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FEATURES 26 RISE UP

These graduating high school seniors have taken hits, but they refuse to stay down.

PHOTO BY DANNY FULGENCIO;

PHOTO BY KATHY TRAN

ON THE

PHOTO BY DANNY FULGENCIO

“The far right thought I should have condemned

The other side thought I wasn’t advocating enough for them.” Kurt Neale, filmmaker, on making “Compelling

page 16

OPENING REMARKS

By RICK WAMRE

Cultivating character

bye, no hug, no life-changing revelation.

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Not long ago, I found myself face down on the scruffy front yard of a nonprofit near downtown, doing two things I generally avoid: planting and volunteering.

There are people who love getting their hands dirty; I am not one of those. Couple that with my general laziness when it comes to helping others, and it was not starting out to be a fun Saturday.

So while pondering my imminent fate and breaking in my new gloves, a young boy walked up and asked if he could help.

I looked around: Why would any kid volunteer to help a stranger plant stuff?

But he was interested in helping beautify his new home, an Exodus Ministries apartment complex for previously incarcerated women with dependent children.

Yes, you read that right. The 11 mother-and-children family units here have messed up their lives enough that they’re below the bottom of the economic food chain. The mothers all have been locked up — some of them five, six, seven times

and have dependent children, no husbands, no jobs and a small sack of belongings when they show up straight from jail/prison at Exodus, said to be the only nonprofit of its kind in Texas.

The 11-year-old boy asking to help dig in the dirt is one of those kids. Most of us spend more on lunch in a week than his mother will see in a month, and that’s if she’s lucky enough to find a job.

I would like to tell you that this young man and I shared an incredible bonding experience, that we each changed our lives for the better that day.

Instead, I showed him how to dig holes for plant balls and how to cover them up, which he did for 10 minutes or so before jumping up and running off — no good-

But the kid gave me something to think about. He has nothing except what volunteers have given him, and his mother has 12 months (the length of the Exodus program) to figure out how to make their way in a world where she’s generally not welcome, most often as a felon whose dreams no longer include college, a new car or even a basic “happy ending.”

We can say it’s her fault she’s in this predicament, but we’ve all made some big mistakes in life. Some of us pay for those mistakes forever; some of us get lucky and just move on.

Who knows why we rarely walk in others’ shoes?

If the mother graduates from the Exodus program, she has a chance: Thanks to volunteers and donors, she leaves with an apartment full of furniture, on-site education about finances and being a parent, and a close-knit family of fellow travelers.

The general recidivism rate for people in this situation is about 75 percent, Exodus says; this program reduces that to about 4 percent.

I continued digging holes, frequently glancing down the line of still-unplanted groundcover, knowing that in an hour or two, my volunteer experience would be over. When the kid returned, would his life be better because of what I had done that day?

Like the hard-luck high school seniors we’re profiling in this month’s magazine, this kid needs someone to look up to for more than 10 minutes, someone to help him and his family find their way. And there are hundreds of nonprofits here brimming with similar stories.

The high school seniors found the guidance they need. The person this boy needs is out there, too. Will he find you or me in time to make a difference?

Learn more about Exodus Ministries at exodusministries.org.

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

Sally Ackerman

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Nora Jones

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digital + social media director: Emily Williams

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EDITORIAL

publisher: Christina Hughes Babb

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managing editor: Emily Charrier

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editor-at-large: Keri Mitchell

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Elissa Chudwin

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art director: Brian Smith

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designer: Emily Williams

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contributing editors: Sally Wamre

contributors: Angela Hunt, Lauren Law, George Mason, Kristen Massad, Brent McDougal

photo editor: Danny Fulgencio

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contributing photographers: Rasy Ran, Kathy Tran

set forth in the

are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s viewpoint. More than 200,000 people read Advocate publications each month. Advertising rates and guidelines are available upon request. Advocate publications are available free of charge throughout our neighborhoods, one copy per reader. Advocate was founded in 1991 by Jeff Siegel, Tom Zielinski and Rick Wamre.

Can a child whose birthright is poverty and a troubled family history blossom?

MLS Data backs us up here. Dave Perry-Miller Real Estate closed out 2016 in Lake Highlands and East Dallas with:

$451 Million in Sales and 15.4% Market Share (closest competitor, 9.8%)

When you’re ready for the services of the East Dallas powerhouse to help you buy or sell:

L A UNC H

MAY 29

Play date

Run the Sweeney 5k or 1k and spend the day with family. Camp Sweeney partnered with the Lake Highlands Public Improvement District for Play for the Day to raise awareness of juvenile diabetes. Lake Highlands Town Center, 7100 Wildcat Way, campsweeney.org, $35 for 5k, otherwise free

Out & About

MAY 5-27

‘JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH’

The Dallas Children’s Theater tackles

Roald Dahl’s whimsical tale about a boy who escapes his cruel aunts on a giant peach. The performance is recommended for children ages 5 and older.

Dallas Children’s Theater, 5938 Skillman St., 214.978.0110, dct.org, $15-$28

MAY 5

ACOUSTIC SHOW

Houston-based musician Brian Kalinec performs after up-and-coming artist Amy Vanessa Goloby shares her sentimental folk songs. The show starts at 8 p.m.

Uncle Calvin’s Coffee Shop, 9555 N. Central Expressway, 214.363.0044, unclecalvins.org, $15-$18

MAY 6

ART FOR THE AGES

C. C. Young’s Spirit is Ageless Awards & Celebration highlights the creativity of local artists and writers, regardless of their age. Lily Cabatu Weiss, executive director of the Dallas Arts District, is the guest speaker. RSVP is required.

The Point at C. C. Young, 4847 W. Lawther Drive, suite 100, 214.841.2831, ccyoung.org, free

MAY 10

‘ARE YOU MY MOTHER?’

Mrs. Pocket’s Puppet Playtime reimagines the beloved children’s book “Are You My Mother?” Bring the kiddos to see the performance at 10:30 a.m. Bookmarks at NorthPark Center, 8687 N. Central Expressway, 214.671.1381 dallaslibrary2.org, free

MAY 19-JUNE 21

‘ARSENIC AND OLD LACE’

Homicide isn’t typically hilarious, but the dark comedy has entertained audiences for 76 years. Watch the wacky antics of Mortimer Brewster and his bloodthirsty aunts.

Pocket Sandwich Theater, 5400 E. Mockingbird Lane, 214.821.1860, pocketsandwich.com, $12-$25

MAY 26

REFUGEE STORIES

Three teenagers from the Vickery Meadow area share incredible stories of survival and resettlement. A panel of community experts discuss the realities of transition and daily struggles that refugees face. The event, from 6-8 p.m., is presented by World Affairs Council and Dallas ISD. Conrad High School, 7502 Fair Oaks Ave., wacdfw.org, free

FACING FEARS

A Lake Highlands filmmaker uses personal stories about sensitive subjects to build bridges

By CHRISTINA HUGHES BABB

Kurt Neale makes meaningful movies and gives them away.

Devastation. Nightmare. A living hell. Just a few descriptors used by subjects of Kurt Neale’s latest feature-length documentary, “ASK,” in attempt to explain addiction. “I mean, I hate myself, on a regular basis,” says an alcoholic named Caleb. Another drug addict’s mother cries, trying to explain co-dependency. “When you see all the things you were doing to help your child, and in fact you were like an accomplice …”

A co-dependent person, typically a parent or a spouse, is on the same hamster wheel as the addict they love, viewers learn. By attempting to control an uncontainable illness, they might inadvertantly allow it to continue.

Our nation is in the midst of an unprecedented opioid epidemic. Since 1999, deaths related to opiate overdose has quadrupled, according to the United States Department of Health and Human Services. The crisis drew Neale to create the documentary about addiction and co-dependency, “a less recognizable problem,” notes the film’s opening slide. In the process it became more personal as Neale and his wife learned their own son was battling substance abuse.

“It blew up our world. We would never have seen our own co-dependency without what our son went through,” he says. The Neales’ son does not appear in the interviews, but the family’s experience contributes to “the spirit of true recovery” in which the film is made.

Neale and his team (co-producer Taylor Farman, editor Steve Vanderheide, art director Carolyn Wilder, music and sound director Aaron Rose, webmaster Don Dinnerville and associate producer Chico West) follow several recovering addicts and their families. They are seemingly hopeless cases — relatively young people who have been to and from rehab, been given second, third and fourth chances — and their hapless parents

who try everything to get them healthy. Some of the stories take a healing turn when the co-dependent loved one decides to stop enabling the addict. Others are not so satisfying. Even if a loving father does everything right and stops enabling, his child can still die.

“ASK” ends at a treatment center in beautiful Montana where residents partake in an exercise. In a maze, blindfolded, they try to find their way out. Eventually they learn the escape is to ask for help.

Neale, the filmmaker from Lake Highlands, is no stranger to difficult topics, often as they relate to spirituality. His exploratory and pragmatic direction prevents his two full-length documentaries from falling into the “religious” genre. His first, “Compelling Love,” explored gender identity and sexuality. The initial several interviews feature individuals with accepting attitudes toward varying LGBT lifestyles. Just when the progressive viewer is feeling quite comfortable, perhaps, the grinning face of Pastor Robert Jeffress Jr., the southern Baptist minister and Fox News regular known for his “Gay is not OK” sermon, fills the screen. The heart, for some watchers, might turn icy as the pastor suggests that liberals, not the religious right, are the intolerant ones, in his experience.

