Our thanks to Virginia Cook, Realtors for the generous donation to the Northaven Trail!  As detailed in the press release below, the donation will go towards the respite at St. Michaels and Lavendale. ----------------

Happy Holidays, Dallas!

Virginia Cook, Realtors Funds Segment of Hike and Bike Trail

Virginia Cook, Realtors launched the holiday season with a financial gift  that will fund the respite section of the Northaven Trail,  the City of Dallas’ newest commuter and recreational bike and hike trail.

The announcement was made during the independently-owned real estate firm's holiday gathering at The Alexander Mansion on December 4.

“Making a gift of enduring value to the community that we serve is both a privilege and a responsibility,” said Virginia Cook, CEO. “The Northaven Trail runs through the heart of our business home and will ultimately enrich the quality of life for citizens throughout Greater Dallas for generations to come.”

The Northaven Trail is a public trail built and maintained by the Dallas Parks and Recreation Department. The trail currently runs through the Oncor power line easement between Northaven Road and Royal Lane. The master plan takes the trail all the way from Central Expressway to Denton Drive, with plans to connect to the White Rock Trail on the east and Irving’s Campion Trail on the west. There will also be connections to DART’s Forest Lane Station and Walnut Hill / Denton Station.

The respite section funded by Virginia Cook, Realtors is located at St. Michael’s and Lavendale and will feature stone bench seating, a bike repair station, landscaping, and water fountains for people and dogs. It will also be the site for community-oriented events such as “movie night in the park”.

“We love everything the respite offers Dallas,” said Ms. Cook, noting that leaders dating back to President John F. Kennedy have recognized the catalyst a hike and bike trail system plays in creating a healthier, safer and more connected community.

“This will be a place neighbors meet and get to know each other. It’s a place where families play together. Pet lovers stop for a drink for the dog, bikers air up their tires, and walkers can simply take a break and enjoy the views,” said Ms. Cook.

While the City of Dallas’ 2006 Bond monies provided for the construction and on-going maintenance of The Northaven Trail, many of the additional amenities, such as the respite area, are funded through corporate and citizen donations.

“We cannot thank Virginia Cook, Realtors enough for this commitment to the Friends of Northaven Trail and to the residents of Preston Hollow and Dallas,” said Lee Kleinman, Park and Recreation Board Member, Council District 11. “Your leadership demonstrates that public private partnerships are an effective way to build community.”

Virginia Cook, Realtors’ contribution to the Northaven Trail continues a 13-year history of support to the communities the North Texas firm serves. In 2012 alone, the company and its agents have contributed funds and volunteer labor to more than 100 civic, art and charitable organizations.

Virginia Cook is currently president of the Dallas Woman’s Forum, which owns the historic Alexander Mansion at 4607 Ross Avenue where the company’s associates and civic and community leaders gathered on December 4. In addition to restoring the architecturally significant property, the Forum supports enrichment programs for the nearby Landaur Child Care Group and the music program at DISD’s Birdie Alexander Elementary School.

For information, visit virginiacook.com.