FSLM Best of Texarkana 2023

B E S T O F T E X A R K A N A™ 2 0 2 3 R E A D E R S ’ C H O I C E A W A R D S

Nineteen years have passed since The Best of Texarkana™ idea was pitched to me from a very big thinker on staff who was more visionary than I. My fear was to publish something that stated a particular business or person was the best in Texarkana would be more negative (for those not winning) than positive.

Four States Living Magazine is all about positive! Personally, I like riding the fence, being Switzerland, not saying anything that would disappoint anybody. But The Best of Texarkana™ has been different. I honestly don’t have a say in anything other than what categories we will present to the voters. And my staff can’t vote. And we only accept one vote per device and have people who monitor that voting very closely (thank goodness for smart technology).

Some businesses promote this annual contest through their social media pages, postcard mailers, and even calling to ask customers to vote. Others don’t get as involved and still win. It has become bigger than I would have ever imagined (yes, I was a doubter in the beginning). People covet their nominations and love the ability to use The Best of Texarkana™ seal in their advertising for the next year.

I appreciate the new things Texarkana has to offer, and I love to see those older businesses be recognized for their consistent growth and dedication to quality.

We have lots of BESTS to be proud of in Texarkana. The results which follow do not represent my personal favorites (necessarily) nor my staff’s. We stay Switzerland in awarding the winners; however, we do enjoy sharing our staff favorites for sheer fun. Now, drumroll please, I am honored to present the voters’ choices for 2023.

The Best of Texarkana™ , a special edition of Four States Living Magazine, is an authoritative guide to all that’s great in Texarkana, U.S.A. The winners, chosen by the readers’ responses to ballots on fourstatesliving.com, have earned the trust and respect of their own customers and are all very worthy of displaying the Best of Texarkana™ seal for an entire year. Congratulations to the nominees and winners from all of the staff at Four States Living Magazine.

Contents 9

CATEGORY OF THE YEAR

13

LOCALLY-OWNED FOOD & DRINK

21

PEOPLE & PRODUCTS

41

COMMUNITY

62

RIDICULOUS RESPONSES

PU B LISH ER

DR. ROBIN ROGERS

EDITOR

SUZY TURNER

GRAPHIC DESIGN ER SHANE DARBY

ACCOU NT EXECUTIVE VICTORIA HERMAN

* Four States Living Magazine’s Best of Texarkana™ nominees and winners are solely chosen by area readers. Employees and family members of Four States Living Magazine are not eligible to vote. Only one vote per e-mail address was counted.

This year, over 9,000 votes were cast. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees!

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CATEGORY OF THE YEAR

Best Real Estate Agent

Lauren Callaway 903-280-8360 | lcsellstxk.com

Helping her clients achieve their residential and commercial dreams is Lauren Callaway’s goal. As a licensed REALTOR® for RE/MAX® Preferred, she focuses on helping sellers get their properties ready to sell for top dollar and helps buyers find homes that they can be proud to own. A native of Texarkana, Texas, Lauren also enjoys helping boost her hometown’s economy by assisting businesses to find the perfect location to suit their needs.

As the owner and designer of PH Properties and Design, Lauren uses her creativity to help her clients reach all of their personal, residential, and commercial goals.

CATEGORY OF THE YEAR FINALISTS Ashley Goodman Amber Stewart 903-243-6008 | goodmangrouprealty.com 903-277-9930 | coldwellbanker.com The owner of Goodman Realty Group, Ashley Goodman combines business, marketing, and sales to create an unparalleled real estate experience. Honest and reliable, Ashley works hard to make every real estate transaction as comfortable as possible, without any unnecessary stress for her clients. Since she is a native Texarkanian, Ashley knows this area and its surrounding cities inside and out and is always proud to show and list property in these areas.

Amber Gideon Stewart is committed to helping people buy or sell their homes. As part of the Coldwell Banker elite, REALTORS® team, Amber will help homeowners reach their real estate goals while remaining honest, trustworthy, and knowledgeable in this market. If you are looking for a REALTOR® who delivers results, Amber will help you through the buying or selling process.

Sydney Wicks 903-701-7221 | bhgre.com

Darla Wilf 225-921-6922 | realtysoldbydarla.com

A Texarkana native, Sydney Wicks has the knowledge needed to be a successful REALTOR® in the Texarkana area. As a real estate agent with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Infinity, Sydney puts her knowledge, skill and hard work ethic to work for her clients while building relationships with people in the community. “I am a person who loves to know everyone’s life story, so I genuinely look forward to being a part of someone’s story in helping them find a home,” she states.

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Darla Wilf’s many years of real estate experience combined with her extensive knowledge of the Texarkana area make her a popular real estate agent with those who are looking to sell or buy a home.

