Staff & Reader Submitted
 
Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Booking a moving service in advance is essential. By following the guidelines mentioned in this article, you can ensure that you secure the services of a reputable moving company and have sufficient time to prepare for your move.

Are you planning a move and wondering when is the best time to book a moving service? It's a common question that many people have when preparing for a move. Let's discuss the ideal timeframe for booking a moving service to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

The Importance of Booking in Advance

Booking a moving service well in advance is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, it guarantees that you will secure the services of a reputable moving company. Moving companies can get booked up quickly, especially during peak moving seasons. By booking early, you can avoid the disappointment of not finding a reliable moving service when you need it most.

Additionally, booking in advance allows you to plan your move more effectively. It gives you ample time to organize your belongings, pack them properly, and make any necessary arrangements. Moving can be a complex process, and having sufficient time to prepare will help ensure that everything goes smoothly on moving day.

How Far in Advance Should You Book?

The ideal timeframe for booking a moving service can vary depending on several factors. Here are some general guidelines to consider:

  1. Peak Season: If you are planning to move during the peak season, which is typically between May and September, it is advisable to book your moving service at least 8-12 weeks in advance. This will give you a better chance of securing your preferred moving dates and ensure that the moving company has availability.

  2. Off-Peak Season: If you are moving during the off-peak season, such as during the winter months, booking your moving service 4-8 weeks in advance should be sufficient. While there may be more availability during this time, it's still important to book early to avoid any last-minute complications.

  3. Local Moves: For local moves, where you are moving within the same city or a short distance away, booking your moving service 2-4 weeks in advance is generally recommended. Local moves tend to have more flexibility in terms of availability, but it's still wise to secure your preferred moving dates ahead of time.

  4. Special Circumstances: If you have specific requirements or unique circumstances for your move, such as moving valuable or fragile items, moving internationally, or needing additional services like packing and unpacking, it's advisable to book your moving service even further in advance. These situations may require more time for planning and coordination.

Booking a moving service well in advance is essential for a smooth and stress-free moving experience. By following the guidelines mentioned above, you can ensure that you secure the services of a reputable moving company and have sufficient time to prepare for your move. Remember, the earlier you book, the better!

If you're in the process of planning a move, don't wait until the last minute. Take the time to research and book a reliable moving service in advance. Your future self will thank you for it!

Premier Designs & Moving specializes in moving services, art installation, and packing and organization. For the past 5 years, Premier Designs & Moving have been securing your valuables and moving them with ease, handling your objects with care, and packing and unpacking your assets so you can focus on the more important aspects of moving. All our packing services are designed to make your move efficient and streamlined. We’re not just any residential moving service, we pride ourselves on providing you with the service you expect from our name. For the best home movers in Dallas, TX, call Premier Designs & Moving at (469) 859-5454.

Sharisa Lewis
Pin on Pinterest

McKinney (March 5, 2024) - The Texas Giving Machines stopped in downtown McKinney in December with thousands of donors giving to charity, especially McKinney's own HUGS Cafe and The Samaritan Inn.

Eight North Texas charities benefited as the Light the World Texas Giving Machine rolled through DFW, reaching thousands of donors. The machines also stopped in Houston and San Antonio, totaling donations nearly $1M in our state.

More than $10.4 million was donated at Giving Machines during the 2023 Christmas season worldwide in 61 locations, a record number — with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covering all the operating costs.

Total charitable donations from North Texas donors were over $630,000. The machines kicked off in DFW with Marie Osmond offering a holiday mini concert in Sundance Square to an audience of over 8,000. Next, the machines stopped in Grapevine, the Christmas Capital of Texas, and finished their tour in downtown McKinney.

Filled with cards representing essential goods and services requested by North Texas charity partners, Giving Machines allowed visitors to make a difference through the simple act of swiping their credit cards and buying something for someone in need.

“The ripple effect of this program is priceless,” Kellie Maynard, CDO of The Samaritan Inn, said. “Giving Machines have brought so much awareness to so many charities in need.”

