Anna Living Magazine Issue 10

VOLUME 2, ISSUE 10

CONTENTS 3

VOLUME 2, ISSUE 10

AHS gets new Athletic Director for 2021-22

As many as 15 new coaches have come to AHS for the 2021-22 school year.

Meet the new athletic director Seth Parr.

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Jared Rupe earns Dave Campbell Impactful Leadership Award

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Scenes from Friday Night Football

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Rupe earned the recognition by doing things he thought everyone was supposed to do — being respectful and caring about the people around him.

Capturing the special sights of high school football and all that goes with it from the band to the student athletic trainers and cheerleaders is a special honor. This year we have the new homecoming queen and king.

Anna Firefighters Mark 911 20th Anniversary

The Anna Fire Department together with the Anna Police Department hosted a memorial for the 20th anniversary of September 11 with a short ceremony with speeches and pageantry.

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IN EVERY ISSUE 4

A BIT OF ANNA HISTORY

24 ALL ABOUT THE YARD

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ANNA NEWS

26 IN THE KITCHEN

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BEHIND THE BADGE

28 MOVIE REVIEWS

10 WORDS OF INSPIRATION

ABOUT THE COVER. The Anna High School Athletics Department has undergone a huge change with as many as 15 new coaches for 2021-22. On the cover along with the new Athletic Director Seth Parr is pictured those new coaches along with their families.

Following is a list (in no particular order) of all the new families: Seth and Ann Parr with Autumn and Danika; Efrain, Melissa, Zoey, and Daniel Ramos; Wilson and Lizzy Rigg; Victor and Miranda Rodriguez ; Stanton and Sydney Holland; Klay, Jessica, Kyle, and Josie Keith; Justin, Toni, Daylan and Gatlin Price; Drew and Courtney Cunnigham; Micheal Guerrero and Christina Frick; Kyle, Angela, and Dylan Stevens; Ryan, Nicole, and Caleb Porter; Andrew, Sarah, Leila, and Nolan Hightower; Kolbie Banks; Kyle Legg; Bryson and Danika Breeding.

from the

EDITOR W

ho knew photography could be a contact sport. It was a rude awakening for this writer while taking action football shots of Anna players from the sidelines in Argyle a few weeks ago. I had my telephoto lens trained on players on the field and the next thing I knew, I was in the air and sinking fast — to the ground. Apparently one of the referees was running down the sideline to stay up with the play. He was watching the ball and probably didn’t realize he was running in the space the refs want photographers to be in. I couldn’t see him coming because I was looking through my camera. He hit me hard. For a few minutes I didn’t know what had happened.

We don’t need to go into gory details, but the results are, broken lens (that hurt the most), broken nose and broken finger on the hand I would normally use to push the shutter button. Typing for this magazine is now a challenge.

Members of the AHS football staff were wonderful. Athletic Trainer Brittany Fredrick sprang into action along with her student trainers. Athletic parents should take comfort knowing she is taking care of their kids. Head Coach Seth Parr took the time to call my husband Billy Wayne to tell him what happened. He even followed that up later to let him know what hospital I went to. Coach Parr and wife Ann collected my photography equipment and brought it back to Anna.

It was a tough experience made bearable by the folks on the sidelines for AHS. In between CT scan and X-ray, Billy Wayne texted the following: “Grandma did not get run over by a reindeer — it was a Referee.” I think I’m going to put that on a T-shirt.

Go Coyotes!!!

In this issue, be sure to read Uncle Spider’s Adventures. It’s hysterical and should be good for at least a few belly laughs.

We also have a story in our Behind the Badge series about Anna’s Assistant Chief of Police who’s been on the job several months now as well as a feature on an AHS student who earned a special award.

We hope you are enjoying the magazine.

PUBLISHER

Joyce Godwin EDITOR

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Jessica Larriviere, Amy Jukes, Bill Dumas, Joyce Godwin PHOTOGRAPHERS

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Open Look Business Solutions DIRECTOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND SPECIAL EVENTS

Amy Jukes 805-501-1648 amy@annalivingmagazine.com DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

Jessica Larriviere 469-748-7848 Jessica@annalivingmagazine.com DIRECTOR OF SALES

Bill Dumas 241-604-4262 Dumas.bill3@gmail.com CONTRIBUTORS

Don Eldredge, Claude Webb, Jimmie Gibson, Rev. Dallen Morgan

SPECIAL THANKS

Melane Woodbury of the Anna Independent School District FOR ADVERTISING QUESTIONS OR EDITORIAL REQUESTS Please email joyce@annalivingmagazine.com MANAGING OWNER Joyce Godwin 903-815-0044

Let us hear from you as we try to improve with each issue.

P.O. Box 94, Anna, Texas 75409

Pictured are the new coaches along with their families. Following is a list (in no particular order) of all the new families: Seth and Ann Parr with Autumn and Danika; Efrain, Melissa, Zoey, and Daniel Ramos; Wilson and Lizzy Rigg; Victor and Miranda Rodriguez ; Stanton and Sydney Holland; Klay, Jessica, Kyle, and Josie Keith; Justin, Toni, Daylan and Gatlin Price; Drew and Courtney Cunnigham; Micheal Guerrero and Christina Frick; Kyle, Angela, and Dylan Stevens; Ryan, Nicole, and Caleb Porter; Andrew, Sarah, Leila, and Nolan Hightower; Kolbie Banks; Kyle Legg; Bryson and Danika Breeding.

It’s a new season for Anna Coyotes Story and photos by Joyce Godwin

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new head coach is leading the Coyotes this season, and not only the head coach position has changed, but as many as 15 coaches have come on board this year with the new athletic director Seth Parr.

He joined the pack at Coyote Nation in January after resigning a position at Coronado High School in Lubbock. He said he had a good feeling about the Anna program after visiting and meeting the people involved.

“You always want to work with people who have the same vision as you,” Parr said.

“They are wanting to do what it takes to have a successful program. You have to look at it to see where we are going.” He said he saw the district as really challenging.

“I just feel that when you are competing, you want to be the best,” he said. “This district has three teams in the top 10.” He was referring to Kaufman, Argyle and Melissa. It is a very tough district. “We need to try to be the best and the way you get there is to put out the effort,” Parr said. “Be passionate. Do the best I can do every day.”

One of the coaches who came to Anna with Parr is Efrain Ramos. Parr says they have been together since the third grade. “He is a great coach and my best friend,” Parr said. “My dad hired him and this is our 33rd year [coaching]

together. He has been a big part of my life.”

Parr’s dad, Steve Parr, received a variety of accolades and set records during his high school coaching career.

When asked if they have been together long enough to tell what Parr is thinking, Ramos said, nobody could do that. But Parr said with a teasing smile, he can always tell what Ramos is thinking. The two friends recently marked their 100th win together.

