ALT Magazine February 2022

ALT magazine

covering the ark-la-tex FEBRUARY 2022 ALT-MAG.COM

THE ART OF COMPROMISE

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THE ART OF COMPROMISE

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WEDDINGS AND ENGAGEMENT

covering the ark-la-tex COO / PUBLISHER Debbie Brower EDITOR Alyssa Bertrand

READER'S CHOICE WINNERS

SALES & MARKETING Debbie Brower 903.334.9605

VALENTINE'S DAY INFORMATION

GRAPHIC DESIGN Alyssa Bertrand

For a dve r t i s i n g i n fo r m a t i o n , c a l l 9 0 3. 334. 9605

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FISH TALES CALENDAR OF EVENTS LOCAL RESCUES

PHOTOGRAPHY Debbie Brower FEATURED WRITER Anne Granado CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Debbie Brower, Mike Brower, Dustin Stringer, Suzie Tyler If you have an event you would like to include in our Upcoming Events section, please e-mail us at: alyssa@alt-mag.com.

A LT - M AG . c o m (903) 334-9605 | info@alt-mag.com 101 Slaton Dr. Nash, TX 75569 ALT Magazine is published the 1st business day of every month. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission of ALT Magazine is strictly prohibited. ALT Magazine is distributed free of charge. Direct mail subscriptions are available for $42.00 per year. Contributions from our readers are welcome. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material.

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From the Publisher.

It’s that time of year again! Yes, it’s Valentine’s Day, but it’s also our Reader’s Choice Edition! I love telling every single winner what they were voted to win by people all over town. This year we had 50% more votes than we have in years past. Could that be because more people had extra time, now working from home or off because of COVID? Or maybe just because they wanted the people they love and trust to be recognized? Whatever the case, I am so happy to announce our top businesses and people!

Many of our winners are known by us. Many we have no clue who they are.

We try to do our research on all the nominees, just to be sure they are from our area and are actual businesses, that are still in business. You wouldn’t believe how long that takes us – but we like all of our contests to be carefully vetted. I love it when I get to meet new people because they have been nominated. Such a fun time of year!

Valentine’s Day makes it even more fun! For Mike and I, every day is Valentine’s Day. We enjoy making each other smile. As we grew older, that becomes more and more important. We both tend to get everything we want throughout the year, so gifts are really not essential anymore. We love to travel and use that as a way to “gift” each other with memories that will last forever.

This month, we decided to tell our story. It has not always been pretty and has been difficult at times. It could now be considered somewhat of a fairytale, but if I am honest, I probably drive him crazy at times more than he drives me crazy at times. We just let that go – most of the time!

HA! He tends to want to be “right” all the time – to the point that he was wrong one time and I had him sign a paper, notarized, to commemorate the occasion!

Mike and I are both so stubborn! Once he told me I had a budget for our groceries of $100 every week, for a family of four and two dogs. So I told him if he thought he could do it better, go for it. I’ve never enjoyed shopping much so it was a relief to get that chore off my list. He made his way to the grocery store and returned home, so proud of himself for spending just shy of $100. Well, that was until I asked him where the paper towels, toilet paper, dog food, and a few other things were. He told me I hadn’t told him we needed that. I told him that he never told me what I needed, I just checked and bought what we needed. He decided right then that maybe he would just let me buy groceries and spend a little bit more.

Sometimes you just have to compromise.

Our lives have been full of compromise. We continue to think about what the other would like, even with our travel. Mike has always liked the cold weather, while I like the beach. So we now go to Montana or Alaska (which I love, by the way) and we also go to the beach (which he loves now – and that all has to do with fishing wherever he goes.) It’s the best of both worlds and it’s the world we live in.

I hope everyone has a wonderful Valentine’s Day. May God bless you and yours.

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LOVE HAS TO BE TWO PEOPLE COMING TOGETHER AND SAYING I WANT THIS, EVEN WHEN IT GETS MESSY AND HARD.

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Every year, the world writes the same formula for the perfect Valentine’s Day. First, make reservations at a nice restaurant (or at least one with sentimental value). Second, purchase flowers, cards, and gifts that make the other person feel special. Third, dress to impress. This tried-and-true, media-approved recipe for the perfect night promises romance for every couple. However, Mike and Debbie Brower, who have been married 32 years, don’t buy into this method for one day of romance per year. Normally, the two are home on Valentine’s Day in their comfiest clothes, enjoying one of Mike’s famous grilled steaks. The fact that they opt out of the world’s definition of the perfect Valentine’s Day is not surprising since Mike and Debbie have always carved their own path right from the very start. You see, their love story has always been unconventional.

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THE ART OF COMPROMISE

By: Anne Granado

Once upon a time, in 1987, in the small town of Texarkana, two somewhat-jaded divorcees saw each other at a local bar. They had met once before at a friend’s party, but on that night, Debbie had recently ended a bad date, and the story provided enough material for her and Mike to laugh about for hours. “I had been set up on a blind date, and during that date, the guy’s car was ‘stolen.’

In all actuality, it was repossessed, and I told my friends I didn’t need their help ever again with getting me a date,” Debbie says. “Mike and I talked about it that evening and laughed and laughed. We started dating the next week.”

Debbie never played the role of damsel in distress.

A single mom at the time, Debbie was divorced with two young children. Michael was ten-years-old, and Jaclyn was only two and a half. She worked as a certified legal assistant civil litigation specialist at Young, Patton, and Folsom, and she loved her job. But, Debbie had always been a dreamer.

Her desire to conquer anything set in her path set her apart from others. She was hard-working, intelligent, and independent, and these are the exact qualities that drew Mike to her. “She was beautiful, but more than that, she had a life. She didn’t need me to make her happy; she was happy with herself,” Mike says. “As an independent, A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

type-A personality myself, I was drawn to her because she valued those same things. She was, and has always been, her own woman.”

Mike never wanted to be the hero of the story.

He didn’t ride in on a white horse; instead, it was more like a fishing boat. He wasn’t looking for a princess; he was looking for a partner, a partner in fishing, a partner in traveling, a partner in life.

Divorced without children, Mike started working at the Bowie County Appraisal District in 1981, and he is still there today. When he was not working, Mike was fishing, a love that began when he was only five years old. Then, when he was only ten, his grandfather started taking Mike to Lake O’ the Pines and letting him work with a guide, which only deepened his passion for the sport. Mike’s love for fishing has never waivered, and Debbie did not try to take fishing away from Mike when they started dating. On the contrary, she liked that they both had time alone. “I was attracted to Mike because I thought he was fun to be around and handsome,” Debbie says. “I also loved that he seemed to like to have fun together but was also willing to have time for ourselves.”

During the week, if the couple got together, they would go out to eat or stay home and watch 013

movies. On weekends with the kids, Debbie would spend time with them, and Mike would go fishing.

On the weekends without the kids, the couple would go out to eat, see a movie, or go fishing together.

From the very beginning, Debbie appreciated Mike’s independence and trustworthiness. “We dated for around a year and a half before we got married.

He took me in his boat to the lake on our first date, where we had a charcuterie board and wine for our dinner. It was beautiful at sunset and so romantic – probably one of the few actual romantic things he has ever done!” Debbie says, “He is not what you would call a ‘romantic at heart.’ One of my friends told me her boyfriend told her that ‘she was the sun and he was the moon, and the moon just didn’t shine without the sun because he missed her so much!’

That relationship lasted a few months! I’ll take the non-romantic man that is stable and loves me and my kids over the romance anytime!”

As Mike and Debbie grew closer, people in their inner circle wondered if the couple would last.

They were both hard-headed, Type-A, and set-intheir-ways, and the couple admits that it was not a fairytale romance. “The year and a half that we dated was rocky. Our biggest problem was that both of us had strong personalities and wanted our own way.

However, we actually enjoyed being by ourselves and doing things with each other,” Mike says. “I think we have stayed together so long because she never put up a fight about my fishing, and I never said anything about her going to the beach. Over the years, we’ve decided it was better not to sweat the small stuff, and most of it was and still is small stuff.”

However, Debbie’s friends just could not understand how this type of relationship could be what she wanted. They asked her, “How can you stand him being gone all the time?” Debbie always told them that it was really the best of both worlds. “My relationship with Mike was very different from my first marriage. We gave each other space, and we were always real with each other,” Debbie says.

