2019 September Lakewood

5922 RICHMOND | $825,000

Bed | 3.1 Bath | 2 Car | 2,950 Sq Ft The Chris Hickman Group 469-569-1106

7012 CLAYTON | $645,000 3 Bed | 2 Bath | Guest House | Pool | 1,950 Sq Ft Nicholas Nordman - 214-529-5138

8602 SANTA CLARA | $459,000 4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2 Car | 2,199 Sq Ft RoseMarie LaCoursiere - 214-886-4880

9036 WESTBRIAR | $370,000

Rob Schrickel - 214-801-1795

9029 SANTA CLARA | $767,000

Sq Ft RoseMarie LaCoursiere - 214-886-4880 9035 SANTA CLARA | $627,000

$449,000

Sq Ft Mary Poss - 214-738-0777

PHOTO BY DANNY FULGENCIO

SEE NEW STORIES EVERY DAY ONLINE AT Lakewood.advocatemag.com

Totally rad

A new ’90s-themed Airbnb is open on Lower Greenville, and it is a brightly colored love letter to the decade guaranteed to make you feel like a kid again. The house is lovingly dubbed “The Slater” in honor of the lovable jock from “Saved by the Bell.” The house isn’t just fun for the eyes. Each room features vintage game consoles, including an N64 and a VHS player. In the morning, enjoy PopTarts in the kitchen named after the “Saved by the Bell” diner.

Suing the school

A former Woodrow Wilson student is taking legal action against Dallas ISD after an administrative error changed the Woodrow Wilson class rank just days before graduation. The changes caused Jackson Hansen to drop from second to sixth in the class rank. In the lawsuit, he petitions DISD for a correction of the academic record and a public declaration that he is the salutatorian of the class of 2019.

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Excellent entrepreneur

Bryan Adams High School teacher

Joan McCoo received a $15,000 prize as the winner of the Steven J. Mariotti Teacher Award given annually by the Network For Teaching Entrepreneurship. McCoo received an additional $5,000 for her school. “Every child has an entrepreneur inside of them just waiting to be brought out,” she says. “I’ve witnessed the impact it has on my students.”

Under the bus

Forest Hills resident Rick Sorrells, the former superintendent of the transportation agency, Dallas County Schools, was sentenced to seven years in prison for accepting more than $3 million in bribes. Prosecutors say he spent the bribe money on credit card debt, trips, personal expenses and an apartment in New Orleans. He will report to federal prison Sept. 17.

Advocate, © 2019, 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.

ABOUT THE COVER

Photography by Danny Fulgencio.

The big shootout

The book, “The Big Shootout: The Untold Story of the Game of the Century,” celebrates 50 years since Texas and Arkansas faced off in 1969. Author and Lakewood neighbor Mike Looney adapted the book from his 2013 documentary, “The Big Shootout: The Life and Times of 1969.” While filming, Looney kept a diary and captured the unique stories of players, coaches and dignitaries involved in the game. Those stories would later become the book, which comes with a copy of the DVD.

Drug hub

The City of Dallas is suing a Texaco in Far East Dallas for excessive drug use and crime that has taken place on the property. The City seeks to hold the property owner, Bajrangbali786 LLC, accountable for assistance in maintaining a safe and secure property.

From July 2017 to July 2018, 36 cited crimes, including multiple aggravated robberies, aggravated assaults and drug crimes, took place at the Texaco.

SEE NEW STORIES EVERY DAY ONLINE AT Lakewood.advocatemag.com

Why so low?

Missing stoplogs used to regulate water levels at White Rock Lake caused up to 6 inches of water to flow over the spillway. Three logs were replaced, and a permanent repair will be administered this fall through planned maintenance on the spillway and dam.

Faulkner facelift

The Faulkner Tower has a new owner. Carl Anderson, co-founder of commercial real estate developer Larkspur Capital, says he closed in July on the building and its parking lot on Paulus Avenue. He plans to use the space for offices. The building will have new windows, a new lobby and a resurfaced parking lot. The project is scheduled for completion in November.

Boozy snow cones beat the heat Eastside Social is open on Greenville Avenue, serving fried chicken and boozy snow cones. Fried chicken sandwiches and chicken wings come with sides like fried pickles, fries, coleslaw and Hostess snacks. The rooftop bar was the first part of the eatery to open with limited hours. A restaurant and arcade room will debut on the ground floor later this fall.

SEPT. 26

FOODIEPALOOZA

Enjoy an evening of food tasting, beer, wine, specialty spirits, a silent auction, music and more on White Rock Lake. The 10th annual Foodiepalooza will support the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dallas.

Where: The Filter Building, 2810 White Rock Road

Cost: $75-$135

Info: bgcdallas.org

5 things to do in East Dallas this September

SEPT. 3

Lakewood library muse

Head to the Lakewood Branch Library with the kids for an afternoon of DIY arts and crafts using watercolors, crayons, markers, colored pencils and more.

Where: Lakewood Branch Library, 6121 Worth St.

Cost: Free Info: dallaslibrary2.org

SEPT. 5

Keb’ Mo’ in concert

You won’t want to miss Grammy Awardwinning American blues musician Keb’ Mo’ perform two back-to-back shows this month.

Where: Granada Theater, 3524 Greenville Ave.

Cost: $60

Info: granadatheater.com

SEPT. 19

North Texas Giving Day

On the 11th year of the country’s largest giving day, donations can be made to more than 2,000 nonprofits, over a dozen of which are located in East Dallas.

Where: Online or call 214.750.4222

Cost: Donations

Info: northtexasgivingday.org

SEPT. 21

Tour des Fleurs

The 14th annual Tour des Fleurs quarter- and halfmarathon races benefit the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.

Where: Lakeside Trail

Cost: $45-$75

Info: tourdesfleurs.com

BELLA VISTA

LENDING EXPERIENCE.

“Once the client explains their financial goals, I’ll find a solution for their renovation or construction loan with comfortable terms and payment.”

Patti Hawkins

From new build to remodel, the team at Bella Vista Company is here to guide your way. We start by designing until you’re happy, and then we use our expertise to oversee the build every step of the way. Our talented team of builders and craftsmen work until every stick, brick and sink is just right.

FACE OF CONSTRUCTION & ROOFING

STANDPOINT CONSTRUCTION & RESTORATION

A long-time Lake Highlands resident, Paul Reyes and his wife Claire have two daughters attending St. Patrick Catholic School.

President of Standpoint Construction, Paul was previously executive vice president and chief legal officer of Associa.

A Lake Highlands Exchange Club, Knights of Columbus and L Streets Neighborhood Association member, Paul was president of St. Patrick School’s PTA and board member of the White Rock YMCA, Lake Highlands YMCA, White Rock Valley Neighborhood Association and Town Creek Homeowners Association.

Paul earned his MBA from SMU, J.D. from Tulane and B.S. from University of Tampa.

A competitive boxer, Paul enjoys family travels and B movies. Call us today at 800-674-2606 or visit our website at standpointonline.com.

Paul Reyes 800-674-2606 standpointonline.com

UP FRONT

THE WHITE ROCK DOG RESCUER

Lilia Hollis uses her business skills to save dogs

Interview by JAIME DUNAWAY | Photography by DANNY FULGENCIO

Lilia Hollis never set out to run a rescue. In fact, she thought she was allergic to dogs growing up. But shortly after Hollis and her husband, Clay, bought a house on White Rock Lake, they found stray dogs in the nearby park. One day, Hollis discovered a shih tzu puppy with mange and staph infections in both eyes. She suspects that the night before — when a howling basset hound woke the couple at 3 a.m. — that the hound was trying to lead them to his sick friend. They adopted both dogs and spent thousands of dollars nursing the shih tzu back to health. That was nearly 20 years ago. Today, through their nonprofit, White Rock Dog Rescue, the couple places up to 250 dogs a year in permanent homes and provides low-cost vet care, training and fostering to stray animals.

Were you always an animal lover?

I didn’t think I was an animal lover. I grew up thinking I was allergic to dogs. I met my husband, and he’s a huge animal lover. He came with two big black labs. At first I was afraid, but I progressed from there.

Did you ever think you’d run a rescue?

I have a full-time job as an electrical engineer. I have a master’s in statistics and engineering. If someone said, “You’re going to run a dog rescue,” I would have said, “You’re out of your mind.” What really did it, I was a member of a women’s group and asked a neighbor to go to a happy hour to recruit. We drove by Flagpole Hill, and we saw some puppies in the field. I said, “A litter has been dumped. Let’s see how many we can find.” She said, “We’re going to miss the happy hour.” There were coyotes out there. She went on, and I found four of the puppies. What resonated that day is everyone will say they’re an animal lover, but will you get dirty? Will you miss a happy hour? Will you not go on vacation? I’m OK with that.

Are you tempted to keep all the dogs?

