2019 February ALT Magazine

February 2019 | Volume 13 | Issue 2

ALT

Local Weddings

magazine

covering the ark-la-tex

Love Endures All Things

As for me and my house we will serve the Lord.

(Joshua 24:15)

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F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 9 / Vo l u m e 1 3 / I s s u e 2

magazine

covering the ark-la-tex

10

Love Endures All Things

54

Financial Focus

18

Westridge 30th Anniversary

56

Fish Tales

24

Ark-La-Tex 100 Club

59

Calendar of Events

30

Transforming Hardships into Blessings

60

Local Rescues

34

Local Weddings

61

Ribbon Cuttings

Inside This Month...

Local Weddings

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, Jaclyn Gooding, Karen Lansdell

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From the Publisher...

Love is in the air. It's February, and that means Valentine's Day is just around the corner. I can't wait because I get to share the love of a wonderful couple as they are married that evening.

I will document every wonderful moment.

I recently spent time at the Texarkana Bridal Fair sharing information with prospective brides about our photography packages. It's always so much fun to watch newly engaged women gathering information, so excited about the future ahead, including planning their wedding. I try to encourage them to remember that the day should be about their marriage -- not about their wedding. Remember, whatever happens, whatever isn't perfect, whatever is missing, they will be married when the day is over. That's what counts. That's what they need to concentrate on.

Being a photographer at so many weddings throughout the years, I have helped calm nerves, I have put makeup back on a bride when she has cried it off, I have searched for items that seem to be missing, and I have called florists to make changes. With so many brides who have no formal coordinator, my job tended to become a combination of both photographer and coordinator. Whatever made the wedding as perfect for the bride as possible is what I wanted to do. It's what I still want for any bride.

I have been told that I need to write a book about all the things that have happened over the past 20 years of photographing weddings. There are so many instances where we have enjoyed laughter and just as many where we cried. The majority of our brides have truly been wonderful -- only a few bridezillas -- and we love them even to this day.

My own wedding was very small, with family and a few close friends in attendance. I learned the importance of having a professional photographer that day when only

08 ALT Magazine | February 2019

about half of my photos turned out. But it didn't matter, our marriage has turned out to be amazing! We will be celebrating 30 years of marriage in November. There were so many that said we would never make it a year.

LOL! I guess we made it a little longer than that and we made a lot of new friends along the way.

Some of those people stay with you.

That was the case for the sisters three -Thelma, Lea and Skye. I love these women.

They are all strong, beautiful, loyal and intelligent.

All are successful women with amazing careers. And all love each other with a love that I cannot explain unless you know them. They are a team. It's wonderful to see siblings who are close to each other and love each other without failing.

Years ago, I met Thelma while photographing her baby, Mia. I will never forget what a wonderful mom she was -- trying her best to help me get Mia to smile. It was a wonderful moment when her sister, Lea, contacted me regarding her wedding. When I found that Skye was ready for me to shoot her maternity and newborn pics, I was elated. The circle was complete. The funny thing is, I truly had no idea how wonderful these women were. I knew they supported each other, but until I read Skye's story, the scope of their relationship was not clear.

Please take a few minutes to read their story and enjoy the portraits from Lea's wedding. I will look at all of the portraits with a different view from now on. Many people wish they had one person in their life to depend on, love and trust. God has truly blessed this family and He has blessed mine.

May God bless you and yours.

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Love Endures All Things The true love story of Skye and Gary Do. by: Anne Granado In a world of failed romance and scripted reality, it is hard to know which relationships are real and which are just an illusion.

However, every once in a while, you come across a love story that inspires and renews your faith in possibilities. A local couple from Texarkana, Gary and Skye Do, have a story like this. Through merging racial lines, blending family traditions, facing medical problems, and enduring fertility treatments, the couple remain true to each other, emerging on the other side of trials and tribulations stronger than ever. Then this past November, their dreams came true, and Samuel, their son was born. Real and committed, this couple hopes God uses their story to give hope to others. “God has blessed us. When we met in 2001, Gary and I never thought we would get married and have a son. It wasn’t our plan,” Skye says. “We thank God for our family and His perfect plan!”

Gary and Skye have been married seven years, but they actually met when they were both students at Arkansas High School. They first saw each other in band class.

Gary played the trumpet and the baritone, and Skye played the clarinet. With all their mutual friends in the class, Gary and 010 ALT Magazine | February 2019

Skye became friends as well. In 2002, Gary graduated from Arkansas High School and went to the University of Arkansas. In 2005, Skye also decided to attend the University of Arkansas on a twirling band scholarship. The two were reunited when Gary reached out to Skye with a phone call. “I was sitting in my dorm room and the phone started ringing,” Skye says.

“This was strange because no one ever called the room phone. My roommate answered the phone and told me it was for me. It was Gary! I must say I gave him a hard time over the phone.

I was surprised to hear from him after 3 years! I teased Gary and told him my parents told me to beware of stalkers and Gary started to laugh. However, Gary was really polite over the phone.

He gave me his phone number and told me I could call him if I needed help with anything.”

Gary had heard that Skye was on campus and had looked up her number in the university directory. They spent some time catching up on the phone that night, and fate brought them together the next day. “The very next

day after I called her, I was on my way to a morning class, and someone bumped into me and knocked all my textbooks and papers out of my hands. I turned around, and to my surprise, it was Skye!” Gary says. “I ran into her numerous other times during that week. We began hanging out with mutual friends and began dating a couple of months later. From that point on, we were inseparable, and our love grew more each day.”

It was important to both Gary and Skye that they build their relationship on the foundation of their faith in God. Gary would come and pick Skye up on Sunday mornings, and they would go to church together.

“Even then, Gary and I knew the importance of being able to worship together. We also went to a couple of marriage classes before we got married,” Skye says. “Our marriage advice for other couples is always about the importance of God in their relationship. We worship together, pray together, and pray for one another.”

Besides a strong focus on faith, the best relationship advice Gary can give focuses on communication. For Gary, talking, even about the little things, and listening to the other’s opinion and thoughts is the foundation for any successful relationship. “I know I can tell Skye anything that is on my mind. We talk about our day, our thoughts, or share funny stories from our week. Every topic is open for discussion,” Gary says.

“By talking about the little things, we make it easier to talk about more important topics in the future. Part of our time spent alone together is to freely discuss our feelings. Part of communication is also listening.

It is important we can listen to each other without being defensive and interrupting each other.”

Before they knew it, months turned into years. Skye graduated from the University of Arkansas in 2009 and began teaching with the

Texarkana Arkansas School District.

Skye teaches kindergarten at Trice Elementary School and voluntarily teaches the Trice Twirling Team. The couple did not like having a longdistance relationship. Gary, who had been working in Fayetteville since he graduated in 2007, returned to Texarkana a few months after Skye.

He is currently the Office Manager of the Arkansas Workforce Center in Hope.

Skye has a very small family in Texarkana while Gary comes from a very large family. Over the years, Skye has enjoyed the warmth and love shown to her by Gary’s family.

The first time she met them, she was a little overwhelmed. He invited her to his grandparent’s house for a big Christmas meal. “I bet I met over 50 people. I was surrounded by food: Vietnamese food and American food.

I was nervous at first, but everyone was so friendly and made me feel

right at home,” Skye says. “I never had Vietnamese food...His mom had a buffet! I quickly became a fan of his mom’s Vietnamese fried rice and stir fry. Our different race was not an issue for either of our families. First, God loves all of us regardless of what color we are. As an interracial family, I believe Gary and I are examples of this.”

As their relationship progressed, Gary knew that he wanted to propose to Skye and spend the rest of his life with her. For Gary, Skye is the epitome of beauty, grace, and godliness.

“One of my favorite qualities is her passion for everything. No matter the phase of life, she is always going to do her best and give 100%,” Gary says.

“Whether her job as a mother, wife, or teacher, I know Skye is putting in every effort to ensure her job is completed to the best of her ability while placing the needs of everyone above herself.”

However, Mr. Metcalf, Skye’s father, did not make the proposal easy. The story of how and when Gary proposed is one of his favorites to tell. “In April 2010, my mom informed me she received a telephone from Skye’s father requesting a meeting with my parents and me along with Skye and her parents. Skye and I both

ALT-Mag.com | February 2019 011

had an idea of the topic of the meeting, but we didn’t know for sure,” Gary says. “After the initial small talk and as the meeting progressed, Mr. Metcalf asked Skye and I both about the seriousness of our relationship and if we planned on one day getting married. We both agreed and informed everyone that we had previously discussed our future together, and it was our intent to marry each other at some point in the future. At the conclusion of the meeting, Mr. Metcalf stated that I had his blessing to ask for Skye’s hand in marriage.”

About a month later, Gary selected a ring and went to Mr. Metcalf's home to present it to him. Gary arrived at the Metcalf home, and Mr. Metcalf was in the process of assembling a swing set in his backyard for his granddaughter.

He asked for Gary’s assistance, and Gary joined him in the labor. Hours later, when the swingset was assembled, Gary presented him with the ring and informed him of his intent to ask Skye to marry him. “He looked at me and told me he needed time to think about it, even though he previously gave me his blessing!” Gary says. “As the weeks went by, I would casually bring up the topic, and he told me that even though he liked me, it was difficult to give away his baby girl and he needed more time to think about it. I told him I understood.

