Preston Hollow People January 2022

STEAM: PREPARING CHILDREN FOR IN-DEMAND CAREERS – SECTION B

JANUARY 2022 VOLUME 18 NO. 1

“THE BEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER IN TEXAS”

PRESTONHOLLOWPEOPLE.COM

I

PERSONS OF THE YEAR Readers vote for Izzy Martin, a brave Episcopal School student with a big heart. PAGE 15 The newspaper honors Cindy Brinker Simmons, who fights cancer with philanthropy.

PAGE 14

PHOTO: TI ADORO STUDIOS

COMMUNITY

SCHOOL

LIVING

Contents

Catholic artist’s painting becomes downtown mural

Letter prompts uncomfortable gun talk

Exhibit: Women who shaped Neiman Marcus

News ......................................... 4

Business .................................. 23

Weddings............................ 36-37

Crime ......................................... 8

Real Estate .............................. 24

Classifieds ............................... 39

Community .............................. 10

Schools .................................... 26

STEAM ......................... Section B

Person of the Year ................... 14

Society .................................... 32

Sports ...................................... 16

Living........................................ 34

10

30

39

2 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com PENDING

2555 N. Pearl Street #301 · Represented Buyer Becky Nelson · 214.507.0680 · beckynelson@daveperrymiller.com

Fifth and sixth graders from First United Methodist Church-Dallas led the congregation in the first Christmas service of the holiday season in November. (PHOTO: BETHANY ERICKSON)

YOU GOTTA HAVE FAITH (FRIDAYS)

V

PENDING

4410 MCFARLIN BLVD.

4 Bed · 3.1 Bath | 3,640 Sq Ft/Appr Listed $2,760,000 2009 Big Springs Dr.,for Joshua, TX · Represented Buyer Paige & Curt Elliott · 214.478.9544 · elliott@daveperrymiller.com

Discover a Better Winter

acation Bible School. Pride celebrations. New pianos. Carnivals. Worship during a pandemic. Holiday celebrations.

Those are just a few of the things we’ve enjoyed celebrating with our neighbors as part of our weekly Faith Friday series at peoplenewspapers.com.

We started the effort in June, as we started seeing so many adorable photos of VBS weeks from churches in our area. We hope we’ve provided a glimpse of what goes on in the many places of worship around the Park Cities and Preston Hollow.

At its heart, Preston Hollow People is about community — and our faith institutions are a big part of it. We love providing these snapshots of time and peeks behind the sanctuary doors that that reveal significant stories of Preston Hollow neighbors.

So, if your place of worship is doing something that you’re proud of, please let us know. We’d love to share your important event and wonderful photos with the rest of our neighbors.

And, as always, we love to get your tips and photos. Want to tell us about your organization or community effort? Let us know about it by emailing online@peoplenewspapers.com, or by messaging us on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook.

Also online: We’ll have more in our February issue, but the primary season is in full swing, and

Whether you enjoy watching the snow fall from inside where it’s comfy and warm or you prefer being out and about, at The Forum at Park Lane, you can experience winter at its best. We offer 24-hour nursing care, wellness programs, and Lifestyle360 activities to keep everyone happy and healthy.

Ask about our Independent and Assisted Living Specials!

Call us today to learn more THE FORUM AT PARK LANE 7831 Park Lane • Dallas, TX 75225 214-369-9902 • www.TheForumAtParkLane.com INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING REHABILITATION • RESPITE STAYS AL #000772 ©2021 Five Star Senior Living

there are some interesting local races, including a potential faceoff between incumbent Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins and (as of press time) the only Republican candidate for the seat, Dallas ISD school board trustee Edwin Flores. Find the latest information about the primary ballots for Preston Hollow and the Park Cities in our news section.

The late Edwin L. Cox Sr.’s acclaimed Highland Park estate recently sold to billionaire Andy Beal, and many readers were interested in the details.

Most-asked question: What would happen to the Christmas lights at the corner of the property?

Stay tuned.

Last year, we asked our readers to weigh in with their favorite stories of the year, and we’ve continued that this year. We had 10 great nominations, and now you can vote on which of them is your favorite from 2021 — the details are in our community section.

Students from Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing Arts took part in a celebration of the Netflix debut of late Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Jonathan Larson’s tick, tick…BOOM! that showcased emerging teen performers and filmmakers. See the video in our schools section.

PHOTOS WELCOME Send your Faith Friday suggestions to online@peoplenewspapers.com.

EDITORIAL

A DV E R T I S I N G

O P E R AT I O N S

Editor William Taylor

Senior Account Executive Kim Hurmis

Distribution Manager Mike Reinboldt

Account Executives Tana Hunter Quita Johnson Evelyn Wolff

Distribution Consultant Don Hancock

Digital Editor Bethany Erickson Deputy Editor Rachel Snyder Sports Editor Todd Jorgenson Art & Production Director Melanie Thornton

Client Relations & Marketing Coordinator Maddie Spera

Interns Amber L. Billops Payton Blalock Emilea McCutchan Omolayo Olaleye Sophia Wilson

Digital & Production Assistant Mia Carrera Preston Hollow People is printed on recycled paper. Help us show love for the earth by recycling this newspaper and any magazines from the D family to which you subscribe.

Publisher: Patricia Martin

Preston Hollow People is published monthly by CITY NEWSPAPERS LP, an affiliate of D Magazine Partners LP, 750 N. Saint Paul St., Suite 2100, Dallas, TX 75201. Copyright 2021. All rights reserved. No reproduction without permission. Submissions to the editor may be sent via e-mail to editor@ peoplenewspapers.com. Correspondence must include writer’s name and contact number. Main phone number, 214-739-2244

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 3

The Luxury Market Leader Across All of North Texas The Ebby Halliday Companies are proud to be the luxury market leader in not just a single area, but in all of North Texas.

A sound luxury marketing plan requires knowing your buyers,

Start your move at

and we know them better than any other broker in North Texas.

ebby.com

How may we assist you?

9727audubon.ebby.com

3810windward.ebby.com

2709amherst.ebby.com

9727 AUDUBON PLACE | $18,900,000

CEDAR CREEK LAKE, LONG COVE | $3,850,000

2709 AMHERST AVENUE | $2,195,000

7 Bedrooms | 10.5 Baths | 18,769 sq. ft.

5 Bedrooms | 5.1 Baths | 4,993 sq. ft.

4 Bedrooms | 5 Baths | 4,991 sq. ft.

Karen Keegan

Amy Farris

Victoria Barr

214-808-3400 karenkeegan@ebby.com

469-236-1533 amyfarris@ebby.com

214-213-2593 victoriabarr@ebby.com

401kingranch.ebby.com

8706groveland.ebby.com

4646bobbitt.ebby.com

401 KING RANCH ROAD | $1,875,000

8706 GROVELAND DRIVE | SOLD

4646 BOBBITT DRIVE | $995,000

5 Bedrooms | 5.2 Baths | 6,356 sq. ft.

4 Bedrooms | 3.1 Baths | 3,077 sq. ft.

3 Bedrooms | 3.1 Baths | 3,741 sq. ft.

Sherri Courie

Paula Streiff

Erin Banna

469-867-6337 sherricourie@ebby.com

469-231-7170 paulastreiff@ebby.com

214-563-0429 erinbanna@ebby.com

EBBY’S LITTLE WHITE HOUSE | 214-210-1500

EBBY PRESTON CENTER | 214-692-0000

EBBY LAKEWOOD / LAKE HIGHLANDS | 214-826-0316

4 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

News

TEACHERS TARGETED

Save Texas Kids singles out Dallas ISD instructor for AP lesson

By Bethany Erickson

bethany.erickson@peoplenewspapers.com

E

ducators and education advocates warned this summer: House Bill 3979, which many believe outlaws teaching Critical Race Theory, would create confusion.

And not long after, incidents bubbled up in several school districts, including Dallas ISD, where an email from Save Texas Kids urged teachers to report instances where they felt encouraged to teach CRT. “Unfortunately, I know that many school districts will disregard this law which is why we need your help,” the letter’s author, Natalie Cato, wrote.

The bill was aimed at social studies classes and says that a “teacher may not be compelled to discuss a widely debated and currently controversial issue of public policy or social affairs.” It doesn’t ban teaching controversial topics, per se— it says that teachers must “explore that topic objectively and in a manner free from political bias.”

With that backdrop, one AP language teacher at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts opted to use Cato’s email to help her students learn how to parse passages for their lessons on logical fallacies, cognitive biases, and rhetorical analysis.

HB 3979 pertains to social studies courses only, not English/language arts.

When Cato caught word of the teacher’s lesson, she fired off another missive to teachers, identifying the teacher as Melody Townsel

After Save Texas Kids sent an email to Dallas ISD teachers encouraging them to report instances where they’re forced to teach Critical Race Theory, one Booker T. Washington teacher used the letter in her English/language arts class. (PHOTO: COURTESY SCREENSHOTS) and urging Dallas ISD to terminate her for “illegally teaching CRT.” One of her students said Cato’s characterization couldn’t be further from the truth.

“We’ve been working on argumentative essays, so when this letter came out, it happened

to go perfectly with what we were learning,” the student, who asked to remain anonymous, said.

“We reviewed the STK letter and first highlighted all of the rhetorical precis used throughout the essay. This helped us better understand rhetorical precis and how they can have a large

impact on persuading people.

“After highlighting, we viewed the rubric we used to grade our own argumentative essay and graded the STK kids based on writing skills only. In fact, I learned a lot from this lesson.”

One teacher’s union says Cato and Save Texas Kids were wrong to single Townsel out and wrong to send the initial email, too.

“They’re putting a target on our teachers,” said Alliance AFT president Rena Honea.

State Rep. Rafael Anchia agrees.

“Gov. Abbott and Texas Republicans have put a target on teachers’ backs,” he said. “They were warned by experts, educators, historians, and parents of the ramifications that would stem as a result of passing classroom censorship policies.”

“I am worried about individuals and organizations attempting to use the bill to target teachers and educators and attempt to bully them through fear and intimidation, even if what they’re being targeted for isn’t addressed in HB 3979,” said Dallas ISD school board president Ben Mackey. “That said, I am proud of the work that Dallas ISD has done over the past years and will fully support Dallas ISD’s continued efforts to becoming a more equitable and effective school district for all of our students.”

HOMEWORK See more about HB3979 and its implementation - as well as more about this lesson — at peoplenewspapers.com.

SMU Moves a Little Earth, Begins Graduate School Construction SMU’s eighth degree-granting school, which began operations in 2020, doesn’t have its fancy new home yet, but December dirt piles signal one is coming.

The school’s dean, James Quick, along with SMU Provost Elizabeth Loboa, President R. Gerald Turner, trustee Frances Anne “Francie” Moody-Dahlberg, board chair Robert Dedman Jr., and Vice President for Academic Affairs Brad Cheves did the dirty work with the ceremonial shovels at the groundbreaking.

The new Frances Anne Moody Hall, expected to open in the summer of 2023, is named for Frances Anne Moody-Dalberg.

The class of 1992 graduate serves as executive director of the Moody Foundation, which contributed the $100 million gift – the largest in SMU history – to create the Moody School of Graduate and Advanced Studies.

“We’re announcing the next stage in SMU’s development — a significant and unprecedented investment in the university’s graduate and doctoral programs and faculty research programs, which will propel SMU to even greater heights of national prominence,” Turner said at the time of the Moody Foundation gift.

The Moody School brings doctoral and master’s degrees in four schools under one institu-

SOLD!

5816 WALNUT HILL LANE | PRESTON HOLLOW

tional umbrella and already supports more than 75 Ph.D. students across these schools with competitive fellowships.

The investment in the Moody School and Frances Anne Moody Hall supports the SMU’s research mission by attracting outstanding graduate students who are the workforce behind the University’s doctoral and research ecosystem university officials announced.

The expansion of research is a strategic priority that fuels the steady ascent toward achieving the Carnegie R1 status awarded to only the nation’s highest-level research institutions.

– Staff report

FROM LEFT: James Quick, Elizabeth Loboa, R. Gerald Turner, “Francie” Moody-Dahlberg, and Robert Dedman Jr. (PHOTO: COURTESY SMU)

LISTING & SELLING

Preston Hollow

SOLD!

9918 AVALON CREEK COURT | PRESTON HOLLOW

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 5

2300wolfph20ab.daveperrymiller.com

535countyroad3992.daveperrymiller.com Listed by

Stoneleigh Residences PH 20AB 3 BEDROOMS | 3.3 BATHS | 3 LIVING | 7 CAR | 7,517 SQ. FT. Offered for $6,950,000

Sharon Quist 214.695.9595 sharonquist@dpmre.com

2836university.daveperrymiller.com

2836 University Boulevard 5 BEDROOMS | 4.2 BATHS | 4,935 SQ. FT. Offered for $2,300,000

5 BEDROOMS | 4.1 BATHS |4,847 SQ. FT. Offered for $1,049,999

3 BEDROOMS | 2 BATHS | 3,449 SQ. FT. | 215 AC Offered for $3,780,000

Listed by

DeCarla Anderson 214.695.9043 decarla@dpmre.com

John Barrett 972.375.5787 johnbarrett@dpmre.com

3507mcfarlin.daveperrymiller.com Listed by

Skylar Champion 214.695.8701 skylar@dpmre.com

900cypress.daveperrymiller.com

900 Cypress Court

Harmony Springs Ranch, 535 CR 3992

3507 McFarlin Boulevard 5 BEDROOMS | 5.1 BATHS | 6,499 SQ. FT. Offered for $2,159,000

Listed by

Shelly Hammer 214.207.7937 hammer@dpmre.com

UNDER CONTRACT Listed by

Kim Gromatzky 214.802.5002 gromatzkygroup@dpmre.com

4506 College Park Drive 4 BEDROOMS | 3.1 BATHS | 3,609 SQ. FT. Offered for $825,000

Listed by

Lori Kircher 214.789.4060 lori@dpmre.com

Price and availability subject to change. Information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

An Ebby Halliday Company

6 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

Maria Reis Habito and other religious leaders meet with Pope Francis to discuss the state of our shared earth. Maria Reis Habito with Hsin Tao, founder of the Museum of World Religions. (PHOTOS: COURTESY MUSEUM OF WORLD RELIGIONS)

Dallas Woman Meets with Pope Scholar, Pontiff seek global harmony through climate action Daniel Lalley

Special Contributor Dr. Maria Reis Habito has long worked to help bring about a global consensus of peace, unity, and understanding among some of the most diverse populations on the planet.

The philosophy and religious scholar’s most recent interfaith efforts – addressing climate change – prompted a fall 2021 meeting with Pope Francis.

Born Catholic in Cologne, Germany, and raised in Saarbrücken, Habito has lived an international and ever-evolving life, working and studying throughout some of the most incredible places in Europe, Asia, and right here in the Park Cities.

Habito has been a Dallas resident since moving to be with her husband Ruben Habito, who was offered a professorship at SMU in 1989.

“I never imagined with all my Asian studies, I’d end up in Texas,” she said.

“The SMU and Perkins School of Theology community has provided a place of belonging to us.”

We want to train young people to look at ecology from a spiritual point of view but also from a scientific standpoint as well.

Maria Reis Habito As the international program director for the Museum of World Religions in Taipei, Taiwan, her work spans the globe bringing about a neo-Buddhist concept of encouraging interfaith dialogue to establish understanding and peace.

“The museum really wants people to develop respect, understanding, and love for other religions, and that’s what we’ve been working on for the last 20 years,” Habito said.

The MWR was founded by Buddhist monk and Habito’s long-time associate, Master Hsin Tao. Over the years, its mission, rooted in a desire to create a healthier global home for all, has continued to evolve.

“Now, with the environmental crisis, we’re focusing more on respect and love for the earth,” Habito said. “We want to train young people to look at ecology from a spiritual point of view but also from a scientific standpoint as well.”

In her capacity with the MWR, Habito is charged with finding scholars and spiritual leaders from across the globe to facilitate international forums focused on faith, science, and the state of our earth.

The museum’s interests have matched those of Pope Francis, who is appealing for global harmony through immediate climate action.

During the COP26 summit in November, in which the MWR and a vast network of religious leaders participated, Francis warned. “Time is running out.

This occasion must not be wasted.”

W H AT I S I T ?

Founded November 2001 in Taipei Taiwan, the Museum of World Religions is celebrating its 20th anniversary fostering global religious diplomacy under Venerable Hsin Tao, Buddhist monk and founder. This museum presents multiple exhibits on major world religions while also working to bring about unity in all belief systems.

Visit mwr.org.tw/mwr_en.

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 7

8 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

Crime Reports Nov. 8 – Dec. 5 Nov. 8 Before 12:22 p.m., a Grand Theft Auto wannabe tried to take a woman’s vehicle from NorthPark Center but settled for contents from the passenger compartment.

Nov. 10 Lost and found: At 8:31 a.m., officers recovered a stolen vehicle involved in a minor wreck in the 9500 block of Boedeker Street and discovered narcotics inside it.

Nov. 11 Is Lane Park Drive a street or a crime description? Perhaps, both. The LANE where a man chose to PARK in the 7200 block emptied prematurely before 11:18 a.m. Nov. 11 after a crook decided to DRIVE off with the vehicle.

Nov. 13 Officers responded at 2:30 a.m. to a “burglary in progress” call at apartments in the 7700 block of West Greenway Boulevard, where they made what they described as an “exceptional arrest” of someone for being drunk in public. How exceptional was the arrest? Crosschecking the offense record with arrest records provided all the key details about the person apprehended EXCEPT his/her name, age, gender, and anything else at all. (“Exceptional arrest” doesn’t mean arrest.)

Nov. 15 Before 5:58 p.m., a thief entered a woman’s vehicle at home in the 5200 block of Shadywood Lane without damaging doors and windows. Hopefully, the vehicle’s other parts were still OK, too.

Nov. 16 Abandoned ship! Uhm, make that a boat on a trailer left blocking part of the 5000 block of LBJ Freeway before 8:12 a.m.

Nov. 17 Reported at 12:08 p.m.: A stranger on Nov. 15 pulled on the door handle of a man’s vehicle at a home in the 11700 block of Pine Forest Drive.

Nov. 18 Officers were dispatched at 6:41 p.m. to investigate a Nov. 16 incident at NorthPark Center where a robber pointed a gun at a woman and demanded money.

Nov. 19 Broken before 7:39 p.m.: a window during the burglary of man’s vehicle at Lovers Lane United Methodist Church in the 9200 block of Inwood Road.

Nov. 21 An elusive naughty motorist evaded an officer trying to make a traffic stop at 12:59 a.m. in the

8500 block of Thackery Street.

