HEALTH & WELLNESS H E A LTH + W E LLN E S S
AN N A DENTAL - CELEBRATIN G 20 YE ARS O F E XCEPTIO N AL CARE & CO M MU N IT Y H O M E TOW N H E R O
SU PPO RT H ERO ES PARK IN VAN AL ST YN E - I NCLUSIV E PL AYGROU N D FO R H E ALTHY PL AY AN D ALL ABILITIES!
JA N UA RY 2 02 6
LIFESTYLE LETTER
New Year, New Path to Wellness As we step into a new year, our focus shifts to health, wellness, and finding balance amidst busy seasons. This issue is dedicated to embracing habits that help you feel the best in your mind, body, and spirit, especially as winter settles in. We hope these pages encourage you to pause, breathe, and reconnect with what truly nourishes you. We’re excited to bring you a lineup of inspiring features that highlight the strength, heart, and vitality within our community. Inside, you’ll discover a special story celebrating a meaningful 20-year milestone for a local dentist, a closer look at Heroes Park and the purpose behind it, and a refreshing guide designed to help you boost your winter glow. Each feature offers something unique, and we can’t wait for you to dive in. Our goal with every issue is simple: to encourage, uplift, and bring people together through meaningful stories and valuable insights. Whether you’re exploring new ways to care for your health, seeking motivation to stay active, or simply looking for content that brightens your day and sparks a sense of connection, we hope this issue leaves you feeling inspired, refreshed, and ready to embrace the new year. Thank you for being part of our community and for joining us as we continue to celebrate health and wellness in all its forms. May this season bring you warmth, renewal, and moments of true well-being. Warm regards,
January 2026 PUBLISHER
Angie Terry | angie.terry@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R
Shannon Roberts | shannon.roberts@citylifestyle.com
Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
A N G I E T E R R Y, P U B L I S H E R @ A N N AC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Anna City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Anna area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.
Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/ANNA
4
L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Anna City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
Anna Living
DISCOVER THE VILLAGES OF HURRICANE CREEK-A COMMUNITY BUILT FOR CONNECTION, CONVENIENCE, AND EVERYDAY LIVING.
inside the issue JANUARY 20 2 6 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S
12 28
18
Featured
12 18 24 28 6
24 On the Cover
Smiles, Service & Celebration
Celebrating 20 Years of Exceptional Care & Community
Support Heroes Park!
A Vision of Inclusive Play in the Heart of Van Alstyne
Financial Health Check-up! 3 Steps to Check Your Money Health
Winter Glow Boost
Essential Steps to Boost Moisture, Restore Your Glow!
Photography: Courtesy of Anna Dental
Departments 4
Lifestyle Letter
8
City Scene
10
Business Monthly
12
Family Care HEALTH + WELLNESS
18
Hometown Hero FITNESS
24
Financial Buzz FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES
28
Skin Care STYLE + BEAUTY
32
Trend Setter HEALTH + WELLNESS
34
Events
Let’s toast to protection that lasts all year! the party ends at midnight, but mayhem doesn’t. Start the new year with coverage you can count on - no matter what surprises come your way!
The Heatherly Agency 2100 W. White Street, ste. 200 anna, tx 972-562-9263 Kari.Heatherly@allstate.com
JANUARY 2026
city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1
2
3
5
7
DANNY MCFADDEN
4
DANNY MCFADDEN
6
DANNY MCFADDEN
1: VA Police Association Fundraising Gala 3: Greater Anna Chamber of Commerce Golf Tourney 6: Ora Bell Russell Elementary School Ground-Breaking
Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ A N N A C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E
8
C I T Y SC E N E
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.
DIRT OUR COMPANY VALUES
Dependability Integrity Relationships Trust
We are a specialized real estate brokerage focused on land sales for diverse developments. From consultation and site selection to negotiations, due diligence, and closing, we manage the entire process. With deep market insights, strong industry connections, and proven expertise, we help clients maximize their land investments. Whether for residential, multifamily, industrial, or commercial projects, our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional results and long-term success
RECENTLY CLOSED DEALS CORNERSTONE
MILLEN
Future Commercial Development, 41 ac, Near McKinney International Airport
Future Residential Development Prosper ISD, 26 ac
www.rpretx.com | 469.651.5263 | info@rpretx.com
JANUARY 2026
business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S
Trusted Wellness & Personalized Care Your Healthcare in Anna is a trusted wellness center dedicated to delivering personalized, compassionate care for individuals and families. The clinic provides services that support overall health, including preventive care, chronic condition management, and tailored treatment plans. With a welcoming environment and a strong commitment to accessible, high-quality care, Your Healthcare remains a dependable partner in the community’s long-term wellness.
