CENTRAL TEXAS COMMUNITY GUIDE Unity in Community 2024 - 2025
CENTRAL TEXAS
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CENTRAL TEXAS COMMUNITY GUIDE Unity in Community Unity in Community
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Main photo: Sunset on Belton Lake, Temple Telegram.
Photo Left: Temple Mayor Tim Davis thanks everyone on January 10, 2024 for their support of the Heart to Home Animal Adoption Center, Joel Valley.
Center Left: Temple ISD Superintendent Bobby Ott shakes a student’s hand during Temple High School’s 2023 graduation at the Cadence Bank Center, Courtesy photo. Center Right: Bell County Museum at Night, Courtesy photo.
Photo Right: Festival in Santa Fe Plaza, City of Temple.
Amy's House: over 1,000 visitors
Arbor of Hope 'moving forward'
Arts and Culture: City begins process for Master Plan
UnIncluded Club moving to Rockin’ R
Bell County : SCHOOLS EXCEL
By JOEL VALLEY | TELEGRAM STAFF WRITER
From programs centered on Career and Technical Education to Fine Arts, there is no shortage of opportunities for students of all backgrounds to excel in and out of the classroom of Bell County schools.
In Temple ISD, students enrolled in the Career and Technical Education Center at Temple High School are getting a head start on their future careers, as they accounted for 368 industry-based certifications during
Stephen Bishop, a construction technology instructor, said. “This partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration between education and industry. With their support, our students will have the resources and opportunities they need to reach their full potential, and together, we’re building a brighter future for our community.”
The funding also could help aid in the start of a second tiny house, built
the 2022-23 school year — 125 more than the previous year.
However, that figure, which was released during the 2023-24 school year, is only expected to grow. The Temple Area Builders Association and Turley Engineering donated $6,000 to Temple High School to provide more hands-on opportunities, resources and tools for construction technology students is one of the several reasons why.
“We are immensely grateful for the generosity of Turley and the TABA,”
by construction technology students on a 20-foot by 9 1⁄2-foot trailer, which would feature a kitchen, small bathroom and livable space. The first project was completed this past school year.
“It has been a process to come together as a team even while we are learning the skills,” Josh Donoso, a then Temple High School senior, told the Telegram. “We all have different perspectives and different strengths and we all work together to help each other learn and improve. It has been such a great experience to watch
this idea come together to the point where it is now and it is rewarding to have been a part of this project.”
Temple ISD Superintendent Bobby Ott has repeatedly lauded the evergrowing number of partnerships with the district.
“This is proof of concept that Temple will continue being a statewide leader in CTE,” he said. “Further, it highlights the reasons why: our teacher-student experiences, business partnerships, and amazing community. These are all unique to Temple ISD.”
In early May, Belton ISD Superintendent Malinda Golden noted how student achievement in Belton ISD — a district that spans a little under 200 square miles — also is ever growing with the assistance of community partners.
“We are continuing to see great growth,” she said during the district’s annual State of the District at the Cadence Bank Center in Belton. “Our story is like districts across the nation, not just the state, where we still have not returned to pre-pandemic levels. But we are closing that gap and I’m super proud of the work our teachers and principals are doing.”
With that abundance of support, Golden emphasized how students are routinely innovating.
“I learned some amazing things today,” Golden said after watching a handful of student groups showcase their talents. “I did not realize our kids are getting certifications to fly drones. They are going into aviation. They are going into engineering. They are coding in elementary school. So
Tommy Howell, CFP®, AAMS® CEPA
Financial Advisor 2010 SW HK Dodgen Loop, Exchange Plaza, Suite 208 Temple, TX 76504 254-771-1288 tommy.howell@edwardjones.com
Scot Hrbacek, CFP®
Financial Advisor 3011 N. Main St. Suite C Belton, TX 76513 254-933-7680
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Dustin Zanders, CEPA
Financial Advisor 127 Lake Road Suite 201 Belton, TX 76513 254-939-3387
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Don Hyden, CKA, CRPC®, AAMS®
Financial Advisor 5293 S. 31st St. Tuscan Square Suite 133 Temple, TX 76502 254-899-1007
don.hyden@edwardjones.com
Daryl Riegel, AAMS® CEPA
Financial Advisor 1023 Canyon Creek Dr. Suite 120 Temple, TX 76502 254-791-4630
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Cody Fenoglio, CFP®
Financial Advisor 1908 W. Avenue H Temple, TX 76504 254-770-0958
Financial Advisor 207 E. 2nd Ave. Belton, TX 76513 254-939-5824
joshua.dildine@edwardjones.com
Lance Cox
Financial Advisor 7363 West Adams Ave, Suite 103 Temple, TX 76502 254-773-1945
lance.cox@edwardjones.com
Douglas Weisbruch, AAMS®
Financial Advisor 4224 South 5th Street Suite B Temple, TX 76502 (254) 598-2049 douglas.weisbruch@edwardjones.com
Gary Knight Financial Advisor 114 S East St Belton, TX 76513 254-933-2436
gary.knight@edwardjones.com
John Taylor
Financial Advisor 100 Kasberg Dr., Suite B Temple, TX 76502 254-774-9300
john.h.taylor@edwardjones.com
Betti Gardner Financial Advisor 511 Lake Road, Suite 104 Belton, TX 76513 (254) 933-3155
betti.gardner@edwardjones.com
Amanda Cruz
Financial Advisor 1908 W. Avenue H Temple, TX 76504 254-770-0958
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Jennifer Adams
Financial Advisor (Se Habla Espanol) 9105 Adams Lane Suite A. Temple, TX 76502 (254) 780-9806 j.adams@edwardjones.com
we are not going to allow a budget shortfall to keep us from innovating.”
One Belton ISD parent recently spoke about how the Belton ISD chapter of The Penguin Project — a national program that was established in 2004 to empower children with special needs through theater — has impacted his family’s lives.
“It is a special needs play where children with special needs are paired with a mentor that helps them learn their lines, say their lines, helps when they have hard days, etc.,” he said.
Land highlighted the friendship that blossomed between his daughter, Bella, and the mentor who she was paired with.
“She stood up for Bella with a ferocious attitude when needed but was also very patient when Bella tested her with bad days at practice,” he said.
jvalley@tdtnews.com
WHY I LOVE TEM PLE
BARBARA BOZON
Executive Director of the Central Texas Housing Consortium
“I love Temple because it is big enough to have a great variety of restaurants, parks, entertainment and many other features, yet it is small enough that you can easily get to know many people and have access to our community leaders. Temple is growing, and that is exciting to watch. When I was a child, downtown Temple was thriving and it is so nice to see it coming back to being a vital part of our city.
I really appreciate how the community cares about everyone. We serve a lot of low income citizens and over the years so many people and organizations have provided funds and services that really increase the quality of life for our residents. This also allows us to do so many things like host four National Night Outs and a Juneteenth celebration. The City is actively working to provide services for the homeless. Many other organizations also provide a wide array of services.
Temple has benefited greatly from previous generations of leaders, current leaders and the people who are stepping into leadership roles. It makes me feel proud and very positive that our future will be bright."
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Temple College's New Building: PROJECT UNDER WAY
on Wednesday May 1, 2024.
Nan Dickson/Special to the Telegram
A building project funded in part by a bond package approved by voters in 2021 is well under way on the Temple College campus.
By DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO
A massive $160 million building project funded in part by a bond package approved by voters in 2021 is under way on the Temple College campus.
“We plan on having all four buildings finished by Temple College’s 100th anniversary in 2026,” TC President Christy Ponce said.
The project will add a new Main building that features a University Center, a new Arts & Workforce Building, a new Campus Services Center and
THE TELEGRAM
an expanded Health Sciences Center. Big progress has already been made on the Arts & Workforce Building.
Ponce said TC’s new Health Sciences Center will be a four-story structure that will allow the college to expand current health-care programs, add new ones and help address the statewide shortage of workers in health fields.
“Thanks to a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Temple College
will be able to renovate our dental hygiene program by creating new space and purchasing new equipment to prepare students to work in dental offices around the region.”
Ponce said the expansion and renovation of the Health Sciences Center will allow Temple College to more than double its existing nursing program.
“Because of growth, nursing and some of our other health-care programs are
housed in temporary spaces,” she said. “This will provide urgently needed facilities for learning, training and clinical simulations.”
The construction project also includes an 80,000-squarefoot Arts & Workforce Building that will be home to the Visual Arts Center and the Advanced Manufacturing Training Center. The building will be built on the north end of the campus.
A construction worker directs a forklift operator in picking up a metal piece at a Temple College new building site
New Teacher Training Facility Opens at UMHB
Marek-Smith Center for Teacher Preparation, a new $6 million center for training future teachers, is now open on University of Mary Hardin-Baylor's campus.
By DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
There’s much excitement on the campus of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor as students and staff now have a new $6 million training center for future teachers.
Hundreds of Belton-area residents filed into the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor campus in early March for the dedication of the Marek-Smith Center for Teacher Preparation — a $6-million state-of-the-art facility that will be equipped for special education training and instruction.
“It raises the bar for teacher education and reflects our commitment to offer exceptional academic programs,”
UMHB President Dr. Randy O’Rear said. “We have a proud history of preparing future educators, and we can’t wait to see the impact that this new innovative facility will have on your education.”
The naming of the 12,808-square-foot facility at 1013 N. Pearl St. in Belton honors a friendship between two Central Texas residents: Evan Smith, a 2013 Belton High School graduate
and 2017 Texas A&M University graduate, and Logan Marek, a 2017 Belton High School graduate with autism.
Smith had served as Marek’s personal care provider through his involvement with Young Life Capernaum — a religious organization dedicated to helping teens and young adults with disabilities — before he died in 2018.
“Their friendship inspired many people,” said O’Rear, who noted that Marek donated some of his own hard-
Community members turned out for the dedication of the Marek-Smith Center for Teacher Preparation — a $6-million state-of-the-art facility that will be equipped for special education training and instruction at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton.
