Octavious Deshon Lakes grew up in Buford, Georgia, and knew before he even graduated from Forest Park High School that we wanted to join the U.S. Army and serve his country.  “Tay”, as his friends called him, was a fitness enthusiast who’s big life goal was to one day open a gym with his fiancé Mabinty.  But, handling his goals in proper order, Tay enlisted in the U.S. Army in March of 2017 and was assigned to Fort Hood as a Combat Engineer in the 3rd Brigade. 

As many of you know, we lost my mother two years ago in December to pancreatic cancer. Fortunately, we had convinced her and my dad to move up to this area just a couple of years before, so we were able to be there when we were needed most. Through all of it, we felt...

The title to this writing is a famous line from the origins of my relationship with Priscilla. About 16-1/2 years ago we knew each other, had known each other for a while and were finally touching on the subject of seeing one another in something other than a business setting. I asked, she accepted, then

In case you didn’t know, Linnemann Realty happens to be staffed by the most amazing employees and agents on the planet. Priscilla and I take great pride in the longevity, dedication, and enthusiasm we see in every person who graces a desk at our office. A recent event reminded us both of that very fact.

Having never served I have no direct experience as a Soldier or Veteran, and like all other good Americans, I salute them today and every day for the sacrifices they make. I grew up a military brat, and have spent the vast majority of my adult life working and living in Central Texas, a...