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Frisco Mayor Jeff Cheney; President and CEO Grady Raskin; and Dallas Stars Chief Revenue Officer, Matt Bowman announce the name of the new professional women's volleyball debuting in January 2026.

MLV Dallas embarks on a bold new chapter as the team officially becomes Dallas Pulse, revealing its dynamic new logo and confirming Comerica Center in Frisco as its home court. The announcement marks an exciting milestone as North Texas’ first women’s professional volleyball team prepares to debut in the upcoming 2026 season. 

“North Texas is one of the most passionate and competitive volleyball markets in the country,” said Grady Raskin, President and CEO of Dallas Pulse. “Our name represents the heart of the city and the tempo of the game. We are bringing world-class volleyball to Dallas-Fort Worth – not only for the dedicated fans who already love the sport, but also for those who are about to experience just how thrilling and dynamic professional volleyball can be.”

Dallas-Fort Worth has long been a powerhouse for volleyball, producing elite athletes through nationally recognized club programs, championship high school teams and leading collegiate programs. Dallas Pulse brings to this thriving community and its fans and supporters a major league professional team to call their own. 

Dallas Pulse joins Major League Volleyball’s mission to elevate women’s sports and deliver a fast-paced, fan-first professional sports experience. According to Deloitte’s 2025 Women in Sport report, women’s professional leagues are projected to surpass $2 billion in global revenue by 2026 – spotlighting the rapid growth and investment momentum across the industry.  

Deposits for season ticket holders will be available on the Dallas Pulse website beginning October 16 for home games at Comerica Center in Frisco.  

The ownership group of Dallas Pulse features North Texas business leaders and entrepreneurs, including several women owners, united by a shared commitment to empowering female athletes and expanding opportunities in professional sports. 

Future announcements for Dallas Pulse include the 2026 season schedule and the date of the first collegiate draft for the team, which will bring additional top volleyball talent to North Texas. 

Dallas Pulse is North Texas’ first women’s professional volleyball team, competing in Major League Volleyball’s 2026 season. Based 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. For more information about MLV Dallas, visit DALLAS PULSE or follow the team on social media channels at dallaspulsevb.

Major League Volleyball, entering its third season, is the longest-running formal professional volleyball league for women in the United States. Designed to elevate the sport through world class competition, commercial innovation, and cultural relevance, MLV brings together elite athletes, visionary leadership, and global ambition. With alignment to USA Volleyball and a commitment to Olympic development, MLV serves as the premier pathway from professional play to the world stage. 

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Dr. Partha Mukherji, clinical assistant professor in comprehensive dentistry at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas, teaches dental students treatment fundamentals. However, his passion is advocating for the needs and interests of present and future general dentists.  

That dedication was saluted Sept. 12 in Austin as Mukherji and his longtime friend, Dr. Victor Rodriguez of Houston, owner of Clear Lake Dental Associates in Houston and an adjunct professor at UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry, were named co-recipients of 2025 Texas Dentist of the Year at Texas Academy Awards, Texas Academy of General Dentistry’s celebratory event. Each was honored for service to his community and the dental profession, commitment to continuing education, leadership and professional excellence.

Mukherji and Rodriguez were chosen from 13 nominees. Dr. Hanna Lindskog, Texas AGD president, praised them for dedication to patient care, mentorship and innovation. 

“Drs. Mukherji and Rodriguez motivate us all to reach higher and continue advancing the future of dentistry,” Lindskog shared in a written statement. 

Mukherji, a 2001 A&M Dental graduate, was nominated by Fort Worth Academy of General Dentistry, where he’s a past president and former secretary/treasurer of Texas AGD. He serves as Region 18 director of the Academy of General Dentistry, the national organization.  

Texas AGD focuses on general dentistry and has more than 2,900 members. Dentist of the Year award winners are both general dentists and specialists. 

“It’s inspiring being in the room with some of the best human beings in our profession,” Mukherji said. “These individuals are true servant leaders. I was just honored to be in the same room with them.”  

Mukherji, who grew up in Bay City, completed his residency in 2002 at what's now known as UTHealth Houston.