Courtesy / Hannah Van Beusekom
earned money to support the project.
“The Marek-Smith Center for Teacher Preparation will honor Evan’s legacy by preparing future educators to serve students with disabilities. We are so proud to have Evan’s and Logan’s names on this building.”
He extended his gratitude to the countless other donors that pledged their support.
“I know many of you in attendance today gave generously to help make this dream facility a reality. We appreciate every single gift,” O’Rear, who called the new facility a game changer, said. “We are especially grateful to Kim Fikes and the board members of the Fikes Foundation for making the lead gift that enabled us to move forward with this project.”
During the ceremony, Amy Smith, Evan’s mother, reminded those in attendance to always remember that there is someone out there who they can impact for the better.
“We can make a conscious decision to notice others,” she said. “You were born at this time and living in this area of the world for a reason. You were meant to work; you were made to serve; you were created to love. In loving and serving others, you will find joy and purpose.”
Kris Ward — a UMHB alumna, director of special programs, and professor in UMHB’s College of Education — highlighted how UMHB is the only university she knows of in the country with a special needs lab where undergraduate education majors work directly with children with disabilities.
“In this building, we serve a purpose: to teach undergraduate education majors how to be teachers,” she said. “It’s not an easy task. Teaching is hard, but it is a calling. In the special education world, we address several factors, not only their academic skills.
We also address their sensory needs, language needs, communication, and social skills. All of those are part of what we will do in the Marek-Smith Center for Teacher Preparation.”
That mission will now be better accomplished with resources that include a multisensory room, a highimpact zone, a STEM lab, an outdoor exploration zone and an immersion room under the roof of the MarekSmith Center for Teacher Preparation.
Molly Kate Elkins, the daughter of UMHB alumni Tiffany and Barry Elkins, will be a beneficiary of those spaces and shared her excitement for all the time she plans to spend there.
“I love the special needs lab and my college friends I get to make there,” she said. “At the old lab, my wheelchair could not go through the same door as everyone else. I had to use a different door. With the new lab, I can go through the same door as my friends. The new lab is so cool. The very best
part is the immersion room. I want to say thank you to all the people who helped us get a new lab. I can’t wait to play more.”
Ashley Smith, director of marketing and public relations for UMHB, said the Marek-Smith Center will allow the university to better serve the academic, social and sensory needs of K-12 students and teachers throughout Central Texas.
“UMHB believes college students need experience within the safety of a campus facility, with their instructors present to guide them as they learn the intricacies of teaching students with disabilities,” said Joan Berry, dean of College Education at UMHB.
“This facility will be a game-changer for UMHB,” Berry said. “It will allow both general education and special education majors to connect what they are doing in the classroom with what they experience working directly with students from the community.”
Students from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor attend commencement services for the spring 2023 semester at Crusader Stadium in Belton. Photo courtesy of UMHB
CENTRAL TEXAS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Serves an area of Central Texas comprising three counties
Class Size: 20
1137 Average GPA: 87.41 Tuition Assistance Available Over 17 sports | No tryouts necessary Award Winning Drama and Forensics Department All Faiths are Welcome
HTCHS offers extensive academic and extracurricular opportunities that meet student interests. Honors and AP courses available in English,foreign languages, mathematics, science, and social science.
Since 2005, HTCHS has won Female Fine Arts Student of the Year 7 times, Male Fine Arts Student of the Year 5 times and Fine Arts Teacher of the Year 3 times.
HTCHS students have been accepted to universities such as Baylor, University of Texas, Austin, Texas A & M, United States Air Force Academy, University of Dallas, Boston University, West Point Military Academy, and Yale University
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• 8000+ students served each year
• Campuses in Temple, Hutto, and Taylor
• 5 Athletics programs
• 75+ degree, certificate and workforce programs
• Dozens of annual community events, including THE BEST Jazz Festival in Central Texas The mission of Temple College is to foster student success for our diverse community by providing quality lifelong learning and enrichment experiences that empower students to achieve their dreams and aspirations.
META PROJECT MOVING FORWARD
By DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
Despite being silent for much of 2023, construction at the Meta data center is now rolling along on a 393-acre site in northwest Temple.
“This will be one of our first data centers built using our new design, said Melanie Roe, a spokesperson for the social media giant. “This design will support our next generation of AI systems, and it’s part of our infrastructure that brings our technologies to life.”
“Once completed, the data center will represent an investment of more than $800 million and support approximately 100 operational jobs,” she said.
“We are excited to continue working with JE Dunn Construction on this project, and amazing local contractors such as Rosendin, Brandt Companies, Peabody General Contractors, Alamo Structural Steel, Perry & Perry Builders,
CentiMark and Baker Triangle,” she said. “We anticipate more than 1,200 construction workers will be on site at the peak of construction.”
The Temple facility was one of 11 Meta projects that were delayed late last year to redesign construction plans to meet the company’s future needs.
“I am thrilled that Meta has resumed construction at the Temple facility,” said Adrian Cannady, president and CEO of Temple Economic Development Corp. “The data center will have a positive impact on our community not only by creating jobs, but because of Meta’s commitment to invest in local schools, non profits, and community projects.”
The facility is being built off NW Dodgen Loop and Industrial Boulevard.
WHY I LOVE TEMPLE
BO HARVEY
Temple Developer
“I love Temple because I think it’s a great mix of growth, ever increasing amenities, and yet a hometown feel. More folks who grew up in this area are staying due to the increase in quality of life offerings created by both private and public investment.
Businesses are growing in the area, offering good jobs and wages for the people of our community.
In Temple, you can find interesting and challenging jobs, earn an honest wage, and have a lifestyle where you can still make it to your kids' ballgame, too.”
Revol is Growing Temple lettuce company has aggressive growth plan
By DAVID
Production at a local greens farm hit full swing in 2023 and has already doubled its planted acreage and will double again to 40 acres in about a year.
Revol Greens, a company that began growing and shipping several varieties of lettuce in 2023, is currently using 20 acres of greenhouse along FM 436 south of Heidenheimer.
“Right now, we are growing baby leaf greens — green leaf, red leaf, butter leaf and some romaine,” said Jess Dillon, marketing director for Austinbased Revol. “We will be expanding our product line as we expand our growing capacity.”
In addition to lettuces, the Temple plant produces four salad kits — Greenhouse Caesar, Southwest Baja, Sesame Ginger and Sweet Poppyseed.
In addition to an expanded greenhouse and product line, Dillon said Revol likely will see a significant increase in hiring.
“I’m not sure what that will look like when we have 40 acres in production, but right now we have about 100 employees,” she said. “We’re only
running one shift right now, but that will change. We work every day of the year.”
Shoppers who have bought baby-leaf lettuce locally in the past few months likely have eaten the Temple-grown produce. But, you may not realize it.
“We sell some of our butter-leaf lettuces locally under the Revol brand, but many of our kits are sold under a private label,” she said. “Right now we are selling our products at Walmart, H-E-B, Sprouts and Target, and at United Supermarkets in West Texas.”
Dillon said the Temple facility is equipped to capture rainwater to water the growing plants.
“Our first planting was in early May of 2023, and we were shipping product by the end of that month,” she said. “It takes three weeks to plant, feed, grow, harvest and package our lettuce.”
The Temple farm represents Revol’s first venture into the Lone Star State, but according to Tom Thompson, the company’s chief revenue officer, Revol is investing in Texas in a big way.
“We will focus our company’s Research & Development efforts in Texas,” Thompson said, “and we’ve moved our corporate headquarters to Austin.”
Revol previously was headquartered in Minnesota, and the company operates greenhouses in that state and California. Currently, Revol’s greens are available in stores and restaurants across the Midwest, and the new Temple operation will allow the company to distribute its products throughout Texas and the South, Thompson said.
Products from the Temple greenhouse will move from the facility to market three to four days faster than food products coming from the West Coast, enhancing freshness.
“We selected Temple for our new facility in order to expand our production and distribution capabilities,” said Mike Wainscott, CEO of Revol Greens. “Temple’s central location in Texas means our products will reach shelves and tables throughout the southern U.S. efficiently.”
STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
Swimming & more!
BY DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
Beating the summertime heat in the Temple area is an easy task — there’s two major reservoirs, splash pads, swimming pools and water parks.
Lake Belton features 16 public parks — including the immensely popular Temple Lake Park — operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Temple Lake Park — just follow Adams Avenue until water pours through your window — has picnic and cooking shelters, boat ramps and swimming areas. A day pass is required.
Stillhouse Hollow has seven Corps-operated parks, most with picnic shelters and designated swimming areas. Chalk Ridge Falls, 5600 FM 1670, is open year-round and is popular with hikers. This park, just east of Stillhouse dam, has a scenic waterfall fed by a clear stream that feeds into the nearby Lampasas River.
SummerFun Water Park, 1410 Waco Road in Belton, is a favorite day spot along the Leon River. The park opens in early May.
Temple has several pools and splash pads for community use.
Clark Pool is located at 1808 Curtis B. Elliott Drive, Walker Pool is at 2603 N. 3rd Street and Summit Recreation Center Pool is at 620 Fryers Creek. The Summit facility requires a membership.
Sammons Park Indoor Pool, 2220 W. Avenue D, offers senior swim times and classes, as well as open swim periods, lap times and family swim times.
Temple splash pads are also fun for kids and families. They are located at West Temple Park, 121 S. Montpark Road; Miller Park, 1919 N. 1st; Jaycee Park, 2302 W. Ave. Z; and Ferguson Park, 1203 E. Adams. The water fountain at Santa Fe Plaza also is popular with kids, adults and dogs.
“Temple offers several options for residents to dive into,” said Megan Price, a communications specialist with the city.
“We have Lions Junction Water Park with slides and a lazy river, outdoor swimming pools that offer swimming lessons,
and four splash pads for the younger kiddos as well.”