In “Compelling Love,” “everyone gets to confront someone who makes them uncomfortable, who is on the other side of the table, without having to understand,” Neale says.

With shifts such as this, Neale does what truly good journalists do; he infu-

Filmmaker Kurt Neale’s aim: Love unconditionally and help others do the same.

riates people on both sides.

Criticism came from the more extreme conservatives and liberals, he says.

“The right thought I should have condemned homosexuality. The other side thought I wasn’t advocating enough for them.”

Neale has an agenda, but it has little to do with swaying people’s political stances.

He wants to deconstruct walls made of deep-rooted, complex dogmas. He’s whittled his own faith down to a line delivered by the biblical Jesus when his apostles asked what commandment is most important. The answer: Love God … and each other.

“I am just a weird guy who is very attracted to the person in Jesus Christ. I am not religiously strict — I am a messy follower of Jesus,” Neale says.

“ASK” is about love that transcends seemingly nonsensical, destructive actions as much as it is about healing from addiction or loss.

“Compelling Love” is not really about sexuality or gender or religion. Rather, it is an exercise in listening and loving someone with whom we might never begin to find common ground.

On the filmmaking side, the process is like “birthing a baby,” he says. Neale’s crew is predominately unpaid volunteers who share his vision. “And they have worked so hard to make this happen,” he says.

Both movies were financed by donations.

Professionally, he relies on some of the practices taught in 12-step programs, like “give away freely what has been given to us” and “gaining publicity through attraction rather than promotion.”

Both of his films, following free screenings at local theaters, are available online at no cost.

“There is enough corruption in the recovery industry,” he points out. “We want to humbly, authentically give away what we have created,” he says.

compellinglovefilm.com askdocumentary.com

“I am just a weird guy ... I am not religiously strict — I am a messy follower of Jesus.”

Water Garden, Encaustic on panel 36”x 24” by Elizabeth Schowachert

‘Being Koi’ 21”x 21” pastel by Barbara Mason

CASEY BOLAND

BY CHRISTINA HUGHES BABB

When Casey Boland isn’t teaching United States History she’s likely writ-

ing, tutoring, coaching the academic decathlon team or otherwise enlightening her growing fandom. The spirited educator with a head of blonde curls and a 1,000-wyatt smile has garnered the spotlight of late with her outspokenness on issues related to public education.

TEACHER SPOTLIGHT: LAKE HIGHLANDS HIGH SCHOOL’S

PHOTO BY DANNY FULGENCIO

It is her clever delivery as much as her message that sparks interest from her students and audiences at large. Here’s how she recently described Lake Highlands in a guest column for the national website Brit + Co:

“… a spot on the globe that is an endearing mix of old-school and progressive, sinners and saints, innovative pragmatism and absurd clusterf***ery. We have Daughters of the American Revolution members and refugees, McMansions and shantytowns, religious zealots and hard-core atheists. And my respect for the people who make up this miniUN borders on reverence.”

Boland’s latest writing is related to President Donald Trump’s pick earlier this year for United States Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos, and, subsequently, state-funded vouchers for private education. Boland argues that vouchers directly take desperately needed money from public schools.

In February, her Facebook post entitled “Why people are upset about Betsy DeVos” garnered tens of thousands of comments, shares and reactions, sparked discussions around the nation and brought news reporters to Boland’s door.

Texas lawmakers voted in April to prohibit using taxpayer funding for private schools, expressly forbidding vouchers, a victory for public schools in Boland’s eyes.

The passion, on both sides of the issue, is something anyone can understand, Boland says.

“It stems from fact that we’re talking about kids — most people are impassioned about kids, theirs or otherwise.”

Boland’s pastor, Mark Wingfield of Wilshire Baptist, points out (as he publicly shared Boland’s column on Facebook) that the DeVos/voucher frustration resonates with Republicans and Democrats alike in this part of Dallas, “because we value our public schools not only for our kids but for all kids.”

For many years, Boland has been a respected voice from the Lake Highlands community and high school; she’s written several opinion columns for the Dallas Morning News, covering topics including racism in the classroom, standardized testing and the art of engaging teenagers in conversation, to name a few.

Political leanings nonwithstanding, students say they appreciate a teacher

All square footage is NOT created equal.

Often, we receive phone calls from potential clients, friends, and family for a “rough estimate” or “ballpark figure” for a home project. Our response to that question is usually received with frustration, because without knowing many details about the project, we can’t provide an accurate cost. Why is this the case? We’ll explain through the exercises below.

Which is the most cost effective to build?

Answer:

The square is the most cost effective to build. The total amount of linear feet (the sum of the length of each side) of exterior walls is greater for the rectangle. This means more building materials (brick, windows, concrete, etc.) are required.

Shape and size directly affect the cost, but that’s only half of the equation. Follow the next exercise below.

Which room has the highest price per square foot to build?

Answer:

This is a bit of a trick question because some assumptions would have to be made, such as the structure (walls, windows and doors) was already built so just the interior is new, and the furniture is not included in the cost. Even so, the kitchen would have the highest price per square foot. This bedroom would be the least price per square foot; it has a simple shape and finishes include carpet and one color of paint. This office has custom built shelving, wood flooring and two colors of paint making it a bit more costly. A kitchen includes many different components (cabinets, countertops, tile, lighting and plumbing fixtures) which tend to have higher price tags and likely have different trades for installation. A kitchen also includes appliances which tend to be costly, making this room the one with the highest price per square foot.

Given those exercises, you can see why it’s tough to just throw out a number for project cost without knowing all of the facts. We prefer to educate potential clients so they understand how the dollars add up by breaking down each line item. The value of your square footage is based on the content you choose. It’s important to be sure your construction team helps you maximize your investment.

Darin Breedlove, CR, CGR, CGP, CAPS, Sara Haley, & Lance Tyler

who is well-informed about subjects that can be confusing.

“Amidst the chaos that is the current political climate, I am making it practice to learn as much as I can from people who know more than me about important issues,” notes former student Cecelia Cox. “That is why I am so grateful for my high school U.S. history teacher, Ms. Boland.”

Administrators at the high school say Boland’s enthusiasm and compassion make her unique among teachers.

“She is passionate with everything she does, and her students love her because of her enthusiasm and passion for history. Plus, she really cares for her students,” says Karen Clardy, who, until last year, served 25 years as the school’s executive secretary. Clardy still regularly breaks bread with Boland and a few other teachers, where the dinner conversation is reliably “stimulating and enlightening.”

“Casey’s excitement is contagious for subjects that she feels strongly about. She is the underdog’s hero, which comes through in her Facebook writings. Whether you agree with her or not, you know she speaks from the heart, and that makes it OK.”

Boland’s readiness to speak out is rooted in early childhood experience, she says. “The shaping of ideas stemmed from my unbelievably cool parents.”

The Texas A&M alumnus was born in Bangkok, where her folks worked as teachers following her father’s military

Teaching wasn’t her first choice.

“I knew what teachers went through. It was hard work that often didn’t pay off.” But one day she walked out of a job she hated and realized, like it or not, her call to education. She’s been at Lake Highlands High School since winter 1998.

Imparting history lessons and facilitating political discussions comes naturally to Boland, though this year has been a little “weird,” she says. Immigration and refugee issues are highly personal to a large portion of LHHS students.

service in Vietnam. The family soon moved to Texas, bringing home two Vietnamese refugees. Her dad leaned conservative, while Mom was more liberal, and from the time she was 4, she participated in lively dinner-table discussions, often in far eastern languages, about current events, religion and politics.

“From the outset I had the small Texas town and the world, Buddhist influence as well.”

“The day of a student protest [related to immigration/refugee programs], I pulled aside several who walked out and talked to them, heard their stories,” she says. “The ‘We love immigrants, just legal ones’ is a fine argument until you start hearing these heart-wrecking tales about why they left and why they can’t go back.”

She says those with differing opinions need not worry. “I tell parents, my politics, my faith, won’t have a bearing on your kid. I’m not teaching them what to think. I’m teaching how to think.”

“From the outset, I had the small Texas town and the world, Buddhist influence as well.”

WHAT GIVES?

APPRECIATE NATIVE PLANTS ...

The North Texas Master Naturalists host Native Plants and Prairies Day, Saturday, May 6, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The day includes 15 expert-guided wildflower and prairie walks; 30 demonstrations and booths, including raptor and snake displays; a local nature-inspired art sale; a climate change presentation and project; raffle; children’s activities and food trucks. The free family function focuses on the benefits native plants have to offer the environment. Proceeds from raffle benefits the NTMN, a nonprofit dedicated to developing a corps of educated volunteers who provide outreach and service related to the management of natural areas and resources within our neighborhoods.

It takes place at the Bath House Cultural Center at White Rock Lake, 521 E. Lawther. Call 214.670.8749 or visit ntmn. org for more information.

SEE SHORT FILMS BY WOMEN ...

The nine short movies screening at LunaFest were created by women and explore topics ranging from refugee camps to synchronized swimming. The event benefits Zonta Club of Dallas. Founded in 1924, the nonprofit is the oldest service club in the city and is a member of Zonta International, a 90-year global organization of executives and professionals in business working together to advance the status of women worldwide. The mini festival takes place May 10 at Angelika Film Center, 5321 E. Mockingbird Lane. Visit lunafest.org for showtimes and to purchase $40 passes.

