December 2024

Texarkana Magazine

DECEMBER • 2024

December | 2024 | Volume 5 | Issue 12

66. LIFE 2024 Talk Tuesday Top Ten 70. TXK 411 Christmas Card Grammar

12. BUSINESS Ten Year-End Tax Tips 18. cover/CULTURE From David to Crowder

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48. LIFE The Gift of Fostering a Child 56. STYLE Red River Sanctuary

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74.

32. SPORTS Living in the Moment 42. ENTERTAINMENT Good Evening TXK

72. MONTHLY MIX Holiday Wear 74. TXK ROOTS Alla Bartoshchuk

56.

What is your favorite Crowder song?

CASSY MEISENHEIMER Currently loving “Somebody Prayed” from his newest album, The Exile .

TERRI SANDEFUR “Carol of the Bells”

ALANA MOREL “Come As You Are”

KARA HUMPHREY “Grave Robber” is a new favorite, and I love “All My Hope.” But I could pick ten more that would also be my favorite.

MATT CORNELIUS Kara, you beat me to it! “Grave Robber” usually floats to the top of my list.

LEAH ORR I love any Christmas song!

BRITT EARNEST “God Really Loves Us”

BRITTANY ROBLES “Lift Your Head Weary Sinner”

SCAN HERE TO LISTEN TO OUR DAVID CROWDER FAVES PLAYLIST ON SPOTIFY

BAILEY GRAVITT “Because He Lives”

TERRI GRAVITT “How He Loves”

TAMMY LUMMUS “Good God Almighty”

(I love David and his family. His parents actually helped me move one time— sweetest people ever!)

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txkmag.com letstalk@txkmag.com 903-949-6886 OFFICE 911 North Bishop Street Building C • Suite 102 Wake Village, Texas 75501 MAIL 2801 Richmond Road #38 Texarkana, Texas 75503

We are especially excited, this month, to share a true seasonal highlight, our cover story, featuring the incredibly talented David Crowder. Crowder’s journey from Texarkana to the global stage is inspiring. Known for his one-of-a-kind sound, Crowder has become a BIG DEAL worldwide! But for those of us from his hometown, he is more than a music icon— he is just one of us. On Crowder’s newest album, he has a song called “Somebody Prayed.” The lyrics resonate deeply with me personally as a reminder that each of us has been lifted up by the prayers, hopes, and support of others. As I reflect on my journey, it’s clear to me I’m here today because somebody prayed for me. That is part of the magic of this season, knowing we are not on this path alone. Even when the holiday to-do list feels impossible, there are people—seen and unseen—carrying us forward with helping hands or folded ones. Crowder reminds us through his music that life isn’t just about success. It is about honoring where you come from, staying true to yourself, and bringing something authentic to the table—even if, in this season, that table is covered in a mess of wrapping paper and holiday cards. Here’s to David Crowder, a Texarkana original whose music continues to inspire and uplift. We are thrilled to have him on our cover this month, adding a bit of soulful magic to this beautiful season. This December, as you navigate your own mix of holiday hustle and peaceful moments please remember strength comes from community, love, and a few heartfelt prayers.

Publisher CARDINAL PUBLISHING Staff CASSY MEISENHEIMER cassy@txkmag.com TERRI SANDEFUR terri@txkmag.com

ALANA MOREL alana@txkmag.com KARA HUMPHREY kara@txkmag.com LEAH ORR leah@txkmag.com BRITT EARNEST britt@txkmag.com BRITTANY ROBLES brittany@txkmag.com MATT CORNELIUS matt@txkmag.com

D ecember brings out the best in generosity, through gifts, charity, and acts of kindness. It is a month that inspires us to focus on others and embrace the joy of the season. Amid the busyness of the holiday chaos—shopping lists, kid’s activities, and the mad dash for last-minute gifts—this issue gave us the opportunity to share the story of Mrs. Pat Freeman. She and her ever-expanding family exemplified

Local Sources CLARE ANGIER JOHN LUKE ANGIER MARY CAROLINE ANGIER PHILIP ANGIER

JOE REGAN LESLIE REID

CRAFTED IN TEXARKANA. EMPLOYEE OWNED AND LOCALLY SOURCED.

the spirit of Christmas making generosity and kindness a lifestyle that went way beyond December. We also have a special sports story that is sure to make you smile, year-end tax tips, helpful hints to curate the perfect holiday party outfit and create well- written Christmas cards, and a home style feature that can only be described as dreamy.

#txkmag

Texarkana Magazine is a multimedia publication showcasing the Texarkana area and is designed and published by Cardinal Publishing, LLC. Articles in Texarkana Magazine should not be considered specific advice, as individual circumstances vary. Ideaology, products, and services promoted in the publication are not necessarily endorsed by Texarkana Magazine .

