2012 March Preston Hollow

ROAD WARRIORS>

Watch this.

The school library will be featured on Nickelodeon this spring as an example of a grassroots work to improve the library amid budget cuts. Advocate photographer Danny Fulgencio gives us a closer look into the school’s library efforts.

Do you have a story tip or a question?

EMAIL EDITOR EMILY TOMAN etoman@advocatemag.com

CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA advocatemag.com/social

Hot off the runway!

Who says gardening can’t be fashionable? Roses are all the rage in this spring’s hottest colors: Tangerine, coral, hot pink and more. Indulge your inner fashionista with heat-hardy roses to compliment your wardrobe, home decor…even your favorite pair of shoes. If you have a favorite color, we probably have a rose to match!

prestonhollow.advocatemag.com/photos advocatemag.com/newsletter advocatemag.com/apps

‘Rio Samba’

‘Easy Does It’ ‘Dick Clark’

FIELDS OF DREAMS

Spring Training fever hits me this time every year

Talking about loving baseball with someone who doesn’t is like telling a Victoria’s Secret model you love her — both will look at you as if you’re an idiot, and you’ll probably be slapped by at least one.

But my inability to present the idea properly doesn’t change the sentiment: There’s just something about baseball that gets to me, particularly these days when Spring Training is underway.

Maybe you know that before ballplayers start their major league season in April, they spend 45 days in Florida or Arizona working to get in shape. But if you’ve ever been to Spring Training, you know the truth: It’s a distant cousin to the “work” most of us do every day, since the real beauty of baseball is that it unfolds slowly and on no particular timetable.

If the weather cooperates, the Spring Training sun is bright and the grass is green at the multitude of ballparks dotting the metropolitan area. It’s a rare spring day you can’t catch a couple of games, and on a good day you can probably watch three, starting around lunch, winding through the afternoon and ending up after dinner.

For a business in which everyone is rich (even the least of the bunch commands about a million dollars annually, while the best earns more than $20 million a year), they’re all accessible in Spring Training — the high-dollar guys and the youngsters just starting out — an arm’s length or two away, squinting into the sun while, generally good-naturedly, signing the bats and caps and programs thrust their way.

They’re just kids, most of them, and some look downright goofy up close, with

the “Dutch Oven” (aka Texas Ranger Derek Holland) leading the laugh train with his unruly hair and dopey mustache. He could be me, way back when, sans the baseball talent and bank account, of course.

In the spring, the possibilities for the upcoming season seem so bright, much as they were so many years ago for all of us. Anything can happen during a baseball season, and even though baseball mirrors life in that the thoroughbreds generally wind up crossing the finish line first, from time to time a longshot unexpectedly makes a run for it and surprises even the most seasoned observers.

As my wife is loathe to admit, I’d watch a baseball game every day if I could. To her credit, she gamely tried to catch “the fever” over the years, but it hasn’t worked

Someday, maybe I’ll find a job that pays most of the bills and lets me daily sit in the stands or, in my dreams, on the field or in the dugout or in the bullpen.

out. She sees it as a kind of sickness, I think, although she doesn’t describe it as such to others; after all, she has her own image to protect, too.

Someday, maybe I’ll find a job that pays most of the bills and lets me daily sit in the stands or, in my dreams, on the field or in the dugout or in the bullpen.

I know that probably won’t happen. But I can’t help thinking about it every spring before the season starts and before the games begin and before reality regains the upper hand, pulling me back home from Spring Training and making me hope for another go-round next year.

DISTRIBUTION PH/214.560.4203

ADVERTISING PH/214.560.4203

office administrator: JUDY LILES

214.560.4203 / jliles@advocatemag.com

advertising sales director: KRISTY GACONNIER

214.560.4213 / kgaconnier@advocatemag.com

display sales manager: BRIAN BEAVERS

214.560.4201 / bbeavers@advocatemag.com

senior advertising consultant: AMY DURANT

214.560.4205 / adurant@advocatemag.com

advertising consultants

CATHERINE PATE

214.292.0494 / cpate@advocatemag.com

NORA JONES

214.292.0962 / njones@advocatemag.com

PATTI MILLER

214.292.0961 / pmiller@advocatemag.com

JENNIfER THOMAS VOSS

214.635.2122 / jvoss@advocatemag.com

fRANK McCLENDON

214.560.4215 / fmcclendon@advocatemag.com

JESSICA JENKINS

214.292.0485 / jjenkins@advocatemag.com

classified manager: PRIO BERGER

214.560.4211 / pberger@advocatemag.com

classified consultant

SALLY ACKERMAN

214.560.4202 / sackerman@advocatemag.com

marketing director: MEGHAN RINEY

214.292.0486 / mriney@advocatemag.com

EDITORIAL PH/ 214.292.2053

publisher: RICK WAMRE

214.560.4212 / rwamre@advocatemag.com

managing editor: CHRISTINA HUGHES BABB

214.560.4204 / chughes@advocatemag.com

senior editor: KERI MITCHELL

214.292.0487 / kmitchell@advocatemag.com

editors

EMILY TOMAN

214.292.2053 / etoman@advocatemag.com

RACHEL STONE

214.292.0490 / rstone@advocatemag.com

web director: CHRISTY ROBINSON

214.635.2120 / crobinson@advocatemag.com

senior art director: JYNNETTE NEAL

214.560.4206 / jneal@advocatemag.com

art director: JULIANNE RICE

214.292.0493 / jrice@advocatemag.com

designers: JEANINE MICHNA-BALES, LARRY OLIVER,

contributing editors: JEff SIEGEL, SALLY WAMRE

contributors: SEAN CHAffIN, BILL KEffER, GAYLA KOKEL, GEORGE MASON, BLAIR MONIE, ELLEN RAff, MEGHAN RINEY

photo editor: CAN TüRKYILMAZ

214.560.4200 / cturkyilmaz@advocatemag.com

photographers: MARK DAVIS, DANNY fULGENCIO

Q&A: James Henley & Betty Nugent

Preston hollow resident James Henley and his sister Betty Nugent, affectionately known as Bettyann and Jimbo, have been running Junkadoodle on Lovers Lane for the past 15 years, and their biannual flea market is coming up this month. The business started as henley’s ballroom dance studio and was gradually taken over by Nugent’s weird, funky finds — from vintage cameras repurposed as lamps to a crystal chandelier embellished with doll heads. But every so often after closing time, henley clears out a small corner space to teach a clueless couple how to dance.

How did you start this place?

JH: I had a dance studio called Dance Time at Lovers and the Tollway for just over 11 years. I saw this corner. A guy was selling this little house, so I bought it. I started teaching ballroom dance, and Bettyann asked if she could sell some of her stuff in the studio. Then I thought it would just be easier to turn this into a store.

BN: When we opened, we were the only place around here. Nobody ever came this far down Lovers. So, to get people down here, we started doing a flea market in the parking lot. We’ve been doing it twice a year ever since. We have all types of vendors — from antique dealers to people who just have stuff they want to get rid of and would rather come here than have a garage sale. We have kids who sell their own handmade jewelry. For entertainment one year, we had an Elvis impersonator out front. But there were too many wrecks [on Lovers]. People were rear-ending each other. We had to stop that.

Can Türkyilmaz

You still teach dance lessons in here?

JH: Yes, mostly weddings. Brides and grooms, fathers and daughters who just want to learn one song. They usually call me up and describe their piece of music as a waltz or a foxtrot or whatever. They’re never right. It’s interesting to me. You used to have standards like the cha cha or the rumba, and now they’re being put to modern songs like on “Dancing with the Stars.” I think it’s great. That’s what I’ve always liked anyway.

How did you get into the ballroom dancing business?

JH: I was looking in the paper, and an ad said, ‘Sleep until noon, travel around the world, and make a lot of money — apply Fred Astaire Dance Studio.’ I got a lot of training really quick. I worked there for a year and then moved to Dallas to work with the big boys. When I came to Dallas, Preston Center had five dance studios in that one little square.

Bettyann, where do you find your store merchandise?

BN: Florida, Canada, Connecticut, Austin, Corpus, Port Aransas, San Antonio Wherever I’m traveling, I’m buying.

What are you looking for?

BN: Just whatever catches my eye. It’s a collection of the unusual. I like funny, funky stuff. It doesn’t matter how old it is or how much money it’s worth. I don’t care about any of that. If I like it, I buy it. I found these lamps made out of old, vintage cameras from a guy in Austin, who just happened to be passing through visiting his daughter. If people are looking for fine silver, I’ll send them down the street. I think we all [antique shops] on this strip support each other.

What inspired you to go junking?

BN: It was just something I wanted to do. I had always helped people fix up their homes. I thought it would be fun to do.