How important is it to stage my home?

Things to consider

What to do when the house looks great from the outside, but when the buyer goes inside to explore the rooms, they’re disappointed? The kitchen is cluttered and “feels” small. The living room seems too wide. The master bedroom doesn’t look comfortable at all. Should the buyer strike this home off their list of possibilities?

Maybe. Maybe not. You see, there may be any number of reasons why a room doesn’t look appealing. Some of those reasons may have little to do with the size and configuration of the space.

For example, a bedroom might look tight and uncomfortable because there are two over-sized dressers taking up most of the space, making the room feel cluttered. Without them the room could be ideal.

The kitchen might seem small because the toaster, coffee maker, spice rack and numerous other items are using up all the counter space. If you can imagine those gone, you might see how roomy the kitchen could feel.

Consider the possibilities for each room, not just how the room actually looks now.

If you’re selling your home, don’t take chances with a buyer’s perception. Staging for optimum sales appeal is very important. Staging is just one of the many added value services Deborah Whitington Realty provides to their clients at no additional charge. We also offer empty house staging. Give us a call to find out more about all of our exceptional services.

KNOW OF WAYS that neighbors can spend time, attend an event, or purchase or donate something to benefit a neighborhood nonprofit?

Email your suggestion to launch@ advocatemag.com

HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?

Building community at the White Rock East Garden Tour

By EMILY CHARRIER

ith its spacious front yards and tall shade trees, it’s clear to see where Forest Hills and Little Forest Hills got their apt names. These are neighborhoods that cherish green space, made apparent in the careful attention to detail many homeowners take in perfecting luscious gardens.

“One of the main reasons we bought the house was the garden,” Ron Balentine says of his San Fernando Way home.

PHOTOS BY RASY RAN

Back in the 1980s, the property belonged to noted Master Gardener Delores Cullivan, the White Rock Lake resident behind Artistic Gardenscapes, which designs drool-worthy residential landscapes that range from English rose to drought-tolerant. At her own home, she carved out deliberate paths for the plants to follow, building architectural beauty from flora and fauna. According to neighborhood lore, Cullivan sold the property only after the new owner agreed to allow her to keep tending the garden she so lovingly designed for herself.

But that was years ago.

By the time Balentine bought it in 2014, the yard was dreadfully overgrown, left to flounder without a skilled hand to keep it tended. As longtime gardeners, Balentine and his wife, Julie Dunn, were eager to take on the challenge of restoring the half-acre to its former glory, albeit with their own personal touches.

“I just buy what I like,” Balentine says when asked about his plant preference. “A lot of stuff in here is from my grand-

mother. She was the one who taught me about gardening.”

The couple will unveil their years of hard work at the White Rock East Garden Tour, taking place May 21. You’ll find artists selling handmade creations in their garden, in addition to the annual plant sale, which is set for 9 a.m.-3 p.m. in Casa Linda Park.

The tour is a joint effort of Casa Linda Estates, Forest Hills and Little Forest Hills. All proceeds benefit neighborhood beautification projects along with fun holiday events like the Fourth of July celebration. Lottie Minick, a 25-year Forest Hills resident who volunteers with the tour, says the event has knit the community together in its 16 years.

“It’s brought us all together and allowed us to get to know each other,” Minick says. “It’s so nice to have a reason to meet new neighbors.”

She and other neighborhood volunteers scour the blocks looking for eye-catching gardens to showcase each May. “I walk the alley and peek through

the fences,” Minick admits with a laugh. This year’s tour is an eclectic mix, from modern and manicured to more whimsical. Mallory Becker will showcase her newly installed production garden, complete with leafy greens like kale and chard, tons of tomatoes and peppers, herbs, peach trees and other edible goodies. She calls

it “the farm” and has plans to add a greenhouse and a chicken coop by the pool in her mid-century modern backyard.

“We have four dogs, why not get four chickens?” she smiles. “Honestly, this is all new to me. But my boyfriend and I cook all the time and the idea of having everything fresh is just really exciting.”

Mary Crawford has been refining her polished green space for 18 years, but it will always be a work in progress to

White Rock East Garden Tour

May 21, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tickets: $12.50-$15 whiterockgardentour.org

highlight her outdoor paradise. Thanks to her love of florals, vibrant colors surround her pool and hot tub. Then there’s the outdoor living space, complete with a fireplace, dining table and barbecue, all encased in mosquito netting to keep it bug-free.

“We use it even when it’s in the 50s,” Crawford says. “It stays warm as long as there’s not too much wind.”

DELICIOUS Something for everyone

By ELISSA CHUDWIN

Shrimp and crab martini.

(Photo by Kathy Tran)

Lake House Bar & Grill couldn’t have come to fruition without owner John Schmitz’s family, friends and the book “Running a Bar for Dummies.”

Schmitz wasn’t new to the restaurant business, thanks to a 12-year stint at The Barley House. Even with years of bartending experience under his belt, he admits he had no idea what opening the White Rock establishment would entail.

Schmitz knew he needed help with the day-to-day operations, so he invited his family and friends to his house to pitch his idea. When he said he was quitting his career in logistics sales to open a bar and grill, his dad questioned why

he would jump into a business Schmitz didn’t fully understand.

He wasn’t wrong either, Schmitz says.

“When you go into it, you figure out you don’t know anything,” he says. “Something breaks. Something happens. You’re always somebody’s counselor.”

The first thing Schmitz did was head

to Barnes & Noble to purchase a copy of “Running a Bar for Dummies.” But he never needed to read it, because the masterminds behind bars like Oak Cliff’s Nova and Knox Henderson’s Capitol Pub gave him advice about launching Lake House Bar & Grill.

“The cool thing about people in the

A rich bread pudding. (Photo by Kathy Tran)

DID YOU KNOW: Owner John Schmitz jokingly calls the restaurant a “Poor Man’s Lake House” because you can’t even see White Rock Lake from the parking lot.

restaurant industry is they don’t want you to fail,” Schmitz says. “They want you to succeed.”

Everything else was a matter of trial-and-error.

Four years later, Lake House hasn’t stopped evolving. Situated a half-mile from White Rock Lake, the eatery is the local hot spot for cyclists and runners, Schmitz says. It’s a regular first-date spot, and meet-up groups often plan events at the bar.

“I’m happy about the location and seeing everything around it growing,” he says. “I’m passionate about this area. It’s changing, and it’s changing for the better.”

The neighborhood is one of the reasons Schmitz was adamant about quitting his sales job to open the bar and grill. It reminds him of Austin, his favorite city in Texas, because of its open spaces and walkability, but there weren’t many hangout spots north of the lake until recent years.

“The Lake Highlands/White Rock area needed something like this,” he says.

Now Schmitz and Chef Los Akins are tag-teaming to expand Lake House’s

LAKE HOUSE BAR & GRILL

Ambiance: casual

Price Range: $10-$20

Hours: 4-11 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, 4-11 p.m. Thursday-Friday, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday 7510 Northwest Highway 214.484.8624

lakehousewhiterock.com

motley offerings that range from pub fare to seafood. Popular specials — such as scallops, salmon and meatloaf — will earn a permanent slot on the regular menu. Pizza and grill items are about to become a part of their repertoire, too.

Many of the items are something you’d see at an upscale restaurant, but they’re offered in a laid-back environment. No one has to dress up to order fresh seafood, he says, and that makes it a comfortable place to be.

“I just love making everybody happy,” he says. “I love seeing something you develop on your own blossom.”

"The Dunham Brothers made our real estate

edgeable about the

seamlessly. I would highly recommend

THE STORE IN LAKE HIGHLANDS

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CITY VIEW ANTIQUE MALL

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Call 214.560.4203

Creekside, the new Alamo Drafthouseanchored development at Skillman and Abrams, has signed two new tenants — Bahama Buck’s , a frozen dessert shop, and Mrs. Gridiron , a homemade-meal service.

Bahama Buck’s is a Lubbock, Texas-based business with franchises all over the United States. Area locations include Sachse, Rowlett and, as of April, Far North Dallas. Flavored Sno, smoothies, sodas, mocha frostalattés, paradise fruit and Sno 2 go make up the menu. It is slated to open in 2017. Check advocatemag.com for updates. Mrs. Gridiron — officially Caroline Hattemer, wife of Lake Highlands High School football coach Nathan Hattemer — produces made-from-scratch meals for delivery to Lake Highlands and East Dallas. Several menu items can meet dietary restrictions upon request. “In addition to the freshcooked, from-scratch meals that will still be available for pickup and delivery from

our rotating monthly menu, we will also have ready-to-go items that you can drop in and pick up any time,” Hattemer says. She expects to open in May or early June.

Nearby at Walnut Hill and Audelia, another frozen dessert stand is under construction. Andy’s Frozen Custard, features — in addition to flavored, blended custards — sundaes, banana splits, Coke floats and Italian ice. At time of publication, an opening date had not been announced.

In the same shopping center, expect some changes at Neighbor’s Casual Kitchen. Peter Touris, who opened Neighbor’s in September 2014, recently sold the restaurant to a group of longtime Lake Highlands residents. Touris is returning to the restaurant that has been a part of his own family for decades, Chubby’s on Northwest Highway near Jupiter. New owners, LH Eats, consists of dozens of investors, but expect to see partner/operator Jimmy Cannon, who has experience running restaurants, in house most days. Some of the near-future changes will include minor cosmetic alterations, condensing the menu and adding a couple of items.

