Park Cities People January 2025 by People Newspapers

2024 PERSON OF THE YEAR

The newspaper honors Superintendent Mike Rockwood whose leadership is shaping HPISD for years

Order

PEYTON BONO

REPORTER’S NOTEBOOK

DO YOU WANT SOME SCI-FI WITH THAT?

Diners can expect some futuristic flavoring when they order food to be delivered on campus at Southern Methodist University.

Starship Robots beamed down to the university from their mothership, Starship Technologies, in 2022. They have been rolling around campus on six wheels ever since. The robots deliver everything from Chick-fil-A sandwiches to cake slices and coffee drinks.

Delivery time depends on location, but these Starships are speedy. On average, the robots take between eight and 10 minutes to drop off their food, said Mike Esquenazi, executive director of the SMU hospitality group.

And rapid doesn’t mean reckless. Each robot is equipped with 12 cameras, ultrasonic sensors, neural networks, and other technology. When they encounter an obstacle, Esquenazi said they can detect it and maneuver around it.

A 24-hour call center is available if a robot needs to phone home, but there’s usually assistance closer at hand.

“Students are really great about keeping an eye out for us,” Esquenazi said. “If one of them happens to have a wheel stuck for whatever reason, somebody’s going to help it along.”

The Starships fly around campus in nearly all weather. In dangerous conditions, they shelter in their home base outside of the campus eatery Mac’s Place. The robots also go there for recharging and cleaning at the end of busy days.

These well-mannered robots say, “Thank you. Have a nice day,” after diners pick up their food, and won’t tolerate misbehavior. If someone who didn’t order from a robot tries to open or move it, the mischief-maker will set off a loud siren, as well as be recorded by the Starship’s dozen cameras.

The Starships are patient, but only to a point. After 10 minutes of waiting, they’ll take off with any unclaimed food still inside. Slow-going gourmands receive a refund and can reorder.

SMU has a fleet of 23 robots, with 12 operating at any given time, Esquenazi said. Last year, the robots made 18,410 deliveries at the university. They operate from morning to midnight, and are busiest around lunchtime, said retail director Robert Cox.

Everything tastes better when delivered by Starship, so I decided to give the robots a try. I went to SMU and ordered a slice of Buddy V’s vanilla rainbow cake.

My robot arrived in less time than the app estimated with my cake nestled in a container on one side of its insulation. The slice was warm, moist, and delicious. And, about halfway through eating it, I realized that it was not the vanilla rainbow cake I had ordered, but was actually confetti cake.

I complained to Grubhub. The next day, I received an apology and a full refund. (The only harm done was to my waistline. The cake was excellent, and I would order it again.)

The robot deliveries, Esquenazi said, are one aspect of the best-in-class service that the SMU hospitality group continuously strives to provide.

“We’re always trying to be innovative,” he said, “and trying to bring great new experiences for students.”

You don’t need a college ID to order from SMU’s Starship Robots, but you do need to be on campus, have a Grubhub App, and create an account. SARAH HODGES

SARAH HODGES

6174prestoncreek.ebby.com

New Year, New E-Bike Regulations

Teens too young to get behind the wheel of a car will also not be able to drive electric bicycles under new regulations that take effect on Jan. 1 in the Park Cities.

University Park and Highland Park have each approved e-bike safety restrictions that:

· Require e-bike operators to have a valid driver’s license.

· Require all e-bikes to have working safety equipment, including reflectors, lights, and braking systems. Class 3 e-bikes must also have speedometers.

· Require operators under age 21 to

Crime Reports Nov. 12-Dec. 7

Nov. 12

A brazen burglar stole a Dell XPS 15 Laptop, a passport, and a backpack at about 3:11 p.m. from a Mercedes-Benz in Snider Plaza.

Nov. 13

Reported at 8 a.m.: A large commercial truck got stuck trying to make a turn in the 4500 block of Belfort Place and damaged a sprinkler head.

Nov. 14

Reported at 3:43 p.m.: A mischief maker in the 4500 block of Emerson Avenue had been making silent or abusive 911 calls. She was arrested on Nov. 15 for making a false police report.

Nov. 15

A careless driver left dents and scratches on a 2021 Lexus LS 500 in the parking lot of Whole Foods in the 4100 block of Lomo Alto Drive before 2:25 p.m., but did not leave information.

Nov. 16

Reported at 1:53 p.m.: A thief used 370,284 air miles stolen from the American Airlines Frequent Flyer account of a resident of the 4300 block of Bordeaux Avenue to take off in a rental car from “CarTrawler.”

Nov. 18

A purse poacher may have stolen a Louis Vuitton purse, social security card, credit cards, and driver’s license from a vehicle on Villanova Drive.

Nov. 19

Reported at 10:42 a.m.: The driver of a Lexus RX 350 flew off down Mockingbird Lane after hitting a 2018 Honda Accord in the 5500 block of Preston Road.

Nov. 20

Reported at 9:01 a.m.: A destructive deviant stole building materials from the construction site of a new home on Hanover Street during the night of Nov. 19.

Nov. 21

What’s easier than battling the crowd at the Apple Store in NorthPark Center? Breaking into an unlocked Land Rover on Northwest Parkway. A thief stole a MacBook Pro and backpack from the vehicle at about 5:33 p.m. on Nov. 21.

Nov. 22

Reported at 7:21 a.m. on Amherst Avenue: A 17-year-old female allegedly threatened to exhibit or use a firearm at a school.

A 32-year-old man was arrested at about 6:33 p.m. after allegedly fleeing the scene of a fatality, multiple vehicle crash at the intersection of Lovers Lane and Preston Road.

Nov. 23

A man was arrested for driving while intoxicated and carrying a Ruger Security-9 semi-automatic pistol and 16 rounds of ammunition without a license at about 12:31 a.m. on Lovers Lane.

Reported at 10:28 p.m.: A muddled motorist drove the wrong way down a lane in Highland Park Village, stopped, drove in reverse, hit a 2019 Chevy Equinox, and drove off without leaving information.

Nov. 24

A sneaky thief broke into a 2023 Chevy in Snider Plaza at about 2:47 p.m., and stole an iPad, laptop, and 9 mm Shield pistol.

Nov. 25

A reckless roadster struck the side mirror of a 2023 Dodge Ram 1500 at about 12 p.m. in the 3700 block of Mockingbird Lane , then drove off without leaving information.

Nov. 27

Reported at 9:05 a.m.: A crafty criminal stole $3,664 in cash from Christian Louboutin in Highland Park Village, perhaps by dropping the money into a trash can and retrieving it after the garbage was taken outside.

Nov. 29

A sneaky thief swiped a 2018 Cadillac CTS-V from The Plaza at Preston Center at about 8:36 p.m.

Nov. 30

A no-good hacker stole four golf bags, golf clubs, two range finders, a leather scorecard holder, golf glove holders, golf gloves, golf balls, head covers, a golf ball retriever, golf towels, a club scrub cleaner, and golf brushes from a 2017 Ford on Hyer Avenue at about 7:38 p.m.

wear a helmet.

· Require operators of e-bikes to obtain and display a permit issued by the city or town, as well as a permanent manufacturer’s label that includes class, top speed, and motor wattage.

· Require e-bike operators to comply with all laws and ordinances.

· Prohibit the operation of e-bikes at speeds greater than 30 miles per hour.

· Prohibit e-bikes from being modified in ways that place them outside Texas Transportation Code specifications.

During the permit application process, a city or town public safety employee

Dec. 1

The careless cruiser who hit a Mercedes-Benz GL 450 before 5:20 p.m. in the Highland Park Village parking lot was caught on camera by a witness, who shared the photos with police officers.

A dangerous driver did not stop after hitting a teenage biker in a crosswalk on Hillcrest Avenue at about 5:53 p.m. The boy was not injured, and was released to his father.

Dec. 2

Reported at 10:26 a.m.: A fraudster altered a check mailed by a resident of the 3200 block of St John’s Drive to change the recipient and increase the amount from $1,875 to $5,870.

Dec. 3

Reported at 4:23 p.m.: A corrupt customer made a gold “Freya” bracelet worth $450 vanish inside a fitting room at Veronica Beard in Highland Park Village on Nov. 29.

Dec. 4

A reckless roadster made a run for it after striking an Oncor power pole at about 6:38 p.m. on Preston Road.

A Stoney Clover Lane fanny pack that fell out of a carriage ride near the 4400 blocks of Livingston, Edmonson, or Fairfax Avenues at about 7:45 p.m. was recovered by a thief who used the credit cards in it to make purchases at Target and Ross.

Dec. 5

Reported at 12:06 p.m. A Lexus GX 550 that was stolen overnight from behind a home in the 3700 block of Potomac Avenue was recovered by the San Antonio Police Department and Bexar County Sheriff’s Office.

Dec. 6

A brazen burglar struck a vehicle and building on Hanover Street at about 9:10 a.m. and stole a birth certificate, social security card, two Amazon Echos, and one gold house key.

Dec. 7

A porch pirate ripped into a package delivered to a home in the 4000 block of Gillon Avenue at about 5:30 p.m. and replaced its contents with garbage and food.

will inspect the bike to ensure compliance with the ordinance.

“This is a very, very strict approach,” University Park Police Chief Bill Mathes told the city council on Nov. 19. “I think we have enough experience under our belts right now that if we’re going to err on one side or the other, we are going to err on the side of caution and safety.”

Electric scooters are not permitted in the Park Cities with the exception of on the SMU campus and certain streets and sidewalks adjacent to the university. Operators at SMU must be at least 18 years old. – Compiled by Sarah Hodges

A Next-Level Real Estate Experience

Home & Business

KICK OFF YOUR BOOTS AND STAY AWHILE IN MIRON CROSBY’S RENOVATED FLAGSHIP STORE

DESIGN-YOUR-OWN

By Sarah Hodges sarah.hodges@peoplenewspapers.com

Visitors needed to travel down 16 miles of dirt road to reach the house where sisters Lizzie Means Duplantis and Sarah Means grew up in West Texas. After arriving, travelers would stay for a while and enjoy their mother’s beautiful hospitality.

The Highland Park Village flagship store of Miron Crosby, the sisters’ luxury, artisanal cowboy boot brand, isn’t quite as far off the beaten track. But the sisters hope that the store’s first significant renovation since its 2017 opening creates the same welcoming, hospitable feeling for visitors.

“Having the opportunity for people to come up and feel comfortable, have a ranch water, and get to know us and hear our story, that all is one of the tenets of our business,” Lizzie said. “We just knew we needed a really comfortable, beautiful store.”

The store nestled above rag & bone in

Highland Park Village closed for eight days in August for what the sisters call its first true renovation. It reopened in the same 490-squarefoot space, but with a redesign that feels warm, homey, and — like the elegant and unique boots sitting in shelving racks on its walls — fashion elevated.

“Dallas women and men are the most stylish and know how to dress, and certainly know how to wear a cowboy boot.” Lizzie Means Duplantis

Gone is the large, marble table that used to anchor the sisters’ “little tree house.” In its place are vintage furnishings inspired in part by glassware that the sisters collected in San Miguel, said Carrie White of White Interiors, the designer who led the renovations.

Elements of the redesign combine West

Real Talk: Eric Hage

Eric Hage joined Dallas’ KDC, one of the nation’s leading real estate development and investment firms, just three years ago.

As the company’s executive vice president of development,

he has been responsible for new business strategies involving the company’s core businesses, including office, industrial and data center development.

Now his role is even bigger: KDC has promoted Hage, who’s worked in commercial real estate for two decades, to president.

Hage succeeded Toby Grove, who continues to serve in an advisory role as vice chairman of the board of directors.

How did you get into real estate? It was a classic story of being in the right place at the right time. I was teaching tennis to kids during my first summer back from college and one of the parents, Talmage Boston, asked if I would be interested in

Texas style and New York fashion. Feathered wallpaper from French fashion designer Christian Lacroix is so realistic that visitors might reach out a hand to touch it, while a vintage ceiling fixture is reminiscent of a wagon wheel.

“That’s sort of our special crossroads,” Sarah said. “In all of our design aesthetic is a little bit of western and a little bit of New York high fashion.”

The sisters lived in New York for about a decade, Sarah working in fashion and Lizzie in finance, before returning to Texas and launching Miron Crosby.

“Miron” is a play on their great-grandfather’s name and another word for the Biblical

a construction internship. Talmage made the introduction, for which I am still grateful to this day. This opportunity led to a summer internship with Turner Construction, where I worked on commercial office properties, and ultimately a full-time job after college.

What is the best thing about working in real estate?

