2009 December Lakewood

“Knee replacement at Baylor got me moving again.”

“You have no idea how many steps you take until every one is painful,” says Jill Gunnels. With osteoarthritis, the cartilage in both her knees was virtually gone, and she needed total knee replacement. “I wanted to make sure the right person did the procedure,” she says. At Baylor, Jill had bilateral knee replacement, a highly technical orthopaedic procedure. Now, she says, “My life has changed. I’m going places every day. I don’t think you can keep up with me.” As for her choice of hospitals, she says, “I have one word—gratitude.”

For a physician referral or for more information about orthopaedic services at Baylor Dallas, call 1.800.4BAYLOR or visit us online at BaylorHealth.com/DallasOrtho

3500 Gaston Avenue., Dallas, Texas 75246

On behalf of my staff – Jessica, Karen and Sammie, my wife Mina, and my four sons; Greg, Vic, W.P. (Bill) and Ross, I would like to extend our Best Wishes for a healthy and happy Holiday Season.

I want to express my Sincere Thanks to all my customers for honoring my agency with your business.

honoring my agency with your business.

DELIVERING A NEW APPROACH TO HEALTH CARE .

Announcing the Hamon Tower at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas. We’re putting the latest of everything into one remarkable building. From leading-edge imaging equipment to patient meal preparation, everything is designed with the goal of delivering the most advanced care possible. Plus, we’ve nearly doubled our ICU capacity, so intensive care gets more timely, more comprehensive, more intensive. Hamon Tower – continuing our commitment to transforming health care in Dallas.

1-877-THR-Well | TexasHealth.org/HamonTower

HAMON TOWER, FALL 2009.

Doctors on the medical staff practice independently and are not employees or agents of the hospital. © 2009

CITIZENKANE ON

see page 14 for more comments from readers

PODC AST

Whether it’s what’s happening at city hall or a trend we see gaining ground in our neighborhood, we’re talking about it. You can listen to our newlylaunched podcast series every Monday by visiting our Back Talk blog.

GET ON THE A-LIST

It’s the best of the website in an e-newsletter version, delivered to your inbox weekly. Sign up by clicking “personalize” on the home page.

ALL A T WITTER

Follow Advocate on twitter.com/advocate. mag and be the first to know about the latest news, photos, podcasts, and videos posted to our website.

STORE FRON T

Check out the newest portion of advocatemag. com, where you can find listings for all sorts of businesses and services all right here in our neighborhood. And if you’re a business owner, feel free to add your own listing here, too.

PRODUCTIV ITY-KILLER

Help pass the time your weekend begins with a mindless, yet amusing, diversion. You can find that workweek escape on the Back Talk blog every Friday at 2 p.m.

“How about the parents of this minor? I hope the police are looking into possibly charging them as well.”

REMARKS

THOSE OLD FAMILIAR PLACES

Maybe the holidays should comprise more silent nights and days

We work pretty hard these days to create holiday memories.

Thinking back on my holidays, I wonder if that’s a good or necessary goal.

My only vivid memory of Thanksgiving, for example, involves what seemed like a 50-person gathering every year, without fail, at Aunt Hill’s and Uncle Walt’s house for a gigantic family feast.

My memory doesn’t revolve around food or laughter or back-slapping, although there was plenty of that. Instead, I remember our self-officiated football game. Rain or snow (and there often was plenty of the latter in Minnesota), my cousins assembled on the L-shaped front lawn, which doubled as our L-shaped foo tball field, chose

sides and began playing.

I don’t remember the scores. I don’t remember any spectacular catches or tackles or injuries. I don’t remember anything about those games except that we played them at that big family gathering. Every year. Without fail.

Because virtually all of our extended family lived within 50 miles of each other, the only traveling my family did during the Thanksgiving and holiday school break was the occasional day trip. That left a lot of downtime with not a lot to do.

I was too young to drive and not quite lazy enough to watch TV all day. So every vacation weekday, I hopped on a snowmobile and headed to the frozenover lake a couple of miles away.

And that would be my day: Arrive at the fish house, fire up the propanefueled furnace, and drop a minnow on a hook into the freezing water.

There were other regular radio shows, too. There was the noon farm report, complete with prices for sow bellies and winter wheat. There was the daily turkey shoot, where a listener told the DJ when to fire an imaginary shotgun round toward an imaginary turkey, and if the turkey gobbled before it fell, you won! And there were constant holiday wishes from local jewelers, cleaners, auto repair shops and grocers.

Maybe I caught a couple of fish each day. Maybe I didn’t. I had no cell phone, since that technology didn’t exist. No texting, either. So I just sat there and fished and thought and fished and thought and fished and thought some more.

And every year at the holiday break, I couldn’t wait to do it all over again. Every year. Without fail.

Rick Wamre is publisher of Advocate Publishing. Let him know how we are doing by writing to 6301 Gaston, Suite 820, Dallas 75214; FAX to 214.823.8866; or e-mail to rwamre@advocatemag.com.

DISTRIBUTION PH/214.560.4203

And then literally from dawn to dusk, I sat on a chair in the dark and watched the bobber. My only companion was a transistor radio that, if pointed just right, picked up the local radio station, which provided a steady diet of Johnny Cash, Porter Wagoner, Dolly Par ton and, at what seemed like 3 p.m. every day, “Jingle Bells” by some barking dogs.

ADVERTISING PH/214.560.4203 advertising coordinator: JUDY LILES /214.560.4203 jliles@advocatemag.com

The holidays came and went each year, and no big decisions were made. No great friendships were formed. No incredible personal insight was gained.

But there’s comfort in that downtime and those memories, those little things that happened every year that I could depend on and look forward to and carry with me.

There is something to be said, I guess, for simple, inconsequential memories.

advertising sales director: KRISTY GACONNIER /214.560.4213 kgaconnier@advocatemag.com display sales manager: BRIAN BEAVERS /214.560.4201 bbeavers@advocatemag.com

senior advertising consultant: AMY DURANT /214.560.4205 adurant@advocatemag.com advertising consultants: CATHERINE PATE /214.292.0494 cpate@advocatemag.com

LISA ALTHAUS /214.292.0961 lalthaus@advocatemag.com NORA JONES /214.292.0962 njones@advocatemag.com MADELYN RYBCZYK /214.292.0485 mrybczyk@advocatemag.com

BRANDI STRINGER /469.916.7864 bstringer@advocatemag.com PATTI MILLER /214.292.0961 pmiller@advocatemag.com

classified manager: PRIO BERGER /214.560.4211 pberger@advocatemag.com

classified consultants: SALLY ACKERMAN /214.560.4202 sackerman@advocatemag.com SUSAN CLARK /469.916.7866 sclark@advocatemag.com

EDITORIAL PH/ 214.292.2053 publisher: RICK WAMRE /214.560.4212 rwamre@advocatemag.com managing editor: KERIMITCHELL /214.292.0487 kmitchell@advocatemag.com

editors: MARLENA CHAVI RA-MEDFORD /214.292.2053 mchavira-medford@advocatemag.com CHRISTINAHUGHESBABB /214.560.4204 chughes@advocatemag.com

RACHELSTONE /214.292.0490 rstone@advocatemag.com senior art director: JYNNETTE NEAL /214.560.4206 jneal@advocatemag.com assistant art director: JULIANNERICE /214.292.0493 jrice@advocatemag.com designers: JEANINE MICHNA-BALES, SANDRA EVANS, LARRY OLIVER,KRISSCOTT contributing editors: JEFF SIEGEL, SALLY WAMRE contributors: SEANCHAFFIN, SANDYGREYSON, BILL KEFFER, GAYLA KOKEL, ERIN MOYER,GEORGEMASON,BLAIRMONIE,ELLENRAFF,RACHELSTONE web editor: COLLEENYANCY /469.916.7860 cyancy@advocatemag.com photo editor: CAN TÜRKYILMAZ /214.560.4200 cturkyilmaz@advocatemag.com photographers: ROBERT BUNCH, MARK DAVIS, MOLLY DICKSON, CHRISTOPHERLEE,SEANMCGINTY interns: ALEX KNESNIK, LACEY TEER

ADVOCATEPUBLISHING / 6301 Gaston Avenue, Suite 820, Dallas, TX 75214

RICK WAMRE | presidentTOM ZIELINSKI | vice-president Advocate, © 2009, is published monthly by East Dallas – Lakewood People Inc. Contents of this magazine may not be reproduced. Advertisers and advertising agencies assume liability for the content of all advertisements printed, and therefore assume responsibility for any and all claims against the Advocate. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising material. Opinions set forth in the Advocate 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.

No one can resist

warm & toasty

It’s that time of year again!

Have you checked your furnace to make sure it is safe? Making sure that your gas furnace is operating efficiently and safely with a heating inspection can ensure that your winter is cozy and worry free!

Happy Holidays from

blog& BACK TALK

CALL FOR JUSTICE

How about the parents of this minor [Advocate Back Talk Blog “Police arrest driver who hit J.L. Long students”, Nov. 10]? I hope the police are looking into possibly charging them as well.

—CITIZENKANE, VIA ADVOCATEMAG.COM

CHEERS FOR BIERSCH

So glad this is opening. [Advocate Back Talk Blog, “Video: Gordon Biersch opens Monday”, Nov. 8.] We’ve needed a place like this in our area since Two Rows abandoned us. Their Hefeweizen is incredible. Rivals Live Oak for my favorite beer.

—MICHAEL MOSTELLER, VIA ADVOCATEMAG.COM

ASIAN FARE WITH FLAIR

Hong Kong Restaurant on Garland Road by Barbecs is not bad, but if you can make it all the way to Jupiter and Beltline, then go for some real Asian good eats [Advocate Back Talk Blog, “Restaurant talk: Chinese takeout”, Nov. 13]. There is an Asian Marketplace with some really excellent restaurants around it.

—CG, VIA ADVOCATEMAG.COM

I miss Wok And Roll on Greenville (years ago). The lady at the counter had the coolest Madame Wong makeup and hair, and the food was good, cheap and plentiful.

—MONTEMALONE, VIA ADVOCATEMAG.COM

GOODBYE TO THE CHIEF

Everyone needs to realize that reducing crime requires a bottom-up formula, not top-down [Advocate Back Talk Blog, Kunkle’s retirement leaves Dallas in a bind”, Nov. 12]. Neighborhood residents are the first line of defense, not the chief of police. If you see something strange, report it. As any cop will tell you, if it’s not reported, it didn’t happen. Leadership at the top undoubtedly makes some difference, as policies and procedures do trickle down. But on the street level, neighborhood residents must take ownership of crime prevention as well.

—EAST DALLAS DUBYA, VIA ADVOCATEMAG.COM

Remodeling Talk...

For the Truth about Customer Satisfaction, Talk to the Customer

The Problem: What’s Believable?

When companies of any kind feature testimonials in their advertising, it usually reflects their strong value for delivering customer satisfaction. Sadly though, it’s possible for testimonials to represent the unusually good experience, rather than the rule.

Since we’re not talking about ice cream or a haircut, that’s something to consider when reading a few cherry-picked testimonials. If your home’s renovation isn’t done exactly as it should be, you can’t just “walk it off” or “grow it out”.

There is no “Remodeling Customers’ Bill of Rights”, so how can you choose a firm without jitters? Fingers uncrossed? Four quotes and a success story won’t give you the whole truth. Frankly, even our glowing customer letters, on the “Our Clients” tab at www.bellavistacompany.com, still don’t assure you we didn’t leave out the complaints.

The Solution: Transparency and Access

In 2009, we decided to remove ourselves as a fi lter and give you direct transparency into our customers’ satisfaction levels. We developed a detailed survey to measure satisfaction with each phase of our process. Results will be updated frequently, and will be our ongoing way of providing you the truth you deserve from any remodeling fi rm. Here’s how our customers currently grade us:

BELLA VISTA COMPANY

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION LEVELS

Contact: 4.5

Meetings & Planning: 4.7

Staff: 4.8

Pace: 4.4

Value: 4.8

The complete survey results are at www.bellavistacompany.com, on the “Our Clients” tab. You’ll see these averages combine for a cumulative 93% overall customer satisfaction rating. Even better, every single respondent circled “YES” to “Would you be willing to be a reference for our future customers?”

Discover the Truth: Talk to Our Customers

BellaVista customers are your neighbors and they would love to talk to you about the project you’re considering. It’s part of the fun in remodeling. We’ll make it easy – just tell us about the project you’d like to learn more about, and we’ll put you in touch with customers who can talk from experience. You’ll get the unfiltered truth, the confidence you deserve, and we bet you’ll even make a new friend in the process.

by: Alan Margulis

Our customers are warm, terrific people, and we enjoyed showing them the gratitude they deserve at our Annual Customer Appreciation Party. See what a great time we all had on the “Our Community Tab” at www.BellaVistaCompany.com.

Lance Tyler and Darin Breedlove, CR, CGR

…we’re not talking about ice cream or a haircut… if the renovation isn’t exactly right, you can’t just “walk it off” or “grow it out”.

LAUNCH

White Rock Lake is to artist CHRIS McHENRY what Water Lily Pond was to Claude Monet — McHenry doesn’t paint White Rock scenes because the lake is well-known, but rather because he hopes his attention to detail, and nostalgic and realistic touch might make our neighborhood gem known to art lovers around the globe. He’s well on his way — McHenry, along with his paintings of familiar-to-us landscapes and cityscapes, was featured in the November/December 2009 edition of International Artist magazine.

Is painting your primary occupation?

That’s what I do full-time these days. I first studied architecture and had to take a lot of art classes. I found that what I liked about architecture was the drawing and rendering. After that, I sort of eased into fine arts studies.

Looking at your work, it seems you have a fondness for White Rock Lake.

Yes. Even when I lived in Grand Prairie, when I was painting billboards for a living, I used to drive all the way to White Rock Lake. There aren’t too many urban areas where you have a lake with so much variety — the wetlands, the hills, the reflection of clouds on the water. When we looked for houses 10 years ago, we happened to come across one near the lake, with a bedroom with a view of the lake that I use as a studio. The neighborhood is perfect, and that it is by White Rock is the icing on the cake.