“We are excited for them to open for the summer season and hope they provide an escape from the heat for our community,” she said.
Temple splash pads open the first weekend in May, and that would fall on May 4 for 2024. The closing date for the splash pads will most likely be in October.
“For Temple’s outdoor pools (Clark Pool and Walker Pool), it looks like they are expected to open the first weekend in June and close in August,” Price said. “Lions Junction Water Park is also expected to open the first weekend in June as well”
Belton has two splash pads open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. They are located at Harris Community Park, 312 N Alexander, and South Wall Tiger Park, 1895 S Wall.
Morgan’s Point Resort has a pool at 60 Morgan’s Point Road on the shores of Lake Belton. The pool area also is home to a large playground and picnic area. Morgan’s Point Resort also is home to an official State Paddling Trail for kayaking, canoeing and paddle-board fun.
Lydia Davis fills pails with water as children run and play in the water to cool off at Jaycee Splash Pad in Temple last August. Nan Dickson/Special to the Telegram.
THE TEMPLE MEDICAL
By DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
TMED is home to Temple College, 3 hospitals and new growth
Temple’s southern end is a vibrant, bustling area with new schools and new housing developments, plus an existing neighborhood — the Temple Medical & Education District — that includes some of the city’s giants of education and the medical industry.
“TMED is a very large district,” Assistant City Manager Erin Smith said. “And it includes some of the city’s top employers. Baylor Scott & White Medical Center, the VA, Blackland Research, Temple College, Temple Mall and McLane’s Children’s Medical Center are all in this massive district.”
In 2023, the district also became home to a four-year medical college — Baylor College of Medicine.
Because TMED is so large, the plan — developed by KPA Engineering and Covey Landscape Architects — breaks the neighborhood into five sections: Baylor Scott & White Campus, College Place, Tarrant Park, TMED South and South 31st.
“TMED has complexity not found in the other neighborhood planning districts,” Smith said. “So, we subdivided the district to better define each section’s role.”
Here are the highlights in each subdistrict from the 99page TMED neighborhood plan, and we will start with a biggie:
South 31st Street. This area includes McLane Children’s hospital, H-E-B, Lowes and Temple Mall.
The recommended TMED plan calls for a complete redesign of the Temple Mall area. Dillards and Extreme Jump own their buildings inside the mall, but developers recommend leveling the rest of the indoor retail center and building a Domain-style outdoor shopping and activity center.
“This would create a mixed use area with retail shops, restaurants, a hotel and multifamily residences,” Smith said.
Consultants say a parking garage at the site would reduce the need for large surface parking lots.
Oak Creek Trail would be constructed from Loop 363 through the McLane Children’s Medical Center area to Oak Creek Park, affectionately known locally as Pig Park because of three bronze pig statues.
“The plan calls for picnic tables and shelters along the trail and creek, and safe pedestrian crossings across Cottonwood Lane,” Smith said.
Nursing students Monika Allen, left, and Raquel Gonzalez, right, learn about steps to give patients meds at bedside in the Temple College simulation lab while Nancy Eaton, center, coordinator for the lab, looks on. Nanci Kelley/Special to the Telegram
Pearl Patel, left, and Nina Ingle get a lesson in medical instruments from Corey Mikes, operating room nurse manager, during Health Sciences Camp at Baylor Scott & White McLane Children’s Medical Center in Temple. The hospital held two camp sessions attended by about 15 students from Texas high schools. Courtesy photo.
& EDUCATION DISTRICT
Baylor Scott & White Campus. This subdistrict includes more than just the hospital and clinic. The District Shopping Center, American Legion Post No. 133 and Villas on the Hill Apartments are all included, plus everything in between.
Several years ago, a traffic circle was constructed at the intersection of Avenue U and 13th Street. A monument of a tall Helix monument celebrating the area’s medical and educational roots was erected in 2023.
The subdistrict also would include an Avenue T-to-Jaycee Park trail, new bus stops, and added and improved sidewalks.
Tarrant Park. This subdivision is largely undeveloped and will eventually become a mostly residential neighborhood. It is somewhat cut off from the rest of TMED by railroad tracks, which limits connectivity to the other subdistricts.
Tarrant Park includes industry such as Sunbelt Transformers, senior living centers and Tarrant Lake Park.
The plan calls for creating a Greenway Trail extending from Loop 363 through Tarrant Park to the Ferguson Park neighborhood. Essentially, it would link Temple College to Temple’s east side neighborhoods.
Greenway Trail would follow existing utility easements, and trailhead parking would be just off Loop 363.
additional spaces for commercial development. Improvements to Veterans Memorial Drive (First Street in front of the VA) would include new landscaping and wide multi-use sidewalks.
In addition to the subdistrict features, the plan also calls for adding continuous sidewalks to South 31st Street and adding trees to create a green-space buffer between the sidewalk and street.
TMED South. This is another subdistrict of TMED that has growing development. It is home to Blackland Research Center, Tractor Supply Company and Temple ISD’s newest school.
The subdistrict will soon be home to a mix of residential developments and pockets of commercial development to create a “diverse and vibrant community.”
“The area would include single-family homes, apartments and townhomes,” Smith said.
College Place. This subdistrict is described in the plan as “the heart” of TMED. Temple College, the Summit Recreation Center, the VA, Temple Civic Theatre and a portion of Friar’s Creek Trail are all located here. Most of the existing single-family housing in TMED also are found in this subdistrict.
One of the biggest changes in College Place calls for the extension of Friar’s Creek Drive from Fifth Street to 31st, and it would serve as a connection between Baylor Scott & White and Temple College. The new road also would create
Temple photographer Wes Albanese captured a sunset with an aerial view of the sprawling Baylor Scott & White Medical Center complex in Temple.
The Olin E. Teague Veterans’ Medical Center in Temple. File photo
COMMUNITY
Twister recovery efforts create community bond
Volunteers came from everywhere to help Temple recover from a devastating May 22, 2024, storm that produced twin tornadoes, giant hail and straight-line winds topping 100 miles per hour.
They came from across Texas and across the country, but much of the relief effort involved folks from right here in Bell County. It was neighbor helping neighbor, friends helping friends and complete strangers helping anyone who needed a hand.
The damage was massive, and so was the clean up effort.
“I am immensely proud of the hard work and dedication displayed by our city team over the past few days,” Mayor
Volunteers including Bryan Price, left, and Lana Shields assemble breakfast tacos Friday outdoors in the parking lot at Tarver Elementary to serve to homeowners and workers who are recovering from the destructive tornadoes that ripped through the area Wednesday. Nan Dickson/Special to the Telegram
Tim Davis said in the storm’s wake. “Their efforts have been instrumental in managing the aftermath of Wednesday's storm and restoring normalcy to our community.”
While the mayor deservedly heaped praise on city staff, other local officials commended Temple residents for coming together to rebuild the city’s hard hit areas. Damage was widespread, but homes and businesses on the west side really took it on the chin.
Chamber of Commerce President Whitney Theriot urged local residents to support the lengthy list of nearly 100 businesses that suffered severe damage.
“In the wake of the recent tornadoes, our community is coming together to support those affected by these devastating events under the banner of TempleStrong,” Theriot said.
“The Temple Chamber of Commerce encourages everyone to contribute to the recovery and rebuilding efforts by shopping local, including purchasing gift cards to impacted businesses who may not reopen in the foreseeable future.”
Theriot said local businesses are the backbone of the community, and many folks stepped up to offer assistance and resources to those in need.
“By choosing to shop locally, you not only help sustain our local businesses during this challenging time but also ensure that they can continue to provide aid and support to our friends and neighbors impacted by the tornadoes.”
“Every purchase you make at a local store, restaurant, or
RESILIENCY
by DAVID STONE | Special to the Telegram
service provider helps stimulate our local economy and provides the resources needed for ongoing relief efforts,” Theriot added. “Your support can make a significant difference in helping our community recover and thrive again.”
“Let’s unite in our efforts to rebuild stronger together. Support tornado relief by shopping local and showing your love for our community. Together, we embody the spirit of TempleStrong.”
Temple City Manager Brynn Myers agreed with Theriot’s comments.
“I’m really proud of the way city departments and the community have responded and worked together to help friends, neighbors and complete strangers,” Myers said.
“We had significant losses to homes, infrastructure and businesses,” she added. “The resilience and the spirit of the residents who are willing to do whatever is needed make you proud to be in Temple.”
This drone photo shows damages to buildings in the 7400th block of West Adams Avenue from a tornado that hit Temple on Wednesday evening. Courtesy Earl Nottingham
Lisa Taggart, left, Tom Hassell and Mike Lee help clear debris this week in Temple from a storm that brought two tornadoes and straight-line winds. All are participants in the Eight Days of Hope relief effort, a nonprofit Christian ministry that brought people from all around the United States to help Temple residents recover. Courtesy of Grayce Miller
THE #1 LOCAL SOURCE FOR NEWS AND INFORMATION
Agreat community deserves a great local news source. For over a century, the Temple Daily Telegram has been a staple in the lives of residents in Temple and Bell County, Texas.
Founded in 1907, the Temple Daily Telegram has a rich history of serving the people of Temple and the surrounding areas. “We feel strongly that as a locally owned newspaper we are in a position to better serve our communities and take an active role in supporting projects and programs that make Central Texas a great place to live”, said Sue Mayborn the Telegram’s Editor and Publisher.
The Temple Telegram is the leading source for local news and information, publishing over 200,000 articles in print and online since 2001. To make sure that you never miss out on this news and information, the Telegram is available in print, on tdtnews.com, on our custom made mobile app and in daily email newsletters.
The Telegram has often been recognized for its commitment to professional journalism. Just recently the Telegram received accolades for the best breaking news story in Texas for its coverage of the 2022 tornadoes in Bell County.