My personal dog, Schnickers, was left tied up to the Fair Oaks Tennis Center. I took him to adoption events. After one, I went upstairs, and I thought I closed the crate. The dog jumped on the bed. He ran up to me, threw himself on his back and kissed me on the chin. That was the moment I knew he was going to stay with me. There’s another dog I kind of cry about all the time. I sent her to New York, and

“Everyone will say they’re an animal lover, but will you get dirty? Will you miss a happy hour? Will you not go on vacation?”

I follow her on Instagram. If I have one too many glasses of wine, I cry, “Aww this dog.” She’s living the life up there.

What do people not know about running a rescue?

Everyone thinks Lakewood is an affluent part of town, but there are pockets where people are living below poverty and need help when their animal gets sick. Right now, there’s a woman who lost her house, so we have a long-term foster who’s watching her dog for three months. We also get hit up with requests like, “My parents died. Can you take their 13-year-old dog?” I wish people would consider their animals in their end-of-life plans. Why can’t their kids take their dog for a couple years? People say, “I don’t have time. I already have one dog.” But they can take their house.

Has this work taken its toll?

The rescue is almost a full-time job. My husband is a sailor, and every year we’d go somewhere different. We haven’t done that since 2005 because who’s going to watch the dogs? The need is always there.

How have you seen the rescue grow?

We do a ton of community outreach now. It’s about marketing. If the dogs aren’t being walked or being shown, they don’t get adopted. We’ve had a puppy kissing booth. We’ve started doing puppy pens at some of the local elementary schools. We inject values while they’re young. Dog fighting is bad. Don’t buy a

dog, adopt. The more variety of events we have, the more people come.

How do you raise money?

Our budget is between $80,000 and $100,000. You have to run [the rescue] like a business. If you can’t fundraise or find a good foster network, you will fail. You get in the mentality that you have to save everybody, but you can’t do that. We hit Facebook and Instagram hard. We do restaurant nights. We collect aluminum. There are several places to drop off aluminum like Studio 6 and Craft Beer Cellar. Some high school boys who need service hours crush it and package it. We take up to 800 pounds to be recycled. That’s a couple hundred dollars. Every time I eat dinner at a local place, I talk with the owner. “How can you help?” My tennis team is a big fundraiser. It didn’t start that way, but you go to happy hour, show them a dog and it’s like, “Oh, here you go. Take my money.”

How can neighbors help?

Come to events and walk dogs. We really need social media help. We need to find more appropriate venues for dogs for our restaurant nights and events. It has to be busy and family oriented. We need fosters in this area. If the dog isn’t close, it’s not getting to an event, and it’s not getting adopted. I have to pay for Meetup. It’d be nice to find a sponsor for that.

What’s the most rewarding part?

When the dogs get into homes. Some have come from awful circumstances. There’s a song “The Look of Love.”

When you see a dog look at people, and they look back, you know.

This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

For more information about White Rock Dog Rescue, contact adoptions@whiterockdog.org or 214.507.4016.

They let you know

they

going

make sure that you are as comfortable as can be and at ease.”

SWING FLING

COOL CATS ARE JIVING EVERY WEDNESDAY NIGHT AT THE SONS OF HERMANN HALL

THE DOORS TO THE HISTORIC Sons of Hermann Hall swing open to a vintage dance hall, a faint memory of the past that whirs to life at 8 p.m. every Wednesday.

Swing music swells, and the sound of dancing feet shakes the building. Couples cling to each other, spinning around, narrowly avoiding collision on the 100-year-old floor. Dancers from 15 to 75 pull away, bend to the ground, arms outstretched, jazz hands flailing and breathless smiles beaming as they twirl, dip and flip.

This is a typical night for Jerry and Kathy Warwick. Swing dance is ingrained in their lives. The East Dallas duo met on the dance floor in the late ’90s. Kathy had danced before but was new to the swing dance scene. Jerry, a natural leader on the dance floor, had been kicking it up for about a year. Kathy admits that she made the first move,

Above: Young swing dancers practice at a class taught by East Dallas neighbors Jerry and Kathy Warwick.

Story by SARAH NUNEZ-LAFONTAINE | Photography by DANNY FULGENCIO

asking him to boogie. After a trip around the floor, they soon became a dance duo, and eventually, life partners.

In the mid-90s, while some were rocking to Green Day or swooning over the Backstreet Boys, a generation of swing dancers was emerging, revitalizing the scene that many had dismissed or forgotten. It was during that time that members of the Dallas Swing Dance Society met.

As the society grew, the Warwicks began to teach. For the past 18 years, they have taught Wednesday night classes at the hall. The society wanted to preserve and promote the historic dance, hoping to attract new members every week. Jerry is passionate about the preservation of the cultural tradition and calls it a “historical education.”

The Wednesday night class fills quickly with beginners. New dancers fumble nervously but begin to move with confidence. Steps become lighter, arms less rigid. New members are celebrated. Even though the Warwicks teach the same lesson every week, they say it never gets old.

“It is always cool to see new people keep this alive,” Kathy says. “You learn to dance, but if they walk out that building with joy, that’s going to make tomorrow better. It is difficult to be angry and hold that in your heart when you’re swing dancing. Age doesn’t matter, size doesn’t matter,

“It is difficult to be angry and hold that in your heart when you’re swing dancing. Age doesn’t matter, size doesn’t matter, what you do for a job doesn’t matter.”

what you do for a job doesn’t matter. Whether you were popular or not popular, none of that matters. It is all just the dance.”

The best part of the job for the Warwicks is the joy of dancing together. Back in their performing days, when limbs were younger, moves involving lifts were more feasible. But the couple finds that dancing is still an important part of their marriage.

“My favorite moments of dancing are when we go out somewhere and music is playing, and we just get to dance together,” Kathy says. “That is magical.”

For more information about the Dallas Swing Dance Society, visit dsds.org.

Above: A man spins his partner while swing dancing at the Sons of Hermann Hall.

We Get Lakewood.

In Lakewood, you need a proven professional to help you find just what you’re looking for. And as Dallas’ experts on our city’s close-in neighborhoods, no one gets Lakewood quite like we do. Buying? Selling? Call The Professionals at 214.526.5626 or visit davidgriffin.com.

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571 Bondstone SOLD David Collier 214.536.8517 We get it

A DOG’S BLOG

SLOBBERING, FOOD HOGGING, YARD DIGGING AND LOVING: MAX INSPIRES A SENIOR PASTOR

FEW PEOPLE WOULD SAY that dog poop is what inspired them to start a blog. But for neighbor Patrick Littlefield, it was his “ah-ha” moment.

Littlefield was running late for work, but he still had to take his golden retriever, Max, on a bathroom break. After fruitlessly tugging on the leash of his 70-pound pet, urging him to go to the bathroom, Littlefield realized he couldn’t make his dog poop.

“It was an ah-ha moment because I was also trying to force some things in my work life and my personal life,” he says. “Max was teaching me something in his stubbornness.”

After the incident, Littlefield started writing his observations on a blog called “Lessons from Max” in which he shares how the retriever influences his life for the better. The site is full of posts that focus on love, patience and acceptance.

Max has served as best friend and teacher since 2013, when Littlefield moved back to Dallas after finishing graduate school in Atlanta. He had interviewed for several jobs outside Dallas, but his dad — who had bought Max from a breeder the

year before — promised to give his son the dog if he returned to his hometown. It was a bribe, but it worked.

A few months after moving to Dallas, Littlefield made a New Year’s resolution to start writing regularly, and he had a new form of inspiration in Max.

“It was really important for me to have him when I first moved here and was living by myself,” he says. “He was really that companion for me for the first several months of coming back to a new place where I had no connections.

“I was going through some relationship stuff and weighty work stuff, and his presence reminded me of being there for people in the darker moments and in the most joyful moments too.”

Littlefield wrote once a week for the first year but has scaled back since accepting a new job as senior pastor of Lakewood United Methodist Church. The birth of his daughter, Lucy, also means less time for writing, but he still manages to post about once a month.

The post that still resonates with Littlefield is titled “Max is a dog.” Max can be frustrating when he slobbers, eats something gross or chases a rabbit — nearly yanking his owner’s arm out of its socket. But Max is a dog, and Littlefield says he must love and accept him in all his weird doggy ways — just as he is called to love and accept other people.

“The overarching theme that I go for is examining a frustration that turns into a realization of something valuable,” Littlefield says. “A big thing I have learned from Max is the value of observing the world around me with greater appreciation and openness. Practicing that intentional observation helps me be more in tune with the world and see the beauty of it. He teaches me to be more present and to welcome people in my life. He’s so open and generous with his attention.”

Above: Max is the inspiration for his owner’s blog. Opposite page: Photos of Max posted on the blog.

Story by JAIME DUNAWAY | Photography by DANNY FULGENCIO

“A big thing I have learned from Max is the value of observing the world around me with greater appreciation and openness.”

MEET YOUR D14 COUNCILMAN DAVID BLEWETT

LEARNING A NEW JOB is always difficult, but rarely does it entail scheduling more than 100 meetings in the first two months and reading a 1,000-page briefing manual. Such is the life of a first-time member on the Dallas City Council. Good thing District 14 Councilman David Blewett has never been one to give up easily.

