June 2019 ALT Magazine

ALT

A Father's Love

magazine

covering the ark-la-tex

June 2019 | Volume 13 | Issue 6

W W W . A L T - M A G . C O M

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J u n e 2 0 1 9 / Vo l u m e 1 3 / I s s u e 6

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covering the ark-la-tex

10

A Father's Love

50

Scene In ALT

18

Little Miracle: A Story of Love and Healing

56

Financial Focus

26

Student Athletes

58

Fish Tales

59

Ribbon Cuttings

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Calendar of Events

62

Local Rescues

Inside This Month... Local High School Athletes Fo r a d ver t i s i n g info r m atio n, c all 903. 334. 9605 COO / PUBLISHER / EDITOR Debbie Brower ASSOCIATE EDITOR Alyssa Bertrand SALES & MARKETING Debbie Brower 903.334.9605 GRAPHIC DESIGN/SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Michelle Horton PHOTOGRAPHY Alyssa Bertrand, Debbie Brower, Karen Lansdell

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06 ALT Magazine | June 2019

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He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17:20 Blended families are not new to me. I have one of those myself although I didn’t grow up in one. My parents were married their entire lives – from their early twenties until my dad died in his mid-60’s. My mom never even looked at another man after my dad died – she always said she put up with him that long and she didn’t want to have to put up with training another one! LOL When Mike and I married, he knew I had two children. Michael was 12, and already into the teenager ways, and Jaclyn was only three. I had worked for attorneys who did a lot of divorces and was determined my children would not be used as pawns. When they wanted to go see their father, they would call and ask him if they could. If their father picked them up and brought them home, they went. We always worked out how we would share holidays, even if it wasn’t exactly what the courts told us to do. It worked for us and my kids 08 ALT Magazine | June 2019

grew up knowing they were loved. Mike fit right in, never trying to replace their father but being there for them if there was ever a need. In fact, with Jaclyn being so small, she doesn’t remember there being any other way in her life. Mike was just a part of it – a big part. Reading the story of Kevin and Michelle Horton brought back so many memories. Watching this family interact is truly a joy! Over the past two years, I have watched the kids grow into wonderful young adults, and I have watched Michelle be the amazing parent she never thought she would be. God truly does work in mysterious ways and He has blessed them so much! He has also blessed me with their friendship. Blessings come in many different forms and the Deirkson Hospice official therapy mini-pony is one such joyful blessing. Little Man is definitely a surprise to many, but the delight that is shown on the faces of those enjoying his company brings a smile to all who are present. You may have heard about therapy dogs, however, where else, but in Northeast Texas, would you hear about a therapy pony? Well, that is just what we have and I think it is a wonderful thing! Hope you enjoy reading this month’s articles and know how much joy is in the lives of all who are involved. May God bless you as well…

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Horton Family 010 ALT Magazine | June 2019

O give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good: for His mercy endureth forever. -Psalm 107:1

A Father's Love by: Anne Granado

It is truly amazing when we can look back on past hurts and trials and see God’s hand through the process. This is definitely the case in the unconventional love story of Kevin and Michelle Horton. Though the couple met in second grade, and again in seventh grade, Kevin swore he would one day marry Michelle. However, the two did not reconnect until years later when a chance meeting turned into love, engagement and marriage. Kevin had two children from a previous marriage, Summer and CJ, who also welcomed Michelle into their hearts and lives, and Michelle ended up adopting them on November 29, 2017. Now, when the family looks back on their story, they see how God’s love moved and worked in their lives to bring them together when they needed each other. “None of this would have worked out without God and His timing in our lives,” Michelle says. “Our story has so many ‘wow’ moments in it, but they all come from God’s love, grace and blessings.” Michelle was told in her mid-20s that she would not be able to have children of her own. As disheartening as this news was, she knew God had a bigger plan for her life. Michelle was raised by her father and her stepmother, so being open to the idea of adoption or stepparenting was always an easy and welcoming idea. She felt that was God’s plan for her life even though she was

not married and definitely had not dated Kevin. When Kevin’s marriage ended in 2006, he raised CJ and Summer on his own. He bought clothes, helped with homework, cooked dinner, cleaned the house, and when he was really stumped, he just prayed to God for help. “For me, raising the kids was just natural. I knew that I was there to support, raise and protect my family. Not having a woman figure in the house was hard on me and the kids at times, especially when it came time to fix my daughter’s hair,” Kevin says. “Summer’s first day of first grade, she just HAD to have a french braid. I stayed up all night on YouTube trying to learn how to braid, and I was pretty proud of how it turned out. When she got home from school that day, the braid was gone. She said that she had gotten too hot and had to let it down!” Kevin and Michelle had met and parted ways twice before their fateful meeting in a local store. They originally met when they were in second grade at Nash Elementary School in Nash, Texas. After a few years had passed, Kevin transferred to another school, and the two met again at Wake Village Baptist Church in Wake Village, Texas, when they were both in the youth group. Then, on January 1, 2010, at a local store in Texarkana, Texas, Kevin recognized Michelle immediately, but she took a bit longer to recognize him. After a few minutes of chatting, they exchanged Yahoo Instant Messenger handles and talked that evening. When Kevin shared the news with CJ and Summer about meeting Michelle, they were shocked, not because they didn’t want their dad to date, but because they thought he had “given up” on finding love again. Things moved quickly after their reunion. Their first date was the following Sunday, January 3rd. This was the first time for Michelle to meet Kevin’s children too, so it was a big day. Kevin wanted the kids to go on the date with them because he wanted CJ and Summer to be a part of the process. “I just didn’t want to waste time if it wasn’t going to be a good fit for the whole family; my kids are a part of me,” Kevin says. The four of them went to church together, had dinner at Applebee’s and watched the Dallas Cowboys game afterwards. The kids loved Michelle. “When we came back home, they couldn’t stop talking about how awesome and friendly and nice she was,” Kevin says. “It wasn’t like we met someone for the first time, it was like, ‘She’s finally here.’” For Michelle, the date solidified what she thought about Kevin. She knew that he was kind and giving and handsome, but his love for his kids showed her his heart, and she knew that he was a good man. “I was immediately attracted to Kevin because of his love for his children, and the way they loved and respected him. During that date, all I could think is how special the relationship was ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 011

between his children and him,” Michelle says. Since Kevin had “let her get away” twice before, he was not going to make the same mistake again. The kids were in agreement as well: Michelle was a natural part of the family. Because of Kevin’s past, honesty was high on his list of priorities, and Michelle was honest, open, and caring from the beginning. “Michelle’s sweetness made me fall in love with her. I wasn’t looking to get married; I had told myself a long time ago that I wouldn’t get married again,” Kevin says. “But when we started talking, I knew I wouldn’t have a happy life without her.” Kevin, Summer and CJ all knew that he was going to “pop the question” a few days before he did. They visited the store together to pick out the engagement ring. Kevin whisked Michelle away to Broken Bow, Oklahoma, and popped the question in a romantic setting on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2010. Her first reaction was not an immediate “yes” but an excited and nervous, “Are the kids ok with it?” After he told her they were and that they were a part of the plan, she finally said “Yes!” Though the engagement was quick, Michelle felt very confident in both Kevin and God’s plan in bringing them together. “Kevin is honest, giving, and shows genuine love. Kevin loves his family, his children, and his wife, deeply and without reservation. He does not hold grudges or bring up past mistakes, he simply loves through everything,” Michelle says. “He is extremely honest, and always keeps his word, whether to me or to his customers at his business. He gives and gives to his children, his wife, his family, and his church family. No matter what crazy idea I come up with, he is right there, supporting me and cheering me on. From homeschool group dances to starting a photography business, he is the biggest cheerleader!” The two were married the following year, January 4, 2011, at Sandals Montego Bay in Jamaica and had a reception at the J.K. Wadley House in Texarkana, Texas. However, this story is more than just a love story between a man and a woman; this story is about the love of a family. In the years that followed, the family developed traditions and inside jokes, routines and respect. The whole family loves to play volleyball in the backyard, especially because the kids played on a volleyball team in their homeschool co-op. They go on weekend trips, and they claim to have seen “every cavern in the four states.” The family’s favorite destination is Mountain Harbor in Hot Springs, Arkansas. They hike trails, swim, and fish off the dock. The family also enjoys trips to Six Flags and Hurricane Harbor. As the family built memories, the bond between them grew, and Michelle continued to love and support the kids through some trying times. Kevin and Michelle had to navigate the difficulties of co-parenting with the children’s biological mom. The children would visit their biological mom’s house where 012 ALT Magazine | June 2019