Three new foodcentric businesses, and a change to one, coming soon to Lake Highlands

Ice cream aside flavored Sno from Bahama Bucks

PHOTO PROVIDED BY BAHAMA BUCK’S

Thai Opal

Celebrate Mother’s Day at Thai Opal & all mom’s will receive a FREE Appetizer!

We have infused the classical Thai cuisine with a modern ambiance. BYOB welcomed.

• Take out • Lunch Specials

• Now Serving Beer & Wine

• Delivery Available (5 mi. radius)

Another Broken Egg

It’s our passion to create exceptional dishes for breakfast, brunch and lunch that are “craveably” delicious with an artisanal flair.

Papas Crab Cajun Seafood

10% OFF Any Combo Meal

We are Now Open & ready for you to come enjoy our fabulous seafood. We have Lobster Tail, Snow & King Crab Legs, Clams, Shrimp, Catfish and so much more!

Enchilada’s

Voted by Advocate Readers as Best Date Night in Lake Highlands

Warmer weather means it is time for Margaritas and Tex Mex. Come by and let us serve you.

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For Catering Call The Fiesta Line 214.691.1390

Haute

Treat yourself and the ones you love with the finest desserts, French Macarons, cookies, cakes & more. Award winning chefs bring premium restaurant quality treats right to our neighborhood. You’ll be amazed! Paleo & Gluten-free available.

Mon-Fri: 10:00am-7:00pm Sat: 9:00am-6:00pm Sun: Closed

BEATING THE

THE DECK WAS STACKED AGAINST THEM, BUT THESE GRADUATING SENIORS STAYED IN THE GAME

By Christina Hughes Babb

PHOTOS BY DANNY FULGENCIO

ODDS

NO ONE SAID HIGH SCHOOL WAS EASY.

The diploma, for every student, is hard-won. But some Lake Highlands High School graduates have navigated roads that would stop seasoned adults in their tracks. Forced to find their way in a world that often did not accept or understand them, they pressed on — after each stumble, rising again. Despite a dark past and challenging present, they stand an excellent chance of future success on a large scale.

BRILLIANT BLEN

On Oct. 28, 2005, Blen Hussain woke up early to commotion; men’s stern voices filled her home. Her father, Kiflu Hussain, told his wife and children, “Don’t worry. I’ll be back in a few hours,” and he left with the men.

He spent the next year locked away in the infamous Kaliti Prison.

A lawyer, activist and journalist, Kiflu published an editorial alleging corruption in a recent election and regime. To say this prison was overcrowded would be a gross understatement, notes Kiflu. He says he’s seen photos in The Economist magazine of so-called “overcrowded” American prisons, remarking that one cannot find a middle-class hotel in Ethiopia so comfortable. And the Kaliti prison indiscriminately mixed violent assailants, murderers, pedophiles, the mentally ill, political prisoners and juveniles.

“It was a concentration camp,” Kiflu says, “minus the gas, only because they had not figured out the technology.”

There was a point he feared for his life, “but it was my family I worried about.”

Blen’s mother, Tizita Bogale, lost her beloved brother, a college student, in Ethiopia’s violent Red Terror in the late 1970s. Brokenhearted, she rejected activism in favor of religion, but in the mid-1990s she fell for an outspoken revolutionary. When her dear husband Kiflu was imprisoned indefinitely, she was left with their young daughters to make ends meet. She wasn’t the only one, Blen

recalls. Many men, who in her country tended to be financial breadwinners, were locked up or had fled, so there really was no way for families to help each other — everyone was scrimping.

The first time the girls and Tizita visited their father in prison, he stood among a throng of filthy fellow inmates. Blen’s sister, Sophie, 4, looked at the line of prisoners and, guessing a brawl was to blame for her father’s incarceration, asked, “With whom did you fight?”

Her dad, making sure no one was listening, leaned toward her and whispered, “Meles Zenawi” (the Ethiopian dictator).

“I’ll never forget the day I got out, it was drizzling, we were walking, and Sophie asks, ‘Are you now friends with Meles Zenawi?’ ”

He’d forgotten his quip, but the girls had not.

Shortly after his release, Kiflu wanted to write about the conditions of the prison (he eventually did for ethiomedia.com), but he was tipped off that the authorities were returning for him. So he fled.

Police came to the home looking for her dad, Blen recalls. Obtaining a warrant, they ransacked the house. Kiflu applied as a political refugee to bring his family to safety. They met him in Uganda and awaited acceptance to Canada or Australia. There, seven years passed.

Blen eventually gave up, unpinning maps of those faraway countries, which hung wistfully on her bedroom wall. Life in Uganda wasn’t so bad, she says. Dad held out hope, though. He’d become acquainted with American professors who were conducting research in Uganda — they hired him as a translator and offered him a job in Dallas. Two years and umpteen interviews, tests and questionnaires later, the family gained acceptance into the U.S. refugee program.

Ever practical, Blen worried about school and rent in America and, even more, that the whole thing was a trick.

The plane ride to Dallas, by way of Brussels and New York City, was “the highest form of excitement in my life, to this day.”

It was happening.

Blen, at 17, could not believe her eyes when she arrived at Lake Highlands High School. It was so big, like a city compared to her previous school. A student guide/ mentor made her first day bearable by showing her around. Until teacher Matthew Morris and his AVID class, she

“IT WAS A CONCENTRATION CAMP. MINUS THE GAS, ONLY BECAUSE THEY HAD NOT FIGURED OUT THE TECHNOLOGY ... BUT IT WAS MY FAMILY I WORRIED ABOUT.”

knew nothing of GPAs, SATs or college scholarships.

Today she claims a 3.8 GPA. She is involved in a peer leadership/anti-bullying group, and she won the Character Counts Award from the Lake Highlands Exchange Club. French club, Police Athletic League, the Mayor’s Dallas Youth Council and a Young Women in Science and Engineering at University of Texas at Dallas — it’s but a partial list of activities in which Blen takes part.

She is excessively embedded in such pursuits because she wants to broaden her mind and scope of opportunity.

Living a life far better than what her parents experienced in their youths, Blen nonetheless sees imperfection in America and Lake Highlands. She witnesses segregation, mostly self-imposed, at school and around town. She knows things could improve for incoming refugee students who often go along indefinitely without knowing the fundamentals of how education works in America.

Some weekends, she’ll toss on a backpack, hop on a DART train and explore Downtown for hours.

Her dad used to go on long walks when he was home in Ethiopia, which at the time she thought was “weird,” but now she gets it. She already earned a scholarship to Texas Weslyan, a law-focused university in Fort Worth where she might study immigration law.

She appreciates art — something at which her little sister is gifted, she says

and music, literature and writing. And a good debate.

Her father, and his father before him, gave their children the gift of free information.

Kiflu’s father, a pilot, made a point to bring BBC and Voice of America into the home, so his children would hear English and become globally informed.

Kiflu has done the same for his family.

And while he has much to do before he could, say, return to law school or write a book about his experiences, he must work to pay the bills. At times that has meant delivering pizzas. But last month he took a job with Dallas courts interpreting the Amharic language to English. He will work civil, criminal, immigration cases — anywhere he is needed. He hopes to open an interpretation/translation services office near their Lake Highlands apartment soon. Blen’s mother works deep nights in food service at an East Dallas hospital.

Like every member of her family, including, 10th grader Sophie, Blen smiles frequently and exudes charm and wit. Talking about his girls’ futures, the proud father says he has no worries.

“Blen will be maybe a lawyer, maybe Matlock [which Kiflu was watching when we arrived — it’s his favorite show] or a politician and diplomat like Madeleine Albright.”

The family enjoys a communal chuckle, mostly at the Matlock mention, and not because they doubt Blen could be any of the three, in her own right.

“BLEN WILL BE MAYBE A LAWYER, MAYBE LIKE MATLOCK ... OR A POLITICIAN AND DIPLOMAT LIKE MADELEINE ALBRIGHT.”

Kiflu, Blen, Tizita and Sophie Hussain.

STRONG JOHN

Stories that start out like John Allen’s don’t generally end well. He came from a big family who loved him, but he lacked stability and shouldered more responsibility by age 14 than many adults can handle. He has been thrust into crime-ridden environments, lost multiple family members to gun violence and illness, and been reported as “suspicious” when he was merely mowing lawns to help support his family. John is mostly stoic as he unravels his past. Born in South Dallas, he moved around, changing schools on a regular basis. And with every stint as the new kid came a dose of bullying.

Most of the time he lived in apartments, often in problem neighborhoods, where he and his brother would wait until the last possible minute to arrive at the bus stop in order to avoid harassment. At one point he, his mom and brother moved into a three-bedroom home on a nice East Dallas street. That is, “with about 13 other people,” he says. He is not exaggerating, he assures. There were siblings, aunts, uncles, kids, his mom and grandma.

Lake Highlands was the first place he could call home, he says, though things weren’t perfect here.

In junior high, he discovered football. He loved being part of the team. “I think I played a lot because I had good grades, not because I was the best football player,” he says with a hint of a smile.

