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 The beverages we choose quietly shape the health of our smiles. Some drinks strengthen and protect teeth, while others slowly wear away enamel – the outer white part that keeps teeth strong, bright and resistant to cavities. 

Many popular beverages contain high acidity, said Dr. John Safar, clinical faculty in comprehensive dentistry at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas. When acidity lowers the pH in the mouth, enamel begins to dissolve.  

“Research shows that enamel starts to weaken below pH 5.5, and many commercial drinks fall between pH 2 and pH 4–a range where erosion accelerates rapidly,” Safar said.  

Once enamel softens, everyday habits such as chewing, brushing or grinding can remove it forever.  

“Over time, that can lead to sensitivity, yellowing, cavities and even tooth loss,” he said. 

It’s National Wellness Month in August, a time to adopt or strengthen healthy habits. In observance, here are A&M Dentistry’s recommendations for three of the best and three of the worst beverages: 

Good gulps 

Water 

Standard drinking water is the optimal choice for oral health because it’s sugar-free and contains little acid.  

“Water offers additional protection against cavities, helps rinse away food particles, reduces the risk of gum disease and supports saliva production,” Safar said. “Adequate saliva flow neutralizes acids and protects enamel from decay and erosion.”  

Some bottled waters have low pH levels. Check the labels. 

Milk 

Milk protects tooth enamel and can reduce tooth decay because of its calcium, vitamins, fats and proteins.  

“Dairy products such as milk and yogurt provide preventive properties by neutralizing acids and providing minerals needed for enamel strength,” Safar said. 

However, milk contains natural sugar. Drinking it in excess can cause tooth decay, so brush your teeth before bed to prevent cavities. 

Unsweetened tea 

Unsweetened tea is low in sugar and acidity, making it a tooth-friendly choice.  

“Drinking tea in moderation helps keep your enamel strong, and rinsing your mouth with water after tea consumption can reduce staining,” Safar said. 

Beverage baddies 

Sodas  

Sodas are among the most acidic and erosive beverages. That includes sugar-free diet sodas.  

“The carbonation increases acidity, and most sodas have pH levels well below pH 5.5, resulting in enamel erosion, increased levels of tooth sensitivity and a higher risk of cavities,” Safar said. 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported that one 12-ounce can of regular soda contains about 10 teaspoons of added sugars. They, as well as other sugary drinks, contribute to cavities, weight gain, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and gout. 

Sports and energy drinks 

Despite their popularity, sports and energy drinks often contain high amounts of sugar and acids.  

“These beverages also have low pH levels, reducing enamel surface hardness and contributing to tooth erosion and cavities,” Safar said. “Frequent consumption is particularly harmful to children and teens because they can lose their permanent teeth early in adulthood.” 

Fruit juices 

While fruit juices may seem like healthier options, their acidity and sugar content can harm teeth. Even all-natural choices such as orange juice and lemonade contain enough acid to erode enamel.  

“Many juices fall between pH 2.25 and pH 4.69, placing them in the erosive zone,” Safar said. “Diluting juices with water can reduce their erosive potential, but they should be consumed sparingly.” 

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From left: Shelton Parents' Association Co-President Kimberly Kahn, Meghan Miller, DeLana Mullins, Amanda Smart, Susan Collins, Lisa Kresl and Shelton Parents' Association Co-President Leigh Erin Lundy.

Three Shelton teachers and two administrators received the 2025-2026 Shelton Parents’ Association Recognition Kudos (SPARK) Award during the May 22, 2026, End-of-the-Year Staff Appreciation Luncheon.

This marks the eleventh year the Shelton Parents’ Association has presented the recognition based on comments from the spring parent survey. Each recipient received a crystal SPARK statue, thanks to SPA’s Emily Touchstone, along with a monetary award.

Special thanks to the Shelton Parents’ Association for recognizing the extraordinary impact Shelton faculty and staff have on students and families. 

