ALT Magazine December 2017

December 2017 | Volume 11/Issue 12

Christmas Traditions Glimpses from four generations of women in the Fruge family

WINNERS OF TEXARKANA'S TOP LAWYERS 2017 IN THIS EDITION!

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

(Joshua 24:15)

2812 Richmond Rd. Richmond Park Center Texarkana TX, 75503

(903)735-2336

Monday-Saturday 10-6 www.micahsjewelers.com

This Christmas, take a pause from our busy lives and celebrate this holiday season with family...

Thank you for 44 years of business! We look forward to serving you in the future.

Merry Christmas Jerry Brewer 903-691-0941

& Happy New Year!

2603 Texas Blvd. Ste. 101 Texarkana, TX. 75503 | 903-793-2666 | www.amreal.com

Merry Christmas From us to you!

We appreciate your business and the opportunity to care for you and your loved ones.

The new generation of emergency care.

Voted Best ER For 2016!

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

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

ALT

D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 7 / V o l u m e 11 / I s s u e 1 2

magazine

covering the ark-la-tex

12

Christmas Traditions

58

Fish Tales

20

Christmas Recipes

60

Financial Focus

30

Texarkana Top Lawyers

62

Local Hot Sports

42

Winter Fashion

66

Calendar of Events

67

Ribbon Cuttings

68

Local Rescues

Fo r a d ver t i s i n g info r m atio n, c all 903. 334. 9605 COO / PUBLISHER / FOUNDER Debbie Brower CO-FOUNDER Jaclyn Gooding SALES & MARKETING Debbie Brower Jaclyn Gooding 903.334.9605 GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT Alyssa Bertrand PHOTOGRAPHY Alyssa Bertrand, Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Sylvia Jennings, Karen Lansdell CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mike Brower, Dustin Stringer FEATURE WRITERS Anne Granado If you have an event you would like to include in our Upcoming Events section, please e-mail us at: info@alt-mag.com.

A LT - M AG . c o m info@alt-mag.com 101 Slaton Dr. Nash, TX 75569 (903) 334-9605 ALT Magazine is published the 1st business day of every month. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission of ALT Magazine is strictly prohibited.

ALT Magazine is distributed free of charge. Direct mail subscriptions are available for $42.00 per year.

Contributions from our readers are welcome. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material.

06 ALT Magazine | December 2017

Pandora • Brighton • Vera Bradley • Wa

FANFARE GIFTS AND BOUTIQUE 2315 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 75503 Phone: 903.832.519 Holiday Hours!

Monday - Saturday 9:00 - 7:00 until Christmas

Co

• JellyCats • Jon Hart • Hobo • Lampe Berger •

SOME GREATS BRANDS YOU WILL SEE HERE! WA X I N G POETIC®

e ming • Mud Pie • Bridgewater • Circle E •Tyler Candle • Finchberry • Lollia • Musee • Costa •

x i ng Poetic • Mariana • Ronaldo • Luca & Danni • Arthur Court • Nora F l

rkcicle • Little Giraffe • Swankie Blankie • Magnificent Baby • Milkba r n

From the Publisher December is here already! I can't believe it. It seems like just yesterday we were celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and enjoying time with family and friends, at the end of 2016!

I love the Christmas season. I particularly enjoy all the food that comes with this time of year. (My body doesn't like all the extra calories, but I'll worry about that in January!)

The Fruge's have been friends of ours for many years. I love having gettogethers and playing with Anne's Baby Maren, while everyone gathers around the table to enjoy the many things we all bring. Anne, of course, has worked for ALT for many years. When we were debating on what type of article we wanted to include for the December issue, it occurred to me that her family was the perfect family to highlight. They are all very close, have lots of traditions, and love getting together! And who doesn't love getting recipes from other people? I mean, I was excited to have all of their recipes and intend to try some of them for my own family.

The family has now grown to include two babies, Maren and Mason, who are both adorable! They will end up with so many traditions passed down to them.

Although the article was all about the women in the family, we can't forget the men -- Max and Patrick.

Max is the perfect grandfather, taking care of both children while we were preparing for our shoot.

You can see the love and care shining from his eyes as he holds one while trying to get the other to smile! He truly loves his family and wants the very best for them.

Anne's brother, Patrick, lives in the Dallas area, and visits quite often, very much taking part in all the family festivities and loving on his niece and nephew.

Whatever traditions you may have for your family, remember that memories made are worth so much more than gifts bought. I remember so many Christmases as a child, eating my mom's chicken and dumplings, turkey and dressing, and candied sweet potatoes. We were talking just recently about how no one in the family actually knows how to cook any of that but me. I was always the one standing by, watching and tasting, as she made dinner for us, and I have practiced for many years to perfect that. Hopefully Jaclyn will learn, as I did, and keep the tradition alive.

So, no matter what you have planned, enjoy celebrating Jesus' birth with your family. Make some memories. Do something good for someone less fortunate. Sponsor a family or a child. Be the change in the world you want to see.

God bless you and yours this Christmas...

08 ALT Magazine | December 2017

Less Paperwork. Less Expense. A Quality, Safe and Convenient Experience.

Merry Christmas from your friends at

Texarkana Gastroenterology Consultants and The Endoscopy Center of Texarkana

James J. BOEHMKE, DO

John C. COZART, MD

Johnathan D. STEELE, PA-C

Robyn R. KEAHEY, NP-C

Laura G. BALMAIN, MD

Brian J. SO, MD

Stephen L. STEELE, MD

Texarkana Gastroenterology Consultants | 1920 Moores Lane Texarkana, TX 75503 | 903.792.8030 The Endoscopy Center of Texarkana | www.Tgastro.com | 903.791.8657

FRIDAY DECEMBER 8

4-00 - 7:00 Free Gift Bag With Purchase!

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Online

Event!

Black Friday Type Pricing!

DEU America Faceboo

2nd Annu 20% Off DEU and Obagi Products Entire Month of December!

w e N WEIGHT LOSS

DON'T LET THE HOLID

JOIN US IN DISCUSSING WEIG

THUR

LI

ok Page!

FREE GIFT

WEEK

Wednesday December 13 Shop from 7-9 pm

DECember 4-8

Lots of Discounts and Fabulous Savings for Everyone!

Receive a free gift with product purchase of $40 or more!

ual

S SMALL GROUP

DAYS OR THOSE POUNDS SNEAK UP ON YOU THIS SEASON!

GHT LOSS TRUTHS AND HOW NOT TO GAIN WEIGHT THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS!

RSDAY, DECEMBER 7TH, 7:00 PM

IMITED SPACE AVAILABLE - CALL TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT

Give the gift of health!

903.831.5659

5303 Cowhorn Creek | Texarkana, TX 75503 | www.TexasBodySculpting.com

Christmas Traditions Throughout the generations, the Fruge family has passed down its secrets to a wonderful, fun-filled, Christmas!

by Anne Fruge Granado When I think of Christmas, I think of walking into my mother’s house. Immediately, the smells of the holidays assail my senses: candles burning on the table by the door, cinnamon coffee cake baking in the oven, and evergreen branches gracing the holiday arrangement on the table. As you step into the room, visiting family members say “hi,” and my mom comes rushing out of the kitchen wiping her hands before she helps me carry in a bag of presents, delicious cheeses, and jalapeño jelly.

As a child, the magic of Christmas was entwined in the mystery of Santa, and the miracle of Jesus’ birth. Reading the Christmas story and putting out handmade decorated sugar cookies were the highlights of Christmas Eve. I remember going to bed in my upstairs room imagining that every creak in the old house was reindeer hooves on the roof. Suddenly, I would wake up to the morning light streaming through the window and rush to my brother's and sister’s rooms so we could go down the stairs together.

