Crossland builds the athletic spaces where students compete, fans gather, and communities come together. From stadiums and field houses to press boxes, training areas, and campus-wide athletic improvements, our teams know how to deliver facilities that perform under pressure.
Across North Texas, we bring real building experience, schedule discipline, and a clear understanding of what it takes to build safely and efficiently in active school environments.
Real builders. Real results. Built for North Texas.
The Magic of Kids and Pets
There is something truly special about the bond between children and animals. Whether it's a loyal dog waiting at the door after school, a curious kitten curled up beside a child during story time, or a beloved family pet offering comfort on a difficult day, these relationships often become some of childhood's most treasured memories.
In this month's Kids & Pets issue, we celebrate the lessons, laughter, and love that come from grow ing up alongside our furry companions. Pets have a remarkable way of teaching responsibility, patience, empathy, and unconditional love. These are qualities that help shape character and create lasting memories.
We are excited to share several inspiring stories in this issue. Be sure to read about Hugs from Harrison, a heartwarming organization making a meaningful impact through comfort, connection, and compassion. You'll also find valuable tips in Back-to-School Basics, designed to help families prepare for a successful school year while balancing busy schedules and family life.
And don't miss Paws Build Character, an uplifting feature exploring how pets help children develop important life skills and emotional confidence that extend far beyond the home.
As our communities continue to grow, it's these everyday connections between families, neighbors, children, and pets that help make Anna, Melissa, and Van Alstyne such wonderful places to call home.
Thank you for inviting us into your homes each month. We hope this issue brings a smile to your face and reminds you of the joy, comfort, and life lessons that often come with four paws and a wagging tail.
Warm regards,
ANGIE TERRY, PUBLISHER @ANNACITYLIFESTYLE
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Angie Terry | angie.terry@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Shannon Roberts | shannon.roberts@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Kylee Terry
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Liz Nixon
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
With City Lifestyle’s co-branded print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online. Ready to double your local reach? Contact your local publisher by scanning below.
1: Anna Walks for a Cause 3: Chill Out with Cops 4: Anna High School Beta Club 5: Juneteenth Celebration 6: Coffee With Cops | Van Alstyne Police Association 7: National Police Week
MAILA LACHAN
MAILA LACHAN
Where They Treat Your Pets Like Our Own
The Animal Hospital of Melissa is dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality veterinary care, emergency services, and professional grooming. Their experienced team treats every pet like family, emphasizing preventive wellness and advanced medical care. Welcoming new patients, they are committed to helping pets live longer, healthier, and happier lives. Scan to read more
Where Every Child Feels at Home
Almost Grandma's Childcare in Van Alstyne provides a warm, nurturing environment where children are encouraged to learn, grow, and thrive. Inspired by the comfort of Grandma's house, their caring team creates lasting memories through love, encouragement, education, and joyful experiences during the most important years of a child's development.
Where Happy Pets Begin
Paw of the Family in Anna is the community's trusted destination for pet care and animal feed. From premium pet foods and farm supplies to self-service wash stations and professional grooming, they provide everything needed to keep pets and livestock healthy, happy, and well cared for all under one roof.
ARTICLE BY KYLEE TERRY
How the bond between kids and pets creates lifelong lessons in compassion, responsibility, and self-confidence
Paws Build
Character
In a world filled with screens, packed schedules, and endless distractions, one of the most powerful teachers a child can have may just be covered in fur, feathers, or even scales. Pets and animals offer more than companionship; they provide beneficial life lessons that help shape compassionate, confident, and emotionally resilient children.
Whether it’s a family dog greeting them after school, a rabbit waiting to be fed, or a horse that requires patience and trust. Pets have a unique way of bringing out the best in kids. The bond between children and animals often becomes a foundation for personal growth that lasts well into adulthood.
One of the most important attributes animals help develop is empathy. Caring for a pet helps teach children to recognize and respond to the needs of another living being. Animals cannot communicate verbally when they are hungry, tired, scared, or uncomfortable, so children learn to pay attention to body language and behavioral cues. This awareness encourages them to consider feelings outside of their own experiences.
