ALT Magazine February 2023

From the Publisher..

The month of love.

February is always one of my favorite months for ALT Magazine. Not only do we highlight a love story, but I love to give our local businesses and people the news about winning or placing in our Readers Choice Awards. Love surrounds the entire issue.

John and Larkin Jarvis have been friends for years. It is such a pleasure this month to tell their love story. Larkin and I have joked for years about people telling us we look like sisters, so now we tell everyone that we are! Well, in our hearts, we are anyway.

As we grow older and our children leave to have lives of their own, so many couples grow apart. It is always great to find those couples that have gotten closer through the years. I know that Mike and I are closer than ever. As I write this, we are in Las Vegas at the Shot Show, the most extensive firearms expo! It is overwhelming! We are enjoying the expo, but we really love the food and the entertainment. No, we don’t gamble, but we love going to new places and trying new things. It has been a wonderful week!

I hope everyone can find that one person who makes their life worthwhile. Wishing you all the love this month and all year long…

Unconditional Love

By: Anne Granado

True love is instant and quick in the movies, cutting past the barriers between two people. However, the movie often ends before the challenges and trials of life begin. In the real world, some of the best romances are built on friendship, and these love stories often last the longest, much like the story of John and Larkin Jarvis. The two have been married for 42 years, and in that time, they have faced many challenges, had a lot of fun, and built a life of love together.

The couple’s story begins in Texarkana, where they grew up. John Jarvis was born and raised in Texarkana. He left to attend college at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, but decided that the desert climate of west Texas was not for him. “And let me tell you, after living in West Texas and experiencing sand storms and flat land, it was great to get back behind the pine curtain of East Texas. After a sand storm once weakened my car’s paint, I knew this wasn’t the place for me,” John says.

Growing up, John says he was blessed to be a part of a very loving family. His mother was a stay-at-home mom, and his father owned his own business. He also had two sisters, 11 years and 14 years older than him. “I always

teased my parents that I was an accident, but they never would agree,” John says. “Our family was like a combination of Father Knows Best and Bonanza TV shows. I threw in Bonanza because Dad had a few acres with a barn and cabin on the edge of town (now in the city) where we had horses, cows, gardens, and family gatherings. We called it the 'farm.'"

Spending weekends on the farm “toughened” John up. “I can’t tell you how many times I was thrown from a horse or dragged by a steer while trying to halter-break it. I spent my time climbing trees, falling from trees, building fences, repairing equipment, and more,” John says. “My family loved life and people. My parents were always involved in the church, and I was blessed to grow up in a loving church family where we laughed, cried, played, and worked together while worshiping God.”

John’s parents provided an excellent model of a loving, supportive relationship; they always treated each other with respect. “I’m sure they had arguments, but they never had them in front of us kids. I witnessed their struggles, too. During tough times of illnesses and tragedies, they were rocks and persevered,” John says. “They enjoyed doing things for each other. As

"ABOVE ALL, TRUST IN THE LORD AND PRACTICE WHAT THE BIBLE GUIDES YOU TO DO IN YOUR MARRIAGE.” -JOHN

a child, I knew they loved and supported each other. I think that is something a child should clearly see, so they will have an example to prepare themselves for a marital relationship.”

Across town, Larkin Pringle grew up in what we now call Pleasant Grove (PG). She attended PG school back when it was just a country school. “Back then, PG was Kindergarten through seventh grade, and we all went to school under the same roof,” Larkin says. “We were only separated by a breezeway where the buses ran through.”

Larkin also remembers sharing the same cafeteria, which made the best cinnamon yeast rolls. “Having just moved to Texarkana from Austin, Texas, this small country school shocked me. But I quickly learned to love the country living,” Larkin says.

She was the youngest of three children and grew up watching her older brother, Jon Marc Pringle, and older sister, Jan Pringle Baker. “I tried to learn from their mistakes, or rather learn how not to get caught! They were the best teachers!” Larkin says. “Since we lived pretty far out–and when I say ‘far out,’ I mean on Tamar Drive right off of Moores Lane–there were no other neighborhoods or businesses close to us, so we were free-range kids. The DeSantis girls across the street had a two-seater bicycle, and we would meet up with our other neighbors–the Willis girls–and ride bikes through the whole ‘Wamba Shuffle.’ It took us all day long. I can’t imagine doing that now!”

Larkin also learned a lot from watching her parents. They, too, were good role models for what a strong marriage should look like. “They never fought, or they never did in front of us. They showed affection toward each other, which is so good for kids to see and know that mom and dad love each other. They both worked fulltime, so when everyone was home, it was all hands on deck. Everyone pitched in to make the household flow. They expected that of each other, and they expected that of us kids,” Larkin

says. “Living in a household of five, we were able to see that if everyone works together, good things happen.”

Maintaining good relationships when three teenagers were in the house was not always easy, but being kind was something that Larkin’s parents highly valued. “We were not allowed to be mean and say unkind things to each other. That was a rule. Once hurtful things are said, you can’t unhear them. Even when we were sick, I can remember my mom saying, ‘Even though you don’t feel good, you still can still be nice!’” Larkin says. “Watching my parents, I learned that marriage is not 50/50 or 80/20 or 60/40. It is both giving 100% and doing that consistently.”

Larkin and John crossed paths at Pine Street Junior High but didn’t notice each other. “Now, if she spent much time in the principal’s office, she would’ve seen me!” John says. “But, we actually met for the first time at Texas High School.”

John asked Larkin on a date, but it was not love at first sight. “I was not impressed and, evidently, he was not either because he never asked me out again while we were in high school,” Larkin says.