After opening presents, my mom and grandmothers would retreat to the kitchen to work on a delicious breakfast including my Gran’s famous Mexican “fudge,” and they would start preparations for the Christmas feast to come while everyone played with presents around the tree.

012 ALT Magazine | December 2017

like it did when I was a child.

For me, the joy of Christmas changed when I went away to college and began to explore the world of food. I would stay awake studying in my dorm room, but I needed something on the TV to make it seem less like work. One day while channel surfing for the perfect backdrop to my comprehensive history test, I found the Food Network, a channel I did not even know existed. Late at night, Emeril’s “Bam!” would then switch to Iron Chef Japan. The awkward voice-overs and over dramatic subtitles made it the perfect choice for studying. Soon, my TV never left the channel, and I began to talk to my mom on the phone about ingredients and techniques I was seeing.

As the years passed, my parents did a wonderful job of keeping our holiday traditions alive. Even as teenagers, we read the Christmas story before bed and had stockings for “Santa” to fill. The story of Jesus’ birth began to take on new meaning as I explored the adult world of loss, pain, hope, and love. However, each year it seemed like the magic and mystery of Christmas was replaced with long to-do lists, the financial strain of buying presents and the stress of shopping. I remember sitting by the tree as a teenager as my mom and grandmothers worked in the kitchen and wishing that the day felt more

My mom had always been the cook in the family. As a stay-at-home mother, she believed her duty was to provide hot meals every night as her family regathered at home around the table after our days at school and work.

We hardly ever ate out except for an occasional Friday night trek to a fried fish restaurant or a Sunday outing to Golden Corral or KFC. While food had always been an important part of every holiday, and we all had our own favorite dishes, growing up in small town Atlanta had not provided me with the window into the vastness of the food world that came from watching the Food Network. Luckily, food began to bridge the gap that

the magic of “As a child,

Christmas was

entwined in the mystery of Santa and the miracle of

Jesus' Birth.�

ALT-Mag.com | Decemberr2017 013

years of teenage angst and struggle against parental authority had dug into the relationship between my mother and I. As we connected over thin crust pizza with prosciutto and cedar planked salmon, the door was opened to new experiences together.

She came to visit me at college, and we would make the drive to Little Rock to eat at new places and try new things. Then, we would pick up dessert from some fabulous place we had heard of and take it back to Arkadelphia to eat in twin beds watching Iron Chef Japan. These times together helped patch the hurt places and fill in the holes our angry words had left as high school had drawn to a close. For the first time, I felt like my mom was my friend.

Soon, we were printing out Food Network recipes and filling binders to the brim with things we wanted to try (pre-Pinterest, of course).

Family gatherings and holidays became a time to try poblano and sausage stuffing, Ina Garten’s rustic apple tarts, whole beef tenderloin and cheeses that went beyond the Walmart three pack of cheddars. Our family never fought us on being the official taste-testers for everything we wanted to try (including a horrendous Christmas Eve encounter with duchess potatoes) and the excitement and adventure began to spread. As a family, we began to get excited to try new restaurants, attempt new recipes, and bring home

014 ALT Magazine | December 2017

“Our

traditions will be spread to a new

generation,

and we will see the magic and mystery through new

Eyes.”

exciting finds from the grocery store. Family gatherings became excuses to “try something new” and vacations became adventures in culinary cultures. We began sending each other pictures of our food when we went somewhere awesome, and we looked ahead at menus when we picked our next food find. When my brother comes home from Dallas, he always asks what we are having, and my mom and I try to up the ante every time.

Recently, inspired by her favorite sauce at Ironwood, Mom and I made homemade remoulade for my Mimi’s Ritz cracker crusted fried shrimp that we stuffed into mouthwatering po-boys. The satisfaction of making the sauce didn’t just come from the fact that it turned out delicious; there is pride in attempting something new and having it please other people.

My mom and I may have brought culinary arts to the forefront of our family’s conversations and times together, but each family member brings something new to the table.

My brother, Patrick, is extremely adventurous with food. His college days in Austin and early career days in Houston gave us an excuse to travel to some of the hottest spots in food culture. He introduced my husband, Jason, and I to raw oysters, at his favorite place in Houston, and surprisingly, we had to order

creative with my meal choices, and she has surprised me every Monday with something new and delicious.

My mom is truly not afraid to try to cook anything. She finds a recipe and decides to make it, even if it means an extensive hunt for uncommon ingredients. More than that, my mom is the consummate hostess. While I’m more likely to reach for paper plates and take some short-cuts, my mom’s table looks gorgeous at every family event and holiday. She takes pride in her menu and table choices. She says that she got this from her mother, my Gran, who moved in with my parents six years ago.

another round. He’s also not afraid to experiment with food substitutions and healthy alternatives. On our lake trip this summer, he introduced us to riced cauliflower with turkey tacos. I was dubious about healthy food being any kind of culinary adventure, but the tastes were exotic and inspiring.

My sister, Emily, will cook anything, but she is especially good at grilling. She is the one who taught us the secret of putting mayo on grilled corn on the cob, and how to grill pork tenderloin without over cooking it. Her fresh guacamole and deviled eggs are requested at every family event. A recent addition is the cranberry salsa she has begun making for Christmas. Her recipe book is varied, and she is never afraid to try something new and tell us how it turned out.

My father, Max, has always enjoyed great and simple food. He’s just as happy with a leftovers sandwich and Fritos as he is with a perfectly cooked steak.

However, at every restaurant, my dad wants to know what they are famous for and order that dish. Sometimes the waiter’s recommendations are a home run, and sometimes, like a family favorite story about eggplant parmesan, they are less than extraordinary. However, my dad will try anything, and he

praises everything we attempt in the kitchen. Mom and I tend to keep talking about how the new recipe needs more salt and less time in the oven, but my dad will make yummy sounds and eat his entire portion. Then, he always pushes my mom and I out of the kitchen while he does the dishes. My father’s encouragement always gives us confidence to try something new.

My Gran always made holidays look easy. When we arrived at her home in Dallas, she already had snacks laid out and three-day coconut cake in the fridge. When we woke up in the morning, she would have breakfast ready and individual cups of powdered sugar at our places for us to dip our strawberries in. Being

903.278.4444 903.334.9605

My mother has taken over the majority of the cooking reins as I spend time with my infant daughter.

Every Monday night, Mom, Gran and I get together to watch Dancing with the Stars, and my mom and I always use this night as an excuse to try something new. However, this season, my mother has understood that teaching school and taking care of Maren leaves little time to be ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 015

Gran handpainted these gingerbread men the first Christmas after her daughter Teresa announced she was expecting her first child, Anne.

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

4th Annual Santa Sprint December 9th 8 am Ace of Clubs House

Jack Frost Cookies and Milk December 9th 2 pm to 3 pm The Discovery Place

Stories of the Season Dramatic Christmas Readings December 23rd 2 pm to 4 pm Ahern House

• SaturdayS & SundayS ViSit the MuSeuM of regional hiStory, ace of clubS, and P.J. ahern houSe for SoMe holiday SPirit. full of fun, MuSic, and edible treatS! *Please call for specific times

016 ALT Magazine | December 2017

at Gran’s always felt like a treat. She had prepared for everything and thought of everything, and meal-planned perfectly for every member of the family. I now know how much work went into these visits, and I can see where my mother gets pride from providing these experiences for us.