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

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YEAR-END TAX TIPS SPONSORED BY SARAH BERRY, CPA, PLLC As the year winds down, it is the perfect time to implement strategic financial moves that could significantly reduce your tax bill. Whether you are an individual taxpayer or a small business owner, taking steps now can lead to major savings in April. Here are ten recommended, actionable tax tips to help you maximize deductions, minimize liabilities, and ease the burden of tax season.

education expenses. For example, a $5,000 contribution might offer a state income tax deduction where applicable. To learn more, you can explore a state-by-state guide to 529 tax benefits on savingforcollege.com or contact a local financial advisor for personalized guidance. 5. Claiming energy tax credits can be a great way to save if you have made energy-efficient home improvements this year. Upgrades like installing solar panels, energy-efficient windows, or new insulation may qualify for federal tax credits. For instance, installing solar panels in 2024 could result in a 30% federal tax credit on the installation cost, potentially saving thousands. To explore local incentives or rebates, check with your state or local energy provider, and for details on federal credits, visit energy.gov . 6. Self-employed individuals and small business owners can reduce their taxable income by prepaying necessary business expenses before year-end, such as office supplies, advertising costs, or software subscriptions. For example, prepaying $3,000 in expenses could result in $720 in tax savings if you are in the 24% tax bracket. To find additional guidance or local resources for small businesses, consider consulting a tax advisor or small business development center, and refer to IRS Publication 535 for details on deductible expenses. 7. Maximizing contributions to a Health Savings Account (HSA) can provide triple tax benefits—contributions are tax-deductible, account growth is tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free. For example, if you contribute $3,850 as an individual, you could reduce your taxable income by that amount, potentially saving you hundreds in taxes. For local guidance on HSAs, reach

1. Maximizing contributions to retirement accounts like a 401(k), IRA, or, for the self-employed, a SEP (Simplified Employee Pension) IRA or Solo 401(k), is an effective way to lower taxable income and build financial security for the future. For instance, if you are in the 24% tax bracket, contributing $10,000 to a retirement plan could yield $2,400 in tax savings. For specific 2024 contribution limits and details on tax benefits, visit IRS.gov . 2. Consider tax-loss harvesting as a strategy to offset capital gains with capital losses, which can help reduce your taxable income if your portfolio performed well this year. This involves selling investments at a loss to counterbalance gains. For example, if you sold stock A for a $5,000 gain, you could sell stock B for a $5,000 loss to offset the gain, potentially saving you hundreds in taxes. For detailed guidance on implementing this strategy, consider consulting local financial advisors or exploring resources offered by investment firms. 3. Optimizing charitable contributions by making donations to qualified charities before year-end can help you benefit from a tax deduction while supporting meaningful causes. Both cash and non-cash contributions are eligible, and these deductions can add up. For example, a $500 cash donation to a qualified charity could provide $120 in tax savings if you are in the 24% tax bracket. To find qualified charities, consider reaching out to local nonprofit

organizations or community foundations, and refer to IRS guidelines for specific rules on charitable deductions. ( Scan the QR code to view the “2024 Giving Guide” for more information on eligible local nonprofits. )

out to a financial advisor or local bank offering HSA accounts, and consult IRS Publication 969 for current contribution limits and details on qualified expenses.

4. If you are saving for education, consider making contributions to a 529 Plan before year-end, as it could provide state tax benefits in eligible states. These accounts grow tax-free as long as the funds are used for qualified

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small business finances and complex investments. A local tax expert can offer personalized insights, identify unique tax-saving opportunities, and guide you through year-end planning to maximize your savings. It is essential to stay informed about recent tax law changes, as updates for 2024 may impact your financial strategies. For instance, retirement contribution limits for 401(k) and IRA accounts have been adjusted, so make sure you’re aware of the new caps. Additionally, energy tax credits have been expanded to cover more categories of home improvements, providing greater incentives for energy- efficient upgrades. For specific guidance on how these changes may affect you, consider reaching out to a local tax advisor, and visit IRS.gov for the latest updates and resources. Taking these year-end tax actions can help maximize your savings, reduce your taxable income, and make tax season far less stressful. From retirement contributions to charitable donations, there are ample opportunities to keep more of your hard-earned money. Consult with a tax professional to tailor these strategies to your situation and start the new year with financial confidence.

8. If you have had substantial medical expenses this year, you may be eligible to deduct out-of-pocket costs that exceed a specific percentage of your adjusted gross income (AGI). For instance, if you incurred $10,000 in medical expenses and have an AGI of $50,000, you could deduct expenses above $3,750, resulting in a $6,250 deduction. For a more personalized assessment, consider consulting a local tax advisor who is familiar with medical expense deductions, and refer to IRS guidelines, including Publication 502, for detailed information on eligible expenses. 9. If you expect to be in a lower tax bracket next year, consider deferring year-end income—such as a bonus or a client payment—until January. For example, postponing a $5,000 bonus from December to January could help you stay in a lower tax bracket, potentially saving you hundreds in taxes. For personalized advice on how income deferral may

How the Progressive Tax System Works

In this system, each portion of your income is taxed at the corresponding rate, not your entire income. For example, if you are a single filer earning $120,000, your income would be taxed as follows: • The first $11,000 is taxed at 10%. • The amount from $11,001 to $44,725 is taxed at 12%. • The amount from $44,726 to $100,525 is taxed at 22%. • The portion from $100,526 to $120,000 is taxed at 24%. This system ensures that only the income within each range is taxed at that rate, rather than your total income being taxed at the highest rate for which you qualify. For further details and specific calculations, refer to IRS.gov for updates on federal income tax rates and brackets or speak with a local tax advisor.

impact your tax situation, reach out to a local tax professional.