Then, after coming back from college, John underwent shoulder surgery from an old sports injury, and Larkin worked at the clinic. “Larkin’s beauty and the way she carried herself really attracted me,” John says. “Me being younger and dumber a few years before kept me from noticing. I’m sure it was God’s timing. After spending more time with Larkin I discovered that her beauty was beyond skin deep and to her core.”

John and Larkin immediately noticed their compatibility the second time around and fell hard for each other. “Johnny made me feel like I was the only person in the room. He never scanned the room looking for someone more interesting when we were talking, and he never acted like he wanted to be anywhere else,”

Larkin says. “He made me laugh. There were days that my stomach muscles would hurt the next day after having been on a date the night before. He was and is a genuinely happy person.”

Once they started dating, the couple would go water skiing at the lake almost every evening right after work. The lake was smooth, and they would ski that soft, calm water and then watch the sun go down. Then, they would get fried chicken at a little chicken shack by the lake. “On the boat one late afternoon, Johnny started talking about the future, all he was hoping for, and how he thought I fit into that plan. At this point, my mind was reeling. I could see where

he was going, and then it happened. He asked the question, ‘Will you marry me?’” Larkin says. “My first thought was, ‘We aren’t even dating each other exclusively yet!’ I didn’t feel it was the right time to make such a huge leap, so I said, ‘Well, how about we just go steady first?’ He was so sweet and took that as a

Though he was deterred at first, John was determined to marry Larkin. “Like being thrown off a horse, I dusted myself off and got back on because I knew this was the ride I wanted forever,” John says.

John randomly popped the question for months after the initial proposal, and Larkin would always put him off. One day, Larkin decided that she would say “yes” the next time he asked. However, once she made that decision, it was months before he asked again. “I was afraid I had missed the boat and that he was done asking. The day finally came, and he nonchalantly asked again. I’m sure he thought I would again say ‘Not yet,’” Larkin says. “When I actually said ‘Yes,’ he ran around like a puppy with the zoomies. Neither of us wanted a big wedding, so we agreed to get married the next weekend.”

John says that they rushed to the altar so that Larkin would not back out, and the two were married on Friday, July 3, 1981, in a small chapel at the Methodist Church in downtown Texarkana. “My most vivid memory of that day is how special my sweet mama made our wedding reception. Bless her heart, I didn’t give her any time to put it together, and I left it all up to her,” Larkin says. It was absolutely perfect, though.”

For the couple, the first few years of their marriage presented a great learning experience. “I had to learn how to be less selfish since we were together more than ever and lived in the same home,” John says. “It was not hard to do when you truly love each other. Larkin is an amazing person. To this day, being married to Larkin makes me want to be successful in anything I do.”

Like many newly married couples, Larkin said her biggest lesson was learning to accept his family as hers. “They were very easy to love, but that was an adjustment for me,” Larkin says. “But, Johnny and I are very compatible, so actually, there have not been any huge compromises needed. We are pretty much on the same page on most everything. If we do have differing opinions on something, we talk it out, and we come to an agreement that we are both happy with.”

John and Larkin stayed active in those early years, especially since John’s family farm was still a part of their lives. “We had horses we cared for and rode, and a lot of time was spent at the lakehouse,” John says. “Boating and watersports were also great fun, and we slowly became more active in our church.”

The couple had been married 13 years before they had children. Their daughter, Natalie, was born in 1994, and their son, Grant, was born in 1998. “We were so ready for these kids! We had done all of the fun crazy stuff we wanted to do so when Natalie was born we were ready to be parents and leave all that other stuff behind,” Larkin says. “I loved watching John with our children. I saw what a solid rock-steady person Johnny was. He was so committed to raising happy, healthy, and well-adjusted kids. Nothing took precedence over our kids. He used to love to play golf on the weekends, but when little Natalie would routinely cry when he left to play golf for the afternoon, he decided he didn’t like golf that much after all.”

Larkin says that John quit going to the golf course and that they would all do things together. “Then,

when Grant came along, it was wonderful to watch Johnny with Grant and see him mold Grant and shape him into the upstanding young man he is today,” Larkin says.

John says he was shocked that babies did not come with an instructional manual, but he was lucky that Larkin was a natural. “Larkin seemed to fall right into being an outstanding mother while I had to really think about things. Larkin guided me a lot and helped me. Once I bonded with the babies between 12 and 18 months old, It became easy to love and care for them,” John says. “We had a great and fun life before the kids but a more wonderful and blessed life after children.”

The couple’s Christian faith played a significant role in raising their kids. “We made sure they were involved in church activities, and their hearts are where we prayed they would be now that they are adults,” John says.

Now, Natalie lives in Hope and works in Texarkana at O’Reilly Auto. Grant is an iOS developer for Anima Virtuality, Inc., and can work remotely from his home in Texarkana. “We are so glad that they have chosen to stay close by,” Larkin says.

While their children were young, John and Larkin spent most of their time going to various activities, but now that their kids are grown, the couple is left to their own devices. “We love to go on short weekend getaways to experience different restaurants and sporting events. We try to get to a few Texas Rangers games each year, and we watch a lot of sports on TV together,” Larkin says. “We also love to work on our home. We like adding different features, which is probably where we will focus our efforts as a couple. We will continue to travel; planning the next trip is almost as fun as going. We can’t wait!”

Before children, John and Larkin frequented Acapulco, Mexico. “We enjoy the beach, but now we are enjoying other beaches. Our 40th anniversary was spent in Hawaii, where I rented a motorcycle and kept Larkin half-scared while we enjoyed the amazing views of the island,” John says.