rules were not as strict, and when they came back, it would take them time to adjust. However, after even just a short time together, Michelle saw that that the kids accepted her. One day, they were all outside playing basketball, and Michelle made a basket. CJ shouted, “Good shot, Mom!” Stunned, Michelle froze in place, and the game stopped so that Kevin and Michelle could have an honest talk with the kids. The couple explained that the kids were not obligated to call her ‘Mom.’ Michelle knew from her own experiences that she wasn’t there to replace their mom; she was just a bonus adult who loved them and wanted to help guide them. “But, CJ said, ‘I want to call you Mom,’” Michelle says. “He told me he loved me, and this was after only a few months of being in their lives. I cried happy tears the rest of that basketball game!" Through every trial and celebration, CJ and Summer’s sibling relationship did not waiver. The two needed each other through all the changes. “Summer had stepped into a ‘mom’ role after the divorce, and it was hard to let go of parenting her younger brother; she was there before Michelle and I got married,” Kevin says. “And CJ is the protector. He is always aware of where his sister is and making sure she is safe. They may bicker and fight sometimes, but they really love each other and have a great brother and sister relationship.” After some heart-breaking situations with their biological mother, CJ and Summer came to Kevin and asked him to start the process for Michelle to adopt them and become their legal mother. “Michelle showed such willingness to love and willingness to join our family. She didn’t come in expecting to be the mom. She came in knowing that I had kids, and that we were asking her to be a part of our family,” Kevin says. “We’ve always felt that

love from her side of the family too. The kids were never step-kids; they were always part of the family.” These times were not always easy. Michelle loves to share her testimony with other parents and children of blended families because she knows how difficult it can be. Not only did she learn from the process in her own childhood, but she applied that wisdom as she became a mom to CJ and Summer. She understood what it was like to be a child of a split family, and knew how to communicate with Summer and CJ, without overstepping her boundaries. “God prepared me for being Summer and

CJ’s mom by being a step-child myself; my step-mother and her family took me in when I was three. I grew up without knowing the difference between a step-child and a biological child,” Michelle says. “My family did not treat my younger brother different than me. In fact, they

showed me that there was plenty of love to go around. I grew to hate the word ‘step-child’ because there was no difference in our family.” Though Michelle and Kevin would be great candidates for starting a ministry with blended families, they have yet to do anything formal. However, they do not shy away from encouraging other parents and children, and for Michelle, the key is grace. “I think the key is to give grace and not try to act like a replacement for the mother or father figure they had,” Michelle says. “The kids were young when Kevin and I got married. Summer was nine and CJ was six. Adjusting was not always easy, but I just had to remember to be gentle and gracious. I was not there to replace their mom. I was just an additional person to love them and guide them along in life. Often, I would have to refer back to the love we are shown by God; we are given numerous chances in life. I believe we have to give our children chances through the growing pains, just like God shows us grace and mercy every day.” As the family prepared for the demands of the adoption process, the first thing they needed to secure was a lawyer. However, God had already provided one for them. Kevin and Michelle had already met the lawyer that helped them become a family. About three years earlier, when they were attending Bible College at their home church, Northern Hills Baptist Church, Michelle noticed that Amy Freedman, a fellow student, had to miss class a few times. In good fun, she joked with her about her truancy, and Amy explained that she was a lawyer and often had to travel for court. “I laughed and said, ‘Well, I imagine I will never need your services.’ Little did I know!” Michelle says. “I jokingly threw her card to the side, but while we were attending class, I got to know her and her mother, Barbara Garrett, and they became very familiar with our family and our story. Six months after we graduated Bible College, the kids came to us about adoption, and I had to dig Amy’s card back out.” Michelle, a graphic designer for ALT Magazine, and Kevin, owner of Small Engine Specialist of Texarkana, were worried about the costs of hiring a lawyer. They saved every possible penny, but they were still frightened

ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 013

about the required fees when they sat down with Amy about their case. “We had saved every little penny that we had. When Amy met with us to tell us about costs, I was praying that we would have enough money,” Michelle says. “I kid you not. The amount she said was the exact amount, to the penny, that we had saved. We saw God’s hand in the fact that He would provide the exact amount we needed to move forward.” It took two, long years to get to court to formally adopt the children, and the couple says they would not have made it without the support of their family and members of their church. “God showed us His love by giving us a praying and very supportive church family at Northern Hills Baptist Church,” Michelle says. “They rallied around us week after week for two years and constantly offered an encouraging word or prayer.” In this time, the kids had to see a counselor, and again, Michelle and Kevin were witness to God’s work in their lives and in their desire to become a family. The counselor was Marian Green out of Magnolia, Arkansas. “She was a gift from God,” Michelle says, “and she was a huge part of our case. She gave a two-hour, very compelling testimony of the kid’s living condition and emotional state. She was the first and last person our lawyer put on the stand, and she was a great person for the case. She also gave the kids tips to deal with pressure and stress that were very helpful. In fact, because of her, Summer is attending college now to obtain her degree in psychology, and she wishes to counsel adolescents.” Right before their court date, Michelle and the entire family felt extreme stress. Their date had been moved several times. When she felt at her absolute lowest, Michelle started to question God’s plan for their family. She contacted a friend and role-model from church, Mrs. Marian Lloyd, and told her that she felt like there was no hope in sight. Marian told her to come right over and that she would start a pot of coffee. “I went to her living room, and I bawled my eyes out. I told her that I was stressed out, and the kids were stressed out and that I wanted the adoption to be completed. She reassured me and then urged me to get down on my knees and talk to God right then and there. She said that she was going to stand in the room and pray over me and wasn’t going 014 ALT Magazine | June 2019

to stop praying until I was done, whether that was in five minutes or five hours.” Feeling a little awkward but desperate for relief, Michelle knelt on the floor and began to tell God how she felt. As she was praying, she felt a peace come over her. “God was still there. He had not forsaken us, but this had to be HIS timing because if it wasn’t, then it wasn’t HIS plan,” Michelle says. “I was trying to do everything on my time, but I needed to stop interrupting God’s plan and let God do it. I prayed and cried until I had no tears left. When I got up off the floor, Marian hugged me and said, ‘Be ready for a miracle.’” On Michelle’s way out of the door, Marian open Michelle’s hand, placed a tiny mustard seed in her palm, and closed her hand. She reminded Michelle that it only takes a little faith. Surprised by just how small the mustard seed was, Michelle left feeling emotionally spent but hopeful. Two hours later, their lawyer called with a court date just a few weeks away. “I looked to heaven and said, ‘I see you, God,” Michelle says. “I see where you are going with this.” On the day that the family would appear before Judge Haltom, the kids were very nervous about how the court appearance would go. For legal reasons, Michelle was not allowed to talk to the kids that day. Kevin was also separated from the kids so that they could give a clear and uncoerced account. Michelle worried about the kids, but their lawyer’s mom, Barbara, volunteered to come sit with the kids. “I knew that God had sent a comforter to ease my mind and that everything would be ok with Mrs. Barbara there,” Michelle says. “In fact, we found out that Summer was next to testify, and she was extremely upset about it. Barbara prayed with our entire family, especially for what Summer was about to face, and by the time she finished, there was a knock on the door.” The other lawyer was standing in the hallway and explained that Summer and CJ’s biological mother wanted to sign away her parental rights. Summer didn’t have to testify and neither did CJ! “Judge Haltom was so kind to the kids. He joked with them and made them feel comfortable, and at the end, he took a picture with our family,” Michelle says. “He even ordered a new birth

certificate to put my name down as their mother; it was a very cool surprise.” Kevin says that every event from the day he saw Michelle to the wedding to the formal adoption felt natural and part of the plan all along. “Our blending has always felt simple, easy, and like we were meant to be a family,” Kevin says. Now, the couple is enjoying, yes enjoying, raising their two teenagers. Summer has just completed her first year at Texarkana College. She works at several summer church camps and has a heart for young girls going through a tough time. “Summer has such a caring spirit; she pays attention to your emotions. She can walk into a room and know if you are upset or if something is bothering you,” Michelle says. “And she can also be so fun. We love to jump in the car, roll the windows down and crank the music up.” CJ has just finished his tenth-grade year and also counsels at church camps. Michelle says that he can make anyone laugh for hours, and Kevin says that CJ has awesome dance moves that look like magic tricks. “He also knows the Bible backwards and forwards,” Michelle says. Kevin recalls multiple times CJ will start deep, thoughtprovoking discussions about the Bible, life, people and history. Summer and CJ also both play in the IMPACT Teen Worship band at church. He plays drums and bass guitar, and she plays acoustic guitar and sings. Both kids show a heart for God, something that Kevin says is rare for this day and age. “We are having an awesome time raising our teenagers,” Michelle says. “People always complain and warn you about this stage, but I think it’s the best, most fun, most exhilarating age to raise. They are figuring out life, learning to drive, and trying to figure out careers and their place in this world. My daughter has transitioned to college, and we’ve become best friends. My son is the comic relief of the family. If he doesn’t make you laugh, you need to go get your head examined. He brings so much joy to our family.” Looking back on the trials

and broken road that brought them together, Kevin and Michelle see how God worked to provide the right people at the right time for their journey. They see how His love and mercy helped them build their family. “This whole thing has just been a way for us to share our testimony of God’s love,” Michelle says. “We can bear witness and say, ‘This is what He has done for us.’”

ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 015

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He causes quite a stir when he walks in the room, dressed in his finest outfit for the occasion. He causes the onlookers to laugh when he steps on the elevator, just as easily as if he were human. Little Man causes the patients to cry when he calmly walks up to their beds and rests his head in their laps, hoping for a pet behind his ears. Little Man, the mini pony, brings joy to everyone who sees him. His mission in life as the official therapy pony of Dierksen Hospice, is to interact with hospice and senior residents, and anyone else who needs him, and make them smile again, a feat he accomplishes every day. However, Little Man did not grow up knowing he would bring such joy to others. His journey to his purpose took a few twists and turns along the way. Annette Mugno, administrator at Dierksen Memorial Hospice, found Little Man on a kill shelter Facebook site. She was searching for a smaller horse for her father. In July of 2014, Annette’s father, Johnnie Nettles, had a horrific accident that required repeated surgeries, and ultimately in 2016, he was told he could no longer ride horses. “For a man who had built a life around this obsession, it was a devastating blow,” Annette says. “Watching someone who had been so active and consumed with a sport become withdrawn and sitting in a chair, indoors, all day, was beyond difficult to watch.” Annette’s parents, Johnnie and Terry, raised her on the back of a horse, surrounded by cats, dogs, 018 ALT Magazine | June 2019

and cows. As she watched her father fall deeper into depression after his surgeries, she imagined that if her father had an animal to take care of, it may help him heal. “My experience with animal therapy really is more of a lifetime of interacting with them. As far as seeing it specifically for mental and physical health, I‘ve had the privilege to volunteer at the Running WJ ranch and watch how the students respond to the touch and presence of the horses. It is a miraculous thing,” Annette says. “I spoke to my God-sister, Elizabeth Hughes, who regularly rescues horses from a kill pen in East Texas, and she recommended we get my father a small horse that he could interact with but wasn’t large enough to hurt him.” After weeks of looking for the “right one,” Annette and Elizabeth came across a little brown mini horse who just had a number and no name. He was posted on a site trying to save animals who were going to be euthanized, and they instantly bought him. “Under the guise of ‘I bought a pony and I need your help,’ my parents drove to Forney, Texas, and picked him up,” Annette says. “My dad called me soon after telling me the pony was really cute and really sick. He had shipping cough, multiple small wounds, one of which was an eye injury, was full of worms and was severely underweight, which, unfortunately, is the case all too often with rescue animals. So I let him know I would pay the bills, but I really didn’t have the time to devote to taking care of him if he needed medicine and wound care every day. This was, of course, all part of my master plan.”

Johnnie advised Annette that if they did not do something quick, the pony might die and at the very best might lose an eye! “So, with a little tough love and a lot of premeditated manipulation, I told him that he would be the only hope the pony had to live. He would have to start getting up and going out to the barn every day to take care of him,” Annette says. “At this point, he may have been a little more than agitated.” At first, the pony would not eat and his eye was severely infected. After a few days of “touch and go,” Johnnie called Annette excited. He said, “He’s eating!” Johnnie had been walking out to the barn every day, giving him antibiotic shots, cleaning his eye and tending to his other wounds. I knew then that they were both going to be OK,” Annette says. “Currently, the only problem Little Man has is now the polar opposite of where we started. He is overweight and on a diet. Sadly, he is blind in one eye due to scarring from the infection, but it doesn’t seem to bother him and doesn’t slow him down.” Little Man’s name came from Annette’s exclamations that he was “just like this little man.” He displayed such good manners and such a calm, sweet spirit that the name stuck. After months of both Johnnie and Little Man rehabilitating, they each were much improved. Annette watched their bond and trust grow and strengthen. As they healed, small children in the family and neighborhood would come by and visit Little Man. “He had such a way with them and such an easy disposition I thought he might be safe to take around even more people. I began to wonder if he could have a similar impact on some of my patients as he did with my dad,” Annette says. Annette has been a nurse for 26 years, and after years of acute care nursing and some personal experiences with end of life care, she felt drawn into hospice. She has now been in hospice for 15 years with 11 of those at Dierksen. In March of 2017, the family put Little Man to the test at a Mardi Gras parade held at an Independent/Assisted living facility in Texarkana. “He and dad were dressed alike, which is now a common thing. We kept him towards the back, with a few handlers surrounding him, just in case he decided he didn’t like it, but he was like a fish to water. Not only did he behave, he thrived,” Annette says. “He would go to residents in wheelchairs and stick his nose in their lap. He WANTED the interaction. Dad had so many people asking him questions and telling him how much they loved him that

he was beaming. To have people tell him how well trained Little Man was turned out to be the ultimate compliment. After that, people were posting pictures of him on Facebook and I had other facilities reaching out to me requesting he attend their events.” Little Man’s journey into public figure is really a family affair. Annette and her mother, Terry, make costumes for Johnnie and him. Annette says that Little Man has more outfits than some women have. “So far, dad and Little Man have matching race horse, Mardi Gras, 4th of July, Valentines (Pegasus), Easter (bunny) and of course their favorite, Christmas, where dad is country Santa and Little Man is a reindeer. All of this is in addition to their regular pink and green every day attire,” Annette says. Johnnie hauls Little Man in his own trailer. Little Man even has a riding buddy, a mini hinney horse named PeeWee, aka “Lil Chit.” He’s in training and Annette says it will be a while before he’s performance ready. “Not only has this been such a good thing for Little Man and for our patients, it has been such a good thing for my dad. People brag on his training abilities and tell him what a great job he’s done. My dad has really found purpose and fulfillment again,” Annette says. “He sees what a difference he can make in patient’s lives and it motivates him to do more. Now, my dad volunteers at Running WJ Ranch once a week as a handler. It has been a full-circle situation.” Now Johnnie and Little Man make routine visits to patients at homes and in facilities throughout Dierksen ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 019

them it was ok to pet their own horse. “At that moment the nurse started crying and ran off, and we thought it was odd. She came back with several other staff members, and they all looked on amazed. Perplexed, I ask what was wrong. They said, ‘you don’t understand, this patient doesn’t talk, ever!’” Annette says. “The resident was locked in on Little Man and continued as if he always spoke, telling us how nice he was and stroking his thick soft coat. At that moment, I knew we were serving a higher purpose. There is nothing we could have done to give Little Man the desire to want to be with people; he does that all on his own, and we are fortunate enough to witness it.” In Little Man and Johnnie’s story, the old adage is proved true: “It is in giving, that we receive.” What began as an unlikely friendship has brought healing to owner and horse, and their teamwork has helped bring smiles and joy to everyone who comes in contact with them. “This journey has been such a blessing,” Annette says. “Not only seeing my dad and Little Man become active and healthy again, but seeing the transformation they can have on others. Truly, until you see it, it is difficult to describe.”

Hospice’s two-state, multi-county service area. “His greatest accomplishment thus far is riding in elevators!” Annette says. “His most recent visit was a first time for them to have a Run for the Roses themed event where he wore custom racing silks and dad gave a historical talk on the Kentucky Derby.” If you want to follow Little Man and his adventures, Little Man has several little quirks that make him feel free to add him on Facebook under Little Man stand out, but none more than his intuition to know which the Mini Pony. people NEED him more. “He is always willing to visit with people, but some he seeks out and seems to sense that they need him a little more than others. He will walk past obstacles in patient’s rooms in order to get to them in their hospital beds,” Annette says. “Also, Little Man has officially been adopted as Dierksen Hospice’s therapy pony. It’s our ongoing joke that only in East Texas can you get a mini horse in a nursing home and in your house. Yes, he has been in my patient’s houses. While my parents provide all of the maintenance, care and upkeep for Little Man, Dierksen’s other volunteers provide some materials for custom costumes.” What started as an opportunity for Annette, Johnnie and Little Man to give to hospice patients, has turned into a gift of receiving for them. The first time it happened, they had no idea what was going on. A patient started petting Little Man and looked at them and said “It’s ok, you can pet him.” They didn’t think www.dierksenhospice.com anything of it, other than maybe a 903.793.6350 - Texarkana, TX giggle that a stranger was telling 903.572.320 - Mt. Pleasant, TX | 870.7773.4353 - Texarkana, AR

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ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING Ronya Mae Bentz loves life. Her attitude is infectious and her smile will blind you. Laughter carries her through the day. “Attitude is everything” is her motto. After being diagnosed with adenocarcinoma to the sigmoid colon and metastatic cancer to four lymph nodes and the liver, her life changed dramatically. Ronya married her high school sweetheart 32 years ago, and has been blessed with three grown children and two grand daughters. She has a bachelor’s degree as a Registered Nurse and was in nurse practitioner school to become a Mental Health Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. As crisis assessor for those who are suicidal, homicidal, or delusional, she is in a job she loves - helping others. Ronya says, “My faith in God, my family, friends, and my work are what keeps me fighting for my life. I have always been the one to care for others instead of people helping me. Although I am learning to allow others to help me, I want to continue to give back to a hurting world through working with Riverview Behavioral Health.”