After a year and a half of dating, Debbie became worried about how attached her daughter Jaclyn had gotten to Mike. Debbie had always been careful about introducing the men she dated to her children, but her relationship with Mike was different. “We did argue a lot in those early years as we worked 014

to compromise with each other, but once we had a terrible argument, and I told him that the only reason I thought he stayed was because of Jaclyn!” Debbie says. “She was so young when we started dating, and they had a great relationship. He thought of her as his kid, and he didn’t want to lose her.”

Though the bond he had with her children was great, it was scary to think that Mike could walk away at any time. Rather than wait for Mike to go down on one knee like Prince Charming, Debbie decided to take matters into her own hands. At first, she started hinting at the subject of getting married. Sometimes the discussions were good, and sometimes they were not. Mike, who did not have a good experience in his first marriage, was not excited about taking the plunge again. Eventually, the two could not agree, and they split up. “Shortly after we broke up, I was out with my girlfriends and saw him. We ended up going back to my house to talk, and I told him that I wanted to get married and that if he wasn’t interested in that long term, then we were over. Ultimately, I told him that he had one week to ask me to marry him. He had until my birthday next weekend,” Debbie says. “Of course, he wasn’t really sure he liked that ultimatum, but at that point, I didn’t care. That was the terms of us being together.”

With a looming deadline on the horizon, the two spent a great week together, and on Debbie’s birthday, Mike took her to the races in Shreveport, where she placed an underdog bet with 80-1 odds on “Midnight Reply” just because of the horse’s name. She won a lot of money that fateful day. “I was ecstatic! When we left there and returned to my home to change clothes before going out that evening, Mike handed me a package with two diamonds in it. He pretty much told me if I wanted to get married, he did, too,” Debbie says. “Of course, I laughed and said yes! Best decision ever!”

Mike knew that Debbie would probably want to design her ring, so instead of proposing the usual way, he gave her two diamonds: one diamond was larger, and one was better quality. He told her to choose one. She chose the one with better quality and had her dream ring made. The following Christmas, Mike gave her the larger diamond, and she decided to get a replica made of his grandmother’s ring. The original ring was set in A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

Bill and Mary Stueart: Best Man and Matron of Honor

Bill and Mary Stueart

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platinum, so jewelers could not work on it to resize or repair the setting. When Debbie had the replica made, she placed it in gold. “I wear both of the rings to this day,” Debbie says. “They are the only two rings I wear.”

A few months later, Mike and Debbie joined in marriage on November 2, 1989, in a small ceremony that rebuked the idea that weddings had to be big, grand affairs. Pat and Jack Thompson offered the couple their home in Texarkana, Arkansas, for the event. Pat worked with Debbie at Young, Patton, and Folsom. “Pat is one of the best people I know, and their home was a beautiful spot for our wedding. It was small and intimate, without many people there to disrupt the calm. We just had our family and our two best friends, Bill and Mary Stueart, in attendance,” Debbie says. “The reception was held at our home on Olive Street, and all our friends joined us there to celebrate. The most vivid memory I recall is how happy we both were at the end of the day. It was such a small, intimate wedding, just like we wanted.”

Though the wedding was perfect, the honeymoon brought out the couple’s different ideas of “relaxing.”

The beach trip destination to Acapulco was a gift from a friend. While Debbie wanted to lay on the beach and read a book, Mike was not satisfied with just lying in the sun. “We go on trips together. While Mike desires to go, go, go, I want to sleep in, lay on the beach, go to the spa, relax, or maybe shop. Also, the top of Mike’s feet are as white as a newborn baby’s bottom. They have NEVER seen the sun,” Debbie says. “So, on the first day of our honeymoon on the beach, his feet got COOKED.” Even though it is not what many would expect from a newly-married couple, Mike and Debbie would take separate trips for a while after the honeymoon. Mike would go somewhere to fish, and Debbie would go to the beach to visit her mom. “It gave each of us space to ourselves. We also spent time fishing together and having fun. So we had the best of both – time for self and time for us,” Debbie says.

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Though Debbie typically loves the more “girly” things in life, she has enjoyed being on the lake with Mike since they started dating, and after their wedding, they spent a lot of time fishing together. The two even entered a “Guys and Gals” fishing tournament.

“The deal was that I had to fish 30 minutes out of every hour until we caught a limit. Typically I only had to be in the boat with him – he was that good at fishing!” Debbie says. “However, by the time we had fished a few years, I won Big Bass for the women and was so excited. He was so proud of me! We loved it!”

Over the years, and especially since they became empty-nesters, Debbie and Mike have become closer than ever before. A wine cruise up the coast of California years ago taught them that they could find compromises that made traveling together a perfect blend of their interests. “We both already enjoyed drinking wine, and we learned more about the types of wine on the cruise and came to appreciate it more,” Debbie says. “We also went to Napa, and we still have a case of wine from our favorite winery, Jessup Cellars, sent to us twice a year. We had a blast on that trip!”

Next, the couple signed up for an Alaskan cruise, which had been on both of their bucket lists. Mike would sign up for the fishing excursions on their trips, and Debbie would lay out on the deck, read a book, and relax. Now the couple has taken many trips together to locations like Belize and Montana, and they expect to return to Montana this coming August. They are going to Hubbard’s Lodge, where Mike will fish with Orvis guides, and Debbie has some new plans of her own. “We love to travel together more now. Mike still loves to go fishing, while I love to relax at the resort where we stay,” Debbie says. “We work together, compromise, and spend lots of time laughing at so many things. He is my soulmate.”

Their own interests have inspired Debbie to try something new in preparation for their upcoming Montana trip. She is currently taking horseback riding lessons from Richard Hampton, and she is taking a landscape photography class. Her dream A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

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is to capture beautiful landscape photos from the back of her trusty steed on their upcoming vacation.

“Landscape photography is very different from taking portraits, and I have heard from so many friends how they love to ride horses on beautiful trails that you can’t access by vehicle,” Debbie says. “I asked Mike, ‘Do you think I’m crazy? I mean, I’m old, and I’m learning to ride a horse.’ But, he said he thought it was great.”

Debbie has never been content with the status quo; she refuses to be stagnant. Always learning and going towards the next goal, Debbie appreciates that Mike has been by her side to support each and every one of her ideas through the years. Yes, Mike loves fishing, but Mike also loves Debbie. “Mike doesn’t write me poems or send me flowers all the time, but he shows me love every day. No matter what I have dreamed up over the years, Mike never says, ‘No, don’t go for it.’ He may say, ‘Are you sure you can pay the bills by doing that?’ But, when I tell him my ideas, he always tells me to go for it,” Debbie says.

“He believes in me.”

When they were first dating, Debbie was working for Young, Patton, and Folsom, but after leaving their firm, she decided to go back to school to be a court reporter. She studied at night, took the exam, and became a legal assistant and freelance court reporter. However, she found that she was working many depositions outside of the 40 hour work week.

She even moved a desk into the bedroom so that she was near Mike when she worked long hours on holidays, weekends, and evenings. Eager for more time with her kids and husband, Debbie returned to school. People asked her if she was going back to school to be a lawyer, but Debbie made a complete change and returned for a business degree. Then, she went to work for BWI in their marketing department for the next seven to eight

years before moving to another company. However, Debbie’s friends kept noticing and asking her about the lovely photos she was taking of her daughter Jaclyn. “Jaclyn’s friends’ moms would ask me to take pictures, and I would. Then, Jaclyn would get prints of them and share them with everyone. I was making a little bit of money doing that, and I kept having people tell me that I should go into photography full time. My client list just kept growing,” Debbie says.

“Next thing I knew, I was working 40 hours at my daytime job and then working 20-30 hours taking and processing photos. I told Mike that I was going to quit my regular job and go into photography full time. He reminded me that Jaclyn was going to school at a private college, but he also believed that if I thought I could do it full time, I could.”

Not only did Debbie make a living doing photography, but she also grew her brand, Image Forward Photography, into a thriving business known for gorgeous portraits of weddings, engagements, maternity, senior portraits, and more. As one of the top wedding photographers in the Texarkana area, Debbie spent most weekends taking photos, and her work inspired many other photographers in the community. For many people, this would have been enough: she found her creative niche and built a successful business. But, Debbie never wanted to stop learning. She started teaching photography classes at Texas A&M University-Texarkana, and when a local magazine needed help doing the layout, she offered to use her limited experience and learn more. Eventually, the magazine went under, but Debbie was left with skills that propelled her to start her own local magazine–ALT. “When the magazine I was working for closed, many people approached me about continuing this type of work in a new publication. I ended up praying about that for a while, and I started the magazine fifteen years ago,” Debbie says. “Mike was like, ‘Are you sure you want to do this?’ But, every single time I’ve changed jobs or tried something new, he says, ‘Ok, I know you can do this.’ He’s always in my corner.”