When a child notices their dog is nervous during a thunderstorm or recognizes that a pet needs gentle care after a visit to the vet, they begin practicing compassion in real-life situations. These experiences help children develop emotional intelligence and a deeper understanding of kindness, both of which influence how they interact with friends, classmates, and family members.
Pets and animals also provide children with opportunities to develop responsibility. Feeding, grooming, exercising, and caring for a pet require consistency and commitment. While parents often supervise these tasks, children who participate in daily pet care quickly learn that living creatures depend on them.
Responsibility becomes more meaningful when children can see the direct impact of their actions. Filling a water bowl, taking a dog for a
walk, or cleaning a habitat reinforces the idea that their efforts matter. Over time, these small daily routines help children build accountability, discipline, and a sense of pride in contributing to the well-being of another living being.
Confidence often grows alongside responsibility. When children successfully care for an animal, they gain a sense of accomplishment. They learn that they can handle important tasks and make a positive difference. This feeling of competence can extend into other areas of life, including school, sports, and social situations.
Animals are also remarkably nonjudgmental companions. They don’t care about grades, athletic ability, or social status. They offer unconditional affection and acceptance, which can
"SOMETIMES THE SMALLEST PAWS LEAVE THE BIGGEST FOOTPRINTS ON A CHILD'S HEART AND ON THE PERSON THEY BECOME, TEACHING LESSONS OF KINDNESS, RESPONSIBILITY, EMPATHY, AND UNCONDITIONAL LOVE THAT LAST A LIFETIME AND SHAPE FUTURE GENERATIONS."
be especially beneficial for children navigating the challenges of growing up. A pet’s steady companionship can help children feel valued and secure, strengthening their self-esteem and encouraging them to be themselves.
For some children, animals can even serve as a bridge to social confidence. Talking about a beloved pet often helps children connect with peers who share similar interests. Participating in activities such as dog training classes, horseback riding, or animal-focused clubs can provide opportunities to build friendships and practice communication skills in a comfortable environment.
Animals can also teach resilience. Life with pets naturally introduces children to challenges, including illness, behavioral setbacks, and eventually loss. While these experiences can be difficult, they provide opportunities for children to learn healthy coping skills, patience, and perseverance with the support of caring adults.
Research and experience suggest that interactions with animals can help reduce stress and promote emotional well-being. Many children find comfort in petting a dog, cuddling a cat, or simply spending quiet time with an animal after a difficult day. This emotional support can help children regulate their feelings and build healthy strategies for managing life’s difficulties.
Animals encourage children to spend more time outdoors and engage with the world around them. Whether riding a horse or playing outside, interactions with animals inspire activity and curiosity. These experiences help children appreciate
nature, strengthen observation skills, and stay active. As many children spend more time indoors, animals provide a natural connection to the world beyond technology.
Importantly, children can build meaningful, beneficial relationships with animals in many ways, even if they don’t have a pet at home. Volunteering at animal shelters, visiting farms, participating in equestrian programs, or spending time with family pets can offer many of the same developmental benefits. The key is creating opportunities for meaningful, positive interactions with animals.
As parents and communities look for ways to raise kind, capable, and confident young people, the value of animals should not be overlooked. The lessons they teach are simple but profound: kindness matters, responsibility has purpose, patience produces trust, and love is often shown through actions rather than words.
The relationship between a child and an animal may seem ordinary on the surface, but its impact can be extraordinary. Through wagging tails, gentle nudges, and daily acts of care, animals help shape children into compassionate individuals who carry empathy, confidence, and responsibility with them throughout their lives.
A
Legacy of Love That Continues to Change Lives
HUGS FROM HARRISON
ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY HUGS FROM HARRISON FOUNDATION
For Harrison’s mother, honoring her son’s life through service was always part of the healing process.