After much persistence, he finally agreed around two months after the initial meeting. I proposed to Skye on July 3, 2010, in her parent’s backyard, right next to the swing set I 012 ALT Magazine | February 2019

helped assemble! I thought it would only be fitting!”

Skye had no hesitation in saying “yes” to Gary’s proposal. She had fallen in love with his steadfast integrity and unconditional support.

“Gary always encourages and supports me with whatever I am doing. Most of the time he is right beside me, encouraging and motivating me. I have been back to school twice and have completed two master’s degrees. Gary has never once complained,” Skye says. “When I’ve felt like giving up or taking a break, he has motivated me to continue. Gary is also the best listener. I can talk to him about whatever. I believe our love of Christ and our ability to communicate with each other has allowed us to have a wonderful marriage.”

While planning the wedding, Skye was still trying to finish her masters degree. Skye has earned two master’s degrees: one from Southern Arkansas University and the other at Arkansas State University-Jonesboro. Though she considered quitting classes so she could focus on the wedding, Gary and Skye’s parents encouraged her to finish. Skye’s mom wanted them to wait until December before they got married, but they both wanted a summer wedding. They got married on June 4, 2011, after six years of dating. The ceremony was both Vietnamese and traditional. The whole celebration was a blending of their two families and cultures.

“At the Vietnamese ceremony, his entire family came over to my house before the wedding and each family member gave us their blessing and words of encouragement. Gary’s family started first and then my family. Then both of our parents presented both of us with gifts, and we presented them with gifts,” Skye says. “I had three dresses for my wedding day: a Vietnamese wedding gown, a traditional wedding gown, and a gown for the Vietnamese ceremony.

The wedding was done in Vietnamese and English.

Still today, both of our families are close and have a great relationship with one another. We often celebrate holidays together as one big family.”

Looking back, the couple is so glad that they decided to have the wedding in the summer, the way they had envisioned it. No one could have predicted the trials they would face that winter. On December 11,

2011, Skye’s dad had a heart attack and passed away. On December 16, 2011, the day after Skye’s dad’s funeral, her grandpa died of a heart attack. “Both passed suddenly, and both passed minutes before I could get to the house to see them. I just saw my grandpa the day before at my dad’s funeral. My grandpa even spoke at the funeral and didn’t show any signs of being ill. I was in shock and couldn’t believe it,” Skye says. “I lost two of the best men I’ve ever known only days apart from each other. Gary was there to help me through this difficult time. Gary knew when I needed a shoulder to cry on and when I was just having a difficult day. I felt like all I could do was pray. Pray for peace and comfort for my family. Even though I couldn’t understand it, I just kept saying to myself God doesn’t make mistakes. Heaven gained two great men.”

As the years went by, Skye and Gary began to think about starting a family. However, Skye began to have some concerning health problems. It all started with a low pulsing sound in her ear. At first, she thought it was nothing and expected it to go away. She saw several doctors here in Texarkana and tried several different treatments. When that failed, she started seeing an ENT doctor in Little Rock. Still, things weren’t getting any better.

In fact, things were getting worse, much worse. “The pulsing noise in my ear was louder than ever. I couldn’t do anything without hearing it. I couldn’t sleep at night without turning the TV up to drown out some of the noise. Even then, I could still hear it. Imagine hearing a noise in your ear non-stop, all day, all night, 24/7,” Skye says. “My symptoms progressively got worse, and I started having blurry vision.

My mom and my husband started to notice that my body was swelling,

and I was gaining weight even though we could not figure out what was causing this. I could no longer wear any of my rings because my fingers were so swollen. I remember going to my mom’s house and just crying telling her that I didn’t know what else to do.”

It was then that Gary contacted his cousin who is a nurse in Dallas to ask for a recommendation for ENT doctors there. They went to the appointment in Dallas and started talking to the doctor about Skye’s symptoms. In less than an hour, he was able to give her a diagnosis.

He told Skye that if she had asked him just a few years earlier, he wouldn’t have been able to tell her but he was starting to see more and more of her condition. “He then said it was 1 out of 2 things: a brain tumor or intracranial hypertension. He said we would have to run more tests to be sure,” Skye says. “When my mom heard this, she said we weren’t leaving Dallas until we found out exactly what it was. We prayed that I would be able to get some help and answers.”

During the spinal tap, the doctor told Skye that she had high spinal fluid pressure. He also informed them that he was going to take some of the fluid out, which would only briefly help her symptoms. “Once all the testing was complete, I got a call from the doctor stating that it was intracranial hypertension and that I would need to see an neuroophthalmologist at UT Southwestern They decided to stay in Dallas until for further treatment. The doctor Skye could have the tests run even also recommended that we stop though they were not prepared. trying to get pregnant,” Skye says.

Because they had come up for a “He told me a pregnancy would only day appointment, they did not even add more fluid on my body and that have clothes with them. However, he couldn’t recommend it at the Gary’s cousin offered to let them time. He told us my vision was the stay with her, and they went out and main concern because intracranial bought clothes at local stores. Soon hypertension could cause vision after, Skye had several tests done in loss.”

Dallas to confirm the diagnosis. She had a hearing exam and several Eager to confirm the diagnosis, vision exams. They found that Skye the couple met with a neurohad swollen optic nerves which ophthalmologist in Dallas who was causing her blurry vision. Skye agreed with the findings. The also had a spinal tap and an MRI. ophthalmologist told Skye that she ALT-Mag.com | February 2019 013

needed to continue to take the medication and that she also would need to start trying to lose weight to help with her symptoms.

Skye also hoped for a second opinion on getting pregnant and starting a family as the couple was eager to begin this next step of their lives together.

“I asked what would happen if I got pregnant. She told me I would probably need spinal taps throughout the pregnancy to help with my vision and my other symptoms,” Skye says. “I would also have to keep taking the meds. The doctor explained that intracranial hypertension could cause blindness and vision loss. It took us a year before I was able to get the condition under control.

They still do not know what causes intracranial hypertension.”

Once Skye’s symptoms were minimalized, they started trying again to start a family. They tried for two years before seeking fertility treatments from a doctor in Dallas. With treatments, Skye was able to get pregnant; however, she miscarried soon after. “I went through a lot of emotions throughout my treatments,” Skye says. “When I found out I was pregnant, I was excited! I wanted to share the news with everyone but decided it was best just to tell my husband, my mom, and my sisters. When I had my first miscarriage, I was down but I was hopeful. I felt like I was on the right track because I did get pregnant.”

Gary and Skye continued with fertility treatments and pregnant a second time, but 014 ALT Magazine | February 2019

always His plan. We wanted to start a family in 2014, but that was not God’s plan for us at the time, and not all couples end up getting pregnant, even with treatment.”

As the process continued, Gary began to feel helpless. He wanted to support Skye, and hated to see her in pain. “However, I had to stop and realize that the situation was indeed out of my hands. It was in

Skye soon miscarried again.

“After my second miscarriage, I was devastated and started to wonder if I should continue with the treatments,” Skye says. “I underestimated the effect that treatments would have on me. I didn’t realize the emotional and the financial impact it would have on us both. Each time I started a treatment, I tried to go in with the thought of ‘This is it! It’s going to happen.’ So of course, it was very upsetting when it failed. Each time I would pray and ask God to bless us with children.”

the hands of God, and I needed to trust in His plan,” Gary says. “I knew that the most important thing I could do was to be strong emotionally and to support and encourage Skye.”

Because of her own struggles with infertility, Skye is able to relate to so many other woman who carry the weight of this issue. Her advice to others includes keeping faith in God and finding a support system. “I would tell other people that are going through treatments to remember that God is in control of the situation,” Skye says. “God has a plan for us. Our plan is not

At this same time, Gary found out that his mom was facing battles of her own. In the summer of 2016, Gary was informed by his mother that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer. She was able to successfully fight that battle only to be informed in the summer of 2017 that she was diagnosed with lung cancer. She was able to fight and defeat lung cancer as well.

“One evening, I stopped and had a moment to myself and reflect on all the events of the past couple of years. After much reflection, I realized God was still at work in our lives, even if I did not recognize it at times or understand it,” Gary says.

“I believe all these events helped build my character; which ultimately helped me be a better husband and prepared me for fatherhood. As I watched my mom go through her battles, her trust and faith in God never wavered, another lesson that I learned throughout this period.”

After a lot of prayer, Skye and Gary decided to try another round of fertility treatments. This would be their eighth round of treatments, and Skye reached out to her supporters for prayers. Her mom and two older sisters, Lea and Thelma, were her prayer warriors; they came and prayed over her before going in. ‘I remember calling my mom and her saying, ‘This is it,’” Skye says. “When we were told we were pregnant with Samuel, we were elated and so excited!

I just knew this time would be different. We decided that just like the other pregnancies, we wouldn’t tell anyone. We waited until I was released back to my doctor here in Texarkana.”

