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When Pets Hurt: Shining a Light on Animal Pain

Every September, the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management (IVAPM) leads a powerful initiative: Animal Pain Awareness Month. This campaign runs alongside human medicine’s Pain Awareness Month with one vital message—animals feel pain, too, and it's time we get better at recognizing it.

More than 45 million household pets suffer from acute or chronic pain. But unlike humans, they can’t tell us where it hurts. Instead, they rely on subtle shifts in behavior—many of which go unnoticed until the pain becomes severe. From arthritic joints and back injuries to dental disease and internal conditions, undiagnosed pain can quietly impact a pet’s mobility, appetite, and quality of life.

Pain is often hidden; it’s a survival instinct. That’s why regular pain assessments—at least once a year—should be part of every veterinary exam.

Recognizing the Signs

The IVAPM outlines common behaviors that may indicate a pet is experiencing pain:

  • Reduced activity or reluctance to exercise
  • Difficulty with stairs or standing up after rest
  • Decreased playfulness or avoidance of jumping
  • Changes in appetite or interest in food
  • Over-grooming or licking a specific area, or a lack of grooming (especially in cats)
  • Accidents or difficulty using the litter box
  • Faster breathing, especially at rest
  • Altered routines, including sleep or hiding behavior

Even small changes in a pet’s habits can signal a deeper issue. What may seem like a pet “just getting older” could actually be untreated pain.

Proactive Pain Management

Fortunately, veterinary medicine has evolved to offer a wide spectrum of effective pain treatments. Alongside traditional medications, many practices now offer non-pharmacologic therapies such as:

  • Acupuncture
  • Laser therapy
  • Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF)
  • Ozone therapy
  • Shockwave therapy
  • Regenerative Medicine / Joint Injections
  • Physical rehabilitation and exercise plans

Combined with proper nutrition and low-impact daily activity, these integrative therapies can significantly improve a pet’s comfort and longevity—often with fewer side effects than medications alone.

Take Action

If your pet seems “off,” don’t write it off as age or personality. Schedule a thorough veterinary exam that includes a pain assessment. Catching discomfort early leads to better outcomes, happier pets, and more peace of mind for pet parents.

The IVAPM continues to lead the charge in education and advocacy around animal pain. Their goal is simple: empower veterinary professionals and pet owners to prevent, recognize, and treat pain—before it steals your pet’s joy.  Please visit www.ivapm.org for more information.

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Harry Potter at the DSO - Credit Warner Bros. Ente

Wands at the ready! The magic of Hogwarts is returning to Dallas. From September 4 to 7, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra invites audiences to relive the adventure of Harry Potter & the Order of the Phoenix™ in Concert at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.

Audiences will watch Harry, Hermione and Ron take on their fifth year at Hogwarts on the big screen while the DSO performs Nicholas Hooper’s powerful score live, immersing audiences in every thrilling moment. With the music brought to life by a full orchestra, fans will feel like they’ve been whisked straight into the wizarding world.

It’s a chance for fans of all ages to experience Harry Potter like never before, with the power and intensity of a world-class orchestra. Costumes and house spirit are encouraged, making it a fun, family-friendly event for longtime fans and new generations alike. Whether you’re a proud Gryffindor, a cunning Slytherin, a wise Ravenclaw or a loyal Hufflepuff, this is an unforgettable way to experience one of Harry’s most thrilling adventures!

Tickets start at $78. Secure your spots now at dallassymphony.org.

 Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center is located in Downtown Dallas at 2301 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201.

Patricia Chi
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The Coppell High School cross-country teams opened their 2024 season under the lights at McInnish Park this past Friday night, competing against 22 schools at the annual Friday Night Hawk Invitational. The two-mile night race provided a unique atmosphere, and Coppell athletes delivered standout performances across all divisions.

Cowboys Highlights

Coach Wren reflected, “It was a cool experience for the kids to run underneath the lights on a Friday night. Although the race was only 2 miles, I saw a lot of good things from the kids.”

Freshman Vihaan Sahni won the JV Boys’ division, while fellow freshman Vihaan Sharma led Coppell’s Varsity squad as its top performer. In the Elite Varsity Boys’ race, Diego Morales finished in the top five, with teammates Tanish Neelapu and Sam Meier both placing in the top 10. Freshman Tyler Kim also stood out as the fastest Coppell ninth grader.

