock, PLLC

David Glass Smith Weber Law Firm

Don Capshaw Capshaw Green, PLLC

WORKERS COMP - EMPLOYERS

Mike Brock J. Michael Brock, PLLC

Tina Green Capshaw Green, PLLC

Don Capshaw Capshaw Green, PLLC

Ed Miller Miller James Miller & Hornsby LLP

Kyle Davis Langdon Davis Law Firm

John Ross Ross & Shoalmire, LLP

Jeff Elliott Elliot Law Firm Greg Giles Moore, Giles, & Matteson

Murry Law Office Your Auto, Truck & Motorcycle Accidents Lawyer

PROTECTING

YOU

AND WHAT MATTERS MOST

Monty G. Murry MURRY LAW OFFICE 3918 Texas Blvd. | Texarkana, TX 75503 903.823.3000 | 903.823.3002 (fax) mgmurry@murrylaw.com 056 ALT Magazine | October 2018

TEXARKANA'S TOP LAWYER Danny Cook Cook Law Office PC Craig Henry Law Office of Craig Henry Jason Horton Jason Horton Law Office Brent Langdon Langdon Davis Law Firm Paul Miller Miller, James, Miller, & Hornsby LLC Howard Mowery Mowery Law Firm

Here's a list of famous people who attended law school (at least partially), but are known for something other than the law. Novelist Henry James Legendary football coach Vince Lombardi Former St. Louis Cardinals manager Tony La Russa The Doors keyboardist Ray Manzarek 26 of 44 U.S. Presidents including such notables as both Adams, Lincoln, Arthur (oh yes), FDR, and Obama Author John Grisham "Law & Order" actor and former US Senator Fred Thompson "Ozzie and Harriet Show" star Ozzie Nelson Stanley Gardner, Perry Mason’s creator, wasn’t your typical lawyer. He started on the same path, but was suspended from the Valparaiso University School of Law in Indiana after just one month of attendance due to a “distracting interest in boxing,” according to the New York Times. That led to him dropping out, moving back to California, studying for the bar on his own, and passing it in 1911. And while he enjoyed litigation and developing trial strategy, he was ultimately bored by legal practice itself. When his writing took off, he was only too happy to leave it behind.

Monty G. Murry Murry Law Firm

TEXARKANA'S TOP YOUNG LAWYER (Must be under 40 years old) John Mark Burgess Mark Burgess Law Firm Alexander Collins Ross & Shoalmire, LLP Cade Mayo J. Michael Brock, PLLC Jocob Potter The Potter Law Firm Cole Riddell Haltom & Doan ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 057

BancorpSouth- Oaklawn Branch

Digital Effects Signs & Graphics

Harman Lawn Care & Landscaping

Kelly J. Brzeski, CPA, PLLC

Texarkana Care Clinic

058 ALT Magazine | October 2018

COMMERCIAL BUILDING Located in prime location on Highway 82 in Nash Industrial Business Park. High traffic count area. Perfect for commercial or retail location. Buyer can make changes to building to fit their needs. 5,500 square feet that can be used to fit the needs of your business! Priced to sell! Currently being used as indoor gun range.

Tracy Spradlin Broker 903-748-2477

FOUND AN AWESOME DEAL ONLINE? WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LL HANDLE THE FFL TRANSFER FOR JUST $25!

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!

LEGE N D A R Y F irearms INDOOR SHOOTING RANGE

903.336.6139 PRIVATE LESSONS 101 SLATON DR., NASH, TX NASH BUSINESS PARK OFF HWY 82. LICENSE TO CARRY CLASS FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK RENTAL GUNS AVAILABLE FOR UPDATES AND SPECIALS!

OPEN TUES-SAT: 10:00-6:30, SUN: 1:00-5:30

5010 Rochelle Lane

Spectacular custom built home located in the sought-after Rolling Hills Subdivision and Pleasant Grove ISD. Roomy single story features open concept family room, dining area, and kitchen, huge walk-in pantry, laundry room, four bedrooms, three full baths, office, sunroom, studio with built-ins, which could also be 5th bedroom, playroom, media room, etc. Gorgeous custom trim throughout. Large kitchen with Cambria quartz countertops, curbless showers in two baths, soaking tub in 3rd bath. Two tankless water heaters for endless hot water! Tons of storage, layout allows for flexible use of space. In-house storm shelter and Cummins whole house automatic generator for comfort, safety, and peace of mind. Entertain on the pergola covered deck overlooking huge backyard with plenty of privacy.

The new generation of emergency care.

