2016 August Preston Hollow

Photo by Justin Bender, Skydive Spaceland Dallas

BRAKING FOR PEDESTRIANS

NEW BLOOD NEEDED TO ENSURE CROSSING THE STREET ISN’T A BLOOD SPORT

We were standing at a crosswalk, not one with a light but one with a “yield to pedestrians” sign, waiting to cross the street.

A car on the opposite side stopped immediately, the driver making eye contact with us so we knew it was safe. But the car in the lane nearest us kept coming and coming, finally blowing through the crosswalk with barely a glance in our direction.

I can’t say I was particularly shocked; this type of thing happens regularly in Dallas. Speaking as a driver, I understand why, too: Historically, there have been so few pedestrians in Dallas, it’s a shock when one pops up.

In Boston, though, it’s a different story. As one driver blew through the crosswalk, the driver on the other side sent a harsh look in the direction of the offender and an apologetic look toward us.

And therein lies the difference between Boston, one of the country’s great walking cities, and Dallas, which from time to time claims to be so. Boston’s traffic culture is hardwired to protect walkers, even encourage them, while Dallas’ traffic culture is more along the lines of the cult movie “Death Race 2000.”

In Boston, crosswalks are everywhere, they’re all well-marked, and they practically beg people to cross the street. In Dallas, we have more of an “I dare you” attitude toward pedestrians — good luck finding a convenient, well-marked crosswalk, and Godspeed getting across.

Also, the timing on Boston’s crosswalk signs can be almost hilariously

Rick Wamre

long — more than a couple of times, a walk signal seemingly lasted 30 seconds on a secondary road, with major intersection times even longer. Here in Dallas, I’ve stepped into an intersection the instant the walking dude flashed on, only to see the “Don’t Walk” indicator flashing literally one second later. Not exactly that Texas hospitality we brag about.

Historically, there have been so few pedestrians in Dallas, it’s a shock when one pops up.

Somewhere along the line, Boston made a conscious decision to encourage pedestrians. We’re only now getting to that point here.

The quickest way to build upon some of Dallas’ nascent steps is to ensure the next city manager we hire is someone who currently works far, far away from the City of Dallas.

We need a fresh look at pedestrians, bikers and potholes here, and if history is our guide, it’s not going to come from anyone currently drawing city paychecks.

We need to find the second- or third-in-charge in Boston, in New York, in San Francisco, in Chicago somewhere oriented toward pedestrians and residents. We need to pay that person the “world class” money we needlessly found for the current city manager.

Those of us who live here need to be the priority going forward, not flashy bypass roads and bogus river park plans. The only way that’s going to happen is if we find someone who isn’t already here, supply them with a butcher knife, and tell them to have at it.

is president of Advocate Media. Let him know how we are doing by emailing rwamre@advocatemag.com.

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Operating at a higher standard.

Surgeons David Taunton, Howard Harris and Michael Nguyen are setting the benchmark for quality orthopedic care in North Texas. When it was time to build a new o ce for their growing practice, LegacyTexas was ready to assist. Having the right banking partner has given them the tools they need to operate at a higher standard.

WHAT’S YOUR LEGACY?

TEXAS ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALISTS

Michael Nguyen, M.D. | Howard Harris, M.D. | David Taunton, M.D.

PERFECTLY MISMATCHED

PRESTON HOLLOW FASHION LABEL IS ALL ABOUT LETTING KIDS CHOOZE

Sharon Blumberg with Lucy at the Chooze office in Preston Hollow. (Photo by Rasy Ran)

Ayla Blumberg did not set out to inspire a children’s clothing and accessory line. How could she? She was only 2, and just wanted to wear the shoes that made her toddler self smile.

“She would always just instinctively grab two different shoes,” her mom, Sharon Blumberg, remembers. “People would say, ‘It’s so great that you let her do that.’ I was just letting her be herself.”

That was until Ayla’s affinity for different shoes started to make her wobble — a sneaker on one foot and a party shoe on the other just didn’t offer proper support for a growing child. So Sharon scoured children’s footwear, in stores and online, looking for something that would supplement Ayla’s unique sense of style, but there was nothing.

“So I came home one day and said, ‘I want to start a children’s shoe line,’ ” Sharon laughs.

While the family had no direct retail experience, they did have the skills needed to get a brand up and running. She comes from a creative background as an interior designer, and would handle the vision for brightly colored and lightly mismatched shoes.

“I knew the mismatch sock trend had just taken off,” she says. More than that, she wanted to make a brand that would encourage selfexpression.

“We’re here to inspire creativity and confidence in children,” says her husband, Marc.

He comes from a background in internet marketing and went to work researching what it would take to get a shoe brand off the ground. Turns out, if you’re super motivated, you can launch quickly — less than a year later they were unveiling their first Chooze Shoes line at MAGIC, an apparel and accessories showcase in Las Vegas.

The couple knew they wanted to

do something to give back with their brand, not only because it’s the right thing to do, but because it’s good for business. Brands with a social conscience like Whole Foods and The Container Store attract the type of clients, and retailers, that the Blumbergs sought.

They listed their newly found business with Milaap USA, a crowdfunding company that provides micro-loans to women in developing nations, allowing them to build their own industry. A portion of Chooze Shoes’ annual profit automatically goes to Milaap, which provides micro-financing to independent business owners all over the world.

“We get all that money back, it’s a loan,” Marc explains.

Sharon adds, “It’s like a hand up, not a hand out. Really, the goal is to help people realize their potential.”

The too-cute product backed by a solid message made the brand attractive to major retailers, who quickly agreed to push out the line. The brick-and-mortar retailers they were most interested in, Stride Rite, Whole Earth Provision Co. and Nordstrom, picked up the line, as did online giants Zappos and Amazon.

From there, the brand caught like wildfire. It has been featured everywhere from US Weekly to Parent & Child magazine and the Blumbergs even made an appearance on “The Today Show,” all while adding to the line.

The mismatched shoes were soon followed by leggings, dresses, hoodies and backpacks. All are made with different but complementary fabrics that pull in the same color schemes in different patterns. All of the patterns are designed in-house by Sharon and the company’s art director Mallory Hill, but nothing goes to market without Ayla’s stamp of approval.

“She has a say in just about everything,” Sharon says. The now

9-year-old texts Hill to remind her to send over new designs, and offers thoughtful feedback from their key demographic: kids.

“She really has a vision,” Sharon says, explaining how Ayla studied and studied a pattern she didn’t love until she finally figured out what was wrong. “It had a white background; she told Mallory [Hill] it should be purple. She was right.”

Beyond offering design critiques, Ayla is also the Chooze Tester, a title she bestowed upon herself. But one she has definitely earned. Ayla wears every product before it hits market, making sure the shoes and clothing are ready for play.

“She’s able to test the product at every stage,” Sharon says. “She’s gotten a few blisters to figure out if shoes need to be tweaked.”

After releasing their newest line of designs this summer, Sharon has plans to open the brand to a whole new demographic of customers: adult women. The demand for a more mature version of their eclectic and colorful dresses and yoga pants is there, so the business will continue to grow.

They keep it all close to home, however. With their business headquartered in Preston Hollow, their flexible schedules allow them plenty of time with their kids, which, in addition to Ayla, include Sam, 14, and Ari, 12.

“It’s amazing that they can see how if you establish a goal, you can achieve it,” Marc says.

Delicious

In addition to a full beer menu, Blatt Beer & Table includes a full line of cocktails. (Photo by Kathy Tran)

BLATT BEER & TABLE

Blatt Beer & Table, one of several new additions to open at Preston Hollow Village in recent months, is a bit of a conundrum. It’s a non-sporty sports bar, where you can actually have a conversation instead of being drowned out by the din of televisions. It serves classic bar foods like sausage on a stick and chicken and waffles alongside vegan and gluten free options including falafel sliders and root burgers. It’s named for Johnny Rosenblatt Stadium in Nebraska despite its Texas location.

To be fair, the business was first launched in Omaha, honoring the stadium where the College World Series takes place each year. It was the brainchild of college buddies Anthony Hitchcock, Nick Hogan and Tom Allisma, who wanted to bring something relaxed yet upscale, with a gourmet take on classic comfort food. They found a likeminded chef-owner in Tony Gentile.

The concept garnered a warm reception from patrons looking for something new in the neighborhood.

Every item is somehow simultaneously familiar but unique. Take their signature pretzel bites served with pungent rosemary mustard and gruyere fondue, or the pulled pork sandwich served with a jalapeño cornbread waffle.

It’s a place that invites you to linger for a while over shared plates and conversations. Shuffleboard lines the back wall, and happy hour offers deep discounts such as 16-ounce PBR beers for $2 and $5 cocktails.

It is the first Blatt Beer & Table in Texas, but the second Dallas joint for the restaurant’s founders, who also own Blue Sushi Sake Grill right next door.

—EMILY CHARRIER

BLATT BEER & TABLE

7859 WALNUT HILL LANE, #170 469.372.2080

BLATTBEER.COM

ATMOSPHERE: RELAXED GASTROPUB

PRICE RANGE: $4-$15

HOURS: SUNDAY-THURSDAY, 11 A.M.-11 P.M.

FRIDAY-SATURDAY, 11 A.M.-2 A.M.

