They are our future so, lets give them the world. Our education building teams support and guide school leaders through the construction process, making it an enjoyable experience. We bring your vision to life, maximizing your budget for students. Having built for hundreds of districts, large and small, we’re proud to say we’ve never missed an opening day. Check out our Texas Division!
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to become consumed with the demands of daily life, but it’s crucial to remember the importance of investing in ourselves, our relationships, our community, and our finances. These four areas are the foundation for a fulfilling, balanced life, and when nurtured properly, they have the power to create lasting positive change.
Investing in ourselves means prioritizing selfcare, personal growth, and well-being. Whether it’s through education, health, or mindfulness, making time for personal development allows us to show up as our best selves, not only for our benefit but for those around us as well.
Our relationships, whether with family, friends, or colleagues, are vital sources of support and connection. By investing time and energy into these bonds, we cultivate trust, understanding, and shared experiences that enrich our lives.
Community involvement plays a significant role in shaping a better world for everyone. By contributing to our communities, we foster unity and make a meaningful difference. Whether through volunteering or simply lending a helping hand, these acts create stronger, more resilient neighborhoods.
Lastly, financial investment is essential for securing a stable future. By making smart, informed decisions about our finances, we lay the groundwork for both present comfort and long-term success.
Let’s commit to investing in these areas, building a life of purpose, security, and meaningful connections.
Warm regards,
ANGIE TERRY, PUBLISHER @ANNACITYLIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Angie Terry | angie.terry@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Shannon Roberts | shannon.roberts@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Allison Stech
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Empowering
Attention all parents and parents-to-be! Elevate your family’s health with our specialized Prenatal and Pediatric Chiropractic Care, centered on optimizing the nervous system! Harnessing state-of-the-art scanning technology, we pinpoint the root cause of health challenges, providing targeted solutions for long-lasting wellness. Don’t settle for temporary fixes – ignite true vitality with Spark Life Chiropractic! Experience the transformative benefits for yourself and your little ones.
Serenity Pool and Spa Care is a locally owned and operated business that values honesty and integrity, taking pride in the services provided to residential clients. They offer weekly, monthly, or other routinely scheduled services, specifically for in-ground cleaning. Free estimates are provided, and their pricing is competitively set. The company looks forward to building lasting relationships and guarantees customer satisfaction.
Anna Dental combines advanced dentistry with a welcoming, small-town atmosphere. The team prioritizes comfort and relaxation, offering personalized care for a positive experience. Conveniently located, they provide modern amenities like TVs in every operatory, ensuring quality care with compassion, respect, and a focus on making each visit comfortable and stress-free.
Anna Family Healthcare is dedicated to promoting community health by offering accessible, high-quality medical care for all ages. Committed to exceeding patient expectations, the practice focuses on personalized care, preventative services, and annual check-ups to ensure the well-being of every patient.
EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES THROUGH INTEGRITY, SERVICE, AND FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS
ARTICLE BY ANGIE TERRY
Farmers Bank and Trust, a vital institution in Magnolia, Arkansas, has been a trusted community partner since its founding in 1906. Starting with only $75,000 in assets, the bank has grown into a strong financial entity with assets totaling $2.8 billion today. Throughout its history, Farmers Bank has not only thrived in the financial services industry but has also remained deeply committed to the well-being of the communities it serves.
At its core, Farmers Bank is more than just a place for banking; it is a true pillar of the local community. The bank’s employees actively participate in numerous community initiatives and volunteer efforts, showing their dedication to making their hometown a better place to live and work. This involvement reflects the bank’s overarching mission: “Our goal is to make the communities we serve better places for employees, bank customers, and all community members.” This philosophy goes beyond simple financial transactions—it encourages both employees and customers to get involved, reinforcing the strong connections that foster community growth and success.
Farmers Bank’s commitment to customer service reflects a deep-rooted desire to build long-term relationships with the people it serves. Whether helping a family save for the future, assisting a business in expanding, or guiding a couple through securing a home loan, Farmers Bank is focused on
providing tailored financial solutions that meet both short- and long-term needs. The bank’s success is not just about its financial products and services, it is about creating lasting partnerships built on trust and a shared commitment to the community’s prosperity.
The foundation of Farmers Bank’s success lies in its core values, known as “HEART,” which guide every aspect of its operations. These values serve as the framework for how the bank interacts with its customers, employees, and the broader community.
1. Honor: Farmers Bank itself holds the highest ethical standards, always doing the right thing. By fostering a culture of integrity and transparency, the bank has earned the trust of its clients, resulting in a loyal customer base built on mutual respect.
