February 2020 ALT Magazine by ALT Magazine

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Falling In Love With GEORGE & MARTHA MERRILL

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As and my my house housewe wewill willserve servethe theLord. Lord. As for for me me and (Joshua24:15) 24:15) (Joshua

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FALLING IN LOVE WITH GEORGE & MARTHA MERRILL

THE MERRILL'S

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From the Publisher Every year in February, the world pauses and thinks about who they love. For some, that is their spouse or significant other. For others, that is their pets. And sometimes that is just their close friends who become a part of their extended family.

young people who I love with all my heart. My “stepdaughter,” Miranda, is also an amazing young woman. (She isn’t technically my stepdaughter, but she lives in my heart as one of my children.) I am not sure how I was blessed with three such wonderful children, but God knows.

I have been so very lucky to have my husband in my life for over 30 years. Yes, we celebrated our 30th anniversary this past November with a trip to Montana, a place we both love. Over the years, Mike and I have become more close than the day we married. In fact, just last night, he was telling me that I was so much more beautiful than I was the day we got married and he loved me more than ever. If you know Mike, you know that he is NOT a romantic and I almost started crying when he said that. (I’m thinking he is mellowing in his old age! LOL) I can say that although he drives me crazy at times, just like I know I drive him crazy, I love him more today than that day 30 years ago when we said “I do.”

The past week, I have been helping a friend with the loss of her pet of 11 years. She has been absolutely devastated. I totally understand her grief, and she knows I do. My dogs are my babies. They may not be human, but to me, they are still my babies. For those who don’t have a pet, you may not understand. But those of us that do, know exactly what we go through. She is now doing better, with the help of a new baby, and maybe a little bit because of the help and compassion of a good friend.

I am so happy we get to highlight my friends, George and Martha Merrill. They have also been married for some time. They, just like us, have had their ups and downs, and have stuck together through them all. They are so much fun to watch interacting together – and I wish everyone could see the funny pictures I took of them when we did their photo shoot. They are hysterical! But those photos are what they are. Fun, loving, caring, and accepting. I love that. You can see the love they have for each other in every photo. Children are obviously such a wonderful source of love for most parents. My two, Jaclyn and Michael, have both grown into outstanding 08

In addition to your family, find a church you feel like is family to you. A church family can be one of the strongest support systems you can have. They will check on you, pray for you, laugh with you, and be there for you. If you are looking for a church, please visit Christian Warriors Church. This is an amazing church with a ministry of serving others. Come see the difference for yourself. Love is everywhere. Whether it is for a spouse, a significant other, a child, a friend or a pet. Make sure you treasure that love. It is what I live for. I hope you do, too. Happy Valentine’s Day. May God bless you.

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Falling In Love With GEORGE & MARTHA MERRILL

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LOVE IS IN THE AIR. By: Anne Granado

In you, I've found the

love of my life and my closest, truest friend Most people never know when love will find them. It seems that people search and search for love only to have it surprise them when they least expect it. The same could be said for George and Martha Merrill who met at Wal-Mart in Magnolia, Arkansas. George Merrill’s father was in the military, so he moved around a lot, but he graduated from high school in Hope, Arkansas, and then attended and graduated from Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia, Arkansas. He was working his way through college as a stockman for the Magnolia, Arkansas, Wal-Mart when he first saw Martha in “Action Alley,” the middle display section of the store that featured square bins for clothing and high profit items. “We were straightening the blue jean bins and returning merchandise to their proper locations. I thought she was ‘smokin hot’ and made a comment about tight fitting jeans,” George says. “Her response to my comment was immediate and not what I expected. It seemed almost like a challenge which I gladly accepted.” A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0

Martha was taken aback at first as the humor and boldness of George. She says they started dating because he asked her, but he stole her heart when he sent her flowers anonymously at work. “I thought that was so sweet. I really do believe that God brought us together. I was going through a divorce and dealing with a few issues, and George was my best friend through it all. He listened to me and loved me, anyway. He used to tell me I had to go through what I did to get to him,” Martha says. “I am also a colon cancer survivor and George was a great help during my recovery from surgery and the six months of chemo that followed. To this day he is overprotective of me and is always thankful for God bringing me through that major health issue.” The two covertly dated because it was against Wal-Mart policy for co-workers to “fraternize.” However, one day, the manager called George aside and told him that he was fired. “They said, ‘Surely you would rather go than for us to fire Martha.’ I said, ‘Sure, but are you firing the other ten employees who are seeing each other?” George says. “I started naming some names, and they decided to let me keep my job!” When George graduated from SAU, he left Magnolia to take a job as a management trainee at State First National Bank. His twin brother, Billy, allowed George to stay at his Haystack apartment for free during the first six months of his employment. “Each evening after work, my truck wanted to drive me to Magnolia,” George

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says. “I knew she was the one early in the relationship, but it became even more apparent when I moved away.”

Bank. “I am surrounded by a great team of Bankers with seven locations within the Texarkana area,” George says.

George wishes there was a romantic story of his proposal, but he says that he proposed in his apartment on one knee, praying she would say yes. “I knew when he asked that the answer was yes,” Martha says. “He had shown me that he cared in so many ways. I knew he would be a great husband.”

Martha stayed at home as a full-time mom with their two children. Melanie is now 29, and is a teacher at College Hill Elementary. She is married to David, and they have two sons: Zachary (4) and Ethan (10 months). The Merrills also have a son, Matthew. He attended University of Arkansas for three years, and is finishing his R.N. degree at TAMU-Texarkana. “Our kids are amazing, and I really give credit to Martha for that,” George says. “Our daughter, Melanie, has a heart for kids, and Matthew wants to help serve others with his R.N. degree.”

“I proposed in my apartment on one knee, praying she would say yes... and the answer was yes!”

The couple got married at Dow Lake House near Magnolia, Arkansas, on August 23, 1986. “Our wedding was simple but very nice. I did not want a big church wedding, and our funds were limited, so we picked an outside venue,” Martha says. “It was an outside wedding in the middle of August but under the pavilion. It was a beautiful day with family and close friends. I remember there were geese flying by the pond that served as the background for the wedding ceremony.” After the wedding, George enrolled in East Texas State University (TAMU-Texarkana) and graduated with an MBA. He is currently the Texarkana Community Bank President for BancorpSouth

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Even though the kids are nearly grown, George says that he and Martha have not yet been able to appreciate an “empty nest.” Martha works as a full time Grammie. “George says that I am the CEO of the Merrill stronghold. I care for my two sweet grandson’s ages four and ten months for our daughter so they can avoid daycare. Our lives changed for the better when we had children; we both love our kids and grandkids with all our hearts,” Martha says. “I also care for a sweet

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"When times are hard, we lean on each other and lean on Jesus. We are a family built on faith. Whether it’s cancer or f inancial problems, we have learned to lean on Jesus.”

little six-year-old girl named Annistyn. She thinks she is my granddaughter because I have cared for her since she was three months old.” Though the two do not have as much time to travel or go on dates as they would like to, they are enjoying time with their close-knit family. At home, they love to watch Dancing with the Stars together, and when they get a night away, they like to go eat at Ironwood Grill or go see a movie. They would love to travel more, and George took Martha to Hawaii for their 30th wedding anniversary. “For us, love is more in the little things than in big gestures,” George says. “Anyone can buy flowers, for us, it’s more about the unexpected and creative ways we can show each other love.” In a world where the great percentage of marriages end in divorce, George and Martha credit their 34 years together to their faith and their steady love for each other. When times are hard, we lean on each other and lean on Jesus. We are a family built on faith. Whether it’s cancer or financial problems, we have learned to lean on Jesus,” George says. “My wife is a little prayer warrior; I’m not anywhere near as good as she is. I really married well.” A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0

