Discover Park Cities Elegance: The PCLDA 41st Annual Pool & Garden Tour
For those who cherish the unparalleled beauty of North Texas landscapes and the architectural grandeur characteristic of University Park, an extraordinary opportunity awaits. The Park Cities Learning Differences Association (PCLDA) is proud to present its 41st annual Pool & Garden Tour, an exclusive event offering a rare glimpse into two of the region’s most magnificent private gardens. Scheduled for Thursday, April 26, from 6 to 8 p.m., this highly anticipated tour promises an evening of breathtaking beauty, sophisticated design, and vibrant community spirit, all while supporting a vital cause.
This year’s meticulously curated tour proudly showcases two exceptional properties, each a testament to meticulous design, luxurious outdoor living, and the artistic integration of nature and architecture. Guests will have the distinct privilege of exploring the stunning grounds of Kathryn and Hal Cook’s residence at 7000 Baltimore, alongside the equally impressive home of Susie and Mark Barnett located at 6767 Turtle Creek Blvd. These properties are far more than mere residences; they are landscape masterpieces, offering endless inspiration and a sense of serene luxury at every turn. Attendees will discover innovative planting schemes, elegant hardscaping, and captivating water features that define the pinnacle of Park Cities garden design.
A Legacy of Support: Empowering Children Through PCLDA
The PCLDA Pool & Garden Tour transcends a simple aesthetic journey; it stands as a cornerstone fundraiser for an organization deeply dedicated to empowering children with learning differences. For over four decades, PCLDA has been at the forefront of providing crucial support, invaluable resources, and steadfast advocacy for students, their families, and dedicated educators within the Park Cities community and beyond. Their enduring mission revolves around fostering confidence, enhancing educational outcomes, and ensuring every child is afforded the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential, regardless of their unique learning challenges.
Jenifer Bush, 2017-18 PCLDA co-president, eloquently articulates the profound essence of the event: “The PCLDA Pool and Garden Tour allows participants to experience two of the Park Cities’ most unique gardens while raising money for our neighborhood schools. We’ve received wonderful community support for the event this year, and we are grateful to all of our sponsors.” Her words powerfully underscore the symbiotic relationship between enthusiastic community engagement and the profound, tangible impact PCLDA has on countless lives. The inclusion of two truly spectacular University Park gardens this year not only elevates the visual experience for attendees but also highlights the extraordinary caliber of properties opening their gates for this noble cause, promising an unforgettable and inspiring evening for all who participate.
Unveiling Landscape Masterpieces: The Featured University Park Gardens
The term “spectacular” barely begins to capture the grandeur, intricate beauty, and innovative design of the gardens featured on this year’s exclusive tour. Each estate represents the absolute pinnacle of landscape artistry, meticulously crafted by some of the most esteemed professionals in the field, thereby transforming outdoor spaces into true extensions of luxurious, integrated living environments.
The Cook’s classically inspired estate at 7000 Baltimore Drive is a breathtaking collaboration with the globally recognized Harold Leidner Landscape Architects. Leidner, celebrated for his unparalleled ability to blend timeless elegance with modern functionality, has sculpted an environment that radiates sophistication and serene charm. Visitors will discover a landscape rich in “incredible texture and detail around every corner,” a distinctive hallmark of Leidner’s signature style. Imagine meticulously manicured hedges framing vibrant floral displays that burst with color, serene water features that calmly reflect the changing sky, and artfully designed pathways that gently invite leisurely strolls through a verdant, sculpted paradise. This garden is a masterclass in classical symmetry, thoughtful and diverse plant selection, and the artful integration of luxurious hardscape elements that together create an atmosphere of refined tranquility. From intimate charming garden rooms perfect for quiet contemplation to expansive, impeccably manicured lawns ideal for grand entertaining, every single element is designed to captivate and inspire, offering a perfect, harmonious balance between the splendor of nature and architectural brilliance. It’s a true testament to how expert landscape architecture can enhance a luxury home in the Park Cities.
Meanwhile, the distinguished Barnett home at 6767 Turtle Creek Blvd. proudly showcases the exceptional talent and vision of acclaimed landscape architect Robert Bellamy. Situated along one of Dallas’s most prestigious avenues, known for its iconic homes and lush surroundings, this garden is a profound testament to bespoke design, where natural beauty seamlessly meets sophisticated outdoor living. Bellamy’s expertise shines brilliantly through his remarkable ability to create dynamic yet profoundly harmonious spaces that perfectly complement the architectural style and inherent grandeur of the residence. While specific details of its design philosophy remain a delightful surprise reserved for tour-goers, one can confidently anticipate lush, diverse plantings, innovative and subtle lighting systems that create an ethereal ambiance, and thoughtfully designed entertainment areas that collectively reflect the serene luxury and timeless elegance synonymous with Turtle Creek living. Both properties stand as quintessential exemplars of how expert landscape design can dramatically elevate a home, transforming its outdoor spaces into enchanting environments that are simultaneously stunningly beautiful, eminently functional, and deeply inspiring for any homeowner seeking to enhance their University Park property.