This may sound cliché, but the people are the best part of working in commercial real estate. The industry invites people of all backgrounds, talents, and personalities. Some of my best friends are those who I have done business with for more than 20 years. The Dallas market, in particular, has lots of key real estate players yet it has a small feel to it.

gift myrrh. “Crosby” is the name of a pasture on their family cattle ranch, as well as one of the sisters’ favorite streets in New York’s SoHo neighborhood, Lizzie said.

Since launching in 2017 with about 12 silhouettes, the company has left its boot print on the fashion and western wear industries. Miron Crosby’s collection has grown to include about 75 silhouettes, including a children’s collection that the sisters call Mini Crosby. In 2021, the sisters opened a studio in Aspen, and in 2023 they added another in Houston. Their brand may be kicking up dust far from Highland Park Village, but the sisters said that Dallas, which has encouraged, supported, and championed them, is the perfect place for their signature store.

“We’re really proud our flagship is here,” Lizzie said. “Dallas women and men are the most stylish and know how to dress, and certainly know how to wear a cowboy boot. And so, we think this is the perfect place for us to fit, and a great representation of our clientele.”

Now that you’ve been a real estate professional for a while, if you could go back in time and give yourself any advice, what would it be?

As a young man, I had limited knowledge of the construction industry. I immediately starting learning as much as possible by hitching myself to smarter people and asking lots of questions – almost shamelessly. In the years since, I have watched young professionals hesitate to ask questions out of fear of not looking smart. This is a missed opportunity and the best time to learn freely from those more experienced.

What is your outlook on the Dallas market?

We are lucky to be in Dallas with a strong workforce and affordable

housing, particularly in comparison to other parts of the country. Our central location in the United States and an overall business-friendly environment makes this the place to be. DFW has become an attractive spot for college grads, and companies have taken note. Businesses from all sectors, banking to tech, continue to be bullish about maintaining and even growing their DFW presence.

What’s a fun fact about yourself?

I love eating at a good dive. Whenever I travel to another city, I check for places Guy Fieri has visited on his show Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. My favorite dive so far is Louie’s Pizza here in Dallas.

– Compiled by William Taylor

Miron Crosby recently launched an online tool that brings the custom luxury fashion cowboy boot experience into homes. Visit mironcrosby.com to design your boots online.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Miron Crosby’s flagship is nestled above rag & bone in Highland Park Village. The sisters’ collection has grown to include about 75 silhouettes, and additional shelving was added during the renovation to display them. Sisters Sarah Means and Lizzie Means Duplantis. KELSEY FOSTER

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Try These Quick and Easy Ways to Style Your Coffee Table

You should never underestimate the impact that a coffee table has on the rest of the room. Since they’re often the centerpieces of the living room or the den, they affect a visitor’s first impression. Fortunately, they’re also easy to style once you know the tried-and-true methods for decorating them.

My go-tos for styling a coffee table are stacks of books, something tall (such as a plant or a series of candlesticks), a storage tray or dish, and one unusual accessory.

Books

Coffee table books look best when stacked in groups of two to four each. Whenever possible, try to select books with covers that complement the color scheme of the rest of the room. Another rule of thumb is to avoid stacking books at a diagonal angle compared to the table; doing this makes it look as if you set the books down in a hurry.

Plants

A coffee table without a single plant (whether live or faux) can feel a little staged. Plants add an organic touch and some texture to the tablespace. As with everything else, the plant needs to be the correct proportion for the table. Plants should not be so large that they get in the way of conversation or watching television.

Trays

Trays can help organize functional items, such as coasters. Make sure to pick one that doesn’t occupy more than half of the tabletop, and don’t place it right in the center, either. Although many homeowners use their coffee table tray to store remotes, I recommend storing

those out-of-sight in drawers or a decorative box instead.

Decorative objects

Coffee tables are also a great place to show your personality, since they’re an appropriate spot for unusual collectibles and antiques. Examples can include pretty jewel boxes, glass orbs, or small sculptures. To vary the heights of your objects, place decorative objects or plants on top of your stacked books.

If you need help finding charming accessories for your coffee tables, you may want to consult a professional designer. We know the best places to find antique tea caddies, statues, pottery plates or bowls, and other great items.

Coffee tables should be artfully designed, but functional too, leaving plenty of space to set down a magazine or a drink. By following these tips, you can design a coffee table that’s not only useable, but also adds some serious style to your room.

Margaret Chambers, a registered interior designer (RID) and American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) member, leads Chambers Interiors and Associates. Her colleague Caitlin Crowley helped edit this column. Visit chambersinteriors.com/ blog for more design advice.

Edgemere Offers Best-in-Class Senior Living with the Freedom of a Rental Community

When looking for a senior living community that best fits your lifestyle, aspirations, and needs, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is choosing between a lifecare (or buy-in) community or a rental community.

Because of its legacy as a former lifecare community, Dallas’s preeminent community, Edgemere, offers many of the benefits typical of the buy-in model — including more floorplan variety, extensive amenities, highly personalized service, and a strong sense of community — without any of the financial drawbacks lifecare imposes.

In fact, Edgemere’s unparalleled programming, amenities, and exceptional quality of life for residents led Newsweek to name it the Best Continuing Care Retirement Community in Texas and #2 in the entire nation for 2024.

Perhaps the most significant advantage of a rental community is that it doesn’t require a large entry fee. Often, lifecare communities require an upfront deposit ranging from $250,000 to $1.5 million or more, which ties up your capital. In a rental community like Edgemere, however, you maintain control and have the flexibility to invest or use this money as you see fit

without needing to tie it up in an investment in long-term care that you may or may not need down the line.

By keeping your finances liquid, you can manage your investments better while enjoying the luxury and care that Edgemere provides. You’re not locked into a long-term contract, and if your circumstances change, you’re free to move without worrying about complex refunds or resales, which are common challenges in life care communities.

Behind the scenes, the finances of rental senior living communities are historically much more sustainable and less prone to market volatility, ensuring that residents will enjoy a consistently high level

of service. In fact, Edgemere is the only senior living community in the area that carries absolutely no debt.

What Makes Edgemere

Unique

While many rental communities offer limited floorplans in a midrise setting with little greenspace, Edgemere residents have their choice of spacious and light-filled one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes in 14 distinctive layouts, each with high-end fixtures and private balconies or patios — all set on a leafy 16-acre campus in the heart of the prestigious Preston Hollow neighborhood.

“Secretly, we actually offer more than 14 floorplans,” explains Edgemere’s Executive Director, Teresa Bates. “For more than 20

years, residents updated and customized their homes to suit their needs. Some of them put hundreds of thousands of dollars into these unique — and stunning — renovations. Future residents will certainly benefit from these beautiful personalization’s.”

The community’s amenities are as rich and distinctive as its homes. Edgemere’s tree-filled courtyards feature flowing fountains and outdoor fireplaces, providing the perfect setting for informal get-togethers and peaceful strolls while a dedicated dog park gives four-legged friends a place to stretch out their legs. The natural grass putting green complements the community’s popular and innovative indoor golf simulator.

Other indoor amenities include a performing arts center, movie theater, library, woodshop, art studio, greenhouse, billiards room, a complete fitness center with a heated indoor pool, and a full-service salon, barbershop, and spa.

Exceptional Dining and Service

Edgemere offers residents three different dining venues. The Medici restaurant provides a truly fine dining experience using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients of the best quality prepared by accomplished chefs.

The Portobello Bistro offers chef-prepared made-to-order fare in a more casual setting without sacrificing taste, freshness, nor attention to detail. The Bella Vita Bar offers fine wines and cocktails, and a wonderful setting for meeting friends, old and new. In addition, our new Bottega is a grab-and-go café that provides convenient options for busy residents.

Choosing Edgemere means gaining access to an upscale, engaging, and secure lifestyle without long-term financial commitment.

To learn more about Edgemere, schedule a tour at: edgemerelife.com/contact-us.

Residents enjoying life

Edgemere Senior LIving – Heart of North Dallas

ABOVE: This coffee table with a shelf on the bottom is topped with a bowl of fresh flowers, an antique quill box, and a porcelain bowl. Underneath, we placed a toile tray and multiple stacks of books. AT LEFT: We styled this coffee table, which has an iron and mosaic marble inlay, with a bone box, a pair of Chinese green parrots, and an antique chinoiserie tea caddy. MICHAEL HUNTER WITH DESIGN BY MARGARET CHAMBERS

MARGARET CHAMBERS

DID MARATHON-RUNNING GAMBLER CHEAT?

Filmmaking Leake brothers document Andrew McElroy’s high-stakes bet

By Josh Hickman Special Contributor

Highland Park High School

grads John Leake, Michael Leake, and Andrew McElroy have made an entertaining and engrossing documentary, Double or Nothing, premiering locally at the Angelica Film Center in January.

The Leake brothers enlisted a film crew to document an aging inveterate gambler — their high school buddy Andrew — making the biggest wager of his life.

“Andy was a professional bookie and part of a $5 billion sports gambling ring until he was busted by the feds in 2013,” John explained. “Since then, he has made a living doing personal high-stakes wagers. In 2022, he bets his best friend ‘G-Man’ a million dollars that G-Man cannot quit drugs and alcohol. To everyone’s surprise, G-Man succeeds in quitting cold turkey. Now on the hook for a million dollars, Andy makes the greatest wager of his life by proposing to do the Honolulu Marathon despite being in catastrophically poor physical condition. If he succeeds, he will cancel his one million debt. If he fails, he will owe G-Man two million. Again, to everyone’s surprise, Andy does the marathon. However, as soon as he finishes, G-Man raises the suspicion that Andy cheated.”

Would Andy cheat his oldest friend? If so, how exactly did he perform the deception? Mounting

‘Staubach

“There’s a widespread perception that you can’t trust people. That becomes the central drama of the latter half of the picture.”

John Leake

tension and conflict are resolved when Andy takes a lie detector test.

McElroy remains a colorful legend in Park Cities circles of his generation. His parents were the late philanthropist, SMU supporter, and socialite Linda Harris McElroy

Gibbons and lawyer, educator, and ’72 Texas gubernatorial candidate Benjamin Thomas McElroy.

“We had no idea the story would unfold the way it did,” Michael said of he and his Maui filmmaker friends on the initially

spontaneous decision to shoot. “We thought, ‘This is just writing itself — it’s just falling into our lap.’ The story just got better and better. It worked beautifully.”

“It taps into a malaise of modern American society,” John observed.

Pass’ Honors Retired Dallas Quarterback

THE PREMIERE

What: Double or Nothing documentary

When: 6:30 p.m. Jan. 24

Where: Angelika Film Center at Mockingbird Station.

More information: doubleornothingmovie.com

“We have a trust problem. There’s a widespread perception that you can’t trust people. That becomes the central drama of the latter half of the picture. ‘Did he cheat?’ The more we got into it, the more I realized this is a great story with a great moral center to it based around friendship and the question of betrayal.”

Produced by Michael and John, written by John, directed by John and Jace Panebianco, and edited by Cody Carter, Double or Nothing will be streamed on Amazon, Vudu, Google, and Apple and available for download.

“Maybe we’ll take it on tour to independent theaters, which I think would be a lot of fun,” John said. Beyond fun, the film also explores serious themes.

“Gambling is a metaphor for accessing reality,” John noted. “At any given moment, we have to kind of bet on things. There’s a kind of wonderful irony in that these guys have known each other over 30 years, yet they both catastrophically underestimate each other.”

‘Roger the Dodger’ and family attend Katy Trail plaza dedication, ribbon cutting

By Colton Stroud People Newspapers

Katy Trail has a new addition at the crossing of Harvard Avenue honoring the legacy of Dallas Cowboy Roger Staubach.

The new Staubach Pass plaza contains four stone pillars, each engraved with a word chosen by Staubach’s family to represent his character and impact on Dallas: service, faith, perseverance, and family.

“In 1963, I never thought I’d be back for this. We lost to SMU on a Friday night, 32-28.” Roger Staubach

The plaza is paved with blue-gray stones, with strips of light periodically guiding would-be night walkers. Additionally, the plaza features stone benches

for anyone wishing to rest.

“Places like the Katy Trail make Dallas seem small and friendly,” Friends of the Katy Trail executive director Amy Bean said.

“And while the trail is the beloved ribbon of green, the plazas of the trail are the cornerstones. The trail’s iconic plazas serve as spots for rest, relaxation, and community.”

Staubach, now 82, attended the plaza’s ribbon-cutting ceremony along with his family, with Staubach himself cutting the ribbon for the grand opening of his namesake plaza.