He taught part time at A&M Dental and served on Tarrant County College’s registered dental assistant advisory board for several years before joining A&M Dental’s faculty full time in April. Mukherji worked for six years at Harris Southwest Dental & Aesthetic Dental Innovations in Fort Worth, part of Heartland Dental. He also worked at Beyond Dental & Implant Center and M Dentistry, his own practice, both in Fort Worth. 

Mukherji’s charitable endeavors include volunteering with nonprofits Texas Mission of Mercy, a mobile dental clinic that travels the state and provides free dental care, and Mercy Clinic, a no-charge, faith-based dental clinic in Fort Worth. He also volunteers with Savea Smile, led by Cook Children’s in Fort Worth, where Mukherji provides dental screenings in schools.  

He serves on Texas Dental Association’s annual meeting council, where Mukherji will be vice chair for next year’s meeting in San Antonio. In addition, he’s deputy regent for District 15 (Texas) International College of Dentists. 

“Professionally, I find the biggest joy in service...,” Mukherji said. “I’m inspired by so many people who’ve been on my journey. From the platforms that I’ve been given, I want to ensure that others are empowered to have a voice. In some shape, form or fashion, we are all in this together.” 

Dr. Erica Teixeira, head of comprehensive dentistry at A&M Dental, called him an invaluable member of the academic community. She said the award is a testament to Mukherji’s commitment to excellence. 

“His leadership, professionalism and dedication have enriched our school and inspired colleagues and students,” Teixeira said. 

 

 

 

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Dr. Partha Mukherji, assistant professor in comprehensive dentistry at Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas, teaches dental students treatment fundamentals. However, his passion is advocating for the needs and interests of present and future general dentists.  

 

That dedication was saluted Sept. 12 in Austin as Mukherji and his longtime friend, Dr. Victor Rodriguez of Houston, owner of Clear Lake Dental Associates in Houston and an adjunct professor at UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry, were named co-recipients of 2025 Texas Dentist of the Year at Texas Academy Awards, Texas Academy of General Dentistry’s celebratory event. Each was honored for service to his community and the dental profession, commitment to continuing education, leadership and professional excellence.

Mukherji and Rodriguez were chosen from 13 nominees. Dr. Hanna Lindskog, Texas AGD president, praised them for dedication to patient care, mentorship and innovation. 

 

“Drs. Mukherji and Rodriguez motivate us all to reach higher and continue advancing the future of dentistry,” Lindskog shared in a written statement. 

 

Mukherji, a 2001 A&M Dental graduate, was nominated by Fort Worth Academy of General Dentistry, where he’s a past president and former secretary/treasurer of Texas AGD. He serves as Region 18 director of the Academy of General Dentistry, the national organization.  

 

Texas AGD focuses on general dentistry and has more than 2,900 members. Dentist of the Year award winners are both general dentists and specialists. 

 

“It’s inspiring being in the room with some of the best human beings in our profession,” Mukherji said. “These individuals are true servant leaders. I was just honored to be in the same room with them.”  

Mukherji, who grew up in Bay City, completed his residency in 2002 at what's now known as UTHealth Houston.

 

He taught part time at A&M Dental and served on Tarrant County College’s registered dental assistant advisory board for several years before joining A&M Dental’s faculty full time in April. Mukherji worked for six years at Harris Southwest Dental & Aesthetic Dental Innovations in Fort Worth, part of Heartland Dental. He also worked at Beyond Dental & Implant Center and M Dentistry, his own practice, both in Fort Worth. 

 

Mukherji’s charitable endeavors include volunteering with nonprofits Texas Mission of Mercy, a mobile dental clinic that travels the state and provides free dental care, and Mercy Clinic, a no-charge, faith-based dental clinic in Fort Worth. He also volunteers with Savea Smile, led by Cook Children’s in Fort Worth, where Mukherji provides dental screenings in schools.  

 

He serves on Texas Dental Association’s annual meeting council, where Mukherji will be vice chair for next year’s meeting in San Antonio. In addition, he’s deputy regent for District 15 (Texas) International College of Dentists. 

 

“Professionally, I find the biggest joy in service...,” Mukherji said. “I’m inspired by so many people who’ve been on my journey. From the platforms that I’ve been given, I want to ensure that others are empowered to have a voice. In some shape, form or fashion, we are all in this together.” 