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At 50, Ronya was diagnosed and told by her oncologist that she probably had this cancer for at least a year prior to being diagnosed. She thought symptoms of hemorrhoids, such as bright red rectal bleeding for approximately a year, were nothing to worry about. She also had frequent lower abdominal cramping for a year, but thought it was because she was eating very healthy to lose weight for that entire year and any time she ate fried food, it would lead to abdominal cramps. She struggled with fatigue, but thought it was from working too much, going to Nurse Practitioner school, and taking care of her elderly parents. Ronya began to have pain to her left lower quadrant of her abdomen on a Friday night, November 10, 2018. This pain increased on Saturday, but since she had no fever, she chose not to go to the emergency room. She took her final exam and then stayed in

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the bed the rest of the day due to the pain. Sunday, while at church, the pain became so overwhelming she decided to go to the emergency room as soon as church ended. Ronya says, “The doctors and I were both surprised when the CT scan showed a tumor completely blocking my colon and fixing to rupture my bowel. The emergency room physician stated if I had waited another day, I would have likely died.” Ronya had emergency colon surgery, resulting in 10 inches of her colon being removed and having an ostomy placed on November 12th. She started chemo treatment on January 3, 2019. Ronya’s cancer was removed from her sigmoid colon and two of the affected lymph nodes, and still has four tumors spread throughout her liver. She is currently being treated and hopes to have one of the tumors in the smaller lobe of her liver shrink enough to allow her to have 35% of her liver healthy. She would then qualify for a liver dissection, which is

James J. BOEHMKE, DO

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the only treatment that can save her life. Thinking back, Ronya wishes she had not been passive toward her minor symptoms, had gone on to the ER when her pain worsened on Saturday and paid more attention to her body. “You have to be an advocate for yourself. I am advocating for insurance companies to cover colonoscopies at the age of 45, allowing early diagnosis of cancer to save people’s lives,” Ronya says. “It is important to know your family history. If there is a positive family history of cancer, then this helps get your procedure approved. Since I was diagnosed with colon cancer, my brother had a colonoscopy and they found two polyps. One came back positive as precancerous. Both polyps were removed. If he did not have a family history of colon cancer, his doctor would not have done the colonoscopy. He would have ordered a home test called Cologaurd. A colonoscopy is more accurate although it is a more invasive testing.”

Johnathan D. STEELE, PA-C

Robyn R. KEAHEY, NP-C

According to Ronya, “Dr. Balmain, with Texarkana Gastroenterology Consultants, was such a caring doctor. Her and her staff members took their time making sure all my questions were answered. They knew my Christian faith was important with me and they stopped before doing both of my colonoscopies and prayed with me. Honoring my faith helped decrease my anxiety and made the experience much easier. I received several follow up calls to make sure all my needs were met post-procedure. I could not ask for any better treatment and caring environment than I received at Texarkana Gastro.” Ronya credits her colonoscopy for her diagnosis of adenocarcinoma. Between Dr. Balmain, Dr. Shaun Stussy, Christus St. Michael Cancer Center, UAMS, and MD Anderson all working together as a collective body, she feels blessed beyond measure and knows she is getting the treatment that is needed.

Laura G. BALMAIN, MD

Brian J. SO, MD

Stephen L. STEELE, MD

ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 Texarkana Gastroenterology Consultants | 1920 Moores Lane Texarkana, TX 75503 | 903.792.8030

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STUDENT Hunter Shane Allen knows how to push himself in a way that no one can handle, and that endurance has led him to a successful high school career playing baseball. Hunter, a baseball and basketball player for the Atlanta High School in Atlanta, Texas, just completed his 11th grade year at the 3A school. He spends his time practicing at least 15-20 hours per week and throws the bullpen at least three times a week. Playing since the age of three, Hunter has found himself to be very competitive. “My strength in baseball is being able to throw the ball where I want it to go,” says Hunter, “and my weakness is trying to get loose in cold weather.” However, Hunter’s motivation for winning comes straight from an unexpected source. While others might rely on family members, coaches or peers for motivation, Hunter is motivated by the home plate umpire. “When the umpire yells ‘play ball’ my heart gets to pumping, which motivates me to be the best that I can be on the pitching mound and field,” says Hunter. Hunter has received some exceptional coaching throughout his baseball career. His favorite all-time coach and mentor is David Welch. Hunter also has the privilege to play Texarkana American Legion Baseball for Kevin Sutton every summer as well as train with David Welch at XLR8 during the fall, summer, and weekends when he is not playing ball. When Hunter is not in baseball season, 026 ALT Magazine | June 2019

AT H L E T E he enjoys playing basketball for the Atlanta Rabbits, all while keeping his grades top notch. Hunter has the accolades to back up his love for the game of baseball. When asked what awards he has received, his list was quite impressive. “Second Team All-District Right Field 2018 Baseball, Selective Invitation Only to pitch at the Miami Florida International Power Showcase December 2018 Baseball, Automatically Selected to pitch in Phoenix, Arizona International Power Showcase in November 2019 Baseball, All Stars every year since age 5 in

League Ball until age 14, Nickel Club two times in State Tournament 2013 & 2015 for Strikeouts, Texas Ozone State Champs 2015, All Tournament Selection 2018 Basketball, 14-3A All-District Basketball 2019, and Most Improved Basketball 2018-2019.” Hunter wishes to continue playing baseball in high school, college and eventually, the MLB. But for now, he reflects on the best thing about being a student athlete by saying, “All the little kids look up to me,” and what an honor that is!

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STUDENT During Evan Barron’s high school years, he has been involved in baseball, basketball, football, and track. He has really enjoyed playing all sports, especially track, but baseball has been his love his entire life. Evan Barron just completed his senior year at James Bowie High School in Simms, Texas. “My high school is very small compared to most schools in the state. Even though our school is small, our students are very involved in athletics and most people play every sport,” says Evan. The best part of being a student athlete for Evan is the standard he gets to set for the people around him. Evan says, “I have my flaws along with everyone else, but I am always trying to help others with anything I can. I believe everyone should put others first, but also focus on being the best they can possibly be in anything they do. This is the standard I try to set for everyone around me and be a role model for the ones coming after me.” Evan has been playing baseball since he was three years old. He played one year of Pee Wee football and picked up basketball when he was in first grade. Adding to his athletics, Evan started running track and other sports his school offered in seventh grade. With Evan’s main focus on baseball, he dedicates a lot of time to his training. Evan practices six days a week when he is not playing. He practices around three hours per day, sometimes more, sometimes less. Throwing a bullpen two days a week is also included when he is not pitching during the week. However, Evan always devotes Sunday to resting his body so it will have the proper time to recover. Evan says, “My strengths in the sport are my ability to place the ball where I want it, and just overall knowledge of the game. These two things give me the ability to out think the batters that I am facing and allow me to succeed. I personally don’t think I have a weakness. I tend to think I play a bad game every time I play, no matter how well I perform. This could be considered a weakness, but I use this to always try and better myself the next game.” Evan believes he is a very competitive person. He is competitive with other people, but also with himself. He believes that he should always better himself in anything he does and practice until he is the best he can possibly be. Evan’s fierce competitive spirit and determination to train has definitely paid off for him. When Evan turned eight years old, he started playing select baseball in the summer. He has played every year since, and it has been a source to many great 028 ALT Magazine | June 2019

AT H L E T E memories. Evan says, “All the teams, coaches, and players I have played with have helped benefit me throughout my years of playing the game.” Evans accomplishments as a student athlete are very impressive. “I have been an AllDistrict athlete in baseball, basketball, and football. I have been an Academic All-District Athlete as well. In baseball, my freshman year, I was named 1st Team All-District Shortstop. My sophomore year, I was named District Pitcher of the Year. My junior year, I was named District Offensive Player of the Year. My senior year of football, I was named 1st Team All-District Quarterback, 1st team All-District Safety, 1st Team All-District Punter, and 2nd Team Kicker. I ran track my sophomore, junior, and senior year. I was a Regional Qualifier in the 300 hurdles and high jump my junior year, and again, qualified in those two events along with long jump my senior year,” says Evan. Evan’s determination is not only found in his athletics, but also in the classroom. He is blessed that most school work comes easy to him, but it does not end there. “I hold myself to just as high of a standard in the classroom as I do on the field, so my schoolwork is always on time and done to the best of my ability,” says Evan.

to be in his family. They have always supported Evan throughout his entire life of playing baseball. Sometimes Evan feels they can be tough, but knows they are telling him what he needs to hear and not what he wants to hear. Another long-time motivator in Evan’s life is his all-time favorite coach, Scott Hopkins. Evan says, “My favorite all time coach, other than my Dad, is Scott Hopkins. He became my coach when I was 10 years old when I tried out for his team. We clicked from the day I first met him. He has pushed me harder than any other coach I have played for and is always trying to better me as a person and a player. He has always treated me like one of his own children and is always there if I need him.” With all of Evan’s hard work, hustle and encouragement, he is looking forward to continuing his baseball career. After high school he will continue to play baseball at Seminole State College in Seminole, Oklahoma. He hopes to be a pitcher for their baseball team as well as joining the track team. Evan’s long-term goals include joining the MLB. Evan says, “It has been a dream of mine my entire life, and I have chased that dream for as long as I can remember.”

