Protect their future TODAY
True love is planning for the future—even the one we can’t predict. This February, show your loved ones how much they mean to you with the ultimate gift: peace of mind.
Life insurance ensures that your family is protected, no matter what life brings. Let us help you create a plan that safeguards their dreams and honors your commitment.
Secure their tomorrow with a personalized life insurance plan. Call today to learn more and give your family the gift of lasting security.
LOVE DEEPLY. PLAN WISELY. BE IN GOOD HANDS.
LIFESTYLE LETTER
Local In Love
Our February issue is all about Love Local , a theme that resonates deeply with us. While we strive to highlight the love for our community every month, this issue feels especially meaningful. This February, we dive into the very heart of our community, exploring its roots and the people who make it thrive.
There are countless stories to share, but we’ve chosen a few that truly embody the spirit of love for our hometowns. We feature high school sweethearts who still call Anna home, proving that love for a place can last a lifetime. We also spotlight a local realtor and barber whose love story is intertwined with their commitment to the community they serve. Plus, a local florist offers expert tips on keeping your fresh-cut flowers vibrant for longer.
As you fill your home with flowers, chocolates, and other tokens of love, let’s not forget to show love to our surrounding communities. Shop local, support locally owned businesses, enjoy local brews, spend time at the local wineries, and dine at our beloved mom-and-pop restaurants.
By showing love to our local community, we not only support local businesses but also deepen our connection to the place we call home. Let’s continue to celebrate the love that makes our community unique!
Warm regards,
ANGIE TERRY, PUBLISHER @ANNACITYLIFESTYLE
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Angie Terry | angie.terry@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Shannon Roberts | shannon.roberts@citylifestyle.com
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Building Our Future: Comprehensive Plan Update for 2025
Sponsored by T Wilson
As our city continues to grow, it is vital that we plan thoughtfully for the future. The Comprehensive Plan serves as a blueprint for our community’s development, guiding decisions on land use, transportation, housing, and more. In 2025, we will revisit and revise this plan, and your input is key to ensuring it reflects the vision and priorities of all our neighbors. The process will begin in January with a joint feedback meeting between the Planning & Zoning Commission and City Council to review previous discussions. In February, an online survey will go live, offering neighbors an opportunity to provide input from the comfort of their homes. We’ll also host a community open house at Rattan Elementary School, where you can engage in meaningful conversations and contribute ideas at various interactive stations. Later that month, a second joint feedback meeting will review insights from the open house and survey.
In March, tentative public hearings with both the Planning & Zoning Commission and City Council will provide additional opportunities to share your thoughts on the proposed revisions.
The online survey, developed in alignment with the open house topics, will be accessible through the city’s website and shared via social media and newsletters. We encourage everyone to take part in this essential planning process by attending events, completing the survey, and staying informed as updates are shared.
This is your city, and your voice matters. Together, we can create a roadmap for a thriving and sustainable future. Keep an eye on our website and social media for updates and join us in shaping the next chapter of Anna’s story!
city scene
City Lifestyle National Conference 2: Anna Boys Wrestling Team 3: Anna Annual Tree Lighting 4: Anna High School Robotics Team 5: 2024 Grinch Gallop in Van Alstyne 6: 2024 Grinch Gallop in Van Alstyne
MELISSA GRESHAM
MELISSA GRESHAM
CITY OF ANNA
Lamin Foon | Anna HS
It is with great pleasure to announce Lamin Foon as the Outstanding Student-Athlete of the Month, as selected by the Anna Independent School District Athletic Coaching Team.
Lamin is currently an 11th-grade student with a strong passion for both academics and athletics. His favorite color is blue, which he finds calming and motivating. As a dedicated sports fan, Lamin is particularly inspired by the Los Angeles Lakers, whose commitment to excellence and teamwork resonates with him.
In the classroom, Lamin’s favorite subject is Algebra, where he enjoys the challenge of solving complex problems and finding efficient solutions. On the basketball court, he excels as a Power Forward and Center, positions he
has played since starting basketball in 8th grade. Lamin is also actively involved in the PALS (Peer Assistance and Leadership Skills) program, where he mentors and assists his peers.