ROBERT BUNCH

more on CHRIS McHENRY

WHAT ELSE DO YOU LIKE PAINTING?

fromHappyHolidays! MedallionCenter

More Merry for your Money.

-Applebee’s -Avenue

-Backmender’s

-Centennial Liquor

-CiCi’s Pizza

-Eddie’s Tailor Shop

-Edward Jones

-Famous Footwear

-Fish Bone Grill

-Gallery Coiffures

-Herbmart

-Ingram’s Donuts

-Jenny Craig

-Justice - Just For Girls

-Kohl’s

-Medallion Animal Clinic

-Medallion Barbers

-The Men’s Wearhouse

-Oil Depot

-Party City

-Pier 1 Imports

-Radio Shack

-Rue 21

-Smiley Dental

-Socialite Salon

-Subway

-Supercuts

-Target

Places I am extremely familiar with that have a universal appeal — in a way that appeals to others who aren’t familiar with the spot. For example, I did a painting of the west side of the lake and someone told me it looked like a scene from their vacation home in Michigan. With something like that, I feel I’ve accomplished my goal. I try not to make the work look generic though — I don’t want to lose the specifics that make a place look real. The Turtle Creek area has a similar sense of scale (to White Rock Lake) with the natural and urban juxtaposition. You even feel that Downtown when you see an old turn of the century building next to new, enormous skyscrapers.

YOU MENTIONED PAINTING BILLBOARDS WHAT WAS THAT LIKE?

I went to school in New Orleans, and I worked in a shipyard and saw these guys painting billboards, and thought it looked fun. At the time, yes, we actually climbed up and painted the billboards. Some of them were high, and the job could get amazingly scary. When I was in my 20s, I had a job painting a cigarette ad on a billboard that was about 100 feet up in the air. When billboards are that high, they sway in the wind and it was windy the entire time we were on that job [5-6 long days].

THEN YOU DECIDED LANDSCAPES WERE SAFER?

Yes, but it took some time before I was able to quit my day job. The first show I did lasted a month, and I did not sell a single painting. But a dealer went on to show them to clients. In the next few weeks, she sold all four of my paintings — three of them to Roger Staubach. When I actually met Staubach a few years ago, I introduced myself and I told him that when he bought those paintings, I quit my day job. He responded, “How’s that working?”

DO YOU ACTUALLY SET UP AT THE SCENE TO PAINT?

I do some paintings on location, others I set up and paint for color combinations. Many famous artists have painted scenes of places that weren’t famous or remarkable at the time they were painted, but after they were painted, they became well known. That is one of the things I keep in mind when painting Dallas and our neighborhoods.

—CHRISTINA HUGHES BABB

WHAT GIVES?

Small ways that you can make a big difference for neighborhood nonprofits

DONATE A COAT ...

Wednesday, Dec. 9, at 6 p.m. during Mockingbird Station’s Victorian Christmas Night. During this time, a portion of the center will be transformed into a Victorian streetscape, complete with a Dickensian choir. Everyone is asked to bring a new or gently used coat to the Michael Raymond salon, which will donate them to The Family Place, a nonprofit that helps victims of family violence.

OR ATTEND AN EVENT

at Hyena’s Comedy Club, 5321 E. Mockingbird, on Wednesday, Dec. 16, at 7 p.m. That’s when a panel of local celebrity judges will crown a winner in the Hunky Santa pageant. Admission is $5 with all the proceeds benefitting Dress for Success, a nonprofit that helps disadvantaged women become self-sufficient.

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.

glad I found you”

– Robert Reagan

7th Annual Light Up Lakewood

Friday, December 4th from 6pm - 9pm

– Tree Lighting at 7pm –

Take Pictures with Santa Claus, Carriage Rides, “Variations” Carolers, a Petting Zoo, Bounce House and Story Telling with Mrs. Claus and many other Family Activites.

Presenting Sponsors:

Lakewood Homeowners Association

Additional Sponsors:

BeBe Grand

Blow Salon

Curiosities

Costello & Associates Realtors

Cantina Laredo

David Bush Homes

Hensley Photography

ETC

Lakewood Theater Legal Grounds

The “Lighting Guy”

Minute Man Press Deep Ellum

Paciugo Lakewood

Professional Bank Republic Title

Splendor in the Grass T Shop

Talulah Belle

Ryan Thebeau State Farm

Times Ten Cellars

Shaun Walding Realtors RE/MAX

Whole Foods

YMCA

Master of Ceremonies: Dallas City Councilman Sheffie Kadane

Every September, Marissa Dawson’s home starts filling up with model trains. About 11 years ago, she started painting the trains for NorthPark’s annual Ronald McDonald House of Dallas fundraiser. “In 1998, a family friend asked me if I would be interested in painting a couple just because she knew I like painting and drawing,” says Dawson, who lives in Cochran Heights. “So I did three trains the first year, and I’ve been doing it ever since.” Now she paints as many as 100 trains per year. Sponsors can pay $175 per train, and at the end of the season, they get to keep the train. And they can specify in the order what design they want, such as a corporate logo. “My favorite train of all

times is when a woman wanted Garfield in a Santa hat,” she says. “A guy last year wanted a snowman in cowboy boots.” She tries to make each one unique, which can become difficult for Dawson, who admits she’s not an artist. “My designs aren’t that great,” she says. “But if I see something, I can kind of copy it and make it my own.” The trains at NorthPark are on display through Jan. 3. Admission prices are $6 for adults, $3 for children and adults older than 65. —RACHEL STONE

ROBERT BUNCH

LAUNCHgrab-bag

SEAN MCGINTY

David McCullough’s work spans many mediums — watercolor, acrylic, acrylic-andsand, cement, tile, digital, steel, glass and the list goes on. He lives and works behind the burgeoning strip of nightlife on Henderson. McCullough sees the development as a boon to our neighborhood, a chance to interact with people who are attracted to his yard, which is overflowing with an eclectic mix of plants. “A lot of people will come by and see the garden and want a plant, or want to break off some of the plants that I have there for medicinal use,” he says. “It’s that kind of interaction that sparks a sense of community, a sense of belonging.” As an artist, McCullough is interested in capturing the resonances and rhythmical qualities of a place; he finds a place and tries to interpret what nature tells him, and he does this accompanied by jazz and music by indigenous people. “I’m working like a drummer. My palette’s on the right, so I kind of percuss my brush marks,” he says. During a recent Dallas Arboretum event, he was asked to paint live, accompanied by the Dallas Wind Symphony, in front of a picnicking crowd on the lawn. He started painting before the symphony began, during a Jack Hanna-type demonstration of an owl for the children in the audience. This provided McCullough’s initial inspiration for a canvas dominated by a brown, blue and mulberry owl; the owl is surrounded by craggy blue tree limbs and swirling, thick lines of paint. McCullough is represented by the HCG Gallery at 1130 Dragon. Call 214.760.9230 or visit hcggallery.com to see a selection of his work.

A GUIDE THROUGH THE MAZE OF CITY-REL ATED QUESTIONS

Our neighborhood association would like to have SIGN TOPPERS installed on our street poles as a way to show neighborhood pride. How do we do this?

Sign toppers are becoming more common in Dallas these days, but keep in mind two major factors: cost and approval. Because sign toppers aren’t associated with public safety, the city isn’t required to maintain this type of signage, nor does it have enough funds for installation or maintenance. The city does, however, allow sign topper projects to be privately funded. Here’s how it works:

1. If a neighborhood association decides it wants to foot the bill for sign toppers, it first needs approval from the city’s public works and transportation department. (This is required to ensure that signs do not interfere with public safety or federal sign standards.)

2. The request for sign toppers must include a design. Dimensions can be no bigger than 24 by 9 inches.

3. Neighbors must identify where to place the sign toppers. They can be installed only at locations with existing street name signs. Neighbors also must indicate sign direction — the streets with which the sign toppers will be parallel — and should determine the street pole type by measuring the circumference of each pole at the point the sign will be attached.

4. If the city approves the plan, the neighborhood association will bear the cost of the entire sign fabrication and installation. Sign manufacturers typically charge about $30 for each double-sided sign. Each set of brackets and hardware usually costs another $30. P lus, the association must pay the city to install the sign toppers because only city staff is authorized to work on public streets (the charge is roughly $20 per pole). Installation usually is complete within four to six weeks.

5. One last thing: The city can remove your sign toppers at any time without replacement if they become unsightly.

For information about sign topper projects, contact Alex Wong at 214.670.4654. —AUDRA GLOVER

PETPAUSE love at first nap

KAREN MURPHY’s cat, SUGAR, loves comfort, a luxury the feline has apparently located inside a shoebox. “It doesn’t look all that comfortable to me,” says Murphy, a Casa Linda resident.

out&about

ECE B ER

12.13.09

RUN TH E RO CK

Some 20,000 athletes are expected to participate in this year’s Metro PCS Dallas White Rock Marathon, which benefits the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital. It’s the 38th year for the city’s biggest marathon, and runners from all over the world will participate. As of press time, 80 percent of the slots had been sold, and organizers expect the race to sell out. Even though the marathon and half marathon are for serious runners, anyone can participate. The Mayor’s 5k Fun Run and Walk costs $5 for one person or $10 for a family of four, and it’s free for DISD students. And there’s also a 1-mile walk. The race starts at Victory Plaza, circles White Rock Lake and runs through our neighborhood, so cheering is another way to get involved. Get more information at runtherock.com.

RACHEL STONE

12.02

TREE LIGHTING

FREE This year’s Casa Linda tree lighting ceremony, from 5-7 p.m., includes choirs from Bryan Adams High School and Reinhardt and Hexter elementary schools.

reindeer are $5.

12.03-12.06 & 12.10-12-13 ALE XANDER

MANSION TOUR $5-$10 The Alexander Mansion at 4607 Ross is the last of the 19th century mansions that once lined this avenue. The Dallas Woman’s Forum annual tour of the address runs for two weekends, Thursday through Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tours being on the hour. 214.515.5172 or dallaswomansforum.org.

12.05 ART SHOW FREE “Art for the Masses,” a group show at the Dahlia Woods Gallery, includes new work from 11 artists. The opening reception is from 6-8:30 p.m., and the show runs through the end of January. 600 Cantegral, dahliawoodsgallery.com.

Photos with Santa on a sleigh with a live

CAN TÜRKYILMAZ

happeningsLAUNCH

FAIR PARKHOLIDAY

FREE During the Metro PCS Fair Park Holiday, from 2-7 p.m., all of the museums in Fair Park are free. The Dallas Wind Symphony Quintet performs at 4:30 p.m., and the official City of Dallas tree-lighting ceremony is at 6 p.m. The Esplanade fountain will have a “Bellagio-style” show set to music all day. fairpark.org

CHRISTMASCONCERT $10-$22

Collin County’s professional chamber chorus, The Texas Voices, will perform its annual Christmas concert, “My Spirit Rejoices: A Celebration of Advent and the Christmas Season.” The performance features the chancel choir from Northway Christian Church. The show starts at 7 p.m. at the church, 7202 W. Northwest Hwy. thetexasvoices.org.

VIVALDI CONCERT FREE Choirs from the Lake Highlands Presbyterian and Ridgewood Park United Methodist churches will perform Vivaldi’s “Gloria” at 7 p.m. Ridgewood Park UMC, 6445 E. Lovers.

BLUECHRISTMAS SERVICE FREE Christmas is a stressful holiday, and it can be sad for people in mourning. Blue Christmas services are designed to help worshippers get through it. The Lakewood United Methodist Church’s service starts at 6:30 p.m., 2443 Abrams, lakewoodumc.org.

SENIORS CHRISTMASLUNCH

$10 The Casa Linda AARP chapter’s annual Christmas lunch starts at 11:30 a.m. at the Knights of Columbus Lodge, 10110 Shoreview. Call 214.321.1705 for more information or to buy tickets in advance.

ART CONSPIRACY’S BIRTHDAY

$10 Art Conspiracy turns 5 this month, and its annual fundraiser features music from Telegraph Canyon, The Crash That Took Me, The Boom Boom Box and R2B2. Last year, Art Conspiracy raised $28,000 for charity, and this year’s proceeds will be donated to Resolana, an organization providing rehabilitative arts programming for women in the Dallas County Jail and Dawson State Jail in Dallas. Look for neighborhood artists Cabe Booth, Tish Brewer, Amber and Frank Campagna, Cathey Miller, Jayme Nourallah and Tori Webb Pendergrass at the 7 p.m. event. 511 W. Commerce, artconspiracy.org.

For over 60 years, Lakewood Family Dental Care has helped Lakewood smile. Whether you’re looking for a whiter smile, cosmetic dentistry, or just a simple cleaning, we care that you leave our office with a smile.

THE G SPECIAL ADVERTISING

CALLIDORA

Religious gifts and jewelry

We also have Sterling Silver, do custom work, and repairs.

2913 Greenville Ave. (next to BlueGoose) 214-515-9188 callidoragifts.com

SCARDELLO CHEESE

Handcrafted and artisan foods, including 140 cut-to-order cheeses, gourmet accompaniments and wine. Combine several items to create a custom gift box!

214.219.1300 scardellocheese.com

3511 OakLawn Ave.

IbC DESIGN

Visit us to see the selection of one of a kind custom stockings to lighten your holiday season. Custom bedding, throws and pillows.

2000 Greenville (before Ross @ Oram) T-Sat 11-5 214.515.9109 ibcdesignstudio.com

GREEN LIVING

Great green gifts for everyone on your list. Energy saving gadgets for him, Fair Trade Jewelry and Accessories for her, and handmade toys for the kids. 1904 Abrams Parkway. 214.821.8444

Hours & Info at green-living.com.

YOGA MART

Yoga mats, bolsters, blocks, jewelry, books, eye bags, men’s and women’s clothing for yoga and pilates...and more.

6039 Oram (at Skillman) 214.534.4469 yogamartusa.com

TOM BARRETT OPTICAL

Top off your Christmas shopping with a little something for yourself — Try out these timeless aviator sunglasses from Ray-Ban. Gift Certificates available.