Ultimately, the women in our family paved the way to make holidays a time about food and family around the table. My grandmothers and my mother passed down the traditions that made the holidays special. They hung up the decorations, cooked everyone’s favorite dishes, and worked tirelessly to host anyone who may walk through the door. As my mom and I began cooking and hosting parties and Christmas events together, I was able to appreciate all the little things they had done for so many years.

Without even trying, food began to unite the holidays in a way that couldn’t happen when it was only my mother and grandmothers in the kitchen. Growing up, I remember them calling us for dinner;

now, the kitchen is the place to be. When you walk into my mother’s house during the holidays, pet our faithful door greeter, Riley, and head straight to the kitchen, you will find me stirring the sauce on the stove, my dad carving up the meat, my mom creating the appetizer charcuterie platter, my sister asking someone to taste her salsa, my Gran setting the table, and Patrick and Jason doing whatever they can to help. The happiness is not just in the Instagram-worthy final product but in the hours it takes to prepare it together.

Community Christmas Event!

Free Photos With Santa!

SATURDAY. DECEMBER 9th 2:00PM - 5:00PM

Now there are two new babies in the family. Maren, 11 months, and Mason, 1 month, who will soon be enveloped in the magic of Christmas with Santa and stockings. We will take them to get their pictures made with Santa and drive through magical lights. We will get them to leave out cookies for Santa and set out the nativity scene as we read through the Christmas story.

Our traditions will be spread to a new generation, and we will see the magic and mystery through new eyes. As we cook in the kitchen, we will keep an eye out for them playing with presents under the tree. However, as they grow older, I hope the tradition they like the most is cooking with family and visiting around the table. I hope one day they, too, find the joy of the holidays in the kitchen with us.

903.949.6863

4116 GIBSON LANE BEHIND TARGET

Tooth avulsion

With the holidays here, the family activities underway, and we all know what that means. No one ever expects anything bad to happen, but are you prepared in case something does happen?

SPECIALIZING IN ROOT CANALS!

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

Root Canal? !

s e i r r o w No Introducing GentleWaveTM

The comfortable, quick and effective root canal procedure.

Helping Your Dentist Relieve Pain & Preserve Natural Teeth Dr. Jason M. Michel, DDS | 1726 Galleria Oaks Dr., Texarkana, TX | 903.793.7411 | www.texarkanaendo.com ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 017

Moxibustion

Oriental Medicine: Laser

Uses Light Amplification

by Stimulated Emmision of Radiation known to reduce swelling and pain

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

MicroCurrent Therapy

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

Cupping

Suction cup method used to help circulation and reduce swelling

Tui Na

Chinese style physical therapy or massage

Oriental Medicine

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

CHOICE AW RS

VO T ED BE ST APART MENT S IN T EXAR KANA FO R 2016 ALT R EADER ’ S C H O IC E!

DS AR

5 STAR R AT ING O N G O O G LE

R E AD E

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

2017

ALT magazine

Granite Counter Tops | Built in Microwave Crown Molding Built in Bookshelves | Stainless Steel Package Linen Closets | Frost Free Refrigerator w/Ice Maker Self Cleaning Ovens with Timer | Spacious Kitchen w/Island Bar | Pet Friendly | and so much more!

3515 ARISTA BLVD. | TEXARKANA, TX | 903.255.7869 | www.AristaAp artmentsTexarkana.c om 018 ALT Magazine | December 2017

“Discover the Vanco Difference!”

2301 Texas Blvd Texarkana, TX, 75501 vancosystems.com 903.794.1013 We have a 6-Month Lay-A-Way Program!

Contact Allen Clement or Randy Ottinger for all your Toshiba copier needs!

The Perfect Guitars For Little Hands!

(903) 334-7383 108B Industrial Blvd Nash, TX, 75569

903.255.0090

903.792.WING(9464)

2700 Richmond RoadSuite 14A1

On the corner of N.State Line and Texas Blvd

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

Wings Made Fresh to Order, Never Pre-Cooked!

Call the Wing Experts!

Or Order On-Line at: www.wingstop.com

Holiday Party?

We Have You Covered!

Call Us Today To Cater Your Holiday Party!

Garlic Parmesan | Louisiana Rub | Lemon Pepper | Hickory Smoked BBQ Hawaiian | Teriyaki | Mild | Original Hot | Mango Habanero | Atomic | Cajun

Bone-In Wing, Boneless Wings & Boneless Tenders

SKIP THE WAIT.

Try our FREE APP!!

ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 019

RECIPES

from THE FRUGES 1.

Pour strawberries, oranges and pineapple into a colander over a sink to drain.

2. Once drained, transfer mixture to serving bowl.

3. Stir in bananas and 1 can cherry pie filling (do not drain the pie filling) 4. Keep chilled until you serve

Gran's Coffee Cakes (makes 2) (Perfect as gifts for the holidays!)

Gran's Three Day Coconut Cake 1 pkg. Duncan Hines butter cake mix 3 pkgs. Frozen shredded coconut, thawed but still cool 1 small carton of sour cream 2 cups granulated sugar 1.

Bake butter cake mix into three layers following directions on package.

2. Mix coconut, sugar, and sour cream and spread between layers and on top.

3. Wrap in Saran Wrap and place in the refrigerator.

4. The cake is better after being refrigerated for 3-4 days before serving.

Max’s Favorite Fruit Salad 1 20 oz. pkg of frozen strawberries 1 large can of mandarin oranges 1 large can of chunk pineapple 2 bananas, sliced 1 can cherry pie filling 020 ALT Magazine | December 2017

2 sticks butter 1 ¼ cup sugar 2 eggs, beaten 1 cup sour cream 1 tsp. Vanilla 2 cups flour 1 tsp. Baking powder ½ tsp. Baking soda 1 cup chopped nuts 5 tablespoons white sugar 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1. Cream together sugar, butter, eggs, and add vanilla.

2. Mix in sour cream and flour alternately, beginning with flour and ending with flour

3. Make the topping by mixing together nuts, white sugar and cinnamon.

4. Grease two round cake pans.

5. In each cake plan, alternate ½ batter, ½ topping, ½ batter, rest of the topping mixture.

6. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-45 minutes.

Mom's Rolled Cinnamon Sugar Angel Cookies 2 sticks of unsalted butter, softened 1 cup sugar 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 3 cups of flour 2 teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon cinnamon ¼ teaspoon salt 1 (15 oz) container creamy vanilla frosting 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

Beat ¾ cup butter at medium speed until fluffy; gradually add 1 cup sugar, beating well.

Add egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, beating well.

Combine flour and next 4 ingredients Gradually add to butter mixture, beating until blended.

Shape dough into a ball.

Cover and chill for 30 minutes.

Roll dough to 1/8" inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.

Cut with cookie cutter and gently transfer to lightly greased baking sheets.

Bake at 375 degrees for 6-7 minutes or until lightly browned.

Carefully remove cookies to wire racks to cool.

Microwave frosting, uncovered, on high for 45 seconds or until spreading consistency.

Spoon frosting on top of cookies and spread evenly.

Decorate.

Let stand 10-15 minutes to dry ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 021

At Christmas, all roads lead

3412 Richmond Rd (Across from Ace Hardware) | Texarkana, TX 75503 | (430) 200-0854 022 ALT Magazine | December 2017 www.persnicketytoo.com | www.facebook.com/persnicketytoo

Steaks • Seafood • Sandwiches

CURB SERVICE Now Open!

Plan your holiday party here!

Lunch Hours 11am - 3pm Monday - Friday Starting December 1st

We Cater.

