Home Care In Plano, TX

PLANO, Texas - With a cast and crew of 1,200 people, a North Texas church tells the Christmas story in a big way, thanks to a massive labor of love by church members.

In recent years, however, the production has drawn viral attention for being "over-the-top."

Prestonwood Baptist's ‘Gift of Christmas’

For many in North Texas, attending Prestonwood Baptist’s "Gift of Christmas" has been a special family tradition for years.

While some have recently criticized the production, many in the community have a deep appreciation for the volunteer-driven show.

The show features flying angels, a 50-piece orchestra, live animals and 1,200 performers, of which 95 percent are volunteer church members.

Gift of Christmas is not funded through church tithes. Rather, it funds itself through its own ticket sales for the 14 shows, all the way down to the bibles that are given away.

'It literally takes a village'

What they're saying:

Andy Pearson is the creative director for the operation. It's his 25th year putting on the massive production, and the excitement is still fresh.

"There are 1,200 performers in our show, from our kids' choir, adult choir, dancers, singers, to our orchestra backstage team. It is a massive production. I don't know of many places that have this many people involved in a two-hour show," Pearson said.

Among them is Giovanna Scroggins.

"My biggest role is a new role. I am an aerialist if you will, flying through the air. I don't want to give too much away," she teased.

For Scroggins, the Gift of Christmas is a longtime tradition.

"Since I was a little girl, 4 to 5 years old. Grown up in Prestonwood," said Scroggins. "I do it with my mom every year."

"We could not do this without our volunteers," Pearson said.

‘It is over the top’

While the production recently drew viral criticism for being extravagant, Pearson says pulling out all the stops is the whole point.

"One hundred percent, it is over the top," Pearson said. "Our pastor has told us one of his mottos is, "excellence in all things, and all things to the glory of God," and that is what this show is. It is over the top. We look at our community and there is so much competing for our time, and that we can put this on to this scale. It is awesome."

Among the volunteers is church member Tanya Walch, who sews many of the costumes with her mom and now daughter.

"We've always loved the costumes. Now to see them up there and think we had a part, we think how we got to do this. The Lord has blessed us to use the sewing abilities he gave us to serve the Lord in this way," said Walch.

Jill Chatham, the kids worship coordinator, says the production is also a way to minister to the church's youth.

"We instill in kids to not have that fear. They can get on a stage at the gift of Christmas and share the gospel and let them know what fun it is to celebrate Jesus," said Chatham.

Which is, for them, the true "gift of Christmas."

"It literally takes a village to do this," said Pearson.

The Source: Information in this report comes from FOX 4 interviews with Prestonwood Baptist members.

The club is accepting a limited number of new social and executive members

A new chapter in North Texas hospitality is taking shape at Legacy North. Legacy Club, a members-only destination designed to blend refinement with a relaxed Texas spirit, is set to open its doors in March 2026.

With construction nearing completion and membership applications now open, the project is already drawing attention from local leaders, founders and residents looking for a new space to gather.

A Space Built For Connection

Legacy Club was envisioned as more than a clubhouse. The team behind it describes the project as a place where people can connect naturally, without the formality that often comes with private social spaces.

Early membership invitations went to a curated group of local leaders, and with that initial group now full, the club is accepting a limited number of new social and executive members ahead of opening.

Inside the 20,000-square-foot space, members will find five distinct rooms, each designed with its own personality. The Arena channels the high-energy feel of a Vegas sports bar, while Wild Orchid brings a softer, garden-forward atmosphere with live music, tea service and wine-focused events. A full-service restaurant will anchor the culinary program, offering sushi, seafood and Texas steaks in a contemporary setting.

Though each area has its own mood, the club’s unifying idea is simple: offer an elevated experience without stiff rules or pretension. Legacy Club aims to foster real conversation and create a place where members feel equally comfortable unwinding after work or hosting clients for a business dinner.

According to Managing Director Ryan Thomas, the vision centers on designing a property that feels both sophisticated and welcoming.

“Everything about Legacy Club was created with our members in mind,” said Ryan Thomas, managing director of Legacy Club, in an official statement. “The club will be refined, but also committed to warm Texas hospitality. We want everyone who visits Legacy Club to experience the best of what North Texas has to offer: beautifully designed spaces, engaging events and thoughtful food and drink.”