Does your house look a lot like this store?

BN: Exactly. —Emily Toman

Junkadoodle’s bi-annual flea market is 9 a.m.-6 p.m. March 31 in front of the shop, 4402 W. Lovers. For more information, call 214.350.5755 or visit junkadoodle.com.

american apparel

angelika film center index skateboard supply

michael raymond salon

movida

the people’s last stand

the pretty kitty

rockfish

starbucks

sunglass hut trinity hall urban outfitters

HOW IT WORKS

Tackling city-related maintenance issues in our neighborhoods

GOTA QUESTION? Email launch@advocatemag.com.

repairing brick walls

You see them all over Preston Hollow — once pristine brick walls turned into rubble by crashing cars. The city maintenance crews usually will come to clear out the debris, leaving a gaping hole between noisy, arterial streets and quiet, residential neighborhoods.

Q: How can we get the city to repair our brick walls?

A: The city won’t. It’s the homeowners’ responsibility.

These walls sit on private property behind residential homes. If the city opened up funding for the repairs, it would have to do so in any other similar situation that occurs on private property. City officials just aren’t willing to risk it. Homeowners must fix the walls themselves, which is easier said than done, considering that most associations are voluntary. The repair can cost several thousand dollars, and with about 20-30 percent homeowner participation, it’s hard to raise that kind of money. A less expensive option is to replace the brick with wrought-iron posts and shrubbery.

Here at Walnut Hill our tradition of family continues as we announce the hiring of Dr. Jennifer Muller . Jennifer’s mom Evelyn Scott, RN is our nurse manager and has been employed at Walnut Hill for 23 years. Dr. Muller will open her schedule for appointments in June 2012.

—Emily Toman

Jeffrey M. Thurston, M.D David M. Bookout, M.D. Julie M. Hagood, M.D. James K. Richards, M.D. Jennifer Muller, M.D. John D. Bertrand, M.D. Jane E. Nokleberg, M.D. Hampton B. Richards, M.D.

Preston Hollow Park

as told to Keri Mitchell by Sally rodriguez, Dallas Park and recreation Department’s historian. all photos are courtesy of the Dallas Municipal archives and curated by rodriguez. She authored the book “White rock Lake,” available at area bookstores and through arcadiapublishing.com.

1949

1954

<< In the background, looking south, is the Northwest Highway Drive-In that was at the corner of Northwest Highway and Hillcrest from 1941-1963. The new street on the right side is Edgemere. See that there are no trees?

1966

<< A short five years later, the neighborhood around the park has been developed. The new tennis courts, pool and playground are visible as well as the newly planted trees.

<< The trees in the park as well as the neighborhood have grown substantially in the last 12 years, and a new picnic pavilion has been added to the park.

Read moRe about Sally Rodriguez and her aerial photo findings that tell the stories of how neighborhoods develop. Visit prestonhollow. advocatemag.com and search: Rodriguez.

Edgemere

Thackery

Turtle Creek

Turtle Creek

Out & About

March 2012

March 24 ArtsPark

The third annual ArtsPark, presented by the Business Council for the Arts and NorthPark Center, showcases arts and cultural organizations from across North Texas. Highlighted by live performances and demonstrations, this event gives area residents the opportunity to learn more about getting involved in the arts.

NorthPark Center, 8687 N. Central, northparkcenter.com, free

more local events or submit your own

PRESTONHOLLOW.ADVOCATEMAG.COM/EVENTS

THROUGH MARCH 3

The Music Man

Featuring the J Players, “The Music Man” is an upbeat tale about life in Iowa in 1912. When a music-loving stranger comes to town, daily routines in River City begin to change.

Jewish Community Center of Dallas, 7900 Northaven, 214.239.7115, jccdallas.org, $12-$25

MARCH 10–APRIL 7

Thomas Evans: Landscapes & Jerry

Skibell: Different Points of Contact

Norwood Flynn Gallery welcomes two new artists this month: native Texans Thomas Evans and Jerry Skibell. Both artists create landscapes, but their points of view vary greatly. Enjoy an artists’ reception 6-8 p.m. March 10.

Norwood Flynn Gallery, 3318 Shorecrest, 214.351.3318, norwoodflynngallery.com, free

MARCH 14

Storytime at Bookmarks

Atmos Energy presents a reading of “Where the Wild Things Are” at 10:30 a.m. The event features interpretive dance and wolf costumes.

Bookmarks Library at NorthPark Center, 8687 N. Central, 214.671.1381, free

MARCH 16

Zoe Lewis

With The Wahooligans opening, Uncle Calvin’s Coffeehouse welcomes multitalented singer/songwriter Zoe Lewis to the stage. Lewis’ sound transitions from jazzy to Latin, from swing to folk.

NorthPark Presbyterian Church, 9555 N. Central, 214.363.0044, unclecalvins.org, $8-$15

Through May 13

The Invention of Glory: Alfonso V and the Pastrana

Tapestries

The Meadows Museum offers visitors the chance to see four 15th century tapestries. The Pastrana tapestries were created in Belgium and have been preserved in Guadalajara since the 17th century. Meadows Museum, 5900 Bishop, 214.768.2516, smu.edu/meadowsmuseum, $8–$10

MARCH 17

Backyard Chickens 101

A growing trend in North Texas, raising backyard chickens can be a great way to get access to healthier eggs. Dan Probst of Bageniece Farms will explain the basics. The class begins at 10 a.m. Northaven Gardens, 7700 Northaven, 214.363.5316, nhg.com, free

MARCH 22–24

2012 Literary Festival

This three-day festival hosted by the SMU Department of English highlights some of the greatest authors in the country. This year’s lineup includes Corey Marks, editor of “American Literary Review,” Tyehimba Jess of “Black Issues Book Review” and Dean Bakopoulos of “O, The Oprah Magazine.”

Southern Methodist University, 6425 Boaz, 214.768.2000, smu.edu, free

MARCH 24

No Tie Dinner & Dessert

The No Tie Dinner & Dessert is a night of dancing, desserts and drinks, all in the name of helping those with AIDS. Guests also enjoy a silent and live auction, and all proceeds benefit AIDS Services of Dallas. The party begins at 8 p.m.

The Frontiers of Flight Museum, 6911 Lemmon, notiedinner.org, $50

MARCH 31

It’s My Park Day

From 8 a.m.–noon, the Dallas Park and Recreation Department invites residents to join together at local parks for a day of beautification. Here’s how it works: Choose your project, register as a volunteer by calling the parks department and get ready to work. The deadline to register is March 19. Volunteers will be clearing litter and debris, removing graffiti, weeding, mulching and planting, and cleaning up creeks and shorelines. 214.670.8400, itsmyparkdaydallas.eventbrite.com, free

Delicious

burgErs

Look

—Emily Toman

around any corner in Preston Hollow, and you’ll find some type of burger joint. Mariel Street set out to do something different. “It’s kind of reinventing the burger,” she says. Her new venture, Liberty Burger, offers variations on the staple not found anywhere else in Dallas. The “amore” burger comes piled with baby spinach, cantaloupe and a crisp layer of Parmesan cheese. It’s the most adventurous item on the menu, and not enough people order it, Street says. “It’s the perfect blend of salty and sweet.” Besides great taste, there’s a lot of heart behind Liberty. Street began working on the concept after serving two years in the Peace Corps. She applied the principles of social responsibility to her business. The all-natural beef comes from a Dallas purveyor, vegetables are grown in Texas whenever possible, and buns are baked fresh every morning. Almost everything in the restaurant has been recycled — from the paper napkins to the wooden beams. Street, daughter of Dallas restaurateur Gene Street, has been working in the industry since age 14. Her father tried to talk her out of opening her own place. “I would rather work 365 days out of the year than be bored for one year.”

LIBERTY BURGER

5211 Forest

972.239.2100

givemelibertyburger.com

PRICERANGE:

$6.50-$9.50

AMBIANCE: CLEAN

HOURS:

11A.M.-9P.M. MON-SAT CLOSEDSUN

TIP: YOU CANMAKEANY BURGERA BISON BURGER, WHICH IS 90 PERCENT LEANERTHAN BEEF OR CHICKEN.