But two of John’s family members died in quick succession. His aunt, who also was his mother’s best friend, died giving birth, leaving several children behind. Not long after that, his mom’s brother was shot in the head. That uncle lived some eight months, during which time he and John became close. They talked, bonded and attended church together; the elder was determined to change the lifestyle that led to the shooting. But doctors never could dislodge the bullet from his brain. John was 13 when his uncle died. His mother spiraled into depression over the losses.

John, too, was mourning. But he had little time to grieve. He filled the gaps, taking care of everything from grocery shopping to getting his siblings to school and doing laundry.

By all accounts, John was making heroic efforts for someone his age. In

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addition to the responsibilities at home, he made near-perfect grades and worked.

He says he regularly faced prejudice anyway.

One time, he recalls, he was wearing a coat that belonged to his estranged father.

“I missed him so much that I would wear his jacket and I guess it made me look a little older than I was.”

He thinks that is part of the reason a pair of bicycle police officers followed him down a residential street as he walked home from school, hollering. “Hey you, where are you going? What’s in that backpack?” They stopped him and patted him down, physically pushed him into a sitting position on the curb, searched his school bag and demanded identification. He produced his Lake Highlands Junior High student ID card.

Then there was the time, more recently, when he was working a landscaping gig — a task he completed on a hot summer evening, after two-a-day football practice, no less — and he had to carry his equipment home himself. It

took two trips between the mower and edger and other gear. Embarking on his second trip, a police car hopped the curb, pulling in front of him on the sidewalk. An officer stepped out and began interrogating him. Once he told his story, the officer “was calm” and let him know that a “concerned homeowner” had called him in — “a suspicious person, disturbing the peace, something like that,” John says.

At a job from which he has since resigned, a manager accused John of stealing from the register. “I kind of waited for an apology after he found the ‘missing’ $80, but none came,” John says. When these things happen, John tends to go high rather than outwardly react.

At LHHS, John joined the wrestling team, a move that “really changed things,” he says. It would become a place to work out pent-up frustration, too.

He still played football, cashiered (at Albertson’s until it shuttered), mowed and volunteered on weekends, as required by one of his classes. He helped pay the bills at home and care for his

siblings. He even rekindled some semblance of a relationship with his father.

But John lost another uncle, this time to cancer. And during the winter of sophomore year, his dad disappeared. After a period of mystery, John learned by happenstance that his father had been shot and did not tell anyone. John only found out because his grandmother’s friend was a nurse where John’s dad was a patient.

LHHS wrestling coaches such as Pete Grieder, who retired in 2016 after 32 years, pulled John from his rut with simple empathy and encouragement, John says.

The first important thing to John about wrestling is that he believes he is good. “I’ve played football and done other things; this was the first thing I ever felt I was good at,” he says.

Coach Kevin Wainscott calls John a “sort of gentle giant — so quiet on the sidelines, but in a match, this toughness comes out.”

The day John learned about his dad’s

shooting, he wrestled in a tournament. As is typical, he did not talk about his troubles. Atypically, he lost his first match.

“Coach Grieder right away tells me he knows something is wrong,” John says.

“He said, ‘Just pick yourself up, John, and get through today.’ “

It was enough to motivate John, who decided to stop making excuses, he says, or feeling sorry for himself. He’s heard other voices out on the mat too, such as that of his deceased uncle, who, clear as day, said, “Keep fighting and push through.”

“I’VE PLAYED FOOTBALL AND DONE OTHER THINGS; THIS WAS THE FIRST THING I EVER FELT I WAS GOOD AT.”

MOO’S MOTIVATED

A wise elderly grandmother’s soul seemingly is trapped inside Moo Hser’s teenage body. Maybe it is the way that she walks a departing visitor to her car, hugs her, then stands, smiling, waving, otherwise unmoving, fading as her guest exits the lot of the apartment complex, where Moo lives among a population of mostly refugees from the Myanmar region. Perhaps it is her attitude; she perpetually smiles, jokes, doles out specific compliments to everyone she sees and repeats, “It’s OK” after describing a terrible personal experience.

As soon as she introduces herself, Moo hands over three sheets of type-filled paper. “It’s my story, because my accent is bad and you might not understand me,” she says.

Growing up in a refugee camp in Thailand made Moo lose faith in the world, she writes. “Me and my family were starving, crying out for hope, freedom, food. Every night I heard my mother cry, crying herself to sleep, and I witnessed her trying to commit suicide.”

The first time, Moo saw her mother attempt to hang herself with a sheet, she says. Another time, she ingested rat poison. When Moo was 8, sharing her mother’s despondency, she swallowed a handful of all the pills and medicines she could get her hand on.

Moo’s parents had been through so much — Moo remembers the carnage of 2001, she writes, though she was just 3. “Blood everywhere. People young and old hit the ground. Babies die in parents’ arms from bullets and bombs. My mom carried my baby brother and my dad carried me in his left arm, with my older brother in his right while our oldest brother ran like a cheetah. I remember my parents’ faces, worried about us, not themselves. I remember I looked back and saw women being tied up and men being shot right in front of their families.”

Moo’s family would live to see better days, but not for nearly a decade. Though they escaped the bloodbath in the forests along the Burma-Thailand border, they

“I REMEMBER MY PARENTS’ FACES, WORRIED ABOUT US, NOT THEMSELVES. I REMEMBER LOOKING BACK AND SAW ... MEN BEING SHOT RIGHT IN FRONT OF THIER FAMILIES.”

continued to fight for survival throughout nine years in the massive Mae La camp, sustaining on bamboo, flowers and bugs they found in nearby mountains. Shelter was constructed from wood, bamboo and leaves, making the risk of fires extreme. The Karen Women’s Organization revealed numerous cases of violence against women at the camp in 2011-13 (after Moo and her family moved, though earlier reports had prompted the research) and showed that victims found little justice. Living among some 40,000 other refugees, all of them hoping for resettlement, possibilities looked bleak. So when Moo’s family immigrated to America in 2007, she says, it was as if she had relocated to paradise. “I saw these lights of the city. I saw this streetlight. Glowing poles and markers along the roads. It was so shiny, so beautiful. I knew everything I dreamed was true — it was Heaven.”

Her elation was short-lived. The bullying began when she arrived at Hotchkiss Elementary School.

“I was lost,” she says. “I did not know where to go. I did not know how to speak English. I was picked on from the first day. They made fun of my name. Moo means ‘life’ in my country, but that’s not what it means here. And worst of all no one was there to help me get through it all.” She recalls a boy with a bloody injury telling a teacher that she had hit him. Horrified at both the blood and the subsequent false accusation, she had no words to defend herself. Today Moo understands, “The people making fun of you, the meanest ones, are the ones going through the most hard times.” Pain, caused by weapons or words, can be temporary, Moo says. “God has a dream for us. That is what is real and permanent.”

Friend Blen Hussain says Moo “defies my understanding.” Despite everything, she is always laughing, smiling and hugging everyone, even strangers. “She will hug you,” Blen advises. (True.)

As a child swallowing pills, believing death the only way out, Moo could never have imagined attending a large urban high school, graduating and attending college. But, thanks to teachers including Matthew Morris and Alissa Long she is destined for university life. “My teachers here, in AVID and every one of them, have changed my world in a good way.”

Moo will double major in theology and business, she says. She declines (with a big, mischievous smile) to say on record what she aims to do with the degrees.

“I know, but I want to keep it a secret.”

DETERMINED DEREK

Derek Gonzalez wears side-swept bangs that dip below dark brows and obscure one eye; black-rimmed glasses cover his cheeks and magnify thick lashes. He speaks softly, but Derek says he is finally sure of himself and wants to share his story, even if it means upsetting certain family members, all of whom he loves beyond measure. “I am an open book. I don’t have anymore secrets,” he says.

Brushing hair from his forehead, he matter-of-factly discusses painful topics. Two events unleashed the darkest days of his young life; the effects led to self-harm, attempted suicide and three separate psychiatric hospitalizations before high school.

When he was 9, an adult sexually assaulted him. He was too terrified at the time to tell anyone what happened (he later shared the details with both psychiatric professional and his parents).

The second trauma happened in eighth grade, when Derek told his parents (who live separately) that he is gay.

“They were not OK with it,” he says. “Neither of them.”

Derek is close with his multiple siblings. All of them loved him unconditionally, he says, and don’t care if he likes boys or girls.

But Derek was desperate for his parents’ approval, something he cannot acquire “to this day,” he adds.

Despondency led to cutting his wrists and hospitalization to treat depression and suicidal ideations. He returned home with some self-awareness, but when he scratched and picked at his wounds causing them to bleed, his mom got so upset that she kicked him out. He returned to treatment. His mother would not allow him back home upon his release, so he stayed with his dad. Soon another depression sent him to his last stint at “rehab.” This time, he came out stronger. He ended friendships and behaviors that felt unhealthy. He wanted to get better, even if it meant going at it alone for a while. He started studying harder, reading more, retreating into his schoolwork, registering for Advance Placement classes and the college preparation program, AVID.

But home life presented further challenges. Living with his mom during junior year, Derek watched his mother and sister fight, sometimes physically, until his sister moved out. At his sister’s request, Derek went with her, in hindsight a misstep. She got into rebellious stage and brought aggressive boyfriends around. Derek says he hung out with her at parties — late into the night, some-

times drinking — just to watch out for her. He missed so many days of school that he had to take make-up classes.