DID YOU KNOW?

RESTAURATEUR ANTHONY HITCHCOCK’S GRANDFATHER PITCHED TO BABE RUTH INSIDE JOHNNY ROSENBLATT STADIUM, FOR WHICH THE BUSINESS IS NAMED.

Maple Leaf Diner

Scratch-made homestyle cooking and baking featuring a sampling of Canadian favorites like Poutine, and house-cured Peameal bacon. Beer, Wine, Liquor available.

Open Daily 7am - 9pm

Some of the easiest flowers to grow are the most exquisite when cut and brought inside.We think about local food, but what about flowers? Plant Iris rhizomes in August and get local with your own DIY flower arrangements. Our 2016 iris collection arrives at NHG in early August.

FROZEN HOT CHOCOLATE

August 2016

1/2 page, vertical 4 5/8” x 7 3/8”

4 areas Materials DUE July 8

Delivery begins late July

While we are soaring through the hottest part of summer, there is only one way to stay cool: frozen treats after a long day of outdoor play and backyard barbecues. Frozen hot chocolate has become a favorite in my family because it’s rich chocolate, not overly sweet, and the frothy flavor brings us back to the comfort of the hot chocolate we love during the winter months. Blend the frozen hot chocolate to be extra smooth before pouring into a large mug and top with fresh whipped cream, toasted marshmallows and crumbled graham crackers.

Ingredients:

6 ounce semi sweet chocolate chips

2 tablespoons cocoa powder

4 tablespoons powdered sugar

3 cups whole milk

5 cups ice

Optional Toppings:

Whipped cream

Toasted marshmallows

Graham cracker crumbs

Directions:

Melt chocolate in a bowl over a double boiler, stirring constantly.

Once chocolate is completely melted, add cocoa powder and powdered sugar, whisking until completely combined. Add half of the milk to chocolate mixture and whisk until smooth.

Remove the chocolate mixture from the heat and allow it to cool completely.

Add ice, the remaining milk and chocolate mixture into a blender and blend until it becomes very frothy with no large chips of ice.

Pour frozen hot chocolate into a glass or mug and top with fresh whipped cream, toasted marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs. Serve immediately.

Kristen Massad writes a monthly column about sweets and baked goods. The Preston Hollow resident graduated from the French Culinary Institute in New York City and owned Tart Bakery on Lovers Lane for eight years. She blogs about food and lifestyles at inkfoods.com.

OUT & ABOUT

Aug. 1-31

PRESIDENTIAL PATH

In the midst of the presidential election, go to the George W. Bush Presidential Center to get a full lesson in the electoral process with the “Path to the Presidency” exhibit on display all month.

George W. Bush Presidential Center, 2943 SMU Boulevard, 214.200.4300, bushcenter.org, $11-$17

Aug. 2

MOVIE NIGHT

After finishing a grueling day at the office, blow off some steam by catching the classic “9 to 5” starring Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin at The Magnolia.

The Magnolia, 3699 McKinney Avenue, 214.520.0394, landmarktheatres.com, $8.50-$11

Aug. 13

CASINO NIGHT

A popular local museum will become a hot casino with craps, roulette and black jack, all set to the music of Chinatown.

Frontiers of Flight Museum, 6911 Lemmon Avenue, 214.350.3600, flightmuseum.com, $75

Aug. 14 and 28

MASTER CLASS

Learn to draw from artist Ian O’Brien during his “Drawing from the Masters” class. Get there early; only 20 can participate in this opportunity.

Meadows Museum, 5900 Bishop Blvd., 214.768.2516, meadowsmuseumdallas.org, free

Aug. 18

MEET OUR NEW DISD TRUSTEE

Dustin Marshall, who won the Dallas ISD District 2 runoff election, is hosting a series of casual discussions throughout the district, which includes much of the Preston Hollow and East Dallas areas. The events are come-and-go with no planned agenda. He invites residents to “share ideas, ask questions and brainstorm solutions together.”

Times Ten Cellars, 6324 Prospect, 5-7 p.m., dustinmarshall.com

Aug. 20

BACK TO SCHOOL

Back to school means back to NorthPark Center. With the ABC’s of Back-to-School event, there will be plenty of activities to get your kids ready for the first bell of the year. NorthPark Center, 8687 N. Central Expressway, 214.363.7441, northparkcenter.com, free

LOVES A CLASSIC

We prefer an easy night out at Neighborhood Services or Rusty Taco rather than a trip to one of the area’s newest restaurants. We are Preston Hollow, and we like to keep it classic, which was made apparent in the annual Advocate Best Of contest.

While other contests focus on the entire city, ours looks only at the Best Of our neighborhood. It highlights the places and spaces that are beloved by our readers, not some corporate marketing team, and it shows what we value as a community.

If you need an idea for a new date spot, Preston Hollow Village, with its myriad bars and restaurants, is the ideal one-stop shop, readers say. But if you’re in the mood for a perfectly classic cocktail, you won’t find something more Preston Hollow than the bar at Neighborhood Services, winner of best night out and best bar. The bar is probably the easiest way to get a seat at the restaurant, where reservations are booked a month in advance.

When it comes to taking care of our bodies, our readers trust the experts at the Cooper Clinic. Cooper spa is favored as the best place to get a massage or facial, and if you need to break a sweat, you’ll want to check out Cooper Fitness Center.

Looking to reward yourself after a work out? For breakfast and lunch, our readers prefer the classic home-style dishes served up with a Canadian twist at the Maple Leaf Diner.

Readers also love their highestprofile neighbor, former President George W. Bush, a consummate Texas classic. They recommended the George W. Bush Presidential Center as both the best local attraction and the best area museum.

ADVOCATE’S BEST OF 2016 RECAP

PRESTON HOLLOW

Over the past three months, Advocate readers voted to select the best of Preston Hollow. Be sure to visit all of these local spots, and share your pictures with us on social media — we’d love to see you around the neighborhood. #AdvocateBestOf

BEST OF DINING

BEST LUNCH SPOT

WINNER

MAPLE LEAF DINER

RUNNERS-UP

Mermaid Bar at Neiman

Marcus

Bread Winners

Cindi’s NY Deli

NOMINEES

Bread Winners

Modern Market

Green House Market

VertsKebap

Matchbox Kitchen

Little Greek

BEST NIGHT OUT WINNER

NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES

RUNNERS-UP

TJ’s Fresh Seafood

Rise Soufflé

NOMINEES

DISH

The Mercury

Pakpao Thai

Blue Sushi Sake Grill

Preston Hollow Grill and Nosh

BEST BAR

WINNER

NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES

RUNNERS-UP

Inwood Tavern

The Bar at the Mercury

NOMINEES

Midway Point

Inwood Lounge

Time Out Tavern

Woodlands Grill

Matchbox Kitchen

BEST BREAKFAST/BRUNCH

WINNER

MAPLE LEAF DINER

RUNNERS-UP

Cindi’s NY Deli

Bread Winners

NOMINEES

The Original Market and Diner

Woodlands American Grill

Rise Soufflé

Angela’s Café

BEST BURGERS

WINNER

LIBERTY BURGER

RUNNERS-UP

Neighborhood Services

Hopdoddy

NOMINEES

Village Burger Bar

Chip’s Old Fashioned Hamburgers

Woodlands American Grill

BEST PIZZA WINNER

DOUGH PIZZERIA

RUNNER-UP

Picasso’s Pizza

Al’s Pizzeria (2014 Winner)

NOMINEES

Mimi’s Pizzeria

My Family’s Pizza

Lover’s Pizza & Pasta

BEST DESSERT WINNER

NOTHING BUNDT CAKES

RUNNERS-UP

Stein’s Bakery

La Duni NorthPark

NOMINEES

Tart Bakery

Celebrity Café

Carlo’s Bakery

Hospitality Sweet

BEST TACO WINNER

RUSTY TACO (2015 Winner)

RUNNERS-UP

Meso Mayo

Taco Diner

NOMINEES

Tupinamba

Gabriela and Sofia’s

El Tizoncito

Tipico’s

Tacos y mas

BEST FLORAL SERVICE

WINNER

DR. DELPHINIUM

RUNNERS-UP

Stems of Dallas

Apples to Zinnias

NOMINEES

Cebolla Fine Flowers

Wild About Flowers

Simply Amazing Florist

BEST PET SERVICE

WINNER

HOLLYWOOD FEED

RUNNERS-UP

Lucky Dog Barkery

Clip n’ Dip Pet Spa

Perky Poodle

NOMINEES

Animalhouse Dogwalking/Petsitting

RAW by Canines First Park Cities Pet Salon

BEST DATE SPOT

WINNER

PRESTON HOLLOW VILLAGE

RUNNERS-UP

Inwood Theater (2015 Winner)

Painting with a Twist

NOMINEES

Smashing Times

Uncle Calvin’s Coffeehouse

The Art of Wine

Velvet Elvis

BEST MUSEUM

WINNER

GEORGE W. BUSH PRESIDENTIAL CENTER

RUNNERS-UP

Frontiers of Flight Museum

Museum of Biblical Art

NOMINEES

Meadows Museum

BEST OF SERVICES

BEST HOME GOODS

WINNERS (3-way tie)

NORTH HAVEN GARDENS (2015 winner)

THE SAMPLE HOUSE (2015 winner)

SWOOZIE’S

RUNNERS-UP

Nicholson-Hardie

Wisteria

NOMINEES

The Wicker Basket

Mary Cates & Co.

