Celina’s Community Comes Together for Beware! of the Square and Christmas on the Square
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/ Rooted in Celina: The Ousley Legacy and the Land That Remembers
/ Capital Improvement Projects
30 / Parks & Recreation: Quarterly Guide, Play Connected. 34 / Celina Public Library 6 / Life Connected.: Snapshots of Celina
/ Resident Resources: Community Waste Disposal (CWD) 27 / Life Connected. Podcast
36 / EDC: Holiday Passport Program & New Businesses in 2025 40 / Connected to Our Past: Bobcat Fieldhouse - Locker Room to Legacy 45 / Connected to Our Past: Celina Football Coach, G.A. Moore Tribute 21 / Blue Santa and Fire Santa
24 / Fire: Severe Weather Facts & Checklists CITY-RELATED
38 / Special Events Calendar
Joe Monaco, Director of Marketing & Communications
Kelly Blue, Marketing & Communications Manager
Stephanie Webb, Senior Digital Media Analyst
Courtney Ford, Graphic Designer
Marc Rylander, Chief Communications Officer (Gray Reed Advisory)
Charlie Rose, Director of Strategic Communications (Gray Reed Advisory)
Cassie McKnight, Cassie Lee Photography CONTRIBUTORS
Letter from the Mayor
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Holiday Season in Celina
GREETINGS, CELINA RESIDENTS AND FRIENDS.
As the air cools and the leaves begin to turn, fall reminds us why this season is such a favorite in our community. There’s something special about Friday nights under the lights and weekends filled with competition, as we cheer on all of our Bobcat students - on the field, on the court, in the classroom, and beyond. It’s a time when school spirit shines, and our community comes together to support their hard work and dedication.
The final quarter of the year also brings some of our most beloved celebrations from the thrills of Beware! of the Square to the festive spirit of Christmas on the Square and Countdown to Christmas, not to mention the last few Celina Friday Night Markets that make our Downtown come alive. With the holiday season approaching, I encourage everyone to enjoy these traditions while staying mindful of safety - whether that means slowing down in busy shopping areas, being cautious with holiday lights and decorations, or simply looking out for your neighbors.
This is also an excellent time to reflect on the growth we’ve seen as a city and the progress still to come. We’ve officially broken ground on Wilson Creek Park - a project that will provide incredible recreational opportunities for families - and we’re thrilled to be opening the new Old Celina Park Playground. These spaces are designed to bring people together, encourage healthy living, and provide our children and neighbors with a place to connect and thrive.
In addition, our public safety investments continue to move forward with the upcoming groundbreaking of Fire Station #4. As Celina grows, we must remain proactive in planning for the future, ensuring that our first responders have the necessary resources to keep our residents safe. These projects, along with many others, are a reflection of your trust and patience as we continue building a strong foundation for generations to come.
There’s no doubt, a lot is happening in Celina, and I want to personally thank each of you for your support as these efforts take shape. From the Celina Friday Night Markets to the big moments that bring us all Downtown, I encourage you to participate, celebrate, and enjoy these memories with your family and neighbors. Together, we make our City special.
As we close out 2025, let’s continue to support one another, enjoy these special moments, and look ahead to an exciting 2026 filled with new opportunities, new milestones, and the same sense of community that makes Celina feel like home.
With gratitude,
Meet the Mayor & City Council
In each issue of Life Connected. Magazine, we invite our Mayor and City Council Members to share their thoughts on a question that gets to the heart of our community. In this edition, we asked them to reflect on a personal tradition — big or small — that has stayed with them over the years. From cherished family rituals to everyday habits, our elected officials share what these traditions mean to them and how they connect them to our city.
RYAN TUBBS, MAYOR | rtubbs@celina-tx.gov
For the Tubbs family, one of our favorite traditions is spending time together at Christmas on the Square. From those early days of riding the little train around the Square to enjoying all the wonderful activities offered now, it’s always been a magical experience for us. Sharing Cupcakes with Mrs. Claus, capturing picture-perfect memories, and even waiting in line to meet new friends and neighbors all add to the joy. Each year, we look forward to it as a special time to celebrate together and remember the true reason for the season.
PHILIP FERGUSON, PLACE 1 | pferguson@celina-tx.gov
The first is reading ’Twas the Night Before Christmas on Christmas Eve before the kids go to bed. I bought the book in 1997, years before I even had children, just as a decorative piece at the time. Once my first child was born, I began reading it to her so she could get excited for Santa before bedtime. That tradition has continued every year and now includes her brother as well. Even as they’ve grown and we find ourselves in different places on Christmas Eve, we keep it going through Teams, FaceTime, or whatever works best for everyone. For me, it’s one of the highlights of the entire Christmas season.
The second tradition is my Christmas tree topper - an angel I bought for about $10 at Walmart in Las Vegas in 1995, when I had my first apartment after college. She’s nothing fancy, but I love seeing her at the top of the tree each year. She’s a simple reminder of many fond holiday memories and will always hold that special place on my tree.
EDDIE CAWLFIELD, PLACE 2, MAYOR PRO TEM | ecawlfield@celina-tx.gov
I especially cherish our yearly holiday traditions, from baking our favorite Ranch Goldfish and decorating cookies to attending Christmas Eve church services. I also enjoy revisiting classic holiday films, such as It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and A Charlie Brown Christmas. Our family kicks off the season by attending the Christmas tree lighting on the Square, spending time with friends, and enjoying the festive holiday atmosphere.
ANDY HOPKINS, PLACE 3 | ahopkins@celina-tx.gov
One of our favorite traditions is collecting Christmas ornaments during our travels, both across the U.S. and abroad. Each year, when Debbie and I decorate the tree, we have the joy of reliving those trips and the memories that came with them. With Christmas music playing in the background, it feels as though we’re taking a little journey together all over again - making the season even more meaningful.
WENDIE WIGGINTON, PLACE 4 | wwigginton@celina-tx.gov
Christmas has always been my favorite time of the year because my parents made it so special growing up. Now, with my own family, we’ve carried on those traditions. We still do stockings with our kids, and the excitement of opening one present on Christmas Eve is a tradition we’ve happily kept alive.
MINDY KOEHNE, PLACE 5 | mkoehne@celina-tx.gov
One of my favorite holiday traditions is a “fiesta”-themed Christmas Eve dinner. While I’m not certain which generation began it, my family has enjoyed a Tex-Mex meal on Christmas Eve for as long as I can remember. Add in a lively white elephant gift exchange, and it’s the perfect way to kick off the Christmas celebrations.
BRANDON GRUMBLES, PLACE 6, DEPUTY MAYOR PRO TEM | bgrumbles@celina-tx.gov
One holiday tradition that has stayed with me over the years is putting up the Christmas tree before Halloween. Since we don’t celebrate Halloween, this has always been our way of skipping past it and moving straight into the joy of the season. There’s something about the soft glow of the lights and the warmth it brings to our home that makes those fall evenings feel special. The tree transforms the house into a reminder of family, faith, and the peace that Christmas represents. For us, starting the season early is less about the timing and more about filling our home with the spirit of Christmas for as long as possible.
Life Connected. : Snapshots of Celina
Splash & Blast
9/11 Memorial Ceremony
Movie Night on the Square
Old Celina Park Playground Ribbon Cutting
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8 | 8 AM TO 1 PM REQUEST
The City of Celina is dedicated to strengthening our community by fostering connections through meaningful acts of service.
Life Connected. Service Day is a one-day event that bring together volunteers to support residents in need, building lasting relationships with our neighbors.
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PROJECTS MAY INCLUDE AND MANY MORE!
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City Council’s Priority Objectives
The City of Celina has unveiled a new Strategic Plan Dashboard to provide residents, stakeholders, and City Council with a clear view of the City’s progress toward its 2026 - 2028 Strategic Plan. This innovative platform delivers timely updates on the actions City staff have completed in the previous quarter while also outlining initiatives planned for the upcoming quarter.
By making this information accessible, the dashboard strengthens the City’s commitment to transparency and accountability, ensuring that day-to-day operations and
Prioritize the reconstruction of Downtown roads in the five-year Capital Improvement Plan.
Prioritize the completion of all phases of Ousley Park.
Expand access to water resources through multiple initiatives.
Focus on the top priority projects from the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) Strategic Framework – open-air retail, Downtown, western heritage development, and stadium-anchored mixed-use.
Evaluate proposed development along the Dallas North Tollway (DNT) corridor based on the DNT Overlay standards, particularly in the high-rise zone.
resource allocation remain aligned with the community’s long-term priorities.
The dashboard is grounded in the Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) framework, introduced in Measure What Matters by John Doerr. The methodology enables City staff to transform broad, aspirational goals into focused objectives with measurable results, ensuring progress is both ambitious and trackable. This enhancement underscores Celina’s dedication to continuous improvement, data-driven decision-making, and goal-focused results that benefit the entire community.
Develop a comprehensive water conservation plan.
Examine and propose tools to preserve the historical character of the residential areas of Downtown.
Promote civic pride amongst residents and businesses.
Develop a comprehensive program for arts and culture, including funding and key projects.
Evaluate and implement Local Business Support Program action items.
Implement a comprehensive, five-year maintenance program for all City assets.
Strategic Plan Dashboard
A Strategic Plan is an essential tool for City leadership to identify City Council’s key priorities that will guide the organization over the next several years. The goals and objectives in the Strategic Plan represent the City Council’s highest priorities and are intended to provide clear direction to City staff as they execute day-to-day operations and long-term initiatives. They were adopted by City Council on in August 2025. This dashboard provides an opportunity for City Council, staff, and residents to track projects and progress on the goals and objectives throughout the year.
Explore the digital and interactive Strategic Plan Dashboard by scanning the QR code or visit bit.ly/StrategicPlanDash.
New Trash Service in Celina: Community Waste Disposal
Celina is set to enhance its waste management as the City transitions to Community Waste Disposal, introducing new services, improved sustainability, and greater convenience for residents.