Evan has found his motivation throughout the years

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STUDENT On a level of one to ten, LeAnn Beasley rates herself a “15” when it comes to being competitive. She says, “I love to win; winning is definitely my thing, and I was raised to be a winner off and on the field.” LeAnn just completed her junior year at Horatio High School in Horatio, Arkansas. Although LeAnn believes Horatio has a small athletic program, it has led her to receiving many accolades throughout her student athlete career playing softball. “While being a student athlete at Horatio, I have been All State, All Conference, All Region, and I also have 3 District championships and 1 Regional championship as well as three state appearances,” says LeAnn, “with the best part having people at my very own school looking up to me”. LeAnn believes her motivation stems from her family; all of her sisters and her brother have accomplished great things, so she feels the needs to fill the shoes they have left for her. Motivation is necessary for her softball, as LeAnn trains year-round working on skills, agilities and other workouts to make herself stronger. LeAnn says, “On average, a good practice is around two hours if you’re doing individual stuff. As a team, I believe it should be at least three hours.” The focus continues off season for LeAnn as she uses that time to work out more and get healthier. “My strengths in softball are my dangerous skills 030 ALT Magazine | June 2019

AT H L E T E at the plate. I’m really good at working pitchers and making them work, nothing is given; also, I know the game. I have a strong arm and I am unwilling to give the team anything; everything is earned. I need to improve my speed, and I personally think I should be throwing the ball harder.” However, LeAnn knows she would not be where she is today without her father and all-time favorite coach. She says, “My all-time favorite coach is my father, Mitch Beasley. He coached at Foreman for years and left with six state championships. He also coached me my entire life and is the definition of a coach.” LeAnn has been given the opportunity to play for the Arkansas Glory softball team, a travelling ball team. When asked what sets her

apart from her peers, LeAnn stated, “I expect to win; I never step on the field thinking ‘we might have this’ or have any doubt in my mind that this team is better than us. I expect to win every day. I never quit. I will play my hardest every game no matter the outcome and I think that’s what makes me stand out above others.” LeAnn wishes to continue her softball journey through high school and college. She knows it is sometimes difficult to keep up with school, work, and sports, but she believes there is no other option than to just get it done. “You have to be responsible, and get your work done in whatever down time you have,” says LeAnn.

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STUDENT Cason Wayne Brigham, a junior at Genoa Central High School, loves the sport of baseball like none other. Cason plays baseball and basketball at Genoa, but his favorite is definitely baseball. “Genoa has a small, but good program,” says Cason, which motivates him to have a successful future in baseball, with a good education at the same time. “The best part of being a student athlete at Genoa Central High School is getting to represent my school in different opportunities,” says Cason. Some of the accomplishments Cason has made while being a student athlete include All Conference, three year starting player, All Star Fall Ball MVP, New Comer of the Year and Pitcher of the Year. Cason attributes his differences in the game to his excellent career as a student athlete. Cason says, “I’m competitive and confident in my pitching. I don’t let other teamsoropponents get to me when I’m on the mound. I play the game with a mindset and attitude that helps me win.” Cason began playing baseball 12 years ago and four of those years were in an athletic program. He practices and works out frequently, normally two to three hours per day. Cason feels his strengths in baseball are definitely pitching and fielding. Throughout his time playing 034 ALT Magazine | June 2019

AT H L E T E baseball, he has discovered his all-time favorite coach to be Tony Adcock. Cason says, “He was my coach the longest, and had the biggest impact on me.” Cason enjoys playing baseball year-round and during his off-time, he focuses on working out or working a summer job. He has enjoyed the opportunity to play for the Arkansas Sticks Baseball team for the last three years.

He states, “I manage to have a lot of good grades, even though I have a lot going on.” Cason also carries a very competitive spirit on the baseball field. “I don’t like to lose; you can’t have a losing mentality at a high level,” says Cason. As far as his future plans, Cason’s first goal is to play baseball at the college level. He also hopes to carry that past the college level.

When it comes to balancing baseball and school work, Cason does not find it difficult.

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STUDENT Riley Hamilton is a senior at Hooks High School. In his four years at Hooks, he won four consecutive district titles. He has been a regional semi-finalist, regional finalist, and has one regional championship to his credit. As a junior, he was awarded a bronze medal at the state tournament for his third-place finish. This season, Riley and his team mate Evan McKeever, were crowned the boys 14AAA district champs! He advanced through regionals and is making his second consecutive appearance at the State Tennis Tournament at Texas A&M University in College Station. Although he has been very successful at tennis, probably his favorite sport is basketball. This past season, he was selected 1st team All-District averaging 13 points per game and connecting on 45 three-point shots. He was also chosen as the MVP for the Hooks Hornet basketball team, who were bi-district champs. Riley began playing tennis in the sixth and seventh grade at Texas Middle School. However, he did not play at all his eighth-grade year because he transferred to Red Lick, a school without a tennis team. Then, as a freshman at Hooks, he resumed playing. Besides tennis and basketball, Riley played baseball from the time he was old enough through his sophomore year at Hooks. At that point he decided to focus on tennis during the spring. “During basketball season, I didn’t practice tennis much at all. Since the two courts at Hooks are not regulation, most of my practices through the years have been at Texarkana College, where I take lessons every now and then. I guess you could say that we have a small athletic program at Hooks. I think that is evident by the fact that the tennis coach also coaches the basketball, golf, and cross-country teams,” Riley says. 036 ALT Magazine | June 2019

AT H L E T E A source of continuous motivation and inspiration for Riley comes from his five-year-old nephew, Brock. Brock was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) when he was around two years old. SMA is a genetic disease that affects the part of the nervous system that controls voluntary muscle movement. Riley says, “Brock is a sweet, very smart and funny kid. He is now in a wheelchair and can’t walk. Through him, I have learned not to take anything for granted. He has taught me to always believe in yourself. Our family wears bracelets that state ‘Believing with Brock’. No matter how hard the situation, you can always push yourself and get through it. He has taught me to stay strong and keep a positive mindset with everything that you do.” Although Riley loves sports, he is now ready to turn the page and move on to begin his college education. “There were a couple of small school

colleges that showed interest in me to play tennis, but I am just ready to focus on graduating from Hooks and then it’s on to the University of Central Arkansas to pursue my nursing degree. My plan is to eventually become a nurse anesthetist. I love competing in tennis and basketball and I am sure I will miss it to some degree. But I will continue to play these sports in some capacity as I get older,” says Riley. Through all of his success in sports, Riley has always been able to balance sports with academics. He will graduate in May as one of the top 10 students at Hooks High School. Because he was able to take dual-credit classes at Hooks, he will be able to graduate in three years from UCA. Riley says, “As soon as I graduate May 31st, I will begin a summer class at UCA the following week. I am going to live with my brother and sister-in-law, Austin and Karla Sewell, in Little Rock while I attend summer school.”

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3900 St. Michael Drive | Texarkana, TX 75503 | 1-430-200-0742 | ResidenceInnTexarkana.com ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 037

STUDENT Seventeen-year-old Kaiden Hunter is a senior at Ashdown High School in Ashdown, Arkansas. Kaiden’s favorite sport is basketball and he plays it as an Ashdown Panther proudly. Although Ashdown has a small athletic program, Kaiden finds great pride in being a student athlete. He says, “The best part of being a student athlete for Ashdown is representing my school.” Kaiden has been participating in athletics since seventh grade, but also played on a youth and AAU basketball team when he was younger. Kaiden’s motivation comes from his drive to be better than he was before. “I’m trying to be the best I can be,” says Kaiden. Kaiden uses this motivation to help with his daily two-hour practices. He trains for the sport by “shooting on the gun at school, lifting weights and working out during the weekends with coaches”. “I am very competitive,” says Kaiden, “and when basketball is not in season, I continue working to better my basketball skills.” Even though enduring setbacks through sprained ankles in basketball, Kaiden has been able to play summer AAU 038 ALT Magazine | June 2019

AT H L E T E basketball for SWARK. Kaiden’s strengths are his quickness and leadership skills, a quality Kaiden says sets him apart from his peers. Balancing academics and athletics responsibilities do not come difficult for Kaiden. He says, “I know if I don’t keep my grades up, I won’t be able to play. If I don’t continue to train hard in basketball, I won’t be able to play.”

or for life.” As far as his future plans, Kaiden wishes to attend college and play basketball on the collegiate level. His long-term goals also include playing overseas after college.

