2014 August Preston Hollow

HALLELUJAH!

LISTEN FOR THE SOUNDS OF AMAZING MUSIC RISING FROM NEIGHBORHOOD CHURCHES AND TEMPLES

to enjoy the softer side of mammography.

Monday Night Mammos at the Breast Center at Methodist Dallas

Finally, your annual mammogram is worth looking forward to. Join us for Monday Night Mammos*, where you will get a mammogram while we treat you to some well-deserved pampering. Relish in relaxation with a gentle hand rub and calming chair massage. Indulge your senses with aromatherapy and delight your palate with light spa cuisine. We’ll even valet park your car. And when it’s time for your mammo, you’ll receive fivestar treatment. Best of all, you’ll know results in 24 hours. Register today for peace of body, mind, and breast health.

MethodistHealthSystem.org

For details and to register, call 214-947-3441 or visit MethodistHealthSystem.org/MondayMammos

Upcoming dates:

August 25, September 22, October 6, October 13, October 20, October 27

SPA

Technologically Advanced Orthopedic Surgery

At Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas, we can provide care for all your joint concerns. Using advanced technologies, our team of physicians, nurses, and physical and occupational therapists on the medical staff diagnose, treat and rehabilitate your injuries quickly, so you can get back to your regular lifestyle. Whether it’s your knee, neck, back, hip, foot, ankle, shoulder, elbow, hand or wrist, our dedicated multidisciplinary team is here, ready to work with you through recovery. Ask your doctor to have your joint replacement procedures done at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas.

Radiation oncologist Dr. Robert Timmerman and colleagues changed the standard of care for lung cancer when they demonstrated that patients with inoperable disease could still be effectively treated with a newer, more potent form of radiation. Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy is a technology that was pioneered at UT Southwestern and is now being adopted worldwide. It’s another example of the specialized care available at UT Southwestern, where scientific research, advanced technology, and leading-edge treatments come together to bring new hope to cancer patients.

To learn more, call 214-645-8300 or visit UTSWmedicine.org

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This is where lung cancer patients are beating the odds

GOOD WORK

If you have a job worth doing, whether it’s making you rich or not, consider yourself lucky

When we talk about our jobs, there are really only two things we can say: Either we love them or we endure them.

Right?

Most of us, it seems, simply endure our jobs. We show up because we need the money, and even if we don’t like what we have, most of us are too lazy or too frightened to do anything about it.

A very few of us really love our jobs wholeheartedly. For whatever reason, we’ve found something that is fulfilling enough to make us happy, whether we’re becoming rich or not.

We talk about money, how it impacts our job happiness and how we should be making more of it, but there are plenty of studies and research papers that say when push comes to shove, money is rarely the most important factor people consider when evaluating their jobs.

It’s a factor, to be sure, but stuff like flexibility, fulfillment and a sense of accomplishment or value tends to be higher than cash on the “happiness” list. And as difficult as it can be to find a job that pays well, it’s even more difficult to find one that seems worth doing.

So many job descriptions sound great — they make it sound like you’ll be running the company, helping out widows and orphans, and earning tons of money to boot.

But when you show up for the interview, things look and sound less rosy. And then you start the job and find out your co-workers fell for the same story and now wish they hadn’t.

Then there are other places that seem to operate on the “rewards” system, as in you’ll be lucky if they even consider you for a position because everyone who works there is great and the company is great and everyone loves everything and everyone, blah, blah, blah. Those are scary, too, because honestly, what workplace do you know where everyone really loves everyone else?

And then there are the jobs where they promise you the moon and tell you the sky’s the limit, and it turns out there’s a limit and it’s nowhere near the sky.

There just aren’t many places that offer a fair wage, an opportunity to have your voice heard when decisions are made, and

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an opportunity to leave each day feeling like you’ve done something useful or important with your time at work.

If you’ve found one of those places, keep reminding yourself what you have and quit listening to the whiners who don’t have anything good to say about their job.

And if you hate your job and don’t know what to do about it? Well, you could go talk with the boss, but that’s probably a whole new column for another day.

contributors: GAYLA BROOKS, SEAN CHAFFIN, ANGELA HUNT GEORGE MASON, BLAIR MONIE, ELLEN RAFF, PAM HARRIS, KRISTEN MASSAD, WHITNEY THOMPSON

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copy editor: LARRA KEEL

interns: SAMMI BRAUN, VALIRIE MORGAN

and do not necessarily reflect the

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When push comes to shove, money is rarely the most important factor people consider when evaluating their jobs.

Saving Serving Dallas. Lives.

Charles A. Sammons Tower

At Methodist Dallas Medical Center, we are on a mission to save and improve lives. The newly opened, one-of-a-kind Sammons Tower expands our ER and trauma capacity tenfold. When time is critical, more than 3,900 lifesavers stand ready with innovative technology, highlevel trauma and orthopedic services, advanced neurosurgery and neurocritical care, one of the area’s leading organ transplant programs, and above all, compassionate quality care. In critical moments, Methodist Dallas is here for life.

Methodist Health Systems/Richardson Medical Full page

MHS4016-AM Display Full (3 mag)

MethodistHealthSystem.org/DallasEmergency

community | events | food

Cobbling man

How a simple trade became a Preston Hollow institution

Step into the shoes of Preston Hollow cobbler George Nikolopoulos, and you’ll be immersed in decades of trade experience with some star-studded appearances along the way.

Nikolopoulos owns The Cobbler, a shoe repair shop that has been a fixture in the Preston Royal Shopping Center for more than 40 years and is one of the original tenants. The Cobbler also fixes bags and belts and even makes custom items such as wallets made from exotic animal skin.

Nikolopoulos learned to cobble when he was growing up around the family trade in Greece. He moved to Dallas in 1974 to organize the school at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church.

“I have two professions: I’m a cobbler, and I’m also a schoolteacher,” he says.

Nikolopoulos says that when he saw the shop was for sale, his cobbling skills “came in handy.” He worked both jobs until 2005, when he retired from teaching to focus on his role as The Cobbler.

“I love whatever I do, whether it’s school or shoes, and I will do it the best way possible,” he says. “That’s why I retired from the school. I got older and couldn’t do both jobs with the same force, the same strength, so I had to give up one of them.”

The Cobbler has a handful of celebrity customers from our neighborhood, including former president George W. Bush, Ross Perot, the Dixie Chicks and country singer

Charley Pride.

“I remember Charley Pride was giving a concert in Sydney, Australia, and a few hours before he left for Australia he came to have a quick fix on his bag. I said, ‘I will do that if you invite my brother and his family to your concert.’ They were living in Australia. He went there and called them personally, and we took a picture to prove it to my brother.”

As for the most popular item that comes in for repair? Nikolopoulos says it’s the Christian Louboutin shoe, hands down. Customers often ask him to fix the signature red sole.

“My favorite part of the job is getting a shoe, and in the beginning thinking that it

George Nikolopoulos, owner of The Cobbler at Preston and Royal: Photo by Kim Leeson

can’t be repaired,” he says. “But then you think it over and find a way to repair them and give them back to the customer, and they say, ‘Oh! It’s a miracle!’ I like the challenge.”

Although business has been booming, Nikolopoulos worries about what will happen to his shop after he retires.

“It’s very important, but this type of business is fading away. I would like to train some people, but nobody wants to learn. So, if I retire, I’m afraid this business will be lost. It’s not an easy business to step into.”

His customers have remained loyal, though — one of the things Nikolopoulos loves most about being The Cobbler.

“It’s wonderful for me to see kids [whose] shoes I’ve fixed back in the ’70s and ’80s, and today they bring their own kids,” he says. “The generations, they remember me.” —Valirie Morgan

“If I retire, I’m afraid this business will be lost. It’s not an easy business to step into.”

Photo by Kim Leeson

What gives?

Small ways that you can make a big di erence for nonprofits

Hug a tree

Learn how to protect and preserve trees in Dallas by joining the Citizen Forester Program, which teaches participants basics such as tree identification, planting and pruning, and various diseases and pathogens. The course includes classroom instruction as well as field training with experts from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Graduates of the program must complete 15 volunteer hours annually and six hours of continuing education, working with the city on tree planting projects. Eventually, they may serve as tree advocates, speaking to homeowners’ associations, schools and clubs. The program costs $75. Registration ends Aug. 15, and classes begin in September. Visit dallastrees.org.

Cook for the hounds

The Mercury’s celebrated executive chef, Chris Ward, opens his kitchen for a cooking demonstration benefiting The Greyhound Adoption League of Texas. GALT is a nonprofit that works to place retired racing dogs into loving homes. Tickets to the event, which runs 2-5 p.m. Aug. 16, start at $60. Guests can sample some of Ward’s favorite dishes and bid in the silent auction for artwork, gift certificates, custom jewelry and other items. For details, call 972.960.7774 or visit greytstore.com.

Pay it forward

To help the Dallas Holocaust Museum spread its message of tolerance and education, take advantage of the new “pay it forward” program, which allows museum patrons to pay additional admission. The money goes toward granting free entry to other visitors. For more information, email communications@dallasholocaustmuseum.org.

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.