Nov. 23 Reported at 10:24 a.m. Nov. 23: a sad state of affairs for NorthPark Center visitors. Officers described this as a “routine investigation:” an unknown person broke out the window of a man’s vehicle.

Nov. 24 Reported at 4:44 p.m.: a smash and grab. A burglar took the contents from a man’s vehicle at NorthPark Center and left behind a broken window.

Nov. 25 Reported at 4:31 p.m.: an unhappy Thanksgiving. A thief took a man’s vehicle from a home in the 4700 block of Stanford Avenue.

woman’s vehicle at the Primrose School of Park Cities on Inwood Road, near Mockingbird Lane.

Dec. 1 Officers were dispatched at 10:01 a.m. to a “major accident” in the 5000 block of Royal Lane, where one woman had been kicked in the face, suffering pain and redness, and another had been punched and bitten.

Dec. 2 Overnight before 7:41 a.m., a prowler cut a lock to enter a fenced area and steal stuff from a vacant home in the 6200 block of Woodland Drive.

What will an opportunistic prowler film after pinching a plumbing camera outside a home in the 6200 block of Tulip Lane before 2:22 p.m.

Nov. 19?

Nov. 29

For more crimes visit: peoplenewspapers.com/ category/crime/

Burglarized before 8:01 p.m.: a

Dec. 5 Reported at 9:46 p.m.: the theft of a license plate at NorthPark Center.

SKULDUGGERY of the MONTH: DIRTY VIDEOS?

Nov. 27 A reckless jerk of a motorist fled before 12:46 a.m. without leaving information f rom the scene of a wreck in the 6700 block of Lomo Alto Drive.

Nov. 28 Bitter suite stay? Stolen overnight before 8:37 a.m. at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Dallas Love Field on Northwest Highway: a man’s vehicle.

Dec. 3 The highly redacted offense records available on the Dallas Police Public Data portal still offer some “interesting” descriptions. For example, this incident, reported at 10 a.m., was described as both “embezzlement” and a “routine investigation:” A thief the day before took the taillights off a man’s vehicle at a home in the 6600 block of Pemberton Drive.

(PHOTO: PEXELS.COM, ILLUSTRATION: MELANIE THORNTON)

AT T H E L E G A C Y M I D T OWN PA R K

We offer resort-style living with the ease and freedom of renting.

Our thoughtfully designed community boasts the best of everything. Premier service, the finest accommodations, and a prime location define The Legacy Midtown Park. A community like no other, daily life on our stunning, new 10-acre campus includes gourmet dining, a vibrant social scene, and amenities and activities that engage and inspire.

A FULL CONTINUUM OF CARE ON ONE CAMPUS:

Independent Living Assisted Living Memory Support Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation

Your next chapter, designed by you.

824 O MANDERVILLE LANE | DALLAS , TX 75231 | THELEGACYMP.ORG

Let us help you decide which community and lifestyle best suits you or your loved one.

For more information, scan this QR code or call us at 214.305.6837 to schedule a tour.

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 9

OVER $300 MILLION IN PROPERTIES SOLD IN 2021

#1 REAL ESTATE TEAM IN NORTH TEXAS, #1 REAL ESTATE TEAM IN PRESTON HOLLOW

COCHRAN CHAPEL

RYAN STREIFF :: 469.371.3008 | JASON BATES :: 214.673.4268 CHARLES GREGORY :: 214.929.4434, REPRESENTED THE BUYER

7711 GLEN ALBENS - LISTED FOR $3,199,000

RYAN STREIFF :: 469.371.3008 | CHARLES GREGORY :: 214.929.4434

SOLD UNDER CONTRACT

11333 W. RICKS CIRCLE - LISTED FOR $9,995,000

RYAN STREIFF :: 469.371.3008 | LAURA MICHELLE :: 214.228.3854

SOLD

SOLD

UNDER CONTRACT

DAVE PERRY-MILLER REAL ESTATE’S #1 PRODUCING GROUP

4711 N. LINDHURST - LISTED FOR $7,395,000

RYAN STREIFF :: 469.371.3008 | COURTNEY JUBINSKY :: 214.684.2575

4834 N. LINDHURST - LISTED FOR $5,995,000 RYAN STREIFF :: 469.371.3008 | KAREN FRY :: 214.288.1391

4307 GLOSTER - LISTED FOR $2,995,000 JAMIE KOHLMANN :: 214.669.6520

DPMFineHomes.com • 214.799.1488

10 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

Community

CHECK IT OUT Part of the “Public Art Walk Dallas,” find the Catholic Foundation Plaza, a 3,900-square-foot public space at the Cathedral Shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe, 2215 Ross Ave., at the corner of Flora and Crockett Streets, directly across from the Meyerson Symphony Hall.

Source: catholicfoundation.com BOTTOM: FROM LEFT: Matt Kramer, Heajung Jina Lee, Cheryl Unis Mansour, and David Yost as the Catholic Foundation unveiled a muralsized version of Lee’s competition-winning painting, Be Happy [also at top]. RIGHT: Lee’s painting Artists’ Journey. (PHOTO: COURTESY CATHOLIC FOUNDATION; PAINTINGS: JINA LEE)

‘BE HAPPY’ AND HUGE

See mural-sized reproduction of Jina Lee’s winning painting

By Samantha Ponce Special Contributor

S

elf-taught Preston Hollow artist Heajung Jina Lee painted a path of trees to represent the walk of life and the journeys everyone takes.

“I hope people will be happy by looking at my painting and also think that they can also follow their dreams no matter what age group they are in,” Lee said in the fall after her artwork went on display for one year in downtown Dallas.

Be Happy won the Catholic Foundation’s

16th annual Art on the Plaza competition, earning Lee a $2,500 stipend and a high-visibility exhibition opportunity.

Her painting, selected by panelists from the Dallas arts community, was digitally reproduced to mural-size dimensions and installed on the plaza’s 28-foot-long by 9-foot-wide public art wall at Catholic Foundation Plaza at the Cathedral Shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe.

To fit that space in the Dallas Arts District, submissions had to measure 28 inches by 9 and 2/3 inches but did not need a religious theme as long as they remained respectful.

“We look forward to the opportunity to showcase the talents and creativity of Texas artists in our annual Art on the Plaza competition,” said Matt Kramer, president and CEO of The Catholic Foundation. “This competition serves as a chance for artists to put their mark on downtown Dallas.”

With the location in mind, Lee wanted to create a beautiful landscape that contrasts with the downtown buildings and spiritually connects to people with pops of color and greenery.

Lee, a retired auditor, has painted throughout her lifetime. She learned color

theory with extensive practice.

“My goal is going to become a professional artist,” Lee said, adding she also wants “to make myself a little bit different than all the artists out there because you want to find your own voice and your own style.”

To that end, she enrolled full-time at Dallas College’s North Lake Campus, where she is using the “best time of my life” to learn and explore art styles and mediums.

“Now, this is my time,” Lee said. “I’m going to do what I want to do. I’m going to really study art.”

Holiday Coloring Book Contest Winners

AGE CATEGORY 2-4 WINNER: Liam Hardin (4 years old)

AGE CATEGORY 5-7 WINNER: Elle Samaha (7 years old)

AGE CATEGORY 8-10 WINNER: Hunter Kay (9 years old)

AGE CATEGORY 11-13 WINNER: Eva Altschuler (13 years old)

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 11

Resolution Revelations Creating my list of New Year’s resolutions nags at me like a petulant child, and with four kids, I am familiar with the feeling.

Traditionally, by the end of each year, I put together a list of all the mountains I intend to climb over the next 365 moons. This year was no different.

Top of the list is the exMICHELE VALDEZ act failed resolution that has been at the top of the list for over two decades.

In 2022, I will finally lose what I refer to as “age weight.” You know, the extra pounds, compliments of Father Time, that can’t be hidden under a smart Cynthia Rowley A-line frock. They are the un-Spanxable ripples that distract from whatever fabulous shoes I am wearing.

Achieving my more svelte self gets me to the second of my timeless resolutions. I will exercise more.

Actually, I exercise plenty, but I promise to take it more seriously. These days, I hop on the exercise bike in our home gym, watch Netflix, and pedal slowly. Imagine the rhythm of a Michael Buble ballad.

If I get thirsty, I have two-cup holders; one holds a water bottle and the other a stemless glass of chardonnay. In 2022, I promise to pedal faster.

Next on my list of porous promises is my do-gooder goal. I plan to be a better wife and mother.

My only question is whether my resolution counts if it is conditional. Aren’t family duties twoway? Sure, I promise to be nicer, kinder, and all that stuff, but only if my family reciprocates, helps more during the holidays, acknowledges my extraordinary talents and lovable nature.

As for the remainder of my resolutions, I have added a few new personal pledges.

By the first snow of 2022, I will be more forthcoming, meaning no Pinocchio nose for me.

I will no longer cut in half the amount I spend on the kids when asked by my inquisitive spouse.

I will try to be more romantic and plan getaways to do what my faithful wants to do – which means I need to buy a fly rod and waders.

And most importantly, I will no longer make resolutions that have had a shelf life of more than 20 years.

Michele Valdez, a slightly compulsive, mildly angry feminist, has been an attorney and community volunteer. She has four demanding adult children, an enthusiastic black lab, and a patient husband.

SELLING PREMIER URBAN NEIGHBORHOODS Meet the experts in Park Cities & Preston Hollow.

FOR LE ASE

3 Winding Lake Drive 3 Bed | 3.1 Bath | 4,964 SqFt Offered for $18,000/mo LISTED BY ANI NOSNIK

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

2555 N Pearl #1802 1 Bed | 1.1 Bath | 2,154 SqFt. Offered for $2,950,000 LISTED BY SANDERS AVREA & KYLE CREWS

FOR SALE

2300 Wolf #16BC 4 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 5,427 SqFt. Offered for $5,100,000

5335 Meaders Lane 6 Bed | 6.2 Bath | 12,612 SqFt Offered for $9,750,000

LISTED BY ANI NOSNIK & SANDERS AVREA

LISTED BY KYLE CREWS & TERRI COX

Not intended as solicitation of properties currently listed with another broker. Information contained herein is believed to be correct but not guaranteed. Offering made subject to errors, omissions, change of price, prior sale or withdrawal without notice.

12 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com WELCOME TO INDEPENDENT LIVING AT

FROM LEFT: Howard Vincent, Eduardo Carrera Gonzalez, Steven Leath, Karen Waldrop, Collin O’Mara, Trammell S. Crow, Mark Rey, Juana Garcia Palomares, Mario Alberto Canales Najjar, Trinidad Benavides Garcia, Humberto Enoc Cavazos Arozqueta, and Edgar Wenzel-Lopez.

(PHOTO: COURTESY EARTHX)

U.S., Mexican Conservationists Underscore Value of Hunting

WHY WAIT?

Hunters and conservation may sound like an odd coupling, but Teddy Roosevelt knew they made an ideal match, according to fws.gov.

“In a civilized and cultivated country, wild animals only continue to exist at all when preserved by sportsmen,” the 26th president of the United States once said. “The excellent people who protest against all hunting, and consider sportsmen as enemies of wildlife, are ignorant of the fact that in reality, the genuine sportsman is by all odds the most important factor in keeping the larger and more valuable wild creatures from total extermination.”

Dallas environmentalist Trammell S. Crow sees the connection, too. In the fall, the founder of the international nonprofit EarthX hosted leading authorities in wildlife conservation from Mexico and the United States.

“This forum was a shining example of how organizations, individuals, and countries can come together for the good of the planet,” Crow said.

Speakers included National Wildlife Federation president and CEO Collin O’Mara, former secretary of the interior David Bernhardt, and Rick Perry, the former Texas governor and U.S. secretary of energy.

The event culminated in signing a proclamation, recognizing the pivotal importance of trans-border cooperation. It also reinforced the historical role hunters and hunting have played in wildlife conservation across North America, underscored the need for certified hunter education courses, and emphasized the contemporary role hunters play as the principal financiers of conservation.

“I am deeply honored to sign a proclamation with a formal commitment from Mexican and American conservationists to secure a better and brighter future for North American wildlife and its habitats,” said Humberto Enoc Cavazos Arozqueta, president of the Safari Club of Mexico.

– Staff report

RIDE THE BUS WITH LESS FUSS.

DART’S NEW BUS ROUTES COMING JANUARY 2022!

TRADE IN HOMEOWNER TO -DO’S FOR RELAXING TO -ENJOYS. Come enjoy a carefree lifestyle and wealth of time and freedom. Located across from White Rock Lake, our beautiful 20-acre campus offers three unique independent living residences to choose from. Be part of a connected community and explore new interests at our life enrichment center, The Point, where you will never find yourself bored.

Why wait? It is the perfect time to refresh your body, mind and spirit at CC Young.

SIMPLER. BETTER. FASTER. EASIER!

Contact us to find out which independent living option is right for you.

Visit ccyoung.org or call 214-509-7598 for more information.

THE NEW DART BUS NETWORK HAS: INCREASED FREQUENCY • LESS TRAVEL TIME IMPROVED SERVICE • BETTER ACCESS FIND YOUR ROUTE AT DARTzoom.org

JOB # 75648 FILE NAME: Park_Cities_&_Preston_Hollow_People_4.9x7_Dart Zoom_4C_ENG.indd

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 13

Former SMU Rower Details Struggles in Directorial Debut

By Todd Jorgenson

normal to me,” Hadaway said.

For the film, Hadaway condensed her experience at SMU into a single year in the life It began with a flyer in Lauren Hadaway’s of Alex (Isabelle Fuhrman), a hard-charging mailbox during her freshman year at SMU: freshman. Her decision turns into an all-en“Join novice rowing. No experience required.” compassing quest for perfection, even if it Hadaway’s subsequent love-hate relation- means jeopardizing her social life, academship with the sport triggered four years of ics, and physical and mental health. mental and physical anguish — much of it After college, she moved to Los Angeles self-inflicted — and culminated more than and built a successful career working in the a decade later in The Novice, her semiautobi- sound department of major films, including ographical feature Whiplash and The filmmaking debut.

Hateful Eight.

“I didn’t even Hadaway wrote the first draft of know what rowing was,” said Haher screenplay daway, a Red Oak in 2017 while in native who arLondon serving as rived on campus in a sound editor on Justice League.

2007 looking for The deeply pera new activity that sonal project atwould fulfill her Isabelle Fuhrman stars in Lauren Hadaway’s tracted the attenhyper-competitive The Novice, which is now playing in theaters and on digital platforms. (PHOTO: COURTESY IFC FILMS) drive. tion of producer “ It sounded Ryan Hawkins, an harder than an intramural, and I always like ex-SMU classmate. Cameras rolled near Toronto in late 2019, with Hadaway editing a challenge.”

She willingly endured a regimen that in- much of the film in her kitchen during the cluded waking up at 5 a.m. six days a week, COVID-19 pandemic. often practicing twice a day, double-majorHadaway’s film isn’t meant to denigrate ing in cinema and business, holding an in- rowing or her alma mater. ternship or part-time job every semester, “I loved rowing, and I tried to capture the and participating in on-campus clubs and beauty of it,” she said. “On the water, I saw honors programs. more sunrises in four years than most people “I was extremely overextended, but it felt see in a lifetime.”

People Newspapers

District 8 Trustee Carreon’s Column for January 2022 District 8 Bond Projects Progressing In this season of reflection and gratitude, I want to say thank you to voters who supported our back-to-back bond programs. Thanks to you, Dallas ISD Bond and Construction Services is providing much-needed repairs, renovations and additions to existing campuses. The goal is to ensure that every child has a safe, 21st-century learning environment.

With that in mind, I would like to share info about the active Bond 2015 projects in District 8.

Eladio R. Martinez Learning Center is receiving $8.5 million in additions and renovations to its West Dallas campus. The proposed scope of work includes a secured front entry vestibule, a new reception and waiting area, a staff break room, HVAC replacement & upgrades, plumbing and electrical upgrades, security upgrades, parking lot replacement, new marquee sign, new basketball court and more.

Mount Auburn STEAM Academy is receiving $7.3 million in renovations to its campus to create a safe, nurturing learning environment.

Exterior renovations include landscaping and signage, repairs to the building facade, replacement of select doors and windows, improved draining, plumbing, and more. Interior renovations include flooring, ceiling and lighting replacements, a new front office, gym restoration, HVAC replacement, and more.

Innovation Design Entrepreneurship Academy at James Fannin is receiving interior renovations including beautiful murals, many of which can be seen on their social media channels.

There are no active Bond 2020 projects for District 8; however every District 8 campus is slated to have a renovation, repair, addition, or new furniture. I look forward to sharing more information on this in the future. To learn more, visit dallasisd.org/bond2015 or dallasisd. org/bond2020.

District 8 News Twenty Dallas ISD neighborhood schools each received $50,000 in seed money to pursue innovative ideas that will increase school choice in families’ backyards. This year’s selected schools are looking to redesign the traditional school model, with a focus on joy and the overall well-being of the learners in schools.

Kudos to District 8’s Innovation Engine Grant recipients: Gabe P. Allen Elementary School, for Project-Based Learning Exploration Obadiah Knight Elementary School, for Leadership José “Joe” May Elementary School, for STEM Mount Auburn Elementary School, for STEAM Julian T. Saldivar Elementary School, for Outdoor Science Learning Spaces STEM Expo Join us Saturday, January 22, 2022 for the largest STEM Expo in Texas!

The annual event will be a digital experience to bring our community together to explore, design, build and create a brighter future. For more information, you can visit www.dallasisd. org/stemexpo.

14 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

Person of the Year

2021 Newsmakers: Cindy Brinker Simmons’ philanthropy is in her DNA Neighbors Who Made Headlines

‘I JUST COUNT IT ALL A JOY’ SUPPORT HER CAUSES

Michael Hinojosa Michael Hinojosa, Dallas ISD superintendent (and alumnus), was already navigating the aftermath of a tornado that destroyed Michael Hinojosa three schools and damaged (COURTESY DALLAS ISD) several others when another disaster struck — COVID-19.

The superintendent oversaw the district’s plan to go virtual suddenly as the pandemic hit the state. He then navigated efforts to make the return to school as safe as possible for staff and students — getting national attention as he defied Gov. Greg Abbott to mandate masks for the district.

Volunteer to help or donate to various Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer programs at wokc.org.

Keep track of the programs and tournaments that honor Maureen Connelly-Brinker at mcbtennis.org.

By Bethany Erickson

bethany.erickson@peoplenewspapers.com

C

indy Brinker Simmons’ passion for philanthropy is pretty much genetic.

But her desire to contribute to finding a cure for cancer came while she sat on a church pew, mourning the loss of her mother.

