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Kids Feeding Kids: As part of its 50th anniversary, the Shelton School is hosting the Feed My Starving Children MobilePack September 5-7.

As part of Shelton’s 50th anniversary celebrations, the school — the largest independent school worldwide for intelligent children with learning differences — will host the Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) MobilePack on September 5–7. This traveling event, organized by the nonprofit that provides nutritionally complete meals to children worldwide, will bring together more than 4,900 volunteers in shifts to pack more than 750,000 single-serving meals specially formulated to fight malnutrition and delivered to children in greatest need.

On Friday, September 5, Shelton staff and fifth- through twelfth-grade students will pack meals in the Main Gym. Third- and fourth-grade students may participate if accompanied by a parent volunteer.

On Saturday and Sunday, September 6–7, the MobilePack opens to the wider community. You are invited to volunteer for weekend shifts and to help recruit friends, neighbors and groups such as book clubs, scout troops, sports teams, faith group and teens seeking service hours. The event will take place indoors with air conditioning and music. It’s a wonderful opportunity for service, teamwork and fun.

Together, Shelton students, families and community members will turn hunger into hope — packing life-saving meals and celebrating 50 years of learning without limits through service.

Sign up for a weekend shift and share the link with your family and friends. Let’s fill every shift and make a global and local impact!

 

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Taylor Davis, St. Andrew Methodist Church Taylor Davis is no stranger to big ideas—he’s led ambitious musical programming at St. Andrew for years—but this piece is quite impactful: in June 2026, the Chancel Choir will perform The Poetry of Psalms at Carnegie Hall. This upcoming Plano performance is the community’s first—and possibly only—chance to hear the work live before it reaches a national stage.

Composed by Taylor Davis, the piece was commissioned by the Texas Master Chorale for their 40th anniversary and premiered in May, closing out their season

 

St. Andrew Methodist Church’s Chancel Choir along with a professional orchestra will present The Poetry of Psalms, an original 40-minute work by composer Taylor Davis that weaves together Biblical psalms and secular poetry in a powerful musical conversation. The free concert will take place on Sunday, Oct. 19, 3-4 p.m., in the sanctuary of St. Andrew, at 5801 W. Plano, Parkway.

Commissioned by the Texas Master Chorale (TMC) to celebrate their 40th anniversary, the piece received its world premiere in May with TMC and now comes to St. Andrew with Davis conducting and a professional orchestra drawn from across the DFW metroplex.

“When TMC asked me to commission this work, I came up with this idea because I find many of the psalms quite poetic, and I thought pairing a few of them with some of my favorite poems would be unique,” said Taylor Davis, creative director of traditional worship and music at St. Andrew. “The psalms are poetic at heart, but I did not want to just present 45 minutes of sacred text. I wanted to bring in a modern voice – something secular but still spiritual, something that might enhance the psalms.”

The 40-minute piece consists of a series of musical pairings – each one matching a psalm with a poem.

“Almost in a call and response way, the texts volley back and forth,” said Davis. “For example, the Scottish poem As the Rain Hides the Stars paints a picture of trusting what we cannot see, and it’s complemented by Psalm 8, describing creation with the sun, moon, and stars of night. This is perhaps one of my favorite pairings: the poem sounds like you’re watching fireflies after a summer storm, and the psalm about creation is like a confetti cannon!”

“In another pairing example, Emily Dickinson’s Will There Really Be a Morning? is answered when Psalm 113 declares from the rising of the sun to the going down of the same, the Lord’s name is to be praised,” he continued. “Each pairing lasts about four minutes with ten total movements inviting the listener on a journey through doubt, wonder, praise, and gratitude.”

“The psalms can feel sepia-toned—beautiful, but distant,” said Davis. “I wanted to add a little technicolor, and these poems do that. They help us see that sacredness isn’t locked away in old texts. It’s all around us—in everyday language, in the natural world, and in the questions we all carry.”

This concert is part of a broader effort by St. Andrew to offer meaningful, artistically excellent programming for the wider community. From classical music lovers to curious first-time concertgoers, The Poetry of Psalms aims to be both accessible and profound.

“At St. Andrew, we’re committed to creating one-of-a-kind opportunities for people to experience beauty and transcendence through music,” said Davis. “Concerts like this offer exceptional music people can't find outside the Dallas Arts District.”

More than just a concert, The Poetry of Psalms is the centerpiece of St. Andrew’s fall music programming – designed to connect with younger audiences, particularly high school and college music students in the DFW area. It also sets the stage for the Chancel Choir to take the concert to Carnegie Hall for an appearance in June 2026.

“St. Andrew’s Music Ministry offerings go beyond performance – they invite listeners into spiritual depth, communal reflection, and musical experiences that are transforming,” added Davis. “Through creative programming and outreach, we aim to connect people of all ages with the church through art. Join us on Sept. 28 for a transcendent musical experience – where sacred meets secular and tradition meets innovation.”

