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Patricia Chi
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Coppell Cross Country had plenty to celebrate at the District 7-6A Championship on Monday, Oct. 12, at Myers Park in McKinney. The Cowboys and Cowgirls brought home three team championships, with the Varsity Boys, JV Boys and JV Girls all taking first place. The Varsity Girls finished third, earning a spot at the regional meet alongside the Varsity Boys.

All four Coppell teams came home with trophies, reflecting the hard work the runners have put in throughout the season.

“The kids attacked the course and left it all out there,” Coach Wren said. “Each kid had a race plan and nearly every one of them executed it perfectly. To run in 4 races and take home a trophy, 3 of them 1st place, is a testament of how hard our kids have worked this season. I could not be happier for them.”

Individual and Team Highlights

Varsity Girls Finish Third, Led by District Champion Maya Easterwood

The Varsity Girls finished third, securing their place at Regionals. Maya Easterwood led Coppell with a first-place finish in 18:44, becoming the District 7-6A individual champion.

Finleigh Sanders-Burk finished third in 19:56, giving Coppell two runners on the district podium. Rachel Stumm placed 13th in 21:02, followed by Angie Nguyen in 20th at 21:28 and Mirabelle Sagel in 23rd at 21:34.

Coach Wren knew the girls would face a close race for the regional qualifying spots.

“We knew going in that we could potentially finish anywhere from 1st to 4th,” Coach Wren said. “I felt strongly that we would qualify but knew we had to run well to do it. I was super proud of the girls' effort and race plan on the course. There was no denying them from claiming that regional qualifier spot.”

Easterwood's victory was especially meaningful after finishing second at District the previous two years.

“Maya has finished 2nd at the district meet the last two years, so I can't tell you how excited I was for her to finally finish 1st and become district champ,” Coach Wren added.

Varsity Boys Capture District Championship

The Varsity Boys claimed the District 7-6A Championship, placing five runners in the top 10.

Sidharth Kerthipati led the Cowboys with a second-place finish in 16:04. Itsuki Pena finished seventh in 16:39, followed by Alesh Khowala in eighth at 16:50, Abishek Suresh in ninth at 16:52 and Sam Meier in 10th at 16:54.

Diego Morales finished just behind them in 11th place with a time of 16:55, while Tanish Neelapu placed 17th in 17:33.

Coach Wren entered the meet knowing the boys had the talent to win, but he also knew they would have to execute their race plan.

“We knew that we were the most talented team going in and should win the championship,” Coach Wren said. “However, I've been a coach for a long time and seen plenty of teams not win that were supposed to. This group wouldn't be denied, though. They executed our race plan perfectly and dominated the competition. They ran like the favorites that they were. Finishing 5 runners in the top 10 is quite impressive.”

District All-District Honors

Several Coppell Varsity runners also earned All-District recognition. Athletes finishing in the top 10 received First Team All-District honors, while those placing 11th through 20th earned Second Team All-District honors.

First Team All-District

Varsity Girls:

  • Maya Easterwood — 1st
  • Finleigh Sanders-Burk — 3rd

Varsity Boys:

  • Sidharth Kerthipati — 2nd
  • Itsuki Pena — 7th
  • Alesh Khowala — 8th
  • Abishek Suresh — 9th
  • Sam Meier — 10th

Second Team All-District

Varsity Girls:

  • Rachel Stumm — 13th
  • Angie Nguyen — 20th

Varsity Boys:

  • Diego Morales — 11th
  • Tanish Neelapu — 17th

JV Girls Take District Championship

The JV Girls won the district championship with an impressive team score of 25 points, placing six runners in the top 10.

Sabrina Wright led the Cowgirls with a second-place finish in 22:24. Vanini Agarwal finished fourth in 22:48, followed closely by Hannah Stumm in fifth at 22:49. Avery Arthur placed sixth in 22:57, Adeline Mendola finished eighth in 23:01, and Shrriya Bedse placed ninth in 23:28.

Avery Fishman finished 14th in 23:57, followed by Charlotte Baade in 18th at 24:33 and Kate McGrath in 19th at 24:35.

