OUTSTANDING STUDENT ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
It is with great pleasure to announce Austin Crowley as the Outstanding Student-Athlete of the Month, as selected by the Anna Independent School District Athletic Coaching Team.
Heading into his senior year, this dedicated studentathlete has big goals on and off the field. His favorite subject is math, and he has already earned recognition as an All-Academic Athlete, balancing strong classroom performance with athletic excellence. A passionate Dallas Cowboys fan and enthusiast of the color blue, he approaches everything he does with dedication and focus.
Austin currently plays long snapper and linebacker and previously played strong safety, contributing to his team for multiple seasons. Now, he’s aiming high as
his ultimate goal before graduation is to help lead his team to a football state championship.
Beyond sports, he actively gives back to his community by volunteering and coaching at Coyote Kids Club Camps. These experiences highlight his leadership and character, qualities that will serve him well as he pursues his post-high school dream: playing college football for the Air Force Academy.
With determination, discipline, and a clear vision for the future, this rising senior is on a mission to make his final year of high school both meaningful and memorable, on the field, in the classroom, and beyond.
Congratulations to Austin and his selection as the July Outstanding Student-Athlete of the Month!
Exploring Dreams, Discovering Destinations
As we step into a vibrant season of change and opportunity, this issue invites you to embrace exploration in all its exhilarating forms.
Our featured stories highlight recent high school graduates standing at the edge of transformation, eager to carve out their futures with boldness, resilience, and imagination. These young individuals are exploring diverse paths from higher education and creative ventures to commu nity leadership and global travel. Their determination and curiosity offer a compelling glimpse into the promise of a new generation ready to shape the world on their own terms.
Complementing these inspiring personal journeys, we highlight several places to explore some of the world’s most captivating luxury travel destinations. From travel for sports enthusiasts, music lovers, and family fun, these experiences are designed to awaken your senses and satisfy your deepest wanderlust. Travel becomes more than a retreat, it becomes an immersive journey into beauty, indulgence, and the art of refined living. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a touch of opulence, our curated destinations promise unforgettable moments and transformative escapes.
This issue celebrates the forward motion of dreaming big, stepping bravely, and savoring every moment along the way. Whether you’re a recent graduate charting a bold new path or a seasoned traveler seeking your next unforgettable experience, we hope these stories move you to explore more deeply and live more fully.
Warm regards,
ANGIE TERRY, PUBLISHER @ANNACITYLIFESTYLE
July 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
Investing in Civic Leadership Through Anna’s Neighbor Academy
As we move through the heart of summer, our attention begins to turn toward the fall, and with it, the return of one of our city’s most impactful engagement programs: the Anna Neighbor Academy.
Now entering its eighth cohort, the Neighbor Academy has become a cornerstone of our efforts to inform, inspire, and empower civic leadership in Anna. Designed for newcomers and seasoned volunteers, the ten-session program offers neighbors a behind-the-scenes look at the operations, decisions, and people who keep our city running. Participants don’t just learn, though; they act. Each cohort closes the program by planning and completing a community project that makes a visible, meaningful difference in Anna.
The outcomes speak for themselves. Each cohort has brought unique ideas to life. The first class envisioned a Veterans Recognition Bench, which will be installed this fall in the public plaza outside the new Municipal Complex. This thoughtful tribute will offer a place for reflection and gratitude. One group organized an art contest to showcase high school creativity within city facilities, while another supported the city’s Back to School Bash by raising donations and volunteering to
help meet student needs. This initiative remains led by our Police Department, and we’re proud to stand alongside them in strengthening youth support. Other projects have focused on the future, like the time capsule currently being assembled by Cohort 4, filled with hopes and messages for Anna’s residents in 2050, and set to be placed in our new public library later this year. And just this spring, Cohort 7 partnered with Grace Place Community Garden to provide maintenance, harvesting, and support for feeding families in need.
What unites these projects is the belief that good ideas can come from anywhere and that neighbors, when empowered and informed, will step up to lead. This fall’s cohort will continue that tradition. If you’ve ever wanted to understand more about how the city works, or you’ve had an idea to improve your neighborhood but weren’t sure how to make it happen, this is your chance to get involved.