 

# # #

St. Andrew Methodist Church, founded in 1986, is located on 21.2 acres in Plano, Texas, and has more than 7,000 members. The church hosts over 2,000 people each weekend for worship services in both a traditional style with the classic pipe organ and a contemporary style with an LED center screen and lighting technology. St. Andrew extends an open invitation for all to be a part of a community ready to embrace faith in Christ that is real, practical, and life changing. Many opportunities are provided to gather on campus and serve locally, regionally, and globally. Through Invite Ministries, St. Andrew’s publishing house, and Beacon of Light, a mental health ministry, St. Andrew offers innovative ways to reach Christians within its congregation and out in the community. The new 300-seat Hasley Chapel provides worship and other gathering opportunities in a scenic and more intimate setting. In 2022 St. Andrew became an independent Methodist Church seeking to live more like Jesus every day and to learn in deeper ways what it means to follow His teachings, live in community, and serve the world. 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewmethodist.org; call (972)380-8001.

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Taylor Davis, St. Andrew Methodist Church Taylor Davis is no stranger to big ideas—he’s led ambitious musical programming at St. Andrew for years—but this piece is quite impactful: in June 2026, the Chancel Choir will perform The Poetry of Psalms at Carnegie Hall. This upcoming Plano performance is the community’s first—and possibly only—chance to hear the work live before it reaches a national stage.

Composed by Taylor Davis, the piece was commissioned by the Texas Master Chorale for their 40th anniversary and premiered in May, closing out their season

 

St. Andrew Methodist Church’s Chancel Choir along with a professional orchestra will present The Poetry of Psalms, an original 40-minute work by composer Taylor Davis that weaves together Biblical psalms and secular poetry in a powerful musical conversation. The free concert will take place on Sunday, Oct. 19, 3-4 p.m., in the sanctuary of St. Andrew, at 5801 W. Plano, Parkway.

Commissioned by the Texas Master Chorale (TMC) to celebrate their 40th anniversary, the piece received its world premiere in May with TMC and now comes to St. Andrew with Davis conducting and a professional orchestra drawn from across the DFW metroplex.

“When TMC asked me to commission this work, I came up with this idea because I find many of the psalms quite poetic, and I thought pairing a few of them with some of my favorite poems would be unique,” said Taylor Davis, creative director of traditional worship and music at St. Andrew. “The psalms are poetic at heart, but I did not want to just present 45 minutes of sacred text. I wanted to bring in a modern voice – something secular but still spiritual, something that might enhance the psalms.”

The 40-minute piece consists of a series of musical pairings – each one matching a psalm with a poem.

“Almost in a call and response way, the texts volley back and forth,” said Davis. “For example, the Scottish poem As the Rain Hides the Stars paints a picture of trusting what we cannot see, and it’s complemented by Psalm 8, describing creation with the sun, moon, and stars of night. This is perhaps one of my favorite pairings: the poem sounds like you’re watching fireflies after a summer storm, and the psalm about creation is like a confetti cannon!”

“In another pairing example, Emily Dickinson’s Will There Really Be a Morning? is answered when Psalm 113 declares from the rising of the sun to the going down of the same, the Lord’s name is to be praised,” he continued. “Each pairing lasts about four minutes with ten total movements inviting the listener on a journey through doubt, wonder, praise, and gratitude.”

“The psalms can feel sepia-toned—beautiful, but distant,” said Davis. “I wanted to add a little technicolor, and these poems do that. They help us see that sacredness isn’t locked away in old texts. It’s all around us—in everyday language, in the natural world, and in the questions we all carry.”

This concert is part of a broader effort by St. Andrew to offer meaningful, artistically excellent programming for the wider community. From classical music lovers to curious first-time concertgoers, The Poetry of Psalms aims to be both accessible and profound.

“At St. Andrew, we’re committed to creating one-of-a-kind opportunities for people to experience beauty and transcendence through music,” said Davis. “Concerts like this offer exceptional music people can't find outside the Dallas Arts District.”

More than just a concert, The Poetry of Psalms is the centerpiece of St. Andrew’s fall music programming – designed to connect with younger audiences, particularly high school and college music students in the DFW area. It also sets the stage for the Chancel Choir to take the concert to Carnegie Hall for an appearance in June 2026.

“St. Andrew’s Music Ministry offerings go beyond performance – they invite listeners into spiritual depth, communal reflection, and musical experiences that are transforming,” added Davis. “Through creative programming and outreach, we aim to connect people of all ages with the church through art. Join us on Sept. 28 for a transcendent musical experience – where sacred meets secular and tradition meets innovation.”