Out & About

August 2014

Through Oct. 5

Oscar de la Renta: Five Decades of Style

This special exhibit at the George W. Bush Presidential Center opened at the end of July and takes an in-depth look at the famed fashion designer’s career and work. The exhibit features more than 60 garments, including some worn by First Ladies Laura Bush, Hillary Clinton and Nancy Reagan, as well as Bush’s daughters, Jenna and Barbara. George W. Bush Presidential Center, 2943 SMU Boulevard, 214.200.4300, bushcenter.org, $10-$16

THROUGH AUG. 30

Frontier Faith: The Texas Cowboy

Artist and illustrator Jack Terry presents his work of the Old West at the Museum of Biblical Art. Terry is a cowboy himself, having spent his life roping cattle and breaking wild horses. His portraits have been exhibited in galleries all over the world.

Museum of Biblical Art, 7500 Park Lane, 214.368.4622, biblicalarts.org, $10-$12

AUG. 5, 12, 19, 26

Open-play badminton

Get your game face on and prepare to sharpen your skills during open-play badminton at Churchill Recreation Center 11:45 a.m.–1:45 p.m. Saturdays. Churchill Recreation Center, 6906 Churchill Way, 214.670.6477, $3

AUG. 7

SMU Summer Author Series presents Jeffrey Kahn

Jeffrey Kahn, associate professor of law at the SMU Dedman School of Law, discusses balancing individual liberty with national security from 6:30-7:45

p.m. in the Preston Royal Library auditorium. Kahn is the author of “Mrs. Shipley’s Ghost: The Right to Travel and Terrorist Watchlists,” in which he tells the story of a federal employee who controlled passports during the Cold War. Preston Royal Library, 5626 Royal, 214.670.7128, free

AUG. 7

Family Fun Night

Put on a swimsuit and grab the kids for Family Fun Night at the Town North YMCA outdoor pool, complete with roasted hot dogs for dinner. The beach-themed event starts at 5:30 p.m. Town North Family YMCA, 4332 Northaven, 214.357.8431, ymcadallas.org, $15

more LOCAL EVENTS or submit your own

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Aug. 8

Christine Lavin

Singer-songwriter, guitarist and recording artist Christine Lavin performs at Uncle Calvin’s Coffeehouse at 8 p.m. A New York City resident, Lavin is working on her 21st solo album. The opening act is Ashley Monical, whose style has been compared to Bonnie Raitt and Sheryl Crow.

Uncle Calvin’s Coffeehouse, 9555 N. Central, 214.363.0044, $18 advance/$22 door

AUG. 15

James Rollins

Barnes and Noble hosts an event at 7 p.m. with author James Rollins, whose book “The 6th Extinction” hits bookstores on Aug. 12. The novel is the latest installment in his “Sigma Force” book series.

Barnes and Noble, 7700 W. Northwest Highway #300, 214.739.1124, barnesandnoble.com, free

AUG. 16

Midtown Art Walk

On the third Saturday of each month, The Gallery at Midtown opens its studios, featuring scultpure, paintings, handmade jewelry, pottery, glass art and other artistic mediums. The exhibits run 6-10 p.m.

Valley View Center, 13331 Preston, galleryatmidtown.com, free

AUG. 16

Fairy Gardens: Visitors from the Greener Realm

This workshop is designed to allow parents and children to work together while creating miniature worlds, and the finished product can be taken home. Registration costs include materials for the piece, and the workshop runs from 10-11:30 a.m.

North Haven Gardens, 7700 Northaven, 214.363.5316, nhg.com, $49.99

AUG. 31

Celebrate Yoga

Yoga beginners and masters of the mat can attend a morning of classes covering a variety of yoga styles from 8-10:30 a.m. at the Town North YMCA. The registration cost includes classes, a shirt, a gift bag and snacks.

Town North Family YMCA, 4332 Northaven, 214.357.8431, ymcadallas.org, $15

Delicious

Bistro fare

PEAK WOOD FIRED GRILLE

6135 Luther 214.361.6984

peakgrille.com

HOURS: 11 A.M.-10 P.M. MONDAY-FRIDAY, NOON-10 P.M. SATURDAY

PRICE: $8-$21 FOR LUNCH, $10-$28 FOR DINNER TIP: $3 WELLS, $3 PINTS, 20 PERCENT OFF WINE BY THE GLASS 4-6 P.M. MONDAY-FRIDAY

AMBIANCE: CASUAL

For more than 20 years, chef Dieter Paul whipped up veal and chicken piccata for a steady stream of regulars in Preston Center’s Cafe Expresso. When Paul retired in 2012, new owners changed the name to Bowen’s Cafe Expresso, and former “Top Chef” contestant Tiffany Derry revamped the menu. “A lot of the regulars didn’t like all of the changes,” chef Scott Hoffner says. “It was a little too foodie for the neighborhood — they funkified it.” Park Cities neighbors Mike and Jessie Lo Johnson took ownership of the restaurant, now called Peak Wood Fired Grille, in October, and Hoffner came on as executive chef in January. He says Peak’s vibe is more youthful and inviting. “It is a place where you can have a chefdriven meal — whether it’s a wood-fired pizza or ahi tuna,” he says. Hoffner wanted to stick with what the regulars liked best, so he kept the veal and piccata on the menu, adding his own twist with a lemon-butter caper sauce. The most popular menu item?

“People are freaking out about the jumbo lump crab cake,” Hoffner says. Moist and fresh — and lacking the dense bread crumbs often overused in the dish — the crab cake is served alongside a jalapeno-cilantro aioli for dipping and a fresh garden salad tossed in a wasabi vinaigrette. Having served as executive chef and general manager of TJ’s Seafood Market for two years, Hoffner is no stranger to preparing exceptional seafood. In fact, he says the wasabi dressing is a carryover from TJ’s — and something that he’s been perfecting for the past 15 years in kitchens all over the country. He’s been perfecting the menu at Peak, too, sticking with the theme of keeping the regulars happy. In July, he ditched the less popular white clam pizza and added a 12-ounce steak at the request of business diners. “A lot of the menu is health-driven with light choices,” he says, “but these Texas boys want some meat.”

—Whitney Thompson

Jumbo lump crab cake: Photo by Mark Davis

Best Pizza IN

PRESTON HOLLOW

And the best-pizza winner is …

Al’s Pizzeria

Runner up: Mimi’s Pizzeria

Third place: My Family’s Pizza

Cheesy, thin and pliable, yet sturdy enough to be folded in half and gripped by its crust: These are just a few prerequisites for a good slice of New York-style pizza. Al’s Pizzeria (3701 W. Northwest Highway, Suite 309) executes all of these and has done so since opening its doors near Bachman Lake in 1974. Not much has changed since then, with the exception of a few new salads and pasta dishes, says Fran Pjetrovic, who owns the restaurant with her husband, Medo. The couple took over the restaurant in 1979 and have been working there with their family ever since. When landlords required Al’s to

relocate in 2011, neighbors eagerly awaited the restaurant’s return. “People kept peeking into the windows during construction, asking when we would reopen,” Fran recalls. Upon reopening in October, Al’s popularity has proven that amid dozens of thin-crusted competitors, a solid recipe for a New York-style pie stands the test of time.

—Whitney Thompson

Find out more about our yearlong reader’s choice contest and cast your vote for next month’s category: best breakfast/brunch. Visit prestonhollow.advocatemag.com/bestof.

Photo by James Coreas

Although everyone loves good oldfashioned strawberry shortcake this time of year, the idea of grilling dessert screams summer in my mind. Stone fruits — those with large, hard seeds at the center such as peaches, plums and nectarines — are perfect for grilling because they are firm enough to maintain their structure while being extra sweet and juicy. Take full advantage of the season. Grill up these peaches and layer them in flaky shortcake paired with a brown sugar whipped cream to finish out this summer with joy.

Grilled peach shortcakes with brown sugar whipped cream

SHORTCAKES

2 cups all purpose flour

4 tablespoons sugar, granulated

1 tablespoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

7 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1 cup + 1 tablespoon heavy cream

1 egg

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt in a mixing bowl. With paddle attachment, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it becomes a course crumb. Add 1 cup of cream and mix until dough starts to come together.

Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll out to approximately 1 inch thick. Cut into eight 2 ½ inch rounds and place evenly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Whisk together the egg and the 1 tablespoon of heavy cream and brush over the tops of each dough round. Sprinkle each round with cinnamon sugar. Bake until golden brown, approximately 25 minutes.

Cool completely before cutting each shortcake in half and layer each one with brown sugar whipped cream and grilled peaches (see grilled peach and whipped cream recipes opposite). Serve immediately.

GRILLED PEACHES

4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted

½ cup butter, unsalted (1 stick)

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon granulated sugar

DIRECTIONS

Heat grill to high (or for indoor grilling, a grill pan works great). Melt butter and mix in cinnamon and sugar. Brush peaches with butter mixture and place cut-side down on the grill and grill until cooked through

Once peaches are removed from the grill, brush one more coat of butter mixture while hot.

BROWN SUGAR WHIPPED CREAM

2 cups heavy whipping cream

4 tablespoons light brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS

In a medium bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add brown sugar and vanilla extract. Continue beating until stiff peaks form.

Kristen Massad writes a monthly column about sweets and baked goods. The Preston Hollow resident graduated from the French Culinary Institute in New York City and owned Tart Bakery on Lovers Lane for eight years. She blogs about food and lifestyles at inkfoods.com.

Photo by Kristen Massad

Our neighborhood has become a sanctuary for world-class musicians

STORY BY EMILY TOMAN | PHOTOS BY KIM LEESON

Preston Hollow doesn’t have a music scene. Or maybe, you just have to know where to look.