When asked, Kaiden could not decide who is all-time favorite coach was but insisted that all of his coaches were his favorite. He says, “Each coach has given me advice I could use for sports

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

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Cupping

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Tui Na

Chinese style physical therapy or massage

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(903) 793-0042 3201 Richmond Rd., Ste A | Texarkana, TX 75503 ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 039

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040 ALT Magazine | June 2019

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ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 041

STUDENT Keeping a positive attitude about everything she does, whether she wants to or not, allows Kayla Michelle Lafayette to stand out as an excellent student athlete among her peers. Kayla is a senior at Hooks High School in Hooks, Texas, where she enjoys playing volleyball and basketball, running track, and cheering on her Hooks Hornets. Reigning in at only five-foot-tall, Kayla feels her weakness lies in her height, but her strength is her incredible fast speed while playing her favorite sport, basketball. Kayla trains for all of her sports by running yearround. “On a regular school week, I practice about 25 hours per week,” she says, “and I play sports yearround, so I don’t have an ‘offseason’”. Kayla’s hard work and training have paid off for her.“I was 2018 MVP for basketball, 2018 2nd team All-District, 2019 Offensive MVP, and 2019 honorable mention.” Kayla says the best part of being a student athlete is getting to play with girls that she has known her entire life. She has developed close bonds 042 ALT Magazine | June 2019

AT H L E T E with her teammates and cherishes their times together. However, in her seven years of athletics, Kayla has suffered some setbacks. “This year I was injured very badly and had to sit out of athletics for two months,” says Kayla. Although Kayla does not plan to play sports after high school, she does wish to coach volleyball and basketball. Kayla’s favorite two coaches will always be Brandy Crawford and Neil Kiser.

Kayla holds a competitive spirit both on and off the court. “I am a very competitive person, sometimes I even race my friends to see who can eat the fastest,” says Kayla. Kayla doesn’t just pour her heart and soul into her sports, but also her grades. Kayla says, “I can balance the two out pretty well, if I have homework on game days, I will do it on the bus going there or during pre-games.” When asked what her biggest motivation is, Kayla simply replied, “playing for my team”.

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ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 043

STUDENT Darnisha Lykes is a senior at Lafayette County High School and is currently involved in Track and Field while also cheering on her cougars as a Varsity Cheerleader. Representing the 2A school from Stamps, Arkansas, Darnisha has a great love for track as a student athlete. “Being a student athlete for Lafayette County has a lot of perks to it. I love representing my school in the best way I can, and I love when I go out somewhere people identify me as ‘that fast girl from LC,’” says Darnisha. Darnisha desires to run track on the collegiate level, but in the mean time she spends her time working hard for her sport. On average, she practices five out of seven days of the week and an average of two hours each day. Darnisha says, “When it is not track season I still train. When I get out of school track, I go straight to AAU track, and by time that is over, it is time to go back to school. My long-term goal for this sport is to push my body to the max and see my times get faster. I want to be as fast as I can possibly be and use my talent for this sport in other expects of life. Track is a sport that teaches self-motivation.” Training is one part of Darnisha’s everyday routine. School plays a large 044 ALT Magazine | June 2019

AT H L E T E roll in her life and she has learned time management is something she must rely on to balance both her athletic and academic responsibilities. Lafayette County High School has recognized her hard work by rewarding her with the “Ms. Cougar” award. Darnisha says, “This award is for an athlete that not only excels in sports but maintains good grades.” She has also been honored with the Wendy’s Heisman local scholarship for being an outstanding athlete. So how does Darnisha stay so motivated to train in this intense sport of track and field? “I have a lot of motivations. Track is the reason most people know me, and I just honestly do not want to let anyone down. Everyone is counting on me to do something great and big with my life and track has done that for me. The love and adrenaline rush I have when the gun goes off is the biggest motivation I have for this sport alone,” says Darnisha. Darnisha attributes her strengths in track to giving her all in any event she is placed in. She is a 100 and 200 meter dash runner, but if her coach puts her in the 400 meter or long jump, she is able to do those as well. Darnisha has been participating in athletics since she was in seventh grade and has developed quite the competitive spirit. “I am competitive to the point where I will watch someone do something and will try to do it 10 times better,” Darnisha says. She has worked hard to make a name

for herself after moving to Lafayette County in sixth grade. Through this perseverance, training, and keeping her head in the books, Darnisha is now known by many and it is for great achievements.

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.

Dustin Stringer, AAMS Financial Advisor

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.

ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 045

STUDENT Second team All-Conference, All Conference, All State, Outstanding Offensive Player, First Team All-District, First Team All-State, First Team All-Conference, All State Tournament Team and the honor of playing on the All Stars Volleyball Team at the University of Central Arkansas are just a few of the accolades Adaysia Thompson has received due to her hard work and perseverance. Adaysia is a senior at the 3A Ashdown High School in Ashdown, Arkansas, where she is a Varsity player for the school’s basketball, softball, and her favorite, the volleyball team! Receiving these high honors doesn’t come without hard work. Adaysia says, “People always tell me that my hardworking attitude is what sets me apart from my peers. Every coach says that I have a glow about myself that people are drawn to.” Adaysia’s daily routine includes a solid five hours of training, both with her team and individually. “I am very competitive,” says Adayisa, and that drive has earned her a spot on the 501 Club Volley team out of Little Rock, Arkansas. Not only does Adaysia hustle hard for her sports, but also for her school work. “It’s very difficult with my travel volleyball. I need to drive to Little Rock and around that time, it gets dark really quick. I literally have to rush to get my work done in class, but thankfully I always have it finished before I leave school,” Adaysia states. 046 ALT Magazine | June 2019

AT H L E T E Adaysia has suffered setbacks in her time as an athlete. Her worst injury was in basketball where she tore some muscle fibers in her calf and missed the state tournament. However, through 13 years of softball, and six years of basketball and volleyball, Adaysia has found her motivation for pushing through. She says, “I have three big motivations: First would be God, because He died for me, so I play for Him. Second would be my family, because they worked so hard for me to be where I’m at. Finally, I would say myself, because I want to showcase myself at the highest level possible.”

Adaysia has thoroughly enjoyed her time as a student athlete at Ashdown. The best part for her is the opportunity to be a role model to the younger students. Adaysia’s all-time favorite coach is also from Ashdown, Coach Anna Tillery. Adaysia continues to train for her sports in the off season. “One of my biggest strengths is placing the volleyball when I hit it, however, my weakness for the moment is spot serving,” says Adaysia. Her future plans include continuing her volleyball career at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, while majoring in Education. Adaysia plans to become a volleyball or softball coach.

ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 047

STUDENT Ty Watts, a senior at James Bowie High School in Simms, Texas, has a deep love for football. Ty currently powerlifts and plays football for the 2A James Bowie School and has a strong work ethic to back it up. “Being determined and having totally different priorities than most of my peers makes me different,” says Ty, “but in the end, it is an honor to represent my school and my community.” Ty believes his strengths in football lie in his ability to break tackles while earning extra yards. He absolutely hates to lose and considers himself “very” competitive. Ty says, “I strive to always get better by setting goals.” He trains for the intense sport of football by weightlifting, running, and strict meal planning. On average, Ty practices two hours a day, five days a week. “I’ve played football since third grade, and powerlifted all four years of high school,” says Ty. Even though injuries have played a part in his student athlete career, Ty has not let it discourage him from the sport. “I knocked a hip out of place my freshman year and managed to sprain an ankle 048 ALT Magazine | June 2019

AT H L E T E and split my nose open my senior year,” says Ty, “but you must keep training.” Ty’s all-time favorite coach is Garrett Kruse and his motivation comes from friend and teammate, Scott Akins, who is currently recovering from a TMI. Through this motivation, Ty has managed to receive several recognitions throughout the years. “All District Football all four years of high school, State Qualifier in powerlifting my junior and senior years, and District MVP my senior year,” says Ty.

Ty wishes to play football as a Mulerider at Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia, Arkansas while earning a degree in Kinesiology.