He managed to catch himself before he fell too far. By senior year he had worked his way back into good standing at school. He has improved the relationship with his parents.

“He let me borrow his truck for prom,” Derek says of his dad, adding that he attended the dance with a group of friends.

Derek moved back into his mom’s apartment, where he pays rent. It’s an old building with chipping paint. A strip of rusty mailboxes line one wall of an open-air hallway. Seats, ostensibly removed from a van, are positioned in a row beneath them. Derek, his hair clipped short now, plops into one, giggling at the incongruity. Small children run up and down the corridor, shrieking happily.

The one-room unit — where Derek lives with his 19- and 7-year-old brothers, his 9- and 21-year-old sister and his mom, Elvira — effectively shuts out courtyard commotion. It’s tidy, showcasing small plaques emblazoned with religious words (“Blessed”) over doorframes. A metallic three-photo frame, the word FAMILY across the top, hangs above Derek’s bed. It displays black-and-white photos of a blissful, mostly blonde family on the

beach — they’re stock images, one partially covered by a price tag someone halfheartedly attempted to remove.

Derek laughs about it, but it’s not clear if the frame is a joke, a metaphor or simply an incomplete effort.

Derek’s double bed, along with a long couch, occupies the main living room. The youngsters sleep in a studio area beside Elvira’s master bedroom. Kimberly, 9, is the only family member to hang around. Elvira is shy, Derek explains, and is awaiting the camera’s departure. Kimberly’s not. She interrogates the reporter who is questioning her brother: “How old are you?” “Do you have a dog?” “Do you like Donald Trump?”

She is giddy to have Derek home for a minute. Despite putting in some 30 hours a week at Grimaldi’s, he is excelling in school and deciding on a college. He has been accepted to Midwestern State University but isn’t sure he wants to be that far from his family. University of North Texas or a semester or two at Richland also are under consideration, he says.

He’s weighing either nursing or engineering as a future career, because he loves helping people and excels in math and science.

Derek has avoided romantic relationships, he says, choosing to focus on school and his family. His mom still encourages him to get a girlfriend, he says, shaking his head. He loves her and they share a very special bond, he says, but she is “one of a kind.”

“I AM AN OPEN BOOK. I DON’T HAVE SECRETS ANYMORE.”

MONICA’S MOXIE

LWLH-PH

Monica was born in Nueva Rosita, Mexico to a 16 year old. A few years later her young mother decided to move to America, where Monica’s biological father lived. At 6, Monica moved with her mom into her father’s home in a small East Texas town.

“He turned out to be a terrible, cruel monster,” Monica says. “He was an alcoholic and abusive. I often describe living with him as living in a minefield, where you had to watch and be careful of what you said and did. I personally think he was sick. He would go on a rampage and leave my mother and I bruised all over and the next day apologize, as if it had all been an accident.”

Though there are provisions in place for undocumented women to report domestic violence without fear of deportation, the process was too complex, time-consuming and fearsome, Monica says.

“My mom had to work all the time in order to get away. She was so tired, and she never went through with [reporting the abuse].”

Instead they escaped to the Richardson area, learning along the way that life was “unforgiving for undocumented immigrants,” Monica says.

They lived on very little and, to make matters worse, Monica’s father found them and continued to threaten their safety, Monica says, going as far as to gain partial custody of her. The mental and physical abuse, paired with the constant fear, continued during the weekends she stayed with him.

“I’ll just say that now he is incarcerated,” Monica says. “And when he is done, he will be deported.”

A senior at Lake Highlands High School today, Monica is ready to graduate in the top 10 percent of her class with a 4.0 GPA — all her classes are AP or dual-credit college courses. She is a peer helper and a peer tutor, meaning she mentors other students both socially and academically. She works two jobs one waiting tables and the other at a furniture store — putting in a collective 20-22 hours on weekends.

She lives in an apartment on Whitehurst with her mom, Yesica, who cleans offices for a living; stepdad, Manny, a chef; and three siblings for whom she cares when the adults are working — that is, every night and late.

EASTFIELD COLLEGE CAMP HARVEY

3737 Motley Dr., Mesquite, 75150 / 972.860.7114

4SummerCamp@dcccd.edu / Ignite your kids imagination by keeping them connected to big ideas through critical-thinking and creative play. Camp Harvey is a series of STEAM-based youth camps where kids experience meaningful learning while also having fun. Camp classes include: Math and reading practice, Improvisation, CSI/Forensics Academy, Debate, Swimming Clinics, Girl Gamers, Star Wars Stop Animation, Minecraft, Nature Appreciation, and more! Discounted registration through May 15. For youth ranging in age from 5-17.

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.

LAKEHILL PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Leading to Success. 2720 Hillside Dr., Dallas 75214 / 214.826.2931 / lakehillprep.org

Kindergarten through Grade 12 - Lakehill 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 dual-language elementary campus is now open at 7159 E. Grand Ave. Please visit our website at DallasSpanishHouse. com for more information.

ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

848 Harter Rd., Dallas 75218 / 214.328.9131 / stjohnsschool.org

Founded in 1953, St. John’s is an independent, co-educational day school for Pre-K through Grade 8. With a tradition for academic excellence, St. John’s programs include a challenging curriculum in a Christian environment along with instruction in the visual and performing arts, Spanish, German, French, and opportunities for athletics and community service.St. John’s goal for its students is to develop a love for learning, service to others, and leadership grounded in love, humility, and wisdom. Accredited by ISAS, SAES, and the Texas Education Agency.

UT DALLAS CHESS CAMP

800 W. Campbell Rd., Richardson 75080 / (972) 883-4899 / utdallas.edu/chess ) 2016

Summer Chess Camp Campers learn while they PLAY. Chess develops reading, math, critical and analytical skills, and builds character and self-esteem. Just don’t tell the kids…they think chess is fun! Join beginner, intermediate or advanced chess classes for ages 7 to 14 on the UT Dallas campus. Morning (9am-noon) or afternoon (1-4pm) sessions are available June 13-17, June 20-24, July 18-22, July 25-29 and extended playing classes. Camp includes t-shirt, chess board and pieces, trophy, certificate, score book, group photo, snacks and drinks. Instructors are from among UT Dallas Chess Team Pan-Am Intercollegiate Champions for 2010-2012!

ZION LUTHERAN SCHOOL

6121 E. Lovers Ln. Dallas / 214.363.1630 / ziondallas. org Toddler care thru 8th Grade. Serving Dallas for over 65 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.

Financial planning & analysis for middle income earners. Free monthly seminars, see website for details.

The children’s ages are 10, 2 and 7 months. That leaves Monica with full hands and little time for studies until everyone is asleep or a parent comes home. “Yes, my youngest sibling is 18 years younger than me,” Monica quips. “I hopefully won’t be a mom for a very long time. Though I do get asked a lot if my siblings are my children. I must admit they do feel like my children.”

Her friend Blen Hussain says Monica was one of her first friends. “I don’t know how she does it, sometimes on two hours of sleep, walks to school, handles so much at home. I know she’s sad or tired sometimes, but rarely shows it, and she is intelligent without effort.”

Monica, like many students who came to the United States as children without documents, has endured times of darkness and doubt. She says enrolling in AVID has helped her stay strong when she feels vulnerable.

“Mr. [Matthew] Morris [AVID instructor] saw potential in me when I was in a very dark place,” she says. “He helped mold me into the student I am today. He has also leant an ear when I needed it, advice when I didn’t want it and, most importantly, unwavering support,” she says.

Monica secured relief from threat of deportation by applying for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

(DACA) program, which the Obama administration put in place by executive action in 2012. It allows childhood arrivals to study and work in this country on two-year renewable terms. However the program does not allow students hoping to go to college to apply for certain student loans.

So far, Monica has gained acceptance to University of North Texas and Univer-

URBAN THRIFT

214.341.1151 Facebook.com/UrbanThriftStore

New stuff & sales everyday! We accept ALL donations! You’re welcome to come drop them off or schedule a FREE pick up! We give back to our community!

LAKE HIGHLANDS ACUPUNCTURE

Bryan Ellett, L.Ac.

10252 E. Northwest Highway 214.267.8636 lakehighlandsacupuncture.com

The World Health Organization recommends acupuncture for: chronic pain, high blood pressure, depression/anxiety, digestive problems (IBS, heartburn), common cold, allergies and more! Come see why! Now accepting insurance!

sity of San Antonio, and she has applied for close to a dozen scholarships.

The new administration could discontinue or phase out DACA at any time. During his presidential campaign, Donald Trump called DACA “illegal” and a violation of the constitution. It doesn’t feel good, Monica says, but she is not going to let dread, or anything else, stop her. She aims to study political science and attend law school.

“I might have to work harder. It might take longer.”

On Monica’s wall is a card from a memorial service for a sophomore friend. She killed herself, Monica explains, pointing to the girl’s photo. It was the worst day of high school, she says. “She was overwhelmed and took her own life. Since then I try to be kind to people whenever I can.”

Monica’s mom and stepdad are proud of their daughter, they both say. Her little brother is clearly enamored with her.

She looks down at the 10 year old and says, “I need to be strong, hard-working role model, for him.”

