2012 July Lakewood

WHITE ROCK’S

WILD SIDE

Poster-worthy pictures of our urban oasis

MOST IMAGING APPOINTMENTS ARE SCHEDULED THE SAME DAY.

Because

What do you mean I’M NOT COVERED? ALERT!

I highly recommend you check your Homeowners policy for coverage. Don’t be surprised and shocked that your current policy will not cover slow leaks and seepage. This could cost you thousands and thousands of $$$ if you are denied coverage with your current insurance contract.

Does your current Auto insurance carrier force aftermarket parts as mandatory to repair your vehicle? Do you really want to take the chance that cheap and inefficient parts are installed at time of your repair? Don’t let this happen to you! Call me for the type of Auto Insurance you want and need.

WILDLIFECOLLECTION SPONSOREDBY JOHN WHITESIDE, TEAMWHITESIDE - COLDWELLBANKER RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE

SECTION PAGE 66

Outstanding Businesswomen celebrates local business women.

PHOTO BY ROBERT BUNCH

THE HAPPY PEOPLE

A simple truth about this complicated demographic

A couple of months ago at a graduation ceremony, I listened as one of the highranking students addressed the crowd with a remarkably complete view of her future.

Her view was remarkable because the newly minted graduate still has quite a bit to learn about how the world actually works.

But no matter. She said something interesting that I’m still thinking about weeks later.

Quoting her father, she talked about striving to achieve this particular piece of advice: Go where the happy people are.

Turns out that pearl probably is derived from a song by “The Trammps” during the 1970s; the song’s about a lonely homebody who “put my blues on the shelf” and headed to a disco to be where the “happy people go.”

That’s a simple piece of wisdom, and it’s more difficult to achieve than it sounds, primarily because finding “happy people” is more challenging as we venture further and further from high school.

Identifying “happy people” is something I’ve thought quite a lot about lately. I’ve learned over the years that “smiling” people aren’t necessarily “happy”; some of them are just really good at looking the part, even if they hurt a lot beneath the surface.

And I’ve learned that “scowling” people aren’t necessarily “unhappy,” since hard work and relentless pressure tends to bend even the strongest among us, curling the face muscles permanently

downward even if the attitude inside isn’t necessarily that way.

So if hanging with happy people is a goal, yet finding them isn’t easy, what’s the real message?

Something I’ve noticed over the years is that the people who are happiest seem to have discovered a simple fact of life: You’re likely to be happy if you honestly believe you are really good at something.

From what I can tell, you don’t actually have to be good at a specific task to be happy; you just have to believe you are.

As an example, look at our presidents and those who are candidates for the office: Agree with them or not, they always exhibit the confidence that comes with sincerely believing they are the right man or woman for the job. And no matter how well others think they did in office, they seem satisfied with their effort.

Look at athletes, the elite and the beerdrinking alike: They are good because when the game is on the line, they believe they alone should be taking the shot or fielding the ball.

It works the same with teachers, with waitresses, with day-care workers, with truck drivers — those who believe they are best at what they do want to be in the middle of the action and seem most likely to be happy.

It makes sense: If we believe we’re good at something, we have reason to go home at the end of every day satisfied that we’re making a contribution to our neighborhood, to our companies, to our co-workers, to our friends and to ourselves.

And although simply going home each day happy to have made a contribution may not sound that earthshaking, those of us who have been at this awhile know that if it was all that easy, it wouldn’t be so difficult to “go where the happy people are.”

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 email rwamre@advocatemag.com.

DISTRIBUTION PH/214.560.4203

ADVERTISING PH/214.560.4203

office administrator: JUDY LILES

214.560.4203 / jliles@advocatemag.com

display sales manager: BRIAN BEAVERS

214.560.4201 / bbeavers@advocatemag.com

senior advertising consultant: AMY DURANT

214.560.4205 / adurant@advocatemag.com

senior advertising consultant: KRISTY GACONNIER

214.560.4213 / kgaconnier@advocatemag.com

advertising consultants

CATHERINE PATE

214.292.0494 / cpate@advocatemag.com

NORA JONES

214.292.0962 / njones@advocatemag.com

J ENNI F ER T HOMAS V OSS

214.635.2122 / jvoss@advocatemag.com

F RANK McCLENDON

214.560.4215 / fmcclendon@advocatemag.com

J ESSICA J ENKINS

214.292.0485 / jjenkins@advocatemag.com

classified manager: PRIO BERGER

214.560.4211 / pberger@advocatemag.com

classified consultant

SALLY ACKERMAN

214.560.4202 / sackerman@advocatemag.com

marketing director: M EGHAN R INEY

214.292.0486 / mriney@advocatemag.com

EDITORIAL PH/ 214.292.2053

publisher: RICK WAMRE

214.560.4212 / rwamre@advocatemag.com

managing editor: CHRISTINA HUGHES BABB

214.560.4204 / chughes@advocatemag.com

senior editor: KERI MITCHELL

214.292.0487 / kmitchell@advocatemag.com

editors

EMILY TOMAN

214.292.2053 / etoman@advocatemag.com

RACHEL STONE

214.292.0490 / rstone@advocatemag.com

senior art director: JYNNETTE NEAL 214.560.4206 / jneal@advocatemag.com

art director: J ULIANNE FOWLER 214.292.0493 / jfowler@advocatemag.com

designers: JEANINE MICHNA-BALES, L ARRY OLIVER

contributing editors: JEFF SIEGEL, SALLY WAMRE

contributors: SEAN CHAFFIN, GAYLA KOKEL, GEORGE MASON, BLAIR MONIE, ELLEN RAFF

photo editor: CAN TÜRKYILMAZ

214.560.4200 / cturkyilmaz@advocatemag.com

photographers: MARK DAVIS, DANNY FULGENCIO, ALISON FECHTEL, LORI BANDI

interns: JASMINE BIBBS, TALLY MCCORMACK, MATT MOZEK, JESSICA PETROCCHI, AMBER PLUMLEY, AMANDA RAMIREZ, KELSEY SAMUELS, LAURI VALERIO, CLARA WITTEN

Advocate Publishing 6301 Gaston Avenue, Suite 820, Dallas, TX 75214

Advocate, © 2011, 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.

Advocate was founded in 1991 by Jeff Siegel, Tom Zielinski and Rick Wamre.

COMMENTS

New restaurant

[Benny’s Classic Grill] Hasn’t been open long but the kids and I are regulars already [“New restaurant from Lovers Pizza owners coming to Garland Road,” April 18]. They greet us by name, and the other day they comped our whole meal when we walked in ten minutes before closing. Fast food pricing but healthier choices and of course not supporting the big chains. I love the smoked salmon, artichoke and eggplant panino. I order green-bean fries instead of French fries. —Cindy

Bike lanes

Camp

How about some kind of user fee, such as an annual license/registration for cyclists [“City manager recommends 47 miles of bike lanes in bond package,” June 8]? At least those who use the bike lanes will not shift the burden onto others. After all, the city charges to use golf courses, go to the zoo, arboretum, etc. How about making this special class of citizens, cyclists, pay for their lanes?

Color proofs: because of the difference between the color proofing and the pressroom reasonable variation in color between color job shall constitute an acceptable delivery.

—Citizen Kane

Local street construction is paid for through sales tax, which cyclists already pay. —Stuart

Skillman rezoning

The owner has already run off two daytime small businesses (Paperbacks Plus and the Consignment Solution) and replaced them with a bar-restaurant (Matt’s) because they make more money on the nighttime-use lease [“Neighborhood residents uneasy about Skillman rezoning request,” June 7]. Proof of their real intentions are in the pudding! Second, if the rezoning is approved, it is forever. “Commercial retail zoning” never is rezoned to something to less. If rezoned, the land owner can put anything they want in there that meets zoning — bar, bar-restaurant, etc. So whatever they say now or whatever they may actually want to do now has no bearing on what could go there at anytime in the future.

—Lower Greenville Resident

Winfrey Point parking

attention to spelling, grammar, difference in equipment and conditions pressroom operations, a color proofs and the completed delivery.

Great work, Advocate Gerry Worrall knew about Mary Brinegar’s plans to privatize and commercialize Winfrey Point but said nothing to the stakeholders around the lake [“Advocate Radio: Who’s in charge of Winfrey Point parking?” June 7]. Joan Walne is simply an apologist for Ms. Brinegar’s plans to pave the park. Neither of them have any credibility on this issue. Councilman Kadane usually does the right thing on park matters. So here’s to that. All these appointees and departments report to the elected officials. And if the elected officials don’t do the right thing, we the

Remodeling Talk...

Storm Damage to Your Roof? Choose a Contractor Wisely

Has your roof been damaged by hail or wind, or are there other areas of damage? While replacing a roof seems relatively simple, there are many roofing contractors who are not fully qualified to do the job right. Their shoddy work could cost you money, headaches, or worse. You’ll find inexperienced roofers cropping up after a hail storm. We’re not against opportunism in the land of opportunity, but as a customer, beware. If you don’t use a local company with a Dallas license, an office, a reputation to protect, and knowledge of the local area, you could have trouble. We’ve heard countless stories and repaired the leaks and careless work of fly-by-night roofers. When we look them up online, they’re usually nowhere to be found. So if you hire a company like this, will you be able to find them if you have a problem

two years from now? And will they still be in Texas?

Poor work is common in roofing because customers are usually unaware of what’s involved (and the roof is out of sight and out of mind), including smart best practices, roof flashing details, handling problem spots, understanding alternative roof coverings, shingle types, grades, colors, low and high slope roofing.

A roofer you can trust to be around for years and to back your warranty will earn your business by providing a thorough consultation and advice on the products, the process, and the warranty coverages. Even more important, a good roofing company will have a history and a reputation they won’t risk jeopardizing. Bella Vista Company is one. Please talk to us first if your roof is in need of repair or replacement. We’ll come out, inspect your roof, and give you a pressure-free, informative consultation. 6318

voters will replace them. That’s how this issue is going to play out. —Joe

Tex

It is troubling that the people who have been vested as final decision-makers did not have the fortitude to be on record. We all know what they have planned; just get it over and tell us the truth. Public transportation has to be a key element, moving forward. Why? Their own plans show huge upticks in vehicles on community streets to the point of gridlock.

—Ted Barker

It’s a bit scary to think that the council can possibly have ceded to an appointed board a decision so important as paving part of a public park. I shall be watching for your follow-up as to whether Mr. Kadane’s office has researched the issue of final authority on paving.

—GayHopkins

My concern now is the plan to turn Garland Road properties into a series of parking lots. Is no one else horrified by that idea?

—DMarshall

us.

Visit lakewood.advocatemag.com to read and comment on this month’s stories and daily blog updates. Comments may be printed in the magazine.

EMAIL EDITOR RACHEL rstone@advocatemag.com

Darin Breedlove, CR, CGR, CGP, CAPS and Lance Tyler

Q&A: Kenny Withrow

Fame came to Kenny Withrow in 1988, when the song he wrote with Edie Brickell, “What I Am,” became a major hit. A ubiquitous pop song is not exactly what they were going for, but that’s what they got.>>

We’ll give you a smile that leaves everyone blinded by the light.

Almost overnight, the New Bohemians went from playing shows for a few hundred people at Club Dada to launching their nationwide tour with a performance on “Saturday Night Live.”

“We were like a Deep Ellum weirdo band, and all of a sudden we were on top-40 radio,” Withrow says. He was born and raised inLakewood, and now plays with Cricket Taylor in the Electro-Magnetics. Their new album, “Dirty,” was released a few months ago.

You grew up on Bob-O-Link. Where were you living after high school? There were six of us living in a three-bedroom house on Bryan Parkway. Six dudes and six cats. Some people called it the litter box. There was also a documentary that someone filmed on New Year’s Eve. It’s floating around out there somewhere. We were moving out on Jan. 1, and it was called “The Slime Palace.”

Do you remember the address?

No. The house is not there any more. There’s an apartment building there now. But that’s where we wrote a lot of the New Bohemians’ first record. Edie [Brickell] would tolerate the environment and come in and jam for a period of time.

What are you working on right now?

I play with Cricket Taylor (also a neighborhood resident) and The Electro-Magnetics. It’s two guitars and drums. Gerard Bendiks is the drummer. I love that band. It’s been since New Bohemians that I’ve felt so good about a band. I also play in Forgotten Space, just for the love of it. We play Grateful Dead music. Oh, and I also play with Edie sometimes in a band called Heavy Makeup.

And you teach guitar?

I teach guitar at the Kessler Theater, mostly to kids, but I have some adult students as well. And I teach a class at the Oak Cliff Cultural Center.

What do you like about teaching?

I like to teach kids the way I wish I had been taught. It’s a way that makes guitar more fun and easier to learn. I didn’t have

Beadle

smile is only a phone call away.

a good time learning the theory of guitar. It’s important to learn the notes of the guitar, but [most guitar teachers] want you to learn a lot of songs that are very boring and concentrate on the notes instead of just playing the guitar immediately. I get them playing songs right away. And then the questions about theory naturally come as they get curious.

I know you graduated from an arts magnet high school. Did you go to college after?

I went to Richland College for a while. There was a brief time when a lot of arts magnet students were going to Richland and not going to UNT because a lot of people would go to UNT for a year and then drop out. Paul Guerrero was the lab band teacher, and he was amazing. I was there for almost two years, and that’s where New Bohemians actually started.

Didn’t you already know Edie Brickell from arts magnet?

What if, during the course of your new home’s construction, you change your mind about a detail in your new home? If you decide to remove a wall, fall in love with new fixtures, or change your mind about the flooring, will your project go over time and over budget?

You’re concerned that your builder is going to ask for more money. And that concern is justified by online stories of changes gone awry, timelines thrown off, and budgets busted. It’s a problem we’ve recognized for years, but we’ve done something about it.

Changes you request

of experience, we believe we’re accountable — not our customers — to prepare, and to anticipate and avoid potential problems. It isn’t just a matter of principle; we have the expertise to avoid surprises that many builders don’t have. That’s why when an unanticipated change arises, we don’t charge either of the two common fees: a change fee or a timeline adjustment fee.