“Everything my parents did was with the thought of blessing others,” Simmons said of her parents, restaurateur Norman Brinker and former tennis star Maureen “Little Mo” Connelly-Brinker. “Giving back is just really part of my DNA because of my remarkable parents, who really focused on the importance of investing in others’ lives and making a difference — being other focused and not self-focused.”

Simmons work to combat childhood cancer and help families dealing with the rigors of pediatric cancer treatment through Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer is why Preston Hollow People chose her as our 2021 Person of the Year.

It’s also why Simmons was awarded with the Governor’s Lifetime Volunteer Achievement Award this year.

My dad said to me, ‘You know . . . the greatest joy of having a few nickels to rub together is that you can give them away.

Cindy Brinker Simmons Her parents embraced a culture of giving, she said, but it wasn’t until her mother died of cancer that Simmons had a mission — despite being the tender age of 12.

Simmons’ mother, Maureen, was a world champion tennis player before a horse-riding accident cut her career short. But to get there, she had the help of generous people that helped fund her competition travel — something that spurred her to want to give back later, creating a nonprofit with friend Nancy Jeffett to promote and assist other promising young tennis players.

“She was actually No. 1 in the world in 1952, ‘53, and ‘54,” Simmons said. “And she won Wimbledon three years in a row.”

Maureen died of cancer at 34, six months

Clay Jenkins Love him or hate him, Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins has been on the forefront of the county’s response to the pandemic — and often at odds with Clay Jenkins the state’s GOP leaders.

(FILE PHOTO) Jenkins found himself butting heads with Abbott on numerous occasions, from local control of the pandemic response versus statewide quarterbacking from Abbott’s office, to mandating masks and vaccines. Some loved him for it, while others picketed in front of his home.

after starting the Maureen ConnellyBrinker Tennis Foundation.

“I was 12, and my sister Brenda was 10,” Simmons said. “And I remember sitting in a very uncomfortable pew at my mom’s funeral, between my dad and my sister, so angry — so heartbroken, just so confused … it was such a loss for our family.

“I sat on that pew as a preteenager, and I just thought that someday I’m going to do something to halt that scourge of a disease that claimed my mom’s life at age 34 — and I think that seed was planted in my head because I saw my parents helping so many people.”

These days, Simmons and her sister not only honor their mother by continuing to support junior tennis through her foundation, but also their parents’ spirit of giving through a variety of philanthropic endeavors.

“My dad said to me, ‘You know, money only allows you really two things: It allows you some freedoms and some options,’” Simmons said of her late father. “But the greatest joy of having a few nickels to rub together is that you can give them away.

“It’s the joy of giving them away, and I just count it all a joy.”

Read more of our conversation with Cindy Brinker-Simmons at peoplenewspapers.com.

Mark Cuban Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban ended 2021 by buying a whole danged town, but that wasn’t the only newsworthy endeavor by the Preston Hollow Mark Cuban resident.

(COURTESY DALLAS MAVERICKS) In November, he was named to the Texas Business Hall of Fame.

He also launched the Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company, which will offer an online pharmacy to reduce drug costs on 100 of the most prescribed generic drugs.

He is also the chairman and CEO of AXS TV and an investor on ABC’s Shark Tank.

Read about his foundation’s AI Bootcamps in this month’s STEAM section.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Cindy Brinker Simmons with her father, the late Norman Brinker; Little Mo stamp - Brinker Simmons mother, Maureen, was commemorated with a “Little Mo” stamp by the US Postal Service in 2019; Maureen Brinker was known as “Little Mo” Connelly during her stint as one of tennis’ elite. (PHOTOS: COURTESY WIPE OUT KIDS’ CANCER)

Jennifer and Peter Altabefs The couple who gives together is honored together — Jennifer and Peter Altabefs were honored with the Peter and Jennifer Altabef Texas Appleseed’s (COURTESY TEXAS APPLESEED) J. Chrys Dougherty Good Apple Award in recognition of their philanthropic work. Jennifer also was named one of TACA’s Silver Cup honorees for 2022.

Both spend time and resources supporting an array of nonprofits, from the Dallas Theater Center to Big Thought, to SMU, to KERA, to Children’s Health, and many more.

– Staff Reports

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 15

Readers’ Choice Person of the Year You Also Liked ...

Among the 10 nominees for Readers’ Choice Person of the Year, two more individuals stood out, garnering our poll’s second and third-most votes.

Courtney Dios

When students walk into Courtney Dios’ class at the Shelton School, they aren’t just sitting down in front of any teacher – they’re getting time with an alumna who understands exactly how they feel.

The Highland Park native said she struggled in school Courtney Dios before finding her (COURTESY PHOTOS) home at Shelton as a student.

As a teacher, she offers her students a “life hacks” class that teaches sewing, cooking, gardening, and even basic survival skills.

“My goal is to teach them how to work smarter, not harder, and give them the knowledge where if they were put in a situation, they would be more confident,” she said.

Izzy Martin, surrounded here by her parents Christine and David and siblings Luke, Madeleine, and Faith, hasn’t let her cancer diagnosis dim her desire to help others.

(PHOTOS: LYONS PHOTOGRAPHY, TI ADORO STUDIOS)

‘One of the Best People I Have Ever Met’

ESD student battles cancer but focuses on caring for others

By Bethany Erickson

bethany.erickson@peoplenewspapers.com

When you’re a dancer, you’re prepared to get injured sometimes. For 11-yearold Isabelle “Izzy” Martin, a dance injury turned out to be much more severe.

But it’s what happened as she fights cancer that earned the Episcopal School of Dallas student more than 900 votes in our Readers’ Choice Person of the Year for 2021.

On Feb. 13, 2020, Izzy injured her leg at dance class — and it turned out to be a broken femur, which didn’t jibe with the low-impact incident.

Tests revealed that she had stage four osteosarcoma — a bone cancer. She’s been battling it ever since. “ Despite having 13 surgeries, including a full femur replacement and a skull surgery, she has not only maintained a positive attitude but has also spent countless hours helping the community,” one nominator said.

“She’s donated hundreds of care packages for Austin Street Center, is an inaugural member of United Way’s ‘Teens United,’ and has raised over $200,000 for Children’s Hospital and pediatric cancer research.”

But if you ask Izzy, she’ll say that what

she hopes is that her actions will result in better funding for osteosarcoma research and awareness.

“My entire life, I have always believed that knowledge is power,” she said. “So, when we know more about something, we can do more about it. When I first got diagnosed, we learned how little funding goes into pediatric cancer, and specifically osteosarcoma. I want people to know that they can make a difference, no matter their circumstances.”

As she’s navigated her illness, she’s made quite an impression on her friends and teachers, too.

“Izzy’s commitment to engaging with the ESD community has been inspiring to witness,” said Jonathan Chein, ESD’s head of middle school.

Allison Darnell, sixth-grade dean and math teacher, admires both Izzy’s determination and “caring heart.”

“With her strength, determination, can-do-attitude, and humor, nothing limits her. She is so hard-working and determined,” Darnell said.

“Though facing significant physical challenges, she has enthusiastically embraced life and lives it to the fullest,” said ESD chaplain and religion teacher the Rev. Tim Kennedy. “Izzy should be the Person of the Year because of her

Izzy should be the Person of the Year because of her love of life, her insistence on moving forward expeditiously, and her dedication to making the most of the precious time that we have.

The Rev. Tim Kennedy

love of life, her insistence on moving forward expeditiously, and her dedication to making the most of the precious time that we have.”

“There is not a flaw about her,” said classmate Wynne Horton. “She is one of the best people I have ever met.”

“Izzy is so funny and the toughest, smartest person I know,” agreed classmate McCall Moore. “She still gets through school just as well as anyone else and never feels sorry for herself.”

With her looking to start her fourth treatment protocol in 2022, Izzy said she has lots of hopes for the year, including “finding more ways to support things I care about,” such as the Austin Street Center and the Osteosarcoma Institute.

She grinned and added one other thing. “I guess I wouldn’t mind having another dog in the family.”

BE #TEAMIZZY The #TeamIzzy Osteosarcoma Science Fund with the Osteosarcoma Institute raises money to fund a breakthrough clinical trial or research study to advance treatments, survival rates, and ultimately find a cure for osteosarcoma.

Make a gift of any amount to her fund: secure.osinst.org/a/teamizzy Proceeds from the sales of her #TeamIzzy gear – bonfire.com/store/ teamizzy/ – also help her support Austin Street Center.

James T. “Brad” Bradley

Few personalities have been as constant a presence at the AT&T Cotton Bowl Classic as celebrated sports photographer James T. “Brad” Bradley. The World War II veteran photographed his first Cotton Bowl game in 1948 when SMU football standout Doak Walker was in his heyday and remains the only sports photographer in the Cotton Bowl Hall of Fame.

“Through the years, Brad be- James T. Bradley came college football’s favorite photographer,” Bradley’s biography on the Cotton Bowl’s website reads. “Few can match his years of service to a bowl game. A permanent fixture at the AT&T Cotton Bowl, his streak of consecutive games worked has reached an unprecedented 59 games.”

Bradley’s father-in-law, Jim Laughead, had been hired by SMU as a photographer before that in 1947 and quickly asked Brad to join him.

“The business became known as Laughead Photographers and was located on Hillcrest immediately across the street from SMU,” said Gerry York, SMU Heritage Hall curator. “In later years, after Laughead retired, the business became known as Bradley Photographers.”

Bradley has covered more than 40 colleges and several NFL teams. In the summer of 2018, the College Football Hall of Fame had an exhibit dedicated to him and his photography.

The family business continues from his University Park home, where Brad and his son, Jimmy, still take photos for SMU. Brad was named University Park’s Citizen of the Year in 2019 and serves on the city’s Facilities Naming Committee.

— Staff reports

16 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

Sports

PAUL, PANTHERS SHIFT GEARS TO WIN THIRD STRAIGHT TAPPS TITLE Parish tried a new recipe to keep its remarkable run going

He completed more than 65 percent of his passes as the Panthers averaged 47.2 points per game.

This was the type of game you want to have to close out your senior year.

Andrew Paul

Parish Episcopal, unbeaten against private-school competition, capped a 12-1 season by earning its third straight TAPPS Division I crown.

By Todd Jorgenson People Newspapers

F

or Parish Episcopal, winning three consecutive TAPPS Division I state titles wasn’t simply a matter of repeating the same formula.

Instead, the Panthers found success in reinventing themselves, especially in the case of their high-powered offense, which was as dominant as ever in a 56-17 thumping of district rival Midland

Christian in this year’s championship game.

In 2019 and 2020, Parish relied primarily on an aerial attack behind record-setting quarterback Preston Stone, who’s now at SMU. But with freshman Sawyer Anderson stepping in this season, the Panthers were able to adapt with a run-based attack centered around Andrew Paul. The latter racked up more than 2,500 yards and 42 touchdowns during a remarkable

senior campaign.

“We had an answer every time that Midland Christian pushed us, and that answer was Andrew Paul,” said Parish head coach Daniel Novakov. “He had a tremendous game, and our guys just seemed to get better and better as the game went on.”

Paul ran for 1,100 yards and 16 touchdowns in three playoff games, an eye-popping performance that has put him on the recruiting radar for top college programs around the

(PHOTO: WILEY WILLIAMS)

country. He accumulated 338 yards and four scores in the title game.

“This was the type of game you want to have to close out your senior year,” said Paul, who transferred to Parish from Keller Central before his junior season. “This is such an amazing feeling. This team accomplished so much this year.”

That took some pressure off Anderson, who thrived by throwing for almost 2,900 yards and 32 scores, with just six interceptions.

Blake Youngblood led the receivers with 953 yards on 64 catches, including 13 touchdowns.

And a defense led by Daniel Demery, Keegon Addison, and others helped Parish outscore its opponents by an average margin of almost 30 points.

The Panthers ended the season with 11 straight wins and have earned 15 victories in a row against private-school competition overall. Parish is the first program to win three consecutive Division I crowns since Fort Worth Nolan in 2011-13.

With Anderson and other dynamic playmakers set to return in 2022, the Panthers have laid the foundation for a dynasty that shows no signs of slowing down.

Robert Thomas contributed to this story.

Horns Up: Turnaround Started Off the Basketball Court

Improved chemistry, new mindset have future looking bright at W.T. White

By Todd Jorgenson People Newspapers

The resurgence in the W.T. White High School boys basketball program has come from looking forward rather than back.

That future-focused approach led the Longhorns to the Class 5A playoffs last season — a big step for a program that had languished near the bottom of its district. And this year, they are eager to turn more heads.

“There was a lot of people doubting that we would do anything,” said senior guard Jamar Bates, who has been in the program the past four years. “You didn’t hear about W.T. White going to the playoffs.”

WTW head coach Patrick Washington, who took over the program in 2020 after a long run of success at Woodrow Wilson High, emphasized team chemistry and sports psychology.

He introduced an annual retreat that included bonding activities. “Ten toes in”

became the team’s motto.

The idea, he said, was building a growth mindset that raised expectations both on and off the court.

“Deep down, every child craves discipline. We try to preach that and don’t cut corners on that,” Washington said. “I’m excited about where we’re headed.”

A year ago, the Longhorns qualified for the playoffs by finishing fourth in District 11-5A, highlighted by an eight-game winning streak.

Even though that postseason appearance ended abruptly with a lopsided loss to perennial power Lancaster in the first round, it turned heads to the extent that more elite players wanted to join the team.

It gave Washington the incentive to boost W TW ’s nondistrict schedule, including outof-state opponents and top area tournaments. So, if the Longhorns return to the playoffs in February, they will be more prepared. The result was a promising 9-2 start.

Deep down, every child craves discipline. We try to preach that and don’t cut corners on that.

Patrick Washington

FROM LEFT: Such newcomers as Louis Conner and Dre Cole have made an immediate impact for W.T. White this season. (PHOTO: CHRIS MCGATHEY) “We needed to be tested early on and see where our mental focus was,” Washington said. “Can we carry over what we’ve been doing in practice?”

WTW is led by a versatile lineup including Dre Cole, Raul Nieves, Charles Fofanah, and P.J. Washington, the coach’s son.

Bates said the returnees are eager to

show that last year wasn’t a fluke, and they are setting the foundation for long-term success.

“It’s been a change of mentality. It’s a different level of basketball.” Bates said.

“It’s been a huge change of trying to adapt to a new system. Now we can go anywhere with this team.”

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 17

18 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

The Big Reveal

Hillcrest basketball’s bespoke suits are all about team pride, learning

By Bethany Erickson

bethany.erickson@peoplenewspapers.com

If it looks like Hillcrest High boys basketball players are getting off the bus with a little more, well, swagger these days, it’s probably because they’ve taken suiting up to the next level.

The team is dressing in suits custom made for each player by Reveal Suits, complete with a lining festooned with the school’s logo.

Getting them on the students started with a desire by head coach Kelan Jones to elevate his program and prepare his team for what happens after high school, too.

“There’s a sense of confidence in knowing that you are wearing a suit that is sized for you, and you’re easily identifiable as to what school you belong to,” he said. ‘It’s also a conversation piece, and it gives an opportunity to speak about the program, what it involves, what it requires, what it demands, and people want to be a part of that because they’re so intrigued by your look.”

In addition to confidence, he said, it prepares them for when they might play college ball.

“I’m building a program, inside and out,” Jones said. “When they leave me, they’re going to college, and they’re expected to dress a certain way, right? Get on the buses for traveling, being in interviews, meetings, things like that. That’s what we’re trying to establish here — professionalism.”

Jones said he thinks the experience of designing and fitting a suit will serve his players well for years to come.

“They now know their chest size; they know their neck size. They know their arm length — all things they never looked at,” he said. “They’re learning something they probably didn’t have an opportunity to learn, and because of this experience, they were able to learn it a little bit earlier than some.”

Jones said that alumni wanted to do something for the boys, and he liked what Reveal Suits and owner Carlton Dixon were doing on the collegiate and professional sports level.

“He just had a vision for his young men looking sharp and professional on game day,” Dixon said. “He was able to get the necessary support from the school to pull it off.”

Dixon said they took the boys through

That’s what we’re trying to establish here — professionalism.

Kelan Jones

The Hillcrest boys basketball team became the first high school to suit up in bespoke duds crafted by Reveal Suits. (PHOTOS: COURTESY REVEAL SUITS)

the process of being fitted for a suit, and they could help design it, choosing their lapels, buttons, and more.

“You know, we were just talking as we were about to dismiss, and this player raised his hand and said, ‘I just want to thank you because I feel so sophisticated right now,’” he said. “And he had just picked out the suit — he hadn’t even received it yet.”

Dixon said that he is already fielding phone calls from other high schools inquiring about suits. Jones said he hopes that the basketball team is only the first of many Hillcrest teams to get the experience.

“If I can start with the boys basketball

team, we’re hoping to expand it, so we have more students, not just basketball, but more students to be able to dress up in a professional manner,” he said.

Learn more about Reveal Suits and its partnership with Hillcrest High at peoplenewspapers.com.

Visit Venture X Brani Centre take a tour and get a WEEK FREE!

Scan to visit us online!

Venture X Dallas – Brani� Centre provides an inspiring and �exible coworking o�ce with a selection of semi-private dedicated and shared desks, fully furnished private o�ces, and move-in-ready space for teams with the creative Loft and the light-�lled, glass-walled Penthouse Unwind and collaborate in the sun-drenched café and lounge and host your next in-person or virtual meeting in the fully equipped, hi-tech conference rooms.

Call 972.430.8050 to arrange your free private o�ce for a day!

7701 Lemmon Avenue

At Love Field, in the Brani

Centre on the corner of Lovers & Lemmon

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 19

Hard to Find in Highland Park!

3207 Saint Johns Drive $2,325,000 Downstairs Primary / 3 Car / Full Guest Quarters Susan Baldwin 214.763.1591 susan.baldwin@alliebeth.com

Quintessential Showplace SOLD! 3616 Greenbrier Drive — SOLD Offered for $3,995,000 5 Bed / 4.1 Bath / 5,711 Sq.Ft. Doris Jacobs 214.537.3399 doris.jacobs@alliebeth.com

20 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

Comfortable Conversation 3616 Haynie Avenue $3,795,000 5 Bed / 6,163 Sq.Ft. / Pool Susan Bradley 214.674.5518 susan.bradley@alliebeth.com

Marc Ching’s

Market Insight Park Cities and Preston Hollow markets are prime for anyone looking to sell. Low interest rates, elevated values from increased demand & low supply are a few factors allowing home owner’s to prosper in this market. Call me for any real estate needs.

