EMBRACE RETIREMENT WITH PEACE, BEAUTY AND A PLACE TO RELAX!
Moving to a senior community can be intimidating. Juliette Fowler makes the transition easy.
WHEN IT COMES TO SENIOR LIVING, it’s natural to fear change when pondering life anywhere other than “home.”
Many older adults and their loved ones are nervous when considering the decision to move.
And the concerns are valid: How do I choose the right place? What if my friends and family forget to visit me? Will I get to continue the activities I love? Does this mean I’m OLD?
When a person either senses the need to move from home, or when loved ones observe a need for more care, an ominous cloud of foreboding often hovers over the entire family.
That’s why many senior shoppers are surprised, relieved and grateful to discover Juliette Fowler Communities, conveniently located centrally in our neighborhood so older adults don’t have to leave “home” to live better.
Nicole Gann, Fowler’s chief executive officer, says new Fowler residents quickly realize the pulse is different when they move in: At Fowler, seniors are “seen,” appreciated and have purpose.
“On our campus, our residents make instant friends among neighbors and staff. They discover endless activities, including volunteer opportunities both onsite and nearby, such as with elementary school partnerships, access to cultural events, and plenty of retail options nearby.
“Many new residents are stunned at how vibrant life is here at Fowler,” Gann says.
For example, Fowler has dedicated walking paths on its 22 acres in the heart of our neighborhood. Also, the Santa Fe Trail runs along the property, enabling residents to easily exercise along its pathways while walking through neighborhoods they already know and love, Gann says.
CELEBRATING
Additionally, Willis Winters Park borders the Fowler campus. Through a partnership with the Dallas Parks and Recreation Department and Friends of Willis Winters Park, Fowler residents can play pickleball and access workout pads and other amenities in this safety-first, well-lit and ADA-compliant park.
Gann says. “Our residents can be as busy as they want or enjoy rest and relaxation as they please. Life is easy, and there is more time for the people and activities they love.
“Juliette Fowler is a little town in a big city; residents can venture out to neighborhood events, arts and dining excursions, then jump back to the nest.”
Residents’ families are part of the Fowler community, too.
“Solo agers” — those with no family nearby — are included and embraced by staff, Gann says.
The bottom line at Fowler?
“You belong; this is a place of purpose,” Gann says. Tired of worrying about senior living decisions?
“Living here is like living on a cruise ship,”
Ease your mind by visiting Fowlercommunities.org today and call 214-827-0813 to take a free campus tour.
We’re going nowhere.
We are here. Because you are here. And we’ve been together — you and us — since 1960. That’s right. For 65 years and counting, we’ve connected you, your friends and your families to your neighborhoods’ greatest homes. And to ranches, farms and land. And high-rises. And town houses. All the houses. It’s like this: Because we’re from Here — and not from There — we know what North Texans love. And what the newest North Texans will love, once they move here. Our passionate and professional real estate advisors are regarded as the best in the business, even by their competitors. They have the awards to prove it. And the track records. And the love letters. We back those advisors with game-changing tech, a management team that supports them in every way and an in-house team of marketing pros who can’t wait to help tell great stories. No one has our magic mix. And it doesn’t stop there. We are a proud member of the superb Sotheby’s International Realty ® network. That means more than 26,000 agents in more than 80 countries and territories, all helping each other — to help you. No other brokerages can compare. But, oh, they try to. They say that Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty is too small, too set in our honorable ways, too consistent, too optimistic, too detail-focused, too diligent, even too nice. (Too nice!) You know what? We are. We’re all the things. We own it. So that you can own it. And in 65 years and counting, no disruptors have disrupted us. No venture capitalists have capsized us. Try again, outsiders. We’re just too grounded. Our advisors are just too trusted. And we love honoring the promises we make to them and to you. That’s right. We’re not going anywhere. We are here. Because you are here.
Let’s Build Something Beautiful Together
Dreaming of a stunning kitchen or bath makeover?
Whether it’s a quick refresh or a full transformation, HG&Co is here to bring your vision to life!
“THAT BATHROOM’S GOTTA GO. And the kitchen … I can’t take it anymore, it’s depressing.”
Ever had those thoughts?
For those who have been putting off a kitchen, bathroom or full home renovation.
Spring is the perfect time to pull the trigger, and doing business with the neighborhood pros at HG&Co is the smart approach to making the process for a home renovation as seamless as possible.
Owner and CEO Herman Guerra says the team at HG&Co personalizes the home improvement experience and streamlines the process at its boutique-space design center near the Arboretum.
Guerra’s team delivers a one-stop package: custom designs, retail selections and construction. And if you like staying informed, HG&Co utilizes a project management system to enhance the Client experience.
While Guerra says kitchens and baths are most popular, HG&Co specializes in everything home-related, including exterior services such as pergolas and decking, fencing and siding, outdoor kitchens, patios and patio covers.
Need ADU space? HG&Co often designs and builds Accessory Dwelling Units such as in-law suites or other additional living space for extended family and guests.
Guerra says all providers in the home improvement industry are not created equal, and that’s what sets HG&Co apart from other vendors.
Guerra’s full service, design-to-build company is certified with the Dallas Builders Association, Texas Association of Builders and the National Association of Builders.
And doing business with a neighborhood home improvement group provides an extra layer of comfort for homeowners who choose HG&Co for their home project.
Guerra cites the company mission statement in its commitment to bringing clients’ dreams to life: “Our vision is to redefine residential living through premium craftsmanship, innovative design and an unwavering commitment to our clients.”