4. Respect: Farmers Bank values everyone— whether a customer, employee, or community member. This respect is reflected in open communication, active listening, and an environment that encourages both personal and professional growth. By embracing these values, the bank fosters innovation and mutual understanding.
5. Teamwork: The bank recognizes that success is a collective effort. Farmers Bank encourages collaboration among its employees, working together to achieve the bank’s shared vision and mission. This collaborative approach strengthens the bank’s ability to meet its goals and ensures continued success in the years ahead.
“Friends and neighbors helping each other find financial solutions for a lifetime”
2. Excellence: The bank strives for excellence in every action, from delivering outstanding customer service to continuously improving its financial solutions. Farmers Bank’s relentless pursuit of excellence ensures that it consistently exceeds customer expectations, creating strong and lasting relationships.
3. Adaptability : Farmers Bank is agile, always responding to the evolving financial landscape. The bank’s ability to anticipate changes in the economy, regulatory shifts, and customer needs ensures its continued growth and ability to meet the ever-changing demands of the marketplace.
For over a century, Farmers Bank and Trust has earned a reputation based on sound banking practices, a strong connection to the community, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. As the bank enters its next century of service, it remains focused on providing innovative financial solutions while staying true to its core principles of integrity, respect, and excellence. Whether seeking personal banking services, business solutions, or simply trusted financial advice, Farmers Bank is dedicated to helping customers navigate their financial journeys.
Farmers Bank is more than just a financial institution; it is an integral part of the local fabric. With the opening of its new Anna branch at 2100 W White Street, Ste 190, expected by this summer, the bank continues to expand its reach and enhance its services for even more community members.
Sponsored by T Wilson
Anna Expands Easter Eggstravaganza to Ensure Inclusivity for All Children
The City of Anna’s Easter Eggstravaganza returns on Saturday, April 12, bringing a full lineup of family-friendly activities and a continued focus on inclusivity. Now in its third year, the event’s Adaptive Egg Hunts have become a centerpiece of the city’s efforts to ensure that all children, regardless of ability, can experience the joy of the season.
Following overwhelmingly positive feedback from last year’s event, City staff have worked extensively to make this year’s event even more accessible and engaging. The Recreation team has worked to enhance and improve the Adaptive Egg Hunts to better serve children with mobility challenges and visual impairments. With carefully planned staggered start times and modified hunt areas, these hunts provide a safe and supportive environment for all participants.
The Beeping Egg Hunt, designed for children with visual impairments, will begin at 10 a.m. at the Slayter Creek Splash Pad, followed by adaptive hunts for different age groups. Registration is encouraged to help organizers provide the best possible experience.
All traditional egg hunts will begin at 11 a.m. at the Slayter Creek Ballfields, with designated fields for different age groups to ensure an organized and enjoyable experience. Families with multiple children are encouraged to attend the hunt assigned to their oldest child. Beyond the hunts, families can enjoy selfie stations with the Easter Bunny, a petting zoo, bounce houses, a bubble bus, crafts, and food vendors.
Also taking place on April 12, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Slayter Creek Park, the Non-Profit & Volunteer “Impact Expo” provides a separate opportunity for neighbors to connect with more than 30 local organizations serving Collin County. This expo offers details into services and resources available in the community, as well as ways to get involved through volunteering.
While the Easter Eggstravaganza focuses on seasonal fun for children and families, the Non-Profit & Volunteer Fair is an excellent way for neighbors of all ages to explore opportunities to give back and support causes that matter to them. Whether attending one or both events, neighbors are encouraged to take advantage of these free events to connect with others.
For more details and to register for the Adaptive Egg Hunts, visit the city’s website at www.annatexas.gov/Easter.
Wellness isn’t about restricting — it’s really about giving. Giving to yourself and to your body in a way that allows them both to thrive. The cool part? The things that give to your body naturally give to your mind, your hormones, your earth, your relationships, and so on — it’s all beautifully interconnected in that way. Eat your greens, cook at home, choose local produce and quality meats, don’t be scared of healthy fats — but also support local farmers, move in a way that makes your body and mind feel good, prioritize times of mindfulness and stillness.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 6 oz. filets of wild caught salmon
• 1 Tbsp. avocado oil
• 1 Tbsp. coconut aminos
• Zest and juice from one lemon
• 1 Tbsp. stone ground mustard
• 1 4 oz. container coconut yogurt, unsweetened
• 2 Tbsp. fresh dill, minced
• 2 Tbsp. capers, drained and minced
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
1. Marinate the salmon in the lemon juice, coconut aminos, and stone ground mustard for up to two hours.
2. Drizzle salmon with avocado oil, sprinkle with salt and ground pepper, and broil on high for five to seven minutes, until cooked to desired temperature.