Our neighborhood churches and synagogues are home to some of the best performers around.

Pipedreams

EVERY ORGAN HAS ITS OWN PERSONALITY. The one inside the main sanctuary at St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, with 68 stops and 5,100 pipes that stretch toward the ceiling and frame the stained glass Creation Window, is suited for playing French romantic music.

“It has a particularly French accent to it,” says James Diaz, St. Michael’s organist and music director. “Organs tend to have a very distinct sound.”

That sound hasn’t lost its effect, especially in the church. At St. Michael, the choir and organ occupy the loft at the back of the sanctuary, almost completely out of the congregation’s sight, which “adds an element of mysticism,” Diaz says, as the music envelopes the room.

At the end of a patriotic service in June, before filing out of the sanctuary, guests stood up and turned around to watch Diaz and his wife, Hyeon Jeong, perform “Stars and Stripes Forever.” It’s a typical scene even during routine services, says Wendy Finley, who has been a St. Michael choir member for about 19 years.

“This is some of the best music in town,” she says. “It’s like coming to a concert every week.”

And Diaz has the credentials to back it up. He grew up listening to clas-

“This is some of the best music in town. It’s like coming to a concert every week.”

sical music, namely Johann Sebastian Bach, whose favorite instrument was the organ. Diaz took organ lessons as a teenager and continued his studies at the University of Michigan and then the Cleveland Institute of Music.

“It was definitely a niche pursuit for a high schooler,” he says.

At just 27 years old, he became the music director at St. Michael. In 2000, he won first prize in the Dallas International Organ Competition at the Meyerson Symphony Center. Under his direction, the St. Michael choir learns to sing Anglican church hymns but also receives a music education each week and an understanding about the message behind each piece.

“It gives you a rich sense of the church history and musical history,” Finley says.

While they deliver excellent performances, the main role of Diaz and the choir is to encourage the congregation to sing.

“Why do people organize to sing? Baseball games and church. There’s been a cultural trend where people are moving more toward being consumers of music instead of creators of music,” Diaz says. “It does underline the need to inspire people to sing.”

James Diaz, the director of music at St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, conducts the choir and orchestra, and performs on the organ alongside his wife, Hyeon Jeong, who is the associate music director.

The coolness of Uncle Calvin’s

ALMOST EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT, NorthPark Presbyterian Church is empty, except for one corner of the building. Just inside the door, a blackboard displays the names of the night’s performers in multi-colored chalk it’s the only indicator you’ve arrived at a live music venue.

Friendly, bespectacled ladies greet and take cash from visitors and place it a tin box. Coffee, tea and other refreshments are for sale, including $2 slices of pie on Saran-wrapped plates. Behind a set of double doors, in the dimly lit auditorium, white-haired patrons sit at round tables covered in blue tablecloths each accented with flowers and a flickering votive candle.

For a club-goer under the age of 40, Uncle Calvin’s Coffeehouse is decidedly uncool. But then, the music starts. The acoustics fill the room, and Lisa Markley’s heartfelt jazz tune, backed by William Foley’s orchestra, draws every eye to the stage.

“It’s a listening room,” says Woody Woodward, Uncle Calvin’s “sound guy” who volunteers his talents. “People who want to have a drink and talk don’t come here.”

There’s a rich tradition behind this type of music venue — a performer-friendly space inside a church — and Uncle Calvin’s helped start it more than 30 years ago.

In 1982, as North Dallas became the center for upscale clubs, and loud, smoky bars populated Lower Greenville, the Rev. Trey Hammond of NorthPark Presbyterian saw a niche: to provide a laid-back acoustical stage free of smoke and alcohol where fans could truly appreciate the music. That year, Hammond founded Uncle Calvin’s Coffeehouse at the church, featuring unknown singer-songwriters in genres such as folk, jazz, blues, Americana and bluegrass.

“It’s a throwback to the old ’60s coffeehouses,” he says.

Historically, the venues operated on college campuses or progressive churches and created hubs for emerging artists.

One of the most notable groups to perform at Uncle Calvin’s was the original Dixie Chicks from 1989-1990. The country music band, which formed in Dallas, comprised Laura Lynch, Robin Lynn Macy and the Erwin

sisters, Martie and Emily (Lynch and Macy later left, and Natalie Maines joined Martie and Emily to form the Dixie Chicks as they’re known today). Uncle Calvin’s hosted a CD release party that drew about 400 people.

Other big-name acts who have graced the stage include the Grammy-nominated duo Trout Fishing in America, “Prairie Home Companion” regulars Robin and Linda Williams, and Ray Wylie Hubbard who noted that Uncle Calvin’s is “the only place I’ve ever played that wasn’t Godforsaken.”

NorthPark Presbyterian subsidized Uncle Calvin’s for the first eight years until the venue became self-supporting. It’s run entirely by volunteers, and all funds from ticket sales go to the performers and church mission programs, including North Dallas Shared Ministries, Vickery Meadow Learning Center and the Stewpot. The name “Uncle Calvin’s” is a playful spin on John Calvin, the 16th century leader of the Protestant Reformation in Geneva.

In the early days, the venue thrived on local music. Hammond received auditions on cassettes, vinyl and 8-track tapes. It grew from there by word of mouth, beginning with the first out-of-state performer, Tim Keller.

“He was the first performer who made us realize what we had here, and word spread to

Kerrville,” says Ed Gunsalus, Uncle Calvin’s dedicated manager who began coming to shows in 1984.

The annual Kerrville Folk Festival is the epicenter for new and established musicians from all over the country, and volunteers from Uncle Calvin’s scout the event for talent (often competition winners), bringing a little piece of Kerrville to our neighborhood on Friday nights.

While Uncle Calvin’s attracts nationally acclaimed artists, it also brings people together — often the same people week after week.

“There’s a social dimension to Uncle Calvin’s,” Hammond says. “To me, a true coffeehouse provides a place that builds community.”

Gunsalus met his wife there in 1987; they were married five months later. Ira Hantz is the unofficial photographer and still pays admission each week. Bill Nash has battled multiple sclerosis for 26 years but never misses a show. A musician himself who plays the Uncle Calvin’s stage once year, he even wrote a song about it titled, “House of Rhapsody.”

“It’s my love song about my favorite place on Friday nights,” he says.

Woodward often is the first to arrive and

“It’s a throwback to the old ’60s coffeehouses.”

Singer-songwriter Lucy Kaplansky performs during a Friday night concert at Uncle Calvin’s.

last to leave, setting up and taking down sound equipment, from 5 p.m. to midnight. He says today the core audience is not much different than it was in the beginning.

“It’s the same people only we had darker hair,” he quips. “I know our audience is aging, and we need to figure out a way to get younger people there.”

Sometimes the musical acts dictate what type of audience might turn out each week.

“When we book younger performers, we get younger audiences,” Gunsalus says. “It’s something we always work on.”

Despite its musical success and longevity, Uncle Calvin’s still is relatively obscure, hidden away inside a church, which can both help and a hinder the mission, Hammond says.

“It’s a ministry of the church for sure,” he says, adding that Uncle Calvin’s has attracted new members to NorthPark over the years. But, “It can be a threshold to cross, and people may have some anxiety that they’re going to be accosted.”

While the entertainment is familyfriendly — folk music by nature is sensitive to a broad audience — Uncle Calvin’s doesn’t proselytize. For some regular audience members, it’s the only time they come to a church.

The atmosphere may feel strange to some newcomers, but the music often transcends all of that.

“It’s an expression of deeper spiritual realities that people bring to the stage,” Hammond says. He left NorthPark after five years of leading Uncle Calvin’s and now serves at La Mesa Presbyterian Church in Albuquerque, N.M. He recalls one performance from the early years during which a Vietnam veteran sang about his experiences. The room cleared out.

“His music was like a firefight in the Vietnam jungle,” Hammond says. “It was too intense, too raw.”

Hammond encouraged the musician to keep playing anyway because a handful of volunteers were willing to listen.

“From a faith perspective, it wasn’t about making money or building a huge audience. It was about substance.”

Strength in numbers

THE SANCTUARY CHOIR at Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church is associated with some of the world’s biggest names in choral music: Bob Chilcott, Britain’s “contemporary hero” of the craft; Mack Wilberg of the acclaimed Mormon Tabernacle Choir; and the late Johnny Mann, perhaps best known in Hollywood circles for directing “Alvin and the Chipmunks” and providing the voice of Theodore.

Having performed major works under these and other guest conductors, the PHPC choir must be full of professional singers, right? Not exactly.

“The audition goes something like, ‘Are you breathing?’ ,” says Terry Price, director of music at PHPC. “If someone wants to sing for God, I’m not going to stand in their way.”

The choir comprises volunteer singers with strong choral backgrounds along with those who can barley read music, and they all come together to create a world-class sound. There are 197 members, and about 120-140 of them sing on a typical Sunday morning.

“There’s strength in numbers,” Price says.

So, how does he get such prestigious musicians to come work the PHPC choir? He just asks.

“If they have a chance to do something in a different venue in a different city, they always

enjoy that opportunity,” he says. “I’ve never been hesitant to ask.”

And sometimes, the choir goes to them. The choir has toured internationally over the years and next June, about 120 members will travel to the Coventry Cathedral in England to perform a piece written for them by the prominent British composer John Rutter.

