2010 December Lake Highlands

HEIRLOOM RECIPES

* Family favorites fill our bellies and warm our hearts

Dorothy Moore was on the way to lunch with co-workers when her vision suddenly went black, and her right leg went numb. Her aorta had split. Luckily, she was only blocks away from Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas. “It was obvious that it was pretty serious from the beginning, and they got the right people there who knew how to handle it,” Dorothy says. The heart and vascular team had to act quickly. “It was so fast, and it just amazed everybody that they were able to get me into that room and do the surgery on something that quickly. I owe my life to that.”

For a physician referral or for more information about cardiovascular services, call 1.800.4BAYLOR or visit us online at BaylorHealth.com/DallasHeart.

“When my artery ruptured, Baylor stepped in.”

Celebrate the new Lake Highlands Station at Celebrate the new Lake Highlands Station at Customer Appreciation Day.

Food, activities and fun!

Monday, December 6, 2010 5 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Special opening ceremony at 9 a.m. Northwest corner of Walnut Hill Lane and White Rock Trail

Your new neighborhood station not only connects you to great work and play destinations, it also connects you to an easier, more affordable commute. It all starts with Customer Appreciation Day, and you have nothing but blue skies ahead from there. Next stop: A better commute!

214.979.1111 www.DART.org

EXCEPTIONAL WOMB SERVICE.

MARGOT PEROT CENTER FOR WOMEN & INFANTS

Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas is the choice of more mothers for so many reasons. To begin with, our postpartum rooms deliver the ultimate in pampering. Then there are the things that matter most should they be necessary, like a level III NICU with one of the highest survival rates in the country. And a Special Care Nursery for babies who need to stay longer. You’ll always want to give your baby the best, so why not start with where they are born? Take a virtual tour of our rooms, sign up for our Oh Baby! weekly pregnancy and parenting newsletter, or request a healthy pregnancy kit at 1-877-THR-Well or TexasHealth.org/DallasBaby.

PhOtO By BeNjamiN hager

toMthUMb’S ‘noSedive’

i’ve been a regular shopper at the Skillman/lbJ [tom thumb] since it opened [Advocate back talk blog, nov. 4, “observations on tom thumb from a mommy/shopper”]. i first thought the downturn was due to Safeway taking over, but more recently it seems to be in a major nosedive. i was hoping it was just preparing for a major remodel, but closing may make more sense if there is the possibility of moving to town Center. —Cheryl, via

reAd more about lake highlands town Center and other retail developments on p. 50

i go to the abrams/Skillman location, and they are super polite, but their quality of food has taken a nosedive. there must be a disconnect between the time the food hits the loading dock and when it gets stocked.

—NiNa, via

have been shopping this tom thumb for 15 years and haven’t noticed a decline or excess of expired foods. i find their associates always friendly and accommodating. for what it’s worth i really do like the albertson’s at northwest/ ferndale too. and you can’t beat la Michoacana at audelia/Walnut hill for fajita meats. —15-year lh resideNt, via

it appears the entire Skillman/royal shopping center is doomed. i believe tom thumb would be extremely successful in the town Center, where it would possibly be the only grocery store in our immediate area.

—lakelover, via

i am concerned with tom thumb committing to town Center because they will close one or both other stores which in turn will create more vacant space to be filled with the Sac ‘n’ Saves of the world. We don’t want to increase the value of one part of lake highlands only to cannibalize the other areas. —Jt-lh, via

we Love yoUr bACk tALk.

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

Holiday traditions stink

Mine did, but at least it’s mine

One of our family’s longstanding holiday traditions involved a food called lutefisk. It made its one and only annual appearance at the holiday meal the bigger the family gathering, the larger the pot of lutefisk.

It was our first scent of the holidays, because when we entered the host home, the overwhelming aroma of lutefisk literally seeped through the door.

I’m told that lutefisk is a Scandinavian “delicacy”. But what legitimate delicacy is soaked in lye, gives off a stench reminiscent of rancid meat, jiggles on the plate in the manner of a glob of greasy gelatin, and tastes like something I would never eat except under threat of death?

As far as I know, virtually every relative of mine, young and old, felt the same way about lutefisk — literally no one ate it. But there it was every holiday — in a boiling, hideously large pot right next to the turkey and ham.

Lutefisk was some now unremembered family member’s holiday tradition. And more than 40 years after it first entered my holiday consciousness, lutefisk remains there today as a “tradition” a tradition for all the wrong reasons, but still something I think about every holiday.

That kind of defies common sense, doesn’t it? A food I can’t stand is the most memorable holiday tradition of my youth, a memory that lingers fondly even today?

Of course, our family had other holiday traditions, too.

For example, my mom has a photographic memory for her holiday decorating layout, from precisely where the plastic Santa hangs on the wall to exactly where the intricate (for a thirdgrader) Crayon-colored holiday artwork is aligned on the kitchen cabinets. Even today, I can close my eyes, and tell you whether the Santa peeking from the wreath will be mounted to the left or right of Rudolph and his fellow reindeer.

Moving to current day, we always top our tree with a very juvenile rendition of an angel made from an overturned Dixie cup, rendered meaningful not because of its artistic value but because it was stapled and glued and penciled by one of our very own former juveniles. Same with a string of paper ornaments festooned with shimmering glitter and bearing the smiling face of another former juvenile, who also happens to be a favorite of ours.

And after the presents are opened and the

recycling disposed, my wife creates the most majestic breakfast of the year, serving up a holiday-decorated table lined with over-frosted cinnamon rolls and milk and orange juice and fresh-baked butter biscuits and the pièce de résistance: a medley of scrambled eggs, cheese, sour cream, butter and spices so full of calories and fat that it would spin the heads of those people on TV’s “Biggest Loser”.

By way of continued quirky family tradition, I’ve never seen my wife more than nibble at the feast she spends hours creating, just as her mother did for her. And even though none of those foods are my favorites, it’s a holiday tradition of the highest family magnitude anyway.

This brings me to the neighborhood recipes offered up in our cover story this month; all are something of traditions to the people who originated them, and the story suggests they might become holiday traditions for your family or mine somewhere down the road.

But as it turns out, the odds of specifically setting out to create a tradition and having that well-crafted and laboriously planned idea actually become a lingering family memory are pretty slim.

Because that’s the way holidays go. We endlessly scheme to create traditions, and we cleverly channel our efforts into building them. But most of the time, what people remember is the lutefisk.

Fondly, though.

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Below are excerpts from a blog series by Advocate editor Keri Mitchell about changes to subsidized housing and how it could affect our neighborhood. To read her posts in full and to comment, visit and search: subsidized housing

DHA, NOT THE CITY, IS THE AUTHORITY

10.25.10 When the Dallas Housing Authority (DHA) announced plans to place permanent supportive housing units in various locations around the city, it didn’t sit well with some of the nearby residents. In Lake Highlands, neighbors took issue with Councilman Jerry Allen’s resigned approach.

But, as DHA CEO MaryAnn Russ explained at a recent meeting, neither Allen nor any councilman has the authority to determine where the DHA can and cannot place subsidized housing units. The DHA operates as an arm of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and “the city does not have sign-off on this process,” Russ says.

Can neighbors have any influence at all? Sure, and the Woodside Condominiums situation in Lake Highlands may be a good example of how. Neighbors raised concerns that the DHA was planning to place 20 formerly incarcerated individuals in Woodside Condominiums at Forest near Abrams, a location known for its high crime rate. When the DHA looked into the concerns, Dallas Police Department data showed that, indeed, the average crime rate right around Woodside was higher than in both the surrounding neighborhood and citywide, so those units were abandoned. For formerly incarcerated individuals — and also for the formerly homeless, who “often have a lot of mental health issues,” Russ says — the DHA is mindful that they “don’t need to encounter issues when they walk out their front door.”

A FAIRER RENT STRUCTURE

10.25.10 “In theory, families have freedom to go wherever they want. In reality, [HUD] came up with one fair market rent structure for the entire seven-county area” that the DHA serves, Russ said at the meeting. The current structure ends up “moderately sucky for people in Dallas County because the money doesn’t go far.”

Right now, roughly $860 a month for a twobedroom unit (HUD’s average size) is the ceiling of what families using Section 8 vouchers can afford. The amount is the same in Kaufman County as it is in Dallas County. When the new rent structure goes into effect in 2011, the formula will change, taking into account rates in 56 zip codes encompassed by the DHA, and families will be eligible for one of eight fair market payment standards that range from $621 a month in lower-end zip codes to $1,368 a month in higher-end zip codes. It will be a

couple of years before we begin to see the effects of the new rent structure.

But does this mean we will begin to see subsidized housing spread evenly across the city?

“I don’t expect we’re going to get proposals from Highland Park,” Russ says. “I don’t expect we’re going to get proposals from Preston Hollow. But I do think we’re going to get a wider range than we have in the past.”

CAN IT BE SPREAD ACROSS DALLAS?

10.26.10 Lake Highlands residents voiced a number of arguments when opposing the DHA’s recent roll-out of 160 new permanent supportive housing units. But when the dust settled, their main argument was this: Spread subsidized housing throughout the city so that our neighborhood doesn’t have more than its share.

Thus the steps the DHA is taking to change its rent structure, and as the DHA seeks proposals for 350 more permanent supportive housing units (to be announced in December), it will give higher scores to zip codes with lower numbers of subsidized housing units.

Even so, Russ says she doesn’t think apartment complexes in more upscale neighborhoods become home to permanent supportive housing units. That’s because the complex needs two major things, Russ says: 1) a landlord who wants to participate; and 2) a service provider who has a track record with the identified group (such as Housing Crisis Center for the formerly homeless living in Trinity Palms in Lake Highlands). It’s not likely that a landlord with an attractive property would be interested in participating in the DHA’s permanent supportive housing program.

Similar problems face the new zip code rent structure. Even though residents who qualify for Section 8 vouchers will receive quite a bit more money for rent in high-end zip codes, they still face two major obstacles: 1) credit checks and 2) security deposits. For more expensive properties, the credit checks are stringent, and th security deposit can be as much as two months’ rent (and the government does not subsidize security deposits, Russ says). Not to mention that some neighborhoods simply have fewer rental properties. That’s why the DHA’s attempts at equalization will probably never quite result in equality.

350 MORE PERMANENT SUPPORTIVE HOUSING UNITS

10.27.10 At a recent city housing committee meeting, no city officials called on Russ to hold up or pull out of housing units, she says.

“It was all sweetness and light,” Russ quips. The reason? Through permanent supportive housing efforts, both this spring and those that will be announced in December, the DHA is providing homes for 500-plus individuals and families who are formerly incarcerated or homeless. “Everybody realized we have bailed their butts out,” Russ said. “If we didn’t do this, the city would have to, and in this fiscal year, that’s a big deal.”

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Lake Highlands High’s incredible football season ended Nov. 13, but the players, coaches, fans, drill team, cheerleaders and band showed fierce Wildcat spirit during each matchup. Visit lakehighlands. advocatemag.com/video-gallery to watch game highlights and player profiles from throughout the season.

GiftinG loCal //

The Advocate Foundation helps local groups with programs and events that benefit our neighborhood. Help support it by purchasing our beautiful 2010 hand-painted glass ornament. It depicts a Dallas cityscape by local artist Dahlia Woods, and comes with a coordinating stand and black velvet keepsake box. Visit foundation.advocatemag.com for a list of local retailers or to buy the ornament online.

Most popular laKe hiGhlands bloG posts:

1. TOM THUMB AT LAKE HIGHLANDS TOWN CENTER? search: Prescott Realty // 2. FOUR LOKO: HEADED TO A HIGH SCHOOL PARTY NEAR YOU? search: hospitalization // 3. OBSERVATIONS ON TOM THUMB FROM A MOMMY/SHOPPER search: Oscar Meyer bacon //

4. A TOWN CENTER RESPONSE FROM SPROUTS search: Sprouts // 5. LAKE HIGHLANDS PODCAST: TOWN CENTER GROCERS AND POSITIVE PARK NEWS search: landscape

web editor Christy robinson compiles the On Advocatemag.com section. If you have suggestions for this section or our website contact her at 214.635.2120 or crobinson@advocatemag.com.

Go Fresh! Not Fake!

Nothing says “holiday” more than fragrant and fresh Christmas trees and greens. Decorate your home with the real thing this year for a

green” holiday!

Christmas trees are a renewable American resource. They also absorb carbon dioxide, create oxygen, can be recycled as mulch and provide refuge for wildlife. The U.S. Christmas Tree industry creates as many as 100,000 U.S. jobs each year. To ensure a constant supply, tree farms plant up to 3 new seedlings for each tree harvested. Plus, fresh trees and greens will never sit in a landfill for centuries after disposal! We have an amazing selection of healthy Christmas trees and holiday greens.

Not Your Standard Poinsettia!

Looking to make an impact in your holiday home? Decorate with hot pink, white or red poinsettias that are up to 3-feet tall & wide! 14” pots are only $39.99 each.

Dec. 4th Events: Chihuahua Rescue 10am - 3pm Create Christmas Yule Logs & Woodland Ornaments with Oil & Cotton 12:30pm - 3:30pm ($45. Sign up today. All ages.) Details at www.nhg.com

The Bella Vista Bunch

May peace and joy be yours during this wonderful season and the coming New Year.

Happy Holidays!

