Peak's Addition Homeowners' Association

The quarter-mile "drag strip" on Swiss Avenue between Carroll and Fitzhugh Avenues is now 50% shorter.

On December 7, city workers erected two octagonal, reflective icons of undeniable halting power at Grigsby Street.

These interruptive marvels exist due to the volunteering efforts of Zelman Brounoff, Jim Anderson, and over 100 concerned and borderline enthusiastic neighbors who favorably signed a city-issued petition.

Scientists from MIT have determined that the four square inches of sod removed to house the new sign stanchions will not accelerate current global warming concerns.

Stop by soon and experience them for yourself.

Posted by at 11:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Betty Cook, who lived on Junius and was a longtime resident of Peak's Addition, passed away on Tuesday night. Betty was on our neighorhood board for many many years and was a very strong supporter of our causes. She fought many of our early battles with the City, going downtown and making our voice heard. Because of her activism, our neighborhood is a much nicer place today. We have lost a good friend, a great lady. We shall miss you Betty.

Click here to read an article about Betty on the East Dallas Blog.

Posted by at 5:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

PAHA is currently collecting signatures for a petition to implement a four way stop at the corner of Swiss Avenue and Grigsby Street. Residents who reside within 900 feet of this intersection and are interested in making it safer should consider signing this petition. Contact Jim Anderson at 214.821.3936 or Zelman Brounoff at 214.827.3997.

Posted by at 5:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

PAHA is currently collecting signatures for a petition to implement a four way stop at the corner of Swiss Avenue and Grigsby Street. Residents who reside within 900 feet of this intersection and are interested in making it safer should consider signing this petition. Contact Jim Anderson at 214.821.3936 or Zelman Brounoff at 214.827.3997.

Posted by at 5:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Bob Rogers, Criminal Law Attorney
4711 Gaston, 214.720.0585
www.roberthrogers.com

Attorney Bob Rogers and his wife Donna have a passion for restoring older homes and have lived on Swiss Ave since 2000.  That is why it is no surprise that Bob moved his successful criminal defense practice to 4711 Gaston in 2007.  The property had been condemned and was on the demo list.  With help from Tracy Venagas, the property was transformed into its current state.  The law office is warm, inviting and comfortable.  The ceilings are high, the hard wood floors are gorgeous and it is evident that special care was taken to restore every detail with historic integrity.  As a graduate of SMU, Bob Roberts has been successfully practicing criminal law, in which he is Board Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, since 1984.  He has also been recognized as one of Dallas’ Best Lawyers by D Magazine. Prior to purchasing Gaston, his office was located in the Oak Lawn area.  His new location has worked well for him. “I love east Dallas, I can bike to work.” He is not alone in the 3,100 square foot office space.  Steve Cooper, David Coody and Steve’s wife Jackie all share the space and also practice Criminal Law. The three attorneys have been together for many years and are all happy to have settled in East Dallas. “This location is perfect, it is close to everywhere we need to go, including the courthouses”, said David Coody who is featured in the residential profile this month. They also have room for more and currently have office space for lease.  Anyone interested can contact the number above for details.

Posted by at 9:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

On March 26, 2009, MZ Grocery’s appeal of TABC’s decision not to renew their alcohol sales permits was held in the 44th District Court before Judge Carlos Cortez. Following a 90-minute hearing, Judge Cortez affirmed TABC’s decision denying renewal of the permits. This confirms the administrative law judge’s previous ruling and represents a huge victory for the neighborhood.

TABC’s order takes effect immediately, though the agency may give MZ Grocery a little time to dispose of its inventory. Nonetheless, alcohol sales should cease within a few days.

Many thanks to the sizeable group of neighbors who showed up (many for the fourth time) at the hearing to voice their support in the form of their attendance. Once again, the showing of community support on this issue was invaluable. Also, much appreciation is due to Nick Canaday from the Texas Attorney General’s Office, who was tasked with arguing for the affirmation of TABC’s order with only 6 days to learn all the facts and prepare the legal arguments.

A huge recognition also to the core group who spent many hours working on this over the past several years:

• Adam McGough, Community ProsecutorCody McCullar, Community Prosecutor
>
• Walker Duke, PAHA Resident
• Elizabeth Nelson, PAHA Resdient

Posted by at 12:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Alright everyone, it's time to rally the troops for MZ Grocery one more time. They have filed their appeal and the matter is set for hearing next Thursday, March 26th at 9:30 a.m. It is being heard in the 44th District Court (Judge Carlos Cortez), which is located downtown in the George Allen Courts Building at 600 Commerce Street (this is different from where the trial was). This is very short notice, but that is the timeframe that the procedural rules dictate.