As a real estate agent with TROVA Real Estate Services, LLC, Darla’s marketing strategies and remarkable reputation put her on the forefront of the real estate market. By communicating effectively, building relationships with people, and providing excellent customer service, Darla continues to make a positive impact on the lives of buyers and sellers who are looking for the home of their dreams.

Best Pizza

LOST PIZZA CO. 903-716-9568 | lostpizza.com

New to Texarkana in the last year, Lost Pizza has become the voters’ favorite place to dine in, eat on the patio, or grab a pie to go.

Wondering what the secret is? Owners say it’s the dough – made fresh from scratch every single day using only the best ingredients.

And, they also brag on the sauces – made fresh daily using secret recipes. The veggies – they use only the freshest produce available and it’s all sliced fresh every morning. They only serve the finest quality meat toppings, and the cheese – it’s a custom blend of all-natural house cheese and the highest quality available. It’s aged perfectly without the use of preservatives or additives. Maybe that’s why it tastes so good the voters chose it as #1.

FINALISTS: Gusano’s Chicago-Style Pizzeria Joe’s Pizza & Pasta Pizza on Main Underground Pizza Company

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Best Place For Lunch IRONWOOD GRILL 903-223-4644 | ironwoodgrill.com

Casual and comfortable, Ironwood Grill opened for business in the fall of 2005. With a beautiful blend of iron and wood showcased throughout the restaurant, Ironwood provides a casual, chic dining experience. From delicious appetizers and carefully concocted cocktails, to hand tossed sandwiches to steaks to chicken and waffles, Ironwood’s menu accommodates a wide range of culinary requests. Whether a day date with your mom, or a business lunch, Ironwood Grill is the place that voters say is best for your lunch hour!

FINALISTS: Hopkins Icehouse Julie’s Deli & Market Loca Luna Mexican Grill Texas Chuck Wagon

Best Cocktail

TWISTED FORK 430-200-2775 | twistedforktxk.com Since the dining area is separate from the bar area in Twisted Fork, perhaps a rowdier crowd can gather in the bar to listen to great live music, watch some of the food preparation, while snacking on appetizers, pizzas, and lobster tacos while tasting the most extensive and perfectly prepared cocktail from the menu that is bound to get you a little “twisted.”

FINALISTS: Benchmark American Brasserie Ironwood Grill Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery Zapata Mexican Grill & Cantina

B E S T O F T E X A R K A N A™ 2 0 2 3 | four states living magazine

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Best BBQ

NAAMAN’S 903-826-2827 | naamansbbq.com

Naa man’s Cha mpionship BBQ of fers delectable brisket, steaks, ribs, pulled pork, sausage, and chicken. Pair your meat with one of Naaman’s signature homemade sides and your taste buds will thank you! Owner Darby Neaves’s motto is “if we serve it, we made it!” Set in a rustic building with great antiques and mounted animals throughout, a Naaman’s experience will leave you with a satisfying BBQ meal and lots to discuss. If you are there on a weekend, you will likely see Darby running the kitchen, along with his right hand son, Naaman, for whom the restaurant is named (also an award winning pitmaster like his dad). Try them out, and see for yourself!

FINALISTS: Big Gilley’s Smokehouse Big Jake’s Bar-B-Que Randy’s Smokehouse BBQ Silver Star Smokehouse

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Best Burger

TLC BURGERS & FRIES 870-773-9316 | facebook.com/TLCBurgers

A downtown Texarkana landmark, known for its wonderful burgers and fries, TLC serves up the juiciest hamburgers, spiciest, fresh cut fries (don’t forget the sand on top), and delectable pies. A popular and always busy lunch spot, the atmosphere is relaxed and fun! On your way out the door, check out the Dr. Pepper mural on the side of their building or be photographed beside the depiction of Texarkana native Corrinne Griffith, one of the first silent film actresses to ever receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

FINALISTS: The Dugout Flying Burger & Seafood Old Tyme Burger Shoppe Reggie’s Burgers, Dogs & Fries

Best Seafood

POP’S PLACE 870-773-4887 | facebook.com/pops.place.1 On Highway 67 in Texarkana, Arkansas, is a local restaurant that receives quite the rave. From the inviting atmosphere to the attention to details, Pop’s Place serves delicious seafood (as well as other items). Try the smoked gouda grits smothered in a creamy spinach portobello sauce with shrimp or the crawfish enchiladas.

If you are looking for great seafood, Pop’s Place is worth a very short drive for the best!

FINALISTS: Flying Burger & Seafood The Juicy Seafood The Mighty Crab Pier 27 Seafood & Steak B E S T O F T E X A R K A N A™ 2 0 2 3 | four states living magazine

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Best Mexican

LOCA LUNA MEXICAN GRILL 903-306-0531 localunamexicangrill.com

Loca Luna offers a vast array of delicious Mexican cuisine.