Buddy Randy Rafael

Lance Darin

Brad

Steve

Jan

This month you could steal away from the mall, from gift-wrapping and from entertaining the outof-towners, and spend a couple hours with the musically inclined Sanders Family. White Rock area resident CHERYL DENSON, director of “Sanders Family Christmas” — a OneThirty Productions play that runs through Dec. 18 at the Bath House Cultural Center — promises you’ll have fun. Here, the theater veteran fills us in on what makes this holiday production a not-to-bemissed sensation.

How did you get involved with “Sanders Family Christmas”?

I have been working in theater for a long time, used to act, but now I am a freelance director. One Thirty Productions has hired me for a second year to direct this play, which was incredibly popular last year, and we expect it to be even more popular this year. The producers are old friends of mine. “Sanders Family Christmas” is the first musical they have put on. Musicals are a little more difficult and a little more expensive than the non-musical show. I was brought in because musicals are a specialty of mine. This play is not new — no new script, no new actors — so it will not be redirected, but remounted. It will grow.

What can the audience expect?

It’s a show you can bring your family to and not worry. And it is shown on a unique schedule. One Thirty Productions is named for its interesting showtimes: always 1:30 p.m. matinees. That’s the only program of its kind in the area. It’s friendly for older people and families. It is such a special opportunity that no one else is offering, and they present four shows a year at the Bath House Cultural Center. >>

DON’T LET life

Located on the shores of White Rock Lake, C.C. Young offers Dallas seniors a constellation of services and opportunities. Construction is on schedule for The Overlook, our newest expansion, and we will open Summer 2011. The Overlook is the latest residential addition to our ever-growing neighborhood. Extraordinary views, private balconies and a variety of dining venues are just the beginning at The Overlook.

C. C. Young is where personal growth and development are encouraged and Where the Spirit is Ageless.

more on CHERYL DENSON

Essentially, “Sanders Family Christmas” is about the Sanders family: parents, three children and an uncle. It’s Christmas 1941, and the family learns that the eldest son, Dennis [played by Cayman Mitchell], will ship off to war. Beforehand, the family spends Christmas witnessing and performing at their church, Mount Pleasant Baptist Church. The play is a sequel to the popular “Smoke on the Mountain”, part of a Sanders Family trilogy. It includes dozens of Christmas carols and bluegrass music, and each family member testifies, I guess you could say, using funny Christmastime stories. The cast is incredibly talented, with so many different types of talent, and they all play musical instruments: This one plays guitar. That one plays banjo. A sister refuses to sing, and only plays percussion! Sonny Franks plays the father, Burl Sanders. Willie Welch plays Uncle Stanley both of these guys are well-known actors, singers and musicians. Pam Pendleton plays the mom, Vera, whom she has played in all three Sanders plays in theaters around the country. It’s the same cast as last year, but people change in a year. They have done new things, and they will bring new experiences to this production. That will keep it fresh and new, even for those who saw it last year.

I HEARTHESHOWWAS QUITEPOPULAR LAST HOLIDAYSEASON. WHATMAKESIT SOSPECIAL?

It was so popular last year, I think, because everyone at the holidays is looking for a special Christmas experience. It celebrates family and faith and how families accept each other, warts and all. And you do see some warts with this family. It’s also special because of the intimate setting at the Bath House. It’s not like a big concert. People want a warm experience that offers a little nostalgia, too. We want to remember those Christmases from long ago — this offers a nice afternoon oasis from wrapping presents or being at the mall.

WHATDO YOU HAVEPLANNEDAFTER THE HOLIDAYS?

I am directing a play at Dallas Children’s Theater, then a production of “Oliver” and an upcoming production of “Victor/Victoria” at the Dallas Theater Center.

“SANDERS FAMILY CHRISTMAS” runs Dec. 1-18 at the Bath Ho Cultural Center, 512 E. Lawther. All performances are at 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. For more information about One Thirty Productions, call 214.532.1709.

WRITER IN RESIDENCE

“Attitude is Everything”

written by Vicki Hitzges

This Lake Highlands resident knows a thing or two about optimism. For years, she worked closely with the legendary Zig Ziglar, one of America’s leading motivational speakers. Now the former TV news reporter has built a following on the speaker’s circuit. Her book, “Attitude is Everything”, packs a potent message about the power of positive thinking — not a new concept, by any means, but her advice, compartmentalized into “10 rules for staying positive” is easy to digest and apply. Make life better, Hitzges says, by laughing, giving thanks, saying “no” more often and, her favorite, “waiting to worry”. Hitzges learned a great deal from her mentor, Ziglar. “I got a major dose of positive from him, and it’s not fake. He’s the most positive person I have ever met, and he’s real.” She includes anecdotes about him in the book. Surprisingly, Ziglar has dealt with some devestating life experiences, including the death of one of his children, the book notes in the chapter “Attitude of Gratitude”. Warm, giggle-inducing and inspirational artwork pulls it all together to make an attractive coffee-table book (think perfect yuletide gift). You can purchase it at vickihitzges. com. —CHRISTINA HUGHES BABB

Search: Advocate Radio Vicki Hitzges

PETPAUSE

Irish blessing

SCARLETT the 4-year-old Irish Setter is sweet-natured and easy on the eyes. “She is very people oriented and gregarious, true to her Irish heritage,” says owner SUSIE DALE of Lake Highlands, who shares Scarlett with husband Greg and daughters Merrion, 16, and Madeleine, 12. “When Scarlett has a wide open space to run in, it is truly a beautiful sight to behold.”

WHAT GIVES?

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

HELP A KID MAKE MUSIC ...

... when you listen to local artist Freddie Jones, member of both Freddie Jones Jazz Band and musical act Local Honey. When he’s not touring the state or teaching music to college students, Jones operates a nonprofit that helps purchase instruments for high school band students who can’t afford them. Through Trumpets4Kids, students are able to apply for a trumpet, Jones explains. “The program then aims to have kids perform for other kids so that they may inspire each other.” Many of Jones’s shows (listed at freddiejones.net) serve as fundraisers for the cause. Some of the children who have received musical instruments will perform at the Local Honey Christmas show, Friday, Dec. 17, at 7 p.m. at the Lakewood Theater. Several local artists get together each year for the multimedia musical holiday extravaganza. Its proceeds go to Trumpets4Kids and other neighborhood charities. Tickets are $20. Visit localhoney.org for more information.

Patient Quote Of The Month:

OR GIVE FOOD...

... to the Network of Community Ministries that serves families in RISD. They are most in need of peanut butter, dried macaroni, canned pastas and soup, frozen turkeys, canned vegetables, and unwrapped toys, coats and diapers for children ages 3-5. Call 972.234.8880 if you would like to make a donation, or visit thenetwork.org for more information.

KNOW OF WAYS that neighbors can spend time, attend an event, or purchase or donate something to benefit a neighborhood nonprofit? Email your suggestion to launch@ advocatemag.com.

“Dr. Slate and her amazing staff provide tender loving care dentistry. I feel like a member of the family every time I visit.”

–Paula Graham

D ENTISTRY IN THE H EART OF L AKEWOOD

out&about

in DECEMBER

12.03.10-12.05.10

WHITE ROCK MARATHON/HEALTH & FITNESS EXPO FREE No one says you have to endure 26.2 miles through the Dallas Arts District, Uptown, Turtle Creek, Highland Park, Swiss Avenue and around the lake. But you can be there to cheer on our neighbors, and observe the spectacle that is the MetroPCS Dallas White Rock Marathon. Race-day activities will take place at Fair Park Dec. 5, beginning with a pre-race worship service at 7:40 a.m., followed by the singing of the National Anthem. Fireworks will kick off the races at 8 a.m., and the finish line closes at 2:30 p.m. Live bands will set up stages at several points along the course, including Hot House at the Granada Theater and Catdaddies on Swiss Avenue. Before the marathon, the Health & Fitness Expo will run noon-6 p.m. and 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Dec. 3-4 at Fair Park’s Automotive Building, 1010 First Avenue. More than 85 vendors will set up shop, offering information on nutritional and fitness products for running enthusiasts. For more details, including full schedules for the race and expo, visit runtherock.com. —E

MiLy ToMAN

THROUGH 12.31 WHERE TEXAS FINDS ITS COLOR FREE

Scores of Texas artists from more than 30 different cities present an exhibit of original paintings and photography at the Dutch Art Gallery, 10233 E. Northwest Highway, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Tuesday-Friday. All works are for sale. For more details, visit dutchartusa.com.

THROUGH 01.02 MAGIC OF SANTA $10 The annual holiday festival at the Dallas Arboretum features more than 500 Santa Clauses in different shapes, sizes and colors from all over the world set in the historic DeGoyler Estate. Other activities include visits with Santa, a live reindeer, costumed characters and photos. The event is included with general admission to the park, $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $7 for children 3-12 and free for children under 3. Parking costs $7. For details, call 214.515.6500 or visit dallasarboretum.org

12.01 CASA LINDA TREE LIGHTING FREE

Casa Linda Plaza presents its holiday tree lighting 5-7 p.m. near the esplanade, featuring the Reinhardt Elementary Choir, Hexter Elementary Choir and “Encore” by Bryan Adams High School. Pictures with Santa will be available for $5, with proceeds benefiting For the Love of the Lake. Highland Park Cafeteria will offer refreshments at the event.

12.01 WRITER’S GARDEN $50-$100 The Writer’s Garden Literacy Series continues with a Christmas brunch with Jennifer Pickens, author of “Christmas at the White House”, 10 a.m.noon at the Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland. For details, call 214.797.5966 or visit womenscouncildallasarboretum.org.

12.03 LAKE HIGHLANDS HOME TOUR $10$12 The Lake Highlands Women’s League will host its 32nd annual home tour 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. at various neighborhood homes. The Holiday Market will be at Highland Oaks Church of Christ, 10805 Walnut Hill, and includes lunch 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., which requires separate $12 tickets in advance. The event raises money for Lake Highlands High School scholarships and community projects. For a full list of homes and other details, call Allison Brown at 214.503.8790 or visit lhhspta.org.

12.8 LHAECPTA MEETING, SWAP SHOP AND MEMBER SOCIAL FREE The monthly gathering of the Lake Highlands Area Early Childhood PTA is from 9-11:30 a.m. at Highlands Christian Church, 9949 McCree. LHAECPTA members and anyone interested in joining are encouraged to shop, snack and mingle. For more information visit lhaecpta.org.

View the Holiday Guide at centralmarket.com or pick up a copy at your store.

GLORIA FERRER BLANC DE NOIRS ($20) CALIFORNIA>

Call it what you will: Champagne, sparkling wine, bubbly, Cava or Prosecco. But whatever you call it, this is the time of year when the wine with all the fizzy stuff gets the most attention.

In one respect, this is too bad, because sparkling wine deserves to be enjoyed year-round. It’s much more than something to pour on New Year’s Eve. As I learned early in my wine-writing career, sparkling wine pairs with almost any kind of food, oysters to chocolate-covered strawberries to chicken-fried steak.

But even if this is the only time of year you drink sparkling wine, there’s plenty to go around. So take a chance. Try something different. The recession, though it has slowed sales of the expensive, high-end stuff, has been quite helpful for bubbly that costs $20 and less. And there is some excellent wine at those prices. All are available at Central Market.

One other note: Only sparkling wine made in the Champagne region of France can legally be called Champagne, thanks to trade agreements the European Union has signed with most of the rest of the world. The rest of the non-Italian world calls its bubbly “sparkling wine”; the Italians have Prosecco and Asti.

Here’s an overview of what you’ll find this holiday season: This is the stronghold of the Spanish and their Cava, which usually offers the most value. But I’ve always been impressed by an $8 French wine called Carousel, which has lots of chardonnay fruit and good acidity.

A Washington state wine, Domaine Ste. Michelle, provides quality, though it’s a bit soft. Also look for the cremants — French sparkling wines from the regions of Alsace, Burgundy and the Loire. Only the Burgundian wines are made with the traditional Champagne groups, but each is interesting and well worth a sip.

This is where you’ll find most California sparklers, as well as Champagne. I’m a huge fan of Gloria Ferrer ($20), Iron Horse ($38) and the French Duval-Leory ($44), which is reasonably priced as Champagne goes.

—JEFF SIEGEL

DALLAS

5750 E. LOVERS LANE

MAIN: 214-234-7000

HOTLINE: 1-877-263-1379

PLANO

320 COIT ROAD

MAIN: 469-241-8300

HOTLINE: 469-241-8386

JEFF SIEGEL’SWEEKLYWINE REVIEWS

appear every Wednesday on the Advocate Back Talk blog, lakehighlands.advocatemag.com/blog.

This holiday, make Foodie spirits bright. From fresh meats and seafood to justbaked breads and pastries, Central Market is your season’s feastings headquarters.

WITH YOUR WINE

My mom’s 7-layer brownies

Who knows how many versions of this recipe are floating around, but my mom has always done something special with these. And as hard as I have tried over the years, I have never been able to make them as well as she does. And yes, they go very nicely with sparkling wine.

Serves 6-8, takes about 90 minutes

1/4 c butter

1 c graham cracker crumbs

1 c shredded coconut

1 6-oz pkg butterscotch chips

1 6-oz pkg semisweet chocolate chips

1 14-oz can sweetened condensed milk

1 c chopped nuts

- Preheat oven to 350 degrees, and melt the butter in a 9x2-inch pan. Spread the graham cracker crumbs evenly over the bottom of the pan. Press down gently.

- Sprinkle the coconut evenly over the graham crackers. Then spread the chocolate chips over the coconut, the butterscotch chips over the chocolate and the nuts over the butterscotch chips. Pour the milk evenly over all.

