A Summer of Play, Paws, and Possibility
In our August issue, we’re turning our spotlight on two of life’s greatest sources of joy, chaos, and laughter: kids and pets. Whether it’s the imagination and boundless energy of children or the quirks and loyalty of our animal companions, both bring color and character to our homes in unforgettable ways.
This month, we’ve crafted a heartwarming edition that highlights the playful spirit of summer. We start with a feature on a local kids' golf camp that’s not only teaching the basics of the game but also building confidence, patience, and new friendships on and off the green. It’s inspiring to see how the next generation is learning through play.
We also include a variety of thoughtful and practical articles for animal lovers covering everything from how to keep your furry friends safe during the summer heat, to helpful tips on adopting a new pet and giving them the pampering they deserve. Whether you're a first-time pet parent or have years of experience, you’ll find inspiration and advice to make life even better for the companions who bring so much joy to our homes.
Finally, we know how tough it can be to pry screens away from little hands. That’s why we’re sharing ideas on how to help your child unplug and rediscover the magic of creative, active play.
We hope this issue sparks a summer full of discovery, connection, and tail wags. Thank you for being part of our community.
Warm regards,
ANGIE TERRY, PUBLISHER @ANNACITYLIFESTYLE
August 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
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Movie Night at PopPop & Gigi's House 4: Tony Hawk stopped by Slayter Creek Park Skatepark 6: Pool Time for Kinlee
business monthly
Anna Veterinary Clinic
Anna Veterinarian Clinic was started by Dr. Clinton Walker after completing his term of service in the United States Army. Born and raised in the area, Dr. Walker wanted to bring his knowledge and skills back to his local community. Always placing people and pets first is a cornerstone of Anna Veterinary Clinic. Conveniently located at 9537 County Road 423, Anna, TX. Give them a call at (972) 924-0303
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Goldfish Pediatrics & Urgent Care
Goldfish Pediatrics & Urgent Care prides itself on providing an updated model to the routine 9-5 pediatric practices. They understand that kids are kids; they can get sick or injured after hours. Goldfish Pediatrics will be open for extended hours during the week and weekends. Reach out to them at (469) 885-7100. Located at 2302 Sam Rayburn Hwy, Suite 200, Melissa, TX.
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Tailwaggers Country Inn, Luxury Dog & Pet Resort
A vacation at Tailwaggers Country Inn is sure to provide an unforgettable experience with their state-of-the-art amenities. Their well-trained, certified, and experienced staff will make this the perfect “retreat vacation” for your favorite feline and canine friends. Find out more by visiting or calling (877)774-3647, 166 Hynds Ranch Rd., Van Alstyne, TX.
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ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CENTURION AMERICAN
A HOLE-IN-ONE EXPERIENCE FOR KIDS!
KIDS
GOLF CAMP
KIDS GOLF CAMP
A Hole-in-One Experience for Kids!
In an era dominated by fast-paced sports and digital distractions, golf may not seem like the obvious choice for young children. However, golf camps designed for kids ages 5 to 16 are
on skill development, teamwork and individual progress.
These camps are usually broken down into age or skill-based groups so that instruction is tailored to each child’s level. Whether a 5-year-old is holding a golf club for the first time or
“AGE GROUPS ARE 5-16 AND ANY SKILL LEVEL” ~ COACH MATT
becoming increasingly popular across the country—and for good reason. These programs offer a structured, fun, and enriching experience that teaches not just the mechanics of the game, but also valuable life skills.
We were fortunate to spend some time with Golf Pro Matt Artrip during one of his camps for kids. Coach Matt (as his campers call him) is the Golf Pro at The Bridges Golf Club in Gunter, Texas, owned by Centurion American Development Group. Coach Matt educated us on the benefits these children gained while attending his golf camps.
WHAT IS A GOLF CAMP?