In 2022, John and Larkin celebrated 41 years of marriage, and John can not imagine life without Larkin. “She is truly my better half. I really don’t know why God blessed me with her, but I’m forever thankful,” John says. “All of my close friends remind me I married up, and I agree. Larkin is smart and a team player, and sometimes, she laughs at my jokes. I’ve watched her be a good friend to many people, and she continues to be my best friend.”

When John thinks about his wife, a quote from Franz Schubert comes to mind. “He said, ‘Happy is a man who finds a true friend, and far happier is he who finds that true friend in his wife.’ Larkin has been with me and supported me during several business ventures, along with being an elected official. There have been ups and downs through all of it,” John says. “Her understanding, voice of reason, encouragement, and support made the rollercoaster ride safer. No one got too sick or fell out. There are many more wonderful things about Larkin I could share. It’s great to be married to a woman that loves our children and me unconditionally.”

For Larkin, her friendship with Johnny is what makes their marriage work. She says they actually like each other and want to be with each other. “I would rather be with him than anyone else. He is just easy to be around. But the best part is that he still makes me laugh!” Larkin says. “Johnny is so patient—way more so than I am. I have learned to be more patient just from seeing him practice it. He is also very, very kind and has a soft heart.

He is much more of a softie than I am. He is even nice to telemarketers on the phone! After a conversation with a telemarketer that ran way too long, in my opinion, he will say to me, ‘They are just trying to do their job; it didn’t cost me anything to be nice to them.’ He is clearly a better human than me!”

In addition to loving each other, keeping their marriage alive, and raising children together, Larkin and John also work together for Supreme Lending, providing loans for primary residences, second homes, and investment property. John is licensed to do business anywhere in Texas, Arkansas, Louisana, Oklahoma, and Colorado and manages the Texarkana office. Larkin specializes in setting up all loans for processing. “I stated earlier that Larkin is smart and a team player. If you want to build a business, that is the kind of person you want to work with. Her added value is being great with people,” John says. “We really work together. I’m not her boss, and she isn’t mine. There is an abundance of guidelines, rules, and processing involved in the mortgage business. It takes dedication and professionalism to succeed in this business. We each have a different part in the process. It can sometimes become stressful, but understanding, respect, and support get us past those times. We tend to harass each other playfully from time to time too. Laughter is a great stress reliever. The bottom line is that this business is successful because we make a good team.”

Though it may seem they have it all figured out, John and Larkin agree that they are still learning. Some of their greatest advice is to be nice to each other, even if you do not want to be. “If you are afraid you will say something you might regret or know will be hurtful, go to a different room for a bit. Hurtful things said in anger can’t be unheard,” John says. “One big thing all couples should do is to spend time together with someone who is a trained pastor on marriage before you are married; it will be well worth the time.”

Both John and Larkin had excellent role models for what a marriage should look like in both sets of parents, but the two faced challenges. “No one is perfect, so no marriage can be perfect,” Larkin says. “If you accept that going in and know there will be a few bumps in the road, you will be ahead of the game.”

Looking to the next decades of their marriage, John and Larkin plan to continue growing their friendship and having fun. “Our advice to keep your marriage great is to make your life together interesting and fun—dodge boredom. Work to stay young at heart and healthy,” John says. “Be active and exercise. Above all, trust in the Lord and practice what the Bible guides you to do in your marriage.”

READER'S 2023 WINNERS CHOICE

GOODS & SERVICES

Auto Service & Tires

WINNER:

Discount Wheel & Tire Pros

RUNNER UP:

Discount Tire Store

NOMINEES:

Copper Tire & Service

Daniel’s Tires

Welch Tire Co.

Auto Stereo & Accessories

WINNER: ST Mobile Service

RUNNER UP:

Audio Center

NOMINEES: Electronic Service

Bank

WINNER:

Farmer's Bank & Trust

RUNNER UP:

Commercial National Bank

NOMINEES:

Bodcaw Bank

Cadence Bank

Guaranty Bank & Trust

Chic Clothing

WINNER:

Sweet Caroline’s Boutique

RUNNER UP:

Label's Boutique

NOMINEES:

Gayle’s Boutique

Luna Boutique

The Rancher’s Wife

Computer Repair / Service Company

WINNER:

Complete Computing Solutions

RUNNER UP:

Texarkana Computer

NOMINEES: WalkerITC

Credit Union

WINNER:

Red River Credit Union

RUNNER UP:

Texar Federal Credit Union

NOMINEES:

Domino Federal Credit Union

Mil-Way Federal Credit Union

Swemp Federal Credit Union

Texarkana Terminal Federal Credit Union

Dance Studio

WINNER:

All Rhythm Dance Alley

RUNNER UP:

Judith McCarty School of Dance

NOMINEES:

Joni’s Gymnastics & Dance Center

Lana LaVoice Grounds School of Dance

Red Door Dance Academy

Electronics Repair Service

WINNER:

Phone Pros

RUNNER UP:

Texarkana Computer

NOMINEES:

Clear Sound Audio Video

Complete Computing Solutions

Lafferty's TV & Appliance Service Center

Equipment Rentals

WINNER:

Dot's Rentals & Sales

RUNNER UP:

River Valley Tractor

NOMINEES:

HOLT CAT Texarkana

Ledwell Machinery

Riggs CAT Equipment Sales & Rentals

Florist

WINNER:

Persnickety Too

RUNNER UP:

Ruth’s Flowers

NOMINEES:

The Flowerroom Florist & Gifts, Sherry Young

The Village Floral and Gifts

Unique Flowers & Gifts

Garden Store / Landscaping

WINNER:

Little Country Greenhouse

RUNNER UP:

Twitty Nursery

NOMINEES:

Freeman Landscape

H & N Landscaping

Larry’s Southern Garden

Gift Store

WINNER:

The Village Floral and Gifts

RUNNER UP:

Fan Fare Gifts

NOMINEES:

Dreidal Home & Sundry

Ginger Junction

The Rancher’s Wife

Gymnastics

WINNER:

Joni's Gymnastic, Dance, and Cheer

RUNNER UP:

Twin City Cheer and Gymnastic

NOMINEES:

NE Texas Elite Gymnastics

Flip N Cheer and Ashdown Gymnastic

Heating and Cooling Services

WINNER:

Big Mike’s Heating & AC

RUNNER UP:

30 Point Service

NOMINEES:

Cook Heating & Air

Hamilton’s Heat and Air

Lone Star Heating & Air

Home Builder

WINNER:

Rogers Equipment & Construction

RUNNER UP: Gary Strickland

NOMINEES:

Greg McKay Construction

Tony’s Custom Creations

Home Improvement

WINNER:

Tony Langford Roofing

RUNNER UP: Red River Lumber

NOMINEES:

Dot’s Ace Hardware

Rogers Equipment & Construction

Tony’s Custom Creations

Investment Advisor

WINNER:

Greg Flanagan,

Flanagan | Andrus

RUNNER UP:

Dustin Stringer, Dustin Stringer

Wealth Management

NOMINEES:

Joe Black, Black Financial Group

Lauren Coffman-Thomas

Stroud Financial

Jeweler

WINNER:

Micah’s Jewelers

RUNNER UP:

Crocker’s Jewelers

NOMINEES:

Alexander’s Jewelers

Cooper Fine Jewelers

Gray’s Jewelers

Liquor Store

WINNER:

Chubby Cheeks Liquor

RUNNER UP: The Party Factory

Over 20 years experience in Metal, Composition, and Flat Commercal Roofs. We offer discounts to senior citizens and churches. 5 year workmanship warranty. tony.langford.roofing1@gmail.com

NOMINEES:

Bogey’s Wine Liquor Beer

DeLaughter’s Hwy 67 Liquor

The Villa at Texarkana

Locally Made Products

WINNER:

Rowe Casa Organics

RUNNER UP:

Lavender Thorne

NOMINEES:

Boonedox Woodworks

East Texas Grain and Knot

Fizz Bizz

Manufacturer

WINNER:

Domtar Paper Co.

RUNNER UP:

Cooper Tire Service

NOMINEES:

Ledwell & Son

Mayo Manufacturing Corporation

Natural State Label

Precision Metal Industries

New Local Business

WINNER: Lost Pizza Co.

RUNNER UP:

Ally Cats Coffee Bar

NOMINEES:

Liberty Nutrition

Main Street Pizza

PG Styles

Salt & Light Hair Co

Pawn Shop

WINNER: Tri State Pawn & Jewelry

RUNNER UP:

Cash American Pawn

NOMINEES:

Paul’s Pawn & Gun

Pawn Express

Pet Groomer

WINNER:

Paw Paw Patch

RUNNER UP:

Wisdom Animal Clinic

NOMINEES:

Connie Coker, Westridge Animal Hospital

Dog Patch Pet Shop

Georgia's Pet Salon & Boutique

Shoes / Boots

WINNER:

Racquet & Jog

RUNNER UP:

Cavender's Boot City

NOMINEES:

Boot Barn

Shoe Carnival

The Rancher’s Wife

Small Engine Service and Repair

WINNER:

Small Engine Specialist of Texarkana

RUNNER UP:

Premier Outdoor Equipment

Social Media Presence by Company / Organization

WINNER:

Texarkana Texas Police Department

RUNNER UP:

Impact Realty Group

NOMINEES:

Rowe Casa Organics

Texarkana Gameday

TXK Today

Veterinarian Care / Pet Clinic

WINNER:

Westridge Animal Hospital

RUNNER UP:

Wisdom Animal Clinic

NOMINEES:

Oubre Animal Clinic

Pleasant Grove Animal Hospital

Rankin Veterinary Clinic

Stateline Vet Clinic

BEAUTY

Body Hair Removal

WINNER:

Eternal Beauty Medical Spa

RUNNER UP:

Time in a Bottle Day Spa

NOMINEES:

Annie Rateliff Skincare

Sarah Renee, Beauty & Wellness Center

Kayla Lewis, Kayla Lewis Beauty

Body Wraps

WINNER:

Eternal Beauty Medical Aesthetic

RUNNER UP: A Touch for Health

NOMINEES:

Barefoot Day Spa

Sheena Richardson, Spa Girls

Botox/Fillers

WINNER:

Lonestar Health & Wellness

RUNNER UP:

Eternal Beauty Medical Aesthetic

NOMINEES:

Beauty and Wellness Center

Elizabeth Williams, About Face

ReNew Integrated Medical Spa

Facials

WINNER:

Beauty and Wellness Center

RUNNER UP:

Eternal Beauty Medical Aesthetic

NOMINEES:

Annie Rateliff Skincare

Lonestar Health & Wellness

Time in a Bottle Day Spa

Hair Stylist

WINNER:

Lisa Harris, Style Studio

RUNNER UP:

Reala Jo Ward, Fringe Salon

NOMINEES:

Elizabeth McClure, Fringe Salon

Hope Gamble

Morgan Hinman

Microdermabrasion

WINNER:

Eternal Beauty Medical Aesthetic

RUNNER UP:

Beauty and Wellness Center

NOMINEES:

Annie Rateliff Skincare

Kayla Lewis Beauty

Lonestar Health & Wellness

Spa WINNER:

Beauty and Wellness Center

RUNNER UP:

Eternal Beauty Medical Aesthetic

NOMINEES:

Lonestar Health & Wellness

ReNew Integrated Medical Spa

Time in a Bottle

HEALTH

Emergency Room

WINNER:

Texarkana Emergency Center & Hospital

RUNNER UP:

CHRISTUS Health, St. Michael Hospital

NOMINEES:

Signature Care Emergency Center

Wadley Regional Medical Center

Fitness

WINNER:

Legends Gym & Health Club

RUNNER UP:

Anytime Fitness, Wake Village

NOMINEES:

Gymbox Fitness, Texarkana

The Sportsplex by HealthCARE Express

Wacha Resolution Sports Training

Home Health/Care

WINNER:

Enhabit Health

RUNNER UP:

CHRISTUS HomeCare

NOMINEES:

Dierkson Hospice

Heritage Home Health & Hospice

Sitters

Retirement / Assisted Living

WINNER:

Cornerstone Retirement Community

RUNNER UP:

Cowhorn Creek Estates, Holiday by ATRIA

NOMINEES:

Bella Vista Independent Senior Living

The Oaks Independent Apartments

The Retreat at Kenwood

Urgent Care

WINNER:

HealthCARE Express Urgent Care

RUNNER UP:

CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic, Richmond Road

NOMINEES:

Collom & Carney Clinic

Exceed Urgent Care

HealthCARE Express Urgent Care

COMMUNITY

Company To Work For

WINNER:

CHRISTUS Health, St. Michael Hospital

RUNNER UP: Cooper Tire

NOMINEES:

Pleasant Grove Independent School District

Red River Credit Union

Texarkana Independent School District

Elected Official

WINNER: Todd Fore

RUNNER UP: Bob Bruggeman

NOMINEES:

Cathy Hardin Harrison

Jeff Neal

Larry Roe

Terry Roberts

WEDDINGS

Wedding Attire

WINNER:

Gracyn Elizabeth Bride

RUNNER UP:

Dillard’s

NOMINEES:

Squires Formalwear

Wedding Cake

WINNER:

Julie’s Deli & Market

RUNNER UP:

Graham Slam Bakery

NOMINEES:

All in Good Taste Bakery

Cake Boutique

Heavenly Sweets

Wedding Caterer

WINNER:

Julie’s Deli & Market

RUNNER UP:

Jeff Loving, Chef on the Run

NOMINEES:

Dana Szymanski, DonebyDana903

Silver Spoon

Wedding DJ

WINNER:

Fabienne Trash

RUNNER UP:

Chuck Gilbert

NOMINEES:

Jessi Dan

Omega Entertainment

TNA Karaoke

Wedding Florist

WINNER:

Ruth’s Flowers

RUNNER UP:

Persnickety Too

NOMINEES:

J Cole Design

The Flowerroom Florist & Gifts

The Village Floral and Gifts

Wedding Indoor Venue

WINNER:

Four Fifteen Estates

RUNNER UP:

The Historic Silvermoon on Broad

NOMINEES:

Crossties Event Venue

Regional Arts Center

Ramage Farms

The Collins Home

Wedding Outdoor Venue

WINNER:

Garrison Gardens

RUNNER UP:

Four Fifteen Estates

NOMINEES:

Dee’s Barn and Venue

Ramage Farms

Tree Haven

Wedding Reception Venue

WINNER:

The Historic Silvermoon on Broad

RUNNER UP:

Four Fifteen Estates

NOMINEES:

Elk Meadows Game Ranch & Pavilion

Garrison Gardens

Ramage Farms

The Collins Home

Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Venue

WINNER:

Silver Star Smokehouse

RUNNER UP:

Verona Italian Restaurant

NOMINEES:

Crossties Event Center

Twisted Fork

Zapata’s Mexican Grill

WINE & DINE

BBQ

WINNER:

Naaman's Premium BBQ & Prime Steaks

RUNNER UP:

Big Jake’s Bar-B-Que

NOMINEES:

Big Gilley’s Smokehouse

Forand Family BBQ

Randy’s Smokehouse & BBQ

Silver Star Smokehouse

Desserts

WINNER:

Graham Slam Bakery

RUNNER UP:

Julie’s Deli & Market

NOMINEES:

Dixie Diner

Susie Q’s Casseroles & Confections

The Cookie Lady

Fries

WINNER:

Wingstop

RUNNER UP:

TLC Burger & Fries

NOMINEES:

Big Jake’s Bar-B-Que

Reggie's Burgers, Dogs & Fries

The Dugout

Hamburger

WINNER:

TLC Burger & Fries

RUNNER UP:

Reggie’s Burgers, Dogs & Fries

NOMINEES:

Old Tyme Burger Shoppe

The Burger Joint

The Dugout Pizza

WINNER:

Gusano's Chicago Style Pizzeria

RUNNER UP:

Lost Pizza Co.