His says his team combines personalized design with quality building. We are always seeking to be better. We thrive on providing our Clients an authentic and positive through the design build process.
Just looking for ideas?
Visit HG&Co’s neighborhood retail store for a betweenproject pick-me-up and room facelifts. You’ll also find custom cabinetry, engineered hardwood, plumbing fixtures, tile, mirrors and lighting.
HG&Co’s retail center also carries heavy-hitting brands including, but not limited to, Porcelanosa, Arizona Tile, Kohler, Brizo, Emser, Bedrosians and Adleta Flooring.
HG&Co likes to say, “Let’s Build Something Beautiful Together.” Take your projects off the back-burner by calling HG&Co today, 214-660-7663, and stop by its design center, 9019 Garland Road. You can also visit HGCompany.net and contact Guerra directly at herman@hgcompany.net.
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Advocate (c) 2025 is published monthly in print and daily online by Advocate Media - Dallas Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation based in Dallas and first published in 1991. Contents of this print magazine may not be reproduced. Advertisers and advertising agencies assume liability for the content of all advertisements and sponsorships printed, and therefore assume responsibility for any and all claims against the Advocate. The Publisher reserves the right to accept or reject ay editorial, advertising or sponsorship material in print or online. Opinions set forth in Advocate publications are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the Publisher’s viewpoint. More than 180,000 people read Advocate publications in print each month; Advocate online publications receive more than 4 million pageviews monthly. Advertising rates and guidelines are available upon request. Advocate print and online publications are available free of charge throughout our neighborhoods, one print copy per reader. For information about supporting our non-profit mission of providing local news to neighborhood readers, please call 214-560-4216 or email aquintero@advocatemag.com.
ABOUT THE COVER
Located on the side of the Whiskers and Soda building, on Garland Road. The mural was made by J. Michael Stovall & Kealy Rocca in the summer of 2023. Photography by Austin Gibbs.
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In your neighborhood, you need a proven professional to help you find what you’re looking for. As Dallas’ experts on our city’s close-in communities, no one gets Lakewood/East Dallas quite like the pros at David Griffin & Company. Buying? Selling? Call us at 214.526.5626 or visit davidgriffin.com.
What service looks like
Neighbor Pam Karlos has given 40 years of service to White Rock YMCA
Story by AYSIA LANE
Pam Karlos served on the White Rock YMCA board for over 40 years before retiring at the end of 2024. But her time at the Y started long before she served on the board, and her story in our neighborhood is not over yet. We sat down with her to learn more about her YMCA journey.
WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST INTERACTION AT YMCA?
When I was 10 years old, with a single mom, I spent many summer days riding my bike from Lemmon and Inwood to the Y on Preston Road — long before it was the Park Cities Y or Moody Y.
In the 1970s, our family got involved with the East Dallas Y, on Worth Street. It was a classic old beautiful home with good bones but small facilities. Our son and other kids took swimming lessons in pools volunteered by neighbors. As our family grew, my husband and I did some amateur coaching in soccer, baseball and basketball. Tragically, my husband died in 1983. The Y was there for us in so many ways.
WHEN DID YOU OFFICIALLY JOIN THE BOARD?
In 1985, I was asked to join the Y board.
HOW DID YOU WATCH THE WHITE ROCK YMCA TRANSFORM INTO WHAT IT IS TODAY?
We had outgrown the house Y during my term, and we worked hard to raise funds and find a new location. We settled on the 'Warehouse Y,' as I called it. Now, the property houses Ale House and Ace Hardware. With creative ideas, we took the large empty space and developed an exercise space, dance classes, a basketball court, a wheelchair basketball league and Bishop Lynch held their wrestling practices there. Richard Vitale — board president at the time — recruited East Dallas lawyers, bankers and architects to join the board.
We built a pool and got the City to build a bridge connection to White Rock Lake. Lincoln Property decided to sell the property and literally moved us across Gaston to the upper-level shopping center. We were now the Window Y, as I call it. Lincoln Property paid our rent. Not ideal, but there was an energetic workout area and a couple of classrooms.
With more diligent work and prayer, we were able to buy the vacating Lutheran Church, down the street, and build our
current White Rock Y. None of this would have happened if this community had not opened their hearts and pocketbooks.
WHAT KEPT YOU SERVING THE YMCA FOR ALL THOSE YEARS?
It should be obvious why I stayed 40 years. I take with me great memories. A huge thank you to the Y staff — which I've seen turn over many times over the years. Always, I saw bright energetic people moving on to further their careers, taking with them the qualities of the Y to share with others. I look forward to doing the same. The Y can still count on me for some volunteering and support.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU?
We’ve put five children through Woodrow Wilson High School. I have moved on to another board, the Woodrow Wilson Community Foundation. It’s a whole different kind of commitment. Part of my job is taking teachers’ wish lists and figuring out what needs we can meet for them in a scholarship form.
This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.
Photo courtey of Pam Karlos.
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Yardstick Opening Soon
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Taking the reins
Meet the neighbor taking over Our Friends Place Story by AYSIA LANE
HELENA BANKS HAS LIVED IN SEVERAL PLACES ACROSS THE DALLAS-FORT WORTH AREA IN HER LIFETIME, BUT FOR HER, NOTHING COMPARES TO HER TIME IN EAST DALLAS. She’s made a home here and believes those around her are the most “neighborly of neighbors.”
“This is our little community,” she says. “I live, work and play inside of Loop 12.”