August 23, 1986

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For Martha, the best advice she can give is to make a good choice from the beginning. She says that though she has a previous divorce in her story, she learned that the next time, she needed to not commit to anyone until she was sure it was right. This is the same advice that she gave her daughter Melanie before she got married. “I remember Melanie coming to me when she was dating David, and she asked me how to know if someone was the one. I told her that you know in your heart. You can say you love him, but can you wash the dirty socks and the laundry and everything that comes with that love? Can you commit to having open communication and finding similar interests?” Martha says. “To this day, George and I struggle with communication. It is easy to assume what the other is thinking, but then we find out we are both wrong. We should just put it out in the open and talk about it together. But, that’s the thing, you have to go in committed to working all this out and knowing that you are going to stay. God has to be involved in the relationship as well. He is where we go to for our answers when times get tough.” Lessons that they have learned from their own experiences in love and marriage are ones that they have sought to emulate with their kids. George says that a man needs balance in his

life, and it is a hard thing to accomplish. “Kind words go a long way in a relationship. I explained it to my son this way. I grabbed an egg from the refrigerator, and I placed it in my son’s hand. I pulled him over to the sink and wrapped my hand around his. I told him that every harsh word tightens my grip around your hand and therefore around the egg in your hand,” George says. “Eventually the harsh words multiple and the eggs has only one option – to crack. After the egg cracked, I asked my son whether he could repair the egg. His answer was, ‘No, Dad.’ I told him the egg is like a woman’s heart, nothing can repair the damage sustained by harsh words and actions.”

GEORGE AND MARTHA'S TIPS FOR MAKING MARRIAGE LAST:

GEORGE

● A man once told me that the best advice to is learn how to mind. He said to learn how to say three things: “Yes ma’am,” “It’s all my fault,” and “Of course, it’s all my fault.” He says if you know that, you will survive, but I still haven’t learned it that well. ● Ok, in all seriousness, do something unexpected. It’s the little things. When you leave in the morning, spell out “I love you” with the Q tips, or put a note in their lunch. ● Be creative. ● Lean on Jesus.

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MARTHA

● Always have open communication with each other. ● Work out your differences. ● Be committed to being the other person’s best friend. ● Find out their love language. ● Buy their favorite food and drinks at the store. ● Cook their favorite meals. ● Call them in the middle of the day. ● Think about their needs. George is having to watch his salt intake, so I’m learning how to cook meals he can eat...even though I miss the salt! ● Make sure God is involved in your marriage! A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0

THE MERRILL'S.

Family pictures by: Anita Peek Photography

full-course meal, no line and no wait. It’s been their tradition for over 10 years. However, for them, love doesn’t boil down to one day. Their faith in God and faith in each other is a part of every day, both good and bad. “My wife is my life, and I have no idea why she has stayed by my side all of these years,” George says. “Her faith is deeply rooted in her love for Jesus and family, and I consider myself blessed to be called her husband.”

George also recounts Melanie’s actions after Martha was diagnosed with colon cancer. Melanie was marching in the band, working a job, and trying to graduate at the time. But, George remembers when Melanie quit the band and worked harder to help her parents. “You know, Martha and I have never split up. We’ve never thrown anything at each other. We’ve never hit each other. We wanted to show our kids that mom and dad were married forever. Commitment is something they’ve seen in our lives,” George says. “We don’t just preach it. We live it, and I know that Melanie was showing that same commitment in high school, and we see it now as she is a wife and mother. You can’t teach your kids about love and marriage; they have to see it in your lives.” As Valentine’s Day approaches, George and Martha will celebrate with their annual visit to Silverspoon. They love the intimate atmosphere, wonderful A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0

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3620 Richmond Rd Texarkana, TX 75503 A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0

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NAAMAN'S CHAMPIONSHIP BBQ BRINGING KILLER QUALITY & EXPERIENCE TO TEXARKANA. When Darby Neaves speaks about Naaman’s, his passion for the craft, the food, and the restaurant comes across in every word. I am not entirely sure the man can tell a lie. He may try to, but I’m guessing that he would turn around and come right back to your table to set it straight. The only thing that is hard to decipher is whether his trademark adjective “killer,” applied to most everything coming out of his new location, is to believed, and to solve that mystery, one only needs to cross the threshold at the new location at Stateline Avenue and see. The new menu has every item that people love at Naaman's: mouth-watering brisket, homemade sausage, and cheesecake. But, Darby has also added a full-bar, dry aged steaks, unique salads, peach cobbler, banana pudding and more, all set within Naaman’s signature “old-school cool” vibe. It is important to Darby to remain true to the brand they have set for Naaman’s. This brand is everything that Darby, Patti, and Naaman Neaves have built since 2012 when they set up shop in a food truck parked in Ashdown, Arkansas. Darby and Patti started their legacy in BBQ competitions. They won numerous trophies and recognition for their barbeque. However, Darby has always hesitated to display them. “Trophies are just relics of what you did yesterday, they have nothing to do with what is going on today,” Darby says. “We are continually growing and changing. I want the brand to speak for itself.” As Naaman’s BBQ reputation started spreading, the team was asked to cater. As the catering jobs grew larger and more frequent, Patti told Darby that they were getting a place or they were going to quit. “She was tired of working out of our kitchen,” Darby says. “We got a food truck in New

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York, and everything grew from there. This is our family business. My wife has worked as hard as I have, and our son has been working in the store since the very first day. Though, he’s never worked a day in the kitchen that he wasn’t paid for. He earns his own way.” From the beginning, Darby wanted the brand for Naaman’s to be about an experience and not just the food. “I never tried to market bbq; I just tried to brand Naaman’s,” Darby says. “I want people to experience emotions when they see my logo. If you’ve noticed, I always try to make people smile in my ad. I want to make you feel. That’s my philosophy on advertising, and that’s what we’ve tried to create for Naaman’s.” Darby, Patti and Naaman loved the old store that they were leasing on Stateline. However, the lack of space meant that they were still having to use the food truck as a serving kitchen. So, when Buc-ee’s convenience stores decided to buy up property in Texarkana, including the store Darby was leasing, he looked for property close to the interstate to continue his business. Naaman’s BBQ does a lot of shipping, so remaining near the interstate was key. They found the building across the street which had been home to Shoney’s and then Pizza Inn before closing. Darby looked at the building and saw potential. Now, the renovated space is transforming their small BBQ joint into a full-service restaurant with five on-site smokers. “At the old place, you walked up and ordered, and at the new store, you can sit down and your food is brought to you by a full wait staff,” Darby says. “We were able to seat 50, but now we can seat 140. We have a semi-private room that can be closed off, and we built a 20 x 48 size smokehouse in the back where we can cook 130 briskets at a time if we need to.”

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3 Inch Thick, 32 oz Cowboy Ribeye, 60 Day Dry Aged The menu has also changed at the new restaurant. Though the standbys and favorites still grace the menu, Darby took advantage of the expanded kitchen to also expand their offerings. To him, bringing something new and different to Texarkana was the goal. This drove him to purchase a very special grill. It’s a Grill Works Inferno Series 5th generation made in Michigan. The grill incorporates several grill stations and industrial grade chain and gear lift mechanisms to help raise and lower meat closer to a fire of pecan wood and oak lump charcoal. It was designed by a man who fell in love with Argentinian cuisine, which centers around live fire cooking. These grills are sold to restaurants around the world. When Darby purchased the 5th generation, the two grills before his had gone to Dubai and Switzerland. The purchase of the grill opened up doors for Darby that he never imagined. “I was invited to New York and Detroit to work in two major restaurant kitchens. I was working 16-18 hours a day prepping and cooking and learning about how these restaurants operate. They were so free in giving me knowledge and providing me with new opportunities” Darby says. “I’ve never been around such professionals in my life. Every detail was perfect. From the hostess who greets you, to the wait staff, to the timing on the line, everything worked together to create a dining experience. There were no excuses.” Because of his contacts with Grillworks and the two restaurants where he trained, Darby was able to order his meat from Purely Meats, a Chicago meat provider that serves Prime and Proper in Detroit. This restaurant in particular made a lasting impression on Darby. He flew to Detroit to eat there, and though his reservation was at 5, they didn’t leave until 10:15. Not only was Darby inspired by his dinner, he was captivated by the idea that this was the kind of experience he wanted to share with Texarkana. “I have 020