“In 1963, I never thought I’d be back for this.” Staubach remarked, “We lost to SMU on a Friday night, 32-28. We were 9-1, and we came back here to play Texas, and they beat us at the Cotton Bowl. And I said, ‘I never, ever, want to come back here,’ but it’s the best thing that could have happened to me. With my family, everything.”

Staubach Pass marks the first plaza addition to the Trail since 2018, when Cambrick Plaza was constructed as part of Katy Trail’s last capital campaign. Staubach Pass was designed by SWA Group, a local landscape architecture firm that has been responsible for many of the Trail’s enhancements.

The plaza was funded through an anonymous $1 million donation. According to Bean, the donors believed “it was important to civic life that there be a physical acknowledgment of Roger’s contribution to our community.”

CLOCKWISE, FROM LEFT: John and Michael Leake. The documentary follows gambler Andrew McElroy as he tries to win the biggest wager of his life by completing the Honolulu Marathon. COURTESY JOHN LEAKE

Roger Staubach and family came out to the Katy Trail for the ribbon cutting of a new plaza named for the NFL Hall of Fame Dallas Cowboys quarterback. COLTON STROUD

Meyer Focused on Taxes, Border

By Colton Stroud People Newspapers

In 2023, state Rep. Morgan Meyer, R-University Park, sponsored bills Gov. Greg Abbott credited with bringing “the largest property tax reduction in Texas history.”

And the chair of the Texas House of Representative’s Ways and Means Committee said he’s not done with that issue.

“It’s your property taxes,” Meyer told residents of the Forum at Park Lane. “It should be given back to you in many different ways of property tax relief.”

During a Nov. 20 program at the retirement community, the sixterm representative for District 108 also outlined his concerns about the border, human trafficking, and education funding.

“Last session alone, we spent over 6.5 billion dollars of Texas money to secure our border,” the lawmaker said, adding he expects that task to get easier when President-Elect Donald Trump returns to office. “We as a state were told by courts that we could not secure our own border. Well, we disregarded them. We said ‘This is the Texas border. It is our right to defend it.’”

On a related topic, Meyer credited Dallas-based New Friends New Life (NFNL) with opening his eyes to the problem of human trafficking.

“They’re a great group who are now the leading combatants for fighting human trafficking in the state of Texas,” he said.

Texas sees the second highest amount of trafficking in the nation, according to NFNL, prompting Meyer to prioritize the issue.

“Because Dallas, unfortunately, is an epicenter for it, and obviously that also ties to our border,” Meyer said.

Education will be another major focus in the next Legislature.

“Funding public education is something I hear about from Dallas Independent School District, Richardson Independent School District, and Highland Park Independent School District,” Meyer said. “Just to make sure we have enough money, quite frankly, for funding and for teaching our kids, but also taking care of our teachers.”

He suggested lawmakers could cut the STAAR test “while still holding schools accountable.”

“I know the House and the Senate are looking to get back to the basics and quit trying to teach to a particular test,” Meyer said. “Maybe make sure that, to your point, they can write in cursive, or they can, you know, do simple math or whatever the basics are — comprehend a book.”

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BROCK WEBSTER 214-543-8963

MARY ALICE GARRISON 214-543-7075 MORIAH LOVETT MCRAE 501-563-0234

CARLA JOHNSON 405-229-6976 MOLLY MASSEY 214-263-8216

Morgan Meyer COLTON STROUD

HPHS GRAD SAILS IN COMPETITIONS AROUND THE GLOBE

Now a freshman at Tulane, Kohl won multiple championships in St. Croix and Ireland

By Todd Jorgenson People Newspapers

No matter where she’s lived, Lola Kohl has always been at home on the water — as long as she has the wind at her back.

Kohl, who graduated from Highland Park High School last spring, brings plenty of international experience to the sailing team at Tulane University in New Orleans, where she has made a valuable impact during her freshman season.

“School is a break from sailing, and sailing is a break from school.”

Lola Kohl

After all, she learned the sport in the U.S. Virgin Islands and refined her skills in Ireland, so navigating the collegiate level isn’t so intimidating.

Kohl’s father is an investment banker who loves the ocean. But her mother valued living near family back home. So, they compromised,

and for the first decade or so of her life, they split time between the Park Cities and the Caribbean island of St. Croix.

“My dad wanted to try something new, and we ended up really liking it, so we stayed,” Kohl said.

“And then we came back, because Dallas was our home.”

Given her petite frame, Kohl specializes as a skipper on lightweight, high-performance skiffs and dinghies, usually with only one crew member.

During several years in Europe, she became the country’s female national champion and overall national champion. Plus, her entire family has dual Irish citizenship.

On the island, Kohl and her four brothers gravitated to the local yacht club. When she was 11, Kohl went to the world championships for the first time as the youngest competitor in the 29er skiff class.

“After a while, I just wanted to compete against (my brothers),” she said. “I got really

competitive because I wanted to beat them.”

The family later relocated for several years to Cork, Ireland, which put Kohl and her siblings closer to the sport’s hotbeds in Spain and Italy. But this time, instead of treating one another as rivals, the Kohls decided to team up.

“It was fun as Team Kohl when we were winning,” she said. “We decided after we won nationals that it’s best to not [continue], because we would get into too many fights. But I learned a lot over there. It was working out for everyone.”

Kohl had been sailing every day in Ireland, which jump-started the college recruiting process. So, when her family returned to the Park Cities for her entire senior year, she decided to cut back her travel and competition schedule.

She sailed in the C420 class during the fall season at Tulane, frequently entering regattas alongside powerhouse programs from the Northeast.

“Being on the American circuit is different,” she said. “I’ve really enjoyed it. School is a break from sailing, and sailing is a break from school.”

Sisterhood Fueled Hardwood Success for HP Senior Guard

As the second of three siblings, Lila Collins learned from one and is mentoring another

By Todd Jorgenson People Newspapers

If it wasn’t for her older sister, Lila Collins isn’t sure she’d even be playing basketball in the first place.

Family ties run deep in the Highland Park girls program, linking the passions of former Lady Scots standout Charlotte Collins with Lila and their younger sister, Brady.

“I grew up watching my older sister play and that’s where I got my love of basketball from,” Lila Collins said. “It’s kind of ingrained in us at this point.”

She was able to play alongside Charlotte, who graduated in 2023, for two years with the Lady Scots and also on the same select team during the summer.

“We had a huge rivalry because we would always play and practice against one another,” Lila said. “Charlotte helped me grow and she taught me. Now I help Brady grow.”

That’s part of her responsibility as a senior captain, the same role Charlotte had during her final year at HP. Lila also is a valuable contributor as a quick-footed guard.

“We’ve seen so much growth with her leadership and her voice within the team,”

“It’s kind of ingrained in us at this point.” Lila Collins

said HP head coach Todd Monsey. “Lila has such a high basketball IQ.”

Lila recalls not playing much during her freshman and sophomore years, but cherishes

the memories because of the leadership she learned from Charlotte. Now she hopes to pay that forward to Brady, who has future captain aspirations of her own.

“I just followed them,” said Brady, a sophomore who has played primarily on the junior-varsity squad this season. “Seeing them always play, it was convenient.”

The Collins sisters are one of two sibling pairs in the HP basketball program. Junior forward Avery Sambrano’s younger sister, Olivia, is playing at the freshman level.

The Lady Scots endured an up-anddown nondistrict portion of their schedule while facing elite competition at tournaments in Allen and Georgetown. They hope that experience will pay off while chasing a postseason berth in a challenging District 12-5A.

Monsey said that Lila and Brady often challenge one another and communicate in practice in a mutually beneficial way that pushes each of them to improve.

“That really establishes what we want as a program,” he said, “that we can compete with each other and make each other better.”

Park Cities native Lola Kohl began sailing on the Caribbean island of St. Croix. COURTESY

Lila Collins attributes much of her basketball success at Highland Park to her older sister, Charlotte. ROB GRAHAM

New Coach Looks to Elevate Perennial Postseason Success for Lady Scots

By Todd Jorgenson People Newspapers

Chad Hobbs was looking for a new challenge leading an elite girls soccer program in the Dallas area, and Highland Park provided the ideal landing spot.

The former head coach at pe rennial powerhouse Flower Mound Marcus, who spent the past year coaching youth academy teams for MLS franchise Austin FC, returns to the high school ranks this season with the Lady Scots.

“I was happy coaching with Austin FC. It was an awesome experience,” Hobbs said. “But I was excited about being back in this area. I wanted to take over another high school program. I thought Highland Park was a good fit.”

Hobbs won more than 200 games in 12 seasons at Marcus, which regularly made deep playoff runs in the 6A classification. He replaces Aaron McGough, who led HP to district titles in each of her three seasons at the helm.

After spending the past two years in 6A, the Lady Scots are back in Class 5A this winter. That’s where they won the most recent of their seven state championships, more than any other program in the state, in 2019.

“The transition has been really

smooth. They are highly motivated and highly competitive kids,” Hobbs said. “Learning a new school and new traditions takes time, but it’s been awesome. Everybody has been extremely supportive.”

Hobbs has started to implement his principles and possession-oriented system prior to the start of the regular season in January. He said the Lady Scots will emphasize connectivity, passing,

movement without the ball, and defensive pressure.

HP returns plenty of talent from last year’s 19-4-3 team, including Lucy Cox, Addie Brink, Reagan Johansen, Reese Liner, Adeline Jacobs, and Whitney Gross. Also back are goalkeepers Charlotte Pulliam and Paige Binns, who could split time.

Among the newcomers expected to make a quick impact are Brooklyn Baskin, Maggie Deskin,

BOYS SCHEDULE

January

2 Wylie 12:30 p.m.

3 South Grand Prairie 12:30 p.m.

4 Midlothian 12:30 p.m.

9 Sachse^ 6:30 p.m.

10 South Grand

Wynn Ellis, and Sophie Miller.

“We’ve seen a lot of growth within the group,” Hobbs said. “I think we’re going to get contributions from a lot of different spots.”

HP will be tested early with high-profile tournaments in Southlake and Georgetown prior to the District 12-5A opener on Jan. 21 against Carrollton Creekview.

On the boys side, HP will look

to build on the momentum from last year’s 20-win campaign that included a district championship in head coach Scott Turner’s debut season.

The Scots will be led by returnees Jack O’Grady, Jack Madsen, and Hafeey Shah, as well as goalkeeper Justin Ratner. They will open the schedule with the annual HP Classic tournament beginning Jan. 2.

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

The Lady Scots have several returning stars including Addie Brink. CHRIS MCGATHEY

Schools

2024 PERSON OF THE YEAR: MIKE ROCKWOOD

With leadership of new superintendent, future looks bright for HPISD

By Sarah Hodges sarah.hodges@peoplenewspapers.com

Superintendent Mike Rockwood has been at the helm of Highland Park ISD for less than 24 months, but his team’s achievements have already shaped the district for years to come.

The Park Cities community recently gave HPISD teachers and staff an overwhelming vote of confidence with the passage of the district’s $137.3 million bond package. In an election where most Texas bond referendums failed, HPISD’s bond won the approval of almost 70% of voters.

Rockwood has earned Park Cities People’s respect and admiration, as well. We’ve named him our Person of the Year for 2024.

“The one thing that you’ll find in the Park Cities is that if you can get this community aligned on anything, the sky’s the limit,” Rockwood said. “The fact that we had such an overwhelming reaction during a presidential election with over 18,000

voters was truly a blessing.”

Bond approval numbers aren’t the only ones that have been high under Rockwood’s leadership. Student test scores are also going up.

Thanks to the implementation of HPISD’s new English Language Arts framework, elementary schoolers have already seen significant gains in their scores on the STAAR, Texas’ annual achievement test. Nearly three-quarters of HPISD third and fourth graders scored at the highest level on the 2024 English Language Arts test. They outperformed both their peers in the state and in a selection of other high-performing districts.

At the secondary level, sophomores and juniors’ scores have increased on the PSAT, the test used to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program and prepare for college admission exams.

“The one thing that you’ll find in the Park Cities is that if you can get this community aligned on anything, the sky’s the limit.” Mike Rockwood

Rockwood, the father of two HPISD students, is the ninth superintendent in the district’s 110-year history. He’s committed to partnering with parents, staff, and the community to ensure HPISD remains “the very best public school district in Texas” for years to come. By 2028, his team aims to boost the pay of all HPISD educators into the top quartile of its comparison school districts. The district has jumped in the rankings since 2020 thanks to the efforts of the HPISD community,

Rockwood said. The 2024 bond and a commitment to fiscal responsibility are moving the district even closer to that goal.

