December 26, 2006

Recycle Christmas Trees

Dallas Sanitation Services encourages residents to recycle Christmas trees into free mulch

Dallas - Sanitation Services to recycle live, green or flocked Christmas trees into free mulch for Dallas residents.

Residents are encouraged to bring Christmas trees to any of five locations, from December 26 through January 11, to recycle the trees into mulch. Trees will be accepted from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Residents should remove all ornaments, tinsel, lights, nails, and the stand from their trees.

Locations for tree disposal Monday through Sunday are Flagpole Hill at Buckner Boulevard and Northwest Highway, Northwest (Bachman) Transfer Station at 9500 Harry Hines Blvd., Southwest (Oak Cliff) Transfer Station at 4610 S. Westmoreland Road, and the Fair Oaks Transfer Station at 7677 Fair Oaks Ave.

Trees can also be dropped off for recycling Monday through Saturday at the McCommas Bluff Landfill at 5100 Youngblood Road.

Free mulch is available to Dallas residents at the Bachman Transfer Station and McCommas Bluff Landfill after January 1, 2006. A driver’s license or recent water bill must be presented to prove residency. Residents should bring their own shovels and containers as they will be required to package and load mulch themselves.
Mulch is not only a valuable nutrient for landscaping, but a thick layer in flowerbeds and around trees provides an excellent insulation for plant roots during cold weather.

December 23, 2006

LHAIA Supports Parks Department

Dear Lake Highlands residents-----we hope that you are all enjoying this holiday season with family and friends and that you are looking forward to a happy and prosperous New Year. You have probably heard that the National Guard Armory property will be vacated and that bids have been accepted from prospective users of the facility. Several bids have been received from organizations proposing to use the property in ways related to assisting the homeless. Bids has also been received from the Dallas Parks Department (the original owner of the land) and from the Sheriff's Department. The LHAIA Board feels that the highest and best use of this facility is the use proposed by the Parks Department. This proposal also includes badly needed community meeting space. We feel that this use also comports best with other land use in the area and with the overwhelming desires of the surrounding community and the entire Lake Highlands area. While we agree that the needs of homeless need to be addressed, neither the City of Dallas nor our understaffed Dallas Police Department have shown themselves capable of dealing with the problems endemic in low income housing. We would also expect that a use related to addressing homeless issues would involve exempting the property from ad valorem taxes. We already have a sizable number of exempt properties in Lake Highlands---and experience has shown that exempt properties often demand as much or more services as property that is taxable. We encourage you to get involved and make your feelings Known to City Councilmen Blaydes and Griffith. The LHAIA is developing other mechanisms to attempt to assure the success of the Parks Department proposal, including a petition drive. We look forward to your help and support.

Regards,

The LHAIA Board and Committee Chairs

Steve Wakefield swakefield@brlaw.com

Samuel Stiles Samuel_F_Stiles@notes.ntrs.com

Ray Hill frayh@lifeben.com

Ken Mooter kenmooter@swbell.com

Robin Moss Norcross robinn@ebby.com

Scott Wynne scott.wynne@clarion.com

Jack White jackwhite@ebby.com

Susan Morgan heysmorgan@aol.com

Larry Jones larry@tjtaxlaw.com

Lesa Bishop lesa.bishop@ge.com

December 13, 2006

DECEMBER-JANUARY ACTIVITIES AUDELIA ROAD BRANCH

Dallas Public Library
10045 Audelia Road (corner of Audelia & Church)
Dallas, TX 75238
214-670-1350 http://dallaslibrary.org

ADULT PROGRAMS
· Mark your calendar: Audelia Road Blood Drive: January 16th from noon to 7:00 p.m.!
· On Saturday, February 3rd at 1:00 p.m., the library will host a program designed to welcome new users to the library. We will begin with a film called "More than just Books" which presents a general overview of library services. We will discuss what we offer at the Audelia Road Branch and the Dallas Public Library and then follow up with a short session on using the catalog and database computers. This is a program for all ages but we particularly welcome ESL, Adult Learners and new immigrants as well as anyone who wants to learn more about using the library's tools.
· Recognize Black History month with the film “We Shall Overcome” on February 12th at 3:30 p.m.

Computer Classes
· Learn about computer and Internet basics. Classes for adults are held first Saturday of each month and spaces are limited. Please call 214-670-1350 or stop by the information desk to reserve your spot.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group
· First Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. with “office hours” afterward with Program Coordinator Belinda Glenn and the Dallas County KinCare Network. These meetings supplement the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Resource Collection at the Audelia Road Branch, Dallas Public Library.

Audelia Road Book Club
· We’re back to our regular schedule of the last Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m.*. This is a discussion group not a book review and we always welcome new members. Please RSVP to 214-670-1350 or denise.lyons@dallaslibrary.org. Our next selections:
· November 30 rescheduled for Thurs Dec 7th at 6:30 “Rise and Shine” by Anna Quindlen
· December 19th (NOTE DATE CHANGE): “The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini
· January 25th: “Abundance: A Novel of Marie Antoinette” by Sena Jeter Naslund
· February 22nd: “The Thirteenth Tale” by Diane Setterfield
*Except December where we will meet earlier on a Tuesday due to holidays

Youth and Young Adults
Attention Young Adults! Take our teen survey! Pick up one at the library or email: audeliaroadya@gmail.com to have one emailed to you. Don’t forget to check out the Audelia Road Young Adult Blog: http://audeliaroadya.blogspot.com.
Craft program on Tuesday, December 12th at 4:00 p.m. Make something cool for the Yule!
If you missed your chance to sign up for the Teen Volunteer Program, be sure to stop into the library to pick up your application during our regular business hours. Whether you have NHS hours to fulfill or you just want to help out, we look forward to having you join our volunteer team. We have great, fun projects just for teens!

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS
Story Time: Stories and activities for children of all ages and their caregivers will be held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.
Puppet Show: Santa’s Missing Mittens on December 20th at 4pm
Holiday Party for Children at the regular Wednesday story time on Weds Dec 27th (10:30am)
Beginning January, every second Thursday at 3:30 p.m., Janice Fowler hosts a program for elementary school aged children, sponsored by Lowe’s, featuring hands-on activities that are earth friendly. Past projects include making a container garden, plant people and recycling project. It’s fun for the whole family!
Computer class for kids on DPL’s homework help site: January 22nd at 4pm
· LIBRARY LIVE will take place at Audelia Road on the first Saturday of the month at 11:00 a.m. Chase presents LIBRARY LIVE! Big Thought’s FREE monthly program that offers interactive, culturally diverse performances and workshops for students and families. The program brings literary traditions to life through dance, visual art and music.

December 8, 2006

Crime Watch 1088 - West of L Streets

LRE FAN CLUBLake Highlands Crime Watch 1088

SPECIAL Update, 8 December 2006

Covering the Highland Hills and Lake Ridge Estates Neighborhoods Bounded by McCree, Ferndale, Shoreview, and AudeliaAnnouncement and Voice Mail (214) 967-5072

MEETING SCHEDULED FOR THURSDAY, DEC. 14th
Please make plans to attend a special Crime Watch meeting next week at the Dallas Police Substation on Northwest Highway.

Sr. Cpl. Ron Carpenter will be addressing our group with updates on the two attempted armed robberies, as well as other items of importance related to neighborhood safety and the holiday season.

Thursday, Dec. 14th
Dallas Police NE Substation
9915 E. Northwest Highway
7:00 p.m.

Enter the building through the front door by the flagpoles, as no other entrances are open to the public.

Please share this information with your neighbors. We have quite a few residents who do not have Internet access.

