Kims Tribute

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Inspiring Parents Motivating Kids Celebrating Life PRICELE$$ VOLUME 8 ISSUE 1

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Tribute to Kim Tinkham

Transcript of Kims Tribute

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Inspiring ParentsMotivating KidsCelebrating Life

PRICELE$$ VOLUME 8 ISSUE 1

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Judith Kim Ponder Tinkham (Kim) was born on February 7, 1957 in Gotemba, Shizuoka-ken, Japan to Carl and

Yukiko Ponder. She was the older of two sisters, Dana and Andrea. Her father was career Marine for 21 years, and she grew up as a “military brat,” living all over the United States; North Carolina, Tennessee, California, Florida, Illinois, Texas, and Iwakuni, Japan. Her family eventually settled in San Augustine, Texas where her father was raised and most of her family resides in Nacogdoches, Texas today. In 1972 the Ponder family moved to Iwakuni, Japan, at the end of Kim’s High School freshman year. She never had a problem fitting in and she dove right into being involved in school. Her sophomore year she played the piano and sang in the Talent Show at school. Kim was also a part of T.I.P. (Teen Involvement Program). Their motto was “Communication is the key to understanding.” She was the Head Cheerleader for the Varsity Boys Basketball team, and voted Spring Formal Queen. Kim was voted Class Favorite her junior year and also Ms. MCP (Best All Around). She was a member of the Newspaper Staff for the school paper, the President of the Student Council, played on the Girls Varsity Basketball team and a member of the National Honor Society. The purpose of the National Honor Society is to create an enthusiasm for Scholarship, to develop Character, to promote Leadership, to encourage Citizenship, and to stimulate a desire to serve. Kim learned and lived this into her adult years. Kim’s senior class was the biggest at the time to graduate from Matthew C. Perry High School. A few decided to finish in January, which was Kim, but the majority of the seniors decided to remain until June. Kim graduated high school from Matthew C. Perry High School in Iwakuni, Japan in 1975. She was Valedictorian of her class. Her accomplishments read: Student Council President 3; Class Secretary 2; Cheerleading 2; Cheerleading manager 3; Basketball 2, 3; Softball 3: Graduated 4. Kim attended Stephen F. Austin State University, in Nacogdoches, Texas. Her freshman year she was nominated Dorm Duchess. Because Kim moved a lot as a child, she learned to market herself again and again. She started her formal training in marketing and sales when she was 19. While attending college at Stephen F. Austin, she obtained her first job in sales, selling health club memberships. Over the next 20 years, she went from selling health club memberships to selling education, oil and gas, staffing, pagers, media, delivery and transportation. Kim met husband Scott Tinkham in 1986 in Fort Worth Texas, they were married in 1987 and moved to Boyd, Texas to begin their life together. They started their own Wise Family in 1988 when their son Garrett was born. In 1989 Kim used her incredible marketing and sales talents for their first company, Blue Chip Limousine, Inc. In

Kim Possible The Story of Kim TinkhamAs featured in the Bridgeport Index

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ten years time, the company went from a small two person start up to one of the largest ‘black car’ companies in Dallas, Texas.  Kim handled the marketing and sales, all the while building the company for a lucrative exit. They successfully sold that company in 2003 and took a year off to recover and figure out what their next venture would be. Living in an area where football is king, Garrett opted to play ice hockey like his father. Realizing at that time that he was probably the only hockey player in the county, Kim was concerned that Garrett wouldn’t get to experience the recognition from his peers like so many other high school athletes. So she decided that when the time was right she would come up with a way to recognize the positive activities of as many local young people as possible. In 2003 the first thoughts of WiseYouthToday began to take shape and Tink Ink Publications was created. Neither Kim nor Scott had any real publishing experience (other than Kim working as an student assistant during her summers on a military base in Japan with the Pacific Stars and Stripes publication). But, they wanted to recognize the various experiences of our young people. Kim’s interest in school clubs, photography, journalism, martial arts, rodeo, music, motocross, paintball, 4-H, FFA, scouting, volunteering, sports, working

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and more. If kids were involved in a positive way she wanted to recognize it ... even a stray hockey player or two if there were any more out there. Kim believed that when kids recognize potential in the accomplishments of others it can motivate them to do the same: Kim’s goal was simple. Make a positive difference in the lives of youth through recognition. Her Mission became Recognition! Kim’s first magazine, WiseYouthToday hit the stands in May of 2004. The choice of naming the magazine Wise Youth Today took on many meanings for Kim. She wanted to represent the past, the future and the present in the magazine; wisdom that is gained from the past, the importance of planning for future generations and the necessity of making a difference in the here and now. Although a magazine such as WiseFamily could recognize youth in any population segment, Kim chose to focus on the rural community in which she lived. Since that first issue, many folks have called, emailed and even stopped her at Starbucks to express their interest and support in her little publication. Many parents, grandparents and even advertising partners have joined in by emailing their kid’s pictures to be included in an issue. Kim’s second publication was in support of the Ice Hockey community. Ice Times Magazine was launched in August of 2006 and is still the only magazine of its kind covering Amateur ice hockey in Texas and Oklahoma. Kim wrote and published “Life Lessons on Ice” which has sold thousands of copies and is still available today in book stores. In October of 2007, Kim’s third publication, ParkerCountyKids (now ParkerCountyFamily) hit the stands in answer to many requests from another semi-rural community in North Texas where they had been distributing Wise Family. Parker County embraced the magazine and made it their own by sending in pictures and information of importance to their growing community. In 2009 Wise Youth Today became Wise Family Today Magazine, and then shortened to Wise Family Magazineacknowledging all things family, pledging to continue inspiring parents, motivating kids and celebrating life here in Wise County, Texas. Additionally in 2009, Kim created WiseWomanMagazine to inspire, inform and celebrate working women. All of Kim’s Publications have become a positive community communication, being available both in print and online. In June of 2009, Kim founded the Wise Merchants Association to help local businesses weather the recession. The goal of the Association is to allow merchants to share ideas, problems and solutions with other merchants. She strongly believed in local merchants supporting each other, keeping shopping dollars local, and providing business owners the

skills and information needed to grow their businesses. In addition to the success of all their magazines, some of Kim’s other accomplishments include:• Radio Commercial Voice-overs • On Air Talent/Spokesperson for Television Infomercials• Fort Worth Sales Person of the Year • Founded the United Hockey Moms Organization• Written and Published articles in national publications • Published children’s book in 2002 • TV Commercials • Advisory Board of AskPatty.com  • Chamber President • Founded a local Toastmasters Club • Rotarian of the Year • Guest Lecturer on Marketing at University of North Texas  • Guest on The Oprah Winfrey Show • Guest Panelist on Marketing To Women at Texas Women’s