Mike is always surprising Debbie with things he knows she will like. He listens to her off-the-cuff comments about a pretty pair of earrings or a nice jacket, and he shows up with them or puts them in her stocking. “Mike shows me that he listens to me, and he cares about what makes me happy,” Debbie says. “When we go on trips, he knows that I like to

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sleep in, even though he cannot! So, he gets up and goes fishing until I text him that I’m awake, and then, he comes back to the room.”

Despite some of the original bets placed by friends, Mike and Debbie have enjoyed 32 years of marriage when some thought they would not make it six months. They have turned into that old married couple who knows what the other will probably say without even asking.

They know each other’s quirks and faults, and they know it’s ok to laugh about it and move on. “To me, love is wanting to be with someone no matter what,” Mike says.

“What I’ve learned from our marriage is that two strong personalities can be together 32 years if you don’t take yourself too seriously.”

Debbie says that one of the biggest tips they can share with other young couples looking for a romance that will last long after the wedding is to walk away from an argument when you are getting too angry. “Sometimes, you just have to stop talking before you say something you regret. Inevitably when we’ve cooled down, one of us will come and apologize,” Debbie says. “I have also learned a lot about compromising from our marriage.

With both of us always wanting to be the boss, that can become quite difficult! We have a joke that when we are drinking something out of the same type of glass, we will put each of our glasses on our right side. We can remember that because we are ‘always right!’ Of course, then we laugh about which glass is which!”

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In the end, there are not any glass slippers or fairytale endings to this story because it is the story of two real people fighting to make a real relationship work, thrive, and grow in everyday life. The dream proposal, perfect wedding, and Instagram-worthy Valentine’s Day are not their goal. Instead, Mike and Debbie believe that real romance is the work that happens when two people love each other for who they are, and they have spent the last three decades bucking tradition to be true to themselves and each other. “Accept each other. The issues in your marriage can be overcome if you work hard to make it happen,” Debbie says. “We are both bosses now, and we have to put our boss hats on the shelf when we get home and become partners. Working together, we have overcome so much. We are so lucky to have each other.”

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Thomas & Victoria Bias SEPTEMBER 25, 2021

Our Story..

Victoria and Thomas met in 2013; she had just moved back from going to school in Florida. She knew about Thomas before because he worked with her mom at Academy Sports. Thomas started coming to darts with Victoria and her family and with every passing week, they got to know each other a little more, and started dating!

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Parents of the Bride: Vance and Dena Henke, Tom and Mary Hensgen Parents of the Groom: Mike and Jeanie Bias Maid of Honor: Jessie Bias Bridesmaids: Amanda Degroot, Denise Williams Best Man: Scott Bias Groomsmen: Lucas Bias, Stevan Bias Pastor/Officiant: Wendall Satterfield Bridal Hair: Belinda Love-Thorton Bridal Make-up: Camille Hubbard Venue: Garrison Gardens Wedding Coordinator: Karen Guilbert Cake: Butterfly Kissed Etc. Caterer: Golden Corral Photographer: Theresa Franklin Wedding Invites: Magnet Street Wedding Dress: A timeless dress passed down from her mother’s wedding Wedding Jewelry: Timeless pieces from her mother Tuxedos: JcPenny A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

We have family all across the United States and some outside of the country so it was amazing to see everyone together for our big day!

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#benchmarktxkspecials #chefbeckytxk #eatlocaltxk Start the year off right with us!

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Brought to you by Jason and Chef Becky Williams

(903) 949-6720 benchmarktxk.com A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y

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Ethan & Ashlyn Collie

Our Story..

OCTOBER 30, 2021

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We met during our sophomore year of college at Arkansas State University on New Year’s Eve, and we started dating shortly after. We made so many fun memories and finished college together. After graduation, we moved to Little Rock to start our first “adult jobs” and loved every second of it. Unfortunately, shortly after our first few months in Little Rock, Ethan lost his grandmother, and I lost my mom. We knew we wanted to spend forever with each other, but we each needed time to grieve our unexpected individual losses. Gradually, we helped each other through these tough days and took up new hobbies of running and cooking. We adopted a new dog, Jax, to add to our fur family with our older dog, Sophie, and our cat, Elly. Once the pandemic hit, we weren’t sure what the future held. We both started working from home full time and took to outdoor activities to keep us sane. In October 2020, Ethan made reservations at my mom’s favorite restaurant for us to eat in honor of her birthday. She was my best friend, so it meant so much to me to honor her! After we ate, Ethan drove us out to Two Rivers Bridge, where we had one of our first dates and often returned with our dogs for Saturday walks. It was slightly overcast, so not many people were there, and I also started wondering, “Why on earth are we here??” In the middle of the bridge, Ethan proposed. As he took to his one knee, I could see my two best friends from Jonesboro holding a sign handpainted by Ethan that said, “Can’t Wait To Be Collie.” The emotions flooded in, and of course, I said, “Yes!” As we walked off the bridge to head home, Ethan smiled big and said, “I have one more surprise for you.” I had no idea what else could be planned, but as we entered our home, all of my friends and family were there to surprise me with an engagement party! I cried alligator tears seeing everyone who meant so much to us and who traveled across the United States to be there. After losing my mom and Ethan’s grandma, we were left in Little Rock with no family. Somehow, Ethan planned this huge surprise during a pandemic to gather my two brothers from Missouri and Texas, along with my dad from North Carolina and several other close friends from across the state. This was one of the happiest moments of my life, and the love I felt that day is something I’ll never forget! - Written by Ashlyn

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Parents of the Bride: Samuel Craig Johnson Matron/Maid of Honor: Shana Childress, Kassidy Elam Bridesmaids: Whitney Johnson, Shelby Brown Best Man: Kyle Lovelace Groomsmen: Austin Johnson, Coltin Johnson, Hayden Starrett, Lennon Smith Pastor / Officiant: Chris Schroeder Flowers: Persnickety Too Bridal Hair: Bobbi Pollock Bridal Make-Up: Brittany Hill Venue: Garrison Gardens

Wedding Coordinator: pre-wedding, Caroline Ply Events – day of, Karen Guilbert Cake: Heavenly Sweets & Flower Boutique Caterer: The Guilty Pig Catering Company DJ: Garrison Gardens Photographer: Breanne Bradshaw Photography

Videographer: Eric’s Xtreme Video Wedding Invitations: Minted Wedding Dress: Low’s Bridal Wedding Jewelry: Sissy’s Log Cabin Tuxedos: A Step Above A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

Our wedding day would not have been the same without our friends, family, and all of our amazing vendors. Saying our wedding took an army to happen would be an understatement!

Everyone who helped behind the scenes, participated, or just attended our special day helped us make memories that will last our entire lifetime. One thing we really wanted was for our wedding to be intimate, authentic, and fun. I can’t help but feel that our day fully encapsulated all of that. I would not have changed a thing from the tears of joy, sorrow, and laughter. Although it was the most magical day, we also took the time to include my mom and Ethan’s grandma as they danced the night away with us in spirit. Sometimes it is easy to get caught up in life, but our wedding day lives as a beautiful memory to constantly remind us that we love each other, we are loved, and this life can be every bit spectacular with just the people you surround yourself with.

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SO EXCITED

for spring!

Jennie Parker Certified Groomer

Services

appointments, walk-ins, and after hour emergencies welcomed!

Breed Specific Cut De-Shedding Treatment Hair Coloring Flea Dip Teeth Cleaning Daycare & Boarding Dog Microchip Available

Jump Start your spring planting with

twitty NURSERY, INC.

4815 W. 7th, Texarkana, TX | 903-838-5591 www.twittynursery.com

CALL US TODAY! (903) 691-9786

3014 Richmond Road . Texarkana, TX 75503

Wondering if contact lenses are for you?

Family Eye Care Clinic is a regional eye care facility serving Northeast Texas, Southwest Arkansas and Northwest Louisiana.

Therapeutic Optometrists Dr. Terry Foster Dr. Randal Cox Dr. Adam Cox 028

Ask our doctors and staff for details regarding our Contact Lens Test Drive Program at your next examination. Our staff will train anyone and everyone to successfully insert, remove, and wear contacts comfortably. We will take the extra time to make sure you love your contacts!