The Board of Trustees approved a new fiveyear Strategic Plan Balanced Scorecard in Dec. 2023, a document that Rockwood said will help the district stay focused on its “North Star.”

“I’ve not seen anything in Highland Park ISD without a nudge to the left or a nudge to the right that we can’t make really significant gains,” he said. “Making sure that the experience across the board is a good one for our children is what’s important.”

Board of Trustees president Maryjane Bonfield said she was excited about the future of the district under Rockwood’s leadership, and grateful he chose to become a part of the HPISD community.

“In all his efforts, Dr. Rockwood combines a spirit of continuous improvement with a calm, direct approach, qualities that have proven invaluable to our district,” she said. “His leadership has kept HPISD on a positive trajectory towards excellence.”

Superintendent Mike Rockwood joined HPISD in April 2023. He is committed to working with the community, faculty, staff, and parents to ensure the best educational experience for students. COURTESY HIGHLAND PARK ISD

SMALL SCHOOL, BIG EXPERIENCE

Please join us to learn why Fairhill is a Life-Changing school for students with learning differences!

Personalized Learning Instruction

Every lesson is built around YOU! With small class sizes, tailored teaching, multi-sensory instruction at every grade level, learning is all about individual growth and progress.

Dyslexia and Dysgraphia Support

Expert support and intervention strategies help every student build on their strengths and gain skills to overcome challenges. With this academic support, success is within reach.

Inclusive Sports Teams

From the field to the court, a variety of sports for middle and high school students bring everyone together! Teamwork, growth, and fun are at the heart of every game. Go Falcons!

Learning Support Program

The Learning Support Program builds confidence in every student by providing learning resources and executive function skill development leading to academic success.

Small School, Big Opportunities

Big experiences for every student! At Fairhill, our small-school setting creates space for leadership opportunities, fine arts showcases, extra-curricular activities, and hands-on projects, empowering students to shine and reach their full potential.

HPHS Artists Give Armstrong Eagles a Place to Roost

By Sarah Hodges sarah.hodges@peoplenewspapers.com

Thanks to hard work from two Highland Park High School freshmen, students at Armstrong Elementary — where the mascot is the eagle — now have a place to soar.

Caspar Curry and Devin Li spent about two weeks in August painting an 11-by-11 foot mural of a beautiful forest in the school’s library.

The mural was inspired by environments where eagles roost. Its tall trees, stream, mountains, and blue sky have replaced formerly blank wall space near the library’s main entrance.

“Everybody walks by it every day,” Armstrong Librarian Lori Riley said. “And it was so fun to hear all the kids’ comments, even from preschool all the way to fourth grade. They would say things like, ‘Oh my goodness. That’s so beautiful.’”

Caspar, whose sister Colette is a second grader at Armstrong, asked fellow artist Devin to help with the mural with the aim of beautifying the library space.

“Since I have a passion for art, and I also wanted to help out the community, I just jumped at this opportunity to paint the mural,” Devin said.

The pair spent about 60 hours working on the project. The mural became a family affair. Caspar and his mother bought art supplies, and both

mothers shuttled the painters lunch.

One of the mural’s challenges was projecting Caspar’s small reference image of the forest onto the

oversized space. Caspar made a grid to scale up the design while keeping the correct proportions. The pair took turns standing on a ladder

to work on the higher sections. “It wasn’t very stable, so it was a little hard to draw at the very top,” Caspar said. “But there’s not a ton

of detail that was needed for the top part.”

Devin and Caspar sketched their design with graphite pencils before finishing the project with acrylic paint. The pair wore headphones during the hours each day they spent painting. Caspar managed to finish his summer reading by listening to audio books.

When the mural was complete, the young artists and their families gathered to celebrate, and Devin and Caspar surprised their younger sisters by showing them the mural for the first time.

“They really, really cared about making it look amazing for all the kids at Armstrong,” Riley said. “You can tell they just have a big heart for their art.”

Riley said that the mural is a calming feature in the library. It creates a peaceful atmosphere and can be helpful for students who are having a tough day.

Colette said that she loves the colors on the trees and in the river. Friends see her brother’s name on the bottom of the mural and tell her that he has great handwriting or how much they like the painting.

Armstrong’s teachers, Colette said, remind their students that “we’re all eagles. We’re all in a big forest,” but until the mural arrived, she didn’t see any realistic-looking forests at her school.

“It’s the first forest,” she said. “If you get close to it, it’s actually like you’re in a forest.”

Huskies Throw Hyer and Balto a Birthday Bash With a Special Gift

By Sarah Hodges sarah.hodges@peoplenewspapers.com

Hyer Huskies marked their school’s milestone 75th birthday on Dec. 6 with party hats, songs, special guests, and a look back at the legacy of HPISD’s fourth elementary.

“This school belongs to you, and it also belongs to 75 years of students before you,” PTA president Ann Higginbottom told students. “You are part of a beautiful story in history, much bigger than yourselves.”

Higginbottom said that a new tree will be planted on school grounds in recognition of Hyer’s 75th year. Like the school’s young Huskies, the tree will grow tall and strong.

“This tree symbolizes the strong foundation that Hyer Elementary is built upon,” she said, “a legacy that will continue to bless families and children for generations to come.”

The students, who each received a birthday crown, then sang “Happy Birthday, Hyer.” They were led by the school’s mascot, Balto, who was also wearing a crown on one fluffy ear.

“Balto looks pretty good for 75, don’t you think?” Higginbottom asked shortly after the energetic and very coordinated mascot joined the celebration and began dancing for students while waving pom poms.

Hyer principal Debbie Burt thanked Higginbottom and the PTA for the school’s birthday gift. She remarked that many current students’ family members were once also Hyer Huskies.

“It’s just amazing to me always the generations of families who have been part of

Hyer and help make it what it is today,” she said after the assembly, adding that the recent turf installation on the school’s field was made possible by years of fundraising. “Every family that has been at Hyer has contributed to what we have been able to achieve.”

Students rushed to hug Balto after the assembly ended with a singing of the school song.

“This school belongs to you, and it also belongs to 75 years of students before you.” Ann Higginbottom

“I didn’t know that Hyer has been a thing for 75 years,” fourth grader Max Ramundt said. “That’s a long time.”

Students were joined at the celebration by district administrators, superintendent Mike Rockwood, and several members of the Board of Trustees.

Board member Doug Woodward said the community’s deep roots and legacy, and the HPISD alumni who return to the district to raise their own children, are reasons the area is so unique.

“I think the history of this is something that will mean a lot to the families,” he said, “as the kids age up and they make their decisions on bringing their kids back here as well.”

Caspar Curry and Devin Li have beautified Armstrong Elementary’s library with an 11-by-11 foot mural. MEGAN CURRY AND TIAN TANG

CLOCKWISE: Highland Park ISD Superintendent Mike Rockwood was a special guest at Hyer’s 75th birthday bash on Friday. Hyer students swarm school mascot Balton with hugs at the conclusion of a special assembly on Dec. 6 recognizing the school’s 75th birthday. Hyer teachers and staff pass out commemorative hats in honor of the school’s 75th birthday. CHRIS MCGATHEY

HPISD Hopes Legislators Up Funding, Accountability for School Finance

By Sarah Hodges sarah.hodges@peoplenewspapers.com

Highland Park ISD is hoping state lawmakers increase school funding and bring more transparency to the “shell game” of school finance during the 89th Legislative Session.

The district’s Board of Trustees approved six Legislative Priorities in November. At the top of the list is raising the Basic Allotment, or the amount of money Texas allocates toward education on a per-student basis.

The Texas Legislature hasn’t upped the Allotment since 2019. As a result, the state’s education spending in constant dollars has fallen by $9.8 billion since 2020, Missy Bender, executive director of the Texas School Coalition, told an audience of HPISD Board of Trustees members, administrators, and parents on Dec. 3.

That’s left Texas hovering in the bottom 10 states in per-student funding, even though it has the world’s ninth-largest economy.

Legislative action is required to change the Basic Allotment amount. Unless lawmakers raise the Allotment, more funds collected statewide through local property taxes won’t mean more money for schools. The state will just contribute less from other revenue sources to reach the requirement.

Another of HPISD’s priorities is placing recapture dollars collected from property wealthy school districts in “a separate, dedicated transparency fund” to ensure that they’re spent on projects related to public schools.

Bender likened recapture to a “shell game.” Right now, it’s hard to say where overflow dollars taken from HPISD to be sent to less

wealthy school districts end up.

“It’s one big pot,” she said, explaining that recaptured funds are intermingled with franchise and sales tax collections and other sources of state revenue. “You cannot track the dollar.”

The district would also like the Legislature to reinstate an early payment discount for recapture contributions, which Board of Trustees member Bryce Benson said could free up millions for staff salaries.

As for school vouchers, the district wants accountability standards to be consistent for all educational entities receiving public funds.

“I think our take was to recognize the political reality of our Legislators,” Board of Trustees president Maryjane Bonfield said.

The district’s other Legislative Priorities are revising ballot language to accurately inform voters and avoid confusion, as well as prohibiting the use of schools as polling locations during early voting.

“Our board adopted these six Legislative Priorities back in November, and our intention there was to be very strategic about what we felt was important for us as a school district, and to convey that to our community and the public,” Benson said at the Dec. 3 meeting.

He encouraged community members to share the district’s priorities with their representatives.

“When you see Morgan Meyer at Tom Thumb, or you see Tan Parker out, say, ‘Hey, the failure to increase the Basic Allotment is really detrimental to Highland Park,’” he said. “Without feeling any pain or pressure, there’s really never going to be any change.”

Grace Academy of Dallas is proud to celebrate 50 wonderful years! Since 1974, Grace Academy has been dedicated to serving Christian families throughout the metroplex. The anniversary festivities kicked off in the fall with a Celebration Chapel where Grace welcomed back the school founder, past leadership, families, friends, and alumni. The event included reflection on the past, praise and worship for the present, and outlined Grace Academy’s vision for the next 50 years. A special cheer presentation and student singing made the day even more special. We cannot wait to see what blessings are in store for Grace Academy’s bright future!

Debutantes Presented at Idlewild, Calyx, Terpsichorean Club Balls

The Idlewild Club kicked off the six-week debutante season in November by presenting five young women, all legacies with deep Dallas roots.

The Dallas social organization, founded by seven men in 1884, has presented more than 1,000 debutantes since its inception.

This year’s Dallas Debutants — most fifth and sixth generation Dallasites — are Delaney Compton McBee, Elly Donovan O’Brien, Elizabeth Roberts Thompson, Margaret Thompson, and Hallie Grace Weichsel.

After taking their full Texas bows during the Idlewood Club’s formal ball in November, the debutants are presented again by the Calyx Club in mid-December and the Terpsichorean Club in early January.

Their Idlewood escorts come mostly from the Park Cities and Preston Hollow.

Learn more about the debutants:

Delaney Compton McBee , the daughter of Carolyn and Michael McBee Jr., graduated from Highland Park High School. She is majoring in interior architecture and design at Academy of Art University, of San Francisco, and will graduate in May 2025. Her escort, Samuel Brannon Farrow, the son of Allison and Bob Farrow, enrolled at Texas A&M University after graduating from the Cambridge School of Dallas.

Elly Donovan O’Brien , the daughter of Caroline and Rick O’Brien, graduated from The Hockaday School. After graduating in May 2024 from Sewanee: The University of The South in Tennessee with a major

in psychology, she joined the Chief Executives Organization (CEO) in Washington DC., where she works as a coordinator. Her escort, Davis Field, the son of Susan and John Field, enrolled at the University of Texas after graduating from Lake Highlands High School.

Elizabeth Roberts Thompson, the daughter of Lee and David Thompson, and a graduate of the Cambridge School of Dallas. She is majoring in classics and minoring in history at Trinity University. Her escort, Thomas May, the son of Laura and Sterling May, enrolled at Texas A&M after graduating from Highland Park.

Margaret Thompson , the daughter of Shannon and Jodie Thompson, graduated from Hockaday. She graduated in May 2024 from Washington & Lee University with a major in cognitive & behavioral science. Her escort, Hill Washburne, the son of Heather and Ray Washburne, enrolled at SMU after graduating grom St. Mark’s School of Texas.

Hallie Grace Weichsel , the daughter of Christie and Christian Weichsel, graduated from Santa Fe Preparatory School in New Mexico. She will graduate from Texas Christian University in May 2025 with a communication major and sports fitness minor. Her escort, John Lancaster, the son of Gigi and Jim Lancaster, enrolled at Sewanee after graduating from Highland Park.