Golf camp is a specialized program that introduces young players to the fundamentals of golf while creating a positive and engaging atmosphere. Camps can run during summer or school breaks, and range in duration from a few days to several weeks. Many are held at local golf courses, country clubs or driving ranges, with a focus
a 16-year-old is working toward joining a high school team, there’s a place for every young golfer. Coach Matt explains, “We work on basic golf grip, which clubs are used where, simple techniques to be able to hit and putt the golf ball, while having fun doing it.”
Artrip adds, “We have several safety rules with cones and how we hold our clubs if we aren’t hitting. I say, ‘Get your cane out,’ and the kids hold their clubs by the head with the grip touching the ground so we aren’t tempted to practice our swings.”
THE BENEFITS OF GOLF FOR KIDS
Golf may seem like a calm sport, but it provides numerous physical, mental and social benefits for kids.
1. Physical Fitness
Golf helps kids develop motor skills, hand-eye coordination, balance and flexibility. Walking the course, swinging clubs and carrying gear also promote cardiovascular health and muscle development.
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2. Mental Focus
Unlike many team sports that emphasize quick reflexes and fast movement, golf teaches patience, concentration and strategic thinking. Kids learn to assess distances, choose the right club and make decisions independently—skills that translate well into academics and everyday life.
3. Character Building
Golf is known for its emphasis on etiquette and honesty. Players are responsible for keeping their own scores and following rules without constant oversight. This fosters integrity, sportsmanship and respect—values that are essential on and off the course.
4. Confidence and Achievement
As kids learn new techniques and see measurable progress in their skills, their confidence naturally grows. Golf is a sport where small victories, such as making a putt or hitting a clean drive, can make a big impact on self-esteem.
5. Social Skills
Golf camps are social environments where kids meet peers with similar interests. They learn to communicate, cooperate and even compete in a healthy way. Mixed-age groups often allow older participants to act as mentors, creating a sense of community.
WHAT KIDS LEARN AT GOLF CAMP
A well-structured golf camp covers a variety of topics to keep things fresh and exciting. Typical activities include:
• Swing fundamentals: Grip, posture, alignment and swing techniques.
“...SAFETY IS OUR #1 GOAL!” COACH MATT
• Putting and chipping: Short game instruction, often with fun mini-games and challenges.
• Course etiquette and rules: Understanding the do’s and don’ts on a golf course.
• Driving range practice: Safe and controlled long-game sessions.
• On-course play: For older or more advanced kids, supervised rounds help them put their skills into practice.
• Fitness and warm-up routines: Emphasizing the importance of stretching and injury prevention. Many camps also include themed days, skill contests and even mini-tournaments, complete with prizes and recognition ceremonies. This adds an element of excitement and accomplishment to the experience.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT CAMP
When selecting a golf camp for your child, consider the following:
• Instructor credentials: Look for programs led by certified PGA or LPGA professionals with experience teaching children.
• Group sizes: Smaller groups mean more personalized instruction.
• Facilities: Well-maintained courses and access to a range or putting green enhance the learning experience.
• Age/skill groupings: Camps that organize kids by ability ensure that each child is challenged appropriately.
A HEARTWARMING GUIDE TO SUMMER PET CARE ESSENTIALS
ARTICLE BY ANGIE TERRY
As the summer season stretches into August, it’s a wonderful time to pause and give your pet the care and attention they deserve. This time of year offers an ideal moment to reflect on three essential aspects of responsible pet ownership: vaccinations, adoption, and a little pampering. Each one plays a unique role in your pet’s well-being, and together, they create a foundation of love, health, and lifelong companionship.
Vaccinations are the first step in keeping your pet safe. While they’re often seen as routine, their importance cannot be overstated. Pets, like people, are exposed to a variety of viruses and diseases, which are easily preventable with timely immunizations. For dogs, core vaccines such as rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus protect against some of the most severe and life-threatening infections. Cats also benefit from a basic vaccine regimen that includes protection from rabies, feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, and panleukopenia. August is an ideal time to double-check your pet’s vaccine schedule. With more outdoor exposure, travel plans, and social interactions at parks or boarding facilities, pets are at greater risk of encountering illness.