NOMINEES:

Joe’s Pizza and Pasta

Pizza on Main

Redbone Magic Brewing

Steak

WINNER:

Pop's Place

RUNNER UP:

Naaman's Premium BBQ & Prime Steaks

NOMINEES:

Benchmark American Brasserie

Silver Star Smokehouse

Verona Italian Restaurant

Wine List

WINNER:

Verona Italian Restaurant

RUNNER UP:

Twisted Fork

NOMINEES:

Benchmark American Brasserie

Naaman's Premium BBQ & Prime Steaks

Wings WINNER:

Wingstop

RUNNER UP:

Hopkin’s Icehouse

NOMINEES:

Gusano’s Chicago Style Pizzeria

Brunch

WINNER:

Verona Italian Restaurant

RUNNER UP:

Julie’s Deli & Market

NOMINEES:

Benchmark American Brasserie

Hopkins Icehouse

Northridge Country Club

Redbone Magic Brewing

Date Night Restaurant

WINNER:

Verona Italian Restaurant

RUNNER UP:

Benchmark American Brasserie

NOMINEES:

Ironwood Grill

Twisted Fork

Zapata’s Mexican Grill

Gourmet Dinner

WINNER:

Benchmark American Brasserie

RUNNER UP:

Verona Italian Restaurant

NOMINEES:

Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery

Pop’s Place

Twisted Fork

Happy Hour

WINNER:

Hopkin’s Icehouse

RUNNER UP:

Zapata’s Mexican Grill

NOMINEES:

El Chico Cafe

Gusano’s Chicago Style Pizzeria

Silver Star Smokehouse

Locally Owned Restaurant

WINNER:

Benchmark American Brasserie

RUNNER UP:

Ironwood Grill

NOMINEES:

Julie’s Deli & Market

Loca Luna Mexican Grill

Pop’s Place

Lunch Spot

WINNER:

Ironwood Grill

RUNNER UP:

Julie’s Deli & Market

NOMINEES:

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop

Loca Luna Mexican Grill

The Dugout

Outdoor Dining

WINNER:

Pop’s Place

RUNNER UP:

Naaman's Premium BBQ & Prime Steaks

NOMINEES:

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop

Hopkin’s Icehouse

Redbone Magic Brewing

Trivia Bar Night

WINNER:

Redbone Magic Brewing

RUNNER UP:

Pop’s Place

NOMINEES:

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop

Hopkin’s Icehouse

The Arrow Bar

Twisted Fork

Caterer

WINNER:

Julie’s Deli & Market

RUNNER UP:

Jeff Loving, Chef on the Run

NOMINEES:

Mary Colorigh, Garrison Gardens Catering

Naaman's Premium BBQ & Prime Steaks

Silver Star Smokehouse

Susie Q’s Casseroles & Confections

Chef WINNER:

Becky Williams, Benchmark American Brasserie

RUNNER UP:

Jennifer Tanner, Julie’s Deli & Market

NOMINEES:

Jeff Greening

Jeff Loving, Chef on the Run

Hector Jimenez, Verona Italian Restaurant

PEOPLE

Artist

WINNER:

Darlene Taylor

RUNNER UP:

Mary Jane Orr

NOMINEES:

Joel Wright

Joseph Raymond

TJ McAlexander

Cosmetic Surgeon

WINNER:

David Whitten, Beauty and Wellness Center

RUNNER UP:

Rachael Keilin, Precision Surgery Center

NOMINEES:

Charles Hollingsworth

Decorator / Designer

WINNER:

Lauren Callaway

RUNNER UP:

Jeff Brown

NOMINEES:

Ashlyn Yates

Janet Green

Jennifer Cole

Dentist

WINNER:

Chris Ferguson

RUNNER UP:

Lippian Family Dentistry

NOMINEES:

Andrew Curry

Brittany Bunch

Chad Patterson

Jay Castle

Joshua Talley

Mark Addington

Mark Mashburn

Mitchell Glass

Robert Arnold

Sarah Payne

Todd Thigpen

Electrician

WINNER:

Jay Strickland, Live Wire

RUNNER UP:

Integrity Electrical

NOMINEES:

Liberty Electrician

Robbie Rogers

Wayne Roberts

Insurance Agent

WINNER:

Kelli Ashbrook, State Farm

RUNNER UP:

Brian Purtle, Allstate Agency

NOMINEES:

Greg Cockrell, State Farm

Greg Murphy, Farm Bureau Insurance of Arkansas

Make-Up Artist

WINNER:

Elizabeth McClure

RUNNER UP:

Makayla Burns

NOMINEES:

Kayla Lewis

Kimberly Bearden

Lauren Starkey

Massage Therapist WINNER:

Time in a Bottle Day Spa

RUNNER UP:

Sheena Richardson, The Spa Girls

NOMINEES:

Jared Tucker

Reeves Ingram, Beauty & Wellness Center

Tiffany, Tranquility Day Spa

OB-GYN

WINNER:

Jennifer Thompson, Collom & Carney Clinic

RUNNER UP:

D'Andra Bingham, Collom & Carney Clinic

NOMINEES:

Kenneth West, The Woman's Specialist

Surdeer Jayaprabu, The Woman's Specialist

Thomas Wilson, East Texas Border Health Clinic

Optometrist

WINNER:

Mark Allen, ArkLaTex Eyes

RUNNER UP:

Eric McCall, The Eye Guys

NOMINEES:

Adam Cox, Family Eye Clinic of Atlanta

Jeff Phillips, The Eye Guys

Randall Glass, Fowler Eye Care

Pediatrician

WINNER:

Cindy Porter, Collom & Carney Clinic

RUNNER UP:

Rachel King, King Medical Clinic

NOMINEES:

Cheryl Saul-Sehy, Collom & Carney Clinic

Christina Payne, Collom & Carney Clinic

Clark Green, Collom & Carney Clinic

Debra Wright-Bowers, Collom & Carney Clinic

Krista Neiamhier, Genesis PrimeCare

Mark Wright, Collom & Carney Clinic

Tracie Calloway, Healing Hands Pediatrics

Zach King, Collom & Carney Clinic

Realtor

WINNER:

Tracy Spradlin

RUNNER UP:

Monica Kelley

NOMINEES:

Ashley Goodman

Kyle Barrett

Sarah Sealy Griffin

Sharon Good

Real Estate - Commercial WINNER:

Impact Realty Group

RUNNER UP:

NAI American Realty

NOMINEES:

Goodman Realty

Raffaelli Realty

Richard Reynolds Realty

Real Estate - Property Management

WINNER:

Impact Property Management

RUNNER UP:

Coldwell Banker

NOMINEES:

Raffaelli Realty

Schimming Company Real Estate Services

Surgeon

WINNER:

Beth Peterson

RUNNER UP:

Jeffery DeCaprio

NOMINEES:

Marcus Smith

Mark Sutherland

Randall Schmidt

Tattoo Artist

WINNER:

Joaquin Hernandez

RUNNER UP:

Jason Standridge

NOMINEES:

Jessica Dillard

Kit Rabozzi

Russell Beydler “Redneck Russ”

Thomas Wester

CONFIDENTLY NAVIGATING CHANGES NEAR RETIREMENT

RETIREMENT & LONGEVITY

Finding a new way forward requires emotional fortitude as well as financial support.

No matter how organized you are, things don’t always go as planned when preparing for retirement. The truth is most people have to retire earlier than they had envisioned due to an unexpected health event. While the physical cost of a new or worsening health issue in or near retirement is hard to ignore, the emotional cost – sometimes equally impactful – may fly under your radar. It’s natural to feel a sense of apprehension and not have all the answers right away.

The good news is finding a clear path forward for you and your loved ones is closer than you think. And you know someone who likely has guided others in similar situations: your advisor.

Time to pivot?

New or existing health impairments and disabilities are almost always accompanied by a variety of physical, emotional and financial costs – which too change over time. When preparing to adjust your plans, it’s vital to acknowledge these three costs to remain confident in your vision for retirement.

For example, changes to your physical health may mean that your close family members have to become caregivers and that your home environment has to adapt to accommodate mobility aids. More frequent

healthcare visits coupled with a more limited ability to do the activities you once enjoyed can take a toll on your mental well-being and sense of purpose. It’s not uncommon for physical and mobility changes to bring emotional challenges for everyone affected.

In addition to physical and emotional challenges come a range of (sometimes unforeseen) financial costs. Medical services, mobility aids, prescription drugs and health insurance are all expenses that should be estimated for when rethinking retirement plans with your health requirements in mind.

While recalculating the financial costs of your retirement you should also note that, depending on the type of health condition and when you file for retirement benefits, you may qualify for disability benefits – otherwise known as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Your advisor can help you parse the details. You have the power to adjust yo ur attitude, build resilience and actively strengthen your relationships to find the support you’re almost certainly going to need. To achieve this, consider:

• Focusing on the positives (and accepting the negatives). Take the time to make a list of the things that are most meaningful to your life and what brings you the greatest amount of purpose, enjoyment and satisfaction. This makes it far easier for

you to recognize what’s most meaningful to you.

• Being flexible and remaining resolute. To strengthen your resilience, try putting your energy into practicing self-reflection, being mindful of what you still control in your everyday life, setting realistic goals and focusing on problem-solving rather than worrying about the problem itself.

• Cultivating your social circles. Having social wealth in retirement comes with a number of benefits – reduced loneliness and an opportunity to continue sharpening your mind, to name just a few. Take the chance to rekindle old friendships and continue nurturing the relationships that matter most.

Switching benefits

One fact to note is that you cannot collect both retirement benefits and SSDI from the Social Security Administration. If you filed, or plan to file, for early retirement benefits and then make the switch to SSDI and your disability application is approved, you should receive a higher benefit and a retroactive payment. However, it may not necessarily be your full retirement benefit.

There are multiple factors that affect the calculation when switching from retirement to disability benefits. Retirement benefits are based on your 35 highest-earning years, but, if you’re disabled and have spent less time in work, your SSDI benefits are determined by your inflation-adjusted earnings from age 21 until the year your disability started.

If you filed for retirement benefits early, you may be able to switch to SSDI or receive a backdated payment, provided:

• You became disabled before you reached full retirement age (66 or 67 years old)

• You can prove your disability or health condition began before you took early retirement, i.e., evidence of a medical diagnosis from a doctor

• You learned that an existing condition qualified you for a higher disability benefit after filing for Social Security benefits

The advantage of determining your eligibility for SSDI is that you may qualify to receive a higher amount to help you pay for health- or disability-related costs once you’re no longer working. For support in making the best decision, speak to your advisor.

Retirement isn’t a one-off event. It’s an ever-evolving process with many layers and lots of moving parts. Grant yourself time to figure things out and remember that you can always adjust your direction again if needed.

Next steps

• Get in touch with your advisor to discuss the financial options available as you begin retired life.

• Lay the groundwork on your plan of action by revisiting your goals to best decide what changes to make to your retirement plan.

• Avoid making hasty decisions and, if you’re eligible, consider the implications of switching from retirement benefits to disability benefits on your savings and long-term retirement plans.

Sources: investopedia.com; irs.gov; aarp.com; helpguide.org/ articles; wealthlegacyinstitute.com; AARP © 2022 Raymond James Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange / SIPC, and Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA / SIPC, are subsidiaries of Raymond James Financial, Inc.

Raymond James® and Raymond James Financial® are registered trademarks of Raymond James Financial, Inc.

Suzie TK SnippeTS

By: Suzie Tyler

Cupid and Valentine’s Day

Who does not want to be showered with romance at least one day a year on Valentine’s Day?

My husband was a romantic. He carefully and thoughtfully selected each of the hundreds of cards he sent me when we dated that carried over into our marriage.