Scan to read more
Power, Strength, & Results Barbarian Performance in Melissa is a high-energy fitness facility focused on strength, conditioning, and performance-driven training. Known for its motivating atmosphere and expert coaching, the gym helps members push past limits and build real, measurable results. With personalized guidance and a tightknit community feel, Barbarian Performance offers a powerful environment for anyone serious about improving health, power, and overall athletic capability.
Scan to read more
Where Wellness Meets Beauty Lux Aesthetic Medical Spa in Van Alstyne provides an elegant and welcoming environment for aesthetic and wellness services. With skilled professionals offering skin rejuvenation, injectables, and personalized anti-aging treatments, the spa blends beauty and health to help clients feel refreshed and confident. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a refined wellness experience rooted in both medical expertise and aesthetic finesse.
Scan to read more
Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / A N N A
10
B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
SMILES, Service, ARTICLE BY ANGIE TERRY
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ANNA DENTAL
CELEBRATION Celebrating 20 Years of Exceptional Care & Community
Anna Dental, one of the city’s first modern dental practices, recently celebrated 20 years of exceptional care, heartfelt service, and deep-rooted community connection. What began in 2004 with a single dentist and a simple vision has evolved into one of the region’s most trusted and respected dental homes. Today, they proudly reflect on two decades of brightening smiles, supporting local organizations, and growing right alongside the town it calls home. From day one, founder Dr. Jeffrey Ludlow believed that Anna deserved access to high-quality dental care without having to travel to larger cities. His philosophy was straightforward yet powerful: combining leading-edge dentistry with the warmth, familiarity, and personal attention that define small-town life. As Anna has grown from a quiet community into a vibrant, fast-growing city, Anna Dental has also expanded while maintaining its commitment to excellence, compassion, and innovation. When they first opened their doors, Dr. Ludlow’s goal was to create a place where patients of all ages felt welcome, understood, and genuinely cared for. Twenty years later, that vision has flourished into a practice known for expertise, comfort, and a family-friendly environment. Today, their team includes five experienced doctors whose combined 55-plus years of clinical experience allow them to deliver comprehensive care from preventive dentistry and restorative treatments to cosmetic transformations that change lives.
Their philosophy is simple: dentistry should be precise, advanced, and deeply personal. To support this mission, Anna Dental has continued to invest in state-of-the-art technology. Patients benefit from same-day crowns, digital X-rays, cone beam 3D imaging, and a host of modern tools typically found in major city practices. Yet despite its high-tech capabilities, the practice remains warm and welcoming, with a team known for building relationships that last for generations. Families who visited in the early years now bring their children and grandchildren for everything from first checkups to full mouth restorations. Many staff members have been with the office for years, offering a sense of continuity that patients cherish. Generations of families return because the experience at Anna Dental goes well beyond clinical care. It is rooted in trust, familiarity, and genuine connection. They are known for providing more than cleanings and fillings. Over the years, the practice has performed life-changing smile makeovers that restore confidence and brighten futures. Patients often leave with renewed self-esteem, knowing that their new smile will impact personal, social, and professional aspects of their lives. But the impact of Anna Dental extends far beyond the dental chair. The practice has become a true community partner, donating more than $200,000 to local causes and providing millions of dollars in free dentistry to those in need. These efforts stem from a belief deeply embedded in the practice’s culture: caring for the community is just as important as caring for teeth. CONTINUED >
12
FAM ILY CA R E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS
“When we invest in new technology, it’s because we believe our patients deserve the very best care available.”
JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A N N A
13
“Seeing the community grow while growing One of its most meaningful traditions is the annual charity golf tournament, which benefits the Anna ISD Education Foundation. The event helps fund scholarships for graduating seniors, allowing students to pursue higher education and follow their dreams. Anna Dental also supports first responders, educators, local nonprofits, and families facing hardships. These acts of service reflect the practice’s genuine commitment to strengthening and uplifting the community it serves. To commemorate the 20-year milestone, they hosted Smiles of Gratitude Week. The weeklong celebration was designed as a heartfelt thank-you to the community that has made the practice’s success possible. The special activities included complimentary Starbucks coffee for residents and a Chick-fil-A drive-through lunch giveaway. They also delivered meals to the Anna Police Department, Anna Fire Department, and Anna ISD Administration. Each gesture is meant to honor the people who help make the community safe, supported, and connected. One of the most unique aspects of Anna Dental’s identity is its Signature Plan, an all-inclusive membership program that eliminates traditional dental insurance hurdles. For a simple monthly fee, patients receive comprehensive care without deductibles, copays, or surprise bills. The plan has become especially popular among families, offering transparency and peace of mind. Team members frequently express how meaningful it is to provide a service that feels honest, simple, and neighborly. This patient-centered approach is a major reason the practice has earned more than 1,100 five-star Google reviews from residents of Anna, Melissa, Van Alstyne, and surrounding areas. Patients consistently praise the team’s friendliness, professionalism, and commitment to comfort. High-tech care, warm hearts, and an authentic small-town feel have become the signature of Anna Dental. The heart of their success lies not in its technology or treatment offerings but in the relationships it has built over 20 years. Generations of families have walked through the doors, often greeted by familiar faces who know their names, their stories, and their milestones. Many describe the experience as visiting family rather than simply going to the dentist.
14
FAM ILY CA R E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS
alongside it has been one of the greatest honors of my career. Anna has trusted us for 20 years, and we do not take that trust lightly.”
The practice’s commitment to community involvement is equally strong. From Wreaths Across America to teacher appreciation lunches, support for local first responders, and participation in local events and remembrance activities, Anna Dental continues to make service a core part of its identity. These efforts have helped shape a legacy built on gratitude, generosity, and genuine care. As Anna grows, so does the practice’s dedication to meeting the evolving needs of local families. The team remains focused on advancing dental care through ongoing education, innovative technology, and a steady commitment to making every patient feel known, supported, and valued. For Dr. Ludlow and the entire Anna Dental team, the 20th anniversary is more than a celebratory moment; it’s a reflection of thousands of shared memories, restored smiles, early-morning emergencies, community events, and friendships that have developed over two decades. “Our goal is to continue providing exceptional care, supporting our community, and creating smiles that last a lifetime,” Dr. Ludlow says. As Anna Dental enters its third decade, one thing is clear: the next 20 years will be just as bright and just as full of smiles, service, and hometown pride!
JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A N N A
15
HAVE YOU PREPARED FOR THE WINTER WEATHER YET? Here are a few tips: Bring pets indoors. Cover outdoor plants. Disconnect hoses, insulate outdoor faucets and turn off your irrigation system. Open cabinet doors under sinks to keep pipes warm. Drip faucets. Sign up for Emergency Alerts from Anna: annatexas.gov/hyperreach. Follow the city’s social media accounts and subscribe to our e-newsletter: annatexas.gov/socialmedia. Save these numbers to your phone: For water and sewer emergencies after 5 p.m.: 214-585-7725 Police Non-emergency: 972-924-2848.
WWW.ANNATEXAS.GOV
Small-Town Vibes
Big-Time Options
Grounded in Community Driven by Development
In Anna, small businesses thrive alongside a growing community. We’ve built a strong, balanced local economy that supports local entrepreneurs, creates quality jobs close to home, and invests in the kind of infrastructure, housing, and public spaces that bring neighbors together and keep our hometown spirit alive
16
No matter the size or style of your business—startup, storefront, or something in between—Anna is ready to welcome you. Our community is growing with intention, investing not only in the city’s future but in the success of every business that chooses to call Anna home. Here, you’ll find support, opportunity, and a place where your business can truly belong.
REMEMBER THE 5 P’S
Phone Pipes Plants Pets People
Advertisement
OUTSTANDING STUDENT ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
Sponsored by Lamar National Bank
Blake Morgan | Anna HS It is with immense pleasure to announce Blake Morgan as the Outstanding Student-Athlete of the Month, as selected by the Anna Independent School District Athletic Coaching Team. As a senior at Anna High School, he is known not only for his talent on the baseball field but also for his dedication to academics and his community. His favorite class, Advanced Physical Science, highlights the curiosity and dedication he carries into everything he does. While he excels in sports, his interests extend well beyond the classroom and the diamond. Light blue has long been his favorite color, and he proudly supports any collegiate team from the University of Oklahoma. Off the field, people are often surprised to learn that he is an enthusiastic follower of Formula One racing. His passion for the sport began when he was much younger, and he continues to follow it closely today.