P rivate Parties • Special Events • Catering • Pastry Chef •

Live Music

511 E. 51st Street | Texarkana, AR 71854 | 870.773.2544 | www.cafefiveeleven.com ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 023

Teresa’s Christmas Beef Tenderloin with Shallot Sauce 1 lb. shallots, peeled and halved lengthwise 2 tablespoons olive oil ¾ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon pepper 1 tablespoon salt 1 ½ teaspoons onion powder 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder 1 ½ teaspoons pepper 1 ½ teaspoons chopped fresh or ½ teaspoon dried thyme 1 (6-pound) beef tenderloin, trimmed (Mom buys her’s at Sam’s and then cuts in half to lay in the bottom of the pan) ¼ cup olive oil 3 cups beef broth 1 cup dry Marsala wine 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 3 tablespoons water 3 tablespoons butter or margarine ¼ teaspoon pepper Garnish: fresh thyme 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Toss shallots and 2 tablespoons oil in a bowl; stir in ¾ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper.

Set aside.

Stir together 1 tablespoon salt and next 4 ingredients.

Rub tenderloin with ¼ cup olive oil; sprinkle seasonings over top and sides of tenderloin, pressing gently with fingers.

Place tenderloin in a large roasting pan; arrange shallots around tenderloin. There’s no need to grease the pan because tenderloin and shallots have been oiled.

Bake, uncovered, at 500 degrees for 25 minutes. (The high temps and oil always make our smoke alarms go off, but we just open a few windows!)

Reduce oven temperature to 375 degrees and bake 30 more minutes or until meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of roast registers 145 degrees (medium rare) or 160 degrees (medium).

Meanwhile, stir together beef broth and Marsala wine in a large skillet. Bring to a boil; boil 6 to 8 minutes or until liquid is reduced to 2 cups.

Remove tenderloin to a serving platter and cover with aluminum foil; reserve shallots and drippings in pan.

024 ALT Magazine | December 2017

9.

Add broth reduction to pan, and place over medium heat on cooktop, stirring to loosen particles from bottom of pan.

10. Whisk together flour and water until smooth; stir into sauce in roasting pan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened. Add butter, stirring just until melted. Stir in ¼ teaspoon pepper.

11.

Thinly slice roast, and serve with sauce. Garnish, if desired.

Emily’s Christmas Cranberry Salsa 12 oz fresh cranberries ¾ cup granulated sugar (add more to taste) 1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped coarsely (leave the seeds in if you like it spicy) ½ cup cilantro 4 green onions 2 tablespoons lime juice Pinch of salt 1.

Place all ingredients in the food processor and pulse until desired consistency.

2.

Chill in the fridge for a couple of hours (preferably overnight) to allow the salsa to macerate.

3.

Serve over cream cheese and with crackers.

Note: Taste to make sure your salsa doesn’t need more sugar. Some cranberries are more tart than others.

Mimi’s German Chocolate Fudge 4 ½ cups sugar ½ lb. butter 1 cup evaporated milk 12 oz. chocolate chips 1 pkg. German’s sweet chocolate 1 (14 oz.) jar marshmallow cream 2 cups broken pecans 1.

Combine sugar, butter, and evaporated milk and bring to a boil.

2. Boil for nine minutes, stirring constantly. (Be sure it is the full 9 minutes.)

3. Remove from heat.

4. Add the chocolate chips and German’s chocolate, broken. Stir until melted.

5. Add marshmallow cream and stir until well melted.

6. Add nuts and mix.

7. Pour into greased 11x15 inch pan.

8. Cut when completely cooked.

Two large Banquet Rooms • Private or Semi-Private Perfect for Parties, Rehearsal Dinners or Business Meetings

Tuesday is

Prime Rib Night! $17.95

Open at 5:30

(870) 774-4481 / 4018 N STATE LINE AVE / TEXARKANA, AR 71854 WWW.CATTLEMANSTEXARKANA.COM

ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 025

Stay at Residence Inn by Marriott, Texarkana for the Holidays!

IT'S NOT A HOTEL...

IT'S A RESIDENCE! • Convenient 24-hour Market • Spacious Studio & One Bedroom Suites • • • • •

Fully Equipped In-suite Kitchens Free Daily Hot Breakfast Free Wi-Fi in All Suites & Lobby Free Grocery Delivery Business Center Services

• • • • •

Dry Cleaning & On-site Laundry Complimentary Paul Mitchell products Lower Rates for Longer Stays Pet-Friendly Nearby Restaurants, Shopping & Movie Theater

3900 St. Michael Drive | Texarkana, TX 75503 | 1-430-200-0742 | ResidenceInnTexarkana.com

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

Get In The Holiday Spirit!

20% Off Wine

November 15th through Christmas!

870.772.0613 • 820 Realtor Road • Texarkana, AR 026 ALT Magazine | December 2017

NOW OPEN IN TWO LOCATIONS!!

1443 N. Kings Hwy. 903. 838. 0422

K-Mart Shopping Center 903. 223. 0149

Donuts are ALWAYS the Answer!

Smaller Incision. Less Pain.

Faster Recovery.

Robot Hernia Repair

Complex robotic assisted procedures to treat cancer and other diagnoses of the abdomen and chest.

Beth Peterson, MD FACS Marney Sorenson, MD FACS Board certified General Surgeons

right here at home!

5002 Cowhorn Creek Rd | Texarkana, TX 75503

903.614.3007

Seasons Greetings Sending Everyone Holiday Wishes From All Of Us At Dustin Stringer, Stringer Wealth Management Financial Advisor 1620 North Kings Highway // Nash, TX 75569 903.223.0011 // Fax 903.223.0589 Dustin.Stringer@RaymondJames.com www.stringerwealthmanagement.net

Texarkana Convention Center

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

903.255.4664 903.792.1065

2910 S. Cowhorn Creek Loop, Texarkana, Texas 75503 Texarkana.hgi.com | sales@texarkanaconventioncenter.com 028 ALT Magazine | December 2017

SHOP&EAT LOCAL Plan Your Holiday Party With Us!

Cakes | Reception | Events | Brunch | Rehearsals | Planning 4055 Summerhill Square | 903.792.3354 | juliesdeli.com

(870)-773-4444 | 212 E Broad St. | Texarkana, AR 71854 www.veronaonbroad.com

ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 029

Texarkana’s Top Lawyer

Monty Murry

Murry Law Office Education • Baylor University – BA 1983 • Baylor University School of Law – JD 1985 Licenses and Certifications • Board Certified Personal Injury Trial Law • Texas Board of Legal Specialization • Licensed to Practice Law in Texas & Arkansas • Licensed Mediator Memberships • Texas Trial Lawyers Association • Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association • State Bar of Texas • Arkansas Bar Association • U.S. Supreme Court • U.S. Court of Appeals – Fifth & Eighth Circuits • U.S. District Courts – Northern & Eastern Districts of Texas and Western District of Arkansas

030 ALT Magazine | December 2017

Texarkana’s YOUNG Top Lawyer

CADE MAYO

J.michael brock, pllc Education • New Boston High School Graduate of 2006 • B.S.B.A in Finance - University of Arkansas - 2011 • UALR William H. Bowen School of Law - JD 2015 Licenses and Certifications • Licensed to Practice Law in Texas & Arkansas • Licensed Mediator Memberships • Member and President - Elect of the West Bowie County Rotary Club Practice Areas • Probate • Estate Planning • Family Law • Social Security Disability • Real Property/Real Estate • Business Organization Law

ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 031

TEXARKANA'S TOP LAWYER 2017

ADMINISTRATIVE/ REGULATORY LAW TEXARKANA'S TOP LAWYER

Winner: Monty G. Murry Murry & Hudspeth

First Runner -Up: George Matteson Law Office of George Matteson Nominees: Howard Mowery Butch Dunbar Demaris Hart