In regard to women’s sports, Parr is just as serious. “We hired coaches that are like minded as me. I want them to coach as hard as I do,” he said. “We have to get where we expect to win.” Parr mentioned that he has two daughters and he wants to see them grow up in a strong athletic and academic programs.

Parr also wants to see the high school athletes active in the community. “They need to learn how to be somebody in the community and have direction,” he said. “We have to learn to shake the hands and tell people thank you for coming out and supporting us. Influencing the younger kids is important.”

Parr said he remembers an experience he had as a young child. “I always hung around my dad’s kids and there was one player I really looked up to,” he said. “But when I heard him talking about drinking, I was devastated.” He said he knows first hand how important it is for Anna Living Magazine

athletes to show good character.

After learning that Parr was accepting the position in Anna, Pete Christy, sports director for KCBD news channel in Lubbock, wrote on Twitter, “Parr was more than sensational with the Mustangs going 59-24 in his seven seasons.

I wish Coach Parr and his family the best and say THANK YOU for all he did to make that program one of the best in the state. If you are from Anna, you guys should be super excited!!”

Seth and Ann Parr in the coach’s office.

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Highland Community Compiled for AAHPS by Janet Smith, April, 2018.

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Corner Post of Uncle Charlie Wysong's Blacksmith Shop All that remains of the Highland community is this corner post from Uncle Charlie Wysong's blacksmith shop and Highland Cemetery. From 1851-1884, the Wysong blacksmith shop was located on the Wysong's "Old Highland Farm" a "Texas Century Farm". Tornados hit the area twice but the shop was rebuilt, Marian Gibson Wysong, the last Wysong family member to live on the farm selfom missed an opportunity to educate anyone about the significance of the post: The corner post stood as a reminder of what happened there.

The blacksmith shop was the first post office north of McKinney and in operation from 1853-1872 and put an end to freighting from Jefferson.

In January 2010, with development coming and the expected construction of the Outer Loop, permission was obtained from Collin County and the corner post was moved to Highland Cemetery for preservation. When the post was moved, care was taken to orient it as it was originally and to keep the depth as accurate as possible.

During removal of the post, artifacts from the blacksmith shop were discovered that instigated an archaeological dig. Approval for the dig was obtained from Collin County officials and numerous additional artifacts from the blacksmith shop were excavated under the guidance of Page Thomas, Collin County blacksmith. (2013) Marker Property of te Collin County Historical Commission

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bout two miles north of Melissa there was an old stagecoach stop called Highland. The stage line ran from McKinney to Bonham. Charles H. Wysong was the first settler in the vicinity of Highland. Wysong came to Collin County in 1850 and served as a blacksmith, wagon maker, farmer, and postmaster in Highland.

Wysong was the father of Dr. Walter Wysong, the noted surgeon of McKinney, (Manuscript is from the archives of Captain Roy F. Hall, McKinney, Texas.)

Charles Hopkins Wysong, was born in Franklin County, Virginia, the son of Jacob and Mary Hopkins Wysong. Four children were born to this union. Charles H., the third child, was reared on his father’s farm and early learned the art of a tanner’s trade.

He was also a blacksmith and a wheelwright who became famous for his Bois d’Arc wagons that were much in demand among the freighters. In 1846 he moved to Missouri and 1849 came to Texas to settle. He was first married in Missouri to Sarah M. Foster, daughter of James Foster of Virginia, and to this union were born four children, two dying in infancy. Theresa and James H. survived.

Sarah died soon after coming to Texas April 29, 1850. On September 27, 1866 he married Elizabeth R. Slaughter daughter of James Slaughter, a native of Kentucky and a descendant of Captain James Slaughhter, a Revolutionary War veteran. To them were born the following children: Anna M., Charles L., Louis W., Mary L., Hampton S., Alice M. and Walter Scott.

At the beginning of the Civil War, Charles H. Wysong was a member of the State Militia and was appointed by the confederacy to be chairman of a group of prosperous farmers whose purpose was to keep the troops fed and the war widows and their children fed also. His assignment was to design and make machinery that could be used in Collin County farms to replace the manpower that the war effort had taken away. When the Conscript Act was amended to take in men 45 and over, he joined the Confederate Army and was a part of Burnett’s Battalion for the duration of the war and was serving in the Houston area when the war ended.

Anna Living Magazine

He came home from the war and he and his brothers-in-law, I.N. and James H. Foster, reopened the blacksmith shop and continued to supply the freighters with wagons until the coming of the railroad in 1872 put an end to the freighting from Jefferson, Texas.

When Highland became the first post office north of McKinney, he was appointed postmaster. He also served Collin County as a County Commissioner, a Justice of the Peace, and as the County Tax Assessor-Collector. In politics he was an old-line Whig, and was an active supporter of such men as Horace Greeley, William Henry Harrison, and Henry Clay. He was a Baptist by faith, and was high in Masonic circles. He organized more Masonic Lodges than any other individual in the state of Texas, and held many offices.

Dr. Walter Scott Wysong, the youngest son of Charles H. and Elizabeth became one of the most prominent surgeons in the Southwest. In 1930 Dr. Wysong built and equipped one of the finest clinics in the Southwest and in 1961, a sixty-five-bed hospital was added to the medical center. Dr. Walter Scott, always the chief, and his three sons, Scott, Dudley and Charles, operated the clinic and hospital alone until the patient load necessitated the addition of other physicians to the staff.

A Historical Marker was granted in 1985 for the Highland Community “The Highland community was established in the mid-1800s as a stop on the stage route between Buckner (approximate three miles west of the present site of McKinney) and Bonham. An early settler Charles H, Wysong, donated three acres of land for a community church, school and cemetery in 1858. The first marked grave, that of Robert Strother, is dated 1861. Many north central Collin County pioneers and their descendants are buried here.

The graveyard is cared for by the Highland Cemetery Association, organized more than one hundred years ago. (1985)” The following is reproduced exactly as written by MRS. T.A. PARIS (Nee Laura E. Strother)

“1871, I went to school here in an old frame house about 20 by 30 feet, dirt floor with straw on it, located about half way between the present towns of Anna and Melissa, and about one-half mile west of Highway 75 and near the old home of Uncle Charley Wysong, Father of Dr. W.S. Wysong of McKinney, and Hamp Wysong of Melissa. Got water from spring, plank benches, no backs, no desks, Miss Nannie Lewellen taught two terms; J.R. Roger three or four terms.

1866, or near that time, there was a Post Office at the home of Thaddeus Parris father of my husband, T.A. Parris, deceased. Miss Elizabeth Parris was Post Mistress. Stage from Bonham to Dallas carried the mail (with) two horses. I would ride on the stage from my home to my grandmother, Mrs. Buster, who lived between Kentuckytown and Pilot Grove in Grayson County, We then lived a mile south of the present town of Anna. The stage stopped at Crit Riffe’s about four miles east of Anna, about where Rosemond Chapel now is The whole neighborhood around where we lived was called HIGHLAND because the lands are elevated so much. I would get on the stage at our house. Mr. Matt Slaughter, father of Mrs. (?) M. Shirley, drove the stage, and he would stop and let me on. I was a very small child, Thaddeus Parris also built an ox tread, incline wheel corn and wheat mill, and a wool carding mill at old Highland.”