3. Mix coconut cream, lemon zest, dill, capers, and ground pepper together.
4. Top salmon with coconut cream, serve with roasted or sautéed veggies, brown or cauliflower rice, or fresh greens. Enjoy!
We often focus on physical health, career success, and relationships, yet our mental health is just as important, if not more so. Investing in mental well-being is not a luxury but a necessity for a balanced, fulfilling life.
Our mental health shapes how we think, feel, and interact with the world. It influences relationships, stress management, and self-worth. Neglecting mental health can lead to burnout, anxiety, and depression, disrupting daily life. With the pressures of work, family, and society, we may forget to care for ourselves. Prioritizing mental health is crucial, as it’s one of the most important investments we can make.
When you prioritize mental health, you build a solid foundation to manage life’s challenges. No matter how successful our careers or relationships may be, life will inevitably bring difficulties. Personal loss, health scares, or unexpected changes are inevitable, and a stable mental foundation allows us to face these obstacles with resilience and clarity. Without mental stability, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. By investing in mental health, we equip ourselves with tools to cope with stress and adapt to change.
Prioritizing your mental well-being for personal growth, stronger relationships, and long-term happiness
ARTICLE BY ALLISON STECH
Investing in mental health also improves relationships. When neglected, mental health can lead to emotional exhaustion, irritability, and difficulty connecting with others. Stress and anxiety can cause us to withdraw or react poorly, affecting family, friends, and colleagues. On the other hand, when we take time to nurture mental health, we become more present and emotionally available. Healthy relationships are rooted in emotional awareness, empathy, and communication, all of which are nurtured by good mental health. By investing in your mental health, you improve the quality of your connections with others.
Additionally, investing in mental health enhances decision-making and goal achievement. A clear mind helps us focus on what matters, prioritize tasks, and take meaningful action. Stress and anxiety can lead to feeling paralyzed or scattered, preventing progress. Practicing mental health strategies, whether therapy, mindfulness, journaling, or self-care—provides space for thoughtful decisions and purposeful action. Lastly, investing in mental health fosters long-term happiness. Mental well-being shapes how we experience the world. By nurturing it, we open the door to greater joy and fulfillment. You don’t have to wait for a crisis to take care of your mind. Just as we exercise our bodies for physical health, we can practice habits supporting mental health daily. Prioritizing mental well-being helps us enjoy life more, experience peace of mind, and embrace the present moment without the weight of constant stress.
Taking care of your mental health is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s a proactive, empowering choice to care for your mind—the one thing that influences every aspect of life. Investing in mental health is an investment in your future, relationships, and happiness. Like any other asset, the more you put into it, the more you get out.
• Therapy/Counseling
• Mindfulness/Meditation
• Regular Exercise
• Adequate Sleep
• Healthy Nutrition
• Setting Boundaries
• Journaling
• Social Connections
• Hobbies/Creative Activities
• Taking Breaks
• Mindset/Affirmations
• Limiting Screen Time
• Yoga
• Spending Time in Nature
• Breathing Exercises
Enjoy this refreshing cocktail for a soft, round and subtly sweet taste with a fruity fresh kick.
HAKU LYCHEE MARTINI
• 2 oz. HAKU® Japanese Craft Vodka
• 1 oz. house made lychee simple syrup
ingredients: directions:
1. Combine ingredients 2. Shake vigorously over ice 3. Strain and serve up in a chilled martini glass 4. Garnish with a lychee
It is with great pleasure to announce Zoe Townsend as the Outstanding Student-Athlete of the Month, as selected by the Anna Independent School District Athletic Coaching Team.
Zoe is a dedicated 10th grader at Anna High School, balancing academics, sports, and extracurricular activities. Her favorite color is pink, and she is an avid fan of Texas A&M’s athletic teams, especially their football, softball, baseball, and volleyball programs.
Math is Zoe’s favorite subject, as she finds it easy to understand. She has been playing softball since she was six, excluding the two years lost during the pandemic. Zoe enjoys both the outfield and the catcher position.
Outside of softball, Zoe is heavily involved in several activities, including Athletic Training, FCA, photography, and managing social media for the varsity football team. She also volunteers every
weekend at her church, Anchor, helping with photography and serving in the kids’ ministry. Zoe is passionate about helping others and spreading the gospel.