Because of her intracranial hypertension diagnosis, Skye had to continue to see the doctor at UT Southwestern while pregnant. They ran visual exams and monitored her weight during her term to make sure her symptoms did not return. Skye was also diagnosed with gestational diabetes, and was hospitalized with a kidney infection during pregnancy.

When Skye did go into labor, it was not an easy one. She labored for 14 hours and then was told she had to have a caesarean section. It was a difficult delivery and Samuel spent

four days in the NICU hospital. Skye also missed being a bridesmaid in her sister’s wedding because she delivered on November 27th and her sister’s wedding was December 1st. However, after seven years of marriage, eight fertility treatments, and fourteen hours of labor, Gary and Skye were able to welcome the baby they had prayed so hard for into their lives. “Samuel Khoi Garry Do is named after Gary and my dad; the late Garry Metcalf. Khoi is a Vietnamese name and is Gary’s first name,” Skye says. “Samuel is the second grandchild and only grandson on my side and the first grandchild on Gary’s side. We named him Samuel because like Hannah in the Bible, we prayed and asked God to bless us with a child.”

Once they brought Samuel home, the couple was introduced to a brand new challenge; parenting.

Through it all, Skye was so impressed with Gary’s patience and the care he showed her while she was recovering from her caesarean section. “Samuel’s birth has made me realize being a dad means setting the right example for him in all aspects of life. My attitude, the tone of my voice I use in speaking to others, my work ethic, and the way I treat people are just a few ways I will influence him,” Gary says. “ It also reminded me in what I saw in my own father; one day he will follow my example and not my advice.”

watch through half sleepy eyes as she awakes at intervals through the night with a spring in her step to care for Samuel. She holds him for hours, smiling and laughing, caressing him, with a love that is overflowing and endlessly energizes us. Yes, she gets tired, but she places Samuel’s needs far above her own.”

For the first time, Gary and Skye are having to intentionally schedule dates and times to talk, but they know that even if they are busy and tired, they want to continue to build on their strong bond with each other. “I believe our relationship must be strong so that we can parent Samuel together. Now that we are parents, we spend a lot of our time taking care of Samuel. Our biggest challenge is finding time just for the two of us,” Skye says. “But, we are blessed to be able to have such an amazing family that will watch after Samuel while we spend time together.”

In the future, Skye’s plans include trying to be the best mother and wife she can be. She hopes to raise Samuel in the kind of loving,

In turn, Gary has enjoyed watching Skye become the mother she always dreamed of being. “When I became a father, I really fell head over heels with Samuel, but also began to appreciate Skye in an entirely new light,” Gary says. “As I observe her selfless way of caring for him, I see that Samuel has been teaching us what love means. I ALT-Mag.com | February 2019 015

develop a relationship with God so that he will be prepared when he faces struggles and difficult situations.”

present themselves in our lives. How we handle those problems will either defeat us or develop us, depending on how we respond to them. I hope by sharing our story and by God presenting these problems to us, it For Gary, the future could be used as encouragement for is an opportunity to others who could be going through continue to spend time similar situations in their lives.” with his wife and son and make memories with them. He is grateful for God’s God-fearing homes her and Gary work in their lives and cannot wait grew up in. “At our wedding, we to see what comes next. Through recited 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. Gary and I want to continue to grow in our it all, he will continue to pray and ask for guidance for their future. love for each other. Gary’s parents He knows that ultimately the next are still married, and my parents stayed married until my Dad passed chapters are in God’s hands. “I just hope that Samuel continues in 2011. Gary and I want to be able to grow and be healthy, and I look to set the same example for our forward to making many memories son Samuel,” Skye says. “We want Samuel to be raised in a loving and with Samuel and Skye,” Gary says.

“There will always be problems that nurturing home. I want Samuel to

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by: Anne Granado Starting your own business is a risk, but for Dr. Randy Murray, it was a risk worth taking. In 1989, when he signed a rudimentary contract in Randy’s BBQ on Richmond Road for his business site, he had big dreams for the type of veterinary clinic he would run. He wanted to combine the art of veterinary medicine that he learned from years working under Dr. Wendell Wisdom, “Doc,” with the science of new technology to create a place where his clients and their pets would feel cared for and welcome. Now, as the clinic approaches its thirtieth anniversary, Dr. Murray reflects on the road that led to his legacy. “For me, the biggest indicator of our success is our core group of clients that have been with us from the beginning,” Dr. Murray says. “We’ve seen many of our clients’ fifth and sixth pet from start to finish, and when you do that, you get pretty tight with people. We want to be their vet from puppy shots to the grave. It’s been very special for us to see adults with their kids, and then those kids who grow up and have pets of their own. We have a great deal of affection for the people who have supported us over the years.”

put cattle on the place, and I became my dad’s ‘gate man’ quickly.

Almost everything else then played second fiddle to the farm. Working the cattle with Dr. Wisdom stimulated my interests even further, and eventually, working for him some at Wisdom Animal Clinic sealed the deal,” Dr. Murray says. “By the time I was in the eighth grade I knew exactly what I wanted to do, and although my focus eventually shifted from large animal medicine to small animal, I never had any doubts what my path was.”

Dr. Randy Murray grew up with a love for animals.

As a child, he was constantly bringing home stray animals. “We had multiple other pets and I was usually the one that brought them home. My brothers and sister liked dogs but they weren’t as prone to bring home wanderers as I was,” Dr. Murray says.

“My dad never much bonded with anything but a horse!”

One of Dr. Murray’s greatest pieces of advice for young graduates who dream of owning their own business is to take time to learn from someone first. He worked for Dr. Wisdom for four years before opening his own clinic, and in that time, he learned more about the art of practicing medicine. “When you graduate school, you are kind of worthless until you get out into the real world and really begin to learn,” Dr. Murray says. “Students in the program were told from the beginning of the curriculum that there are the arts and the sciences of vet medicine, and in reality, when you graduate, you know the sciences pretty well, but you don’t know jack about the arts. I say arts to describe

From a young age, Dr. Murray was introduced to Dr. Wendell Wisdom. The families were both close, and when he was eleven years old, his dad and Dr. Wisdom bought a 400 acre place in Red Lick. “They 018 ALT Magazine | February 2019

When Dr. Murray graduated veterinary school from Texas A&M University, he never had any intentions of doing anything other than working for Dr. Wisdom. It was something the two had decided, and Dr. Murray never interviewed with anyone else. “I cannot imagine a better man to work for fresh out of college than he was,” Dr. Murray says. “I was bold and headstrong.

He allowed me to fail enough to learn, and yet, he mentored me in such a manner that stimulated my desire to practice excellence in all I did. Perhaps he did too good a job?”

the process between the patient and the client and getting all the information you can get out of both using all your senses. Everyone has their own way of practicing medicine, and I found that it was best to work for someone for several years to learn the things you like and that you don’t like.”

Dr. Wisdom’s business centered around wanting to provide an equitable price for the high quality of medicine they wanted to practice. To find this balance, they had to see a lot of patients a day. “Dr. Wisdom was respected by his clients and other doctors in the practice. You gotta think, this guy was good. He worked with very little technology, and there was a lot less available in those days than there is now. He used all of his senses to accomplish his purpose,” Dr. Murray says. “He was a great model of the arts of veterinary science, and he had a great grasp of veterinary medicine.”

The close relationship between the two men made it hard for Dr. Murray to think about starting his own business, but Dr. Murray saw a lot of potential for new veterinary technology; however, technology was new in the field and had yet to prove itself as a worthwhile investment. Dr. Wisdom wanted to see in advance if the innovative technology was going to pay for itself, a pattern that Dr. Murray embraced as well later in his practice. “‘Doc’ could practice veterinary medicine with two syringes, one scalpel blade and a role of white tape and do great. He began his business in a time where veterinarians had to work with far less from a technology standpoint and for a much smaller wage. Becoming a great veterinarian, I believe, was far more difficult then, and he still did it,” Dr. Murray says. “In fact, one of the things he told me as I grew concerned about getting into veterinary school long before my first application was even turned in, was not to worry about predictions of there being too many veterinarians and the demand decreasing for graduates because ‘There will always be a demand for a good one.’ This is still absolutely true!”

In the end, what propelled Dr. Murray to begin his own clinic was his desire to integrate new technology into the practice. “As much as I love Wendell, I just didn’t want to have the head buttings we would have had in order for me to change some of the ways we practiced, and honestly, why should he have changed? He had unbelievable success,” Dr. Murray says. “I started trying to test the waters and push for new things, and I saw how difficult it would be.”

However, the decision to leave Dr. Wisdom came as a shock to everyone, and Dr. Murray had to trust his

own instincts in spite of the lack of support at first. The news was especially jarring to Dr. Murray’s parents.

Dr. Murray’s father and Dr. Wisdom were partners on the farm and good friends for many years, and Dr. Murray’s mom and Mrs. Wisdom were and still are closest of friends. “I will never forget sitting down with my dad and saying, ‘I found some land, and I think I want to buy it and start my own clinic.’ My dad was flabbergasted. In a very irritable and brusque manner, he told me it was dumbest thing he had ever heard,” Dr. Murray says. “But, as I began to explain why I felt like I needed to make this move, he argued a little bit less and a little bit less. Eventually, he said, ‘Son, I don’t like it. Our families are connected, and I think you have a good thing going where you are, but I’ve listened to your reasons and if you really want to do this, I will give you my blessing.’ That was all I needed to go all in.”

