Did you know that Preston Hollow People will turn 37 this month? We published our first issue under the name Northside People on August 17, 1989. As we approach middle age, we’re reminiscing about the people, places, and events that have shaped our community’s story. So what was happening in Preston Hollow 30-plus years ago?
The Panther of Preston Hollow
(August 17, 1989)
A live panther found in the bushes at Royal Lane and Inwood Road was too far north to be an escapee from the Dallas Zoo. The over 200-pound cat, named Charo, was the pet of a man who lived near Inwood and Walnut Hill Lane. After his discovery, Charo lunged at a Dallas police officer, who hit the panther on the head with a shotgun before he was transported to the city’s animal control facility. Charo ate some chicken and was relocated to his owner’s ranch. His owner was cited for harboring an exotic animal.
City Exits Babysitting Business
(August 13, 1992)
A U.S. District Judge relieved the Dallas City Council of its parenting duties, holding that a city ordinance which would have eestablished a curfew for children under the age of 17 was unconstitutional. Hockaday senior Peggy Lawlis, who was a student plaintiff in the case, said she was excited by the outcome. The city said it would likely appeal.
Preston Center Parking Meters?
(August 12, 1993)
A plan from the city of Dallas to install parking meters in Preston Center had merchants up in arms. They argued that patrons worried about tickets would simply take their business elsewhere, specifically to places with free, unlimited parking. In the end, members of the Dallas city council didn’t give a dime about the proposal — they turned it down.
North Dallas Secede!
(August 10, 1995)
The source of leaflets urging residents to withdraw from Dallas and form a separate municipality, “The City of North Dallas,” remained unknown. The leaflets listed the names and telephone numbers of two city council members as contacts, but those officials disclaimed knowledge of the plan and didn’t believe secession was a serious proposal.
Sex House Becomes Serene
(August 1, 1996)
Police raided a house on Northmoor Drive and arrested 10 people after discovering that the home was being used as what they described as a full-service sex club and gambling hall. The street reportedly quieted down after officers closed the home, where they said they found evidence of orgy style sex, gambling, and pornographic movies.
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