Starting December 1, 2025, the City of Celina will transition its trash and recycling services from Waste Connections to Community Waste Disposal (CWD), following City Council approval at the March City Council Meeting. The change represents an opportunity to enhance waste management services while improving convenience, sustainability, and customer support for the community.
CART REMOVALS AND DELIVERIES
To ensure a smooth transition, Waste Connections will remove existing trash and recycling carts, and CWD will deliver new carts between October 27 and November 21. Removals and deliveries will occur on current collection days, with service divided into quadrants so the process unfolds over four weeks. Detailed delivery and removal schedules will be provided in advance.
Additional trash or recycling carts currently in service will be included in the transition and delivered by CWD during the four-week period. Old carts not removed during the scheduled week should continue to be placed at the collection point, as crews will revisit previous weeks for missed removals. Carts remaining after November 24 should be reported to CWD’s Customer Service Department. Similarly, if new carts are not delivered by 7:00 PM the day following the scheduled delivery, CWD Customer Service can be contacted at (972) 392-9300 (option 2) or by email at customerservice@cwd.to.
SERVICE ENHANCEMENTS
Tied & Bundled Brush and Bulk Pickup: Twice a month, with unlimited tied & bundled brush and up to two cubic yards of bulk per pickup; scheduling is not required.
Trash & Recycling Cart Cleaning: One-time annual cleaning. Smaller Trucks for Asphalt Roads and a Claw Brush Truck providing up to 50 hours annually to assist Public Works. New Resident Cardboard Collection: One-time collection option for new move-ins.
Commercial Cardboard Collection: Begins with 20 customers; includes 6–8 cubic yard containers to reduce landfill waste.
CARTS AND COST BENEFITS
All new gray (waste) and blue (recycling) carts will display CWD’s name and contact information. The transition also brings lower service costs and improved customer support, ensuring a more efficient system starting December 1.
The partnership between the City of Celina and Community Waste Disposal reflects a shared commitment to reliable, sustainable, and efficient waste management. Combining the City’s dedication to quality public services with CWD’s expertise and enhanced offerings provides households and businesses with a cleaner, more convenient, and environmentally responsible system. The collaboration emphasizes service, sustainability, and overall community satisfaction.
TRASH COLLECTION SCHEDULE
Beginning December 1, 2025, Community Waste Disposal will implement an updated trash collection schedule. For most areas, trash and recycling collection will continue as usual. However, a portion of the Downtown area, specifically locations west of the railroad and S. Walnut St, will see a schedule adjustment, with collection moving from Thursday to Wednesday.
Residents in affected areas are encouraged to review the updated schedule to ensure timely placement of trash and recycling materials.
BULK TRASH PICK-UP
Bulk trash pick-up is coordinated to occur on the same day as regular trash collection. For residents on the yellow week schedule, bulk pick-up will take place during the first and third weeks of each month. Residents on the blue week schedule will have bulk pickup during the second and fourth weeks of the month.
The schedule for bulk trash pickup will begin with the first full week of the month.
Photos from left to right: James Edgar Ousley, one of Celina's first Mayors / Ina Case Ousley, wife of Jon Cox Ousley and mother of James Edgar Ousley / Jacqueline "Maxine" Ousley
as a dancer at age 16 / Prom held at Celina movie theater / Jon Cox "JC" Ousley standing on Celina's Downtown Square / Sergai Ousley at age 8 / background image: The original Ousley family farm
Rooted in Celina: The Ousley Legacy and the Land That Remembers
How an unwavering six-generation legacy of vision, stewardship, and devotion to community helped shape Celina.
In Celina, where prairies once stretched wide and quiet, members of the Ousley family have lived on the same land for six generations.
Their story is not simply one of endurance - it is a legacy of vision, stewardship, and unwavering devotion to community.
It’s a story of breathing life into a town, nurturing its soul, and shaping its future with the same conviction that originally built their old farmhouse - and rebuilt it in 1957 using lumber from the original home - on land first purchased in 1871. That house still stands today, a living monument to continuity and care.
Perhaps the most notable member of the Ousley family, if you ask them, was the one they see as their matriarch. Others came before and after her, but to the family, Maxine Ousley embodied the heart of their family and a passionate love for Celina.
Born in 1915, she was a woman of remarkable contrasts - worldly and rooted, elegant and unshakably strong. She danced at Radio City Music Hall, traveled the globe eight times, and worked for broadcasting legend Gordon McClendon, escorting his daughters to boarding school in Switzerland.
But no matter how far she went, her heart never left Celina. It was in this town that she got her driver’s license at the age of 10 so she could drive the tractors from pasture to pasture.
When she returned in the 1950s with her mother Rooney Ousley Timmerman, known to her family as Mama Rooney, she didn’t just come home - she laid the foundation for generations to gather, grow, and give back. The house they built still anchors the family’s presence today, a testament to Maxine and Mama Rooney’s vision and devotion.
The original land purchased by the Ousley family’s greatgrandfather, Jon Cox Ousley, and his wife, Ida Case Ousley, marked the beginning of a relationship between the family and the Celina community that would span centuries. The land, once raw and untamed, became a place of harvest and hope. Cotton, cattle, and children were raised here. The rhythms of rural life - sunrises over the fields, the hum of
tractors, the scent of fresh-cut hay - became the backdrop to a family story that grew as Celina did.
Today, the Ousley family remains rooted on that land, with family members - Jace and his sons, Dylan, Isaac, and Eli Ousley - living in the same home, attending Celina High School, and carrying forward a legacy that is both personal and civic, one that continues to shape the town’s identity as it grows. Jack and Vivianne Ousley live just up the hill, keeping close to the land and the legacy that defines their family.
Make no mistake - Maxine ran a tight ship. She was the kind of woman who could charm a room and command it in the same breath. Her grace was matched by grit, and her expectations were clear. Her son, Dr. Jon Sergei Ousley, remembers the small-town charm of his youth in Celina with vivid clarity.
“Everybody knew everybody,” he said. “That was the most fun thing about it. You couldn’t get away with anything.”
He recalled getting his driver’s license at 14 and being pulled over for speeding on the way back from a football game.
“The whole town passed me on the road. I stayed out until midnight hoping my mom would be asleep. But she was up when I got home and said, ‘I got eight phone calls. Is there something you’re not telling me?’”
That blend of accountability and community, of knowing and being known, was something Maxine instilled in her family. The family has long been deeply involved in Celina’s civic life.
Her grandson, Jack, serves on the Celina Downtown Commission; his wife, Vivianne, worked for Celina ISD for years; and Jace has a history of service on the Planning & Zoning Commission.
Together, they help preserve the City’s character while guiding its growth - revitalizing the Square, advocating for historic preservation, and ensuring that Celina’s expansion doesn’t come at the expense of its soul.
The historic Downtown Square - still a vibrant hub of restaurants, shops, and events - has always been the City’s heartbeat. Dr. Jon Sergei remembers Saturdays on the Square as a weekly ritual back in the mid-1940s.
“We had dry goods stores, several grocery stores. It was packed. People came in from Prosper, Gunter, Weston, Pilot Point, and Frisco - all the towns around.”
That tradition lives on today, thanks in part to Jack’s leadership and the efforts of countless volunteers.
“Saturday’s on the Square were big,” Jack Ousley said. “We’ve also got Celina Cajun Fest, Oktoberfest, Celina Friday Night Markets - even when there’s a football game, people still show up.”
Jack also recalls the town’s bicentennial celebration in the late 1970s, when he and his siblings, Jace and Jodie, dressed in colonial costumes and joined in the festivities.
“I remember getting skinned up trying to catch a greased pig on the Square,” he laughed. The event was part of what became known as Lynn Stambaugh Fun Days - a blend of small-town tradition and community spirit that continues to define Celina’s identity.
“I’ve just kind of carried that over,” Jack said. “My passion is this Downtown.”
It’s a passion that didn’t start with him. It was modeled by Maxine, who believed that culture and community could thrive side by side, even in a small Texas town. Her legacy wasn’t just built with lumber and land; it was built with belief.
Maxine taught dance for 25 years out of old army barracks she had moved to her place from the old base in Sherman. She
produced live theater in Celina at the Methodist Church and participated in civic organizations like Fidelis Inter Se.
She was a force - graceful, yes, but formidable. Her family remembers her as a woman of elegance, someone who knew everyone and made sure everyone knew her. She didn’t just show up - she shaped the moment.
“She danced forever,” her family recalls. “She was teaching at Hockaday School in Dallas and said, ‘There are kids in Celina who need to learn this.’ So, she came back, opened a studio, and taught.”
But her influence didn’t stop at the studio door. Maxine once managed the old Ritz Theatre, a hub of entertainment and gathering in old-time Celina. Her love for the arts wasn’t just personal - it was purposeful. She believed Celina deserved access to beauty, expression, and shared experience, and she worked tirelessly to make that possible.
Her grandson, Jack, remembers that drive vividly: “She wanted to create a space where art, music, and community could flourish.”
Yet Maxine’s legacy wasn’t confined to stages or studios. It extended into the soil itself.
Her generosity was deeply rooted in family. Each grandchild received an acre of land when they came of age - a symbolic and literal gift of belonging.
Jack recalls receiving his acre at 14: “At that point in your life, you don’t really own much of anything. But she said, ‘No matter what happens in life, you’ve got this acre you can always go to.’ That land has always been important to me. I camped on it, brought the Boy Scouts out there - it was really in the country back then. It was awesome.”
Maxine’s commitment to Celina also reached into its schools. She donated the land that became Bobcat Field - a landmark of Friday night lights, community pride, and generational connection.
This field has hosted some of Celina’s most cherished memories and defining moments. It’s more than soil and grass - it’s sacred ground where generations of Celinites have gathered, celebrated, and grown.