5550 Greenville Ave.(Old Town) 214.368.0170 tombarrettoptical.com

BOWMAN HOT GLASS

Working glassblowing studio and gallery - offering unique art glass for any budget or occasion. Sign up for glassblowing classes. Architectual commissions available. 1419 Griffin St. E. (Cedars District close to downtown Dallas) Tues.-Sat., 11-5 or by appointment 214.426.4777 bowmanglass.com

BRUMLEY GARDENS

visit your local Brumley Gardens Christmas Store for all your sparkling Christmas cheer. Unique ornaments for your tree and for gift giving. brumleygardens.com 10540 Church Rd. 214.343.4900

T.HEE GREETINGS

Santa knows it’s best to shop local & we have everything you need to make your holidays special. Ornaments, decorations, gifts and gift wrapping all right here in your neighborhood. 9661 Audelia Rd. (next to Highlands Café) 214.747.5800 t-heegifts.com

THESTORE IN LAKEHIGHLANDS

sparkle this season...in Chamilia! own bracelet or necklace or perfect Holiday gift. Huge selection of much more.

ENWHwy@Ferndale (near Albertsons) 214.553.8850 Mon-Sat 9:30-5:30 TheStoreinLH.com

WINTER ART FAIR FREE

The Alex Sanger Elementary Winter Art Fair is back after a one-year absence. This year’s fair includes glass, hand-made textiles, ceramics, paintings, jewelry, handmade soaps and more. The sale is from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., 8410 San Leandro.

CHILDREN’S TEA

$50-$100 Former

First Lady Laura Bush will present her children’s book “Read All About It!” at a children’s Christmas tea at Rosine Hall at the Dallas Arboretum from 2-4 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum. More information is available at womenscouncildallasarboretum.org.

CHRISTMAS

BAZAAR FREE

The Bishop Lynch Brigade’s first Christmas bazaar features a dance and cheer competition. Vendors will line the school’s cafeteria and hallways, and Santa will be there for pictures. The sale benefits the drill team’s junior varsity and varsity squads. Ferguson and Peavy, bishoplynchbrigade.org.

LOCALHONEYMIX CONCERT

East Dallas diva Kelly Brown, the brains and beauty behind Local Honey, brings her annual mix show to the Lakewood Theater. This year’s mix includes Bryan Wakeland of the Polyphonic Spree, fiddler Reggie Rueffer, jazz trumpeter Freddie Jones and KERA DJ Paul Slavens on keyboard. Check localhoney. org for ticket prices.

ARTY L KE YOU OW T E LACE

t o a to a t at

sian appetizers like dumplings, spring rolls and corn patties.

GREENVILLE & ALTA

214.826.6300

NANDINARESTAURANT.COM

TRA ER V C

It may be the dead of win ter, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a tropical-themed party in the Tiki L oung e, complete with one of those fruity libations in a coconut shell.

MOCKINGBIRD & CENTRAL EXPWY

214.823.0600

TRADERVICSDALLAS.COM

T ART W E B TRO

Do private parties big here wi th personal bartenders for you and 200 of your closest buddies — or arrange an intimate wine dinner for just a few.

GREENVILLE & VANDERBILT 214.826.0940

STMARTINSWINEBISTRO.COM

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG $ FB A new breakfast experience comes to Casa Linda Plaza. Fluffy omelets filled with cream cheese and topped with crab await you. Traditional breakfasts, bananas fosters pancakes, full children’s menu, and exciting benedicts are just a few of the discoveries in over ninety entrée’s. Also, offering bloody marys, top shelf mimosas, and grown local zip code honey! 1152 N Buckner Blvd (across from Doctors Hospital.) 214.954.7182

BACK COUNTRY BBQ $ WB Over 30 years of Texasstyle BBQ. Family dining - 8 different meats, variety of homemade vegetables. Complete catering & custom cooking. Beer, wine, margaritas. 6940 Greenville Ave. 214.696.6940.

CINDI’S NY DELI, RESTAURANT & BAKERY $ A little of everything for everyone! Cindi’s has the best bagels, blintzes, latkes, matzo ball soups and quiches in town. Fantastic breakfast served all day. Excellent home-style lunch and dinner specials. Extensive dessert selections including cakes, pastries, pies and bread pudding. 11111 North Central Exprsswy. 214.739.0918; 7522 Campbell Rd. 972.248.0608; 3565 Forest Ln. 972.241.9204; And now our newest location: 2001 Midway Rd. 972.458.7740

CIRCLE GRILL RESTAURANT $ New Whole

Wheat Bran Pancakes the perfect addition to any breakfast. Don’t forget we are also here for dinner three days a week. Pop in and try some of our amazing dinner specials like our Prime Rib or Grilled Salmon. Come Home to the Circle Grill. Sun-Wed 6am-4pm Thurs-Sat 6am-9pm. Banquet Facilities Available. Breakfast served all day. Be sure to make your reservations today for meetings and Holiday Parties. 3701 N. Buckner 214-327-4140

GARDEN CAFÉ $ OD “Funky” and “off the beaten path” are the usual descriptions of this old East Dallas breakfast and lunch favorite. Fresh herbs and vegetables from the garden in the back of the Café add to the ambiance. Photography shows, book signings and poetry readings make it a favorite with locals, artists and neighborhood groups. 5310 Junius Street, Munger Square Center. 214.887.8330. www.gardencafe.net

SZECHWAN PAVILION $$ FB Szechwan and Mandarin cuisine. Close to 100 items on this reasonably priced menu and buffet. Wonderful selection of grilled steak, shrimp, crab rangoon, sesame chicken, chow-mein, fried rice, egg roll and desserts. Established 1980. Clean and spacious dining room. 1152 N. Buckner Blvd. 75218. 214.321.7599. www.szechwanpavilion.com.

TERILLI’S OD FB Terilli’s, which has been open for over 20 years, continues to attract savvy diners interested in great food, live jazz, and tons of fun! Terilli’s unique Italian fare, including their signature ‘Italchos’ (Italian nachos), brightens a stressful day or provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening! Speaking of romance, don’t miss the the opportunity to soak in some live jazz while you experience Terilli’s fine Italian fare! 2815 Greenville Ave. 214.827.3993.

TILLMAN’S ROADHOUSE $$ OD WB Tillman’s is a place for really good food, drinks, and music in a fun, casual, come-as-you-are environment. An update on the classic Texas roadhouse with regional menu favorites, familiar tunes and no-one is a stranger hospitality — all energized with a modern take. A combination of both rustic and lush in everything from the menu to the décor make Tillman’s a good-time anytime destination. Bishop Arts District 324 West 7th St. 214.942.0988. www.tillmansroadhouse.com

SZECHWAN PAVILION Since 1980, we have offered the finest Chinese food in Dallas. Choose from our gourmet menu or convenient buffet.

Michael O’Brien and Chris Harwood

SZECHWAN PAVILION

champagne in a beer-budget world

JEAN-FRANÇOIS MERIEAU BULLES ($24) FRANCE>

TheChampagne and sparkling wine business is in tatters, and that’s not good news as we approach the most bubbly time of year. Sales, thanks to the recession, are down, and it’s so bad for the French (who produce the only sparkling wine that is allowed to be called Champagne) that they’re drastically cutting production in an attempt to keep prices up.

Throw in the weak dollar, which has raised the cost of imported wine as much as 20 percent over the last year, and it’s difficult to find a bargain even among those sparkling wines that always been a bargain. And it’s even more ficult to find interesting sparkling wines that are a bargain.

Nevertheless, there are still some out there, and these three are interesting and reasonably affordable:

This

French wine not made in the Champagne region is a nice alternative to inexpensive Spanish sparklers like Cristalino. It has lots of chardonnay fruit and good acidity.

This is another French wine, from the Loire, that offers value and something other than the ordinary sparkling wine. It’s made mostly of chenin blanc, as opposed to chardonnay, which means it’s dry and not quite as apple-y. This is one of the most interesting sparkling wines I tasted this year.

ThisCalifornia wine has a touch of caramel, good, dark pinot fruit and lively acid. I was a little surprised that I enjoyed it as much as I did.

—JEFF SIEGEL

JEFFSIEGEL’S WEEKLY WINE REVIEWS appear every Wednesday on the Advocate Back Talk blog, advocatemag.com/lakewood/blog.

food&wineLAUNCH

WITH YOUR WINE

Chocolate yeast bread

I used to have a terrific recipe for chocolate bread, which has long since vanished. It wasn’t a cake or a short bread, but a real bread – yeasty and toastable and pretty amazing. The recipe here is a variation of one published by the Godiva chocolate people, which has been floating around for years. I’d upgrade the chocolate chips with bestquality baking chocolate and substitute 1 cup warm coffee for the water. Serve this as holiday treat with your favorite sparkling wine (or, toasted with peanut butter for your kids).

Serves four, about 15 minutes

GROCERY LIST

1 pkg active dry yeast

4 1/2 c bread flour

1/3 c unsweetened cocoa

2 Tbsp sugar

1 tsp salt

1/4 tsp baking soda

1/2 c milk

1 c water

1/2 c semi-sweet chocolate chips

1. In a large bowl, mix yeast, 1 1/4 cups flour, cocoa, sugar, salt and soda. Heat milk, water, semi-sweet chocolate chips and butter, stirring until chocolate is melted. Add to dry ingredients. Beat at medium speed of electric mixer for two minutes. Add 1/2 cup more flour. Beat at high speed for two minutes. Add egg. Stir in enough flour to make a firm dough.

2. Turn out on lightly floured surface. Knead until smooth and elastic. Put in oiled bowl, turning to oil top. Cover with a sheet of plastic wrap. Let rise in warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.

1 egg 2010

3. Punch dough down. Shape into two loaves. Put in greased 8x4 loaf pans. Let rise for 30 minutes. Bake at 375 degrees for 25 minutes or until loaf sounds hollow when tapped with finger. Remove to wire racks to cool.

ask the WINE GUY?

Q: WHY DO PEOPLE TALK ABOUT ACIDITY IN WINE?

A: All wines have acidity, and is a crucial part of well-made wine. It’s there to balance the other components, like sweetness and fruitiness — like lemonade. It’s a crucial part of sparkling wine, in particular.

—JEFF SIEGEL

taste@advocatemag.com

Price is $10

Buy one meal,get 2nd of equal or lower value FREE! (some restrictions apply)

Valid Jan 2 - Oct 31,2010

For coupon books call the Peninsula Neighborhood Association at 972.533.1144 or stop by The Green Spot at Buckner & Northcliff,or the service desk at any of these Albertsons:Casa Linda, Mockingbird & Abrams,or E Northwest

5916 & 5918 Oram $322,000

6406 Chesley $249,900

Greetings from C. C. Young –Dallas’ most desired retirement community!

SENIOR CARE RESOURCE GUIDE

ADVERTISINGSUPPLEMENT

Letter from Dr. Randall Nyman, President Resident Council

In these economic times where we’re all more conscious of our dollar, I’m happy to share with you an incredible opportunity to live worry free in a home nestled on eight heavily wooded acres in Dallas’ Historic District, the former prestigious Hockaday girl’s private school. A senior living community offering spacious apartment homes, beautiful landscaping, gated community, three meals a day, transportation, concierge services and much more. I personally invite you to visit us and tour this Dallas landmark, Vickery Towers. Call Sabina Harlan, Executive Director, anytime at 214-826-1113.

Vickery Towers

5619 Belmont Ave.

Dallas, TX 75206

214-826-1113

Juliette Fowler Homes –A Heritage of Caring

One campus in the heart of Dallas - serving the needs of our community since 1892. The sixteen acre, tree-lined campus has three programs for seniors.

The Jackson Living Center - independent and assisted living apartments with several floor plans and appropriate health care services.

Fowler Christian Apartments – independent and assisted living apartments for seniors with limited incomes.

The Pearl Nordan Care Center - 24-hour long-term and skilled nursing care. Spring 2010 is the grand opening of our newly remodeled, state-of-the-art therapy wing,

All programs have beauty/barber shops, transportation, three meals a-day served in beautiful dining rooms, activities, and chapel services.

Juliette Fowler Homes, Inc.

1234 Abrams Road Dallas, TX 75214 214-827-0813

www.fowlerhomes.org

C. C. Young is a community that is on the “grow” as we add new programs and expand our current offerings. We recently opened The Point, Center for Arts and Education, as the first step in our journey to transform the C. C. Young campus into an even more state-of-the-art constellation of service response to the changing needs of individuals outside our campus and within our community. The Point is rapidly becoming the focal point for participation in a host of different lifestyle, cultural, wellness and fitness, and social opportunities on the campus. Through many collaborative relationships, The Point offers seniors a rich and comprehensive array of programs, educational, and developmental opportunities.

As we near the beginning of construction on The Overlook, we look forward to the next step in transforming C. C. Young into a community focused on lifestyle. By opting for residency at The Overlook, all the services and programs that C. C. Young offers –including all health care options – become available on a priority basis. The good news for you is that we still have many prime locations and great floor plans from which to choose.

You currently have the luxury of time to make the final decisions about actually moving. You will have the opportunity to finalize your interior selections to personalize your new home and schedule the move at a pace that fits your timing. To take advantage of this opportunity, you must become a 10% depositor between now and February 2010.

We hold “Lunch and Learn” programs monthly at The Point to share our ideas about C. C. Young and The Overlook with interested parties. Each program begins at 11:00am. We would be delighted to have you attend. Simply call 214-8747474 to reserve a seat.

the best

The C. C. Young Tradition

Located on 20 wooded acres overlooking White Rock Lake in Dallas, C.C. Young is a not-for-profit continuing care retirement community. It is affi liated with the North Texas Methodist Conference of the United Methodist Church. For more than 87 years, C.C. Young has graciously delivered a comprehensive array of quality services and provided residences and amenities for people of retirement age.

C.C. Young is on the cutting edge of providing senior living services in the Lakewood, Lake Highlands, White Rock Lake and Preston Hollow neighborhoods. Fueled by past success, we are starting construction in December on The Overlook, a 108-unit apartment expansion overlooking White Rock Lake.

Vision and Mission

Our Vision is to provide a community where every life and every age is valued and enriched.

Our Mission is to work with others to transform our complementary service responses to the aged. Through collaboration, we will intensify and broaden our programs and services so that each individual may flourish in body, mind and spirit.