The Telegram’s website, tdtnews.com, has also been widely recognized, being named the best online newspaper in Texas for two consecutive years. The tdtnews. com website and its companion news app is growing in popularity. Readers view more than 9 million pages annually.
the most accurate source of original news reporting as compared to all other media options.
“We have a strong commitment to the communities we serve,” said Sue Mayborn, the Telegram’s Editor and Publisher. “We work daily to bring you the news that is important to your daily lives. It is our job to present the information to you fairly and accurately.”
Local officials and civic leaders appreciate the role the newspaper plays as it strives to cover the news in Temple, Belton and the surrounding area with a comprehensive report in print and online. More often than not, the Telegram is the only news media present for city council meetings, school board meetings, Temple College trustee meetings, county commissioners meetings and other events.
The Telegram has expanded regional coverage through FME News Service –a joint initiative with the Killeen Daily Herald. Combined, the two newspapers have the region’s largest news gathering operation.
The newspaper industry is facing many challenges. Nationwide, over 130 newspapers ceased operations last year. Even more of them reduced the days per week in which they publish a printed newspaper. As a locally owned entity, Mayborn Enterprises has withstood these challenges and is one of fewer than 10 newspapers in Texas to still produce a printed newspaper 7 days a week.
Accuracy in reporting is a longstanding commitment of the Temple Daily Telegram. Local newspapers are considered
Sports content is another strong element of the value that the Telegram provides. It’s no secret that high school and college football are very popular in Central Texas. The Telegram Sports Department writes stories every week on up to 18 local high schools. Telegram writers are also at every game, home and away, of the National Champion UMHB Crusaders football team… the only local media outlet with this depth of coverage.
The newspapers also collaborate to publish Tex Appeal Magazine, a guide to life and style in Central Texas. This glossy, full color magazine contains 100% locally written content that focuses on culture, entertainment, dining and the arts. Tex Appeal Magazine is published 6 times a year. It’s available inside the print edition of the Temple Telegram, the Killeen Daily Herald and at no charge at 200 locations in the county.
Tex Appeal Magazine is just one of the special publications that subscribers receive inside their copy of the newspaper. The Community Guide you are reading is just one example. Community Guide is a “how-to” manual for living in and loving Bell County.
Each fall our Readers’ Choice contest lets readers select their favorite restaurant, retail shopping, orthodontist and more. The Family Owned Business edition pays tribute to the locally owned and operated companies that make living in Bell County so special.
The Temple Daily Telegram also owns and operates centraltexastickets.com, a website that gives you the ability to purchase tickets 24/7 to local events such as plays, dinners, festivals, concerts and fundraisers. For local event organizers Central Texas Tickets simplifies the process of selling tickets while letting their organization retain 100% of the ticket price.
The Temple Daily Telegram is a politically independent newspaper, placing the public welfare above the interest of any party. Truth and decency are its guiding principles and its daily determination is to print the news without fear or favor.
HONORING OUR HEROES
BY DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
A salute to the Temple area’s first responders, active duty and retired military personnel, and front-line medical workers is sponsored by the Temple Chamber of Commerce and held every fall.
The celebration was modified but survived the COVID years, and returned to its full glory for 2022 and 2023.
Rod Henry, former president of the Temple Chamber of Commerce who retired in December 2023, said the appreciation event has continued because “it is the right thing to do.”
The celebration was started in 1985 by former Temple Daily Telegram owner and Publisher Frank Mayborn to honor military members with a special luncheon. The event has evolved several times over the years, and has been expanded to honor the Temple area’s medical community, police and firefighters.
“Fort Hood (now Cavazos) happened
in Central Texas because of the leadership of people like Frank Mayborn,” Henry said. “The initial Camp Hood was established in Temple while the site in western Bell County was being prepared. Our economy remains linked to Fort Hood (Cavazos) in many ways. Most of the Greater Temple community has some connection to the fort or the armed forces.”
The event started as a salute to Fort Hood soldiers and the 36th Sustainment Brigade of the Texas Army National Guard, but it soon grew to include veterans of World War II, Korea and the Vietnam conflict. Veterans of wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have also been included.
Since 2016, the Temple Chamber of Commerce has recognized more than 500 veterans who served during the Vietnam era. The typical banquet luncheon at the Mayborn Civic & Convention Center includes the
presentation of colors, a patriotic salute, a message from a military or military-related leader, the presentation of war-commemoration pins and music by local high schools and JROTC units.
From 2016 to 2019, a police and fire department escort from the William R. Courtney State Veterans Home to the banquet was organized. That tradition was rekindled in 2023.
During 2020 and 2021, when the gathering of crowds was discouraged because of COVID concerns, drivethrough versions of the event were held. The 2021 luncheon was held at Central Fire Station and a constant stream of cars and trucks were served hamburger box meals.
“Through this appreciation event, our community is able to honor the past, salute the present and encourage the future,” Henry said.
The event returned to the Mayborn Center in 2022.
Jefferson Elementary School students waved U.S. flags as veterans and first responders passed by the campus on North Third Street on their way to the Frank W. Mayborn Civic and Convention Center. Courtesy photo / Temple ISD
Presentation of colors by members of the Ft. Cavazos Color Guard during the City of Temple Veterans Day ceremony at the Temple Railroad Museum on Thursday November 9, 2023.
Nan Dickson / Special to the Telegram
...Honor the past, salute the present and encourage the future.
Residents of the William R. Courtney state veterans home were among the honored guests at the Temple Chamber of Commerce's 39th annual Military and First Responder Salute to Service luncheon at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic Center on Oct. 24, 2023.
Jerry Prickett / Telegram Staff
CENTRAL TEXAS AIRFEST
Draughon-Miller Central Texas Regional Airport
BY DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
Anew $7 million terminal at Draughon-Miller Central Texas Regional Airport opened in fall 2023, providing staff and guests with 6,000-square-feet of space.
“We’re getting really excited,” Airport Director Sean Parker said. “The new terminal is more than double the size of the current facility.”
About half of the terminal will be used as offices, and the other half will be for passengers and pilots.”
While the airport does not offer
commercial airline service, corporate business is booming as existing industries are expanding and new ones are relocating to the Temple area.
“We have a lot of business executives flying in to meet with the Temple Economic Development Corporations or to tend to business at existing companies,” Parker said. “We outgrew our terminal, and we needed to present a nice professional atmosphere to corporate executives.”
“In many cases, we are the front door-
step to the Temple industrial community,” he said. “We have customer service agents to help us exceed expectations. We are gearing up for the future.”
The new airport terminal includes a large conference room equipped with technology for speakers and presentations, an expanded passenger lounge, a small food area and small rooms where pilots can check weather, fix a bite to eat, take a shower and rest their eyes while they wait for executives to return for the flight home.
Left: A couple seek shade under the protection of an umbrella as they watch the Red Knight, a World War II era fighter jet during the airshow. Right: A trio of airplanes with Poet on the sides perform aerial stunts during Media Day for the airshow at Draughton Airport on Friday May 17, 2024. Nan Dickson/Special to the Telegram.
Cintal (left) uses force to make sure the parachute of Stuart Watkins, Col. US Army Vietnam is fastened before the simulation of the D Day parachute drop during the airshow at Temple Draughon Miller airport on Saturday, May 18, 2024. Three skydivers with flags jumped out of the C-47 World War II era plane and approximately 16 static paratroopers jumped, Cintal and Watkins were part of the paratrooper group.
Nan Dickson/Special to the Telegram.
Darren
TEMPLE Community CLINIC
By DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
Temple Community Clinic opened new location in early 2024
The Temple Community Clinic opened its new 15,000-squarefoot facility at the corner of South 31st and Avenue J in January, and the clinic is being flooded with new clients.
Jerry Haisler, president of the clinic board, said the new clinic is about three times larger and more accessible than the previous Temple Community Clinic on Curtis B Elliott Drive.
“The new clinic is more convenient for our clients and our providers,” Haisler said. “We are seeing an increase of about 50 percent more clients. People are needing more health care, and it’s getting more and more expensive.”
According to Clinic Executive Director
Sherri Woytek, the new clinic features seven exam rooms and two procedure rooms.
“It provides 3,500-square-feet of community education space for health and wellness events,” she said. “The fact is, we were out of room in the existing clinic.”
Woytek said the education space will be home to the Living Well in Bell lecture series that has bounced from venue to venue in the past few years. It will also provide space to teach diabetes education and management programs.
“We don’t want to be a band-aid clinic — we want to educate our patients and teach them to be healthy for life,” she said. “We now have a kitchen
where we can conduct diabetes cooking classes.”
Before the eastside clinic closed in midDecember, 1,571 patients were treated during 4,517 visits during 2023. During that time, the clinic distributed 6,859 prescription medications valued at more than $3.4 million.
“Some diabetic medications such as Ozempic cost about $13,000 a year,” she said. “There’s no way most patients could afford that. If we don’t help, they will go without their medication. We put medicine in the hands of patients who might not can otherwise afford it.”
Woytek said the total community benefit in 2023 was $8.45 million, primarily through reduced visits to emergency rooms and reduced hospitalizations.
Woytek said doctors, nurses, technicians and medical students volunteered 5,964 hours last year seeing and treating the clinic’s patients. Many of the volunteers are doctors, nurses, technicians, medical assistants and medical students.
Temple Community Clinic services include primary care, cardiology, dental, dermatology, gastroenterology, gynecology, mental health, optometry, podiatry and social work. All services are provided in-clinic, with the exception of dental work.
“The new building is a mechanism to serve our patients better,” Haisler said. “The old building served our community for 30 years, and the new facility sets the standard for the next 30 years. It’s all about patents having access to excellent health care.”
A sparkling exam room is ready for patients at the new Temple Community Clinic. Courtesy photo.