Applications are open now. We look forward to welcoming the next group of changemakers.
business monthly
Who You Build With Matters
Canyon Oak Pools in Melissa is a trusted, family-owned custom pool builder with over 25 years of experience. Each project is personally managed, delivering personalized service and exceptional craftsmanship. Specializing in custom pool designs, remodels, and outdoor living spaces, they are known for their integrity and commitment to customer satisfaction. Their team transforms ordinary backyards into beautiful, personalized outdoor retreats.
Scan to read more
Mow Worries, Just Green Dreams
Spruce Lawn Care in Melissa offers professional lawn care and landscaping services to the surrounding areas of Anna and McKinney. Their services include weekly lawn mowing, fertilization, weed control, flowerbed maintenance, mulching, and property cleanups. Known for their "Mow Worries" guarantee and a commitment to customer satisfaction, their team ensures reliable, high-quality service tailored to each client's needs. They are licensed, insured, and highly rated by customers.
Customize Your Treat
Cold Stone Creamery in Anna offers a delightful array of ice cream and frozen yogurt options, specializing in customizable treats. Guests can enjoy popular signature creations or create their unique ice cream creations. For those who prefer their sweets in liquid form, a variety of options are available. The menu also features a variety of shakes appealing to all dessert lovers. Scan to read more
ARTICLE BY ANGIE TERRY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANNON ROBERTS
EXPLORING OPPORTUNITIES AS GRADUATES STEP INTO A WORLD OF EDUCATION, WORK, TRAVEL, AND PERSONAL GROWTH
NAVIGATING NEW BEGINNINGS
As high school graduation caps fly into the air and students turn their tassels, a significant transition begins, one filled with excitement, uncertainty, and potential. For recent high school graduates, this period represents a momentous crossroads. While some may have a charted path ahead, many are still exploring the landscape of possibilities. Whether the future involves higher edu-
“EXCITED
flexibility, affordability, and targeted skill development. For example, a student passionate about healthcare may choose a two-year nursing program, while another interested in technology might pursue a coding bootcamp. This shift reflects a growing awareness that education is not one-size-fits-all.
Some high school graduates choose to enter the workforce directly. Whether
TO BUILD LEADERSHIP, NETWORKING, AND PUBLIC SPEAKING SKILLS IN COLLEGE.”
cation, entering the workforce, traveling, or other ventures, one thing is clear: today’s graduates face a world brimming with opportunity and challenge. For many graduates, attending college or university remains a primary goal. Postsecondary education has long been associated with broader career options, higher income potential, and personal growth. However, the landscape of higher education is changing. With rising tuition costs, a growing emphasis on student debt, and an evolving job market, students are increasingly seeking programs that offer practical, real-world applications.
Community colleges, trade schools, and online learning platforms have become attractive alternatives or complements to traditional four-year universities. These options provide
driven by financial necessity, a desire for independence, or a lack of interest in further formal education, these graduates often begin working in industries like retail, hospitality, construction, or entrylevel administrative roles. These positions can offer valuable real-world experience, the chance to build professional networks, and insights into long-term career goals.
Increasingly, companies are offering internships, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training programs tailored for recent graduates. These initiatives help bridge the gap between school and career, allowing young adults to earn a living while developing crucial skills. For instance, tech companies might recruit high school graduates for junior IT roles, providing mentorship and growth opportunities without the need for a degree.
Not every path needs to start immediately. Taking a gap year, once considered unconventional, is becoming more accepted and even encouraged. Graduates may use this time to travel, volunteer, work, or explore personal interests. These experiences can lead to increased maturity, better self-awareness, and clearer future goals.
Programs such as AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and international volunteering platforms offer structured opportunities for meaningful engagement. Travel can also expose young people to new cultures, perspectives, and challenges, helping them grow in ways that a classroom cannot always provide. A well-spent gap year often results in a more focused and motivated return to education or the workforce.