Accommodations, Services and Programs

Outstanding care, services and a variety of accommodations and living options are offered on our campus. Accommodations and available programs include:

• Residential Apartments – Asbury and Thomas

• Memory Support – The Cove

• The Point, Center for Art and Education

• Assisted Living – The Blanton

• Long Term Care – Lawther Point

• Seasons Hospice – Lawther Point

When The Overlook is completed in 2011, our current Charter Members will see their retirement dream fulfilled. You can experience that same opportunity by reserving your Overlook residence now.

For more information, please call 214.874.7474 or stop in to see us at 4847 West Lawther Drive, Dallas, TX. Or visit our website: www.ccyoung.org.

Forget designer labels, mall crowds and perfectly wrapped packages. This year’s hottest gifts are handmade close to home.

STORY BY CHRISTINA HUGHES BABB PHOTOS BY CAN TÜRKYILMAZ

THINK

OUTSIDE

THE GIFT BOX

Maybe it’s the chill in the air, the splashes of crimson in the trees, or the sound of a familiar melody you haven’t heard since, oh, about a year ago. Do hints of the impending holidays send you straight to the nearest mall, where you fight fellow frenzied shoppers for mass-produced presents?

This year, forgo the status quo. Instead, take a deep breath, peruse the following pages, and then do some shopping you can really feel good about.

Like an army of Santa’s helpers, many of your creatively gifted neighbors are busy in their workshops crafting one-of-a-kind items that are sure to garner many oohs, ahhs and heartfelt thanks from your loved ones this year.

F Is For Frank

Have a dreamer on your gift list? Pewter doorknobs sculpted into whimsical shapes — a sleepy-faced owl, a cartoonish mushroom, and a red-eyed lady bug resembling a Tim Burton design — are among the clever creations crafted by the brilliant ladies at F is for Frank.

Shannah Frank, who once worked with a restoration company, founded F is for Frank a few years ago.

Neighborhood resident Casey Melton, a student of sculpture and marketing, became a partner last summer.

“I knew I wanted to do functional art,” Melton says. "This was a good fit."

The twosome’s talents meld beautifully to produce pieces of form and function. In addition to trendsetting hardware, the designers have a line

THINK OUTSIDE THE GIFT BOX

of nature-inspired jewelry — one of Melton’s favorite is the Sea Sponge Ring in gold-plated pewter. Men’s cufflinks look like tiny cave drawings on gold and pewter.

“We are constantly coming out with more jewelry — each piece is sculptural and architectural,” Melton says.

And each looks like it was plucked

from some mystical place on planet Earth. The women’s passion outside their craft? Their pups.

“Our dogs come to work with us,” Melton says.

In honor of the furry muses, F is for Frank launched a line of dog tags (they are “crazy cute,” Melton says) just in time to stuff in doggie stockings.

WEBSITE: fisforfrank.com

STOREFRONT: 1216 Manufacturing

PRICE RANGE: $16-$85

CONTACT: 214.749.0709

“WE ARE CONSTANTLY COMINGOUTWITH MORE JEWELRY — EACH PIECE ISSCULPTURAL AND ARCHITECTURAL.”

There was no diet Melanie Childress hadn’t tried—and failed. Then she tried the only weight loss tool that works. Knowledge.

Our dieticians taught her how to eat right. Our personal trainers taught her how to exercise. And progress taught her to keep going. She learned how to lose, and became a success. 50%

Patti Haskins

Call 214.820.7872 or visit baylortomlandryfitnesscenter.com

We’ll soon tackle the topic of presents for pets — but first, what about those pet-obsessed people? You know one, right? Maybe that coworker whose cubicle is crowded with framed photos of her cat?

Casa Linda resident Patti Haskins can custom create cushy critters to closely resemble your friend’s beloved cat, your own furball or any other pet you commission her to immortalize — she has even done ferrets.

Send Haskins a photo of the subject and give her about four to six weeks to complete a plush impression.

“It will be my interpretation of your photo, and it will be crocheted, so it won’t look exactly like your pet — but it will be a good representation.”

For on-the-fly gifts, Haskins has an assortment of handcrafted critters, pillows and other plush playthings

THINK OUTSIDE THE GIFT BOX

including a detailed and accurate yarn version of Moishe from “Where the Wild Things Are”. There is a story behind each piece in Haskins’ collection, which she shares on her Etsy website, pattihaskins.com.

And locals, if you’re lucky, you might be able to evade the small shipping fee, Haskins says.

“I sometimes meet people at Starbucks [or the like] to deliver their order.”

WEBSITE: pattihaskins.com

PRICE RANGE: $65-$75 CONTACT: info@pattihaskins.com

“...IT WON’T LOOKEXACTLY LIKE YOUR PET —BUTIT WILL BE A GOOD REPRESENTATION.”

What goes well with a LolaFalk bag?

Folksy, color-fueled accessories from Superchica by neighbor Judy Stump. Wrist cuffs, headbands and funky T-shirts are just a few of Stump’s signature items. Check them out at superchica.com.

THINK OUTSIDE THE GIFT BOX

On yourgift list, no doubt, there’s a woman who is tough to figure out — she’s a free spirit who treasures individuality, loves bright colors, and leans toward the spotlight.

This holiday season, introduce her to a kindred spirit, the “subtly eclectic and understatedly quirky” LolaFalk — known in her human form as Lauren Lola Falkowski, designer of dynamically detailed handbags and totes.

The designer with a knack for taking seemingly incompatible textures, patterns and colors and making them coexist learned from workshops and online tutorials how to sew and craft totes.

“It all stems from this desire to have a certain type of handbag that I couldn’t find anywhere, so I made the one I wanted for myself,” she says. “I think you’ll find a lot of independent artists got started that way.”

Every LolaFalk bag is a one-of-a-kind. There are several styles — the roomy Urban Lola Tote, the structured Jackie Bag, the delicate Lulu Clutch, and vintage-y Greta Purse — but each is made from varying fabrics and colors. No two are the same.

WEBSITE: lolafalk.com

IN STORE: Make Studio, 313 N. Bishop

PRICE RANGE: $29-$79

CONTACT: lolafalk@gmail.com

Happy Holidays from Ron’s Organics

Like a qualitytattoo, each piece in Abbie Chesney’s “Eye on the Sparrow” collection is stylishly edgy, and each is infused with a compelling story. Her guitar-string bracelets and earrings are the perfect (removable) body adornment for the rock star on your list.

Chesney started crafting jewelry from used guitar and bass strings following the death of a friend, Dallas musician Carter Albrecht, in 2007. She wanted to do something symbolic in his memory, but that inspiration went through several stages before taking shape.

“I tossed a lot of ideas around...I got a tattoo. It was just a long process of me listening to myself and letting the idea grow organically,” she says.

The “aha!” moment hit when her boyfriend, a guitarist in the band Shibboleth, was re-stringing his instrument and lamenting the trashing of his worn strings.

“They throw the strings away,” Chesney says, “but there’s a lot of memories and music locked into these strings. I started tinkering around with them. Turned out it was pretty easy to make the first bracelet.”

Now, Chesney is contriving new jewels with each donated string — chunky designs are made with E bass strings, while slimmer styles are fashioned from acoustic guitar strings. And a portion of each sale goes to the Carter Albrecht Music Foundation, which supports Dallas musicians.

WEBSITE: Search for “Eye on the Sparrow” at etsy.com

PRICE RANGE: $28-$42

CONTACT: abbie.r.chesney@gmail. com

Tune in to KLIF 570 Sunday Mornings from 8-9am to the Natural Living and Garden Show with Ron and Mona Hall “your local neighborhood garden experts”

Rob Braun 9601White Rock Trail, Suite 214 214-343-1515 www.robbraun.net

John Hamman, CPCU 8330 Abrams Rd., Suite 104 214-341-3050 john.hamman.lcjs@statefarm.com

Jim Collins, CLU 11807 Preston Rd. 214-349-7455 jim.collins.bts5@statefarm.com

Reginald W. Johnson 6333 E Mockingbird,Ste. 275 214-821-4242 reginald.johnson.coqr@statefarm.com

Jennifer Wilcox 9660 Audelia Rd., Suite 123 214-348-0480 www.jenniferwilcox.com

AWAY, BUTTHERE’S A LOT OF

AND MUSIC LOCKEDINTO THESESTRINGS.”

CAC Mosaic Designs

THINK OUTSIDE THE GIFT BOX

Whodoesn’t want to see something pretty when they look in the mirror? The recipient of a CAC Mosaic looking glass will see beauty even on a post-party, pre-makeup morning. Little Forest Hills artist Connie Chantilis uses glass, shells, rocks, minerals, fossils, vintage pottery and “anything else that speaks to me” to craft wall art, sculpture and furniture evocative of a mysterious underwater world.

“I am a collector of everything under the sun,” she says.

About nine years ago, she “started messing around with” collected items, and they morphed into these imaginative pieces.

You can pick up items from Chantilis’ collection throughout the month of December at Curiosities in Lakewood Shopping Center, or call to schedule a studio appointment.

WEBSITE: cacmosaicdesigns.com

IN STORE: Curiosities, 2025 Abrams PRICE RANGE: $75-$1,700 CONTACT: 214.808.5790

Wishing you a happy holiday season and thanking you for your continued support. Dr. Meyer and the staff at Dallas Eyeworks.

Seed Sucker Inc.

Is thereanythingmorecomfy than a perfect-fitting lightweight T-shirt? Seed Sucker Inc. (“spreading eco-awareness one T-shirt at a time”) has the ideal apparel for your favorite treehugger.

The clothing tags contain a blend of seeds that, if properly planted, will produce pretty flowers — hence the Seed Sucker moniker. In addition to bamboo-organic-cotton-blend men’s, women’s and kids shirts bearing messages (“recycling one 3-foot stack of newspapers saves one tree”), Seed Sucker sells baby onesies with thoughtful quotes (“make

What goes well with a Seed Sucker T?

A cozy autumncolored crotched hat from neighborhood-based Modest Ambition, purveyors of dazzlingly dainty things.

Visit y-e-arning. blogspot.com.

THINK OUTSIDE THE GIFT BOX

The enthusiastic owner, neighbo rhood resident Debbie Wright, started making the Seed Sucker brand as a fundraising endeavor.

“I had been doing these fundraisers for my daughter’s school that were pretty boring,” she says, asking her website viewers, “Do we really want another bucket of cookie dough?”

Wright started making the ecofriendly and educational shirts as an alternative to the traditional school/ scout/team fundraiser. The fundrais-

er with a facelift, she calls it, “that won’t cause your friends, co-workers or family members to go running for the hills when you show up with the dreaded catalog order form full of not-so goodies,” she writes on the site.

Wright recently moved the Seed Sucker team to a building at the corner of Swiss and Good Lattimer, where business will continue to bloom with several new lines and designs.

WEBSITE: seedsucker.org

PRICE RANGE: $24-$32 CONTACT: 214.370.9520 OR info@seedsucker.com

a change, my future depends on it”).

What goes well with a Big Boy Bone?

Delicious stocking stuffers. Flying Doggies makes homemade oven-baked dog treats from organic ingredients — your pup will woof ’em down. And co-owner Joe Reider will deliver the prettily packaged canine cookies to your door. Visit myflyingdoggies.com.

Big Boy Bones

Goodnews for those furry family members who love to chew on everything. (No, not your crazy cousin Eddie). This neighborhoodbased line is dedicated to the dogs. Samantha Abedin, who as a child learned to sew from her grandmother, was happily in the business of crafting fashionably feminine and nostalgic-looking purses, when a donation of high-end sample fabrics got her thinking outside the handbag and about the bones that her schnauzer Snoopy, who was recently diagnosed with diabetes, liked to chew into an unrecognizable rawhide wad.

“I decided to make him a dog bone [from the fabric samples] to comfort him,” Abedin says. “He seemed to love it, so I made my terrier Yahoo one as well.”

That marked the birth of her company, Big Boy Bones.

Now, if you’re thinking that letting dogs chew on expensive fabrics is extravagant — think again. At just $10 each, these bones are built to last.

“Yahoo usually destroys any toy you give him the very first night and his bone lasted him over a month,

THINK OUTSIDE THE GIFT BOX

which was amazing.”

The handmade bones come in a plethora of patterns fit for all breeds from the frilliest little pups to the biggest toughest hounds. After Abedin started making them for friends’ dogs, the brand took off.

Big Boy Bones are now available in six area stores, and Snoopy, who was feeling pretty bad back when this all started, has bounced back into life.

“He serves not only as the inspiration for Big Boy Bones,” Abedin says, “but also as the CEO, traveling with me for as long as our Texas summers will allow.” n

WEBSITE: bigboybones.com; samanthaabedin.com (purses)

IN STORE: Unleashed, 5151

Samuell; Green Pet, 315 N. Bishop CONTACT: 214.503.3455; Samantha@bigboybones.com

Garden Inspired Gifts

Orchids, Amaryllis, unique garden accessories, Garden Coach sessions & custom European plant baskets are amazing gifts for the holidays. NHG Gift Cards are the most thoughtful last minute gifts! Holiday

“YAHOO USUALLY DESTROYS ANY TOYYOU GIVE HIM THE VERY FIRST NIGHT, AND HIS BONE LASTED HIMOVER A MONTH, WHICH WAS AMAZING.”

GOTTA RUN!

It’s painful, exhausting and time consuming — but there’s something about distance running that has neighbors signing up in droves.

On an unseasonably tepid Sunday morninglastDecember,thousands of men and women set off on a 26.2-mile trek around the city runnersworepained expressions as they traversed therollingLakewoodterrain. Many slowed as they rounded anexcruciatinglygustystretch along White Rock Lake.

Severalstopped,spent,before

STORY BY CHRISTINA HUGHES BABB

PHOTOS BY CAN TÜRKYILMAZ

BUY LOCAL. MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

Greg Hall helps not only runners but also the community via his Dallas Running Club president post.

reaching the peak of the hill at mile 22. Some crumbled. Some vomited. But the bulk of them kept moving to the finish line.

