District 9 News & Updates

Issue No. 44♦ November 3, 2023

Please Meet District 9 Charter Review Commissioner, Michael Jung

Michael Jung, a lawyer who practices in the Dallas office of Clark Hill PLC, represents District 9 on the Charter Review Commission. There, he is helping to identify structural changes that will make Dallas a more efficient and equitable city. He has served on various City boards and commissions, and is currently the City’s second-longest-serving member on such bodies.

Michael has been active in civic affairs in Dallas for over forty years. He has been president of the Dallas Homeowners League, and was a founder and president of Texas Neighborhoods Together (the statewide network of citywide umbrella neighborhood organizations). He served for eleven years on the City Plan & Zoning Commission and twenty years as a member of the Dallas Zoning Ordinance Advisory Committee, and served on the Dallas Charter Review Commission in 2002-03 and the Dallas Ethics Review Task Force.

Michael has been active in efforts to preserve and protect White Rock Lake, as a founding member and later chair of the White Rock Lake Task Force, as a board member and president of the White Rock Neighborhood Association, as a founding board member and secretary of the White Rock Lake Museum, and on various ad hoc City committees and task forces relating to the Lake.

Michael is also a board member and past president of the Texas Land Conservancy, and serves as a trustee and officer of Destination Imagination, Inc., an international program promoting creative problem-solving for students of all ages. He has served in the past as Council President of King of Glory Lutheran Church, and on the board of the Friends of Fair Park.

Mr. Jung is married to Gretchen Lee Megowen, M.D., a retired Dallas psychiatrist. He and his wife have lived near White Rock Lake since 1980. They have two adult children, and four grandchildren ranging in age from 5 to 17.

Austin Street Center's Annual "Humble Beginnings Luncheon"

On Friday, October 27th, I attended the Austin Street Center's Annual "Humble Beginnings Luncheon" to help raise awareness and funds around the issue of homelessness within the City of Dallas. Austin Street Center is considered one of the largest shelters in Dallas assisting the unhoused community. Along with providing their clientele with basic needs, the center also offers a wide array of services to help individuals overcome barriers that hinder their ability to maintain permanent housing. I had a lovely time with CM Willis celebrating the great work that Austin Street Center does for our community.

Black Tie Dinner

Last Saturday, October 28th, I attended the Black Tie Dinner in support of our LGBTQ+ community. The dinner is dedicated to raising funds and providing resources for organizations centered around LGBTQ+ rights and advocacy. Over the course of 40 years, the dinner has distributed over 27 million dollars towards various organizations that serve the needs of the LGBTQ+ community across the nation. I had a wonderful time attending the Black Tie Dinner and wish to see their vision statement come to fruition, where they "envision a community where the lives of all LGBTQ+ individuals are improved, accepted, and recognized."

Anti-Defamation League Walk Against Hate

On Sunday, October 29th, I, along with Council Member's Kathy Stewart, Cara Mendelsohn, Jaynie Schultz, and Paul Ridley, walked against hate alongside 1500 City of Dallas residents. I would like to thank the Anti-Defamation League as a whole for hosting this event in our great city. Dallas is no place for hate of any kind!

Updated District 9 Crime Statistics and a Special Thanks to the Dallas Police Department for Keeping our Community Safe

Dear District 9 Residents,

We have received several inquiries regarding recent concerns about the safety of our neighborhood, particularly in light of certain publications that may not fully represent the complete picture. We are here to provide an accurate and reassuring update on Public Safety in our beloved District 9. Rest assured, we remain committed to working tirelessly alongside the Dallas Police Department (DPD) to maintain District 9 as a secure and inviting place to reside and visit for our residents and the broader community.

Upon conducting a thorough review of the latest crime data from the Dallas Police Department and engaging in constructive conversations with DPD Officials, we can confidently assert that there has not been a significant increase in crime within District 9. The DPD categorizes offenses into three primary categories:

Crime Against Person (Violent Crimes): District 9 has witnessed a 17% decrease in violent crimes compared to the same period last year. This translates to 189 fewer victims of violent crimes in our community this year, offering a safer environment for all.
Crime Against Property (Theft & Vandalism): While there has been a 9% increase in property-related offenses in District 9, it's important to note that this trend is not exclusive to our area or the City of Dallas. The rise in theft and vandalism is a challenge experienced by major metropolitan areas nationwide.
Crime Against Society (Drug Offenses, Weapon Law Violations, & Prostitution Offenses): We're proud to report that District 9 has seen a 3% reduction in crimes against society compared to the previous year, which signifies a commitment to maintaining a safe and harmonious community.