With the rise of digital platforms and access to online resources, more young people are exploring entrepreneurship. High school graduates with a knack for innovation are starting small businesses, launching YouTube channels, developing apps, or creating online stores. Social media and digital marketing allow these ventures to grow quickly, sometimes gaining national or even global attention.
Starting a business at an early age can be a formidable challenge, but it also teaches resilience, financial literacy, leadership, and adaptability skills that are valuable in any future career. Support from small local business organizations,
“PASSIONATE ABOUT UNDERSTANDING AND CONNECTING WITH PEOPLE.”
startup incubators, and online learning tools has made entrepreneurship more accessible than ever.
While the world offers many exciting options, the pressure to make the “right” choice can be overwhelming. Many graduates feel anxious about choosing a path that aligns with both their passions and practical needs. It's important for students, parents, and educators to acknowledge that it's okay not to have everything figured out. The path to success is rarely linear, and exploring different opportunities is a normal and healthy part of growing up.
Recent high school graduates are stepping into a world that is more dynamic and interconnected than ever before. Technological advancements, cultural shifts, and economic changes have expanded the definition of success and the routes to achieve it. Whether pursuing higher education, joining the workforce, traveling the world, or starting a business, today’s young adults are learning to carve their paths.
The most important takeaway is that there is no singular right path. Every choice brings its own set of experiences, lessons, and opportunities. As they explore what lies ahead, recent graduates should be encouraged to remain curious, open-minded, and resilient. With the right support and mindset, this exciting new chapter can lead to a future full of possibility and purpose.
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.
Luxury Vacation Destination
French Lick Resort Offers Experiences for All Types of Travelers
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE MOODY
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED AND BY MICHELLE
If you’re searching for a new destination for a weekend escape, we’ve found the perfect luxury, midwest vacation spot. Nestled in the Indiana hills of the Hoosier National Forest is the historic French Lick Resort.
The resort is home to two AAA Four-Diamond nationally historic hotels, the French Lick Springs Hotel and the West Baden Springs Hotel. Both are the epitome of classic elegance and sophistication, paired with modern amenities. The French Lick Springs Hotel features stunning murals and historic photographs that capture its rich history, dating back to 1845. The West Baden Springs Hotel is best recognized for its stunning domed atrium, which serves as both a focal point and gathering spot for hotel guests.
The French Lick Resort has something to please every type of vacationer.
MOODY
FAMILY FUN
SPORTS ENTHUSIAST
French Lick is a golf lover’s paradise. The resort boasts 45 holes of picturesque and legendary golf with three highly acclaimed courses designed by Donald Ross, Pete Dye and Tom Bendelow.
Saddle up and enjoy a trail ride through the scenic woods on one of the stable’s statuesque horses. If you have little ones in your party, pony rides are also available.
For the sharpshooters, their sporting clays allow guests to try a different type of outdoor sporting challenge.
There are activities for all ages to enjoy in and near the resort. Families can bowl on one of their six lanes or play one of the many lawn games available. An outdoor activity perfect for all ages is FootGolf, which combines soccer with golf. Each player kicks the ball to the pin in this unique, family-friendly game.
Just ten minutes away is the Wilstem Wildlife Park. This animal encounter experience allows visitors to feed animals like emu, alpaca, eland, llamas and more right from their car. The drive also takes visitors past zebras, Asian elephants and bison. Visitors can pay a small extra charge to have a photo taken with a grizzly bear, feed a giraffe or pet a kangaroo. We recommend a four-wheel drive vehicle for this tour.
MUSIC LOVER
Music abounds at the resort. The West Baden Springs Hotel features live music in the atrium every evening, ranging from piano soloists to jazz trios. Throughout the summer and early fall, there is live music nightly on the front lawn of the French Lick Springs Hotel. National headliners also perform at the resort throughout the year.
RELAXATION
If you prefer a more relaxing vacation, you’ll find ample opportunities to unwind at French Lick. The resort features two luxurious spas, offering a full range of services to rejuvenate the mind and body. Enjoy a soak in the legendary Pluto mineral bath, relax with a sacred stone massage or turn back the clock with one of their signature facials.