Despite the fanfare, long-distance racing can be a brutal experience for the contestant — (“worse than childbirth”, one female runner says) sowhyisitthatdrovesof runnerswillreturntothescene Sunday, Dec. 13, to run the White Rock Marathon again?

“Thefactthatitwasmiserable and I had my worst marathon ever makesmewanttodoitagain,” ChrisStrattonsaysaboutlast year’s race.

“Partially because I know it won’t be as bad, and partially because I want to learn from my mistakes and

overcome setbacks.”

He’s not just in this for himself, though. Stratton is training coordinator for the Dallas Running Club, a group 4,000 strong (the third largest in the United States) that saw its membership blossom from about 600 members after launching halfmarathonandmarathontraining programs in 2007.

Fromhisvolunteerposition,he shares hard-won wisdom with hundreds of runners looking to him for advice. On a long-distance training run,hemightanswerdozensof questionsregardinginjuries,diet, cross-training or overcoming rough patches, all while keeping pace for a group and tracking the miles and turns.

“We get two schools of people — one type comes out simply because they want to accomplish something they never thought they could. They use the group to motivate and keep them accountable,” Stratton says.

“Another type comes out because theylikerunning,buttheylike doing it in a social group even more. The latter isn’t as concerned with

times as they are with having a fun, healthy habitandmaking friends.”

DallasRunning Club’sPatMetcalf (a woman with an “amazing personality”, Stratton says) leadsStratton’s 9:30- to 10-minute milers’ halfmarathonpace group.Onany given training day, Metcalf can be heard miles away cheering her group.

“Come on! Swing those arms,” she shouts, even as she is pushing herself up the hill.

Just a fewyearsago,Metcalf weighed nearly 350 pounds.

Following gastric bypass surgery, she needed exercise. A friend talked her into joining the club’s half marathon training program.

“I hated it for four months,” she says. “I am a goal-oriented person, so I thought I would stick it out throughthathalfmarathonand stop running after that.”

Butafterthosefirstmonths, Metcalfsaysshebeganenjoying herself. Fellow club members had muchtodowiththechangeof heart, she says. You suffer and celebrate with people when you train with a group, she says, and that builds bonds.

Metcalfsaysthecamaraderie keeps her inspired. In fact, after tackling that first half marathon, she went on to complete a full marathon.Now,likeStratton,she’s helping others reach their goals.

“The idea of leading scared me a little at first. I wasn’t sure I knew enough about running — but I did believe I could ‘rah rah’ people.”

Forex-militarymanGregHall, running is like a religion, he says.

When Hall became president of theclublastyear,hemade a few changes. At the first monthly club race under his direction last winter, he made 400 chilly, sparingly dressed runners wait at the start line as he spent a few minutesrememberingtheAmerican

troops,pastandpresent. He requested a moment of silenceandthenplayed the National Anthem over the PA system.

“I think while we are all together, we should take a momenttohonorour country, think about peace, ending hunger or whatever needs to be done in order to make the world a better place,” Hall says.

“I’mnotreligious,but I guess you might say I’m spiritual.”

Like many runners, he’s ritualistic.Club participants expect every race to begin the same way, with a moment of silence and the National Anthem, followed by three words Hall has made the unofficial club motto — “Today, we run.”

Duringhisterm,Hallhas increasedtheclub’snumberof volunteerboardmembers,and emphasized the importance of volunteerism and community service. The club is involved with Special Olympics,anditsmajorraces, including the DRC Half Marathon each November, benefit a scholarship fund for DISD students.

Noble ideals might add magic to the sport, but when the runners lineupatthemarathonstart, know that most of them have put in miles of sweat, grit and discipline preparing for the day.

“Quitefrankly,itrequires a lifestylechange,”Strattonsays.

“Running a great marathon takes a four-orfive-montheffortand focusonrunning,eatingwell, sleeping well, and taking care of nagginginjuries.Theoneswho drop out are always the ones who don’t realize this.”

Those who finish strong will walk a way with a sense that they can take on the world, and the ones who falter will know there’s always tomorrow, Stratton says.

“You can’t ever quit on running or the marathon. The only thing worsethanhaving a badrace isnever g ivingyourselfanother chance.”

LEARN MORE about the Dallas Running Club at dallasrunningclub.com

LIVE LOCAL

THE LOWDOWN ON WHAT ’S U P WI TH NE IGHBORHOOD BUSINESSES

This holiday season, are you taking some time to start holiday traditions? One neighborhood resident, determined to make Thanksgiving about more than just football and turkey, decided to start up a biz that could help families like her own take some time out to enjoy the moment. Chasity McReynolds founded Two Rivers, a company that sells original artwork designed to help families document special times around Thanksgiving and Christmas. McReynolds latest product line is a wall hanging of a Christmas tree with 12 branches on each side and a star on top for the 25th (Christmas). Ever y day families can write their blessings on an ornament and hang them on the appropriate branch. “It’s a way to bring the meaning of Christmas away from ‘what I want’ to being thankful for what I have,” McReynolds explains. Check out her products at thanksgivingtree.com.

You may have seen it as you’re coming and going from the A rboretum, but did you know that Walton’s Garden C enter, 8652 Garland, has been family owned and operated for almost 24 years? On many days, you can catch the shop’s owners, Chuck and Ann Walton, helping customers or working the retail counter. Recently, the couple have been busy working on some massive renovations, including adding a second story and a new temperature controlled greenhouse, plus adding a new retail pavilion. Holiday tip: Did you know that the Waltons receive a shipment of hundreds of Christmas trees each year? You can even bring your own stand, and they will help you install your tree. The shop is open Monday through Saturday, 8:30 a.m.6 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., but the Waltons will stay open a bit later as needed for Christmas tree shoppers.

We Are 1976 , a gift boutique specializing in handmade items, has moved into the shopping center at Henderson and

McMillan. Vynsie Law of Hollywood Heights is opening the boutique with her brother, Derek Law, and her former sister-in-law, Jully Law. The store sells one-of-a-kind items from Dallas designers and artists, as well as from creatives around the world. There are Japanese toy designers and English crafters, Vynsie Law says, and she wants to create a gallery space just for Dallas-based producers of handmade stuff. “We love Dallas, and we just want to showcase some of the talent here,” she says.

Tiny Killer Robot Jiu Jitsu opened last month in the retail space on Bryan Street where House of Dang used to be. Lakewood resident Rob Ables opened the studio after working for other studios for the past 15 years. So what’s with the name? Ables says he is a big kid, and wanted to have fun with what he did for a living. “The name just sounded cool and reminded me of a funny movie where these security guards were super scared of tiny wind-up robots. [The security guards] jump out of a window yelling “ahh! tiny killer robots...” Ables says. The studio specializes in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, a grappling style of fighting used in the UFC. The studio offers adult classes five days a week and children’s classes four days a week. For the rest of 2009, a monthly membership is $100 for adults and $80 for children, and members get unlimited access to classes. There is no sign-up fee, but students must buy uniforms, which cost between $50 and $200. For information call 682.554.5220 or email robables@ ymail.com.

Trying to get your high-schooler accepted into college? Junius Heights resident Andrea Loubier started Critical Writing Coach , an SAT/ACT essay prep seminar designed to help sophomores, juniors and seniors taking standardized achievement tests score better on the more subjective essay portion of the exams. “Competition for getting into college is getting more and more intense,” Loubier says, “and colleges are often turning to the essay written on these tests as a differentiator.” The National Association for College Admission Counseling indicates all college applications should be mailed before the end of December, so get on it folks! You can sign up for workshops or private seminars; visit criticalwritingcoach. com for details. Or get a jump-start on 2010 — Loubier is launching a DVD series in January.

The Dallas Spanish House (dallasspanishhouse.com) is a language school that offers Spanish (SSL) and English-as-aSecond-Language (ESL) classes to adults and children. Owners Luis Martinez and Catherine Wallace opened the school, located at Prospect and Matilda, a couple of years ago. The couple initially taught classes out of their house in the Knox/Henderson area, but as the demand for their classes began to grow, along with the size of their family, they knew it was time to set up shop somewhere else. One of their favorite things about their location is that it’s within walking distance from their home. Martinez is originally from Oaxaca, Mexico, where he taught SSL for more than 10 years. Martinez, who has a theatrical background, likes to make his classes both educational and entertaining. Wallace has some serious East Dallas roots, with her family living in the area dating back as far as 80 years ago. She taught ESL in the Dallas ISD for seven years before moving to Oaxaca, Mexico, to study Spanish and teach English. In January the pair are starting a new Spanish Immersion Preschool program.

Visit the Advocate blog at advocatemag.com/lakewood/blog

Erin Moyer is a local entrepreneur who owns her own small business manufacturing original women and children’s clothes and accessories (progenyinc.com), plus a consulting business specializing in marketing and business development. Her monthly “Live Local” column features anything and everything we might want to know about some of our favorite mom-and-pop shops, as well as what’s up and coming in our neighborhood as it relates to business. The Live LocalEast Dallas organization (livelocaleastdallas.com) is all about supporting neighbors and helping our community thrive. Send Moyer ideas and feedback at livelocal@advocatemag.com. Not everything she receives can be published in the magazine, but check out our Back Talk East Dallas blog daily for more information about ways to live local in our neighborhood.

ALLER GY / ASTHM A / I MMUN OLO GY

Dalia G. Galicia, MD

www.texasallergyonline.com

If you are one of the 50 million Americans affected by allergies, stop suffering! We specialize in the treatment of nasal allergies, asthma, eye allergy, sinus disease and allergic skin disorders. Early, late and Saturday appointments available. We accept most insurance plans, and complete testing and evaluation only takes about 2 hours.

NORTH TEXAS ALLERGY AND ASTHMA ASSOCIATES

8220 WALNUT HILL LN., SUITE 101, DALLAS, TX 75206 214-369-1901

OP TO M ETRIST

4708 ALLIANCE BLVD. , SUITE 610, PLANO, TX 75093 972-596-4383

Dr. Clint Meyer www.dallaseyeworks.com

Act Now. Don’t lose the money from your health savings account or defined benefit plan. New glasses, sunglasses, or contact lenses are a perfect way to start the new year. Great new styles have just come in. From value frames to the top designer lines, you are sure to find something that will help you look and see your best.

DALLAS EYEWORKS

9225 GARLAND ROAD SUITE 2120, DALLAS, TX 75218 214.660.9830

COMPRE HEN SIVE DEN TISTRY

Ashly R. Cothern, DDS, PA

Dr Cothern is one of a small distinguished percentage of dentists who have invested in postgraduate training at one of the world’s premiere continuing education institutes, The Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education. We care about you as a unique individual and examine you in a way that together we can understand every aspect of your oral health. In our office we love what we do. NOW THAT IS SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT!

9669 N.CENTRAL EXPRESSWAY #220 DALLAS 75231 214.696.9966

IN TER N AL M EDI CI NE

Rachael Dunnagan, M.D.

Dr. Dunnagan and the other physicians at The WadeHuebner Clinic believe in providing advanced medical care while adhering to traditional doctor-patient values. In addition to treating most acute and chronic adult illnesses, its board certified physicians perform wellness and preventative examinations. They are on staff at Texas Health Presbyterian Dallas and will attend to their patients if hospitalization is needed. The physicians at Wade-Huebner are on most insurance plans and are accepting new patients.

ORT H ODO N TICS

Patricia A. Simon, DDS

www.lakewoodortho.net

Sonria, Lachen, Sourire…“Smile”. No matter what language you speak, a smile imparts confidence and opens doors to opportunity. It conveys your nature, and speaks volumes about who you are. Does your smile say what you want it to about you? If not, it can be changed! Schedule a complimentary consultation today to see what is possible. Change your look and your outlook!

LAKEWOOD ORTHODONTICS

1809 SKILLMAN ST., DALLAS, TX 75206 214-826-9000

C OS M ETIC A ND FAM ILY DEN TISTRY

Dena T. Robinson, DDS, FAGD

Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry

“It’s not just about the teeth, but the whole person. Seeing someone’s oral health improve means their total health has improved as well. The focus at our White Rock Lake cosmetic dentistry practice is on comprehensive dental care.” Let us help you make a difference in your life!

WWW.DRDENAROBINSON.COM 8940 GARLAND RD., SUITE 200, DALLAS, TX 75218 214.321.6441

LAKEWOOD RESIDENT NATHAN

T. ANDERSON was named partner in the practice formerly known as The May Firm. The firm, which was founded by Michelle May O’Neil, has changed its name to O’Neil Anderson. Anderson graduated cum laude from SMU Dedman School of Law in 2007. Prior to joining this firm, which specializes in family law and appeals, he worked in the litigation department for a national firm in Houston.

THEWESTLAKEREPUBLICAN WOMEN’S ANNUALLUNCHEON is Dec. 12 at 11:30 a.m. Attendees will have an opportunity to meet the Dallas County Republican primary candidates. For information and directions, contact Susie Lowry at 214.638.7000 or westlakerw@yahoo.com.

WOODROW WILSON HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR JUSTIN

ALEXANDER BAILEY obtained the Eagle Scout rank in Boy Scouts of America. He installed irrigation systems for the flowerbeds at transitional housing residences of the Interfaith Housing Coalition. Bailey is a National Honor Society member who has participated in his high school musical production all four years and plays football.

THEGREATER EAST DALLAS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE recently hosted its Teacher of the Year awards luncheon to recognize teachers who are providing outstanding education for their respective students in the East Dallas area. The chamber gave awards to one public and one private school teacher at the elementary, middle and high school levels. Winners at the elementary level were Israel Rivera, Mount Auburn Elementary School and Heather Hopper, Lakehill Preparatory School; at the middle school level were Joseph Selvog, W.H. Gaston Middle School and Linda Booth, Lakehill Preparatory School; and at the high school level were Mike Moran, Woodrow Wilson High School, and David Stepp, Bishop Lynch High School.