University • Presenter of ‘How To Write an eBook’ to a Self Publishing

Support Group • Panelist on ‘Marketing Your Book’ • Speaker at Wellness Expo • Founder of the Wise Merchants Association• Featured on Small Biz Survival “Kim Tinkham Makes a

Difference in Decatur”• Civility Star Award Recipient Kim’s bigger than life personality was an inspiration; she touched the lives of many people all across the country. Her radiance and amazing smile instantly warmed the hearts of those she met. She truly loved people and had a passion for living life to the fullest! ■

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Le and her husband Curt live in Chico, Texas where they own Eagle Efficiency, a weatherization company. They specialize in insulation and windows. More information can be found at www.EagleEfficiency.com

Le Shepard

Kim’s PointRight now people all over the county are reflecting back on

the impact that Kim Tinkham made. She was a role model as both a small business owner and a community activist. She also challenged me in another area though… shopping. I’m one of those people who view shopping as a professional sport and Christmas as the World Series. I obsess about finding perfect gifts for everyone on my list and getting them for rock bottom prices. But, this year I took a different approach. In September’s edition of Wise Family Magazine, Kim wrote about the impact each of us can have on our community just by shopping locally. I thought about that for several weeks and made a decision. I decided to do Christmas different this year. I decided to do it local. I’ ll be honest, it wasn’t always easy. Anyone can buy generic gifts at the mall or online. It’s harder to take the time to park and walk into a dozen little shops to find hidden treasures. I did find great gifts but along the way I also discovered something extra. You see, there is more to it than just keeping our hard earned money in the county. I met some of the many great artists in our little towns. I stumbled across parents proud to show me handmade merchandise created by their children and mom’s working to provide their kids with a better life through small businesses. I discovered the people of Wise County. I think that was Kim’s point all along. She wanted us to walk outside and meet our neighbors, to support the community we love and to experience small town life to its fullest. In another issue she wrote, “If my life is as short as I believe it to be I want to squeeze every last ounce of life out of it. I want to take advantage of my time here, of the people here and of the opportunity here.” I believe that Kim accomplished that goal. She lived life to the fullest and taught those around her to do the same. She will truly be missed. ■

Thoughts of Kim…IhavebeenwritingforKimforjustoverthreeyears.Unfortunately, IneverdidgetachancetomeetKimin person. But through her articles and our emailexchangesIcouldtellshewasaveryspecialperson.I have never come across anyone as dedicatedto promoting youth hockey as Kim. The hockeycommunity,asKimwaskeentotrumpet,isatightknitgroup.WheneverItoldsomeoneIwasluckyenoughtowriteforIceTimes,theresponsewas,“Oh,Kim’smagazine.”WewillmissKim,butwearebetter forhavingherinourworld.Mythoughtsandprayersarewith theTinkhamfamily.Thankyou forsharingKimwithallofus!Mark Dyslin

Itwas great participating in theBenefitFundraiserforKimtonight.I was pleasantly surprised thatthebeautifulmusicwasourKimsinging.WasthereanythingKimcouldn’tdo?IlovedallthesongsandIwouldlovetohaveacopyoftheCDandIwouldbettherearealotofotherpeoplewhowouldliketo have one... also.Kim, Imissyouandourconversations,yourencouragement.Gonetoosoon.Loree Long

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Born to be a librarian, Cecilia Barham began reading when she was three and was a library aide in elementary school. After earning a Master’s degree in English, she finally realized her true calling and continued her education to become a librarian. She has worked in both academic and public libraries and has found her home at the Decatur Library, where she serves as Library Director. She is professionally active and currently serves as the president of the North Texas Library Consortium and chair-elect of the Public Libraries Division of the Texas Library Association. She may be contacted at [email protected].

Cecilia Hurt Barham

When Deborah asked the writers from WiseFamily and WiseWoman if we would be willing to write about how

Kim had impacted our lives, I was moved and conflicted. I so greatly admired Kim, but I felt that as a writer I would fall short of expressing what an amazing and inspirational person I found her to be. She was one of the first people to welcome me into the community when I began working at the library five years ago and every interaction with her after that was meaningful, uplifting and empowering. She always saw the best in others, in me, in the library, in the community. She made you aspire to be and do more. In times of sorrow and joyful remembrance we can be comforted and guided by great works of literature, and so, because my words cannot do my memory of Kim justice, I defer to the quote that comes to mind when I think about Kim. Kim “…smiled understandingly - much more than understandingly. It was one of those rare smiles with a quality of eternal reassurance in it, that you may come across four or five times in life. It faced–or seemed to face–the whole external world for an instant, and then concentrated on you with an irresistible prejudice in your favor. It understood you just as far as you wanted to be understood, believed in you as you would like to believe in yourself.” (F. Scott Fitzgerald, TheGreatGatsby) So I will remember Kim’s smile, her understanding, her belief. ■

KimwastheQueenofTexasHockey...Lettherebenodoubt.MyfamilyandIwillalwaysbethankfulforhercontributionsandherenthusiasmforyouthhockeyinNorthTexas.Erick Ahlstedt

IjustlearnedofKim’spassinganditbroughttearstomyeyes.Herpassionforlivinglifetothefullestandhertremendouscourageinspiredmeandmanyothers.IamgratefultohaveknownandworkedwithKim.Shewillberemembered.Mycondolencestoherfamily.Jody DeVere CEO AskPatty.com

Thankyoutoeveryonewhoparticipated in theBenefitFundraiser forKimtonight.Itlookedlikeasuccess.Thebestthingwaswalkinginandhearingmysister’sbeautifulvoicesinging.TheywereplayingtheCDofsongsshehadmadeyearsback.The2ndbest thingwasseeingeveryonetherewhotookthetimeoutof...theirSundayeveningtobewithusall.Thankyoueveryone... fromthebottomofmyheart. Iamdeeplytouched.Dana Ponder

I’mstunnedanddeeplysaddened.Mythoughtsandprayers.Robert Giles

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After seven years in private practice, James Stainton took office as the Wise County Attorney in January 2009.  James works with the Wise County Teen Court and Wise County Domestic Violence Task Force and believes that only through involvement and action can we make a difference in our community.