1 Elevation Burger

ThisHillcrestCrossing establishment uses 100 percent grass-fed, free-range beef with USDA-certified organic ingredients for a healthier version of your typical, greasy burger. 8611 Hillcrest, Suite 195, 214.360.0088, elevationburger.com

2 Gazebo Burgers

Neighbors will testify that this burger spot easily beats out any of the over-hyped chains. Plus, they do a great veggie burger for the herbivores out there. 5950Royal, 214.368.3344, gazeeboburgers.com

3 Chip’s Old Fashioned Hamburgers

For a traditional, no-frills burger, 30-year-old Chip’s doesn’t disappoint. The restaurant also offers glutenfree buns. 4530 Lovers, 214.691.2447, chips-burgers.com

Left: Napa burger; Right: Amore burger. Photos by Mark Davis

wine 102

Duchman Family vermentino ($12) Texas

Wine drinkers are creatures of habit. We tend to drink the same wines and shop in the same places for those wines, which, frankly, doesn’t do much to expand our wine horizons. This is an especial problem for beginning wine drinkers, whose lack of experience is compounded by the intimidation factor — wine can be a scary thing for newcomers, who are overwhelmed with labels, names, terms and the like.

So, four easy things anyone can do to boost their wine savvy:

One of the things that people always laugh at when I talk about wine is the idea that they can learn more by drinking more. For example, if you like pinot noir, why not try a different kind than what you usually drink? One choice is the Mandolin pinot (about $12), which has less fruit than similarly priced wines, but a little more earthiness.

It’s amazing how this will change your perspective, especially if you buy wine only in grocery stores. Wine retailers are more likely to carry something such as the red and white from France’s Chateau Bonnet (about $10) solid, dependable and tasty wines that don’t have cute labels or marketing budgets.

And even those you don’t. No one, including the so-called experts, remembers the name of every wine they drink. That way, the next time you shop for wine, you know what to look for, and avoid. You don’t have to do it often. But every once in a while, if you don’t like sweet wine or red wine or whatever, taste one. Given that your palate will change over time as you gain more experience, there’s also a chance you’ll appreciate wine you didn’t like before. Regional wine fits here: Texas’ Duchman Family Winery vermentino (about $12). It’s a white wine that is bright and fresh, with some lemon-lime fruit.

JEFF SIEGEL’S WEEKLY WINE REVIEWS appear in our Eat Local dining newsletter. Sign up at advocatemag.com/newsletter.

Ask the wine guy

—Jeff Siegel

I liked a wine a lot, but when I went back to the store to buy more, there wasn’t any. Why is that?

ause wine, unlike other consumer ds, isn’t always replaceable. You can ays make another bottle of ketchup, but e a wine is gone, it’s gone. This isn’t lly a problem with most grocery store es, but it can be for wine that is sold tly in wine retailers.

ASK THE WINE GUY taste@advocatemag.com

Jeff Siegel

with your wine

Oven ‘grilled’ country-style ribs

Ribs have an air of mystery around them: They look weird, and they seem like they should be difficult to cook. And countrystyle ribs, which have less bone and are shaped differently, seem even more confusing. But they’re actually quite straightforward; serve with red wine like the Bonnet or the Mandolin.

GROCERY LIST

2-3 lbs country-style ribs

1 Tbsp spice rub for pork

DIRECTIONS

1 to 1 1/2 c best quality barbecue sauce salt and pepper to taste

1. Rub the ribs with the spice rub and let marinate for at least an hour. Overnight is best.

2. Salt and pepper the ribs, and put in a roasting pan in a preheated 375-degree oven for 30 minutes. Turn several times, and carefully drain the fat and liquid that accumulates in the bottom of the pan.

3. Preheat a broiler while the ribs are in the oven. Baste the ribs with the barbecue sauce and cook for 5 or 10 minutes per side, turning two or three times and basting when you turn. Watch carefully so the sauce doesn’t burn (which sauces with a lot of sugar will do more easily). After the oven, finish ribs in the broiler.

4. Serve with more sauce on the side. Serves four, takes about an hour

Preston Hollow resident Waco Moore rides his “grandpa bike” in traffic during rush hour on Northwest Highway. To most cyclists, this type of commute is unpleasant and even terrifying. To Moore, it’s mundane.

share the road

story By emily toman

photos By Can türkyilmaz and danny FulgenCio

It’s evening rush hour in Preston h ollow. On royal Lane, 4,000-pound cars whiz by ready to devour any piece of two-wheeled aluminum that gets in their way.

Emerging from the quiet hillcrest Forest neighborhood, Waco Moore pedals up to the mouth of the beast and waits for his opportunity.

after several seconds, the cars thin out to reveal an open road. he takes a lane, rides almost all the way to the left and breezily makes his way to the coffee shop at Preston royal Village. c ars approach from behind, slow down and pass.

Moore, a neighborhood resident and c yclingSavvy DFW instructor, is among a handful of expert riders who integrate themselves with traffic, sharing the road harmoniously with cars.

Before we become a bike-savvy city, we have a lot to learn

Richard Wharton runs the Cycling Center of Dallas at the JCC and is a vocal critic of the Bike Plan.

Still, the Alliance for Biking and Walking recently ranked Dallas 49th out of the country’s 51 largest cities for its number of residents who commute to work by bike— a measly 0.1 percent. It placed 47th for the 1.8 percent who walk. The 2011 Dallas Bike Plan aims to change that, constructing more than 1,000 miles of bicycle facilities over the next 10 years.

The city’s ambitious strategy to get more butts on bikes isn’t just about safety, fitness and clean air. City officials say it’s about bringing neighborhoods closer together: The day may come when we can walk outside and see people and faces instead of just cars and buildings.

ON ANY GIVEN DAY, neighbors often end their commutes by driving down a narrow alley, pulling into their garages and heading inside their homes, rarely stopping to look out the front door. That’s how much of Preston Hollow’s infrastructure was

originally designed.

“I think we need to erode that fortress mentality. Bike lanes and bike trails do some of that,” says Lee Kleinman, North Dallas’ District 11 Park Board member who also sat on the steering committee for the Bike Plan.

“I think people are frustrated in this urban sprawl that we live in — that you have to get in a car to go to the grocery store. People are starting to look closer in, more local.”

The city council in June unanimously approved the Bike Plan, which in the long term

includes 840 miles of on-street bike facilities and 460 off-street facilities designed to make less-experienced cyclists feel more comfortable riding in traffic. Right now, 75 percent of cyclists in the city ride recreationally, sticking to the trails.

As car-centric as Dallas might seem, the city is well-suited for bikes, says city bike coordinator Max Kalhammer, who moved here in 2009 from Washington, D.C.

“Dallas has the advantage of having built a lot of roadway — 7,000 miles of roads, lots of capacity,” Kalhammer says. “We want to take advantage of that past investment of our roadways.”

Rather than copying bike-friendly pioneers such as New York City and Portland, Dallas can do it better, Kalhammer says.

“We have the advantage of going last, so we can learn from the mistakes of everybody else. If you go to Portland or Boston or New York City there’s a tremendous variation in the quality of their facilities and the consistency of them.

“So we’re looking to do it right and maintain a standard width for bicycle lanes, for example, and to know we can maintain these facilities.”

It’s not as if Dallas is just now trying to accommodate cyclists in the transportation network. The first bikeway plan came in 1975, calling for bike facilities to be part of new construction, both residential and commercial. In 1985, the city revised the plan, identifying more bike routes on lowvolume streets. They are marked by blue Pegasus signs with numbers indicating north, south, east and west.

The city’s traffic patterns have changed quite a bit during the past 25 years.

“A lot of those routes had grown out of date because of the way traffic volumes have changed along certain streets in the city,” Kalhammer says.

“A lot of these routes could be intimidating to a lot of interested-but-cautious bicycle riders. I don’t blame anyone for not wanting to use the routes that are marked now. When you introduce [bike lanes] even with the perception of safety, then ridership will go up. When ridership goes up, safety typically increases.”

Much of the plan is still being hammered out, but early implementation projects include a North Central route that would connect near NorthPark Center and

Dr. Colter specializes in comprehensive dental care for infants, children, teens and children with special needs.

“ We recognize every child is unique and we strive to make sure his or her dental visit feels like it’s tailored just for them.”

Dr. Colter and her staff want children and their parents to feel comfortable about their visit to the dentist in the warm, caring and inviting office of All About Kids Dentistry.

J Diane Colter, DDS

Ride like the pRos

Cycling Savvy DFW offers a threepart course at Northway Church, teaching the principles of riding in traffic. It begins with a classroom discussion followed by bicycle training in the parking lot. Finally, cyclists put their skills to the test on a tour of the city.

The program started in Orlando, and the curriculum comes from the Florida Bicycle Association. Instructors Richard Wharton, Waco Moore and Eliot Landrum show students how to cycle safely on any road in Dallas without using sidewalks or hugging the right curb. “You lead the dance,” Wharton says. “A driver is a driver whether it’s on two wheels or four.”

The next programs are March 2-3 and April 27-28. The cost is $75. For more information, visit cyclingsavvy.org and click on the Dallas chapter.

to the Northaven Trail, which finishes its first phase of construction this month.