“You’re drinking from a firehose,” Blewett says. “People say, ‘How are you doing it? How are you managing all these things?’ It’s because I wanted this job. If you really want something, you have a chance at it.”

This spring, the Lakewood Heights neighbor rose to the top of a three-candidate field and beat three-term Councilman Philip Kingston in a runoff election that surprised many. In 2013, Kingston beat Blewett in an election to replace Angela Hunt. This time,

Blewett rallied his base in the educational community and cruised to victory with 54 percent of the vote.

Blewett says his success is a sign that the district is changing. In a departure from Kingston’s aggressive methods, voters opted for the mortgage banker with a desire to change the culture at City Hall through compromise.

“Philip’s way of dealing with staff and constituents had become an issue,” Blewett says. “I have great respect for him, but I felt like the district was looking for a change. The way I do things is different. Our last City Council was significantly broken, and I got tired of it. I thought it was important to try to make it better.”

Although Blewett’s approach to solving problems may be radically different from

Story by JAIME DUNAWAY | Photography by DANNY FULGENCIO

David Blewett is representing one of the most diverse areas in Dallas as District 14’s new councilman.

“I like different kinds of people. District 14 is full of them, and I love it.”

Fall Market is in Session

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Kingston, the councilman says their values are similar. One of Blewett’s first priorities is to beef up public safety by hiring more cops and enforcing existing laws against porch thieves and speeding through the neighborhoods. He also hopes to improve infrastructure and address the crowded nature of schools caused by an influx of families moving to East Dallas.

With seven children enrolled in Dallas ISD schools, Blewett is well suited to address problems like the high turnover rate at the district’s schools. Teachers have come and gone, but the handful who remain have no trouble recognizing the Blewett kids who have passed through the Woodrow Wilson feeder pattern for more than a decade.

They attended long enough to remember when Mockingbird Elementary, the regional deaf school, required all its students to take sign language every year. Blewett’s older

children became fluent, and family dinners sometimes passed in silence as they conversed via hand signals.

“The teachers laugh at us we’ve been there so long,” Blewett says. “We’re the old-timers now.”

Blewett first moved to Dallas in 1984 to play football at Southern Methodist University. After graduating, he accepted a job in Detroit, but the winters didn’t suit him. He moved back to Texas for good in 1994.

While at a wedding in Ohio, Blewett met his wife, Kristin, and the two started dating long distance. She was looking for jobs in Cincinnati, but he sent her the classified ads in the Dallas Morning News with a note that said, “Dallas has a lot of jobs.” She took the bait. The couple settled in East Dallas, where they’ve lived for the past 25 years.

Blewett’s job as councilman has been an adjustment for the close-knit family.

Nightly meals around the dinner table have been scaled back to a few times a week, and it takes effort not to talk about work while on a date with his wife. Plus, with seven kids, there’s always a football game, basketball game or dance recital.

“We’re still figuring it out,” Blewett says. “It’s good there’s only eight years you can do this because it completely changes your life.”

District 14 is one of the most varied areas in Dallas with singlefamily neighborhoods in East Dallas, apartment-heavy streets in Uptown and the business centers of downtown. But Blewett doesn’t like calling it diverse.

“I prefer the word interesting,” he says. “You can have people that think alike and act alike but look a little bit different. I like different kinds of people. District 14 is full of them, and I love it.”

MARKETPLACE THE STORE IN LAKE HIGHLANDS

Clothing boutique and gift shop

The Store has thin, lightweight tops that will transition from the hot heat to the ordinary heat. Trust us! Plus, we can accessorize you as well.

Mon. – Sat. 9:30 – 5:30 9850 Walnut Hill Lane, Ste. 226 (at Audelia Rd) 214-553-8850 thestoreinlh.com

CITY VIEW ANTIQUE MALL

One of Dallas’ oldest antique malls

6830 Walling Ln. (off Skillman/Abrams) 214.752.3071 cityviewantiques.com

2019

YOGAMART

There is a new style of mat bag now available. Plus new prints of the other styles. Stop in soon for the best selection.

2201 Tucker Ste. 101 75214. 214-534-4469 yogamartusa.com

Think Fall! Come check out all the new arrivals. Friendly dealers (65), helpful service, and great shopping!

CURIOSITIES

Curious goods, for curious people!

Monday-Saturday 10-6

Sunday 12-5

ADVOCATE BEST OF Our neighborhood’s favorite things

You voted, check out the list of winners and runners-up in categories ranging from Best Burger to Best Local Attraction.

lakewood.advocatemag.com/ best-of-2019-winners/

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Don’t panic! Let a seasoned pro be the interface between you & that pesky windows computer. Hardware & software installation, troubleshooting, training, $60/hour — one hour minimum.

Independent Living at The Terraces

UNMATCHED

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ANNOUNCING THE TERRACES...

Now taking reservations for our new Independent Living apartments with unmatched location and unequaled lifestyle. To learn about priority advantages call our team at 214-380-0323 or visit ccyoung.org.

WHO LET THE PRAIRIE DOGS OUT?

“It’s a great pickup line. Women love to come back and see the prairie dogs,” he says as Bobosky shoots him a disapproving look.

Prairie dogs may seem as cute and playful as dogs — in fact, barking like dogs is how they got their name — but Bobosky says she can’t recommend them as pets. The rodents, closely related to squirrels, need a lot of time and special care.

The animals need their cage cleaned every day and restocked with Timothy hay that they chew to file their large incisors down to a reasonable size. They must also receive a special diet of vegetables, such as carrots and sweet potatoes, every other day — on top of a daily exercise regimen.

Here’s a message from Emily the prairie dog: p[3oiRT.

Prairie dog communication is so complex and expressive that it constitutes nothing less than a language. But unless anyone has Dr. Dolittle on speed dial, we may never know what Emily was trying to say.

As the pet prairie dog crawls across the keyboard, dashes across the floor and scurries up the shoulder of owner Shelby Bobosky, it’s safe to assume the message wasn’t a cry for help. She’s clearly having fun.

It’s a typical Tuesday night as Bobosky’s family of five gathers in the master bedroom for playtime with pet prairie dogs, Peter and Emily. The pair climb up their humans and perch on their heads, looking for the highest vantage point, before scampering back down. When they finally tire, they nestle into the crook of their owners’ arms.

“They’re really loving and affectionate,” Bobosky says. “They just love hanging out.”

Peter and Emily came to live with Bobosky and her husband, Michael Aigen, after being rescued from an exotic animal breeder in Houston. Authorities found more than 100 animals in stacks of filthy cages at an apartment and transferred some to the Houston Humane Society for treatment.

As staff members started looking for new owners, Bobosky seemed like the perfect candidate. As president of the Texas Humane Legislation Network, she could provide the specialized care that prairie dogs need to thrive as domestic pets.

Introducing Peter and Emily into her family was a delicate process. The first-time prairie dog owners learned a lot on the fly from Wikipedia, and many fingers got bit along the way.

But the prairie dogs quickly warmed to her three boys, 10-year-old Zarley, 8-yearold Ziggy and 5-year-old ZJ. The animals now feel at ease resting on the boys’ heads or crawling up their shirts if one of the brothers sees an opportunity to pull a prank. They were even willing participants in Zarley’s science project about what music prairie dogs like best. Discovering that they prefer classical to techno is just one reason why Zarley is considered the family’s prairie dog whisperer.

“When people find out we have prairie dogs, they’re surprised and interested,” he says. “They want to hear more. They want to see them in person to make sure we’re not making it up.”

Aigen has other ideas about their usefulness.

Besides the daily care, prairie dogs have a propensity to chew and dig. Peter, for example, tunneled his way through to the inside of an armchair. If given the chance, the pets will enlarge any existing holes in the house with their burrows. The instinct can’t be suppressed with training, so the family plans to install an aquarium filled with sand and dirt underneath their three-story cage.

When Bobosky first took them to the vet to get spayed and neutered, they awoke from anesthesia on the ride home, chewed through their cloth carrier and started crawling around the car traveling 75 mph down the highway.

Despite the mishaps, the prairie dogs bring an abundance of love and laughter to the family.

“We don’t want it to be a trendy thing because they’re difficult pets,” Bobosky says. “But now that we have them, we’re fortunate. They’ve taught our family a lot about empathy for rodents. I’m very attached to them.”

Watch a video of prairie dogs at play at lakewood.advocatemag.com.

HOW TWO PET RODENTS BURROWED THEIR WAY INTO ONE FAMILY’S HEART

“We don’t want it to be a trendy thing because they’re difficult pets.”

Story by JAIME DUNAWAY | Photography by DANNY FULGENCIO

A prairie dog crawls down Shelby Bobosky’s head.