Thank you & be safe,
LRE FAN Club/CW 1088
www.lrefanclub.com

December 4, 2006

Homeless Shelter Details from Crime Watch 1077

We have neighbors that are AWESOME and scary on the computer and this is the report they filed after researching recent reports. Thanks to all of you!


The Jules E. Murchert United States Army Reserve Center,10031 East Northwest Highway, is part of the base sell-off plan that began during the Clinton Administration.

Spoke with the city of dallas development department this morning:

They are acting as agents for the army. By law the army has to invite proposals from various groups. The city on their behalf screens those proposals. The deadline to submit proposals has passed. The applicants are:
3 homeless assistance/low incoming housing charities
The city of dallas parks department
Dallas County Sherrifs office for a training facility
The city of dallas enviromental department for offices

The city will make a recommendation to the army. The army has the option to reject the recommendation, but that rarely happens. Further, in all these military property closings accross the country very few of them have been transfered to charities. Usually, the city agent snaps them up for their own use. It would not be fiscally responsible for the city not to do that as the property is FREE to them.

Almost nothing will happen until the first of 2007. The city has 270 days from September 29 to make a recommendation to the army. The development office is very careful about what they say as there are rules about this process. Will call again in January to get an updated status.

What can we do to effect the outcome? In 2007, depending on how the process is going we might want to have an email campaign on behalf of the parks department. I think they have the inside track of the non charity related. Mainly, because its so painfully obvious they need the facility. They are bursting out of that little building on Northwest Highway at Flag Pole Hill. The Reserve Center sits at the center of White Rock Lake, Flag Pole Hill, and the baseball diamonds. It is already set up for their uses and there will never be an opportunity like this for them again. They are lobbying hard for this and have prepared an excellent presentation proposal.

On another note; the army will probably not actually leave the armory facility until 2009. Then the proposal winner will take possesion.

Neighborhood Watch #1077 strongly supports the selection of the City Of Dallas Parks Dept. for this site. The Parks Department does excellent work and positively affects EVERY citizen of Dallas. Further, we believe that it would be a dereliction of their financial duty for the city not to appropriate this property for such an excellent use since its FREE.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to express your opinions on the site being selected as a possible homeless shelter.
Neighborhood Watch 1077
We are 570 homes North of McCree Rd., South of Walnut Hill Lane, East of Ferndale Rd., and West of Plano Rd.

November 27, 2006

Homeless Shelter Location in Lake Highlands

District 10 Constituents:

It has been reported that a homeless shelter is eminent for the Lake Highlands area and that the Armory on Northwest Highway was the location I had chosen for this project.
In an effort to set the record straight let me explain my comments to the Neighborhood Watch 1077 homeowners group last week.

In an effort to inform the area of possible events I informed the group that all Councilpersons have been asked to consider possible site(s) for a Single Room Occupancy (SRO) facility. I was contacted by Dallas Christian Ministries (DCM) several weeks ago about the Armory site on Northwest Highway. They had seen a notice that the Federal government was going to sell the site since the Armory’s lease expired this year and they were not renewing. They, D.C.M. were making an offer on the property subject to receiving State funding for a non-profit shelter facility on the Northwest Highway site.

I responded that it would be a very difficulty zoning issue but would wait to see any plan they had to offer.

I told the Neighborhood Watch #1077 group that if we had to have a shelter in the District that a site on Northwest Highway, next to the Police Station, separated from single family by an electrical substation and a 100 foot wide power easement and just half a block from the federal low income housing for seniors seemed to make some sense.

In order for any of this to occur:
1. Site must be accepted by the State for a project of this nature;
2. D.C.M. must be approved by State funding for the project;
3. Zoning must be obtained requiring at a minimum two (2) public hearings. Not to mention the neighborhood hearings I would require.
4. D.C.M. must be a successful bidder for Federal owned property

We are a long way from seeing anything like this in our area!

I have not approved anything. Nor was it my intention to advocate for the project. The intent was to inform on the possibilities. That is my job as I understand the job. My feelings regarding the project are not important as I represent the majority and your ideas are what counts.

I hope this email answers your questions.

Councilmember Bill Blaydes

November 10, 2006

Dallas Foreclosures

WFAA reported today that Dallas county currently is third in the nation in foreclosures at the rate of one for every 261 homes.

This is the highest number of foreclosures in the area since the 80's recession.

Great time to make an investment if you are looking.

If you are in trouble, check out the tips below asap:

How to Avoid Foreclosure

November 3, 2006

Vote on Tuesday November 7th!

The Dallas Morning News has set up an excellent review of candidates and topics for the Nov. 7th election.


http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/longterm/stories/102506dnmetelectionwrap.7283b9f0.html

October 30, 2006

Drugs & Kids

Whether you have toddlers or seniors in high school, this presentation will benefit you now and in the future. Drugs are present in our society, but we can protect our kids from being involved with drugs. Hear and learn from Dallas Police Narcotics Officers as to what to look for in your kids to determine if they are exposed to drugs, and how to prevent your children from becoming involved with drugs. This informative presentation is a must for anyone who has children. Do not miss this important presentation. Here are the details:


Date: November 9, 2006
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Sam Tasby Middle School
7000 Fair Oaks Ave.
Dallas, Texas 75231


In addition, hear Chief Easterling from the Dallas Police Department Northeast Division with an update on what is happening in Northeast Dallas.

Co-sponsored by the
Northeast Division of the Dallas Police Department
and
Lake Highlands Area Improvement Association

October 19, 2006

Timely Tip for November Gardeners:

A Bounty of Winter Color from Calloway’s

Brighten up your fall and winter landscape with annual flowers. Go ahead and add those tired, bloomed out summer flowers to your compost piles and replace them with fresh, colorful plants.

Pansies are by far the most popular winter color. Big blooms, a wide selection of colors and good cold tolerance make them a favorite in the winter garden. Dianthus, Snapdragons, Cyclamen, Violas and the fragrant Alyssum are also good choices for cold tolerant annuals. Ornamental Cabbage and Kale provide striking foliage forms for the landscape as well as color. For best effect, limit your planting to two or three colors per bed.

The key to growing beautiful annual flowers is soil preparation. Select a well drained flowerbed and add lots of organic matter such as Calloway’s Organic Compost or Bedding Plant Mix. Add either Calloway’s Flower Food or Blood and Bone Meal to the soil at planting to provide the extra nutrients for growth and blooms. Mulch well to reduce moisture loss and to insulate the soil.

These same annuals can be used in patio containers. Fill your containers with fresh potting soil and plant food. Keep them watered as necessary. Pinching off faded blooms will encourage repeat blooming.

Now sit back and enjoy this instant transformation to your landscape!

October 16, 2006

LHAIA Newsletter Excerpt

Economic Development

City of Dallas 2006 Bond Proposal
In November the residents of Dallas will be asked to vote on the largest bond package proposed in the history of the city. The proposal has been broken into twelve propositions. Whether you intend to vote for one, two, all, or none, the LHAIA would like to make sure you are aware of two items that would have a positive impact on very important economic development programs for Lake Highlands.

Propositions 6 and 8 contain $8M of land acquisition along Skillman at Walnut Hill and Skillman north of LBJ. This provides a critical first-step needed to further transit-oriented development and neighborhood revitalization in these two locations. These projects are aligned with and directly support the long-range plans for District 10, Forward Dallas!, Dallas Parks and Recreation, and Dallas Public Library, TXDOT, and DART.

The details of the 2006 Bond Proposal can be obtained by clicking on the Proposed 2006 Capital Bond Program link on www.dallascityhall.com. If you view by CD (council district) you can page down to District 10 and see the items proposed for Lake Highlands under each proposition. CW is the district category for citywide elements that affect all districts. For instance, $38M in Proposition 5 is for a City Performance Hall in the Arts District that will be accessible to smaller arts groups citywide, including those in Lake Highlands.