the most killer customers and staff. They want the best. Prime and Proper is one of the best steakhouses in the nation, and now I’m able to get the same quality meat and serve it here. There are three levels of choice beef and three levels of prime, and I am ordering the top tier of all USDA prime,” Darby says. “I brought out a raw steak the other day to show a peer, and their jaw dropped. The quality of the meat and marbling is like nothing we’ve seen. No one could tell the difference between it and Wagyu, but the cost is high. Ordering this meat makes everything I do more expensive because beef is at a six year high right now. But, as the market drops, so will my prices. However, I’m not going to apologize for my prices. I know what I’m serving, and I want to share this with my customers.” Darby doesn’t want to be misunderstood. He won’t name drop in the magazine. The interview was littered with “don’t put this in there.” He wants to be proud of what he does, but he doesn’t want to sound too proud. He wants to be the best, but he’s not saying he is the best. He’s not bragging about the meat, but he’s saying that it’s quality and it’s expensive. He tells the story about a Texarkana customer who came in, saw the steaks, and did a dance. “I asked him what that was all about. He said, I don’t have to go to Peter Luger’s to get a good steak anymore,” Darby says. “I just don’t want to get less quality so that I can charge cheaper prices. I’m thinking about having a sign made for the restaurant that says, ‘Fact: Naaman’s has never claimed to be a cheap piece of meat.’” On the menu, you can find several dry aged cuts: porterhouse, Kansas City strips, cowboy ribeyes, and tomahawks. You can also find wet aged cuts: filets, bone-in and boneless ribeyes, and New York strips. Darby bought an aging cabinet from Italy for the meat, but is finding that he has to order more aged meat from Purely Meats just to keep up with demand. “A A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0

Danny Christian, Darby Neaves, and James Atchley Danny, from Penelope, Texas, is a current member of Southern Exposer, a competition cook team. James is a Texarkana, Arkansas Police Captain.

Darby, Patti, and Naaman Neaves

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customer recommended that we turn our backyard commercial kitchen into an aging room,” Darby says. “We just might look into that. I just want our town to be proud of what we do and what we can bring to the table.” However, you do not have to spend big to enjoy big flavors at Naaman’s. They have added a chicken fried ribeye that puts a great spin on an old classic, added a wedge salad with bourbon reduction and gorgonzola dressing, and a caesar salad inspired from Prime and Proper. Darby is even ordering his white anchovies from Italy. The house salad has pickled grapes and red onion, and all their dressings are made from scratch. “Our croutons are killer. We have sausage croutons! We just want our salads, and really everything on the menu, to be different, but killer,” Darby says. The menu also includes the Cheesy Cow sandwich featuring beef and cheddar, and handcut crinkle-cut fries. “I tried these fries at Prime and Proper, and I loved them. Everyone has hand-cut fries, but no one does crinkle cut,” Darby says. “What I learned is that the smallest detail can set you apart. The smallest detail can make all the difference.” One thing you will not find at Naaman’s is steak sauce. Darby says the meat is seasoned with salt and pepper, and then the grill does all the talking. When the steaks come off the grill, they are finished with Jacobson Finishing Salt, a high-quality, handharvested product from Oregon. “We hit the steak with the salt and send it out. I may look into making a homemade sauce, but I will never serve a commercial sauce,” Darby says. To go with the new items, Darby is working on a wine list by consulting with local experts. “I’m not a wine guy, yet,” Darby says. “But I’ve learned that if you get people who know their stuff, everything can come together in a great way. We are serving from a full-bar now, and we have killer signature drinks.” Though they are trying a lot of new things and still working out all the kinks, Darby is positive that Naaman’s is going to offer customers a full dining experience. “We will never be Prime and Proper. I don’t want to be them. I want to be us,”

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Darby says. “I want to focus on hospitality. We aren’t serving food; we are providing an experience, and every detail matters. You can have food without the service, but people won’t come. If you want to be known for the best, you have to have it all. We’ve got a long way to go on all of it, but I will not stop until we get there.” A lot may have changed for Naaman’s, but some things remain the same. The meat and sides that people love are still on the menu, and they are all available surrounded with the antiques and trademark finds that are synonymous with what people expect from Naaman’s. The new store includes favorites from the old store and new pieces like a painting from late 1600’s, a statue from 1860 Paris, a vase from the 1906 exposition in Paris, and a bench from 1850. Where do Darby and Patti find their “old school cool” decor? “We bought a

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lot from Bath Row House Antiques in Hot Springs, a place owned by the McFarlands,” Darby says. “Last time we saw them, they said, ‘Y’all have become the best customers we’ve ever had!’ Through the process, we’ve become good friends with their family.” Darby may have grown from his experiences in larger commercial kitchens, but his vision and drive are the same. Darby pushes himself to find the best techniques, the best meat, the best recipes and bring it all to the Texarkana food scene. His desire to perfect his craft comes from his love of the food and the family it’s named for. “My son was three when we used his name in competitions. I always told myself that if someone was going to ruin that name, I wanted it to be him and not me,” Darby says. “This business, the brand, the name, these are worth more to me than money. I never dreamed seven years ago that we would be where we are at, but our customers know what quality and excellence is, and they keep coming. They are the reason why we are able to do what we do. We won’t ever reach perfection, but that’s my goal.” Naaman’s BBQ is open Monday-Wednesday 10:30 a.m.9:00 p.m. and Thursday-Saturday 10:30 a.m.-10:00 p.m. Reservations are recommended for Thursday-Saturday evenings.

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I love you with everything I am, everything I've been, and everything I hope to be. I love you with my past, and I love you for my future, and for the years we'll have together. I love you for every one of my smiles and even more, for every one of yours. -Julia Quinn

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Nick & Hannah Adams A pril 27, 2019 028

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Our Story After moving from Australia to Texas to Arkansas, Nick and I met in college. After being friends for a few years Nick graduated and moved back home to Texarkana. One day he came back to visit friends and ever since then our adventure began. We started dating November 2016, countless conversations later our friendship turned into something we could not live without. When she talked, he listened. When he moved, she followed. Ever since then we have been inseparable. After a year and a half of dating we went to San Francisco to visit his brother with his family. I have always wanted to go to San Francisco to see the Golden Gate Bridge and that is where he proposed to me; it was the most magical day, clear skies and perfect weather besides the wind. A memory we will never forget!

Parents of the Bride: Beau and Ricki Watson Parents of the Groom: Raymond and Susan Adams Matron/Maid of Honor: Alexandra Forster Bridesmaids: Lara Martin and Brittany Smith Best Man: Nathan Adams Groomsmen: Blakely Sanders and Brady Teer Pastor / Officiant: John Watson Flowers: H & N Floral Hair : Suzie Martin Venue: Garrison Gardens Wedding Coordinator: Karen Guilbert Reception Decorations: Karen Guilbert Cake: The Cake Boutique Caterer: Garrison Gardens DJ: Chuck Guilbert Photographer: Marissa Merritt Wedding Invitations: Minted.com Wedding Dress: Gracyn Elizabeth Bride Wedding Jewelry: Cockers Jewelers Tuxedos: Gracyn Elizabeth Bride

My day was special because...

What made this day so amazing is that two families from different countries became one. My family was able to make it all the way from Australia and all of Nick's family was there to share the love as well. We celebrated all night long with lots of dancing, many photographs, and lots of congratulations. We could not have asked for a better day/night to share our love with our family and friends.