LOWER SCHOOL TEACHER SUSAN COLLINS

  • Honored for transforming the school experience for students and helping children rediscover a love of learning
  • Master of Arts in Education, Dallas Baptist University
  • Certified Academic Language Practitioner and Montessori primary certified

One parent shared that her child now “jumps up with anticipation for the school day.”

MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHER AMANDA SMART

  • Honored for building confidence, self-advocacy and meaningful relationships with students
  • Master of Arts in Liberal Arts, Southern Methodist University
  • Joined Shelton in 2022

One nomination described Ms. Smart as “attentive, responsive and deeply invested in her students.”

UPPER SCHOOL TEACHER DELANA MULLINS

  • Honored for her encouragement, compassion and leadership with students and colleagues
  • Bachelor of Arts in Education, Texas Tech University
  • Joined Shelton in 2023

One nomination described Ms. Mullins as “a dedicated and creative teacher, and a helpful and kind colleague.”

DIRECTOR OF ADMISSION MEGHAN MILLER

  • Honored for her leadership, compassion and dedication to Shelton families
  • Gives hundreds of campus tours each year and supports families throughout the admission process
  • Master of Education in Early Childhood Education, Southern Methodist University
  • Certified Academic Language Therapist and Educational Diagnostician

Executive Director Suzanne Stell praised Mrs. Miller for the many ways she supports prospective families.

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING LISA KRESL

  • Honored for her storytelling, leadership and dedication to Shelton’s mission
  • Led Shelton’s 50th anniversary communications and storytelling efforts
  • Passionate about sharing stories of hope and success featuring Shelton students and alumni
  • Former Deputy Managing Editor, The Dallas Morning News
  • Mother of Will Kresl (Shelton Class of 2017)

“Her passion for storytelling and human interest has helped her champion Shelton’s mission,” Executive Director Suzanne Stell said.

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Grand Opening Sherman

Woodland Cottages is now open in Sherman, bringing a new maintenance-free living option for adults 55 and older to the Texoma region.

Developed by Carbon Shepherd Development, the gated active adult community at 3306 W. Houston St. celebrated its grand opening Aug. 13 with a Tri-Chamber ribbon cutting alongside the Sherman, Denison and Pottsboro Area Chambers of Commerce.

The community features one- and two-bedroom homes with attached garages, zero-threshold showers and select fenced backyards. Amenities include a clubhouse, fitness center, swimming pool, pickleball court and a calendar of social events.

Prospective residents can now tour the community and explore available homes.

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By Dr. Joel Wayne Walker, WellMed Medical Management

Hard to believe, but true: tiny little mosquitoes carry serious, sometimes deadly disease. After all of the torrential rain and resulting standing water in Texas, mosquitoes are out in force.

 

According to the Texas Department of Health and Human Services there have been 976 total West Nile cases reported in Texas during the last five years with 106 deaths in the state attributed to West Nile. 

 

West Nile virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the United States. Each year, more than 1,300 people develop severe illness that affects the central nervous system, and more than 130 people die.

 

Mosquitoes are more than just an itchy nuisance; they can carry and transmit diseases that pose serious health risks. Knowing precautions to take is crucial, especially for those living in mosquito-prone areas like Texas. 

Understanding the threat of mosquitoes

The most prevalent mosquito-borne illnesses include West Nile virus, Dengue fever and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). While West Nile virus is the most reported domestic threat in the United States, Dengue remains the world's most widespread mosquito-borne virus, with rising case numbers in both tropical regions and parts of Texas.

 

West Nile Virus

Tracked by the CDC West Nile virus index, this illness peaks in late summer. It is transmitted primarily by Culex mosquitoes and remains a widespread concern.

West Nile virus can sometimes cause severe neurological diseases. Most people infected with West Nile virus experience no symptoms or mild, flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches. However, in severe cases, the virus can lead to encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord). These are life-threatening illnesses. Older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe complications.