 

Dr. Erica Teixeira, head of comprehensive dentistry at A&M Dental, called him an invaluable member of the academic community. She said the award is a testament to Mukherji’s commitment to excellence. 

 

“His leadership, professionalism and dedication have enriched our school and inspired colleagues and students,” Teixeira said. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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October 20-24, 100% donation of Cheesecake Chimi profits benefit programs to provide support

Taco Bueno is turning a sweet treat into something even sweeter with its upcoming “Chimis for Change” campaign in support of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October. From October 20 through 24, 100% of profits from the brand’s Cheesecake Chimis will be donated to support survivors of domestic violence in Texas and Oklahoma.

Guests can enjoy the dessert with two limited-time sauces — Chocolate and Raspberry — making it a delicious way to support an excellent cause.

This giveback effort is part of Tacos with a Purpose, Taco Bueno’s ongoing campaign to raise awareness and provide meaningful support for survivors. Since launching last year, the program has raised $560,329 to benefit two nonprofit partners: The Family Place in Texas and Palomar in Oklahoma. Together, these organizations provide essential services including emergency shelter, counseling, legal aid, and life skills programs that empower survivors and help families rebuild their lives.

Non-profit Partners Making Change

"We’re incredibly thankful to Taco Bueno for their generous support raised through the round-up initiative," said Tiffany Tate, CEO of The Family Place. "When companies stand alongside survivors in this way, it sends a clear and powerful message: you are seen, you are valued and you are never alone. We're proud to call Taco Bueno a partner in this life-changing work, and we hope their example encourages more businesses to step forward and help create safer, more compassionate communities for all." 

Raising Awareness for a Critical Cause

One in three women and one in four men in the U.S. experience domestic violence in their lifetime. Taco Bueno’s Tacos with a Purpose initiative shines a spotlight on this issue during National Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October and reminds survivors that they are not alone.

Taco Bueno encourages guests to visit participating locations October 20-24 to take part in the Chimis for Change campaign and help make a difference in the lives of survivors.

About Taco Bueno

Taco Bueno is committed to providing an authentic, better-tasting Tex-Mex experience through made-fresh-daily preparations, hand-selected ingredients and genuine friendly hospitality. Founded in 1967 in Abilene, Texas, Taco Bueno is a privately held company that operates nearly 140 restaurants throughout the American South and Southwest – including Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas.

 

Patricia Chi
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The Coppell Cowboys and Cowgirls competed in the District Meet on Friday at North Lakes Park in Denton, leaving everything on the course against one of the toughest districts in Texas. Both squads ran with determination and heart, and while team qualification proved just out of reach, Coppell runners delivered personal bests and standout performances that capped an impressive season.

Cowgirls Highlights

The Varsity Girls’ team ran courageously, with five of seven runners posting personal records. Senior leader Maya Easterwood ran one of the finest races of her career, finishing 2nd overall with a PR — the fastest 5K time ever recorded by a Coppell athlete. “Maya executed her race plan perfectly,” said Coach Wren. “We were hoping she could challenge for first, but that was still a phenomenal performance.” She will advance to the Regional Meet in Lubbock on October 21.

The JV Girls also ended their season on a strong note, with Charlotte Baade leading the way and running the 7th fastest Coppell girls’ time on the course. Solid efforts from Vanini Agarwal, Shrriya Bedse, Bess Williams, and Hannah Stumm highlighted the depth and improvement across the girls’ program this season.

Cowboys Highlights

The Varsity Boys ran a competitive race that gave them a chance to qualify, but fell just short against top district opponents. Still, two standout athletes — Diego Morales and Sidharth Kerthipati — earned individual qualifications to Regionals, each running personal bests.

Coach Wren praised their effort: “Both Diego and Sid have continued to improve as the season has gone on. I’m excited to keep training them and see how they compete in Lubbock.”

The JV Boys’ squad turned in the best finish of the day, placing multiple runners in the top group and showing the future is bright. Standouts included Rodrigo Abrego, Jose Murillo, Marco Noyola, Srivanth Rudrangi, Vihaan Sahni, Abishek Suresh, Rigved Nehere, and Allan Ramirez. Many recorded personal or near-personal bests, demonstrating the depth Coppell has moving forward.