Thanks to a partnership between the Ousley family, Celina ISD, and the City, that legacy continues. The acreage she gave embodies all that she loved about her town, ensuring the land remains a place of unity, tradition, and belonging.
Maxine’s gift of land to Celina ISD was never about recognition - it was about impact. She saw the field not just as a place for football, but as a space where community could gather, where memories could be made, and where the spirit of Celina could thrive.
Maxine Ousley as a dancer at age 16
Now, that same spirit is being reimagined.
Today, the old Bobcat football stadium and press box are being restored within Ousley Park, a tribute to Maxine’s forwardthinking vision for a public space where nature, creativity, and community converge - all while honoring Celina’s rich history.
Jack recalls a quiet moment of realization - one that deepened his understanding of his grandmother’s legacy.
“It’s interesting because I didn’t know, as a kid, that my grandmother had given the land for Bobcat Field,” he said. “I would’ve never known. She just gave it away and never made a big deal about it because that was just her. She loved kids, she loved animals, she loved Celina. Everything she did out here makes absolute sense because that’s who she was.”
The park is more than a redevelopment - it’s a resurrection of purpose. In addition to the Ralph O'Dell Senior Center, the Master Plan includes Bobcat Field, a deconstructed pavilion, and dog park - a nod to Maxine’s lifelong love for animalsand trails celebrating Celina's history.
Future plans for a nature walk, public art, and performance stage will honor her passion for creativity and expression. And it will sit along Doe Branch Creek, undergoing a rare stream restoration that will make it one of the most environmentally thoughtful parks in Texas.
Ousley Park may carry Maxine’s name and vision, but it reflects the spirit of an entire family - one shaped by generations of strong women and men, deep roots, and a shared belief in giving back.
Before Maxine became a cultural force in Celina, there was Mama Rooney - her mother, mentor, and muse. The love of the arts, entertainment, children, animals, and community that defined Maxine’s life was first kindled by her.
The family remembers Mama Rooney as a strong-willed socialite with a flair for elegance and a sharp opinion on just about everything.
“She always had something to say,” they recalled with a smile. “And you listened.” Mama Rooney’s influence was unmistakable, and her presence unforgettable.
She was known for hosting lively gatherings, always dressed to impress, always the life of the party. Today, her legacy lives on in delicate China tucked away in drawers - remnants of her vibrant social life and impeccable taste.
“She was very proper,” Jack said. “Always chin up. Maybe even a little scary, but a great mother.”
Dr. Ousley added, “You did exactly what she said. No questions asked.”
Mama Rooney’s blend of refinement and resolve helped shape Maxine’s worldview. She instilled in her daughter a belief that beauty mattered, that children deserved discipline and joy, and that community was something you built with intention. Her influence echoes through the generationsnot just in family traditions, but in the very fabric of Celina’s identity.
As Celina continues to grow, the Ousley family remains a steadying presence - rooted in tradition, yet open to progress. Their influence isn’t just historical; it’s ongoing, visible in the way they engage with the community, protect their land, and embrace the evolving spirit of the city.
“This is a small-town atmosphere, that’s for sure,” one family member shared. “The school ties people together. Everyone is vested and focused, and we love it. Whether it’s band, tennis, soccer, football - it’s just fun. It’s amazing to have a community that rallies around the school even as we grow.”
Julia Ousley, John’s wife of over half a century added, “You can’t stop growth and development, but you can figure out how you’ll be a part of it - and what that’s going to mean for you and your family.”
Though the Ousley’s no longer own as much farmland as they once did, they remain deeply committed to preserving what they have. Their corner of land is more than property - it’s a legacy. They’re intentional about how it’s used, ensuring it continues to honor Celina’s heritage.
“It still feels like the country,” Jack said. “It still gets quietmaybe a little later than it used to, but it’s still here.”
Rooney Graham Ousley, "Mama Rooney"
That quiet, that sense of place, is what the Ousley’s are working to protect. Their stewardship is not just about land, it’s about identity. And now, that same spirit of care and responsibility is being extended to the heart of community.
Ousley Park will be more than a tribute - it will be a continuation of that stewardship. A place where Celina can remember, and where Maxine’s vision can continue to grow. When asked what Maxine would think about the transformation of Bobcat Field into Ousley Park, and how Celina continues to evolve, the family smiled.
“She’d love it,” they said. “She might have mixed feelings about all the growth because of her deep love for family, country, and farm, but she would be proud of what Celina has become.”
In conversations with the City of Celina and Celina ISD about the future park, the Ousley family found a shared sense of purpose.
“This is exactly what she would have wanted if the land ever reverted back to us,” they said. “And when it did, the decision to return it to the community just felt right.”
WANT MORE ON THE OUSLEY FAMILY LEGACY?
The City and the School District didn’t just listen - they embraced the Ousley family’s vision.
They honored the history, and they’re helping carry it forward.
The family recalled how Maxine loved Friday night football games, often walking over from the house to watch the lights come on and the town come alive.
“I’ll always remember that place lit up,” one family member said.
It was more than a field - it was a gathering place. And now, thanks to the City and school district, it will continue to be a gathering place for generations to come.
In the laughter of children at the playground, in the rhythm of players on the pickleball courts, in the quiet rustle of native grasses along Doe Branch Creek - Maxine’s legacy will live on.
It’s a legacy of love, land, and lasting impact.
And it’s one Celina will carry forward, rooted in the spirit of the Ousley family - stewards of the past, and guides for what’s next.
Tune into the video podcast where we sit down with Dr. Ousley and his two sons, Jack and Jace, on the Life Connected. Podcast. We dive into their family’s history in Celina and what they hope to accomplish with the new Ousley Park in Celina. Tune in anywhere you get your podcasts or by scanning the QR code. Podcasts can always be found on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube as well.
Maxine Ousley
Dr. Jon Sergei and Julia Ousley
Jack and Vivianne Ousley Jace Ousley with sons Eli, Dylan and Isaac
Blue Santa and Fire Santa: A Holiday Tradition in Celina
The Blue Santa program embodies the spirit of giving, especially during the Christmas season, by offering the Celina community an opportunity to come together to support local children in need. Many families within our community face challenges during the holidays, and through the generosity of our residents, this program brings joy and relief to those less fortunate.
In collaboration with Celina ISD teachers, counselors, and the Celina Police Department, children in need are identified, and their specific holiday wishes are compiled into a list. This list is then provided to the Celina Police Department, which in turn shares the information with the broader Celina community. The success of Blue Santa depends on the involvement and care of our residents, who adopt families and help fulfill their Christmas wishes.
By participating in the Blue Santa program, you are making a meaningful difference in the lives of these children and their families. Though you may never meet them, your contribution ensures they can experience the joy of Christmas. Families available for adoption will be listed in November, and it is through your generosity that this program continues to spread the spirit of hope and community.
Fire Santa is making his highly-anticipated return to Celina, bringing joy to neighborhoods across the city! Riding atop one of Celina’s Fire Trucks, Santa will be waving to children and families as he makes his way through various streets, spreading holiday cheer and excitement. This cherished annual tradition allows residents to see Santa up close while celebrating the holiday season in a unique and festive way.
The Celina Fire Department is proud to continue this special event, which has become a beloved part of the community’s holiday celebrations. Children are encouraged to keep an eye out for Fire Santa as he passes by, offering a magical moment for all ages to enjoy. His journey through the neighborhoods will be an unforgettable experience, bringing smiles and warmth during the colder months.
To ensure you don’t miss Fire Santa, follow the Celina Fire Department on social media. They will post updates and schedules, letting everyone know when Fire Santa will visit specific neighborhoods. Stay connected, and get ready for a festive visit from Santa as he rides through Celina once again!
BLUE SANTA PROGRAM
FIRE SANTA
SCAN
SCAN
Celina Police Department: Crime Victim’s Assistance Program
The Celina Police Department enhances the Crime Victim’s Assistance Program, assisting residents in time of need.
The Celina Crime Victim’s Assistance Program is dedicated to providing services to crime victims and their families. Our goal is to reduce the short- and long-term effects relating to the traumatic experiences of being a victim of a violent crime.
Services Provided:
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Crisis intervention with victims and their families
Criminal Justice Support: Criminal justice system information, status of case information, arrest notification, court accompaniment, and assistance with a protective order
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Information and referral to local social service providers, financial assistance and counseling
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Notification and assistance in filing for Crime Victims’ Compensation
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Assistance with evidence return
Personal advocacy and safety planning
Relocation resources and referrals for emergency shelters
Areas of Help:
Celina Police Department’s Crime Victim’s Assistance Program covers information and resources for the following:
• Rights of Crime Victims
• Sexual Assault
• Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)
• Protective Orders
• Crime Victims’ Compensation (CVC)
• Grief & Suicide
• Local Resources
For more information on the Crime Victim’s Assistance Program and a full list of resources, please visit celina-tx. gov/1938/crime-victims-assistance.
• SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE PROGRAM
Participation in community outreach and education
For immediate assistance, the Celina Police Department can be reached at (972) 382-2121, and for emergencies, always call 9-1-1. The Crime Victim’s Assistance Program stands as a testament to Celina’s “Life Connected.” philosophy, providing a crucial safety net and a path to healing for every member of the community.
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CELINA P OLICE DEP A RTMENTSPOTLIGHT
Traffic Division
Engineering
The Celina Police Department is adapting to meet the challenges of a growing community. The mission of the Traffic Division is to reduce collisions and keep motorists safe through Engineering, Education, and Enforcement. This team uses a data-driven approach to focus enforcement efforts on areas with high accident rates or traffic violations. Officers work closely with City engineers to monitor vehicle accidents and data, helping to identify problematic areas. They are also dedicated to educating drivers on traffic laws and hazards to improve driving behaviors and raise awareness.