719 W. Main St | Atlanta, Texas 903-796-8288 | www.familyeyecareclinic.net A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

619 East 6th Street Texarkana, AR 71854 www.NorthfieldClinic.net

870-772-8622

• Functional Medicine • Nutrirional Therapy • Bio-identical • Infertility Hormone Therapy • Fibromyalgia • Cancer, Hepatitis and • Weight Loss Cardiovascular Support • Addiction • Thyroid Support • Back and Neck Pain

Dan L. Martin, DOM Doctor of Oriental Medicine Northfield Acupuncture Clinic is an Oriental Medicine Clinic

Bone-In Wings, Boneless Wings, Tenders & THIGHS!

Call the Wing Experts!

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

WHERE FLAVOR GETS ITS WINGS.

• Hickory Smoked BBQ • Garlic Parmesan • Louisiana Rub • Lemon Pepper • Hawaiian • Mild • Spicy Korean Q • Original Hot • Mango Habanero • Atomic • Orange Szechuan • Cajun

NEW LOCATION COMING SOON!!

4444 West 7th Street, Wake Village, TX 75501

903.255.0090 | 2700 Richmond Road | Suite 14A1 903.792.WING(9464) | Corner of N. State Line and Texas Blvd A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

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Eric & Colleen Woods AUGUST 7, 2021

Eric and I met online in June of 2015 thru a dating app. We had both recently become single and were beginning to explore “the dating pool” again. We exchanged a few messages and nothing really came of it.

Two months later, I was with friends at. We were all sitting outside when I saw Eric come in. I didn’t remember his name or even recognize.

I just saw a tall, dark, extremely handsome man walk in. He ordered his beer and I stared at him. He turned to come outside and I panicked.

He sat down, at an empty picnic table, sipped his beer and said hello to the friend sitting in front of me, Brian Jones. Then he politely said ‘hello’ to me. I couldn’t remember his name! Crap. He said, “Colleen, right?” I blushed. He remembered my name. Now I felt even worse. He scooted down and joined our table and we all hung out for a bit. My girlfriend had to leave quickly to get home to her kids and I realized that I didn’t get his number.

Then I did something I’ve never done before and sent a FB message with just my phone number. He called me within forty-five seconds and we talked for three-and-half hours. After that, we were almost inseparable.

Eric was living in Minden, Louisiana while attending instrumentation school. I was delivering flowers and teaching yoga in Texarkana. He came home every weekend to help his dad work on numerous building projects at their home during the day, and spent all his free time helping me work on my house.

After three months, I knew I was falling in love with him, and I had to tell him how I felt. The next day, he said he was sorry, but he didn’t feel that way about me. I was heartbroken.

The following week, he came to bring my key back. He asked me for a hug and I complied. Then, he held me. For a long time. I was definitely confused. So I asked him, “Is this the last time we’re going to hug?” He replied, “No.” He later admitted, that was the moment he knew he loved me and didn’t want to let go. And now, here we are. Still holding on.

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Eric and I have such an amazing tribe of people who have surrounded us the last few years. We wanted to use our day to celebrate with them. It started at 6 a.m. with a private bridal yoga class at Thrive Yoga. We choose a 10:05 a.m. start to our morning wedding and served brunch, Bloody Marys, and Mimosas. We also designed a wedding day newspaper called the “Woods Report” for our guests that included QR codes to follow our wedding music playlist, as well as our PayPal and Venmo accounts for anyone wanting to gift towards our Hawaiian honeymoon. We were married by a Native American Indian from Pueblo Zuni in a traditional ceremony in which the groom gifts the bride a pair of soft-soled moccasins. In lieu of traditional attendants, we opted for our Australian Shepherds: Sadie and Honeybee. We shared a choreographed dance with our guests as our first dance and invited our tribe to join us in a flash mob. We drove off in our 1974 Ford Bronco and then invited our guests to a private theatre showing of Disney’s Jungle Cruise at Cinemark 14. Afterward, we invited our tribe to our home for a Hobbit’s “Second Breakfast” and “Ride with the Bride” where Colleen gave guests a ride around the block in their Bronco. It was absolutely perfect. - Written by: Colleen

Parents of the Bride: Jim and Carolyn Narens Parents of the Groom: Mark and Karen Woods Flower Girls: BeeBee, our Aussie Mini Ring Bearer: Sadie, our Aussie rescue fail Pastor/Officiant: Greg Yawakia, Red Tail Hawk Flowers: Elizabeth Lofton, The FlowerRoom Bridal Hair: Holly Orr, Creative Soul Salon Bridal Make-up: Kayla Lewis Beauty Venue: Garrison Gardens Wedding Coordinator: Karen Guilbert Cake: Bri Flanagan Caterer: Preston Greggory, Main Street Cafe Rentals: Dot’s Photographer: Brian Jones Videographer: Brian Jones Wedding Dance Choreography: Ms. Joni at Joni’s Gym Wedding Programs: Rebecca Watts Ceremony Music: Colleen Narens Wedding Dress: A Sherry Hill one-of-a-kind dress from Gracyn Elizabeth Wedding Jewelry: Gracyn Elizabeth Tuxedos: Gracyn Elizabeth A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

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Carl Jensen & Alyssa Bertrand

A look into their engagement: Alyssa Bertrand, of Texarkana, Texas, and Carl Jensen, of Texarkana, Texas, are pleased to announce their engagement. Alyssa, 27, is the daughter of Betty Bertrand and the late Robert Bertrand. Alyssa graduated from Liberty-Eylau High School and Texas A&M University-Texarkana with a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication and a minor in Sociology. She is currently employed with ALT Magazine as the Editor.

Carl, 32, is the son of Robert and Ladona Adams. Carl graduated from Liberty-Eylau High School and Texas A&M UniversityTexarkana with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Recently graduating from Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy, he is currently employed as a Sherriff’s Deputy for Little River County.

The couple is now planning a fall wedding and looks forward to residing in Little River County.

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Carl and Alyssa knew about each other for a while before physically meeting on the Texas A&M University-Texarkana campus. Soon becoming classmates, Carl was a very outspoken and outgoing person, while Alyssa tended to sit in the back of the class and remain quiet. They saw each other in the elevator from time to time, where Alyssa was her awkward self. In March 2016, Alyssa found herself in a full leg brace after dislocating her knee and breaking her ankle. The very outspoken Carl decided to poke fun of her being “Hop Along,” and from that moment, they started a friendship that would lead to dating in December 2016. Their love for each other would grow, and they found themselves spending weekends at the ball fields and taking adventures. On December 11, 2021, at Carl’s company Christmas party, he dropped down on one knee and asked Alyssa to marry him. They are excited to experience their next adventure into marriage together. Carl and Alyssa also have a beautiful female Aussie dog named Sawyer, who is their world.

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Thank You!

Thank you, For voting us the

Best Social Media Presence In Texarkana for 3 years in a row!

For nominating us Best Equipment Rentals

“We may have all come from different ships, but we’re in the same boat now.”

-Martin Luther King Jr.

Dot’s has been helping customers get things done for over 30 years.

From concrete and construction to cleaning and garden, lifts, skid steers, excavators & so much more. Dot’s Got It!

Your trusted source for party & equipment rentals for 34 years and counting.

Community connections is a goal we are striving to reach!

HOMEOWNER & CONTRACTOR RENTALS • WEDDING & PARTY RENTALS

(903) 798-3116 | www.texarkanapolice.net

Time in a Bottle Day Spa Happy Valentine’s Day - Sweet Spot Massages Package- $130 Two (one hour) Stress Therapy Massage

- Couples Retreat - $135 One hour Couple Massage

- Lots of Love Package - $135 Signature Facial & one hour Stress Therapy Massage

- True Love’s Hands & Toes - $169 Ultimate Pedi, European Facial & one hour massage

Thank You Texarkana, for voting us,

BEST Body Wax & Body Wraps!

- Relax in the Name of Love - $95 45 minute CBD Massage with CBD oil facial.

GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE! 2801 Robin Lane • Texarkana, Texas • (903) 832-6951 036

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

Is your small engine equipment ready for spring?

Visit Small Engine Specialist of Texarkana today for parts and expertise knowledge on small engine and outdoor equipment.

“I could not have asked for a better

from beginning to end.

903.792.0562 www.silvermoononbroad.com

Historic Downtown Texarkana West Broad at Texas Blvd.