Don’t be afraid of change

I met her in high school, but we became friends after I joined the band. She was in the band about two months before I was. She got her start at an open mic after Calm Eddie’s comedy show. She had never sung before, and she got up and improvised with them. She’s a great improviser. That’s the great thing about Heavy Makeup. You can just play, and she is like another instrument with lyrics and singing. She’s another member of the band, just jamming, basically.

CONTINUES ONLINE

Read more

—Rachel Stone

from our interview with Kenny Withrow at lakewood.advocatemag.com.

Almost all change requests are initiated by the customer: a change of materials or an adjustment to the floor plan. As a Bella Vista customer, you never have to worry. We’re flexible. We’ll complete a change request form with just the fee for the work itself – not an administrative fee or a timeline adjustment fee – and then notify you with the change to the project schedule. Our efficiency minimizes your cost.

Unforeseen changes

It’s rare, but problems beyond the control of the buyer or builder may happen. It could be inclement weather, a pest infestation, or vandalism. As builders with decades

You’re entitled to complete satisfaction. That’s why we’ve done everything to make our process change-friendly. So if a surprise comes up, don’t worry. You’ve already got our change policies in writing, in your hands right now.

Darin Breedlove, CR, CGR, CGP, CAPS and Lance Tyler

the thrilling side of accounting

Bob Sinnott went to work for a Big Four accounting firm right out of college. It was a grueling, competitive work environment, where young associates clawed their way up the ranks. Those days of working 60hour weeks and partying at night were the inspiration for Sinnott’s novel, “The Ex And The Why.” “It’s a novel about young professional 20-somethings working for big firms, and the shenanigans that go with that,” he says. “Everyone’s jockeying for their place in the chain. It’s a satire on that whole environment.” The 47-year-old neighborhood resident says he always has been mathematically inclined as well as creative. Over the years, he has written nine screenplays, four of which have received option contracts from studios, although none have been produced. In 2010, the accounting firm he worked for was acquired by another firm, and he accepted a severance package. He’d been toying with the novel for several years, so he took the opportunity to write it “for real,” he says. He treated writing the novel like a regular job. Monday through Friday, he drove to Starbucks and started writing around 9 a.m., and he would call it a day around 4 p.m. The story of the novel “is really a love triangle,” he says. “The main character wants to upgrade to his ex’s best friend, and the ex is stalking him,” Sinnott says. “But he feels this is really the woman he’s supposed to be with.” He drew from the many notebooks he’s kept over the years, containing journal entries, character sketches and details from his early days in the accounting jungle. Once the novel was finished, Sinnott entered it into a contest for new writers through selfpublisher Create Space, and he won. The prize was artwork, editing, publishing and distribution through Amazon.com. So far, the book has sold about 1,100 copies. Sinnott is back to a day job as CFO of a Dallas company. His sons with wife Kimberly are 7 and 4. But even though he’s back on the numbers grind, that doesn’t mean he’s neglecting the right brain. Sinnott paints in his free time, and he’s busy writing his next screenplay. —Rachel Stone

We would like to welcome you to our Walnut Hill OB/Gyn family. Please call our office or go online to schedule an appointment.

Can

When the summer heat threatens to fry your soles, there’s nothing better than slipping on an airy pair of flip-flops. The flip-flop speaks: Hey, I dig my life, don’t sweat the little things, and I’m ready if a pool party breaks out. But flip-flops can be horrible, too, when the plastic thong cuts through toes or the flips flop too loudly, drawing attention to the fact that you are donning the world’s most casual shoe at the office. Not good. A Lakewood couple recently launched Hari Mari, a footwear company offering uber-comfy (and quiet) flip-flops. Lila and Jeremy Stewart were both hardworking professionals, she in the music business and he in politics, who were ready to shift gears and stay put in our neighborhood. Fashioning, producing and marketing their own piece of clothing, they agreed, would be fun, Lila says. They were both interested in footwear, specifically casual wear, because Jeremy had spent his working life in a suit, tie and dress shoes, Lila says. They made a few Hari Mari prototypes and hired an agency to get feedback from focus groups. “We wanted people to tell us the truth about the product, not just our family and friends trying to be nice to us and saying they liked it,” Lila says. The result was a simple design featuring a variety of tropical colors — oranges, blues and greens — a memory foam-lined toe support; firm, mid-sole arches; a durable hemp foot bed; and dense, rubber-tread soles. At press time, it’s been 10 weeks since the Stewarts, along with Lila’s brother Garrett Horton, launched their Parks line of Hari Mari footwear, and their jaunty product already is selling in 20 stores in Tennessee, Oklahoma, Kentucky and at Luke’s Locker and Original Octane (near KnoxHenderson) here in Dallas. The shoes are $60 a set, and $5 from each sale go to Cook Children’s hospital to fund treatment of pediatric cancer. Lila and Jeremy, relatively new parents, say they wanted to build philanthropy into the business model, and they had friends with a child who recently needed treatment at Cook. Their friends had a great experience there, so that became the charity, Lila says. The Stewarts hope to release a second line in fall 2013 and, eventually, a children’s line.

—Christina Hughes Babb

beautiful bug busters

Who doesn’t enjoy sitting on the porch on a mild summer evening? Anyone whose sweet skin is tasty to mosquitos, that’s who. Even if you can get past the heat (shade and misters usually will do the trick), the bugs often prove too much to handle. And aside from heat and flying creepies, nothing spoils an al fresco dinner party more than the scent and stick of bug spray. Eww. Fortunately a Forest Hills family possessing long-proven olfactory prowess came up with the perfect solution in their Skeeter Screen line of mildly scented pest deterrents. In the early ’70s, Mark Stuart’s family had a little retail shop in Old Town shopping center. He worked the register when he was 10, went to Bishop Lynch High School, moved away, went to college and started a family before moving back to Forest Hills, next door to his parents’ (his childhood) home. “I didn’t realize how much I loved that neighborhood until I moved away,” he says. Stuart’s parents John and Jean, both schooled scientists, turned the business into a perfumery. They eventually moved their store, Scent Shop, to Garland. Now it’s all things fragrance — candles, sprays, oils, soaps, you name it — and Stuart, his two brothers and his parents, now in their 80s, run the store. The Skeeter Screen products are so popular that many neighborhood stores — Tee Hee Greetings, Sample House and the Dallas Arboretum gift shop, for example — also sell them. Skeeter Screen items are made with the Stuart family’s blend of all-natural essential oils from cedar, rosemary, peppermint, clove and thyme. The mix emits a scent that is pleasant to humans yet unbearable to mosquitos. The line includes candles, sprays, reed diffusers and, most recently, the popular patio egg. “It’s a ceramic egg, a universal symbol,” Stuart notes. He says his mom’s decorative ostrich egg inspired the idea. The small aesthetic egg eliminates most bugs within 200-300 square feet and works for months.

VISIT SCENTSHOP.COM

or call 800.527.4190 for more information about the Scent Shop and Stuart family products.

—Christina Hughes Babb

Danny Fulgencio

loaves of fun

After Christine Carey divorced a few years ago, she needed a way to make a little money and still be home in time to pick her three kids up from school. The design degree she earned in the ’90s was a bit outdated, since so much had changed since then, and she needed a flexible schedule. “I knew how to bake bread and do a lot of stuff like that,” she says. “So I thought, ‘I’ll just start baking bread and selling it at the farmers markets.’ ” That’s how her startup, We Me Bakery, came to be. Carey lived for four years in Spain where she learned to bake the rustic Spanish bread that is the foundation of her business. The neighborhood resident also produces sauces and spreads that complement the bread. She recently started making pimento cheese, which Cox Farms Market in Duncanville and the online grocer Greenling have picked up. Greenling has told her it will buy any in-season prepared foods she can make, but Carey is operating on what she calls “a snail economy.” “I do everything for my kids first,” she says. “And I work during the school day.” Carey has a kitchen and a booth at the Grand Prairie Farmers Market, where she sells her wares from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. every Saturday. In the wintertime, she also has a spot at the Coppell Farmers Market. She has a few personal chef clients in the neighborhood. And she brings five loaves of bread a week to the Coffee Co. in Lakewood. She’s fine with keeping the business very small. “If someone gave me $250,000, I would buy a big kitchen and hire help and expand,” she says. “But I don’t want to be in debt.”

—Rachel Stone

FIND OUT MORE at wemedallas.com

Flag Pole Hill

As told to Keri Mitchell by Sally Rodriguez, Dallas Park and Recreation Department’s historian. Photos are courtesy of the Dallas Municipal Archives and curated by Rodriguez. She authored the book “White Rock Lake,” available at area bookstores and through arcadiapublishing.com.

More than 400 acres for the northern area of White Rock Lake was acquired from Church Goforth, including the land now known as Flag Pole Hill. The area was originally named Doran’s Point Overlook. The point can be seen just across Northwest Highway, on the upper left of the picture. Today the point’s edge is marked by trees and not water. The roadway that goes up and around Flag Pole Hill is Doran Circle. William Doran was a city commissioner responsible for negotiating with all of the landowners to acquire the land for White Rock Lake. Because of its elevation, Flag Pole Hill was an excellent location for radio towers that can be seen in the foreground. The building closest to the towers was utilized by WRR and today is our reservation office. The southern extension of White Rock Trail has not been built through the park. The road going across the lower right hand corner is now Lanshire, but was originally Mockingbird Lane. Prior to the Mockingbird bridge over the lake, Mockingbird flowed directly into what is now West Lawther, and if you continue north of Northwest Highway, the road turns and flows into what is now Lanshire.

Now Mockingbird goes across and White Rock Trail has been built. This picture is prior to the dredging that created Mockingbird Point where the dog park is now. They dredged in the late ’60s and early ’70s. I had an argument with someone who was telling me about the 200-year-old pecan tree on Mockingbird Point and I said, “That’s kind of impossible because the land did not exist.”

late 1950s

VISIT LAKEWOOD.ADVOCATEMAG.COM and search Sally Rodriguez to find more historical photos of neighborhood parks.

Recent storms have caused strong wind and hail in

Tice Enterprises Ltd. is a licensed professional roofing contractor, specializing in residential and commercial roofing projects and experienced in client insurance claim assistance. With expertise in all types of roofing, we are certified and recognized as industry leaders by roofing manufacturers.

Tice is bondable, insured, licensed and has an extensive list of commercial and residential customers. proud

branding a neighborhood

How Gastonwood/Coronado Hills became Lakewood Hills

“Where do you live?” It’s usually the first question in a casual conversation between Dallasites who are getting acquainted. And the answer, most often, is not a street name or a landmark, but the name of a neighborhood. So what happens if you live in an unfamiliar neighborhood? That was the problem for Gastwonwood/Coronado Hills, a small neighborhood of roughly 550 homes on four streets south of Gaston and mostly west of East Grand — Clayton, Casa Loma, Coronado and La Vista. “What kept coming up is, we have an identity crisis. Nobody knows who we are and where we are,” says neighborhood association president Stewart Cockrell. “Some people call us the C Streets, and nobody knew our real name.” Gastonwood/Coronado Hills had been the official name since the neighborhood association formed in 1981, and was a conflation of a couple smaller neighborhoods that came together, Cockrell says. But nearly 30 years later, the name was still not commonly known — plus, Gastonwood/Coronado Hills doesn’t easily fit on a street sign topper. Referring to “the C Streets” began in the ’80s as a response to Realtors who began trying to distinguish streets in Greenland Hills by calling them “the M Streets,” says Jeanette Crumpler, who has lived in her home on La Vista since 1960. “The Realtors who were pushing buying in this area said, ‘No, you want to buy on the C Streets,’ ” Crumpler says. To quell the name confusion, the board decided to take a vote, and sent surveys out to residents with three choices: Lakewood Hills, Coronado Hills or keep it Gastonwood/ Coronado Hills. The winner was Lakewood Hills. That was two years ago, and in the time since, the neighborhood association has added Lakewood Hills street sign toppers as well as sculptural monuments at three of the main entrances. The neighborhood utilized its own talents for the designs — noted sculptor David Hickman, who lives on Coronado, created the monuments, and graphic designer Walter Soza, a La Vista resident, fashioned the sign toppers. The signage has enhanced neighborhood pride quite a bit, Cockrell says, and the new name is starting to catch on. “The feedback I’ve heard from the real estate agents in our area has been pretty fantastic in terms of being able to sell,” Cockrell says. “I guess it’s just about branding.”

—Keri Mitchell

Lakewood Hills Neighborhood Association president Stewart Cockrell, left, says the neighborhood had an “identity crisis.” Neighbor Walter Soza designed the neighborhood’s new sign toppers. Photos by Can Türkyilmaz

BEL AIR STUDIO & DESIGN

Gray/Citrine Ikat Cotton Pillow,$299; Stingray sandals in four color ways, $198; White ceramic star, $25, & $38. 2802 Greenville Ave. 214.827.7420

PINOT’S PALETTE

Join us for for kid’s camp and paint... Surfs up, baby. July 16 from 1pm - 5pm PinotsPalette.com 214.827.4668

THE HOSPITALITY SWEET

Now open in London Café inside Timothy Oulton at Potter Square. 4500 N. Central Expressway. 214.534.2241 thehospitalitysweet.com

DC BOUTIQUE

Color block summer maxi’s in different styles and colors for your next summer vacation, now in stock. July sale up to 60% off clothing and accessories. 9219 Garland Rd. dcboutiquetx.com

THE T SHOP

Let’s celebrate ... The T Shop way. 1911 Abrams Parkway 214.821.8314 Visit us on Facebook.