TEXARKANA'S TOP YOUNG LAWYER

Winner: Cade Mayo J. Michael Brock, PLLC First Runner -Up: Ben King Nix Patterson & Roach Nominees: Josh Thane Randal Smolarz

032 ALT Magazine | December 2017

Winner: Jennifer Doan Haltom & Doan First Runner -Up: Greg Giles Moore, Giles, & Matteson Nominees: David Ruff George Matteson Jim Haltom Phillip Jordan Darby Doan

APPELLATE PRACTICE Winner: John Mercy Mercy Carter Tidwell, LLP First Runner -Up: Jonathon Ross, Assistant US Attorney US Attorneys Office Nominees: Ryan Locker, Assistant US Attorney Lisa McPherson Troy Hornsby Donald R. Ross Lauren Sutton Richards, Asst. District Attorney

BANKING & FINANCE LAW Winner: Nick Newton Langdon Davis Law Firm First Runner -Up: Rob McGinnis Law Office of Rob Mcginnis Nominees: Kyle Davis Cory Floyd

BANKRUPTCY AND CREDITOR

Winner: David Ruff Law Office of David Ruff First Runner -Up: Rodney McDaniel McDaniel Law Office Nominees: David James

BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS

CRIMINAL DEFENSE NONWHITE COLLAR

Winner: Wes Jordan Jordan Law Firm LLP

Winner: Jason Horton Jason Horton Law Office

First Runner -Up: Kyle Davis Langdon Davis Law Firm

First Runner -Up: Shorty Barrett Barrett & Tyler

Nominees: Nick Newton Troy Hornsby David Glass Phillip Jordan Jim Haltom

Nominees: Jeff Harrelson Craig Henry Joe Tyler Darren Anderson John Pickett

First Runner -Up: David Carter Mercy Carter Tidwell, LLP Nominees: Brent Langdon Ben King Mark Burgess Darren Anderson Brent Langdon Jim Haltom

CORPORATE LAW

Winner: Jim Haltom Haltom & Doan

Nominees: Jason Horton Jeff Harrelson John Pickett Darren Anderson

DUI/DWI DEFENSE

Winner: Jason Horton Jason Horton Law Office

CRIMINAL DEFENSE COMMERCIAL LITIGATION WHITE COLLAR

Winner: Howard Mowery Spicer Rudstrom PLLC

First Runner -Up: Joe Tyler Barrett & Tyler

Winner: Craig Henry Law Office of Craig Henry Law Office of

David Ruff, II Licensed to practice in Texas and Arkansas

First Runner -Up: Shorty Barrett Barrett & Tyler Nominees: Mike Lusk Mark Elliott John Pickett Jacob Potter

Thank you Texarkana, for voting me

Top Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights Lawyer

First Runner -Up: Nick Newton Langdon Davis Law Firm “We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy under the bankruptcy code.”

903-792-5313 | 870-774-1672 | 800-261-9582 davidrufflaw.com ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 033

034 ALT Magazine | December 2017

EMPLOYMENT LAW

Winner: Louise Tausch Atchley, Russell, Waldrop, and Hlavinka, LLP First Runner -Up: Greg Giles Moore, Giles, & Matteson Nominees: Lisa McPherson David Glass

FAMILY LAW

Winner: Demaris Hart Langdon Davis Law Firm First Runner -Up: Michael Friedman Friedman Law Office Nominees: Howard Mowery Mark Elliott Amy Freedmam

HEALTH CARE LAW Winner:

Paul Miller Miller, James, Miller, & Hornsby LLC

MEDIATION

First Runner -Up: Howard Mowery Spicer Rudstrom PLLC

Winner: John Mercy Mercy Carter Tidwell, LLP

Nominees: Paul Miller Marshall Wood Hawley Holman David Glass

First Runner -Up: Demaris Hart Langdon Davis Law Firm Nominees: James Cranford John Greer

LABOR LAW

Winner: Greg Giles Moore, Giles, & Matteson First Runner -Up: Louise Tausch Atchley, Russell, Waldrop, and Hlavinka, LLP Nominees: Paul Miller David Glass Glen Hudspeth Jim Haltom

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE DEFENDANTS

Winner: Paul Miller Miller, James, Miller, & Hornsby LLC First Runner -Up: Howard Mowery Spicer Rudstrom PLLC

B

Mark Burgess* John Mark Burgess

First Runner -Up: Jennifer Doan Haltom & Doan Nominees: Bobby Howell

INSURANCE LAW

Winner: Mark Burgess Mark Burgess Law Firm

* Board Certified – Civil Trial Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization; Board Certified – Personal Injury Trial Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

Licensed to Practice in Texas, Arkansas and oklahoma, and Federal Courts in texas and arkansas.

4201 Texas Blvd.

Texarkana, Texas 75503 www.markburgesslaw.com

Ph: (903) 838-4450 Fax: (844) 270-5674 Email: mark@markburgesslaw.com ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 035

036 ALT Magazine | December 2017

PERSONAL INJURY DEFENDANTS

Nominees: Alan Harrel Jennifer Doan John Greer J. Michael Smith

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE PLAINTIFFS

Winner: David Carter Mercy Carter Tidwell, LLP First Runner -Up: John Greer Greer Miller Nominees: Howard Mowery Darby Doan

Winner: Paul Miller Miller, James, Miller, & Hornsby LLC First Runner -Up: Brent Langdon Langdon Davis Law Firm

First Runner -Up: Howard Mowery Spicer Rudstrom PLLC Nominees: Ben King Brent Langdon David Carter

PRODUCT LIABILITY DEFENDANTS

Nominees: Howard Mowery Mark Burgess Jon Beck

Winner: Brent Langdon Langdon Davis Law Firm

PERSONAL INJURY PLAINTIFFS

First Runner -Up: Howard Mowery Spicer Rudstrom PLLC

Winner: Monty G. Murry Murry & Hudspeth

Nominees: Brandon Cogburn Marshall Wood John Thane Darby Doan

Over 25 years of experience Licensed to practice in Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma and the United States Supreme Court

THANK YOU! for Voting me

criminal defense: white collar Texarkana’s Top Lawyers 2017

Practice Areas Murder, Homicide and Manslaughter • Sexual Offenses • Federal and State Drug Crimes • Federal White Collar Crimes • Robbery, Burglary and Theft Aggravated Assault • Fraud • Probation Violations Misdemeanor Criminal Offense • DWI

723 Main Street | Texarkana, TX 75501 | 903-792-4645 ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 037

PRODUCT LIABILITY PLAINTIFFS

Winner: Howard Mowery Spicer Rudstrom PLLC First Runner -Up: David Carter Mercy Carter Tidwell, LLP Nominees: Ben King Brent Langdon Hawley Holman J. Michael Smith Darren Anderson

WORKERS COMP CLAIMANTS

First Runner -Up: Jennifer Doan Haltom & Doan Nominees: Don Capshaw Mark Elliott Wes Jordan Bobby Howell Nick Newton Mike Unger

Winner: Greg Giles Moore, Giles, & Matteson

TRUSTS & ESTATES

WORKERS COMP EMPLOYERS

First Runner -Up: David Glass Smith Weber Law Firm

Winner: Ed Miller Miller James Miller & Hornsby LLP

REAL ESTATE LAW

Winner: Mike Brock J. Michael Brock, PLLC

First Runner -Up: Mike Brock J. Michael Brock, PLLC

Winner: Jeff Elliott Elliot Law Firm

Nominees: Tina Green Kyle Davis John Ross

J. Michael Brock PLLC Thank You!

Voted “Top Lawyer” for Commercial Litigation and Product Liability - Plaintiffs

Thank you

for voting us Texarkana’s Top Lawyers

Cade Mayo Texarkana’s Top Young Lawyer

J. Michael Brock Real Estate Law

216 N Center St, New Boston, TX 75570 | 903.628.2554 038 ALT Magazine | December 2017

Murry Law Office Specializing in Auto, Truck & Motorcycle Accidents

Voted texarkana’s top Lawyer and

top personaL Injury LItIgatIonpLaIntIffs Lawyer 2017 Monty G. Murry, Murry Law Office 3918 Texas Blvd. | Texarkana, TX 75503 903.823.3000 | Fax 903.823.3002 mgmurry@murrylaw.com

ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 039

Marc-André Bougie, Conducting

Celebrity Conductor Competition!