Years before Harrison’s passing, the two had volunteered together through the NorthStar Chapter of Young Men’s Service League. Serving others had become one of their favorite ways to spend time together.
After losing Harrison, she knew she wanted his legacy to continue.
Within a year, Hugs From Harrison was officially established.
Although the organization had a name and a heart for serving others, its exact mission had not yet become clear.
Rather than rushing into a program, Harrison’s mother spent time praying, listening, and allowing healing to unfold.
She believed that if the foundation truly honored Harrison, the right opportunity would present itself. It did.
DISCOVERING THE MISSION
In early 2025, an elementary school principal approached Harrison’s mother with an idea.
She had children in her school who didn’t necessarily need tutoring or counseling.
They simply needed someone.
Someone to ask about their day.
Someone to cheer them on.
Someone to remind them they mattered.
The principal wondered if Hugs From Harrison could provide mentors for these students.
The answer was immediate.
This wasn’t just a good idea.
It was Harrison’s life in action.
He had spent years doing exactly that.
THE BIG H’S AND LITTLE H’S
Working alongside an incredible founding board and dedicated volunteers, Hugs From Harrison launched its first mentoring program by pairing 45 volunteer mentors, known as Big H’s, with 45 elementary students affectionately called Little H’s.
The program quickly became much more than anyone imagined.
Twice each month, mentors gather with students during lunch at school. They eat together.
Laugh together.
Play games.
Celebrate birthdays.
Talk about challenges.
Encourage dreams.
Most importantly, they simply spend time together.
Children begin looking forward to mentor days weeks in advance.
Teachers notice increased confidence.
Parents report positive changes at home.
Students who once sat quietly begin smiling more often and participating more confidently in class.
The program has since expanded into additional schools while introducing Grand H’s, grandparent-aged mentors who offer children the wisdom, consistency, and unconditional encouragement that only experience can provide.
The combination of multiple generations working together beautifully reflects the organization’s belief that everyone has something valuable to give.
CONTINUED >
"Your pain has purpose! Harrison's legacy is being written in the lives of every child who feels seen, supported, and accepted because of this foundation."
"Harrison's memory lives on, but in every child who receives a hug, feels accepted, and dares to believe in their own potential because of it."
THE EXTRAORDINARY POWER OF BEING CHOSEN
One of the most meaningful lessons the organization has learned is that children don’t need perfection.
They need presence.
Initially, foundation leaders assumed younger mentors might naturally connect best with elementary-aged students.
Instead, they discovered something much more profound.
Children don’t care about age.
They care about consistency.
They simply want someone who remembers their name.
Someone who asks how their soccer game went.
Someone who celebrates when they improve their reading scores.
Someone who notices when they’re having a difficult day.
For many Little H’s, being invited into the program marks the first time they’ve truly felt chosen.
That feeling alone begins changing how they see themselves.
Confidence grows.
Self-worth increases.
Hope begins replacing insecurity.
Often, the greatest gift isn’t advice.
It’s showing up.
A MATCH THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING
One young boy entered the mentoring program carrying years of emotional pain.
He had been relentlessly bullied because of his weight.
By the time he joined Hugs From Harrison, he trusted almost no one.
He arrived angry.
Quiet.
Withdrawn.
The foundation thoughtfully paired him with a Big H who had experienced nearly identical struggles growing up.
Rather than offering generic encouragement, the mentor shared pieces of his own story.
He talked honestly about feeling different.
About being teased.
About believing life would never get better.
Slowly, the child’s emotional walls began coming down.
For the first time, he realized someone truly understood. Their conversations became easier.
The smiles came more often.
By the end of their first meeting, the little boy was laughing.
Months later, he had become one of the program’s most enthusiastic participants.
His mentor hadn’t simply given advice.
He had given hope.
Sometimes healing begins when someone says, “I’ve been where you are.”
HEALING WHILE
HONORING HARRISON
Building Hugs From Harrison has transformed more than the lives of children.
It has also transformed Harrison’s family.
His mother openly shares that there was a season when speaking Harrison’s name felt impossible.