The Traffic Division works closely with City engineers to monitor vehicle accidents and traffic data. This collaboration focuses on creating the safest and most effective transportation routes for residents. By collecting accurate data on problematic areas and hazardous road conditions, they help engineers allocate resources for road improvements and the appropriate designation of traffic control signals and devices.
Education
The Traffic Division is dedicated to educating drivers on traffic laws and road hazards. The goal is to increase traffic safety, improve driving behaviors, and raise awareness across the community.
Enforcement
Utilizing traffic-related data, officers can focus enforcement efforts on areas with high accident rates or a prevalence of traffic violations. This strategic approach ensures the City is addressing the most critical safety issues on its roads.
Motor Unit
A defining milestone for the Traffic Division was the introduction of a dedicated unit featuring two advanced BMW R 1250 RT-P motorcycles in the fall of 2023. These cutting-edge vehicles, known for their agility and rapid response capabilities, enable our officers to navigate traffic efficiently for prompt emergency responses and accident scene management. The motorcycles also serve as a symbol of community engagement, allowing officers to build deeper connections with residents and promote road safety consciousness.
Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (CVE)
Celina Police Department Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Unit is a specially-trained unit. Officers are trained by the Texas Department of Public Safety and are certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. CVE officers are very involved in safety programs, such as the DFW Council of Safety Professionals and the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance. Officers in CVE are housed within the Traffic Division where they assist with investigating a commercial vehicle crash which involves serious bodily injury and death.
To learn more about the Traffic Division or to report a traffic concern, visit celina-tx.gov/1953/traffic-division or scan the QR code. Additionally, you can find more information on the Neighborhood Traffic Management Policy, which encourages safety, accessibility, and quality of life in residential areas througout the city.
THE THREE PILLARS OF TRAFFIC SAFETY:
Celina Fire Department: Severe Weather Facts & Checklist
As fall weather arrives, so does the risk of severe storms. The Celina Fire Department helps you stay safe with a clear guide on tornado watches versus warnings and an essential checklist to prepare your home and family.
Tornado Watch vs. Tornado Warning
•
• TORNADO WATCH
Conditions are right for tornadoes
Stay alert, review your plan, and be ready to move quickly
•
• TORNADO WARNING
A tornado has been spotted or indicated by radar
Take shelter immediately in a basement, storm shelter, or interior room on the lowest floor
QUICK SAFETY CHECKLIST
Know your safe place
Have a family plan
Keep an emergency kit ready
Sign up for Everbridge
KEEP UP WITH CELINA
Everbridge: Emergency Notifications
The City of Celina has an emergency notification system for residents to sign up for in order to be notified in case of an emergency event. This is not a real-time alerting system.
This phone and email system is designed to provide emergency messages to you quickly and effectively, should a need arise. You can include several locations in the City of Celina to receive notifications for your home, workplace, schools, and more.
When an emergency or disaster event occurs, authorized City of Celina personnel can notify you using this community alert system.
This does NOT preclude you from calling 9-1-1 for your emergency requests; it simply provides a means to disseminate critical information to the public via a mass notification system when the need arises.
How to Prepare for Severe Weather
DID YOU KNOW?
Lightning causes the most deaths during severe weather so it’s important when you hear thunder to go indoors and seek more information.
Residents without Internet access may call the Celina Fire Department at (972) 382-2653 for registration assistance.
With North Texas’s severe weather season approaching, the Celina Fire Department reminds residents of the importance of being prepared. While the unpredictability of storms can be unsettling, having a plan in place can make all the difference in keeping your family and property safe.
A key first step is to assemble and update your emergency supplies. This includes stocking up on non-perishable food, water, batteries, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit. It’s also crucial to have a comprehensive emergency plan that all family members understand, including designated meeting spots and communication methods.
To protect your home, consider taking steps like securing outdoor furniture and trimming trees near your house. Ensure you have your property and important documents, such as insurance policies and birth certificates, safely stored or backed up. Signing up for local alerts and warnings is essential to stay informed in real-time. The City of Celina’s Office of Emergency Management provides alerts that can be critical during a rapidly developing weather event.
Beyond individual preparation, the Celina Fire Department encourages residents to engage with their community. Practicing emergency drills and planning with your neighbors can create a network of support, ensuring everyone is accounted for and safe. By taking these proactive steps now, you can face the upcoming storm season with confidence and peace of mind.
Celina’s Boards & Commissions Banquet
Celina honors the dedicated volunteers of its Boards & Commissions, whose invaluable service and leadership are shaping the City’s future.
In September, the City of Celina came together to celebrate the dedication and service of our Boards & Commissions members with a special banquet honoring their contributions. The evening recognized the invaluable role these individuals play in shaping the vision and growth of our community, offering their expertise, insight, and leadership to guide key decisions that impact residents and the City’s future. Among the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Member of the Year award to Clint Bissett (Celina EDC Board Member), whose exceptional commitment and impact exemplify the spirit of service that defines our Boards & Commissions.
The banquet also provided an opportunity to honor members who have completed their terms, acknowledging the time, effort, and thoughtful engagement they have devoted to the betterment of the City. These volunteers serve as the backbone of civic engagement, ensuring that City initiatives reflect the needs and aspirations of the community. Through their dedication, experience, and collaborative spirit, our Boards & Commissions continue to play a critical role in shaping policies, fostering community growth, and strengthening the foundation of our City for generations to come.
Life Connected. Podcast
Discover a deeper look into the stories that shape Celina through the new video podcast, offering a dynamic and immersive way to connect with the people and places that make our community unique.
Last year, we launched a video podcast component of the Life Connected. Podcast, allowing residents to watch insightful conversations unfold. Each episode aligns with Life Connected. Magazine, offering an extended look into the feature stories that define our community. Through this multimedia approach, we are not just informing residents - we are creating a deeper connection to the people, places, and initiatives that shape Celina.
A Legacy in Motion: Press Box at Old Bobcat Stadium
The historic press box at Celina’s Bobcat Field, a “sentinel” of the town’s football story, is now being preserved for the Ousley Park development. This iconic structure, which witnessed a football dynasty that included a state-record eight championships and a 68-game winning streak, will serve as a living monument to the community’s values and its rich football heritage. The press box — a “labor of love” built by the community — will be a reminder of Celina’s past as the City forges its future.
Corbett Howard: From Small Town Roots to Big City Vision
In this episode of Life Connected. Podcast, “Corbett Howard: From Small Town Roots to Big City Vision,” we sit down with former Celina Mayor Corbett Howard to discuss his remarkable journey. We trace his early involvement in public service after moving to Celina, and how that commitment guided his tenure as Mayor.
Downtown Stories: Hey Sugar
In this episode of the Life Connected. Podcast, we’re taking a stroll down memory lane to explore the history behind one of our beloved Downtown spots - Hey Sugar! Before it was serving up sweet treats, this building had a very different story to tell. Check out the video to learn about the rich history hiding behind those colorful walls!
Cultivating Growth, Honoring Our Roots
Join us as we sit down with Anthony Satarino, Director of the Celina Economic Development Corporation, to explore the exciting expansion transforming our beloved city. Discover the innovative strategies driving Celina’s rapid growth while learning how the community is passionately committed to preserving the rich heritage and small-town charm that makes Celina truly unique. It’s the story of progress rooted in tradition.
WATCH THE
CITY OF CELINA
Get Ready to Play, Celina!
The Parks & Recreation Department is excited to announce a new season of fitness and recreation classes while celebrating the growth of multiple park projects, bringing residents together in the joy of play.
Get ready to play, Celina! The Parks & Recreation Department is excited to announce a new season of fitness and recreation classes, designed to get you moving and connect you with your community.
As our City grows, so do our opportunities for outdoor fun. We’re celebrating the progress of several park projects, with new spaces in various stages of development — from the drawing board to grand openings. These new parks and facilities reflect our commitment to providing residents with vibrant places to gather, play, and make memories.
Our fields and courts are buzzing with activity. Flag football, soccer, volleyball, and adult kickball leagues are in full swing, bringing our community together through friendly competition and shared love for the game. As these seasons wind down, we're excited to announce the return of winter basketball, an opportunity for kids to connect with friends, and channel their energy into both competitive and friendly play. Our leagues are designed to foster teamwork, sportsmanship, and a passion for sports in an environment that is both spirited and supportive.
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Recreation Programming
Residents can sign-up for any of these classes at the following: bit.ly/CelinaRecReg or using the QR code at the bottom of the page. All fitness classes are held at the Ralph O’Dell Senior Center. Each class costs is for the full month of classes.
• Spanish for Elementary, October 21 - November 25 $60
• Spanish for Middle School, October 21 - November 25 $60
HOLIDAY EVENTS
PUMPKIN CRAFT NIGHT
October 23 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM $5, Ralph O’Dell Senior Center
Join us for an evening of pumpkin painting and carving. Pumpkins, paints, stickers, and other pumpkin decor provided.
TURKEY SHOOT
November 18 from 5:30 - 7:30 PM Free, Founders Park
Join us for a fun and festive free throw competition! Participants will test their basketball shooting skills for a chance to win a Thanksgiving turkey. Bring your best shot and see if you can take home the prize!
BREAKFAST WITH THE YETI!
December 13 from 9:00 - 11:00 AM $10, Ralph O’Dell Senior Center
Join us for a morning of winter wonder and holiday cheer with the Yeti! Fun for all ages! Don't miss out on this magical morning!
PLAYWELL LEGO ENGINEERING
THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE WORKSHOP
November 15 from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM $40 , Ralph O’Dell Senior Center
Join us this Fall as we fashion our very own LEGO® Thanksgiving Day Parade, inspired by the iconic event! Participants will design and build their own parade floats using LEGO® while learning important engineering concepts and exploring their creativity along the way. This workshop wouldn't be complete without a parade through our very own LEGO® city so grab your spot along the parade route now!