While the choir revels in such occasions, its primary role is in Sunday worship services, performing old-fashioned church music. While most congregations move toward more contemporary styles to capture wider audiences, PHPC has seen success in resisting that trend.

“We know our identity, and we’ve stuck with it. Traditional church music goes very well with our style of service.”

And it doesn’t seem to deter younger churchgoers; about 40 percent of the congregants are under 40 years old.

Before Price arrived as music director 16 years ago, Sunday mornings were about the only times you’d see the choir perform. Now, they have three well-attended concerts a year, especially the annual Americana concert held this past June, which had standing room only.

“They have to get here early if they want a seat.”

“The audition goes something like, ‘Are you breathing?’ If someone wants to sing for God, I’m not going to stand in their way.”

At a recent service, the Preston Hollow Presbyterian sanctuary choir performs for a packed house.

A tenor’s temple

“I always liked to sing. To me, that was a natural expression.”

Itzhak Zhrebker was a child prodigy, performing his first solo with a symphony orchestra at age 6 in his hometown of Khmelnitsky, Ukraine.

“I always liked to sing,” he says. “To me, that was a natural expression.”

Religious expression, however, wasn’t so easy for a Jewish boy living under Soviet Union rule.

“I had no access to synagogue or Jewish education. I didn’t know anything about Judaism.”

He left Ukraine to pursue a musical career and discover his faith. Today, he serves as cantor at Congregation Shearith Israel, where he leads services in prayer. Since he arrived in 1996, the number of choirs at the temple has grown to include not only the adult choir but also the Ornish youth choir and the popular Kol Rina men’s a cappella group.

Easily compared to the likes of Luciano Pavarotti, Zhrebker has a full operatic voice that he has honed through years of study under other renowned cantors such as Naftali Hershtik and Louis Danto.

Zhrebker received his cantorial education from Ellie Jaffe of the Great Synagogue of Jerusalem. Among other credits, Zhrebker has performed with many operas and symphonies but felt most at home during his six years with the New Israeli Opera.

“To be an observing Jew and build a career as an opera singer, it’s very difficult as most performances are during weekends,” he says.

Zhrebker also is a conductor, composer and arranger, and has recorded albums in multiple languages. His music is integral to Shabbat services and High Holy Days at Congregation Shearith Israel, but how long will the age-old genre of opera music endure with wider, particularly younger audiences? Zhrebker isn’t worried about that; the genre’s foundation is as solid as any other. And when it comes to directing the youth choir, Zhrebker says it’s less about the music and more about helping children deepen their faith and discover their Jewish identity.

“I see it as an educational tool to teach children prayers and to express themselves freely and have a connection to the liturgical music and to their roots,” he says.

Cantor Itzhak Zhrebker of Congregation Shearith Israel is known for his operatic tenor voice.

BUSINESS BUZZ

The lowdown on what’s up with neighborhood businesses

Send business news tips to livelocal@advocatemag.com

Pure Barre coming to Preston Royal Village

National franchise Pure Barre will open a location in the vacant space next door to Royal China in Preston Royal Village this fall. Geared mostly toward women (although men are welcome), the studio mixes ballet and Pilates. As an alternative to high-impact workouts, the method tones muscle rather than bulking up, says owner Britta Lofgren, which is why it’s ideal for women.

Medical City Emergency Clinic to displace Preston Center tenants

Medical City Dallas plans to open an emergency clinic in a 10,554-square-foot space in the Currin building at Preston Center, which also houses AT&T, Wolf Camera, Spy Shop Centre, Vogue Cleaners, Tobacco Gallery, Schlotzsky’s, Travel Jewelry and Carousel Nails. Bill Archer of CASE Commercial Real Estate says the existing businesses will relocate by early next year to accommodate the new facility. Travel Jewelry already has moved to 4152 Cole, Suite 102.

More business bits

Pho Kitchen coming soon to NorthPark

Pho Kitchen will be the next new restaurant in the NorthPark food court, and it’s set to open by the end of this summer. Tuyet N. Davis serves as executive chef, bringing 30 years of culinary experience in restaurants such as Lemongrass Asian Bistro in Deep Ellum and Uptown’s East Wind. Menu items include popular Vietnamese entrée choices such as banh mi sandwiches and spring rolls, along with noodle and rice bowls, each around $10.

TJ’s prepares for its Preston-Royal debut

GET IN CONTACT

Pure Barre 6025 ROYAL, SUITE 203 PUREBARRE.COM

Travel Jewelry 4152 COLE, SUITE 102 214.369.4722

TRAVELJEWELRYINC.COM

TJ’s Seafood Market 110 PRESTON ROYAL LANE TJSSEAFOOD.COM

NorthPark Center 8687 N. CENTRAL 214.363.7441 NORTHPARKCENTER.COM

Green House Market 8687 N. CENTRAL 214.809.5977

THEGREENHOUSEMARKET.COM

Pop Star Handcrafted Popsicles

214.244.2505 FACEBOOK.COM/ POPSTARPOPSICLES

Project Pie 6030 LUTHER PROJECTPIE.COM

with expanded Sunday

Construction has begun on the new digs for TJ’s Fresh Seafood Market at Preston and Royal in the former Purple Cow space. The marketturned-full-service restaurant announced its plans back in April, shooting for a late summer/ early fall opening. In addition to the traditional market, it features a dining room that seats more than 80 people, a full liquor bar, party platters and off-site catering. The PrestonRoyal location will improve upon the Oak Lawn restaurant with an expanded menu, brunch and some non-seafood items.

1 Tesla Motors showroom in NorthPark Center opened June 20. 2 Green House Market introduced a new summer catering menu. 3 Pop Star Handcrafted Popsicles are now for sale at North Haven Gardens, just in time for the heat of summer. 4 Project Pie is slated to open in mid-August next door to Hopdoddy in Preston Center.

TJ’s Fresh Seafood Market

CLAIRE’S CHRISTIAN DAY SCHOOL

8202 Boedeker Dr., / (214) 368-4047 / clairesdayschool.com At CCDS, we encourage a child’s sense of exploration and discovery in a loving, nurturing, and safe environment. We offer a parent’s day out program with a play-based curriculum fostering socialization, motor skill development, and an introduction to academics for children aged 4mo – 3yrs. Our preschool for children aged 3-5 further develops these skills, along with a more focused approach to pre-math and prereading. At CCDS, we have developed our own science, math, and reading enrichment classes to ensure kindergarten preparedness for every child. We make learning fun!

DALLAS ACADEMY

950 Tiffany Way, Dallas 75218 / 214.324.1481 / dallas-academy.com

Founded in 1965, Dallas Academy’s mission is to restore the promise of full academic enrichment to students with learning differences in grades 1-12. A meaningful connection with each student is established to overcome barriers to success. Dallas Academy offers students an effective program and strategies to meet the special educational needs of bright students with learning differences, while including the activities of a larger, more traditional school. Classes are small, with a student-teacher ratio of 6 to 1 where students are encouraged, praised, and guided toward achieving their goals. Diagnostic testing is available to students throughout the community.

LAKEHILL PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Leading to Success. 2720 Hillside Dr., Dallas 75214 / 214.826.2931 / 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, college-preparatory 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.

OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN SCHOOL OF DALLAS

7611 Park Ln, Dallas, TX 75225 / 214368-1371, ext 238 or carolb@orlcs.com www.orlcs.com At Our Redeemer Lutheran School, your child will receive more than academic excellence and a creative, individualized approach. For over 50 years, our caring, dedicated faculty has introduced positive Christian values—giving students a solid foundation to grow in love and commitment to God, family, community and individual excellence! Our affordable tuition is possible through the loving support of our sponsor congregation, Our Redeemer Lutheran Church. Call for a private tour and see why students and their families love our school! Limited spaces available for Fall. See ad for more details.

SPANISH HOUSE

5740 Prospect Ave. & 4411 Skillman / 214-826-4410 / DallasSpanishHouse.com

Spanish House is a Spanish immersion school with two Lakewood locations for children ages 3 months - Kindergarten. We offer half-day and full-day programs, with extended care available from 7:30am - 6:00pm. We also offer after-school and Saturday classes for PK and elementary-aged students, both onand off-site. Additionally, we have an adult Spanish program for beginning, intermediate and advanced students.

ST. CHRISTOPHER’S MONTESSORI SCHOOL

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

ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

848 Harter Rd., Dallas 75218 / 214.328.9131 / 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.

THE KESSLER SCHOOL

Pre K – 6th Grade / 1215 Turner Ave, Dallas TX 75208 / 214-942-2220 / www. thekesserschool.com The Kessler School offers an innovative academic environment that gives students a solid foundation, confidence, and a love of learning. Located just minutes from downtown Dallas; The Kessler School’s mission is to “educate the whole child,” and provides an individualized approach to teaching – meeting the student where their needs are. Students are educated socially through community time, physically through daily PE, academically through a wellrounded curriculum, and spiritually through a fostering of awareness and individual growth.

WHITE ROCK NORTH SCHOOL

9727 White Rock Trail Dallas / 214.348.7410 / WhiteRockNorthSchool.com

6 Weeks through 6th Grade. Our accelerated curriculum provides opportunity for intellectual and physical development in a loving and nurturing environment. Character-building and civic responsibility are stressed. Facilities include indoor swimming pool, skating rink, updated playground, and state-of-the-art technology lab. Kids Club on the Corner provides meaningful after-school experiences. Summer Camp offers field trips, swimming, and a balance of indoor and outdoor activities designed around fun-filled themes. Accredited by SACS. Call for a tour of the campus.