Since opening their first restaurant on Moores Lane, they have opened several other sister restaurants, also Mexican in nature, in Texarkana. A popular eating establishment, Loca Luna serves tacos, burritos, fajitas, and enchiladas with the finest ingredients.

Don’t forget to add a margarita to your order, as the servers highly recommend them!

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FINALISTS: Amigo Juan Mexican Café On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina TaMolly’s Mexican Restaurant Zapata Mexican Grill & Cantina

Best Place To Take An Out-Of-Town Guest IRONWOOD GRILL 903-223-4644 | ironwoodgrill.com

If you want to impress someone, the best place to take an out of town guest is to Ironwood Grill. With fabulous cocktails and a menu with something for everyone, your party can sit and enjoy your meal on a lovely patio area or in the dining room. Friendly servers will have your out-of-towners looking into more to do in Texarkana, so they can eat at Ironwood again!

FINALISTS: Benchmark American Brasserie Pop’s Place Redbone Magic Brewing Co. Zapata Mexican Grill & Cantina

Best Steak

TEXAS ROADHOUSE 903-223-8444 | texasroadhouse.com

Texas Roadhouse boasts in its advertisements that they have the best ribs, but our voters also decided that the best steaks in Texarkana come from Texas Roadhouse. Aged to perfection, and cooked to order, the steaks at Texas Roadhouse make dinner a good ol cowboy’s dream. Whatever you choose, filets, ribeyes, or sirloins, these steaks are like nothing you have ever tasted. Stop by a nd s e e w hy Texas Roadhouse has been voted Best Steak in the Best of Texarkana contest for the past 19 years!

FINALISTS: Benchmark American Brasserie LongHorn Steakhouse Naaman’s Championship BBQ Pop’s Place

B E S T O F T E X A R K A N A™ 2 0 2 3 | four states living magazine

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Best Patio Dining

POP’S PLACE 870-773-4887 | facebook.com/pops.place.1

Winter, summer, spring, or fall, you can sit on the patio at Pop’s Place during ALL of the seasons. The patio at Pop’s is spread out, so nobody feels like they are dining on top of another table. There’s sometimes trivia on the patio, or music entertaining the people who love to see the trees and enjoy the fans, while being served one of the most divine meals to be found in Texarkana. Pop’s Place is not “on the beaten path,” but it is definitely worth finding, a couple of miles out of town. You will love their frozen drinks, cold beer, and specialty menu that is like nothing else in Texarkana. Again, worth the drive, and you might see a little wildlife around the patio if you are paying attention.

FINALISTS: Hopkins Icehouse Ironwood Grill On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina Redbone Magic Brewing Co.

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Best Cookies, Cakes, Pies, & Desserts JULIE’S DELI & MARKET 903-792-3354 | juliesdeli.com Monday through Saturday, if you are having a craving for something sweet, swing through Summerhill Square and head into Julie’s Deli.

Made from scratch every day, Julie’s has cookies, cupcakes, seasonal pies, and the most divine cakes, ready to go home with the person needing a cake. Julie’s bakery staff are also well-known for their wedding and party making skills, so check them out before you trust a special cake to a grocery store.

FINALISTS: Cakes by Carrie Graham Slam Bakery Susie Q’s Casseroles & Confections Texarkana Cookie Lady

Best Artist

MARY JANE ORR 870-773-2006

Mary Jane Orr is a Texarkana artist, well-known for her award-winning artwork, painted in bright colors, with a signature red. Mary Jane’s technique utilizes light, detail, depth, and color. Pa intings of her intricate floral works of art can be found in the most discerning collections.

FINALISTS: Joseph Raymond Darlene Taylor Jes Weiner Joel Wright

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Best Photographer

KENDAL DOCKERY PHOTOGRAPHY 903-733-6444 | kendaldockery.com

Best Law Firm

LANGDON DAVIS LAW FIRM 903-223-3246 | ldatty.com

Brent Langdon and his partner Kyle Davis, along with their associates, can be found representing clients before a judge on most days of the week. Their attorneys know the Texas and Arkansas court systems and are well respected by local judges, prosecutors, and court personnel in both states.

FINALISTS: Haltom & Doan Trial & Appellate Counsel Jason Horton Law Potter & Marks Attorneys at Law Ross & Shoalmire, PLLC

Passionate about photography, Kendal Dockery throws her heart and soul into capturing life’s celebrations. Whether shooting a beautiful wedding or documenting a baby’s first milestone, Kendal’s eye for detail and keen imagination is always apparent.

From behind a lens, Kendal enjoys creating timeless keepsakes for her clients and is always searching for that next perfect shot.