- Bake 30 minutes or until the graham crackers are browned but not burned. Let cool in pan, and serve.

ask the WINE GUY?

DOESCHAMPAGNE (AND SPARKLING WINE) HAVE A VINTAGE?

Mostly not. It’s so difficult to make bubbly that the wine usually carries the NV (non-vintage) label. That means that grapes from more than one harvest are used to make it. Sometimes, in special years, the producers will make a vintage wine — and charge extra for it, since it’s supposed to be of higher quality.

—JEFF SIEGEL

A guide to dining & drinking in our neighborhood

Delicious.

MYLA-CONCEPTS

214.207.7627

MYLA-CONCEPTS.COM

Pictured: gingerbread cake pops

DESSERT DIVA

CHRISTINAHAYWOOD’S LOVE FOR COOKING BEGAN AS CHILD, growing up in Lafayette, La. After being laid off from her job as an engineer, she rediscovered that passion, and started Myla-Concepts, specializing in bite-sized desserts. Her cake pops — cake balls on a stick — have wowed her friends and customers. “You would have thought I brought everyone gold,” the Lake Highlands resident says. “Maybe this is just my calling.” While the cake ball trend has spread in Dallas over the past few years, Haywood says she hadn’t seen anyone put them on a stick before. She simply bakes the cake, crumbles it, mixes in the flavors, freezes it and then dips it in chocolate. Varieties include holiday flavors like gingerbread and pecan cake. Haywood also carries other tiny treats like brownie bites, candies, tartlets, mini cupcakes and petifores. Most items are $18-$24 a dozen. Haywood says the company requires lots of work, but it’s all worth it. “I definitely respect small businesses way more than I ever imagined,” she says.

—EMILY TOMAN

three more places to indulge:

1 D’LISH DESSERTS

A couple of White Rock area residents also are trying their hand at the online bakery business, offering gourmet cake balls and fruity dessert bars. 214.377.4830

THEDLISH.COM

2 THE CAKE BALL COMPANY

This neighborhood shop carries different cake ball flavors, blended with icing and dipped in creamy chocolate.

EASTON & NORTHWEST HIGHWAY 214-.559.5788

CAKEBALLS.COM

FOOD AND WINE ONLINE. Visit our website at lakehighlands.advocatemag.com

3 BLACK FOREST BAKERY

In conjunction with Henk’s European Deli, this shop specializes in cakes, small and large, including fruity and chocolate combinations. GREENVILLE & NORTHWEST HWY 214.987.9090

HENKSBLACKFORESTBAKERY.COM

MARK DAVIS

YOUR GUIDE TO DINING OUT

The BEST BE E E AT S in our neighborhood

$ $$ $$$ ABOVE $20 OD FB WB SERVES WINE & BEER NCC RR RESERVATIONSRECOMMENDED

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG $ FB Come enjoy yourselves at Another Broken Egg Cafe, the premier breakfast brunch, and lunch cafe in East Dallas. Crabcakes on homemade crostini bread await, enjoy the finest benedicts in all of Dallas. We recently partnered with the Humane Society to offer all cage free eggs from local Dallas farmers. Come try our new location in the Old Town shopping center. Locally owned and operated by Chris Harwood. 1152 N Buckner Blvd (across from Doctors Hospital) 214.954.7182.

ASIAN MINT $$ OD FB WB Our Highland Park location, The Mint, offers an array of Asian-fused cuisine, specializing in Bangkok style dishes. We feature farm fresh ingredients, beautifully presented, coupled with a chic atmosphere and friendly service. Happy Hour is 5pm6:30pm Mon.-Fri. – all beers and house wines are $3; $2 off appetizers, soups & salads. 4246 Oak Lawn Ave. 214.219.6469. The Asian Mint, along with its fused and sushi menus, also offers one of the best dessert bars in Dallas. 11617 N. Central Expwy. 214.363.6655. www.themintdallas.com

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

CHUBBY’S $ When looking for a restaurant to have breakfast, lunch or dinner, we all want a place that serves up variety, hearty helpings and even bigger portions of friendliness. The Touris family has developed a recipe that delivers all of the above at a good price. With four locations in the Metroplex, Chubby’s Family Restaurant provides a rustic setting with down home cooking. Catering available. Locations: 11331 E. NW Hwy. 214-348-6065 and 7474 S. Cockrell Hill Rd. 972-298-1270..

PUT YOURRESTAURANTINTHEMINDSOF 100,000+

HAPPY

4 Locations to serve you

OPEN 7 Days

ADVERTISEINTHIS SECTION For more information call 214-560-4203 or email jliles@advocatemag.com

DIVINE COFFEE SHOP

Under new ownership! Come by and check out our new daily specials. Serving breakfast and lunch daily ‘til 2:00 pm. In December only, mention this ad for a 5¢ coffee with any breakfast.

SZECHWAN PAVILION

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

ZATO

Zato Thai Cuisine and Sushi Bar offers a relaxed contemporary environment perfect for date night or a quiet family dinner that includes noodles, traditional Thai and gourmet sushi. BYOB. Take out or delivery available.

TEX-MEX GRILL

Authentic homemade Tex-Mex. Weekly lunch specials $4.99

Mon. - Sat. 11am - 10pm Sun. 10am-4pm ALL DAY BRUNCH

Private Party room, seats 40 people Catering beginning at $6.50 per person

WACKYM’S KITCHEN

Wackym’s Kitchen bakes delicious cookies and treats from original recipes using fresh, natural ingredients like real butter and cane sugar. Perfect for holiday gifting. Visit our website to order or to find a retail location near you. 214.864.7667 wackymskitchen.com

THE GOO D S SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE STORE IN LAKE HIGHLANDS

Get your Sparkle On...in Chamilia! Create your one-of-a-kind jewelry in dazzling beads of stering silver, 14k gold, SwarovskiTM crystal, colored stones, Italian Murano glass and exclusive Disney Collection. 10233 E. NW Hwy@Ferndale (near Albertsons) 214.553.8850

Mon-Sat 9:30-5:30 TheStoreinLH.com

CHEESECAKE ROYALE

When authentic family recipes meet fresh, high-quality ingredients, the result is a dessert experience that’s distinctly Royale. 9016 Garland Rd. 214.328.9102 CheesecakeRoyale.com

T.HEE GREETINGS

Specializing in personalized gifts for everyone on your list both stores are ready to help Santa make this the most special Christmas ever! Two Locations:

Mockingbird & Abrams and Walnut Hill & Audelia 214.747.5800 t-heegifts.com

NORTH DALLAS ANTIQUE MALL

2,500 sq. ft. of great shopping for antiques, collectibles, vintage, furniture, décor, retro, art, glass, fashion, jewelry, garden and much more. 11722 Marsh Ln. @ Forest Ln. 214.366.2100 northdallasantiquemall.com

STELLA & DOT

‘Tis the season for oh-so-stylish gifts galore! Choose from styles to suit everyone on your list, from classic to whimsical to bold. Shop online www.stelladot.com/rene

Call for a copy of our Holiday Style Guide 214-725-3659

René Toudouze, Star Stylist & Founding Leader

BRUMLEY GARDENS

Even Santa knows that Brumley Gardens is THE one stop shop for Holiday Decorations. For those who love the traditional look, to those who love the wackadoo, Brumley’s has it all. The holidays start NOW. 10540 Church Rd. 214.343.4900 brumleygardens.com

DO ATTEMPT THIS AT HOME

Neighborhood food experts share their most special recipes and secrets for whipping them up right

STORY BY: GARY DOWELL

PHOTOS BY: BENJAMIN HAGER & CAN TÜRKYILMAZ

IT’S noT TH e b RIS k AIR , the carefully wrapped gifts or the warm hugs from family that make the holidays so special. nope — it’s the food. And behind every treasured recipe is a story, usually one involving family, friends and traditions.

Those who understand the value of great recipes — comforting creations made familiar after years of reunions, weddings and weekend trips hold the secret to genuine holiday happiness.

This month, several neighbors a few who make their living in the culinary arts — dish about their favorite kitchen creations. Their recipes — already passed from generation to generation — could become new holiday traditions for your family this year.

Sardinian- Style Stuffed eggplant (Melanzane r ipienne a lla Sarda)

from Salvatore Gisellu, master chef at Urban Crust restaurant

Gisellu, a Lake Highlands resident whose acclaimed restaurant is located in Plano, says this dish brings back warm memories of childhood. “Melanzane Ripiene Alla Sarda is the ultimate Italian comfort food,” Gisellu says. “My mother has made this dish forever; I can remember her making it since I was 5 years old. She always made it on Thursdays for lunch.” Chef Gisellu says the dish is also perfect as a late-night snack. These days, his wife Jeanne Marie loves the dish, and she regularly makes it for their sons, Matteo and Lucas.

ingredientS

Serves 6-8

a 2 large Italian eggplants, firm and free of blemishes

a 1/2 c extra virgin olive oil

a 1 tsp fresh oregano, chopped

a 1 tsp fresh basil, chopped

a 1 tsp fresh mint, chopped

a 1 tsp fresh Italian parsley

a 1 medium onion, chopped

a 1 clove garlic, chopped

a 1 lb fresh ground veal

a 1 c white wine dry

a 1/2 c your homemade tomato sauce

a 1/2 c grated pecorino sardo cheese (or Romano)

a 1/2 c Italian plain bread crumbs

a 1 whole egg

a salt and pepper

-Preheat the oven to 300 degrees.

- Cut the eggplant into 2-inch rings; remove the inside part, leaving some of the pulp attached to the skin.

- Brush the rings with oil, and season with salt and pepper; set them up in a baking sheet, and roast for 15 minutes.

- Sprinkle the pulp with salt, wrap with a paper towel, and put some weight on.

- After 10–15 minutes, remove the paper towel from the eggplant, rinse with cold water (to remove the salt and the bitterness), and chop.

- Heat up a large sauté pan, add oil, sweat onions and garlic with the herbs, brown the veal, and season with salt and pepper. Deglaze the pan with the wine, remove from stove, and add tomato sauce, cheese, breadcrumbs and the egg; season well. Serves 6-8.

The 2010 Advocate Foundation Charity Ornament is now available at the following retailers:

Brumley Gardens 10540 Church Rd. 214.343.4900

brumleygardens.com

The Store in Lake Highlands 10233 E. Northwest Hwy. 214.553.8850

thestoreinlh.com

Net procceds from the sale of these limited edition hand-painted ornaments benefit neighborhood schools and non-profits.

Learn more about the Advocate Foundation at www.foundation.advocatemag.com

BIG MAMA’S CORNBREAD STUFFING

from Paul Wackym, White Rock area resident and founder and owner of Wackym’s Kitchen Cookies

Wackym’s great-grandmother, “Big Mama”, taught this recipe to his grandmother, who taught it to his mother when she was a child in South Carolina.

“Mom taught it to me and said, ‘It is just the way to do it.’ ” Wackym says the recipe is not as complicated to make as you might think, and it can be modified to suit your taste.

“It can be baked in a pan rather that stuffed in the cavity of the turkey,” he says. “We now make it with vegetable stock for the vegetarians — that’s how we make it at home to eat along with Tofurkey.”

TURKEY STOCK:

Bag of giblets from turkey

Wackym’s note: Don’t accidentally leave these in the carcass of the bird like my English friend did on his first attempt to bake a Thanksgiving turkey

4 qt water

2 bay leaves

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp cracked red pepper

1 clove garlic

onion skins and celery tops (from stuffing)

- Throw all ingredients into a large pot, and put to simmer on the back burner; check after a couple of hours. The meat should fall off the neck bone. Strain and separate out the fat. Hold the turkey bits and extra stock for giblet gravy.

CORNBREAD:

2 tsp canola oil

1 tsp sugar

2 eggs

1 c whole milk soured with 1 Tbsp white vinegar (set aside for 20 minutes)

1 tsp baking soda

2 tsp dried parsley

1 tsp dried marjoram

¼ tsp powdered garlic

¼ tsp sage

½ tsp salt

½ cup flour

1½ cup yellow cornmeal

- Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees. Add 1 tsp canola oil to a 12-inch cast iron skillet, and place in oven. Mix the oil, sugar, eggs and milk. Add the soda, spices, flour and cornmeal. Pour into the hot cast iron skillet, and bake 20 minutes until golden brown.

STUFFING:

¼ lb butter

4 stalks celery, chopped fine

2 medium yellow onions, chopped fine cornbread, crumbled

2 boiled eggs, chopped fine

1½ c cooked grits

1 large raw egg, beaten turkey stock

- Sauté the celery and onion in butter until very limp in a large and deep pan.

- Add the cornbread, boiled eggs, grits and mix.

Add the raw egg and enough stock to moisten.

- Stuff in the cavity of a turkey, and bake immediately until 165 degrees internal temperature of the stuffing has been reached, and the turkey is done. If baking in a 9x13 pan, bake until firm and golden brown.

Serve with copious amounts of gravy and a dollop of homemade cranberry sauce, followed by a piece or two of pie and a nap.

Tip: Wackym likes to make cornbread the night before. After it cools, break it into small pieces, and place it back into the oven. Let it dry out overnight.

FIND VIDEO featuring more tips from Paul Wackym on lakehighlands.advocatemag.com

Happy Holidays

Sherry Smith’ S Corn CaSS erole

from Lake Highlands resident Kerry Smith, author of leeandkerry.blogspot.com

Kerry Smith’s beloved mom-in-law, Sherry, made this dish regularly for the annual Smithfamily Thanksgiving gathering, where some 40 of her husband’s relatives gather to eat and catch up with one another. “It is my favorite holiday, and after 10 years of marriage, I think that I enjoy this gathering even more than my husband does,” she says.