TE MP LE , TE XA S THE UL TIMA TE GUIDE TO
By Te resa Anderson
TE MP LE , TE XA S
Experience the vibrance of Temple, Texas – where adventure meets hospitality. Nestled in the heart of Central Texas along the I-35 corridor, Temple offers a range of unique attractions, a welcoming community, culinary delights, and one-of-a-kind local adventures. From exploring the historic downtown area to visiting the Temple Railroad and Heritage Museum, visitors of enjoy in our destination.
Food lovers will appreciate the culinary delights, with a diverse range of restaurants serving everything from classic Texas BBQ to Indian and Asian cuisines. There is no shortage of delicious eats.
Temple isn’t just about attractions and food—it’s about community. Feel at home among our warm and welcoming locals, whether you’re here for a road trip or seeking a new place to call home.
BR EW ER IE S
Temple, Texas is a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts. The city is home to several incredible
You can indulge in Czech lagers, pale ales, sparkling ciders, and crisp hops, and savor the unique taste of local brews.
Bold Republic Brewing, located in West Temple, offers an impressive selection of brews in an inviting
atmosphere. Tanglefoot Brewing takes pride in its settlers. Meanwhile, Bird Creek Brewing in Downtown Temple is one of the area’s most notable businesses, offering a rotating selection of brews, live music, and entertainment. With so many options to choose from, buds.
WINE RI ES
Discover the beauty of a sunlit stroll through a local vineyard. Sample decadent wines of all varieties and satisfy your senses with the aromatic smell of aged wine.
Temple, Texas, can offer. 3 Texans Winery, a womenowned local business, features a stunning vineyard and patio seating where guests can settle in and enjoy live music and events. The peaceful atmosphere and the perfect blend of entertainment and wine ensure an unforgettable experience.
For a unique taste, Walker Honey Farm, just a short drive away, specializes in honey wines. These sweet and decadent wines are crafted from locally produced honey and bees.
Whether you prefer mead, dry white wine, or divine red, destination. Experience the essence of a Central Texas offers.
3 TEXANS WINERY
LAKE BELTON
SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
CUL IN AR Y DE LI GHTS
every bite tells a story. Temple boasts an extensive culinary scene that offers a variety of dishes to satisfy your taste buds. Indulge in an elegant dining experience at Pignetti’s, an Italian restaurant that prides itself on its sophisticated wine cellar and culinary excellence.
setting of Cheeves Bros. Steakhouse. In addition to the popular Italian and hearty steakhouses, you can classics. Our local chefs bring a blend of tastes and skills that will leave you wanting more. In Temple, Texas, you friends, and inviting restaurants that cater to groups of all sizes. Don’t forget to save room for dessert as you
AT TR AC TIONS
Temple, Texas, provides many opportunities for adventure, especially with its outdoor recreation and natural landscapes. One of the most popular attractions is Lake Belton, where visitors can spend a day boating or lounging on the shore. The calm waters of Lake Belton offer the perfect retreat to enjoy the serenity of the outdoors.
The destination is also home to over sixty-six parks to explore, including the scenic beauty of Miller Springs and the hidden waterfall of Chalk Ridge Falls. Central
be discovered. If you need a break from the Texas heat, there are many great indoor attractions., such as adventure parks, batting cages, arcade games, shopping, and a favorite tourist attraction - Buc-ee’s.
DO WNT OW N
Downtown Temple is a vibrant and dynamic district of Temple, Texas that is constantly evolving. Each new business that opens its doors contributes to the growth and development of the area. Downtown Temple offers a variety of experiences for visitors, including shopping, dining, attractions, museums, and other exciting activities. You can spend an entire day exploring and discovering what downtown Temple is all about.
FIRST FRID AY
Don’t miss out on the excitement downtown Temple
comes alive with the vibrancy and enthusiasm of locals who head downtown for a delicious meal, live entertainment, and to support small businesses. You won’t want to miss the must-see happenings on the First Fridays of downtown Temple.
THAI CAFE
AL L ABO AR D
Temple, Texas, is home to an operating Amtrak station, allowing visitors to come from all over to experience what Temple has to offer. Enjoy a train ride to and from Temple. Conveniently located in downtown Temple, in the Santa Fe Depot, the Amtrak station makes it easy and accessible for visitors and locals to travel back and forth to destinations and stops along the way. From Temple, the journey begins here.
FOODIE FINDS
Feast your eyes – and your taste buds – on the downtown Temple. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary scene of downtown Temple, which offers a diverse range of cuisines and culinary experiences. With each meal, you can explore something new
cuisine to the bold spices of Latin dishes and the comforting familiarity of American favorites. Indulge in a refreshing boba tea or sample authentic Mexican fare, all while enjoying the unique ambiance of downtown Temple. With so many local businesses to choose from, each offering its own unique twist on
AR TS AND CULTU RE
Temple, Texas is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. Many local artists and creatives call this place
visiting art galleries, studios, museums, and shops that are in the downtown district. There are many exciting things to do in Temple. You can take a break and release some steam at The Wreck Center. Or you can indulge in candle-making at the Wick & Burn. The Art Dept. is another place to visit and marvel at the art gallery. You can also check out local artists and their work at various events and gatherings.
Downtown Temple offers a unique experience where you can witness the art train program, murals, and art displays throughout the district. The art trains depict the stories of local businesses, Temple’s history, and much
opportunities throughout downtown Temple. The art can be seen on the sides of buildings and inside local shops. Temple, Texas is a place that provides ample opportunities for creatives and visitors who support them.
culture converge in an unforgettable journey. Your next great adventure awaits in Temple!
DOWNTOWN SHOPPING
THE ART DEPT
A MATTER OF Health
BY DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
Here's a look at additional options for medical treatment in the Temple and Belton areas
BODY OF CHRIST MEDICAL & DENTAL CLINICS
The Body of Christ Community Clinic opened its doors in 2010 and has grown significantly during the past 12 years. The organization opened a dental clinic in 2017 to provide basic services such as X-rays, fillings, extractions and teeth cleanings, said Donna Dunn, the clinic’s executive director.
“Last year, we provided more than
3,000 medical and dental services,” she said. “The fundraiser is particularly needed by our dental clinic — providing dental care is expensive.”
“Medical and dental services are provided by volunteer board-certified physicians and dentists, nurse practitioners, dental hygienists and assistants,” Dunn said. “We have 35
medical-licensed volunteers and about 100 others who volunteer regularly.”
The medical clinic provides primary medical care; lab services; treatment for obesity, hypertension and high cholesterol; diabetes care and education; and eye exams. It also provides emotional and spiritual support if requested.
The clinic does not provide maternity care, emergency care, cancer treatment or prescribe pain medication or other controlled substances, she said.
“We provide services to the underserved residents of eastern Bell County — including Salado, Holland, Rogers, Troy, Belton, Temple and other communities in that area,” she said. “Patients must have no medical or dental insurance and must meet specific income guidelines.”
In addition to a golf tournament and its annual Together We Heal banquet, the Body of Christ Community Clinic receives funding from 16 local churches and private donors.
Dr. Fernando de Leon, a longtime volunteer physician at Body of Christ Community Clinic, donates his time as an interpreter. The clinic provided more than 3,000 medical and dental services last year to residents of eastern Bell County who have no insurance and meet specific income guidelines. David Stone/Special to the Telegram
The medical clinic is located at 2210 Holland Road in Belton and the dental clinic is a short distance away at 1508 Oleta Street. The clinic does not accept walk-ins — appointments can be made by calling (254) 939-9500.
The Body of Christ medical clinic is open 8-5 every Tuesday and 6-9 p.m. on Thursday evenings. The dental clinic is open 8-5 Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday; 6-9 p.m. Thursday evening; and 9 to noon once a month on Friday.
JIM HORNSBY FEED MY SHEEP CHILDREN’S FREE CLINIC
A Temple-based mobile clinic that provides free health care for children of all ages holds four wellness clinics every year in Temple, Salado, Harker Heights and Chilton.
The Jim Hornsby Feed My Sheep Children’s Free Clinic was formed in 2015 and named in honor of the founder of Feed My Sheep food kitchen and resource center on Avenue G. Hornsby also served as director of a local food pantry, Churches Touching Lives for Christ.
“We formed with the idea of providing a free health clinic for homeless and uninsured children,” said Dr. Stephen Ponder, medical director for the clinic. “We have a staff of volunteers and a 24-foot former food trailer that we use to haul equipment to our wellness events.”
“We started by having clinics at the Feed My Sheep Resource Center, but we quickly outgrew that,” Ponder said. “Then we started going to churches, schools and community centers every month. Now we are doing four events every year.”
At a 2022 wellness clinic in Harker Heights, the volunteer staff saw more than 100 kids in just three hours.
“We have pediatric specialists and family medicine physicians at the clinics, and we can do vision and hearing tests, dental screenings, offer back-to-school and COVID vaccinations, you name it,” Ponder said. “We even have a physical therapist with us.”
Ponder said students and faculty members of Temple College, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Central Texas A&M and Texas A&M Medical School join volunteer physicians and nurses to conduct the wellness clinics.
“We try to give each child a blessing bag,” Ponder said. “That’s a backpack full of age and gender appropriate toiletries, personal care and grooming items, snacks, toys and pencils.”
While the clinic is intended to serve children, adults are welcome as well.
“We welcome children of all ages,” Ponder said with a smile. “We don’t turn anyone away.”
“Temple
WHY I LOVE TEMPLE
GAYLE SHULL
Director
SEAN PARKER
Airport Director "We
SunRISE Center
Feed My Sheep addiction recovery, mental-health center opens in Temple
By DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO
THE TELEGRAM
Anew day has dawned at Temple’s Feed My Sheep.
The new SunRISE Center, a house about a block north of the Feed My Sheep campus, has been converted into a home for mental health and addiction-recovery services, according to Jeff Stegall, executive director of the Avenue G Faith-based non profit.
“Feed My Sheep is investing heavily in the mental health of our clients this year,” Stegall said. “Many of the people who walk through our doorway suffer from mental health issues, and many self medicate trying to make it better. Mental health and addiction go handin-hand, and we must address these issues.”