Lamin has earned several academic honors, including the National Junior Honor Society Award before high school and the 2024 AHS Sassy Award for outstanding performance in his 10th-grade Geometry class. Lamin has set a goal of breaking the school record for most blocks in basketball before graduation. With plans to play basketball at the collegiate level and beyond, Lamin continues to strive for growth both as a student and an athlete.
Congratulations to Lamin and his selection as February Outstanding Student-Athlete of the Month!
Play, Laugh, Repeat: The Nugget Way
3 Nuggets Adventures in Anna aims to provide a vibrant, inclusive space for children to explore their imagination, build friendships, and enjoy exciting adventures. Focused on safety and enrichment, it offers families a stimulating environment that fosters creativity and learning while giving parents a peaceful space to relax and observe!
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You’re The Boba To My Tea
Boba & Bites in Anna offers a variety of bubble teas and tasty snacks, perfect for any craving. From classic milk teas to fruity infusions and creative boba blends, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy delicious snacks paired with your drink for a relaxing and flavorful experience!
Ready To Relax and Unwind
The Railyard Taproom in Van Alstyne provides a cozy atmosphere for craft beer enthusiasts. Enjoy local brews on tap, live music, and catch your favorite sports on 8 big-screen TVs. It’s the perfect spot to relax, sip craft beer, and enjoy great entertainment in a friendly setting!
HIGH SCHOOL SWEETHEARTS Hometown
Local Lasting Love
February is the month we celebrate LOVE . Let’s consider some interesting statistics for love.
• Approximately 60% of adults believe in love at first sight.
• 48% of men fall in love at first sight.
• Most people decide if there is a physical attraction within the first 3 seconds of meeting them.
• The average age for first marriages has been increasing, with many men marrying around 30 and women around 28.
• Couples who date for three years or more before getting engaged tend to have stronger and more stable marriages.
• Around 30% of US adults have used online dating sites or apps, with 12% reporting that they have met a spouse or long-term partner through these platforms.
• Couples that express affection through physical touch often have higher satisfaction levels in their relationships and less stress.
• Around 80% of individuals believe in the importance of small romantic gestures for maintaining a relationship.
Determining whether “the one” is the person one is currently with is a complex and deeply personal journey. Having a partner may or may not be for you, but these three couples found young, ever-lasting love while attending school locally. They went on to marry and raise families in Anna.
Shannon Owens & Courtney (Ashley) Owens
Shannon Owens and Courtney (Ashley) Owens began dating in August 1995, when Courtney was 17 and Shannon was 20. They met in high school, where a mutual friend thought they would make a perfect match. Shannon, who had moved to Anna before 8th grade, was new to the area, while Courtney was a 3rd-generation local. After five years of dating, they married on October 14, 2000. In 2002, they built their home in Anna, and in November 2006, welcomed their son. Their son will be the 4th generation to graduate from AHS in 2025. They celebrated 24 years of marriage in 2024!
ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS
Paul Lawrence & Vickie (Turner) Lawrence
Paul Lawrence, a 1989 AHS graduate, and Vickie (Turner) Lawrence, a 1991 graduate, had their first date in 1989 at the Blue Ridge Rodeo. They met in high school when her friend asked her to deliver a note to Paul and it backfired. After 3 years of dating, the two married on September 5, 1992, in the Lawrence family home. They have two sons, Preston, a 2015 AHS graduate, and Bryson, a 2020 Van Alstyne graduate. They also have a grandson, Kase, who is 2 years old, and a daughter in love, Alyssa. These local high school sweethearts never dreamed that 32 years later they would still be living in Anna and doing what they love…family farming together!
Timothy “Dooley” Wortham & Tammy Jo (York) Wortham
Timothy “Dooley” Wortham and Tammy Jo (York) Wortham’s roots run deep in Anna. They were friends long before dating at sixteen, with their families sharing a history of friendship and Anna High School ties. Their early romance resembled a Hallmark movie—Tammy was Homecoming Queen, and Dooley was Football Captain. In December 1975, Dooley gave Tammy a promise ring, and they began saving for their future. After graduation and college, they married on January 14, 1978. Together, they built a home, raised two children, and later welcomed five grandsons. Now retired at 66, Dooley and Tammy are still deeply in love and celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary last month!