LA MARIPOSA IMPORTS

Welcome! Our Store is your Store for all your South of the Border shopping needs! New shipments arriving weekly! 2813 N. Henderson Ave. 214.826.0069 lamariposaimports.com

BRUMLEY GARDENS

Pesky mosquitos? Our Brumley Gardens diffusers are effective, stylish and deet free! Try our body spray for extra protection. Enjoy the outdoors! Shop Local. 10540 Church Road. 214.343.4900 brumleygardens.com

THE STORE IN LAKE HIGHLANDS

So very Hip!! Introducing campus-perfect styles and three new colors. Featured: Mini Hipster in Indigo Pop Mon-Sat 9:30-5:30. 214.553.8850 10233 E. NW Hwy., #410. TheStoreinLH.com

YOGA MART

New summer tops to help beat the heat. 6039 Oram (at Skillman) 214.534.4469 yogamartusa.com

Out & About

July 2012

July 4

Lakewood Fourth of July Parade

The 49th annual neighborhood parade and fun run kicks off at 8 a.m. with a one-mile run down the parade route. At 9:15 a.m., floats will begin to line up for the 10 a.m. parade, which begins at Lakewood and Cambria and continues to Winsted Park. Following the parade, friends and neighbors are invited to the park for watermelon, snow cones and more. This year’s theme is “Hollywood comes to Lakewood,” and the parade will be led by Grand Marshalls Mayor Rawlings and wife Micki. Lakewood at Cambria, lakewoodparade.com, free, $10 fun run (includes T-shirt)

LAKEWOOD.ADVOCATEMAG.COM/EVENTS

THROUGH JULY 15

‘Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters’

Dallas Children’s Theater presents the tale of a great African king’s search for a wife. Beautiful maidens, rhythmic drumming and African song make this show a lot of fun.

Rosewood Center for Family Arts, 5938

Skillman, 214.740.0051, dct.org, $20–$26

THROUGH JULY 21

Shakespeare in the Park

Shakespeare Dallas presents the 2012 season with “Twelfth Night” (through July 21) and “Coriolanus” (through July 20). Performances, which are held Tuesday–Saturday in an open-air amphitheater, begin at 8:15 p.m.

Samuell-Grand Amphitheatre, 1500 Tenison, shakespearedallas.org, $7–$10 (12 and under free)

THROUGH NOV. 5

‘Chihuly at the Dallas Arboretum’

The Chihuly exhibit continues with dramatic, colorful glass sculptures in more than 15 locations throughout the gardens. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings are “Chihuly Nights,” an opportunity to see the sculptures illuminated. Artist Dale Chihuly’s sculptures have been showcased in 97 exhibitions in seven countries in the last decade. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland, 214.515.6500, dallasarboretum. org, $9 (child)–$15 (adult); Chihuly Nights $9–$20

JULY 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Basically Beethoven Festival 2012

Festival concerts are held in the air-conditioned Grand Hall and feature free, classical chamber music performed by the talented musicians of the Dallas and Fort Worth symphony orchestras, The Dallas Opera Orchestra and more. The concerts, presented by the Fine Arts Chamber Players, are held every Sunday afternoon, July 1–29. A “Rising Star Recital” at 2:30 p.m. precedes each 3 p.m. concert.

Texas Discovery Gardens at Fair Park, 3601 Martin Luther King Jr., 214.520.2219, fineartschamberplayers.org, free

CarolHensley

July 10–22

‘Peter Pan’

Tony Award-nominee Cathy Rigby is coming to the Dallas Summer Musicals stage to present “Peter Pan.” The beloved classic tale is full of fantasy and adventure, and this Emmy Award-winning and Tony Award-nominated production brings it all to life.

You could have hail damage and not realize it.

Music Hall at Fair Park, 909 First, 1.800.745.3000, dallassummermusicals.org, $15–$75

Hail damage?

The June 13th hail storm caused extensive damage to many roofs in Dallas. Damage is not always obvious — give DFW Roofi

JULY 3

36th Infantry Division, U.S. Military Band concert

The Dallas Arboretum hosts a patriotic concert from 7:30–9:30 p.m. Wear your best patriotic attire for the costume contest and have a chance at winning a family four-pack to Studio Movie Grill. Guests can preorder their food from Highland Park Cafeteria or purchase at the kiosk the night of the show. Gates open at 6 p.m. All tickets must be purchased online in advance. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland, 214.515.6500, dallasarboretum.org, $9 (child member)–$22 (adult nonmember), free parking

. That’s important when you want to be people here

We’re local. That’s important when you want to be sure the people you’re dealing with will be here for the long haul.

• We can deal directly with your insurance company to ensure a fair and accurate settlement.

• No up-front costs — payment is due upon completion.

• We do all types of roofs — metal, composition, slate and wood.

• You’ll receive unparalleled customer service.

• We have over 20 years of experience.

• We are bonded and licensed for your protection.

JULY 15

Too Hot To Handle 5k/15k

At 7:30 a.m., runners face the heat at this race, held on the north side of White Rock Lake. Enjoy snacks and a beer garden in the sponsor village following the race. This event benefits the Protective Animal League and Team in Training, the world’s largest endurance sports training program with a mission to raise money to fight blood cancers. Awards will be announced at 9 a.m. Norbuck Park, runproject.org/too-hothandle-5k15k, $30–$45

JULY 4

Fair Park Fourth

From 4:30–10 p.m., Fair Park hosts an evening of family fun complete with a Dallas Wind Symphony patriotic concert, a dancing water show at the Esplanade Fountain and a fireworks show at the Cotton Bowl. During the event, admission to Fair Park’s participating museums will be free or reduced.

Fair Park, 1300 Robert B. Cullum, fairpark.org, free, $10 parking

JULY 4

Little Forest Hills Fourth of July Parade

The Little Forest Hills Neighborhood Association’s 10th annual parade, featuring homemade floats, fire engines, classic cars, entertainers and more, will begin at the corner of Diceman and Old Gate at 9 a.m. This year’s theme is “Planes, Trains and Automobiles,” and neighbors are invited to Casa Linda Park for watermelon, drinks and prizes following the parade.

lfh4thofjulyparade.webstarts.com/ index.html, free

JULY 13–15

Taste of Dallas

Featuring food from more than 60 of the city’s best restaurants, the 26th annual Taste of Dallas returns to Fair Park this year. Chefs will offer culinary demonstrations in the automobile building alongside wine and beer tastings, cookbook signings, a culinary marketplace and more.

Fair Park, 3600 Grand, 214.991.0199, tasteofdallas.org, $8, children 12 and younger free, parking $12

JULY 14, 28

White Rock Local Market

From 8 a.m.–1 p.m., join local farmers, artisans and more for a neighborhood farmers market. July 28 will feature farmers, growers and artisan foods, while July 14 is the “everything” market with arts and crafts as well.

Green Spot Market & Fuels, 702 N. Buckner, whiterocklocalmarket.com, free

Concerts at the Arboretum

This month’s lineup includes Lime Light, Asleep at the Wheel, Good Question Band, Killdares, Molly Ringwalds, Blaze of Glory, Brave Combo and Spazmatics.

Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland, 214.515.6500, dallasarboretum.org, $9–$22

There’sa certain stigma attached to dining out with small children. Servers are generally not enthusiastic about cleaning up the mess. Goodfriend passes no such judgment. “We don’t hate your kids,” says owner Matt Tobin. “We opened this restaurant for the neighborhood. We are catering to the element that is here, and it’s young families.” Goodfriend serves up “farmhouse burgers” made with grass-fed beef and has quite a selection of craft beers. The menu lists suggestions for pairings. The Loretta beef burger with onionbacon jam and blue cheese goes well with the Left Hand Milk Stout. Not a meat-eater? There are options for veggie and turkey burgers, too. The most inventive item on the menu, Tobin says, is the Latin Lover, a chorizo burger with roasted red peppers, caramelized onions and manchego. Goodfriend doesn’t have a kids’ menu, and it doesn’t need one. The “cuddly pigs” (pigs-in-a-blanket) and sweet waffle fries keep the little ones happy. —Emily

Toman

The coop burger comes with lettuce, tomato, an over-easy egg, grilled bacon and brie.

Photo by Mark Davis

This

The

The

Hacienda On Henderson

Beat the heat... meet friends on our patio for refreshing drinks.

Half Price Food on Mondays! 5-10pm

Open Daily 11am-2am. Late Night Menu. Catering Available.

Lunch Menu 11am-3pm.

porch sippin’

Fâmega vinho verde ($7) Portugal

Dodie’s Reef

Check out our new menu. Enjoy brunch every Saturday and Sunday on our rooftop overlooking Greenville Ave. Lunch Specials Daily. Crawfish

Season is here!

Texas summers are so annoyingly hot that even people who have lived here all their lives never get quite used to it. Right about now, most of us are looking at the thermometer, checking the calendar, and trying to figure out when the first cool day will get here.

Which means it’s time for porch wines. These are lighter wines, red and white, that can be served cool — or even colder — and offer relief from the heat. Typically, they’re lower in alcohol, are crisp and fresh tasting, and can even be sweet. Plus, they won’t turn to mush if you add an ice cube.

These wines will get any porch sipping started:

($16): This Spanish sparkling wine was made for the North Texas summer. It’s soft and generous, with sweet lemon fruit and bubbles that won’t quit. It’s a touch sweeter than most bruts (which means dry), but that’s not a problem.

A French red with just enough grapey flavor so that you can tell it’s from Beaujolais, but also lots and lots of character. Had acid and freshness, rare for a Beaujolais, as well as an earthiness and even some dark fruit. The quintessential porch red.

Vinho verde means green wine in Portuguese, and yes, there is a green tint to it (and even a little fizz). But it’s made for hot weather, with low alcohol and sweetish green apple fruit, and it doesn’t require tasting panels or long discussions. You’ll see many different producers, but the wine tastes mostly the same regardless (and can often be the same wine with a different label).

—Jeff Siegel

2326 N. Henderson Ave. haciendaonhenderson.com 214.515.9990

MEXICAN CAJUN

dining SPOTLIGHT

with your wine

Not your usual black bean and corn salad

This dish’s poor reputation is due to canned vegetables and their lack of flavor. Fortunately, there are ways around that, even if you have to use canned black beans. Use thawed frozen corn if you don’t have fresh, and cherry tomatoes are a vast improvement over the usual grocery store stuff. Serve as part of any picnic with your favorite porch wine.

GROCERY LIST

2 c cooked black beans (well-drained if canned)

1 c corn kernels

1 c cherry tomatoes, sliced in half

3-4 Tbsp chopped cilantro

1/4 c diced red onion

1 jalapeño, finely chopped

3-4 Tbsp lime juice

2 Tbsp olive oil

cumin, coriander, salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS

1. Combine the black beans and corn, and microwave for 30 seconds or so to heat up.

2. Add the remaining ingredients and mix well.

Serves four as a side dish

Takes about 15 minutes

Ask the wine guy

How many grapes does it take to make a bottle of wine?

Ab out 2 1/2 p oun d s, w h ic h wor k s o ut to .0002 5 of an acre.

Jeff Siegel

ASK THE WINE GUY taste@advocatemag.com

JEFF SIEGEL’S WEEKLY WINE REVIEWS appear every Wednesday on lakewood.advocatemag.com

Restaurant Talk

lakewood.advocatemag.com

Coffee so good you’ll forget someone is selling cremation next door

It’s not the type of place that stands out immediately. You’re more likely to notice the large “Local Cremation” sign at the corner of Greenville and Royal than the quaint “Café Silva” or subsequent “Coffee Shop” one. And once you start thinking about the whole cremation thing, do you really still want coffee and a scone? I promise, once you taste the pastries, made with great care by wife-owner Suraiya Khan, and the coffee imported from various regions by husband-owner Masoom Khan, you will forget all about the good folks selling cremation at a reasonable price a couple doors down. Café Silva is owned by Lakewood residents and named for the littlest Khan, Nurah Silva, age 2. The café, which also serves lunch, is right on the White Rock Trail and directly across the street from Moss Haven Park. They even sell protein bars and gels for nutrition-craving runners and cyclists who drop in. They have a nice big window overlooking the trail and Royal Oaks

golf course. Suraiya says she hopes to build a patio someday. While I was there for a June photo shoot, I ordered a dark coffee, remarking “I need all the caffeine I can get today!” That’s when these coffee experts filled me in on a secret that rocked my stimulant-dependent universe: Dark coffee typically has less caffeine than light coffee. What? Did a little research (Googling) and sure enough, they are right. Not that I doubted them.

Babb 8499 Greenville Avenue, 214.267.9836

Company Café on the Katy Trail

—Christina Hughes

This little place with a big patio overlooking the Katy Trail serves up local, organic, fresh fare, but we aren’t talking just veggies or dainty salads or dull gluten-free breads. No. Here you are going to find thick, juicy steaks and mashed potatoes and what is rumored to be the best chicken fried steak around (it is gluten free, but you’d never know it). Company Café opens at 7 a.m. Saturdays for breakfast, which was my first experience. I tried the Veggie RX, a fresh and light open-faced three egg cage-free omelet layered with black beans and sautéed vegetables and organic salsa ($9), but I did sneak in a few bites of my buddy’s silver dollar buttermilk pancakes (12 for $6). They were fluffy and moist and soaked up that real maple syrup like a delicious sponge. Drink selections include kombucha tea, coconut water and French press coffee.

—Christina Hughes Babb

THERE ARE TWO LOCATIONS: 2217 Greenville Avenue (214.827.2233) and 3136 Routh (214.468.8721), which is the Katy Trail location.

pet cover contest

Cafe Silva Photo by Mark Davis

PHOTO BY ROBERT BUNCH

THIS PAGE: A male, or drake, mallard’s vibrant plumage — its iridescent green head, bright yellow bill and trafficstopping orange feet — is instantly recognizable. This one is flying over the water near Sunset Bay.

Wild things

You make our heart sing

he retired photographer hasn’t cleaned his kitchen this week. He’s been too busy taking pictures. After more than 30 years as a professional working for newspapers and magazines, including nearly 20 years shooting for the Advocate, Robert Bunch, a 60-something Vietnam veteran, quit photography for pay and instead took it up as a hobby.

Now he treks to White Rock Lake on an almost-daily basis (except in mid-summer, he says, when “it is too friggin’ hot”).

His preoccupation works in our favor, because after about a year and a half of this, Bunch agreed to share his best photos.

Here is a look at White Rock through the eyes of a no-nonsense nature lover.>>

Story Christina Hughes Babb | Photos Robert Bunch

John Whiteside, of Team Whiteside-Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage is a proud sponsor of the White Rock Wildlife Collection

LEFT: Photographer Robert Bunch, a bit of a wild thing himself, spends his mornings at White Rock Lake. Photo by Can Türkyilmaz

I go out there in the morning usually Sunset Bay because that’s a hotspot … I spend about three hours shooting pictures and spend about three hours editing them and putting them on my website. Then if I feel like it, I go back in the afternoon and shoot for a couple more hours. It’s almost like a full-time job. I mean, I’ve neglected cleaning the house; I spend all my time on this. I just love it, man.