James Stainton

Wise Family Today- “A Tribute to Kim”

I first met Kim right before she started WiseYouthToday. She really impressed me with her willingness to go against the

grain to do things the way she felt was right. Soon after I met her, she started the magazine and I chatted with her again at several local functions. Every single time I spoke to her, I knew something was very different about her. I have told people over and over that she is simply infectious. You simply cannot stop being drawn in to her personality and energy. Read any note or article that Kim has written since the Spring of 2004 and you will see what I mean. Rarely have I met a person who is so focused on giving of herself for the benefit of others. Every single article, note, comment, email, and merchant meeting was dedicated to someone else’s success. How is that possible? How can one person do so much? She was truly a gift to all of us. On a personal note, I looked to the heavens last week and said “thanks.” I said thanks because I am a better man and a better person because of Kim. I remember emails when I first met Kim encouraging me to write and to be creative. She reminded me that how I present myself and how I conduct my business is very important as a member of the professional community. I could write on and on but Kim always “suggested” that I work on being brief. In fact, she put me on a timer at several meetings just to make sure that I stayed focused. Seriously, she really did put me on a timer. I can close my eyes now and see her face, her smile, and most importantly her personality. I really miss her, but I am sure that she would not want me to dwell too long on her passing. She would want me to make the most of each day that I have. Thanks to her help and her kindness, each day that I have will be that much better. God be with you Kim. I will never forget you. ■

Thoughts of Kim…The Aponte family is saddened at Kim’s passing. Her passion andcommitment toher familyandcommunitywasan inspiration.We feelblessedtohaveknownher.Linda Aponte

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How One Person Can Make A DifferenceWe all have had people in our lives that made a difference

and shaped us into the person we are today; a teacher, a mentor, a colleague, a friend. But, it is extremely rare that all of these roles are found in one person. Kim was all of these roles to me and each role has made a difference in my life. Kim inspired me from the first moment we met, I was in awe of her vivacious personality and smile. She was so excited about my business and the concept of virtual assistance; it was the perfect solution for her since she worked from home. Our incredible journey together began after our first meeting at Starbucks. We quickly became close and formed a very special relationship. Little did I realize that Kim would help me far beyond the assistance I provided to her. I used to tell her that when I grow up I want to be Kim Tinkham! Kim took me under her wing and involved me in just about everything. I absolutely loved spending time with her and seeing her in action at networking events. People gravitated towards her, and she worked her magic of coaching

and connecting others. Kim gently pushed me out of my comfort zone, sometimes reluctantly, but always trusting her and knowing she was doing it for me. She consistently encouraged me to be more and do more, both personally and professionally. Kim truly cared about people and taught me to always give people the benefit of the doubt. What really impressed me about Kim is how she always put others before herself. She listened, she believed in people, she motivated and encouraged people, and she genuinely wanted to help others succeed. We’ve all seen the difference Kim made in our community with her magazines, volunteering, and passion for local businesses. She touched the lives of many people in many ways. Even people that never met her knew how unique and special she was. Kim made a difference by being authentic, selfless, compassionate, and loving. She set an incredible example

for all of us. I will cherish the invaluable skills and life lessons she taught me and carry her with me in my heart forever. ■

Deborah Reynolds, Owner of DediKated Resource Virtual Administrative Solutions, virtually assists solo and small business owners in growing their businesses and educating them on Web 2.0 technologies. She is a Certified Internet Marketing & Social Media Marketing Specialist, and specializes in establishing a local online presence for businesses. For more information on her services, please visit www.dedikatedresource.com, and connect with her on Facebook www.facebook.com/DediKatedVA and Twitter @DediKatedVA.

Deborah Reynolds

Thoughts of Kim…TheHirschyFamily,andMidwayPress,areverysorryforyourlossandofferoursympathytoScottandGarrett.Julie Hirschy

I amsosorry tohearof your loss. I spokewithKimseveralyearsagoaboutgettinggoalielessonsfromGarrett.ShewillbemissedintheDFWhockeycommunity.GodBless.Stacy Ellen Gent Howard

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Power of Social Capital People do business with those they know, like, and trust. In

fact, they will drive further and spend more if they know they’ll be treated well. Business owners focus a great deal of time, effort, and finances on how they can attract new customers and increase their profits. But, have you ever noticed that slick ads and marketing gimmicks alone do not generate long-term business success? Eight-five percent of a person’s success in business is based on strong social skills, and only fifteen percent is based on technical ability. Being excellent in your craft will provide you with a necessary and important skill set, but being excellent in social skills will be the key to connecting you with the marketplace. This is the true essence of marketing. Social capital is better than money in the bank, and it’s recession proof! Interestingly, we never really know how much we have in our social bank account until we need to make a withdrawal. What is social capital? Simply put, it is our relationships. Social capital is the relationships that we have w it h our vendors, our competitors, and our customers. It is through these relationships that valuable networks are formed where we can solve problems a n d g e n e r a t e business.

S o c i a l c a p i t a l requires integrity We must be people of our word. When I say I am going to do something, I must follow through. Warren Buffet said that it takes 20 years to build a reputation and only five minutes to ruin it. I must be the same person at home as I am in the office and at Wal-Mart. Social capital requires that I develop an ability to work effectively with all types of people, from all types of backgrounds. The better I am at connecting with a variety of people, the more social capital I will create.

Six ways you can increase your social capital• Maintain a positive attitude. • Truly value your client - not just their money. • Make it a priority to really “see” others by practicing the Art

of Acknowledgment.• Become a better listener. Learn to listen beyond their words

to hear their heart. What is it that they need - not just what you want to give to them. Consider how you can help them meet that need.