Four years ago, Sherry Smith was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and she is no longer able to cook. The dish had been her contribution to the Thanksgiving gathering for 30 years; Kerry Smith decided to start making the corn casserole herself so the tradition would continue.

“Not only is it a delicious holiday dish, and easy to make, but when I make it, I think of my mother-in-law, and I think about the amazing woman that she is.”

IngredIents

a 1 small onion

a 4 Tbsp butter

a 1/4 c flour

a 2 c regular sour cream (not light or fat free)

a 12 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

a 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

a 2 30-oz cans whole corn, drained

a 1 tsp salt

- Sauté one small onion in 4 Tbsp butter.

- Add 1/4 c flour to make a paste.

- Add to a bowl, and mix in 2 c sour cream and half the bacon and parsley.

- Add the drained corn and salt, and top with the rest of the parsley and bacon.

- Pour into a 9x13 oven dish, and cook at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes, until it bubbles.

John D. Bertrand, M.D. • Jane E. Nokleberg, M.D. • David M. Bookout, M.D.

James K. Richards, M.D.

Julie M. Hagood, M.D.

Jeffrey M. Thurston, M.D.

Hampton B. Richards, M.D.

FAMOUS MUSHROOM SOUP

from Brian C. Luscher, chef/owner, The Grape restaurant

“I have met people from all over,” says Luscher, a Lake Highlands resident. “When they find out I am the owner of The Grape, I am most often asked ‘Do you still have the mushroom soup?’ I always reply, ‘Oh yeah! We could never take it off the menu.’ ”

What he doesn’t tell them is this recipe has been passed down through the restaurant “family” over 37 years.

Chef Michael Blackwell, whose first stint at The Grape was from 1973-1977, brought quiche and a French leaning to the restaurant’s cuisine. He perfected the mushroom soup recipe and taught it to his cooks, one of which was Hector Cruz. Some 10 years later, Cruz taught the recipe to his younger brother, Juan, a dishwasher at the time. Juan Cruz, 12 years later, passed it on to the youngest Cruz brother, Chuy, also a dishwasher at the time. Chuy Cruz is now the morning sous chef at The Grape. He is teaching the recipe to another cook there.

INGREDIENTS

2½ lbs button mushrooms, washed and chopped (it’s easy to do in a food processor)

1 large onion, diced small

2 cloves garlic, crushed and minced

1 dry bay leaf

1 sprig fresh thyme

¼ c dry sherry (optional)

½ lb unsalted butter (2 sticks)

1 c all-purpose flour

3 qt beef broth or stock, or the equivalent made with beef bouillon cubes

2 c heavy cream

½ tsp ground nutmeg

salt and pepper to taste

- In a heavy-bottomed, 6-8 quart stock or soup pot, melt the butter over medium low heat. Add the onion, garlic, bay leaf and thyme, and cook until translucent.

- Add the chopped mushrooms, and cook until most of the water comes out of them. Add the sherry, if you like, and reduce by 1/2.

Add the flour, and stir well to avoid lumps (if you do get some, it’s OK — they can be pureed out later).

-Slowly whisk in the broth or stock, and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.

- Continue to stir the soup at this point, or the bottom may scorch. When the soup comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes uncovered, stirring occasionally.

- Finish by adding the heavy cream and nutmeg, and add salt and pepper to taste. Remove the thyme and bay leaf, and puree the soup either in a blender or with a hand-held blender.

Notes: Makes 16 servings; the recipe may easily be cut in half, but it is worth making the whole batch because it freezes so well.

CRÈME BRÛLÉE FRENCH TOAST

from Lynn Daniel, builder of the neighborhood’s sweetest breakfast

“My husband, Jeff, and I discovered this recipe at a bed and breakfast in Hot Springs, Ark., early in our marriage,” Daniel says. “We loved it so much, we bought a copy of the cookbook they sold of their original breakfast recipes so that we could make our home our own bed and breakfast.” The dish has since become a standard at the Daniel family home, where it’s regularly served to overnight guests and visiting relatives — especially for breakfast on Christmas morning.

INGREDIENTS

Serves 8

1 stick or ½ c unsalted butter

1 c packed brown sugar

2 Tbsp corn syrup

8-to 9-inch round slices of French bread

8 large eggs

1½ c half-and-half

1 tsp vanilla

2 Tbsp Grand Marnier

¼ tsp salt

- In a glass Pyrex measuring bowl, melt butter with brown sugar and corn syrup for a minute or two, stirring until smooth.

- Pour into a greased 13x9x2 baking dish.

- Cut eight or nine, 1-inch-thick slices from center portion of bread. Arrange bread slices in one layer in baking dish, squeezing them slightly to fit.

- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, vanilla, Grand Marnier and salt until combined well.

-Ladle evenly over bread. Chill bread mixture overnight.

-Preheat oven to 350 degrees, and bring bread to room temperature.

- Bake bread mixture, uncovered, in middle of oven until puffed and edges pale golden, 35-40 minutes. Serve upside down immediately.

tour stops capture our neighborhood’s character

LakeHighlands neverreallylatched on to the mcmansion trend.

It’s not that we didn’t build. We did. And big, in some cases.

but barring a few exceptions, Lake Highlandsseemstohaveavoided those obtrusively excessive footprints and specimens of uninspired architecture and cost-cutting construction that have caused problems in other parts of Dallas.

The bertafamilyhomeon Shoreview oneoffouropento tourists Friday, Dec. 3, during the LakeHighlandsWomen’sLeague Holiday in the Highlands Home Tour is an inspired example of construction, expansion and remodeling that complements rather than upsets the neighborhood mojo.

Tucked into a cul-de-sac, it’s allwindows, or at least that’s the impression a visitormightget.Withthe sun setting on an overcast day, the light emanating from within the home casts a warm glow around its little corner of the world. Somehow, the 5,765-square-footer with its footballfield-sized backyard manages to feel cozy — an adjective typically applied to humbler dwellings but nonetheless fitting.

It was that yard that really hooked the bertas, says Tracey berta, wife of Karl and mom to three boys — Koyt, 3; Jake, 8; and Addison, 10. Passing through her wide-open, wood-floored entryway, she stops at a spot “where the garage used to start”, and looks out over the back porch to a vast expanse of green space.

story by Christina hughesbabb photos by benjamin hager

LEFT/ Builders raised the roof to give this master bedroom a lofted ceiling. BELOW/ Three young boys live at this Shoreview home.

Tracey and Karl Berta, who live on Shoreview, keep their boys’ rooms playful yet presentable for the Lake Highlands Tour of Homes.

“We actually used to live across the street, and we were making plans to expandourhomethat,becauseour familywasgrowing,wasbustingat the seams,” Tracey berta says. “I knew something was going on over here, so I came over to check it out.”

It turned out that local realtor Jan Stellwasremodelingthehomewith plans to sell. The curious couple asked to see the plans and the layout.

“We wanted to get ideas for our own plans,” berta says. “Looking at them, I was like, ‘yeah, I want that!’”

one glance at the yard, and they knew they had to have it. The remodeling and expansion was well underway when the bertas bought it from Stell, and in the final stages they worked closely with the builder to make it their own. The footprint of the home hasn’t changed since it originally was built, but the garage has been transformed into a living room, and most notably, a second floor has beenconstructedandincludesthree bedrooms, a bathroom, a playroom and a game room (yes, playroom and game

ABOVE/ Where the kitchen ends, a garage once began; now the former garage is a rustic living area. LEFT/ The upstairs includes three bedrooms and two play areas.

LEFT/

A Warm Thank You

Dahlia Woods

babybliss & miniME ▪ John Haynesworth Photography ▪ Professional Bank

Local Blinds and Shutters ▪ The Gillespie Law Firm, PLLC ▪ Lure Salon

Dallas Bankruptcy Lawyers ▪ Reginald Johnson, State Farm Insurance ▪ Urban Crust

Dubose Law Firm, PLLC ▪ Meredith Kallaher Designs ▪ W by Worth ▪ DJ Jennifer Miller

Law Office of Edward W. Sampson ▪ WOW VIP Events ▪ Affordable Uniforms

The Barley House & Brian Street Tavern ▪ Kindred Spirits ▪ Suzi Neely Photography

Centennial Fine Wines & Spirits ▪ Fuzzy’s Tacos ▪ The Grubes with The Ticket

Sport Clips at Knox ▪ Sandy Calhoun with Kensington ▪ Cheesecake Love

Elkman Family ▪ White Rock Coffee ▪ Penne Pomodoro ▪ Lakewood Candle

Society Bakery ▪ D’Lish ▪ Paciugo L akewood ▪ Sweet Marcel ▪ Katie Fagelman

Candlelight Tour sponsored by English Heritage Homes of Texas, Inc.

And the gracious homeowners, home captains, market vendors, café vendors, auction donors, volunteer coordinators, and the hundreds of volunteers who made this event possible!

Lake Highlands Christmas Store

room are two separate entities) and a second laundry room.

“As a mom, it is really nice having that upstairs laundry room,” Berta says.

The master bedroom downstairs now has a loftedceiling,andtheupstairs does not extend above it, which presumably makes for quieter nights. The roomy natureofthelayoutmakesforgood acoustics throughout the house.

“I don’t mind that,” Berta says. She likes to be able to hear her boys.

Theholidayhometouroffersthree more equally impressive stops, and also includes a market and luncheon. The event serves as the Women’s League’s majorfundraiser,andtheprofitsgo towardcommunityimprovementand scholarship money for Lake Highlands students, organizers say.

“Lastyear,approximately$170,000 was disbursed from the league for local studentscholarshipsandcommunity projects,”notespublicitychairCheryl Zreet.

Ifyou’veeverattendedtheleague’s springtime ceremony in which the studentsareawardedtheirscholarships, you will see how rewarding this event is, Berta says. It’s not easy making a home with three young boys tour-ready, but for this, she says, “it’s worth it.”

ABOVE/ This hardwood stairway is a recent addition, as is the entire second floor.

OPTOMETRiST

dr. Clint Meyer www.dallaseyeworks.com

Use it or Lose it. Your flex dollars can be used towards sunwear, glasses, contact lenses, and LASIK. Let Dr. Meyer and the staff at Dallas Eyeworks help you get the best value from your benefits so that you can ring in the new year seeing and looking your best!

dALLAS EyEwORKS

9225 GARLAnd ROAd SUiTE 2120, dALLAS, Tx 75218 214.660.9830

iNTERNAL MEdiCiNE

Rachel L. dunagin, M.d.

www.wadehuebner.com

Dr. Dunagin and the other board-certified physicians at Wade-Huebner Clinic are committed to providing advanced medical care while adhering to traditional doctor-patient values. We treat most acute and chronic illnesses and focus on prevention by offering wellness and preventive examinations. We are on the medical staff at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, and we strive to make our patients’ experience a rewarding one that leads to better health and well-being.

wAdE-HUEbnER CLiniC 9301 n. CEnTRAL ExpRESSwAy, SUiTE 670, dALLAS, Tx 75231 214.345.8250

Ashly R. Cothern, ddS, PA

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

COSMETiC ANd FAMiLy dENTiSTRy

dena T. Robinson, ddS, FAGd Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry

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

‘eNougH

is enough

He has strong, sometimes controversial, beliefs about how to make White rock a better place, and he means business

Story by ChriStina hughe Sbabb · Photo by Can türkyilmaz

The white-haired man standing at the peak of Winfrey Point could pass for any casual trail walker or bird gazer.

Wearing a crisp T-shirt, shorts and a smile, he’s more amicable than his recent string of emails have made him seem, but he means business. His eyes fall on the freshly fashioned baseball fields below, and the smile disappears.

What sets Ted Barker apart from the passive meanderer shows in his eyes. It’s a look of disapproval, disgust even.

“It doesn’t make sense,” he says.

Something about those fields has his blood boiling. It’s not that he dislikes baseball or kids. In fact, he says he loves that the Dallas Little League built the youngsters new fields — he even came out to watch them play opening night. But, as he recently told a television news reporter, “It took them days to destroy what it took hundreds of years to make.”