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It’s also worth asking your veterinarian about additional protection if your pet is exposed to unique environments. For example, dogs going to daycare, groomers, or kennels may need the Bordetella vaccine to guard against kennel cough. Pets traveling across state lines or into rural areas may benefit from vaccines against Lyme disease or leptospirosis. Keeping accurate records and staying on top of boosters makes it easier to respond in emergencies and ensures peace of mind wherever your pet goes.
While preventive care protects those already in our lives, adoption gives hope and love to those still waiting for a home. August is nationally recognized as Clear the Shelters Month, a campaign aimed at finding forever homes for thousands of shelter animals. Every day, shelters across the country are full of pets of all ages, sizes, and personalities, all hoping for a second chance. For many people, adopting a pet is one of the most rewarding decisions they’ll ever make.
Bringing a pet home isn’t just an act of kindness; it’s a life-changing experience for both the animal and the adopter. While it does require preparation, such as setting up a safe space and scheduling a vet visit, the emotional rewards far outweigh the effort. Shelters offer support and guidance for first-time adopters, including starter kits and reduced fees during adoption campaigns. Choosing to adopt doesn’t just save a life; it opens the door to a relationship built on trust, resilience, and unconditional love.
Of course, once your pet is healthy and settled at home, it’s important to nurture your bond through thoughtful care and affection. Pampering your pet doesn’t have to mean extravagance. The best kind of pampering is practical, enriching, and rooted in genuine love. Grooming sessions, for example, can be both relaxing and beneficial. A warm bath, gentle brushing, or even a soothing paw massage can help pets feel cared for while also addressing hygiene and skin health.
“Caring for your pet means more than love - it’s protection, compassion, and creating joy in everyday moments.”
Summer also brings opportunities to treat pets in creative ways. Making frozen snacks from pet-safe ingredients, spending time together in shaded outdoor spaces, or simply introducing new toys and games can make a significant difference in their daily routine. Mental stimulation, especially during the hot months when activity may be limited, helps prevent boredom and supports overall well-being. Something as simple as ten minutes of quiet cuddling can lower stress levels and reinforce the
bond you share.
In the end, August offers a beautiful chance to realign with what matters most in pet care: proactive health measures, compassionate action, and everyday acts of kindness. Whether you’re scheduling vaccinations, opening your heart to a shelter animal, or creating small moments of joy through pampering, you’re giving your pet the best kind of life, one built on love, safety, and connection.
Brennan Caveny | Anna HS
It is with great pleasure to announce Brennan Caveny as the Outstanding Student-Athlete of the Month, as selected by the Anna Independent School District Athletic Coaching Team.
This month’s Student-Athlete spotlight shines on a dedicated senior who has made a lasting impact on and off the cheer mat. A proud member of the Anna Coyotes, she has been a cheerleader since her freshman year and continues to represent her school with passion and spirit. Her favorite color, baby blue, reflects her calm and caring nature, traits that extend beyond athletics.
In the classroom, her favorite subject is English, and she’s equally committed to her academics. She has earned All-American honors two years in a row, with a third title
just within reach. Her discipline and work ethic in both academics and athletics set a strong example for her peers.
Looking ahead, she plans to continue cheering in college while pursuing her dream of becoming a pediatric nurse. She’s focused on starting her medical career early and is already laying the groundwork for a bright future in healthcare.
With her school spirit, leadership, and commitment to excellence, this senior is not just an athlete but a role model.
Congratulations to Brennan and her selection as the August Outstanding Student-Athlete of the Month!
Editor's Corner
MINIMIZE STRESS & MAXIMIZE SUCCESS, BACK TO SCHOOL CHECKLIST!
1. Create a Schedule
• Write down the school start date and important events (meet-the-teacher, open house).
• Set a morning and nighttime routine.
3. Plan Meals ARTICLE BY SHANNON
• Create a week’s worth of dinner ideas.
• Prep snacks and lunch options in advance.
2. Gather Supplies & Set Up a Homework Station
• Check the school supply list.