Dr. Murray officially left Dr. Wisdom’s clinic in March of 1989, and the two remain friends. “I love the man, and I consider him to still be the greatest influence on anything we have accomplished professionally,” Dr. Murray says.

Several of Dr. Murray’s good friends helped him build a 24’ X 60’ pier and beam structure on the present site and Westridge Animal Hospital opened May 1,1989.

“We put in many 24-hour days to get that building built between when I left Wisdom and the day the doors opened,” Dr. Murray says. “I’d say our biggest challenges were managing the growth. It was just me and Beth Grimes at the beginning, and we burned the candle at both ends. Eventually, we added a kennel helper after, and Jim Duffer from New Boston built me a kennel about a year in. My wife, Alecia, came to work as our office manager in 1992, and things just exploded from there on.”

Dr. Murray and Alecia were introduced by Alecia’s sister, Debbie. At the time, Debbie was married to Tony Arnold, and Dr. Murray had grown up knowing Tony and Greg very well. One weekend, Tony and Debbie were out of town and left their little Lhaso Apso with Alecia to take care of. “Alecia brought the dog in for some bogus reason just to get to meet me, and when Tony and Debbie got back to town, they had us both over to eat. I was toast,” Dr. Murray says. “We were married September 6, 1986.”

ALT-Mag.com | February 2019 019

Dr. Murray says that Alecia knew what she was in for from the very beginning. On the night of their first real date, Dr. Murray got an emergency call right as he picked Alecia up. He was still doing a little large animal work on the side, and Alecia ended up controlling the truck lights that night while he did a caesarean section on a Hereford cow down off Schillings.

The two put off having children while they got the clinic up and running. Dr. Murray remembers telling people who asked about children that they already had one: the clinic. “I literally lived up there all that time, and so did Alecia after she became the Office Manager. Starting a business is difficult; I think everyone would know that.

Starting a business and working with your spouse can make it even more of a task but we seemed to do well,” Dr. Murray says.

When Alecia became pregnant with their first child, Cullen, in 1993, she left the clinic to raise their family.

Three years later, Alecia gave birth to their daughter, Meredith. Currently, Cullen is 25 and lives in Frisco with his wife, Mandy.

Meredith is 22 and lives in Fort Worth. Both children continued the Aggie tradition set by their father and attended Texas A&M University. “I am Aggie to my core and so is my family!

Both our kids, both my brother’s and my older brother’s kids all are Aggies. My younger brother’s son will graduate next fall from there also,” Dr. Murray says. “It is a virus and you don’t ever get rid of it, and we’re glad!”

us at one time or another. Our present staff mostly has been with us for five to eight years plus, with several much longer than that. They are all family.”

In the beginning years of the hospital, Dr. Murray sought to make his vision for the practice come to life and that meant working long hours, making sacrifices, and overcoming obstacles. He envisioned a cuttingedge practice with brand new technology in the field.

“What I ended up finding out very quickly was that ‘having’ all that stuff was not quite as glorious as ‘wanting’ it. A bill for each item seemed to show up regularly,” Dr. Murray says. “I put it to good use, and I believe we practiced excellent medicine from the very outset, but balancing the books with the exam room, operating room, reception, and kennel was a whole new ballgame. I wanted to have solid control of my future, and next thing you know, I had it; oh how I had it.”

In 1996, the clinic was thriving, but Dr. Murray was working such long hours that it seemed like he lived there. Though he had two young kids and Alecia at home, the clinic had precedence over everything else.

“I had come to the conclusion that availability was the greatest key to success. We were growing exceptionally fast and things were really popping and I used ‘the clinic’ as an excuse to avoid anything anytime it pleased me,” Dr. Murray says. “I had become so focused on what I did and the identity I had developed there that I almost destroyed my family. I’m type A and have a little OCD Besides Alecia, the other staff member who really in addition. The business grew more than I was really helped Dr. Murray get the clinic up and running was capable of managing, and by late 1996, I had reached a Beth Grimes. Beth worked at the Pleasant Grove office crisis. Fortunately, God’s grace is greater, and my wife when Dr. Murray was with Dr. Wisdom. She eventually is patient and forgiving. Alecia and I were both won to came to work with Dr. Murray when he opened. “Beth Christ on the same night in January of 1997, and our had a wealth of experience already and was so integral lives have never been the same. We learned what it is to our early success. She pretty much had to be the to take on the greatest partner in business and life that receptionist, exam tech, surgery tech, ward tech and you can ever take on when we accepted Christ as our secretary for the first couple years,” Dr. Murray says.

Saviour. Pretty simple actually, I would have eventually “We have had so many great staff members over the years. Our staff typically has been recruited from clients self destructed without Him. My wife had some very and acquaintances and even one, Taylor Lewis-Sok, that dear friends throughout that tumultuous time, and I still thank God for them every time I think of them.” we kind of raised at the clinic. So many of the kids that volunteered when they were young have worked with 020 ALT Magazine | February 2019

For Alecia, the fact that they were both saved on the same night, 20 miles apart, shows the power of God in their lives. “There are no mistakes with God,” Alecia says. “My greatest desire is that Randy can practice as long as he wishes. With both our kids living out of town there is certainly some thought of what happens when grandkids start hitting the ground, but we worked hard and sacrificed a great deal over the years to build the practice. I have no regrets, but I certainly want to see that continue and the hospital continue to deliver the same quality of care that it always has. Our clients are family.”

Now, Dr. Murray watches constantly for an opportunity for God to use him in the exam room, in contact with a client, or in the inevitable issues that arise with staff, and he has found a balance between home and business. While doing what he loves, Dr. Murray hopes to make a difference in the lives he comes in contact with, both human and animal.

“Honestly, I like everything about my job, even the worst parts. That’s usually the hardest thing for new employees to get used to, that I get to work most every day excited about what may happen today,” Dr. Murray says. “We have opportunity to use most everything that we have been taught through the years almost every single day, and there is always more new information coming out than you can even digest. The clients are great, and they believe us when we say ‘your pet is family.’ It’s a great time to be a veterinarian!”

For Dr. Murray, the greatest accomplishment is building a positive reputation in the community with life-long clientele. “We aren’t perfect by any stretch, but I believe being able to associate with two other doctors like Dr. Dean Burns and Dr. Lisa Morgan, who have the same passion for our field and the same love for people and their pet families, is simply the best!” Dr. Murray says. “I never really have to wonder what their opinions are

about practice and about life. Number one, they aren’t bashful; they’ll tell me. Number two, they have the same fundamental belief system as I do. We have a calling on our lives to do what we do. Our interactions with people about their pets opens doors for us to become a listening ear in such a variety of ways, and we have to be available to that end whenever opportunity comes. I’ll say this, we don’t just doctor dogs and cats, we tend to families.”

This motto and brand that Dr. Murray, his associates and his staff have built over the years came from his very early beginnings. Dr. Murray’s friend, Terry Lewis, ran a local advertising business, and Dr. Murray approached him about developing a logo for the new clinic. The logo that Terry designed is the one they still have today. Terry is also the one that coined our motto, “where your pet is family.” “Lewis came into the clinic with their family dog and cat a few times, and when we were talking on the phone about logos and mottos, he came up with that one immediately. He said that from the minute he walked in, he felt like his pet was family,” Dr. Murray says. “We love that many of our clients are ones we have worked with through multiple generations of pets. We have seen families grow up, and then their kids bring in their pets.”

Looking to the future, Dr. Murray is still setting goals for the future. He hopes that the practice outgrows their current facility in two years or less. This may easily be achieved since they outgrew and had to expand only two years ago. Dr. Murray would also like to add another doctor, but the current space will not allow for a fourth one. “We do about five docs worth of work presently, but ask any of us and I think you’ll hear ‘We like it that way!’ Dr. Murray says. “I am a technology freak, and I hope to always keep us on the cutting edge, taking advantage of new technologies that help us provide the best of care for our pets at the most economical prices.

That’s always been the plan: we want our clients’ friends and families to refer their friends and families to our practice because they have had a great experience.

ALT-Mag.com | February 2019 021

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Through the vision of Gail and Ed Eichler, The ArkLaTex 100 Club, Inc. was founded in 2016 and initially funded by The Clay Eichler Memorial Fund with the sole purpose of benefitting our local police and firefighters in Bowie and Miller Counties. Now a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the ArkLaTex 100 Club is charged with raising funds to carry on this incredible selfless purpose as a resource for those who risk their lives every day to serve and protect the citizens.

The ArkLaTex 100 Club, Inc. is closely patterned after The 100 Club of Houston.

There’s not another organization in our region that provides these services to our area’s police, firefighters and their families. The Houston 100 Club started in 1953 when five men came together in Houston, Texas, to raise money to help dependents of Houston Police Officers who were killed in the line of duty.