Dr. Kyle Groom Dr. Groom is a native of Northeast Texas. He was born in Texarkana and grew up there and in DeKalb. He is a graduate of DeKalb High School. Later, he attended Texarkana College and Wadley Regional Medical Center School of Radiologic Technology. He received his BS from ETSU-Commerce. He went to medical school at the University of North TexasTexas College of Osteopathic Medicine in Fort Worth and attended an emergency medicine residency at Oklahoma State University-Tulsa Regional Medical Center. He is a board certified emergency physician with the American Osteopathic Board of Emergency Physicians. In 2004, he returned home to work as an emergency physician. He has served many roles since then including: working as the director/owner of a rural clinic, a high school team physician, part owner/supervising physician of a medical spa, Stroke Director, EMS Director, Assistant Director and Director of local emergency departments. On a personal note, he enjoys spending time with his wonderful wife Leann and three sons Tyler, Kaden, and Hunter. His interests include hunting, fishing, and ranching.

YO U R

H O M E TO W N D O C TO R !

REALER WITHOUT THE WAIT Centrally located East of Central Mall

4646 Cowhorn Creek Texarkana, TX 75503 | 903.838.8000 FIND

TexarkanaEmergencyCenter.com US ON

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 061

SCENE IN ALT PUTT FOR A PURPOSE 9.8.2018

Angel Fund Volunteers Red Shirt Ladies

Richard & Tracie Cooper

Ida Glover, Cansandra Griffin

Ruth Voss, Chuck Morgan, Jo & Jim Blackburn

Jason & Meredith Gross, Erin Davis

David & Kathy Lamon

Greg & Holllie Lessard

Heather Roberts, Melisa Plunk, Jenni Hedrick, Brandy Mashburn, Michaelyn Marracino, Emilee Kitchens, Christy Duke

Meredith Gross, Erin Davis, Natalie Reeves, Morgan Jerry

Dr. Fortenberry with PAM Specialty Hospital of Texarkana employees

Mark & Kayla McCarley, Heather & Richard Roberts

Blake Rich, Kelsey Patterson, Tommy Dixon

Sandra Holmes, Alice Coleman, Linda & Lonnie Hughes

Dr. Mark & Mrs. Brandy Mashburn

Lindsey & Wyatt Bruce 062 ALT Magazine | October 2018

SCENE IN ALT 100TH ANNIVERSARY COURT MARIE #344 7.28.2018

Catholic Daughter's of Americas

100th Anniversary Cake

Most Reverend Bishop Joseph E. Strickland with senior member Joyce Schiessl

CDA Members Robyn Hilborn, Laurie Perticone

David Blanton, Dcn. Lashford, Bishop Strickland, Fr. Adams, Dcn. LaFor, Dcn. Benzmiller, Vincent Meisner with Knight of Columbus Honor Guard

Texas St. Regent Rosie Stockwell Court Marie Regent Phyllis Jendrow

Banner Bearers Sophie Richardson, Gloria Benzsmiller, Robyn Hilborn

Court and State Officers

Shannon Bustamante, Katherine Stoeckl

Melodie Brunt, Bishop Joseph E. Strickland, Pat Smith, Collins

Want your event in the magazine or in the calendar section?

Gloria Benzmiller, Patty LaFor

Melodie Brunt, Grace Horn, Helene Shepard, Nancy Stropeni, Pat Smith, Beverly Adams, Barbara Stoeckl, P.J. Jendro

send information to info@alt-mag.com ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 063

Fish Tales with Mike Brower Hoppers and Droppers Around the end of August, Debbie and I went to Montana and Yellowstone National Park. Of course, there was fishing involved, and I did partake in the time honored, Walden Pond, gentleman’s art of fly fishing while we were there. We stayed outside the park at The Sage Lodge, a new resort in Pray, Montana. The lodge was set up around a pond with some really, friendly Brook and Rainbow Trout. We had only been there an hour and I’m rigged and out the back door of our room and at the pond, trying to catch the picky trout in a 1 ½ acre pond that you can see 4 feet down in. Before we got to the lodge, we stopped in Pray at Anglers West Outfitters (really nice guys) and they mentioned that I should fish ‘hoppers” and “hopper droppers” on the pond at the lodge. Since I’m a moron who only remembers dry and wet flies from my ill spent youth, I had to ask the question, “What are you talking about?” Well, it seems much like bass fishing. The gentleman’s art has evolved somewhat and a “hopper” is a grasshopper imitation and a “dropper” is a nymph suspended off the hopper about a foot or so. Well, the combo didn’t do so good, but the hopper alone went on to make me feel like Curt Gowdy. I fished every morning before breakfast and afternoon before dinner, catching some nice fish and having a blast. (I love friendly fish). One of our days there I had a guided trip set up by Anglers West with Max Yzaguirre (can’t pronounce that either and I heard it spoken) and had a great time on the Yellowstone River presenting (chunking) hoppers on the current edges. (It was the only day of cold and rain we had.) For a power fisherman, “presenting” is just not quite right. Debbie and I did venture down to Yellowstone Park 3 days, blah blah blah, but back to fishing. Max was great, he helped me catch Cutbows and Cutthroats all day. I can’t tell you here how much fun we had! Debbie had her fun in the park with me driving and I had mine fishing. We both enjoyed our stay at Sage Lodge and will be going back. If you get up that way, be sure to check out Sage Lodge and Anglers West Outfitters. I can tell you it will be worth your while and just to be clear, I got nothing for mentioning them here. I just think you should know about a good thing.