The hotels also feature four heated pools, both indoors and outdoors, and two hot tubs, perfect for relaxing at the end of the day.
Nature enthusiasts can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens or on ten miles of scenic trails. Plaques displaying stories of historic events that occurred at the resort are located along many of the trails.
FOR THE FOODIE
The resort features ten restaurants ranging from fine dining to a casual pizzeria. One of their claims to fame is that tomato juice was first served at the hotel when they ran out of orange juice and needed a quick alternative to serve. The neighboring communities of French Lick and West Baden Springs also offer a variety of food and dining options.
If bourbon is your drink of choice, take the bourbon tour. This self-paced tour guides visitors to six locations across the resort, each offering a bourbon-based food or drink item. Just off the main property is the French Lick Winery. Enjoy a tasting to sample from the dozens of locally made wines before purchasing some to take home.
MUCH MORE
This is just some of what can be found at the French Lick Resort. Other unique features include trolley rides, historical tours, carriage rides, surrey cart rentals and train rides. The resort even has a full casino and conference center. So, as you finalize your summer and fall travel plans, consider a visit to French Lick Resort. FrenchLick.com
KOOB S T O TAKEYOU AWAY
I ASKED MY EXPAT AND TRAVEL-SAVVY FRIENDS TO RECOMMEND BOOKS TO TAKE ME FAR AWAY. HERE YOU GO!
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
Blue Latitudes
BY TONY HORWITZ
Blue Latitudes: Boldly Going Where Captain Cook Has Gone Before. The Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist travels to various parts of the world, following in the footsteps of explorer James Cook.
The Island of Missing Trees
BY ELIF SHAFAIT
It is 1974 on the island of Cyprus. Two teenagers, from opposite sides of a divided land, meet at a tavern in the city they both call home. The tavern is the only place that Kostas, who is Greek and Christian, and Defne, who is Turkish and Muslim, can meet, in secret, hidden beneath the blackened beams from which hang garlands of garlic, chili peppers and wild herbs. This is where one can find the best food in town, the best music, the best wine. But there is something else to the place: it makes one forget, even if for just a few hours, the world outside and its immoderate sorrows.
The Corfu Trilogy
BY GERALD DURRELL
Three classic tales of childhood on an island paradise - My Family and Other Animals, Birds, Beasts and Relatives and The
Garden of the Gods by Gerald Durrell - are available in a single edition for the first time in The Corfu Trilogy
Just before the Second World War the Durrell family decamped to the glorious, sun-soaked island of Corfu, where the youngest of the four children, ten-year-old Gerald, discovered his passion for animals: toads and tortoises, bats and butterflies, scorpions and octopuses. Through glorious silver-green olive groves and across brilliant-white beaches Gerry pursued his obsession . . . causing hilarity and mayhem in his ever-tolerant family.
Cutting for Stone
BY ABRAHAM VERGHESE
Cutting for Stone is a novel written by Ethiopian-born, Indian-American medical doctor and author Abraham Verghese. It is a saga of twin brothers, orphaned by their mother’s death at their births and forsaken by their father.
The Museum of Innocence
BY ORHAN PAMUK
The author is a Nobel-laureate Turkish novelist. The book, set in Istanbul between 1975 and 1984, is an account of the love story between the wealthy businessman Kemal and a poorer distant relative of his, Füsun.
RO A D CHOW
FUN AND CREATIVE TRAVEL SNACKS GUARANTEED TO SATISFY EVERY TASTE PALATE IN THE FAMILY.
ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP
Planning to load up the family truckster and head out on an adventure? These easy-to-pack and satisfying snacks are a great way to keep growling tummies quiet while you’re behind the wheel. Grab the kids, prepare them together, and try not to eat them all before you hit the road!
DIRECTIONS:
1/ Preheat oven to 325°F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cups quick oats
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/3 cup apple butter
• 1 large banana, mashed (1/2 cup)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup pepitas
• 1/2 cup raisins
2/ Combine all the ingredients into a large bowl of a stand mixer (or hand mixer). Mix until all the ingredients are combined and the dough is thick and heavy.