As a result of the Texas Giving Machine in DFW donations provided:

  • 11,000 chickens
  • 1500 hot showers, lunches for homeless
  • 1500 canine care kits for those experiencing homelessness
  • 1200 new shoes for battered women and children
  • 1100 fresh produce, grocery items
  • 1000 winter coats
  • 900 infant care kits for women rescued from human trafficking
  • 600 veteran kits
  • 500 music classes for adults with disabilities

 

 

“Each number represents a person being fed, clothed, educated and trained,” Karl Cheney, program manager said. “Hundreds of thousands of children will be vaccinated and sheltered, thousands of newborn babies will receive a healthier start, and countless women and men in every corner of the world will have their dignity restored.”

 

This is the first year that the Giving Machines have come to north Texas, which is one of only 61 cities worldwide to host Light the World Giving Machines in 2023. A record 600,000 people made purchases at Giving Machines in November and December 2023 worldwide.

 

The DFW machine benefitted eight charities locally in the metroplex, including:

 

And two global charities:

 

“Overwhelmed. Speechless. Blown away by the response.” These were common responses when the North Texas charities received their 2023 donation checks.

 

Dr. Tonya Stafford, founder of charity ‘It’s Going To Be OK,’ said the Light the World Giving Machine is “truly a reminder that the good we do will outshine the evil.”

 

“I’m overwhelmed with the donation amount and thrilled and excited for this support,” Rebecca Cox, CEO of GRACE Grapevine said. “Our need has grown 40% this past year.”

 

HUGS Founder Ruth Thompson said, “This will help as we are changing lives. The need for special needs employment is so great. This is what God said to do.”

 

The first Giving Machine appeared in 2017 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Total donations since then have exceeded $32 million, with 100% used to fulfill each donor’s selection – all possible because the initiative’s sponsor, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, covers all operational costs.

For more information, go to givingmachine.org. And on social, @TexasGivingMachine

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

The Shelton School Parents' Association (SPA) raised money at the 2024 Stampede benefit auction on March 1 at the Frontiers of Flight Museum. Attendees enjoyed the evening with "Back to the 80s" as the theme. The evening included a cocktail reception, seated dinner, live and big board auctions and musical entertainment by Emerald City.

Auction proceeds go toward improving academics, curriculum programs, arts, athletics, technology, professional development for teachers, our wellness program, security enhancements and tuition assistance. Proceeds also go to the Shelton Endowment Fund and the Shelton Scholarship Fund. Among the items available at the auction were the Ultimate Cowboys experience, including travel for two on the Cowboys team-chartered plane and two tickets to a Cowboys away game, a poker party with former Cowboys running back Emmitt Smith, four tickets to Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour in Amsterdam and more.

2024 Stampede Auction co-chairs were Jennie Jones and Carolyn Strickfaden. Gina Rangel Pena and JoAnna Sudbeck are co-presidents of the 2023-2024 Shelton Parents' Association, which sponsored the event. Shelly Lloyd is Shelton's Director of Volunteer Relations and Events. 

Executive Director Suzanne Stell thanked the parents, volunteers, sponsors and staff who helped make the Stampede a success. "We couldn't do this without everyone," she said. "Our students would not experience the growth or the success they do without the support of what you do on evenings like tonight."

Shelton board member Bill Corrigan, who is father to tenth-grade Shelton student Kiwi and former Shelton student MaeMae, asked the crowd to give a standing donation for the Shelton staff. "This is one of the top schools in the country for children with learning differences," he said. "We love you guys and thank you for all that you do for our school."

Thanks to everyone for creating a successful event and for contributing funds that support Shelton!

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

Easter eggs and baskets. Family gatherings and holiday meals. The only thing to complete a perfect Easter celebration is a delicious dessert so hop on over to your favorite DQ® restaurant in Texas or call today to pre-order a DQ cake for the holiday. 