LEGE N D A R Y F irearms INDOOR SHOOTING RANGE - CLASS 3 DEALER

903.336.6139

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

OPEN TUES-SAT: 10:00-6:30, SUN: 1:00-5:30

064 ALT Magazine | October 2018

What's on the AGENDA?

OCTOBER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Saturday, October 6th

Texarkana's 4th Annual Dine on the Line. The first Dine on the Line Octoberfest will have a hospitability tent and opens at 4:00. The main event is from 6-9 where prior reservations must be made to enjoy dinner and music through the decades. A fashion show with models showcasing our local boutiques fall fashions will also take place during this time. Raffle items and other special awards and presentations will be given throughout the event as well. Please email Stacy Mayo, Event Coordinator at SJames2879@aol.com for further information.

Saturday, October 13th

Rally in the Ally 9:30 am - 11:30 am Holiday Entertainment Center Benefiting THE CALL in Miller County. Teams of four, $20 entry free per person, entry includes 2 games and shoe rental.

Saturday, October 13th

Hospice of Texarkana's 9th Annual "Jeans & Bling" 7:00 pm The 9th annual features... Event tickets are on sale for $60 at Hospiceoftexarkana.org or at 2407 Galleria Oaks Dr. Texarkana. For info, call 903-7944263. Texarkana Convention Center

Wednesday, October 17th

26th annual Taste of Texarkana. 5 – 8 pm at the Four States Fairgrounds In collaboration with the Harvest Regional Food Bank the city of Texarkana will bring together all the top local restaurants and vendors for a little taste of what Texarkana has to offer. General Admission is $20, kids 12 and under are $10, and VIP Admission is $50. This event will be located at 3700 East 50th St. Texarkana, Arkansas.

Wednesday, October 17th

The University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service will conduct its Miller County Master Gardener Training Program. The classes will be held in Texarkana, Arkansas, October 17, 24, 31, & November 7, 14. A completed application is required and may be obtained by calling 870-779-3609. Deadline for applying is October 1.

Sunday, October 28th

Texarkana Fall Paw Fest 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm the Animal Care and Adoption Center. The event is open to families and their fur babies and will feature $10 microchipping, a costume contest, bounce house for children, treats, games and prizes.

Wednesday, October 31th

Saturday, October 20th

2nd Texarkana Fall Festival will be hosted in downtown Texarkana. The fall festival will include bounce house, art and crafts, a costume contest, and a thriller flash mob performance. Admission is free and the event will start at 11 a.m. and last until 8 p.m. that night. There will also be trunk or treating from 4 p.m. until close and a live band.

Friday's in October

“Moonlight and Movies” Ace of Clubs house downtown 420 Pine St. in Texarkana, Texas. “Dr.Strangelove” October 13 “The Wizard of Oz” October 20 “The Wiz” October 27. On Tuesday October 31, they will have 2 showings of “The Rocky Horror Picture show”. ickets are free for members of the Texarkana Museum System and $3 for nonmembers.

ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 065

FINANCIAL FOCUS

W/DUSTIN STRINGER

STRINGER WEALTH MANAGEMENT LPL FINANCIAL StringerWealthManagement.net

THE FED’S ATTEMPT AT A SOFT LANDING by Scott J. Brown, Ph.D. Chief Economist, Raymond James Financial

he current U.S. economic expansion, the second longest on record, is now entering its 10th year. While some investors may fear that we are “due” for a recession, the likelihood of an economic contraction does not depend on the length of the expansion. Recessions are typically caused by Federal Reserve interest rate increases and are often associated with higher gasoline prices – both of which bear watching closely in the months ahead. The concept of potential gross domestic product (GDP) is central to the Fed’s thinking. The growth rate of the economy may exceed its potential as slack is taken up, but eventually constraints in resource markets (e.g., capital, labor, raw materials) will lead to higher inflation. Following exceptionally accommodative monetary policy in the economic recovery, the central bank’s rate increases of the last couple of years have been about getting policy closer to neutral. Now the focus is on achieving a “soft landing,” where growth slows to a sustainable pace. That isn’t easy, and the risks of a policy error are expected to increase. Belaboring labor The labor market is the Fed’s key concern. It’s good that more people are working, but you can’t count on an ever-declining unemployment rate or you’ll run out of people. Tight 066 ALT Magazine | October 2018

labor markets should boost wage growth, which is likely to be passed along to consumers through higher prices. However, we’ve seen only moderate wage pressures to date. There’s been a shift in bargaining power away from workers and toward employers in recent decades. Union membership has fallen, and there is a greater con- centration of large firms. Productivity growth has been lackluster, which limits the ability of firms to raise wages. Baby boomers are exiting the labor force, replaced by younger, lower-paid new workers. Employers are using more creative means to attract and retain employees, such as offering more perks. Some industries are accelerating the use of automation. Wage pressures are more notable for high-skilled positions in a variety of industries, including engineering, information technology, healthcare, construction and transportation. With wage pressures remaining moderate, the Fed can be gradual in raising short-term interest rates, but there are some arguments for letting the expansion run a bit stronger, including the possibility that there may be more labor market slack than we believe. Unless offset by faster productivity growth, higher wage growth will eat into profit margins. However, higher wage growth ought to lead to a more efficient allocation of labor over time – yet, many firms and industries may not be able to adjust.

••• For the Fed, it will be difficult to get monetary policy just right. Corporate tax cuts and deregulation should add to economic growth in the near term, but it’s unclear by how much – and the Fed will want to lean partly against that. Recent job growth has been roughly twice the pace needed to absorb new entrants into the labor force. Labor market conditions are reported to be tight around the country, restraining growth in some regions.

Recessions are typically caused by Federal Reserve interest rate increases There is no assurance any of the trends mentioned above will continue in the future. Raymond James Chief Economist Scott J. Brown, Ph.D., serves on the economic advisory committees of the American Bankers Association and the Bond Market Association. // In addition to providing insight to Raymond James advisors and their clients, he is a frequent commentator on CNBC and other media outlets. As featured inWORTHWHILE, a quarterly periodical dedicated to serving the clients of Raymond James advisors and affiliated advisory firms. © 2018 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC © 2018 Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC Investment products are: not deposits, not FDIC/ NCUA insured, not insured by any government agency, not bank guaranteed, subject to risk and may lose value. 17-WorthWhile-0022 BS 8/18

y a d i l Ho Cleaners

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

FALL IS COMING... Make the transition easier this year.

NOW OPEN IN TWO LOCATIONS!! 1443 N. Kings Hwy. 903. 838. 0422

870.773.4072

K-Mart Shopping Center 903. 223. 0149

Donuts are ALWAYS the Answer!

The

pain you

feel Today, will be The

STRenGTh you feel TomoRRow!

Texarkana, Atlanta, & Surrounding Areas Birthdays Graduation New Baby Thank You

School Event Sports Party Sports Events Open House

Marketing Anniversary Back to School

Holidays Wedding Shower Welcome

Home Get Well Homecoming Prom Engagement Congrats Good Luck

reason to ... a s y a w l a ’s There you say it p l e h n a c e celebrate! w

BIG!

(903) 832-5438 600 North Kings Hwy Wake Village, TX 75501

Like us on Facebook @signgypsiesarklatex 903-392-9935 | Clyde and Beckie Lewis ALT-Mag.com | October 2018 067

Local Rescues

Adopt, Don’t Shop! ARKLATEX COCKER SPANIEL RESCUE Facebook.com/ ArklatexCockerSpanielRescue ARTEX ANIMAL WELFARE, INC. (mostly horses) 903.824.1990 ATLANTA ANIMAL LEAGUE Facebook.com/ AtlantaAnimalLeague

TYRION

Boxer Rescue of Texarkana

CASSIE

Texarkana Animal League

BOXER RESCUE OF TEXARKANA Facebook.com/ BoxerRescueOfTexarkana

MAX

Passion For Pooches

KITTIES PAD RESCUE Facebook.com/TheKittiesPad MUTTLEY CREW GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUE Facebook.com/ MuttleyCrewRescue POODLE PATCH RESCUE INC PoodlePatchRescue.com PASSION FOR POOCHES (mostly small dogs) Facebook.com/passionforpooches

LOBO

Texarkana Humane Society

BOB

Arklatex Cocker Spaniel Rescue

WINSTON Muttley Crew

MARCY & MURPHY Poodle Patch Rescue Inc.