Texarkana, TX

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

1223 Spruce Street Texarkana, TX Tuesday-Friday 8-5 Saturday 8-12 903•793•1223 MyFarmers.Bank | MEMBER FDIC A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

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READER'S CHOICE WINNERS

2022

GOODS & SERVICES Athletic / Casual Wear WINNER: Racquet and Jog RUNNER UP: Prodigy Yoga

Auto Service & Tires

WINNER: Discount Wheel & Tire Pros RUNNER UP: Discount Tire Store

Auto Stereo & Accessories: WINNER: ST Custom Mobile Audio RUNNER UP: Best Buy

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Bank

WINNER: Farmer’s Bank & Trust RUNNER UP: Bancorp South

Body Wax

WINNER: Time in a Bottle RUNNER UP: ReNew Medical Spa

Body Wraps

WINNER: Time in a Bottle RUNNER UP: Sheena Richardson / Spa Girls

Botox/Fillers

WINNER: Lonstar Health & Wellness RUNNER UP: Eternal Beauty Medical Spa A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

DID YOU KNOW?

Red River Credit Union began in 1943 with the vision of a small group of friends. These friends, all employees of Red River Army Depot, saw that pooling their funds to make occasional loans to one another gave them a leg up and provided a financial security not offered elsewhere. They became members and owners in their new financial institution—Red River Employees Credit Union.

Red River Credit Union employs over 350 residents across their service area to manage over $1.3 Billion in assets. Membership is over 120,800 strong.

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magazine

2812 Richmond Rd. Richmond Park Center Texarkana, TX 75503

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(903)735-2336

Monday-Saturday 10-6 www.micahsjewelers.com

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Joseph Raymond | Best Artist 2022!

JOSEPHRAYMONDFINEART.COM

Joseph Raymond Fine Art Gallery 214 E. Broad St Downtown Texarkana (Next to Verona)

903-280-5878

Open Fri 6-9pm Sat 12-3pm and by appointment

ow!

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Chic Clothing

Dance Studio

WINNER: The Rancher’s Wife Boutique RUNNER UP: Abby Gayles Boutique

WINNER: Judith McCarty School of Dancing RUNNER UP: Joni's Gym - Dance Cheer Centre

Cleaners

Electronics Repair Service

Computer Repair/ Service Company

Emergency Room

WINNER: Holiday Cleaners RUNNER UP: Fashion Cleaners

WINNER: Complete Computing Solutions RUNNER UP: Texarkana Computer

Credit Union

WINNER: Red River Federal Credit Union RUNNER UP: TEXAR Federal Credit Union

WINNER: Phone Pros RUNNER UP: PC NetSource

WINNER: Texarkana Emergency Center & Hospital RUNNER UP: CHRISTUS St. Michael’s Health System

Equipment Rentals

WINNER: Dot's Rental RUNNER UP: River Valley Tractor (Texarkana Tractor)

Chris A. Ferguson, Family Dentistry

Thank You, for voting me

BEST DENTIST Texarkana!

5504 Cowhorn Creek Road | Texarkana, TX 75503 | (903)838- 8513

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Facials

Gift Store

WINNER: Beauty & Wellness Center RUNNER UP: Annie Rateliff Skincare

WINNER: The Village Floral & Gifts RUNNER UP: Fan Fare Gifts

Fitness Center/ Gym

Gymnastics

WINNER: Anytime Fitness / Wake Village RUNNER UP: Legends Gym

WINNER: Joni's Gym - Dance Cheer Centre RUNNER UP: Twin City Cheer and Gymnastics

Florist

Heating and Cooling Services

Garden Store/ Landscaping

Home Builder

WINNER: Ruth’s Flowers RUNNER UP: Persnickety Too

WINNER: Freeman's Landscape RUNNER UP: Twitty Nursery

WINNER: Big Mike's Heating and AC RUNNER UP: 30 Point Service

WINNER: Greg McKay Construction

RUNNER UP: Jimmy Anderson Construction

DID YOU KNOW?

• The Asia Pacific region holds almost 50% of the global beauty industry market share.

• Women spend around $313 monthly on beauty products.

• 48% of millennials use skincare products with CBD oil.

• 35% of women aged 60 or older use makeup products every day.

• The global makeup market will probably be worth around $85 billion in 2024. The global beauty industry as a whole is worth $511 billion.

• A standard bottle of shampoo consists of 90% of water.

• 96% of beauty brands are active on social media.

• Consumers are 40% more willing to try new beauty products than before the coronavirus pandemic.

• The personal care industry for men is estimated to hit $166 billion by 2022.

• Skincare accounts for 42% of the worldwide cosmetic industry.

• 58% of American women buy organic or natural skincare products.

• The global hair care market was worth $12,603.9 million in 2021.

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magazine

7000 W 7th St Texarkana, TX, 75501

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Michael Stewart Owner

903-832-0303 stmobileaudio.com

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

3117 KENNEDY LANE • TEXARKANA, TX 75503 903.793.1570 • GRACYNELIZABETHBRIDE.COM

THANK YOU

Thank You

FOR VOTING US FOR BEST

for voting me

ELECTRONIC REPAIR SERVICE!

in Texarkana!

Specializing in:

Best Surgeon Smaller Incision. Less Pain. Faster Recovery.

Phone, iPad, Tablet Battery Replacement

right here at home!

Broken Screens Camera Problems

Board certified General Surgeon

Charger Ports & More!

Beth Peterson, MD FACS

5002 Cowhorn Creek Rd | Texarkana, TX 75503

903.614.3007

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

WE FIX BACK GLASS TOO!

903.949.6863 4116 GIBSON LANE WWW.PHONEPROSTXK.COM 045

Home Health / Care

Liquor Store

WINNER: The Sitters RUNNER UP: Heritage Home Health

WINNER: Chubby Cheeks Liquor RUNNER UP: Villa Liquor Store

Home Improvement

Locally Made Products

Investment Advisor

Manufacturer

WINNER: Tony Langford Roofing RUNNER UP: Carter Adams Flooring

WINNER: Dustin Stringer / Stringer Wealth Management RUNNER UP: William Huddleston / Magnass Financial Group

Jeweler

WINNER: Micah’s Jewelers RUNNER UP: Crocker’s Jewelers

WINNER: Rowe Casa Organics RUNNER UP: FizzBizz Bath Bombs

WINNER: Domtar Ind. RUNNER UP: Cooper Tire

Microdermabrasion

WINNER: Eternal Beauty Medical Spa RUNNER UP: Beauty & Wellness Center

Nail Salon

CHOIC

ALT

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WINNER: Campell & Co. / Jillian Hildebrand RUNNER UP: Elysium Natural Spa

2022

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

DID YOU KNOW?

• 56% of jewelry buyers are women, compared to 44% of men.

• White gold is the first choice of 35% of women who buy jewelry for themselves.

• The most expensive diamond necklace is worth $55 million.

• 38% of surveyed jewelry companies reported an increase in sales of custom-made jewelry in 2020.

• Russia owns the biggest diamond reserves in the world.

• 86% of engagement rings have diamonds as the center gem. However, the new trend in engagement rings includes alternative gemstones like sapphires, shield-cut diamonds, moissanite, and tourmaline.

It's the kind of place you look for when you go out of town • Great outdoor Dining • Voted best seafood in town • amazing steaks • Live Music • Locally Owned

• Texarkana’s best kept secret for over 25 years!

Thank you for voting us

Full Service BAr Wednesday - Friday 5:00pm to 10:00pm

the Best Steak in Town!

Saturday 3:00pm to 10:00pm

Check us out on

(870) 773-4887 6701 E Broad St Texarkana, AR 71854 A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

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New Local Business

Salon

WINNER: El Frio RUNNER UP: Redwoods Bar and Grill

WINNER: The Fringe Salon RUNNER UP: The Beauty Barr

Pawn Shop

Small Engine Service and Repair

Pet Groomer

Social Media Presence

WINNER: Tri-State Pawn & Jewelry RUNNER UP: Paul's Pawn & Gun

WINNER: Small Engine Specialist of Texarkana RUNNER UP: Premier Outdoor Equipment

WINNER: Paw Paw Patch RUNNER UP: FurCutz

WINNER: Texarkana Texas Police Department RUNNER UP: TXK Game Day

Retirement/ Assisted Living

Spa

WINNER: Cornerstone Retirement Living RUNNER UP: The Retreat at Kenwood

1620 North Kings Highway // Nash, TX 75569 903.223.0011 // Fax 903.223.0589 Dustin.Stringer@RaymondJames.com www.stringerwealthmanagement.net

ADERS

O IC E A

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in Texarkana!

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Thank you for voting me as ALT Magazine’s Best

Paw Paw RE

STRINGER WEALTH MANAGEMENT

WINNER: Eternal Beauty Medical Spa RUNNER UP: Beauty & Wellness Center

ALT

2022

Thank You, for voting us for Best Groomer in Texarkana!