Even dogs need to brush regularly

Pets in many ways are similar to owners. Pets too, need regular dental checkups and routine dental maintenance at home, to prolong a healthy body balance. At Rutherford Veterinary Hospital, Dr. Teri Rowan, DVM, says consistent attention to our pets’ teeth helps avoid tooth loss, periodontal disease and other detrimental oral issues.

Daily home brushing preserves our pets’ oral hygiene. While human toothpastes can contain ingredients toxic to pets, yummy pet-friendly varieties, flavored in attentiongetting peanut butter, beef, fish and chicken are available. If daily brushing isn’t do-able, Rutherford Veterinary Hospital can recommend healthy chew products to remove tartar, plaque and bacteria until time to visit the vet for a below-the-gumline cleaning.

ASK THE VET

VIVA LAS VEGAS

Veterinary oral check-ups supplement home care. X-rays can show invisible issues; professional scaling, root and jaw care can circumvent potentially severe infections that could affect body organs. These concerns pertain to cats as well as dogs, so call your vet with questions. Meanwhile, know your pets’ body language; they are good at hiding dental pain but a smelly mouth means there is potential trouble ahead.

Give Dr. Rowan a call today to learn more about dental care for your pet.

Greg Lorie and Monica zumFelde prefer catching fish to caring for them. Instead, their pet cat, Maxie, and blue heeler, Vegas, are a natural fit in the fishing household. The Lakewood couple adopted the 12-year-old dog during a fishing trip, and she still travels with them every year when they catch trout in northern Arkansas. “I would love to call her a city dog, but her heart is in the country,” zumFelde says. “She inspects our catches when we fish.” With paws like paddles, Vegas loves the water — and so does Maxie, their 2-year-old cat. She rolls around in the wet bathtub after her owners shower, and she carries her toy fish to the toilet or water bowl, as if to set them free. The stuffed trout meant for Vegas were a hit with Maxie, and she takes them everywhere, even to sleep. “If Vegas ever passes,” zumFelde says, “we’ll have to take Maxie on the fishing trips.”

GOT A PET YOU WANT US TO FEATURE?

Lakewood resident Teri Rowan, DVM

PAWS & CLAWS

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AT BETHANY CHRISTIAN CHURCH, EVERY SUNDAY IS A BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS

THE REV. LISA KLAUS stands at the pulpit and looks out over her congregation. As she scans the pews to see the familiar faces, she spots several furry friends sitting shoulder to shoulder with their owners.

It’s not an unusual sight at Bethany Christian Church, where fourlegged members are part of the family. For years, members brought their pets to after-hours meetings. So, about two years ago, the church decided to officially welcome all God’s creatures on the grounds and in the Sunday service.

“This is a very big pet community,” Klaus says. “We prayed about it and were led to do it. If individuals want to bring their pets to worship, we welcome that. It’s not just for the people who come every Sunday.”

Churchgoers displayed the announcement on the sign in front of the building, and it drew the attention of several neighbors, including a stray black cat someone saw staring at the letterboard, as if it wanted to attend.

“I’d never head of anything like it, so I thought I’d just go in and sit there,” says Cheryl Hudson, who has come for about a year and a half with her rat terrier, Elvis. “I came here to scoff, but I kept coming back, and I stayed.”

Story by JAIME DUNAWAY | Photography by DANNY FULGENCIO

Congregants hope the invitation will meet a need in the community, where many residences lack a yard. The lawn in front of the church serves as a mini dog park with a Little Free Library stocked with pet treats, waste bags and books that owners can read in lounge chairs while their pets play.

Neighbors have embraced the use of the lawn, but some are still hesitant to join for Sunday service. Occasionally, the reverend will notice residents listening to worship at the door with their pets — but they’re too shy to join. If

“I came here to scoff, but I kept coming back, and I stayed.”

they had, newcomers would have found greeters ready with dog and cat leashes and a community of pets that behave, remarkably, like angels while sitting in the pews.

“More and more people are coming as they see that we’re pet friendly, and we really mean it,” Klaus says.

On a Sunday morning in July, four dogs, a cat and about 20 people file into the small chapel on Oram Street. Dogs greet their pals with a friendly bark, and churchgoers welcome the pets with a belly rub or a pat on the head. During worship, dog barks mix with human voices as congregants lift a hymn of praise. Tails wag to the beat.

The most excitement comes during communion. The dogs zero in on the crackers and juice as they’re passed from person to person. Blake, a boxerpit bull mix, gets a bite from his owner, only to have his hopes dashed when the offering plate comes around, devoid

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OUR GROUP GETS RESULTS

Above: At Bethany Christian Church, pets sit with their owners during Sunday service.

of food. Seeing his disappointment, the server pulls a treat from his pocket.

“Blake loves churches,” owner Kim Higbie says. “We live next door, and sometimes he’ll just walk in there and get treats.”

The animals settle down once Klaus begins her sermon. The message is full of funny illustrations that resonate with people who enjoy pets in their lives. But when it becomes emotional, Elvis is there to wipe the tears from Hudson’s face.

Pets certainly help owners cope with the troubles of the world and provide a calming presence. Those qualities are celebrated each year at the church’s annual pet blessing, which takes place the first Sunday in October. During the 30-minute service, members sing songs about God’s creation, and Klaus leads the congregation in a prayer over the animals.

The service has become one of the most popular Sundays at Bethany Christian, with 18 pets blessed last year. Dogs like Rex Kirby’s standard poodle, Boudreaux, are the most common participants, but all furry, feathered and amphibious friends are welcome.

“Dogs bring joy to people,” Kirby says, “and in a church, that’s really special.”

Above: Millie rests on owner Leta Durrett’s shoulder during a hymn. Right: Blake leans into the aisle, looking for a treat.

SEOUL SOUL

BBBOP SERVES KOREAN FUSION FOR TEXAS APPETITES

WHEN SANDRA AND GREG BUSSEY opened their first Korean restaurant, customers weren’t receptive to traditional Korean food. Now, the traditional bi bim bop, the “For Realz Bop” as they call it, is one of their best-sellers.

Dallas wasn’t accustomed to Korean food 11 years ago, so the mixture of hot rice and meat with cold, blanched veggies turned some people away. The Busseys experimented with fusion-style dishes that incorporated Chinese and Thai influences with “Korean DNA,” then began adding items like chicken wings and tacos.

They followed their customers’ taste buds until it came full circle — diners wanted

BBBop

something more traditional. Now the menu is an eclectic mix of traditional Korean flavors, fusion dishes and unique creations inspired by customer requests.

“Our goal with BBBop has always been to introduce Korean to the masses,” Sandra says. “We never wanted to be that true, traditional Korean place. When we get Koreans in, they say, ‘This isn’t real Korean food.’ We blatantly say, ‘You’re absolutely right.’”

BBBop was never supposed to be about tradition. It was created to give Dallas an introduction to Korean when it didn’t have a lot of quick, healthy options. When BBBop first opened, the owners didn’t even want

Seoul Kitchen

Story by CHRISTIAN WELCH | Photography by KATHY TRAN

The For Realz Bop in a hot stone bowl.

fryers, microwaves or a fridge. As time went on, customers craved dishes like wings. They became so popular that the couple caved and bought fryers. The menu morphed into a reflection of the Busseys’ culinary background, their culture and their customers.

“The reason we have orange chicken on the menu, the orange bop, is because we had so many customers coming in saying, ‘I want orange chicken. Where’s your orange chicken?’” Sandra says. “We didn’t have fryers, so we made an orange flavored bowl.”

While the Busseys’ menu is a creative, collaborative effort with their customers, the techniques are a pure reflection of the couple’s fine-dining background. The two are meticulous about making every sauce and brine for their restaurant. They even cook their pork belly sous vide. But they make sure to keep prices down so BBBop remains an affordable, healthy option for families and young professionals.

A fan favorite, the fried chicken, was inspired by a family trip to Seoul. The Kyochon fried chicken was so addictive, family members waited to eat until late in the evening so they could order it. When they returned to the United States, they created their own version, and it became a best-seller.

DID YOU KNOW?

Sandra’s 70-yearold parents roll every pot sticker and egg roll by hand.

Asian chicken salad with mint.

PET TÊTE -ÀTÊTE

CHECK OUT OUR NEIGHBORHOOD’S MOST AMAZING ANIMAL

STORIES: SNACKAGAWEA THE GUINEA PIG, OSO THE THERAPY DOG, COCO THE CHICKEN AND ALBIE THE RESCUED PIG

Story

by

CLAIRE CROW | Portraits

by

DANNY FULGENCIO

SNACKAGAWEA, GONZO GUINEA PIG

Aguinea pig lurking in the brush of the Santa Fe Trail caught the attention of many puzzled joggers last year. Why had a tiny domestic creature gone rogue in the wilderness?

Facebook exploded with posts from concerned and confused neighbors. Everyone was talking about the rakish rodent, but few had the desire to step in and rescue it. Neighbor and vet clinic employee Liz Howerton rose to the challenge.