On the field, he plays Right Fielder for the Varsity Baseball team and serves as a Team Captain, a role that speaks to his leadership, work ethic, and commitment to his teammates. Outside of his own training and responsibilities, he devotes significant time to giving lessons to younger players in the community, teaching them the fundamentals of the game he loves. This school year, his goals include keeping his grades a top priority while helping lead his team toward a playoff run. Looking ahead, his ambitions reach even higher. He plans to pursue aviation at the University of Oklahoma, with a dream of becoming a pilot. To jump-start that journey, he aims to earn his Private Pilot License following the baseball season, setting the foundation for a bright and determined future. Congratulations to Blake and his selection as the January Outstanding Student-Athlete of the Month!
Anna Pride & Hometown Banking A W I N N I N G CO M B I N AT I O N !
1515 W White St Anna, TX 75409 lamarnationalbank.com | (945) 732-4300
Lobby: 9:00am - 5:00pm Drive Through: 8:00am - 5:00pm
SUPPORT
Heroes Park!
18
H OM E TOWN H E R O | FI TNE SS
A VISION OF INCLUSIVE PLAY IN THE HEART OF VAN ALSTYNE
ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS
In the growing city of Van Alstyne, Texas, an exciting community-building initiative is taking shape thanks to the leadership of the Van Alstyne Police Association (VAPA). The association’s latest project aims not just to build a playground—but to establish a vibrant, inclusive space where children of all ages and abilities can gather, play, imagine, and connect with local heroes. The project, formally termed Heroes Park, will bring to life a first-responder-themed, all-inclusive playground planned located directly in front of the new Van Alstyne Public Safety Facility. The intent: build more than a set of swings and slides, but a place where every child is welcome, where families can gather, and where the connection between the community and its public-safety partners is strengthened.
THE NEED & THE OPPORTUNITY
When the city commenced construction of a new public safety building, set to house police, firefighters, and dispatchers, a beloved public playground at North Park was demolished to accommodate the change. Because the city’s budget did not cover the replacement playground, the Van Alstyne Police Association stepped in to fill this gap. VAPA’s founder and president, Bethany Budgewater, noted that the project is a community imperative: “It’s a need that we have here… and so we will get there.” Bethany Budgewater is the dedicated founder and president of the Van Alstyne Police Association, a nonprofit she launched to support local officers and strengthen the bond between law enforcement and the community. Through her leadership, the association has become a trusted resource for fundraising, officer assistance, and community outreach, stepping in when families face hardship or specialized needs. Bethany’s commitment goes beyond administration, she actively coordinates events, mobilizes local support, and advocates for those who serve. Her vision, compassion, and hands-on approach have made the association a vital pillar in Van Alstyne’s efforts to care for its police officers and their families.
WHAT HEROES PARK WILL LOOK LIKE
The vision for Heroes Park is thoughtfully inclusive, and purpose driven. According to the VAPA: CONTINUED >
JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A N N A
19
• The playground is designed for children of all ages and abilities, ensuring accessibility and universal design • It is located strategically “right in front of the public-safety building,” giving children the chance to meet and interact with officers and first responders on a first-name basis, building trust, familiarity, and positive relationships. • The branding includes a playful monkey character named “Dale,” who already sits on a “shiny slide” thanks to the first $100,000 in funds raised. The website describes this as “Dale’s first step.” Dale is named in memory of a police detective that VAPA assisted with cancer treatment and final arrangements. • Each $100,000 funding milestone brings a new piece of playground “magic.” So far, the slide is in place; the remainder of the equipment (swings, climbing walls, seesaws, accessible surfaces) is awaiting funding. By designing the project this way, VAPA is not just creating a playground, but embedding meaningful connections: first-responders met on friendly ground, children of all abilities included, families gathering, and the local community strengthened.
HOW THE FUNDRAISER WORKS
VAPA has adopted a multifaceted approach to raising the $840,000 needed. Some of the key fundraising strategies include: • Direct donations & sponsorships: Community members, businesses, and philanthropic supporters are invited to contribute one-time, monthly, or annual gifts. • Sponsorship tiers & milestones: As each $100,000 milestone is reached, a new playground component is added, encouraging donors to “see” the impact of their contributions. You can also sponsor a specific piece of the playground!