Find out how you can help, contact:
Susan Morgan
LHAIA, Economic Development
heysmorgan@aol.com

Lake Highlands Area Improvement Association

General Membership Meeting

Monday, October 16, 2006

7:00 pm

Lake Highlands Freshman Center Auditorium

Join us and special guest speaker

Alan Walne, “TIF/RISD Agreement Update”

Officer Elections

Committee Reports


Special Note: Please encourage all LHAIA, HOA Member representatives to attend this meeting to vote on new officers.

OCTOBER-NOVEMBER ACTIVITIES AUDELIA ROAD BRANCH

ADULT PROGRAMS/TEEN/SENIOR PROGRAMS
The week of October 15th is Teen Reads Week. Audelia Road will have special activities for pre-teens and teens so check back for more information!

Be sure to mark your calendar for a Halloween Film Fest at the Audelia Road Branch. Join us on Tuesday, October 24th at 4:00 p.m. for a frightening good time watching movies about ghost towns and ghost stories.

ALL AGES/FAMILY PROGRAMS
On October 4th at 3:30 p.m., join Lisa Fullerton of the City of Dallas Graffiti Abatement program and see the “Writing on the Wall”. Help to clean what you create and you’ll learn just how much graffiti costs the city. All ages welcome but particularly geared for youth and young adults.

On November 14th at 3:00 p.m., Marcialyn Banks of the North Oak Cliff Animal Shelter will be our special guest in support of Animal Shelter Appreciation Week. Learn about pet care, pet responsibility, strays, what to do if you get an animal bite, animal stories, and other important animal related issues and activities. We welcome all ages to the program.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group--First Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. with “office hours” afterward with Program Coordinator Belinda Glenn and the Dallas County KinCare Network. These meetings supplement the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Resource Collection at the Audelia Road Branch, Dallas Public Library.

Computer Classes--Learn about computer and internet basics. Classes for adults are held first Saturday of each month: Our next classes are October 7th at 10:00-11:00 a.m. and 11:00-12:00 p.m. Spaces are limited. Please call 214-670-1350 or stop by the information desk to reserve your spot.

Audelia Road Book Club--We’re back to our regular schedule of the last Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. This is a discussion group not a book review and we always welcome new members. Please RSVP to 214-670-1350 or dlyons@dallaslibrary.org. Our next selections:
September 28th: "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" by Mark Haddon
October 26th: "Can't Wait to Get to Heaven" by Fannie Flagg
November 30th: “Rise and Shine” by Anna Quindlen

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS
Story Times for Children (NOTE CHANGE!): Story times for all ages will be held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. Welcome to our new children’s Librarian Carol Dengle!
LIBRARY LIVE will take place at Audelia on the first Saturday of the month at 11:00 a.m. October 7th features Omar Angeles and Viva Mexico ! Learn about the culture of Mexico through song and dance. Chase presents LIBRARY LIVE! Big Thought’s FREE monthly program that offers interactive, culturally diverse performances and workshops for students and families. The program brings literary traditions to life through dance, visual art and music.

Department of: Let’s All Try to Get Along

You may have noticed that the trails and roadways inside and adjacent to White Rock Lake Park are becoming more and more crowded. There have been a growing number of accidents and near accidents involving automobiles, runners, and bikers. In an unprecedented effort to reach agreement on how everyone can use the park safely, all White Rock Lake Park users -- neighborhood associations, joggers, hikers, cyclists, bikers, walkers, marathoners, athletic clubs, sports associations, dog owners, etc. -- are invited to attend a White Rock Users Summit, Tuesday, October 24th at 6:30 p.m., at Winfrey Point at White Rock Lake. The Summit is being jointly sponsored by six City of Dallas Departments: Police, Fire & Rescue, Public Works, Dallas Water Utilities, Animal Services, and Park and Recreation.Come and share your concerns, ideas, and solutions.

For additional details, call Dallas Park and Recreation Department: 214-670-8847.

DIRECTIONS: Winfrey Point building is located on the east side of White Rock Lake. Take Garland Road to Emerald Isle (near Barbec’s Restaurant) and turn in toward the lake. You can also take the scenic route by entering the park at Garland Road and East Lawther and meandering along the shoreline. Follow the road right up the hill and the building will be on top.

October 9, 2006

Dallas Stage 1 - Drought Contingency Plan

As of Oct. 10, 2006, City of Dallas Water Utilities will enter Stage 1 of our Drought Contingency Plan. Residents are asked to voluntarily follow Stage 1 of the Plan in an effort to minimize the drought’s impact and postpone more restrictive measures.

Addresses which end in even numbers are being asked to water on Sundays and Thursdays.
Addresses ending in odd numbers should water on Saturdays and Wednesdays.
Hand-held hoses, faucet filled buckets or drip irrigation systems are OK anytime.

For more information:

http://www.dallascityhall.com

September 15, 2006

Timely Tip for September Gardeners

Fall Lawn Feeding
Research has proven that your fall lawn feeding in one of the most important ones of the year! Your lawn has just passed through the stressful summer months and needs food to rebuild itself. Calloway’s Premium Lawn Food supplies three sources of nitrogen. The first source provides a quick shot of nitrogen to give your lawn a nice greening effect. The other two are controlled-release to provide a consistent supply of nitrogen over the next several months. The 21-5-10 formula also supplies the needed nutrients to stimulate root development, make your grass hardier for the winter months and provide food for next spring’s growth!
This is also the time to apply preemergents to control those unseen broadleaf and grassy weed seeds to prevent them from sprouting over winter and spring.
So, don’t kick back and settle into football season quite yet-finish those last lawn chores and enjoy the results next spring!



Thanks,

Ramona Brown

Ramona Brown
Marketing Program Manager
rbrown@calloways.com
817.222.1122 (phone)
817.222.1040 (fax)

August 24, 2006

Audelia Branch Library Coming Events

AUGUST-SEPTEMBER UPCOMING ACTIVITIES
AUDELIA ROAD BRANCH
Dallas Public Library
10045 Audelia Road (corner of Audelia & Church) Dallas, TX 75238
214-670-1350 http://dallaslibrary.org

ADULT PROGRAMS/ALL AGES PROGRAMS

Adult Summer Reading Program
Hit the books this summer at the Audelia Road Branch’s Adult Summer Reading Program. It’s a fun way for book lovers to keep track of their reading and discover new titles and genres. All completed logs need to be turned in to a librarian on or before August 26, 2006. Prizes can be earned for the number of books read including some drawings for great prizes for those who fill up the whole log.
On September 16th at 11:00 a.m., we will celebrate Grandparents Day and Stepfamily Day at the Audelia Road Branch. Join us for a craft, songs, treats and two short films celebrating families: “The Electric Grandmother” and “Annie and the Old One”. We especially welcome families with children, grandparents raising grandchildren and those who speak Spanish.
September 21st at 2:00 p.m., Chiffon Okuda from Parkland Hospital will hold a class on nutrition for older senior adults.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group
· First Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. with “office hours” afterward with Program Coordinator Belinda Glenn and the Dallas County KinCare Network. These meetings supplement the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Resource Collection at the Audelia Road Branch, Dallas Public Library.

Computer Classes
· Learn about computer and internet basics. Classes for adults are held first Saturday of each month: September has some space during the 10:00-11:00 a.m. class and October 7th classes will be 10:00-11:00 a.m. and 11:00-12:00 p.m. Spaces are limited. Please call 214-670-1350 or stop by the information desk to reserve your spot.
· A computer class for senior adults will be Saturday August 26th at 11:00 a.m. This will not be a hands-on class but we will review the basics of the computer itself, discuss about the internet, and also the library catalog and databases. RSVP by calling 214-670-1350 or sign up at the information desk.