REPERTOIRE INCLUDES

Dan Goeller: A Christmas Festival of Carols Randol Alan Bass: Twas’ the Night before Christmas and more!

TEXAR of

RK

A

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

7 TH ANNUAL

NA KA

S E A S O N

TICKET INFORMATION / $53, $45, $30 CHILD TICKETS / $13 (6-12 years old), $7 (up to 5 years old)

DON’T MISS THE

A NSA

S

Sunday, December 10, 2017 Historic Perot Theatre: 4:00PM

PEROT

PROUDLY SPONSORED IN PART BY:

CITY

CHRISTMAS

AT THE

In loving memory of Florence and George Crank by the Gray and McGinnis families

903-792-4992 / TEXARKANASYMPHONY.ORG

Time in a Bottle Day Spa • Our “Time in a Bottle for a Day” • Our “Tranquility Package” • Our Signature Heated Stone Massage • Our Signature Massage & Aromatherapy Glow Treatment • Our Classic Swedish Massage • Our "Perfect Massage " Therapy

Give the gift of relaxation for

Christmas!

-Balayage Coloring -Nanokeratin Conditioning -European Relaxers -Mastey Hair Color (ammonia Free)

HAIR DESIGN SYSTEM

Connect with us!

2801 Robin Lane • Texarkana, Texas • (903) 832-6951 040 ALT Magazine | December 2017

Join during the month of December and get

1 Month

FREE!

600 North Kings Hwy Wake Village, TX 75501

(903) 832-5438 ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 041

2017

Winter

Fashion Special Thanks to our DBP Models!

Caylin Scates Raichel Frye Trinity Page Kaitlyn Roden Carleigh Scates Hope Estes Lindsey Williams Summer Horton Morgan Hackleman Kenzie Cowan CJ Swift Connor Howell

LPersonal ily B ennett Training evolve towards your

STRONGER self...

Have The Best Christmas This Year!

• National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer (NASM CPT) • Corrective Exercise Specialist • Fully Customizable, Flexible Program With Proven Results • Dedicated To Improving The Way You Move.

(903) 949-5954

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

Gifts for everyone you know!

Texarkana’s Discount Golf Store

Happy Holidays From Us To You!

3435 Richmond Rd. 903.223.6010

Serving Texarkana for over 24 years.

Gift giving made easy.

SHOP LOCAL. SHOP HERE. Personalized 5035 West Park Blvd.

Texarkana, Texas, 75503

(903)832-2698 GIFT GIFT CERTIFICATES CERTIFICATES ALWAYS ALWAYS FIT! FIT! ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 043

Fashion

2017

Winter 044 ALT Magazine | December 2017

Get all these great looks at Traditions Bridal & Formal!

ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 045

2017

Fashi

Get all these great looks at Traditions Bridal & Formal!

Winter

ion

4059 Summerhill Square | Texarkana, TX | 903-792-0056 AbbyGaylesTexarkana | Gayle’s & Abby Gayle’s

Get the lastest accessories with our new shipment of

Join our VIP club for an instant

15% off!

Text GAYLES to 51660

4059 Summerhill Square | Texarkana, TX | 903-792-0056 AbbyGaylesTexarkana | Gayle’s & Abby Gayle’s ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 047

3

Fas

Winter

1

2

Get These Looks! 1. Abby Gayles 2. Abby Gayles 3. Labels 4. Abby Gayles 5. Gayles 6. Abby Gayles

4

5

6

2017

shion

1

Get These Looks! 1. Abby Gayles 2. Abby Gayles 3 Gayles 4. Abby Gayles 5. Labels 6. Labels

2

3

5

2017

Fashion

6

4

Winter Free Gift Wrapping

Some great brands to come see!

Perfect gifts for Christmas!

2801 Robin Lane • Texarkana, Texas • (903) 832-6951

Connect with us!

ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 051

2017

1

WinterFa

2

Get These Looks! 1. Abby Gayles 2. Abby Gayles 3 Racquet and Jog 4. Labels 5. Racquet and Jog 6. Labels 052 ALT Magazine | December 2017

3

ashion

5

6

4

ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 053

054 ALT Magazine | December 2017

The new generation of emergency care.

“I consider myself very fortunate to work with the best ER nurses, paramedics, CT techs and ER physicians in the area here at Texarkana Emergency Center. I truly believe that we offer a superior level of care in an upscale setting.

It’s very exciting and rewarding to be able to offer a better ER experience to our patients.”

Thom RT (R)(CT) Radiology “Texarkana Emergency Center is an awesome place to work. Here I am able to put my knowledge of x-ray and CT to use. I work with an amazing group of people.

We are all family here at TEC. Our number one priority is patient care! I am blessed to be part of this company.”

Kristen RT (R)(CT) Radiology Centrally located East of Central Mall 4646 Cowhorn Creek Texarkana, TX 75503 903.838.8000

TexarkanaEmergencyCenter.com

FIND US ON

ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 055

WinterFas

1

2

Get These Looks! 1. Racquet and Jog 2. ARacquet and Jog 3 Racquet and Jog 4. Labels 5. Racquet and Jog 6. Racquet and Jog

3

2017

shion 4

5

6

Fish Tales with Mike Brower Emily Post and River Etiquette Sometimes we, as fishermen, are so intent on getting to a spot that we forget our manners.

That can be a problem. Or we sometimes think we are doing a good thing when it is really not so good. Let’s look at a couple of examples of generally accepted “passing” manners on a small or medium size river like the Sulphur River or Little River.

When you pass someone who is fishing you have two choices. First, you can slow down to about 5 mph and go by or you can go by at a speed where you are on plane. Slowing down to 5 mph eliminates the wake that might cause a fishing boat to swamp, throw someone over the side, or damage their boat. Some well-intentioned folks think you can slow down to a speed just off plane and that is good enough, but that is really the worst thing to do because you have just increased your wake to a size that is more than running by on plane. Throw out that kind of wake and people will talk bad about you and may even get some payback later.

Secondly, you can stay on plane and pass by a fishing boat and you will not throw out much wake. This approach does not cause as much wake as you think it does, but may seem rude. So make sure you let the other boat know you see them by changing the speed (slowing down) to just on plane or slightly faster.

One other factor that can determine how you pass a fishing boat is how large or small is it and does it have children in it. If it’s a small boat, you really should slow down to no wake whereas a larger boat could handle the wake you put off. Whichever way you choose to pass, you should always remember that the guy you are going to pass paid good money for his boat, too, and would hate to see it damaged. JMHO

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

903.336.6139

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

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK FOR UPDATES AND SPECIALS!

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

058 ALT Magazine | December 2017

ooding G decorative concrete

We’re Back!

C U T F aQ ! all

s

oday or

UoTe

Also Doing General Repairs (Carpentry, Welding, etc..)

Custom Pergolas • Wood and Trex Decking • Custom Furniture Pressure Washing • Acid Stains and Scoring • Indoor/Outdoor Overlays General Repairs (Carpentry, Welding, etc..)