• Purchase essential items (backpack, lunchbox, notebooks, pencils).
• Designate a quiet space for homework.
• Stock it with necessary supplies (paper, pens, etc.).
• Involve kids in choosing lunch items.
4. Organize Clothing
• Sort through last year’s clothes.
• Buy necessary clothing items (uniforms or school outfits).
• Prep first-week outfits the night before.
5. Schedule Health Appointments
• Book any required check-ups (physical, dental, vision).
• Ensure any necessary medications are ready.
6. Plan Transportation
• Confirm bus schedules or arrange carpooling.
• Practice walking or biking routes if applicable.
Shannon Roberts, Editor
Ann A City Lifesty L e™
Itchy Pet Awareness Month
Understanding the causes, signs, and treatments of pet allergies
As summer temperatures peak and environmental allergens fill the air, many pet owners notice their dogs and cats scratching more than usual. August has been designated as Itchy Pet Awareness Month, a time dedicated to helping pet parents recognize the signs of allergies and take steps to manage their pets’ skin health. While a little scratching here and there may seem harmless, persistent itching can indicate a more significant issue that warrants attention.
Itchy Pet Month falls in August for a good reason. This time of year brings a surge in environmental allergens, such as pollen, mold, dust mites, and grasses, especially in warm, humid regions. Additionally, flea populations are at their highest during the summer months. For pets with sensitivities, even a single flea bite can cause an intense allergic reaction, leading to red, inflamed skin and constant scratching. As a result, veterinarians typically see an increase in skin-related visits during this season.
Allergies in pets often look different from those in people. While humans might suffer from sneezing, watery eyes, or sinus issues, pets more commonly express allergic reactions through their skin and behavior.
ARTICLE BY ANGIE TERRY
A dog or cat with allergies might be constantly licking, chewing, or scratching at specific parts of their body. You may notice red patches of skin, hair loss, or even scabs and hot spots. In some cases, recurring ear infections or an unpleasant odor from the skin may also be linked to underlying allergies.
There are several potential causes for these reactions. Environmental allergens, also known as atopy, are among the most common and often appear seasonally. Flea allergy dermatitis is another major culprit, and because flea saliva triggers the reaction, even one bite can lead to days of intense itching. Some pets also suffer from food allergies, which may cause year-round symptoms and are often harder to identify without a proper dietary trial.
When a pet shows signs of persistent itching or skin irritation, it's important to consult a veterinarian. Diagnosis often involves ruling out other issues like infections, parasites, or hormonal imbalances. Depending on the severity and cause, your vet may recommend
treatments such as medicated shampoos, antihistamines, anti-inflammatory medications, or dietary changes. In more complex cases, allergy testing or immunotherapy may be necessary to identify and address specific triggers.
Beyond treatment, at-home care plays a significant role in managing pet allergies. Keeping your living space clean can help reduce allergens indoors. Regular grooming, using vet-recommended skin products, and wiping down your pet after time spent outdoors can prevent allergens from building up on their coat. Consistent flea prevention is also essential, particularly for pets with known flea sensitivities.
Early intervention is key. When allergies go untreated, they can lead to chronic skin infections, discomfort, and behavioral changes due to constant irritation. Monitoring your pet’s skin, behavior, and energy levels can help you spot signs before they escalate.
Itchy Pet Month serves as a valuable reminder that our pets rely on us not just for love and food, but for comfort and protection, especially during allergy season. With the right care, awareness, and support from your veterinarian, your pet can enjoy the final stretch of summer comfortably, free from the itch.
S w o r n a n d
n o n - s w o r n
P a r a m e d i c s R a n k e d t o p 5 f
p o s i t i o n s
C e r t i f i e d
F i r e f i g h t e r /
w w w . a n n a t e x a s . g o v / j o b s
Our Mission is to provide our clients with the opportunity to create a legacy for themselves, their companies, and their families through the acquisition or disposition of land.