Lovers Lane Antique Market

BEST PLACE TO WORK OUT WINNER

COOPER FITNESS CENTER

RUNNERS-UP

Pure Barre

Core Pilates Dallas

NOMINEES

Orange Theory Fitness

BEYOND Fitness Studio

We Yogis

The Bar Method

Equinox Preston Hollow

CorePower Yoga

Elevate Fitness

Larry North Gym

Gold’s Gym

Studio 6 Fitness

SunstoneFIT

NexGen Fitness

BURN Dallas

BEST OF CULTURE

BEST PLACE TO RELAX WINNER

WHITE ROCK CREEK TRAIL

RUNNERS-UP

CenterPark Garden at NorthPark

Museum of Biblical Art

North Haven Gardens Café

NOMINEES

Bachman Lake

Preston Hollow

United Methodist Prayer Labyrinth

Unity Church of Dallas Prayer Chapel

Temple Emanu-El

Northaven Trail

Meadows Museum Plaza

and Sculpture Garden

Preston Royal Library

BEST PLACE FOR KIDS WINNER

TOWN NORTH YMCA

RUNNERS-UP

Preston Royal Library (2015 Winner)

Northhaven Trail

Little Gym

Preston Hollow Park

Jewish Community Center

NOMINEES

Emler Swim School

Bookmarks at NorthPark Center

Kidville

Gymboree

BEST SPA WINNER

COOPER SPA

RUNNERS-UP

Adrift Float Spa

Spa Nordstrom at NorthPark

NOMINEES

Facelogic

Hiatus Spa

Unit Skin Studio

Equinox Preston Hollow

Halycon Days at Neiman Marcus

Foot Joy

BEST LOCAL ATTRACTION

WINNER

GEORGE W. BUSH PRESIDENTIAL CENTER

RUNNERS-UP

NorthPark Center

Inwood Village

Preston Hollow Village

NOMINEES

The Rachofsky House

Jewish Community Center

Preston Center

Best Local Attraction Winner, George W. Bush Presidential Center

LIVIN’ ON THE EDGE

STORY BY EMILY CHARRIER

PHOTOS BY DANNY FULGENCIO

AERIAL PHOTOS BY

JUSTIN BENDER

There are those among us who don’t truly feel alive unless their blood is pulsating through their veins, accelerated by the incessant beat of a heart racing with adrenaline. They spend their lives chasing that natural high, each for their own aim. Some like the rush, others need to push themselves to reach new challenges to feel complete. Whatever their reason, they have found something that gives them that necessary feeling of elation, whether it’s jumping from airplanes, swimming with sharks or racing automobiles. It may not be for everyone, but for these neighbors, the more extreme the better.

FREE FALLING

Talking to Jaime Barajas is kind of like talking to a Hollywood action star — he seamlessly transitions from his 2,300 skydives to climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro to riding motorcycles across Central America. Throw in a villain and a sexy Bond girl and you’ve got one heck of a script.

“I think the secret to youth is having no fear,” he smiles.

Fear isn’t a part of his lexicon. He attacks adventure. But, despite his affinity for all things extreme, does not consider himself an adrenaline junkie.

“It gives me a lot of serenity, it’s relaxing,” the Preston Hollow neighbor says of jumping out of a plane from 14,500 feet. “You’re stressed out from your week at work but you step in the plane and you’re focused.”

Barajas credits the 1993 surfer/ bank heist cult film “Point Break” with inspiring his fascination with plummeting through the air at up to 240 mph with nothing but a

parachute strapped to his back. If you haven’t seen it, there’s an iconic male bonding scene where the surfers-turned-bank robbers jump from a plane, forming a circle while free falling over Southern California.

Before then, he thought skydiving was only something open to military paratroopers. After seeing the movie, he was obsessed. His first jump was in his native Colombia, and it was like a fish to water — Barajas was meant to fly.

“I think the first time I did it, I did three jumps in one day,” he says.

Soon thereafter he moved to Texas to attend the Art Institute of Dallas, earning a degree that got him a job oddly suited for his high-adrenaline lifestyle: designing remote control cars for Plano-based Traxxas. Meanwhile, his fascination with skydiving continued to grow. He kept jumping, learning to work with teams of up to 40 other people to create complex formations while rocketing through the sky, before each spins away to deploy his own chute. He

was living the “Point Break” dream — sans the criminal activity.

“It really absorbs you,” he says. “All you want to do is go jump.”

Barajas is a regular at Skydive Spaceland Dallas, located north of the city in Whitewright, Texas. Although the new runway that allows for larger aircrafts and higher altitude jumps helps, he says it’s the warm community that keeps him coming back.

“It is so welcoming,” he says. “No matter who you are, you fit in there.”

He’s met most of his best friends through his hobby, as well as his wife. Barajas trained her as she sought the license that allows skydivers to jump unassisted.

He says he’s never had a truly terrifying experience when skydiving, although he has had to rely on his reserve parachute on five separate occasions. In each case, his primary chute got tangled, something that can happen if the lines cross upon deployment. It’s really no big deal, he says

Jaime Barajas falls from 14,500 feet at 120 mph as a way to “relax,” he says.

dismissively, you just pull the cut-away line to detach it, then release the reserve chute.

“That’s what we train for, you have to develop that muscle memory,” he says while miming the motions. “When things go wrong, it’s really quick but it gives you enough time to make a decision.”

He adds that it’s riskier to drive to the drop zone than to jump, considering the statistics on automobile accidents versus skydiving accidents. “It’s a calculated risk, but the odds are on your side,” he says.

Barajas also is a high-altitude climber, who has been to base camp on Everest; Aconcagua, the highest peak in the Western Hemisphere; Mount Elbrus in Russia; and Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. He’s an adventurer at his core, a love sparked when he was a youth in Boy Scouts.

“We would always go exploring,” he says.

It’s a side of him he’ll never relinquish, even though he’s had to slow down this year as a new father to a 10-month-old son. “I told my wife I’m never giving up skydiving,” he says. “I think giving up the adventurous side of my life would be like giving up who I am.”

SKY DANCER

Stephanie Stewart does not consider herself an adrenaline junkie. She’s a bit more deliberate in her risk taking.

“When I was a kid, I would watch the other kids before I jumped in,” she says.

But what would you call ascending 30 feet in the air, held up by nothing more than your own body’s strength, if not daring? Very few would attempt the physical feat, and ever fewer would take it up after the age of 40.

But as soon as Stewart saw the graceful aerialists seemingly float through the air on suspended silks at Cirque du Soleil, she needed to try her hand at it. She didn’t let the fact that adult classes weren’t offered stop her ambition.

“I was completely mesmerized,” says the Preston Hollow resident.

It didn’t hurt that she is a lifelong athlete who has always kept her body in peak form. She was a gymnast as a child and a competitive swimmer in her teen and adult years. She works out at least five times a week, often multiple times a day with a swim in the morning and an aerialist class at night. But as a swimmer in her 40s, she began to lose muscle mass, and sought a fun way to keep her body engaged.

“I could go lift weights at the gym but that was boring to me,” she says.

So when she saw those aerialists flipping through the air, she decided it was the perfect mixture of exercise and excitement. Her company helps get new inventions to market, so she works in Las Vegas frequently. A friend connected her with Cirque du Soleil aerialists, who agreed to teach her their craft.

“I videotaped everything, so I could watch it and recreate it at home,” she says.

The gym frequented by her son, a gymnast who narrowly missed qualifying for the Olympic Games in Brazil, allowed her to hang “silks” and she started practicing. It’s all about conditioning, so first she learned to ascend and descend. Back and forth, from the floor to the ceiling, she climbed until it felt like second nature. Then she started with the tricks. She was fixated on learning “the helicopter,” in which an aerialist climbs all the way to the top and then, with the silks wrapped just right, drops, twirling down with their arms and legs extended like a helicopter. It was not a novice move.

“That was the first trick I said, ‘Oh, I have to do that,’ ” she says. “I thought, ‘I have to be better, I have to be stronger, I have to do more.’ ”

Stewart’s love of the art led her to Fanny Kerwich, an eighth-generation circus performer who established the Lone Star Circus, which offers classes for kids in addition to teaching at the Dallas International School. Stewart knew there was a market for adult classes based on how many people approached her while she worked the silks at her son’s gym, and soon the pair were expanding the business.

Lone Star Circus bounced around but recently found a permanent home in Addison. Stewart teaches three days a week, and her students range from teenagers to people

Jaime Barajas of Preston Hollow has more than 2,300 jumps under his belt.

in their 70s. She also began performing all over the city, from the annual Mary Kay convention to charity events seeking unusual entertainment danced from 50 feet above. To date, she has never experienced a fall or any other heart-stopping moments, she says — remember, she’s all about calculated risk with methodical training, a strong body and a focused mind.

“I may have had the best day, or the worst day, but you put that all away because you need to be engaged to do this,” she says.