10. Partnering with a local tax

professional can provide significant advantages, especially when dealing with intricate tax laws or managing

Here’s a breakdown of the U.S. federal income tax brackets for 2024, which use a progressive tax system. This system means that different portions of your income are taxed at different rates. Here are the tax brackets and what they mean for each filing status. 2024 TAX BRACKETS BY FILING STATUS TAX RATE SINGLE FILERS MARRIED FILING JOINTLY MARRIED FILING SEPARATELY HEAD OF HOUSEHOLD 10% $0 to $11,000 $0 to $22,000 $0 to $11,000 $0 to $15,700 12% $11,001 to $44,725 $22,001 to $89,450 $11,001 to $44,725 $15,701 to $59,850 22% $44,726 to $100,525 $89,451 to $201,050 $44,726 to $100,525 $59,851 to $100,500 24% $100,526 to $191,950 $201,051 to $383,900 $100,526 to $191,950 $100,501 to $191,950 32% $191,951 to $418,850 $383,901 to $487,850 $191,951 to $243,775 $191,951 to $418,850 35% $418,851 to $628,300 $487,851 to $628,300 $243,776 to $314,150 $418,851 to $628,300 37% Over $628,300 Over $628,300 Over $314,150 Over $628,300 This article provides general information about year-end tax strategies and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Tax laws can be complex and vary based on individual circumstances, and recent changes in tax regulations may impact these strategies. For personalized advice tailored to your specific situation, please consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor. The information provided is accurate as of 2024, but we recommend consulting official IRS publicataions or a local tax expert for the latest updates. Sarah Berry, CPA, PLLC and Texarkana Magazine are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information in this article.

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“I grew up out where the ditches were. You could find a culvert and tie bacon on a string and catch crawdads. We had horses and cows. On Saturdays my brother and I would work with my dad on rental properties. I helped roof my house. I rode my bike to school and had a chain to lock it to the bike rack.” “We lived on Sleepy Hollow and there was a patch of woods behind it that all of us kids thought we owned. When we first moved there, I met three guys up in a treehouse and they told me they’d teach me how to be a ninja. (I never became a ninja.)” “My next-door neighbor was Brad Johnson and one of the best nights of my life was sleeping in a tent in his backyard and hearing Bryan Adams “Summer of ’69” with a fire burning that we made. It was awesome. We were living. There were so many friends that were in the neighborhood, and if we weren’t in the woods shooting BB guns or throwing dirt clods, we were in someone’s front yard playing football until whoever owned the football got mad and took their Nerf ball home, game over.”

FROM DAVID TO CROWDER BY KARA HUMPHREY PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVID CROWDER A bove is a familiar story with similarities to which most kids who grew up in this area during the 80s and 90s can relate—a childhood filled with the simple, charming things that make Texarkana’s Generation X long for the good ol’ days. But this particular story belongs to five-time Grammy nominated, 13-time Dove Award-winning artist, David Crowder. His life beyond these backwoods and crawdad holes has taken twists and turns he never expected, and his impact and career have touched countless fans worldwide.

Trucker hats and a beard that rivals those of ZZ Top members are his trademarks. However, his musical style is a little harder to pin down. From album to album, his music shifts and evolves, surprising listeners and drawing in people with a variety of preferences.

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The Challengers soccer team, with David Crowder standing fourth from the left in the back row and his dad, Coach Dan Crowder, on the far right

David Crowder with the Wildcats T-ball team, co- champions of the Pleasant Grove T-ball league with a 4-1 record

David Crowder in the sixth grade

crate of chocolate milk, and then swing by Shipley’s to get donuts before making the route to pick up folks who didn’t have a ride to church. That bus was WILD. I thought my dad was the coolest dude on the planet.” It is early childhood memories like these that firmly establish David’s parents, Marian and Dan Crowder, as the greatest influences of his life. “They’re amazing,” David said. “They were very much involved and active in all my extracurricular [activities]. Dad was our soccer coach. Our team was The Challengers. Our rivals were The Razorbacks. I think we won more than they did. In sixth grade, I got interested in running. The first road race I ran, Run for Hearts, started at Spring Lake Park and went to Northridge Country Club and back. On Saturdays, Mom would drive me to road races all over the Ark-La-Tex, the Chariots of Fire cassette on blast, obviously.” David met his wife Toni when he was a senior at Pleasant Grove High School. It may be rare to find true love at such a young age, but sometimes it really is love at first sight. “I was sitting in Mrs. Davis’ food and nutrition class (that was a legit class), and the door to the

Simple Wikipedia and Google searches reveal the genre-busting labels of his work as “Christian rock,” “worship,” “bluegrass,” “alternative,” “folktronica,” and “swamp-pop.” The thing that is consistent, though, is the message. “I feel like I’m redundant in my lyricism,” he said. “I keep singing, over and over—no one is too far gone, grace is expansive, and the gospel is not about making bad people good, it’s about making dead people alive.” So much has been written about Crowder, and his career is well known. But what about David? Who was that guy? How did he become the artist he is today from the little boy and teenager who left Texarkana headed for Baylor University where his seemingly providential career began? “Church was a huge part of social life,” he said. “We went to First Baptist Church (FBC) way back in the early days when it was downtown. The best Sundays were the ones we hit up Bryce’s Cafeteria after. My eyes were always bigger than my stomach.” “My dad helped with the bus ministry at the church. So, we’d be up way too early to drive the bus first to Borden’s to pick up a