Marc Ching 214.728.4069 marc.ching@alliebeth.com

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 21

A Classic Beauty 5138 Deloache Avenue $12,000,000 6 Bed / 7.2 Bath / 11,185 Sq.Ft. Alex Perry 214.926.0158 alex.perry@alliebeth.com

Recently Sold Devonshire Home — PRIVATE SALE Offered at $3,269,000 Clarke Landry 214.316.7416 clarke.landry@alliebeth.com

All listing information, either in print or electronic format, is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and listing broker is not responsible for any typographical errors or misinformation. Prospective buyers are instructed to independently verify all information furnished in connection with a listing. This information is current as of the distribution of this material, but is subject to revisions, price changes, or withdrawal without any further notice. Allie Beth Allman & Associates strictly adheres to all Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity laws and regulations.

22 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

Sold in Preston Hollow 4219 Park Lane $3,095,000 5 Bed / 5.1 Bath / 5,868 Sq.Ft. Juli Harrison 214.207.1001 juli.harrison@alliebeth.com

6507 Missy Drive — SOLD $540,000 4 Bed / 2.1 Bath / 2,533 Sq.Ft.

4609 Mockingbird Lane — SOLD Private Sale 4 Beds / 3 Bath / 2,870 Sq.Ft.

Tim Schutze | 214.507.6699 tim.schutze@alliebeth.com

Beth Parks | 214.444.4176 beth.parks@alliebeth.com alliebethallman alliebeth.com

All listing information, either in print or electronic format, is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and listing broker is not responsible for any typographical errors or misinformation. Prospective buyers are instructed to independently verify all information furnished in connection with a listing. This information is current as of the distribution of this material, but is subject to revisions, price changes, or withdrawal without any further notice. Allie Beth Allman & Associates strictly adheres to all Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity laws and regulations.

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 23

Business

BOTANICAL BUSINESS BLOSSOMS WITH STUDIO OPENING

PH entrepreneur-mom counts on teammates at work and home

By Samantha Ponce Special Contributor

C

ourtney G o l d b e r g ’s low-maintenance botanical arrangements business began out of a desire to decorate her Preston Hollow home with greenery.

The renovation budget for the Goldbergs’ ranch-style home didn’t allow much for professional plant décor, so she began creating low-maintenance terrariums and modern botanical designs.

Soon family, friends, and potential customers took notice, and Urban Spikes began as a home business.

We all have to do our part. I don’t think you can do it alone.

Courtney Goldberg “Our home was a big part of the beginning of my business because it gave me this space to evolve the business,” Goldberg said.

She had worked in public relations for Edelman’s Dallas office, managing brand communications and events such as Lollapalooza and South

by Southwest for the likes of the Dickies, Hilton Anatole, Wyndham Resorts, Nissan, and Metro PCS.

FROM LEFT: The Urban Spikes botanical arrangements team members McKenna Humphrey, Courtney Goldberg, Jennifer West, and Yulianna Rodriguez. (PHOTOS: ASH GONGORA)

In 2016, Goldberg, now a mother of three boys younger than 9, decided to leave the corporate world to have a more flexible schedule and focus on her growing family.

Her botanical design hobby bloomed into a business as she realized there were few options for low maintenance, luxurious plant designs for people with busy lifestyles.

Goldberg created Urban Spikes to offer the happy medium between everyday nurseries and high-end floral shops.

She operated out of her home for the first three years, working pop-up events, holiday markets, and online sales.

Shortly before the pandemic, she moved Urban Spikes out of her living room and garage (much to the delight of her husband, Chad) and opened a new design studio northwest of Galleria Dallas in Farmers Branch.

From there, her team of four creates custom designs for customers’ homes and offices, and as pandemic protocols have loosened, they have welcomed customers into the store.

Urban Spikes recently celebrated its fifth anniversary, and Goldberg’s 14th wedding anniversary arrived in December.

Managing a small business and family of young children requires a solid team at home and work, she said. “We all have to do our part. I don’t think you can do it alone.”

Shannon Wynne: Restaurateur, Preservationist, Conservationist Shannon Wynne has been called many things over the years, most notably “successful restauranteur” and perennial “cool kid.”

Raised in Highland Park, Shannon is known for creating some of Dallas’ most vibrant clubs of the ‘80s and ‘90s – now just memories without landmarks as most of the buildings that housed his KERSTEN RETTIG ventures have been demolished.

Today, he co-owns and operates five successful restaurant concepts: Flying Fish; Flying Saucer Draught Emporium; Meddlesome Moth; Rodeo Goat; and Miriam Cocina Latina. All are visually rich with particular cultures, from Flying Fish’s East Texas fish camp vibe to Rodeo Goat’s rustic Texas barn to Miriam’s radiant, warm, and understated elegance.

Shannon’s a preservationist, a supporter of preserving something, specifically historic buildings and artifacts. He has advocated for maintaining the architecture of the Park

Cities. Largely, and sadly, to no avail.

He would like to talk to folks who come from other states and tear down some of the community’s most important houses.

“I would tell them that the homes were built by significant architects,” Wynne said.

“We had our own style, a prairie style. We didn’t create it; it wasn’t ours, but it was certainly [prevalent] in this region.”

His success is likely due to his authenticity and brilliant insight into people and places.

The blocky styles that are replacing the architectural gems don’t reflect the history of this place, he added. Nor do they honor it.

Wynne also has a heart for East Texas, specifically Caddo Lake, and has built an outdoor amphitheater there to allow locals to host fundraising events for the lake and its surrounding natural elements. One of Texas’ few natural lakes, Caddo, has been infiltrated by dangerous plant life that threatens to

Shannon Wynne says, “Building is Fun.” (PHOTO: JIMMY NGO)

choke out native plant and aquatic life, and, true to form, the preservationist made a short film about it to help raise awareness.

With his restaurants now in six states, preserving the cultures that make his concepts so special has not been easy.

Restaurant success is sometimes just

catching lightning in a bottle, but Wynne’s done it. His success is likely due to his authenticity and brilliant insight into people and places. Shannon and his partners have succeeded in this notoriously fickle business and, thankfully, survived the pandemic.

In a quick round table of favorites, Shannon revealed some of his go-to menu items in Dallas. Carbone’s Lasagna, which he says is the best in town; Las Palmas’ Spinach and Crab Salad; any fish at Montlake Cut, and Miriam’s Ceviche, which includes tiger shrimp and baby octopus and might well be the best bite of food you’ll ever eat.

At 70, Shannon is looking outward and onward. The friend, mentor, employer, husband, dad, and now “Shan Daddy” to three grandchildren born in the last year isn’t retiring. “Building is fun,” he said of his projects, including the restoration of historic homes in the Cedars.

Keep building and preserving, Shannon.

Dallas is better for it.

Follow Kersten Rettig, a Park Cities-based writer with 30-plus years of experience in food and beverage marketing and public relations, on Instagram @KerstenEats.

24 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

HOUSE OF THE MONTH HALL Arts Residences

Dr. Barbara Sturm

(PHOTO: NATHAN SCHRODER)

D.L. Mack’s

(PHOTO: COURTESY VANDELAY HOSPITALITY)

Tootsies (PHOTO: TAMYTHA CAMERON)

Comings and Goings

D.L. Mack’s

6501 Hillcrest Avenue The American-style tavern recently opened in the 2,400-square-foot former home of the Biscuit Bar in University Park with an outdoor garden patio. The menu includes Chicago-style thin-crust pizza, cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, and the McCarthy salad with grilled chicken, cheddar, beets, avocado, tomato, and egg tossed with ranch dressing.

Dr. Barbara Sturm

Highland Park Village The sought-after aesthetic doctor recently opened her latest eponymous boutique and spa, offering the skincare line, facials, treatments, and services she’s known for, plus experiential elements such as treatment rooms, a tea bar, and power napping stations. The Park Cities boutique also is her first to feature a hairstyling room where customers can try her new hair and scalp collection.

(PHOTOS: COURTESY BRIGGS FREEMAN SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY)

R

arefied air: Imagine life above dynamic Dallas, in its finest luxury high-rise. HALL Arts Residences boasts pure architecture, unrivaled luxuries, and a unique focus on health and wellness.

With just 48 homes in the sleek 28-story tower, residents have the best of both worlds – peace and privacy within blocks of dining, shopping, and cultural offerings in the Dallas Arts District. Every home at 1747 Leonard Street offers 11-foot ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, sweeping views, and state-of-the-art luxuries, such as

Bulthaup kitchens, Gaggenau appliances, and Dornbracht kitchen and bath fittings.

The building’s top-notch amenities include valet and concierge services, a resort-style pool, fitness studio, wine room for entertaining, wine cellar for private storage, full catering kitchen, private dog park, and private putting green. The building’s many health-friendly features include multilevel air filtration, sounddeadening floor membranes, and interiordesign palettes that optimize light to maximize comfort.

Two leading companies joining forces to serve the Dallas-Fort Worth and N. Central TX area.

TREES AND LAWN

Fish City Grill

Preston-Royal When the seafood eatery damaged by a tornado sweeping through the Preston-Royal area in 2019 returns to its former location in January, diners will find a larger restaurant with more tables as well as a small patio.

REOPENED Tootsies

The Plaza at Preston Center The popular retailer recently reopened

The Center for Integrative Counseling and Psychology 4305 MacArthur Ave. The counseling and mental health services provider initially founded in 1968 recently celebrated the dedication of a new central office building off Lemmon Avenue with therapeutic spaces for children and families and training facilities for the professional development of clinicians.

COMING Douglas Bar and Grill

Snider Plaza A full-service barbecue eatery by Wall Street executive turned pitmaster (and Park Cities resident) Doug Pickering is expected to open next to CVS in February. The menu will feature what Pickering calls “elevated Texas cuisine,” including barbecue staples like brisket, ribs, and sausage, as well as salad options, burgers, and more. For those who want a drink with dinner, there will also be a selection of wine, bourbon, and tequila.

– Compiled by Rachel Snyder

rth ProvisSnuggle a E Up

n Co. io

Feed your

REOPENING

in its longtime home after damage from Winter Storm Uri forced the store to relocate temporarily for 10 months. David Droese, principal at Droese Raney Architect, who had a hand in the original design of the store 25 years ago, revamped the space. The store consolidated to one floor, added additional dressing room space, and a bar that will feature festive seasonal cocktails year round.

Whole

NOW OPEN

Outside

Learn more about our Eco-friendly programs on our website.

214.528.2266 | savatree.com

WholeEarthProvision.com

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 25

26 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

Schools

ESD TENNIS BUDDIES UP TO TEACH DOWN SYNDROME ATHLETES

School provides courts, volunteers to promote fitness, friendships

By Amber Billops People Newspapers

D

allas’ growing Buddy Up Tennis program had a need. Episcopal School of Dallas had facilities and people who could help.

As a volunteer with one and girls tennis program director for the other, coach Julie Schiller knew Buddy Up was evaluating new clinic locations and that ESD has six beautiful tennis courts that don’t get as much off-season use.

“We were happy to offer the courts up and make them available for the program,” she said.

Buddy Up Tennis for children and adults with Down syndrome combines tennis, fitness, and social activities. The Dallas Chapter, launched in March 2019, has grown to be the largest in the nation.

You can tell the kids are having a blast when we are there, and the personalities really come out.

Julie Schiller “It’s a program that is set up to give the participates something to look forward to, and just an outlet for them to get a chance to be physical and develop their skills,” Schiller said.

Each week, athletes are partnered with volunteer Buddies for a clinic consisting of 30 minutes of fitness conditioning followed by 60 minutes of tennis instruction.

ESD junior Sophia Ukeni works with Anika Engels, and sophomore Dalyan Prieto-Akmansoy works with Wolfgang Morin through Buddy Up Tennis.

Not pictured: Junior Grace Exall and sophomore Easterly Yeaman also volunteer with the program. (PHOTOS: ALAN WEISSMAN) “It is a unique way to have a chance to volunteer and do some good,” the coach said, adding her students have responded enthusiastically to the opportunity. “They get to be out there and see those smiles and make a difference.”

ESD junior Sophia Ukeni and sophomore Dalyan Prieto-Akmansoy were among the ESD students quoted in a story posted on esdallas.org.

“Being surrounded by such hardworking athletes who were determined to learn and develop their skills in the sport was extremely rewarding,” Ukeni said.

Prieto-Akmansoy enjoys the warmups where participants jump hurdles, walk balance beams, and run around cones. “It’s so nice seeing their faces after they finish because they look genuinely happy and feel accomplished.”

Athletes are partnered with their volunteer Buddies to provide support, develop friendships, and reinforce the coaches’ instructions.

Coaches implement the tennis curriculum specifically created for athletes with Down syndrome.

“The effects on the Buddy Up athletes are tremendous,” said Schiller, who’s been involved with the

Possibilities Await You at Parish Episcopal School.

Midway Parent Coffee & Tours (3rd – 12th grade) Wednesday, January 5 at 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, January 19 at 8:30 a.m.

program for two years. “There are ‘bigger picture’ things we are working on with the participants like social interaction and lifestyle development, while also working on physical fitness.”

The Buddy Up Tennis program serves athletes as young as 5 and has one participant approaching 55, according to the Buddy Up For Life website.

“Tennis is medium for us to be out there, but it is a great thing for them to work on, too,” Schiller said.

“I think it’s social, it’s active, and it gives them a chance to do something that might not always be

available to them.

“You can tell the kids are having a blast when we are there, and the personalities really come out,” she said. “Even the parents too: They come up to us afterward, and you can really feel their gratitude and get a sense of what it really means to them.”

BE A BUDDY Visit buddyupforlife.org to learn about volunteer opportunities and upcoming clinics.

Hillcrest Parent Coffee & Tours (PreK 3yrs old – 2nd grade) Tuesdays, January 11 & February 1 at 9:30 a.m.

Parent Coffee with Dave Monaco, Allen Meyer Family Head of School (All grades) Midway campus, Wednesday, February 2 at 9:00 a.m.

Visit us online at parish.org or contact our Admission office at 972.852.8737

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 27

Believing in the Limitless Potential of Girls

LEARN WHY AN ALL-GIRLS SCHOOL INSPIRES CONFIDENCE HOCKADAY.ORG The Hockaday School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, sexual orientation, religion, national or ethnic origin.

Curious Independent

Collaborative Creative Engaged

Learn how we learn at AlcuinSchool.org

28 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

Romcom Screenwriter Got Her Filmmaking Start at Parish

Alex Yonks celebrates as her holiday television movie airs on Discovery+

By Josh Hickman

Special Contributor Young filmmaker Alex Yonks, whose new holiday romcom Candy Coated Christmas features Ree Drummond of The Food Network’s Pioneer Woman, got her ambitious start at Parish Episcopal High School.

“There was a lot of encouragement from the teachers, and it helped me develop into the filmmaker that I am today,” the screenwriter said.

She grew up playing competitive soccer then slid into creative entertainment at 14 when she began acting in school plays and local theater.

But an independent film studies class at Parish Episcopal gave Yonks, as she puts it, “the creative space to take chances with zero risk.”

“It created an environment which was more akin to college and then life, which, as kids, was good to know,” she said.

Yonks switched from acting to writing while taking a class at Cathryn Sullivan’s Acting for Film studio in Lewisville.

“Not connecting with any of the scripts I was given, on a whim, I wrote my own scene,” she recalled. “It turned out everyone loved it and really connected with it. And, full circle, I am now a guest speaker at one of their upcoming seminars.”

She then had a couple of shorts accepted into the Dallas International film festival.

“It just went from there,” Yonks said. “I kept writing and never stopped.”

But getting Candy Coated Christmas made was no piece of cake.

“It was a long haul,” Yonks said. “I wrote the whole script during the pandemic from Texas.”

Development started in early 2020. The script did the rounds in early 2021.

“We had no idea if it was going to get made — very much hurry up and wait,” Yonks said.

But when the green light came, filming commenced on location in Utah.

“Shooting a Christmas movie in 100-degree heat was interesting,” Yonks said, chuckling.

As for future productions, the busy writer is developing several projects — a young adult book adaptation, a couple of other holiday-themed projects, and a few television pilots.

“One is set in Texas and is based on my life here,” Yonks said. “That one is very close to my heart.

“There aren’t many shows that depict the mundane, normal type of kid in Texas, middle America — places other than L.A. and New York,” she lamented. “That’s who I was and who I am today. That’s the kind of shows I try to write and to get out there.”

She now splits her time between the Dallas area and Los Angeles.

“The way things are going, you can kind of work from anywhere, at least sometimes,” Yonks observed. “I love Texas. I still consider it my home. It’s part of who I am, and the kind of writer I want to be is rooted in Texas.”

A B O U T ‘ C A N D Y C O AT E D CHRISTMAS’ Before a trip to Hawaii, Los Angelesbased marketing executive Molly Gallant (Molly McCook) visits snowy Peppermint Hollow to check on an old family home. There she meets the owner of Bee’s Bakery (Ree Drummond) and gets invited to stay with the Winters family – Noah (Aaron O’Connell), Kim (Lee Garlington), and Dakota (Landry Townsend). They are renting the house where Molly’s mother grew up.

TOP: Alex Yonks on set in Utah. BOTTOM, FROM LEFT: Molly McCook, Yonks, and Aaron O’Connell. (PHOTOS: COURTESY DISCOVERY+)

Candy Coated Christmas airs on Discovery+.

GoPeer.org

Help Your Child Get the Test Score They Deserve Affordable, 1-on-1 Online Tutoring and Test Prep

Scan for a Free Trial and Session

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 29

Your big moment is one of a kind. Your care should be, too.

That’s why we’re proud to deliver Better as one of only two DFW hospitals, and the only hospital in Dallas County, with the highest-possible rating for Best Hospitals for Maternity from U.S. News & World Report.

Thank you for letting us be a part of your moment.

To learn how we can deliver your moment with award-winning care, scan the QR code.

Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health. ©2022 Baylor Scott & White Health. 99-DA-476722-BumcUsn_MCRank21_LH

30 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

(PHOTOS: PIXABAY, ILLUSTRATION: MELANIE THORNTON)

DISCOVER DISCOVER LEARN WONDER

CONNECT LEARN MORE. JOIN US FOR A TOUR. 11611 Inwood Road | Dallas, Texas 75229 www.thelamplighterschool.org

After Note About a Gun on Campus, a Brave and Anxious Conversation The first week in December, I picked up my fifth-grade son from school — a regular occurrence. But as I pulled away from the curb, he said something that gave me pause.

“Mom, there’s a BETHANY note in my E R I C KS O N take-home folder about the gun at school.”

“Maybe he’s talking about a lockdown drill they’re having,” I thought, hoped.