 

Dengue Fever

Prevalent globally, Dengue is increasingly reported in the southern United States, including Texas. Detailed local case tracking and travel warnings are available via the CDC Dengue Background. Dengue fever is a viral infection that can cause severe flu-like symptoms, including high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash and mild bleeding (nose or gum bleeding). In extreme cases, dengue fever can develop into dengue hemorrhagic fever, a potentially life-threatening condition that causes bleeding, blood plasma leakage and low platelet count.

 

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)

A rarer but potentially severe neurological disease that is currently active, particularly in coastal and humid regions. EEE is a rare but severe mosquito-borne viral disease that causes inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). It is transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito that has fed on infected birds. Most cases in the United States occur in the eastern or Gulf Coast states. Symptoms typically appear 3 to 10 days after an infected mosquito bite. The disease progresses in stages, sometimes leading to severe neurological issues. There is no cure or specific medication for EEE, nor is there a human vaccine. Treatment primarily consists of supportive hospital care, including intravenous fluids and respiratory support. Prevention relies entirely on avoiding mosquito bites.

 

How to prevent mosquito bites

Preventing mosquito bites is your first line of defense against mosquito-borne illnesses. Here are some effective strategies:

 

  • Use insect repellents – Applying EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, Para-menthane-diol, or lemon eucalyptus oil can significantly reduce the risk of mosquito bites. Ensure you follow the product instructions and reapply as directed, especially if you spend extended periods outdoors.
  • Wear protective clothing – Wear loose-fitting long sleeves, long pants, and socks to minimize skin exposure. Look for clothes and gear treated with permethrin. Light-colored clothing is less attractive to mosquitoes and can further reduce the likelihood of bites.
  • Install screens and use mosquito nets – Keeping windows and doors closed or installing fine mesh screens can prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. If you're in a high-risk area, consider using mosquito nets around your bed for added protection.
  • Avoid peak mosquito hours – Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk. Stay indoors during these times or take extra precautions if you need to be outside.

 

Treating mosquito bites

Despite your best efforts, you might still get bitten. Here’s how to treat mosquito bites effectively:

 

  • Clean the bite area: Wash the bite area with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.
  • Apply anti-itch creams: Over-the-counter anti-itch creams or lotions containing hydrocortisone can help alleviate itching and reduce swelling.
  • Use cold compresses: Applying a cold compress to the bite can help reduce inflammation and relieve itching and discomfort.
  • Avoid scratching: Scratching can worsen the itching and increase the risk of infection. Try to keep your hands off the bite to let it heal properly.
  • Baking soda and water paste: Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with a small amount of water to make a paste. Apply it to the bite and wait 10 minutes to rinse it off.

 

Eliminating mosquitoes in your yard and home

Creating a less attractive environment for mosquitoes is key to keeping them away from your living spaces. Here’s how you can achieve that:

 

  • Remove standing water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water. Regularly check and eliminate standing water from bird baths, flowerpots, gutters and other containers around your yard.
  • Maintain your yard: Keep your grass trimmed and your shrubs well-maintained. Mosquitoes like to rest in tall grass and bushes so a tidy yard can reduce their presence.
  • Use mosquito traps: Mosquito traps can effectively reduce the mosquito population in your yard. These devices attract and capture mosquitoes, helping to lower their numbers.
  • Install outdoor fans: Mosquitoes are weak fliers. Installing outdoor fans on your porch or patio can help keep them away by creating a breeze they find difficult to navigate.

 

Indoor mosquito control

 

  • Use indoor insecticides: Consider using indoor insecticides or mosquito foggers to eliminate mosquitoes inside your home. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe and effective use.
  • Maintain cleanliness: Ensure your home is clean and clutter-free where mosquitoes can hide. Regular cleaning can help keep these pests at bay.
  • Seal entry points: Check and seal any gaps or cracks in windows, doors, and walls that mosquitoes might use to enter your home.

 

Stay safe from mosquito-borne illness

Mosquitoes are more than an annoyance; they are potential carriers of serious diseases. You can protect yourself and your family from these pests by taking proactive steps to prevent bites, treating any bites that occur, and maintaining a mosquito-free environment.