Laura E. Strother Parris was born in 1860 and died in 1941, age 81. Laura married Theodore Augustus Parris (1856-1930) in 1880 at the age of 20. Parents were W.G. Strother and Elizabeth Brister. Both are buried in Westland Memorial Park, Dallas (Find A Grave Memorial).

Another interesting writing from MRS MATHEW SLAUGHTER (Nee Miss Mary Graves). Reproduced with minor changes.

“1862 till the close of Civil War, my husband drove the stage from Bonham to McKinney.

There was a stop at Crit Riffe’s residence, near where Rosemond Chapel now is, and people got on and off the stage here, and took dinner here. There was another stop where the Jesse Orenduff old home stand on west side of Highway between McKinney and Melissa, about half way. People also took meals here, think the stage going south ate here, am not sure, and at Crit Riffe’s going north. The one my husband drove was pulled by four black horses” “Jesse Slaughter (Matthew’s brother) who lives about one and one-half miles south of the present Anna had a fine black mare

stolen about 1862 or 1863 and about 1865 he found her. It was located about one and one half (mile) north of Melissa, and east of the Highway and west of the H & T C RR, and a short distance north of the present home of S.H. Parris which was originally the home of Dr. Alvin Lacy who was a practicing physician as was Dr. W.D. Lair, and they were the first doctors in that community. Miss Jennie taught three or four terms. She was a sister-in-law to Uncle Charly Wysong. Cary Gates also taught three or four terms. George Portman taught there later.”

“1858, or near that time, the Methodists, Baptists, Christians, and Presbyterians built a church together which all used. Land was donated by Uncle Charly Wysong, who also gave land for a grave yard at the same place. It was a frame building, and the war broke out before it was completed. As I now remember it, each denomination had a certain Sunday in each month to hold services, but everybody went to all the services. After preaching, one family would go home with another for dinner, and return to the church at early candle lighting which was the way to make the hour known when services would begin, served as a time piece which few people had. Small children would sometimes go to sleep during the services, and then would be taken out to the wagon and laid in the wagon bed and left there till all got ready to go home; then, sometimes, a pallet would be made on the floor of the church, in the aisles, and the child put on that.

Many great spiritual sermons were preached there by such men as George S. Gatewood, Methodist; T.E. McCombs, Baptist; S.H. Wilkins, Presbyterian; Ben J. Hall and Brice Wilmeth, Christians. It seems to me now that I can hear them singing ‘Oh, happy day that fixed my choice On Thee, my Savior and my God’ 1865, after the close of the Civil War, this church was made into two rooms by means of a partition, and converted into a school house.

The Baptists built a church about one mile south of Anna, but the railroad came Anna was established and this was abandoned.

1866, this old Union church which had been made into a school house, had school, Mrs. Nannie Lewellen assisted by Miss Alice Spears taught. Next was Mrs. Lizzie Spears (nee Slaughter) assisted by her daughter Miss Alice.

Next was J.R. Rogers and I assisted him, having graduated from Mantua Seminary taught by Capt. J.L. Greer 1870. We taught two terms, and I married in 1870 and quit teaching. In Anna Living Magazine

those days we had cedar water buckets with ………”

Mary Elizabeth Graves Slaughter was born July 12, 1852 and died December 26, 1932 age 80. She married ( James) Matthew Slaughter (1846-1877, age 31) on February 2, 1871 in Collin County. They had two children; Iva M. And James Matthew. (Find A Grave Memorial).

REFERENCE: 1Capt. Roy R. Hall and Helen Gibbard Hall; “Pioneering in North Texas” RESOURCES Collin County Historical Commission Cruise III Parris, Mrs. T.A. Her memories Slaughter, Mrs. Mathew, Her memories

This story is reprinted here with permission from the Anna Area Historical Preservation Society.

“The Spark that Ignited the Town of Anna” is a wonderful effort on behalf of the historical society that includes the stories of Anna’s leading families and efforts through the years. Anyone who may have had a curiosity about how things have happened in Anna, will likely find answers in this book. Families and descendants have shared their stories and pictures of early Anna and the result is spellbinding. The book may be found online at www.amazon.com or by contacting the historical society whose website is http://aahps.org.

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To find regular updates about Anna’s government, visit the website at www.annatexas.gov.

New $800 M Mixed-use Development Planned for Anna 2.3-acre lagoon and water park included in project Story and photos from city of Anna website

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NNA, Texas (Oct. 13, 2021) – During Tuesday’s regular city council meeting, the Anna City Council approved a Development Agreement with Megatel for the Anacapri Project. The project is estimated to cost $800 million. It includes 1,239 single-family units, 600 multi-family units, a 2.3-acre crystal lagoon, two sand beaches—one public and one private—a Flow Rider surf simulator, swim-up bar, kids play area, a water slide, 30,000 square foot commercial entertainment building and other amenities.

The Anacapri will be located immediately west of Anna High School beside the upcoming extension of Rosamond Parkway and Ferguson Parkway. To assist with the infrastructure costs related to the development, the City of Anna will create a Public Improvement District and 6

Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone to reimburse costs.

The City will receive more than $2.1 million in Public Improvement District (PID) fees and 65 percent of sales/use taxes on construction materials. Additionally, the Anna Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and Community Development Corporation (CDC) will each receive .50 cents per ticket sold to enter the Lagoon area.

“I am excited for the impact of this project and look forward to seeing it come to fruition,” said Mayor Nate Pike. “This is a game-changer for Anna and provides several unique activities for Anna neighbors.”

Construction on the project is expected to commence in the next 3-4 months.

Anna Living Magazine

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Foxall Eight Months on Board at

Anna Police Department

By Joyce Godwin

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etting in on the ground floor of a growing, active police department striving for excellence was an irresistible draw for Phillip Foxall who currently serves the city of Anna as its assistant police chief.

Foxall came to Anna from Farmers Branch PD, the same department that Chief Dean Habel came from in November. He has 24 years of experience in patrol, criminal investigations and narcotics with Farmers Branch. He said he enjoyed woking there, but the option to grow with a relatively young agency encouraged him to move.

He said he worked years with Chief Habel. “He was my boss at a couple stages in my career,” Foxall said. “I know he is hardworking and cares about his staff and the residents, and that’s the kind I want to work with.” He added that Chief Habel is the best the city of Anna could have chosen.

“We have one goal — to provide great service to the residents of Anna,” Foxall said.

“People here are so nice. I am truly, every day, blown away by the city of Anna. Neighbors we deal with are just so kind to the police department — constantly calling and complimenting our officers. This is a great place to work and I’m excited to be a part of it.”

Looking ahead to the future of Anna and its police department, Foxall mentions changes, related to the current capacity to provide law enforcement services.