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Every breath is a gift and I think gratitude is not to be underestimated. ” —Crowder

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I was horrible but he would let me fail in front of my peers on the weekly,” David said. “David was a joy to have in our youth group at FBC,” said Carson. “He was in the youth band, on keyboard. He was kind to everybody and respected as a Christian. We loved his family. They were huge supporters of our youth ministry. When he graduated from high school, he traveled with me for a couple of summers doing camps. He really began to grow as a musician. He went off to Baylor, and

classroom was open. This girl walked by wearing a green sweater and a blue-jean mini skirt and that was it.” David recalls. “I asked the guy sitting next to me, ‘Who is that?’ He told me, ‘Toni Brine.’ Turns out, one of my best friends, Bryan Poe, was dating one of her best friends, Robin Cope. There was a Valentine’s banquet at the church, and I worked up the nerve to ask her to go. I borrowed a friend’s car because I didn’t have one. It was a Toyota Celica, and I felt so cool picking her up in it. I guess it worked because we had a

second date. That was a hayride to a campfire, and we kissed. It was awesome.” David unknowingly began his music career way back in the early days with the piano lessons his mother insisted he take. “I grew up playing piano, mom taking me to lessons. I hated it.” But he admits, “Mom always knows best.” It wasn’t until college David began learning to play the guitar. “Dave Matthews Band, Pearl Jam, Widespread Panic—these were the college type bands popping. It was a great time to be learning how to play guitar. I

God really blessed his talents. We have been so proud of the success he has had. I drop his name everywhere I go.” Carson bragged. “I am amazed every time he comes out with a new record or every time we get to hear him live. He is our favorite artist for sure. So proud of him and Toni. She deserves a lot of credit for his success.” Though obvious now to his fans, that success came as a total surprise to David. There is a scripture in Proverbs 16:9 that says, “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” David’s life seems

Give yourself fully to where you are right now. You bloom where you’re planted, so sink roots in, take from the soil, give it right back, and hopefully flourish. ”

—Crowder

still consider my primary instrument piano (thanks mom), but I now poke at anything with strings. If you can string it up, I’ll give it a go.” With David’s developing musical prowess, what better place to debut his skills than to the youth group of FBC? They became the perfect first audience for this someday star who would eventually play for thousands. “I have always loved music, but it was our youth director at FBC, Dan Carson, who gave me an outlet for it.

to be a picture-perfect example of this truth playing out. What an incredible thing it is when a person stumbles upon a path that has been divinely cleared. “I never considered [music] as a real career option,” he said, “nor would anyone else who heard me back then. What I wanted to do was work for my dad. He had Dan Crowder Insurance Agency right on Richmond Road. As previously stated, I thought

Toni and David Crowder at the Pleasant Grove prom in 1990

David and Toni Crowder on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards

David and Toni Crowder in Italy at Lake Como

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No one is too far gone, grace is expansive, and the gospel is not about making bad people good, it’s about making dead people alive. ” —Crowder

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he was the coolest. I was giving car quotes at age 11.” “My junior year of college, at Baylor University, a friend of mine started a church and asked me to help with the music.” Answering that call marked David’s first steps toward becoming Crowder. “I got into this because I wanted to be useful. It’s that simple. I do not think of myself as an artist or musician, I think of myself as

David Crowder, as a newborn, gazes up at his dad, dressed as Santa.

useful and helpful. You wouldn’t ask me to bring the casserole dish on Wednesday nights, but I can help with the music on a Sunday morning.” And as simple as it sounds, that’s exactly what happened. “At some point I called home and said, ‘Dad, looks like it’ll be a while.’ He’s since sold the business, so I have nothing to fall back on.” Today, Crowder’s accomplishments include a long list of successful albums, impressive awards,

What is your favorite song that you have written and/or recorded?

SCAN HERE TO LISTEN TO MILK & COOKIES

“Stars”—that’s the name of the song. I wrote it on the front porch swing of our house in Waco, Texas. It’s one of those songs that just falls out altogether. It was a moment, and it still means a lot to me. Do you have a dream venue where you would like to play? The Sphere. I can’t afford it. Besides your music, what are the top three most listened to songs on your daily playlist? I just looked… “Birds of a Feather” by Billie Eilish— or anything by Post Malone or Brandon Lake, apparently. If you had to choose a theme song for your life, what would it be? “Eye of the Tiger” or “Happy Birthday”—that’s the only song that comes with cake. Are there any other instruments besides the ones you already play that you would still like to learn? Looking back, I remember that in elementary school, you could take an elective class that was band. They asked, “What instrument do you want to play?” I said trombone because I didn’t understand how it worked. I thought it was a sword-swallowing trick—it looked like magic. Eventually, I got first chair. I was terrible. If there is an instrument I would still like to learn, it would be the trombone because it didn’t stick. If you were not a singer/songwriter, what else can you imagine yourself doing? Insurance agent Do you have a favorite scripture from the Bible or another motto you live by? Luke 24:42

world tours, sold-out first-class venues, and a happy marriage to his high school sweetheart, Toni. That boy who left Texarkana as David became Crowder by the hand of God, and the depths and scope of his ministry may still be untapped. But his advice remains simple—“Give yourself fully to where you are right now. You bloom where you’re planted, so sink roots in, take from the soil, give it right back, and hopefully flourish. Wherever you are, whoever is in front

of you, love well and appreciate it. It’s trite to say, but every breath is a gift and I think gratitude is not to be underestimated.”

