October Neighborhood Newsletter

Get ready for our annual National Night Out block party Oct 7th! We've also got some upcoming general meetings, VPNA Board Nominations & Election, and our Halloween House Contest! Read our E-newsletter for more information

Howdy Neighbors,

Get ready for our biggest event of the year, National Night Out! We've got some upcoming general meetings, VPNA Board Nominations & Election, our Halloween House Contest, and local fall events to check out. Dive in for more!


National Night Out 2025 - October 7th @ 6-9pm

Mark your calendars for our annual neighborhood National Night Out Against Crime Block Party on Tuesday, October 7th from 6:00 pm- 9:00pm. It will be on Glencoe between Miller and Willis. This is a great way to meet new neighbors and reconnect with others.

Stop by and enjoy live music from one of our long-time NNO favorites - Salim Nourallah, Pie Tap Pizza, beer, local artisans and shop vendors, and VPNA merchandise. We'll also have face painting and a Kids Corner with activities to entertain all our littlest residents.

Be sure to bring cash or credit cards for the raffle tickets and other items for purchase!

📱 We Need Volunteers!

To make this year's National Night Out truly special, we need your help! We're looking for enthusiastic volunteers who can lend a hand in various ways to ensure the event runs smoothly and everyone has an unforgettable time.

Whether you have a few hours to spare or can commit to the entire event, your support is invaluable. Here are some ways you can get involved: 

Can't make it?

Consider donating to the neighborhood to help with future events like this!


National Night Out - Sponsors spotlight!

We are excited to gather as a community for this year’s National Night Out Block Party! This special evening of fun, food, and neighbors coming together wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of our sponsors.

Thanks to their generous donations—whether raffle prizes, supplies, or financial contributions—we’ll enjoy a night filled with activities, delicious treats, and exciting giveaways. Their support truly helps strengthen the spirit of our neighborhood.

Please join us in showing appreciation to our sponsors and be sure to stop by the raffle table during the event for a chance to win some fantastic prizes!

Prizes, vendors, and sponsorships:


Make a Difference in Vickery Place: Join Our Neighborhood Board!

Are you passionate about our community? Do you have fresh ideas to make Vickery Place even better? We need YOUR energy and enthusiasm on our Neighborhood Association Board!

Why Join?

  • 🏡 Directly impact the place you call home
  • đŸ€ Connect with like-minded neighbors
  • 🌟 Gain valuable leadership experience
  • 💡 Bring your unique skills to the table

What We Do:

  • Plan exciting community events
  • Create informative newsletters
  • Collaborate with city representatives
  • Spearhead neighborhood improvements

Time Commitment:

Just 2-3 hours a month! We're looking for dedicated individuals who can:

  • Attend monthly board meetings
  • Participate in general meetings
  • Help with events (e.g., National Night Out, Wine Walk, Rally in the Alley, Tree Plantings, Storm the Drains)
  • Contribute to our newsletter

How to Get Involved:

  1. Nominations open in October
  2. Elections held in November
  3. 13 board positions available

Interested or have questions? Contact us at [email protected] or fill out the survey below!

Join us in shaping the future of Vickery Place. Your neighborhood needs YOU!

The Vickery Place Neighborhood Association is a 501(c)(3) certified non-profit organization and as such has specific requirements for operation and election.


Board Nominations & Upcoming General Meeting

Make sure to mark your calendars and prepare to have your voice heard!

We will be hearing Nominations for the 2026 VPNA Board at the October General Meeting on October 22.

This is your opportunity to take an active role in shaping our community's future. Your participation is crucial, and together, we can continue to build a more robust, livelier neighborhood. We'll see you at the meeting!

Are you interested in getting involved? Email us at [email protected] with any questions or to nominate yourself!


Pet Of The Month - Edwin

This month's VPNA Pet of the Month is Edwin! This adorable pup will be receiving free passes to Barking Hound Village from our neighbors, Lisa & Jeremy Jones, who have lived in Vickery Place for 16 years.

Edwin is a 10-year-old husky mix. He was adopted from a shelter during Will's college years at SMU and has lived his entire life in Dallas. Edwin moved to the M streets in November 2024 after we got married and bought our first home together. He loves living here and watching over the neighborhood through our front windows. Edwin sometimes goes by Eddie, Freddie or Franklin, but he'll answer to anything if you have food. His favorites include Cheez-Its, bacon, and Burger House tots. Eddie also loves stopping by the treat box at the corner of Glencoe and Vickery. Edwin is an only child, and it shows--just ask us about our VEG bills. He's the definition of spoiled, but we wouldn't have it any other way. 