“I came into a police department that was very, very professional, intelligent and with good officers,” Foxall said.

“Our challenge is going to be hiring people who still have that work ethic and drive to match the people we have here.

We have a really good police department.”

Foxall is a graduate of the FBI National Academy for police executives and holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Missouri. He’s been married to his wife for 15 years and has two step-sons.

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Anna Living Magazine

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ur family moved here, January of 2021. School had already started, and the pandemic still had most activities on lock down. And then the “big freeze” happened. Oh, it was a lovely time to be settling into a new house and a new town.

But alas, out of the bumps of the first month or so, we began to see a real engagement with community. One of our prayers entering this new season of life, was that we would meet lifelong friends, all of us!

Of course, we didn’t expect this to happen overnight, but it did happen rather quickly.

The first place we began to see relationships form, was out at the baseball fields. My son was ready to play spring ball and I “encouraged” my husband to help coach. At first, he argued against this volunteer opportunity. He was too busy with work and home life. He had no extra time. This should sound familiar to many of you! But eventually he decided he would assist where he could. That ended up being at almost all practices and games. His passion for helping coach and building relationships with other coaches began to take higher priority over all the reasons he was “too busy” in the beginning.

I myself found ways to slowly connect. And although it was an unconventional avenue, I decided to sign up as a substitute for Anna ISD part time. I already worked as a pastor, but I thought this would be a great way to meet new people. When I began I was incredibly nervous, wondering would I fit into the culture of teachers and education. Now, I feel like part of the school, getting to know students and staff.

All of us, our children included, have, in a short period of time, come to know so many of our neighbors and create deep friendships.

So why is this important? Community is what allows us to experience joy and happiness. It allows us to look beyond ourselves and feel connected for a higher purpose. Community also is our support when things get hard.

Think about how many people over the last two years have felt isolated and alone. Even with social media being a moderately new avenue for community to form, nothing can replace in-person experience.

My favorite scripture from the New Testament is from Matthew 22:37-39. “37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.”

Jesus was tried to be backed into a corner, having to choose between what law was more important to follow. Instead of playing the game, Jesus made it abundantly clear, Loving God and Neighbor, is what we are all called to do.

In order to love our neighbor, we have to get to know them. How can you love someone you never talk to or engage with? Sure, we can be strangers, who in times of need show up with support. But what about the art of forming friendships; showing up with things are good and celebrating life together?

Holistic spirituality does not mean focusing on your relationship with God in isolation. Instead, it means living out that relationship among community. Community is essential to our spirituality, not an afterthought or add on. Even Jesus lived among community, engaging in dinners and travel.

We have a great opportunity, right here in Anna, to be real neighbors for each other. Check in, see what people are going through. Maybe even bake them some cookies, just because you can. With so many new people

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moving here, it is important that each of us takes up the responsibility to connect and love each other.

So how do you do that? For starters, if you are able, enjoy being outside, either in your front yard or in our community parks. My family loves going to the Paw Park. I can vouch they are a very fun community! Put yourself in situations where you can talk to people. Second, check the city website. They always have great activities to be apart of for all age ranges.

The local churches also have different ministries that fit various needs.

Consider trying something new. Take a dance class or volunteer for the local food pantry.

Find ways to engage with people that are safe, but maybe a little out of your comfort zone. Who knows, you might make a lifelong friend!

I am excited for the growth and diversity of Anna and look forward to meeting new people in our community!

Blessings, Reverend Dallen Morgan REV. DALLEN MORGAN moved to Anna in 2021 based on a calling to be a part of the community. Her family includes husband Matt, and children Kaylee, Easton and PollyNell. She graduated with her Masters from SMU Perkins in 2017, MA in Divinity. She currently serves Anna United Methodist Church and hopes to broaden the doors of church for all people to feel welcomed!

COME AS YOU ARE Really! Just as you are!

Anna U nit ed

Met hod i s t

Chur ch

Currently meeting @ 332 Miller Lane, Van Alstyne Worship - 10:30 am, blended service Youth Group - Wednesday at 6pm, dinner included Find us on Facebook

Loving God, Loving our Community

Anna Living Magazine

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After a hard fought 14-5 win over Melissa, Anna Coyotes are District Champs. Pictured are front row: Silvia Singhal, Maura Ballard, Payton Wickliffe, Ella Sharp, Molli Woodbury, Julia Katke, Morgan Sharp and Kate Adcox; Back row: Vince Sharp-Head Coach, P.K. Kagore, Joe Ballard, Bryceton Evans, Matt Moyer-Asst. Coach, R.J. Frazier, Joseph Rule, Jackson Benavidez, Billy Barrera, Kenny Bibb and Logan Daniell-Asst. Coach.

Coyotes Enter Playoffs for 2021 Team Tennis Title

By Joyce Godwin

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he Anna Coyotes Tennis Team has taken the district title this year with a recent 14-5 win over Melissa. Watch the team’s progress through the UIL playoffs headed for a Region 2 win at https://www.uiltexas.org/files/athletics/4A_Brackets.pdf.

Coyotes are working had to get a place in the state tournament this year.

Head Coach Vince Sharp, now in his seventh year at Anna High School, said he wants people to understand this team is really special. “We have eight seniors that have given so much to make this program better, and it shows in their results!” Sharp said. “I couldn’t be more proud of them! They deserve the success they have earned!”

Jarod Rupe earns Dave Campbell Impactful Leadership Award He does it because it's right; not for recognition

By Joyce Godwin

Jarod Rupe was pretty shocked when he saw something on Instagram this fall. A friend of his mentioned on Instagram that Jarod had been named to the Dave Campbell Impactful Leadership Award. His friend posted the news and tagged Jarod. That’s how he learned he was selected as the first recipient of the Dave Campbell Impactful Leadership Award.

Since the 1950s, Dave Campbell has been the go-to authority on Texas high school, college and professional football. To be recognized by this organization is a very big deal. Rudy Klancnik, vice president of the organization, said there will be 10 awards made each year and Jarod is the first to receive the Impactful Leadership Award sponsored by First National Bank of Omaha. The bank has recently launched branches in Texas and see this as a way to connect with the communities, grass roots and Texas, Klancnik said.

Other awardees to join Jarod so far are Cole Hutson of Frisco, Jake Hermes of Whitesboro High School, Tanner Call of McKinney High

Graphic created by Dave Campbell’s Texas Football.

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School, Jadarian Price of Denison High School and Will Hutton of Lake Highlands High School.

Klancnik says it is not based on performances on the football field, but rather on best practices — best players but also the best people —the kids who are the leaders in the weight room, classroom, and the ones other kids look up to. “Friday night is about winning for sure, but it’s also important to connect with the community,” Klancnik said. “We want to amplify those guys and highlight what they do.”

Anna’s Head Coach and Athletic Director Seth Parr said he nominated Jarod because he noticed Jarod always bringing a friend with him and Jarod is quick to ask what he can do to help. “He is someone who gives up his time and loves what he does,” Parr said.