SPEED RACER

It took crushing three vertebrae in his back, losing an inch-anda-half of his height, before Matt Davis hung up his motorcycle racing helmet. But not before he had some stellar times.

“You’re going to get injured racing motorcycles,” he says. “You know that going in.”

The threat of injury was never a deterrent for Davis. As a boy growing up in Preston Hollow, he had the ultimate playground at his disposal.

“There were 200 acres of fields by my house. There were trails everywhere,” he remembers of a time before Dallas’ most exclusive neighborhood was built out with elegant homes. Those wide open fields were a haven for the neighborhood kids, who found endless ways to entertain themselves outside in a time before cellphones and Youtube videos. With two older brothers who rode mini bikes and motorcycles, it was only a matter of time before Davis felt the itch.

“They had done it, so I was going to do it better,” he laughs.

Much to his mother’s chagrin, he convinced his father to buy him a Honda Mini Trail 50 when he was about 10. He learned to maneuver with slick precision, especially around tricky turns, making him

Stephanie Stewart became an aerialist in her 40s and teaches others the art at Lone Star Circus.

one to watch when the neighborhood kids raced each other on tracks they made in the open pastures.

“I didn’t have the fastest bike, but I was winning the races,” he says. “It’s all about being the last to brake and the first to gas, every racer knows that.”

His skills caught the eye of a neighbor who built motorcycles for professional racers. He saw potential in young Davis, and started taking him to the local racetracks like Mosier Valley and Rabbit Run where he watched with jaw agape as the riders flew past, sending plumes of dirt into the air. He was hooked.

“After that, it was every single day. As soon as I got home from school, I was on my bike,” he says.

At 14, he won his first race. And the trophies and medals kept coming. While most of his friends were cruising Forest Lane to pick up girls, he was mostly glued to the track, honing his skills.

It was as consuming as it was dangerous. He suffered multiple fractures throughout his youth, things he considers “minor” injuries. Once it was his wrist after his handlebars collided with another racer’s coming down off a jump. He

was in Oklahoma, during the state’s biggest rivalry football game of the year between University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State.

“There were no doctors at the hospital, they were all at the game,” he laughs.

When he graduated from W.T White in 1981, he was on his own financially. Motocross proved too expensive to keep up with at the time. He took a break, got married and let the motorcycle collect dust in the garage. In the late 1990s, he met a friend who was into crosscountry racing, a new take on an old favorite for Davis.

“Motocross is sprinting,” he says. “Cross-country is about endurance.”

Races lasted a punishing 50 miles, often through inhospitable terrain such as mud, heavy tree lines and rocks. It was a new mountain to tackle, and Davis was headed straight for the top.

“I went to a race just to watch. I didn‘t get maybe 10 feet in the gate when I smelled that race fuel and had to sign up [to race],” he says. “Eventually I was state champion.”

That was the 2004-05 race season with Texas Cross Country

Racing Association — earning him a coveted racing jacket. He laughingly admits the prizes in motorcycle races are lackluster at best.

“We don’t spend a lot of money on our trophies,” he says. “It’s mostly about bragging rights.”

One year after his champion season, he suffered the devastating injury that would end his racing career. Despite surviving all manor of collision, this injury was sparked by a simple miscalculation on a landing.

“I rode off the track, I just thought I knocked the wind out of me,” he says. “The EMTs were kind of jerks. They rolled me over and said, ‘Oh s***.’ I said, ‘What do you mean oh s***?’ ”

Clearly something was wrong — very wrong. As mentioned, Davis suffered a compression fracture in three of his vertebrae. His recovery wasn’t terrible, he says. At the same time, a close friend also broke his back, nearly paralyzing him — it was three years before he could walk unassisted again. It was a wakeup call. Davis was the father to a 5-year-old, and wanted to be there for his son. So he stopped racing. “But I still like riding,” he admits.

Matt Davis raced motocross professionally as a teen before switching to cross-country racing as an adult. (Submitted photos)

One of Preston Hollow’s most high-profile neighbors, Mark Cuban, gave $1 million to the Dallas Police Department in response to the Orlando shooting that claimed 49 lives at a gay nightclub. In a press release, Police Chief David Brown said, “These funds will be used primarily to protect the LGBT community. We will earmark and track the expenditure of these funds to ensure its effective use in creating a safe environment.” This includes counterterrorism efforts and boosting police presence in Oak Lawn. Cuban said in the press release, “I’m proud to be able to help the City of Dallas.”

Jack Evans , who married his partner George Harris the same day the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage, died at the age of 86. Evan and Harris were the first gay couple in Dallas County to marry at City Hall. A post from Northaven United Methodist Church, where they were both members and held a wedding ceremony, read, “Jack was gregarious, funny, a strong believer in social justice, and a mentor to generations of LGBTQ people, and their straight allies. He lived through remarkable social change for LGBTQ people, marveled at those changes, and was a key part in those social changes happening.”

Pre-kindergarten is now being offered at select Dallas ISD elementary schools for families who don’t qualify for free pre-K according to state guidelines. Three Preston Hollow area elementary schools, Nathan Adamas, Arthur Kramer and Walnut Hill now have tuition spots for 4-year-olds, including spots in bilingual classrooms. The cost is $700 a month for 10 months, and openings are first-come first-served. Visit dallasisd.org/prek or email paidprek@dallasisd.org for more information.

DALLAS ACADEMY

950 Tiffany Way, Dallas 75218 / 214.324.1481 / dallas-academy.com Founded in 1965, Dallas Academy’s mission is to restore the promise of full academic enrichment to students with learning differences in grades 1-12. A meaningful connection with each student is established to overcome barriers to success. Dallas Academy offers students an effective program and strategies to meet the special educational needs of bright students with learning differences, while including the activities of a larger, more traditional school. Classes are small, with a student-teacher ratio of 6 to 1 where students are encouraged, praised, and guided toward achieving their goals. Diagnostic testing is available to students throughout the community.

HIGHLANDER SCHOOL

9120 Plano Rd. Dallas / 214.348.3220 / www.highlanderschool.com Founded in 1966, Highlander offers an enriched curriculum in a positive, Christian-based environment. By limiting class size, teachers are able to build a strong educational foundation to ensure confidence in academics, athletics, and the creative and performing arts. Highlander offers a “classic” education which cannot be equaled. Monthly tours offered; call for a reservation.

HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL

3815 Oak Lawn Ave., Dallas 214-526-5113, htcsdallas.org For more than 100 years, Holy Trinity Catholic School, has been committed to the religious, intellectual, emotional, social and physical growth of each student. This commitment is carried out in a nurturing atmosphere with an emphasis on social awareness, service to others, and religious faith in the Catholic tradition.

The Immaculate Heart Program at Holy Trinity School was initiated to fully realize our school’s mission of developing the whole child by meeting the needs of one of the most underserved and underperforming groups in catholic schools, children with dyslexia.

KESSLER SCHOOL

Pre K – 6th Grade / 1215 Turner Ave, Dallas TX 75208 / 214-942-2220 / www. thekesserschool.com The Kessler School offers an innovative academic environment that gives students a solid foundation, confidence, and a love of learning. Located just minutes from downtown Dallas; The Kessler School’s mission is to “educate the whole child,” and provides an individualized approach to teaching – meeting the student where their needs are. Students are educated socially through community time, physically through daily PE, academically through a wellrounded curriculum, and spiritually through a fostering of awareness and individual growth.

LAKEHILL PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Leading to Success. 2720 Hillside Dr., Dallas 75214 / 214.826.2931 / lakehillprep. org Kindergarten through Grade 12Lakehill Preparatory School takes the word preparatory in its name very seriously. Throughout a student’s academic career, Lakehill builds an educational program that achieves its goal of enabling graduates to attend the finest, most rigorous universities of choice. Lakehill combines a robust, college-preparatory curriculum with opportunities for personal growth, individual enrichment, and community involvement. From kindergarten through high school, every Lakehill student is encouraged to strive, challenged to succeed, and inspired to excel.

SPANISH HOUSE

Four East Dallas Locations / 214.826.4410/ DallasSpanishHouse.com

Spanish Immersion Program in East Dallas! Nursery, Preschool, Elementary and Adult Programs available. Our new K-5 Dual-Language Elementary School will be open for the 2016-2017 school year at 7159 E. Grand Avenue. Please visit our website (DallasSpanishHouse.com) or call 214.826.4410 for a tour.

WHITE ROCK NORTH SCHOOL

9727 White Rock Trail Dallas / 214.348.7410 / WhiteRockNorthSchool. com 6 Weeks through 6th Grade. Our accelerated curriculum provides opportunity for intellectual and physical development in a loving and nurturing environment. Character-building and civic responsibility are stressed. Facilities include indoor swimming pool, skating rink, updated playground, and state-ofthe-art technology lab. Kids Club on the Corner provides meaningful after-school experiences. Summer Camp offers field trips, swimming, and a balance of indoor and outdoor activities designed around fun-filled themes. Accredited by SACS. Call for a tour of the campus.