Audelia Road Book Club
· We’re back to our regular schedule of the last Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. This is a discussion group not a book review and we always welcome new members. Please RSVP to 214-670-1350 or dlyons@dallaslibrary.org. Our next selections:
· September 28th: "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" by Mark Haddon
· October 26th: "Can't Wait to Get to Heaven" by Fannie Flagg

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS
· Story Times for Children (NOTE CHANGE!): Story times for all ages will be held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. On Tuesday, September 12th, we’ll feature special guest reader Richard Smart from City of Dallas Storm Water Management.
· P.L.A.N.T. People & What’s Bugging You? on Tuesday, August 29th at 3:00 p.m. Presented by Janice Fowler and Dallas 4H. Come and make a plant person and see lots of bugs! Please bring a small can (the size of green beans or corn) for the program.
· LIBRARY LIVE will take place at Audelia on the first Saturday of the month at 11:00 a.m. Chase presents LIBRARY LIVE! Big Thought’s FREE monthly program that offers interactive, culturally diverse performances and workshops for students and families. The program brings literary traditions to life through dance, visual art and music.

August 23, 2006

Elks Holiday Weekend Party

The Elks invite you to join them for a Labor Day Weekend Party

When: Sunday, September 3, 2006; Begining at 1 PM

Where:: Elks Lodge 71, 8550 Lullwater Drive, off of NW Highway and across from the NW Terrace apartments.

The cooks will be barbecuing outdoors by the pool but you can join them in the cool indoor lounge. There will be games and entertainment indoors.

The food will be served from 1 to 3 and then the games will be afterwards.

4 PM : Pie in the Face Contest
6 PM Dancing begins

The admission charge is $6.50 for adults and $4.00 for children.

Beer is $.50 per glass.

August 17, 2006

Drugs & Kids

Whether you have toddlers or seniors in high school, this presentation will benefit you now and in the future. Drugs are present in our society, but we can protect our kids from being involved with drugs. Hear and learn from Dallas Police Narcotics Officers as to what to look for in your kids to determine if they are exposed to drugs, and how to prevent your children from becoming involved with drugs. This informative presentation is a must for anyone who has children. Do not miss this important presentation. Here are the details:


Date: September 6, 2006
Time: 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Emmett J. Conrad High School
7502 Fair Oaks Ave.
Dallas, Texas 75231



In addition, hear Chief Easterling from the Dallas Police Department Northeast Division with an update on what is happening in Northeast Dallas.
.


Co-sponsored by the
Northeast Division of the Dallas Police Department
and
Lake Highlands Area Improvement Association

August 12, 2006

Juice It Up!

Support our local retail! Let’s give Juice It Up a nice big Texas welcome and let the retailer know that it made the right decision by choosing our area as the first location to open in Texas. If you like Jamba Juice, then you will love Juice It Up! Stop by and check it out! The store is open, but there will be a grand opening celebration on Saturday, September 16th. For more information please read the press release below.

JUICE IT UP! OPENS IN LAKE HIGHLANDS
Exotic and Nutritious Smoothies and Juices Now Available in Dallas

(Dallas, TX)--- On August 2nd Juice It Up! opened their first Texas location at 7215 Skillman Street in the redeveloped Kingsley Square in Lake Highlands. Juice It Up! specializes in the “Southern California style” juice bar and has positioned itself among the top three leaders in the smoothie industry with blended-to-order fruit smoothies, fresh-squeezed juices and other beverages served in an energetic, family-friendly environment.
Juice It Up! blended smoothies are among the best tasting in the industry. Co-founder Larry Sidoti developed Juice It Up!’s original smoothie recipes and blanches at the notion that it’s hard to differentiate between the smoothies of various concepts.
Indeed, consumers do notice a difference. Juice It Up! smoothie blends are consistently voted “best tasting” in blind taste tests among the top smoothie and juice bar chains. Juice It Up! smoothies contain up to five servings of individually quick-frozen fresh fruit as opposed to purees or artificial sweeteners used by some smoothie concepts. Juice It Up! also has its own proprietary fruit juice blends along with custom yogurts and sherbets.
Juice It Up! features 22 traditional and distinctive smoothies from Mango Mania (mango, banana and strawberries) to Chai Tea (richly spiced or vanilla Chai Tea, banana and non-fat yogurt). The expansive menu includes meal-replacement power shakes, nectars, non-dairy coolers, hot teas and cocoas and organic coffees. Juice It Up! smoothies come in three sizes: 16 ounces ($3.45 average cost), 24 ounces ($3.95) and 32 ounces ($4.95).

In 2005, Juice It Up! introduced Healthy Way fresh-squeezed juices to give its customers an easy and delicious way to gain the recommended “5-a-day” serving of fruits and vegetables. The six selections include such varieties as Applemint (apples, ginger, lemon and mint), Fruitastic (apples, grapes, lemon) and the Rejuvenator (carrots, cucumbers, beets).
Juicing not only provides a simple way for individuals to get their daily serving of “good-for-you” foods but juicing promotes wellness and longevity by unlocking the proteins, vitamins and minerals of fruits and vegetables that are rich in potassium and antioxidants.

In celebration of the new opening, there will be grand opening festivities at the Dallas location on Saturday, September 16th from 11 am to 3 pm. To add to the already vibrant atmosphere there will be free samples, giveaways, balloons, live music and an appearance by Bill Blaydes.

Juice it up is located at 7215 Skillman St. Suite 322 Dallas TX 75231 Website: http://www.juiceitup.com/

August 11, 2006

Budget Town Hall Meeting

Councilmember Bill Blaydes invites you to attend a

Budget Town Hall Meeting

Tuesday August 22, 2006

7 - 9 PM

Lake Highlands High School
Student Center
9449 Church Road

Agenda:

2006-07 City Manager's Recommended Budget

Seating is Limited

August 9, 2006

LHAIA August 21 Meeting

Lake Highlands Area Improvement Association
Genera Membership Meeting

Monday, August 21st

7:00 pm

Lake Highlands Freshman Center Auditorium

Join us and special guest speakers

Sally Rodriguez, Dallas Parks and Recreation Department
“National CCC Celebration at Flag Pole Hill: Its History and Impact on LH”

Denton Walker, Trammell Crow
“Timbercreek Apartment Update”

New Recycling Carts - Register Now

Neighbors can sign up for a recycling bin at http://www.dallascityhall.com/. Instead of using blue trash bags, the city is providing large blue rolling bins to put all recyclables in. The bins will be delivered between November and December and the city will begin the program in January 2007. In order to receive a bin, you must sign up with the city.

August 7, 2006

Dallas Street Topper Program Rules

These street topper signs do not have anything to do with public safety and mobility, the City is not responsible for the sign installation and maintenance.

The Department of Public Works and Transportation, however, will review these signs and their intended locations prior to their installation, to insure that they will not impede any public safety. Dimension of the topper sign cannot be larger than 24" x 9". No sign topper will be allowed to mount on the traffic signal mast arm.

Alex Wong, Senior Program Manager (214-670-4654), Traffic Field Operations (3204 Canton Street), Public Works and Transportation, is the contact person.

Upon request from the neighborhood association, a cost estimate for the fabrication and installation of these signs or installation only (if signs are fabricated elsewhere) by City Forces based on overtime will be provided. City Forces can only use colors that are typical for traffic signs. The Association will have to purchase the signs from outside private sign company if special colors are used. However, signs must be installed by City Forces.