We need as many people there as possible. No one will have to speak and, in fact, the Protestants sole mouthpiece will be the Attorney General's Office (who represents TABC, the technical "Defendant"). However, just as with the original trial, neighborhood participation through attendence will be very important.

Date: Thursday, March 26
Time: arrive in court by 9:15
Location: George Allen Courts Building, 600 Commerce Street
Parking: there are various parking lots around the courthouse, but there is underground parking connected to the courthouse (entrance on Commerce St. by the Old Red Courthouse) that is very convenient. Approximately $8-$9.
Duration: The hearing could last anywhere from 10 minutes to 2 hours, but it should not be an all-day event like the trial.

This is the final step, if we are successful, at having alcohol sales discontinued at MZ Grocery. A final ruling is due by March 30th, so the end is potentially in sight. We need everyone's help to try and finish this out!

Posted by at 5:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Our Crepe Myrtle/parkway planting initiative got unanimous approval at the February 12, 2009 task force meeting.
All should go well with the approval process from The Landmark Commission, so look for the planting of nearly 30 trees to take place in March along Junius, Worth and Sycamore streets.  
There will be an assortment of red, pink, purple and white varieties planted.  If your parkway has been selected to receive free trees, please do your part by keeping them watered this summer.  
Thank you to those neighbors who agreed to be a part of this project.  Also thanks to Elizabeth Nelson, who volunteered her time with the planting initiative.

Posted by at 5:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Keith Becker has been officing at 4807 Gaston for over 5 years now.  A graduate of Syracuse Western New England  Law School and now a family law specialist, Becker loves the high ceilings and hardwood floors of the 1909 house converted law office he shares with Lisa McKnight.  The house was unkempt and “eccentrically decorated” when purchased in 2003.   “There was a lawn mower in the dining room and several toilets in the back yard” said Becker.  But it was a bargain.  This, coupled with the commercial zoning and his desire to own his office prompted the purchase.  “I love all of the locally owned establishments” said Becker.  He frequents Jimmy’s, Alligator, Divino’s and the Brake Stop to name a few.  Not once has he regretted moving his office to Peak’s Addition.  “It literally takes me five minutes to go to the Court House.  I love it here.”

Posted by at 10:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

As of press time, there is no new news regarding the MZ Grocery protest.  The judge has not yet issued a ruling.  It is not uncommon for judges to take several weeks to make a ruling, and there was a larger than usual amount of evidence and testimony for him to consider in this case.  The ruling will be posted on the PAHA website when it is received, so check back regularly.

Posted by at 10:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Johnny's Club Vegas on Gaston at Peak has closed its doors.

Posted by at 8:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

On August 22, 2008, the State Office of Administrative Hearings held the long awaited hearing on the protest of MZ Grocery's alcohol sales licenses.  The neighborhood put on its evidence of why the permits should be denied, and the Dallas City Attorney's Office presented its best case as well.  The judge took the arguments and evidence of all parties under advisement and should issue his ruling within the next month.

Many thanks to the large group of neighbors that showed up that morning to lend their support in the form of their appearance.  Also, many thanks to all the neighbors that showed up for the previous two settings.  The neighborhood owes a large debt of graditude to Elizabeth Nelson for initiating this protest and seeing it through for 2 1/2 years, to Adam McGough of the Dallas City Attorney's Office for continued support of the neighborhood's efforts, and to our City Council Representative Pauline Medrano who made an appearance at the hearing to voice her support of the protest.

Posted by at 10:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Baylor has several developments planned, including a new Administration building
located off Worth and Haskell, behind the El Mundo Tire store. The land has
been cleared and is being prepared for development of the first building within
the new Baylor PD district. The building will be a four story office building,
constructed of red brick with black awnings on the first floor. Businesses that
will office there or lease space there include: Baylor Police, Credit Union,
MEDCO construction, Baylor's Legal department, CB Richard Ellis. The building
is 85,000 square feet and will have highly landscaped surface parking behind the
building.

Continue reading "Baylor Campus Developments" »

Posted by at 1:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

In lieu of the PAHA monthly general meeting, we will have a hot dog and ice cream social in celebration of the 4th of July. Sharron Sadacca has generously offered her home at 4806 Gaston Avenue for this occasion. Please bring a covered dish or dessert. Hot dogs, soft drinks and water will be provided. Those that would like additional libations should BYOB.
Look forward to seeing everyone there!