Kleinman says bike facilities could help slow down traffic in key areas of the neighborhood. Riding down Boedecker behind the mall can be treacherous for cyclists since cars often use that street for shortcuts, speeding and turning the un-striped, twolane road into a four-lane thoroughfare.

“I think that drivers will adapt,” Kleinman says. “Most are reasonable. Drivers will start recognizing bikes on the road and that they’re vehicles.”

But a vocal minority of cyclists believes creating a bike-friendly city can come from education and less drastic improvements to the existing infrastructure.

Moore is like Bigfoot. Even if you

catch a glimpse of him cycling down Preston in rush-hour traffic, no one would believe you.

“I’m just a guy that rides a bike,” he says. “It’s not about speed. It’s about being predictable. I get honked at maybe three times a year. It’s really uneventful and really pleasant.”

Every day, Moore travels from his home in the Hockaday neighborhood to work Downtown.

He follows the same general rules as cars but doesn’t prefer the label “vehicular cyclist.” He says it carries a negative tone, divides bicycle riders as being for or against bike lanes and ignores an important gray area.

“The city is focused on planning, and the main focus is on transportation and infrastructure and to rebuild more functional

neighborhoods. I agree with about 99 percent of that. The issue is the way in which they view cyclists.”

He says that a bike-lane separation downgrades a cyclist to simply a pedestrian on wheels.

“They are much more a vehicle.”

Moore served on the bicycle advisory committee, a group of 21 citizens with interest and expertise who provided input on the new Bike Plan as it was being drafted. He supported a more conservative approach, incorporating shared lane markings, updated signage and education, which could help motorists understand that cyclists do belong on the road. Moore suggests decreasing speed limits and enforcing them instead of relying on the possible traffic-slowing effect of bike lanes.

Park board member Lee Kleinman says the Bike Plan is a necessary expense to increase our neighborhood’s quality of life.

NORTHAVENTRAIL UPDATE

Neighbors started using the Northaven Trail as soon as the concrete dried, and phase one wraps up this month, stretching west from Valleydale near the Jewish Community Center to Preston just north of Royal.

La Terra Studio designed the 12-foot-wide hike and bike trail, which is stocked with amenities such as bike racks, solar-powered trash compactors, mile markers, a water bottle filling station and a bike repair station.

The $2.6 million project is part of a master plan, extending to Denton Drive with a connection to Irving’s Campion Trail on the west.

The next phase aims to link the Northaven Trail to the White Rock Creek Trail, for which Dallas County has committed $2.5 million in matching funds. The connection is being dubbed the “Low Five” in contrast to North Dallas’ High Five freeway connector because it will provide five trail directions for walkers and cyclists. They can go north or south on the White Rock Creek Trail, north on the Cottonwood Trail, south on the Veloway Trail or west on the Northaven Trail.

It’s all in the planning phase right now, but construction is scheduled to begin in 2013.

“If every one of these streets was clearly marked with good wayfinding signs, and there was actual enforcement, Dallas would be the most bike-friendly city in America.”

He says segregated lanes can work in some areas such as the Jefferson Viaduct, where Dallas Torres of Oak Cliff was seriously injured after a car hit him from behind.

“Bridges are some of the best places for bike lanes because there are no intersections,” Moore says. “Use segregated facilities like bike lanes and buffered bike lanes where they provide the greatest benefits and the least added risk.”

While Moore views himself as moderate on the issue, Richard Wharton, who runs the Cycling Center of Dallas at the Jewish Community Center, brings more heat to bike-friendly groups, outlining all of the ways in which segregated lanes don’t work and even pose dangers.

For example, he says, a hazard appears at stoplights when a motorist wants to turn right while a cyclist is approaching in the bike lane. That could result in a collision.

“It makes intersections much more complicated,” Wharton says. “What we believe is that with more attention paid to the education of cyclists, we can further enhance safety and livability today. Cyclists are sold

—Emily Toman

a bike and sent out the door. You might get a pamphlet or something.

“I’m not against the Bike Plan. I’m against the placement of education at the bottom of the list. It’s cheap, it’s efficient and it’s quick.”

Despite their efforts to encourage all cyclists to rise to the same skill level through programs such as Cycling Savvy, vehicular cyclists are sorely outnumbered when it comes to creating a more bike-friendly Dallas. City planners believe their philosophy is just too idealistic.

“This may sound strange, but I admire what [vehicular cyclists] do,” Kalhammer says. “I admire how many riders they’ve converted [from car to bike], and they’ve got a lot to offer. I just want them to understand that their way of riding is not for everyone. We’re never going to have a significant number of riders using bikes for work or recreation if we don’t provide these other types of facilities.”

Kalhammer says that even the perceived safety of bike lanes can change behavior. Moore fears that this approach will come at a high cost in both dollars and lives.

“It’s all too easy and common to confuse the means with the end,” he says. “I would love to ride in a Netherlands-style environ-

Meet us at the State Fair of Texas in 2012 for an amazing Girl Scout Centennial Exhibition at the Hall of State!

For more information visit: www.gsnetx.org

Girl Scouts, the premiere leadership organization for girls and the largest pipeline for female leadership in the world, is celebrating 100 years of Girl Scouting in 2012!

ment. Nobody wants to mix in with cars and trucks, but that’s the reality of Dallas.”

Now, the city faces the reality of a sparse bond program in November and a bestcase-scenario budget deficit of $50 million. The Bike Plan itself might be just as idealistic as the mantra of vehicular cyclists.

Eight months ago, the city council approved the grandiose plan to transform our auto-centric neighborhoods into communal spaces for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. After the vote, what more clearly emerged was the $16 million price tag to be paid out over 10 years, implementing $1.6$1.8 million worth of on-street bike facilities per year.

“I think much of the council was surprised by that,” says North Dallas council member Linda Koop, who was an early supporter of updating the bikeway system. She and East Dallas council member Angela Hunt traveled to Portland about four years ago to study the network. They met with the bike coordinator there to learn strategies they could implement in Dallas.

Those dreams received a dose of reality after a Street Services briefing in December, which revealed that in addition to the original expense, maintenance for the completed system would cost up to $3.2 million annually. That raises questions about priorities since the city already struggles to maintain roads, sidewalks and alleys.

One possible solution is to bundle city services to cut costs. When crews re-stripe a road, they add a bike lane while they’re at it.

“We’re still hopeful we’ll get some early wind through the bond program,” Koop adds.

Despite the council’s surprise, the cost for striping and signage is pretty typical of other cities’ successful on-street bike facilities.

“That’s a big difference between what we have today and what could be in the future,” Kalhammer says.

The city’s Sustainable Development and Construction office is seeking grants, including one that would pay for a fundraising position to help raise money in the private sector. Advocacy groups also are

Bill Bryan commutes daily by bike from his home near Flag Pole Hill to his job at Southern Methodist University.

ROAD RULES

SAFETY

ETIQUETTE FOR CYCLISTS

ETIQUETTE FOR MOTORISTS

Sources:

PRESENTS

‘It’s A Work of Art’

MARCH 3 - APRIL 8

Enjoy over 500,000 spring blooming bulbs. Featuring Small Houses of Great Artists Exhibit, Mar. 3 - Dec. 31, and Artscape, a fine art show and sale in the garden, Mar. 16 - 18. Discount tickets available at Tom Thumb stores.

trying to raise their own money to get the plan moving.

“The funding for the infrastructure is the biggest obstacle,” Kalhammer says.

For now, cyclists will have to make the best of what they have.

friendly as they might be.

“I go in knowing each day that at least one driver will make a mistake, or take a shot at me. I have used all of my voice at times.”

“It does require a cultural change with neighbors and neighborhoods,” Kleinman says. “People definitely love their cars in Preston Hollow.”

FREE LESSONS

BILLBRYAN LOOKS LIKE A JOLLY ENGLISHMAN, three days a week, riding his vintage 1972 Raleigh bicycle from his home to work at Southern Methodist University, where he serves as the director of the intern program and professional formation at the Perkins School of Theology.

Richardson Bike Mart offers free bicycling safety workshops. Visit bikemart.com.

“Drivers seem to give you a wider berth when you are riding in a blue blazer,” he says.

At 60 years old, Bryan is an easy-going, Zen-like cyclist. He’s not trying to save the planet. He just enjoys the elements, as un-

He always wears a helmet, takes less populated roads and respects motorists, allowing them to pass when possible.

“If I have to get on a busy street, I sometimes swallow my pride and use the sidewalk.”

During harsh weather, he takes advantage of transit opportunities such as the DART trains, which now have bicycle storage.