Academically, she maintains a 3.8 GPA and was nominated to support special education students in a previous school. Zoe was also named Athletic Trainer of the Year and earned the Athlete of the Week award during a summer performance course.
Looking ahead, Zoe aims to join the top 10% of her class, join NHS, and make the playoffs with her softball team. After high school, she hopes to study Kinesiology at Texas A&M University, pursuing a career as a Physical Therapist or Athletic Trainer to stay involved in sports while helping others.
Congratulations to Zoe and her selection as April Outstanding Student-Athlete of the Month!
9:00am - 5:00pm
8:00am - 5:00pm
ARTICLE BY ALLISON STECH
Traveling is often viewed as a luxury—an opportunity to escape the daily grind for relaxation and fun. However, there are deeper, often transformative benefits that make travel more than just a getaway. Travel can shape your perspective, enhance personal growth, and even elevate
“Travel is an investment in yourself, expanding your worldview, enhancing personal growth, and unlocking new career opportunities.”
your career. It is not just an investment in new destinations but in yourself. Whether discovering new cities, immersing yourself in diverse cultures, or stepping out of your comfort zone, travel provides profound benefits that affect how you see the world, relate to others, and navigate your career. At its core, traveling broadens your worldview. Exploring unfamiliar places exposes you to different ways of thinking, living, and being. Whether it’s experiencing cultural traditions, tasting new cuisines, or learning about history, travel challenges your usual mindset, offering new perspectives. In our globalized world, understanding and appreciating diverse cultures is crucial. This experience fosters empathy and provides insights into human behavior, communication, and social structures, enhancing personal and professional relationships.
This expanded perspective often leads to a deeper sense of gratitude. Traveling, particularly to places with different living standards or economic realities, can make you more appreciative of the privileges you may take for granted. It allows you to view your own life from a fresh angle, recognizing joys and comforts often overlooked in your daily routine. This gratitude fosters a positive mindset, improving emotional well-being, contentment, and resilience. These qualities play a significant role in how you approach challenges in your personal and professional life.
Travel also teaches valuable skills like adaptability, flexibility, and resourcefulness, which are vital in both personal and professional settings. Navigating unfamiliar places, managing logistics, and overcoming language barriers develop critical
thinking skills applicable to everyday situations. Travel forces you to think on your feet, manage uncertainty, and make the best of unexpected circumstances. These experiences sharpen your ability to be resourceful and flexible—qualities highly valued in today’s rapidly changing world. In your career, being adaptable to new situations, environments, and challenges is essential, and travel hones this ability in a way few other experiences can.
Moreover, the personal growth that comes with travel extends to confidence and independence. Traveling on your own, planning your trip, figuring out transportation, or overcoming unexpected challenges fosters self-reliance. This increased confidence and independence carry over into all aspects of life, making you more assertive and capable of handling obstacles. You return from your travels not only with new memories but with a reinforced belief in your ability to face new challenges and step outside your comfort zone.
On a more practical level, traveling also impacts your career. It presents opportunities to develop new skills, such as learning a new language, mastering technologies, or refining cross-cultural communication. These skills make you more valuable in the workplace, especially in a globalized job market. Employers seek individuals with diverse experiences and perspectives, and travel enriches your professional portfolio. Whether it’s communicating more effectively with international clients or navigating multicultural teams, the experiences gained from travel distinguish you as an adaptable, forward-thinking professional. Additionally, travel provides opportunities for networking and building relationships across borders. The people you meet along the way—whether fellow travelers, local entrepreneurs, or business professionals—can open doors to new opportunities. A casual conversation while traveling can turn
“Exploring new cultures and stepping outside your comfort zone not only broadens your perspective but also fosters resilience, adaptability, and invaluable skills that enhance both personal growth and professional success.”
into a collaboration, a business idea, or a job offer. Travel allows you to expand your professional network globally, which is increasingly important in today’s interconnected economy. You never know where a connection made during your travels could lead, whether it’s to a potential business partner, a mentor, or even a future colleague.
Beyond the tangible benefits, traveling offers an invaluable sense of freedom and personal fulfillment. Stepping away from your routine to explore new destinations allows you to recharge, rediscover passions, and refocus your energy. Travel often provides clarity, inspiration, and fresh perspectives on both personal life and career. Stepping outside your comfort zone can allow you to come back with fresh energy, innovative ideas, and a
stronger sense of direction. This mental reset is essential for sustaining long-term motivation and avoiding burnout in both personal and professional areas.