They encouraged 100 people to donate $100 with the proceeds going to help the families of the fallen officers. The organization has grown to over 30,000 members in the Houston area and in 2001 they expanded their benefits to provide for dependents of firefighters lost in the line of duty.

024 ALT Magazine | February 2019

The Ark-La-Tex 100 Club exists to support the men and women who daily risk their lives serving and protecting us, and responding to all manner of emergencies in Bowie and Miller counties. They raise funds with a primary purpose of being ready to offer immediate financial support to the family of an officer or first responder lost in the line of duty. Beyond this readiness, they award funding to local agencies for unbudgeted, lifesaving equipment and safety training. They want to give our police, firefighters and first responders the equipment that will help them get home safe at the end of each shift.

One instance where the organization has assisted occurred December 2016. “Officer Lisa Mauldin, 47, of Genoa, Arkansas, was killed Sunday, December 18, 2016, when she and another officer were attacked by an inmate inside the Miller County Detention Center’s kitchen,” recounts organization President, Kelley Crisp. “An inmate attacked both officers, seriously injuring them. Officer Mauldin was transported to Wadley Regional Medical Center where she succumbed to her injuries.” The other officer was transported to the same hospital where she was admitted

Kelley Crisp, Texarkana, Texas Police Officer Tabitha Smith, Gail Eichler, and Andrew Fuller.

Gail Eichler giving grant money to Chief Fletcher and Texarkana, Arkansas Fire Department

Investigator Michael Sutton, Nash Police Department, Investigator Aaron Ragland, Bowie County District Attorney's Office, Kelley Crisp and Captain Robby McCarver, Bowie County Sherriff's Department

as well. Following Officer Mauldin’s death, a check for $15,000 was given immediately to her husband, Travis Mauldin.

for anyone under the age of 18. Food and beverages will be sold by the Hooks Volunteer Fire Department.

That’s not the only thing the organization raises money for. They have helped with equipment expenses for departments throughout the Ark-La-Tex. One particular expenditure equipped a Bowie County deputy with the necessary equipment and training to to carry a K-9. With over $280,000 distributed to area agencies, since 2016, they have been hard at work.

The competition will start at 9:00 a.m. This year, raffle tickets are available for purchase at a cost of $100 each for a chance to win an ATV with a retail value of $10,000. Only 500 tickets were printed, and the drawing will take place on the day of the tournament and they do not need to be present to win.

On March 2, 2019, the ArkLaTex 100 is having a fundraiser – the 2nd Annual Pull for Heroes, a sporting clay tournament to be held at Rocky Creek Outdoors, 4001 South State Line Road, Texarkana, Arkansas 71854. Entry fee is $100 per shooter. Each shooter must fill out an individual form and sign a waiver. Parent or guardian must sign

They are targeting a wide audience, particularly those willing to support our local police and fire departments. Shooting games and activities will allow guests at any experience level a day of fun.

ALT-Mag.com | February 2019 025

Board Members

Kelley Crisp, President John Morel, Vice President James Henry Russell, Treasurer

Kelley Crisp and John Morel at our very first 100 club meeting.

Last year's fundraiser Pull for Heroes.

That's Jason Neely shooting. Chris Richards and Dr. Chris Alkire are watching. Captain Robby McCarver the volunteer keeping score and that's Debbie Alkire in the purple in the little car watching.

Gail Eichler Danny Gray Shelby Brown Kendrick Smith Andrew Fuller Greg Reed

his is at last year's Pull for Heroes fundraising event.

Would you like to help?

There are several ways to support this event:

1. Be a sponsor. Sponsorship benefits include ArkLaTex 100 Club memberships, pre-event marketing, on-site presence during the event, complimentary tournament entries and VIP access.

2. Register to participate or shoot, individually or as a team 3. Eat lunch-Hooks VFD will be cooking and selling with all profits going back to support their department.

4. Volunteer 5. Come out and watch For more information, check out their Facebook page or website - https://thearklatex100club. org/ pull-for-heroes.

If you wish to help, you may purchase a membership or make a contributions at www. theArkLaTex100Club.org, or, mail them to The ArkLaTex 100 Club, 2801 Richmond Road, Texarkana, Texas 75503.

026 ALT Magazine | February 2019

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212 E Broad St. • Texarkana, AR 71854 • (870)-773-4444 ALT-Mag.com | February 2019 029

Transforming Hardships into Blessings Ashley Elizabeth Stinnett Carlow grew up in this area. As a child, she dreamed of one day making a difference in people’s lives, so she chose to become a teacher. After years of teaching, she definitely did just that. It is amazing how much of a difference teachers can make in the lives of the children they help.

One day, a couple of years ago, she decided to visit Traditions with Shelby, my daughter. They just wanted to look at everything. She knew the business was for sale, but she had never dreamed about owning a bridal store. Well, six weeks later, that’s exactly what happened. She was in love with all of the romance, emotion and happiness that came with helping others get ready for weddings, proms, or special events. It was a match made in heaven!

Recently, after much prayer and thought, Ashley and Brad made the decision to change the name to something very close to their hearts.

Gracyn Elizabeth is the stillborn daughter that they have never forgotten. Gracyn Elizabeth Bride is in her honor and the name change is 030 ALT Magazine | February 2019

the most memorable and amazing thing they have done since purchasing the business. Not only does the name mean so much to the two of them, but a portion of the proceeds from sales of the private label dresses they have designed will be donated to make and donate gowns to those who lose children at birth. It is a way to remember a special child and give back to the community.

Ashley and husband Brad, have four children: their son, Taylor and daughter in law, Taylor, daughter and son-in-law, Shelby and Caleb Stephens, son, Triston (age 20 and a senior at Texas A&M, College Station), and son, Briley (14 and an 8th grader at Maud ISD).

Now, Ashley’s days are full of hope and excitement – but there is no normal day! Each day involves getting Briley to school and then heading to Gracyn Elizabeth Bride. “I love meeting people so I enjoy helping new and returning customers that come in the shop,” Ashley explains. “I also love preparing new inventory for the shop as it comes in.” Although

the “behind the scenes“ business stuff is not her favorite thing to do, she tackles it each day as well. Since Briley plays sports, the day usually ends up in a basketball gym or workout gym before calling it a day.

Her life has revolved around advice that she was given from her dad, Robert Stinnett. “My dad told me that you should love your job and enjoy getting up and going to that job each day, and when that stops, it is then time to find something else to do each day,” Ashley shares. “I love getting up and going to Gracyn Elizabeth Bride each day!” She remembers that advice when the struggles appear. Her greatest struggle was with the loss of her daughter, Gracyn and the passing of her father from a brain tumor. Ashley says, “It’s very hard not to question and ask WHY. But, I know that God has the master plan in our lives and we must trust that plan.”

Along with the struggles come the accomplishments and hers are her children!

She is very proud of each one of them and has enjoyed watching them grow into the young adults they are today. As for business, her greatest accomplishment has been where they are today with Gracyn Elizabeth Bride. She is proud to help other families who suffer from early infant loss through the mission of the bridal shop.

Ashley’s free time (if there is any such thing) is spent watching a lot of basketball! Briley travels playing AAU basketball with TJ Ford. She also loves spending time with her two doggies, Tucker and Rylie.

Fall in

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1. Goal for 2019: To continue to build a business that reaches that 10 year accomplishment.

2. My New Year’s Resolution is to read the entire Bible in one year.

3. Favorite food is most definitely Mexican!

I could eat it everyday and never get tired of it!

4. I honestly hardly ever watch TV. I did get caught up on This Is Us and cried almost every episode!

5. My favorite past time is honestly spending time with family and just relaxing.

6. I care about others and I strive for customers to see that Gracyn Elizabeth Bride also cares and gives customers an experience that is loving.

7. Advice: treat others the way you would want to be treated. In my mind, that should always be with kindness and a loving heart.

8. Life motto: I have to say that I have taken on two “sayings” that my dad use to say and use them in my life. One is “it is what it is” and the other is “this too shall pass”. Make the most out of everyday because it will pass. And don’t sweat about the things that you have no control over.

“Train yourself to let go of everything you fear to lose.”

(903) 832-5438 600 North Kings Hwy Wake Village, TX 75501 ALT-Mag.com | February 2019 031

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Local Weddings 034 ALT Magazine | February 2019

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036 ALT Magazine | February 2019

Christopher October and Cassidy Birdwell 6,2018

Our Love Story...

We met in the Sixth grade and we started dating our junior year in high school six year laters, Chris proposed to Cassidy on the same land the great venue Tree Haven was being built on!

Parents of the Bride: Tommy and Laura Shaw Parents of the Groom: Barry and Leslie Birdwell Maid of Honor: Ashley Shaw Bridesmaids: Brooke McIntosh, Kaydee Waren, Lauren Berry, Breanna Chitwood, and Kristen Cronmeyer Best Man: Colby Curry Groomsmen: Jesse Dunson, Cole Anders, Kanon Walker, Luke Matthews, and Wil Rowan Usher: John Hearn & Taylor Winn Flower Girls: Erin Shaw and Adalee Handcock Ring Bearers: Braiden Lopez and Kayson Shaw Pastor/Officiant: Tommie Shaw Flowers: Hobby Lobby Hair: Katelyn Adams and Laura Shaw Make-up: Hailey Cherry DJ: Charlie Downs Entertainment Venue: Tree Haven Wedding Coordinator: Vallery Sears Cake: Kristie Conner Caterer: Dennis Pickering Photographer/ Videographer: The Tucks Wedding Dress: Her’s Bridal Wedding Rings: Micah’s Jewelers Tuxedos: Squires

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Ivan and Elvia Bustamante September 1, 2018

Our Love Story...