“The SunRISE Center is a step in that direction.”
The facility is a collaboration between
Feed My Sheep and three local churches — Vista Community, First Baptist and Temple Bible. The four entities have divided the costs, and other partners have helped make buying the property a reality, Stegall said.
SunRISE Center includes offices and four employees of Central County Services, an organization that provides mental health services. The facility also contains offices for masters-level University of Mary Hardin-Baylor students to provide counseling, occupational therapy, physical therapy and social work services.
“The SunRISE Center includes all things mental health,” said Misty Bevell, director of the new facility and a Feed My Sheep employee for the past year.
“We offer talk therapy, plus faith-based
addiction meetings every night during the week.”
“We offer a different recovery program every evening, including Vista Care, Celebrate Recovery, Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous,” she said. “There are recovery groups in Temple, but nothing in this part of town.”
Ironically, the SunRISE Center, 501 S Third, is located in the former Narcotics Anonymous house.
“During the day, we offer large- and small-group discussions, and we hope to add a lunch-time recovery group as well,” she said.
Stegall said the facility is convenient for those who are already clients of Feed My Sheep.
“The clients are right here,” he said. “Everything is in easy walking distance. The come to Feed My Sheep for a meal, and we have a place where they can shower and wash their clothes. Now they can get mental-health help at our SunRISE Center.”
According to Bevell and Stegall, SunRISE Center has the potential to serve up to 125 people per day, including 40 to 50 people in the evening recovery groups.
“We need more volunteers,” he said. “Everything at Feed My Sheep is volunteer based. The need for the SunRISE Center is great, and the facility is nice. It will be as successful as our community wants it to be — we have to have the support of volunteers. This has to be our No. 1 focus or we are
Todd B. Johnson eats a warm bowl of breakfast at Feed My Sheep on January 13, 2024. Nan Dickson/Special to the Telegram
just spinning our wheels. The SunRISE Center is the route to changing someone’s life.”
“The facility has first-class amenities fused with cognitive behavior therapy and talk-therapy treatment offered by licensed volunteer counselors and therapists,” he said. “The inside space is a calming environment — it will be a place where we can say: ‘You are safe, right now and right here.’”
“There are group therapy classes as well,” Bevell added. “We have three distinct group therapy options: support groups for families with mental-health challenges; groups for individuals who have experienced abuse, PTSD,
domestic violence or sexual trauma; and groups for those who experience mental-health challenges.”
“Feed My Sheep’s SunRISE Center works to address the mental and emotional health needs of the homeless and low-income populations of central Temple,” she said.
In 2022, Feed My Sheep conducted a client survey to determine the need for a mental-health facility, Stegall said. Of those polled, 59.4 percent said they had been diagnosed with a mentalhealth condition by a professional.
Of those who said they had been diagnosed, 67 percent said their challenges include anxiety and
depression, and nearly half said they are addicted to alcohol or drugs.
“Most mental-health calls to Temple Police are in the area around Feed My Sheep,” Stegall said. “Our clients are right here, so we wanted our mentalhealth and addiction recovery center to be here as well. It’s all accessible by foot.”
To volunteer time or services to Feed My Sheep or the SunRISE Center, call Stegall or Bevell at (254) 239-9863.
“We would love for you to be part of this ambitious undertaking,” Stegall said. “We pray that lives will be truly changed for good at the SunRISE Center.”
AMY'S HOUSE IN DEMAND
Temple’s transplant hospitality center has hosted more than 1,000 guests since opening
By DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
Amy’s House, a Temple hospitality facility for transplant recipients, donors and their families, hosted a massive milestone last year: The facility hosted its 1,000th guest since opening Jan. 4, 2021.
“That’s quite a feat considering that we were in a pandemic during most of the time we’ve been open,” said Phyllis Renfrow, executive director of the facility.
The large red-brick house on South 15th Street just east of TMED Circle was named in honor of Amy Firth, a former Copperas Cove cheerleader and educator of autistic children who died in 2012 from a brain hemorrhage.
“Amy lived life to the fullest, and her generosity has saved or improved the lives of many fellow Texans,” said Margaret Henderson, Amy’s mother and a member of the local Transplant Recipient International Organization (TRIO) and Amy’s House boards.
After Amy passed, her organs and tissues were donated to at least 70 other people.
money, supplies and services, and in January 2021, Amy’s House opened on city-donated land at 2114 South 15th, just a few blocks east of the hospital.
“Our mission was to design a facility to help transplant patients and their families,” Margaret said. “Some of the board members approached us and said they would like to name the house in Amy’s honor.”
area equipped with a garden, patio furniture and a grill.
“Sanitation is a big thing here,” John said. “Organ transplant recipients are susceptible to infection so we are constantly sanitizing the facility. We also have electronic sanitizers in the air conditioning system so the air is sanitized as it circulates.”
“After Amy died, her parents — John and Margaret Henderson — started Amy’s House through the local chapter of TRIO,” Renfrow said.
“TRIO was established in 2012, and the TRIO Trailer was parked at Baylor Scott & White’s RV park in 2014,” John Henderson said. “It was small and only served one family at a time, and it’s not uncommon for a family to need a place for eight days or more.”
At the urging of BSW officials, the Hendersons began raising money for a larger facility. They received donations of
Renfrow said Amy’s House has rooms for eight families, and each room sleeps three people. The rooms are also equipped with a large recliner.
“We have a large community space, a large dining area, a conference room, a laundry facility and a kitchen that has two of everything,” she said. “The laundry room has three washers and three dryers, and the washers are prefilled with detergent. Guests just put their clothes in and push a button.”
Amy’s House also has a large outdoor sitting
Families are not required to pay to stay at Amy’s House, but donations are encouraged.
“We don’t turn anyone away who can’t afford to make a contribution,” Margaret said. “We have guests from all over the state and from other places. We’ve had patients come from the Rio Grande Valley, West Texas, Oklahoma — all over. Most of the local transplant patients just go home, but sometimes that’s not an option if there are kids or animals living at their residence.. We are here as an option.”
Most of Amy’s House guests live one to four hours from Temple.
“They can stay here while they are being evaluated prior to the transplant,” John said. “The evaluation can involve several days of lab work and studies. It’s a lot easier on the patient to stay close to the hospital.”
“Doctor’s want the patient to be nearby for a few days after they are released from the hospital in case of infection or another problem,” he said. “The stay at Amy’s House after the transplant can be several days.”
For additional information, call (254) 5982378 or email exdir@amyshouse-temple. org.
Amy’s House, a hospitality facility for transplant patients, donors and their families, is located at 2114 S. 15th Street, just east of TMED Circle between Baylor Scott & White Medical Center and Temple College. David Stone
• Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)
• Immunizations
• Provider Referrals
• Travel Consultations for Needed Vaccinations
Arbor of Hope Plan ‘MOVING FORWARD’
BY DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
Aplan to create a transformational community that will eventually serve 300 people experiencing homelessness is moving forward and Phase 1 of the project could be operational by 2026.
“The project is definitely moving forward — there are a lot of moving parts we are trying to align,” said Nancy Glover, Temple’s director of Housing & Community Development. “Right now, we are working on a structure for a Temple nonprofit to run the Arbor of Hope East campus, which is located at 4056 Little Flock Road.”
“We are learning as we go, but we want to make sure all of our social service agencies are represented,” she said.
“Our non-profit structure proposal will be presented to City Council early next year, then we will apply for grant funding,” Glover said. “City Council approved $12.4 million for Phase 1 of the project, and part of that total allocation will be used for infrastructure improvements to get utilities to the site.
“Federal funding will be involved, and we are looking at additional funding sources,” she said. “But a lot of these grants require us to form a non-profit first.”
According to Glover, Phase 1 will take about two years to build, and it will include a main shelter that will house 100 people. Transitional housing will accommodate another 50. Arbor of Hope will be a three phase project: The first phase will provide services for 150 people, and second and third phases will double that number.
There will be residential requirements for program services — program participants must be residents of Temple for at least 24 months to be eligible. If they have been in town less than two years, Arbor of Hope will help them connect with resources in
their home community.
Once Arbor of Hope is open, Glover said the city likely will begin enforcing regulations regarding public camping inside the city limits.
“Right now, there are not enough shelter beds in Temple to accommodate those sleeping under bridges and in encampments,” she said. “Police are being lenient. It will be a process encouraging people to go to the Arbor campus.”
“Arbor of Hope is not a prison sentence,” Glover said. “It’s going to be a beautiful place to live and receive services.”
TEMPLE & BELTON VENUES
HOME FOR CONCERTS, EVENTS
The Temple area is home to a growing number of venues for concerts, plays, comedy and other cultural events, and a lost theater that has been shuttered for decades is being renovated and will reopen in 2023.
The Arcadia Theatre will not return as a cinema, but instead will host Battle of the Band-style concerts, performances by local and touring acts, comedy shows and more. These Temple-area venues greatly enhance the
quality of life in Central Texas and allow residents to experience artistic performances, entertainment and cultural activities without having to travel to larger cities to the north, south and east.
With the pandemic years are largely in the rearview mirror, according to health experts, allowing local, national and international artists to once again perform in the Temple area. Dozens of Temple, Belton and Salado businesses frequently offer live music and comedy shows.
AZALEE MARSHALL CULTURAL ACTIVITIES CENTER 3011 N 3rd, Temple. (254) 773-9926. cacArts.org.
CADENCE BANK CENTER
301 W Loop 121, Belton. (254) 933-5353. Bellcountyexpo.com
FRANK W. MAYBORN CIVIC & CONVENTION CENTER
3303 N 3rd, Temple. (254) 298-5720
Hugo Payan, a vendor with Gallery Panda, that has art on acrylic seems to blend in and become part of the the art he is selling as he looked for a cable in his bag during the Anime Sunika Convention at the Cadence Bank Center in Belton on Saturday February 17, 2024.