The legendary cake features Dairy Queen® signature soft serve with a variety of unique Easter designs. Vanilla or chocolate flavors are currently available in an 8-inch or 10-inch cake. Fans can pre-order a DQ Easter Cake from their favorite DQ restaurant in Texas up to 24 hours in advance of the desired pick-up date. 

The Easter Cake is available at participating DQ restaurants in Texas now through March 31.

For more than 75 years, DQ restaurants in Texas have been friendly, gathering spots where fans enjoy delicious treats and eats and create fond memories. To be the first to learn about Blizzard of the Month flavors, new product news from the Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council or find a store location, follow us on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook or visit dqtexas.com.

There are few brands as iconic as the DQ brand. Innovative DQ treats and eats, along with the unique DQ restaurant concepts, have positioned DQ restaurants in Texas as a leader in the quick service restaurant industry. The Texas Dairy Queen Operators' Council is a nonprofit organization made up of DQ franchisees operating in Texas. The Council develops the advertising and marketing program for DQ franchisees in Texas and controls the Texas Country Foods menu along with managing supply/distribution for the nearly 600 DQ restaurants in Texas. The DQ restaurants in Texas are franchised by American Dairy Queen Corporation and the DQ franchise system includes approximately 7,000 franchised locations in the United States, Canada, and more than 20 other countries, including the nearly 600 DQ restaurants in Texas. 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
The Jersey Mike's Team Spring Valley and the Tollw The Jersey Mike's Team Spring Valley and the Tollway with Kris Cumnock, CEO, WOKC; Cindy Brinker Simmons, Founder, WOKC; Dalton Stewart, Texas Area Director and Franchisee

Jersey Mike’s Celebrates 14th Annual “Month of Giving”

 Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer is joining forces with 70 Jersey Mike’s Subs in the Dallas – Fort Worth Metroplex for the 14th annual March “Month of Giving” fundraising campaign to support local charities. During the month of March, customers can make a donation to Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer at participating Jersey Mike’s restaurants. 

The “Month of Giving” campaign will culminate with Jersey Mike’s “Day of Giving” on Wednesday, March 27, when DFW Jersey Mike’s restaurants will give 100 percent of the day’s sales – not just profit – to Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer. “We are profoundly grateful to Jersey Mike’s, their DFW franchisees, and their customers for their kind generosity, treasured partnership, and continued support toward our mission of eradicating pediatric cancer and providing hope for our young children battling this disease,” said WOKC Founder Cindy Brinker Simmons. “Jersey Mike’s has created an astounding culture of giving that has deeply touched the heroic families we serve.”  

For thirteen years, Jersey Mike’s owners and operators throughout the country have raised over $88 million for more than 200 different charities including hospitals, youth organizations, food banks, and more. “We are honored to be associated with Jersey Mike’s and admire their philanthropic mindset. Their commitment to helping us positively impact kids with cancer and their families is an absolute blessing,” said WOKC CEO Kris Cumnock.  

“I would like to extend a personal invitation to you and your family to visit Jersey Mike’s Subs throughout the month of March, and especially on the Day of Giving when 100 percent of sales – every penny – goes to help a great local cause,” said Peter Cancro, Jersey Mike’s founder and CEO, who started the company when he was only 17 years old.  

Join us in March by making donations through Jersey Mike’s mobile app or onsite. On Wednesday, March 27, encourage everyone you know to visit a local Jersey Mike’s to order lunch or dinner or catering and help make a difference for local kids battling cancer. Come eat great food for a great cause!  

About Jersey Mike’s 

Jersey Mike’s Subs, with nearly 2,500 locations nationwide, serves authentic fresh sliced/fresh grilled subs on in-store freshly baked bread — the same recipe it started with in 1956. Passion for giving in Jersey Mike’s local communities is reflected in its mission statement “Giving…making a difference in someone’s life.” For more information, please visit jerseymikes.com or follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/jerseymikes), Instagram (instagram.com/jerseymikes), and Twitter (twitter.com/jerseymikes.com). 

About Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer

Founded in 1980, Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer offers comfort and hope to kids with cancer through support programs that serve the entire family and funds innovative research that leads to new discoveries in the fight against pediatric cancer. For more information, visit www.wokc.org  or follow on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/WipeOutKidsCancer/), Instagram(https://www.instagram.com/wokc/), and Twitter (https://twitter.com/wipeoutkdscancr).

Photo by Rob Wythe/Wythe Portrait Studio

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
*Beanie Newman (Co-Chair), Rebecca Lopez (Emcee),

The 14th Annual Symphony of Chefs was held on Monday, February 26 at Armstrong Fieldhouse at SMU. Event Chairs Beanie & Martin Newman, along with Honorary Chef Chairs Justin Box, Private Chef, Consultant and Restaurateur, and Luke Rogers, Executive Chef & Owner of Beckley 1115, were the driving forces behind this year’s ultimate chef-driven culinary dinner experience benefitting KidLinks. Notable supporters in attendance included Cristi & Kevin Ryan, Christie and Elbert Choi, Bonnie and Nathan Shea, Lisa and Stuart Sides, and Georgia and Marc Lyons. 

 

Hamilton A Sneed of HAS Events was the visionary behind this culinary concept, which had DJ Steffi Burns spinning tunes as guests entered through draped curtains, revealing tables placed throughout SMU’s practice course setting the scene for a lively evening of culinary composition. The evening kicked off with The Rayleigh Underground providing delicious hors d’oeuvres during the cocktail reception. The reception was followed by a seated dinner where over 20 of Dallas’ most notable chefs prepared a unique four-course dinner tableside for guests with wine pairings from some of the world’s best vineyards. 

 

In addition to Honorary Chef Chairs Justin Box and Luke Rogers, participating chefs included Aaron Collins, Chef de Cuisine of Cafe Momentum; Luca Corazzina, Executive Chef of Ellie’s Restaurant & Lounge; Eric Dreyer, Executive Chef of Monarch Restaurant; Miriam Jimenez, General Manager & Partner of Miriam Cocina Latina; Henry Johnson, Executive Chef of Bistro 3; Jennie Kelley, and Brandon Moore, Chef/Owners of Fond; John Kleifgen, Executive Chef of Nick & Sam’s Steakhouse; Dan Landsberg, Executive Chef of The Texas Barn at Circle T Ranch; Kevin Martin, Chef de Cuisine of TERRA; Giuliano Matarese, Chef & Restaurateur of Miss Pasta; Michael Matis, Chef de Cuisine of Fearing’s Restaurant; Nikky Phinyawatana, Chef & Founder of Asian Mint Restaurant Group; Janice Provost, Chef & Owner of Parigi; Anastacia Quiñones-Pittman, Executive Chef of José; Jeramie Robison, Director of Culinary & Executive Chef of Thompson Dallas; Rodman Shields, Culinary Director of Milkshake Concepts; Jordan Swim, Owner of Vestals Catering; and Leo Ramirez, Sous Chef of Dee Lincoln Prime. Following the coursed meal, Featured Pastry Chef Jill Bates of Sugar & Sage Bakery created masterful desserts as an end note to the evening. 


WFAA’s Rebecca Lopez served as the evening’s emcee and introduced Bob Enriquez, who shared how music therapy sessions provided by KidLinks had impacted his great-grandson, Lucas, who was born with Myotonic Dystrophy which affects the facial muscles making it difficult to form and pronounce words and consequently, he had been essentially non-verbal. Thanks to KidLinks, 8-year old Lucas is now speaking in complete sentences and his family has hope for continued development. Funds raised from this event will support KidLinks efforts to provide healing, hope and happiness for children with special challenges through music and media. Learn more at www.kidlinks.org

 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
David Andrews, Christmas Tree Chair; Kunthear Mam-Douglas, Scott Pharr

Bryan’s House Family Holiday Celebration featured take-home three-to-four-foot-tall custom Christmas trees, a Toy Drive, candy canes and toys and stockings filled with goodies for every child.        