FINALISTS: Blessing Allison Photography Captured by Kelsi Cristi Hoyt Photography Dodson & Glover Photography Studio

B E S T O F T E X A R K A N A™ 2 0 2 3 | four states living magazine

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Best Caterer Or Chef

JEFF LOVING, CHEF ON THE RUN 903-276-8081 | cheffreyontherun.com Personal chef Jeff Loving has had thirt y years of experience in catering, owning restaurants, and cheffing for parties and events. Jeff ’s attention to detail is second to none. Jeff can often be found working private pa rties, specia l events, weddings, classes, and catering in the home.

A talent for sure, Jeff offers a gourmet experience for each and every client who uses him as a chef. There’s no wonder, the voters voted him #1.

FINALISTS: Cory House - Texarkana Independent School District Marjorie Slimer – Marj is Munchin Jennifer Tanner – Julie’s Deli & Market Becky Williams - Benchmark American Brasserie

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Best Florist

RUTH’S FLOWERS 903-793-6711 | ruthsflowers.net

Ruth’s Flowers has been an iconic floral business on Texas Boulevard for many years with Leenetta Tyler at the helm. Just recently, Leenetta sold her business, but the new owners credit this award to Leenetta’s passion and dedication to providing fresh flowers, live plants, and unique floral gifts for all occasions to her many customers and friends. Let Ruth’s design a lovely arrangement for you or your loved one!

FINALISTS: The Flowerroom Florist & Gifts H&N Floral, Gifts & Garden Persnickety Too Unique Flowers & Gifts

Best Furniture Store

FOUR STATES FURNITURE 903-223-4506 | fourstatesfurniture.com

A family-owned and community-oriented business, Four States Furniture provides quality home furnishings, partnering with over 50 of the top brands of furniture, mattresses, and home accents in the industry. Completely reimagined in 2022, Four States Furniture was remodeled and rebranded to serve the community.

With top notch designers on staff, shoppers will get help finding quality heirlooms to last a lifetime.

FINALISTS: Ashley Furniture HomeStore Ivan Smith Furniture Lafferty’s Home Center MerchantHouse B E S T O F T E X A R K A N A™ 2 0 2 3 | four states living magazine

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Best Hair Salon

THE BEAUTY BAR 903-276-4070 | beautybartxk.com

Located in the historic part of downtown Texarkana, Texas, the talented team of professionals at The Beauty Bar specialize in hair, makeup, bridal parties, facials & tanning.

Constantly learning new techniques, the stylists at The Beauty Bar make you look your best whether it’s for a current look refresh, a formal event, a weekend blowout, or a birthday makeover. The high-tech, sleek atmosphere in this modern salon allows busy professionals the ability to stay connected to work while also being pampered.

FINALISTS: The Emmanuel Collective Fringe Salon & Beauty Bar Salt & Light Hair Co. The Style Studio

B E S T O F T E X A R K A N A™ 2 0 2 3 | four states living magazine

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Best Gift Shop

Fan Fare Gifts 903-832-5196 | fanfaregiftsonline.com

Lesa and Tony Asbille have a g i f t shop l i ke none other in Texarkana.

Perhaps that is why Best of Texarkana voters have once again voted Fan Fare as “Best Gift Shop.” Fan Fare can help you find gifts for even the hardest person on your list. Need it monogrammed? Fan Fare will do it. Need luggage or Jon Hart Products? They have you covered. Looking for a baby gift? Fan Fare has the most extensive selection of luxury baby goods in town. Candles, Pandora, DIVA scents, and fun team attire add to all of the items that you can discover at Fan Fare.

FINALISTS: Dreidel. home + sundry The Flowerroom Florist & Gifts Ginger Junction The Village Floral & Gifts

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Best Jeweler

CROCKER’S JEWELERS 903-832-8686 crockersjewelers.com

When you go to Crocker’s Jewelers, you can expect a one-of-a-kind buying experience. If you are looking for a jeweler with a tradition of trust, high ethical standards, knowledge of jewelry products and services, fair pricing and value to customers, look no further than Crocker’s Jewelers. Located in their beautiful building on St. Michael Drive, Crocker’s is committed to making every customer feel welcome and has served generations of families as their trusted jeweler for brilliant diamonds, elegant watches, treasured gifts, fine jewelry, custom made styles and expert jewelry repairs.

FINALISTS: Alexander’s Jewelers Cooper Fine Jewelers Gray’s Jewelers Micah’s Jewelers

B E S T O F T E X A R K A N A™ 2 0 2 3 | four states living magazine

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Best Builder/Contractor JASON EPPINETTE CONSTRUCTION 903-908-1044 jasoneppinetteconstruction.com

Detail-oriented and talented, Jason Eppinette Construction provides full-service construction, renovation, and remodeling for those who are located in the Texarkana area. Owned by Kerry and Jason Eppinette, Jason Eppinette Construction offers honest and reliable service for those who are interested in a home remodel, building a custom home, or anything in-between. Trust Jason and his crew to help you build a beautiful living space that suits your lifestyle and budget.