Nan Dickson/Special to the Telegram
MARY ALICE MARSHALL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
2487 S 5th, Temple College. Templejc.edu
TEMPLE CIVIC THEATRE
2413 S 11th, Temple. (254) 778-4751. Templecivictheatre.com
SUE & FRANK MAYBORN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
810 N Main, UMHB, Belton. (254) 295-5999
TABLEROCK
AMPHITHEATER, TABLEROCK FESTIVAL
409 Royal, Salado. (254) 947-9205 or Tablerock.org
(Front left to right) Sidney Lowell as Olive Ostrovsky, Isabelle Smith as Logainne Schwartzandgrubenierre, Brian Joyce as William Barfee and (back row) Herbert Clardy as Chip Tolentino a Boy Scout sit on bleachers waiting their turn during the spelling bee, as they participate in the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee at the Temple Civic Theater dress rehearsal.
Nan Dickson/Special to the Telegram
Departure ATX kicks off the city of Temple's annual Hot Summer Sounds concert series with a performance at Miller Park in Temple in June 2024.
Courtesy photo
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Central Texas Orchestral Society of the Cultural Activities Center
A “Classically Texas” Concert Season
Arts & Culture Master Plan CITY BEGINS PROCESS FOR CREATING
BY DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
Temple is in the process of creating an Arts & Culture Master Plan that will serve as a 10-year strategic guide for defining the city’s role in supporting the local arts community.
“We think we have a strong arts and culture community here in Temple, and we want to build upon that,” Temple Assistant City Manager Erin Smith said.
“We are in the early stages — we released a request for proposals for a plan recommendation, and the deadline for submitting a proposal was last week,” Smith said. “City staff will now evaluate and rank the proposals, then we will take our recommendation to Council for approval.”
“We would like for the master plan to provide us with a vision for the future,” Smith added. “It is important to have public engagement when developing the recommendations. Community surveys, focus group meetings, a steering committee consisting of key arts and culture stakeholders will all be part of the process.”
“One thing we do need is to develop an inventory of our arts and culture resources. We need to map galleries, public art, museums, venues, everywhere arts and culture exist. We want to look at the need for additional art programs and educational outreach plans.”
According to Smith, public art would include the many statues at city parks and the art trains downtown.
“The recommendations need to include funding possibilities through grant programs,” Smith added. “We would like to see recommendations for creating an arts district in Temple.”
“We don’t currently have an Arts & Culture Master Plan,” she said. “This is a great opportunity to develop a plan for the future.”
In past studies and consultant recommendations — including a Placemaking Strategy two years ago — recommended the construction of an arena venue that could host mid-sized concerts and minor league sporting events such as basketball and hockey.
“The consultants may look at something like that,” Smith said. “We are providing them with those previous recommendations and studies.”
Smith said the Arts & Culture Master Plan would serve as an overarching document that would provide the city with goals and action items.
“It will provide the recommendations, then we will decide what we want to do.”
Stephanie Chambers explains the process of oil and cold wax on paper in her Wilderness of Alaska Landscape Plein Air paintings to Trish Alger during an opening of her exhibit Stephanie Chambers and Family. Chambers' exhibit consisted of 7 artists and 5 generations at the CAC on Friday August 4, 2023.
Nan Dickson/Special to the Telegram.
Local museums & Art Galleries
Honorable Mention for her pencil drawing Pollution.
CZECH HERITAGE MUSEUM
Located at 119 W. French in Temple, this museum chronicles the history and culture of Czechs in Bell County. The museum displays artifacts and holds programs that share the rich influence of Czech culture. Call (254) 899-2935 or visit www.czechheritagemuseum.org.
BELL COUNTY MUSEUM
Located at 201 N. Main in Belton, this museum was established in 1991 in a former Carnegie Library that was built in 1905. The museum owns more than 12,000 items related to the history of Bell County and the region. The facility hosts programs and exhibits for residents of all ages. Call (254) 933-5243 or visit www.bellcountymuseum.org.
TEMPLE RAILROAD AND HERITAGE MUSEUM
This museum is housed in the historic Santa Fe Depot at 315 W. Ave. B in Downtown Temple. The museum opened in 1973 and features permanent and temporary exhibits inside and out. Many of the exhibits reflect the city’s railroad and medical histories. Call (254) 298-5172 or visit www.templerrhm.org.
SALADO MUSEUM AND COLLEGE PARK
Located at 423 S. Main in Salado, this museum tells the pioneer history and cultural diversity of Central Texas. The museum includes an exhibit room, an auditorium and the Wee Scots Shop, which sell traditional Irish and Scottish apparel, accessories and literature. Call (254) 947-5232 or visit saladomuseum.org.
TEMPLE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
Located at 11 N. Fourth Street in Temple. Admission is $6 per person. Private parties are available. Hours are seasonal so call ahead. Call (254) 500-7617 or visit templechildrensmuseum.org.
CULTURAL ACTIVITIES CENTER
Located at 3011 N. Third Street in Temple, The CAC features four art galleries, a large auditorium, art classes, concerts and more. Call (254) 773-9926 or visit cacarts.org.
TEMPLE COLLEGE
Located at the north end of campus, the Visual Arts Center includes a gallery that features the art of TC students and faculty. Call (254) 298-8573.
Landi Haynes, art teacher at McGregor High School bent to get a closer look at a pencil drawing. She was attending the opening reception for Temple College's annual Central Texas Art Competition and Exhibition with her husband Reagan. Haynes' student (not pictured) Magali Jacob, a sophomore, received
Nan Dickson/Special to the Telegram
UnIncluded Club MOVING TO ROCKIN' R
By DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
Rockin’ R Retreat Center, a popular spot for crafting, sold late last year, but the new owners say the facility will continue hosting events for artists, quilters, knitters and floral designers.
Doree and Travis Collins of Temple finalized the deal with previous owner Rena Cotti in late 2023. Doree, executive director of the UnIncluded Club and Cultivate Academy, said she will eventually make Rockin’ R the center of operations for her organizations.
The Collins’ purchase of Rockin’ R came just two weeks after selling the Knob Creek Urban Farm to the city of Temple, but the UnIncluded Club will continue to use the farm through at least 2024, Doree said.
“The farm was starting to feel like a logistical hardship,” she said. “It’s landlocked by the railroad and the waterway, and the only way in is down a very narrow road. We need to put up an additional building, but there’s just no room.”
“When I saw the sun rise over Rockin’ R farm, I realized this is definitely the
place for us to invite the community — especially young girls and teens. It’s also perfect for developing our youth leaders.”
“Cultivate and the UnIncluded Club will all be located there, but we will keep Cultivate Academy open,” she said. “We are actually about to add a food truck to Cultivate (2603 Trade Place) to sell our microgreens, sunflower microgreen salsas and cream cheeses, hummus and salads.”
Kennadi Manning, left, 16, and Doris Collins, 3, practice finding and pronouncing the names of the countries they have been studying during summer camp at the UnIncluded Club Urban Farm in Temple. The children study a different country each week. In previous weeks they studied Puerto Rico, Mozambique and the Philippines.
Nan Dickson/Special to the Telegram
The Knob Creek operations will move to Rockin’ R land after 2024, and a second building to house Cultivate Academy will be built at that location
“I will still host events at Rockin’ R,” Rena said. “I’m still in the retreat business, just not in the retreat center business.”
To host an event at Rockin’ R, contact Doree at www.rockinrretreats.com.
To attend a retreat hosted by Rena, contact www.renacotti.com.
Doree Collins and Rena Cotti work out the final details of Collins’ purchase of Rockin’ R Retreat Center, a Temple crafting venue that has hosted retreats since 2008. Courtesy photo
Temple & Belton Area
BY DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
Severallocal outdoor markets feature farm-fresh produce, eggs, breads, salsas and about every craft item imaginable. And as warm weather becomes more constant, Central Texans often head to their favorite market.
The popular Temple Small Business Association’s monthly markets and quarterly Food Truck Frenzy will not be held this year. The association has been leasing the City Hall parking lot for their events, but that space will no longer be available because of a plan to expand City Hall.
The former Temple Feed & Supply building along the railroad tracks in downtown Temple will soon become an indoor/outdoor market featuring craft vendors, produce and artisan
opportunities.
The city purchased the building last year, and Temple Feed & Supply has relocated to 21820 SE Dodgen Loop.
“We are working on a management plan to determine who will operate the market and other details,” Temple City Manager Brynn Myers said.
“We have the funding for the design, and construction will be funded this year,” Myers said. “We have $3.5 million in our construction budget for the project.”
Santa Fe Community Market — that’s the working name for the project — likely will be similar to the Buda Mill & Grain Co. renovation in Buda. That project included the renovation of an old grain mill into a vibrant hub for a
BJ Lara with D&M Produce sacks up some produce Saturday as he sells the last of the season cantaloupes, tomatoes and potatoes at the Belton Farmers Market. Lara tells his customers, “See you next year.”
Nan Dickson/Special to the Telegram
farmers market, restaurants and night spots.
The Temple facility could include micro restaurants and food space, but it may not include a full restaurant.
The Santa Fe Community Market will utilize a renovated main building, plus open-air spaces and revamped outbuildings. The market will be along Santa Fe Trail, which links the Santa Fe Depot with The Yard and the MLK Festival Grounds.
“We want to include and embrace the historical elements that are included in the property,” Myers said. “That includes the stone building.”
That stone building housed Al’s Barbecue back in the 1970s, and later became part of the feed and seed store.
“Details are still up in the air, but the project is moving forward,” she said.
Other markets in the area include:
In Temple, a farmers market is located at West Temple Park, 121 Montpark Road. The market is located in a parking lot behind Fire Station No. 7. Hours are 7 a.m. to noon every Tuesday and Thursday through the growing season.
The Water Street Farmers Market in downtown Belton is from 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays, all year long, rain or shine. Eggs, jellies, salsas and decor items are available.