Those on the PAHA email distribution list received an evite invitation. Other neighbors who plan to attend should contact Janet Staring to RSVP.

Posted by at 1:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Peak’s Edition regrets an omission in the May 2008 article “Thank You to Our 2008 Home Tour Sponsors.”
PAHA thanks the Ryan Thebeau State Farm Insurance Agency for supporting the home tour as a Heritage Sponsor.

State Farm Insurance
4201 Gaston Ave., Ste. 106
214.823.8400
214.282.0476
Ryan Thebeau State Farm Insurance Website
www.RyanThebeau.com

Posted by at 1:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

So the real estate market is slowing down? Well, it doesn’t seem like it in East Dallas. Several developments are taking place in and around Peak’s Addition. So many, it’s difficult to keep up! For starters, we all know about the “Office Depot” shopping center at the corner of Gaston and Haskell. Office Depot, Lenny’s Subs, State Farm Insurance, Divino’s, and T-Mobile are all officially open for business, so please visit soon! On the corner of the site, a bank is being constructed right now. This will be a Capitol One Bank. Across the street from the Office Max Center, between the 7-11 and Church’s Chicken, the old Divino’s will be torn down, as well as the coin laundry. In their place will be an Aldi grocery store. This will be a great little neighborhood grocery with all of the basics, within walking distance for some. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2009. Visit www.aldi.com to learn more about their business.
Some other developments to mention:

Continue reading "Gaston Avenue and other Area Development by Elizabeth Nelson" »

Posted by at 1:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

A neighbor in the 5000 block of Victor found a lhasa apsa male dog; he is white with a brownish face wearing a red collar but no tag. My neighbor has him inside but had to go to work. He will be home at 5 but did not want to leave this dog running loose.

Posted by at 1:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Smokey John's BBQ is opening soon on Gaston Avenue at Washington.

Check it out and send us your reviews!

Posted by at 10:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Our own Zach Madsen occupies a house at the corner of Worth and Prairie that has been home for many people over the years.
The house was built in 1915. It must have begun life as an upper-middle-class home because in 1918 a man named Sam B. Ward, of that address, is reported as entering the armed forces for World War I. Mr. Ward was listed in the newspaper in the section for Negro enlistments. The neighborhood was not at the time open for residence by African-Americans as renters. It is likely he or his parents were servants at the house, living in quarters in the back. In 1919 the house was sold for $5,800, at the high end of home values.

Continue reading "The Adventures of Zach’s House by Evelyn Montgomery" »

Posted by at 4:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

On December 9th, the White Rock Marathon made its annual pass through Peak’s Addition. Once again, neighbors Jarrod and Allison Bassman and Daniel and Alex Watters generously hosted a party in front of their homes.

Runners were greeted by the invigorating sounds of three bands: the Cat Daddies, Shig Shag, and Squirrel Attack. Neighbors diligently cheered on the runners while enjoying the great music and breakfast refreshments. This event was truly fun for the whole family! Some runners encouraged personal cheers by printing their names on their shirts so encouragement shouted by strangers could be made more meaningful!

Nathan Galbreath and Arthur Cirillo, both PAHA members, ran the marathon. If you have not experienced the neighborhood ‘Run the Rock’ party, make plans to join us next year. This is a great way to meet the neighbors and enjoy a beautiful day!

Posted by at 4:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

On July 3rd, PAHA held its monthly meeting and a social at the home of Sherry Swanson and Brent Duncan. Sherry treated guests to tours of the amazing renovations she and Brent have done to the house and then guests mingled with each other over drinks and appetizers. PAHA President J.W. Brasher led a brief meeting. He described the proposed Reconciliation Outreach plan to renovate the Brannon Building at the corner of Peak and Bryan into a charter school. Brasher summarized plans the neighborhood has heard so far and indicated that the Board and Old EDAN believe that a school in this location is a poor use of a great space. Brasher also detailed plans for an apartment complex development near the intersection of Fitzhugh and Live Oak. The apartments are currently slated to be large, upper to medium priced apartments with a Craftsman exterior. Brasher commented that this developer had been very responsive to the concerns of the neighborhoods and made numerous changes after speaking with neighborhood representatives.
Pamela Ashford, our city services coordinator, spoke about her job and updated guests on recycling options in Dallas. She encouraged guests to call her if they have a problem with city services.
After the meeting, guests ate hot dogs and burgers cooked up by Clark Mitchell and Mark Staring and enjoyed the pot luck side dishes. In spite of the heat, everyone had a great evening of good food and good fellowship. Join us for our next general meeting.