Banks has earned her stripes as a nonprofit veteran, starting at KERA as the major gifts coordinator and then joining the American Heart Association as the major gifts adviser. Most recently, she's served as
Photo by Tyson Pough.
the Director of Development and external affairs at Bonton Farms. She clearly remembers the moment she knew this would be her career path.
“I took one of those weird tests in like seventh grade where it said, ‘What are you gonna be when you grow up?’” Banks says.
The results came in. She was bound to become either a congressperson or work for a nonprofit agency.
"I took that very seriously. It's what I always wanted to do,” she says.
Her pursuit of nonprofit work, and a knack for fundraising she discovered during her college years, has led her to Our Friends Place.
The organization started in 1987 and aims to help young women dealing with abuse, neglect, poverty or homelessness. Its program requires residents to enroll in an education or vocational program, while working a job. Their earnings are used partly as rent and the rest is used to build savings. All of this takes place while they attend weekly sessions about life and job skills.
Banks took over as the CEO of Our Friends Place following the 30-year tenure of former Executive Director Sue Theirs Hesseltine.
“I knew from the beginning that I wanted my resume to reflect my values,” she says. “My passions are women and girls, the arts and the animals of course — but primarily, I want to be a helper.”
As she settles into the new role, receiving guidance and insight from Hesseltine, she’s clear on what path she wants to take at Our Friends Place.
“My goal is to strengthen Our Friends Place’s fundraising capacity and administrative infrastructure,” she says. “To enhance and expand the delivery of essential programs and homelessness prevention services.”
BECOMING the process of
Inside the creation of DIAZ Ad Group’s newest passion project
Story by AYSIA LANE
days, 14 creatives and a seven-year anniversary. That’s what it took to create BECOMING . The passion project began as a simple idea in the summer of 2024 at the DIAZ Ad Group. It would eventually become a visual narrative made in collaboration with American photograher Alicia Stepp.
DIAZ has been on Greenville Avenue for almost five years. In that time, they have cultivated a small but mighty army of creatives that execute branding, advertising and marketing services across various mediums including photography and video.
While the army has their marching orders, creating on behalf of their clients, they occasionally march to a different tune. Coming up on their seven-year anniversary, the group was on the brink of a new project. While they didn’t know exactly what it would be called at the time, they knew it had to be representative of this period of growth and evolution they had gone through to get to this point. It would be called BECOMING.
“We obviously have our own clients that we cater to,” Head of Production Marcos Celis says. “This was definitely more of a passion project for us — it wasn’t necessarily something that someone was paying us to do. We wanted to just be creative, gather a lot of local creatives that are extremely talented to us and just create something different, create something amazing that we’re all passionate about.”
The team describes the piece as an ode to their journey of “stepping fearlessly into the unknown,” while highlighting fashion and creativity in the process.
“There was a need to stand back and to really see, ‘What is the vision going forward in this next year? What does the future look like? What is the future we want to be part of, and how do we craft that?’ And then it became this larger picture of, ‘How do we craft this future that becomes so desirable that we just can’t ignore it? How do we partner with other creatives to help us bring this future to life?’” Brand Director Dean Yorimitsu says.
The process called everyone who touched it to reflect on the project’s themes, both for the group and for themselves as collaborators.
“Everyone that’s a part of the project at their different stages of life, in their career — what are they becoming? What is DIAZ becoming? And it wasn’t the original intent, but it kind of just flowed so well that it became the purpose behind why it became named BECOMING ,” Celis says.
This intense self reflection combined with their creative process provided a unique opportunity for the team to work together in a brand-new way. Yorimitsu recalls the last day of set being somewhat emotional, as the group had grown close while shooting the project.
“By the end of it, we all felt like family. It was just like we didn’t want to leave,” Yorimitsu says. “So that was one big moment where everything was coming together. Everyone was in alignment. There was passion and creativity and respect and unity in the environment, and that was very memorable.”
Once the crew had the project finalized, it was time to figure out how to reveal it. The group had previously started to host networking events, bringing together locals in the industry and creatives that operated in tandem with their
work to overlap in the same space for an evening.
They had their next one planned for December, and while they didn’t plan for it to be in line with when they were finally ready to share their passion project with the community, they felt the opportunity was one they couldn’t miss.
That evening, the space was filled with the team that created the project and others simply waiting in anticipation to watch the visual narrative in full, after living off of the teasers the group had posted onto social media.
Photo courtesy of Alicia Stepp Photography and DIAZ .
MAKE IT RODEO COLD
The best ideas happen when you least expect it
Story by AYSIA LANE
Photography by KATHY TRAN
Rodeo Cold celebrated its soft opening in December, with a live and in-person donkey show and a cowboy hat maker.
Menu items like The Heifer ($11) can be made vegan friendly by subbing out the meat patty with an Impossible patty.
THREE YEARS AGO, brothers Ian and Eric Fletcher were taking on the brunt of the summertime heat in the pool. As all Texas summers suggest, a beer was needed. Their father grabbed one and handed it over to Ian.
“Sorry, it’s not cold,” he said. “It’s rodeo cold.”
Rodeo cold? The brothers had never heard the phrase. The beer had been in the freezer, but now the ice had melted and the beverage was somewhere on its way to being room temperature.
Rodeo cold.
“My brother said that’d be the name of our next concept,” Eric says.
That cool breeze you feel on Ross Avenue? Well, it’s Rodeo Cold. The 1980s Texas-themed backyard bar, launched by Ian, Eric and Robert Drummond, has already started rounding up regulars despite only having its soft opening back in December.