TEXARKANA ANIMAL LEAGUE Facebook.com/ TexarkanaAnimalLeague TEXARKANA HUMANE SOCIETY TexarkanaHumaneSociety.org Facebook.com/ TexarkanaHumaneSocietyInc TEXARKANA REPTILE & AMPHIBIAN RESCUE Facebook.com/TkReptileRescue

ANIMAL CARE & ADOPTION CENTER

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

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. animalcareadoptioncenter.org or www.facebook.com/AnimalCare AdoptionTXK.

ANDREW

COPPER

DELLA

DIXIE

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

LADY

068 ALT Magazine | October 2018

MOLLY

MOSES

MUDDY

WE’RE OPEN! M-F 11A-5P & SAT 11A-2P

We wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t TRICK you... ...But it would be a TREAT to go home with you!

SPAY

NEUTER

ADOPT

5820 Richmond Rd. | Texarkana, TX 75503 | (877) 525-4825 | Fax:(903) 949-6589 info@texarkanaanimalleague.org | TexarkanaAnimalLeague.org

2311 S. Stateline 4000 sf with 3 retail areas 20 parking spaces $224,900 MLS#101503

2693 Fm 559 Gorgeous 12.39 acres 2/1 French County Charmer Unrestricted - out of city limits MLS#101505

Maud - 10 Acres | Unrestricted Fenced Site has utilities $59,900 MLS#100997

Connie Ruff Walker Realtor TX & AR since 1982 Multi Million Dollar Producer

Service Excellence Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s No Place Like Home!

Barkman Creek Trce 7.5 acres $49,900 MLS#99868 070 ALT Magazine | October 2018

9723 Fm 1398 2 bed and 2 bath / Remolded Exclusive / Appt. Realtor Owned

Service Excellence for over thirty-five years. Specializing in residential property, first time home buyers, land development, new home and farm-ranch property. Whether helping you sell a home or buy the one of your dreams, I can make the process understandable, simple and fast.

1831 N King Hwy Commerical Zoned / High Traffic House & Frontage Income $550/mo $149, 900 MLS#101504

Gorgeous, country home! 9.30 Acres 4 bed, 3 bath, 2 kitchen 3150 heated sq. ft. Lake, Cookshack and 3 Stall Barn $374,900 - MLS#100982

200 Roosevelt 2 bed and 1 bath / Remolded Exclusive / Appt. Realtor Owned $38,900

Rose of Sharon 1/2 Acre - $15,500 1.5 Acre - $24,000 MLS#100801

M:(903) 277-0100 O:(903) 832-2486 connie.walker@coldwelltexarkana.com www.connie.coldwelltexarkana.com 4321 Mcknight Rd | Texarkana, Texas 75503

3708 Holloway Total HGTV makeover inside 3 bed, 3 bath, 2 living & Office $169,900

Commercial Building & Loading Dock Offices & Ample Parking $99,000 | MAKE AN OFFER MLS# 98270

BRAND NEW! 16 Rose of Sharon LOADED! 4 bed & 3 bath acre wooded lot $279, 900 MUST SEE! MLS# 101332

Beaver Creek Lake Lots over 3 acres $60,000 MLS#93100

Featured Listing

6527 Lakeview

Welcome to this Mediterranean inspired home which boasts 2650 sq ft on 1.10 Acres overlooking lake, with lake frontage. Master suite features fireplace with remote control in master bedroom adjoined by a morning kitchen leading into his and her master baths with jetted tub, tile shower, separate walk-in closets and three sets of French doors leading onto a wisteria covered deck area that runs across the back of home. This home has many unique features such as French doors leading into the master bedroom from the original owners childhood home with original glass knobs & skeleton key. The hall bathroom is accented with a 1922 claw foot tub perfect for soaking. Double sided gas log fireplace separating family room. Dream kitchen with lots of cabinet space. Schedule your showing today!

Bill Spradlin Realtor 903-748-3186

Tracy Spradlin Broker 903-748-2477

Jan Williams Realtor 903-277-5771

Stephanie Maddox Realtor 903-701-1341

Jessica Johnson Realtor 512-584-0913

1356 N. Kings Hwy. | Nash, TX 75569 | 903.223.0710 www.ImpactRealtyOnline.com | billsprad@aol.com | spradlintd@aol.com