“The JVG turned in the 2nd most dominating performance of the meet by scoring 25 points,” Coach Wren said. “Six girls finished in the top 10. This really speaks to the depth we have on the girls' team. A number of these girls would've run varsity in previous years. Our goal was to win district, and we did it in dominating fashion. Happy for them!”

JV Boys Secure District Championship with Perfect Score

The JV Boys turned in one of the day's most memorable performances, winning the district championship with a perfect team score of 15 points.

Coppell swept the first five individual places, led by Isaiah Assefa, who won the race in 17:16. Vihaan Sahni finished second in 17:30, followed by Cannon Stehly in third at 17:48, Rigved Nehere in fourth at 17:49 and Marco Noyola in fifth at 17:54.

Vihaan Sharma added an eighth-place finish in 18:22, and Ahan Kothalkar placed ninth in 18:39, giving Coppell seven runners in the top nine. Lukas Stumm finished 12th in 18:54, followed by Colten Karstendiek in 14th at 19:02.

“The most dominating performance of the day was turned in by the JV Boys,” Coach Wren said. “The boys scored a perfect score of 15 points and had 7 runners in the top 9. It simply was an incredible performance. Our boys' team is extremely deep and this race proved that.”

Coach Wren also credited the work the runners have put in throughout the season.

“The work they have put in this year led to that success yesterday,” he said.

Individual and Coaching Honors

In addition to Coppell's three team championships, several individuals received special recognition for their accomplishments this season.

Maya Easterwood — Meet MVP

Easterwood was named Meet MVP after winning the Varsity Girls district championship in 18:44. After finishing second at District in each of the previous two seasons, she earned her first district title and helped the Cowgirls qualify for Regionals.

Alesh Khowala — Newcomer of the Year

Khowala earned Newcomer of the Year honors after moving up to varsity competition this season. His eighth-place finish in 16:50 helped the Cowboys capture the district championship and reflected the progress he has made throughout the year.

Coach Landon Wren — Boys Coach of the Year

Coach Wren was named Boys Coach of the Year following a season that saw the Varsity Boys capture the district championship and the JV Boys earn a perfect score of 15 points at District. The honor recognizes his leadership and the work behind the boys program's success.

Looking Ahead to Regionals

With three district team championships, multiple All-District selections and individual honors, Coppell now turns its attention to the next challenge.

Both Varsity teams will travel to Lubbock for the regional meet on Monday, Oct. 26, where they will compete against some of the top teams in the state.

“We look forward to running at the regional meet in Lubbock on Monday, October 26, against some of the top competition in the state,” Coach Wren said. “Our boys and girls will be up for the challenge.”

Congratulations to all the Cowboys and Cowgirls on a successful District Championship!

We’re proud of their efforts, and we’ll keep pushing forward until the next race!

Contact Information

For more details or to support Coppell High School’s Cross Country program, please contact:

Patricia Chi
chi.patricia@gmail.com
(469) 831-3709

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Season tickets are officially on sale for fans looking to experience all the action as the reigning MLV champions return to their home court. This season, a brand new half-season flex plan is available, where fans can secure tickets for seven home games throughout the season. Those interested in either option can visit Dallas PULSE Volleyball to secure their spot.

Season Tickets and New Flex Plans Available Now, with 2027 MLV Schedule and Dallas PULSE Mascot Reveal on the Horizon

 

Dallas PULSE gears up for its highly anticipated second season in Major League Volleyball (MLV) after a historic inaugural season that ended with a championship victory. Since the championship, PULSE players and staff have continued to connect with fans across North Texas, building excitement for the return of professional women’s volleyball to Comerica Center in January 2027.

Since the team’s debut on October 16, 2025, Dallas PULSE has given North Texas plenty to celebrate during its historic debut inaugural season. The January 10 home opener set the tone, drawing 2,900 fans with an 87% show rate – the team's best-performing match. The 2026 postseason ended with a championship victory over the Omaha Supernovas on May 9 at Comerica Center in Frisco, with 3,100 fans there to witness the historic moment. Dallas PULSE made MLV history as the first expansion team to win a championship in its first season.

“The 2027 MLV season is quickly approaching and we are engaging all channels to make sure PULSE fans are energized and ready to go when the action returns,” said Dallas PULSE President and CEO Grady Raskin. “As we celebrate an unbelievable first year as Dallas PULSE, we’re reminded of the incredible support from our fans right here in Dallas-Fort Worth and look forward to building on that momentum as we return to the court in January."