Every memory ended in tears.
Every conversation reopened wounds that seemed too deep to heal.
But healing doesn’t mean forgetting.
It means learning how love continues despite loss.
Through prayer, faith, and the support of family and friends, Harrison’s story slowly became easier to tell.
Today, moments of sadness still come unexpectedly.
They always will.
But alongside the grief now lives immense gratitude.
Every child who smiles because of a mentor.
Every volunteer who gives their time.
Every family strengthened through the foundation.
These moments remind Harrison’s family that his story continues to be written every single day.
A COMMUNITY THAT HAS EMBRACED THE MISSION
Hugs From Harrison has become far more than one family’s dream.
It has become a community movement.
Volunteers prepare and serve twice-monthly lunches at participating schools.
Meeting spaces are transformed with cheerful monthly themes that immediately create an atmosphere of joy.
Every Little H leaves each gathering with a small gift, not because of its monetary value, but because it reminds them someone was thinking about them.
The organization also hosts bowling nights, arcade outings, dinners, movie nights, and other special events that allow mentors and children to strengthen their friendships outside the classroom.
Parents frequently express gratitude for experiences their children may never have had otherwise.
Community businesses have enthusiastically stepped forward as sponsors, recognizing that investing in children creates stronger communities for everyone.
The foundation’s first annual cornhole tournament exceeded expectations, bringing together supporters from across North Texas who believe every child deserves to feel loved and accepted.
Perhaps one of the organization’s most remarkable qualities is its financial stewardship.
Because there are no salaried employees and virtually no administrative overhead, every donated dollar goes directly toward serving children and expanding the mentoring program.
Donors know their generosity is making an immediate and tangible difference.
LOOKING TOWARD TOMORROW
The vision for Hugs From Harrison continues growing with every new mentor, volunteer, school, and child.
The leadership dreams of expanding into schools throughout North Texas so that no child has to navigate life’s challenges alone.
They envision classrooms filled with confident students who know they matter.
Communities connected by compassion.
Adults willing to invest time in the next generation.
Children who one day grow up to become mentors themselves.
The ripple effect has only just begun.
A LEGACY THAT LIVES ON
For families experiencing unimaginable grief, Harrison’s mother offers words that come from personal experience rather than theory.
“You are not alone, and your child’s story is not over.”
She encourages families to allow others to walk alongside them, even when vulnerability feels
uncomfortable. Healing often comes through community, faith, and finding ways to honor those we love.
While grief never completely disappears, it can eventually coexist with purpose.
Today, Harrison’s legacy is measured not by the twenty-one years he lived, but by the countless lives still being transformed because of him.
Every mentor who faithfully shows up.
Every volunteer who serves a meal.
Every donor who gives generously.
Every teacher who partners with the foundation.
Every child who walks away believing they are worthy of love.
Each of these moments carries Harrison’s spirit forward.
The foundation’s motto beautifully captures what Harrison demonstrated throughout his life:
“SPREADING
ACCEPTANCE, ONE HUG AT A TIME.”
His legacy reminds us that changing the world rarely begins with grand gestures. More often, it starts with noticing someone who feels invisible, choosing kindness when it’s unexpected, listening without judgment, and showing up with consistency and compassion.
In every Big H who chooses to invest in a child, every Grand H who shares wisdom, every Little H who discovers confidence, and every volunteer who gives of their time, Harrison’s embrace continues.
His hugs may no longer be physical, but their impact is felt every single day.
And because of one remarkable young man whose greatest gift was making people feel seen, countless children are now discovering a truth that will shape the rest of their lives:
They matter. They are loved. And they are never alone.
F R O M L A N D At
T O L E G A C Y
Let’s talk about what your land c an become.
BACK TO SCHOOL BASICS
ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS
Setting Students Up for Success
As summer winds down and store aisles fill with notebooks, backpacks, and lunchboxes, families across North Texas begin preparing for another school year. While purchasing supplies is an important part of the process, successful back-to-school preparation goes beyond checking items off a list. Creating routines, fostering healthy habits, and encouraging a positive mindset can help students start the year feeling confident and ready to learn.