FINALISTS: Gary Strickland Construction Greg McKay Construction MLM Construction, LLC Rogers Equipment & Construction

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Best Pet Groomer PAW PAW PATCH 903-831-7387

Whether babysitting your precious fur children or grooming, Tavo Cruz always provides the very best care that they all deserve. After all, “man’s best friend” deserves only the best treatment, and Tavo ensures that is happening.

FINALISTS: Eddie’s Dog Grooming, Boarding and Daycare FurCutz Georgia’s Pet Salon & Boutique PetSmart

B E S T O F T E X A R K A N A™ 2 0 2 3 | four states living magazine

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Best Place For Botox/Fillers

LONESTAR HEALTH & WELLNESS 903-306-0838 lonestarhealthwellness.com

Samantha Harris, FNP-C, opened LoneStar Health & Wellness in 2019, offering aesthetic services that boost patients’ self-confidence and image. BOTOX and dermal fillers are the most common regular skin procedures that women seek; Samantha loves helping her patients find in-office ways to rejuvenate their skin, ease wrinkles, and turn back the hands of time using BOTOX and fillers. Skilled in injecting, a great reputation has earned Harris and all of the staff of LoneStar Health & Wellness a Best of Texarkana seal of approval.

FINALISTS: Dermatology Associates LLP Eternal Beauty Medical Aesthetics Pleasant Grove Medical Spa ReNew Medical Spa

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Best Landscaping

H & N LANDSCAPING 903-792-0831 | handnlandscaping.com

Bruce Nix has spent his entire career catering to the lawns of Texarkana residents and businesses. His nursery and gift shop are located North of town on HWY. 71, where Nix carries trees, shrubbery, and flowers for every season.

H & N touts landscaping, irrigation, ponds, and more, as specialty services they provide. Whether you are a do-ityourselfer or need expert green thumbs, the team at H & N Landscaping are happy to help. Their eagerness to serve and help comes as no surprise, as they have been designing many of the Texarkana landscapes for many decades.

FINALISTS: Beacon Landscapes Freeman Landscape Studio 230 Taylor Lawn & Landscape

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Best Pediatrician

Best Tire Shop

Dr. Rachel King, of King Medical Clinic in Ashdown, Arkansas, is board certified in Internal Medicine as well as Pediatrics. A 2005 graduate of the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences, Dr. King spent several years at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Dr. King is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and a member of the American College of Physicians. With bot h adu lt a nd pediatric training, Dr. King enjoys being able to take care of the whole family in the communit y where she grew up. Parents drive from all over the four states area for Dr. Rachel King to see their children.

In business since 1998, Discount Wheel & Tire Pros is a familyowned and operated business. The Wylie family works hard to offer their customers the best tire service. With two Texarkana locations, Discount Wheel & Tire Pros provide convenient and quality service.

DR. RACHEL KING 870-898-KING (5464) | kingmd.org

FINALISTS: Dr. Clark Green Dr. Christina Payne Dr. Cindy Porter Dr. Cheryl Saul-Sehy

DISCOUNT WHEEL & TIRE PROS 903-793-0887 | dwandt.com (Summerhill Rd) 903-832-0408 (W. 7th St)

FINALISTS: Cooper Service Daniels New & Used Tires M&M Tire & Auto Center, Inc. Wilson Firestone Tire Center

B E S T O F T E X A R K A N A™ 2 0 2 3 | four states living magazine

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Best Designer/Decorator Lauren Callaway 903-280-8360 | lcsellstxk.com

It is no wonder that Lauren Callaway, of PH Properties + Designs, was voted Best Designer/Decorator in FSLM’s Best of Texarkana™ Readers’ Choice Awards. Lauren’s creative eye and keen sense of style comes in handy while transforming spaces for her clients. She knows that communication is key to a positive designing experience so she takes the time to listen to her clients’ preferences and takes into consideration exactly what they are looking for. If you are needing someone to guide you in making design choices, Lauren can help make that dream a reality by creating a functional, aesthetically pleasing home that you can enjoy for years to come.

FINALISTS: Kyle Barrett Jeff Brown Jennifer Cole Alicia Woodle

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Best Flooring Specialist

THE DESIGN CENTER AT RED RIVER LUMBER 903-793-0038 | redriverlumber.com

Founded in 1992, Red River Lumber is locally owned and operated. In their Design Center, they carry a large assortment of flooring from some of the most prominent manufacturers in the industry. Their flooring lineup includes brands such as Karndean, Marazzi, Daltile, and Shaw.

They stock carpet, ceramic tile, porcelain tile, hardwood flooring, and laminate flooring. Visit the Design Center to see all of the options for a part of the home that is used everyday: the flooring.

