What in East Dallas is Going On?!

HEMAL OJHA CPA, CIA, MBA, PARTNERHemal brings over 25 years of experience in business, accounting, consulting, and tax planning. A proud UTD alum, she holds an MBA and a Masters in Accounting. Hemal's career includes working with a Fortune 100 company, a Big 4 Accounting firm, and starting several of her own businesses. Outside of work, Hemal is an avid explorer who loves nature and the cosmos. She enjoys traveling to experience new cultures and landscapes, always finding inspiration along the way. When she’s at home, you’ll find her in the garden, tending to her flowers and plants. Hemal also has a keen interest in astrology, fascinated by how the stars align with life's patterns. | E-mail | hemal@moneyzonebusiness.com | Phone | (972) 646-6150Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

This week on "What In East Dallas Is Going On?!", we’re joined by Preston Willms, a Tree Risk Assessment Qualified, Board-Certified Master Arborist, and Municipal Specialist. Preston brings his extensive knowledge from the International Society of Arboriculture to discuss some critical issues affecting our urban forest, including the devastating impact of the Emerald ash borer on our ash trees and the importance of preserving native trees. Whether you’re a tree lover, a concerned citizen, or just curious about the health of our environment, this episode is packed with valuable insights on protecting and maintaining the green spaces that make East Dallas so special. Tune in to learn how you can contribute to the fight against invasive species and promote the health of our local ecosystem.Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

In this episode of What In East Dallas Is Going On?!, we sit down with Matt Wood, a dedicated member of the Exchange Club of East Dallas, to explore the incredible work this civic club has been doing for the community since 1948. With a focus on serving public school children in need, the club implements a variety of programs such as Coats for Kids, Books for Kids, and vision screenings in partnership with the Essilor Vision Foundation.Matt shares insights into the club's comprehensive scholarship program, which supports students through a rigorous application and interview process. Learn how the club's commitment to service, education, and community has positively impacted countless lives in East Dallas. From increasing literacy to preventing child abuse, discover the profound ways the Exchange Club is helping to build a brighter future for local youth. Join us for an inspiring conversation about service, community, and the power of collective action.Join us and the Exchange Club Aug 17th! TWIN TOWERS CELEBRATING DALLAS MAVERICKS GREATS AUGUST 17Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

Changing Lives...One Family At A Time  Givingmas proudly provides families with resources and opportunities they need to improve their lives in a sustainable way.They believe in giving a hand up, not a handout. They are on a mission to change lives one family at time, and it starts with helping those in need take the necessary steps towards self-sufficiency.Tune in to hear all they do for those that need help the most. Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

The markets are producer-only, with the best local produce, meats and cheese, bread and pastries, pickles, jams, specialty foods and more.  In addition, they are proud to include artisans with handmade furniture, toys, clothes, soaps, and more, all made by North Texans. The farmers markets feature all local vendors who come from 150 mile radius of Dallas and all grow or make what they sell at our markets. You will find us rain or shine at either of our locations. Find out more! Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

In this episode of "What In East Dallas Is Going On?!," the Chamber Chicks welcome Wrayanne Williams, a mortgage loan officer at Utopia Mortgage. Wrayanne shares her expertise in providing tailored loan solutions for every financial situation, whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to refinance.At Utopia Mortgage, Wrayanne offers a variety of loan options, including FHA, Jumbo, Conventional, and USDA Loans. Serving clients across Texas, she focuses on areas like downtown Dallas, Fort Worth, and Austin. Specializing in Home Purchase Loans, Wrayanne ensures a smooth and stress-free home buying process, guiding clients to secure the best terms and rates.Wrayanne is dedicated to helping clients achieve their homeownership dreams by building strong relationships and providing exceptional customer service. Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

In this episode of "What In East Dallas Is Going On?!", hosts Rich and Camille sit down with renowned restaurateur Jon Alexis, owner of Dallas staple TJ’s Seafood. Jon shares his journey of expanding his restaurant empire.  Birdie’s Eastside features a 7,000-square-foot patio with a turf play area for kids, mature trees, and shade structures. Tune in to hear Jon’s vision for Birdie’s Eastside, his passion for the Dallas dining scene, and what East Dallas can expect from this exciting new addition!Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

In this episode of "What In East Dallas Is Going On?!", hosts Rich and Camille sit down with the legendary Brandt Wood to explore his illustrious career in the entertainment and hospitality industry. With over twenty-five years of experience, Brandt has been instrumental in creating and developing iconic music venues like Trees, The Green Room, and Gypsy Tea Room in Dallas, as well as the innovative Coyote Drive-In.Brandt shares stories from his groundbreaking national live music program at Harrah’s Entertainment, festival production credits including Trees Outdoor Music Festival and Live at the Drive-In with Jimmy Buffett, and the co-development of the Pilgrimage Music and Cultural Festival in Franklin, Tennessee. He also discusses his current ventures as a principal at Woodhouse, working on entertainment and hospitality projects for prestigious clients.Join us as we delve into Brandt's journey, his impact on the East Dallas music scene, and what he has planned for the future. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about music, entrepreneurship, and the vibrant culture of East Dallas.Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

After more than 30 years in the prison system, Deborah Freeman has learned a few things. Listen up to one of the more important podcasts of the year.  EVENT: Women’s Sense of Awareness Workshop - June 15 @ 1:00 pm - 3:30 pmAttend the Women’s Sense of Awareness Workshop to learn techniques with friends and neighbors in an interactive, fun workshop that will empower and educate YOU on becoming more vigilant and conscientious when it comes to personal safety.Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com

On today's chamber segment is Taber Wetz! Taber is a team leader with hands-on executive experience across finance, strategy, risk management and information technologies. He is committed to solving complex challenges and advancing business strategy, operations, corporate and business development with a high level of energy and enthusiasm. Taber develops meaningful, actionable recommendations for operational improvement. He values building personal relationships and helping others to support and build great teams. Taber is an entrepreneur and strategic thinker with an established record of success in growing small ($1.5M) to midsize ($20M) companies.Connect with us! Instagram - Facebook www.visiteastdallas.comPartner with us! connect@visiteastdallas.com