Community Leaders Championing a Vital Cause
The resounding success and far-reaching impact of the PCLDA Pool & Garden Tour are significantly bolstered by the dedicated leadership of its esteemed honorary chairs, Ashley and Paul Rasmussen. Their active involvement profoundly underscores the deep-rooted commitment of Park Cities leaders to philanthropic endeavors and the continuous betterment of their cherished community.
Paul Rasmussen, the distinguished Senior Pastor of Highland Park United Methodist Church, is a prominent and highly respected figure whose influential leadership extends far beyond the confines of the pulpit. He masterfully spearheaded a monumental fundraising effort that successfully raised an astounding $65 million for the brand-new Tolleson Family Activity Center. This groundbreaking facility, which is slated for completion in 2019, will dedicate an impressive 22,000 square feet to the church’s vital special needs ministry. His profound passion for wholeheartedly supporting individuals with unique needs aligns perfectly and powerfully with PCLDA’s foundational mission, thereby making his role as honorary co-chair exceptionally meaningful and impactful. The forward-thinking integration of such extensive and specialized resources for special needs within a central community center reflects a truly progressive approach to inclusivity and comprehensive support within the Park Cities area.
Ashley Rasmussen is equally and passionately committed to serving and enhancing the community. As an outstanding Realtor affiliated with Allie Beth Allman & Associates, she possesses an intimate and unparalleled understanding of the Park Cities area and its vibrant, philanthropic spirit. Her deep involvement extends into various essential facets of Highland Park United Methodist Church, including her active and dedicated participation in United Methodist Women. Together, Paul and Ashley are lovingly raising three children who attend three distinct and reputable educational institutions: Highland Park High School, Jesuit College Preparatory School, and Shelton School. Their personal experience navigating and appreciating diverse educational environments further enriches their perspective and deepens their unwavering dedication to invaluable organizations like PCLDA, which passionately champion individualized learning pathways and tailored educational support for all children.
“Sowing the Seeds”: Nurturing Future Success for Children with Learning Differences
The PCLDA Pool & Garden Tour is far more than just an evening of aesthetic enjoyment; it is a profound and impactful act of community support that directly and positively influences the lives of children with learning differences. The critical funds raised through this event are instrumental in providing essential scholarships, which thoughtfully open doors to specialized educational programs, therapeutic interventions, and vital resources that might otherwise remain inaccessible to families. Furthermore, PCLDA makes a crucial investment in comprehensive training for educators, equipping them with the latest evidence-based strategies, innovative techniques, and crucial insights to effectively support students with diverse learning needs in neighborhood schools. These specialized resources, coupled with ongoing advocacy and personalized guidance, are meticulously designed to empower children to bravely overcome challenges, unlock their inherent potential, and achieve their fullest potential academically, socially, and emotionally.
For more than four decades, PCLDA has proudly fostered a cherished tradition of gathering the community for this special annual spring fundraiser. Attendees can anticipate an enchanting and memorable atmosphere, complete with delectable food, refreshing beverages, and the soothing, melodic sounds of live music, all gracefully set against the picturesque backdrop of stunning Park Cities gardens. The event’s evocative theme, “Sowing the Seeds,” is far more than just a catchy slogan – it is the very heart and soul of the organization’s enduring mission. It’s a powerful and resonant metaphor that perfectly encapsulates the nurturing care and dedicated support provided by PCLDA: by planting precious seeds of confidence and self-belief deeply within children, and then tirelessly nurturing them with comprehensive education, specialized resources, and unwavering emotional support, the organization firmly believes these young individuals can truly bloom and flourish, growing into healthy, successful, and contributing adults who positively shape their communities. This profound philosophy transforms the simple act of visiting a magnificent garden into a direct participation in a much larger, deeply significant growth story for countless children and families in the Park Cities.
Join Us: Event Details & Call to Action
Don’t miss this unique and heartwarming opportunity to support a vital cause while immersing yourself in the unparalleled beauty and sophisticated design of some of Park Cities’ most exquisite landscapes. Your attendance directly contributes to “sowing the seeds” of success for children with learning differences.
What: Park Cities Learning Differences Association 41st Annual Pool & Garden Tour
When: Thursday, April 26, 6-8 p.m.
Where: Exclusive private residences in University Park (exact addresses provided upon ticket purchase)
Tickets: $40 in advance and $50 at the door. We strongly encourage early purchase to secure your spot for this highly anticipated event and to provide maximum support for PCLDA’s invaluable mission. Advance tickets are conveniently available online at www.pclda.org. Join us for an evening of elegance, inspiration, and profound impact, knowing that every ticket purchased helps cultivate a brighter future for children!