ZION LUTHERAN SCHOOL

6121 E. Lovers Ln. Dallas / 214.363.1630 / ziondallas. org Toddler care thru 8th Grade. Serving Dallas for over 58 years offering a quality education in a Christ-centered learning environment. Degreed educators minister to the academic, physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of students and their families. Before and after school programs, Extended Care, Parents Day Out, athletics, fine arts, integrated technology, Spanish, outdoor education, Accelerated Reader, advanced math placement, and student government. Accredited by National Lutheran School & Texas District Accreditation Commissions and TANS. Contact Principal Jeff Thorman.

DALLAS’ CHARACTER REVEALED

OUR EFFORTS TO ACKNOWLEDGE INEQUALITY BECAME APPARENT AFTER JULY’S TRAGEDY

Dallas took a sucker punch in the gut with the hate-inspired, raciallymotivated murder of five police officers. We were knocked down, but not knocked out.

Character is not made in crisis; it is revealed. As the

WORSHIP

BAPTIST

PARK CITIES BAPTIST CHURCH / 3933 Northwest Pky / pcbc.org

Worship & Bible Study 9:15 & 10:45 Traditional, Contemporary, Spanish Speaking / 214.860.1500

WILSHIRE BAPTIST / 4316 Abrams / 214.452.3100

Pastor George A. Mason Ph.D. / Worship 8:30 & 11:00 am

Bible Study 9:40 am / www.wilshirebc.org

DISCIPLES OF CHRIST

EAST DALLAS CHRISTIAN CHURCH / 629 N. Peak Street / 214.824.8185

Sunday School 9:30 am / Worship 8:30 am - Chapel

10:50 am - Sanctuary / Rev. Deborah Morgan-Stokes / edcc.org

LUTHERAN

FIRST UNITED LUTHERAN CHURCH / 6202 E Mockingbird Lane

Sunday Worship Service 10:30 am / Call for class schedule. 214.821.5929 / www.dallaslutheran.org

METHODIST

GRACE UMC / Diverse, Inclusive, Missional

Sunday School for all ages, 9:30 am / Worship, 10:50 am 4105 Junius St. / 214.824.2533 / graceumcdallas.org

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

GATEWAY CHURCH / we’re all about people 12123 Hillcrest Road, 75230 / 469.801.7250 / gatewaydallas.com

Saturdays: 4:00 pm / Sundays: 9:00 & 10:45 am

PRESBYTERIAN

PRESTON HOLLOW PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH / 9800 Preston Road

Refreshing Faith Summer Sundays: Grow 9:00 am, Worship 10:00 am

Senior Pastor Matthew E. Ruffner / www.phpc.org / 214.368.6348

UNITY

UNITY OF DALLAS / A Positive Path for Spiritual Living 6525 Forest Lane, Dallas, TX 75230 / 972.233.7106 / UnityDallas.org

Sundays: 9:00 am Early Service, 11:00 am Celebration Service

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

ubiquitous hashtag puts it, we are #DallasStrong.

But why? Dallas has been hard at work in recent years facing its lingering heritage of racism and inequality. The usual way of dealing with these things is to deny they exist, claim they aren’t really that bad, blame a few bad apples, or just whitewash things in order to keep the fiction alive that all is well if we just adopt Pollyanna’s mantra of playing the Glad game.

No, the problems run too deep to wish them away or simply to say that what our ancestors or predecessors did was then, but we are not responsible now. We have begun instead the painful but liberating process of acknowledging that we are all heirs of America’s original sin of slavery. We have begun to see the folly of denying our complicity in systems of law, education, business and neighborliness that have masked a prejudice that favors some and alienates others.

Dallas Police Chief David Brown’s courageous leadership of a department has led to a five-year decrease of 64 percent in citizen complaints of the police’s excessive use of force and a falling murder rate. He hasn’t flinched in his resolve to create respect and trust between law

enforcement and the community, especially the sub-communities of color.

We have a mayor in Mike Rawlings and a City Council determined to see the city as a whole, and thereby they have been making the city whole. We have heard our mayor at long last apologize to Latinos for the murder of 12-year-old Santos Rodriquez 40 years ago by the Dallas police. We have seen Dallas Faces Race become an ongoing public conversation. We have seen the Council and the Dallas Morning News focus on building bridges between northern and southern Dallas that were not designed by Santiago Calatrava but by the good will of the human heart.

We’ve seen churches and pastors black and white — partnering in friendship and action. We’ve seen Christians, Jews and Muslims listening to and learning from one another rather than shouting at one another or “othering” one another. There is no other; there is only one another.

Martin Luther King, Jr. wrote in his “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” these prescient words: “In a real sense all life is inter-related. All men are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly. I can never be what I ought to be until you are what you ought to be, and you can never be what you ought to be until I am what I ought to be.”

We have work to do still. Plenty. But this tragedy has called out our best in the face of the worst.

Keep calm and carry on, Dallas.

George Mason is pastor of Wilshire Baptist Church. The Worship section is underwritten by Advocate Publishing and the neighborhood businesses and churches listed here. For information about helping support the Worship section, call 214.560.4202

BUSINESS BUZZ

WHAT’S UP WITH NEIGHBORHOOD BUSINESSES

PH issue

DEVELOPMENT

If a current zoning application is approved, 25 single-family lots could make their way to the 2.26-acre property at 2963 MODELLA AVE.

Aug delux nail text placed for Aug

The property originally housed a 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom bungalow built in 1955. It was listed at $799,999 by Dave Perry Miller and was sold at lot value. The lot is unconventionally zoned: residential with a 10,000 square-foot or larger lot, which carries specific requirements on how large residential structures can be built in an effort to preserve green space. The property abuts commercial developments to the north, duplexes to the east, townhouses to

the west and Marcus Park Recreation Center to the south. Because there is no access to Bend Drive, traffic would be routed onto Modella Avenue should the development come to fruition.

NOW OPEN

On June 27, local father Francisco “Frank” Salinas opened FRANK’S TACO GRILL on Greenville near Park Lane. A restaurant veteran himself, Salinas says the grill offers a different presentation of tacos. “[We’re] focusing a great deal on working people. When you have kids, you get tired of fast food, but then you go to restaurants, and you find you’re paying too much. We’re shooting to be there in

the middle — better than fast food but price points that aren’t going to break you,” Salinas says. Frank’s also will be open during breakfast and offer catering.

COMING SOON

CINCOS TACOS , an old-school taqueria, will open its second location this fall in Preston Hollow Village.

EAST HAMPTON SANDWICH CO. will launch its sixth location this month at 12300 Inwood Road.

Also coming this month, the popular Bishop Arts boutique SOCIETY , a candle and greeting card shop, will open its second location in the Plaza at Preston Center.

THE market

VICTOR L. HALL

Area Manager/ Loan Officer

BancorpSouth Mortgage Cell: 972.352.7648

victor.hall@bxs.com victorlhall.com

NMLS #453089

CLIP’N DIP

Premiere Pet Pampering

10224 Midway Rd. Dallas, Tx 75229

clipndip2014@gmail.com

214.350.2547

DELUXE NAILS & SPA

Highland Park

4235 W. Northwest Hwy. #200 Dallas, TX 75220 (214) 350-0113

DeluxeNailsHighlandPark.com

Like Deluxe nail spa on Facebook!

Deluxe Nails & Spa gives high quality nail services in a lavish spa environment. By appointment or drop in — you deserve the best. Back to School Special! Enjoy a Pedicure AND Manicure for only $44 throughout August.

ARKANSAS

CEDAR CABINS

Vacation get-away

18308 Highway 84 Bismarck, AR 71929

501.458.1371

ArkansasCedarCabins.com

“As a 15-year mortgage professional, you can count on my expertise and knowledge to help you make the right choice for your new home construction, purchase or refinance needs.”

–Victor L. Hall

Pets aren’t just pets. They’re family! Give them the best Paw Spa treatments in Dallas. Your pet will have the best experience with our groomers who have years of experience & a strong love for animals. Your fur babies are in safe & capable hands!

Come relax and enjoy these lovely cedar log cabins near Hot Springs, AR. These secluded cabins overlook the Ouachita Mountain foothills with flowing creeks and lush green forest. Make your reservations today!

CITY BLUES

Our city’s collective heart broke in July when four Dallas police officers and a transit officer were killed while on patrol at a Black Lives Matter rally, where another nine officers and two civilians were shot by lone gunman. In response, neighbors on Joyce Way all took part in the blue ribbon campaign, adorning their homes with pops of blue to show their love and respect to police across the city and country.

CLASSES/TUTORING/ LESSONS

ART: Draw/Paint. Adults All Levels. Lake Highlands N. Rec. Ctr. Days: Mon & Wed. Students bring supplies. Nights: 1xt month workshop, supplies furnished. Jane Cross. 214-534-6829,

CREATIVE ARTS CENTER More than 500 adult art classes/ workshops from metal to mosaic! www.creativeartscenter.org

FARMERS BRANCH AQUATICS CENTER Visit our new natatorium. Begin swim, fitness classes & open swim. fbh2o.com

EMPLOYMENT

PET SITTERS, DOG WALKERS reply to http://www.pcpsi.com/join

SERVICES FOR YOU

AT ODDS WITH YOUR COMPUTER? Easily Learn Essential Skills. Services include Digital Photo Help. Sharon 214-679-9688

COMPUTER HELP! Viruses, Data Recovery, Upgrades, WiFi Problems, Onsite Tech. 214-533-6216 WebersComputers.com

CONFUSED? FRUSTRATED? Let A Seasoned Pro Be The Interface Between You & That Pesky Windows Computer. Hardware & Software Installation, Troubleshooting, Training. $60/hr. 1 hr min. Dan 214-660-3733 / stykidan@sbcglobal.net

LICENSED PHYCHOLOGIST Academic, behavioral, ADHD, emotional testing. Children, adolescents, adults. Therapy. Dr. Katherine Pang 214-531-7624 lighthousepsychtesting.com

NEIGHBORHOOD ENERGY EXPERT Helps you earn rewards for free energy, travel points & more. Call Elaine today for a free electric bill review. 214-500-3667 Make the Switch & Save!