The neighborhood association needs to provide the following information in order for the City to provide a cost estimate:

1. Location map to identify where these signs will be installed. Signs shall be installed only at locations with existing street name signs. Sign toppers are placed on existing poles (2 signs per pole, back to back).
2. Also identify the street for which the installed sign toppers will be paralleled to.
3. Identify types of existing poles at these locations. Typically there are three types of poles:

a. round pole with brackets at the top to which the street name signs are fastened.

b. round pole with square extension to which the street name signs are fastened.

c. square pole with (2) 7/16 inch diameter pre-drilled holes 3", 4" 5" or 6" on center from hole to hole to which the street name signs are attached.

If the neighborhood association chooses to have City Forces fabricate and install their signs after conducting price comparison with other vendors, they will deliver the aluminum sign blanks to Transportation Field Operations at 3204 Canton Street with a check for fabrication and installation payable to City of Dallas. Fabrication and installation is normally completed within two to four weeks, weather permitting.

Note: 1. Republic Sheeting Co. (214-631-8070) is one of the area vendors some neighborhood associations used to purchase the aluminum sign blank. They will custom cut the sign blanks for $ 9.50 to $ 14.00 for one 24' x 9" aluminum blank depending on the quantity.

2. Morrison Sign Company (972-247-7160) is one company suggested by some neighborhood associations that will sell both the aluminum blanks and have the sign fabricated as well.

3. Average fabrication and installation cost by City Forces per location ( 1 pole extension with two one-sided signs) is about $ 70.00 - $ 120.00 depending on the existing pole types.

Please note that there is no requirement the neighborhood associations need to purchase sign blanks or finished signs from either Republic or Morrison Sign companies. Their names are provided for reference only.

When the street topper sign needs replacing due to vandalism, loss or normal wear, the neighborhood association shall bear the cost to replace the sign at the then prevailing rate for such signs. The City of Dallas reserves its right to remove any street topper signs that have become unsightly without replacing the sign.

July 28, 2006

National Night Out, August 1st

Get out and meet your neighbors on Tuesday August 1st between 7 PM and 8:30 PM.

We have four fun stations for you to enjoy stop by each to enter prize drawings:

10223 Lanshire: Fire Truck & Hot Dogs
10208 Linkwood: Police Car, VIP, Sign Toppers
10462 Lanshire: Pet treats & Games
9043 Livenshire: Kids games & prizes, face painter, bounce house, ice cream

It's going to be hot so we will offer free water at each stop as well.

Come out and have fun!

July 18, 2006

Bzzzzzzzz. . . slap!

Protection against mosquito bites:

Dallas residents are urged to take precautions against mosquito bites by reducing outdoor activity during evening and nighttime hours. Residents who are outside during these times should cover their arms and legs and use a mosquito repellent.

Prevent mosquito breeding:

Residents should eliminate standing water to prevent mosquito breeding and the spread of West Nile Virus. Breeding places for mosquitoes include swimming pools that are not kept clean, stagnant ponds, pet watering dishes, birdbaths, potted plants, old tires, empty containers, toys and clogged rain gutters. Standing water should be eliminated promptly, as mosquitoes can grow from egg to adult in as little as seven days. To report standing water or mosquito problems Dallas residents should call 3-1-1. For additional information on Mosquito Control, visit the City's website at www.dallascityhall.com <http://www.dallascityhall.com/>

July 11, 2006

National Night Out Meeting

National Night Out Planning Meeting

Where: Lake Highlands North Recreation Center

9940 White Rock Trail
214-670-7794

When: Thursday July 13th

Time: 6:30-7:45

July 3, 2006

National Night Out

National Night Out is a yearly event National Night Out can only be a success with your help. If you can help us Tuesday, August 1st we need you.

The purpose of National Night Out is to join with communities across the world and make a stand against crime. Specifically, NNO is designed to: 1) Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, 2) Generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime efforts, 3) Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police community partnerships and 4) Send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

Please contact Brandi below for more info:


Brandi Stringer
Mobile 214 914 3863
brandi_stringer@irco.com

NE Police Boot Camp 2006

WHERE: Bishop Lynch High School
DATE: 16 September 2006
TIME: 8AM - 3PM

Chief Jan Easterling, Deputy Chief of the Northeast Division of the Dallas Police Department along with it's strong core of volunteers have organized and will be offering for the first time ever, a one day massive training event. The event will be far reaching in subject matter and will be open to all residents, Home Owners Associations, existing Crime Watch groups, the apartment community, and anyone interested in community involvement and activity. Many classes will be offered. Upon completion of the courses selected, a certification certificate will be issued.
We have never had full day courses all run on the same day so this will be a first for:
· VIP (Volunteers In Patrol)
· C.H.I.P.S. (Citizens Helping In Parking Solutions)
· VIP for Apartments, Townhomes, and Condos (NEW)
· CPR
If you enroll in any of the above classes, that will be your only selection allowed as these are all day classes. If you do not select one of the four all day classes, you may select up to five from the following list:
A. Build Your Crime Watch Group - CWEB - Our link to the Dallas Police DepartmentB. Build Your VIP Group From Scratch - Crime Reduction Techniques C. Street Sign Toppers - Have Your Neighborhood Seen and Recognized D. Home Safety and Security - Helpful Services From DFD and DPD E. Use 311 -Get Your RSN Answered. Submit Open Records Request - ICP and You (Interactive Community Policing) F. Newsletter Writing - Plan A Neighborhood Party G. Graffiti and How to Attack It - Understanding Code Enforcement H. Hotline Phone Systems - Building Your Website - Find Out Other Neighborhood Links
You will need to complete five of the eight classes for "Boot Camp 2006" Certification or one of the all day classes. You may register in advance which is encouraged due to limited classroom facilities. If you do not wish to receive "Boot Camp 2006" Certification, you may select as few classes as you wish however preference will be given to those all day attendees.
Registration details, specific agenda, and further details will be forthcoming. We are the first Division in the City if Dallas and the Dallas Police Department to offer such a comprehensive one-day program. Our success will depend upon your participation and will set a bar of high standards for the rest of the city to follow. If you have any questions in the meantime, please direct them to:
Doug Woodham, bdw1023@yahoo.com orSylvia Weaver, sweaver444@comcast.net

June 16, 2006

4th of July Parade & Carnival

Annual Lake Highlands
4th of July Parade and Carnival
Tuesday, July 4th

8:30 a.m. – Gather for judging at North Highlands Bible Church (Garden Oaks & Church Road)

9:00 a.m. – Parade starts at Church and ends at Lake Highlands North Recreation Center

9:45 a.m. – Awards, Entertainment, Food, Carnival Games and Prizes

10:30 a.m. – Free Swimming
Awards for Best Decorated Bikes, Trikes, Floats, Costumes and Pets

Sponsored by the Exchange Club of Lake Highlands, Remax Associates of Dallas, Republic Title,
Capital Title, and the Dallas Parks & Recreation Department

For more information:
Contact the Lake Highlands Recreation Center at 214/670-7794,
visit the Exchange Club website at www.lhexchangeclub.org,
or contact Greg Duval at gregduval@sbcglobal.net

June 14, 2006

Kitty needs a home



Here's a couple of photos of Dexter... who was abandoned in a parking
lot...obviously a well loved kitty at some point... a purring and playing
machine. About 6 weeks old.