Please submit news items and/or photos concerning neighborhood residents, activities, honors and volunteer opportunities to editor@advocatemag. com or online at advocate.com/submit_ed_news. Our deadline is the first of the month prior to the month of publication.

a e o e o er a or a le u o hrou h h ra e reless sla e e h olo e ra urr u lar a v es a a er s hool are lease all o s he ule a our s er ar o la rvau or st o s ep s opal s ool

848 r 7 218 214 328 9131 s oh ss hool or ou e oh s s a e e e o e u a o al a s hool or re hrou h ra e h a ra o or a a em e elle e oh s ro rams lu e a halle urr ulum a hr s a e v ro me alo h s ru o he v sual a er orm ar s a sh erma re h a o or u es or a hle s a ommu serv e oh s oal or s s u e s s o evelo a love or lear serv e o o hers a lea ersh rou e love hum l a s om re e a he e as u a o e te ro ort s ool

9727 r t 214 348 741 ears hrou h h ra e ears o su ess ul s u e s ur a elera e urr ulum rov es o or u or elle ual a h s al evel o me a lov a ur ur e v ro me hara er u l a v res o s l are s resse a l es lu e oor s mm ool s a r u a e la rou a s a e o he ar e h olo la s lu o he or er ro v es mea ul a er s hool e er e es ummer am o ers el r s s mm a a ala e o oor a ou oor a v es es e arou u lle hemes re e all or a our o he am us h e o or h hool om

Z o l t era s ool

6121 e l l 214 363 163 o ler are hru h ra e erv allas or over ears o er a ual e u a o a hr s e ere lear e v ro me e ree e u a ors m s er o he a a em h s al emo o al so al a s r ual ee s o s u e s a he r am l es e ore a a er s hool ro rams e e are are s a u a hle s e ar s e ra e e h olo a sh ou oor e u a o elera e ea er a va e ma h la eme a s u e over me re e a o al u hera hool e as s r re a o omm ss o s a o a r al e horma

BAPT IS T

GASTON OAKS BAPTIST / Greenville Ave & Royal Lane

Sunday Worship 10:45 am / Bible Study 9:30 am www.gastonoaks.org / 214.348.0958

WILSHIRE BAPTIST / 4316 Abrams / 214.452.3100

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

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

CH URCH OF CHRIS T

SKILLMAN CHURCH OF CHRIST / 3014 Skillman St.

Sunday School 9:30 am / Sunday Worship 10:30 am

Grace Café & Bible Study Wed. 6:00 pm / 214.823.2179

DIS C IPLE S OF CHRIS T

EAST DALLAS CHRISTIAN CHURCH / 629 N. Peak Street

Sunday School 9:30 am / Worship 8:30 & 10:50 am 214.824.8185 / Rev. Deborah Morgan / www.edcc.org

EPIS C OPAL

CHURCH OF THE INCARNATION / 3966 McKinney Ave / 214.521.5101

Sunday: Traditional 7:30, 9:00, 11:15 am and 5:00 pm

Contemporary 9:00, 11:15 am and 6:00 pm / incarnation.org

ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH / 848 Harter Road, 75218

Sunday Worship: 8:00 & 10:30 am / Christian Ed. 9:00 am

214.321.6451 / www.stjohnsepiscopal.org

IN TE R- DE NOMIN AT ION AL

GRACEHILL COMMUNITY / www.gracehill.cc

10:30 am @ Dallas Children’s Theater / Skillman & NW Hwy.

Awesome Kid’s Ministry / Use Entrance Facing Home Depot

L UT HERAN

FIRST UNITED LUTHERAN CHURCH / 6202 E Mockingbird Ln.

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

ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH & SCHOOL / 6121 E Lovers Ln.

Sunday: Sunday School 9:15 am, Worship 8:00 am, 10:30 am, & 6:00 pm / 214.363.1639 / www.ziondallas.org

M ET HODIS T

LAKE HIGHLANDS UMC / 9015 Plano Rd. (at McCree) 214.348.6600 / www.lhumc.com / Sun. School 9:45 am

Sun. Worship 8:30 & 11:00 Traditional / 11:00 Contemporary

WHITE ROCK UNITED METHODIST / wrumc.org

1450 Oldgate Lane / 214.324.3661

Sunday Worship 10:50 am / Rev. George Fisk

NON- DE NOMIN AT ION AL

WHITE ROCK COMMUNITY CHURCH / 9353 Garland Road

Sun. Bible Study 9:00 am, Worship 10:45 am / 214.320.0043

Wed. Bible Studies 10:00 am & 7:30 pm / www.whiterockchurch.org

PRE SBYTERI AN

NEW ST. PETER’S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH / 214.438.0120

Meet at Dallas Children’s Theater – Skillman at NW Hwy

Worship: 9:30 am / www.newstpeters.org

NORTHPARK PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH / 214.363.5457

9555 N. Central Expy. / www.northparkpres.org

New Pastor: Rev. Brent Barry / 8:30 & 11:00 am Sunday Services

ST. ANDREW’S PRESBYTERIAN / Skillman & Monticello

Rev. Rob Leischner. www.standrewsdallas.org

214.821.9989 Sunday School 9:30 am, Worship 10:45 am

RELIGIO US SC IENCE

GLOBAL HE ART DALLAS / 11020 Audelia Road, Suite B107

Sunday: Meditation 10:20 am / Service 11:00 am 214.361.2096 / www.globalheart-dallas.org

UNI TY

UNITY CHURCH OF CHRISTIANITY / www.dallasunity.org

11:00 am Sun. Worship & Sunday School; 9:30 am adult class.

3425 Greenville Ave. @ McCommas Blvd. 214.826.5683

GOD AS NOVELIST

MAYBE THE AUTHOR WAITS TO SEE HOW THE STORY PLAYS OUT

“The hinge of history turns on a heartbeat.”

Roger Cohen of The New York Times turned that phrase to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall in the fall of 1989.

Many forces conspired to bring down the wall: decades of repression in East Germany under Communist rule; China’s Tiananmen Square uprising earlier in the year that had been put down by force; Soviet Premier Gorbachev’s decision not to follow China’s example in squelching the spirit of freedom; and the decision by the government to allow unhindered travel by citizens to the West.

But it was Harald Jaeger, the border guard at the Bornholmer Strasse checkpoint, who, in the midst of confusion and thousands of East Germans pressing the border, decided on opening the gate instead of opening fire.

The year 2009 marks the anniversaries of two other seminal figures of history whose ideas have influenced the way we think about history: Charles Darwin and John Calvin. Their views on how the world operates, especially as interpreted by their successors, could hardly be at greater odds.

For 100 years now, Darwinism has seen nature and history progressing by laws or rules that are discerned by a survival instinct built into the fabric of reality. Al l life forms adapt in order to survive, and make choices to advance the greater likelihood of continued existence. Those species that make felicitous choices survive, and those that don’t, don’t. Extended to human life, history is the product of human choices for the same purpose. When we act wisely in pursuit of enduring life, we survive; when we don’t, our line or clan or nation disappears. No need for God in this equation.

Calvinism looks at things from the top down, so to speak, rather the b ottom-up approach of the newer scientific Darwinism. Five hundred years ago Calvin asserted that history is the outcome of decisions God had made from before time began. God’s sovereignty over God’s creation means God’s careful management of the choices humans make

in order to fulfill the orders of their Maker. When the faithful are overheard declaring that things, good or bad, are simply the will of God we must accept, they are echoing Calvin’s hunch that history turns on divine not human decisions. Little need for humans in this equation.

Are these the only alternatives?

Christmas comes this month for Christians. Darwinism cannot imagine a God who enters into history and human nature to take part in it and influence its direction. Such a thing would violate the freedom of creation. Calvinism has trouble seeing the child in the manger as fully human being. It imagines him even in the stable concealing his true identity as if he were an actor in a play and not a real player on the human stage.

A better analogy may come inadvertently from the novelist Laura Kasischke. She was asked whether she knows ahead of time what’s going to happen in a book, or is it more of an organic process. “At a certain point,” Kasischke says, “I have a sense of an ending, but I’m generally as surprised as anyone else by what happens to my characters and what they do or say.”

What if Christmas tips us off to God as novelist? God has purposed that creation will end well, and has committed to working on it from the inside out, allowing the characters to surprise the Author without ultimately thwarting the story. Jesus as Son of God could have failed like the rest of us to give himself fully to loving the world to death, literally. His success turned on his faithfulness and God’s at the same time — the two conspiring to the same end on behalf of us all.

Christians believe that the hinge of history did indeed turn on a heartbeat; or better, two hearts — one divine and one human — beating at last as one.

George Mason is pastor of Wilshire Baptist Church. The Worship section is a regular feature underwritten by Advocate Publishing and by the neighborhood business people and churches listed on these pages. For information about helping support the Worship section, call 214.560.4202.

WITCHESOFEASTDALLAS

Hollywood Santa Monica neighbor BethAnnNorrgard , a.k.a. Glenda the Good Witch, and her visiting sister, Jan Blum , Wicked Witch of the West, make trick o’ treat-ers feel good and scared.

PARTYIN’ PARENTS

TO ADVERTISE CALL 214.560.4203

TUTORING & LESSONS

A+ PIANO TEACHER WADE COTTINGHAM Super Refs. LWood Res. wadewademusic.com 214-564-6456

ART: Classes. Easy Techniques. LH NO Rec. Cntr.Jane Cross, SMU Adult Ed. Since 80’s. 214-534-6829,Linda 214-808-4919

ARTISTIC GATHERINGS

Art Classes For All Ages. Casa Linda Plaza. 214-821-8383. www. artisticgatherings.com

DRUM & PIANO LESSONS All Ages/All Styles. Your location. UNT Grads. Betty & Bill 972-203-1573

GUITAR, PIANO, YOUR HOME Fun/Easy. 9-Adult. UNT Music Degree. Larry 469-358-8784

K-2 TUTORING Former 1st grade teacher will help your child build reading, writing and math skills. Amy 214-675-1892

LAKE HIGHLANDS Boxing/KickBoxing/Mixed Martial Arts, Bootcamp/Personal Training 214-240-5988 www.DallasJiuJitsu.com

LEARN PIANO In Beautiful Lakewood Studio. Group & Private Lessons. 214-792-9469. www.ConnieKean.com MM, MTNA

MATH TUTOR Certified. 5th-12th Grades. 10 Years Experience. Kenny. 214-535-6707. kennygoldman@sbcglobal.net

TAKS READING/MATH & SPANISH TUTOR Certified Bilingual Teacher. Proven Success. 214-681-8518

VOICE TEACHER with 37 years experience. MM, NATS, MTNA www.PatriciaIvey.com 214-324-5625

Whereevery child is special!

Accredited private school with small classes, certified experienced teachers and outstanding academic curriculum. Indoor pool, gym, computer lab and large outdoor playground.

Call White Rock North School to schedule a tour 214-348-7410

CHILDCARE

LOVING, CHRIST-CENTERED CARE SINCE 1982

Lake Highlands Christian Child Enrichment Center Ages 2 mo.-12 yrs. 9919 McCree. 214-348-1123.

CHILDCARE

BULLETIN BOARD B

SERVICES FOR YOU

NEED A VACATION? Great Customer Service For Cruises, Family vacations, Honeymoons & More. Worldwide Cruises And Tours mariannewoody.wwtravel@yahoo.com 214-929-2069

YOUR COMPUTER GEEK Let me Solve Your Computer Problems. 25 Yrs. Exp. Hardware/Software Issues/Install. Network Setup, Home & Small Business. $50 per Hr. Mike. 214-552-1323. mikecomputergeek@gmail.com

EMPLOYMENT

ALL CASH VENDING Do you earn $800/day? Local Vending Routes. 25 machines+candy. $9,995 800-807-6485

MYSTERY SHOPPERS! Earn up to $150 daily. Get paid to shop pt/ft. 800-690-1272

SALES & MARKETING PROFESSIONAL needed for growing promotional marketing business. Applicant must be a self starter and have sales or sales related experience. Job is commission only and work hours are flexible for the right candidate. Located in Lakewood. Email resumes to resumes@gizmogroup.com

AD SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Advocate Magazines is hiring! FullTime Magazine Sales Rep — experience in print sales is required. Please email your resume to kgaconnier@advocatemag.com subject line: Resume

SERVICES FOR YOU

AT ODDS WITH YOUR COMPUTER? Easily Learn Essential Skills.Services Include Digital Photo Help.Sharon 214-679-9688 CONFUSED? FRUSTRATED? Let A Seasoned Pro Be The Interface Between You & That Pesky Computer. Hardware & Software Installation, Troubleshooting, Training. $60/hr. 1 hr min. Dan 214-660-3733 or stykidan@sbcglobal.net

GIFT BASKETS For Most Occasions, Wine Baskets, Wedding Favors, And Baby Diaper Cakes. http://uniquegiftbaskets4u.com or 214-893-0268

Pearl...A“Precious”find in Quality Dry cleaning! Now Offering FREE Dry Cleaning Pick-Up & Delivery in YourArea! p y

RENT-A-DAUGHTER Expanding Elder choicesTM We help families with choices and plans for aging. For adult children, elders or anyone who hopes to become one. 469-774-3291 www.TheNewElder.com

ORGANIZING

A DESIGNERS TOUCH FOR ORGANIZATION Declutter & Organize. Sue Benson 214-349-9064 ORGANIZE & REJUVENATE Home Offices, Living SpacesFeng Shui. Linda 972-816-8004

JulieDolan Whitmire, Fred Secker , and Shirley and RamonRodriguez , parents of former and present Woodrow Wilson High School students, gather for a Halloween shindig.

LITERARY LADIE S

Neighbors Helen Nixon and Betty Brownlee attended the Women’s Council of the Dallas Arboretum event, A Writer’s Garden, featuring a book review and lunch in Rosine Hall at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.

MEANINGFUL MEDAL S

Neighbors S erena L ambiase and V ishal Patel recently finished the Dallas Running Club Half Marathon, a feat that earned them some heavy medal.

HEALTH RESOURCEBULLETIN BOARD

ORGANIZING

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

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

BOOKKEEPING NEEDS? Need Help Organizing Finances?

No Job Too Small or Big.