District 9 boasts a significant reduction in violent crimes, narcotics-related offenses, and weapon violations. While we acknowledge a slight increase in motor vehicle theft and vandalism, it's important to understand that this issue extends beyond our district and the city limits. The rise in motor vehicle thefts is a concern shared by metropolitan areas nationwide, as reported in various sources, including this article. The DPD is actively addressing this issue and implementing effective strategies to combat it.

We want to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to the remarkable Dallas Police Department. We are deeply appreciative of the unwavering dedication and expertise of our Police Chief Eddie Garcia, Major Nobles from the Northeast Subdivision, our Northeast Neighborhood Police Officers, and each member of our Dallas Police force. District 9's safety and overall quality of life would not be as exceptional without their relentless commitment. Please join us in showing our appreciation for the DPD and the incredible work they perform each day to ensure our safety and well-being.

Let's continue building on our strong community bonds and look forward to brighter, more secure days in District 9. Together, we can make our neighborhood an even better place to call home.

Statement On Civility

As this Holiday Season draws near, please take a moment to appreciate the blessings in our lives and our community. Let's approach one another with kindness, whether in person, through screens, or online. In our diverse Dallas community, there's no place for hatred or hostility toward our neighbors, friends, or fellow Dallas/East Dallas residents. I urge you to be mindful of this during these special times. Together, as one city, let's uphold the values of respect and civility that we wish to receive ourselves. Take care and be kind!

-Paula

District 9 Day at the Zoo

Please join us for District 9 Day at the Zoo on Saturday, November 11th, where all District 9 residents can receive a complementary ticket courtesy of the Dallas Zoo. Scan the QR code for more details!

(Please note that when you are filling out

the information needed for the zoo tickets , you will see the regular ticket

price for admission, however, you will NOT be charged this amount on the final

checkout screen).

Hope to see you all there!

White Rock Lake Park Master Plan Update Public Meeting Hosted By CM Blackmon

Join Dallas City Council Member Paula Blackmon, #DallasParks Staff, and project consultants on Monday, November 6th to learn more about the White Rock Lake Masterplan update. The public meeting will be held at the Bath House Cultural Center beginning at 6pm.

Acompaña a Paula Blackmon, miembro del Concejo Municipal de Dallas, al personal de #DallasParks y a los asesores del proyecto el lunes 6 de noviembre para obtener más información sobre la actualización del Plan Maestro del Lago White Rock. La reunión pública se realizará en el Bath House Cultural Center a partir de las 6pm.

The White Rock Lake Foundation Presents: The Jewel of Dallas Gala

The Jewel of Dallas Gala presented by The White Rock Lake Foundation will be held on Thursday, November 9, 2023, from 6 to 10pm at the Granada Theater Dallas, 3524 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, TX 75206.

Funds raised from the Gala will be used for the major renovation of Winfrey Point at White Rock Lake. Mark your calendars now and look for additional information, sponsorship opportunities, ticket sales, and live and silent auction opportunities to follow – see you at the Gala!

Bath House Cultural Center Presents: Vibes: Poetry Jam Open Mic

Vibes is an all-ages poetry jam where artists can showcase their poems. The Bath House Cultural Center will create a space for writers and poets to showcase their talents on Friday, November 3, 2023 from 7:00-9:00 PM.

Special thanks to our host B. Randall @thehostbrandall and our featured poet Morgan and guitarist, Abigail Martin!

Bath House Cultural Center Presents: Día De Muertos: A Love Letter for the Departed Art Exhibition

The Bath House Cultural Center presents Día de Muertos: A Love Letter for the Departed, an art exhibition inspired by the Mexican celebration of the Day of the Dead that features the works of close to seventy artists from Texas, Arizona, Oregon, and Mexico.

The tradition of the Day of the Dead is deeply linked to the human desire to stay connected to our loved ones even after they have left. The holiday is a time of celebration and loving remembrance that offers the community an opportunity to honor dear departed relatives and friends in public settings or intimate places. Although we are nowadays more familiar with the massive Día de Muertos celebrations that take place in cemeteries, community venues, and—increasingly more popular these days—in spectacular parades and processions, it is worth paying closer attention to the personal demonstrations of love that occur in more private ways and sites.