Throughout the preseason, PULSE players and staff have continued to grow the fan base and connect with the North Texas community with a MLV Championship Trophy Tour. The tour has brought the championship trophy to high schools across North Texas, fan events and even on the mound at Globe Life Field, where PULSE players Kaylee Cox and Kelsie Payne threw out the ceremonial first pitch on September 23.

Season tickets are officially on sale for fans looking to experience all the action as the reigning MLV champions return to their home court. This season, a brand new half-season flex plan is available, where fans can secure tickets for seven home games throughout the season. Those interested in either option can visit DallasPulseVB.com to secure their spot. 

The excitement will continue to build in the months ahead, with the 2027 MLV Draft Day on November 23 and the debut of the official Dallas PULSE mascot in December. These milestones will give fans new ways to connect with the team as the countdown to the upcoming season begins.

As the team prepares to defend its championship title, fans can stay connected to all things Dallas PULSE by signing up for the team's monthly newsletter. Subscribers will be among the first to receive updates on the 2027 MLV season schedule, single-game ticket availability, special events and preseason player activations. Fans can sign up for the newsletter HERE.

About Dallas PULSE

Dallas PULSE is North Texas’ women’s professional volleyball team and the reigning Major League Volleyball Champions. Playing at Comerica Center in Frisco, Dallas PULSE echoes the energy, and heart of Dallas-Fort Worth – home to one of the nation’s largest and most passionate volleyball communities. Following a championship-winning inaugural season, Dallas PULSE continues to build momentum on and off the court while helping grow the game of volleyball across North Texas. For more information, visit DallasPulseVB.com or follow @DallasPULSEVB on social media for schedule updates, roster announcements, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

About Major League Volleyball

Major League Volleyball (MLV) is the premier professional volleyball league in the United States, designed to provide the sport and its athletes with the major league platform they deserve. Founded on a player-first philosophy, MLV combines elite competition, significant investment in athlete development, experienced professional sports ownership and a commitment to the long-term growth of volleyball across the country. As the league enters its fourth season in 2027, MLV has expanded to 12 teams from coast-to-coast in some of the top media markets in the nation. It will continue to create top-level, lasting opportunities and memories for players, coaches and local communities while leading the way in solidifying the future of professional volleyball in North America. For more information, visit MLVB.com and follow the league on Instagram, Facebook, X and YouTube.

 

 

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Mary Gauthier credit: David McClister

Nov. 19th concert, held under the stars in The Stewpot courtyard, will support mission to help those experiencing homelessness and hardship 

WHAT:

The Stewpot, a Dallas-based mission serving people experiencing hardship or homelessness, will host an intimate evening with Grammy-nominated Americana singer-songwriter Mary Gauthier under the stars in its South Dallas courtyard. The public event will feature live music and an opportunity for neighbors from all walks of life to gather on common ground in support of fellow community members.

WHO:

Known for personal, confessional songs including “Mercy Now” and “I Drink,” Mary Gauthier brings compassion and honesty to stories of struggle, connection and hope. Her album Rifles & Rosary Beads earned a Grammy nomination for Best Folk Album, and artists including Tim McGraw, Blake Shelton and Jimmy Buffett have recorded her songs. Her new album Reckoning reflects her patient, private optimism.

 

WHEN & WHERE:

Thursday, Nov. 19, 5:30–9 p.m.

  • 5:30–7:30 – Doors open, food available for purchase
  • 7:30 p.m. – Concert starts

The Stewpot, 1610 S. Malcolm X Blvd, Dallas, TX 75226

VISUALS:

  • Outdoor community concert on The Stewpot campus, home to the organization’s food pantry, homeless services and other community outreach.
  • Live performance by Mary Gauthier (non-flash photography allowed)

TICKETS:

Tickets are $55 plus fees and available to the public at thestewpot.org/mary. Proceeds support The Stewpot’s mission to love and serve our neighbors so they can overcome homelessness and poverty. 