 

# # #

St. Andrew Methodist Church, founded in 1986, is located on 21.2 acres in Plano, Texas, and has more than 7,000 members. The church hosts over 2,000 people each weekend for worship services in both a traditional style with the classic pipe organ and a contemporary style with an LED center screen and lighting technology. St. Andrew extends an open invitation for all to be a part of a community ready to embrace faith in Christ that is real, practical, and life changing. Many opportunities are provided to gather on campus and serve locally, regionally, and globally. Through Invite Ministries, St. Andrew’s publishing house, and Beacon of Light, a mental health ministry, St. Andrew offers innovative ways to reach Christians within its congregation and out in the community. The new 300-seat Hasley Chapel provides worship and other gathering opportunities in a scenic and more intimate setting. In 2022 St. Andrew became an independent Methodist Church seeking to live more like Jesus every day and to learn in deeper ways what it means to follow His teachings, live in community, and serve the world. 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewmethodist.org; call (972)380-8001.

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Taylor Davis, St. Andrew Methodist Church Taylor Davis is no stranger to big ideas—he’s led ambitious musical programming at St. Andrew for years—but this piece is quite impactful: in June 2026, the Chancel Choir will perform The Poetry of Psalms at Carnegie Hall. This upcoming Plano performance is the community’s first—and possibly only—chance to hear the work live before it reaches a national stage.

Composed by Taylor Davis, the piece was commissioned by the Texas Master Chorale for their 40th anniversary and premiered in May, closing out their season

 

St. Andrew Methodist Church’s Chancel Choir along with a professional orchestra will present The Poetry of Psalms, an original 40-minute work by composer Taylor Davis that weaves together Biblical psalms and secular poetry in a powerful musical conversation. The free concert will take place on Sunday, Oct. 19, 3-4 p.m., in the sanctuary of St. Andrew, at 5801 W. Plano, Parkway.

Commissioned by the Texas Master Chorale (TMC) to celebrate their 40th anniversary, the piece received its world premiere in May with TMC and now comes to St. Andrew with Davis conducting and a professional orchestra drawn from across the DFW metroplex.

“When TMC asked me to commission this work, I came up with this idea because I find many of the psalms quite poetic, and I thought pairing a few of them with some of my favorite poems would be unique,” said Taylor Davis, creative director of traditional worship and music at St. Andrew. “The psalms are poetic at heart, but I did not want to just present 45 minutes of sacred text. I wanted to bring in a modern voice – something secular but still spiritual, something that might enhance the psalms.”

The 40-minute piece consists of a series of musical pairings – each one matching a psalm with a poem.

“Almost in a call and response way, the texts volley back and forth,” said Davis. “For example, the Scottish poem As the Rain Hides the Stars paints a picture of trusting what we cannot see, and it’s complemented by Psalm 8, describing creation with the sun, moon, and stars of night. This is perhaps one of my favorite pairings: the poem sounds like you’re watching fireflies after a summer storm, and the psalm about creation is like a confetti cannon!”

“In another pairing example, Emily Dickinson’s Will There Really Be a Morning? is answered when Psalm 113 declares from the rising of the sun to the going down of the same, the Lord’s name is to be praised,” he continued. “Each pairing lasts about four minutes with ten total movements inviting the listener on a journey through doubt, wonder, praise, and gratitude.”

“The psalms can feel sepia-toned—beautiful, but distant,” said Davis. “I wanted to add a little technicolor, and these poems do that. They help us see that sacredness isn’t locked away in old texts. It’s all around us—in everyday language, in the natural world, and in the questions we all carry.”

This concert is part of a broader effort by St. Andrew to offer meaningful, artistically excellent programming for the wider community. From classical music lovers to curious first-time concertgoers, The Poetry of Psalms aims to be both accessible and profound.

“At St. Andrew, we’re committed to creating one-of-a-kind opportunities for people to experience beauty and transcendence through music,” said Davis. “Concerts like this offer exceptional music people can't find outside the Dallas Arts District.”

More than just a concert, The Poetry of Psalms is the centerpiece of St. Andrew’s fall music programming – designed to connect with younger audiences, particularly high school and college music students in the DFW area. It also sets the stage for the Chancel Choir to take the concert to Carnegie Hall for an appearance in June 2026.

“St. Andrew’s Music Ministry offerings go beyond performance – they invite listeners into spiritual depth, communal reflection, and musical experiences that are transforming,” added Davis. “Through creative programming and outreach, we aim to connect people of all ages with the church through art. Join us on Sept. 28 for a transcendent musical experience – where sacred meets secular and tradition meets innovation.”