The feeling of a neighborhood bar is something their team was eager to capture, espcially since they were taking major inspiration from Ian and Eric’s dad, Stan Fletcher.
“My dad started off at the original Chili’s as a bartender in 1978. The original Chili’s on Greenville Avenue was a neighborhood bar,” Eric says. “We wanted to have kind of an ode to him and Chili’s.”
WRANGLER DANGLERS & CHICKEN SHIT
BINGO (YES, LIVE CHICKENS)
On Wednesdays, you can find a team setting up microphones in the bar for a weekly event they call “Showtime at the Rodeo,” aka their take on karaoke. Their karaoke gives you 30 seconds to impress the crowd, whether it be a stunning stage presence or revealing the voice of an angel, before you’re liable to getting an assortment of plushie vegetables playfully thrown at you — the bartenders prefer the term “gently tossed.”
Wag The Dog ($12) is an allbeef frank with house Wagyu chili, shredded cheese, red onion and jalapeño.
The
($16) comes in
and
Wing-Man
BBQ, buffalo, lemon pepper or hot honey flavors
comes with house ranch or bleu cheese.
From the deep fried beef balls called Wrangler Danglers, their upcoming summer activity called Chicken Shit Bingo (yes, there will be live chickens) and the Trinity Shiver shot, you’re bound to find something that may pique your interest or at least make you crack a smile.
Their lighthearted and comedic approach to their Texas theme juxtaposes their approach to curating a pleasurable experience for patrons. After all, this isn’t their first rodeo.
“We have Green Light Social. We started in Austin eight years ago,” Eric says. They moved the concept to Dallas in 2022.
Their dad was yet another kind of inspiration when they thought about the level of service they wanted to bring to Ross Avenue.
“I remember going with him in the ’90s to that original Chili’s, and still regulars would recognize him. He was working for corporate at the time, but still people — 15 years later — recognized him, and it always stuck with me.”
The bar feels familiar, like coming into a warm house on a cold day. A warm house that offers free chili after midnight. The decor alone feels as if it’s been there for years, with a cowboy boot, vintage or western decor and string lights nestled into almost every corner your eye can reach.
High tables fill the space in between the bar and booths. The wall is almost entirely covered in hand-picked vintage frames, western photos, LED signs and the occasional animal head.
The space feels lived-in, and the kicker is: the front portion is only onethird of the entire establishment. The team hopes that by the summertime, the outdoor portion of the property can bring the rest of the backyard bar to life with cornhole, life-size beer pong and human foosball soccer.
Ultimately, the trio behind the bar wanted this concept to be an extension of their growth and stage of their lives.
“My brother, myself and my partner, Robert, we can do the nightclub scene. We’re good at it, but we wanted something that, as we get older, we enjoyed going to ourselves, and we’ve always wanted to do a neighborhood bar.”
Avery Meginnis and Patty Hussey were neighbors and friends for several years before they took on the creation of the Dallas Children’s Museum together.
CHILD’S PLAY
CHILD’S PLAY
The origin story of the Dallas Children’s Museum
Story by AYSIA LANE
Photography by
VICTORIA GOMEZ
AVERY MEGINNIS was about three months postpartum with her second child when her longtime neighbor Patty Hussey, a mother of two herself, came to her with an idea. Hussey had been in Dallas her whole life, and she had yet to find a dedicated children’s museum. What if they started one? The question intrigued Meginnis enough to have her brainstorming about the possibilities. With a new vision for Dallas children in mind, the East Dallas moms began to make their now shared dream a reality.
The duo has since grown into a group of four, acting as the board of directors for the Dallas Children’s Museum. With Hussey acting as the Chair of the Board and Meginnis in her role as Vice President, the group has officially established the museum as a nonprofit organization.
The museum will be following a science, technology, engineering, arts and mechanics (STEAM) approach, with the museum’s exhibits, programs and partnerships being geared toward developing children into capable citizens.
“Most children’s museums are STEM museums, but the arts part is very important to me, and so we’re going to make this a STEAM museum and include the arts part so that you have all of that for the kids,” Hussey says.
The team is aiming to have the museum located in Southeast Dallas, a place they feel would be more accessible to several different groups within the larger community. While they acknowledge the existence of other similarly situated institutions in the City, they look at them as a possibility for connection.
“There are things like the DMA, the Perot and places like that — and we really hope to be an extension and partner with them to work towards just having a better place for children,” Hussey says.
As they have continued through the process, they have gained momentum in the community. Their friends’ friends, word of mouth and happy accidents have resulted in a network of people looking to get involved.
“We’ve just had really great people say ‘We’re going to do this,’ and it’s amazing, because we haven’t really pushed it
out too far without having a location to announce yet,” Hussey says.
The preliminary plans for the museum are centered around accessibility for all children. The organization strives to include programming for children with sensory processing sensitivities, neurodivergent learners and children with disabilities of all kinds.
“We want to build the spaces and be thoughtful about how people move throughout the spaces as easily as they can,” Meginnis says. “(Asking) how do we work with local foundations or companies that are doing really cool stuff to help people that have different abilities and disabilities?”
“Most children’s museums are STEM museums, but the arts part is me,importantveryto and so we’re going to make this a STEAM museum and include the arts part so that you have all of that for the kids.”
The team is now looking for the perfect place to begin to build and create the venue, alongside taking donations and developing a fundraising strategy.
Hussey and Meginnis express gratitude for the journey so far and how much detail goes into such a massive undertaking.