LEGAL SERVICES

A FREE CONSULTATION Wills/Probate/Guardianships. MaryGlennAttorney.com 214-802-6768

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

ACCOUNTING, TAXES Small Businesses & Individuals. Chris King, CPA 214-824-5313 www.chriskingcpa.com

BOOKKEEPING NEEDS? Need Help Organizing Finances?

No Job Too Small or Big. Call C.A.S. Bookkeeping Services. Cindy 214-577-7450

PROPERTY TAX PROTEST laurenmedel.com. 972-773-9306

NEED A NEW WEBSITE?

Mobile. SEO Friendly. Maintainable.

AdvocateWebDesign.com 214.292.2053

MIND, BODY & SPIRIT

OAKCLIFF-LMT.COM Between Kessler & Stevens Park. Swedish & deep tissue massage. LMT Renee, 214-704-8193.

PET SERVICES

DOGGIE DEN DALLAS Daycare, Boarding, Grooming, Training. 6444 E. Mockingbird Ln. 214-823-1441 DoggieDenDallas.com

POOP SCOOP PROFESSIONALS Trust The Experts. 214-826-5009. germaine_free@yahoo.com

PET SERVICES

Society Pet Sitter,Inc.

BUY/SELL/TRADE

DONATE YOUR CAR FOR BREAST CANCER Help United Breast Foundation education, prevention, support programs. Fast free pickup. 24 Hour response. Tax deduction. 855-403-0213

RANGERS, STARS & MAVS

Share front-row Texas Rangers, Stars & Mavs seats. Tickets are available in sets of 10 games (sets of 2 or 4 tickets per game available). Participants randomly draw numbers prior to season to determine a draft order fair to everyone. Call 214-560-4212 or rwamre@advocatemag.com

ESTATE/GARAGE SALES

CLUTTERBLASTERS.COM

Estate Sales, Moving & DownSizing Sales.

Since 2001. Ph/Txt Donna 972-679-3100

ORGANIZEANDREJUVENATE.COM

Declutter/Files/Feng Shui. 972-816-8004

OVERWHELMED? CALL All Points: “A Solutions Company” AllPointsEstateServices.com • 214-802-2781

WANT TO MAKE MONEY? Richardson Mercantile is looking for dealers who want to join one of the best antique malls in DFW. Need details? Go to richardsonmercantile@gmail.com

AC & HEAT

WINDOW AC TUNE UP Repair, Cleaning, Etc. Buy/Sell 214-321-5943

Family Owned & Operated

Serving

We

972-274-2157

www.CrestAirAndHeat.com

APPLIANCE REPAIR

JESSE’S A/C & APPLIANCE SERVICE

TACLB13304C All Makes/Models. 214-660-8898

CLEANING SERVICES

CLEAN FREAKS Since 2005. Free Estimates. DallasCleanFreaks.com Call Today! 214-821-8888

MESS MASTERS Earth friendly housecleaning. 469-235-7272. www.messmasters.com Since ‘91

TWO SISTERS & A MOP Move in/Out. Reliable/Dependable 20 Yrs Exp. 214-283-9732

twosistersamopmaidservice.com

WANTED: HOUSES TO CLEAN Great Prices $$. Family owned business. 15 years exp. Reliable. Excellent Refs. Call Sunny @ 214-724-2555

WINDOW MAN WINDOW CLEANING.COM

Residential Specialists. BBB. 214-718-3134

COMPUTERS & ELECTRONICS

BILL’S COMPUTER REPAIR

Virus Removal, Data Recovery. Home/Biz Network Install. All Upgrades & Repairs. PC Instruction. No Trip Fee. 214-348-2566

CONCRETE/MASONRY/ PAVING

Serving your Neighborhood Since 1993

Repairing: Refrigerators •Washer/Dryers

• Ice Makers •Stoves • Cooktops • Ovens 214✯823✯2629

CABINETRY & FURNITURE

SQUARE NAIL WOODWORKING

Cabinet Refacing, Custom Built-ins and Entertainment/ Computer Centers.

Full Kitchen and Bath Remodels.

For information, contact Jim @ 214-324-7398

Licensed Contractor proudly serving Lakewood/ East Dallas since 1995 squarenailwoodworking.com Visa/MC accptd.

CLEANING SERVICES

A MAID FOR YOU Bonded/Insured.Park Cities/ M Streets Refs. Call Us First. Joyce 214-232-9629

AFFORDABLE CLEANING Insd./Bonded. Move In/Out. Routine Cleaning. Reliable. Dependable.

Residential/ Commercial. References. 28+yrs. Delta Cleaning. 972-943-9280.

AFFORDABLE, PROFESSIONAL CLEANING

$100 off 1st clean for new weekly/bi-weekly clients. Staff trained by Nationally Certified Cleaning Tech. Chemical-free, Green, or Traditional Cleaning. WindsorMaidServices.com 214-381-MAID (6243)

ALTOGETHER CLEAN

Relax ...We’ll Clean Your House, It Will Be Your Favorite Day! Bonded & Insurance. Free Estimates. 214-929-8413. www. altogetherclean.net

AMAZON CLEANING

Top To Bottom Clean. Fabiana.469-951-2948

CINDY’S HOUSE CLEANING 15 yrs exp. Resd/Com. Refs. Dependable. 214-490-0133

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

LAKEWOOD ELECTRICAL Local. Insured. Lic. #227509 Call Rylan 214-434-8735

TEXAS ELECTRICAL • 214-289-0639

Prompt, Honest, Quality. TECL 24668

TH ELECTRIC Reasonable Rates. Licensed & Insured. Ted. E257 214-808-3658

WHITE ROCK ELECTRIC All Electrical Services. Lic/Insd. E795. 214-850-4891

EXTERIOR CLEANING

G&G DEMOLITION Tear downs, Haul. Interior/Exterior. 214-808-8925

FENCING & DECKS

#1 COWBOY FENCE & IRON CO. Est. ‘91. 214-692-1991 www.cowboyfenceandiron.com

4 QUALITY FENCING Call Mike 214-507-9322 Specializing in Wood, New or Repair.

AMBASSADOR FENCE INC. EST. 96 Automatic Gates, Fences/Decks, ambassadorfenceco.com 214-621-3217

FENCING & WOODWORK oldgatefence.com charliehookerswoodwork.com 214-766-6422

FLOORING & CARPETING

Restoration Flooring

Hardwood Installation · Hand Scraping Sand & Finish · Dustless

ALL CONCRETE RESTORATION & Decorative Designs. Staining 214-916-8368

BRICK & STONE REPAIR

Tuck Pointing / Crack Repair. Mortar Color Matching. Windows,Doors, Cracks Etc. Don 214-704-1722

BRICK, BLOCK, Stone, Concrete, Stucco. Gonzalez Masonry. 214-395-1319

BRICK, STONEWORK, FLAGSTONE PATIOS Mortar Repair. Straighten Brick Mailboxes & Columns. Call Cirilo 214-298-7174

CONCRETE REPAIRS/REPOURS

Demo existing. Stamping and Staining Driveways/Patio/Walkways

Pattern/Color available

Free Estimates 972-672-5359 (36 yrs.)

CONCRETE, Driveway Specialist Repairs, Replacement, Removal, References. Reasonable. Chris 214-770-5001

EDMONDSPAVING.COM Asphalt & Concrete Driveway-Sidewalk-Patio-Repair 214-957-3216

FLAGSTONE PATIOS, Retaining Walls, BBQ’s, Veneer, Flower Bed Edging, All Stone work. Chris 214-770-5001

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

ANTHONY’S ELECTRIC Master Electrician. TECL24948 anthonyselectricofdallas.com

50 Yrs. Electrical Exp. Insd. 214-328-1333

BRIGHT LIGHT ELECTRIC • 214-553-5333

TECL 31347 Lighting and Electrical Services

EXPERIENCED LICENSED ELECTRICIAN Insd. Steve. TECL#27297 214-718-9648

HANNAWOODWORKS.COM

Decks, Pergolas, Patio Covers. 214-435-9574

KIRKWOOD FENCE & DECK

New & Repair. Free Estimates. Nathan Kirkwood. 214-341-0699

LONESTARDECKS.COM 214-357-3975

Trex Decking & Fencing, trex.com

All Wood Decks, Arbors & Patio Covers 214.692.1991

EST. 1991 #1 SPECIALIZING IN Wood Fences &Auto Gates

COWBOY

cowboyfenceandiron.com

Northlake Fence and Deck

Locally owned and operated by the Mccaffrey family since1980

214-349-9132

www.northlakefence.com

FLOORING & CARPETING

ALL WALKS OF FLOORS 214-616-7641

Carpet, Wood, Tile Sales/Service Free Estimates

HASTINGS STAINED CONCRETE

New/Remodel. Stain/Wax Int/Ext. Nick. 214-341-5993. www.hastingsfloors.com

469.774.3147

restorationflooring.net

25+ Years Experience Willeford hardwood floors

Superior Quality: Installation • Refinishing Repair Cleaning & Waxing

Old World Hand Scrape 214-824-1166

FOUNDATION REPAIR

OPTIMUM FOUNDATION SERVICES

Reliable, cost-effective foundation repair. We are dedicated foundation specialists who bring customized solutions. Free estimates and transferable warranties. Contact us for an easy, no-obligation consultation. 214-500-0351 Info@optimumfoundationservices.com

• Slabs • Pier & Beam

• Mud Jacking • Drainage

• Free Estimates

• Over 20 Years Exp. 972-288-3797

We Answer Our Phones

GARAGE SERVICES

GARAGE DOORS & OPENERS 972-521-6567. install, Repair, Service, Sales.