• Look for ways to invest in others, and help them achieve their goals.

• Be consistent! Small, consistent, daily acts add up and make a difference.

What can you expect in return for your social investment? Great wealth - a wealth that has the power to endure the storms of life. When you invest $1,000 in your bank, your return is limited to whatever the current interest rate may be. With social capital, however, your investment can mushroom far beyond what you can imagine. Remember the movie, It’s a Wonderful Life? In that movie George Bailey realized the true secret of wealth was not in what he had tried to locked away in some bank, but rather it was what was released through the relationships he had created. He discovered, much to his surprise, that he was a very rich man. One of the greatest examples I can think of regarding someone who has created social wealth is Kim Tinkham. You can’t meet a person in Wise County who doesn’t know her and who doesn’t speak about her with the highest regard.

K im welcomed every person she met with a huge smile, a warm handshake, and friendly hello. She was genuinely interested in you, and wanted to k now how she could support you. Kim walked with integrity, kindness and compassion. Kim and I spent count le s s hou r s over the years at Starbucks talking

about these and other issues. I know one of Kim’s greatest desires was that everyone would become a mega-millionaire in social capital. She knew it has the power to carry you through the good times, as well as the challenging times, and - as a bonus- it’s tax free! For 2011, let’s purpose to increase our social capital by investing in those we come in contact with so that next Christmas we all can say we are social capital mega-millionaires! ■

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Deborah King is President of Final Touch Finishing School, Inc. which she founded in 1989 in Seattle. As a certified image professional, with over 30 years of experience, she presents her programs nationally and internationally for youth and corporate clients. She is co-author of “Image Power” and “Executive Etiquette Power” and developer of several education tools. www.finaltouchschool.com. www.facebook.com/deborah.king1www.linkedin.com/in/finaltouchfinishingschool

Deborah King, AICI CIP

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Keitha Story-Stephenson, DS, owner of BlueSky Wellness Center, provides private consultation in Nutritional Wellness, Weight Management, ADD/ADHD Nutritional Management, and other Alternative Health Care, including private, alternative individual behavior counseling. Services are available by appointment in Decatur at 506 West Walnut. Call 817-239-9525 or 940-626-9898 for appointment or visit us at www.blueskywellnesscenter.com for more information. Follow us on Twitter @ BlueSkyKeitha and our blog www.DrKeitha.com.

Keitha Story-Stephenson D.S.

“We must be the change we want to see.”Mahatma Gandhi

Ah, Kim, we will miss you. Your joy, your energy, your inspiration have truly changed Wise County. Those traits

have lifted your friends to new levels of promise and have been and forever will be a source of encouragement. That sound you hear is gratitude. It is difficult to write a letter to a dear friend who has left us too soon. My heart wants to pick up the telephone or stop by Starbucks to share a laugh and latte. But not today. Instead, let me take this venue to speak to you … for myself, for our friends and for this county. On many occasions, I recall your burning desire to promote and encourage this county and her people. You saw hope and the future in the small businesses of Wise County and in every individual. You worked seemingly tireless days to teach and inspire us to be more than we thought we could ever be. You enjoyed seeing growth and advancement in our businesses and our lives. You listened us into existence. We learned to be better businessmen and women through

Wise Merchants Association and your programming. Your marketing instructions lead us into areas unknown before and taught us to focus on the possible within us. We learned to “think BIG” and to expect more from ourselves and from our work. But you were more than that to us. You were our friend. You were our companion. And you enjoyed time with us. I often marveled that regardless of who you were talking to, regardless of where you were, you made the person you were with feel as if they were the most important person in the room. You gave us the best of gifts. You gave us attention and value. What a wonderful life. Lessons taught and lessons learned. Kim, you taught us how to love, how to work and how to die; with joy, with passion, and with grace. And like another gone too soon, Diana, we will miss your beauty, your compassion, your presence and your service. Sleep well Wise Princess. We will do our best to make you proud. We will be the change we want to see. ■

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Wewillmissyouandwillalwayscherishyourwords,caringheartandthoughts!Kayla Koerner Prock

TheMignaultFamilyoffersourCondolences.YouareinourPrayers.Daniel Mignault

IwroteamonthlycolumnforKimfor2+years.Ourmonthlyemailexchangesalwaysbroughtasmiletomyface.Shewasatreasuretoworkwith and a true professional.On top of that,wegot toswapstoriesaboutourgoaliesons.Prayerstoherfamily.Michael Schwarz

So blessed to have called her a friend.Kimwastrulyradiantwoman.Tate Reid

SogratefultohaveknownandworkedwithKimseveralyearsago.Themostpositive,energeticpersonthatI’veeverknown.Iwillneverforgetwhat a pleasure itwas toworkwith her andScottandthepositiveimpactthatshehadonmylife.Shemadeadifferenceandwillbemissed.Louise Lane

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Thoughts of Kim…“While assisting Scott in the youth hockey leagues atSkatinTexasandBlueLine,IgottonowScott’swonderfulwifeKim.Aladyofclassbeyondwordsandafriendtoallwhowerefortunatetohavemetandknownher.HeavenwillbeblessedjustthatmuchmorebyanewAngel.MayGodblessScottandGarrett…”Tom Quigley

Kimwasanamazingwomanand there is nowa greatvoiduponthisearth.Shewassmart,beautiful,funny,andcourageousineveryaspectofherlife,notjustinherbattlewithcancer.Kimtookeverythingheadonanddidn’tknowthemeaningoftheword“can’t”inlifeorbusiness.Shewaslovedandwillbemissed.Icrytodayforher,forScott,andforGarrettbutIwillalwaysrememberherwithasmile.Jodi Maley

Kimwastrulyanangelhereonearth.Fromthemomentshewalkedintoaroomitwouldlightup.Debbie Knabe

IcouldtellwhenImetKim,althoughverybriefly,thatshewassomeoneIwouldhavelikedtohavebeenfriendswithandknownbetter.Shewasbeautiful,kindandextremelyintelligentandveryknowledgeableabouthockey,whichIadmiredverymuch.Jane Thomas