A New Anchor For Legacy North

When Legacy Club opens next spring, it is expected to become one of Legacy North’s most notable additions, offering date-night options, networking opportunities and a polished home base for everything from live entertainment to curated culinary events. With its emphasis on programming and a layout that encourages exploration, it aims to serve as both a retreat and a hub for community life.

“We are excited to bring the community a club that’s uniquely designed for them and an experience that Plano and North Texas can be proud of,” said Thomas

Membership inquiries and design previews are available through the club’s website, with more details expected as opening day approaches. ___

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One of the smallest schools in Texas beat one of the biggest in girls' basketball.

DALLAS — The tiny Texas town of Gordon is no stranger to a big stage. The high school's six-man football team routinely plays in state championship games at AT&T Stadium, and the girls basketball team is playing at the home of the San Antonio Spurs this week.

But those are just venues.

Last week, the Lady Longhorns basketball team faced a giant of an opponent -- and won.

Gordon beat Plano West 49-42 in overtime, on Plano West's home court. A Class 1A team beating a Class 6A opponent sounds shocking enough on its own. Then there are the numbers:

Gordon, enrollment 75.

Plano West, enrollment 5,337 (the third-most in Texas).

"It was a huge opportunity for us, one of the biggest schools in the state," Gordon coach Matt Garnett said, "and it felt like it was a fight we wanted to try to go get in."

Garnett, a former men's college coach at McMurry and Wayland Baptist, is in his first year at Gordon, which is located about 65 miles west of Fort Worth in Palo Pinto County. Garnett left the college ranks about a decade ago but wanted to get back into coaching when his daughters started playing basketball.

And it was his oldest daughter, Faith Garnett, who led Gordon in scoring against Plano West, dropping 29 points in the comeback win (Gordon trailed by 10 in the third quarter).

Gordon's meeting with Plano West happened by chance. Plano West coach Kelli Bagley was hiring an assistant coach, and Garnett was a reference for one of the candidates. Bagley called Garnett, and they both needed a non-district game on the schedule. And the matchup was set.

"I was really appreciative," Garnett said of Bagley's offer. "She's a really quality person."

Gordon leaned into their defense in the second half against Plano West and forced overtime, and then pulled away.

The Lady Longhorns are 6-0 and play New Braunfels Christian Academy on Tuesday at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio.

While Faith Garnett is the team's leading scorer (13.4 ppg) on the season, they've had five different leading scorers in their six games. Grace Garnett, the coach's younger daughter, is averaging 13.2 points per game, and Marley Jackson is averaging 10.3 points per game and six rebounds. Jackson had 13 points and seven rebounds in the win against Plano West.

"They are a very unselfish group," Matt Garnett said.

Meanwhile, the Gordon football team is looking to win its third straight state championship in Class 1A. Since Gordon is so small, the Longhorns play six-man football -- but even so, they have two Division I recruits in Stryker Reed (Air Force) and Ry Reed (Army).

The Longhorns boys basketball team doesn't start until after football season, but they're looking to build on a 21-4 record last season. And the girls basketball team is already rolling in what could be a season that ends with a playoff run.

So, what's in the water in Gordon?

"There's just a blue collar approach to the work. We love the work," Garnett said. "Just some tough-minded kids."

Another retail giant with a well-known presence in the Lone Star State is closing its doors to make way for a massive transformation. A state WARN notice posted on November 8 indicates the Dillard's at Plano's The Shops at Willow Bend will shut down in January 2026, with 93 layoffs expected on or shortly after January 12, 2026.

Dillard's was one of four anchor stores for The Shops at Willow Bend, which opened in the DFW suburb in 2001. The other three stores included Foley's, Lord & Taylor and Neiman Marcus. Dallas-based retailer Neiman Marcus announced in September that it would be leaving The Shops at Willow Bend in January 2027, according to reports by CBS News. Saks Global, the parent company of Neiman Marcus, sold the store's property to the mall's developer, calling the transaction a "mutual decision that allows the developer to bring its vision for the area to life."

The closures of massive retailers in a place that was once considered one of North Texas' top malls relate to the "transformational redevelopment project" in the works for the aging shopping center, led by the property's latest owner and operator, Centennial. After purchasing the center's Macy's store in late 2024, Centennial reimagined its original plan for "The Bend," the future name for what is currently The Shops at Willow Bend.