ROCKET GARAGE DOOR SERVICE - 24/7. Repairs/Installs. 214-533-8670. Coupon On Web. www.RocketDoorService.com

UNITED GARAGE DOORS AND GATES Res/Com. Locally Owned.214-826-8096

GLASS, WINDOWS & DOORS

EAST DALLAS WINDOW CLEANING Power Wash. Free Est. Dependable. Derek. 214-360-0120

LAKE HIGHLANDS GLASS & MIRROR frameless shower enclosures • store fronts replacement windows • mirrors 214-349-8160

ROCK GLASS CO Replace, repair: windows, mirrors, showers, screens. 214-837-7829

HANDYMAN SERVICES

A R&G HANDYMAN Electrical, Plumbing, Painting, Fencing, Roofing, Light Hauling. Ron or Gary 214-622-7488, 469-878-8044

ALL STAR HOME CARE Carpentry, Glass, Tile, Paint, Doors, Sheetrock Repair, and more. 25 yrs. exp. References. Derry 214-505-4830

HANDYMAN SERVICES

BO HANDYMAN Specializing In Historic Home Renovations & Pro Remodels. Custom Carpentry, Doors, Kitchens, Baths & more. 214-437-9730

G & P HANDYMAN Plumbing, AC, Electrical, Painting, Roofing, Fix Appliances. 214-576-6824

HANDY DAN The Handyman. ToDo’s Done Right. handy-dan.com 214-252-1628

HANDYMAN SPECIALIST Residential/

Commercial. Large, small jobs, repair list, renovations. Refs. 214-489-0635

HOMETOWN HANDYMAN All phases of construction. No job too small 214-327-4606

HONEST, SKILLED SERVICE With a Smile. General Repairs/ Maintenance. 214-215-2582

Your Home Repair Specialists

Drywall Doors

Senior Safety

Carpentry

KITCHEN/BATH/ TILE/GROUT

TK REMODELING 972-533-2872

Complete Full Service Repairs, Remodeling, Restoration. Name It — We do it. Tommy. Insured. dallas.tkremodelingcontractors.com

TOM HOLT TILE 30 Yrs Experience In Tile, Backsplashes & Floors. Refs. Avail. 214-770-3444

LAWNS, GARDENS & TREES

AYALA’S LANDSCAPING SERVICE

Call the Land Expert Today! Insured. 214-773-4781

CHUPIK TREE SERVICE

Trim, Remove, Stump Grind. Free Est. Insured. 214-823-6463

DALLAS K.D.R.SERVICES • 214-349-0914

Lawn Service & Landscape Installation

Small & Odd Jobs And More! 972-308-6035

HandymanMatters.com/dallas

Bonded & Insured. Locally owned & operated.

HOUSE PAINTING

1 AFFORDABLE HOUSE PAINTING and Home Repair. Quality work.

Inside and Out. Free Ests. Local Refs. Ron 972-816-5634

A+ INT/EXT PAINT & DRYWALL

Since 1977. Kirk Evans. 972-672-4681

BENJAMIN’S PAINTING SERVICE Professional Work At Reasonable Prices. 214-725-6768

MANNY’S HOME PAINTING & REMODEL Int./Ext. Sheetrock. Manny 214-334-2160

OAK CLIFF PAINT MASTERS Interior & Exterior - Free quote at no obligation 214-650-3981

RAMON’S INT/EXT PAINT Sheetrock, Repairs. 214-679-4513

TOP COAT 30 yrs. exp. Reliable, Quality Repair/Remodel Phil @ 214-770-2863

VIP PAINTING & DRYWALL Int/Ext. Sheetrock Repair, Resurfacing Tubs, Counters, Tile Repairs. 469-774-7111

KITCHEN/BATH/TILE/ GROUT

BLAKE CONSTRUCTION CONCEPTS LLC

Complete Kitchen And Bath Remodels. Tile, Granite, Marble, Travertine, Slate. Insured. 214-563-5035 www.blake-construction.com

FENN CONSTRUCTION Full Service Contractor. dallastileman.com 214-343-4645

MELROSE TILE James Sr., Installer, Repairs. 40 Yrs. Exp. MelroseTile.com 214-384-6746

STONE AGE COUNTER TOPS Granite, Marble, Tile, Kitchen/Bath Remodels. 972-276-9943.stoneage.dennis@verizon.net

KITCHEN/BATH/ TILE/GROUT

LAWNS, GARDENS & TREES

HOLMAN IRRIGATION

Sprinkler & Valve Repair/ Rebuild Older Systems. Lic. #1742. 214-398-8061

LIGHT IT UP DALLAS

Your lighting specialists. 972-591-8383 Parties, Weddings, Patios, Landscape.

LSI LAWN SPRINKLERS “Making Water Work”

Irrigation system Service & Repair. Specializing In Older Copper Systems. LI #13715. 214-283-4673

• Tubs, Tiles or Sinks

• Cultured Marble

• Kitchen Countertops

214-631-8719

WE REFINISH! www.allsurfacerefinishing.com

LAWNS, GARDENS & TREES

#1 WHITE ROCK TREE WIZARDS

Professionals, Experts, Artists. Trim, Remove, Cabling, Bracing/Bolting. Cavity-Fill Stump Grind. Emergencies, Hazards. Insd. Free Est. 972-803-6313. arborwizard.com

A BETTER TREE MAN Trims, Removals, Insd. 12 Yrs Exp. Roberts Tree Service. 214-808-8925

A&B LANDSCAPING Degreed Horticulturist. Landscape & Stone Work. 214-538-9625

ORTIZ LAWNCARE Complete Yard Care. Service by Felipe. Free Est. 214-215-3599

TRACY’S LAWN CARE • 972-329-4190

Lawn Mowing & Leaf Cleaning

U R LAWN CARE Maintenance. Landscaping. Your Personal Yard Service by Uwe Reisch uwereisch@yahoo.com 214-886-9202

YOUR TREES could look like a WORK OF ART, I Guarantee It. Call

PLUMBING

A2Z PLUMBING 214-727-4040

All Plumbing Repairs. Slab Leak Specialists. Licensed & Insured. ML# M36843.

AC PLUMBING Repairs, Fixtures, Senior Discounts. Gary Campbell. 214-321-5943

ANDREWS PLUMBING • 214-354-8521

# M37740 Insured. Any plumbing issues. plumberiffic69@gmail.com

Sewers • Drains • Bonded 24 Hours/7 Days

*Joe Faz 469-346-1814 - Se Habla Español*

ARRIAGA PLUMBING: General Plumbing

Since the 80’s. Insured. Lic# M- 20754 214-321-0589, 214-738-7116, CC’s accepted.

HAYES PLUMBING INC. Repairs.

Insured, 214-343-1427 License M13238

M&S PLUMBING Quality Work & Prompt Service. Jerry. 214-235-2172. lic.#M-11523

NTX PLUMBING SPEC. LLLP 214-226-0913

Lic. M-40581 Res/Com. Repairs & Leak Location

214-328-7371

MetroFlowPlumbing.com

Lic.# M16620

POOLS

LEAFCHASERS POOL SERVICE Parts/Service. Chemicals/Repairs. Jonathan. 214-729-3311

REMODELING

BLAKE CONSTRUCTION CONCEPTS, LLC Complete Remodeling, Kitchens, Baths, Additions. Hardie Siding & Replacement Windows. Build On Your Own Lot. Insured. www.blake-construction.com 214-563-5035

BO HANDYMAN Specializing In Historic Home Renovations & Pro Remodels. Custom Carpentry, Doors, Kitchens, Baths & more. 214-437-9730

FENN CONSTRUCTION Full Service Contractor. dallastileman.com 214-343-4645

O’BRIEN GROUP INC. Remodeling Dallas For Over 17 Years www.ObrienGroupInc.com 214-341-1448

RENOVATE DALLAS renovatedallas.com 214-403-7247

ROOFING & GUTTERS

GUARDIAN ROOFING & SOLAR

1995

Jeff Godsey Roofing

Roof Repair Specialist

• Exterior Repair & Re-Roofing

• Insurance Claims

• Custom Chimney Caps

30+ Yrs. in Business • Major Additions Complete Renovations • Kitchens/Baths

214-341-1155

bobmcdonaldco.net

Bob McDonald Company, Inc. BUILDERS/REMODELERS Chandler Design Group Design / Build / Renovate we'll turn your vision into reality

Heath Chandler 214.938.8242

• Licensed & Fully Insured Jeff Godsey 214-502-7287 Residential • Commercial (214) 503-7663

ONLY IN PRESTON HOLLOW LISTENING

TO LAURA BUSH

Former First Lady and Preston Hollow resident Laura Bush was the debut speaker at the newly unveiled performance hall at Edgemere this summer. She regaled a packed house with stories about her time in the spotlight, 9/11 and life after leaving the White House, adding that she and President George W. Bush’s greatest happiness of late has been serving as grandparents to granddaughters Mila and Poppy. The new performance hall will host speakers, music and other events for Edgemere residents, part of a $36 million overhaul happening at the senior living center. (Photos by Danny Fulgencio)

READING THE NEIGHBORHOOD

THERE ARE MANY AUTHORS AMONG US HERE IN PRESTON HOLLOW

What do a preschool teacher’s assistant, intimacy expert, retired corporate communications executive, and architectural engineer all have in common? They dared to take the concepts swimming in their heads, write them down, publish their work and thus became authors.