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Michael Dunham  has been building and repairing computer systems for friends, family and customers in his spare time for 25 years ago.  After receiving so many requests for in-home/in-office computer repair, he decided to open COMPUTER RHINO with the vision of protecting and supporting North Texas computer users and has done so for the last five years.  www.computerrhino.com

Michael Dunham

Celebrating a LifeI remember the first time I met Kim Tinkham. My feeling is

that anyone who has met her can say that. There are few that one meets in life that parallels her energy and enthusiasm. She was obviously steeped in positivity. You could believe she could do anything, because you believed that she believed she could do it. You don’t have to look too far to see her achievements, but you have to look past her, because she never touted herself. To me, she just exuded an inspirational sense of self. Many of the things you could say about Kim are the things you can say about hundreds or even thousands of people you meet in your lifetime. Kind, caring, committed, grounded, intelligent, for example. Seems like when you start to run out of those kinds of words, and have to fish a little deeper to describe her…that’s where Kim Tinkham starts. She was everywhere, between this publication, and her others, or the Wise County Merchant’s Association. Seems in the last few years all of my business and casual contacts have been six degrees of separation from Kim Tinkham. She is the hub of a vast network of great businesses and great people. She was bright in so many of the uses of that word. Bright smile, bright intellect, she had an inner light that shined out. She had the kind of light that burns beyond her lifetime. The world is a little dimmer now, but her light shines on. It shines in the eyes of her son, Garrett, and her partner, collaborator and husband Scott Tinkham, both possessors of their own uniqueness and strength. All three have warm, open-hearted and easy broad smiles that echo personal security and cohesiveness. Hers will be missed. However, her light shines on in the continuing publications and organizations, and network of businesses and individuals that she founded, and forever in the hearts of her friends and loved ones. I am glad I met Kim Tinkham, her life inspires me and I celebrate her. ■

Iamsothankfulforourfriendship.Youareawomanofexcellencewhohasinspiredme,andeveryoneyouhavetouched,todomoreandbemorethantheyeverimagined.LoveallourhoursatStarbucksorChilis talkingendlesslyabouteverythingunder thesun.Beblessedmyfriend!Ican’twaittoseeyouagain!!!!Deborah King

WeallhavelearnedsomuchfromKim,nowourchallengeiscanwedemonstrateinourlivesthewonderfulthingsshetaughtus?Asmallmeasure of Kim’swisdom can go alongwaytowardmakingthisworldabetterplace.It’suptousnow.We’vebeenshowntheway.Glenn Walker

Thoughts of Kim…

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Unforgettable…I first met Kim and Scott in the summer of 2008 when they

interviewed me regarding the production of their magazines. I had just gone into semi-retirement and the opportunity to work from home after spending 10 years driving to Fort Worth every day was very appealing. I was very impressed with both their dedication to Wise County families and businesses. Kim was such a pleasure to work with, always upbeat and positive. Even if deadline pressures got to her, she never passed that pressure on to me. I know Kim was very positive about this county, wanting its families and merchants to have the best that life offers – strong families, a strong economy, and a strong faith and will to help each other. The Bible tells us that angels walk among us. I thank God that I got to work with one and to call her my friend. ■

Donnelle Cooper, Kim’s graphic artist

Thoughts of Kim…IamsureallofuswhomhaveeverhadthechancetoknowKimeventuallyfellinlovewithher,IknowIdid.Kimwemissyouandwillalwayscherishthememorieswehave. Ihavemanyandeachbringsasmile!Youfilledmyheartwith joywhenall Iwanted todowasbeangry,youwillalwayshaveaspecialplaceinmyheart!Myprayerstoyourfamily!Bob Sheridan

I’veknownKimforlessthanayearbuttodayI’velostadearfriend.ThelasttimeIspokewithherItoldhershewasmyhero!!Shewasatrulyamazingwoman,whohadtheability tomoveotherstodoamazingthings.ThanksKim,you’vemadealastingimpressiononme&mylife.Youwillbemissedbutnotforgotten....Mythoughtsandprayersgoouttoallwhoknew&lovedKim.GodBless.Karen Scherer

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Rosalie GreggRosalie Gregg was born near Hayden, New Mexico. Ms. Gregg graduated from Paradise High School and from Decatur Baptist College. She married Robert Nolen Gregg, Jr., who had been a Prisoner of War for 3-1/2 year during which time he helped build the railroad that led to the Bridge over the River Kwai in Thailand. Ms. Gregg has been involved with the Wise County Heritage Museum since its inception in 1967.www.wisehistory.com

I didn’t know Kim very well. I met her at one of the Oncor meetings we had, but I did have a lot of correspondence

with her. I appreciated it so very much her when she asked me to write about the history of Wise County, as we have so many new people now that do not know our past and she published it as it was written. She will be missed; she gave so much of herself to the magazine. ■

Thoughts of Kim…I didn’t knowKimvery longbut shemadesuchanimpactinmylife!Suchastrongandpositiveperson!Shewillbemissed!Mythoughtsandprayersgoouttoherfamily!Kellie Givens Floyd

Kimwasawonderfulladythatwillbegreatlymissed.Mythoughtsandprayersgoouttoherfamily.Sheila Saunders Miller

DearestScottandGarrett,Wearesoverysorry foryourloss.Shewasanawesomehumanbeing!WordscannotdescribehowverysadweareforyouScottandGarrett.YoualwayshaveaplacetovisitinSyracuse,NYwithus!Wewill rememberKimasawonderfulwifeandmom!Godcomfortyou in thisdifficult timeandgiveyoupeace,andtoherwonderfulfamilyandfriends,weloveyouguys!Sincerely,John andGrace DeJohn

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KIMIwishthatIcouldunderstandTheinnerworkingsofGod’splan

ToknowmighteasethepainandacheThisfeelingoflossmightIthenshake

IknowthepainisnotjustmineForIcanheartheangelscrying

SoIaskedGod,whyisitthisway?AndfrommysoulIheardHimsay

IknowyoulongforyourlovedoneButhermissionthereonearthisdone

She’snotgonethough,notlikeyouthinkYou’reconnectedstillbyanunbreakablelink

ThelinkisloveanditlastsforeverIt’sbondisstrongandcan’tbesevered

Sowhy,youaskdotheangelscry?Listenclosely,I’lltellyouwhy

TheycrybecausetheyfeelyouranguishAndintheirheartstheysomuchwish

ThatyoucouldseethroughangelseyesSoyouwouldlearnthatnoonedies

She’swithyourightnowaswespeakInfact,shejustkissedyouonthecheek

AndthoughyoumightnotunderstandAlliswellandjustasplanned

Composed by TC Baker in loving memory of Kim Ponder Tinkham

The DashbyLindaEllis

Ireadofareverendwhostoodtospeakatthefuneralofhisfriend.Hereferredtothedatesonhertombstonefromthebeginning...totheend.