Resources:

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The Dallas Symphony Orchestra is set to raise the curtain on its highly anticipated 2026–2027 season, bringing an exciting lineup of world-class music and unforgettable performances to the heart of Dallas for audiences of all kinds. From powerful symphonic masterpieces and beloved classics to acclaimed guest artists and bold new works, the season celebrates the artistry, innovation, and passion that have made the DSO a cultural cornerstone of the city.

Pops concert highlights include:

To view the full events calendar and learn more about the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, please visit DallasSymphony.org. Meyerson Symphony Center is located at 2301 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201.

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There are two great ways to support Folds of Honor North Texas this fall, and both help provide educational scholarships to the families of fallen or disabled U.S. service members and first responders.

First up, grab a paddle and join us for the Folds of Honor North Texas Patriot Pickleball Classic on Friday, Sept. 11, from 1-4 p.m. at Game On Indoor Sports Complex in Fort Worth. Come ready for an afternoon of pickleball, community, and a chance to support local scholarship families.

Then, mark your calendar for one of our biggest nights of the year. The 2026 North Texas Folds of Honor Gala will take place Saturday, Nov. 14, at The Field at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. The evening brings together military and first responder families, veterans, scholarship recipients, and supporters from across North Texas for a VIP reception, dinner, auction, live entertainment, and a special guest appearance.

Funds raised at the Gala will help Folds of Honor continue providing educational scholarships to the spouses and children of those who have sacrificed in service to our country and communities.

Join us this fall as we honor their sacrifice and educate their legacy.

Learn more about upcoming events and ways to get involved at northtexas.foldsofhonor.org.

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Brynn Bagot Public Relations (BBPR), a Dallas-based public relations firm, is proudly celebrating its 25th anniversary, marking a quarter century of shaping conversations, elevating brands and helping businesses, nonprofit organizations and community leaders make a lasting impact through strategic communications. 

Founded in 2001 by Brynn Bagot, the agency has earned a reputation for delivering thoughtful, results-driven communications strategies tailored to each client’s unique goals. Over the past 25 years, BBPR has successfully led media relations campaigns, brand development initiatives, event publicity, social media strategy and community engagement efforts for clients across a wide range of industries.

“Twenty-five years ago, I took a leap of faith and started this agency with a vision for the kind of firm I wanted to build – one grounded in relationships, integrity and a genuine commitment to our clients. Reaching this milestone is both humbling and incredibly rewarding.  I’m deeply grateful to the clients who have trusted us, the talented people who have been part of our team, and the friends and partners who have supported us along the way. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built, and I couldn’t be more excited about the next chapter,” said Brynn Bagot, founder and president of Brynn Bagot Public Relations.

Known for its personalized approach and relentless commitment to client success, BBPR blends strategic communications with creative storytelling to secure meaningful media coverage, amplify brand visibility and create authentic connections that drive results. The agency’s capabilities include strategic communications, public relations campaigns, media relations, social media management, corporate branding, event planning and publicity, media training, sports and entertainment marketing, special events, and marketing development.

Throughout its 25-year history, BBPR has helped launch brands, celebrate milestones, navigate challenges and elevate organizations across industries including real estate, nonprofit, architecture and design, construction, consumer products and services, fashion, retail, health and beauty, education, sports, professional services, senior living, public affairs, hospitality, food and beverage, and more. From high-profile corporate announcements and grand openings to community initiatives and record-breaking fundraising campaigns, the firm has become a trusted extension of its clients' teams, delivering strategic communications that create lasting impact.

As BBPR celebrates this milestone and looks toward the future, the firm remains committed to embracing new opportunities, evolving alongside the communications industry and delivering the strategic counsel, creativity and trusted relationships that have defined its first 25 years. With a legacy built on integrity and results, BBPR is poised to continue helping clients tell the stories that matter most for years to come.