Hosted by Ann and Todd Nelson at Venture X – Braniff Centre, Dallas, the event was chaired by Regina Bruce and Dr. Carla Russo and sponsored by the Lone Star Monarchs.        

Regina said, “This was a wonderful opportunity to share laughter and joy with the kids and families served at Bryan’s House this year.  We all helped bring heartfelt holiday cheer to 100 families.”       

Chaired by David Andrews of TerraMai Reclaimed Wood, the Christmas Tree Project featured 110 Christmas trees decorated in colorful and fanciful themes decorated by 51 donors. Each family took home at least one Christmas tree.  See list below. The Toy Drive was chaired by Adam Bernal, Kirby Phelps and Ronni Nicole Pierce.       

Each family had the opportunity to have their photo with Santa, lunch donated by Jeanne Lewis and Jersey Mike’s, dozens of holiday-decorated cookies and milk, along with all of the special treats mentioned above. The children’s smiles abounded as all in all, it was a lovely, fun and joyful day in the spirit of celebrating the holidays.  

The committee included Rick Adams, Sharon Adams, Anna Berman, Scout Dawson, Kristi Eakin Hall, Jeanne Lewis, Bodii Lim, Kunthear Mam-Douglas, Glenn Morrill, Diane Moten, John Pickett, Shayema Rahim, Elizabeth Smith and Cindi Tesseneer.       

Bryan’s House representatives included Stefani Held, Founder; Dr. Keith Mankin, Board Chair; Sandra Amaya, Maria Castro, LaQuasha Cook, Dalia Fuetes, Marilyn Quinones, Michelle Ramirez, Debra Rodriguez and Diana Tellez. 

To learn more about Bryan’s House, visit the website for more details at www.BryansHouse.org


Christmas Tree Project Donors:  97W Design, Jennifer Bell, Anna Berman, Debbie Brackenridge, Brookhaven College, Regina Bruce, Coeval Studio, Chad Collum and Steve Kemble, Corgan, Cross Architects, Dallas Eagle, EDG Design, ENTOS Design, Gensler, GFF, Go Studio, GUIDE Architecture, Mark Steven Hayes, HOK, Jacobs, Keaton Interiors, Corey Lark, Lone Star Monarchs, Kunthear Mam-Douglas and Edward Douglas, Melrose Design Haus, Monsieur Holiday and Couture, Diane Moten, Debbie Murray, Lisa Nault, The Nielsen Collection, Perkins and Will, Scott Pharr, Preston Hollow Women’s Club’s Marvelous Mahjong Group, Pretty Lovely Affair, QPC Finish, Shayema Rahim, David Roberts, Cindy Ryan, Elizabeth Smith, Smith Group, Studio 11 Design, Studio B Design Group, TerraMai Reclaimed Wood, Marrisa and Chris Tindell, Brett Turner, US Surfaces, Verona Marble Company, Rachel Williams and Andre Yabin.

About Bryan’s House: The mission of Bryan’s House is to provide children with special needs and their families with trusted case management, educational, therapeutic, and medically-supported care.  www.BryansHouse.org

About Lone Star Monarchs:  To inspire and nurture the human spirit, as together, we build an effective network of individuals and organizations to support a broad spectrum of charitable organizations in Dallas and throughout Texas. Lone Star Monarchs’ (LSM) purpose is exclusively educational and charitable to connect people and enrich lives.

LSM welcomes all people who value our mission. We are committed to inclusive environments of diverse individuals, organizations and communities. We promote volunteerism and a spirit of service.

LSM has no paid employees. All contributions and funds raised go to LSM services and grants for our service partners.  www.lonestarmonarchs.org

 Photos by Thomas Garza and Duke Morse

Jians Media
Pin on Pinterest

In a spirit of unity and cultural celebration, the Asian Culture And Education Society USA in Dallas, Texas recently marked the observance of both Black History Month and Lunar Chinese New Year with a series of heartwarming initiatives and festive events. The society's endeavors aimed not only to honor the diverse cultural heritage of its members but also to spread joy and inclusivity within the community.