Henotedthatfirstcamethedateofherbirthandspokeofthefollowingdatewithtears,buthesaidwhatmatteredmostofallwasthedashbetweenthoseyears.

Forthatdashrepresentsallthetimethatshespentaliveonearth…andnowonlythosewholovedherknowwhatthatlittlelineisworth.

Foritmattersnot,howmuchweown;thecars…thehouse…thecash.Whatmattersishowweliveandloveandhowwespendourdash.

Sothinkaboutthislongandhard…aretherethingsyou’dliketochange?Foryouneverknowhowmuchtimeisleft.(Youcouldbeat“dashmid-range.”)

Ifwecouldjustslowdownenoughtoconsiderwhat’strueandreal,andalwaystrytounderstandthewayotherpeoplefeel.

Andbelessquicktoanger,andshowappreciationmoreandlovethepeopleinourliveslikewe’veneverlovedbefore.

Ifwetreateachotherwithrespect,andmoreoftenwearasmile…rememberingthatthisspecialdashmightonlylastalittlewhile.

So,whenyoureulogy’sbeingreadwithyourlife’sactionstorehash...wouldyoubeproudofthethingstheysayabouthowyouspentyourdash?

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Thoughts of Kim…Youhavetouchedmyheart,alongwithmanyothers,insomanyways.Youarebeautiful insideandout.Yoursmileisradiant,yourhugsaresomeaningful,andyourspiritisdivine.Fromthe1sttimethatImetyou,youhavealways(nomatterhowbusyyouareorwhatwasonyourplate) taken the time tostop,givemeahug,andaskaboutourfamily.Youhavealwaysputothersfirst(withthemostremarkablesmile),andinturnyousomanyseeyouonapedestalasIdo.Godhasaplanand,thoughsometimeswedonotunderstand,Iknowtheplanforyouisextremelyspecial.Youareanamazingwomanandhavedonesomanywonderful things!Your leadershiphasmadeamarkthatwilllastforever!Thankyouforallthatyouhavedone&allthatyouhavestarted!Weloveyouandareprayingforpeaceforyouandyourfamily!Chad, Kristen, & Layton Huddleston

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Ijustwanttosayhowsorryweareforyourloss.Ididn’tpersonallyknowKim,butwewerebigfansofthemagazine.Shehadapictureofoursoninthemagazineplayinghockeyafewyearsagoandsowerequestedalotofcopiesforourfamilyandhavelovediteversince.Oursonisnow19andisincollegeatTexasState,wheretheydonothaveahockeyleagueunfortunately,sohereallymissesgettingtoplay.So,westilltrytostayintouchwiththenewsandleaguethroughthemagazine.Kimandherinvolvementwilltrulybemissed…..Paula Eckel

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Thoughts of Kim…Although I have not known you long, you havetouchedmy life in a very personalway. You haveshownmehowtobetheverybestpersonIcanbe;howtonetworkinwaystohelpmybusinessandhelppromoteothers.EverytimeIhavemetwithyouinthepast,youweretheteacherandIyourpupil.Youhavetaughtmesomuch,Iwillbeforevergrateful.Youwillalwaysbeinmyheart,mythoughts,andmyprayers.Itisaprivilegetocallyoumyfriend.Iloveyou,Deborah Mann

Kim,Ineverknewyoupersonally,butyouknewwhoIwasjustbecauseIwasinyourmagazinejustacoupleoftimes.Yourmemorywasstriking.Someday,Ihopetobeabletoimpactthecommunitythewayyouhave.Youareaninspiration.Emma Armitage

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KimwasanAMAZINGbusinesspersonandwasaHUGEinspirationtopeopleofallages.Youneverwouldhaveknownmuchaboutwhatshedidprofessionallybecauseherfocusalwaysturnedtohelpingthoseinhermidst.Ican’tremembermanyconversationswesharedthatwerereallyABOUTHER.Shewastoobusyaskingaboutmyfamilyandmybusiness.Shewasthequeenof“ShoppingLocal”andsupportingsmallbusinessandthecommunityaroundher.Sheunderstoodtheimportanceofsupportingthosepeoplerighthereintownsotheyinturncouldsupportourlocalcausesandareayouth.Herfocuswasgenuineandalwaysonthepeoplearoundher.ThankyouKimandScott&Garrettwhosograciously“shared”Kimwithothers.Marianne Hogge Henderson

Iknowherplaceinourcommunitywillnotbefilled,shewassuchaunique,sweetwoman.Wendy Fowler

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Kim,youhavealwaysbeenaveryspecialpersonandfriendinmylife.Iknewfromthemomentwemetthatyouwereanamazingperson.YouwerethegirlfromTexasthathadsucharadianceaboutherthateveryonefellinlovewithyouthemomentyoumet.Irememberyousinging,andmetryingtosingwithyou.LOL“...Brandy...you’reafinegirl....”ThememoriesIhaveofuswillalwaysbeveryprecious.Pleaseknowthatmythoughtsandprayersarewithyou,Danaandyourfamilies.Angel Tessier