Traveling is more than just an escape; it is an investment in yourself. It challenges you, broadens your mind, builds resilience, and empowers you to face life’s obstacles with a greater sense of perspective and confidence. Whether it’s expanding your worldview, developing new skills, improving your mental health, or enhancing your career, the rewards of traveling are far-reaching. In a world where personal growth and professional success are often intertwined, travel serves as a powerful tool that can shape both who you are and who you aspire to become. Once embraced, the benefits of travel continue long after you return home.
ARTICLE BY ALLISON STECH
Investing in a Consistent Daily Routine Can Bring Stability, Well-Being, and Balance to Your Life
In the fast-paced world we live in, it’s easy to overlook what truly matters. With our busy schedules full of meetings, demands, deadlines, and responsibilities, we often neglect the one thing that holds everything together—ourselves. Establishing a healthy daily routine can make the difference between merely surviving and truly thriving amidst life’s unpredictability. While we can’t predict the future, we can control how we respond to the chaos around us. A solid daily routine doesn’t just create structure; it supports mental health, enhances productivity, and empowers us to face challenges with confidence.
One of the most important benefits of a consistent routine is the mental stability it offers. In an uncertain world, having a reliable daily schedule provides something we can count on. Knowing what to do each day reduces stress and decision fatigue, allowing us to focus on the present rather than feeling overwhelmed by the unknown. A well-established routine—whether it includes morning exercise, dedicated work time, or a nightly wind-down—grounds us, providing clarity and helping us navigate life’s curveballs with a calm, steady mindset.
Mental health is significantly impacted by a daily routine. Anxiety, stress, and depression can be difficult to manage, especially when life feels unpredictable. A structured routine allows us to regain control. Simple habits like regular exercise, balanced meals, and adequate sleep form the foundation of a routine that promotes mental well-being. Physical activity, for instance, has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve mood, making it easier to cope with stress. By consistently incorporating these habits, we build resilience and better handle life’s challenges.
Furthermore, a daily routine nurtures a sense of accomplishment. Each task, no matter how small, offers a sense of forward movement. This is especially helpful when life feels overwhelming, or when setbacks seem to dominate. When you create and stick to a routine, you make measurable progress, even on tough days. Completing tasks, whether it’s finishing a work assignment, setting aside time for a hobby, or simply preparing a healthy meal—reinforces self-worth and boosts emotional resilience. These small wins are vital in maintaining a positive outlook during stressful times.
“A WELL-ESTABLISHED
DAILY ROUTINE OFFERS MENTAL STABILITY, REDUCES STRESS, AND BUILDS RESILIENCE. BY PRIORITIZING
SIMPLE HABITS LIKE EXERCISE, SLEEP, AND TIME MANAGEMENT, WE CAN BETTER
NAVIGATE LIFE’S CHALLENGES, ENHANCE OUR WELL-BEING, AND MAINTAIN A SENSE OF CONTROL IN AN UNPREDICTABLE WORLD”
In addition to mental health, a consistent routine also supports physical health. When we prioritize habits like regular exercise, nutritious meals, and enough sleep, we’re investing in our long-term physical well-being. Having a set time each day for physical activity ensures that it remains a priority, rather than something you squeeze in only when convenient. This consistency improves cardiovascular health, boosts energy levels, and strengthens the immune system. A well-structured routine also makes it easier to maintain a balanced diet, as you’re more likely to plan meals rather than resort to unhealthy snacks due to stress or lack of time. By structuring when and what you eat, you can avoid the pitfalls of mindless eating and support your body’s nutritional needs.
Another crucial benefit of a daily routine is its ability to help with time management. In a world where demands multiply every day, it’s easy to become scattered and overwhelmed. Without a routine, it’s hard to stay on track, and the pressure of juggling everything can be overwhelming. But by designating specific times for work, rest, and personal activities, a routine allows you to manage your time more effectively. This organization leads to greater productivity and less stress because you can focus on what truly matters, without constantly feeling pulled in a thousand different directions. A routine helps free up mental energy, allowing you to prioritize the things that align with your goals and values.
A daily routine also strengthens our sense of control over our environment. In a world where so much feels out of our hands, a solid routine empowers us to shape how we spend our time. Even in chaotic circumstances, we can still control
how we structure our day. This sense of control brings comfort and enables us to make positive, impactful changes in our lives. By incorporating activities we enjoy—such as reading, spending time with family, or engaging in creative pursuits—our routine ensures that even the most unpredictable days hold moments of joy and purpose.