 

# # #

St. Andrew Methodist Church, founded in 1986, is located on 21.2 acres in Plano, Texas, and has more than 7,000 members. The church hosts over 2,000 people each weekend for worship services in both a traditional style with the classic pipe organ and a contemporary style with an LED center screen and lighting technology. St. Andrew extends an open invitation for all to be a part of a community ready to embrace faith in Christ that is real, practical, and life changing. Many opportunities are provided to gather on campus and serve locally, regionally, and globally. Through Invite Ministries, St. Andrew’s publishing house, and Beacon of Light, a mental health ministry, St. Andrew offers innovative ways to reach Christians within its congregation and out in the community. The new 300-seat Hasley Chapel provides worship and other gathering opportunities in a scenic and more intimate setting. In 2022 St. Andrew became an independent Methodist Church seeking to live more like Jesus every day and to learn in deeper ways what it means to follow His teachings, live in community, and serve the world. 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewmethodist.org; call (972)380-8001.

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Equest 45th Annual Blue Ribbon Gala - Tamytha Cam Photo Credit: Tamytha Cameron

It’s time to stirrup some glitz, glam, and giving! Equest is excited to announce its 45th Annual Blue Ribbon Gala, themed “Run for the Roses,” to be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 6:00 to 11:00 p.m. at Gilley’s Dallas. Inspired by the timeless elegance and excitement of the Kentucky Derby, the annual Gala promises a high-spirited mix of Southern hospitality, sophisticated style, and down-home fun, all in support of Equest’s mission to change lives through the human-horse connection.

Gala Chairs Melinda and Mark Knowles, distinguished Dallas philanthropists and community leaders, will lead the charge for this milestone event, joined by Honorary Chair Lynn McBee,whose civic leadership and tireless advocacy have shaped the philanthropic landscape of Dallas.Guests will enjoy a dazzling lineup of experiences includinga gourmet seated dinner with signature cocktails, thrilling live and silent auctions, a prestigious awards presentation, and an electrifying performance from Jordan Kahn’s Manhattan Orchestra to two-step the night away. Don your finest Texas-chic attire—cowboy boots welcome!

Two distinguished awards will be presented at this year’s Gala to honor extraordinary individuals who embody the spirit and mission of Equest. The Founders Award, established in honor of co-founder Susan Neustadt Schwartz, recognizes individuals with lifelong dedication to Equest’s mission of improving lives through equine assisted services. The 2026 award will be presented to Leslie and Hawkins Golden in recognition of their outstanding commitment and support. The Citation Award, named after the legendary American Thoroughbred winner of the same name, celebrates a champion within Equest who demonstrates the same spirit of excellence. The 2026 recipient of this honor is Carol Huckin.

Returning to lend their signature sparkle, celebrity event designer Steve Kemble will once again create a show-stopping experience, while Calvert Collins-Bratton reprises her role as emcee,guiding guests through the evening’s festivities. A legendary team of committee chairs will ensure the Gala’s legacy of excellence and impact, including Bonner Allen (Reservations), Maggie Cooke Kipp and Nancy Gopez (Auction), Nancy Carlson, Alison Malone and Stacey Walker (Underwriting), and Amy Turner (Patron Party Chair).

The Equest Blue Ribbon Gala’s theme, “Run for the Roses,” nods to the Kentucky Derby’s iconic tradition of crowning its champion horse with a lush garland of over 400 red roses, a symbol of victory, heart, and resilience. These values reflect the essence of Equest’s work: helping individuals with diverse needs achieve personal triumphs through the transformative power of horses.

“As we celebrate 45 years of Equest, we’re not just looking back—we’re galloping forward,” said Eric Lindh, CEO of Equest. “Our therapy horses are the heart of what we do, while it’s the people—our supporters, volunteers, and community—who make the impact possible. The Blue Ribbon Gala is our favorite night of the year to celebrate that joy, generosity, and impact, all under one roof.”

The Equest Annual Blue Ribbon Gala will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at Gilley’s Dallas (1135 Botham Jean Blvd., Dallas, TX 75215). Tables of ten start at $5,000, and sponsorships are also available. Underwriting opportunities are available at various levels starting at $5,000 as a category sponsor. Individual tickets will be released closer to the date. For more information and to purchase tables, please visit www.equest.org/gala or contact Angela Escamilla at gala@equest.org or (972) 412-1099 ext. 209.

 

 

 

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Are you a local fan group, cosplay club, theater/symphony, dance troupe, or community institution? Then the FAN EXPO Community Zone is the place for you! Participants in this space must support the local community in some way and be committed to making FAN EXPO a fantastic experience for attendees, guests, and fellow Community Zone participants.

Space is limited, so please be as detailed in your application as possible. Applications for the Irving Convention Center event are available here:

Things to know before you apply:

  • Applications are open
  • Applying does not guarantee space until confirmation is issued.
  • Booths must be appropriate for fans of all ages. Any booth activities are subject to management approval.
  • Participants must be available for load-in, all three days of the convention (from open to close), and load-out.
  • A standard booth is 10x10. Additional space or nonstandard booth requests are subject to management approval and are not guaranteed, even if the Group/Organization is accepted.
  • Power may be requested but is not guaranteed in community spaces.
  • Space is limited. Applicants who engage with other programmatic features or offer unique engagement opportunities are prioritized. Community members are encouraged to host a panel(s).