Photographer Robert Bunch

FAR LEFT: A great blue heron reflects while wading in Sunset Bay waters.

LEFT: “The black-bellied whistling duck is probably one of the rarest ducks I’ve seen out there,” Bunch says. “That’s the only time I’ve seen one show up.”

ABOVE: “It’s not a jackrabbit,” Bunch says when we mistakenly call it that. “That’s a cottontail. Jackrabbits are taller and rangier. This is a little furry Easter bunny-type rabbit.”

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP:

An Eastern kingbird snags a delicious dragonfly for dinner. “This is taken right up at Winfrey Point, on the hill,” Bunch says.

Ducklings line up for a photo. “Right after I took this, that one near the middle who is a little taller than the rest of them stood up and started flapping his wings,” Bunch says. “And they are so little. You just can’t believe how little they are, man.”

“My coyote pictures all have an asterisk by them,” Bunch says, “because you aren’t really sure if they are full-blooded coyote or part-dog, part-coyote. This one’s a little doggy-looking, in my opinion.”

A tricolored heron puts on a show. “This is a great-looking bird here. I took this at Sunset Bay. He was about five feet off the shore.”

TOP LEFT: A baby Baltimore oriole begs its momma for food. Robert says he was thrilled to find the nest of orioles, which is a very rare find at White Rock Lake.

FAR BOTTOM LEFT: Two white pelicans go at it.

LEFT: Bunch spotted this bobcat near Sunset Bay, at the southeast side of White Rock Lake. “He was there for a few seconds and then he disappeared,” Bunch says.

Trapped!

It’s a warm spring morning and photographer Robert Bunch is doing what he loves most — shooting images of birds and other life near White Rock’s Sunset Bay, located on the southeast side of the pond.

A teacher and a bunch of young students are standing nearby, and the teacher says to Bunch, “Is that a bird out there?”

Bunch squints into the sunlight, through tree branches, and sees a long wing sticking straight up into the air. Bunch knew the bird was stuck, but it was across the water in impenetrable muck, he says.

However, Bunch, a bird enthusiast, couldn’t sit back and let the animal suffer.

“I just can’t watch a creature in trouble without doing something, you know?”

So he called a friend who directed him to Kathy Rogers, who owns the Rogers Wildlife Rehab Center.

Rogers was tied up with errands for the next couple of hours, but agreed to help if Bunch would hold tight, and if he could figure out a way to get her canoe to White Rock Lake.

“I waited a couple hours, then drove out there, and we loaded the canoe in my truck and drove back to the lake.”

Rogers, an assistant and Bunch piled into the tiny canoe and set out after the trapped black-crowned night heron.

“The boat was real wobbly. I took an old camera and lens because I didn’t know if I was going to fall in. So we got out there, and there was the bird. You could see how his wing was caught up there. Turns out it was caught on a kite string. Someone’s kite had gotten away, and it was just draped over those trees. It tried to get away, and that string got tighter and tighter.

“[Rogers] reached for the bird it bit her and drew blood ... she cut it free and carried it back to the boat. We paddled back, and she held that bird between her knees. She said he needed to be checked out real closely.”

Rogers took the injured bird back to the rehab center and fixed him up. A few days later, she invited Bunch to join her for the heron’s release back into the wild.

Bunch, of course, brought his camera to capture the magical moment.

—Christina Hughes Babb

Photos by Robert Bunch

Astute observers and a dedicated volunteer give a doomed bird a second chance

HIGH-IMPACT SPORT

How name and route changes affect the former White Rock Marathon, and the marathon’s effect on the city

Story by Christina Hughes Babb | Photos by Benjamin Hager

More than 40 years ago, fewer than 100 people ran the first White Rock Marathon, a 26.2-mile race that circled the lake a couple of times.

Over the years, the marathon has increased in popularity, blossoming into an event that accommodates 22,000 participants, transverses multiple neighborhoods, boosts the Dallas economy nearly $9 million per year and brings in charity funds also in the millions.

Growth doesn’t come without complications, however. From traffic issues to runners’ complaints to resistance to change, those associated with the marathon have seen their share of conflict.

For example, the race’s board of directors in May announced that the event was rebranding and would henceforth be the Dallas Marathon. The name change came on the heels of a location change from Fair Park to Downtown.

Organizers say the evolution is nec-

essary in order to take the race to the next level. A top-tier marathon would be a financial boon to the city, organizers say, but big events bring logistical burdens. And not everyone thinks this historic race needs to evolve.

Reasons for the name change

There is some confusion about marathons in Dallas. Advocatemag.com commenters frequently mention the many marathons at White Rock and in East Dallas neighborhoods. However, there are only two sanctioned marathons in Dallas each year: the Big D Marathon in the spring and the White Rock Marathon (now Dallas Marathon) in the fall. There are many other races, such as the Dallas Rock ‘n’ Roll half-marathon (March) and the Dallas Running Club half-marathon (November) and the Hot Chocolate 10k (December), but only two marathons.

Besides mileage, what is the differ-

ence? Typically, people will not travel to run a 10k or even a half marathon. In contrast, vacations often are planned around running a destination marathon.

One of the reasons for the name change is to avoid more future “lumping together,” says executive director of the Dallas Marathon Marcus Grunewald.

“From a strategic point, if we don’t use Dallas Marathon, inevitably someone will come along and start the Dallas Marathon. We want to be the destination marathon in Dallas. We own the rights to both Dallas Marathon and White Rock Marathon now, so we will avoid potential confusion there.”

In order to pull off the marathon, Grunewald and his team need the support of many city departments, as well as DART and local churches and businesses. The idea for changing the name came as the group discussed potential course changes with city staffers, says Grunewald, who ran his first marathon at White Rock in 1984, and ran another nine times before an injury kept him from running again. Then he became the race’s director.

“We met with the city manager, and we talked about running the course by city milestones — the Arts District, the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge — and we got to thinking that this is bigger than White Rock Lake now. In fact, the half marathon doesn’t even see the lake. That’s where the process of changing it to Dallas Marathon started,” he says.

Some are disturbed by the decision to change the name.

“Dallas has no soul,” one Advocate reader writes on advocatemag.com about the name change. “It always is trying to be something else, some other city. Always on to the next shiny new thing.”

The name change signals a lack of pride in the marathon, says neighborhood runner David Renfro.

“In order for the marathon to be on the same level as New York, Chicago or Boston, the people of Dallas need to be proud of the marathon and show support for the race. Do you think the day after Boston people are complaining about traffic and not being able to get out of their driveways? No way.

“Here most people don’t even know about the marathon and are surprised when roads close, then they write into the newspaper and try and see what they can do to have the race canceled for next year. People here just don’t get it.”

Renfro, who has run three White Rock Marathons, says he believes the organizers took a step backward with the name change.

Assessing the needs of a person during the early stages of Alzheimer’s can be difficult. We’re here to help. Villages of Lake Highlands offers Alzheimer’s Support Groups and family nights where you can learn from other families coping with the effects of memory loss. We also offer several educational programs for family members as well as complimentary sitter service for your loved one while you are here.

Mockingbird Swim The Little Gym Pinot’s Palette

Change to the name, logo and course of our city’s oldest and largest running event could impact neighborhood residents as well as runners.

“I’m proud of the lake, and ‘Dallas Marathon’ doesn’t have the same feel. It’s not as personal to the city. One less thing to be proud of when it comes to this race.”

Others figure splitting hairs over a name is pointless while we could be arguing over more important things, such as the course. “I don’t think the name change will hurt anything; however, the course I detest,” White Rock Running Co-op member Michael Farrell says. “The long stretch of Mockingbird looks to be horrible. I will run since it is local, but I would not travel to this kind of course.”

The course

Always 26.2 miles, the marathon course has changed several times since its first run around and around White Rock Lake. It has seen starts at City Hall, Victory Park and Fair Park, and Dec. 9, it will return to a Downtown start. Every time the board makes a change, Grunewald says, it’s to make the race better. The changes have been based on both feedback from runners and requirements of the city, he says.

“The goal is to make this a better, not even necessarily bigger, experience for the runners.”

The city also receives feedback from residents and businesses, and sometimes changes are based on those comments, Grunewald says.

Planning the marathon course is an ordeal. First the board must submit an application to the office of special events. That department works as an umbrella over the other departments.

“Because of our size, police, DART, parks and recreation, traffic … we need approval from practically every city department,” Grunewald says.

The events office alerts each department, and then the marathon staff meets face-toface with all of the involved departments to answer questions. (That session, for the 2012 race, had not happened at time of publication.)

Usually the official permit doesn’t arrive until weeks or days before the race, he says.

“Inevitably one department will always come up with objection at the last minute,” he says.

Marathon representatives meet with every church affected by the race. Last year, there were 20 along the route, and this year there are more. They also visit every business that is open Sunday mornings and ev-

ery neighborhood association that might be impacted, Grunewald says.

Wouldn’t it be easier to just leave the course as is?

It would be simpler, he says, but there is still room for improvement.

“We have been aiming to get back to a Downtown start,” he says, adding that the city requested it. “It didn’t work the last two years, but now, with much of the construction wrapped up, it does.”

Will the starting point stay put this time? Hopefully, he says.

“But we don’t know yet what kind of feedback we will get after this race.”

It has been four years since the city manager, Mary Suhm, has met with marathon board members to discuss the event. Grunewald says the group has tried to set up such a meeting, but it wasn’t until this year it happened, perhaps because city officials now appreciate the race as an event that could boost tourism.

“A few years ago, we didn’t have 22,000 runners. We were not where we are now.”

Even if the city has not always fully embraced the marathon over the last four decades, it’s good to have the support now, Grunewald says. In addition to having city resources to put on the event, the city helps promote the marathon by placing Dallas

Marathon information in Convention Visitors Bureau tourism materials. This will help promote the marathon nationally and internationally, Grunewald says.

I’m not a runner, so why should I care?

The New York City Marathon last November brought in some $350 million for the city, Mayor Michael Bloomberg told the press. Bloomberg gushes as he talks about the “magic of marathon day — the miles and miles of cheering spectators, the thrill of the race and the inspiring stories of the participants, the incredible hard work of thousands of volunteers who help make everything tick.”

If that’s the reach, Dallas has a long way to go, but New York is a good example of the marathon’s potential as both a moneymaker and a bonding experience for an entire city.

The Dallas Marathon last year boosted overall economic activity in the city by $8.7 million, according to a economic and fiscal study of the 2011 White Rock Marathon by two professors at SMU Cox School of Business. Spending by non-local race entrants and their guests is the most significant factor, according to the report. “When runners come to town for the race, they stay in the city for an average of 1.62 days and often bring companions with them. While in town, they spend money for lodging, meals, transportation, retail and entertainment.”

Additionally, the marathon employed 101 workers, and the city reaped an additional $264,000 in tax receipts. Countywide, the White Rock Marathon surpassed $11 million and supported 120 jobs, both full-time and seasonal.

Important to runners and non-runners alike is the marathon’s annual donation to the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for children. Earlier this year, the White Rock Marathon presented a check for $1 million to the organization that treats sick children free of charge. Since adopting the hospital as a beneficiary, the marathon has donated $2.8 million. Some say the course and name change are irrelevant when compared to the partnership with the hospital.

“The purpose of the now Dallas Marathon is to raise money for the benefit of the families and sick children of the Scottish Rite,” says Paul Agruso, a White Rock Running Co-op and Dallas Running Club member who plans to run the 2012 Dallas Marathon.

“In order for the marathon to be on the same level as New York, Chicago or Boston, the people of Dallas need to be proud of the marathon and show support for the race.”

WHAT ADVOCATE READERS THINK OF THE CHANGES

WHERE BORING BECOMES BEAUTIFUL!

I am devastated that they changed the name from White Rock to Dallas Marathon, think they sold their soul, and might stop supporting the event because of it.

I will miss “The Rock” but care more about the course and operations of the race.

I don’t like the changes, but I’ll get used to it.

I have faith that the race organizers/board are doing what they need to do to make this a better, more financially-impactful event, therefore I support most of the changes.

I don’t care and, in fact, I wish the marathon would disappear from the neighborhood altogether so I can go to brunch on Dec. 9.

“The marathon is a nonprofit organization that wrote a $1 million check … I think that is something people lose sight of in this whole discussion or disgust generated from the name change. If they think they can raise more money for the Scottish Rite by changing the name, then I am willing to give them the benefit of the doubt to try it.”

In addition, a better race can boost the city’s image, according to the SMU report.

“The race receives wide local and national media coverage. Though impossible to quantify, the value of this publicity is substantial, and it generates a sizeable amount of positive PR for the city and the region.”

“Where my child’s smile is concerned, I want the best. Any father would feel the same.”

— Jason,

38

Whether you’re considering clear aligners, retainers or today’s braces, an orthodontist is the smart choice. Orthodontists are specialists in straightening teeth and aligning your bite. They have two to three years of education beyond dental school. So they’re experts at helping you get a great smile – that feels great, too.

For the Girl Scouts’ Centennial Exhibition at the 2012 State Fair of Texas in the historic Hall of State!

Indulge in a Fried Samoa, be part of a virtual camp, walk through a life-sized cookie box and be amazed by 100 years of Girl Scouting!

DALLAS, TEXAS statefair girlscouts.com

An oasis in the desert

The city’s newest library serves one of our most downtrodden neighborhoods

Jasmine Sellers curls her legs beneath her in a big white chair at White Rock Hills Branch Library and opens the “Goosebumps” book she’s reading. Maybe it’s not the most challenging material, but the 11-year-old Gaston Middle School student is putting her gray matter to work this summer instead of letting her brain turn to mush.

Sellers’s mom, Joanne, says keeping her kids interested in reading and academics is easier now that there’s a library so close to home. And it’s a really nice one, too.

The $8 million White Rock Hills Branch Library opened last month, more than 10 years after it was first envisioned. The Ferguson Road Initiative pushed for the library, paid for with 2003 and 2006 city bond money, to serve what the initiative’s Vikki Martin calls “forgotten far East Dallas.”

Story by Rachel Stone | Photos by Danny Fulgencio

Vikki Martin of Ferguson Road Initiative, left, and White Rock Hills library branch manager Sandra King, right, sit in the new library. It took about 10 years and $8 million to build.