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A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0

Elect

Jeff

NEAL for

S H E RI F F

Working Hard to Best Serve Bowie County 30 years of law enforcement experience, 26 years in Bowie County 16 years of experience in law enforcement supervision and administration Chief Deputy of Bowie County Sheriff’s Office for the past six years Four year of service in the United States Army Military Police Corps Bachelor of Applied Arts and Science, Texas A&M University - Texarkana First Bowie County deputy to complete Leadership Command College as part of the 82nd graduating class, Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas School of Police Supervision, Institute of Law Enforcement Administration Master Peace Officer Certification Jailer Certification Instructor Proficiency Over 5,500 total continuing education hours Member and deacon at FBC Texarkana Married to my beautiful wife Tiffani for 26 years Two Children, Tori, 22, a 2nd year Doctorate of Physical Therapy student at the University of Central Arkansas and Caleb, 17, a junior at Liberty-Eylau High school

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FEBRUARY 18 - 28, 2020

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Kyle & Shelby Akin November 24, 2019

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Our Story

Kyle moved to Texarkana in June of 2017 after accepting a job at Haltom & Doan along with Cole Riddell, a close friend from law school. Shortly thereafter, Kyle and Shelby met at a Fourth of July party at Cole and Shane Riddell’s house. Cole and Shane were longtime friends with Shelby and, unbeknownst to Kyle, they (along with other close friends Andrew and Shelby McElhany) were trying to set them up the entire time. They enjoyed seeing each other in their group of friends on and off while Kyle settled into his new job and hometown. On New Year’s Eve, Shelby convinced a close friend, Amelie Karam, to be her wingman at a party at the McElhany’s house to see if she thought Kyle actually liked her. Everyone had a great time at the New Year’s Party, and Kyle asked Shelby to dinner at Twisted Fork five days later, on January 5, 2018, which Shelby accepted despite having just eaten. Fun fact – Amelie ended up meeting her future husband, Jackson Tidwell, at that same New Year’s Party. Kyle and Shelby quickly fell in love. Although not spoken at that time, they both realized their love for each other on the same birthday trip for Shelby in March of 2018 to Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards in Pittsbug, TX, with the Riddells and McElhanys. After 13 months of dating, Kyle asked Shelby to marry him (while Debbie Brower hid in the bushes taking pictures) before celebrating their engagement with friends and family at Kyle’s house afterwards. Kyle and Shelby were blessed by friends and family who celebrated them with engagement parties, dinners, and celebrations. On November 24, 2019, they had a small, intimate destination wedding at DeLoach Vineyards in Santa Rosa, CA, surrounded by immediate family. Following the intimate wedding, they had a wonderful Parents of the Bride: Roger and Teresa DeMuth, Janis DeMuth honeymoon in Hawaii before returning home to Parents of the Groom: Randy and Lynne Akin Texarkana, TX, as newlyweds! Pastor/Officiant: Jimmy Donaghy Flowers: Dragonfly Floral Hair & Make-up: Whimsy Bridal Styling Venue: DeLoach Vineyards Wedding Coordinator: Run Away With Me/Kalika Casady Cake: Mapi's Cakes Caterer: Cook and The Drummer Rentals: Encore Rentals Photographer: Run Away With Me/Stephanie Winship Ceremony Music: Bella Rosa Wedding Dress: Enaura, Neiman Marcus Wedding Jewelry: Alexander’s Jewelers Tuxedos: Herwitz, Longview, TX

My day was special because...

We loved spending a few days touring wine country with close family before the wedding. It gave our family the opportunity to bond, and we were able to enjoy our destination as a couple and new family before getting married.

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WE ARE STARTING A MOVEMENT JOIN US.

Love God. Serve Others. Teach Truth.

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Sunday Services, 10 am Veritas Academy, 2101 E 50th St, Texarkana, AR 71854

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Carey & Michelle Brooks December 7, 2019 036

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Our Story

We met when he started attending my church. Late one night he waved at me through Facebook Messenger and I was really shocked that he did! I have MS and when we first met I was having to use a cane when I walked. I just thought that no one would want to "sign-up for this". I had accepted that I would be alone for the rest of my life, but the Lord had a different plan for me. After talking, we both realized we are so much alike in the way we think. We both feel that we were made for each other! I truly believe that the Lord sent him into my life. He makes me so happy! I haven't had to use my cane to walk, starting with our first date. Over a year later, still no cane. After only four months, he proposed to me. I'm so thankful that we have both found one true love!

Parents of the Bride: Gary Atwood & Dolores Hildebrand Parents of the Groom: Jimmy Brooks & Janet Mosier Maid of Honor: Lauren Wilson Bridesmaids: Mikki Faulknor, Santana Wilson, and Cindy Hale Best Man: Jimmy Brooks Groomsmen: Ricky Brooks, Chris Brooks, and Clint Brooks Flower Girl: Adalynn Brooks Ring Bearer: Brantley Brooks Pastor/Officiant: Darren Faulknor Flowers: Heavenly Sweets & Interior Treats Hair & Make-up: Evie Johnson / Bombshell Salon Venue: Garrison Gardens Wedding Coordinator: Karen Guilbert Cake: Heavenly Sweets & Interior Treats Caterer: Garrison Gardens DJ: Chuck Guilbert Rentals: Dot's Rentals Photographer: Bryan Jefferies Videographer: Fresh Focus Films / Bryan Jefferies Wedding Dress: David's Bridal Wedding Jewelry: David's Bridal and Zale's Tuxedos: Gracyn Elizabeth Bride

My day was special because... Our wedding day just felt like a fairy tale dream come true. I felt like a princess all day.

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Celebrate in a perfect setting and enjoy our stunning spaces. Silvermoon on Broad is a unique wedding venue in the heart of downtown Texarkana.

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Historic Downtown Texarkana West Broad at Texas Blvd. Texarkana, TX 039

J.D. & Alexis Crabtree December 15, 2019

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Our Story

J.D. and I have known each other since elementary school. In the seventh grade, we had many classes together, and we became super close friends. At the beginning of our eighth-grade year, J.D. asked me out multiple times until I finally agreed to date him on January 18, 2013. Ever since that day, we have been inseparable. Because J.D. and I have been together since the eighth grade, we have been blessed to be a part of each other’s accomplishments in life. From graduations to birthdays, we have spent it all together for a little over seven years. On April 11, 2018, J.D. took me on a picnic to Bringle Lake Park where he proposed to me; it was such a sweet moment. I remember him telling me later that day he was nervous that I was not going to say, “yes”, but of course I was going to! He is the love of my life and other half. I could not imagine our lives without one another in them because we complete each other. It is crazy to think that J.D. and I have been together since middle school, and now we are so blessed to be married to one another! I am so thankful that we get to spend forever together as one, and I am so blessed and thankful to be married to the love of my life! We have made so many memories together these past seven years, but we cannot wait for the many more we are going to make as a married couple for the rest of our lives!

Parents of the Bride: Josh and Tina Lewis Parents of the Groom: Dale and Shawna Crabtree Matron/Maid of Honor: Ariel Crabtree Bridesmaids: Haley Lewis, Arrionna Stout, Natalie Lewis, Taylor Davis, and August Huff Best Man: Caden Russette Groomsmen: Hunter Lewis, Madison Long, Jordan Lewis, Lane Coker, and Cameron Rawlinson Flower Girl: Ansleigh Rothery and Alyvia Huff Ring Bearer: Beckett Shaffer Pastor / Officiant: Jeff Odom Flowers: Albertsons- Stateline Hair & Make-Up: Courtney Foster / Studio 360 Hair Salon Texarkana Venue: Garrison Gardens Wedding Coordinator: Karen Guilbert Cake: Robin Hamnett’s Cakes Caterer: The Potato Patch and Marjorie Slimer DJ: Chuck Guilbert Rentals: Dot’s Rentals Photographer: Kendal Dockery Photography By the time we were juniors in high school, J.D. and I both knew that we would Videographer: Eric’s Xtreme Video get married one day. J.D. bought the engagement ring our junior year of high Wedding Invitations: Basic Invite school, and I never knew it until he proposed three years later! Our wedding day Wedding Dress: Gracyn Elizabeth Bride was special because it was the beginning of our forever as one! We waited so Wedding Jewelry: Dillard’s long for our wedding day, and we were both so ready to finally be married. Also, Tuxedos: Gracyn Elizabeth Bride

My day was special because...

our wedding day was special because we had all our sweet family and friends there to celebrate our marriage with us. It is a day that we will truly never forget.