Commuting by bike is also a personal decision for Bryan, son of Dallas barbecue entrepreneur Sonny Bryan, who cycled hundreds of miles around Oak Cliff while battling cancer. The routine improved his quality of life before he died in 1989.

“Doctors marveled at how strong his heart and lungs were.”

In that spirit, Bryan continues to cruise on two wheels, hoping for a better system in the Bike Plan some day.

Kleinman, a recreational cyclist, rides in tandem with his wife around Dallas, training for cross-country road trips in which they explore other cities by bike — from the Texas Hill Country to Paris streetscapes.

The cultural change doesn’t necessarily mean people should try to commute 20 miles to work every day. But they could bike to the grocery store or to dinner at a nearby restaurant.

“Everything within a 3-mile radius, any casual cyclist can bike to within 20 minutes at the most,” Kleinman says. “Dallas is very big. In order to make a more livable city, we have to break it down into smaller components. That’s the only way to cope with a city this size.

“I don’t think we’re going to live in a Danish utopia where 40 percent or so of the population goes everywhere on their bike … but I don’t think it takes a lot of bikes to make a difference.”

OPTOMETRIST

DR. CLINT MEYER

www.dallaseyeworks.com

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

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

COMPREHENSIVE DENTISTRY

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

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

9669 N.Central Expwy., Ste. 220 Dallas, TX 75231 214.696.9966

BACK PAIN SPECIALIST

DR. YARON LOHR medicalchiropracticclinic.com

80% OF AMERICANS SUFFER FROM BACK PAIN. Meet Yaron Lohr, D.C. – new to the neighborhood and able to help with a variety of your back ailments. The Posture Perfect multidisciplinary practice includes medical care, pain management, diagnostic testing, chiropractic care, physiotherapy, and reha- bilitation. Services range from massage therapy, weight loss and personal training to minimally invasive surgeries. Call and mention this ad to set up your FREE health evaluation!

Posture Perfect Health Center 5550 LBJ Fwy., Ste. 150, Dallas, TX 75240 972.792.0204

ORTHODONTICS

PATRICIA A. SIMON, DDS

www.lakewoodortho.net

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

Lakewood Orthodontics

1809 Skillman St. Dallas, TX 75206 214.826.9000

THE HOSPITALITY SWEET

Catering custom homemade sweets & savories to friends, family and businesses. Let us create your perfect event! Kristen Scott and Meghan Adams 214.534.2241 thehospitalitysweet.com

LA MARIPOSA IMPORTS

Come discover our one of a kind clothing, jewelry and folk art. New shipments arriving weekly! 2813 N. Henderson Ave. 214.826.0069 lamariposaimports.com

GLASSHOUSE

Pictured: Fireplace back with carved design on copper metallic painted glass. Find unique art glass for your decor - showers, mirrors and special projects. Showroom: 919 Dragon St. 214.761.1100 glasshouseproducts.com

MATTHEW TRENT JEWELRY

Forty inch link necklace in hammered 22 karat gold. Plaza at Preston Center 214.871.9170 MatthewTrent.com

NORTH DALLAS ANTIQUE MALL

12,500 sq. ft. of great shopping for antiques, collectibles, vintage,furniture, décor, retro, art, glass,fashion, jewelry, garden and more. 11722 Marsh Lane @ Forest Lane 214.366.2100 northdallasantiquemall.com

A TINY HINEY BABY BOUTIQUE

Now Open! SW corner of Preston/Forest. New designer apparel for 0-6x girls, 0-4T boys, shoes, accessories Rd. 214.818.2000

PAINTING WITH A TWIST

Express your inner artist! Instructors lead attendees in creating paintings with a featured piece of art, bring nothing more than your imagination,wine or beverage. Perfect for Private Parties as well. 5202 Lovers Lane 214.350.9911 paintingwithatwist.com

ONCE UPON A CHILD

March into Spring Savings. We buy & sell clothes (0-18 youth) with experience – plus toys and equipment. 6300 Skillman St. #105 Dallas, TX 75231 214.503.6010 onceuponachildlakehighlands.com

ADVOCATE ORNAMENT

The Advocate Foundation’s limited-edition, numbered, and hand-painted ornament; perfect gift for the new home owner or Dallas transplant. Sales benefit neighborhood organizations. 214.292.0486 foundation.advocatemag.com

Turning the page

How Marsh Middle School students took back their library

Story by Emily Toman | Photos by Danny Fulgencio

By 8:15 each morning, students swarm the Marsh Middle School library, leaving almost no empty seats. The buzz of activity turns the room into more of a playground for reading. And, yes, socializing.

“This is not your mama’s library,” librarian Mary Virginia Meeks says. “We don’t believe in shushing.”

In the past few years, amid state and local budget cuts, Dallas ISD sliced library funding by about 20 percent. Still, in fall 2010, the Marsh library received a muchneeded renovation through a grassroots fundraising effort that put the students to work. Over Thanksgiving break, 40 students worked two-hour shifts, cleaning, painting and re-organizing. In return, the school waived any outstanding fines.

In April, Meeks held a read-a-thon during which students camped out in the library for six hours to read books in exchange for pledges. They raised more than $1,700.

“It took a while, but every penny came in,” Meeks says.

After that, the vision for a more active and inviting library took off. The money raised at the read-a-thon paid for comfy couches and chairs. The PTA provided paint and fabric. Marsh corporate sponsor Fidelity Investments constructed a new bar in the center of the library called the Tech Café where students can use school-issued laptops and drink hot cocoa for 25 cents a cup. Uplift Education board member Todd Williams donated the bar stools.

Circulation has jumped by at least 150 percent from two years ago, and traffic has skyrocketed with about 260 students using the library each day. Teachers must reserve class time at least a month in advance.

The makeover caught the attention of producers at Nickelodeon. They included Marsh in a “Nick News with Linda Ellerbee” segment about how students are taking action to help improve their schools despite tough economic times. A date had not been confirmed at press time, but the episode is scheduled to air this month.

However, Marsh’s transformation could not have happened without first getting the students interested in using the library.

Before Meeks arrived in 2010, the facility had not been updated in 50 years. It remained closed before and after school hours.

“It was just kind of there,” says Kyle Richardson, Marsh’s former principal who has since moved to Woodrow Wilson High School.

Marsh already had been making strides academically as one of the first Dallas ISD campuses to use the Teach for America program, which trains and employs recent college graduates to serve in struggling public schools. The Texas Education Agency rating went from “acceptable” to “recognized.”

“We were already doing great things, but the library was the missing piece,” Richardson says. “I’d like to be able to say we went out and found the perfect librarian. But Mrs. Meeks walked in the door. She came to us with a vision. It was almost too good to be true.”

Richardson also hired a library assistant, Llora Singer, to help with daily tasks. DISD funding for her position had been in place for years; it just hadn’t been utilized.

“I’m the grandma in here,” says Singer, whose children attended Marsh. “I get all the benefits of supporting the students. Mrs. Meeks is the brainchild. She’s the dreamer. We make a good team.”

Meeks previously taught English at Scofield Christian School for 10 years but wanted to become a full-time librarian. She got the job at Marsh and is working on a master’s degree in library sciences. Although public school demographics and economic statuses are different from those of private institutions, the issues are the same, she says.

“I think my heart is just about the kids. This is such a precious age. They are all a little insecure about who they are. They are still looking for a place to belong. We have the best opportunity to impact the drop-out rate and help them find their roots.”

Meeks found that the main thing keeping students away from the library was

Marsh librarian Mary Virginia Meeks, left, has executed her vision for the library with help from her assistant Llora Singer, right.

the fear of unpaid fines for lost books. So, with permission from the higher-ups, she wiped the slates clean in exchange for students’ service in helping remodel the library. Even now, the book return policy is more relaxed to keep kids coming back.

“I don’t want fines hanging over their heads. I would rather lose a book than a student.”

In recent years, libraries have made a shift from stiff, quiet zones to social places where people not only read but share ideas. Librarians are now media specialists, teaching students how to use new technologies and conduct research.

“I

“It’s not just about books. It’s computers and other forms of media. It’s a learning commons. We want kids to have good memories here and to make them feel more comfortable going into a Starbucks or a university library,” Meeks says. “That was the goal.”

For seventh-grader Priscila Calderon, the library has become an escape from a stressful home life. Her family moved from Chicago last year, and she struggled to fit in as “the new kid” in school.

“I used to be really shy,” she says. “Now, I speak out more. I’m more independent. I spend as much time as I can at school because being at home is distracting.”

Calderon is always reading something, she says, especially science fiction books such as the Prophecy of the Sisters series.

“If I go a while without reading, my mind gets a bit foggy.”

Meeks encourages students to read books that relate to them, such as

the Bluford High series, which chronicles the lives of inner-city children.

