Best Patio IN

East Dallas

And the winner is Urban Vines

What is the one thing better than sitting on a patio on a nice evening? Sitting on a patio on a nice evening with a glass of wine. Urban Vines seems to understand this concept, which is probably why neighbors voted their patio the best in LakewoodEast Dallas. Urban Vines’ general manager Paul Kissell says the patio is packed every weeknight from 4-10 p.m. In the two years Urban Vines has been open, it has managed to establish itself as the No. 1 neighborhood hangout for unique, boutique wine and conversation — and no wonder, with the beautiful greenery and fireplace. It’s also

“incredibly dog friendly,” which Kissell says is a big draw for nearby neighbors. Urban Vines does not accept reservations, so seating is first come, first serve — a policy that was realized after neighbors began fighting for the popular spot near the fireplace. The patio can seat some 40 people on a normal evening, and parties of 60-80 when patio furniture is removed. During the summer,

Kissell says, Urban Vines weatherproofs the outside patio with misters and mosquito netting. Plus there’s also plenty of indoor seating for parties, events or wedding receptions.

Runner up: The Lot

Third place: HG Sply Co.

NEXT UP FOR ADVOCATE’S 2015 BEST OF CONTEST: Best bar. Vote for your favorite at lakewood.advocatemag.com/bestof2015

Retirees help others, have fun and get paid to do it, thanks to new Lakewood-area service

Growing older brings wisdom and wit, along with a few other changes that are less welcome. For many people, slowing down physically and losing the ability to drive can make retirement a lonely time. We try our best to visit elderly parents, but with the demands of work and family life, it can be difficult to help them stay mentally stimulated and emotionally engaged throughout the week.

For longtime Dallas residents and husband and wife team Jimmy and Sandy Maddox, this dilemma hit close to home. Last fall, Sandy was preparing for retirement, and she had a few fears about her own golden years. Namely, what would happen if she eventually lost her ability to drive?

“If it was a beautiful day, I wouldn’t be able to hop in the car and go for a drive. I wouldn’t be able to engage in things that keep me looking forward to the next day,” Sandy says.

She figured that if she felt that way, others probably did too. Inspired, Jimmy and Sandy founded People in Touch, a personalized senior companionship service to help busy families keep their elderly ones engaged in life — whether at home or a retirement facility.

“Relatives who visit aging parents may only have time for tidying up the house or tending to everyday matters. I want seniors to also have companions that are focused on making life more pleasurable,” Sandy says.

And People in Touch visitors do just that. Jim and Sandy meet with seniors and their family members to learn what activities might be stimulating and fun, such as scheduled phone calls, home visits, and personalized excursions.

Recently, one client enjoyed a drive around a neighborhood that brought back childhood memories. Another client preferred a trip to the Perot Museum to watch a 3D movie about the Galapagos Islands.

Over time, Sandy says that she has developed friendships with regular clients.

“Generally, people in their 80s and 90s are still mentally alert and have lots to contribute. Frankly, it is great fun to spend time with them. We like it as much as they do.”

People in Touch | 214.794.7934 | peopleintouch.net