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Call us Today: 214-526-2800 |
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As winter sets in, this cardinal sings of spring. |
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Greetings!
As February gradually transitions into March, the lingering days of winter begin to wane, making room for the promise of spring. Despite the occasional chill that still lingers in the air, signs of renewal are starting to emerge. Have you noticed the subtle hints of spring, perhaps the first daffodils peeking through the soil or the gentle chirping of birds in the early morning hours? If not, I encourage you to watch keenly as nature begins its annual transformation.
For many of us, myself included, the arrival of spring brings a sense of relief and anticipation. While I appreciate the beauty of all seasons, I must admit that my preference for warmer temperatures is why I live in the South. There's something truly invigorating about the sunlight, warmer temperatures, and freshness that spring brings, signaling a time of rejuvenation and growth.
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At the Turtle Creek Association (TCA), we share the spirit of renewal that accompanies the spring season. As the weather gradually improves, our commitment to preserving and protecting our beloved urban green space, Turtle Creek, remains unwavering. Over the past weeks, we've worked diligently with our new vendor, Trash Free Waterways, and the Parks and Recreation department to tackle the trash and debris issues along the Turtle Creek Trail. I'm pleased to report that the efforts thus far have yielded remarkable results (a complete report with photos is provided below). |
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If you haven't already done so, I encourage you to stroll the Turtle Creek Trail and witness the noticeable difference firsthand. The volume of trash removed has been truly extraordinary. In the coming week, we will be embarking on further initiatives to enhance the health and aesthetics of Turtle Creek. This includes raising tree canopies and clearing underbrush along specific sections of the trail, such as between Park Bridge Ct and Fairmount, and between the two Lemmon Ave Bridges. By eliminating lower branches and dense undergrowth, we aim to improve the creek's conveyance and reduce the likelihood of trash accumulation.
Additionally, efforts are underway to address the issue of homeless encampments along the trail. Last week, in collaboration with the Office of Homeless Solutions and the Parks and Recreation team, we addressed 11 encampments, from Avondale to Fairmount, ensuring that individuals receive the support they need while safeguarding the health and safety of our public green spaces.
Moving forward, we are committed to maintaining weekly patrols along the trail to promptly identify and address any encampments. We hope this proactive approach will ensure the well-being of individuals in need and contribute to the overall health and safety of Turtle Creek and its surrounding areas.
As we embrace the season of renewal, let us all renew our commitment to preserving and protecting Turtle Creek. Your continued support and dedication make a tangible difference in our efforts; we are sincerely grateful for that.
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President/CEO
Turtle Creek Association
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Let's Talk Trash!
Making a Difference: Successful
Creek Clean-Up Efforts
In our ongoing commitment to preserving and protecting Turtle Creek, the Turtle Creek Association (TCA) is proud to report the success of our recent comprehensive creek clean-up initiative. Led by our new vendor, Trash Free Waterways, the clean-up effort has yielded remarkable results, showcasing the positive impact of our collective efforts.
Gone are the days of limited parameters for trash removal. With Trash Free Waterways at the helm, all trash in and around Turtle Creek is being meticulously collected, even in the most challenging terrain. From steep embankments to treetops, our dedicated vendor has gone to great lengths, utilizing ropes and harnesses to reach inaccessible areas and remove unsightly debris.
The volume of trash collected during this endeavor has been nothing short of astonishing. Among the items unearthed are relics of the past, including a pull-top Budweiser Beer can and an impressive collection of over 150 golf balls from the Dallas Country Club, discovered tucked away in a small crevice of the creek.
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As we reflect on the success of this clean-up effort, TCA recognizes the invaluable lessons learned in the process. Building on our achievements, we are now elevating our efforts to strategically remove undergrowth and raise the canopy of trees along the creek. By enhancing the creek's conveyance and reducing the accumulation of trash in branches and undergrowth, we are furthering our mission to protect the integrity of Turtle Creek.
None of this progress would be possible without our members' unwavering commitment and dedication, as well as the generous support of our sponsor, Hillwood. Your collective support has been instrumental in driving positive change and ensuring the continued preservation of Turtle Creek.
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We hope that upon seeing the photos from our clean-up efforts, you recognize the tangible difference you are making. Together, let us continue our efforts to safeguard and enhance the beauty of Turtle Creek.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our shared mission. Below are pictures following the thorough removal of the trash. Have you ever seen the creek cleaner?
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Addressing Homelessness:
TCA's Commitment to Protecting
Turtle Creek
Homelessness is a challenging and sensitive issue that cannot be ignored. As stewards of Turtle Creek, the Turtle Creek Association (TCA) remains steadfast in our mission to preserve, protect, and enhance this cherished natural asset. Recently, the growing problem of homeless encampments in and around Turtle Creek has become a pressing concern, impacting the health of the creek, the safety of park users, and the well-being of our community.