-Will & Caitlin McNamara (Willis Ave)

If you see this cutie by the neighborhood treat box, be sure to say "hi" and congratulate him on winning October Pet of the Month!


Nominate a Pet to win Pet of the Month below:

Click the link below to nominate a pet to be featured in a future newsletter! Please refrain from submitting if you've already won.


More About our Pet of the Month Sponsor: Barking Hound Village

Barking Hound Village is proudly owned and operated by our neighbors, Lisa and Jeremy Jones. Barking Hound Village provides upscale, loving care across three Dallas boutique locations, offering customizable boarding, daycare, and spa services, backed by a dedicated team and strict health protocols. They strive to provide the ultimate experience for both dogs and their owners!

Services & Rates

Boarding (2025 rates)

  • Private Suites start at $70/night; additional dogs: +$40 for 2nd, +$10 each thereafter.
  • VIP Suites start at $95/night; +$35 for 2nd dog, +$10 thereafter.
  • House food option: $4/day/dog.
  • Extended-stay discounts: 10% off for ≄12 nights, 15% for ≄21 nights
  • Holiday/peak surcharge: $5 per dog/night; cancellation deposits and deadlines vary

Daycare (2025):

  • $45 per suite/day; second dog in same suite $35; additional dogs $10 each.
  • Monday–Friday admissions, reservations required by 11 AM; 48‑hour cancellation policy applies

Bathing:

  • Available to boarding/daycare clients; priced by breed, size, coat type, condition, and time

Health, Safety & Requirements

  • Dogs must be at least 4 months old and ≄10 lb; spayed/neutered unless under six months.
  • BHV does not accept terminally ill, late-stage illness, diabetic, or epileptic dogs—or certain breeds (e.g. Pit Bulls, Bull Terriers, Dogo Argentino); behavioral screening may apply
  • Vaccination requirements: rabies, DHLP, parvo, fecal exam, Bordetella, all administered ≄48 hours before check-in
  • Dogs must be healthy with no contagious illness exposure in the past 30 days

📅 Hours & Contact Info

LocationAddressPhoneHours
Cedar Springs5922 Cedar Springs Rd214‑350‑8811M–F 7:30 AM–8 PM; Sat 8–2; Sun 2–7 bhvtexas.com+4bhvtexas.com+4bhvtexas.com+4
Central (Dyer)5605 Dyer St469‑941‑4242Same hours as above
Lake Highlands7610 Greenville Ave214‑890‑9778Same hours as above
BHV

Yard of the Month - 5411 Vickery Blvd

Marcy and Jim Wright of 5411 Vickery joined Vickery Place in 2021 after 25 years in Lakewood, and they’ve wasted no time making their mark. Their shady front yard wasn’t the most welcoming to their St. Augustine grass, so instead of forcing it, they embraced the challenge. With the help of lawn professionals, they created a design that feels fresh, sustainable, and perfectly suited to their home.

The yard now shows off clean lines and a mix of plants that thrive in Texas heat. Liriope and feather grass bring texture and movement, while lantana adds cheerful pops of color. A graceful Japanese maple anchors the space and offers seasonal beauty. Together, the plantings create a welcoming landscape that’s easy on the eyes—and easy on water use, too.

For now, the Wrights are focused on helping the new landscape settle in, with exciting plans to add even more color and variety come spring. It’s already a beautiful transformation and a wonderful example of how smart choices can bring out the best in a yard. Congratulations to Marcy and Jim—our October Yard of the Month!

We’d also like to thank Northaven Gardens for contributing a $50 gift card to the winners.  

Yard of the Month Sponsor Spotlight: North Haven Gardens

We’re proud to recognize North Haven Gardens as the official sponsor of our Yard of the Month program! Located just a short drive from Vickery Place, North Haven Gardens has been a trusted Dallas staple since 1951, offering an exceptional selection of plants, garden supplies, and expert advice tailored to North Texas landscapes.

Why visit North Haven Gardens?