Krys Batts is the owner of a pet sitting service and a senior technical business analyst who has penned three novels, “Walls Fall Down,” “Not Flowers, but Love” and “What’s Done in the Dark.” She had become increasingly discontented with most of the female protagonists she found in books, so she set out to create the characters she yearned to encounter.

Daniel Darrouzet has wanted to write mysteries on and off for years, and he finally wrote a 300-page book of short stories titled, “Stories from the Tin Box: Untold Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.” Darrouzet, an architectural engineer and adjunct professor in the Civil Engineering Department at UT Arlington, self-published his stories as an eBook. He’s an advocate of self-publishing because he says it’s a quick way to solicit feedback and it allows for corrections when needed.

Another mystery writer and online retail seller of law enforcement supplies, Mark Gessner , came up with his murder mystery idea over a period of months while geocaching with friends. His first and only book, “First to Find,” was self-published through lulu.com. Gessner says there used to be a stigma associated with self-publishing back in the ‘70s, but fast forward to the 21st century and “technology has made it possible for works that would be too much of a niche product but can now be seen in genuine print. Print on demand and eBook distribution means there’s little to no upfront cost.”

Preschool teaching assistant and author Cynthia Boone has been quite busy the past two years. In 2014 she self-published her first fiction novel, “Where Have You Been?” She writes romantic suspense stories, has published a total of five books and is working on her sixth one this summer. “A few readers have likened my writing style to authors Nicholas Sparks, Kristin Hannah and Sidney Sheldon,” Boone says. “Quite flattering but I would never compare myself to those masters. I am not trying to be the next anyone. I am my own unique flavor.”

Carla Kienast began writing short stories in grade school, then worked for her high school newspaper and made her living in corporate communications. One day she woke up inspired to write the storyline of her book, “Wake Up with Fleas,” an adult fiction/suspense novel — very different from the type of writing she was used to doing in her job. Kienast offers this advice to would-be writers: “Write because you love the story if you don’t love the story, it will show in your writing and the book will suffer.”

Michele Wahlder is the author of “Alphatudes: The Alphabet of Gratitude,” an inspirational, non-fiction book that was conceived at a time when she wasn’t feeling grateful at all. Wahlder had been going through cancer treatment — she wasn’t sleeping and felt down. One night, the idea of gratitude filled her thoughts. She began using the structure of the alphabet, like she had done as a child. By thinking of things she was grateful for while going through the alphabet one letter at a time, she found a way to ease into sleep. UT

Southwestern Medical Center gives a copy of

her book to every newly diagnosed breast cancer patient and the book has been distributed to various hospitals, including Olivia Newton John’s cancer hospital in Sydney, Australia.

Dr. Kat Smith , author of nine books and an intimacy expert, also has used the ABCs in her latest 74-page book called, “ABCs of Intimacy.” Smith has served as president of local author groups such as The Writer’s Guild of Texas and The Writers Block. When she speaks, she encourages other authors to dump from their brain 20 things they wish to share in their book, and use those as the major points or chapters. Then, just write. “Allow writing to be a journey and to be fun, especially if you have a passion for it,” she says.

Diane Drake Burns , an administrative assistant and author, grew tired of wishing she was an author and just started writing. She began with screenplays and stories, but it was a non-fiction book, “Autism, Aspergers, ADD, ADHD: A Parent’s Roadmap to Understanding and Support,” that was published in 2005 by Future Horizons. She says, “Having a child with autism motivated me to write something for the parent who needs a gentle introduction to their child’s differences.” Ten years later, she self-published the novel, “Final Arrangements,” which is about a mother’s garden club growing some illegal plants in their silver closets.

All these books can be found on Amazon.com.

LAUREN LAW is a former health care marketing executive, and is a neighborhood resident, marketing consultant, writer, wife, mom and volunteer. She writes about neighborhood issues or community areas of interest. Her opinions are not necessarily those of the Advocate or its management. Send comments and ideas to her llaw@advocatemag.com.

You’ve chosen the right neighborhood, now choose the right Realtor.

Preston Hollow has always had a special place in the heart of Dallas. Ours, too. We’ve been living and working here for over four decades–and no one knows this neighborhood quite like we do. If you’re looking for something exceptional here in Preston Hollow, start with an exceptional team of Realtors. Visit virginiacook.com.

6307 Stefani

PRICE REDUCED

4627

4432 Hockaday Drive

$1,780,000. Stunning home with meticulous finish-out! Beautiful staircase, white oak floors, quartz counters! Oversized master! Upstairs game room!

$2,799,000 New Construction! Clean line modern on .43 acre lot! Open floor plan and culinary kitchen! White and grey palate!

Lori Sparks. 214.680.6432

Simone Jeanes 214.616.9559

10751 Camellia Drive

$1,119,000 Open & bright with huge backyard! Granite kitchen opens to Den. Five bedrooms + study + game/media! Close to Central Market & St Marks!

Lori Sparks 214.680.6432

$1,090,000. Updated & expanded on gorgeous treed lot with pool! 4 BRs & 3 living areas! Granite kitchen opens to den! Master has sitting room & 2 walk-in closets! Lori Sparks. 214.680.6432

10442 Coppedge

$1,749,000 Exquisite modern home with open concept design on .38 acre! Professional grade appliances! Stone quartz fireplace! Outdoor cooking area!

Simone Jeanes 214.616.9559

$1,500,000. Spectacular opportunity on this 80 x 145 building site! Beautiful backyard landscaping, electronic gate, cabana and pool! Simone Jeanes. 214.616.9559

6924 Desco Drive

$765,000. Charming updated home with elegant formals! Oversized den! Updated gourmet kitchen! Large game room! Beautiful backyard with pool/spa! Don Thomas. 214.641.7001

$995,000 Custom built with high ceilings & stately presence on lush .489 acre! Game Room, Study, 4 Car Garage! Stunning pool & Koi pond!

Lori Sparks 214.680.6432

$1,190,000. Updated & open in Russwood Acres! 4 or 5 BRs, wood floors, granite kitchen, master with sitting room, plantation shutters & picture perfect pool & yard! Lori Sparks. 214.680.6432

$1,295,000 Spectacular home built with real attention to quality and detail. Gorgeous backyard with fabulous pool. Lushly landscaped. Don Thomas 214.641.7001

4116

Deep Valley Drive

$599,000. Extensive updating! Gourmet kitchen with granite countertops! Oversized, updated master bath! Huge backyard! Don Thomas. 214.641.7001

$650,000 Spectacular updated Gourmet Kitchen! Incredible attention to Detail. Extensive updating. Fabulous master bath. A Real Showstopper!

Don Thomas 214.641.7001

7127 Joyce Way

4029 Cedarbrush Drive11115 Wonderland Trail

4324 Twin Post Rd

PRICE REDUCED

$440,000. Charm and character! Lush landscaping! Oversized living & dining areas! Park-like backyard with oversized patio!

$650,000 Outstanding 4 bedroom, 4 baths with living room, dining room and den! Nicely updated! Art Studio or workshop in fabulous backyard!

Don Thomas. 214.641.7001

Don Thomas 214.641.7001

$599,000. Wonderful 4 bedroom, 4 bath! Terrific updated kitchen, handsome wood floors, private backyard with nice pool Towering trees! Great Sunroom! Don Thomas. 214.641.7001

$565,000 Renovated 4 bedroom home in Windsor Park! Great floor plan! Vaulted beamed ceiling in Den! Large, open kitchen! Many built-ins! Soozie Bul 214.673.6259

$300,000. Wonderful 2/2 duplex with open floor plan! Gourmet kitchen & master bath, fresh carpet & paint! Oversized second living area great for entertaining! Soozie Bul. 214.673.6259

$545,000 Meticulously maintained 4 bedroom home! Split formals allows for living room to be study or media! Many improvements! Large yard and Pool!

Simone Jeanes 214.616.9559

Alta Vista Lane