Dallas FAN FESTIVAL is this Fall’s premier pop culture celebration, offering the ultimate playground for fans of comics, sci-fi, horror, anime, and gaming. This year’s festival highlights nostalgia-driven celebrity guests and experiences that let fans revisit the stories, shows, and characters they grew up with while introducing new generations to timeless favorites. With family-friendly programming, cosplay contests, and budget-conscious ticket options, the event is designed to bring together fans of all ages for an immersive and affordable weekend of fun. Whether you’re reconnecting with your childhood heroes or making new memories with loved ones, Dallas FAN FESTIVAL celebrates the vibrant pop culture community thriving in North Texas and beyond. You’ll feel out of this world—and right at home.

 

 

Tickets ON SALE NOW:

Weekend Passes: $39 ADVANCE (Regular $49)

Adult Single Day Passes (13+): Saturday $25 ADVANCE and Sunday $20 ADVANCE

Child Passes (6-12): $10

Family Passes: Saturday $60 ADVANCE and Sunday $50 ADVANCE

 

DETAILS: Dallas FAN FESTIVAL runs Saturday, October 4, and Sunday, October 5, 2025

Saturday, October 4, from 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.

Sunday, October 5, from 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

The Irving Convention Center is located at 500 W Las Colinas Blvd., Irving, TX 75039

 

ABOUT FAN EXPO HQ:

With over a million fans and counting, FAN EXPO HQ attracts pop culture enthusiasts, locally and internationally, to come together to celebrate all things fandom. Collectively, it hosts nearly one million fans annually at FAN EXPO Dallas™, MEGACON Orlando, FAN EXPO Canada™, FAN EXPO Boston™, FAN EXPO Denver, FAN EXPO San Francisco, CALGARY EXPO, FAN EXPO Chicago, FAN EXPO Philadelphia, FAN EXPO Portland, FAN EXPO New Orleans, FAN EXPO Cleveland, FAN EXPO Vancouver™, Toronto Comicon, Dallas FAN FESTIVAL, VidCon and EDMONTON EXPO.  The latest schedule of events is available here on their website, along with up-to-date ticket information.

Kathy Beazley
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©2025 Courtesy of Social House Holidays, LLC

The countdown to holiday magic begins!! Coca-Cola’s Classic Christmas, the wildly popular immersive holiday light and adventure experience, is returning to Dallas this November—this time with a brand-new Alpine Adventure theme AND an all-new location. Presented by Coca-Cola and produced by Social House Entertainment, Classic Christmas will transport guests to Santa and Mrs. Claus’s cozy mountain hideaway, where holiday traditions meet dazzling new surprises. (Even Santa needs a ski vacation!)

Classic Christmas lights up Dallas Midtown, formerly known as Valley View Mall off LBJ Freeway and Montfort Rd., from November 21 through December 28, 2025. With over 90,000 square feet of immersive magic, the event promises millions of twinkling lights, falling snow, thrilling snow slides, outdoor ice skating, themed treats, and unforgettable visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Tickets go on sale to the public September 9. Early access is now open for holiday party reservations and group ticket packages of 26+. Learn more at ClassicChristmas.com.

“The response from families last year was nothing short of magical,” said Jayson Babel, Senior Vice President of Social House Holidays, the holiday division of Social House Entertainment. “This year, we’ve dialed up the whimsy, the interactivity, and the nostalgia. From expanded snow slides to the return of our movie screenings, Coca-Cola’s Classic Christmas is where new memories are made.”

The experience delivers holiday joy for all ages with a nostalgic twist and plenty of new surprises, including:

  • Larger-Than-Life Light Display: Explore 90,000 square feet of dazzling sculptures and immersive scenes designed to dazzle and delight.
  • Alpine Ice Skating: Skate under twinkling lights on real outdoor ice with your loved ones—it’s the picture-perfect moment!
  • BIGGER & MORE FUN Slip N Slide Summit: A Classic Christmas favorite but now bigger and more fun! Grab an inner tube and race down the exhilarating snow slide—crafted with real ice and built for both thrill-seekers and little adventurers. Daredevils can take on the Black Diamond lanes, while the Beginner Lanes offer a gentler ride for young kiddos and the young-at-heart. Just watch out for avalanches!
  • Santa and Mrs. Claus Visits: Catch Santa on vacation in his ski gondola—not the workshop! It’s a one-of-a-kind holiday photo opportunity you won’t want to miss. Then, cozy up for heartwarming story time with Mrs. Claus.
  • Cinemark Christmas Classics: Settle in for beloved holiday movie screenings from Cinemark—perfect for cozy family moments.
  • Après Ski Dance Party: Cap off the night on the light-up dance floor! With mountain-lodge vibes and holiday beats, the ‘Après Ski’ party invites you to dance the night away under the stars.
  • Live Music & Holiday Programming: From Christmas karaoke and ugly sweater contests to festive bands and carolers, there’s something for everyone.
  • Trailside Treats & Sips: Refreshing Coca-Cola products, hot cocoa, holiday cocktails, themed snacks and more will keep you fueled for your festive fun.
  • Instagrammable Moments Galore: Bring your sparkle—photo ops are everywhere, with enhanced photo packages available for keepsake holiday memories.