SCAN HERE TO LISTEN TO THE EXILE

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Members of the All Abilities basketball team (L-R) Jonathan Richards, Jamell Foate, Ron Seay, Wesley Canipe, and Corey Williams (not pictured, Cory Gray and Eddie Webb)

T he All Abilities basketball team (also known as The Sensational Seven) is comprised of seven men who have been labeled cognitively and physically impaired their entire lives. Although the inconspicuous group lives under the watchful care of local organizations like Opportunities, Inc. and Texarkana Resources, they are remarkably independent. They have their own housing, go to their jobs daily, and make all their own decisions with the help of life coaches. These guys had mostly gone unseen and unheard. TALK TUESDAY IN PRINT LIVING IN THE MOMENT BY TAMMY LUMMUS

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That is, until a few hometown volunteers decided to take the world’s perception of disabled and flip it on its end through the game of basketball. Whitni Allen, owner of Texarkana’s Heat It Up, was juggling the demands of family life and business when Jennifer Lewis, CEO of Texarkana Resources, stopped by to pick up a meal. In their conversation, Lewis talked of her work with people with disabilities, sparking an idea for Allen. Remembering her love for high school basketball, she wanted to give these men the same sense of excitement and competition she once enjoyed. Allen reached out to Texarkana Resources and Opportunities, and soon, a seven-man team was assembled. All they needed then was a coach, and Allen knew just the person. Jason Boston, a seasoned coach with an excellent reputation, was the perfect fit. The guy was born to coach. It runs in his family. His dad is a basketball coach, his brother is a basketball coach, and he is the happiest on a gym floor teaching kids how to dribble, shoot, and pass. Boston lives and breathes the game of basketball. He has made it his life’s mission to infuse his love into a very football-minded part of the world. To proceed with that mission, he founded Buckets with Boston, a basketball training program that teaches kids how to handle the ball and learn the game using correct form and techniques. It was through Buckets with Boston that he was training Allen’s daughter. In addition, Allen was once a member of the Texas High girls’ basketball team, which was coached by the one and only Jason Boston. Once All Abilities was an established team and had a coach, the only problem left to tackle was getting organized. Everything came together in such a rush, there was no time to practice before their first game in Foreman, Arkansas. The guys had yet to meet their new coach. Opportunities bussed the team to the gym in Foreman, and Coach Boston showed up separately. The team immediately accepted Boston as their leader. “There were no judgments on their part. They focused. They didn’t argue with me or have bad attitudes. They just played with everything they had,” he said.

All Abilities basketball coaches Whitni Allen and Jason Boston at the Texarkana Recreation Center.

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Boston encouraged his team in dribbling and shooting. He coached them on rebounding both offensively and defensively. “They did exactly what I told them to do and were happy to do it,” Coach Boston said proudly. “These guys played their hearts out, and I knew we had something special going on.” The brand new team won their first game that day but lost the second as they made the tying basket right after the buzzer sounded. It didn’t matter, though. The bar was set. Running with the momentum from the win in Foreman, practices began. Most athletes will admit they prefer competition over practice and training, but not the Sensational Seven. They committed all they had to their strength training regimen with Allen twice a week. She designed exercises to enhance the team’s daily life skills while fostering socialization through teamwork and competition. The guys also reveled in their basketball practices at the Texarkana Boys and Girls Club. Despite the challenges they face, their love for the game of basketball kept their focus sharp and recall of skills learned in practice even sharper. “It was simply amazing,” Boston said with a smile. The team members gave their all in practice because they had one goal in mind—the Special Olympics Arkansas Tournament of Champions. Total Medical Supply (TMS) of Texarkana heard about the All Abilities team and their quest for the Arkansas Championship. They were so impressed that they sponsored the team and bought them uniforms to wear at the state tournament. Due, in part, to local support, the All Abilities team was hyped as they headed to Benton, Arkansas, to compete for the championship. Once arriving in Benton, the team discovered they weren’t alone in their enthusiasm. 47 other teams had entered the tournament. Not letting intimidation become a factor, the team easily won their first divisional game that day. That set them up for bracket play the next day. With their first win under their belts, the team attended the opening ceremony coordinated by the Special Olympics Committee, followed by a dance. Coach Boston and Allen both laugh and agree the Sensational Seven poured as much effort

Jamell Foate draws plays on the gym floor during a timeout, with his teammates nodding in agreement.