“Their lives are not easy,” Meeks says. “I want them to find a book that speaks to where they are. They’re not going to read ‘Little Women.’ ”

After sixth grade, students often spend less time in the library and start becoming more involved in extracurricular activities. That’s a good thing, Meek says.

“These are seventh graders who are leading other groups like debate, drama and ROTC. But they still come back. This is their little home.”

Although Meeks had the vision, the students made the library a success. They have taken over through programs such as “adopt-a-shelf” in which the students clean, organize and maintain their own areas of the library.

“When these kids lives are a mess, they feel helpless. This shows them they have power. It isn’t hopeless.” n

The "Nick News wiTh LiNda eLLerbee" episode featuring Marsh is scheduled to air this month. Keep an eye out for it at news.nick.com.

Students busy themselves in the library before school starts, reading and working on class projects.

would rather lose a book than a student.”

BAPTIST

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

All services & Bible Study 9:20 & 10:50. Traditional (Sanctuary),

Contemporary (Great Hall), Amigos de Dios (Gym) / 214.860.1500

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

BIBLE CHURCHES

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

DISCIPLESOF 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

EPISCOPAL

THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION / 8787 Greenville Ave.

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

LUTHERAN

ZIONLUTHERAN 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

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

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

10:50 – Traditional & Contemporary Worship

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

SHORELINE DALLAS CHURCH / 5321 E. Mockingbird Lane

ShorelineDallas.com / 469.227.0471 / Pastor Earl McClellan

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

PRESBYTERIAN

NORTHPARK PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH / 214.363.5457

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

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

UNITY

UNITY OF DALLAS / A Positive Path For Spiritual Living

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

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

THE TRAGEDY OF ESAU

Withholding blessing can have dire consequences

One of the most precious gifts we can give is the gift of affirmation. Time and time again I have seen the effects of positive affirmation in the lives of people and, of course, I have seen the opposite: the lasting negative effects of those for whom the positive word was never uttered. If we are honest with ourselves, who among us hasn’t hungered to hear the words, “I’m proud of you.”

I think of poor Esau — that biblical character who was cheated out of his birthright by his clever brother, Jacob. This blessing from his father was rightly Esau’s as the older twin. One of the saddest questions I know is the plaintive words of Esau, “Father, don’t you have another blessing for me?” He never received that blessing, for there was only one to give. Such withheld blessings are one of life’s great tragedies.

Family therapists call such withheld blessings “destructive entitlement.” Not receiving what was rightly ours, that empty space can become destructive to our future personalities. Blessings withheld can be a great burden.

Knowing that many parents will read this column, I ask you to think about giving this gift freely to your children, because they are hungry for it. Few of us ever realize the extent to which our children — whatever their age — treasure a positive word from us.

I know that even my adult children want to know that their dad loves them, values them and is proud of them. Certainly I have spent a lot of time correcting them, for some correction is required for responsible parenthood, but have I balanced my criticism with generous words of praise?

and Android.

Someone has said that we should counter every critical word with three words of affirmation. That’s a good formula to keep

in mind as we seek to guide those who listen to our words more than we might guess.

There is a caveat, however — that how we give praise is important. In their book, “NurtureShock,” Po Bronson and Ashley Merriman cite a decade of research that points to the right, and the wrong, kinds of praise. As parents, many of us have a tendency to tell our kids, “You’re so smart,” as if our encouragement will remain an angel on their shoulders to remind them to excel. Actually, they found that this only places pressure upon them to succeed. They even

Few of us ever realize the extent to which our children — whatever their age — treasure a positive word from us.

will choose lesser challenges so that they succeed and prove us right.

The right kind of praise, they write, is based on actual performance: If they succeed, “You really did a good job.” When they try but fail, “You really worked hard.” The research showed that children given affirmations on performance actually relished bigger challenges because they were praised for good effort — a rather fascinating distinction.

In any case, I pray that I choose my words wisely and give the gift of affirmation generously. I want my kids (and now my grandkids) to know that I think they’re the best things since sliced bread.

Blair Monie is senior pastor of Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church (phpc.org). The Worship section is a regular feature underwritten by Advocate Publishing and the churches listed on these pages. For information about helping support the Worship section, call 214.560.4202.

LAKEHILL PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Leading to Success. 2720 Hillside Dr., Dallas 75214 / 214.826.2931, lakehillprep.org

OBSERVATION

March 21 & 22 and April 18 & 19

Highlander School

9120 Plano Road, Dallas, TX 75238 214-348-3220

www.highlanderschool.com

Since 1966 The Tradition Continues…

1902 Abrams Pkwy., Dallas / 214.821.2066 / schoolofcbd.com

SCOFIELD CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

3K through Grade 6 / 214.349.6843 / scofieldchristian.org

SPANISH HOUSE

5740 Prospect Ave. Dallas / 214.826.4410 / DallasSpanishHouse.com

WHITE ROCK NORTH SCHOOL

9727 White Rock Trail Dallas / 214.348.7410.

ST. CHRISTOPHER’S MONTESSORI SCHOOL

7900 Lovers Ln. / 214.363.9391 stchristophersmontessori.com

ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

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

ZION LUTHERAN SCHOOL

6121 E. Lovers Ln. Dallas / 214.363.1630/ ziondallas. org

by getting your paperwork to them by March 1st. Last minute delivery is not so kind

Be kind to your

BUSINESS BUZZ

The lowdown on what’s up with neighborhood businesses

Send business news tips to LIVELOCAL@ADVOCATEMAG.COM

Evol Society, REUSE Jeans open at The Shops at Park Lane

Love spelled backwards is evol. Thus hails the name of Dallas resident Samuel Bistrian’s newest project, a boutique in The Shops at Park Lane. Evol Society brings together artists, craftsmen and merchants with one overarching goal — to make the world a better place. Bistrian founded Roma Provisions, which provides a free pair of boots to poor children in Bistrian’s native Eastern Europe for every pair sold. Now, he has teamed up with other like-minded entrepreneurs, such as the Preston Hollow-based Uga Beads (“Support a Ugandan artist, empower a Ugandan child”). The store also sells items by WORN, Pearl,Mishky and M Kenya Designs. Bistrian calls it “fashion on a mission.” The Laguna Beach, Calif., store REUSE Jeans opened next to the Aveda Institute. The eco-friendly shop offers a line of 80-percent recycled denim for men and women. REUSE is an acronym for “Recycle. Environment. U. Save. Earth.” It has boutiques throughout the country, and this is its second flagship store.

Kids Cooking Company closes, Toy Maven expands

The popular children’s store Toy Maven has expanded, taking over the Kids Cooking Company space next door. Candace Williams owns both shops but decided it was too difficult to juggle both concepts. Last year, Toy Maven expanded into the space on the other side, for-

More business bits

merly occupied by fashion boutique Talula. All this growing is good news for the toy store, which is known for its wide selection of books, toys and gadgets.

Preston Royal Central Market now open Central Market’s ninth store, now open at Preston and Royal, is roughly half the size of its other stores. The specialty grocer looked to New York City grocery stores when faced with the challenge of fitting Central Market’s prototype into the former Borders space. According to Central Market senior vice president Stephen Butt, the CM team spent months traveling to New York “to study the most innovative delis and grocery concepts to learn how to pack the most flavor into every square foot.” The Preston Royal Central Market features an on-site bakery with traditional “boiled then baked” bagels and new bialys, and artisan salumi from NYC-based Charlito’s Cocina.

GET IN CONTACT

EVOL Society 8060 PARK, STE. 126

EVOLSOCIETY.COM

REUSE Jeans 8188 PARK, STE. 154, 972.330.4641

REUSEJEANS.COM

The Toy Maven 6025ROYAL, SUITE 223, 214.265.9971

THETOYMAVEN.COM

Central Market 10720 PRESTON, 972.860.6500

CENTRALMARKET.COM

Total Wine and More

TOTALWINE.COM

A Tiny Hiney Baby Boutique 11661 PRESTON 972.818.2000

ATINYHINEY.COM

Later this year, Total Wine and More is moving into the empty Office Max space on Central between Walnut Hill and Park Lane. A Tiny Hiney Baby Boutique is now open at Preston and Forest, selling designer children’s clothing. Chef John Tesar, formerly of The Mansion on Turtle Creek, announced he will open a new restaurant, The Spoon Bar and Kitchen, in Preston Center by July.

REUSEJeans

Do-gooders

Hillcrest High School

held its second Ethics Fair, sponsored by the Park Cities Rotary Club. Students displayed human values through visual art, creative writing, music and film. Pictured from left: First place winners junior Justice Calero (visual art), senior Jordan Johnson (creative writing) and junior Jack Stein (painting).