OUR COMPANY VALUES
Dependability Integrity Relationships Trust
DIRT
As a specialized Real Estate brokerage with a focus on land sales for diverse developmental needs, we provide customized services tailored to the unique requirements of our clients. From the initial consultation and site selection to negotiations, due diligence, and closing, we manage every aspect of the transaction process. With our deep market insights, extensive industry connections, and specialized expertise, we empower clients to make well-informed decisions and fully realize the potential of their land investments. Whether you’re planning a residential community, multifamily development, industrial buildings, or other commercial projects, our dedicated team is committed to achieving exceptional outcomes and supporting your long-term success.
DOG gone GOOD
Try these simple and healthy homemade treats for your furry friends. Not only are they easy to make, they are nutritious and seemingly delicious.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Peanut Butter Dog Treats
Ingredients:
• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 2 eggs
• 2 1/2 cups flour (whole wheat preferred)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except flour and blend well. Gradually add the flour until the dough isn’t sticky. Roll dough into a ball. Lightly flour your surface and lightly knead. Use a rolling pin to roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters and place dough on baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Drizzle with peanut butter (optional).
No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls
Ingredients:
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup milk or half and half
• 3 cups oatmeal
Directions:
In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter and milk on medium for 1 minute. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups oatmeal and stir. Use a small scoop or spoon to create 1/4 inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup oats to lightly top. Place into a closed container and refrigerate.
Birthday Cake for Your Pup
Ingredients:
• 1 egg
• 4 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1/2 cup apple, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a ramekin and set aside. Combine all ingredients and mix well. Pour batter into ramekin and sprinkle a few apple slices on top. Bake for 20 minutes.
City-School Partnerships that Empower Anna’s Youth
As the new school year begins, we’re reminded of the vital role that strong city-school partnerships play in shaping a vibrant, resilient community. The City of Anna and Anna ISD have built a relationship over the years that extends well beyond the classroom, one grounded in collaboration, service, and opportunity.
This partnership is not symbolic; it’s practical and visible across many facets of our city’s operations. City departments regularly work alongside AISD staff and students through recurring programs such as job shadowing with high school life skills students, employability field trips for middle schoolers, and civic career presentations to younger grades. These activities give students a firsthand look at public service while allowing city staff to contribute meaningfully to youth development.
Our teams have supported the district’s events like the 5th Grade Job Fair and the Career Lunch & Learn series, helping students connect classroom learning with
real-world possibilities. Meanwhile, our workspaces have hosted teachers participating in a summer externship initiative, offering them insight into the functions and challenges of local government, knowledge they carry back into their classrooms.
The city’s commitment to inclusivity is also reflected in our continued involvement with Special Olympics events and our participation in the Best Buddies program. These initiatives affirm our belief that public service should uplift all residents, including those with diverse learning and developmental needs.
Partnerships like these don’t emerge overnight; they are cultivated through consistent engagement and mutual respect. As we move into another school year, we look forward to building on this momentum and working together with Anna ISD to prepare the next generation for leadership, service, and community impact.
UNPLUG HAVE FUN! &
ARTICLE BY PAM REID | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Summertime is the best time for kids to disconnect and enjoy being outdoors.
Long, long ago, in a time before technology, children entertained themselves and played endlessly with nothing more than ... wait for it ... their imagination. They played outdoors for hours with friends, balls, jump ropes, buckets, chalk, bicycles, you name it! The level of creativity saw no limits in the minds of these children. While some families have plans for getaway vacations, there are those planning to stay home and scrambling for things their children can do. We’d like to share some ideas that don’t include technology or cost a boat load of money for that matter. The benefits of spending time outdoors and unplugged outweigh complaints about temperature or those annoying creepy crawlers. The added bonus is that many outdoor games secretly teach life skills. Technology is used only to confirm game rules.