Know anyone looking for a lap kitten? Please contact Karen Olson at bloom4ever2222@sbcglobal.net

May 11, 2006

Councilman Bill Blaydes Invites you to

Capital Bond Town Hall Meeting

Tuesday, May 23 2006
7:00 - 9:00 PM

Lake Highlands High School
Student Center
9449 Church Road

Agenda: City Manager's Recommended 2006 Bond Program
City Council Office: 214-670-4088

May 10, 2006

RISD Bond Election

Saturday May 13th Polling hours are 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

The $145.4 million bond referendum package includes the following:
Instruction:
Equipment/facilities for expanded Career and Technology Education (CATE) courses
New curriculum (other than textbooks)
New instructional equipment
Instructional equipment cycles, etc.
Technology:
Updates/cycles in accordance with the Strategic Technology Implementation Plan
Technology infrastructure updates.
Facilities:
Renovations at LHHS (office/clinic area expansion, etc.)
Security management systems
Facility revitalization at 1960s-era campuses not previously renewed
Stadium renovation and handicap accessibility improvements
Roof and heating/air conditioning replacements
Sanitary sewer line replacements
Water management systems.
In addition, after receiving input from the 2006 Community Bond Reflector Group, the Board decided to include the following in the package:
Renovations to High School auditorium restrooms
High School sound and lighting enhancements to ensure consistency among campuses
High School large gym sound enhancements
High School tiles in non-renovated corridors to match new areas
Replace wooden bleachers at Pearce High School small gym.
All items in the bond package were selected for inclusion after instructional review of new regulations, selections of new *Career and Technology Education (CATE) courses, based on input from each high school; review of the Facility Assessment Study of 2000 and the 20-year facility maintenance plan; campus visits and review of work order history; input from the community, staff and Board of Trustees; and review of RISD’s 30-year debt management plan.
With a bond of $145.4 million, the district would be able to reduce the debt tax rate for property owners by one to two cents based on current total property value assumptions. A two-cent tax reduction in the debt rate would lower property taxes by $31.25 per year for the average market value homestead in RISD ($190,364 is the average value) or $15 for a $100,000 homestead.
Also on the ballot are RISD trustee elections for Places 1 and 2, but since only one person filed to run for each of these places, the candidates will appear on the ballot unopposed. Luke Davis is the candidate for Place 1; Pat Epstein is the candidate for Place 2.

May 8, 2006

LOCAL PET NEEDS A HOME

An L streets renter has moved away leaving behind a beautiful siamese/tortie female cat, approx 2-3 years old. She is very friendly and loving and is used to being an indoor/outdoor cat.

If you are interested and would like more information, please contact Karen at bloom4ever2222@sbcglobal.net

May 5, 2006

Opposition to Development in Lake Highlands

May 5, 2006

Dear Lake Highlands Residents,

As you may have heard there is a development planned for Timber Creek Apartments (Northwest Highway/Skillman) by Trammell Crow. Whether you are driving east on Northwest Highway or go north on Skillman, this site serves as a gateway into our area.

There have been several groups, all from outside of Lake Highlands, that are putting pressure on Gary Griffith (this is development is in his district) to oppose this project. Some of these groups include residents in other parts of Dallas, The Sierra Club, and LULAC.

These groups have concerns about the trees and tearing down the homes of low-income renters. The Dallas Observer also wrote an article about putting these people on the streets.

What all of these groups fail to mention is that there are over 28,000 apartment units in Lake Highlands alone and another 20,000 in Vickery Meadows. There is more than enough room to house all of these renters in other apartments in Lake Highlands. Nobody will be left on the street.

Trammell Crow has also said that it will give people up to a year to find a place to live.

The LHAIA has been working with Trammell Crow on tree mitigation. It is unfortunate that some trees will be lost, but trees will be replanted in medians all over our area. In addition to the LHAIA, the Dallas Children’s Theater has been working with Trammell Crow on tree mitigation.

When Timber Creek was built it was an adult only complex like much of the apartments in the Lake Highlands area. Federal law made it illegal to have adult only apartments in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Since then Timber Creek has turned into a multi-family apartment complex. This complex was not built or equipped to handle families living there. There are no playgrounds for the children. The complex is also approximately 30 years old and in need of costly repairs.

For years we have battled high crime, the lack of maintenance, and other issues at the apartment complexes that have greatly hurt our community. Finally, we have a developer looking to come into our area to bulldoze one of these apartments and replace it with a new development that will enhance our community.

If this project is opposed, it can set a dangerous precedent and message to developers that our area does not want to see apartments redeveloped. It doesn’t matter if you live in the northern most part of our area (Richland Park Estates, Whispering Hills) or in the southern area (Dixon Branch, Eastwood Estates); apartments have an affect on all of our neighborhoods. I urge you to let the City Council know how important redeveloping apartments are to you. Again, the defeat of this project can have an impact on future redevelopments of apartments close to your immediate neighborhood.

It is imperative that you as residents of the Lake Highlands area let your voices be heard. We have numerous apartment complexes in our area and it is important that some of them are redeveloped. As it stands right now, we have a higher ratio of renters to homeowners than the city of Dallas as a whole. We need this kind of redevelopment in our area, and I hope you will let Gary Griffith know how important the redevelopment of apartments is to you.

Please let Gary Griffith and the City Council know that the redevelopment of Timber Creek is important to enhancing the quality of life in our community.

It is time to let your voices be heard.

Gary Griffith’s email
gary.griffith@dallascityhall.com

Gary’s phone number
(214) 670-4069

Bill Blaydes’ email
Bill.blaydes@dallascityhall.com



Kindest Regards,
Sean Chris

Sean Christopher
Executive Vice President
Lake Highlands Area Improvement Association
Email: Schristopher@lhaia.org
Phone: 214-550-3407

April 25, 2006

Coming … Children’s Playground At Library Corner

At the Board meeting of the Audelia Library Friends this morning, we learned that a new playground is to be built in the next few months. It will be located on the northwest corner of library property at Church Road and Ravensway, across from Northlake Elementary School. This is a joint project between the Dallas Parks Department and Dallas Library. It will provide a place for young children in the 2 to 5 age range to play under the supervision of their parents while waiting for other library activities. At this point the popular weekly Storytime sessions attract 100 small children. During the school year the Northlake playground is not open for the small children so this will provide a safe, well-equipped area for parents to bring their children. Construction is expected to start soon and should be finished by the end of the year.
John Gould, Audelia Branch Friends, April 25, 2006

April 24, 2006

2006 RISD Bonds

Learn more about the 2006 School Bonds

Tuesday, April 25, 7pm - 9pm
J.J. Pearce HS - Auditorium
1600 N. Coit Rd., Richardson

Thursday, April 27, 7pm - 9pm
Lake Highlands HS - Student Center
9449 Church Rd., Dallas

Thanks, Lani Caffey District Community Liaison RISD Communications Department 469-593-0307

April 20, 2006

NE Police Station Crime Prevention Fair

When: Saturday, May 6th, 2006, 10 AM - 2 PM

DISPLAYS & DEMONSTRATIONS WILL INCLUDE:

DPD Helicopter · Careflite Helicopter ·
Mobile Storefront · Police Motorcycles & Squad Cars ·
Fire Trucks & Ambulance · Bike Patrols
FREE H.E.A.T. Registration and VIN Etching
Bomb Squad · SWAT Unit · Mounted Unit ·
North Texas Poison Control

and much much more.

Free hotdogs and soda

April 19, 2006

2006 Dallas Citizen Survey

Dallas Surveys Residents to Rate Quality of City Services
Random Survey Being Mailed to 8,400 households

The City of Dallas is conducting a Citizen Survey through May 15 to rate the quality of city services for everything from fire services, garbage collection, animal control, city parks, and alley maintenance to traffic signal timing and public information. The City of Dallas 2006 Citizen Survey is being conducted by the National Research Center, an affiliate of International City Management Association. The survey will be mailed to 600 households in each Dallas City Council District.