“We’re proud to partner with Social House to help bring the REAL magic of Christmas to life,” said Derek Alexander, Vice President of Commercial & Digital at Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages. “The overwhelming response from families last year proved there’s a deep love for classic traditions with a fresh twist. We’re honored to be part of this unforgettable celebration.”

GET INVOLVED WITH COCA-COLA’S CLASSIC CHRISTMAS

Coca-Cola’s Classic Christmas welcomes the local community to help spread the cheer. Whether you’re a holiday performer, content creator, seasonal staffer, or brand sponsor, there’s a place for you at Classic Christmas.

Visit ClassicChristmas.com for more information.

GROUP TICKETS & PRIVATE EVENTS AT CLASSIC CHRISTMAS

Transport your holiday celebration to the magically delightful Classic Christmas with a custom group ticket package. From small group events (10-25 tickets) to corporate holiday parties of small, medium, or large scale, there is an option for you at Classic Christmas. For all group opportunities, discounts, and benefits visit classicchristmas.com/book-a-party.

CONNECT WITH CLASSIC CHRISTMAS

Sign up at ClassicChristmas.com for early ticket access, exclusive offers, festive tips, and all the latest holiday magic.

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ABOUT ARCA CONTINENTAL COCA-COLA SOUTHWEST BEVERAGES

Dallas-based Arca Continental Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages (CCSWB) is one of the largest Coca-Cola bottlers in the United States. The company employs more than 9,000 associates who operate 7 production plants and 37 distribution facilities. CCSWB produces, markets and distributes Coca-Cola brands throughout Texas and parts of Oklahoma, New Mexico and Arkansas. With an outstanding track record of nearly 100 years, Arca Continental is one of the largest Coca-Cola bottlers in the world. Within its Coca-Cola franchise, the company serves a population of more than 128 million in the northern and western parts of Mexico as well as Ecuador, Peru, the northern region of Argentina, and the Southwestern U.S. Arca Continental is listed on the Mexican Stock Market under the ticker symbol “AC.” For further information about Arca Continental, please visit www.arcacontal.com.

ABOUT CLASSIC CHRISTMAS

Classic Christmas was created by Enchant, the visionary behind the award-winning World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze, a holiday experience that has captivated millions across the U.S. and Canada. Since its founding in 2016, Enchant has become renowned for producing immersive holiday events that feature expansive light displays, ice skating experiences, live entertainment, and more. Classic Christmas, the latest creation, offers a nostalgic, community-focused celebration that brings the magic of the season to life all in partnership with Coca-Cola.

Beginning in 2025, Classic Christmas is produced by Social House Entertainment, a full-scale event production company known for transforming outdoor venues into unforgettable festival and live event experiences. With a passion for community, creativity, and high-impact live experiences, Social House is proud to carry the Enchant legacy forward—bringing magic, memory-making, and holiday joy to select U.S. cities this year, with plans to expand in the seasons ahead. Learn more at EnchantChristmas.com and ClassicChristmas.com.

Patricia Chi
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Varsity Boys Elite

The Coppell cross-country teams had the opportunity to race at the Coach T. Marcus Invitational this weekend at North Lakes Park in Denton, the same course where District will be held in October. Running the course early provides valuable experience, but storms forced the cancellation of the JV boys’ and JV girls’ races, sidelining about 40 Coppell runners. That left the Varsity squads to lead the way against more than 100 schools, many among the state’s toughest programs.

Despite the challenging conditions of heat and mud, Coppell’s Varsity athletes, including Maya Easterwood and Diego Morales, delivered standout performances.

Coach’s Highlights on the Cowgirls

In the Elite Varsity Girls’ race, Coppell finished 13th out of 31 teams. Senior Maya Easterwood dominated from start to finish, winning the race while setting the pace alone at the front. Freshmen Finleigh Sanders-Burk and Rachel Stumm followed as Coppell’s 2nd and 3rd finishers, both posting mid-19-minute times that exceeded expectations. Anusha Patki and Bishakha Sinha rounded out the top five with strong efforts in their first high school 5K races. Four of Coppell’s top five finishers were freshmen, a promising sign for the future.