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into dancing as they did into basketball. It was an expression of happiness for them, no matter who was watching. The next day, bracket play in the Special Olympics Tournament of Champions began, and the Texarkana team was on fire. They dribbled, passed, shot, and rebounded the ball, just like their coaches had shown them in practice. According to Coach Boston, Eddie Webb made attempts at three pointers from crazy places on the court that would have impressed Steph Curry. During a timeout, the tallest player on the team, Jamell Foate, quickly designed and drew out plays on the floor with all his teammates nodding their heads in agreement. The coaches admit they still have no idea what kinds of plays Foate was drawing or what kind of basketball voodoo the guys were consenting to, but it worked. The Texarkana All Abilities basketball team won third place in the Special Olympics Tournament of Champions. The Sensational Seven and their coaches, local sponsors, and family members met at the We Are Washington Community Development Center to celebrate their win. Each athlete received an individual award.

The Sensational Seven won third place at the Special Olympics Tournament of Champions in Arkansas.

• DYNAMIC DRIBBLER—Wesley Canipe • LOUD AND PROUD—Jonathan Richards

• INTENSE DEFENSE —Cory Gray • AWESOME OFFENSE —Ron Seay • SUPER CELEBRATIONS—Eddie Webb • ROUGH AND TOUGH REBOUNDER—Jamell Foate • HURRICANE HUSTLER—Corey Williams Total Medical Supply also bought each team member brand- new Nike basketball shoes. The guys were on top of the world. The All Abilities basketball team made lasting memories in the Tournament of Champions. That is what the team members will keep forever, but it’s the coaches, helpers, and sponsors who learned the real lessons. “I went into this just wanting these guys to have their own space and their own moment in time,” said Allen, “but they brought the joy of basketball back to me.” When Boston spoke at the awards ceremony, he said, “I had several coaches come up to me during the tournament and tell me how much they enjoyed watching my team play. That’s a big compliment, but this is not my team. This is our team. I’m a coach and a friend to all of you guys.”

The award ceremony revealed the closest thing to Heaven on Earth—no haughty judgments, no differences in skin color, no opposing political opinions, and no contrasting social classes. These men don’t wake up in bad moods or worry about tomorrow. When it comes to living in the moment, they are rock stars and express their happiness regardless of what others think. By reciting the Special Olympics Athlete Oath aloud, these guys experience joy in its purest form. “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” This team is seven guys, whom the world considers “different,” reaping their well-deserved benefits. Texarkana All Abilities Basketball would like to recognize Felisha Johnson and Travon May for their unwavering support of the team. Thank you to Arca Continental Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages for donating swag bags. Also, a big shout out to Madeline Haak, Jasmine Bruce Cree, Reggie Myrks, Megan Palowski, and Total Medical Supply for all their generous contributions.

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GOOD EVENING TXK COLUMN BY BAILEY GRAVITT

D ecember is an odd month for a birthday. It’s a month all about holiday cheer, tangled lights, sugar highs, and, for me, a hearty dose of introspection. As I stood behind my “Happy Birthday, Jesus” sign (generously donated by SignMe Up), I could not help but laugh at how perfectly this little display sums up the shared celebration between me and, well, Jesus. Yes, I share a birthday month with Jesus. The Bible doesn’t mention the exact date, but December 25 has become the day the world has chosen to celebrate the birth of Christ. Whether or not it was actually December 25 does not really matter to me, because I believe it is the spirit behind every decision and action we take that matters. The important question should always be, what is the intention of our heart? That is what I feel Jesus cares about. Christmas isn’t about the date. It is about the love we give and the gratitude we feel. December is a month of reflection, a time to sit back and contemplate all that has happened over the past year. For me, my birthday is like a gift wrapped up under the Christmas tree with a nice, neat, pretty bow on top—a culmination of another trip around the sun, another year I’ve been blessed on this earth. As I blow out the candles on the blueberry muffins my mom makes for me every year on the 18th of December (our little birthday tradition), I realize I’m not just celebrating another year of my life. I am celebrating the many blessings that have come with it—a career in social media management, cherished family and friends, the talents God has bestowed upon me, and the opportunity to spread joy through these monthly articles in Texarkana Magazine , of course! Thinking over this season and my journey thus far, I find such a profound sense of peace and gratitude for Jesus’ journey, too. No matter his birth date, Jesus knew struggle, He knew perseverance, and He knew what it meant to be misunderstood. Knowing Jesus

lived a sinless life, despite experiencing every temptation, and subsequently took on the weight of the world so we could be redeemed, is humbling and awe-inspiring. And each Christmas, I feel an especially deep connection with that story. Recently, I had a deep conversation with my friend Kara Humphrey. She shared something that I’ll carry for the rest of my days—“The point of everything we do isn’t always about what we can get from the experience. Sometimes it’s just about what we can give or do for someone else.” Christmas, like Kara said, is a season for giving. When we check our attitude, it becomes a privilege to give of ourselves with intention, with love, and with joy. When I look at my own life, I can clearly see the treasure trove of “gifts” I’ve been given that did not come in boxes or bags. It is easy to let birthdays inflate our egos. We are showered with attention, love, and maybe indulge in a little too much partying. But as much as I love my birthday, I hope that as I celebrate, I remember to stand in awe and worship a God who is bigger than any gift and greater than any fleeting birthday wish. Yes, I want to be loved. And yes, I want to love back with everything I have got. But more than that, I want to be part of something that points beyond myself to a love so profound and so limitless that it reshapes my life year after year. To me, that is what Christmas does. It points me back to Jesus, reminding me He is making all things new, including me, in His time. The magic of Christmas can fade a little as we grow older and sometimes gives way to practicality, or even the pressures of adulthood. Boooorriingggg! Yet, even amid the trials and tribulations that each year brings, I remain so grateful for the reminder that despite my weaknesses and all my many mistakes, I am still loved deeply and fully. That doesn’t negate the seriousness of my sin in God’s eyes, but I am constantly and consistently being drawn to