WHY IT MATTERS:

The Stewpot’s Common Ground gatherings bring people together through art, music and shared experiences. On Nov. 19, the courtyard will welcome longtime friends of The Stewpot, first-time visitors, and members of The Stewpot's own community for an evening of music and connection.

The Stewpot loves and serves our Dallas neighbors, helping them overcome homelessness and poverty. Founded more than 50 years ago as a mission of First Presbyterian Church of Dallas to feed people on the streets in downtown Dallas, The Stewpot has grown to provide comprehensive services and a community of support to people experiencing hardship and homelessness.

To learn more, visit thestewpot.org.

Kathy Beazley
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Photo credit Southwest Festivals

Scarborough’s Hollow Fall Fantasy Festival is saying “thank you” to the men and women who serve their country and communities with special discounted admission available through GovX — giving eligible guests even more reason to experience the magic, mischief and adventure of the Hollow now through Nov. 1.

The exclusive ticket offer is available to a broad range of eligible service-related groups, including active-duty military members, veterans, retired military personnel, law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMTs, nurses, medical professionals, government employees and teachers.

Eligible guests can verify their status and access the special ticket offer at www.srfestival.com/govx/.

“Scarborough’s Hollow is all about bringing people together for fun, imagination and shared experiences, and we’re especially pleased to offer this discount to the people who give so much to our communities every day,” said Veronica Castelo, general manager of Southwest Festivals, producer of Scarborough’s Hollow and Scarborough Renaissance Festival. “Whether they serve in our military, keep our communities safe, care for us when we’re sick, teach our children or work in public service, this is one small way we can say thank you.”

The Hollow Is Open Now

Recognized as Favorite Faery/Fantasy Festival in the 21st Annual Renaissance Festival Awards, Scarborough’s Hollow is open every Saturday now through Oct. 31, plus Sunday, Nov. 1, from 1 to 9 p.m. at Scarborough Faire, 2511 FM 66 in Waxahachie. 

Guests don’t have to wait until Halloween to experience the Hollow. Every operating day transforms Scarborough Faire’s 16th-century village into an immersive world of fantasy, folklore and autumn adventure, with live entertainment, roaming characters, artisan shopping, seasonal food and beverages, interactive experiences and attractions that continue into the evening.

A New Chapter Begins

This season introduces a new chapter in the Hollow’s original storyline.

The Three Sisters — Morwyn, Faylen and Slyra — have long protected the balance of their magical realm. Now, a powerful new force has emerged.

Lucian seeks to claim the Hollow for himself, spreading his influence throughout the village and challenging the Sisters like never before. Guests become part of the unfolding adventure through live performances, roaming characters, interactive encounters and immersive storytelling woven throughout the festival grounds. 

The experience evolves from day into night, giving visitors opportunities to discover characters, stories and surprises as they explore the village.

Discover Something Around Every Corner

Throughout the Hollow, guests can browse handcrafted goods from talented artisans, enjoy seasonal food and beverages, relax in lively pubs, experience live music, comedy and stage performances, and encounter whimsical creatures and colorful characters around nearly every corner. 

Visitors are encouraged to become part of the fantasy by wearing family-friendly autumn, fantasy, Renaissance or period-inspired attire. Guests looking to complete their look can also shop for clothing, accessories, jewelry, artwork, home décor and handcrafted wares from the village’s artisan merchants. 

Immersive Attractions Add to the Adventure

Guests can further enhance their visit with optional attractions and premium experiences available throughout the festival.

Brave souls can enter the ancient Blackthorn Haunted Castle, where Lucian’s dark influence has transformed its halls into a foreboding realm filled with eerie encounters.

Families and adventure seekers can explore Trickster’s 3D Fun House, a whimsical walk-through attraction filled with colorful illusions, playful surprises and mind-bending twists inspired by Slyra’s mischievous magic.

Guests can also uncover hidden clues and forgotten secrets inside the Secrets of Rottingwood Cemetery, an interactive scavenger adventure that becomes even more mysterious after sunset. 

Adults 21 and older can elevate their visit with guided Harvest Wine Tastings hosted by Certified Sommelier Flynn Markley or Brews of the Hollow Beer Tastings led by Certified Cicerone® Seamus Norwood. 