A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0

0 41

t c e l E Kyle B.

Barrett

for County

Commissioner Precinct 3

Early Voting - Feb. 18-28 Election Day - March 3, 2020

Kyle Barrett’s desire for a better tomorrow for our community is paramount. We need county officials with integrity to do what’s reasonable and cost effective for Bowie County. We believe Kyle Barrett to be that person. His integrity of work and leadership has been recognized in numerous business aspects and his success rate in optimizing productivity has been profound. Kyle is no stranger to hard work; his work ethics are immeasurable. If we were looking for a team player and more importantly a team leader, Kyle Barrett would be my choice. His passion for what’s right and fair for all people is exemplified in every aspect of his character. We believe Kyle Barrett to be the person to make tremendous improvements for Bowie County. We strongly support Kyle B. Barrett to be your next county commissioner. We are hunting for a new commissioner. - John and Judy Pommer - New Boston, TX

We have known the Barrett’s all our lives. Kyle’s dad, Dale Barrett, was the road commissioner for years in Bowie County and the best one, by far, Bowie County ever had. So as the old saying goes, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. We think Kyle will be a chip off the old block. He definitely has our vote!! - Jimmy and Julie Williams - Hooks, TX

ON THE ROAD TO A BETTER BOWIE COUNTY Conservative Republican Leadership 903.748.3524

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A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0 Facebook.com/BarrettforPCT3

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Cory & Christy Phillips December 7, 2019

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Our Story

How it all began: Christy and Cory’s love story began on a hot sunny day with a message saying “You’re so beautiful to me!” Flattered, Christy accepted Cory’s invite for their first date at Osakas. After a few more dates filled with good vibes and laughter, their relationship continued to grow! Who knew the start of a friendship would turn into a fairy tale of love! When we fell in love: One warm July afternoon, Cory decided to invite Christy on a date. Knowing that she'd be late, he told her to be at his house at exactly 7:00 PM. Surprisingly, Christy made it on time, only to find that no one was home. Instead, Cory had left a note on his door that read "It was O'so good P.S. our very first date". The scavenger hunt had officially begun! Christy quickly made her way to Osaka, were Cory's friend Craig was waiting on her with the second clue "It's only a hop away". Realizing the second clue was referring to another date location, Christy made her way to Hopkin's Ice House Restaurant. Cory's friend JB had the third clue "It rhymes with Cringle". Speeding down I-30 heading to Bringle Lake Park, Christy finally made it to the last location. Waiting was a beautiful candle lit dinner, some juicy grilled steaks, and the most amazing man EVER-Corvette Phillips! How did she get so blessed! After dinner, Christy received the fourth and final card, which read "Will you be my girlfriend?" The Proposal: January 17, 2019, on a hot Thursday afternoon, Christy decided to randomly surprise Cory with balloons, cupcakes, candles, and a gift. She was extremely excited because he simply had no idea! When Cory and the kids made it to the location, they were extremely surprised to see all the amazing things Christy had put together! While Cory stood in the background, Christy decided to turn around and open up his gift to show him what awaited. Once Christy turned back around, she found Cory on one knee, a big gorgeous diamond ring, and the kids cheesing from ear to ear. While the kids watched, Cory took Christy by the hand and he confessed his love for her. After his lovely speech, Cory and his children asked Christy "Will you marry us?" Excited and emotional, Christy said YES!!!

Parents of the Bride: Labricha and Christopher Collins Sr. Parents of the Groom: Delores Jackson Maid of Honor: Ashley Haynes and SheAmber Isom Bridesmaids: Joy Edwards, Tiffany Falls, Keshia LeShaw, Anassza Williams, Chloe Sims, Brandi Madlock, and Shawanna Plant Best Man: Eben Daniels and Ken Linwood Groomsmen: Fred Washington, Robert James, Marcell Owens, Marcus Williams, Chris Collins Jr., Phillip Ramey, Jabari Jackson, Marvin Valladeres, and Craig Jenkins Ushers: Shacody Williams and Logan Williams Flower Girls: Gracelynn Phillips, Angel Collins, Christian Collins, Skylar Williams, and Kaylee Williams Ring Bearer: Laithen Phillips Pastor: Pastor Christopher Collins Sr.

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Decorations: Bells & Whistles Events and Planning Hair & Make-up: Tanji Hair n Harmony; Elisa Maria Makeup Artistry DJ: DJ Hollygrove Venue: The Octavia Center Wedding Coordinator: Christy Phillips Cake: Fancy Sugars Caterer: Mary Rogers Rentals: Dots Rentals Photographer: Dodson & Glover Photography Studio Videographer: McClain Media Wedding Dress: Terry Costa Wedding Jewelry: Crocker’s Jewelers Tuxedos: Mirror Me Studio

045

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Foxx & Shanna Smith December 21, 2019 048

A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0

Our Story

We met on Redwater bridge in January 2013. He was fishing, and I was backroading with friends. We did not actually start communicating with one another until February. On spring break, we became inseparable and have spoken every day since then.

Parents of the Bride: Jay and Marilyn Harrison Parents of the Groom: Jimmy and Dawn Smith Matron of Honor: Elizabeth White Maid of Honor: Brianna Harrison Bridesmaids: Ramzi Smith, Morgan Jackson, Stacy McCleskey, Audrey Rankin Best Man: Dalton O’Donnell Groomsmen: Garrison McCord, Braven Smith, Hunter Harrison, Dalton White Ushers: Landon Martin and Colin Lamb Flower Girls: Ava Loftin Ring Bearer: Addax Mills Pastor/Officiant: Eugene Adams Hair & Make-up: Cassie Brown Band: Rooftop Media Venue: Blessing Tree Farms Wedding Coordinator: Tori Culp Cake: Taste of Eden Bakery Caterer: Tamolly’s Photographer: Debbie Brower Photography Videographer: Rooftop Media Wedding Invites: Walgreens Ceremony Music: I Do by Mark Wills, On My Way To You by Cody Johnson, and To Make You Feel My Love by Garth Brooks. Wedding Dress: Gracyn Elizabeth Bridal Wedding Jewelry: all from grandparents Tuxedos: Gracyn Elizabeth Bridal A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0

My day was special because... I love my husband, but a girl’s first love is always her dad. During the father daughter dance, my dad surprised me by bringing out my old softball glove. I played softball from ages 3 to 21, and he has always been my biggest supporter. We played catch during the song, and after a few throws, he passed the glove over to Foxx. I still tear up thinking about it. It was my favorite part of the day. 049

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Finding a true tribe in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world is tough, especially for teens and young adults. Building self-confiendence within yourself at this age sometimes feels impossible and daunting. Debbie Brower recognized these challenges and quickly found a way to celebrate teens and young adults while empowering them to believe in themselves and create friendships to last a lifetime.

Erin Eppinette Activity Shoot A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0

Debbie has been a photographer in the Texarkana area for 20+ years and has many prestigious awards to back up her long running experience. While the list could go on for the awards she has received, the incredible people she has photographed, and her gorgeous wedding and senior photography, her most notable characteristic is bringing out the joy and celebrating the â&#x20AC;&#x153;quirksâ&#x20AC;? in young adults and making them feel 100% comfortable in front of the camera. In 2017, she created the DBP Model Tribe, a group of teens and Tribe young adults, that transform into models while doing creative photoshoots throughout the year. Just a photoshoot? Oh, this is so much more! These young adults are learning about poise, professional techniques, modeling, presentation, photography, and most importantly, making friends that form a tribe!

