On Saturday, December 6, 2025, Ashland Place United Methodist Church and the Dumas Wesley Community Center will be hosting a ‘Love the Locals Food Drive and Music Festival.’ The community is invited to stop by and donate non-perishable goods, hygiene items, and cleaning supplies to support The Joseph Project Food Pantry and the Dumas Wesley Community Center. Donors are invited to enjoy complimentary jambalaya and live music entertainment by Doc Rogers and The Rock Dodgers Band, the Excelsior Band, and Jazz Studio.

“The vision of this ‘Love the Locals’ event is an invitation to all. I wonder: how many of our neighbors are ready to rise, step forward, and get into the ‘swing of things’? How will we choose to show up for one another in a time of need? Historically, it is music that inspires the most meaningful movements. Thus, how grateful I am for these artists, these local treasures who will gather for this cause. This is an opportunity to respond as cheerful givers, to make new connections, and to lift one another with joy. Come and join us!” –Dr. Darren M. McClellan, Senior Pastor of Ashland Place UMC