Posted by at 7:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Peak’s Addition resident Britney Hardy, of Swiss Avenue (pictured, 3rd from left), was recently recognized along with fellow Girl Scouts. Girl Scout Troop 1776, which comprises 11 Lakewood girls, has achieved Junior Girl Scouting's highest award, the Bronze Award. The route to the Bronze Award includes the earning of selected badges and the achievement of other awards, and culminates in a community service project that the girls must organize and execute. Troop 1776 chose as their service project the preparation and assembly of craft kits for patients at Children's Medical Center. The girls individually each did a "rattle drive" to provide toys for the babies in the hospital. Congratulations to the girls on this special achievement. The troop is led by Amy McLarty and Evelyn Hardwick. For information on joining the Girl Scouts, contact Evelyn Hardwick at ehardwick@republictitle.com. As seen on Lakewood-Now.net.

Posted by at 6:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

On Tuesday, July 10th, a home in the 4300 block of Junius was burglarized. The intruder(s) broke out a window and entered during the day. They made off with mostly smaller items and appear to have been on foot, according to the police. Please be on the lookout and be cautious!

Posted by at 6:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Neighbors are cautioned to look out for the following con artist who is once again canvassing our neighborhood.

A man knocked on a PAHA neighbor's door on Junius Street and after a polite introduction in which he claimed he was a neighbor and apologized for his appearance, asked for help with some gas money for himself and his girlfriend. He offered to write a check from Washington Mutual in exchange for cash and offered up several "references" including that he worked downtown at Hoffbrau House, was a neighbor, and had just spoken with some other neighbors but was embarrassed to be doing this.

He is a black man who used the name Douglas, claimed to be Canadian, spoke with a slight British accent, and on Monday, July 16, was wearing a blue button down Oxford shirt, khaki pants with a belt, and black tennis shoes. He was very charming and friendly and did not immediately appear threatening or intimidating. Nonetheless, neighbors should be cautioned that this man has approached numerous other people in our area with the same story over the past few months and that the check he offers turns out to be a fake. Neighbors should report this man to the police if he approaches them.

Posted by at 2:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

View photos from the PAHA Wine Crawl held on June 2, 2007

View photos from Picnic in the Park held on June 10, 2007

Posted by at 10:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

On June 2nd, please join your fellow PAHA members for a Junius Street wine crawl. Taste some phenomenal wine selections chosen specially for PAHA by Francois at La Cave Warehouse.

Members and friends enjoying the
First Annual wine crawl in May 2006

Continue reading "Second Annual PAHA Wine Crawl - Featuring Junius Street" »

Posted by at 6:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Julian Mancia has recently opened Julian’s, a Panaderia at Gaston and Carroll, right next door to the Subway. Mancia, originally from El Salvador, but most recently from the Echo Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, moved to Dallas to follow a dream of opening his own business. He said that Dallas offered good schools and a better standard of living than Los Angeles did, and since he had some family here, he decided to “give it a go.”

Continue reading "Julian's" »

Posted by at 6:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

The association established a new concept around assigning Block Coordinator for each street in our neighborhood. The Block Coordinator will manage HA activities on their respective blocks, learn and share what is important to their blocks, maintain information flow, and promote cooperation among their blocks and with the larger HA. Here are the new Block Coordinators :

Sycamore - Bill Arnquist
Swiss - Jim Anderson
Gaston - OPEN
Junius - Robert Kam & Zelman Brounoff
Worth - Don Yarbrough
Victor/Reiger - OPEN

There is a NEW section on the website called Street News. Check out this section to find out what's happeing on your street. If you have street news, send it to webmaster@peaksaddition.org and your Block Coordinator.

Posted by at 10:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

During the last general meeting, members discussed the idea of creating of a new role that could manage and coordinate the goals and initiatives of the larger HA at the block and street level.  Allowing the Board to manage the overall, big-picture mission of the Association, these “Block Coordinators” would manage HA activities on their respective blocks, learn and share what is important to their blocks, maintain information flow, and promote cooperation among their blocks and with the larger HA.  Some specific roles the Block Coordinators might fulfill could be assisting new and existing homeowners, helping with fundraising efforts, as well as planning block activities and social events.
The proposal was well received during the meeting and was unanimously approved for further exploration. The position’s creation and successdepend largely on your involvement in the development process.  We need your input on how this position would benefit your block and the Association. Provide your input by clicking on the Comments link below this article.

Posted by at 12:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)