WINTER WONDERLAND WORKSHOP
December 19 from 4:00 - 7:00 PM $40, Ralph O’Dell Senior Center
In this workshop we will apply engineering, architecture, creativity and fun to create a magical Winter Wonderland! Build motorized contraptions like snowmobiles, gondolas, or a hilltop village, slopes for LEGO skiers and sledders.
Progress Continues with Parks & Recreation Developments & Expansions
a display in the new Parks Administration Building that will pay tribute to the original use of the building.
We’re thrilled to share exciting news about the upcoming Parks Administration Building within Ousley Park adjacent to Celina’s historic Bobcat Field and the Ralph O’Dell Senior Center.
Get ready for an amazing new facility designed for everyone. The Parks Administration Building will include recreational opportunities for the public including:
· Fitness & Exercise program spaces
· Large multi-purpose spaces for education, dance, martial arts, and group training
· Arts & Crafts/activity space for all ages
· Celina’s very first Esports facility
· Convenient conference room space
Remodeling of the previous Bobcat Fieldhouse began with renovation and construction expected to take about one year. Remodeling will include removing interior and exterior walls, and flooring. Good news – the Ralph O’Dell Senior Center will remain open, with careful coordination to minimize disruption.
We’re not just building for the future; we’re preserving our rich football heritage. The existing structural metal building framing will remain, with a new exterior to match the Ralph O’Dell Senior Center and meet current building codes. The existing support metal I-beams will remain in place as the support structure for the new, remodeled facility.
Plus, the Bobcat Field history and heritage will be celebrated with a large exterior mural and interior art. There will also be
This project truly embodies a thoughtful balance between progress and tradition, ensuring newcomers understand the deep roots and history that make Celina special. For visitors to the future Downtown park, the preserved press box will stand as a physical reminder of the values that built Celina: community cooperation, dedication to excellence, and pride in shared accomplishments. In the future, new bleachers will be installed on the home side of the stadium to provide spectators with prime seating at this historic field.
City Manager Robert Ranc said, “Celina’s history is inseparable from the legacy of Bobcat Football - a tradition that has united this community for generations. As we continue to grow, it’s important that we honor the moments and places that shaped who we are. Preserving the original football field and press box at Ousley Park is more than a nod to the past - it’s a tribute to the pride, spirit, and shared experiences that define Celina. The press box will stand as a lasting symbol of that heritage, reminding us where we’ve been as we look ahead to where we’re going.”
Stay tuned for updates as we build the future of play while honoring the glory of the Bobcat Legacy.
The new playground at Old Celina Park is officially open, offering families a vibrant space to play, explore, and connect. This farm-themed playground brings a fresh, imaginative a fresh, imaginative element to the community, designed to inspire creativity while providing
OUSLEY PARK FUTURE PLANS
OLD CELINA PARK PLAYGROUND
a safe and engaging environment for children of all ages.
Spanning a thoughtfully designed area, the playground features slides, swings, climbing structures, and interactive elements that reflect a playful barnyard theme. Children can navigate colorful play equipment, explore imaginative scenarios, and engage in active play that promotes both physical development and social interaction. Shaded seating areas and open lawns offer comfortable spaces for parents, caregivers, and families to relax while enjoying the park’s amenities.
Old Celina Park’s new playground is more than just a place for fun - it is a space that encourages families and neighbors to gather, strengthening community connections. Its design prioritizes accessibility, ensuring that children of varying abilities can enjoy the play structures safely.
The open green spaces surrounding the playground also provide opportunities for picnics, games, and community activities, making the park a versatile destination for recreation and leisure. City leaders and staff have long emphasized the importance of public spaces that enhance quality of life, and the new playground at Old Celina Park is a reflection of that commitment. By combining safety, creativity, and community-focused design, the playground offers an environment where children can explore, imagine, and grow.
As the playground opens its gates to the public, families now have a dedicated destination to gather, play, and make lasting memories. Old Celina Park’s new playground stands as a testament to the City’s dedication to creating vibrant, welcoming spaces that promote wellness, community engagement, and joyful experiences for residents of all ages.
On September 3rd, community members and City employees gathered to commemorate the groundbreaking at Wilson Creek Park Phase I, which is set to become one of Celina’s premier destinations for recreation and community gatherings. Phase I spans approximately 30 acres, with full park construction spanning nearly 100 acres at the corner of the future Sunset Blvd and Roseland Pkwy. This is just the beginning of what will soon be Celina’s next great park - a place where families, friends, and neighbors can come together to enjoy the outdoors, celebrate community, and make lasting memories.
WILSON CREEK PARK GROUNDBREAKING
IMA G I N E , EXPLORE, DI S C OVER , LEARN
Fall into Fun: Your Guide to a Season of Community and Connection
FALL
& WINTER PROGRAMS & EVENTS
We’re kicking off the fun with a special Pumpkin Painting Party on Wednesday, October 22, from 3:00 - 5:00 PM. Sponsored by the Friends of the Celina Public Library, this event at the gazebo on the Square is first-come, first-served for the first 100 artists. You can paint a pumpkin to take home or enter it into the Pumpkin Contest at Beware! of the Square on October 25.
Our popular On the Same Page Book Club returns with a new lineup of titles. Join us to discuss Mink River by Brian Doyle in October, Grace of the Empire State by Gemma Tizzard in November, and The Antidote by Karen Russell in December.
We invite you to explore our regular programming, including Toddler Tuesdays, Baby Storytime, and Weekly Storytime, all designed to foster a love of reading from a young age.
THE BOOKMOBILE IS BACK ON THE ROAD!
Good news — the Bookmobile is launching its fall and winter routes, bringing a mobile collection of books and activity kits right to your neighborhood. Check out the full schedule of stops on our website at Celina-tx.gov/Library, and be sure to stop by to explore our specially curated titles and connect with new faces in the community!
Please join us for PUMPKIN PAINTING
PARTY
Wednesday, October 22 from 3:00 - 5:00 PM
Located on Celina’s Downtown Square Free supplies for the first 100 artists
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TODDLER TUESDAY
Tuesdays, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM | Library | 18 months - 3 years
Dance, shake up egg shakers, and play with the beloved parachute - all to get those toddlers moving!
BABY STORYTIME
Wednesdays, 10:30 - 11:30 AM | Library
Bring your little ones (up to 18 months) to our weekly Baby Storytime. An easy way to socialize your baby, help them recognize colors, and work on hand-eye coordination. We’ll work on gentle lap play, tickles, building memory, motion, and vocabulary skills.
TEEN GAMING
Wednesdays, 5:30 PM | Library
Teens join us in the early evening with their choice of board games or Super Smash Bros on our Game Cube. Only this time: it’s tournament style!
POKÉMON CARD TRADING
Thursdays, 3:30 - 5:30 PM | Library
Are you interested in showing other trainers your collection, or even trading cards? Join us each week and bring your Pokémon cards.
STORYTIME
Fridays, 10:30 - 11:30 AM | Council Chambers
Kids of all ages gather to listen to stories, dance, play, and create a themed craft.
ON THE SAME PAGE BOOK CLUB
OCTOBER’S READ
Inspired by classic works of fiction, this stunning debut novel paints a vivid and whimsical portrait of a small Oregon town. The story weaves together the lives of its quirky inhabitants, filled with a mix of everyday humor, smalltown drama, and the beautiful, messy details of life.
LEGO BUILDING HOUR
Thursday, October 16, November 20 & December18 | 10:3011:30 AM Library
Kids of all ages join to make a friend, make a scene, create a building, and have some fun!
On the Same Page is an adults-only Book Club that meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 10 AM in the Celina Public Library.
NOVEMBER’S
Grace of the Empire State by Gemma Tizzard
READ
After her brother’s injury, a talented dancer must take his place as a riveter high atop the Empire State Building to support her family during the Great Depression. Disguised as a man, she must find the courage to face incredible danger and a life-altering choice to save a colleague.
DECEMBER’S READ
The Antidote by Karen Russell
Following a catastrophic dust storm, this epic novel intertwines the lives of five characters in a collapsing Nebraskan town during the Great Depression. The story delves into themes of historical violence, offering a commentary on past and present environmental crises.
Mink River by Brian Doyle
Shop Local This Season: Celina Holiday Passport Program
The holiday season in Celina is always special, and this year, the Celina EDC is bringing back the Holiday Passport Program to make shopping local even more rewarding.
From Small Business Saturday, November 29, through Monday, December 15, residents and visitors can pick up a Celina Holiday Passport and explore participating local businesses. Each time you shop, dine, or enjoy a Celina experience, you will receive a stamp on your passport. The more stamps you collect, the greater your chances of winning gift cards to local businesses just in time for holiday giving or treating yourself!
The program supports our small businesses during one of the busiest shopping times of the year and introduces shoppers to the wide variety of retailers, restaurants, and service providers in Celina.
How it works:
Pick up your Celina Holiday Passport at participating businesses or the EDC Office. Shop and collect stamps between November 29December 15.
Submit your completed passport for a chance to win gift cards to Celina businesses.
Whether you are looking for the perfect holiday gift, a festive meal, or a unique Celina experience, the Holiday Passport is your ticket to discovering the best of our community.
This program is a preview of the expanded Passport activities that will be part of Celina’s 150th Anniversary Celebration in 2026. By shopping local this holiday season, you are not only giving gifts you are giving back to the community.