Classes/TuToring/ lessons

ART: Draw or Paint. All Levels. Lake Highlands N. Rec. Ctr. Jane Cross, 214-534-6829. Linda, 214-808-4919.

ARTISTIC GATHERINGS

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

DRUM & PIANO LESSONS Your location. All Ages/All Styles. UNT Grads. Betty & Bill 972-203-1573 • 469-831-7012

JEWELRY MAKING CLASSES

214-824-2777 www.beadsofsplendor.com

Lakewood Shopping center: 1900 Abrams Pkwy @ La Vista

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

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

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

UKULELE LESSONS Instruments, Workshops. www.UkeLadyMusic.com 214-924-0408

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

Pageant boys

W.T. White High School held its second Mr. W.T. White pageant with 20 senior boys vying for the title and scholarship money. The event also included a Mr. Congeniality segment, and donations benefited a charity of the winner’s choice. This year, the boys raked in a total of $1,300 for St. Jude Children’s Hospital. From left, Mr. W.T. White first runner-up Alex Madere , Mr. W.T. White winner Marvin Melendez and Mr. Congeniality Ruben Rios .

to advertise call 214.560.4203

ChildCare

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

employmenT

PART-TIME PERSON to write/manage E-Newsletter for dental field. Dental experience preferred. 972-342-5894

BULLETIN BOARD

Business opporTuniTies

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

serviCes for you

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

CONFUSED? FRUSTRATED? Let A Seasoned Pro Be The Interface Between You & That Pesky Computer. Hardware & Software Installation, Troubleshooting, Training. $60/hr. 1 hr min. Dan 214-660-3733 or stykidan@sbcglobal.net

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

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

WORK ON JET ENGINES. Train For Hands On Aviation Career. FAA Approved Program. Financial Aid If Qualified. Job Placement Assistance. AIM 866-453-6204

Rockin’ Rita

The St. Rita Catholic School Parents Club in February hosted its annual auction. The sold-out Rockin Rita event featured a live auction, live music and dancing. Pictured from left: Suzanne Moran, Suzanne Eubanks, Ronna Spitz, Dr. Elena Hines, Melonie Koeijmans, Carolyn Wolf, Terri Castle and Lauren Law .

Snow day

Professional services

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

BOOKKEEPING NEEDS? Need Help Organizing Finances?

No Job Too Small or Big.

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

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

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

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

.com 214.560.4207

Buy/sell/trade

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

PLAN AHEAD! Escape Dallas Heat Next Summer. Beach House Near Vancoover BC. Visit vrbo.com Listing #359531. Jonathan.

TEXAS RANGERS FRONT-ROW BASEBALL TICKETS

Share prime, front-row Texas Rangers baseball tickets (available in sets of 10 or 20 games) during the 2012 season. Prices start at $95 per ticket (sets of 2 or 4 tickets per game available). Seats are behind the plate and next to both the first- and third-base dugouts. Other great seats available starting at $55 per ticket; seats also available in the Cuervo Club. Entire season available except for opening day; participants randomly draw numbers to determine draft order so the selection process is fair for everyone. E-mail rwamre@advocatemag.com or call 214-560-4212 for more information.

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

estate/GaraGe sales

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

ESTATE SALES & LIQUIDATION SERVICES

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

First-grader Roman Solis (left) and preschool student Zane Purdy go sledding on the Lamplighter School’s winter wonderland. The school transformed its playground during the annual auction.

& HEATING 50% off Service Fee w/ Repair. Res & Comm. 10% Off Repairs w/ purchase of Maintenance Agreement. BBB Approved. CCs accepted. TACLA00029466E 214-912-7900

appliaNCe

APPlIANCE REPAIR SPECIAlIST

Repair, Sales. 214-321-4228

JESSE’S A/C & APPlIANCE SERVICE

TACLB13304C All Makes/Models. 214-660-8898

Serving your Neighborhood Since 1993

Repairing: Refrigerators •Washer/Dryers

• Ice Makers •Stoves • Cooktops • Ovens 214✯823✯2629

CarpeNtry & remodeliNg

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

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

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

ERIC CANTU CONSTRUCTION

Affordable Remodeling. Kitchens, Baths, Additions, Cabinetry & more. 972-754-9988 EricCantu.com

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

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

KEN’S RESIDENTIAl REMODElING 214-886-8927. kenscontracting.com

KITCHEN AND BATHROOM SPECIAlISTS

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

NEW TV WON’T FIT YOUR CABINET?

We rebuild, finish & install your new TV. olivercustomfurniture.com 972-962-4847

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

PREVIEW CONSTRUCTION INC.

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

SQUARE NAIl WOODWORKING

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

TK COMPlETE REMODElING Carpentry, Doors, Paint. Window Clean 972-533-2872

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

Cleaning ServiCeS

A CLEANING SERVICES

mcprofessionalcleaning.com 469-951-2948

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

MAID 4 YOU Bonded/Insured. Park Cities/M Streets Refs. Green Cleaning Avail.214-232-9629

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

SUNSHINE HOUSE CLEANING

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

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

WANTED: HOUSES TO CLEAN

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

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

ConCrete/ maSonry/paving

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

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

CONCRETE REPAIRS/REPOURS

Demo existing. Driveways/Patio/Walks

Pattern/Color available

972-672-5359 (32 yrs.)

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

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

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

eleCtriCal ServiCeS ’07,

Know

Locally owned and operated since 1980

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

Call 214-821-8888 www.dallascleanfreaks.com

DON'T TEAR OUT

Stronger than cement Cooler Customizable Call Us

972.849.5589 concreteartist.com

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

Deckoart.com

eleCtriCal ServiCeS

ANTHONY’S ELECTRIC Master Electrician. TECL24948 anthonyselectricofdallas.com Family Owned/Operated. Insd. 214-328-1333

DALLAS ELECTRICIAN- SINCE 1975

214-340-0770 EL 00957 kirkwoodelectric.net

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

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

FenCing & DeCkS

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

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

A FATHER, SON & GRANDSON TEAM Fences, Gates, Decks. Haven 214-327-0560

Flooring & Carpeting

BEAR FOOT HARDWOODS 214-734-8851

Complete Hardwood Flooring Services

DALLAS HARDWOODS 214-724-0936

Installation, Repair, Refinish, Wax, Hand Scrape. Residential, Commercial. Sports Floors. 25 Yrs. HASTINGS STAINED CONCRETE New/ Remodel. Stain/Wax Int/Ext. Nick. 214-341-5993. www.hastingsfloors.com

STAINED & SCORED CONCRETE FLOORS New/Remodel. Res/Com. Int/Ext. Refin. 15 Yrs. TheConcreteStudio.com 214-320-2018

SUPER QUALITY WOOD FLOORS Jim Crittendon, 214-821-6593

WORLEY TILE & FLOORING Custom Marble Install. 214-779-3842

Superior Quality: Installation • Refinishing Repair Cleaning & Waxing Old World Hand Scrape

$35.00 Off – 1st Full Detail Clean Complimentary quotes!

214.750.4888 19 years in business!

Residential Commercial Make-readys Windows Carpet Construction Remodel Cleans lecleandallas.com

ComputerS & eleCtroniCS

BILL’S COMPUTER REPAIR

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

COMPUTER PROBLEMS SOLVED

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

IQUEUE MEDIA COMPANY 214-478-8644

TV Installation, Computer Repair, Security.

LENTZ SERVICES Your whole-home lighting/ electrical resource. Lic/Insd. 972-241-0622

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

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

AMBASSADOR FENCE INC.

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

ARTDECK-O.COM 20 Year Warranty!