PROFESSIONAL DOG GROOMING & BOARDING • NO TRANQUILIZERS USED

903.831.PETS (7387) 5501 HAWK LANE • TEXARKANA, TX

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Tattoo Artist

WINNER: Jason Standridge RUNNER UP: Jess Dillard

Urgent Care

WINNER: HealthCARE Express RUNNER UP: The Knighten Center

Veterinarian Care Pet Clinic WINNER: Westridge Animal Hospital RUNNER UP: Wisdom Animal Clinic

Women’s Clothing

WINNER: Gayle’s & Abby Gayles RUNNER UP: The Rancher’s Wife Boutique

COMMUNITY Company To Work For

WINNER: CHRISTUS St. Michael’s Health System RUNNER UP: Texarkana Independent School District

Elected Offical WINNER: Todd Fore RUNNER UP: Bob Bruggeman

WEDDINGS Wedding Attire

WINNER: Gracyn Elizabeth Bride RUNNER UP: Squires

Call the Wing Experts!

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

THANK YOU Thank you for voting us Bakery & Desserts!

S

CHOICE

ALT magazine

Graham Slam Bakery @grahamslambakery A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

THE BEST WINGS & FRIES IN TEXARKANA TEXARKANA!!

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R E A DE R

Best

FOR VOTING US

2022

112 Pine Street Texarkana, AR 71854 (870)330-9132

903.255.0090 | 2700 Richmond Road | Suite 14A1 903.792.WING(9464) | Corner of N. State Line and Texas Blvd 051

DID YOU KNOW?

• It is projected that people in the USA will spend close to $109.6 billion on their pets in 2022.

• The global pet market worth is $179.4 billion.

• In 2021, it was reported that 48% of people who give their pets CBD oil offer it as edible treats.

• By 2025, the pet grooming industry is projected to grow to $14.5 billion.

•Americans spent $490 million on Halloween costumes for their pets.

•More than 63 million households in the United States have a dog.

•Dog obesity affects more than 40% of dogs over four years old.

• The Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog breed in the United States.

• More than 42 million homes in the United States have at least one cat.

• The Ragdoll is the most popular cat breed in the United States.

• There are more than 5.7 million pet birds in the United States.

• Many pet birds can live more than 40 years.

• The average number of pets per household is 1.8.

Thank you Texarkana,

Over 20 years experience in Metal, Composition, and Flat Commercal Roofs.

We offer discounts to senior citizens and churches. 5 year workmanship warranty.

for Voting us,

BEST HOME IMPROVEMENT!

FREE ESTIMATES! #LangfordDidItAgain #ChangingHomesOneShingleAtATime

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tony.langford.roofing1@gmail.com A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

903.614.3003

5002 Cowhorn Creek Road Texarkana, Texas 75503

BEST Liquor Store

S

CHOICE

ALT

AR DS AW

for voting us

R E A DE R

Thank You,

2022

for the last SEVEN years!

870.772.0613 • 820 Realtor Road • Texarkana, AR A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

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Wedding Cake

Wedding Indoor Venue

Wedding Caterer

Wedding Outdoor Venue

WINNER: Julie’s Deli & Market RUNNER UP: Graham Slam Bakery

WINNER: Silvermoon on Broad RUNNER UP: Four Fifteen Estates

WINNER: Julie's Deli & Market RUNNER UP: Silver Spoon

WINNER: Garrison Garden RUNNER UP: Blessing Tree Farms & Best Day Ever

Wedding DJ

Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Venue

WINNER: Fabienne Thrash RUNNER UP: Jam Master D

WINNER: Crossties Event Center RUNNER UP: Zapata's Mexican Grill

Wedding Florist WINNER: Ruth’s Flowers RUNNER UP: Persnickety Too

DID YOU KNOW?

Contactless ordering and delivery for restaurants is here to stay. From fine dining to fast food, contactless tech and food delivery may continue to be key investments in 2022 as restaurants look for ways to improve the customer experience while meeting evolving expectations.

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WINE & DINE

Hamburger

WINNER: The Dugout RUNNER UP: Reggie’s Burgers, Dogs & Fries

BBQ

WINNER: Naamans Championship BBQ RUNNER UP: Silver Star Smokehouse

Pizza

WINNER: Gusano's Chicago Style Pizzeria RUNNER UP: Underground Pizza

Desserts

WINNER: Graham Slam Bakery RUNNER UP: Julie’s Deli & Market

Steak

WINNER: Pop's Place RUNNER UP: Naaman's Championship BBQ

Fries

WINNER: Wingstop RUNNER UP: Reggie's Burger, Dogs, & Fries

Wine List

WINNER: Verona Italian Restaurant RUNNER UP: Twisted Fork

Ruth’s Flowers S

CHOICE

ALT

AR DS AW

R E A DE R

For all of life’s occasions

2022

magazine

Thank you for Voting us for Best Florist & Wedding Florist in Texarkana.

903.793.6711 | www.ruthsflowers.net 3501 Texas Blvd | Texarkana, TX 75503 A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

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Thank you for voting me as ALT Magazine’s

Best Optometrist

in Texarkana for the fifth year!

theeyeguysoftxk.com

4109 Moores Lane 4504 Texas Blvd Texarkana, TX 75503 Texarkana, TX 75503 (903) 329-5051 (903) 792-3705

Kelli Ashbrook Sitters come to you: in-home, hospital or retirement facility setting.

Sitter Services Include: Bathing, dressing, grooming, feeding, exercising, toileting, positioning, assisting with self-administered medications, routine hair and skin care and transfer or ambulation.

3410 Moores Lane | Texarkana, TX 75503 (903)-223-8100 | kelli@kelliashbrook.com

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A minimum of 4 hours is required!

OI C E A CH

AR D W

Best Insurance Agent

ADE R S

510 N Highway 59 | Atlanta, TX 75551 (903)-796-8100

ALT

2022

Celebrating 16 Years in Business

Thank you for voting us

BEST HOME HEALTH/CARE Owners, Karen Schmidt & Katheryn Schmidt

4150 McKnight Road | Texarkana, TX 75503 903.277.2191 056

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Wings

WINNER: Zapata's Mexican Grill RUNNER UP: Loca Luna Mexican Restaurant

Brunch

Locally Owned Restaurant

Date Night Restaurant

Lunch Spot

WINNER: Verona Italian Restaurant RUNNER UP: Ironwood Grill

WINNER: Benchmark American Brasserie RUNNER UP: Redbone Magic Brewery

WINNER: Verona Italian Restaurant RUNNER UP: Benchmark American Brasserie

WINNER: Ironwood Grill RUNNER UP: Fuzzy's Taco

Gourmet Dinner

Outdoor Dining

WINNER: Benchmark American Brasserie RUNNER UP: Twisted Fork

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Happy Hour

WINNER: WingStop RUNNER UP: Hopkin's IceHouse Downtown

WINNER: Naaman's BBQ RUNNER UP: Pop's Place

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Triva Bar Night

WINNER: Redbone Magic Brewery RUNNER UP: Pop's Place

WINNER: Nash Electric / Chris Harris RUNNER UP: Artex Electric

Caterer

Insurance Agent

WINNER: Julie’s Deli & Market RUNNER UP: Jeff Loving

WINNER: Kelli Ashbrook / State Farm RUNNER UP: Brian Purtle / Allstate

Chef

Make - Up Artist

WINNER: Jennifer Tanner / Julie’s Deli & Market RUNNER UP: Becky Williams / Benchmark American Brasserie

PEOPLE Artist

WINNER: Joseph Raymond RUNNER UP: Jess Weiner

Cosmetic Surgeon

WINNER: David Whitten / Beauty and Wellness Center RUNNER UP: Rachael Keilin / Precision Surgery Center

Decorator / Designer WINNER: Kyle Barrett RUNNER UP: Alicia Woodle

Dentist

WINNER: Chris Ferguson / Chris Ferguson Family Dentistry RUNNER UP: Jay Castle / Castle Dentistry

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Electrician

WINNER: Hailey Cherry RUNNER UP: Courtney Foster

Massage Therapist

WINNER: Sheena Richardson / The Spa Girls RUNNER UP: Reeves Ingram

OB-GYN

WINNER: Jennifer Thompson / Collom & Carney Clinic RUNNER UP: Surdeer Jayaprabu / The Woman's Specialists

Optometrist

WINNER: Eric McCall / The Eye Guys RUNNER UP: Mark Allen / ArkLaTex Eyes

Pediatrician

WINNER: Cindy Porter / Collom & Carney Clinic RUNNER UP: Rachel King / King Medical Clinic

Realtor

WINNER: Tracy Spradlin / Impact Realty Group RUNNER UP: Amber Gideon Stewart / Coldwell Banker Elite, Realtors A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

Real Estate - Commercial WINNER: Impact Realty RUNNER UP: Griffin Realtors

Real Estate - Property Management

WINNER: Impact Realty Property Management RUNNER UP: Re/MAX Preferred Realty

Surgeon

WINNER: Beth Peterson / Collom & Carney Clinc RUNNER UP: James DeCaprio / Collom & Carney Clinc

DID YOU KNOW?