FINALISTS: The Carpet Shoppe Carter Adams Flooring Light House & Flooring Tally Alley Carpet Warehouse

B E S T O F T E X A R K A N A™ 2 0 2 3 | four states living magazine

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Best Dental Clinic

EAGLE DENTAL CENTER 903-794-9974 | eagledentaltxk.com

Eagle Dental Center, located on Moores Lane, prides itself on providing a professional dental team who will take care of their patients’ needs and listen to their concerns. The professionals at Eagle are committed to making sure your experiences in their dental chairs are pleasant and as comfortable as possible. The staff understands that your smile is your biggest asset, so they want to provide the best treatment available.

FINALISTS: Andrew S. Curry, DDS Castle Family Dental Lippian Family Dentistry Pleasant Grove Family Dentistry

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO VOTED IN THIS YEAR’S BEST OF TEXARKANA!

We appreciate our readers!

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Best Carpet Cleaner

BENNIE’S CARPET CLEANING 903-490-6626 | benniescarpetcleaning.com

Residential and commercial flooring cleaners, Bennie’s Carpet Cleaning does more than just carpets. Whether you need your home’s carpets cleaned, your upholstered furniture cleaned, kitchen or bath tile and grout made new again, pet treatments, laminate flooring done or even area rugs reworked, Bennie’s has the vote of the readers. They can also be found doing rental properties, hotels, churches, and even restaurants, in addition to residential housing.

FINALISTS: Chem-Dry of Texarkana Oxi Fresh Carpet Cleaning Perfection Restoration & Cleaning Stanley Steemer

B E S T O F T E X A R K A N A™ 2 0 2 3 | four states living magazine

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Best Real Estate Agency BETTER HOMES & GARDEN REAL ESTATE INFINITY 903-306-1454 | bhgre.com

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Infinity was born from a desire to offer a dynamic service that transcends the traditional real estate transaction.

Employees with BHG Real Estate Infinity understand that people seek a lifestyle as much as they seek a home, and by partnering with Better Homes and Gardens®, this agency was able to offer a variety of services and perks that added value even after a sale is complete. Owner Teresa Liepman believes that Texarkana is a great place to live and is full of amazing people, businesses, and schools that do amazing things every day ... and it all starts with a home.

FINALISTS: Coldwell Banker Elite, Realtors Goodman Group Realty Impact Realty Group RE/MAX Preferred

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Best Charity Event

ALZHEIMER’S ALLIANCE TRI-STATE AREA’S TWICE AS FINE WINE FESTIVAL 903-223-8021 | texarkanawinefestival.com

A wine, art, music and food festival for the Four States Area, the Twice as Fine Texarkana Wine Festival is a one-of-its-kind festival.

Targeting wine and food enthusiasts, this event brings in thousands of visitors every year as wineries across the State of Texas, as well as merchants and businesses, gather at one location in Spring Lake Park to taste, shop, and revel. Music and crafts are also a part of the mix, so join the Alzheimer’s Alliance Tri-State Area as they celebrate year eight!

FINALISTS: Hospice of Texarkana Jeans & Bling Opportunities, Inc. Invitational Golf Tournament Talimena Rally ’Cruisin for St. Jude Tough Kookie Breast Cancer Race

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Best New Business Lost Pizza Co. 903-716-9568 | lostpizza.com

Located on Gibson Lane, Jenny and Patrick Wilder opened Lost Pizza Co.’s Texarkana location on July 14, 2022.

With quirky décor, a fun atmosphere, and scrumptious pizza, sandwiches, pasta and salads, Lost Pizza’s dining experience is one you won’t easily forget. Get “lost” today and see why Lost Pizza Co. was voted #1 in two categories: Best Pizza and Best New Business.

FINALISTS: 4D Flowers & Gifts Alpha Stone TXK Nooks & Crannies Cleaning Co. The Vault Shabby & Chic Home Boutique

Best Non-Profit Group COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATES (CASA) 903-792-1030 | casatexarkana.org

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) has one main goal: to make a difference in the lives of children. CASA provides hope, healing and justice by empowering volunteers to advocate on behalf of abused and neglected children. These volunteers are critical to the work of CASA; they commit to represent and advocate for the children’s best interests and work hard to preserve the welfare of children. This nonprofit organization is a vital resource in the Texarkana community, advocating on the children’s behalf by giving them a voice.

FINALISTS: For The Sake Of One Opportunities, Inc. Talimena Rally ’Cruisin for St. Jude We Are Washington B E S T O F T E X A R K A N A™ 2 0 2 3 | four states living magazine

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Best Bank

FARMERS BANK AND TRUST 903-791-0490 | myfarmers.bank

Farmers Bank & Trust prides itself on honor, excellence, adaptability, respect, and teamwork.