• Community engagement events: The association is leveraging raffles (such as autographed guitars by notable musicians) to raise funds and boost awareness. For example: tickets are just $5 each, proceeds go toward Heroes Park. • Volunteers & committees: A dedicated “Playground Committee” has been formed to spread the word, coordinate sponsorships, and maintain momentum until the project is fully funded. VAPA is mobilizing the community, creating visible milestones, and giving supporters multiple ways to engage.
WHY IT MATTERS
1. Inclusivity & accessibility Many playgrounds are built with able-bodied children in mind. Heroes Park is intentionally inclusive for children with disabilities, mobility differences, sensory needs, and varying ages will all be able to play together. This sends a powerful message: in Van Alstyne, every child belongs. 2. Strengthening community-public safety bonds By locating the playground near the public-safety building and creating opportunities for children to meet officers and first responders casually, the project fosters familiarity and trust. In today’s climate, building personal connections contributes to safer, stronger community relationships. 3. Investing in healthy childhoods and local spaces Playgrounds are more than swings, they’re where children develop physically, socially, emotionally, and creatively. For Van Alstyne, this means investing in the next generation, in a vibrant downtown or near-downtown community space that benefits residents and enhances quality of life. CONTINUED >
20
H OM E TOWN H E R O | FI TNE SS
JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A N N A
21
22
H OM E TOWN H E R O | FI TNE SS
4. Community pride & identity The “first-responder themed” playground acknowledges and honors local heroes while also rooting in the space in the culture of Van Alstyne. It creates a unique identity and draws a connection between the service of public-safety teams and the joy of childhood play.
Heroes Park: An inclusive playground that ensures kids of all
GET INVOLVED — 5 WAYS TO CONTRIBUTE
1. Donate directly: Visit the VAPA website (https:// vanalstynepa.org) and click on the Playground Fundraiser page to make a one-time or recurring gift. 2. Become a sponsor: Business owners and individuals can explore sponsorship opportunities, naming rights, milestone representation, etc. 3. Participate in fundraising events: Buy raffle tickets (e.g., autographed guitars), join community events, and share the cause on social media to help raise awareness. 4. Join the Playground Committee: If you want to roll up your sleeves and help with outreach, event planning, or fundraising strategy, there’s a committee you can join. 5. Spread the word: Even if you can't give financially right now, sharing the fundraiser with friends, neighbors, local businesses and on social media helps build momentum and community engagement.
LOOKING AHEAD
“All proceeds benefit
With the first $100,000 milestone already achieved (and “Dale the Monkey” already enjoying the slide), the task now shifts to bringing the remaining pieces of the vision to life. There remains a substantial fundraising gap to hit the full projected cost of $840,000. As funds grow, the key next steps will include finalizing the design and construction contracts, scheduling installation of the inclusive playground equipment, and planning a grand opening event to bring the community together. It’s likely that as each piece is added, swings, climbing walls, seesaws,
abilities have a place to play, laugh, and grow together.” accessible surface, the visible progress will inspire further support. Through every $100k milestone, VAPA invites the community to see how a donation becomes a tangible part of the playground. That transparency and sense of ownership help build long-term community buy-in. The Van Alstyne Police Association’s playground fundraiser isn’t just about installing playground equipment: it’s about building connections, inclusivity, and community pride. Heroes Park represents a space where children of all abilities can play side by side, where local heroes are part of the daily landscape, and where the community says: we’re in this together. For Van Alstyne, this is more than a project, it’s a legacy. Whether you donate, volunteer, or simply spread the word, your involvement helps ensure that the next generation has a safe and fun place to grow and play. Let’s rally together, Van Alstyne, and bring this vision to life!
BETHANY BUDGEWATER
Bethany Budgewater, Founder & President of VAPA
Bethany Budgewater is the founder and president of the Van Alstyne Police Association, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting local officers and strengthening community partnerships. Since establishing the organization, she has led efforts to assist first responders, coordinate fundraising initiatives, and champion projects such as Heroes Park. Known for her compassion, leadership, and commitment to service, Bethany works tirelessly to ensure officers and their families receive meaningful support while fostering a stronger, more connected Van Alstyne community. JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A N N A
23
3 Steps to Check Your Money Health
Financial Health Check-up! Just like our physical well-being, our financial health needs regular checkups to stay in top shape. A money health check-up helps you identify strengths, spot weaknesses, and make better decisions for the future. Here’s a simple three-step process to get your finances back on track.
ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS
24
F IN A N CIA L BU Z Z | FI NANCE + LE GAL SE RVICE S
Step 1: Assess Your Current Financial Status Begin by taking a clear snapshot of your finances. List all your income sources, monthly expenses, debts, and assets. Review your bank statements and credit report to ensure accuracy. Knowing exactly what’s coming in and going out is the foundation of healthy money management. Identify any unnecessary expenses or recurring subscriptions you no longer use. This step often reveals areas where you can save more or redirect funds toward long-term goals.
Step 2: Set Realistic Financial Goals Once you understand where you stand, decide where you want to go. Set both short-term and long-term goals, whether that’s building an emergency fund, paying off credit cards, saving for a down payment, or investing for retirement. Make your goals SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Clear goals help you stay focused and motivated while preventing financial drift.
Step 3: Create and Maintain a Financial Plan Now it’s time to put your plan into action. Create a realistic monthly budget that aligns with your goals. Automate savings and debt payments, when possible, to stay consistent. Regularly review your budget—at least once a quarter—to adjust for life changes or unexpected expenses. Consider meeting with a financial advisor for professional guidance on insurance, investments, and tax efficiency. A money health check-up isn’t a one-time task—it’s an ongoing process. By routinely reviewing your financial situation, setting goals, and following a sustainable plan, you’ll build financial confidence and long-term security. Healthy finances mean less stress, more freedom, and a stronger foundation for your future.
JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A N N A
25
CONTACT US
972-428-2030
26
https://essexhoa.com/
ENR #50 2024 Ranking
ENGINEERING NEWS RECORD
8
#
LARGEST GENERAL CONTRACTORS BY DALLAS BUSINESS JOURNAL
Built for the people who keep our communities running. Our teams partner with municipalities to deliver facilities that make an impact functionally and financially. From service centers to maintenance hubs, we build with intention, maximizing value for the people who rely on them. With dozens of successful projects over the past five years, we’re proud to help communities thrive - one facility at a time.
Located in: Prosper, Texas and Fort Worth, Texas
www.crossland.com
Check out our Texas Division!
WINTER
GLOW BOOST Essential Steps to Boost Moisture, Restore Your Glow! ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS As temperatures drop and the air becomes dry, your skin’s natural moisture barrier faces extra stress. Cold winds, indoor heating, and low humidity can leave even the healthiest skin feeling tight, flaky, or irritated. The secret to radiant, supple skin all winter long lies in adjusting your routine to lock in hydration and strengthen your skin barrier. Here are six essential steps to boost moisture and restore your glow throughout the colder months.
28
S KIN CA R E | STYL E + BEAU T Y
1 2
1. SWITCH TO A CREA MY CLEANSER Foaming or gel cleansers can strip away natural oils your skin desperately needs in winter. Choose a gentle, creamy cleanser that hydrates while cleansing, leaving your skin soft and nourished rather than dry and tight.
2 . E X F O L I A T E W I S E LY Dead skin cells can prevent your moisturizer from absorbing properly. Use a mild exfoliant once or twice a week—something with lactic acid or gentle fruit enzymes—to smooth the skin’s surface without causing irritation or dryness.
3 3 . A P P LY A H Y DR AT ING SERUM After cleansing, use a serum rich in hyaluronic acid or glycerin. These ingredients attract and retain moisture, helping your skin stay plump and hydrated even in dry winter air.
CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A N N A
29
4 5
6
5. A DD A NOUR ISHING FAC I A L O I L Seal in your moisturizer with a few drops of facial oil such as rosehip, jojoba, or argan. This step adds extra protection against cold air and boosts radiance.
4. USE A R ICH MOISTUR IZER Light lotions aren’t enough for winter. Upgrade to a thicker cream containing ceramides, shea butter, or squalane to repair and protect your moisture barrier. Apply morning and night for lasting hydration.
30
S KIN CA R E | STYL E + BEAU T Y
6 . M A I N TA I N INDOOR MOISTUR E Use a humidifier in your bedroom or office to combat dry indoor air. Keeping humidity levels up helps your skin stay dewy, healthy, and glowing all season long. Hydrate, protect, and glow when you add these steps to your winter beauty routine. Your skin will thrive through winter’s chill.