The idea of this exhibition is that the celebration allows us to convey a message of persistent love. The show focuses on works of art that are metaphorically or literally used as a love letter for the departed. The pieces of art and altars depict various Day of the Dead themes that are of interest to the artists and many of them include a message of affection in written form. The exhibition reminds the public that although the Día de Muertos festivity is experienced and observed collectively by many people, it is absolutely fascinating to get a glimpse of the less public, yet potent, manifestations of love for the dead that are ever-present during this time of the year.

Event Link: https://bathhouse.dallasculture.org/muertos2023/

Dallas Arboretum

The wait is finally over! Autumn at the Arboretum, presented by Reliant Energy ® , is officially OPEN! Join us September 16th to November 5th as we welcome the Great Pumpkin and the beloved Peanuts gang to this year's themed pumpkin village, It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown™.

Grab your tickets now: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/autumn-at-the-arboretum/

Join us on November 8 from 6-9pm for the opening ceremony to kick off Holiday at the Arboretum, presented by Reliant Energy ®! Get ready for an enchanting evening as we light up the Christmas Village, 12 Days of Christmas Gazebos, the Dazzling Musical Tree, and the entire garden at 7pm with the flip of a giant switch. It's the most magical time of the year, and we can't wait to share it with you.

Grab your tickets now: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/event/holiday-at-the-arboretum-opening-ceremony/

Last Quarter's 311 Service Request Statistics for District 9

Here are our statistics for last quarter's 311 Service Requests for District 9. Be sure to download the OurDallas App so you can submit Service Requests directly from your phone. I want to thank all of our departments for being so effective and responsive to the citizens of Dallas!

OHS Art Exhibition Commemorating National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week

From November 8th - November 17th, Dallas City Hall will be hosting an art exhibition in the lobby commemorating National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week.

The opening reception for the exhibit will be held on Wednesday, November 8th, 2023, at 8:30am in the City Hall Lobby. The event will begin with Mayor Pro Tem Atkins' presentation of Mayor Johnson's

proclamation of NHH Week in Dallas.

For more information, scan the QR code above!

The Dallas Museum of Art Presents: Family Festival

Join us this Saturday, November 4 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for Family Festival: MAKE! Celebrate the power of creativity and all the ways we "MAKE" in this fun-filled day of FREE activities for the entire family. Enjoy art making, interactive family tours, and performances—and have the chance to meet and make alongside local artists!

For the full schedule of events, visit https://www.dma.org/programs/event/family-festival-make-0

FreshStart Employment Program

The FreshStart employment program supports residents affected by the criminal justice system who are ready to re-enter the workforce!

Curious if you qualify? Visit bit.ly/3Q22DAt.

Questions? 📱 214.670.4225 or 📩freshstartemployment@dallas.gov.

Programa de empleo FreshStart

El programa de empleo FreshStart apoya a residentes que han sido afectados por el sistema de justicia penal y que están listos para integrarse a la fuerza laboral. Más información en bit.ly/3Q22DAt.

¿Preguntas? 📱 214.670.4225 o 📩freshstartemployment@dallas.gov

Texas State Parks Day

We're celebrating 100 years of Texas State Parks with FREE entry on Nov. 5!

So many parks to choose from...so many fun things to do! Make your reservation today to reserve a spot at TexasStateParks.org

Dallas Parks & Recreation

Join District 9 staff on Saturday November 4, 2023 at White Rock Lake to plant some trees!

Event Location: 4600 W. Lawther Drive, Dallas, Tx 75214

Dallas Public Library

Every two years, a local poet is honored with the Poet Laureate title and honorarium to recognize a career in writing exemplary poetry and their role in sharing poetry with the greater community. The Dallas Poet Laureate is a liaison, advocate and leader who inspires the diverse residents of Dallas to read, write, perform and appreciate the written and spoken word. If you want to be the next Dallas Poet Laureate, apply today: https://dallaslibrary2.org/.../poetlaureate_guidelines.php Submissions are due Dec. 15.

See you next week for one (or more!) of our great programs! Find the entire calendar at dallaslibrary.org/events

Help us fill backpacks with warm items and toiletries for our unhoused neighbors. Work with friends, family, or coworkers to fill packs with gender neutral items for ADULTS.