Barker complains that the contractors dumped dirt piles that

BISHOP LYNCH HIGH SCHOOL

bishop lynch high school

9750 ferguson Rd., Dallas 75228 / 214.324.3607 / www.bishoplynch.org. Recognized for student achievement, leadership, and innovation, Bishop Lynch High School continues to build on a rich heritage that prepares graduates for a lifetime of success. The mission of Bishop Lynch High School is to teach students “to strive for academic excellence, to seek truth, and to work for justice in the world.” To see that each student emerges with a well-rounded experience, Bishop Lynch offers first-rate academics, including the largest dual enrollment program of any private school in the state of Texas, extensive guidance as students prepare to enter higher education, and a wide-variety of extracurricular and service activities.

the chilDRen’s centeR

1423 san saba Dr., Dallas / 214.823.2119 / fax 214.321.4666 contactus@thechildrenscenterdallas.org / www.thechildrenscenterdallas.org Established in 1951, the Children’s Center provides a way to introduce children to the arts, the joy of learning and the beauty and wonders of our world. Educating the total child, we place emphasis on developing the child’s social skills and independence. Licensed developmental school for children ages 2 1/2 - 5. We have 2, 3 and 5-day programs, depending on the child’s age. Our school day is from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Extended Day on Mon., Tues., Wed., and Thurs. until 2 pm. We maintain a waiting list and schedule visits to the school in the spring as space becomes available. For more information call us at 214.823.2119

the lab @ laKe highlanDs

10050 shoreview Rd., Dallas 75238 / 214.901.4280 / www.thelabdallas.com

The Lab is a fun place for kids to learn about science! Programs include a mix of demonstrations, hands-on experiments and auditory and sensory stimulation in a fun, age-appropriate environment. Servicing all school-aged children, we offer on-site birthday parties, science fair project mentoring, homework help, enrichment classes, school assemblies and Scout programs. Please visit our website for up to date calendar of activities and events, www.thelabdallas.com.

laKehill pRepaRatoRy school

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

scofielD chRistian school

7730 abrams Rd., Dallas / 214.349.6843 / www.scofieldchristian.org Pre-school6th grade. Open House November 17 @ 10 am. Join us and experience what makes SCS special. Students visit art, computer, music, spanish and library every week. Physical Education is every day! Each grade level also enjoys a series of Discovery Days where students step back in time to experience history brought to life like western, colonial, medieval, and holidays from around the world and more. Join us and you’ll see why Scofield is a great place for your family to discover too!

st. alcUin MontessoRi school

6144 churchill Way, Dallas 75230 / 972.239.1745 / www.saintalcuin.org

Founded in 1964, St. Alcuin Montessori School nurtures and guides children from 18 months through eighth grade according to the principles and methods of Maria Montessori. As the largest Montessori school in the Southwest, St. Alcuin is an independent, nonsectarian, coeducational school serving a diverse community of approximately 490 students. St. Alcuin develops students’ capacities for critical thinking and compassionate action in a complex world. The middle school uses a Montessori approach while following the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (I.B.M.Y.P.) curriculum.

st. john’s episcopal school

848 harter Rd., Dallas 75218 / 214.328.9131 / www.stjohnsschool.org Founded in 1953, St. John’s is an independent, co-educational day school for Pre-K through Grade 8. With a tradition for academic excellence, St. John’s programs include a challenging curriculum in a Christian environment along with instruction in the visual and performing arts, Spanish, German, French, and opportunities for athletics and community service. St. John’s goal for its students is to develop a love for learning, service to others, and leadership grounded in love, humility, and wisdom. Accredited by ISAS, SAES, and the Texas Education Agency.

White RocK MontessoRi school

1601 oates Dr., Dallas / 214-324-5580

Founded in 1975 and located on beautiful, wooded acreage in East Dallas, WRM offers a world- class education to children ages three through 8th grade. The professional staff of this arts-integrated school is supported by specialists in the visual and performing arts, music, Spanish, P.E., and environmental science. The school’s award-winning Discovery Garden provides for an integrated gardening curriculum. Up-to-date technology is integrated into every classroom. Students are noted for their extraordinary levels of personal responsibility, independence, and self- confidence. Contact Sue Henry (214) 324-5580

Zion lUtheRan school

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

are killing protected prairie grasses east of the lake and just north of the Dallas Arboretum.

“What ticks me off is, why did they dump it on the grassland?”

barker, who runs a nonprofit for Korean War veterans out of his lakeside apartment, spends most of his days at White rock, often with his poofy mutt, mr. Woogie in tow, noting in painstaking detail the problems he observes. Then he emails those findings to staffers at the Dallas Police Department, City Hall, Dallas Park Department, homeowners associations, members of the media and anyone else

who might take note.

“I know I’ve irritated everyone to pieces,” he says, “but brevity in dealing with a government does not work.”

And though he can be longwinded, abrasive and incessant, he often makes sense, and he has helped force worthwhile ideas to fruition.

When asked about barker, city staffer Jill beam, an events and reservations manager, says she hears from him all the time. once a week?

“Well, I haven’t heard from him yet this week,” she says.

but then, it’s only Tuesday. She says while he’s relentless with complaints, he sometimes raises valid concerns. barker’s concerns are many: “stupid citizens” who ignore “No vehicles” signs and park on the grassland; municipal vehicles that drive over the wildflowers; race organizers who mark the road with spray paint (“Folks, enough is enough,” he wrote beam regarding the “abuses by the running clubs with paint”); overflowing trash cans; filthy park restrooms; and — the worst offenders in barker’s book — “speeding packs of professional cyclists”.

on that, he says to city staffers and police, “enough is enough. I must insist that you immediately address this situation and stop the practice of high-speed activity on any hike and bike trail.”

His rants often make the evening news — barker sound bites have punctuated Tv reports about baseball field construction delays, cycling accidents and White rock

“I know I’ve irritated everyone to pieces, but brevity in dealing with a government does not work.”

69% of our readers say they want to know more about Private Schools.

Dallas Heritage Village

presented by:

December 11 & 12 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

A Holiday Tradition for 39 Years!

Stroll candlelit paths of 38 historic buildings, circa 1840-1910, decorated for the holidays.

Experience pioneer and Victorian Christmas brought to life. Share memories of holidays past at the “Timeless Toys” exhibit. See and hear local musicians, dancers and storytellers. Ride in a horse drawn carriage or a surrey pulled by donkeys. Whisper holiday wishes in St. Nicholas’ ear. Enjoy ornament making, carolers, holiday food and more!

www.DallasHeritageVillage.org

photo by Lois Lehman

trail lighting plans, to name a few.

Grass fields that once served as parking lots for lake events are now off limits, in part because of Barker’s complaining about runners parking on the grass for races. It’s even more offensive, he says, when people who are attending fundraisers to benefit the lake park on the grass.

“The White Rock Lake Festival is always a seriousmess,”Barkersaysofthe annual event at Boy Scout Hill, south of Mockingbird along East Lawther.

“The police only half-heartedly control traffic and allow parking and pedestrians to trample the supposedly protected prairie grasslands. The irony stings.”

Beam says Barker’s concerns about the grassland are valid.

“I agree,” she says. “People probably don’t need to be parking on the grass.”

Barker says he was impressed with the changes he saw at this year’s festival.

“There’sbeen a dramaticimprovement.” He adds that the Dallas Running Club has been cooperative in educating its members about not parking on the grass.

For years Barker, who worked for the city in the late 1990s when Ron Kirk was mayor, says he brought to light the need for an emergency locator system at the lake.

“You see those signs along the trail?”

He points to a spherical sign that reads, “Your 911 location is WRT 109.”

“That’sso911canknowwhereto send the emergency vehicles if you call,” Barker says. “Before, you call 911, and they don’t have an address and don’t know where to send help.”

Until an issue hits the evening news, Barker says, the city often doesn’t listen to him. That’s how the signs got there, he says.

A dog attacked his brother, Hal, along WhiteRock Trail. Hal called for help, but the operator couldn’t get a location.

“That’s what started it all,” Barker says. The dog attack turned into a bigger news story about safety issues.

“It took three years to get the system into place, but I think this is one example of how something good came of all the complaining.”

Jan Stell 214.355.3118 Merry Christmas! Thank you for a fabulous year –such a blessing to work in Lake Highlands

cyclist struck and killed a runner, Barker had been meeting with city officials and Dallas police in an effort to reduce the speed on the trails. Barker says he has put in untold calls and emails, and has addressed the city’s park board regarding what he calls a “dangerous” situation.

So far, he says, “problems have been discussed and interim remedies decided upon” but nothing tangible has come of his efforts. “There is still no ordinance forthehike/bike[trail] free-for-all allowed,” he says.

DallasPoliceAssistantChiefTom Lawrence,whousedtocommandthe NortheastPatrolDivision,sayshefrequently has talked to Barker. “A lot of what [Barker] says makes sense. He’s not crazy.But that type of speed limit probably won’t make sense here,” Lawrence says.

Barker has helped the Park Department plan a safer bike route on the north side of White Rock Trail, according to assistant department director Willis Winters.

“I haven’t had that much direct interaction with Barker, but he does include me on all of his emails. He did prove to be very insightful when it came to planning a new, safer bike route along part of the trail; unfortunately, it won’t be implementeduntilNorthwestHighway [construction] is complete.”

Willissaysdifferentpeopleprobably have different experiences with and opinions about Barker. And Barker doesn’t mind being perceived as pushy.

“I learned how to work the system,” he says. “You don’t get anything by being polite.”

His only agenda, he says, is to convince people to treat White Rock the way it deserves to be treated. The city and Park Department have done some marvelous things at the lake, Barker says, but they need to be pushed when it comes to overall maintenance.

“This should be the gem of our city. This park is a jewel that should be treasured,” Barker says. “I know I come across as ultra-negative, but there is just no other way.”

“I learned how to work the system. You don’t get anything by being polite.”

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Tom Thumb To Town CenTer?

Tom Thumb may build a new store in the Lake Highlands Town Center, according to commercial real estate sources.

Town Center developer Prescott Realty’s original design includes a 25,000-square-foot grocery store anchoring the project near the southeast corner of Walnut Hill and Skillman. Tom Thumb’s typical store is much bigger than this allotted space, and the grocer already has two stores nearby — a 78,000-squarefoot store at Skillman and Abrams, and a 52,000 square-foot store at Skillman and Royal in Royal Highlands Plaza.

But the real estate pros, who asked to remain anonymous, tell us that Tom Thumb would likely close both stores if it opens a new Town Center store.

If that’s the case, “I wouldn’t imagine them going down much more” in size than the existing stores, says Ethan Slavin, director of leasing for JAH Realty, which owns current Tom Thumb landlord Royal Highlands Plaza. Slavin says he is “hearing the same rumors” about Tom Thumb closing its neighboring stores and consolidating at the Town Center, but adds, “we’ll probably be the last to know.”

The leasing agent for the Skillman-Abrams center housing Tom Thumb, Marcia Minton, declined to comment, referring all questions to Tom Thumb. Tom Thumb also didn’t respond, and Prescott says: “We don’t have any comments or updates at this time.”

David Cossum, City of Dallas assistant director of sustainable development and construction, says a grocery store larger than originally planned at the Town Center wouldn’t require Prescott to go through another public hearing zoning process. The city’s Planned Development regulations for the Town Center allow for up to 300,000 non-residential square feet in the quadrant containing the prospective grocery store, so Tom Thumb could build a much larger grocery store than originally planned “as long as they could comply with the build-to regulations and any other requirements with TIF [Tax Increment Financing],” Cossum says.

However, Cossum says about the larger store footprint, “obviously, it’s not what was envisioned as a walkable development.”

Councilman Jerry Allen says the Skillman TIF requirements “wouldn’t affect any plans” for a larger grocery store: “Our whole objective on the Town Center is making sure it is a success, and we, quite frankly,

have been working with Prescott to make sure that happens.”

The successful November wet-dry election means any grocery store anchoring the Town Center will be allowed to sell wine and beer, pending a threatened lawsuit challenging the election. Tom Thumb’s SkillmanAbrams store is in a previously wet area, but the Royal Highlands Plaza Tom Thumb is in a previously dry area.

Large, mixed-use developments such as the Town Center — a combination of retail, restaurant, office and residential space — “are going to be few and far between” in the immediate future because they aren’t financially feasible in today’s economic environment, says Regency Centers managing director John Delatour.

David Wilson, connected development services president for The Retail Connection, says the problem with mixed-use developments is that they include too many different components.

“The Lake Highlands Town Center is a project that looks good, and the customers in the area really desire it to happen, but it is so hard to put together all those components at the same time,” Wilson says.

LH DART sTATion oPens THis monTH

On Dec. 6, riders can begin boarding DART’s Lake Highlands Rail station. It’s the line’s “first infill station,” DART spokesman Morgan Lyons says, meaning it’s being added to the Blue Line in a spot where the Blue Line is currently operating, rather than being constructed as part of a new line or being tacked on to one end of an existing line.

The station is just north of Walnut Hill and east of Skillman, and because of the Town Center’s mixeduse design, the station was designated a “kiss and ride” rather than a “park and ride”, meaning users will be either dropped off (hence the goodbye kiss) or among what DART believes will be thousands of people eventually living within walking distance of the station. Prescott included 1,700 residential units in its Town Center design, but no residences are expected to be constructed until Prescott secures retail businesses.

On-site parking is limited to 62 spots west of the Lake Highlands station. New bus routes beginning Dec. 6 will take riders directly to the station via Whistle Stop Place, a new road off Walnut Hill that leads to the station.

LH PLAZA SOLD; BULK TO BE RESIDENTIAL

Christon Company has closed on its purchase of Lake Highlands Plaza and plans to convert much of the vacant retail space on the southwest corner of Audelia and Walnut Hill into residential property. The 7-Eleven and the L-shaped building that wraps around it (which includes Highlands Cafe and T. Hee Greetings), will remain, says Jim Christon, who says he’s managing the project for two investors who asked not to be named.

The rest of the center will be torn down, and in its place will be about 20 homes, each between 3,500 and 4,000 square feet and costing between $650,000 to $700,000, Christon says.

Converting retail property to residential property, Christon says, “may be unusual, but it’s not going to be unusual, especially in Lake Highlands — there’s too much retail, and the retail business is not what it used to be Cities like Dallas are going to have to learn that. If they don’t, then you’re going to have rundown retail with tenants that are not desirable.”

Lake Highlands Plaza was purchased out of foreclosure, and among bidders for the property were The Retail Connection and Lake Highlands United Methodist Church. Now that Christon’s group has closed on the property, he says homes should be on the market within about two years. Christon says he hasn’t yet found builders, but says he’s confident that won’t be a problem because of the demand for this kind of project.