In response to this escalating issue, TCA is actively collaborating with the City of Dallas to address homeless encampments along the Turtle Creek Corridor. Over the past two weeks, we have identified and compassionately addressed 11 large encampments (see map), engaging with individuals and offering them access to city resources for assistance. While most individuals decline help, we remain committed to supporting and ensuring their safety.
For the health of the creek and its wildlife, as well as the safety of park users, TCA, in coordination with the Office of Homeless Solutions and our Parks and Recreation partners, is conducting site clean-ups to remove bio-hazards, drug paraphernalia, and significant amounts of trash and debris. The photos clearly illustrate the challenge we face. In some cases, the accumulation of waste has been so extensive that it required the use of large roll-off trash containers for removal.
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To deter future encampments, TCA is utilizing our Trash Free Waterways vendor to patrol the trail multiple times per week and is diligently reporting encampments through the 311 City App. Additionally, we are taking proactive measures to clear undergrowth, which often serves as camouflage for encampments. This effort carried out in partnership with our Parks and Recreation team, aims to ensure the safety of trail users and maintain the health of Turtle Creek.
As community members, you can also play a role in addressing this issue. If you encounter an encampment, please report it promptly using the 311 City App. Together, we can work towards preserving the beauty and integrity of Turtle Creek while compassionately addressing the challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to protecting Turtle Creek.
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We are delighted to share some fantastic news with all of you. We are incredibly grateful to announce a remarkable and generous donation of $12,000 from Richard and Deborah Stanford.
Their extraordinary generosity to the Turtle Creek Association exemplifies an unwavering dedication to the betterment of our community. This substantial contribution will profoundly impact our ongoing initiatives and further our mission to preserve, protect, and enhance Turtle Creek.
Richard and Deborah Stanford, your remarkable generosity is a shining example. Your support empowers us to make a tangible and positive difference in the Turtle Creek community and beyond. Please join us in extending our heartfelt gratitude to Richard and Deborah Stanford for their philanthropic spirit and steadfast commitment to our shared vision. We are profoundly fortunate to have such devoted members within our association.
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Please Note: New Date for the TCA Annual Meeting |
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Annual Meeting/Member Mixer |
Please note a new date for the Annual Meeting to be held at the Sammon's Center for the Arts, formerly the Turtle Creek Pumphouse.
Are you a Current member?
This exclusive member-only event promises an evening of connection, information, and celebration against the backdrop of the beautifully transformed Sammon's Center for the Arts. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights into the organization's progress, with updates on current initiatives, and be some of the first to see a presentation on the master plan update and how it will shape the future of Turtle Creek.
TCA members are encouraged to mark their calendars for this exclusive gathering, where they can connect with fellow members, stay informed, and play an active role in shaping the future of Turtle Creek.
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TCA's Azalea Luncheon
On March 26, 2024, TCA invites you to an exclusive and intimate experience at the stunning Harlan Crow Library, where the Azalea Luncheon will unfold amidst the splendor of their Library of Fantastic Americana collection.
This limited-seating event promises a rare opportunity to explore the meticulously curated library, designed to showcase Harlan Crow's extraordinary 18th and 19th-century art collections. The library houses a remarkable assembly of portraiture, rare documents, manuscripts, and books, making it one of the most significant private collections in the nation, rivaled only by the Library of Congress.
Adding to the event's allure, renowned fashion expert Betty Reiter will again grace the luncheon with her expertise. Attendees can look forward to an engaging presentation highlighting the latest fashion trends emerging from the prestigious runways of New York and Paris fashion weeks. Betty Reiter's insights promise to be a delightful complement to the sophistication of the Azalea Luncheon.
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From Executive Suites to Soup Kitchens: Mike McCoy's Journey of Culinary Compassion
Mike is a self-taught chef who founded Chef to the Shelters, a North Texas-based nonprofit dedicated to catering and donating meals to sober living homes and addiction treatment shelters and facilities.
With nearly a decade of experience as a professional sports executive, Mike held sales leadership roles with esteemed organizations such as the Texas Rangers, Dallas Stars, Lone Star Park, and the American Airlines
Center. He transitioned to commercial real estate for another decade until he faced his own battle with addiction to drugs and alcohol, which ultimately led him to seek help and achieve sobriety in April of 2018.
During his journey to recovery, Mike cultivated his passion for cooking, honing his skills through self-study with Culinary Institute of America textbooks and hands-on practice in his kitchen. Driven by his innate cooking talent and desire to give back to the community, he expanded his culinary endeavors to include delivering meals to sober living communities, thus establishing Chef to the Shelters in 2021.
The same year, Mike was invited to join the culinary team at Augusta National Golf Club for the prestigious Masters Tournament. Working in Berckmans' Place, the most exclusive venue at the Masters, he collaborated with some of America's most talented chefs. Two years later, Mike was honored with
the "White Jacket," symbolizing his success and leadership.