As part of their celebrations, the Asian Culture And Education Society USA extended a hand of kindness to the special education children at a local elementary school. Members of the society prepared and distributed red envelopes filled with a delightful assortment of treats including pizzas, toys, goodies, and snacks, along with candies symbolizing the joy and prosperity associated with the Lunar Chinese New Year. This gesture of goodwill brought smiles to the faces of the children and demonstrated the society's commitment to fostering inclusivity and compassion.

The festivities culminated in an annual celebration party hosted by the Asian Culture And Education Society USA. The event served as a vibrant showcase of Asian culture and traditions, featuring a variety of performances and activities for the community to enjoy. Attendees were treated to mesmerizing displays of traditional music, dance, and theatrical performances, which highlighted the richness and diversity of Asian heritage. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a shared appreciation for cultural diversity.

Apart from the annual celebration party, the ACAESUSA's Youth Council  special performances for the wider community, actively participating in the events by volunteering and showcasing their talents. These performances were a means to bridge cultural gaps and foster cross-cultural understanding. Through music, dance, and various artistic expressions, the society endeavored to involve and enlighten the community about the beauty and significance of Asian culture.

During these events, we're deeply grateful for the help from Ni Hao, UCA, Gendap, Dallas City Library, the Dallas Police Department, Cesar Chavez Learning Center and TC-2 Mr.Gipson's class. We're truly fortunate to have their support.

Several awards were presented during the event, including the Inspirational ACAESUSA Mentor Award to Gendap President Mrs. Beverly Hill, and Mr. Jay Ho. The AAPI Media Excellence Award was bestowed upon Hojun Choi and Tiffany Liou, while the Inspirational AAPI Leader Award went to Yosselin Muller and Youth Volunteer and Youth Leadership Awards were presented to Eric Wang, Jessica Wu, Amy Xu and Harris Xie.

The Asian Culture And Education Society USA's celebration of Blank History Month and Lunar Chinese New Year exemplifies the power of community and cultural exchange. Through acts of kindness, festive gatherings, and vibrant performances, the society succeeded in spreading joy, fostering inclusivity, and celebrating the rich tapestry of Asian heritage. As the celebrations come to a close, the spirit of unity and cultural appreciation will continue to resonate within the community, leaving a lasting impact on all who participated.

Contact:

Jan XIe

President of  Asian Culture And Education Society USA

2148102718

janxie@acaesusa.org

 

 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Courtesy of WellMed

Thirty-five-year-old Drew Rosiles was very busy. Spending time with his fiancée and traveling extensively for work left little time to worry about this health, so when he started experiencing some troubling symptoms, he reasoned them away.

"For two weeks, I had tunnel vision, tingling sensations and occasional chest pain," Drew recalled. He attributed it to fatigue. Driving home one day, the symptoms were so severe he worried he was endangering others by being on the road, so he pulled over and decided to schedule an appointment to see his primary care physician, Dr. Anis Ansari.

At the doctor visit, Simm Kapkeo, one of the certified medical assistants (CMA) at WellMed at Hebron in Carrollton, Texas, conducted Drew’s assessment. Simm recognized the urgency in Drew's symptoms, and after an initial review of his EKG, he knew something was seriously wrong.

"I acted on instinct," Simm said. "I knew something wasn't right."

Though Dr. Ansari was with another patient, Simm realized this could not wait.

"When I saw the abnormal EKG, I knew it was critical," Simm recalled. He politely knocked on the door and asked Dr. Ansari to review the EKG results.

Dr. Ansari's composed-yet-grave tone while he shared the diagnosis of a full heart blockage hit Drew hard. "Your heart rate is at 38 beats per minute," Dr. Ansari revealed. "I've called your parents to come get you; you can't drive."