More Fall Fun Still to Come

While Scarborough’s Hollow is open now and every Saturday throughout October, two special celebrations will bring the 2026 season to a festive conclusion.

Halloween Celebration – Saturday, Oct. 31
Halloween at Scarborough’s Hollow combines beloved fall traditions with immersive fantasy adventures. The first 500 children through the gates will receive a complimentary trick-or-treat bag before collecting treats throughout the village from participating artisan merchants. Families can also enjoy the Costume Contest, pumpkin coloring in Kids’ Hollow, live entertainment, seasonal food and beverages, immersive attractions and fall photo opportunities. 

Día de los Muertos Celebration – Sunday, Nov. 1
The season concludes with a special Día de los Muertos celebration featuring live mariachi performances, cultural programming, colorful face painting and a community ofrenda honoring the memories of loved ones. Children can decorate Día de los Muertos sugar skull coloring pages in Kids’ Hollow, and guests of all ages are invited to participate in the Family Costume Contest.

From whimsical daytime adventures to an enchanting atmosphere after sunset, Scarborough’s Hollow gives guests an opportunity to celebrate the magic of autumn through imagination, exploration and shared experiences. Whether it is a family’s first visit or an annual tradition, every trip promises new discoveries, memorable characters and a little magic around every corner. 

Scarborough’s Hollow is open Saturdays now through Oct. 31, plus Sunday, Nov. 1, from 1 to 9 p.m. 

Eligible military members, veterans, first responders, educators, healthcare professionals, government employees and other qualifying groups can learn more, verify eligibility and purchase specially priced tickets at www.srfestival.com/govx/.

Scarborough Renaissance Festival is sponsored by Dr Pepper and Tom Thumb & Albertsons. 

ABOUT SOUTHWEST FESTIVALS

Southwest Festivals produces immersive events celebrating history, creativity and community, including the nationally recognized Scarborough Renaissance Festival, Scarborough's Hollow Fall Fantasy Festival and the Texas Mead & Music Festival. Hosted at Scarborough Faire in Waxahachie, Southwest Festivals' events feature live entertainment, artisan marketplaces, interactive experiences, themed attractions, and exceptional food and beverage experiences.

Scarborough Renaissance Festival and Scarborough's Hollow Fall Fantasy Festival were recently recognized in the 21st Annual Renaissance Festival Awards, earning fan-voted honors as Favorite Renaissance Festival (Southeast) and Favorite Faery/Fantasy Festival, respectively.

 

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There are only a few days left to get your State Fair fix! The State Fair of Texas is in its final days, bringing Big Tex, classic fair food, midway rides, live entertainment, creative exhibits, and plenty of Texas-sized fun to Fair Park. Make your last-minute fair getaway even easier with Stay and Play at the State Fair of Texas at Sheraton Dallas, giving fairgoers a convenient place to stay before or after a full day at the fairgrounds.

Located in the heart of downtown Dallas, Sheraton Dallas puts guests within easy reach of Fair Park and the rest of the city. After sampling your way through the fair, take a break from the crowds and return to the hotel to relax, grab a drink, or continue the fun at Draft Sports Bar & Lounge. With only a few days left, now is the time to gather your crew, pick your must-try fair foods, and make one more trip to see Big Tex before the gates close.

Book your stay at www.SheratonDallas.com and make your State Fair visit one to remember. Sheraton Dallas Hotel is located at 400 North Olive Street, Dallas, Texas 75201.

 

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Saddle Up co-chairs Grant and Courtney Pruitt, Rob

State Fair Saddle Up, the Big Tex Champion Club's annual boot-scootin' benefit, raised more than $320,000 for Texas students, where event co-chairs Robert Walne and Grant and Courtney Pruitt delivered a magnificent evening of high-spirited fun under the Texas stars at The Rustic Dallas.

Guests were treated to a live performance by American Idol's Cash Byers and Big Valley, live and silent auctions full of State Fair-themed experiences, midway-style games, special activations from brands like Yellow Rose by Kendra Scott and McKinney Hat Company, and plenty of Texas hospitality — all shared among a community that believes in the future of the State Fair and the Texas students it supports. Spotted in the crowd: State Fair of Texas President Mitchell Glieber and his wife Lisa, FOX 4's Steve Noviello and Paige Ellenberger, Chris Khale and Austin Green, The Ticket’s Donovan Lewis, Kat Dunn, and New Country 96.3 FM's Michelle Rodriguez.