Ready or not, it’s time to play! A day - or two or three - full of outdoor games will invoke a trip down memory lane for some adults, or a “this is great” thought for others. In either case, playing these games has tremendous benefits - young people can fully embrace human connection, get a break from the instant gratification associated with technical devices and social media, and enjoy some good wholesome, age-appropriate fun. Many adults admit they played many of their favorite childhood games well into their teen years, and still others say they relish in a good game of dodgeball or tug of war today. This list is not all-inclusive, but it certainly gets the games started!
“READY OR NOT, IT’S TIME TO PLAY!”
CHILDHOOD GAMES
TUG OF WAR - contest between two teams at opposite ends of a rope; each team trying to drag the other across a center line.
SACK RACE - stand in your sack, hold on to the top of your sack and hop as fast as you can to the finish line!
FREEZE TAG - each player freezes when tagged and can be unfrozen only by a player who is not yet frozen. Game ends when all players are frozen.
RED LIGHT GREEN LIGHT - shout “green light” and all players run towards you, shout “yellow light” and they are allowed to walk, but when “red light” is shouted, they must stop and freeze. If player moves at “red light”, they go back to start line.
MUSICAL CHAIRS - walk to music around a group of chairs containing one chair fewer than number of players, and rush to sit down when music stops. The player left standing in each round is eliminated.
KICK THE CAN - find players in their hiding spots and put them in “jail”. Once a player is “jailed” the only way to be freed is for another player to beat the “IT” person to the can and kick it.
DODGEBALL - team sport in which players on two teams try to throw balls and hit opponents, while avoid being hit themselves. Consider water balloons instead of balls on a hot day.
There are more great outdoor games. Get unplugged and get outside!
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 1ST
Kenny Chesney covered by Barefoot Nation / Texas Wine
BarnHill Vineyards, 11917 County Rd, 509 Anna, TX 75409 | 6:45 PM
LIVE MUSIC by Barefoot Nation covering the best of Kenny Chesney. Get ready to sing along to your favorites like Get Along, The Good Stuff, No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems, American Kids, There Goes My Life, and many more.
AUGUST 2ND
Cars & Coffee - Van Alstyne
152 N Main Drive, Van Alstyne Texas 75495 Downtown Van Alstyne | 8:00 AM
If you like cars and coffee, this is the place to be! The Cars & Coffee – Van Alstyne group meet downtown on the first Saturday of every month (weather permitting) from 8:00am – 10:00am, show off some awesome rides and socialize. So, if you have a cool ride or just want to see 100 or so come on out!
AUGUST 7TH
Greater Anna Chamber of Commerce - Coffee & Connections
AISD Administration Building 151 W Rosamond Parkway Anna, TX 75409 | 7:45 AM
Join us on the first Thursday of every month for complimentary coffee and connections! In-person event from 7:45am-9am at the new AISD Administration Building at 151 W Rosamond Parkway Anna, TX 75409. All Greater Anna Chamber members are welcome to attend. Remember to bring your business cards.
GET INSPIRED EAT & DRINK
SHOP LOCAL
AUGUST 9TH
Sounds of Summer featuring Quiet Riot
215 E Van Alstyne Parkway Van Alstyne TX 75495 Central Social District Park | 7:30 PM
Bring a chair and your family and friends to join us at the Central Social District for a night of FREE Live music. Quiet Riot has been referred to as a rock and roll phenomenon having several singles that charted on the Billboard top 100 with their songs being featured on several movie soundtracks and video games.
AUGUST 12TH
Quarterly Panel/Workshop & Networking Luncheon - Melissa Chamber of Commerce
The Crossland Buidling 1904 Cooper St Melissa, TX 75454 | 11:00 AM
Our Quarterly Panel/Workshop & Networking Luncheons are a great learning and equipping tool for you & your business this year. More details to come as we get closer to the event itself. Register today & stay connected.
AUGUST 30TH
George
Strait covered by
Unwound - Family Friendly/ Texas Wine
Barn Hill Vineyards 11917 County Road 509 Anna, TX 75409 | 6:45 PM
ALL AGES / Family Friendly! Join us at BarnHill for a special night of music as we welcome Unwound: A Tribute to George Strait to the stage.
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