We met working at Fuzzy’s Taco Shop our senior year of high school. After two years of friendship and throwing flirtatious hints at each other, we decided to enter the “talking phase”. On March 23, 2013, Ivan came to my house with a rose and a question to be his girlfriend. I said yes without realizing the adventure we were starting. Our love story has always been centered around making memories, enjoying life, and experiencing new adventures with each other. On Christmas morning of 2016 I woke up to a trail of rose petals leading to the living room where my family was waiting. On the table there were rose petals and candles in the shape of a heart and ring box in the middle. Ivan got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. It was the best Christmas surprise I could have ever wished for.

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Parents of the Bride: Reymundo and Maria Aguilar Parents of the Groom: Alfonso and Adela Bustamante Maid of Honor: Marisol Aguilar and Nadia Moore Bridesmaids: Janelly Solis, Laura Aguilar, Sandy Rosas, and Karen Rosas Best Man: Alfonso Bustamante Groomsmen: German Aguilar, Fermin Bustamante, Martin Aguilar, Jose Moya, and Erick Ramirez Flower Girls: Allyson Aguilar Pastor/Officiant: Father Stephen

Flowers: Ruths Flowers and Anali’s Bridal Hair: Taylor Barr at The Beauty Barr Make-up: Carmen Aguilar Band: Conjunto Renazer de San Luis Venue: Four States Fair & Rodeo Cake: Sweet Rose Bakery, Ines Pasteles Sweets Table: Sweet Arts Cakery Caterer: Don Tomas Barbacoa Photographer: Sam Guzman Photography Videographer: Isela Productions Wedding Dress: Hers Bridal Tuxedos: Dillards

What made it special?

One of the things that made our wedding so special was having over 800 guests come together and watch us exchange vows and celebrate our love for each other. The Four States Rodeo arena was the perfect place to accommodate everybody and allowed us to incorporate features that you would see in a traditional wedding in Mexico.

Another special moment was riding in on horse and carriage that gave it a fairytale touch.

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Hayden and Natalie Halbert June 2, 2018

040 ALT Magazine | February 2019

Our Love Story...

Hayden and I first meet in 2010 at our high school. I invited him to a Halloween party that my sister and I were hosting at our grandparents house. He originally planned to not attend since he didn’t know anyone since he was new to the school but my friend Kevin made sure he showed up. We hit it off at the party, so after the party we started texting and ended up in a relationship. We dated throughout all of high school, graduating in 2013 and then throughout our college careers. After nearly eight years of dating, he planned a surprise dinner at my grandparents, where he then proposed in front of my family.

We had talked about marriage before and knew of where we would want the wedding to be held.

We were lucky enough to get to be the first wedding to ever be held at the Hope Municipal Airport. I grew up around planes, with my dad being in the aviation field, so using the hangar as our venue was very special to me.

Hayden’s grandmother is a florist so each of the arrangements, table settings, and bouquets were specially made. My grandmother, who used to cater weddings set the bar pretty high for my catering and volunteered, along with the help of her close friends to cater the wedding for us. My great uncle, who has been our preacher since I was a baby was the officiant for the ceremony.

With the wedding getting to be at the airport we went with a travel theme. We used world globes, antique suitcases, and maps as decorations.

We used three planes outside the hangar as a back drop for the wedding ceremony and then we used a friend's planes inside the hangar which was used during the wedding reception. The planes that were inside the hangar were a 1940 Piper and a 1964 Cessna. As wedding favors we had little suitcases that we put mints and peanuts in. We also gave our guests aviator sunglasses. Our guests wore the sunglasses during our send off while throwing paper airplanes in place of traditional rice.

Parents of the Bride: Joe and Becky Hood Parents of the Groom: Tracey and Chris Reed and Bryan and Sheila Halbert Bridesmaid: Courtney Hood Bridesmaids: Emily Hood, Lexi Bright, and Sarah Naff Best Man: Devin Halbert Groomsmen: Landon Halbert, Bennett Black, and Chase Jones Flower Girls: Taelyn Lemons Ring Bearers: Aiden Jones Ushers: Baker Bright and Kobey Jones Pastor/Officiant: Charles Hawley Flowers:Vickie Gaines at Ruth's Flowers Hair and Make-up: Ashley Stout, Strands in Hope, AR Music: Sam’s Custom Sound from Magnolia, AR Venue: Hope Municipal Airport Cake: Karen Gilbert, Fulton, AR Caterer: Paula Raschke Rentals: Dots Rental Photographer: Heather Clements Photography and Keith Powell Photography Hope, AR Wedding Dress: Lowes Bridal, Brinkley AR Tuxedos: The Pickett Fence in Hope, AR Bridesmaids Dresses: Davids Bridal Special thanks to Mr. Mike Dugger for the use of the planes ALT-Mag.com | February 2019 041

Lindsay Burks and Jack Robbins “I’m stationed in Missouri with the Air Force and my buddy Brock recommended Constince at Micah’s Jewelers since I had started looking for an engagement ring. She made the process of buying and fitting a ring pretty easy since I was only in town visiting friends and family for a short amount of time. I definitely didn’t make it easy on them with what I was looking for and my time constraints, but everyone at Micah’s went above and beyond. The day ended up being cold and foggy here in Kansas City but the ring was perfect and she loved it! “ -Jack Robbins

Sarah Scharnberg and Peyton Stephens There’s only one jewelry store we would trust to design the ring of my dreams and that’s Micah’s Jewelers. Micah, Allison, and David are like family to me and I couldn’t imagine them not being a part of this momentous occasion in our lives. We know that lots of love was put into designing and building our rings and we will be forever grateful!

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Timeless.

Inspirational.

Photojournalistic.

Wedding Photography That Lasts A Lifetime.

PHOTOGRAPHY

101 Slaton Dr. Nash, TX 903.278.4444 debbiebrower.com ALT-Mag.com | February 2019 043

044 ALT Magazine | February 2019

December 21,2018

Blade and Betty Hesperus

Our Love Story...

We met online looking for friends and got along so well we decided to try dating. Our first date was under the stars in the country watching the Perseids meteor shower.

Parents of the Bride: Grant and Nancy Foreman Parents of the Groom: Michael and Vicki Vesperman Usher: Benjamin Foreman Flower Girls: Charlie Cox and Elsa Foreman Ring Bearers: Tripp Cox Pastor/Officiant: Chuck Freeman Flowers: Jana at Farmhouse Flowers Hair and Make-up: Ashley Alexander Venue: Family owned home for ceremony and Garrison Gardens for reception Ceremony Decorator: June Hatchet Cake: Julie’s Deli Caterer: Julie’s Deli Photographer: Debbie Brower Videographer: Eric’s Xtreme Video Wedding Dress: CocoMelody Wedding Rings: Wood Rings Tuxedos: Grooms Tuxedo by Men’s Warehouse, Tie from Suit Supply

What made it special?

One of our favorite things was having an all fa mily wedding at a fa mily owned house. It meant so much to us to have our fa mily all there to celebrate with us.

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Brett and Lea McDonald December 1, 2018

What made it special?

The Prayer Quilt was very special to us in our ceremony-The quilt was made by a longtime friend of the fa mily and fa mily members sent in scriptures that were written on the quilt. Our parents draped the quilt around us during the singing of the Lord’s Prayer which was sung by Julie Ferrell.

046 ALT Magazine | February 2019

Our Love Story...

In the fall of 2011 Brett’s mother (Kay Hill) made mention to Brett that she knew of a sweet young lady she had become acquainted with at church. Mrs. Hill encouraged Brett to come to church and meet this sweet young lady. Brett tells the story that when he first saw Lea at church, he thought she was married to her father because of where she was sitting in church; beside her daddy. After Brett realized that Lea was not married he continued to come to church; however he now had two good reasons for attending church there.

In October Brett’s sister (Kayla Hill) made a request on behalf of her brother for him to have permission to call Lea. Of course Lea agreed, and they began a wonderful friendship. During this season, Lea’s dad became ill, and passed away. Brett never lost sight of the girl he had prayed for, and he waited for Lea to deal with the death of her father.

It was in the Spring of 2012 that they began to officially date. Lea fell in love with Brett’s compassion, care, hard work, and endless support he gave her. Brett fell in love with Lea’s desire to help people, love for children, and the work she did in the church. Brett and Lea’s love for each other are built on qualities they both see in their parents. Brett says that he found a woman much like his mother, because of Lea’s devotion to church and giving heart. Lea says she found someone like her daddy, because of his acknowledgment of God being the head of their home and his work ethic to ensure that all the needs of their family will be met.

On February 24, 2018 Brett proposed to Lea at the Metcalf homestead.