“It’s been a real learning experience going along the way,” Hussey says. “But there are no real boundaries, because it needs to be something for everybody. It needs to be something for all of Dallas, and it’s going to take all of Dallas to get this built.”
Speeding is the main factor in 1 out of 4
or serious injury crashes in North Texas
IT’S NEVER TOO LATE AT AFTER8
THE ORGANIZATION HELPING UNHOUSED YOUTH SECURE THEIR NEXT STEPS
Story by AYSIA LANE
Photography by RAE OVERMAN
From 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., 365 days a year, After8toEdu -
cate is open. Its kitchen, showers, beds, computers and facilities are available to unhoused, unhoused youth, 14 to 21 years of age, in Dallas. The small but mighty staff of six has created a safe space for youth facing some of the most difficult times of their lives.
“We know that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to our work, so people might be surprised to find out that we truly individualize the support we offer our youth in or der to ensure each youth can meet their goals,” Executive Director Angela Enciso says.
Case managers help youth with an array of challenges or logistical tasks they may be unsure of how to approach.
Applying for a job or for housing? Looking to get access to important personal documents or maybe just finding additional resources? The case managers are available to help them finish the goals they set out for themselves.
The organization has partnered with Dallas Independent School District to cater to the needs of students facing homelessness in schools across the district, including Woodrow Wilson High School and Bryan Adams High School Leadership Academy.
“We work with Dallas ISD to ensure all of the high school campus faculty and staff know that we are a resource for students and will always answer the call when a student is identified as housing insecure,” Enciso says.
After rounding out new construction, After8 is bringing in some new programming and services this year. Art therapy lessons, life skills programs such as financial literacy and resume workshops, grief support groups, cooking classes and more are now on the table as resources for their youth. Alongside the therapy rooms, the kitchen has been newly renovated and is now ready for classes to begin.
Based in the Fannie C. Harris Youth Center owned by DISD, the After8 space is connected to Jonathan’s Place — an organization that also provides resources to youth but focuses on younger community members. Between the two, there are 35 beds available for youth in need.
Between the programming and resources it provides, After8 has been able to offer services to youth across the metroplex, including youth from Fort Worth, Arlington and even some who stop by from out of state as they are searching for their next steps.
“Our focus is on providing our youth with as many opportunities to learn and develop new skills as they continue to work toward housing and financial stability,” Enciso says.
Enciso has spent under a year at After8, but it didn’t take long for the impact of the organization’s work to stay with her forever.
“Some of my favorite memories working with our youth have definitely been witnessing their excitement when they get one step closer to their goals.”
Angela Enciso works as the executive director of After8toEducate.
The East Dallas Arts District operates out of the Art on Main building on Main Street.
The East Dallas Arts District
A NEW HUB FOR EAST DALLAS ARTS IS ON THE RISE
Story by AYSIA LANE
Giselle Castro-Brightenburg’s art is displayed at Art on Main.
Andrea
Lamarsaude’s art at Blue Dragon Fine Art during Art Walk EAST
AFTER FOUNDING Art on Main in 2022, Andrea Lamarsaude wanted to find a way to bring East Dallas artists together. After talking with fellow artists in the area, they came to the conclusion that there was a need for a new kind of support system for artists of all different mediums in our neighborhood.
Lamarsaude, Jason Cohen, Logan Refrow, Terri Thoman and Jacque Forsher. These names make up the founding members of the East Dallas Arts District. The nonprofit is centered around art focused educational events, artist demos, open studios and more programming to help establish East Dallas as a “diverse arts destination.”
“We have a website, and we have an artist directory. And then we have artist resources online. We try to keep up all the artist calls that are going on. So if we’re not doing something in person, then we’re trying to do it virtually, either on our social media platforms or on our website,” Lamarsaude says. “We are wanting to do more craft, not just fine art.”
The desire to expand their artist rolodex comes after a successful Art Walk in November of last year, featuring over 60 artists. The event allowed neighbors to explore East Dallas-based art and artists, tour their studios, purchase pieces and enjoy live music in the process.
“Not only did we have venues, but we also had artists’ actual studios at their homes,” Lamarsaude says. “Everybody was very positive. It was like ‘Well, we’ve never really had anything in this neighborhood, and thank you for organizing it.’”
The team is already planning for the next Art Walk in November. With some time and experience under their artist aprons, they are now focusing on expanding their resources, community events and hopefully integrating other kinds of arts as well.
“What we’re trying to do as well is smaller things throughout the year, like artist talks and perhaps some workshops, educational workshops for the community, and we’re working with the Office of Arts and Culture,” she says. “We’d like to work with local businesses and see if there was a way we could do some public art programs, like murals or sculptural works.”
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THE HEATING & AC EXPERTS
Installations & Repairs
Emergency Services
24/7 On-Call
100% Satisfaction
Guarantee
ALEXANDER HOME REPAIR. AC/HEAT Repair & Install. LIC#28052 469-226-9642 TA CLA67136C 214-710-2515 dallasheatingac.com
ASK ABOUT DISCOUNTS!