9 03 . 33 6 . 61 3 9 925 Brower Lane, Texarkana, TX 75501 info@legendaryshootingsports.com www.legendar ypaintball.com facebook.com/LegendaryShootingSports

BY A P P O I N T M E N T O N LY !

MINIMUM OF 6 PLAYERS!

903.277.0307 www.goodingdc.com

4 Playing Fields Fully Netted & Insured Gun Speed Tested Experienced Refs Shaded Picnic Area Private Parties Available ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 059

FINANCIAL FOCUS

W/DUSTIN STRINGER

STRINGER WEA LTH M A NAGEMENT R AY MOND JA MES & ASSOCI ATES, INC .

StringerWealthManagement.net

Loss of a Spouse/Family Member What is it?

When your spouse or a family member dies, you'll need to handle numerous financial and legal matters.

Even if you've always handled your family's finances, you may be overwhelmed by the number of matters you have to settle in the weeks and months following your loved one's death. While you can put off some of these tasks, others require immediate attention. After planning the funeral, you'll need to get organized, determine what procedures to follow to settle the estate and claim survivor's and death benefits, and find competent advice to help you through this difficult time.

Planning a funeral A funeral allows the family and friends of the deceased to both celebrate that person's life and mourn their death. Funerals often take into account religious and social traditions. According to Christian tradition, funerals often include a visitation of the body (also called a viewing or a wake) and a ceremony performed by a clergy member, family member, or friend. There may be readings, music, and words spoken about the deceased person's life. However, they are personal-not legal--events and should reflect your own preferences, as well as those of the deceased and other family members. Although you aren't required to do so, you may wish to hire a funeral director to help you, particularly if you are planning a funeral on short notice. He or she can help you coordinate the details and help you apply for death certificates and certain survivor's benefits.

Getting organized To settle your loved one's estate or apply for insurance proceeds or survivor's benefits, you'll need to have a 060 ALT Magazine | December 2017

number of documents. Locating these documents (and applying for certified copies of some of them) should be your first step in getting your finances organized. You'll also need to set up files to keep track of important documents and paperwork, keep a phone and mail list to record important calls and correspondence, and evaluate your short-term and long-term finances.

Settling an estate Your spouse or family member may have named you executor of his or her estate. If so, you'll need to find out what procedures to follow. Settling an estate means following legal and administrative procedures to make sure that all debts of the estate are paid and that all assets are distributed to the rightful persons. If you are named executor in a will or if you are appointed as the personal representative or administrator of an estate, you will be responsible for carrying out the terms of the will and settling the estate directly or with the help of an attorney.

Paying income and estate taxes You may have to file city, state, and federal tax returns, including Form 1040 (U.S. Individual Tax Return), Form 1041 (Fiduciary Income Tax Return), and, if the gross estate is large enough, Form 706 (U.S. Estate Tax Return). In addition, your state may impose a state death tax or an inheritance tax.

Filing a claim for insurance and/or survivor's and death benefits Life insurance benefits are not automatic; you have to file a claim for them. Ask your insurance agent to begin filing a life insurance claim. If you don't have an agent, contact the company directly.

Although most claims take only a few days to process, contacting an insurance agent should be one of the first things you do if you are the beneficiary of your spouse's or family member's policy. You should also contact your spouse or ex-spouse's employer as well as the Social Security Administration (SSA) to see if you are eligible to file a claim for survivor's or death benefits.

Tip: If your spouse was a federal, state, or local employee, then you are likely eligible for governmentsponsored survivor's benefits. In addition, children under age 18 or parents who are dependent upon their children for financial support are sometimes eligible for Social Security survivor's benefits.

Tip: Dependent children or dependent parents are sometimes eligible for benefits from employersponsored plans or Social Security.

Texarkana, Atlanta, & Surrounding Areas

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

Finding competent advice Getting expert advice is essential if you want to make good financial decisions. After all, you are probably doing many things for the first time, such as filing a life insurance claim or settling an estate. In fact, an attorney is one of the first people you might contact after your spouse or family member dies because this person can help you go over the will and start estate settlement procedures. Your funeral director can also be an excellent source of information and may help you get death certificate copies and apply for Social Security and veteran benefits, among other things. You may also wish to contact a financial professional, accountant, or tax advisor for help with your finances.

And don't overlook the help of other widows and widowers; having been through it before, they may be able to provide you with valuable information and support.

BIG!

Like us on Facebook @signgypsiesarklatex 903-392-9935 | Clyde and Beckie Lewis

Spend time with your family not the laundry room!

Merry Christmas and Blessed New Year!

As featured in WORTHWHILE, a quarterly periodical dedicated to serving the clients of Raymond James advisors and affiliated advisory firms. ©2017 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/ SIPC ©2017 Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC

ALT

y a d i HolCleaners

870.773.4072 ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 061

LOCAL HOT SPOTS We’re sharing your stories! Anything and everything from local events around town to what you’re sharing on Facebook. We would love to hear from you.

Trinity 25th Gala October 28, 2017

Kellea Baker, DeeAnn Starr and Jamie English

Jamie and Lane English

Brandon, Kim and Doug Breckweg

Eddie and Janet Hawkins and Wallace and Mary Edgar

Bella Fuqua, Kellea Whitney and Paul Fuqua, Baker Clara Ayres

Josh and Tommie Bishop

Deann Fellers, Reid Fellers, and Peggy Nolen

Bill and Karen Duffer and Karin Gillette

Joey Magana, Michael Cox, and Samuel and Angel Coston

Triston Cross, Sarah Powell, Kathleen Powell, Bryan Powell, Katelyn Powell, and Jacob Ferguson

Shedrick and Bethany Franklin, Sarah Luckey and Scott Luckey and Shane Jones

Ashley Sumner, Megan Daley, Jessica Jeanne, and Holly Latham

Lisa and Bill Saxby and Thad and Angie Todd

Russ and Holly Nelson, Skip Colvin, Stephanie Carver and Jamie MArtin

Jamie Martin and Karen Landsell

062 ALT Magazine | December 2017

LOCAL HOT SPOTS We’re sharing your stories! Anything and everything from local events around town to what you’re sharing on Facebook. We would love to hear from you.

Down Syndrome Awareness Walk 2017 October 28, 2017

Olivia's Tribe

Ian's Ions

Kaleb's Pride

Brady's Bunch

Bella Fuqua, Whitney Josiah's Hero's Fuqua, Clara Ayres

Mal's Pals

Montouge

Aria's Herd

Team Ivy Rose

Team Hudson

Ian's Ions

Triple Treat & Co

Sayne's Gang

Bryce Hamilton and Family

Teams Group Photo ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 063

LOCAL HOT SPOTS We’re sharing your stories! Anything and everything from local events around town to what you’re sharing on Facebook. We would love to hear from you.

Tapas & Wine November 9, 2017

Sann Terry, Myra Wells, Tess and Sophie Baker

Cranford and Kathy Graves and Janet Mosier

Susan and David Whitten and Sue Smith

Cole and Tiffany Hill and Josh and Candace Huddleston

Jimmy Anderson, Bella Fuqua, Myra Whitney Loving,Fuqua, SteveClara and Karen Ayres Snipper

Sue Smith and Karen Landsdell

Shelley Burkhalter, Phillip Burkhalter, Jason Parker and Doug Jordan

Larry and Cathy Mundy and Suzy and Robert Irwin

Yulin and Jerry Brewer

Susan Whitten, Debbie Brower, and Anita Carver

Richard and Sheila Sharp and Yulin and Jerry Brewer

Curt and Diane Green

Debbie and Mike Brower

064 ALT Magazine | December 2017

Cliff and Becky Robertson and Sue Chisum

Susan and David Whitten and Anita Carver

LOCAL HOT SPOTS We’re sharing your stories! Anything and everything from local events around town to what you’re sharing on Facebook. We would love to hear from you.