Cowgirls Highlights

On the girls’ side, Coach Wren noted, “Overall, I was pleased with how many of our younger runners competed. I look forward to seeing them continue to improve as the year goes on.”

Freshman Charlotte Baade, recently cleared from injury, secured a top-10 finish in the JV Girls’ race. In Varsity competition, freshman Hannah Stumm emerged as Coppell’s top finisher.

The Elite Varsity Girls’ race was highlighted by senior standout Maya Easterwood, who dominated the field to win by nearly 40 seconds. Four Coppell freshmen — Rachel Stumm, Finleigh Sanders-Burk, Anusha Patki, and Bishakha Sinha — followed close behind, with Rachel and Finleigh earning top-20 finishes.

Looking Ahead

With a strong mix of experienced leaders and promising newcomers, the Coppell Cowboys and Cowgirls are poised for a memorable season. The team next competes at the Luke’s Locker 6-Mile Relay, an early test of both depth and teamwork.

 

Contact Information

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

 

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The Dallas Public Library is at risk.

The City of Dallas has proposed a $4.5 million cut to the library system over the next two years. While that number may sound small at just 0.02% of the City’s overall budget, the impact would be devastating. These cuts could lead to the closure of up to five beloved neighborhood branches, result in staff reductions, and eliminate vital community services.

Dallas residents deserve better. A strong library system costs the city little but delivers extraordinary returns for everyone who calls Dallas home.

 

Why It Matters:

Libraries fuel opportunity and growth.

  • They connect people to career resources, job training, and internet access, especially for those who lack access at home.

  • They help children thrive through early literacy programs, summer reading, and after-school support.

  • They provide free, safe, welcoming spaces for everyone.

Libraries strengthen communities.

  • Research shows that neighborhoods with libraries have lower crime rates and stronger community ties.

  • Closing branches erodes trust between residents and the city, leaving fewer safe gathering places for learning and connection.

Cuts cost people.

  • Closing branches and eliminating programs will disproportionately affect low-income families and students who rely on free educational resources.

  • Staff reductions mean job losses for librarians and community specialists who are the heart of our libraries.

 

How You Can Help:

Dallas libraries belong to all of us. Together, we can stop these cuts and ensure that every resident has access to the resources, opportunities, and safe spaces that libraries provide.


A city is only as strong as its libraries. Let’s make sure Dallas invests in opportunity, equity, and community, not cuts.

Jennifer Halstead
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Grapevine, TX – August 19, 2025 – SERVPRO Team Shaw is proud to announce its inclusion on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in America, a recognition that reflects both rapid expansion and a lasting commitment to communities across Texas. 

“The past five years of growth have been nothing short of amazing,” said CEO of SERVPRO Team Shaw. “We’ve added opportunities for our people at every level of the company while expanding services that allow us to make a bigger difference in the communities we serve. That combination—people growing and communities benefitting—is what makes this milestone so meaningful.” 

With more than 30 franchise locations and 250+ employees, Team Shaw has become the largest SERVPRO operation in Texas. Along the way, the company has expanded services, launched new business divisions, and created opportunities for its employees to grow and lead. 

“This recognition reflects what happens when growth creates a ripple effect,” said the company’s CAO. “More opportunities for our team members. More resources to serve our customers. More impact in the communities where we live and work. That’s the story behind these past five years—and the reason this honor matters.” 

This award joins other recent honors, including being named one of the Fastest-Growing Mid-Market Companies in DFW by the Dallas Business Journal and recognition by Smart Business Dealmakers.

“Every step of our growth has been about building something bigger than ourselves,” the CEO added. “By expanding services, creating careers, and strengthening communities, we’ve proven that growth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people. That’s what we’re celebrating today.” 

For more updates and community stories, follow SERVPRO Team Shaw on LinkedIn.