A one-of-a-kind celebration with a heart as big as Big Tex, this kick-off to the State Fair put 100% of every bid and every table to work for the Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction and Scholarship Programs, which have awarded more than $25.3 million in auction awards and college scholarships to thousands of students across the Lone Star State since 2018 alone.

 

Photos by Imani Black

Patricia Chi
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Coppell Cross Country returned to Pike Middle School on Saturday, Oct. 3, to compete in the Byron Nelson Last Minute Meet after rain altered the team’s original plans to race at the Jesuit XC Classic.

While many of Coppell’s runners did not compete, about half of the team took advantage of one final opportunity to race a 5K before the District 7-6A Championship.

Cooler temperatures and rain made for favorable racing conditions, and Coppell finished the meet with 17 season-best or personal-record times.

Varsity Boys

Diego Morales continued his strong return to racing, finishing ninth in the Varsity Boys race with a time of 16:24.

His performance was about 20 seconds faster than the 16:44 he ran on the same course the previous week.

Isaiah Assefa also turned in a strong performance, running 16:41 to finish 14th.

Easterwood Wins Varsity Girls Race

Maya Easterwood led the way for Coppell in the Varsity Girls race, winning in 18:01.

Easterwood finished 25 seconds ahead of the second-place runner in just her second race of the season. After returning to competition last week, she once again looked strong and comfortable on the course.

JV Boys Finish Fourth

The Coppell JV Boys finished fourth as a team.

Baron Schott led the Cowboys with a ninth-place finish, followed closely by Austin Shelby in 10th. Oscar Martin, Alexander Marks and Calvin Wolf rounded out Coppell’s top five runners.

JV Girls Compete Well

Akshara Darisipudi was the top finisher for the Coppell JV Girls as the Cowgirls competed against a strong field.

For many of Coppell’s runners, Saturday provided one final chance to race, gain experience and build confidence before championship season begins.

Looking Ahead to District

Coppell now turns its attention to the District 7-6A Championship on Monday, Oct. 12, at Myers Park in McKinney.

After months of training and another week that produced numerous personal and season-best performances, the Cowboys and Cowgirls will spend the coming week preparing for their biggest meet of the season.

The Cowboys and Cowgirls will use the coming week to prepare for District and their return to Myers Park.

We’re proud of their efforts, and we’ll keep pushing forward until the next race!

Contact Information
For more details or to support Coppell High School’s Cross Country program, please contact:
Patricia Chi
chi.patricia@gmail.com
(469) 831-3709

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Defender Meet October Join us for a celebration of the iconic Land Rover! Show off your Land Rover or check out other drivers' impressive vehicles, meet other owners & enthusiasts, and enjoy a morning of food and music with the Experts in Excellence at Park Place Land Rover DFW! Featuring • Honey Lu's Food Craft Coffee Truck • Treats & Photo Opportunities for Your Four-Legged Co-Pilot Available Dogs for Adoption from Friends of Rescue Animals

Park Place Land Rover DFW will host a Land Rover Meetup on Saturday, October 17 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Land Rover owners and car enthusiasts alike are invited to show off their vehicles.  

The meetup will also welcome four-legged friends, with attendees encouraged to bring their dogs along for the event. Rowlett-based nonprofit Friends of Rescue Animals will be on-site with dogs available for adoption. A 2025 Park Place Season of Giving grant recipient, Friends of Rescue Animals is a 100% volunteer-operated nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of homeless pets in North Texas.

Food and beverage will also be available for purchase from Honey Lu’s Food Craft Coffee Truck, along with plenty of treats and photo opportunities for the furry friends in attendance.

“Meetups bring together people from all over North Texas and we always look forward to seeing who turns out and what vehicles are brought for display,” said Kara Connor, Community Engagement Manager at Park Place Dealerships. “We hope to see lots of four-legged adventure partners tagging along and encourage attendees to take a moment to connect with our nonprofit partner, Friends of Rescue Animals.”

Those interested in attending and displaying their vehicle at the Land Rover DFW Meetup can RSVP here.