When did the celebration of Valentine’s Day begin, and why is it a holiday? Pope Gelasius declared February 14th St. Valentine’s Day at the end of the fifth century, and King Henry VIII of England declared it a holiday in 1537.

Red roses are associated with the Greek goddess Aphrodite, considered a sign of love and romance and the most often sent. It is estimated that 250 million roses will be used to express love on this special day, and in 2021 consumers in the U.S. spent an estimated two billion dollars on flowers and paid $165.00 per person on gifts for that special love.

Valentine cards were first used in the mid-1800s, and Hallmark estimates that 145 million cards will be exchanged this year, plus the ones in the classroom.

So how did Cupid get in this picture with his bow and arrow?

He is the Roman counterpart to the Greek goddess, Eros, the God of love, and his arrows have tips made of gold and lead. Legend says that if Cupid strikes someone with a gold arrow, they will be filled with a desire and love for their lover, but if he strikes them with a lead arrow, they fall out of love.

You think of February as love, and one would assume this month has the most marriage proposals. Wrong!

According to data, December is the most popular month to get engaged, while most weddings occur in October (22%), followed by June and August, 13% each.

All in all, it seems like all the hoopla about expressing love via flowers, cards, or chocolates, is making several companies a lot of money. I would just as soon have a new pair of shoes, but that’s not very romantic! Just practical

You don’t have to break the bank to send love. Be creative! Show love in a personal way, not just because you are expected. An original hand-crafted card would be very special. So that you know, the letters "xoxo" mean hugs and kisses and are free in a text message!

However you choose to show love, do it creatively, committedly, and with great devotion.

While you are observing love on this day, don’t forget our first love, Jesus, who gave his life unconditionally so we could live eternally.

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Fish Tales with Mike Brower

So, Debbie and I went to the Shot Show in Las Vegas last month. The Shot Show is a manufacturer’s gun show — a place for them to showcase their guns. You have to be in the firearms business to attend.

The first thing I want to make clear is that it takes up 630,000 square feet in three expo halls at Caesar’s Palace and the Venetian and has an attendance of around 60,000 people over five days with several “display halls” for the vendors. On three floors of the Venetian, it is like a herd of turtles moving around. On one side of a hallway, people are going in, and on the other, people are going out. I quickly discovered it was like playing a real-life game of Frogger moving across the walkways.

We got lost twice in one venue area, just looking for a way out. The funny thing was that the display vendors did not know how to exit. One guy said that he would just follow everyone else at the end of the day.

We made it out …… finally. Tomorrow another expo hall; I should have brought my GPS.

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Two-time GRAMMY nominee and Avery Fisher career grant recipient Jennifer Frautschi has garnered worldwide acclaim as a deeply expressive and musically adventurous violinist with impeccable technique and a wide-ranging repertoire. Join this wonderful event at the Perot Theater at 7pm. Concert preview begins at 6:10pm and tickets can be purchased online or by calling the box office at 903.792.4992.

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The Magic of Bill Blagg LIVE! is a national touring full production show that is filled with grand-scale illusions, jaw-dropping magic, hilarious comedy and audience participation. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the box office at 903.792.4992.

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The Run the Line Half Marathon is a unique opportunity to run in one half marathon in Texas and Arkansas on a USATF certified single-loop course ( AR19015WJT). The race features a half-marathon run and walk, as well as 2- and 4-person relay teams. Find more info at https://runsignup.com/ RunLineHalfMarathon

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Texarkana Resources is excited to be hosting our first annual Galentine’s Day Ladies Brunch Fundraiser. Mimosas, brunch, shopping, photos, coffee, friendship and more will be this wonderful Saturday morning. Tickets are $50+ and can be purchased online.

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Dodge, duck, dip and dive your way to glory at The Plex’s Dodgeball Tournament on January 28th starting at 11 am. Individual entries at $20, teams are $100 and a cash prize will be awarded to the winning team. Team members must be 18 or older to participate. Food trucks will be on-site for refreshments.

Breast Cancer Support Group With Kathy Baker with My Faulty Gene. Monthly meetings at Oak Street Church. 401 Waterfall St. Texarkana, TX. Meetings are from 4pm -6pm with different speakers each month. Zoom Meetings available.

Celebrate Mardi Gras with this parade & party rollin’ through the streets of downtown Texarkana with the theme Rollin’ Down Broad. Marching & dance groups, classic cars, and jeeps, food trucks and craft vendors; then stay late for the after parties at downtown venues.

Lawn chairs & strollers are encouraged. We can’t wait to see you!

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Temple Memorial Pediatric Center is once again reinventing the popular TV show “Dancing With The Stars”, and bringing it to Northridge Country Club! Dancing With Our Stars is an annual fundraiser that benefits the children who receive therapy at Temple. Tickets are sold for $125 per person. Tickets include buffet dinner, drinks, dessert, a chance to bid on silent auction items; plus the opportunity to watch “Dancing With Our Stars”. There is also a General Admission ticket for $40. General admission ticket includes dessert, a chance to bid on the silent auction items, and a chance to experience the “Dancing With Our Stars.” The attire is cocktail for the evening. Call 903-7942705 for ticket information.

Local Rescues

What a place to be...waking up in the mornings, overlooking the lake on SW Arkansas best kept secret, Beautiful Lake Erling. Privacy, seclusion, and serenity, all while watching the deer, turkey, and other wildlife in your own back yard. You are steps away from some of the South’s best fishing. These beautiful lots with lake frontage are limited and are beginning to sell quickly. This is a gated subdivision with limited access. Lakefront property is extremely hard to find and availability is very limited on this lake. B.A.S.S. ranked Lake Erling the top 100 lakes in the United States.