When we got home, I took out his folder and found the note. It explained that a student at Marsh Preparatory Academy had brought a gun to campus. Because the student rode a bus that picks up both nearby elementary school students and middle school students, there was a brief time that the student was on my son’s campus.

The note sought to reassure parents that “there was never any active threat.”

But as I sat there looking over the letter, I realized that my son

had sat down on the couch and was watching me. The anxiety was almost visibly rolling off him in waves.

I asked him how he was feeling.

Tears appeared in his eyes. He stared at the floor.

“What am I supposed to do if someone is shooting in my school?”

“Listen to your teachers and the other staff - very carefully,” I said past the lump in my throat. “Do everything they say, right away.”

“I think I might pray, too, in my head,” he said, a little tearyeyed. “I will pray that we are all protected, and I’ll pray that the shooter changes his mind and stops shooting.”

“That’s a good idea, too,” I said, silently losing my ever-loving, uh, stuff.

“Ms. Taylor isn’t that big, and she hates fighting. How is she supposed to protect all of us?” he demanded.

“I … don’t know. But I know she’d try real hard if she had to,” I said.

“That’s brave,” he said. “I get scared too easily. I’m not brave.”

“Sometimes it’s braver to admit

exemplary test scores AND LIVES.

Co-ed college preparatory for ages 3 through grade 12 | 4100 Merrell Road, Dallas, TX 75229 | 214-353-5740 | esdallas.org 5col_Lives_10x4_US_converted.indd 1

you’re scared and ask for help,” I told him.

“Can we snuggle on the couch?” he asked. “Today was very anxious for me.”

I tried to reassure him that the staff at school were trained to help keep kids safe. I was also trying to sound more convincing than I felt — teachers are paid so little, and have had to deal with so much recently, and here we are, expecting them to put their bodies between our children and a gunman if it came to it.

I would like to think that we can all agree that a middle schooler shouldn’t have unfettered access to an unsecured firearm that he or she can bring to school. I don’t know why the answers to that issue are so polarizing.

I don’t know how to tell my child that he’ll never have to — as one class in Oxford, Michigan did just days before we got the letter from our school — barricade the doors to his classroom and then jump out a window.

I don’t know how – because it might be a lie.

I appreciate the importance of exemplary test scores, but my goal is exemplary lives.

I am The Episcopal School of Dallas.

And I am igniting lives of purpose.

-Excerpt, ESD Manifesto.

Read more at esdallas.org/manifesto Experience ESD. esdallas.org/admission

@episcopalschoolofdallas l @esdadmission

12/8/21 1:25 PM

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 31

Cardiovascular care just a heartbeat away.

Your heart is at the center of everything you do, and at Methodist Dallas Medical Center, it’s at the center of everything we do. We offer a broad spectrum of heart care related to general cardiology, interventional and electrophysiology procedures, and surgery. From prevention and diagnosis to treatment, we’re here with comprehensive care to help you stay heart healthy. Trust. Methodist.

To take a free heart risk assessment visit MethodistHealthSystem.org/HeartHRA or call 877-637-4297 for a physician referral.

Texas law prohibits hospitals from practicing medicine. The physicians on the Methodist Health System medical staff are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Methodist Dallas Medical Center, Methodist Health System, or any of its affiliated hospitals. Methodist Health System complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

32 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

Society

ZOO TO DO: PENGUINS, FLAMINGOES, AND DALLAS’ BEST RESTAURANTS, OH MY!

Steve and Dawn Moore

Looking Ahead Go Red for Women Luncheon As a wife, sister, daughter, and colleague, Doreen Griffith understands firsthand “how caring for yourself is often last on your to-do list.” No wonder cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the United States.

But as the community volunteer chair of the 2021-2022 Dallas Go Red for Women movement, Griffith wants to see priorities change.

“I know we can take the message of self-care and prevention to even more women than ever this year,” said Griffith, who is the Dallas managing partner of Grant Doreen Griffith Thornton.

(COURTESY PHOTOS) The movement will celebrate local achievements during the 2022 Dallas Go Red for Women Luncheon at 10:30 a.m. Feb. 25 at Omni Dallas. Visit heart.org/dallasgored.

Dallas Business Hall of Fame

Calvert Collins and Vince Bratton

Jennifer and John Gates

Darlene Jones and Ellen Yung PHOTOS: THOMAS GARZA PHOTOGRAPHY

Chuck Steelman with Dallas Zookeeper and Owl

Thailand and Steven Roth

Kevin Fleck and Hanna Battah

With apologies to parents who can’t get enough of watching their offspring make faces at monkeys and snakes, I can’t imagine any better way to see the Dallas Zoo than the annual Zoo To Do fundraiser.

The after-hours affair, presented by The Eugene McDermott Foundation on Nov. 6, allowed patrons to stroll the award-winning Giants of the Savanna exhibit at a slothful pace (and pet a sloth, one of many animal ambassadors welcoming the 450 guests that evening.)

Even the surprisingly soft porcupine ambassador found nothing to get prickly about during the toddler-tantrum-free evening.

Adults could feed lettuce to the eager giraffes or graze the 24 restaurant stations while admiring lions, elephants, and zebras.

Animal meetups continued in the Wilds of Africa Plaza, where partygoers, when not chatting up an eagle owl, could enjoy more food, bid in the live auction, and gallop to music from Manhattan.

Credit event chairs Robyn and Chris Chauvin for hosting the wildly Instagrammable party and the likes of chef wrangler Brett Krafft and honorary chef chair Dan Landsberg for making it a delicious one as well.

And congratulations on a roaring $1 million-plus raised for education, animal care, and wildlife conservation.

– By William Taylor

Arcilia Acosta

Clark Hunt

Tom Luce

Fred Perpall

Junior Achievement Dallas will honor Arcilia Acosta, Clark Hunt, Tom Luce, and Fred Perpall as the newest laureates in the Dallas Business Hall of Fame.

“Each Laureate has contributed so much to the Dallas community, and they are fabulous business and philanthropic leaders,” said Jan Murfield, CEO/ president of Junior Achievement Dallas.

Acosta, president and CEO of CARCON Industries; Hunt, chairman of Hunt Sports Group; Luce, the founder of Texas 2036; and Perpall, CEO of The Beck Group, will join a list started in 1998.

The 2022 Junior Achievement Dallas Business Hall of Fame® event, scheduled for Feb. 26 at the Hyatt Regency Dallas, returns to an in-person format and will include students talking about how Junior Achievement has impacted their lives.

Visit jadallasbusinesshalloffame.org.

– Compiled by William Taylor

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 33

ERIC AND JE ANNIE NADEL

Turning Gratitude into Giving While you might know Eric Nadel as the legendary voice of the Texas Rangers, you might not know that Eric and Jeannie Nadel center their lives around gratitude and giving back. They partner with Communities Foundation of Texas (CFT) to support nonprofits addressing mental health, animals, youth, food insecurity and other causes that matter most to them through the Eric and Jeannie Nadel Charitable Fund, a donor-advised fund at CFT. They’ve also included their fund in their estate plans to support the causes they care about long beyond their lifetime through CFT’s Live Oak Society. Read their story of generosity at CFTexas.org/Nadel.

CFT is here to help you support the causes that matter most to you.

Call us at 214-750-4229, email giving@cftexas.org or visit CFTexas.org/most to learn more.

Join us to: Grow community giving Advance community equity Expand community impact

34 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

Living

CEO’S COVID TO DO LIST: DATA COLLECTION, WORK/LIFE BALANCE

LEFT: Parkland Center for Clinical Innovation CEO Steve Miff and his daughter, Cailin, enjoy a walk near their neighborhood. RIGHT: Miff with his daughter, Cailin, and his wife, Jen. (PHOTOS: COURTESY STEVE MIFF)

By Rachel Snyder

rachel.snyder@peoplenewspapers.com

M

any families balanced work with teaching their children at home when the COVID-19 pandemic caused schools and businesses to shutter in March of 2020.

Parkland Center for Clinical Innovation (PCCI) CEO Steve Miff did it while helping to lead coronavirus data collection efforts for Dallas County.

PCCI, a nonprofit healthcare analytics organization, uses

technology, data science, and medical expertise to study behaviors and other social determinants to provide insight into how healthcare providers can better treat patients.

PCCI has been lauded for the depth and breadth of information shared with the public, in partnership with Dallas County, about COVID-19 hot spots, vaccination rates, and similar topics.

“We’ve learned that actually the power of the data and the granularity of the data that we’ve been blessed to have here is unique,”

said Miff, extending kudos to Dr. Philip Huang and the Dallas County Health and Human Services for making it possible.

“While most (parts of the country) are working at the ZIP code level or the county level for information, we’re doing it on an individual level,” Miff said. “It gave us an opportunity to be so much more targeted on how we ensure that the services are done in an equitable way.”

When not working, like many families, Miff ’s has navigated the challenges of virtual learning and

educating a child at home. He said that “gave us a whole new appreciation for our teachers and what they do day in and day out.”

Working from home posed its own set of challenges.

“I think there’s this misconception that (working) f rom home, you have more time,” Miff said. “I think you end up working more. It’s a lot harder to separate the work f rom home because you’re not physically necessarily moving, so what we try to do is create physical spaces in the house where it’s work versus the

rest of the house.”

When not working or doing school assignments, he and his family try to keep active. He enjoys biking, his Peloton, and family walks around the neighborhood.

“When you have to go to work, inevitably, you have to get up, you have to move, or you have to walk,” he said. “Well, now you can’t have that, so being much more thoughtful and planning for physical activity – that’s been something that I’ve appreciated.”

He described his 9-year-old daughter completing her vaccine regimen in early December as a relief.

“It was special for us, but it was even more special for her,” he said. “She felt so excited, and I would use the word ‘liberated.’”

PANDEMIC MADE PERSONAL This is the third in a series about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on families in our community.

Visit peoplenewspapers. com/submit-a-tip/ to share your story.

Don’t Let Your Kitchen Backsplash Be a Missed Opportunity

Even though backsplashes can make great focal points, many people save picking their backsplash tiles for last.

Your kitchen design will look more impressive if you pick your backsplash tile early on and design around it.

MARGARET For those of you CHAMBERS who are designing a new home or planning on remodeling your current kitchen, you should find the following tips helpful.

A backsplash should cover the wall space between the countertop and upper cabinets above your range. Lately, I’ve noticed the newest trend is to have the backsplash continue up beyond the upper cabinets, sometimes even behind and around a vent hood or a window. To figure out how much square footage of tile you’ll need, multiply the width of your wall by the height. Then, increase that number by 10% to make sure you’ll have enough.

Since replacing tile is expensive, you can never be too careful making your choice.

Purchase a lot of different tile samples to take home (it’s cheaper than buying a lot of the wrong tile), then tape them to your wall and leave them up for a while.

Designers have established relationships

with showrooms, giving us more leeway to request a tile and then return it on short notice.

If you have countertops with a unique pattern or color running through them, it’s a good idea to pick a neutral backsplash tile, so you don’t draw attention away from your countertops. Of course, if your countertops are understated, you have more room to be creative and showy in your backsplash tile choice. Recently, my design firm has been using the same material for both the countertop and kitchen backsplash.

Choosing a timeless backsplash is essential if you’re planning on selling your house.

White subway tile is one option, but also consider picket tiles, square, or hexagon tiles.

White subway tile is also perfect for kitchens that have a lot going on visually.

Although there is no one-size-fits-all solution to finding the perfect backsplash, some tile choices will work in your kitchen better than others.

By considering your budget, lifestyle, and the rest of your kitchen’s aesthetic, you can easily narrow down your selections.

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

This mosaic tile backsplash’s gray and terracotta colors match other colors used in this Kessler Park home. (PHOTO: NATHAN SCHRODER) When possible, continue the backsplash behind the vent hood, like in this Dallas kitchen. Subway tile, like the taupe tile used in this bar area, is a classic choice for kitchen and bar backsplashes. (PHOTOS: MICHAEL HUNTER)

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 35

Make It a Fondue Winter Celebration With Swiss Comfort Food

After the hustle and bustle of the holidays, the relative quiet of January can be a welcome relief.

The chill and early twilight also provide an ideal setting to gather with friends, par ticularly if holiday scheduling conflicts made that CHRISTY ROST impossible.

Following a day of downhill or Nordic skiing, gathering around Swan’s Nest’s 123-year-old hearth for an apres ski fondue party is an especially fun way to be with friends.

While my husband Randy builds a fire in the hearth, I gently stir grated Gruyere and other APRES SKI FONDUE

cheeses in an electric fondue pot with chopped garlic, Dijon mustard, and white wine.

As the cheeses slowly melt, I place a basket of cubed rustic bread and a large platter of bite-size vegetables and sliced fruit on the coffee table within easy reach of our guests. Once the fondue is ready, the real fun begins as everyone uses long, slender forks to dip their bread and veggies into the silky, smooth mixture.

Fondue, which comes from the French word meaning “to melt,” originated in Switzerland in the 18th century as a way of stretching limited foodstuffs during the long winters. Farmers melted whatever cheese was on hand, added a splash of wine, and dipped stale bread into the mixture. From these humble ingredients came a proud Swiss comfort food tradition that was

introduced to Americans in the Swiss pavilion during the 1964 New York World’s Fair.

Today, fondue continues to be a popular, family-style winter

tradition in Switzerland.

Fondue parties are fun for all ages, interactive, super easy – and no snow is required! That’s why they’re ideal for winter gatherings

Directions: Grate the cheeses into a large bowl (Freezing the cheese for 15 minutes before grating makes it easier to grate). Sprinkle the cheese mixture with cornstarch and toss with your hands to coat.

Preheat an electric fondue pot to medium heat, add the garlic, and cook for 1 minute until it is

fragrant. Add the wine and mustard, stir well to mix, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and add the cheese, a little at a time, stirring well until it melts before adding additional cheese. Stir in chile flakes, if desired.

Heat until the cheese is creamy and smooth, stirring often.

To serve, arrange broccoli and

no matter where you live.

While chocolate fondue and chocolate fountains gained popularity over the last 20 years, I’ve found most adults prefer the traditional savory version, and children love it, too.

Every parent knows kids like anything they can dip, so fondue is a clever way to get them to eat more vegetables.

For large gatherings, or to transform the fondue party into a hearty dinner, add platters of rolled prosciutto, small meatballs, or cubes of summer sausage or cooked chicken breast.

Christy Rost is a cookbook author, chef on PBS stations nationwide, and longtime resident of the Park Cities and Preston Hollow.

Her Celebrating Home 4-minute cooking videos are available at youtube.com/ChristyRostCooks and christyrost.com.

(PHOTO: CHRISTY ROST)

Ingredients: ½ pound Gruyere cheese ½ pound Fontina cheese ¼ pound white cheddar or pepper jack cheese 1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch 1 ¼ cup Sauvignon Blanc or other dry white wine 1 clove garlic, peeled and minced

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Blanched broccoli and cauliflower florets Blanched asparagus Apple slices, sprinkled with lemon juice 1 baguette or rustic bread loaf, cut into 1-inch cubes

cauliflower florets, asparagus, apple slices, and bread cubes on a platter. For large groups, serve the bread cubes in a basket. Place the fondue pot, small plates, fondue forks, and the vegetable platter in the center of the table.

Yield: 6 servings

36 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com WEDDING

CASEY & JEFFREY BLACKWATTERS

C

asey Rose Blackwatters and Jeffrey Edward Blackwatters renewed their wedding vows on October 30, 2021, at The Laurel.

Casey’s grandmother, Gail Troglio, officiated the ceremony. Their original wedding took place in Breckenridge, Colorado, on August 8, 2020.

The bride is the daughter of Donna and John Watters of Dallas. She is a 2011 graduate of The Hockaday School. In 2015, she received a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Middlebury College. In 2020, she completed her Master of Public Health from UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, Department of Health Behavior. Casey is now a research associate at the Colorado State University Social Work Research Center.

The groom is the son of Sheri and Jeffrey Black of Tucson, Arizona. He is a 2013 graduate of the RAF Alconbury. In 2017, he received a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sustainability Science from Cornell University.

In 2018, he completed his Master of Science in Geography from the National University of Ireland at Galway. Jeffrey is currently a doctoral student and graduate research assistant at Colorado State University’s Department of Human Dimensions of Natural

Resources.

The bride walked down the aisle with both of her parents. For her wedding, Casey wore an exquisite gown designed by Reem Acra. The A-line gown featured an intricate bow detailed embroidery, which cascaded into a tulle skirt and train.

The design combined a delicate illusion neckline, corset bodice, and nude lining to show dimension.

The bride paired her gown with her sister’s blush European cathedral veil by Monvieve of Milan.

Assisting the bride were her sisters: matron of honor, Meaghan Watters Pedersen, and matron of honor, Keegan Bagalay. Her bridesmaids included Isabel Black, sister of the groom; Katie Hebeler, friend of the bride; and Lindsey Segler, cousin of the bride. In addition, Rowan Pederson, niece of the bride and groom, and Luke Segler, cousin of the bride, served as flower children.

Attending the groom as best man was Hollis Malkowski, friend of the groom. Groomsmen included Ryan Watters, brother of the bride and friend of the groom, and Jake Watters, brother of the bride.

Serving as ushers were Matthew Cunningham, cousin of the bride; Zach Cunningham, cousin of the bride; Erica Hsu, friend of the bride; Trisha Jain, friend of the bride; Dakota Holmes, friend of

P H O T O : S H A N N O N S K LO S S P H O T O G R A P H Y

the groom; and Cameron Taylor, friend of the groom. Ryan Watters, brother of the bride and friend of the groom, was the ring bearer.

The ceremony included readings selected by the bride and groom: “Oh The Places You’ll Go” by Dr. Seuss, read by the mother of the bride, Donna, and “The Art of Marriage” by Wilfred A Peterson, read by the mother of the groom, Sheri.

Bows and Arrows provided the

florals for the wedding and the reception in hues of burgundy and pink–pairing dahlias, garden roses, scabiosa, snowberries, chr ysanthemums, hyacinth, carnations, and snapdragons with an abundance of greenery. A “Rose” motif carried throughout the festivities as a nod to the bride’s middle name.

For the reception at The Laurel, the seating display consisted of laser-cut calligraphed cards placed

in ombre fashion on a wooden and boxwood wall, clad with abundant florals. In addition, laser-cut letters crafted in wood spelled out, “Be Seated With The Blackwatters,” against the boxwood.

The cocktail hour was hosted on the lawn, where guests enjoyed games such as giant Jenga and corn hole, with boards designed with the couple’s rose monogram. The “Bride’s Lavender Love Potion” specialty cocktail included dry ice, adding a smoking effect to the All Hallow’s Eve weekend.