For more information about Brynn Bagot Public Relations, visit https://www.brynnbagot.com/ or follow us on Instagram, @brynnbagotpr.

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First-year dental student Carrie Clement watches from the audience with other incoming dental students. She graduated from A&M Dentistry’s dental hygiene program in 2023. (Steven Crow/Texas A&M University College of Dentistry)

Texas A&M University College of Dentistry’s new dental and dental hygiene students, 134 of them, gathered just before the start of the semester this month to receive their white coats – the symbol of joining the dental profession. The White Coat Ceremony is an annual tradition for the dental college, which opened in Dallas in 1905. 

Donning the white coats marks the students’ entry into the clinical phase of dental education and signifies their pledge to assume responsibility for patient care. It represents core values of respect, excellence, leadership, loyalty, integrity, and selfless service, said Dr. Lily T. García, dean and a 1984 alumna of the dental college. 

“We expect each of you, as either a dental hygienist or dentist, to acknowledge your responsibilities in providing competent, compassionate, and high-quality oral healthcare as your lifelong aspiration,” she said. “Having you wear the white coat as you enter this field of study is a reminder of the significance of your choice as you enter our profession.” 

The new students enrolled in the four-year dental program are expected to graduate in 2030. Nearly 1,500 students applied for admission to A&M Dentistry for the first-year dental class.  

There are 30 first-year students in the bachelor’s-level dental hygiene program. They are expected to graduate in 2028. 

 

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Elizabeth Carlock Phillips ProtectHER Award honoree

New Friends New Life (NFNL) announces the recipients of its 2026 ProtectHER Awards: Baker Botts and Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., Elizabeth Carlock Phillips, and Janet Jensen. The awards, sponsored by Thomson Reuters, will be presented at the annual NFNL Stand for Her Luncheon, on September 24 at the Hyatt Regency Dallas. The luncheon will feature actress, producer, and founder/CEO Tracee Ellis Ross in a conversation moderated by NBC 5 anchor Laura Harris.

Community leaders Lottye and Bobby Lyle will serve as honorary luncheon chairs, joining mother-daughter co-chair teams Beth Thoele and Brooke Russo and Kathy Helm and Marci Kramer in leading the event, which supports NFNL’s mission to restore and empower survivors of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation.

Established in 2013, the ProtectHER Awards recognize individuals, corporations, and agencies whose leadership and service advance the protection, dignity, and value of women and girls in Dallas, across the nation, and around the world. Past recipients include Erin Nealy Cox, The Meadows Foundation, Methodist Health Systems, Santander Consumer USA Foundation, Inc., and Southwest Airlines.

For the past two years, the Baker Botts/Toyota Pro Bono Legal Clinic has played a critical role in supporting members of NFNL’s Women’s Program by providing free legal services that remove barriers to stability and independence. From addressing family law matters to resolving issues that impact employment, housing, and financial security, the clinic has helped survivors move forward with confidence and hope.

“Each year these partnering entities show up with expertise wrapped in empathy, lighting the legal path forward for our members” said Bianca Davis, CEO, NFNL. "Their unwavering commitment helps remove barriers that too often stand between survivors and the fresh start they deserve."

Through her tireless advocacy for Trey’s Law, Elizabeth Carlock Phillips has become a powerful voice for survivors of sexual abuse and human trafficking. This landmark legislation prohibits the use of nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) to silence survivors of sexual abuse, child sexual abuse, and human trafficking. Inspired by the tragic loss of her brother, Trey Carlock, who experienced childhood sexual abuse at a summer camp and died by suicide in 2019 at the age of 28, Phillips courageously shared his story with lawmakers to help ensure survivors would never again be silenced. Today, Trey's Law is helping hold perpetrators accountable in Texas and serving as a model for similar legislation across the country.

“At New Friends New Life, we recognize the courage and tenacity required to impact legislative change,” said Davis. “Elizabeth has transformed personal tragedy into meaningful action, creating protections that will benefit survivors for generations to come."