Call C.A.S Accounting Solutions. Cindy 214-821-6903

IN HOME CRISIS COUNSELING Spiritual Restoration For Behavioral Change. www.rubiconcounseling.net. 469-441-8861

JOB HUNTING? Resume Need Updating or Sprucing up? Pam. 972-233-9680. www.reasonableresumes@gmail.com

MEL MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY Portrait, Children, Family, Wedding, On Site. melmariephotography.com 469-569-7247

Website Design

Flash Demos

Graphic Design

RibbitMultimedia .com 214.560.4207

MIND, BODY & SPIRIT

FOR WOMEN ONLY In Home Fitness Training. Cooper Certified Personal Trainer. 214-802-8932

HEALTHY WEIGHT LOSS Motivational, Compassionate & Confidential Sessions Offered To Those Wanting To Lose Weight & Gain A Healthier Lifestyle. Dr. Nicole Mangum, Health Psychologist. 214-692-6666 ext. 311

LOA FITNESS FOR WOMEN Mockingbird/Abrams. Lady Of America.com. 214-827-LADY

WWW.TRAINWITHJEAN.COM Train On Line Using Your Web Camera. $15 Per Session. 214-886-1459

PETS

BIRDDOGCATFISH Caring For Pets In Their Own Home With Familiar Sights, Smells & Routines. Dog Walks, Vet Trips, Overnights. Beth. 469-235-3374

JONATHANS FRIENDS Complete Pet Services. Your House Or Mine. 17 Yrs Experience. CPR Trained. 214-660-8993

PARK CITIES PET SITTER, INC.

Voted “Best in Dallas” D Magazine

Serving The Greater DFW Area Since 1992

“We Take Care Of The Family You Leave Behind.” Bonded and Insured. 214-828-0192 www.pcpsi.com

POOP SCOOP PROFESSIONALS Trust The Experts. 214-826-5009

All pet services available. Dog Walks and Home Visits. Reasonable rates. References. 214-732-4721 www.taddyspetservices.com

BUY/SELL/TRADE

SELL/RENT YOUR TIMESHARE NOW Maintenance fees too high? Need Cash? Sell your unused timeshare today. No commissions or broker fees. Free consultation.

www.sellatimeshare.com, 1-888-310-0115

Dallas’ First Doggie Daycare

Featuring “Open Play” Boarding

8,000+ sq. ft. Play Area Inside

5,000+ sq. ft. Play Area Outside

5 Lux Suites w/ Webcams

Grooming All Breeds

TEXAS RANGERS SUITE Share this prime suite with other neighborhood small businesses. We lease Suite 218-B behind home plate (check out the location online at texasrangers.com) overlooking the entire field. We’re looking for partners to buy 10game shares in for the 2010 & 2011 seasons. The suite includes three parking passes, 12 tickets for each game and a $300 credit per game (first year only) for food and beverage service in the suite. Games will be allocated in a lottery process prior to each season, with each shareholder selecting games and receiving an equal chance for Yankees, Red Sox, weekend and other premium games. Email rwamre@advocatemag.com or call 214-686-3595 with questions.

ESTATE/GARAGE SALES

ESTATE LIQUIDATIONS 20+Yrs. Experience. K. Landrum, 214-601-0077 karenbelin@aol.com

ESTATE SALES & LIQUIDATION SERVICES Moving, Retirement, Downsizing. One Piece Or A Houseful. David Turner. 214-908-7688. dave2estates@aol.com

REAL ESTATE

AMERINET MORTGAGE There Is No Better Time Than Ever

To Buy A Home Or Refinance. Call Monica Williams Today For A Complimentary Consultation. 469-231-6830

BUYERS MARKET Looking To Sell/Buy. Credit Discounts Available. Call Tommy. 972-533-2872 SEARCH BY ZIP CODE TO FIND SERVICES &

APPLIANCE REPAIR SPECIALIST. Repair, Sales. 214-321-4228

ABATIS CARPENTRY

Specializing in Small Remodels & Repairs. Baths, Kitchens, Doors, Cabinets, Etc. Plenty of Refs. Paul, 214-893-3648

BO HANDYMAN kitchens, baths, doors, cabinets, custom carpentry, drywall & painting 214-437-9730

FENN CONSTRUCTION CO Complete Remodels. www.dallastileman.com 214-343-4645

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

HANDY DAN “The Handyman” To Do’s Done Right! www.handy-dan.com 214-252-1628

PREVIEW CONSTRUCTION INC.

HardiPlank 50 Yr. Cement Siding, Energy Star Windows. Kitchens-Baths-Additions & More. 214-348-3836. See Photo Gallery at: www.previewconstruction.com

REMODEL FOR LESS 972-822-7501 www.CuttingEdgeRenovationsLLC.com

SOUTHERN CROSS CONSTRUCTION

Residential & Light Commercial Renovation. Kitchens, Baths, Studios & Additions. Call Ben at 469-360-8886

SQUARE NAIL WOODWORKING

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

TK COMPLETE REMODELINIG Carpentry, Doors, Drywall, Paint. 972-533-2872

• Interior & Exterior

• RenovationsKitchen & Bath

• Sheetro

HOME SERVICES

lea ser es

PERSONAL ERRANDS Make ready clean & more www.e-Honeydos.com 469-337-7024 Frances

THE MAIDS 4 Person Teams. Bonded & Insured. www.maids.com Free Estimates. 800-843-6243

WANTED Houses To Clean & Windows to Wash

20 Years Exp. Reliable, Efficient, Excellent Refs., Sunni 214-724-2555

WINDOW MAN WINDOW CLEANING.COM

Residential Specialists. BBB. 214-718-3134

ele tr al ser es

FRITZ ELECTRIC Lic. Electrician TECL 24978 30 yrs exp. 214-629-0391

HANDY DAN “The Handyman” To Do’s Done Right. handy-dan.com Fans, etc 214-252-1628

LAKEWOOD ELECTRICAL Licensed. Insured. Lic#112457 Call Rylan 214-434-8735

LICENSED ELECTRICIAN Res/Commercial

20 yrs exp. Free est. 972-489-1597 Brian

MASTER ELECTRICIAN Lic #TECL 55703. Resd/Comcl. Bonded. Contr Lic# TECL23423. Trinity Electrical Services. David 214-802-0436

TEXASELECTRICAL•214-289-0639

Schedule your service call late evenings/weekends with no overtime charges. TECL 24668

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

oMp ters ele tro s

A+ CERTIFIED COMPUTER SERVICE

Business/Home. Repair, Data & Networks

Call a PC Pro: Rusty 214-912-0885

BILL’S COMPUTER REPAIR

Troubleshooting & problem solving.

Hardware & software upgrade. Home network installation. Virus removal, data recovery. PC instruction, no trip fee. 214-348-2566

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

LONE STAR DECKS Decks, Arbors, Fences, Patio Covers, TREX Decking & Fencing. www.lonestardecks.com 214-357-3975

STEEL SALVATION Metal Specialist. Welding Repairs, Design, Metal Art, Unique Crosses. Local Resident Over 40 Yrs. 214-283-4673

EST. 1991 #1

COWBOY

FENCE & IRON CO.

214.692.1991

SPECIALIZING IN Wood Fences &Auto Gates

cowboyfenceandiron.com

Willeford

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

EDMOND’S PAVING Asphalt & Concrete

•Driveways•Sidewalks•Patios•Repairs 214-957-3216•www.edmondspaving.com

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

• Swimming Pool Remodel

• Stone work

• Stamp Concrete

• Patios 972-727-2727 Deckoart.com

tr al ser es

AMPLE AMPS for home/business. TECL19031

MHK Electrical Contractors, Inc. 214-675-1375

ANTHONY’S ELECTRIC Family Owned/Operated. Insd.19 Yrs Exp.TECL24948 214-328-1333

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS Full Service. Install & Removal. Rylan 214-434-8735

EXPERIENCED LICENSED ELECTRICIAN All Jobs. Free Est. Insd. Steve. TECL24978. Fritz Electric. 214-718-9648

FIRST FENCE

CONSUMERS CHOICE AWARDS

972-926-7007 www.ArrowElectric.net

Allen. 214-244-6523

#1COWBOYFENCE&IRONCO. Est. ‘91. 214-692-1991 www.cowboyfenceandiron.com

4QUALITYFENCING

Specializing in Wood, New or Repair. Free Estimates. Call Mike 214-507-9322.

AFATHER,SON&GRANDSONTEAM

Wood Fences, Automatic Gates & Decks Call Haven Edwards 214-327-0560

ABSOLUTE TEXAS FENCE

New/Repair Wood Fences. 214-732-0139

AMBASSADOR FENCE INC.

Automatic Gates, All Fences. Decks. Since 1996. MC/V 214-621-3217

KIRKWOODFENCE&DECK

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

LAKEHIGHLANDSFENCE&DECKS

Free Est. Unbeatable Price. 214-674-3858.

LAKEWOODFENCING214-244-1329

Newwoodfencingandrepairs•Freeestimates

Privacy Fencing Gates Decks •

Call us First! 214.675.0193

repla

CHIMNEY SWEEP Dampers/Brick & Stone Repair. DFW Metro. Don 214-704-1722

loor arpet

BOULE HARDWOOD FLOORS

Installation, Refinishing, Handscrape, Dust Containment System. BBB Accredited Business. (Visa/MC) 214-908-6251

DALLASHARDWOODS214-724-0936

Installation, Repair, Refinish, Wax, Hand Scrape. Residential, Commercial. Sports Floors. 25 Yrs.

STAINED CONCRETE FLOORS

New/Remodel. Staining & Waxing. Int/Ext. Nick Hastings. 214-341-5993

WHITE

• Slabs • Pier & Beam

ara e oors

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

UNITED GARAGE DOOR All Types Of Garage Doors & Openers. Repair or Replace. Commercial. 214-826-8096

lass o s oors

AFATHER,SON&GRANDSONTEAM

Expert Window Cleaning. Storm windows our specialty. Haven Edwards 214-327-0560

EAST DALLAS WINDOW CLEANING Free Estimates. Dependable. Derek. 214-827-7661

GREENWINDOWCOMPANY214-295-5405

Specialty In Replacement Windows/Doors

JPON GLASS CO Windows, shower doors, mirrors. JponGlass.com 214-349-1400

LAKEHIGHLANDSGLASS&MIRROR custommirrors•showerenclosures

storefronts•casements214-349-8160

OAKCLIFFMIRROR&GLASS custom showers, doors, glass, mirrors. 214-747-3717

ROCK GLASS CO Replace, repair: windows, mirrors, showers, screens. 972-907-0944

STAINEDGLASS214-283-4673

Repairs, Restoration, Or Custom Design

TK REMODELING Window Cleaning, Power Washing, Gutters. 972-533-2872

WINDOWSASH&SILLREPAIR

Molding and Cabinets. Pete 214-923-5097

TO ADVERTISE CALL 214.560.4203

• JAN. DEADLINE DEC. 9

Green Homes

House PaintinG

#1 GET MORE PAY LES

85% Referrals/Estimates 214-348-5070

A TEXTURE & FINISH SPECIALIST

Since 1977. Int/Ext. Kirk’s Works 972-672-4681

A TONY’S PAINTING SERVICE Interior & Exterior 972-234-0770 mobile 214-755-2700

Simple Solutions for Energy Efficient Homes

��Remodeling

��Energy Efficient Design

��New Construction

214�701�8458

TexasGreenConstruction.com

Handyman services

1 HANDYMAN MC CANN carpentry, electrical, plumbing, paint & all in between. 214-723-2200

A NEIGHBORHOOD HANDYMAN Electrical, Plumbing, & Carpentry Call Tim. 214-824-4620, 214-597-4501

AA HANDYMAN No job too big. No job too small. 38 years exp. Ron Payne 214-755-9147

ALL STAR HOME CARE

Carpentry, Glass, Tile, Paint, Doors, Sheetrock Repair, and more. Derry 214-505-4830

BO HANDYMAN kitchens, baths, doors, cabinets, custom carpentry, drywall & painting 214-437-9730

CARPENTRY, TILE & MORE No job too small. Call Zane 214-553-8077

DO ALL SERVICE Maintenance/Repairs, Honey Do’s, Xmas Lights. William 214-324-1280

HANDY DAN “The Handyman” To Do’s Done Right. www.handy-dan.com 214-252-1628

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

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

KIRKPATRICK Home Service 214-729-8334 Skilled arpentry• hiteRockarea28 ears

KYLE HANDYMAN Taking care of all your home maintenance needs. 469-438-4016

MARK GASKILL All Repairs/Remodels. Int/Ext. Skilled. wWw‘74. 972-333-8884 home/business

NEED HELP? FAST! Repairs/Remodel. Chris, Rick. 214-693-0678 214-381-9549

PEREZ HOME REPAIRS All Jobs, Repairs, Renovations. References. 214-489-0635

WINDOW SASH & SILL REPAIR

Molding and Cabinets. Pete 214-923-5097

House PaintinG

#1 AARON’S Awesome Home Painting Specialist. Interior/Exterior, Texture & Repairs. 214-912-4152

1 AFFORDABLE HOUSE PAINTING and Home Repair. Quality work. Inside and Out. Free Ests. Local Refs. Ron 972-816-5634 or 972-475-3928

ABRAHAM PAINT SERVICE A Women Owned usiness25 rs. nt t. allReprs.Discounts n Whole Interiors and Exteriors 214-682-1541

ALLEN’S PAINTING

Ceramic Tile, Drywall, Custom Textures Est. 1986 214-288-4232

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

FURNITURE REFINISHING /Interior Painting By Lauren. www.laurenlarson.com 214-534-1845

RAMON’S INT/EXT PAINT

Sheetrock, Repairs. 214-679-4513

SAMS PAINTING SERVICE Int/Ext. No Job Too Small. Discounts Avail. 214-228-7987

VIP PAINTING & DRYWALL Int/Ext. Sheetrock Repair, Resurfacing Tubs, Counters, Tile Repairs. 972-613-2585

WHITE ROCK PAINT & REMODEL

References. Mark Reindel 214-321-5280

BRIAN GREAM

PAINTING & RENOVATIONS LLC

• Interior/Exterior • Drywall • Rotten Wood • Gutters

All General Contracting Needs

PayPal ®

214.542.6214

WWW.BGRONTHEWEB.COM BRIANGREAM@YAHOO.COM

i nterior d esi Gn

TIS THE SEASON Holiday Installations, Tablescapes, Design Services, Artful Details, Casual Elegance for a Memorable Holiday. Don Moore Interiors and Event Design For A Free Consultation. dpm0202@mac.com 270-993-0782

whitecustominteriors.com Special Finishes & Custom Woodworking. Tony. 214-392-2505

WINDOWWORKS BY REBECCA

Shop At Home For Custom Window Treatments. 214-215- 2981

Specializing in Custom Blended Colors and Decorative Applications

Amy Christensen 214.693.8556

Kitc H en/Bat H/ t ile/Grout

l awns, Gardens & t rees

25% OFF TREE WORK IN DECEMBER Roberts Tree Svc Insd.10 yrs exp. 214-808-8925

ABETTERTREECOMPANY• USTTREES

Complete tree services including Tree & Landscape Lighting! Call Mark 214-332-3444

A&B LANDSCAPING Full Lawn Care, Landscaping, Tree Trimming, Fireplaces & Stonework. Lic #0283917- Degreed Horticulturist 214-221-4421 - 214-534-3816

ALTON MARTIN LANDSCAPING Spectacular Curbside Appeal! Excellent refs. 214-893-2420

AYALA’S Landscaping & Tree Service Call Land & Tree Expert Today! 214-773-4781

Time to refresh your nest?