ARTICLE BY ANGIE TERRY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANNON ROBERTS
BLENDING FAMILY, COMMUNITY, AND BUSINESS IN ANNA
BUILDING LOVE LOCALLY
Candice Tate and Chuck O’Neal’s love story began in an unexpected and unconventional way in 2014. Unlike many modern couples, their paths crossed through a unique social platform where people could connect over shared interests like shoes,
“CANDICE
to blend their lives and families. Both Candice and Chuck had children from previous relationships, which brought new challenges but also incredible joy. Their blended family was an enriching experience that taught them about the power of patience, love, and the
IS COMMITTED TO HELPING CLIENTS FIND THEIR PERFECT HOME”
travel, and sports. Although the platform wasn’t designed for romance, it became the perfect space to connect. They began talking on the phone for hours, sharing stories, and building a bond that felt natural and effortless. Although they lived in different places, their connection only grew stronger over time. After months of conversations, they finally decided to meet in person. They chose to keep it simple and went on a movie date to see Let’s Be Cops . What began as a casual outing to review a movie soon became an opportunity to bond, laugh, and learn more about each other in person.
From that moment on, they realized they were destined for something deeper and were inseparable. They spent more time together, and as their relationship blossomed, they began
importance of making sure every member feels valued. They worked hard to create a balanced, supportive environment, where their children could thrive. While it wasn’t always easy, their dedication to each other and their kids strengthened over time, forging a deep bond built on trust and mutual respect. Together, Candice and Chuck traveled with their children, exploring new cities, trying new foods, and embracing the experiences that life offered. Whether they were sightseeing or enjoying a family meal at a local restaurant, every moment was an opportunity to learn, grow, and make memories that would last a lifetime. Their approach to life was simple but profound: to teach their children the value of embracing every experience, big or small, and to cherish the lessons that come with each adventure.
CONTINUED >
Their commitment to family and love was equally matched by their dedication to their community. Both of them are passionate about giving back and making a difference in the place they call home. Candice, the owner of Candice Tate Realty, and Chuck, the owner of Occam’s Razor Barber Shop in Anna, have made supporting their local community a priority. For several years, they’ve actively participated in Anna’s Back to School events, where they provide free haircuts to local kids and distribute school supplies. Helping kids feel confident and prepared for the first day of school is something Candice and Chuck hold dear, and it’s one of the many ways they give back.
They are also strong advocates for shopping locally and supporting other small businesses in Anna. They’re always eager to connect people with local businesses, whether it’s recommending a service or a favorite restaurant. They firmly believe that the success of a community is tied to the success of its small businesses, and they strive to contribute to the local economy by spending their own money at businesses like Spark Life Chiropractic, 4th Quarter Kitchen, Hollis BBQ, and Anna Express Tacos, to name a few. For Candice and Chuck, shopping locally is a way of supporting the people who make their community unique and vibrant.
“CHUCK IS SUPPORTING COMMUNITY GROWTH, ONE HAIRCUT AT A TIME”
Since making Anna their home in 2017, they have watched the town evolve and grow, and they’ve been thrilled to be part of its transformation. The sense of community in Anna has only strengthened over the years, and they’re excited about what the future holds for their family and the town itself. The connections they’ve made with customers, friends, and fellow business owners have enriched their lives in ways they never anticipated. They are proud of the impact their businesses have had on the community, and they look forward to continuing to serve and contribute in meaningful ways. Small business owners are the individuals who pour their hearts and souls into their businesses, creating the unique fabric of the community. Through their work and their love for the town, they’re helping to shape a future where family, community, and local businesses continue to thrive!
LOVE POTION #9
ANNA BARNES
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
A PINK COCKTAIL PERFECT FOR CELEBRATING VALENTINE’S DAY
WHO NEEDS FLOWERS AND CHOCOLATE WHEN YOU CAN HAVE FLOWERS AND COCKTAILS?
This Valentine's Day, whether you plan to treat a loved one, treat your girlfriends, or treat yourself, I can promise you'll want to serve up this perfectly pink cocktail; one I like to call Love Potion #9. It looks as fabulous as it tastes. You can't beat the bright, fresh grapefruit juice and the bubbles add a lively kiss on top. Each sip is dreamier than the next. Cheers, here's to love!
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
• 1.5 oz rosé
• 5 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 5 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
• 3 oz bubbles (champagne or sparkling wine)
THE HOW-TO:
1. Pour the rosé, simple syrup, egg white, and grapefruit juice into an ice-filled shaker.
2. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds, until chilled.