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ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 049

SCENE IN ALT

Julin Brewer, Janella Garrett, Carole Boswell

Beth Brine, Vida Brine

Nancy Eatman

Lucille Howkins, Pat Woods, Georgia McFoul

Wanda Henry, Doris Morris

Charlotte Hueter, Freddie Johns

Beverly Tye, Kathie Eaton, Kay Mohundro, Alice McMillan, Bobbye Lemmerhirt, Rosemary White

Bonnie Wilson, Sandra Moore

Ginny Dowdle, Wanda Ingram, Sylvia Ingram

Irene Johnson, Mary Young

Andrea Worley, Bobbye Lemmerhirt, Beverly Tye, Rita Freeman

Paula Lewis, Mel Walsh, Nancy King, Lawanda Rich

LaWanda Rich, Robin Proctor

Rebecca Brown, DeAnna Craytor

Gene McAuley, Janice Martin

Barbara McCash, Alice McMillan

A BOUQUET OF GARDEN CLUBS 03.08.2019

050 ALT Magazine | June 2019

SCENE IN ALT TEXARKANA DRAGON BOAT RACE 05.18.2019

Wadley Water Warriors

Cooper Tire Knights

Ginger Rodriguez, Cindy Ryan

Rusty McCrary, Jerry Snider, Tyler Guyton, Will Carter, Juan Tapia

Janice Jeter, Beth Murphy

Paul Prange, Samantha Martin, Mae Lewis, Patricia Fleming

Riley Drew, Quenna Davis, Spencer Drew

Kelly Burns, Karsyn Burns

Pamela Reynolds, Tracy Atwood, Jennifer Ogle, Linda Cox, Tim Reynolds, Katie Gentry

Two Dragon Boat teams racing

David Rowton, Alex Rowton

Shannon Stovall, Marty Alexander, Caylor Thompson

LaKisha Lofton, Ellison Stinson, Fantasia Curley

Erico Timbang, Dondee & Cheryll Llave ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 051

SCENE IN ALT

Donna Glod, Jennifer Davis, Dana Scott, Cristi Lummus

Nicola Benning, Jill Whittington, Rebecca Leighton, LeAnne Wright

Jenni Hedrick, Courtney Boeckmann

Phillip DeRouen, Anne Douglas

Shelia Cook, Charlotte Nyman, Sara Barnette

Vicki Melde, Pam Beck, Dianne Paulocci

Courtney LeBrun, Jenell Ingram

Courtney LeBrun, Virginia Trammell

Summer Nelson, Mark Missiledine, Brenda Riley

Jacqueline Gooding, Martha Priekscorn, Judy Morgan, Missy White

TEXAS A&M TEXARKANA ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP CELEBRATION 05.09.2019

Emily Culver, Heather McKnight

Pam McCoy, Jo Kahler

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

For events, send an email including the name of the event, a brief description, and pictures with each person's name. For the calendar section, send all the information that you may want in the magazine. We will pick the most important parts depending on space available.

send information to info@alt-mag.com 052 ALT Magazine | June 2019

SCENE IN ALT

Tammy Ward, Tess Baker, Kayla Jefferies, Selena Jefferies

Stephanie Syler, Sandra Price, Scott Burks

David & Susan Whitten

Christa Lawrence, Rebekah Horn, Keith Baxley

Jenny Blanke, Nancy Edwards

Stacey Black, Kelley Brush, Laurie Martin, Jennifer Page

Debbie Lively, Von Hernandez

Ashley Alexander, Joyce Miller

Susan Whitten, Scott Burks

Teresa Liepman, Porsche Hawkins

WOMEN WEALTH, WELLNESS, AND WINE 05.13.2019

Ashley Alexander, Suzie ???????????/

ALT

David Whitten during his presentation

Wants to wish all fathers a very Happy Father's Day!

magazine

covering the ark-la-tex

ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 053

SCENE IN ALT REDWATER GROUND BREAKING CEREMONY 05.10.2019

KNOW YOUR WORTH 05.18.2019

054 ALT Magazine | June 2019

The new generation of emergency care.

Drug Take Back Initiative Operation Medicine Cabinet

The Texarkana Arkansas Police Department is proud to partner with Texarkana Emergency Center in an effort to remove unused and out of date prescription medicines from your homes. •It is important to know that law enforcement is only interested in the removal of unused and/or outdated medications from the homes of our citizens. •It matters not whose name is on the prescription, by whom it was prescribed, where it was prescribed, or where you reside. •We stress that it makes no difference if you live in Texas or Arkansas. •We take back all medications, no questions asked. You can remove the label if you desire but it’s not necessary. •We ask that you do not deposit needles (sharps), inhalers, medication from businesses or clinics, ointments, lotions, liquids, aerosol cans, hydrogen peroxide, or thermometers.

One box has been placed behind the Bi State Justice Building at 100 N. State Line Ave., Texarkana, Arkansas and another outside the Texarkana Emergency Center, 4646 Cowhorn Creek Rd., Texarkana, Texas. These boxes are regularly checked and the contents are immediately packaged for destruction. If you would like to personally drop your medications off to law enforcement, you can at the Miller County Sheriff ’s Office on East Street and Bi State Justice Building in Texarkana.

You can learn more about this program by visiting www.artakeback.org or on Facebook by searching Arkansas Take Back or Arkansas Drug take Back. FIND

TexarkanaEmergencyCenter.com US ON 4646 Cowhorn Creek | Texarkana, TX 75503 | 903.838.8000

ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 055

STRINGER WEALTH MANAGEMENT RAYMOND JAMES FINANCIAL STRINGERWEALTHMANAGEMENT.NET

Income

hen you think about investing, you probably think about your financial plan, stocks, bonds, asset allocation, risks and rewards. But do you consider how investing your human capital – in your career – can also boost your net worth? Not everyone can or wants to work for themselves, so those who have an employer – even those at the peak of their careers – have opportunities to increase their value at the office. Here’s a look at some investments that could pay dividends, so to speak.

You,Inc. As the CEO, it’s your job to invest in and nurture your career

Set goals Like with financial planning, investing in your career without clear goals can lead you off track. Do you want more flexibility? Less stress? More high-visibility assignments? Know what you want and work toward that. Maintain clear goals and reassess them at least once a year to reinforce your commitment to achieving them.

Create a plan Set your short-, mid- and long-term goals and create an actionable, realistic plan around each. A plan involves taking steps to achieve

your goals and reassessing on a regular basis to ensure your career is on track. Have a plan, too, for problems or opportunities you happen to see. It helps to approach your boss with at least two ways to address the problem or opportunity and go in prepared to support your recommendations.

Check your balance sheet Tally your professional assets and liabilities. You may be great at marketing yourself and paying attention to detail, but less able to voice and defend an opinion or build consensus among disparate teams. It’s important to understand what you bring to the table, what you want next and seize opportunities to showcase that in a way that inspires others to help you get to the next level. To identify those assets and liabilities, invite feedback from trusted allies who can help you turn liabilities into strengths. You won’t be good at all things, but pursue excellence by deliberately practicing to overcome weaknesses, over-preparing and using all the tools at your disposal – including partnering with those who have strengths you lack – so you can compensate when you need to.

Invest Now that you know where you want to go, how will you get there? You have already paid your dues, but

featured 056 ALT MagazineAs | June 2019 inWORTHWHILE, a quarterly periodical dedicated to serving the clients of Raymond James advisors and affiliated advisory firms.

being complacent isn’t likely to take you any further down your chosen career path. Invest time and money – your company may even reimburse you – into learning new skills and better understanding your industry. That may mean pursuing formal certifications, training and degrees or informally gaining knowledge through books, podcasts or mentors; networking; volunteering on a committee for a nonprofit or serving on a board of directors. And lest you think it’s not worth pursuing an advanced degree in the later stages of your career, think again. Another degree may differentiate you and facilitate a move from experienced worker to trusted consultant, for example.

Know your worth This goes beyond knowing what you’re good at. You’ll need to market yourself throughout your career, not just during job interviews, so you’ll also need to be able to identify opportunities and sell yourself to get the higher-paying job and negotiate the best deal possible. If you haven’t already, create a brand and create a presence – on- and off-line – that helps people identify you as a strategic thinker and thought leader. LinkedIn, for example, can help you develop influential networks and showcase your successes and professional abilities.

Take risks Like with financial investing, you may need to take strategic risks. Volunteer to pitch an idea to an important client or take on a project you haven’t worked on before. Stay later than normal when necessary. Voice an opinion when you think you see a problem. Ask questions to gain clarification. Develop a reputation for thinking critically, being willing to step outside of your comfort zone and seeking bold solutions.