"Some people on Facebook were saying that the guinea pig was just coyote food, that this was just the circle of life," Howerton says. "My co-worker joined me, and we took a long lunch break to try and get it."

Not long after Howerton's rescue mission began, the gonzo guinea pig emerged from the high grass and stopped right in front of them.

"Then like Sacagawea, she was guiding us through the grass. That's why her name is Snackagawea," Howerton says. Howerton is now the proud owner of Snackagawea. But capturing her wasn't easy. She had to return later that day

with a squirrel trap and a trail of kale to lure the wayward rodent. Soon enough, Snackagawea munched her way into the trap and became a house pet once more.

"She was probably abandoned by her former owners," Howerton says. "She would have starved to death if she wasn't rescued."

Guinea pigs depend on hay, pellets and carrots for proper sustenance. Snackagawea is crazy for carrots. Whenever her owners walk through the front door with grocery sacks, she squeals, hoping they brought home a tasty treat.

O IS FOR OSO, THE OUTSTANDING THERAPY DOG

Most neighbors have a case of the weekend blues on Monday morning, but one perky poodle is eager to get out the door for his workday. For Oso the therapy dog, Mondays mean jumping in the car with owner and Alex Sanger Elementary administrator Casey Stewart for an action-packed school day.

"Whenever I bring out the official vest he wears to work, his eyes light up, and his tail

starts wagging,” Stewart says. “He can't wait to see the kids, and it definitely shows.”

This exciting routine wasn’t the norm for Oso a few years ago. As a puppy, he was born with features undesirable to breeders and buyers. Poodles must have black eyes and black noses, and Oso did not meet the criteria with his livercolored nose and green eyes, Stewart says. By default, Oso became a "discount dog.”

Stewart, a licensed professional counselor, looked past his rare facial features and took him into her home. Now, Oso's family and the students at Alex Sanger can't get enough of him.

"I use that as a teachable moment for the kids,” Stewart says. “It doesn't matter if you're different. Oso was unwanted for his physical features, but that's what you guys like about him.”

That isn't the only lesson the kids learn from him. Oso and Stewart help students with social-emotional learning. In other words, Oso teaches the kids how to better understand and manage their emotions.

"When I bring Oso to a classroom, I teach the kids how to approach the dog and interact with him in a controlled manner," Stewart says. "It's a really good life lesson about boundaries, personal space and social cues."

Kids with anxiety and learning disabilities have made progress in the classroom with Oso. If students are in a state of high anxiety or are having difficulties in the classroom, teachers allow them to pay a special visit to Oso to help them regroup.

Not to mention, students bond over their love for him. Plans for Oso include certification tests to work with wheelchairs, canes and walkers so he can continue helping different types of

When Oso isn't on the job, he enjoys swimming, running or playing with his poodle brother Scout, a therapy puppy in training.

COCO FLUFF

When Laura BridwellMeyeres awakens, a chicken squawks hello in the living room, and 12 backyard hens await their daily dose of watermelon and mealworms.

Coco, a frizzle mille fleur chicken with breast-beating energy, fine feathered feet and a Nashville-hot personality, has made the household her queenly coop.

"Whenever she wants to join us in the living room, she'll just hop down from her cage and walk in," Bridwell-Meyeres says. "She's kind of wild and crows for attention, but she's super sensitive and protective."

That's a lot of confidence for a hen of Coco's size. Once the smallest bird in the backyard coop, she was bullied by the other chickens. Her owners had no choice but to turn Coco into a house pet before the foul fowls pecked her to death. Coco may not have been able to hold her own in the “Lord of the Flies” coop, but she demands respect from the humans and dogs with whom she shares a roof.

"Even though dogs are supposed to bite or growl at birds, our two dogs don't attack her because they know she's part of our tribe," BridwellMeyeres says.

Raising a feisty house chicken and caring for peckish peeps out back requires more than a bantam amount of time and labor. Why

do it? Coco and company offer the family more than just a dozen daily eggs.

"Life lessons. That's what it's all about," Bridwell-Meyeres says as her two young daughters walk in with Coco in arm and set her on the table. "We've learned so much from our chickens."

Growing up with a chicken teaches lessons about life and death, she says. Bridwell-Meyeres reminisces about the two chickens she had as a girl and says she wants her daughters to have the same memorable, sometimes difficult, experience.

"They get to see that it's a good act to take care of these living creatures," she says. "It's worth it."

A daughter interrupts her, saying, "I don't think it's worth it. I don't like death."

Over the years, the family has cared for chickens that are sick or disabled and need to be fed by hand. A chicken typically costs around $4, but the lessons that Coco and her feathered friends teach are priceless.

ALBIE, THE AMAZING PRINCESS PIG

Albie, a rescued Juliana pig named after Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore, lives a magical life.

Rather than casting spells at the school of witchcraft and wizardry, Albie is content to play in the yard with his best friend, a black cat named Sirius, and cuddle with owner Alden Mills.

A Casa Linda neighbor, Mills works as a tattoo artist at Suffer City. After rescuing Albie from a breeder near Houston, Mills spent the car ride home brainstorming possible names. The Harry Potter fan considered naming him Draco or another character from the series, but when she suggested Albie, the pig seemed to nod his agreement.

At 13 weeks, Albie was more than

twice the age of most adopted pigs, and Mills worried that he was too old to socialize. When she first brought him home, he didn’t want to be touched. But the first-time pig owner diligently slept on the floor with Albie until he fell asleep.

“A lot of times you’ll get a pig that’s disinterested in you, but [my boyfriend and I] worked day and night to get him to trust us,” Mills says. “I couldn’t stand the thought of him getting older and not knowing love.”

Now, Albie expects a spot on the bed and trails Mills around the house like a puppy. The pig barks at the mail carrier and bellies up for tummy rubs. He also comforts Mills’ dogs when they get spooked by loud noises.

“Pigs don’t realize [their size] and can trample over everybody, but Albie is so gentle and good,” Mills says. “I didn’t know he’d be the easiest pet I’d ever have. I think I raised a princess.”

But like any Slytherin, Albie can be naughty and mischievous. One day, when Mills was scooping the litter box, Albie discovered a scent that drove him mad. He barreled behind Mills, grabbed the bag and ran through the house, slinging litter and

cat poop everywhere. Instead of acting guilty, Albie licked his lips in delight.

Despite the occasional mishap, Mills says Albie is even easier to care for than her six dogs and four cats. The trick is to keep him entertained. A bored pig is a bad pig, she says. So, the owner is working with Albie on several enrichment activities that he’ll need to demonstrate to register as a therapy pig. He is practicing ringing a bell, walking through a hoop and taking treats gently instead of greedily snatching them.

The 1-year-old pig eats two salads a day and will weigh up to 80 pounds when fully grown.

“People get pigs because on Instagram, it’s cute, it’s trendy, it’s popular,” Mills says. “But pigs grow up, and the size is an issue. They are suddenly unwanted and disposable. People say, ‘It didn’t stay 35 pounds. I don’t want it anymore.’”

Mills dreams of one day opening a sanctuary for unwanted pigs and senior dogs.

“I battle with depression, and these animals saved me,” she says. “It’s the most unconditional love.”

— JAIME DUNAWAY

SCOUT’S HONOR

HOW A BOY SCOUT BECAME A SANTA FE TRAIL BENEFACTOR

by a local Boy Scout.

As part of his Eagle Scout project, 14-year-old Abe Randle proposed installing a water fountain, bench and trash can on an underserved section of trail between Beacon Street and Henderson Avenue. Abe, an avid biker, sketched several diagrams and presented them to the Park and Recreation Department, which agreed to move forward with his design.

“It’s exactly what I imagined it

Above: Abe Randle cuts the ribbon at a new rest area on the Santa Fe Trail. Below: The rest area between Beacon Street and Henderson Avenue.

Story by JAIME DUNAWAY | Photography courtesy of BARRY RANDLE

ALONG A SUNNY STRETCH of the Santa Fe Trail, walkers and bikers can refuel at a new rest area spearheaded

being,” Abe says. “I’m very happy with that because I put a lot of work into it, and I’m glad they respected my idea.”

The teen then went to work fundraising for the project, which cost more than $8,000. The City of Dallas covered the cost of the bench, cement and labor, but Abe had to find private donors to pay for the rest. He raised about $4,000.

With help from his dad, Barry Randle, treasurer of Friends of the Santa Fe Trail, the Boy Scout partnered with the nonprofit, which matched his fundraising dollars.

“We’re always looking to work with civic organizations and community groups to bring additional amenities to the trail,” says Brad Grist, president of Friends of the Santa Fe Trail. “When Abe came to us, it was a no-brainer. We like to see young people engaged in bettering their community.”

The rest area was completed about four months after Abe first presented his idea, and it opened to the public in July with a ribbon cutting. Abe’s troop, as well as several board members from Friends of the Santa Fe Trail and the Park and Recreation Department, were in attendance.

During the ceremony, several bikers stopped to use the water fountain, which will eventually be replaced with the trail’s first water bottle filler.