APPLIANCE REPAIR
JESSE’S A/C & APPLIANCE SERVICE
TACLB13304C All Makes/Models. 214-660-8898
BUY SELL TRADE
!!OLD GUITARS WANTED!! Gibson, Fender, Martin, Etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. Top Dollar Paid.1-866 -433-8277
CABINETRY & FURNITURE
JD’S TREE SERVICE Mantels, Headboards, Kitchen Islands, Dining tables. Made from Local Trees. www.jdtreeservice.com 214-946-7138
GOLDEN CLEANING SERVICE
CINDY’S HOUSE CLEANING 15 yrs exp. Resd/Com. Refs. Dependable. 214-490-0133
WINDOW MAN WINDOW CLEANING.COM
Residential Specialists. BBB. 214-718-3134
COMPUTERS & ELECTRONICS
CONFUSED? FRUSTRATED? Let a seasoned pro be the interface between you & that pesky Windows computer. Hardware/Software Installation, Troubleshooting, Training. $100/hr. 1 hr min. Dan 972-639-6413 / stykidan@sbcglobal.net
CONCRETE/MASONRY/PAVING
ADVANCE STONE ART CREATIONS
Decorative Concrete Overlays. 214-705-5954
BRICK, BLOCK, Stone, Concrete, Stucco. Gonzalez Masonry. 214-395-1319
BRICK, STONEWORK, FLAGSTONE PATIOS Mortar Repair. Straighten Brick Mailboxes & Columns. Call Cirilo 214-298-7174
CONCRETE, Driveway Specialist Repairs, Replacement, Removal, References. Reasonable. Chris 214-770-5001
JOHNSON PAVING Concrete, Asphalt, Driveways. New or Repair. 214-827-1530
Concrete • Driveways
Walls
Concrete
BENJAMINS PAINTING Hiring:18-26Yr.olds, Top Pay- Will Train. In Advocate since 2007. 214-725-6768
EXPERIENCED NANNY 2 months-6 Years
Great References.15 Years Experience warconie@gmail.com. 469-987-2172
WANTED: BOOKEEPER
Experienced in Quick books for general construction and home flipping. Send resume or call Ricky:(512) 554-6084
R.Moises.Garza@gmail.com
EXTERIOR CLEANING
G&G DEMOLITION Tear downs, Haul. Interior/Exterior. 214-808-8925
FENCING & DECKS
4 QUALITY FENCING • 214-507-9322 Specializing in Wood. YourWoodmaster.com
AMBASSADOR FENCE CO. Automatic Gates, Fences/Decks, Pergolas, Patio Covers, Arbors. AmbassadorFenceCo.com 214-621-3217
FENCING, ARBORS, DECKS oldgatefence.co 214-766-6422
HANNAH WOODWORKS
• Decks • Pergolas • Patio Covers Hannahwoodworks.com 469-427-0058 or 214-435-9574
HOUSE PAINTING
BENJAMINS PAINTING - Professional work @reasonable price. In Advocate since 2007 214-725-6768
TOP COAT 30 Yrs. Exp. Reliable. Quality Repair/Remodel. Phil @ 214-770-2863
RAMON’S INT/EXT PAINT Sheetrock, Repairs. 214-679-4513
TEXAS BEST PAINTING LLC Resd,Interiors 30Yrs. 214-527-4168 INTERIOR
ANTHONY’S ELECTRIC
Master Electrician. Anthonyselectricofdallas.com TECL24948 50 Yrs. Electrical Exp. Insd. 214-328-1333
TH ELECTRIC Reasonable Rates. Licensed & Insured. Ted. E257 214-808-3658
FOR SALE
FOR SALE 6 pc Queen bedroom set (solid wood). Separately or together. Good Condition. $1200 for set. 956-645-1747
GARAGE SERVICES
UNITED GARAGE DOORS AND GATES Res/Com. Locally Owned. 214-251-5428
GLASS, WINDOWS & DOORS
ROCK GLASS CO Replace, Repair. Single,Double Panes. Showers, Mirrors. 214-837-7829
HANDYMAN SERVICES
DANHANDY.NET Repairs Done Right For A Fair Price. References 214-991-5692
HANDY DAN The Handyman. ToDo’s Done Right. handy-dan.com 214-252-1628
HANDYMAN SPECIALIST Residential/ Commercial. Large, small jobs, repair list, renovations. Refs. 214-489-0635
HANDYMAN WANTS your Painting,Repairs, To Do Lists. Bob. 214-288-4232. Free Est. 25+yrs exp.
HOME REPAIR Small/Big Jobs. Int/Ext. Sheetrock, Windows, Kitchen, Bathroom 33 yrs exp. 214-875-1127
HOMETOWN HANDYMAN All phases of construction. No job too small 214-327-4606
ONE CALL WEEKEND SERVICES
Contractor & Handyman. Remodels, Renovations . Paint, Plumbing, Drywall, Electrical.469-658-9163
KITCHEN/BATH/TILE/GROUT
FENN CONSTRUCTION Full Service Contractor. dallastileman.com 214-343-4645
TK REMODELING 972-533-2872 Complete Full Service Repairs, Remodeling, Restoration. Name It — We do it. Tommy. Insured. dallas.tkremodelingcontractors.com
Locally harvested wood! JD’s Tree Service
ORGANIZATION
A CHARMING HOME Decluttering + Organizing + Styling acharminghome.co 214-794-6382
PEST CONTROL
RESPONSIBLE TREE CARE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT Firewood/Cooking Wood Full service trimming & planting of native trees. 214.946.7138
NATURE KING PEST MANAGEMENT INC. Squirrels, Racoons, Skunks, Snakes, Possums, etc. Pest & Termite. Neighborhood Resident 30+ Yrs.exp. 214-827-0090
PLUMBING
AC PLUMBING Repairs, Fixtures, Senior Discounts. Gary Campbell. 214-321-5943
ANCHOR PLUMBING Your trusted Oak Cliff plumber for 30+ years. 214-946-1638.