For the statistical validity of the survey, only those randomly selected will be sent the survey. This is a random survey; it is it important that everyone who receives a survey completes it and returns it by May 15. Please be assured that your answers will be kept anonymous.

Survey results will be shared with the public and the Dallas City Council in June. This is an annual survey that will allow the City to continue to track quality of life issues and rate city services.

For more information about the City of Dallas 2006 Citizen Survey, visit www.dallascityhall.com or call 311.




City of Dallas 2006 Citizen Survey
Frequently Asked Questions


Why is Dallas doing a citizen survey? The City of Dallas is conducting a citizen survey to become better informed about our customers’ perspectives and expectations for government. Survey results will be used to: measure service performance; benchmark service quality, and evaluate policies.

When will the surveys be mailed? Surveys will be mailed beginning April 17, 2006. The surveys should be mailed back by May 15, 2006.

What kinds of questions are included on the survey? Randomly selected households will be asked to rate the quality of city services ranging from garbage collection to 3-1-1. There are also questions related to general characteristics of the city such as ratings of safety, appearance of city facilities, and ease of doing business in Dallas.

What if I don’t get a survey, but still want to participate? 600 households in each Dallas City Council District were randomly selected to participate in the survey. Only those randomly selected will be sent the survey. It is important for the statistical validity of the survey that all respondents be randomly selected.

What will be done with the survey results? Survey results will be presented to the Dallas City Council in June, and will allow the City to continue to track quality of life issues and city services and also to compare Dallas city services with those of other cities.

Is the survey anonymous? Yes. Survey responses are completely anonymous and cannot be traced back to any respondent.

Is the survey available in other languages? The Dallas survey is also available in Spanish.

Who is conducting the survey? The City of Dallas 2006 Citizen Survey is being conducted by the National Research Center, an affiliate of International City Management Association.

City of Dallas 2006 Citizen Survey
National Citizen Survey Fact Sheet
The National Citizen Survey is a collaborative effort between National Research Center, Inc. (NRC) and The International City/County Management Association (ICMA).
The survey and its administration are standardized to assure high quality survey methods and comparable results across The National Citizen Survey jurisdictions. Participating households are selected at random and the household member who responds is selected without bias.

Multiple mailings give each household more than one chance to complete the survey. Results are statistically re-weighted to reflect the proper demographic composition of the entire community.

The National Citizen Survey customized for this jurisdiction was developed in close cooperation with the Dallas City Council and city staff. The City of Dallas selected items from a menu of questions about services and issues that affect the community; defined the jurisdiction boundaries used for sampling; and developed additional policy questions relevant to Dallas. All materials will be mailed out in both English and Spanish and all responses will remain anonymous.

It's Not for Eric Estrada.

Crime Watch and VIP: I'ts still not to late to get into this Saturday's CHIPS
(Citizens Helping In Parking Solutions) class to be held at the Northeast Sub
Station, 9915 E. Northwest Highway from 8:00 am til 2:00 pm. CHIPS help write parking citations for handicapped parking violations.

To be eligible, you must had already attended a VIP class. That means I have an approved
application on file for you. If interested just let me know at 214-671-0160 and
just show up Saturday morning. The date of the class is April 22, 2006.


////Ron
Carpenter

Some Bad Apples in the Neighborhood

From a neighbor who was a victim of a recent scam.

I let myself get scammed and I feel like an idiot because I knew it was happening from the start. I really do not know why I went through with it. I was having a garage sale a couple of weeks ago when a pickup with "fresh" fruit and veggies went by. I love fresh stuff, so I wanted to see if I could get some things. The truck was full of about 5 people and the head lady was busy talking with my neighbor. The "son" jumped out and would not let me look at the produce or speak to him about it. He said, "you have to wait for my Mom". She sold a bunch to my neighbor and came to me next. She was talking very fast and I think she was probably on speed or meth (drugs) The fruit she had me try was incredible, and she was SO persistant! I really only wanted a small amount of things, but she said she could only sell a big amount (ding ding...stupid me) I almost wanted to pay her to go away because I was having the garage sale and needed to tend to it. She would not stop talking and shoving samples at me. She would not move away from my doorstep! I even told her to please move because the juice is going to draw ants and she was blocking my door for customers! Well, the price was $ 87 for a big box of stuff. I "convinced" her to give me half a box for half the price ...OK, I know, I am a sucker! Anyway, when I got the stuff, which I did not pick out myself, because I was busy with my sale, was all total "expletive."
So, moral of the story...DO NOT BE STUPID LIKE ME and give your hard-earned money to these folks! They have a good scam going and I KNEW IT and STILL did it! I can see how someone else could also do the same...afterall, my neighbor bought the full box!

My friends, who were there, also later wondered why they had so many people in the truck. Perhaps these people are acting as "body guards" in case someone puts up a big stink? That is just strictly a guess, but who knows? It was a white pickup truck. I wish I had gotten the plate number. Anyway, people in our neighborhood should be warned about his and not to be bullied and not to be stupid like I was!

It happened in 8600 block of Lockhaven Drive on 4-9-06

Tax Exempt Apartments are Costing Big Bucks!

At the April 17th Lake Highlands Area Improvement Association general meeting President Steve Wakefield announced that the LHAIA had filed a complaint with the Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation who issued the financing for the Creekwood and Bent Creek apartments in our neighborhood. Both complexes have an exceptionally high incidence of crime and calls for police assistance while the ownership pays no taxes.
We encourage you to write or call Katherine Closman with the Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation, email kclosmann@tsahc.org or call her at 512-477-3555, ext 424. Please take 2 minutes and let your voice be heard; together we can make a difference!

Robin Moss Norcross
VP Communications
Lake Highlands Area Improvement Association
214.662.9133

April 8, 2006

Do You Want to Drink Cleaner Water?

The City of Dallas has a helpful website listing what you can do to help keep our local water clean and about the different water sources for the city.

http://wheredoesitgo.com

April 7, 2006

Teen Magazine Sales

These guys seem to hit our neighborhood every year. . .

Teens duped into selling mags and duping you
We’re getting closer to summer and the time when more scam artists try to take our money. One of these scams involves young people who sell magazines door-to-door. They claim they are working their way through school by selling magazines, and it’s a lie. The worst part is that these young people work for real lowlifes who have recruited them, moved them across the country and put them out on the road selling all hours of the day. These people, who are usually 18 or 19, are just dropped off in a van and told to sell magazines or they won’t eat. It’s mental abuse and for some reason the young people see no way out. Clark’s advice is to give the young people a little money or help getting home, but don’t buy the magazines. You will pay an exorbitant amount and will probably never see them. And, if you have teenagers who will soon be adults and are looking for a job, remember that this is going on. The ads will claim that the young people will “see the world” and make money while doing it. The truth is it’s extortion and it’s a con. Keep an eye on your kids.

From Clark Howard
http://clarkhoward.com/shownotes/2006/03/27/

March 30, 2006

Found Dog

We have had a small black & brown, wire haired terrier type puppyroaming San Souci Drive the past 2 or 3 days -- blue collar - no tags. We're concerned for its safety. Could anyone help locate it's owner? Have him temporarily in our back yard which isn't absolutely smalldog-proof. Call Wallace (214) 348-3139.

March 25, 2006

Continue to Receive Crime News Emails

The L Streets Neighborhood Association is upgrading it's Email services.

We will be transitioning from sending emails from our Hotmail account to a new account associated with our website called a Listserv. This new procedure will allow us to provide more timely information, greater security, and update and correct our lists. Many of you have moved and or have a new Email address and we need to make sure we have the most current address for you. All future correspondence will be communicated through the ListServ starting April 15th.

Please follow the steps below to sign up for the new Listserv.