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PHOTOGRAPHY

Over 75 models have participated in the DBP Model Tribe program since it’s origination in 2017. These young ladies and gentlemen have been involved in creative and fashion shoots throughout their time on the model team. Each year, the model team is immersed in the Madison Welch fashion culture as Summer Fashion Shoot they model for highend boutiques around the Texarkana area for ALT Magazine’s fashion spreads. The models learn how to speak properly to the vendors, model particular clothing so it becomes a highdemand item, and have a positive attitude and fun time. Creative

Chloe Norwood Throwback Fashion Shoot 054

shoots are also planned throughout the year which gives the models a chance to express themselves and have the most fun! Some of the past shoots have included smoke bombs, Halloween costumes, Christmas shoots, funky-fashion shoots, and activity shoots where each model brings what represents them. The program is open to both males and females, from 7th grade through College (age 21). It runs from March 2020 to February 2021. To join, the application process is simple. Using the QR Code found in this article, an applicant can fill out the application and pay the fee. An informational Linda Lee Fall Fashion Shoot meeting is then scheduled for mid-March where the model team will meet their “tribe” and start the year off with lots of fun! As mentioned before, this program is so much more than having a pretty picture taken. It is about forming relationships, learning how to present yourself before others, making connections, not only within the tribe, but with our community, and most importantly, overcoming fear while learning to embrace your “quirks” and enjoy where you are in life right now. A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0

Emma Gamble Fall Fashion Shoot

Raichel Frye Activity Shoot

Cade Cunningham Winter Fashion Shoot

Kierseten Malone Throwback Fashion Shoot

Lexy Fowler Winter Shoot

Summer Horton Headshot

READY TO JOIN THE DBP MODEL TRIBE? You can find our model application by scanning the QR Code below. Here are a few things we require:

Abby Lewis Trash the Dress Shoot

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• Be FABULOUS, and most importantly, be YOU! • Be willing to have tons of fun and get creative! • Give props on social media and tell your friends about your fun experience with DBP! • Be polite, and remember you represent DBP at all times, even outside of photoshoots. • $300 yearly fee (don’t worry - you’ll get tons of pictures in exchange!)

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Thin Blue Line Corner Kristy Whisenhunt

How long have you been in law enforcement? What is your current job title?

Tell us your most exciting, adrenaline-pumping, moment during your law enforcement career!

I grew up in a very small community called Trevat, which is approximately 35 minutes outside Lufkin. I graduated from a super small school, Centerville, and I graduated with 23 people. I had several small jobs throughout the years, but I started working as a 401(k) Benefits Analyst in 2000. However, the company relocated my job to Austin in 2003 and I took a severance package. I decided it was time to go back to school and I decided I wanted to work in the field of CJ, as a DNA analyst. I went full time to college and graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University in 2007 with my Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice and a minor in Biology. In September 2008, I took the job at Texarkana PD as a Crime Scene Technician and my career started there. No one I work with at TAMUT believes that I wore dress clothes to work everyday because they see me in my uniform and hair pulled back all the time. That’s the short version of how I came here and got in the law enforcement field.

A call came out on BCSO channel stating a subject had just shot into a house and someone in side was hit. The subject had fled in a vehicle and Constable Lee was in the area. Constable Lee advised the subject hit his vehicle or shot at it and was fleeing east on 67. Chief Ronnie Sharp and I jumped in his unmarked and we positioned ourselves in the Scottie’s parking lot on 67. Chief advised he was going to try to shoot at his tires to try to slow him down and wanted me to just stop traffic. We were hearing the radio traffic and knew the subject was getting close. I wore plain clothes, so I had my radio in my left hand and my duty weapon in my right trying to get traffic on 67 stopped. I was literally jumping up and down in the road and thank goodness, the drivers complied. The subject came around the corner by 2148. I looked at one moment and saw him coming and in a very short amount of time, he was on us. Chief fired his shotgun and the subject was gone. It happened really quickly. It was like they say. I barely heard the shot. My adrenaline was super high. The shot didn’t stop the vehicle, so Chief and I jumped back in his vehicle and began pursuing. Several officers started joining the pursuit and we were in an unmarked, so we backed off and let the marked units take the lead. Two other officers wound up shooting at the vehicle and ultimately, the subject was taken into custody at the Wake Village circle, literally a few hundred yards from our PD. It was a great day for law enforcement.

What drew you to law enforcement? When did you want to become a police officer?

What are the greatest challenges and rewards of law enforcement?

11 years including working as a civilian crime scene technician. My current job title is Corporal for Texarkana A&M University - Texarkana.

Tell us some background: Where did you grow up? Where did you attend school? Do you have an interesting story about you?

Surprisingly, or maybe not, CSI. The show was on and I thought I wanted to be a DNA analyst, so I got my Associate’s in Biology at Angelina Junior College. When I got to SFA, I realized how much I really enjoyed talking to folks more than being in a lab. From 2006 to 2008, I worked for Nacogdoches PD and would do ride-alongs, but never truly thought about being an officer. I did know that I loved the excitement, but it really didn’t cross my mind about being an officer. After working crime scene for 4 years, it was time for a change, so I decided to go to the Police Academy. So, I’m not the normal person that wanted to be a police officer at a young age. I didn’t become an officer until I was 37.

How did your family/friends react to the news of your career choice? The only person that was a little concerned was, of course, my mother. Other than that, my husband was super supportive and just wanted me happy. My friends in general knew me well and wasn’t surprised at all that I wanted a job with some excitement involved sometimes.

Describe your first day on the job as a police officer.

Honestly, I don’t remember much other than being extremely nervous. I knew nothing about how to communicate with individuals on the street or street life in general. I also remember being scared half to death about having to talk on the radio. I was even nervous about whether I had put my uniform on correctly with my gun belt, etc.

What is the funniest moment you remember during your law enforcement career?

I would say the great challenge right now is trying to change the way people view law enforcement. We are trying to serve and protect them, not harm them. I feel like we have to try extra hard just to get people to trust us. Communication is a must in today’s police world! Another challenge is that as an officer, you have to understand that you will work hard for people and not receive a lot of recognition. The things we do on a daily basis may not seem much to some people, but we’re there if they need us. And, most of all, we keep on keeping on even if people don’t give us any recognition or thank yous because that’s what we do. I would say as far as rewards it would simply be knowing that in the grand scheme of things, I help someone on a daily basis. At TAMUT, it is important that law enforcement be really good at community policing. We help people not only by helping protect them, but also helping them in general. It may simply be by listening to a student who trusts us and wants to just sit and talk about something they’re upset about. Helping also comes in the form of making someone feel comfortable at work because we make our presence known to help them relax and feel safe at work. Knowing we make a difference, even on the small scale is an awesome feeling!

If someone were going to enroll in the Police Academy, what are three key things you’d like them to know?

First, be mentally and physically fit. Some academies don’t require fitness, but I’m telling you, it IS important! Second, learn the law as much as possible. I mean not only charges and such, but also criminal procedure. This will definitely come in handy. So, basically, STUDY. And, last but not least, have fun when it allows, such as when you’re driving and shooting. That training is super fun if you let it be.

I’m sure there were plenty because we always have fun, but I can’t recall a truly crazy, funny moment.

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What do you wish more people could realize about law enforcement?

I actually have two things that I wish people realized. First, I wish they realized just how hard being an officer can be on your family and friends due to many factors. These factors can be different or rotating shifts, stress on the officer, but also stress on the family just worrying about their officer. Secondly, I wish people realized how an officer never truly relaxes when s/he are out in public. As an officer, you must be vigilant at all times. An officer is always thinking of scenarios or looking for exits or even making sure you have the best vantage point in case something happens. His/her mind doesn’t shut off when they’re in public.