– Compiled by William Taylor

Storm Proof: Good Shepherd Getting New Multi-Purpose Gym

Good Shepherd Episcopal School’s $11 million Fit For Our Future fundraising campaign, which kicked off in August 2023, hit the 70 percent mark, clearing way for a December groundbreaking.

The campus will add a 14,983-square-foot multi-use space for physical education classes, sporting events, and school community gatherings.

“We are incredibly fortunate

to have the support of donors who believe in the transformative power of education and who are willing to invest in the future of our school,” campaign co-chair Calvert Collins-Bratton said.

“Our entire school community has contributed to the collective effort to build a stronger, more vibrant campus for our students.”

The project also will include an upgraded space for the school’s signature Classroom of the Earth

(COE) program, and the new gymnasium will serve as a Category 5 storm shelter.

Head of school Julie McLeod praised the work and vision of trustees and other campus leaders.

“We are thrilled to honor and celebrate the widespread community support for this project and the impact it will have on our campus and on our students,” she said.

– Compiled by William

Taylor

Campus leaders describe the groundbreaking on a new gym as a milestone for Good Shepherd — an independent school that has been inspiring children to learn with confidence, serve with compassion, and lead with courage since 1959. COURTESY GSESDALLAS.ORG

Hallie Grace Weichsel

JAMES FRENCH PHOTOGRAPHY

Margaret Thompson

Elizabeth Roberts Thompson

Elly Donovan O’Brien

Delaney Compton McBee

PIONEER WOMAN SHARES RECIPES FOR GIFT-GIVING SUCCESS

By Sarah Hodges sarah.hodges@peoplenewspapers.com

Ree Drummond, who’s known as “The Pioneer Woman” to fans, has 4.3 million followers on Instagram, stars in her own Food Network show, and has authored more than 20 books.

But nothing makes her happier than when someone tells her they love her meatloaf, and she still gets invited over for home cooking.

“I’m not Bobby Flay or Gordon Ramsay,” she told a sold-out crowd at the George W. Bush Presidential Center on Dec. 2. “I’m not even Martha Stewart. I’m Mabel Stewart. In some way, I think that could be why my cooking and my recipes appealed in the early days, and maybe even still.”

During a conversation moderated by lifestyle expert Kimberly Schlegel Whitman, Drummond’s stories ranged from the fun (matching Christmas pajamas for her family), to the funny (what to do when confused tourists wander into your home while you’re taking a bubble bath.)

Drummond shared holiday traditions, family memories, and stories about the early days of her blog, which began in 2006 with three readers, including her mom. By 2011, it was receiving 23.3 million page views each month, according to a 2019 article in Forbes

SENIOR LIVING

“I had only read one blog when I started blogging, so I didn’t have a lot of frame of reference,” Drummond said. “But what I just did was, I just wrote stories. A lot of them were a little self-deprecating, usually some funny angles.”

Some of that fun came from city-girl Drummond’s early experiences of ranch life. She grew up the daughter of an orthopedic surgeon, lived on a golf course, and attended college in Los Angeles before marrying her husband and relocating to

a town with a population of 3,500.

Her future brother-in-law, she said, tested her mettle by inviting her to drop by while they were working cattle, handing her a thermometer, and telling her to take the cows’ temperatures.

“I won’t go into any detail,” Drummond said to laughter from the audience.

Drummond went on to have four children, who she homeschooled and eventually featured in her Food Network show. Her

oldest daughter, Alex, and son-inlaw, Mauricio, were in the audience on Dec. 2, along with former First Lady Laura Bush.

In response to an audience question about what she would prepare for the Bushes if asked to cook them dinner, Drummond said the former President is in “my wheelhouse.”

The menu would include roasted beef tenderloin, really creamy mashed potatoes (think cream, butter, cream cheese, half and half, and whole milk), “some kind of

lava situation with ice cream,” and a homemade dinner roll, along with possibly a crème brûlée for the First Lady.

“I’m not Bobby Flay or Gordon Ramsey. I’m not even Martha Stewart. I’m Mabel Stewart.” Ree Drummond

Drummond said she’s excited about her affordable product line at Walmart, where she grew up shopping. She also shared ideas for holiday gifts. Top picks included cinnamon rolls, her favorite perfume, and whatever the giftee loves, in bulk. Drummond said she once gave her husband 125 gift-wrapped pots of his favorite Carmex lip balm.

“I cannot imagine my life having gone in a different direction,” she said. “I wouldn’t have a blog. I don’t think any of this would have happened. I don’t know what I would have written about.”

Changing With Age: Should I Be Concerned It’s Dementia?

The holidays prompt many of us to spend time with our extended family – sometimes including relatives you may not have seen in years.

Maybe you noticed changes in a loved one and thought, “Should I be concerned?” or even, “Do they have dementia?”

These are important questions, but before we go further, it is important to know what dementia is.

Dementia is an “umbrella” term that describes a group of brain diseases that affect a person’s cognitive ability enough to interfere with their daily activities. Similar to how we say “cancer” which may be liver cancer, leukemia or numerous others, “dementia” is a general term that encompasses many brain diseases. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, but there are many others, such as frontotemporal dementia, Lewy

body dementia, and Parkinson’s to name a few. The Cleveland Clinic estimates that approximately 50% of people aged 85 or older have dementia.

Since memory loss is the most common symptom, let’s look at a couple of other symptoms that are important indicators of dementia to help differentiate between typical and concerning behavior.

Poor reasoning and judgment

Let’s say your uncle gets a phone call from Claire, a salesperson calling to sell a new roof due to hail damage. During the sales pitch, Claire asks for his bank account number and login information saying she needs to verify credit.

Normal Behavior: Those with sound reasoning realize the roofing company may need a down payment, but not their banking information. Realizing it’s a scam, they hang up.

Concerning behavior: A person with dementia has compromised reasoning and cannot differentiate between a reasonable

request and this red flag. They give their bank information and get scammed.

Changes in mood or behavior

Grandma has always been easygoing. At the holiday dinner, one of her grandchildren makes the mistake of saying her turkey is terrible.

“The Cleveland Clinic estimates that approximately 50% of people aged 85 or older have dementia.”

Normal behavior: Grandma lets them know she’s been cooking great turkey since before they were born, and that it is not polite to insult the cook.

Concerning behavior: Grandma screams at the grandchild and throws her

napkin at them. Then to everyone’s shock, she continues and makes an inappropriate comment about her daughter’s husband. These are just two of many non-memory issues associated with dementia.

If your family needs support for an older loved one living with dementia, contact The Senior Source’s Caregiver Support Program at 214-823-5700 or csp@theseniorsource.org.

Kimberly Knight, caregiver support program director at The Senior Source, holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Texas at Arlington and is a Certified Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Trainer (CADDCT) and Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP).

LEARN MORE

Visit theseniorsource.org/dementia for information about multiple programs that help serve seniors with dementia. The North Texas nonprofit assist more than 25,000 seniors and their families each year, offering financial guidance, advice on longterm care facilities, and ways to connect with others through volunteerism.

Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond talks holiday traditions, family favorites, and her early days as a blogger with lifestyle expert Kimberly Schlegel Whitman. COURTESY GEORGE W. BUSH PRESIDENTIAL CENTER, BRAD NEWTON

KIMBERLY KNIGHT

College Filmmaker Explores Grandmother’s Gratifying Life Inspiring short documentary project showcases joys of assisted living

By Daniel Lalley

Special Contributor

For Roylenne Huff, a resident of The Preston of the Park Cities, retirement hasn’t exactly been synonymous with slowing down.

From her busy fitness schedule to movie nights and mealtimes, this Dallas senior is taking advantage of all her senior living community offers.

“I learned that it’s so worth it to just have time to sit down with your loved ones and hear about their lives and experiences.” Jesse Heller

“They take excellent care of me and allow me to live a full life,” Roylenne said. “I keep a very busy schedule. I exercise just about every day. The people here are just wonderful, and I’ve been able to make friends just by being a part of so much.”

Roylenne’s gratifying life was the subject of a short documentary shot and directed by granddaughter Jesse Heller.

“I was assigned a project for my 4D class at

college, and we had to choose someone to interview,” Jesse said. “I go to school in Rochester, but when I saw the assignment overlapped with Thanksgiving break, I knew I wanted to interview my grandma when I was back home in Dallas. She has such a positive outlook on life and has a really funny and sweet personality that I knew would translate well on camera.”

The documentary covers a day with Roylenne, revealing the vibrant and fulfilling life she enjoys. It invites audiences to reflect on their own relationships with seniors while underscoring the positive impacts intergenerational relationships can provide.

“I learned that it’s so worth it to just have time to sit down with your loved ones and hear about their lives and experiences,” Jesse said. “I loved all the little stories she told me throughout filming and am glad I was able to get to know her better.”

The project also highlights the civility, compassion, and care shown to Roylenne by the community she now calls home, potentially changing the way many may perceive the standards of modern senior living facilities.

“I didn’t necessarily go into this project with the intention of changing perceptions,” Jesse said. “I just wanted to communicate how much the Preston has helped my grandma on a personal level. But I do know that many seniors have fears about losing their freedom or being mis-cared for due to horror stories about assisted living homes. Maybe through my grandma’s personal experience, they could see that they’re not all bad and that you just have to find your perfect fit.”

What are the options for senior living? How can you be sure the standards remain high? What if your parents have different needs? What if those needs change?

At Belmont Village, we understand each situation is unique. Our experienced advisors will listen to your family’s story, then help you consider the questions you need for the answers they deserve. So you can confidently navigate the options from active adult to memory care and know what to look for in terms of management, food, care, and accommodations for couples with differing needs.

Our advisors are here to help. Just ask. BelmontVillage.com/JustAsk | 214-306-7687

Roylenne Huff tells her filmmaking granddaughter about her love of bingo, chicken salad, and favorite singers Patsy Cline and Taylor Swift. SCREENGRABS FROM JESSE HELLER

CHECK IT OUT

Use this QR code to check out the short video.

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Father’s Fatal Heart Attack Motivates Miss Park Cities Sarah Swift advocates for health education with children’s book

By Colton Stroud People Newspapers

Sarah Swift began splitting her time between Colorado and Texas two years ago.

She had already found success in Colorado’s pageant circuit and even briefly held the Miss Colorado 2023 title after the reigning Miss Colorado advanced to become Miss America.

Now, as Miss Park Cities 2025, Swift is eager to use her platform to raise awareness about issues important to her and make a meaningful impact in her community.

Swift’s journey in pageantry began in fifth grade when she was inspired by meeting a former Miss Colorado.

Despite her accomplishments in Colorado, Swift was initially hesitant about competing in Texas.

“I saw Miss Texas as almost kind of intimidating because it’s so big here, and the organization is so well established,” Swift said.

After encouragement from Miss Texas 2024, Annette Addo-Yobo, Swift decided to take the plunge.

“I signed up pretty last minute, but I just had to trust my gut,” Swift said. “And then I won, which was crazy.”

Swift balances her role as Miss Park Cities with her studies at SMU, where she majors in fashion media and minors in advertising.

As Miss Park Cities, Swift’s focus is her advocacy campaign, Happy Hearts, which

promotes heart health and aims to teach heart disease prevention in a fun and easy way.

Swift lost her father to a heart attack at just 6. Ever since, she has been acutely aware of her heart health, getting tested annually for potential risk factors.

“I think when a lot of people think about

heart disease, they picture people that don’t live an active lifestyle, and they picture people that are older than them,” Swift said. “Kids aren’t really taught that everyone is essentially at risk for heart disease.”

In Colorado, she spoke to thousands of elementary students. In Texas, she’s hoping

to expand her reach with a children’s book, Hank the Heart, which explains heart function in a kid-friendly way.

Two weeks after being crowned, Swift joined the 2024 Dallas Heart Walk, marking her seventh Heart Walk overall. She hopes to also participate in the Denver Heart Walk next year.

“Kids aren’t really taught that everyone is essentially at risk for heart disease.”

Sarah Swift

“I got to sit in on some legislative meetings talking about heart health and what steps Colorado was taking for heart care,” Swift said. “I’m interested to see and have a similar experience here in Texas.”

Swift hopes to deepen her relationship with the American Heart Association and attend many of the organization’s major events. The Todd Swift Memorial Fund she created in her father’s honor has raised more than $1,000 to support the AHA.

Eventually, she wants to turn Happy Hearts into a nonprofit.