In 2020, dentistry was a $15.57 billion industry, and it is predicted to double by 2027 to a staggering $30.59 billion. That means there is a huge potential for growth at the practice level. The biggest drivers of growth are increased demand for Cosmetic surgery.

Thank You, for voting me Best Realtor in Texarkana

TRACY SPRADLIN

Broker

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DID YOU KNOW?

• More than 40% of active Realtors in the United States are located in California, Florida, Texas, and Arizona.

• More than 65% of active Realtors are women.

• The median age of all Realtors in the United States is 52.

• 45% of Realtors have completed a bachelor’s or graduate degree.

• 20% of Realtors have had their license for a year or less.

• 82% of licensed Realtors own their primary residence.

•37% of licensed Realtors own at least one secondary property.

• The median experience level of licensed professionals in the real estate industry is five years.

• 92% of homes sold in the U.S.in 2021 were sold using an agent or a broker.

• The average listing price for a home in the United States has risen more than 32% since March 2020 to $374,900 as of June 2021.

• The median available days on market for a home in the United States in 2021 was less than 10.

• The typical FSBO home sold for 17% less than a home listed with a Realtor.

• The typical home seller in the United States is 45 years old.

• The typical home seller has owned their home for eight years.

• The typical size of a U.S. home sold in the last year was 1,900 square feet.

• The typical home seller bought their home using a mortgage.

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Whether you’re staying home or going out for a fun dinner, here are 14 fun questions and trivia to share with your Valentine on Valentine’s Day this year! Have fun with these!

1. What Activity Increases A Person’s Pulse To At Least 110 Bpm?

Kisses. The normal bpm is 60 to 70, so kissing definitely disrupts our heartbeats.

2. In What Year Did Hallmark Launch Its First Valentine’s Day Product?

1916. According to their website, Hallmark offered to make Valentine’s Day cards in 1913, but it wasn’t until 1916 that they began producing them.

3. Who Is The Symbol Of Valentines?

Cupid. From the Latin word Cupido which means passionate desire, Cupid is the god of desire, erotic love, attraction, and affection.

4. Who Is The Mother Of The American Valentine?

Esther Howland. Esther Howland is a native of Massachusetts. She popularized the greeting cards for Valentine’s Day, which is why most of her cards are a collector’s item nowadays.

5. What Is The Record-Breaking Kissing Event Called That Happened In The Philippines?

Lovapalooza. The event was a bid to claim the Guinness World Record for the Most Number of Simultaneously Kissing Couples, which first happened in 2014.

6. What Type Of Movie Is The 2001 Film “Valentine”?

Horror. Valentine’s cast includes Denise Richards,

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David Boreanaz, Marley Shelton, Jessica Capshaw, and Katherine Heigl.

7. What Website Was Born On Valentine’s Day?

Youtube.com. The popular video streaming website was founded on February 14, 2005.

8. How Many U.S. Towns Are Named Valentine?

Four. They’re located in Arizona, Nebraska, Texas, and Virginia.

9. In Which Of Shakespeare’s Plays Does He Refer To Valentine’s Day? Hamlet. Hamlet reads:

Tomorrow is Saint Valentine’s day, All in the morning betime, And I a maid at your window, To be your Valentine.

Then up he rose, and donn’d his clothes, And dupp’d the chamber-door; Let in the maid, that out a maid Never departed more.

10. During The Victorian Era, What Were Sent To Suitors They Don’t Like?

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Vinegar Valentines. Vinegar Valentines are cards specially made to be sent anonymously to persons you dislike. They contain caricature and insulting poems.

11. What Fruit Is Also Known As The “Love Apple”?

Tomato. It is so-called because it is believed that tomatoes have aphrodisiac properties.

12. Where Was The Oldest Surviving Love Poem Written On?

Clay Tablet. The Istanbul #2461 is the oldest surviving love poem discovered in Southern Iraq during the late 19th century.

13. The Farmers Almanac Says “If A Woman Sees A Robin On Valentines Day She Will Marry What?”

Sailor. If a woman sees a goldfinch instead, she’ll marry a rich man.

14. When Was February 14th Declared Saint Valentine’s Day?

1537. King Henry VII of England officially declared February 14th as St Valentine’s Day in 1537.

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STRINGER WEALTH MANAGEMENT RAYMOND JAMES FINANCIAL STRINGERWEALTHMANAGEMENT.NET

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Did You Know 529s Are Powerful Estate Planning Tools?

FAMILY AND LIFESTYLE

Most of us associate 529 accounts as college savings vehicles. They’re flexible, allowing you to transfer assets to anyone, including yourself, for the express purpose of furthering the education of your beneficiary. But did

you know that a 529 can be a powerful estate planning tool, too?

Modern estate planning Not everyone is in a position to set aside money for the next generation without jeopardizing their own goals, but if you’re fortunate enough to do so, it’s worth looking into your options.

Specialized savings accounts, informally referred to as 529s, could be at the top of your list. They have quite a few advantages for the beneficiaries – but there are benefits for the donors, too, given the high maximum contribution limits and tax advantages.

The special tax rules that govern these accounts allows you to pare down your taxable estate, potentially minimizing future federal gift and estate taxes. Right now, the lifetime exclusion is $12.06 million per

person, so most of us don’t have to worry about our estates exceeding that limit. But that new threshold is due to revert back to just over $5 million per person by 2025.

The framework Under the rules that uniquely govern 529s, you can make a lump-sum contribution to a 529 plan up to five times the annual limit of $16,000. That means you can gift $80,000 per recipient ($160,000 for married couples), as long as you denote your five-year gift on your federal tax return and do not make any more gifts to the same recipient during that five-year period. However, you can elect to give another lump sum after those five years are up. In the meantime, your investments have the luxury of time to compound and potentially grow.

So if you’re following along, that $160,000 gift per beneficiary won’t incur gift tax as long as you and your spouse follow the rules. You’ll also whittle your taxable estate by that same amount, potentially reducing future estate tax liabilities. That’s because contributions to 529s are considered a completed gift from the donor to the beneficiary.

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Other benefits Many people worry that gifting large chunks of money to a 529 means they’ll irrevocably give up control of those assets. However, 529s allow you quite a bit of control, especially if you title the account in your name. At any point, you can get your money back. Of course, that means it becomes part of your taxable estate again subject to your nominal federal tax rate, and you’ll have to pay an additional 10% penalty on the earnings portion of the withdrawal if you don’t use the money for your designated beneficiary’s qualified education expenses.

If your chosen beneficiary receives a scholarship or financial aid, they may not need some or all of the money you’ve stashed away in a 529. So you’ve got options here, too.

• You can earmark the money for other types of education, like graduate school.

• You can change the beneficiary to another member of the family (ideally in the same generation), as many times as you like, since most 529s have no time limits. This option is particularly helpful if your original beneficiary chooses not to go to college at all.

• You can take the money and pay the taxes on any gains. Normally, you’d expect to pay a penalty on the earnings, too. But that’s not the case for scholarships. The penalty is waived on amounts equal to the scholarship as long as they’re withdrawn the same year the scholarship is received, effectively turning your tax-free 529 into a tax-deferred investment. Of course, you can always use the funds to pay for other qualified education expenses, like room and board, books and supplies, too.

nuances of different investment strategies and vehicles before making a years-long commitment.

Sources: Mercer; Broadridge/Forefield Earnings in 529 plans are not subject to federal tax and in most cases state tax, as long as you use withdrawals for eligible college expenses, such as tuition and room

and board. However, if you withdraw money from a 529 plan and do not use it on an eligible higher education expense, you generally will be subject to income tax and an

additional 10% federal tax penalty on earnings. As with other investments, there are generally fees and expenses associated with participation in a 529 plan. There is also a risk that these plans may lose money or not perform well enough to cover college costs as anticipated. Most states offer their own 529 programs, which may provide advantages and benefits exclusively for their residents. An investor should consider,

before investing, whether the investor’s or designated beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other benefits that are only available for investments in such state’s

qualified tuition program. Such benefits include financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors. The tax implications can vary significantly from state to state.