New Businesses in 2025
7Brew Coffee (4525 S. Preston Rd)
Alliance Primary Care (1050 S. Preston Rd)
Amavi Wilson Creek Amenity Center (1513 Mill Creek Way)
A.R.T. (245 S. Preston Rd)
Bobcat Automotive (1922 Choate Pkwy, #146)
Brakes Plus (4345 S. Preston Rd)
Chalk Hill Amenity Restroom (3901 Kylee)
Children’s Light House Daycare (3520 S. Dallas Pkwy)
Cilantro Taco (1470 W. Frontier Pkwy, #100)
Clean Freak Carwash (1520 W. Frontier Pkwy)
CTC at Cross Creek Meadows (1320 Old Glendenning Rd)
Cybverve Consulting (721 E. Pecan St)
C3 Aesthetics & Wellness (2750 S. Preston Rd)
Green Meadow Daycare (5570 Martin Dr)
Harper Agency (701 N. Preston Rd, #320)
Khun Nye Thai (1440 W. Frontier Pkwy, #114)
Legacy Birth Center (701 N. Preston Rd, #200)
Local Drive Collective (501 W. Walnut St)
Lois Head Spa (590 W. Frontier Pkwy, #140)
Manhattan Beauty Project (1470 W. Frontier Pkwy, #104)
McNeal Orthodontics (515 S. Preston Rd, #120)
Methodist Celina Medical Center (1500 S. Dallas Pkwy)
Nritya Inc (1050 S. Preston Rd)
Parks at Wilson Creek Amenity Center (2601 Lafayette Dr)
PISD Elementary #20 Mosaic (4600 Lamplights Dr)
SafeSplash Swim School (1590 W. Frontier Pkwy)
Shipley Do-Nuts (1440 W. Frontier Pkwy, #112)
Smoothie Factory (1470 W. Frontier Pkwy, #102)
SOK Dental (235 S. Preston Rd)
South State Bank (290 S. Preston Rd)
Spitz Mediterranean (1470 W. Frontier Pkwy, #108)
The Silos (300 N. Oklahoma Dr)
Voodoo Brewing Company (1400 W. Frontier Pkwy)
“In the Know” Features
In 2023, the City of Celina launched the “In the Know” video series, an initiative designed to improve communication with residents and provide timely updates on key aspects of City operations. These short and engaging videos offer a comprehensive look at the services and functions that make up the foundation of Celina, from public safety and infrastructure to local history and community programs. By providing clear, accessible content on a wide variety of topics, the series aims to keep residents informed and engaged with the ongoing work of their local government.
The “In the Know” series not only serves as an informative resource but also strengthens the bond between Celina’s leadership and its residents. With transparency as a core value, the series ensures that important City updates, initiatives, and developments reach a broad audience in an easily digestible format. Through these videos, residents gain a deeper understanding of how their City operates, fostering a stronger sense of community and collaboration. This initiative ultimately supports informed decision-making and encourages greater involvement in shaping the future of Celina.
ONLINE PAYMENT PORTAL
There is a new way to pay your bill with the Utility Billing Payment Portal. While you can always visit City Hall in person to make a payment, this online tool is available 24/7, and provides powerful account management tools where you can view your full payment history and track account activity over time. This tool helps you to stay informed about your utility usage and help manage your household finances.
EDC: EVENTS
Celina has more than 25 events that bring thousands of people down to the historic square. Celina Cajun Fest, Beware! of the Square, Christmas on the Square, Movie Night and Friday Night Markets are just a few. These events are a driving force for our community that fuel the local economy, foster community connection, and build trust with local businesses.These events are more than entertainment; they are an investment into business, our community and our future.
EDC: BIG BOX RETAILERS
Big box retailers generate sales tax revenue that is reinvested back into the community through infrastruture improvements, economic development projects, and service projects. That's done through grants and other redevelopment projects. These grant programs, like the Facade and Property Improvement Grant that go towards lighting, signage and more, are a trickle down effect from big box retails to small businesses. SCAN TO WATCH THE VIDEO
EDC: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PERFORMANCE AGREEMENT
The Economic Development Performance Agreement is a formal contract between the EDC and a developer that outlines the terms, responsibilities, incentives, and obligations of both parties. It's a strategic partnership that aligns the goals of public and private sectors to create an impatful development. The agreement ensures the partnership will bring community benefits like more jobs, better amenities, and higher property values.
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CALENDAR
OCTOBER, NOVEMBER EVENT
10/3: CELINA Friday Night Market | 6:00 - 9:00 PM
Celina’s Downtown Square
Join us in Celina’s Downtown Square for Celina Friday Night Market presented by Patio Enclosures for an evening filled with community spirit, local shopping, delicious food, and live entertainment. Stroll through a vibrant marketplace featuring a fantastic variety of vendors offering homemade, handmade, and homegrown goods - perfect for finding something special while supporting local businesses.
Enjoy the festive atmosphere as you savor incredible flavors from local eateries and take in the sounds of live music, with this month’s featured performer, Matt Bell, on the Methodist Celina Medical Center stage. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with neighbors, shop local, and celebrate the heart of Celina. #ShopLocal and see you at the Square!
The Public Works Department will host its final Clean Sweep event of the year, inviting residents to bring bulk trash, household hazardous waste items, and more for disposal. This event is open to all Celina residents with proof of residency. Participants are encouraged to check the City of Celina’s social media channels for a complete list of acceptable and non-acceptable items. This initiative aims to facilitate responsible waste disposal and promote community cleanliness.
celina-tx.gov/cleansweep
10/7: NATIONAL NIGHT OUT | 6:00 - 9:00 PM
Celina’s Downtown Square
On the first Tuesday of October, the Celina Police Department will host its annual National Night Out, a complimentary event designed to strengthen police-community relationships. While similar events will take place throughout various neighborhoods in the City, the Celina Police Department will proudly organize the largest block party on the Downtown Square.
lifeincelinatx.com/nno
10/10: CELINA ISD HOMECOMING PARADE | 9:00 AM
Celina’s Downtown Square
Join us in celebrating Bobcat Pride at the annual Celina ISD Homecoming Parade, which will commence at 9:00 AM on the Downtown Square. This vibrant parade will showcase an array of floats featuring our youngest athletes and cheerleaders, alongside our current Bobcat football players and cheerleaders. This cherished tradition promises to be a highlight of the season and is an event not to be missed in Downtown Celina.
10/11: CELINA OKTOBERFEST | 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Entertainment District
The annual Celina Oktoberfest is a vibrant celebration of German culture infused with a distinctive Texas flair. Presented by the Celina Chamber of Commerce, this event offers attendees the opportunity to savor authentic cuisine, an extensive selection of imported and locally brewed craft beers, live music, dancing, contests, and much more.
celinaoktoberfest.com
10/14: CITY COUNCIL MEETING | 5:00 PM
City Council Chambers
Celina City Council Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each
month. Executive Session begins at 5:00 PM, followed by the Regular Session at 6:30 PM. Meetings occur in the City Council Chambers, which is located at 112 N Colorado St. All City Council Meetings are live-streamed and recorded for public access.
celina-tx.gov/citycouncil
10/25: BEWARE! OF THE SQUARE | 4:00 - 9:00 PM
Celina’s Downtown Square
Beware! of the Square presented by Sinacola attracts thousands of zombies, superheroes, princesses, and anime characters to the Downtown Square for a thrilling and festive event. Discover why Beware! of the Square is Celina's spookiest event of the year, featuring a haunted house, trick-or-treating, kids’ zone, live entertainment, and much more. Join us for an unforgettable celebration that promises fun for the entire community.
lifeincelinatx.com/beware
11/7: CELINA Friday Night Market | 6:00 - 9:00 PM
Celina’s Downtown Square
Celina Friday Night Market, presented by Patio Enclosures, is a great way to get outside, shop locally, eat delicious food, and listen to live music – all held in Celina’s historic Downtown Square. Celina Friday Night Market features a fantastic variety of vendors with something for everyone. Make sure to #ShopLocal and support our homemade, handmade, and homegrown vendors. Justin Till will be November’s musical guest on the Methodist Celina Medical Center stage.
lifeincelinatx.com/fnm
11/8: LIFE CONNECTED. SERVICE DAY | 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Celina’s Downtown Square
The City of Celina is dedicated to strengthening our community through service, connection, and neighborly support. Life Connected. Service Day is a one-day event designed to bring volunteers together to assist residents in need of home maintenance and repairs. By fostering meaningful relationships and giving back, this initiative exemplifies Celina’s commitment to building a stronger, more connected community. You can volunteer with a group or sign up as an individual.
celina-tx.gov/1535/life-connected-service-day
11/11: POLICE DEPARTMENT RUCK MARCH | 8:30 AM
Old Celina Park
The Celina Police Department is proud to host its second annual Veterans Day Ruck March, a complimentary event open to the entire community.
NOVEMBER & DECEMBER
We encourage participants to join our officers by filling their rucksacks with a weight of their choice or simply walking alongside us. The threemile route will be led by Chief Cullison, setting a pace of 15 minutes per mile, with officers available along the course to support those who prefer a more relaxed pace.
runsignup.com/race/tx/celina/veteransdayruckmarch
11/11: CITY COUNCIL MEETING | 5:00 PM
City Council Chambers
Celina City Council Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month. Executive Session begins at 5:00 PM, followed by the Regular Session at 6:30 PM. Meetings occur in the City Council Chambers, which is located at 112 N Colorado St. All City Council Meetings are live-streamed and recorded for public access.
celina-tx.gov/citycouncil
11/15: TROUBADOUR FESTIVAL | 12:00 - 11:30 PM
Old Celina Park
The Troubadour Festival is a multi-location Texas BBQ and music festival that honors the tradition of the traveling songwriter and showcases the state’s renowned BBQ scene. This year, the festival will feature over 40 of the finest and most celebrated BBQ joints from across Texas. Additionally, attendees can look forward to an exceptional musical lineup, including performances by Clay Walker, Braxton Keith, Randall King, Cody Canada, Silverada, among others.
troubadourfestival.com
11/27: TURKEY TROT | 8:00 AM
Celina’s Downtown Square
The Celina Turkey Trot offers more than just a race; it celebrates community spirit, featuring music, running, and awards for the entire family. Participants are encouraged to dress in their favorite Thanksgiving-themed costumes and create lasting memories. Join us in Celina for Thanksgiving Day festivities, including a 5K and a 1-Mile Family Fun Run/Walk, to kick off a day of tradition. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Lovepacs, an organization dedicated to engaging communities in feeding children in need as an expression of love.