Cheryl Stephens Interiors

Complete decorating, redesign and organizing services. Cheryl Stephens, CID 214.351.6676

Kitc H en/Bat H/

FENN CONSTRUCTION Any Tile Anywhere. www.dallastileman.com 214-343-4645

GRANITE COUNTERTOPS ALL COLORS Kitchens/Baths. Robert. ARD. 214-289-1475

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

insulation/ radiant Barrier

AXIOM RADIANT BARRIER Installation of Foil Radiant Barrier. Call Nick 214-450-7450

EFFICIENT INSULATION Radiant Barrier Foil. Energy Efficient Pro. Free quotes. 214-577-0534

interior desiGn

A LADY’S TOUCH WALLPAPERING

Texture, Paint & Repair. 27 yrs. exp. Free Est. Call Martha 972-712-2465; 972-832-3396

CUSTOM ROMAN SHADES Drapes, Pillows, etc. Enhance your home with fabric. all arie214-660-3266•214-629-2077

KIM ARMSTRONG INTERIOR DESIGN www.interiorsbykim.com

Licensed/CID/ASID 214-500-0600

LET ME DECORATE YOUR HOME For Christmas. Home Stylist. Lupe. 214-801-3542

LILLI DESIGN Residential, Commercial.

N D ert.10 rs p.www.lilli-design.com

Katie Reynolds 214-370-8221

STONE AGE Granite, Marble, Tile. Kitchens & Baths. Counter Tops. Jody “The Granite Girl” 469-328-8440

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

BARE ROOT LANDSCAPE SOLUTIONS 214-421-1153. www.barerootsdesigns.com

BARTON SPRINKLER REPAIR & INSTALL 3 r arranty.FreeRain Free e ithNew Installation. Lic 6158. 214-878-8123

BEACHSCAPE Lawn Maintenance & Landscaping. Stonework. Seasonal Color and Perennials. Free Ests. 214-287-3571

BLOUNTS TREE SERVICE Call Me Last! Save 10 n ll ritten ids. rim Removals.43 rs Exp. Insured. Grady. 214-275-5727

BUSSEYS LAWN CARE $30 Weekly. Hedges. Clean ups. 214-725-9678

CASTRO TREE SERVICE Quality Work at Great Rates. Free est. Insured. 214-337-7097

CHUPIK TREE SERVICE

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

COMPLETE LANDSCAPE & DESIGN Drainage, Stone Work, Sprinklers, Design. Free Estimates. 972-898-6197

DALLASK.D.R.SER ICES•214-349-0914

Lawn Service & Landscape Installation

DALLAS TREE SURGEONS Tree Trimming, Removal & Sales. Free Estimates. 972-633-5462 www.dallastreesurgeons.com

GREENSKEEPER Fall Clean Up & Fall Color. Sodding Fertili ation. awn aintenance andscape. Res/Com. 214-546-8846

HOLISTIC TREE CARE

A Full-Service Tree Care Company Chuck Ranson, Certified Arborist c.ranson@sbcglobal.net 214-537-2008

•

HOLMAN IRRIGATION

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

LAKEWOOD TREE SERVICES

Total Tree Care - feeding, trimming, removals Free Estimates. Insured. 214-442-3165

MOW YOUR YARD $27

White Rock Landscaping 214-415-8434

PARADISE LANDSCAPES

www.ParadiseLandscapes.net 214-328-9955

TAYLOR MADE IRRIGATION

Repairs, service, drains. 27 yrs exp. Ll 6295. Backflow Testing Cell-469-853-2326. John

THE POND MAN Water Gardens

Designed & Installed. Drained & Cleaned. Weekly Service. Jim Tillman 214-769-0324

TREE WIZARDS Trim Surgery Removal. 15 Yrs Exp. Insured. Free Est. 214-680-5885

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

WATER-WISE URBAN LANDSCAPES www.TexasXeriscapes.com 469-586-9054

JUSTTREES ABetterTreeCompany

A BETTER EARTH PEST CONTROL

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

DARNALL PEST AND TERMITE, INC. Shirley Darnall, owner. Free Estimates. 214-348-8470 www.darnallpest.com

McDANIELPESTCONTROL

PricesStartat$68+Tax for GeneralTreatment AverageHome,Interior,Exterior &AttachedGarage QuotesforOtherServices

214-328-2847

LakewoodResident

A2Z PLUMBING 214-727-4040

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

# M37740 Insured. All your plumbing needs.

ARRIAGA PLUMBING: Repairs, Remodels, Water Heaters, Stopages. Ins’d. Lic 20754 214-321-0589 214-738-7116

ATCHISON PLUMBING

Running Toilets / Lack of Hot Water Driving You Crazy? Call Bruce!

972-726-9323 Lic. # M-23486

BLOUNTS PLUMBING REPAIR Rebuild or Replace. 43 yrs exp. Insured. 214-275-5727

PRESTON POOL SERVICE Weekly Service. Equip Repairs. 214-552-POOL (7665)

THE POOL LADY Personal/Affordable/Quality Pool Care since 1982. Marsha 214-553-1974

WHITE ROCK POOL CLEANING

Friendly Service & Repairs. 20 yrs experience whiterockpools.com David 214-769-8012

JUSTIN’S PLUMBING SERVICE

For All Your Plumbing Needs. ml#M38121 972-523-1336. www.justinsplumbing.com

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

REPAIRS, Fixtures,General Plumbing. Senior Discounts. Campbell Plumbing. 214-321-5943

SPECK PLUMBING Licensed & Insured

M-36580

Astro Plumbing

20Years in the Plumbing Business

Full Service Plumbing Company

Call Michael 214.566.9737

Lorenzo and Son’s Plumbing Remodels,Additions, NewConstruction, Service & Repairs

NO JOB TOO SMALL 972-804-7348 M38042

PLUMBING SERVICES

MPL36677

214-808-9262

ADAIR POOL & SPA SERVICE

Basic & full service available. Call for details. 469-358-0665.

LEAFCHASERS POOLS

Service & Repairs. Insured. APSP Cert. Local Resident Jonathan. 214-729-3311

MICHAEL’S POOL SERVICE

Maintenance & Repair 214-727-7650

PLAYMORE POOLS CO Design, Construction, Consulting & Renovations. 214-823-0169. www.playmorepools.com

Clean Out, Repair/Replace. Leaf Guard. Free Estimates. Lifetime Warranty

Since 1979. “In God We Trust” 214-339-7499

ROOF LEAKS? LATHAM ROOFING

All Types of Re-Roofing and Repairs. Res.& Com. Since 1973. 214-340-3500

WHITE ROCK ROOFING AND REPAIRS

AllstateHomecraftRoofing

Roofing&Remodel Additions Licensed/Insured Over1,000SatisfiedCustomersintheLakewood, LakeHighlands,PrestonHollow,ParkCitiesAreas

214-824-0767 allstatehomecraft.com

RoofRepairSpecialist

L Full JeffGodsey214-502-7287

Scott Roofing Siding Windows

Residential Commercial (214) 503-7663

www.scottroofing.com

Licensed Insured

PROFESSIONAL ROOFING CONTRACTOR (214) 319-0040

FREE INSPECTION l

ADVOCATE PUBLISHING does not pre-screen, recommend or investigate the advertisements and/or Advertisers published in our magazines. As a result, Advocate Publishing is not responsible for your dealings with any Advertiser. Please ask each Advertiser that you contact to show you the necessary licenses and/or permits required to perform the work you are requesting. Advocate Publishing takes comments and/or complaints about Advertisers seriously, and we do not publish advertisements that we know are inaccurate, misleading and/or do not live up to the standards set by our publications. If you have a legitimate complaint or positive comment about an Advertiser, please contact us at 214-560-4203. Advocate Publishing recommends that you ask for and check references from each Advertiser that you contact, and we recommend that you obtain a written statement of work to be completed, and the price to be charged, prior to approving any work or providing an Advertiser with any deposit for work to be completed.

AN ALERT NEIGHBOR YELLED OUT, AND THE THIEF SCAMPERED AWAY.

A detached garage was the target for this criminal looking for an easy midday score. The crook made off with Bruce Turrill’s air compressor, speed buffer and other electric tools. Unfortunately, he says, the garage had been left unlocked.

“I’ve got a boat in the garage and can’t put the door all the way down,” he says.

The Victim: Bruce Turrill

The Crime: Burglary

Date: Tuesday, Oct. 6

Time: 12:30 p.m.

Location: 1700 block of Macmanus

$1,000 ESTIMATED WORTH OF EQUIPMENT STOLEN FROM AN UNMARKED SWAT VEHICLE

“The police said these guys are professionals, and they do this for a living.

Shame on me. You never think this is going to happen to you, but it does.”

Luckily for Turrill, a neighbor saw the burglar and yelled at him. The man fled, but not before the neighbor jotted down his license plate number. A local pawnshop later contacted police about some suspicious merchandise and Turrill’s property was returned. Police also were able to arrest the burglars.

“I feel very fortunate,” Turrill says. “Your best home protection is to know your neighbor.”

He now keeps the boat somewhere else —and the garage locked at all times.

Dalas Police Lt. Gloria Perez with the Northeast Patrol Division says garage doors should always be closed, unless you are in the garage working.

“Entry into a home is very easy with an open garage,” she says.“I personally always keep the garage door closed, even when I am doing yard work, and I put an extra garage door opener in my pocket.

“If you must keep a boat or other outdoor recreation vehicle at home, try to park it under a light, and if possible with a covering of some sort on the vehicle.”

—SEAN CHAFFIN

2700

BLOCK OF FITZHUGH WHERE THE POLICE CAR WAS PARKED AT THE TIME OF THE BREAK-IN

100

ROUNDS OF AMMUNITION ALONG WITH A RIFLE, A HANDGUN, POLICE UNIFORMS, BODY ARMOR AND A POLICE RADIO WERE AMONG THE STOLEN ITEMS

SOURCE: DALLAS POLICE DEPARTMENT

THE NEIGHBORHOOD MAGI

A CLASSIC HOLIDAY STORY THAT HITS CLO SE TO HOME

Della counted the money again. And a second time. And a third time. The total, sadly, remained the same — eighteen dollars and eighty-seven cents. And the next day would be Christmas.

This was cause for a good cry, so Della had one. When she was done, she looked around the house. It had seemed like such a good deal when she and Jim had bought it — the house on the other side of the lake, as they had laughed about it at the time. Such a step up from their lower Greenville Avenue apartment, with its gas floor heaters and drafty windows and front door that didn’t quite close when it rained too much or too little.

But they had maxed out their credit cards to buy furniture for the house. And the taxes had been more than they had expected. And the mortgage: Oh, the mortgage, with its adjustable rate and its pages and pages of clauses and sub-paragraphs that everyone told them not to worry about because the house was such a good deal, and who had ever heard of a house on the other side of the lake losing value? Which, of course, had happened, and

each month, when Jim made the payment to the bank on the corner of Greenville and Lovers that wasn’t there any more, the sweet, wonderful look that was always on his face disappeared.

And even with all of that, things might have been OK. But Della lost her job when her company had closed in the spring, and Jim’s salary had been cut twice as his company struggled to stay in business. Which meant that eighteen dollars and eighty-seven cents was going to have to suffice for a present for Jim. And then she remembered the swe et, w onderful look that disappeared every time he paid the mortgage, and she knew that eighteen dollars and eighty-seven cents was not enough.

Now, Della and Jim had two possessions that they took great pride in. One was Jim’s gold watch that had been his father’s, grandfather’s, and his grandfather’s father’s. The other was Della’s silverware, passed down to her from her grandmother’s mother. In fact, they were more than possessions; they were something that connected them to their families when time and death had severed almost every other connection.

And then, if Jim had been in the room, he would have seen a sparkle on Della’s face that not been there in a while. She went to the closet, pulled out the box and took out the silverware. She had seen the ads on TV — “We buy gold and jewelry” —

so often that she had almost forgotten about them. Della would sell the silverware to the company with the TV ads, and though it was missing a couple of spoons, it would more than pay for Jim’s present. And she knew exactly what that would be: a platinum fob chain for the watch. She had seen it in a window at NorthPark, and he had wanted it as long as she had known him.

By early afternoon, the deed was done. The only catch was that Della would not be able to use the silverware for what had become an annual tradition — Christmas Eve dinner where they exchanged presents. No matter. The everyday stuff would do.

Jim got home at the appointed time and saw the table set w ith the everyday silverware. “The silverware, Della, what happened to the silverware?” he asked. She told him the story.

Jim sighed, took a package out of his pocket. “If you’ll unwrap this,” he said, “you may see why you had me going a while at first.”

Della opened the package. In it were the two missing spoons. She started crying. Jim hugged her.

“Open your present, at least,” she said. He did, smiled again. “Della,” he said, “let’s put our Christmas presents away for a while. They’re too nice to use just at moment. I sold the watch to get the money to buy your spoons.”

And then he hugged her and she hugged him back — which may have been the best gift of all.