The project also will require a zoning change from commercial to residential. Lake Highlands’ councilman Jerry Allen says “it’s pretty much the general consensus that neighbors there would look favorably” toward such a project.

Allen also says “we will do some things on the city level with the infrastructure,” indicating he intends to help the project receive Tax Increment Financing (TIF) reimbursement from the city for items such as roads, sidewalks, streetlights and utility set-up. The project is located within the boundaries of the Skillman Corridor TIF.

“If I had my druthers,” Allen says, the retail property across Audelia from Christon’s project will be the second retail-to-residential project in Lake Highlands.

“I would have hoped to already have gotten control of that other location. It’s an eyesore to some degree,” Allen says. “I’d love to be able to mirror exactly what we do on the west side and make it happen on the east side.” —KERI

MITCHELL

TO READ MORE, visit advocatemag.com and search: “Lake Highlands Town Center” and “Lake Highlands Plaza”.

A Lake Highlands High School course is pairing local students and businesses together for a work-study program. A few local businesses giving back include White Rock North Private School, Medallion Animal Clinic and State Farm Insurance-Kay Patel. Amy Lowe, who is teaching the high school’s new Practicum in Business Management course, says the hands-on course is making a big impact on students. Because of the program’s success, the number of students applying next year is anticipated to increase, so Lowe is hoping to round up even more local business to participate. If you are an interested LH shop owner or office manager, email Lowe at amy.lowe@richardson.k12.tx.us.

Papa Murphy’s Pizza 1 is opening on the northeast corner of Northwest Highway and Plano Road in a newly constructed brick retail center. Papa Murphy’s, a chain with more than 1,150 stores, is known for its take-and-bake pizza concept, although its menu also includes cheesy bread, salads and desserts. The company launched in 1981 and has restaurants in 35 states across the country. Customers can drop in and grab a standard menu item, or create a custom pizza to-go.

On that same side of town, S’Nails, a new nail salon and spa, opened in suite 1615 in the retail center near Kroger on Plano Road and Northwest Highway. To celebrate the grand opening, services are 20 percent off, and customers can currently get a pedicure for $16.

Doctors Express 2 ,a national urgent-care franchise, opened its first North Texas center in November. Located at Royal and Skillman in Royal HighlandsPlaza, the 2,515-square-foot center includes a triage room, four exam rooms, lab, digital X-ray and an electronic medical record system. Franchise owner Carol Ansley describes Doctors Express as “the convenient, affordable and easily accessible high-quality health care choice when [neighbors] cannot get an appointment with their primary care physician, or they need urgent care.” The center accepts most insurance plans, and is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and weekends from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.Walk-ins are welcome; no appointment is needed. The center promises that patients will always be treated by a physician, board certified in either family practice or internal medicine, and that most patients will be seen in 15 minutes.

After 20 years in business, Sweet Temptations Café 3 has closed its doors. Owners Clare and

Hans van Loenen opted not to renew their lease in the shopping center at Skillman and Audelia. Famous for its ST Crabcakes and Lake Highlands Rock Cake (often washed down with apricot tea), ST Café has been a frequent recipient of many “best of ...” (fill in the blank: bakery, dessert, sweet treats, etc.) awards and nominations over the years, often credited to made-from-scratch icing and dessert recipes handed down from the original owners 50 years ago. An excerpt from a note the van Loenens posted on the restaurant’s website says, “Clare and I would like to thank you, our loyal customers, for the wonderful support you have given us over the years ...You have become dear friends ...we will close our doors with great sadness in our hearts.”

If you’re looking for another local favorite to fill your sweet tooth void, a few other “best” businesses in the same category are Casa Linda Bakery, casalindabakery.com (10819 Garland Road), and Cake Ball Company 4 , cakeballs.com (10230 East Northwest Highway). And, recognized as one of Ellen Degeneres’ “Top 10 Cupcake” award recipients, Society Bakery (which now has a Medical City location) is running a delicious deal to celebrate its seventh anniversary in business. Throughout December, patrons celebrating birthdays with a “seven” in them (17, 27, 70, 1975) will receive a free cupcake or whoopie pie. Also, patrons who buy three products will receive a fourth bakery item free. Visit societybakery.com for details.

Join the discussion.

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

neighborhood businesses. Send Moyer ideas and feedback at

A ChristmAs gift for Jews

P EACE On EARTH REq UIRES Un DERSTA n DInG BAPtist

forest meAdow / 9150 Church Rd. / Welcoming the mosaic of cultures living in our neighborhoods / www.fmbcdallas.org

Worship 10:50 / Bible Study 9:30 / Tim Ahlen, Pastor / 214.341.9555

LAKeside BAPtist / 9150 Garland Rd / 214.324.1425

Pastor Jeff Donnell / Worship 10:50 am www.lbc-dallas.org

wiLshire BAPtist / 4316 Abrams / 214.452.3100

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

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

BiBL e C hUrC hes

North highLANds BiBLe ChUrCh / www.nhbc.net

Sunday: Lifequest (all ages) 9:00 am / Worship 10:30 am

Wed: Student Ministry 7:00 pm / 9626 Church Road / 214.348.9697

dis CiPL es of Christ

eAst 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

ePis CoPAL

ChUrCh of the iNCArNAtioN / 3966 McKinney Ave / 214.521.5101

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

Contemporary 9:00, 11:15 am and 5:30 pm / incarnation.org

LU therAN

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

methodist

L AKe highLANds UmC / 9015 Plano Rd. (at McCree)

214.348.6600 / www.lhumc.com / Sun. School 9:45 am

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

NoN- de NomiNAtioNAL

L AKe highLANds ChUrCh / 9919 McCree

Sun. Classes 9:30 am, Assembly 11:00 am / 214.348.0460

Home groups meet on weeknights. / lakehighlandschurch.org

white roCK CommUNity ChUrCh / 9353 Garland Rd /214.320.0043

Sun. Bible Study 9:30 am, Worship 10:45 am / Wed. Bible Studies

10:00 am & 7:30 pm / event facilities for rent / whiterockchurch.org

Pres B yteriAN

L AKe highLANds PresByteriAN ChUrCh / 214.348.2133

8525 Audelia Road at nW Hwy. / www.lhpres.org

Christian Ed. 9:45 am, 9:00 am Contemporary, 11:00 am Traditional

NorthPArK PresByteriAN ChUrCh / 214.363.5457

9555 n. Central Expwy. / www.northparkpres.org

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

Some Christians will get a Christmas gift this year that goes unnoticed by too many.

Christmas Day will find hospitals and other businesses staffed by Jews who graciously swap off-days with Christians. It’s an annual act of grace by people (Jews) said to be more about law than grace, on behalf of people (Christians) said to be more about grace than law.

It would be interesting to check the work logs on Yom Kippur to see if the converse is true — whether Christians work that day for Jews in order that the latter may observe the Day of Atonement. Surely the daughter religion should honor her mother, given the sacrifices the mother has made for her daughter.

Putting it that way, though, is confusing in its cleverness.

Christians talk of sacrifice as being accomplished once and for all on the cross of Christ. The Jewish sacrificial system thus comes to an end as Jesus offers himself up as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of the world. He is the Christ — the Messiah — who establishes lasting peace between God and humanity. Christmas celebrates one aspect of that sacrifice by affirming the purity of it from the start, due to the virginal conception and birth of Jesus.

Jews sometimes cringe at these claims, while Christians are left wondering why Jews can’t see their own logic that would lead to one faith, not two. But in the spirit of the season and in the pursuit of peace on earth and good will to all, maybe we Christians can step back a bit from the manger and consider why Jews don’t join us in the stable celebration.

As a Christian, I cannot speak for Jews, but I can at least report on what I have heard from them as a Christmas gift in return.

First, just as ittois “just get over” the pain of divorce and the memories of what happened to cause it, so it’s naïve to think that Jews today can separate Christian belief in Jesus as Messiah from untoward Christian behavior toward Jews who don’t so believe.

The old saying holds: “What you do speaks so loudly I can’t hear what you say.” Christians have a shameful history of scapegoating Jews (read discrimination, pogroms, the Holocaust, and continued hate crimes) for their supposed guilt in crucifying Jesus and rejecting his messiahship. That’s a lot to just get over.

Second, all Jews were not in Jesus’ day, and are not in our day, looking for an individual messiah of Israel And those that were, were not necessarily looking for more than a messiah of Israel. Jews normally read passages from Isaiah about an individual messiah as being a metonym for the messianic mission of Israel as a whole. They think of it this way: Messiah is to Israel as Uncle Sam is to the United States Government; the individual symbolically personifies the people.

Third, one of the chief duties of Israel has been to proclaim the one God to a world prone to worship many gods. The Trinity confuses strict monotheists: To say that Jesus is Lord either empties heaven of the one God, or makes two gods. The Christmas claim therefore imperils the first article of Jewish belief that lies at the center of their existence.

Finally, any notion of messianic kingdom was filled with expectation of eternal peace and justice, God having put down the powers of evil for good and for good. While Christians declare that truth too, we emphasize the “already” and Jews the “not yet” of these hopes. Which makes many Jews still unable to consider Jesus as God’s messiah.

These disagreements don’t even address other matters like our views of covenant, salvation, the afterlife, judgment and reward, and resurrection. Jews and Christians are people somehow divided by a common ancestor — Jesus — but nevertheless united by a common God — Jesus’ Father.

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.

business

City CounCil approved an ordinance in October to regulate farmers markets, which affects establishments like White Rock Local Market, 702 Buckner. The ordinance requires a yearly fee of $200$300 per market. Such markets can operate up to 28 nonconsecutive days a year. Markets must be located outside of downtown and away from residential areas, and have at least a one-mile distance between another farmers market.

community

Dallas arboretum, with support from Doctors Hospital, offers a two-for-one admission discount on Thursdays to neighborhood residents living in the zip codes 75214, 75218, 75228, 75231 and 75238. The special runs through Dec. 31. Parking is $7 per car. For details, call 214.515.6500 or visit dallasarboretum.org.

episCopal ChurCh of the asCension has opened a new parents’ day out program for 18-month-olds through 3-year-olds. The church is located at 8787 Greenville between Forest and Royal. The program is now taking registrations, and is offering holiday drop-in service on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through December 23. The cost is $35 per day, and 24-hour notice is required. For information, contact Ascension’s parents’ day out director, Vosica Walker, at 214.340.4196 or voscia.walker@ascensiondallas.org.

education

lake highlanDs high sChool is seeking more local businesses to participate in the work-study program, Practicum in Business Management. Business owners who would like to take a Lake Highlands student under their wing can email Amy Lowe at amy. lowe@richardson.k12.tx.us.

the lake highlanDs laDy wilDCat soCCer team is raising money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, offering longsleeved Wildcat T-shirts for $15. To learn how to donate, visit ntxok. dojiggy.com and click on “find a school” to find Lake Highlands’s link. hamilton park paCesetter magnet elementary celebrated 55 years with a three-day reunion of more than 700 former students and community members. The RISD campus originally opened as a 12-grade school in 1955, and became an elementary magnet in the early 1970s.

member of the club since 1995, and has held several positions in other volunteer organizations such as Richardson Youth Services Council, Turtle Creek Manor and Boy Scouts of America.

k ay manglesDorf, school nurse at St. Patrick Catholic School, received a Work of Heart Award in October from the Catholic Foundation for her commitment and leadership in the classroom. The award, which is given monthly to Dallas Catholic schoolteachers, includes a $500 grant. Over the past five years, the Catholic Foundation has awarded $450,000 in grant money.

volunteers

ywCa of metropolitan Dallas urgently needs bilingual volunteers to help deliver free financial education workshops and mammogram screenings in Dallas County. Training is provided. Call 214.584.2348 or email lhudson@ywcadallas.org.

lake highlanDs high sChool pta has started its annual Community Outreach Angels program that allows participants to “Adopt a Family for the Holidays” by donating gift cards, stuffing stockings, or preparing holiday meals. To get involved, email Kim Aman at kim.aman@risd.org.

skyview elementary received a $10,000 check after winning the Pogue Construction Flame Award. Skyview is the first school to win the award, which is open to RISD elementary schools with exemplary Texas Education Agency ratings and superior technology integration.

people

phillip r. Jones, a 30-year Lake Highlands resident, is the new board chairman for the Salesmanship Club Youth and Family Centers, which serve at-risk children in the community. Jones has been a

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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.

ScENE & hEArD

EAS y AS piE

Dallas Lutheran School senior Salim Killo and junior h ernando c ruz compete in a pie eating contest at the school’s homecoming pep rally. Sophomore Nathan Barker is the lion mascot.

HEALTH RESOURCE bu LLE ti N bo

TuToring & Lessons

ART: Draw or Paint. All Levels. L. Highlands North 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

DALLAS TEST PREP Tutoring: SAT, ACT, THEA, TExES, Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Cal. www.dallastestprep.com, 214-686-8980(M)

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

FUN TUTORING FOR PRE K - ELEMENTARY! Learning with games, songs and prizes. Call “Grambo.” 214-824-2960

LEARN GUITAR OR PIANO Winter Special. Fun/Easy. Your Home. UNT Grad. Larry 469-358-8784

PROFESSIONAL PIANO & THEORY LESSONS All Levels & Ages. Exp Teacher MM Degree. Nadia 214-543-7903

TUTORING ALL SUBJECTS Including Algebra 2/ Chemistry. In Your Home. Jennie. 214-597-6925

VOICE TEACHER with 38 years experience. MM, NATS, MTNA www.PatriciaIvey.com 214-324-5625

Spanish Immersion Classes in East Dallas

Private and Small Group Classes for Adults & Children Spanish Immersion Preschool Mon. - Fri.