The bank keeps its core values at the center of relationships with their employees, customers, and community. Known as the place for “Banking with Heart,” Farmers’ officers and employees help their friends and neighbors find financial solutions for a lifetime. Go by one of the Farmers Bank & Trust branches and see why they were voted #1 Best Bank. You might even run into former Texarkana Texas Mayor James Bramlett, who now serves as the Farmers Bank & Trust Texarkana Market President.

FINALISTS: Bodcaw Bank Commercial National Bank Guaranty Bank & Trust State Bank

Best Wedding Venue

FOUR FIFTEEN ESTATES 903-701-6060 | fourfifteenestates.com

Four Fifteen Estates, owned by Shelby and Caleb Stephens, is a beautiful, 50-acre, countryside wedding venue in New Boston, Texas. Every detail has been meticulously contemplated by this couple, who married in 2017 and got busy in the wedding industry very soon after. From a picture-perfect chapel to a gorgeous celebration hall, every bride’s wishlist is covered at Four Fifteen Estates.

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FINALISTS: Blessing Tree Farm Garrison Gardens Ramage Farm Weddings Tree Haven

Best Credit Union RED RIVER CREDIT UNION 903-793-7681 | rrcu.com

A premier financial institution, Red River Credit Union offers membership loans, deposit accounts, and financial services to meet every need. Memberships are available to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in the service area. RRCU prides itself that every member is an owner in the credit union. Online banking, convenient locations, overdraft protection, and credit and debit cards are just a few of the reasons that Texarkana residents voted Red River Credit Union best in the area for fifteen years in a row.

FINALISTS: Domino Federal Credit Union MilWay Federal Credit Union TEXAR Federal Credit Union Texarkana Terminal Federal Credit Union

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Best Insurance Agency KELLI ASHBROOK STATE FARM 903-223-8100 | kelliashbrook.com

Kelli Ashbrook and her team of insurance specialists help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams. Whether you are searching for auto insurance, homeowner’s insurance, renter’s insurance, life insurance, or business/commercial insurance throughout the Texarkana, Texas, and Texarkana, Arkansas, area, give Kelli Ashbrook a call and see why voters keep choosing her as their favorite year after year!

FINALISTS: Derrick McGary State Farm Higginbotham™ Texarkana (Barry Insurance) Mims Farmers Insurance Texas Farm Bureau

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Best Place To Work

CHRISTUS ST. MICHAEL HEALTH SYSTEM 903-614-1000 | christushealth.org

CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System is a Catholic, faith-based health system and a part of CHRISTUS Health, established in 1916 by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word. CHRISTUS St. Michael offers a full scope of expansive health care services which are part of its health philosophy. CHRISTUS St. Michael is one of the area’s largest employers; committed professionals care for patients all day every day. There is no wonder why this health care facility was voted best place to work.

FINALISTS: Farmers Bank and Trust Pleasant Grove Independent School District Red River Credit Union Total Medical Supply

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Best Preschool

WILLIAMS SCHOOL 903-838-9517 | facebook.com/williamspreschool

Managed by Lorie Son, The Williams School has evolved over many years into a premier day school for children up to five years old. In a Christian setting, children are taught age-appropriate curriculum by trained preschool teachers. Limited class sizes make learning more individualized. A first rate organization, parents need to stay on the Williams School radar, and get on a waiting list as soon as they may be interested, as there is always a waiting list.

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FINALISTS: First Baptist Church Weekday Preschool Learning Station Child Development Center St. James Day School Training Station Child Development Center

Best Place For K ids To Play IJUMP TRAMPOLINE PARK & ADVENTURE SPORTS 903-705-1230 | ijumptexarkana.com

Best Place For Live Entertainment REDBONE MAGIC BREWING 903-306-0822 | redbonemagic.com

If you are looking for a first-class, indoor facility to take the kids, iJump on St. Michael Drive is the place to go. They provide trampolines, air bags, dodgeball courts, basketball hoops, competitive style ninja courses and much more. Their private rooms are available for birthday parties or meetings, and the fullservice iCafe features snacks. A parent lounge with free Wi-Fi is even available so the adults can sit back and relax while the kiddos are having fun. The kids love iJump, and their parents do, too!

FINALISTS: Bringle Lake Park Holiday Lanes Holiday Springs Water Park Spring Lake Park

If you are an adult, looking to have FUN, there is no other place you should go! Debbie and Roger Sheppard had an overarching goal that went along with opening their first restaurant and brewery: they wanted to “Make Texarkana Fun Again.” Truly, Tuesday through Sunday of every week, Roger and Debbie can be found entertaining guests on the patio, showcasing their homebrew, and Roger will often do magic tricks to keep tables amazed. Whether you want to do Karaoke Thursday or Trivia Wednesday, or see the best live music every weekend, you are in for a treat at Redbone Magic Brewing. On a sunny day, you can even have your pet out on the patio while you catch a jam session. True to their word, the Sheppards are Making Texarkana Fun! FINALISTS: 67 Landing Crossties Event and Wedding Venue Hopkins Icehouse Perot Theatre 52

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Best Downtown Destination ZAPATA MEXICAN GRILL & CANTINA 870-774-0272

L ocated in a historic building in downtown Texarkana, Zapata Grill offers a vast menu of Mexican cuisine, while serving the best margaritas found any where in the Four States Area.