Done articulos calientes y Mochillas para nuestro vecinos sin hogar. Reuna suministros para ADULTOS con amigos y familiares.

Dallas Police Department -Northeast Division

Kids Health & Safety Fair

The Northeast Division of the Dallas Police Department will be hosting its Annual Kids Health and Safety Fair on Saturday, November 11, 2023. This year’s fair will be at Lake Highlands High School 9449 Church Rd starting at 10:00am. Our Kids Health and Safety Fair is the best in town, because of the unbelievable support we receive from our neighborhoods and community partners. Last year we had over 4000 citizens attend, and gave away the following: 200 plus turkeys, 300 Bicycle Helmets, and over 300 Coats for Kids. We thank you!!!!

We are excited to announce that at this year Kid’s Health and Safety Fair we are having a drive to collect 500 Coats for kids Campaign. These coats we will be given away on the day of the Kid’s Health and Safety Fair. If your or your neighborhood would like to participate in this effort, contact Senior Corporal Amber Oliver at amber.oliver@dallapolice.gov or phone 214-670-7747.

Some other attractions at this year’s Kids Health and Safety Fair include:

Free Medical Screening
500 Coats for Kids
Free COVID-19 Shots (Provided by-Dallas County Health and Human Services)
Bicycle Rodeo
Bicycle Rodeo (Free bicycle Helmets)
Free Food and drinks all day
In N Out Burger (Free burgers drinks, and chips while supplies last)
Free Ice cream
Face Painting
Dallas Police: K-9, SWAT Vehicle, Helicopter, Motorcycles and much more)
60 plus vendors offering community support
Bounce Houses

Office of Homeless Solutions Updates

R.E.A.L. Time Rehousing

The R.E.A.L. Time Rehousing (RTR) team of homeless service providers, co-led by the Office of Homeless Solutions (OHS) and Housing Forward has successfully rehoused 2,700 (and counting) unique individuals as of October 17, 2023. The City and its partners now have a new goal of housing 6,000 unique individuals by 2025 across the expanse of the metroplex.

Give Responsibly Campaign Outreach Update

The Office of Homeless Solutions and Code Compliance work together to promote the Give Responsibly Campaign (GRC). This initiative aims to prevent street charity and illegal solicitation in the community through education and engagement. While providing alternative solutions for our residents experiencing homelessness.

The Office of Homeless Solutions Community Liaison and Code Compliance Neighborhood Code Representatives are partnering to visit businesses in hot spots across all districts. This joint effort aims to address issues related to homelessness and the adverse effects street charity and illegal solicitation have on the community. It will provide education on sustainably supporting those in need while ensuring a safer and more comfortable environment for businesses and their patrons.

OHS Street Outreach Update

Outreach is currently targeting several encampments, which will result in closure through the housing of those unsheltered individuals throughout the year. The team will outreach to these sites and meet with various persons experiencing homelessness to assess their needs in preparation for site closure via housing. During this time, the OHS Street Outreach Team will continue to engage with unsheltered residents through normal street outreach, connecting people with the needed resources, such as: getting IDs, working with Community Courts on expunging eligible tickets and offenses from their records, identifying medical needs, and getting them access to the Coordinated Access System (CAS). The RTR Community Dashboard is live and may be found here.

October 30 through November 3, 2023. Please note that these will be for debris removal and outreach only. All encampment cleaning requests are being resolved as time and weather allows and are subject to modification in response to special requests by City leadership.

H.A.R.T/eam Update

The Homeless Action Response Team (H.A.R.T/eam) is led by the Office of Homeless Solutions (OHS) and encompasses four teams comprised of a core team of the following: Crisis Intervention Team (CIT), Dallas Animal Services (DAS), Dallas Marshals, and Code Compliance (Code). This team is supplemented by Parks and Recreation, Dallas Fire & Rescue, and Public Works as needed. The purpose of H.A.R.T/eam. is to provide a quick response to immediate safety concerns around homeless encampments and hot spots. To report a critical issue regarding an encampment or panhandling, please submit a service request to 311 or the OurDallas smartphone app.

The teams are assigned and respond to time-sensitive, critical issues received via 311 and via email which are defined as:

Issues raised by City Leadership and members of City Council requests
Issues presenting an immediate safety concern (the presence of firearms, uncontrolled fires, reports of threatening behavior)
Any issues which would derail the normal street outreach service resolution process
Panhandling