As founder of The Jensen Project, Janet Jensen has transformed the way organizations serving women and girls affected by gender-based violence build capacity and strengthen their impact. Through strategic funding, leadership development, collaboration, and technical support, The Jensen Project has equipped agencies across the country with the resources needed to expand services, improve outcomes, and better serve survivors.

"The Jensen Project's advocacy, investment, and commitment to collaboration have strengthened the anti-trafficking movement and created meaningful, measurable progress for survivors nationwide," Davis added. "Janet understands that lasting change happens when organizations are equipped to work together, and her leadership continues to elevate the entire field."

“Thomson Reuters is proud to stand alongside New Friends New Life in honoring these ProtectHER Award recipients,” said Heather Panton, Senior Advisor of Social Impact and Human Rights, Thomson Reuters. “Their tireless efforts reflect the values we champion – truth, justice, and human dignity. We are committed to leveraging our data, technology, and subject matter expertise to help combat trafficking in communities across the U.S. and around the world.”

Underwriting sponsorship opportunities begin at $3,000. A limited number of individual tickets are available at $300. To reserve sponsorships or seats, visit www.newfriendsnewlife.org/luncheon, email events@newfriendsnewlife.org, or contact Chief Development Officer Priya Murphy at 214-217-8652. Media Sponsor is NBC 5/ Telemundo 39.

# # #

About New Friends New Life (NFNL)

Founded in Dallas in 1998, New Friends New Life (NFNL) is an award-winning organization that restores and empowers trafficked and sexually exploited teen girls, women, and their children while leading efforts to end sex trafficking and exploitation through awareness, advocacy, and systemic change. In 2025, NFNL served 320 teen girls, women, and their children, providing holistic programs that support stability, emotional healing, education, economic mobility, and long-term independence. NFNL advances its mission through advocacy, legislative reform, community education, and strategic partnerships. Its drop-in Youth Resource Center (YRC), launched in partnership with the Texas Governor's Office, has provided comprehensive preventative and restorative services to more than 700 trafficked and high-risk teen girls since opening in 2018. NFNL’s Men's Advocacy Group has engaged men in the fight against sex trafficking and exploitation since 2015. In 2024, NFNL was named the D CEO Nonprofit and Corporate Citizenship Organization of the Year (Midsize). For more information, visit www.newfriendsnewlife.org.

Patricia Chi
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It was a fun change of pace for the Coppell Cowboys and Cowgirls as they traded an early morning 5K for a two-mile race under the lights at McInnish Park. The Friday Night Hawk Invite is one of the kids’ favorite meets of the year. It’s close to home, the atmosphere is different, and getting the chance to race at night makes the meet a little more special.

Even with the shorter distance, the race came with its own challenges. With little breeze, warm conditions and uneven ground to navigate in the darkness, the runners still had to stay focused and race hard from start to finish.

Coppell competed across six divisions, with several strong team and individual finishes throughout the night. The Elite Varsity Boys came especially close to taking home the team title, finishing 2nd out of 10 teams, while the JV Boys earned 3rd place in a large field of 29 teams. On the girls’ side, many of Coppell’s younger runners continued to gain valuable racing experience.

“This is one of the kids' favorite meets of the year,” Coach Wren said. “It's close to home and getting to run at night is a really cool experience.”

Individual and Team Highlights

Elite Varsity Boys — 2nd Place Overall

The Elite Varsity Boys came within reach of winning the meet, finishing 2nd overall out of 10 teams. Alesh Khowala and Tanish Neelapu led the way, finishing just one second apart in 5th and 6th place.

Top Performers:

  • Alesh Khowala — 5th, 10:24

  • Tanish Neelapu — 6th, 10:25

  • Vihaan Sahni — 17th, 10:42

  • Marco Noyola — 19th, 10:48

  • Isaiah Assefa — 20th, 10:49

With 77 runners in the Elite Varsity Boys race, Coppell placed all five of its top runners in the Top 20.