Tell us what your department does a great job of!

Definitely community policing. We help in many different areas and try our best to maintain positive relationships with students, staff and faculty. For example, one of our officers, Duane Lorance, actually took an engine partially apart to save a cat that had hitched a ride to campus from the student’s house. He didn’t have to, but he simply wanted to help. That’s what we do!

What interests do you have outside of law enforcement?

I don’t really have a hobby or anything, but I like to watch movies and chill. I also like to try to get back to my old stomping ground in Trinity County to visit family and friends.

How do you handle the stress and pressure the job brings? I have been very blessed at usually not dwelling on things, so that helps me. However, there are times that I do get stressed. During those times, I play and love on my dog more, workout, and take long, hot baths. It’s amazing what a dog can do to chill you out.

We have all heard that families play a supportive role in a police officer’s life. How does your family support you?

I cannot say enough about my husband, Monte. He’s a TX DPS Trooper, so we have a great relationship in supporting one another. It’s tough, but we’re always there for one another, even if we’re not physically there. He understands things like most non-law enforcement families don’t.

Reflecting on your time as a police officer, what is one thing this career has done for you in a positive manner?

The relationships that are built when you are an officer is on a different scale than regular relationships. You build very strong bonds with some co-workers. It’s just a different world and you depend on one another. Even if you get on each other’s nerves so bad, you know that you’ll have each other’s backs no matter what. It is truly a work family.

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STRINGER WEALTH MANAGEMENT RAYMOND JAMES FINANCIAL STRINGERWEALTHMANAGEMENT.NET

FILLING THE GAP

Before you retire, learn to create a paycheck and make the most of benefits you’ve earned

Many of us have a retirement date circled on the calendar – that glorious day we will trade in our alarm clock for a free-and-easy life filled with new possibilities and exciting adventures. Maybe you’re eager to travel. Or spend more time with family and friends. Or take up photography. Everyone has something to look forward to as that day approaches. You likely know you’ll need to work with your advisor to recreate a paycheck using some combination of Social Security, distributions from your retirement accounts, pensions, and other income sources. But before you announce to your boss and co-workers that the retirement countdown is on, a few topics are worth exploring regarding the benefits so many of us are accustomed to accessing through our employers – including health, dental, vision and life insurance. You’ll want to be sure you’ve accounted for all of your needs before the anticipated day arrives. Thinking through all the possibilities can help you prepare, especially if you are planning to retire early, before you are eligible for Medicare at age 65. If your spouse and/ or children are covered through your medical and/or dental insurance, there are additional considerations for continuing their coverage and providing for their needs. By collaborating with your financial advisor, you can develop strategies to pay for essentials such as healthcare, housing and debt obligations – and help make your retirement as stress-free and fun-filled as possible. 058

HEALTH INSURANCE People accustomed to accessing health insurance through their employers are often surprised at how costly this necessary coverage can be without an employer to help offset the cost. In 2018, the average annual premium for employer-sponsored health insurance was $6,896 for single coverage and $19,616 for family coverage, according to a Kaiser Family Foundation survey. On average, employees contributed 18% to the cost of single plans and 29% to family plans. So, be sure to explore your options and the costs associated with them. Here are a few to consider: Portable employer benefits: If you are not yet 65, the age most qualify for Medicare, inquire with someone in your human resources department about whether your employer makes benefits available to you in retirement or helps underwrite the cost of coverage. This is becoming rare these days, but if your employee benefits are portable, it likely is the easiest and most cost-effective way to access quality health insurance. Join your spouse’s plan: If your spouse is still actively working, you may want to explore coverage options through your spouse’s employer-sponsored plan – even if you are eligible for Medicare. The price, extent of coverage, and how that coverage is coordinated with Medicare all could impact your family’s decision at that time. Premiums for family plans are higher than individual plans, but may cost less than other options, especially if there is a gap between your retirement date and Medicare eligibility. COBRA: It may be beneficial to extend your employersponsored insurance through the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act. COBRA allows retirees to receive health insurance coverage at group rates for A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0

up to 18 months, although it can be terminated earlier if you become Medicare eligible. With COBRA you will pay the full cost of the plan – remember, many employers underwrite a significant portion of the cost while you’re an employee – but the coverage will be identical.

Dependents: If your spouse and children are self-sufficient with significant savings, you may not need life insurance. But if you have a child with special needs or children still living at home, you might want the added security a life insurance policy can provide.

Individual coverage: Individual insurance, available through the government as part of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) or private insurance companies, can also serve to fill the gap between your retirement date and Medicare eligibility. The ACA guarantees coverage, even with a pre-existing condition, but the cost will vary based on the providers and plans available where you live.

THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOU When we are no longer working, it’s reasonable to expect some of our expenses will go down, such as business clothing, dry cleaning, commuting and lunch. On the other hand, some expenses might go up in retirement, such as entertainment activities and travel.

LIFE INSURANCE While we are working, life insurance helps protect our loved ones from a potential loss of income. The amount of life insurance each of us needs, therefore, is unique. It depends on how much we make and how much we spend and how much our dependents rely on our income. Once you are no longer working, do you still need life insurance?

• • • Knowing which of the employer-sponsored benefits you will need to continue – and where and how you will access them – can help you make a smooth transition from the working world to your ideal retirement. Taking the time now to do so could help preserve your retirement fund and offer you something more precious than money: security and comfort. NEXT STEPS

Ask your advisor these questions:

Well, that depends, too. Life insurance can be used as an estate-planning tool, to help distribute wealth among loved ones. But with regard to its ability to replace lost income, there are some situations that might compel you to carry a life insurance policy in retirement. Debt payment: While many of us reach retirement without a mortgage or other loans, not everyone does. If you are still paying for your home or education loans – or anything with a sizeable balance – you might consider having life insurance to help your spouse or children pay off that debt if something happens to you. As a way to avoid creating debt for loved ones, life insurance also can be used to pay for funeral and burial expenses. Spousal benefits: While your spouse would be entitled to survivor benefits from Social Security, the amount could be less than the benefit you received while alive. If at or over full retirement age, your widow/widower will be entitled to receive the greater of your benefit or their own, but not both, so he or she could see a decrease in total Social Security income. And not all pensions offer spousal benefits. Consider whether your beloved partner would be able to make ends meet on reduced income.

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• How will you access quality healthcare,

including insurance? • How will you fill a gap between retirement

and Medicare eligibility? • Do you still need life insurance? • Will your loved ones be provided for

without your employee benefits?

R aymond James financial advisors do not render advice on tax or legal matters. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. *In the case of a transfer, under federal tax rules, you’ll have to survive such transfer for three years for the ILIT to be effective. If death occurs within three years, the proceeds will be brought back to the estate and subject to estate taxes.

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Fish Tales with Mike Brower

Time to Start Thinking Spawn

It’s only February, but you need to start thinking about the coming spawn. As the weather gets to what is normally the coldest time of year around here, the bass start thinking about the coming spawn. Bass will start venturing into shallow water on those nice sunny days in order to pack on a little weight before finding that girlfriend or boyfriend. Females especially need a better diet choosing to feast on bream and crawfish for their iodine. Females need iodine to grow eggs and help with the stress levels before and during spawn, while males need to add weight because it takes calories to build a nest and to guard from other bass and predators of the fry. Besides, crawfish are slow and easy prey in cold weather and bream are easy pickings. When you are out on a late winter day, remember to spend a little time in that 2-5 foot range even though the water temp is in the upper 40’s or low 50’s. As the water warms, spend more time in that range targeting those cruising and early spawners.

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The new generation of emergency care. The new generation of emergency care.

DrugTake TakeBack BackInitiative Initiative Drug OperationMedicine MedicineCabinet Cabinet Operation

The Texarkana Arkansas Police Department is proud to partner with The Texarkana Arkansas Police Department is proud to partner with Texarkana Emergency Center in an effort to remove unused and out Texarkana Emergency Center in an effort to remove unused and out of date prescription medicines from your homes. of date prescription medicines from your homes.

