health RESOURCES

Optometrist

DR. CLINT MEYER www.dallaseyeworks.com

The technology to provide a thorough examination, the caring to take the time to explain the results, the experience to develop a comprehensive plan for your vision and eye care needs. Dr. Meyer and the staff at Dallas Eyeworks believe it’s important to listen to each patient to achieve best results. Call and schedule an appointment to discover how pleasant and educational an eye examination can be.

Dallas Eyeworks 9225 Garland Rd., Ste. 2120, Dallas, TX 75218 214.660.9830

Comprehensive Dentistry

ASHLY R. COTHERN, DDS, PA www.drcothern.com

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 Expwy., Ste. 220 Dallas, TX 75231 214.696.9966

Orthodontics

PATRICIA A. SIMON, DDS www.lakewoodortho.net

Have you found that your teeth are getting harder to keep clean? It may be due to an increase in the crowding of your teeth, making it more difficult to get between all the nooks and crannies. It’s the natural phenomenon of aging. The good news is that adult orthodontics can put these teeth in their place and give you a cleaner, healthier smile.

Lakewood Orthodontics

1809 Skillman St. Dallas, TX 75206

214.826.9000

Cosmetic And Family Dentistry

DENA T. ROBINSON, DDS, FAGD www.drdenarobinson.com

Four Steps to a Terrific Dental Experience

1. Call and ask us about sedation dentistry options

2. Come to your appointment in our comfortable office setting

3. Take a nap

4. Awake to a beautiful, healthy smile

Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry

8940 Garland Rd., Ste. 200, Dallas, TX 75218 214.321.6441

“I tell you, all these wonderful people I meet where I work, the majority of them are my neighbors, and I just love ’em all to pieces. I look forward to them coming in. When they come in to say ‘hi,’ I want to say ‘hi’ back in such a way that it lightens up their life a little bit and brightens up the rest of their day.”

After all, she has had her days in the Nashville limelight, where she lived and traveled as a country music singer, imitating Loretta Lynn and Patsy Cline. She left that life when she met and married a “super guy.” The lifestyle was exciting, she says, but “my husband was more exciting.”

She still sings at church, but life as a songstress is history.

“Them days are long gone, but remembered fondly.”

Somewhere in the range of 70 years old now, the neighborhood resident has worked at Safeway at Mockingbird and Skillman, ME Moses at Abrams and Mockingbird, and Drug Emporium in the same center. Each of those places closed, leaving Parker to wonder if she might be “a jinx,” she says.

But it wasn’t long before she heard about the new CVS opening; she was, of course, a shoo-in.

Says Danny Maywald, who hired her, “I knew that if I could find someone that had the job skills that Betty brought, who would get along with the customers and call them by name and have that one-on-one relationship with them well, that’s what I was looking for.”

Though the stores have changed, she says, many of the customers have been a constant.

For her chronically cheery disposition, Parker credits “The Man Upstairs,” as well as her current managers and customers.

CVS managers Moses Beruman and Jason Hunt are super guys, she says.

“When I am working with Moses, I know it is going to be a good day,” she says.

And as for Hunt, she says she couldn’t ask for a better leader.

“Some bosses are pushy; not my boss! He is just so wonderful I can’t even explain it.”

And though her stations have changed, many of the customers remain in her life. She says her relationships with people she met at work helped her get through tough times over the years, including the death of her husband.

“The people are still just the beautiful, wonderful people they’ve always been,” Parker says.

Tracy Hamblen lives in an apartment building on Live Oak recently purchased by the nonprofit LifeNet.

If not for his little room, 51-year-old Hamblen would be lost.

“I just cannot tell you what this place means to me,” he says. “I would be on the street and lucky to have a box.”

He tells us about the building’s history. It was constructed in 1913 as a destination honeymoon hotel. In the ’90s, it was a den of prostitution and drug use. But now it houses 63 men and women who needed a hand up in life.

LifeNet bought this old building last spring with plans to renovate it. It is applying for about $2.5 million in tax credits and aims to raise another $500,000 to replace the heating and air conditioning system, among other updates.

LifeNet is the city’s largest provider of permanent supportive housing, that is, multifamily housing for formerly homeless people. It also provides medical help and counseling, through its Lake Highlands clinic, for those with mental illness and addiction. It supplies food through a partnership with the North Texas Food Bank. And it helps people find jobs.

Anyone who isn’t familiar with LifeNet might be surprised to learn that it started 35 years ago as “Hideaway House.”

“That’s indicative of how times have changed,” says president and CEO Liam Mul- vaney. “At the time, the thinking was that people with mental illness should be ‘hidden away.’ ”

The state had cut funding to mental hospitals, including the one in Terrell, which went from 2,000 beds to 300. Low-income mental health patients needed help, and they were no longer receiving it from the state. So LifeNet began.