Photo by Danny Fulgencio

That is the area east of the mansions of Forest Hills, and west of Interstate 30. In this neighborhood, poverty, violence, drug abuse and prostitution are common. Most residents live in the neighborhood’s 60 apartment complexes, and 13 percent live below the poverty level.

At Lang Middle School, less than two miles from the library, students are learning half a block away from an apartment complex whose owner has described it as “a shooting gallery,” Martin says. Half a mile from the school is Tiger Cabaret and its neighbor, the Lamplighter Motel.

A grand opening celebration for the White Rock Hills Branch Library included a parade with neighborhood residents. Photos by Amber Plumley

“How can you expect success with an environment like that?” Martin asks.

Martin’s goal, since founding the Ferguson Road Initiative in 1991, has been to improve the neighborhood for families and children. There have been many successes, including improvements at Bayles Elementary School and St. Francis Park. The new library is a gleaming example of how neighbors can pull together to gain amenities for their neighborhood.

Becki Bacski recently retired after 17 years as librarian at Bayles. She says the library serves that school, as well as Truett Elementary and the academically unacceptable Conner and Kiest elementary schools.

“It’s a marvelous institution, of course. It’s so close to all of those schools,” she says. “All of those students, especially in the summertime, can have access to all of the programs and books and be able to go and get on the computers.”

Libraries are not just for books anymore. White Rock Hills offers computer stations, DVD rentals and a community meeting room, among other amenities.

Claremont neighborhood resident Veronica Bailey’s 12-year-old daughter is “an avid reader,” she says, and the new library is within walking distance of their house.

“The library means so much because it will give people more to do,” she says. “It’s somewhere to go, and it doesn’t cost anything. Maybe it will help parents with their teenagers.”

Vicki Martin’s dream is that one day, a brand new recreation center will open in her neighborhood. “It’s going to happen,” she says. “If it kills me, it’s going to happen.”

Even though the city purchased land for the new rec center on Ferguson years ago, it is many millions of dollars away from becoming reality. But Martin sees the library as proof that it can and will happen.

“And it’s beautiful,” Bailey says of the library. “Oh, my gosh, it’s so beautiful.”

city hall

City Manager Mary Suhm’s recommendations for a $600 million bond package include constructing 47 miles of bike lanes. Suhm also recommends upgrading six miles of roadway to make “complete streets” to serve pedestrians, cyclists and motorists equally. Almost $334 million of the package would be spent on flood control improvements, most of that in the Baylor hospital area, which is plagued with flooding problems. About $55 million would go to economic development. City council is expected to vote on the bond package in August. If approved, Dallas residents would vote on the bond package in November’s general election.

community

White Rock Paddle is open now through October, offering paddling lessons on the lake. Rentals of single and tandem kayaks run $15 an hour or $55-$65 a day. For information, visit whiterockpaddle.com.

The White Rock Home Tour reports that about 1,500 people attended in April, raising almost $24,000 for programs at Hexter Elementary.

education

Piers Christian, a 2012 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School, received the Eric Louis Brown Memorial Scholarship. The award honors an outstanding Dallas ISD student-athlete with a $5,000 scholarship. Christian will attend the University of Kansas as a walk-on football player.He plans to major in pharmacy.

Beverly Hirsch, the longtime choir teacher and musical director at J.L. Long Middle School, won the Rotary Club of Dallas Outstanding Teacher Award for Service Above Self. The $2,500 annual awards honor three public school teachers whose performances go beyond their job descriptions. They must also perform activities that benefit disadvantaged or at-risk students as well as show innovation and creativity in the classroom.

people

Neighborhood resident Vivian Castleberry celebrated her 90th birthday with the Dallas Women’s Foundation. Castleberry was a journalist, humanitarian, women’s rights leader, diplomat, author and teacher. She is a founder of the Dallas Women’s Foundation and has been called the godmother of the women’s rights movement in Dallas.

HAVE AN ITEM TO BE FEATURED?

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

BUSINESS BUZZ

The lowdown on what’s up with neighborhood businesses

Send business news tips to LIVELOCAL@ADVOCATEMAG.COM

What’s new on Henderson

A new salon has opened on the corner of Henderson and Bonita in the pink house built in 1923. “There were so many challenges, but we overcame them,” says Glitz Salon owner Debi Gidner. “We have converted the pink house into a glamorous hair salon.” The salon specializes in the Organic Color, Curl and Control systems line, which does not use ammonia and is preferred by those who suffer from allergies.

Boutique catering company The Hospitality Sweet will provide sweets for London Cafe inside the new Timothy Oulton design store at Central and Henderson.

Sisters Kristen Adams Scott and Meghan Adams, who own Hospitality Sweet, specialize in sweets and party food, plus wedding cakes, full catering and boxed lunches for meetings. Timothy Oulton opened in the former Potter Art Metal Studios building last month. It is the Londonbased designer’s first Texas store.

Art is Art offers design consultation with purchase

Art consignment store Art is Art now offers free in-home, professional design advice with the purchase of artwork valued at $500 or more. “We’re hoping to reach out to local people that definitely want local, modern, original art from our store but need a little help

More business bits

with placement,” says co-owner Carrie Jepsen. Co-owner and professional designer Renata Holder performs the design consultations.

Good 2 Go Taco/Barcadia owners open Acme F&B

A dream team of owners — Colleen O’Hare and Jeana Johnson of Good 2 Go Taco and Brooke Humphries and Brianna Larson of Barcadia — have opened a casual, fine dining restaurant at McKinney and Monticello. Described as “come-asyou-are fine dining,” Acme F&B features New American cuisine with a focus on seasonal, sustainable and local ingredients. The bar features 24 beers on tap, 26 wines by the glass and a specialty cocktail list.

1 The Sunflower store on North Henderson will become SproutsFarmersMarket in August, as Sprouts acquired the grocery chain in May.

2 Lakewood residents Masoom and Suraiya Khan recently celebrated the oneyear anniversary of their coffeehouse, Café Silva, located at Greenville and Royal.

3 Taco Joint has opened its second location at Mockingbird and Abrams. 4 Whole Earth Provision Company recently presented a check for $30,000 to benefit Texas State Parks at the TexasParksandWildlifeCommission meeting. The donation came from a statewide, in-store promotion in April as well as proceeds from the Banff Mountain Film Festival. 5 The Bicycle Café at West Lawther and Northwest Highway, which opened only a few months ago, is up for sale 6 MedallionCenter at Northwest Highway and Abrams recently celebrated its 50th anniversary.

Glitz Salon

Spanish

7900 Lovers Ln. / 214.363.9391 stchristophersmontessori.com

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

The Big Idea: How local women turned passions into professions

Very few can say they are passionate about their work, which is why the stories featured in these pages are so inspirtransformed them into successful careers.

“I love what I do; I truly love what I do,” says Karen Dittmar of Willie and Coote Salon. “It’s like being an artist every day.” After more than 10 years styling hair, Karen found herself inspired by a vintage photograph of her mother and aunt (the salon is named after the infamous duo). “It looked like they were having so much fun, and I wanted to have a salon that was fun and laid-back and different.”

She began in Deep Ellum, but eventually moved to Lakewood where she strove to cultivate a grass-roots neighborhood feeling. “I wanted to be where we could get involved in the local scene, where all the stylists could live in the neighborhood, and where people could just hang out,” Dittmar says. Several years later, she has succeeded. “We have people who come here in their pajamas, with their coffee in the morning and get their hair cut,” she says, with unmistakable pride.

Nearby, local dentist Dr. Kelli Slate turned her passion into a reality by returning to school to become a dentist. Now an established professional, Dr. Slate advises “Don’t be afraid to advertise. It’s critical to

THE BIG IDEA 67 · SHIFTING GEARS 72 · SUCCESS STORIES 77 · THEGREATDIVIDE 81

“I love what I do; I truly love what I do”

– KAREN DITTMAROF WILLIEAND COOTE SALON

Dr. Kelli Slate turned her passion into a reality by returning to school to become a dentist.

get your name out there.” Dr. Slate says she was grateful to have solid family support when she returned to school, which is one path to success, but not the only path.

Dr. Debbie Shirico of Total Hearing Care found her life’s work during a summer gig at Lion’s Camp for Crippled Children. “I fell in love with some of the deaf children there,” she says. “I decided I wanted to work with deaf kids, so I went in sign language and enjoyed working with deaf kids and understanding deaf culture. “It’s like a whole world of its own. Learning how the deaf think and interact is like landing on a new island in another country.” Her career path took her through diagnostic testing and ultimately led her to hearing aids.

“I love helping people hear and putting a smile on their to take a chance on acquiring an existing hearing aid business

With her passion for East Dallas, Elizabeth gives you solutions to all of your real estate needs

Extensive knowledge of market trends and broad-based marketing strategies coupled with a designer’s eye, gives her the ability to recognize the potential in every house.

Mast provides you with more.

“I love helping people hear and putting a smile on their face.”

– DR. DEBBIE SHIRICO, OWNER TOTAL HEARING

–Debbie Schirico, Au.D

214.789.9187

We are a fitness-based yoga studio for all levels and offer five different hot yoga classes in 30, 60 and 90 minute time segments and an introductory series to help people get started. We have been open for over two years and Ashley says, “We continue to be excited about the overwhelming community support and participation in the studio!” Ashley and Allie believe the best is yet to come in terms of more people incorporating yoga into their lives. And they are excited to be the neighborhood studio to support people from class number one to a life-long practice.

75206 214.764.2119x113

“I would always look at old houses on the side of the highway and envision them remodeled.”

– VICKI WHITE, REALTOR

Ashley Sells and Allie Buck-Strickler Co-Owners, Sunstone Yoga

people sell homes.” She acquired an inventory of furniture and staged for all price ranges, including a $3 million dollar home on Lawther. Eventually she was ready for a new challenge and committed to getting her real estate license. Now she works at the business she loves from all angles and attributes her success to her strong work ethic.

Local Realtor and business owner Elizabeth Mast approached her real estate business from a different direction. Ten years ago she opened the eclectic boutique Talulah Belle in Lakewood, which she considers her “hobby,” because it was her way of exercising creativity outside of her 26-year career in finance. “I decided I really wanted to stay in the community and the neighborhood more,” Mast says, explaining why she chose to leave finance behind. “Now, in real estate I can leverage all of my negotiation skills and management skills that I took from finance, and my flair for design from the store, and all of the relationships with vendors and designers. I’m not only selling houses, but I’m staging and consulting, which really drives how

quickly you can sell the house.” How quickly? Mast has only been in the business for a couple of months and has already closed her first deal.

Some women are just born entrepreneurs. Shea BootheWood of TrueBeautyRx in Lakewood can’t seem to stop starting new ventures. In January she opened a second shop called 2•shea Boutique (pronounced like the French “touché”). Unlike her first shop, which focuses completely on skin care, 2•shea Boutique has allowed Boothe-Wood to widen her range. “We have a spa treatment room at 2•shea Boutique,” Boothe-Wood says, “but I’ve expanded to carry my own clothing label as well. My degree is in apparel design, so this is my opportunity after 20-plus years to use my education and passion.” Boothe-Wood carries additional clothing lines by local designers, and she hopes to expand soon and feature local artists as well. “The theme of 2•shea Boutique is fashion, beauty and art,” Boothe-Wood says. “Everything beautiful under one roof.”

“If you love what you’re doing, it’s not really work. I feel that way — I love getting up in the morning, and I love what I do, and I love who I see.

Every day’s a new challenge.”

– SHEA BOOTHE-WOOD, OWNER of 2•shea Boutique and trueBeautyrx

Shifting Gears: How to change careers

There was a time when a career change seemed like a radical decision, but over the past decade changes in technology and economics have transformed the landscape. Whether by choice or necessity, career changes are more common — and more desirable — than they used to be.

Local business owner Meghan Adams trained to be a broadcast journalist, lived in Washington, D.C., worked on “Nightline,” and even interned at the White House. It was an exciting beginning, but soon family pressures and several relocations took their toll. When she found herself back in Texas and closer to her family, she brainstormed with her sister, and soon the two opened a business: The Hospitality Sweet.

“We started our business right after we each had our first baby, so we could stay home with them and still do something creative,” says Adams, who has always enjoyed cooking. She thought there might be some profit in offering casseroles to order, but soon the business gravitated toward sweets. “Cakes, cookies, cupcakes, cake balls — and we also do hors d’oeuvres and box lunches.” This past year, when Dr. Phil turned 60, the sisters flew to Beverly Hills to make a special delivery. “We did a thousand cake balls for him,” Adams says.

Until recently, customers have picked up orders from Adams’ home, but this year the business has set up shop in London Café

inside Timothy Oulton at Potter Square. Although they still take special orders, Adams says, “Now people will be able to come into the store and buy our sweets, rather than having to order a day ahead.”

Another local businesswoman who adjusted her work for her family life, Stacy Huston worked for 16 years in banking before she found her career of choice. When her daughter was born, she decided to try her own business, although the business she chose surprised her friends. She opened a Handyman Matters franchise. “People who know me know I’m not handy,” Huston says. “But I was just dissatisfied with the type of people that had been working on our home. It might sound crazy, but I thought I could be the one to change that for East Dallas.” You might expect Huston’s customers to be surprised that the business is owned by a woman, but she says that rarely happens. “The majority of people that hire us are women,” she says. “It makes logical sense. When something’s broken, they’re the ones who take care of it.”

For Willie and Coote’s Theresa Linson, a software and web designer, all it took to spark a career change was noticing that her friend’s Lakewood beauty salon had a lot of untapped potential. “I saw a huge opportunity for growth, and that’s what I like doing in business — taking something and making it huge,” Linson says. Hair stylist Karen Dittmar, who started the business, is free to

manage the salon operations, while Linson handles the business side. And the result has been a successful partnership; the team recently opened a second location in Carrollton.

Lakewood Realtor Marissa Fontanez worked in corporateferent.” Fontanez has been a Realtor for seven years, and her favorite part of the job is the keys after a purchase, or that look of relief when they can say ‘Sold!’ and move on.”