According to a February news release, the revised vision for the mixed-use plan includes new townhome-style attached residences and detached family homes. As for the currently enclosed mall, the redevelopment plan calls for a portion of it to be demolished to make room for housing, a hotel, a dog park and "carefully designed green spaces for relaxation and community activities." From the looks of the current renderings, it seems The Bend will somewhat rival the appearance of The Domain in Austin, with housing, entertainment and green space intertwined among stores, restaurants, hotels and more.

However, recent reports by the Plano Star Courier indicate another possibility for the site where The Shops at Willow Bend currently sit: a new hockey arena for the Dallas Stars. The team's lease with its current arena home, The American Airlines Center, expires in 2031. This would be a 21-mile move north of downtown Dallas for the NHL team.

Dillard's was founded in 1938 by William T. Dillard. The first store, which was called T. J. Dillard’s, was located in Nashville, Arkansas. Over the years, the department store has become a mainstay in shopping centers across Texas.

For many North Texans, the holidays mean twinkling lights, spiked eggnog and more holiday spirit than an elf on espresso — because why stop at decking the halls when you can deck the bar, too?

If you’re ready to trade your living room for a tinsel-covered escape, this roundup of the best Christmas-themed bars and restaurants in North Texas will have you sipping, snacking and celebrating in full holiday style.

Here’s Local Profile’s curated list of the best holiday pop-ups in North Texas:

The Henry

When: Nov. 11, 2025–Jan. 4, 2026 Where: 2301 N. Akard St., Dallas More info

The Henry’s iconic rooftop transforms into St. Henry’s Winter Wonderland for its sixth season, offering a cozy holiday escape with festive décor, fire pits and twinkling lights. Enjoy new seasonal cocktails like the whiskey and doughnuts, spiced pear cosmopolitan and Junior & Mrs. Mint, plus winter bites such as brie and prosciutto S’mores and bacon-wrapped shrimp. Admission is $7 per guest, with a portion benefiting the North Texas Food Bank.

Omni PGA Frisco

When: Nov. 11, 2025–Jan. 9, 2026 Where: Omni PGA Frisco, 4341 PGA Pkwy., Frisco More info

Omni PGA Frisco is serving up holiday cheer with Blitzen’s Bar, a glitzy pop-up created by NYC mixologist and Drink Masters judge Julie Reiner. The space sparkles with over-the-top décor and a lineup of festive cocktails like the Blitzen, Espress-Ho Ho Martini and Naughty or Spice. Guests can also sip a zero-proof mocktail or spike their hot chocolate for extra holiday spirit. Pair your drink with playful bites like Reindeer Fuel, Miso Tinsel or Choco Sleigh Ride — because at Blitzen’s, the season’s all about sipping, snacking and sparkle.

Suburban Yacht Club

When: Nov. 5, 2025–Jan. 1, 2026 Where: 872 State Hwy 121 suite 104, Plano More info

Suburban Yacht Club is trading beach vibes for snowflakes with a full holiday takeover. The restaurant transforms into a twinkling winter wonderland filled with lights, lanterns and a festive photo booth. Sip on cheeky seasonal cocktails like Naughty but Nice Spiked Cocoa, Sleigh My Name and Kringle All the Way, or warm up with kid-friendly cocoa from Santa’s “elves.” Don’t miss holiday bites like sugar and spice churros and Tis’ the Season Tamales, perfect for fueling all that merry-making.

Legacy Hall

When: Dec. 7–27, 2025 Where: Legacy Hall, 7800 Windrose Ave., Plano More info

Legacy Hall is turning up the holiday spirit with a month of festive fun, food and live music. Shop 20+ local vendors at the Free Holiday Market on Dec. 7, rock out to a Taylor Swift tribute at Toys and Tunes on Dec. 13, test your knowledge at Holiday Movie Trivia on Dec. 16 and wrap it all up with Epic Unplugged’s An Epic Christmas concert on Dec. 27. Events range from free to ticketed — and yes, there’s hot cocoa (and cocktails) to keep things merry.

La Parisienne

When: Nov. 14, 2025–Feb. 1, 2026 Where: Locations in Frisco and Addison More info

La Parisienne is going full-on holiday chic with its Winter Wonderland pop-up, turning the bistro into a dreamy Parisian snow globe. Sip on a candy cane martini that’s as pretty as it is pepperminty, warm up with a cozy hot toddy or keep it classy with festive mocktails. Feeling extra fancy? Book their winter afternoon tea for a little sparkle with your scones.