Coach Wren was happy with the effort, even though the team came just short of the top spot.

“I was really pleased with how they ran overall,” he said. “We just missed out on 1st place. The kids were prepared and competed hard.”

Elite Varsity Girls — 7th Place Overall

For the Elite Varsity Girls, this part of the season is also about gaining experience. The team is currently made up entirely of freshmen and sophomores, giving the younger runners an opportunity to learn with each race.

The girls finished 7th overall out of 11 teams in a field of 79 runners.

 

Top Performers:

  • Finleigh Sanders — 28th, 13:02

  • Rachel Stumm — 33rd, 13:17

  • Bishakha Sinha — 41st, 13:26

  • Mirabelle Sagel — 43rd, 13:30

Coach Wren sees each meet as another opportunity for this young group to develop.

“We have a lot of youth running on our Elite Varsity Girls team right now with only sophomore and freshmen runners,” he said. “They continue to compete hard and learn more and more every time they race. They'll continue to grow as the year moves on.”

Varsity Boys — 13th Place Overall

The Varsity Boys competed in a much larger field, with 213 runners and 27 teams taking part in the race.

Coppell entered a team of only six runners, all upperclassmen, and finished 13th overall.

Top Performer:

  • Abishek Suresh — 13th, 10:52

Suresh led the group with a Top 15 individual finish.

“It was only a team of 6 made up of upperclassmen,” Coach Wren said. “I was proud of their effort.”

Varsity Girls — 12th Place Overall

The Varsity Girls also faced a large field, competing against 179 runners and 24 teams. Like the Varsity Boys, this group was primarily made up of upperclassmen.

Top Performers:

  • Shrriya Bedse — 35th, 14:11

  • Avery Fishman — 66th, 14:45

The girls finished 12th overall as a team.

“This team was primarily made up of upperclassmen as well,” Coach Wren said. “These girls work extremely hard in practice, and it was fun to see them compete underneath the lights.”

JV Boys — 3rd Place Overall

One of the strongest team finishes of the night came from the JV Boys. With 366 runners and 29 teams in the race, it was the largest field of the night.

Coppell worked its way to an impressive 3rd-place team finish, with Ahan Kothalkar leading the group in 8th place.

Top Performers:

  • Ahan Kothalkar — 8th, 11:50

  • Colten Karstendiek — 17th, 12:02

  • Jake Terry — 28th, 12:36

For Coach Wren, the result was encouraging not only because of the team placement, but also because of what he saw from the runners throughout the race.

“I loved what I saw from the JV boys last night,” he said. “Many of them ran really good races that will lead to more confidence in future races. Finishing 3rd out of 29 teams is a good accomplishment.”

JV Girls — 12th Place Overall

The JV Girls had an especially young group on the course Friday night—the entire team was made up of freshmen.

They competed in another large field, with 348 runners representing 28 teams, and finished 12th overall.

Top Performers:

  • Adeline Mendola — 36th, 15:25

  • Sehbin Lee — 38th, 15:32

  • Mackenzie Fluornoy — 66th, 15:56

Coach Wren was encouraged by the progress he continues to see from this freshman group.

“This team was made up of all freshmen,” he said. “This class works extremely hard in practice, and it is beginning to show in the meets. They continue to get better each week.”

Looking Ahead

Next week, Coppell heads to Wylie for the DUBEast Invitational on Friday morning. The meet will primarily give the team’s younger and less experienced runners another opportunity to race, gain experience and continue building confidence.

“We run at the DUBEast Invitational in Wylie next Friday morning,” Coach Wren said. “This meet will primarily be for our younger and more inexperienced runners. The kids continue to show up every day and do the necessary things to get better. As a coach, it's fun to be a part of such a hardworking, coachable group. I'm excited to see us continue to grow as a team.”

With another race in the books, Coppell’s runners will keep working, learning and getting stronger as the season moves forward.

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

Contact Information

For more details or to support the team, please contact:

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