START WITH THE ESSENTIALS
Every student needs a strong foundation for success, and that begins with the basics. Before the first day of school, review supply lists provided by teachers and purchase items early to avoid last-minute stress. A sturdy backpack, quality pencils, notebooks, folders, and a dependable water bottle are staples for students of all ages.
Equally important is ensuring children have properly fitting shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. As students grow quickly during the summer months, taking inventory of their wardrobes before shopping can help families avoid unnecessary purchases and ensure children feel comfortable and confident in the classroom.
REESTABLISH HEALTHY ROUTINES
One of the biggest challenges families face after summer break is adjusting to a schoolyear schedule. A week or two before classes begin, start moving bedtimes and wake-up times closer to the school routine.
Adequate sleep plays a critical role in academic performance, focus, and emotional well-being. School-age children typically need between nine and twelve hours of sleep each night, depending on age. Establishing consistent routines before school starts can make those early mornings significantly easier.
Meal planning is another important consideration. Preparing simple breakfast options and organizing lunch supplies ahead of time helps reduce morning chaos and ensures students begin their day fueled for success.
CREATE AN ORGANIZED LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
Whether homework is completed at the kitchen table or in a dedicated study area, having an organized space for learning can improve concentration and productivity.
Stock the area with basic supplies such as pencils, paper, chargers, and a calendar for tracking assignments and activities. Consider creating a family command center where important dates, permission slips, and extracurricular schedules are easily accessible. Organization skills developed at home often carry over into the classroom, helping students stay on top of assignments and responsibilities throughout the year.
ENCOURAGE A POSITIVE MINDSET
The beginning of a new school year often brings excitement, but it can also create anxiety. New teachers, unfamiliar classmates, and increased academic expectations can feel overwhelming for some students.
Parents can help by discussing goals, listening to concerns, and emphasizing growth rather than perfection. Encourage children to focus on learning, making friends, and trying their best rather than worrying about achieving flawless results.
Celebrating small successes and maintaining open communication can help build confidence and resilience throughout the year.
BALANCE ACADEMICS AND ACTIVITIES
While academics remain a priority, students also benefit from participating in sports, clubs, music programs, and community activities. These experiences help develop leadership skills, teamwork, creativity, and self-confidence.
The key is maintaining balance. Overscheduling can lead to stress and burnout for both children and parents. Regular family time, physical activity, and opportunities to relax are just as important as academic achievement.
A FRESH START FOR EVERYONE
Back-to-school season represents more than new supplies and fresh schedules; it offers a chance for a fresh start. By focusing on preparation, organization, healthy habits, and encouragement, families can help students approach the new year with confidence and enthusiasm.
Anna’s
City Manager’s Monthly Update
As August arrives, our community begins the transition from summer fun to a new school year filled with opportunities, routines, and exciting milestones. Whether you’re preparing students for their first day of class, enjoying the final weeks of summer break, or looking ahead to fall activities, plenty is happening throughout Anna this month.
As students return to school, we encourage everyone to stay alert in school zones and follow posted traffic laws to help keep our students, families, and school staff safe. We also remind neighbors to stay hydrated and take precautions during the hottest days of the summer season.
One of the most exciting updates this month is the launch of Anna’s new emergency notification system, Everbridge. This enhanced platform will help neighbors stay informed during severe weather, emergency situations, traffic impacts, and
other important community updates. Neighbors can customize their notifications by selecting specific neighborhoods and the types of alerts they would like to receive, ensuring they get the information that matters most to them. We encourage everyone to sign up and stay connected by visiting annatexas.gov/Everbridge.
Looking ahead, the Fall Activity Guide will be available soon and will feature a variety of upcoming programs, events, and recreational opportunities for neighbors of all ages. We look forward to another season of bringing our community together through activities, events, and shared experiences.