3. Pour into a coupe glass using the strainer.
4. Top with champagne or sparkling wine.
5. Garnish with edible flowers and grapefruit peel.
6. Enjoy!
FRESHLY CUT STEMS
ARTICLE BY ANGIE TERRY
SIMPLE TIPS TO KEEP YOUR FRESH-CUT FLOWERS VIBRANT AND LASTING LONGER
Jennifer Hadfield is the owner of Freshly Cut Stems, a cut flower farm in Van Alstyne, dedicated to providing locally grown flowers. Specializing in a variety of flowers, from zinnias to sunflowers, each bloom is hand-picked at peak beauty for maximum freshness and longevity. Committed to sustainable farming and responsible land management, Jennifer offers services like U-Pick events, a Stem Bar, DIY buckets, custom bouquets, flower delivery, workshops, event flowers, and seasonal arrangements. Jennifer shares tips on how to make your fresh-cut flowers last longer.
TRIM THE STEMS AT AN ANGLE
Cut stems at a 45-degree angle to enhance water absorption. Use sharp, clean scissors to avoid damaging stems, trimming about an inch every few days. For woody stems, like roses, make a longer angled cut to maximize hydration. This simple technique helps keep your flowers fresh, vibrant, and lasting longer, ensuring they stay beautiful in the vase.
USE CLEAN WATER AND REMOVE FOLIAGE
Change the water daily to prevent bacterial growth, which can shorten flower life. Clean the vase with warm soapy water to remove harmful residue. Trim any leaves below the waterline to avoid rotting, which can introduce bacteria. These simple steps help maintain a clean environment, keeping your flowers fresh and extending their longevity. Regular care ensures your blooms stay vibrant and beautiful for as long as possible.
KEEP FLOWERS AWAY FROM HEAT AND DRAFTS
Place your flowers in a cool spot, away from direct sunlight, heaters, and air conditioning vents. Excessive heat can cause blooms to wilt, while drafts dry out petals. Maintaining a consistent, moderate temperature will help your flowers stay fresh and vibrant for a longer time. A stable environment ensures they remain beautiful and last as long as possible, adding elegance to your space.
02
03 04
AVOID PLACING FLOWERS NEAR RIPENING
FRUIT
Ripening fruit releases ethylene gas, which accelerates flower wilting. To preserve your arrangement, store flowers in a separate area, away from fruit bowls or kitchen counters. This simple change can greatly extend the life of your blooms, ensuring they remain fresh and vibrant for a longer period. By keeping flowers and fruits apart, you can maintain the beauty of your arrangement and enjoy it for days.
A SALAD REC IPE TO LOV E
A GORGEOUS, FRESH AND SIMPLE DISH
PEAR, PROSCIUTTO,
Burrata Salad
INGREDIENTS
• Ripe Pear
• Prosciutto
• Burrata
• Lemon Zest
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Dried Figs
• Red Pepper Flakes
DIRECTIONS
1. Slice the ripe pear into thin slices.
2. Arrange pear slices on a plate, creating a base for the salad.
3. Nestle slices of prosciutto in-between pear slices, a perfect combo of sweet and savory.
4. Tear the burrata into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the salad adding a velvety creaminess to the ensemble.
5. Grate fresh lemon zest over the entire salad, infusing it with citrus flavor.
6. Top with fresh basil, figs and pepper flakes.
7. Finish by generously drizzling extra virgin olive oil over the salad, creating a silky texture that ties it all together.
TO MY
Valentine
ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Create timeless keepsakes for those you love with this easy DIY Valentine Stationary. There is something special and reminiscent of our earlier years of creating homemade valentines for those special in our lives. While stores are filled with Valentine candy, cards and gifts, the thoughtfulness and time put into to a handmade card holds a different meaning. Words are the things we treasure most, so let those you care about most know how you treasure them this Valentine’s Day.
What you will need
• Kitchen Knife
• Red or Russet Potato (for heart)
• Romaine lettuce (for rose)
• Acrylic Paint
• Paint Brush
• Blank Envelopes
• Blank Cards
• Heart Template (SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIY-stationery)
• Hand Lettering Template (SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIY-stationery)
• Light Box
Instructions for Heart Prints
1. Cut the potato in half. Using a small knife, carefully carve a heart shape onto the flat side of the potato. Carve freestyle or use the free template under “DIY Stationery” on the blog at silvertoothhome.com/ blog/diy-stationery. Even when using the template, each carving will come out as unique art like the ones you see here.
