Flipping burgers and adding her special seasoning was Activities Director Carlisa Brown's job Friday at Edgewood Manor Nursing and Rehab.
It was hot work, standing over the grill on a summer day. But Brown enjoyed putting the burgers on the table and seeing local law enforcement from both the Texarkana, Texas, and Texarkana, Ark., police departments fill their plates.
The event was a gratitude lunch for staff and residents of Edgewood Manor to show their support for local law enforcement.
"It's come and go. They can come by and pick up a lunch whenever they have some free time," Brown said.
"They picked me to cook," she said, laughing. "So here I am. Everybody has been very appreciative."
Edgewood Administrator Betty Lawson said she believes most people in the community have a good working relationship with local officers, and the staff and residents wanted to express their appreciation.
The officers were able to choose a hamburger or hot dog and chips. Sodas were also included.
Friday's lunch was held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to accommodate more officers. Many were in the middle of a shift and had to take a container to go.
"Everybody has been showing us a lot of support and we really appreciate it," said Texarkana, Texas, Sgt. Billy McAnally.
The event stemmed from the July 7 shooting in downtown Dallas. A heavily armed sniper killed five police officers and wounded several more during a demonstration against fatal police shootings of black men in Minnesota and Louisiana.
The incident ended when a Dallas police bomb squad robot killed a gunman after negotiations with the gunman failed.
Texarkana, Ark., Police Lt. Bobby Jordan said Texarkana residents have been very supportive of local officers.
"The public in general has been really showing their support over the last week," he said.
Some City Council members and city administrators also attended the event.
"In light of the recent events and the tragedies, we wanted to do our part to show our gratitude for local law enforcement," said Dr. Brian Matthews, director of marketing for Edgewood Manor.
Matthews is also Ward 4 director on the Texarkana, Texas, City Council.
He calls Texarkana law enforcement "unsung heroes."
"We have an outstanding relationship with our officers. The City Council has an ear for anything they might need," Matthews said.