The nonprofit’s name later changed to Phoenix House, and then in the late ’90s, to its current name. Most of its funding comes from federal grants, but about 5 percent of its $8 million annual budget comes from private donations.

LifeNet does not operate homeless shelters, but it does manage several properties in the neighborhood and around the city, housing 520 formerly homeless people. Professionals manage the properties and assist residents with everyday things such as understanding a bus schedule, as well as more complicated things like dealing with mental illnesses and addictions. The goal for many is to eventually move into their own apartments independently.

That became a reality for Chelsia Williams.

Nine years ago, her life was a mess.

She was an alcoholic in denial about a diagnosis of bipo- lar disorder, and she had little regard for how she treated herself and others. But she found LifeNet for help with mental illness, and her life slowly started turning around.

She wound up utilizing several LifeNet services, including permanent supportive housing, emergency food and clothing donations.

Now she is a full-time employee at LifeNet, with her own apartment in the neighborhood, a closet full of stylish clothes she bought herself, a savings account and plans for a cruise-ship vacation.

“I’m just so happy to be alive,” she says. “I love myself.”

Hamblen’s room in the Prince of Wales apartment building comprises about 200 square feet, including a twin-size bed, shower, sink, toilet, a few cabinets and a closet. It is modest, but a bed is the smallest measure of kingdom, and this is Hamblen’s.

Black-and-white photos of Marilyn Monroe decorate the walls. There is an outdated TV and immaculate bedding.

“If you’re homeless and you have kids, there are a lot of services available for that,” says Hamblen, 51. “If you’re homeless and single, there are not as many options.”

Hamblen takes pride in the building and its community. He showed talent for procuring donations when the building threw a barbecue for residents one Fourth of July. Since then, he has taken on the role of coordinator for donations.

Another resident enjoys mowing, so he is in charge of cutting the grass. Some residents fix meals in the community kitchen for those who don’t cook.

“It’s almost like a family,” says LifeNet vice president of development Ross Taylor. “The residents really take care of each other.”

LifeNet also finds jobs for many of its 2,000 clients. Not only that, the nonprofit creates job opportunities for them.

LifeNet contracts with the cities of Richardson and McKinney, as well as the Majestic Theater, WRR radio station and the Meyerson Symphony Center. LifeNet clients do all the custodial work, maintenance, litter pickup and landscaping for them.

Even though LifeNet helps some 2,000 clients, the nonprofit is always stretched to its limits. It is not uncommon for 12 or more people to be lined up outside the clinic by 6:45 a.m. It opens at 8 a.m. and accepts only 10 walk-ins each day.

A $1.2 million loss in funding has been the result of a tough economy and government cutbacks.

“There is always far more need than there are services available,” CEO Mulvaney says.

Still, LifeNet provides hope and a lifeline for the neighbors who need it most.

WAYS YOU CAN HELP LIFENET: LifeNet always has a need for bedding, housewares, furniture, toiletries, diapers and other baby needs, such as talcum powder.

Volunteers also are needed for many capacities, from childcare and tutoring to office work or helping out in the food pantry. Contact Ross Taylor at 214.932.1939 or mrt@lifenettexas.org.

School Of Contemporary Ballet Dallas

1902 abrams Pkwy., Dallas / 214.821.2066 / www.schoolofcbd.com Summer Dance 2011. Two sessions available: June 6-August 13. Toddlers/Youths/ Teens classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz & HipHop, Contemporary and Fairies & Frogs, Princesses & Princes, Summer Intensive workshops~ Morning, Afternoon & Evening classes available. Register Now! ADULTS, Get in Shape with Dance Workout, Just Barre and Basics Beginner Classes! All levels of Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Hip-hop Contemporary & Tap! Professional instructors in a positive environment! Schedule available on-line. REGISTER NOW – space is limited!

the hiGhLaNDer SchooL

9120 Plano rd. Dallas / 214.348.3220 / www.highlanderschool.com Founded in 1966, Highlander School offers an enriched curriculum in a positive, Christian-based environment. Small class sizes help teachers understand the individual learning styles of each student. Give us a call for more information.

JaNie chriSty SchooL oF DaNce

9090 Skillman, Ste. 299a Dallas 75243 / 214.343.7472 www.janiechristydance.com

This is Janie Christy’s 19th year teaching children to dance in Lake Highlands! Offerings include creative movement, preschool ballet & tap combos, kindergarten thru adults in ballet, tap, jazz-hip/hop and modern. Winter Session for Moms/Tots will be Fridays in Jan and Feb. introducing toddlers 14 mos. thru 2 yrs. to fun songs, word plays and dance activities. 11:15 a.m.-12:00. www.janiechristydance.com

LakehiLL PreParatory SchooL

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

ScoFieLD chriStiaN SchooL

50 years educating 3k through Grade 6 214-349-6843 / ww.scofieldchristian.org

PRESCHOOL PREVIEW DAY! February 16th at 10:00 am Bring your 3k – 4k child and experience a day in the life of our preschool students. Spend time in the library, create a masterpiece in the art room, play around in PE and visit our preschool classrooms. Join us and discover what makes SCS the school for your family. You will find a friendly spirit that can be seen in every classroom and beyond. Scofield Christian School is accredited through the Association of Christian Schools International (A.C.S.I.).