Coach’s Perspective

Coach Wren reflected on the District results:
“Sometimes you can do everything you’re capable of and still get beat. That’s what happened today for both our boys and girls. But I couldn’t be prouder of how they competed. We had so many PRs, and we proved that our athletes are learning how to run tough races.”

He also noted the scale of improvement: 19 out of 27 Coppell girls ran season bests, while 24 out of 45 Coppell boys ran season bests at District.

Looking Ahead

Coppell will now turn its attention to the Regional Meet in Lubbock on October 21, where Maya Easterwood, Diego Morales, and Sidharth Kerthipati will represent the Cowboys and Cowgirls. For the rest of the team, the season will officially conclude at the Nike South Invitational in College Station on November 24.

Until next time, Coppell Cross Country will keep pushing forward!

Photo credit: Adrian Holguin

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

Patricia Chi
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The Coppell Cowboys and Cowgirls competed in the District Meet on Friday at North Lakes Park in Denton, leaving everything on the course against one of the toughest districts in Texas. Both squads ran with determination and heart, and while team qualification proved just out of reach, Coppell runners delivered personal bests and standout performances that capped an impressive season.

Cowgirls Highlights

The Varsity Girls’ team ran courageously, with five of seven runners posting personal records. Senior leader Maya Easterwood ran one of the finest races of her career, finishing 2nd overall with a PR — the fastest 5K time ever recorded by a Coppell athlete. “Maya executed her race plan perfectly,” said Coach Wren. “We were hoping she could challenge for first, but that was still a phenomenal performance.” She will advance to the Regional Meet in Lubbock on October 21.

The JV Girls also ended their season on a strong note, with Charlotte Baade leading the way and running the 7th fastest Coppell girls’ time on the course. Solid efforts from Vanini Agarwal, Shrriya Bedse, Bess Williams, and Hannah Stumm highlighted the depth and improvement across the girls’ program this season.

Cowboys Highlights

The Varsity Boys ran a competitive race that gave them a chance to qualify, but fell just short against top district opponents. Still, two standout athletes — Diego Morales and Sidharth Kerthipati — earned individual qualifications to Regionals, each running personal bests.

Coach Wren praised their effort: “Both Diego and Sid have continued to improve as the season has gone on. I’m excited to keep training them and see how they compete in Lubbock.”

The JV Boys’ squad turned in the best finish of the day, placing multiple runners in the top group and showing the future is bright. Standouts included Rodrigo Abrego, Jose Murillo, Marco Noyola, Srivanth Rudrangi, Vihaan Sahni, Abishek Suresh, Rigved Nehere, and Allan Ramirez. Many recorded personal or near-personal bests, demonstrating the depth Coppell has moving forward.

Coach’s Perspective

Coach Wren reflected on the District results:
“Sometimes you can do everything you’re capable of and still get beat. That’s what happened today for both our boys and girls. But I couldn’t be prouder of how they competed. We had so many PRs, and we proved that our athletes are learning how to run tough races.”

He also noted the scale of improvement: 19 out of 27 Coppell girls ran season bests, while 24 out of 45 Coppell boys ran season bests at District.

Looking Ahead

Coppell will now turn its attention to the Regional Meet in Lubbock on October 21, where Maya Easterwood, Diego Morales, and Sidharth Kerthipati will represent the Cowboys and Cowgirls. For the rest of the team, the season will officially conclude at the Nike South Invitational in College Station on November 24.

Until next time, Coppell Cross Country will keep pushing forward!

Photo credit: Adrian Holguin

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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Shelton School invites families to our Fall Admission Event on Saturday, October 18, from 3 to 4 p.m. Parents of children ages 2–5 will have the opportunity to learn more about Shelton’s Preschool and Kindergarten programs while young children enjoy fun, fall-themed activities.

Shelton’s Early Childhood programs emphasize oral language development, academic readiness, multisensory learning, enrichment classes and speech and language therapy. With small class sizes and highly trained faculty, Shelton builds a strong foundation for reading, learning and confidence.

Space is limited, and registration is required.

Learn more at shelton.org or call 972-774-1772.

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Folds of Honor North Texas 2025 Gala

Join Folds of Honor North Texas for its most important night of the year. On Saturday, November 15th, on the field at AT&T Stadium, Folds of Honor North Texas will host its 2025 Gala. The gala brings together first responders, military families, veterans, scholarship recipients, and members of the North Texas community. 