Jarod says he likes to take friends out to eat and give them rides when they need it. “It’s important to bond with your team,” he said. “I always thought it was just the right thing to do. God blessed me with all these friends.”

When Jarod’s mom Shonda Rupe proudly posted the news on Facebook, responses poured in from other parents and fellow students alike.

Statements like, outstanding, proud of you and this is amazing can be seen under the announcement of his award. Trent Hudson said “Congratulations bud! Glad that my son is around great kids like Jarod. Greatly appreciate the leadership.” Carolyn Gridges said “Great kid. Great parents and great coach.” Jennifer Ashley said “Jarod is truly deserving of this honor. This is exactly who Jarod is and has been for years.”

Jarod is a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes. During his free time last summer, he worked at the camp for the Anna Middle School football players. Jarod also he has also volunteered with youth football practice and he helped Coach Pfifer last year by filming basketball games.

During his free time, he enjoys working out, playing basketball with friends, swimming and spending time with his girlfriend, Autumn.

Anna Living Magazine

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Anna Living Magazine

Anna Living Magazine

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SCENES FROM FRIDAY NIGHTS

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Anna Living Magazine

Photos by Joyce Godwin

Friday Night Lights in Anna draws a large crowd. We love having the opportunity to capture special sights of high school football and all that goes with it. From the talents of young musicians who make up the band to the student athletic trainers, to the young boys who handle the balls from the sidelines, to the cheerleaders, flag runners, school sponsors and coaches who put in countless hours to help students make a great performance, there is a lot that goes into the production of a high school football game.

Here are some of the scenes we’ve been able to capture over the past several weeks of football players in action including the 2021 Homecoming Queen and King Jordan Davis and Bono Chinanga Jr. Both are senior students. Other members of the royal court with the king and queen are for queen: Taylor Bigony, Kendall Torres, Payton Wickliffe; and for King: Kory Wilson, Greg Cade and Milton Ayala.

Queen and king are pictured with their parents. From left are Ignatius Ngwaabanjong and Marie Ngwaabanjong with son Bonaventure Chinanga (king) and Jordan Davis (queen) with parents Jami Rouse and Virgil Davis.

A note about the band: Anna High School Marching Band swept the Aubrey Classic!

1st Place in Music, Marching, Percussion, Auxillary, and Overall!

Way to go, Coyotes!

Anna Living Magazine

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Anna Living Magazine

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Phone: 469.697.5100 Fax: 469.697.5105 www.dhat.com

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"You never get a second chance to make a first impression. – Will Rogers."

T

hat was certainly the case for every freshman who stepped on the Austin College campus in the fall of 1973.

It was during orientation I found myself and three other freshmen sitting together at lunch.

We became inseparable. Don, Mark, and Greg and I ate together, hung out, partied and played pickup basketball. Most saw us as a nameless clump of freshmen, except one upperclassman, a friendly cheerleader, who always took time to talk to us. One day he approached with a proposition.

“You guys know anything about explosives?”

The next thing we knew, we were in a storage closet, and came upon an interesting sight: an old cannon, once fired at AC football games.

Our collective knowledge of explosives? July 4th. But what self-respecting teenage boy could resist the prospect of firing a cannon?

We took it to a local gun shop. The owner said, “I don’t see any cracks in the barrel. Try pouring a cap full of gunpowder down the barrel, stuff in some tissue and light the fuse.”

He sold us a can of gunpowder, a plunger, and some fuses, then added, “Be careful.”

We immediately tested it, doing exactly as we were told. The blast was deafening as flames flew out of the end of the barrel. We then put it back in the storage room and didn’t tell a soul.

On Saturday we wheeled the cannon to the stadium, near the flagpole by the endzone. Our bright yellow t-shirts grabbed the attention of fans walking by. Printed on the back: IT TAKES IRON BALLS TO SHOOT CANNONS We were four totally insignificant freshmen boys at a football game. That was about to change.

The first quarter was uneventful – no scoring.

We were anxious to fire the cannon and agreed we should fire it to end the quarter. The clock ticked down to zero, we lit the fuse. The roar from the cannon caught the attention of everyone in the stadium as we danced around, congratulating one another.

Gaining our composure, we realized that the teams had switched ends of the field. Standing with his back to us on the ten-yard line was fellow freshman, Willie Williams, a sensational player. Southwestern of Memphis lined up at midfield, facing us, preparing to punt the ball to Willie.

Mark, remembering that Willie was the na20

tion’s leading punt returner, asked, “What if Willie runs this punt back for a touchdown?”

It was a reasonable question, and we realized we weren’t prepared if he did. Mark quickly grabbed the cannon, straddling and lifting it to reload. Greg, in front of the cannon, carefully poured gunpowder into the cap. Don stood to one side with matches. I stood on the other with the plunger.

We were staring down the barrel as Greg started to pour in the gunpowder. Don stopped Greg, asking “Aren’t we supposed to let the barrel cool down?” Looking at one another, hoping someone might know the answer, I blurted out: “In those pirate movies, they just reload the cannons right after they fire them.”

The power of persuasion? Possibly just anxious? Freshman stupidity?

Greg poured the gunpowder down the hot barrel and, yes, there was an explosion. Flames streamed out of the end of the barrel. But that wasn’t all. Greg was holding the can, full of gunpowder, and it exploded too. The blast blew us into the end zone, right as Southwestern punted.

I came to my senses quickly, realized my shirt was on fire, and rolled around. Obviously, Greg must have been absent in the second grade when they showed the stop, drop and roll film. He jumped up and started running madly around the end zone. Don and I chased him.

Willie fielded the punt, heading upfield.

Southwestern’s punt coverage team, sprinting toward us, came to a stop. They couldn’t decide whether they should tackle Willie or watch the guys on fire running around the end zone. We wrestled Greg to the ground, rolled him over a few times, and then jumped to our feet. The crowd thought the cannon crew had pulled off the greatest prank in AC history, and over the loudspeaker you hear … TOUCHDOWN ROOOOOOOS! Our cheerleading friend realized it wasn’t a joke. By the time he reached us, the crowd also realized something might be wrong. The EMTs arrived, and with charred arms and singed hair, we were whisked away.

Though extremely painful, our injuries were no more serious than second and third degree burns, and our hair and eyebrows would grow back. Back at campus, our hands, arms, and foreheads covered in white gauze, we looked like Wile E. Coyote after a failed attempt to catch the Roadrunner. We headed to the cafeAnna Living Magazine

Submitted photo from Claude Webb collection Pictured here is the Austin College cannon crew for 1973 wearing bandages covering burns sustained from a cannon accident during a football game against Southwestern University of Memphis, Tenn. From left are Greg Packwood, Claude Webb, Don Adams, Marilyn Pool (an Austin College cheerleader, not a member of the cannon crew), and Mark Freeman.

teria. Steaks were served on Saturday nights, so we knew it would be packed.