“To anybody even considering competing for a local within the Miss Texas organization, I would say just do it,” Swift said. “Don’t be afraid of rejection; every rejection might just be a redirection for preparing you to become a better leader for the future.”

Winter Menu: Chase Away The Chill One Bite At A Time

As much as I love quick meals, once winter settles in, I relish dishes that result from slow cooking.

The low temperature, longer cooking time on the stovetop, in the oven, or slow cooker, yields deeply flavored dishes while filling my kitchen with savory aromas. Slow cooking also tenderizes less expensive cuts of meat like chuck roast, pork shoulder, and short ribs, as well as dense cuts like lamb shanks.

The key to slow-cooking success is braising – a technique that combines searing and liquid. This easy technique produces meats that are fall-off-the-bone tender bathed in a rich sauce.

Searing the meat in oil browns it and provides the foundation for a savory sauce. Brown bits from the meat stick to the bottom of the pot and yield flavor that is ab-

Braised Lamb Shanks Ingredients:

4 lamb shanks

2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil

1 large sweet onion, peeled and coarsely chopped

4 large carrots, rinsed, peeled, and

sorbed by chopped carrots, celery, and onion that are added once the meat is browned.

Next, a braising liquid goes in the pot which can be water, broth, or wine. Just be sure the wine is one you would drink. Nothing

until the meat becomes fork-tender and the liquid transforms into a savory elixir.

One of my favorite slow cooked meals is braised lamb shanks. Because shanks are a tougher cut than the roast, they benefit from slow cooking in red wine, flavored

Season the lamb with salt and pepper before searing, but because braising concentrates flavors, wait until the final half hour of cooking before adding more salt.

So, bring on the cold weather because braising your next meal will chase away the chill one bite at a time.

red potatoes, rinsed

Directions:

Preheat a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add olive oil, and swirl to coat the bottom of the

destroys a sauce quicker than cheap wine.

One that retails for $12 to $15 is ideal.

After stirring brown bits into the liquid, return the meat and fresh herbs to the pot, cover, bring it to a simmer, and cook slowly

pot. Season lamb with salt and pepper, transfer to the pot, and sear, without turning, until brown on one side. Turn and cook shanks until dark brown on all sides, about 20 minutes. If all the lamb shanks do not fit in the pot, cook half of them, remove to a platter, and cook the remainder. Remove lamb from the pot, add onions and carrots, and saute 2 minutes. Add garlic and saute 1 minute.

Deglaze the pan with red wine, scraping brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in beef stock and tomato

Christy Rost is a cookbook author, host of Celebrating Home cooking videos, and longtime Park Cities and Preston Hollow resident. Her ‘At Home with Christy Rost’ cooking series for Eat This TV Network airs on AmazonFire, AppleTV+, Roku, Samsung TV, and YouTube. Visit christyrost.com for details and recipes.

paste. Return lamb to the pot. Add bay leaves and sprigs of thyme and rosemary tied together with string. Bring the pot to a low boil, cover, and simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the meat is very tender and almost falls off the bone, about 2½ hours. Add a little more wine or beef stock to the pot as needed. During the final 45 minutes of cooking, add red potatoes to the pot and cook until they are knife-tender.

Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Sarah Swift encourages others to learn CPR and support fundraisers like the Heart Walk. SCOTT PADGETT AND COURTESY HEART.ORG

CHRISTY ROST

CHRISTY

ROST

Home.

What a year! 2024 was record breaking for the Meredith Ferrell Group, and it’s all thanks to YOU—our incredible clients, friends, and family! We’re so grateful for your trust and excited for the year ahead. We believe 2025 will be another impactful year for the Dallas real estate market and we are ready for it!

We love what we do and with our experience and proven results, we’re ready to help you find the perfect home for the new year!

Meredith Ferrell | meredith.ferrell@compass.com | 214.868.1177 | mferrellhomes

Brenda Ray | brenda.ray@compass.com | 214.864.9070 | brendaraydallas

BETSY BUZZINI TYSON

Betsy Buzzini Tyson was born at Florence Nightingale Hospital in Dallas, TX, February 13, 1948. It was Friday the 13th, so she thought that it was her lucky day. She lived her childhood in Highland Park on Belclaire Ave. She graduated from Highland Park High School in 1966. She attended SMU and was a member of Pi Beta Phi. She later graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with a Bachelor of Arts in history and education. She returned to Dallas as a single mother with her daughters , Tracy and Elizabeth, and started a career in real estate. She founded her own property management company. She married Knox Tyson in 1993, and later moved to Salado, TX where she retired.

JANICE WOOTTEN BOND

Janice Wootten Bond, 83, of Dallas, Texas passed peacefully on November 18, 2024. Janice was born in Chickasha, Oklahoma on November 25, 1940 to John and Marion Wootten and moved as a young girl to Clayton, New Mexico where she grew up on her Family’s ranch and graduated from high school. After a year at Mills College in 1958 in Oakland, California, she transferred to the University of Oklahoma, where she received her BFA in Music and was an active member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority.

While at OU, Janice met and married Myron Humphrey Bond, with whom she celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary this year. They have been residents of Highland Park for the last 52 years. She is survived by Myron and their two very special children – Richard Allen Bond, who lives in

Betsy had a beautiful life with Knox and lots of dogs. She will always be known for her generosity, kindness, and reaching out to those in need. Her love of acting led her to the Salado Theater, where she became sought after for roles. Her love of home décor, arts and crafts and color made her a larger-than-life personality. She was so very loved and will be greatly missed.

Betsy Tyson of Salado passed away early Monday morning on November 18, 2024, peacefully at home surrounded by loving family and friends.

She is survived by her loving husband Knox Tyson; daughters: Ellizabeth Kinnison of San Antonio and Tracy Davis of Dallas; stepson, John Tyson and stepdaughter, DeeDee Hoak; granddaughters: Audrey Kinnison and May Davis; siblings: Peter Buzzini and Carol Simmons, both of Houston.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Elizabeth and Robert Peter Buzzini.

Services were held Monday, November 25th, at Broecker Funeral Home Chapel, Salado, TX with Tom Lathen, presiding. The burial was in the Historic Salado Cemetery.

Frisco with his wife, Catherine, and daughters Grace, Savannah, and Morgan; and Lori Bond Weathers, who resides in Santa Barbara, California with her husband, Alex, and daughters Ella and Cameron. Some of Janice’s favorite memories were of the many family trips over the years.

Music, OU football, and Tri Delt remained a large part of Janice’s life. She played organ in several churches and attended countless Sooner games over the past 60 years. Her other passion was volunteer work, including prominent roles with Tri Delt Charity Antiques Show and the PTA at Bradfield Elementary and McCullough Middle Schools.

For many years she also enjoyed actively participating in the Athenaeum Book Club, the Mary K. Craig Class, the Dallas Country Club and as a Board member of the Dallas Woman’s Club. In recent years, she worked as a volunteer with Love Thy Baby to provide baby clothing for families in need in the DFW area.

Janice requested no funeral service, but thanks all her good friends for their many shared cherished and fond memories.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Love Thy Neighbor.

ALLIE BETH ALLMAN URBAN

2300 Wolf St. #8BC Residences at the Stoneleigh $6,975,000

Listed by Allie Beth Allman, Sanders Averea & Kyle Crews

This exquisite custom high-rise home features the finest of finishes. Direct access

elevator opens to a spectacular entry foyer reminiscent of Park Avenue, with lacquered privacy doors and walls along with limestone flooring. The gourmet kitchen, designed by Christopher Peacock, features handcrafted cabinetry and custom hardware that compliments the hand cut Ann Sachs tile backsplash. Cambria Borgini marble and Stone Smith countertops.The spacious primary suite has custom his and her bathrooms, featuring Zanger tile. A large, covered terrace accessible by hideaway sliding doors from the living area and is landscaped with custom faux plants, to remain. Three additional terraces are accessible from one of two studies as well as the guest suite & her master bath. Residence 8BC includes a private three-car garage adjacent two additional parking spaces, all located in a controlled access underground parking garage. Truly a one-of-a-kind, stunning home.

BELMONT VILLAGE TURTLE CREEK Uncompromised Care, Unparalleled Hospitality

Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care with the added support of around-the-clock nursing, medication management, on-site therapy, and award-winning programming.

Rigorous health and safety standards and programming adapted for social distancing have meant that residents continue to thrive. Residents stay fit in a heated pool and fitness center, are active in engaging programs and enjoy dining with neighbors. Every Belmont Village community is licensed to the highest level throughout, making it ideal for couples, and its specially trained staff works to find the right blend of care to support any lifestyle. Schedule a tour with Belmont Village today at 214-306-7687 to learn more. belmontvillage.com/turtlecreek

Great spaces for all your gatherings

From expansive dining rooms to cozy family rooms, these Allie Beth Allman & Associates listings are perfect homes for gathering.

The experts at Allie Beth Allman & Associates know how important great gathering spaces are for the families when they are searching for the perfect home.

Here are a few homes with excellent entertaining spaces to consider.

Guests will be thrilled with the elegant living and dining rooms in a classic English stone

manor at 3705 Dartmouth Ave. in Highland Park. This five-bedroom, three-story home blends sophisticated living with modern amenities. The front hallway leads to a dining room with a gorgeous chandelier and to the family room with its own fireplace. French doors create a wonderful indoor-outdoor flow.

The residence at 4121 Amherst Ave. in University Park was built in 2007 and has been lived in by only one owner. This timeless, transitional-style home has a cozy living room and family room that have large, carved fireplaces.

Ceilings on the first floor are 11 feet with tall windows and herringbone-patterned wood flooring. The covered patio includes a grilling station and overlooks a manicured lawn.

Allie Beth Allman & Associates agents continue to sell more homes at the luxury level – considered $3 million and higher – in Dallas County and across DFW, according to Multiple Listing Service Statistics. Connect with an expert agent: https:// www.alliebeth.com/roster/Agents

or email: Angel0366@hotmail.com

With over 25 years of service in the Texas, Belmont Village Senior Living is a trusted choice for seniors and their families. Belmont Village Turtle Creek offers

ALLIE BETH ALLMAN

ALLIE BETH ALLMAN

DFW to be top real estate market in 2025

Navigate the 2025 real estate market with the help of an Allie Beth Allman & Associates agent.

U.S. real estate agents agree: North Texas will be the nation’s top market for investment in 2025.

As Allie Beth Allman & Associates reported in its weekly Allmanac, PricewaterhouseCoopers and the Urban Land Institute queried more

Buyers love West Highland Park for its convenient location and block-by-block charm, say agents with Allie Beth Allman & Associates.

West Highland Park is a small, residential pocket where each block has its own character and charm.

Only a 10-minute drive away from downtown, this community on the Dallas North Tollway is filled with hidden gems,

than 2,000 real estate experts nationally for its annual Emerging Trends in Real Estate forecast.

The Dallas-Fort Worth region ranked third nationally this year and has been in the Top 10 for the past six years. But next year, it is projected to be number one for real estate investment because of its stability, affordability, continued population and job growth and economic diversity, the report predicts.

In the Dallas area, the National Association of Realtors says that Hispanic homeownership rate has grown to nearly 20 percent, larger than any other non-Anglo ethnic groups. Hispanic home ownership is expected to climb.

With its GDP of $2.8 trillion, Texas ranks eighth among the world’s economies and shows no signs of slowing. At the same time, the region’s real estate has remained more affordable than other large metro areas.

To receive the Allmanac weekly, ask your Allie Beth Allman & Associates agent to help you subscribe.

EBBY HALLIDAY

DFW Named Nation’s Hottest Real Estate Market for 2025

Dallas-Fort Worth has claimed the top spot as the best U.S. market for real estate investment and development in 2025, according to the Emerging Trends in Real Estate report by PriceWaterhouseCoopers and the Urban Land Institute. This accolade highlights D-FW’s growth, affordability, and economic diversity, making it a standout among U.S. metros.

Charming 1929 Home in HPISD Updated to Perfection

Don’t miss the opportunity to make this delightful home at 2932 Fondren Drive (2932fondren.daveperrymiller.com) your own. Perfectly situated on a quiet, tree-lined street, this gem is just moments from SMU, the George W. Bush Presidential Library, and the vibrant shopping and dining of Snider Plaza. It’s listed by the Elliott & Elliott Group for $1,925,000.

including redone cottages and a variety of newly constructed two-story homes.

The experts at Allie Beth Allman & Associates know West Highland Park well and can guide you to the perfect home. It might be one of these exceptional homes.

Dreaming of owning a mid-century modern home? Take a tour of a three-bedroom gem at 5332 Edmondson Ave.