5740 Prospect Ave. #1000

DallasSpanishHouse.com 214-826-4410

ChiLdCare

empLoymenT

AIRLINES are hiring. Train for high paying Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified. Housing available. Aviation Institute of Maintenance. 866-453-6204

INTERNATIONAL COMPANY SEEKS PRODUCT REPS 940-295-4500 www.wellnessdelivered.org

NOW HIRING Companies desperately need employees to assemble products at home. No selling. Any hours. $500 weekly potential. 1-985-646-1700 Dept TX-1856

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

ChiLdCare

CHILD CARE - East Dallas Developmental Center (eddc.net) Spaces avail. 3/4 yr. olds. eddcad@gmail.com 214-821-7766

EXPERIENCED OVERNIGHT CAREGIVER FOR INFANTS including multiples. References. Kendell 214-346-9220

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

PREMIER HOUSE SITTER Mature, professional, highly referenced. Neatnik. Also property management. Heather. 214-500-7876. premierhousesit@aol.com

THE CHANGING STATION Cloth Diapering & Eco-Essentials. 469-575-6837. www.thechangingstation.net

YOUR COMPUTER GEEK Let Me Solve Your Computer Problems. 25 Yrs. Exp. Hardware/Software Issues/Install. Network

Grace Darden enjoys bungee jumping at the Moss Haven Elementary Madness Carnival, which attracted more than 150 people. The event raises money for school programs and educational opportunities.

serviCes for you

Creating extraordinary parties and unforgettable memories

galasbyginger.com

Holiday/Birthday Parties Bridal/Baby Showers

214.683.0103

ginger@galasbyginger.com

A DESIGNERS TOUCH FOR ORGANIZATION

Declutter & Organize. Sue Benson 214-349-9064

ORGANIZE & REJUVENATE

Enhance Your Home And Life. Linda 972-816-8004

professionaL serviCes

1ST TIME BUYERS and Low Refi rates. Call UMAX Mortgage Stephanie Glazer 214-579-1493 sglazer@umaxmortgage.com

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

Professional services

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

HEALTH & LIFE INSURANCE Small businesses, Individuals & Families. Local Agent Lori Huff 214-738-4783

QUICKBOOKS Having Issues? Free Consultation. Jack Hicks 214-734-4767 jchicks@sbcglobal.net

CHARACTER COUNTS

Website Design

Flash Demos

Graphic Design

RibbitMultimedia .com 214.560.4207

Mind, Body & sPirit

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

IN HOME professional personal trainer. moneyback guarantee. Many specialties. www.silverstarfitness.com 972-800-8031

W.O.W. WE ONLY WAX www.weonlywax.com Full body waxing for men and women. 214-739-2929

WWW.TRAINWITHJEAN.COM On-Line Training Or Golds Gym White Rock Lke. email@trainwithjean.com 214-886-1459

Pets

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

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

Buy/sell/trade

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

TADDY’S PET

SERVICES

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

AAAA DONATE YOUR CAR Free towing. “Cars For Kids” Any condition. Tax deductible. outreachcenter.com

1-800-597-9411

DONATE your car, truck, boat to Heritage For The Blind. Free 3 day vacation. Tax deductible. Free towing. All paperwork taken care of. 1-888-962-1498

OLD GUITARS WANTED Gibson, Fender, Gretsch, Martin. 1920s-1980s. Top dollar paid. Toll Free 1-866-433-8277

SAVVY CONSIGNMENTS Eclectic Furniture & Accessories. Great Gifts. Affordable Pricing. 214-660-8700

TEXAS RANGERS BASEBALL SUITE

Share this prime suite on a partial basis (sets of 5,10 or 20 games) during the 2011 season. Our suite is located directly behind home plate, and each game includes 16 tickets, three parking passes, game day programs, private bathroom, air-conditioned seating, three televisions with cable channels, and a great view of the game and the Ballpark. Great for birthday parties, anniversaries, family reunions and client appreciation events. Email rangerssuite@gmail.com or call 214-560-4212 for more information.

Grand Opening in December 2010! Gra

We buy and sell gently used kids stuff. You get cash on the spot for your gently used clothing, toys, furniture & equipment. 6300 Skillman St @ Abrams Rd 214-503-6010 www.onceuponachildlakehighlands.com

estate/GaraGe sales

ESTATE SALES & LIQUIDATION SERVICES

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

real estate

LAND LIQUIDATION 20 acres $0 down. $99/mo. Only $12,900. Near growing El Paso, TX. Guaranteed owner financing. No credit checks. Money back guarantee. Free map, pictures. 866-465-0177 sunsetranches.com

The Vaughan Group

A FAMILY TRADITION FOR 60 YEARS Quigley Heat & Air 214-526-8533

BLUE RIBBON HEAT & AIR Lic#TACLB28522E Best Service - Best Prices 214-823-8888

CHAMNESS SERVICES A/C & Heat Sales & Service. Res/Com. Serving Dallas 21 yrs. 214-328-0938 TACL003800C

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

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

Ask

Winter Specials

$49 FURNACECHECK

$300 OFFANYNEWFURNACE

www.SherrellAir.com

972-216-1961

TACL-B01349OE

APPLIANCE REPAIR/SERVICE

APPLIANCE REPAIR SPECIALIST

Repair, Sales. 214-321-4228

JESSE’S A/C & APPLIANCE SERVICE

TACLB13304C All Makes/Models. 214-660-8898

CARPENTRY & REMODELING

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

DAVIS Custom Carpentry & Home Repair/Remodel davis.charles94@yahoo.com 214-608-9171

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

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

PREVIEW CONSTRUCTION INC.

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

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

SQUARE NAIL WOODWORKING

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

CALL 214-560-4203 TO ADVERTISE JAN. DEADLINE DEC. 8 214.348.4200 www.remodeldallas.com

CARPENTRY & REMODELING A K S CONSTRUCTION Residential Remodel and Construction 469 767 1868 joshangus@aksdallas.com www.aksdallas.com TACLA28514E American GENERAL CONTRACTOR Air Conditioning & Heating Sales, Service, All Brands. ONE SOURCE — ALL YOUR NEEDS 214-350-0800 Building Services BRIAN GREAM RENOVATIONS LLC 214.542.6214 WWW.BGRONTHEWEB.COM BRIANGREAM@YAHOO.COM

IN-HOUSE

214.341.1448

WWW.OBRIENGROUPINC.COM

VISA, MASTER CARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS

RYAN & BOZEMAN HOMES Design | Build | Remodel Preserving neighborhoods Lakewood, Lake Highlands and Preston Hollow 214.828.4114 ryanbozeman.com

CLEANING SERVICES

$10 OFF 1ST CLEAN A CLEAN SWEEP We Do It All. Pet Sit Also. 469-951-2948 214-938-4284

15.00 OFF - HOUSE CLEANING BY DEBBIE Free estimates. References. 972-333-7942

CINDY’S HOUSE CLEANING 15 yrs exp. Resd/Com. Refs. Dependable. 972-213-8614

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

DIANE’S CLEANING SERVICE Residential & Make Ready. Free Estimates. 214-549-5299

KDR SERVICES Residential and Vacant Property Cleaning. 214-349-0914

MAID 4 YOU Residential. Reasonable Rates. Bonded & Insured. Park Cities/M Street Refs. Joyce. 214-232-9629

Total

Cleaning Service. 15 Yrs Exp. Residential.

PayPal ®

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

WANTED Houses To Clean & Windows To Wash 20 Years Exp., Reliable, Great Prices, Excellent Refs., Free Estimates. 214-724-2555

WINDOW MAN WINDOW CLEANING.COM

Cleaning ServiCeS

MAIDS AND HOME SERVICES

Since 1983 · satisfaction guaranteed

carpet windows lawn

eleCtriCal ServiCeS

MCCARTER ELECTRICAL SERVICE, INC.

We can light up your world or repair your shorts. $50 Off Service Calls. TECL#19347 972-877-4183

972.495.3478

beckncallmaids.com

ComputerS & eleCtroniCS

214-321-1110 I.T. ROADMAP Tech Support Home or Business computers repaired. Virus, Internet, wireless, slow, All fixed! Brad or Amy

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 Computer. Hardware & Software Installation, Troubleshooting, Training, $60/hr. 1 Hr. Min. Dan 214-660-3733 Or stykidan@sbcglobal.net

I CAN FIX IT NOW! 214-926-7144 Computer & Network Support. Operating Systems, Hardware, Security & Game Consoles. OMGFixit.com.

ConCrete/ maSonry/paving

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

EDMOND’S PAVING Asphalt & Concrete •Driveways •Sidewalks •Patios •Repairs 214-957-3216 • www.edmondspaving.com

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

MASONRY Brick/Stone Repairs. Don 214-704-1722

• Swimming Pool Remodel

• Patios

FireplaCe ServiCeS

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

• Stone work

• Stamp Concrete

972-727-2727

Deckoart.com

eleCtriCal ServiCeS

ABBA ELECTRIC Fast Courteous Service. Resd/Com. 10% Off for New Clients. 214-886-2202. TECL#20663

ACCURATE ELECTRIC

All Jobs.Panel Upgrades. Free Est. TECL# 27297. Steve. 214-718-9648

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

LICENSED ELECTRICIAN Res/Commercial 20 yrs exp. Free est. 972-489-1597 Brian

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

SWITCH ELECTRIC Lic. #E19800 24/7 Calls 30 yrs exp. Federal panel chgs. 214-629-0391

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 CONSUMERS CHOICE AWARDS Making Homes Safer One Call at a Time

TECL20502

972-665-8399

dallaselectricalexperts.com

Phones Answered 24/7

FenCing & DeCkS

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

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

A FATHER, SON & GRANDSON TEAM Wood Fences, Automatic Gates & Decks Call Haven Edwards 214-327-0560

AMBASSADOR FENCE INC. Automatic Gates, All Fences. Decks. Since 1996. 214-621-3217

AUTO GATES $2500 alwaysbiltrite.com 469-878-4450. cc’s accptd

AUTOMATIC DRIVEWAY GATES Installation, Repair, Maintenance, Residential, Commercial. Lone Star Access Control. 214-532-9608

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

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

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

214.692.1991

Flooring & Carpeting

AUREUS HARDWOOD FLOORS 972-207-4262. www.northtxflooring.com

DALLAS HARDWOODS 214-724-0936

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

MASTERPIECE HARDWOODS Install, Sand And Finish. Old World Handscrapes. 469-853-2039

STAINED CONCRETE FLOORS

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

SUPER QUALITY WOOD FLOORS

Jim Crittendon, 214-821-6593

WORLEY TILE & FLOORING

Custom Marble Install. 214-779-3842

Beautiful

ACCESS GARAGE DOOR New Install. Repair/Replace. 24/7 Emgcy. Free Estimates. 214-585-7663 perfectaccessgaragedoors.com

HOLLYWOOD DOOR CO. Since 1938. Residential/Commercial. Sales. Service. All Brands of Garage Doors & Openers. Free Estimates. 214-348-7242. 9525 White Rock Trail, 75238. ROCKET GARAGE DOOR SERVICE -24/7. Repairs/Installs. 214-533-8670. Coupon On Web. www.RocketDoorService.com

UNITED GARAGE DOORS All Types Of Garage Doors & Openers. Repair Or Replace. Commercial And Gates. 214-826-8096

glaSS, WinDoWS & DoorS

A FATHER, SON & GRANDSON TEAM Expert Window Cleaning. Storm windows our specialty. Haven Edwards 214-327-0560

CLEARWINDOWSANDDOORS.COM LH owned Replacement windows. Free Quote 214-280-9280

CUSTOM STAINED/ LEADED GLASS & Repair. 26 years exp. 214-356-8776

GREEN WINDOW COMPANY 214-295-5405

Specialty in Replacement Windows/Doors

KENNY’S CLEAN WINDOWS Res./Com. Window Cleaning, Powerwash, Etc. 214-881-8061

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

ROCK GLASS CO Complete Glass & Window Service since 1985. Replace, repair: windows, mirrors, showers, screens. 214-837-7829

HanDyman ServiCeS

4 SEASONS HANDYMAN We do it all! Call 469-723-1000

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

A+ HANDYMAN KARL

All Home Repairs, Remodels, Maintenance, To-Dos. 214-699-8093

ALL JOBS BIG/SMALL

38 years exp. Ron Payne 214-755-9147

ALL STAR HOME CARE Carpentry, Glass, Tile, Paint, Doors, Sheetrock Repair, and more. 24 yrs. exp. References. Derry 214-505-4830

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

CARPENTRY, PAINT & MORE Repair to Remodel. No job too small. Zane 214-778-9121

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

Call 214-560-4203 to advertise

Handyman ServiceS

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

HOME REPAIR & MAINTIANCE

Small/Large Jobs.Steve Brandt. 214-440-7070

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

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

KIRKPATRICK Home Service 214-729-8334

Skilled Carpentry • White Rock area 28 Years

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

RENT A MAN HANDYMAN

One call does it all! 214-289-0307

WANTED: ODD JOBS & TO DO LISTS

Repair, Paint, Clean, Install. 26 years experience. Allen’s Handyman & Home Repair 214-288-4232

HouSe Painting

WHITE ROCK INTERIORS Paint & Remodel References. Mark Reindel 214-321-5280

BRIAN GREAM

PAINTING & RENOVATIONS LLC

• Interior/Exterior • Drywall

• Rotten Wood • Gutters

KitcHen/BatH/ tile/grout

WE REFINISH!