WOODROW WILSON HIGH SCHOOL

100 S. Glasgow Dallas 75214 / 972-502-4400 / woodrowwildcats.org

Washington Post’s 2014 list of Most Challenging High Schools in America. A proven college preparation program and a true high school experience. Woodrow graduates attend, year after year, our state’s and country’s finest colleges, often with meaningful scholarships. With academic programs equaling the best private and magnet schools, Woodrow’s diverse student body also enjoys a traditional high school offering arts, music, dance, theater, math and science clubs, debate and writing competitions and a broad, inclusive and successful sports program, with cheerleaders and drill team. “It’s all at Woodrow and it works.”

YORKTOWN EDUCATION

5170 Village Creek Drive Plano, 75093 972-733-0800 YorktownEd.com Yorktown

Education is an independent, academically challenging private school for grades first -12. With a customized “Do What You Love” curriculum, students are educated with higher standards at earlier ages. Education is based on performance and not on age or grade levels. Yorktown graduates are in the top 1% of the country for SAT & ACT results and have a 100 percent college acceptance rate, with an average of over $100,000 in college credit and scholarships. Enrolling first through 10th grade for the 2014-2015 school year. Parent tours and student visits are available. Please visit Yorktown’s Open House at 6 p.m., October 21 to learn more about Yorktown’s unique and proven educational experience.

ZION LUTHERAN SCHOOL

of our 200,000+ readers with average income of $146,750 want more info about private schools. 69%

6121 E. Lovers Ln. Dallas / 214.363.1630 / 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.

Keep on movin’

How our neighborhood became home to a health and wellness empire

“I remember when my dad planted the crape myrtles and stocked the ponds with perch, largemouth bass and catfish that we’d fish for,” recalls Houston Nichols, the Preston Hollow resident who grew up on the property. “The pond would attract ducks that my mom loved to watch. It was a very park-like setting.”

Today, the same crape myrtles line 30 acres of what has become a global health and wellness institution: the Cooper Aerobics Center.

For 40 years, the world-renowned research lab broke new ground on the significance of aerobic exercise, and it continues to influence changes to lifestyles everywhere. The recent $8.5 million in renovations to the hotel, spa and fitness facilities also have turned the Cooper center into a full-blown health resort.

Houston has watched his childhood home live on through another man’s vision to improve the quality and length of life for its visitors. Houston himself received his first fitness exam at age 22 in what was once his parents’ bedroom.

“It was a thorough exam for the time,” he says, “and I passed.”

In the 1940s, a lone brick mansion with white pillars stood on the northeast corner of Preston and Willow, surrounded by acres of cotton fields.

Story by Whitney Thompson / Photos by Kim Leeson

Over the past four decades, the Cooper Aerobics Center has grown to become much more than an unconvential research lab.

214-368-1371 | www.orlcs.com 7611

Call for a Tour

Ages

•

PreK - 6th Grades

•

•

•

We educate the Whole child

PreK

Low Teacher Student Ratio

SACS/CASI Accredited After School Enrichment Programs

Before & After School Care

Art, Music, Library Time, Daily Spanish, Reading Lab

School Enrichment Programs

1215 Turner Ave. Dallas TX 75208

214-942-2220

Before & After School Care

Art, Music, Library Time, Daily Spanish, Reading Lab

The Kessler PumPKin PaTch anD arT Fair saT OcT 5

ITBS Test Scores in Top 2% Nationwide

A brief history

While serving as an Air Force flight surgeon in the late 1960s, Dr. Kenneth Cooper published his famous book “Aerobics,” traveling the country to promote the value of aerobics to servicemen and women.

Cooper later worked with NASA to determine the fitness of astronauts and prepare them for space travel. He invented the 12-minute and 1.5-mile treadmill stress tests and realized the larger implications of his work. So in 1970, with a 5-year-old daughter and another child on the way, Cooper resigned from the military and opened a small o ce at Preston and Northwest Highway to further explore the relationship between cardiovascular fitness and longevity.

“I was the first doctor to perform stress tests in Dallas, so people were skeptical of me at first,” Cooper says. “Some even said that the treadmill testing was going to kill people.”

A prominent neighborhood pastor at the time took the stress test, and Cooper was alarmed by the results.

“I told him that he needed to go to the hospital immediately. He didn’t believe me. Sadly, 10 days later he died from a heart attack. After that people started to take me more seriously.”

The next year, Cooper pursued the Nichols family about purchasing their property at Preston and Willow to establish a research center.

Houston’s mother, Clarice, initially turned down his request. But then she recalled his speech at a conference about cardiovascular health. Cooper’s words — and the recent and unexpected loss of her husband from heart disease at age 57 — hit a nerve.

“We all knew how much it meant to Mom,” Houston says. “Plus, Dr. Cooper’s research was not only of interest to us, but we knew that it would be good for Dallas.”

As the Dallas real estate boom spurred rapid growth in the north, the Nichols family could have made considerably more money selling to apartment and townhome developers. But Clarice chose to sell to Cooper — with the conditions that the mansion would always remain intact and that the ducks that frequented the property’s pond could stay. Cooper agreed.

A hard sell

Cooper had the Nicholses’ blessing, but the general public remained so unconvinced about the legitimacy of aerobics that no bank would approve a loan for Cooper to buy the property.

“We almost went back to the Air Force because it was so hard to secure a $1 million loan,” Cooper says. “It’s an act of God that we’re still here.”

Eventually he found a lender in a steel and pipe company, The Tyler Corporation. The benevolence so moved Cooper that he and his wife named their second child after the company.

Cooper converted the mansion into the Cooper Institute on the second floor and the Cooper Clinic on the first floor. His vision, however, extended far beyond that.

Four decades of research

It’s hard to imagine that a doctor conducting tests in an old mansion would expand his

In 1941, only the Nichols estate occupied the corner of Preston and Willow. Dr. Kenneth Cooper bought the property 30 years later: Photo provided by The Cooper Institute

research to impact a global audience, but Cooper did just that. The clinic and institute expanded into new buildings, resembling a sort of “Cooper Compound.”

In 1983 and 1987, two hotel buildings were erected to accommodate out-of-town guests traveling to the clinic for Cooper’s expertise.

“With other doctors’ treatment, it is often too little, too late,” Cooper says. “My focus with all of this is on preventing disease, and if we can’t do that, then we diagnose disease early.”

Dr. Laura DeFina, CEO of the Cooper Institute, says the Cooper Institute accomplishes this by studying information on about 110,000 patients who have visited the clinic and agreed to have their health records used for clinical research, contributing to one of the largest research databases in the world.

The Cooper Institute has used the data for roughly 600 published studies. One of those studies, published in September 2012, correlated midlife fitness with fewer incidences of chronic conditions such as heart disease, Alzheimer’s and diabetes later in life. Researchers compared treadmill stress test results of 18,670 middle-aged patients with their Medicare claims about 20 years later. Patients who performed at a higher level of fitness on the initial test had a lower incidence of Medicare claims.

“I wish that we could push a button to get people to make healthier choices and improve their quality of life,” DeFina says, “but the closest we can get to doing that is by pub-

Top: The Cooper Center began in 1971 inside the Nichols mansion pictured here a few years before Cooper bought it. Over the years, other facilities opened around it. Bottom: The original Cooper fitness center, built next to the Nichols mansion, burned down in 1981 after a laundry room fire. The place was completely rebuilt and reopened the following year: Photos provided by The Cooper Institute. Below: Cooper’s recently updated cardio equipment

lishing scientific studies that make the matter more urgent.”

An unlikely urban oasis

While Cooper Aerobics was founded on research, a new generation of leadership is helping transform the grounds into a health resort. Cooper’s son, Tyler, now president and CEO, oversaw the recent $8.5 million renovations to the hotel and fitness center, which began in 2012.

“Stress can negatively impact quality of life, so we set out to create a facility here that is peaceful,” Tyler says. “It’s quiet and serene here because of the grounds — our gym and clinic look out to either mature trees or the pond, which is lovely. But to create that high-end resort feel that is like a true getaway, it was time for a renovation.”

Because patients travel to the Cooper Clinic from all over the world to receive a comprehensive physical exam — Tyler estimates about one-third of hotel visitors are from outside of Dallas — he wanted to update each of the 61 hotel rooms.

As part of the renovation, the hotel’s conference rooms, corridors and outdoor pool area — which Mrs. Nichols’ ducks still visit on occasion — also are receiving a much-needed refresh.

Tyler says that the new fixtures were inspired by hotels in California where he and his wife vacation. He hopes the renovations will help guests unwind and relax, and attract more local travel.

“It’s a great option for people looking for accommodations in town to have a quiet ‘staycation’ without all of the stress of travel,” he says

Above: The new entrance provides access to Dallas’ first Cedars Woodfire Grill. Below: Members and the public now enjoy renovated fitness studios and a new track.

Cooper Fitness Center members also are enjoying $7.5 million worth of upgrades completed earlier this year, including new locker rooms, exercise studios and a three-lane indoor track.

Tyler set out to drive up membership, attracting a new generation of members to the workout facility.

“The women’s locker room is my wife’s baby,” Tyler says. “She worked closely with the design group to create a space so appealing that women would prefer it to getting ready at home.”