About SERVPRO Team Shaw
Founded in Grapevine, TX, SERVPRO Team Shaw has grown from a small operation into one of the Country’s largest SERVPRO franchise groups. With 30+ locations and more than 250 employees, the company provides 24/7 residential and commercial restoration services, including water, fire, storm, and reconstruction. SERVPRO Team Shaw is committed to building resilient communities across Texas and South Carolina through readiness, technology, and people-first service.
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Bring the whole family back to Oz for an Afro-twist on the classic American story, The Wizard of Oz. The Wiz has blown back into town after forty years, and it’s groovier than ever. Catch this whirlwind of a show September 9th-21st at the Music Hall at Fair Park.

Get tickets here!

 

What is The Wiz?

The Wiz is an All-Black musical take on The Wizard of Oz that enraptured Broadway with its groundbreaking debut forty-nine years ago. In this retelling of the widely known 1939 film, Dorothy and her ragtag band of unlikely friends must make their way across the treacherous land of Oz to find the Wiz and fulfill their hearts’ desires while eluding the nasty witch, Evilene. The classic story is infused with a love for Black music history from gospel to rock to soul that pulls it into the world of the next generation. Famous songs like “Ease on Down the Road”, “He’s the Wizard” and “Don’t Nobody Bring Me No Bad News” pull from all over and come together to create a show full of tunes that will make you want to stand up and dance.

 

 

Lead Dana Cimone, Glinda actress Sheherazade, and Aunt Em/Evilene actress Kyla Jade make their national tour debuts, and they are accompanied by a seasoned cast including Alan Mingo Jr, returning to his role as the Wiz. This design team worked on many other famous and highly acclaimed Black projects such as scenic designer Hannah Beachler (Black Panther, Beyoncé’s Black is King and Lemonade), costume designer Sharen Davis (Ray, Dreamgirls), lighting designer Ryan J. O’Gara (Thoughts of a Colored Man), video and projection design by Daniel Brodie (Motown the Musical), wig design by Charles LaPointe (MJ the Musical) and make-up design by Kirk Cambridge-Del Pesche (The Piano Lesson). This all-star cast and crew have come together to create a spectacle like few others. 

 

 

Everyone, rejoice! Tickets are available for The Wiz now from September 9th through 21st at the Music Hall at Fair Park. Get yours now!

What?

The Wiz

When?

September 9th - 21st

Run time: 2 hours and 20 minutes, 1 intermission

Where?

The Music Hall at Fair Park

Tickets

Available here

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Santa’s grabbing his swimsuit this Labor Day weekend as he makes a special summer pit stop at Hilton Anatole’s JadeWaters Resort Pool Complex for the hotel’s annual Santa Cabana Weekend.

In celebration of the season’s end — and as a playful preview of the hotel’s beloved Christmas at the Anatole programming — guests can enjoy four days of festive fun with Santa and Mrs. Claus, holiday-themed treats, and family-friendly activities.

Here's What to Look Forward to?

This Labor Day weekend is just the beginning — Christmas at the Anatole returns this winter, bigger and better than ever. Expect over-the-top décor, immersive holiday attractions, and magical moments for the whole family.

WHAT: Labor Day Weekend Santa Cabana Celebration
Guests will enjoy holiday-themed fun at the resort's JadeWaters pool complex, including:

  • Santa & Mrs. Claus appearances
  • Holiday crafts and photo ops (giant polar bear included!)
  • Train rides
  • Foam parties
  • Themed food & beverage offerings like Christmas cookies and snow cones
  • Themed character breakfasts with the Hilton Anatole’s Tilly the Elephant and a holiday friend at Media Bar + Grill.

WHEN: Friday, August 29 – Monday, September 1, 2025
All events take place at JadeWaters unless otherwise noted.

Here's the schedule:

Friday, August 29

  • 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Santa & Mrs. Claus Appearances
  • 11:00 AM | Holiday Train Rides
  • 1:00 PM | Holiday Craft
  • 2:00 PM | Holiday Train Rides
  • 4:00 PM | Foam Party
  • 9:00 PM | Movie in the Park

Saturday, August 30

  • 9:30 – 10:30 AM | Character Breakfast with Tilly The Elephant & Holiday Friend at Media Bar + Grill
  • 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Santa & Mrs. Claus Appearances
  • 11:00 AM | Holiday Train Rides
  • 1:00 PM | Holiday Crafts
  • 2:00 PM | Holiday Train Rides
  • 4:00 PM | Foam Party
  • 9:00 PM | Movie in the Park