Please note, changes in tax laws may occur at any time and could have a substantial impact upon each person's situation. You should contact your tax advisor concerning your particular situation. Every investor’s situation is unique and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance and time horizon before making any investment.

Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected.

Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. 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.

FEEL HAPPIER. LIVE HEALTHIER.

Plus, many plans offer you several investment choices, including diversified portfolios allocated among stocks, bonds, mutual funds, CDs and money market instruments, as well as age-based portfolios that are more growth-oriented for younger beneficiaries and less aggressive for those nearing college age.

Bottom line Saving for college takes discipline, as does estate planning. Talk to your professional advisor about the A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

AMAZING LOCATIONS FOR EVERYONE!

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Suzie TK Snippets By: Suzie Tyler

What Is Love?

When I was twelve years old, my grandmother and I visited her sisters Georgia and Susie in Louisiana. As my cousin Mildred and I sat discussing boys, they gave us their dating advice. Aunt Susie said they never would let a guy court them unless he had a goodlooking horse and buggy. We tried not to laugh because she was serious.

I had never heard the word courting before, and being the curious one, I asked what that meant.

Aunt Susie said it was being involved with someone romantically for the purpose of marriage. She further explained, “A boy doesn’t treat a girl he wants to court for marriage like he does someone he only wants to date. He makes her feel special with worshipful devoted love and a desire to protect her!”

Since then, I’ve learned there are two kinds of love, Surface Love and Unconditional Love!

Surface Love is a relationship without commitment, with no strings attached. This person is selfseeking, will only love as long as things go their way, and will leave at the drop of a hat.

Unconditional Love is a relationship of devotion and compassion, with a yearning to protect someone you love. It is a lifetime commitment with a person who loves you more than they love themselves.

Everyone wants to feel unique and adored. True love allows that to happen. This type of love is the same for each individual, but they experience it differently. If you have found someone who loves you with that passion, hug them a little tighter, and kiss them a little longer. February 14 is Valentine’s day and a time to show love to your sweetheart, which is an endearing term to call someone you care for deeply.

If you are still single, look for a godly person and pray about your choice! Recognize the real thing and when you find true love, make sure it is reciprocated. This Valentine’s Day, I want to encourage you to trust God to bring that special sweetheart into your life. You don’t have to settle for second best, or those dreams of love may become a nightmare! If you have not found them yet, use this day to love YOU. Have a happy day of love!

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Fish Tales with Mike Brower Short on Stuff With all the looming shortages coming down the pike and all the ships backed up on the West coast, it might be time to stock up a little on some tackle if it comes from China or Japan. Heck, even stuff made here may be in short supply soon.

Think of all those Lucky Craft crank baits sitting on a ship parked 50 miles out in the ocean with nothing to do and you can bet that deckhand from Nepal doesn’t know how to fish that crank bait or how to throw a swimbait. Even those jigs made across town by your buddy down the street may not be available or some color skirts may be gone due to a manpower shortage and no way to make them.

We all have more tackle than our wives know about, so here is something to think about. Go digging through your boxes in the garage and find some stuff you haven’t fished with in, say, 5+ years and start fishing that for a while. The fish liked it once and since it’s not popular anymore, they have forgotten about them. Bet you got some good colors too, like camouflage, fire and ice, motor oil and the ever popular tequila sunrise. The old baits may be your new “go to” baits and if you keep your mouth shut you could catch a world of fish.

So, how long has it been since you threw a chicken foot worm? Well, that’s too long.

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february events 1st • Wooden Sign Painting Looking for a fun night out with your girlfriends? Come paint a wooden door hanger to make your front door a statement. No experience needed for this class! Each student will receive step-by-step instructions with an experienced local artist. Join Texarkana College on February 1st from 6-8:30pm.

Cost is $39 and tickets can be purchased on their website.

5th • Let’s Talk About Kids Let’s Talk About Kids is being conducted to provide information to families and children who are affected by divorce. The seminar is open to all persons concerned with family separation. Attendance is mandated for divorcing parents by the Bowie County District Courts. **Please do not bring your children to class** Seminar Goals include discussion of expected behavioral changes in children, exploration of how losses connected to divorce affect families and children, review of alternatives to “Children in the Middle,” and presentation tools and solutions. The event is held at Texarkana College on Saturday, February 5th, from 9am-1pm. Tickets are $55/each and can be purchased through their website.

18th • Ark-La-Tex Regenerative Agriculture Conference Join hundreds of people from throughout the Ark-La-Tex to learn more about the ideas and practices that make up sustainable agriculture. The conference is held February 18-19th at the Texarkana Convention Center located at 2910 South Cowhorn Creek Loop, Texarkana, Texas. Ticket prices start at $50 and can be purchased through EventBrite.

19-20th • Kids Run the Line TOO / Run the Line Half Marathon The Kids Run the Line TOO is a running race in Texarkana, Texas, consisting of a Kids Run/Fun Run on February 19th. The Run the Line Half Marathon is a 13.1 mile single-loop race that goes through the twin cities of Texarkana, AR, and Texarkana, TX, on February 20th. The race starts in downtown Texarkana, TX, and finishes in Texarkana, AR. The course includes two park asphalt trails and residential neighborhoods on city streets. The finish line is downtown at 3rd and Wood Streets in front of the Hopkins Ice House about 4 blocks from the start. A portion of the course is on the Texas/Arkansas state line. The race includes chip timing and 2-person and 4-person relay teams.

Enjoy post-race celebration at the finish line with sponsored hamburgers, chicken, veggie burgers, and beverages. Sponsored food and beverages are included for all race runners and walkers. More information can be found at txkruntheline.org.

26th • Cirque Zuma Zuma Experience the ultimate African Circus! The cradle of all cultures, the ultimate source for all music, dance and ritual for all humanity. The thought of this rich continent brings in mind at once mysticism, magic and excitement. The African Acrobats International, Inc. has something new to bring to the American Audiences: the allure of the African Circus. Tickets: $49, $41, $33, Student tickets: $22 plus fees; located in upper balcony. Purcahse yours today at the Perot Theatre.

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Local Rescues

FOSTERS NEEDED!

CONTACT LOCAL RESCUES TO FIND OUT MORE INFORMATION! BOXER RESCUE OF TEXARKANA Facebook.com/ BoxerRescueOfTexarkana

LENNOX

Passion For Pooches

PEEPEE

Passion For Pooches

MUTTLEY CREW GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUE Facebook.com/ MuttleyCrewRescue PASSION FOR POOCHES (mostly small dogs) Facebook.com/passionforpooches TEXARKANA ANIMAL LEAGUE Facebook.com/ TexarkanaAnimalLeague TEXARKANA HUMANE SOCIETY TexarkanaHumaneSociety.org Facebook.com/ TexarkanaHumaneSocietyInc

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1344 CR 3552 QUEEN CITY TX Bill Spradlin Realtor 903-748-3186

Tracy Spradlin Broker 903-748-2477

Jan Williams Realtor 903-277-5771

Country Retreat located in Cass County. Fabulous custom built home features two bedrooms, two baths, open floor concept, large kitchen with island and lots of cabinet space, beautiful fireplace accents the family room, with wood ceilings, and enclosed sunroom. Master suite with relaxing master bath, steam walk in shower, jetted tub, his/her vanities, huge walk-in closet. 24x24 two car carport. Amazing outdoor space with kitchen area, great for entertaining family and friends.

Detached guest house or mother-in-law suite with bathroom and kitchenette. Workshop with front overhang included is 24 x 36, side overhang is 18 x 48 total dimensions 52 x 48. If you are looking for a get-a-way or hunting retreat location, this place is perfect.

Heavily wooded with lots of wildlife, this place is just amazing!

Pam Hollingsworth Realtor 903-277-1222

John Trubia Realtor 817-701-8402 Now Servicing the Dallas Fort Worth Area!

Ronnie Olson Realtor 903-280-6831

Amber Howeth Administrative Assistant 903-223-0710

Brenda Elrod Property Manager 903-559-1511

Stephanie Barthel Property Manager 903-559-1511 A LT M a g a z i n e | F e b r u a r y 2 0 2 2

1356 N. Kings Hwy. | Nash, TX 75569 | 903.223.0710 billsprad@aol.com | spradlintd@aol.com www.ImpactRealtyOnline.com

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