“It was cool to see people using it already,” Barry says. “That’s what it’s there for.”

Abe Randle, center, in front of a water fountain.

6333 E. Mockingbird @ Abrams Tom Thumb Shopping Center Ste. #275

smile

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OUR NEIGHBORHOOD

By PATTI VINSON

A puppy named Hope

How a beagle, black-mouth cur and golden retriever rescue the grief-stricken

“Animals are such agreeable friends,” mused novelist George Eliot. “They ask no questions; they pass no criticisms.”

Studies show they also have the power to lower our blood pressure, reduce our anxiety and increase our level of oxytocin, a hormone that helps us feel happy and trusting. Fortunately, therapy dogs and their humans live right here in our neighborhood.

First there’s Hope. Literally. Hope is a beagle who serves the clients at the Grief and Loss Center, housed in, though not affiliated with, Wilshire Baptist Church on Abrams. The nonprofit offers individual and group support to anyone who has lost a loved one. “Coming here is hard,” says Executive Director Laurie Taylor. “But Hope helps people relax, open up and feel at home.”

Hope was just 4 months old when she saw her first client, and she proved to be a natural. A young woman whose mom had suddenly died came to the center to meet with Taylor. She first sat with Hope on the couch and then moved to the floor to play with the dog while she expressed her disbelief and grief. When the woman began to cry, Hope stopped playing and sat in the client’s lap, cuddling and burying her head. As the client continued to talk about her mom, she stroked Hope’s ears while the dog fell asleep in her lap. Even though Hope is an active puppy, she remained in that position until the client stood to leave and then followed her to the door to say goodbye.

The young beagle with the soulful eyes is present for every session. She has comforted all ages, from toddlers to 90-year-olds. She has helped folks work through grief from suicides, homicides, accidents and natural deaths. Interestingly, she seems to consistently follow

her own internal, intuitive script: first, engage in play; indulge petting; become still and quiet when the tears flow; place head on person’s legs; curl up in their lap.

Of course, Hope is popular with the children who attend support groups. She senses when it’s time for the children to arrive and waits for them by the elevator.

process that can be very scary and intimidating,” she says.

Advocacy center therapists use dogs to teach children coping skills, such as assertiveness. The dog plays a role by being “trained” by the child to respond to simple commands, such as “sit.” The process builds the child’s self-esteem and confidence.

Lakewood Heights neighbors Shea and Katie Putnam know firsthand the support their therapy dog, Cannoli, has provided to a child at the center. Here’s what a young girl wrote about Cannoli: “If it weren’t for him, I don’t think I would have made it through this.”

“When the elevator opens, we often think Hope’s tail is going to fall off because she wags it so quickly,” Taylor says. “She knows the children are going to give her lots of pats and belly rubs.”

Taylor says Hope offers clients not only the physical touch of a living being, but also unconditional love and acceptance. There’s no judgment about how people grieve.

Another East Dallas agency, Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center, uses the healing power of canines to help abused children. Volunteer Karen Woltman recounts how her previous therapy pup, Tusko, sat with children during therapy sessions. Current dog, Dallas, does the same.

Canines are also helpful when a child is interviewed to determine if abuse occurred. In addition, therapy dogs can be helpful during court proceedings when children give testimony.

“The dog, just with his or her presence, can lend support to the child during a

Therapy dogs can also be helpful to those struggling with mental illness. Junius Heights resident Lora Brown has visited mental health facilities with her dog, Beejay, a black-mouth cur. He offered support to patients dealing with depression, suicide attempts and other difficulties.

Though dogs can be therapeutic to those dealing with grief, trauma and mental illness, they are equally helpful in educational settings. Lakewood Heights neighbor Ellen Aster Bruder is a reading specialist at a suburban elementary school and is accompanied each day by Tucker, her golden retriever.

“I bring him to school with me, and my reluctant readers read to him,” she says.

Brown says, “I think anyone who is an animal lover knows just how much they can help us emotionally, mentally and physically. Being able to give some of that to others and make a difference is amazing.”

For more information, visit: dcac.org and mygriefandloss.org.

PATTI VINSON is a guest writer who has lived in East Dallas for more than 15 years. She’s written for the Advocate and Real Simple magazine.

“I think anyone who is an animal lover knows just how much they can help us emotionally, mentally and physically.”

Hope works with people who have lost a loved one. (Photography by Danny Fulgencio.)

WORSHIP

By GEORGE MASON

Animal magnetism

Lessons from Simba and Mufasa

The new movie, “The Lion King,” is an achievement in animation, but the appeal is more than technological wonder. The story is perennial truth that catches us off guard because we think we are merely being entertained by animated animals.

Throughout this edition of the Advocate, you will read about our devotion to our pets. The link between the animal and human kingdoms in our everyday lives produces a wholesome benefit to both. Companionship, mutual affection and simple pleasure are just a few things we cherish.

When a movie featuring talking animals in the wild draws us in, we are apt to consider the meaning of reality in a way classroom courses in philosophy, theology and political science can’t elicit.

Biblical motifs abound in “The Lion King.” The young prince, Simba, is presented by the baboon priest in a dedication ceremony familiar to any religious tradition. Simba later stands in the water and hears the voice of his father in the heavens speaking words of blessing to him, just like Jesus did at his own baptism in the Jordan River. We should understand this as more than a messianic message. It’s a universal affirmation of divine love and human duty.

How should we use power? The contrast between Simba’s father, Mufasa, and his uncle, Scar, reveals two understandings of leadership. Scar views the world as ripe for the taking, and the consequence is a despoiling of nature that threatens the whole ecology. Mufasa sees his rule as a matter of protecting the delicate balance of creation and creatures. He exercises power to protect others, not to benefit himself. Compassion and love are the virtues that bring harmony and peace to the kingdom.

The temptation to defy authority to prove oneself is the lesson of the Garden of Eden that Simba re-enacts, along with every one of us, as he sets off in defiance of his father’s instruction about the shad-

owy place ruled by ravenous hyenas. He quickly learns that true freedom is found in obedience to what is good, not in the lure of doing whatever one pleases.

Is life a straight line of red tooth and claw, eat or be eaten, and then you die? Or is there a circle of life in which ancestors and progeny continue to interact in ways that perpetuate honor beyond time? “Hakuna matata” — no worries — makes a lovely song, but living only for the moment leaves one with nothing noble to live and die for.

WORSHIP

BAPTIST

PARK CITIES BAPTIST CHURCH / 3933 Northwest Pky / pcbc.org

Bible Study 9:15 / Worship Services 10:45 Traditional, Contemporary, Spanish Speaking / 214.860.1500

ROYAL LANE BAPTIST CHURCH / 6707 Royal Lane / 214.361.2809

Christian Education 9:45 a.m. / Worship Service 10:55 a.m.

Pastor - Rev. Dr. Michael L. Gregg / www.royallane.org

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

DISCIPLES OF CHRIST

EAST DALLAS CHRISTIAN CHURCH / 629 N. Peak Street / 214.824.8185

Sunday School 9:30 am / Worship 8:30 am - Chapel

10:50 am - Sanctuary / Rev. Deborah Morgan-Stokes / edcc.org

LUTHERAN

CENTRAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, ELCA / 1000 Easton Road

A Welcoming and Affirming Church / Pastor Rich Pounds

Sunday School 9:00 am / Worship 10:30 am / CentralLutheran.org

FIRST UNITED LUTHERAN CHURCH (ELCA) / 6202 E Mockingbird Lane

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

METHODIST

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

Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School / 10:30 am Coffee

Worship: 8:30 am & 11:00 am Traditional / 11:00 am Contemporary

LAKEWOOD UMC / 2443 Abrams Rd. / 214.823.9623

Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 am / mylakewoodchurch.org

Messy Church for Children and Families Sunday 5:00 pm

MUNGER PLACE CHURCH / Come & See

Sunday: Morning Worship: 9:30 & 11:00 am Evening Worship 5:00 pm 5200 Bryan Street / mungerplace.org

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

LAKE POINTE CHURCH – WHITE ROCK CAMPUS

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

LAKEWOOD FELLOWSHIP / Sundays 9:30 am White Rock YMCA / 7112 Gaston Ave LakewoodFellowship.org / Lakewood@LakewoodFellowship.org

In the end, loving one’s neighbor is a strategy for those who love and for those who are loved. It applies to caring for our pets, the people who live next door and those coming across our southern border. What’s at stake is everything.

Genuine love requires courage and the bravery to face your fears in defense of others. It’s sacrifice more than sentiment. But sacrificial love is the deepest revelation of reality. The cost is great, either way.

GEORGE MASON is pastor of Wilshire Baptist Church, president of Faith Commons and host of the “Good God” podcast. The Worship section is underwritten by Advocate Publishing and the neighborhood businesses and churches listed here. For information about helping support the Worship section, call 214.560.4202.