2. With a paint brush, apply paint to the heart shape on the potato.
3. Stamp the potato heart onto blank stationery.
4. Set aside until completely dry.
Instructions for Rose Prints
1. Cut the end off of romaine lettuce. Set leaves aside and use the stem.
2. Using a paintbrush, apply paint to the lettuce stem.
3. Stamp the lettuce “rose” onto blank stationery.
4. Set aside until completely dry.
Once your stationery is completely dry it is time to add beautiful Valentine’s Day lettering. If you have beautiful handwriting then draw free hand. If you’re not as confident use a light box and my hand lettering template (found on the blog at SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIYstationery) to transfer lettering onto the stationery. To do this, first lay the hand lettering template on a light box with the stationery on top. Then trace the hand lettering onto the stationery with a pen or marker of choice.
FEBRUARY 7TH
Love Notes Watercolor Postcards
Municipal Complex, 120 W. 7th St., Anna, TX 75409 | 6:00 PM
Learn some fun watercolor techniques while creating cute, watercolor postcards to send to loved ones. Supplies and postage included. Adults 18+
Cost: $12
https://www.annatexas.gov/Calendar
FEBRUARY 8TH
Pop-Up Recreation: Meet Our Local Heroes, Anna Police Department
Anna Municipal Complex, 120 W. 7th St Anna, TX 75409 | 10:00 AM
Meet your Anna Police! Learn about their equipment and see and hear the police cars. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times during the program.
FREE, Registration Required
FEBRUARY 13TH
Adults 50+ Trip - International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame
Municipal Complex, 120 W. 7th St., Anna, TX 75409 | 9:00 AM
Did you know there is a bowling museum in Arlington? Innovations of bowling are displayed through life-sized replicas, touch-screen kiosks, film montages and interactive games.
Registration Required
Cost: $8
https://www.annatexas.gov/Calendar
FEBRUARY 15TH
Classic Rock covered by Group Therapy / Texas Wine
Barn Hill Vineyards, 11917 County Road 509 Anna, TX 75409 | 7:30 PM
LIVE MUSIC with Group Therapy covering your favorite hits from bands including Night Ranger, Foreigner, 38 Special, REO Speedwagon, INXS, The Black Crowes, Bryan Adams, The Cars, The Eagles, and more! Visit: https://www.barnhillvineyards.com/ for details Want
MOVIES
we love
WHETHER YOU’RE FEELING THE LOVE OR FLYING SOLO
ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS
These films make for great viewing on Valentine’s Day whether you’re cuddling up with a partner, enjoying a girls’ night in, or just looking for some heartwarming, stories to celebrate love in all its forms.
ROMANTIC COMEDIES
1. When Harry Met Sally... (1989) - A classic tale exploring whether men and women can ever just be friends.
2. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) - A modern adaptation of Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew” set in a high school.
3. Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011) - A story of love and relationships featuring an ensemble cast and intertwining storylines.
4. Notting Hill (1999) - A charming romance about a bookstore owner who falls for a famous actress.
5. Love Actually (2003) - A feel-good ensemble film that explores different facets of love during the Christmas season, but perfect for Valentine’s Day too.
ROMANTIC DRAMAS
6. The Notebook (2004) - A poignant love story spanning decades, based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks.
7. A Walk to Remember (2002) - Another Nicholas Sparks adaptation, featuring themes of love, redemption, and personal growth.
ANIMATED FILMS
8. Up (2009) - Begins with a touching love story before delving into an adventure, making it both heartwarming and inspiring.
9. Wall-E (2008) - A love story between two robots in a post-apocalyptic world that emphasizes care for the environment.
MODERN FAVORITES
10. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018) - A charming teen romance based on the popular book series.
11. The Proposal (2009) - A hilarious story about a Canadian editor who convinces her assistant to marry her to avoid deportation.
FEEL GOOD PICKS
12. Valentine’s Day (2010) - An ensemble romantic comedy showcasing various love stories intersecting on Valentine’s Day.
13. The Big Sick (2017) - A rich, real-life inspired love story that explores cultural differences and personal anxieties.