SPaNiSh hoUSe

5740 Prospect ave. Dallas / 214.826.4410 / DallasSpanishhouse.com Spanish House is a Spanish immersion preschool for children ages 2 – 5. We offer half-day and full-day programs with extended day care available from 7:30am – 6:00pm. We offer a traditional preschool curriculum delivered 100% in Spanish. Prior exposure to Spanish is not necessary. Our teachers are experienced, degreed, native-Spanish speakers. We also offer after-school and Saturday classes for PK and elementary-aged students, both onand off-site. Additionally, we have an adult Spanish program for beginning, intermediate and advanced students.

St. chriStoPher’S MoNteSSori SchooL

7900 Lovers Ln. / 214.363.9391 www.stchristophersmontessori.com St. Christopher’s Montessori School has been serving families in the DFW area for over a quarter of a century. We are affiliated with the American Montessori Society and our teachers are certified Montessori instructors. Additionally our staff has obtained other complimentary educational degrees and certifications, including having a registered nurse on staff. Our bright and attractive environment, and highly qualified staff, ensures your child will grow and develop in an educationally sound, AMS certified loving program. Now Enrolling.

St. JohN’S ePiScoPaL SchooL

848 harter rd., Dallas 75218 / 214.328.9131 / www.stjohnsschool.org

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

white rock North SchooL

9727 white rock trail Dallas / 214.348.7410. 2 Years through 5th Grade. 45 years of successful students! Our accelerated curriculum provides opportunity for intellectual and physical development in a loving and nurturing environment. Character-building and civic responsibility are stressed. Facilities include indoor swimming pool, skating rink, updated playground, and state-of-the-art technology lab. Kids Club on the Corner provides meaningful after-school experiences. Summer Camp offers field trips, swimming, and a balance of indoor and outdoor activities designed around fun-filled themes. Accredited by SACS. Call for a tour of the campus. www.WhiteRockNorthSchool.com.

ZioN LUtheraN SchooL

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

Baptist

LAKESIDE BAPTIST / 9150 Garland Rd / 214.324.1425

Pastor Jeff Donnell / Worship 10:30 am & 10:31 am www.lbcdallas.com

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

DIS c IPLES of c hrIST

E AST DALLAS chrISTIAn church / 629 N. Peak Street / 214.824.8185

Sunday School 9:30 am / THE TABLE Worship Gathering 9:30 am

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

E PIScoPAL

ThE c AThEDrAL church of ST. MATThEW / 5100 Ross Ave.

Sunday Traditional: 8:00 & 10:30 am / Christian Education 9:30 am

Hispanic Service 12:30 / 214.823.8134 / www.episcopalcathedral.org

ThE EPIScoPAL church of ThE AScEnSIon / 8787 Greenville Ave.

Sunday School 9:00 am / Worship 8:00 & 10:15 am 214.340.4196 / more at www.ascensiondallas.org

Lu ThErAn

cEnTrAL LuThErAn church, ELcA / 1000 Easton Road

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

Pastor Rich Pounds / CentralLutheran.org / 214.327.2222 fIrST unITED LuThErAn church / 6202 E Mockingbird Ln.

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

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

MET hoDIST

WhITE rocK unITED METhoDIST / www.wrumc.org

1450 Oldgate Lane / 214.324.3661

Sunday Worship 10:50 am / Rev. George Fisk

non -DE noMIn ATIon AL

ShorELInE DALLAS church / 5321 E. Mockingbird Lane

ShorelineDallas.com / 469.227.0471 / Pastor Earl McClellan

Everyone’s Welcome at 9:15am / Children’s & Youth Ministry

PrESB y TE r IA n

norThPArK PrESBy TErIAn church / 214.363.5457 9555 N. Central Expwy. / www.northparkpres.org

Pastor: Rev. Brent Barry / 8:30 & 11:00 am Sunday Services norThrIDGE PrESBy TErIAn church / 6920 Bob-O-Link Dr. 214.827.5521 / www.northridgepc.org / Welcomes you to Worship

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

ST. AnDrEW ’S PrESBy TErIAn / Skillman & Monticello

Rev. Rob Leischner. / www.standrewsdallas.org

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

unIT y

unIT y of DALLAS / A Positive Path For Spiritual Living

6525 Forest Lane, Dallas, TX 75230 / 972-233-7106 / UnityDallas.org

Sunday services: 9:00 am & 11:00 am