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

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

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

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WHAT’S HAPPENING? Discovery Place wants to begin February celebrating guitar icon, Jimi Hendrix, by creating our very own Cereal Box Guitars on February 8th! Register in advance; will close Feb 8th. $5/general public and FREE/TMS members and children 3 and under.

Carol Miles, and the jazz trio, Three of a Kind will be performing at the Twisted Fork Grill & Lounge on Valentine’s Day evening, Friday, February 14th at 7:30pm. Dinner reservations are recommended.

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, who better to celebrate than Mrs. Maya Angelo at the Discovery Place! Kids will create Love Poems while learning different styles of poems. $5/general public and FREE/TMS members and children 3 and under.

“Cows that type? Hens on strike! Whoever heard of such a thing!” When Farmer Brown’s granddaughter Jenny comes for a visit, he declared the farm a tech-free zone. Will everything fall apart? Find out in this hilarious musical at the Perot Theatre on February 19th! Grade recommendation: K-4th Shows at 9:30am & 12:30pm

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS 2020 TOUR returns to Texarkana on February 20, 2020! Tickets are available now on the Four States Fair website, and you can also add on a Magic Pass Event for great pre-show, one on one time with the players on the court! Tickets start at $23.

The exotic Orient Express is about to go off the rails! With a locomotive full of suspects and an alibi for each one, it’s the perfect mystery for detective Hercule Poirot, n’estce pas? Join TexRep on:

The Gaither Vocal band is coming on their Good Things Take Time Spring 2020 Tour to First Baptist Church in Texarkana, TX on February 21st. Tickets start at $20.

Discovery Place invites kids to create Straw Airplanes in honor of Bessie Coleman on February 22nd. $5/general public and FREE/TMS members and children 3 and under. It’ll be a high-flying good time.

Come as we celebrate George Washington’s Birthday with a ball at the WPA Gym in Washington, AR, from 7-10pm on February 22nd! Lots of fun & fellowship; no previous dance experience required. Period dress or church attire is required. $12 a person / $20 per couple

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February 20th at 7:30 February 21st at 7:30 February 22nd at 2:00 and 7:30 February 23rd at 2:00

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Local Rescues

ARKLATEX COCKER SPANIEL RESCUE Facebook.com/ ArklatexCockerSpanielRescue ARTEX ANIMAL WELFARE, INC. (mostly horses) 903.824.1990 ATLANTA ANIMAL LEAGUE Facebook.com/ AtlantaAnimalLeague BOXER RESCUE OF TEXARKANA Facebook.com/ BoxerRescueOfTexarkana MUTTLEY CREW GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUE Facebook.com/ MuttleyCrewRescue POODLE PATCH RESCUE INC PoodlePatchRescue.com PASSION FOR POOCHES (mostly small dogs) Facebook.com/passionforpooches TEXARKANA ANIMAL LEAGUE Facebook.com/ TexarkanaAnimalLeague TEXARKANA HUMANE SOCIETY TexarkanaHumaneSociety.org Facebook.com/ TexarkanaHumaneSocietyInc TEXARKANA REPTILE & AMPHIBIAN RESCUE Facebook.com/TkReptileRescue TOBY’S TALES (mostly wildlife) Facebook.com/Tobysname

The Animal Care & Adoption Center of Texarkana, Arkansas is located at 203 Harrison, Texarkana, AR, 71854. For more information, call 870.773.6388, or visit: www. animalcareadoptioncenter.org or www.facebook.com/AnimalCare AdoptionTXK. Please note, all dogs adopted from this shelter MUST be spayed or neutered. Spays cost $89-$104, neuters are $76-$92 depending on the weight of the dog. We also have SPONSORED dogs and cats! This means someone has already paid for their vetting! Come see who’s waiting! We are always in need of caring, capable volunteers to assist in with duties at the center, adoption events, fund-raising activities and more. Open Monday-Friday 11AM 5PM; Saturday 11AM - 2PM.

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7207GUNSTOCK GUNSTOCK 7207

Exquisite custom built home in Pleasant Grove. ThisThis Exquisite custom built home in Pleasant Grove. two-story home features fourfour bedrooms, fourfour full full two-story home features bedrooms, baths, one half bath, open floor plan, large family baths one half bath, open floor plan, large family room with gasgas loglog fireplace, great for entertaining. room with fireplace, great for entertaining. Gourmet kitchen with gas gas cook top,top, double oven,oven, Gourmet kitchen with cook double island, pantry andand breakfast area. Entering through island, pantry breakfast area. Entering through thethe amazing entry adorned with a chandelier, office amazing entry adorned with a chandelier, office area, formal dining andand wine cellar withwith gorgeous area, formal dining wine cellar gorgeous iron doors. Master suite has a huge bath with soaking iron doors. Master suite has a huge bath with soaking tub and tile walk-in shower, two vanities and large tub and tile walk-in shower, two vanities and large walk-in closet. A fabulous staircase leads up to the walk-in closet. A fabulous staircase leads up to the second floor where you will find the media room second floor where you will find the media room or bonus room, two bedrooms, each bedroom has or bonus room, two bedrooms, each bedroom has its own "en suite" bathroom, and study area. Large its own "en suite" bathroom, and study area. Large privacy fenced backyard with covered patio and privacy fenced backyard covered patio and outdoor kitchen area forwith entertaining. outdoor kitchen area for entertaining.

Bill Spradlin Realtor Bill Spradlin 903-748-3186 Realtor 903-748-3186

Tracy Spradlin Broker Tracy Spradlin 903-748-2477 Broker 903-748-2477

Jan Williams Pam Hollingsworth Tara Whelchel Amber McCormack Crystal Nicholson Realtor Realtor Realtor Office Manager Property Manager Jan Williams Pam Hollingsworth 903-293-1429 Tara Whelchel 903-223-0710 Amber McCormack Crystal Nicholso 903-277-5771 903-277-1222 903-223-0712 Realtor Realtor Realtor Office Manager Property Manage 903-277-5771 903-277-1222 903-293-1429 903-223-0710 903-223-0712

1356 N. Kings Hwy. | Nash, TX 75569 | 903.223.0710 1356 N. Kings Hwy.||billsprad@aol.com Nash, TX 75569 | |903.223.0710 www.ImpactRealtyOnline.com spradlintd@aol.com0 6 7 A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 0 www.ImpactRealtyOnline.com | billsprad@aol.com | spradlintd@aol.com

FEBRUARY FEBRUARY SPECIALS! SPECIALS!

PRIVATE PRIVATELESSONS LESSONS LICENSE TO CARRY LICENSE TO CARRYCLASS CLASS RENTAL RENTALGUNS GUNSAVAILABLE AVAILABLE

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FIRST FIRSTRESPONDERS RESPONDERS & & MILITARY MILITARY (Active (Active&&Retired)* Retired)* *Must *Mustshow showpoof poofof ofservice service

$12 $12RANGE RANGEFEE FEEEVERY EVERYDAY DAY(SAVE (SAVE$5) $5) $20 $20TRANSFER TRANSFERFEES! FEES!(SAVE (SAVE$5) $5)

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LEEGGEENNDDAARRYY F irearms L INDOOR SHOOTING SHOOTING RANGE RANGE INDOOR

101SLATON SLATONDR., DR.,NASH, NASH,TX TX 101 BUSINESSPARK PARKOFF OFFHWY HWY82. 82. 0NASH 6 8 BUSINESS NASH

903.336.6139 903.336.6139

OPENTUES-SAT: TUES-SAT: 11:00-7:00 SUN MON: A LT M a g a z i n||eSUN | F e--bMON: r u a r CLOSED yCLOSED 2020 OPEN 11:00-7:00