As we welcome a new school year and begin looking toward the fall season, August serves as a reminder of the importance of preparation, connection, and community. Thank you for continuing to make Anna such a great place to live.
A CommunityUnited for Brody
A community comes together to help a young neighbor in his fight against leukemia
The Anna community recently came together for a powerful display of compassion, support, and hope during the Anna Walks for a Cause event benefiting 14-yearold Anna resident, Brody Fisher.
The event brought together friends, family members, neighbors, local businesses, and community supporters, all united by one common goal: standing beside Brody and his family as he courageously battles leukemia. While the walk itself served as the centerpiece of the event, the day represented something much greater than a fundraiser. It became a visible reminder of the strength and generosity that define the Anna community.
Leukemia is a challenging diagnosis that affects not only the individual receiving treatment but also the entire family.
Frequent medical appointments, treatments, hospital stays, and related expenses can place tremendous emotional and financial strain on loved ones. Recognizing these challenges, community members stepped forward to help ease some of that burden while showing the Fisher family that they are surrounded by people who care.
Participants of all ages gathered to walk in support of Brody, creating an atmosphere filled with encouragement, positivity, and determination. Many attendees wore matching shirts, carried signs of support, and shared messages of hope throughout
ARTICLE BY ANGIE TERRY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAILA LACHAN
the event. The collective presence of so many community members sent a powerful message: Brody is not facing this fight alone. Funds raised through Anna Walks for a Cause will go directly toward Brody’s medical care and related expenses. Every dollar contributed represents more than financial assistance; it represents a community investing in one of its own during a challenging time. The event also helped raise awareness about leukemia and the realities many families face while navigating treatment and recovery.
One of the most inspiring aspects of the day was the overwhelming participation from residents and businesses. Sponsors, volunteers, donors, and attendees each played a key role in making the event a success. Their generosity demonstrated how a community can come together when one of its members needs support the most.
Throughout the event, stories were shared about Brody’s strength, resilience, and positive attitude. Those who know him
describe a young man who continues to face challenges with courage and determination. The walk became an opportunity to celebrate that fighting spirit while reminding residents that an entire community is cheering them on every step of the way.
Events like this walk highlight the unique bond that exists within small communities. When families face difficult circumstances, neighbors often become extended family, offering support in countless ways. Whether through donations, volunteer efforts, prayers, encouraging
words, or simply showing up to walk, every act of kindness contributes to a larger message of hope.
The success of Anna Walks for a Cause serves as a testament to the caring hearts that make Anna such a special place to live. It demonstrated that when challenges arise, this community responds with generosity, compassion, and unwavering support.
As Brody continues his journey, the memories and encouragement from this event will remain a powerful reminder that he has an entire town standing behind him. The walk may have lasted only a day, but the impact will continue far beyond the event itself.
For Brody Fisher and his family, the walk was more than a community gathering; it was a heartfelt expression of love, support, and hope from a town determined to walk alongside them every step of the way.
If you would like to donate, please contact Maila Lachan at Farmers Bank & Trust, who can assist you with depositing funds directly into the family’s account. If you prefer to donate through Venmo, Brody’s mother’s Venmo is venmo.com/u/Somer-Fisher
ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS
Editor's CornerTop 5 Dog Breeds for Families
DISCOVER THE LOYAL, LOVING BREEDS THAT MAKE PERFECT FAMILY COMPANIONS
A family dog is more than a pet; it becomes a loyal companion, trusted friend, and beloved member of the household. When choosing a family dog, consider your lifestyle, activity level, and available space to ensure the perfect match for both your family and your future furry friend.
Labrador Retriever
Labradors consistently rank as one of America’s favorite family dogs. They are friendly, intelligent, highly trainable, and love spending time with both children and adults.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This affectionate breed loves human interaction and adapts well to various living situations, from apartments to larger homes.
Beagle
Beagles are cheerful, curious, and energetic. Their manageable size and social nature make them excellent companions for families with children.