Micah Jewelers 10th Anniversary November 10, 2017

Amanda and Micah Harp

Mike and Debbie Brower

Mindy and Steve Day

Chris and Denise Miot

Bella Fuqua, Cindy Whitney and Joe Fuqua, FordClara Ayres

Bojo and Tiffany Morris

Randy and Angela Grissom

Sherry and Rick Griffin

Jerri and Joel Steger

Joe and Camille Dawn

Paula Harp and Micah Harp

Hannah and Adam Birchfield

Kendal and Ty Thompson

Amanda and Chad Miot

Leigh and Eric McCall ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 065

What's on the AGENDA?

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

December 1 - 2

Holiday Arts Market 10 am to 5 pm and 10 am to 4 pm Regional Arts Center 321 4th Street, Texarkana, TX 75501

December 2 - 3

Christmas Tour of Homes will be held from 4 pm – 8 pm both days.

Tickets are $25 and available at the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce located at 819 North State Line Avenue or call (903) 792-7191.

Tickets may also be purchased from any QHNA member. For more information contact Mary Warner at marynwendell@cableone.net

Sunday, December 3

A Night of Christmas Music 6 pm Live singing with many different singers.

First Assembly of God 3401 West 7th Street, Texarkana, TX, 75501 Free Admission

Friday, December 8

Dinner and Show; The Fumbly Bumbly Angels 7 pm Tickets sold in advance or at the door.

Adults tickets: $10.00 Children ages 4 - 11 $7.00 House of Prayer Holiness Church 519 Grim St. Texarkana, AR, 71854 Call Pastor Heath at 903-490-9712 or Amber 903-490-0853 for details or tickets.

December 8 - 9

Fourth Annual Drive Thru LIVE nativity 7 pm - 9 pm On Friday 6 pm - 9 pm On Saturday There will be over 100 people in costume bringing alive the story of Jesus' birth. You will be required to take a census & pass your gold coin to the Roman Soldiers in order to gain entrance into the City of Bethlehem. All of this is possible without leaving the comfort of your vehicle. This event is open to the public and FREE for everyone!

First Assembly of God (The old Lighthouse) 3401 West 7th Street Texarkana, TX 75501

066 ALT Magazine | December 2017

Saturday, December 16 Saturday, December 9

Drop-in Art Workshop (FREE) 1 pm to 4 pm Regional Arts Center 321 4th Street, Texarkana, TX 75501

Saturday, December 9

4th Annual Santa Sprint 8 am Join Texarkana Museums System as they "Adore to Restore" the Ace of Clubs House.

Come ready to run, stroll or walk in your Santa Suit, Elf Costume or Ugly Christmas Sweater and grab a pair of jingle bells.

For more details, call 903-793-4831.

Sign up through Facebook or at RunSignUp.com/SantaSprintTXK

Saturday, December 9

Jack Frost Cookies & Milk 2 pm - 3 pm Jack Frost "nips" by the Discovery Place Interactive Museum to share stories, cookies and milk with young and old! Have your pictures made with Jack, make your own cookie cutter to take home from our Tinkering Studio and enjoy a yummy tummy treat.

Thursday, December 14

Cirque Dreams Holidaze 7:30 pm Perot Theatre 221 Main Street, Texarkana, TX 75501

Thursday, December 14

Holiday Keepsake Art Journaling Workshop with Agnes Tirrito 6:30 pm Regional Arts Center 321 4th Street, Texarkana, TX 75501

A Christmas Spectacular presented by Holland Gerrald's Dance Company 6:30 pm All proceeds are donated to directly to the St. Michael's NICU. This year we are proud to present a special musical guest, Anna Petrillo, from New Jersey. A Raffle will also be held.

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online at Companydancetexarkana.com or at the door the night of performance.

For questions please contact Holland Gerrald at 903.277.0729 or companydancetexarkana@gmail.com

Thursday, December 21

Families can make a gingerbread house with their kids 6:30 pm The cost is only $10.00 The room will be decorated as candy land.

Hosted at First Assembly of God Lighthouse Church on 3401 West 7th Street Texarkana, TX 75501 must call 903-306-1978 to sign up last day to sign up will be December 10th

December 27 - 29

Winter Art Camp Jr. with Lindsay Foster Ages 5 - 7 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm December 27, 28, and 29 Cost: $65 (Registration required) Arts on Main 218 Main Street, Texarkana, TX 75501

December 27 - 29

Winter Art Camp Sr. with Megan Griffin Ages 8 - 12 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm Cost: $65 (Registration required) Arts on Main 218 Main Street, Texarkana, TX 75501

WANT TO ADD YOUR EVENT TO OUR MAGAZINE? SEND YOUR INFORMATION TO INFO@ALT-MAG.COM

Verizon Wireless- Mobile - October 2017

Russell Cellular - November 2017

Stork Vision - November 2017

Edgewood Manor - November 2017

Award Winning Photography

Newborns . Children . Weddings Family . Commercial . Headshots

debbiebrower.com 903.278.4444 / 903.334.9605

be DIFFERENT. ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 067

Local Rescues

Adopt, Don’t Shop!

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

Buster

Ellie

Lillian

Boxer Rescue of Texarkana Texarkana Animal League

Dottie

Kitties Pad Rescue

Passion For Pooches

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

Sophia - Arklatex

Cocker Spaniel Rescue

Sasha

Tracker

Texarkana Humane Society

Max

Muttley Crew

Poodle Patch Rescue Inc.

ANIMAL CARE & ADOPTION CENTER

TEXARKANA ANIMAL LEAGUE Facebook.com/ TexarkanaAnimalLeague TEXARKANA HUMANE SOCIETY TexarkanaHumaneSociety.org Facebook.com/ TexarkanaHumaneSocietyInc TEXARKANA REPTILE & AMPHIBIAN RESCUE Facebook.com/TkReptileRescue TOBY’S TALES (mostly wildlife) Facebook.com/Tobysname

Bruce Wayne

Texarkana Humane Society

Kindred

George

GG

Valkyrie

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.

Weasley

Sally

Pebbles

Mercury

Ebonee

Jackie

Adidas

Allie

Atari

Nova

068 ALT Magazine | December 2017

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.

WE’RE OPEN! M-F 11A-5P & SAT 11A-2P

I wish I may, I wish I might, find a home by Christmas night!

SPAY

NEUTER

ADOPT

5820 Richmond Rd. | Texarkana, TX 75503 | (877) 525-4825 | Fax: (870) 330-0057 ALT-Mag.com | December 2017 069 info@texarkanaanimalleague.org | TexarkanaAnimalLeague.org

FOUND AN AWESOME DEAL ONLINE? WE’LL HANDLE THE FFL TRANSFER FOR JUST $25!

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!

LEGE N D A R Y F irearms INDOOR SHOOTING RANGE

070 ALT Magazine | December 2017

903.336.6139 PRIVATE LESSONS 101 SLATON DR., NASH, TX NASH BUSINESS PARK OFF HWY 82.

LICENSE TO CARRY CLASS FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK RENTAL GUNS AVAILABLE FOR UPDATES AND SPECIALS!

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

We want you in a new home for the holidays!

Bill Spradlin Realtor 903-748-3186

Tracy Spradlin Broker 903-748-2477

Jan Williams Realtor 903-277-5771

Tara Whelchel Realtor 903-293-1429

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