The Downtown Belton Business Alliance hosts Belton Market Days around Courthouse Square in the spring and fall, including the third Saturday in September, October and November.
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WHY I LOVE TEMPLE
DAVID BLACKBURN
Bell County
LOCAL THEATERS
CINEMARK
Located at 4501 S, General Bruce Drive in Temple, this theater features multi-screens and first-run movies, plus a few classics during the year.
GRAND AVENUE THEATER
Located at 2809 Oakmark Drive in Belton, this theater features multi-screens and firstrun movies.
THE BELTONIAN
The downtown Belton theater at 219 E. Central Ave. offers classic films and cartoons on the big screen.
THE LAST DRIVE-IN PICTURE SHOW
The drive-in is located at 2912 S. State Highway 36 in Gatesville, about 30 minutes away from Temple.
CULTURAL ACTIVITIES CENTER
The Central Texas Film Society shows a free classic movie on a Sunday each month. Popcorn is free, and there is a discussion before and after each movie. See the schedule and movie dates at cacarts.org.
Nichole Guajardo
BY DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
Change is coming to the Temple Public Library.
Within the next 10 years, the downtown library will get a huge facelift that will include a large rotunda entrance off Adams Avenue, shorter shelving, improved lighting and a ton of security features.
“The Temple library is 123 years old, and the current building is owned by the Temple Public Library Foundation,” said Natalie Alvara, director of libraries and museums for the city of Temple. “The library looks like an old bank, and we want it to look like a library.”
The renovations are part of the 2022 Library Master Plan and work will be done prior to 2030, she said.
“Right now the library is 72,000 square feet, and it will be slightly larger if you count the rotunda once the renovations are complete. We do some sort of renovation, but this will be more complex. One of the bigger changes will be moving the central elevator to create a better line of sight. We also will have shorter shelving so it’s easier to see folks around the building.”
LIBRARY'S FUTURE Includes renovation & opening three branch locations
we hope to have a brighter and more open-looking space with shorter shelves to see over, especially in the children’s areas,” Alvara added. “We want more glass walls to improve visibility, and more locations and spaces for group collaboration, be it for meeting or studying.”
Alvara said the goal is to make sure the building feels like a place where you can learn and recreate.
The main entrance to the library will shift from the parking lot to an entrance rotunda facing Adams Avenue.
While the main library will be getting a facelift, Temple also has a 10-year plan for opening three branches — In South, East and West Temple.
longer because there is more traffic,” she said. “There are barriers such as I-35 that make it hard to walk or bike to the downtown library.”
“The original plan was to create full branches in South and West Temple, and put a library kiosk on the west side. But, growth in that area is happening and likely will continue to occur, so Council decided to go with a full branch on the westside as well,” she added.
There are no exact dates for the branches to be built, but land has been purchased on far south 31st Street in the Triangle Development, which will include townhomes, retail and the library.
We will have five staff members at each branch, and adjustments be made as community needs dictate,” Alvara said.
“All three branches will be physically different,” Alvara said. “The triangle branch will have about 5,000-square-feet, and while it will offer full services to everyone, children’s programs will be the focus of that location. The demographics show there are a lot of younger residents in that area.”
“We just got new security cameras inside and outside, added coded door locks and updated our alarm system,” Alvara said. “We’re adding a new speaker/public address system, and updating the lighting to LED.”
“Also, the U-shaped hallway on the third floor will become a circular walkway,” she said. “We want to make the library visually appealing — we want it to look more like a library.”
“For the future renovation of this location,
“City and library staff are actively developing plans for expanding services to ensure that barriers such as major highways, traffic, or lack of mobility do not hinder our residents from their educational and recreational goals,” Alvara said.
“We went through a master planning process in 2022-23, and the need for branch locations was evident. We hired a consultant, listened to focus groups and did neighborhood surveys,” she said. “Our goal is to have a public library within 10 minutes of every Temple neighborhood.”
“Travel time to downtown has gotten
“We are hoping to have designs set and a groundbreaking within two are three years at the South 31st site,” she said.
“The westside branch will focus on teen friendly programs, and the eastside library will be generalized with adult, teen and kid friendly programs. Each building will have five staff members, and all will be open five days per week — Tuesday through Saturday.”
“Members will be able to do everything at a branch that you can do downtown,” she said. “We are hoping to have the branches open in 10 years.”
Central Texas' PUBLIC LIBRARIES
BY DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
A Guide to Your Central Texas Libraries
THE TEMPLE
PUBLIC LIBRARY
100 W. Adams Ave, Downtown Temple. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and from 1 to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
LENA ARMSTRONG
PUBLIC LIBRARY
301 E. First Ave, Belton. 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.
THE
SALADO
PUBLIC LIBRARY
1151 N. Main St, Salado. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday.
THE TEINERT MEMORIAL
PUBLIC LIBRARY
337 N. Highway 95, Bartlett. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Saturday. Schedule may change due to volunteer availability.
THE MOODY
COMMUNITY LIBRARY
612 Ave. D, Moody. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.
THE HARKER HEIGHTS PUBLIC LIBRARY
400 Indian Trail, Harker Heights. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
THE LUCY HILL
PATTERSON
MEMORIAL LIBRARY
201 Ackerman St, Rockdale. 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 to 5 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 to 5 p.m. Friday.
THE CAMERON PUBLIC
LIBRARY
304 E. Third St, Cameron. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
THE B.J. HILL LIBRARY
402 W. Travis St, Holland. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
THE JARRELL COMMUNITY LIBRARY
113 Limestone Terrance, Jarrell. 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, from 1 0 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.
MARY RUTH BRIGGS
LIBRARY
City Hall, Morgan's Point Resort.
WILSON VALLEY
Tar tu e Comedy
Oct. 25-27 & Nov. 1-3, 2024
Urinetown Musical
Feb. 20-23, 27-28 & March 1-2, 2025
August: Osage County Drama / Dark Comedy March 2-4 & 9-11, 2025
Hometown Holidays
TCT performers & Community Groups
Dec. 12-15 & 19-22, 2024
Ain’t Misbehavin’ Musical Revue March 13-16 & March 20-23, 2025
The Secret Garden Musical June 19-22 & 26-29, 2025
SPECIAL EVENTS
Beehive
The 60’s Musical
November 21-24, 2024
2024-2025
New Works Festival August 8-10, 2025
YOUTH SEASON
Monster Café Young Adult Musical
October 10-13, 2024
Matilda Youth Musical
July 24-27, 2025
Broadway Babies Theatre Camp for Children 4-7
Nov. 8-9, 2024 & July 29-30, 2025
Broadway Kids Theatre Camp for Children Ages 8-12
March 7-8, 2025
2413 S. 13th St., Temple, TX 76504
254-778-4751 www.TempleCivicTheatre.com
WHY I LOVE TEMPLE
DONNA DUNN Executive director of Body of Christ Community Clinics
“I have lived here for 50 years and the small town Temple has grown a LOT in the last 10 years. Now there are more restaurants and places to go for entertainment. The medical systems here are great. Everyone knows everyone!"
TYLER JERMSTAD
State Farm Insurance
"It's so easy to find community here. There are open arms and hearts everywhere you turn. We are fortunate that we've had great community leaders over the decades and that has formed a very real soul to our city."
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WHY I LOVE TEMPLE
KAYLA STEWART
Temple High School Theatre Director
"My love for Temple started the moment I began student teaching at Temple High School in 2015. This school and community has continually given support to myself and our theatre department. Temple values the fine arts, and has a rich tradition of excellence in our community. I am blessed to have planted my roots here."
JERRY HAISLER
Musician & Member of the Temple Community Clinic Board of Directors
"People in Temple care for each other. They are generous with their time, resources, and talents and simply look for ways to help others…. Cause it’s the right thing to do!"
DON STILES
Director of the Temple Literacy Council
"We came to this area nearly 35 ago. Most of the people I've known over all those years are friendly and fair-minded and that says a lot."
Golf, flying discs, recreation and more!
No matter where you are in Central Texas, quality golf and other fun activities are just a short “drive” away.
BY DAVID STONE | SPECIAL TO THE TELEGRAM
Public golf courses in the area include Sammons Golf Course in Temple, Stonetree Golf Club in Killeen, Mill Creek in Salado and Greenbriar in Moody.
Temple also has Wildflower Country Club, a private course that hosts many charity tournaments every year.
Temple is home to three disc courses, including courses at Lions Park, South Temple Park and Crossroads Park. Belton has a disc course on the former Leon Valley golf course in Heritage Park.
The Sammons Community Center, located adjacent to the Sammons course, has art, computer, dance, and exercise classes, plus many more. Memberships are $5 per year for Temple residents and $8 per
year for non residents. There are free activities, too, including trail walking, dances, ping pong, and day trips around the community.
Athletic fields for softball, soccer, tennis and basketball are located throughout Temple and are available for rent through the Temple Parks & Recreation Department.
Wilson Park Recreation Center, 2205 Curtis B. Elliot Drive, hosts many activities every month for families. These include day camps, art classes and a Fourth of July Fun Fest.
Temple Parks & Recreation provides daily camps for children. Visit templeparks.com to register for Camp Discovery (ages 5-7) or Camp Pathfinder (ages 8-13).
Other family friendly activities in the area include bowling and laser tag at Spare Time Texas, located at 5434 Loop 205. Xtreme Jump Adventure Park in Temple Mall also provides laser tag, a trampoline park and
go-cart rides.
The city of Temple maintains tennis courts at Summit Recreation Center, Crossroads Park, Walker Park and other locations.
at
Park on Thursday December 28, 2023. Approximately 850 trout from Texas Parks and wildlife were released into the creek. The fish were 6 to 8 inches long. Nan Dickson/Special to the Telegram
Holly Nixon, 3 and her dad Kevin were fishing for trout during the city of Belton Parks and Recreation Department free family fishing event
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