Lea thought she was going to a birthday celebration, which turned into an engagement celebration. Brett did a great job keeping all of this a secret.

The week prior to the engagement, Brett asked Lea’s mother for her hand in marriage along with Lea’s Uncle Paul (brother to Lea’s mother). This was all kept in secret by Brett’s mother and Lea’s mother. They were the only people who knew Brett would propose on that rainy evening February 24, 2018.

Next best decision they both have made besides their confession of Jesus.

Parents of the Bride: Cordia and the Late Gary Lee Metcalf and Paul Person (Uncle and Escort of Bride) Parents of the Groom: Rev. Eddie Hill Sr and Kay Hill, Don and Stephanie McDonald Bridesmaids: Thelma Metcalf Forte, Skye Do, Kayla Hill Washington, Breayah Mcdonald, and Mia Forte Groomsmen: Don McDonald, Anthony Abner, Eddie Pete Hill II, Jonathan Stewart, and Brett McDonald II. Flower Girls and Ring Bearers: Kelli Perkins, Kendell Washington, Liberty Thompson, Loryn Nelson, and Landon Nelson Ushers: Garry Do, Tracy Forte, Michael Irving, Graylon Person, and Pete Hill III Pastor/Officiant: Rev. Eddie Hill Officiant, Rev. Andrew Hill (assisting) Rev. Brian McDonald (assisting)

Candle Lighters: Landon Shelly and Caleb Larkin Soloist: Julie Ferrell and Vickie Waller Violinist: Dr. Timothy Chung Pianist and Organist: Pamela Harris and Dr. Kenneth Harris Flowers: Beulah Brown, Gail Young Hair: Tomeka King-Tailored To You Make-up: Bobbi Brown Cosmetics Counter Artist (Texarkana Mall) DJ: Shelby Irving Venue: Lonoke Baptist Church (Ceremony) and Holiday Inn Texarkana Arkansas Convention Center (Reception) Wedding Coordinator: Kaye Person, Beulah Brown Cake: Ty’s Delicious Sweet Treats-Tyanna Warren, Arkadelphia, AR Caterer: Chartwells, Clifton Ames Rentals: Dots Rental Photographer: Debbie Brower Photography Wedding Dress: Lowes Bridal, Brinkley Arkansas (Morilee-Designer) Wedding Jewelry: Vera Wang (Wedding Rings) Tuxedos: Gracyn Elizabeth Bride ALT-Mag.com | February 2019 047

Alex and Ashley Waits November 3, 2018

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Our Love Story...

We met nine years ago at Outback steakhouse where we worked together at the time. Alex says the first time he saw me, I was working, and he came in to eat at one of his friend’s tables. He told his friend “I’m gonna marry that girl” and pointed at me. I didn’t know him at the time, but a few weeks later he got a job there and we hit it off just a few short days after he had started. I was always the quiet one while he wasn’t, but yet he had a little shyness to him. He didn’t say much to me but he made it very known that he had a thing for me.

Every time he passed me going in and out of the kitchen he would always smile at me and always made sure to get my attention! I can still hear his voice in my head from when he would be singing in the kitchen along with the radio!

Ahhh! I’m pretty sure that’s what stole my heart!! A few weeks went by and one of our mutual friends from work kept telling me to come over one night. She told me a bunch of people from work were coming over to hang out and play games. She was very persistent on me coming so I finally caved in and went over to her house and guess what? She totally set it up!

The only people there was her, her roommate, Alex, and one other person! They totally planned it out!

Needless to say, we sat and talked that whole night and stayed up till the sun came up just talking! We have been together ever since that night! These past nine years have flown by so fast! We now have two precious kids, a little girl named Ava and a little boy named Ayden! We truly are blessed! I’m so lucky to be married to the love of my life and my best friend! We look forward to the days ahead!

Parents of the Bride: Micki and Earl Rains and Franklin McCloy Jr. Parents of the Groom: Greg and Chris Waits and Marla and Truitt Hoover Maid of Honor: Jessica McCloy Bridesmaids: Lakynn Carlton, Maygen Hartwick, Daire Smith, Jessie Self, and Tara Cerar Best Man: Dillon Mills Groomsmen: Brandon McCloy, Kyle Griffin, Jake Ashby, Ty Lewis, and Paul Cerar Usher: Matthew Thomas Flower Girls: Ava Waits and Raleigh Walker Ring Bearer: Ayden Waits Pastor/Officiant: Matthew Butler Flowers: Jennifer Ogburn Hair and Make-up: Sydney Cross DJ: Edward Lang AKA DJ Sloppy Joe Venue: Tree Haven Wedding Coordinator: Tonya Crabtree Cake: Robin Hamnett’s Cakes Caterer: Outback Steakhouse Rentals: Dot’s Rentals Photographer: Kristy Lowery Wedding Dress: David’s Bridal Tuxedos: Monica’s

What made it special?

There are many things I can think of that made our day special, but I would have to say having our two babies be a part of our wedding was definitely one of our favs! We always said that we would wait until they were old enough to be our flower girl & ring bearer before we tied the knot, and that’s just what we did! It also meant alot that we were surrounded by all of our loved ones on such a special day of our lives!

Marcus and Dallas Wills November 10, 2018

Our Love Story...

Where do I even begin, when we met so many years ago? We have known each other for so long as mutual friends, like would speak if we happened to see each other but nothing came about until December 2011. I was a single mom working a second job for the holidays at Champs and he happened to come in right before New Year’s eve. He looked like he had seen a ghost when he saw me. He said he didn’t know I was still living in this town (or was that just a way to talk to me LOL, but it worked). We exchanged numbers that day and texted back and forth over that New Year’s weekend. Then, a few weeks later we decided to hang out and started spending a lot more time together. I fell in love with the way he was with my Daughter. (He became the daddy she deserved) Also, the way he can make an entire room laugh.

On her 5th birthday we brought our son into this world and when he was about nine months old we ended up going our separate ways. We took about a 2 year break until realizing we loved each other too much not to try again and be a family with our kids. There was a quote that read “our journey is long, not easy, but our destination will be beautiful. Don’t give up” The proposal, I really had no idea that it was coming!! I was literally still in my scrubs from work and in the kitchen cleaning (story of my life lol) when our daughter came in playing “Let’s Get Married.” I turned around and he was on one knee!! I said “omg stop being stupid, you play too much” and then he pulled a ring out and I said “oh this is for Real.” It was perfect, just the four of us and our daughter crying as much as I was.

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Parents of the Bride: Ronnie Garrett and Keith Lee Matron of Honor: Kim Simcox Maid of Honor: Jaylynn Lee Bridesmaids: Kacie Kramer, Jessie Nelson, Donna Lee, Tiffany Blue, Julie Northcutt, Krystle Means, Vicky Martinez and Amber Roach Best Man: Kamdyn Wills Groomsmen: Bernard Wills, Patrick Wills, TC Carson, Bernard Jefferson, Emmett Johnson, CD Cunningham, Jeremy Burkes, Claude Crews and Elvis Scott Flower Girls: Parker Nelson and Briley Honeycutt Pastor/Officiant: Earmon Anderson Flowers: Sam’s Hair: Logan Akins Make-up: Donna Lee Bartender: Justin Grissom Venue: Cedar Ridge Venue Cake: Yomika Johnson Caterer: Fuzzy’s Tacos Rentals: Dots Photographer: Debbie Brower Photography Wedding Invites: Shutterfly Ceremony Music: Rodney Thrower Wedding Dress: Gracyn Elizabeth Bride Tuxedos: Gracyn Elizabeth Bride

What made it special?

Watching our kids have the best time of their lives and seeing their parents get married was something so special, I think it’s safe to say they thought it was their day. Having our closest fa mily and friends there to celebrate our love was something we will cherish forever. It was the perfect day.

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Meagan Lucas and Thomas Shaddix

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We are so thankful to have had Micah’s Jewelers to help us with all of our jewelry needs! They have gone above and beyond with everything, even custom designing both my engagement ring and wedding band so that they were everything I’d ever dreamed of. Every time we have visited the entire staff has been so friendly and helpful. We couldn’t imagine going through this process without Micah’s Jewelers!

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STRINGER WEALTH MANAGEMENT RAYMOND JAMES FINANCIAL STRINGERWEALTHMANAGEMENT.NET

The Importance of Productivity Growth

by Scott J. Brown, Ph.D. Chief Economist, Raymond James Financial

Economists view the growth in labor productivity, or output per worker, as the single most important variable in an economy. It’s what lifts the standard of living, helps keep prices low, reduces government budget strains and drives corporate profits. Over the next decade, achieving faster productivity growth will be key as labor force growth slows. The outlook is encouraging, but uncertain. has slowed Productivity growth significantly over the past decade. Some may be quick to blame policies out of Washington. However, the slow-down in productivity growth has been observed worldwide (that is, it can’t be due to U.S. policies alone). Most economists believe that the slowdown reflects weaker capital spending following the Great Recession. Capital spending began to pick up in the middle of 2016 and has been further fueled by improvement in business optimism in 2017. A stronger global economy has helped. Most longterm economic models include stronger productivity growth assumptions over the next 10 years.