For those who are interested in a career change, local Realtor Scott Carlson suggests for someone who wants a career that revolves around their family, but also supports their need and their desire to work and bring home an income,” Carlson says. He also points out that the work can be satisfying for death, divorce — all these life challenges or transformations — -

says Dr. Lynne Roberts, who went on to develop a pediatric dermatology program at UT Southwestern and Children’s Medicalmatology.”

Sometimes a career change comes after a due to her own growth and changes in her in-

lis had a successful, award-winning career as a journalist before becoming a health and

hard-charging person,” Ellis says. However, her drive for success about making a few simple changes that will simply change your life. Choices we make today will affect us years from now, so let’s get started.”

“Choices we make today will affect us years from now, so let’s get started.”

– B.J. E LLIS , P LANET V ITALITY

Ashley CoxDani

HannaEdie GreenBess

DicksonBrenda Williams

Martha VeraLori VanMeter

Natalie AlfreyJane Ann NelsonRita Davis

Veronica Boxley

Vicki White

Juliette Bouchard

Kathy Harris

Julia Bristow

Britt Lopez

Action items if you’re considering a career change:

• Assess your likes and dislikes. What do you really enjoy at work and at home? What excites you and energizes you?

• Research careers. Once you’ve identified your passions, look into careers that are related. The U.S. Department of Labor has a helpful website called O*Net Online (onetonline.org)

• List your transferable skills. Stay-at-home moms, for example, are amazing at multi-tasking, among other skills. Every occupation calls upon an array of skills that you may not have identified yet.

• Consider training and education. If you’re interested in a career that requires more training, go ahead and take a course. You will gain valuable insight, and you’ll be closer to deciding whether or not to continue in the new field.

• Networking. Often, job leads come from people you know or people you haven’t met yet. Networking is one of the most powerful jobsearch tools you can use.

Source: Quintessential Careers (quintcareers.com)

Nancy Johnson. Moving You Forward...

Nancy Johnson is ranked as one of Dallas’ Top 20 Realtors.

Nancy is known for specializing in East Dallas, Lakewood, Park Cities, Preston Hollow and surrounding areas. She has the best current, past and present market knowledge available. Let Nancy put her high level of expertise, personal service and dedication to work in your favor.

Success Stories: Tips for women in business

Many women have toyed with the idea of starting their own businesses, but how do you know when the time is right? And once established, how do you ensure triumph? These local businesswomen have paved the way and share their secrets to success.

Established Lakewood dentist Dr. Kelli Slate says she knew it was time to open her own practice when she realized she wanted more stability in the workplace. Slate, who was a hygienist at the time, found herself thinking she could do her boss’s job as well or better than he did. “That light bulb went off in my head,” Slate says. “So at age 32, I went back to four more years of college and furthered my education in my field and became a dentist. I would encourage women to do that, if you reach that point in your career.” After dental school, she bought an existing practice and made her dreams come true.

For local business owner Lorraine Wire of Hance Paint and Body, the circumstances were quite different. In 2001, five years

Willie & Coote Aveda Salon LAKEWOOD’S OWN AVEDA SALON

Karen Dittmar and Theresa Linson, owners of Lakewood’s Willie & Coote Salon, love what they do. With more than 20 years experience in the salon industry, including training under some of Dallas’ and London’s most brilliant hair dressers, Dittmar enjoys practicing and sharing her knowledge of AVEDA hair color. Linson, whose background lies in computers and marketing, oversees the business side of the salon and is able to contribute a unique perspective to the industry. The collective skill set of these two women has proven to be a successful combination, resulting in a full service AVEDA hair salon with a friendly neighborhood atmosphere. They have recently opened their second location in North Carrollton. Dittmar and Linson make sure each guest who enters either Willie & Coote Salon has a wonderful experience that is unlike that of any ordinary salon.

Willie & Coote Aveda Salon

2303 Abrams Rd. Dallas, TX 75214

214.887.8647

willieandcoote.com

after she and her husband relocated to Dallas, Wire unexpectedly found herself a widow and sole owner of the auto shop. “I didn’t have a choice about being in this career,” Wire says. “This business was doing well at the time, and I knew I could continue doing it.” With the help of her employees and a strong faith, Wire persevered.

“I grew up very underprivileged,” says Wire, who is from North Carolina. “If you really knew my background, and what all I have accomplished and done, it’s an amazing story. But I didn’t do it on my own. Everything I’ve had and done has been by the grace of God.” Wire also credits her employees. “They business.”

Another factor in Wire’s success is her strong service ethic. and that they want to come back to this shop. You know, everybody needs a doctor and a hairdresser, and so forth. Eventually, most people are going to need a good body shop,” she says, with an optimistic smile.

For several East Dallas businesswomen, community involvement has played an important role in their success. Community service is an excellent way to be visible to prospective clients and also make a positive impact. Mary Pat Coco of Ebby Halliday says this philosophy is handed down from the founder of the two free community events: a free paper-shredding event at an

which ran through about five tons of paper,” Coco says. Clearly there’s a demand for this service in the community.

Duke Jimerson, General Manager of Allie Beth Allman, credits the success of their women Realtors to strong service, both in the community and in the workplace. “We are a boutique company that does major business, so we can treat our customers and clients individually,” says Jimerson. “Our Realtors are businesswomen, but they’re also the women you see in the grocery line, the car pool line and volunteering in the community. They make that same difference in the real estate market.”

Nancy Johnson of Dave Perry Miller is another firm believer in the power of close ties to the neighborhood. “I’m part of the life journey people take,” she says, because changes of residence tend to happen during life turning points.” Johnson notes that Realtors spend a lot of time in the car with someone or sitting at their kitchen table. “You get to know people, and you know them pretty intimately. For me, that’s rewarding.” She also attributes her success to straight talk with clients, which can be a challenge when emotions run high. “I

try not to tell people only what they want to hear, but what I believe to be true.” Honesty and concern for her clients have been paramount in Johnson’s successful real estate career.

For Dr. Nirmala Marneni of Oak Heights Dental, education is the key to success. She advocates that women take continuing education to stay current in their field. “I always envisioned being a dentist,” says Marneni, who credits her success to diligent planning, discipline and dedication to her dream. “As a result, today I own a business,” she says, and her pride of ownership is evident.

What if you happened to start your business on September 10, 2001, one day before 9/11? Kelly Harris, who owns her Farmers Insurance office, had that experience. “I got my insurance license the first week of that September,” Harris says. “It was definitely interesting timing.” In addition, at that time the insurance industry was trying to find solutions to the black mold debacle. How did Harris’s office survive the turmoil? “We found other areas to focus on,” she says. “A lot of agents didn’t make it through that time. But we looked beyond that.”

Here’s what a few of her clients had to say:

“Working with Vicki was amazing. She gave me great suggestions on renovations, including flooring, paint color and style. She knew the market very well and her knowledge of the neighborhood was essential for us to make the right updates and pricing correctly.”

— Highland Park resident

“From developing and executing your brilliant marketing strategies based on solid research, to the expert photography and professional staging…. I have never worked with a realtor as dedicated and detail-oriented as you and your team.”

— Forest Hills resident

Call

“My success has been built on a reputation for straight talk, hard work, personal attention, knowledge of the market, and most importantly, a caring spirit.”

– N ANCY J OHNSON , R EALTOR

The Great Divide: Maintaining

Due to the demands of children and home life, women

Meghan Adams, owner of The Hospitality Sweet, baking with her daughters.

make sure that all of my guys were going to be working all day Friday and Saturday. If I get them enough on the schedule, -

liday’s Kristen Summers, she soon learned that her clients respected her schedule, if she set boundaries around her home life. “My husband and noticed that all of our friends came to me for advice on

it would be good for you to pursue it.’ So I took his suggestion, thinking it would just be a part-time thing. Once I got involved, I fell in

Summers, who has two children, had trouble balanc-

know up front that they are important to me, but my God and my family are very important too, and I will always set aside time for

but enhanced it.

Scott Carlson, owner of Scott Carlson Real Estate, can attest to the impressive balancing act performed by most women. “Women are great at multi-tasking, because they take care of the he says. “But I think it’s a challenge for women to remember

Carlson, who recruits many women associates, is a yogi who advocates restorative activities such as meditation.

Wellness and Vitality Coach

B.J. Ellis of Planet Vitality warns, “If you ignore your health long enough, it will go

Ellis found herself overweight, pre-diabetic and taking multiple medications for high blood pressure. “It wasn’t until I literally got deathly ill that I decided it was time to take charge of

eaten healthier, gotten more rest and am passionate about edu-

I didn’t realize how much becoming a mother would change my life.”

– K ELLY H ARRIS F ARMERS I NSURANCE

Although competing demands sometimes cause women to dream about quitting their work outside the home, that doesn’t guarantee a stress-free existence. Kelly Harris of Farmers Insurance has a 2-and-a-half year old daughter. “I’ve owned my business for coming up on 11 years. I didn’t realize how much becoming a mother would change my life.” Even so, Harris af-

“I have a great staff that can handle the business when I have

Finding the balance between one’s work and personal life isn’t easy, but Debbie Schirico has resolved to keep a healthy balance. “I love my patients and I love my business, and it is real easy to get caught up working 24/7. My New Years resolution is to exercise. Ballroom dancing and country dancing are fantastic alternatives to the treadmill. It has been a wonderful experience to get out and meet people; be social and enjoy life.

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

Servicio en español: 12:30 / 214.823.8134 / episcopalcathedral.org

LUTHERAN

CENTRAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, ELCA / 1000 Easton Road

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

Pastor Rich Pounds / CentralLutheran.org / 214.327.2222

FIRST UNITED LUTHERAN CHURCH / 6202 E Mockingbird Ln.

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

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

L AKE HIGHLANDS UMC / 9015 Plano Rd. / 214.348.6600 / lhumc.com

9:30 – Sunday School / 10:30 – Fellowship Time

10:50 – Traditional & Contemporary Worship

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

DWELLING PL ACE CHURCH Being the church in every day life experiences / Sundays at 10:30am / www.dpclife.com

Magnolia Theater / 3699 McKinney Ave. / 469.438.5405

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

KING’S PARISH A SSOCIATE REFORMED PRESBY TERIAN CHURCH

kingsparish.com / Rev. David Winburne / Worship at 10:00 am

Meets at Ridgewood Park Rec Center / 469.600.3303

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

Summer Worship: May 27 - Aug. 19 : 10:00 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

UNITY 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

THE CHURCH ON A HINGE

No doubt things are changing, but not everything

The church is changing.

We all know it and it shouldn’t alarm us. The church has changed in every age since its birth at Pentecost. Every 500 years or so, though, hinges of history have produced large-scale changes. We’re hinging now, it seems, and no one is any more certain of the shape the church will emerge with after this reshaping than we were at other key moments.

People of faith should take to heart that God is at work in the world and in us in mysterious ways that aren’t all bad. They should also take to mind that all change isn’t necessary or necessarily good. Wisdom knows the difference, and it makes all the difference to know the difference.

Young adults today embody many of these challenges to the church. Traditional churches generally bemoan their absence in our pews. What’s become of our kids? We reared them in the faith. We taught them the Bible. We showed them the way. Doesn’t the proverb say, “Train up children in the way they should go and when they are old they will not depart from it”? Do we have to wait for them to get old to see them return?

Many young adults have left the church altogether because they deem it either too judgmental or not firm enough, too political or not socially relevant, too uptight or too laidback. Others who share these contradictory concerns have found new church expressions that reinforce their spiritual values. These new churches look and feel quite different from the churches they knew as children. This concerns their parents and the preachers who preside over traditional churches.

Again, this shouldn’t surprise us. We are trying to find our way in a new day. Allow me to speak to each in turn.

To faith-weathered Christians first I would say, keep your heart open to what God might be up to with young adults. See

if there is something to learn from those who are trying to hold the faith as surely as you but differently. Some are discouraged by our slow pace of change in addressing issues of the day they find compelling. They have seen the destructive power of a spiritual life that divides institutional religion and the unchecked pursuit of wealth. They believe the church should say something to the way the world is organized. They don’t understand why we tolerate the gap between rich and poor, why hungry children go unfed in a world of plenty, and why their gay friends are ostracized from the church. More conservative young adults are seeking answers to the moral breakdown they see in their own broken families, in a fragmented society, and in the churches they grew up in. They want a more secure world that keeps chaos at bay. They are seeking churches that take their concerns seriously—one way or another.

To faith-fledging Christians I would say, the church wasn’t invented yesterday. Everything that has been passed down isn’t wrong, worn, or needing to be shorn. Every age needs to rethink the faith, but the church doesn’t need reinventing as we do. The church isn’t a current clique; it’s the body of Christ extending across time. Those who came before you bear wisdom worth listening to. If you only worship with those of your generation or your opinion, you will stunt your spiritual growth. The church needs you, and you need the church. Older Christians need you, and you need them. Critics sit on the sidelines and never get hurt; players may get bruised in the contest but have the thrill of being in the game.

To both groups this: Truth is stubborn. Sometimes it’s more black and white than you want it to be; sometimes it’s grayer. In each case, it is what it is. You can’t bend it the way you want it. You have to bend to it.

May God keep us in one peace as we discover the path forward together.

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.

LW,LH,PH

Generations of scholars

Woodrow Wilson graduating seniors Andre Plata and Sydney Patterson won the $5,000 Woodrow class of ’66 scholarships this year. The donation-based scholarship fund has awarded $65,000 to Woodrow seniors over the past 18 years. Pictured from left to right are Tom Mason, Maggie Reddy, David Thomas, Corky Davis, Andre Plata, Sydney Patterson, Bill Dailey, Steve Parrott, Angela Plata, Steve Holley, Gail Williams, Mike Mohon and Murray Campbell.

TO ADVERTISE CALL 214.560.4203

Rad grads

Nick Chatham and Hayley Heiner graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School as valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively. Chatham is headed to New York University in the fall to study music, and Heiner is going to the University of California at San Diego to study marine science.