In the Varsity Girls’ Open division, Coppell placed 29th out of 36 teams. Charlotte Baade led the way for the Cowgirls, with Hannah Stumm and Vanini Agarwal following close behind.

 

Coach’s Highlights on the Cowboys

The Elite Varsity Boys finished 16th out of 43 teams. Senior Diego Morales and sophomore Sam Meier paced Coppell with strong races, while Rohit Kalpathy, Sidharth Kerthipati, and freshman Tyler Kim rounded out the top five. For Kim, it was an impressive debut at the 5K distance.

The Varsity Boys’ Open team earned Coppell’s top finish of the day, placing 9th out of 45 squads in a race of 384 runners. Seven Coppell athletes placed in the top 102, led by Itsuki Pena, Vihaan Sahni, Srivanth Rudrangi, Marco Noyola, and Lukas Stumm. Pena and Sahni also ran the 6th and 7th fastest times of all Coppell athletes on the day.

Coach’s Perspective

Coach Wren summed up the weekend:

“Overall, I’m extremely encouraged by what I saw from the athletes that were able to run on Saturday. We have a lot of talented runners that either ran their first 5K ever or their first one in a while. I look forward to continuing to build in practice this week leading up to the Southlake Carroll Invitational next weekend.”

Looking Ahead

Next up, Coppell will compete on September 6 at the Southlake 5K Cross Country Invitational. The meet will provide another early-season test for both the Cowboys and Cowgirls as they continue to build experience at the 5K distance. The program will aim to carry its momentum forward and keep improving with each race.

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

Contact Information

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

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45,000 POUNDS OF FOOD DELIVERED TO CARROLLTON AND FRISCO PANTRIES

 

CARROLLTON, Texas — More than 45,000 pounds of shelf-stable food and household essentials were delivered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to two North Texas food pantries, helping to address the growing hunger needs across the region.

The truck’s contents—including peanut butter, pancake mix, rice, pasta, spaghetti sauce, applesauce, diced tomatoes, non-fat dry milk, and hot cocoa—were split between Metrocrest Services in Carrollton and Frisco Family Services in Frisco, with each organization receiving about 700 cases of food and supplies to distribute to families in need.

 

Support for Families in Carrollton

“More than 22,000 pounds of high-quality nutritious food went straight onto our pantry shelves, meeting a critical need for the families we serve. With demand at an all-time high, our pantry now serves more than 1,400–1,500 families every week,” said Casen McMahan, Director of Nutrition Programs at Metrocrest Services.

“When neighbors come to the pantry, they’re met with healthy food offered with dignity and respect, and from there we connect them to programs like financial coaching, workforce development, and senior services that strengthen families and build long-term stability,” McMahan added.

“With the demand we’re seeing right now, this support helped us not just keep food on the table for our neighbors, but also give them a path forward. We’re grateful to have partners who care about both the urgent needs of today and the long-term health of our community,” McMahan said.

 

Meeting Needs in Frisco

“Today’s food donation from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints came at pivotal timing, when summer demand left our shelves running low,” said Clairissa Burton, Director of Client Services at Frisco Family Services.

“This food donation also allowed us to offer relief to families as they prepare for the holiday months,” Burton added.

“Many think there’s no hunger in Frisco, and we see a need every day. Without our faith-based programs, we couldn’t do some of our client programs to help those struggling in Frisco.”

Burton noted that the hardest-hit clients often face short-term unemployment of three to six months and have depleted their savings or retirement. “Helping them with food gives them hope,” she said.

“This donation from the Church allowed us to refill shelves and fill the gaps so that a client could get a full shopping list. They didn’t have to get spaghetti without the sauce,” said Desiree Thomas, Market Manager at Frisco Family Services.

“My daily prayer is to ask God not to let our shelves go bare, and God continually answers,” Thomas said.

Frisco Family Services received the donation at a critical moment, as their shelves were depleted after the summer months. Over the past year, they provided more than 724,000 meals to neighbors in crisis.

 

Why It Matters: Growing Hunger in North Texas

Hunger in the DFW metro area is on the rise. In 2025, about 1.3 million people across the region were food insecure — a 12% increase over the previous year. The Dallas–Fort Worth area now ranks third in the nation for populations experiencing food insecurity, behind only New York City and Los Angeles.

 

A Shared Mission of Service

“Frisco Family Services has been a blessing to the community for many years. It has been our privilege to partner with them to provide support at different times and in different ways,” said Kris Katseanas, President of the Frisco Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

“An anchor element of our faith in Jesus Christ is to follow His invitation to love and serve everyone. We are grateful for all they do and for their example of charity and virtue,” Katseanas added.

 

How to Help

Community members can support the ongoing needs of both food banks—especially as the holiday season approaches—by visiting their websites or volunteering through JustServe.org.