Funds raised at the gala will provide educational scholarships for the families of our nation’s heroes. Join Folds of Honor North Texas in supporting the loved ones of those who have sacrificed to protect our freedoms.

Sponsorship opportunities include: 

Commander in Chief Sponsor for $250,000

General Sponsor for $100,000

Colonel Sponsor for $50,000

Major Sponsor for $25,000

Captain Sponsor for $17,000

Freedom Sponsor for $11,000

Liberty Sponsor for $5,500

To learn more, please visit https://my.onecause.com/event/organizations/f84fc95f-f2d0-434e-82ca-efc094ef9be0/events/vevt:3909fdb6-7c7b-4d87-b5c1-fe4b8ad83661/home/story.

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Sunniefest Hello Sunshine

Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine is launching Sunniefest, an exclusive festival created for Gen Z girls aged 13-18. The event provides middle and high school girls with a space to connect, build friendships, and discover community.

Attendees can expect inspiring panels, special guests, interactive workshops, creative labs, and confidence-building sessions. Spotlight Sessions will feature Gen Z’s top voices, while Sunnie Surprises bring fun giveaways, foodie finds, and brand moments throughout the day.

Stars including Kiernan Shipka, Raegan Revord, Chandler Kinney, Lexi Minetree, and more will take the Sunniefest stage throughout the day.

Sunniefest is presented by e.l.f. Cosmetics and Skin, IF/THEN® an initiative of Lyda Hill Philanthropies, Purdue University, and Coach.

Sunniefest will take place on Saturday, November 15, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Pegasus Park, located at 3000 Pegasus Park Drive, Dallas, TX 75247.  

Purchase your tickets for Sunniefest here. 

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Photo courtesy of Park Place Dealerships Photographed left to right: Kurt Fegraeus, Park Place Volvo’s NEW General Manager Amber Slayton, Dallas Arboretum Chief Operating Officer Robert Hinkle, Place Place Motorscars Dallas General Manager Tobie Smith, Dallas Arboretum Chief Advancement Officer Patrick Houston, Park Place Porsche General Manager

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden Celebrates 20 Years of the City’s Premier Autumn Experience Through November 2

Park Place Dealerships Serves as the Official Automotive Sponsor of Autumn at the Arboretum

 

The 20th annual Autumn at the Arboretum is in full swing, featuring more than 100,000 pumpkins, gourds and squashes that transport guests to a fall wonderland. Park Place Dealerships, the official automotive sponsor, is helping bring this highly anticipated annual event to life.

Running through November 2, Autumn at the Arboretum welcomes guests from across Texas to experience breathtaking fall scenes featuring pumpkins from Floydada – known as the Pumpkin Capital of Texas. As guests stroll the walkways, they will encounter more than 150,000 vibrant, fall-blooming plants, creating a sensational seasonal display.

This year’s special feature, ¡Mundo México!, celebrates the beauty and richness of Mexican culture. The exhibit showcases contemporary art, harvest traditions, and iconic sculptures by world-renowned Oaxacan artists Jacobo and María Ángeles.

“There’s no better way to celebrate new beginnings than by spending a beautiful fall day at the Dallas Arboretum,” said Kara Connor, Community Engagement Manager at Park Place Dealerships. “Park Place is honored to once again support Autumn at the Arboretum, bringing families and friends together to experience the beauty of the fall season and enjoy the creative and colorful ¡Mundo México! exhibit.”

As the Dallas Arboretum welcomes a new season, Park Place Dealerships also celebrates new beginnings with the addition of Kurt Fegraeus, the new General Manager at Park Place Volvo.

Joining the team in September 2025, Fegraeus brings more than 30 years of automotive industry experience, and a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the Park Place Volvo team. Outside of work, Kurt is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys tennis, hunting, and fishing. 

Park Place Dealerships, founded in 1987, has long supported the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy, and education. Today, the company employs more than 1,400 Members across eight luxury automotive dealerships in North Texas, representing Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo, Acura, and Land Rover. Park Place BodyWerks Collision Centers in Fort Worth and Dallas, and the Park Place Auto Auction, round out the company’s offerings. For more information, visit parkplace.com.