Seeking perspective

Productivity growth slowed from the 1970s to the early 1990s, and economists aren’t clear on exactly why. As with the more recent slowdown, there were some doubts about measurement. Nobel Laureate Robert So low once quipped that one could see the impact of computers everywhere except in the productivity data. Over the past two decades, the advance of technology has been amazing.

We walk around with a phone, dictionary, encyclopedia, geolocation device, etc., in the palm of our hand – and this has 054 ALT Magazine | February 2019

led some to conclude that slower productivity growth reflects a failure to capture these kinds of improvements.

However, a number of economic studies suggest that mismeasurement of output per worker has not been much of an issue in recent years.

One of the long-standing strengths of the U.S. economy has been the ability to re-invent itself. New industries arrive over time while others fade. Through this process, low-prouctivity jobs are shed, replaced by higher productivity jobs. However, as the population ages, we can expect to see less turnover in the economy. There is less job-hopping and less migration to other areas of the country. In turn, productivity growth will be less than it would be otherwise.

Technology changes, specifically in robotics and artificial intelligence, are expected to have significant effects on the U.S. economy. As with any technology change, the transitions for displaced workers can be difficult. Over the next couple of decades, technologies will almost certainly alter the economy in ways that we cannot even imagine.

A look to the near future

As the job market tightens, wage pressures should pick up. This should encourage more labor-saving capital expenditures. To gauge the inflationary impact from labor, wage growth is offset by productivity growth. If wages rise by 3% and output per worker rises 3%, then the labor cost per unit of output is unchanged. This is a key argument in the Federal Reserve’s gradual approach to normalizing monetary policy.

Output growth is the growth in labor plus the growth in output per worker.

Labor force growth will slow in the U.S. (and worldwide) and populations will age. It is unclear how demographic and technology forces will interact, but the pace of productivity growth should pick up relative to the last decade.

Opinions expressed are those of the author and are subject to change. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. There is no assurance any of the trends mentioned will continue or any forecasts will occur.

Economic and market conditions are subject to change.

Investing involves risks including the possible loss of capital.

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. 16-FA-WW-0283 BS 2/18

ALT-Mag.com | February 2019 055

Fish Tales with Mike Brower The Texarkana Gun Club is having what sounds like a pretty cool competition, it’s called a “Run N Gun”. Here are the details: This is a charity Run N Gun to benefit the Runnin' WJ Ranch, a local non-profit that provides therapy to children and adults with special needs. It will consist of a 5K course with several rifle and pistol stages throughout. We have categories for both Individuals and Teams. Entry includes event t-shirt and meal, and entry for prize table drawing.

Run & Guns are biathlon-style shooting competitions that combine running, or walking, a course while completing rifle and pistol shooting stages along the way. Competitors must carry everything they need to complete the course with them throughout the entire event, i.e. rifle, pistol, all ammunition, and any additional gear as they see fit. Our course consist of a 1.6 mile cross-country loop made up of mostly unimproved trail over varying, tough terrain. Besides the overall toughness of the trail, there will be additional obstacles that the competitors must negotiate along they way. Whether walking or running, this is a physically demanding event, and every competitor is responsible for insuring their own level of fitness for competing. Be prepared to climb, crawl, and travel through damp and remote areas.

The only things that are strictly required is a centerfire rifle, centerfire pistol, and enough ammo to complete the stages (at least twice the minimum round count for the course of fire is recommended). Shooters may use any type of gear they like to carry their equipment, the only requirement being that their pistol must be in a holster that fully retains it and covers the trigger.

Where: Texarkana Gun Club, 8872 FM 2149 Maud, Texas When: Saturday, March 20th at 8am. Gates open at 6am, check-in before 8am.

If this involved fishing and shooting, I would be a player.

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056 ALT Magazine | February 2019

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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.

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

ALT-Mag.com | February 2019 057

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058 ALT Magazine | February 2019

What's on the AGENDA?

FEBRUARY 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

Saturday, February 2nd

Black History Month begins at the Museum of Regional History with the collection and preservation of our past as we encourage local families to bring in their memorabilia to be scanned into our archival collection from 10 am until 5 pm. We will kick off Our Voices. Our Stories by recording interviews with those interested in sharing their memories. Admission is FREE and refreshments will be served. Visit www.TexarkanaMuseums.org/Events or call 903-793-4831 for more information.

Saturday, February 9th

African American Inventors are the focus of our Boredom Busters at Discovery Place Interactive Museum this month. Join us on Saturday March 9 from 2 pm until 3 pm as we learn about Albert Cralle, inventor of the Ice Cream Scoop, and create homemade ice cream! $8 per person. $3 TMS Members. Tickets available at www.TexarkanaMuseums.org/Events.

Saturday, February 16th

Ace of Clubs House grand opening of “Unheard Voices: The impact of AfricanAmerican servants on our community”. This permanent exhibit while showcase the lives of African-Americans during the 1920’s in Texarkana in the newly restored Servants’ Quarters of the home. Tours of the new exhibit and the home are $5 per person.

TMS Members are FREE.

Saturday, February 16th

Boredom Busters at Discovery Place Interactive Museum. Join us on Saturday March 16 from 2 pm until 3 pm as we learn about Garrett A. Morgan, inventor of the 3-position stoplight, and design our own stoplights. $5 per person. TMS Members are FREE. Tickets available at www.TexarkanaMuseums.org/Events.

Saturday, February 23rd

Texarkana Resident Charles Pace will present his one man show on W. E. B. DuBois from 2 pm until 4 pm at the P. J. Ahern Home. Register at www.TexarkanaMuseums.org/Events or call 903-793-4831 for more information.

Saturday, February 23rd

Our study of African American Inventors concludes this month with our Boredom Busters at Discovery Place Interactive Museum. Saturday March 23 from 2 pm until 3 pm as we learn about Philip B Downing, inventor of the Street Post Office Box, and build our own mailboxes. $5 per person. TMS Members are FREE. Tickets available at www.

TexarkanaMuseums. org/Events.

Call 903-793-4831 for more information.

Saturday, March 2nd

Music Month begins at the Museum of Regional History with a workshop and hands on demonstration of caring for and tuning musical instruments.

Admission to the Museum is only $5 per person. TMS Members are FREE. Register at www.

TexarkanaMuseums. org/Events or call 903-793-4831 for more information.

Saturday, March 2nd

Learn how to play the ukulele at Discovery Place Interactive Museum’s one-day workshop on Saturday March 2nd.Lunch will be provided for this workshop which runs from 10 am until 3 pm. $15 for TMS Members/$20 for others. Register at www.TexarkanaMuseums.org/Events or call 903-793-4831 for more information

Saturday, April 2nd

Charity Bike Ride event at Liberty-Eylau High School on Saturday, April 6, 2019.

The ride begins at 9am and registration and information can be found at www. arklatexchallenge.com All proceeds benefit Texarkana Resources for the Disabled, Inc.

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

There’s always a reason to celebrate! we can help you say it...

BIG!

Like us on Facebook @signgypsiesarklatex 903-392-9935 | Clyde and Beckie Lewis ALT-Mag.com | February 2019 059

Local Rescues

Adopt, Don’t Shop!

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

MERLIN

Boxer Rescue of Texarkana

DART

Texarkana Animal League

ATLANTA ANIMAL LEAGUE Facebook.com/ AtlantaAnimalLeague

ADAM

Passion For Pooches

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

ROSIE

Texarkana Humane Society

SUGAR

Arklatex Cocker Spaniel Rescue

ZEUS

Muttley Crew

SUNNY

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. 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.

060 ALT Magazine | February 2019

Ashley HomeStore

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

Newk's Eatery

Holiday Cleaners

our love language is 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 | February 2019 061

New name Same Great Service!

FM 559/ Richmond Road Gorgeous 12.39 acres 2/1 French County Charmer Unrestricted - out of city limits MLS#101505

2311 S. Stateline 4000 sf with 3 retail areas 20 parking spaces $229,900 MLS#101503

Connie Ruff Nations Realtor TX & AR since 1982

200 Roosevelt 2 bed and 1 bath / Remolded Exclusive / Appt.

Realtor Owned $38,900

Multi Million Dollar Producer

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

Service Excellence There’s No Place Like Home!

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

Raw land for sale 1 acre or more $19,000 per acre barndominiums welcome no mobile homes FM 1398 N - Redbank community Hooks, Tx

25 W. Greenfield Brand new 3/2 on almost half acre.

Granite everywhere and cute.

0 zero down if qualified. $156,900

17 knotty pine 5 bedroom 3 living, media room, inground pool, hot tub and 2 acres wooded.

Pleasant Grove Area

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 4110 Richmond Place | 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 $49,900 MLS#93100

Fall in LOVE with a new HOME this year!

Bill Spradlin Realtor 903-748-3186

Tracy Spradlin Broker 903-748-2477

Jan Williams Realtor 903-277-5771

Stephanie Maddox Realtor 903-701-1341

Ashley Spradlin Realtor 903-490-7172

Serving the Central Texas Area, from Austin, TX – San Antonio, TX

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

064 ALT Magazine | February 2019