City Manager’s Monthly Update Anna is stepping into the new year with excitement, optimism, and a steadfast commitment to community. As one of North Texas’ fastest-growing cities, we are proud of the momentum we have built and even more excited about what is ahead. Last month, neighbors came together for our annual 12 Days of Anna celebration. From twinkling lights and festive music to family-friendly fun, the event was a beautiful reminder of what makes Anna special. Thank you to everyone who joined us, volunteered and helped create lasting memories. Your support continues to shape our city’s story. With 2026 here, new opportunities await to evolve, connect, and thrive. As we begin the year, please stay informed about important updates, especially changes to
214-387-1552 | twilson.com
the trash and recycling schedule, which may affect your pickup days. Watch for notices and visit the City’s website for the latest information. Want to know what is happening in Anna each week? Subscribe to our Friday e-newsletter on the City website. It is your go-to guide for events, updates, and stories that keep you connected and engaged. As we turn the page to this new chapter, we are grateful for our neighbors, businesses, and partners who make Anna a place we are proud to call home. Here is to another great year together!
Sha
Roberts, Ed nnon itor
ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS
Editor's Corner 5 STEPS TO MAKING NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS THAT STICK
As the year turns, it’s the perfect time to reflect, reset, and create meaningful goals. Here’s how to make resolutions you’ll actually keep:
1 . Re fl e c t Ho nes tly Look back on the past year—celebrate your wins and learn from setbacks. Honest reflection creates clarity.
2. Choose Purpose ful Goa l s Select resolutions that truly matter to you. Align them with your values, not trends or outside pressure.
3. Ma ke The m S pe cific a n d Rea l istic Vague goals fade quickly. Define clear, measurable steps that feel achievable within your lifestyle.
4. C re ate a Pl a n of Ac ti on Break each goal into smaller milestones. Set deadlines and track your progress weekly or monthly.
32
T R E N D SE T T E R | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS
5. S tay Flex ible and K ind to Yourse lf Progress isn’t linear. Adjust when needed, and don’t let small slips derail your momentum. Consistency is the true key to lasting change.
JANUARY 2026
events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S
JA NUA RY 2 N D
Pick-Up Wreaths from Graves – Wreaths Across America DFW National Cemetery (near Melissa) | 10:00 AM Community volunteer event to pick up holiday wreaths placed in December on veterans’ graves. JA NUA RY 6T H
ANNA’S Strategic Leadership Greater Anna Chamber of Commerce | 6:30 PM Leadership / professional development program categorized as a community and networking event JA NUA RY 1 5T H
Coffee & Connections – Greater Anna Chamber of Commerce Anna ISD Administration Building, 151 W. Rosamond Pkwy, Anna, TX 75409 | 7:45 AM Monthly in-person networking with complimentary coffee; open to Chamber members, guests can attend up to two events before joining. JA NUA RY 3 1 ST
Live Music at BarnHill Vineyards – “Texas, Whiskey & You” BarnHill Vineyards, 11917 County Road 509, Anna, TX 75409 | 7:30 PM Texas, Whiskey & You - A Tribute to Chris Stapleton evening at BarnHill’s outdoor/indoor venue with wine and food-truck options. JA NUA RY 3 1 ST
Pancake Breakfast Band Fundraiser – Van Alstyne High School Van Alstyne High School, 700 Collin Mckinney Pkwy, Van Alstyne, TX 75495 | 9:30 AM The Van Alstyne High School Band is hosting a Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser on January 31, 2026 at the high school, located at 700 Collin Mckinney Pkwy in Van Alstyne, TX. This event is held to support the junior and high school bands. JA NUA RY 3 1 ST
Hurricane Creek Rotary Club Bingo Fundraiser Facebook.com/HurricaneCreekRotary | 6:30 PM Annual fundraiser supporting the Anna ISD, Van Alstyne ISD, and Howe ISD Teacher of the Year awards, Junior Leadership Camp Scholarships, and Senior College Scholarships! Event is for adults, 21+. Tickets include dinner, open bar beer and wine, 6 rounds of BINGO, and access to our silent auction. Additional Bingo cards available for sale. This event sells out every year!
Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / A N N A
34
EVE N TS
Chef-Driven Comfort Food S E R V I N G B R E A K F A S T + L U N C H I N A U B R E Y, T X
www.giuliascafe.com • 940.440.1013 1001 S Highway US 377, Suite 113, Aubrey, TX 76227
YOUR FUTURE BEGINS TODAY.
Visit us today or learn more at MyFarmers.Bank/Anna. 2100 W. White St., Suite 190 • Anna, TX 75409 • 469.296.1248