The couple danced their first dance to “Stand by Me,” then the band Downtown Fever had guests packing the dance floor all night. Slo Mo Video captured guests against a floral-filled boxwood backdrop.

For dessert, The Laurel spread a table with an array of confections on plateaus and trays themed to the wedding and decorated with delicate florals. The couple’s priority was to have a donut wall with icing in the wedding hues to celebrate their favorite dessert. When It Clicks captured the wedding and the reception on video, Shannon Skloss Photography preserved the images. Caroline Events planned and coordinated the memorable occasion even securing a 1957 Ford Skyliner as the perfect get-away car for Casey and Jeffrey.

The newlyweds honeymooned in Cancun, Mexico, in July of 2021 and now reside in Fort Collins, Colorado.

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 37 WEDDING

KELLY MCKENZIE – VICTOR SAWYER

HEAR THIS! REGULAR CHECK-UPS ARE IMPORTANT TO YOUR HEALTH It is no secret that new studies have linked untreated hearing loss to serious health conditions such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, increased falls and hospitalizations. The good news is that healthy hearing and the use of properly fit hearing aids can not only prevent but can reverse some of these effects.

Have your hearing tested today!

We’re HERE TO HELP! Our hands-oncare for hearing health maximizes your hearing while providing exceptional individual care.

P H O T O S : M I K I S T U D I O S , ( LO N D O N , E N G L A N D )

M

ary “Kelly” McKenzie wed Victor A. Sawyer on the 16th of October 2021 at Somerley House, Hampshire, England.

The couple exchanged their vows under a 500-year-old oak tree on the grounds of the estate. A cocktail reception, dinner, dancing and fireworks in the parkland followed. The estate dates back to the mid-1600s, and Somerley has featured prominently in The Crown on Netflix.

Kelly is the daughter of Mike and Barbara McKenzie of University Park, Texas. Vic is the son of Mrs. Jean Sawyer of Reading, England.

For her wedding gown, the bride chose a tulle gown from Pronovias Atelier Collection featuring a sweetheart bodice and multi-layer skirt and train. The fingertip length veil was accented by a bespoke Hermione Harbutt headpiece of flowers crafted of freshwater pearls.

Francesca Price attended the bride as maid of honor. Bridesmaids included Megan McKenzie, Jillian Keenan, Claire McCarthy, Callie Anders, Michelle Toliver, and Maddy Daggett. Members of the house party were

Vanessa Lee and Nell Mead. Annabelle McKenzie served as flower girl.

Attending the groom as his best man was Colin Sawyer. Groomsmen included Scott McKenzie, Michael Dewberry, and Harry Miller. Sean Keegan and Ronnie Wise served as ushers. The ring bearer was Jack McKenzie.

The bride is a 2007 graduate of Highland Park High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Georgetown University, a Masters of Business Administration degree from UCLA Anderson School of Management, and a Master of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Reading (UK).

Kelly is a private mental health consultant specializing in LGBTQ+ issues. In January, she will begin work on her Master of Science degree in Counseling at SMU’s Simmons School of Education and Human Development.

Vic recently retired from a career with British Telecom to move to Dallas with Kelly.

After a wedding trip to Paris and Croatia, Vic and Kelly now reside in Dallas.

How to Help Your Pet Live a Longer, Pain-Free Life • Ensure MICROCHIP contact info is up-to-date with microchip provider • Regular CHECK-UPS (pets age 5-15x faster than we do, depending on year of life) • PREVENTION + Diagnostics (heartworm, flea/tick, blood screening) early detection increases prognosis + more cost effective • DENTISTRY: >80% pets have dental disease (many owners unaware pet is in PAIN, infection is spreading into bloodstream).

• Quality DIET & EXERCISE

FULL-SERVICE HOSPITAL + MED SPA 6125 Sherry Ln. (Preston Center) www.DallasVet.Net | 214.363.4561

DVC is a boutique neighbor-owned private veterinary practice serving Preston Hollow & Park Cities for over half a century

ANGELA MCLEAN

ACA, Audioprosthologist

DR. RYAN DUKIN

Au. D. Doctor of Audiology

Services Provided: • Otoscopic examination • Ear Cleanings • Hearing AidsMost Major Brands

mcleanhearingcenter.com 6160 Sherry Ln, Ste 100 Dallas, Texas 75225

• Assistive Listening Devices • Tinnitus Therapy

CALL NOW

to schedule your FREE consultation 45 day money back guarantee

214-363-4955

38 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING CONTENT LENTZ LANDSCAPE LIGHTING

THE PERRY-MILLER STREIFF GROUP

successfully beat themselves by an incredible 77%, with over $300,000,000 in sales closed

Outdoor Lighting Helps The Perry-Miller Streiff Group Surpasses Secure Your Residential Prior Year Sales by 77% This stunning home on Cochran Chapel Property was sold in 2021 with The Perry-Miller

in 2021. The team, whose nine members include Ryan Streiff, Jason Bates, Karen Fry, Charles Gregory, Lance Hancock, Courtney Jubinsky, Jamie Kohlmann, Laura Michelle and Dave Perry-Miller, specializes in luxury homes in Preston Hollow, North Dallas, Park Cities, Lakewood, Lake Highlands and anywhere else their clients need them to be.

“Starting out in January 2021, there were still many unknowns stemming from the

Streiff Group representing both sides and selling Off Market.

pandemic,” says team lead Ryan Streiff, “and it was a little hard to imagine this year being

2020 was the year that The Perry-Miller Streiff

where they needed to be. The numbers and successes were just a byproduct of that. We

Group reached a significant team milestone: #1

were also able to leverage our group’s connections to represent both sides on several sales.

Medium Team in Dallas, according to Wall Street

And more than a quarter of our solds volume never even made it into MLS.”

better than the last. So we just did what we always do and focused on helping our clients get

Journal and Real Trends, #2 team in Texas and #49 Team nationwide. They closed with over (PHOTO: CLARK CRENSHAW) Dallas, TX— Landscape lighting not only adds beauty and dimension to your home at night, but can also serve as a crime deterrent. In a past issue of Park Cities People, Highland Park Department of Public Safety Community Relations Officer Lance Koppa was quoted as saying, “adequate outdoor lighting could also prevent property crimes.”

$169,000,000-plus in real estate sales.

Contact the Perry-Miller Streiff Group today to discuss getting your property prepared for market before the highly anticipated spring selling season, or to get connected to terrific

Though the rankings for 2021 are not yet finalized, The Perry-Miller Streiff Group has

BRIGGS FREEMAN SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

entertainer’s dream, too, with a dining room

Elegance, Elevated

arbor-covered terrace that provides a

The true value of security lighting lies in its ability to deter trespassing in the first place. A home that is properly illumi-

that opens to a large patio with green space and multiple seating areas; an adjacent

listings. Visit DPMFineHomes.com to learn more or call 214.799.1488.

ALLIE BETH ALLMAN

spaces, a game room with a bar, a wine

Beautiful Beverly Drive

cellar and more primed for enjoyment with loved ones.

At 3644 Beverly Drive, the main house

shaded retreat; and an open-plan gourmet

dates back a century and has hosted

kitchen with onyx-topped island and

presidents, dignitaries and heads of state.

opulent La Cornue range.

With 12 bedrooms, you can welcome

nated gives the impression the residence is occupied and

The primary suite offers its own

trespassers are hesitant to venture onto a property where

covered patio. Other luxuries in the home?

Recently sold, the home at 3721 Beverly

someone could be home. They would much rather choose

A direct-access elevator, cedar-lined

Drive was renovated to accentuate huge,

a target that seems empty.

closet, Starpower audio, motorized Lutron

arched doorways and open spaces. The

Landscape lighting is also a great solution for security

visitors any time of year.

erty. By lighting the outdoor areas and the perimeter of a

2300 Wolf Street #3D, represented

by Faisal Halum and Noora Bass for $2,350,000.

shades and an ice machine that makes stately reputation. Historic manors line the

home, it gives homeowners more visual control over their

2300 Wolf Street #3D is represented

Life at the next level: Modern luxuries

by Faisal Halum and Noora Bass for

prestigious street near the Dallas Country

this

$2,350,000. Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s

Club, and people love seeing the elaborate

architecturally but are always grand. A

2,387-square-foot home on the third floor

International Realty, founded in the Park

lights displays during the holidays.

Federalist-style manor hearkening to the

of the Art Deco–style Residences at the

Cities in 1960, represents luxury homes,

The estates hold enthralling histories,

homes of New England also found a buyer

Stoneleigh — where the perks include a

high-rises, ranches, land and commercial

grand architecture and unique legacies. Allie

this year. The circa-1921 residence at

pool, theatre, spa and pet park.

properties.

briggsfreeman.com

Beth Allman & Associates has represented

3645 Beverly Drive even boasts a unique

website is a cutting-edge portal featuring

many of the homes along this thoroughfare.

performance stage for fun events.

properties, neighborhoods, schools, virtual

Built in 1920 and designed by Anton

purposes because it provides lighting throughout the prop-

surroundings. If there is a noise or disturbance, you are better able to see what is happening outside your windows.

If you have security cameras installed outside your home, visibility of whatever is in the camera’s view also improves substantially, especially after dark.

Richard Lentz, President of Lentz Landscape Lighting says, “We have many customers who are faced with living alone for whatever circumstance in their lives, and one of their first calls is to Lentz to install more outdoor illumination.

It gives them great piece of mind when we identify vulnerable spots to install customized security lighting.” One of Lentz’s long-time customers recently upgraded her lighting system to include special remote controls on some of her outdoor lights, thus enabling her to turn lights on and off if she heard something suspicious in her backyard. Additionally, Lentz noted, “We also design and install interior lighting systems featuring timers/remote controls that our clients

meet

classic

sophistication

in

2300 Wolf Street #3D offers two bedrooms,

two-and-a-half-baths

and

vary

To connect with a luxury real estate

charming updates with modern amenities

ALLIE BETH ALLMAN

Southwestern Blvd. The grand foyer

DeCarla Anderson Group Offers Tree Farm Getaway With Pool, Springs

for a seamless transition to remote living.

Listed

by

DeCarla

Anderson

for

$3,780,000, Harmony Springs Ranch features a large workshop, storage shop, a pool and spa, multiple water wells, two

Park Cities Homes Primed For Every Occasion

impresses with a curving staircase.

From the gourmet kitchen to the dramatic wet bar, there’s a lavish space for large-scale entertaining or cozy gatherings.

1000-gallon propane tanks, and a backup

If walkability is front of mind for you,

generator that can power the entire home.

make sure to tour 3305 Rankin St. Living

There is also a 1,000 square-foot guest

just steps from SMU and Snider Plaza,

house under construction on the property

you can quickly get to football games

to accommodate additional guests.

or enjoy lunch out with friends. Built in

Harmony Springs Ranch has all of the

2013, the University Park home spans

recreation, relaxation, and entertainment

targeting your home by increasing the risk of being caught.

Designed by architect Elby Martin, a Tuscan- inspired stone-clad estate home with Italian barrel tile roof, manicured 1.1-acre site with mature trees and landscape by Harold Leidner. Gourmet kitchen topped by a barrel brick ceiling is open to one of several family rooms. Custom Knotty Alderwood cabinetry with White Castle hardware provides storage. Two full-size SubZeros refrigerators, two Asko dishwashers, two gas Wolf ovens and warming drawer. Outdoor Kitchen equipped with a Wolfe outdoor grille and Subzero undercounter refrigerators, and electric screens. Resort like pool, cabana, turfed back yard, private guest house. Home is equipped with Geothermal HVAC and natural gas generator.

For more information please contact Kyle Crews (214) 538-1310.

estates

DAVE PERRY-MILLER REAL ESTATE

especially outdoors, discourages would –be intruders from

5335 Meaders Lane 6 Bedrooms | 6.2 Baths | 12,612 SqFt Offered For $9,750,000

Drive’s

expert, visit alliebeth.com.

gral part of any effective home security system. Lighting,

ALLIE BETH ALLMAN URBAN

Beverly

Korn, 3521 Beverly Drive has warm living

In summary, professionally- installed lighting is an inte-

or www.lentzlighting.com.

ideal for gatherings.

tours, architecture guides and more.

night. “

lighting, contact Lentz Landscape Lighting @ 972-241-0622

Its

to enjoy, including a two-story pool house

three patios with spectacular views. It is an

can customize when out of town or out of the house at

For more information about exterior/interior and security

home has 8,573 square feet of interiors Highland Park’s Beverly Drive has a

Sonic-style ice.

5,138 square feet.

options you need to leave city life behind.

Many Park Cities listings held by Allie

New builds also dot the Park Cities,

Looking for a getaway just outside of

To schedule a showing, contact

Beth Allman & Associates agents are

and Highland Park has a stunning home

Dallas with income-generating potential?

Anderson at 214-695-9043 or decarla@

ready for all your memorable occasions.

under construction at 4644 Southern

Harmony Springs Ranch, a 3,449 square

dpmre.com.

A circa-1920 home at 3521 Beverly

Ave. Scheduled for completion in spring

foot resort-style property near the East

Dave Perry-Miller Real Estate (dpmre.

Drive designed by Anton Korn is poised

2022, it features Marvin windows and

Texas town of Winnsboro, is located on

com) is a division of the Ebby Halliday

for elegant, modern living. In 2008, it

Visual Comfort lighting that make it

215-acres of lush forest certified by the

Companies, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate,

was renovated and expanded to create

worth the wait.

American Tree Farm System. Named after

with four locations that specialize in

a

the natural springs that originate from the

Preston Hollow, Park Cities, North Dallas,

floorplan.

property, Harmony Springs Ranch offers

Lakewood, East Dallas, Uptown, Kessler

three bedrooms and two baths, and

Park and Farm & Ranch properties.

updated traditional is available at 3817

search. Visit alliebeth.com.

EBBY HALLIDAY

knowledgeable, respected agents and a

ALLIE BETH ALLMAN

pleasant evenings spent with family, friends and good food.

A gorgeous modern at 4135 Valley Ridge Road has a bold kitchen, dining area and living area all in a one open space, so guests can catch up while enjoying appetizers around the island as they watch the kids play outdoors through the floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Family friendly and fashionable, this residence has four-bedrooms.

A 2018-built custom home in Midway Hollow has an open kitchen with all the latest trends. From its waterfall island to its gold accents and designer finishes, everything about 9941 Coppedge Lane is stylish and fresh.

Luxury leader Allie Beth Allman & Associates sells more homes priced at $2 million and above in Dallas County than any other brokerage and leads in the sale of homes in the Park Cities. Connect with a luxury real estate expert: alliebeth.com.

Ebby Halliday Realtors Serves Oklahoma

team of professionals dedicated to making buying or selling a home or property one convenient experience. While our skilled agents help them navigate the market, our

sophisticated, In

University

9,714-square-foot Park,

another

Cooking Up Memories In A Modern Kitchen

affiliated core-services companies handle mortgage, insurance and title needs with the utmost care. We are thrilled to offer those looking to buy or sell in Oklahoma the same great service we have long been known for in North Texas.”

Adds Kelly, “2021 has been a memorable

Ebby Halliday Realtors, the largest

year for the Ebby Halliday Companies.

residential real estate services company

It’s been a year of significant growth as

in Texas, also serves the residential real

we opened new North Texas offices and

estate needs of Oklahoma and those

expanded our presence in Oklahoma to

searching for a home in the state.

serve the needs of our valued clients.”

Don’t forget to connect with an agent, who can tell you about the private

Gone are the days of the design mindset when kitchens were tucked away and used only for prepping food. Today, they’re an extension of your living areas, and homebuyers want beautiful open spaces and expansive islands perfect for effortless gatherings.

“We are so excited to share that the

For more information about Ebby

Ebby Halliday Companies are open for

Halliday’s residential real estate services in

At these homes, represented by Allie

business in Oklahoma,” says President &

Oklahoma and to search for your Oklahoma

Beth Allman & Associates, the kitchens

CEO Chris Kelly. “Our clients benefit from

home, visit ebby.com/oklahoma.

have the potential to bring you many

offerings that you won’t find in an online

prestonhollowpeople.com | January 2022 39

SPECIAL ADVERTISING CONTENT ALLIE BETH ALLMAN

Find A Home For Gathering in Preston Hollow

These homes in Preston Hollow provide what you need to bring everyone together. Luxury leader Allie Beth Allman & Associates can help you find a home that fits the need for all your family entertaining this year.

Consider these exceptional homes in Preston Hollow.

Remember that your Allman expert can also show you homes that are only on a private listing available to the brokerage.

A three- and possibly four-bedroom home at 10852 Crooked Creek Court sits on a cul-de-sac between Strait Lane and Inwood Road. With a classic design and modern amenities, the home has superb areas for entertaining but also features quiet, smaller spaces.

Prefer mid-century modern design? A four-bedroom home at 4209 Meadowdale Lane was totally renovated in 2008-09. The result is a residence that keeps that MCM vibe while offering all the amenities for today’s lifestyle.

A large, one-level home with four bedrooms, including two master suites, recently sold at 5843 Preston Haven Drive. In 2019, this home underwent a $100,000 remodel that created a highly functional home – and an open kitchen that’s the perfect setting for entertaining.

The Allman firm sells more homes in Dallas County priced at $2 million and above than any other brokerage.

Photographs, letters, postcards, telegrams, clippings, magazines, catalogs, sheet music, jewelry, and dresses (on loan from the Texas Fashion Collection at the University of North Texas) bring Carrie Marcus Neiman’s career to life. (PHOTOS: COURTESY SMU)

SMU Exhibit Explores Life of Icon Carrie Marcus Neiman Many people know of Stanley Marcus and his genius for retailing, but many of the women who helped establish the Neiman Marcus reputation for excellence are much less familiar.

An exhibit at SMU’s DeGolyer Library offers a closer look at those women, including Carrie Marcus Neiman.

The remarkable woman with her brother, Herbert Marcus, Sr., and her husband, Al Neiman, founded the iconic luxury department store Neiman Marcus in 1907.

“An Eye for Elegance: Carrie Marcus Neiman and the Women Who Shaped Neiman Marcus” coincides with a new biography, A Girl Named Carrie, by Jerrie Marcus Smith.

From her girlhood in Louisville, Kentucky, to her move to Dallas, her marriage (and divorce), and her commitment to the success of “The Store,” Carrie Marcus Neiman emerges from the shadows of history.

She was indispensable in shaping the Neiman Marcus “look.” Her innate good taste in fashion and demand for the finest in fabrics and details helped create a nationally known store that rivaled those in New York and abroad.

The exhibit, which draws on family archives and the Stanley Marcus Papers at SMU, also directs attention to other talented women from the earliest days of Neiman Marcus: buyer Moira Cullen, first fashion promotions director Kay Kerr, interior designer Eleanor Le Maire, and food director Helen Corbitt.