It greets you and your guests with a water feature and lush landscaping. Inside, the open living room has a marble-clad fireplace, and the primary bedroom suite has a sitting area and a spa-like bath.

The four-bedroom home at 4624 S. Versailles Ave. is typical of the homes that are changing West Highland Park into a sought-after community. Built in 2019, it has a dramatic double entrance with herringbone hardwood flooring.

The home features an open, eat-in kitchen that has a bar and wine storage, as well as butler’s and walk-in pantries. The backyard lends itself to entertaining with a loggia that has a fireplace and automated screens.

with Allie Beth

lead in the sale of homes priced at $3 million and higher across DFW, according to the Multiple Listing Service.

Trust the experts at Allie Beth Allman & Associates to move your Preston Hollow home quickly and at the best price.

The brokerage’s team of experts is a luxury home leader selling more homes priced at $3 million and higher across North Texas,

according to the Multiple Listing Service.

Allie Beth Allman & Associates agents recently sold these fabulous Preston Hollow homes. Connect with an agent to talk about getting your home ready to list in 2025.

The French-style estate at 5100 Brookview Drive in the heart of Old Preston Hollow sits on a 1.5-acre lot and has a private guest cabana, pool and pickleball court. Inside, the home features arched doorways and expansive galleries.

In 2020, the owners of a three-bedroom ranch-style home at 7148 Royal Lane added a bedroom, a multi-purpose family room and many upgrades in a home that sits on a private lake. The primary suite has a bath, two large walk-in closets and great views of the lake.

The five-bedroom, Hill Country-style home at 5415 Palomar Lane has four living areas in almost 6,500 square feet of living space. It has a large pool and deck, perfect for entertaining or relaxing. It also features a wine cellar.

The region’s strong post-pandemic recovery and demographic growth have propelled DFW into the top 10 for six consecutive years. Total employment has grown by 11.2% since 2020, and with 23 Fortune 500 companies, DFW boasts one of the highest concentrations of major corporations in the country. This combination of job opportunities and economic diversity continues to attract both new residents and businesses.

Dallas has seen its median home price climb 38% since early 2020. With annualized five- and 10-year real estate returns among the best in the nation, DFW remains a top choice for investors.

Dallas-Fort Worth’s momentum and market resilience underscore its strength and longevity as a prime destination. If you’re looking to navigate the nation’s No. 1 real estate market, trust the No. 1 company to guide you. To connect with an agent who’s invested in your success, visit ebby.com.

ALLIE BETH ALLMAN

‘Tis the season to buy in the Park Cities

home in the Park Cities

If you’re drawn to the Park Cities, these pristine offerings with Allie Beth Allman & Associates are prime options to consider.

A stunning residence exuding minimalist, modern sensibilities awaits at 3501 University Blvd. Designed by SHM, built by Tatum Brown, and styled by Morgan Farrow, the 6,669-squarefoot home offers a vast open floor plan. From wellness enthusiasts to golf lovers, there is something for everyone to love here.

The white kitchen at 3836 Villanova St. is a chef’s dream that opens effortlessly to the light-filled family room and wet bar, making it the definitive heart of the home. You can step right outside from here and sip coffee in front of the covered patio’s fireplace with the glistening pool and spa in view.

If you want something completely new, check out 3420 Centenary Ave. This sophisticated masterpiece by Ellen Grasso & Sons is under construction and set to be finished in 2026. The expansive abode will have five bedrooms, elegant spaces ready for gathering, and a dreamy backyard oasis.

In Highland Park, 3705 Dartmouth Ave. is a vision of classic, English-style architecture. Inside, transitional and vibrant style unfolds across gracious rooms. Come summertime, the pool and spa outside will beckon for relaxation.

The rare forward setback creates a backyard oasis with a pool, lush gardens, and a detached garage, while the covered front porch welcomes you inside. Enjoy timeless architectural details like arched doorways, hardwood floors, and original French doors, paired with modern updates for effortless living. The renovated kitchen and oversized den provide seamless spaces for entertaining, all overlooking the great outdoors. Upstairs, the luxurious primary suite boasts a spalike bath and walk-in closet, complemented by two spacious bedrooms with a charming shared bath.

Overflowing with character and convenience, this 2,464-square-foot home is ready to become yours.

To schedule a showing, contact Paige or Curt Elliott at 214-478-9544 or elliott@dpmre.com.

Dave Perry-Miller Real Estate (dpmre.com) is a division of the Ebby Halliday Companies, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, specializing in Preston Hollow, Park Cities, North Dallas, Lakewood, East Dallas, Uptown, Kessler Park, and Farm & Ranch properties.

THE PERRY-MILLER STREIFF GROUP Landmark Home Backing to the Dallas Country Club

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with the help of an Allie Beth Allman & Associates agent.

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North Dallas students are excelling in creative lessons that combine science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics.

Greenhill students inspired to invent

SCOTS PROBE ROBOTIC SURGERY, MEDICAL MYTHS, FLIGHT

By Sarah Hodges sarah.hodges@peoplenewspapers.com

Do you wonder what it’s like to be a cancer researcher, or how medical students train to use robotic surgical systems? Ever thought about flying for the Air Force, developing the next hit video game, or building a safer highway?

“I’m hoping that at some point in the future, somebody goes, ‘I remember that,’ and it changes what they choose to do with their life.”

John Wallace

Highland Park High School students had a chance to explore these careers and many more in the fields of science, technology, engineering, medicine, and research during the school’s annual Science & Technology Festival.

Seventy industry leaders donated their time to make the 18th annual festival a success. Students chose to attend a session that sparked their interest during their regularly scheduled science and technology classes.

“I hope it was fun and engaging, and that students were able to find potential careers to explore for their future,” said Kimberly Slade, who co-chaired the event with Michele Vicente.

The chairs worked to involve parents and alumni, to increase the variety of speakers, and to introduce

their skill at the system’s training simulator and sat in the surgeon console themselves. Their surgery was less high-stakes; they were challenged to manipulate the da Vinci’s four arms to put tiny rubber bands onto colorful, pinkie-sized mounds.

“Uh-oh, you got it mad,” Davis jokingly told freshman Isabel Carvalho as the robot made a low beeping sound while she aimed the rubber bands.

students to careers they might not have previously considered, Slade said. The festival was made possible by support from presenting sponsor La Fiesta de las Seis Banderas and the Highland Park Education Foundation.

In the high school’s auditorium on Nov. 18, Daniel G. Davis, chief of bariatric surgery at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, introduced students to the fifth generation of the da Vinci robotic surgical system, which he

said arrived at Baylor this summer.

Davis showed students a video of a sleeve gastrectomy, a weight loss surgery which decreases the stomach’s size from that of a football to a large banana.

Then, the high schoolers tried

Two floors above Davis, oral and maxillofacial surgeon John Wallace took on the myth that drinking pineapple juice before a wisdom tooth extraction reduces inflammation after surgery.

Pineapples, he explained, contain an anti-inflammatory agent. But patients would need to eat 420 pounds of the fruit for it to have an effect.

Wallace also introduced students to the X-Guide system, technology he uses daily to place dental implants. He explained how the device worked before giving students a chance to handle the drill themselves.

“I’m hoping that at some point in the future, somebody goes, ‘I remember that,’ and it changes what they choose to do with their life,” Wallace said. “It tickles something in their brain, and, wow, they get motivated to do something.”

In another classroom, HPHS junior Raleigh Jewell, who said he’s interested in a career in the Air Force, listened to a presentation from Boeing 767 first officer and Air Force reservist Kevin Gibbs.

“I think that it definitely gives a little bit more perspective of what goes and on and what he’s done career-wise,” Jewell said, explaining that he’s now even more interested in an Air Force career. “It gives me a better perspective of a day in the life.”

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Scots take a seat in the surgeon console of the fifth generation of the da Vinci robotic surgical system. Students test the X-Guide system. Boeing 767 first officer and Air Force reservist Kevin Gibbs speaks with students. Dr. Stacey Hail shares stories of real emergency room cases, including some involving poisons, drugs, and murder mysteries. CHRIS MCGATHEY

Learn more about our 100 + choice schools and programs during a Discover Dallas ISD Virtual session!

HIGHLAND PARK ISD

STEAM

Larry Lavine, HP Alum and founder of Chili’s Restaurants advises MAPS Business Design and Leadership students on a restaurant research project.

ELEMENTARY

All our elementary schools are equipped with unique spaces where our youngest students participate in dynamic STEAM activities throughout the year.

INTERMEDIATE & MIDDLE

Our 5th-8th grade students have a wide range of opportunities to pursue STEAM topics including Engineering, Coding, Robotics and Digital Media.

The MAPS program, known for its innovative approach to education, is excited to partner with the MoneyGram-Haas F1 team. This collaboration offers students unique opportunities to work on real-world projects with professionals from Formula 1 which has grown from a minor sport to a multibillion-dollar enterprise thanks to its highspeed thrills, technological advances, and renowned drivers.

MOODY ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL STUDIES @ HPHS

Where can High School students have authentic learning experiences from outstanding teachers and industry experts?

Right here in the MAPS Program at HPHS. Our classes include Business Design and Leadership, Environmental Architecture, Brain Science and Health, Engineering Design, Modern Media, and Sports Analytics.

Pictured Above: Students with MoneyGramHAAS F1 Driver Kevin Magnussen at the MAPS Race to Innovation Event.

Robotics Team Gobbles Up the Competition in Turkey Showdown

By Sarah Hodges sarah.hodges@peoplenewspapers.com

A team of young roboticists from Magikid Highland Park catapulted over the competition this November to bring home a win in the VEX IQ Robotics Competition Turkey Showdown.

The team’s five members — McCulloch Intermediate students Hayden Ernst and Donovan Moore, St. Mark’s School of Texas student Eason Lu, University Park Elementary student Connor Moore, and homeschooled student Miken Mompremier — finished first overall out of 26 teams in the competition. They also shared the Teamwork Champion award and captured the Robot Skills Champion award.

This was just Team Capybara’s second competition, and the first for their robot, Womp Womp. The team competed with another robot, Tom, earlier this year before a redesign that improved Womp Womp’s ability to play VEX IQ’s Rapid Relay game.

During the game, Womp Womp was challenged to pass and shoot balls through four goals arranged in stacks of two. The team advanced through multiple rounds of competition, and each lasted just 60 seconds.

In the Teamwork Challenge,

“You can’t just stick with the same design and expect to get much better gradually.” Miken Mompremier

Womp Womp had to cooperate with a robot from a different team to pass the ball and move it through the goal. In another round, Womp Womp needed to move autonomously through the course without direction from its human programmers. A third challenge tested the team’s ability to remotely maneuver Womp Womp.

Team members used creative coding to prepare for the game. Along the way, they worked to improve Womp Womp’s catapult, which was key to reaching the top goals and scoring more points.

When team members found that a motor kept working to lower the catapult even after Womp Womp was ready to score

again, they programmed their robot to sense the catapult’s position and stop the motor, Eason explained. The game’s rules require robots to start by touching a border wall. But Hayden had the idea to create an extendable arm that snaps back onto the robot once it begins moving, enabling Womp

Womp to start closer to the center of the court.

Donovan used coding to solve the problem of drift, an issue created because Womp Womp’s wheels can turn in any direction without having to rotate.

Team members learned about all aspects of their robot, but each specialized in their own role. They took robotics classes at Magikid Highland Park before preparing to compete.

The members of Team Capybara said they now practice and refine their robot for at least seven hours each week. In the process, they’ve learned the value of continually improving their design.

“You can’t just stick with the same design and expect to get much better gradually,” Miken said. “You can get good to a certain amount with this design, but there’s always something better.“

Now, the members of Team Capybara have their eye on a spot in the VEX Robotics World Championship this spring. They’re hoping to earn a ticket by performing well at their next competition, a top-tier event in Florida. But their upcoming trip to the “Fun in the Sun Signature Event” won’t be all hard work.

In addition to snagging a “golden ticket,” Connor said, he hopes to “go to Disneyworld!”

Team Capybara competes at the VEX IQ Robotics Competition Turkey Showdown. COURTESY MAGIKID HIGHLAND PARK

The Hockaday School Teaches Science With a Purpose

At The Hockaday School, middle school students combine science and social impact in a special project beginning in the seventh grade.

Students visit the Joppa neighborhood in Dallas and partner with Joppy Momma’s Farm to test soil and water to offer remediation solutions.

As eighth graders, students grow microgreens in class as part of their investigation of Earth’s biosphere and ecosystems.