 

About Metrocrest Services

Metrocrest Services provides hope and stability to individuals, families, and seniors in Carrollton, Coppell, Farmers Branch, Addison, and parts of Dallas in Denton County. Programs include a client-choice food pantry, housing stability assistance, workforce development, financial education, senior services, and seasonal programs. In 2024, Metrocrest distributed more than 5 million pounds of food and served an average of 1,500 families each week. For more information, visit www.metrocrestservices.org

 

About Frisco Family Services

Frisco Family Services has served neighbors in crisis for over 30 years by providing food, housing and utility assistance, adult life skills education, and other essential services. The organization operates Frisco’s only community food pantry, which provided more than 724,000 meals in 2024. Seasonal programs, including summer hunger relief, Thanksgiving meal boxes, and holiday support, bring additional help to families in need. Learn more at www.friscofamilyservices.org

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Pin on Pinterest

45,000 POUNDS OF FOOD DELIVERED TO CARROLLTON AND FRISCO PANTRIES

 

CARROLLTON, Texas — More than 45,000 pounds of shelf-stable food and household essentials were delivered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to two North Texas food pantries, helping to address the growing hunger needs across the region.

The truck’s contents—including peanut butter, pancake mix, rice, pasta, spaghetti sauce, applesauce, diced tomatoes, non-fat dry milk, and hot cocoa—were split between Metrocrest Services in Carrollton and Frisco Family Services in Frisco, with each organization receiving about 700 cases of food and supplies to distribute to families in need.

 

Support for Families in Carrollton

“More than 22,000 pounds of high-quality nutritious food went straight onto our pantry shelves, meeting a critical need for the families we serve. With demand at an all-time high, our pantry now serves more than 1,400–1,500 families every week,” said Casen McMahan, Director of Nutrition Programs at Metrocrest Services.

“When neighbors come to the pantry, they’re met with healthy food offered with dignity and respect, and from there we connect them to programs like financial coaching, workforce development, and senior services that strengthen families and build long-term stability,” McMahan added.

“With the demand we’re seeing right now, this support helped us not just keep food on the table for our neighbors, but also give them a path forward. We’re grateful to have partners who care about both the urgent needs of today and the long-term health of our community,” McMahan said.

 

Meeting Needs in Frisco

“Today’s food donation from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints came at pivotal timing, when summer demand left our shelves running low,” said Clairissa Burton, Director of Client Services at Frisco Family Services.

“This food donation also allowed us to offer relief to families as they prepare for the holiday months,” Burton added.

“Many think there’s no hunger in Frisco, and we see a need every day. Without our faith-based programs, we couldn’t do some of our client programs to help those struggling in Frisco.”

Burton noted that the hardest-hit clients often face short-term unemployment of three to six months and have depleted their savings or retirement. “Helping them with food gives them hope,” she said.

“This donation from the Church allowed us to refill shelves and fill the gaps so that a client could get a full shopping list. They didn’t have to get spaghetti without the sauce,” said Desiree Thomas, Market Manager at Frisco Family Services.

“My daily prayer is to ask God not to let our shelves go bare, and God continually answers,” Thomas said.

Frisco Family Services received the donation at a critical moment, as their shelves were depleted after the summer months. Over the past year, they provided more than 724,000 meals to neighbors in crisis.

 

Why It Matters: Growing Hunger in North Texas

Hunger in the DFW metro area is on the rise. In 2025, about 1.3 million people across the region were food insecure — a 12% increase over the previous year. The Dallas–Fort Worth area now ranks third in the nation for populations experiencing food insecurity, behind only New York City and Los Angeles.

 

A Shared Mission of Service

“Frisco Family Services has been a blessing to the community for many years. It has been our privilege to partner with them to provide support at different times and in different ways,” said Kris Katseanas, President of the Frisco Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

“An anchor element of our faith in Jesus Christ is to follow His invitation to love and serve everyone. We are grateful for all they do and for their example of charity and virtue,” Katseanas added.

 

How to Help

Community members can support the ongoing needs of both food banks—especially as the holiday season approaches—by visiting their websites or volunteering through JustServe.org.

 

About Metrocrest Services

Metrocrest Services provides hope and stability to individuals, families, and seniors in Carrollton, Coppell, Farmers Branch, Addison, and parts of Dallas in Denton County. Programs include a client-choice food pantry, housing stability assistance, workforce development, financial education, senior services, and seasonal programs. In 2024, Metrocrest distributed more than 5 million pounds of food and served an average of 1,500 families each week. For more information, visit www.metrocrestservices.org

 

About Frisco Family Services

Frisco Family Services has served neighbors in crisis for over 30 years by providing food, housing and utility assistance, adult life skills education, and other essential services. The organization operates Frisco’s only community food pantry, which provided more than 724,000 meals in 2024. Seasonal programs, including summer hunger relief, Thanksgiving meal boxes, and holiday support, bring additional help to families in need. Learn more at www.friscofamilyservices.org