Breathing life into the heart of downtown Texarkana, Zapatas is packed throughout the week, a true testament to its great following.

FINALISTS: Crossties Event and Wedding Venue The Hideout Hopkins Icehouse Verona Restaurant and Wine Bar

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Best Place To Get Pampered

ETERNAL BEAUTY MEDICAL AESTHETICS & DAY SPA 903-278-9566 eternalbeautytexarkana.com

Eternal Beauty Medical Aesthetics & Day Spa offers clients a carefully balanced regimen of aesthetic and clinical care.

Elizabeth Jacobsen and her staff of trained professionals consult with clients to devise just the right treatment – whether it’s float water therapy, IV infusions, facials, massages, Botox, or simply helping choose the latest skin care products. Eternal Beauty offers a full-range of medical spa services and is a favorite of both FSLM readers and Texarkana patrons.

FINALISTS: Annie Rateliff Skincare Elysium Natural Spa ReNew Medical Spa Time In A Bottle Day Spa

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Best Emergency Care

TEXARKANA EMERGENCY CENTER & HOSPITAL 903-838-8000 | texarkanaemergencycenter.com

Locally owned and operated by board-certified emergency physicians, Texarkana Emergency Center and Hospital is open 365 days of the year for adult and pediatric care.

The difference is in the wait times. This emergency room prides itself on being patientfocused first and faster than the others. With a full clinical lab and state-of-the-art CT Scan, MRI, X-Ray, and Ultrasound, faster care in an emergency is better care.

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FINALISTS: CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System HealthCARE Express SignatureCare Emergency Center Wadley Regional Medical Center

Best Title Company

TWIN CITY TITLE 903-793-7671 | twincitytitle.com

Title companies work to protect clients f rom f i na ncia l los s re su lt i ng f rom unknown judgments and liens, unlawful transfers, issues within a property’s title, and applications of fraud in a real estate closing. Buyers, sellers, real estate agents, homebuilders, and financial institutions work with Twin City Title every day for residential, commercial, and land transactions. Twin City Title provides the title insurance and related real estate closing services for the celebratory part of a closing transaction. Locally owned since 1981, Twin City Title is committed to being the best in their industry.

FINALISTS: Capital Title Miller County Abstract & Title Southwest Title Company Stewart Title of Texarkana

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Best Social Media Presence

TEXARKANA TEXAS POLICE DEPARTMENT 903-798-3116 facebook.com/texarkanapolice

Keeping the community abreast of threats to citizens, Texa rk a na Texa s Police Department (TTPD) Public Information Officer Shawn Vaughn does a magnificent job for the police force on Facebook.

Stories of ridiculous criminals, intertwined with Amber Alerts, f looding threats, drug arrests, and community dangers, keep readers looking for the next tale of #notinmyneighborhood.

FINALISTS: Ashley Taylor Cooper Graham Slam Bakery Local Habit Coffee Company Texarkana Gameday

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Best Mortgage Lender RED RIVER CREDIT UNION 903-735-3000 | rrcu.com

If the process of home ownership seems daunting because of mortgage applications, Red River Credit Union is a resource for where to begin. With a trusted team of mortgage loan originators willing to assist members through every stage of the homebuying process, you can feel confident in knowing you have highly qualified financial professionals on your side. If you are ready to reap the benefits of home ownership, check out Red River Credit Union to help you today.

FINALISTS: Commercial National Bank Farmers Bank and Trust Guaranty Bank & Trust State Bank

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RIDICULOUS

Responses Now it’s time to share the outtakes...

over the weeks that the ballots came in, we received several humorous responses that we had to share with our readers. Hope you get as big a kick out of them as we did when we read them.

BEST SEAFOOD Shrimp.

BEST COCKTAIL

Bourbon with no junk in it.

BEST BARBECUE

Place with a pig on sign.

BEST EMERGENCY CARE WebMD.

BEST PLACE FOR LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Comment section on TikTok.

BEST CARPET CLEANER Probably a vacuum.

BEST TO TAKE AN OUT-OF-TOWN GUEST The movies.

BEST STEAK Sirloin.

BEST PLACE TO GET PAMPERED Diaper aisle at WalMart.

BEST INSURANCE AGENCY That one where Flo works.

BEST COOKIES/CAKES/PIES/SWEETS Girl Scouts.

BEST BANK

Mason jars in the backyard.