Afraid that we would be the laughing stock of the campus, we tried to slip in, but were surprised to receive a standing ovation! We were now heroes, having contributed to AC’s 14-14 tie. Students cheered us, football players thanked us, and sorority girls were offering to help us – after all, our hands were bandaged. Being helpless wasn’t going to be so bad after all.

Our injuries lasted only a short while, but the friendships forged because of the cannon incident lasted a lifetime. The four of us graduated together and have remained friends.

Mark Freeman became a computer programmer, Greg Packwood, a successful business owner, and Don Adams an attorney. I became an educator, helping kids to learn from my mistakes, rather than make them. Oh, and that cheerleader that talked us into this? He served as Texas’ Secretary of State and Mayor of Dallas: Ron Kirk.

Looking back, I guess you could say our first impression was a “bang!”

UNCLE SPIDER calls North Texas home, but has traveled all over the world, seeking adventures that might make for a good story.

He’s also one of the owner/ operators of the GARHOLE in Westminster. Stop by and see him there, or email him at spider@garhole.net.

Defensive Driving Tips

Defensive driving tips can help drivers take on the road safely.

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hat are some defensive driving techniques to help you stay safe on the road? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 36,096 vehicle fatalities in 2019. Speeding and offensive driving are major problems which contribute to fatal car crashes throughout the United States.

These defensive driving tips can help you or a loved one take on the road safely.

• Set rear view and side mirrors appropriately, to eliminate blind spots around your vehicle.

• Raise your seat high enough so you have a clear view of the road. Sit on a small pillow if necessary.

• Limit distractions inside the vehicle.

This includes the radio and conversations with passengers and use of cell phones.

Before you drive • Get periodic vision and hearing tests, especially if you drive at night. When you consider that 90% of a driver’s reaction depends on vision, and vision is limited at night, it is no surprise that the night driving crash rate is roughly three times that of daylight driving.

• Keep your windshield, headlights, and mirror clean to improve visibility.

• Keep windshield wiper blades in proper working condition.

• Take a defensive driving course. Some insurance policies may offer price discounts when individuals take these courses.

• Carefully read medication labels to see if they may impair driving skills.

• Don’t drive if you’re feeling tired, lightheaded or stressed.

Driving in adverse conditions • Avoid driving during periods of high traffic, typically during morning, lunch and evening commute times.

• Slow down after the sun goes down.

Close to two-thirds of fatal crashes that happen at night are speed related.

• Avoid driving during inclement weather.

• Be aware of road warning signs for hills, curves, animals and other obstacles.

• Be especially alert at intersections, for proper signage/signals, and crossing traffic.

Behind the wheel • Always wear your seat belt.

Drive smart • Watch for flashing lights and listen for emergency vehicles.

• Keep a safe distance between you and the car ahead so you have ample time to brake safely if necessary. In normal driving conditions, the general rule is “three seconds plus.” When the vehicle in front of you passes a stationary object, begin Anna Living Magazine

• •

•

•

counting. You should reach that same object no sooner than three seconds, four seconds ideally. Increase following distance when visibility is poor or you’re in traffic.

Use other transportation services such as taxis, rideshare services, and buses if you’re unsure of your ability to drive safely.

Obey the posted speed limit. Speeding puts lives and licenses on the line. It may also be expensive, and pricey tickets could increase insurance rates.

Share the road. Bicyclists must adhere to the same rules of the roads as motorists yet are more vulnerable to injury. Always give ample space to other vehicles to maneuver safely, from bikes and motorcycles to large trucks.

Check mirrors frequently while driving, including lane changes, to be more aware of your surroundings.

This article was provided by State Farm and local agent Rod Walnofer.

ROD WALNOFER has been serving Anna for over 22 years helping our community with their insurance needs. He may be contacted at rod@ walnofer.com

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Anna Public Servants Remember September 11 Story and photos by Joyce Godwin

As the sun rose showing off a beautiful orange glow for the start of a beautiful blue-skied day, Anna folks gathered at the Slayter Park flagpole while the Anna Fire Department and members of the Anna Police Department prepared to memorialize the September 11, 2001 attack on America for its 20th anniversary. It was not lost on the people in attendance that the day in 2001 was much like the day of the 20th anniversary.

Anna’s Fire Chief Ray Isom began the ceremony explaining it is a somber occasion. “Our mission today is to send a very simple message – Never forget the sacrifices of those who are called to lay down their lives in service to others,” he said. “Today, we remember the fallen firefighters, paramedics, police officers and soldiers who perished in the line of duty

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Anna Living Magazine

20 years ago. Many of their lives were lost in an instant, but their friends and loved ones continue to be affected by the sacrifices made on this day.”

Isom explained that on this day the dedication of volunteer and career firefighters across the country are honored. “We thank their families for their faithful support. For those of us in public safety, it is our privilege, it is our duty, and it is our calling.” Isom added, “We often forget that the attacks took the lives of victims in three different states: New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Two thousand five hundred seven civilians, 343 firefighters, 71 law enforcement officers and 55 military personnel died on that day. Those numbers continue to increase due to ongoing illness.”

Isom also explained to the group that the “Ringing of the Bell” ceremony would be held. It is a fire department tradition going back more than 200 years. “The bell is our symbol used to announce that a fallen comrade has come home for the final time,” he said.

Isom also thanked members of the American Legion along with the Anna Fire Department Honor Guard, led by Battalion Chief Chuy Eaton for helping with the ceremony.

It was a short ceremony including remarks from Anna Police Chief Dean Habel, Assistant Fire Chief Dan Wood, Anna City Manager Jim Proce and Mayor Nate Pike among others.

The fire department honor guard followed up the ceremony by keeping a vigil at the location from then until 5 p.m. The honor guard consisted of Battalion Chief Eaton, Firefighter Mike Hundley, Battalion Chief Bryan Thomas, Capt. Jake Metdker and Firefighter Brandon Beren.

Anna Living Magazine

Facts to remember about September 11, 2001 A total of 2,996 people were killed in the 9/11 attacks, including the 19 terrorist hijackers aboard the four airplanes. Citizens of 78 countries died in New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania.

At the World Trade Center, 2,763 died after the two planes slammed into the twin towers. That figure includes 343 firefighters and paramedics, 23 New York City police officers and 37 Port Authority police officers who were struggling to complete an evacuation of the buildings and save the office workers trapped on higher floors.

At the Pentagon, 189 people were killed, including 64 on American Airlines Flight 77, the airliner that struck the building. On Flight 93, 44 people died when the plane crash-landed in Pennsylvania.

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Want A Bright Green Lawn This Winter?

This Is How Pros Do It Annual vs. Perennial Ryegrass: If you plan to over seed your lawn this fall, knowing the difference between annual and perennial ryegrass — and how each performs — will help you make the best choice for your situation.