• Tubs, Tiles or Sinks

• Cultured Marble

• Kitchen Countertops

lawnS, gardenS & treeS

HOLISTIC TREE CARE

A Full-Service Tree Care Company

Chuck Ranson, Certified Arborist c.ranson@sbcglocal.net 214-537-2008

HOLMAN IRRIGATION

Holiday decorating

MAID 4 YOU Holiday Cleaning/Decorating. Gift Cards Available. Joyce. 214-232-9629

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

85% Referrals/Estimates 214-348-5070

A TEXTURE & FINISH SPECIALIST

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

ABRAHAM PAINT SERVICE A Women Owned Business 25 Yrs. Int/Ext. Wall Reprs. Discounts

On Whole Interiors and Exteriors 214-682-1541

BENJAMIN’S PAINTING SERVICE Quality

Work At Reasonable Prices. 214-725-6768

CERTAPRO PAINTERS

Residential painting. Call today for your free estimate. 214-346-0900

MANNY’S HOME PAINTING & REPAIR

Int./Ext. Sheetrock. Manny 214-554-1327

RAMON’S INT/EXT PAINT

Sheetrock, Repairs. 214-679-4513

TOP COAT Professional. Reliable. References. TopCoatOfTexas.com 214-770-2863

VIP PAINTING & DRYWALL Int/Ext.

Sheetrock Repair, Resurfacing Tubs, Counters, Tile Repairs. 972-613-2585

All General Contracting Needs 214.542.6214

PayPal ®

WWW.BGRONTHEWEB.COM

BRIANGREAM@YAHOO.COM

214-631-8719

www.allsurfacefinishing.com

MULTI-SURFACE RESTORATION

TUBS/TILE/COUNTERTOPS 972.323.8375

WWW.PERMAGLAZENORTHDALLAS.COM

inSulation/ radiant Barrier

SAVE UP TO 40% on your energy bills! Insulation, Radiant Barrier and Weatherization. Instant quotes at Millsquote.com 214-879-9881

interior deSign

A LADY’S TOUCH WALLPAPERING

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

DESIGNER CONSULTATION 1 Hr. Session $95. Trained / Reg. ASID Designer Carl 214-288-3298

JUDY BUELL, ASID

• Custom interior design & renovations

• Updates with existing furnishings

• Consultations - TBAE #390 - 214-342-0841

KIM ARMSTRONG INTERIOR DESIGN www.interiorsbykim.com

Licensed/CID/ASID 214-500-0600

LILLI DESIGN Residential, Commercial. NCIDQ Cert.10 Yrs Exp. www.lilli-design.com

Katie Reynolds 214-370-8221

KitcHen/BatH/ tile/grout

A KITCHEN & BATH Remodeling Company. One Call Does It All! 214-574-9182

GET GRANITE at Heritage Stonecraft 972-496-3899 heritagestonecraft.com

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

TILE INSTALLER 25 Yrs. Exp In Design & Art of Tile. Back Splash, Fireplace, Bathrooms, Flooring. Free Est. Mike 469-576-1636

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

lawnS, gardenS & treeS

25.00 OFF - ALL ABOUT TREES, INC

Removals, Pruning, Insured. 972-697-3956

4 SEASONS LAWN & LANDSCAPE

Maintenance, Design, Stonework Call Aaron 214-636-0143

A BETTER TREE COMPANY • JUST TREES

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

A BETTER TREE MAN Trims, Removals, Insd. 10 Yrs Exp. Roberts Tree Service. 214-808-8925

A COMPLETE TREE SERVICE

Call Lakewood Tree Service 214-442-3165

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

ALTON MARTIN LANDSCAPING Spectacular

Curbside Appeal! Excellent refs. 214-893-2420

AYALA’S LANDSCAPING SERVICE

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

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

BILLY JACK SPRINKLER REPAIR & INSTALL

Locate & Repair Leaky Valves, Pipes, Heads. Add Rain Freeze Sensor. 972-303-0007. Li 6099

BLOUNTS TREE SERVICE Fall Tree Service

Special: Receive $25 Off With This Ad. Trimming. Removals. Mistletoe Ivy Removal. Refs Avail. Free Ests. 44 yrs exp. Insured. Grady 214-275-5727

BUSSEYS LAWN CARE

Weekly Service $30 Most Jobs. 214-725-9678

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

CHUPIK TREE SERVICE

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

DALLAS K.D.R.SERVICES • 214-349-0914

Lawn Service & Landscape Installation

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

DAVID’S COMPLETE LAWN CARE And Tree Service. 214-459-7404

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

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

MOW YOUR YARD $27

White Rock Landscaping 214-415-8434

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

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

U R LAWN CARE Maintenance. Landscaping. Your Personal

NEED BOXES? SAVE MONEY SAVE TREES! www.TreeHuggerBoxes.com 214-384-1316

Boxes, supplies. Free tape with $30 purchase!

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A BETTER EARTH PEST CONTROL

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

MOSQUITO SYSTEMS

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McDANIEL PEST CONTROL

Prices Start at $75 +Tax for General Treatment Average Home, Interior, Exterior & Attached Garage Quotes for Other Services

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Sewers • Drains • Bonded *Joe Faz 214-794-7566 - Se Habla Español*

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

BLOUNTS PLUMBING REPAIR Rebuild or Replace. 44 yrs exp. Insured. 214-275-5727

FIXXER PLUMBING #M38904. BBB Accredited. www.fixxercompany.com. Call 214-534-1468.

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THE SUSPECTS TRIED TO SMOKE MARIJUANA IN BURGER KING.

The surveillance video said it all. Gil Buchheit knew exactly who was on the screen at the neighborhood Burger King. And it was a dropped hamburger that led to the arrest in this “Whopper” of a crime spree.

Buchheit’s bit of detective work began on the night of Oct. 5. He came home to find the glass on the back door broken and tools scattered near the entrance of his L Streets neighborhood home.

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“They tried to kick in the back door and couldn’t, so they broke the glass on the door and crawled in,” he says.

Gone was his 56-inch TV, perfect for watching college and pro football on weekends.

“They stole it at a very untimely moment, with the Rangers going to the playoffs,” he says.

And while his TV would not be returned, some sharp eyes and smart thinking would help lead Buchheit and a friend to the actual burglars.

“What led us to them was that they threw a Burger King hamburger down in the yard,” he says. “And one of my friends just happened to be walking down the driveway, and found a Burger King receipt.”

BENEFITS INCLUDE:

The investigation then ramped up. The receipt had the same date as the crime, and Buchheit and his friend drove to the restaurant. The men asked if they could review the day’s security video at the time printed on the receipt. As the video rolled, Buchheit recognized a woman who had worked for him as a housecleaner about a year ago. They also were able to get a description of a man who was with her only a short time before the burglary.

“The manager said he remembered them distinctly because they tried to smoke pot in the dining area,” Buchheit says.

If this is you, please email your resume to Kristy at kgaconnier@advocatemag.com with subject line: resume

$3,165

VALUE OFITEMSSTOLENFROM AVEHICLE PARKEDIN THE 6800 BLOCK OF SHADY BROOK ON NOV. 7

$535

If this is you, please email your resume to Kristy at kgaconnier@advocatemag.com with subject line: resume

VALUE OFELECTRONICSSTOLENFROM A RESIDENT OFAPARTMENTSIN THE 6200 BLOCK OFMELODY ON NOV. 10; IT WAS THESECOND TIME THE UNITHAD BEEN BURGLARIZEDIN THE PASTFOUR MONTHS

The Victim: Gil Buchheit

The Crime: Burglary

Date: Tuesday, Oct. 5

Time: 10:30 a.m.

Location: 8600 block of Lockhaven

Buchheit says he learned that she had not lived at her previous address in more than a year, and that she allegedly began using drugs. He then took all his information to the police, who began to monitor the suspect. His work paid off, and may have prevented further crimes.

“They put her on surveillance, and then arrested her,” he says. “They caught her and some other guys in another burglary.”

The resolution of the events turned out perfectly, Buchheit says, despite the loss of his property.

“I didn’t get my TV back, but getting them caught made my day.”

Dallas Police Lt. Mackie D. Ham of the Northeast Patrol Division applauds Buchheit’s tenacity in the case.

“His detective work was outstanding,” Ham says. “By finding out who this was, our undercover officers worked the case, and viewed the suspects commit another burglary offense. Once arrested, the suspects admitted to six or seven other burglaries. His follow-up allowed detectives to gain the identification of the suspects, and we tracked them for several days until they committed another offense.”

Those who find that their homes have been broken into are advised not to touch or disturb anything until officers arrive and process the scene.

“Very often, we are able to get prints that allow us to file on these individuals,” Ham says.

—SEAN CHAFFIN

VALUE OFELECTRONICSSTOLENFROM ANAPARTMENTIN THE 6100 BLOCK OF PINELAND ON NOV. 5

$700 $2,300

VALUE OFELECTRONICSSTOLENFROM AN APARTMENTIN THE 7200 BLOCK OF FAIR OAKS ON NOV. 8

The absoluTe final 2010 elec Tion rundown

R

: S NOO zE BUTTONS CAN DEFEAT WAKE - UP CALLS

Let me be the last to say — “Wow! What an election!”

The pundits — great and small, obnoxious and insightful, Democrat and Republican, conservative and liberal — have, by now, weighed in on the statement made by voters across the nation Nov. 2. Leaders from both parties have held press conferences and media interviews, and some have even launched national book tours and taken other visible steps on the way to dipping their political toes into the 2012 Presidential Pool.

Over the next several months, it will once again be both fascinating and entertaining to see which prospective candidates end up performing perfect swan dives and jackknives off the high dive, and which ones do belly-flops on the national stage.

Republicans unquestionably scored historic gains in the U.S. House of Representatives, going from meaningless, minority status after Hurricane Obama in 2008 to picking up the most seats and gaining the largest majority in 60 years. Republicans also picked up seats in the U.S. Senate, but the gains were not as historic — Republicans are still in the minority, and Democrat Harry Reid of Nevada was re-elected and will presumably return as Senate Majority Leader.

Tea Party activists and disaffected conservative Republicans have to be wondering now if Republicans will really deliver on the message that was clearly sent by voters, given that they will apparently be led by the same folks who were leading them when they collapsed in 2008. Can old dogs really learn new tricks?

Well, my dog is 13, and he still runs out the

door when it’s opened, if I don’t hold him back. I’m not saying ... I’m just saying.

The biggest surprise, to me at least, was the Republican sweep in the Texas House of Representatives. In 2002, as a result of legislative redistricting in 2001, Republicans finally won a majority in the Texas House for the first time since Reconstruction — and it was a sizable majority of 86-64. Because of that majority, the Texas Legislature was able to successfully tackle a $10 billion budget shortfall without raising taxes and enact sweeping tort reform. Since then, as anti-Bush and anti-Republican sentiment increased, that Republican majority had continued to shrink to 77-73. After 2008, there was reason to wonder if Democrats might actually reclaim a majority in the Texas House in 2010.

Instead of a Democrat majority, however, the Republicans picked up an additional 22 seats, giving them a 99-51 majority in the upcoming legislative session in January. That’s only one vote short of having a two-thirds majority.

Included in that 22-seat pick-up were the two Lake Highlands seats, where Republican challengers Stefani Carter and Kenneth Sheets defeated Democrat incumbents Carol Kent and Allen Vaught. As a result, Lake Highlands — still divided among three Texas House districts will be represented in the upcoming session by Carter, Sheets and longtime incumbent Republican Will Hartnett.

Despite these dramatic swings for Republicans in Washington and Austin, it nevertheless remained the case that Democrats prevailed in every countywide race in Dallas County, including re-electing Craig Watkins as District Attorney, Clay Jenkins as County Judge and every judicial race. Given the strong Republican vote in this election, since not one Republican candidate was able to pull out a victory in a countywide race in Dallas County, the conclusion is inescapable that Democrats have a solid lock on county politics into the immediate future.

So what does all of this mean for Lake Highlands?

Well, it remains to be seen. Based on my first-hand experience and observation, our new state representatives will be tested immediately to see if they are susceptible to being co-opted by senior Republicans, by lobbyists, and by the allure of prime committee assignments and leadership positions.

The legislature will be confronted with a budget shortfall that is predicted to be as high as $20 billion. How will our representatives deal with it? Will they cut spending? Hold the line on taxes? Expand gambling? What principles will guide their decisionmaking? Whose voices will they listen to? Which leaders will they follow?

In addition to the daunting challenge of balancing the state’s budget, they will also be tackling redistricting. Will Lake Highlands remain chopped up and divided among three different state representatives? Or will we finally be drawn into one district and represented by one voice?

Perhaps the most pressing question for us is: Will we continue to participate in the process and hold our representatives accountable? Or will we put our voter registration cards back in the drawer and conveniently forget about all of this until 2012? Effective representative government in the United States, in Texas, in Dallas and in Lake Highlands is not only a contact sport, but it is first and foremost an interactive responsibility, requiring those of us who claim to be in charge as voters to do more than just vote. It requires us to stay informed and hold our elected officials accountable for their actions.

Nobody performs as well as when they know their report card is being watched and graded. Frustration with our elected officials starts with frustration with ourselves for not paying attention. Paying attention pays dividends.

Now that the wake-up call has been delivered, don’t hit the snooze button.

Photo by: Amy Columbus amycolumbusphotography.com