ECHO BOUTIQUE

Upscale resale & unique gifts

9020 Garland Road (Between The Arboretum & Casa Linda) Dallas, TX 75218 214.370.4444

MY OFFICE

Shipping and Office Supplies

9660 Audelia Road, Suite 123 214.221.0011 myofficelh.com

All kinds of Easter Basket goodies are in store at My Office. We have beautiful filled hand-crafted Candy Jars & chocolate for those with a sweet tooth. We have some beautiful hanging Crosses & Inspirational Notecards. For, the kids, we have books, games, & toys for their Easter baskets.

lakehighlands.advocatemag.com

“I OFTEN DESCRIBE LIVING WITH [MY BIOLOGICAL DAD] AS LIVING IN A MINEFIELD, WHERE YOU HAD TO WATCH AND BE CAREFUL OF WHAT YOU SAID AND DID. I PERSONALLY THINK HE WAS SICK. HE WOULD GO ON A RAMPAGE AND LEAVE MY MOTHER AND I BRUISED ALL OVER.”

Exciting New Spring Arrivals Daily!

Upscale resale -unique gifts-designer consignment-hand picked vintage work by local artists and artisans.

By GEORGE MASON

Good riddance, mom

Mother’s Day is near and dear to nearly all of us. Most of us will either honor our mothers on that day or remember them fondly.

Unless our mother was like the woman whose children memorialized her with an epitaph on a headstone in a Sedona, Ariz., cemetery. A friend of mine who walks her dog there can’t stop wondering about this family:

“To Our Mother, Mona Herold Vanni, October 14, 1912 to April 11, 1996.

“You spent your life expressing animosity for nearly every person you encountered, including your children. Within hours of his death, you even managed to declare your husband of fifty-seven years unsuited to being either a spouse or a father. Hopefully, you are now insulated from all the dissatisfaction you found in human relationships. —Buddy, Jackie and Mike”

Ouch! Pain carved in stone.

I referred to this in a sermon on Mother’s Day 2014. I recently received an email from Mike, the son who oversaw the $10,000 installation of the tombstone for their mother memorialized above. Apparently, Mike did an Internet search and read my sermon that included my allusion to this. He wrote to share some backstory to the epitaph that was fueled by agonizing memories of his childhood.

Mike wrote his memoir, “Predestined for Reformation: My Lifelong Quest for the Noble Path,” under a pseudonym, Tony Roletti, because of the “somewhat unkind references to living members of a Christian church who have been, in my view, less than honorable throughout their lives.” That pains a pastor’s heart.

The author is 77 years old now, and although he has had a successful career,

he still bears the scars of a childhood filled with domestic horror and lacking in expected gentle and generous maternal care. The book tells of his watching his two older sisters enduring their mother’s beatings and terror, until they ran away from home to find safety. Mike himself left home immediately upon high school graduation.

Mona’s son has struggled with anger management throughout his life and has always held authority figures with suspicion and disdain. He was never able to function well in a team-oriented structure and has struggled to embrace the world with love and compassion, despite his work with young people as a teacher and sociologist.

Mothers provide us with our first hint that the world is a friendly place and we are welcome in it. Or, they don’t. For those with mothers like Mike’s, it’s a life-

WORSHIP

ANGLICAN

ALL SAINTS EAST DALLAS / allsaintseastdallas.org

Sunday worship 5:00 pm / Live in God’s Presence. Live Out His Love. Meeting at Central Lutheran Church / 1000 Easton Road

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

BIBLE CHURCHES

NORTH HIGHLANDS BIBLE CHURCH / nhbc.net / 9626 Church Rd.

Sun: LifeQuest 9:00 am / Worship 10:30 am / 214.348.9697

Wed: AWANA and Kids Choir 6:00 pm / Student Ministry 6:30 pm

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

CENTRAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, ELCA / 1000 Easton Road

Sunday School for all ages 9:00 am / Worship Service 10:30 am

Pastor Rich Pounds / CentralLutheran.org / 214.327.2222

FIRST UNITED LUTHERAN CHURCH / 6202 E Mockingbird Ln. Sunday Worship Service 10:30 am / Call for class schedule. 214.821.5929 / www.dallaslutheran.org

METHODIST

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH RICHARDSON 503 N Central Exwy / fumcr.com / 972.235.8385 / Dr. Clayton Oliphint

8:45, 9:45, 11:00 am sanctuary / access modern worship 11:00am

LAKE HIGHLANDS UMC / 9015 Plano Rd. / 214.348.6600 / lhumc.com

Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School / 10:30 am Coffee Worship: 8:30 am & 11:00 am Traditional / 11:00 am Contemporary

long challenge to overcome a start with a malformed heart.

Mothers who do their work of love and nurture forge solid souls in their kids. They teach us to be tough and tender both, and when to be which. Mothers who are themselves deeply damaged will deeply damage their offspring, unless they find the healing and help they need in time to parent well.

A mother bears her children, and forever thereafter her children bear their mother. Bearing our mothers can be a burden or blessing. Let’s all pray for blessings to abound.

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.

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

LAKE POINTE CHURCH – WHITE ROCK CAMPUS

Classic Service at 9:30 & Contemporary Service at 11:00 am lakepointe.org / 9150 Garland Road

PRESBYTERIAN

LAKE HIGHLANDS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH / 214.348.2133 8525 Audelia Road at NW Hwy. / www.lhpres.org

9:00 am Contemporary, 9:55 am Christian Ed., 11:00 am Traditional

NORTHRIDGE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH / 6920 Bob-O-Link Dr. 214.827.5521 / www.northridgepc.org / Welcomes you to Worship

8:30 & 11:00 am / Church School 9:35 am / Childcare provided.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

An unusual epitaph speaks to the crucial legacy of mothers

Mothers provide us with our first hint that the world is a friendly place and we are welcome in it. Or, they don’t.

AC & HEAT

WHERE CAN I FIND LOCAL ...?

CLASSES/TUTORING/LESSONS

CREATIVE ARTS CENTER

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

VOICE TEACHER with 40+ years experience. M.M. LSU • www.PatriciaIvey.com trilletta@msn.com • 214-769-8560

Family Owned & Operated

Serving the Dallas area for over 30 years

We raise our kids here, too!

972-274-2157

www.CrestAirAndHeat.com

TACLB29169E

APPLIANCE REPAIR

JESSE’S A/C & APPLIANCE SERVICE

TACLB13304C All Makes/Models. 214-660-8898

USED APPLIANCES FOR SALE Washer $125. Dryer $89.1 yr. Warranty. Repair. 972-329-2202

CLEANING SERVICES

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

A WORLD CLASS CLEANING SERVICE

You deserve High Standards and Quality Cleaning. You’ve tried the rest... Now try the Best! WindsorMaidServices.com 214-381-MAID (6243)

AFFORDABLE CLEANING Insd./Bonded. Move In/Out. Routine Cleaning. Reliable. Dependable. Residential/ Commercial. References. 28+yrs. Delta Cleaning. 972-943-9280.

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

AMIRA MAID 972-840-8880

CONCRETE/MASONRY/PAVING

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 Brightening Homes and Businesses

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

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

TEXAS ELECTRICAL • 214-289-0639 Prompt, Honest, Quality Service. TECL 24668

FENCING & DECKS

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

4 QUALITY FENCING • 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 214-766-6422

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

EST. 1991 #1

COWBOY

FENCE & IRON CO.

214.692.1991

SPECIALIZING IN Wood Fences &Auto Gates

Serving your Neighborhood Since 1993

Repairing: Refrigerators •Washer/Dryers

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

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

FINANCIAL CONSULTANT

Five Rings Financial has part-time opportunities! JR@FiveRingsFinancial.com 214-702-0033 x502

BUY/SELL/TRADE

CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!! All Makes/Models. 2000-2016. Any Condition. Running Or Not. Top $$$ Paid. Free Towing. We’re Nationwide. Call Now 1-888-985-1806

COMCAST HI-SPEED INTERNET $29.99/mo (for 12 mos.) No term agreement. Fast downloads. Plus ask about TV (140 Channels) Internet bundle for $79.99/mo (for 12 mos.) 1-844-714-4451

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

CABINETRY & FURNITURE

SQUARE NAIL WOODWORKING

Cabinet Refacing, Built-ins, Entertainment/ Computer Centers. Jim. 214-324-7398 www.squarenailwoodworking.com

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,

Since ‘98. Insured. amiramaid.com Dependable Service. References

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

FATHER, SON, GRANDSON

Window Cleaning. Free Est. Derek. 682-716-9892

WINDOW MAN WINDOW CLEANING.COM

Residential Specialists. BBB. 214-718-3134

COMPUTERS & ELECTRONICS

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

BILL’S COMPUTER REPAIR

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

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 972-639-6413 / stykidan@sbcglobal.net

CONCRETE/MASONRY/PAVING

BRICK & STONE REPAIR

Tuck Pointing / Crack Repair. Mortar Color Matching. 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

Online at Classifieds.advocatemag.com

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

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

CONSUMERS CHOICE AWARDS 2007-2016 Making Homes Safer

cowboyfenceandiron.com

FLOORING & CARPETING

DALLAS HARDWOODS 214-724-0936

Installation, Repair, Refinish, Wax, Hand Scrape. Residential, Commercial. Sports Floors. 30 Yrs.