BULLETIN BOARD B

CLASSES/TUTORING/ LESSONS

ART: Draw or Paint. All Levels. Lake Highlands N. Rec. Ctr. Jane Cross, 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 Your location. All Ages/All Styles. UNT Grads. Betty & Bill 972-203-1573 • 469-831-7012

LEARN GUITAR OR PIANO Beginner Drums. Fun/Easy. Your Home. UNT Music Grad. Larry 469-358-8784

TUTORING All Subjects. Elem-middle School. Algebra 1, Dmath. Your Home. 25 + Yrs. Dr. J. 214-535-6594. vsjams@att.net

TUTORING Reading/Writing. All Grades. Master’s/10 Yrs Exp. Your Home. 214-515-5502. lissastewartjobs@hotmail.com

VOICE TEACHER with 38 years experience. MM, NATS www.PatriciaIvey.com 214-769-8560

CHILDCARE

LOVING, CHRIST-CENTERED CARE SINCE 1982 Lake Highlands Christian Child Enrichment Center Ages 2 mo.-12 yrs. 9919 McCree. 214-348-1123.

EMPLOYMENT

AIRLINE CAREERS Begin Here. Become an Aviation Maintenance Tech. FAA Approved. Training. Financial Aid, if qualified. Housing available. Job placement assistance. AIM 866-453-6204

PART-TIME TEACHER Toddlers–3 years. Park Cities Baptist Mother’s Day Out. Early childhood degree or certification preferred. Shannon McGee 214-860-1520 or skmcgee@pcbc.org

WANTED: FREELANCE BOOKKEEPER

Preferably someone living in the Lakewood neighborhood to work on business & personal. Knowledge of Advertising/Graphic Design business a plus. Must know MYOB/Account Edge. Call Tom Zielinski -214-460-1667

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

$5,000 SIGNING BONUS. Frac Sand Owner Operators. More Texas Work Than Trucks. Must Have Tractor, Blower & Pneumatic Trailer. 817-926-3535

I’M LOOKING FOR A BILINGUAL BUSINESS PARTNER for expansion of 55-yr.-old start-up co. BJ Ellis 214-226-9875

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

DINO LIMO Yours For All Special Occasions,Casino Trips. 40 Yrs Exp. dino-avantilimousines.com. 214-682-9100

SERVICES FOR YOU

DIRECTV 285 + Channels from $29.99/month. Free HBO, Cinemax, Showtime, Starz. 3 Months. Free HD/DVR. Free Installation. Local Installers. Call Now 800-230-7774

PRO DJ SERVICE & SOUND Corporate Events & Weddings. 20 + Years Experience. 469-236-8490

SIGNS: Nameplates, Badges, Office, Braille. A&G Engraving. 214-324-1992. getasign@att.net agengraving.vpweb.com

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

ESTATE/PROBATE MATTERS Because every family needs a will. Mary Glenn, J.D. maryglennattorney.com • 214-802-6768

HOME ORGANIZING & Senior Moving Plans/Solutions. Refs avail. Donna 860-710-3323 DHJ0807@aol.com. $30 hr.

TRANSLATIONS English, Spanish, & French at affordable rates. LenguaTutoringAndTranslation@yahoo.com or 214-331-7200.

Website Design

Flash Demos

Graphic Design

Three’s company

Ruby Elizabeth, William Lee and Savannah Grace Kneggs are the triplets born at Doctors Hospital in June. They are the first triplets born at the hospital in its 53-year history. Parents are Neely and Trey Kneggs, and the babies also have a 20-monthold brother, Bryan. The babies weighed 4 pounds 12 ounces, 4 pounds 6 ounces and 5 pounds 1 ounce, respectively, and were released from the hospital 11 days after they were born.

BBULLETIN BOARD

MIND, BODY & SPIRIT

DEANNA SKUPIEN/AVA PRO Specializing In Cut & Color styleseat.com/deannaskupien 469-644-2554

LYONS FITNESS & STRENGTH 469-744-3214

Personal Training at a Private Studio in East Dallas.

MASSAGE Specializing In Oncology, Swedish & Deep Tissue. ProgressiveMassageTherapy.com 214-773-2837

PETS

FEEDMYCANINE.COM | Premium Dog Food, Value Price Free Delivery | Call Isaac Hernandez | Owner | 469-735-5686

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

TROPICAL FISH & AQUARIUMS Sales & Service. Fresh, Salt, & Pond. TheAquariumBoutique.com 214-660-0537

The big reveal

Students from Uplift Education’s Peak and Laureate Preparatory schools in East Dallas participated in the new logo reveal for Perot Museum of Nature and Science. The museum is set to open in 2013. Pictured: Margot and Ross Perot with students from Uplift Education’s Peak and Laureate Preparatory schools.

SUBMIT YOUR PHOTO. Email a jpeg to editor@advocatemag.com.

TO ADVERTISE CALL 214.560.4203

BUY/SELL/TRADE

TOP CASH FOR CARS Any Car, Truck. Running or Not. Call for Instant Offer. 1-800-454-6951

We Pay $$$ for Kids Stuff!

214-823-1441

In-Home Professional Care

Customized to maintain your pet’s routine

In-Home Pet Visits & Daily Walks

“Best of Dallas” D Magazine Serving the Dallas area since 1994

Bonded & Insured www.societypetsitter.com 214-821-3900

Children’s Clothing – Youth Size 16 Furniture, Equipment, Toys, Books and More! Payment on the spot for all items accepted 6300 Skillman St @ Abrams Rd, 214.503.6010

ESTATE/GARAGE SALES

CLUTTERBLASTERS.COM Estate / Moving Sales, De-Cluttering, Organizing. 972-679-3100

ESTATE SALES & LIQUIDATION SERVICES

Moving, Retirement, Downsizing. One Piece or a Houseful. David Turner. 214-908-7688. dave2estates@aol.com

REAL ESTATE

FOR LEASE 1 bedroom/1 bath Duplex. 5424 Alton Ave. Remodeled. 1913 Prairie Style Home, hardwoods,tile, large windows, Frig, W/D. Nice Backyard-backs up to the Santa Fe Trail. Ride your bike from your backyard. Large Attic for Storage. $820/month + Utilities (Avail 7/15)

TACLA26823E Mr. Vargas 214-460-3239

AC & HEAT

FOR QUALITY, QUALIFIED SERVICE CALL 214-350-0800 ABS AC & Heat TACLA28514E

LAKEWOOD HEAT & AIR Servicing Dallas 20+ years. 214-682-3822 TACLA28061E

QUALITY 1 ENERGY SYSTEMS

A/C & Heat Sales & Service since 1989. TACLA010760E Q1es.com 214-348-9588

S&E A/C & HEATING, LLC 214.912.7900

Half off svc fee w/repair. 10% off repair w/ maintenance pkg. Res/Com. #TACLA00029455E se-ac-heat.com BBB approved CCs Accepted

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

THE CLIENT’S CONTRACTOR

www.CuttingEdgeRenovationsLLC.com

TRY A CRESTVIEW DOOR for a modern entry. crestviewdoors.com 214-727-8495

Residential Remodel and Construction 469 767 1868 joshangus@aksdallas.com www.aksdallas.com

Building Services

TACLA28514E American GENERAL CONTRACTOR Air Conditioning & Heating Sales, Service, All Brands. ONE SOURCE — ALL YOUR NEEDS 214-350-0800

BLUE RIBBON

Repairing:

CARPENTRY & REMODELING

BLAKE CONSTRUCTION CONCEPTS, LLC

Complete Remodeling, Kitchens, Baths, Additions. Hardie Siding & Replacement Windows. Radiant Barrier, Insulation. Bonded & Insured. www.blake-construction.com 214-563-5035

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

CARPENTER Custom Cabinets, & Trim, Reorganize Closets, Repair Rotten Wood, Set Doors, Kitchen & Baths, Refs. Return Calls By End Of Business Day. Dave. 214-684-4800

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

KEN’S RESIDENTIAL REMODELING 214-886-8927. kenscontracting.com

KITCHEN AND BATHROOM SPECIALISTS

JCI Remodeling: From Simple Updates to Full Remodeling Services. Competitive Pricing! JCIRemodeling.com 972-948-5361

O’BRIEN GROUP INC. Professional Home Remodel. Shannon O’Brien. 214-341-1448 www.obriengroupinc.com

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

SQUARE NAIL WOODWORKING

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

• 1 & 2 Story Additions

•

CARPENTRY & REMODELING

New Creation GROUP

Remodel Design Renovation

214-766-2677

www.newcreationgroup.com

redoguys.com 214 / 803. 4774

CLEANING SERVICES

A CLEANING SERVICES

mcprofessionalcleaning.com 469-951-2948

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

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

MAID 4 YOU Bonded/Insured. Park Cities/M Streets Refs. Call Us First. Joyce.214-232-9629

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

SUNSHINE HOUSE CLEANING

Cleaning To Perfection. Reasonable Rates. Insured/ Bonded. 214-490-6659

THE MAIDS Angie’s List Service Award! Discounts at www.maids.com Free Quotes. 972-278-2551

WANTED: HOUSES TO CLEAN

20 yrs. exp., Reliable, Great Prices, Excellent Refs., Free Estimates. No Crews. Sunny 214-724-2555

WINDOW MAN WINDOW CLEANING.COM Residential Specialists. BBB. 214-718-3134

COMPUTERS & ELECTRONICS

BILL’S COMPUTER REPAIR

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

COMPUTER PROBLEMS SOLVED

Hardware/Software. Network. 20 yrs exp. Great Rates! Keith 214-295-6367

IQUEUE MEDIA COMPANY 214-478-8644

TV Installation, Computer Repair, Security.

CONCRETE/ MASONRY/PAVING

BRICK & STONE REPAIR

Don 214-704-1722

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

CAZARES CONCRETE Concrete retaining walls, Patios, Driveways, Removal, Sidewalks. 214-202-8958 Free estimates.

CONCRETE REPAIRS/REPOURS

Demo existing. Driveways/Patio/Walks

Pattern/Color available 972-672-5359 (32 yrs.)

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

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

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

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

TEXAS ELECTRICAL • 214-289-0639 Prompt, Quality Services. Days, Evenings & Weekends. 34 Yrs Exp. TECL 24668

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

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

’07, ’08, ’09, ’10, ’11 CONSUMERS CHOICE AWARDS Making Homes Safer One Call at a Time

FENCING & DECKS

ARTdECk-O.COm 20 Year Warranty! Decks, Fences, Pergolas 214-435-9574

CREATIVE METAL SOLUTIONS LLC

Automatic Gates, Fence, Stairs, Stair/Balcony Railings, Wine Cellar Gates. 214-325-4985

KIRKWOOD FENCE & DECK

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

LONESTARdECkS.COm 214-357-3975

Decks, Arbors, Fences, Patio Covers

Trex Decking & Fencing.

STEEL SALVATION Metal Art, Unique Crosses, Funky Fire Pits. steelsalvation.com

Local Resident 40+Yrs. 214-283-4673

EST. 1991 #1

COWBOY

FENCE & IRON CO.

214.692.1991

Residential . Commercial Construction Remodel Cleans make-readys windows carpet

Swimming Pool Remodels • Patios Stone work • Stamp Concrete 972-727-2727

Deckoart.com

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

ANTHONY’S ELECTRIC Master Electrician. TECL24948 anthonyselectricofdallas.com

Family Owned/Operated. Insd. 214-328-1333

DIRECT ELECTRIC Inc. New, remodel, res/com. Insured. Call 214-566-8888. Lic # TECL27551

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

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

972-926-7007 arrowelectric.net

Phones Answered 24/7

TECL20502 972.877.4183

M C C ARTER ELECTRICAL SERVICE, INC.

Your Safety is Our #1 Concern... 24/7

mccarterelectricaltx.com

TECL #19147

Mention Advocate for $55 OFF

LIC#17141 PC ELECTRIC 214.533.5949 call.text.email thepcelectric.com

EXTERIOR CLEANING

BLOUNTS HAULING/TRASH SERVICE blountsjunkremovaldfw.com 214-275-5727

PARKCITIESRESIDENTIALSERVICES.COM

Power Washing-All Yard & Home. 214-335-5443

FENCING & DECKS

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

4 QUALITY FENCING Call Mike 214-507-9322

Specializing in Wood, New or Repair.

SPECIALIZING IN Wood Fences &Auto Gates

cowboyfenceandiron.com

"You Know Us"

Locally owned and operated since 1980

www.northlakefence.com

214-349-9132

FIREPLACE SERVICES

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

FLOORING & CARPETING

BEAR FOOT HARdWOOdS 214-734-8851

Complete Hardwood Flooring Services

CUTTING EDGE FLOORING Hardwoods, Carpet, Tile. New/Repair. 972-822-7501

dALLAS HARdWOOdS 214-724-0936

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

214.750.4888 20 years in business!

$25.00 Off – 1st Full Detail Clean Complimentary quotes! lecleandallas.com

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

A FATHER, SON & GRANDSON TEAM

Fences, Gates, Decks. Haven 214-327-0560

AMBASSADOR FENCE INC.