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the Creator of the entire universe despite my flaws, and that’s a miracle only Jesus could pull off. TAKE THAT SANTA! For my birthday this year, the only kinds of gifts I want are the warmth of unconditional love, relationships that strengthen and uplift me, and laughter that spills over and fills every hardened or bitter crevice of my heart. The world tends to breed that malice in us sometimes as we grow up–contempt where there should be unrelenting affection, hostility where there should be generosity, or resentment where there should be unbridled forgiveness. Do not allow the world to harden your heart. Open yourself up to joy. Above all, I am grateful for December—a time to celebrate, to laugh, to reflect, and to give thanks. For me, the joy of Christmas and my birthday won’t be found in presents or parties, but in the moments of connection and reflection. This holiday season, let’s celebrate with joy, with gratitude, and with hearts full of awe. Merry Christmas, friends, and a very happy birthday to Jesus… and Bailey!

LIVE MUSIC December 5 Texarkana Regional Chorale Presents Magnificat First Presbyterian Church 12 pm December 7 Andrew Peterson presents Behold the Lamb of God Trinity Baptist Church 7 pm

December 12 Caleb Young The Duke Bar & Grill 7:30 pm December 14 Joey Green Whiskey River Country 8 pm December 15 Christmas at the Perot Historic Perot Theatre 4 pm

December 20 CW & Twenty Hands High Whiskey River Country 5 pm December 20 Lane Bricker Redbone Magic Brewing 7 pm December 21 Jesse Keith Whitley with Caden Wilson Whiskey River

Country 9:30 pm

LOCAL EVENTS December 2 Main Street Texarkana Christmas Parade Downtown Texarkana 7 pm December 4, 11, & 18 Free Wednesday Yoga Southwest Center

December 6 & 7 Holiday Arts Market Texarkana Regional Arts Center Friday 10 am-5 pm & Saturday 10 am-4 pm December 6 & 7 A Christmas Stroll Shopping, Caroling, Carriage Rides, and Live Music Downtown Texarkana December 6 & 7 Red River Hoopfest Texas High School December 6, 7, & 8 Community Ballet of Texarkana presents The Nutcracker Historic Perot Theatre

December 7 Pol Care Luncheon 1 Legion Drive Texarkana, Arkansas 10 am-1 pm December 12 Collage Clinic with Kay Thomas Texarkana Regional Arts Center 6-8 pm December 13 Photos with Santa Farmers Bank & Trust 2900 St. Michael Drive 3-5 pm December 13 Downtown Live! Downtown Texarkana 6-9 pm

December 13 & 14 38th Annual Christmas & Candlelight Historic Washington State Park 8 am-8 pm December 14 We Are Washington Jingle Jog 5k Run & Fun Walk Spring Lake Park 8 am-noon December 14 Christmas Downtown Merchants, Mr. & Mrs. Claus, Petting

December 15 Tough Kookie Foundation Cancer Support Group Meeting Oak Street Baptist Church 4 pm December 21 Christmas on Main Historic Perot Theatre 10 am-7 pm December 31 NYE Time Travel Party 1923 Banana Club 7 pm-1 am

5:30-6:30 pm December 5 Bramlett, Beans, & Cornbread Texarkana Texas Convention Center 11 am-1 pm

Zoo, & More 11 am-3 pm

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THE GIFT OF FOSTERING

A CHILD BY TERRI GRAVITT

When most people think of family, they think of relatives connected by blood, a shared last name, or years of memories that trace back to the beginning. But for Pat Freeman, family has a far deeper meaning.

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“It was like getting ready for a new family member. We would go shopping because most children arrived with little to nothing. Our own kids would be just as excited, waiting eagerly to meet their new sibling.” Over the years, the family grew as they adopted some of the children, turning what began as a family of three into a family of 11. Each addition taught Freeman’s biological children compassion, understanding, and the power of acceptance. “Fostering taught us how powerful stability, kindness, and patience can be for a child,” she says. “When they lived with us, they were family through all the ups and downs.” Angela Coston, executive director of For The Sake of One, a local Texarkana organization that supports families who foster children in our area, shared how vital foster families like the Freemans are. “At any given time here in Texarkana, we have anywhere from 200 to 300 kids in care across Miller, Bowie, Little River, and Cass counties,” Coston explains. “We have about 20 open foster homes in those counties currently. We support foster, kinship, and adoptive families. We provide support through Parents’ Night Out to give foster parents a three-hour break. We provide monthly support groups and physical supplies in our Blessing Boutique.” Coston emphasizes that fostering is a challenging journey. “I would tell someone to pray about becoming a foster parent and talk to all members of their family. Fostering affects the entire family, and everyone needs to be on board. We have a huge need in our area and definitely need more foster parents, but I would not say that everyone should foster because it is a hard job.” For The Sake of One’s mission is to share God’s love with local children and families before and after foster care by walking alongside them on their healing journeys. As Coston sees it, fostering isn’t just a service—it’s a calling. The Freemans didn’t escape the challenges of fostering. Their experience was not without its challenges. Regarding discipline, they were a family who believed in consistency. For the little ones, “no- no” was simply enough. For the older children, explaining the reason behind any punishment was important. Over time, each learned boundaries and structure.