972-379-4000 staggsplumbing.co ASK ABOUT DISCOUNTS! PLUMBING ISSUES ? We’re
CERULEAN POOL SERVICES Family Owned/ Operated. Weekly maintenance, Chemicals, parts & repairs. CeruleanPro.com 214-557-6996
ESTATE HOME NEEDS TO BE SOLD? Facing forclosure? IG Heron Homes Call Ricardo Garza @ 469-426-7839 NEAR WRLAKE 2/1 DUPLEX. Hdwds, Appl. Yard Serv. CHA, 1/carport. $1,400+Dep. 469879-2977 OFFICE SUBLEASE In Bishop Arts. Cool, Quiet. 1,179 Sq ft. 4 rooms + kit / bath, parking. $2,950 + NNNs. 713.302-7722.
LAWNS, GARDENS & TREES
DALLAS KDR SERVICES
WHERE CAN I FIND LOCAL ...?
REMODELING
OFFICE SUBLEASE In Bishop Arts. Cool, Quiet. 1,179 Sq ft. 4 rooms + kit / bath, parking. $2,950 + NNNs. 713.302-7722.
SERVICES FOR YOU
#1 WHITE ROCK TREE WIZARDS Professionals, Experts, Artists serving Dallas 15 years.Trim, Removals. Tree Health Care services. Insured. Arborwizard.com. Free Est. (972) 803-6313.
A BETTER TREE MAN Trims, Removals, Insd. 18 Yrs Exp. Roberts Tree Service. 214-808-8925 Lawns, Gardens & Trees
DAVIS LAWN CARE, LLC 580-222-4909 or davislawncare214@yahoo.com Serving Lake Highlands & Lakewood.
ELEVATED GARDENS - 469.682.5039
Raising the Standard of Outdoor Beauty
HOLMAN IRRIGATION
Sprinkler & Valve Repair/ Rebuild Older Systems. Lic. #1742. 214-398-8061
MAYA TREE SERVICE Tree Trim/Remove. Lawn Maintenance. Resd/ Commcl.Insd. CC’s Accptd. mayatreeservice.com 214-924-7058 214-770-2435
NEW LEAF TREE, LLC
Honest, Modern, Safety Minded. 214-850-1528
PAT TORRES 214-388-1850 Lawn Service & Tree Care. 28 Yrs. Complete Landscape Renovation. New Fence Install & Brick Repair. Concrete Removal and Gutter Cleaning. RED SUN LANDSCAPES • 214-935-9779 RedSunLandscapes.com
RGC - STORM WATER MANAGEMENT drainage solutions 214-477-8977
TAYLOR MADE IRRIGATION Repairs, service, drains. 30+ years exp. Ll 6295 469-853-2326. John
WALTON’S GARDEN CENTER
Stop in for home decor, candles, house plants, succulents and more. It’s time to plan for spring. Call us for design, prep and plantings! 8652 Garland Road 214.321.2387
For complete terms and conditions, visit advocatemag. com/advertisingterms.
BO HANDYMAN Specializing In Historic Home Renovations & Pro Remodels. Custom Carpentry, Doors, Kitchens, Baths & more. 214-437-9730
FENN CONSTRUCTION Kitchens And Baths. Call Us For Your Remodeling Needs. 214-343-4645. dallastileman.com
AGING ROOF? New Homeowner? Got Storm Damage? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing Available.1-888-878-9091. BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 855761-1725
RENOVATE DALLAS renovatedallas.com 214-403-7247
S&L CONSTRUCTION All Home Services & Repairs. 214-918-8427
BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation,production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads
A CHARMING HOME
Decluttering + Organizing + Styling acharminghome.co 214-794-6382
MOSQUITO SHIELD 972–850-2983
Imagine A Night Outside Without Mosquitoes NATURE KING PEST MANAGEMENT INC. All types of Pest control. Natureking.com Natureking.com. 5 Star rating on Google 30+yrs. Exp. 214-827-0090. PLUMBING
AC PLUMBING Repairs, Fixtures, Senior Discounts. Gary Campbell. 214-321-5943
staggsplumbing.co ASK ABOUT DISCOUNTS!
POOLS
CERULEAN POOL SERVICES Family Owned/ Operated. Weekly maintenance, Chemicals, parts & repairs. CeruleanPro.com 214-557-6996
C.A.S. BOOKKEEPING SERVICES Personal/Small Business. Payroll, Accounting, Organizing, Consult. Cindy 214-577-7450
WHERE DID YOUR MONEY GO? Bookkeeping Services for small businesses & Personal. Financial organizing. Quicken & other programs. Sharon 214-679-9688
ESTATE HOME NEEDS TO BE SOLD? Facing forclosure? IG Heron Homes Call Ricardo Garza @ 469-426-7839 FOR RENT Little Forest Hills 2/1 Single Family Home w/fence. $1,600mo. $1,600 deposit. Cheryl. 214-235-1399
GARDEN OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT Walnut Hill @ CENTRAL.3 Smaller Suites Avail. Flexible Terms 214.915. 8886
Kitchens, Bathrooms, Windows, Doors, Siding, Decks, Fences, Retaining Walls, New Construction
New Construction & Remodels FiferCustomHomes.com• 214-727-7075
TK REMODELING
KITCHEN • BATHS Complete Remodeling and Restoration Design Build • Detailed Professionals TKREMODELINGTX.COM 972 533-2872
ROOFING & GUTTERS
BERT ROOFING INC.