About Park Place Dealerships

Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and employs more than 1,400 members. Park Place Dealership operates three collision centers, an auto auction, and nine full-service dealerships representing luxury brands including Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Land Rover, Acura, and Sprinter Vans. For more information, visit parkplace.com.

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Mouthwash, also called mouthrinse, can be a good boost to a daily oral healthcare routine. While it never replaces daily brushing and flossing, rinsing does reach areas difficult for a toothbrush. 

But do you really need mouthwash? Maybe not, said Dr. John Safar, clinical faculty in comprehensive dentistry at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas. 

“Those with excellent oral health don’t necessarily need a mouthwash if plaque is well controlled and they have no other oral health issues,” he said. “But some rinses can help re-mineralize enamel and protect against cavities.”  

If you are unsure, ask your dentist. 

To fight against gingivitis and reduce plaque, choose a therapeutic mouthwash with cetylpyridinium chloride or essential oils; all are chemical compounds that kill bacteria. It’s found in many over-the-counter products, but dentists also prescribe mouthwashes with chlorhexidine for bad breath to target the volatile sulfur compounds and to guard against tooth decay. 

“Dentists can prescribe rinse formulations that ease pain from oral lesions,” Safar said. “They also suggest hydrogen peroxide to brighten smiles or to mimic saliva to help lubricate oral tissues and improve comfort.” 

Children under 6 years old shouldn’t use mouthwash unless directed by their dentists. Their swallowing reflexes aren’t fully developed, according to the American Dental Association. A small swig usually isn’t a cause for alarm and generally won’t bring side effects but seek medical attention if a child drinks a large amount or if you’re unsure how much was ingested. 

“Stay calm and check the bottle’s label for alcohol, fluoride and antimicrobial ingredients that could irritate small stomachs,” Safar said. “If your child shows signs of intoxication, is nauseous or drowsy, seek immediate emergency medical treatment.”  

Alcohol-free rinses also are usually gentler, making them good choices for those with sensitive gums, dry mouths or an aversion to “the mouthwash burn.” 

Mouthwashes with alcohol are usually more effective against oral bacteria. Their essential oils help reduce plaque and gingivitis. 

Timing also matters, Safar said.  

“Avoid using mouthwash immediately after brushing, as it can wash away the protective benefits left behind by your toothpaste,” he said. “Waiting also ensures that the ingredients in both products don’t interfere with each other’s effectiveness.” 

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The ancient Chinese believed music could purify people's minds.  Test that theory one yourself while enjoying traditional Chinese music with the Dallas Hua Yun Chinese Orchestra at 7:30 p.m. Friday, October 9, at the Allen Public Library, no tickets nor reservations.

The free concert will feature multiple soloists on traditional Chinese instruments that include plucked, mouth-blown, and bowed string. The soloists are Dan Wang with "Sheng", Yuxin Mei with "Pipa," and Daniel Chen with "Erhu", "Gaohu", and "Banhu.”

Dedicated to Sino-American cultural exchange, Dallas Hua Yun Chinese Orchestra is the most prominent Chinese music group in the DFW metroplex. Under the direction of James Wang, the band features a variety of traditional Chinese instruments. The concert will feature multiple soloists on traditional Chinese instruments that include plucked, mouth-blown, and bowed string. 

The orchestra, which has held an annual concert at the University of Texas at Dallas since 2014, promotes Chinese traditional music education and inspires the pleasure of Chinese music with international audiences.  It serves the community through many local events such as the Plano AsiaFest, Crow Museum’s Chinese Spring Festival, and other venues. 

Serving as conductor, Dan Wang was a national competition winner and renowned player of Sheng (a traditional Chinese polyphonic pipe wind musical instrument), she started a professional conductor career in Tianjin Opera and Dance Theatre.

Dr. Yuxin Mei, the Pipa soloist, is the founder and director of Chinese Ensemble at University of North Texas and garnered a PhD in music from UNT.

Daniel Chen, the first chair of Huayun Chinese Orchestra, is a hugely talented performer for all two stringed instruments.

 

Sponsored by the Allen Public Library, the concert is free.  The library is located at 300 N. Allen Dr.  Call 214-509-4911.