Pat and the late Russ Freeman’s eleven children pose together for a family photo in 1979.

A t age 82, Pat Freeman has opened her heart and her home to over 100 children in need, fostering them, loving them, and, in some cases, adopting them. Through each foster placement, she has shown that family is truly where love, stability, and kindness are found. “Our foster children were given the same love, care, and attention as our biological children,” Freeman recalls. “If you do it right, every foster child is truly yours, even if it’s just for a short while.” Freeman began her story as a military child born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With a younger sister and an adopted brother who had special needs, she was no stranger to the idea of family beyond blood. Her father’s service kept the family moving until they settled in Hot Springs, Arkansas, a place where Freeman would return repeatedly. She and her high school sweetheart, Russ, were inseparable. “We met in high school, started going steady, and got married after he returned from boot camp on November 3, 1960,” she said. The couple shared 51 years of marriage before his passing in 2011. Together, they built a family that went far beyond their three biological children.

The inspiration to foster began while the Freemans were stationed in White Sands, New Mexico. “We thought our family was complete, but I always enjoyed having a baby in the house,” she said. When a friend mentioned her adopted child came from foster care, something inside Freeman ignited. Before long, she and Russ were certified foster parents. Their first child, Patty, was a little girl with rosy cheeks who adored mashed potatoes. “We had her for a year and even took her on vacation back to Hot Springs. Though we hoped to keep her, she eventually found her forever family.” For the Freemans, every child who joined their family became a beloved part of it, bringing their own stories and creating cherished memories. Some were marked by moments like a teenager sneaking out the window for a midnight adventure, while others were as tender as a baby’s first coo of “I love you.” Among them was Angie, a little girl with spina bifida who disliked shoe fittings but loved being told she was pretty. The Freeman’s home was not just a place for children to sleep and eat. It was a haven, a sanctuary of sorts where they could heal and belong. “Preparing for a new child was always exciting for us,” she explains.

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Four generations of the Freeman family captured in 2007.

While they found joy and fulfillment in opening their home, there were also moments of heartache, especially when reuniting children with biological families who might have caused the child’s pain. “It was always challenging when biological parents or grandparents, sometimes the ones who had neglected or hurt the children, came for visits,” Freeman said. “We tried to be open-minded, knowing it was probably just as hard for them to be in our home as it was for us to welcome them.” Yet she continued, driven by deep faith and the resilience of her foster children. “People often think they couldn’t love someone else’s child or that foster parents do it for the money. Neither is true. I learned that sometimes children just need to feel loved and accepted to start healing.” In 1970, when the Freeman family lived in Pensacola, Florida, a six-year-old little boy named Jeff Bates was placed in their home. It was his sixth foster home, and he was only six years old. “I was, as you can imagine, a traumatized child,” shared Bates. “Mamma Pat welcomed me into the family and did her best to ease the pain of this new home. I was also comforted that my biological brother was also in the home because it meant that I wasn’t completely alone. I struggled in my new home and school, and Mamma Pat helped me through the changes, and I was able to adjust.” When the Freeman family relocated to Arkansas in

the summer of 1971, Bates and his brother were placed in a new home. Shortly before the Freeman family left Pensacola, the whole family visited him and his brother in their new home to ensure they were okay. “They didn’t have to visit before leaving,” Bates said, “but in doing so, she made sure we were safe and secure—the same thing she did for me the first day I was welcomed into her family.” Freeman’s story bears witness to the idea that a home is more than just walls, rooms, or the people who share your DNA. A true home is built on love, acceptance, and unwavering support. When looking back on her life, Freeman sees a colorful picture of many different, beautiful little faces all intertwined—hundreds of children who found safety, stability, and love under her very own roof. “It is very hard for a child to leave your home, but if they are being adopted, you know they’re moving into a loving, permanent home,” she reflects. “We would explain to the older kids that the child was going home, reminding them that family ties are strong, and we respected that.” And to anyone considering fostering, Freeman simply offers, “Open your hearts. You’ll receive more than you ever imagined and make memories to last a lifetime.” In a world where so many children are waiting for a place to call home, Pat Freeman’s story reminds us all that family truly isn’t defined by blood but by something

so much stronger. “It’s been a wild, blessed life,” she said. “When people ask how we managed, I always say it was only with God’s help.” With each child welcomed and each sad goodbye, Freeman showed that providing a safe and loving family is one of the greatest gifts we could offer. For those blessed enough to find that love, even if it is only for a short time, it changes everything. And for those willing to open their doors, the rewards are boundless.

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