Drew's mind raced with panic as he thought about his fiancée and the uncertain road ahead. "The seriousness hit me," he recalled. His parents drove him to Baylor, Scott & White Heart Hospital in Plano, where he was immediately admitted and taken into surgery.

The whirlwind continued as Drew underwent heart surgery and received a pacemaker.

"I feared the unknown," Drew confessed. "But the medical team's support eased my worries." Simm's compassionate hug and reassurance had a strong impact. "He knew I was scared," Drew gratefully acknowledged.

Life post-surgery brought adjustments — including limits on lifting and being extra cautious in certain environments. His work in environmental health safety requires him to avoid places and items with high magnetic fields, making lifestyle changes such as refraining from using headphones, wearing his watch on his right wrist and using his phone on his right ear or speakerphone.

"I've had to adapt," Drew admitted. "But the support from friends and my caring medical team made it manageable."

This experience changed me," Drew said. "It amplified my respect for health care professionals and the importance of regular health check-ups." His advice to others facing similar health concerns? "Don't delay seeking help. Trust your instincts and communicate openly with your health care provider,” he said. “This journey has been a testament to the importance of listening to your body and the incredible impact of timely care.”

His story is one of strength, thankfulness and the priceless impact of a caring health care team.

Today, Drew remains grateful.

"This journey taught me to prioritize health and cherish every moment," he said. "I owe my life to the remarkable care from WellMed and Simm Kapkeo."

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

Artist Tom Hoitsma, widely known for his large-format gestural abstract paintings, found inspiration for his new metal wall sculptures in the wreckage left by a devastating tornado, which tore through his Dallas neighborhood in October 2019. With 140 mile per hour winds, the super-charged tornado ripped through old Preston Hollow, including Hoitsma’s street, leaving a path of destruction and debris. 

While on a walk with his 12-year-old daughter the morning after the tornado, Hoitsma witnessed a couple standing in front of what was left of their home. The roof was gone and only a few exterior walls were still standing. The only structure left was an interior wall with a white door (the exterior walls to that room were gone) that the couple and their two daughters huddled against during the storm. They survived without a scratch, and Hoistma couldn't help noticing an odd, almost joyful euphoria about them. They had survived against the odds and were somehow given a chance to rebuild. 

“We have all seen images of this kind of destruction in the media but to walk the neighborhood the next morning and see the destruction with my own eyes was completely surreal and deeply disturbing,” Hoitsma said. “That moment got me thinking about how humans are so resilient. We see this again and again from every corner of the world. Events in our lives can destroy our neighborhoods or break our hearts, but somehow, we are not defeated.” 

From the debris left by the destruction, beauty was created. It became Hoitsma’s mission to take whatever mangled material he could find and create something new that was vibrant and beautiful. His abstract sculptures symbolize how our hearts get bumped, bruised and battered but remain full of hope and joy. The sculptures represent the change from tragic life events to finding joy once again, with use of the twisted metal to create the perfect metaphor.

“This work, born of the tragedy and loss, is an examination of how we are able to create joy from unimaginable heart break, and the unstoppable resiliency of the human spirit,” he added.   

The first few of the abstracted “heart shaped” metal wall sculptures were constructed from the debris found following the tornado, however, Hoitsma now uses his own metals that mimic the original scrap debris after realizing the limitations of the found metals. Constructed of aluminum and finished with automotive paint, they are 100 percent weatherproof and can be placed in any indoor or outdoor living area. Pricing and additional detail can be found here.

Hoitsma is also well known for his large-format gestural abstract paintings on canvas, which now are available by commission or through galleries where he is represented around the United States, including: Dallas, Los Angeles, Seattle, Denver, Chicago, Florida, Massachusetts and New Jersey. In addition to his metal wall sculptures and paintings, Tom is experienced in documentary filmmaking and has produced a variety of award-winning music television series including the documentary series, “The Texas Music Scene,” which continues to air throughout the country. For more information, please visit https://tomhoitsma.com/.