3/ Portion 1/4 cup mounds of cookie dough onto prepared cookie sheets. Use the back of a spoon to slightly flatten out into a cookie shape. (The cookies will not spread in the oven.)
4/ Bake for 16-18 minutes or until the edges are slightly brown. Cool cookies on the baking sheets for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool.
5/ Cover leftover cookies and store at room temperature for up to 5 days or 10 days in the fridge.
TRAIL MIX
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup puffed quinoa or puffed millet
• 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
• 1/2 cup whole roasted almonds
• 1/2 cup raw pepitas
• 1/2 cup raw cashews
• 1/2 cup dried banana chips (broken in half)
• 1/4 cup chopped dried mango or papaya
• 2 tablespoons candied ginger
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chunks (or chocolate chips)
DIRECTIONS:
1/ In a medium mixing bowl, toss all ingredients together until evenly combined.
2/ Store in an airtight container for up to 1 month or in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
&
Picnics Pairings
CREATE A LIVELY, NUTRITIOUS, AND TASTY SENSATION AT YOUR NEXT COZY PICNIC
ARTICLE BY KIM COSTA PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Have you been eyeing a breathtaking view or a luscious green patch near a waterscape? For special times with your favorite people, nothing says warm weather fun like a picnic. Follow these tips for preparation ideas.
Ambiance:
Throw pillows are a must. Pull them from your couches or invest in outdoor pillows that can be used repeatedly. A large throw is also essential to protect from moist ground and grass stains. Bring your favorite tunes with one of the many available portable speakers or unplug and enjoy the sounds of nature. Cut flowers add a wow factor.
You don’t have to own a picnic basket to have a picnic. But if you do bring a basket, make sure to have some way to chill your perishables and drinks. Reusable silverware, plastic wine or drink cups, and plates often come with a picnic basket set, but can also be purchased separately. Keeping it elegant, but easy (and cool) is the key!
Accompaniments:
A cheese plate with fruit is the perfect start to your picnic fare. As with the cheese, your drink selections should coordinate with the main dish. For salads, pair accoutrements with the dressing in mind. A lemony herb vinaigrette dressing goes well with smooth cheeses and tart beverages such as lemonade, prosecco, or sauvignon blanc.
Enjoy your perfect picnic!
This magazine exists because Angie said ‘Yes.’
Behind every City Lifestyle magazine is a leap of faith — someone who chose to shape the story of their city. They saw a chance to inspire, connect, and elevate the voices that make their community shine.
Now, new cities are waiting for someone to say yes. What if it was you?
Anna City Lifestyle
Published by Angie Loved by Anna
JULY 4TH
Fireworks & 80s Rock, Family Friendly 4th of July/Anna, TX
Barn Hill Vineyards, 11917 County Road 509 Anna, TX 75409 | 6:45 PM
BarnHill front gates open at ~ 6:45 pm. Choose your spot, get some wine, order from the food trucks, stroll through the vineyard, and capture beautiful sunset photos. Following a sunset toast & singing of the National Anthem, Last Stand will take the stage and perform for approximately 2 hours with a spectacular FIREWORKS show to follow.
JULY 4TH
4th of July Fireworks Show/Van Alstyne, TX
Van Alstyne High School is located at 1722 N. Waco Street in Van Alstyne, TX. | 8:00 PM
The City of Van Alstyne is hosting it’s annual 4th of July Fireworks event on Tuesday, July 4th at dusk. According to Google dusk in Van Alstyne begins at 9:08PM on Tuesday, July 4th. Arrive at Van Alstyne High School between 8PM and 8:30PM so that you can find your perfect spot to watch the fireworks show!
JULY 4TH
Celebrate July 4th with Fireworks in the Park!/Gunter, TX
200 W Elm St, Gunter, TX 75058 | 6:00 PM
The Gunter Chamber of Commerce is presenting Fireworks in the Park from 6-10 p.m. on July 4 at Gunter City Park. Ameritex Pipe and Simmons Bank are sponsoring the fireworks, and Mustang Special Utility District is sponsoring the music. Admission is free, but no pets or alcohol are allowed on the grounds.
