Shopping

2024 Holiday Gift Guide

Article by Allison Stech Gifts for Men 1. Rhoback Golf Polo $98 This polo features breathable, moisture-wicking fabric with four-way stretch to keep you cool and ready to move. rhoback.com 2. Ninja FrostVault™ Cooler $249.99 The cooler with premium ice retention and fridge-temp dry storage. ninjakitchen.com 3. Ridge Wallet $219.95 The Ridge is a minimalist, RFID-blocking wallet which uses elastic to carry up to 12 IDs and credit cards. ridge.com 4. UGG Men’s Ascot Slippers $110 Ultra-soft...

Local Services

Van Alstyne Holiday Flag Program

Show Your Patriotism While Supporting Your Local Boy Scouts Article by Shannon Roberts | Photography by Lauren Roberts Van Alstyne Scouting BSA Troop #44 invites individuals within the Van Alstyne Independent School District to join your neighbors in proudly displaying the American Flag in front of your home. This program allows residents of the Van Alstyne community to show their pride and love for our Country. What is the Van Alstyne Holiday Flag Program? In exchange for an annual...

Shopping

Cruisin' with a Claus

Uniting the community to brighten the holidays for children through the gift of giving Article by Angie Terry Cruisin’ with a Claus is a holiday toy drive, organized and managed by the Anna Police Department, and is a heartwarming initiative aimed at spreading joy during the holiday season. This event collects new, unwrapped toys, gift cards, and youth jackets to distribute to children in need, ensuring that every child experiences the magic of receiving a gift. The toy drive benefits...

Shopping

Extended Gift Guide

For Teens, Kids & Pets Article by Allison Stech Gifts for Teens 1. Frigidaire Mini Fridge $79.99 The sleek stainless steel door contains two baskets inside for storing little items, holding 15 cans. amazon.com 2. Vinyl Record Player $59.99 The clean, vintage-inspired aesthetic fits into any space with its lightweight design. target.com 3. Amazon Echo Dot $49.99 Stay on track with help from Alexa, control smart home devices, and start routines with your motion..target.com Gifts for Kids ...

Local Services

The Angel Tree

A Community Tradition of Giving Article by Angie Terry Eighteen years ago, Tiffany Terry and her sister, Amanda Hess, were asked to “temporarily” take over the Angel Tree program in their hometown of Anna. Little did they know that this short-term commitment would evolve into a lifelong passion. Now, as they embark on their 19th year, they remain dedicated to this heartwarming initiative that brings joy to families in need during the holiday season. Starting in October, they collaborate with...

Entertainment

12 Days of Anna

A Community Holiday Celebration Article by Shannon Roberts   City of Anna's Annual Tree Lighting - December 7 at 6pm  Saturday December 7 - Santa’s Village & Tree Lighting, Anna Municipal Complex. Sunday December 8 – Free Ice Skating, Anna Municipal Complex.  Monday December 9 – Toy Drop-Off Deadline, Anna Municipal Complex all day. Let the spirit of giving extend by supporting our Police Department’s “Blue Santa” toy drive! Tuesday December 10 – Adults 50+ Holiday Lunch, Grace Place (505...

Local Services

Operation Santa: Spreading Christmas Cheer

Sharing Christmas spirit and kindness to brighten the holiday season Article by Angie Terry What is Operation Santa? Each December, Santa travels through Anna’s neighborhoods with Anna Firefighters, engaging with families and children. This community initiative spreads holiday cheer and captures the true spirit of Christmas. At times, the Grinch joins in all the fun! Who organizes Operation Santa? Anna Fire Rescue, in partnership with the City of Anna, organizes and manages Operation...

Local Services

Grace Place of Anna

Building a Place of Grace, Hope & Community Article by Angie Terry | Photography by Courtesy of Grace Place What makes Grace Place different from other food pantries?     They run a "choice" food pantry, allowing families to choose their groceries. This method reduces waste and meets dietary needs, fostering dignity and hope. Visitors often comment, “It just feels different when we walk in,” highlighting our supportive atmosphere. What are some ways the community can get involved?    ...

Wellness

Diabetes Awareness Month

The Rising Impact of Type 1 Diabetes in America Article by Jonathan Burge      For over 18,000 youths in America diagnosed annually with Type 1 diabetes, life revolves around balancing dangerous blood sugar highs and lows. The American Diabetes Association reports that between 2017 and 2018, approximately 18,200 youths were diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, compared to 5,300 with Type 2 diabetes.      Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong autoimmune condition where the body destroys its...

Local Services

Children's Advocacy Center of Collin County

Superheroes for Our Most Volunerable Citizens Article and Photography by Shannon Roberts As we began planning our November’s issue focusing on “Thankful and Grateful”, I immediately thought of my experience volunteering and supporting a wonderful organization in our community, Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County (CACCC). I have had the pleasure of helping support the Center since 2014 through service and donations. In addition, it has given me some very special people that I am so...