  • Discover a wide range of native and heat-tolerant plants, perfect for our climate.
  • Attend free gardening classes, DIY workshops, and seasonal events hosted year-round.
  • Explore the Garden Coach program for one-on-one help with your landscape or garden layout.
  • Visit Ralph & Rose Cafe inside the nursery to try their floral-forward Bouquet Brew—where lavender, rose, and vanilla swirl together in smooth cold brew for a refreshingly elegant pick-me-up while you shop!

Whether you’re revamping your yard, looking for planting inspiration, or just want a peaceful stroll among vibrant blooms, NHG is a must-visit.

📍 Visit them at 7700 Northaven Road or online at nhg.com for event calendars, planting guides, and expert tips!

Let’s support the local businesses that help make Vickery Place beautiful!

Events & Workshops | Grow With Us at North Haven Gardens
Explore events at North Haven Gardens! Join workshops, seasonal celebrations, and expert-led classes to grow your garden knowledge.

Spooky House Contest

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Give our neighborhood a scary good reason to walk the blocks, get to know neighbors and enjoy some serious creativity! The VPNA Board will award TWO prizes for the most Halloween-spirited front yard. The 1st prize winner will choose either $250 of wine or $150 in cash. The second prize winner will receive a $100 gift card. Both earn recognition in the VPNA newsletter!


State Fair of Texas 2025

Big Tex is back and ready to welcome Dallas for 24 days of fried food, rides, music, and Texas pride! From Sept 26 – Oct 19, Fair Park transforms into the state’s biggest tradition, and this year’s fair packs in plenty of new reasons to visit.

2025 Dates, Hours & Admission

  • Dates: Sept 26 – Oct 19, 2025
  • Hours: Sunday–Thursday 10 a.m.–9 p.m. | Friday–Saturday 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
  • General Admission: Adults $19–$29 | Kids/Seniors $14–$24; Online “FLEX” tickets (select your day) cost ~$29.
  • Season Passes: $52 digital | $60 hard card (includes bring-a-friend ticket + Texas Discovery Gardens access)
  • Parking: $30 official fairground lots | Free DART Green Line service to Fair Park

Discount Deals

Want to save a little extra at the Fair this year? Here’s what you should know before heading to Fair Park:

  • Tuesdays & Thursdays = Dr Pepper Value Days Buy your tickets online in advance and use the Big Tex Insider code to get admission for just $12 (vs. $19–$29). 👉 Important: this deal is online only — it does not apply at the gate.
  • After 5 PM Every Day Everyone pays the child price for admission after 5:00 p.m. — no code needed.
  • Feed the Need Wednesdays Bring 5 canned goods for the North Texas Food Bank and get in for $7.
  • Thrifty Thursdays Along with the $12 admission deal, select food vendors offer smaller portions or signature favorites at reduced coupon prices.

 State Fair Secrets – What the Regulars Know

  • Coupons Never Expire – If you’ve got extras from last year, bring them! You can spend or swap them at Guest Relations — no need to waste money buying all new ones.
  • Tuesday is Ride Day – Every Tuesday, most Midway rides are only 4 coupons (kids’ rides are 3 coupons). Huge savings if you’re there for the rides.
  • Best Parking Hack – Skip the $30 official lots by riding DART’s Green Line straight to Fair Park. It drops you off steps from the entrance and saves both money and time sitting in traffic.
  • Free Gardens Access – If you buy a season pass, you also get complimentary admission to the Texas Discovery Gardens inside Fair Park — a calm break from the crowds.
  • Sensory-Friendly Mornings – Every Wednesday morning, lights and sounds on the Midway are toned down for a more relaxed experience — great for families who need a quieter environment.
  • Hidden Food Finds – Some of the best eats aren’t in the flashy booths. Longtime fair fans swear by the smaller stands tucked behind the Midway or near the livestock barns — usually cheaper, shorter lines, and just as tasty.
  • After 5 PM Strategy – Lines for Fletcher’s Corny Dogs and the Ferris Wheel shrink noticeably in the evening, and your entry ticket drops to the child price. Win-win.
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It’s Fall Y’all!

Autumn at the Arboretum (Sept 20 – Nov 2)

Fall in Dallas isn’t complete without a visit to the Arboretum’s famous Pumpkin Village. This year’s theme, ÂĄMundo MĂ©xico!, brings over 110,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squash arranged into stunning displays inspired by Mexican culture and Oaxacan art. Kids can wander through pumpkin houses and larger-than-life installations, while adults will love the photo ops and seasonal gardens.