Tyler says that more renovation plans are in the works, including doubling the size of the spa at the gym. Since the completion of the fitness center updates, membership has increased by 20 percent.

An open gate

Although many of the 3,620 fitness center members have some notoriety in these parts — anchorwoman Clarice Tinsley and former President George W. Bush, along with a handful of NFL legends including Troy Aikman, Daryl Johnston and Roger

Staubach — there are plenty of ways for the rest of the community to enjoy the celebrity-worthy perks of Cooper Aerobics, even if they aren’t members of the fitness center.

Tennis classes, spa services and the restaurant, Cedars Woodfire Grill, are just a handful of Cooper’s amenities open to the community.

Tyler says the white gate surrounding the property can be a bit of an obstacle sometimes, giving the appearance of a private country club.

“Just a few weeks ago I spoke with an acquaintance that had no clue that people who aren’t a member of the fitness center can access our facilities,” Tyler says.

Additionally, the hotel hosts a number of cooking classes, health-centered weekend retreats and conferences, often used by corporate groups encouraging employee wellness. Perks for hotel guests include free access to the fitness center.

The Cooper grounds also are a popular wedding venue in the neighborhood. About 15 to 20 weddings take place under outdoor tents by the ponds annually.

Looking to the future

In March Cooper turned 83. He regularly uses the fitness center with his wife, Millie. In the early days she would joke with her husband about his energetic promotion of aerobic activity.

“Millie would say to me, ‘If you don’t stop talking about exercise, I’m going to leave you,’ ” Cooper recalls. “She still keeps me humble today by reminding me to not get carried away by my audience.”

Houston Nichols and his brother, Larry, still live in the neighborhood and continue to frequent the fitness center adjoined to their childhood home.

Houston says he is pleased with the evolution of his family’s Preston Hollow estate.

“Seeing Dr. Kenneth Cooper’s achievements confirms that our decision to sell our family property to him was the right one. And we are grateful for him fulfilling his promise to my Mom to keep the grounds and our home in their original state. And the ducks.”

LAUGH A LITTLE

How having a sense of humor improves spiritual health

Long ago, I stumbled upon a core value that may seem a bit strange but that has served me well: I trust people who have a good sense of humor, and I distrust folks who don’t.

I tend to agree with the great writer Anne Lamott, who once said, “Laughter is carbonated holiness.”

Time and time again, I have found that a person’s ability to laugh at themselves, or the world, is a key indicator of personal and spiritual health. I’m not talking about silly jokes with a rote punch line. I’m talking about the ability to find humor even when things are most serious in life.

Two small examples, from when I was a kid in Preston Hollow: The first haircut I ever remember was at the barbershop at Preston and Forest. It had that barbershop smell of powder and aftershave. But I was terrified. The idea of scissors operating near my ears had me in a tizzy.

So, the barber made a joke about trying not to cut my ears off. Somehow, I thought it was funny. And ever after, on every trip back, I willingly hopped up in the chair and said, “Be sure and don’t cut my ears off!”

I had quite a few ear problems as a child, and once I had to have minor surgery. The ear doctor was going to give me a mild anesthetic and produced a syringe and the largest needle I’d ever laid eyes on. The shot was supposed to be administered in my leg.

Perhaps because he could sense my terror, the doctor paused. And after a moment he said “Eric, I have to tell you the truth about this shot. This is going to hurt you a lot more than it’s going to hurt me.”

I burst out laughing. He plunged in the needle. It didn’t hurt a bit!

Laughter, when it comes at just the right moment, can transform a situation. It can

break the ice in a tense negotiation. It can become the spark that starts a more serious conversation.

More and more, doctors are discovering that laughter can help our blood pressure, our overall mood and our sleep. As a minister, it seems to me humor also is an indicator of spiritual health.

ANGLICAN

ALL SAINTS DALLAS / 2733 Oak Lawn / 972.755.3505

Radical Inclusivity, Profound Transformation. Come and See! 9:00 & 11:00 am Sunday Services. www.allsaintschurchdallas.org

BAPTIST

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

All services & Bible Study 9:15 & 10:45. Trad. & Blended (Sanctuary), Contemporary (Great Hall), Amigos de Dios (Gym) / 214.860.1500

PRESTONWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH / “A Church to Call Home”

Sundays: Bible Fellowship (all ages) 9:15 am /Service Time 11:00 am 12123 Hillcrest Road / 972.820.5000 / prestonwood.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

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

DISCIPLES OF CHRIST

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

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

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

MIDWAY HILLS CHRISTIAN CHURCH / 11001 Midway Road

Sundays: School for all ages 9:30 am / Worship service 10:50 am 214.352.4841 / www.midwayhills.org

METHODIST

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

Sunday Morning: 9:30 am Sunday School / 10:30 am Coffee Worship: 8:30 am & 10:50 am Traditional / 10:50 am Contemporary

UNITY

UNITY OF DALLAS / A Positive Path For Spiritual Living 6525 Forest Lane, Dallas, TX 75230 / 972.233.7106 / UnityDallas.org

So I value people who value humor. And the opposite also is true. I tend to distrust those who cannot laugh at themselves, or who rarely find anything funny. I find that overly serious people who never laugh generally don’t work well with others. My own view is that they also tend to be less compassionate of both themselves and others.

Because if you can laugh at your own circumstance, then you can be compassionate toward yourself, too. And if you can laugh with (not at) others, you’re more likely to love and support them. Perhaps that’s why the great Protestant theologian Karl Barth once said, “Laughter is the closest thing to the grace of God.”

So, take life seriously, because life is serious business.

But don’t forget to laugh.

Sunday Services: 9:00 am & 11:00 am

Laughter, when it comes at just the right moment, can transform a situation. It can break the ice in a tense negotiation. It can become the spark that starts a more serious conversation.

Eric Folkerth is senior pastor of Northaven United Methodist Church (northaven.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.

Downward dog

The Jewish Community Center last month hosted a free dog yoga session, or “doga” in which owners connect with their canine companions through yoga postures.

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

Local BULLETIN BOARD

EVENTS

DALLAS ELKS LADIES’ GARAGE/CRAFT SALE

Sat, Sept 6th. 8am-2pm. 8550 Lullwater Dr. 50 + Families Participate. Cofee Bar / Food Court. Much More.

HIGHLANDETTES ANNUAL FAMILY GARAGE SALE

LHHS Gym. 9449 Church Rd. Sat, August 23 @ 8am-2pm. Furniture, Electronics, Clothes, Toys, Housewares, etc!

CLASSES/TUTORING/ LESSONS

ALL AGES: LEARN PIANO WITH WADE COTTINGHAM LakewoodPianoLab.com Since 1998. 214-564-6456

ART: Draw/Paint. Adults All Levels. Lake Highlands N. Rec. Ctr. Yearly fee. 18-59 yrs-$15, 60+$10 Mon-1-3: Wed 10:15-1:15, Jane Cross, 214-534-6829.

ARTISTIC GATHERINGS

Casa Linda Plaza. Art Classes & Drop In Pottery Painting For All Ages. 214-821-8383. Tues-Sat 10am-6pm

GUITAR OR PIANO Fun/Easy. Your Home. 11 Yrs Exp. Reasonable rates. UNT Grad. Larry 469-358-8784

LEARN NEW TESTAMENT GREEK

Beginners intermediates; Rice, TCU, DTS ex; John Cunyus 214-662-5494 www.JohnCunyus.com

MUSIC INSTRUCTION Especially For Young People Aged 5-12. Guitar, Piano, Percussion. ChildPlayMusicSchool.com. 214-733-1866

TUTORING: Writing coach. Manuscript Editor. 20+ years exp. 469-263-7004

American spirit

Neighbors of all ages came decked out in their best red, white and blue outfits for the Hillcrest Forest Neighborhood Association’s annual Fourth of July parade, with the perimeter of Arthur Kramer Elementary School serving as the parade route.

CLASSES/TUTORING/ LESSONS

Learn to draw this summer with Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain ®

Classes now offered in Dallas

Visit our website for location and registration info

www.PerceptionDrawing.com

Brenda Catlett Certified Instructor (972)989-0546

CHILDCARE

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

EMPLOYMENT

AIRLINE CAREERS Begin Here. Get Trained As FAA Certified Aviation Technician. Financial Aid For Qualified Students. Housing & Job Placement Assistance. AIM 866-453-6204

PET SITTERS, DOG WALKERS Email Recruiting@pcpsi.com

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

DISH TV RETAILER Starting at $19.99/month (for 12 months) & High Speed Internet starting at $14.95/month (where available) Save. Ask about Same Day Installation 1-800-615-4064

GRAPHIC DESIGN BY SOZA DESIGN Logos, Brochures, Posters & More. wsoza@yahoo.com 214-287-6499

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

A WILL? THERE IS A WAY Estate/Probate Matters-Free Consultation. 214-802-6768 MaryGlennAttorney.com

ACCOUNTANT/BOOKKEEPER 20+ years professional exp. Visit my web site rcp.spectangular.net or call 214-699-0499

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. Bookkeeping Services. Cindy 214-821-6903

FARMERS INSURANCE CALL JOSH JORDAN 214-364-8280. Auto, Home, Life Renters.

