Porch philosophers

Before many households are stirring, the early-morning dog walkers have hit the streets of Pine Shadows. Connected by their canines, neighbors Cherryll Frick, Court Greer, Hank Lee, David Hoffman and George Hawkins gathered on Mary Maxey’s porch several years ago to discuss sports, politics and good old-fashioned neighborhood gossip over a cup of coffee while their dogs romped. The morning meeting spot was alternately referred to as the Canine Coffee Klatch, Mary’s Dog Park, or simply “The Porch” until 2015 when Court constructed a water-bowl holder for dogs that dubbed the gathering spot “Starbarks.” At Christmas 2016, the group teased that Mary’s outdoor Christmas lights made “Starbarks” look like a cantina. Since cocktail hour is frequently embraced on The Porch, as a surprise for Christmas 2017, Court created a chili pepper-shaped Feliz Navidad sign cementing the cantina status. Patrons gathered for the unveiling and to celebrate the season with taquitos, guacamole, salsa, and, of course, margaritas.

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