Kim,fromthe1sttimeIeversawyou,whichwasonOprahofallthings..someonefromBoyd,Tx,theplacewhereIlive,onOprah!Ithoughtofyouoften,wonderingabouthowyouwere.(IevenwrotetoOprahaskingthemtodoafollowuponyou!)Then3yrslaterhadthepleasureofmeetingyouinouroffice!Ihaveonlyknownyouforashorttimeandfeltthesameaboutyouasmanyhavealreadydescribedonthispage.Youareaninspirationtome.Ialwayslookedforwardtoyourvisits.Ihavebeenprayingforyou&yourfamilycontinuallyeachday.GodBless!Donna Garske

Kim,youhaveastrongandpositiveinfluenceoneveryoneyoucomeincontactwith.Myprayersandtheprayersofmyfamilyarewithyoueachday.Youhavesuchastrongnetworkofsupportinthiscommunitythatlovesyoudearly.Youareaninspirationtomany.Keepyourspiritstrong.Brian and the Stephens Family

Kim,didyouknowthatyouhavea“MillionDollarSmile”?MoveoverCoverGirl!WeallloveyouverymuchandI’msogladtohaveevermetyouwhileIwasinhighschool!Somanygreatmemories!Linda Jones Eskeli

Kim,youneedtoknowhowlovedyouare.Howrespectedyouare.Howadmiredyouare..Youarealwaysblazingatrail.Iwouldsayyouarealways‘lightingfiresandkickingtires.’Youaresettingthebarhighforeveryonearoundyoubutmostofall,youaremakingsuretheyknowtheycangetoverthebarandyouwillhelpthemeverystepoftheway.That’swhoyouare.Itoldmystaffandtheyareliftingyouupinprayer.Theirdescriptionofwhoyouare,is“beautifulandbubbly.”Theirveryfirstresponseis,whatcanwedotohelp?YouareaBABE.Youaremyfriend.Youaremyinspiration.Youarepartofmyheartandsoul.Youaremygadgetgal.Youareabelieverindreams.Youarea‘thinker’outsidethebox.Youarealightthatwillneverbedim.Never,ever,never,ever.Iloveyouforwhoyouare.Godlovesyou,too,forwhoyouare.Sherry Parker-Lemon

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..thinking of Kim and her family this evening...shedefinitely put her mark on our community in sucha unique and wonderful way...and will be greatlymissed...Martha Patterson Carrillo

Youwillalwaysberemembered.MayGodBlessyourfamily.Shawn Passariello

HiKim,thankyouforinspiringmeearlyinmycareer.Iwas fearlessand ready toconquer theworld,youguidedmeandcoachedmeintorealitywithoutbustingmy enthusiasm. I will always be grateful for yourleadershipandinspiration.Iamaveryfaithfulpersonandfeelclosertomyfaiththanever.Iamprayingthatyourjourneyisbeautifulandpainless.Godblessyou,yourfamily,friendsandmedicalstaff.Mysonis21andcloseinagetoGarrett,wearehereforyou.Eric,wouldlove to travelandaccompanyme toseeyou.Manyblessingsmyfriend.Cynthia Navarro

Notonlywashersmilesospecial,hereyeswereasbeautifulashersoul.Linda Jones Eskeli

Thoughts of Kim…

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ImetKimthreeorsoyearsago.Shewasanlnspirationtome.AclassActWoman!Myprayersgoout to thisfamily.GODBLESSYA’LL.Juanita Ransom

I only knowKim for a very short time.. but shewasalways smiling and happy.. I’m glad to know her…ourprayersarewithyourfamily.Cindy Jo Pidgeon

Kim, I thinkaboutour“excursion” intoBostontogetheroften,and laugh. Icherish thatexperience! Iwantyoutoknowthatyou,ScottandGare inour thoughtsandprayers!! If there isanythingwecandoplease letusknow!!Jennifer Hayden

Kim,itmademesohappytoseeyou.Ican’trememberwhenorhowwefirstdiscoveredthatourbirthdayswerejust a day apart, but that turned into something thatbroughtus togetherover theyears. Ienjoyedourdualcelebrationsandyouconvincedmethatabirthdayneverisa timeforbrooding,andwhile it isawonderful timeofbeingacknowledgedandcelebratedby friendsandfamily,itreallyisatimeforourownpersonalreflection,celebration,andanticipationofthefuture.ForaslongasIamfortunatetocelebrateanotheryear,youalwayswillbeapartofthatcelebrationforme. Kari McConnell Campon

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Kim,youhavetouchedsomanyofusinWiseCountywiththewayyoubringpeopletogether,yourpositiveattitudeandyourradiance.Youhavebeenaninspirationtome!Pleaseknowthatyouareinmyprayers.Debbie Waggoner

AuntKimIloveyousomuch!!!!YouareoneofthenicestandhappypeopleIknowinthisbigol’world!Ilovedallthe4thofJulysandothereventsatyourhouseandyourpassionforallyoudo.I’velovedallyou’vedoneforme–yournotjustmyaunt–yourmyfriendandamotherallinone!Yourcourageknowsknowbound...andyouevenmetOprahwhichisridiculous!!!I’llkeepGarretandScottinmyheartlikethebigbrotheranddadtheyaretome.Iloveyoualwaysandforever.Hunter Connelly

MydearsisterKimmy,youaresuchablessinginmylife.Iwillforeverrememberthefunwehadinourearlyyearsofmarriage...YouandScottcomingtoseeusinCalifornia,ChelseaandGarrettweretinythen.AndthelaughswehadatLisa’swedding!Ialwayslovehangingwithyousittingaroundtalkinganddiscussingallthewaystobebetterwomen.I’vemissedthosetalkslately.Ialwaysknowtimespentwithyouisalwaysgoingtobeeasy,fun,andenlightening...YouareoneofthestrongestpeopleIknowAndIsoadmireyourcourage.IwillmakeitmymissiontokeepGarrettclosetohisfamilyandseetoitthatheisalwayssurroundedwithlove.Iwillseeyouandyourlightineverhummingbird....Iloveyou,Jill Tinkham Connelly

Thoughts of Kim…

Kim,IfeelasthoughIknowyoueventhoughIonlymetyouoncebutIknowwhatafriendyouhavebeentomysisterandhowmuchshetreasuresyourfriendship.ThankyouforgivinghersupportandencouragementandIcanseefromallthosewhoknowyouwell,thatyouareaveryspecialpersonindeed.Myheart&prayersgoouttoyouandyourfamily,mayGodblessandkeepyouinHiscare.Darla Hurley