“By growing microgreens for Joppy Momma’s Farm, the students are doing science with a purpose.” Peggy Cagle

As students grow the greens, they learn the science of plant growth, practice scientific inquiry skills, and gain a deeper understanding of nutrients in food. Students study the stages of germination, the conditions necessary for germination, how to use

various laboratory tools to collect data, how to formulate scientific conclusions based in evidence, and how to evaluate uncertainty in experimental results. Students explore how and why a

seed germinates, including why water and exposure to air are important as well as how a germinating seed gets energy before it can get energy from photosynthesis.

Partnering with Hockaday’s

Asian Mint, owned by Hockaday alumna Nikky Phinyawatana, class of ‘96.

Proceeds from the sale are used to expand the farm, which produces fresh, nutritious foods and makes it more readily available to the neighborhood.

“It’s important for students to understand the connection between what they are learning and the real world,” said director of innovation and collaboration Laura Day. “This partnership does that and creates a social impact.”

Science Department chair Peggy Cagle sees the project fitting seamlessly within the curriculum.

Dr. William B. Dean Institute for Social Impact, students then donate the microgreens to Joppy Momma’s Farm, where farmers sell them to restaurants including Cafe Momentum and

“By growing microgreens for Joppy Momma’s Farm, the students are doing science with a purpose,” Cagle said. “Not only do they learn about the science of plant growth and practice inquiry skills, but they also see how their learning can have a positive impact. Our students also love watching the microgreens grow, then tend to them meticulously, and they are excited about the opportunity to visit local restaurants and taste their own products.”

–Compiled by Claudia Carson-Habeeb

your creativity

TOP, FROM LEFT: Joppy Farm’s Kim High with Hockaday students Claire Morris, Anya Hegde, and Yihan Sun. BOTTOM: Chloe Ku and Hollis Wrighton. COURTESY HOCKADAY

MODELS, EXPOS, EGG DROPS, INVENTIONS,

AND HAIKUS

Area schools explore a variety of ways to prompt 21st century learning

STEM education isn’t just about teaching science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to students of all ages.

It’s also about combining those subjects — often adding art for STEAM — to engage student interest in the technical and design skills needed for jobs in the 21st century.

This roundup of area examples is but a sampling of how STEM/STEAM learning is unfolding on campuses near you.

The Compass School of Texas

A second-grade class’s heart studies began with a well-known spider.

The book Charlotte’s Web sparked the curiosity of students tasked with exploring “heartwarming tales” before turning inward aided by a Compass parent with expertise in the blood-pumping organ.

Dr. Matthew Dickson provided insight into cardiovascular disease and nuclear cardiology, leading to health and wellness lessons focused on what makes a heart healthy.

Students looked at nutrition and physical activity to understand the impact of diet and exercise.

The school’s farm-to-table program’s hands-on food curriculum paired the students’ participation in gardening with creating and eating foods that are delicious and healthy.

Organ studies continued in art class, where students worked with their teacher to create a three-foot labelled heart.

In math, they designed a game to study the flow of red and white blood cells, moving pieces through the body, and adding ones on their way to the heart.

For English, the students wrote essays and showcased them for parents and grandparents. Their guests encountered hanging blood vessels and cells and so experienced entering into “the heart of the lesson.”

Dallas ISD

Texas’ second largest school district, unsurprisingly, tackles STEAM learning in huge ways.

Dallas ISD is home to the largest STEM Expo in Texas, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in February 2024 at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center.

The 2025 expo is scheduled Jan. 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Fair Park.

District leaders describe it as more than a scientific fair, because it allows students to investigate, design, and create real-world science, technology, engineering and math and brings together numerous district departments and campuses, as well as industry and academic partners.

“Our participants often get enthusiastic when they see new exhibitions or get in touch early to volunteer or participate,” Crystal Alexander, a Dallas ISD graduate and employee for nearly a quarter century, told the district’s news team in 2024. “The most positive comment is witnessing families come back year after year with more members.”

In a more recent example of the district’s expansive STEAM focus, the Dallas ISD Texas Math & Science Coaches Association had to hold two invitational meets in the fall to accommodate all those wanting to practice for UIL competition.

More than 1,300 students from 91 schools participated in the meet with students in grades three through 12 competing in number sense, calculator applications, math, and science.

“I’ve seen firsthand how the competition positively impacts my students,” said Kendall Russo, the TMSCA coach at Everette L. Degolyer Elementary School. “Through their participation, they’ve developed a love for learning, embraced challenges with enthusiasm, and built a strong sense of pride in themselves and representing their school.”

The Lamplighter School

With Innovative Projects, a new class introduced this year, teachers are cooking up STEAM learning for students in all grade levels.

First and second graders prepare various recipes while older students expand on that learning with design concepts, problem solving, and robots.

“These cooking projects allow students to improve their ability to follow multi-step directions while incorporating the math and measuring skills used in cooking,” said Stephen Scott, assistant head for lower school teaching and learning.

“Third graders conducted an ‘egg drop’ experiment that had themes of physics and design thinking,” he added. “Fourth graders have taken part in projects focused on robotics, which incorporates programming and problem solving.”

The Innovative Projects class is housed in the school’s state-of-the-art Eastin Family Innovation Lab and students utilize the building’s project room and Enrico Family Teaching Kitchen for cooking lessons, science experiments, and STEM challenges. Along with learning woodshop and robotics, the school’s teaching kitchen is a highlight among students.

Focusing on student discovery, the Innovation Lab’s open space learning environment is filled with light and is integrated into the landscape to support exploration alongside instruction. Featuring cypress wood planks and wrapped in copper, the interior and exterior allows an open concept for its learning spaces.

Trinity Christian Academy

At TCA, STEM learning often involves helping others, and students are flush with interesting ideas.

For example, Upper School students can

gain real-world experience and hone leadership skills by joining Tech Stop. In the program, the students assist teachers and peers with computer issues.

Also, an honors-level engineering class open to seniors comes with a final project focused on designing and developing new devices to help a local children with special needs. This project not only helps the children and their families by giving them useful tools and devices that don’t exist in the marketplace, but also teaches students that engineering skills can be used to improve the lives of those in the community, TCA officials said.

However, STEM learning doesn’t wait until high school. All lower school students in kindergarten through fourth grade attend a STEM lab, intentionally designed to provide opportunities for hands-on inquiry, exploration and discovery.

Wesley Prep

Fourth graders researching Texas ecoregions in their science and Texas history studies created posters and dioramas to model important plants, animals, and landforms in their areas of study.

Their research came to life when they focused on a specific animal native to their ecoregion and created a realistic habitat that would meet the live animal’s needs in the classroom.

Students recorded observations for the classroom animals over several weeks to study locomotion, behavioral adaptations, physical adaptations, body structure, and feeding habitats.

They also wrote ode, free verse, and haiku poems about the state park, plants, and animals in their ecoregions and performed them for their families and grandparents.

–Compiled by Claudia Carson-Habeeb and William Taylor

The giant model heart Compass second graders made with their teacher includes the aorta and arteries. GEORGE FIALA

Dallas ISD’s annual STEM Expo features dozens of exhibits and showcases opportunities the district offers, including STEM and STEAM-focused programs, career institutes, collegiate academies, and career and technical education pathways. COURTESY DALLAS ISD

Lamplighter first graders find out how tasty math can be as they explore geometry and other concepts by making pastry pinwheels. COURTESY LAMPLIGHTER

Seniors in an honors-level engineering class design and present a project at Trinity Christian Academy. COURTESY TCA

Wesley Prep students recorded observations of classroom animals over several weeks. COURTESY WESLEY PREP

LEFT TO RIGHT: Alexandra Billmyre, Austin Holmes, Amy Ford, Ryan Nordhaus*, Rob McAngus*+†, George Parker*, Jim Mueller*•+†, Charlie Hodges*•+†, Abby M. Foster*+, Shane Landers, Kim Meaders, Ravi Mohan, and Maddison Clark

Invention Sparked by Greenhill’s Design and Innovation Program

Isabel (Isa) Tanner, a junior at Greenhill School, set out to redefine hydration for elite athletes, imagining a future where these athletes no longer rely on generic sports drinks but instead have custom hydration tailored to their needs in real time.

“Her work has ignited a passion that drives her to independently explore advanced concepts, such as microfluid design and material delivery systems.” Matt Abbondanzio

Isa’s journey began in her Design Thinking to Open Entrepreneurship course within Greenhill’s Design + Innovation program last year. During the ethnographic research phase of the course, Isa made a discovery: Elite athletes need tailored electrolyte replenishment to

maintain peak performance. Inspired by this insight, Isa set out to design a groundbreaking hydration system for athletes. Her patent-pending invention includes a microfluidic patch

designed to capture an athlete’s sweat, analyze it using specific chemical indicators, and communicate results through an app. The data triggers a delivery system in a water bottle to release the exact blend of electrolytes customized to the athlete’s individual needs, ensuring top athletic performance.

In April, Isa’s innovation impressed a panel of executives at Greenhill’s inaugural What’s NEXT Pitch event where she

earned a $3,000 prize to push her project forward. The funding allowed her to develop a proof-ofconcept for her invention.

Leveraging her 3D modeling skills and access to a professional grade stereolithography (SLA) 3D printer in Greenhill’s Design + Innovation Lab, Isa produced an initial microfluidic patch with channels as small as 1mm. With early tests showing promise, the innovator is now focusing on developing a functional delivery mechanism to complete the system.

Sights set on having a working prototype by March 2025, Isa is determined to redefine hydration for elite athletes and open doors to next-level, personalized athletic performance.

“Isa exemplifies the principles we strive to instill in the Design + Innovation program at Greenhill: strategically identifying and solving the right problems while embracing uncertainty. Her work has ignited a passion that drives her to independently explore advanced concepts, such as microfluid design and material delivery systems. For both Isa and Greenhill, this is just the beginning,” shared Matt Abbondanzio, Greenhill’s director of design + innovation.

–Compiled by Claudia

Carson-Habeeb

Isabel Tanner presents during pitch night, showcases her innovation to alumni and faculty, and receives $3,000 prize check. COURTESY GREENHILL SCHOOL

SMU Team Puts STEM-Skills to Work, Collaborates to Speed Drug Discovery

By Sarah Hodges sarah.hodges@peoplenewspapers.com

Developing a new drug is a massive undertaking that can take 15 years and cost more than $2.5 billion dollars.

But a team of researchers from SMU has found a way to shorten parts of the process. They’ve developed a tool called SmartCADD, short for Computer Assisted Drug Design platform, to narrow down the chemical compounds that might be used to develop new drugs.

SmartCADD can identify drug design candidates from a billion possible compounds in days with good computational resources, said professor Elfi Kraka, who heads SMU’s Computational and Theoretical Chemistry Group.

The tool uses artificial intelligence to screen chemical compounds and identify the most promising. But, unlike typical AI, it’s not a black box.

“One important new feature in what we use is so called explainable AI,” Kraka said. “So, you also get an explanation of why the AI system did what it did.”

SmartCADD uses those explanations to whittle down the number of potential candidates even further by combining filters with quantum chemical evaluations and models that help align a chemical compound’s features to where they might fit on a protein.

“You can think of it like when people are panning for gold and putting the dirt through finer and finer grain things, until they get to the end, and they get the dust,” explained Corey Clark, assistant

professor of computer science in the Lyle School of Engineering and deputy director of Research at SMU Guildhall.

SmartCADD’s result pinpoints the best drug candidates to bind to target proteins. A better fit means a more effective drug. SmartCADD cuts out potential drugs that won’t travel effectively through the body, or that will be toxic to patients.

The researchers recently tested SmartCADD on HIV. The tool created and searched through a database of 800 million chemical compounds and found that 10 million might work as HIV drugs. Then, it used its filters to both identify already approved drugs, and to suggest some new candidates that might work even better.

Now, the SMU team is working to apply the tool to an aggressive and

fast-growing type of lung cancer. The drugs on the market have too many severe side effects, Kraka explained.

The team has also created a library with highly accurate chemical information for almost 165,000 molecules, which covers nearly 90% of druggable space.

Kraka said she hopes that researchers who don’t have access to computational resources will use the team’s library and SmartCADD to assist with their own projects. The next version of SmartCADD will include the library and corresponding AI that will help speed up the tool’s filtering system without the need for expensive calculations.

“The end goal is that these filters end up becoming useful,” Clark said, “and can dramatically reduce the time to find treatments and cures for disease.”

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LEFT TO RIGHT: Elfi Kraka and Corey Clark. COURTESY SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY, KIM LEESON AND JEFFREY MCWHORTER