The real ‘Argo’

Tony and Jonna Mendez recently spoke to residents at Edgemere Senior Living about their experiences as intelligence officers. Jonna spent 27 years in the field and earned the CIA’s Intelligence Commendation Medal. Tony received the Intelligence Star of Valor for his involvement in the rescue of six U.S. diplomats in Iran, the event on which the Oscar-winning film “Argo” is based. Pictured left to right: Jonna Mendez, Caroline Pratt, Aileen Pratt and Tony Mendez

Local Resources

TO ADVERTISE 214.560.4203

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

OSTEOPATHY—CRANIAL OSTEOPATH For structural or internal problems, head & body, newborn, young child, all ages. Liz Chapek, D.O. 214-341-8742. www.chapek.doctorsoffice.net

PROFESSIONAL PERSONAL TRAINING To Suit Your Specific Training Needs.Terry 214-206-7823. terryrjacobs@outlook.com

REED & RIORDAN PLLC Dallas Family Law Attorneys 10000 N Central Expy Dallas. 214-570-9555 reedriordan.com

‘Breaking Science; Breaking Silence’

Marion and Jim Moore, Susan Carter (CEO of Arthritis Foundation’s South Central Region) and Dr. John Hardin attended a VIP reception benefiting the Arthritis Foundation, at Marion and Jim’s Preston Hollow estate. The event featured a presentation by Hardin, the foundation’s vice president of research.

Local BULLETIN BOARD

PET SERVICES

DEE’S DOGGIE DEN Daycare, Boarding, Grooming, Training. 6444 E. Mockingbird Ln. 214-823-1441 DeesDoggieDen.com

HOMEGROWN HOUNDS DOG DELI / BAKERY Healthy homemade dog food / treats. 100% goes to rescue.hghdogs.com

POOP SCOOP PROFESSIONALS Trust The Experts. 214-826-5009. germaine_free@yahoo.com

SKILLMAN ANIMAL CLINIC Is Your Friendly, Personal, Affordable Vet. 9661 Audelia Rd. #340. 214-341-6400

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

TRAVEL

CRUISEONE DALLAS Doug Thompson bigDcruises.com

Plan your cruise vacation today! 214-254-4980

JOURNEY WITH JANE for a unique travel experience. Travel dreams become reality. 469-662-5212. journeywithjane.com

BUY/SELL/TRADE

GROUND FLOOR BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Unique Opportunity for Residual Income. A Legacy Company Which Affords You and Your Family Guaranteed Income. 401-741-7596 healthandwealthct@gmail.com

BUY/SELL/TRADE

TEXAS RANGERS AND DALLAS STARS front row seats. Share prime, front-row Texas Rangers and Dallas Stars tickets (available in sets of 10 games). Prices start at $105 per ticket (sets of 2 or 4 tickets per game available) Seats are behind the plate and next to the dugouts for the Rangers: seats are on the glass and on the Platinum Level for the Stars. Other great seats available starting at $60 per ticket. Entire season available except for opening game; participants randomly draw numbers prior to the season to determine a draft order fair for everyone. Call 214-560-4212 or rwamre@advocatemag.com

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

ESTATE/GARAGE SALES

CLUTTERBLASTERS.COM-ESTATE SALES

Moving/DownSizing Sales, Storage Units.

Organize/De-Clutter Donna 972-679-3100

ESTATE LIQUIDATORS DALLAS Prof service since 1981 Call Ruth. 972-818-3000. 214-566-3861 estateliquidatorsdallas@yahoo.com

ESTATE SALES & LIQUIDATION SERVICES

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

All Makes/Models. 214-660-8898

972-523-3996

WWW.AROTX.COM

We at AROTX repair all major appliances Visit our website or call us WE DO SAME DAY SERVICE

CARPENTRY & REMODELING

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

KITCHEN AND BATHROOM SPECIALISTS

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

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

RENOVATE DALLAS

renovatedallas.org 214-403-7247

TK REMODELING 972-533-2872 Complete Full Service Repairs, Remodeling, Restoration. Name It- We do it. Tommy. insured. http://dallas. tkremodelingcontractors.com

BRIAN GREAM

CLEANING SERVICES

Serving your Neighborhood Since 1993

Repairing: Refrigerators •Washer/Dryers

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

BLINDS, SHADES & DRAPERIES

SMARTLOOKS WINDOW & WALL DECOR

Window Treatments & Repair. 972-699-1151

CABINETRY & FURNITURE

SQUARE NAIL WOODWORKING

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

THE CABINET CONCIERGE

The Art of Storage. Call 214-821-5900

Email jin@thecabinetconcierge.com

CARPENTRY & REMODELING

ATLANTIS DESIGN-BUILD, LLC

Complete Remodeling. 40 Yrs Exp. Additions. 1 & 2 Story. Kitchens, Baths.

Small Jobs To Entire House.

Renovation & Design. Full Time Supervision.

Licensed/Insured. Free Estimates. 281-761-4648

BO HANDYMAN Specializing In Historic Home

Renovations & Pro Remodels. Custom Carpentry, Doors, Kitchens, Baths & more. 214-437-9730

CUSTOM CARPENTRY BY RON 214-674-1604

Trim Specialist - Mouldings, Cabinets, Hardware. Misc. Projects & Repairs. No Job Too Small

TK Remodeling

Your neighborhood remodeler

•Repair •Remodeling •Restoration

•Complete full service

Name it— We do it

http://dallas.tkremodelingcontractors.com

Tommy 972-533-2872 INSURED

Unique Home Construction

- Design, Build, Remodel

- Kitchens & Baths - New Construction or Additions Many references available - Licensed, Insured, Member of BBB www.uniquehomebuild.com 214.533.0716

CLEANING SERVICES

AMAZON CLEANING

Top To Bottom Clean. Fabiana.469-951-2948

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

INGRID CLEANING SERVICES Reliable, Dependable. Habla Español 214-395-1190

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

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

WANTED: HOUSES TO CLEAN 20 yrs. exp., Reliable, Great Prices, Excellent Refs., Free Ests. No Crews. Non-Corporate. Sunny 214-724-2555

WINDOW MAN WINDOW CLEANING.COM

Residential Specialists. BBB. 214-718-3134

YOU HAVE IT MAID SERVICES 972-859-0287 bonded/insured. Youhaveitmaidservices.com

COMPUTERS & ELECTRONICS

ALL COMPUTER PROBLEMS SOLVED

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

BILL’S COMPUTER REPAIR

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

IT SOLUTIONS/SUPPORT For Home & Small Business. Parental Controls Speciality. 8 Yrs Exp. Husband & Wife,Licensed Minister called to His Work. Texas Tech Guru. 214-850-2669

CONCRETE/ MASONRY/PAVING

BRICK & STONE REPAIR

Don 214-704-1722

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

BRICK, STONEWORK, FLAGSTONE PATIOS Mortar Repair. Call George 214-498-2128

CONCRETE REPAIRS/REPOURS

Demo existing. Stamping and Staining Driveways/Patio/Walkways

Pattern/Color available Free Estimates

972-672-5359 (32 yrs.)

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

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

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

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

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 214560-4203. Advocate Publishing recommends that you ask for and check references from each Advertiser that you contact, and we recommend that you obtain a written statement of work to be completed, and the price to be charged, prior to approving any work or providing an Advertiser with any deposit for work to be completed.

Business Resources

TO ADVERTISE 214.560.4203

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

4 U ELECTRICAL SERVICE, LLC

We will be there 4 U. 972-877-4183

ANTHONY’S ELECTRIC Master Electrician. TECL24948 anthonyselectricofdallas.com

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

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

GOVER ELECTRIC Back Up Generators. New and Remodel Work. Commercial & Residential. All Service Work. 469-230-7438. TECL2293

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

TEXAS ELECTRICAL • 214-289-0639

Honest, Quality. TECL 24668 CCs accepted.

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

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

EXTERIOR CLEANING

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

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.

AMBASSADOR FENCE INC.

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

HANNAWOODWORKS.COM Decks,Doors, Carpentry, Remodeling 214-435-9574

KIRKWOOD FENCE & DECK

New & Repair. Free Estimates.

Nathan Kirkwood. 214-341-0699

LONESTARDECKS.COM 214-357-3975

Trex Decking & Fencing, trex.com

All Wood Decks, Arbors & Patio Covers

EST. 1991 #1

COWBOY

FENCE & IRON CO.

214.692.1991

SPECIALIZING IN Wood Fences &Auto Gates

cowboyfenceandiron.com

FIREPLACE SERVICES

CHIMNEY SWEEP Dampers/Brick & Stone

Repair. DFW Metro. Don 214-704-1722

FLOORING & CARPETING

ALL WALKS OF FLOORS 214-616-7641

Carpet, Wood, Tile Sales/Service Free Estimates

CLIFTON CARPETS 214-526-7405 www.cliftoncarpets.com

DALLAS HARDWOODS 214-724-0936

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

FLOORING & CARPETING

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

N-HANCE WOOD RENEWAL. No Dust. No Mess. No Odor. nhance.com. 214-321-3012.