Three Empires Brewery

When: Nov. 6, 2025–Feb. 15, 2026 Where: 6990 Main St., Ste. 200, Frisco Call 972-742-2550 for reservations

Three Empires Brewery is bringing the cozy vibes with its Winter Bubble Experience — think private, twinkle-lit domes straight out of a snow globe. Snuggle up under plush blankets, sip wine or beer and snack on charcuterie while the world outside chills. Couples can book a dome for $150 (includes a bottle of wine or growler and a charcuterie board), while groups up to six can upgrade for $225. Each 90-minute session is available Thursday through Sunday, but book ahead, these bubbles fill up fast.

Hilton Anatole

When: Nov. 28, 2025–Jan. 4, 2026 Where: 2201 N. Stemmons Fwy., Dallas More info

The Hilton Anatole is reimagining the holidays with an all-new lineup of winter festivities. Guests can glide across Dallas’ largest outdoor ice rink, enjoy a live performance by Olympic skater Ashley Cain on Dec. 5 and reserve private winter glass chalets for an intimate seasonal escape. Choose the family-friendly cozy cocoa chalet or indulge in the bubbly and bites chalet, complete with Moët & Chandon and charcuterie. After skating, guests can warm up at The Lodge with festive drinks and bites, while families enjoy crafts, bounce houses and storytime with Mrs. Claus.

Heirloom Haul

When: Nov. 21–Dec. 31, 2025 | Times vary by event Where: Locations in Frisco and Prosper More info

Celebrate the season at Heirloom Haul with its holiday tea service, breakfast with Santa and festive seasonal drinks. Enjoy an elegant holiday tea featuring savory bites, sweet treats and sparkling bubbles in a vintage-inspired setting. Breakfast with Santa returns for family fun, with Frisco seatings on Nov. 30 and Dec. 14 (9–10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m.) and Prosper seatings on Dec. 7 and Dec. 21 (10–11:30 a.m.). Seasonal sips include the poinsettia ocktail, jingle bell bubbly and peppermint mocha latte, perfect for toasting or cozying up this holiday season.

Leela’s Wine Bar

When: Beginning Nov. 12, 2025 Where: Lower Greenville, Uptown and Trophy Club locations More info

Leela’s Wine Bar is toasting the season with three unique holiday pop-ups, each offering a different festive mood. Lower Greenville embraces a “classic and nostalgic” theme, Uptown goes “chic and whimsical” and Trophy Club transforms into a “woodsy and enchanted” retreat. Across all locations, guests can enjoy Leela’s signature espresso martini flights and seasonal bites like pomegranate whipped feta and mini brie wheels with honey and nuts.

The Westin Stonebriar Snow Globe Experience

When: Nov 14, 2025–Jan 25, 2026 Where: The Westin Stonebriar, 1549 Legacy Dr, Frisco More info

The Westin Stonebriar is bringing the magic with its cozy Snow Globe Experience, a private, heated dome perfect for winter date nights or family hangouts. Each 90-minute session fits up to five guests and includes a welcome pour of Prosecco or house wine plus a shared cheese board. It’s a warm, twinkly escape without ever leaving Frisco. $125 per party, up to six people.

Sixty Vines

When: Dec. 2, 2025–Feb. 14, 2026 Where: Sixty Vines Uptown, 500 Crescent Ct., Dallas More info

Sip, swirl and get snug in your own private igloo at Sixty Vines’ Wine Country Winter Wonderland. Each cozy dome comes decked out with blankets, pillows, a heater and your own Bluetooth speaker, perfect for sipping wine under the “snow.” There’s a $200 food and beverage minimum, but the vibes (and the vino) are priceless.

The Village Dallas

When: Nov. 28–Dec. 27, 2025 Where: The Village Country Club, 5670 Village Glen Dr., Dallas More info

The Village Dallas is bringing back A Very Merry Village, its over-the-top holiday pop-up packed with lights, cocktails and cheer. Set on the second floor of The Village Country Club, the space glows with thousands of twinkling lights, dazzling ornaments and a 50-foot Christmas tree anchoring its festive “Main Street.” Guests can wander through the décor, enjoy themed bites and cocktails, and snap plenty of photos along the way.

Entry is free, and the month features special themed events like Sip & Wrap, Holiday Carol-oke, movie nights, and live music. Early evenings are open to all ages; after 8 p.m., it becomes a 21+ holiday hangout. Walk-ins welcome, no reservation needed.

This list will be updated through the holiday season. ___

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