FENN CONSTRUCTION Manufactored hardwoods. Stone and Tile. Back-splash Specials. 214-343-4645

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

Restoration Flooring

Phones Answered 24/7

EMPLOYMENT

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

ESTATE/GARAGE SALES

TRANSITIONING? MOVING? Have years of accumilation? We can help. Call Pat 214-802-2781 AllPointsEstateServices.com

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

EXTERIOR CLEANING

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

25+ Years Experience

469.774.3147

Hardwood Installation · Hand Scraping Sand & Finish · Dustless restorationflooring.net

Willeford hardwood floors

Superior Quality: Installation • Refinishing Repair • Cleaning & Waxing

Old World Hand Scrape 214-824-1166

FOUNDATION REPAIR

• Slabs • Pier & Beam

• Mud Jacking • Drainage

• Free Estimates

• Over 20 Years Exp. 972-288-3797

We Answer Our Phones

GARAGE SERVICES

IDEAL GARAGE DOORS

• 972-757-5016

Install & Repair. 10% off to military/1st responders.

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

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

GLASS, WINDOWS & DOORS

JIM HOWELL 214-357-8984 Frameless Shower Enclosures/Custom Mirrors. Free Estimates

LAKE HIGHLANDS GLASS & MIRROR

frameless shower enclosures • store fronts replacement windows • mirrors 214-349-8160

PRO WINDOW CLEANING prompt, dependable. Matt 214-766-2183

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

HANDYMAN SERVICES

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

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

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

HANDY MANNY PAINTING/HOME REPAIR Int./Ext. Manny 214-334-2160

HANDYMAN SPECIALIST Residential/ Commercial. Large, small jobs, repair list, renovations. Refs. 214-489-0635

HOME REPAIR HANDYMAN Small/Big Jobs + Construction. 30 Yrs. Exp. 214-875-1127

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

HONEST, SKILLED

General Repairs/

WANTED: ODD

Allen’s Handyman

Your Home Repair Specialists

Drywall Doors Senior Safety Carpentry Small & Odd Jobs And More! 972-308-6035 HandymanMatters.com/dallas

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

RAMON’S INT/EXT PAINT

Sheetrock, Repairs. 214-679-4513

TONY’S PAINTING SERVICE Quality Work

Since 1984. Int./Ext. 214-755-2700

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

LAWNS, GARDENS & TREES

LSI LAWN SPRINKLERS “Making Water Work” Irrigation system Service & Repair. Specializing In Older Copper Systems. LI #13715. 214-283-4673

MAYA TREE SERVICE Tree Trim/Remove. Insd. CC’s Accepted. 214-924-7058 214-770-2435

TAYLOR MADE IRRIGATION Repairs, service, drains. 30+ years exp. Ll 6295 469-853-2326. John

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

Everyone wants to save on their home energy bill. Keeping your A/C unit running at peak efficiency can cut your costs by 20%. Follow these tips and watch that energy bill drop.

1.Clean or change the filter once a month, not just when it is hot already.

2.Keep the outdoor unit clean. Clean plant growth, debris from unit.

3.Check and maintain fan belts on the outdoor unit.

4.Schedule a pre-season tune-up by a professional. They can inspect, unclog and upgrade your system. The only thing that’s left is to enjoy being cool and keeping that cash for summer fun.

classifieds.advocatemag.com

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, Quartz, Marble For Kitchen/Bath-Free Est.. stoneage.brandee@gmail.com 940-465-6980

TK REMODELING 972-533-2872

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

214.560.4203

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

BURRIS TREE SERVICE | 469-939-3344

Expert tree service. | Prune. Stump grind. Plant.

CHUPIK TREE SERVICE

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

DALLAS GROUNDSKEEPER Organic Lawn Maintenance designed to meet your needs. 214-504-6788 dallasgroundskeeper.com

DALLAS K.D.R.SERVICES • 214-349-0914

Lawn Service & Landscape Installation

HOLMAN IRRIGATION

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

MAY SPECIAL $200 OFF 4 man crew/4 hours

Just T

rees

YOUR TREES could look like a WORK OF ART, I Guarantee It. Call Mark Wittlich 214-332-3444

”WE CARE ABOUT YOUR TREES”

On Staff:

• 4 - Certified Arborists

• 1 - Tex- Tech Degreed Ag

• 1 - Tex A&M Degreed Forester

•

MOVING

AM MOVING COMPANY Specialty Moving & Delivery.469-278-2304 ammovingcompany.com

PEST CONTROL

A BETTER EARTH PEST CONTROL

Keeping the environment, kids, pets in mind. Organic products avail. 972-564-2495

MCDANIEL PEST CONTROL

Prices Start at $85 + Tax For General Treatment.

Average Home-Interior/Exterior & Attached Garage. Quotes For Other Services. 214-328-2847. Lakewood Resident

PET SERVICES

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

HOUSE CALLS OF DALLAS Personalized Care

For Your Pet Or Home. Everything from traveling or away for the day. Insured/Bonded.214-505-2525. housecallsofdallas.com

THE PET DIVAS Pet Sitting, Daily Dog Walks, In Home/Overnight Stays.Basic Obedience Training. thepetdivas.com 817-793-2885. Insured

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*

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

PLUMBING

THE PLUMBING MANN LLC

All Plumbing! Since 1978. Family Owned. RMP/Master-14240 Insured. 214-FAST-FIX/ 214-327-8349

HUNTER PLUMBING

214-324-2733

POOLS

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

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

ACCOUNTING, TAXES

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

BOOKKEEPING NEEDS? Need Help Organizing Finances?No Job Too Small or Big. Call C.A.S. Bookkeeping Services. Cindy 214-577-7450

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

PARADIGMFAMILYHEALTH.COM Affordable Family Medicine. Healthcare you deserve! 214-810-3553

WORRIED? ANXIOUS? Relaxed, effective professional counseling for anxiety in teens, adults & seniors. dallascounselor.com 214-489-7774

NEED A NEW WEBSITE?

Mobile. SEO Friendly. Maintainable.

AdvocateWebDesign.com 214.292.2053

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

Bob

30+

OUR CITY

By ANGELA HUNT

Getting the grease

Why squeaky wheels are needed on the Dallas City Council

“Why can’t you just get along?”

I remember being posed this almost-but-not-quite rhetorical question when I served on the Dallas City Council. More than once. More than twice, actually, but who’s counting? It was usually when I was expressing an opinion about some proposed city project, and my opinion differed from the majority of the council.

When I was accused of “not getting along,” it wasn’t that I was banging my shoe on the lectern. Or shouting expletives into the City Hall mic. Or engaging in personal attacks or making up “facts” or otherwise flying off the handle. No, I had simply arrived at a different conclusion from my colleagues after independently researching an issue and listening to my constituents.

In Dallas, expressing an alternative viewpoint from the majority of the council – particularly one that is in opposition to the mayor – is oddly perceived as “not getting along.” It is considered impolite, a breach of etiquette. One is labeled a “maverick” at best, a less kind moniker at worst.

This was made clear to me during a council discussion about gas drilling in parks. In 2013, the city council was debating limits on urban gas drilling. Many residents were particularly concerned about fracking in city parks. Then-City Manager Mary Suhm and her staff had repeatedly assured the council that there would be no gas drilling in parks. Yet Councilmember Scott Griggs and I had

uncovered a letter from Suhm in which she had simultaneously assured a gas drilling company that her staff would do their utmost to allow park drilling. So which was it?

During a council briefing, I took the opportunity to challenge Mary Suhm on these irreconcilable statements. I didn’t raise my voice. I presented the conflicting documents and pointedly asked Suhm, the city’s most powerful

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appointed official, to explain this chasm of a discrepancy.

I wasn’t surprised when Suhm dodged my questions. But I was surprised by the reaction of my colleagues. I expected them to be similarly outraged by the deceit, or at the very least, concerned. Instead, many of them expressed offense at my interrogation. (One even likened Suhm to Jesus Christ and me to Haman, the Biblical killer of Jews, but I suspect that even Suhm found that a smidge over the top.) Others were less theologically extravagant but nonetheless chastised me for my public questioning. It simply was not done. I half expected to be challenged to a duel.

Whether it was gas drilling, the Trinity Toll Road, convention center hotel financing, protecting neighborhoods from bad development, or a range of other issues, I remember the suggestion, at times posed by the city’s daily paper, that those of us who challenge the status quo or question the opinion of the majority should work harder to “get along.”

What they really mean, of course, is that we ought to work harder to go along to get along. Not rock the boat. Fall in line with the majority. Ask our tough questions behind closed doors, beyond the delicate ears of the public who might swoon at the unpleasant sound of intellectual debate.

The disturbing truth about those who wag their fingers and admonish council members to be nicer is that they fundamentally misunderstand both etiquette and politics. In the realm of politics, manners properly exist to discourage ad hominem attacks, to lower raised voices, and to enforce adherence to the civility of parliamentary procedure. Manners do not, however, mandate a blind acceptance of bad governance, nor do they insist on ideological unanimity.

Glad-handing and back-slapping aren’t going to fix Dallas’s very real problems. Something to keep in mind when you head to the polls on May 6.

Angela Hunt is a former Dallas city councilwoman. She writes a monthly opinion column about neighborhood issues. Her opinions are not necessarily those of the Advocate or its management. Send comments and ideas to her ahunt@advocatemag.com.

In Dallas, expressing an alternative viewpoint from the majority of the council – particularly one that is in opposition to the mayor – is oddly perceived as “not getting along.”