Perennial ryegrass has a deep-green color and slower growth habit. Even though it has the word “perennial” in its name, in full sun, this cool-season grass will fade and your permanent turf will flourish when temperatures warm and consistently reach the 90s. In the shade, however, it may stay cool enough for perennial rye to persist into the summer. Use of a specific variety is not that critical. Most are packaged blends of two to three varieties best-adapted to a particular region.

Annual ryegrass is much less expensive than perennial rye. However, it takes on a pale yellow-green color when soil temperatures cool and it must be cut more often than perennial ryegrass. The best use for annual ryegrass is to cover large areas and for erosion control. It may also be used as a temporary lawn while waiting to install permanent Bermuda grass or St. Augustine grass once temperatures warm. Commercial properties and landscaping contractors prefer to use perennial rye for over seeding. It is imperative that a pre-emergent not be used prior to seeding either type of ryegrass, as this will inhibit the development of the seed.

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The next step is to drop the mower setting a couple of notches and cut the lawn. In Bermuda grass, especially, this exposes mostly stems and causes the lawn to look brown. This is more challenging to accomplish in St. Augustine grass because of its wide-leaf blades, but this process is essential as it allows the ryegrass seed to contact the soil, which is critical for germination.

Use approximately 8 to 10 pounds of ryegrass seed for every 1,000 square feet of lawn area, being careful not to get the seed in your flower beds. Two to three passes with a drop spreader open to its widest setting will create a buffer zone. Then use a broadcast spreader to finish the seeding.

After seeding, apply a 20-5-10 or a 15-5-10 fertilizer with 50 percent of its nitrogen in a slow-release form at half-strength. Once the seed has sprouted, maintain the deep green color throughout the growing season by fertilizing at the regular rate in late November and early February (one pound of actual nitrogen per 1,000 square feet).

Once the seed and fertilizer have been applied, keeping the seed moist so germination can occur is your next objective. Water once or twice a day, five to 10 minutes per area, but do not let the water puddle. In three to five days, in warm weather, new seedlings will start emerging. When the new seedlings are about Anna Living Magazine

an inch or so tall, decrease the watering to every other day, but increase the amount of time for each area. Gradually cut back your number of days to once a week, applying one inch of water if no rainfall has occurred. November through February, check the soil’s moisture, and if the top inch of the soil is dry to the touch, irrigate.

A good mowing height for ryegrass is two to three inches. It is best to mow again before it reaches a height of three to four inches. This may only mean cutting the grass every two to three weeks when the weather is cool, more often however in the spring. Timely mowing will have a positive effect on health, vigor and weed suppression.

In an over seeded lawn, weeds usually are not a major concern. Cool-season broadleaf weeds will be the main culprit and are usually controlled with an herbicide containing 2-4-d.

Apply the weed control following the label directions, but only after the lawn has been mowed at least three times. Use a dedicated spot sprayer on a sunny day when temperatures are between 55 and 85 degrees and winds are light. Spring pre-emergents for Bermuda and St. Augustine grass will still be applied at their normal times of March 1 and June 1.

Planting ryegrass in the fall really brightens the landscape and gives tired lawns a new refreshed look. It is especially effective for homes on the market for sale during the winter — the

lush lawn makes them look appealing and wellcared for.

Question: Hi Jimmie, I’m a beginner in gardening. I have a big problem here. I’ve just recently planted my first landscaping but it did not turn out well.

Even worse, some did not even grow and 60 percent of everything I planted has died! I bought everything a nursery employee from a reputable nursery in Frisco told me did well here and went straight home and dug the holes and planted right away. Could you give me some tips regarding this matter? I would really appreciate it. Jonny R. in Anna Answer: Hi Johnny, The best way to advance beyond the “beginner” stage in gardening is to become well-versed in the matter of soil preparation.

Adding organic soil conditioners will improve that “unfertile soil” you’re working with. Things will only do as well as what you plant them in. With our soil being predominately black clay and caliche, the only thing I can think of

that might do well without soil amendments might be Cotton! Don’t feel bad: at least you’ve identified a potential source for the problem.

Good soil is truly the foundation of successful gardening and landscaping.

Question: Hi Jimmie, I like a lot of different plants, but as a beginner at landscape design I’m not sure how to group them. Aesthetic considerations aside, is there a rule of thumb for grouping plant A with plant B, rather than having it grow next to plant C? Thanks for your time, Courtney B. in Anna Answer: Hi Courtney, You may like a lot of different plants, but as a beginner at landscape design, you may not be sure how to group them. There are, of course, aesthetic considerations in landscape design.

That’s the fun part of landscape design. But there are also practical reasons for grouping plant A with plant B, rather than having it grow next to plant C. Rule of thumb for practical landscape

Anna Living Magazine

design: group plants with similar requirements together.

This includes sun and watering requirements.

Grouping them together will reduce maintenance for you (saving you from dragging the garden hose around unnecessarily, etc.). Until next time…Happy Gardening!!

- Jimmie Send your landscaping and gardening questions to Jimmie Gibson Jr. at http://www.absolutelybushedlandscaping.com or jimmie@absolutelybushed.com JIMMIE GIBSON is a Prosper resident and the owner of Absolutely Bushed Landscaping Company, an award winning, family and veteran owned and operated business created in 1980 to provide the highest quality custom Outdoor Renovation available to homeowners in the Dallas Ft. Worth area.

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In The Kitchen with Christi

Gearing Up for Fall in The Kitchen Photos and recipes by Christi Mahon

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hat do you keep on hand in your kitchen? I must admit I’m never without onion, garlic or Rotel. It seems like most of my soup recipes start with all three. In the fall, who doesn’t love a good, hearty soup? I found this lovely, versatile recipe a few years ago when a friend wanted to try a “Keto” diet. We settled on trying to reduce carbohydrates as a true “Keto” diet is hard to maintain. When making this recipe, I use a deboned, rotisserie chicken instead of the chicken breasts.

Chicken Soup (Keto Friendly) • • • • • • • • • •

INGREDIENTS: 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 4 cloves garlic, chopped 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon salt 2 cans Rotel (chopped tomatoes with green chilis) 2 cans chicken broth 2 cups cooked chicken breasts, chopped 1 bunch of fresh cilantro, stems removed, chopped 1 fresh lime

DIRECTIONS: In a large saucepan saute onion and garlic until translucent. Add two cans of Rotel with liquid, chicken broth, cumin, salt and chicken. Bring to a boil, lower heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Add chopped cilantro and juice of the lime, simmer a few more minutes and serve hot. Top with avocado for a Keto friendly dish or dress it up with tortilla strips, cheese and avocado.

This soup is flavorful with a little spice, but not too spicy.

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Anna Living Magazine

Taco Soup

This taco soup recipe has tons of flavor and will feed a crowd. It’s one of our fall favorites and pairs well with cornbread or tortilla chips and cheese. It tastes even better as a leftover.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Squash Casserole

DIRECTIONS: In a large saucepan brown ground beef.