This exhibition was made possible, in part, by support from Neiman Marcus, the Eugene

McDermott Foundation, Friends of SMU Libraries, SMU Women’s Studies, and professor Bonnie Wheeler.

– Staff report

I F YO U G O What: “An Eye for Elegance: Carrie Marcus Neiman and the Women Who Shaped Neiman Marcus” presented

by SMU’s DeGolyer Library When: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mondays through Fridays through Jan. 28 Where: The Hillcrest Foundation Exhibit Hall in the Fondren Library building, 6404 Robert S. Hyer Lane Online: smu.edu/libraries/degolyer/ Exhibits

C L ASSI F I EDS To place your ad in People Newspapers, please call us at 214-523-5239, fax to 214-594-5779, or e-mail to classified@peoplenewspapers.com. All ads will run in Park Cities People and Preston Hollow People and online. Pre-payment is required on all ads. Deadline for our next edition is Monday, Jan 3. People Newspapers reserves the right to edit or reject ads. We assume no liability for errors or omissions in advertisements and no responsibility beyond the cost of the ad. We are responsible only for the first incorrect insertion.

HOME SERVICES

BURIAL PROPERTY

Sparkman Hillcrest Plots 5 Spaces Garden of Roses.

Will divide. $15k each.

Dennis 214-532-0324

Texas Best Re Painting 40 years of experience

• High Quality • Dependable • Excellent Work

Master Painter Painting Contractor Call for a FREE Estimate

214-527-4168

FOR SALE

FIREWOOD DELIVERY SPLIT SEASONED OAK

972-333-7444

JEWELRY &

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY (214) 802-6797 ESTATE BUYERS We buy all types of Fine Jewelry, Watches, Bullion & Diamonds

IMMEDIATE CASH TO 24 HOUR PAYOUT CONSIGNMENT AVAILABLE 31 Years in Business Graduate Gemologist (GIA)

ADVERTISE HERE!

American Roof Tile and Slate Company

HOME SERVICES

Specializing in Slate & Tile Roofs

RTASCO TM

power wash Picky People Pick Park Cities

Home & Commercial Power Washing–Soft Washing

Window Cleaning Call today to schedule your quote

214-390-3377 parkcitiespowerwash.com

Locally Owned | Free Estimates | Park Cities References 1-800-464-3555 | Artasco199@gmail.com

40 January 2022 | prestonhollowpeople.com

Nothing compares.

B R I G G S F R E E M A N . C O M • # B R I G G S F R E E M A N • @ B R I G G S F R E E M A N • 214-350-0400

PRESTON HOLLOW

VICKERY PLACE

9900 Preston Road / $3,395,000

5219 Willis Avenue / $1,525,000

POGIR / 214-244-3103 / pogir@briggsfreeman.com

ALEX TRUSLER / 214-755-8180 / atrusler@briggsfreeman.com JENNIFER FERGUSON / 214-769-8099 / jferguson@briggsfreeman.com

BLUFFVIEW

PRESTON HOLLOW

5006 Shadywood Lane / 5,995,000

11595 E. Ricks Circle / $5,000,000

$

FAISAL HALUM / 214-240-2575 / fhalum@briggsfreeman.com

PENNY COOK / 214-384-2847 / ptcook@briggsfreeman.com

UNIVERSITY PARK

UNIVERSITY PARK

4032 Marquette Street / Listed for 1,550,000

4400 Greenbrier Drive / Off-market sale

$

SOLD

SOLD*

MALINDA ARVESEN / 214-354-7029 / marvesen@briggsfreeman.com DAVID ARVESEN / 214-354-6142 / darvesen@briggsfreeman.com

214-350-0400

VIDEO TOURS ON BRIGGSFREEMAN.COM/TOUR

*REPRESENTED BUYER

© 2021 Sotheby’s International Realty. All Rights Reserved.The Sotheby’s International Realty trademark is licensed and used with permission. Each Sotheby’s International Realty office is independently owned and operated, except those operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc.The Sotheby’s International Realty network fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. All offerings are subject to errors, omissions, changes including price or withdrawal without notice.

N E W LY P R I C E D

LUCY JOHNSON / 214-616-1288 / ljohnson@briggsfreeman.com

FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @BRIGGSFREEMAN AND #BRIGGSFREEMAN

PeopleNewspapers

PrestonHollowPeople

JANUARY 2022

ParkCitiesPeople

4

A Principal’s Prescription For Early Science Education

7

Girls, Need a Role Model?

Meet This Bat Woman

9

CSI: Ursuline - Academy Girls Are on The Case

(PHOTO: COURTESY DALLAS ISD)

Readying Your Children For The Careers of Tomorrow

B2 January 2022 | STEAM

DALLAS IN TOP 20 OF STEM JOB GROWTH

Space Camp Schools ready students for related career fields Alumnae Discovers Her Out of This

By Bethany Erickson World Passion bethany.erickson@peoplenewspapers.com

D

allas found its way to the top 20 of an index designed to track STEM job growth — and experts say that will be very good for the local economy.

Our research has also indicated that STEM jobs tend to be more resistant to economic shocks.

Karl Pischke RCLCO, a real estate consulting firm, produced its yearly look at job growth in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields across the country, finding Dallas perched at No. 11.

In education, sometimes art is added in to make it STEAM, because of the creativity involved in design elements.

“The average STEM job in the United States has a wage of nearly $90,000, and that’s compared to an average wage of $40,000 for other industries,” said RCLCO vice president Karl Pischke. “Our research has also indicated that STEM jobs tend to be more resistant to economic shocks.”

Between 2005 and 2015, STEM employment grew by nearly 25% — more than five times the growth of non-STEM jobs.

Pischke pointed to U.S. Department of Labor statistics that project at least a million new STEM jobs in the

2020s — an 11% growth compared to 8% for non-STEM jobs.

And while part of the stability is its variability — there are a lot of occupations and career paths that fall under the STEM umbrella — RCLCO’s analysis found that about half of all such jobs are computer-related, with the fastest-growing in the past five years coming in the computer user support, industrial engineering, information security, and civil engineering fields.

“Over the coming decade, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the strongest growth to concentrate in computers and mathematics, architecture and engineering, and life, physical & social science,” the firm’s report said. “However, it is important to note that these projections have also been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with life, physical, and social science jobs seeing a more significant bump in projected future job growth. This category includes jobs like medical scientists and epidemiologists, two professions that have received wellearned attention in light of their impacts during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Area schools are preparing students for STEM-ready career paths, including Dallas ISD. The district expanded its array of STEM learning opportunities to include their youngest scholars (a new biomedical elementary collaboration with UT Southwestern Medical School) and its oldest students, thanks to collegiate academies, specialized magnet schools, and its latest effort — career institutes that create opportunities for students to earn certifications for a variety of jobs.

The three locations offer training in STEM-related fields like aviation flight mechatronics, cybersecurity, electrical and solar technology, and health science occupations like patient care

STEM VIRTUAL EXPO

What: Dallas ISD boasts the largest STEM EXPO in Texas where students explore, design, and create real-world science, technology, engineering, and mathematics activities.

When: Jan. 22, 2022

Registration: Visit dallasisd.org/ stemday Details: The event draws more than 130 hands-on exhibits and serves as the culmination event for these District Championships – Science & Engineering Fair, VEX, and First Robotics Competitions, Mathematics Video Game Challenge, Mathematics Bridge Building Competition, Health and Wellness Awareness, and the Tech Fest Digital Media Fair Competition. technician and pharmaceutical technician certifications.

In 2020, Dallas ISD Superintendent Michael Hinojosa told reporters that the increased focus on growth fields would benefit the city.

“I keep telling Mayor Johnson, to grow southern Dallas — when these kids get out, make a good living, and they can buy a house in Pleasant Grove, South Dallas, Oak Cliff, now they have disposable income, and they’re going to demand a Starbucks, they’re going to demand a grocery store,” he said. “That’s how you build southern Dallas, and we’re going to get there.”

Dallas ISD positioned itself to contribute to the STEM/STEAM job market through a variety of programs, including an array of Career Institutes that aim to graduate work-ready scholars. (PHOTO: COURTESY DALLAS ISD)

I was only in sixth grade when I discovered my fascination with space.

I began to look at photos of planets, stars, and galaxies with a new perspective of wonder and admiration. Space exploration fascinated me, and how impossibly small the world is in the infinite plane of the cosmos utterly astonished me.

I knew that I was passionate about S Y D N E Y S L AY space, but what did that mean for me?

At the time, when I thought of an engineer, what immediately came to mind was a brainy man building machines in a factory.

An aerospace engineer sounded equally intimidating. So, as I prepared for my first year at Space Camp after my seventh-grade year, I was terrified not only that I would be one of the only girls there but that everyone would know way more about space than I did.

Upon arrival at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, I pleasantly realized that the camp consisted of almost an equal number of boys and girls, which settled my initial nerves a bit.

After spending a week with my fellow “Atlas” teammates, I discovered that all of us were at that camp not because we already knew a lot about space and space exploration, but to learn about our shared passion, encouraging and challenging each other along the way.

Space camp further increased my passion and educated me on the specific options available in a STEM field that I’m passionate about. This STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education has allowed me to pursue my passions in a way that seventh-grade me did not even realize existed.

Space Camp has allowed me to hear from astronauts about their journeys into the program and given me added confidence and teamwork to work with my school’s robotics teams.

Our education system must cultivate youth who are genuinely excited, interested, and passionate about the advancement of STEM by providing ample opportunities for STEM education because true devotion to the advancement of our life on Earth yields breakthroughs in our universe as we know it.

Space camp offered me an insight into furthering my passion in the future by providing me the opportunity to grow my love for STEM. I encourage young students interested in STEM to take the chance on the opportunities that arise because you never know what interest may develop into your true passion.

Sydney Slay, now a junior at the Hockaday School, began appearing in the paper in 2017 when she and her Hockadaisies teammates earned a trip to California by taking third place in the North Texas First Lego League tournament sponsored by the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. This is her debut as a writer for the paper.

peoplenewspapers.com | January 2022 B3

B4 January 2022 | STEAM

New Biomedical Elementary Principal Just What the Doctor Ordered

By Bethany Erickson

bethany.erickson@peoplenewspapers.com When looking for a principal for a new elementary school with a biomedical focus, you probably won’t get one more qualified than a family doctor who switched gears to become a public school educator.

Not long after Dallas ISD announced that it was collaborating with UT Southwestern Medical Center to create a pre-kindergarten through 8th-grade biomedical school in the city’s medical district, it named Robert Gonzalez as the principal.

The school will open in August 2022 as one of the first of its kind in the nation.

Before moving to Texas, Gonzalez was a family doctor in Colombia. After leaving due to increasing danger in his home country, he also pivoted to teaching through Dallas ISD’s alternative certification program.

From there, he made his way up the ranks, eventually becoming principal at Stevens Park Elementary. When the biomedical school opportunity came, he was immediately — and enthusiastically — interested.

“I hope you can hear it in my voice,” he said about how excited he is for a new job tailored to his specific skill set. “When this came to life, and I applied, I thought back to my 3-year-old child. I want him to be exposed to what I’m planning for

I believe this is the most important part — I have to teach them that mistakes help us learn. It’s a culture of failure to get to a discovery.

Mistakes are celebrations for us.

Robert Gonzalez

Robert Gonzalez was a family doctor in Colombia, and after a career change to teaching, will now helm Dallas ISD’s new biomedical elementary school collaboration with UT Southwestern. (PHOTOS: COURTESY DALLAS ISD; UNSPLASH) everybody else. My time and effort are out there because I love all the things that I am doing.”

His new school will initially work with children ages 3 and 4 through the first grade,

eventually expanding to eighth grade.

The curriculum will surround students with STEAM opportunities by introducing them to real-world experiences in biomedical science through their daily

lessons and innovative field trips.

But how do you approach a biomedical focus with children so young?

“The first thing we’re going to do is we’re going to teach them how to set goals,” Gonzalez said. “What is our goal?

How do we set a goal? How do we pursue the goal?

“Then we’ll start asking questions.

Scientists, they ask questions all the time,” he said, adding that questionasking is something that is solidly in a preschooler’s wheelhouse. “I have a 3-year-old in my house, and they’re always asking questions. I’m training parents so they can listen to those questions and ask something else for them to find out the answer. Don’t just give the answer, but make sure they explore what the kid is thinking.”

After goal setting and question asking, Gonzalez said there is a third valuable mindset that he hopes to impart to his young scholars.

“I believe this is the most important part — I have to teach them that mistakes help us learn,” he said. “It’s a culture of failure to get to a discovery. Mistakes are celebrations for us.”

H O W T O A P P LY The application window for Dallas ISD Choice, Transformation, and Magnet schools runs through Jan. 31, 2022. Visit dallasisd.org/ choosedallasisd to apply.

Lessons From The Heart

Former student helps Hyer third graders learn about cardiac conditions, health

By Rachel Snyder

rachel.snyder@peoplenewspapers.com

Molly Nolan uses her life experiences to educate thirdgrade talented and gifted (TAG) students at her alma mater, Hyer Elementary, about heart health.

It’s great that they want to learn about abnormalities so they can learn about the heart.

Molly Nolan Nolan has tetralogy of Fallot, a condition caused by four heart defects present at birth that affect the heart’s structure and cause oxygen-poor blood to flow out to the rest of the body, according to the Mayo Clinic.

She speaks to students in Hyer’s third grade TAG Explorations class about her condition, other heart abnormalities, and doctors’ procedures to treat them.

Her visits to Hyer started

about 12 years ago when a friend who had a child in the class asked if she wanted to speak to the students as part of their lessons about heart health. Those lessons include dissecting a pig heart.

Nolan has spoken at Hyer each year since, except for 2020, because of the pandemic.

“It’s great that they want to learn about abnormalities so they can learn about the heart,” Nolan said.

As part of her presentation, Nolan discusses how a normal heart compares to that of someone with tetralogy of Fallot and shows videos that demonstrate how procedures like valve replacement and devices like pacemakers and defibrillators work.

“When you have Tetralogy of Fallot, your heart looks really different from the normal heart,” student Emma Elverum said.

“The pictures were really cool and explained the differences.”

Nolan’s doctor has provided such learning tools as several pacemakers to bring and teach the students about how they work to regulate heart rate and rhythm.

“It was cool how she passed

TOP, BACK ROW FROM LEFT: Alice Hodges, Anna Kate Schulte, Molly Nolan, Grant Kosel, Lane Crow, Nathan Marx, and Emma Elverum. FRONT ROW: Lala Fabris, Tori Castellanos, Caleb Yoon, Timmy Chong, and Abby Chong. RIGHT: Grant Kisol dissected a pig’s heart as part of lessons about heart health. (PHOTOS: COURTESY HPISD)

around the pacemakers, and we got to touch them,” student Timmy Chong added.

Nolan, though, most enjoys seeing what the students learn.

“The most special part of the whole thing is seeing what they take away from it,” she said of the students. “I like to broaden their learning and broaden their knowledge.”

She said one of the things she asks the students is, “how would you treat your friend if they couldn’t walk a mile with you?”

“I think kids are more aware of differences,” Nolan added.

“They’re so smart. I ask a lot of questions of them.”

Teacher Carrie Boydston said, “The students and I love when Molly comes to our classroom.

“She provides an authentic learning experience for the students by putting the human touch on our study of the heart,” Boydston said. “Her energy and sense of humor are unmatched, and I’m so thankful for her willingness to share her story with us.”

peoplenewspapers.com | January 2022 B5

B6 January 2022 | STEAM

TEXAS NEEDS A LONE STAR SPACE PLAN TO KEEP ITS ADVANTAGE Just outside Van Horn, four private crewmembers – including actor William Shatner – lifted off in a rocket built by Blue Origin, Jeff Bezos’ space flight company.

That October 2021 trip came a month after SpaceX launched the first orbital flight with an all-civilian crew.

It is the dawn of a new M A R G A R E T space race – this time between SPELLINGS states over the fast-growing private-sector industry.

Texas should be well-positioned, but even though “Houston” is a NASA callsign, home to the Johnson Space Center, and synonymous with space travel, it’s far from certain that Texas will lead the pack.

From Colorado to Alabama to Florida, others are aggressively pursuing what Morgan Stanley estimates could be a $1 trillion industry by 2040.

To compete, Texas must organize for success.

Fortunately, we have a head start, even beyond SpaceX’s and Blue Origin’s highprofile launches from Texas.

Such aerospace companies as Lockheed Martin and Raytheon have a significant presence in North Texas.

Houston’s investments to turn Ellington Field into a spaceport attracted emerging leaders, Axiom Space and Intuitive Machines.

The University of Texas campuses in El Paso and Austin joined the Space Force University Partnership Program to prepare students for the industry’s future highwage jobs.

The benefits are real.

The SpaceX expansion in Brownsville has created good-paying jobs and community investment. Many of the company’s roughly 1,500 employees live there.

To create such dividends across the state, Texas needs to act decisively.

A Lone Star space plan should start with three key steps: First, Texas must align and coordinate state and

local governments, identifying ways to streamline regulation and processes.

Second, the state needs to look hard at how it can attract industry leaders. That doesn’t mean reckless corporate giveaways; it means being realistic about assessing the support other states offer and ensuring that Texas is keeping pace — at least to the point that our unique strengths, resources, and attributes provide a competitive advantage.

Finally, and most importantly, attracting and growing the space industry requires a solid education-to-workforce pipeline.

In the end, the states that lead in the space-age economy won’t be the ones with the most eye-popping incentive packages — they’ll be the ones that compete most strongly on the fundamentals of talent, resources, and can-do government capabilities.

If Texas charts the right course in this space race, the benefits will go far beyond the space industry. Indeed, an advanced and wellplanned workforce strategy will propel every part of our economy and fortify Texas’ strength and leadership for another century.

This one small step could create a Texassized leap forward.

Former U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings, of Highland Park, is president and CEO of Texas 2036.

Retired Col. Tim Kopra, vice president for robotics and space operations at MDA; Brownsville Mayor Trey Mendez; and Maynard Holt, CEO of Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Co., contributed to this op-ed, which has also run in the ‘Houston Chronicle.’

Captain Kirk may be from Iowa, according to Star Trek lore, but when it came time for the actor who made the character famous to go to space, he launched from Texas. FROM LEFT: Audrey Powers, William Shatner, Chris Boshuizen, Glen de Vries, and Sarah Knights. (PHOTOS: COURTESY BLUE ORIGIN)

peoplenewspapers.com | January 2022 B7

From Girl Scout to Bat Woman Kristen Lear credits role models

By Sophia Wilson People Newspapers

Over 2 million people viewed bright orange, life-like statues spread across the courtyard and corridors at NorthPark Center before the exhibit moved on in late fall.