You may need to make a case with your boss. Go in prepared with what you’re seeking, how it’ll benefit the company and why you deserve the extra responsibility – and money. Know your competitive advantages – it’s OK to brag on your- self – but be sure to also give credit where it’s due. Year-end is often a good time for this conversation, but if you’ve kept your eyes open and see change on the horizon, don’t wait to plant a seed among the powers Expand your horizons even further by that be and be sure to follow up. understanding the business culture ••• in countries where your company Maximize your life conducts business. Knowing how Investing in yourself gives you the to communicate effectively across clarity and tools to create a solid borders and disciplines may give foundation for your professional you a distinct advantage in a global future. Yes, sometimes you’ll have economy. to take risks, but the payoff could

Diversify

You can’t be all things to all people. You’ll need to partner with people who complement your strengths and can help you hone them. Find and invest time in people who can mentor you and lead by example – not necessarily in the same company or industry as you are. And, in turn, find talented people who you can help develop into the next generation of leaders.

be more than worth it. As with financial investing, it helps to have Forgive the pun, but take stock of the a proactive and thoughtful plan for talented people around you. When achieving – and exceeding – your you allocate assets in a portfolio, life goals. you’re grouping investments that Sources: thebalancecareers.com; monster.com; work well together, in good times esimoney.com; ellevate.com and bad. Same here. Build teams that give good people opportunities Return on investment to excel and shine at different times. You’ll develop a reputation as an Steadily and consistently increasing your salary can literally add millions ambassador of the organization and over the course of your career. a strong leader.

Allocate assets

First salary: $40,000 + Modest 3% annual Offices come with politics and gossip pay raises

Ignore the noise

– some useful, some harmful, just like headline news and investing. Some of it indicates trends; a lot of it is noise that is par for the course. Hone your ability to tell the difference. Keep your eyes and ears open, but know what you need to act on (potential problems that may blindside your managers) and what you can and should ignore (general complaints, idle watercooler talk).

Outperform At some point, you’ll be seen as an overachiever, a go-to, reliable colleague, but that may not be enough to land the next promotion.

45 years later, you’ve cumulatively earned: $3.7

million

Bump your percentage by even 1%: $4.8 million Another 1% increase?

$6.4 million

© 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-0028 CW 11/18

ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 057

Fish Tales with Mike Brower Rumba Rumba Well, I got a rude awakening today. I just found out that the wake bait called a “Rumba” is not being made anymore. I am not happy. If you ever fished one you would understand my disappointment. They swim across the top of the water creating a wake and a wobble. When a bass attacks one, it is a sight. They want it dead and right now. I’m not sure what I will replace it with when I lose my last one. Now I’m real particular about using one since I only have three left and one of those is a sucky color. This should teach me to buy more of a favorite bait, but I have boxes of that stuff in the garage. I do go through the boxes occasionally to see if the old stuff still can catch fish. But that does me no good, since I’m scared to throw one except in a tournament because I might lose it. So tip of the day is buy several of what works and don’t be like Mike.

600 N Kings Hwy I Wake Village, TX I 903.832.5438

no more excuses 058 ALT Magazine | June 2019

ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 059

What's on the AGENDA?

JUNE 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

06.02.2019 Cancer Survivor's Day - 6:00pm

The W. Temple Webber Cancer Center at CHRISTUS St. Michael is celebrating National Cancer Survivors Day by recognizing and supporting cancer patients and those who care for them during a Cancer Survivors Day Celebration at 4 p.m. on Sunday, June 2, 2019 in the CHRISTUS St. Michael Dining Atrium and Courtyard, at 2600 St. Michael Drive in Texarkana. The event will include light refreshments, inspirational testimonials from cancer survivors in the community and a balloon release to honor and acknowledge cancer survivors. Cancer survivors and their loved ones are encouraged to attend. Seating is limited, and reservations are requested. Reservations can be made by calling toll-free 1-855614-MIKE (6453) or by registering online at www.christusstmichael.org/cancersurvivorday.

06.08.2019 Neal McCoy - 7:00pm

Neal McCoy has released fifteen studio albums on various labels, and has released 34 singles to country radio and is performing at Scottie's Grill on June 8th. Doors open at 6:00pm and the concert starts at 7:00pm. Reserved seats are $35, Advanced general admission, 18 and up, $25.

06.09.2019 Farm Fresh Faith VBS - 6:00pm

Northern Hills Baptist Church, 6000 Sammy Lane, Texarkana, AR is hosting their Vacation Bible School program June 9-14, 2019. Join us for this exciting and interactive learning experience for Ages 0 through 12th grade each night at 6pm. We even have an Adult Class that meets in our sanctuary. For more information, please call our church office at 870.773.3580. We hope to see you there!

06.14.2019 The Legend of Boggy Creek Premiere - 7:30pm

The Fouke Monster returns. Please join us, one again, at the historic Perot Theater, to see the restored, remasterd, motion-picture, cult-classic, "The Legend of Boggy Creek". Tickets can be purchased at www.trahc.org.

06.18.2019 STEM Social Sutdies Camp - 8:30am

Campers will use science, technology, engineering and math to design and recreate different pieces of history. Join us as we explore history through engineering challenges and other fun activities. Students will experience firsthand how STEM affects the past. June 18-22, 8:30am-Noon, for incoming 4th through 6th grade students only. For more information, contact Jennell Ingram, Coordinator of Acadmic Services, at 903.793.7561, extension 1306.

06.19.2019 DLA's 2019 Hail & Farewell - 6:00pm

Please make plans to join us for the Hail & Farewell celebration for Incoming Lieutenant Colonel Seth M. Olmstead and Outgoing Lieutenant Colonel Jeffery P. Chamberlain. Tickets are $35 (prepay only), limited seating and must be RSVP by June 10th. Dress is Casual/Civilian. Register online or contact the Chamber at 903.791.71981.

06.24.2019 TC Kid's College - 9:00am

Summer fun for Ages 7-12! This year, Kids’ College will be ONE WEEK with longer, more intensive classes—meaning more hands-on learning! Classes are available from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-4 p.m., so kids can attend all day. You can also purchase a lunch pass so your student can have the lunch of their choice in the Bulldog Bistro, just like a real college student. Plus, kids will pick a COLLEGE MAJOR for the first time ever, and on the last day, they’ll have the opportunity to participate in a graduation ceremony.

060 ALT Magazine | June 2019

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903.336.6139

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

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR UPDATES AND SPECIALS!

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

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

Holiday Cleaners

Making laundry day EASY for you! NOW OPEN IN TWO LOCATIONS!! 1443 N. Kings Hwy. 903. 838. 0422

K-Mart Shopping Center 903. 223. 0149

Donuts are ALWAYS the Answer!

870.773.4072 ALT-Mag.com | June 2019 061

Local Rescues

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

WILLOW

Boxer Rescue of Texarkana

PEARL

Texarkana Animal League

PETER

Passion For Pooches

ATLANTA ANIMAL LEAGUE Facebook.com/ AtlantaAnimalLeague BOXER RESCUE OF TEXARKANA Facebook.com/ BoxerRescueOfTexarkana MUTTLEY CREW GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUE Facebook.com/ MuttleyCrewRescue POODLE PATCH RESCUE INC PoodlePatchRescue.com PASSION FOR POOCHES (mostly small dogs) Facebook.com/passionforpooches TEXARKANA ANIMAL LEAGUE Facebook.com/ TexarkanaAnimalLeague

QUEENIE

Arklatex Cocker Spaniel Rescue

MOLLY

Muttley Crew

HOPE

Poodle Patch Rescue Inc.

FOSTERS NEEDED!

CONTACT LOCATE RESCUES TO FIND OUT MORE INFORMATION!

ANIMAL CARE & ADOPTION CENTER

TEXARKANA HUMANE SOCIETY TexarkanaHumaneSociety.org Facebook.com/ TexarkanaHumaneSocietyInc TEXARKANA REPTILE & AMPHIBIAN RESCUE Facebook.com/TkReptileRescue 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. 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. Open Monday-Friday 11AM 5PM; Saturday 11AM - 2PM.

062 ALT Magazine | June 2019

Featured Listings 3808 Sylvia Dr. Check out this fantastic home that features three bedrooms, two baths, open floor plan great for entertaining family and friends. Gas log fireplace in family room, tall ceilings throughout. Nice size kitchen with island and granite counter tops, this home has so much cabinet space and storage. Privacy fenced back yard.

4319 Dakoda Ln

Bill Spradlin Realtor 903-748-3186

Tracy Spradlin Broker 903-748-2477

Wonderful home with open floor layout, great for entertaining family and friends. Beautiful wood floors, high ceilings, split master bedroom arrangement. Large kitchen with island, pantry and granite counter tops. Gas log fireplace in family room, master bath features Jacuzzi tub with separate shower and double sink vanity, nice size walk in closet. Don’t miss this one, schedule your showing today!

Jan Williams Realtor 903-277-5771

Stephanie Maddox Realtor 903-701-1341

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

Escape Impact

Whether you are new to the

with Realty Group LLC

market or an experienced

investor, we have the expertise, proven track record, and resources to help you achieve your real estate goals.

Making an Impact on Today’s Real Estate. Where Dreams Come Home.

Perfect 10 acre spot to build your dream home. Great location, partially cleared with lots of mature trees.

Bill Spradlin Realtor 903-748-3186

Tracy Spradlin Broker 903-748-2477

Jan Williams Realtor 903-277-5771

Stephanie Maddox Realtor 903-701-1341

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