Sleigh bells are ringing — are you listening? Join us for Christmas on the Square presented by Speciality Land Services, LLC - a delightful, familyfriendly Christmas celebration that brings the charm of a hometown holiday, much like a scene from a Hallmark movie. This free event offers a magical tree-lighting ceremony, an opportunity to meet Santa’s reindeer, and a chance for children to create crafts in Santa’s workshop. Enjoy live performances by local talent, and don’t miss the special meet-and-greet with Santa himself, creating memories to cherish for years to come.
lifeincelinatx.com/christmas-on-the-square-2025
12/6: CELINA GIFT TOUR | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Celina’s Downtown Square
The Celina Chamber of Commerce warmly invites you to embrace the holiday spirit by participating in our annual Celina Gift Tour. On the day of this festive event, attendees will receive a complimentary holiday shopping bag and a map of all participating stores in Downtown Celina.
Each store will offer a unique gift to enrich your shopping experience, complemented by refreshments as you select thoughtful presents for your loved ones. Please stay connected with us through our social media channels for updates on ticket sales. Due to high demand, tickets are expected to sell out quickly, so mark your calendars to secure your purchase. A limit of two tickets per transaction will be enforced.
bit.ly/CelinaGiftTour
12/9: CITY COUNCIL MEETING | 5:00 PM
City Council Chambers
Celina City Council Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month. Executive Session begins at 5:00 PM, followed by the Regular Session at 6:30 PM. Meetings occur in the City Council Chambers, which is located at 112 N Colorado St. All City Council Meetings are live-streamed and recorded for public access.
celina-tx.gov/citycouncil
12/13: PHOTOS WITH SANTA’S REINSTEER | 11:00 AM -2:00PM
Celina's Downtown Square
Join us on the historic Downtown Square for a festive opportunity to take complimentary professional photos with Santa’s favorite reinsteer. Capture the magic of the season with the beautifully decorated Downtown Christmas Tree as your backdrop. This special event offers a unique holiday experience for the entire family.
12/20: PHOTOS WITH SANTA | 11 AM - 1 PM
Celina's Downtown Square
Join us on the historic Downtown Square for a festive opportunity to meet Old Saint Nick. Enjoy complimentary professional photos taken in front of the beautifully adorned Downtown Christmas Tree. This special event captures the magic of the holiday season in Celina’s charming hometown setting.
12/1-12/24: COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS
Various Locations
Celebrate the season with us as Countdown to Christmas presented by Texas Home & Land brings a festive atmosphere every day in December. Join us for a month-long celebration where each day reveals a new and exciting activity, spreading joy and holiday cheer throughout the community. Follow our social media channels to discover the daily surprises we have in store.
lifeincelinatx.com/countdown-to-christmas-2025
From Locker Room to Legacy
The Historic
Fieldhouse of Bobcat Field Begins a New Chapter for Parks & Recreation
In shadow of one of the most sacred shrines in all of Texas high school football history, another structure at Celina’s historic Bobcat Field is quietly undergoing its own remarkable transformation. The old fieldhouse - once the beating heart of a dynasty, the unsightly sanctuary where champions were forged and legends were born - has found new purpose as the City of Celina’s Parks & Recreation Administration Building, ensuring that this hallowed ground continues to serve the community that built it with their own hands and sustained it with their unwavering devotion.
For generations, this unassuming metal building served as far more than a simple locker room facility. Within its walls, state championship teams prepared for battle, heard the pregame speeches that would steel their resolve, and felt the weight of tradition that came with wearing the Celina Bobcat uniform. It was here that three of the most legendary coaches in Texas high school football history - G.A. Moore, Butch Ford, and Bill Elliott - shaped not just football players, but young men who would carry the lessons learned in that building throughout their lives.
Current Celina Bobcats Head Football Coach Bill Elliott fondly recalls the decades he worked from that structure, “That fieldhouse behind the old stadium holds so many rich memories for generations of Celina Bobcats. I am thrilled to know that the City is repurposing those spaces because it truly honors the history, the teams, and the student-athletes who fought so hard and gave so much to create the legacy of winning that we have grown to love in Celina.”
“From that old metal building, countless teams busted out the door to go onto the field of competition. In those meeting rooms, plays and preparations were developed that would make or break a critical game. In that weight room, athletes trained and paid the price in preparing for championship seasons. In that space, players learned life lessons, developed character, and experienced the immeasurable joys of winning and the agonizing pains of defeat. By reimagining that fieldhouse, future generations of Celina residents will be able to see the humble home of thousands of Bobcats who worked together to build the foundation of winning for our storied hometown.”
The fieldhouse witnessed the evolution of a program that would ultimately claim the longest winning streak in Texas high school football history - 68 consecutive victories that stood as a testament to the culture of excellence that permeated every corner of that modest structure. Across its’ lifetime, all but two of Celina’s state championship teams called this building home, the lockers bearing the names that would become synonymous with small-town Texas football greatness.
Within these walls, the rituals of preparation took on an almost sacred quality. Players dressed methodically in the same stalls where their older brothers and other relatives and friends had once donned the orange and white. They heard the echoes of championship speeches that had motivated teams to heights previously unimaginable. They participated in team meetings where strategies were refined, and brotherhood was forged in the crucible of shared purpose and mutual dedication.
The old weight room, though modest by today’s standards, served as the foundation upon which championshipcaliber strength and conditioning programs were built, one repetition at a time, one season after another. The building’s makeshift training room became a place of healing and recovery, where countless injuries were tended to with the same care and attention that characterized every aspect of the Bobcat program.
From the coaches’ offices within the fieldhouse, G.A. Moore laid the groundwork for what would become one of the most successful programs in state history. Butch Ford continued that legacy, adding his own innovations and leadership philosophy that would guide multiple championship teams.
Bill Elliott brought the tradition full circle, cementing Celina’s reputation as a destination program that consistently competed at the highest levels of Texas high school football.
Reflecting recently on the time he spent at the helm of the Bobcats’ program, coaching legend Butch Ford shared his excitement for a rebirth of the complex, “Some might look at it today and think it’s a less-than-impressive structure, but I want everyone who ever enters that place to know that it is a shrine that holds lifetimes of memories for generations of Celina Bobcats.”
The building served as more than just a functional facility - it became a recruiting destination where college coaches from across the nation came to evaluate the next generation of Bobcat talent. The walls that had heard countless pregame speeches and witnessed the tears of both victory and defeat also hosted conversations that would change young men’s lives forever, as scholarship offers and college opportunities were discussed in the coaches’ offices that had become synonymous with excellence.
Cameras, too, recognized the significance of this humble structure. Tape rolled within its confines as parts of a movie about Celina football were filmed in the very spaces where real-life drama had unfolded for decades. The building’s authenticity and history provided the perfect backdrop for telling the story of small-town Texas football and the communities that live and breathe Friday night lights.
Perhaps most memorably, the fieldhouse served as a featured location in Kenny Chesney’s “Boys of Fall” music video. The weathered walls and time-worn lockers providing the visual narrative for a song that captured the essence of high school football’s impact on American culture. The building’s appearance in the video introduced Celina’s football legacy to audiences far beyond the borders of Texas, showcasing to the world the authentic spirit of small-town football tradition. But the most sacred moments occurred in the quiet minutes before kickoff, when players would make their final preparations before running through the breezeway that connected the field house to the playing surface. That tunnel, passing beneath the historic press box, became a portal between preparation and performance, between potential and reality. Generations of Bobcats made that sprint from the locker room to the field, carrying with them the hopes of their community and the weight of the tradition that had been built one game, one season, one championship at a time.
The building bore witness to the full spectrum of human emotion that defines competitive athletics. Within its walls, teams celebrated victories that would be remembered for generations, their joyous voices echoing off lockers that had housed the equipment of champions. It also absorbed the quiet disappointment of rare defeats, providing a space for reflection and renewal that would fuel the drive toward future success.
As Celina evolved from a small farming community into one of the country's fastest-growing cities, the question of what to do with the historic fieldhouse required careful consideration. The structure’s transformation into the City's Parks & Recreation Administration Building represents a thoughtful balance between honoring the past and serving the present needs of a growing community.
The repurposing ensures that this significant structure continues to serve Celina residents, though in a different capacity than the one for which it was originally designed. Where championship teams once prepared for battle, City staff will now coordinate recreational programs and activities that serve families throughout the community. The building’s new role maintains its connection to athletics and community engagement, ensuring that its legacy of bringing people together continues in a new form.
Several years back, the City purchased the existing 13,566-square-foot former fieldhouse to serve as the home for the Parks & Recreation administration offices and public programming space. In its second lifetime, the facility will include program space for fitness & exercise classes and large multi-purpose spaces for educational, dance & martial arts classes, and group training opportunities.
Where high school football history was once written, kids of
all ages will enjoy a new arts & crafts activity space, Celina’s first E-Sports facility, and conference room space for larger meetings. The existing structural metal building framing will remain; however, the exterior roof and façade will match the existing Ralph O’Dell Senior Center, the structure that once served as a junior high locker room facility. Most importantly, the Bobcat Stadium history and heritage will be included in a large exterior mural and interior art.
“I hope when people step into what will become the new Parks & Recreation offices behind the old stadium, they will know that they are in a historical building,” Elliott said. “Though perhaps unimpressive by today’s standards, that was a fantastic facility in its era that produced championship teams and young champions. I hope they will realize the story that unfolded within those walls, and I am just so thankful that new stories will be made at Ousley Park and our former fieldhouse. Those are some special acres that impacted a lot of lives and truly transformed this community.”
For longtime Celina residents and former players, walking through the renovated facility stirs powerful memories of the building’s championship era. The walls will soon serve a different purpose, but they continue to hold the echoes of pregame, the sounds of cleats on concrete, and the voices of coaches who understood that they were building more than just football teams - they were shaping character and creating bonds that would last lifetimes.