WILLEFORD HARDWOOD FLOORS 214-824-1166 • WillefordHardwoodFloors.com

Restoration Flooring

HANDYMAN SERVICES

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

WANTED: ODD JOBS & TO DO LISTS

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

Your Home Repair Specialists

HOUSE PAINTING BRIAN GREAM

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

25+ Years Experience

469.774.3147

Hardwood Installation · Hand Scraping Sand & Finish · Dustless restorationflooring.net

FOUNDATION REPAIR

• Slabs • Pier & Beam

• Mud Jacking • Drainage

• Free Estimates

• Over 20 Years Exp. 972-288-3797

We Answer Our Phones

GARAGE DOORS

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

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

GLASS, WINDOWS & DOORS

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

DOVETAIL CUSTOM SHUTTERS Louis Wiggins 214-342-0889 dovetailshutters.com

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

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

HANDYMAN SERVICES

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

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

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

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

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

HOME INSPECTION

INTERIOR DESIGN

WALLPAPER AND MORE

Serving Lakewood For Over 15 Years. Upholstery, Custom Draperies & Shutters. References Available Upon Request. 214-718-7281

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

A1 TOP COAT Professional. Reliable. References. TopCoatOfTexas.com 214-770-2863

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

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

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

MANNY’S HOME PAINTING & REPAIR Int./Ext. Sheetrock. Manny 214-334-2160

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

ROMEO’S PAINTING Int/Ext. Drywall, Damage Repair. Prep House To Sell. 214-789-0803

TONY’S PAINTING SERVICE Quality Work

Since 1984. INT/EXT 214-755-2700

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

KITCHEN/BATH/ TILE/GROUT

ALL SURFACE REFINISHING 214-631-8719. Tub/Tile/Refinishing. allsurfacerefinishing.com

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

FENN CONSTRUCTION Any Tile Anywhere. www.dallastileman.com Back Splash Specials! 214-343-4645

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

STONE AGE COUNTER TOPS Granite, Marble, Tile, Kitchen/Bath Remodels. 972-276-9943 stoneage.dennis@verizon.net

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

LAWNS, GARDENS & TREES

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

A BETTER TREE MAN Trims, Removals, Insd. 12 Yrs Exp. Roberts Tree Service. 214-808-8925

A&B LANDSCAPING Full Landscape & Lawn Care Services. Degreed Horticulturist. 214-534-3816

LAWNS, GARDENS & TREES

ALL YARD SERVICES Fertilization, Trim, Edge, Color. Com./ Res. 30 Yrs. Exp. Call Brooks. 972-279-3564, 214-923-5439

AYALA’S LANDSCAPING SERVICE

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

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

FOREVERLAWNTEXAS.COM George Berre. Quality Synthetic Grass, Free Est. 214-263-0828

GREENSKEEPER Winter 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

IRRIGATION SYSTEM REPAIR Call Carl. 972-948-4335.Texas Irrigation Lic # 8708

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

RED SUN LANDSCAPES • 214-935-9779 RedSunLandscapes.com

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

SPRINKLER REPAIR SPECIALIST $25Off. 972-226-1925 www.rainmakertx.com LI#7732

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

THE POND MAN Water Gardens

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

TRACY’S LAWN CARE • 972-329-4190

Lawn Mowing & Leaf Cleaning

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

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

PEST CONTROL

A BETTER EARTH PEST CONTROL

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

McDANIEL PEST CONTROL

Prices Start at $85 +Tax for General Treatment

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

214-328-2847

Lakewood Resident

PLUMBING

A2Z PLUMBING 214-727-4040

All Plumbing Repairs. Slab Leak Specialists. Licensed & Insured. ML# M36843.

ANDREWS PLUMBING • 214-354-8521

# M37740 Insured. Any plumbing issues. plumberiffic69@gmail.com

Sewers • Drains • Bonded 24 Hours/7 Days

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

ARRIAGA PLUMBING:

Faucet, Sewer, Sink Repairs. Water Leaks. Water Heaters, Gas Testing. Remodels, Shower Pans, Stoppages. Insured. Lic 20754. Since the 80’s 214-321-0589, 214-738-7116,CC’s Accptd

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

JUSTIN’S PLUMBING SERVICE

For All Your Plumbing Needs. ml#M24406 972-523-1336. www.justinsplumbing.com

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

NTX PLUMBING SPEC. LLLP 214-226-0913

Lic. M-40581 Res/Com. Repairs & Leak Location

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

SPECK PLUMBING

Over 30 Yrs Exp. Licensed/Insured. 214-732-4769, 214-562-2360

POOLS

ADAIR POOL & SPA SERVICE

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

LEAFCHASERS POOLS

Parts and Service. Chemicals and Repairs. Jonathan. 214-729-3311

LOCK’S POOL SERVICE - 469-235-2072

40 years experience. Pool Electrical TICL #550

ROOFING & GUTTERS

A&B GUTTER 972-530-5699

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

ACE ROOFING

Roof Repair Specialist. Call Tom. 972-268-4047

MEDRANO ROOFING Resd/Comm. Quality Service & Craftsmanship. Free Est. 469-867-2129

ROOFING

Q&A: Beverly Houston

Hillcrest East Neighborhood Association crime watch coordinator

True Crime spoke with Hillcrest East Neighborhood Association crime watch coordinator Beverly Houston about the group and crime in the area.

Have there been any major crimes or incidents in the area recently?

Recently a burglar entered and exited through a back bedroom window without setting off the alarm. People need to check into updating their alarms so that glass breakage or motion sets it off — especially in the master bedroom.

At 3 p.m. on July 7, an intruder came from the alley and broke a small glass window on a back door. He tried to open the door from the inside when the resident interrupted him. The suspect was a black male about 5 feet, 6 or 7 inches tall with straightened but somewhat frizzy hair about an inch above the shoulder. He appeared to be about 25-30 years old with a stocky build. He exited into the alley, where someone was waiting in a getaway car.

What is a recent success story?

Recently, our paid police patrol stopped two suspicious fellows walking after midnight with a backpack, gloves, and a checkbook that didn’t belong to them. Careful follow-up in the next couple of weeks led to a drug arrest and increased surveillance of a house in the neighborhood of a friend they often visit.

What are some more regular concerns residents have noticed in recent weeks?

Especially during vacation time and summer weekends when people tend to travel, it is good to keep an eye out for your neighbors’ homes by being alert to strange or suspicious-acting people.

Dallas police officer Randy Turner, who visited with neighbors during the Hillcrest Forest Neighborhood Association Fourth of July Parade, said he has made many arrests in response to 911 calls. Officers are happy to check suspicious people out

leave it to them. So when in doubt, call 911. It doesn’t have to be a surefire emergency or crime in progress. Why is a neighborhood watch so important?

A neighborhood watch is important because only an alert neighbor knows what is normal or not. I emphasize “alert.” Imagine if all the joggers, dog walkers and parents running errands kept a watchful, alert eye out. Perhaps they might stop many crimes in progress by calling 911. Many crimes occur in broad daylight.

How can residents get involved?

Residents can be involved by taking the VIP [Volunteers in Patrol] course offered about once a month at the North Central Police Station. This teaches neighbors how to be more discerning. It also qualifies them to make a monthly patrol of the neighborhood with another VIP if they would like to.

Residents of the four crime watches in our area [Hillcrest East, Kramer, Hill Haven and Park Central] can also contribute toward the daily paid police patrol for only $120 per year, which we figure has already decreased crime in our area by 20 percent in the last two years. Residents can also call their volunteer crime watch captain and ask if there are any administrative tasks they could help with — mailing lists must be updated occasionally. Anything else to add?

This isn’t the ’50s. Lock your doors and set alarms every time you leave the house. Don’t leave attractive items in a car, locked or unlocked. Better yet, park in your garage if you have one. Don’t open your door to strangers, but do let them know you are there! Let them know by responding loudly, “sorry, not interested” through the closed door or front window. I have received many reports of people who ignored solicitors, only to see them five minutes later trying to enter their back patio door.

Development

Unity Church of Dallas sold four acres of its 11acre property at Forest and Creekway Drive to raise capital for church renovations. The property will be developed into 18 custom home sites in a gated community, 6600 Forest Estates. Back in January, the city plan commission approved plans for the community, and a month later, the city council OK’d the re-zoning. The property is under contract with local developer Charles Hicks. His company, Hicks III Investments, has pre-sold all the lots to a custom homebuilder.

Education

The Lamplighter Elementary School Parents Association and school representatives recently delivered more than 4,000 books to students at Sudie Williams Elementary and Walnut Hill Elementary. Lamplighter held a book drive this spring through its partnership with Commit!, an organization that aims to improve Dallas ISD literacy rates.

Gooch Elementary made strides on the 2013-14 STAAR test compared to last year, improving scores by 19 percent in overall reading, 17 percent in math, 15 percent in science and 51 percent in writing. Gooch’s new principal, Martha Bujanda, helped establish a new focus on a “college-going culture” at the elementary level, implementing higher standards for students. PTA President Danae Gutierrez has also helped revitalize the PTA at Gooch, which now boasts 50 members.

Volunteer

Change lives by volunteering one day a week to teach English to non-English speaking adults at Vickery Meadows Learning Center. Morning, afternoon and evening volunteer teachers are needed for the 12-week fall session beginning in September. Mentors, computer lab aides, office help and special events volunteer positions also are available. To learn more or RSVP for orientation, held Aug. 19 or Aug. 21, contact program director Liz Harling at lharling@vmlc. org or 214.265.5057, ext. 102.

People

Preston Hollow neighbor Karee Sampson was named to the board of directors for the Arthritis Foundation’s south central region. Sampson is involved with several non-profit organizations, including Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Children’s Medical Center Dallas, Educational First Steps and Community Partners of Dallas.

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