While life’s unpredictability is inevitable, a strong daily routine equips us to manage it with strength, clarity, and purpose. We can’t control everything that happens, but we can choose how to respond. A routine is not about rigidity or perfection; it’s about creating a structure that supports our well-being. It provides stability in an uncertain world and empowers us to live balanced, fulfilling lives. Whether by nurturing mental health, maintaining physical well-being, or fostering meaningful relationships, a daily routine acts as the foundation that enables us to build resilience and navigate life’s difficulties with grace.
APRIL 5TH
Intro to Pickleball Clinic - Adults 50+
Slayter Creek Park Pickleball Courts, 425 W Rosamond Parkway Anna, TX 75409 | 9:00 AM
Join us for a free 60-minute clinic designed for players with little or no experience in pickleball. Clinic dates are based on age groups. Must be pre-registered to participate. Please bring your own paddle or you may borrow one from the instructor on site.
APRIL 12TH
Easter Eggstravaganza
Slayter Creek Ballfields (Traditional Egg Hunt) & Slayter Creek Splash Pad (Adaptive Egg Hunt for Special Needs) | 10:00 AM
Beeping Egg Hunt:
Children with Visual Impairments (all ages)-10a.m. | 2-3 yrs.-(10:15 a.m.) | 4-6 yrs.-(10:30 a.m.) | 7-10 yrs.-(10:45 a.m.) | 11-12 yrs.-(11:15 a.m.) | 13+ yrs. (11:30 a.m.)
Traditional Egg Hunt:
All traditional egg hunts at 11 a.m. Multiple-child families, please attend your oldest child’s egg hunt. | 2-3 yrs.-Field 4 | 4-6 yrs.-Field 3 | 7-10 yrs.-Field 1 | 11-12 yrs.-Field 2
APRIL 15TH
Doggie Easter Egg Hunt
Natural Springs Park, 1201 W. White Street Anna, TX 75409 | 5:30 PM
Bring your dog to Natural Springs Paw Park to hunt for hidden treats and take selfies with the Easter Bunny. It will be a “paws-itively” good time! Egg Hunts at 5:30 p.m. & 6 p.m.
APRIL 20TH
Cars and Coffee Anna TX
2205 W White St, Anna, TX 75409 | 8:00 AM
Come enjoy a morning along with other car enthusiasts! FREE coffee & donuts. All makes & models welcome! Got a small business? Set up a table for FREE
APRIL 26TH
Earth Day Celebration
Slayter Creek Park, 425 W Rosamond Parkway, Anna, TX 75409 | 10:00 AM
Celebrate Earth Day with crafts, education, and live animals! Event features: Household Hazardous Waste collection, Recycle and Reduce! Local non-profits will be onsite to receive donations, Presentations and Live Animal Demonstrations, Tie Dye Station: While supplies last.
APRIL 26TH
Household Hazardous Waste Drop Off Event
Slayter Creek Park, 425 W Rosamond Parkway Anna, TX 75409 | 10:00 AM
Gather up your household hazardous waste and drop it off at our collection event. This event is for Anna residents; proof of residency is required. Space is limited. The event is rain or shine. Staff will be on hand to help unload items.
Give some thought to this. Almost all US fruit and grain crops depend on pollination, yet our insect population has declined by 75% in the last 25 years - and most pollinators are insects. Fortunately, keeping pollinators (and our local farms) alive couldn’t be easier. Just get lazy about your lawn!
Lawns mowed every two weeks offer more food for pollinators than lawns mowed weekly. So, while you’re lounging on the couch every other Saturday, your longer grass will be supporting American food systems. As a bonus, longer lawns also need less water, so being lazy saves you money, too.
Perfect lawns are literally the empty calories of the ecosystem. By letting go of that green-carpet ideal, you’ll add color to your landscape by allowing dandelions, violets, and white clover to decorate your grass. More important, these “weeds” feed pollinators which, in turn, feed us.
Here’s one more way being lazy can save the world: skip the pesticides. Pesticides kill pollinators, and they’re hardly health food for humans, birds, and pets, either. In fact, research shows that when bees visit plants treated with neonicotinoids (a chemical in most pesticides), even small amounts can build up over time and kill the hive. Neonicotinoids disorient bees and disrupt their fertility. Worse, they can linger in plants and pollen for 2-4 years.
So be a hero. Stay in bed this weekend and stop fussing over your lawn.
For more information, visit www.fs.usda.gov/ treesearch/pubs/55816
ARTICLE BY ANDREA BUGBEE