Golden Retriever
Known for their sweet disposition and loyalty, Golden Retrievers are affectionate companions that enjoy playtime, outdoor adventures, and family gatherings.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Often called gentle giants, Bernese Mountain Dogs are patient, loyal, and protective while remaining calm and loving around children.
Shannon Roberts, Editor
TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
AUGUST 2026
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 3RD
2026 MISD Convocation and Teacher of the Year Awards
Melissa High School - The Arena 3030 Milrany Lane Melissa | 9:00 AM
Chamber members get to celebrate and give back to the best of the best in our Melissa schools! Each school chooses its Teacher of the Year, while the District chooses a District Teacher of the Year to be awarded. Along with that, each MISD department nominates their staffer of the year to be recognized as well.
AUGUST 6TH
Coffee & Connections – Greater Anna Chamber of Commerce
AISD Administration Building 151 W Rosamond Parkway Anna, TX 75409 | 7:30 AM
Greater Anna Chamber of Commerce hosts the first Thursday of every month for complimentary coffee and connections!
AUGUST 6TH
Senior Center Bingo
Van Alstyne Senior Center | 148 S Main Street, Van Alstyne, TX 75495 | 12:00 PM
Join 55+ Senior Bingo at the Van Alstyne Senior Center for an afternoon of fun!
AUGUST 6TH
Preschool Storytime
Van Alstyne Public Library | 588 W A Denton Drive Van Alstyne, Texas | 10:30 AM
Preschool Storytime fun! Ages 0-5 years old.
The Van Alstyne Public Library hosts Preschool Storytime on Thursdays at 10:30 AM. Due to ongoing renovations, these sessions are held at the Van Alstyne Recreation
AUGUST 8TH
Sounds of Summer Concert: The Bellamy Brothers
152 North Main Van Alstyne, Texas | 7:30 PM
The family-friendly event is free to attend and takes place at the Central Social District Park in Van Alstyne.
AUGUST 13TH
Adult
Knitting & Crocheting Club
Melissa Public Library, Community Room (3411 Tiblets Rd, Melissa, TX) | 2:00 PM
This crafty bunch of needle workers is meeting up to have a good time starting something new or working on an unfinished project! Come join us!
Izabell Peltier | Anna HS
It is with immense pleasure to announce Izabell Peltier as the Outstanding Student-Athlete of the Month, as selected by the Anna Independent School District Athletic Coaching Team.
Izabell begins her senior year, and as a Varsity Cheer captain, she is making every moment count both on and off the mat. Serving as a base, she takes pride in being someone her teammates can rely on, demonstrating leadership, dedication, and a positive attitude throughout every season.
Beyond cheerleading, she is an active member of the National Honor Society, where she enjoys giving back to her school and community. Her commitment to academics earned her an Academic Achievement Award in 2025, reflecting the same determination she brings to athletics. Reading and writing are her favorite subjects, allowing her to explore new stories while expressing her own creativity.
Her favorite collegiate sports team is Navarro Cheer, whose incredible routines and teamwork inspire her to continue striving for excellence. While many see her confidence on the sidelines, few realize she begins preparing four hours before every game. That routine helps her relax, focus, and build the confidence she needs before performing.
White is her favorite color for its timeless simplicity. During her final year of high school, her goal is to cherish every game, every cheer, and every memory shared with her teammates.
After graduation, she plans to attend college and pursue a career as a registered nurse. Inspired by a desire to care for others and make a meaningful difference, she is excited to begin the next chapter while carrying the lessons of leadership, teamwork, and compassion into her future.
Congratulations to Izabell and her selection as the August Outstanding Student-Athlete of the Month!
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SAVINGS
• 3.00% APY*
• For minors under the age of 18
• No minimum to open or service fees
• Account must be opened with parent/guardian
*Annual
1/1/2026
STUDENT CHECKING
• For ages 13-20*
• $20 minimum to open
• No service fees
*If under 18 must be opened jointly with a parent/guardian at a branch location Must be 18 or older open account online