Special highlights include:

  • Pumpkins & Pints – On select evenings from 6–9 PM, enjoy the Pumpkin Village lit up at night, paired with craft beer, wine, local bites, music, and folkloric dancing.
  • Goblins in the Garden – On October 24–25, families are invited to dress in costume for safe trick-or-treating, games, and Halloween fun right inside the pumpkin displays.
  • Tips for visiting: Timed tickets are recommended, especially on weekends. Parking is $12 if reserved online, $15 at the gate. Arboretum members enjoy free parking and other perks.

https://www.dallasarboretum.org/autumn-at-the-arboretum/

Cool Thursdays Fall Concerts at the Arboretum

Experience sunset concerts in a garden setting. Gates open at 6 PM, performances 7–9 PM. Food is available via pre-order; you may bring your own wine/beer (with a $5 corkage fee). Arboretum members get free parking (2 vehicles), but non-members must purchase parking separately.

The Arboretum’s Cool Thursdays Concert Series runs through fall, mixing national tribute acts and crowd favorites.

Fall Concert Line Up

  • Oct 2: Red – A Taylor Swift Tribute ★ Premium
  • Oct 9: Boy Band Review (Sponsored by Slalom)
  • Oct 16: Greggie and the Jets ★ Premium (Sponsored by HilltopSecurities)
  • Oct 23: Seger System – Bob Seger Tribute
  • Oct 30: Dancing Dream – ABBA Tribute Band ★ Premium
  • Nov 6: Emerald City ★ Premium (Sponsored by United Pickleball Association)

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden+2Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden+2

Dallas Farmers Market – Pumpkin Day 🎃 (Oct 4–5)

 The Dallas Farmers Market is also bringing the fall spirit with its annual Pumpkin Day celebration. This two-day festival features live music, kids’ activities, cooking demos, and rows of vibrant pumpkins straight from Rubel’s Farm, one of the market’s longest-standing farm vendors. With more than 25 pumpkin varieties on display, you’ll find everything from carving classics to colorful heirlooms.

Bring the whole family for photos, stock up on fall produce, and grab lunch from local food stalls while you’re there. It’s one of the best ways to kick off October right in the heart of Dallas.

For more info on Pumpkin Day and Fall events throughout the month - https://dallasfarmersmarket.org/event-calendar/


Prince St. Pizza Brings a Taste of NYC to Henderson Avenue

New York’s famous Prince St. Pizza is landing right on our doorstep mid-October, taking over the former Fireside Pies space at 2820 N. Henderson Ave. Known for its thick Sicilian “SoHo squares” and the cult-favorite Spicy Spring slice with pepperoni cups and fra diavolo sauce, Prince St. is going beyond just recipes. They’re installing a special filtration system to replicate the exact chemistry of New York City’s water so the dough in Dallas tastes and bakes like it does in SoHo — crusty edges, airy interior, and all.

The new spot will focus on walk-in slices and whole pies, making it an easy stop for families grabbing dinner on the way home or for professionals squeezing in a quick bite between meetings. Its late hours — open until midnight most nights and as late as 3 or 4 a.m. on weekends — mean it doubles as a late-night option after a night on Henderson. Expect a lively, casual vibe where neighbors can pop in for a slice or meet up with friends without a big reservation.

With authentic NYC flavor, flexible hours, and a prime location, Prince St. Pizza is set to add a fresh (and tasty) layer to the neighborhood’s already vibrant food scene.


VPNA Book Club

Welcome to the VPNA book club. We are a once-a-month group that meets on the 2nd Thursday of every month. We LOVE to have new members!

Please consider coming, even if you don't finish the book.

Book for October- The Farm House, by Chelsea Conradt

Book for November - The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel.

We meet at 6:45pm.  Below is a link to RSVP.  You'll only get one more email each month the week before we meet.  If you have book suggestions to add to the list, please include them in the RSVP sheet next to your name. 

The hosting rotates through the group, but no one is required to host.

We hope to see you soon!

Book Club
About the VPNA book club, we are a once-a-month group that meets on the 2nd Thursday of every month. We read fiction (so far) and books are selected during the meetings. We nominate books and select the next two at each meeting. We accept new members, so if you’ve never

District 14 - News from the Desk of Paul Ridley

Here are some upcoming events and other info in and around District 14!

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