DENTAL INSURANCE- Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Covers 350 procedures. Real insurance -not a discount plan. Get your free dental info kit! 1-888-623-3036 www.dental50plus.com/58 #6258
DIRECTV STREAM - Carries the most local MLB Games! ChoicePackage $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once.HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.)No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405
DONATE YOUR CARS TO VETERANS TODAY. Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800 -245-0398
ELIMINATE GUTTER CLEANING FOREVER! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-402-0373
GENERAC Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Down + Low Monthly Pmt. Request a free Quote. Call before the next power outage: 1-844-334 -8353
GET DISH SATELLITE TV +INTERNET
Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-479-1516
HUGHESNET Finally, super-fast internet no matter where you live.25 Mbps just $59.99/mo! Unlimited Data is Here. Stream Video. Bundle TV & Internet. Free Installation. Call 866-499 -0141
PROFESSIONAL LAWN SERVICE: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Call now for a free quote. Ask about our first application special! 1-833-606-6777
REPLACE your roof with the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install. (military, health &1st responders.) 1-833-370-1234
SAFE STEP North America's #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-417-1306
THE GENERAC PWRCELL, a solar plus battery storage system. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services
WATER DAMAGE
cleanup & restoration: A small amount of water can lead to major damage and mold growth in your home. Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your family and your home's value! Call 24/7: 1-888-872-2809
TUTOR/LESSONS
WANTED: OBOE TEACHER needed for 14 year old student. Call 214–235-7429
OUR NEIGHBORHOOD
By PATTI VINSON
A beautiful day for a neighbor.
Would you be mine?
NEIGHBOR, BEN FRANKLIN HAS SOME WORDS OF WISDOM FOR YOU: “BE AT WAR WITH YOUR VICES, AT PEACE WITH YOUR NEIGHBORS, AND LET EVERY NEW YEAR FIND YOU A BETTER PERSON.”
Your vices are your business and way too much for this space, but waging peace in the neighhood and, thus, being a good human?
Definitely doable. Let’s talk.
Here’s an invitation to peek into, and perhaps borrow from the playbook of Tim and Paula: my good neighbors for over 20 years.
Greet the newbies. When we moved in all those years ago, Tim and Paula introduced themselves as we carried in boxes and they made us feel at home. They gave us the ins and outs of the neighborhood, shared restaurant recommendations, and told us about grocery stores in the area. Keep it down. Our neighbors are considerate of those close by and watch their noise level. They don’t crank up the lawnmower or leaf blower at the crack of dawn or late at night. When Tim sits on his front porch swing, playing guitar and singing (he sounds just like James Taylor), it’s never when we’re trying to sleep - and it’s always a welcome mini concert.
Heads up. If Tim and Paula will be having any noisy work done, say, roofing or construction, they let us know ahead of time. If they’ll be hosting a larger celebration, they clue us in so we’ll know to expect more cars parked on the street.
Maintain your home. I often see Tim mowing the front yard and tending to his shrubs and flowerbeds. Paula frequently grabs a broom as
soon as she gets home from work or errands and sweeps their front porch and walkway. They pull their trash and recycling bins to the curb the night before pickup, and promptly move them back to their hiding place when empty. Their home has true curb appeal which adds to the overall positive feel of the neighborhood.
Be mindful of your pets. A couple of years after we moved in, Tim and Paula and their daughters adopted sweet Suka, a big, friendly golden dog. We rarely heard her barking in their backyard, and she was always leashed on walks. Side note: Suka was a Houdini Dog and sometimes managed to escape their yard and come over to see us. Because we knew Suka from our dog sitting turns when they were traveling, we kept her safe until her family could retrieve her. She passed at a ripe old age a couple of years ago, having had the best possible life a dog could ask for.
Be helpful. It would take a while to list all the ways Tim and Paula have come to our aid over the years. We’ve borrowed their tall ladder—and loaned them our hedge trimmer. We split the expense of a shared fence. During cold-weather outages, they’ve offered us a warm up in front of their fireplace. We’ve shared recommendations for plumbers and mechanics. More times than I can count, they have watched our home while we’re out of town, gathering the mail, newspapers, and packages—and we’ve happily done the same for them.
Small gestures count. Tim frequently shares the bounty of his garden, leaving bags of Swiss chard or onions on our porch. When our kids were little, Paula passed along her daughters’
outgrown toys and clothes. Each holiday season, we exchange fudge and cookies and other goodies from our kitchens.
Remember that the term “neighbors” isn’t limited to just the folks next door. Think of the word in a larger sense: your block, your street, your neck of the woods, East Dallas. As you walk, run, and take the dog out for some exercise, smile and wave to others you see out and about. Better yet, stop and chat. Cultivating good relationships with those around us and learning more about them and their routines creates a safer environment for us all, an urban security concept known as “eyes on the street.”
As you get to know neighbors, consider exchanging phone numbers. Check on each other during power outages and after storms. Be especially watchful of elderly neighbors who live alone. If you haven’t seen a neighbor out and about in a while, knock on their door.
If a neighbor is sick, drop off some soup or flowers. New baby in the home? A pan of lasagna is always appreciated by the sleep-deprived parents.
If conflicts or problems arise with those who live nearby, try chatting calmly with them. They’re likely more reasonable than you assume. How do you want your neighbors to treat you? Do the same for them. Wage war on those vices - we all have them - but wage peace with the people around you. Be a good neighbor.
PATTI VINSON is a guest writer who has lived in East Dallas for more than 20 years. She’s written for the Advocate and Real Simple magazine.
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