And some saw themselves.

“It’s very surreal to see the statues in real life and be able to look yourself in the face,” bat conservationist Kristen Lear said.

Lear, one of the 125 American Association for The Advancement of Science (AAAS) IF/THEN® Ambassadors chosen to encourage girls to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics careers, described posing for her statue.

“We literally stood in this big kind of tent, and there were cameras from every angle,” she said. “They take pictures from all those angles, put them together in a 3D file, then print it on a 3D printer.”

The Lyda Hill Philanthropies’ #IfThenSheCan – The Exhibit showcases innovative women outfitted in gear typical of their jobs, ranging from a gaming company CEO to a fashion designer. Missed it at NorthPark? Check it out virtually at ifthenexhibit.org.

Lear, now of Fort Collins, Colorado, is excited to serve as a role model to young girls.

“I realized how important having those role models visible to you is,” she said.

Her journey into wildlife conservation was influenced by powerful female figures who contributed to Lear’s passion for saving bats and studying science. Those included her mom, who served as her Girl Scouts troop leader.

In the sixth grade, Lear built bat houses for her Girl Scout Silver award project and learned about the dangers many species face.

She went on to study bats at Ohio Wesleyan University, where she received a bachelor’s degree in zoology.

Afterward, on a full scholarship, she moved to South Australia for a year to study the Southern Bent Wing Bat, a critically endangered species.

In San Saba, Texas, Lear worked as a field research assistant in pecan orchards, observing bats, figuring out what they eat, and identifying whether they reduced the population of moth pests that destroyed the crops.

She finished her doctorate at the University of Georgia in 2020.

Wherever she goes, she promotes bat conservation.

“I love to do education outreach,” said Lear, who also participates in virtual engagements through Zoom to connect to those in countries all over the world.

The National Geographic Explorer Classroom and Skype Scientists offered students sessions with her.

Lear also enjoys spreading awareness through her style of clothing. She feels it is an easy prompt to “get people talking” in an engaging and fun way.

Lear wears unique items such as a shirt printed with a detailed photo she took of a bat and large necklaces that display the animal. Check out her fashions at redbubble.com/people/ batsforlife/shop.

“Having the beginning opportunity when I was just 12 and having that spark (for bat conservation projects) was what propelled me on into this career,” she said. “And so, I want to do that for younger girls and be that younger spark for them.”

Kristen Lear reassumes the pose she used Sophia Wilson is a senior at Highland when cameras captured images of her for a Park High School who likes to write and 3D-printed statue. (PHOTO: SOPHIA WILSON) dance.

The Perot Museum of Nature and Science has a knack for making learning fun. A new exhibit features models of famous skyscrapers made from Legos. (PHOTO: COURTESY PEROT MUSEUM)

Perot Exhibit Shows Legos Aren’t Just For Playing Opening a new box of Legos is obviously fun, but every time you build something new, you’re also using science, engineering, and math.

Yeah, those bricks are not just for play.

You need math to know how many bricks you need and what sizes for each JOHN ERICKSON thing you build. You need engineering know-how so your project doesn’t fall apart. You need science to know how to plan for speed or gravity even.

So, when the Perot Museum of Nature and Science debuted Towers of Tomorrow with LEGO Bricks, the natural combination of a science museum and a toy became clear.

The exhibit features 20 iconic skyscrapers from all over the world. It took more than 2,000 hours and half a million bricks. They were built by Ryan McNaught, who has a cool job — he’s a LEGO certified professional builder.

There are only 21 in the world.

“In our commitment to inspire minds through nature and science, the Perot Museum strives to bring in engaging exhibitions that spark those ‘ah-ha’ moments,” said Linda Silver, the Eugene McDermott Chief Executive Officer of the museum. “Towers of Tomorrow with LEGO® Bricks is a hands-on experience for all ages and a fun way to cultivate that crucial interest in STEM.” I had a chance to go to the exhibit and was amazed at the buildings. It can take me a day (and the help of my dad) to get one LEGO project done, so the fact that

they built more than 20 huge skyscrapers is impressive.

I did the math — it took the equivalent of more than two-and-a-half months to build everything.

I liked the CN Tower the best, but there are so many great projects in the room, including the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building.

And, after you’re done admiring the skyscrapers, you can sit down at any of the four stations stocked with tons of LEGO bricks so you can build your creation. In total, the Perot said there are more than 200,000 bricks in the stations for visitors to play with. If they are proud enough of their creation, they can add it to display tables around the exhibit.

“Highland Capital Philanthropies believes children learn best when they are having fun, which is why we are proud to support the Perot Museum’s effort to ignite STEM learning in our youth through this new exhibition, which showcases iconic skyscrapers from around the world – all constructed with LEGO® bricks,” said Highland Capital Philanthropies’ (who helped bring the exhibit to Dallas) Lucy Bannon. “We’re especially excited about the hands-on experiences offered as part of the exhibition, which give guests the opportunity to construct their own buildings and in turn gain a deeper understanding of the ingenuity of these engineering feats.”

Overall, it was a fun exhibit, and you should go see it for yourself.

John Erickson, the son of deputy editor Bethany Erickson, is a fifth-grader at Chapel Hill Preparatory in Dallas.

B8 January 2022 | STEAM

BACK ROW, FROM LEFT: David Monroe, Adan Sais, Tyler Shaw, Wyatt Curtis, Sage Warner, Noah Liu, Andrew West, Thomas West, and Eddie Franco. FRONT: Kaden Handoko, Andrew Beumer, Lauren Couturier, Caden Jobe, Andrew Wetzel, Jackson Rhodes, and Brady Grantham. (PHOTO: COURTESY OF TRINITY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY)

If You Build It, They Will Learn

TCA middle school building construction offers on-site engineering lessons

By William Taylor

william.taylor@peoplenewspapaers.com

Trinity Christian Academy expects to open its new middle school building in August 2022, but students aren’t having to wait anywhere near that long to receive instruction in the space.

The construction site has become a learning lab of sorts for seventh-and eighth-grade high-tech robotics classes and upper school students taking honors engineering design.

Representatives of contractor Balfour Beatty have used site tours to introduce students to construction science and management.

Balfour’s “student mentoring program allows students to acquire a general understanding of the construction process through each phase of construction,” senior project manager David Monroe said.

The initial session in the fall explored site prep, designs of the fortified library that will serve as a storm shelter, and foundation construction.

“This program is for students interested in pursuing a career in architecture, construction, and engineering industries where they can receive interaction with industry experts and exposure to a variety of career paths,” Monroe said.

I think one of the biggest takeaways for the students is how important the research and planning steps are in the design process.

Felicia Townley Camille Barton, a TCA mom, engineer, and CEO of Purdy-McGuire Inc., has lent her expertise, too.

During a class visit, she walked students through mechanical, electrical, and plumbing designs for the building.

Honors engineering teacher Lisa

Wong’s upper school students have learned about design, manufacturing, and supply chain.

“Taking this tour allowed the students to see first-hand construction in action,” Wong said. “They saw how many different types of engineers – such as mechanical, electrical, plumbing, architectural, etc. –are needed for production of this magnitude.”

Constructing a building may not be the same as building a robot, but design lessons f rom the tours weren’t lost on middle school students, technology/robotics teacher Felicia Townley said.

“Being able to hear and see the design process unfold from the months of detailed research and planning, the communication and collaboration involved, to seeing the ideas and sketches being built have given the students a better understanding of what we are doing in my class when we are working through the design process,” Townley said. “I think one of the biggest takeaways for the students is how important the research and planning steps are in the design process.”

COMING SOON What: A three-story, 44,600-squarefoot new Middle School building.

When: Opening in August 2022 Where: Next to Tom Landry Stadium on the Trinity Christian Academy campus Features: Seventh- and eighth-grade classrooms for history/English, math, Bible, Latin, and science; A technology and robotics lab as well as a learning lab and literacy center for grades five through eight; A library, common area, and collaborative workspaces for students; An office suite including conference rooms and lounge for faculty and staff.

You are invited to virtually dissect the human body, build a prototype with a 3D printer, take immersive classes in the arts and the sciences, and learn from teachers dedicated to your success.

You are invited to discover your future.

Explore Ursuline by visiting www.ursulinedallas.org/admissions.

Won’t you join us?

URSULINE ACADEMY OF DALLAS

Ursuline Academy creates experiences unlike any other.

All-Girl, Catholic, College Prep, Grades 9-12 4900 Walnut Hill Lane | Dallas, Texas 75229 469-232-1800 | www.ursulinedallas.org Ursuline Academy admits qualified students without regard to race, color, or national or ethnic origin.

A P P L I C AT I O N D E A D L I N E J A N U A R Y 7

peoplenewspapers.com | January 2022 B9

CSI: Ursuline Academy

Students become detectives in Kirsten Lindsay-Hudak’s forensics class Emilea McCutchan People Newspapers

Ursuline Academy is turning students into detectives.

The yearlong forensics class, reserved for seniors, combines physics, chemistry, and biology in a simulated work experience where students learn skills and techniques used in modern forensic labs.

“I really enjoy being able to provide the students an experience in science where they can see what they’re learning in school is applied in the real world,” forensics teacher Kirsten Lindsay-Hudak said.

Students apply to work for the Ursuline Academy Criminal Investigation Division and investigate, analyze evidence, and review cases during a training academy that runs through Thanksgiving.

After passing a certification exam, students receive a special investigator badge, get assigned a partner, and work assigned cases.

“Each detective pair gets a unique case

that includes a police report, witness statements, and [an] evidence packet [with] actual physical evidence,” Lindsay-Hudak said. “[Students] will interview all of the people involved in the case, and they will develop the narrative for how the crime occurred.”

Students submit their analysis as a court summary, or testimony, for when they take the stand as an expert witness in a mock trial case, which takes the place of their final assessment.

Sometimes, Lindsay-Hudak said, students solve crimes among Ursuline faculty members.

“A faculty staff case [is] where we have little, minor crimes faculty pretend to have committed, and [students] will figure out which faculty member [is] guilty,” she said.

“They interview them [and] they collect fingerprints. Then, they have to match it, and whoever they think is guilty, they get to deliver an arrest warrant to.”

Students also participate in labs, take notes, complete homework, and attend

“conferences and workshops” such as a recent one Lindsay-Hudak led on interviewing techniques.

I really enjoy being able to provide the students an experience in science where they can see what they’re learning in school is applied in the real world.

Kirsten LindsayHudak “It’s a technology-enhanced, active learning environment,” she said. “Everything we do is basically digital. [Students

are] using their phones to photograph evidence, we have digital microscopes, and we can use different programs to analyze things.”

Piper Rutherford hopes to become a prosecutor.

“I just wanted to learn more about the inner workings of investigating and analyzing evidence and a crime scene,” she said.

“Also, just growing up, I’ve always loved watching shows like 20/20, Dateline NBC, and even some of the cliches like Dexter.”

Rutherford said her favorite parts included a blood module, where students did blood typing, and examining fibers such as hair under a microscope to determine from which species it came.

Rutherford recommends the class for those who enjoy freedom and an element of accountability. “I think that if you’re someone who wants a hands-on experience that includes everything you’ve learned in science [throughout] high school, such as physics, biology, and chemistry, it’s all applied in forensics.”

Kirsten Lindsay-Hudak teaches Ursuline Academy seniors to apply science to investigating cases in her forensics class. FROM LEFT: Charity Foreman, Anastacia Chu, Emma Luo, Jana Elawar, Theresa Tran, and Shelby Lovejoy with teacher Kirsten Lindsay-Hudak. RIGHT: Sydney Hatton. (PHOTOS: COURTESY URSULINE ACADEMY)

SHELTON PRIDE STEM + Full STEAM Ahead Fostering exploration, innovation, creation, collaboration Something for everyone:

ENGAGE ENRICH EMPOWER

• Robotics Team, Grade 6-8

• Engineering classes/club

• Coding, Grade 1 and above

• Problem-solving experiences

• Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality • Gaming and 3D animation • Robust summer and after-school offerings • Maker space, 3D design, modeling • Expansive fine arts offerings and printing • HTML and web design

• 12 science labs, 4 STEAM rooms

• High school film program

• Genius Bar-style IT center

Shelton School and Evaluation Center 17301 Preston Road, Dallas, TX 75252 SHELTON.ORG

SINCE 1976

B10 January 2022 | STEAM

Full STEAM Ahead For Robotics

HPISD middle, intermediate school students learn engineering, coding skills

By Rachel Snyder

rachel.snyder@peoplenewspapers.com

The rollout of robotics programming for McCulloch Intermediate and Highland Park Middle schools began full STEAM ahead this fall, and district officials say they plan to continue to expand opportunities for students.

Highland Park High School already had a robotics program in place when HPISD officials announced in the spring of 2021 plans to offer younger grade levels comprehensive robotics with classroom and extracurricular activities in engineering and coding.

A ​​$10,000 gift from the Park Cities Talented and Gifted (PCTAG) parent organization helped support the efforts to launch the program in the fall.

Most re cent l y, H PMS launched a robotics club for seventh and eighth-graders, and Jean Streepey, STEAM instructional coach for MIS and HPMS said the district plans to offer a robotics club for fifth and sixth graders soon.

As part of the club, students learn about coding, robot building, and design.

“The after-school program

does really well,” HPMS principal Dr. Chris Miller said. “What’s really neat is seeing our high school kids come over here – our seventh and eighth graders really do look up to them – and being able to see their excitement that we’re doing this at such an early age.”

They come in as 10-year-olds, and they leave us ready for high school, and I think these are the years where we create dreams.

Jean Streepey Eighth-grader Luke Bodwell said he’s excited to learn more about the coding aspect of robotics.

“After we come back from Thanksgiving break, we’ll really dive more into the coding aspect of these robots because we spent the past couple of weeks working on building them,” Bodwell said.

Highland Park ISD is expanding opportunities to learn about coding, robot building, and design. FROM LEFT: Graham Gilbert, Clay Ewing, Benton Arthur, Brown Kennedy, and Derek Ward. (PHOTO: COURTESY HPISD) Miller said he hopes the program shows MIS and HPMS students the options available for them in high school and beyond.

“It’s really a 5-12 program is what it’s turned into, and that’s what’s really exciting. It gets the kids connected to what could be

robotics 1 and 2 in high school,” he said.

Eighth-grader Dev Shah said his sister is part of the high school robotics team.

“I know my sister does robotics in high school, so I wanted a middle school one,” Shah said. “I think we plan on doing

some competitions between us, and maybe if we get ... advanced enough and we get enough people, then we could possibly do it with other schools.”

Streepey said the expansion of robotics programming in the district is part of efforts to bring “STEAM for all students.”

“We want everyone to have this experience, so if they like it, they have a path f or ward, ” she said. “I think the other thing that makes us different is that we have fifth through eighth graders all in one building. That’s a huge difference for us. They come in as 10-year-olds, and they leave us ready for high school, and I think these are the years where we create dreams.”

RAIDER ROBOTICS Visit sites.google.com/ hpisd.org/raider-robotics/ home to learn more about the Raider Robotics Club.

A commitment to excellence.

STEM + Innovation Center coming soon to Greenhill School.

Learn more at greenhill.org/growingstronger.

peoplenewspapers.com | January 2022 B11

Artificial Intelligence Not Just For Computer Mavericks

Mark Cuban Foundation ‘Bootcamps’ introduce teens to basics, possibilities

By Amber Billops People Newspapers

Mark Cuban’s foundation is introducing underserved teens across North Texas and elsewhere to basic artificial intelligence concepts and skills.

“Tech is a bigger industry every day, and the younger you start, the quicker you start learning,” said instructor Ignacio Procel. “To get an entry-level job, it’s highly competitive, so any bit of experience you get early helps out.”

Procel is six months into his software development career with Headstorm, one of the 16 companies selected to host the free Mark Cuban Foundation Artificial Intelligence (AI) Bootcamps in 2021.

Cuban, the Preston Hollow resident and Dallas Mavericks owner who first made his fortune in the tech industry, explains the significance of AI on the website markcubanai.org.

“I saw the impact of PCs. Then I saw the impact of local area networks. Then I saw the impact of wide area networks. Then I saw the impact of the internet. Then I saw the impact of mobile. Then I saw the impact of wireless. Now I’m seeing the impact of artificial

Headsorm employee and mentor Faisal Alnahhas helps Hillcrest student Everrett Early during an artificial intelligence camp. (PHOTO: CHRIS MCGATHEY) intelligence. And it dwarfs any of those things,” Cuban said.

His foundation provides curriculum materials, trains volunteers, recruits students in grades nine to 12, and coordinates the boot camps.

It also works with host companies to provide food (from restaurants like Chick-Fil-A, Velvet Taco, etc.), transportation, and access to laptops and hotspots at no cost to campers.

Headstorm in Addison held

sessions over four consecutive Saturdays in October and November of 2021.

Students didn’t need prior experience with computer science or programming to attend. During the camp, they gained hands-on experience building AI apps and learned how AI transforms society and powers many of the apps used daily.

Devin Wright, a senior at DeSoto High School, who hopes to study software development at

SMU or another university, described the boot camps as an amazing experience.

“It has been an eye-opener because all of the things we are learning about AI, I had no idea of,” he said. “This is really going to help me get closer to my goal, which is being a game developer.”

Tani Nelson, a freshman at David W. Carter High School who hopes to attend an HBCU (historically black colleges and

universities), sees applications for possible careers paths such as law or real estate.

“I feel like AI has a lot to do with working cases when it comes to criminal justice or helping me land deals when it comes to real estate,” Nelson said. “It will help make my job easier.”

Instructors at Headstorm were pleased to see students getting exposed to technology that could shape their career choices.

“It’s not often in high school you get an opportunity to learn from industry professionals,” instructor Dan Peng said. “These kids are just starting to get into college, so they are all thinking about what major they are going to choose.”

T H E F O U N D AT I O N Founded by Mark Cuban in 2019, the AI Bootcamp initiative has hosted free camps for students in Dallas, El Paso, Chicago, Omaha, Detroit, and Green Bay. The Mark Cuban Foundation’s goal is to have 1,000 students graduate from the camps each year by 2023.

Visit markcubanai.org.

your creativity G S E S D A L L A S . O R G • (214) 357-1610

PCP_January2022-Draft2.pdf 1 11/30/2021 2:03:46 AM

B12 January 2022 | STEAM

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

PARK C I TI ES/ DA LLA S

|

MCCLURE-LA WGRO UP .COM

|

214.692.8200