Kim,Wow...wehaveknownyouforsuchalongtime.HunterandIwatchedyouandmomaswegrewup.Ya’lltaughtuswhatfriendshiplookedlike!Ihavesomegreatmemoriesfrommychildhoodatyourhouse.AndalthoughIam27nowandhave2boysofmyownnow,IstillpictureGarrettasaten-yr-oldboyplayingrollerhockeywithmybrother.Manhowthetimeflies!Thanksforbeingsuchagreatfriendtomymom!!!Ihavealwaysadmiredyourstrengthanddetermination.Ourthoughtsandprayersarewithyou,ScottandGarrett.MuchLove,Lacey Smart

Kim,youareanawesomewoman.YourbeliefintheyouthofWiseCountyhasgivensomanykidsgreatopportunities.Prayersforyouandyourfamily.Lisa , Lyndi, Lauryn Luttrull

Kim,YouhavetouchedsomanylivesIthinkminethemost.Iloveyouforever!Karen Turner

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FromthefirsttimeImetKimatBlueLinewhenshewastryingtoorganizeUSAHockeyMoms,IknewIwasinthepresenceofsomeoneveryspecial.Kim’salwayspositiveoutlook,herdevotiontoherfamilyandeverything,evenus“lowly”officials,hockeyistrulyinspirational.Likeagoodhockeyteam,wewillallrallyaroundyouineverywaypossible.Ourprayersandthoughtsarewithyou.Ken Reinhard

Kim–Somanypeopleareprayingforyouandyourfamily!Pleaserealizehowmanylivesyouhaveblessedbyjustbeingyou!(Mine,forone!!)Youmotivateandinspirepeopletobebetterversionsofthemselves!!Itisanhonortocallyoumyfriend!!Staystrong–it’snotlikeyouknowhowtobeanythingelse!!Youareanamazinglady!!GodBlessYou!!Marty Harrison

Kim,youhaveabeautifulspirit!Thankyouforlettingitshineforotherstosee.Willbeprayingforyou!Ihopeyoufeelthelayersoflovethatsurroundyouandhopeitgivesyoucomfort!Susan Funk

Adearfriendwithagreatgiftofcompassionandcaring.AllofusatMCRRancharewithyouinfaithandprayer.Ourlove,Karolyn and Staff at MercyCame Running Ranch

Kim,youpersonifyinspiration!WhatanamazingambassadoryouareforWiseCounty!!IamproudtosayIknowyou.Sabrina Easley Taylor

IhavebeeninaweofyoueversinceIfirstmetyou.Iwaslookingforwardtoworkingwithyou,butIguessthatwillhavetowaitawhile.Idon’tknowhowyoudowhatyoudo.Youhavegivensomuchtoothers,Ihopewhatweallcangivebacktoyouwillmakeadifference.Somanyaresendingloveandstrengthandprayers.Godblessyou.Karen Trott

Kim,youaretrulyaninspirationtoeveryonearoundyou!Allofussendourloveandprayerstoyouandyoursduringthistime.Thinkingofyouandprayingforyoudaily.Your James Wood Family

Trulyoneofthegreatpeopleinthe/ourhockeycommunity.Tim Zemens

Kim,youaresuchanamazingwoman.Youhavetouchedthelivesofsomanypeopleinthiscommunity.Thankyou!Lindsy Thomas

Youaresuchanamazingpersonandaninspirationtosomany!Gail Jones

Youareinmythoughtsandprayers.Youaretrulyarolemodelforusall.Brenda Morgan

Ourthoughtsandprayersarewithyouandyourlovedonesduringthisdifficulttime.SeeingyoursmileonthispagebringsbackthegazilliontimesIhaveseenthatsmileatmeetings,events,restaurants.Sharingyourwarmthandstrengthwithusallviathatsmile!Pat Slayton

Irealizenowthatangelsliveamongus.I’msothankful,soverythankfultoknowone.Iloveyou,Kim.TC Baker

Kim,pleaseknowthatCraigandIandourentireteamareliftingyouupinprayer.Youmeansomuchtous.Kim Bagley

Yourstrength,desireanddeterminationhavebeenatestamentofloveandfaithallshalltakelessonsfrom.Mayalltheprayersandlovebetrulyfocusedonapersonthathasgivenmorethanshetakes.Youareloveandareloved,knowthatnowandforever.George Landis

Yourcourageandstrengthinspiresusall.Mary Hlavinka Williams

IloveyouBigSis!!YoutrulyaretheGeorgeBaileyofWiseCounty,touchingandimpactingthelivesofSOmany.Deborah Reynolds

Youareanamazinglighttoallthosearoundyou!Marianne Hogge Henderson

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Thoughts of Kim…

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DREAM BIGby Emily Shackelton

WhenIwasalittlegirlIsworethatIwouldchangetheworld

WhenIgrewupNothingelsewouldbeenough

Backthenitallseemedblackandwhite

ButthesedaysIjustcan’tseemTofindthechildinme,Whoalwaysbelieved

IseeiteverydayWesettleforsafe

Andloseourselvesalongtheway

Butifyoudon’tdreambigWhat’stheuseindreamingIfyoudon’thavefaith,

There‘snothingworthbelievingIttakesonehopetomakethe

starsworthreachingfor

ThiswasKim’sthemesong.HearitonYouTubeathttp://youtube.com/watch?v=ODHP_Rf4Ke0.

will continue in its regular format.

KimTinkham’slegacyofWiseFamilyMagazinewillcontinuewiththesupportofthemerchantsandtheWiseCountycommunityatlarge.AgreatbigTHANKYOUtoallwhocontributedonlineandatthebenefit–thosefundswillenablethismagazinethatKimlovedtocontinue.

Merchants: Plan now for your Spring advertising!February 20 is advertising deadline for the March issue.

Pleasesubmitadcopyto:[email protected]

Parents & Kids: Send your photos to us. Show us how your holidays were spent; how your teams are doing; and your own proud accomplishments…

Tosubmit:[email protected]@wisefamilymagazine.com