Sunday, August 31

  • 9:30 – 10:30 AM | Character Breakfast with Tilly The Elephant & Holiday Friend at Media Bar + Grill
  • 11:00 AM | Holiday Train Rides
  • 1:00 PM | Holiday Crafts
  • 2:00 PM | Holiday Train Rides
    4:00 PM | Foam Party
  • 9:00 PM | Movie in the Park

Monday, September 1

  • 9:30 – 10:30 AM | Character Breakfast with Tilly The Elephant & Holiday Friend at Media Bar + Grill
  • 11:00 AM | Holiday Train Rides
  • 1:00 PM | Foam Party

What to Know:

All festivities will be held at the Jade Waters Resort on the Hilton Anatole, and guests join the fun with a day pass via ResortPass or make it a staycation by booking a weekend getaway at Hilton Anatole and enjoying all the family-friendly amenities.

WHERE:

Hilton Anatole, 2201 N Stemmons Fwy, Dallas, TX

WHEN:

Friday, August 29 - Monday, September 1, 2025

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Theme: Rooted in Heritage, Growing Knowledge, Shaping the Future
Dates: June 23–24, 2025 | Extended Events: June 28, July 3 & July 4
Location: University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) & Online via Zoom

Arlington, TX – June 24, 2025 — The Asian Culture and Education Society USA (ACAESUSA) proudly concluded its 2025 Annual Conference at the University of Texas at Arlington—a vibrant, multi-day celebration of Asian American heritage, education, STEM advancement, and youth leadership.

Under the theme Rooted in Heritage, Growing Knowledge, Shaping the Future, the event brought together students, scholars, educators, artists, and families from across the nation. 

Beyond the main conference, ACAESUSA hosted extended programming: an art workshop on June 28, an SMU STEM lab tour on July 3, and spirited participation in the Park Cities July 4 Parade.

Four award categories recognized exceptional contributions:

Outstanding Youth Leadership Chair Award – Highest honor for exceptional leadership, initiative, and impact

Ian Song · Bryan Zhao · Adam Zhang · Julian Liu · Meihua Zhou, Zihan Huang ·Amy Wang 

Distinguished Youth Leadership Chair Award – For strong commitment and consistent leadership excellence
Zachary Huang ·Diana Chen · Jason Li · Sara Ye · Keira Yang · Ethan Wang · May Bai, Maddock Zhang

Youth Leadership Chair Award – Acknowledging service and dedication as appointed youth leaders

Christopher An · Park Shu · Ebony Chen · Anya Liu · Matthew Yang · Jake Jin · Yongchen Long · Melanie Bai · Samuel Li · Jonina Ouyang · Isabella Lou · Chenrui Mi · Yihan Cheng · Fiona Ye · Jodie Lin, Arthur Yang, Guanyan Li. 

Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award – Recognizing quiet yet powerful service to the community
Veera Panday · Amber Wang · Sophie Wang ·  Katelyn Hu · Austin Yao · Ethan Li · Howard Li · Qianhang Bao · Yutong Hua · Grace Wang · Hanyu · Junxi Xu · Hannah Yu Leng · Huiki Chen · Jefferson Chiu · Molly Li · Shenghe Du · Emily Wang · Amelia Peng · Cathrine Wu

Conference Highlights

 

  • STEM & Innovation Panels with experts including Dr. Shuchi Deb (Human-Machine Systems), Dr. Baohong Yuan (Biomedical Engineering), and Dr. Junzhou Huang (AI and Smart Systems).
  • AAPI Education & History led by Dr. Zhida Song-James, advocating for the inclusion of Asian American history in K–12 curricula.
  • Cultural Night Celebration featuring traditional Asian BBQ, hand-pulled noodles, and live performances such as Er Ren Zhuan dance.
  • World of Love Art Exhibition with the 2024–2025 theme Support Autism & Mental Health Students, praised by Mayor Ross for its vision and emotional impact.
  • SMU STEM Lab Tour hosted by Dr. Zhihao Wu and SMU faculty, offering students hands-on exposure to cutting-edge research.
  • 4th of July Parade Participation, where ACAESUSA members marched in unity despite the rain, earning community praise for cultural pride and resilience.
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Dallas-based company, Artifacture, announced the launch of its new product line, Treillage by Artifacture, a collection of architectural lattice panels designed for interior spaces. Treillage by Artifacture specializes in premium latticework, crafted to balance superior quality with accessibility. The line targets interior designers, remodelers, and other professionals working in upscale residential and commercial spaces.