THE CHURCH AT JUNIUS HEIGHTS / 5429 Reiger Ave. Services Sundays at 10:30 am / Pastor Sam Dennis 214-377-0396 / thechurchatjuniusheights.org

PRESBYTERIAN

NORTHRIDGE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH / 6920 Bob-O-Link Dr. 214.827.5521 / www.northridgepc.org / Worship 10:00 am Church that feels like church and welcomes like family.

PRESTON HOLLOW PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH / 9800 Preston Road

8:15 am Chapel, 9:30 & 11:00 am Sanctuary, 5:00 pm Founder’s Hall Senior Pastor Matthew E. Ruffner / www.phpc.org / 214.368.6348

ST. ANDREW’S PRESBYTERIAN / 3204 Skillman St. Rev. Rob Leischner / www.standrewsdallas.org

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

UNITY

UNITY ON GREENVILLE / Your soul is welcome here! 3425 Greenville Ave. / 214.826.5683 / www.dallasunity.org

Sunday Service 11:00 am and Metaphysical Bible Study 9:30 am

“When a movie featuring talking animals in the wild draws us in, we are apt to consider the meaning of reality in a way classroom courses in philosophy, theology and political science can’t elicit. ”

WHERE CAN I FIND LOCAL ...?

AC & HEAT

Air Conditioning

Roofing + Insulation

Commercial + Residential Sales + Service

Putting the ‘i’ back into earth through integrity, innovation, inspiring change.

214- 330 - 5500 iiirth.com

TACLB29169E

APPLIANCE REPAIR

JESSE’S A/C & APPLIANCE SERVICE

TACLB13304C All Makes/Models. 214-660-8898

BUY/SELL/TRADE

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

CABINETRY & FURNITURE

CABINETMAKER Design/Build Custom Furniture. Repair, Refinish. 40 yrs. exp. Jim 214-457-3830

SQUARE NAIL WOODWORKING

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

CLASSES/TUTORING/LESSONS

ART THE FUN WAY W/JANE CROSS

Art Cub: Mon’s. 12:30-2:30pm, Free For LHNRC

Members 13-Up. Lake Highlands N. Rec. Ctr. Drawing, Painting: Weds. 10:15-1:15 pm. $15 Class/$60 month. 214-534-6829

WRITING/EDITING HELP FOR APPLICANTS

Applying to HS, college, grad school? Struggling with your essays? I can improve your submission. Reasonable rates. Steve Long 972-849-4205

CLEANING SERVICES

ALTOGETHER CLEAN

Relax ...We’ll Clean Your House, It Will Be Your Favorite Day! Bonded & Insurance. Free Estimates. 214-929-8413. www. altogetherclean.net

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

WANTED: HOUSES TO TIDY, Organize, De-clutter, or Pack. Sunny 214-724-2555

WINDOW MAN WINDOW CLEANING.COM

Residential Specialists. BBB. 214-718-3134

COMPUTERS & ELECTRONICS

ALL COMPUTER PROBLEMS SOLVED

MAC/PC Great Rates. Keith. 214-295-6367

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

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

CONFUSED? FRUSTRATED? Let a seasoned pro be the interface between you & that pesky Windows computer. Hardware/Software Installation, Troubleshooting, Training. $60/hr. 1 hr min. Dan 972-639-6413 / stykidan@sbcglobal.net

CONCRETE/MASONRY/PAVING

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

BRICK, STONEWORK, FLAGSTONE PATIOS Mortar Repair. Straighten Brick Mailboxes & Columns. Call Cirilo 214-298-7174

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

CONCRETE, RETAINING WALLS 25 yrs exp. T&M Construction, Inc. 214-328-6401

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

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

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

ANTHONY’S ELECTRIC Master Electrician. TECL24948 anthonyselectricofdallas.com

50 Yrs. Electrical Exp. Insd. 214-328-1333

BRIGHT LIGHT ELECTRIC • 214-553-5333 TECL 31347 Brightening Homes and Businesses

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

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

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

WHITE ROCK ELECTRIC All Electrical Services. Lic/Insd.TECL-34002 214-850-4891

EXTERIOR CLEANING

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

OCTOBER DEADLINE SEPTEMBER 4

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.

FENCING & DECKS

4 QUALITY FENCING • 214-507-9322

Specializing in Wood. YourWoodmaster.com

AMBASSADOR FENCE CO.

Automatic Gates, Fences/Decks, Pergolas, Patio Covers, Arbors. AmbassadorFenceCo.com 214-621-3217

FENCING, ARBORS, DECKS oldgatefence.com 214-766-6422

HANNAWOODWORKS.COM

Decks, Pergolas, Patio Covers. 214-435-9574

LONESTARDECKS.COM 214-357-3975

Trex Decking & Fencing, trex.com All Wood Decks, Arbors & Patio Covers

FLOORING & CARPETING

CALL EMPIRE TODAY To Schedule A Free In -Home Estimate On Carpeting & Flooring. 1-800-508-2824

DALLAS HARDWOODS 214-724-0936

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

HASTINGS STAINED 214-341-5993

Hardwoods- Install/Refinish/Stain. Stained & Sealed Concrete. hastingsfloors.com

WILLEFORD HARDWOOD FLOORS

214-824-1166 • WillefordHardwoodFloors.com

FOUNDATION REPAIR

• Slabs • Pier & Beam

• Mud Jacking

• Drainage

• Free Estimates

• Over 20 Years Exp. 972-288-3797

We Answer Our Phones

GARAGE SERVICES

IDEAL GARAGE DOORS • 972-757-5016

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

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

UNITED GARAGE DOORS AND GATES Res/Com. Locally Owned. 214-251-5428

GLASS, WINDOWS & DOORS

EC0NOMY GLASS & MIRROR Mirror, Shower, Windows Repair. 24 Hr. Emergency. 214-875-1127

LAKE HIGHLANDS GLASS & MIRROR

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

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

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

HANDYMAN SERVICES

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

HANDYMAN SERVICES

DANHANDY.NET Repairs Done Right For A Fair Price. References 214-991-5692

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

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

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

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

ONE CALL WEEKEND SERVICES

Contractor & Handyman. Remodels, Renovations . Paint, Plumbing, Drywall, Electrical.469-658-9163

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

972-6-PAINT-1 Int/Ext Paint & Drywall. A+ Quality. Call Kirk Evans 972-672-4681.

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

RAMON’S INT/EXT PAINT Sheetrock, Repairs. 214-679-4513

TONY’S PAINTING SERVICE Quality Work Since 1984. Int./Ext. 214-755-2700

TOP COAT 30 yrs. exp. Reliable, Quality Repair/Remodel Phil @ 214-770-2863

VIP PAINTING & DRYWALL Int/Ext. Sheetrock Repair, Resurfacing Tubs, Counters, Tile Repairs. 469-774-7111

HOME INSPECTION

BOOK YOUR HOME INSPECTION TODAY hardwoodhomeinspections.com

214-697-6173 TREC #23765

KITCHEN/BATH/TILE/GROUT

BLAKE CONSTRUCTION CONCEPTS LLC

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

FENN CONSTRUCTION Full Service Contractor. dallastileman.com 214-343-4645

MELROSE TILE James Sr., Installer, Repairs. 40 Yrs. Exp. MelroseTile.com 214-384-6746

STONE AGE COUNTER TOPS Granite, Quartz, Marble For Kitchen/Bath-Free Est. jennifer@gmail.com 214-412-6979

TK REMODELING 972-533-2872

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

LAWNS, GARDENS & TREES

#1 WHITE ROCK TREE WIZARDS

Professionals, Experts, Artists. Trim, Remove, Cabling, Bracing/Bolting. Cavity-Fill Stump Grind. Emergencies, Hazards. Insd. Free Est. 972-803-6313. arborwizard.com

CHUPIK TREE SERVICE

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

DALLAS K.D.R.SERVICES • 214-349-0914

Lawn Service & Landscape Installation

HOLMAN IRRIGATION

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

MAYA TREE SERVICE Tree Trim/Remove. Lawn Maintenance. Resd/ Commcl.Insd. CC’s Accptd. mayatreeservice.com

214-924-7058 214-770-2435

NEW LEAF TREE, LLC

Honest, Modern, Safety Minded. 214-850-1528

PAT TORRES 214-388-1850 Lawn Service & Tree Care. 28 Yrs. Complete Landscape Renovation. New Fence Install & Brick Repair. Concrete Removal and Gutter Cleaning. RED SUN LANDSCAPES • 214-935-9779 RedSunLandscapes.com

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

LEGAL SERVICES

A WILL? THERE IS A WAY! Estate/Probate matters.maryglennattorney.com 214-802-6768

PEST CONTROL

A BETTER EARTH PEST CONTROL

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

MCDANIEL PEST CONTROL

Prices Start at $85 + Tax For General Treatment.