Drain fat, add onion and garlic, saute until translucent. Add chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, tomato sauce, beef broth and Rotel. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce heat. Simmer 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a little water if it gets too thick. Add corn, black beans, pinto beans and dry ranch dressing.

Simmer 10 minutes. Serve hot and top with tortilla chips and cheese.

Squash Casserole may seem more like a summer dish, but I like a good casserole anytime of year. This recipe tastes most like my grandmother’s squash casserole. She rarely used a written recipe so I don’t have this one exactly like hers, but it’s close. I love to use her corning ware to honor her and remember all the delicious food she made with love for her family.

• • • • •

INGREDIENTS: 4 cups yellow squash, sliced 1 yellow onion, diced, about a cup 1 teaspoon salt, added to water ½ teaspoon salt, added to squash mixture ¾ cup cheddar cheese

INGREDIENTS: 1 to 2 pounds lean ground beef 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 4 cloves garlic, chopped 1 tablespoon chili powder 1 teaspoon cumin ½ teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon paprika 1 small can tomato sauce 2 cans chopped tomatoes or for spicier soup use Rotel 1 can beef broth 1 can sweet corn, drained or 1 cup frozen corn 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed 1 can pinto beans, drained 1.5 tablespoons dry Ranch dressing mix Salt and Pepper to taste

• • • • •

2 eggs 1/3 cup milk ½ cup butter, melted 1 sleeve buttery crackers, crushed Salt and Pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS: Add salt to water enough to cover squash in a deep pan, boil squash and onion until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain squash well. In a separate bowl beat egg, add milk and cheese, stir together. Add this mixture to squash and stir. In a buttered casserole dish, add ½ of the mixture and top with about ½ of the crushed crackers, drizzle ½ of the melted butter on the crackers. Add the remaining squash mixture and top with the rest of the crushed cracker and drizzle remaining butter on top. Cook in a 350 degree oven for about 25 minutes.

Anna Living Magazine

CHRISTI WEBB MAHON Christi Webb Mahon began helping in the kitchen at an early age. She learned to cook by watching her mom and grandmothers. Their dishes were not fancy but, were always tasty and made with love. Grandmother Pebble told Christi she loved watching people enjoy their food, and Christi says she feels the same. Christi may be reached at christi. easyrecipes@yahoo.com.

If you would like to try your hand at writing for an “In the Kitchen” page in Anna Living Magazine, contact us at joyce@ annalivingmagazine.com.

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Let’s talk about streaming, but first some background.

T

he golden age of motion pictures is generally considered to have run from the beginning of the sound era, late 1920s to around 1950. By that late date it was not just television cutting into ticket sales, but also a 1948 Supreme Court ruling that forced the studios to sell their interest in theaters.

Without double ownership the studios could no longer control where and how their pictures were distributed. That previous monopoly is why many of the old-time movie palaces had names like Paramount, Warner and Fox. The motion picture industry took a big hit with the ruling but bounced back and thrived for another 60 years.

Consensus opinion by 1955 was that because movies went to wide screen processes, from Cinemascope, Panavision and Vistavision to Cinerama, Cinemiracle and Todd-AO, the trade stayed ahead of the entertainment curve.

Wider use of stereophonic sound in theaters helped. By the 1970s, multiscreen theaters and higher prices for both tickets and food concessions put the profit margin well into the black.

Things rocked along into the 21st century, even though the Hollywood studios seemed to lose connection to adult tastes and concentrated more on teen-age and pre-teen customers.

The advent of home video such as VHS tapes and then DVDs surely played a role. Studios turned to films based on comic book characters and video games. Animation enjoyed a major revival. Adult subjects were pushed deeper into the hands of independent filmmakers.

Before 1950 and in a few cases another decade longer, the men who invented the movies were in charge. These were guys like Jack L. Warner, Louis B. Mayer, Samuel Goldwyn, Darryl F. Zanuck, Cecil B. DeMille, David O. Selznick and Harry Cohn. They, too, liked big profits, but advancing the quality of filmmaking was always an important factor. They hired people like Irving Thalberg, William Wyler, John Ford, John Huston, Alfred Hitchcock and others. The business was their lives.

The separation of studio and theater ownership left these men behind and put bean counters — accountants and business executives — in charge. It spelled doom. Previously

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those types had been held at bay in faraway places like New York City. Their migration to Hollywood brought new profit-making ideas to both ends of the film trade. Not all of them were good.

Distribution of pictures was in evolution. Through the 1960s, most movies were released to theaters in stair-step fashion. Historically, films opened in large cities, drifted to the suburbs within weeks and then played in smaller towns.

There was time to build audiences. Roadshow releases — opening first in less than 50 theaters nationally and screened on a reserved seat, advance ticket sale basis, with their big budgets and heavy promotion — didn’t make it to the small town theaters for up to a year, sometimes longer, after release. This seems to have been forgotten by many current film executives and historians.

“Jaws” opened on 464 screens, an unheard of practice in June of 1975, and it caused a sensation. Pre-covid, 21st century methods have been for films to hit 2,000 to 3,000 screens on opening day. A picture that doesn’t show a big profit in the first two days is considered a failure. A movie like “Bonnie and Clyde,” originally ignored by fans and ravaged by many critics in 1967, would today die on the vine. In the 1960s it was given time to find its audience and made a major profit. “The Big Lebowski” was a box office failure, but home video revived it and now it has a tremendous following.

In today’s market the instant success factor has big studio bosses demanding immediate, or even quicker, profit. Subscriptions that guarantee money before a picture is made is now preferred. Wi-fi and fiber optic technology mixed with 60-, 70-, and 80-inch television screens has encouraged studios to often skip the theaters and send the films directly into homes. Some theater chains will hang on, but streaming movies has proved profitable and the practice will, I’m afraid, continue to grow.

The Covid 19 pandemic was a factor, but Anna Living Magazine

streaming services were already an inevitability before that temporary closing of the movie houses. Why did Disney studios buy the 20th Century Fox catalog? Disney-Plus streaming service is a good bet for an answer. Prime streaming is the reason behind Amazon’s purchase of the MGM catalog. Large companies purchasing films and filming rights for streaming purposes is only beginning.

Today it is no longer a question of whether it’s good or bad. It is simply evolution.

Considering there is now an odd combination of releasing methods between theaters-only and streaming services leaves a question of which will eventually become dominant. In any case, streaming has changed motion picture dynamics.

The major drawback I see is that widespread availability of watching many old movies will require subscription to several streaming services, from Prime to Disney-Plus to Paramount-Plus to The Criterion Channel. It’s no longer a choice of buying a ticket at a theater or a blu-ray or 4K disc at a store.

Adaptation will be necessary, even for classic movie lovers.

DON ELDREDGE is the retired editor of the Herald Democrat newspaper (Sherman-Denison, TX) and resides in Sherman. E-mail him at eldredgedon@gmail.com.

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