Automatic Gates, Iron & Cedar Fencing, Decks. Since 1996. MC/V 214-621-3217

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

STAINED & SCORED CONCRETE FLOORS

New/Remodel. Res/Com. Int/Ext. Refin. 15 Yrs. TheConcreteStudio.com 214-321-1575

SUPER QUALITY WOOD FLOORS

Jim Crittendon, 214-821-6593

WILLEFORD HARDWOOD FLOORS

214-824-1166 • WillefordHardwoodFloors.com

WORLEY TILE & FLOORING

Custom Marble Install. 214-779-3842

FOUNDATION REPAIR

• Slabs • Pier & Beam

• Mud Jacking • Drainage

• Free Estimates

• Over 20 Years Exp. 972-288-3797

We Answer Our Phones

GARAGE DOORS

GARAGE DOOR & SPRING REPAIR

972-672-0848 TexasGaragePros.com

20% off with “Advocate Magazine”

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

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

GLASS, WINDOWS & DOORS

A FATHER, SON & GRANDSON TEAM Expert Window Cleaning. Haven 214-327-0560

CLEARWINDOWSANDDOORS.COM

Replacement Windows & Doors Free Estimate 214-274-5864

LAKE HIGHLANDS GLASS & MIRROR custom mirrors • shower enclosures store fronts • casements 214-349-8160

LANDMARK ENERGY SOLUTIONS

214-395-9148. Specializing In Replacement Windows/Doors. Member BBB

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

Energy-Efficient Windows

Quality Workmanship, Quality Materials, Reasonable Prices, since 1987. 214.319.8400 fosterexteriors.com

1350 N. Buckner Suite 216

HOURS:

M-F 8:30a-5p

HANDYMAN SERVICES

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

FRAME RIGHT All Honey-Dos/Jobs. 10+Yrs licensed neighborhood bus. Matt 469-867-9029

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

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

HARGRAVE CONSTRUCTION Kitchen, Bath, Doors, Tile & Handyman Services. 214-215-9266

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 NO JOB TOO BIG. NO JOB TOO SMALL. 40+ years exp. Ron Payne 214-755-9147

WANTED: ODD JOBS & TO DO LISTS Allen’s Handyman & Home Repair 214-288-4232

Your Home Repair Specialists

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

HOUSE PAINTING

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

#1 GET MORE PAY LES Painting. 85% Referrals. Free Est. 214-348-5070

A + INT/EXT PAINT & DRYWALL Since 1977. Kirk Evans. 972-672-4681

A QUALITY PAINTING SERVICE

Interior & exterior plus small repairs. First two gallons free! 214-824-6112

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

HOUSE PAINTING

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

Painting · Remodeling

NAT-90143-1

KITCHEN/BATH/

WE

214-870-3939

www.amistadcsc.com

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

INSULATION/ RADIANT BARRIER

LANDMARK ENERGY SOLUTIONS

214-395-9148. Radiant Barrier, Insulation. Free Quotes. Member BBB

INTERIOR DESIGN

BORED WITH DECOR? UPDATE COLORS! Exp’d. Design Pro. Call Carolyn 214-363-0747

ROB’S HOME STAGING.COM 214-507-5688

Changing Rooms For All Reasons and Seasons

KITCHEN/BATH/ TILE/GROUT

BATHTUB, COUNTERTOP & TILE Resurfacing: Walls, Tub Surrounds, Showers. Glaze or Faux Stone finishes. Affordable Alternative to Replacement! 972-323-8375. PermaGlazeNorthDallas.com

BLAKE CONSTRUCTION CONCEPTS LLC

premium quality custom shower doors & enclosures 214-530-5483 showerdoordallas.com

HANDYMAN

SERVICES

A HELPING HAND No Job Too Small. We do it all. Repairs /Redos. Chris. 214-693-0678

A R&G HANDYMAN Electrical, Plumbing, Painting, Fencing, Roofing, Light Hauling. Ron or Gary 214-861-7569, 469-878-8044

A+ HANDYMAN KARL Home Repairs, Remodels & Restoration. 214-699-8093

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

ABRAHAM PAINT SERVICE A Women Owned Business 25 Yrs. Int/Ext. Wall Reprs. Discounts On Whole Interiors and Exteriors 214-682-1541

ALL TYPES Painting & Repairs. A+ BBB rating. Small jobs welcome. Call Kenny 214-321-7000

BENJAMIN’S PAINTING SERVICE Quality

Work At Reasonable Prices. 214-725-6768

BLAKE CONSTRUCTION CONCEPTS, LLC

Complete Painting Interior/Exterior, Stain Etc. Custom Finishes, Custom Texture, Custom Trim www.blake-construction.com

Fully Bonded & Insured. 214-563-5035

RAMON’S INT/EXT PAINT

Sheetrock, Repairs. 214-679-4513

SARATOGA INTERIOR PAINTING & REPAIR

Affordable. Free Estimates. Reed. 214-577-0622

TOP COAT Professional. Reliable. References. TopCoatOfTexas.com

214-770-2863

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

BRIAN WARD STONE & TILE 972-989-9899

LH Dad & Firefighter. 12 years of Tile Experience.

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

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

• Cultured Marble

• Kitchen Countertops

LAWNS, GARDENS & TREES

25% OFF TREE WORK Trim. Dead Tree Removal. Roberts Tree Svc. Insd. 10 yrs exp. 214-808-8925

A BETTER TREE COMPANY • JUST TREES

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 214-534-3816

ADVANCED TREE SERVICE

Quality Tree Trimming & Removal. 214-455-2095

ALTON MARTIN LANDSCAPING Spectacular Curbside Appeal! Excellent refs. 214-760-0825

ARBOR WIZARDS Professionals, Experts, Artists. Trim Rmv Cable Repair Cavity-Fill Stump Grind Emergency Hazards . Insd. Free Est. 972-803-6313

AYALA’S LANDSCAPING SERVICE

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

BLOUNTS TREE SERVICE Spring Special 20% Off Tree Work. 45 yrs exp. Insured. blountssodinstallation.com 214-275-5727

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

COLE’S LAWN CARE • 214-327-3923 Quality Service with a Personal Touch.

DALLAS K.D.R.SERVICES • 214-349-0914

Lawn Service & Landscape Installation

GIANT PLANT SALE JULY 1ST-JULY 15TH Walton’s Garden Center. 8652 Garland Rd.

GREENSKEEPER Fall Clean Up & Color. Sodding, Fertilization. Lawn Maintenance & Landscape. Res/Com. 214-546-8846

HOLMAN IRRIGATION

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

MOW YOUR YARD $27

White Rock Landscaping 214-415-8434

MOWPROS Most Houses $25 Weekly. Reliable and Convenient. 214-669-7767

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

PARADISELANDSCAPES.NET · 214-328-9955

Installations of Fine Gardens, Patios, Paths & more!

RONS LAWN Organic Solutions. Not Environmental Pollution. Landscape & Maintenance 972-222-LAWN (5296)

LAWNS, GARDENS &

SPRINKLERS, LANDSCAPING, Stone Work, Drainage. Installed and Repaired. Call Kevin at 214-535-3352,Lic#7840. www.bigdirrigation.com

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

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

PEST CONTROL

A BETTER EARTH PEST CONTROL Keeping the environment, kids, pets in mind. Organic products avail. 972-564-2495

McDANIEL PEST CONTROL

Prices Start at $75 +Tax for General Treatment

Average Home, Interior, Exterior & Attached Garage Quotes for Other Services

214-328-2847

Lakewood Resident

PLUMBING

ANDREWS PLUMBING • 214-354-8521

# M37740 Insured. Any plumbing issues. 24 Hours/7 Days. plumberiffic@yahoo.com

Sewers • Drains • Bonded

*Joe Faz 214-794-7566 - Se Habla Español*

ARRIAGA PLUMBING: Repairs, Remodels, Faucet Repair. Lic 20754 214-321-0589

BLOUNTS PLUMBING REPAIR Rebuild or Replace. 45 yrs exp. Insured. 214-275-5727

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

Slab Leak Specialists – inquire about reroute instead of jackhammering All Plumbing Repairs Licensed/Insured 214-727-4040

ML-M36843

POOLS

ADAIR POOL & SPA SERVICE 1 month free service for new customers. Call for details. 469-358-0665.

LOCK’S POOL SERVICE - 469-235-2072

Dependable repairs. Pool Electrical TICL #550

MICHAEL’S POOL SERVICE

Maintenance & Repair 214-727-7650

LEAFCHASER’S POOL SERVICE

Parts and Service. Chemicals and Repairs. Jonathan Mossman FREE ESTIMATES 214-729-3311

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.

ROOFING & GUTTERS

A&B GUTTER 972-530-5699

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

A+ BBB RATED ROOFING CO. Ehlers Roofing. New/Repairs. 214-699-8093. Est. 1960

GUARANTY ROOFING 214-760-3666

Re-Roofing/Repairs/Green Options. Free Estimates. www.guarantyroof.com

NATIONWIDE ROOFING,FENCING,GUTTERS

BBB member. 214-882-8719

Here for over 20 Years before the storm

Roofing & Remodel • Additions

• Licensed/Insured •

Over 1,000 Satisfied Customers in the Lakewood, Lake Highlands, Preston Hollow, Park Cities Areas

FREE ESTIMATES

Allstate Homecraft Roofing 214-824-0767

ALLSTATEHOMECRAFT . COM

ROOFING

& GUTTERS

SERVICE, QUALITY AND INTEGRITY. It's

When working with Aspenmark, you can expect:

• Expert insurance claims assistance

• FREE inspections and estimates

• Promptly returned phone calls

• Scheduled appointments

• Clean and timely installations

• Factory Certified materials

Aspenmark is the clear choice when

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

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

OPTOMETRIST

DR. CLINT MEYER www.dallaseyeworks.com

LASIK. The freedom from glasses and contact lenses. No allergy eyes and contacts. No restrictions on what type of sun glasses that you want. Sharp, clear vision when you wake up in the morning.

At Dallas Eyeworks Dr. Meyer works with the top LASIK offices in the metroplex.

Call today for your FREE screening and experience clear, natural vision. You deserve it.

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

HE DIDN’T HIDE IN THE BUSHES HE STOLE THEM.

Rosie Sendra has been living in her home for nine years. She loves her neighborhood and has never had any fears about crime — especially the kind of crime she experienced in May. It just seemed so random and out of the ordinary. Sendra had returned home on a Friday morning and was inside no more than an hour or so.

The Victim: Rosie Sendra

The Crime: Theft

Date: Friday, May 18

Time: Around 9 a.m.

Location: 7000 block of Lakewood Boulevard

When she came out, she couldn’t believe her eyes. Four 3-foot evergreen shrubs had been removed form the side of her home.

“It’s not like they’re new shrubs,” she

says. “They were here when we moved in nine years ago. It’s so strange. They also tried to pull out a tree and left it sideways.”

The shrubs were removed from the ground — roots and all. Sendra has no idea who might have committed the crime, but wonders whether maybe someone in landscaping or gardening saw an easy score. Sendra now has to go through the hassle of planting new shrubs.

Dallas Police Sr. Cpl. Jerry Fonville of the Northeast Patrol Division spoke with investigative detectives about this incident and says that this kind of case is extremely rare.

“As a matter of fact, this was the first they had heard of someone actually digging up shrubs,” he says. “There was one other shrubbery theft that they could recall, but it is unlikely related. Their position is that this was probably some kind of prank, but if a legitimate theft, not a common one.”

Sean Chaffin is a freelance writer and editor of pokertraditions.com. If you have been a recent crime victim, email crime@advocatemag.com.

Design/Build New Installations Fine Gardens Outdoor Rooms Plus Patios Paths Walls Pergolas Trellises Water/Fire Features Tree Work Drainage Solutions Lighting Total Makeovers ConcreteWork Art Installs ParadiseLandscapes.net

$350 2 06.04 TETER’S F AUCET P ARTS

Number of cat burglaries that occurred in one weekend in East Dallas in the 11300 block of Lippit and the 6500 block of Lake Circle; these happened overnight while the homeowners were at home asleep

Amount of damage done to a woman’s Jeep Cherokee in an apartment complex in the 1100 block of Whitehaven; a male neighbor asked her out, she declined, so he slashed her tires and broke her passenger side window

Date when someone vandalized the parking garage, elevator and garage sign at Mockingbird Station with black spray paint; the suspect had previously received a parking violation

CALL HIM ‘M AYOR VISION’

During his impassioned plea for us to put aside our sectarian differences and unite to build the Trinity toll road, Mayor Rawlings said, “Dallas has never been held back from a vision if we really set our mind to it.”

Which strikes me as the perfect nickname for Rawlings: Mayor Vision. He can see the future so clearly, and what he sees is so impressive — landmark parks and signature bridges and racial and ethnic diversity in the kind of city that gets featured in glossy, high-end travel magazines. The problem with that, of course, is that he spends so much time looking into the future that his grasp of the present seems shaky, even on good days.

admitting it — the city manager says some $200 million to the November bond package will be used for street repair, twice what was originally planned. My current favorite (and it’s not like I didn’t have a lot to choose from, including Forest Lane on the other side of the tollway, which is more third-world than world-class) is the intersection of Northwest Highway and Shady Brook, near Half Price Books. The best way to describe it is to paraphrase Tennyson: “Into the Valley of Death drove the six hundred ...”

cars can make it through at a time, especially when turning left, and traffic backs up on Shady Brook. Where, complicating matters more, there are cars trying to pull out of apartment parking lots. At the worst, there is a multi-car pileup waiting to happen.

Mayor Rawlings can see the future so clearly, and what he sees is so impressive — landmark parks and signature bridges and racial and ethnic diversity in the kind of city that gets featured in glossy, high-end travel magazines.

Seriously. Shady Brook south of Northwest Highway is higher than Northwest Highway, which means you’re driving down into a steep dip, either making a left or going straight. It has been that way for as long as I can remember, and that part of the intersection is potted and scarred with years of neglect, bad patch jobs and the like.

So why hasn’t this been fixed? It doesn’t take vision to see what needs to be done and to see how dangerous the intersection is. But vision is cheap, and actually doing something isn’t. It doesn’t cost one penny to say, as Rawlings did in his speech, that “we must be one city rather than two. We’ve had North Dallas, and we’ve had the southern sector. Until we think and act as one city, we will not maximize our potential.” Those are grand words, and most of us want to applaud when we hear them — and we desperately want to believe them.

Consider, for instance, the pitiful state of so many of Dallas’ streets. How do we know it’s bad (and not just whining from a bunch of malcontents like me)?

We actually have someone Downtown

That’s bad enough. But what really makes the intersection dangerous is that drivers need to slow down to negotiate the Valley of Death. If they don’t, they’ll scrape the bottom of the car or bounce around or be forced to veer into oncoming traffic to miss a chuckhole. The catch, of course, is that Dallas drivers don’t like to slow down, and paying attention isn’t our strong suit, either. At the least, drivers have to pick their way through the intersection so slowly that only a couple or three

But Rawlings doesn’t have to pay for them, which is one reason why it is so easy for him to see so clearly into the future. What’s more difficult, and what the bosses Downtown have not been able to do for a decade, is to pay for our future. They’ve mortgaged it for their baubles and pretty doodads, and Northwest Highway and Forest Lane and hundreds — even thousands — of other problems are the result.

Yes, I want to live in a city where visitors stand slackjawed at what they see, but I know — as they know in the world’s great cities — that we can’t get there until we fix the present. Because, no matter how pretty Rawlings’ vision is, it’s a fantasy built on fiction, and reality will always intrude.

Je Siegel, a neighborhood resident, writes a monthly opinion column about neighborhood issues. His opinions are not necessarily those of the Advocate or its management. Send comments and ideas to him at 6301 Gaston, Suite 820, Dallas 75214; fax to 214.823.8866; or email editor@advocatemag.com.