Treillage by Artifacture was established in response to a growing demand for high-value latticework. Recognizing a gap in the market, Artifacture saw an opportunity to offer premium, cost-effective products with quick turnaround times. All products can currently be shipped anywhere within the continental United States. 

 “We created Treillage by Artifacture as a way to grow what we offer and explore new directions in design,” Co-founder Shane Selman said. “I’m looking forward to working with clients and seeing how these pieces can help bring their spaces to life.”

 Treillage by Artifacture currently offers three pattern selections: classic diamonds, classic squares, and classic mixed, which incorporates panels that blend diamond, square, and other geometric designs. While the initial offerings are limited, Artifacture also provides custom patterning as part of a concierge-style service. Clients can submit their elevations and plans, and the Artifacture team will collaborate to design, fabricate, and deliver custom-cut elements that ensure a polished look.

 All panels are single-layer and intended for interior use only. Standard full panels measure 48 by 96 inches, while borders and ornamental panels are available in a range of sizes tailored to project specifications. Professional installation is strongly recommended, as improper installation will void the product warranty. Installation guidelines can be found in Artifacture’s online catalog.

About Artifacture:

Artifacture is a custom fabrication studio with more than 15 years of experience delivering high-stakes, detail-driven projects for discerning professionals. Owned by partners Michael Reilley and Shane Selman, the Dallas-based company began as a love for making strange things and figuring out how to solve complex problems. Artifacture created Treillage by Artifacture to make proven, in-demand lattice products more accessible without sacrificing quality. Treillage by Artifacture offers interior designers, residential remodelers, and other professionals an opportunity to elevate the spaces they create. To learn more, visit latticebyartifacture.com.

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Allen native and descendant of pioneer families Kenneth (Ken) Ray Byler of Allen, Texas, passed away on July 17, 2025, at the age of 91.  A celebration of life is planned for Saturday, August 30th at 3 p.m. at the Allen Christian Church, located in Allen Heritage Village, 450 E. St. Mary Dr.

In 2024, the Collin County Historical Commission awarded the Living Legacy award to Ken.  His achievement as an individual citizen of Collin County who has significantly enriched cultural heritage through a lifetime of dedicated service to the ideals of preservation, education and respect of the county’s rich past was recognized. 

Ken was known in the community as a writer and historian with an unsurpassed knowledge of the City of Allen and Collin County. In 2015, he was selected by Texas State Representative Jodie Laubenberg, (District 89 in Collin County, Jan. 2003 - Jan. 2018), to be included in the Bob Bullock Museum of Texas History’s “The Texas Story Project” as a Collin County writer and storyteller.  Ken has written several novellas, magazine articles and essays on the Southwest and most recently he has written a weekly opinion column for several weekly newspapers including the Allen American. These stories are now all captured on The Portal to Texas History in the Allen American newspapers that have been placed there.

Artists without formal training, who learned from family, community, and personal journeys, have long been a presence in American art, and local artist Ken Byler was no exception. Ken Byler painted architectural structures, natural landscapes and nostalgic scenes of Texas and the Southwest. 

The son of Ray and Marzee Byler, Ken was raised on the Ingram farm--Cottonwood Bend--which had been in the family for three generations.  During the Depression, family members that lost their farms or jobs took refuge on the Ingram farm.  Ken described it “an island of comfort in a river of misery.  Ken was the only Allenite who could declare that both parents and grandparents could call Allen their home. 

Ken is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Klay and Tarsy Byler; his son, Keith Byler; his grandson and granddaughter-in-law, Ryan and Karla Byler; his granddaughter, Brooke Byler; and his great-grandchildren, Holly, Evelyn, Victor, Dallas, Ryder, and Brayson. He is also survived by his sisters, Betty Ann Byler and Judy Reyna, and his sister and brother-in-law, Karen and Bruce Anderson. He was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy; his daughter, Carol Byler; his sister, Shirley Kay Byler; his brother, Dave Byler; and his parents, Ray and Margie Byler.