Jordan Martin played for Coach G.A. Moore on all four of the record-setting teams from 1998-2001. From that building he played for a Celina dynasty that never lost a game. Martin has clear memories of the facility, as he shared, “There is no single place from any point in my life where more memories were made than in that old metal building behind the stadium. We grinded it out on the field, but it was in that fieldhouse where those championship teams were made. Inside those walls, the greatest friendships were forged, the most thrilling victories were celebrated, and the record setting seasons and championships were birthed.”
“Celina is a championship town with an expectation for winning and a legacy of winning, and much of that has its strongest roots in that small building. I can still see every square inch of that place. I can still hear the quiet solitude before a big game, and I can hear the thunderous locker room cheers after those memorable wins. I can see the faces of the Coaches who shaped our lives there. And I’m forever grateful for the guys I shared that space with across my four years of playing football there.”
The transformation of the fieldhouse represents more than just creative reuse of a historic building - it symbolizes Celina’s commitment to honoring its heritage while adapting to meet the needs of its growing population. By preserving
the structure and giving it new life as a community facility, the City ensures that future generations will have a tangible connection to the championship tradition that helped define their hometown.
Charlie Rose, a 2018 graduate of Celina High School, played junior high and high school football for the Bobcats and has a lifetime of memories as a part of Bill Elliott’s organization.
Like Martin, Rose has special memories of that unassuming structure behind the old press box, “We spent more time in that fieldhouse than we did at our homes. I still remember the early mornings, the late nights, and the rhythm of that place like it was yesterday. I could walk straight to my old locker without thinking. I’m grateful for the teammates and coaches who shared those formative years with me in that building, and I give the City, school district, and the masterful plan for Ousley Park a lot of credit for preserving special spaces that have shaped so many lives in our community.”
As the City's Parks & Recreation Administration Building prepares to serve the community in its new capacity, it carries forward the spirit of excellence that once drove record making state championship teams to historic success. The building stands as proof that true champions never fade away - they simply find new ways to serve, new purposes to fulfill, and new legacies to build upon the foundations of their past achievements.
In a rapidly changing world, the preservation and repurposing of Celina’s historic fieldhouse demonstrates that some things are too important to be forgotten or discarded. The structure
that once housed the hearts of champions now serves as the organizational center for programs that will shape the next generation of Celina residents, ensuring that the values of teamwork, dedication, and community pride continue to flourish in the town that football helped build, one Friday night at a time.
As Coach Butch Ford reflected, “I worked in all those old structures from June 1988 through May 2012. I had the privilege and honor to work with many outstanding coaches and so many fantastic young athletes. Athletes who worked hard to become champions, the pride of a small town called ‘Celina’. The ‘Spirit of Celina’ is alive and well. May it continue forever! Thank you, City of Celina!”
Stay Connected
Did you know Celina has a vast online and social media presence? With an assortment of social media channels and websites, we’re committed to keeping our residents informed and entertained in all areas relating to life in Celina. Below, we break down all the pages that will keep you connected to our vibrant community.
WEBSITES
City of Celina Government:
Celina-TX.gov
City of Celina Government:
CityofCelina
Celina_Texas
CityofCelinaTX
CityofCelinaTexas
City of Celina Events:
LifeinCelinaTX
LifeinCelinaTX
City of Celina Events: Celina Economic Development Corporation:
LifeinCelinaTX.com
SOCIAL PAGES
Parks & Recreation:
CelinaTXParks
CelinaTXParks
Celina Public Library:
CelinaPublicLibrary
CelinaPublicLibrary
Celina’s Downtown Square:
DowntownCelina
CelinaMainStreet
Celina Police Department:
CelinaPolice
CelinaPoliceTX
CelinaEDC.com
Celina-Police-Department
Celina Fire Department:
CelinaFireDept
CelinaFireDept
Celina Emergency Management:
CelinaTXOEM
CelinaTXOEM
Celinas EDC:
CelinaEDC
CelinaTXEDC
Celina-Texas-EDC
DON’T MISS THE LIFE CONNECTED. APP!
Download the app, hosted by Cityfront, from the app store!
A Tribute to Coach G.A. Moore: The Embodiment of Texas Football Excellence
Faith. Family. Football.
In that order and with no exceptions, Coach G.A. Moore lived, led, and loved in a way that masterfully now defines his legacy.
Texas high school football has produced countless legends over its storied 140-year history, but none cast a longer shadow than Coach Moore, who passed away peacefully on Friday, September 5, at age 86. Moore retired in 2011 as the state’s all-time winningest head football coach with an incredible 429-97-9 record and eight state championships across a nearly 50-year career. The most storied years of his career were irrefutably spent as the Head Football Coach of the Celina Bobcats.
Born and raised near Pilot Point, Moore exemplified the values that make Texas football special. An all-state football and basketball player at Pilot Point High School, he went on to play college football at North Texas State, graduating in 1962. His coaching brilliance was evident from the start - inheriting a Bryson High School team mired in a 21-game losing streak in 1962, the young coach immediately turned them around with a 5-5 record in his first season.
What followed was a career that reads like a Texas football fairy tale. Moore spent most of his professional life moving between Pilot Point and Celina, building championship programs at both schools. His first state championship came
at Celina in 1974. He then led Pilot Point to back-to-back Class 2A state titles in 1980 and 1981. But it was his return to Celina in 1988 that truly cemented his legacy, leading the Bobcats to state titles in 1995 and four consecutive championships from 1998-2001, including a record 68-game winning streak.
Yet Moore’s true greatness transcended wins and championships. Former players and coaches, who both played for and coached under Moore, including current Bobcats Coach Bill Elliott, remember him as a man who impacted thousands of young people. They talk more about his passion to be a Christian example as a husband, father and coach than his championships or his records.
A 2001 Texas Monthly profile captured Moore’s essence perfectly, describing him as exuding “all the flash and sparkle of a dirt farmer,” attending 5:30 AM prayer meetings on Wednesdays and giving credit to everyone but himself at Thursday morning booster breakfasts. This humility, combined with unwavering faith and an intense drive for excellence, defined Moore both on and off the field.
His humility did not overshadow his drive and passion for winning. Moore was an intense coach who demanded that his players give their best, and he got more out of his players than anyone could. This ability to maximize potential while maintaining deep personal relationships with his players created a coaching tree that continues to influence young lives across Texas. In retirement, he would pastor a small church in a farming community just west of Celina.
Though others may have eventually surpassed Moore’s win total, Coach Moore’s .810 winning percentage remains superior in the Texas record books. More importantly, Moore’s impact extended far beyond statistics. In a state where high school football coaches are revered figures, G.A. Moore stood as the gold standard - a man whose legacy lives not just in championship banners, but in the countless lives he shaped through his example of faith, humility, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
Texas has lost more than a coaching legend; it has lost a true embodiment of what makes high school football special. Coach Moore’s influence will endure through every player he coached, every coach he mentored, and every community he served.
In the pantheon of Texas high school football, G.A. Moore will forever remain the standard by which all others are measured.
A GUIDE TO
On October 25, Downtown Celina will transform into our most spooktacular event of the year – Beware! Of the Square presented by Sinacola! With trick-or-treating, a haunted house, a free Kids Zone, Cirque Shows, pumpkin decorating contest, and over 60 market vendors, there’s something for Halloween enthusiasts of all ages!
It’s no secret that Celina loves a good festival, and those who’ve attended Beware! of the Square know it’s one of the City’s best. Drawing thousands of zombies, jedis, and princesses to Celina’s Downtown Square each year, this event offers the perfect blend of spooky and sweet.
Explore Downtown and collect candy from over 60 vendor booths and local businesses.
Brave the haunted experience created by the Celina High School Theater Department that will keep you on your toes with every turn.
Enjoy free activities and entertainment specially designed for children of all ages.
4 Don’t miss this electrifying group performance of the iconic dance from Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.”
Support the community by donating blood and helping decide the ultimate showdown between Celina’s first responders.
Unleash your creativity and submit your decorated pumpkin for a prize! Voting to take place at Beware! of the Square, winners to be determined by festival attendees votes. May the best pumpkins win!
Get your official Beware! of the Square merch at the event!
Discover unique goods and indulge in delicious treats from our local market vendors.
Convenient
DOWNTOWN CELINA
DEC 3 5 - 9 PM
Celina Christmas on the Square presented by Specialty Land Services LLC, is a free, family-friendly event on Celina's Downtown Square. This event will transport you into a real-life Hallmark movie with its charming, hometown Christmas celebration.
Gather with your friends, family, and neighbors to experience the wonder of the season. The festival will feature a variety of activities to bring joy and holiday cheer to everyone. free, family-friendly event neighbors to experience the wonder of holiday cheer to everyone.
TREE LIGHTING
Watch as we illuminate our 30-foot Christmas tree and light up the heart of Celina.
LIVE PERFORMANCES
Enjoy performances by local dancers, singers, and choral groups on our stage throughout the event.
SNOW SLIDES
Experience the thrill of sliding down a real snow slide and add some frosty fun to your holiday season!
PHOTOS WITH SANTA
Capture a magical moment with the big man himself, Santa Claus!
KIDS ZONE
Let the little ones go wild in the Kids' Zone, complete with bounce houses and carnival rides.
SHOPPING
Shop for unique Christmas gifts from local vendors while supporting small businesses.
SANTA'S WORKSHOP
Get creative and make festive holiday crafts.
PETTING ZOO
Interact with friendly animals at the petting zoo.
FOOD VENDORS
Grab a bite to eat from some of Celina's best food vendors.
COOKIE DECORATING WITH THE ELVES
Join the elves from the Celina Public Library for a fun cookie experience.
REINDEER
MEET AND GREET
Snap a photo with one of Santa's real reindeer for a memorable keepsake.