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

NATURE KING PEST MANAGEMENT, INC

Squirrels, Rats, Racoon, etc. removal. Best Rates. Since 1994. Same Day Service Available. Rated 5.0 Star on Google. 214-827-0090 natureking.com

PET SERVICES

THE POOCH PATIO Daycare, Boarding, Training, Taxi, Spa. 214-252-1550 thepoochpatio.com

WINSTON ABBEY PETS

Fur Babies, Dog Walking, Pet Sitting, etc. Insured & Bonded, winstonabbey.com, 214-808-8993

NEED A PLUMBER?

Look here for local professionals.

PLUMBING

AC PLUMBING Repairs, Fixtures, Senior Discounts. Gary Campbell. 214-321-5943

ANDREWS PLUMBING • 214-354-8521

# M37740 Insured. Any plumbing issues.

HAYES PLUMBING INC. Repairs. Insured, 214-343-1427 License M13238

POOLS

CERULEAN POOL SERVICES Family Owned/ Operated. Weekly maintenance, Chemicals, parts & repairs. CeruleanPro.com 214-557-6996

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

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

ACCOUNTING/TAXES Small Business/Individual Chris King, CPA 214-824-5313 chriskingcpa.com

C.A.S. BOOKKEEPING SERVICES

Personal/Small Business. Payroll, Accounting, Organizing, Consult. Cindy 214-577-7450

REMODELING

A2H GENERAL CONTRACTING,LLC

Remodeling, Painting, Drywall/Texture, Plumbing, Electrical,Siding, Bathroom/Kitchen Remodels, Tilling, Flooring, Fencing. 469-658-9163. Free Estimates.

A2HGeneralContractingLLC@gmail.com

REMODELING

BLAKE CONSTRUCTION CONCEPTS, LLC

Complete Remodeling, Kitchens, Baths, Additions. Hardie Siding & Replacement Windows. Build On Your Own Lot. Insured. www.blake-construction.com 214-563-5035

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

FENN CONSTRUCTION Kitchens And Baths. Call Us For Your Remodeling Needs. 214-343-4645. dallastileman.com

INTEX CONSTRUCTION Specializing in int/ext. Remodel. 30 Yrs Exp. Steve Graves 214-875-1127

MP ARCHITECTURAL Design & Construction. mattandpaul.com 214-226-1186

O’BRIEN GROUP INC. Remodeling Dallas For Over 17 Years www.ObrienGroupInc.com 214-341-1448

Residential • Commercial (214) 503-7663

www.scottexteriors.com

SERVICES FOR YOU

A PLACE FOR MOM The Nation’s Largest Senior Living Referral Service. Contact Our Trusted Local Experts Today. Our Service is Free/No Obligation. 1-844-722-7993

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DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance company. Not just a discount plan. Real coverage for (350) procedures. 1-877-308-2834. dental50plus.com/cadnet 6118-0219

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KILL BED BUGS Harris Sprays, mattress covers, kits, available. Hardware Stores. The Home Depot. homedepot.com

NEED TO RENT MASSAGE SPACE Weekly, Thursday or Friday - 1/2 hour between 1-2pm. Once every 2 months, Sunday pm for 1 hour. Germaine 214-826-5009

OLD GUITARS & AMPS WANTED Gibson, Fender, Martin All Brands. Top Dollar Paid. 1-866-433-8277.

SPECTRUM TRIPLE PLAY TV, Internet & Voice for $99.97/month. Fastest internet 100 MB per second speed. Free prime time on demand. Unlimited voice. No Contracts. 855-652-9304.

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”WE CARE ABOUT YOUR TREES”

OUR CITY

By MITA HAVLICK

Why are our streets so horrible?

I don’t want to live in the suburbs, but I do covet their streets

If you’re happy in life, the path you’ve traveled — with all its winding roads and perpetual forks — is what brought you here. If you’re unhappy, remember that life is a journey, and the road will continue.

My life today is good — great, even — affirming for me that the roads I traversed, including the ones not taken, were the right path.

It’s rather ironic that my current road, the one I live on, sucks.

I don’t covet much, but I do envy nice streets.

We traveled to Scottsdale, Arizona, last winter to see my parents, and after reaching the summit of Camelback Mountain, I was mesmerized by the pristine condition of the black pavement below, taking for granted the beauty of the natural surroundings. We visited castles and historic cities in Europe a year ago, but my memories are filled with beautifully smooth streets.

Ellum. It’s the pristine, sans-pothole ridden streets in front of them.

I was teased a few months ago when I witnessed a City of Dallas street repair sign at the end of my street. I called the phone number on the sign to ask how far the repairs would extend. He replied, “From Homer to Homer,” which didn’t make sense until I realized they were repaving the intersection from one side of Homer to the other.

short time, quickly coming to terms that our neighbors, too, deserve a bicycle friendly street, even though ours is an official bike lane.

Closer to home, I feel a letdown whenever I cross the Katy Trail and drive into Highland Park — or pretty much anywhere outside city limits. It’s not the huge houses or large yards I covet, especially when I have access to the Granada, White Rock Lake and Deep

To be clear, this isn’t all about me. Every single one of us deserves to be #blessed with above subpar infrastructure. A few days ago, while walking my dog around the neighborhood, I noticed that the street directly north of us was being repaved. My first instinct was, “WHAT?! Our street is totally worse!” But I remained affronted for only a

There are pockets around East Dallas where all is copacetic, and I’m happy for you if you live on Swiss Avenue. But I challenge anyone in East Dallas to drive within a 2-mile radius of where you are and not confront a pothole or a poor patch job. Oh, and Abrams south of the Whole Foods and Grand from Gaston to Buckner don’t count. I’m betting you can’t do it. I know this because the City of Dallas has a handy dandy interactive pavement condition map online where you can check all of our streets, color coded and rated from the few that are good and excellent to most that are fair, poor and failed.

“I challenge anyone in East Dallas to drive within a 2-mile radius of where you are and not confront a pothole or a poor patch job.”

I spoke to former District 9 City Councilman Mark Clayton to learn some background. He told me that in October 2016, the Dallas City Council held 31 public hearings asking residents to name their biggest concerns. Overwhelmingly, those who attended answered, “Fix my streets.”

The feedback fed directly into the 2017 $1.05 billion bond package, of which $534 million is allocated to street and transportation improvement. A large portion of those funds are earmarked to fixing our roads. Clayton also gave me some much-needed perspective.

Dallas, as the center of a large metro area, has chosen to support more than streets and infrastructure. In recent years, the City has made significant improvements to our parks and recreational areas, including new aquatic centers at Tietze and Samuell Grand parks.

We’ve also chosen to invest in public health, resulting in a renowned institution, Parkland, funded by public dollars. Even though the facility is for the use of Dallas County residents, Colin County medical professionals frequently send their indigent patients our way.

While he supported the bond, Clayton said that half a billion dollars is a fraction of the money needed. District 9, for example, could use $400 million worth of street improvements but was allocated $40 million in bond money.

Clayton then reminded me that what we are cursed with here in Dallas is a lot of roads, a lot of cars and a lot of people driving. All of this requires a lot of upkeep.

He’s right. Culturally, we are drivers rather than walkers and passengers. We may bike for recreation or sport, but how many of us ride to Kroger or Trader Joe’s? How often do we take the DART to the airport or work?

I know I’m totally guilty of jumping into my car, but I can easily recall living in Chicago and rarely driving. Heavy traffic, the price to valet and the fear of losing an awesome parking spot in front of my house were great motivators to hoof it or take public transportation to get from point A to B.

“The question at the end of the day is, ‘What are the sensible solutions we should be advocating for?’” Clayton says.

Yes, good streets, but the answer to our woes is more than repaving. We need to resurface where that’s still an option. It’s cheaper and faster. We have to make public transportation a viable alternative. And maybe, just maybe, we could make a cultural shift and leave our cars in our driveways and get back on the right path.

PERSONABLE PROFESSIONAL

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Jessica Wantz JessicaWantz@ebby.com 214-572-1095

MITA HAVLICK is a neighborhood activist. Find her commentary regularly in the back pages of our print edition and online at lakewood.

KITCHEN AND BATH REMODELING

The O’Brien Group has been building and remodeling in East Dallas for 22 years and offers full construction services for all aspects of your home. From new custom kitchen and bathroom upgrades to whole house renovation or adding new spaces onto the home. Shannon O’Brien is the owner and operator. As a carpenter he pays close attention to all details of all phases of the process for high end results. We work closely with interior designers, architects and engineers to make your dreams become reality.

OBrienGroupInc.com 214-341-1448

If you already live here, then you get this. Like all of us, you were probably drawn to the mature trees and topography, the proximity to downtown, White Rock Lake and The Dallas Arboretum, the abundance of locally owned retail and restaurants and the wide variety of options for great schools. And you stayed for the neighbors who became friends, the small-town feeling and the sense of belonging to something bigger and greater.

Because East Dallas is in us, our job helping buyers and sellers is easy – our passion for this place is heartfelt and genuine. So whether you’re moving in, moving up or moving on, work with the No. 1 real estate brand in Lakewood and Lake Highlands.

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