1. If you wish to continue to receive L Streets email communication, you MUST follow these 5 steps:
Visit www.lstreets.org/emaillist.html
Enter your name
Enter your physical address
Enter your email address
You will receive an email to validate the email address you enter and you MUST click the link provided in the email to be added to the distribution list.

2. If you wish NOT to receive L Streets email communications:
Do nothing

Thanks!
communications@lstreets.org

March 16, 2006

New Home Builder Rankings from JD Power & Assoc.

Based on a survey of consumers who have purchased new homes and factors including customer service, home quality and value. Builders are ranked on a scale from zero to 160 points:--

Pulte 143
Fox & Jacobs 136
Centex 135
NuHome Designs 134
Huntington 133
Darling 132
Lennar 131
Ashton Woods 130
Highland 130
Horizon 129
Ryland 126
Drees Custom 124
David Weekley 123
Diamond 121
Paul Taylor 118
Landstar 117
Sotherby 117
Village Builders 117
DFW average 117
KB Home 115
Gehan 114
Kimball Hill 114
Newmark 114
Beazer 113
Buescher 112
Goodman Family 112
Standard Pacific 111
Coleman 109
Choice 108
History Maker 105
Bowen Family 104
Richmond American 104
Pioneer MHI 103
Mercedes 102
Legacy 101
Continental 99
D.R. Horton 99
Grand 99
Portrait 99
Woodhaven 99
Classic Century 96
First Texas 96
Goff 84

March 11, 2006

Fight Residential Burglaries in NE Dallas

At our Regional Crime Watch Meeting chaired by Chief Easterling, we decided to focus on residential burglaries over the next 8 weeks. We came up with the following list of items to work on. We need your help in fighting crime in NorthEast Dallas. Here’s what you can do:

  • Become Active in VIP (Volunteers in Patrol)
  • Have house numbers clearly labeled on the front and BACK of your property so emergency vehicles can quickly find it.
  • Communicate with your neighbors. Who are they, what are their patterns, when is there a suspicious vehicle in their driveway, when are they going out of town.
  • Call 911 as soon as you see someone / something suspicious. Do not hesitate.
  • Secure your garage. Close it. Do not create temptations for thieves.
  • Secure your home, check window & door locks. Videotape your belonging for insurance purposes, keep receipts to prove the property you own. Etch your driver’s license number on your valuables so they can quickly be identified in pawn shops.


Residential burglaries happen during the day time when most people are away at work. If you happen to work from home, be a stay at home parent, or be home during regular work hours, please keep an extra keen eye on the neighborhood during these times. The criminals know our patterns and prefer to strike when no one is around. Let’s surprise them and let them know we are watching their every move.

February 16, 2006

2006 VIP Training Dates

Don't be afraid or frustrated by crime, get involved and help prevent it by joining the L Steets Volunteers in Patrol. You will set your own schedule and patrol the neighborhood in a non confrontational manner. Applicants must first complete volunteer training and pass a background check. This year the classes will be April 17-18-20, July 17-18-20, a 1 day class on Saturday September 16, and finally another 3 day school on November 6-7-9. On the 3 day schools the first 2 are at the NE station from 7p to 9p with the third night downtown at the 911 office from 7p to 9p. the 1 day school is on a Saturday from 10a to 4p all at the 911 office.

http://www.dallaspolice.net/index.cfm?page_ID=1183

February 2, 2006

Lake Highlands Crime Summit

Attention HOA Presidents, Crime Watch Chairs, and residents intrested in reducing crime:

The LHAIA Crime Watch Committee will hold the first Lake Highlands Crime Watch Summit at 7:00pm Monday, Febuary 6th at the Lake Highlands Recreation Center. (9940 White Rock Trail; 75238)

The Crime Watch Summit will be a new meeting in which Crime Watch Chairs and HOA/Neighborhood Presidents from the various neighborhoods within Lake Highlands will meet and formulate a plan and exchange ideas to reduce crime in all of Lake Highlands. The first meeting will focus on:

What the problems are in your neighborhood.
How we all can work together to reduce crime.
How we (LH) can work more closely with the Dallas Police Department.
How we can communicate effectively with all of Lake Highlands.

As we all know, criminals do not care where our HOA boundaries start or finish and we must all work together to get the message across to criminals that we (the Lake Highlands community) will not accept or put up with crime. If we all work together, we can ensure that Lake Highlands will be one of the safest areas in Dallas.

For more information please contact Larry Jones at crimewatch@lhaia.org or contact Sean Christopher at Schristopher@lhaia.org.

January 24, 2006

Albertson's Finally Sold

Private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management and a group of real estate companies led by Kimco Realty will acquire 655 unprofitable locations, including Albertsons' 102 stores in D-FW.
Cerberus said it plans to run the stores, but analysts expect it to sell markets and store locations soon after the deal is closed this summer

Dallas Morning News, January 24, 2006

January 19, 2006

Albertson's Deal Back On

The Wall Street Journal reported today that the 9.6 Billion Dollar purchase by Supervalu and a consortium of private equity investors is progressing again. When the Albertson's on NW Highway is gone, let's hope someone quickly moves in and the area is not deserted. If Kroger moves their store to this location, then the Kroger store on NW highway may sit empty for a while.

Attention Lake Highlands Community!

Attention Lake Highlands Community!

The Lake Highlands Area Improvement Association

invites you to attend the

LHAIA General Meeting

Monday, January 23, 2005
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
at

Lake Highlands Freshman Center Auditorium
10200 White Rock Trail (75238)
Map of Location-Click Here

AGENDA

· Introduction
· Goals for 2006
· Developments
1. Kingsley Square
§ Marco- General Manager of LAFitness
§ Update on the project
2. Kohl’s Department Stores
§ Kevin Ripley- Store Manager
3. Creekside Villas
§ Neal Heckel- Developer
· Lake Highlands Attorney Advisory Group
1. Newport Landing & Bent Creek Apartments
2. Code Enforcement and City Ordinances
· Crime Watch and You
1. Revamped Crime Watch Committee
2. Information on the first LHAIA Crime Watch Summit
· What's happening in the Apartments
· Major Update on the Sign and Beautification Project
· Questions



Sean Christopher – Executive Vice President: email: Schristopher@lhaia.org
Robin Norcross – VP of Communications: email: robinn@ebby.com
www.lhaia.org


Please forward this message or tell all of your friends in Lake Highlands.

If you did not get this email directly from the LHAIA, please go to http://lhaia.org/Subscribe.php to subscribe to the LHAIA list serve.

January 13, 2006

Lake Highlands Elementary

January 12, 2006

Dear Lake Highlands Elementary Parent,

I am writing to let you know about an incident that took place this morning off of school property that involved two LHE students.

As they were walking to school, the students were followed and harassed by strangers in a white Cadillac. The students were not harmed, nor approached on foot. As they are taught, the students did not interact with the strangers, continued to school and reported the incident to school staff.

RISD’s safety coordinator, Mr. Luther Robertson, and the Dallas Police Department were notified and are looking into the incident.

This is an excellent time to again reinforce the safety lessons we continually teach our students.

· If walking to or from school, walk with a parent or responsible adult when possible.
· Walk in groups, and take a path to school that avoids alleys and deserted or enclosed places.
· Do not interact with strangers, or accept anything from them.
· If anything out of the ordinary occurs on the way to school, report it to a staff member or parent immediately.

Please let me take this opportunity to again assure you that the safety and security of our students is our top priority.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Kim Sullivan
Principal, Lake Highlands Elementary
469-593-2100
9501 Ferndale Road • Dallas, Texas 75238-2797 • 469-593-2100 • Fax 469-593-2088