Today, Mike McCoy's Chef to the Shelters prepares and delivers over 1200 monthly meals to 34 area sober living homes and shelters. In addition, he serves as a private chef and caterer for businesses, private
events, and fundraisers.
We sincerely appreciate that Mike will be crafting a special menu for our upcoming event, and we are privileged to have the opportunity to showcase and support his remarkable community outreach efforts.
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Join us as we step into the historical world of the Harlan Crow Library, where history, art, fashion, and culinary delights converge to create an unparalleled experience. We eagerly anticipate welcoming you to this exceptional gathering to celebrate the richness of American heritage and cultural expression. |
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Join Us in Protecting Turtle Creek!
At TCA, we're committed to safeguarding and enhancing the Turtle Creek Corridor. But we can't do it alone. Your membership is vital.
By joining us, you shape initiatives that benefit our community. Your support—through donations, event attendance, volunteering—makes a real impact.
Not a member yet? Join today and be part of a community dedicated to preserving Turtle Creek's beauty.
Current members, please renew and spread the word. Together, we make a difference.
Together, we protect Turtle Creek.
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Deborah Stanford - Chair
Dick Babb
Kyle Crews
Landon Lowry
John Lesselyong
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Don McDermett
Ken Reese
Blake Ship
Ann Stuart PhD
Andrea Willett
Worth Ross - Adviser
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TCA Leadership:
President & CEO
J. D. Trueblood
V.P. of Development
Sharon Ballew
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Protector $20,000+
Teresa Byrd
Lyda Hill Philanthropies
Deborah & Ricahard Stanford
Dr. Stephen & Stacie Worsham
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Visionary $10,000+
Sharon & Maurice Ballew
Cynthia Hennessy & Bob Allen
Hillwood - Urban
M.O.B. Foundation Susan & Bill Montgomery
Scot Presley & Steve Rayl
JD Trueblood & Franco Dooley
Urban
Allie Beth Allman & Associates
Elyce & David Walthall
Gloria & Jerome (Bruzzy) Westheimer
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Conservator $5,000+
Dick Babb & Phil Neely
Ben E. Keith Foundation Robert Hallam JR
Paul Cheng
Kendall & Craig Clark
Peggy Dear
Dee & Jim Genova
Mark C. Hutchinson
Sue Krider
Kathryn & Clay Murphy
Ani & Pedro Nosnik
Pittman|Stovall
Ella Prichard
Worth Ross Management
Barbara & Jerry Smith
Ann Stuart PhD
Venise & Larry Stuart
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Naturalist $2,500+
Aqua Clean
Belmont Village Senior Living
Gina & Tucker Bridwell
Briggs-Freeman|Sotheby's International Realty
Christopher Place HOA
Anne & Kyle Crews
Concierge Auctions
Garry Cox & Don McDermett
Jean & David Dean
Camille & David Fournier
Beverly Goulet
Faisal Halum
Phil Hobson
HomeBank Texas
Scott Kahle & James Jones
Honorable Eddie Bernice Johnson
Suzy & Bob Kriscunas
Patricia Kozak & Jeff Warr
Karleen & Michael Leger
Diane & John Lesselyong
Lincoln Property Company Residential
Lisbeth Minyard Lokey
Erin Mathews
Barbara McJimsey & Roy Farrelly
Susan & Ronald Nash
Jim Pitts
Plains Capital Bank
Kelli & Allen Questrom
Renie Randall
Rosewood Residential
Salka Impact Fund
Rachel Segal
Vickie & Gaines Stanley
Tactical Fleet
Turtle Creek Bend HOA
Johanna & Mitch Vernick
Carolyn & Richard Waghorne
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Steward $1,500+
21 Turtle Creek
Kim Askew
Heather & Ray Balestri
Ellen Brown & Rick Selah
Catherine & Regina Cocanougher
Nancy & William Corbett
Mary & Richard Covington
David Curry & Scott Zirbel
Janice d
Rosemary Enrico
Marion Flores
Gail & James Furrh
Mike Harrison
Luke Huddleston & Jeremy Larsen
Claudia & Layton
Gemey Kaliff
Legacy Landscape
Kathleen & Frank Lauinger
Beverly Lee & Ed Beanland
Carol & John Levy
Lynn M. Lewis
Diana & Todd Maclin
Barbara McJimsey & Roy Farrelly
Republic Title
Nancy & Harry Roberts
Alan Roller & Chris Vesy
Pat & Jed Rosenthal
Dianna & Francis Sommer
Vickie & Gaines Stanley
Judith Talley
Judy & John Temple
Judy & Paul Whitman
Peggy & Mark Zilbermann
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OFFICE ADDRESS: 3131 Turtle Creek Blvd, Suite 340, Dallas, Texas 75219
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