Decks, Fences, Pergolas 214-435-9574

CREATIVE METAL SOLUTIONS LLC

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

KIRKWOOD FENCE & DECK

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

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

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

GaraGe Doors

GARAGE DOOR & SPRING REPAIR

972-672-0848 TexasGaragePros.com

20% off with “Advocate Magazine”

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

UNITED GARAGE DOORS Repair/Replace. Res/Com. Doors/Gate Openers. 214-826-8096

Glass, WinDoWs & Doors

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

EAST DALLAS WINDOW CLEANING Power Wash. Free Est. Dependable. Derek. 214-827-7661

LAKE HIGHLANDS GLASS & MIRROR

custom mirrors • shower enclosures store fronts • casements 214-349-8160

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

PELLA WINDOWS & DOORS

Specializing in Replacement Windows & Doors. Dan Cupp 972-742-6011 cuppdw@pella.com

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

CLEAR VIEW

HanDyman services

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

A NEIGHBORHOOD HANDYMAN

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

A+ HANDYMAN KARL Home Repairs, Remodels & Restoration. 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. 25 yrs. exp. References. Derry 214-505-4830

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

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

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

HANDYMAN MATTERS

Your home repair specialist handymanmatters.com/dallas 972-308-6035

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

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

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

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

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

WANTED: ODD JOBS & TO DO LISTS

Allen’s Handyman & Home Repair 214-288-4232

House PaintinG

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

#1 GET MORE PAY LES

Painting. 85% Referrals. Free Est. 214-348-5070

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

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

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

LAKEWOOD PAINTING Interior/Exterior. Affordable & Reliable. 214-264-4308

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

WHITE ROCK PAINT & REMODEL

References. Mark Reindel 214-321-5280

House PaintinG Painting · Remodeling

214-870-3939

www.amistadcsc.com

NAT-90143-1

BRIAN

GREAM

PAINTING & RENOVATIONS LLC

• Interior/Exterior • Drywall

• Rotten Wood • Gutters

All General Contracting Needs

PayPal ®

214.542.6214

WWW.BGRONTHEWEB.COM

BRIANGREAM@YAHOO.COM

insulation/ raDiant Barrier

LANDMARK ENERGY SOLUTIONS

WE

• Tubs, Tiles or Sinks

• Cultured Marble

• Kitchen Countertops

214-395-9148. Radiant Barrier, Insulation. Free Quotes. Member BBB call today...972.379.9530

Energy Costs through the roof? We can help.

laWns, GarDens & trees

Best Quality. Best Prices.

interior DesiGn

CUSTOM DRAPERY Window Treatments, Blinds & etc. Linda. 214-212-8058 dblinda86@msn.com

HAND CARVED STONE fireplaces, fine art, architectural stone & restoration. DavisCornell.com 214-693-1795

INTERIOR DESIGN / CONSULTING

Carolyn Contreras ASID

Licensed/Exp. 214-363-0747

LILLI DESIGN Residential Design & Renovations NCIDQ Cert. 10 yrs exp. www.Lilli-design.com

Katie Reynolds, RID 214-370-8221

ROB’S HOME STAGING.COM 214-507-5688

Changing Rooms For All Reasons and Seasons

KitcHen/BatH/ tile/Grout

BATHTUB, COUNTERTOP & TILE

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

BRIAN WARD STONE & TILE 972-989-9899

LH Dad & Firefighter. 12 years of Tile Experience.

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

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

STONE AGE COUNTER TOPS

Granite, Marble, Tile, Kitchen/Bath Remodels. CJ-972-276-9943 cjrocksthehouse1@verizon.net

TOM HOLT TILE 30 Yrs Experience In Tile, Backsplashes & Floors. Refs. Avail. 214-770-3444

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

A BETTER TREE COMPANY • JUST TREES Complete tree services including Tree & Landscape Lighting! Call Mark 214-332-3444

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

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

AYALA’S LANDSCAPING SERVICE Call the Land Expert Today! Insured. 214-773-4781

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

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

CHUPIK TREE SERVICE

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

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

DALLAS K.D.R.SERVICES • 214-349-0914

Lawn Service & Landscape Installation

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

HOLMAN IRRIGATION

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

MOW YOUR YARD $27 White Rock Landscaping 214-415-8434

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

lawns, gaRdens & tRees

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 Repaired. Call Kevin at 214-535-3352,Lic#7840. www.bigdirrigation.com

TAYLOR MADE IRRIGATION

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

THE POND MAN Water Gardens

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

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

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

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

Plumbing

Slab Leak Specialists – inquire about reroute instead of jackhammering

• All Plumbing Repairs • Licensed/Insured 214-727-4040

ML-M36843

ALL

Master Plumber M-17697

972-742-3858

Pools

ADAIR POOL & SPA SERVICE

1 month free service for new customers. Call for details. 469-358-0665.

MICHAEL’S POOL SERVICE

april deadliNe march 7 to advertise call 214.560.4203

McDANIEL PEST CONTROL

Prices Start at $75 +Tax for General Treatment

Average Home, Interior, Exterior & Attached Garage Quotes for Other Services 214-328-2847

Lakewood Resident

Plumbing ANDREWS PLUMBING • 214-354-8521

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

Sewers • Drains • Bonded

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

ARRIAGA PLUMBING: Faucet, Sewer, Sink Repairs. Water/Slab Leaks. Shower Pans. Gas Testing. Remodels, Water Heaters, Stoppages. Insured. Lic 20754 214-321-0589, 214-738-7116

ASTRO PLUMBING #M36580 Insured. Any & All Plumbing Problems. 214-566-9737 Mike

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

JUSTIN’S PLUMBING SERVICE

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

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

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

SPECK PLUMBING Licensed & Insured

C 214-562-2360 *H 214-660-8378

advocatemag.com/social

Maintenance & Repair 214-727-7650

LEAFCHASER’S POOL SERVICE

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

Roofing & gutteRs

A&B GUTTER 972-530-5699

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

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

GUARANTY ROOFING 214-760-3666 Re-Roofing/Repairs/Green Options. Free Estimates. www.guarantyroof.com

Allstate Homecraft Roofing

• Roofing & Remodel • Additions • Licensed/Insured Over 1,000 Satisfied Customers in the Lakewood, Lake Highlands, Preston Hollow, Park Cities Areas – M ETAL S PECIALIST • Free Estimates 214-824-0767 allstatehomecraft.com

BERT ROOFING INC.

Family owned and operated for over 40 years

• Residential/Commercial • Over 29,000 roofs completed • Six NTRCA “Golden Hammer” Awards • Free Estimates www.bertroofing.com 214.321.9341

ADVOCATE PUBLISHING does not pre-screen, recommend or investigate the advertisements and/or Advertisers published in our magazines. As a result, Advocate Publishing is not responsible for your dealings with any Advertiser. Please ask each Advertiser that you contact to show you the necessary licenses and/or permits required to perform the work you are requesting. Advocate Publishing takes comments and/or complaints about Advertisers seriously, and we do not publish advertisements that we know are inaccurate, misleading and/or do not live up to the standards set by our publications. If you have a legitimate complaint or positive comment about an Advertiser, please contact us at 214-5604203. Advocate Publishing recommends that you ask for and check references from each Advertiser that you contact, and we recommend that you obtain a written statement of work to be completed, and the price to be charged, prior to approving any work or providing an Advertiser with any deposit for work to be completed.

•

you don’t shut up, I’m goIng to shoot you.”

Those were the words that began Sarah Downs’s frightening ordeal. She was getting ready for her day that morning when the doorbell rang. She has a glass door and believed the person standing in front of her was her handyman.

When she opened the door, she quickly realized she was mistaken.

The large man standing there looked bleary-eyed and slurred his speech.

The Victim: Sarah Downs

The Crime: Aggravated robbery

Date: Tuesday, Jan. 31

Time: 8:57 a.m.

Location: 10600 block of Park Preston

Downs would later say she thinks he may have been on drugs. At first he asked if “Brenda” was there in a mumbled tone, and then tried to force his way in. Downs attempted to shut the door, but the robber forced his way in and pulled out a handgun. He then uttered the words above and pushed her to the ground. She would sustain a back injury after just undergoing spinal fusion.

After grabbing her up from the ground, the gunman ordered the retired teacher to take him to the jewelry. She led him to her bedroom. As he dragged her, Downs attempted to touch the emergency button in her home, but was unsuccessful.

“I thought, ‘This is the end of my life. I’m going to get raped or killed or both,’” she says.

In her bedroom, the robber rifled through her drawers and said all of her jewelry was fake and to take him to the

more expensive items. Downs told him that was all she had, and he then pushed her down and ran out. Downs believes he may have thought her attempt at the panic button was successful. In her fright, Downs grabbed the phone and hid as she called 911.

Police took fingerprints at the home, and a neighbor described seeing a 2005 white or cream-colored SUV in front of the home around that time. Downs described the attacker as a very large (but not overweight) caucasian with a stubbly beard.

“It was a nightmare,” Downs says. “The policeman was just here, and he said an armed robbery home invasion is very rare in this area. Just don’t open your door unless you absolutely know who it is. That’s the moral to the story.”

Dallas Police Lt. Richard Dwyer of the North Central Patrol Division says this case is rare. He emphasizes that it is important to not be too trusting of people at the door.

In situations where elderly people live alone, “we rely on family members to take steps to help secure the elder person’s valuables and to communicate with them if strangers approach,” Dwyer says.

Dwyer says suspects in these cases usually use three different type of stories to gain entry into a home: They give the impression that they hold a position of authority and that the homeowner should listen to them; they try to prey on the sympathy of the person (a woman appears to be pregnant and comes to the door saying she is overheated and can she just sit down on the couch for a minute); or the suspect gives them a “chance in a lifetime” line.

“If

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